NationStates Jolt Archive

A small fleet made its way to the Federated Klatchian Coast. The ship's were armed as minimally as possible to keep the idea of being a threat equally minimal, and they broadcasted the International Neutrality and Diplomatic Identifier Signal.

Decades ago, Tersanctus had sailed these waters with the intent of invasion and neutralization of what was then considered the rogue state, Dyelli Beybi.

Intelligence told a different story of them now, and they sailed here under an equally different story.

They stopped abruptly in International Waters, and sent an encrypted message to the FKC Parliament.

"Greetings to the Representatives of the Noble states, of the FKC. I am Executor Shijin Kotomari, of the Imperial Trisagion Empire of Tersanctus. I am requesting a safe passage and meeting with the Parliament. I await your reply."

Short and too the point. That was his personal style, and this was his way of saying, 'I'm here, now deal with me. Oh,also, Im not afraid.' Though it wasnt a bad thing if they accepted it. He went to his personal quarters to wait out the long, drawn-out process, realizing that should any other country have attempted this stunt, it would be a while before the bureaucrats calmed down, and got down to deciding what actually to do.

(OOC: Talk about NS fluid time, the war was only 2 years ago on the DB timeline, so you're going to bump into all the same characters...)

FKC Parliament was being monitored by the ever present Cheka, who recieved the signal and patched it back to Cyro for decoding. It didn't take them long to work out what it said, and it was concluded that this was odd to say the least. After triangulating the signal from several different stations, the Luftwaffe decided to put up a couple of MiGs to try to identify what had sent the message. Cloud cover over the Klatchian ocean meant a sattelite was out of the question.

OOC: Actually the fleet is in International Waters to avoid seeming like an attacking force, but hey, I like Spice!


The small fleet was maintaining its position, when the radar picked up some incoming aircraft. Kotomari was informed and he went to the deck with an Admiral.

"They're coming in fast. We have to make a decsion now! they may be wanting to fire upon our vessel, and we dont have time too get you too safety, My Lord!"

Shijin frowned. This guy was clearly a Warhawk, a bad choice for a diplomatic mission. But he was determined to get to the FKC Parliment, even if he had to doggy-paddle with a peice of driftwood.

"Tell the EWS's too be on Anti-Aircraft Defensive Standby, but do not activate any weaponry, I do not wish too put forth any aggressive overtones. Boost the International Neutrality and Diplomatic Identifier Signal, and rebroadcast the message un-encrypted this time. I wanted this to be as private as possible...but oh well."

"Yes, My Lord Emperor." the Admiral said, and barked out the orders.

The coming of the Tersanctian fleet was detected quite a ways off, but due to the force configuration was not deemed much of a threat. That is, until, their veered course and headed quite close to the Klatch. Too close, in fact.

One airbase within the corridor went to level 2 alert while a full group of bombers was being loaded with anti-ship missiles. Vrak did not trust Tersanctus, and while long ago their was hope to thaw relations with a certain economic pact, that unfortunately fell through. Now, with the memories of the ill-fated invasion still fresh in their minds, Vrak would respond much more...aggressively.

A Mainstay long-range recon aircraft thundered into the heavens, crossing over Dyelli Beybi and towards the Tersanctian fleet. On the ground, the Vrak Military High Command send a highly encrypted message to the Dyellian counterpart, asking for the best and full cooperation in regards to military response in this matter. That is, since Dyelli Beybi was closest and perhaps the quickest to respond, would they please be able to send out a ship or two to investigate? We, of course, will dispatch a guardian fleet from our closest base in Jiggady.

Meanwhile, the message was sent down to a team of analysts and archives plus the latest information on Tersanctus was dug up. The name "Shijin Kotomari" didn't ring any bells, at least not yet.

====

To: Executor Shijin Kotomari
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps

You are ordered to stand down any and all weaponry aboard you fleet. Any subsurface vessels are ordered to immediately rise and assume a non-threatening posture. Your request has been forwarded to the FKC Parliament for deliberation.

====

In Jiggady, the 9th Guardian Fleet pulled out of Blood Harbour and began to make their way towards the hostiles.

Hall of the Privy Council, Port Olympus

The Landgravine of Hubris, Outer Consul of the Federation (and the only current Full member at the moment) looked up as an aide handed her a peice of paper and then a false appature radar image.

"Who sent...well not the largest fleet I've seen in a while..."

"That taskforce is off our southern coast. The Dellyian have scrambled some MiG's and the Vrakians just went ballistic again, scrambled bombers and their 9th Guardian Fleet. This is what they told them..."

The Landgravine didn't even stop to ponder she started ordering aides about like war had just begun. "Call the President's Office tell him that we are getting intel on this new "Executor".

She looked at the next one, "Contact IIS, I know they've been monitoring things there for a while but I haven't seen an action report with them on it in months."

"Launch to UAV's to keep tabs on our guests...."

*****
To: All State Governments
Subject: Executor Shijin Kotomari
From:Landgravine Hubris, Outer Consul

At the present time we have no knowledge of who this individual is. However, we feel that at the present time we should take a cautious but welcoming view to this new Executor.

