NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: This will be the coronation ceremony for my President, who has become Count of a purchased fief, as well as the unveiling of the new flag and coat of arms, a military parade by the new colonies defense forces and the commissioning of the first naval ship. I'm looking primarily for NOP and my allies to attend, as well as others who RP as Monarchies of members of royalties. Other than that, if your really interested in attending, by all means, TG me, I'll likely let you in. This is set a few months in the future, to allow those at the NOP conference. including my President, the chance to attend.

Phoenix City, The Noble County of Throppe
Large blue waves crashed against the rocks of the coast, spraying mist into the air. Above, atop the cliffs spread Phoenix City, the second largest city in Throppe and soon to become a major trade hub. Originally named Rockston, the name was changed to reflect what was about to occur, the official birth of a nation from the ashes of violence.

The City had been specially prepared for the event that was to take place. Firstly, an airfield had been constructed at the edge of the city. Secondly, the church at which the ceremonies were to be held were restored, and now well defended. This was a ceremony for the people too, so a select number would be allowed into the building to watch the coronation, only after that had been checked and double checked for weapons. Those that couldn't enter would line the streets, watching from massive t.v.s attached to the buildings. After the coronation, they would be able to watch the military parade as it passed through the streets.

President Andrews had flown into the nation three days prior and done some touring, meeting civilians and meeting with members of the government. He now sat nervously in an office, penning a letter.

Official Government MessageRoyal Communique
To my fellow leaders,
I write to you on this day to request your presence at the coronation ceremonies of myself and the Viscount whom I have appointed to represent me in Throppe. This day will symbolize the birth of a nation, and I hope to see you attend. In addition to my allies and friends, it is my hope that I can strengthen my ties with other members of royalty throughout the globe. In addition to the coronations, I will be raising the new flag and unveiling the new coat of arms. There will also be a military march past, showcasing the new colonial defense forces as well as the commissioning of the County's first naval ship.

For those concerned with security, though it was once a turbulent region I assure you it is no longer. Never the less, members of both the Orbathian military and Throppe military will be providing security. I ask that you do not bring weapons, unless they are for cerimonial purposes. I also ask that you limit your security personnel.

Signed, President James Andrews, President of Orbath, His Excellency, The Count of The Noble County of Throppe


Attendees
His Lord Highness Frederick Norheim, King of The United Royal Provinces of Yanitaria

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/UNDComrade/Yanitaria/OfficialCommunication-1.png

HLH Frederick Norheim will be attending the coronation of his ally and good friend, President Andrews.

Further, His Lord Highness would like to help stock President Andrew's wine cellar, and his plane will be loaded with vintage Yanitarian wine.

However, we must ask if the local airport is large enough to accommodate the Royal An-225?

Royal Communique
The local airport is indeed large enough. President Andrews extends his thanks and looks forward to the prospect of a full wine cellar.

Signed, General Arnold Robertson (Retired), Right Honorable, Viscount of The Noble County of Throppe.

OOC: Bump

The Royal An-225 landed at the airport in Phoenix City. As soon as it was in an appropriate spot, the nose was opened, and the Royal Limo drove out, and parked next to the plane. Behind it were crates upon crates of wine.

(OOC: Glorified bump)

Expecting the wine, several forklifts and a large cooler truck rolled onto the tarmac. The forklifts picked up the crates, one by one and placed them into the back of the truck.

Several SUVs, police cars and IFVs wheeled out onto the tarmac. A man waved from one of the SUVs, encouraging the limo to follow. The vehicles assembled in front and behind the limo, forming a convoy. It was only a short distance to the nearby church, made shorter by the fact that they would not take the street on which the parade would take place on, which was lined with people, but rather another closed off street which lead behind the church, allowing those attending quick access and removal from the public eye. They wouldn't need to show themselves until later, when the march past occurred.

