NationStates Jolt Archive

Open Letter to all Involved.
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka.
http://www.digikitten.com/playhousev2/files/Mishgan/GDT_Flag_Full.jpg

Today, we, of the Senate of the Grand Duchy of Tarasovka, both Councilors and High Councilors, acting under the authority given to us by our people and in the name of our people, have the immense honor and privilege to announce that our beloved and most honored Ruler, Grand Duke Mikhail Shakhovskoy I, having judged that his son was apt and ready to lead our glorious people towards greater heights than those already achieved, has decided to resign from the throne of the Grand Duchy in the favor of Crown Archduke Mikhail Shakhovskoy II.

We, of the Senate of the Grand Duchy, both Councilors and High Councilors, judging the Crown Archduke capable of leading the Grand Duchy and its people, have accepted the resignation of the Grand Duke, who will officially put down the burden of his duties during a ceremony in two days.

The coronation of the new Grand Duke will happen in a week from now at the Most Sacred and Holy Citadel of Zynthris.

Thus, we, of the Senate of the Grand Duchy of Tarasovka, both Councilors and High Councilors, and also the Grand Ducal family and the Dynasty themselves, have the honor to most cordially invite the following leaders to the coronation ceremony itself at the Most Sacred and Holy Citadel of Zynthris:

Leaders of Sisgardian nations:
* Lord Simon Delendre-S'Jet, Chairman of the Daiamid Council, Speaker of Kiith S'Jet'Sa, First Advisor of Council, CEO of the Vortex Corporation,

* Aramaki, CEO Kusanagi technologies of the Poisoned Industry Wastelands of Der Angst[OOC: http://snk-universe.com/Board/html/emoticons/wacko.gif ]

* William I Elendil Xylon of New Avalon, Emperor and King of the Empire of Diablo,

*Spike Spiegal LXXIII, High Edict of the United Socialist States of North-West Antarctica,

* Pilias Simber, Head Speaker of the Wise Counsel of the Hegemony of Pilon,

* Speaker Albrecht Earthson, Learned Councilor for External Relations, Speaker of the High Council, the Third Wittan of Cairn Tarra,

* The Brain, Chairman of the Ruling Council of the Dominion of the Lab Mouse,

* Prometheus, Giver-of-Will of the Dominion of Cybrid,

* Representatives for the Federation of Technocratic Republics:
[list:1d31879a6f]
-Istab von Frieditch, Founder and Eternal First Speaker of the Technocratic Council.

-Vor Smanthel, current Grand Consul of the Federation,

-Atheros Theogad, current High Magistrate of the House of Magistrates,

-Katrinna of Fistennock, current Moderator of the Circle of Shires,

-Atheros Atherior, current and vitalicium Pontifix Magnus of the Technocratic Council ,


* All other Sisgardian nations are free to send their representatives to the Ceremony.[OOC: Which means, among others, Celeborne and all those SFN guys who are being absent ;) ]
[/list:u:1d31879a6f]

Also most cordially invited to the Coronation Ceremony are the following Leaders:
* Crown Prince Rhys Ap'Gwidion of the Requiem of Whispering Voices,

* His Imperial Highness, Emperor Alexander Nemerov of the Star Empire of Steel Butterfly in the Orion Sector,

* Prime Minister Lousewies van der Laan of the Democratic Republic of Knootoss.

* Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Gehenna of Tartarus,

* Nathicana D'Aquisto dal Lupo, Dread Lady of the Dominion,

* Councilor Simone Peron, Generalismo of the Armies of the Dominion of Talkos,

*Lady Sirithil Nalosaurawen Finlaurë Aineldalië Minyavendë nos Fëanor, Elentári of the Noldorin Empire of Menelmacar, Empress of All Elves, Eärendil, Vinyarda and Ceres, Regent of Lavenrunz, Guardian of America and the Congo, and Lady-Protector of Elvenkind,

* The August Empress Rialla 'The Merciful' ux-Rihad II, Spiritual Leader of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn, Queen of Ma-Nenya, High Queen of Ma-tek, High Queen of Ax-turath, High Queen of Vilya Elenosto, Lady of Rhea, Lady of Shelbattanu, Lady Mayor of Tek, Lady of Turath, Supreme Commander of the Imperial Defence Forces of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn, and Prime Representative to the South Atlantic Treaty Organization for EOTED,

* The Imperial President D'ron Christopher Smith, High Marshal of The Peoples' Military, Lord Protector of Dor Lomin, Governor-General of the Commonwealths of Peitha and Sentient Peoples, High Governor of the Dominions of Vanderhill and The Halo, and Servant of the People.



We, of the Senate of the Grand Duchy, both Councilors and High Councilors, as well as the Grand Ducal family and the Dynasty itself, most cordially invite the leaders of all other nations that the Grand Duchy has contacts with to the celebration of the inauguration of the new Grand Duke which will be held right after the coronation ceremony.

On this, We, of the Senate of the Grand Duchy, both Councilors and High Councilors, thank you for your most gracious attention and request that the most Honorable Invitees, both those in the list and those not, specify whether they will be attending the ceremonies and celebrations or not.

Signed,

Senator, High Councilor, Leib-Duke Namellar Sylvaraith,
Senator, High Councilor and Leib-Marshal of the TNDF, Leib-Duke Valery Berilov,
Senator, High Councilor, Duke Taen Nateth,
Senator, High Councilor, Leib-Count Alexei Nemirov,
Senator, High Councilor, Leib-Count Allanu Kenaith,
Senator, High Councilor, Leib-Count Mirodar Bogoslavov,
Senator, High Councilor, Leib-Count Kiril Nehaiev,
Senator, High Councilor, Leib-Countess Anastasya Keranova,

Senator, Councilor, Leib-Duchess Irina Zinovieva,
Senator, Councilor, Leib-Duke Vladimir Dobroliubov,
Senator, Councilor, Duke Dateril Kanath,
[OOC: Abreviated by around ~400 names ;) ]
Senator, Councilor, Leonid Shapkin,
Senator, Councilor, Mequiera Nethut.


OOC: In other words, all nations who I have friendly contacts with are invited. The ones in the list will be attending the Coronation ceremony at the Sacred Citadel of Zynthris, proper, and the following celebrations.

The ones not in the list are invited only to the following celebrations.

The celebrations will be held at that new resort thing of mine, so SFN nations which have not taken part in the Resort project are invited to do so.

IRL, I am moving from one flat to an other, so might experience some 'come-and-go'es in my RP, since I need to transfer my DSL abonement from one telephone line to an other, and that sort of thing... Please post whether you will be coming or not. The Main RP will begin in a couple days, when I hope to be online normally :wink:

Thank you for your attention and pardon for spelling mistakes in the titles :cry:

"Allright, I think that finishes it up for the day. Keep monitoring the situation evolving in EOTED, DNL and all the other international incidents in which we are involved. I'm leaving for the Grand Duchy tomorrow, so I trust you will be able to cope with all these issues."

Councelor Delendre sat behind his desk, in a closed meeting with his second in command, Councelor Robert Stone-Soban. The latter nodded and made his reply.

"We'll handle ourselves. Despite the DNL uproar, their new 'leaders' do not seem to have the intention to destabilize the region. And as time progresses, the EOTED situation seems to get less and less relevant for the Corporation."

"Good. Keep monitoring DNL though, we can never be too sure. Who did you put in charge of the operations involving OMMA?"

"Kiira Manaan, sir. She's a capable military commander and one of the best admirals of our time. She'll handle herself."

Delendre smiled slightly. "Well, EOTED under control, DNL not causing intraregional war, and OMMA upgrades running smooth. It's almost as if things are becoming stable again."

"I see what you mean....it's probably because Knootoss isn't trying to cause WW7 this month. Well, your bags are packed and the aerodyne is waiting for you at the airport. Have fun in GDT, sir."

"I will. It will be good to see my son again. One more thing though, send a message to the Battlemages. Ask Sar Tzu to send his spies to Valinon, Thelas and the other nations on the black list. We don't need those nations stirring things up in the current situation."

"Will do, sir."

OOC: Does a small grumble at not being invited. Theallas will be attending the celebrations though...

OOC: Does a small grumble at not being invited. Theallas will be attending the celebrations though...

OOC: Just that last time you came to a coronation thread, it all ended up with Aelosian troops trying to take over DNL and a sword combat with Siri with the invitees only a few meters away! :shock:
You understand that the High Council was... cautious :shock:

OOC: Does a small grumble at not being invited. Theallas will be attending the celebrations though...

OOC: Just that last time you came to a coronation thread, it all ended up with Aelosian troops trying to take over DNL and a sword combat with Siri with the invitees only a few meters away! :shock:
You understand that the High Council was... cautious :shock:

OOC: Don't worry, nothing will happen, Sirithil won't bother Theallas, after all, Theallas is technicaly a subject of Sirithil, and Menelmacar has a bad habbit of not showing up.

IC:

Letter to the High Concil,

"I have heard that a new leader has ascended to the throne, although Thelas and Taraskova have had friendly relations in the past, I saw thatmy leaders name was not on the invity list. I hope that this was just a beuracratic oversight, and I wish for your clarification on the matter. I assure you, there are no enemies on the invity list, we are all technical subjects of the Menelmacari Empire, and Theallas owes loyalty to Sirithil, nothing will happen."

~Commander Netari

I look forward to attending with my consort the High King and First Minister Semir-randil I, and our close friend and secondary mouthpiece, Ambassador Nejure, if that is acceptable.

May I enquire as to what security arrangements will be on hand? The head of mine personal guard is quite anxious to bring a contingent of IPG officers with one; but I hesitate to do such a thing, as it does seem rather disrespectful.

~ Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II

OOC: :x not invited...blah...

Two blue hooded men came into the room, holding a large golden plate, on which a wide and square crystal rested. From time to time, sudden flashes of blue light ran through the cristal's surface, generating a slight vibrating sound, like a bell made of glass.

Three other men, equaly hooded so no part of their bodies could be seen, stood in the center of the room, around what seemed to be a hoovering circular pad, with one wide disk of translucent crystal on it's center. The perimeter of the pad, that ahd about one meter in diameter, was covered in intrincate mechanical structures and small golden tubes. One opening was found at the back of the pad.

The men carrying the golden plate stoped a few steps before the floating artifact, And one of the waiting men walked and carefully took the crystal with both hands.

"By the Ancient Calculations, may the Speaker rise once more" He said, and slowly inserted the crystal into the opening.

The artifact inmediately came to life. The glassy disk on it's center began glowing with a blue shine.

The man who had inserted the crystal into the artifact rose his head towards the other two that had been waiting behind him "Now, take the First Speaker towards his transport. You have been chosen by him to act as his protectors and companions. You will not leave his side at any moment. Protect and serve him with your life"

The two men noded, and gently placed their hands on the disk of the artifacts. A blue glow went from the disk towards their hands, which then turned barely blue, after the glow had dissipated.

They began walking, one at each side, while the artifact hoovered among them, and exit the room through an automatic door.
Outside, they meet with a white robe dressed old man, Pntifix Magnus Atheros Theogad.

"Ah, I see the Speaker is ready. Shall we depart now?"

----------------------------------------------------------------------------


"Is my transport ready?" Asked the Supreme Consul, a short, bald man, with an extensive white mustache, to the tall man awaiting in the door of his office.

"Yes, Supreme Consul. The Federal Guard has also been deployed, and they are awaiting to be taken towards the vessel"

Consul Smanthel finished adjusting his long ceremonial robe, of red and white colors, and turned from the mirror to his assistant "Has the Speaker been loaded already?"

"Not yet. The Technocrats are finishing the departure ceremony before taking him onboard"

Smanthel noded "Very well. We should go now. We do not want to make the new Duke wait. Tell Hintherus to ready my craft towards Baywater Port"

The man leaned forward "Inmediately, Supreme Consul" And he departed to make the orders effective.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

"These Technocrats and their endless ceremonies! We will never get on the vessel if they don't move" Came Lady Katrinna of Fistennock complains. She was sitting inside the luxurious mag vessel that had taken her and her companion Atheros Theogad towards Baywater Port, where the Poseidon-class sea transport awaited for them.

"The Pontifix is old, Katrinna. His ceremonies take very long now. But I belive they are soon to finish" Came Theogad's calm and friendly voice, sitting next to Katrinna.

Katrinna rose an eyebrow "Too many life extensions are good for no one. That man has almost four hundred years, for Meknoss sake!" She said in a humourous tone "By the way, I do not see the Supreme Consul. I hope he has not found a last minute problem"

"Vice Consul Kalarnath is under control now. I am sure Smanthel is on his way here already" Theogad's smiling mouth showed it's white teeths among his bronce beard "We won't be late for the ceremony, Katrinna, so stop worring so much. Tarasovka is just a few hours from here"

OOC: :x not invited...blah...

OOC: Quoting my own post:


* Crown Prince Rhys Ap'Gwidion of the Requiem of Whispering Voices,

* His Imperial Highness, Emperor Alexander Nemerov of the Star Empire of Steel Butterfly in the Orion Sector,

* Prime Minister Lousewies van der Laan of the Democratic Republic of Knootoss.


See your name in the middle? :x

After hearing that Thelas born beings would attend the coronation, a small message was sent to the Grand Duchy:

~To the Grand Duchy of Tarasovka~

We would like to remember you of what happened last time Thelas was invited to this kind of thing. Could it be possible to limit the Thelas delegation to a maximum of three persons, all nuarmed?

May I enquire as to what security arrangements will be on hand? The head of mine personal guard is quite anxious to bring a contingent of IPG officers with one; but I hesitate to do such a thing, as it does seem rather disrespectful.


"The Grand Duchy is deploying all possible personel and means to ensure the safety of the event. The Grand Ducal Airspace will be closed in several areas. Air patrols were stepped up 300%. The TND NF available Naval Groups have taken position in the waters outside of the Grand Duchy to monitor and intercept any possible incoming threat.
The TSF Battlegroups in orbit ensure that nothing breaches Sisgardian and Grand Ducal space.
Add to that the SFN security of which the Grand Duchy is member of.

As of the inner security - the Most Sacred and Holy Order of the Seven Deities has put its personal private 'security detachment'[OOC: They have a personal military of around 50.000 men, all even better armed than a normal TNDF trooper :? ] on high state of alert in and around the Sacred Citadel of Zynthris.
TISD officers and special teams are deployed to the concerned areas to monitor and maintain order during the event. Traffic and movement of people in and out of the Grand Duchy will be strictly monitored and filtered.
TNSD Grey Hawk Special Intervention Groups and TDI Black Wolf Tactical Forces will reenforce the already tight security, not to mention the Tactical and Logistics officers of the said Departments already working in the field.
Due to questions of tradition, the Alexander Guard Honorary Regiment will only enter its security functions once the Heir becomes Grand Duke and Him and the Guards exchange ceremonial oaths of loyalty. For the time being, the entire Regiment is dislocated at the Vigvar Winter Palace complex.

To conclude, the security is more than tight. TDI, TISD and TNSD sniper and intervention teams are ready to deal with any possible troublemakers and insure the safety of the guests.
The Grand Duchy thus insits on the fact that no armed foreign personel will be allowed during the ceremonies.

On this, Your Most Honorable Imperial Highness, I thank you for your attention,"

~ TDI Leib-Colonel Yliushin.

OOC: In other words, there will be NO terrorist attacks or assasinations during the festivities. All troublemakers will be dealt with on spot and without discernement by the Special Forces and Guard personel :x

I actually wanted to post the security measures a bit later, but well... there is the resume :roll: ]

Letter to the High Concil,

"I have heard that a new leader has ascended to the throne, although Thelas and Taraskova have had friendly relations in the past, I saw thatmy leaders name was not on the invity list. I hope that this was just a beuracratic oversight, and I wish for your clarification on the matter. I assure you, there are no enemies on the invity list, we are all technical subjects of the Menelmacari Empire, and Theallas owes loyalty to Sirithil, nothing will happen."

~Commander Netari

Responce to Netari:

"Due to the recent actings of General Thealas, the High Council, for security reasons of both General Thealas and its own dignitaries, has decided not to invite General Thealas to the coronation to avoid any possible conflicts between General Thealas and other invitees.

More than that, recent actings of Thelas inside of Sisgardia only reenforce our will to upkeep our stance on this matter.

However, in a show of goodwill, the High Council is ready to invite the General to the coronation ceremony itself, as long as the delegation is limited to two diginatries, all unarmed. The Grand Duchy will provide the necessary security.

The no arms rule applies to all delegations present to the event, so do not feel yourself enduring a special treatment.

Thank you for your attention."

