NationStates Jolt Archive

The day was brilliant and warm, as Consul Hallard, newly elected to help rule The Republic, walked through the bountiful gardens of Gargantua City State with the Prime Minister, Mrs. Monteith. Her long brown hair was swept back into a bun, and her face appeared serious, which was in stark contrast to that of Consul Hallard. Behind them loomed the massive buildings of Gargantua City State, as many were several dozen storeys tall. In order to minimize the amount of environment that they encroached upon, the buildings were built straight up, instead of sprawling to the sides. Hallard had risen to power relatively quickly, but then that was nothing new for a Gargantuan. Usually the steps were simply smaller. Previously, elections had been held approximately every year for a new Prime Minister of GCS, but now that he had been appointed a Senator for the Republic for life, he had reached the upper echelons of power in that group as well.
He was, to be honest, a little surprised. He had felt that the pacifism of his people may have turned off other nations, so he had worked at showing a tougher side of his nation as well. With some of the smartest people in existence, it hadn't taken long for them to adapt existing technologies of warfare to fit their own designs. Production capabilities were low, but growing. It just took longer to build such facilities in space, to keep their planetary environment pristine.

"Prime Minister, this day calls for celebration!" Hallard was nearly bouncing as he spoke. "Our people have unveiled plans for a new Battle Cruiser, the first of its kind for our people, and we can now help to direct the great Republic in directions of growth that would have been impossible as mere Senators. Send out messages to one and all that there is to be a grand celebration here in Gargantua. Invite anyone who is willing to come. We will set the terraformers to temporarily create large open areas for the festivities! Have our best chefs cater, bring our brightest minds to create a dazzling display! Set up this planet for a galactic party! We will attract new nations and people, showing them the prosperity and peace that can be gained through friendship with the Republic! New grand trade alliances can be born. The Republic will continue to grow under my watch, and not just in the areas of war which the old Consul's focused on. We will usher in a new era of peace, for those who wish it."

Monteith nodded in approval. "I will see to it that such a message is sent out immediately, and will have my aides begin organizing the areas you request." She looked at the man, still wearing his Senatorial toga, and smiled. It was quite a dashing outfit. "We should be ready for company in three days."

Transmission on all frequencies, to all peoples:
You are cordially invited to a formal engagement at Gargantua, located on the fringes of the Republic. Our Senator Hallard has recently been elected to the position of Consul, and in celebration has decreed that all of our space faring neighbours should be welcomed to new relations in hopes of strengthening our ties with our galactic cousins. If you are interested in attending, please respond. The party shall begin in three days time, in order to give everyone enough time to prepare.

"Incoming transmission, sir, on a general frequency. Listed as priority."
"Show me."

You are cordially invited to a formal engagement at Gargantua, located on the fringes of the Republic. Our Senator Hallard has recently been elected to the position of Consul, and in celebration has decreed that all of our space faring neighbours should be welcomed to new relations in hopes of strengthening our ties with our galactic cousins. If you are interested in attending, please respond. The party shall begin in three days time, in order to give everyone enough time to prepare.

"Forward this to the Emperor."
"Yes, sir."

The message was fowarded, and within a half hour a response was sent to the government of Gargantua City State.

To: Gargantua City State
From: The Democratic Empire of Cravan

We cordially accept your invitation, and will be sending a delegation to attend. I myself cannot attend this party personally, but I hope that the delegation has a good time and is able to open better diplomatic relations with your people. Please give my congratulations to Senator Hallard.

Emperor Craven

******************

A small task force of three Dawson-class light cruisers and six Justice-class destroyers were assembled and prepared to head out immediately with the delegation.

News had spread quickly through Zarathoft of the new Consul elections. Some of the populus were dissapointed in the new law stating that their own Empress couldn't be re-elected but they cheered none-the-less out of loyalty to the Republic. Of course the news of the celebration that was commencing in the Gargantuan City State also spread like wildfire through the populus as well. Many of the wealthy familes were boarding space craft to join the Gargantuans in the celebration, and perhaps advance their own status. The young Empress watched as many other ships were launching from various launch pads spread throughout the capital city, Zar, as she made her way to her private ship to join the festivities of the fellow Republic nation.


