NationStates Jolt Archive

Royal Palace, Euphova

It had been nearly two months since the Vernberg Crisis has had been settled, and the city had returned to peace. Growth and change seemed to be on the horizon, and a key part of this was establishing relations with new nations.

Recently the Empire had been introduced to Neo-Ixania, as the two nations had recently claimed portions of the South American continent. Relations on the continent had so far been peaceful, and the Empire hoped that formal relations would allow them to develop an even closer relationship.

As a sign of goodwill, the Empire had invited a delegate of Neo-Ixania to meet with the Empress. Today the palace was abuzz with activity as maids, gardeners, and other servants prepared the palace for the event. Hedges were trimmed, marble floors waxed, silver was polished, and chandeliers were dusted. The palace was supposed to be a showpiece, reflecting the strength and wealth of the country, and nothing could be out of place.

Mei was busying herself with her appearance, making sure that she presented a flawless image to the foreign delegate. She knew very little about the country, except that it was an absolute monarchy headed by an empress, no doubt one less attractive and intelligent than herself. She was to meet with a delegate, rather than the empress herself, but she hoped to soon meet the woman.

A lower adviser handed her a small packet of information on the country and the delegate. "My lady, I suggest you look over this, the delegate should be arriving at the airport in a few hours."

"Is the welcoming committee in place?"

"Yes, Your Highness, an official limo has been sent to greet the delegate, filled with all the amenities one could wish for." Mei was happy that everything was in place, and hoped that the delegate would be awestruck by his visit. The motorcade was to lead the person by some of the greatest sights in the city on the way to the palace.

All things proceeding as expected, the empress began to read the information prepared for her, and waited for the delegate to arrive at the airport.

Vittorio Castafiore had recently become a diplomat after his acting career; one which was marked by the many girls he had attracted by his attractiveness and charm and the several films he appeared in. He was the son of a wealthy landowner of Italian ancestry and only became a diplomat so he could fulfill his dream of traveling to other nations; so without regret he accepted the task of meeting the Empress of Mephras.

Dressed in the best suit he could find, he sat in the plane anxiously awaiting the meeting with Mei Mian. He had heard that she was beautiful and that she had been in trouble for her affair with a man from Damirez; such stories interested people in Neo-Ixania. Vittorio thought about his own love-life, thinking that he could meet a woman in Mephras but his mind told him to focus on his job. The flight attendant on the plane looked appealing and he talked to her for five minutes; she told him the plane would land after five minutes.

The plane gently landed on the runway and Vittorio smiled at the attendant as she opened the door for him. He looked around as he walked out with his briefcase in one hand and the other in his pocket; expecting to be greeted by some Mephrasians. "I can expect a limosuine...probably filled with amentities."

He thought about the flight attendant as he waited to be taken to the Empress of Mephras; the anxiety within him still at a high level. This was his first diplomatic visit to another nation and he did not want to ruin the chances Neo-Ixania had for good relations with Mephras.

Eva Langston stood patiently by the limousine as she waited for the ambassador's plane to land. A recent graduate of the National Diplomatic Academy, she was at 23 the youngest member of the diplomatic corps, and this was her first big mission. Granted she was only charged with greeting the Neo-Ixanian, taking him on a short tour, and presenting him to the palace, but she didn't want to mess it up.

She looked on as the delegate emerged from the plane. She couldn't place it, but she felt that she might have seen him in a movie before. She glanced at her packet of information, and saw his name. Vittorio Castafiore! I have seen one of his films! He was definitely good looking, something often noticed by the single Eva, but she wasn't going to let that get in the way while she was working. She approached the delegate, and extended her hand, "Greetings Mr. Castafiore, my name is Eva Langston. I would like to welcome you to Mephras."

"This woman is beautiful...."

Vittorio smiled as he held Eva's hand; immediately thinking she had been sent to greet him and take him to the palace. In his mind, Eva Langston was a beautiful woman but he decided to focus on his job rather than Eva. "It is a pleasure to be in Mephras and to meet a beautiful woman such as yourself, Miss Langston."

As he walked into the limosuine with her, Vittorio adjusted himself in his seat and smiled. "Miss Langston, it will be a pleasure to meet the Empress of Mephras. I am here to establish trade and exchange embassies with your nation but if it is possible; we could talk about an alliance. Neo-Ixania's foreign policy includes the search for new friends and hopefully Mephras will be a friend of Neo-Ixania after this meeting."

As Vittorio took her hand and spoke, she couldn't help but blush slightly. She tried her best to conceal it, and was soon back to business. As they entered the limousine, Eva explain further. "On the way to the palace, we shall take a quick tour of the capital Euphova. It is a city with a long history, and has many beautiful buildings and monuments."

Eva motioned to the driver, and the limo began on its journey from the airport. The airport lay on the outskirts of the city, a sprawling metropolis of over 25 million people. Soon the limo was entering the city proper. Eva turned to the window, and pointed at the large fountain and plaza which sat just outside. "This is the Fountain of Serenity. I was constructed over 300 years ago to commemorate the unification of the lands that today make up Mephras."

Vittorio noticed Eva blushing before he smiled at her as they walked to the limosuine; he was glad to be able to have a tour of Euphova before he arrived at the palace. "It will be a pleasure to have a tour of the city, Miss Langston."

Looking out the window, Vittorio could see the Fountain of Serenity; he listened silently to Eva talking about its history. "It is a exquisite fountain, Eva. I am sure that many citizens visit the fountain and the surrounding plaza during the week."

"Yes, the fountain is a popular place for office workers to have lunch during the spring. It is also a favorite spot for teenagers to meet on the weekends." Indeed, the plaza was filled with people, men and women dressed in suits, teenagers just out from school, along with a fair number of tourists taking pictures of the fountain.

The limo continued to snake through the streets of the city, catching midday traffic in the newly growing financial district. New skyscrapers were under construction in an area which had seen tough times in the past few years. She turned to Vittorio, and explained, "Unfortunately, we have hit some traffic. This is the financial district, the third largest in the country. We hope that it will be able to grow larger as our economic situation improves. The traffic should clear shortly, but for now, we can enjoy the skyscrapers. Would you be interested in a beverage?"

Vittorio looked at the people at the plaza from the limosuine with a smile on his face; the people reminded him of the cities in Neo-Ixania and the days he spent with his friends. As he looked out the window, he could see the skyscrapers in the distance and the cars that surrounded the limosuine. "What beverages do you have, Miss Langston?"

As he waited for the traffic to clear, Vittorio looked out the window but occassionally looked at Eva. He thought she was a beautiful woman. "Miss Langston, thank you for the tour of Euphova."

