NationStates Jolt Archive

The Metropolitan-Regional Council Of Hydrosteria

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"We All Move The Great Chain Of Industry, And It In Turn Moves Us"

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The past seven months two weeks and three days had been ones of unrelenting turmoil. The nation had sufferred blow after blow of situations arriving from both domestic and international sources which one by one toppled the supports that had once held the govenment up upon high. It had started with a few government scandels, imbezzlement and fraud by Ministers of Parliment mostly; facts which were unveiled by confidential sources as yet unnamed by the nations leading newspaper the Inquisitor.

From there a chain reaction of more exposed corruption at the governmental level set in motion a chain of events that would topple the nation like a set of dominoes. The nation's populace believed in the "self" as one of the most important factors of their lives, they were not selfish, but Objectivists; or rather, selfish for the good of society. Hydrosteria had always advanced quickly although it often led to poverty by large sections of society and rather abstract technological solutions; with the advent of commercial ventures however and the lack of govenment regulation or taxation the economy and society as a whole had benefitted; yes an elite emerged withen society but at least the lowest level of living was up to a pleasent standard.

But Hydrosteria had grown complacent, isolated geographically from the world by being placed near the northern polar ice cap, in fact many of it's cities were covered in snow and ice instead built into bedrock, it had stagnated and diverged from the rest of the world in a number of manners; but more importantly it allowed corruption to creep into the once noble and impartial halls of governance. But like a raging river in a storm the peoples resentment eroded away at the structure of Hydrosteria itself and in their fury the populace rose up against the government.

This was not to be a proletariat revolution, or a military coup, this was the people retaking their liberty in every sense of the word; indeed, many factions of the military sided with the people in their devotion to what was right. It should have been a quick, bloodless overthrow and a return to liberty; it was not to be so.

Instead, seven months of fighting was the result as the northern island of Hydrosteria used what influence it could to blockade the progress of the revolutionaries who had seized the Southern island. At a potential stalemate the two sides launched what forces they could at each other, and Northern Hydrosteria was faced with the task of restoring public order. Both sides felt the attrition of war terribly, the supplies of gas and coal from the south stopped reaching Northern Hydrosteria and gradually the cities flickered in the polar snow storms as their thermal generators struggled to keep up with demand. The South on the other hand sufferred from food shortages as the supplies grown in the vast hydroponic farms of the North no longer reached them; each side was to suffer.

But in the end, the will of the people could not be contained, and the weakened government collapsed as it's surviving leaders either fled or were captured. Which was why Hydrosteria, a newly annointed Hydrosteria purged from it's foul corruption, now stood to announce itself to the world.

The hugely popular Winston Everd, Chancellor of the Metropolitan-Regional Council, riding on a wave of public support from his efforts of leading the nations idealogical revival in the troublesome times, sat behind his polished mahogany desk; tastefully dressed in a pinstriped navy blue suit with matching tie, gold cufflinks and his brown hair swept back he sat ready to deliver his admistrations first addressal to the nation and the international world. The camera's rolled.

"Ladies and gentlemen of our nation; fellow leaders of the world and the citizens across the globe; it is with great honour that I sit here to address you all today on this most momentous occassion. Many believed this day would never come, that Hydrosteria's relations with the outside world would remain in sync with it's geographical positioning; being placed so near to the world polar regions far from everywhere else is not a pleasent state of being. But, our people have worked hard through industry and ideaology to forge a truly strong nation, this strength may have been threatened in recent times by a corrupt administration, but the will of the people for liberty and freedom truly paid off.

And so, we stand on the edge of a new age, an age which we hope will bring the golden rays of wealth and success upon us and those whom associate with, I hope, my fellow men and women, that in the coming days our nation will come to know of others out there more intimatly than a mere name on an atlas, that trade will flow in both directions and that friendships and relations will follow. But for now, my friends, I must end my ramblings and allow you to return to your noble industrious work; to the people of the world, goodbye, for now."

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(OOC: This is a utopian soviet union, hmm, seems that "noobs" can't post images... Ah well, in anycase, i'm progressing into the world of MT, greet me with a diplomatic message declaring undieing hatred for my realm or ignore me. Whatever floats your boat :) .)

Foreign Minister Jahn Sobeck

Concerning the nation of Hydrosteria

It is with the greatest disappointment that I forced to comment of the situation in Hydrosteria. It is our sincerest belief, as spelled out by our Emperor Ramius III in his seminal work On Socialism that no socialist state can ever achieve equality. No socialist state can ever achieve economic greatness. No socialist state is free. It is with these statements in mind that the Third Empire has declared that all trade shall cease with Hydrosteria.

The Emperor himself has called upon the people of Hydrosteria to revolt against their cruel taskmasters. May the swords of freedom ring out against the oppressors. Only then, once freedom has been restored to the people of Hydrosteria shall the Third Empire reestablish any trade relations that may have existed.

To Foreign Minister Jahn Sobeck;

Concerning your letter

Dear sir, upon receiving your letter my administration was most surprised, indeed, if you had not addressed us directly we would have thought you had sent it to the wrong nation. So allow me to correct your gross assumptions on behalf of our hopefully future relations.

