NationStates Jolt Archive

Part of the start of the new term of the Parliament was the Opening Ceremony, an ancient ritual adapted for modern use by the States-Federation and augmented by the election of a Chancellor at the same time as the parliament. The incoming Chancellor was expected to hold a formal reception the night before the ceremony itself, at which he would make formal speeches and engage in ritual. Chancellery House, the official residence of the executive, would be jammed with notables politicians, and other luminaries of Snefaldian society.

The prospect of exchanging small talk with effete nobles, bearded priests, and self-centered politicians was not a pleasant was for Ren Dirh, recently elected Lord Chancellor, and he adjusted his dulband once more in the mirror, aligning the beads and jewels for the sixth time.

"This damn party is going to be the worst night of my life." he swore loudly. Mál, his lover and constant companion, laughed as he adjusted his silk robes.

"You're letting this politics business get to you again, Mr. Lord High Chancellor. It's going to be fine. Just observe the niceties."

"It's easy for you to be easygoing. At least Holbrook isn't a complete bore to talk to; he's the first Arsathae I know that never blathers on about the "faith" and the motions."

"Isn't Ano Mugallu coming too, did his wife convince him?"

"She did. I feel sorry for him, all he wants is to relax and stay out of the light. He almost had a stroke when I told him the Chamber was giving him a title."

Mál shook his head, giving his companion a kiss on the forehead. "It will be fine. You can at least avoid the foreign diplomats because you don't speak their language."

Adjusting a fold of silk with a brooch, the Chancellor laughed. "That's true. And if the Kennyite ambassador is here, I think it'll be much more amusing."

OOC: If you have, or would like to, diplomats/ambassadors/consuls/friends in Snefaldia, this is for you. It's an open reception given at the Chancellor's state residence, with the most important Ministers, Regents, and Deputies of government in attendance, as well as national figures, religious leaders, and eminent people. If I've RPed with them, chances are they're here.

Feel free to post!

ooc: If we haven't rped before, can we still say someone from our country is here?

OOC: Sure, we'll say it's a special consul or prospective ambassador; you can coincide with a letter to the Foreign Minister. The link is in my signature.

IC:

Chancellery House was bedecked and bustling with attendants, servants, and trays of hors d'oeuvres. Dirh and Mál descended the stairs, to be greeted by the perpetual smirk of Jan Smyczek, the grey-haired droopy-eyes Foreign Minister, who looked thoroughly out of place in his signature black western-style business suit.

"I hate dressing up." he announced, brushing his lapel and inserting a white carnation into the buttonhole.

"We're glad you made the effort." Dirh replied with a smile. "You're here, which means Annie isn't far behind. Admiral Ta'us is supposed to be here as well."

The Foreign Minister waved his hand dismissively. "Everyone will be here. This shindig officially starts in a few, and the place will look like Thiestilm at floodtime."

Mál laughed this time. "You mean self-important people up to their necks in water? That's worth seeing."

* * *

The House was officially open for the reception, and the first notables were arriving. Cars were illegal in the city limits of Sargedain, and so an array of horses and carriages were coming around the bend, with a suitable army of cleaners and attendants to make sure everything was perfect. At the large double-doors the Chancellor's Seneschal, who was responsible for the management of the house, had stationed the servant responsible for announcing the entrance of the guests in their official titles. As the first guest entered, he called out.

"His Excellency the Lord High Chancellor the Count of Pitassa Anzapahhadu Mugallu, Royal Knight of Aerion, Loremaster of Aatem Nal in the Ninth Grade; and his wife the Lady Countess Cebrine."

The mustachioed former Chancellor cringed at the recitation of his long title, his wife squeezing his hand for reassurance. They both entered, servants and government officials bowing and nodding in appropriate respect. Dirh and Mál both gave a bow, and the new Chancellor extended his hand to the old.

"I'm sorry about the bluster." he said apologetically. The former Chancellor was an old friend; the two had become even closed during the crisis of September. The elder statesman waved his hand.

"I'll get used to it. A few months and everyone will forget about me. I'll have my time to myself and my farming."

Mál waved over an attendant. "How about a drink. Countess?"

"A glass of riesling. And please, Cebrine is quite alright."

"Of course."

The former Chancellor exchanged the same pleasantries with the new Foreign Minister; under Mugallu he had been ambassador to Kelssek and one of the brightest of the diplomatic corps.

"His Excellency the Lord Provost of Deputies Márkës Vinsëłmø-Ŕymè."

Dirh excused himself and walked to shake the hand of his erstwhile opponent in the election, a man whom he had given the position of leadership over the Assembly of Deputies.

"Ren, my pleasure."

"It's mine, Marko. How are you doing?"

"Of course, the usual. The Nationalists are already pushing the Republicans, the Progressives are whining about this or that. They're looking forward to Friday's interrogation." he chuckled, referring to the day the Chancellor appeared before the Assembly to answer questions and defend policy positions.

"I'll be ready for them. Please, have a drink- Ano just arrived, and we're expecting Annie any minute."

So began the long night.

Princess Airgiarn of Koko Nor and her elderly assistant Vasili Kozminsky of Turgov alight from the Princesses gorgeous and elaborate Troika before Chacellery House. The Princess is dressed in petrol grey Tatung silk robes, long strings of black peacock pearls and glistening Jet hair ornaments which support the compact but still elaborate style of the Jehol Princesses dressed for her by her personal hairstylist. All about her floats the fragrance of Malabathrum and lotus flower.

The princesses young life has been spent moving from one elaborate and formal event or ceremony to the next. Two years ago she had endured the three months of celebrations on her being elected Crown Princess which meant having to be in near constant contact with her odious lackey of a father the reigning prince of Koko Nor. Oh how she preyed that he would shuffle off this mortal coil and make way for her new broom.

Staff usher the princess and Vasili into Chancellery House which is beautifully bedecked for festivity. The Snefaldians have excellent taste the Princess notices. Vasili, a Russian, accompanies her everywhere when she is abroad since like most European Urgenchis he can speak loudly enough to make her words intelligible at the always load social affairs of non-Urgenchis.

Vasili is tense and alert he worries for Airgiarn, she is headstrong ( like most Urgenchi women ) and has as yet not secured the favour of any faction in the Divan. He thinks her posting to Snefaldia is premature. He chafes as usual in his stiff black, tight fitting tunic and black hose. he fingers the enormous diamond pin on his collar.

Large double doors are opened before them and a Seneschal announces their arrival-

"Her Imperial Highness, Princess Airgiarn Arghunib, Crown Princess of Koko Nor, Ambassador of Urgench, and Mr. Vasili Kozminsky of Turgov"

" Fetch me a glass of anything which looks like Champagne will you Vasili ? " Airgiarn whispers to Vasili who bows and dutifully walks toward the nearest person carrying a tray and fetches two drinks for himself and the Princess.

They sip on their drinks and take in the sights and sounds of the crowd.....

The arrival of the Urgenchi diplomats caught the eye of the Foreign Minister, who was just then chatting with the elderly patriarch of the Niuhuru clan, Imperial Prince Sibeoci. Though the clan, once the ruling house of the Empire of Bae, has no official powers in the regional government of Bae their fortune is still vast and the political clout wielded by Sibeoci's family, the Ambalinggū line, is still quite sizeable. Although Smyczek generally disliked pandering and chatting with the numerous wealthy aristocrats and special interests, he enjoyed the conversations he had with Prince Sibeoci; the old man was quite smart and rather amusing when he had to be.

Moving with the Prince to the newcomers, Smyczek gives a short bow. He had met the Princess when she arrived in Snefaldia and had welcomed her at the Urgenchi embassy, but he hadn't met Vasili. At least, not personally.

"Good evening, Ambassador. It's a pleasure to see you again. May I introduce His Excellency Niuhuru, the Imperial Prince Ambalinggū Sibeoci, of Bae."

The elderly aristocrat, wearing the traditional gold and red robes of his Imperial lineage, heavily embroidered and inlaid, nodded his head.

"The acquaintance of another royal is a great asset." he said with a smile. "Minister Smyczek tells me you are just arrived in the country? How do you find this metropolis of Sargedain? I much prefer the quiet stateliness of my own home in Bae to the bustle of the city; although the lack of cars is very nice. You don't get the sound of automobiles everywhere, and the people are kept employed in beautifying the city."

He exaggerated; his "quiet home" in Bae was the Palace of the Golden Peacock, the largest single palace complex in Snefaldia, former residence of the Emperor of Bae and still owned by the Imperial line. Smyczek gave a small chuckle at the line "beautifying the city;" the Prince was referring to the armies of streetcleaners who cleaned up the horseshit ever day.

"It's Mr. Kozminsky, isn't it?" he said, turning to the Russian attendant. "I don't believe we've been introduce- Jan Smyczek, First Foreign Minister."

Airgiarn bows her head in politeness and striains to speak as loudly as she can.

" Your Excellency Niuhuru it is a pleasure to meet such a representative of the glory of Bae, Minister Smyczek the welcome of Snefaldia is rightly famed. " the princess smiles sincerely.

" Your Excellency Niuhuru you must visit Urgench royals outnumber the poor! " she laughs " I find Sargedain very charming, Koko Nor is so dreadfully isolated that trips to the big cities of the empire were enchanting to me as a child. The magic has never faded. Besides Sargedain is so neat compared to Urgench and considerably milder at this time of year. I am told your home is a national marvel your Excellency, and I am particularly fascinated by reports of large parks and gardens, do you hunt ? "

Vasili Kozminsky meanwhile addressed himself to Minister Smyczek

" Indeed your excellency, I arrived some hours ago. Business with the Divan kept me in Urgench and unfortunately I was unable to meet you with the Princess. There is much excitement and fuss in Urgench since the Grand Chancellor returned from Uzgen with a new programme for Government, miraculously healed of whatever mysterious ailment took him there in the first place. Her Imperial Highness would like to offer her congratulations to the new Chancellor later if it is convenient, naturally she understands how busy he will be this evening. We were wondering also when it might prove convenient for the government of Snefaldia to receive the traditional gifts of the Emperor ? It's such a .... quaint custom i know but proper form requires it of us, you can shove all the finery and antiquities in a museum of ethnography if you like, that's unless it would be acceptable for the Chancellor and other high Ministers of state to accept the gifts personally. They mean nothing of course and are purely an ancient way of expressing good feeling e.t.c. and should not be construed in any other light. "

Kozminsky was anxious to make sure the details were worked out properly to insure his mistress would appear in the best possible light at court. His thick Russian accent and no nonsense manner had provided a necessary shield to Airgiarn and would doubtless continue to do so. Kozminsky had heard good things about Smyczek and felt sure he could work with him.....

The elder prince nodded politely, brightening at the mention of the Palace of the Golden Peacock. "I'm quite impressed! I suppose I should be modest in my description, but the Imperial Palaces are really quite exquisite. The parks are quite large, but I do prefer the halls and pavillions myself. My family, the Ambalinggu, legally owns the halls, but we manage them as a museum as well as a residence."

He was technically lying, as the Niuhuru clan had been forced in the 50s to open the palaces to the public, or completely lose ownership. To maintain their huge fortune and appear to do their civic duty, they had to reorganize the way they ran the Palace.

"I am afraid it has been a long time since I went on the hunt; I am getting too old to ride a horse anymore and I find it distasteful to have the game pushed to me as I recline on a couch." he chuckled. "I think you will find Pholimjung more familiar than the capital here. We Bajeong are often accused to being backward, but the sights, sounds, and smells of the golden city of Pholimjung are a pride. Your Excellency is the welcome guest of the Clan Niuhuru."

* * *
Smyczek nodded to Kozminsky.

"Of course, of course. This is a very airy affair, there is no focus on state ceremony; we retain that for the Opening Ritual. Her Excellency may speak to the Chancellor at length, if she wishes, but there will be many angry lobbyists. As for the gifts, I can't say I'm quite sure. We've never receive such gifts. It'll be a question for the Minister of Justice- I don't think I see her here yet, but I will point her out when she arrives."

He took a sip of his drink and decided to change the subject to something more friendly.

"Do you like brandy, Vasili? There's a particular variety I'm partial to, Tejaara Special, comes from the vineyards of the Tejaaran Veldt in south-eastern Sring Issa. Wonderful flavors. I can't say I'm much of an afficionado for liqeurs, or drinks in general, but along with a good potato vodka I don't drink anything else. My grandfather emigrated from Poland around the turn of the century, you see. He always called his drinks "a little taste of Lublin."

Kozminsky was glad of the company of another European. Most of his adult life had been spent in the halls of power of the empire. Between the arrogance of the Mongol khans and princes and the outright fear engendered by reports of rapacious Slavs during the Caucasian wars which for many ordinary non-European Urgenchis was their only mental image of the empire's European subjects Kozminsky had always felt somewhat of a fish out of water.

" I like brandy very well Jan. " Kozminsky smiled broadly, his imposing height and old fashioned, dark good looks all made sense when he smiled. " My father made Wodka at home until the day he died. When times were lean he made it from paper and it made him cough violently but in good years he used the wheat which grew so tall in the fields round Turgov. I spent ten years as an equerry to the King of Hungary there I developed a taste for Slivovitz I brought some with me from Urgench. you must try some the next time you are at the Embassy. The Asian Urgenchis all drink hallucinogenic teas and take laudanum and the like, i prefer my poisons to have more predictable outcomes "

* * *

Airgiarn was charmed by the elderly Imperial Prince he reminded her of some of the more human of her fathers contemporaries who would be in Urgench at this time of year, there to celebrate, with the rest of the Empire, the Emperor's birthday. She wondered if Prince Sibeoci in common with her father missed the days when the hereditary principle reigned supreme, when princes had no need to explain themselves or make account of their actions.

" I shouldn't be impressed if I were your Excellency. Most of the petty royals of Urgench are no better than crooks descended from bandits. " Airgiarn laughed, her father had always said that the Borjigin-Ingizd, the Imperial family, had been no better than criminal exiles living next door to whom even the Chinese had objected to.

" I will have Kozminsky engage a place to retreat to in Pholimjung your Excellency, perhaps you can recommend somewhere appropriate? Of course you must consider the Embassy and the welcome of Urgench not to mention my own personal hospitality as always at your pleasure. We will be honoured to entertain you when ever you find it convenient. I must profess only an amateur's familiarity with the history of Bae, perhaps you might do me the very great favour of enlightening me further? Is your dynasty a very ancient one? The line of the princes of Koko Nor trace themselves to a roguish Tibetan called Khiakanga Pon who fought for Empress Uzgurthani during the Tang wars. "

The Altan Steppes had always enjoyed friendly relations with Snefaldia. When word of the new Chancellor's planned reception arrived at the massive glass tower in Natascora that housed the State Department, it was quickly determined that someone important should be sent. Unfortunately, the President and Secretary of State were both occupied with mediating a summit to end a civil war in a neighboring state. The question then became: who to send?

It was decided that the newly appointed Vice-President, Shayla Garturban, should attend the reception. After some less-than-diplomatic remarks she had made concerning the death of her predecessor, Aliri Margal, the powers that be had decided that Garturban would serve the Federation better by showing the flag abroad rather than making speeches at home that incited riots and inflamed tensions with the Federation's neighbors. The Vice-President was bundled onto a plane posthaste, with strict instructions from President Kasimira not to do anything embarrassing.

