NationStates Jolt Archive

Klein, Capital city of the Principality of Sudova, 2008/11/13...

"...will NOT continue to be isolate, Minister." Dame Princepes Sarah scowled, "We sit, and watch them all-they grow, they trade, they Talk to each other."

First Minister David Westin cringed back-the Princepes was in a high dudgeon, the scar-tissue of her left (ruined) eye pulsing in the evening's firelight, the ligature marks from her coronation standing out, showing against what had, when she'd been merely Princepes in Waiting, perfectly white skin.

"Majesty, why do you assume I bring bad news?" he asked nervously, "The Commons and the Peers are agreed with your decision to open talks and full-diplomacy with the outside world, after twenty years of isolation."

She relaxed, and adjusted the collar of her blouse, "I see...excellent." she said, "I presume this debate was ethical, and not compelled by my supporters in the Merchants' sector?"

"I...well, of course it was, Majesty." Westin said, crestfallen, "Compelled, I mean..."

"Naturally." she stretched her hands, and stood, pulling her sleeves down, and buttoning her collar. "Nine days on the tree obviously didn't give me enough insight to find a way to control them." she sighed, and turned to gaze out the window at the horizon.

"You could always call it off, Majesty-not send the messages, not ask-" David began.

"No." she shook her head, as a wing-pair of F-20's, purchased before she'd been born from the Americans, passed overhead, bound for excercises along the coast. "The vision I had at my coronation, the vision on the tree, told me we MUST open ourselves to diplomats if we want to survive what's coming, at least, survive it intact."

"So...you do believe in it after all?" David asked cautiously.

she turned and looked at him with her remaining, good, eye. "Of course not, David! I didn't believe in those old stories when I was a little girl, I certainly don't believe in them now!" she sighed, "but I DO believe I can do the math. We're behind them, David, technologically, economically, industrially-and being behind the rest of the world, and blind to what they're doing? THAT leads to ruin."

"You Let the priests hang you from a tree for nine days, and gouge your left eye out with a broken root, and let it get infected, for something you don't believe in?" He was aghast.

"Of course I did. It was the only way I could get into a position to do something about the problem. The fool they'd have married me to would let things just set, until someone saw us as an easy target." she shook her head, "Not on my watch. We're behind them, but not so far we can't catch up-and we have trade-goods they'll pay for until we've matched 'em." she sighed, "Send out the call for diplomats, send someone to feel out the World Assembly while you're at it-we may well need to join that pack of liars and montebanks, pay their exhorbitant dues, and endure their endless moralistic interference sooner rather than later. If we can avoid that, I'll avoid it, but we're going to have to allow Embassies at minimum." she made a dismissive gesture, "You have my orders, for the love of our people, get to it."

"Yes, Majesty." David said, and bowed once before leaving.

After the First Minister left, she went back to her desk, opened the secret drawer, and pulled out the catalogue.

Oh, my, that's a pretty one...almost looks natural...

she paged through it, admiring cosmetic glass eyes, the sort sold to normal folk who'd lost one from disease or misfortune.

Maybe blue?

OOC: This sounds a lot like a female equivalent of Odin/Woden! I'm interested, where's this thread going?

OOC: I like the intro you did. Anyhow, can we send a response asking for trade?

OOC: This sounds a lot like a female equivalent of Odin/Woden! I'm interested, where's this thread going?

OOC: I decided that, instead of just "Hey, Open for Embassies!!" I'd kind of 'help it along' with some backstory-type stuff, dropped hints, and maybe a try at a 'story hook'...
And the similarity? it's intentional. Modern Tech setting, though, with a "Maybe" on supernatural/paranormal influences-depending on how (and in which direction) it goes.

TO: Government of Sudova
FROM: The Vamperial Colony of Union, Vamperial High King Vamp.

One of our diplomats in the WA HQ has informed us about your nation coming out of isolation. I have a purposal that I wish to make at this time. The homeland, The Vamperial Kingdom of Lynion, is engaging in a civil war that we're going to finish quickly. I do not request military support as we're starting to make a turn in this forsaken war. I do however wish to put forward a purposal.

If you can, we would like to buy additional steel, lead, iron and explosivies to help us end our civil war. In return, we'll be willing to give you military support or we can help train your forces should you require. If you're willing to take part in this deal, please respond and I'll see what I can do.

ooc i wouldn'tworry about the World Assembly ,as a lot of RPers don't see it having anything to do with their RPing

Klein, Princepes Public residence offices, 2008/11/15...

"David, what do the Ravens say about this Vamperial Kingdom of Lynion?" Sarah asked quietly.

The First Minister cleared his throat, and looked around the table at the other cabinet ministers. "Not much, Majesty." he said, "They've been at war for some time, and it's not been going particularly well until very recently, according to sources."

"Find out." she said, "Find out everything about them before I draft a reply-and while you're at it, find out what the world market prices for Steel, Lead, raw Iron and whatever else they're offering to buy are currently...and get information on their ability to pay." she tapped her fingers in a drumbeat on the table, "And draft an answer to keep them interested-but not too interested, at least, not until you can tell me enough about them to know whether we're looking at a viable trade relationship, or just someone angling for a safe haven and bringing dangerous enemies along for the ride."

"The intent?" David asked.

"The intention, is to sell them what they want to buy, and establish a diplomatic contact that's stable." She said, "Preferably more than one."

she turned to her Justice minister. "Officer Grey, your report?"

The justice minister cleared his throat, "Incidence of property crimes in major cities is down by eighteen points this quarter..." the man droned on as Sarah mused in silence-the weekly crime statistics weren't that interesting, a foreign contact-but can we trust them? She didn't know, and she wasn't sure how well her foreign intelligence analysts, listening to signals and reports from merchants, could actually provide the Nation with an adequate picture. well, I suppose I could leave it in David's hands for the time being, but...he'll need my support if he DOES want to open trade with them-and it's my damn policy.

To the Government of Sudova

In response to your messages to the Governments of the world I would very much wish to extend the hand of friendship to you, your Government and your people.
I would ask of you that it be possible for the Duchy of Rechburg open an Embassy within your capital, that from this Embassy we can reach out with the hand of friendship through trade and common understanding. You are always more than welcome to establish an embassy in our capital Malmaison.

The merchants of Rechburg are always seeking new goods for trade as well as new markets. We as a modern nation have much to offer you by way of manafactured goods, weapons, as well as raw materials you may seek.
In return we would buy the raw materials we lack, should you possess them within you realm.

If you deem it necessary I am prepared to offer you either units of the Armed Forces of Rechburg to assist you in defending your nation, or to help you in training your armed forces.

I extend this hand of friendship in good faith. I personally wish you and your people all the joy and goodwill in your search for a place in this world.

In Highest regard

Duke Blaise

Malmaison Palace
Malmaison
Normandie
Duchy of Rechburg

OOC: Sudova: if you're going to use 'Lynion' as my contact, at least refer to it as it stated in the telegram. It is The Vamperial KINGDOM of Lynion not the Vamperial Colony of Lynion. Lynion isn't the colony its the homeland.

To: Sudova
From: The People Empire of Ralkovia, The Desk of Councilor Thomas Tabares.

Approved Under Directory 3
Communication Section
Page 4
Approved by: Her Most Holy Majesty Empress Maria of the most Holy Empire of Ralkovia


We congratulate you on your coming out of the shadows and while many nations will seek to take advantage of you. Many countries will try to steal your natural resources. Ralkovia as a member of the Grand Imperial Alliance can not allow small nations like yourself to be conquered by larger nations especially communist ones.

Ralkovia would like to offer you a chance to join the protective blanket of RAPS(Ralkovian Allied Protectorate System) Not only would you receive economic compensation and the most advanced weapons of war to boost your military but you would have large influence.

Ralkovian Protectorate States do not have any obligations to her highness(You get to keep your government exactly how it is) except for the full use of airports and sea ports as well as any government owned land that is not wanted(Wasteland, desert, etc.) and .2% of taxes during war.

The benefits of being RAPS are numerous
Sudova and her majesty will receive:

Military Help in any wars(even as the aggressor)
Economic Help
Medical Aid Help
Ralkovian Products
Trading Contacts
Power and Influence
Ralkovian Manufacturing Facilities and Technology


What Ralkovia receives:
A small parcel of land(government chooses the size)
Use of Sea Ports(for free)
Use of Air Ports(for free)
Ability to build factories
.2% of taxes if Sudova in a war*

*This does not count if Sudova comes under attack, only if it is attacking and requires ralkovian assistance.


Ralkovia can help Sudova and give it the best weapons in the world for cheap, it can stabilize currency, and strengthen the economy if Sudova needs it. Joining RAPS is the best thing Sudova can do for itself.

Klein, Princepes personal quarters, 1930 Hours, 2008/11/16...

"...beg you to reconsider, Majesty-by inviting the world in, you're inviting the world in. Consider what they did to poor South Vietnam." Ector Brandtley insisted, "Or Rhodesia..."

Sarah turned and looked at her father's former foreign minister. "Ector, dear, faithful, Ector, those were colonies, infected with republican sentiments and divided by definition within themselves..." she carefully adjusted her cloak, "WE have thousands of years of history-"

"History!" the old man snorted, "Do you think Persia didn't? History shows us that weakness in technical power, and wealth in resources, only leads to eventual conquest by those who've kept up, or forged ahead!" he scoffed, "We're behind them-thirty years at minimum."

She sighed, and eyed her old tutor, "Ector, we must forge ahead-and that means new information, new technologies, and an end to isolationism." she said, "You're right-nations that don't keep step with the world end up trampled by it." she asserted.

"You'll end up like your grandfather with that talk." Ector said, "Assassinated and replaced."

"Only if I fail. Grandfather made the mistake of assuming the Americans would always be on our side...I'm not so gullible as that." Sarah carefully turned. "How do I look?"

Ector tilted his head, "Like an idealist." he said diplomatically, "I can only hope your address to the people is not interrupted by an assassin's bullet."

She reached over, and touched his ancient face. "Thank you...I think."

"The glass eye looks fake, dreadful even. YOu should be more traditional-be proud of your scars." he mumbled, "there's still a LOT of traditionalists out there-and it would remind the rest that you aren't selling our identity."

"I'll take that under advisement on my way to address the Assembly and the Peers." she promised, with a smile.

"Do that... remember, Alois lost the support of the Peers and with 'em, the Commoners before he was cut down." Ector told her, "Don't make his mistake."

A polite knock on the chamber door interrupted whatever Sarah was going to tell the old man. "Who is it?" she called out.

"The First Minister wishes to enter Her Majesty's presence." was the reply.

"Come in, David." Sarah called out, "I'm almost ready."

David Westin entered the chamber dressed for the occasion, fur-lined cape and silk suit impeccably trimmed. "Majesty, have you decided on the latest offers yet?" he asked.

Sarah frowned, "David!"

He stopped. "Oh... Um, a word to the wise, Majesty-the people expect the Princepes to have a certain... look?" he gestured at his own left eye.

"You're serious?" Sarah asked.

"Quite. The falsi-oh has got to go, if you're worried about disgusting foreigners, an eye-patch would probably be suitable, like your Grandfather wore." He said firmly, "The prosthetic just doesn't suit your office."

she looked from Ector to David, and back again. "Okay...fine. I get it. Lose the eye...got it." with that, she reached up, and carefully worked the coloured glass object out of the empty socket. "Better?" she asked, unbuttoning the collar to reveal the rope-scars.

"Much." Ector said, "and remember-your Grandfather's mistake."

She sighed petulantly, and carefully placed the glass object on the dressing table. "I will... you realize, this cuts down on my chances of producing an heir-what kind of man would-"

"A Sudovan man." Ector stressed, "Not some foreigner."

Outside

"So, you've read and considered all three offers?" David asked.

Sarah nodded, "I have, and I suspect my only serious answer will lie in meeting with their representatives myself. Arrange to invite them to the Capital-our intelligence on these nations is virtually nonexistent and I need to get a measure of what they think of themselves-and I can't do that reading dry telexes and these shoddy files."

"They'll want ambassadors or delegations in turn, Majesty..." He said.

"Select men and women of good character, then. People who know how to make sharp deals, and know when to shut up." she told him, "Patriots and Loyal men, but intelligent and responsible enough to act on their own without someone else to mind them."

"I'll get right on it." David promised, "AFTER your address tonight."

"Very good, First Minister." Sarah said, "You know, we should probably see to having this thing altered to fit the spear..." she awkwardly slid the ceremonial spear into a space between the seats of the royal limousine.

"you could always do what your father did, and just take the Helicopter..." he said.

"My father's helicopter fell out of the sky with a broken rotor from overuse." Sarah reminded him, "I would as soon NOT come falling down on some hapless commoner's house out of the clear blue sky for emulating daddy's habits."

(I'm guessing I'm invited to your country, if not ignore this post)


Ezekial Wilhelm entered the Salkot SuperMach Jet. The jet used the latest in Ralkovian anti-matter, anti-heat and crack, and anti-gforce technology. The jet could reach speeds of mach 6 for long durations using its anti-matter engines. Tungsten and Necklogen plates were able to withstand the massive heat created by the speed, and its 4 anti-matter engines let the aircraft turn, slow down, and even hover. It was the pinnacle of ralkovian aerospace technology.

Thats was why 3 of them were being flown to Sudova, the two Salkots behind Ezekial carried some of ralkovia's newest technology. The ralkovians had hoped to bring Sudova up as an ally since supporters of monarchy were beginning to be thrown out as civil wars, revolutions, and communist invasion increased in those nations. Ralkovia was now trying to protect any monarchy it could and hopefully Sudova would join RAPS so ralkovia could do all it could.