As such we ask that no hostile act be made towards them. We are going to allow them to come to port in Fasta outside of the JDF fleet base. Hopefully in the time it takes them to sail into Fasta we will have more intel available.

To: Vrakian Diplomatic Corps
From: Landgravine Hubris, Outer Consul
Subject: Previous Communication

We would be honored if you would inform the Executor that his fleet is welcome to take shelter in Fasta Harbor as guests of the Klatchian Federation while Parliament debates his request. Thank You.

(OOC: DB never thought it was an attacking fleet which is why they scrambled 2 MiGs and not a squadron of bombers.)

The Dyellian MiGs didn't seem interested in a fight either. They flew over the fleet, one of the pilots having the nerve to radio in a small segment of the inane babble that seemed to spout forth Dyellians at all the wrong moments, "What ho Tersanctus fleet, looking very pretty on the surface."

Close inspection by anyone in the Tersanctus fleet would reveal the planes were two fairly old MiG29s.

To: Executor Shijin Kotomari
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps

You have been cleared to dock at in Fasta Harbor as guests of the Klatchian Federation while Parliament debates your request.

====

The Vrakians did tend to overreact but, aside from the long range recon craft, no others have been launched in the air. Still, the bombers were ready to go. It wasn't always like this, of course, but with a few nasty historical incidents, the Vrakians are now much more wary of outsiders.

Shijin read the message with a smile. First the Vrakians were barking at them to stand down any submarines and what-have-you, then they were being invited. Not that he brought any in the first place.

As was to be expected, they probably had every nuclear silo in the Coast pointed at Sanctus...but I know these Vrakians, somehow...I almost feel as though I have been here before...perhaps I have...

He made his way to a small helicopter, and landed in a smaller ship, intending to dock with only the one ship, and embarked with the rest of the fleet left behind.

He noted with some amusement, that every Executor over the last Fifty years had either been too, or had some dealings with the Klatchians.

However this turned out, it would be interesting, and he couldnt help but chuckle to himself privately.

The city of Fasta was hard to see in the morning mists. What was obvious was that the small Tersanctus vessle was passing several naval ships as they passed towards the quay. Their shadowy masses were unmistakable, as well as the unique profile of a flat top. Only one was passed close enough for inspection, an Otto Class Battleship, the ARN Alexander II was flying full pendants and had an honor party assembled in the gray mist. The dark blue marines saluted as the Executor's ship sailed past.

As they neared the quay, the fog parted and revealed an assembled honor guard around a gangplank.

The honor guard consisted of two groups. One were Alconian Marines in their dark blue prussian style uniforms set with silver piping and red marking. Their white hats seemed oddly out of place on this gray morning.

Across the red carpet from them was a group in light blue uniforms with red berets. Standard uniforms of the Joint Defense Force. And at the end of the carpet was a group of men in green uniforms surounding a figure in dark blue. The flash of photographer's cameras could be made out, obviously the press were present for this event.

The Kriegsmarine were out in force as well. Ostensibly patrolling Klatchian waters, at least one Squadron of Scout Cruisers was close enough that on a fine day, the smoke from the funnels would be visible in the distance.

(OOC: Fasta is situated due North of two Dyelli Beybian controlled islands, while the Dyellian border is only a matter of maybe 40 miles to the East of the city. The prescence of Dyellian cruisers shouldn't be interpreted as overly agressive.)

OOC: Suuuuure Dyelli! Suuuure! :p A&H; dont worry bout the Status Quo Thread, Shijin is also speaking with an ambassador with Crownguard at the Present moment, that the beauty of fluid time, in DB's Timeline the attempted Invasion was two years ago he was telling me? In Tersanctan it was Thirty. Go Figure!

IC:

Shijin stood on the Deck of of the Watchguard II designed by Drakonian Engineers, sailed to honor his old friends.

As he passed the blue marines on the Alconan Ship, he bowed his respectfully, not expecting such a response. As he disembarked, and saluted the Ships Captain, with Four Templar Honor guard, at his side, he walked across the red carpet, choosing to don a dark suit, accompanied with a grey overcoat for the weather, rather then his Quasi Military Black Dress Uniform, this trip was all about image, and he did not intend too send a message of aggression in anyway, not even carrying Fate's Edge. The sword presented to him by Crownguard, an old and honorable friend.

As he made his way down, with his personal guard, a light flash lit up his somewhat somber face.

He stopped in front of the person in dark blue, who seemed to be in charge.

He then smiled warmly.

"I am the Executor of the United Empire and Dominion of Tersanctus and Drakonia; Shijin Kotomari. I come to an old enemy, to beg forgiveness, and reclaim my peoples honor. You in turn have honored me, by allowing such a meeting to have taken place. May fortune smile upon you all."

He said regally, as he extended his hand.

