NationStates Jolt Archive

(HIFEX NEWS AGENCY: ELDAIMOVEY, SCHULTARIA PRIME 20:30 SCT)

As government contractor crews made their final inspection passes throughout the kilometers of empty roadway, a large delegation of government officials, international media, and tens of thousands of civilians assembled for a momentous occasion for the nation. Amidst large fanfare and a flurry of cargo vehicles, the Schultarian Central Directorate officially declared the laboratory complex of Eldaimovey as officially rebuilt and ready to resume normal operations.

"The last decade has been one of the most trying times in our nation in nearly a century," said Director Damien, as he spoke to the gathering thousands, "this nation experienced the worst tragedy ever to befall on our soil. Nonetheless, we are stronger for it, and we have rebuilt what was taken from us."

As the ceremonies and speeches progressed, the gathering crowds received a surprise visitor. Central Director Schultz, breaking from his 9 year reclusion, made an impromptu speech to the international press.

"Though we can never replace the lives and the experience that was lost, let it be known that Schultaria Prime will never bow to those who seek to limit our peaceful expansion of knowledge! Our nation shall be a scientific and technical power once again, and we shall do it not by bombs, bullets, or breaking other nations, but by peacefully pursuing the very nature of the universe surrounding us. Let this rededication show to the world our commitment to make good on our promise to pursue science as Schultaria Prime's main goal."

Once the ribbon was officially cut, a small group of delegates were allowed to take a tour of the more elaborate facilities. One of the most moving reminders was the new MCC Building, built over preserved ruins of the former Mission Control Center. A glass floor in the lobby displays the twisted wreckage of consoles and burnt murals of Schultaria's former progress, while the names of the 8,472 employees and 734 civilians who were killed in the devastation were etched into the solid black granite walls of the new Central Command Trench. Also, in honor of the fallen Schultarians of Eldaimovey, one of Schultaria Prime's most acclaimed painters, Geena Yrotrob, created two new works for the International Visitor Center Building.

"The Pride and Joy"
-A commissioned work by Yrotrob ten years ago for Eldaimovey's 5th annual First Contact Day; was never displayed publicly.

http://bonedaddy.net/emschultz/Eldaimoveyhere.jpg

"Destroyed Dreams"
-Inspired from the small amount of footage covering the destruction of the main research facilities, Yrotrob recreated her initial picture to emphasize the catastrophe of Eldaimovey's immediate aftermath.

http://bonedaddy.net/emschultz/Eldaimoveygone.jpg

The Noviet government would like to take this time to both congratulate you on your successful reconstruction of Eldaimovey and to offer our condolences on the losses you suffered. We would like to send an official on the tour of this monument to the Schultarian spirit. The official would tour the facility and make a donation to the 9,204 families adversely affected those years ago. We would be a fairly passive observer but feel that as a friend and ally we cannot help but be there when a time so important to your nation is at hand.

Would this be a good time to reopen considerations of a Schultarian ambassadorial delegation to the Guilds?
~Governor of Arêtê

The NS Banking Corporation is proud to have been part of the rebuilding process of the Eldaimovey Laboratory Complex. It would be my honor to tour the rebuilt facility and meet with some of the families.

http://img37.photobucket.com/albums/v114/hamptonshire/bluebridge.jpg
Albert Bluebridge
President/ Bank Manager of the NSBC
Vice Chairman of the Hamptonshire Defense Corporation

A message from the Schultarian Central Directorate to the Nations of Nova Hope, Spacer Guilds, and NS Banking Corporation.


We would be enthralled if your nations would attend the first touring groups of Eldaimovey; after all, without your financial and physical support, Schultaria Prime would still be attempting to solve the problems of designing this massive project. Our debt to you is immeasurable, and we will find some way as to repay you in kind. We can only hope that our relations will continue to improve as we pursue the policies of peace.

If you desire to come and visit Schultaria Prime then you are more than welcome to by all means. We hope that you will see why we place so much of our national pride in this facility, and why we are so thankful to everyone who has sacrificed so much for the Schultarian ideal.

-Central Director Elliot Schultz
-Director Joan Covey
-Director Harlen Damien

A BUMP for more international responses.

Director Schultz,
We are very pleased. We would be most honored to tour your new facilities. We shall send someone in the usual way.
~Governor of Arêtê

(OOC: If you want to wait a bit, just consider the following to happen in the future. Otherwise, here's my intro.)

In only 160 minutes after another spaceplane had departed the city-ship Arêtê, it entered Earth's atmosphere like a long-lived meteor, streaking across the sky and leaving behind a blueish-white and green trail of ionized air. As it slowed against the friction of the atmosphere, huge amounts of gas were forced into pressure chambers. As it passed nine thousand meters altitude, the meteor trail dissapeared, and the spaceplane was gliding like a normal aircraft- granted, most normal aircraft don't travel over mach 5. Here, the pressure chambers were released to power reverse-thrust engines and bring it down to a speed suitable for landing. Not too long ago, the plane would've come screaming into the runway still red-hot- but trade with Earth had been increasing, and landings were no longer quite so rough.

The WaveRider made its final approach to Eldaimovey like any commercial airliner would- indeed, by now there were quite a few commercial airliners that were even larger than it. The rubber heated up as the plane touched down on the runway and mechanical brakes applied, but it was tough enough for the stresses that its designers knew it would face, and the tires easily remained intact as the plane rolled to a near halt on the last of its pressurized air for the retros and taxied off of the runway.

"Attention Guilder WaveRider, this is Schultarian Central Air Defense Command. We copy your touchdown on runway AK-8, glad to have you. Welcome to Eldaimovey..."

It had been over nine years since Eldaimovey had been alive with such activity, and the leadership of Schultaria Prime welcomed this revival of contact. Though the day was warmer than expected, the delegation of waiting diplomats and high-echelon defense personnel were quite content to wait outside in a grand balcony for the space plane’s arrival. As the delegation spotted the WaveRider taxing, they assembled for final official preparations. With the hassle of diverting Guilder flights to the lesser equipped airfields of Kerga-Prmus, the delegation on board the space plane would be in for a wonderful surprise.

"WaveRider, WaveRider, this is Eldaimovey ground control. Please approach gate Gamma for final disembarking and environmental equalization checklists. Repeat, gate Gamma..."

Ever since first contact with the Guilders over fifteen years ago, Schultaria Prime had always tried to make earnest attempts to solve the architectural problems of their complex mobility. Though they retrofitted the launch gantries of the original complex to better accommodate the WaveRider's (and their occupant's) dimensions the end result was a shaky, Goldberg type of contraption that would fail as much as it would operate correctly. However, with the reconstruction efforts completed, Eldaimovey was completely redesigned; instead of the complex transfer of elevators and ramps, a new and highly stylistic launch gate system was designed. Even though Schultaria Prime is still quite far from launching its first person into the fold of space, this launch system was prepared for all forms of craft Schultarian or Alien, and the WaveRider was a perfect fit for the still untested gantry systems.

As the Guilder craft made its final checklists, the Schultarian delegation awaited their visitors with friendly faces and open minds. All that remained was to wait for their greeting.

A BUMP for any other nations who wish to visit Eldaimovey. The tours have yet to start!

The 747 took off the runway in Nova Hope. Harold Kanagaki the foreign affairs minister was doing a preflight check of his own. Okay review original disaster on plane, do I have my big giant cheque? Check. He chuckled at his interior monologue. It took a little bit to get him into the air but he was going now. There was a lot going on in Nova Hope right now but Shultaria Prime was a close friend and defiantly worth the shuffling of schedules. The administration had offered compensation to the victims’ families but was at a loss of what else they could do to be supportive. Anything that is needed Harold silently vowed taking up the folder to read up on Eldaimovey.

