NationStates Jolt Archive

INV Reliant cruised leisurely into the harbor. At 330 meters in length and over 80 meters in width and riding on a trimaran hull, the carrier dwarfed most other ships. Despite its size, the carrier rode surprisingly low in the water and appeared to be almost completely flat on the deck, with a superstructure no larger than two-story house.

Reliant was accompanied by four other ships – a trimaran-hulled command cruiser and three small, black catamarans that appeared to just skim the surface.

After the ships had come to a full stop, a small motor launch, flying the flag of the Excalbian Empire and a blue pennant with three yellow, headed towards the docks. VADM Tucker Norland, dressed in a gleaming white dress uniform, stood just behind the helmsman. Next to him stood a man in neat blue suit. Sir Adam Taurins, His Imperial Majesty’s newly appointed to the Empire of the Resurgent Dream, watched the waves roll past the boat and anxiously awaited his official arrival in Tarana.

A tall woman, dressed in a pants suit, two other men in civilian suits and minister in a roman collar filled out the seats in the back of the launch.

Approaching the dock, the boat slowed and cut its engines. Two crewmen stepped up on the deck prepared to tie up the boat.

A golden haired sidhe in a courtly gown waits on the dock to meet them. At her side are two armored trolls, a boggan in a nicely tailored suit in 19th century fashion, and a rabbit pooka, with long bunny ears sticking through holes in broad brimmed hat. The lady steps forward. "Greetings, Ambassador. I am Lady Annabelle ni Liam, assigned to greet you."

Sir Adam bowed at waist. “My lady,” he said smoothly, “thank you for your warm greeting. I am Sir Adam Taurins, His Imperial Majesty’s ambassador to the court of the High Queen Corrina.”

The ambassador stands and gestures to the woman and three men behind him. “These are a few members of my delegation and the Rev. Blaine Haasfeld, who is on actually en route to the Kingdom of Holista to serve as a missionary.” The ambassador gestured with his other hand. “And this is Vice Admiral Tucker Norland, commander of our naval forces in the region. Some of his people have recently been attending to plague victims in Shieldcrest and he has graciously conveyed me and my party to your shores.”

The ambassador looked around, pausing for just half a second on pooka – trolls he had been expecting, but not bunny ears – and stepped out of the launch onto the dock. “We are at your disposal, Lady Annabelle.”

Annabelle grins warmly, moving towards three carriages. "We have a carriage ready for you, m'lord." A footman opens the door for Lady Annabelle and Sir Adam. The rest of the Excalbian delegation gets the second carriage and Annabelle's entourage the third.

Sir Adam stands aside and bows as Lady Annabelle enters the carriage first. He joins her and looks around his surroundings.

"Beautiful craftsmanship," the ambassador says admiring the carriage. "Yours is certainly a fascinating country, my Lady."

The ambassador turns and regards his hostess with a pleasant expression. "I hope you don't think me uncouth, but I couldn't quite identify your companions - interesting people. Are they of your people or, perhaps, a related people?"

Meanwhile, in the second carriage, Dr. Amber Kule sat wide-eyed taking in the people and surroundings. Suddenly, with a muttered curse, she reaced into her pocket and pulled out a handheld. "I should have been recording this all along..."

Annabelle just smiles. "The plump man is a boggan. The two warriors are trolls. The fellow with the ears is a pooka."

"A pooka," the ambassador says almost muttering to himself, "fascinating, fascinating." He smiles again at Lady Annabelle. "My lady, do you know how exotic and interesting your people appear to mine? A pooka, indeed."

The ambassador looks around. "Can you, perhaps, tell me a bit about where we are and our agenda?"

Annabelle nods. "We are moving from the port to your embassy where you will have several hours to settle in. This evening, Her Imperial Majesty will formally receive you."

"Excellent. I look forward to it. Tell me," the ambassador leaned close, "is there any particular attire required for an audience or any... special protocol? Dr. Kule, for instance, is overly fond of pants suits. Does that offend any local customs?"

Annabelle shakes her head. "You should be fine. Just the normal protocols for royalty."

Sir Adam nods. “Excellent, Lady Annabelle. Tell me, will you be our escort to our audience this evening?”

As the sidhe answered, the carriages arrived at the new Excalbian embassy in Tarana. Sir Adam thanked Lady Annabelle profusely for her kindness, then exited the carriage to gather his delegation.

The building was stone and built in a neo-gothic style, not too dissimilar from many of the art nouveau buildings back in Citadel Excalbia. The Imperial flag and the Ambassadorial pennant – a blue cross of Joshua on a golden field – hung on either side of the massive wooden doors.

Sir Adam turned to his administrative officer. “John,” the ambassador said, “please secure transport back to the port and have the ship beginning sending our effects over.”

“Yes, Sir Taurins,” John Allesman answered with a slight bow.

* * *

Over the next few hours, a steady stream of launches ferry crates of equipment and cases of personal goods from Reliant to the harbor. At first, Allesman hires several large, strong creatures – trolls, he guesses – and a number of human drivers to carry goods in horse drawn carts. Eventually, two heavy-duty SUVs are unloaded and join the carts in carrying crates.

Soon, naval construction workers are installing safes, communication equipment and security systems. Personal apartments are assigned and the crewmen begin hanging up paintings and placing statues.