Queen Lerathen tilted her head slightly as Foreign Minister Salinas explained the situation to her. Ever since Liebermonk had its lands moved by a fleet of military-grade helicoptors to the Federated Klatchian Coast, Queen Lerathen had come to learn quite a few new international leaders. Salinas attempted to relate to her the history between Tersanctus and the Federated Klatchian Coast, but it was cleaer that not even he understood the whole situation. Either way, Lerathen was looking forward to learning a lot about this former enemy of the Federated Klatchian Coast.
"Salinas, I want you to go to the city of Fasta. Be part of the welcoming committe. Perhaps a new face in this situation could help resolves some old wrongs between the groups involved. Oh, and just for safety's sake, take your entire Special Guard with you. Don't worry about the costs. Hostile feelings may still exist."

To Tersanctus:

The nation of Liebermonk would like to extend a welcoming arm to Tersanctus and its Executor Shijin Kotomari. May our new presence bring new light to the situation so that a peaceful and honorable solution may be found. The Liebermonkian lands shall remain a neutral meeting ground if need be in these meetings, in the case that neutrality cannot be established in another of the nations. I am sending my Foreign Minister Jacob Salinas to meet with you. I am sure that he will help progress occur. Thank you.
- Queen Lerathen, Liebermonk

OOC: I meant the JDF shouldn't be overly alarmed...

(More worried that you thought we had abandoned this thread...)

As the Executor passed, the Alconian Marine Captain called out, "Present Honors!" And the Marines presented their sword bayonetts with almost flawless precision. With out a sound, the well oiled blades came out of their scabbards as one and up to the marine's faces. The flat of the blades against the face, almost touching the nose, and the tips of each blade a centimeter below their cap visors. The hands gripping their black automatic rifles didn't seem to stir.

The woman at the end of the carpet watched the display with an anylitical pair of green eyes Good Job guys...its nice to see daddy's boys and girls aren't going to rot out here The attractive blond refocued her eyes on Shijin as he approached.

She wore an identical blue uniform to the marines, but with black collar tabs and markings rather than the marines red. Her rank insignia was one silver cross next to a rampant gold griffen.

Behind her to the left was a woman dressed in white, the only insignia was a crest over her heart. Her gray eyes searched the faces of the Templar without expression, keeping her hands behind her and away from the hilt of the long sword she had belted around her large frame.

The woman in blue's eyes were steady as she returned the handshake and gave a short bow at the same time. Years of practice allowed her to pull it off gracefully. Her manner and demenor showed someone who had been born and raised with power. Not arrogance, but confidence that she would likely never meet anyone superior to her.

"Executor Shijin Kotomari, I, Markgravine Both (prononced ba aw th) welcome you on behalf of the Klatchian Privy Council to the Klatchian Federation and the Protectorate of Fasta. I am here as the Emmissary of the Klatchian Privy Council, may I present some of the distinquised guests who have come here to meet you, Foreign Minister of Liebermonk Jacob Salinas..." She turned to the first person standing next to her in the group of dignitaries and began to introduce them.

(I'm going to say let represenatives be present if you want them to be...but I'm going to keep this thread moving so please keep your intro's short.)

After the introductions of the dignitaries, the Markgravine nodded and returned her gaze to the Executor. "On behalf of the Klatchian Privy Council I have been asked to invite you to stay in Port Olympus. I am afraid that you caught us at an akward moment. The Klatchian Parliament was discussing some matters of grave importance and decided they wanted a fourty-eight hour reccess before they made their final decision. As such, Parliament shall not reconveine for another thirty hours."

(Elizabeth Crawford, Markgravine of Both (http://www.eng.auburn.edu/users/donatgw/eliza.jpg))

Executor Kotomari nodded; and smiled warmly at the FKC Reps (all of them) with An Honor too meet you clearly spoken through his body language.

"-- As such, Parliament shall not reconveine for another thirty hours." said Markgravine Both.

Chuckling almost slightly, Shijin responded. "I believe under the circumstances of my arrival; you have already been more then generous. This meeting has been a long time coming, what is another day or two?"

A bit taken aback by her beauty, Shijin did stare at her a half-second longer then what would be deemed diplomatic, but regained his composure nonetheless, he was still relatively new too being an Emperor, but filled the mold perfectly.

"We shall depart for our lodgings, whenever you see fit, if there is any business you require us to attend to in the meantime,you have but too ask."

Markgravine Both nodded. "I am to be your escort to Port Olympus. As such my father has allowed me the use of some of the family aircraft to transport us north." The sweep of the hand indicated the entire diplomatic group.

Obviously what the Markgravine wasn't saying was that to ensure the Executor's safe passage they were having her travel north with him. Only a foolish nation would start a war with the Empire and a Klatchian Civil War at the same moment in time.

"At present we are ready to transport you and your staff to the airbase. It this the entire security staff you will be bringing with you?" She attempted to ask the question polietly. Really, what did he do...wake up one morning and decide to drop by the Federation...no pre-planning or anything? She mused for a moment.

"Also I am sure the press would like to have a few words from you. Although right now they are very focused on me..." As she finished the statement her eyes leveled at the press. Her mouth seemed to form a slight half-frown. As though she really wasn't looking forward to dealing with the press this morning.

He nodded.

"Four Templar, are far more then enough for my personal protection. These are men whom have proved their worth in combat, and extreme situations, a thousand times over."

Shijin looked upon the press members.

"Well, I suppose I could answer a few questions."