-----------

"Empress, we are nearing the arrival of Gargantuan. Perhaps it would be a good time to prepare. We are requesting landing permission as we speak."

"Thank you, Raiz. I shall do so, inform me when we are preparing to land." replied Avery through the comm.

"Yes, mi'lady" came the humble reply.

Avery Tarlvich slowly walked over to her closet and took out her most extravagent garment along with her. She quickly changed into it but had to move her tail around for a little while before it became comfortable. She made her way over to her jewerly box and put on the Royal necklace that was engraved with the Zarithian symbol on the front, and her family symbol on the back. With expertise, caused from years of experience, she put her hair in pony tail but left the bangs to fall on the side of her face. Lastly, she put a small amount of make up on with a little eyeshadow as well. She looked at herself in the mirror for a short time then grabbed her glass of wine and elegantly walked back to the couch she had been relaxing in before. She sat backed down sipping her wine and awaiting the time when she would land.

"Well I think it would be odd if we didn't send someone."

The thunder from the storm outside echoed throughout the marble halls of the curia as the Taledonian senate, the few that hadn't went to their homes at such an hour, deliberated the final issue. It was an odd feeling amongst the old men, especially with the Emperor gone and not expected to return for quite some time. For the first time since the founding of the Republic, the Empire was not its head.

"Then we have that much agreed upon. But who shall we send?" spoke Varus.

Octavian stood from his bench and rested his right hand on the upper fold of his toga, "I shall go. It has been some time since any of you have been outside of the Empire, much less this city. Besides, I am by far the youngest of us still in session, and the diplomatic experience would be instrumental for the future of our nation."

"Then let it be called to vote," began Gaditicus, "All those in favor of sending Senator Octavian to Gargantua, please rise." Nearly all the senators stood from their seats, whether out of actual agreement with the choice or because they wanted to stand from the uncomfortable marble and get the issue over with so they could return to their homes, it was rather late.

"Then it's settled, Octavian shall represent the Empire at this banquet. And that, gentlemen, concludes todays session. All rise for the oath." All the men within the curia rose and began to recite the oath led by Gaditicus. Octavian would leave in the morning.

The vessel Lucifer shall depart for your world as soon as possible, with us shall be Scholat Titus, student of Findus, Lord Toyo of Vale Te, and master Tale Gae Norr of the Bekhaeran order as well as the ships captain, Visceroy Marter

Thsi vessel is the only one we can spare at thsi monmet to coem to you nation seeing as the fleet is involved in internal disputes and colonization efforts

But the represantatives we bring are perfect ambassadors for our nation

A message of general greeting comes forth from the orbital space station, which maintains steady position over the city state, which is repeated for anyone who approaches within the next two days.

Welcome to Gargantua! Although you are early for the festivities, we have prepared rooms and services for all early bird guests. Please be advised that, due to planetary environmental regulations, no ships larger than shuttles are permitted to land on the planet's surface. If you have your own personal shuttle, the landing pad coordinates have been transfered to you. Otherwise, please dock your ship at our space station, with the coordinates that have been sent, and we can provide you with the necessary transportation down to the planet. Again, thank you for coming to celebrate with our people, and may you enjoy your stay on our pristine world!

To: Gargantua City State
From: The Democratic Empire of Cravan

We cordially accept your invitation, and will be sending a delegation to attend. I myself cannot attend this party personally, but I hope that the delegation has a good time and is able to open better diplomatic relations with your people. Please give my congratulations to Senator Hallard.

Emperor Craven


We thank you for your response, and look forward to meeting your delegation when they arrive.

The vessel Lucifer shall depart for your world as soon as possible, with us shall be Scholat Titus, student of Findus, Lord Toyo of Vale Te, and master Tale Gae Norr of the Bekhaeran order as well as the ships captain, Visceroy Marter

Thsi vessel is the only one we can spare at thsi monmet to coem to you nation seeing as the fleet is involved in internal disputes and colonization efforts

But the represantatives we bring are perfect ambassadors for our nation

We are sorry to hear about your internal problems. Perhaps we can discuss them further with your ambassadors when they arrive. We look forward to receiving them.

