NationStates Jolt Archive

Adrian Sterling is taken back for a moment, standing still as he watches Friedelinde Alderman continue her leisurely stroll through the gardens that compromise the Palace grounds. The Empress of the Valinor turns briefly to contemplate Adrian's sudden immobility, and smiles enigmatically as she continues to play adsently with the iris flower she had picked earlier.

"I take it this was not how you expected our conversation will end, Adrian?"

Sterling bows his head, ashamed for his brief lapse in decorum, "No, Your Majesty, I am afraid that you did catch me off guard to say the very least. May I ask why you wish to open dialogue with the Dominion of the Dread Lady so suddenly."

"The past actions of my half-brother continues to cast a long shadow over our relations in the Sol System, especially with the Triumvirate of Yut members. Even our long-standing relationship with Sunset has suffered from his indiscretions. And although I applaud your recent actions to establish relations with them via a consulate on Valhalla, I feel that more needs to be done. Especially to try and repair our image among the Triumvirate's most senior members, I need to show them that I am not my half-brother and that the madness and stupidity of Gustav II truly has passed onto the ash heap of history. Not to mention the fact that our close relations with Mangala do require us to work to decrease the strain they will experience by maintaining relations with ourselves and the Triumvirate. Plus, improved relations with Lady Nathicana's realm will undoubtedly prove to have certain long-term benefits if we show her that we are sincere in our intent."

"The Non-Democratic Alliance..." Sterling says with only a small measure of uncertainty in his voice.

"Very much in the periphery at this point, Adrian, but that is certainly a possibility. However, the dreams of my grandfather to bind Valinon more closely with the interstellar community will never be reached if we continue to merely focus on Mars. Besides, the actions and inaction of many Martian nations continues to prove to be an eternal problem. Although we cannot withdraw from that world now, I think it may be wise to consider a shift in policy."

"I shall of course contact the Dominion at once."

"No," says Friedelinde, hands delicately caressing the flower petals. "No, Adrian, I think this is a matter that I must attend to initially. It was and Alderman that created this faux pas and it must be an Alderman that makes the first step. I will take care of the first order of this business myself. I merely wanted to make you aware of this as it does fall within your realm of administration."

"I appreciate that, Your Majesty,"

"I know," Friedelinde says. Then turns to look past Adrian's shoulder. "I do believe the Lords will resume their business in short order, Adrian. Lord Ribbentrop will see you make it to the Imperial Congressional Building with time to spare."

The aged, long-time servant to House Alderman approaches with his carefully modulated gate from where he had been standing a respective distance from the Empress and her Minister for Foreign Affairs. Adrian bows and then moves to leave.

**********

Sent by the fastest Mangalan courier available, a cream colored envelope bearing the ornate lion crest of House Alderman impressed in wax as its seal makes its way to the Dominion. Underneath the sword-wielding lion and brilliant sunburst of the Aldermans is a bold line of German script Die eine Oberste Aufgabe soll sich schützen (The one supreme duty is to protect). Except for the seal, and the diplomatic pouch bearing the symbolism and key marks of the United Star Empire, the envelope is left untouched except for the words "For the Review of the Dread Lady of the Dominion" in a flowing and fine script.



Lady Imperatrice Nathicana D’Aquisto of the Dominion,

I anticipate that any communication to your realm from the United Star Empire is one that is dealt with a mixture of contempt and dismissal. And I also realize that my own nation's chance at a first impression has also passed. However, I also hope to work to correct such errors.

I cannot excuse or erase the actions undertaken and condoned by my half-brother, Emperor Gustav Alderman II; his sister, Princess Josephine; or their supporters in the military and the Congress of Lords. I cannot deny the fact that it was foolish for the Star Empire to place its fate in the hands of the self-proclaimed "Lion Emperor" and then be surprised by the inevitable outcome. I cannot deny the accusations that the Star Empire has dealt with many nations in an arrogant and high-handed manner in good faith. But I can offer accountability and admit that these were grevious errors.

My grandfather, Emperor Gustav Alderman I, said that to deny one's history, even undesirable history, is foolish and he was very wise to say such. I cannot deny the history that is the legacy of Gustav II's reign, and I cannot act as if they never happened. They are part of the Star Empire now, for better or for worse.

However, my grandfather also had another dream to bring Valinon into accepting the rest of the interstellar community and embracing a more open-minded role in international affairs. Under his reign this pursuit and this idea were the most basic principles of the Star Empire's foreign policy. Sadly after his death these ideas were all to quickly forgotten for the momentary sensation of sweeping gain. The price that both Valinon and I must pay for this is one that has not yet fully been measured, but I wish to take steps to actively rectify this.