OOC: I'm hoping for you, stok, norsikia, and HOB at the least, but I'd be thrilled if all of NOP attended, though I don't see that happening due to inactivity. Any chance someone from your newly purchased colony could also attend. I thought it might be a good idea to strengthen relations between them, since my colony will eventually primarily govern themselves and be almost entirely separate from Orbath.

OOC: I am still waiting for the approval of the sale to come through. I don't want to start RPing just yet unless the person selling the fiefs said it was okay.

That said, Andrea Norheim is still family of the King, so she will be attending, along with the king's mother (I forgot her title). For RP purposes, they are in the limo.

One note, Mattias is actually very, very young. He wouldn't be much over 18-21, because I made him back before I had thought of the Coup, just as a one bit thing to have a university student for Tristan Prov. As a note, Daniele Norheim is around her 40's or 50's, and Andrea is a little older than Frederick.

Anyways, I really need some sleep. I was playing HoI2, and the next thing I knew it, 5 hours passed.

IC: The limo followed the vehicles down the closed road, and to the back of the church.

The motorcade stopped behind the church. The King would observe a very well kept garden and a small forest on one side. The other side was more grim, a grave yard, but that was to be expected. Had it been night, the place would have had an scary feel to it but in the day, combined with the song of the birds that flew overhead, it was like a tiny utopia. A small brick path lead from the door of the King's limo, through the garden, towards a large, old, wooden door.

The door opened and a man exited. He was dressed in your average business suit and actually looked more like he belonged in a office, not greeting a King. He was a former nobleman in the empire of old, however, despite being a nobleman, he wasn't a very powerful or wealthy one and his attire reflected that. He approached the King and spoke,

''Good afternoon Lord Highness, if would would please follow me, I will take you to your seat, sir.''

The King followed and upon entering through the large door, was lead through a maze of passages until he finally entered, through a curtain into 'the great hall'.

The hall was a massive, ordinately decorated and high ceilinged room. Massive stain glass windows stretched from nearly the floor to the ceiling, allowing just the right amount of light to pour into the room. Blue and purple banners adorned the walls.

Despite the architecture, the most noticeable thing was probably the massive, but appropriately quiet crowd that sat, either on the benches or stood along the back and side walls.

Security was also noticeable, men clad in black uniforms and in the regular uniform of the Orbathian army stood, many between the benches on which the crowd sat, and the chairs which had been put out for guests.

The man who greeted the King motioned towards a chair.

''I'm afraid His Excellency will not be able to speak to you privately before the ceremonies... formalities and all. He wished me to convey his sincere apologies.''

"It's quite alright." King Norheim adjusted his tie, and stared self consciously at his shoes. With out taking his eyes of his shoes, he whispered quietly, "er, exactly where am I suppose to be? Also, I wish to speak to the king about some important military matters.

The entourage of the king consisted of two women, a short little man, a much larger, swarthier man, and four Yanitarian IGF soldiers. Of the group, the little man, was the only smiling one.

He was extremely well dressed, but there was an air of incredible.... insincerity, about him. One could almost say that he looked much like a cartoon character. He stepped up to the king, patted him on the back, and said "Also, I think Nassir had something to say," gesturing to the large Kabo-Afrikan, while purposefully mispronouncing the name. Nassir simply scowled at the little man.

''My apologies Lord Highness, please, sit over there, your security may sit or stand behind you, sir.''

He motioned to a chair, and several in the same row beside it. The chairs were directly beside the long path. (I'm not sure what its called, the row between the benches in a church that people walk in from)

''There will be an opportunity to speak with His Excellency, privately if you wish, after the ceremonies. Actually, if it is urgent, you can ride in his limo to the dockyards when the time comes, though I'm afraid there would only be room for one.''

"I believe Nassir has the most pressing issue. Although it can be too important, since he refuses to tell anyone." Norheim spoke the last sentence with a bit of derision. "If that is okay with you, of course."

The soldiers took a seat in the second row, along with Nassir, while the rest took seats in the front. Only the king stood there to hear the answer.

