NationStates Jolt Archive

Palinde walked somewhat self-consciously through her rose garden. It had been some time since she had crossed the ocean in a rundown garbage scow. It had been even longer since she had lived in a ramshackle shack or fought for her people's very right to live with a gun in her own hand. Still, Lady Palinde nos Thingol was having trouble adjusting to the court gown she now wore and to the comfortable manor in which she now lived. It was hardly a proper royal palace, not yet. Palinde insisted her funds be spent on the needs of her people before she would turn her attention to such things as palaces and the like. Her funds? Most of it was Menelmacari charity, as the proud maiden was painfully aware. She planned to pay it all back, of course, as soon as she managed to get a functional economy in full swing. Still, it rankled her to be anyone's almsguest, even the great Lady Sirithil.

Isorfir crossed his hands behind his back as he walked with her. "People are starting to built free lives again, Your Ladyship. We've managed to cultivate rather large areas as small, family farms. Ports, airports, cities, power plants, roads, we're building the kind of infrastructure needed for a functional modern nation. We have also, of course, begun building a substantial defense force. I'm grateful to our friends for their help, of course, but I'll sleep better when we can defend our own borders."

Cindil nodded abstractly. "Yes, yes, of course. Your Ladyship, it's time we began thinking about opening up more to the world. We've kept to ourselves a lot during settlement but...I think Your Ladyship's lands are developed enough to serve as a basis for an engagement with the world."

Buechoria will gladly send an ambassedor to begin relations with you growing nations. We have many surplus supplies that you might be interested in.

Karl Teuber
Minister von Außenpolitik
Das Sozialistische Republik Von Buechoria

The Free Land of Mariskale is interested in forming trade relations with their fellow growing nations. Our ambassador would be interested in discussing arrangements at the earliest possible convenience of her Ladyship's government.

With Courteous Sincerity,
Mariskalean Ministry of Trade

We will be willing to accept an Embassy from Buechoria and the Lady Palinde will be willing to receive the ambassador personally. However, your government should understand that our people are fiercely committed to the free enterprise system, both domestically and internationally. As for aid, we are slowly but surely repaying generous aid given to us by the kind government and people of Menelmacar and are not currently in need of further foreign aid.

Sincerely,
Celebriän Eärfalas, Minister of State

We would be glad to discuss trade relations with the Free Land of Mariskale. We are prepared either to receive a Mariskalean delegation here or to send delgates to Mariskale.

Sincerely,
Camthalion Vardamir, Minister of Commerce

The whorfs of Mariskale's main city were crowded with workers, swarming the exposed skeletons of new ships. The Prime Minister paced her balcony overlooking the swarming city, a dispatch in her brown hand. Her long blue gown slid over the intricately tiled floor with soft swishing sounds, in tune with the waves.
"Well," she asked finally, "They accepted the overture, now what?"
Second Minister Praylor tapped his fingers on the dark wooden table, he shook his head, "I'm not certain we can trade on equal terms with such a developing nation. I understand that they're recently recovering from civil conflict."
"And what are we, then? An established power?" The foreign secretary snapped from across the room. "Prime Minister, I say we accept the proposal. We're a small nation, we need the help of other smaller nations, with similar interests as our own. I say we accept."
"Respectfully, Prime Minister, the Foreign Secretary is out of her mind!"
"And the Second Minister is an exploitative sack of ---"
"PEOPLE! That's enough." The squabbling halted, all eyes on the Prime Minister. "We're going through with the negotiations. Have our ambassadors sent at once. This could be good for us, for our people. And we're going to make it work. Understood."
"Very Good, Prime Minister." Foreign Secretary Ralin broke out into a broad smile, "I'll send the ambassadors immediately."





To the agents of her Ladyship's Government,
The Mariskalean government, in agreement with earlier notices, will be sending two ambassadors, The Honorable Messrs. Kolas and Prol to discuss trade negotiations. We look forward to joyous and profitable relations between our two nations.
Foreign Secretary Ralin
The Free Land of Mariskale

Camthalion Vardamir stood by the docks, dressed in his finest silks, awaiting the human delegation from Mariskale. He looked quietly over the nation's basic profile, all he had to work with as yet. They were a little larger than a fortieth of Menegroth Reborn's size and the UN described their economy as a basket case, while the MR economy was very strong. Still, Vardamir also read that they were reknowned for their beautiful ships and he saw no harm is trade with anyone, as long as it was fair trade. He smiled as his mind wandered to ships and the call of the sea sounding so very close. Like most Elves, he felt its call deep in his bones.

Six captains of industry stood with the Minister, speaking quietly as they scanned the horizon. The expressions they bore were largely curious and a little apprehensive.