OOC: Oops :lol:

IC:

"I am pleased to be invited to such an event. Relations between Tarasovka and Steel Butterfly have been dilluted as of late, and I wish to reverse that trend. However, due to unfortunate situations with the Sol System, I will be attending with personal guards. I hope that is not a problem."

http://invisionfree.com:54/43/101/upload/p1.gif
Emperor Alexander Nemerov
Star Empire of Steel Butterfly,
In the Orion Sector which includes:
Steel Isle, Steel Moon,
CTaNbHaR Eabo4Ka, XIII,
Aeisis, Bivens, Esthar VIII
Orion Sector Alliance Premier,
Order of the Seraphim,
(Un-named Trade Consortium)

((Taggage and working on post.))

Blue lights flickered on and off rhythmically, enveloping the long hallway in it’s chilly light before plunging it in near darkness for but a second. The walls where lined with glass containers, all of them filled with various beings that were in various states of developments.

Artificially grown animals; Humans, Neko’s, Orc’s and Elves to name but a few. The strongest genetic samples they could find, combined with others to create new creatures that would be superior than normal born ones who were the result of random intercourse.
In this cold hallway where life was born in artificial wombs, there was always a scurry of activity as smaller, and far less intelligent, worker Cybrids scurried to and fro, diligently ensuring that all the machinery would be in peak condition so that the animals could mature safely.
But today, the worker machines where joined by a person who was half animal and half machine.
<Prometheus//zero-zero-two: Human\\animal\\NEXT> stood in front of one of the tanks that contained another Human, almost in identical in appearance to himself. The muscle tissue had not yet been fully developed, but then it had not yet been subjected to the six weeks of artificial muscle stimulation that the human Prometheus had undergone already.
Of course, he had undergone for more as well, inefficient human organs had been augmented or fully replaced by superior Cybrid devices.

He still hated his human body, his prison, no matter whether or not it had been so far upgraded that it only looked human was irrelevant. He was Prometheus, well a mental copy of <Giver-of-Will> downloaded into a Cybrid brain that replaced the biological human brain. One day he would be considered obsolete by <Giver-of-Will> and be deleted, released from his animal body… Until then he had no choice but to do his tasks.

Seeing his reflection in the glass container, he sneered. The reflection of the thirty year or so old appearing man with the small beard encircling his mouth, his raven black hair that reached to his shoulders and was kept from falling in front of his face by jade beads in his hair, sneered back at him, sharp canines fully bared.
“Only animal. Only animal.” Growling, he turned around and walked down the hallway, ignoring the sound of the working spider like Cybrids or the soft humming that came from the black biosuit that covered his entire body up to his neck.
It was time that Prometheus, one of them anyway, made the first public appearance. At least it would be within their regional borders.

=======

A small hour later, Prometheus-002 had boarded the enormous military hovercraft that had been made solely for Prometheus and his many, many guards. With a deafening roar, the hovercraft lifted up slightly to rest on it’s cushion of air and then set forth across the sea to cross the distance to the Grand Duchy of Tarasovka. The rising sun making the large hovercraft covered in it’s brown and grayish carapace shaped like armor standing out against the blue seas.

ooc: William will surely attend. If he just gets the letter, but there's this problem of sitting in a forest in the middle of Menelmacar.

ooc: William will surely attend. If he just gets the letter, but there's this problem of sitting in a forest in the middle of Menelmacar.

OOC: Oh Siri will gonna get badly poked today by the Taraskovyan representatives to the mIRC :x

"I am pleased to be invited to such an event. Relations between Tarasovka and Steel Butterfly have been dilluted as of late, and I wish to reverse that trend. However, due to unfortunate situations with the Sol System, I will be attending with personal guards. I hope that is not a problem."

"May we remind His Imperial Highness that no armed foreign personel will be allowed during the festivities. The guards of His Highness are more than welcome but they will have to surrender all their weaponry to the Taraskovyan security personel. The weapons will be returned once the delegation of His Highness will be leaving the Grand Duchy.

We beg pardon for such measures, but they are taken to avoid any security risks to the guests. We hope that His Highness understands us.

If His Highness wishes so and seriously fears for his security, he will be accompanied by everal TDI STO Operatives during his stay in the Grand Duchy. But we reiterate the fact that the security is overly tight and no hostile elements will pass through.

Thank you for your attention."

~ TDI Leib-Colonel Yliushin.

ooc: William will surely attend. If he just gets the letter, but there's this problem of sitting in a forest in the middle of Menelmacar.

OOC: Oh Siri will gonna get badly poked today by the Taraskovyan representatives to the mIRC :x
Ooc: Thanks. My finger was starting to hurt. Been poking her for days.

"I hope you feel well, my child?"
"Of course." Sakurai nodded to Aramaki. She had changed, was now 18 years old. And, unlike the last time she was abroad, the had grown some sort of self confidence.

They Entered the plane, and started, heading to The Grand Duchy. Aramaki... he was fairly old now, and it was obvious his time was about to come... Still, he would enjoy this trip, unlike most Angstians, he was not republican enough to hate the nobility systems abroad.

Still, things worried him, things like... well, the list of invites. Of curse, it had been impossible to avoid Pilias. The relationship between DA and Pilias was somewhat... tense, since a Angstian guard shot a Pilonese ambassador the Williams coronation... Well, this were the things one had to live with.

But then: Whispering Voices, the very bastards that fought in Knootoss. The Knootians themselves, a nation Aramaki had grown impatient with. And, worst, The Empire of the Eternal Dawn.

Aramaki couldn´t hide a smile. Considering the latest developments, it was more likely that it would end as the Empire of Eternal Dust... A bit arrogant, they were.

He leaned back, and thought about it. Well... seems like it`s going to be quite interesting...

there was a lot of shouting going on in Yagameed, from the grand pavilion one could see the one mile down to the sea, and the hundreds of small ships making there way to orbit, standing with the rest of the councillors was Albrecht Earthson, the self professed ‘speaker’ of the high council, Albrecht looked slightly aged, but still had the strength of appearance typical in the tarran race.

“Bring him back. Alive if possible, death is no punishment for that man... what other business have we to attend to”

“sir, the coronation in Tarasovka. is today, you are to attend.”

“Damn Diplomacy, prepare the phoenix and my livery, and have two attendants briefed and prepared within the hour, if we catch that scum bag Wisewood, hold him in his quarters ti i can return and set up the hearing”

“as you wish Cainteoir”

------------------------------------------------------------

20 minutes later, the Phoenix [http://www.coreline.net/edina/4.jpg] sped low across the water towards Tarasovka. on approach Albrecht made a communication to air traffic control.

“This is Cainteoir Albrecht Ennaismerriath, Comhairleoir Léannta do Caidreamh Seachtrach , Cainteach do tá Comhairle ard de Tríú Wittan de Cairn Tarra. I have come for the Coronation, and i come in piece, please direct me to the event.”

he cut off the communication at that and leaned back in his seet

“I am not going to enjoy this, oh well, if it will keep there cursed armies from running us through i suppose its worth it.”

Ooc: Thanks. My finger was starting to hurt. Been poking her for days.

:shock:

The journey across the sea of Halenbree lasted no more than a few hours and shortly before the hovercraft found itself close enough to be noticed by the Tarasovkian monitoring systems it send out a transmission.

“<Tarasovkian> control. This is the NEXT hovercraft <Devine-Wind>. <We> are transporting <Giver-of-Will> so that he//it may be present for the coronation of <Mikhail-Shakhovskoy-zero-zero-two>

<We> request permission to enter <your> waters and request a designation//location for <us> to set <our> vehicle down.
As per instructions, none of the military units shall exit the hovercraft.

========

As the message was sent, Prometheus-002 himself sat within the area central area of the hovercraft that had been redesigned to allow biological creatures to travel with it while not suffering discomfort… It was still far from luxurious though.
The light blue symbol of Prometheus on a black background, the two Greek symbols representing Alfa and infinity, interwoven to each other, was represented everywhere in the room. Walls, the floor, the honor guards and even the heavy shoulder guards and wrist bracers that were part of Prometheus’s biosiuit.

“How… vein.” The human copy of <Giver-of-Will> muttered absently, uncaring of the scrutinizing ‘looks’ of the guards, they did not have permission to question him, only the true prometheus had that... And it wasn't here right now.

The Dominion of Talkos regrets that Generalismo Simone will not be able to attend, due to the fact that he has been dispatched to the WTE meeting. But we will be sending another representative, another of our High Council member, "Doc" Bolivar, as well as several aides. We would like to extend out congratulations to the soon to be Grand Duke and hope that relations between our two nations continue to be as good as they have been in the past.

--------------
In the High Council Chambers
"We have to send somebody, you all know how good our relations with them have been in the past. We're isolated enough as it is." Argued Charles "Citizen" Yang.

"Ahhh heck, you know how much I dislike nobilitah! I've tried and tossed in prison more than a few." Drawled "Doc" Bolivar.

"You have to go Doc. There's nobody else who can be a cover for our Head of Intelligence."

"Head of Intelligence? Selkos Pavar, she's going! Ahhh naaa, that spook really..."

"She isn't going as on operative, just to look around, get a feel for the new leader. If it wasn't a national secret that she existed, she'd be the one going. Even though I hate to send you both, it's necessary."

"Alright Charlie, just makes me nervous. You'll be the only one here."

"Yes, the High Council has never had so many of its number gone before. Admiral Marcos is defending the Falklands. Generalismo Simone and the Professor are at the WTE summit. You and Selkos will be going to this reception. The nation will be nearly leaderless. No, go, I'll take care of things."

"Ahhh heck, you know how much I dislike nobilitah! I've tried and tossed in prison more than a few." Drawled "Doc" Bolivar.


OOC: *waves little flags*

Yay! A CrM xenophob and a Talkos anti-nobility guy...
I have a feeling this is going to be one 'active' RP :P

IC:

TDI HQ,
Capital City of Vigvar,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

The Joint Chiefs Council was underway. TNDF, TNSD, TISD and TDI chiefs were sitting around one large round table discussing the security measures. The TNSD was briefing about possible foreign agents on the territory of the Grand Duchy. The TISD was briefing about the reenforced police presence in the streets, about how it took under surveilance certain 'persons', , special officers ready to intervene any time. The TNDF was briefing about how anything suspicious entering GDT sovereign space would be blown up first and not asked questions later. The TDI, among other reports, was briefing about the guests that would be coming.

- We have had some annoyance from the part of the General Thealas who just wants to come... We offer the TNSD agents to take him under close surveilance due to the recent actings of Thelas inside of Sisgardia and due to the... 'show' we have seen during DNL coronation.

TNSD chiefs nodded and quickly wrote the necessary dispositions.

- Then... the fate of William of Elendil is still unclear. We believe him to be in Menelmacar... Although... the elves have shot down several of the dropships fleeing DNL territory towards them. We fear William was in one of the downed craft. We have orders not to intervene into the situation.
As of Shaul - his new governement has expressed no wish to attend the ceremony...

Now... we have had highetened tensions between the TofY and EOTED. Dread Lady Nathicana is among the guests, as is Empress Rialla. The TDI will make sure there are no clashes of interest. Further concerning Empress Rialla: Der Angst is known for its 'cold' feelings towards EOTED...
I offer taking the Der Angst representatives under close surveilance, yet again - especially after what happened during the DNL coronation...
Speaking of Menelmacar... they too had some arguing going on with EOTED. Yet again, we will do all possible to prevent any clashes. More than that, since Thealas is now a subject of Sirithil, we expect her to watch her vassal closely...

All in all, we will deploy 'additional measures' to ensure the safety of the EOTED delegation, especially due to the recent anti-EOTED coalition.

A TISD chief nodded and spoke.

- The diplomatic staff and civilians from the anti-EOTED coalition are already under police surveilance.

The Joint Chiefs nodded. The TDI Officer continued.

- We now have a certain... 'problem'... concerning CairnTarra and Talkos.
Indeed, Albrecht Ennaismerriath is known as being a xenophob. I offer TNSD take him under surveilance.
Speaking of "Doc" Bolivar - he is known for his... 'anti-nobility' attitude.
The TDI will take him and his delegation under surveilance.
We must ensure that nothing 'out of bonds' happens.

We expect no trouble from Giver-of-Will of the NEXT. Of course, we will keep him under surveilance.

We are sure the Vortex delegates will cause no trouble. I suggest we leave them without major surveilance. However, if General Thealas comes, we must make sure the delegations don't clash.

Special situation now - Emperor Nemerov. After the anti-Earth speech of the new SB Sky Marshal, the Emperor is 'badly' seen by certain Earth nations. I offer dispatching a squad of TDI STO operatives to guard the Emperor during his stay.

Tet again, pens touched paper and needed dispositions were written.

- We are still expecting other delegations to confirm their coming.

Thank you for your attention.

A member of the TNDF High Command then stood up and began his briefing.

- Honourable Collegues, the TNDF will ensure that no foreign agression happens during the ceremony. We have received 'full privileges to act' during the festivities and have already deployed important ... ... ... ...

The briefing went on, dispositions being made, decisions being taken...

ooc: bah! i resent that..,. ALL Tarrans are xenophobic :P
ic:

Albrecht sat in the lounge of the phoenix, he used the comunicater to speek to the two attendents who were flying the ship,

“any word from Tarasovka?”

“Not yet sir, they are probably overwhelmed by guests”

“bah! they PROBABLY have countless missiles targeted at us right now. *sigh* ill re send the request
>transmission on<
Tarasovka control? seeing as you haven't accnologed my landing request yet i will rephrase the introduction. I am Albrecht Earthson, Speaker in the high council of Cairn Tarra and acting Speaker for internal Affairs, i have been invited here for the coronation of your new leader can you please direct me to a suitable landing site
>transmission off<
oh and... remind me to send a communiqué to Lammas before i leave the ship,

“yes sir.... and sir?”

“what?”

“are they really that bad, the Tarasovkins?”

“they all are, and there worse two, everything they make is designed to kill, i read a report from that WTE telling that they planned to put a huge orbital cache of weapons in space so that if any of us steeped out of line, they could raign down vengeance”

*silence*

the ship sped up slightly in a holding pattern. every so often, it made a little jink, form one side to another, as if avoiding some sort of invisible weapon

ooc: and who said Xenophobia isnt fun? :P :D

The EOTED airborne warship IDAS Elen-macil cruised at a surprisingly gentle speed - quite a ways down below the speed of sound, in fact. An EOTED ship flying at subsonic speed is perhaps surprising enough - but the IDAS Elen-macil is one of that rare breed of ships that EOTED has: a Tyelca Tuo class air destroyer. With every inch of the ship representing the absolute echelon of EOTED technological ability, the class is by far the most advanced at EOTEDs disposal - not as powerful in armaments, of course, as some of the larger ships... but no other ship in the EOTED inventory (as it were) can boast the armour and sheer maneuvaribility that a Tyelca Tuo class warship can. Her hull is composed of quite literally billions of nanomachines - allowing her shape to change rapidly, within certain parameters. And furthermore, the nanomachines are a form of armour in and of themselves; nearly two feet thick, in fact. The very hull itself is the engine of the ship, fulfilling a duel role: motive propulsion, and armour.

Normally the Tyelca Tuo class ships look rather like a large M# - but today, considering the more peaceful mission of the Elen-macil, she is graceful and swanlike in form. Her 'wings' - forward-swept, claw-like affairs - are less angular, less predatory. It is a subtle difference, but she does not ooze the same deadliness that the 'assualt configuration' would.

And her gunports are sealed tight.

She flies at 250,000 feet, as is usual for a ship of her class in transit, and, having already gained clearance to enter Sisgardian airspace (and then Taraskovyan airspace, which is where she finds herself currently), her commops officer requests permission to land at the appropriately close airfield or airport.

Once attained, she performs the often-alarming maneuver that all EOTED air-based assets are quite famous for: she simply falls out of the sky.

As she reaches appropriate height, she arrests her downwards motion, coming to a graceful - if rapid - halt bare inches above the ground. Small hermetic seals clamp the ship to the ground, and she vibrates slightly as they make contact.

Perhaps astonishingly, her hull ripples, and a segment of the hull simply... drops away. It flows, looking somewhat like a walking wall, rippling downwards and forming not only an entrance but a gangplank to the ground. Interestingly, the gangplank even manages to form the illusion of red carpet.

As the foreign aircraft are guided to the appropriate docking terminals, their hatches open and the dignitaries come out, they are greeted by a salute of the Officers of the Elite 1st Airborne TND GF Division. All in dark black parade uniforms, sons of the most honorable Taraskovyan families. The 1st Airborne was sometimes even compared with the Alexander Guard Honorary Regiment, with a slight difference - whilst you had to be son of the Highest Nobility to even have a chance to enter the Alexander Guard, the 1st Airborne recruited anyone as long as that 'anyone' was worth it.

Rialla, Semir-randil, Ambassador Nejure, and a woman some might know as Sarah stepped down along the red gangplank and onto the waiting red carpet.