---

At the reception, the Federation ambassador to Snefaldia, Anvar Halyk (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/halyk.jpg), escorted the Vice-President into the hall. Halyk would've rather have been back at the embassy reading a book, but understood the need for attending such events. Hopefully this won't drag on too much, he thought, scanning the room for a tasty alcoholic beverage.

Standing next to to the conservatively-suited ambassador, Garturban stood out in marked contrast. The Vice-President disdained "modern" clothes on most occasions, preferring traditional Altanari or Argali dress. Her outfit (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/garturban.jpg) for the evening was no exception to that rule. She scanned the room as well, a polite yet cool expression on her face as she looked around.

Kozminsky was glad of the company of another European. Most of his adult life had been spent in the halls of power of the empire. Between the arrogance of the Mongol khans and princes and the outright fear engendered by reports of rapacious Slavs during the Caucasian wars which for many ordinary non-European Urgenchis was their only mental image of the empire's European subjects Kozminsky had always felt somewhat of a fish out of water.

" I like brandy very well Jan. " Kozminsky smiled broadly, his imposing height and old fashioned, dark good looks all made sense when he smiled. " My father made Wodka at home until the day he died. When times were lean he made it from paper and it made him cough violently but in good years he used the wheat which grew so tall in the fields round Turgov. I spent ten years as an equerry to the King of Hungary there I developed a taste for Slivovitz I brought some with me from Urgench. you must try some the next time you are at the Embassy. The Asian Urgenchis all drink hallucinogenic teas and take laudanum and the like, i prefer my poisons to have more predictable outcomes "

"Home-made? I wouldn't dare drink anything I made myself. As for your offer, I'd be more than happy to sample the flavors of Urgench- there will be a trade symposium of consulates in a few weeks in the Port City, it will be a wonderful opportunity for your embassy to show off the products of your nation. As a matter of fact-"

He waved his hand, beckoning a tall, thin woman over. Tall, blond, and fair-featured, she was an almost textbook image of Western Neeri beauty.

"-allow me to introduce the new Minister of Commerce, Andreá Sendávär. Andreá, this is Vasili Kozminsky, from Urgench. We were just discussing some of the exquisite products of his nation, and I mentioned the summit in a few weeks."

She smiled, extending her hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you."

Airgiarn was charmed by the elderly Imperial Prince he reminded her of some of the more human of her fathers contemporaries who would be in Urgench at this time of year, there to celebrate, with the rest of the Empire, the Emperor's birthday. She wondered if Prince Sibeoci in common with her father missed the days when the hereditary principle reigned supreme, when princes had no need to explain themselves or make account of their actions.

" I shouldn't be impressed if I were your Excellency. Most of the petty royals of Urgench are no better than crooks descended from bandits. " Airgiarn laughed, her father had always said that the Borjigin-Ingizd, the Imperial family, had been no better than criminal exiles living next door to whom even the Chinese had objected to.

" I will have Kozminsky engage a place to retreat to in Pholimjung your Excellency, perhaps you can recommend somewhere appropriate? Of course you must consider the Embassy and the welcome of Urgench not to mention my own personal hospitality as always at your pleasure. We will be honoured to entertain you when ever you find it convenient. I must profess only an amateur's familiarity with the history of Bae, perhaps you might do me the very great favour of enlightening me further? Is your dynasty a very ancient one? The line of the princes of Koko Nor trace themselves to a roguish Tibetan called Khiakanga Pon who fought for Empress Uzgurthani during the Tang wars. "

He shook his head in disappointment. "In these modern times, the old nobility have tended to descend into reactionary politics and masturbatory self-congratulation. There are many in my clan who dislike my moderate politics. But, we must remember that we are no longer the rulers of an empire, and the survival of our families are of utmost importance."

He was quite serious; the Niuhuru clan had grown massive as had the five other Great Clans organized at the top of the Namubae pyramid by Empress Tahjilmur. The five families of Niuhuru were constantly bickering over wealth and liberty, Sibeoci had served for the past thirty years as a moderating force of the family, while his cousin, the late Šigiyanu of the Uciyarkan family, had sought to strengthen the political power of the clan; he had been the 7th Lord High Chancellor, before Count Kellerman.

"Of course you and your retinue are welcome at the Imperial Palace, as are you royal relatives." he continued. "Strengthening the ties between both our nations and our families is boundlessly desirable. The history of Urgench and Bae is not so different, if perhaps shorter in our case. The Imperial power of my clan only appeared at the beginning of the 19th century; perhaps surprisingly by a woman- the Great Dowager Empress Tahjilmur, my great-great-grandmother."

At the reception, the Federation ambassador to Snefaldia, Anvar Halyk (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/halyk.jpg), escorted the Vice-President into the hall. Halyk would've rather have been back at the embassy reading a book, but understood the need for attending such events. Hopefully this won't drag on too much, he thought, scanning the room for a tasty alcoholic beverage.

Standing next to to the conservatively-suited ambassador, Garturban stood out in marked contrast. The Vice-President disdained "modern" clothes on most occasions, preferring traditional Altanari or Argali dress. Her outfit (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/garturban.jpg) for the evening was no exception to that rule. She scanned the room as well, a polite yet cool expression on her face as she looked around.

If the Altani Vice-President had been expecting to stick our among a group of suit-clad politicians, they were mistaken. "Western" style clothing, with the exception of the Foreign Minister, was still far from the norm in Snefaldian culture; owing to the strength of the regional ethnicities the "native" clothing of the cultures were still worn everyday. Chancellor Dirh, swathed in silk from head to toe, heard the announcement of the Altani delegation and, excusing himself from a particular excruciating conversation with a Viscount from northern Sring Issa, swept over to the new arrivals.

"Ambassador Halyk, pleasure to see you again. How are the new offices, I hope you've had time to get situated and that everything's satisfactory."

He gave a short bow to the Vice President.

"Ren Dirh, it's my pleasure." he said simply, eschewing his title for the sake of familiarity.

"Home-made? I wouldn't dare drink anything I made myself. As for your offer, I'd be more than happy to sample the flavors of Urgench- there will be a trade symposium of consulates in a few weeks in the Port City, it will be a wonderful opportunity for your embassy to show off the products of your nation. As a matter of fact-"

He waved his hand, beckoning a tall, thin woman over. Tall, blond, and fair-featured, she was an almost textbook image of Western Neeri beauty.

"-allow me to introduce the new Minister of Commerce, Andreá Sendávär. Andreá, this is Vasili Kozminsky, from Urgench. We were just discussing some of the exquisite products of his nation, and I mentioned the summit in a few weeks."

She smiled, extending her hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you."



He shook his head in disappointment. "In these modern times, the old nobility have tended to descend into reactionary politics and masturbatory self-congratulation. There are many in my clan who dislike my moderate politics. But, we must remember that we are no longer the rulers of an empire, and the survival of our families are of utmost importance."

He was quite serious; the Niuhuru clan had grown massive as had the five other Great Clans organized at the top of the Namubae pyramid by Empress Tahjilmur. The five families of Niuhuru were constantly bickering over wealth and liberty, Sibeoci had served for the past thirty years as a moderating force of the family, while his cousin, the late Šigiyanu of the Uciyarkan family, had sought to strengthen the political power of the clan; he had been the 7th Lord High Chancellor, before Count Kellerman.

"Of course you and your retinue are welcome at the Imperial Palace, as are you royal relatives." he continued. "Strengthening the ties between both our nations and our families is boundlessly desirable. The history of Urgench and Bae is not so different, if perhaps shorter in our case. The Imperial power of my clan only appeared at the beginning of the 19th century; perhaps surprisingly by a woman- the Great Dowager Empress Tahjilmur, my great-great-grandmother."




Airgiarn wondered what caused a vague air of sadness or perhaps resignation in the manner of this aged Prince.

" The pace of change has been prodigious in Snefaldia then your Excellency ? And yet the state seems well adjusted with itself. Change comes slowly to Urgench and when it does it comes in convulsions which seem to periodically return until an appropriate cure is found and applied with vigour. " Airgiarn sipped her champagne absent mindedly. Her skin shimmered in an unusual way and her eyes glistened brightly with belladonna.

" Is the new Chancellor well liked your Excellency? What do you think of him? Our own Grand Chancellor is beloved by the ordinary people of Urgench. His return from convalescence in Uzgen saw the streets of the winter capital lined with thousands of well wishers, and his new ideas for the Empire seem to have ignited the political classes. Kozminky's compatriots are especially excited. " Airgiarn's nerves were beginning to relax. She was glad of the company of this wise seeming man.


* * *

Kozminsky bowed and clicked his heels " The pleasure is all mine Ms. Sendávär, "

Kozminsky was used to the grand and painted beauties of Court who's cynical machinations aimed at snatching power were half the reason that men like him were employed at all . Ms. Sendávär had a natural smile which betrayed an intelligence which was refreshing to him.

" Congratulations on your new appointment Minister. Our two states will hopefully have much common interest in matters of trade, I look forward to helping her Imperial Highness and yourself in satisfying this interest. In fact, though the princess will chastise me for mentioning it at such an occasion, I know she has been instructed to investigate the possible interest of Snefaldia in certain preferential trade agreements. The Empire is in most things self sufficient of course but not in all, and we have a large interest in exporting the luxury goods and raw materials which the Empire is abundant in. "

Kozminsky smiles broadly and sips his Champagne...

If the Altani Vice-President had been expecting to stick our among a group of suit-clad politicians, they were mistaken. "Western" style clothing, with the exception of the Foreign Minister, was still far from the norm in Snefaldian culture; owing to the strength of the regional ethnicities the "native" clothing of the cultures were still worn everyday. Chancellor Dirh, swathed in silk from head to toe, heard the announcement of the Altani delegation and, excusing himself from a particular excruciating conversation with a Viscount from northern Sring Issa, swept over to the new arrivals.

"Ambassador Halyk, pleasure to see you again. How are the new offices, I hope you've had time to get situated and that everything's satisfactory."

He gave a short bow to the Vice President.

"Ren Dirh, it's my pleasure." he said simply, eschewing his title for the sake of familiarity.

"It's a pleasure to see you again as well, Chancellor," Halyk said, with a polite bow. "Indeed, I am comfortably situated now and quite enjoying this marvelous city. Oh, but where are my manners - allow me to introduce our Vice-President, Shayla Garturban."

Garturban cracked a small smile and gave an elegant bow of her own. "I am most pleased to meet you as well, Chancellor Dirh - may I call you Ren? Or would that be too forward of me?" she said, a slight twinkle in her eye.

Airgiarn wondered what caused a vague air of sadness or perhaps resignation in the manner of this aged Prince.

" The pace of change has been prodigious in Snefaldia then your Excellency ? And yet the state seems well adjusted with itself. Change comes slowly to Urgench and when it does it comes in convulsions which seem to periodically return until an appropriate cure is found and applied with vigour. " Airgiarn sipped her champagne absent mindedly. Her skin shimmered in an unusual way and her eyes glistened brightly with belladonna.

" Is the new Chancellor well liked your Excellency? What do you think of him? Our own Grand Chancellor is beloved by the ordinary people of Urgench. His return from convalescence in Uzgen saw the streets of the winter capital lined with thousands of well wishers, and his new ideas for the Empire seem to have ignited the political classes. Kozminky's compatriots are especially excited. " Airgiarn's nerves were beginning to relax. She was glad of the company of this wise seeming man.

Sibeoci nodded as the Princess spoke. "I cannot say progress has been easy. The entire country has seen great strife. Snefaldia, as a nation, is little more than 100 years old and we have seen three states rise in that time."

He inwardly thought of "progress" as the demon of Republicanism that had destroyed his family's rule of Bae and subjugated the Bajeong. He shook away such thoughts; they were old-fashioned and out of touch. It was the truth, though, that every time the people and ideas of Sring Issa entered Bae it was on the end of a sword or out of the barrel of a gun.

"The States-Federation, which is the third government, gives everyone much hope for the future. We are more unified than ever, which everyone ascribes to the leadership of Aatem Nal during the latter half of the last century. I personally approve of Chancellor Dirh and his policies; he has always spoken his mind and done what he thought best for the country. His verbal excesses as Foreign Minister notwithstanding, of course."

A man in a smart black frock coat and silver-rimmed Oxfords turned and gave a chuckle at Sibeoci's final phrase.

"It certainly didn't bother the electorate. Prince Gao, it's been too long."

The Bajeong gave a short nod, then gestured from Airgiarn to the man. "Princess, this is Andrew Holbrook, the Grand Librarian of Serasarda, and arguably the most powerful man in the religion of Aatem Nal." He continued with a devilish twinkle in his eye. "He insists upon using my regnal name of Prince Gao as a little joke, and I insist upon pointing out his tendency to dress like a teacher, rather than the priest that he is."

Holbrook gave a sweeping bow to the Urgenchi diplomat. "The Grand Patriarch of Clan Niuhuru does himself little honor. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, madame. Blessing of the Motions upon you."

OOC: For reference, his normal title is "Grand Patriarch Niuhuru, Ambalinggu Sibeoci, the Imperial Prince Gao." The full title, with all attendant flourishes, is too long to write here.
Kozminsky bowed and clicked his heels " The pleasure is all mine Ms. Sendávär, "

Kozminsky was used to the grand and painted beauties of Court who's cynical machinations aimed at snatching power were half the reason that men like him were employed at all . Ms. Sendávär had a natural smile which betrayed an intelligence which was refreshing to him.

" Congratulations on your new appointment Minister. Our two states will hopefully have much common interest in matters of trade, I look forward to helping her Imperial Highness and yourself in satisfying this interest. In fact, though the princess will chastise me for mentioning it at such an occasion, I know she has been instructed to investigate the possible interest of Snefaldia in certain preferential trade agreements. The Empire is in most things self sufficient of course but not in all, and we have a large interest in exporting the luxury goods and raw materials which the Empire is abundant in. "

"It doesn't bother me one whit to talk a little shop." she said quickly, switching on a businesslike demeanor. "All this is not just to talk twaddle with glitterati. I read the report on Urgench, and I have to say I'm quite impressed. Snefaldian economy is largely based on services and finished products, our main specialities being publishing and weaponry. The tech industry is growing by leaps and bounds. However, we're rather deficient in material goods due to our longstanding cultural and legal policies of minimal environmental exploitation, and thus have to pay astronomical sums to import what we need. I can see a beneficial trade agreement coming out of our situations."

Dirh chose her exactly for her ability to get right to the heart of problems and articulate what was needed. She certainly lived up to his expectations.

"It's a pleasure to see you again as well, Chancellor," Halyk said, with a polite bow. "Indeed, I am comfortably situated now and quite enjoying this marvelous city. Oh, but where are my manners - allow me to introduce our Vice-President, Shayla Garturban."

Garturban cracked a small smile and gave an elegant bow of her own. "I am most pleased to meet you as well, Chancellor Dirh - may I call you Ren? Or would that be too forward of me?" she said, a slight twinkle in her eye.

"Only if I may call Shayla." he responded with a grin. "And please, allow me to offer my apologies that your taking the position of Vice-President has to come under such sad circumstances. Political opinions aside, the death of Ms. Margal was a terrible occurrence."