In his office, Sir Adam sits in a comfortable leather chair watching a navy rating hang a large portrait of the Emperor – clad in a blue, fur-trimmed cloak over a sparkling white naval uniform and holding the Sword of Alsgood – in a large golden frame. Ostentatious, intimidating and perfectly imperial, Sir Adam nods with approval at the portrait.

With much of the work finished, the staff begins to file in. John Allesman, looking tired and hot, is the first to take a seat at the meeting table. Michael Hoerst, the trade attaché, is the next to arrive. Still looking fresh, he takes his seat with an easy smile. Dr. Amber Kule drifts into the room, her eyes still riveted to her handheld PC. VADM Norland walks in just behind the young scientist.

Sir Adam walks over and takes his seat at the head of the table. “Thank you for joining us, Admiral Norland.”

“My pleasure, Sir Adam,” the admiral nods pleasantly, having grown genuinely fond of the roundish diplomat, “your military attaché and the rest of your staff should arrive in a few days aboard Sigulda.”

The ambassador nodded, then turned to his staff. “John, you’ve done an excellent job today. And, I know I can count on the rest of you to do as well this evening. I don’t know if this will be a short audience to introduce ourselves and present our credentials or whether it will be full reception. In either case, do your best to learn as much as you can about our hosts and new friends.” Sir Adam looked directly at Dr. Kule. “Doctor, I appreciate your excitement in being named our scientific attaché and, believe me, I understand just how… different this is compared to what we are used to dealing with – pookas indeed! – but, please don’t go around recording everything tonight. Let us ask before we observe. Remember, the people here are our hosts and new friends, not lab subjects.”

“Yes, Sir Taurins,” the young scientist said sheepishly as she brushed a strand of blonde hair out of her eyes.

“Good. Well,” the ambassador looked at his watch, “our escort should be here shortly. Let’s be ready…”

Annabelle smiles radiantly at the question. "I had not previously been assigned to such a position. However, were you to request it, I would be honored. Do you plan on bringing your staff or merely on appearing in person? It would be a simple matter to arrange escorts for the entire party."

When they arrive at the embassy, Annabelle smiles, a footman opening the carriage. "I do hope you find it to your liking, ambassador. It is a rather lovely building. We will send a carriage tommorrow to carry your priest to Holista. Is he going alone or does he have materials to establish one of these charming missions we have heard so much about?"

(OOC: This is a flashback. Please fit it in during the arrival at the embassy...)

Sir Adam flashes a charming smile. "No, my Lady, you would honor me by being my escort this evening." The ambassador gives her a brief but courtly bow. "I will be bringing the three members of my staff that arrived with me. And, I am certain that Vice Admiral Norland will wish to accompany us."

Later, as they arrive at the embassy. The ambassador answers, "Oh, yes. It is quite nice. Very reminiscent of many of our buildings back home in our capital. And a carriage for Rev. Haasfeld would be greatly appreciated. He will be traveling alone to Holista and will seek accomodations there. He will be taking only one somewhat large case with him."

Later that evening, tweo carriages pulled up before the embassy. Lady Annabelle disembarked, along with a trolless dressed in shining steel formal armor, one blond human woman and one brunnette, and a dark-skinned eshu man in Oriental silks. The small party approaches the gates of the embassy, Lady Annabelle speaking. "We are here to pick up the party for this evening."

The trolless stands quietly, a perfectly stoic expression on her blue face. The human women, both rather pretty, giggle nervously, blush, and straighten their complicated courtly gowns. The eshu, the only man in the group, merely grins broadly. "This is so exotic. I've never actually seen a pantsuit before."

An Imperial Marine, in a blue dress uniform with polished black boots, salutes Lady Annabelle. "Yes, Ma'am. Just a moment, please." He walks away from the gate and back through the front doors of the embassy.

A minute or two later, the embassy' carved wooden doors open and Sir Adam and leads his delegation down the steps and through the gate. He nods to each member of the party and bows deeply to Lady Annabelle. "My lady," he says, "it is pleasure to see you again."

The ambassador looks again at the sidhe's party and turns back to Annabelle. "I don't believe I introduced you to my senior staff. This is Dr. Amber Kule, our attaché from the Ministry of Science and Technology."

The young, blonde-haired doctor, dressed in a deep red pants suit with ruffled shirt, steps forward and bows slightly. "My lady."

"And," the ambassador turns to one of the two suited men beside him, "this is John Allesman, our chief of administration."

A tall, middle-aged man with a slight bulge stepped forward and bowed with surprising grace. "My lady, a pleasure." He turns and smiles and nods to each member of the party.

The ambassador nods with satisfaction and turns to the younger of the two men. "And this is Michael Hoerst, our trade attaché."

The young man with a slightly cocky smile bows with a courtly flourish. "A pleasure."

"And," the ambassador concludes, "you, of course, remember Admiral Tucker Norland."

"My lady," the admiral says with a crisp nod and slight bow.

Anabelle nods. "I am to be your escort for the evening, Ambassador. Tasha..." she gestures to the trolless "...will escort Admiral Norland. Diana and Beverly..." she looks towards the two human women "...will escort Mr. Allesman and Mr. Hoerst. Amir..." she looks to the eshu..."shall escort Dr. Kule. That is, if there is no objection?"