Edit: That reminds me, mind if I send a spy posing as a journalist to take a picture of your president getting out of the limo with Nassir? Btw, Nassir is one of my higher ranking spies, but it's all part of this plot I have going. I'll explain it as it goes along, and it should be very interesting.

The nobleman was slightly taken aback. It seemed as though there was some hostile tension between the men.

''Whomever requires the greatest attention may ride with His Excellency. The other will have a chance to speak with him at the reception later tonight.''

OOC: Mmmm....clandestine....yeah sounds interesting, be my guest.

"Thank you."

The king sat down in between his mother and cousin, and waited patiently.

OOC: Bump

OOC: Final bump. If I don't hear from NOP or anyone else interested, I'm just going to go on with it.

The morning mist still hung about the Royal Palace in Nova Zembella as Thomas Boothby read over President Andrews invitation. With the recent Orbathian investment in HOB research Boothby was eager to strengthen ties between the two nations more then ever.

He took up his pen and in his spidery hand scripted the following response:

President James Andrews,

I hope that this letter finds you in the best of health and circumstances. Indeed, your coronation can suggest nothing to the contrary. As to your most hospitable invitation, I would be over joyed to attend. You may expect myself and companion Pricilla Clarke to attend the ceremony and celebration.

May I say on a personal note that I am very much looking forward to visiting your nation, as well as having the opertunity to make your acquaintance.

Sincerely,
Thomas Christopher Clark Boothby

To, Thomas Christopher Clark Boothby
I am glad to hear of your attendance, and enthusiasm in attending. I assure you it will be quite the event.

Signed, President James Andrews, President of Orbath, His Excellency, Count of the Noble County of Throppe.

OOC: If you want to forgo the usual plane landing/travel post you can just RP Thomas and Pricilla already seated inside the church.

His Imperial Majesty Emperor Timothy Shives would be most gracious if he was allowed to attend the coronation of President James Andrew. He would like to personal congratulate him on his new title as count of Throppe a most honourable position.The Emperor is ready to travel to Phoenix City to the Coronation. he will be attending the Coronation with his wife Empress Valari Shives and one son Imperial Prince Spencer Shives.

Signed, Imperial Prince Tracy Shives
Minster of Foregin Affairs

To, Imperial Prince Tracy Shives
Minster of Foregin Affairs
I would be delighted to have His Imperial Majesty in attendance as well as his wife and son. I have high hopes that this will lead to strengthened relations between our two nations and hopefully between Throppe and yourself.

OOC: As I said above, you can just skip the plane/travel post and RP your characters laready seated.

OOC: all right

His Imperial Majesty Timothy Shives arrived in the church. His wife was standing to right of him and his son to left. He also had 10 Imperial guard members accompanying him. He was glad to be here it was a beautiful country the county of Throppe. He was also wanting to strengthen the relations between Orbath and Angaor. He looked around the church and notice its beauty and the distinct Throppe archiecture. He finally approached somebody who looked like security and asked them were they would them.

"Excuse me Im His Imperial Majesty Emperor Timothy Shives". "Were would you like us to sit sir". said Emperor Shives

The man approached was an extremely muscular and fit man, though this was concealed by the jet black combat uniform and light body armor he donned. His face was veiled by a black balaclava, head covered by a black helmet. Emperor Shives asked the question and the man immediately came to attention, moving his two feet together, toes pointed outwards and placing his rifle, by the butt, vertically alongside him on his right side. He'd been briefed before the arrival of the guests on how to properly address each one.

''Yes Your Imperial Majesty, please take a seat on those chairs ahead, your wife and son may sit beside you and your security detail behind you, sir.''

The man remained at the position of attention until the Emperor turned away, likely to take his seat and then he relaxed, resuming his duties, monitoring the church for suspicious activities.

OOC: HOB, I hope you don't mind if I just go ahead and assume your character is already seated. If you do, let me know and I'll delete this post. If anyone else is still interested, make an informal OOC post or TG me and let me know and I'll probably ok you to join.