The jets sped to sudova with 14 ralkovians on board along with 8 death guard. Finally as the jets neared the country they began to slow down and waited asking permission to land.

767 AWACS Jenna Leep 36,000 ft., Sudon Coast, Northshore airspace zone, Sudova...

"...flashing a signal on 130 Megahertz, sir, the computers won't authorize a launch." Staffer Ayn McGovern looked up at her commader.

"What kind of signal, Staff Sargeant?" Leftenant Michael Goldwyn asked.

"Um...we're looking it up, sir..." she said sheepishly, gesturing at the pile of manuals on the floor next to her station, "The system keeps overriding the arming signal, and the fighter jocks are giving all kinds of calls."

Down three positions, Corporal Levi Banner whooped. "SIR, I know what they're sending!!"

"Well...don't keep me in suspense-we've got fighter pilots out there who wanna know why they can't fox their missiles." the Leftenant said.

"They can't, sir, because it's a diplomatic Clearance."

"Dip-what??? Only the Princepes can authorize-" He stopped himself. "Shit... okay, tell Jarl flight that they are to get a visual recognition on those incoming planes, then someone, anyone, establish some damn radio contact so we can head them over to..."
He looked down, grabbed the third manual off the floor, "...to Fourteen degrees west of their current course at an altitude of 22,000 feet, that's the course heading to the old International Airport...and Johnson, send a message ahead that there's diplomats incoming...and ask why nobody bothered to brief the damn alert squadrons that we had diplomats incoming."

Loki what a clusterfuck... He sighed heavily, and, his crew now at work coordinating the "Greeting" of the incoming dignitaries with the interception squadron, he sat down, fired up his own system, and started composing a message to Headquarters outlining further necessary upgrades to the Air-arm, Including better commo gear... "Anyone figured out what their damn radios are using?" he asked.


Jarl Flight, 22 miles offshore, 33000 feet.

Ensign James Tanner's fighter was born in 1977. He'd been born in 1989. The single-engine Northrup F-20 had been purchased, and as far as anyone knew, nobody else had EVER purchased the type. Sudova had been glad to purchase Northrup's entire production run, plus two of the prototypes, and the tooling when the company had decided it had too small a market-the F-20 did not sell nearly as well as General Dynamics' F-16 had. Everyone in the Air Force knew they were flying a 'lesser' aircraft, but the sleek, supersonic, fighter-like transports he was looking at now, made that faint feeling of obselecence even more apparent.

"Those things could probably break Mach Two at half throttle." He noted out loud to his wingman, Stutz.

Stutz' voice crackled in his helmet, "Half throttle? It looks to me like they're running an engine or two short-at least, on the passive infrared. I'd say they're probably getting irritated having to slow down for us... the AWACS got Commo with 'em yet?"

Tanner reached over, and turned the dial to the AWACS channel. "Jarl Four to Big Ears, We got a channel to talk to these guys yet? Over." he asked.

"Working on it, Jarl Four, they've got some kind of funky encryption going, and the computers are taking their bloody time sorting through it, Over." was the response.

Tanner sighed, and looked ahead. Jarl Lead and Jarl Two were now 'wing-waggling' and flying gear-down in, what he presumed, was the eyeball-view of the fast jet transports.

He switched back over to the Squadron freq, Maybe they recognize the international "Follow me" signal...I hope.

Captain Hans Kruger was captain of the Diplomatic flight crew on board the Ducal 737, his aircraft had been on the Sudova border for sometime, he adopted a circular flight path as he was radioing Sudova air tarffic control

"....For godsake Sudova are there. This is rechburg diplomatic flight waiting for clearance and flight path."

He leaned over to Charles his co-pilot
"Do you think they have radio's here'
His co-pilot was busy looking between the radar and out the window,
"For gods sake Charles what are you looking for?" he asked.

Charles replied with a smile
"ohh I am wandering if they have camel or albatross type fighters, if they do would they show up on the radar."

"Oh for christsake, its your turn to try and raise someone" said Hans as he took the airphones off.

As he left his seat to go and talk with the ambassador he could hear his co- pilot

"This is Rechurg Diplomatic Flight... are there Sudova".

Northwestern Air Defense Command, Eisen Squadron Lead...

"...visual on it-looks like a seven-three-seven, ADC, you got a read on their broadcast, Over?" Leftenant Anne Fleigmaus asked.

"Roger, switch to Commercial band Fifteen, Eisen Lead, Switch your transciever to fifteen, Over."

"Understood, ADC."

She switched the cockpit radio to the band, and heard,

"This is Rechurg Diplomatic Flight... are there Sudova".

"Rechburg Diplomatic Flight, this is Sudova Squadron Eisen, Eisen Lead speaking, we have you on visual, adjust your course One-three-one degrees south, and come down to twenty-two thousand. Sorry about the mixup, guys, the orders were late or we would have been here sooner, Over."

She signalled her wingman to assume a forward escort position, and waited for the Three-Seven's flight engineer or pilot to get over their relief.

"Rechburg Diplomatic Flight, Ahead of you, at two-o'clock, you should see a single-engine fighter air-craft falling into formation-that's your pole-star, follow Eisen Two at three-fifty, stay in the corridor he indicates-this area is actively protected by anti-air missiles, please stay in the 'safe corridor' for your own good health, Over."

Klein City Aerodrome, "international terminal"...

Sarah walked through the recently-reconditioned international terminal. well, at least it's clean... The "international Airport" had been built in the seventies, during her Grandfather's reign, a sign of his ambition and his optimism, it had been virtually abandoned for twenty years after his death-the carpeting allowed to mold and the plastered walls to decay.

The thirteen months (so far) of her reign had seen this place cleaned up, the wiring brought up to code, the plumbing completely redone-and the interior stripped, scrubbed, repaired, and mostly-replaced.

A group of Journos stood in a muddle just ahead of her, held back by velvet ropes and armed security soldiers. She stepped through the doorway of the old TWA offices, and out onto the dais.

"Okay, I'm ready to speak." she said into the microphone.

The Journos stopped their idle speculating and grumbling muttering.

"Tonight, I declare this, the International Terminal of the Royal Aerodrome, in the City of Klein, open. I have renamed it in honour of my Grandfather, Alois, who died right in this room of a sniper's bullet." she clutched the podium with both hands, "He was a man ahead of his times, but he made the mistake of trusting a Great Power over and above his own people-this cost him his life. I will not make the same mistakes he made, nor the equally foolish mistake my own Father, Jakob, made in isolating our nation from the rest of the earth-and it WAS a mistake. So, this being such a grand occasion, I have decided to make a second announcement."

The Journos waited-most of them already knew what her next words would be-Sarah made no secret of her interest in foreign things, even as second-in-waiting behind her brother Adric, who died during his coronation of aesphyxia.

"We have determined to open diplomatic talks, with an interest in exchange of Embassy, with the world. It is time that we ended our isolation and entered the modern world."

She smiled, "THank you, now, I have been informed that we may have diplomatic visitors tonight-as such, I would recommend that you, ladies and gentlemen of the Press... linger for a bit, as I intend to, in the Lounge, right-over-there." she gestured to a section that was now being opened up.

"Food and Drink are Gratis tonight." she added, "After all, we have guests, and a feast is generally considered good manners." she smiled.

Charles was delighted to hear the Sudovian commands over the radio, he switched channels

"Roger Eisen lead, I will follow you on the corridor"

Over the intercom he told the ambassador and his pilot that they had landing permission.

Hans came back in a hurry, quickly slapped his co-pilot on the shoulder
"Good man Charles, now where are we?"

"We are being guided down sir, just follow the lead plane and we are on band fifteen." Charles reported

Hans immediately made contact with the Sudovians

"This is Captain Kruger, please advise the authorities we have Ambassador Jochiam Foy on board."

Eisen Lead...

"Roger that, Captain Kruger, just a sec..." Anne switched to the ADC channel, "ADC, this is Eisen Lead, I have been asked to relay that Ambassador Joachiam Foy is aboard Rechburg Diplomatic Flight, Over."

"Eisen Lead, ADC here, We're relaying that now, better get back to your charges, Over."

"Roger that, Eisen out." She switched back to fifteen, Better radios, definitely better radios! she thought to herself. The seventies-vintage systems she had weren't adequate. "Rechburg Diplomatic Flight, this is Eisen Lead, your Ambassador's arrival is being relayed post-haste. How's your fuel situation, and can you tank up in-flight if needed, over?" It won't do us any good, any good at all, if they run out of fuel because ADC left 'em loitering too long!! She imagined the wrath of the Princepes at that-Invited guests don't get to crash in the badlands because they ran out of gas!

TO: Sudova Government
FROM: Vamperial Kingdom of Lynion, High King Vamp
RE: Offer

I have not being given a reply back from our offer. Therefore, I would like to request that i dispatch a diplomat to discuss the offer with you. I understand if you want to decline it but I would like to make sure of the offer.

TO: Sudova Government
FROM: Vamperial Kingdom of Lynion, High King Vamp
RE: Offer

I have not being given a reply back from our offer. Therefore, I would like to request that i dispatch a diplomat to discuss the offer with you. I understand if you want to decline it but I would like to make sure of the offer.

[ooc] That's a good assumption-in fact, it's a bit of a 'plot point'. The Sudovan "Foreign Ministry" is mostly made up of retirees dragged back into service (very small number) and brand-new people recruited to re-fill it under Princepes Sarah- and their equipment is, by 2008 standards, horribly inefficient. This means that LOTS of responses got 'lost in the mail' going both ways (in this case, 'lost on the wires' since many Nations don't use the same kind, or type, of wire-service that they did in 1988. The right gear for many nations to reply, or recieve, on is sitting in basements and scrap-lots, replaced by snazzy, new, digital systems that don't read the old analogue signals because "nobody still uses THAT!")

"Rechburg Flight, fuel status is good, negative on the tanker; we are ok to continue Eisen Lead"

OOC: That's why I send it by telegram. 99.9% chance of getting to its TO: person/nation. Anyhow, here's an offical and a statement which should be sent to you. If it makes you happy, I sent one NOT in telegram form.

IC:

Statement made by Vamperial High King Vamp

I have not being given a reply back from our offer. Therefore, I would like to request that i dispatch a diplomat to discuss the offer with you. I understand if you want to decline it but I would like to make sure of the offer.

[ooc] That's a good assumption-in fact, it's a bit of a 'plot point'. The Sudovan "Foreign Ministry" is mostly made up of retirees dragged back into service (very small number) and brand-new people recruited to re-fill it under Princepes Sarah- and their equipment is, by 2008 standards, horribly inefficient. This means that LOTS of responses got 'lost in the mail' going both ways (in this case, 'lost on the wires' since many Nations don't use the same kind, or type, of wire-service that they did in 1988. The right gear for many nations to reply, or recieve, on is sitting in basements and scrap-lots, replaced by snazzy, new, digital systems that don't read the old analogue signals because "nobody still uses THAT!")

ooc dam upgarding your phone lines would make money for somone

Wonder if i could that for you mmm

Foreign Ministry...

"What should we do, sir?" Abercrombie held a warm, recently-printed, telex in his hands.

Supervisor Mattheisen looked over at the young man-at Twenty-three, a boy the age of his grandson, really. Oh, Freya help us all...What I would give for a trained man about now... he sighed, "Did you get the address right when you sent the Response? We've been getting messages all day about lost replies."

Abercrombie looked nervous, "um, Sir...maybe we did not?"

Mattheisen got up, walked over to the telex machine, and looked over the 'sending' apparatus.

He turned two dials, and set four switches.

"Send the reply to the Lynions right now-the reply you were supposed to send to them earlier. your machine was sending The EARLIER signal to the now-defunct Government in Saigon-and their machinery's been off-the-wire since seventy-six!"

"Yes sir." Abercrombie sat down, and laboriously typed out the reply on a punch-card, then, he slid it into the reader, and the reader-machine cammed thin metal fingers through the correct holes to send the telegraphic message to the Lynion government-giving them the correct IFF to use, the preferred (according to the map) vector to approach Sudovan airspace, and the correct altitude and heading to meet their escorts.

Then, he turned, and sent the same heading data to the ADC for the southeast region-this time on wireless, encrypted, to alert the southeast Defense forces to be on the look-out for a diplomatic IFF from an approaching aircraft or ocean-going vessel.
It also included the phone number for the Ministry's international switchboard.

"I'm sorry, sir, it will not happen again." Abercrombie said as he finished his task.

"We shall see-if they answer, then, we will know you did not screw it up again." Mattheissen said.

TO: Government of Sudova

Welcome to the world .this there anything you would help in

From (read the seal it has who from)
http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t69/zxc_047/Imperial%20MT%20Navy-Army-Air%20Forces/NewMT-PMTMititarySeal.jpg

REPLY: Sudova Government
FROM: Vamperial Kingdom of Lynion, High King Vamp

We have intercepted the reply you have sent us. I have sent one of my diplomats to discuss about the offer that we have offered you. I hope that we can figure out a way to establish a relationship between our nations.

En-route to Sudova

"How long until the Sudovians pick us up on radar?" asked the private as Rathma and Longshanks sat down next to Taishi Ci.

"That depends on their tech," replied Rathma coldly as the private looked at him nervously. "If its new, they can sometimes use the crap stuff. However, sometimes it can be due to the blokes behind those operators. May have the latest tech, but maybe they have the worst and rookie techno blokes," finished Rathma.

"Hell," replied the private as he felt embrassed. "That makes sense,"

"Sire, we've just came into Sudovian air space. We'll expect them to intercept us any time soon," came a voice over the intercom.

"That's alright," replied a nervous Taishi Ci.

"This is Lynx Flight 3-15 calling Sudovian Air Control. We're just about an hour maybe 90 minutes out from your land. Please acknowledge over," stated the pilots voice.