Ambassador Kolas watched as the great schooner Maris cut through the waves towards the unknown harbor. He was reasonably nervous about this expedition, this being the first Mariskalean trade mission in foregin waters. Menegroth Reborn seemed to be a worthy trading partner, and their economy was thankfully more organized than his own. However, Mariskale had much to offer the growing nation, ships and carvings, tile workings, and rare wines, even a new technological process his people had recently developed. The details of it were top secret, but there was little a cheif foreign relations officer could not discover. The Process, as it was called, was bound to be their most valuable trading asset, they would keep it in reserve for a while. All the better not to unsay what one did not say in the first place. Second Ambassador Prol approached from the other side of the ship. His long robes rippled in the winds. They were watching the docks now, where a small group of people were gathered. No doubt the official delegation come to greet them. Prol scanned the deck of their ship, to see that all was in order. The crew worked busily, but smoothly. This was the finest schooner in all of Mariskalean service, perhaps all the world. Beautifully constructed for the use in affairs of state. It's interior luxury was matched only by it's exterior detail. The finest Mariskalean carvers had worked on it's hull, emblazoning symbols of peace and prosperity. Yes, when they arrived they should make an impressive show indeed.
"I hope you are ready for this, Prol." Kolas said, eyes fixed on the delegation that was growing ever larger as the ship approached
"I know the Prime Minister's orders, if that's what you mean. She's heavily invested in this, isn't she?"
"She said she wished to open borders and trade, now we are. And it will be a good thing for all of us too."
There was no more time for discussion, the Maris was sliding into the docks of Menegroth. They had arrived.

As soon as the ship pulled into land, Elves working the docks immediately began mooring the ship to the dock. Vardamir took a moment to idly tuck his blonde hair behind his pointed ears before approaching the foot of the gangplank to meet the visitors. The six businessmen followed.

The Minister smiled politely. "Welcome to the Port of Hope's Dawning. I hope your trip went well."

The VAMCS Serpyrium Triumph (http://www.deviantart.com/view/14357310/) hung in orbit, a long train of cargo holds extending out beyond the bridge.

Kyrnan Debrise, Vice-Head of Mining Devision, read the messages as they came up on his screen. He sighed and yawned as he read through the dull reports about the results of his latest mining trip - he already knew them, but it was company policy to check everything one last time even as they were preparing to unload.

A small infobox flashed up in the corner of his screen, a few verbal commands later and the computer brought up the relevant details.

He spent a few minutes conversing with his superiors before writing out a communication to the Menegrothian government.

To the government of Menegoth,

I would be most interested to act as an ambassador between the Ventuusi Acquisitional Mining Corporation (VAMC) as well as the Ventuusi Nation. I request a response and can arrive swiftly as I am currently in orbit over the general vicinity of your nation, waiting to unload the results of my ship's latest mining venture.

Many regards,
Kyrnan Debrise,
Vice Head of Mining Division,
VAMC

Kyrnan Debrise, Vice-Head of Mining Division
The Minister is currently meeting with delegates from Mariskale. He would be glad to receive you afterwards or you could meet immediately with someone else in the Ministry.

Sincerely,
Tári Nénharma, Commerce Ministry

The Mariskalean Ambassadors bowed deeply
"Eternal Sunshine and Fair Winds to thee and thy people." Ambassador Kolas intoned. "We are pleased to have arrived at last. Menegroth is truly more than we expected, it is a great honor to be present at the dawn of both our nations. And yes, our trip was quite enjoyable, thank you."
Ambassador Prol stepped forward, "We are anxious to see all that your land has to offer, Minister Varadamir, as anxious as we are to show you our own resources. But perhaps it is not your custom to do business first?"

To Tári Nénharma of the Commerce Ministry,

I am perfectly content with either option. Whether to meet with the minister later to meet sooner with a member of his staff.
I am easily able to come whenever is most convenient for you, as my cargo can be unloaded by my crew.

Many regards,
Kyrnan Debrise,
Vice Head of Mining Division,
VAMC

My humble people would like to establish friendly relationships, with you flowering, thriving nation.

The Necrontyr Empire would of course be delighted to exchange ambassadors with Menegroth Reborn at the earliest opportunity. We hope that such exchanges will prove to be precursors to a long and respectful relationship.

Elash Miriel, Adjutant of the Emperor

The Ctan

We will gladly accept an embassy from the Necrontyr Empire and establish an embassy to the Empire. Your ambassador shall be received by the Lady Palinde personally upon arrival.

Sincerely,
Celebriän Eärfalas
Foreign Minister

Cultivators

We look forward to the establishment of normal and friendly relations with your people, including an exchange of embassies as soon as might be arranged.

Sincerely,
Celebriän Eärfalas
Foreign Minister

Ventuus

I will be ready to meet with you immediately. Please come to my officie in the Ministry of Commerce Building.

Sincerely,
Tári Nénharma
Ministry of Commerce

Mariskale

Vardamir smiled. "A new dawn perhaps and the dawn of this as a sovereign nation state in the modern sense. Still, my people and my culture are by no means young." He began to walk, heading along the docks. "Of course, I cannot trade you this good for that good on my own authority. We are a capitalist country and leave such decisions to private business. The more important question is what kind of trade relations we are to have, no?"

A tall, muscular dwarf sat on a desk, pondering over the nation of Menegroth Reborn. Of course, the name itself was well-known to him as the former capital of Doriath, Thingol's realm. An interesting and less-known fact was that Azaghal Nardukher's, Gabiluzbad of the myriad dwarf-realms of Liang, ancestors on one side, dwarves from the Blue Mountains, had delved the first Menegroth from the stone by whence it got its famous nickname, "The Thousand Caves". Another elven nation, sheltered and guided by the Noldorin empire, certainly was cause for investigation, especially because of the...unique relationship that existed between Sinda and Khuzd. We built their capitals, made them an exquisite necklace, then sacked the kingdom and killed the Lord of the Sindar taking it back, and were mutually hostile for millenia over it. Now our relations are warming. Hopefully it will remain that way. Azaghal decided that crippling an ancient Sindarin kingdom for a necklace, with hindsight, seemed like a very petty thing to do.