A BUMP for more international responses

"Attention Guilder WaveRider, this is Schultarian Central Air Defense Command. We copy your touchdown on runway AK-8, glad to have you. Welcome to Eldaimovey..."
...
"WaveRider, WaveRider, this is Eldaimovey ground control. Please approach gate Gamma for final disembarking and environmental equalization checklists. Repeat, gate Gamma..."

In the cockpit, the pilot slowly closed her large dark eyes, and would've sighed had the encountersuit not been holding her lungs to a steady rhythm of compression and decompression. Her fingers moved over the armrest controls, and the LCD display that stood in for a windshield swivelled away. Another switch retracted the fly-by-wire control panel, and the last switch swivelled the heavily padded pilot's chair to face backwards and rotated it from a reclining to an upright position. After unbuckling the restraints, the pilot fell about half an inch to the floor under Earth's crushing gravity, supported by carbon fiber beams running along her legs. She, or rather her suit, took two steps to port, and unlocked four latches holding a glass cylinder on wheels to its electrical umbilical, and the two Guilders walked back into the cabin.
The pilot waited inside the disembarkation airlock as the ship's computers played with turbopumps to equalize the atmospheric pressure and composition with the Big Blue Room. Let's see.... I turned on the brakes, the radiators are running, the hexaflouride tanks are sealed.... OK, OK, it's all good, all good. The green light came on, and a click announced that the outer door had unlocked. The pilot pushed it open, and walked out into the Tellurian sun glinting off of the shiny surface of her white and silver suit.

The pilot paused for a moment, looking at the Schultarians, working up a suitable facial expression. She flicked up the visor of her helmet sporting a sparkly-white friendly smile on a large-eyed, short-haired Indian face. Arms rigid at her sides, shew bowed ever so slightly, then carefully removed the helmet, holding it slung under one arm.

"Zdravstvuy. Call me Sofiya." With her free arm, she indicated the cylinder, darkly tinted in response to the sun. "And my companion, Raisa."

For the delegation, all of them were anxious to receive their first experience with the peculiarities of extra-planetary diplomacy. Though contact with the Guilders had been steady between the two nations for the better part of twenty years, the majority of the relationship had been one of pragmatic economic concern; very little active diplomacy blossomed during the dark times of Eldaimovey's destruction, and both parties were more concerned about the continual flow of trade rather than cultural values. However, these delegates felt that the gap of contact between the Nations of Spacer Guilds and Schultaria Prime might be commuted, if even only for the briefest of time.

While the formalities of greeting the Guilder Delegation were progressing smoothly an unaccompanied pair, one man and one woman sharply dressed in black pinstripe suits stepped towards the throng of people. Nodding to the diplomats, the group parted and both greeted the Guilder in a mixture of Schultarian Standard and English.

"Nolaes holvenna, Guilden Sofiya. Welcome to Schultaria Prime."

"We hope that your journey was without serious event. Duleoi unik Spacer Guilds nall Schultaria Prime."

The woman stepped forward, bowed, and extended a small data pad of Schultarian Design to the pilot.

"We are Directors Harlen Damien and Joan Covey; thank you for your presence on this wonderful day. Please accept this Data Pad with a complete history of the Schultarian Nation as a token of our gratitude."

Harlen, once Joan's official greeting had finished, chimed in.

"Please, if both of you would like, we will be waiting for our other international guests at the Visitor Center Building. An open air tram has been arranged for our comfort, as the grounds for the center are 5 kilometers away. Or, if you would choose otherwise, we can wait here until you feel sufficiently comfortable to maneuver in our gravity. The choice is up to you and your companion."

A BUMP to generate interest for the rest of NS.

ooc: I'll have my guy land when you decide to continue or when more interest is generated okay? I think I'd like to take this oppurtunity to broach with you the TAPRES flagship ideal in character, albeit in another thread but this is when I'd have the guy there to talk to you about it.

Sofiya took the data pad in one rubber-coated hand.
"Thank you, Director Covey. I'm sure it will be most interesting."
Sofiya waited for Harlen, then stowed the data pad in a side pocket while answering.
"No, no. I'll be fine for now. Let us proceed to the Center. I'm very mcuh looking forward to meeting everybody."

Directors Covey and Damien nodded in agreement to Sofiya's suggestion and proceeded to escort the Guilder delegation to the far end of the terminal where the convoy of three guarded trams awaited them. While designed for more utilitarian purposes, all of them were outfitted with amenities and security devices to insure the absolute security of the party as they traveled to the International Visitor Center. Following the attack of Eldaimovey, Schultarian security services were quintupled in all areas; especially visible were the amounts of fighter craft patrolling in long arcing holding patterns around the edge of the libratory complex.

Director Damien leaned forward to Sofiya, and began to point out various markers and signs.

"The visitor center is fifteen kilometers away from the gantry complex, so it will take us approximately 20 minutes to arrive at our destination and meet our other guests. You've also probably noticed that some our workers might seem a little 'defensive'; given what has happened to us, we've had to increase our assurance to each and every worker that an event such as the Contact Day Massacre will never happen again. Despite all of our best planning, there is still the possibility of danger. However, all of us feel that this facility is worth the time, effort, and liability. If you have any questions, please feel free to point out anything you want; Joan and I would be happy to answer."

OOC: Are there any other nations willing to visit Eldaimovey? I will bump to see if anyone else is interested.

OOC: Are there any other nations willing to visit Eldaimovey? I will bump to see if anyone else is interested.

OOC: Give me the word and I'll write up my entry, I was just waiting for some more interest.

Harold always hated landing. The pressure in his ears was uncomfortable, it’s why he always used the rails back home. Not going to take a train to a nation thousands of kilometres away on an island now are we? He could here the muffled voice of the pilot clearing the landing with air traffic control in Shultaria Prime, well time to put on the diplomatic face. Reaching over to the intercom he buzzed his assistant
“Elaine, can you check with the crew and see if the motorcade is in operational order? I want be able to take a drive over to the capital after the tour.”
“Right away Mr. Kanagaki” replied a subservient voice from the intercom. Harold patted his attaché case, I hope Director Schultz will see me directly but I’ll pitch this to whoever listens. This is the president’s pet and I’m not going to be the one who drops the ball on this. Harold took a deep breath and finished off his cigar before looking over at the cheque, That’s a lot of zeros, a million dollars for each family. Harold put on his sun glasses, they were dark for more than simple professionalism. Using a series of well practiced eye movements he brought up his speech on the HUD in the lens. Hopefully there’s no interruption in signal this time, I don’t want to have to wing it like I did for my inauguration speech. But the techies said they boosted the gain and the problem shouldn’t reoccur. The intercom buzzed again and spoke,
“Mr. Kanagaki, we’ve stopped and your free to exit the plane.”
“Thanks Josh.” Well here goes Harold put a professional look on his face, one to inspire trust with his slight smile, yet one to command respect that showed dignity and age. Exiting the 747 Harold took in the scene about him…

OOC: I’m really not sure what to expect so you can fill me and I’ll write it or you can post it yourself.

OOC2: Oww, my head hurts I just read the 14 pages of the other threads that lead up to this in their entirety.

OOC: Grrr, I thought I already wrote something a long time ago... the forums must have DEATed it.

