NationStates Jolt Archive

It was between wars for the Abh Empire. The Shadows had been soundly defeated by a joint of effort of her allies and the Angelic War had not yet begun that would throw the Emperor back into the battlefield along side an old ally.

The 29th Emperor Dusanyu had recently been on an interesting exploration mission with a nation that showed similarities to the Abh Empire only in technology and the citizens it kept. They joined together in search of a lost civilization that connected the Abh of the Empire and the Abh that lived within Xanthal. The search was a failure but that was besides the point. What had been a success was the opening of talks between the two governments and now they would come together to continue the talks but this would now be a formal diplomatic meeting.

The Emperor spent time going over possible locations for the conference to take place. The orbiting capital of Lakfakalalae had been turned into a fortress that would not appear very hospitable to a foreign diplomat. He began going over other locations that were controlled by royalty and other nobles. His solution came in the form of Lord Rahl. His nation had its own culture that was separate from that of the Abh and offered a more grandeur scenary.

The People's Palace of D'Hara would prove quite a nice location. The message went out from the capital of Lakfakalalae.
To The People's Government of Xanthal
From The Abh Empire

I would like to formally extend a hand to you to begin diplomatic talks between our two nations. Our two people worked together well side by side in the search for Aellis so I take hope that our two nations will work together just as well as the two crews of our ships.

If you agree to this, then please make your way to the LaBorsh gate in Plane Space to the planet of Neo D'Hara. The diplomacy will take place down on the planet. You may choose any ship at your discretion since we will have the area well secure to protect your diplomat.

The 29th Emperor Dusanyu of the Jade Throne~

Preparations had been made both in orbit and down on the planet. Victory Destroyers along with Attack Vessels of the Roil class, Patrol Ships of the Roth class, and Guarships patroled the area.

Down in the People's Palace of D'Hara, everything was being taken care of by Lord Rahl's attendants. Food and drink were being prepared as were accomodations in rooms should they be needed.

Richard did not know if he would be able to attend the meeting or not though since his wife Kahlan was now pregnant and she was showing. He tired himself out from running from her room to around the palace making sure that everything was prepared for the Emperor and the diplomats.

Dusanyu's flagship the Sankakue glided out of the Sord and into orbit where he would remain to await the diplomats.

It takes some time for communications to run back and forth between the Empire and the Republic. First, a rather harried Alphin sends a request for navigation information on the LaBorsh gate, a term that does not correlate with the Xanthalians' system of simply numbering sords. Then there are technical matters as democracies often insist upon. The process goes smoothly, especially considering the political warfare going on in the Republic that has been competing with international issues for the Lanalphini's attention, and a diplomat is dispatched just over two days from the transmission of the Empire's original message.

Zoe Michaels has been piloting calickes for the Ministry of Transportation for ten years, and that's Xanthalian time. The twenty year-old woman, sixty-four by the standard calendar, is no stranger to diplomatic runs, but even she is taken aback as she pilots KKPZ-5515 through Sord 21813 and into orbit of what her computer has identified as her objective: Neo D'Hara. She is reminded of the Xanthalian Labule's annual fleet parade by the small armada the ship's sensors and her own eyes behold. "Uki vizios ninesios biyuru total," she says to herself, a habit she has had for as long as she can recall.

Unsure who to contact and wishing to avoid any confrontation with the foreign fleet, she activates an open transmission as the small shuttle passes barely a kilometer under the bow of an Imperial destroyer patrolling near the sord. "This is Xanthalian Ministry of Transportation vessel 5515, on official assignment from the Socialist Republic of Xanthal. Request instructions for delivery of diplomatic representative." Zoe, otherwise not much of a Standard speaker, delivers the familiar line clearly. It is one of several statements that have been indelibly etched into her memory by hundreds of repetitions. As the calicke glides into orbit with a few skillful firings of its thrusters, she prepares to consult her shipboard translator for the rest of what she hopes, as usual, will be a short conversation.

The open communication was received by all but the only ship that answered came from the Sankakue.

Kenesh walked up to the Emperor's side. "Well it seems like you get to play diplomat again."

Dusanyu smirked as he looked over at her. "Yes and I only get to play Emperor for a few more years and then it's off to other fields for me to pursue."

Kenesh knew what he was talking about. Dusanyu had already fulfilled one stage of an Abh's life,serving in Star Forces. He was left with the other two of working as a merchant and becoming a parent. Kenesh didn't push the matter not wanting to find out any more.

The Emperor leaned over the rail. "Keirn've. It's time."

Keirn've pulled his Alpha out and turned over the chair to the pilot trainee that was with them on the mission for Aellis. She had grown some but still maintained the energy of a rookie.

Dusanyu looked back to Kenesh with a grin. "I'll be back. Don't get too lonely."

Kenesh balled her fists at her hips and glared about the same time a reddish hue spread on her cheeks. That only made the Emperor smile even more as he left with Keirn've.

Shortly after a small communications shuttle dropped out of the Sankakue. It pulled up short about ten kilometers from the Xanthal Calicke. "Vessel 5515, you will follow us down to the planet."

There is a long pause, then "KKPZ-5515 acknowledges instruction and declares intent to comply. Awaiting flightpath and landing coordinate data." Aside from an obvious accent, Zoe's tenor voice carries clearly across the channel.

In the cockpit of the calicke, the slight but strong woman begins making preparations for atmospheric entry and landing. She activates the intercom to the rear compartment with her left hand as she occupies her right with powering up the ship's auxiliary stabilizers. "Zeki astios kanlios ak nahen desios. Sueetanios cil to hoon."

Keirn've began transmitting the coordinates to the planet from the communications shuttle. This shuttle was a slight modification from those of Patrol Ships since this shuttle was capable of landing without removing the main engines.

The upload was complete and if the calicke was compatible for it, small rectangles would light up on the screen to show the way for entering the atmosphere and to land at the targeted area. In any case, all grounds were covered with relaying the coordinates to the calicke.

"Vessel 5515, you are to proceed on coordinates 9-3-4 to the planet surface. Follow our lead and please land on landing pad RED."

The small shuttle began it's approach to the atmosphere using the markers that ship's computer lit up.

Fortunately, especially since Zoe is not familiar with the coordinate system and terms her instructor are using, the small Xanthalian vessel accepts the data upload and plots an appropriate flightpath. The human takes a minute to admire the planet from orbit as she moves the ship into position for its decent, allowing the Abh shuttle to get well ahead of them. Then she inputs some final commands as she addresses her charge again on intraship. "Idosai zjaf." Then the ship begins its leisurely decent through the atmosphere.