"We have mineral water, various juices, I'd offer alcohol, but I think it's a bit early for that." Eva chuckled to herself. She couldn't help noticing his glances out of the corner of her eye. She was quite enamored with the thought that a man like Vittorio might be interested in her. Calm down, Eva, let's do your job before we think about leisure.

She snapped back to attention as the limo began to move again. They were only a few minutes from the city center, and the palace where the meeting would take place. She pointed out the window to an opulent building crowned by a gilded dome. "That building is the National Parliament. While Mephras is an Empire, we have a long history of representative government, starting with the creation of our first constitution in 1530."

"Eva....she is a beautiful woman...."

Snapping back to attention, Vittorio smiled at his Mephrasian acquaintance as he asked for a glass of one of the juices. "I must say that the building is an impressive structure; it reminds me of certain buildings in Neo-Ixania. My own nation has a history of representative government but is more aligned to absolute monarchy."

He studied Eva with his eyes silently before smiling at her again. "Tell me about yourself, Eva. What motivated such a beautiful woman like yourself to pursue the political life?"

Eva again blushed at the advance of the ambassador. "You are really too kind." She giggled and brushed her hair off of her shoulder. "I have been interested in politics since I entered high school. I always wanted to help steer our country towards a brighter future. Ever since then, I've felt that it was almost a duty of mine" She paused to reflect on the path that had taken her to her current job. "It isn't an easy life...but it has its perks. But I guess you would know, how did you become interested in politics?"

Vittorio smiled at Eva before he began listening to her talk about how she became involved in politics. "I was an actor at first but I was interested in traveling to other nations; and I knew that diplomats traveled to other nations so I joined the Foreign Ministry and became a diplomat. This is my first foreign visit to another nation but I must say that it has been a pleasure to be here and to have a attractive woman such as yourself who is generous enough to give me a tour of Euphova. By the way, when shall we arrive at the Palace? I am anxious to meet the Empress."

Just as Vittorio had asked his question, the limo pulled into the front gate of the Royal Palace. The building was rather large, and constructed in an elaborate rococo style. "Well funny you should ask, as we have just arrived at the palace. I guess this is where I say goodbye, and wish you luck with the Empress." Eva, paused for a second, and then pulled closer to Vittorio. In a whisper, she began. "I know we are on business, but....here's my number...if you're ever in Euphova again, don't hesitate to call me up. She shot him a flirtatious wink, and walked off to catch a separate car which would take her back to the ministry. As she opened the door of her car, she turned back. "Good Luck!" And she was off.

Vittorio was not unaccompanied, as Franz Donda, the Chief Imperial Steward, had been summoned to greet the delegate. He smiled warmly and began. "Good afternoon, Mister Castafiore, the Empress has been expecting you. Follow me, and I shall lead you to the meeting room. I you have any questions before meeting the empress, feel free to ask me anything." He motioned to the doormen, and the massive doors opened as the two men stepped into the great hall.

"Eva gave me her number?"

Vittorio was surprised to see Eva giving him his phone number and he grinned as he listened to her; he knew that she must have liked him. Vittorio put the phone number away and watched Eva leave him before she extended his hand to Franz who had been walking towards him and smiled. "It is nice to meet you, sir. As for meeting the Empress; is there anything that I should know?"

When he entered the Great Hall, Vittorio silently looked for the Empress; hoping to see the woman he would be meeting with. He was anxious to see her; and hoped that the meeting would be a success.

Franz led Vittorio quickly through the hall. "Not in particular, the Empress seems to be in good spirits today, so everything should go fine. I would advise against discussing the Empress's personal life. She appreciates her privacy in those matters." Going up a large staircase, they turned, and another doorman opened a door to a medium sized room.

Bookcases lined one side of the room, while the other side was dominated by floor to ceiling windows looking out over the courtyard. In the center, a large oak table was set, with chairs on both sides. At the far end sat the Empress, who upon seeing Vittorio, quickly rose and walked toward him. She extended her hand, and spoke warmly. "Welcome to Mephras, I am, of course, Empress Mei.I hope that your journey so far has been acceptable? How do you find our country?"

"I shall not ask any questions about her personal life, sir. I will focus on diplomatic questions."

Walking into the Grand Hall, Vittorio could see the Empress at her chair and silently studied her with his eyes. He thought she was a beautiful woman but he decided to focus on the meeting. With a smile, he bowed and introduced himself. "I am Vittorio Castafiore, a diplomat of the Empire of Neo-Ixania. Your Majesty, it is a pleasurable honor to meet you and my journey has been acceptable. Your country is a good nation to visit and I must say that the woman you sent to greet me, Miss Langston, was an attractive woman. Now, shall we discuss diplomatic relations?"

Mei chuckled at the words of the ambassador. "I had no part in choosing the person who welcomed you, but I am glad she was up to your standards." She then turned, and offered him a seat at one end of the table. Tea was poured by a servant waiting on the side of the room. "I too, am eager to discuss relations, however I would first like to learn a bit more about your country. I have read a few things, but I would like an insider's take on the country."

"Yes; she was attractive but my focus is talking to you about diplomatic relations. As for knowledge about my nation, I assume you know that Neo-Ixania is an absolute monarchy. It believes in total neutrality in all foreign conflicts, is a member of the Fegosian Union and has made many friends in this world. Is there anything specific you wish to know?"

Vittorio took a cup of tea from the servant and thanked him before smiling at Mei. "I thank you for your hospitality, Your Majesty. To be honest, I never expected to meet you instead of a diplomat; but then again, I am glad to have met you."

Mei paused when the words Fegosian Union slipped from the mouth of the diplomat. "So you decided to join that organization?" Mei was not particularly fond of the Fegosians, and their attempts to paint themselves as a power. "Oh well, moving on, yes, I prefer handling diplomacy on my own, although one day I hope to meet your Empress. I am very glad to here of your neutrality. Mephras has been able to largely swear off war, keeping our military costs small, and allowing us to spend money in more important areas."

Mei took a small sip of the tea, and continued. "We are interested in trade relations as well. If that would be possible, I would like to know more about your economy, and what goods you currently export."

"Yes; after some debating, our nation joined the Fegosian Union. One of the Empress' sisters, Princess Catherine, is currently visiting Alfegos; which has proved itself to be a friend of Neo-Ixania; we have an alliance with them As for meeting the Empress, we can arrange a meeting after she is finished her World Tour; I am sure she will want to meet you; she always enjoys making friends on a personal level, so I have heard from others. Neo-Ixania's military focuses on national defense and we do not think much about sacrificing our soldiers on the bloody altars of war if there is no threat to our nation or its interests. That has been government policy since the reign of the Empress' father and has been very popular amongst politicians. The Empress has handled some diplomacy but she mostly relies on the Foreign Minister and other diplomats."