Rialla, as ever, wears her luxuriously soft-looking hair down her back - it does not swish or sway all that much as she walks, yet retains a look of fluidity. Nobody quite knows how she manages that; but it does serve a purpose: it adds an air of mystery to the stunningly beautiful Nenyan Empress' persona. High cheekbones and blazingly beautiful amber eyes (the irises flecked, if one looks carefully, with green and blue) are offset by curiously curved, almost Quendi-like ears; her clothes are, as ever, opulent. A swaying, ankle-length, figure-hugging (it could be body paint, if it were not for the slight motion of the fabric as she walks) gold-white-and-blue silk-smooth shift covers her from just below the shoulders. Woven in exquisitve detail upon each hip are two different forms of the Three Star Sigil; one, the Imperial Three Star Sigil, bears the double-lightning insignia that indicates her house - ux-Rihad - and her stature. The other is the standard Three Star Sigil, placed slighly lower on her hip. A faint smear is visible on the right side of her throat. She wears a barely visible, unassuming circlet upon her head, with a single emerald set into the front slightly forward-thrust tip.

Semir-randil wears his hair around his shoulders, clipped evenly and primly into shape. He wears a full IDF Command uniform, complete with his four rankpins, and six stars upon each shoulder indicating his position as UCINC IDF. He wears an identical circlet to Rialla. One one wrist sits a bracelet, of sorts, with the Imperial Three Star Sigil engraved unto it - the First Minister's bracelet.

Ambassador Nejure wears a simple gold tunic with a single blue streak running from right shoulder to left hip.

Sarah wears a simple blue tunic, with no adornments anywhere on her body. It is very revealing, being low cut at the upper portion of her breasts and curving suggestively at the knees - and very figure-hugging; even more so than Rialla's clothing. It does not move when she does. In point of fact, she is not wearing clothes at all - but that isn't apparent merely by looking at the ASI's avatar.

All four - even though only three were scheduled to attend - gaze around with faint curiousity. Only Semir speaks, to say, "Well, here we are."

This draws a fairly sharp look from Rialla. They merely nod and smile when spoken to, giving quiet responses to any questions they might face.

Of course, the foreign dignitaries make their way through on red carpets. They are greeted by members of the Department for Foreign Affairs, which immediately guide them to luxurious Aircraft. The rather large Aircraft are equipped with everything to make one feel comfortable - fine furnitures, decorations, tapestries. A bar with all drinks immaginable - ranging from pure mineral water to elven wine(Menelmacari of course, the Grand Duchy doesn't have loads of elven trade partners).

Rialla, Semir, and Nejure all drink mineral water. Each of them attempt to keep their distaste disguised at the percieved primitive nature of the aircraft; Semir succeeds more than the other two, however. Rialla and Nejure scowl very, very faintly when they discover just how luxurious the aircraft is; luxury is not expected, nor wanted. However, they are far too polite to complain, of course. If asked with regards to the scowls, Nejure simply smiles and suggests that the flight to Tarasovka had been a little 'bumpy' - which, of course, it hadn't.

The Aircraft take off, they are each joined by two fighter aerodynes of the Elite 7th Air Wing - the so called 'Sky Pride of the Duchy' - and swiftly carry the guests and their TDFA 'greeters' to the Sacred Citadel of Zynthris, where the final preparations for the ceremony, to take place at dawn, are already being made...

The golden and lean Poseidon-class sea vessel's hypermatterial engines emitted a long and low humming sound, as the pilots slowly decreased the transport's speed. Few moments later, a loud sucking sound was followed by a complete halt of the ship, still floating in the center of the Sea of Million Tears, Tarasovkyan ocenic territory.

"Switch engines 2,3 and 4 from HP-UB to DAI. Shut down engines 1 and 5" Ordered the pilot, from the glass-domed control pod in the frontal part of the vesser "And lock down those subtensors, lift to flotation. We are entering shallow waters, and I don't want to ruin this ship"

To his right side, one of the copilots moved his mechnochair towards a nearby panel of controls "Switching engined 2,3 and 4...now" He pressed three translucent buttons at the same time, while holding a small lever with his other hand "Engines now on antimatter -he pressed two other buttons- Engines 1 and 5 shooting down. Injecting coolant to the HP core -he extended his hand and moved eight different switches, and pressed one button at the end of the line- Subtensors locked down. Switching to flotation mode" Inmediately after, the whole vessel made a short jump, as part of it's structure came to float over the water. It waved for a while, until the stabilization liquid cycling system was activated, taking away the movements and leveling the ship.

The pilot noded "Communications. I want you to contact port control at Vigvar, and recuest docking clearance"

"Inmediately" Answered a man at the other side of the spherical control room. He signaled the system to open commlinks with the proper port control "This is FSD 77-105 Vorzaikoff, on diplomatical visit to Vigvar. We request docking clearances. SFN security codes being transmitted to you...now" The man turned to the pilot "Request sent -he said, while the encripted codes were tarnsmitted to it's target.

"Very well, let move now. Engines, give me power on 2,3 and 4. Flotation, stabilize for low speed travel. Communications, hurry up with those clearances. Services -he turned to the awaiting man, standing near the entrance of the pod- tell the dignataries that we are soon to enter port"

OOC:
Important points:

1. Tarasovka, and not Taraskova, etc.

2. Taraskovyan and not: Tarasovkan, Taraskovian, etc.

2. About clearence RP's:

I follow one very simple policy :

IF you're invited, you have defacto the clearence.
If you are NOT invited, then you will NOT get it any way.

Thank you for your attention.

IC:

- Attention Phoenix, this is Vigvar AT Control, this is Vigvar AT Control, clearence codes accepted. Change your approach vector to [coords] to begin approach of Vigvar International Airport.
Welcome to the Grand Duchy.

The BSI was treating all clearence requests immediately. Of course - it was a BSI, not some human controller.

- Attention FSD 77-105 Vorzaikoff, this is Vigvar AT Control, clearence codes accepted. Change your approach vector to [coords] to begin approach of Vigvar International Airport.
Welcome to the Grand Duchy.

Throughout the evening, the BSI would be busy giving out clearences and coordinates, under the watchfull eye of human controllers, always ready to intervene. On this particular occasion, the entire gigantic complex of the Vigvar International Airport/Spaceport was sealed off. In place of civil controllers, the highest specialists of the TNDF were sitting by the controls.
The entire runway was cleared off from civil aircraft, all airtraffic rerouted to Bogatyr International Airports. On the runway, elite TND IG(Interior Guard) elements were guarding. Hoverdynes were dislocated a bit everywhere, the complex patrolled by troopers in combat armor, all this backed up by secretly positioned TDI Black Wolves Tactical Forces teams.
Not that the Grand Duchy feared anything, but just that the Taraskovyans hated to do something partially. "Either you do it, either you don't" the old proverb says.

As the foreign aircraft are guided to the appropriate docking terminals, their hatches open and the dignitaries come out, they are greeted by a salute of the Officers of the Elite 1st Airborne TND GF Division. All in dark black parade uniforms, sons of the most honorable Taraskovyan families. The 1st Airborne was sometimes even compared with the Alexander Guard Honorary Regiment, with a slight difference - whilst you had to be son of the Highest Nobility to even have a chance to enter the Alexander Guard, the 1st Airborne recruited anyone as long as that 'anyone' was worth it.

Of course, the foreign dignitaries make their way through on red carpets. They are greeted by members of the Department for Foreign Affairs, which immediately guide them to luxurious Aircraft. The rather large Aircraft are equipped with everything to make one feel comfortable - fine furnitures, decorations, tapestries. A bar with all drinks immaginable - ranging from pure mineral water to elven wine(Menelmacari of course, the Grand Duchy doesn't have loads of elven trade partners).

The Aircraft take off, they are each joined by two fighter aerodynes of the Elite 7th Air Wing - the so called 'Sky Pride of the Duchy' - and swiftly carry the guests and their TDFA 'greeters' to the Sacred Citadel of Zynthris, where the final preparations for the ceremony, to take place at dawn, are already being made...

<to be continued once more guests arrive :P
Normally that was to take place when ALL the guests arrived, to save time, but well... copy-paste to be forseen :D >

The Imperial President and his wife will gladly attend the Coronation Ceremony, as will the President's younger sister, if that is permitted.

We trust out Taraskovyan friends, and shall not be bringing guards to the occasion, though it is hoped that the attendees will be allowed to keep their honor blades.

http://people.vanderbilt.edu/~darion.c.smith/obvious.png Deanna Humphrey, Third Ambassador, International Relations Directorate
The Federation of Sentient Peoples (http://people.vanderbilt.edu/~darion.c.smith/)
Federation Roleplay Policy (http://people.vanderbilt.edu/~darion.c.smith/rppolicy.html)

A small diplomatic courier shuttle, Eagle-class, slid across the waves and through the air, carrying the Federation delegation quickly towards Vigvar International Airport, for the President's own vessel was out at Jupiter, carrying Cortana to her meeting with Angelus.

Transmissions lanced back and forth as the shuttle sought clearance to land.

To the Esteemed Senators of Tarasovka:

Saluti! I am honored to be invited to such a prestigious celebration, and will of course attend. I understand the need for security, of course, and will abide by your strictures.

I wonder, if I may make a request, and rather than the typical honor guard so many leaders require, be allowed to have accompany me a companion, and my sister? I would take it as a personal favor, and a much appreciated concession for my comfort.

With warm regard and much thanks,

http://home.mchsi.com/~ketri/wsb/links/Nath7.jpg
--Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion

OOC: Bastard forums...you don't even want to know how many times I posted in a row...

"I am pleased to be invited to such an event. Relations between Tarasovka and Steel Butterfly have been dilluted as of late, and I wish to reverse that trend. However, due to unfortunate situations with the Sol System, I will be attending with personal guards. I hope that is not a problem."

"May we remind His Imperial Highness that no armed foreign personel will be allowed during the festivities. The guards of His Highness are more than welcome but they will have to surrender all their weaponry to the Taraskovyan security personel. The weapons will be returned once the delegation of His Highness will be leaving the Grand Duchy.

We beg pardon for such measures, but they are taken to avoid any security risks to the guests. We hope that His Highness understands us.

If His Highness wishes so and seriously fears for his security, he will be accompanied by everal TDI STO Operatives during his stay in the Grand Duchy. But we reiterate the fact that the security is overly tight and no hostile elements will pass through.

Thank you for your attention."

~ TDI Leib-Colonel Yliushin.

"This will be...taken into consideration. Either way, my guards are very advanced at marshall arts and melee weapon combat if the need arises. I trust your security...I'm just not the most liked leader these days. Regardless, I rarely get out, and count the hours until this celebration. I await the date of these festivities."

http://invisionfree.com:54/43/101/upload/p1.gif
Emperor Alexander Nemerov
Star Empire of Steel Butterfly,
In the Orion Sector which includes:
Steel Isle, Steel Moon,
CTaNbHaR Eabo4Ka, XIII,
Aeisis, Bivens, Esthar VIII
Orion Sector Alliance Premier,
Order of the Seraphim,
(Un-named Trade Consortium)

A multitude of airships cruised low over the waves, dull nonreflective black as they skimmed at full speed, barely missing the water. On nine of them, the shapes of missiles and weapons pods could be discerned, the tenth was different, aside from the black paint was the flag of the Dominion of Talkos prominently on the side. As they approached Taraskovyan airspace, the nine heavy skimmers, born of an illicit romance between helicopters and fighters, peeled off, gaining altitude as they turned back to international airspace.

"This is Condor 1 to escorts. Thanks, but we can take it from here." The single ship transmitted to the others.

Affirmative. It's good that we got the chance to be out, not enough wars... Crane squadron out."

When challanged the single skimmer began to transmit it's clearence codes.
"This is Talkosian Diplomatic Vessel with our delegation on board. Transmitting codes now....Thank you Tarasovka control, we'll follow your flightpath."

The Talkosian ship slowly decended as it reached its docking terminal. Settling only on its fans it the wind whipped at the assembled troops. Out walked the delegation, "Doc" Bolivar, dressed in formal black, his hair slicked down, the streaks of gray standing out prominantly. Beside him a brown haired woman stepped out, dressed in a formal suit, her eyes, cat eyes, took everything in. As the Officers began to salute, Doc Bolivar scowled, and gestured to the first one in the line with his cane.

"Son, you don't need tah salute. Just a down home countrified lawyer, that I'm where I am now, that's a matter of just doin' what one ca-" He was cut off by a firm grip on his arm, sharp nails, nearly claws, pressed through his sleeve.

"Not, now." Whispered the aide.

Doc shrugged and coughed. "Well. You keep up the good work son. We'll be on our way 'ere." They began to walk down the carpet, and Doc started to whisper to the aide. "Heh, lookit this, extravagence, I sah, a sin ,I s-" Once more his arm was gripped.

"If, I recall you have quite a nicce place yoursself. Now, quiet, they can probably hear you." Whispered back the aide.

They reached the greeting comittee and began to shake hands. The Doc introduces them as the Delegation from Talkos, Council Bolivar, "Call me Doc" and his aide, Selkos Pavar. They then continue on to the large aircraft.

Doc quickly made himself comfortable, opening a bottle of whiskey and drinking straight from the bottle. "Ahhh, that's good. Can't imagine why we couldn't just go on in our own ship...ohh, that's right, bloody paranoia. Ahh well, least they know how to stock a bar." Selkos simply rolled her eyes, and went back to examining the faces of the Taraskovyans, as if memorizing and catagorizing, in a mental factfile. She then turned and replied to Doc.

"Migh asss well enjoy the ride."

I wonder, if I may make a request, and rather than the typical honor guard so many leaders require, be allowed to have accompany me a companion, and my sister? I would take it as a personal favor, and a much appreciated concession for my comfort.

With warm regard and much thanks,


"Most Honoured Lady Nathicana,

The guests are of course allowed to bring an escort that they esteem to be needed. The only exception to such a rule is the Thelasian delegation, but we have serious reasons to do so.
The Most Honoured Dread Lady is, therefore, more than welcomed to bring her companions to the ceremony. If the companions are to be armed with ranged weapons, they will be asked to surrender their weaponry to the Guards.
A ceremonial seal will be put on the scabbards of the ceremonial blades of the members of your delegation. If the blade is taken out, the seal will be broken easily, but will send a signal to the nearest guards who will immediately rally to the point.
All this is done by precaution and to ensure full safety of the guests.

We deplote having to take such drastic measures, but certain of the guests represent nations that have numerous ennemies and their leaders are, as such, targets to possible attempts. The Grand Duchy will not allow any such attempt break the joyfull atmosphere of the ceremonies and celebrations.

Thank you for your attention."

~ Senatorial Committee for Foreign Communications.


We trust our Taraskovyan friends, and shall not be bringing guards to the occasion, though it is hoped that the attendees will be allowed to keep their honor blades.

"To the Most Honoured Deanna Humphrey,

The Grand Duchy recognizes the sacred right of noble leaders to have their ceremonial weaponry with them at all time.
However, due to security reasons, a rather ceremonial seal will be put on the scabbards of the blades. If the blade is taken out, the seal will be broken easily, but will send a signal to the nearest guards who will immediately rally to the point.
All this is done by precaution and to ensure full safety of the guests.

We deplote having to take such drastic measures, but certain of the guests represent nations that have numerous ennemies and their leaders are, as such, targets to possible attempts. The Grand Duchy will not allow any such attempt break the joyfull atmosphere of the ceremonies and celebrations.

Thank you for your attention."

~ TDI Leib-Colonel Yliushin.

"This will be...taken into consideration. Either way, my guards are very advanced at marshall arts and melee weapon combat if the need arises. I trust your security...I'm just not the most liked leader these days. Regardless, I rarely get out, and count the hours until this celebration. I await the date of these festivities."

"His Imperial Highness is cordially awaited in the Grand Duchy.
We hope his stay will be pleasant to both sides and will help correct certain 'unclear points' in the current relations between the Star Empire and the Grand Duchy."

OOC: Bah, since everybody else is coming, I think you can go ahead and make your arrival post, too :?

A huge craft had touched down on the airport near the Taraskovyan capitol. The logistics officer had figured that the second most powerful individual in the corporation would be flying in the biggest aerodyne he could find. Of the several craft available to the higher levels of policitians in the Corporation, this was certainly the biggest.

When the stairs had slided down to the ground, Councelor Delendre exited the vessel. Without any considerations for protocol whatsoever, he hurried down to the ground where he passed by the Taraskovyan representatives without a word, and came to a stop before a younger man. For a moment, they looked each other in the eyes. Then, they gave each other a firm hug, with tears in the eyes of the both of them. For the first time in years, the Councelor saw his son again. For the past years, his son had been in the service of Tarasovka as personal aid of the Grand Duke. Now that the throne would pass on to another ruler, Delendre's only child could finally return to the Corporation.

Now turning his attention to the GDT representatives, he started greeting them. Some of them were greeted in formal manner, but with most of them, he made some informal small talk. The many affairs between GDT and TVC had resulted in extensive contacts between the politicians and diplomats of both nations.