The Lucifer, the first generation vessel that ahd somehow managed to survive 700 years entered orbit around the Gargantua homeworld

"I have no idea how this ship keeps on flying but it must be luck I suppose" Scholar Titus said as he placed his scarlet robe on, Tarter looked on at the remainder of the delegation his nation were sending..

"I wish i was in Bekhaera right now... there are things that need to be dealt with" Viceroy Tarter said as he looked on at the Gargantua homeworld

"There are thinsg that shall be dealt with soon as possible young sir, for now I must attend the Gargantuan gala alongside you and our fellow delegates, it is not safe in Bekhaera for me whiel Mationbuds are there" tel Gae Norr said as he handed Lord Toyo a holo pad

"Shall we proceed to the surface? ready to enter orbit ensign Malka" orderd Tarter

Three Dawson-class cruisers and six Justice-class destroyers appeared with bright flashes, and went into orbit over GCS.

"Recieving coordinates to a landing pad, sir."
"Excellent. Tell the ambassador that his shuttle is ready."
"Aye, sir."

Miniutes later, the shuttle descended to the surface, and landed at the given coordinates. The ramp was lowered, and Ambassador Richard Illson stepped out of the small political transport shuttle with his entourage. Four men in military uniforms, unarmed save for sidearms, walked out behind the delegation. In all the delegation was composed of the ambassador and four of his personal staff, all of them dressed in the standard political business suit which endured in Cravan for millenia.

A Gargantuan female with a flowery blue dress approached the group, and nodded amicably. "Welcome to our humble home, ambassador." She looked to the guards. As lightly armed as they were, weapons tended to make most Gargantuans nervous. "If you would not mind too much, I would request that your leave your weapons on your transport. You will find no threats here on our planet. We do not even keep a police force for ourselves."

The landing pad was surrounded by large, lush trees laden with fruit, and chirping birds. Ahead, a moose stood lazily, as a couple spent their time grooming it and chatting with each other.
Ahead, the buildings of the compact city appeared to make a creamy white spire, which reached up to the stars.
Indeed, everything around would indicate to any visitors that this was a place of peaceful coexistence, between people, and between people and nature.

The ambassador nodded with a smile, and removed a sidearm from a concealed pocket in his suit jacket. He handed it to a Marine, who took the weapons back up into the shuttle, then returned to the group.

"Never can be too careful.", the ambassador said, chuckling. He then began to take in his surroundings, noting the lush environment.

"Reminds me more or less of home... At least, the countryside and forests back home. The cities aren't exactly the cleanest places, but they're very clean relatively speaking."

Nothing this clean..., he thought to himself, marvelling at the environment.

"Thank you, ambassador. It is good to know that our home is comforting. We pride ourselves very much on our technological advances in creating a clean and healthy environment for our people."
She turned, and motioned to a walkway, framed in trees which offered a cool shade, leading towards the city.
"Perhaps, if you are interested, one of our scientists and engineers could show you some of our research. We are an open people, who are more than willing to trade. Our relationship with the Republic has been fruitful, as they allow our system of trade of knowledge and goods, rather than of money, and we hope to open new negotiations with outside sources, both for ourselves, and all of the Republic. Our Senator Hallard has always been a grand visionary of ours, seeing better days for all our people, and he is hopeful that we can begin new friendships, at the very least. But listen to me, I'm babbling. Is there anything you require, ambassador?"

"I don't require anything in particular as of this moment, but thank you.", he replied.

"Very well, I will show you to your quarters, and please feel free to mingle, and enjoy out world."

Further down the path, they came to a shorter building, constructed of what appeared to be large creamy white blocks. Inside the glass doors, the air was cool and refreshing, and signs indicated that this was a guest quarters building for the coming ceremony. A young man nodded his greetings to the newcomers from behind the reception desk.
The attendant from the landing pad turned back to the ambassador with a warm smile, "I'm afraid our construction teams haven't had time to create many of the guest quarters yet, but there should be enough for you and your people. Our technology allows for 'stackable' buildings, where each block is manufactured and paid for by the government. All people get housing, which is identicle. In this way, you will be able to live the same experience as all of us here, during your stay. A working lift can take you up to your block, which is section 3. 1, here, is the lobby, and 2 is a recreation area with game tables, food, and refreshments. If that is all, I'll be heading back to the landing platform to await more guests. If you hear any strange noises from the roof of your block, it is simply additions being stacked on top for more guests. Enjoy your stay with us, and if you have further needs, simply let Timothy know at the front desk."