He was silent for a moment, then took a sip of his drink and brightened. "I've heard about military operations in Greenlandic People? It seems there's a lot of foreign intervention going on; this business in Manhattan Prime over the last few weeks has kept us all fixed. It's the international world we live in, I suppose. Makes the petty arguing in Parliament seem insignificant."

"Only if I may call Shayla." he responded with a grin. "And please, allow me to offer my apologies that your taking the position of Vice-President has to come under such sad circumstances. Political opinions aside, the death of Ms. Margal was a terrible occurrence."

He was silent for a moment, then took a sip of his drink and brightened. "I've heard about military operations in Greenlandic People? It seems there's a lot of foreign intervention going on; this business in Manhattan Prime over the last few weeks has kept us all fixed. It's the international world we live in, I suppose. Makes the petty arguing in Parliament seem insignificant."

"Indeed it does. It's unfortunate that we must exist in such turmoil. I'm glad that both your nation and our own seem to have gotten past our internal travails, however," Garturban said. "Our nations seem to share an unfortunate history of ethnic and internal strife, but thankfully we both seem to be overcoming such burdens of history. Aliri was one of my closest friends, and her loss was a great blow to us all. But I can't help but think that she would be glad that her memory is helping to unite our nation, which she cared about deeply."

"The external travails are what concern me more, frankly," Halyk said. "We have three humanitarian or peacekeeping operations going on right now, and Aliri's assassination may well lead to further military operations. All of this is definitely rallying our people behind the Federation banner, but I can't help but wonder if it's worth the cost," he added. Halyk's mind flashed back to a recent budget report showing that the peacekeeping operations alone were costing the Federation almost $2 billion a week, and he took a long swig from his glass.

"The cost is indeed high, but as the saying goes, Anvar, freedom is not free. Nor is justice. Wouldn't you agree?" Garturban said, turning back to Dirh.

Sibeoci nodded as the Princess spoke. "I cannot say progress has been easy. The entire country has seen great strife. Snefaldia, as a nation, is little more than 100 years old and we have seen three states rise in that time."

He inwardly thought of "progress" as the demon of Republicanism that had destroyed his family's rule of Bae and subjugated the Bajeong. He shook away such thoughts; they were old-fashioned and out of touch. It was the truth, though, that every time the people and ideas of Sring Issa entered Bae it was on the end of a sword or out of the barrel of a gun.

"The States-Federation, which is the third government, gives everyone much hope for the future. We are more unified than ever, which everyone ascribes to the leadership of Aatem Nal during the latter half of the last century. I personally approve of Chancellor Dirh and his policies; he has always spoken his mind and done what he thought best for the country. His verbal excesses as Foreign Minister notwithstanding, of course."

A man in a smart black frock coat and silver-rimmed Oxfords turned and gave a chuckle at Sibeoci's final phrase.

"It certainly didn't bother the electorate. Prince Gao, it's been too long."

The Bajeong gave a short nod, then gestured from Airgiarn to the man. "Princess, this is Andrew Holbrook, the Grand Librarian of Serasarda, and arguably the most powerful man in the religion of Aatem Nal." He continued with a devilish twinkle in his eye. "He insists upon using my regnal name of Prince Gao as a little joke, and I insist upon pointing out his tendency to dress like a teacher, rather than the priest that he is."

Holbrook gave a sweeping bow to the Urgenchi diplomat. "The Grand Patriarch of Clan Niuhuru does himself little honor. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, madame. Blessing of the Motions upon you."

OOC: For reference, his normal title is "Grand Patriarch Niuhuru, Ambalinggu Sibeoci, the Imperial Prince Gao." The full title, with all attendant flourishes, is too long to write here.


"It doesn't bother me one whit to talk a little shop." she said quickly, switching on a businesslike demeanor. "All this is not just to talk twaddle with glitterati. I read the report on Urgench, and I have to say I'm quite impressed. Snefaldian economy is largely based on services and finished products, our main specialities being publishing and weaponry. The tech industry is growing by leaps and bounds. However, we're rather deficient in material goods due to our longstanding cultural and legal policies of minimal environmental exploitation, and thus have to pay astronomical sums to import what we need. I can see a beneficial trade agreement coming out of our situations."

Dirh chose her exactly for her ability to get right to the heart of problems and articulate what was needed. She certainly lived up to his expectations.



" How do you do your Reverence and Thank you. " Airgiarn had an instinctive unease in the company of clergy, so few still existed in Urgench, but she betrayed no hint of it.

" The library of Serasarda it highly renowned and greatly respected , there are scholars at the University of the Empire at Khodzhent who would sell their souls for a few hours researching at it. Khodzhent has an excellent faculty of Metaphysics who would doubtless love to pick your brains. " Airgiarn wondered if Professor Beyazidi's ears were burning.

" A library of scrolls has been unearthed in Kucha, relating a lost cosmogony of the Manichees, it is written in some strange dialect of Assyrian, it's otherworldly insights have our religious historians quivering with admiration. How goes it at the Bel your Reverence ? "

* * *

" Well minister you may be interested to know that 5 new Deep Earth rare metals mines have been opened in Siberia. They are already producing prodigious quantities of Rhodium, Palladium and Niobium among other things. We are only able to utilise so much of these commodities domestically and we are looking for a friendly trading partner who may have need of such things.

The Empire is also in need of new markets for it's perfume and fur and Jewellery producers who's work is unsurpassed.

The banking sector in Urgench is one in which a services orientated economy could make very great strides in, it lacks competition. The smaller autonomous principalities currently enjoy the lion's share of the banking sector and the Empire is anxious to introduce as much competition into the market as possible. " Kozminsky loved getting down to business. Someone with a tray took his empty glass and he took a fresh one. He enjoyed these sorts of occasion only when he could see a practical benefit to the empire arising from them, perhaps that was why he was habitually single.

"Indeed it does. It's unfortunate that we must exist in such turmoil. I'm glad that both your nation and our own seem to have gotten past our internal travails, however," Garturban said. "Our nations seem to share an unfortunate history of ethnic and internal strife, but thankfully we both seem to be overcoming such burdens of history. Aliri was one of my closest friends, and her loss was a great blow to us all. But I can't help but think that she would be glad that her memory is helping to unite our nation, which she cared about deeply."

"The external travails are what concern me more, frankly," Halyk said. "We have three humanitarian or peacekeeping operations going on right now, and Aliri's assassination may well lead to further military operations. All of this is definitely rallying our people behind the Federation banner, but I can't help but wonder if it's worth the cost," he added. Halyk's mind flashed back to a recent budget report showing that the peacekeeping operations alone were costing the Federation almost $2 billion a week, and he took a long swig from his glass.

"The cost is indeed high, but as the saying goes, Anvar, freedom is not free. Nor is justice. Wouldn't you agree?" Garturban said, turning back to Dirh.

"Turns of phrase simplify things." the Chancellor said with a laugh. "I would ask 'what is justice' but I'm wary of being philosophical at a cocktail party. Statecraft is about doing what is best for the largest number of people, usually your own. There's very little meaning behind titles like "nation" and "federation," other than a loose concept of what the world is like."

He cocked his head, as if thinking more deeply.

"Snefaldia as a country has existed only for little over a century, your Federation for less than a few years. Perhaps I consider myself a 'Snefaldian,' but that title is without any worth unless there is some benefit to it. My goal, as was the goal of Aatem Nal before the established of the States-Federation, is to ensure peace and harmony for all the people living in the five regions, to attach some benefit to the title 'Snefaldia.' If that means doing unpopular things, then by all means they must be done. We can only do what we think is right; there is always someone who will disagree."

" How do you do your Reverence and Thank you. " Airgiarn had an instinctive unease in the company of clergy, so few still existed in Urgench, but she betrayed no hint of it.

" The library of Serasarda it highly renowned and greatly respected , there are scholars at the University of the Empire at Khodzhent who would sell their souls for a few hours researching at it. Khodzhent has an excellent faculty of Metaphysics who would doubtless love to pick your brains. " Airgiarn wondered if Professor Beyazidi's ears were burning.

" A library of scrolls has been unearthed in Kucha, relating a lost cosmogony of the Manichees, it is written in some strange dialect of Assyrian, it's otherworldly insights have our religious historians quivering with admiration. How goes it at the Bel your Reverence ? "

Holbrook flashed a smile. "The Grand Library is the pride and joy of every Snefaldian. All of the libraries of Aatem Nal are beacons of learning. The Grand Patriarch is mistaken when he says I am more of a priest than a teacher; we are all teachers, and we are all learners. There isn't a day that goes by we do not learn something new, whether it is about existence, ourselves, or the Motions."

He held out his left hand, palm down. "My hand has five fingers, and there is a scar that crosses the tendons of my pointer and middle fingers. I got it when I was 15 years old, if I remember correctly, a cut from a broken sword while fencing." He returned his hand to his pocket, smiling. "Now you have learned something about me, and I have taught you. From you, I learned of the recent discoveries by the scholars at Khodzhent. This is the nature of the Motions- all things are knowable."

Sibeoci chuckled, waving his hand in a shooing motion. "The Grand Librarian is thinking this is time to begin a lesson. Certainly not! The Grand Library is always open, all hours on every day. I have only been there three times myself, but it's really an amazing sight. The Library at Pholimjung is the largest in Bae, but it pales in comparison to the massive complex of Aatem Nal in Serasarda."

"My apologies." Holbrook begged. "I am so used to teaching. But naturally, I would be happy to host scholars from Urgench in Serasarda. They might find the debates of the Tuhran Bel rather boring- it has returned to a more theological format since the establishment of government. The interesting talks are the regional conclaves and symposia. The latest discoveries and breathroughs are argued there. We call ourselves "historians" after the original Greek word- historiae, "an inquiry." We are always inquiring, everything is a history!"

" Well minister you may be interested to know that 5 new Deep Earth rare metals mines have been opened in Siberia. They are already producing prodigious quantities of Rhodium, Palladium and Niobium among other things. We are only able to utilise so much of these commodities domestically and we are looking for a friendly trading partner who may have need of such things.

The Empire is also in need of new markets for it's perfume and fur and Jewellery producers who's work is unsurpassed.

The banking sector in Urgench is one in which a services orientated economy could make very great strides in, it lacks competition. The smaller autonomous principalities currently enjoy the lion's share of the banking sector and the Empire is anxious to introduce as much competition into the market as possible. " Kozminsky loved getting down to business. Someone with a tray took his empty glass and he took a fresh one. He enjoyed these sorts of occasion only when he could see a practical benefit to the empire arising from them, perhaps that was why he was habitually single.

"We will certainly have to discuss the details at the summit in Taxilha." she said. Taxilha is the largest trade city, and the only port, in Snefaldia; hence the name "the Port City" was often used interchangeably with the Shahd language name. "With luck, we will be able to work out a beneficial arrangemnt."

((Hope you don't mind if I butt in))

"Gaius Numerius Merenda, envoy from the Holy Imperial Republic of Rathanan!"

Merenda entered the Chancellery House of Snefaldia slowly after he was announced. Gaius was a younger man who was generally given the insignificant, but easy to get used to, job of going to special parties abroad on behalf of the Minister of Diplomacy Quintus Octavius Lepidus and other high level officials. Merenda was mostly an insignificant man, he was fairly short and not very well built, but otherwise looked like a typical Rathani citizen (similar to the Greeks). He wore a tuxedo and his black hair was slicked back and well gelled. As he looked around at the other guests, he muttered and grabbed a glass of champagne from a server who passed by him.

"Well, I guess I should put my game face on." He stated under his breath as he walked forward towards the party, looking for someone to mingle with...

The entry of the Rathani envoy caught the eye of Foreign Minister Smyczek, who excused himself from a discussion about crops between the Minister of Agriculture and a the Minister of the River and headed over to the new entry, picking up a new drink and a canape along the way.

"I'm very happy you could make it to the reception, the Ministry of State told me there were diplomats from Rathanan staying in Sargedain, but I hadn't recieved official communiques yet. I hope we've been an impressive country so far." he said with a laugh, giving a bow and extending his hand. "Jan Smyczek, Foreign Minister. "Allow me to officially welcome you to Snefaldia, Mr... Merenda? Or Gaius? I can never remember which is the proper name to use in Latin, the clan name or the family."

Holbrook flashed a smile. "The Grand Library is the pride and joy of every Snefaldian. All of the libraries of Aatem Nal are beacons of learning. The Grand Patriarch is mistaken when he says I am more of a priest than a teacher; we are all teachers, and we are all learners. There isn't a day that goes by we do not learn something new, whether it is about existence, ourselves, or the Motions."

He held out his left hand, palm down. "My hand has five fingers, and there is a scar that crosses the tendons of my pointer and middle fingers. I got it when I was 15 years old, if I remember correctly, a cut from a broken sword while fencing." He returned his hand to his pocket, smiling. "Now you have learned something about me, and I have taught you. From you, I learned of the recent discoveries by the scholars at Khodzhent. This is the nature of the Motions- all things are knowable."

Sibeoci chuckled, waving his hand in a shooing motion. "The Grand Librarian is thinking this is time to begin a lesson. Certainly not! The Grand Library is always open, all hours on every day. I have only been there three times myself, but it's really an amazing sight. The Library at Pholimjung is the largest in Bae, but it pales in comparison to the massive complex of Aatem Nal in Serasarda."

"My apologies." Holbrook begged. "I am so used to teaching. But naturally, I would be happy to host scholars from Urgench in Serasarda. They might find the debates of the Tuhran Bel rather boring- it has returned to a more theological format since the establishment of government. The interesting talks are the regional conclaves and symposia. The latest discoveries and breathroughs are argued there. We call ourselves "historians" after the original Greek word- historiae, "an inquiry." We are always inquiring, everything is a history!"



"We will certainly have to discuss the details at the summit in Taxilha." she said. Taxilha is the largest trade city, and the only port, in Snefaldia; hence the name "the Port City" was often used interchangeably with the Shahd language name. "With luck, we will be able to work out a beneficial arrangemnt."



Airgiarn was slightly puzzled by the Clerics words but felt sure she had been improved by hearing them. She had never experienced any instruction in things mystical and could see how seductive it might be.

" It is with some embarrassment, Gentlemen, that i must admit to you both that my most spiritual experience thus far in life is the day I was presented at Court. My father took me on the long journey from Koko Nor to Tabriz, we crossed half the empire in the process which is enlightening enough may i tell you, on arrival in Tabriz i was taken to the atelier of Messrs Borrodin and Arsuf to be outfitted in the customary style. The furs and silks were tremendously heavy and hot.

The next day the state Troika of Koko Nor arrived to take me and my father to the Palace of Twelve Gates, I don't think i have ever been so nervous in my life. My father held my hand all the way and reminded me of how i should behave in the company of his Divine Majesty and his family. I have a sort of lapse of memory about what happened before the actual moment I was presented.

The Throne room was astonishing, it is resplendent in a way only the Emperors of Urgench could justify. Hundreds of other girls of my age were there also that day to be presented, all as stiffly and richly dressed as I but we appeared as Sparrows in the company of a Peacock compared to the Emperor and his August Mother who sat beside him. Clouds of precious perfumes and incenses filled the air and so it was not until I was brought directly into his Divine Majesty's presence that I saw his face. Framed by the Gryphon Tiara was the face of a boy! no more than a few years older than me. And yet in his eyes there was a power and an almost preternatural clarity which I have never seen since, I was transported by the majesty and serene calm in that young mans face in a way I cannot describe.