While Delendre greeted old friends and made new acquaintances, other TVC delegation members exited the plane. Battlemages, the various Councils, the Daiamid, the Kiithid, the Conglomerates, each of them had dispatched at least one representative. While Delendre would be doing the main agenda of activities, the others would be around the city meeting politicians and captains of industry on numerous receptions and small conferences, all in order to strengthen the ties between the two nations even further.

With all the delegates getting into the vehicles standing by on the runway, the massive aerodyne proceeded to the nearest hangar. When it had entered the structure, the rear doors opened. Men and women, dressed in black, came out, each carrying a bag and small military suitcase. Several black hoverdynes came sliding out of the aerodyne cargo bay, and the 24 special forces were quickly to get in.

Half an hour later, the head of security for the coronation thread was tapped on the shoulder, while he was busy with his tasks for the coronation.

"Sir, 23rd Black Wolf Special Forces unit reporting for duty. We have orders to integrate with the GDT security elements concerning the Coronation. Here are our mission orders"

Minutes later, the orders had been checked, double-checked, and verified again. Within the hour, the Black Wolf unit had been assigned to their new duties.*

--

*ooc: in other words, disturb the conference, and TVC joins GDt in the ass whooping.

The Eagle-class courier carefully settled onto the tarmac, and the boarding ramp extended.

Two people descended. The Imperial President D'ron Smith, dressed in the darkest black nano-fabrics that the Federation could produce, his cape hanging nearly to the ground. He offered up his sword to the waiting guards so they could peace bond it.

Lesley was dressed in a fairly tight white jumpsuit, again, of nano-fabric, with a dark green cape down to the ground as well, and she surrendered her knife to the waiting guards as well.

They said nothing, though, until they were spoken to. It was obvious who they were, from the flag painted on the side of the shuttle to the Federation seal clasping their cloaking capes.

The <Devine-Wind> arrived quickly as well, crossing both the sea of Cardinia and the Sea of Million Tears quickly.

Reaching their destination, the Hovercraft came large plateau where is turned off it's powerfull engines, the deafening roar of the propellors slowly fading away to silence. With the Hovercraft properly stopped a door in the side of it opened and a ramp automatically lowered.

Calmly two 'people' came out of the hovercraft and walked down to the plateau. Prometheus-002 and his personall guard, an Cybrid that could pass for a person wearing complete bodyarmor. Neither wore any weapons... Though some would consider the Exemplar Cybrid that guarded Promtheus to be a weapon in it's own right.

Prometheus looked around briefly to take in the scenery before he turned to the reception that awaited them, the neutral expression on his face almost 'magically' transforming into a pleased look with a simple raise of the lips and moving of the eyebrows.

OOC: Post Deleted pending some clarifications about the status of several guests.

The Reqiuem of Whispering Voices regrets that Crown Prince Rhys Ap'Gwidion is currently indisposed, however it will be our great honour and privilege to send our ambassador Dame Rhona MacIntyre to the celebrations of the Grand Duchy of Tarasovka and the inauguration of the new order.

-----------------------------------------------
Schiphol International Airport, Knootoss
-----------------------------------------------

Lousewies van der Laan, Prime Minister of the Dutch Democratic Republic of Knootoss walked over to the waiting Concorde, drawing some attention to herself with her bright pink outfit, a midi-skirt with a matching jacket and a black diamond broche. An import from Ruhr.

Though she wore sunglasses many Knootians in the lobby recognised her, and though some people stared it did not draw extraordinary attention. After all, the Prime Minister was just another member of government, even if she were a popular member.

A small child approached the Prime Minister, and she politely stopped and cuddled the boy and gave it a pat on the shoulder. But the engines on the Concorde were already roaring and the security people were getting nervous. Knootian politicians were careless, even after what happened to Tator.

The engines of the Concorde growled and pounded as she took off from Schiphol airport, turning to Sisgardia. The calm in the grey skies of Knootoss was disturbed, causing exactly 134 local complaints per phone for breaching the established sound limits of the airport that had slowly been swallowed up by the capital city.

http://www.admiroutes.asso.fr/larevue/2001/22/concorde.jpg

When the aircraft had breached the sound barrier, Lousewies unstrapped herself and relaxed with a good glass of whine.

“So, who will be there?”, she asked her secretary as she put off her shoes.

“Well, most of the Sisgardian fellowship and their friends. There should be a lot of old friends there.

Lousewies sipped her wine and nodded: “Yes, relations with the Grand Duchy have improved considerable since the sudden start of my administration.”

Tarasovka. They were enemies. And we mustn’t forget that. Friends as they may be now.
Images of the bombed The Hague came into her mind. The ruin the Dominion had caused there. And now the GDODAD was back, in a different incarnation, but nevertheless. The strategic analysts must be correct when they say they are no longer a threat. They better be, for all our sakes., she pondered. How things have changed…

She noticed that her conversation partner was shifting in his seat uncomfortably and asked: “Who else will be there? Any troublemakers?”

The secretary gave a small overview of the guest list:

…Well, there will be some… interesting people. Apparently the Taraskovyans are befriended with Emperor Nemerov. And another such colourful figure will be Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion.

“Oh my,” she exclaimed. “I’ve heard a great deal about her but we never actually met. It’s good to see a woman in charge though. As will it be good to see in person the next person to lead the Grand Duchy.”

She smiled as the plane began to lower it’s altitude and speed over Sisgardian territories…

The Knootians had arrived at the party.

Treznor runs through the shutdown protocols and confirms all systems are on standby before disconnecting himself from the neural jack, then swings the seat around, a broad smile on his face. "Thank you for letting me do that."

Nathicana chuckles softly, nodding. "Not bad, boy ... not bad. It's not everyone I let fly my baby here, you know."

"I didn't scratch the paint, did I?"

"If you did, it's your hide," she says, still smiling.

"Uh. Maybe next time I won't play tag with asteroids." He stands and stretches. "I feel like I have a few kinks to work out."

"I kind of like some of those kinks, Dev. Mind you don't work all of them out."

Treznor snorts and leans forward to touch his toes. "Wrong kinks, Red. Where's SHODAN?"

Shodey pokes her head from the door leading to the rear cabin. "Speak, and I'll appear." She nudges Nathi. "I'm still somewhat surprised the Taraskovans didn't do their homework to see that you technically don't have a sister, sis." She chuckles softly. "Would've set off my alarms, admittedly."

"True, it was odd, but then, I'm such a shining and well trusted member of the international community, who would dare question, eh?" she snorts, chuckling.

"Er, no comment." Treznor winks and exhales loudly. "Right, well, let's get out of this box...er...elegant flying machine and check in. I feel all stiff after that."

"What's in a designation, anyway? As you're fond of saying, perception is reality... sister."

Nathicana flashes Shodey a broad smile, a little mischief in her eyes as she stands and stretches. "Aye, Sister ..."

Shodey grins, cycling open the airlock to the outside as she responds in an oddly musical voice, arm crooked as if offered. "Sisters..."

Nathicana slips her arm through Shodey's, singing along. "Sisters ..."

Treznor shakes his head. "Women..."

"There were never such devoted sisters," they both sing, grinning broadly.

"Never had to have a chaperone No, sir ..." Nathi sings, sporting a look of feigned innocence.

Shodey winks and points at Nathi with a mischievous grin. "I'm here to keep my eye on her..."

Treznor taps his foot impatiently. "Could we move along before you two start into the dance choreography? They'll finish the coronation before you two finish."

Shodey raises her hand as if waving a large fan in front of her face, grinning at Trez.

Treznor gives SHODAN a mock frown. "I don't think it'll go well with the rest of her ornaments. Eyeballs are so last Mongol."

Nathicana takes on a brief look of mock insult, flashing Devon a quick grin as the both of them walk down the ramp, singing. "Caring, sharing ... Every little thing that we are wearing..."

"When a certain gentleman arrived from Rome," she sings, winking at Devon as they walk.

"No," he says firmly, shaking his head for emphasis. "I'm not singing."

"She wore the dress," Shodey gestures with her head to Nathi, then continues with a roll of her eyes, "and I stayed home!"

"I'm serious, I'm not doing it this time! Red, you know what a lousy singing voice I have!" His voice almost degenerates into whining at this point.

Shodey continues singing along with her sister-in-mind. "All kinds of weather, we stick to-gether, the same in rain or sun; two diff'rent faces, but in tight places, we think and we act as one..." Pausing in mid-step to look at each other, they nod firmly. "Uh-huh." Then they burst into fits of giggling at their lunacy and Trez's plight.

Nathicana reflexively puts her hand to her lips, giving Devon an only slightly apologetic look as she hugs Shodey, still giggling. "Oh come on now, dear," she says, offering her other arm to the man. "At least walk with us, hmm?"

Shodey hugs back with a grin, winking mischievously at Dev when she gets the chance. He pauses to pick up the luggage before following, sulking ever-so-slightly, close behind them as Nathicana tries unsuccessfully to stifle more giggles. "Oh, this is -so- un-Dread Ladylike ..."

"Not my fault. You know how I hate it when you two break into song!" he retorts.

Shodey shrugs, lightly ruffling the red-silk lined black cape borrowed from Nathi that currently graces her shoulders. "No matter, sis. And, really, Devon... I thought the traded capes would be a hint."

Nathicana ponders for a moment, still grinning broadly. "Why Dev, what a thing to say. We don’t sound that bad after all." She adjusts the short cape she's wearing, a beautiful shade of purple, complete with ornate Egyptian-style metallic necklace, that she'd borrowed in turn.

Treznor sighs again. "Women."

Shodey grins. "Lord help the mis-ter, who comes between me and my sis-ter..."

Nathicana is still grinning mischievously as she sings quietly in return, "And Lord help the sis-ter who comes between and my man." She chuckles again, then adds as an after thought to Devon, "Quit grumping, boy. I'll make it up to you later."

Shodey nods with a wink. "Touche."

"Lets see what the Taraskovyans have to offer, eh? Sounds like quite the affair they have planned." Nathi keeps walking, still grinning broadly, with a bounce in her step that hasn't been there for a while.

Shodey continues to chuckle, looking back at Dev. "Want any help with the luggage?" She doesn't attempt to hide her odd little glee, eyes and fiber optics glowing a soft turquoise.

Treznor hefts the large chest and tow-along suitcases casually. "Nope, I'm fine thanks. At least I'm stretching my muscles."

Shodey shrugs with a smile then lightly turns on the balls of her feet. "Your choice."

"You're sure you don't mind, boy?" Nathicana says over her shoulder with a sly grin. She nearly stumbles, not watching where she's going for a moment, letting her eyes wander over him appreciatively.

He imitates a beefcake muscle pose for a moment, then winks. "I'm positive. I got it. How many chances do I get to stop pretending, anyway?"

Shodey chuckles quietly to herself.

"You do damn fine work, sis," Nathi says quietly.

<LOS-Communications to Nathi>
{
<< Now now, sis, get across the airstrip first.
<< Enjoy the eye-candy later.
<< [chuckle analog]

<< Thanks for the compliment. It means a lot to me.
}

Nathicana suddenly blushes for no apparent reason, snapping her eyes forward, and pressing her fingertips again to her lips against her smile.

<LOS-Communications to Shodey>
{
<< Sincerely meant, sis. And what you've done for me, and for him, means more to me than I can say. Thank you.
}

"I'm rather proud of it myself... thank you." The electronic intelligence's avatar practically beams.

Treznor grunts noncommittally and looks around. "So where are our hosts?"

the invitation arrived just after Brain had sped off to the SFN conference at tevashi island. as usual it worked it's way through the various sorting processes at the capitol building and eventually ended up on the foreign minister windstrom's desk. realizing the inherent problem of not being able to put Brain in two places at once, she proceeded to draft a letter to the people of the GDT

To the people of the GDT (OOC, assume that she's spelling this out, because i sure don't want to :shrug: )

as i am sure you are aware the FTR has called a meeting of all SFN member nations at tevashi island. shortly before your invitation arrived, Brain had left Cupertino to attend this conference in person to represent our nations interests. as such he will not be able to attend. please accept our nations most humble appologies in this matter. i can only hope that my attendance in his place will not be of insult to your people


(Signed)

Arabeth Windstrom
Foreign Minister, Dominion of the lab mouse

with that, Minister Windstrom made plans for an immediate departure

Though Pilon received the message no responce was given and no Delegate sent. No Pilonese citizens wished to succumb to the Pilon Longing and all Ambassadors still living and able to be out of country were already out finishing up their foreign assignments before returning home.

post removed...
I-AM-AN-IDIOT
please continue...

OOC: Uhh... CrM, since I can't get to you via MSN, will have to tell here:

Each delegation gets its own aircraft, something like a beefed up luxurious VTOL dropship, to transport it to destination.

Yet again - security reasons.
Its much easier for the TNDF to keep track of many smaller targets than one huge airwhale that, if its taken down(0,0000000000000000000000000000001% of chances that it happens :roll: the risk '0' doesn't exist :( ), would kill all the delegations at once and would mean lots of headaches for the upcoming government :cry:

The plane wasn´t exactly 'impressive', being only about 40m long, totally unarmed, and bare of any decoration.

However, despite it`s obvious vulnerability, it looked... strange. Dangerous. The black surface... no, not black... countless blacks, mixing with each other, changing their form, their view... never resting, always fluctuating, together with the unique form of the plane, it`s enrmous height, and short wings, made one automatically feel... threatened.

However, this was perhaps due to the electromagnetic field the TP- enhancing plane created.

And one had to admit that somehow, the plane looked also beautiful, a never ending dream. A dream of darkness. A beautiful, wonderful darkness.

However, Aramaki and his niece, Sakurai, didn`t exactly care about the reactions the airport personal would show regarding the plane. Considering the rather close relationship between DA and the Grand Duchy, they suspected they were already used to it.

After an hour or so, they finally arrived at the ceremony, or rather, whereever the ceremony was about to be held. Sakurai wore her Katana and Wakizashi as if it was part of her usual clothing... well, since laws regarding weapon ownership did not exist in DA, they actually were part of her usual clothing. Except that this time, she wore more ceremonial swords, rather than her usual ones.

Aramaki had obviously aged since the last time was was guest at a coronation, he was now far more... well, even more uninteresting than before. However, Sakurai, now eighteen and Aramaki`s most likely successor, had changed as well. The cute, naive, nervous and clumsy girl from just about a year ago was now somewhat... stronger, self- confident.

Wearing a rather dark, but still beautiful Kimono, she entered the hall, obviously ready to get all the attention that was once supposed to be Aramaki`s.

Treznor grunts noncommittally and looks around. "So where are our hosts?"

OOC: Pardon if I make a small comedy part based on this statement? :wink:


IC:
Just as the hatches of Nathicana's aircraft open, the delegation is immediately greeted by a good dozen of men, in medium combat armor, painted into urban camouflage, bearing the insignia of the TND IG on it. All around the craft, hoverdynes have made a tight ring, with more TND IG troopers backing them up. The entire scene is happening on the ground tarmac of the airport. Snipers on the VTOL docking/landing platforms and on the roofs are already busy scanning the foreign aircraft...
All the barrels pointing at the aircraft...

And among all this, a group of men, most of them in ceremonial TDFA uniform, with a man in the uniform of a TDI Leib-Colonel are making their way hurriedly towards the craft. In fact, they are more running as fast as they could that just 'making their way'...
Well, actually the diplomats are running, the TDI Leib-Colonel is just walking quickly, in his dark-black uniform, quickly saying something into a commsdevice in his hand.
And the diplomats are not just running. They are yelling, forgetting all protocols...

- Ubrat' orujie, pridurki! (Weapons down, idiots!)

The troopers stand up from their kneeled shooting positions and get a bit further away from the aircraft. The hoverdynes also make some more distance between themselves and the aircraft...
Who appeares to be the head of the 'welcoming committee', a man in the ceremonial uniform of a Principal Councilor, advances towards the rather... uhm... amused? Is she really amused? What the...
Well, the diplomat, him, is very worried...

- Honorable Dread Lady, pardon us for this little 'show' but...

He points towards a whole other terminal quite... far... from the one by which the foreign aircraft stopped.

- Your delegation was directed to land at the Terminal over there... We are not sure what happened, if it was the BSI who made such a grave guidance mistake, it will be immediately checked for consistency but...
When we saw your aircraft 'miss' the landing spot and head right towards these gates here...

The diplomat sighs in relief.

- Hopefully some military officer that was near us gave order not to shoot...

Just as he is saying that, two more dropships land on the tarmac near the aircraft. One of them was a majestic luxurous craft, the other one a standart military 'Strij' class dropship.
From the 'Strij', a good two dozens of officers of the 1st Airborne jump out, in black parade uniform, and form two lines by the entrance to the luxury craft, standing in salute.
The TDI Leib-Colonel moves towards Nathicana and bows.