The small shuttle descends into the atmosphere as the belly of the ship begins to glow. Artificial gravity was shut off and the anti-matter was put into stasis for navigating within the confines of the atmosphere.

They were heading down to a fairly large continent dotted with mountain ranges and much of the area appeared green from the high altitude. Another large land mass was connected to the northern one but what would only like a small sliver of land from so high up.

The communication shuttle headed for the eastern most part of the northern continent. Their destination came into view and the birds eye view gave them a great layout of what could only be described as a castle. The People's Palace was located on top of a plateau and the building was intricatly designed into a pentagram shape with many crossing sections until they met in the middle. A line surrounded the area on high that would soon reveal a wall once on the ground. At the foot of the plateau rested many of the housing quarters. The only way into the People's Palace from there was climbing the stairs that were carved within the plateau. Thankfully Zoe wouldn't have to traverse them.

The upper plateau was their destination and a large flat grassland stretched out for miles. The landing pads were located down near the wall and were color coordinated with the color being on the edges. Keirn've told Zoe to land on pad RED which so happen to be colored red. Quite a simple method which hopefully would leave very little room for confusion. The communications shuttle landed on a pad that was outlined in blue.

Outside the wall and gate stood four figures and at the moment they could be discerned as one man and three women.

The calicke, equipped only for controlled velocity atmospheric flight, proceeds much more slowly and takes several minutes to appear overhead before centering about one hundred meters over the pad and slowly falling to the ground in a storm of thruster exhaust, landing squarely on its four struts, which extend barely a foot down from the body of the craft like stocky legs. Michaels powers down the ship's navigation and propulsion systems, then checks external sensors to ensure the outside atmosphere is satisfactory. With that out of the way, she punches in a command to open the rear compartment to the outside. "Thas elivali, Eedil," she calls a final farewell into the intercom.

The door, a single thick sheet at the aft of the small vessel, slides sideways into a recess in the hull. There are no stairs, so the man-sized bug creature that emerges from the door simply hops down the final meter to the ground. It is 168 centimeters tall and has a bright silver exoskeleton, mostly covered by a well-tailored uniform. The creature takes a deep breath, though for anyone present the only indication is a high-pitched hiss, and surveys the surroundings briefly with its compound eyes. Then the creature straightens and stands in place, waiting for further guidance as the door of the calicke shuts behind it.

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Xanthalian diplomatic attire:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v88/Zorak950/NS/Diplomat.jpg

Than (alternate color):
http://www.sadgeezer.com/andromeda/images/than-002.jpg

Dusanyu turned to Keirn've. "Go ahead and take the ship back and get it refueled. There is no use in you staying around."

"That's too bad. I thought I might enjoy a bit of the life around here."

The Emperor laughed and quickly jumped out the rear ramp and onto the grass near the pad. The ship launched a blast of air as it lifted from the pad and Dusanyu give one last salute before heading over to the diplomat.

Dusanyu gave a curt bow to Eedil. "Hello, I am Emperor Dusanyu. Pleased to meet you...?"

As the ship left orbit, they found themselves lucky. It all started right after break of orbit, when a rather large slipspace opening emerged by the small planet. Keirn've wondered what kind of fleet was need to make one that big. There was no military fleet coming, nor where any that big. Also, a deplomat never could have that size eontourage. Keirn've contacted Lakfakalalae, who had the same questions. All ships scuttled; Star Command had never ordered even a small ship to come to Lakfakalalae in 30 days. Emperor Dusanyu was contacted, and ordered the orgin of the slipspace opening. Star Command signaled him back with a strange set of coordantes. This was the hypothised area of the "lost civilatsion" Keirn've looked into the Slipspace opening as the huge fleet poured through it. The Ships looked like nothing he'd seen before. They looked more like sharks then warships; on the underside purple lights were visible. One other thing; the smallest of them were at least 3x the size of the biggest capital ships of Star Forces. Less then 15 sec. later, they opened fire on the all they ships in view.

As the slaughter ensuwed, The huge mother ship of the fleet started to fire up a stange gun; Keirn've got huge EMP readings off of it.
"O God no-"

He was interrupeted by the shot of the cannon, and the strange silence ruled as the strange electic "ball" flew across space and smacked into Lakfakalalae. At the time of impact, all the city lights went off. Keirn've punched in coordanites for Ghajkdon, The Star Command headquarters of the Universe, to warn of the new invaders.

As he looked before entering slipspace, he saw the massive alien fleet launch millions, it seemed like, of bording craft at Lakfakalae and to his complete horror, the movement of the alien fleet through the rubble of the Star Forces local fleet and fire that rained down from the fleets guns to the planet itself. He could see the planet's lakes, rivers, and oceans vaporized. Fields and forests were glassy smooth and growing red-hot in patches.
Where there had once been a paradise, only hell remained.

"You as well," the Than's translator broadcasts in Galactic Standard over its clicks and chirps, an identifiably electronic voice but reasonably flowing for a portable device. "I am Promise of Love's Future. You may call me Promise. I give you the thanks of the Triumvirate for your invitation, Emperor."

"Their thanks are appreciated. Allow me to escort you into the city and then to the palace where we may begin our discussion." The Emperor turned and gestured for Promise to follow him.

The stone wall rose high into the air with expert mason work on the crenulated walls. Square towers held siege weapons ranging from Trebuchets to large ballistas. D'Haran soldiers could be seen patrolling the top of the wall with halberds and bows that resembled that of the mongols which were more powerful than the English longbow. Their leather armor was molded to their bodies and every soldier carried at least one other weapon.

The four figures came into view more clearly and they looked nothing like anything within the Empire. The four stood out in front of a closed wooden gate with two smaller square towers on each side.

Richard Rahl was there in a black sleeveless shirt with black breeches and brown leather boots. His golden cape tossed in the wind. His leather balric went from his right shoulder where it came to a rest at his right hip. His sword rested in it's black sheath while the golden stinsled word "TRUTH" reflected in the waning D'Haran sun. The man stood at six foot five inches with short brown hair and piercing blue eyes. His raptor gaze followed the Emperor but eventually softened when he came closer.

Ever at his side was his wife Kahlan Amnell. The woman stood a foot shorter than her husband. She wore a simple white dress that went all the way down to mid calf but it did nothing to dimish her beauty even with her belly beginning to show the signs of pregnancy. Her long brown hair went straight down to her hip while her brown eyes sparkled looking out.