It is my belief, Dread Lady D’Aquisto, that if allowed to demonstrate that we can do better and do have higher intentions than we did under my half-brothers flawed endeavors the Star Empire may be allowed to begin an improved relation with your realm. I would ask that you allow me to the chance to show that Valinon has changed since our nations last encountered and if necessary show that Valinon is willing to accept the judgements created by our last, brash actions. I will no longer seek to escape the price of the actions of my forebearers, that is an inexcusable dishonor worthy of the same contempt as their war crimes.

With respects and regards,
Friedelinde Alderman,
Empress of the United Star Empire

The raven-haired woman sat at her desk, thoughtfully turning over the envelope in her hands, her brow creased in a tiny frown. This was ... unexpected to say the least. And she wasn't entirely sure that the reasons offered in the letter contained within were in fact the whole truth of the matter.

There had been only one incident wherein the Dominion had interacted with Valinon, and it had left a bad taste in their mouths. Alighieri had been livid. Even the usually calm Torino had been furious when the entirety of the conversation had been relayed for the Ministry to review. It was one thing to be rude. It was entirely another matter to get outright insulting of their nation, their honor, and their culture, especially when those they were there to support were supposedly allies of Valinon as well.

The captains and crew of the ships involved had been commended for their performance of course, both for how they carried themselves, and for doing their jobs properly without creating an uneccessary international incident in an already touchy situation. Of course, a bit more personal touch was needed, she had felt, due to the penchant Dominion natives had for holding grudges and needing feathers smoothed.

What was interesting about the situation as well was the timing and method of this contact. The perfect opportunity for reconcilliation would have been the now distant coronation, where such transgressions could be dismissed merely for the asking, as tradition held. There had been hundreds of pardons given that week, some serious, some less so. A dozen or more personal slights swept away and forgiven with a chaste embrace and light kiss on both cheeks.

The initial message was presumptuous - something that didn't sit well with Nathicana, and was a reminder that the arrogance displayed in that initial meeting was more than simply a terse captain having a bad day. It seemed it was indeed a cultural indicator. Granted, the Domionion was no exception to that rule. It was commonly understood among natives that they were on certain levels inherently 'better' than many other cultures. The difference was that the Dominion had the class and style not to constantly rub that fact in others faces.Which of course, was one of the reasons why they felt they were better.

However, there was a concillatory message there, and that could not be ignored. And a showing of accountability, which illustrated more honor than she might have expected, all things considered. What remained to be seen was just what the Empress truly wanted in return. The Dominion itself was not such a power that other nations would wish to cozy up to it for good relations alone. What it did have, however, was decidedly impressive contacts, and a respectable amount of influence within certain circles.

Never one to take things at face value, Nathicana decided that the most likely reason was the latter, couched in pretty diplomatic overtones, however sincere they may be. Thankfully, this was something the Imperatrice could respect.

A means to an end. Which ends remain to be seen. So many options ...

Nathi took a slow sip of her ever-present ice water, then gathered her writing supplies and personal stationery to pen a short but cordial reply, adding her personal seal in the old tradition of red wax and gold-corded ivory envelope bearing the mark of the Dominion when she was finished. In the interest of expediency and ettiquite, she chose to use the same return courrier, given Mangala was a comfortable buffer to operate through, being an ally of both nations seperately.

Empress Friedelinde Alderman of the United Star Empire of Valinon,

Allow me to extend my personal greetings, and to express my pleasure at having recieved your missive. It does my heart good to hear that we may have an opportunity to ease past tensions that have unfortunately arisen between our two Empires. Such regrettable incidents should not become a bar to future relations between two such honorable nations as ourselves, when we have the means at our disposal to properly redress them. The Church tells us that the 'sins' of the father should not be visited upon his children, no? Given their good example, surely we should be able to come to an accord.

I look forward to hearing what you have in mind for these improved relations, and in which directions you might wish to progress.

Sincerely,

--Nathicana D'Aquisto,
Dread Lady and First Imperatrice of the Dominion

Mangala Corp. Courier had built it's reputation on discretion and speed, and on it's extreme discretion in handling delicate business. No corporation was perfect, however. No one outside of Mangala every got a wiff of the messages that the MCC courier's carried, but there was a reason that the corporation fired one or two employees every year without citing any reason or breach of contract. Everyone knew Mangala's Internal Security didn't spy on its own citizens, who would hear of such a thing? MCC didn't make a fuss, but it also never stopped trying to avoid such governent interference.

Rose Salvador hadn't been fired yet, however, and so she was fortunate enough to be in the right place to notice when the small package addressed to the Valinor capitol came through. Opening the sealed pouch would have been far too risky, but she knew that there were a few members of the Internal Security Ministry who would be interested to hear of high-level communication between the Dominion and the Star Empire.

Friedelinde waits patiently as Erwin Ribbentrop neatly folds the letter and returns it to the envelope.

"It does seem to bode well for us, Your Majesty," he says as he returns the letter to Friedelinde's waiting hand.

"Indeed it does, Erwin, indeed it does. Certainly much more open than I expected, perhaps I judged the Dominion in error when I first considered opening dialogue."