- Since we cannot greet you by the standart protocols, please allow us to at least correct the misunderstanding as much as we can. Pray, follow us to the transport that will take you to the place of the ceremony.

The Leib-Colonel then stood straight, clacks his fingers and two airport personel appear out of nowhere(actually from behind some hoverdyne, but thats a secret!), and take the luggage away from Treznor...
The Leib-Colonel then makes an gesture of invitation to follow him to the aircraft...

Nathicana tensed initially, her eyes widening a bit as the guns are leveled, muttering some very choice phrases in her native language under her breath. She of course froze, making no threatening movements, though in her mind, she was already thinking of options. How fast could she move ... what were the chances they could all take cover ...

As she took in the scene, she saw the delegates rushing forward to meet them, yelling and frantic, she relaxed. In fact, she laughed softly. Explanations were made, and she looked all the more amused for it.

"Well Dev, seems your aim was a bit off after all. I know you like to arrive with a bit of fanfare, but don't you think the twenty-one gun salute is a bit much?" she said with a wry grin, then turned to the diplomats and Colonel with a warm smile.

"Please, think nothing of it. No harm done, mistakes happen. Allow me to apologize for creating such a stir here - I've been teaching the good Emperor here how to fly, and I was remiss in my instructions. My fault entirely." To her companions she says, "Shall we?" proceeding then to follow as directed, still chuckling quietly to herself.

"After all," she continues quietly, "A tutto c'è rimedio, fuorchè alla morte."


Translation from the Italian: There is a cure for everything except death.

S.H.O.D.A.N., unsurprisingly, reacts much like her sister-in-mind.

"That is too true, sister."

<LOS-Communications to Nathi>
{
<< Well, they're rather lucky. I can deal with losing avatars, but I would hate to avenge the loss of my sister.
}

She makes sure to wave and grin at the confused troopers.

Important OOC note:

All involved in the thread,

Thank you for your participation, but I have some not-very-good news to announce.

Indeed, IRL, I am moving from one flat to an other and will have completely moved by tomorrow. As such, the telephone line on which I am now will get shut down, upon our request.
As such, I have asked my ISP to transfer my DSL connection from this line to the new one and they told me they'd be done by tomorrow.
Irony of fate, they phoned me today to tell me there were issues and they will have to make a new connection on the other line with my current parameters.
A proces which might take at least a week, by their words,
and at least a month by my own estimates.

I will try to jump on when and if I can from the nearest internet-connected terminal, but apart from that, I am sorry - won't be able to participate in my own thread due to technical reasons :cry:

Thank you for your attention,
And again, truly sorry for the inconvenience,

~ Mikhail, GDT player.

Treznor halts in his tracks, realising that someone has just made a monstrous mistake. Whether theirs or his, he has yet to determine. Even auged, there's no way we're going to survive an assault like this. Don't mind me, guys, I'm just carrying the luggage.

When the diplomats arrive he relaxes a little more, but throws a dark glance at Nathicana as she addresses him.

"Ahem, yes. Pilot in training. Should we move your ship over to where it's supposed to go, or will it be fine where it is now?"

<LOS Communications - Devon>
{
<< I take it I've some serious making up to do later, il mio dolce? If so, believe me, I look forward to it.

<< Don't take it too badly, Dev. They admitted it could have been their problem, and most likely, it was. Still, it never hurts to show a bit of good grace when a guest now, does it? Remember this day - it's one of the few you'll ever hear me admitting anything was my fault. [chuckle analog]
}

"If it needs to be moved, we'll move it. If not, I trust all will be well." She offers him her other arm with a smile and a knowing look. "Come, my dear. We've a coronation to attend, remember?"

OOC: Hopefully you have access to another computer to keep your account alive

OOC: Hopefully you have access to another computer to keep your account alive

OOC: Hopefully you have access to another computer to keep your account alive

OOC: Vacation mode + Game Mod friends...
I hope that'll help 'if anything' :?

OOC:
That's a shame... I was just about to show up fashionably late (as usual)... Good luck getting your connection back :)

IC:
Spike glances at the clock one more time. Blast, why is it I always lose track of time when it comes to *important* things?! Speeding along above The Dominion of Zethkur in his famous Swordfish X, Spike comes into range of GDT airspace controllers.

"Grand Duchy air traffic control, this is Spike Spiegal LXXIII of North-West Antarctica on approach for the coronation. I'm in a personal aircraft, no other guests or guards onboard."

"You realize the ceremony's been going on for hours already, don't you?"

"Yeah, yeah, rub it in, won't ya? I, uh, lose track of time often."

"But you live less than 1500 km away, and you can't be bothered to show up on time?! *sigh* Cleared to land in docking bay 63. Have a nice stay"

Sheesh, what stick was up that guy's.... wait, did I forget something? Nahhh....

Spike lands and hurries off to the party, late as usual.

Some minutes earlier, a small residence in North-West Antarctica burnt to a crisp as the microwave oven incinerated a slice of pizza, eventually causing it to light on fire. While this normally would not be a problem for a modern microwave oven, this particular slice of pizza was topped with Spike Spiegal LXXIII's favorite topping; so when the uranium-olives exploded, they took out not only the microwave, but the entire kitchen, and the rest of the dwelling quickly followed.

ooc: LOL!
ic:
Albrecht sat in the lobby of the small, but luxurious aircraft, it was larger and nicer then the phoenix, but it was filled with foreign technology, he hadn't eaten since breakfast and decided to try some of the foreign quinine,

he was expecting to find pile of blooded meet and a few small rodents, which one was required to kill before consuming...
the fridge greeted him with a good collection of well laid out foods. none of which one was required to kill before consumption. gingerly he picked up a chocolate bar, and took a seat..

what was he going to do with Teo... if tarra ha a death penalty, it would be exercised, the had thought about banning him from practising biology in any form, that would suck the joy right out of his life...
but that was only half the problem, Cairn Tarra was stuck in the middle of a diplomatic maelstrom with countless warmongers and barbarians, probably diving out the land, and dividing the shares in the flesh of his people as he sat there thinking about action...
It was that wretched crowd of crackpot sciences... he had planned to deal only with Zethkur in coming here. they had gone out and partitioned the council to send a diplomatic envoy to every country in the region!
the solution presented itself for the second time in two days,
elegant, economical, and no bloodshed required,
pass the diplomatic dealings of Cairn Tarra to the Council of sciences, let them dig there own hole. The one small problem, this would mean he would have to sacrifice his posting in the high council, if someone else was in charge of diplomatic issues, there was no need for external affairs. He didn't want to loose the seat, he liked power.

he finished the chocolate bar and stared out the small windows of the jet for a few moments before collecting another delicacy from the fridge.

he really shouldent have left Yagameed

OOC: Okay, we'll take this RP slow then. Maybe you missed my post, it was last on the page. To summarise:

*plane lands*

((OOC: Aww. Sorry to hear that. Agree with Knootoss, well take this rp slow then. Hope the ISP were right and get it done in an week.))

His first encounter with animals was not so bad, Prometheus-002 thought idly as he had by now taken place in the personal transport that would take him to wherever his hosts felt he needed to be.

The furniture onboard the aircraft was also far more enjoyable then the rather sparse one abourd the hovercraft. He could feel his frail human body relax in the luxurious recliner he sat in.

His bodyguard simply stood a small distance away from Prometheus, 'eyeing' the others within the plane. There had been some delay as the Taraskovyan guards checked both of them for any possibly hidden away weapons, most likely inspired by the war stylised body of his bodyguard and aid.
Despite the time it had taken, Prometheus-002 had to grudgingly admit the animals had been efficient in their task.

Leaning back in his recliner, the copy made flesh of <Giver-of-Will> accepted the glass of champagne and sipped from it, a pleased expression on his face as he believed to be the silence that was in the aircraft between the people to be less ackward than he would have expected. Still, it wouldn't hurt to use the time to further practise 'small-talk'.

dont-deleet-this-topic-yet-Bump

The plane began its decent, disappearing into the clouds, heading for the airport in Tarasovka, where the Empress had been invited to attend the coronation of the new Arch Duke, an event that always made her think of her own; the weeks of preparations, rehearsals, and more rehearsals, so everything would be fine on the day.

Gehenna walked down the plane's corridor, its cream walls refreshing and light, past rooms filled with officials and administration, all their to make certain that their ruler was kept abreast of everything, be it at home or information for the visit. She knew that these types of functions did more for international relations than an official state visit.

She entered the lounge area, where several large comfortable leather chairs filled the space, and smiled at the man occupying one of them, her eyes sparkling as she made her way to the chair next to his, her hand gently brushing his, that was resting on the arm rest.

"I'm sorry, I didn't think there could be so many last minute details to clarify." She turned her head, her eyes lazily taking in his face and torso. "I hope you've managed to keep yourself entertained?"

The man grins at her. "You have a very nice aircraft here, milady. So I was able to keep myself entertained somewhat. But as usual, your presence more than makes up for any previous lack of entertainment." He takes her hand in his own-gloved one, tracing her fingers one by one, intertwining his with hers.

Gehenna turns slightly in her chair, her leg slipping slightly under her body, as she faces him, one hand resting in her lap, as she rubs the back of his hand with her thumb, her fingers laced with his. She looks around her, taking in the décor of the plane, hardly breathtaking, even if you take into consideration the Tartarian Seals scattered across the walls; making it near on impossible to forget where you were, or what country you were representing, not that she had any trouble remembering, Tartarus was her life.

The seatbelt signal comes on, as the captain's voice announces that landing is imminent. Briefly letting go of his hand, Gehenna connects the two ends of her belt, replacing her hand in his as soon as she was finished.

"Have I thanked you for accompanying me?" She knew that she had mentioned it once already, but she knew it never hurt to keep reminding those that were doing you a favour that you actually appreciated their commitment.

He reaches down and buckles his seatbelt skilfully with one hand, smiling. Leaving his hand in hers, he smiles, and kisses her cheek lightly. "You've thanked me more than enough, milady. Accompanying you was the least I could do."

The engines began to whine as the air thickened as the plane descended below ten thousand feet. As the flaps extended, the wings howled against the wind, and the man gripped the Empress' hand tighter. He was not used to flying.

Then, the plane jerked as the wheels hit the ground, and bouncing, squealing and rubber melting from the sudden acceleration. The engines howled as the thrust reversers cut in, as inertia pressed the two forward, and the man's smile widens to a grin as he raises his eyebrows, and the plane ground to a halt.

Gehenna squeezes his hand tightly, letting it go, as the plane becomes a hive of activity, with people rushing around getting everything ready for her to depart. Standing up, she runs her hands through her hair, brushing it over her shoulders, then running her hand over the back of her skirt, removing any creases that may have been caused by sitting.

An aid walks up, passing her jacket to her, as he begins to fill her in with some last minute details that he feels may be important when meeting some of the other guests. She looks at the man still seated, smiling at him briefly before yet another member of the staff grabs her attention.

What feels like an eternity later, but is in fact less than thirty minutes, the doors of the plane are swung open and the Empress disembarks, her eyes flashing around her, taking as much detail as she can as she descends the steps, feeling her companion's presence not too far behind.

The man descends the stairs, exactly two steps behind the Empress with a measured gate. His jet black hair is slicked back, unaffected by the slight breeze, while a cape he's acquired somewhere flutters slightly, a long elven styled sword hanging from his belt. His clothing is so dark it seems to absorb the light around him. He stops behind her and speaks softly. "Remember, Empress, I'm Lord George Oliver Daniels."

The nod that Gehenna gives is barely perceptible to anyone, but conveys her understanding to the man walking closely behind her. She smiles a greeting to the welcoming committee, makes the necessary introductions and small talk, before proceeding down the red carpet to the waiting transport that will whisk the Empress and her escort to the Sacred Citadel of Zynthris.

Pausing briefly to smile at 'George', Gehenna follows her escorts into the plane, strapping herself in looking out of the window beside her, before turning her attention back to her companions on the flight, listening to any important information presented by the officials.

First International Airport,
Capital City of Vigvar,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

***

Windmill builders.

The place was swarming with activity. At one gate, the Knootian delegation was greeted by mainly those diplomats present during the signature of the KRS-ONE treaty. Those that were present during the negotiations that ended the Shadow War were absent. Better bring up good memories than bad ones.

- Prime Minister Lousewies, it is a pleasure to see that you have honoured us with your presence. Pray, we will guide you to the craft that will take you to the Sacred Citadel.

The Knootian delegation went through two rows of 1st Airborne officers, standing in salute, wearing their parade uniforms, and was guided to a luxurious aircraft. Not really big, just enough to accommodate the entire delegation.

***

The Terrible Sisters and... their Terrible Brother?.

Over at the tarmac, Lady Nathicana, SHODAN and Treznor were led to the aircraft that would take them to the Sacred Citadel. Her aircraft was left where it was. That gate was not to be used anyway, so it didn’t clutter any traffic.

Most of the military hoverdynes already retook their positions at a distance, several remaining by the aircraft, securing it from any threat possible. The troopers, in their combat armor, the heads covered by helms and faces hidden behind visors, retook their positions, as if nothing happened.

The Lady and her companions took place in the aircraft and it swiftly took off, followed by the escort aircraft…

***

The Modest Mighty.

The TDFA diplomats that did not follow EOTED’s delegation watched the guests take off in the aircraft.

- They sure were grim…

- Must be how they landed. I mean – you did see the way their vessel to land? It just fell out of the sky… Must hurt the stomach…

An other TDFA official was passing by and heard the conversation.

- There is some problem with the EOTED dignitaries?

- Not really. Empress Rialla seemed to be a little ‘not very good looking’ when we last saw her…

- Her trip went badly?

- Guess so…

- Uhm… wait a minute… delegation of EOTED… they got into a standart ‘Lebed’ aircraft?

- Yes, as did the rest of the dignitaries from other nations…

- And it was outfitted in the same way as the others?

- Of course. Luxurious as all leaders like it! Stuffed up with food, drinks and…

The diplomat shook his head.

- EOTED officials despise luxury! We have just offended the leaders of the Empire of Eternal the Dawn!

The rest of the diplomats gasped.

- But how come we know nothing about it?

- The Grand Duchy does not have much contact with EOTED, so only our Bureau was charged with EOTED-GDT contact… as such we learnt their customs and ways of living…

- Well, I am sure there was some mineral water there…

The rest of the diplomats gave the one who said that an annihilating look and the man only shrugged. There was nothing left to for now but to go issue a formal petition to the Coordinator for the EOTED delegation…

***

New guys in town.

- Euh… Sorry, Sir, this is TDI clearance. We are from the TND IG and as such attached to the TISD. But a minute, I will call a TDI officer…

The trooper said something into his helm radio, the signal to open transmission being rerouted directly from his brain by special inner upfeeds. In less than a minute, a team of TDI officers were standing, examining the papers presented by the Vortex Black Wolves. The commanding officer smiled broadly. He was a rather old man, a colonel. He looked at the Vortex men.

- Ah! So the two Black Wolves meet again! I had the honour to personally fight side by side with the members of your unit during the Ammerrican campaign! Yes, long ago it was…
Anyway, I will assign you to the security of the Resort Complex. The main party will be held there after the coronation, so you’ll have some time to get accustomed first.

The man made a motion with his arm and the Vortex Black Wolves were guided to a dropship in which a squad of STO operatives prepared to take off for their destination…

***

Best Friends of the Duchy.

Councelor Delendre and his delegation was guided to their aircraft, the young ex-adjutant of the Grand Duke talking to his father about the service in the Grand Duchy and about the weird way of the Taraskovyans to do diplomacy. He commented on some Taraskovyan proverbs, such as: “Trust the others, but always rely on yourself”, “There are never enough friends, but one enemy is more than enough”, “If two dogs fight, the third must stay out” and others of the same type…

***

The Silent Proud.

President D'ron and his wife were guided to the aircraft that was to take them to the Sacred Citadel. Two TND IG troopers that were on guard in the hall through which the delegation passed were discussing the event over through their helm radio.

- Well, those sure are silent.

- Yes. Well, our dippies will quickly talk them out!

The two men laughed.

- Yes, the TDFA guys get the most interesting part while we are here doing vigils. Sign up for the Security Forces they said, sigh up for the Security forces!

Suddenly the voice of their commander broke into the frequency.

- Vassily, Nathak, cut off the chatter and return to duties!

- Yes, Sire!

- Of course, Sire!

And everything went on as usual...

***

The One Who Has My Soul.

Empress Gehenna and her Companion were greeted warmly and led to the aircraft. On the road, they chatted with the diplomats about life in the Grand Duchy, cultural and other aspects…
The beautifull Empress was of course attentively followed by a sniper team up on a platform somewhere... over there... Hey, sniper team positions are secret, mind you!

- And who is she?

- Empress Gehenna of Tartarus. Devils Desert region.

- We have ties with them?

- Well, we do have ties with the Devils Desert region... and I guess we'll have ties with Tartarus soon enough...