The two Mord-Sith stood behind them in form fitting brown leather. Cara stood to Richard's right with her long blond braid slung over her back and cold blue eyes following the two all the way. Unlike Richard, her visage did not soften. Rikka stood at the other side with her brown braid running down her left shoulder. Her expression was much the same except her green eyes were folling the duo. Cara stood a little taller than Rikka at five foot seven inches. Each had a thin leather rod hanging at their wrist by a golden chain.

All four gave the D'Haran salute with their right fist thumping against their heart followed by a bow when the ambassador stood before them.

The Than returns the bow with as much grace as its stiff body allows. It straightens quickly and looks back at the Emperor.

Dusanyu looked to the Than. "May I introduce Lord Rahl and his wife Kahlan at his side along with their body guards and close personal friends Mord-Sith Cara and Rikka." The Emperor pointed to each member in turn.

"And may I introduce Promise of Love's Future."

Lord Rahl returned a bow after hearing the Than's name. "I welcome you to the People's Palace of D'Hara ambassador."

"Thank you for your hospitality, Lord," Eedil replies.

There were several sentries standing over the gatehouse watching the small meeting. Richard turned around and gave a wave to signal that the large wooden door should be open.

The sound of iron clicking as the locking mechanisms slid out of place and the sound of wood sliding against as a large log was moved away. The gate swung in pulled by four soldiers in leather armor with two on each part of the door.

Lord Rahl bade them all to follow him as he swept beyond the threshold. The gate sentries all saluted in the D'Haran fashion and kept their heads bowed as the new arrivals passed by.

The part of the city they were passing through held very few homes. It contained mostly barracks, weapon smiths, armories, and other shops for the military. The layout was well organized with paved streets running down the center and in between each shop for carts to pass easily through. It wasn't until they reached the second wall and passed by did they see more life in the city.

The same cobblestone streets lined the court as it circled around a large fountain that had a variety of fish swimming by. The sun reflected off their multicolored scales as they came to the surface everynow and then.

Grass was a light green at this altitude and the gentle breeze pushed blades back and forth almost giving it a varietable look of a sea of green. The buildings were made from solid stone and would accomodate any well to do lord and wealthy merchant with shingled roofs and beautiful wooden doors.

Most residents thought that this was Lord Rahl's favor on them but it couldn't be further from the truth. If the castle was going to be assaulted, then this was the first place and that is why every soldier's family along with every peasant or individual not that well off were in the safest location.

A procession of about thirty D'Haran soldiers in leather armor was lead by a man that stood a few inches taller than Lord Rahl himself and wore a green cape. He had an assortment of weapons attached on various belts.

Richard smiled as the man approached. "Ah General Meiffert good to see you again."

The young man, if you could believe it, smiled and saluted. "We are glad to have you back as well Lord Rahl. The First Phial has come to escort you the rest of the way."

"I suppose you were to busy to come and escort him from the front gate then."

Meiffert looked over to Cara. "My apologies Mistress Cara but you know how Lord Rahl is. He goes off without telling anyone."

Cara smiled. "And that is why the Mord Sith are better than any soldiers protecting the Lord Rahl."

Richard had heard just about enough of the banter and signaled for General Meiffert's men to fall in behind them. The General himself took up a position next to Cara who happened to be off to Richard's left. If someone payed close attention, they would have noticed the subtle touches that the two were sharing and the Mord-Sith's visage had visibly softened.

The Xanthalian proceeds along with the growing group, taking in its surroundings silently.

The People's Palace rose up from the ground and the cobble road rose up to meet it. The palace had many flags and banners flying out near the entrance and the newest edition was of the Gaftonoshu eight headed mythical dragon, the crest of the Abh Empire.

The inside had a cozy glow to it from the natural light and the soft fire dancing in iron torches along the stone walls. The front was empty for the most part and the halls branched off in three directions. This was Richard's home afterall and went straight.

The walls were lined with many tapestries. Some were in the forms of medieval battles on grand scales from long ago. D'Haran soldiers could be seen marching uniformly in columns with their banners held high flapping in the wind as they were lead by a single man who was the Lord Rahl of that time. Other paintings were of far off landscapes and majestic landscapes with clouds shrouding the peaks and lush forests at the base.

Statues were located in an outlet every so often with a glass ceiling so the sun could shine down. They were all designed to make the common man feel better about himself and depict the granduer and nobility of the human race. One such marble statue had a man and woman standing next to each other as they shared the a grip on a large golden scepter. Both bodies were in physical peakness and Richard and Kahlan both shared a grin with each other once they passed it. (http://home.in.tum.de/~hohenber/images/bg/fantasy/faith_of_fallen.jpg)

There were many such statues lining just this single extremely long hall until they made it to the center of pentagram palace. Here was a large conference like hall with many tiers and wooden chairs. In the center was a large oak circular table with chairs placed around it.

Richard swept his arms around. "This is where many diplomats would have come to discuss matters with D'Hara in the past. We now only entertain one diplomat so I hope just using this simple wooden table is good enough. I thought it might keep things closer and less intimidating. Behind where Richard was standing was a dias where the Lord Rhal would be seated at the center of the delegation.

He gestured to a chair. "Please sit."

The Than seats itself in the indicated chair, with a nod of acknowledgment to Richard. It pulls a slim datapad from its hip pocket and sets this on the table.

With a nod from Richard, the guards leave the room except for those that position themselves at the entrance of every hall. "Cara, you haven't had some rest in quite a while. Why don't you go and head back to your chambers."

She looks taken aback. "But Lord Rahl, who will stay here with you? Surely you don't expect this muscle bound apes to be enough protection."

That brought a grunt from the General who was still in the room but Richard smiled. "Rikka will stay with me. Besides, there will be nothing to worry about. What you think I am uncapable of protecting myself." His hand went to the hilt of his sword to accentuate the point.

That took the steam away from her argument. "No."

"Then go and get some rest. You may return after you have slept."

Cara looked over to Rikka pleadingly. "Please watch him. He's a quick one so you'll have to be on your toes."

Rikka nodded her head and crossed her arms as she fixed her eyes on Richard. He sighed and then after Cara left, looked to Meiffert. "General Meiffert, while I do appreciate your company and the support you give, it has been sometime since you have been off duty. You have been commanding the palace in my absence. Take a leave of absence for this day."

"Lord Rahl are you sure you want to be alone with a Mord-Sith?"