A hushed buzz emitted from the crowd seated behind the guests. They were becoming rapidly excited. The whole atmosphere reeked with excitement but also a sense of the unknown. For the people, all of this was new. A new leader, someone other than their beloved Emperor, a new nation and a new way of life. Orbathian analysts were actually quite shocked. They had expected some kind of resistance, someone who opposed their government. They found none. The people were content, or so it seemed, to be ruled by a Count and not have a democratically elected government. This was probably in part due to the fact that they had lived this life for many years and also in part due to what Orbath had done for them. They had been provided with protection, food and industry. No longer did the people starve or go unemployed.

Outside, the crowds that lined the streets erupted in cheers, signaling the arrival of President Andrews and Former General Robertson as well as the soon to be elected Barons.

As the President and the others entered, and eerie hush came over the church. Not a soul spoke, suspended in time. Classical music began playing and the President and others began walking up the aisle. At the front of church, several persons appeared from behind curtains, namely the Archbishop of Throppe. Although the President wasn't a religious man, coronation was often a religious event and the President felt in necessary to cater to a predominantly Catholic populace.

Upon the arrival at the front of the church, swooping past the guests, the barons and the General were seated on chairs which faced the crowd. Although a throne was often used in coronations, it would not be used in this coronation. Instead, Andrews stood, facing the crowd.

The Archbishop then spoke, his voice enhanced by a microphone attached to his robes somewhere.

''Will you solemnly swear to govern the peoples of The Noble County of Throppe according to the constitution.''

The President responded, his voice too enhanced by a microphone.

''I swear.''

The Archbishop continued.

''Will you solemnly swear to govern any colonies or territories that may come under the government of The Noble County of Throppe in the future.''

The President responded again.

''I swear.''

''Do you promise to uphold the traditions of the Catholic church of the Noble County of Throppe.''

The President responded one final time.

''All this I promise to do, the things of which I have promised I shall do, so help me god.''

Having now sworn the oath, the President was to be presented with the crown jewels. The Archbishop removed a cloth from a table, revealing several glass cases. Inside the cases were the various jewels to be presented. Other bishops came forward, each grabbing something from the cases.

First was the royal robe, though not technically a crown jewel. It was long and purple, with a gold trim. It sparkled in the sunlight which came in through the stain glass windows.

Next came a sword, which the President unsheathed and admired. It was made of high quality steel which sparkled like the robe in the sunlight. The hilt was a cross which bore intricate designs. Adorning it were white diamonds and blue sapphires. It was the sword of Aldershire, where the legend goes that in the middle ages, during a revolution, a lone knight protected the church from hundreds of approaching revolutionaries. Though suffering from massive wounds and fatigue, he prevented the revolutionaries from gaining access long enough until the military arrived. Upon arrival of the military, it is said that he refused help until the revolution ended. He later died upon the steps. His body was buried in the front courtyard of the church and has never been moved.

The President sheathed the sword, attaching to his side. The Archbishop approached, bearing the crown and he kneeled, allowing the archbishop to place the crown upon his head.

He looked out towards the crowd, head held high and they began to clap and cheer. Once that died down, the Archbishop spoke to the President.

''I Archbishop of Phoenix and my Bishops will be faithful and true, and faith and truth will bear unto you, our Sovereign Lord Count of this land and defender of the people, and unto your heirs and successors according to law. So help me God."

The President then stepped behind a podium to another eruption of cheers. He spoke, his voice echoing throughout the church.

''It is a great honor to officially and legally become your sovereign ruler. All the promises I have made I intend to keep. It is my goal to ensure the protection and prosperity of the people here, much as I have done for my people in Orbath. I cannot do this on my own, so it is with great honor that I present my representative in Throppe, Arnold Robertson, The Viscount of the Noble County of Throppe.''

Robertson got out of his chair and approached the podium to another eruption of cheers. The Archbishop approached and spoke.