Hydrosteria is a pure laissez-faire capitalist state, our citizens rose up against a corrupt govenment accused of fraud and imbezllement and are mostly Objectivists in their chosen ideaology. We encourage active trade and try to keep as far away as possible from the affairs of our citizens.

We trust you will direct an apology and revoke your trade embargo against us due to your appalling intelligence.

Regards, Winston Everd, Chancellor of the Metropolitan-Regional Council

(OOC: My old nation may have been Soviet all over but it doesn't mean it's my ideaology.)

(OOC: I think I was reading something else when I made this post, but put your name in. I apologize, I'm confused now. Pretend the letter didn'thappen. Alcohol, etc.)

(OOC: A great historical start to my nation this...)

Vice-Foreign Minister Yonaton Caldo

The Third Empire of Fluffywuffy has issued a most humble apology for its foreign ministers apparant drunkenness and actions without the approval of the Emepror. (OOC: the utopian socialist connection confused me) The Emperor shall have this minister removed from office effective immediately, and the Emperor personally wishes to visit Hydrosteria in order to make up for the wrong.

To Vice-Foreign Minister Yonaton Caldo

Dear sir, the nation of Hydrosteria fully accepts your apology and bears you no ill will as a result of this honest mistake. We have noted your Emperor's desire to visit Hydrosteria and when we decide to enact some form of international informal meeting your Emperor will be one of the first notified. Wishing your nation all the best,

Winston Everd, Chancellor of the Metropolitan-Regional Council,

(OOC: No problem, my personal views went through a drastic overhaul over the past year after I started off with that nation)

The Prime Minister sat in his office going about with the daily running of the Republic. As he looked over some documents he heard a gentle knock at his door, "Come in." His Foreign Affairs Minister opened the door and entered with a Manila envelope in hand. "What’s this?" the PM asked as the Minister handed him the envelope, "It contains a brief summary of a nation called Hydrosteria."
"Hydrosteria?"
"Yes it seems they just concluded a bloody revolution with there government not to long ago. There former government was supposedly corrupt and all that." The PM opened the envelope and started scanning over the information and photographs. "Interesting nation..."
"Yes well, the Cabinet thinks you should support their new government and establish relations, but of course, it’s your call Jeff."
"Right, well thanks Richard, I'll send my response soon."
"Of course sir."

OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT PROCLAMATION
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From: Prime Minister Jeff Carson, Republic of Ustia
To: Chancellor Winston Everd

Greetings from the Republic of Ustia! I would first like to congratulate you on your successful fight; your people have truly spoken. I hope now that the conflict is over you can rebuild and make your nation better then it was before. As Prime Minister of my beloved Republic I offer you peace and friendship for the days to come. I hope that we can develop a better understanding between are nations and benefit from trade and other means. I would also like to offer the possibility of having embassies in each of are nations to increase our potential partnership. Once again I offer greetings and hope your nation grows and prospers.

Government Communique From The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

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To: Prime Minister Jeff Carson, Republic of Ustia
From: Chancellor Winston Everd Of The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

Dear sir, I wish to thank you on behalf of myself and my fellow ministers for your kind words. The people have indeed risen, and it is hoped that our nation can resume it's ways of honesty and openess without the political treachory that lurked withen our halls of governance; and with our emergence onto the internation scale it is hoped that we can exceed our previous heights.

Although our our government center is undergoing construction work to accomodate for expansions in the administration due to international dealings, including the construction of embassies, an ambassador of your relam is more that welcome to stay at one of our designated residential homes for the time being; once the construction of our embassies is completed we will allow him, or her, to move in. In return we are willing to dispatch a diplomat to your realm to help further oppertunities of trade between us.

Heres wishing your nation success in all it's endeavours.

OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT PROCLAMATION
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From: Prime Minister Jeff Carson, Republic of Ustia
To: Chancellor Winston Everd Of The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

I accept your offer and would gladly accept a diplomat from your nation as well. I do however have a small request in regards to sending an ambassador to your nation. In following with standard procedure for embassies or in this case a temporary residency I would like to send a small staff of six men and women and a small group of Marines of the same amount. Along with this I would like to bring two diplomatic vehicle's and various pieces of equipment such as computers and other basic things. I know most of these requests may seem a little redundant but I wish to be as candid as possible for my countries first diplomatic mission to your nation. I hope this first step leads to a lasting and strong friendship between are two nations.

Sincerely,
Prime Minister Jeff Carson

Minister House, PM office:

Jeff sat at his desk going over candidates for the diplomatic mission to Hydrosteria. Richard entered with a quiet knock and walked over to the PM's desk, "So, who you thinking about?"
"Well, I think somebody that grew up in Nord province should go."
"Because how cold it is up there I'm guessing?"
"Right, I think it will help if someone that is used to climates in Hydrosteria goes. Might give the Ambassador familiarity with the people there."
"Sounds like a good idea, you have anybody in mind?" Jeff turned the page of his files, "Actually, I do." he held up a file containing a man named Lukas Hainsworth. Richard grabbed the file and started skimming threw it. "Huh, his a Wallis-Kind (Valais child)"
"Exactly." Richard started looking at the file in more detail, "Says here he served with the 10th Extreme Combat Environment Division and served as the Ustian Representative to the WA (World Assembly) for a few years." The PM smiled, "Looks like we found our man."