Deciding that perhaps simply watching events was best, and that he had quite a handful of work to do in Barazûn, Azangathol, and Khazad-dûm, the Gabiluzbad set the memo aside and returned to work.

The Ambassadors followed, listening carefully. The opening of trade relations was a delicate procedure, and they could see that the elven nation was being as careful as their own. Ambassador Kolas spoke first,
"Of course, Minister. We would never wish to upset your systems. We are committed as well to free and open trade. I fear my colleague is merely anxious, we have been eagerly looking forward to meeting you and your people."
"I meant no offense, certainly minister." Prol apologized "Your city is quite lovely, Minister. How long have your people inhabited this country?" The last word was spoken with a slight gasp. The Ambassadors were having trouble keeping up with the long elven strides.

The vessel that arrived was a creamy white, curved object reminiscient of a traditional boat. It was designed, unlike many over vessels using the same gravitational technology to operate solely in the atmosphere of earth, and as such, it had the option to run in both open topped, and covered {using a transparent material similar to plastics} modes.

It was in the former when it arrived, setting down at the docks, hovering a scant few inches from the surface of the water, which rippled and bubbled beneath it. Standing, a tall blonde man walked back along the short skiff, and stepped off onto the ground, slightly uncertainly as the ‘boat’ was still in slight motion.

He was dressed in beige and teal vestments, that while they lacked the look of a uniform, definitely looked formal, with a gold and purple trim, He had sharp blue eyes, and looked around, smiling. There were several others aboard the skiff, but they didn’t seem interested in coming ashore immediately.

Mariskale

The Minister slowed his stride to match that of the humans. He left the dock to a large elongated ground vehicle reminiscent of a limousine, though silver in color. Another elf held the door open for the humans and the ministry delegation. "We can go over the details at the office. In any event, I hope your trip went well."

The Ctan

Celebriän Eärfalas stepped towards the ambassador from Ctan as he disembarked, smiling broadly. "Good day, sir. I'm Celebriän Eärfalas, Her Ladyship's Foreign Minister. I hope your trip went well?"

OOC: the full diplomatic telegram that goes out to everyone

To: the Entity of Menegroth Reborn
From: Office of the Consul-General, Tower of Kings, Wye City, Weyr, Sol
Subject: Diplomatic Exchange

The Kingdom of Weyr is interested in creating diplomatic ties with the Entity of Menegroth Reborn. A delegation of:

1 Ambassador
1 Diplomatic attaché
1 Commercial attaché
1 Cultural attaché
1 Defense attaché
16 General staff
16 High Guard

are standing by for your approval. If possible, we would like to rent or purchase a building/office space to act as our embassy. Barring that, we can also construct our own structure.

Space for your delegation is available within Embassy Tower, where all foreign embassies within Weyr are located. Floors 40, 48-67, and 103-210 are available at this time. The Diplomatic Service provides security, basic services, and secure telecommunications, including leyNet, instel, and direct courier. Furniture, electronics, special services, and any other amenities are provided freely upon request. The Diplomatic Service pays for all services. It should be noted that security and safety of any foreign delegates is not guaranteed outside of Embassy Tower unless those delegates are accompanied by Diplomatic Service staff.

Embassy Tower is located in our capital city of Wye, a city of approximately 500 million persons built on the southwestern slopes of Mt. Weyr. We recommend that foreign delegations arrive via Wye International Skyport, where Diplomatic Service officials can meet them. The Skyport is equipped to handle most types of thaumaturgic transport, starcraft and aerocraft. The Diplomatic Service can also provide transport to and from any spacioplanar coordinates for no charge.

Any foreign entity can also construct or rent a structure or space outside of Embassy Tower. However, the Kingdom of Weyr cannot be held responsible for the safety of that structure, or for the safety of the persons residing within it. Diplomatic Service can provide limited security for the said structure, but cannot guarantee the integrity of that security. Furthermore, the availability of secure communications, services, and transportation for such a structure or location may be limited.

The Kingdom of Weyr has no restrictions on trade, and permits nations to freely buy and sell all goods and substances within its borders. This includes, but is not limited to: weapons, toxic substances, motor vehicles, WMDs, foodstuffs, raw materials, and finished goods. This cannot be restricted or expanded upon by any treaties. The Kingdom of Weyr does not enforce Phyle laws, and cannot be held responsible for any problems and/or damages that arise as a result of violating said Phyle laws.

The Kingdom of Weyr does not recognize extraterritoriality. Weyr’s courts will try any foreign delegates or visitors in accordance with Weyrean law.

This includes:
- Trial by an elected jury within seven days of arrest
- A free lawyer/counsel, to be given upon request
- Communication with any party, after arrest, via a monitored link
- The ability to sue for personal damages incurred while under arrest

However, foreign delegates are permitted to have their home nation pay for the court fines. It should be noted that Weyrean courts issue sentences that are monetary in nature.

Weyrean law has only three crimes: murder, theft, and malicious manipulation.

Weyr is not interested in military alliances at this time. However, Weyr holds a policy of non-aggression towards all nations.