IC: The Commonwealth congratulates our long-standing ally of Schultaria Prime for their unwavering resolve in the face of numerous unfortunant incidents. We offer our condolences to the families of the victims who perished in that unprovoked attack upon a scientific research facility. We also express sorrow at the irreplacable amount of techology and research lost in the destruction of Eldaimovey. However, that time has past and it is time to look into the future. We would like to send a representative, one Dr. Aimes Brown, head of the Government's Department of Science and Technology. We await your response.

Nathanial Sun,
Minister of Foreign Affairs

Central Director Schultz retired to a large office located on the fourth floor of the International Visitor Center Building, enjoying the rest bit from his otherwise full day of shaking hands and photo opportunities. Slouching back in his tall-backed aged brown leather chair, he pulled out his small data pad to catch up on the recent news events during his impromptu speech. Scrolling through the daily Directorate briefings and personal diplomatic messages, Elliot paged an assistant to bring him some coffee and a small deli sandwich lunch.

"Take your time, and just leave the tray at the end of the desk; I'm going to be very busy so I'll thank you in advance for your troubles."

"As you wish Elliot," the assistant replied. Since his last encounter with the Indrans over ten years ago, Elliot had become increasingly jovial and open to the nation while remaining reclusive with the rest of the international community. "Now is a perfect time to reconnect with old international friends," he thought, "ah good, Granzi has decided to send a delegate and the Nova Hope delegation has landed outside of Eldaimovey. I think I'll send them a little video greeting."

The Central Director attached a small panning camera and microphone set to his data pad and adjusted the frame in order to insure a clear shot. He reclined in his chair, made sure that the data feed was secure and sent his message.


To both the Nations of Granzi and Nova Hope, I hope this message finds you well. I am grateful for your generous support to our nation in our time of need and I am anxiously awaiting your arrival in Eldaimovey. All pertinent data regarding Eldaimovey's location, flight and shipping lanes, and all security operation procedures will be attached to his message in order to streamline your trip.

I'll be waiting for you at the International Visitor Center Building where I hope you will come with many questions and a great deal of curiosity.

A BUMP to reinitate interest in this RP.

Another BUMP for all nations that are interested.

OOC: Anyone wish to take the tour?

Ooc:
My apologies bud after the server change I lost this thread. I’m still having a bit of trouble navigating within the new forums. And you have a PM on the TAPRES boards btw.

IC:

Stepping off the plane Harold looked around, the area was cordoned off from the main terminal, a diplomatic courtesy. The airport was understandably busy, it being the closest one to the Eldaimovey festivities. Stepping onto the tarmac his shoes clicked as he walked to the rear of the plane where his limo was being unloaded from the cargo area of the 747-SP. With a mild buzz his sub-dermal implant came to life and the pilot’s voice could be heard as if he was speaking from inside Harold’s own head.
“Sir we have a message from the Central Director, I’ll forward it now.” With that half of his vision was gone as the video message was projected onto the lens of his eye via his glasses. Once the message had played through Harold prompted his technologically advanced spectacles, otherwise know as a P-HUDD, to return to transparency. Clearing his throat Harold spoke to the driver who was giving the limo the once over to make sure the trip didn’t scuff it.
“Are you familiar with how to get to the International Visitor Center?”
“Yes sir. It was required that I do a lot of studying of satellite observances of the area so I might better assist you in your tasks.”
“Excellent!” Harold boomed in a jovial voice smiling brighter than the mid day sun “Then take me there please!”

"The visitor center is fifteen kilometers away from the gantry complex, so it will take us approximately 20 minutes to arrive at our destination and meet our other guests. You've also probably noticed that some our workers might seem a little 'defensive'; given what has happened to us, we've had to increase our assurance to each and every worker that an event such as the Contact Day Massacre will never happen again. Despite all of our best planning, there is still the possibility of danger. However, all of us feel that this facility is worth the time, effort, and liability. If you have any questions, please feel free to point out anything you want; Joan and I would be happy to answer.""I believe most questions will be reserved for the tour, but your openness is appreciated, Director Damien. Though I probably wouldn't have noticed any unusual defensive were it not pointed out." Sofiya took a hard suck of air from her suit's rebreather and smiled. "These gravity suits, they are a bit imposing, no?"

Joan smiled in response to Sofiya's comment, "You know, even after fifteen years of trade with your nation I still am impressed by your willingness to come planet side to meet us. Our physiologists can only imagine the effects of permanent exposure to microgravity; even though the suits might look imposing I can assume that they are just as imposing to utilize effectively."

As the tram made its way down the main six lane thoroughfare, the landscape slowly developed from untamed prairies and expansive pasture lands to a busy and bustling collective of high rise skyscrapers. The laboratory, once a loose collection of small prefabricated aluminum warehouses coupled with the occasional bunker, became indistinguishable with any other Schultarian Metropolis. "It's amazing to think that our contractors were able to build all of these skyscraper laboratories in less than ten years," Damien said in nostalgic wonder, "as you can see, none of them are less than fifteen stories high and 62,500 meters square at their base. It cost us a trillion dollars more than what our government had hoped to pay, but we are placing our future on the very survival of this facility."

As the tram approached the International Visitor Center, a small detachment of Schultarian Special Operations Forces escorted the Directors and the Guilder guest to the main courtyard square. The IVC, a massive 60 story building a quarter of a kilometer square, stood in front of the delegation with its titanium shell revealing a iridescent blue hue from an the cobalt tinted windows. Beside the main entryway, two highly polished black granite statues featuring the likenesses of Kevem Haarvekord and Merle Schultz towered in a benevolent tribute to the strength of the Schultarian nation. Director Damien motioned for the rest of the delegation to follow the military detachment.

"Central Director Schultz will be waiting for us in the first floor atrium, hopefully the other guests will arrive soon and we can begin our tour."

Harold was very impressed with the skyline around him. Looking like a thriving metropolitan area he was very surprised not to see the slums, which surrounded the downtown of almost every major Noviet city except NHC (Nova Hope City), were non-existent. I wonder if this is due to the fact that it is new or because of a domestic policy, I’ll have to enquire.

Sometime later the limo entered the car port of the visitor’s centre and Harold went about tiding himself up again, although not much muss could’ve been achieved in such a car ride but Harold was never one to assume. Well big smiles and enter the door, no holding back we are all friends here and I need to make a successful pitch to Director Schultz. With that Harold exited the limo with his attaché in hand, his P-HUDD over his eyes and his entourage, a stunning blonde and a scruffy looking young man, trailing behind. Entering the main doors he scanned the room and took in the situation.

Joan smiled in response to Sofiya's comment, "You know, even after fifteen years of trade with your nation I still am impressed by your willingness to come planet side to meet us. Our physiologists can only imagine the effects of permanent exposure to microgravity; even though the suits might look imposing I can assume that they are just as imposing to utilize effectively.""Well, to be perfectly honest its not much worse than an EVA suit. And Raisa likes breathing liquid, don't you?" Sofiya tapped the glass cylinder.
"Fifty percent oxygen by volume is an improvement. But I would not go so far as to use the word 'like'."
"Well. Since the suits take care of the gravity problem reasonably well, the real problem with coming planetside is mostly psychological. Most people just can't handle the completely different environment. I've got several hundred hours EVA under my belt, so I'm better with all the open space than most, but every time the wind changes direction I can't help thinking 'hull breach'."