Vittorio paused to take a small sip of his tea before he continued. "Neo-Ixania exports silk, soda, furniture, diamonds and other items. The arms manufacturing industry seems to be thriving; though it is under government regulation. Soda, I think, is an interesting export. The Karasov family have held power in the Soda Sales industry with their family-owned company for many years in Neo-Ixania. What goods does Mephras export?"

"I would love to meet with your Empress eventually, I too enjoy meeting new friends. It can be hard to find friends as an Empress, people are often intimidated by women in power." She laughed lightly at her statement, masking the melancholy truth of her statement. "I have a sibling, a brother, who is currently heading the colonization efforts in the Americas, which I hope will allow our countries to interact even further."

She looked quickly out the window, it the courtyard garden, which had just begun to bloom again. "The Mephrasian economy has just begun to recover from years of depression, however we are beginning to open our country. Our largest industries lie in Book Publishing, Gambling, and Soda Sales. Our export market has been weak, but we are looking to strengthen it. While we are always looking to expand our economy, we also realize that the people always come before profit."

"I am sure that the Empress will be glad to be able to meet you. She has several siblings and there has been popular support for her as the Empress of Neo-Ixania. Some men like her for obvious reasons; it is not uncommon to hear their praises of her beauty. I am sure that our colonization efforts in the Americas will allow our nations to interact even further. I think a good idea would be to establish a foreign student exchange program and help tourists be able to avoid certain restrictions. Also, we can discuss citizenship laws between us in case some of our citizens intermarry."

Vittorio took a sip of his tea. "We are interested in trading goods with Mephras, Your Majesty. Our nation can accomodate Mephrasian soda; though the Karasov family soda will probably retain its position as the most popular soft drink. We can trade you diamonds, silk and other goods; are there any goods that Mephras needs?"

Mei smiled gently when Vittorio mentioned the beauty of his empress. Mei, while a generous ruler, was a deeply vain woman, who prided herself on her looks. "Would your empress be considered a classical beauty, or a more exotic woman? Our nation is one of extremely diverse peoples, and our aesthetic for beauty might be somewhat....different than that of a more homogeneous nation." Mei gave a small flirtatious pose, and winked at the ambassador.

What am I doing, calm down you idiot! Mei quickly snapped back to attention, and brushed her hair out of her face. "Yes we would love to participate in cultural change. As a sign of goodwill, we shall ease passport restrictions on Neo-Ixanians who wish to travel to Mephras, and I personally shall establish a scholarship fund for Neo-Ixanians who wish to study in our nation." Mei was an extremely wealthy woman in her own right, and such a move would not dent her wealth.

"Unfortunately, our markets for such high value goods as silk and diamonds is somewhat weak right now, although I would certainly love to examine some of these goods. Our nation has recently developed a large want for electronics, along with more advanced farm equipment. Our nation is very dense, and we are attempting to produce as much of our food as possible, although that is another thing will still tend to import large quantities of."

Vittorio was surprised to see Empress Mei giving him a flirtatious pose and a wink; he did not expect her to do such actions. "Your Majesty, the Empress is more of a classical beauty, I suppose. Our nation was once homogeneous but with the influx of European settlers; especially Germans, we are now multicultural. The Empress, for example, has German ancestry from her mother and Ixanian from her father. I am one of the Italian-Ixanians; both of my parents are Italians."

He took a sip of his tea and smiled. "Cultural change would be acceptable; and I am sure many people will be glad to see passport restrictions eased. A scholarship fund is a good idea; and it is nice to see you personally establishing it from your own funds."

Vittorio took another sip of his tea. "I do not have any of those goods with me but I can arrange a shipment or two; and I believe Neo-Ixania can spare some electronics and farm equipment to send to Mephras. As for food, we can send some of that too. In Neo-Ixania, we can accept technology; healthcare and education technology for example."

OOC: Sorry I haven't replied sooner. Been busy with school.

IC:"That sounds very agreeable, however I feel the best course of action would be to review certain trade policies, and looking into possible reductions of tariffs, along with allowing freer movements of traders between our two territories. We will allow greater access to our electronics and luxury markets. Would you be interested in developing a trade show which would showcase Neo-Ixanian goods, and acquaint Mephrasians with them? We would be interested with doing the same in your nation."

Mei took another sip of tea, as she searched for more issues to discuss. "What is the general geography of your nation? Do you have a large seacoast, what is the climate like?"

OOC: That's okay, I understand.

Vittorio smiled. "All of those ideas are good, Your Majesty. I am sure the Neo-Ixanian Government would support the development of a trade show such as the one you described. I think it is a good idea; it will allow us to share ideas, technology and goods."

He took a sip of tea before giving Mei another smile. "We have plenty of mountains and forests; there are several rivers and lakes to be found. Our Navy enjoys using the large seacoast that we have; and so do the fishermen who sail along the coast and tourist resorts. The climate is temperate, I believe, with cold winter temperatures and hot summer temperatures. Sometimes you have to wear a good amount of warm clothes on one day but you will find people shedding un-necessary clothes and dressing in tank-tops during the summer."

"So you have unpredictable weather sometimes? Some areas of our country are like that as well?" Our southern areas have a subtropical climate, while certain southeaster areas have a more Mediterranean climate. The other areas of the country generally enjoy a continental climate. Luckily today was pleasant in the capital, as it is known to rain fairly often." Mei looked down into her cup, realizing it was empty.

"Is there anything else you would like to do or see while in the capital? Do you have any other issues you would like to bring up?"

"It is not really unpredictable; I am saying that weather can depend on the season. It is nice to learn about the weather that you can expect to see in Mephras, Your Majesty. As for what I want to do or see, I was hoping Miss Langston and I could continue our tour of Euphova and visit the city's historic landmarks, etc. She gave me a small tour as we drove to the Palace and I hope we can continue it. As for other issues, I believe we should sign a treaty to make all of our plans official."

"Certainly, that would be an excellent idea. I shall have her summoned while were we finish drafting this treaty. Shall we call it a general treaty of friendship?" She snapped her fingers and two servants brought in some paper. The royal drafters were brought in, and the groups laid down what had been spoken into a written form acceptable to both parties.

As the drafters continued to work, Mei smiled at the ambassador. "Well, this could take a while. If you'd like, we could finish drafting the treaty and you could return after the tour to review the items, and give your approval. Would that be acceptable?"

"It is not a problem for me to call it a treaty of friendship; I am glad that I was able to obtain your support, Your Majesty."

Vittorio smiled as he watched the drafters walk into the room with the treaty. He watched them work for several minutes before he focused his eyes on the Empress' face. "It will be nice to return to the tour while I wait for the drafters to be finished; it is acceptable to me. Please summon Miss Langston."

