NationStates Jolt Archive

The Duchy was in a panic.

Word had been sent from the Emperor that Castle Valtane was going to be the site of the Comatican and Tocrowkian Peace Conference. Eric Valtane's descendant, Alejandro, had ordered several corps of engineers into the Duchy to spruce it up. After all, it had been empty for over 75 years.

The Duchy of Valtane was an island, roughly 93 miles square, in a chain of islands that connected the two main land masses of the Mercenary Lands, wherein lie the bulk of the Empire of Xeraph. The island had been awarded to Eric Valtane for his nation's help in the Xeraphian/Kothite War of 269 years ago.

Now, it was going to be used for peace. Alejandro himself would be there to greet the guests, as would Prince Vlad of the Xeraphian Empire. It was not known if the Emperor would be able to come due to the Essenian Rebellion.

In fact, with the Rebellion in mind, Alaric had ordered the tightest security in the history of the Empire. The waters surrounding the island would be patrolled by two CBGs and numerous FABs. A half-dozen subs would be prowling the seas as well. Air patrols would be constantly monitoring the skies within 100 miles of the Duchy. And for the first time in Imperial history, the Brujah would be out in force.

But for now, the servants and workers were working hard to get the place in top condition for the meeting just a few days from now.

King Ricala of Auralinia was chosen to be the 'go-between' if the parties involved in the talks became a bit testy. This was a meeting for peace....Ricala meant to keep it on that track.

The attendees were expected to arrive anywhere from 6 to 24 hours ahead of the first round of talks. As a result, the kitchens were busier than a one-armed paper hanger.

Ricala looked out over the rolling green hills of the Duchy....and had a warm feeling in his heart that everything would work out alright.

The cloudless sky soared past Titus's window, revealing the blue stretch of ocean. His jet was escorted by 2 Z281's, each a respectable distance from the flanks of his plane. He was to arrive in 9 hours, having traveled for 3 already. He was prepared for anything; he didn't care much for Tocrowkia, but he know he musn't dare display his contempt for them. He was determined to get to like them, but he found it harder and harder as the days of fighting wore on. Well, he would find it easier now.

OOC: Whoop, forgot to alert Velkya and NSAA.

To: Prince Vlad of Xeraph
From: Duchess d'Avignon-Elyrie


Hello again, Prince Vlad. It has been a long time since I have had any communication with the Empire of Xeraph, but I have become aware of a peace meeting to be held in Castle Valtane, in the Duchy of Valtane.

As you undoubtedly know, Eric Valtane was my grandfather, and he and your Emperor were great friends. Many of us still have fond memories of Grandfather.

I was wondering if I and a few of my people would be allowed to attend the opening ceremonies, if there are any. It would be so nice to be back in the Duchy, and to meet Alejandro, the ruler of Mandalore Prime, my grandfather's direct ruling descendant.

yours,

Duchess Priscilla d'Avignon-Elyrie.

To: Prince Vlad of Xeraph
From: Duchess d'Avignon-Elyrie


Hello again, Prince Vlad. It has been a long time since I have had any communication with the Empire of Xeraph, but I have become aware of a peace meeting to be held in Castle Valtane, in the Duchy of Valtane.

As you undoubtedly know, Eric Valtane was my grandfather, and he and your Emperor were great friends. Many of us still have fond memories of Grandfather.

I was wondering if I and a few of my people would be allowed to attend the opening ceremonies, if there are any. It would be so nice to be back in the Duchy, and to meet Alejandro, the ruler of Mandalore Prime, my grandfather's direct ruling descendant.

yours,

Duchess Priscilla d'Avignon-Elyrie.


Duchess,

Yes it is good to hear from you after such a long absence. I do not see any problem in your attending the initial festivities of the conference. I'm sure Caesar Alejandro would like very much to meet you, as you are distantly related.

regards,

Prince Vlad

Isabella had a stern look about her as she sat, a hard cover folder in her lap. It was the armistice she was prepared to offer Comatica, one, which she had spent a few sleepless nights drawing up. She was flying in a sleek, black private jet, which was being escorted by nearly five squadrons of Raven fighters, so she felt reasonably secure.

She was also bringing a security detail of ten highly trained SS and Assairs Guard officers armed with M9's, along with, of course, her minister of defense and minister for foreign relations.

She sighed once more, and decided to take a final look at her peace proposal, to see if needed any last minute revisions.

[tag].

bump

Only a few hundred miles away, a diplomat from the State Department also travelled to the conference. Brightly labeled "Allied Union of Velkya with the characteristic dark blue streaks and eagle on the nose. Tailing it's wings were two ISF-12 Sturmfalke air superiority fighters, the newest additions from the State Aerospace Corporation drawing boards. The diplomat, Ambassador Ryan Berkely, the Velkyan ambassador to Comatica, travelled inside, accompanied by several Halo force operatives and aides.

They were there, obviously, to ensure that the Reich payed for it's imperialism.

As Priscilla looked out the window of her private jet, she felt a bit uneasy. She didn't know why. There really wasn't any reason for her to feel this way. Below her, she could see the rolling hills of Duchy Valtane through breaks in the clouds. Perhaps she was just a little tired from all the preparation necessary for this trip.