The laboratory, once a loose collection of small prefabricated aluminum warehouses coupled with the occasional bunker, became indistinguishable with any other Schultarian Metropolis. "It's amazing to think that our contractors were able to build all of these skyscraper laboratories in less than ten years," Damien said in nostalgic wonder, "as you can see, none of them are less than fifteen stories high and 62,500 meters square at their base. It cost us a trillion dollars more than what our government had hoped to pay, but we are placing our future on the very survival of this facility.""Most impressive, by any standard." And especially relevant, too, Sofiya thought to herself. These are looking more and more like just the sort of people we need.

"Central Director Schultz will be waiting for us in the first floor atrium, hopefully the other guests will arrive soon and we can begin our tour."Raisa lowered the level of tint in the glass of her tank to get a better look at the statues. "I have heard good things about that man. It will be nice to finally meet him."

*friendly bump*

The International Visitor Center, a behemoth amongst similar giants, was surprisingly quiet and very placid given its imposing dimensions. As the midday sun passed over the vast atrium, the floor was covered in a brilliant reflective blue light; bouncing off the polished black granite walkways, the entire open air court shone as though the sun itself had parted the heavens to cast its infinite brilliance on this lush island of technology and organic beauty. Merging with the rigid walkways, a wonderfully stunning array of trees and songbirds were basking in the ever present light, bearing an air of natural aesthetics in the slightly hilly courtyard. On the northern and southern walls stood the acclaimed Yrotrobian paintings, their austere lack of coloring serving to enhance their already massive scale.

Director Damien began to talk while the group took time to view the courtyard in greater detail.

"This is where our science meets the balance of nature. Instead of a normal grand lobby, our nation thought it would be better to merge our ever growing urbanization with the pleasures of old Schultarian pastoral settings. As most Schultarians believe in the duality of technology and nature, this was a pretty easy sell," he began to chuckle.

At this time, the group had noticed another delegation arriving from the northern entrance. Seeing as Central Director Schultz would probably not arrive for a few minutes, the Directors thought it courteous to meet these honored guests.

Harold saw the Schultarians coming towards him. He smiled a wide white tooth grin that contrasted against his darker oriental skin. Speaking in a jovial voice he greeted the Schultarian from a good couple metres away.
“Well quite the structure you have here. Can’t decide whether I’m indoors or out.” Closing the distance he grasped the Schultarian’s hand in a firm grip shaking it strongly.
“My name is Harold Kanagaki the Minister of Foreign Affairs in Nova Hope. Unfortunately with the Prime Minister out of country the President was unable to leave his post and I’m the highest ranking official they could send. President Lincoln sends his apologies.” Letting go of the Schultarian’s hand Harold stood back, his Japanese upbringing taking hold, he straightened his back in perfect posture and began.
“It is an honor,” Harold took a deep bow with his hands clasped in front of his chest, “to be allowed to visit the marvel, no, wonder that is Eldaimovey.” Uprighting himself Harold smiled at the Schultarian gauging his reaction.

Both Directors were quite pleased at Kanagaki's arrival, it was their goal that at least one TAPRES member nation would be able to attend this gala event for reasons more than just mere formality. "With the Spacer Guilds and the Chief Treasurer of TAPRES, our dream could finally come true," thought Covey, as she bowed in concert with Harlen in an equal gesture of deference. Harlen procured a small data pad, and slowly approached the Noviet Minister.

Directors Damien and Covey welcomed the Noviet minister with a small bow and a greeting in a combination of Schultarian Standard and English.

"Nolaes holvenna, Novennen Kanagaki. Welcome to Schultaria Prime."

"We hope that your journey was without serious event. Duleoi unik Nova Halvenna nall Schultaria Prime."

"We are Directors Harlen Damien and Joan Covey; thank you for your presence on this wonderful day. Please accept this Data Pad with a complete history of the Schultarian Nation as a token of our gratitude. And with these formalities concluded, we would like to introduce you to our honored guests from the Spacer Guilds."

As the group began to mingle, Director Schultz peered through the one way mirrored window that was located in his temporary office room. The coffee, though cold by the time the group had finally assembled, gave him some solace in his unwilling reclusion. "It's been nine years since anyone outside of the country has seen me, I hope that they like who they're going to meet,' he mumbled to himself as he downed the last quarter of his cup with little regret. Picking up his suit jacket, glasses, and data pad, Elliot proceeded to the main escalator.

"I really hate grandiose entrances, I'd rather just sneak up and start shaking hands."

While the Noviet and Guilder nationals were greeting each other, all the necessary preparations were being made for Elliot's security. The Directorate Bodyguard, the special operations group specifically assigned with the task of protecting the three leaders of Schultaria Prime, conducted sweep after exhaustive sweep from floor to ceiling. Elliot could walk nary a step without being tested for biological and nuclear agents, frustrating the already impatient Central Director. Standing uncomfortably at the head of the Grand Lobby Escalator he grabbed a Bashar Colonel to inquire about his postponed entrance, by force if necessary.

Though approaching his sixtieth year of age, Elliot's body had held up surprisingly well following the rigorous genetic reconstruction given to him by Indra Prime. With the body and stamina of his early twenties Elliot grabbed the Bashar Colonel, a man of considerable strength and heightened combat reflexes, and flipped him to the floor with little effort on his part or a wrinkle on his suit. Surprised, the Colonel attempted to understand what had just happened, only to be met by the Central Director's right hand holding him fast to the floor.

"Now I will ask you nicely," growled Elliot through his clenched teeth and fixed blood red lips, "why have you not given me the go ahead? You'd better give me a good answer; otherwise you'll learn to like being a grunt all over again."

"Sssir? No ppproblems ssir. Jjusst trrying to be. Thhrough ssir. Please, don't be angry with me sir! I just want be responsible for your safety," he said, attempting to hold back what were obviously tears.

"Fair enough," Elliot helped the Colonel to his feet, "next time, make sure to do this earlier. I don't want to leave the impression that I'm a leader who does not value his punctuality, you can understand that right. Oh, and you really need to work on your balance, that was just too easy!"

Stifling a laugh, the Colonel finally gave Elliot the go ahead for his entrance. As he made a final check of his appearance, he left his mind blank of anything other than being personable. "Cripes, I really hate formal entrances. Ah well, play the part and be over with it I guess."

At the balcony of the Grand Lobby, four floors below the touring party, a page announced the Central Director's arrival.

"It is our honor, that the Nation of Schultaria Prime presents our Central Director and Grandson of the late revolutionary leader, Elliot Schultz!"

The Page quickly retired from the balcony, and the voices of a small chorus began to sift through the bright sky of the atrium. While Harlen and Joan were still talking to their diplomatic guests, both took very conscious glances to the top of the ornately carved granite stairwell. At a predetermined signal the voices of the choir, whose delicate whispers filled the hall with an ethereal melodic cocoon, greeted the diplomats with Schultaria Prime's national anthem. With their voices rising to the occasion Elliot, in the first time since that terrible day nine years ago, appeared before an international audience.

"You are the new day. You are the new day! I will love you more than me and more than yesterday..."

Though Elliot was impressed with the choir's ability, he still had an entrance to make. Cautiously and very deliberately, the usually gregarious Central Director formed his hatred of formality into a shell of propriety. Stiffening his shoulders and straightening his step, he made his way down the steps keeping in pace with the anthem. The fluid motion of his step evaporated any doubts about his health; ten years ago this sort of entrance was expressly forbidden due to his health, but now his vitality exceeded his wildest fantasies. Precise as a finely tuned watch and self conscious to the point of being aloof, he approached the end of the finely carved red steps.

"Love of life means hope for me! Born on a new day! You are the new day!"