Rikka stuck her tongue out at him which brought a chuckle from Lord Rahl but before he could answer, Kahlan wrapped her arms around his waist and leaned her head on his shoulder. "I'll protect the Lord Rahl in your absence General."

Meiffert smiled and then saluted one last time to the company. Coincidentally or perhaps not, he left the same way Cara had left. This now only left the Emperor, Kahlan, Richard, and Rikka with the Than to take care of the proceedings though hardly all would even voice their opinion. Especially Rikka who would take a reclusive approach to the meeting.

Richard sat directly across from the Than while Kahlan sat at his right side and Rikka on his left. Dusanyu sat to Kahlan's left so as to be a bit closer to the ambassador and wouldn't have to be worry about an aura of separation being present in the room.

Richard looked over after finally adjusting his cape and sword and making sure his wife was fine. "Would you like anything to drink or eat Promise? We have a variety of wines, fruit juices, or even water if you would like."

"Water is acceptable, thank you."

Richard nodded and a glass along with a chilled silver pitcher with an ice in it was brought to the table in front of the Than. A glass of red wine was brought to the Emperor while Richard took a small fruit juice in a wooden mug while Kahlan politly refused anything for herself at the moment.

Dusanyu took a quick sip from his glass and then placed a holo pad in the middle of the table. "This will be for any visual aids that we will be required during our meeting."

The Emperor sat back down and sighed. Always the toughest part of being a diplomat was trying to figure out how to start these proceedings and truth be told, Dusanyu hated being a diplomat. "Well ambassador Promise, as a military officer I was never one to beat around the bush so I would like to ask you what you would like to get out of this diplomatic meeting? Or better yet, what would you government like from this meeting?"

Eedil pours the clear liquid into the drinking vessel, being careful to keep the ice in the pitcher. It leaves the glass on the table to warm. "You called this meeting, so the Xanthalian government's goals are fairly limited. There has been, however, a proposition floating around the higher levels of the Republic for some time. I was instructed to bring it here and ask you to sign it into law on behalf of your government. Lanalphin Lawrence has assured me that, if you agree to its terms, the Socialist Republic will follow suit." It pushes its datapad over to Dusanyu. "This is the official text, written in Galactic Standard. I require that device, so I would appreciate it if you would copy it into your own records promptly. On behalf of the Lanalphini, I ask that you consider the proposal favorably."

The text display reads as follows:

==Article 1. Preamble==

This document and all its contents shall be known as the International Planespace Tactical Security Agreement, IPTSA or proper translation thereof, hereafter Agreement.

==Article 2. Definitions==

Section 1.
Any entity, group, individual, nation, state or other sentient being or conglomeration thereof having possession of or access to the ability, information, knowledge or technology to detect, enter, scan or travel through the dimension generally known as planespace, hereafter Planespace, is, for the purposes of this Agreement, an Equipped Party, plural Equipped Parties.

Section 2.
Any entity, group, individual, nation, state or other sentient being or conglomeration thereof not fulfilling any of the criteria listed in Section 1 of this Article 2 is, for the purposes of this Agreement, an Unequipped Party, plural Unequipped Parties.

Section 3.
Transfer of information or an object from one party to another in any form is, for the purposes of this Agreement, Released to that party, verb Releasing. Releasing an item consists only of allowing access to the item in any form to another party. This includes all instances, regardless of any compensation or the absence thereof and regardless of whether actual ownership of the item in question is transferred.

Section 4.
Any Equipped Party that agrees to be legally bound by the provisions of this Agreement through legal and official approval by that Equipped Party or a party of that Equipped Party with the legal authority to approve it on behalf of the Equipped Party is, for the purposes of this Agreement, a Signatory, plural Signatories.

Section 5.
Equipped Parties within the legal jurisdiction of another Equipped Party can not be Signatories if that Equipped Party is a Signatory, but they will be held to the Agreement’s terms.

==Article 3. Information nondisclosure agreements==

Section 1.
No information on the nature of Planespace, including information on energy patterns and layouts as well as any chart or guide of Planespace, shall be released by an Equipped Party to an Unequipped Party.

Section 2.
No information on the points of transit between Planespace and other dimensions or universes, hereafter Sords, including information on composition and location of Sords, shall be released by an Equipped Party to an Unequipped Party.

==Article 4. Equipment confidentiality agreements==

Section 1.
No technology necessary for or unique to the construction of equipment that can be used to enter, navigate, and/or travel through Planespace or Sords shall be released by an Equipped Party to an Unequipped Party, nor shall be any equipment or other object containing such a technology, nor shall be any equipment that can be used to enter, navigate, and/or travel through Planespace or Sords in and of itself.

Section 2.
No equipment capable of constructing in any form any technology specified in Section 1 of this Article 4 shall be released by an Equipped Party to an Unequipped Party.

Section 3.
No information on the equipment or technology specified in Section 1 of this Article 4 or in Section 2 of this Article 4 shall be released by an Equipped Party to an Unequipped Party.

==Article 5. Security==

Section 1.
In the interest of protecting the security of Equipped Parties and controlling the spread of planespace-related information and technologies, all Equipped Parties that are not Signatories shall be considered Security Risks by all Signatories.

Section 2.
Signatories that willfully violate one or more provisions of this Agreement shall have their Signatory status revoked and become Security Risks.

Section 3.
Signatories that, through action or inaction of a party under their jurisdiction, violate one or more provisions of this Agreement shall take independent action to ensure any resulting Security Risks are contained. A Signatory Vote will be held one standard month after the violation(s) to determine if the actions taken by the violating Signatories have adequately addressed those Security Risks. If the vote determines that they have not adequately addressed the Security Risks, the violating Signatories shall have their Signatory status revoked and become Security Risks.

Section 4.
All Security Risks shall be compelled to abide by the terms of this Agreement by any and all necessary means as decided by Signatory Vote.

Section 5.
It is the responsibility of all Signatories to see that Security Risks are contained and eliminated; whether or not they fall under the explicit provisions of this Agreement.

==Article 6. Collective decision-making==

Section 1.
All Signatories can be compelled to take collective action to contain and eliminate Security Risks by majority approval in a Signatory Vote, in which each Signatory shall have one vote. Each vote shall be assigned to whatever party the appropriate legal authority of the Signatory holding that vote shall dictate.

Section 2.
Any Signatory may call for a Signatory Vote on a proposal, which that Signatory must explicitly state, at any time.

