NationStates Jolt Archive

David Walters had just endured what had to be one of the longest flights of his life. It wasn't that it was actually long, the private jet actually moved quite quick, he, despite being a diplomat, had never been one for flying. He'd been on planes countless times, both civilian and government and he'd still never gotten used to it. Luckily he'd managed to fend off sickness this time.

His plane slowly touched down on the dark tarmac, bumping along until it finally came to a halt. He had arrived in The House Of Boothby. He'd been sent on behalf of the government of Orbath to be the ambassador, however, his embassy hadn't yet been readied so he'd likely be spending a day or two at a hotel. The reason he was so early was because he had to attend a meeting with a representative from THOB.

He wasn't exactly sure whether he'd be met at the airport or not. He stepped of the plane, the wind blowing his jet black hair. He was dressed in a dark suit, white shirt and a rather odd tie, all quite expensive. He had to look the best when representing his nation. He looked around, waiting to see if someone was there to meet him.

Charles Halsie Clark, the diplomatic advisor to the HOB, waited inside the government fleet car. Charles was an elderly man, nearly 75. He skin had been darkened with age, while the small wisps of hair that remained on his head was a silverly hue. He checked his Royalty pocket watch, looked out the window and tracked the Orbathian plane descend into the Nova Zembella international airport.

Charles adjusted his customary tweed jacket as he stepped out of the vehicle and onto the tarmac. He carried with him a heavy jacket, as he was sure their southern visitor would not be accustomed to the chilling winters of the HOB.

Charles observed as a man with jet black hair and a smart suit stepped down from the hatch and onto the runway. He looked a little lost, and quite cold in his silk suit.

Charles advanced and presented himself with all due hospitality, "Mr. Walters I presume? My name is Charles Clark and on behalf of The House of Boothby I would like to welcome you to our nation."

David Walters extended his hand for a shake,

''Hello Mr. Charles, I'm David Walters, soon to be ambassador to your nation.''

Grasping David Walters hand, Charles smiled as he welcomed the Orbathian ambassador.

"Well met sir, I hope the long flight was not to taxing on you. Please, allow me to offer you this fine Boothian coat, as I am sure the Orbathian winters have not prepared you for our frigid climate."

With that Charles held up the jacket he had carried with him offering to help Walters slip into it.

David hadn't yet become cold but slowly he could feel it biting at him. He decided it was probably best to put on the coat, for himself and also so as not to be rude.

''I've never liked flying but I'll get used to it someday...I hope.''

David step forward, walking and admiring the jacket at the same time. It was well made, much more expensive than even the suit he wore. It was warm too.

David picked up the pace, ensuring it was quick but at the same time he wasn't moving to fast for Charles, who was much older and had much shorter legs.

Chalres smiled knowingly and helped Walters on with the jacket. The coat itself was a kingly gift, being made for the Boothian royal family. It was made from a traditional Boothian red silk, stitched into a quilted pattern, and filled with premier down. Golden buttons adorned the front and cuffs.

"Well, hopefully you will be with us for some time. No more airplanes, eh. Well we shouldn't stay out in his wind to long, if you would care to follow me, there is a car waiting."

Charles turns on his heel, extending his hand in a motion to allow Walters to proceed.

Charles walked alongside his nations new guest and lead him to the black fleet sedan that was waiting for them. A smartly dressed drive stood at the ready and proceeded to open the backdoor proffering the warm lush leather seat to David Walters.

Charles smiled and beckoned Walters to climb in.

"I have been informed that you have secured for yourself a hotel room until your ambassadorial facilities are ready? I must object, as your host and friend, you will please allow me to offer you a suite at the Royal Palace's Guest Quarter?"

David slipped into the waiting vehicle, shifting slightly until he was comfortable. He looked around the vehicle. It was rather elegant but very simple.

''Guest Quarters eh...sounds much better than a stuffy hotel room for the next couple of days. Sure, I'd be honored to stay.''

David noticed the car had begun to move forward and a question lodged into his head.

''If you don't mind me asking, where is it that we are heading?''

"Ah, not 'Guest Quarters', 'Guest Quarter', we have dedicated an entire region of the Royal Palace to the hosting of our foreign friends," Charles explained.

As the car slowly rolled off the tarmac and onto a service road Charles continued in his kindly tone, "Currently we are heading southwest towards the center of Nova Zembella. I shall take you to the Royal Palace, where you am make yourself at home, unpack and rest. If you are not to taxed, perhaps you would care to attend an informal meeting tonight after supper, we would just discuss some economic prospects and considerations between the HOB and Orbath. It would also be an excellent opportunity for me to introduce you to a few of our foreign economists."