When the choir ended, Elliot was firmly planted on the ground floor standing with such rigidity that his personal bodyguard strained to keep their appearance. Slowly and with the same fluidity, he approached his counterparts and stopped within a meter of shaking their hand. Bowing slowly, he addressed the group in an uncharacteristically dark tone.

"Thank you for coming here today. I am deeply honored that all of you could come and visit what you have helped us create, but I must ask of you one thing," he smiled, and with his arms extended, "relax, and enjoy yourselves! Welcome to Schultaria Prime; I hope that you find your stay well!"

Breaking his intentionally fear induced demeanor, Elliot began to shake the hands of each foreign delegate and greet them personally. "They seem to have a good sense of humor; I hope that they see me as more jovial and less of an autocrat."

Harold had mixed impressions on the Director’s entrance, but he only displayed one reaction, appreciation for the Director’s arrival. When the Director bowed during his intro Harold bowed with him in respect. When the Director’s mood suddenly lightened Harold took the cues and smiled. Shaking hardily in a firm grip he held Elliot’s hand.
“Director Schultz I must say this is an amazing thing you have here. Very amazing. Oh, but before I forget I have a present to the Schultarian people that I’d like you to receive for them, not right this instance obviously but I felt I had to inform you so there’d be enough time during the tour.” Releasing the Director’s hand Harold continued to smile, with a mild chuckle he added.
“I’ve also something I’d like to run by you as per my President’s request, but this can all wait until later.” Watching The Director turn to the Spacer delegate he wondered if he’d stepped out of line by mentioning the project here. No, he’s a recluse any chance to talk to him needed to be taken.

Sofiya was, of course, able to shake D. Schultz's hand, and did so, taking the opportunity to say, with a slight chuckle, "believe you me, Director, it's harder to get more relaxed than having ones whole weight supported in a frame!"
Raisa, on the other hand, being stuck behind glass, settled for a peace-sign deally, and also spoke somewhat, her voice artificially amplified and frequency-shifted to make up for her liquid submersion.
"We too have something of a present, or at least I hope you will see it that way. It is of a somewhat immaterial form at the moment, something to be agreed to rather than taken. Hopefully an appropriate time will be found in the tour to give it you."

Central Director Schultz thanked both the Noviet and Guilder delegations for their warm regards. "No need to worry about your presents just yet; all good things can wait with those who are patient," he said to both as several members of the state sponsored Hifex News Agency made sure to photograph the moment in immaculate detail. "Just the fact that both of you are here to see us in person is a gift enough. I've not had the chance to meet anyone outside of Schultaria Prime in so very long; the devastation meant more than just material and personnel losses, but a strike at the very center of the Schultarian Culture."

As the reporters began to clear and take their final notes, the three Directors guided the Noviet and Guilder guests up the grand black stairway to the fourth floor grand balcony. From the simply carved stone guide rail, the party saw the full majesty of the courtyard. Small ribbons of highly polished granite cut their way through hills, but carefully sought to achieve harmony with the surroundings. None of the walkways were designed to be perfectly straight, and many of them flared out and meandered like small brooks. The trees, many ripe with the fruit of summer, spread their deep green leaves in open offering to the sun.

"This represents Eldaimovey's new goal to the world," Central Director Schultz said with a proud, but nostalgic, inflection, "our nation seeks to find ways in which technology can merge with our everyday world and still be a source of obvious visual pride. The granite pathways represent the blood and the creativity of the Schultarian people; never taking the straight and easy path but still imposing enough to be seen amongst the complexity of the world. Come this way to the main conference room, and we'll discuss what our next plan of action will be. After all, you took the time and effort to get here so we want to make sure that you are able to see the things you want."

OOC: It's good to see Eldaimovey back up and running after my *ahem* attack *ahem!*.

IC: A large Portal appeared just over Schulataria Prime. After a few seconds, an ear splitting 'tweet' could be heard, and a large ROBIN shot out at amazing speeds. This ROBIN was the same that devastated Schulataria nearly a decade ago, and the same person that ordered the attack was on the ROBIN now, sitting in his command chair, grinning. This, was Warlord Liquidus Snake, Leader of Outer Heaven Mark II, and the most d Warlord around. Today though, he wasn't planning on everyone...

"Helm, stop here. I will go down myself to go and...greet the Schulatarians with my most trusted Royal Guards," he said, gesturing to the two heavily armoured guards standing by the turbolift, "Make sure that if you get spotted, that you don't try and escape. Our mission isn't genocidal this time." he ordered. The helmsman nodded, and Liquidus stood up. He walked up to a turbolift, and then pointed to the guards standing either side of it.

"You two, come with me, we have a job to do." he ordered. With that, he stepped into the turbolift with his Royal Guards, and the doors shut...


Five minutes later...


Probably the most d ship in Schulatarian History, and the destroyer of the original Eldaimovey, the Cobra Gunship Fang shot out of the atmosphere. After a few seconds, the ship slowed to a near complete halt, and started to find a good landing spot. Once that was found, the ship landed, and Liquidus, along with his two guards, walked down the now opened ramp. He looked around, and watched as numerous people ran away from the site.

"Guess they still fear us." Liquidus muttered. By now, many people had noticed them, and Liquidus knew Elliot, Schulatria's Leader, would come and see what was happening...

OOC: Oh yes Schulaaria, I still have those two 'hostages' we recovered from the original Eldaimovey.

OOC: Just so you know (for timeframe references), this is 9 years after your attack on Eldaimovey. I hope that this is a gesture of reconciliation; it could help to make your pursuance of joining TAPRES that much smoother.

-I will make an IC post later today.

OOC: Yes I know, and you'll be quite surprised.

-Central Defense Command, Kerga-Prmus

General Jaysan Ross, an experienced commander and able minded tactician, had been sitting quietly in his office perusing daily briefings of his regional officers with little interruption. Though the reopening ceremonies at Eldaimovey posed an impossibly high risk due to the threat of Elliot's impromptu appearance, Ross considered himself quite fortunate that nothing severe had threatened either his soldiers or his Commanders in Chief. Secure with the knowledge that his forces knew their roles, Jaysan left his office for his daily constitutional. Before he had even left the door, his fears came true.

Pulling out a small PDA Data Pad, Ross immediately contacted his support staff. Automatically, Ross's demeanor shifted from reflective to responsive with his mind erasing the plans he had established for the day.

"What's the current situation, and how are our people responding?"

A flight intercept operator at Eldaimovey appeared on the screen, his face white with anxiety and confusion. Behind him, Ross could see people running about screaming orders to stay calm and keep at their posts. "Sir, there's been a breach of Eldaimovey airspace. All stations report high confidence, but we have scrambled another 150 fighter-interceptors and mobilized another 500 Special Defensive Forces to cover our options. Current orders from our command are very clear; we are to observe and attempt to contact but not fire unless fired on first,"

General Ross strained to hear the faint shouts from the Central Operators in the background, "Perhaps you should transfer my call to the Central Operator. This could be a deadly serious matter if don't respond properly."

-----
-Defensive Operations Command and Control, Eldaimovey

"I'd better hear that you have things under control, otherwise there'll be hell to pay. This is no drill Captain, so I'd better hear that you're on the ball with this situation."

"General, I can assure you that this incursion was as much of a surprise as most anyone of us could have imagined," Captain Herbert replied, "We can assure you that we will take all the necessary precautions before we resort to any 'permanent' measures, but you might want to see what we are currently facing."