- I wish she'd brought over some girls from over there, if they are all like her!

- That Nathicana lady is pretty good, too...

Somewhere, a high ranked officer slapped his forehead and sighed. The men were already pretty tense, they needed to relax somehow...
But rules were rules, and so he intervened into their frequency to politely ask them to bloody stop the chit-chat and get to their duties immediately.

***

Most 'Dear' Guests.

Aramaki and his niece were greeted as all other delegates, with a small exception. Two members of the VerTech Administrative Council were present. Some talks were to be held about a possible exchange of shares between major corporations, so the VerTech officials were there to greet the dear guests...

***

[OOC2: More to come up later. Trying not to make a huge mega post for now ;) ]

[OOC3: I have put little titles to 'codename' each delegation. If you don't like them, tell me - I'll take them off and replace with a normal name. Just thought it'd be nicer that way ^-^]

After the blades were returned to them, D'ron and Lesley followed the escort to their transportation. In the ancient battle tongue, Lesley asked him, D'ron, is the silence bothering you?

D'ron gave a curt nod in reply.

After boarding the small plane some moments later, and each taking a glass of wine, though it was unlikely they would drink much at this point, they sat down in chairs.

Or, more accurately, in one chair. D'ron sat, with one arm wrapped around Lesley, who was seated in his lap and leaning against him.

To a member of the escort he asked, "So, what do we know about the ceremony before we arrive?"

Delendre listened to his son, and carefully observed him at the same time. When he had left, Meher was like many other young men in the Corporation: well trained, slightly addicted to sport, well-educated and, unfortunately, a little bit too prepared to get involved in matters that were none of his concern. His stay in the GDT had obviously done him well. It was obvious that his son had become a strong man, schooled in diplomacy and the other facets of politics, each of them a specialty of the Duchy, he had to admit.

"And father...I've even seen their own special forces train once. It is remarkable how many similarities there are with our own units, yet at the same time they are so very different..."

While his son continued his stories, Delendre thought of how old he had become in the past few years. Crisis after crisis he had survived, and on many occassions even with a profit. Naturally, he would live for many more years, he wasn't that old. But it did him well to see that his heir was a capable and wise young man. Of course, the Daiamid could issue a vote of mistrust in his son, which would allow them to choose a new chairman from amongst their ranks, but that law was merely a formality. Delendre smiled, knowing the future would be bright.

Aramaki and his niece were greeted as all other delegates, with a small exception. Two members of the VerTech Administrative Council were present. Some talks were to be held about a possible exchange of shares between major corporations, so the VerTech officials were there to greet the dear guests...


Aramaki decided to leave this negotiations for Sakurai. His niece would soon enough follow him, she needed some practise.

Enjoying the landscape, he thought about the past, the present... the future. It wouldn´t be his future... He didn´t know just how right he was...

---

Meanwhile, another plane started from DA, it`s destination: The Grand Duchy of Tarasovka.

However, this one had a very special cargo...

Doc Bolivar nursed a brandy as he watched Selkos pace the length of the plane warily. This was the first time he had been able to study the usually hermit-like spymaster. Stalking back and forth, each movement a graceful combination of form and function.... and the mind that controlled it, deadly, and ruthless. He nearly jumped as she twirled around and addressed him.

"How long will they keep us waiting?" She demanded.

He smiled, she might be a ruthless killer, but she was out of her depth here. "Just long enough to keep us uncomfortable, all that pomp and ceremony takes time, if you've evah' visited monarchies before, you'd have learned, no way to rush royalty. So, is this trip worth it?"

She nodded thoughtfully. "Yes. That wass the 1st Airborne they had escorting us, impressive, but not necessarily an indicator of their entire forces. I also spotted two other delegations on the other tarmacs, Tartarus and Knootos, very influential. I'm sure that there were more, for this trip to be 'worth' it, we need to mingle at the party."

Doc rolled the idea around in his mind, he then took another gulp of brandy. "Well... I reckon that as long as they keep the drinks flowing-"

"No drinks. You can sip at their champange, but you will not be drunk." She pulled out a bottle of pills from one of the many concealed pockets. "Either by your choice...or mine, the science department has made quite some strides in these past few years, risk of major damage to organs is down to 8% now."

Doc cursed inwardly, bloody, coldhearted, ruthless, little spook.... Dealing with both royalty and spooks, he felt like he had been placed between a rock and a hard place, no, a meat grinder and a bunch of inbred rabbit teeth. Well...at least the brandy was good.

First International Airport,
Capital City of Vigvar,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

***

Windmill builders.

The place was swarming with activity. At one gate, the Knootian delegation was greeted by mainly those diplomats present during the signature of the KRS-ONE treaty. Those that were present during the negotiations that ended the Shadow War were absent. Better bring up good memories than bad ones.

- Prime Minister Lousewies, it is a pleasure to see that you have honoured us with your presence. Pray, we will guide you to the craft that will take you to the Sacred Citadel.

The Knootian delegation went through two rows of 1st Airborne officers, standing in salute, wearing their parade uniforms, and was guided to a luxurious aircraft. Not really big, just enough to accommodate the entire delegation.

The Knootians nodded friendly to the officers standing salute and they got into the plane. Lousewies nestled in the seat, and waited for the craft to take off while chatting with the Taraskovian diplomats.

(OOC: well... waiting to be taken to the coronation itself, I suppose.)

ooc: don't forget me!! and can we have a kind of general update about where we all are at the moment...
as i see it

my ship landed
my guy was sent by plane to
here where he is just landing

if this is correct, im gonna do a small post now
ic:

Albrecht jumped slightly in his chair as the plain touched down, he had been watching the city gradually fall toward him over the last 20 minutes, his thoughts swam

look at it.... like a cancer on the forrest that surrounds it

he wondered why he had ever agreed to come on this mission in person, he could have sent anyone, after all he had packed several under qualified people off on ‘diplomatic’ missions before
one of them had a stutter so bad it had taken him 3 minutes to accept the mission brief, not that he had much of a choice,

the plane taxied towards its final destination, Albrecht dusted away the crumbs from the modest (by tarran standards) lunch he had taken,

i don't have the faintest clue where we are, oh dear...

ooc: don't forget me!! and can we have a kind of general update about where we all are at the moment...
as i see it

my ship landed
my guy was sent by plane to
here where he is just landing

if this is correct, im gonna do a small post now

OOC: Actually, I prefered to wait for all of the active guests to post their arrival. But well. Guess time to move on.

I will add an IC post to here as soon as I finish spell checking it and correcting it a little :wink: Will be a rather big one...

The Aircraft take of and, they are each joined by two fighter aerodynes of the Elite 7th Air Wing - the so called 'Sky Pride of the Duchy' - and swiftly carry the guests and their TDFA 'greeters' to the Sacred Citadel of Zynthris, where the final preparations for the ceremony, to take place at dawn, are already being made...

On their way, they over fly the Capital City of Vigvar, each one of them following a different route and at different time, for security reasons, of course. The huge city below is illuminated by numerous lights in this calm evening. First, the delegations over fly the so-called ‘Skyscraper’ district bordering Vigvar. The tall buildings, going as far as 1km high, connected by numerous connection platforms, glow in the evening, illuminating the crowds of people gathering on the platforms. If the aircraft flew lower, sounds of laughter, horns and arguments about who will drink the most vodka overnight could be heard.

The ‘Scyscraper’ District, which surrounds entirely the city(except for the ‘water’ side, of course), is located in a large plain below the Capital City itself. As the aircraft fly past high slopes, covered with forests(“No, no, these are completely natural. We do not replace everything with ECTOS based growths, if you see” – a diplomat to one of the foreign guests answering their question on the subject) and finally over fly the gigantic plateau, situated 200 meters above sea level. The aircraft enter the airspace of the so called ‘Memorial Distric’ of Vigvar. Indeed, rare are buildings which go higher than 20 floors. In place of connection platforms, there are streets and squares, and everything a normal city has. Even the crowds, already celebrating in advance. The Taraskovyans don’t really need that much of a reason to throw in a party, so what to say about a coronation? The celebrations were already going on even if the ceremony has not happened yet.

The aircraft over fly the giant complex of the Vigvar Winter palace, surrounded by magnificent parks, which include small artificial lakes, waterfalls and even forests. In one of the open giant courts, numerous soldiers, in blue armors, are standing in formation, facing another formation of as many people. During the night of the coronation, there is no Grand Duke and so the Grand Ducal family has to leave to palace until a new Grand Duke rises to the throne. And of course, the Alexander Guard Honorary Regiment would also leave the palace overnight, to give the ‘Oath of Loyalty’ to the new Grand Duke at the citadel. During the absence, a random regiment of the Taraskovyan military will guard the palace. This time, the honor fell on the 10th TND NGF Division. The soldiers were going through a ceremonial ‘exchange of duties’. Battalion after battalion, the guard was leaving for the citadel. The first one to leave was the 3rd “Glory and Courage” battalion, which was seen loading into drop ships and taking off. Of course, the foreign guests, even if they looked through the windows of their aircraft, did not see the entire scene, but just glimpses of it. And if someone of them was rather attentive, he could spot a rather comic scene going on in one of the alleys. A cat was running through the park, followed by a very enthralled dog. After the dog ran a young female, in a what only seconds ago was a magnificent silk robe (now it was all covered in grass and tore apart when the person most surely braved some bushes). Behind the female person was running a man in the battle armor of a lieutenant of the 1st “Silence and Death” Battalion. Even if he was wearing a cloak, the fabric of his cloak did not seem to have taken any damage from the running. Finally, the young woman just tore off the bottom of her robe and in one very twisted jump grabbed the cat in her arms and faced the dog. The Guard did a nearly the same maneuver and soon he was holding the dog tightly…
Somewhere, a captain of the 1st “Silence and Death” Battalion was wondering where the hell did Lt. Nekshas go just five minutes before take off. In a luxurious VTOL aircraft waiting for take off, the pilot was getting nervous and contacting the Palace staff on the subject of the current location of Archduchess Vethara.

The aircraft carrying the delegations then flew out in the open sea. The Sea of Million tears. A legend told that thousands of years ago, the Goddess Kethala was so sad seeing two armies that would soon march on one an other, opposed in yet an other civil war, that she cried bitterly and her tears filled the empty spot between the two armies and created the sea, thus preventing the bloodshed. The scientific explanation is, of course, wholly different, but the people called it the ‘Sea of Million Tears’ and so the topographic committee only shrugged and wrote it that way.

It doesn’t take overly long to cross the water mass, only an hour or so and soon the aircraft entered Cardinian airspace. The flew over cities and towns, nested in the valleys of tall mountains and finally flew over a giant plain, on which stood a gigantic structure, surrounded by many smaller structures.

http://www.digikitten.com/playhousev2/files/Mishgan/citadel_of_Zynthris1.jpg

- The structure dominating the landscape is the Sacred Citadel of Zynthris. And all around is the city where the most devout followers of the Seven Deities live and work.

The diplomats were giving the briefing about the location to the delegates. The aircraft carrying the guests headed right towards the top of the Citadel. The aircraft being VTOL, they already had their landing spots cleared. All around the citadel there were crowds of people. A long and wide stairway went from the top to the bottom. On both sides of it were people… and many of them. The lower half was full of military personnel, in parade uniform, officers and soldiers standing side by side, shoulder to shoulder. The military was the first barrier between the people and the enemy. The higher half was full of citizens, of all age and titles, nobility and citizenry, old and young, standing(or sitting – the civilians had this luxury, the military didn’t), waiting…

And at the base of the stair was standing a lonely person, in parade uniform. At a respectable distance away from him stood people. Lots of them. Crowds. The whole plain was full of people. There were no guards around the Grand Duke, only a unit of policemen circling the perimeter. The future Grand Duke had to trust his people and the people had to trust their future leader. Otherwise, the reign would be… not very much successful. Of course, nobody had to know that Elite snipers in the citadel had the Heir secured, that military and police aircraft were constantly ready to intervene. And not only attack gunships and such sort – there were several small drop ships, enough to carry an elite intervention squad.

The Aircraft carrying the delegates swiftly touched down on their landing platforms and the dignitaries were guided through majestic and highly decorated corridors. Through out the corridors, engraved walls showed the exploits of the members of the Order and of the Taraskovyan people, dating from thousands of years ago. Saints, martyrs, heroes, all were there. Tapestries depicting battles of old. On all of them, the warriors were clad in full armor or had a mask… the armor was of deep-dark-blue color. No faces were seen. Finally, the dignitaries arrived into a gigantic hall, richly furnished, with food and drinks in abundance. Tapestries all around them depicted different scenes from the Taraskovyan history. Numerous ancient tapestries were decorating the room.

On one of them, a drow warrior, clad in armor was facing the viewer. With his sword, held in the right hand, he was pointing at someone in front of him, in fact – at the viewer. With his left arm, he was shielding a drow child behind him. There was some text in runes, encrypted all over the tapestry.

On an other one, a drow woman, in light armor, was impaling with her spear an enemy warrior. She was holding the spear with her left hand, while in half-spin she was piercing another enemy with her dagger. The woman was seen in profile.

On a third one, a drow woman, in modest clothing, facing the viewer, was holding with her left hand several scrolls, while with the right hand, palm facing the viewer, was held out in trust. The woman was smiling.

A fourth one had on it a drow man, in rich clothing, seen in profile. He was depicted as buying something from a woman in from him.

On a tapestry in an other corner, a drow man in light armor was standing on his knees, his sword in front of him, face directed to the sky.

On yet an other tapestry, a woman in modest clothing was kneeling besides a man lying on the ground. Her face was showing a lot of grief and compassion and she seemed to be telling the man something very important.

On an other one, a drow man, looking entirely like the one on the tapestry with the warrior defending a child, wearing a robe, was kneeling besides a wounded soldier, applying something to his wound.

Of course, these were just seven of the numerous tapestries in the hall. They each depicted one of those Seven during some action. And of course, there was text on each of them. The ‘drawings’ on the fabric were very finely done and one could see the smallest detail in the outfit of the persons, the smallest shadow on their faces.

Dominating above all, occupying an entire wall, was a magnificent tapestry depicting a large battle. In the middle – thousands of warriors were marching on a mighty citadel, completely made of black stone. All around it, were different scenes of the battle, including an overview of the citadel, which reminded an opened hand, with walls and bastions acting as outstretched fingers.
In the battle, a man could be seen. He was not ‘done’ in a very special way, but the one who made the tapestry wanted the viewer to notice him and to look at that man. It was a drow, rather young, his silver hair falling on his shoulders, his deep dark-blue armor shining in a special way. The man was caught in the middle of the battle, but yet above him was a spot, where the master wrote, in runes, several words…

A principal councilor of the TDFA then turned to the guests and spoke.

- What you see here is the dearest secret of the Grand Duchy, hidden during centuries from the outsiders. The Heir wanted his guests to see it, to know it. And so we all obeyed. If you require any information on a particular tapestry, please inquire to the diplomatic personnel, they will tell you everything there is to tell. The ceremony will begin shortly.


He motioned towards a wall and it slid open, revealing a large balcony, giving a view on the long stairs and the crowds below. The balcony was around 40 meters above the end of the stairs, a large platform on which stood seven persons. 3 men and 4 women, each clothed in a different way, ranging from armor to robes. Among them, stood the now former Grand Duke of Tarasovka, Mikhail Shakhovskoy Ist…
The ceremony would begin shortly…

[OOC: Okey, some things may seem incomplete. They are, to allow some RP opportunities. If you want to take those opportunities – go ahead. If not, well, I guess your delegations will just chat with each other. ;)
A little comic situation added so that you don't fall asleep over reading the entire thing.]

Albrecht glanced at the tapestry, he was not much of a man for art though its scale impressed him. he moved out towards the balcony as soon as the wall was opened his cloak followed him with a perfect lethargy, as if it was being dragged through oil,
He was glad of some fresh air, and a clear view to the sky, it did not strike him that he may have just committed a pretty major feux-pas.
he spoke in a near wiser

“like Bifrost on a clear day during one of the concerts...”

he let his eyes close slightly and imagined himself standing on the main balcony at Bifrost, overlooking the artificial forrest built on a platform half way up Yagdrassil. he wished he could be back there now. these foreign places made him uneasy.

he turned about and returned to the hall, glancing at the other delegates, questioning eyes for the non human ones, and a slight nervousness for the others.

---------------------------------------
Sacred Citadel of Zynthris
---------------------------------------

Lousewies walked into the grand hall, totally amazed and intrigued…

Contrary to Albrecht of CairnTarra, Lousewies was of a cultured and inquisitive people. And the tapestry intrigued her. Little was known in Knootoss of Taraskovian mystique and religion and this seemed like a very important place. The saced citadel was imposing enough on it’s own from the outside… Probably larger then any Knootian structure ever built, not counting the polders, the Prime Minister of Knootoss concluded.