Section 3.
No later than twenty-four hours after a Signatory Vote is called, the Signatory calling the vote must have notified all other Signatories by individually-addressed telegrams or, if that is not possible, any other reasonable means available. If this is not done, any resulting decision on the Signatory Vote is void.

Section 4.
Each Signatory Vote shall last eight standard days real time. When the voting period ends, the votes cast shall be tallied. Members not voting within that period of time shall not be counted in the Signatory Vote.

Section 5.
The tally of each Signatory Vote shall be kept in a public forum, in which each Signatory shall explicitly and publicly state their vote for the record. Proposals approved by a majority in a Signatory Vote shall be Decisions.

Section 6.
All Signatories must abide by Decisions regardless of their individual circumstance or opinion. All Signatories that do not abide by Decisions are Security Risks.

Dusanyu took the padd and linked the two together and began downloading the information. It was quite an impressive drawn up document but there was just one matter that needed to be resolved before the final say could be given.

"I have one question before I give my answer. What would the Socialist Republic of Xanthal feel about creating artificial Sords for the easement of Planespace travel to regions where there are no Sords?"

Promise folds its bony hands together as it reclaims its datapad. "I suggest you allow yourself more time to consider the document before you reach a conclusion at all. As to your question, to my limited knowledge such an achievement is not possible. If you are implying that your people have developed such technology, I do not expect it will concern the Xanthalian government unless it is used to attack or otherwise damage the Republic."

"Then the Republic need not fear anything since there are few that use such technology and the United Mankind has been virtually eliminated and brought under our control."

The Emperor leaned back in the chair as he took a drink and then set his glass back down on the table. "While we are on the subject, would it be possible to share maps of the Sords known to you along with our own? I ask because we may both benefit knowing new gates."

"It is not possible. Xanthalian law is quite clear that both frasas technology and navigational equipment, including sord maps, are sensitive information. It is of paramount importance to the security of the Republic that these matters remain classified. While the benefits of a joint mapping effort are not lost on me, that the Empire posesses similar technology does not excuse an exception to current policy."

Dusanyu rested his head on his right fist as he closed his eyes. "I was not asking for sensitive gate locations from your maps considering the fact that I myself would not share certain locations with your government as well. But I understand the desire for secrecy."

The Emperor shifted positions with his head. "The point is no longer worth discussing anymore. I believe we should move this beyond the discussion of planespace now and look to matters that concern our nations. Our Empire is fairly self sustaining with a large surplus of goods. Besides military aspects, the Abh are heavy businessmen and I would not doubt that many would like to open trade with your nation. However I would understand if this is something else you would like to remain closed."

"The Republic is open to trade; and frequently exports and imports goods. However, you should be aware that a fifty percent import tariff on all non-unique and non-emergency goods will be put in place early February the year after next standard time. Free trade, after that point, will not be possible. If your people are willing to pay the necessary taxes however, they will be as welcome as ever to continue doing business across Xanthalian borders."

The Emperor opened his eyes slightly at that. "That is a fairly high tariff on imports. I can't imagine that many would be too happy about that burden being placed."

Richard had sat back listening for the majority of the time but it was becoming apparent that his highness was slightly aggitated. "What goods would your people need so we could motify our imports to fit you needs.?"

"Not as high as some. However, it is up to the individual whether the transaction is worth the cost." The Than dips its pincer-like mouth into the glass and works its mandibles as it takes a drink. The tall, narrow vessel is really inappropriate for the procedure, but Eedil has become used to drinking from glasses where a bowl is not available. It straightens after a few seconds of this, a few drips coming off its beak and falling into its lap. Promise doesn't seem to mind, turning her head and fixing her compound eyes on Richard. "The Republic imports many things. What would be appropriate for potential business partners depends entirely upon their individual needs. Among the largest import markets are the entertainment and food industries. However, competition in the entertainment sector is high and there is little room for short-term growth."

Richard nodded as he looked back to the Emperor. "Perhaps I did not make myself clear. I am aware that not all nations are capable to keep up with the demands of their people in the food market. This nation has in every case given food to help alleviate that problem and to take the pressure off local citizens."

Dusanyu chimed in as well. "I suppose a few specialties from the Empire can be sent by merchants though we don't exactly specialize in entertainment. We have our on version of it and doubt it would sell well to others."

Eedil tilts its head. "I am sorry Lord, I believe we have had a miscommunication. Would you please rephrase what you just said?"

"Of course. What I was trying to ask is are there any resources that your nation cannot produce to sustain your people? We have made alliances with other nations that depend heavily on food imports to feed their populace since their planets are not that fertile. We do not take advantage of this situation since we produce large surpluses of food stuffes. I was inquiring if your nation had such needs."

Eedil nods. "I appreciate that, Sir. The Republic, in fact, has the necessary infrastructure to sustain itself. The issue is simply one of individual taste. Foods not available in Xanthal will be excluded from the items taxed under the new import law, so it is a free market sector. I am certain Xanthalian businesspeople would be happy to take your goods free of charge, but there is no need for you to provide them thus."

Richard smiled. "Those goods are only provided cheaply if your planet is in need of it. I doubt the merchants would give up their goods for free if they didn't have to."

Dusanyu set his glass back down to engage in the conversation again. "Then perhaps we should discuss trade routes so your government knows where to expect us."

"The only established planespace routes known to the Republic are its own. The routes you take in planespace are not likely to be of any concern. A more important matter to the Republic is the mechanics of sord use. A standardized system of normal space to planespace and planespace to normal space transit times must be implemented if collisions are to be avoided. Every moment that one does not exist is a danger to both our states' people and ships."

The Emperor shrugged. "Well I imagine that a scheduled time wingow for our transport and merchant ships can be arranged. That may have to be agreed upon by them at a later time though since I'm sure they have their belief at what time is the best time to do business."

The Than's look hardens, though it's hard to say how considering her features are all but immoble. "This is a matter of safety Emperor. We must reach an agreement that both countries can agree to abide by unconditionally if any normal transit between our respective nations is to occur."

"Then to make the merchants happy, I imagine that the earliest time possible be given and then leave at the end of business hours so they can have a full day of business."

"The Republic currently operates on a five-minute Xanthalian time rotation beginning at the start of each Xanthalian day; five minutes for ships coming from planespace, then five minutes for ships coming from normal space. This is a set schedule that, when properly adhered to, ensures that no collisions occur between ships travelling through sords. Would the Empire be willing to adopt that system?"

The Emperor sat back for a moment. "That will complicate things a bit. We would have to inform every merchant and upload schedules to them. Though this all could have been more difficult without our clyunos. You must understand that this would take some time to adopt everywhere because that means our Sord regulations would have to change as well."