Playing a small video loop, Herbert began to comment on the footage that Ross took in disbelief. "Clearly, we know that these ships were of the same design that strafed Eldaimovey nine years ago and delivered our nation the inglorious day of the Contact Day Massacre. However, we are unaware of their motives at the time being; though we have seen a few people depart from the vessel, all except one appear to be very heavily armed. As of now, the Noviet and Guilder Delegations are 9 km away from the scene and have been notified as to this situation. The foreign vessel has landed unusually close to the Proketsan disaster, but our ground forces have estimated their time to contact at less than 4 minutes. All of our foreign visitors, as well as the Directorate of our nation, have been assured of their security thus far."

"It's their move now, let's hope that they wish to discuss with words instead of weapons this time." Captain Herbert turned away from his console, and began to design the necessary preparations should the situation deteriorate.

Friendly BUMP to have an appropriate foreign response.

ooc: really I'm not sure how to respond, I was waiting for OHmkII to respond and I'd take m cue from that

OOC: Another BUMP for OH Mk II to reply. I'm sorry to press you like this, but Nova Hope and I have already set down rudimentary guidelines for the tour which are somewhat critical to all parties involved.

I await your response with genuine anticipation, but if there is no reply within the next 48 hours then this RP will be carried in another thread to complete the tour.

OOC: Ever so sorry guys, but this holiday I've taken it upon myself to go out alot, rather than spend alot of time on the comp. And also, I can't think of anything really, so I'm just kinda gonna...well, read on, and try and respond from this. Sorry again, but the weather over here is stonking (f**king great in other words, and usually it's crap), and I don't want to miss out, but if anything, I want to see how this does.

IC: After a few minutes, a roar could be heard, and Liquidus looked up. Over him, over a hundred planes shot through the sky towards ROBIN. Liquidus watched for a few seconds, and then shook his head.

"They definately fear us, I can tell, but I hope for their sake they don't fire on the ROBIN, or there will be hell to pay." Liquidus said to no-one. He looked at the new Eldaimovey, and grinned. These people are a resilient people, and artistic. I quite like that, but it's a pity they allied with the wrong people back then... Liquidus thought. Shaking his head, he turned to his two guards.

"These weapons have depleted uranium round in them, so don't open fire unless abselutely necessary. They might be depleted, but they can still cause lasting damage, got it?" he asked. When the two guards nodded, Liquidus grinned, "Good, then lets go, and look imposing, not downright scary. We want to make peace, even ally with these people. We still want to make an impression, but I think what we did nearly a decade ago was impression enough." he said. With that, he turned, and strided towards the main doors at Eldaimovey, hoping the hidden body armour wouldn't be necessary...

-Proketsan Memorial Drive, 2 km from the Landing Site

As a small convoy of lightly armored transports snaked their way through the twists and turns of Eldaimovey's "old" complex, Captain Herbert's nervousness was getting the better of him. He knew his units of special operatives were some of the most ardent defensive soldiers in the nation; their discipline would not be in question, but he was still worried about the task ahead. His anxiety, manifesting itself with the constant obsession of appearance, resulted in him nearly ripping his jacket from the seams out of fear. Embarrassed of what is unit would say, Herbert thought silently in the passenger's seat of his APC. "Please don't fail, please don't fail. Not another..."

Diplomacy was something foreign to him, a device better left to his superiors and the leaders of the government. His training as an officer of the Defense Forces gave him a command over the most basic types of negotiation, propaganda, and diplomacy but nothing in the respect of encountering a new culture. Surveying the roadway ahead, he spotted what appeared to be the three contacts walking down the old main thoroughfare "Space Way". Tapping his driver, the Captain ordered the convoy to meet the unknown entities a block away. "Make sure that you have the rear of the vehicle pointed towards the unknowns and your onboard weapons are pointed skyward."

As the vehicles came to a halt 250 meters from the three unknowns, Herbert contacted his superiors via his mobile Data Pad.

"Visitors are in sight and defensive perimeter is in place. All weapons have either been shouldered or pointed in a direction away from the unknown contacts. We will attempt to contact them as soon as they are within adequate listening distance. Herbert out."

-----
-International Visitor Center, 9 km from the Landing Site

Elliot sighed, contemplating the prospects of canceling the tour outright. "Why is this happening now? And why have these demons come back? Are they here to haunt us again? God what I would give to skip the next 36 hours," but he knew that his wishful thinking was not going to block the very present reality of the situation. Hanging his head, a very frustrated Central Director approached the small throng of people to deliver his dire news.

"Joan, Harlen, and esteemed guests from Nova Hope and Spacer Guilds, it appears that we could have a very threatening situation on our hands. While our defensive forces are attempting to resolve this situation though diplomatic solutions, we must be prepared to leave immediately if any incidents should arise. Right now the details are spotty, but it appears that a singular craft of unknown nationality has landed 9 kilometers from the International Visitor Center. Video analysis of the craft has identified it to be of the same structure as the three which were responsible for the Contact Day Massacre nine years ago.

If we do not hear from our defensive forces within 45 minutes, all operations and diplomatic functions will cease at Eldaimovey. I'd recommend that you contact your respective governmental bodies to inform them that our nation will do everything possible to insure the safety of each and every one of you."

OOC: Is that a cue for me to continue?

OOC: Yes you may reply, and don't worry about the military forces. Their primary objective is to make sure that contact with your nation is established, not create a horrible bloody mess through violence.

OOC: LOL! Why would I be worried? I've got the pride of my Nation's Star Fleet in orbit, two guards with badass weaponry, and the Gunship that strafed Eldaimovey. As far as I was concerned, I thought your forces would be worried about us!

IC: Liquidus turned to the convoy, and laughed. He knew these people feared him, but an armoured convoy vs. him and his two guards!?! Well, Liquidus would have a little fun, or so he believed. Gesturing to his two guards, they came to his side. he whispered something, they nodded, and they all started to walk towards the convoy. Liquidus reached behind his back, and from an unseen holster, he got out two Katana's. As he got closer, he started to juggle them around, switch hands, and generally do an amazing, but scary sword display. But, he did't stop, and they were getting very close to the troops...

ooc: I'll get around to another post, no time at present, just letting you know I'm still watching this

Captain Herbert was not impressed by this display of hubris. Nonetheless, he had a direct order from Central Defense Command not to fire which was bound to his actions and not his emotional wavering. Warily, he eased his hands from the holster on his left calf, and loudly sighed.

Motioning to disarm, Herbert made sure each soldier removed the ammunition from their rifles and placed them in a small pile between them and the three APC's which remained as an escort. While the two squads of soldiers took up ready guard positions with weapons slung over their backs and hands at their sides, they stood at ready attention to follow their commander's solemn word and orders. As the lead member of the foreign group continued to flail his swords, a nearby sergeant turned to the Captain and began to speak rather frankly about the visitor's actions.

"I honestly don't know who this psychotic is, but he's liable to be shot sight on scene if he doesn't respect that we are here because of what has happened to us before. After all, we have an obligation to defend this nation from any aggressive action against us; by god if this isn't provocation then I don't know how our nation will survive in future encounters."

"You should have asked for my permission to speak freely sergeant, I don't tolerate such dissention from my men. We have our orders and we'll stick to them, even if our contacts seem to be less than willing to meet with us on the same terms. Now if these three don't understand our intentions with our weapons shouldered and disarmed, then they truly do not care for peace."

OOC: This will be my last post for a long time (two weeks or so) because I'm going on vacation. So I'll respond to this, but just to let you know, I am not abandoning this. So just try and do something with the delegates, etc. And see you all soon!