''Do you solemnly swear to uphold the rulings and laws as put forth by James Andrews, The Count of the Noble County of Throppe, so help you god.''

Robertson responded.

''I swear.''

The Archbishop then placed a coronet upon his head to an eruption of cheers and clapping.

The President moved, allowing Robertson a turn at the podium.

''When first assigned to come here, I thought the worst. I served in a place called Cripistan. I as well as the nation of Orbath poured out heart and souls into the nation. My soldiers saw the horrors of war. Despite our efforts, the populace rejected us. I believed the same would occur here. I feel so much at home here, among a populace which respects and admires me and I intend to ensure this continues. However, I too cannot do this alone. Therefore I present the Barons of Throppe.''

Several men who had been seated beside Robertson arose, making their way over to stand beside the podium. The Archbishop spoke.

''Do you solemnly swear to uphold the rulings and laws as put forth by James Andrews, The Count of the Noble County of Throppe and Arnold Robertson, Viscount of the Noble County of Throppe so help you god.''

Each Baron responded

''I swear.''

The Archbishop along with the other Bishops placed a coronet upon each of their heads. The church erupted in cheers one final time.

The President then took to the podium once again.

''I am now pleased to present the Coat of Arms of the Noble County of Throppe.''

With that a women who had been standing far behind the podium against the back wall of the church pulled a large purple banner from the wall, revealing the coat of arms for all to see.

Coat of Arms (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff216/PhotoOrbath/coatofarms.png)

The colors represented the two nations, blue for Orbath and purple for Throppe. The Maltese crosses represented the protection Orbath provided and the hammers represented the people and the growing industry. The eagles and the cross at the top of the crown represented the County's primary religion, Catholicism.

The President spoke again.

''It is with great honor that I now present to you the defense forces of the Noble County of Throppe. My people, would you please exit onto the streets, you will be directed by the members of security. My guests shall remain until both the church and steps have been cleared. We will the watch from the steps.''

With that order given, the people began to slowly flood outside. The President, Viscount and Barons now relaxed, able to speak with the guests briefly, before they were required to go outside for the march past and presentation of the national flag and military colors.

Emperor Timothy Shives and family got up and walked outside after seening the Count James Andrews walk out. He walked up to him and said

"I would to congratulate on this new admirable position", "and this a beautiful country and we know that you will be a just ruler" 'Also we may be interested in tour of the country sometimes".

Andrews was pleased both to hear congratulations and the fact that someone was interested in touring the country.

''Thank you for your congratulations, I'm sure we can work out a date for a tour.''

Boothby and Pricilla had been seated in the great hall of the church and had watched as Andrews approached the Archbishop. The hereditary ruler of the House of Boothby wore a form suit, forgoing the usual HOB ceremonial garb, as he had little desire to detract from the pomp and splendor of the coronation.

Pricilla was seated to his right. After the ceremony had gotten underway she leaned in close and whispered into Boothby's ear, "They hold their religion and their God quite highly, no?"

Boothby considered this statement for a moment and could not help but smile. She was alluding to the current religious problem within the HOB. Boothby himself, like his fathers before him, was a religious man. He leaned in and replied, "All good leaders will hold their country's religion in the highest of regards..."

A light smile crossed Pricilla's visage, and they watched the rest of the ceremony in silence.

When the ceremony was over, Boothby led his companion through the throng to Andrews.

"Lord Count Andrews, may I introduce myself, Thomas Christopher Clark Boothby, as well as my guest, Pricilla Clark. And may I congratulate you on your accomplishment."

Norheim waited patiently behind Boothby in order to congratulate his fellow leader.

OOC: Just wanted to make sure you knew I hadn't forgotten this.

ooc: Is this taking place before or after the Europa Summit?

OOC: a few months after.

"Lord Count Andrews, may I introduce myself, Thomas Christopher Clark Boothby, as well as my guest, Pricilla Clark. And may I congratulate you on your accomplishment."