Upon hearing the approval of the Neo-Ixanian diplomat, Mei rose to send him off. She shook his hand warmly and spoke. "Thank you very much for your interest in our country. I feel that what has been discussed today will bring about a new era of prosperity and growth for both our peoples. Please enjoy the rest of your visit."

With that, the palace steward escorted Vittorio back out to the front court of the palace, where a limousine was waiting. Eva was standing in front of the car, smiling broadly. "I didn't expect to see you again so soon, but I'm certainly glad I have. The Empress has given us box seats at the premier of a new Mephrasian Opera. Our opera has a long history, and the Imperial Opera House has just recently been renovated. It should truly be an amazing spectacle."

"You are welcome, Your Majesty. Neo-Ixania looks forward to creating friendship and I am glad to tell my government that Mephras is a new friend of the Empire. Thank you for your time."

Vittorio smiled at Eva as he walked towards the limosuine; sensing that she liked him. "It will be nice to see the premier of a new Mephrasian Opera, Miss Langston. I look forward to seeing it. I hope to find a program of the premier; so I know what the premier is about. I am sure that you can be my translator."

Vittorio got into the limosuine and smiled at Eva. "My meeting with the Empress of Mephras was productive; she was a nice and beautiful woman. I hope that the remainder of my visit will be good and that you can continue our tour of Euphova with me."

She smiled gently as she looked at Vittorio. "I am glad that the meeting was productive. Hopefully our nations will have many years of friendship." They got into the limo, and Eva spoke quickly to the driver. "Go to the fashion district." She turned and winked at Vittorio. "If we are going to the opera, we must look our best, don't you think?" She giggled slightly, "So what did you really think of the Empress, were you nervous? I've heard that she can sometimes be intimidating."

"If we are going to the fashion district to buy suitable clothes; then I hope I can find a good suit that fits me. As for the Empress, I thought she was not intimidating but rather nice; a woman who does not seem to be snobbish or strict. She wanted to meet the Empress of Neo-Ixania and asked me about her. I told her that she was a beautiful woman, but to be honest, I think you are more attractive. Now, concerning the opera, do you know what the premier will be about? Can you give me a synopsis?"

bump.

OOC: Sorry, been a bit busy

IC: Eva was somewhat pleasantly surprised by the comments of Vittorio, as the Empress had often been somewhat poorly viewed by the outside world. She tensed up slightly when he said she was more beautiful, as comments like that could harm her career in politics. Mei was a woman with power, and she wasn't afraid to use it.

She turned to Vittorio to explain the Opera. "Well, the title is Belle de la Sud. It is based on old legends which speak of a young girl from the south who came to the capital and became one of the greatest queens in the history of our country. The whole of Euphova Society should be there, including the Empress herself."

The car pulled up to the curb on the side of a long street which was flanked on both sides by classical buildings. Wealthy Euphovans walked slowly on each side, taking their time to look at the window displays in the front of each shop. "Welcome to the fashion district, are you ready to do some shopping?"

OOC: Sorry, been a bit busy

[QUOTE]Eva was somewhat pleasantly surprised by the comments of Vittorio, as the Empress had often been somewhat poorly viewed by the outside world. She tensed up slightly when he said she was more beautiful, as comments like that could harm her career in politics. Mei was a woman with power, and she wasn't afraid to use it.

She turned to Vittorio to explain the Opera. "Well, the title is Belle de la Sud. It is based on old legends which speak of a young girl from the south who came to the capital and became one of the greatest queens in the history of our country. The whole of Euphova Society should be there, including the Empress herself."

Vittorio could see Eva tense up slightly after she heard his compliment but he decided not to ask about it. He simply looked at her with a smile and began talking. "The story sounds interesting and your description of it makes me feel that the girl had to go through troubles and hardships to become the Queen. I can remember the opera productions that I have seen in Neo-Ixania; though I am not a fanatical fan of the whole opera scene. I am sure that by "Euphova Society", you mean the wealthy aristocrats."

The car pulled up to the curb on the side of a long street which was flanked on both sides by classical buildings. Wealthy Euphovans walked slowly on each side, taking their time to look at the window displays in the front of each shop. "Welcome to the fashion district, are you ready to do some shopping?"

"Yes; I am ready to do some shopping, Miss Langston. I would like to purchase a simple suit that will fit me; one that would be good for attending the opera."

After Vittorio's comments, Eva thought it would be best to better explain the idea of nobility in the nation. "Well, Mephras does have an aristocratic class, although they hold no true political power. Generally titles are gifted for great service or recognition by the empress. While many of them are wealthy, not all are, and many extremely wealthy members of high society are not necessarily nobility. While we are an empire, we also take great pride in the idea of social mobility and equality. Does Neo-Ixania have a hereditary nobility?"

As the question left her mouth, Eva began to search the street for an appropriate store for menswear. She tapped Vittorio, and beckoned. "Here, follow me, this store is known as one of the best menswear tailors in the whole of the city, I'm sure they will have something that will suit your taste."

After Vittorio's comments, Eva thought it would be best to better explain the idea of nobility in the nation. "Well, Mephras does have an aristocratic class, although they hold no true political power. Generally titles are gifted for great service or recognition by the empress. While many of them are wealthy, not all are, and many extremely wealthy members of high society are not necessarily nobility. While we are an empire, we also take great pride in the idea of social mobility and equality. Does Neo-Ixania have a hereditary nobility?"

"Yes; Neo-Ixania has a hereditary nobility but they do not hold as much power as they did centuries ago; there are laws which limit their power. Not all wealthy people in the Empire are members of the nobility and some people are rewarded with land and titles. Some people own land in Neo-Ixania but not all of them are members of the nobility."

As the question left her mouth, Eva began to search the street for an appropriate store for menswear. She tapped Vittorio, and beckoned. "Here, follow me, this store is known as one of the best menswear tailors in the whole of the city, I'm sure they will have something that will suit your taste."

Vittorio followed Eva into the store and began examining the suits that they had; hoping to find a good suit to wear to the opera. As he looked at the suits, he thought about Eva. It took him several minutes to find a suit that he liked; he tried it on and smiled at Eva as he beckoned her to him. "This suit is good for me; it fits and I think it is a good suit to wear to the opera. I want to purchase it."

"Yes; Neo-Ixania has a hereditary nobility but they do not hold as much power as they did centuries ago; there are laws which limit their power. Not all wealthy people in the Empire are members of the nobility and some people are rewarded with land and titles. Some people own land in Neo-Ixania but not all of them are members of the nobility."