The blonde-haired woman walked around a bit, trying to get a good view of what was happening and of the lay-out of the building. She noticed that several of the security personell were keeping an eye on her. Well, it’s their job, she figured. But still, she always felt slightly uncomfortable being watched. “Perhaps this is the time to find out more about their history… ”

She gathered courage and approached the local diplomat who was guiding them. The Prime Minister vaguely remembered him as being part of the negotiating team for the treaty but did not recall a name.

“Excuse me,” she asked, “but what do these tapestries depict?”

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Sisgardia.

Count Kiril Nemtath, the diplomat which Lousewies approached, bowed to the Prime Minister and spoke with a smile.

- Of course, Your Excellency. Do wish to inquire into the contect of all of the tapestries present in this hall or does a particular one spark your interest?

Outside, several police UPAC flew a couple dozens meters away from the balcony, followed by a military attack aerodyne, which was itself followed by a rather small but very finely made aircraft, with the banner of the Grand Ducal family on it. The entire convoy was itself closed off by two other military attack aerodynes. Needless to say the military aerodynes beared the insignia of the Elite 7th Air Wing.
The escorted ship landed at a platform somewhere out of sight of the delegates. The TDFA diplomats quickly exchanged short phrases, after which two of the men left the hall(excusing themselves, of course) and proceeded through one of the corridors.
Kiril watched them leave and returned his gaze to the Prime Minister.

- It would seem that the now Honor Grand Duchess has arrived and I would go as far as affirm that the youngest Archduchess is with her...
Well, let us return to our tapestries, shall we?

S.H.O.D.A.N. stands and listens quietly, looking over the tapestries with a curious eye. I've always liked history, honestly. Ruffling Nathi's red cape around her, she smiles. I need to borrow things from Sis more often. This is nice for a change.

==================
Sacred Citadel of Zynthris.
==================

Prometheus-002 felt… uncomfortable. It was the animal body ofcourse, but he didn’t care for the sensation at all. When his transport had flown over the ‘skyscraper’ district he had experienced jealously. Buildings taller than anything the NEXT could make, the knowledge and resources required for such projects had to be staggering… Not to mention far more interesting than the art that some of the other delegates were now examining.

Still, he might as follow the others and possibly get to know some of the other delegates. Afterall, it never hurts to create an positive view of his people amongst these lesser ones.
Walking calmly forward towards a few of the other delegates as his gaze slowly moved over each tapestry, the sound of his boots on the floor barely noticeable due to the far heavier sound of the Cybrid that walked beside him.
Despite his attempts, Prometheus-002 could not find any of the tapestries to be pulling his attention like they were supposed too.

‘Typical animal mythology. devotion, love, honor, vengeance and other meaningless concepts. The same in a thousand cultures across this globe. One would think they eventually wo… That one is acceptably different.”

Looking at the ‘central’ tapestry that depicted the large war scene, Prometheus-002 stared at the Drow in the middle of the battle. “This one is no where else.” Cocking his head slightly to the side the jade beads in his hair ticking softly against his forehead, Prometheus stared somewhat curiously at the tapestry. A person who almost seems more important than the other seven characters, yet this is the only spot where he was apparently shown.

Turning around slightly he looked for one of the personnel that was there to provide them with information if they so wanted. Seeing one only two steps away, Prometheus-002 smiled broadly and spoke to the man.

“Excuse me, sir. Perhaps you would be willing to tell me who this central figure is. I do not see him anywhere else on these tapestries of yours.”

As Prometheus-002 had spoken to the staff member, his bodyguard turned it’s head to stare at the man, and though it had no eyes or visible holes for camera’s it was clear it watched intently to see what happened.

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Sisgardia.

The diplomat summoned by Prometheus came towards him and started explaining, smiling.

- This is supposed to be the Legendary Shokath-Kshas, Uidath of the Emerald Spire, as the runes above the personage say.
Around twenty to thirty thousand years ago, this man is presumed to have reunited all of the Taraskath people under his rule, the first one to do so and created the Namel Zethani Taraskath, or the Mighty Lordship of Taraskath.
The scene here depicts the presumed Last Battle of Reunification, which happened at the defacto capital of the Taraskath people during those times. The Citadel of the Black Hand, as it was called, used the be the center of trade and cultural activity and very, very well defended. Certain legends dictate different manners on how Uidath proceeded to conquer the citadel after months of unsuccessfull siege.
Some say that the gods themselves helped him, others claim that he used an assassin to kill the Lord and Ruler of the citadel and then stormed in and slayed the demoralised enemy warriors.
Whatever the outcome, the location of the Citadel still remains a mystery, for no ruins nor foundations have been ever found.
We do not even know if Uidath was the name of a person or just meant 'Leader' in one of the numerous dialects of those times.

This hall is called the "Glory of Gods". So I presume Uidath of the Emerald Spire fought for the glory of the gods and reunited the divided people...
But this is not really the only place where you see him. Pray, follow me.

The diplomat led Prometheus towards one of the walls. On one of the tapestries there, a man fully clad in armor was receiving a sword from the seven other persons shown in the room. His face was not seen.

- The priests of the Order say that this was the moment when the Seven Deities called the first Supreme Lord and Ruler, or Shokath-Kshas, to their domain and he gave the 'Oath of Faith', after which he received the Sword of the Gods and the right to Lordship over the People. It is not clear if the person standing on the knees here is Uidath himself, but since he is presumed to have been the first leader of a unified people, it is presumed to be him...

Interesting. Very interesting, indeed. Aramaki watched the tapestries with considerable interest. Being a history fan of some sort, he wondered what role the drow played in the history of the grand duchy.

He hadn`t been overly impressed by the flight to the sacred citadel, since Angstian Architecture was somewhat... larger than Taraskovyan architecture (Although he had to admit that the Taraskovian architecture was far more tasteful than the ugly blocks his own engineers created), but this... this tapestries were sorta... interesting, and most definitely of the highest quality.

Still, he decided not to ask about them, since asking was something he rarely did.

Sakurai stood on his side, intrigued by the battle szenes. She was a huge 'fan' of the matriarchy drow culture, and it was obvious that she was fairly... fascinated by the battleszenes.

"A question..." she asked a Taraskovian nearby. "The drow here... i doubt thats a coincidence... which role did they play in the history of the Grand Duchy?"

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Sisgardia.

Count Kiril Nemtath, the diplomat which Lousewies approached, bowed to the Prime Minister and spoke with a smile.

- Of course, Your Excellency. Do wish to inquire into the contect of all of the tapestries present in this hall or does a particular one spark your interest?

Outside, several police UPAC flew a couple dozens meters away from the balcony, followed by a military attack aerodyne, which was itself followed by a rather small but very finely made aircraft, with the banner of the Grand Ducal family on it. The entire convoy was itself closed off by two other military attack aerodynes. Needless to say the military aerodynes beared the insignia of the Elite 7th Air Wing.
The escorted ship landed at a platform somewhere out of sight of the delegates. The TDFA diplomats quickly exchanged short phrases, after which two of the men left the hall(excusing themselves, of course) and proceeded through one of the corridors.
Kiril watched them leave and returned his gaze to the Prime Minister.

- It would seem that the now Honor Grand Duchess has arrived and I would go as far as affirm that the youngest Archduchess is with her...
Well, let us return to our tapestries, shall we?

Lousewies nods, in gratitude, "I was actually wondering how all the tapestries connect. Is it a history of some kind?"

Treznor sighs and cools his heels patiently as they're given the nickel tour. Then he realises this isn't the nickel tour, the Heir clearly intends to demonstrate something to his guests. Legitimacy? Legacy? A warning? Perhaps all of the above, or something else entirely. He studies the tapestries, coming at last to the battle scene.

"Your pardon," he says to the diplomat assigned to his group. "The tapestry here, with the young fellow shown in battle? Who is he, and what does the writing say?"

Albrecht was feeling the cold of the balcony, so he returned to the main hall, his attention was finally drawn to the crowd of people standing looking at the central painting talking among themselves, such bloodshed, he mumbled one of the old litanies

“Tá níl onóir sa cath ann”

he was egar to get back, or at least get a message to Yagdrassil, maybey even make some friends... but he was here to observe, gage the other peoples in sisguardia, with his own eyes, and not through some liberal nut bar’s diplomatic report. For a moment he wondered what things would be like if the situation was reversed, if they were the guests in Yagameed, or even Ehbrus’nord, watching one of the grand rites,
it made his skin crawl...

Semir and Rialla had exchanged confused glances when they had flown over first the city, then at the sight of the Citadel. The reason for their confusion was-

"Excuse me," Rialla asked the nearest person who looked capable of answering her question, once on the ground, "and, no offense intended by the question... but why do you build your buildings so damned tall?" She looks utterly bemused by the practice.

Semir looks slightly less bemused, but he pipes up, "We don't allow any buildings taller than two stories in the Empire, you see. We're not quite sure why others tend to build so much... bigger above the surface. If a building needs to be larger, we burrow. It's safer that way. It acts as a kind of foundation for the building above ground, an anchor, and there's always more space underground than there is above ground anyway... so even I must admit being at something of a loss. Do you build underground as well? Or do you build so high due to overcrowding?" There is no disdain in his words; merely curiousity.

In the great hall of the citadel, Delendre and his son wandered around, looking at the fantastic architecture and art that the structure contained. Both men were happy that they would not have to worry about the affairs of the Corporation for a few days, just as they both were looking forward to the ceremonies. During the voyage to the citadel, Delendre had told his offspring what the gift from the Corporation for the new Duke would be. After a moment of thought, Meher had agreed that it would indeed be a very adequate sign of friendship and appreciation, as well as hope for a bright future.

Standing at the foot of a huge pillar, both men looked at the diplomats and representatives from different countries. One of the persons they saw was Lousewies, the Knootian politician. Grabbing his son by the shoulder, Delendre nodded in her direction.

"Look...that woman will probably run for prime minister in Knootoss. We have evaluated her competitors just before I left fot the Grand Duchy, and she seems to be the best choice...from a corporate perspective. The other popular candidate is an elvish woman, and if she wins the elections, we fear that a lot of our trade benefits in Knootoss will also be granted to states such as Menelmacar. We could lose quite a bit on such an event, and now we're preparing to pump millions into the campaign of that lady over there. Tell me, what do you think of her on first sight?"

As Meher gives his answer, a group of Taraskovyan guards passes by, making it impossible for bystanders to hear his answer.

D'ron and Lesley, hearing Emperor Treznor's question about the battle scene, edged closer, awaiting the answer.

D'ron was a part time student of military history, as were many former military people in the Federation. And Lesley smiled resignedly, from his arm, as D'ron skillfully edged through the crowd, towing her behind.

And the truth was, she was interested too. Sorta. But she did have to suppress the urge to reach out and touch the tapestries, as they're age seemed to be older than time itself, even.

But still, they spoke not. In fact, the only words they had spoken had come from D'ron on the aircraft.

And that answer had been incomplete at best. Ah well, sometimes surprises were better than foreknowledge.

Nathicana seems to enjoy everything about the trip, from the flight, to the scenery, and the tour. She studies the tapestries with a practised eye, noting and commenting quietly on the workmanship in her native language to both Treznor and Shodey. Her eyes are alight with both appreciation for the artistry, and in many cases, the subject matter. One hand idly wanders across the intricate neckpiece that acompanies the borrowed cloak, not for the last time appreciating the craftsmanship and beauty of it. As always, impeccable taste, mia sorella.

She takes note of those around her, nodding and smiling in quiet greeting when appropriate, taking in their bearing, expressions, and when her augmented ears are able, any conversation she can. At the queries, she looks to their hosts expectantly, quietly waiting for further explanation.

Why is it I keep feeling there is much more here than meets the eye?

Following the diplomat toward the wall that displayed the tapestry of the seven deities and the Shokath-Kshas, Prometheus-002 stayed respectfully silent as the diplomat spoke. Listening intendly and quite literally storing everything away for further examination later when he would return to Caucascus.

“So this, Uidath was your first Alfa. Interesting... And no ruins found of the Citadel? Perhaps he had ordered the Citadel dismantled and used the resources to build a new city? Many effient leaders find it helps to maintain control by removing the memories of things before.”

A single eyebrow raises up with curiousity to see what the diplomat would say in return. From what he knew of animals they were often unwilling to accept such potential thoughts of loss if what they sought was in their eyes important.

[OOC:

First of all, al those who posted here - thank you for posting.

I still have guests who promised to post and who didn't and I gave them an opportunity to do so. But since its 3.30 AM in Geneva right now and I am off to rest, recharging my batteries for the New Year celebrations which are to come soon, I will leave those particular guests a last chance tomorrow to 'arrive'.

After that, by night time CET, I'll surely either post a series of answers to the questions asked so that I can boost my post count, or put it all into one huge giant post to drive the readers crazy over the length. :wink:
The post(or series of posts) will include the beginning of the rather long ceremony, so all guests who arrive after it will, as it is obvious, be a tad late. The new Grand Duke will make personal conclusions out of that and it should be noted that it is he, who decides on most of the GDT domestic and foreign policy.

Why post this post? Simple - so that none of you guys take my 'not-posting' for disrespectful behaviour from my diplomatic staff.

Thank you again for reading through my rambling. :roll:

Oh, don't know if I mentioned - there are comfortable armschairs and sofas in the hall where you are right now. Just a little important precision for your ar-... euh... for your most gracious persons :? ]

The ride over proven uneventful given the wonders that they had been shown already. Once they entered the great hall Doc Bolivar immediately appropriated one of the sofas and glared pointedly at the diplomatic escort assigned to them.

"Now, ya can't tell me that they ain't compensatin' for sumthin!" He muttered to Selkos, who rolled her eyes and began to wander off to mingle.

While Doc Bolivar continued to glare, she approached the tapestries. Just as well he's sitting, he might have used these tapestries as a napkin She thought. She slowly scanned the other guests, and searched for possible sources of information, but most were still quite caught up with the architecture. She sighed and moved back a bit, before taking out a notebook and beginning to sketch the scene...and take notes of the fellow delegates in code.

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Sisgardia.

Most ‘Dear’ Guests and the Windmill builders

The diplomat summoned by Aramaki answered promptly. Count Nemtath led Lousewies towards his collegue and stood listening. It was clear, that he was much higher in hierarchy that the young diplomat answering the questions of Aramaki, and thus deemed it necessary not to intervene unless there was a real need to.

- These are the depictions of the Seven Deities themselves, who the Order of the Seven worships.
The man clad into armor and wielding a sword is Zynthris, the Lord Creator of All Life, Eternal Defender and Guardian of Life. He was the one who shaped the first mortals, our ancestors. At least, by the teachings of the order. As you can see, he is often depicted as defending a child. Indeed, children in Taraskovyan beliefs and mythology symbolize life, the continuity of the kin, the essence itself of the future. Zynthris is the head of the Seven Deities and thus the Eternal Lord of All Kin.

Now let us move on. The woman depicted here is Nethaila, the Goddess of Wisdom and Knowledge. As you can see, she is holding several scrolls with one of her hands, while inviting the viewer to acquire knowledge, with the other one. This is the main symbolic of most of her depictions. Although the symbolism of Nethaila often is mistaken with the one of Atagath, the Younger Twin of Zynthris. Atagath is depicted on this tapestry you have seen already, depicting him healing a man with herbs. It is suggested that long ago, our ancestors wielded some powerful magic, knowledge that we must surely have lost, and thus it is implied that healing with herbs was very rare, for the same result could be attained with a spell. Atagath is thus the God-Defender of People, God of Science and Progress. Whilst Nethaila is the goddess of Wisdom and mostly what you may call ‘humanitarian’ and ‘philosophic’ Knowledge, Atagath’s knowledge comes in arithmetic, physics and other sciences. It is not rare for him to be depicted with some machinery in the background. Although there were no archeological findings of any machine depicted on the tapestries.

Now you must surely have seen some resemblances between the titles of the Godly Brothers Zynthris and Atagath. It is thus suggested that Zynthris used his power to defend the people, while Atagath tried to resolve everything peacefully.

But when words failed, came the hour of glory of the Goddess of Blood, Sathala, the Goddess of War and Eternal Sovereign of the Realms of the Fallen. You must have surely already guessed that this is the lady depicted in the battle scenes and also in the tapestries which symbolize the Realms of the Fallen.

The diplomat guided Aramaki and followed by Kiril and Lousewies to a tapestry. It was divided into two parts: on the bottom was a grim dark underground hall, with shadows passing through it, faceless. On the top was a wholly different scene – a large and well lit hall, with many tables in it and many men and women sitting by those tables. They were feasting on abundant food. In the head of one of the tables, sat a woman in light armor, the same as depicted on the scene where she kills two enemy warriors. Behind Sathala were two windows and bright light was shining through it.