Government Communique From The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

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To: Prime Minister Jeff Carson, Republic of Ustia
From: Chancellor Winston Everd Of The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

With regard to your requests relating to the staff you specified we have no qualms about allowing both diplomatic and security personnell into our nation; in preperation for your arrival we have rented the thirteenth floor of the Entrepreneur Hotel which is located on the fourth to nineteenth floor of the Havempshirk Building. The floor consists of seven apartments with an elevator system connecting it to the other floors of the Havempshirk Building; the building itself is located adjacent to the Administrative Center Building.

With regard to your two diplomatic vehicle's if they are of any type other than electric then they will not be allowed withen any of our Interiuom Zones which includes the city in which you will be located. This is due to our nations unique architectural nature, or cities, streets, roads and homes are built withen collosal, wide based, sky scrapers; as such, our cities are built "outside in" as you can imagine having dangerous gas emitters withen a sealed environment is dangerous to not only our citizens well being but your also. Although a perfectly suitable transport system is present throughout the city of interest, and the paths and streets are perfectly safe due to essentially being large expansive corridors, we are willing to provide you with two Hydrosterian made electric vehicle's which are of high quality in terms of performance and asthetic appearance. As a sign of goodwill our administration is willing to pay for accomodation and the usual anemities required and running of the two vehicle's. You are allowed to bring the items of which you requested and others.

On one last question of note, if your ambassador wishes to bring family, will he be bringing children? If so, please inform us so we can make inquiries on his behalf if he wishes his children to be taught in a Hydrosterian school or at home; all schools are private but again the administration is prepared to pay for the costs.

With best regards, Chancellor Winston Everd

(OOC: Fancy a meet and greet tour of Hydrosteria? Quite a site, rather Bioshock steampunk, radiators lining the streets ;))

A gentle amount of snow fell on the city of Valais. Despite it being the month of April, Nord Province continued to have a good amount of snow days, partially due to the Valais Mountain range a few miles away and of course the fact that the province was quiet far north. In the middle of this beautiful snowfall, Lukas was driving home from his job at the provincial capitol building. He lived just outside of the city in a nice quaint log home with his wife Abigail and his two sons Benjamin (8) and Markus. (10) They had just move to Valais after one of Lukas's old army buddies had offered him a staff job in the city. Lukas agreed of course and his family and him have been enjoying the decision ever since. Lukas made a left turn and started climbing up the slight hill towards his driveway. He noticed his kids playing hockey with their friends on the frozen lake in the backyard and smiled. His garage door slowly opened as he pushed the button on his remote and started to park his car inside. His wife was relaxing in the living room watching her daily soap operas on TV as he walked into the house. She turned and smiled at him, "Hello dear, how was work?"
"Same old, same old."
"How’s Kurt doing?"
"A little stressed out with his new bill, but his alright I guess."
"I swear politics is going to kill him someday." A smirk appeared on Lukas's face, "Well I seem to be doing fine."
"Yeah well, Kurt wasn't a lieutenant either."
"True." Lukas took off his coat and winter cap and poured himself a glass of water. As he walked back to the living room he heard the doorbell ring, "I'll get it,” he said. Lukas walked up to the door and looked threw the Peep hole, two men in black suits stood waiting for him to answer. A little nervous, Lukas opened the door and step out on the landing, "Good afternoon gentlemen, may I ask what this is about?" One man held up his ID and said, "Were with the Foreign Affairs Ministry sir, are you Lukas Hainsworth by any chance?" Lukas was confused, he had no idea why Foreign Affairs would be interested in him, unless... "Yes, Yes I am, but could you answer my question gentlemen?" The two men looked at each other for a second, "The Prime Minister is offering you a job opportunity sir." With that the two men entered Lukas's home where they discussed the job more thoroughly and gave him all necessary information. Lukas wife sat by his side the entire time they spoke. The two men finally finished with their presentation and asked one more question, "So Mr. Hainsworth, will you accept the position as Ambassador?" Lukas looked at his wife, "I don't know, what do you think honey?"
"It’s a big responsibility, but we haven't been living in this city for very long, it might be a good experience for the family." Lukas turned towards the two men, "Speaking of the family, how will are children be cared for?"
"The Hydrosterian government has offered to put them in one of there private schools free of charge."
"That's nice of them." Abigail gently tugged at Lukas's arm, "You see? The boys will make friends in this country. I think we should go, it will be fun."
"Yeah for you and the boys maybe." Abigail and Lukas laughed, "Alright, will do it." The two men smiled, "Very good sir, we'll back to pick you all up in a few days. You can take any personnel items you like but please keep it to a minimum." The two men said their polite good byes as they left the house and droved off down the hill. Lukas and Abigail remained in the living room as there two kids walked in from back; they had a lot to tell them, and a lot of preparation to do.

OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT PROCLAMATION
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From: Prime Minister Jeff Carson, Republic of Ustia
To: Chancellor Winston Everd Of The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

Splendid! I will make the necessary preparations immediately for there arrival in your country. In regards to the diplomatic vehicles I completely understand, such an amazing architecture would indeed need such restrictions. Good news is that most, if not all vehicles in Ustia run on an Electric/Ethanol mix engine or pure Electric or pure Ethanol, so this wont be an issue at all. I do appreciate the offer of the electric vehicle but I believe it would be better if we bring our own, we don't want to burden you with the cost. Now on your question with children, Lukas Hainsworth has two sons. He wished to send along his thanks for your offer of putting his two boys in one of your private schools and has graciously accepted your offer. I would also like to give my thanks to you on that matter. Your architecture really does sound amazing; maybe one day I can feast my eyes on them myself?

Sincerely,
Prime Minister Jeff Carson

Government Communique From The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

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To: Prime Minister Jeff Carson, Republic of Ustia
From: Chancellor Winston Everd Of The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

I am greatly pleased that the diplomatic exchange has proceeded so smoothly and that you have accepted our minor terms with little complaint; your vehicle's will be subject to a brief examination before the yare cleared for proper use but we are confident that they will be up to scratch. With regard to family matters my administration is busy composing a report on the best schools for the two young boys to attend, we shall leave the decision of which to their parents. With regard to transport, unless your nations airline companies are either equipped with high performance airships to navigate through the blizzards that harrass Northern Hydrosteria or you have boatplanes which are the other best way to travel Hydrostera's airways; then we are once again prepared to dispatch one of our own aircraft to transport your minister if he, and your government, if willing; mostly this is due to restrictions on foreign aircraft with regard to their operational capabilities, we urge you to take up our offer.

And my dear Prime Minister, if one day you care to visit Hydrosteria for yourself we will be greatly honoured to receive you here and show you the architectural marvels we have accomplished.

OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT PROCLAMATION
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From: Prime Minister Jeff Carson, Republic of Ustia
To: Chancellor Winston Everd Of The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

Sounds like Mr. Hainsworth and his family are going to have an interesting ride to Hydrosteria. I believe the use of your aircraft is the best course of action in regards to safety for the diplomatic team, your pilots will obviously have more experience in flying in such weather and theirs also not too many aircraft left in Ustia that are similar to what you described. I greatly appreciate this service you are providing us and let the pilot and his crew know my appreciation as well. Your aircraft will be free to land at Valais Air Force Base in Nord Province. There's an old airship hanger and landing area that was used during the 40's and 50's that should accommodate one of your high performance airships nicely. Mr. Hainsworth and his team will be waiting there, along with their various items and equipment. I wish the crew of your aircraft a safe voyage to my country and back.

(OOC: Fancy a meet and greet tour of Hydrosteria? Quite a site, rather Bioshock steampunk, radiators lining the streets )


OOC: I didn't catch this at first, and yes I would, that was what I was going for with RPing this out ;)

Government Communique From The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

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To: Prime Minister Jeff Carson, Republic of Ustia
From: Chancellor Winston Everd Of The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

Prime Minister I will be sure to convey your thanks to the crew selected for this undertaking and hope that Mr Hainsworth and his family will have a pleasent stay withen our nation.

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From above the Valais Air Force Base in Nord Province the Hydrosterian Diplomatic Airship descended like a whale lofted into the sky. Two hundred and fifty four meters in length, forty three meters in diameter and decorated in the black and white geometric art deco patterns that made up the staple of Hydrosteria's design ideals and with the nations emblem painted onto both sides of it it was a magnificent example of Hydrosteria's divergent industrial activity; the four diesel engines protuding from it's side hummed as it settled down upon the old landing field. As it touhed down cascades of snow and slush from it's top and sides collapsed all around it; icecles adorning it's exterior rattled like glass.

Soon after it had settled a staircase unfurled from the side as a doorway swung open; at the rear a ramp lowered to allow luggage and the requested vehicles to be loaded. Whilst various crew members dressed smartly in black trousers and blue trenchcoats went about the buissness of checking the craft and loading it a member of the Hydrosterian govenment approached Mr Hainsworth and his team. He wore highly polished boots and black pinstripe trousers but again he also wore a blue trenchcoat for the weather.

"Why hello there! Allow me to introduce myself," he said cheerfully beaming at the great assembly of people, although technically he did not have an accent he sounded overly posh as he followed the particular English method of speaking known as BBC English, or Queens English. "I am Harold Dervisham, Minister of the Council of the Hydrosterian Metropolitan-Regional government and subsequently the Minister of the constituency of the Savvington Tower; but that is all nonsensical to your interests i am sure." He beamed once more and clapped his hands together, "So then, I hope you are all not afraid of a bit of turbulence, Mr Hainsworth where abouts are you in this crowd?"