Sincerely,
Consul-General J. W. Gibbs

--------------------------------
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--------------------------------

To: the Entity of Menegroth Reborn
From: the Weyrik Board of Estimates, Wye City, Weyr, Sol
Subject: Investments

The Kingdom of Weyr is highly interested in the entity of Menegroth Reborn, and would like to inquire as to the possibility of private investment into said entity. The investments in question should not be considered official government loans, and will be the sole responsibility of the entities responsible for initiating them. In order to facilitate this process, the Kingdom of Weyr requests a copy of the Entity of Menegroth Reborn's trade laws and regulations, as well as any relevant materials, or a location where said materials can be found.

Sincerely,
Weyrik Board of Estimates

The ambassador bowed and smiled, “And I am Ambassador Karsan Vandire,” he glanced back at the skiff, “Yes, the weather has been nicely clement today, and it was a smooth trip. In any case, I am honoured to greet you in friendship. It is the sincere wish of my government that our relationship is as tranquil and beneficial as the weather has been,” he smiled a little once more and glanced over his shoulder at the sea.

Kyrnan Debrise dropped out of the mining barge in a small microshuttle (http://www.deviantart.com/view/14395706/), quickly descending to the planet's surface. It landed smoothly, the VAMC symbol (with a distinct lack of co-incidence, it is also the same as the Ventuusi flag) emblazed upon its side.

The Vice-Head of Mining Division climbed dextrously out of the small craft, his single-breast pinstripe suit pristinely pressed. His tie carries the symbol of the VAMC along with a complex pattern in gold stitching which one would guess denotes his exact position within the company. One hand holds a slender briefcase.

Kyrnan himself is reasonably tall, with short hair that has been gelled into a strange combination of spikes and sweeps. Debrise seems surprisingly young to be holding such a position (Vice-Head of Mining Division in a corporation that is primarily a mining company is a significant post), perhaps in his mid to late twenties.

He glances up at the building he is visiting to confirm that he is in the right place before walking confidently to the doors.

The Ambassadors hesitated at the door of the vehicle. In their nation there were almost no motorized vehicles, and while they were familiar with various kinds of engines neither Ambassador had ever actually traveled in an automated vehicle. Ambassador Kolas recovered his composure first, and taking a deep breath entered the vehicle with as much grace as possible. Prol followed, frowning at the strange contraption. Still, they had come to learn about other cultures, and so they were.
"Our trip went quite well, minister thank you. And quite rapidly. Prime Minister Anala insisted we not keep Her Ladyship's government waiting." Prol said, somewhat absently. He and Kolas were both intently watching the scenery pass by the vehicle's windows. Kolas noted that increased motorized transport might be a valuable commodity, a worthy trade if the elves were interested in The Process. They would have to wait and see, and gather information of course.
"Tell me, Minister Varadmir. Do these machines impact your eco system in any way?" Kolas asked innocently.

Mariskale

Varadmir frowned just slightly at the question as the vehicle began to move. "Unfortunately, they do. These machines emmit gases which pollute the atmosphere to a certain extent."

Ventuus

A young, Avari secretary looked up from behind her desk as Debrise entered the building. "How may I help you, sir?"

Ctan

Eärfalas smiled warmly to Vandire. "That is our wish as well. Perhaps you could tell me some of your nation. We are, unfortunately, rather ignorant in the ways of the Necrontyr."

He gestured towards a waiting car. "In the meantime, of course, Lady Palinde is waiting to see you."

Weyr

We are perfectly willing to exchange embassies with Weyr. We accept the terms set forth in your dispatch.

Sincerely,
Celebriän Eärfalas
Foreign Minister

Kolas nodded slowly, "How terribly unfortunate. In Mariskale we chose to forgo the use of motorized transport particularly for that reason, but it was perhaps not a good choice economically speaking. I must confess this is the first time I have ever traveled in a motorized vehicle. I find the whole idea...intriguing."
"Minister Varadmir," Prol interjected, sensing that perhaps speaking of the less appealing part of their economy was not at the moment wise, "How far will this "intriguing" vehicle be taking us?"

Viandire nodded a little, "Actually, I would suspect you know more than you realise. I am given to understand that you are familiar to some degree with Menelmacar," he said, getting into the waiting vehicle. "in terms of society and custom we are very similar to them. However, the vast majority of us live off world, as one would say, we hold some outposts here and there though. There's a different history at work too, but I don't pretend to be able to explain it in its entirety."

The White Tower is interested in forming relations with your name, we would be honoured to send an ambassador to your nation to establish the foundations of a relationship.

Sarah E. Tay
The Amrylin Seat
The Flame Of The White Tower
The Queendom Of New Endenia.

The VAMC representative glanced around the entry hall, briefcase in hand. Debrise removed his tinted glasses and smiled down at the secretary.

"Kyrnan Debrise, of the VAMC, here to see Tári Nénharma."

He smiled disarmingly, the very picture of corporate and ambassador rolled into one.

[[Sorry about the shortness of the post]]

We are perfectly willing to exchange embassies with Weyr. We except the terms set forth in your dispatch.

Sincerely,
Celebriän Eärfalas
Foreign Minister

To: Celebriän Eärfalas, Foreign Minister
From: Office of the Consul-General, Tower of Kings
Re: Diplomatic Exchange

A preliminary delegation has been dispatched, with the full delegation schedueled to follow once a permanent embassy/consulate location is confirmed. Due to a lack of other requests, space has been prepared for your delegation within Embassy Tower. Please be advised that the Kingdom of Weyr cannot be held responsible for delegations of whose arrival it was not informed.