"That is very interesting, perhaps one day members of our two nobles classes will intermarry. Speaking of marriage, is your empress married, or currently engaged?"


Vittorio followed Eva into the store and began examining the suits that they had; hoping to find a good suit to wear to the opera. As he looked at the suits, he thought about Eva. It took him several minutes to find a suit that he liked; he tried it on and smiled at Eva as he beckoned her to him. "This suit is good for me; it fits and I think it is a good suit to wear to the opera. I want to purchase it."

Mei smiled as she looked at Vittorio with the suit that he had chosen. The suit was very nice. "You have exquisite taste." She expected that he would look quite handsome tonight. She went over to the counter, and spoke to the designer. "Thank you so much for your help, put this suit on the empress's tab." Mephras was not going to let a foreign ambassador pay for this, as they wished to treat their newest friends with respect. She turned to Vittorio. "Now I have to find something to wear as well." She looked quickly at her watch. "We better hurry, it's only 4 hours till the opera begins."

"That is very interesting, perhaps one day members of our two nobles classes will intermarry. Speaking of marriage, is your empress married, or currently engaged?"

"Perhaps one day members of our nobilities will intermarry. As for the Empress; she is not married nor engaged but has spoken about marriage; saying she will marry when she finds the man that she loves."



Mei smiled as she looked at Vittorio with the suit that he had chosen. The suit was very nice. "You have exquisite taste." She expected that he would look quite handsome tonight. She went over to the counter, and spoke to the designer. "Thank you so much for your help, put this suit on the empress's tab." Mephras was not going to let a foreign ambassador pay for this, as they wished to treat their newest friends with respect. She turned to Vittorio. "Now I have to find something to wear as well." She looked quickly at her watch. "We better hurry, it's only 4 hours till the opera begins."

"I try to look my best during a social event, Miss Langston and I am sure you can find something good to wear; a dress that will make you stunning for the night, though in my eyes you already are stunning regardless."

Vittorio smiled as he followed Eva out of the store; pointing to several stores in the distance that he thought would have a good opera dress for Eva. He would occassionally study her and think about the opera; it would be nice to have an experience with Mephrasian culture.

OOC: Apologies again

IC: Having quickly found a suit for Vittorio, they went to find a dress shop. While Eva considered herself a somewhat fashionable woman, she had never purchased a dress this extravagant before. She hoped that Vittorio would be able to help her choose a dress that would look good on her. She turned to him and spoke. "I hope that you can help me find a good dress. I must admit, I'm not extremely used to this end of town." She chuckled. "I'm paid well, but not that well."

As they walked down the promenade, gazing in the store windows of the various stores, she continued to speak. "I think your empress is very smart. There are many men out there who would wish to marry her for position, but I believe she is better to wait for true happiness."

Suddenly, a dress caught her eye in one of the windows. "I really like that one, lets go in and see how it looks."

OOC: Apologies again

OOC: It is okay. You can tell me on telegram if you think you will be gone for a while.

IC: Having quickly found a suit for Vittorio, they went to find a dress shop. While Eva considered herself a somewhat fashionable woman, she had never purchased a dress this extravagant before. She hoped that Vittorio would be able to help her choose a dress that would look good on her. She turned to him and spoke. "I hope that you can help me find a good dress. I must admit, I'm not extremely used to this end of town." She chuckled. "I'm paid well, but not that well."

"I understand, Eva. I can tell you that I have saved up money from my days as an actor and live in splendor. I am sure we will find a dress that will compliment your attractive figure."

As they walked down the promenade, gazing in the store windows of the various stores, she continued to speak. "I think your empress is very smart. There are many men out there who would wish to marry her for position, but I believe she is better to wait for true happiness."

"I am sure that the Empress will eventually find someone that she loves; though she is sure to get suitors swarming her. She has been interviewed about marriage by reporters; and she has said that she is waiting to find the man that she loves. She is not a snobbish woman, Eva, she actually is quite nice; I met her once."

Suddenly, a dress caught her eye in one of the windows. "I really like that one, lets go in and see how it looks."

Vittorio smiled as he took Eva into the door and watched her talk to a clerk about the dress. When she took it, Vittorio smiled and waited to see if it fit Eva; it looked like a dress that would make her more beautiful if worn. "Miss Langston! Does the dress fit?"

"Yes, it seems to fit quite well." She looked into the mirror, and turned to see the back. It was without doubt the most stunning dress she had ever worn. She loved the way it looked, and was thrilled that the Empress was paying for everything. "I think I have some jewelry which would look lovely with this dress. I think we will make quite the couple tonight!"

She hurried to the counter and quickly paid for the dress. Checking her watch, she was shocked at the time. "We better change here, it's only an hour before the opera opens." She quickly asked the clerk if they could change there. They both quickly dressed in their new outfits, and walked out to the limo. "I hope we didn't look to out of place," She giggled. As the limo pulled away from the curb, she grew even more excited at the night that was about to begin.

"Yes, it seems to fit quite well." She looked into the mirror, and turned to see the back. It was without doubt the most stunning dress she had ever worn. She loved the way it looked, and was thrilled that the Empress was paying for everything. "I think I have some jewelry which would look lovely with this dress. I think we will make quite the couple tonight!"

"Yes; that dress fits you well. It makes you look stunning and gorgeous; though you were already stunning and gorgeous without it. Yes; we will make quite the couple tonight; the foreign diplomat and his strikingly attractive counterpart."

She hurried to the counter and quickly paid for the dress. Checking her watch, she was shocked at the time. "We better change here, it's only an hour before the opera opens." She quickly asked the clerk if they could change there. They both quickly dressed in their new outfits, and walked out to the limo. "I hope we didn't look to out of place," She giggled. As the limo pulled away from the curb, she grew even more excited at the night that was about to begin.

Vittorio smiled as he changed into the suit before walking to the limosuine with Eva; he thought that they looked nice together. "I am glad to be attending the opera tonight; we look like your average opera fans attending a performance; dressed in our exquisite clothes. Have you been to the opera before, Miss Langston?"

bump.

OOC: Sorry for the delay, but know that I am always following the thread.

IC: "Yes, I have attended a few performances before, although I wouldn't say I am a fanatic. I appreciate the atmosphere more than anything. The clothing, the people, the beautiful setting, set pieces, and costumes. It's truly a magical experience."

The limousine moved quickly through the city streets, as the opera house slowly came into view. The building was rather large, considered one of the largest in the region. Marble columns dominated the front of the facade, while a large staircase lead to the massive golden doors of the entrance. As twilight was coming, the streetlights began to twinkle as a warm fire-like glow emanated from the front windows of the building.

At the front, ladies dressed in their best finery, along with men in tuxedos and top hats stood and mingled. Various attendants dressed in livery attended to the vehicles, carried trays of refreshments, and helped the spectators find their seats.