''Wow I'm impressed... an entire region.''

David continued to listen as he admired the view from his window.

''Sounds like a great idea to me, I'd love to discuss economic prospects.''

The car rolled on and subsequently entered onto a busy highway. From the back seat the icy seaports of Nova Zembella came into view as the car entered the outskirts of the capitol city. Large building rose up from the coast, their stone spires ornately carved and sculpted by artisans long since gone. The streets bustled, seaports teemed, and people went about their busy ways.

The car wound its way through the business district, gradually giving way the parks and forests of the so called "garden district." In the dead of winter none of the greenery survived, but evergreens and mosses brightened the mood. Large rock gardens and sculptures were elegantly arranged around the mansions and estate houses that lined the road.

The Royal Palace's tower tore into the bluest of winter skies as the car approached the main gate. Passing the gate gave way to more cultivated forests and topiary. The roads were cobble stone now and the architecture of the palace reminded one of far gone times.

Eventually the car came to rest outside a bastion of a building, the Guest Quarter. Charles got out as the driver went around to open Walters door.

"Welcome to your home away from home."

David took in the surroundings as the car snaked through the city streets. It didn't look that impressive now, the large grey buildings seemed to hold in the cold. It probably looked much better in the summer, he thought.

As the car entered the gates, David surveyed the palace. The tower shot up into the sky and the architecture was something not seen in Orbath. It radiated with a rich and royal feel. David was going to enjoy his stay here.

As the driver opened the door and David stepped out he could feel the cold biting at his hands and face, his torso still quite warm wrapped in the expensive coat. He'd have to find a coat like this for himself.

''Thank you Mr. Clark.''

"It is my pleasure Mr. Walters, but please call me Charles."

The old Boothian then proceeded to lead the ambassador up the polished steps and into the building.

Inside gleaming white marble walls lead to a red carpeted floor. Grand oil painting adorned the walls and depicted various Boothian countryside scenes. Charles made his way to an old elevator, whose operator opened the folding metal doors. The three of them filed in and Charles instructed the operator to proceed to the third floor.

Walter's suite of room was comfortable enough. Heated by a large central fireplace, the living room smelt to roasting cedar. A large samovar had been heated and was emitting a spicy aroma. In addition to the living room was a bedroom, bath, and small kitchen. The windows faced outwards, away from the rest of the palace and over a small pine forest to the coast. In the distance crashing waves could be seen pummeling the rocky shore.

"I hope that you will find everything comfortable here. If you need anything do not hesitate to contact the staff," Charles indicated a large cord hanging from the wall that would activate a bell when pulled.

"You should rest and get situated now, but I will send someone to bring you to the upper dinning hall for dinner."

David shook Charles' hand and closed the door. His suitcase had been brought up and he wheeled it over to the closest. He unpacked his various things, admired how grand the room was and pulled out a book, found a nice comfy chair, sat down and read.

OOC: Sorry I know this is closed but I sent Boothby a TG but there was no other way to contact him so Boothby please check yoru TGs.

The sun set that evening and sent a blood red hue over the Nova Zembella river. As the night closed in the temperature plummeted, and the wind began to howl mournfully.

Around 7:30 a gentle knock resounded from Walter's door. The attendant waited outside for the Orbathian guest.

David rose from his chair, lazily tossed the book onto the bed, quickly checked himself over in the mirror before opening the door and following the attendant. Along the way he admired the paintings, most of which were of the countryside.

The attendant lead the way to upper dinning hall. It was situated in an old building which at one time had been the palace chapel. Inside fires laced with sweet sage grass blazed, and long red candles flicked, throwing shadows off the old stone walls. A single, long wooden table stood in the center of the room. It was lined with ancient looking chairs, with elaborate designs carved into their backs.

Charles stood in a small group of men, they all wore traditional tweed suits and several were smoking slim cigarillos. Charles saw David enter with the attendant and removed himself from the group to great their guest.

"Ah, David, I hope you are up to this, not too tired eh?"

He turned and introduced David to the small cluster he had come from.

"Gentlemen, my I introduce Mr. David Walters, Orbath's new ambassadorial appointee to the House of Boothby. Mr. Walters this is Guy Boothby, Baron of the Canton of Bellvue. Peter Boothby, a top International law advisor. And Victor Datsuyk, Chief Economic Advisor."

David took in the surrounding, especially the aroma that now filled his nose. The dining hall was decorated in a rather old fashion manor, just like the rest of the palace David had seen. He wasn't used to this type of architecture but found it rather appealing.