Empress Avery Tarlvich entered smoothly onto the shuttle, the heels of her shoes barely making a sound on the smooth surface. She flipped her hair out of annoyance as Raiz insisted that the rest of the Elite Guard accompany them for the 3rd time since she left her private room. A stern look from her and Raiz quickly gave up knowing that she was too stubburn to be convinced. Non-the-less he had a small pistol hidden within he jacket despite her order of not bringing any weopons. As soon as her two aids entered in, the door sealed and the small but roomy shuttle detached from the ship and headed towards the planet of Gargantua. Avery sat in silence while the two aids chatted nonchalantly about the famous environment of Gargantua. She observed Raiz shift nervously.

"Don't be so worried Raiz, everything will be fine. Gargantua is a peaceful planet and a fellow member of the Republic. There is nothing to be afraid of." she said kindly trying to relieve some of his stress. She knew he was only worried for her well being and she had always admired his loyalty.

"I know mi'lady, but it's just so out of the ordinary to bring me as your only guard." he replied respectfully.

"Don't fret, it's all going to be fine."

Raiz opened his mouth to speak again but was cut off as the pilot annouced their arrival. The door of the shuttle slid opened and the two aids rushed to see the surface. Avery smiled at how noticiable their childness was, expecially since they waved their tails excitedly around, but inside she was just as excited as them. She flattened out her dress and brushed one of her bangs out of her eye before preceding to the door. She started to walk out of the shuttle but suddenly paused.

"Raiz, leave your pistol in here. I don't know why you even tried to attempt it, I know you better than that." She heard a sigh behind her as she continued walking.

"Welcome, delegates from Zarathoft," a tall, middle aged man said, nodding politely as he greeted the Empress. "You are the first from the Republic to grace our world for the festivities. We have word that it is quite the gathering up in the space surrounding our world, and we are glad that friends and strangers alike can join us." He turned and motioned down a path similar to the one the Cravan representatives had walked down. "Please, allow me to show you to your quarters, before heading off to enjoy the sights of our fair planet."

"A little obsessed with the environment, are they not Cicero?" Octavian sat in the small shuttle as it sped over the landscape of the planet. It was interesting to see how much the planet had changed since it was given to the Gargantuans as a gift. Sometimes he wondered at how generous the Empire could be.

Cicero, a man of medium height with kept brown hair on his head and a slight build, showing that unlike most of the fleshy senators, he at least made an attempt to keep in shape. "Well, they seem to be doing well, whatever their goals."

The shuttle came down within the pleasant landing zone the Gargantuans had set up, and after a few seconds the doors opened and lowered into a ramp. Octavian stepped out into the hot sun, and immeadiatly wished for the cool rains of his city. His golden curls shone in the light, and he rubbed his hand through them as he looked around. He and Cicero had had taken every percaution to keep up appearances, and had adorned their best tunics of white cotton with red embroidery around the edges. Elegant toga's of crimson were wrapped around them as well, and they revelled in the fact that the light clothing let the breeze in to cool them, even if ever so slightly.

"Welcome, Taledonians. Representatives from Zarathoft arrived not long ago," stated an elderly man with a big smile. His head was bald, but his eyes looked bright and full of life. "If you'll follow me, I hope we have arrangements prepared for you by the time we get to the new guest quarters. We haven't had much in the way of visitors since we got this planet from you, so everything's busy, busy, busy! I trust your travels here were pleasant?"

Indeed, the guest quarters building was growing, with two new fresh blocks placed on top, making the building visible from further away. There was now room for the Zarathoft and Taledonian delegates. The new building, however, looked slightly out of place, away from the towering spires of the city proper. It was actually an attempt by Gargantua to show great respect for their friends and allies, dedicating an entirely new area to their arrival. Gargantuans took encroaching upon nature very seriously, so a new building so far out was almost unheard of.

Octavian returned the friendly smile with one of his own, and nodded in satisfaction. "Yes, thank you, it was a pleasant trip. I like what you've done with the place, very beautiful. Stunning would be a better word. Ah, where are my manners? This is my collegue, Senator Titus Cicero, and I myself am Senator Octavius Dominus. I hope we aren't late for the festivities." The two Taledonians then followed the welcoming party as they were led to their temporary lodgings.