As the limousine pulled to the front of the line, the chauffeur quickly went to open the door, and Eva and Vittorio stepped out onto the front of the opera house.

OOC: Sorry for the delay, but know that I am always following the thread.

OOC: I understand.

IC: "Yes, I have attended a few performances before, although I wouldn't say I am a fanatic. I appreciate the atmosphere more than anything. The clothing, the people, the beautiful setting, set pieces, and costumes. It's truly a magical experience."

"It is a good experience, Miss Langston; I am sure many will concur with you. I have attended a few performances myself, you know; they were all gifted with good quality actors, etc. All performances need talented people; or else you will not see a single soul in the audience."

The limousine moved quickly through the city streets, as the opera house slowly came into view. The building was rather large, considered one of the largest in the region. Marble columns dominated the front of the facade, while a large staircase lead to the massive golden doors of the entrance. As twilight was coming, the streetlights began to twinkle as a warm fire-like glow emanated from the front windows of the building.

Vittorio studied the Opera House with his eyes as a small smile crept upon his face; he had seen similar buildings in Neo-Ixania. He would occassionally look at Miss Langston and knew she was beautiful in the dress she chose to wear; yet he restrained his mind from thinking about that as he focused on attending the performance.

At the front, ladies dressed in their best finery, along with men in tuxedos and top hats stood and mingled. Various attendants dressed in livery attended to the vehicles, carried trays of refreshments, and helped the spectators find their seats.

As the limousine pulled to the front of the line, the chauffeur quickly went to open the door, and Eva and Vittorio stepped out onto the front of the opera house.

Vittorio offered Eva his hand (or his arm) with a smile on his face as they walked together to the front door of the opera house; they could see all the people dressed in expensive suits and exquisite dresses. Vittorio and Eva found their seats after several minutes; but Vittorio began to wonder about the Empress; since Eva told him that Mei would make an appearance.

As the coupled alighted the staircase, Eva attempted to point out some of the more important figures at the ball. She quickly spotted a woman out of the corner of her eye. She tapped Vittorio. "That woman over there in the burgundy dress, she is the mayoress of Euphova. She was recently elected, but she seems to be very popular with the people." She turned to her left and spotted an elderly gentleman in a black tux carrying a cane. "That man is Andrew Lucas, one of the wealthiest men in the country. Since the country has been opened to a freer economy, he was able to make billions in the telecommunications market."

As they continued to people watch, Eva wondered when the Empress was too arrive. She expected that she would make a grand entrance as she often did, and she was interested to see how Vittorio would react. "I hope the Empress arrives soon, " she quickly mentioned to Vittorio.

As the coupled alighted the staircase, Eva attempted to point out some of the more important figures at the ball. She quickly spotted a woman out of the corner of her eye. She tapped Vittorio. "That woman over there in the burgundy dress, she is the mayoress of Euphova. She was recently elected, but she seems to be very popular with the people." She turned to her left and spotted an elderly gentleman in a black tux carrying a cane. "That man is Andrew Lucas, one of the wealthiest men in the country. Since the country has been opened to a freer economy, he was able to make billions in the telecommunications market."

"They both look successful, Eva; dressed in the attire of the wealthy. My own family is quite wealthy and we normally generate businessmen, performers and doctors but I was one of the few, perhaps the only member, who became a diplomat; I chose it because I wanted to travel to other nations, I had that desire since I was young. Not only that; but being a diplomat let me see a beautiful woman who offered to take me to the opera."

Vittorio smiled at Eva and continued to walk with her; he truly thought that Eva was beautiful and had no problem telling her that. He, however, made sure he did not say it too much so he would not alienate her.

As they continued to people watch, Eva wondered when the Empress was too arrive. She expected that she would make a grand entrance as she often did, and she was interested to see how Vittorio would react. "I hope the Empress arrives soon, " she quickly mentioned to Vittorio.

"I am sure she will; perhaps she is delayed. I am sure she will arrive in a grand entrance with all the pomp and ceremomy; just like my nation's Empress whenever she goes anywhere. The trappings of royalty follow them both."

Vittorio smiled again at Eva. "Perhaps, one day, you could visit Neo-Ixania and see the Empress; I could also give you a...personal tour of my nation. I hope that we can be friends, Eva; because I see, in you, a goodhearted person."

Just as Eva had spoken to Vittorio, there was a blare of trumpets, as the assemblage was directed towards the entrance once again. A large, gilded carriage, pulled by 4 large horses was approaching the stairs. From what seemed like nowhere, several costume guards had lined up on both sides of a large red carpet which had just been unfurled. As the carriage came to a stop in front of the carpet, the driver quickly dismounted, pulled out a cushioned footstool, and opened the door of the carriage. First, a man stepped out, and moved quickly to the side. While Eva had never seen the man before, she guessed he was her date for the night.

A hand slowly moved out of the carriage, while the man took it, and helped Mei emerge from the carriage. She was wearing a gown of deep blue, with intricate design and flawless stitching. Her hair was done in intricate buns on the top of her head. She had a small tiara on her head, which was accented with flowers on the side. All present quickly bowed and curtsied, and the Empress waved delicately in response. In one hand she held an elaborate fan of peacock feathers. The empress always wished to be the center of attention, and people always took notice.

As she moved slowly up the stairs, photographers stood on the sides, taking pictures as she walked. She posed for some of the photographers, and continued to the central foyer of the opera. Eva realized that this was the best time for them to get a word in with the Empress before she disappeared to the imperial box and the opera began. She nudged Vittorio. "Come, let's go speak with her."

"Just as Eva had spoken to Vittorio, there was a blare of trumpets, as the assemblage was directed towards the entrance once again. A large, gilded carriage, pulled by 4 large horses was approaching the stairs. From what seemed like nowhere, several costume guards had lined up on both sides of a large red carpet which had just been unfurled. As the carriage came to a stop in front of the carpet, the driver quickly dismounted, pulled out a cushioned footstool, and opened the door of the carriage. First, a man stepped out, and moved quickly to the side. While Eva had never seen the man before, she guessed he was her date for the night."

Vittorio smiled as he began to watch the ceremony; it was just like whenever the Empress of Ixania visited a place. As he watched the ceremony, he leaned into Eva. "I guess that man is her date for the night; maybe he is one of her lovers?"

A hand slowly moved out of the carriage, while the man took it, and helped Mei emerge from the carriage. She was wearing a gown of deep blue, with intricate design and flawless stitching. Her hair was done in intricate buns on the top of her head. She had a small tiara on her head, which was accented with flowers on the side. All present quickly bowed and curtsied, and the Empress waved delicately in response. In one hand she held an elaborate fan of peacock feathers. The empress always wished to be the center of attention, and people always took notice.