"Ah, David, I hope you are up to this, not too tired eh?''
''I feel great! I'm up to this, I assure you.''

Mr. Walters this is Guy Boothby, Baron of the Canton of Bellvue. Peter Boothby, a top International law advisor. And Victor Datsuyk, Chief Economic Advisor."
''Good evening gentlemen.''
David shook each of their hands and noted that two of men were Boothby's. David wondered whether they were part of the royal family.

The rest of the evening progressed in typical Boothian fashion. The men were seated in order of seniority with Guy Boothby, the uncle of Thomas Christopher Clark Boothby, ruler of the HOB, at the head of the table. A prayer was said after all were seated, followed by a toast to Walters and the new Orbath-Boothian ties. Wines were brought forth and poured into glasses. A simple but hearty meal of borsch, bread, and venison followed.

When the candles had burnt low and some of the older men had started to nod off, Charles leaned in close to Walters.

"What do you say we retire to the Baron's lounge and get to business?"

David had eaten his fill of the delectable meal. He wasn't sure who had prepared his food but he'd love to shake that persons hand. He himself was feeling kind of sleepy but was brought out of his daydream by Charles' question.

''Sounds like a good idea to me.''

The Baron's lounge, as it was so called, was a small sitting room at the back of the upper dinning hall. Admittance to the lounge was restricted to the Baron, Guy Boothby, his guests, and upper staff members.

The room was configured with several large arm chairs centered around a low circular table. The room was windowless, and unlike the dinning hall was lit with electric lamps. At the center of the table was a bowl of poppy heads, a box of cigars, cigarettes, and a table lighter. The walls of the room were lined with a veritable library of bookshelves. A smaller table stood at the back of the room with a healthy selection of spirits upon it.

Charles, Guy, Victor, and their Orbathian guest proceeded into the room.

The Baron turned to Walters indicating for him to take a seat, "Can I offer you something to drink, or smoke perhaps?"

Walters took his seat having examined some of the books on the shelves.

''I do not smoke but I would welcome a strong drink.''

The men were seated and the Baron had each of them a glass of gin. The talk roamed from current affairs to business.

Charles turned to Walters. "Is Orbath aware of our newly installed Arctic oil rigs? We have recently finished a five year long survey of the polar region and have found that it contains more oil then the middle east. Currently we have only a few rigs up and running, but with our positioning in relation to other Barents NOP members it makes use and control of the Arctic not too cumbersome. Perhaps your nation would like to make the initial foreign investment in this industry?

Similarly, we would be interested in what industries Orbath has that you feel would do well in the HOB. What are your major exports and imports?"

''Well actually, a corporation, Orbath Oil has began expanding outwards. They've recently applied for the purchase of drilling rights near a place called the Orange Islands however that place has been jumped all over by imperialists and militaristic corporations. Really I'd be surprised If they actually go through with it. A opportunity to drill alongside you would likely be something they would be interested in.''

David paused and sipped from his gin.

''Our major exports are lumber, iron and automobiles. Our major imports are any food related product really; grains, fruits, vegetables and meats and oil.''

"Yes, if you would like to place oil rigs in the Arctic we would be able to supply you with ice cutters, shipyards, and docks in the HOB from where to launch construction and repair operations. Additional if Orbath Oil wished to establish offices in our nation, we would be open to that.

Likewise, we would be willing to sell HOB drilled oil to Orbath.

When it comes to our agricultural exports, our largest crop is poppies, which we use for medical research and alkaloid production. We also have a large venison industry with large deer farms in the middle region of the HOB."

''Venison is not something that is commonly eaten but I'll contact some people and see if it something they want to bring into the market. As for the oil, that offer is very generous. I'll have Orbath Oil contact you so something can be set up. I'm curious as to your position on military ships protecting the rig. Will we be able to bring in our own ships? Will your ships also be protecting them? What would happen in the event that they were attacked?

David slowed down. He sounded nearly paranoid asking so many questions and he didn't want to overwhelm Charles with a barrage of questions. He'd ask about HOB oil later.

"Currently the Barents are NOP controlled with navies from the HOB, Norsikia, Morgiland, and Stoklomolvi patrolling all northern waters. The Beatus, a former NOP member, is given free roam within our waters. Any civilian trade vessels coming into NOP waters are required to contact us 24 before arrival so that an appropriate NOP escort can be organized.

Specifically to your question. The HOB "Coastal and Maritime Securities" currently has a sizable force guarding all Arctic oil reserves. They would be able to off any safeguarding assistance you could need.

You may bring your own ships of course, however, they will need an ice breaker to escort them through the northern waters.