Sorry. Family illness keeping things busy. Will post this weekend.

Anabelle nods. "I am to be your escort for the evening, Ambassador. Tasha..." she gestures to the trolless "...will escort Admiral Norland. Diana and Beverly..." she looks towards the two human women "...will escort Mr. Allesman and Mr. Hoerst. Amir..." she looks to the eshu..."shall escort Dr. Kule. That is, if there is no objection?"

“None at all, my Lady,” the Ambassador said with a pleasant smile. So, Sir Adam thought to himself, this will be more of a reception than a simple diplomatic formality.

Dr. Kule cast a curious glance at the dark-skinned man in luxurious Oriental silks. “So,” she said cautiously extending her hand, “Mr. Amir. Are you from around here? Your outfit is, quite beautiful, actually…”

VADM Norland looks up at the armored, blue-skinned trolless. He was quite surprised that she was oddly attractive. “Tasha,” he said with a bow, “I take it from your armor that you are in the military yourself. What branch, if I might ask? Infantry, perhaps? Your armor is quite impressive. I don’t quite recognize the design…”

John Allesman swallows deeply as Diana, a very human and very lovely woman walks up to him. It was a diplomatic function, after all. He was certain his wife wouldn’t object. Too strongly. John bowed with polished diplomatic aplomb. “Madame. How lovely to meet you.”

Michael Hoerst, unlike Allesman, was unmarried and quite ecstatic. The sidhe women were inhumanly beautiful, but the human women here seemed to quite pretty as well. Hoerst smiled in a charming, inviting fashion and nodded. “Beverly, I am Michael. A pleasure to meet you.”

Anabelle extends a hand to Sir Adam palm down. "Very well then, m'lord."

Amir smiles charmingly. "I'm from Farinor originally, my dear doctor. Might I say, I find your outfit every bit as fascinating...and quite becoming."

Tasha extends a large, blue hand to the admiral, also palm down. "I'm a Captain of Infantry, sir. The armor is simply a traditional trollish pattern. It's an honor to meet you."

Beverly extends a soft, white hand to Michael. "The pleasure is all mine, I assure you."

Diana holds a hand out to John, palm down. "I'm sure it will be a lovely evening."

Sir Adam takes Lady Anabelle’s hand and gives it a brief, courtly kiss. “Very good. Shall we be off, then, my Lady?”

Dr. Kule nods enthusiastically as she listens to Amir. “Farinor. Fascinating. I’d love to hear more about your homeland and about how you’ve come to be here in Tarana, Mr. Amir. And,” Amber smiled shyly and blushed, “thank you for the compliment…”

VADM Norland pauses for a moment gazing at the trolless’ large blue hand and trying to remember his lessons in protocol. The admiral catches the ambassador kissing their guide’s hand and quickly duplicates his gesture with Tasha. “Captain,” the admiral smiles, “a pleasure indeed. I would be very curious to hear of your exploits. I suspect they are as interesting as your armor.”

John Allesman, not noticing his ambassador’s gesture, takes Diana’s hand and gives it a slight, gentle shake – something far closer to Excalbian customs than the courtly manners being exhibited by the ambassador and VADM Norland. “I’m sure it will be lovely, Madame.”

Michael Hoerst, needing no example, gracefully takes Beverly’s hand and gently raises it to his lips and gives it a quick kiss. “No, no,” Hoerst smiles, “the pleasure is mine.”

Amir smiles lightly. "Lovely lady are meant to be complimented." He proffers an arm to the doctor. The ladies all slide their arms into their respective gentleman's arm and they head for the carriage. Another carriage pulls up and they guide their escorts between the two. Annabelle and Tasha guide their gentlemen to the first as Diana and Beverly move to the second.

The Excalbian delegation settles into their respective carriages. Sir Adam and VADM Norland give every appearance of being content to trade small talk and tales of battle with their respecitve escorts. Dr. Kule brims with excitement as listens to Amir and anxiously awaits her arrival at the court. John sits rather quietly, being tired from the day's labors, while Michael enthusiastically chats up Beverly.

Amir talks the entire way and it's an hour ride. He describes all six kingdoms: Shieldcrest, Farinor, Wintermore, Fireforge, Holista, and Bilbtoria. He tells of his personal adventures which apparently involve fighting dragons, saving princesses, and finding ancient treasure. He speaks in perfect seriousness and with excellent storytelling skill, telling tales that most would think belonged in fairy tales.

Dr. Kule found herself hanging on Amir’s every word. Kingdoms and dragons and magic and adventure. It was all so… fascinating; yet, she felt fascinating was too mild a word for it.

She would have dismissed Amir’s tales a fantasy, and Amber Kule had never been interested in fantasy. When other little girls had played at Cinderella or a fairy princess, Amber had been reading or playing with toy microscopes or building realistic buildings out of Legos.

However, here in Tarana, Kule had seen magical beings with her own eyes. There was no denying the evidence represented by the sidhe themselves, not to mention the trolls and other creatures. So, Kule couldn’t dismiss Amir’s story. She only wished that she could take out her handheld PC and record it without being rude.