The Markgravine did her best to hide a smile. Retoric isn't my strong suit...but that was quite an intresting statement

"Well no reason to give them anything at the moment unless you want to. But they will be shouting out questions as we go to the car."

She turned and indicated that they should walk past the press to a group of cars waiting in line just beyond.

As the Markgravine and Executor passed the ropped off reporters questions were yelled through the heavy morning air. From somewhere a small figure appeared and whispered in her ear. The Markgravine shook her head, the figure gestured wildly, and then she nodded before stopping.

Elizabeth turned to the Executor, "Sorry the Press has become quite insistant about getting some statements" She turned and spoke not loudly, but actually projecting her voice across the Press Corps, "I will answer a few questions at this time...please..."

The men and women of the Press exploded asking questions rapidly as they could.

P:Markgravine, how do you feel being sent on a diplomatic mission right after someone tried to kill you...

"Duty gentlemen is the call of all Alconians, the House of Crawford is no diffrent."

P:Markgravine...do you think the Neo_Tyrians are to blame for the attack?

"I will allow the Klatchian Marshals to answer that question..."

P: Executor Kotomari why do you want to speak to the Klatchian Parliament?

P: Markgravine Both...are you having an affair with General O'Booze...

The noblewoman just blinked and then answered "Next question."

P: Executor Kotomari who are you?

P: Executor Kotomari do you feel safe being near a woman almost killed twenty-four hours ago...

P:Markgravine Both what are your views on the impending resignation of the Inner Consul at its affects on international policy?

"Obviously international policy will change. However I can only see improvements in areas of national defense that have been hampered by the absente rate of the Chariman and Inner Consul. Obviously changes had to be made, and the United Duches considers Durakians to be a fine State of the Federation. It is just that the internal difficulties of that state have happered their officers presence in Port Olympus."

P: Markgravine Both do you have any comment on the huge reward that is being offered for your assailant?

"No"

P:Executor Kotomari, what are your views on the Neo_Tyrian issue?...are you here to pressure a Klatchian withdrawl?

P: Markgravine Both are the secret rumors that you are gay true?

"Thank You, we don't have time for anymore questions." Her voice almost cracked like a cold steel whip on the last question. The green eyes seemed to be getting darker, colder, daring the members of the Press to defy her and unleash her wrath.

As the Press became quiet, not wanting to be at the receiving end of the legendary Crawford temper, she turned and continued to the waiting limos.

As the dignitaries and guards were divided up between the transports, the Markgravine entered the first limo. she laid her head against the head rest and commented dryly to the cealing, "Just because I can't find a decent man who can deal with someone of my....stature...even Dad has given up on me."

Shijin looked upon the crowd as Elizabeth seemed to criss-cross back and forth between the entourage and press.

He stood with her as the reporters fired the questions.

P: Executor Kotomari why do you want to speak to the Klatchian Parliament?

"I will reveal that, when I am before them."

P: Executor Kotomari who are you?

He smiled. "Executor Kotomari." he replied.


P: Executor Kotomari do you feel safe being near a woman almost killed twenty-four hours ago...

"As safe as anyplace in an old enemies land, though I hope too change some of that while I am here."

P:Executor Kotomari, what are your views on the Neo_Tyrian issue?...are you here to pressure a Klatchian withdrawl?

"The best I could say is...who are the Neo_Tyrians? And good luck convincing a Walrus to do anything he does not wish too."

With Crawfords angry ending of the Conference Shijin walked with her to the entourage......

OOC:....Leaving the question was he in the limo with Elizabeth? Im guessing not as she seems highly self-controlled, and would likely not say such a thing in front of the unexpected guest.

(OOC: Actually I was planning on her saying it then realize that you were entering the same limo. The Crawford girls tend to loose a bit of self control when their tempers are flaring. Hell Elizabeth has gotten into shouting matches with foreign heads of state she was dating in public. She has matured a bit, when she was younger there might have been bloodshed.)

Elizabeth shot back up strait when she felt the weight of the car shift again as the Executor was escorted into the first limo.

If she was embarrased, or had any other musings she clamped down on them and presented an unflustered appearence. Damn, Damn, Damn... raced through her head.

As they both sat in the limo, the silence filled the space between the seats. "Well Executor, you seem to have developed quite a skill for dealing with the Press. Personally my abilities in that area are a bit weak..." She looked out the window as the limo began to move, "My sister is far better at it than me. Although practice does make perfect as they say. Have you much experience dealing with the Press?" Who is Executor Kotomari? She returned her gaze to the Executor as she asked the question.

Shijin returned her gaze, the grey sky shining down what little light it did through the darkened windows of the limo.

"That was my second time in front of them; since my announcement of accepting the Executorship from the Imperial Senate. My name, 'Shijin' translated from Japanese, means 'Poet'. Perhaps that may explain my ability with....diplomacy." he said quietly.

Sensing she wanted to fill the silence, he looked out of the window seeming to enter a strange state.

"But people like you and me know what the true purpose of diplomacy is, Conquerors often come with words of welcome, before inhumane acts are brought. One hand offers peace, and brotherhood, whilst the other holds a dagger behind the back."

He then looked at her, blinking twice before continuing.