"A pleasure to meet you, Dominus, and Cicero. I'm Quincy. Late? No, no, the terraformers are just finishing up. Once they get the area fully prepared for the party, a message will be brought to all of the ambassadors. It shouldn't be too long."
The old man lead them into the growing tower, and he gave them the same welcome Cravan and Zarathoft had been given, indicating that their block was the 5th, just above the Zarathoft delegation.

Later:

Hallard arrived on a small floating pad, the form of public transport favoured by the Gargantuans as it utilized an air hovering technology which did not cause undo strain on the environment, while providing space-efficient movement. Today, this particular pad and many others were heavily laden with people, and the pads were mere centimeters from the ground as everyone was coming for the banquet.

Hallard waved to Captain Jones, who was dressed in his formal military attire for GCS. "Jones, it's good to see you. I was hoping to run into you here."

The young man bowed before the Senator, before walking towards the building where the delegates from the visiting nations were. Jones looked awkward in the formal situation, but was dealing with it as best he could.

"I wanted to ask you," Hallard started, "How you would like to Captain the Torrak ship that is being constructed."

"Really?" Jones knew he was the highest ranking, and most experienced Captain in the GCS fleet, but he had thought he would be piloting the Joorian research vessel for the rest of his career. Afterall... "What about Poocher? You know he's..."

Hallard laughed, squeezing Jones' arm. "I'm sure Poocher will appreciate a position as head engineer aboard the Hallard, yes?"

Jones smiled and nodded. "In that case, it would be an honour. But what about the Joorian?"

"We have a new class of research vessel now. We won't need those massive transports anymore. However, there is one thing... if you captain this new ship, it's going to mean much more responsibility than captaining a research vessel. And with that, I think it's time you joined the Republic officer pool."

The weight of the words hit Jones, and he stopped walking, staring at the Consul. "Sir..."

"Yes, Jones, I see great potential in you. I will award you the first rank of Republic officer at the banquet, so make sure you don't drink too much, because we expect a speech!"

Jones grinned, and offered his thanks, quickly leaving to find Poocher in the crowded area that had been cleared for the festivities. Hallard continued on to see if he could find the delegates, as he heard an orchestra start up in the field in the distance.

Hallard turned away from a terminal inside the guest building, where he'd made a quick check on the Senate, and turned to the young man at the desk. "Excuse me, what's your name?"

"Timothy, sir," he replied, a little nervously.

"You look a bit old to be going by first names, still. What's your last name?"

"Gillian, sir."

"Well then, Gillian, could you get ahold of the representatives who have arrived so far? Everything's set up outside, and I've finally found a moment to meet with them!"

"Yes, sir."

"Now, Gillian, if you're going by your last name, you can call me by my last as well. None of this 'sir' business. Neither of us are in the military. Please, call me Hallard. Now, if you'll let them know, I'll wait for them just outside."

"Yes, Hallard," young Gillian responded with a smile, before going about his duties.

The Bekhaeran delegation arrived on the surface of the planet as the Lucifer orbited in space, the delegation comprised essentailly of a motley crew of oddjobs throughout the empire, all they could suffice at this time

"Well here we are, Gargantua City State... dont forget we are here to make allies" Viceroy Tarter ordered to Titus and co

A Gargantuan official walked towards them, Tarter felt that thsi would help relieve his worries about the war if he was succesful in gaining a new ally

A young lady welcomed the Bekhaerans with a bright smile, on a similarly brilliant morning. "Welcome! The festivities have just begun! They're not a far walk from here, if you'd like to follow me."
The sun was hot, but a refreshing cool breeze made the heat bearable, and the sounds of the orchestra playing some light music drifted to their ears. Rounding a bend in the path, they could see hundreds of people out in a wide open area, with a few tents set up with food, information about the Republic, and samples of Gargantuan technologies open for trade. Despite the low turn out from other nations outside the Republic, the place was buzzing with excitement over the new importance of the planet in the region.
"I'm sorry I have to leave you at this point, but if you should need anything, just ask anyone around, and I'm sure they will be more than willing to help."