Ministre de Défense
Bureau des Affaires Diplomatiques
Pour: Le Conseil Métropolitaine-Régional de Hydrosteria
Par: I Eldalante

Chèr Monsieur Winston Everd

The Eldalantean government wishes to extend our heartfelt congratulations to your people for overthrowing the oppressive and anti-human bonds of Socialism and their adoption of ideals that seem to closely mirror our own as set forth in the Book of Rand. Given the recent developments, we are willing to tentatively open trade and diplomatic relations with your nation.

We are hopeful that these normalizations can become permanent to the increased wealth and prosperity of our two nations. We would like to send a small delegation (Ambassadeur de Grade Bas, 3 Gaurds and a translator) to your nation to observe as your government solidifies itself, so that we may be assured that the rule of law and civil order have been well established before we risk more expensive and valuable resources.

Avec l'Amité Sincère
Amras Narmolanya
Sous-Ministre de Défense et Chef des Affaires Diplomatiques

Government Communique From The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

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To: Amras Narmolanya, Sous-Ministre de Défense et Chef des Affaires Diplomatiques
From: Chancellor Winston Everd Of The M.R.C Of Hydrosteria

We are pleased to here from a fellow govenment that espouses the values of Objectivism and self determination and would be greatly pleased to receive ambassadors of your nation in the hopes that two like minded nations such as ourselves can pursue economic pursuits.

However, we feel the need to correct you on one matter. Our recent "Revolution" although resulting in a conflict between the upper tiers of government and the majority will of the people flamed by the various factions which arose through self interest and bribery were aimed at a corrupt administration, before the corruption of our governing offices our nation was as it is now; that is a shining beacon of industrious entreupeneering activity along the lines of Objectivist thinking assessed by common sense and rationality. As such, the Revolution was more an unfortunate episode of purging brought about by the people which escalated into a drawn out conflict over the past seven months. Hoping that this clears a number of matters on the state of our nation for you.

(OOC: I presume I got the address to part right, although I probably buggered it up :L)

The trip up to the base was full with meets and greets from Lukas's various staff members. The only group he hadn't met was the six Marines tasked with security for there little embassy. During all of this, his two kids marveled at everything including the two spacious SUV's (http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g291/eggcimpprr456/UMI-MSPS/2009_cadillac_escalade_esv_suv_fron.jpg) that would act as Lukas's personnel vehicles and their transportation to the base for today. As the little convoy pulled into the entrance of Valais Air Force Base, a Flight of TF-70 "SHUKUSEI" Advanced Air Superiority Fighter's (http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g291/eggcimpprr456/doomanifighterdarker1.png) took off into the sky for a routine patrol/training mission. Markus and Benjamin watched as the fighters formed up into a diamond formation, the fighters then banked to the right and headed off towards the Mountain Range. "Whoa! Did you fly those daddy?" asked Benjamin. Lukas chuckled a little, "I wish son, but no, I was on those mountains way over there looking for bad guys."
"Oooh! Cool!"
"Yes, it was pretty cool up their son. I enjoyed it a lot." The convoy moved away from the main airstrip and over to the old airship hangers at the end of the base. A M2061 Reaver (http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g291/eggcimpprr456/M2061a1.png) sat next to the landing zone; it was filled with the embassies equipment and other items. Lukas remembered the truck from when they were loading up there things inside it. He thought it was odd that Air Force personnel were transporting his family’s things, he guest it was a matter of what was on hand at the time. Next to the truck stood the Marines he hadn't meet yet. They stood in a horizontal line with there commanding officer in front. The Marines Dress Blues (http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g291/eggcimpprr456/UMI-MSPS/PlateIV_Enlisted_Dress_Uniform.jpg) were clean as whistle, the brass on their shoulders and front shined in the morning sunlight. Next to their legs sat there Olive drab colored bags in perfect alignment with the Marines formation. Inside these bags the Marines contained there Utility, Service, and Evening Dress Uniforms along with their weapons and gear. Around all of this, various Airmen stood waiting with director sticks to guide the airship down while others stood ready to load the luggage on the aircraft. Lukas's two SUV's came to a slow stop in front of the landing zone, immediately his two sons opened the door and busted out onto the soft grass. Abigail quickly followed and grabbed them by there coats, "Don't you two go running off ok? Will be leaving soon." Both of them replied, "K'a!" before Abigail released them. As the Staff disembarked from the SUV's, Lukas walked over to the squad of Marines. He noticed the commanding officer was a woman, Staff Sergeant most likely. The women made an About-Face towards Lukas and yelled, "Marines! Atten-hut!" Immediately, the Marines straightened up. "Staff Sergeant Alexia Dillingham and men, reporting as ordered sir!" Lukas felt a little out of place at that moment, he had to remember that he was an Ambassador now. "Umm, very good Staff Sergeant, at ease." The marines crossed their arms and relaxed their legs. "So, since will be working with each other for awhile, I might as well get to know you all." Lukas held out his hand to the Staff Sergeant, she accepted the hand and shook it firmly, almost too firmly. "Its nice to meet you Staff Sergeant, I'm Lukas Hainsworth." At that moment, Abigail found her way over to Lukas's side. "I apologizes for my absence, are children love to explore." Lukas turned to his wife, "This is my wife Abigail, Abigail? This is Staff Sergeant Alexia Dillingham, she’s the commander of these men." Abigail smiled and held out her hand, "Its nice to meet you Staff Sergeant." Alexia again accepted the hand, "Its nice to meet you too maim, it’s nice to meet you both." Lukas and Abigail then moved on to introduce themselves to the rest of the marines, when Benjamin and Markus ran over, the two introduced them as well. After a few minutes of waiting, an Airman walked over to announce that the ship was closing in. Off in the distance, Lukas could see the massive airship as it came closer and closer. Eventually, the Airship was directly above them; Airmen directed the aircraft as it lowered itself down onto the soft grass below. Everyone (especially Lukas's two boys) watched as the airships staircase unfurled from the side and the rear ramp lowered down. Immediately, The Airmen and the Hydrosterian crewmembers started working together to load the two vehicles and other items from the M2061 Reaver. A few seconds later, Lukas noticed a man approaching his family and team. His family and him listened as Mr. Dervisham introduced himself and asked where he was. "I'm right here Mr. Dervisham, and it’s a pleasure to meet you." Lukas motioned him to come towards him, "Come, I want you to meet some people." Lukas quickly introduced everyone, "This is my wife Abigail." Lukas's wife held out her hand, "Its nice to meet you Mr. Dervisham," She smiled. Lukas continued, "And these are our two boys, Markus and Benjamin." Both of them waved there little hands and said "Hi!" Lukas then turned his attention towards Alexia, "I would also like you to meet Staff Sergeant Alexia Dillingham and her men." Alexia and the rest of the Marines Saluted Mr. Dervisham. As they lowered there hands, the Staff Sergeant held out hers, "Its a pleasure to meet you sir."