But, somewhere on the way to the palace, Amber realized that she had stopped listening as a scientist but was becoming genuinely intrigued and delighted by Amir’s tales. She found herself, quite unexpectedly, staring at his dark features and luxurious silks. Then, flushing with embarrassment, she realized she was staring with a dippy smile on her face. The realization, to her surprise however, didn’t stop her from smiling and enjoying the tales.

Meanwhile, VADM Norland finds himself easing closer to the troll Captain and becoming rather embarrassingly taken with her.

Amir continues with his stories. "...and I must admit I found myself rather taken with Lady Dana. She was not only a formidable warrior but a very lovely lady, though, I dare say, not half so lovely as yourself. Still, I was sworn to return Countess Alice's stolen pennon and it was quite apparent that Dana was the culprit. Now a countess's pennon, as you may know, is more than just cloth. The pennon is what makes the land itself recognize a count or countess, duke or duchess, as its ruler. Without it, the land withers without a soul or bends to the will of the thief. So, I convinced Lady..." He pauses as the carriage finally comes to a stop. "I believe we are here, my lovely doctor."

Tasha pretends not to notice the admiral's attentions, though she does look over and smile ever so lightly. She steps out first as the carriages arrive. "This is the Imperial Palace, my lords and ladies." The second carriage pulls up shortly behind.

Dr. Kule blushes slightly at Amir's compliment. "Thank you. I mean for saying I was ... er... lovely," Amber says suddenly unsure of herself. "And, uh, I really enjoyed hearing your adventures. Perhaps you could finish telling me later?"

VADM Norland notices that Captain Tasha, he wonders if she has a last name, jumps out first. He silently scolds himself for being a little too obvious in his inexplicable attraction.

Sir Adam, pretending not to have observed how this strange land is affecting his people follows the troll officer out of the carriage and offers his hand to Lady Anabelle.

Amir nods, stepping out of the carriage and offering a hand to Dr. Kule. "Of course, dear lady. It would be my pleasure." He smiles brightly.

Anabelle takes Adam's hand, disembarking gracefully. "Thank you, m'lord. If you'll all come with me, I do believe Her Imperial Majesty is expecting us."

Sir Adam, followed by the rest of the Excalbian delegation fall in line behind Anabelle and follow her into the Imperial Palace.

Diana and Beverly wait a long moment in the carriage, looking after their escorts. As the men continue towards the palace, the women step out, hurrying briefly to catch up. Beverly laughs lightly while Diana now wears a decided frown.

The party passes through the broad halls of the palace, finally coming to the Great Hall. The glittering hall of marble towers four stories over head. Balconies run along the upper levels, hung with the golden falcon of House Gwydion. On a golden throne at the end of the hall, sits the High Queen herself, watching the delegates with a light smile. The escorts all fall to their knees, lowering their eyes to the ground, as they approach the ground.

The High Queen smiles lightly. "Please rise. We do, of course, welcome our guests to our lands. It is always our pleasure to establish friendships with new peoples and lands. We do look forward to working with you during your stay in Tarana."

After following the delegation towards the doors of the palace, Hoesrt realizes his social faux pas and hurries back towards the coaches. He meets Beverly and Diana after they have already exited the carriages. Beverly looks bemused, but Diana looks positively angry. Hoerst bows with courtly flourish. “My dear ladies, please forgive my manners. I can only plead being awestruck by the palace. Hoerst stands and offers his arm to Beverly. “Please forgive me, my lady.” Then, seeing that John remains obliviously lost in his world of budgets and shipping manifests, he offers his other arm to Diana. “My lady, if it does not offend you, please allow me to escort back to my colleague. I am certain that he is quite chagrined.”

Hoerst catches up with John Allesman in one of the palace’s halls. John hears the footsteps and turns to see Hoerst’s smirk. Manners are much more old-fashioned here, John surmises, realizing what has happened.

John bows, awkwardly shifting a small case that he is carrying, and turns to Diana. “I beg your pardon, Madame,” he says sheepishly.

Sir Adam leads the Excalbian delegation into the palace and to the Great Hall. He looks admiringly at the architecture, the details and the opulence of the construction. The Great Hall of Castle Sweyn in Excalbia was dark, brooding, medieval and intimidating. But this hall was truly beautiful and impressive. The ambassador immediately spots the golden throne at the end of the hall and the High Queen seated upon it.

As the escorts drop to their knees, Sir Adam joins them, signaling the rest of the Excalbians to follow suit.

The High Queen smiles lightly. "Please rise. We do, of course, welcome our guests to our lands. It is always our pleasure to establish friendships with new peoples and lands. We do look forward to working with you during your stay in Tarana."

Sir Adam rises and bows deeply. “Your Majesty,” he says, voice echoing in the hall, “thank you for your warm and gracious greeting. It is also our desire to establish a lasting friendship with your land.” The ambassador turns to John, who passes him a wooden case.

The ambassador takes the case and approaches the High Queen. “In a gesture of friendship,” Sir Adam says, “His Imperial Majesty, David IV, asked that I present you with this gift.” Sir Adam opens the case revealing two leather bond volumes. “The first book is a rare manuscript of the Holy Bible transcribed by monks in the Excalbian Isles in the 15th century and the second is an original edition of a volume of philosophy penned by Emperor Joshua the Great after converting the Empire to Christianity. The Emperor hopes you will accept both as symbolic of who we are as a people and as tokens of our friendship towards your lands.”