Naturally his Divine Majesty did not speak to me or even directly acknowledge me, that would be counter to custom, but the Dowager Empress expressed her personal pleasure to see the daughter of her cousin and complemented me on my bearing and demeanor. To this day I cannot remember what she actually said, I was told in detail by my father afterwards, and my abiding memory of that day is his Divine Majesty's visage , blessing to behold. His Divine Majesty is seen by so few and so rarely that to have been one of those honoured few is one of the most sacred moments in my life. " Airgiarn finished her story slightly breathless, and not entirely from the strain of having to speak so much more loudly than usual. She sipped her drink and indulged herself in a momentary reverie.

" We have so few oportunities for the expression of anything like spirituality in Urgench, I am sure my story must sound very mundane to you both. "

* * *

" Well Minister, expect our presence at Taxilha. Our Grand Chancellor is proposing an economic summit at Uzgen next month, we would be honoured if Snefaldia could be present at it ? Needless to say the delights of Uzgen will undoubtedly alleviate the possible tedium of such negotiations. It is famous for its exclusive spa resorts and is a haunt of the Empire's great, good and famous. " Kozminsky hoped Minister Sendávär would be interested, at least in order to show Airgiarn's posting to Snefaldia in as positive a light as possible as soon as possible.

"Turns of phrase simplify things." the Chancellor said with a laugh. "I would ask 'what is justice' but I'm wary of being philosophical at a cocktail party. Statecraft is about doing what is best for the largest number of people, usually your own. There's very little meaning behind titles like "nation" and "federation," other than a loose concept of what the world is like."

He cocked his head, as if thinking more deeply.

"Snefaldia as a country has existed only for little over a century, your Federation for less than a few years. Perhaps I consider myself a 'Snefaldian,' but that title is without any worth unless there is some benefit to it. My goal, as was the goal of Aatem Nal before the established of the States-Federation, is to ensure peace and harmony for all the people living in the five regions, to attach some benefit to the title 'Snefaldia.' If that means doing unpopular things, then by all means they must be done. We can only do what we think is right; there is always someone who will disagree."

"This is true," Garturban said. "I have to say that I find the difference between our approaches to creating peace and harmony interesting. If I am interpreting things wrong I apologize in advance, but it seems to me that your nation places a large emphasis on maintaining your regional and ethnic distinctions. The idea behind the Federation, on the other hand, has been to obliterate those kind of distinctions in our own nation, to forge an entirely new identity, an Altani one." Garturban took a sip from her drink. "While in our experience regional and ethnic identification has caused us nothing but strife and hardship, I do have to wonder sometimes if we run the risk of forgetting who we are by seeking to eliminate those distinctions," she mused.

Next to her, Halyk snorted slightly, and took another sip from his drink. Garturban raised an eyebrow slightly at that, but didn't comment.

The entry of the Rathani envoy caught the eye of Foreign Minister Smyczek, who excused himself from a discussion about crops between the Minister of Agriculture and a the Minister of the River and headed over to the new entry, picking up a new drink and a canape along the way.

"I'm very happy you could make it to the reception, the Ministry of State told me there were diplomats from Rathanan staying in Sargedain, but I hadn't recieved official communiques yet. I hope we've been an impressive country so far." he said with a laugh, giving a bow and extending his hand. "Jan Smyczek, Foreign Minister. "Allow me to officially welcome you to Snefaldia, Mr... Merenda? Or Gaius? I can never remember which is the proper name to use in Latin, the clan name or the family."

Gaius smiled and nodded. "Thank you and yes, your country is quite impressive. When your administration gets underway, I am certain the Holy Emperor and the Imperial Senate would be most interested in starting more formal diplomatic relations." He said.

"As far as my name, my clan is actually the Numerii, my family name is Merenda... You may call me Gaius, if you wish." Gaius added as he took a sip of his drink. "We Rathanis, ethnically, are actually more Greek, but the Romans had a far greater influence on our society since Rathanan was under Roman rule from the Second Macedonian War until the rule of Julian the Apostate." He explained. "Latin is our common language, but Greek is the theological language, so all Rathani citizens are expected to know both." He added.

"But I am serious, once you get your administration under wraps, I am sure the Holy Emperor and the Holy Imperial Senate of Rathanan would be most interested in setting up some sort of diplomatic negotiation. He stated as he took another sip of his drink.

Some fool on a Schwini (http://www.nswiki.net/index.php?title=Schwini) E600 had parked next to where the motorcycle cops who would be escorting the President to the airport had parked their bikes. This would not have been a problem if he had only remembered to put down the kickstand before getting off. However, with a snowstorm blanketing the capital and stopping all outgoing flights, the delay caused by the unfortunate domino of police bikes proved immaterial.

Perhaps the President also should have left the day before, but with the airlines all insisting they had no long-range jets available to charter on such short notice... They sure wouldn't do this to the Prime Minister. It was another annoyance to remind Drapeau that he was a figurehead; his position was only powerful in theory and in protocol.

Dominique Drapeau stepped out of the car, smoothing down his suit. He rehearsed apologies and hoped his late arrival would not prove too insulting to his hosts.

The Chancellor gave a little laugh at Garturban's comment.

"Yes, it certainly does seem that way from the outside. The Republic was quite adept at trying to homogenize our identity, create a new ethnicity... but I am not alone in believing the efforts of the Tuhran Bel to create our Snefaldian identity have done so with respect to our traditions."

He flashed a knowing smile and took a sip from his drink.

"I have to say, it's quite interesting to hear such a statement about the Federation from the Vice-President. Is self-determination such a good thing? The prevailing thought in the last Bel era was that we must move slowly toward unity, not away. Master Reijihan Herad believed that people needed to be nudged away from their old associations. Do you not agree that there is greater benefit in unity and nationalism than in clanishness and self-rule?"

Gaius smiled and nodded. "Thank you and yes, your country is quite impressive. When your administration gets underway, I am certain the Holy Emperor and the Imperial Senate would be most interested in starting more formal diplomatic relations." He said.

"As far as my name, my clan is actually the Numerii, my family name is Merenda... You may call me Gaius, if you wish." Gaius added as he took a sip of his drink. "We Rathanis, ethnically, are actually more Greek, but the Romans had a far greater influence on our society since Rathanan was under Roman rule from the Second Macedonian War until the rule of Julian the Apostate." He explained. "Latin is our common language, but Greek is the theological language, so all Rathani citizens are expected to know both." He added.

"But I am serious, once you get your administration under wraps, I am sure the Holy Emperor and the Holy Imperial Senate of Rathanan would be most interested in setting up some sort of diplomatic negotiation. He stated as he took another sip of his drink.

Smyczek nodded as Gaius explained his name.

"Ah, now I see. We're mostly bi- or even trilingual in Snefaldia, but not Greek or Latin I'm afraid." he chuckled. "I speak English, Bagura, and Sringi, and I can also understand some Polish. I'm afraid I'm at a loss when it comes to the roman tongue."

He motioned to an equerry for another drink, and adjusted his tie as Gaius spoke.

"How do you mean, under wraps? We're quite settled, really, this administration is a sort of continuation of the previous one. Snefaldian politics are really quite byzantine. I will have my office contact your hotel in the morning to set up the necessary papers, and we can go from there."

He handed the diplomat a business card, neatly embossed with "Jan Smyczek, Foreign Minister."

"Now, I confess I haven't heard much about your nation. Perhaps you can tell me a bit more?"

Some fool on a Schwini (http://www.nswiki.net/index.php?title=Schwini) E600 had parked next to where the motorcycle cops who would be escorting the President to the airport had parked their bikes. This would not have been a problem if he had only remembered to put down the kickstand before getting off. However, with a snowstorm blanketing the capital and stopping all outgoing flights, the delay caused by the unfortunate domino of police bikes proved immaterial.

Perhaps the President also should have left the day before, but with the airlines all insisting they had no long-range jets available to charter on such short notice... They sure wouldn't do this to the Prime Minister. It was another annoyance to remind Drapeau that he was a figurehead; his position was only powerful in theory and in protocol.

Dominique Drapeau stepped out of the car, smoothing down his suit. He rehearsed apologies and hoped his late arrival would not prove too insulting to his hosts.

The residence was now bustling with dignitaries, and wine, food, and music were being dispensed in generous amounts. Traditional Snefaldian hospitality had no such concept of diplomatic restraint when it came to entertaining guests; the host was expected to provide an enjoyable experience, international decorum be damned. Traditions are always more fun than austerity, especially when they involved drinking.

His Excellency the President of Kelssek, Mr. Dominique Drapeau

The entrance of Drapeau was not immediately noticed by the Chancellor, who was deep in conversation with the Altani diplomats, but the Provost of Deputies, Márkës Vinsëłmø-Ŕymè, and former Chancellor William Kellerman, who were near the exit chatting, heard the announcement of the seneschal's equerry and decided on the diplomatic course.

It was no secret the importance to which the government held relations with Kelssek; while the September Crisis had been resolved by looking at the Altanari situation the new political system had been crafted with Kelssek as the model. Granted it had ended up a uniquely native system, but the thought was still there.

Both the politicians were advanced in age, Vinsëłmø-Ŕymè was 65 and Kellerman was 63, the former having served as Chancellor for almost a decade. It was the Provost, just recently the defeated rival of Ren Dirh, who came up to Drapeau.

"Mr. President, welcome to Snefaldia." said the Provost with a bow. "Márkës Vinsëłmø-Ŕymè, Provost of Deputies- and this is former Chancellor Count William Kellerman. It's a great pleasure to make your acquaintance."

The Chancellor gave a little laugh at Garturban's comment.

"Yes, it certainly does seem that way from the outside. The Republic was quite adept at trying to homogenize our identity, create a new ethnicity... but I am not alone in believing the efforts of the Tuhran Bel to create our Snefaldian identity have done so with respect to our traditions."

He flashed a knowing smile and took a sip from his drink.

"I have to say, it's quite interesting to hear such a statement about the Federation from the Vice-President. Is self-determination such a good thing? The prevailing thought in the last Bel era was that we must move slowly toward unity, not away. Master Reijihan Herad believed that people needed to be nudged away from their old associations. Do you not agree that there is greater benefit in unity and nationalism than in clanishness and self-rule?"

"Oh, indeed I do," Garturban said. "We've suffered through enough clannishness and nationalism in our history. I just wonder if we're moving too quickly sometimes, and without the respect to tradition that you mention. We're trying to do something within just a few years that it took you over a century to accomplish, and I sometimes wonder if we're throwing too much good out with the bad. Not everything about our regional traditions was so bad..." she mused, then sipped her drink again. "But I suppose one must make sacrifices to progress," she said.

Halyk snorted again, and this time he didn't remain silent. "To be totally honest, we could pitch the whole damn mess of our 'regional traditions' out and I wouldn't shed a tear. Clinging to regional and ethnic identity was a mistake, and the imposition of Altanari rule only exacerbated that by polarizing everyone along ethnic lines. It's even more ridiculous when you consider that the actual distinctions between our three major ethnicities, and particularly the Argali and the Altanari, are insignificant. There's been so much intermarriage and cultural cross-pollination that you can barely tell them apart anymore. Hell, most experts now believe the Argali and Altanari are just different offshoots of the same ethnic line, and that the Akamians were the ones who were living in the Altan before they showed up." Halyk deftly switched his empty glass out with another one he snagged from the tray of a servant walking by. "As far as I'm concerned, the past century of Altani history was one colossal mistake, and the Federation represents our collective way as a nation of saying we screwed up, so let's hit the reset button and try again," he finished.

The Vice-President smiled diplomatically. "We'll have to agree to disagree on that one, Ambassador."

Halyk gave a wry grin. "Perhaps you're right. I do tend to get a bit verbose and opinionated about our history," he said. "Speaking of history and knowledge, I've been meaning to visit some of your great libraries," Halyk said to Dirh. "We have some decent libraries of our own, but there's no one single group in the Altan that has the kind of scholastic heft that Aatem Nal does, for example."

The Chancellor shook his head. "We have had a century to fiddle with the formula. History is not so linear or clear-cut as we should like. I would like to say that we have accomplished what the Republic sought out to do (however poorly they went about it) but we still have quite a ways to go. The thinkers who controlled the Tuhran Bel in the last thirty years believed that partisan democracy was necessary to advance, a necessary evil."

Halyk's comment interested him, though. "I suppose I am something of a hypocrite. People are naturally stubborn and cling to what makes them comfortable, but I believe strongly in the maintenance of those traditions. I was criticized very loudly for my comments during the Ariddian unification crisis because it trampled on self-determination, and yet I am a Chancellor working at integrating all the constituent groups of the States-Federation into the Snefaldian nation-concept."

For all the talk about democracy and populism, Dirh mused somewhat ironically, the extent of shadow governance and what would be termed as conspiracy was still quite deep in the state. The Central Council of the Bel realized early on that they needed to manage carefully the progress of society; the establishment of the States-Federation had merely been a stepping stone in the grand plan for the nation. He shook of this line of thought and turned back to the Altani.

"I have been to Serasarda, but if one is to get the true scope of Aatem Nal and education in our country you should visit the Korsahad Library and a village Archive. I am very proud to be an adherent of Aatem Nal; we are not so much a religion as a grand philosophy built on books. After the Opening Ceremony and rituals in the Grand Basin there is traditionally a reception at the Sargedain Library; the Chief Librarian would be delighted to give you a tour and talk educational exchange I'm sure."

Drapeau greeted the duo.

"It is my honour, sirs. I am glad to be visiting your wonderful country."

...a judgement I have reached after being here for about an hour and seeing sites emblematic of Snefaldia, such as the airport and the inside of a car, he thought.

Still, he had definitely heard much about Snefaldia's recent excitement, and the intelligence people had assured him that the complimentary diplomatic communiques which had been arriving in the Prime Minister's office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were not simply idle diplomatic flattery. This was an important international partner, one worth much effort to build ties with.

"Your distinguished reputations precede you. Let's... proceed, shall we?"

The Grand Kingdom of Aerion had maintained good relations with Snefaldia, largely due to Crown Prince Regent Damoen Wasterin’s personal interest in the small country. A country that was now headed in a new direction.

No doubt an official visit to such an official reception would require extensive preparations for the Crown Prince. He had visited Snefaldia before, on a private expedition, but an official state visit would be far too noticeable. He therefore would send, perhaps regrettably to himself, his sister Princess Ameria Wasterin. Somewhat confusingly she was the Lady High Chancellor, the name of the chief diplomatic power in Aerion though there was still a Minister for Foreign Affairs. The Lord High Steward was the title of the head of the Royal Government.

Though there had been little international news from Aerion recently, it was simply that the status quo was being maintained albeit some disturbing undercurrents were developing in Aerion that might soon be revealed to the international scene. The megacorporations continued to work the people, as the wealthy remained isolated in their almost inaccessible walled towns, and the ever growing slums in the megalopolis cities evidenced that the megacorporations were not providing all of the jobs that were needed. Makan Buddhists continued to meditate, and pray over it all as well as provide social services. The many meetings of the Religious Society of Friends in Aerion also provided many social services. The lack of a large middle class made this difficult though. Crown Prince Regent Damoen cared, but his attempts at funding good social services from the Royal Treasury were often lost in the bureaucracy of the Royal Government.