Sincerely,
Consul-General J. W. Gibbs

What other terms would they expect? Wil Mai wondered, sorting through the assorted files and briefs hardcoded into his briefing datachit. Vultures, the ambassador muttered to himself. Everyone wanted a piece of the nation so closely tied to Menelmacar. Trade requests, exclusive exploitation rights, military presense, quasi-independent concessions...

"Anything good?" the cultural attache asked, turning away from the dropship's thick, oval stressglas window. The half-elf was not really a permanent Diplomatic Service worker -- the service just happened to have been looking for someone familiar with Noldorin culture at the samwe time she was looking for a job.

"Nope," Mai reached back, unplugged the pair of slender cables linking him to the datachit from the back of his neck. "Just make sure everything's ready, ask if they're open to corporate investment, then sit back and wait for the next rotation to show up." Corporations ad interest groups were free to spam the Diplomatic Service with requests, and the Diplomatic Service was free to ignore them.

The craft jolted; repulse drives whined; rear thrusters flared to life. Throwing up a slight wave, the vessel sped towards the docks. It could've dropped straight to the destination, but the Service people back at Wye weren't sure if the locals knew not to look directly at the ion shield flare. The Diplomatic Service wasn't interested in paying for retinal regrowth. Thus, the sleek, charred craft, whose original colour might have been silver or gray, raced a few meters above the waves towards the docks.

Weyr

Another party of Elves arrived down by the docks to await the Weyrean vessel. This group consisted of four men and two women, peering curiously at the approaching charred vessel. All six of them had certainly ridden in unsightly vessels as a matter of utmost need but...to willingly make a ship that isn't pretty? The Elven mind could barely grasp the concept.

Ventuus

"Of course. Miss Nénharma is waiting for you." The secretary answered in English, smiling. "Second floor. Room 204." She gestured him towards the elevator.

Tári Nénharma had her door open as she worked busily at a rather large pile of paperwork on her desk. She was Nandor, if the man could tell, and rather pretty even by Elven standards. Her hair was golden blond and her face seemed to be constantly illuminated by a good natured smile, despite the rather large pile of busywork she seemed to have. She looked up as Debrise entered, standing and extending her hand. "Tári Nénharma,Deputy Director of International Trade."

New Endenia

We would be happy to receive your ambassador and will recepticate by sending an embassy of our own to New Endenia, with the permission of your government.

Sincerely,
Celebriän Eärfalas
Foreign Minister

The Ctan

"We are quite indebted to the Menelmacari, actually." Eärfalas commented with a slight smile. "Until a year or so ago, we were a people with out a home. A strong and unbroken people but one in a rather desperate situation. Now..." He grinned broadly as he considered it. "Now we are building a nation among nations. Also, of course, there are cultural and racial ties. We are a nation of Quendi and we do have a notable Noldorin minority of about twenty million."

He paused for a second before asking, "Would you prefer to speak in Quenya, then?"

Mariskale

"Just a couple miles to the ministry building. We can do all the official business there." The Minister smiled politely, glancing out the window.



He paused thoughtfully a moment.

Debrise smiled and nodded.

"Thank you."

Kyrnan entered the lift calmly, ascending to the second floor before stepping out. He moved easily to room 208.

"Delighted to meet you Ms Nénharma. Kyrnan Debrise, Vice-Head of Mining Division, Ventuusi Acquisitional Mining Corporation"

His handshake is firm and confident. He glanced at the paperwork and grinned in sympathy.

"An impressive collection, reminds me of the pile waiting for me in HQ."

He appears to be human, although he has golden irises and a slightly inhuman cast to his features.

Ambassador Prol tried to sit still and composed like Kolas. Still, there was a reaason he was only the second high ambassador. Kolas was a little bit better at all of this diplomatic two-stepping they were doing, Prol was a closer, he got the point across and the deal finsihed, but he didn't care much for the in between. He had better watch himself or he was going to say something he shouldn't. The miles passed slowly.

The craft was functional, or as functional as Weyreans wanted to make it. Mass production was something Weyreans had had three hundred years to perfect. Perhaps that was also the reason Weyr had an incredible unmployment rate, but that correlation was constantly debated, and never really resolved.

Mai poked a button by the hatch, watched it swiftly slide inward and to the side, seeming to vanish into the craft's hull, deftly stepped onto the dock. Weyreans were often mistaken for elves, at leats by those who had never met elves. Certainly, neither the Noldorin nor the Sindarin had ears even half as long as those of an average Weyrean. Nor could an average elf list his hair color as acid green. Ambassador Wil Mai could say that he had natural acid green hair and eyes.

By Weyrean standards the ambassador and his party were not heavily armed. That it was normal to see persons with both swords and large-caliber subetheric firearms on non-Phyle-controlled streets in Weyr was often missed by foreigners. Mai's rapier was partly hidden by a light gray cloak, the same as that worn by the other two members of his party, with the sun, three stars, and mountain of the Kingdom of Weyr woven in silver on its right breast. Aside from Mai's rapier, the preliminary delegation didn't carry any weapons.

"Ambassador Wil Mai," he bowed to a precise forty-five degree angle before the six Menegrothi, his two adjuncts following in turn. "Cultural Attache Lina Chen, and Commercial Attache Aaron li'Paradox*. An honour to meet you."