Beverly smiles. "Do not be overly concerned over it." She takes his arm and Diana takes the other.

Diana nods to John. "Of course, sir."

Corrina lifts the Bible up, opening it briefly and shifting through it. "This is a book of the exploits of your God, then?" She smiles with mild interest.

Sir Adam smiles at the High Queen. “In a manner of speaking, your Majesty. I understand that is more the exploits of the people of God, of His Son, the Christ, and of the early Church. But, I must confess that I am not a religious scholar. I can tell you, however, that our Emperor does draw great comfort and insight from this book and from that penned by his ancestor, Emperor Joshua. And,” the ambassador pauses for a moment before continuing, “if you are interested, I am sure that the priest who accompanied us to your capital would be happy to discuss our people’s religion with you before he departs for Holista.”

She studies the Bible a little more. "So it is a history of men?" She places it aside. "We thank you. It pleases us greatly to learn of the history of our friends. How do you find Tarana so far?"

Sir Adam's smile widens. Although he is not a young man, he is handsome and charming. "Your capital is enchanting and quite lovely, your Majesty. We have spent most of the day settling into our embassy, so we certainly hope to explore more of the city tomorrow." Sir Adam catches Dr. Kule, still intent on her exotic escort and VADM Norland, still standing a little too close to the troll captain. "And I must say that your people have made quite an impression on mine, your Majesty. We look forward to many... interesting exchanges."

Corrina smiles. "Perhaps we should let you dine with your escorts, then, before making your way to the reception at the Minister of State's office?"

Sir Adam bows. "An excellent suggestion, your Majesty!"

Corrina nods. The escorts bow themselves once more and Amir offers his arm to Dr. Kule. "Most radiant beauty, shall we?"

Corrina nods. The escorts bow themselves once more and Amir offers his arm to Dr. Kule. "Most rediant beauty, shall we?"

Dr. Amber Kule takes Amir’s arm with a smile and a slight blush. “You do flatter me, sir. Please. Perhaps you can finish your tales. And,” Kule’s blush deepened, “you haven’t yet told me whether you have a family… or a spouse…”

Sir Adam bows to the High Queen and offers his arm to Lady Annabelle. The rest of delegation, each one remembering this time to offer an arm to their escorts, fall in behind Sir Adam and the High Queen.

Amir smiles a little. "I have a sister and two brothers. I'm quite single. And I do not flatter you. I merely speak the simple truth."

The party is led into an elegant dining room, set with fine silver. Amir pulls a high-backed chair our for Dr. Kule. "Please, be seated lady."

Dr. Kule's smile seemed to deepen when Amir mentioned that he was single. As she took the offered chair, she mentally chided herself for losing her professional detachment, yet couldn't stop her smile.

"So," she said trying but failing to sound detached, "in all your adventures you've never found a soul-mate?"

Taking his spot at the table, VADM Norland held a chair for Tasha. "Captain," he said with a nod, "please have a seat. I hope to hear of some your battles. I suppose they are much different from the battles I have experienced..."

John and Hoerst also hold the chairs for their escorts and take their seats. John leans towards the trade attaché, "What do you think they'll serve?"

Hoerst hears the administrative officer yet shrugs him off, far more intent on charming both Diana and Beverly.

Sir Adam holds a chair for Lady Anabelle, to whom he bows and smiles. Taking his seat he turns to Anabelle, "Exquisite room..."

Amir shakes his head. "No, ma'am. I'm afraid I haven't."

The other ladies sit, though the High Queen did not accompany them.

Amir shakes his head. "No, ma'am. I'm afraid I haven't."

Dr. Kule smiles. "Please, call me Amber. Perhaps sometime you will take me on one of your adventures. I think it would be... fascinating."

Sir Adam, still leaning towards Lady Anabelle, asks, "My Lady, I understand from the High Queen that are to meet with you Minister. Do you know any issues in particular that the Minister may wish to discuss?"

Meanwhile, John, starting to feel a little hungry, looks for the servants whom he assumes will be serving the meal.

bump?

((Sorry for the delay, went a little braindead))

Amir smirks a little. "Perhaps. But then again, what motive could I have to seek wonder and beauty if I already have such wonderous beauty before my eyes?"

Lady Anabelle pauses a moment, in thought. "Not exactly. We haven't been involved in much international controversy, except the one incident with Androtia. Currently, we don't really have any enemies. Well, I suppose we are automatically enemies of those nations which consider themselves enemies of all sentient non-human races, Iesus Christi and the like. Still, we've never attracted the particular attention of such nations. Our way of dealing with such things is not to provoke and not to respond to provocation. He might suggest you exchange embassies with Holista as well as with the Imperial Court. After all, I understand you will be establishing missions there. An embassy might be helpful if any complications arise. After all, it is the first time Cro...Christianity has been preached in the Empire."

Dr. Kule laughed lightly. "Now, now, Amir, I know you are fattering me. From your tales, I gather that you are an adventurer at heart. And, I suspect not one to long remain in one place." Kule lowered her voice slightly. "Most people think of me as a dry, dull scientist, but I, too, think of myself as a bit of an adventurer; always exploring the frontiers of science." Kule leaned closer to Amir. "I'm certain we could find many wonderous things to explore together."