"Only sincerity can move the human heart. Power may be taken, but respect and trust, must be earned. Once before, Tersanctus sailed to war to these shores, which makes my task here, monumental in nature. Though my people are not without there greivances towards the Klatch...."he intimated Nekoa Bay, but knew that both sides were fed up with that collosal flop, thusly said nothing in its regard.

"But the time for bygones to be bygones has come. I am about Tersanctus' Future, not her past."

Elizabeth watched him with thought, He's quite odd really, well for a world leader. Strange, almost...Until philosophers are kings
"The nature of Power is such that many a soul finds itself addicted to it, and like any addict, desires more to quench their increasing thirst. How to make the powerful not become addicted to their power has been the task of man since the dawn of civilization."

She humphed a bit at that. "I understand a great deal about your feelings towards the Klatch." After all she had been at Nekoa Bay (Although she looked about twenty eight)
"But your mission here is veiled in mystery and yourself an enigma. Many in the Klatch don't worry about you having a dagger in the other hand, but the four horsemen themselves with Chaos along for the ride."

She shook her head, "All of this because of elves and Orcs..."

Shijin raised an eyebrow.

"The elves part I understand....but..the orcs?" he said questioningly.

"Did Arda have something to do with our old hostilities? Or am I simply misunderstanding your comment?"

"But yes...I can understand the Klatch's fear. They are not unfounded, why would an Empire choose peace? Make no mistake, I will not weaken Tersanctus with overtures of peace-loving hippies.." he joked. "...but the mystery and the enigma that is my purpose here is quite simple. Honor."

He looked deep into Elizabeths eyes, his glance stern and soft at the same time.

"What Christopher Dantes did,..was wrong. Though the Drakonians under my rule still hold a hatred to Dyelli Beybi for what happened to them, I understand that it was the Tzar, just as I was not the one who invaded; or tried too invade, rather, Dyelli Beybi, Whomever runs DB now did not authorize the Nuclear Strike....revenge can never bring about redemption."

"Though the action can be tied to but a few individual's choices, the nation, the people must suffer the image afterwards. I understand this, but I hope that this trip, can begin a change or the better. On both sides."

He calmed a little.

"Besides, I believe that Edmund Dantes, tried his best to make peace for all, thier are rumours that he alone had even earned the Klatch's respect. I dont know what the accuracy of those claims are, but he is remembered as "The Last Great Executor" while his son, is thought of as little more then a Psychotic, who wasted Tersanctan life, for his own bloodthirst."

Deciding to lighten the mood a little, he decided to tease her a bit.

"So...you cant find a man to deal with a woman of your standing?" he said bluntly with a big childish smile, staring at her with a particular mischeiviousness in his eyes.

((OOC: Feel free to respond to each phrase individually, just had the jiuces flowing on this one!.))

Shijin raised an eyebrow.

"The elves part I understand....but..the orcs?" he said questioningly.
"Did Arda have something to do with our old hostilities? Or am I simply misunderstanding your comment?"



"The Menclamari (sp) elves demanded sentiant rights. But the Var would never allow orcs to be considered anything other than a semi-intelligent form of food. It was one of the major impasses between the UE and the Federation. The problem is that the Federation didn't want to gain the ire of Arda so wouldn't explain their postion, and the UE was a bit blind to what the Gonad Elves truly are and kept up their demands." She turned her to look out the window at the saluting guard and returned it.


"But yes...I can understand the Klatch's fear. They are not unfounded, why would an Empire choose peace? Make no mistake, I will not weaken Tersanctus with overtures of peace-loving hippies.." he joked. "...but the mystery and the enigma that is my purpose here is quite simple. Honor."

I've never meet an honorable man who needed to hide his intentions from other honrable souls. But then perhaps you need to hide them from your allies and not your enemies Or perhaps you do not see us as honrable


"Though the action can be tied to but a few individual's choices, the nation, the people must suffer the image afterwards. I understand this, but I hope that this trip, can begin a change or the better. On both sides."


"Time will only tell on that point. Although Alconians consider turning enemies into allies a worthy task."

Which was true. The Alconians and Hubarians had been at war for over two centuries before the Restoration and then the Unification. The fact that the Alconians had rebuilt the crushed Hubarian economy, and integrated Hubarians into the socio-political structure of the country was usually ignored by the outside world. Of course the Dual Duchies, then the United Duches hadn't grown in power until after formal Unification and the joining of the Federation.


"Besides, I believe that Edmund Dantes, tried his best to make peace for all, thier are rumours that he alone had even earned the Klatch's respect. I dont know what the accuracy of those claims are, but he is remembered as "The Last Great Executor" while his son, is thought of as little more then a Psychotic, who wasted Tersanctan life, for his own bloodthirst."


"Both King Vrak and my sister met the elder and younger Dantes. It is a cautionary tale of why one must spend the time to properly educate your children in how to deal with Power and Responsiblity. Perhaps Edmund's greatest failure was that he did not teach his son." She seemed to be trying to search him on this. The question of Who is Executor Kotomari? still nagged at the back of her head.


"So...you cant find a man to deal with a woman of your standing?"