*The li' attachement is most closely translated as 'of'. It is not a true last name, however, and a person is never reffered to as Mr. li'XXXXXX.

Mariskale

Varadmir shifted slightly during the silent ride. "We do have plans to substantially beautify this city. Everything is under construction at the moment and it is only a makeshift capital. Her Ladyship has rather special plans for the near future."

Ventuus

Nénharma laughed a little. "Almost all of these businesses are less than a month or so old. People are founding new businesses, getting their lives back together. It truly is an exciting time though...rather hard for us here at Commerce to keep track of."

She sat back down, tucking a golden lock behind an elegantly pointed ear. "So how can I help you, Mr. Debrise?"

Kolas perked up at the mention of Her Ladyship,
"Her ladyship has made impressive strides towards recovery already. I'm sure her future plans will be equally industrious."
Prol eyed Varadmir shrewdly, "If it would not be too bold, Minister, what are her ladyship's plans for the future of Menegroth Reborn?"

Kolas settled back into his seat, taking Varadmir's meaning with a private smile. The Minister was not one to be easily led into questions, that was good to know. Prol remained confused and alert, unsure of what had just happened. Kolas nodded to Minister Varadmir.
"Indeed. Our people have built ships since before recorded history, simple dug out canoes, fishing boats, pleasure craft, great ships of state like the Maris. Even the occasional warship, when a sailpowered vessel with cannons for teeth could still keep the world at bay. However, times are changing, and we are ready to adapt. Our nation fosters a flourishing artistic community beyond the shipwrights. Carvers, painters, weavers, potters, actors, dancers, and so forth whose services we hope will ease the transition. We are also currently considering applying our affinity for shipbuilding to space travel. We too are being, reborn you see minister, as a modern nation."

Weyr

The first Elf bowed slightly. "I'm Golradir Telemnar. This is Camthalion Carnesîr, Findecáno Sindanárië , Orodreth Vardamir, Lúthien Véneanár, and Tári Tasartir." He gestured to each member of his party as he spoke. "If you come with us, we'll show you to your embassy." He paused a moment, seeming slightly hesitant.

Mariskale

Varadmir just smirked slightly. "It's all in the name my friend." He gazed out the window with a light smile. "So your people are shipwrights by nature?"

(OOC: I already answered the question i think, see above. lol, so confused!)

Debrise smiled as he took the seat opposite Nénharma.

"I can imagine that it would be an exciting period, sadly it is something we have not had for a while in the Ventuusi Nation, as most of our commerce in controlled by the V.A.M.C, the company that I work for. One thing that many would argue is a disadvantage of the monopoly that V-A has over Ventuus is the lack of variety, but I think that the economic stability and multiple benefits provided by Ventuusi Acquisitional are worth it. Naturally some disagree, and that is their call."

He shrugged slightly, smiling faintly.

"We could probably help you with the paperwork if you need a hand, there are a couple of artificial intelligence units aboard my ship that are bored out of their circuits.
"Anyway, to business."

He set his briefcase down on the floor and fastidiously brushed a piece of dust from his jacket sleeve.

"Both the Ventuusi Nation and the VAMC are interested in nations that are either making a recent appearance, or that are returning to the limelight after a period of time. The Nation is interested because it never hurts to have friends, and because it can lead to numerous benefits for both countries. VAMC is, naturally, interested in diplomatic relations due to the ties between company and country in Ventuus, and of course the possibility of trade between nations.
"Ventuusi Aquisitional is always interested in trade of one kind or another, particularly when it comes to mining and fuel rights, in return for which the Company contributes to the national economy, as well as assisting the civil service with computing systems, or the government with other things that they might find necessary."

Debrise leans back in his chair, watching the elf carefully from behind his darkly tinted glasses.

"I'm not terrible with my Quenya," he said, "but for most purpouses I am more at home with Sindarin though," he added, sounding somewhat apologetic for a moment, before getting into the waiting vehicle.

(Ack. Poor, I know.)

The Ctan

Eärfalas laughed a little, switching to Sindarin. "That's even better, actually. Sindarin is the second most commonly used language in Menegroth Reborn, after Doriathrin proper. I think you'll find almost everyone fluent and, as for those who don't, someone who speaks Sindarin well should have no problem understanding most Doriathrin words and phrases."

Ventuus

Nénharma nodded politely as he discussed the advantages and disadvantages of monopoly for Ventuus. "I would never comment on how the economy of a fellow capitalist nation was organized. However, here in Menegroth Reborn, we do believe that competition is the driving force of the free market system."

The Nandorin woman waved off his offer of assistance. "I appreciate the offer but we prefer to do our own work. I'm not quite ready to be obsolete just yet."

She considered his offer for a minute or two in thoughtful silence. "Could you elaborate somewhat on what you have to give in exchange for these mining and fuel rights?"

Mariskale

Varadmir smirked lightly. "Have you ever seen an Elven ship of the ancient model?"

Debrise laughed at the "obsolete" comment.

"AIs still need people to watch over them - some have an irritating sense of humour. Privately I suspect that the Company prefers them that way, keeps the rest of us alert."

He shrugged slightly before answering her question, then reached down and clicked open his briefcase, withdrawing a laptop. He spent a couple of moments fiddling with it while he spoke.