In the event of an attack, most likely this would trigger an NOP-wide reaction, which of course would have to come down from the CoN."

''Well, our ships would likely have an escort or two and if several ships were going to be in the area, we might employ submarines. Its good to know that we have the assistance of NOP should we run into trouble.''

David found his glass empty. He reached over, grabbed the bottle and poured another.

''How much does HOB sell its oil for?''

Victor Datsyuk spoke as he was privy to the HOB's economic polices,

"The HOB is positioned to sell allies of ours and the NOP oil at the rate of 130 RF's per barrel. This would equate to approximately 65 USD. These prices are contingent on domestic resale and use only. If you wish to use our oil for international resale we request 160 RF's per barrel, with the stipulation that resale is not to an AU member."

''Hmmm.... The rates are less than what we have been paying to some nations I think we may be able to work out a deal regarding the yearly purchase of oil..''

Victor continued offering the bottle once more,

"We can offer you an annual production rate of approximately 500,000,000 annually. Of course as our drill and surveys progress we will be able to expand our export levels."

"Yes I see," Victor responded.

The Baron, Guy Boothby, asked, "What sort of arrangement would Orbath be interested in with regards to drilling rights? It would be possible to offer your nation, five year, ten year, or possibly even a longer lease time on several of our Arctic reserves."

OOC: Gawd time warp

''Ah well should we acquire drilling rights in the north sea as well as several other places, we will only require around half that.''

David took the bottle, and topped off his glass.

[ooc: Bump, please note time warp]

''To be honest I couldn't say, I'd have to speak with economic analysts but it would likely be 10 plus years.''

"Would you please find out?

Additionally, do you believe Orbath would be interested in investment in biomedical research? This is another large industry of our and we have quite a growing alkaloid research initiative with quite a bit of international support."

''I can... but you will have to excuse me for a few moments. Oh and as for your question, biomedical research is a growing field within Orbath and I'm sure partnerships would be in order.''

David got up, excused himself from the room and pulled out a cell phone. After a few minutes of transfers and a brief chat he returned.

''I've been told we would likely need 15 with options for more after that.''

"I am sure that a 15 plus contact could be drawn up to both party's satisfaction. We will have those documents forwarded to you at the embassy. We will also send along information about our biomedical sector.

Perhaps you could supply us with similar information about Orbathian research?"

''This can most certainly be done, though I doubt it is as extensive as yours.''

Clark smiled but the droop of his eyes gave him away, "The hour is growing late and we should let our guest have some rest. If there is nothing more you would like to discuss at the moment then perhaps we can retire for the evening. I will be sure to have the appropriate information sent alone to you."

''This sounds good, I look forward to the morning, good night gentlemen.''

The next morning the following information (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=13517201#post13517201) arrived for the Orbathian ambassador.

David looked it over quickly and sent it back home to be looked over. He was a little bit of an early riser so he decided to stay in bed and read.

A constable from the Guest Quarter's rapped upon David's door. I his hand he had a telegram from Charles Clark inquiring as to whether David had an interest in visiting the site of the new Orbathian embassy.

David opened the door, accepting the telegram which he quickly read over. He quickly jotted a reply and gave it back.

I am most interested in touring the embassy.

The constable accepted the note and placed it in his jacket pocket.

"Can I get you anything sir, breakfast? News paper?"

''Breakfast is all, sir.''

Clark had fetched David some short time later and the two of them had departed in a chauffeured fleet car out of the Royal Palace. They headed back north out of the garden district. Soon the trees and lawns gave way to the cold stone of downtown Nova Zembella. The business district was situated in the southeastern corner of the city and the drive was relatively short.

As the driver entered the business quarter the buildings took on a much more utilitarian demeanor. High rise office buildings dominated the skyline and the streets teemed with men and women in business suits.

The site of the Orbathian embassy was in a quieter corner of the district, on Rue de la Pressiore. The embassy itself was not yet finished and had been cordoned off with chain link fence and hardhat notices. Non-the-less the flag of Orbath had been temporarily mounted on a flagpole near the front of the lot.

As the driver neared the site he pulled to the curb and put the drive in park, exited and opened the door for David. Clark climbed out on the curb side and waited for his guest to depart the vehicle.

David stepped out, admiring the embassy as well as the flag which flapped proudly in the breeze.

''They have done a very impressive job.''

"Yes," replied Clark looking over the lot, "it should not be to much longer until the preliminary move in can occur, perhaps a month.

I hope that this location will be adequate, we purposely put you in a quieter part of the district as there will be living quarters in the embassy.