Sir Adam, meanwhile, nodded as he listened to Lady Anabelle. "I was thinking of inquiring about establishing consulates in some of the subsidiary capitals. Holista, of course, comes to mind, but where else do you think it might be worthwhile to establish a consulate?"

The servants arrive, setting out the salads for the guests and quietly inquiring what dressing each would like.

Amir smiles a little at Dr, Kule. "I don't find you boring in the least. Still, adventure is indeed in my blood. When your duties permit, I would love for you to accompany me."

Anabelle thinks a little. "Holista is likely to be the most friendly nation. Fireforge might also be receptive to an embassy. Shieldcrest would be cool but not hostile. Wintermore and Bilbtoria might be trickier propositions."

After asking the servants for a vinegrette dressing, Dr. Kule turns back to Amir. "Well, in fact, my chief duty as science attache is to explore. So, going on an adventure with you would not only be a pleasure, it would be part of my official duties." The young scientist's demure smile grew into a grin as she spoke.

Sir Adam listens intently to Lady Anabelle. "Interesting. We shall establish a consulate in Holista straight away. Could you tell me a little bit about the political situation there? And, out of curiousity, why would Wintermore and Bilbtoria be, as you say, trickier propostions?"

Amir just smiles a little. "I can hardly wait. I only hope your travel garb is half so fascinating as this delightful garment. Then again, anything would look lovely upon you."

Anabelle frowns lightly. "Bilbtoria is very religious and not very open to new religious ideas. Wintermore is rather irate about certain remarks recently reported to have been made by Princess Irene of Pantocratoria and seems to class you with your allies."

Dr. Kule turns her head to one side considering Amir's comment, then looks down at her pants suit. It all must be what you're used to, she thinks to herself. Then, she turns back to Amir. "Perhaps we can set out the day after tomorrow"

Sir Adam sighs. "So," he asks sounding casual, "what has Princess Irene said this time?"

Amir nods. "That would be quite lovely. I'll pick you up at your embassy.

Anabelle shrugs a little. "I don't remember the exact quote. The High Queen doesn't get excited everytime a foreign leader we don't even have relations with makes a racially offensive comment in their own country. Queen Eleanor is, however, shall we say, excitable? I believe the gist of it was that people such as myself are essentially animals and man is our natural master."

Dr. Kule smiles at Amir. "I will be ready."

Sir Adam shakes his head. "In general, I have found the Pantocratorians to be reasonable people and wonderful allies. But some of Her Highness statements are puzzling. I can assure you, my Lady, that the Holy Empire of Excalbia regards all sentient beings, and particularly other humanoids, as having equal rights and responsiblities to humans. Although, in all honesty, almost no non-humans have chosen to make their home in Excalbia. We are quite sure why that is..."

Amir nods, smiling a little as he eats.

Anabelle smiles reassuringly. "You don't need to convince me and I wouldn't worry about Queen Eleanor if I were you."

The other women also begin to eat.

Sir Adam nods and begins eating. Soon, the rest of the Excalbian delegation is following the lead of their hosts.

Sir Adam enjoys the meal and engages in occasional light conversation, but fells himself looking forward to his next meeting.

(OOC: Do you want to pursue Dr. Kule going an ‘adventure’ with Amir in another thread?)

((Sure. I'll post the meeting with the minister on this thread. Just give me a bit to write it.))

After dinner, the guests are shown into a small room where a sidhe man sits on the other side of a desk. Anabelle smiles as she gestures. "Minister James, the Excalbian delegation. Delegates, the foreign minister."

Sir Adam bows deeply to the Foreign Minister. "Your Excellency," he says smoothly, "I am Sir Adam Taurins, His Imperial Majesty's ambassador to the Empire of the Resurgent Dream." The ambassador pulled a small parchment from his pocket and presented it to minister. "My commission from His Imperial Majesty, your Excellency." Then, producing a modern sealed envelop from his other pocket, Sir Adam handed it to the minister as well. "And this is a personal letter from His Imperial Majesty, David IV, expressing his hopes for long-lasting and peaceful relations with your empire."

Sir Adam smiled at Minister James. "We wish to thank you for your hospitality. Lady Anabelle has been an outstanding guide and all of our escorts this evening have been charming. We hope to continue to get to know your land and your people.

"And," the ambassador bowed slightly, "if I might be so bold, I would like to use this opportunity to raise the possibility of establishing a consulate in Holista and of opening trade between our nations."

James takes the letter and the commission, smiling. "Everything seems in order here."

He pauses at Adam's words. "We hope to get to know you and your people better as well. We are a friendly people, on the whole, and a curious one."

He arches a brow at the second request. "Well, your relations with Holista have nothing to do with me. However, I believe they would be offended to receive merely a consulate and not an embassy. Is there a reason you do not want fully normal relations with them?"

Sir Adam’s face flushed briefly with a look of embarrassment. “I am sorry, your Excellency. While we are used to dealing with federative states – our neighbors, the Confederation of Sovereign States, for example – it seems we have underestimated the extent of your constituent kingdoms’ autonomy. We assumed that foreign relations were the exclusive area of your central, imperial government.”

Sir Adam’s face quickly returned to its natural smile. “Of course, in light of your advice, we will seek to establish a full embassy with them immediately. Tell me, your Excellency, would you or, in your opinion, would Holista object to temporarily accepting me as His Imperial Majesty’s ambassador to both courts? Only until the Citadel can dispatch a new ambassador to Holista, of course.”