"Trade agreements, access to high-intensity mining and welding lasers, reduced transport rates for your goods if you use VAMC trading craft as third party transports, not to mention spacelifted goods if you find yourself in a war - a way of getting through naval blockades that ships cannot stop. Cheaper production contracts to help your businesses and governmental sectors become more efficient, faster. The VI-Mining Corporation has a lot to offer, and I have barely scratched the surface."

He places the laptop carefully on a desk, turning it so that the current display reveals a set of photographs and designs for various items that he has mentioned, cycling through to ones he has not yet spoken of.

Nénharma grinned. "Most of that sounds very useful. Because a good deal of our mineral deposits are on public land, we will have to run this by Interior. Still, I think we have the workings of a deal here. However, I must ask, what if the nation we're at war with has military spacecraft? Quite a few powers do these days."

Vandire copied the lingual shift, "Excellent. I had suspected that it might indeed be so," he said with a smile, "Quenya isn't that widely spoken in casual use in my experience, even in Menelmacar itself. It is probably the second most widely used tongue 'at home' too, necrontyr doesn't actually see much use in comparison to either."

"Of course," Mai inclined his head once more. "Is there a problem," he inquired smoothly, noting the slight wavering. He didn't really care if he was making his 'hosts' uncomfortable, but any potential problems had to be ironed out, whatever their cause.

The Ctan

Eärfalas nodded. "I understand. The Necrontyr people originate on a different world, do they not?"

Weyr

Telemnar shook his head. "There shouldn't be. However, we're not used to people arriving so soon after arranging for an embassy."

Kolas shook his head, "I regret that we have not had the pleasure of seeing the elven ships. We would be happy to see some of your old models, though. Perhaps compare notes. Do they still have shipwrights of the old style here in Menegroth?"

Varadmir shrugged. "There are still Elves who know the art, of course. However, everyone's efforts over the last few months have been, unfortunately, rather dedicated to necessity. It is a sight to be hold though. Light, white winged ships that race the winds and sail the remembered old line of the world before it was broken." He sighed nostalgically and looked out the window.

Giles Bottomhill looked at the governmen building of Menegroth Reborn. As the elected ambassador of the cultivators in that nation, he had an important duty: opening the cultivators embassy. The only thought of the big pack of documents waiting him made him trembling, but it was his work, and he had to do it. He entered in the building, thinking of his future in Menegroth.

"We could have come later," the Weyrean ambassador responded. "But since there didn't seem to be much point in waiting..."

Kolas smiled, imagining the sight of such a ship sailing into the Maris City Harbor. It would be a fine thing for an ambassador to be remembered for, perhaps in time it would come to pass.

"Well, Minister," Kolas replied, "Perhaps with mutually good relationships between our two peoples, we can help ease the burden of neccessity and the elven ships might sail again."

Krynan steepled his hands as he thought.

"Your point is a valid one, and would depend upon the individual situation. Where we are facing an entire fleet it is true that we would have difficulty. However, I am certain that we would find a way around it. If necessary we would come in via sea or air - with their attention focuses on the Astra it would not be a problem. In addition, we have certain ships specifically designed as blockade runners that could get through the vast majority of preventative fleets.
"In most cases a blockade would involve relatively few ships - easy enough to get through. While our ships lack the sheer firepower of many other craft designs, we use heavy enough armour and shielding to be able to withstand most blockaders."

Ventuus

Nénharma nodded. "Like I said, I have to coordinate all of this with Interior. We should have a proposal drawn up in a week or so."

Mariskale

Varadmir just arched a brow as they pulled up in front of the Ministry building. A young Elf opened the door and Varadmir gestured for his guests to proceed him.

Weyr

Telemnar bit his tongue, hard. "If you'll follow me please..." He began to walk towards a small fleet of cars, assembled unexpectedly and at great inconvenience.

Cultivators

((OOC: Where are you, exactly? There's not a "the government building"))

"Of course," Ambassador Mai nodded impassively, following. Were he informed that the embassy was not ready, he would have waited at the dockside if necessary without much fuss, although perhaps personally he would have been annoyed at not being informed of the situation beforehand. Weyreans understood in some abstract way that not all nations kept things at the ready, or shared the Weyrean belief that putting things off was a waste of time.

Kolas and Prol nodded politely and exited the car. Prol was impressed with Kolas' boldness, it was usually the junior ambassador's job to make the pointed comments and diplomatic innuendo. Prol was, after all, the most direct link to the Parliament, whereas Kolas represented the Hereditary Prime Minister's interests in cheif. Still, there was no time for debate. They had arrived at last, the Ministry building of Menegroth Reborn.

Vandire smiled a little more, "Both originally and to a large extent, now. There are a large number of necrontyr resident in Menelmacar, but they generally hold dual citizenship. Additionally, there are some necrontyr in Isasrach, not so far from here. Overall however, necrontyr make up a very small percentage of the overall population, though they have a disproportionate cultural, if not political influence. In total, resident in our territories we have around thirty million necrontyr. There are far more Quendi of assorted races and kins present, and of course a great number of humans, or rather," he languidly adjusted the pocket of one of his robes, "quasi-humans. There are a few differences.

"The actual necrontyr homeworld is largely uninhabited today, we and they now live, for the most part on the nearby, in galactic terms at least, world of Duat, and its moons," he smiled somewhat apologetically, "Alas I can't exactly supply a map at this exact moment, but we generally pride ourselves as a nation on the environment* of Duat."