The calculating Princess America Wasterin was somewhat feared by those in the know. Her brother seemed to trust her enough, but kept her at arms length. Her public image in the corporate media was that of a proper sister of the Crown Prince Regent, a woman of strength, grace, and charity. The conspiracy rumors that she was the High Priestess of a thousands year old cult that worshipped a bloodthirsty goddess or demon queen were far less than mainstream, but showed the opposing images of this young woman.

Princess Ameria Wasterin arrived in one of the latest technological achievements of Takares Aerospace Corporation, or perhaps adopted achievements. A supersonic VTOL (Vertical Take Off and Landing Jet). It was smaller than the luxurious customized Takares Business Jets the Royal Family often used, and certainly smaller than the massive jumbo jet Royal Air Transport 1 the Crown Prince Regent sometimes traveled on. It was about about 80 feet in length. After blasting into the airspace at the nearest airport, the VTOL jets would kick in to allow vertical landing.


Princess Ameria Wasterin was greeted by whomever the Snefaldians had placed to greet her, and also the Royal Embassy of Aerion in Sargedain was also present. Royal Ambassador Erusin Jagern awaited with her escort.

The Embassy Security Attaché was a hired Snefaldian national uniquely. Princess Ameria Wasterin was accompanied by five Royal Guard chosen for this trip because of their skill in horses though they would ride the sideboards of the carriage.

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security agents already employed by the embassy would also be there. Though they did not expect many problems here in Sargedain.

Once arrived, after the short ceremonial introductions she was rushed into the carriage as they were already late. In truth she disdained this journey. Her disdain was apparent with her personal attitude with the Royal Ambassador, though she maintained some sense of civility and royalty her cold quietness in the carriage ride was apparent as Ambassador Jagern spoke somewhat nervously of the goings on, and gave a quick etiquette and situation lesson though the Princess had already been briefed before leaving Astevane.

It was a short time before the convoy of three carriages, and horse escorts arrived at Chancellery House. The Princess stepped out along with the Royal Ambassador.

Princess Ameria Wasterin was a tall Eastern Aerionian woman, Eastern Aerionians having features that some compared to Persians though there was no ancestral connection. She arrived at the Chancellery House wearing an silk deep purple with crunched velvet blossomed at the bottom. In an unusual act of ancient Aerionian tradition that was gaining popularity once again, largely because she herself adopted the style, she also wore a sheer purple veil over her face that draped down her front rather long and beaded at the bottom with amethyst beads. This style had rarely been seen outside of Aerion or in the presence of any foreigners as it had remained custom in rural areas mostly in the northern, eastern, and parts of southern Aerion.

Her escort, Royal Ambassador Erusin Jagern would if appropriate wear Snefaldian formal style as he had been Ambassador to Snefaldia for quiet some time. Otherwise he would wear a subdued traditional black tie tuxedo in modern trim.

Somewhere in the Dreaming City of Närväryn
25 Vorstôthe in the DCCCLXXXIV year of the Seventeenth Millennium of the Bright Era

Perfectly white, featureless, the room lacked windows or doors. It was vast and empty, and it glowed with a soft brilliance, like an overexposed image. In the centre of a floor of white nothingness that seemed, perhaps by some trick of perspective, to stretch away in all directions forever, a table. It was black, without ornament, and the light seemed to bleed into it.

‘Some days ago the Foreign Ministry received an invitation from the office of the Lord Chancellor of Snefaldia,’ explained a tall, pale-faced young gentleman, his thin, mocking lips curling slightly into the barest hint of a wolf’s grin. ‘My understanding is that at this point in time only our ambassador in Sargedain is attending, and that the rest have responded with their own politely chosen apologies.’

The chairs that surrounded the table were incredibly high-backed and square, black like the table, all severe straight lines, and they framed their occupants like tall, overlarge portraits. Most of these portraits were empty at the moment, backgrounds of tightly-stretched, hard black leather upholstery within plain, minimal-width frames of gold-leaf burnished walnut.

The conspiracy was barely in quorum.

‘If the States-Federation has not received the level of attention and honour that she deserves then that is the Foreign Ministry’s oversight and not ours,’ spoke a high-shouldered lady with a sardonic half-smile, before shrugging a little like a vulture, ruffling her feathers. ‘Although perhaps our colleague will entertain our curiosity with his reasons for drawing our attention to this matter.’

The young gentleman crossed his legs with the slow, unlovely deliberation of a praying mantis. He demolished the remains of an expensive cigarette in a shiny, stainless steel ashtray, taking his time, crushing it methodically, tearing it at the end of its cork filter.

‘This invitation might offer our organisation a modest opportunity,’ the young gentleman smiled thinly. ‘Already rejected, a door is left open for us to place one of our own near the agents of foreign powers.’

‘Hmm,’ agreed another gentleman, his threaded, white-gloved fingers forming a canopy on which he rested his chin. If there had been a chessboard before him it would have looked as though he was considering his next move.

With his thin fingers, the young gentleman picked at the foil of a new packet of cigarettes, his favourite brand, Old Empyrean Twenty’s Select Cuts, touching at the luxurious silk paper. At his foot, like at every chair, there was a small, cylindrical, stainless steel bin, and when he taped at its lever a gentle current of warm escaped from under the lid, as from a vent. He dropped his scraps of foil into the bin, doubtless to be whisked away to some quick-burning furnace.

‘Can we have the Foreign Ministry reconsider its reply, I wonder?’ asked the lady with a frown, doubting.

‘We’ve the contacts required, but the question is who could we place at the gathering?’ replied a hoarse, high whisper from within a featureless black intercom, oval-shaped and small, on the table in front of an unoccupied chair. A tiny LED glowed red, indicating that, somewhere, a member of the conspiracy had been detained from attending the meeting, though not from providing his input.

They debated for some minutes before the white-gloved gentleman suggested an answer.

‘The Angyâr children?’


The States-Federation of Snefaldia
27 Vorstôthe DCCCLXXXIV

The great iron gate of the courtyard swung open, admitting clear night air, spurs, scarlet plumed helms, polished breastplates and broad-bladed pikes held high. A mounted squadron of the Silent Guard crowded around the Eternal Republic’s delegation, their mottled pale horses snorting nervously in the confined space, stamping and crunching on the gravel drive. Silk-tasselled sabres rattled in their scabbards, damask banners and pennants, fringed along the edges with broideries of pearls, flapped forlornly.

Wearing stiffly starched, wire-framed ruffs, the guardsmen themselves sneered from lips caked with carmine and cheeks plastered with thick cosmetics.

The Silent Guard! If one only believed half of what had been printed about them in The Cavalry Quarterly!

Very tall and thin, they had terrible countenances the colour of bleached bone, or flaking porcelain, save where too much rouge has destroyed the tints of their cheeks. Other traits hinted at an evil, dissipated overindulgence, like yellow eyes all gummy and bleary. Alone amongst the diverse mercenary troops of the Bright Republic they bore the legendary cipher “IL” upon their standards, gold brocade embroidered in turquoises. Their origins were fantastical. In pagan mythology, they were members of a supernatural race twisted and corrupted by the cruel princes of Xirnium before the Bright Age. Originally they may have been creatures of elfish-kind, though they were darker than pitch and not fair, unlike the great antagonists of the Närväryners. After falling under the power of the princes of Xirnium they became etiolated and pale, with alabaster skin and hair as white as soft new snow.

At the apex of their sway over the cannon-torn battlefields of Europe, their swordsmanship was said to match that of a first-age Mornahossë captain and their cunning abilities at in-fighting were reputed to exceed those of the secretive Exitialis Vindictae. Any one of them was rated a match for ten ordinary Shakhovskoy military levies. Now used only for ceremonial occasions, the Silent Guards had always been puritanical Decadents and fanatic guardians of the Elderflower Revolution. They had not been seen in this part of the world since 1803, when a three thousand strong air-landing brigade, transported by Montgolfier balloon, had assaulted the nine redoubts mounted with cannon at Vidérot.

In the centre of this splendid troop, a gentleman pivoting on his polished black cane. He wore a high-button frockcoat and oddly cut trousers, had dusted his features with powder in the hope of looking paler and therefore more interesting. In his buttonhole he wore a carnation dipped in blue paint. At his left his sister, fanatic, excitable, yet upright, in slightly more martial attire, with a modest constellation of medals and ribbons, none of which she had earned, and a sabre at her side. She shared her younger sibling’s white gloves and his small circular spectacles, wire framed, which frequently caught the light and gave either the appearance of a ventriloquist’s waxwork dummy.

It was an appropriate metaphor. The Angyâr children were the inheritors of one of the staunchest revolutionary traditions in the Eternal Republic. Their family of prosperous bourgeois and men of letters had acquired a reputation for unyielding, doctrinaire radicalism during long tenures as public prosecutors at the High Court of Revolutionary Cases Reserved.

Both were members of the Committee of Safety. They were both, also, members of the conspiracy sometimes known as the Urgent Issues Group.

And their entrance was noticed by the ambassador in Sargedain. A nobleman advanced in years and of dignified bearing, he had passed the time talking to his staff in that familiar, paternal, slightly contemptuous tone which men of his exalted social position often reserved for speaking to their subordinates in the bureaucratic hierarchy. Breaking off his conversation, he made his way towards the Silent Guard and the still purring, gleaming, chrome-coloured Silverflyte Six Model C, with its little state flags, that the Närväryners had exited and now waited patiently besides.

‘When I think of the trials of our seventeenth century fathers,’ Fréya za Naugérlam-Gildine-Angyâr was just finishing telling her brother, ‘I often fear they’d weep with shame to see some of the people we associate with, the places we frequent. Dens of reactionary degeneracy.’

‘I thought Snefaldians no longer bowed before a theocrat, though. Doesn’t an elected assembly hold power now?’ whispered Ansgar za Vorämpäl-Angyâr.

The sister frowned.

‘I know that! That’s not what I meant at all,’ explained the lady. ‘Isn’t it good to be in a decent, honest, upright parliamentary republic for a change!’

It was with a sense of wry humour that the arrival of the Xirniumites was regarded by the Snefaldians, being the third delegation that day to arrive by automobile. It was certain to be running through the minds of any Sargedainer who had seen the vehicles themselves that someone must be very important to be allowed to break the law like that. Cars had been illegal in Sargedain for the past ten years; ostensibly to keep the city cleaner, nicer, and with a more "Snefaldian atmosphere;" the stench of horseshit in the morning and mid-afternoon was still the main complaint of foreign visitors to the capital.

It was generally accepted, though, that foreigners and governments officials needed a quick way to escape the capital in the case of things going sour, so the occasional state procession by car was tolerated, and in the case of the Xirniumites cavalcade, enjoyed by the general mass of people.

Disembarking at the same instance from a coach was an elderly woman of medium build, slightly hunched, her graying hair pulled up impressively and tied with ribbons. Leaning forward on a silver-capped mahogany cane, she regarded the ostentatious entrance with something of a raised eye. The cane was the most interesting part, a tribute to the fanatical perfection of the Mavátêisnáya silverworkers- thin rings of undulating argent spun from the narrow end, intertwining and running to the top, the handle curving to fit a crimson-gloved hand.

A young equerry ran up and bowed at the waist. "Madame Minister, good evening. The Chan-"

"Who are those guests?" she cut him off, pointing with a slender, red finger toward the doll-like soldiers and their charges.

"The delegation from the Eternal Republic of Xirnium, Madade Minister."

She had already begun walking as she spoke. "Introduce me."

The equerry, quivering perceptibly under the watchful eye of the Silent Guards, gave a low sweeping bow to the foreigners and spoke in his most officious voice: "Your Excellencies, the Honored First Minister of War, Analás Ubáthavär."

* * *

"Her Excellency the High Chancellor of Aerion, Princess America Wasterin."

Anzapahhâdu Mugalłu caught the sound of the announcement of the Aerionians, and quickly shanghaied his wife from clutches of the eternally boring conversation of the Duke of Tejaara, moving to greet the new arrivals.

"Erusin!" he beamed at the ambassador. "It's been weeks. I've missed our card games at lunch."

He turned and bowed to the Princess. "It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I never had the pleasure of meeting your brother, but my predecessor did, I think, as did the Grand Librarian- he'll be disappointed to miss him."

The former Chancellor had a special place in his heart for the Aerionian government, who had been kind enough to bestow upon him the title of Royal Knight of All Aerion. He wasn't particularly interested in the knighthood of itself, but rather the feeling behind the gesture. He was wearing the emblem of the order with his court dress that evening, quite prominently at that.

"My wife, Cebrinë." he said with a gesture and she with a bow.

* * *

Vinsëłmø-Ŕymè nodded with a broad smile, waving for a servant to bring the President a drink.

"All for the benefit of visitors, Mr. President, do we place the only international airport in the cleanest city. I can't imagine what foreigners would think of the country if they arrived in our Port City and stepped in a pool of effluent as they got off the plane. Please, make yourself at home."

The former Chancellor Kellerman laughed, then gave a quick bow. "It's a pleasure to meet you, but right now I see my wife requires rescuing from a teetotaling priest who is bent on pouring the Good Word into her ear."

the Provost returned his attention to the Kelsskian official.

"Nasty business you have over there with these corruption allegations."

"Ah, now I see. We're mostly bi- or even trilingual in Snefaldia, but not Greek or Latin I'm afraid." he chuckled. "I speak English, Bagura, and Sringi, and I can also understand some Polish. I'm afraid I'm at a loss when it comes to the roman tongue."

He motioned to an equerry for another drink, and adjusted his tie as Gaius spoke.

"How do you mean, under wraps? We're quite settled, really, this administration is a sort of continuation of the previous one. Snefaldian politics are really quite byzantine. I will have my office contact your hotel in the morning to set up the necessary papers, and we can go from there."

He handed the diplomat a business card, neatly embossed with "Jan Smyczek, Foreign Minister."

"Now, I confess I haven't heard much about your nation. Perhaps you can tell me a bit more?"

Gaius smiled and nodded. "Ah! Byzantine! Our government is also quite Byzantine considering our close relationship with them since the collapse of the Western Empire and the Great Schism." He remarked. "I mainly meant him getting settled and things like that... It is generally Rathani policy to wait a few months after a leader takes power before we start dealing with him or her, it is considered polite in Rathani society to not dump things on someone as soon as he or she comes into a position." He added. "I shall pass the papers along to my superior of superiors... The Minister himself... I am sure he will be interested."

"As far as languages, most Rathani people know other languages, mostly English, Italian, and Arabic, but only Latin and Greek are part of basic schooling." He remarked.

"Ah, history of Rathanan... Where to start?" Gaius said with a laugh. "Well, in a brief overview, the area was first settled by escaped Helots from Sparta early in Greek history. We were mostly ignored until the Peloponnesian War when we joined the Peloponnesian League with Sparta due to Athens' poor track record of bullying its allies." He began as he took a sip of wine. "Then we were conquered by Alexander the Great, took part in his wars... Then the Romans conquered us during the Second Macedonian War to create a buffer province between them and the Macedonians." He continued as he thought about it. "We remained a part of the Roman Empire for centuries until the rule of Julian the Apostate... Julian attempted to overturn the Christian Roman World and Rathanan was extremely resistant to this as it had a heavy Christian population." He stated. "So, the governor, now called Saint Alexander..." He began but leaned over and whispered "I forget his full name at the time... Everyone just calls him Saint Alexander.... Anyway, he lead a revolution with his legions and Rathanan declared its independence from Rome." He stated.