She was excited about meeting Alejandro Valtane, current owner of Castle Valtane, and a distant cousin of hers. Alejandro, who seemed to revel in his title of Caesar, was about 20 years younger than she was. He seemed rather young to be heading up a nation with the pedigree of old Eric Valtane, her grandfather. 'Ah, youth', she thought. ' Too bad it's wasted on the young.'

As her BlueStar Challenger 604 circled in to land at Lufftewaffe Airport, she spoke to her security team. " Now, gentlemen, we are attending a peace conference. No shenanigans. Don't have your usual supercilious attitude towards the non-Valtane attendees. Elyria-Lorain has much to be thankful for from a number of the national reps who may be attending, if only in an observer capacity. Comprendez vous?"

Capitan LeClerque inclined his head. "Oui, Madame. Je comprende."

As he hurried to the transporter room, Ricala once again sarcastically mumbled under his breath his thanks to Alaric for naming him the 'referee' for this peace conference. As if he didn't have enough to do. While Alaric was off in Jarridia discussing space exploration and planet-side manufacturing with President Barker of the Westwood Alliance, he was left to not only deal with a preliminary blueprint of how all that would work, but he had to monitor this situation as well. Not to mention the constant state of readiness in the Black Katanas if...when...Ghengiz should attack.

When he got to the transporter room, he saw that there were four Auralinian Rangers waiting for him. " OK, guys, lets get moving. We've got a lot to do."

He and the Rangers situated themselves on the platform and he gave the ensign the signal to proceed.

A fiery blue oval encircled them, and in a few seconds they were stepping out of the oval in the Great Room of Castle Valtane. He habitually looked up as if to see the Ka'leta Class Attack Cruiser he had just left, but of course he couldn't. It was about 350 miles straight up.

Several jets were landing...he had to get busy.

The plane landed as the two fighter circling in a banking fashion overhead, watching the diplomatic aircraft come to a stop before landing themselves.

The private jet touched down delicately, then slowed it's velocity. It taxied for several minutes, then Titus stood and stretched, International Relations Minister Cornelius Durantum doing the same. The plane holding his protective soldiers had already landed and were dressed in ceremonial attire.

"Well, Cornele', be ready for anything. Lady Isabella is a proud woman...don't do anything to make her dislike you moreso than she may already."

Cornelius merely shook is head. "I hardly think that I, a minister that represents an entire nation on the international stage on a daily basis, needs schooling on how to act in the presence of foriegn dignitaries."

"You wouldn't think so, would you?" Asked Titus, smiling brightly. "You are often prone to angry outbursts, even if you don't realize it. Hell, Sometimes I get pissed off, but I at least don't start throwing chairs around and shatter a glass conference table."

Cornelius slapped his forehead with his palm, his ears flooded with a shade of crimson. "Looks like I'll never live that down."

The 24 VQD special operations soldiers, in ceremonial attire, stood rigid in two rows, creating an aisle of men from the stairway at the door of the jet to a limosine that would take Titus to the castle.

Defense Minister Tiro Santaelium stepped out first. The soldiers saluted him in unison as he strode to the limo. Then came Cornelius, followed by several aides and secretaries.

The soldier's squad leader yelled, "Emperor Titus Celmaetus, his majesty! On your right knee!"

The soldiers methodically shouldered their ceremonial cavalry swords, and knelt down on their right knee, staring directly in forward. Titus meandered down the aisle, inspecting the men brightly. He entered the limosine, and after the soldiers had regrouped in several humvees, the motorcade set off to the castle.

The Tocrowkian jet touched down a few minutes after it's Comatican counter-part. After its velocity had slowed, the Ravens demonstrated their STOVL ability, and landed close to the sleek black jet. The S.S. and Assairs Guard made one last check of their weapons, and stood up. Isabella slammed the folder shut, and stood up to join them. Together with her minister of foreign relations, her defense minister and her translator, she proceeded out of the jet, still wearing her same stern look.

After they had landed, Ryan and his entourage disembarked the aircraft and boarded a secured Cyclone SUV from the Velkyan embassy, which proceeded to drive them to the conference sight. As they drove off, the two pilots from the ISF-12s leaned against one of fighters, talking.

"Hey, check those Reich fighters over there, Jack."

The glanced at the numerous Tocrowkian fighters that had landed on the tarmac. The two pilots had fought against these aircraft as ISF-4 pilots in the war in Comatica, and known their flaws.

"Some sort of show of strength, I'd imagine. You know, don't fuck with us kind of mentality."

The second one, nodding his head against the nosecone, laughed a bit. "You know, they have to dodge cruise missiles as their final test." His companion chuckled. "Cruise missiles?! Jesus, even a drunk Hatarian could dodge a cruise missile."

They enjoyed the joke for a moment before signalling the ground crew to refuel the three Velkyan aircraft.

The Tocrowkian jet touched down a few minutes after it's Comatican counter-part. After its velocity had slowed, the Ravens demonstrated their STOVL ability, and landed close to the sleek black jet. The S.S. and Assairs Guard made one last check of their weapons, and stood up. Isabella slammed the folder shut, and stood up to join them. Together with her minister of foreign relations, her defense minister and her translator, she proceeded out of the jet, still wearing her same stern look.


As Isabella and her ministers stood waiting for the limo to take them to the conference center, she felt a light tap on her shoulder.

" Greetings, m'lady," said Lord Sethanis, " So good to see you again. Would you and you ministers care to join me? We are on our way to the conference, and have more than enough room in the HumVee."