The limo slowed down as they neared the waiting Saab 2000s (yes aircraft) Her eyes became a bit mischevious at that as she opened the door. "Ah, you overheard me..." Her eyes became icy cold for a moment,
"My elder sister left a mess and I seem to only get offers from men who's only assets are over inflated ego and Viagra." She stood outside the door for a moment as she finished her sentance.

"I could ask you if your applying for the position, but a girl who worked as an intern in your office and then was deported has recently sold a quite shocking story involving late night antics with some guards."

She started walking for the plane, almost a quick march step, "I don't know what made her get on your bad side Executor..."

She walked up the gangway into the jet and turned, "but lesson one, never ever kick a spurned woman into another country, stick them in the intelligence archives, much safer place for them."

OOC: that last part was based on my memory of the 'Monica' event in one of your recent threads.

OOC: So Sorry on the last month and a half....Im willing to pick up where we left off if you are. This time...my connection is secured. MY OWN PC!! Woo hoo! And the Monica thingy was just sorta a joke. Humor is one of my trademarks.

IC:

Shijin laughed at the Monica comment.

"Yes,...it would have been a wiser move perhaps. But she....acted inappropriately to one of her standing. An intern in the Executors Office, must act with the utmost proffessionalism. Had she done what she did Five hundred years ago, she would have been likely beaten too death, and her corpse down the street, and that would have been the lenient punishment. But worry not, my people may have a troubled past, but we evolved from those barbaric times long ago."

"As for myself applying....I dont think I know you well enough to even begin to explore that path..." he said almost teasingly, as though leaving a "but" out at the end of the sentence.

((I can only assume that the Honor part was her thoughts, and not spoken.)

"As for Edmund and Christopher Dantes..Edmund was killed, before Christopher was born. Many suspect that his feelings of abandonment is what caused his bloodlust. Noone can say for sure, hes been dead for thirty years."

"As for Edmund, perhaps you do not know the story. Perhaps you have heard of ICEP? The International Consortium of Economic Powers, the brainchild truly of AMF,started originally as UCEP, but carried on in his honor during a brief period of isolation. Edmund invited many powerful nations, including Vrak, to join. And many...including Melkor, did." he paused, remembering the dark history, that sent Tersanctus into the black days its was now recovering from.

"But as many things, it was not what it seemed. In reality, many of the applying nations, were part of Melkors extended alliance. It was a conspiracy too take over a potentially powerful Economic alliance, another asset in the Dark Empire. But his plot was soon revealed by a secret ally, whom too this day is still classified by my government. And Edmund openly accused and Charged Alkanphel, Melkors representative at the Conference, and the co-conspirators." he laughed slightly to himself.

"Suffice too say, Alkaphel did not take kindly too the accusation. And a great battle ensued. You see. Edmund the man,....was much more than a man..at least according to the Kungshaoists...they say, he was the incarnate, of the Great Dragon-God; Kungshao. I dont know if its true, it was decades ago. But as the story goes, Edmund weilded tremendous power. Rivaling even that of the Godling Alkanphel. But though they battled for hours, dark sorcery and dragons fire clashing in an epic battle that left the entire four cities plaza in heaps and ruins, it was not to be destined in Emdunds Favor." he quieted suddenly. Almost seeming to remember the story as though he were there himself.

"So you see. Edmund died for Honor, and for Country. There was nothing selfish about his actions. He may have died not knowing that his Wife, Alyssa Drake Dantes, was pregnant. So too hold Edmund responsible for Chris is in error. Though I do beleive, had Edmund survived, Christopher Drake Dantes, would have been a great man, A ruler who would have been remebered for thousands of years for honor and nobility." he stopped grimly.

"But it would seem that the Dantes Line, was cursed..."

He entered the plane, and sat down opposite from her, his eyes hiding a great sadness, though not very well.

OOC: Holy smokes! Welcome back Tersanctus.

OOC: Holy smokes! Welcome back Tersanctus.

OOC: Thank you. I realize I seem to be jumping off the map time and time again. But this time, the lord willing should be a permanent stay. Provided the bubblegum and toothpicks hold up!

The Markgravine sat down in her seat. "The question becomes then how could you be the new Executor if you don't have any Dante blood? It does seem strange to me, or are you a distant cousin, decended from Edmund's grandfather perhaps?"

She kept on glancing towards the guard standing in the doorway of the aircraft waiting.

Shijin looked at her strangley. Noone up until now had guessed that. None else even questioned his Executorship.

"Perhaps you have heard of Anthony Bertch? He was the interim Executor, after Christopher Dantes was killed. This has been classified for thirty years, but I will share the story with you now. The Imperial Senate, fearing that Chris would lead us into destruction. Actually authorized his assassination. The same sword that killed his father, in the battle with Alkanphel, was used to sever his head while he slept." Shijin said Grimly.

"I know that isnt a pretty story, but its true. The point is, one doesnt neccessarily have to be of the Dantes bloodline, to be the Executor. Those whom are worthy, can be chosen by the Senate." Shijin said.

He noticed her looking at the guard, and became apprehensive.

"What is wrong?" he asked her.

Shijin looked at her strangley. Noone up until now had guessed that. None else even questioned his Executorship.