The ralkovians responded,"Permission to land," they asked again, this time in unencrypted band-1 radio, easily detected by even the most primitive of radio.

The Rechburg Diplomatic flight finally landed, after the airport clearence procedures a very old car was brought to the plane.

Ambassador Foy, his security detail of 6 men left the plane and entered the car.
Jochiam Foy smiled to himself as he looked around his VIP car, what appeared to be a very old 1950's Russian Zil. Much to do here he mused to himself.

Once all seated, the driver sat as if waiting instructions,

Steve Kiley, head of security was a worried man, here they sat in a foriegn car, a very old foriegn car, no apparent escort and a diplomatic driver who looked and acted more like a taxi driver.
He leant over and whispered into the drivers ear, almost as if he were speaking to an alien

"Take us to your leader"

(I'll just say I got permission)

The planes immediately released their pent up energy and neared mach 7before getting over the airport, they circled for a few moments before hovering and landing. The ralkovians immediately set out to work, the planes released thrust to the ground lowering the plane and superheating the sky for several seconds before rolling up to the hangars they had been assigned by the pilots.

The planes immediately began to unload as a ralkovian AL-Limast G490 rolled off the cargo plane, death guard pulled out motorcycles as well. If the ralkovians were meaning to impress the locals they were doing a fine job. Death Guard covered head to toe in black armor brought out the main stays of their trip.

The ambassadors plane rolled up to the diplomatic area and he got out, immediately death guard swarmed out of the plane and secured the exit as the ambassador stepped through. He looked at the greeters and simply smiled. A gesture that lowered tensions as the death guard relaxed their rigid shoulder armor.

"Aye, sir." The driver accellerated the car smoothly away. Notably, the vehicle made no sound at all, beyond the sound of the wind going past the windows. The ride from the aircraft to the Terminal itself took only a few minutes-a man could have walked the distance easily in only a few more.

Henrik ushered the Rechburg delegation up the now-working escalators, past Security police in their white-and-blue uniforms, and Soldiers in their Tan-and-khakis-the latter's uniforms barely concealing the class-IV ballistic vests worn underneath in spite of being sized larger to accomodate them. (there was simply no way at all to hide the FN-FAL rifles carried by the soldiers.)

[ooc note: the Soldiers and Police are both far, far, more professional and disciplined than the 'foreign ministry' driver-Sudova spends a LOT of gilder on training their troops.]

Floor setting detail: The International lounge area is...well, a large airport bar. Several booths are set up, overlooking the airfield itself, there is a stage, with a string quartet playing classical music, the lighting is 'warm' light of the sort you get with certain expensive types of incandescent bulbs, there is a mock-fireplace on the inboard wall, and that is where Her Majesty's table is set up. Stewards in immaculate white uniforms are acting as wait-staff, and armed soldiers are inobtrusively positioned to provide security-these in dress uniforms that are remarkably similar to the brown-and-Khakis worn by U.S. servicemen during the second world war-if one discounts the slight bulge of ballistic plate vests worn under the dress uniform jackets, and the rather evil-looking black rifles.

The Princepes herself is attired in a dark blue and creme gown, long woolen cloak, and short-heeled walking boots. She sits with a spear propped beside her-this weapon is clearly a purely ceremonial piece, inlaid with silver knotwork and various decorations. Her dishwater blonde hair is worn pulled back, revealing her entire face. Princepes Sarah would be quite a looker, if not for the empty, ragged socket where her left eye should be, or the red, twisting scar around her neck, a scar visible at a distance of more than twenty feet here. While her soldiers are spread out through the room, no obvious bodyguard stands next to her, or behind. Her attire is a mixture of the genteel civilized, and the brutishly barbaric.

The meal is served on fine china plates, and the drinks in rather expensive looking glass crystal, and everyone has silverware. The food itself is arrayed on a long table set in the middle of the room, at an angle to Sarah's chair, allowing her to see everyone (almost) in the room at once, even with only one good eye.

A senior NCO of the 1st Regiment announced, "Ambassador Jochim Foy, and his retainers!"

Sarah stands, "Ambassador, be at ease as my guest, and assure your men that they, too, are guests. Take ease after your long flight, let your men have some time to relax, and come sit at my table if you would?"

[ooc-Ralkovia, you're next, Honest! gotta get the 'estimated time spans' lined up for everyone's arrival...]

ooc that mean you getting to me too?

ooc that mean you getting to me too?

yup. The thread's got a "Plot Moment" going right now-Ralkovia's entrance was...a touch aggressive, since they're the second-in-order for actually reaching the meeting site, reactions have to occur-specifically, Ambassador Foy's reactions, both to his greeting, and then, to the storm-like arrival of Ralkovia's delegate, whereupon, I can have Sarah react to Ralkovia's last post, land the Lynions at the airport, and possibly yours as well...
come to t'ink of it, that bit, and both Imperial Isa and Lynion's trip in to Sudovan airspace can be handled while we're waiting...

OOC: Time span? why not do a time shift?

[Telegraph to Imperial Isa]

Her Majesty the Princepes of Sudova invites your nation to send a representative and staff to a gathering, to be held at the Alois Memorial International Terminal in the Capital City of Klein.

There, offers of full diplomatic exchange, including rights to formal Embassy grounds, arrangements for Ambassadorial facilities (with appropriate Diplomatic Immunities) and such will be formalized. This is intended to be a recurring event, so if you can not attend this month's conference, nor send an appropriate representative on such short notice, another such gathering will be held later.

If you choose to attend this month's gathering, Her Majesty assures you that your Ambassador will be permitted to meet directly with her, in public circumstances, that food, drink, and lodging will be provided without charge, and that they and their staff will be treated as guests according to the old traditions, including, if necessary, protection from their enemies while present, and Weregild should something unfortunate happen to them whether by natural, or non-natural causes. This conference will go on for several days, and includes protected trips to survey and select Embassy sites should your nation so wish it, preliminary agreements on trade will be discussed, and appropriate rules for exchange of other courtesies will be entertained.

Upon your approach to our territorial airspace (or waters, should you be arriving by sea) please broadcast on IFF band 228 of the 1976 SEATO designated broadcast Channels, please await your escorts at the edge of our airspace, they will serve to lead your delegates through the safest courses available.

Thank you for your attention
Foreign Minister Sir Ector.

yup. The thread's got a "Plot Moment" going right now-Ralkovia's entrance was...a touch aggressive, since they're the second-in-order for actually reaching the meeting site, reactions have to occur-specifically, Ambassador Foy's reactions, both to his greeting, and then, to the storm-like arrival of Ralkovia's delegate, whereupon, I can have Sarah react to Ralkovia's last post, land the Lynions at the airport, and possibly yours as well...
come to t'ink of it, that bit, and both Imperial Isa and Lynion's trip in to Sudovan airspace can be handled while we're waiting...

ooc as you not a FT nation,it just Imperial,

an your airport got runway that can take a C-12 which is three time bigger then C-5 Galaxy ora C-6 which is two time bigger then a C-5 Galaxy ?

ooc as you not a FT nation,it just Imperial,

an your airport got runway that can take a C-12 which is three time bigger then C-5 Galaxy ora C-6 which is two time bigger then a C-5 Galaxy ?

[ooc] Highly unlikely at this time-Figure the tarmac was designed and constructed for "cold war" era ground-pressure and weights, a C-5's about as big as is practical, something on the scale of a 747-400 or C-5 would be best, though an AN-226 could probably land without breaking the concrete or running out of runway.

OOC: Don't forget about me.

OOC: Don't forget about me.

[ooc] Worry not, you are not forgot. (just gotta get the clever bits working in my battered head...)

Southern Airspace Defense Cordon...

"Lynx Three-one-fiver, this is Sudova Air-Cordon South, Divert One-fiver degrees East to the safe corridor, You'll be met by a pair of Eff-Fives from Third Intercept Squadron, they'll bird-dog you in, Over."

For: The Government of Sudova
From: IDR Tracy Tanner, Romandeos

Greetings,

Empress Taunja I, having been informed of Sudova’s emergence from isolation has given instructions that contact be made between yourselves and the Imperial Federated States as rapidly as possible.

I request permission to journey to Sudova with the purpose of establishing an embassy.

Regards,
IDR Tracy Tanner, IFSR

OOC:

IDR = Imperial Diplomatic Representative. These men and women are professional diplomats in service of the Monarch.

Romandeos, so you know, is early PMT, around 10-30 years ahead of real life modern tech, depending on the specific field in question.

"Copy that Sudova Air-Cordon South," replied the pilot as they altered course. "We have altered course and will be landing soon,"

The jet altered course as it was intercepted by a pair of Interceptors that were obviously their escort. Rathma looked out the window as he shaked his head at the thought of something. Taishi Ci looked confused for a moment before the pilot landed on the runway.

"Lock and load crew," ordered Rathma as he loaded his MX8 Rifle. "Taishi Ci has important business to attend too and we need to keep him safe and secured,"

Rathma placed his rifle on his back as he checked his pistol before the door was opened and they stepped outside.

Klein International, Tarmac...

Captain Thorsgaard shook his head in frustration as he pushed his men into a "Friendly greeting" posture. "That screw up with the Rechburg delegation!" he muttered. "Probably cost us all..." He glared at the foreign-service Supervisor again, "You sent us to the wrong damn part of the field, they probably think we're all idiots now."

Supervisor Lindt sighed, "Captain, it was a clerical Error. These things happen..."

Thorsgaard spat, "If she'd given this job to the Military, maybe our Nation would not be diminished!"

"and maybe your trigger-happy myrmidons would have created an even LARGER embarassment!" the civilian snarled back, as the Rover came to a halt.

Thorsgaard glared at the man, "My men are NOT, as you put it, 'trigger-happy-myrmidons!", he got out of the vehicle, and helped the older man to the ground, "They are Professionals with discipline, unlike your amatuer clerks."

"She entrusted the job to MY people, Captain." Lindt reminded him.

Thorsgaard looked back over at the aircraft from Lynion, "Ya, she did. I'm just stinging because of the embarassment to Her Majesty that resulted from no honour guards meeting the first delegates to arrive."

"She may have the wisdom to mitigate that, Captain." Lindt said, "After all she did survive the Ordeal while her brothers died...at any rate, it's too late to fret, the bones are cast as they have fallen...looks like they're going to bring out the armed guards first."

"Well, good luck to you, Supervisor." Thorsgaard said, "Glad I don't have to be over there talking to them just yet."

The Sargeants called the colour guard to attention, then to present arms, while Lindt hurried over to greet the incoming delegation.

Thorsgaard sighed again, and ran a radio-check to the standby squads. Bloody insane, bringing them all here at once! Allfather, I'm not ready to go just yet...

To: Nation of Romandeos

From: Sir Ector, Foreign Minister, Principality of Sudova

Her Majesty the Princepes of Sudova invites your nation to send a representative and staff to a gathering, to be held at the Alois Memorial International Terminal in the Capital City of Klein.

There, offers of full diplomatic exchange, including rights to formal Embassy grounds, arrangements for Ambassadorial facilities (with appropriate Diplomatic Immunities) and such will be formalized. This is intended to be a recurring event, so if you can not attend this month's conference, nor send an appropriate representative on such short notice, another such gathering will be held later.

If you choose to attend this month's gathering, Her Majesty assures you that your Ambassador will be permitted to meet directly with her, in public circumstances, that food, drink, and lodging will be provided without charge, and that they and their staff will be treated as guests according to the old traditions, including, if necessary, protection from their enemies while present, and Weregild should something unfortunate happen to them whether by natural, or non-natural causes. This conference will go on for several days, and includes protected trips to survey and select Embassy sites should your nation so wish it, preliminary agreements on trade will be discussed, and appropriate rules for exchange of other courtesies will be entertained.

Upon your approach to our territorial airspace (or waters, should you be arriving by sea) please broadcast on IFF band 228 of the 1976 SEATO designated broadcast Channels, please await your escorts at the edge of our airspace, they will serve to lead your delegates through the safest courses available.

Thank you for your attention
Foreign Minister Sir Ector.

OCC
In the interest of keeping things brief so you can keep the thread flowing for other Rpers' I am going to RP right through my presentation, rather than off and on.


Ambassador Foy walked over and after offering a bow, he said firmly

"Your Majesty I am honoured to have the chance to meet you at last, My Duke also asked me personnally to extend to you his great joy at learning that you are doing so much to bring your glorious nation into the modern world."

He sat in the seat offered to him, he waved his hand to the chief of security Steve Kiley.
"My party, your majesty will not sit, they will stand back out of the way".

As he looked at his host he could not help but notice the eye socket and large scar, he had read about these and the customs off the Sudova people so neither came as a surprise. In fact he thought to himself, she was not entirely an unattractive woman, perhaps it was the element of mysticism about the Sudovans that intrigued him.

"Your Majesty I noticed as we left the plane, that you have many guests arriving and I do not wish to indulge in too much off your valuable time. So may I be so bold as to state what my country can do to assist you"

He took a quiet sip of wine to wet his pallet, the wine came as a delight to his pallet. Taking a mental note to look up the Sudovan winery that makes such a splendid vintage.

"Your Majesty in the first instance may I have the honour to present to you my diplomatic credentials, merely as a formal procedure so I may talk to you as an official of Rechburg rather than just an over eager admirer of a queen."

Taking an envelope from his jacket pocket he placed it on the table beside the Queen, Official seal plain for all to see.

"Your Majesty Rechburg wants nothing from Sudova other than friendship, friendships that can be cemented in trade, economic relationships and in defence treaties.
My Nation madam have often been referred to as a "nation of shopkeepers", this is because we are a nation built on Mercentile achievements. In fact one of the original tribes of Rechburg were the Gregorians, a race of people that were renown in history for being merchants and traders. From those early days our nation has developed a very strong mercentile culture and an equally strong economic base.
Being merchants madam, we are always on the search for new products and new trade, it is what we are and what we do.