The HumVee had been stretched about twelve feet, being now able to carry 8-10 people. On either side were standard Hummers, each carrying four of Sethanis' Shadow Guards.

" I noticed, ma'am, that you brought no guards with you. Although you are undoubtedly safe here in the Duchy, I personally would feel better if you had some sort of security around you. Those Velkyans looked none too happy when you arrived. And please.....smile! You'll not only feel better, but you'll look better as well....."

bump

"Hello again, Sethanis."

She replied, perking up a bit.

"Ah, and I did bring some security. There they are right now."

She said, motioning to the plane, and the guards filing out of it.

"Are you quite sure the limo can fit you, me, and my security detail?"

"Hello again, Sethanis."

She replied, perking up a bit.

"Ah, and I did bring some security. There they are right now."

She said, motioning to the plane, and the guards filing out of it.

"Are you quite sure the limo can fit you, me, and my security detail?"


" Hmmm...that would be a bit of a tight squeeze. Would it be alright if your guards rode with mine in our Hummers? More than enough room for them there."

Titus cruised through his Mail application on his MacBook, hoping for nothing about the Essenian Dynasty situation. Despite his high hopes, there were about a dozen of them, from various persons back in Aredeth. One caught his eye, in particular. It was in semi-encyrption.

His outfitted laptop had a special, rare application, hidden in his hard drive, called X06F. He gave it no recognizable name, lest any hackers find it and upload it. It encrypted and decrypted any text he wanted, and made it so any file was unbreachable by interceptors.

He decrypted the email after entering several passwords, and read the long message.


Sir,
One of the Dynasty's new allies, aquired through their program, answered their call for aid in their continuing threats. Leocardia mobilized some 150 navy vessels to help them, but thats about it. Not much air support, nor many ground forces to speak of.

It's still a very dire situation, and Mr. Veldaem encourages you to take furthur military action. He wishes to know what you think. I have included a list of the forces Leocardia has provided, as well as about a dozen satellite images.

"Well that's just freakin' perfect," spat Titus. He glanced around the cab of the limo. Tiro and Cornelius had received similar emails, and were cursing as well.

"What should we do?" asked Cornelius.

Scrutinizing the list of Leocardian forces, Titus thought for a moment. "We'll need a great deal more naval support in the Barrow Sea region, as well as around the entire continent. Add higher concentrations of military forces in all Imperial provinces all over the world. Also, a few more aircraft carriers and subs in the waters near The Dynasty, Baael and GothReich, and maybe Leocardia. Not too close, and not too many ships. I don't want this seen as an act of war. That reminds me, too. Any military advancement toward the Barrow Sea Union region is to be seen as an act of war, got it? ANY. I'll leave the specifics up to you, Tiro."

Titus turned away, and continued to scan his emails.. Damn it, he thought. We may be ending one war this weekend, but another may start.

" Hmmm...that would be a bit of a tight squeeze. Would it be alright if your guards rode with mine in our Hummers? More than enough room for them there."

"Yes, I suppose that would work."

She replied.

"Yes, I suppose that would work."

She replied.

" Excellent", Sethanis exclaimed. Turning to the ShadowGuard Commander, he said, " Major, the Tocrowkian security detail are going to ride with you. I'll have Lady Isabella and her ministers ride in the limo with me."

As soon as the Tocrowkians entered the stretch Hummer and got comfortable, Sethanis signalled to the two security vehicles and got in himself.

" So, m'lady, how have you been these past weeks? Your'e looking well, and.....what is that perfume your'e wearing? Very nice, if you don't mind my saying so."

He reached over to the mini-bar and asked. " Would you and your ministers join me in a glass of wine?"

ooc: okay, ladies and gentlemen, how's about we get this show on the road? Everybody but NSAA is here. we can start w/o him. the next posts should be with everyone in the Grand Ballroom. this will be the opening night's festivities. next day will be the sit-down talks.

ooc: okay, ladies and gentlemen, how's about we get this show on the road? Everybody but NSAA is here. we can start w/o him. the next posts should be with everyone in the Grand Ballroom. this will be the opening night's festivities. next day will be the sit-down talks.

OOC: Alright.

IC: Briefcase in hand, Titus strode briskly into the ballroom, admiring the splendor of the decor and atmosphere. Tiro and Cornelius, and two aides were immediately behind him.

OOC: Uhh...NSAA was just deleted for inactivity.

Ryan also walked in, flanked by the Halo Force guards and several aides, who proceeded to seat themselves at the door. He strolled over to Titus, extending his hand. A warscar running the length of his hand and forearm was visible, a wound from the

"Hello, I'm Ambassador Ryan Berkely, Allied Union of Velkya."

All eyes in the ballroom turned to the doorway as the Tocrowkian delegation, accompanied by Sethanis of Black Shadows, entered the room. Sethanis gave Isabella a slight bow, spoke a soft word or two, and headed back outside with his ShadowGuard. Isabella and her ministers were on their own.

Ryan also walked in, flanked by the Halo Force guards and several aides, who proceeded to seat themselves at the door. He strolled over to Titus, extending his hand. A warscar running the length of his hand and forearm was visible, a wound from the

"Hello, I'm Ambassador Ryan Berkely, Allied Union of Velkya."

Titus smiled, and warmly shook his hand. He scanned the Halo Force soldiers, then halted his eyes on a scar on Mr. Berkely's forearm.