''It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance and have you in attendance at this monumental day,'' Andrews replied, shaking the man's hand.

''Thank you for your congratulations.''

He stepped to the side, so Norheim could see him, motioning him to walk and talk. It wasn't a huge rush, however, he was never a person who liked being late and the parade was on a schedule. They walked down the aisle, pushing aside large oak doors and were blasted by a warm sunlight and a slight breeze. Suddenly the crowds erupted in cheers. Those on the steps would be able to see that lining both sides of the street (except a certain area around the steps which was populated by security), were thousands and thousands of people, many donning something purple or white, both official colors of the country.

Nassir followed Norheim and Andrews to the car, as Norheim spoke.

"I am glad to see that the people of Throppe welcome your rule. Congratulations." As he spoke, Nassir noticed that his king had an odd voice, one that expressed emotion with out changing pitch. He made a note of this.

The king continued, "As I have said to that noble, Nassir has something he needs to talk to you about, but he isn't telling what it is.You have no need to worry, as Nassir is a trustworthy man." The king smiled, "Also, I'd like to talk to you after the parade."

Boothby watched as the three departed and tried to hear what was said through the throng. As he strained to focus a light touch on his arm broke him away. It was Pricilla, she was smiling up at him, he smiled back.

"We should make our way to the parade route, no?" She asked.

"Yes my darling," Boothby replied as he affixed a purple and white Maltese cross to his lapel.

The two made their way out of the church and into the street.

Those that wished could certainly walk, the parade route was only a few blocks away. However, those that didn't want to walk could climb into the fancy black limos that began pulling up, one behind each other, in front of the church. Each bore the flags of one of the attending nations.

Andrews sought out his limo and motioned for Nassir to climb into the limo. Once inside, it lurched forward, riding smoothly down the recently paved street.

"Sir, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Nassir (ooc: no surname), and I work with my nations ministry of intelligence. First of all, I'd like to thank you for taking with me. So, I understand your nation might be interested in procuring the Da-34 'Constellation'. What if I told you that Yanitaria would subsidize your purchase? I know they are quite expensive."

''Wow, sir, what an offer. We have actually been eyeing these aircraft, however, due to our current colony, we've put much of our defense budget into that. Of course, we get quite the discount already, but to have them paid for, that is something.''

"Indeed. Say that I could allocate funds to have every plane your nation, or your colony needs, with out cost to your country. The thing is-" Nassir paused, and adjusted his glasses, "we have identified a few undesirables in Throppe, and it would be in the best interest of Wittenshcau if they were to 'dissapear'. You won't even notice the disappearances, I just ask that you don't investigate too far into this. In return, Daedalus AAC and the URPY will ensure that the military of your nation and your colony never wants for strategic bombers."

OOC: Nassir is lying about the undesirables. They are random middle class men, around ages 25-30. That's all I'll say, unless you want me to tell you the entire story oocly.

OOC: I'm guessing you want me to go along with this, which I have no problem doing. If you want to tell me your plans OOCly, that would be cool, if you wish to keep them a secret, I won't pry.

Andrews was normally a moral wrong. This violated his ideals in so many different ways. The person he was talking to also seemed a little on the shady side. On the other hand it made sense. He knew some of the other fiefs still had issues with rebels and anarchists. It was entirely possible that some had escaped into Throppe or other fiefs. It was probably within his best interests to accept.

''This is hard for me to accept, and to do so I need your assurance that if this operation is ever uncovered, I can blame it on you. If people start asking, this was your doing, not mine.''

OOC: I wouldn't mind if you said no. The story goes that the Capitalist Underground, my major crime syndacate, is starting to break away from the government as a front, which it was under Baudoin. They are kid napping people to use in drug experiments, and will likely sell their body parts on the black market when they are done.

Nassir is one of the good guys though, he's a double agent. That's all that's set in stone so far.

"I assure you, that if this plot is uncovered, both of are are very safe. But yes, until my cover comes out, you can blame me."