"So you intend to proceed more boldly?"

Friedelinde smiles in a coy fashion, "I said I may have judged them in error, Erwin. That does not necessarily mean that I am willing to risk such good will due to a moment of haste and indiscretion on my part. No, I will proceed as planned. This affair must be handled delicately, there is some matter of similarity in regards to the societies of the Dominion and the Star Empire regarding past greviances and indiscretions. And I have no doubt that carrying out relations with the Dominion slowly will only work as a benefit."

"Shall I convey your wishes to Duke Sterling then?"

"Yes, that would be in order. Tell Adrian that I will send him my personal recommendation and sponsorship for an ambassador to the Dominion in short order. After I compose an appropriate reply to the Imperatrice. He can address any formal concerns or matters regarding the appointment at the Ministry session tomorrow."

Erwin stands and bows in his stiff, formal matter, "It will be done, Your Majesty."

Friedelinde opens a drawer to withdraw a piece of stationary as she watches Erwin close her study door. She stands as the primary of Alpha Centauri blazes towards its final minutes and works her hand as she lays down the pen. It has been a particularly long day, and, as matters seem to bode as of late, there seems to be something amiss in the Raumreich. Beneath the layer of calm, it is becoming clear that old tensions and arguments are coming to light once again. And if the Star Empire is to obtain any hope of remaining impassive to the some issues in the Oversector, it must show that its eyes now drift beyond the systems of Gregor, Roum, Vakutu, Ticonderoga, and Grayson--at least enough to have benevolent neutrality respected. Friedelinde folds the letter in a small series of swift motions, and prepares the envelope while she waits for one of the Alderman's Gehn servants to ferry a sealed pouch to the Mangala Corporation's offices in the Commercia.

**********


Lady Imperatrice Nathicana D’Aquisto of the Dominion,

Your good will and your candor is greatly appreciated. However, I am loathe to rush the Dominion and the Star Empire into full relations in an abrupt manner. The attitudes of citizens of both your realm and my own regarding past indiscretions and greviances have some measure of similarity to them. For my own at least, this is both a strength and a weakness.

If it is acceptable to your tastes, I would prefer to slowly transition our nations into a formal relationship. Initially with an exchange of embassies perhaps? I am currently considering candidates for a formal post as ambassador to the Dominion, and would be more than willing to host a representative of the Dominion in New Koln. After that I feel it may be best to let the course of the present and the future carry this relationship where it will. That way more reactionary elements in both the Star Empire and the Dominion may have time to come to terms with one another rather than causing continual conflict.

There has been considerable interest expressed in my Court in at least two particularly areas to open dialogue with the Dominion. The first is that of a trade agreement between the Star Empire and the Dominion, and the second is a possible non-aggression pact. However, I will restrain any such action until such time I have heard from you regarding the creation of an embassy.

With respects and regards,
Friedelinde Alderman,
Empress of the United Star Empire

The response was simple, and between the flowery diplospeak, fairly to the point, if a bit delayed.

To the Honorable Friedelinde Alderman, Empress of the United Star Empire:

I believe that slow and steady would indeed be the most prudent course, especially considering your comments concerning similar attitudes. One would not wish to misstep in an effort to hurry along, after all. While we are not in the habit of exchanging embassies with nations whom we have had in the past less than cordial relations, or do not know well enough, we do have opportunities we can avail ourselves with in regards to more immediate contact.

One is through the Trade Network Association (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=392054) - a very loose group with a surprisingly large following, that is a non-binding network, as the name implies, to encourage business between those who may not in the normal course of exchanges have the opportunity to interact. Please find attached details concerning this, on the offhand chance it is an opportunity that might interest you.

Another possible arrangement is space aboard Machiavelli (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=392682&page=1&pp=40) - our latest and indeed only effort to date in a remote docking station. It is a large installation, and has become a crossroads for many different nations and associations and businesses. Such 'embassies' as you mentioned have become more common there, being comprised of more an office for contact and arranging business and the like. Given the security and the attempt at holding neutral ground there between alliances and all the rest, it can offer unique opportunities for interaction. And given it is a Dominion holding, it would give your people and ours a better chance to mingle, and develop new, hopefully better opinions of one another in a controlled environment. In an effort to assist, details will also be attached concerning the station.

I believe my first suggestion adequately covers your suggestion of a trade agreement. As for the second suggestion of a non-aggression pact, please accept my apologies - the Dominion does not believe in such things, and has not and indeed, will not be a signatory to such. We believe that relations ought to be worked on and upheld, regardless of what some slip of paper says. We have also noted that such pacts have rarely prevented one party or the other from breaching them at any given time. It is my personal feeling that such things are not worth the paper they are written on, however good the intentions that spawn them may be.

I hope that this missive offers you avenues to ponder, and possible solutions to our current cool relations. With respect,

--Nathicana D'Aquisto,
Dread Lady and First Imperatrice of the Dominion