The Republic of Sharina would very much like to tour Schultaria Prime and learn about its history. We would also desire to contribute to Schultaria Prime in any way it can.

We eagerly await your response.

Live well,
President Rand Veristek


=====================
OOC:

Is it too late for me to join this RP? Let me know!

OOC: If OH MK II will not be around for two weeks, then we will continue the RP as if they have not arrived. Sharina, as long as you make the necessary post regarding your arrival I don't think there should be much of a problem.

We will continue the thread from the last thread before OH MK II made his first post. The tour will commence soon, and I hope to hear from all in an IC sense within the next few days.

-Outer Heaven, perhaps it might be best if we did this portion of the RP in another thread. I've been waiting to get this tour going for several weeks now; maybe our little "encounter" could take as soon as this tour has concluded.

ooc: This is really interesting stuff. Is there a thread that deals with the destruction of the original Eldaimovey that I could read for backstory? And what level technology do you play with Schultaria?

Oh, and finally, can I join, or am I too late?

OOC: As with Sharina, you may join too; just make sure to role play your arrival into Schultaria Prime and consider yourself already at the grounds of the International Visitor Center of Eldaimovey by the end of your post.

My technology level is roughly 2050 - 2100 in terms of highly advanced technologies, but for the nation's city construction and planning techniques: approximately 2035 - 2050.

The back stories (for all interested parties):

The beginning of a dream...
http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=320655

-First Contact with the Nations of Indra Prime, Arenumberg, Spacer Guilds, and a few other races who observed the earliest development of the Schultarian Space Program. The link located on first post is broken due to national homepage upgrade.


A clash of worlds...
http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=327550

-Set five years after "The beginning of a dream..." Schultaria Prime makes an international announcement to place a manned Schultarian presence in space. In a congratulatory effort, the Nations of Indra Prime, Spacer Guilds, and CorpSac arrived unexpectedly to greet the Schultarian People. Outer Haven MK II, because of their apparent hatred for Indra Prime, destroyed Eldaimovey to prevent their "interference" in our affairs which were created though purely indigenous effort.

ooc: I'll split it into two.


ic:


Encoded message from the Imperial capital of Sdaeriji


TO: Central Director Schultz, Schultaria Prime
FROM: Chairman Ilsuo Santite, Sdaeriji


Greetings Central Director Schultz. I have recently read news reports that your nation has finished rebuilding the research facility Eldaimovey. It is truly monumental that you have been able to rebound from such a devastating attack in such a short amount of time. If it pleases you, I would like to personally attend the rededication ceremony, with a delegation from the Imperial Dominion. Seeing as how Schultarian technology is such an essential part of the Dominion's defensive infrastructure, it would delight me greatly to get a first hand look at the technological research that Schultaria Prime is so famous for. It would also give us time to speak on a more personal, less affairs-of-state, level. I will depart from the Imperial capital within the week with a delegation of myself, my IDC Sedia Adiesa (whom I believe you've had extensive communication), my IAC General Guidell Fanter, and personal protection. I eagerly await the opportunity to meet you and tour your facility.

Respectfully,
Chairman Ilsuo Santite
Imperial Dominion of Sdaeriji

The Imperial Dominion delegation to Eldaimovey arrived in a MH-53E Sea Dragon from the I.S.S. Arianna lying off the coast of Schultaria Prime just after dawn. After the helicopter had safely touched down, the door opened and out poured ten soldiers, dressed in identical black and deep purple uniforms and wielding a vast array of firepower. They immediately scanned the area for potential risks to the Chairman.

"Gentlemen, put down your firearms. These people are friends. There's no need for all the security. I'll be fine," said the diminuative Chairman Santite as he exited the helicopter. The soldiers placed their rifles at their sides and stood at attention. Even at a slight 5'10", the Chairman had a commanding presence. He was a powerfully built man, with strong arms and a highly developed chest. He was dressed in an impeccably crafted fine suit. And his voice had a cutting quality that demanded attention.

"You'll have to excuse my Praetors," the Chairman said to the welcoming party, "but they're trained to care for my well-being with their lives. It's a hard habit to break."

While the Chairman spoke to the welcoming party, the other two members of the Imperial delegation, Imperial Defense Chairwoman Sedia Adiesa, and Imperial Army Chairman General Guidell Fanter, stepped out of the helicopter. The General was a different kind of commanding from the Chairman, standing at a skyscraping 6'10" and wearing countless medals and commendations on his uniform. Ms. Adiesa was a straight-laced young woman, obviously concerned with being taken seriously in a very male-dominated line of work. Her image was obviously cared for in delicate detail, with every aspect of her meant to convey a sense of no-nonsense. She had her dark brown hair tightly in a bun upon her head, and wore an extremely conservative businesswoman's blouse and skirt. Neither person looked like someone to be treated lightly.

"Right this way, Mr. Chairman. The tour hasn't quite started yet," the greeter said.

"Excellent. I do look forward to the rededication ceremony."

As the Praetors stayed behind at the helicopter, the Chairman, the General, and Ms. Adiesa walked behind the greeter down a long corridor which presumably led to where the rededication would be held.

Walking beside the Chairman, Ms. Adiesa whispered.

"So, what exactly happened here?" she asked.

"Oh, you don't know?" questioned Chairman Santite. "It's really quite an intriguing story. It all began, oh, about fifteen years ago...."

OOC: Well, that bit of nothing was an interesting delay :P Regardless I will try to pick up as seamlessly as possible.

IC:

Harold chuckled. Smiling he spoke to Elliot.
“Director even simply walking through the lobby has been a treat, but we’ll follow you to the conference room. Schedules do seem to smooth the wrinkles out of things like this.”

OOC: sorry I’ve been out of this mindset for a bit, don’t worry though I will be back in once we get rolling again

Devon Hussev looked out the window of his private jet at the large sea of clouds. The clouds seemed to actually become the ocean itself, with ripples and waves in their patterns.

I truly wonder about this Schultaria Prime nation. Is it a nation of free people? Capitalists? Communists? Anarchists? They may be different from us, but they have been friendly enough to initate exchanges with Sharina.

Devon closed his eyes, shutting out the stunning view of the ocean of clouds. He reclined his plush seat back, preparing to take a short nap. Before drifting off, Devon collected his thoughts once again.

I wonder if Schultaria Prime would be willing to participate in trade, cultural exchanges, and an alliance. Our nation certainly needs friends, and ones who share similiar ideologies as our nation.

Devon began to dream of his childhood residing in Lodis, the City Above The Clouds, and playing in its parks carved out of the mountainside.

Several hours later, the jet intercom beeped, bringing Devon out of his day-dreaming. He rubbed his eyes, wiping the last vestiges of his warm dreams from his present consciousness. Devon took a glance through the jet's windows, and saw a large metropolitan city bustling with cars on the interstate. He noticed a couple of civilian heliocopters hovering in the distance as a large modern airport grew larger and larger. He could make out a waiting convoy of limousines and several black suited men, presumably secret service or bodyguards.

It is time. I'm actually feeling a little nervous being all alone in a foreign nation I know almost nothing about. I wonder if Schultaria Prime is willing to accept my request to tour the nation.

The diplomat fastened his seatbelts, a few moments before the jet touched down on the smooth concrete runaway. Once the plane's hydraulics took effect, the bumping and shaking dissipiated as the plane taxied down the runaway towards the waiting convoy.