"I am only suggesting the system most desirable to the Republic. This can be negotiated, but some universal system should be adopted to ensure safety for people and property. Do you have a counterproposal?"

"At the moment, no I do not. I really don't see any reason why such a proposal should be negotiated. One nation will already have change the way it goes about it's travels, no need to make it two. The change will be made but it will take time."

"That is very much appreciated. I will inform my superiors of your extraordinary cooperation. If it is possible, please provide me with a timetable for implementation before I depart. If not, you may inform the Xanthalian executive office through official channels."

"I'm afraid I won't be able to adopt the time table until after you leave so I shall inform you superiors through the proper channel. But to alleviate any worries, I won't allow any transports to depart for your nation."

The Emperor sighed and finally settled in again. "Since we have been talking about this nation so much, I believe we should change focus for a moment. Does Xanthal wish to open trade within our borders?"

The Than pours more water into her glass, topping it off. "I will require a copy of your nation's trade policies and criminal code as it can be applied to foreigners before I can answer that question accurately."

Dusanyu raised a brow. "If your trade remains in space then there will be no problems. You are free to either set up your shops within the capital itself that is after you go through inspection and do not sell weapons of any kind. This is the largest orbiting city though there are a few more and the same applies there. Or you could simply sell your goods to a merchant who will in turn sell it on our market. I would recommend the first option to avoid tarrifs. Criminal policies are fairly stiff. Are you familiar with Abh Hell inacted by the 11th Emperor Dougenn?"

"Xanthal is familiar with very little regarding the Empire. I am not at all familiar with your criminal codes."

"Well then I'm afraid I must bore you with a histroy lesson. The Abh have always been hated, not because of our military or of our culture or anything like that. We were once hated because we created to be machinary for deep space exploration in the early years of the Milky Way Galaxy. We were originally organic machinary. You will not find this information anywhere and it is only passed down orally through the families.

The 11th Emperor Dougenn asked a scientist to create a system that was beyond anything ever seen before. The man who created the system is still unknown but there are a few theories floating around about who was capable of creating such a device. In any case the Emperor took the shame upon himself for the creation.

The idea behind Abh Hell is to act as a detterent to anyone who would so desire to harm an Abh. It has kept our merchants safe for years now. It is design to bring the darkness of science to the very soul of all beings through painful torture. If something were to happen to one of our merchants in your nation, we would ask that they be handed over to us so that they may properly contemplate the consequences of their actions. There is no contestation in this and we are not prejudice on who we punish if one of ours is harmed."

Rikka had a smile on her face throughout the description. "I like this Abh Hell. Perhaps I could watch a session."

Richard turned a glare on the Mord-Sith and thumped her on the head. Rikka rubbed the top of her head. "Maybe not."

Eedil is not fazed much by this. It's been in this business for a while, and if there's one thing you learn in diplomacy it is to keep a level head. "The Xanthalian Constitution would likely forbid our judiciary from standing by and allowing a Xanthalian citizen to be tortured. If torture is involved, the Republic cannot give the Empire jurisdiction over violators of Abh law."

The Emperor stroked his chin. "Then we may have a problem. I imagine that even if we only use this measure in the event of an Abh's death, it would make very little difference."

"I imagine so as well, but this is a Constitutional issue. If the matter is ignored here and an incident were to occur it could easily lead to a major diplomatic crisis between our countries. If it is possible for you to remove torture as a measure that can be taken against Xanthalian citizens, the Republic can grant your people custody to fine, jail, kill or enslave criminals as you see fit."

The Emperor leaned back tapping his chin for a moment. He took a quick glance at Lord Rahl who in turn nodded his head slightly. Dusanyu relaxed a bit. "I suppose we can make an exception in this case."

"I am gratified to hear that. If that exception is made, I do not believe that there is any reason for the Xanthalian government to impose restrictions on travel to Abh territory. I should note though that any person violating a Xanthalian law within Xanthalian territory will fall to the Republic's jurisdiction, even if it involves a citizen of the Empire and the law is duplicated by your own codes. If that is the case in a given situation and the accused person is a citizen of your state, after it has been through the Xanthalian legal process it will be returned to your custody to release or prosecute as you desire. If the accused person is Xanthalian, your government can appeal to the Xanthalian High Court for secondary jurisdiction, which if granted will give the Empire rights to prosecute and take action on the person after it has been through the Xanthalian legal process unless the person was found to be innocent or executed through the proper Xanthalian legal procedure."

Eedil takes another drink of water in its peculiar manner after this long monologue. It is very pleased with the proceedings so far. The inevitible conflicts have been resolved quickly and effectively, with virtually no sacrifice on the part of the Republic. It is, by any account from the Xanthalians' side of the table, going extraordinarily well. Still, the Than doesn't let its success go to its head. One thing learned rapidly in the diplomatic profession is to never be confident in the direction of talks at the table and never be confident that, once the negotiations are over, both sides will ratify and adhere to the agreements they reached. The landscape of international relations is constantly evolving, and the skilled negotiator must always be aware of the entire situation.

"I do not believe you will have to worry about any criminal actions within your nation. The shame of disgracing the Empire with such cowardly acts are effective in keeping them in line and we do have fairly harsh punishments for these acts. If a land-dweller is the main merchant, there will be Abh crew members from Star Forces to help with their trading though even the land-dwellers do not often break the laws of the Empire. However, there are exceptions in all cases I'm sure. You can be sure that if a crime does happen and they accused is turned over to the Empire, they will be dealt with efficiently."

Dusanyu reached for his glass and drained it. He picked up the bottle nearby and filled it again. "There is one other matter though when it comes to trade. If you trade down on the planet, things become a little more complicated. The Empire does not get involved on governing the ground worlds so many have their own law systems and police forces. Some are fairly harsh on penalties while others are fairly lenient. I would have to forward a list of all territorial laws along with those that are going through remodeling in the government. When those are put in place, we will forward their laws as well."

"That is probably not a concern of the Republic's, but all relevant information on regional laws should be provided to the Ministry of Information nonetheless. As long as it is clear that primary jurisdiction will fall to the Republic if an incident occurs within Xanthalian territory, there should be no problems. This is based on an assumption of risk policy; that is, by travelling to a territorial jurisdiction with full access to the laws of that territory one agrees to be thereby bound. The Republic is willing to forfeit jurisdiction when crimes are committed in Abh territory for that reason, and it will expect the same forfeiture from the Empire when crimes are committed in the Republic if an agreement is to be reached."