----

*My shoddy excuse for claiming a wonderfully beautiful environment despite UN rankings to the contrary is the barren moons, hellishly polluted prison-world, and numerous ashen wastelands the C'tan also claim as sovereign territory.

OOC: to M.reborn
some of your functionaries brought my ambassador to a building, and they said that he had to open the embassy there.

Cultivators

The building has been largely prepared already for official use. It contains offices, meeting rooms, waiting rooms, lounges, a cafeteria and some living quarters.

Ctan

Eärfalas stepped out of the car as it pulled to a stop before the manorhouse. "Lady Palinde awaits you, my lord."

Mariskale

Varadmir followed them in, walking towards a large office and opening the door for them. "In here, please."


Weyr

The Weyreans were driven to a large building on the outskirts of town where staff were urgently carrying in furniture and supplies.

((OOC: Sorry for the short, crappy replies. I'm in desperately trying to catch up mode here.))

"I get the feeling we were supposed to have waited," the ambassador said in Common Weyrik once in the car.

"It's a cultural thing," the cultural attaché responded.

"So...do we pay them for their troubles?" Mai asked. There were always little problems like this -- someone misunderstood something, and everyone got the wrong impression of the other party. "Thank them? Offer apologies?"

"I'd suggest a bit of both," she shrugged, looking out the window, turned to Telemnar, switched to Quenya. It wasn't the exact same language as that spoken here, most probably, tinged as it was with the slightly twisted inflections and the alteration of phrasing of Minas Estel, but it was still quite understandable. "It's a beautiful city. Can't say the Kingdom has much like it, really."

But we've had a millennia to make mistakes, Ambassador Wil Mai did not say. Lina Chen was an idealist; or maybe just a product of what was essentially a Noldorin substate within the greater Kingdom. He hadn't spent enough time with her to know for sure.

Telemnar arched a brow ever so faintly at the comment. It was not a beautiful city, not by Elven standards at least. It was just a humble beginning, a hurried attempt to make it possible for people to live. Still, he forced a smile at the compliment. "Why thank you. We hope you will come see them when we have finished building real cities, great cities and..." He trailed off a little. He wasn't going to talk about THAT yet. He wasn't even really supposed to know. "Shall I leave you to get settled?"

"Certainly," the ambassador nodded. "Is there any way I can contact you, or whatever person in your government deals with economic stuff?" There were some interesting offers in his initial document file, although they had to be sorted, first. At least, he assumed they might be interesting to Menegroth.

The ambassador brushed himself off once more as he exited the car, always keen on making a good impression, he understood it to be particularly important in the current circumstances, He felt as if something of a weight rested upon his shoulders, and this wasn’t at all helped by having been extensively briefed by Senator Aiyana while on Isasrach that he was required to make a good impression on these particular Sindar for the good of the nation, as well as being a simple matter of principle.

Still, he felt himself up to the task in most ways, though he had little practical experience in the matter of diplomacy, he had been quite extensively trained, especially in interacting with elves. He took a step towards the manor house, observing the way it managed to seem older than everything else, if for no other reason than being one of the more expensive seeming buildings in the ‘city.’

Two Elven guards stepped aside as he approached the door, one holding it open for him. In the front room, a simple affair decorated only with a couple paintings from Elven history and a few nicely upholestered chairs and couches, stood Tar-Emerwen with four finely dressed Elven men. Tar-Emerwen herself was quite lovely with golden hair like the rays of the dawn and the noble, angular features so typical of Elvenkind. When she spoke, the effect was even more lovely. Her lilting voice left little doubt that she was of the line of the ancient lady who had conquered Melkor himself with her sweet lullaby. "Good evening, Ambassador. It is my honor to receive you in....what shall serve as a temporary capital."
...
Telemnar nodded to the Weyreans. "There's contact information inside."

Vandire bowed deeply, smiling slightly, “and it is my honour to be here your majesty, “ he said, “Though this may be a temporary capital, from what I have seen it is most certainly a good portent for the future cities of your nation. For my part, I extend the greetings of the Emperor of the C’tan as well as the people and government of the Necrontyr Empire.”

Tar-Emerwen inclined her head graciously. "Thank you, Ambassador. I understand that your Empire is great friends with the Quendi people?"

She smiled warmly as she moved over towards one of the couches. "Come, Your Excellency. Sit with me awhile and we shall speak of many things."

He sat and smiled, “Thank you your majesty. That is indeed our policy,” he said, “and of course, why I am here. We are eager to become friends of your people as we have with most, if not all, of the Quendi nations we are aware of.”

Tar-Emerwen across from him, crossing her legs elegantly. "And we are eager to be friends with the Necrontyr as well. Though, I am somewhat interested in who the exception is?"

He smiled, “Well, I wouldn’t say exception as much as, a difficult group. The nation known as Thelas, a former protectorate of Menelmacar, has often proven to be very, difficult to deal with, for both ourselves and their former parent nation.”

Tar-Emerwen inclined her head. "I shall be certain to...take that into account in the future. What else would you wish to speak of with me?"

"Thank you," the ambassador inclined his head, again. "I hope we haven't been too much of a nuisance."

What else was there to say, besides good bye and hope to see you later at some function that won't result in a major embarrassment for the Kingdom.