"Ambassador Berkely, forgive me for asking, but did where did you receive that scar? It wasn't combat, was it?"

As Titus and Mr. Berkely conversed, Cornelius's eyes wandered over to Isabella, whose grand entrance into the ballroom had made many heads turn.

Holy crap, he said in awe to himself. This is who we've been fighting all along? Such a beautiful woman? I never would have guessed that a strong woman like herself could look that grand.

Almost reading his thoughts, Tiro leaned in and said passively in his ear, "How old is she? 25? She's so young...and..."

"Hot?" finished Cornelius sheepishly.

Tiro checked around to see if anyone was listening. "That might not be the word of choice, but...yeah...."

"It's from shrapnel entering my tank in the Velkyan invasion of Tigerlan twenty years ago. My M-1A2 took a rather nasty hit from a T-80."

Ryan turned his head as well.

"Quite a looker, huh?" Suprisingly, one of the Halo force soldiers looked as well, speaking in a thick Selken (russian) accent. "Beauty is only skin-deep, comrade Berkely."

Sitting at his Ornate Desk…Another hand me down from his father…Alejandro ran his hands along the edge…Reviling in the memories that were undoubtedly engrained into the articulate woodwork….Shaking off the Nostalgia…

Alejandro went back to Finalizing the necessary arrangements for the Peace Conference…As Extensive lists swarmed over his screens…Everything from Room Assignments to laundry details…Alejandro worked entering information as needed…Though he had numerous staff also doing the same…He always like to micromanage things…

Turning his head, he saw the Security situated around the Castle…Numerous shots of the dignitaries popped up all with relevant data to each…
His Intelligence Secretariat must have worked wonders compiling all this data…Tweaking a knob…Alejandro punched up a Video shot of Duchess Priscilla d'Avignon-Elyrie. Staring intently…
He began to notice the minuet details, which showed her Valtane Heritage… Smiling...Been a long time since I have chatted w/ Actual Family…
Let us hope her temperament did not match that of Father…If it did…Then this little shindig…Would definitely be interesting
Quickly he scanned several more monitors…
Each showing a different angle of the Conference room…

One had the Comatican Emperor chatting amicably with his subordinates…
Another showed King Ricala Appearing on the Transport Pads with his Security detail…
One of the numerous exterior feeds…Tracked Ryan Berkley & his Velkyan entourage…
Finally, the last feed was of the Tocrowkian Delegation…
Alejandro stared transfixed…It was clear the she was a person of extreme political power…She had no fear of using her guiles to accomplish any task…

Standing up…He deftly dusted off his suit…and went out into the main hall to “mingle”

(OOC: Xeraph, Technically If she is the Granddaughter of Eric & I am his Illegitimate Son…Then I am her Half Uncle)

"It's from shrapnel entering my tank in the Velkyan invasion of Tigerlan twenty years ago. My M-1A2 took a rather nasty hit from a T-80."

Ryan turned his head as well.

"Quite a looker, huh?" Suprisingly, one of the Halo force soldiers looked as well, speaking in a thick Selken (russian) accent. "Beauty is only skin-deep, comrade Berkely."

"Ah, yes. Well, you must excuse me, Mr. Berkely. The opening ceremonies are going to begin, soon."

Titus gestured to his guards, now dressed in on-duty regailia, and made his way to the hall in which the conference was to be held. His ministers, still shooting glances at Isabella, followed.

"Right. Let's roll, guys."

He walked with Titus, followed by the two Halo force guards, each brandishing their LAR-12s nonchatanly.

Isabella had no intention to "mingle" with the others. Right this second, the young men and women of her nation were dying in battles against Comatica. No, she wasn't here to party. She was here to put an end to the suffering. She, her ministers, and guards walked off in an attempt to confront Titus directly.

Immediately after Titus had stepped into the main hall, Lady Isabella, flanked by her multitudes of guards, confronted the Emperor, with his two ministers by his sides and his soldiers behind him. For the first time, Titus and Isabella made eye contact. His resolve darkened, and he hardened his facial expression. He pulled up his posture to his full height, and slightly smirked. "Lady Isabella...as we meet."

The soldiers behind Titus stirred. Several of them had fought in combat with Tocrowkia, and they were in no mood to stare, completely still, in the midst of Reich soldiers. Still, they made no sound in offense to the Tocrowkians.

Stepping Out from a Hidden Door…Alejandro saw the potential conflagration brewing…Acting quickly he Inserted himself in between the two Delegates….

**Now…Now…This little get together was arranged to bring about a peaceful end toward your Concerns…
Your moods suggest otherwise….Please…If everyone will return to the main hall…We will begin the Conference immediately after Dinner…
If you have any pertinent information…Please forward to the purser…He’ll make sure everyone has copies…So that all the parties involved will be enlightened

With that he bowed to both Leaders…And held out his arm…

**Mi’ Lady…If I may have the pleasure of your company…
I believe Dinner is to be served momentarily

Isabella sighed and shook her head at Alejandro. She spoke in English.

"I'm sorry to be rude, but I will have to decline for the moment. Dinner is not what I came here for. I came here to end a war. Every second that passes, another Tocrowkian dies."

She turned back to Titus.

"Emperor Titus, this is my defense minister, Jennel Arabelle."