Andrews turned his gaze, peering through the limos tinted windows into a sea of faces. Faces whom would illegally disappear into thin air. He couldn't condone it, he simply couldn't.

''I'm sorry sir, this is something I cannot do.''

The vehicle lurched to a stop in front of the dais.

"I cannot speak for Yanitaria, but they will dissapear, one way or another. It may be a series of car crashes, it may be an unfortunate fire, but these people are nothing more than terrorists. They will be taken care of, one way or another. However, car crashes and fires may injure innocent people. Why would you risk their lives for a handful of terrorists?

"Further, since they will disappear either way, you might as well take the offer. I asure you, no one will ever find out."


OOC: Sorry for any spelling mistakes, it is 1pm here, and I woke up at 9pm yesterday, after getting a total of 4 hours of sleep. Also, the school computer doesn't have spell check.

''I am sorry, it is something I cannot allow. I would be fully willing to assist your intelligence services in the investigation, arrest, capture and then trial. Furthermore, the borders are currently locked down, nobody wants to leave anyway.''

The limo driver came and opened Andrews' door while a OSF (Orbathian Special Forces) soldiers opened Nassir's

They had both been brought to a large platform which occupied what was once a section of sidewalk. Already several men in military uniforms and fancy suits stood, which included Robertson and the Barons. Civilians were kept back 100 meters from the dais but lined the sides of the streets, waiting anxiously for the parade to begin. Beside the dais, a large military band made up of both Orbathian and Throppe soldiers waited.

"Thank you for your time, sir." Nassir stepped out of the car, and as soon as his back was turned, scowled. For a second he though he saw a tourist taking his picture, but if someone had, they were gone.

OOC: Where are the Boothbian and Yanitarian guests now?

Boothby and Pricilla had made their way through the streets following the stream of cars. They preferred to stretch their legs after sitting through the ceremony. As they neared the dais and the crowd that had gathered, Boothby glanced over his shoulder and met the eyes of the HOB chief of security. The man held Boothby's gaze a moment longer then normal and then continued on as if nothing had happened.

Boothby and Pricilla took a position some 150 yards in front of the dais and watched the Orbathian procession.

OOC: Standing on and around a raised dais in front of a park, on a street which leads to the pier where the ships are to be commissioned.

In the distance, the sound of a drum could be heard, the thud echoing between buildings for every left step. As the parade approached, the unmistakable sound of footsteps, all in perfect unison could be heard.

Thousands of soldiers dressed in full ceremonial dress uniform, golden button and parade boot shining, creases perfect and uniforms free from wrinkles, lint or even a speck of dust.

Leading the parade was a flag party made up of five soldiers, two Throps bearing empty flag poles and one Orbathian bearing the flag of Orbath. Behind them marched one Throp and one Orbathian each carrying a Yanitarian made AY-143 assault rifle. Most would think the escorts were just for show, the reality was, by Orbathian and now also Throp military law, anyone who attempted to disfigure or steal the flag while on parade could legally be executed. Orbathians took their drill and ceremonies very seriously.

Behind the flag party marched the highest ranking General of the colonial defense forces, General Bane and behind him, the second in command. Behind them, the 1st Regiments C.O. and then 1st Regiment and so on. As they approached the dais, General Bane called out,

''In succession by Regiment...Halt!''

Behind him, the 1st Regiment C.O. called,

''1st Regiment...Halt!''

With that, the flag party, General Bane, the second in command and all of 1st Regiment came to a halt, left heels stomping the ground in perfect uniform. Behind them, each individual unit began halting.

Somewhere in the distance, a voice boomed over speakers.

''May I present, the Colonial Defense Forces of Throppe.''

The crowds which lined the streets began cheering until the voice began,

''His Excellency will now present the Royal Flag of Throppe and the Royal Colonial Defense Forces Military Flag. He will the proclaim The Colonial Defense Forces to be The Royal Defense Forces. I ask all those in attendance to please stand.''