"I am sure that regional governments will have no problem handing over any culprits should a crime arise. If they do not, then it can simply be enforced."

Dusanyu looked to Richard. "Do you know what time it is?"

Richard shook his head. "I'm sorry but I can't tell from inside the building. I can't see the sun shining down directly from the clear ceiling so it musn't be quite noon yet."

The Emperor nodded and then looked back to the Than. "If you would like, we could break for a meal or tour the grounds or we could continue with the talks."

"As you wish Emperor."

The Emperor grinned. That wasn't exactly what Dusanyu was hoping for. He was preferring a more definitive answer. "Well how about we eat first and then tour this site? We have quite a few sites around here that may appear of interest."

Richard called one of the soldiers out and asked that they would go and fetch a servor to bring out a list of the menu of foods that were available today.

Promise bows shallowly in silent approval of this proposition.

A few servants walked in carrying parchment menues for the representatives. The menu was arranged by food categories which ranged from fruits, vegetables, meats, and refreshments in single columns. The food on here resembled much that was found on Earth years ago. The menu looked as followed:

Fruits:
Blood Apples
Blood and White Grapes
Green Pears
Blood Strawberries

Vegetables:
Corn
Peas
Green Beans
Zuchinni
Squash

Meats:
Sliced Ham
Steak
Chicken
Fish-(Fresh sea bass and trout)

Beverages:
Strawberry wine
Grape wine
Strawberry juice
Apple Juice
Black Berry Juice
Water

Eedil inconspicuously runs its datapad over the menu, scanning it into the device which then translates the text. "Does this planet sustain Earth foods or are they imported?" the than inquires, noting the abundance of items native to that planet.

Kahlan smiled. "These foods are native to this planet. Our atmosphere and climats are much the same though a few of these foods are brought in from other regions of this planet obviously. Our climate in D'Hara is a bit too warm for a few things."

Richard looked down at the menu. "I'll have a bowl of Strawberries and some white grapes mixed in. Oh, and just bring me another strawberry juice please."

Kahlan looked up at the man that was waiting on her. "A pear and two blood apples for me."

Rikka dismissed her servor with a grunt and a wave of her hand.

The young brunetter waitress looked down at the Than. "And what may I get for you?"

Eedil picks out something that is, if memory serves it properly, digestible for its species. "Trout, please. And a bowl for my water, if possible."

The waitress nodded and smiled. "Of course, I'll have bowl brought out as soon as possible. How would you like your trout cooked?"

Eedil hesitates, unsure whether to humor that precept or not. It decides that no harm can come from asking. "Uncooked, if that is possible."

The young waitress smiles and gives a curt bow. "It shall be as you wish." The rest of the servers walk off while others bring refills to drinks and such and place utensils for those that ordered food. Basic untensils such as forks and knives were layed out infront of the Than as a mere precaution though they doubted that it would be suited for her.

Richard saw the arrangement. "Excuse me Promise, if you require other utensils then please let me know. I'd like to make your stay at my home as comfortable as possible."

"Unless it is offensive, I prefer to eat without utensils. I will require a cloth to wipe the food off of my face though. I am afraid mine is a race of messy eaters." The Than utters a series of clicks with an undertone of a hiss that her translator does not do anything with; presumably laughter.

"No that's quite alright. The servers should be bringing napkins and such when they bring the food." Richard settled back and took a drink of his juice while the waitress brought Promise her bowl and a cloth napkin.

Eedil pours the water from its glass into the bowl and sets the first container aside. It then lowers its head towards the bowl until its mandibles are submerged and begins a long drink accompanied by a high-pitched clicking sound as its mouth opens and closes rapidly in the quickly-draining bowl.

The waitress brings her another container as the food starts coming in. Bowls of fruit for the Lord Rahl and Kahlan, more wine for the Emperor, and finally Promise's fresh trout not even an hour old.

Kahlan held up one of her apples remembering the red hue and the name given to red apples on the menu and throughout the New World, she placed it back in her bowl and looked to Promise. "You must think the name for some of our fruits are barbaric."

Eedil refills her bowl as she answers. "It is not my place to judge that. A name is only a name; hardly grounds for judgement. Blood is just as often a symbol for life as it is for death. However, I would be interested in the origin of the prefix, as it seems to be quite prevalent." With that said, she begins work on her fish; a process that might be considered barbaric in itself as her mandibles tear through the scaly skin and begin drawing out the meats and organs as her hands hold the animal in place on its platter. It is a messy process, but Promise nonetheless listens carefully as the nomenclature is explained.

If anyone was offended by her eating habits, no one showed it. The Abh were known for their lack of interest in other's cultural habits in the sense they believe that it is none of their affair. The Mord-Sith on the other hand had seen far worse and wasn't phased a bit. Richard just smiled as he looked to his wife.

"Well it's an old story that many no longer know so I would imagine that the name will eventually fade away. In anycase it started years ago when this planet was not united under Richard. The New World was divided into three main regions called the Westland, Midlands, and where we sit today D'Hara. The planet was stricken with war for centuries. D'Hara always seeking to conquer the other countries and always finding new ways to strike at it's enemies. During the first war between D'Hara and the Midlands, a terrible curse was put over the land of all the regions in the Midlands. Unbenounced to everyone, the Lord Rahl at the time poisoned every single piece of red fruit. It must have had something to do with the coloring because they were the only ones effected. Before we knew it, thousands had died and most were only children. We had no counter to it for the longest of time so a band on all red fruits was placed and they were labeled Blood Fruits because it would cost your life to even take one bite."

The Than extracates itself from its meal, already almost half gone, to comment simply "Interesting," before continuing its feast.

Khalan nodded and went back to her apple. The rest went on eating as soft music began to drift into the open chamber. The relaxing qualities of both stringed and wind instuments danced through the air as Richard just sat back with his glass and took it all in.

Dusanyu went about sipping his wine and refilling it every now and then.

Richard looked over and smiled when there was a lull in the music. "It must be nice to be an Abh and never get drunk."

The Emperor grinned and lifted his glass as if in a toast and took another drink.

Eedil finishes its meal quickly and returns to its water, drinking a bit more slowly, waiting patiently for the others to finish eating.

The rest finish shortly after and hand their bowls over to the servants in the room. They had eaten slowly to take a moment to relax and not think about diplomatic matters for the while. Instead they merely just enjoyed the music that had now ceased.