James smiles reassuringly to Sir Adam. "Do not worry about it. We find it is a common mistake made by our foreign friends. The important thing to remember is that our form of government is more feudal than federal, albeit not strictly so. In theory, even a baron could exchange representatives with a foreign power, though I do not predict that would ever actually be attempted."

James frowns a little, considering the next question. "That is a rather unlikely proposition. You would have to work in two cities more than eight hundred miles apart."

Sir Adam smiled and turned towards VADM Norland. "If you are willing to grant us permission to use our own aircraft, and if the good admiral is willing to loan us one of his V-22's, the distance would not be a problem, your Excellency."

James shakes his head. "We wish to be friends but we have just established relations with you. We would have to have a much firmer friendship before we could allow foreign military aircraft regular use of our air space. I do not see the rush. Holista can await its own ambassador."

Sir Adam nodded. "As you wish, your Excellency. I shall notify the Citadel of the need to send a mission to Holista. And, now, your Excellency, may I ask if you have any thoughts on the question of trade and scientific and cultural exchanges?"

James nods a little. "Well, as you might or might not know, we currently have a policy of free trade with all nations, though imports must obviously conform to local laws. As for cultural exchange, I suppose that is where your missions in Holista would come under consideration. That program could only be spread throughout the empire, however, if it were reciprical, which our understanding of Cro...Christianity leads us to believe is not possible. An officer exchange program or a student exchange program would be quite workable."

OOC: Princess Irene has a real talent for offending people she barely knows, eh?

Anyway, sorry for the interruption, continue with your business. Your names have been noted and recorded by Irene's secret service. ;)

OOC: Whose names exactly? And you never roleplayed your secret service putting any agents or surveillance equipment in the Imperial Palace. If you really want people to put on your list, I could actually roleplay out the reaction in Wintermore.

James nods a little. "Well, as you might or might not know, we currently have a policy of free trade with all nations, though imports must obviously conform to local laws. As for cultural exchange, I suppose that is where your missions in Holista would come under consideration. That program could only be spread throughout the empire, however, if it were reciprical, which our understanding of Cro...Christianity leads us to believe is not possible. An officer exchange program or a student exchange program would be quite workable."

Sir Adam tilted his head to one side as listened to Minister James. "Unfortunately, your Excellency, I am not a theologian and somewhat less religious than is typically common for servants of the Sword in Excalbia, but I believe that some of your presumptions may be out of place. At least when it comes to the Holy Empire."

The ambassador shifted somewhat uncomfortably. "As I understood you, your Excellency, you would be willing to allow Christian missionaries from the Holy Empire to travel throughout your empire, if we were to allow practitioners of your religions the right to proselytize in our Empire. I assure you, notwithstanding the fact that the Church of Excalbia is the state religion, that the Holy Empire guarantees the freedom of religion. With the exception of a few... cults that practice illegal activities, minority religion are allowed in the Empire. They have found relatively few adherents, but they are permitted. If you wish it, as long as they abide by the law, your people would be permitted to send religious workers to the Empire."

The color returned to Sir Adam's face along with his smile. "As for your other suggestions - the officer and student exchanges - I would like to move forward with those as quickly as possible." Sir Adam glanced at VADM Norland and the trollish officer next to him. "In fact, I would like to extend the first invitation to the Captain here to travel to Excalbia to visit our training facilities and share in a mutual exchange of knowledge and skills."

OOC: Whose names exactly? And you never roleplayed your secret service putting any agents or surveillance equipment in the Imperial Palace. If you really want people to put on your list, I could actually roleplay out the reaction in Wintermore.

OOC: I was kidding. Irene might act like an old witch, but she isn't scrying on you or something. ;)

OOC: Sorry, Pantocratoria. I'm paranoid sometimes. :)

James nods a little, thoughtful. "Then we will be happy to exchange missionaries."

James smiles again at the proposal. "We would like to start at once as well. Captain Tasha, would you wish to serve in Excalbia?"

Tasha nods. "That sounds most pleasant."

The UPS man rapped, rapped upon their chamber door. He'd been delivering too many copies of "The Raven" by Edgar Allen Poe, lately. The door opened to a confused looking military man of some sort. "Uh, all right, I've got three missionaries to be delivered here. Sign here."

Suddenly, a B-52 was seen overhead, and its bomb bay doors opened. "Not again..." sighed the UPS man.

((OOC: B-52s don't suddenly appear. They have to make their way in somehow. And a new nation certainly can't casually penetrate Mists defenses. As this post stands now, it's godmodding and you've been making the same silly post to multiple threads for no discernible ic reason. RP seriously, please. IGNORE for now.))

VADM Tucker Norland smiles at the towering troll woman. “Excellent.” He turns towards the minister and bows slightly. “With your permission, Excellency,” then, turning back to Tasha he continues, “and yours, Captain, I shall contact the Citadel and make all the necessary arrangements. The day after tomorrow another officer can come to replace me as military attaché. Then, I would be pleased to escort Captain Tasha back to Reliant and from there on to Excalbia.”