General Bane called,

''Parade, Present...Arms!''

The national anthem began playing. At its finish, General Bane called,

''Parade, Atten...tion.!''

''Royal Salute, Present...Arms!''

Another fluttery classical tune began playing as each soldier brought his rifle to the position of present arms, Bane and other commanders saluting. Andrews returned the salute, holding it until the music quit playing.

''Atten...tion.''

General Robertson and another officer then marched down off the dais and into the street, each bearing a flag. They marched over, each attaching the respective flags to the two empty poles. As they did this, two Mi-24 Hind helicopters trailing purple and white smoke roared overhead, just high enough that the rotor wash wouldn't send anything, such as hats flying.

As Robertson and the other man marched back, Andrews began to speak.

''As Count of The Noble County of Throppe, the Colonial Defense Forces are now to be known as The Royal Colonial Defense Forces of Throppe.''

Two MIG-31 aircraft then shot overhead, also trailing purple and white smoke.

The announcers' voice boomed once again over the loud speakers.

''The units will now continue their march past, heading for the docks. It is asked that you please remain standing and where you are until directed by a security agent. Guests, if you would please remain until the parade has gone by, you may then travel down to the docks either on foot, or by one of the designated limos which will arrive shortly.''

As soon as the announcer finished speaking, General Bane boomed,

''By the center, quick...march!''

With that, the men began marching, flags waving in a very gentle sea breeze. It was a proud day for everyone. First came units of the infantry, followed by several T-72 tanks and Yanitarian made HMAV-20 following them came the militaristic like police. As their respective units passed the dais, their unit commander would call eyes right, and each soldier would snap their heads to the side, commanders saluting. The parade was very well executed for a group of soldiers who had been rapidly trained.

Behind the units, limos began pulling up to take guests to the docks for the commissioning of the naval ships. Following this would be dinner and a reception.

OOC:
Here are the two flags I've made,

National Flag (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff216/PhotoOrbath/FlagoftheNobleCountyofThroppe.png)

Military Flag (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff216/PhotoOrbath/militaryflagofthecolonialdefensefor.png)

Oh and the RCDF (Royal Colonial Defense Forces) uniform (http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff216/PhotoOrbath/UniformofTheColonialDefenseForces.png).

OOC: Bump

OOC: I'll post when I get home, but I will be late, I am going to sign up for driving school today.

King Norheim clapped with the crowed as the Orbathian troops conducted their flawless parade maneuvers. When the limos pulled up, he and his entourage climbed into one.

"It was very impressive," chirped Andrea.

"Oui, I liked it. What do you think?" Daniele asked of the guards.

They nodded their general approval. As the limo pulled up to the docks, Nassir opened the door for the king. The Prime Minister asked him, "So what of your business?"

Nassir simply nodded, "A partial failure, but I believe the ministry can influence them more." Nassir was of course lying. He had a plan, but the ministry would never know of it.

OOC: Because of my recent and continuing inactivity, I'm just going to wrap this up.

The parade marched down the road, through the streets and finally turning onto the road which crossed it. The vehicles continued straight, while the soldiers continued marching down to the empty parking lot.

The usual commands were called as the troops formed up into companies.

Limousines which held Andrews, Robertson and the other Barons as well as foriegn diplomats took a different route, leading them through the military service gate and down a pier, nearly to the end. Situated on a pier was a stage, a very high stage which was level with a patrol boat which was tied to the dock.

In a short ceremony, a bottle of wine, Yanitarian to be exact was broken on the bow. As the ship pulled out of port, and into a slowly setting sun, an Orbathian battleship placed just over the horizon lobbed shells into the air. These shells had been specially made and designed for the best explosion with the least amount of shrapnel. Not that it mattered anyway, they exploded too far out too sea to do any damage.

Following that, dinner and a reception. The guests were then escorted by a cerimonial guard to the airport.

"Well that sure was fun, ma, we arght to do it again some time."

FIN!