"Perhaps you have heard of Anthony Bertch? He was the interim Executor, after Christopher Dantes was killed. This has been classified for thirty years, but I will share the story with you now. The Imperial Senate, fearing that Chris would lead us into destruction. Actually authorized his assassination. The same sword that killed his father, in the battle with Alkanphel, was used to sever his head while he slept." Shijin said Grimly.

"I know that isnt a pretty story, but its true. The point is, one doesnt neccessarily have to be of the Dantes bloodline, to be the Executor. Those whom are worthy, can be chosen by the Senate." Shijin said.

He noticed her looking at the guard, and became apprehensive.

"What is wrong?" he asked her.

The guard turned at nodded to her as he began to shut the door of the aircraft. Elizabeth just chuckled, "Nothing is wrong. I was just waiting for Simon to tell me when all the other dignitaries were aboard the second aircraft." The easy gesture of her hand indicated that the royal guard was Simon. As the door finished closing the slight thump of the plane starting to move could be felt.

"Now back to what we were discussing. The Senate decides who rules? That sounds fair. Both the United Duchies and the Federation have similar systems. The Federation President is elected by the Electors." Elizabeth looked about the cabin for a moment while still talking.

"The United Duchies is a bit more...complicated. In breif, there are three hereditary votes for determining the Duke of Alcona...my family has controlled two votes since the middle of the 17th century, which made the Duchy effectively a hereditary monarchy."

A man appeared from the front of the aircraft. He wore a white coat with a small gold and blue crest above the heart. "May I inquire if either of you would like some refreshments after take-off?"

Shijin relaxed, and chuckled a bit.

"Sorry. You never know what will happen on these trips. Please dont take it as a sign of mistrust....or at least not complete mistrust, The truth is I am as wary of you, as you are of me. I have'nt been as open as one usually should be on a diplomatic mission. Perhaps I was simply projecting..." he trailed off.

"But no matter, Yes, the Senate, when bloodlines are cut off, may decide who is imbued with the Executorship, otherwise it is usually a Hereditary Monarchy Positon, allowing a single person to look beyond internal politics and special interest groups to do what is best for the nation. It is a symphony of democracy, monarchy, and beauracracy. Not the best governmental system in the world, but it has served us well, we are largley capitalist, without being ruled by corporations. We have several socialized systems, including Health Care, Retirement Benefits, without a imploded Economy, and we have me pretty much running the show, without tyranny and despotism ruling everthing, a system of checks and balances, that affords each Tersanctan Citizen with low Political Freedom, but massive civil rights, we despise so-called 'Big-Brother' systems, and each citizen is permitted to make his saftey, his own responsibilty. We understand that this may allow terrorism to a small degree, but each and every citizen understands that this is the price they pay for such a large amount of freedom."

The Markgravine nodded. "I would like a sherry please Blathus." She sat quietly for a moment. "Truthfully one can not have the power to make decisions without the responsibilty for those actions. Or that is how I've always been taught. To have freedom one must be willing to meet the social and personal demands that freedom entails. Of course there are many nations that think either they should be in absolute control, or that the people should live freely without any responsiblity. As a member of royalty I find both of those idiotic postions."

She laughed slightly, "Of course my name sake, Elizabeth the First, Duchess of Alcona told James II of England that 'Any monarch who thinks he rules by divine right without the will of the people, is either a fool, a dreamer, or a Stewart. And we all know Stewart Princes have lost their heads more times than any other monarchy in the past three centuries.' Of course James didn't sit on the throne much after that either if I recall correctly."

Elizabeth turned her head slightly. "You must know that almost all recently created monarchies have some royal blood in their veins? Which begs the question if you happen to be my cousin in some way?"

Shijin cocked his head quizically.

"I would dought it....I have no Royal Anscestry. I am a Japanese-Tersanctan Citizen, whom served in the Imperial Trisagion Military....but that is as far as my lineage goes...I suppose I am simply.....deemed worthy by those in power."

He then said "And I would hate to think that we are blood, that would deny so many possiblities."

Shijin cocked his head quizically.

"I would dought it....I have no Royal Anscestry. I am a Japanese-Tersanctan Citizen, whom served in the Imperial Trisagion Military....but that is as far as my lineage goes...I suppose I am simply.....deemed worthy by those in power."

He then said "And I would hate to think that we are blood, that would deny so many possiblities."

Elizabeth raised an eyebrow. "Ah just a whiff of grapeshot hmm? Well I think you should realize that royalty tends to look at the word cousin a bit more brodly than most. Although a good deal of my distant relatives have had an inbreeding problem."

The jet began to accelerate as it began it's take off. A moment later the plane was banking.

Elizabeth continued, "And what possiblities would that preclude? I mean even some Presidents were known to marry their own cousins. If I recall correctly the second Rosevelt of the United States married the neice of the first one. Hell, I think they even had the same last name before the marriage."

Shijin laughed aloud.

"Elizabeth, you are marvelous company!" he said.