That being the case your Majesty my Duke has assured me that your trade with Rechburg will be tariff free, that of course means you will get your products into Rechburg much cheaper than most other nations.
With our Merchants buying your nations products, we will ensure that Sudova
has the makings of a propserous industrial and craft-workshop base.

In coming here I could not help but notice that much of your nations infrastructure needs updating and repairing. Rechburg has some of the worlds most advanced economic technologies, companies who specialise in infrastructure improvement, can come an assist, even train Sudovan people to build and repair infrastructure as well as extending your nations economic base.
In doing this we would assist you in education, building schools, universities and Polytechnics to train your youth, in doing this I can assure you the young Sudovans will have a prospeous future to aspire too.

Finally Your majesty comes the matter of your defence forces, it was mentioned to me on the way here that much of your military are woefully ill-equipped. The first priority must be madam, to modernise your military so you can have a secure defence force.
We in Rechburg produce most of our own equipment, with Conglomorates such as Davout armaments and my fathers own Foy's international, we can assure you that you will be supplied with the best and most up to date weaponry, be that the assault rifle for the soldier or the fighters and ships of your navy.

We can train your soldiers, intitially send your officers to our military academies until such time as we can build them in Sudova.

Finally your majesty I am instructed to offer you a mutual defence pact with Rechburg, this will ensure that Sudova is militarily secure.
The extent of the military relationship and such a defence pact would of course depend on your needs and desires, so we can perhaps discuss the defence issues later.
Be assured however your majesty, Rechburg does not seek to make you a colony or a junior partner in any relationship. In fact quite the contrary, we are offering you the opportunities and programs so Sudova can take its place in the world as a powerful and righteous member of the international community.

I daresay, madam that with your canny eye on the purse you may enquire, what does all this cost Sudova.
Madam, Rechburg would ask we be allowed to share in your nations growth, as junior partners in the capital of the new industries and in restructuring of the older ones. We would ask we be allowed to invest as shareholders up to a point and not beyond where Sudova shareholders hold the majority of a companies shares.
That we be allowed to open mines and drill for oil etc, at Rechburg expense and again we will buy into the more succesful ventures up to a point that is less than 50% of shares.
We would ask that you show Rechburgs merchants and businesses a favourable tax break in return.

We would through Foy Mercentile bank, one of the worlds largest merchant banks offer the Sudova Government access to international finance as well as finance for your citizens.

In short Majesty, we dont want anything from Sudova, we want to invest in Sudova, through our investments in money and expertise, the Sudovan economy will increase; thus will our own returns increase.
Through our investment in your military infrastructure, we gain a strong and reliable military partner, so we do not seek to take away from Sudova, we seek to add to its potential."

Taking his wine in hand once more the Ambassador started on his meal while he listend to the Queen.

Rathma looked around as he was the first to open and step out of the door of the plane. He was wearing a cloak that nearly cover his boots in a navy blue colour alongside an ensigma patch on each of his shoulders and his slouch hat with the Wolf Ensigma. His cybernetic limbs were covered by his cargo trousers and cloak. The other Lynion Assassins had similar clothing while Taishi Ci was wearing a customised shirt and trousers to withstand the unknown climate.

Taishi Ci was escorted out of the plane with an Assassin in front of him and three behind him. Longshanks was the last to leave the plane and by now, Rathma was scanning through the honour guards which were armed and which weren't.

"Master Rathma," started Taishi Ci before he spoke in his native language. "(Which one do you think is their commanding officer)?"

"(They're all sarges)," stated Longshanks in the native language.

"(Simple)," started Rathma as he replied back in their native language. "(That man is their commanding officer. His rank is different from the others)," explained Rathma in his native language.

He waited for a moment before Taishi Ci came beside him. He was a bit nervous but then again, it was his first diplomat relation duty. He took a deep breath as he walked to the commander. Rathma and the others walked behind Taishi Ci for the time being before Rathma flanked Taishi Ci's left hand side.

"Hello, my name is King Taishi Ci and I've being sent as an ambassador for my..." started Taishi Ci before he looked at Rathma for support only to get a shaking head. He quickly turned back to the officer. "My grandfather High King Vamp. I believe there was a deal to be made about a possible agreement," finished Taishi Ci.

'Thank the heavens,' thought Rathma to himself. 'I hate explaining our culture to the poor foriegners,'

Sarah favoured him with a smile, "We do intend to pursue economic and possibly military relationships, and your offer is quite generous-however, nothing will be signed this evening. To-morrow, I would take it a kindness if you would examine several candidate sites for an Embassy, so that serious policy decisions, and stronger relations, can be forged between us-" There was a chaotic sound of clattering feet, and Sarah's guardsmen, still as statues around the room, moved with...somewhat surprising speed, between guests, staffers, and the entryway, as the troops in the lobby assumed 'combat positions'.

The Lounge turned into an armed camp in an instant, facing the doorway as the first Ralkovian troops, weapons raised, appeared.

"Hold your fire, gentlemen." Sarah said it in a conversational tone that still somehow managed to fill the entire space, "I believe these are the Ralkovian delegation?" she didn't, as many of her own people had, duck behind cover-it would have meant showing the fear and alarm she was actually feeling at the sudden presence of armed foreign troops on her nation's soil.

Foy's escorts had him protected, interposing themselves into any lines of fire with smooth ease.

The air was electric with the tension. "Pardon, Ambassador, but I think I may need to defuse this." she said grimly. The sound of footsteps, as Ralkovia's delegate approached the 'secured' door echoed in the silence.

She hefted the spear in one hand, and undid her hair with the other, letting it fall loose in strands of reddish gold. Walking from her place at the table, she stepped past alarmed bodyguards, frightened newsmen, and her own soldiers.

The Ralkovian Ambassador finally appeared in the doorway, as Sarah struck the butt of the spear on the tiles. "Weapons Down." she said, "First man to harm a guest, I'm going after his family." Her voice rasped with menace, almost as if she were speaking from a noose.

Sarah's men lowered their weapons, and safed them.

The Ralkovian delegate Smiled, and his own men relaxed their posture.

"Welcome to my land, you are guests here, under the Old Codes, I would appreciate it if you would Abide them, Ambassador." she said, the raspy, grave-depth quality (quite unlike her conversation with Foy moments earlier) remained. "Your men may either remain, with their weapons bound to the Peace, and enjoy my hospitality, or they may wait outside. I will NOT have blood spilled in my house, even by accident, are we clear?"

Outside...

Lindt smiled as they walked up, then, gawked, as the delegates walked past him, to Captain Thorsgaard.

Thorsgaard saw them snub the diplomat-supervisor, and forced down the snort. The one his gut told him was the alpha spoke. "Hello, my name is King Taishi Ci and I've being sent as an ambassador for my..." the foreigner paused, as if trying to translate from some exotic tongue, "My grandfather High King Vamp. I believe there was a deal to be made about a possible agreement."

Thorsgaard thought back to his father's stories about the SOG officers from the United States, and how one was supposed to speak with them-especially newbies from CIA.

"Welcome to Sudova, King Taishi Ci, Mister Lindt-the gentleman over there-" he gestured at Lindt, "-he is the diplomat. I am merely assigned to see to it that you arrive in safety to Her Majesty's presence, that no harm come to you as her guest, and that no quarrels you may or may not have with her other guests get out of hand." He then gave the man a salute, "Sir."

Okay, Lindt, you officious prick, I've covered your ass, now do your damn job. Thorsgaard thought fiercely.

Rathma looked around at the Honour Guard for a quick second. His ears pitched into the conversation for a moment and then it occured to him about the protection for Taishi Ci might be at risk. However, he tuned back to the situation for a moment.

"Thank you, we find it an honour to be in your nation," started Taishi Ci. "I'm sure that my escort will behave accordingly," finished Taishi Ci as he saluted back back.

Rathma watched Taishi Ci nodded his head to the captain. Taishi Ci was escorted alongside with Rathma to the other diplomat. Rathma quickly scanned the man and then turned to glance at Longshanks before going back to Taishi Ci.

"Hello sir, you must be the diplomat I need to see," started Taishi Ci.

Sarah favoured him with a smile, "We do intend to pursue economic and possibly military relationships, and your offer is quite generous-however, nothing will be signed this evening. To-morrow, I would take it a kindness if you would examine several candidate sites for an Embassy, so that serious policy decisions, and stronger relations, can be forged between us-" There was a chaotic sound of clattering feet, and Sarah's guardsmen, still as statues around the room, moved with...somewhat surprising speed, between guests, staffers, and the entryway, as the troops in the lobby assumed 'combat positions'.

The Lounge turned into an armed camp in an instant, facing the doorway as the first Ralkovian troops, weapons raised, appeared.

"Hold your fire, gentlemen." Sarah said it in a conversational tone that still somehow managed to fill the entire space, "I believe these are the Ralkovian delegation?" she didn't, as many of her own people had, duck behind cover-it would have meant showing the fear and alarm she was actually feeling at the sudden presence of armed foreign troops on her nation's soil.

Foy's escorts had him protected, interposing themselves into any lines of fire with smooth ease.

The air was electric with the tension. "Pardon, Ambassador, but I think I may need to defuse this." she said grimly. The sound of footsteps, as Ralkovia's delegate approached the 'secured' door echoed in the silence.

She hefted the spear in one hand, and undid her hair with the other, letting it fall loose in strands of reddish gold. Walking from her place at the table, she stepped past alarmed bodyguards, frightened newsmen, and her own soldiers.

The Ralkovian Ambassador finally appeared in the doorway, as Sarah struck the butt of the spear on the tiles. "Weapons Down." she said, "First man to harm a guest, I'm going after his family." Her voice rasped with menace, almost as if she were speaking from a noose.

Sarah's men lowered their weapons, and safed them.

The Ralkovian delegate Smiled, and his own men relaxed their posture.

"Welcome to my land, you are guests here, under the Old Codes, I would appreciate it if you would Abide them, Ambassador." she said, the raspy, grave-depth quality (quite unlike her conversation with Foy moments earlier) remained. "Your men may either remain, with their weapons bound to the Peace, and enjoy my hospitality, or they may wait outside. I will NOT have blood spilled in my house, even by accident, are we clear?"

"I am Ezekial Williams it is nice to meet you, Sarah I presume?" As she nodded the death guard all took a quick salute to the women before snapping back to position."I represent ralkovia and the RAPS program, I presume we will get into business later on as an airport is no place to conduct such important things"

The stern expression didn't soften, but the tension drained from the locals a notch. A keen observer might have noted that something had passed among the Sudovan troops present-a hope confirmed, or a doubt dissuaded. A visitor who'd familiarized themselves with the violent coup that removed her grandfather might make the connection- Alois had been overawed by American power, and thus, lost his place to an isolationist son.

The gesture-confronting the arriving Power and effectively putting it on notice immediately would play well with the Conservative element domestically.

"Then, Mister Williams, I would suggest, if you wish productive discussions later, that you have your men stack all but personal arms, put them to ease, and come have a seat." She said quietly-the rasp was noticeably absent now, replaced by a lilting, smooth, and melodic tone quite unlike the strangled and unsettling 'voice of the grave' of just a moment ago.

"Before we sign a single treaty of alliance, I will have the measure of you, sir." she added, "Unlike my Grandfather, I am overawed neither by power, nor technology-both can be either achieved, or subverted." She raised her free hand, and the soldiers parted, spreading warily back to their posts-including the musicians, whose 'cover' had vanished at the first sound of the Death Guard's boots in the open hall beyond. "Please, join us at the table, there are others arriving soon."

[ooc] Highly unlikely at this time-Figure the tarmac was designed and constructed for "cold war" era ground-pressure and weights, a C-5's about as big as is practical, something on the scale of a 747-400 or C-5 would be best, though an AN-226 could probably land without breaking the concrete or running out of runway.

ooc don't any have any 7474-400 as i don't have any airlines and i C5 can't carry the weights of four of my tanks so sea it is

[Telegraph to Imperial Isa]

Her Majesty the Princepes of Sudova invites your nation to send a representative and staff to a gathering, to be held at the Alois Memorial International Terminal in the Capital City of Klein.

There, offers of full diplomatic exchange, including rights to formal Embassy grounds, arrangements for Ambassadorial facilities (with appropriate Diplomatic Immunities) and such will be formalized. This is intended to be a recurring event, so if you can not attend this month's conference, nor send an appropriate representative on such short notice, another such gathering will be held later.

If you choose to attend this month's gathering, Her Majesty assures you that your Ambassador will be permitted to meet directly with her, in public circumstances, that food, drink, and lodging will be provided without charge, and that they and their staff will be treated as guests according to the old traditions, including, if necessary, protection from their enemies while present, and Weregild should something unfortunate happen to them whether by natural, or non-natural causes. This conference will go on for several days, and includes protected trips to survey and select Embassy sites should your nation so wish it, preliminary agreements on trade will be discussed, and appropriate rules for exchange of other courtesies will be entertained.

Upon your approach to our territorial airspace (or waters, should you be arriving by sea) please broadcast on IFF band 228 of the 1976 SEATO designated broadcast Channels, please await your escorts at the edge of our airspace, they will serve to lead your delegates through the safest courses available.

Thank you for your attention
Foreign Minister Sir Ector.