Dervisham beamed and exchanged brief nods with the various members of the crowd, responding as nessacery as he was introduced to members of the crowd.

"A pleasure to meet you also my dear." he replied to Abigail, clasping her hand enthusiastically and shaking it.
"And a good hello to you as well boys," he said waving back to Lukas's sons smiling.

When it came to Staff Sergeant Alexia and her marines he held up his hands good naturedly, "Aha now theres no need for that troops, allegiance to your own country men and all that whilst I appreciate the respect." Still beaming he took Alexia's hand and shook it firmly, "Please call me Dervisham or Harold, an absoloute pleasure to meet you my dear, mind if I call you dear? Sorry i'm rambling." Releasing her hand he turned back to Lucas, well Mr. Hainsworth, are we all set to board and get comfortable for the journey ahead; anything you need to notify me of or request?"

"Oh yes, I believe were quite ready to..." a Senior Airman cut into the conversion, "Sorry sir." The Senior saluted Lukas, "Just wanted to inform you that everything is on board sir." Lukas gave a crisp salute in return, "Very well Senior Airman."
"Thank you sir." The Senior nodded towards Dervisham and said, "Sir" before walking off. Lukas then turned his attention back to Mr. Dervisham, "Like I was saying, I believe we are ready to go and no I have nothing to request or anything that I believe needs to be notified." Lukas held out his arm towards the airship, "Lead the way Mr. Dervisham."

"Very good, very good." He said happily, "Everyone follow me then."

Turning round on the spot and setting off with a brisk stride he led the way across the airfield to the airships staircase, a supervisor stood next to the staircase awaiting their arrival.

"All ready Minister?"
"Yes quite so Stevenson quite so, inform the Navigator would you?"
"Shall do sir, shall do."

The supervisor pulled out a radio from his pocket and strode off towards the cabin located beneath the main body of the airship giving various instructions as the workmen finished securing the vessel and raising the rear ramp. Turning around to face the Ustian personnel with his arms raised he simply said, "Shall we go up then?" Turning round once more he ascended the steps to the airships interior; a pair of flight attendants greeted each arrival in turn at the doorways entrance, gesturing them into the belly of the beast.

The Habitable deck was a series of rooms that stretched from one end of the airship to the other, covering almost two hundred and fifty meters it was an expansive stretch of two storey high deeply polished oak flooring with engraved wood pannelling adorning it's walls. The ceiling was an intricate geometric aluminium example of art deco at it's height; the furnishings were neo-Victorian, mostly furnished out of brass, and old style radiators lined the walls at regular intervals which were really electric powered. The rooms included five exquisite bedrooms for people to rest in, a dining room complete with kitchen and a drinks bar, a vast hall that could have been a ball room, and a large lounge area filled with sofas and various forms of entertainment including a jukebox, snooker and ping pong tables and a large bookcase filled with novels and books of all types. In the hallway there were two staircases stationed by guards which led down to the cabin and up the maintenance area.

"Well then people," Dervisham said happily once the hatch had been fastened, "Get yourselves settled, feel free to look around, drinks and food on the house; non-alcoholic for the children though." He said beaming at the two children, "So, what do you think Mr Hainsworth?"