"As for the possibilities.....perhaps we could discuss them at another time...that would be more appropriate"

OOC: Finally found a pic that does Shijin Justice.



http://invisionfree.com/forums/United_Emirates/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=1103857

"Well thank you...The last nation's ruler I had any...private time with decided to call me and my family mass murders. I was not amused."

Elizabeth smiled a bit. As the steward came forward with her sherry. "Are you sure you don't want anything your grace?" He asked after delivering her drink.

"Yes..I will try Sherry as well. I am not much of a drinker, but will drink too celebrate new begginings." Shijn smiled.

"As for the comments I am much more analytical of ones actions. I do not know your families history, therefore I reserve judgement."

"But please, let us speak of more pleasant things... I do not wish to be in darkened spirits when the talks commence!"

The steward nodded.

Elizabeth just shook her head. "Neither did he really...just a bunch of rumors and some previous statements taken far out of context. I must say it is pleasent to have a conversation with someone who doesn't have their decisions already made before the conversation."

The steward returned with the small glass about the size of two shot glasses containing the sherry. It was sweet, heavy drink with a slightly nutty twang. And the dense flavors hid the high alchol content. Of course Elizabeth was only sipping at her drink.

Elizabeth raised her glass. "Shall we make a toast to new beginings then?"

"A Toast!" Shijin declared, raising his glass with Elizabeths.

He took a sip at roughly the same time she did.

"AAAhing" after he took the sip, he complimented her on its flavor.

"So there is one thing I would like to know Elizabeth, forgive me for calling you that, by the way, If you prefer I address you as Ms Both or something else, please tell me. But would I would like to know is. After decades of silence between our respective nations. And my....suprise visit, lets call it. What is your impression of all this?"

"A Toast!" Shijin declared, raising his glass with Elizabeths.

He took a sip at roughly the same time she did.

"AAAhing" after he took the sip, he complimented her on its flavor.

"So there is one thing I would like to know Elizabeth, forgive me for calling you that, by the way, If you prefer I address you as Ms Both or something else, please tell me. But would I would like to know is. After decades of silence between our respective nations. And my....suprise visit, lets call it. What is your impression of all this?"

"I think Elizabeth works fine, but for future refrence you should not call a Markgravine Miss anything. It is a noble title roughly translated to Countess of the March, calling me Miss Both would be a normally deadly insult."

She sipped at her sherry again. "I am not sure what to make of this myself. I am an Alconian, likely the most paranoid race on the face of this planet. So we prepare for war and hope for peace. I get to play the the Dove, my sister is the hawk at the moment."

"Im aware of the Origins of the Title Markgravine. Germanic, I beleive, essentially a Person in charge of a Great Deal of Land, similar to the English Feudal System's Knight. Though Implications and responsibilities might change from here to there."

"Though from what I hear of you, if your the Dove,...then this Hawk must be something to behold." Shijin remarked.

"Im aware of the Origins of the Title Markgravine. Germanic, I beleive, essentially a Person in charge of a Great Deal of Land, similar to the English Feudal System's Knight. Though Implications and responsibilities might change from here to there."

"Though from what I hear of you, if your the Dove,...then this Hawk must be something to behold." Shijin remarked.

"No actually equivilant more to Marquess, an over powerful Earl...well post Conquest actually. A March was actually considered a border area under dispute...so Marcher Lords as they were sometimes refered to tended to have more ability to raise armies and garrison castles which usually both refered to more power and more wealth." She shrugged,

"A bit esoteric in anycase. But then I wouldn't want you insulting a Knight by saying it was hereditary title or a Peer by thinking that they were equivilant to a Knight...I think it was Otto I that made the title of Markgrave non-hereditary in the United Duchies. In the United Duchies it is the title of a military govenor of an area not quite yet completely settled. Both is fairly civilized along the shore but dense jungle about sixty miles inland. With a very nasty native population living even deeper. So I spend my time usually dealing with localized raids and breaking up well armed groups of natives who have become too much of a bother to tolerate any longer. It doesn't help that the three states bordering the Both all collapsed. It has just dropped advanced weapons into the hands of canabalistic savages."
She shook her head, going through a mental list of casualties on both sides.

The last comment drew her attention, and her ire. "The Hawk has been my constant irritation since I was five. My problem is that I am the spare as they say and she is the heir. Mav...I mean Landgravine Hubris, my sister is currently the Outer Consul of the Federation, which makes her the one in defacto control of the Federation military."

Her tone became less strident, "Well she is my sister, and I love her...but growing up in her shadow was no picnic. I guess Thomas had it the worst, our younger brother. He was constantly getting into trouble." She just shook her head for a moment and became quiet.

Shijin listened compassionately, looking at her with saddened eyes.

He reached accross the seats and touched the top of her hand.

"Please. Tell me of Thomas, if it does not pain you too much." he said.

She looked at him with a weird look. "Thomas was the youngest, and a bit of a playboy really. Fast cars, not really fast women. Although his first choice for a bride turned out to be dozey. About five years after they broke up, she attempted a coup to overthrow us."

Elizabeth shook her head, "Really he was quite sweet at times, but then...well what happened is a state secret. But his son just recently wed the Queen of New Shiron not a bad girl to have as a neice. Of course it is a bit weird her being somewhat near my age."