To Foreign Minister Sir Ector

first off the title of Ambassador is Not used or is a role in Imperial and second seeing our photos show your ranways can't take our planes, the officer we sending is landing by landing craft from a troopship in a convoy and we all so sorry to say you Identification Friend or Foe code is useless to us as we don't know the 1979 Southeast Asia Treaty Organization designated broadcast Channels

From IMHQ

The stern expression didn't soften, but the tension drained from the locals a notch. A keen observer might have noted that something had passed among the Sudovan troops present-a hope confirmed, or a doubt dissuaded. A visitor who'd familiarized themselves with the violent coup that removed her grandfather might make the connection- Alois had been overawed by American power, and thus, lost his place to an isolationist son.

The gesture-confronting the arriving Power and effectively putting it on notice immediately would play well with the Conservative element domestically.

"Then, Mister Williams, I would suggest, if you wish productive discussions later, that you have your men stack all but personal arms, put them to ease, and come have a seat." She said quietly-the rasp was noticeably absent now, replaced by a lilting, smooth, and melodic tone quite unlike the strangled and unsettling 'voice of the grave' of just a moment ago.

"Before we sign a single treaty of alliance, I will have the measure of you, sir." she added, "Unlike my Grandfather, I am overawed neither by power, nor technology-both can be either achieved, or subverted." She raised her free hand, and the soldiers parted, spreading warily back to their posts-including the musicians, whose 'cover' had vanished at the first sound of the Death Guard's boots in the open hall beyond. "Please, join us at the table, there are others arriving soon."

"Seide smera, oyln,"The death guard immediately placed down their larger weapons(assault rifle and light machine guns), Ezekial bowed towards Sarah before heading to the table. The Death Guard never lost their alertness and any sound of metal clinking immediately drew their black helmet to the noise. Do to being in an airport though this caused much uneasiness with all the sounds around them."Rea henacers olff," Ezekial said, the death guard immediately touched the sides of their helmets turning off small read rings on the sides.

Ezekial turned towards Sarah,"Your technology is heavily outdated, if you should join the RAPS program we can guarantee that your air force and communications will be state of the art."

ooc don't any have any 7474-400 as i don't have any airlines and i C5 can't carry the weights of four of my tanks so sea it is



[ooc] You seriously don't have anything lighter? and you seriously think you need a tank platoon to protect a diplomatic officer at a first meeting?

(Also need the ground-pressure for your tanks, they might not fit on the highways and may need to be rail-loaded from the coast. Klein City is about 221km inland in mountainous terrain.)

[ooc]Dammit, gotta go to work now! I'll be on later tonight, to do replies for Ralkovia, get Lynion's man into the reception, and work a bit on some intel-briefs for everyone involved (I'll probably have to PM or TG those-just 'cause Sudova's got shit for a foreign service, doesn't mean everyone else is short of spies, sattellites, and communications intercept gear, with competent analysis people.)

[ooc] You seriously don't have anything lighter? and you seriously think you need a tank platoon to protect a diplomatic officer at a first meeting?

(Also need the ground-pressure for your tanks, they might not fit on the highways and may need to be rail-loaded from the coast. Klein City is about 221km inland in mountainous terrain.)

OOC where on earth you get the dam idea from, Seriously who the hell said any thing of bring tanks,as i never said a thing icly only oocly and i still did not say anything of bring them

if you don't know the the C5 can carry two M1 tanks,my biggest transport plane are made to carry four fully load tanks to any peace mission hotspots if there is no coast,the second can carry three

OOC where on earth you get the dam idea from, Seriously who the hell said any thing of bring tanks,as i never said a thing icly only oocly and i still did not say anything of bring them

if you don't know the the C5 can carry two M1 tanks,my biggest transport plane are made to carry four fully load tanks to any peace mission hotspots if there is no coast,the second can carry three
[ooc]
You mentioned needing a large transport, and that your nation's transport aircraft were designed to haul four-tank loads, AND that, because of that, your man would be coming by sea, presumably aboard something designed to carry four or more heavy, armoured, tracked, combat vehicles.

Hence, I either need to ask you for your reasoning, or come up with a reason why your man would NEED four main-battle-tanks to attend a diplomatic conference.

[ooc]
You mentioned needing a large transport, and that your nation's transport aircraft were designed to haul four-tank loads, AND that, because of that, your man would be coming by sea, presumably aboard something designed to carry four or more heavy, armoured, tracked, combat vehicles.

Hence, I either need to ask you for your reasoning, or come up with a reason why your man would NEED four main-battle-tanks to attend a diplomatic conference.

ooc No shit i was asking as i would have RECON to see if YOU have any ranways with the length they need to land and can take the force of them landing

I NEVER said i was bring tanks,YOUR the ONE WHO got into your head i was

and What coming by sea got to be with TANKs? mean nothing just how he getting there

ooc No shit i was asking as i would have RECON to see if YOU have any ranways with the length they need to land and can take the force of them landing

I NEVER said i was bring tanks,YOUR the ONE WHO got into your head i was

and What coming by sea got to be with TANKs? mean nothing just how he getting there

Relax, man, I misread your intent, that's all.(though it DID give me some ideas that might be interesting to explore later, if you're willing to run with 'em.)

No offense meant.

( Response please)

( bump )

After having left the meetings at the airport, the Rechburg ambassador decided to accept her majesty's invitation and drive around looking for possible sites for an embassy.
All the buildings they were shown, were totally unacceptable, so evenetually it was decided that Rechburg would build their own.
The journey around the city would almost pleasant despite the occasional pot-holed roads, that was until the old Zil limousine they had been given eventually broke down. Thus the ambassador and her security detail were forced to walk back to the airport.

Along the way she noted on her PDA

"Found vacant property, will need to build own Embassy and complex"
"Need to bring everything in, from furniture to mechanics and vehicles"

Infrastrucure here lousy.

Finally she arrived back at the airport, exhausted, dishevelled and not a little annoyed, she made her way into the lounge to see how her majesty was progressing with all the other parties.

sorry, rough night at work. I'm going to have to delay some of the 'off thread' material for a later date and...well...just play for a bit. Um, Rechburg, I know it's been a bit draggy, but please don't rush ahead just yet? the timing of the 'confrontation' was only a few seconds, not quite long enough to go rushing out into the unknown in a refitted '58 Sulov.

Sarah finally smiled, and with a gesture, led Ambassador Wilson to the table. "have a seat, Mister Wilson." she said, "This is Ambassador Foy from the Duchy of Rechburg-we were just discussing some possibilities for Trade. You must agree, a strong economic back is needed to support any useful improvements in military capability?" She said, adding a smile that didn't quite meet her eyes. "Currently, for instance, there are a number of areas in the City itself which are...unsuitable...for any sort of official use. I've been working on setting up an international district for Embassies, not just for one or two nations, but possibly for more than that-My worry, and the reason we're all meeting HERE, is that I will NOT have what Grandfather had, with the Soviets on one end of the street, and the Yanks on the other, and my people caught in the middle of THEIR war."

OOC: I would like a response please.

Airfield...

Lindt looked over the man and extended his own hand, "Welcome to Sudova, I'm Foreign Service supervisor Lindt." he said somewhat nervously, "The Princepes is awaiting you, and your men, inside, if you would do me the favour?" He gestured, and the Limo pulled up. It was an old one-most of the automotive sector had shifted to all-wheel drive economy vehicles with diesel-electrics years ago, finding "Luxury" cars had taken some effort, and, based on how the Rechburgers had reacted to the Sulov, not garnered true success. But we have to put up some kind of appearances...

The imported Lincoln rolled smoothly (and utterly silently, on electrics) to a stop, and the driver opened the door. "I assume, from your men's demeanour, that we won't have to provide them transport to the main building, yes?"

At about that time, the Ralkovian jets thundered down in an entrance that was both shocking to Lindt, and alarming to the Sudovan troops on the tarmac near the Lynion delegation's aircraft. The "Honour guard'' posted to recieve the diplomats dropped out of their precise parade-line greeting formation, and spread out into fire-teams pointed at the thundering Ralkovians.


Thorsgaard was shouting into the radio, as the locals formed a wedge formation to cover the Lynions. It was almost laughable, as these men weren't armed for a genuine heavy firefight, having been positioned mainly to look good and render salutes, and there was no cover on the open concrete. Almost laughable, because their first move, instead of scattering or blundering forward, was to deploy in a fairly professional way to protect the arriving guests.

"COLD!!" The Captain barked, "Cold, men-it isn't an attack-that's a Delegation!!!" Lindt looked over at Taishi-Ci, "Um, I apologize for that... apparently my colleagues were unclear to someone about the terms..."

'I don't trust this one,' thought Rathma to himself as he placed his hand around his back to feel for his rifle.

"(These men means no harm but, I'll require the presence of Rathma)," stated Taishi Ci in the native language quickly making Rathma bring his hand to his side.

"(Boys, take point and I'll send the location when we arrive)," stated Rathma.

"I don't mind," started Taishi Ci. "The others don't mind a run. However, Rathma is ordered to be with me at all times," stated Taishi Ci as he climbed into the vehicle alongside with Rathma. Rathma gave a short glare at Lindt before getting inside with Taishi Ci.

'Can't be an assassination attempt,' thought Rathma to himself.

Lindt sighed and relaxed.

The "Dippy Driver" had been replaced by Corporal Bennig Whatley, on the basis that Whatley was a professional, and after seeing a foreign service driver try to make the Zil into a bumper-car with the Rechburg delegates, the Army had reasserted primacy in security matters.

He waited for the guests to get visibly comfortable in the soft leather seats in back, then, he pressed the accellerator, bringing the car to a silent motion at the airfield-required 5 miles per hour. They ought to understand-can't have cars barrelling along in the flight line, and I don't think their guys wanna be gettin' to the buildin' all sweaty and exhausted...

He soon regretted that, as Lindt inanely tried to engage the Lynion ambassador in small-talk.

"...retrofitted this auto with a hybrid diesel-electric drive, updated the suspension, and added power-scavenging flywheels to the braking systems for optimum efficiency." Lindt was saying.

Bennig just wished the foreign service man would shut the hell up and let the guests decide if they were curious about Sudova's small advances or not-hybrid drive and power-scavenging were common everywhere, as far as he knew. Shut up, sir, they're not interested... He sighed, and brought the car smoothly around a line-maintenance truck that was responding to a call from the airbase side of the airport-and silently wished that this car had the kind of 'privacy shield' he saw proper Limousines in bootleg movies-it wouldn't have saved the guests, but it would have done wonders for the driver's nerves.

The car reached the ground-level entrance, and Bennig brought it to a silent halt smooth enough that it wouldn't have spilled a drink in Colonel Fostner's tippy coffee cup.

He stepped out, and following the usual custom of an Officer's Driver, checked out the area before opening the door for the guests-in the process opening the door to get that yappy bastard Lindt out of his car.

The Lynion troopers kept up the whole way, a fact that made Bennig smile a bit. Decent bunch. A little on the sour-face side...

Bennig also rendered a hand-salute to the guests, but not to the Foreign-Service man.

ooc just to make it clear i did say convoy so there be a number of ships in it when i post it

ooc just to make it clear i did say convoy so there be a number of ships in it when i post it

Okay, need a point-of-view character.

"...retrofitted this auto with a hybrid diesel-electric drive, updated the suspension, and added power-scavenging flywheels to the braking systems for optimum efficiency." started Lindt.

"Interesting choice of auto," replied Taishi Ci. "You seem to be well updated for your culture and technology. Lynion Auto's are mainly focused around hybrid technology but I don't know much about the details,"

"The hybrid classifications are built to last much longer than oil based cars," stated Rathma. "We use the diesel to power the eletronic equipments and our railway system. The electric idea had too many flaws so it was decided the civilian population, like cities and tows, had electricy running through. we see no point in running a combination of hybrid, diesel and electric drives," finished Rathma.

"You do a lot for your advances and its good to hear that small nations can make their advance quickly," congulated Taishi Ci. "Very few small nations are willing to advance in their lives and technology,"

Rathma didn't respond to Taishi Ci's statement. He knew what it was like to be part of the advancement for the nation. Rathma pulled his slevee back to expose a cybernetic arm and hand. The hand twisted at his command of the thought before Taishi Ci tapped him on the shoulder. He blinked twice and watched the door suddenly open shortly after the car stopped. Rathma was the first to leave the car and he quickly scanned the area. He gave thumbs up to Taishi Ci who appear out of the car followed by the representive of the Sudovian Government.

"About time you arrive," joked Rathma to the other Lynion Assassin's as Longshanks laughed at the thought.

"Hey, the scene was nice," stated Longshanks as he took a deep breath to calm himself down.

"Longshanks was struggling at one point," teased Jaxson causing two others to laugh. "I hate to leave him behind," This caused the squad, except Rathma, to laugh at the idea.

"Alright, cut the chatter," ordered Rathma. "You'll be representing Lynion even though Taishi Ci is our ambassador," started Rathma causing some of the squad to laugh. "I don't mind any of you playing poker or cards, but if we come under attack, I need everyone to respond to my orders or Taishi Ci orders," finished Rathma.

While this was happening, Taishi Ci looked at the man that had escorted him to the current location. He looked around and removed his slouch hat. He noticed the beauty of the building and nodded his head for a moment. Taishi Ci listened to Rathma's orders for a moment and remembered how orders always went.