She said, nodding to a woman who appeared to be in her early 30's. She was hardened and gaunt looking, but a remnant of good looks remained. How ever, it was apparent it had faded quickly over the years, the mark of someone who had seen enough combat to last many life times. Her dirty blond hair was tied up in a bun.

"And my foreign minister, Lucius Hackett."

She nodded toward the thin, wiry man to her left. He had greasy black hair and a rather uneasy gaze. His entire appearance was one of a plant that did not see enough sun, as his skin was as white as paper.

"And this, is our peace proposal."

He handed Titus the folder, which had been opened to the English transcript of the armistice:

~Armistice Draft 1, proposal to end the war in the Barrow Sea~


The Tocrowkian Reich will withdraw all Military Assets from the barrow sea, and pull back all assets from within 1,000 kilometers of the Barrow Sea
The Reich's OWPs(Orbital Weapon Platforms) will also withdraw from their positions over Comatican possessions
The Reich will pay up to 16 Trillion Dollars in civilian restorations. We also request access to Comatican finical archives; to make sure the money is being spent on civilian projects only
The Reich will return all Comatican POWs. We expect the United Empire to do the same in turn with any and all Tocrowkian POWs

Isabella sighed and shook her head at Alejandro. She spoke in English.

"I'm sorry to be rude, but I will have to decline for the moment. Dinner is not what I came here for. I came here to end a war. Every second that passes, another Tocrowkian dies."

She turned back to Titus.

"Emperor Titus, this is my defense minister, Jennel Arabelle."

She said, nodding to a woman who appeared to be in her early 30's. She was hardened and gaunt looking, but a remnant of good looks remained. How ever, it was apparent it had faded quickly over the years, the mark of someone who had seen enough combat to last many life times. Her dirty blond hair was tied up in a bun.

"And my foreign minister, Lucius Hackett."

She nodded toward the thin, wiry man to her left. He had greasy black hair and a rather uneasy gaze. His entire appearance was one of a plant that did not see enough sun, as his skin was as white as paper.

"And this, is our peace proposal."

He handed Titus the folder, which had been opened to the English transcript of the armistice:

~Armistice Draft 1, proposal to end the war in the Barrow Sea~


The Tocrowkian Reich will withdraw all Military Assets from the barrow sea, and pull back all assets from within 1,000 kilometers of the Barrow Sea
The Reich's OWPs(Orbital Weapon Platforms) will also withdraw from their positions over Comatican possessions
The Reich will pay up to 16 Trillion Dollars in civilian restorations. We also request access to Comatican finical archives; to make sure the money is being spent on civilian projects only
The Reich will return all Comatican POWs. We expect the United Empire to do the same in turn with any and all Tocrowkian POWs




The tension was thick enough to cut with a knife. The Tocrowkians and the Comaticans clearly didn't like each other, but perhaps that was understandable. As Ricala listened to the terms offered by Isabella, he thought them cautiously generous, as if she expected some kind of counter-offer. The offer to withdraw all hostile forces was standard. The Tocrowkian military had to leave all contested areas.

Ricala spoke up. " M'lady, your Majesty, I can do two things here. As director of the Xeraphian Space League, I can grant assurance to Comatica that the OWPs will be relegated to orbit above Tocrowkia. And I can assure that all Tocrowkian forces with be redeployed to non-Comatican areas.

There is one thing I would like to remind Emperor Titus of......a good deal of the damage done in Comatica was by the hand of the Black and Grey Imperium who gave little or no care as to who they were bombing. They destroyed the military units of both Comatica AND Tocrowkia. To place the entire responsibility on Tocrowkia for the destruction of Comatican and Velkyan property is unfair. All three nations suffered at the hands of the Imperium.

Emperor Alaric anticipated this dilemna. He has an offer for all of you, as follows.

Seeing as the bulk of the nations who attacked Comatican and Velkyan forces were former nations of the Xeraphian Empire, he is willing to pay reparations to the tune of 12 Trillion USD to each of these nations for the damage and life lost during the war. While he realizes that the Tocrowkian/Velkyan/Comatican conflict happened before the Imperium hostilities, he feels that a good deal of the responsibility for the Imperium war rests upon his shoulders.

In addition, the Empire offers to pay the 16 trillion offered by Tocrowkia as he feels that the potential alliance of the three nations in the alliance known as GAPTS will create goodwill between the former enemies, which will strengthen the alliance. Also, any aid that any of the three nations require will be handled by the Empire.

Much harm was done by the Imperium. Each affected nation is in the process of rebuilding their war-torn nations. The Xeraphian Empire wishes to bring all nations concerned under the banner of Peace."

Ricala layed down the paper from which he had been reading. " Ladies and gentlemen, please find it in your hearts to accept these terms. There has been enough of war and ill will in this part of the world. We must all unite for the sake of peace."

'As well as for the potential attacks that may be promulgated by Ghengiz and his new friends', he thought.

Titus carefully considered the two proposals. He turned to Tiro. "How does the monetary offer sound to you?"

He thought for a moment. "I hardly think that we need 16 trillion. I would err on the side of 11 trillion. We don't want our new potential ally to be paying an extra 5 trillion for nothing."