The entire group was simply blown away by the immense size and elegance of the ships interior, even the Marines couldn't help but take in the amazing sight before them. "I don't know what to think Mr. Dervisham, I mean I've been on airships before, but nothing like this." Markus and Benjamin both started tugging at Abigail's dress, she looked down at her two children, "Yes boys?"
"Mommy? Can we go play ping pong?" She smiled, "As long as you don't make a mess dears." The two children smiled as they raced off towards the table. Meanwhile The Staff and the Marines started to settle down in the various rooms throughout the Habitable deck. Alexia and the other Marines stowed away their Olive Drab bags and switched out there Blue Coats with Khakis. The Staff members put up their briefcases and bags along with their coats and caps.

Dervisham was most pleased by the Ustian personnel's reactions, with a general all encompassing wave he simply said, "Capitalism and Objectist values tempered by morality and sheer common sense my good man, I belive that Hydrosteria's goods are amongst the cheapest in the world as is the standard of living we have." He led the Hainsworth's to a collection of sofas and armchairs located next to the wide windows that were dotted across the sides of the rooms, settling himself down on one of the chairs a waiter who had begun circling the room inquiring as to if anyone wished to have any beverages or edibles approached them.

"Would anyone like any beverages or edibles?" he inquired of them.
"Ahhh, a pot of tea and a vodka and tonic for myself my good man; what would you like Abigail and Lucas, if I may call you that of course."

Meanwhile the rumbling of the airships engines could be heard as they kicked into action, very slowly the ground could be seen to drop beneath them as the airship ascended into the clouds setting course for Hydrosteria.

Abigail and Lukas took a seat on the sofa facing directly towards Dervisham. "We don't mind as long as it’s alright to call you Harold of course." As the waiter asked what they'd like, both Lukas and Abigail said, "Just Ice water please." As the waiter walked off to get what was requested, Lukas decided to change the subject, "So, since this will probably be a long flight, why not get to know each other a little better? Tell me a little about yourself Mr. Dervisham." Around the room, Staff and Marines enjoyed the various commodities provided to them. Alexia and a Corporal named Shawn Berkeley sat at the bar, sipping on there drinks. Shawn turned his head towards Alexia as he drank his Tea, "So Staff Sergeant, did you ever think you'd see something like this in the Marines?" She shrugged her shoulders, "No, but I always did hope something like this would happen."
"Too right, too right." Behind the two Marines, a couple of PFC's (Private First Class) walked over to the snooker table. "Snooker? What’s that?" The other PFC quickly responded, "Its similar to pool, my Dad and I would play this all the time in the basement." "God! You even have a pool table down there!" The PFC with knowledge on Snooker smiled, "Yep, that basement is pretty cool. Come on, I'll show you how to play." Another PFC, curious of the jukebox, walked over to it and examined the thing. "Man, a Jukebox! I haven't seen one of these in years! Hey Sarge! Come an look at this." Sergeant Arthur Ethelstan was checking out the large bookcase when the PFC called, "Hold on private, I'll be right there." Arthur made his way over, he immediately noticed the Jukebox, "How about that..."
"I know sir! I love these things. Lets see if we can get a good song going." The Sergeant held up his hand, "Hold your horses Private, remember we have kids here." The PFC starred at Markus and Benjamin, they were messing around with the net on the ping-pong table, "Sorry sir, I'll choose an appropriate song."
"You better private, if you know what’s good for you."
"Yes sir." The PFC looked at the list, as he searched threw the selection of various songs, one seemed to surprise him. "No, it can't be..." Arthur looked over his shoulder, "Well I'll be damned, play it private."
"Yes sir." The PFC pressed a button and immediately the song (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjiG3iW01BQ&feature=related) began. Around the room, Marines and staff recognized the song and looked towards the Jukebox. As the song continued to play, many of them smiled; and why not? The Ustian National Anthem was a beautiful song.

OOC: Piece of shit Ripway! here's the youtube version. *in the same spot*

"Of course you can call me Harold, feel free. But myself? Well, where should I start? I was born in Northern Hydrosteria in the city of Kelvinnic, attended school of course then went onto the university of Schlander where I took a course entitled... ah what was it now... Philisophical Insights And Motivation Behind Industrial Activity And It's Effects On Society... at least I think that's what it was." He paused and thanked the waiter as he placed a pot of tea, a pitcher of ice cold water, a pot of sugar, a pitcher of milk, a plate of lemon slices and a container filled with ice cubes, the nessacery cups and glasses required onto the table; after filling each of their glasses with the requested drink and handing the drinks to the requesters he departed. Harold took a sip of his vodka and tonic before placing it down and picking up a saucer with a cup of tea balanced on it.

"Where was I? Ah yes, skipping past my various exploits as a university student," he gave them a grin, "I don't think theres much to tell to be honest, my father is the head of a family operated publishing buissness which I am set to inherit; my foray into the world of politics was of course funded by father who wanted one of our family members into the workings of governance for prestige, the sly old dog. Apart from that there is not much to say, there was the buissness with the Revolution recently where I led our cities defense of freedom against the corrupt echelons of governance but aside from that nothing, in anycase, what of yoursel- I say what's that?" Turning around to look at the jukebox as the Ustian National Anthem began playing he paused for a few moments taking in the music, "What an uplifting tune, unusual choice for a soldier." He spotted the contented smiles appearing on peoples faces, "I say does this have some special significance?"