"Excuse Rathma and the other Assassins," started Taishi Ci. "They're just being given a briefing by Rathma about the situation. They'll loosen up when they start to play poker amongest themselves. Poker is a common card game amongest the Lynion Military Forces so that keeps them quiet and loosen them up," contiuned Taishi Ci. "However, I'm guessing we're behind the timetable. Where do we go to find your government leader?"

four Super Delis, (http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t69/zxc_047/Imperial%20MT%20Navy-Army-Air%20Forces/SuperDeliClassAmmunition-Storesship.jpg) two Troop ships (http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t69/zxc_047/Imperial%20MT%20Navy-Army-Air%20Forces/ImperialNavySovereignAmphibiousMult.gif), one Missile (http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t69/zxc_047/Imperial%20MT%20Navy-Army-Air%20Forces/FoxMissileBattlecruiser-1.jpg) Battlecruiser , two classes of Missile (http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t69/zxc_047/Imperial%20MT%20Navy-Army-Air%20Forces/HoundMissileCruiser-1.jpg) Cruisers (http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t69/zxc_047/Imperial%20MT%20Navy-Army-Air%20Forces/RetributionMissileCruiser-1.jpg),six Missile (http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t69/zxc_047/Imperial%20MT%20Navy-Army-Air%20Forces/GreyFoxMissileFrigate-1.jpg) Frigates and six Missile (http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t69/zxc_047/Imperial%20MT%20Navy-Army-Air%20Forces/JackalMissileDestroyer-1.jpg)Destroyers cruise in International Waters just out side Sudova waters as a Higgins (http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t69/zxc_047/Imperial%20MT%20Navy-Army-Air%20Forces/ImperialNavyHigginsJclassLandingCra.jpg)J class head for a beach where someone would be waiting to greet the Offcier who was on the boat

sorry, rough night at work. I'm going to have to delay some of the 'off thread' material for a later date and...well...just play for a bit. Um, Rechburg, I know it's been a bit draggy, but please don't rush ahead just yet? the timing of the 'confrontation' was only a few seconds, not quite long enough to go rushing out into the unknown in a refitted '58 Sulov.

Sarah finally smiled, and with a gesture, led Ambassador Wilson to the table. "have a seat, Mister Wilson." she said, "This is Ambassador Foy from the Duchy of Rechburg-we were just discussing some possibilities for Trade. You must agree, a strong economic back is needed to support any useful improvements in military capability?" She said, adding a smile that didn't quite meet her eyes. "Currently, for instance, there are a number of areas in the City itself which are...unsuitable...for any sort of official use. I've been working on setting up an international district for Embassies, not just for one or two nations, but possibly for more than that-My worry, and the reason we're all meeting HERE, is that I will NOT have what Grandfather had, with the Soviets on one end of the street, and the Yanks on the other, and my people caught in the middle of THEIR war."


"Well my government has its basis on military capability alone, the government of ralkovia acts as a two part system with our neighbors to the norths, Dwarfonovia, and a protectorate to the south Ruthmenostan. Dwarfonovia's people all believe in the religion of Earthism and won't kill a fly let alone a human. They instead spend all their time mining or farming. Unfortunately they are located on one of the best valued lands in the world, they have a believed amount of 600 billion barrels of oil, gold, silver, iron, coal, precious gems, fertile lands, you name it they have it. We act as a partner they help us with food and minerals and we protect them from the countless attacks by nations out for profit. We have a happy relationship with them.

Ralkovia on the other hand makes advances in technology, war and medicine and what not. For example," he said turning his neck a big bump was implanted on his spine, it was covered in skin but a machine could be seen. A tube led from that machine to where the juggular should have been.
"I was fighting against one of the nations that tried to take Dwarfonovia's wealth and a shrapnel cut through my chest completely destroying my heart, a normally fatal wound, ralkovian medical technology saved me, this is a second heart that attaches to my jugular vein and pumps blood. We have technology capable of regrowing entire organs from a person without the risk of rejection. I shouldn't be telling you this but we are even completing a way to regrow eyes, though this is a riskier procedure due to the fact that the eye needs to be reattached to the brain if optical nerves are dead. While are technological advances are what makes us the big brother of nations who need help we often become overpopulated, Ralkovia more or less is just made up of a mutualistic symbiosis. Someone needs a protector, ralkovia needs to loosen up land and everybody is happy. Ralkovia is spread out upon hundreds of colonies, protectorates, and friendly nations."

"You have a very interesting offer, Mister Wilson." Sarah countered, "and no doubt, many nations our size would leap at it without so much as a questioning glance." She poured her own drink, and looked up at the Ralkovian. "We're not them. You're looking at me, and imagining some kind of war-wound battle scarring, perhaps? Some tale of derring-do against armed foes, and insufficient medical tech to clean up the marks afterward?" she snorted, "Mister Wilson, I gave my eye, and what looks I might've been blessed with in the name of a Tradition..." she downed the thick, black beer as if it were a watery, lesser beverage, "... a Tradition you would consider, no doubt, to be silly, vulgar perhaps. I believe the term is anachronistic." She lowered the tankard, "We value our Identity, Mister Wilson... we've already fought a civil war over it...have a drink, please, if you don't, you'll be insulting my hospitality, and that would be...unfortunate for the chances of future dealings." She sighed, and glanced at the clock.
Oh Grandfather, how did you manage it?

Downstairs...

"...right this way, sirs." Staff Sgt. Liam Lowry said, giving a quick glance at Lance Corporal Kurtz. The Lynions didn't seem to be offended that the civilian foreign-office people had been replaced by Military personnel, and he didn't want to rock the boat. at least, if they're going to be insulted, it'll be for the right reasons, instead of being insulted because they were dealing with amatuers. He mused as the silent-walking killers passed through the halls, besides, these are a rough looking bunch.

The one introduced as Taishi-Ci seemed to be floating in the kind of airy aplomb one would expect from a senior officer, while the man he pegged as the chief bodyguard-Rathma...what a strange name. seemed to be trying to see everywhere at once-Like we do, every time Her Majesty goes out in public...

Something about the Lynion's bodyguard detail made his scars want to twitch-a danger-signal that, other than Her Majesty's standing orders, would have made him order the men stripped to their fillings before he'd let them in. Gods this is a BAD, BAD idea. His subconscious fussed. Orders, and Her Majesty's Agenda...if we're wrong, sending the wrong signal can get us all killed. If we're right, then may the gods assure she fights well enough to be among the chosen.

He'd stopped a couple of bullets for Her Majesty already, and with this many foreigners, foreigners clearly Warriors, He was certain in his bones that this was a powder keg of terrible consequences.

"Turn left, you'll see the lounge." he said, as they reached the top of the stairs, "I have other duties." and he saluted Taishi-Ci.

Sarah turned and looked at Ambassador Foy. "Ambassador, Your offer of a trade agreement is quite in line with what we're looking for." she said, "Provided we have something of equal value to offer in exchange."

Ambassador Foy stepped forward

"Your majesty in the first instance we would as I explained earlier base the trade agreement on investment within your country. Our Corporations and investors would buy into or help start companies that will help Sudova prosper. We dont simply seek majority positions in your companies, that is neither beneficial to us or Sudova.
In our experience as your nations infrastructure and capital markets increase, our returns from investments will increase correspondingly.
In situations where a wealthy nation comes into a lesser developed nation and demands majority holdings in companies, we have found the level of national growth is far inferior as to those nations who have incentives to develop their companies and thus their economies. When your manafactures have the investors and the expertise involved in their companies, they will expand because your markets will expand, so in a way its a self fulfilling enterprise.
In the second instance we would look to buy raw materials, namely wood and aluminium sands, but also agriculture such as meat and fibre. All of which are in decreasing levels in Rechburg, if we are able to develop Aluminium smelters here, then so much the better; the same for timber and pulp mills.

Our education corporations will send experts to Sudova so your educators, you can direct us into the areas of culture you want developed into your education system, we will show you the areas of commerce and technologies that you should develop. We will build schools, universities and Polytechs, under the same system used in rechburg, that is a private enterprise system, perhaps where your Government can be a shareholder for example.

As your products become comparable to modern economies, you will find no lack of markets opening up to you, including of course Rechburg. Quality goods bring higher prices and quality markets, quite simply your majesty your economy has little to offer a modern world, so we need to get your nation upskilled so you can compete.

So you see your majesty our policy in trade agreements is we dont simply want to buy your goods, and leave you still in a situation of stagnation, we want your nation to develop so we gain in returns from our investments.
In the initial stage we will sell you technologies in a barter system, thus saving your capital for investment.
If you require defence equipment and modernisation we will comply with your wishes and assist you, however we would Im sure encourage you to enter a mutual defence agreement so we can help defend your new growing nation."

.....

Downstairs...

"...right this way, sirs." Staff Sgt. Liam Lowry said, giving a quick glance at Lance Corporal Kurtz. The Lynions didn't seem to be offended that the civilian foreign-office people had been replaced by Military personnel, and he didn't want to rock the boat. at least, if they're going to be insulted, it'll be for the right reasons, instead of being insulted because they were dealing with amatuers. He mused as the silent-walking killers passed through the halls, besides, these are a rough looking bunch.

The one introduced as Taishi-Ci seemed to be floating in the kind of airy aplomb one would expect from a senior officer, while the man he pegged as the chief bodyguard-Rathma...what a strange name. seemed to be trying to see everywhere at once-Like we do, every time Her Majesty goes out in public...


Something about the Lynion's bodyguard detail made his scars want to twitch-a danger-signal that, other than Her Majesty's standing orders, would have made him order the men stripped to their fillings before he'd let them in. Gods this is a BAD, BAD idea. His subconscious fussed. Orders, and Her Majesty's Agenda...if we're wrong, sending the wrong signal can get us all killed. If we're right, then may the gods assure she fights well enough to be among the chosen.

He'd stopped a couple of bullets for Her Majesty already, and with this many foreigners, foreigners clearly Warriors, He was certain in his bones that this was a powder keg of terrible consequences.

"Turn left, you'll see the lounge." he said, as they reached the top of the stairs, "I have other duties." and he saluted Taishi-Ci.


'Poor guy,' thought Rathma to himself as they went through the hallways. 'Must be scared of us,'

Taishi Ci was following the staff sarge through the hallways as they climbed up the staircase. It was interesting seeing what other countries did for introduction to their leader. He found it odd how they went through three different people. Then again, they were new and they were just stating off. They were like Lynion when they first started off with. When they reached the top of the staircase...

"Turn left, you'll see the lounge." the staff sarge said, as they reached the top of the stairs, "I have other duties." and the staff sarge saluted Taishi Ci who saluted back.

They waited for the man to leave them when Rathma smiled for a moment and followed Taishi Ci to the lounge room. They quietly sat down and loosen up a little when Rathma realised something.

"Take this for a moment," started Rathma as he handed his rifle to Longshanks.

Rathma opened his cloak and then his shirt to expose metal armour plating. The armour wasn't shining but it kept together until it came to one point. A 9mm bullet had smashed itself into the armour without causing damage. Longshanks handed him a bayonet and Rathma pop the bullet out of his armour before covering it again.

"The bastard got a little close when he fired his pistol," laughed Rathma as he did his shirt and cloak up again.

"What happen to him?" asked Taishi Ci as Longshanks handed Rathma his rifle back.

"Decapitated the bastard," answered Rathma as he placed his rifle under his cloak and over his back.

Taishi Ci pulled out a deck of cards and started to shaffle them. The others watched their king shaffle before he started to deal. Rathma was handed his five cards and he studied them for a moment.

'Hmm...Taishi Ci is a shocking dealer,' thought Rathma to himself. 'Just gave me a High Straight,' They went through the process of playing the game before it came to the betting. Since they didn't have anything to bet, they waited to see which one would crack. Sadly, Taishi Ci took a deep breath and folded.

"3 Tens," smiled Longshanks as the others dropped their cards. "I win,"

"Incorrect, I've got a High Straight," smiled Rathma as Taishi Ci took the cards while Longshanks laughed at rathma.

"You have a very interesting offer, Mister Wilson." Sarah countered, "and no doubt, many nations our size would leap at it without so much as a questioning glance." She poured her own drink, and looked up at the Ralkovian. "We're not them. You're looking at me, and imagining some kind of war-wound battle scarring, perhaps? Some tale of derring-do against armed foes, and insufficient medical tech to clean up the marks afterward?" she snorted, "Mister Wilson, I gave my eye, and what looks I might've been blessed with in the name of a Tradition..." she downed the thick, black beer as if it were a watery, lesser beverage, "... a Tradition you would consider, no doubt, to be silly, vulgar perhaps. I believe the term is anachronistic." She lowered the tankard, "We value our Identity, Mister Wilson... we've already fought a civil war over it...have a drink, please, if you don't, you'll be insulting my hospitality, and that would be...unfortunate for the chances of future dealings." She sighed, and glanced at the clock.
Oh Grandfather, how did you manage it?

(Williams)
"Then why do you try and hide it with a glass eye? There are strains in the skin normal people who just wear an eye covering don't have. It comes from trying to force something into an eye socket. Why do you think people who are overweight have the most wrinkles around their mouth? As for your traditions, we know. We ralkovians may not embraces the fancies of culture, but we do understand that culture is important to other nations. We've learned to either tolerate culture, religion, and politics or make no progress at all. And while you may think your tradition is anachronistic, it is far less brutal then most of ours. Thank you," he said taking the drink and taking a gulp."Ralkovia is not interested in jumping up and getting in the way of any bullets for Sudova, if it is not in our best interest. Ralkovia is going to give Sudova the means to fight for itself and gain experienced soldiers."

( bump )

at the reception...

Sarah chuckled a bit, "Touche', Ambassador..." she said, "Your agents are quite good." she reached into a fold of her cloak, and laid the glass eye on the table, "Though I guess I should not have been surprised-after all, the makers are headquartered in Dwarfonia, and it was quite probably a part and parcel of your preparation briefing...were you surprised when I was not wearing it?"

Williams gave her what she interpreted as a slight, polite, nod of assent.

She continued, "I was reminded as I was preparing for the evening that while I might wish to, as they say, 'look my best', that there are...socially conservative elements who would take the presence and wear of such a bauble rather badly. I'm supposed to wear the scars openly-those who rule have the least freedom of all."