Is there anything in particular I can show you?"

''Nothing particular I need to see, a general tour would be nice though.''

Clark led David through the chain link fence's gate and they both headed towards the small portable trailer that was serving as a foreman's office. There they got their hardhats and started the tour.

The front of the building would have a business like appearance: high gates, few bushes but no garden, and a large secure door.

The building would be in two parts, the offices and the living quarters.

The office section would be located towards the road, and would consist of a large and small meeting/presentation rooms, an ambassadorial office, and several staff offices. There was also a large lounge and entertaining room for guests and Orbathian citizens.

The living quarters were set behind the offices so that ambassador would have a retreat from his work. The living quarters consisted of a large master bedroom, three guest rooms, large entertaining rooms, dinning hall, gourmet kitchen, and 4 full baths.

The living quarters would led to a back garden, which was a rarity in the business district.

The grounds also housed a small security office and carport.

David was impressed with the architecture, and especially the living quarters. As an ambassador, he'd met with several ambassadors and discussed their living conditions. Apparently, it seemed he had it made.

''I'm rather impressed, my family and I will really enjoy this place.''

"I hope so, when will your lovely family be joining us? Do, you have children, have you made arrangements for their schooling yet?"

''Three children. I've actually meant to ask about schooling, is their anything in the area?''

"Ah, yes I think that they should be very well accommodate. The HOB has public education institutes for grades 'K' through 12 in every major settlement. Additionally public universities exist in each Canton.

However, most citizens opt for private education institutes, which are numerous. Doubtless, Orbath offers full or partial financial aid for your children's' education.

If any of your children are of university age, then most of our institutes are specialized and they may be required to study in another city, or perhaps our southern Canton of Riechenbach. That is if they do not opt to attend university in Orbath."

''I'd like to enroll my two younger boys in private school, my daughter will need to finish her last year of high school. She wants to pursue a career in politics, are there any local universities that offer courses in that field?

"Doubtless she is quite a bright young woman. The public University of Nova Zembella has departments of both political science, as well as diplomacy. However, I would suggest she also look into attending university at College Politick, in Riechenbach. The College Politick is privately operated and considered the premier diplomatic institute in the HOB.

I, myself, actually attended the College Politick and sit on the Board of Directors. I would be more then happy to meet with her to discuss the University and perhaps I can even write a letter of recommendation to the Admissions Committee."

'''I am quite sure she would be delighted to hear that, thank you very much.''

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To: The People's Republic of Orbath
CC: Alexander Lundin
Subject: Perspective Oil Contracts

May I begin by saying that we in the HOB are thoroughly enjoying getting to know your ambassador David Walters, and eagerly await his family's arrival as well as the prospect of more Orbathian citizens visiting our nation.

Mr. Walters has brought it to our attention that Orbath may be interested in leasing drilling and exportation rights within our arctic oil deposits. He has advised us that a contract of fifteen (15) or more years would be the most desirable.

If indeed you have an interest in these prospects please inform me and we may begin the discussing an agreement.

-Sign-
Peter Gutherie Boothby
International Trade Advisor

Official Government Message
To - Peter Gutherie Boothby, International Trade Advisor

We are indeed interested in the above stated contract and are glad to hear that a liking has been taken to our ambassador. I hope this will be one of many steps in strengthening our relations.

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To: The People's Republic of Orbath
CC: Alexander Lundin
Subject: Re:re:Perspective Oil Contracts

Our proposal includes the following points:

For an initial period of fifteen (15) years, with the possibility or renewal or extension, The People's Republic of Orbath shall be granted use of all House of Boothby oil claims and deposits in the Arctic region as well as exportation rights to all natural resources harvested.

The HOB will for this period extend all aid and services within reasonable means to facilitate the establishment of Orbathian oil rigs. These include, use of HOB icebreaking vessels, HOB engineering staff and consultants, as well as access to the New Boothby Arctic Colony facility for housing of Orbathian workers, scientists, and engineers (regrettably at this time the New Boothby facility cannot house family members).

In return for drilling and exportation rights for a minimum of fifteen (15) years, the Orbathian government will be expected to export a minimum quote of 75,000 barrels of oil (First year 35,000).

Additionally, a tax of 5% will be taken on all exported oil.

Furthermore, it will be expected that Orbath scientists and engineers share Orbathian oil and natural gas drilling and survey technology with the HOB.

It will also be expected that Orbathian oil rigs and maritime vessels conform to HOB environmental, safety, and upkeep standards.


Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any questions or concerns about this proposal.

-Sign-
Peter Gutherie Boothby
International Trade Advisor