"After that we expanded a bit, aided Byzantium against the Turks during the Crusades, went to war with the Roman Catholic nations several times, but then became more a neutral state starting at about the 19th century." He continued. "So, that's a brief history of Rathanan." He added with a smile. "Currently, we try to remain fairly true to our roots... The only difference is we recently established a Senate who co-rules with Holy Emperor Tiberius Lucilius Severus, an effort of the Holy Emperor to give the populace more of a say in government."

"What is your nation's story?"

"Yes, indeed... oh dear," groaned Drapeau. "I knew it was a scam. Those Conservatives will just stop at nothing to bring down an opponent. It's a sad commentary on our country, really, that we've descended into gutter politics occasionally verging into outright violence."

"But, my friends, You know the scary thing?" Drapeau said conspirationally, "with both me and Gautain out of the country, Deputy Prime Minister Joshua Anger is in charge..." He smiled and gave a short laugh. "Do tell him how apolitical I'm being."

"Yes, indeed... oh dear," groaned Drapeau. "I knew it was a scam. Those Conservatives will just stop at nothing to bring down an opponent. It's a sad commentary on our country, really, that we've descended into gutter politics occasionally verging into outright violence."

"But, my friends, You know the scary thing?" Drapeau said conspirationally, "with both me and Gautain out of the country, Deputy Prime Minister Joshua Anger is in charge..." He smiled and gave a short laugh. "Do tell him how apolitical I'm being."

The Provost pinched the end of his beard and chuckled. "This is the worst sort of business, I've decided, and I wonder why any of us are in politics if it's not for the self-punishment. Why, just this past week in the Assembly I've had six requests from the Republican bloc to table a motion from the Nationalists requesting an immediate vote on new charters for our overseas territories, and already the Communists are alleging that the members representing Aatem Nal are conspiring with the government to re-establish religious control."

He took a drink, and grimaced.

"It's madness, I tell you. A testament to Ren Dirh's powers of persuasion that he talked me into taking the job."

Smyczek put up his hands in front of Gaius in mock fright. "I wouldn't dare try to explain it all in one sitting; the five regions that constitute the modern nation have histories extending back hundreds of thousands of years. Suffice to say that in 1895, the Republic of Snefaldia was established, and continued until 1963, when it collapsed under a massive famine, and was replaced by a theocracy. Last year the theocratic government relinquished power to a parliamentary government. That's where we stand today."

"This tradition- the Chancellor's Reception- is something of a misnomer, prior to the establishment of the States-Federation the Chancellors were appointed by the theocratic government, and this reception served more to introduce the new choice to the rather shadowy council of leaders and ministers in government. I rather like the change."

He adjusted the white carnation in his lapel to distract himself momentarily. Smyczek had no compunction about speaking ill of the religious leadership; he was not an adherent of Aatem Nal and was not ethnically Snefaldian, despite having been born in the country. He did have respect for what the Central Council under Reijihan Herad and Jeroen Seefeikh had accomplished... but the many Bel Ha'ad who held ideas similar to the late and not-so-dearly departed Cheshathan Manakhart were anathema to the Foreign Minister and his ideals; the September Crisis had shown the citizens of Snefaldia felt the same way.

"The regional powers rarely agreed on anything in the past." he continued. "And much as we like to say we are a federation the provincial governments are almost totally vestigial. I suppose this was the overarching goal of our political forefathers... even before the Republic."

* * *

There was a slight commotion outside as another coach was rolling up, drawn by four red-tinted horses. The carriage itself was entirely black, embellished with bronze adornments showing slight tanish. Crimson velvet drapes and curtains hung, obscuring view into the coach.

The coach itself was flanked by four horsemen, each in a different livery and bearing a different weapon. Specifically, they were the commanders of the four armed units under the control of Aatem Nal, the remnants of the days that the faith had commanded kings and sovereigns and defended itself from attack. Now entirely ceremonial, they were nonetheless retained by the Tuhran Bel and the Grand Librarian as a defense force and personal bodyguard- still trained in combat and used for the defense of vital people and places.

On the forward left, in a green and white riding coat embellished with shining silver buttons was the Grand Commander of the Faithful Dragon Cavalry, a tall shako topping his black hair. He carried the straight sword of the Dragoons naked and held upright. Clean-shaven by tradition, a swirling tattoo dominated the left side of his face surrounding his eye, a traditional image that symbolised clear sight. Opposite on the right in a red-and-gold zupan was a soldier bearing a large silver mace, sporting a huge and unruly beard, a tall fur cap and a frightening glare. Perhaps appropriately titled, this was the Grand-Captain of the Fierce Defenders, the commander of what had originally been a nomadic group of warriors converted to Aatem Nal and become the defenders of the Sersarda library.

In the rear, astride a white charger and outfitted in a black cloak and tightly-wrapped chaperon, face obscured by a white mask, was the representative of the Night Hawk Guard of the Oracle Chamber, one of the most enigmatic of Aatem Nal's defenders. The Night Hawks were the defenders of the Oracle Chamber, the central ritual building in the Grand Library Complex, and were rarely seen in public except for these events. Across from him was a tall, fair-featured man with flowing blond hair and silver armor, bow across his back and a curving blade at his side. This was the captain of the Forest Guard, the farthest-flung in origin from the first three. The Guard were presumed the oldest of the four (largely because the Night Hawks were so secretive), and had the distinction of being the first of the military units of the Great King of Têisnáya to convert to Aatem Nal and support the famous Illionás Quèstayán in his reformation of Neer Dal.

The four representatives of the units were only called upon to honor a specially honored person in Aatem Nal; usually Masters of Aatem Nal or Professors of the Faith. The Grand Librarian himself was not of high enough rank to arrive in state with them in attendance.

From the carriage emerged the object of reverence; and ancient and withered-looking figure of a man, swathed in the ornate embroidered robes of the priests of Aatem Nal. He had a distinctly thin and angular look to his face, with deep blue eyes, and long fingers. Each step he took down from the coach was slow and determined, and he was careful to ensure the black and gold brocade of his official robes remained in perfect alignment.

The captain of the Fierce Defenders raised a large brass gong and rang it with his mace, and shouted.

"Behold the Master!"

Anyone who was a member of Aatem Nal in attendance bowed low at the waist if they could, clasping their hands in front of their heads and making methodical gestures, what would be recognized at the 15th Motion, the Request for Blessing. This was the proper greeting for a Master of Aatem Nal arriving in official state.

The elderly man was Jeroen Seefeikh, the oldest living member of the Tuhran Bel and the longest-serving member of the administration of Aatem Nal. He also had the distinction of being the only Master of Aatem Nal alive; Reijihan Herad had died last year and Ta'us Ash`an the year before. He had been given the rank of Master by the Bel after the September Crisis had ended on his 90th birthday. Behind him emerged two others similarly outfitted figures; the two Professors of the Faith of Aatem Nal, Amatas a Quèstayán and Tawagalawa Piyashshili.

Turning to his companions, the Master smiled. "How far we have all come, when we were young we performed the 15th Motion in 1945 when Master Killike came up from Sargedain."

Piyashili chuckled. "Holbrook would have an aneurysm if he saw the spectacle. Let us go bid him good evening."

With that, they moved in state toward the house.

"Oh, no. Leadership is never easy. When I told people that I was going to be a more activist kind of President, they told me I was nuts. I'm supposed to just host banquets, grin at visiting diplomats, give out prizes and awards, and every time there's a new session of Parliament, read speeches the government writes for me. And for a while I thought I would like to just do that, too."

"But what on earth is the point of spending all that money to hold an election for this post just for the guy who wins to do nothing for five years, then run again, do nothing for another five, and then get a pathetic little pension cheque and have people call you "The Right Honourable" for the rest of your life? We need a balance of power in our system; the Prime Minister alone is just too powerful - especially if he has a majority. That's what I think, anyway."

"..It's interesting, this origins in theocracy you have. In Kelssek, we are very strictly secular, almost militantly so. Yet this is not similar to the other kinds of religion, which want you to worship and submit yourself to gods, at least from what I know. Still, is the change to democracy widely supported?"

The entrance of three splendidly arrayed Aatem Nal clerics captivated Princess Airgiarn's attention. Many if not all of the assembled Snefaldians bowed deeply to them and though it would have been considered in poor taste in Urgench she curtsied deeply to them herself. Her dark grey Tatung dress billowed all around her giving her the appearance of a beautiful rusalka or wood nymph nestled in the flower of an Iris.

Noticing that the clerics were making their way towards Mr. Holbrook, with whom she was talking, Airgiarn reached into her Kurish, the ceremonial purse which hung on a rhodium and jet chain at her waste, the symbol of her rank in the principality of Koko Nor and retrieved her ceremonial fan and a small black capsule which she placed between her front teeth and bit down upon it. Suddenly she was enveloped in a cloud of perfumes, Malabathrum, Bulgar Rose and a mild narcotic from northern Siberia called Bilqin, the effect was noticeable. her skin glowed more than usual and her eyes were dark and glistening like black cabochons.

Her nerves jangled as the clerics approached her new acquaintance. She wondered if these powerful and wise looking men would stop to talk to her and was uncharacteristically self conscious feeling. Her father's recent speech to the Council of Khans at a recent grand conclave of the Imperial Diet in which he excoriated on the topic of Muslim holy men seeking refuge in the Empire of Urgench from the Tripartite Sultanate of Africa suddenly filled Airgiarn's mind. She felt more contempt for her father than ever in that moment and felt more decided than ever not to follow in his footsteps when she finally came to the throne of Koko Nor...

* * *

Kozminsky had bowed his head to the Master and his companions also, but his first concern upon their entry to the room was for Airgiarn. She was young and impressionable and had no real understanding of the mission the Empire had sent her on.

Kozminsky made his apologies to the minister for Trade and made his way across the room in order to observe his mistress. Ringing in his ears were the instructions of the Chief Secretary to the Grand Chancellor of the Empire; " His Excellency the G.C. desires the Empire to make good friends abroad, Kozminsky, but he does not wish to strengthen the position of small autonomous states like Koko Nor. The Crown Princess must do her job well, Kozminsky, but not too well and she must remember that she is merely a conduit of the policy of his Divine Majesty's government. You will be held responsible if she does anything which would tend to show the G.C. in a poor light. His decisions are under greater than normal scrutiny these days and his enemies will jump at the opportunity to magnify any example of what they believe to be poor judgement. "

Kozminsky knew that Airgiarn's appointment was both a possible weakness in Tamerlane's policy and a possible strength also. His personal mission was to see to it that both Airgiarn and Tamerlane looked competent back home in Urgench.

"Oh, no. Leadership is never easy. When I told people that I was going to be a more activist kind of President, they told me I was nuts. I'm supposed to just host banquets, grin at visiting diplomats, give out prizes and awards, and every time there's a new session of Parliament, read speeches the government writes for me. And for a while I thought I would like to just do that, too."

"But what on earth is the point of spending all that money to hold an election for this post just for the guy who wins to do nothing for five years, then run again, do nothing for another five, and then get a pathetic little pension cheque and have people call you "The Right Honourable" for the rest of your life? We need a balance of power in our system; the Prime Minister alone is just too powerful - especially if he has a majority. That's what I think, anyway."

"..It's interesting, this origins in theocracy you have. In Kelssek, we are very strictly secular, almost militantly so. Yet this is not similar to the other kinds of religion, which want you to worship and submit yourself to gods, at least from what I know. Still, is the change to democracy widely supported?"

"The power of tradition is great. The government is filled with pointless sinecures and vestigial titles that have long stopped functioning out of tradition; but we maintain them anyway."

"...Almost militantly supported." he said with a chuckle. "Our half-century of theocratic rule was also widely supported; it was established out of necessity. I was a young man when the Republic fell and the army of the Tuhran Bel marched on Sargedain- the few people who were not starving to death because of the famine welcomed them into the city with open arms, and the lame-duck remnants of the Senate were delivered up. But democratic ideals were strong- there was always the current of populism in the Bel during those years."

"I feel I must explain a bit about Aatem Nal. It's not so much a theistic religion as it is a conceptual philosophy; the object of veneration is an abstract concept of knowledge. The theistic tradition in Snefaldia is still largely at the local level; the major organized religions of the rest of the world have had little footing. There was, for a time, a Snefaldian Catholic Church that was popular, but it has hemhorraged adherents for years. I should avoid saying the Snefaldian mind is naturally opposed to such religions, but that would suppose that such a thing as a "snefaldian mind" exists. Aatem Nal's emphasis has always been on education and "truth," rather than enforcing the edicts and worship of an abstract "god." It doesn't hurt that Aatem Nal supports democracy, either."

The entrance of three splendidly arrayed Aatem Nal clerics captivated Princess Airgiarn's attention. Many if not all of the assembled Snefaldians bowed deeply to them and though it would have been considered in poor taste in Urgench she curtsied deeply to them herself. Her dark grey Tatung dress billowed all around her giving her the appearance of a beautiful rusalka or wood nymph nestled in the flower of an Iris.

Noticing that the clerics were making their way towards Mr. Holbrook, with whom she was talking, Airgiarn reached into her Kurish, the ceremonial purse which hung on a rhodium and jet chain at her waste, the symbol of her rank in the principality of Koko Nor and retrieved her ceremonial fan and a small black capsule which she placed between her front teeth and bit down upon it. Suddenly she was enveloped in a cloud of perfumes, Malabathrum, Bulgar Rose and a mild narcotic from northern Siberia called Bilqin, the effect was noticeable. her skin glowed more than usual and her eyes were dark and glistening like black cabochons.

Her nerves jangled as the clerics approached her new acquaintance. She wondered if these powerful and wise looking men would stop to talk to her and was uncharacteristically self conscious feeling. Her father's recent speech to the Council of Khans at a recent grand conclave of the Imperial Diet in which he excoriated on the topic of Muslim holy men seeking refuge in the Empire of Urgench from the Tripartite Sultanate of Africa suddenly filled Airgiarn's mind. She felt more contempt for her father than ever in that moment and felt more decided than ever not to follow in his footsteps when she finally came to the throne of Koko Nor...

The Imperial Prince regarded the showy entrance of Master Seefeikh with a certain measure of disdain; the old royal tendencies of primacy and contempt for non-Bajeong people were rejuvenated when the Sringi- "Conquering Bastards" in early slang- paraded their cultural dominance around.

Holbrook was frowning as well. He leaned in to the Prince and whispered.

"What a damn spectacle, and what a stupid use of the Quartered Honors on that old vulture." Sibeoci's lip curled in amusement.

The "Quartered Honors" was the informal term for the special guard of the four captains, the long form of which was the "Great Escort of the Four Honor Guards," hence the "quarter." Despite the magnificent spectacle of color and ceremony, it was still dreadfully pompous and old-fashioned.