........

Sarah unrolled a map, as one of the Sudovan soldiers, wearing the same dress uniform, but with Pilot's wings, walked up. "Ma'am." he saluted.

"Major, where are the delegation from Lynion?" she asked, "I can see their aircraft outside..."

"Playing cards in the hall, Ma'am." he said, "That is...was, what I was coming to inform you."

"Major, since Ambassador Foy, and Mister Williams are already here, and I intend to complete tonight's business, I would recommend you inform them that they are awaited-and that any discourtesies they may feel they have endured were entirely unintended." Sarah's tone was back down in that grating register. The soldier hurried away. Sarah inclined her head in apology to Foy, and then to Williams. "I apologize for the interruption, gentlemen. I'm afraid I still have to lean a great deal on the military for normal civil-service tasks." A steward cleared the plates away.
"Now, this is the map for our planned international district, where, I am hoping, you will do us the honour of constructing embassies..."


Major Paris Hughsman hurried out of the Lounge. pissed her off right, gotta remember to send the NCO's or something... He nodded to the guards at the door, stepped around the newsmen, typing busily at their portables, and around to the corridor the Lynion delegate and his men were playing cards.

He stopped for a moment, "Um...Sirs? She is awaiting your presence-" he said. One of the Lynions looked up at him. gods, how did Lindt handle that look? "The Princepes Sarah, is ready to meet the Taishi Ci, and provide him and his entourage with Hospitality by the old code." He said, and added, nervously, "She's rather in an impatient mood...If you would follow please?"

Hughesman turned, hoping they would follow, and wishing like hell he hadn't been put on 'light duty'-dealing with foreigners from the cockpit of a fighter is one thing-something he'd trained for. Dealing with the men in person-now THAT was terrifying...

Sarah continued after the Major departed, "Mister Foy, Instead of taking on my MILITARY personnel, I rather think I'd like to send some of my civil service people to your land to be educated. Mister Williams, your offer of a supporting alliance is quite interesting to me-particularly in terms of improving training and equipment for my own forces-however, I am not entirely certain that simply cloning (even with minor differences) the military styles of yet another patron is going to keep me alive long enough for my people to realize a benefit-however, a military alliance, with liason, training, and some material assistance can be beneficial for each of us, so long as local primacy is maintained, and we retain our autonomy in terms of whether, when, where, and how we fight-and under whose orders-after all, I may find it of benefit to make additional outside arrangements that may not be popular with your leaders at a later time, as you may make some alliances that my people find...repulsive." she stroked the rope-scars on her neck, "First always, to begin at small things, then to work toward grand things. Too much change at once makes for a shorter span."

ooc seeing you too busy ,no point sticking around

ooc: sorry, Imperial Isa, maybe next time. I actually got a bit of a 'flowing of time' going and it just wasn't going to work so well at this point.

Anyone that isn't too terribly pissed off... Sarah's 'game' should be obvious at this point-she's getting (or trying to get) all the respondents in the same room. She wants to see how prospective allies and trade-partners treat one another, and pick out the ones that will best work with HER national goals and policies.

anyway, I'm up too late, and off to bed...[/ooc]

ooc my nation don't mix with any you talking with and there no next time as i don't have any main Characters free like the one now ,as they going to be busy with taking back a colony

ans i don't think she get along with Stratocracy Monarchy Government

'I'll fold with nothing," started Longshanks as he put his cards down.

"Two Jack's," frowned a dissappointed Mac as he folded.

"I'm out," stated Jaxson as he returned his cards who had 3 Kings.

"Count me," finished Olive who have 3 Ace's.

"Looks like its down to me and you sire," smiled Rathma. "Sure you want to play?"

"Umm..." replied Taishi Ci as he took a breathe. "Err...I'll fold..." He had four Fives.

"Must be the perfect bluff," smiled Rathma as he showed his hands. "two Queen's,"

The Lynion's sighed as Taishi Ci took the cards while Rathma took the small cash pot of $200. Taishi Ci was about to shuffle the cards again when a diplomat of the local government appeared to them. Rathma looked up for a moment at the diplomat who seemed to be nervous unless he was mistaken. Nevertheless, he made a bluff with the others in poker and things were about to change.

"Um...Sirs? She is awaiting your presence-" The man said. "The Princepes Sarah, is ready to meet the Taishi Ci, and provide him and his entourage with Hospitality by the old code." He said, and added, obviously nervously, "She's rather in an impatient mood...If you would follow please?"

"Jaxson..." started Rathma.

"Wait a moment Rathma," interupted Taishi Ci as Rathma turned to face him. "I perfer that you act as my bodyguard instead of the others,"

"Sire?" questioned Rathma. "We usually take it in turns too..."

"And you haven't actted as a diplomat bodyguard as far as I know," interupted Taishi Ci which caught Rathma off guard.

"True," replied Rathma as he tried not to show the embrassement. "When we go inside, the four of you will step back against the wall and keep an eye on everyone. Remember, our only goal is to make sure that Taishi Ci discusses the deal with the Sudovian's. If anyone mucks up, I'll find a suitable punishment for them," finished Rathma.

"Yes sir," replied the others in unionism.

Taishi Ci followed the man through the hallways as the Lynion Assassin's managed to catch up with him with ease. Rathma was close to Taishi Ci while the other four made the outline of a box around them with at least a fair distance between each corner. Rathma had read the offer Vamp had offered to the Sudovians. He wasn't a diplomat person nor was he interested in politics. However, he always made sure where his men were going and the offer seemed fair. He took a mental note about what the man had said earlier.

"She's rather in an impatient mood..."

This meant that either the staff had ticked her off big time or there was someone else making them an offer. Taishi Ci could tell what Rathma was thinking and started to think about the offer that Vamp had offered to the Sudovians. If the Lynion Offer was accepted, then Taishi Ci knew deep down, Rathma would be the first to jump to the Command Post. Rathma needed the post to complete his training as a League Grand Master.

The group eventually caught up with the major who looked to be nervous either from the Lynion's or from the boss. Jaxson noticed how nervous the major was and dug deep into one of his side pockets for something. jaxson remembered putting them there from his pervious winnings of poker with his squad. He was sure he didn't misplace them or they were stolen. He eventually found a packet of cigarettes, pulled them out and looked at the major was they were walking through corridor. He then quietly and quickly placed them in the hand of the major before he went back to his position.

'The major needs to settle his nerves,' thought Jaxson to himself as he looked around and then noticed Longshanks was about to pass the newsmen. As long the newsmen didn't annoy Mac or Longshanks, then the diplomat mission would go quietly and...non-violent. He couldn't remember what happen that night when they found Mac and Longshanks. Then again, the newsmen and the reporters were never found. Jaxson glanced at Rathma for a moment and prayed that the the passing was to go peacefully.

Longshanks suddenly noticed the newsmen typing at their portables. He watched them with caution as memories swam through his mind. They weren't the same ones, they weren't the ones. He kept that going through his mind when they eventually enter the presence of the Sudovian Government Leadership.

OOC: I hope you don't mind me adding the last sentence.

Foy understood her majesty's reluctance to set up schools and universities immediately, and she was quite right to bring her country into the modern world slowly, so that social disruption was kept to a minimum.

He looked at the map and noted the area for the new Rechburg Embassy.

"Your Majesty, we will follow your lead in these matters, quite rightly you know your people well and know full well the amount of change they will accept.
Your civil service people will always be welcome in Rechburg, I know my Duke would be most pleased to know you have placed so much faith in us.
I would ask that we may offer an exhange of civil personal, for Rechburg especially, it is vital for our diplomatic and business leaders to understand your Sudovan culture. Perhaps we can send you the people who will operate the embassy to learn your customs and cultures, in that way they will be able to brief our business and political leaders.

Sarah continued after the Major departed, "Mister Foy, Instead of taking on my MILITARY personnel, I rather think I'd like to send some of my civil service people to your land to be educated. Mister Williams, your offer of a supporting alliance is quite interesting to me-particularly in terms of improving training and equipment for my own forces-however, I am not entirely certain that simply cloning (even with minor differences) the military styles of yet another patron is going to keep me alive long enough for my people to realize a benefit-however, a military alliance, with liason, training, and some material assistance can be beneficial for each of us, so long as local primacy is maintained, and we retain our autonomy in terms of whether, when, where, and how we fight-and under whose orders-after all, I may find it of benefit to make additional outside arrangements that may not be popular with your leaders at a later time, as you may make some alliances that my people find...repulsive." she stroked the rope-scars on her neck, "First always, to begin at small things, then to work toward grand things. Too much change at once makes for a shorter span."

"Ralkovia maintains good conduct with nations, partially because of the fact that ralkovia's enemies don't exist long. A military alliance is fine with us, though you will have to "marry" the emperor. Its not an actual marriage its more of a marriage of nations. Its a tradition ralkovia holds with many of its allies, rather than signing a peace of paper saying we are allies. Our leader and you shall meet and hold hands symbolizing the two people coming together and then you are on your separate ways.
Ralkovia has some gifts that its hopes will help you bring you into at least current times."

Saint Alexander City, Rathanan

Minister of Diplomacy Quintus Octavius Lepidus sat at his desk thumbing through the giant stack of papers that were waiting for him when he arrived at work that morning. After he signed a request for more diplomatic staff in another embassy, Quintus found the telegram from Sudova announcing its entrance into the international community. He looked at it for a minute and slowly picked up his phone and punched in a phone number.

"New Relations Department, Fulvia speaking." A bored female voice answered.

"This is Minister Lepidus, I need to talk to you about this message from Sudova."

"Oh! Ummmm..." Fulvia stammered. "Y-y-yes, interesting proposition, sir..."

"Yes, yes, it is... When did this come in?" Lepidus asked as he lit up a cigar.

"A few days ago, sir..."

"Did you get any intel on this nation?"

"No, they were completely isolated until now... The Areani ((basically Rathanan's CIA)) did not have them high on their list for gathering intel... So we basically know nothing about them."

There was a brief silence as Minister Lepidus thought.

"Well, I suppose it's time we found some things out... We're not going to make any commitments that could end up costing us until we have more certainty... I'll respond to this one myself." Lepidus said at last. "Good bye." He added as he hung up.


To: Government of Sudova

From: Q. Octavius Lepidus, Minister of Diplomacy, The Holy Imperial Republic of Rathanan

Salutations from the Holy Emperor and Holy Imperial Senate of Rathanan! We would very much like to open diplomatic talks with Sudova and prehaps arrange for an embassy exchange.

(bump)

""Your Majesty, we will follow your lead in these matters, quite rightly you know your people well and know full well the amount of change they will accept.
Your civil service people will always be welcome in Rechburg, I know my Duke would be most pleased to know you have placed so much faith in us.
I would ask that we may offer an exhange of civil personal, for Rechburg especially, it is vital for our diplomatic and business leaders to understand your Sudovan culture. Perhaps we can send you the people who will operate the embassy to learn your customs and cultures, in that way they will be able to brief our business and political leaders." Foy paused for a moment.

Sarah nodded, "Quite right, Though upgrades to our schools-particularly new knowledge, would be of great benefit to our nation." she favoured him a smile that seemed to touch her good eye. "The exchange would be best-after all, we have as much to learn of you, as you may have to learn of us. I believe the terms you outline are quite acceptable."

She turned to listen to Williams...""Ralkovia maintains good conduct with nations, partially because of the fact that ralkovia's enemies don't exist long. A military alliance is fine with us, though you will have to "marry" the emperor. Its not an actual marriage its more of a marriage of nations. Its a tradition ralkovia holds with many of its allies, rather than signing a peace of paper saying we are allies. Our leader and you shall meet and hold hands symbolizing the two people coming together and then you are on your separate ways.
Ralkovia has some gifts that its hopes will help you bring you into at least current times."

Sarah listened, and a thought half-formed, only to be interrupted...

"The Lynion Ambassador, Honourable Taishi-Ci, and entourage." Major Hughesman announced, Herald-like. It wasn't according to Sudovan protocols, at least, the ones that had been in the briefing packets gathered by Rechburger or Ralkovian intelligence and foreign-service personnel. Indeed, Sarah herself looked up, her response to Williams cut off by the announcement.

Hughesman! what are you playing at? Sarah knew-When a Clan leader's guests looked to be assassins, the gatesman would announce them loudly, and clearly, so that all would bear witness to their actions (and more importantly, that all would be on guard against treachery or violence). Obviously, the Lynions look more dangerous than mister Williams and his Death Guard for some reason... What she had to do-to avoid an international incident, was to re-inforce to the guests that they WERE guests, and would be treated as such-and that they would NOT be treated as potential assassins.

Sarah reached into the darkness, and found what she needed. Show them strength.

The small breach of custom was a clear signal to the security personnel in the room. Subtly, the musicians shifted tempo to something slightly less complicated, the few non-militant retainers in the room moved slightly closer to 'safe' positions unlikely to be struck by random fire, and the Princepes herself seemed to shift back into the almost unnatural calm she'd shown earlier.

"Bring a seat for the Lynion representative, place it-" she gestured to the right of Williams, "Here. His men may take their ease." The message-the grating in her voice, wasn't for the foreigners this time-it was directed at her own. "The Foreign Representatives are my guests. I will brook no rudeness, Major, nor the slightest hint of an unwelcome reception."

The Lynions entered the room, as Sarah's baleful one-eyed gaze seemed to push the Stewards into making the arrangement of table-seating.

"Mister Williams, I will, I think, meet with your leader." she said-her timbre was smoothed over, "But before I grasp even a ceremonial Marraige, I will know him first-not merely a name and a file put together by an atrophied foreign service, but as a man. My people place great store in such things, and do not treat them lightly."