"Very well," said Titus, turning of the delegation. "We do not need as much as 16 trillion in damages caused by Tocrowkian forces. More like a fair offer would be 11 trillion. All other Tocrowkian terms, however, we find favorable. I also have considered His Majesty Alaric's proposal, and I deem it, with no offense meant, unnecessary. Even if the nations who attacked Comatic forces were former Xeraphian nations, he had no control over their actions. I don't know how Velkya may feel about this.

"If Emperor Alaric insists on a monetary compensation, however, Comatica would only require 5 trillion. Though, as I said earlier, I find it a moot point."

"All Velkya desires is an end to the imperialistic tendencies of Tocrowgia which started this bloody war. We wish not to see young men and woman die needlessly on the field of battle, as I have seen so much in my lifetime. As of right now, however, I recommend a temporary cease-fire from all sides in the conflict to prevent further loss of life until a more permenant solution can be instituted."

OOC: I asked PDC for permission, and so I'm here.

A day before.....

A tall, thin Eurasian had stepped out of the Gulfstream 550 (http://www.netjets.com/Fleet/Gulfstream_V-SP_(G550).asp) that had come to a standstill on the Auralianian soil. He would come flanked by only two bodyguards on his right and left side, one each. They were dressed in the stereotypical Kennedy-era Secret Service suit-uniforms, only difference seperating the uniforms from that era was color - a navy blue color had replaced the black. The pair - both of the same ethnicity, Indonesian - of course, had concealed firearms. The tall and thin Eurasian man was the Southeast Asian ambassador to the United Empire of Comatica - Professor Pascal Bi'nh Pho'.

One could tell just by looking at him, that the two ethnicities' bloods he was mixed with was a cross between Vietnamese and French. Light brown skin, dark brown hair, chocolate eyes, a nose that reflected both Western and Eastern background - not too big nor small, but prominent, typical Eurasian noses, he gave the sort of friendly appearance. He wore rather casual clothing - baggy hat and a simple, white-colored silk overcoat, leather shoes and dark trousers.

A limousine transport had been arranged by the host nation's native rental automobile firm (OOC: Auralinia, you mind that?), and the limo sped toward a hotel arranged for the ambassador by the government of Southeast Asia. Another Mandarin Oriental, this one based in Auralinia.

They would have a few hours to rest before the meetings tommorow....

The conference....

The Professor was a bit late. Like yesterday, flanked by the navy-blue suited firearms, the Professor quickly introduced himself and apologized, then proceeded to taking a seat.

Stepping Out from a Hidden Door…Alejandro saw the potential conflagration brewing…Acting quickly he Inserted himself in between the two Delegates….

**Now…Now…This little get together was arranged to bring about a peaceful end toward your Concerns…
Your moods suggest otherwise….Please…If everyone will return to the main hall…We will begin the Conference immediately after Dinner…
If you have any pertinent information…Please forward to the purser…He’ll make sure everyone has copies…So that all the parties involved will be enlightened

With that he bowed to both Leaders…And held out his arm…

**Mi’ Lady…If I may have the pleasure of your company…
I believe Dinner is to be served momentarily



Priscilla eyed the goings-on with a great deal of skepticism. All were here ostensibly to end a war, but she couldn't get rid of the nagging feeling that there was something amiss. She couldn't quite put a finger on it....an undertone of danger perhaps. It was obvious that the opposing sides were a bit testy with each other. That was understandable. No, it was something else.

Nonetheless, she was delighted that she was to meet her cousin, Alejandro. Another direct descendant of her grandfather Eric. There weren't many of them left.

She saw him talking to that Isabella woman, the leader of Tocrowkia. Good-looking....if you liked that type. It was apparent that most of the men in the room thought that she was their type. Hmmph.....men. A little paint and padding and they reverted to cavemen.

Priscilla caught Alejandro's eye, and she waved.......

Titus carefully considered the two proposals. He turned to Tiro. "How does the monetary offer sound to you?"

He thought for a moment. "I hardly think that we need 16 trillion. I would err on the side of 11 trillion. We don't want our new potential ally to be paying an extra 5 trillion for nothing."

"Very well," said Titus, turning of the delegation. "We do not need as much as 16 trillion in damages caused by Tocrowkian forces. More like a fair offer would be 11 trillion. All other Tocrowkian terms, however, we find favorable. I also have considered His Majesty Alaric's proposal, and I deem it, with no offense meant, unnecessary. Even if the nations who attacked Comatic forces were former Xeraphian nations, he had no control over their actions. I don't know how Velkya may feel about this.

"If Emperor Alaric insists on a monetary compensation, however, Comatica would only require 5 trillion. Though, as I said earlier, I find it a moot point."

"Excellent"

Isabella replied. It felt as if an enormous burden had been lifted from her shoulders that instant.

"If you could just sign at the bottom, we can make it official."

Isabella sighed and shook her head at Alejandro. She spoke in English.

"I'm sorry to be rude, but I will have to decline for the moment. Dinner is not what I came here for. I came here to end a war. Every second that passes, another Tocrowkian dies."

She turned back to Titus.

"Emperor Titus, this is my defense minister, Jennel Arabelle."

She said, nodding to a woman who appeared to be in her early 30's. She was hardened and gaunt looking, but a remnant of good looks remained. How ever, it was apparent it had faded quickly over the years, the mark of someone who had seen enough combat to last many life times. Her dirty blond hair was tied up in a bun.

"And my foreign minister, Lucius Hackett."