The Grand Librarian smiled to the Princess. "Princess, you're seeing a dying tradition entering, I think. That brand of procession is infrequently used these days and is considered quite a special sight when the four captains come out to escort a member of the faith."

The spheres of Aatem Nal and the government still intertwined quite securely; The Lord High Chancellor heard the gong and the shout of the Grand-Captain and almost died on the spot. Dirh had wanted this reception to be a symbol of the progression of the country and government, the shift away from religious rule and northern domination; a jewel in the crown of unified Snefaldia.

I will strangle the man who thought it was a good idea to arrive in such a state. he thought angrily.

Smyczek put up his hands in front of Gaius in mock fright. "I wouldn't dare try to explain it all in one sitting; the five regions that constitute the modern nation have histories extending back hundreds of thousands of years. Suffice to say that in 1895, the Republic of Snefaldia was established, and continued until 1963, when it collapsed under a massive famine, and was replaced by a theocracy. Last year the theocratic government relinquished power to a parliamentary government. That's where we stand today."

"This tradition- the Chancellor's Reception- is something of a misnomer, prior to the establishment of the States-Federation the Chancellors were appointed by the theocratic government, and this reception served more to introduce the new choice to the rather shadowy council of leaders and ministers in government. I rather like the change."

He adjusted the white carnation in his lapel to distract himself momentarily. Smyczek had no compunction about speaking ill of the religious leadership; he was not an adherent of Aatem Nal and was not ethnically Snefaldian, despite having been born in the country. He did have respect for what the Central Council under Reijihan Herad and Jeroen Seefeikh had accomplished... but the many Bel Ha'ad who held ideas similar to the late and not-so-dearly departed Cheshathan Manakhart were anathema to the Foreign Minister and his ideals; the September Crisis had shown the citizens of Snefaldia felt the same way.

"The regional powers rarely agreed on anything in the past." he continued. "And much as we like to say we are a federation the provincial governments are almost totally vestigial. I suppose this was the overarching goal of our political forefathers... even before the Republic."

Gaius nodded and smiled as he listened to Smyczek. "Rathanan's government, as I said, is undergoing changes... Change is inevitable for every country I suppose." He said. "For our entire existence as an independent nation, we were ruled totally by the Holy Emperors, for better or for worse." He explained. "Holy Emperor Severus initiated Constitutional reforms that created a legislative body, our Senate, and allocated funds to build a legislative building... The Senate chamber is totally finished, but other areas are still under construction... So the first Holy Imperial Senate is in full swing." He remarked. "Obviously, the creation of the Senate has diminished the power of the Holy Emperor... He works more like the president of other Republics now, only he is appointed by the church, rather than directly voted upon by the people like the Senate, and he is appointed for life, unless the Church denounces him and nullifies his legitimacy." He added. "So far, the Holy Emperor and the Holy Imperial Senate have worked quite well with each other and there are enough checks and balances on either side that will help ensure the continued equilibrium between the two."

Gaius stopped speaking and looked at Smyczek for a minute. "But I am rambling again... Must be this delicious wine." He said with a laugh as he took another sip.

"Speaking of which, Minister Lepidus has given me clearance to offer the Chancellor an invitation to our Christmas Festival in Saint Alexander City as one of the Holy Emperor's guests." He said as he took an envelope out of his coat pocket. "It's really rather enjoyable and highly steeped in tradition... It has remained relatively unchanged since Saint Alexander arranged for the first one." He added. "Great wine, lots of free food, live musical performances, dancing, and the like... The only thing is, it starts with an opening service in the Cathedral of Saint Alexander, I don't know what the Chancellor's views on Eastern, specifically Rathani, Orthodox are, but the offer is extended all the same." He added.

The Imperial Prince regarded the showy entrance of Master Seefeikh with a certain measure of disdain; the old royal tendencies of primacy and contempt for non-Bajeong people were rejuvenated when the Sringi- "Conquering Bastards" in early slang- paraded their cultural dominance around.

Holbrook was frowning as well. He leaned in to the Prince and whispered.

"What a damn spectacle, and what a stupid use of the Quartered Honors on that old vulture." Sibeoci's lip curled in amusement.

The "Quartered Honors" was the informal term for the special guard of the four captains, the long form of which was the "Great Escort of the Four Honor Guards," hence the "quarter." Despite the magnificent spectacle of color and ceremony, it was still dreadfully pompous and old-fashioned.

The Grand Librarian smiled to the Princess. "Princess, you're seeing a dying tradition entering, I think. That brand of procession is infrequently used these days and is considered quite a special sight when the four captains come out to escort a member of the faith."

The spheres of Aatem Nal and the government still intertwined quite securely; The Lord High Chancellor heard the gong and the shout of the Grand-Captain and almost died on the spot. Dirh had wanted this reception to be a symbol of the progression of the country and government, the shift away from religious rule and northern domination; a jewel in the crown of unified Snefaldia.

"I will strangle the man who thought it was a good idea to arrive in such a state." he thought angrily.



" It seems so little by way of ceremonial to me your Excellency. It takes ten days of ceremony and pageantry preceded by two weeks of banqueting for his Divine Majesty to open the Imperial Diet, and that is the most truncated of all the high ceremonies of the state calender. I have been accompanied by a single attendant this evening but at court in Urgench I would be surrounded by ladies in waiting and high officials of the principality of Koko Nor. It would be considered very poor manners for even a relatively low ranking bureaucrat to go anywhere without a bevy of servants and lackeys.

Frankly your Excellency it is refreshing to be so unaccompanied and to be able to interact so freely here. I imagine that Snefaldian society is currently quite sensitive to such shows of deference and customary show, especially so since Snefaldia seems so modern and forward thinking. The Sublime Khanate is swathed in formality and ancient practice like a vast blanket which disguises its steely, hard-nosed character.

Does your Excellency think I might be introduced to the Master and the Professors ? I am so anxious to better understand your nation's culture. "

Airgiarn smiled her sincerest smile at the Imperial Prince and sipped her champagne. She was terrible glad of the company of this reassuring old man.

"I have been to Serasarda, but if one is to get the true scope of Aatem Nal and education in our country you should visit the Korsahad Library and a village Archive. I am very proud to be an adherent of Aatem Nal; we are not so much a religion as a grand philosophy built on books. After the Opening Ceremony and rituals in the Grand Basin there is traditionally a reception at the Sargedain Library; the Chief Librarian would be delighted to give you a tour and talk educational exchange I'm sure."

A pleased grin creased Halyk's face. "That would be a great honor indeed."

Garturban smiled as well. "Educational exchange would be a great thing to discuss. That would go along well with the other ties we'd like to establish and strengthen. We've never thought that our base of knowledge was the only one worth studying, and we're really curious to see what other peoples think."

The spheres of Aatem Nal and the government still intertwined quite securely; The Lord High Chancellor heard the gong and the shout of the Grand-Captain and almost died on the spot. Dirh had wanted this reception to be a symbol of the progression of the country and government, the shift away from religious rule and northern domination; a jewel in the crown of unified Snefaldia.

I will strangle the man who thought it was a good idea to arrive in such a state. he thought angrily.

At the rather dramatic entrance, Garturban gave Dirh a sympathetic smile. "I see that the leaders of your church can be as dramatic as ours back home can be," she whispered so that no one other than their small group could hear. "We only had to give ours a chunk of land to get them out of our hair for the most part," she whispered with a slight smile.

"If you'll forgive the generalisation, that is a far better thing to believe in than some of the other religions you mentioned. A religion of knowledge, now that is something with great worth.

We take education and learning very seriously in Kelssek, of course. When I get back, how would you like it if I talked to some of my contacts in our universities to arrange some scholarships and exchange programs?"

Smyczek pocketed the paper and smiled. "Certainly, we will send someone- I can't say with any honesty that the Lord Chancellor will be able to attend; heads of state have rather busy schedules and we can't say what will come up; but I can guarantee you Snefaldia will send a representative. WE are absolutely delighted to begin relations with new nations; it was only two decades ago, really, that we opened our borders to increased diplomacy- the Bel closed the nation to the outside world in 1963 to combat the social unrest caused by the Great Famine and collapse of the Republic."

The Foreign Minister started, and reached into his coat pocket for something he remembered he had. Proffering a small business card to the Rathani diplomat, he gave a chuckle.

"Part of the government's policy is to work with Aatem Nal in their efforts at cataloguing and archivization; their representatives would be thrilled to speak to you and learn all they can about your nation."

* * *

Sibeoci nodded, a guarded gesture to the Grand Librarian. His personal view was that such shows of ancient ritual were necessary for the preservation of the social order; to remind people of their shared identity. Even if he was not from the western tradition of Aatem Nal, he understood the mystery and ceremony behind their actions.

"I will say, Princess, that even though the Grand Librarian dislikes such traditional displays of pomp and ceremony I find them quite interesting." He said with a smile, directed more to Holbrook than the Urgenchi. The Librarian adjusted his glasses, pretending not to notice the Bajeong noble's jibe, and gestured to the Princess.

"I would be happy to introduce you. Don't feel obligated to stand on ceremony, either- I know Jeroen quite well and it wouldn't be proper to require a dignitary to kow-tow."

The two groups met each other, and the appopriate bows and gestures were exchanged between the Grand Librarian and the other Arsaths- Sibeoci gave a curt nod.

"Jeroen, I had no idea you were attending tonight; I would have called on the Chasseurs of the Shrine to accompany your carriage. Allow me to introduce Princess Airgiarn, the ambassador from the Empire of Urgench."

* * *

"If I can find the Minister of Education- I'm sure I heard her name called- I will suggest just such an exchange." the Chancellor announced happily, switching out his empty glass for a fresh one, and a whispered word with Mal as he saw Master Seefeikh enter with his retinue. He grinned maliciously as Garturban spoke.

"I must watch my tongue. It isn't befitting an elected head of state to speak ill of his constituents, especially not to foreign dignitaries. I will say, that Aatem Nal has been able to influence fashion in their own special way for quite a long time- just look at the workmanship on those hems! That embroidery! If I didn't know any better, I'd say Aatem Nal focused on binding wool instead of books." he said with a humourous hint in his voice. "I believe I'll wait for Andrew to pay his respects to the old statesman before I say anything. I worked for him for a short period when I was in the Foreign Ministry, and I can only be thankful Master Reijihan Herad was there to temper his personality."

* * *

The Provost nodded. "Andrew Holbrook would be most interested; the heads of the major independent universities would also be interested to hear it. We do have a rather large non-parochial system of education- it tends to get lost in the mention of the history the faith has had with our government."

Snefaldia had established modern universities in 1895 with the Republic, and the educational sphere had been dominated by these initial "State Universities" for the first twenty years of the Republic, until official toleration of Aatem Nal practices was established to utilize the vast resources of the religion to manage the state. The laws of the Centralized Mountain States under the Bel had formalized Aatem Nal's relationship with education- a degree in International Relations carried the same level of respect as the title of Inquisitor 12th Grade, and vice-versa. Most Aatem Nal pupils when travelling abroad used the standard degree form to explain their education and specialty anyway.

Royal Ambassador Erusin, and Princess Ameria Wastern had exchanged pleasantries with the chancellor, and his wife. Though Ambassador Erusin smiled at Anzapahhâdu's comments, he did not speak too much and deferred to the Princess. She had only smiled ever so slightly, ever so diplomatically throughout the greetings. She cleared her throat at the mention of her brother, "Yes, I believe my brother did meet him. Why I still do not know. Even now..." She trailed off a moment, seemingly breaking what is appropriate. She caught herself, "So how is your retirement? It seems there are many recent changes in the government of this...this nation." Luckily she is interrupted by the sudden sound of gongs. Upon the entry of the Master, Royal Ambassador Erusin looks somewhat surprised. He glances, "Is that...that..the Master!" He only murmurs. He bows as well as if he himself were a devotee of Aatem Nal but would only perform the full supplication if it were appropriate. Princess Ameria raises an somewhat eyebrow, simply glancing over to see what all the fuss is about. Her face does not change a bit, she seems thoroughly unimpressed. For the appearance of her face she could be watching bread bake. She sighs, "I need some wine." Upon returning to posture, the much older Ambassador Erusin only visibly pales and suppresses an look of embarrassment.

"Ah, yes, of course. I'm sure it will be enlightening all round. Our universities are renowned, yes, and some have very long histories, but they generally don't have that kind of depth of tradition which some of these Aatem Nal institutions have, from what I know at least. I've always thought everyone should spend some time living in a foreign country, especially when young. It opens up your perspective immensely."

" How do you do your Eminence ? " Airgiarn offers the Master her hand, " I am most gratified to meet you. I have been boring these excellent gentlemen with stories of my home land and its lack of great spiritual leaders, I am most honoured therefore to be introduced to one such as yourself. I do hope that your Eminence will find it convenient to visit us at the Embassy soon.

I was telling his Excellency Mr. Holbrook of some of the Empire's recent bibliological discoveries, I know the Empire would be deeply honoured if the Library of Serasarda would accept the gift of one or other of its treasures of literature. Our universities are embarrassed with a profusion of such documents which cannot all be studied in the detail they deserve, I think your Eminence's opinion on which of these treasures would most ornament the collection at Serasarda would be invaluable in helping decide which of them to send. "

Airgiarn had hoped that as part of the usual Imperial largess attendant upon the opening of an embassy in a foreign country that she might be able to organise something slightly more apposite in nature which would be seen as a more meaningful expression of the Empire's regard for the people of Snefaldia. She could think of one particular set of scrolls unearthed at the sight of an ancient stupa in Bactria, it was a copy of the Diamond Sutra written in Pali and Greek a relic of the greco-buddhist culture which had existed all those thousands of years ago in the eastern extremity of those lands which had been conquered by Iskander the Great.

Smyczek pocketed the paper and smiled. "Certainly, we will send someone- I can't say with any honesty that the Lord Chancellor will be able to attend; heads of state have rather busy schedules and we can't say what will come up; but I can guarantee you Snefaldia will send a representative. WE are absolutely delighted to begin relations with new nations; it was only two decades ago, really, that we opened our borders to increased diplomacy- the Bel closed the nation to the outside world in 1963 to combat the social unrest caused by the Great Famine and collapse of the Republic."

The Foreign Minister started, and reached into his coat pocket for something he remembered he had. Proffering a small business card to the Rathani diplomat, he gave a chuckle.

"Part of the government's policy is to work with Aatem Nal in their efforts at cataloguing and archivization; their representatives would be thrilled to speak to you and learn all they can about your nation."

Gaius took the business card and examined it a bit before pocketing it. "Well, you know what they say... Better late than never." He said, looking up at the Foreign Minister and smiling. "Regardless, the Holy Emperor would be delighted to host whomever you send... Just make sure whoever you send loves wine because it flows quite freely throughout Saint Alexander City during the Christmas Festival."

"I shall request that the Holy Imperial Historical and Geographical Societies get in touch with Aatem Nal... They'd be better suited to give them a better overview of our nation than I am." He remarked. "In all honesty, I slept through most of my history classes in grade school... Didn't make me too popular with my teachers, but I was young." He added with a smirk. "Besides, those Historians and Geographers like babbling about those subjects anyway, I'm sure they'd jump at the opportunity."