"Mei....she's just like Anastasia..."

Vittorio thought that Mei looked beautiful but he still was a firm believer in the idea that Eva was more so. He liked her dress; it reminded him of one of the dresses he saw Empress Anastasia in (a picture) when he read a magazine article about her; though he always knew that expensive formal dresses such as Mei's dress were usually worn by the royalty; or at least the wealthy.

As she moved slowly up the stairs, photographers stood on the sides, taking pictures as she walked. She posed for some of the photographers, and continued to the central foyer of the opera. Eva realized that this was the best time for them to get a word in with the Empress before she disappeared to the imperial box and the opera began. She nudged Vittorio. "Come, let's go speak with her."

Vittorio smiled. "Yes, let's go speak with her." Vittorio followed Eva silently; occassionally studying her as if he was comparing her to Mei. When they reached the Imperial Box, Vittorio bowed respectfully and politely greeted Empress Mei. "Your Majesty, it is a pleasure to meet you again."

Vittorio smiled as he began to watch the ceremony; it was just like whenever the Empress of Ixania visited a place. As he watched the ceremony, he leaned into Eva. "I guess that man is her date for the night; maybe he is one of her lovers?"

Eva didn't really know how to answer that question. "There are always rumors that the Empress has had affairs, however, she has always vehemently denied the claims. It is most likely that he is a friend, or possibly a government official, but one can never be sure. Her husband is often away in Damirez."

Vittorio smiled. "Yes, let's go speak with her." Vittorio followed Eva silently; occassionally studying her as if he was comparing her to Mei. When they reached the Imperial Box, Vittorio bowed respectfully and politely greeted Empress Mei. "Your Majesty, it is a pleasure to meet you again."

Mei was glad to see the Ixanian Ambassador again. He seemed to be enjoying himself. She glanced at Eva, whose eyes gave away the fact that she too had enjoyed the day. She turned to address Vittorio. "Likewise, I hope that the rest of your visit has been enjoyable? I would like for you to join me tonight in the Imperial Box. It has the best view and acoustics of any seat in the house."

Eva didn't really know how to answer that question. "There are always rumors that the Empress has had affairs, however, she has always vehemently denied the claims. It is most likely that he is a friend, or possibly a government official, but one can never be sure. Her husband is often away in Damirez."

"It would be saddening to hear if she was actually cheating on her husband; I hope that if I have a wife one day, she'll always be faithful to me, Miss Langston. People in marriages often want that; faithful partners."


Mei was glad to see the Ixanian Ambassador again. He seemed to be enjoying himself. She glanced at Eva, whose eyes gave away the fact that she too had enjoyed the day. She turned to address Vittorio. "Likewise, I hope that the rest of your visit has been enjoyable? I would like for you to join me tonight in the Imperial Box. It has the best view and acoustics of any seat in the house."

"It would be a pleasurable honor to join you in the Imperial Box; but would it be possible for Miss Langston to join us as well? It would not be nice to deprive her of the best view and acoustics tonight."

OOC: Sorry again

IC: "Of course, I wouldn't dream of separating you two. There is plenty of room in the box." She turned to the left to introduce her date for the evening. "This is Vice Defense Minister Pierce, who has graciously agreed to accompany me tonight." She explained the situation quickly, pointing to Vittorio. "This is the ambassador for Neo-Ixania, we are hoping that soon trade shall develop between our two nations."

With that, the group proceeded up the grand staircase, past several groups of Imperial guards, and emerged into the box, placed in the back center of the theatre. The box contained eight seats in total, four in the front for viewing, and rear seats for various guards or servants.

Mei took the ornate, throne like seat in the center, and Eva and Vittorio were told to sit on one side, while the Vice Minister took the other seat. Below them, the other opera goers were slowly finding their seats. The orchestra was beginning to prepare, and the other boxes were slowly being filled. Eva whispered to Vittorio. "Soon the Opera will start, but I think you might be presented first." She winked, remembering that the Empress generally spoke to those attended before the performance began.

OOC: Sorry again

IC: "Of course, I wouldn't dream of separating you two. There is plenty of room in the box." She turned to the left to introduce her date for the evening. "This is Vice Defense Minister Pierce, who has graciously agreed to accompany me tonight." She explained the situation quickly, pointing to Vittorio. "This is the ambassador for Neo-Ixania, we are hoping that soon trade shall develop between our two nations."

OOC: Apology accepted.

"It is nice to meet you, Mr. Pierce. Yes; I am Vittorio Castafiore, the ambassador for Neo-Ixania. I must say that I look forward to seeing the development of trade between our nations. The Empress and her assistant, the lovely Miss Langston, have both been polite and benevolent hosts."

With that, the group proceeded up the grand staircase, past several groups of Imperial guards, and emerged into the box, placed in the back center of the theatre. The box contained eight seats in total, four in the front for viewing, and rear seats for various guards or servants.

Mei took the ornate, throne like seat in the center, and Eva and Vittorio were told to sit on one side, while the Vice Minister took the other seat. Below them, the other opera goers were slowly finding their seats. The orchestra was beginning to prepare, and the other boxes were slowly being filled. Eva whispered to Vittorio. "Soon the Opera will start, but I think you might be presented first." She winked, remembering that the Empress generally spoke to those attended before the performance began.

Vittorio smiled as he took his seat; sitting next to Eva Langston who he would occassionally study with his eyes; as if she were like a book he found. He wondered if Mr. Pierce was actually a lover; but shed the thought from him when he heard Eva whispering in his ear. Leaning into her ear, he whispered a reply. "Thank you for the information. I'll prepare a speech if I will need to say some words to the people."

"It is nice to meet you, Mr. Pierce. Yes; I am Vittorio Castafiore, the ambassador for Neo-Ixania. I must say that I look forward to seeing the development of trade between our nations. The Empress and her assistant, the lovely Miss Langston, have both been polite and benevolent hosts."

"It is very nice to meet you as well. I am always glad to here of our nation making new relations throughout the world. Only through interaction with our fellow nations will true peace and prosperity be realized."

Vittorio smiled as he took his seat; sitting next to Eva Langston who he would occassionally study with his eyes; as if she were like a book he found. He wondered if Mr. Pierce was actually a lover; but shed the thought from him when he heard Eva whispering in his ear. Leaning into her ear, he whispered a reply. "Thank you for the information. I'll prepare a speech if I will need to say some words to the people."

Soon after the last spectators had taken their seat, the house lights rose, and the orchestra ceased their preparations. The conductor pointed toward the Imperial box, and then bowed. The Empress rose, and bowed in return to all assembled. She then began to speak.