She nodded toward the thin, wiry man to her left. He had greasy black hair and a rather uneasy gaze. His entire appearance was one of a plant that did not see enough sun, as his skin was as white as paper.

"And this, is our peace proposal."

He handed Titus the folder

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As you wish Ma'dam...I only sought to alleviate any tension

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Ricala spoke up. " M'lady, your Majesty, I can do two things here. As director of the Xeraphian Space League, I can grant assurance to Comatica that the OWPs will be relegated to orbit above Tocrowkia. And I can assure that all Tocrowkian forces with be redeployed to non-Comatican areas.

There is one thing I would like to remind Emperor Titus of......a good deal of the damage done in Comatica was by the hand of the Black and Grey Imperium who gave little or no care as to who they were bombing. They destroyed the military units of both Comatica AND Tocrowkia. To place the entire responsibility on Tocrowkia for the destruction of Comatican and Velkyan property is unfair. All three nations suffered at the hands of the Imperium.

Emperor Alaric anticipated this dilemna. He has an offer for all of you, as follows.

Seeing as the bulk of the nations who attacked Comatican and Velkyan forces were former nations of the Xeraphian Empire, he is willing to pay reparations to the tune of 12 Trillion USD to each of these nations for the damage and life lost during the war. While he realizes that the Tocrowkian/Velkyan/Comatican conflict happened before the Imperium hostilities, he feels that a good deal of the responsibility for the Imperium war rests upon his shoulders.

In addition, the Empire offers to pay the 16 trillion offered by Tocrowkia as he feels that the potential alliance of the three nations in the alliance known as GAPTS will create goodwill between the former enemies, which will strengthen the alliance. Also, any aid that any of the three nations require will be handled by the Empire.

Much harm was done by the Imperium. Each affected nation is in the process of rebuilding their war-torn nations. The Xeraphian Empire wishes to bring all nations concerned under the banner of Peace."

" Ladies and gentlemen, please find it in your hearts to accept these terms. There has been enough of war and ill will in this part of the world. We must all unite for the sake of peace."

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


Titus carefully considered the two proposals. He turned to Tiro. "How does the monetary offer sound to you?"

He thought for a moment. "I hardly think that we need 16 trillion. I would err on the side of 11 trillion. We don't want our new potential ally to be paying an extra 5 trillion for nothing."

"Very well," said Titus, turning of the delegation. "We do not need as much as 16 trillion in damages caused by Tocrowkian forces. More like a fair offer would be 11 trillion. All other Tocrowkian terms, however, we find favorable. I also have considered His Majesty Alaric's proposal, and I deem it, with no offense meant, unnecessary. Even if the nations who attacked Comatic forces were former Xeraphian nations, he had no control over their actions. I don't know how Velkya may feel about this.

"If Emperor Alaric insists on a monetary compensation, however, Comatica would only require 5 trillion. Though, as I said earlier, I find it a moot point."

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

"All Velkya desires is an end to the imperialistic tendencies of Tocrowgia which started this bloody war. We wish not to see young men and woman die needlessly on the field of battle, as I have seen so much in my lifetime. As of right now, however, I recommend a temporary cease-fire from all sides in the conflict to prevent further loss of life until a more permenant solution can be instituted."

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

Seeing as King Ricala had things under control...Alejandro breathed a sigh of relief...
Assuming a more formal posture. Alejandro stood back and scanned the Great Hall...Catching a glimpse. Alejandro turned and saw the Lady Priscilla...Wave to him...With a small smile...Alejandro smoothed out his suit & walked over to her...

Mi' Lady...I am elated to finally meet some of Father's Kin...He flourished with a bow...
I apologize for not meeting you at the airport...I was in conference with Alaric...Informing him of my concerns for this conference...I've had a nagging feeling as of late...So please pardon me in advance if I seem distracted...

Titus nodded. He tried to delve into his stony expression for a small smile, but the tenuous situation still didn't seem to call for it.

He brought the folder over to an armchair, and went through it more thoroughly. At length, he produced a ballpoint pen from his breast pocket and scribbled his signature, ending with a delicate flourish at the end of the 's.' He handed the folder to Tiro, and eventually Cornelius, who both signed the proposal.

Handing the papers back to the Tocrowkian stewardess, he said, "Lady Isabella, may I expect that all aggression by the Reich's soldiers be ended forthwith? Comatic forces will halt all military advancements, and all Tocrowkian POWs will be prepared for safe departure tonight."

"Yes, of course. The same will be true for all Comatican POWs."

Isabella sighed once more, and was unable to think of anything else to say.

Sethanis was watching the back-and-forth banter between Isabella, Berkely, andTitus. They had come to a place of an almost detached concern. The war was not even an issue at this point. Nor was the settlement. They each had evidently come to a bit of respect one for the other, and their awareness that they would soon be allies seemed to overshadow any negative feelings.

Sethanis walked over to the two rulers and the ambassador, clapping his hands. " Bravo, bravo! If you will forgive my aura of familiarity, you three are behaving quite civilly. And if there is to be no other arrangements, might I suggest a glass of champaign to 'seal the deal'?"

As if from nowhere, he produced a caraffe of Moet, poured a glass for Emperor Titus, Lady Isabella, Ambassador Berkely and himself. Turning to the rest of the attendees, he announced, " Ladies and gentlemen. It appears that we have an agreement here. I would like to toast the three former combatants on a job well done!"