Sir Adam smiled and nodded. “Very good. Very good indeed. Your Excellency,” the ambassador bows to the minister, “I shall convey your decisions to the Citadel immediately. The Ministry of Home Affairs shall be expecting your missionaries and shall grant them the necessary permits. Of course, we will ask that they submit a statement of their beliefs and practices. Also, I am sure that the Ministry of Education will be want to begin student exchanges as quickly as possible. Shall I pass the details of that program to your office, Excellency?”

(OOC: If you wish to RP either your missionaries going to Excalbia - might be amusing - or CAPT Tasha going to our military bases - also could be interesting - let me know and I'll open a new thread.)

OOC:
The Resurgent Dream telegramed me to tell you that they are having technical difficulties with the forums. They will be back as soon as possible.

James nods. "Granted, of course."

Tasha also nods. "Of course."

James pauses a little, thinking. "Thank you. I should...warn you that two of our churches might be rather problematic."

((OOC: Both sound like fun. Start either or both at your convenience.))

James nods. "Granted, of course."

Tasha also nods. "Of course."

James pauses a little, thinking. "Thank you. I should...warn you that two of our churches might be rather problematic."

Sir Adam arches an eyebrow. "How so, Excellency?"

James frowns a little, considering how to word it diplomatically. "The Church of the Aesir is rather rabidly hostile to the Christian religion. If they send missionaries, they're likely to be disruptive, purposefully so. The Church of the Fomorians, on the other hand, tests the limits of our commitment to freedom of religion. They hold beliefs most others would consider...rather disagreeable."

"Hmmm." Sir Adam placed a hand over his mouth, as if trying to hide his slight frown. "While we certainly value freedom of religion and free speech, we do expect everyone in the Empire, citizens and visitors, to hold to certain level of, umm, public decorum. This Church of Aesir would certainly be free to denounce Christianity, if they wish, but certainly would not be able to physically accost people or disrupt religious services or public events. But then, no one would be allowed to engage in such, um, public disorder."

Sir Adam's frowned deepened. "As for the Fomorians, how distasteful are their practices? There are laws against things like cruelty to animals, so animal sacrifice would be, erm, probably illegal, unless, perhaps, it was done on a private farm and the animal was later used for meat. Assuming, of course, that we'd be talking about livestock. Also, certainly, incitement to illegal activities, would also be, erm, illegal. We aren't talking about something like that, are we, Excellency?"

James sighs a little. "If only it were anything so overt or anything so simple. They don't incite crime or slaughter animals or anything of that nature. At least, they don't feel it's necessary. They're just...what they worship...it's...they're evil. There's is a church of darkness and misery and suffering. I don't know how else to put it. I shouldn't be saying this in my position but I'm not happy they're here. I certainly don't wish them on anyone else."

Sir Adam arched an eyebrow. "Very interesting, Excellency. I suppose as long as they obey the law, both of the religions you mentioned will be... permitted to operate in the Holy Empire. I hope, however, that you will understand that, if they do break the law, that they will have to deal with the consequences..."

James shrugs a little. "We don't stand behind them. If you have problems, there will be no interference from us so far as the enforcement of local laws are concerned."

Sir Adam smiled. "Of course, Excellency. Now, back to more pleasant matters. Captain Tasha will be joining Admiral Norland the day after tomorrow and student exchanges should begin shortly." The ambassador turned towards his commercial attache. "In conclusion, then, Excellency, may I return to trade matters? The Holy Empire is a leader in information technology, advanced materials and naval design. If you anticipate any modernization efforts in those areas, we would be more than interested..."

James shakes his head a little. "I suppose it is possible at some point in the future but the sitting Parliament is quite largely against any large scale importation of non-dream based sciences and technologies. However, I do believe cultural items would be well received as imports: Bibles, exotic rugs and furtniture, novels, things of that nature."

((OOC: Just a reminder, this thread started way before the change in queens or parliaments and has only been going about an ic day. so none of the modernization laws have occurred. NS time makes my head hurt.))

Sir Adam nods. "Very well, Excellency. I'm sure that a number of our commercial enterprises would be interested in supplying the cultural items you described. If, in the future, the government changes its position, I hope that we'll be able to explore other areas of trade."

With that the ambassador bows deeply. "Then, with your permission, Excellency, I will take my leave. I believe we have made a good start tonight in forging a new relationship."

(OOC: You're right about that. Sorry. Can we say that after the new government adopts its modernizing agenda that a similar conversation takes place and that Excalbian firms are allowed to enter the market - we're particularly good in IT and high-tech composite materials - or would you rather RP the second meeting? Also, in a day or two I'll launch a new RP for Captain Tanya.)

James nods deeply. "Of course. I believe so as well."

Amir stands and offers Amber a hand to rise. The women, even Tasha who towers many feet over the Excalbian men, wait, still seated for the moment.

((OOC: We can just say it happens, if we're going to be doing the Tasha rp and the Amber rp already. I can only be in so many threads and trade is not the most interesting topic, usually.))

The members of the Excalbian delegation stand and bow to the Minister, then turn and offer a hand to their escorts.

(OOC: I agree, let's just assume the trade deal happens.)

The escorts rise, taking their arms and escorting them back to the embassy. James smiles. "Good evening."

Once there, Amir bows over Amber's hand, kissing the air just above it. "I shall see you soon, dear lady."

FIN