"Greetings, citizens of Euphova. Thank you for coming to share this special occasion with me. Tonight, the creative greatness of our country shall be celebrated, a spirit that despite recent hardship, continues to flourish in our nation. Rejoice, for we are a strong people, and we shall soon prosper like never before. Today, I have had the honor of meeting Vittorio Castafiore, a representative of Neo-Ixania. Neo-Ixania shares our wishes for a peaceful and prosperous future, and after today, peaceful trade and exchange shall begin between our two countries. Please, Mr. Castafiore, would you stand, and if you please, say a few words?"

Mei turned, smiled warmly, and began to applaud, encouraging Vittorio to stand. The applause was met with the loud approval of the assembly below. All were ready to here the words of the foreign ambassador.

"It is very nice to meet you as well. I am always glad to here of our nation making new relations throughout the world. Only through interaction with our fellow nations will true peace and prosperity be realized."

"Peace and prosperity comes from hard work and effort but I understand the words you have said, sir. I am glad to hear that our nations will be friends in this world."



Soon after the last spectators had taken their seat, the house lights rose, and the orchestra ceased their preparations. The conductor pointed toward the Imperial box, and then bowed. The Empress rose, and bowed in return to all assembled. She then began to speak.

"Greetings, citizens of Euphova. Thank you for coming to share this special occasion with me. Tonight, the creative greatness of our country shall be celebrated, a spirit that despite recent hardship, continues to flourish in our nation. Rejoice, for we are a strong people, and we shall soon prosper like never before. Today, I have had the honor of meeting Vittorio Castafiore, a representative of Neo-Ixania. Neo-Ixania shares our wishes for a peaceful and prosperous future, and after today, peaceful trade and exchange shall begin between our two countries. Please, Mr. Castafiore, would you stand, and if you please, say a few words?"

Mei turned, smiled warmly, and began to applaud, encouraging Vittorio to stand. The applause was met with the loud approval of the assembly below. All were ready to here the words of the foreign ambassador.

"I must say that I have had a good time here in the Empire of Mephras; being in the presence of the beautiful Empress and her attractive aide, Miss Eva Langston. My hope is that Neo-Ixania and Mephras become good friends and that our friendship is strong and fruitful. With hard work, preserverance and determination; our nations can endure the challenges that may lie in our paths in the future. I have had the pleasurable honor to meet Empress Mei; who has shown me that she is a professional and kind woman and I have had the pleasure to be in Euphova; which is truly a nice city to visit."

Vittorio smiled before he decided to finish his speech. "I congratulate the Empress of Mephras for accepting the establishment of relations between Ixania and Mephras; thank you all for your time."

Vittorio took his seat and smiled at Eva before waiting to hear the response of the assembly of people below him.

The spectators applauded and rose in approval of the words of the Neo-Ixanian diplomat. Many of those in this room had a vested interest in expanded trade in the empire, and any news of peaceful expansion was good for them.

As the crowd calmed, the massive crystal chandelier dimmed, and the first act of the opera began. The orchestra played slowly as a young woman emerged on the stage. Dressed in an elaborate peasant costume she began to sing. Her voice soared, singing about the joys and sorrows of country life. As she moved around the stage, she was soon joined by various other characters. Their voices told of chaos in the country, of war that was tearing the country apart. The orchestra changed from the light airy music of the beginning to a louder, darker tone, reflecting the state of the country.

While Eva focused on the opera for most of the time, her mind wandered, and she often found herself staring at Vittorio. She wondered what he was thinking. The opera was sung in Mephrasian, and although the opera booklet provided translations, she hoped it wasn't too difficult for him to follow. Before Eva knew it, the first act was over, and the first intermission was beginning. As several of the spectators went to chat, Eva turned to Vittorio, and asked, "So, what do you think so far?"

bump for visibility

The spectators applauded and rose in approval of the words of the Neo-Ixanian diplomat. Many of those in this room had a vested interest in expanded trade in the empire, and any news of peaceful expansion was good for them.

Vittorio smiled as he looked down at the cheering crowds below him; he was glad to see and listen to them. As he took his seat, he immediately looked at the stage as the opera began.

As the crowd calmed, the massive crystal chandelier dimmed, and the first act of the opera began. The orchestra played slowly as a young woman emerged on the stage. Dressed in an elaborate peasant costume she began to sing. Her voice soared, singing about the joys and sorrows of country life. As she moved around the stage, she was soon joined by various other characters. Their voices told of chaos in the country, of war that was tearing the country apart. The orchestra changed from the light airy music of the beginning to a louder, darker tone, reflecting the state of the country.

Watching the opera's first act, Vittorio was reminded of similar cultural displays in his own nation. He studied the actors intently, trying to gather as much information as he could about what the first act was about. The singing, he thought, was nice to listen to; truly the actors were professionals. Finally, as the first act began to end, Vittorio listened calmly to the grim and dark tone of voice from the singers; knowing fully the reasons for this change in voice.

While Eva focused on the opera for most of the time, her mind wandered, and she often found herself staring at Vittorio. She wondered what he was thinking. The opera was sung in Mephrasian, and although the opera booklet provided translations, she hoped it wasn't too difficult for him to follow. Before Eva knew it, the first act was over, and the first intermission was beginning. As several of the spectators went to chat, Eva turned to Vittorio, and asked, "So, what do you think so far?"

Vittorio did look at Eva occassionally; studying her and wondering what she was thinking. He did read the translations that he found in the program and was able to follow the opera well. When the intermission began, Vittorio smiled at Eva. "The first act was quite nice; the actors are truly professionals who know how to sing and act. I am sure that they have been doing this for years. Tell me, who was the author of this opera? I'd think that he or she would enjoy watching this."

As the opera goers moved slowly into the lobby, Eva answered Vittorio's question, after a few seconds of thought. "The author of this piece was principally Brandeis Long, who is responsible for the music and most of the lyrics, although I am sure there is a small army of workers behind him who deserve more credit than they will likely receive." Eva, as a grunt within the Foreign Ministry, knew all about how higher ups took credit for things largely done by others. Not wanting to insult her own countries cultural heritage, she explained further. "Not that Long isn't a great artist, I mean he is truly a creative genius. I simply believe that everyone's accomplishments should be recognized."

Luckily, the Empress had drifted off with her date, no doubt chatting with the various higher ups who were present. "I'm sure that the authors and composers are here tonight, although I honestly couldn't point them out if I saw them." She giggled, somewhat embarrassed at her lack of cultural knowledge, and quickly changed the subject. "I was quite impressed by your impromptu speech. You must have a very quick mind and be very eloquent to speak like that. Do you have a large amount of oratory experience?"