"If I can find the Minister of Education- I'm sure I heard her name called- I will suggest just such an exchange." the Chancellor announced happily, switching out his empty glass for a fresh one, and a whispered word with Mal as he saw Master Seefeikh enter with his retinue. He grinned maliciously as Garturban spoke.

"I must watch my tongue. It isn't befitting an elected head of state to speak ill of his constituents, especially not to foreign dignitaries. I will say, that Aatem Nal has been able to influence fashion in their own special way for quite a long time- just look at the workmanship on those hems! That embroidery! If I didn't know any better, I'd say Aatem Nal focused on binding wool instead of books." he said with a humourous hint in his voice. "I believe I'll wait for Andrew to pay his respects to the old statesman before I say anything. I worked for him for a short period when I was in the Foreign Ministry, and I can only be thankful Master Reijihan Herad was there to temper his personality."

Garturban smiled as well. "I should probably watch my tongue as well. Such things have a way of getting back to the public, and relations between our ever-sainted Church and our government are....touchy at best," she said.

At that point, one of the security people escorting her, who had had his hand to the earpiece he was wearing, discreetly leaned over and whispered something into the Vice-President's ear. She nodded, no longer smiling, and turned back to Dirh.

"I am incredibly sorry, Chancellor, but I am going to have to cut my visit short. Apparently, all hell is about to break loose (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14271045&postcount=24) back home," she said with a slightly sad expression. "Ambassador Halyk, though, can continue our discussions on educational exchange and other exchanges, I hope," she said.

OOC: Sorry for the delay and the ping-ponging; my final research paper kept me more than occupied.

"Ah, yes, of course. I'm sure it will be enlightening all round. Our universities are renowned, yes, and some have very long histories, but they generally don't have that kind of depth of tradition which some of these Aatem Nal institutions have, from what I know at least. I've always thought everyone should spend some time living in a foreign country, especially when young. It opens up your perspective immensely."

The Provost nodded his head. "The younger generations are spending more time abroad these days, we can thank membership in the United Nations for helping to open our borders and minds to other cultures. I confess I've never been abroad myself- most people my age grew up during a very tumultuous period in our history, when foreign relations were forbidden and the country very much closed."

"It's a pity, really, that the progress made during the Republic had to be turned back to deal with the crisis at home. Hundreds of thousands starved to death in the early sixties... Much more pressing than petty trade talks!" he chuckled, but only half-heartedly. "Much of Snefaldia recalls the dark days of the Great Famine, when the crops failed three years in a row thanks to a lack of flooding. Calling the return of Aatem Nal to the management of the country an "overthrow of the Republic" was a misnomer; the Republican Senate had abandoned the state and the army marched with the Tuhran Bel to distribute food to the country. It was a peaceful overthrow, as far as overthrowings go. For a moment, in September, it felt like I was a young man again."

Royal Ambassador Erusin, and Princess Ameria Wastern had exchanged pleasantries with the chancellor, and his wife. Though Ambassador Erusin smiled at Anzapahhâdu's comments, he did not speak too much and deferred to the Princess. She had only smiled ever so slightly, ever so diplomatically throughout the greetings. She cleared her throat at the mention of her brother, "Yes, I believe my brother did meet him. Why I still do not know. Even now..." She trailed off a moment, seemingly breaking what is appropriate. She caught herself, "So how is your retirement? It seems there are many recent changes in the government of this...this nation." Luckily she is interrupted by the sudden sound of gongs. Upon the entry of the Master, Royal Ambassador Erusin looks somewhat surprised. He glances, "Is that...that..the Master!" He only murmurs. He bows as well as if he himself were a devotee of Aatem Nal but would only perform the full supplication if it were appropriate. Princess Ameria raises an somewhat eyebrow, simply glancing over to see what all the fuss is about. Her face does not change a bit, she seems thoroughly unimpressed. For the appearance of her face she could be watching bread bake. She sighs, "I need some wine." Upon returning to posture, the much older Ambassador Erusin only visibly pales and suppresses an look of embarrassment.

"The workings of the Grand Library are a mystery even to me, I prefer to spend my time farming these days." Mugallu laughed, splaying his hands to show off his hoe-calluses. "My lovely wife thinks I should spend more time reading books and doing the things that retired old men normally do, but she doesn't complain when we have rice and corn on the table. And it keeps me active."

He swallowed a bit, pulling back his exuberance at the Aerionian diplomat. He was starting to babble like an old man with a story to tell, rather than a distinguished elder statesman. His wife was giving him a look, anyway.

"I'm sorry, I'm going on and on. I am quite honored to have you here, Princess, your government has given me great honor and I'm very thankful for it." He waved to a servant, who proffered a glass of deep burgundy wine.

"This," he said proudly, "is a wine made from the Prëkáŗ grape, quite famous in Dayan. This particular wine is from the Tejaaran Veldt, a vintage 1954, quite heavy and robust, slightly tannic with fruity hints and delightful honey finish."

Cebrine shook her head with a laugh. "His other hobby, Princess, is wine. He's informed me he plans to grow grapes as well as rice and corn."

" How do you do your Eminence ? " Airgiarn offers the Master her hand, " I am most gratified to meet you. I have been boring these excellent gentlemen with stories of my home land and its lack of great spiritual leaders, I am most honoured therefore to be introduced to one such as yourself. I do hope that your Eminence will find it convenient to visit us at the Embassy soon.

I was telling his Excellency Mr. Holbrook of some of the Empire's recent bibliological discoveries, I know the Empire would be deeply honoured if the Library of Serasarda would accept the gift of one or other of its treasures of literature. Our universities are embarrassed with a profusion of such documents which cannot all be studied in the detail they deserve, I think your Eminence's opinion on which of these treasures would most ornament the collection at Serasarda would be invaluable in helping decide which of them to send. "

Seefeikh gave a proper bow to the foreign royal, as did Professors behind him. "It is entirely my pleasure. The diplomatic fruits the Tuhran Bel planted have indeed borne fine fruits if we have begun relations with Urgench- oh yes, I've read quite a lot about them, Andrew." he said his nasally voice, throwing a smirk to the Grand Librarian. "I am quite certain that Aatem Nal would be greatly enriched through study of your nation; expansion of knowledge is our greatest goal."

Professor Piyashili gave a nod, removing his black gloves as he spoke. "I am sure anything your government presents us with will be worth enough; if the level of workmanship in your garb is any indicator of the wealth and culture of your state."

Unseen, Holbrook rolled his eyes.

[QUOTE=Rathanan;14268422]Gaius took the business card and examined it a bit before pocketing it. "Well, you know what they say... Better late than never." He said, looking up at the Foreign Minister and smiling. "Regardless, the Holy Emperor would be delighted to host whomever you send... Just make sure whoever you send loves wine because it flows quite freely throughout Saint Alexander City during the Christmas Festival."

"I shall request that the Holy Imperial Historical and Geographical Societies get in touch with Aatem Nal... They'd be better suited to give them a better overview of our nation than I am." He remarked. "In all honesty, I slept through most of my history classes in grade school... Didn't make me too popular with my teachers, but I was young." He added with a smirk. "Besides, those Historians and Geographers like babbling about those subjects anyway, I'm sure they'd jump at the opportunity."

"The benefit of history isn't in the recounting of dates, I think, but in the analysis of what happened and why. It's the measure of a people, what happened in their past, and you have no concept of their future without an understanding of what came before."

Garturban smiled as well. "I should probably watch my tongue as well. Such things have a way of getting back to the public, and relations between our ever-sainted Church and our government are....touchy at best," she said.

At that point, one of the security people escorting her, who had had his hand to the earpiece he was wearing, discreetly leaned over and whispered something into the Vice-President's ear. She nodded, no longer smiling, and turned back to Dirh.

"I am incredibly sorry, Chancellor, but I am going to have to cut my visit short. Apparently, all hell is about to break loose (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14271045&postcount=24) back home," she said with a slightly sad expression. "Ambassador Halyk, though, can continue our discussions on educational exchange and other exchanges, I hope," she said.

Dirh nodded, giving a bow and extending his hand. "If there is anything my government can do..." he trailed off. The help of the Snefaldian Fleet during the Poivre Atoll conflict wouldn't be forgotten. "I wish you a safe journey back home."

An aide emerged from a side room, with a sheet of paper, and quickly handed it to the Chancellor. Skimming over it, he extended his hand to the Vice President.

"Madame, before you go- A bit of advice. While the Antarctic Oasis might be a rambunctious place filled with unusual people, we do honor our treaties. Perhaps the Regional Security Council can be of some help?"

Seefeikh gave a proper bow to the foreign royal, as did Professors behind him. "It is entirely my pleasure. The diplomatic fruits the Tuhran Bel planted have indeed borne fine fruits if we have begun relations with Urgench- oh yes, I've read quite a lot about them, Andrew." he said his nasally voice, throwing a smirk to the Grand Librarian. "I am quite certain that Aatem Nal would be greatly enriched through study of your nation; expansion of knowledge is our greatest goal."

Professor Piyashili gave a nod, removing his black gloves as he spoke. "I am sure anything your government presents us with will be worth enough; if the level of workmanship in your garb is any indicator of the wealth and culture of your state."

Unseen, Holbrook rolled his eyes.


" That is praise from Caesar from persons as exquisitely arrayed as your Eminences. The silk of my gown comes from the looms of Tatung in the Sino-Mongolian province of the Empire. Its colour is called 'Hüzün' which is a Turkic word for a state of poetic melancholia, it was popular with the Persian brides of Hulagu the Ilkhan of Persia. If your Eminences think well of it I have twenty bales of it which it would be my honour to give you as gifts? It would be gravely remiss of me if i did not discharge my people's customary gifts commensurate with the opening of diplomatic relations.

Perhaps your Eminences appreciate my grey pearls, the jewels of wisdom, we have brought twenty caskets filled with pearls such as these and larger, all of them natural , they are always to be given to the most revered scholars and priests because they are imbued with such rare beauty."

Airgiarn was very pleased her garments had met with such approval, she had spent four weeks at the ateliers of Tabriz shopping for appropriately splendid things to wear in preparation for her first foreign appointment.

"Your Eminences are so magnificently enrobed yourselves, would it be possible for me to obtain such gorgeous stuffs or are they reserved for sacredotal purposes? I am certain the weavers guild of the Empire would be most fascinated to know how such clothe is achieved. They love all that is exotic and new, they must since their customers demand it."

The miniscule time delayed patch behind Airgiarn's ear suddenly released its precious perfume oil on to her skin and she was instantly enveloped in the fragrance of Golden Lotus, Osmanthus and labdanum. The patch's secondary payload of a tiny dose of Phenethylamines hightened Airgiarn's awareness and senses.

Seefeikh smiled. "The weavers and tailors of Sring Issa and Neer Dal are quite famous nationally; the traditional supplier of our garb have been the weavers of Washukanni in Sring Issa- and they will most certainly take orders; these vestments are merely constructed for us, they will create whatever you desire."

He leaned to Piyashili and spoke in his native Sringi.

<"What a country this woman is from where they give away gold and silver like common stones. And the perfumes! I saw them adorn themselves as we approached.">

Piyashili nodded with a smile. <"The degenerate nobility and their ways. What a blessing we are so enlightened here!">

Had Airgiarn noticed she would have seen the immense frown on Andrew Holbrook's face, and which he quickly replaced with a smile and broke into the conversation- in English.

"Well, gentlemen, I'm sure you have more enlightening conversations to attend to, I'm sure- the princess would be bored silly to listen to your views on ostentation and the nobility. Princess, I'd like to introduce you to a friend of mine..."

He led her away from the trinity, who now bore a rather shocked look.

"You will be more excited to speak with my friend Ta'unganbeid Ar-Ta'un- he served as part of a diplomatic mission to Taraskovya, and has just presented a paper to the Symposium of Histories' 2008 conclave in Thiestilm about early influences on Neeri culture, which I think you would find most fascinating."

He bowed, gently directed her toward an aging man puffing on a pipe and sipping a glass of brandy. In his mind, he made a mental note to recommend the Central Council make a formal review of Piyashili's contributions to the faith and whether or not he deserved his title of "Professor First Rank."

Seefeikh smiled. "The weavers and tailors of Sring Issa and Neer Dal are quite famous nationally; the traditional supplier of our garb have been the weavers of Washukanni in Sring Issa- and they will most certainly take orders; these vestments are merely constructed for us, they will create whatever you desire."

He leaned to Piyashili and spoke in his native Sringi.

<"What a country this woman is from where they give away gold and silver like common stones. And the perfumes! I saw them adorn themselves as we approached.">

Piyashili nodded with a smile. <"The degenerate nobility and their ways. What a blessing we are so enlightened here!">

Had Airgiarn noticed she would have seen the immense frown on Andrew Holbrook's face, and which he quickly replaced with a smile and broke into the conversation- in English.

"Well, gentlemen, I'm sure you have more enlightening conversations to attend to, I'm sure- the princess would be bored silly to listen to your views on ostentation and the nobility. Princess, I'd like to introduce you to a friend of mine..."

He led her away from the trinity, who now bore a rather shocked look.

"You will be more excited to speak with my friend Ta'unganbeid Ar-Ta'un- he served as part of a diplomatic mission to Taraskovya, and has just presented a paper to the Symposium of Histories' 2008 conclave in Thiestilm about early influences on Neeri culture, which I think you would find most fascinating."

He bowed, gently directed her toward an aging man puffing on a pipe and sipping a glass of brandy. In his mind, he made a mental note to recommend the Central Council make a formal review of Piyashili's contributions to the faith and whether or not he deserved his title of "Professor First Rank."


Airgiarn was slightly confused for a moment at Holbrook's sudden desire for her to speak with other guests, she hoped she had not been rude.

"Please convey my sincerest apologies to their Eminences, your Excellency. It is most unusual for me to converse with such spiritual men, doubtless I did not show them appropriate deference." She said to Holbrook, blushing.

Airgiarn now found herself introduced to the sort of man she knew well, a distracted but brilliant academic.

"How do you do Mr. Ar-Ta'un ? I am Airgiarn Arghunib, Ambassador for Urgench. His Excellency Mr. Holbrook tells me you are recently returned from presenting your work at Conclave, was it well received?"

* * *

Across the room Kozminsky had seen the exchange between Airgiarn and the Clerics. He decided that though she might be clumsy at first, her earnest charm would see her through the tough lessons a first time Ambassador must go through. He had not heard what had been said but he made sure to remember to coach Airgiarn further on the kinds of situation she would be facing here.

Dirh nodded, giving a bow and extending his hand. "If there is anything my government can do..." he trailed off. The help of the Snefaldian Fleet during the Poivre Atoll conflict wouldn't be forgotten. "I wish you a safe journey back home."

An aide emerged from a side room, with a sheet of paper, and quickly handed it to the Chancellor. Skimming over it, he extended his hand to the Vice President.

"Madame, before you go- A bit of advice. While the Antarctic Oasis might be a rambunctious place filled with unusual people, we do honor our treaties. Perhaps the Regional Security Council can be of some help?"

Garturban gave a wry smile. "We had thought of calling upon your fine region for assistance, but the entry into our region of foreign forces would probably alarm our neighbors entirely too much. However, we certainly would appreciate any other assistance you might be able to provide. We don't think that our holdings in the Oasis or the Malibu Islands will become targets for our foes...but anything is possible."