(ooc: your link doesn't work, I looked it up though and am fairly sure i got the right one)

Lukas smiled and even laughed a little when the song started. Still facing the Jukebox, he answered Dervisham's question, "Oh yes, there's a lot of history behind that song my friend." Lukas took a sip from his water and turned to face Dervisham, "That song goes back several hundred years, during the time of the four kingdoms." He knew Dervisham would probably not know what he was talking about, so he decided to give a little history listen, "You see, a long time ago, Ustia was divided up into four Kingdoms ruled by various Queens and Kings. Over several hundreds of years they had been in constant warfare between each other, sending thousands and even possibly millions to their deaths. However, this cycle of death and destruction with minor amounts of peace ended in the late 18th century with the rise of King O'Byrne III of the Western Kingdom. He'd grown up in the bloody mess of kings past and his fathers failed attempt for peace in the land. As the new King, he vowed nothing more than to have peace, remove the monarchy forever, and establish some form of democracy to the land. Now as you might imagine, he was beloved by the people, but amazingly he was accepted by the elite considering they believed it to be the only way to stop the madness." Lukas took another sip, "Now, across the border in the Nord Kingdom, the same thing was happening with Queen Cornelia I. Citizens in both Kingdoms hailed there leaders as they did exactly as they said they would. This is the time that Parliament was born, along with other lower representative bodies that amazingly were filled with general elections open to all citizens." Lukas cleared his throat, "Now in honor of this progress, The Journey Home (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SrQrkZtg-mo), which is the song on the Jukebox, was created in the Western Kingdom." Lukas looked back at the Jukebox, "Citizens in the two other Kingdoms saw all this take place, and they wanted it too. So, massive demonstrations took place with people singing The Journey Home together. The Song seemed to unite everyone behind the cause of peace and freedom." Lukas looked back to Dervisham, "Now you'd think that the Kings of these kingdoms would try and destroy these people, but that's not how it happened. No one truly knows why but something about that song lead to these rulers stepping down peacefully." Lukas smiled, "Democracy took hold after that, O'Byrne and Cornelia gracelessly stepped down from power as elected officials took over and lasting peace began between the four Kingdoms. As years passed the groups became closer and closer until finally on April 5, 1789 the Four Kingdoms united into the country you know today as Ustia."He paused for a moment, "As a symbolic gesture, The Journey Home became The National Anthem of Ustia and is still to this day." Lukas finished his water, "So, how did you like that bit of Ustian history?"

OOC: Just in case you missed it.

(OOC: Place holder for tonight)

Dervisham smiled, "Well I must say that you weren't joking when you said the song had a history behind it. Indeed, it makes a pleasent change from the usual tales or revolution ary bloodshed and the toppoling of a corrupt government." Dervisham sipped his tea thoughtfully, "Makes you wonder quite how all the nations of the world still exist when you hear their tales of hardship and tyrannical rulers; i'm surprised that their modern day citizens are not suffering from some mental based social deficiencies." The corners of his mouth twitched in amusement, "In anycase, it is certainly intriguing to listen to any nations history, especially when it is, shall we say, a pleasent tale; perhaps I can retern the favour." Placing down his tea and fidgeting in his seat to get comfortable he embarked on his own little history lesson.

"Hydrosteria lacks the fabled tales of kings, queens and the heroic battles between ruling dynasties that nations such as yourself can happily hold on to as our originations are nothing more than that of a colony; an offshoot of British colonialism if you will. In the late eighteenth century a colonisation vessel heading for British Columbia lost it's way and arrived on the southern island of what we would later come to call Hydrosteria, thinking it was Canada they planted the flag in the name of her majesty the queen and set up their homes; during a return trip the vesel realised they were in fact on the edge of the artic shelf above Iceland; quite a mistake that."

"In anycase, the population grw slowly for a few decades untill the Industrial Revolution kicked into action around seventeen seventy, Hydrosteria had a vast abundance of coal and suddenly that ice covered island became much more appealing and our population soared through immigration. Plodding onwards through history as our nation hoarded capital as we exported coal we also became a powerful manufacturing entity; but from eighteen fifty we were cut off from our foreign governers with the onset of a mini ice age locking the surrounding waters with ice; from that bout of isolation the Metropolitan-Regional Council was formed."

Dervisham picked up his brandy and took a sip before setting it down again, "We formally declared independance from Britain in nineteen thirteen, fearing that tensions between European powers would lead to a struggle over the industrial facilities of our nation during the course of any possible wars; we made the right decision, we sat throughout World War One and Two n relative isolation and peace; forming a unique Objectivist government seperated from the termoil that Karl Marx had set up in Europe. We liasoned briefly with a few nations during the Cold War and benefitted from the Eastern Blocks brain drain as refugees fled from their nation. All in all, we have a relativly peaceful and productive history."