All present clapped and cheered. Peace again reigned in Comatica, Velkya, and Tocrowkia.

Titus nodded, finally managing to crack a grin on his face. "Thank you, Sethanis." Taking hold of the glass, he added, "Let's move over to the tables. I believe it may be time for dinner."

Isabella took a sip of the wine, now in much better mood then she was just seconds ago. Then, wordlessly, she beckoned her ministers and guards to the tables.

As he stood there chatting amicably with his cousin...Though Distracted Alejandro was at ease ...Perhaps for the 1st time in awhile...Looking around he watched the various delegations mingle & converse...Catching a glimpse...His gaze returned to the main reason for this conference...The Comatic/Torowkian Delegations...All the earlier tension now appeared to have disappeared...They were now shaking hands & laughing as they dispersed...Finding his Concierge...He gave a subtle nod...Which he acknowledged...

*Ladies & Gentlemen...Dinner is now being served...If you would please be seated...

With a clap, Legions of servants appeared...Each carrying platters of food or carrying chastens of drink

Ambassador Berkely smiled, before pulling a device from his breast pocket. He flipped it on, and an holographic image appeared, a solemn man sitting on the bridge of an aircraft carrier. RADAR operators, pilots, crewmen, all waiting for the word.

"Men, cease-fire immediatly, the war is over."

A immense cheering broke out among the men, as the Admiral looked into the screen and replied, "Excellent, comrade, we make our leave tonight." The screen winked out, and Berkely placed the small device in his pocket again. He looked up and grinned as he saw the food coming towards him. "I was getting a bit hungry."

Ricala raised his glass. " Ladies and gentlemen, may I propose a toast to the leadership of Tocrowkia, Velkya, and Comatica. M'lords and ladies, here's to a job well done!"

He caught Sethanis' eye, and gave him a wink of appreciation for smoothing things out. He'd inform the Emperor immediately of the cease-fire.

" And may I thank our host, Caesar Alejandro of Mandalore Prime who's castle we're in. M'lord, youv'e outdone yourself in providing all of this lavish hospitality. You are a credit to the House of Valtane!"

Ricala offered his arm to the Duchess d'Avignon-Elyrie as Sethanis escorted Lady Isabella to the table. It was going to be a good night after all.....

"Sir, I couldn't get through to Senatorat Hencaeus," said Tiro, closing his cell phone. "I can't get good enough servince in this castle."

Titus, sitting at his place at the table, and his two ministers on either side of him, set down his wine glass and retrieved his laptop.

"Let's see if we can get him in a quick video-conference."

As the MacBook finished starting up, he opened the application and sent the commander of Comatic forces an invitation to conference. Sure enough, Hencaeus responded.

"Senatorat," Titus said, smiling brightly.

"Sir," Hencaeus said, sounding hopeful. "How's the peace conference going?"

"Tell our boys to pack up their bags; they're going home. Cease-fire. Most likely the end of this whole godawful mess."

Hencaeus cocked his head backward and laughed heartily, clapping his hands. "That's great new, sir! I had no idea that things would be resolved so quickly!"

"It really is good. No more lost lives."

Titus and his ministers returned to their meals, laughing and joking with each other and with Ambassador Berkely, spreading a good atmosphere throughout the entire delegation.

Sitting at the table…Eating dinner & enjoying the company of his fellow delegates…Alejandro had nary a care…One of the Comatican delegates just finished an anecdote…Which had the hall rolling with laughter

Suddenly one of Alejandro’s subordinate has appeared beside him…Leaning over…The subordinate began whispering in his ear…

With a sudden look of shock…Alejandro whispered softly yet assertivativly

*Are you sure! ...Has this been confirmed!

*Yes Sire…The Secretariat has confirmed it

Alejandro stood up and catching Ricala’s eye…With a subtle yet curt nod…Motioned for him to follow

Several moments later, Alejandro sat at his Father’s desk…With both Ricala & Sethanis sitting opposite of him…

*Gentleman…My Intelligence Secretariat has just confirmed several attacks on Xeraphian & Comatican Bases…
Some type of Bio/Chemical/Toxin Attack…By a yet unknown force…The Death Toll is reportably in the hundreds…
Maybe Thousands by now…I think in this conference’s best interest…
We inform the other delegate’s of the sitrep…I have already upgraded the Castle’s security level to Alpha Red 2…

Ryan stood up, pulling a bottle of infamous Selkan vodka from his other pocket.

"I propose a toast from this drink which has been apart of our culutre for centuries!"

Ricala was stunned. Not only was the nightmare of the Imperium war staring them in the face again, Ghengiz himself had hijacked a space freighter laden with Spiders and launched them against the Phoenixian capitol of Edynn.

He hurried over to Lady Isabella. " M'lady, bad news. LOKI has launched several attacks. Your nation is included in the attacks. The navys of Leocardia and Pharex are within an hour of bombarding your coastal cities. Fighter-bombers have been sighted less than 100 miles from your capitol. Emperor Titus has already taken his leave and is preparing for a counter-assault. Emperor Alaric has pledged hs support to you and all nations under attack."

Isabella was shocked, and the information took a few long seconds to absorb. Finally, she nodded.

"I understand. I must depart immediately for my Flagship in the Atlantic...I will command the naval battle from the front."

She said plainly. She informed her guards and ministers of the situation, and then she turned to the conference and bid a final good bye before leaving.