Richard sat his glass back down. "Would you like to tour the grounds or shall we continue with the discussions?"

"I am your guest, Lord. As you wish." Promise uses its napkin to clean its beak, wiping away a few remaining unsightly strings of fish innards.

Richard smiled and shook his head. "Yes you are my guest and as such we shall entertain you. This is your decision."

"It would be outside my given authority to direct any activity outside that called for to complete my assigned duties. If it is my decision, I must call for the completion of talks."

Richard smiled. "Then we shall continue. I believe the rest of the meeting will turn back to the Emperor now."

Dusanyu nodded. "Agreed. Well Ms. Promise. We have worked out trade agreements, for the most part, and got the issue of energy Sord uses across the table. What do you believe should be talked about next?"

"The Republic's first concern is Imperial legal codes and those of its territories, a timetable for conversion of the Empire's sord transit policy, and a final verdict on the International Planespace Tactical Security Agreement. These things coupled with your earlier jurisdictional and remedial concessions will be reviewed by the Alphin and form the basis for Xanthalian border and trade policy regarding the Humankind Empire. Unless you have yet another issue to bring to the table, I do not believe that we will be able to progress further in this conference."

"I agree that these diplomatic relations are still in their infancy. I would like to bring other matters to the table that may help bring out two nations closer together. We have several programs currently going on in the government. One of our most promising is student exchange. We have students from SeaQuest and New Dornalia in our Empire and students here going there. Would any of this interest you?"

Dusanyu sighed. "It is my hope that my last diplomatic session will bring us closer together. If not then I will have to leave it to my successor."

This question gives the diplomat pause. It considers the proposal for a moment, then nods. "Such an exchange is contingent upon the consent of the Ministry of Education and the willingness of an eligible group of students, but provided that the proper diplomatic channels are observed I believe that a student exchange would be acceptable. This could only take place, of course, after the aforementioned data is made available to the Alphin and has been properly analyzed and approved."

The Emperor nodded. "As I said, I shall send the information to your nation as soon as it is all prepared. Might I ask what age limit you would prefer the students to be?"

"Xanthalian public education carries no age limits. Further information regarding your proposal will be communicated by the Ministry of Education after diplomatic relations are fully established."

"I was only wondering what age your nation would prefer to entertain."

"As I said, I cannot answer that question personally; but I do not believe that such a preference exists."

"Then I will be in contact with your government to discuss this matter further."

The Emperor waved a servant over and whispered into his ear. With a bow, the man was gone only briefly then returning with something wrapped in a cloth.

Dusanyu stood and took the item into both hands. He walked over to the Than and presented it out in both hands to her. "We Abh have a custom in our nation. We give a gift to those we start to become allies with as a physical reminder. If it is alright with you, I would like you to present this to your government on my behalf."

He opened the folds of the cloth and there rested a gilded compass. "I had the finest gilder in D'Hara work on it." The four longest points struck out to the four main directions with lesser spikes pointing out to the medians. It was encompassed in a golden cirlce.

http://gallery.hd.org/_exhibits/maths/compass-rose-in-copper-over-green-water-created-with-POVray-by-BG.jpg

Promise rises in turn, accepting the gift with a deep bow and folding the sheet back over the compass face as delicately as its chiseled hands allow. "You have the appreciation of Xanthal for this token, and for the considerations you have made today. I hope that this meeting will provide a framework in which our countries and peoples can interact."

Dusanyu bowed in return. "That is my hope. Now that a dialogue has been opened between our nations, there is only one thing left for me to do as Emperor but that is still a bit off."

Eedil straightens and nods twice, first to Dusanyu, then to Richard. "My personal thanks for your cooperation and hospitality. Unless there is something else to do here, I request escort back to the ship on which I arrived."

Richard nodded and waved over a few troops as escorts. "Please follow us and we shall escort you and the Emperor out to the shuttles."

About ten D'Haran soldiers filed into the room and took up positions around the delegates while Rikka walked over to stand on Richard's left while his wife stood at his right. Kahlan bowed to the Than. "Thank you for visiting us."

Richard gestured for Promise to follow.

Eedil returns the bow and follows its escorts.

Richard lead the procession out of the palace along the same cooridor as they past the same tapestries and sculptures. It was getting later in the day where most of the commerce and Lord Rahl's business would have to be dealt with but the entire way had been made clear for them.

They made it out through the court yard and back out to the main grounds of where Promise had entered. There lining the streets was an entire procession of D'Haran soldiers with swords drawn and brought up to their right shoulders. Their green capes flapped in the breeze as the sun continued to climb into the sky giving way to clear blue skies. Each soldier brought their sword down until they past back outside the main gate.

There Keirn've was on the ground waiting for the Emperor. Dusanyu turned to Promise one last time. "Give my regards to your government and it was honor to meet you Promise."

"I appreciate that. May your people prosper and may you always be happy, Emperor." Eedil concludes the conversation with a final bow and walks measuredly back to the waiting calicke. It activates the door and the built-in ramp, standing aside as it extends outward and lowers to the ground, providing a steep but managable thirty-degree angle up which to walk to the deck. After boarding, closing the door and retracting the ramp, Eedil walks forward to the shuttle's cockpit, knocking twice then opening the sturdy metal door.

"Til oostep. Istai thio eliv?" Zoe inquires.

"Mikyil," the Than confirms with a slight nod. "Kufahz telal ortu. Bilekai colsak to kas." It steps back and closes the door, choosing a table seat in the pleasantly-furnished shuttle. As the engines roar back to life, the loud hum inside the ship doesn't stop Promise from relaxing, nor do the inertial jolts of liftoff and atmospheric travel deter it from drifting off into a nap as the small shuttle returns to space, mission accomplished.

The company watches as the calicke leave then Dusanyu turns to Richard and gives a warm handshake. He moves on to Kahlan and gives a quick hug and a nod to Rikka. "Take care my friend and take a much needed vacation. You have done well for the Empire and if anyone deserves a rest, it is you."

Richard nodded and smiled. "Thank you Dusanyu."

The Emperor then turned to Kahlan. "You take it easy as well and listen to your husband and the Mord-Sith. There will be a celebration in your honor when it is born. If it is anything like its parents then it will be a great child indeed."

"Thank you your Highness."

With one more farewell, the Emperor boarded the communication ship and Keirn've had the ship dusting off and headed back to the Emperor's ship. Time to head home.

OOC: Well that's another RP knocked out of the way for us. It wasn't as long as the last but still good enough.