As the plane made its final approach towards the convoy, Devon unfastened his seatbelts, and then stood up smoothly. He noticed several creases on his diplomat uniform as a result of wearing the seatbelt. Devon then straightened out his uniform to make himself as presentable as possible.

After all, this is the first time they have laid eyes on a Sharian. It wouldn't do to have the Schultaria Prime convoy, or the delegate have a bad first impression of me or Sharina in general.

The private jet finally coasted to a stop right in front of the waiting Schultaria Prime convoy. Devon made his way towards the entrance hatch of the aircraft, as the pilot released the stairs leading to the ground. Devon saluted the pilot with a right fist to his own chest, then bowing his head down and back up.

This should prove interesting.

Devon put on his best smile and exited the plane. Upon exiting and making his way down the ladder-case, he waved his hand towards the several reporters and television camera-people being held behind a police barricade several dozen meters away.

The diplomat then turned his head towards the convoy. One of the men dressed in black suits opened a limosuine door. A man stepped out of the limosuine and took several paces towards Devon.

This must be one of Schultaria Prime's diplomats.

Devon walked towards the diplomat with a smile.

"Greetings. I am glad that the nation of Sharina was invited to Schultaria Prime. I am eager to tour and learn about your nation."

Devon extended out his left hand in a handshake.

-Merle / Leonn International Airport: Schultaria Prime, Schultaria Prime

"A distinct honor Mr. Hussev, I would like to welcome you to the nation of Schultaria Prime. Before we proceed, I would just like to say that it is a wonderful opportunity to meet a representative of Sharina in person..."

One of the members of the diplomatic party behind the ambassador cleared her throat, obviously attempting to remind the absent-minded greeter about his duties. After several repeated attempts the diplomat blushed, noting his faux pas in a less than subtle manner. Bowing respectfully in his pressed black pinstripe suit, he presented a small gift to the Sharinian delegate and spoke to him in low subservient, but well humored, tones.

"Forgive me for not following custom; it appears that with all the rush of excitement over Eldaimovey's rededication I have forgotten to properly address myself and my party. I am Angevin Ross, attaché for Director Harlen Damien and official ambassador of the capital city of Schultaria Prime. The diplomatic personnel behind me are some of the most noted professors from the University of Schultaria Prime system. With specialization in international policy and comparative culture, they'll be more than willing to answer any questions you may have regarding our nation, its cultural practices, or our structure of government. Though we are pressed for time, we would like to honor this occasion with a data pad containing the complete history of Schultaria Prime as currently interpreted by our most accredited historians.

Now, if you wouldn't mind following me, we will escort you to the Eldaimovey Advanced Research Laboratories so you may meet the heads of the Nation of Schultaria Prime. Gauging from our initial diplomatic contact, they will be more than delighted to meet you."

OOC:

How would you like me to proceed? Meet up the scientists and leaders at the Research Lab? Or ask the diplomat questions during the convoy ride?

I'd like to get a feel of Schultarian personality and feelings, so I can RP their reactions to Devon's questions.

Or should we do the RP like this:

RP post 1 = Devon ask a question.

RP post 2 = You answer, then ask Devon a question.

RP post 3 = Devon answers the question, then asks you another question.

And so forth?

Central Director Schultz spotted the delegation from Sdaeriji as he and the delegates from Nova Hope and Spacer Guilds were approaching the grand lobby stairway. Since he had not expected them for at least two hours, Elliot thought their promptness a wonderful surprise. Straightening his pinstriped business suit and fumbling with his glasses, Elliot stopped his diplomatic party to privately talk with them about the new arrivals they were sure to meet.

"I received word about an hour and a half ago that we will be expecting arrivals from the Nations of Sdaeriji and Sharina. Both of them have become rather integral trading partners with our nation and have expressed some interest in establishing a more permanent diplomatic contact with our government. I'm only telling you this because even though what I want to show you in the tour is of the utmost importance to all our nations, any international support can only serve to help us."

Turning around, Central Director Schultz began to approach the Sdaeriji delegates in deference to their stature as respected guests. Though tall by Schultarian standards, he still only reached 5' 9" in standard units and his features slightly softened due to a heavy diet of plain bread and meat. Concerned about his body language, Elliot took the time to make sure that his appearance was nothing less than respectable for all his guests. Fully satisfied with his appearance, he motioned for the Noviet and Guilder delegations to follow him if they wished while he addressed the newest arrivals.

"I thank you ever so much for coming to visit the pride of Schultaria Prime. I, as you probably know, am Central Director Schultz. Welcome to Eldaimovey."

BUMP for the parties involved.

"Ah, Director Schultz, it is an honor to finally meet you," spoke Santite as he grasped Schultz's right hand with both of his. "I am Chairman Santite of the Imperial Dominion. I have to say it is a delight to finally speak to you in person."

Santite stepped back and gestured to the tall man on his left. "Allow me to introduce the Chairman of the Imperial Army, General Guidell Fanter, and," as he gestured to the young woman on his right, "Chairwoman Sedia Adiesa of the Imperial Defense Commission. I do believe you've spoken extensively."

Ms. Adiesa spoke up. "It really is a pleasure to meet you, Director Schultz. I was hoping, once the tour was over, that we could perhaps discuss some of the plans for the Imperial Dominion in person. I'd love to hear some of the ideas that your researchers are coming up with for our nation's requests."

"Sedia, there will be plenty of time for that later." Santite adjusted his suit coat and tugged at his tie. "Please, I cannot wait to see the new facilities. I've been looking forward to this tour all week. Let us be off."

As the Sdaerijian delegation awaited the beginning of the tour, Santite found himself deep in thought. It truly is amazing how quickly these Schultarians have rebounded from such a disaster, he thought. To be able to recover from an attack like that is a testament to the resolve of Schultaria. Would we be able to rebound like they did? I wonder the strength of Sdaeriji.

Elliot smiled broadly, his glasses glinting in the bright sun from the vaulted glass ceiling of the Grand Lobby and confidently shook the hand of Chairman Santite. He motioned all of the delegates towards the finely polished black granite stairway which seemed to flow and merge with the ribbons of stone that made the seamless natural setting of the Visitor Center. As the delegates made their way across the one hundred or so meters between the grand entrance and the staircase, Central Director Schultz paused and turned his head upwards towards the massive paintings on the eastern and western walls. Holding back his emotions, he quietly spoke...

"Over nine thousand died here. All of them had families, friends, stories, hopes, dreams, and the grateful support of a nation who desires nothing more than the pursuit of science and understanding through technology. Every time I look at these four story tributes I can scarcely believe that our nation has been able to afford such a loss or that we ever were attacked in the first place."

He leveled his head and bowed deeply to his guests. Though normally reserved about formality and etiquette, Elliot knew that this event was perfect to cement any loose ties from the nation's diplomatic corps. Brushing his hands, the Central Director and guests made their way to the grand stairwell while still taking time to observe the Grand Lobby.

"Before we ascend to the fourth floor to await any other guests in the main conference room I must now tell you that what you are about to see on this tour could alter the very nature of all of our societies as we know them today. For the interests of Schultarian law, as well as to prevent an incident such as the [shudder] ...Contact Day Massacre, I implore each and every one of you not to divulge what our nation has planned for you to see. Now, if you will follow me, we will wait for our fellow guests from the nation of Sharina."

BUMP for the parties involved.

ooc: Should we be waiting for Sharina, or can we proceed without him/her?

OOC: Hye guys I'm abck!

OOC: Sorry. I've been busy lately, getting ready to move back to college to finish my final semester there.

I'll be posting my IC posts in Schultaria's new thread.... http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=353456