Saint Alexander City, Rathanan

Minister of Diplomacy Quintus Octavius Lepidus sat at his desk thumbing through the giant stack of papers that were waiting for him when he arrived at work that morning. After he signed a request for more diplomatic staff in another embassy, Quintus found the telegram from Sudova announcing its entrance into the international community. He looked at it for a minute and slowly picked up his phone and punched in a phone number.

"New Relations Department, Fulvia speaking." A bored female voice answered.

"This is Minister Lepidus, I need to talk to you about this message from Sudova."

"Oh! Ummmm..." Fulvia stammered. "Y-y-yes, interesting proposition, sir..."

"Yes, yes, it is... When did this come in?" Lepidus asked as he lit up a cigar.

"A few days ago, sir..."

"Did you get any intel on this nation?"

"No, they were completely isolated until now... The Areani ((basically Rathanan's CIA)) did not have them high on their list for gathering intel... So we basically know nothing about them."

There was a brief silence as Minister Lepidus thought.

"Well, I suppose it's time we found some things out... We're not going to make any commitments that could end up costing us until we have more certainty... I'll respond to this one myself." Lepidus said at last. "Good bye." He added as he hung up.


To: Government of Sudova

From: Q. Octavius Lepidus, Minister of Diplomacy, The Holy Imperial Republic of Rathanan

Salutations from the Holy Emperor and Holy Imperial Senate of Rathanan! We would very much like to open diplomatic talks with Sudova and prehaps arrange for an embassy exchange.

To: Q. Octavius Lepidus, Minister of Diplomacy, Holy Imperial Republic of Rathanan

From: Sir Ector, Foreign Minister, Sudova

RE: Offer of Embassy exchange

While you are several days late to attend her Majesty's first multinational summit, I have recieved standing orders to expedite requests from Nations wishing to enter into full diplomatic and Ambassadorial contact. Please limit initial contact staffing to a small group, with only defensive arms, until your Embassy site is ready to be constructed (we will, naturally, do the same).

Once the site has been selected, and you have made ready to begin construction, you may either contract out the labor locally, or bring in labour and equipment. Please keep all construction equipment to non-military items for the duration of construction. Once your Embassy and Compound are judged by yourselves to be ready for your staff, you may staff as you wish, so long as less than a single Battalion of military personnel comprise your total military contingent, without heavy weapons unless and until suitable coequal agreements have been made and appropriate treaties signed. (confine your Embassy guards to light infantry armed with small arms, please.)

Thank you, and good-day.

Sir Ector.

Rathma was careful with his movement as he kept his hands at his side. The others had decided to stay in the lounge and contiune on with thier game of poker. Just before they entered the room, he patched his ear piece to transmit to the others. The idea was based on security for the pair in case something went wrong.

"Getting this Longshanks?" whispered Rathma to himself as the ear piece picked up his chatter.

"Sure thing boss," replied Longshanks voice.

Taishi Ci and Rathma soon entered the room and Rathma quickly noticed how the civilians quickly took a couple of steps back from Taishi Ci and Rathma which sought of made Rathma curious. He quickly scanned the room at the other personal in the room before he settled down. His rifle was hidden safely under his coat and his pistol on the side of his belt that was covered by his coat. This was going to be the most simple job he ever done.

'Just take a seat Taishi Ci, wait to be spoken and make the offer simple,' thought Rathma to himself as he stood a metre away from Taishi Ci. The pair noticed the change in music as the modd changed.

Taishi Ci quietly sat down at the seat he was offered. Rathma had started to notice the others ambassadors. Then it occured to him. Why would the Sudovian want all of the ambassadors in one room? It couldn't have being about comparing the offers. It would be something else. Rathma looked down at Taishi Ci for a moment and then looked back at the surrounding people.

'As long there's no insults, this mission is going to be straight forward,' thought Rathma to himself. 'That woman... she has a glass eye,'

"Mister Williams, I will, I think, meet with your leader." she said-her timbre was smoothed over, "But before I grasp even a ceremonial Marraige, I will know him first-not merely a name and a file put together by an atrophied foreign service, but as a man. My people place great store in such things, and do not treat them lightly."

"Very well, I shall set up a meeting then for you, Mrs. Sarah we can talk about that later tonight," Williams said. The death guard had taken notice of the Lynions even before they were announced. The Death Guard still had acute hearing even without the amplifiers in their helmets. The death guard also noticed the change in tempo of the music and growled to one another lightly in an incomprehensible language.

As the Lynion now named as 'Taishi Ci' sat down, Sarah fiddled and tumbled the glass eye in her fingers. The wounding in her eyesocket itched, but digging at the scar tissue would, she knew, disgust most of her guests.

"I greatly appreciate this visit by the Kingdom of Lynion's representative, Taishi Ci, to your left, is Ambassador Williams, of the Ralkovian Empire, and to your right, Ambassador Foy of the Duchy of Rechburg, whom are also my guests tonight." She stood up, to her full five feet, four inches. "Our traditions are, perhaps quaint, gentlemen, and clearly my foreign service people did a poor job explaining how this works. This is a So'cha Tai, a first-meeting of some importance, for we have opened our house to outsiders after a long winter. A successful feast here, will guarantee success in other endeavours, including any success in trade or alliances."

She poured a beverage into four cups. "Trust." she said, and placed a cup in front of each of the foreign representatives. "It is said that the Persians were the only society to finalize a decision made sober, after discussing it over drinks...but those who say such things are fundamentally in error. I can make no treaty with anyone who will not have a drink with me-it is our custom, going back millenia, and formalized in Law when the Clans realized that Invaders could only be stopped by united actions, and that united actions are founded on trust." She placed the pitcher back over the small fire, "Poisoning was common then, and having a drink with someone without exchanging the cup, or having it tasted first, was a sign of both sincerity, and of fundamental trust..." She eyed Williams, "...Trust, that is, and Courage, which was considered then, and is, I understand still considered, a key marker for Any military alliance."

She cradled her cup of heated meade, "The drink is made from honey, heather, and other herbs, and I assure you, it will not send you to either Asgard, or Hel...though I apologize in advance for the taste, for it is a touch too sweet for my own palate. Once you've all had a drink with me, the doors will close, and we can begin negotiations in earnest, at least, until the Keg runs dry."


[The drink isn't poisoned, but it is very, very, strong. Alcohol is often referred to as "the first Truth Serum". Sarah's people actually DO conduct this ceremony when they're negotiating something SERIOUS-those states with access to records of contact pre-1989 will note that the drinking contest is a kind of ceremony, and that not drinking with one's host means the deal's probably not going to be signed.

So'cha Tai actually translates as "Ending the Feud."]

'Ohh crap,' thought Rathma to himself as he looked at Taishi Ci for a glance before looking at the Sudovian Leader. 'Ci is going to be knocked out if he isn't careful,'

Taishi Ci listened to the Sudovian as he took care with the glass he was given. He looked at the liquid for a moment as he sniffed it to smell the fragence. It smelt...just like any other spirit he's drunken in the past. He took hold of the cup as he realised Rathma wasn't going to be allowed to taste it for him. He didn't bother to glance at Rathma at all when he glanced at the cup. Taishi Ci thought about it for a moment and couldn't help himself but he took one quick sip.

'Woo!' thought Taishi Ci to himself as he tried to keep his face straight. 'That's bloody strong,'

"You have an interesting brew for an alocholic spirit especially when it comes to the ingedients," commented Taishi Ci. "I just have one question: is heather a type of herb or a spice of some sort?" asked Taishi Ci as he drank some more.


OOC: I presumed we have our characters drink and presume everyone drank together. If I'm mistaken, I can edit this. Also, Taishi Ci is a bit weak when it comes to drinking alochol. So, I'm telling everyone before it happens or if it happens.

( Well poison doesn't effect ralkovians much. Since one of the favorite treats of a rakovian is eating activated charcoal with sugar and honey on it, which neutralizes most poisons. Its pretty disgusting but its like eating oreo's to them.)

The Ralkovian only smiled at her, the death guard watched over the seen. Never missing a single thing. Each death guards mind was a cruel calculator factoring in where each person would move if an enemy started shooting or what targets were closest to the best defensive spots so the death guard could take them out first. The Death Guard were the body of the Ralkovian Monarchy, each one capable of taking out many more enemies, capable of doing untold horror to the enemy, capable of so many things.

Williams took a swig of his drink, it didn't matter, the small detection machine on the side of his mouth didn't beep letting him know it wasn't poison,"Tradition, what a wonderful thing, a people stymied in a tradition will maintain a culture, whether that tradition makes it strong or weak, competent or ignorant, a utopia or a nightmare is to debate, for a society stymied in tradition will often repeat its mistakes and its successes," Empress Hironas, 40th Empress of ralkovia.

To: Q. Octavius Lepidus, Minister of Diplomacy, Holy Imperial Republic of Rathanan

From: Sir Ector, Foreign Minister, Sudova

RE: Offer of Embassy exchange

While you are several days late to attend her Majesty's first multinational summit, I have recieved standing orders to expedite requests from Nations wishing to enter into full diplomatic and Ambassadorial contact. Please limit initial contact staffing to a small group, with only defensive arms, until your Embassy site is ready to be constructed (we will, naturally, do the same).

Once the site has been selected, and you have made ready to begin construction, you may either contract out the labor locally, or bring in labour and equipment. Please keep all construction equipment to non-military items for the duration of construction. Once your Embassy and Compound are judged by yourselves to be ready for your staff, you may staff as you wish, so long as less than a single Battalion of military personnel comprise your total military contingent, without heavy weapons unless and until suitable coequal agreements have been made and appropriate treaties signed. (confine your Embassy guards to light infantry armed with small arms, please.)

Thank you, and good-day.

Sir Ector.


Ministry of Diplomacy - Saint Alexander City, Rathanan

Minister Lepidus examined the response from Sudova and nodded. "Fair enough." He muttered to himself as he turned to his computer and opened up his email.

MEMO: TO ALL UNASSIGNED AMBASSADORS

From: Q. Octavius Lepidus, Minister of Diplomacy

For those of you who haven't heard, we are opening up new diplomatic negotiations with the nation of Sudova. Seeing as I do not have a particular ambassador in mind for this assignment yet, any interested parties should send me their resume. I shall then interview all interested parties and then decide which of you to send before the Holy Imperial Senate and the Holy Emperor for final approval. Others will be put on a waiting list (in the order of my choosing) and will recieve priority placement as spots become available.

Requirements for position are as follows:

1. Interest in starting new diplomatic relations (This can either make or break your career, depending on how well you do)

2. 10 or more years experience working for the Ministry of Diplomacy (position does not matter)

3. Prior experience working in a foriegn embassy.

4. All other requirements of an ambassador still apply.

Again, all interested parties should send me their resume asap.

Pax tibi,

Q. Octavius Lepidus

Minister of Diplomacy


****

To: Sir Ector

From: Q. Octavius Lepidus, Minister of Diplomacy; Holy Imperial Republic of Rathanan

Your terms are quite fair and we agree to them. We are currently in the process of finding a suitable ambassador to send to your country and we shall inform you as soon as he or she is approved by the Holy Imperial Senate and the Holy Emperor. If this takes some time and you find a spot for our embassy beforehand, please inform us so we can send out a contracting firm to make assessments and begin building.

Pax tibi.

[ooc Dammit, drawing a blank...]

The Following morning...

Sara was still in the lounge when she woke up, hung over and aching. There were a stack of signed documents, including the trade agreements for Lynion and Rechburg, a preliminary offer of diplomatic marraige to Ralkovia's Emperor, several doodled cartoons and caricatures, a great deal of spilt alcohol, and a bullet-hole above her seat. Sara wasn't sure where the hole came from-whether it was her, or one of the bodyguards who'd taken their representatives to quarters after she'd evidently passed out.

"Ow..." She rode the hangover-it was, after all, self-inflicted in the name of tradition. She checked the documents.

"What did I agree to?" she muttered. The signatures and witness-signings looked valid.

Oh, this is going to hurt. The agreements with Rechburg and Lynion looked especially tough. The Rechburgers had effectively gained a number of trade concessions, an agreement for additional resource rights in the Northern tier territories, and some raw materials extraction rights-Okay, not quite as exploitive as grand-dad would've done. We've kept SOME of the rights there...

The Lynion treaty was a bit more..."Did I agree to That??" she stared at the document like it would coil up and strike her. Somehow, the Lynions had managed, (she recalled Taishi Ci didn't seem to hold his liquor very well) to obtain 'superiority rights' in joint military operations, and the right to conduct review-and-assessment of Sudovan military readiness in foreign operations. It was a carbon-copy of the American Agreement that had destroyed her grandfather's regime. I am so totally boned. she thought to herself as she read it...until she got to the final set of clauses.

These told her she hadn't been completely off her head. Must learn to think while drunk! The dominant clauses allowed High King Vamp to summon Sudovan military assets with a simple request and minor justification, but it also required that Sudovan troops under Lynion command not be "Misused or abandoned" and that the need had to be "Serious" before the Vampirial Kingdom would request them.

She carefully parsed the language of the document, and felt a small surge of relief-the terms required that the Lynions be under attack, that the requested forces be less than one quarter of Sudovan active duty personnel, and that the action fit under the definition of "a Just War" or other action. It also specified that Sudovan troops not be exposed needlessly to danger or abandoned once deployed. The latter was an obvious nod to the Americans' abandonment of (among other allied forces) Sudovan troops deployed to prop up their allies in Cambodia, Nicaragua, Iran, and Rhodesia during the Seventies and eighties-the treatment of Sudovan military personnel as Uncle Sam's disposeable mercenaries had been one of the primary complaints that led to her Grandfather's removal from power.

"Well, they're powerful, they probably won't ever need us." she muttered.