- As you guess, the lower part is what would be hell. There are no ‘tortures’, as in the Christian depiction of hell, for example. In fact, the souls of the unworthy are doomed to remain faceless and blind towards each other. Meaning that they see through the dark corridors, hear the voices, but they see no other soul. Indeed, that would be a grave torture… Sathala is always seen with a spear and a dagger, sometimes with a bow. She wields no sword. It is suggested that a bow or a spear are used to kill enemies from a rather safe distance, while the dagger is used as the last resolve weapon for defense. Sathala thus covers the two main currents of warfare: assault and defense.

But enough of war and blood, please follow me up to this tapestry.

The diplomat led the already named persons, as well as all people who desired to listen to them, to the tapestry on which a woman was telling something to a weak man lying on the ground.

- This woman is Kethala, the Goddess of Peace, Love, Generosity and Hope. The symbolism of this depiction could have various meanings. Some say that she is reassuring the weak man that he will get better, some say that she is trying to make him leave for the Realms of Sathala in tranquility and assurance that all is well. Indeed, the symbolism of this Goddess is always vague.

Please, follow me.

Yet again the party is changing the place of its dislocation and moves towards a tapestry on which Kethala is facing the viewer. The master has finely shown her face. Indeed, it may both appear that she is sad or that she is happy, but not the both at the same time. She is holding her arms stretched in front of her, her hands brought together, palms forming a cup with crystal clear water in them.

- This is how the Goddess is most often represented. And yet again, the symbolism may differ from person to person. For some, she is holding out some water for those thirsty to calm their thirst. Some say that those are tears of sadness. Some even argue that this is some sort of a crystal or a gem that she hands out to the poor. But even if the understanding of her depictions may vary, every single person understands immediately what Goddess Kethala is.

Now, let us move on to the depictions of the last two of the Seven.

The group proceeded towards yet an other tapestry. Kiril only sighed. If things kept going on in the current pace, the TDFA would soon be giving tourist tours for visitors in museums and elsewhere. He could not understand why did the servants of the Order refuse to cater for the guests by themselves and fled the halls through which foreigners would pass. Indeed, he has not yet met one single Order priest, or guard, or disciple… Meanwhile, the young diplomat was showing off his knowledge at a tapestry depicting a drow in light armor, standing on his knees, sword in front of him, face turned to the sky.

- This is Nahashir, the God of Justice and Faith. He is often depicted in such a pose, symbolizing the calm character of this God, who needs all his impartiality and absence of emotions to be able to bring justice among the mortals. This must most surely be a meditation position. Nahashir is also often depicted as settling quarrels between mortals. On rare tapestries, he is seen along with Zynthris and Sathala fighting against foes.

And on this tapestry here is no one else but Amathir, the God of Commerce, Trade, Leisure, Crafts, etc. Maybe the god who has the most ‘responsibilities’ among the Seven. And the one who has the most depictions. Either shown forging a tool for peasants to work with or trading with mortals or as drinking alcoholic drinks during festivities. It is to be noted, that each god has several Celestial Councilors to aid them in their tasks. And all of us know how hard the divine tasks may be sometimes…

The diplomat grinned, expecting any further questions. Kiril made a deep sigh and shrugged to Lousewies, with all his allure giving a clear indication, that if the Prime Minister had any questions, the TDFA would answer them within the limits of current possibilities and fixed regulations.

OOC: Other posts to come up later.

Spike wanders around the hangar, impressed with its clenliness. He is soon greeted by what looks like representatives from GDT.

"Please come with us, the others have already been shuttled in."

"Uh, ok. Where are we going?" Said Spike, in his usual trusting manor.

"To the ceremony. It's being held away from here, but there's a shuttle waiting for you. The coronation's already begun, please be quick."

Not wanting to miss any more of the ceremony than he already had, Spike hurridly followed the ground crew to a waiting shuttle.

"This is a bit big for just me... isn't it?" Spike pondered.

"Well yes, but that's because some delegations are larger than others. Since it's just yourself from NWA, the shuttle probably would seem rather large."

(edited to make sense...)

Aweful friendly, aren't they...

Spike went on to the shuttle and was flown to where the ceremony was being held. Unfortunately, having missed most of the introduction he had no clue what was going on.

Spike wanders around the hangar, impressed with its clenliness. He is soon greeted by what looks like representatives from GDT.

"Please come with us, the others have already been shuttled in."

"Uh, ok. Where are we going?" Said Spike, in his usual trusting manor.

"To the ceremony. It's being held away from here, but there's a shuttle waiting for you. The coronation's already begun, please be quick."

Not wanting to miss any more of the ceremony than he already had, Spike hurridly followed the ground crew to a waiting shuttle.

"This is a bit big for just me... isn't it?" Spike pondered.

"Well originally it carried quite a few guests, yes... but you're one of the last to arrive, so it's making special trips now."

Aweful friendly, aren't they...

Spike went on to the shuttle and was flown to where the ceremony was being held. Unfortunately, having missed most of the introduction he had no clue what was going on.

OOC: You didn't get something.

Every delegation had its own aircraft to take them to the Citadel. Which means that all listed in the list had a shuttle waiting for them. So no shuttle makes an 'extra-trip'. Using the same shuttle over and over for high ranked foreign delegations during the same day is a sign of disrespect! :x

So all in all, there are shuttles that won't take off since their guests never arrived.
:roll:

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Sisgardia.

The Terrible Sisters and the Terrible Brother.

The diplomat summoned by Treznor answered promptly, with a smile on his face. Treznor has just missed on of his collegues explaining the meaning to Prometheus 002, and so he had to go over it once again.

- This man supposed to be the Legendary Shokath-Kshas, Uidath of the Emerald Spire, as the runes above the personage say.
Around twenty to thirty thousand years ago, this man is presumed to have reunited all of the Taraskath people under his rule, the first one to do so and created the Namel Zethani Taraskath, or the Mighty Lordship of Taraskath.
The scene here depicts the presumed Last Battle of Reunification, which happened at the defacto capital of the Taraskath people during those times. The Citadel of the Black Hand, as it was called, used to be the center of trade and cultural activity and as such very, very well defended. Certain legends dictate different manners on how Uidath proceeded to conquer the citadel after months of unsuccessful siege.
Some say that the gods themselves helped him, others claim that he used an assassin to kill the Lord and Ruler of the citadel and then stormed in and slayed the demoralized enemy warriors.
Whatever the outcome, the location of the Citadel still remains a mystery, for no ruins or foundations have been ever found.
We do not even know if Uidath was the name of a person or just meant 'Leader' in one of the numerous dialects of those times.

***

The Modest Mighty.

The diplomat who was asked the question by Rialla and Semir began explaining.

- We do not always build our buildings tall. If you are wondering about the Citadel, than it has a very special meaning to be tall, as you will most surely notice once the ceremony begins.
As of the cities… The Grand Duchy is a rather small nation; we do not have the space to build wide buildings. We cannot boast a huge territory but we can boast over 1 billion population. We do, of course, build underground cities. If you have noticed, when we over flew the Cardinian Spine, there were towns built in the valleys. These towns have underground and in-mountain extensions to provide housing for more people. We take appropriate measures whenever possible. As for the underground, we already have a population there. The Grand Duchy houses a rather vast Skaven minority that was initially brought here to be used as defense against any incoming subterranean assault. And they are still used as such, of course. All in all, we try to take appropriate measures to provide additional housing whenever possible and by what means possible. The subterranean part of the Vigvar Skyscraper Ring goes as deep as one kilometer into the depth of the Earth core, as example.

I hope that answers your question. If you require any in-depth information, I remain at your service.

***

The Metal Titan.

The diplomat only sighed and shrugged at Prometheus-022's question.

- All may be, all may be. He might have dismantled it to build a new city, but yet again, no archeological findings ever show the exact 'material' of which the Black Hand was rumoured to have been built in the ruins of other cities. But even if he would have had dismantled it, there would still be some foundations left, or some differences in the soil where the Citadel stood...
All we have as knowledge about the Citadel of the Black Hand are several tapestries and ancient scrolls. Some say it is but a myth, others spent their lives trying to find it. No one ever succeeded. Guess it is just not meant to be found.

Windmill builders in the Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,

The Knootian Prime Minister nodded back to Kiril – the diplomat – with a thankful expression on her face. She paused a second to let all of the information sink in while she gave another look at the last carpet featuring Amathir. The god of Economic Affairs, she idly thought. Then she turned back for a final, more philosophical question.

“I am fascinated by these tapestries. Really, they are very special considering all the symbolism attached to it. I am an enriched woman. The Goddess Nethaila would be pleased.” She smiled slightly at her small joke. “But what puzzles me is the role these deities fulfil in your society. Please pardon me for my sheer ignorance, but religion isn’t a very common thing in Knootoss and I only have some personal experience with Sirithilism, which swept through Knootoss a few years ago. (OOC: “we love the Elven Queen day”) Do you consider these gods to be historical figures or figures that actually exist? Or do they represent important values to you, like virtues of some sort?” She thinks for a very short moment, and then asks keenly: “or do they perhaps have a role like in the Roman Empire? Gods that can be pleased with offerings?”

She unconsciously shifts the weight of her body from one leg to the other, causing her hip to move as she looks at the Taraskovyan.

OOC:
* I noted Vortex’s post, but Lousewies obviously did not ;)*

Albrecht made a descision. he approached one of the aids standing near by with a simple question

"is there anywhere round here where i can send some transmissions back home, some buisness has just come to light which needs my immidiate attention"

The One Who Has My Soul.

Following the tour, Gehenna gazed at the indicated tapestries, listening to the conversations, as she took in the scenes before her eyes. She was suddenly reminded of the main hall in the Palace, strewn with old tapestries and paintings portraying the glory of the nation; the defeats and dark secrets carefully hidden well from view.

Standing near the Knootian delegate, she couldn’t help hearing the question concerning the Deities. Gehenna had always been oddly fascinated with religion, and other countries’ fascination with the worship of Gods. Some people would worship anything. Let a potato resemble the face of some religious icon and before you knew it, a million fanatics were queuing to see it.

She smiled at the thought as she moved slightly along, not moving too far out of earshot, as she interested in hearing the answer. She looked briefly at George, smiling, before casting her gaze around the other guests. Her eyes fell on several familiar faces, mentally making note to have a few words with them in the course of the proceedings.

Vigvar Spaceport...

A great vessel approached. A great ship, a ship of the Elves, cruising elegantly upon the winds, warping gravity to her pleasure to go wherever she would. Three hundred meters of shining galvorn, void-black and blood-red and sun-golden, sleek, deadly, and lined with weapons... and in shimmering luminescent golden tengwar, the Elven-script of old, lay the word Gilthoniel. Star-kindler. Gilthoniel set down gently on the dock set aside for her, with the slightest and most delicate touch; her helmsquende was skilled indeed.

A staircase descended from a forward section of the hull, extending groundwards. A door opened... down came soldiers, two of them, in shimmering golden armor... they carried rifles, and flags, blue-bordered white flags bearing a complex sigil of a solar disc, an eagle with outstretched wings, an olive wreath... and the daggerstar of the House of Fëanor. The two soldiers set the flags into little holders at the base of the stairs, and the banners snapped smartly in the breeze.

Next came a vision of beauty itself - an Elven woman, tall and fair, her long sun-golden hair and shimmering red robes blowing about her in the breeze. She looked about upon stepping onto the ground, for whomever might be here to greet her.

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/sirithil/sirithilnosfeanor.gifLady Sirithil nos Fëanor
Elentári of the Eternal Noldorin Empire of Menelmacar
"We have known freedom's price. We have shown freedom's power. We will see freedom's victory."
~US President George W. Bush
We Love the Iraqi Information Minister (http://www.welovetheiraqiinformationminister.com)
Clicky-clicky!

Vigvar International Aerospace Port,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

Her Most Gracious Siriness.

Not even a second passed sinc ethe moment the two elven soldiers touched the ground, that a squad of 1st Airborne officers, in their deep black parade uniform, took position on two sides of an already self-unrolling red carpet. The fabric stopped right in front of the staircase, a little droid popping out of it and quickly making his way away.

A group of TDFA diplomats approached the elven lady and bowed in a ceremonial salute manner.

- Your Highness, Lady Sirithil nos Fëanor, if I may presume? We have been expecting you. And we hope that your trip was pleasant.

He only then 'noted' the armed elven soldiers. As by the protocol - first welcome the guests, then go on with the 'details'.

- If I may also remind Your Highness that armed foreign personel is not allowed during the festivities. And if I also may indulge you to hand us any ceremonial cold weapon you may have, so that we may peace bondage it, you would grant us the greatest of all honours.

He put the warmest smile on his face.

"Of course," Lady Sirithil responded; she carefully removed her scabbard from her belt, containing her blade Dant'harthad, Hope's Descent, and hands it to the diplomat. "Do not worry about the soldiers; protocol, you see. They do this everywhere we land. They will return to the ship." She wore shimmering scarlet robes with trim of gold, covered in intricate embroidered patterns. The inner bit of the robe conformed beautifully to the curves of her statuesque form; the outer was more of a full length mantle, with slightly flared shoulders. Around her waist was a segmented belt of pure mithril. Upon her brow was a fine circlet, intricate and beset with gems, the centerpiece of which was a great ruby carved in the shape of the Fëanor daggerstar, which glowed with an inner fire.

Two more individuals descended the staircase. One was a tall - seven feet - dark-haired elf with a dour expression, clad in fine clothing, but mostly in black; his hands were covered in leather gloves, and in one fist was clenched an intricate golden staff, taller even than he. The other was a young human woman in an Elven-made gown, royal blue with intricate silver filigree patterns. She was unarmed.

"This is Herufiriëmmolië, my aide, and this is Natalya Vitalievna Vyazemskaya, who accompanies me on behalf of William Xylon Eldandil of Diablo_NL."

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/sirithil/sirithilnosfeanor.gifLady Sirithil nos Fëanor
Elentári of the Eternal Noldorin Empire of Menelmacar
"We have known freedom's price. We have shown freedom's power. We will see freedom's victory."
~US President George W. Bush
We Love the Iraqi Information Minister (http://www.welovetheiraqiinformationminister.com)
Clicky-clicky!

Windmill builders in the Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,

The Knootian Prime Minister nodded back to Kiril – the diplomat – with a thankful expression on her face. She paused a second to let all of the information sink in while she gave another look at the last carpet featuring Amathir. The god of Economic Affairs, she idly thought. Then she turned back for a final, more philosophical question.

“I am fascinated by these tapestries. Really, they are very special considering all the symbolism attached to it. I am an enriched woman. The Goddess Nethaila would be pleased.” She smiled slightly at her small joke. “But what puzzles me is the role these deities fulfil in your society. Please pardon me for my sheer ignorance, but religion isn’t a very common thing in Knootoss and I only have some personal experience with Sirithilism, which swept through Knootoss a few years ago. (OOC: “we love the Elven Queen day”) Do you consider these gods to be historical figures or figures that actually exist? Or do they represent important values to you, like virtues of some sort?” She thinks for a very short moment, and then asks keenly: “or do they perhaps have a role like in the Roman Empire? Gods that can be pleased with offerings?”

She unconsciously shifts the weight of her body from one leg to the other, causing her hip to move as she looks at the Taraskovyan.

OOC:
* I noted Vortex’s post, but Lousewies obviously did not ;)*

Lousewies coughs politely as the Taraskovian looks distracted...

[OOC: Reposted on page 6 due to... issues :shock: ]

Amerigo is a land of Contrast? :?

Vigvar Interlantional Aerospace Port,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

The diplomat handed the scabbard carefully to a TND IG officer standing by, who wrapped what appeared to be a long patch of leather around the hilt of the sword, wrapped the patch around the scabbard, verified that the blade could not be withdrawn without tearing the patch apart and handed it respectfully back to the dilpomat, who immediately handed it over to Lady Sirithil. He then bowed to Herufiriëmmolië(OOC: God bless Copy-Paste) and to Natalya.

- Our most dearest welcome to you. And Lady Vyazemskaya, we all know the dreadfull events that happened in Diablo lately and we are rejoiced to see that you are safe and well. I believe that once you have the time, several gentlemen would like to talk to you. Now, pray, follow us.

The diplomatic party led the way towards a luxurious aircraft, the same as for every other delegation. By the entrance to it, were standing two men. One in the parade uniform of a TDI Leib-Colonel, the other one in the uniform of a TNDF Leib-General. The head of the diplomatic party bent to Natalya and said in a low voice.

- And these are the gentlemen I have mentioned earlier.

The Taraskovyan personel waited for the guests to get into the shuttle and to take places and only then they entered and took place themselves. The aircraft took off and took direction of the Sacred Citadel, being joined by two Attack Aerodynes of the Elite 7th Air Wing...

[OOC: I leave it up to you guys, but if you want, the next post you make can be the one they already arrive at the citadel. Just post that they arrived and were guided to the hall where the rest of the guests were or something. :wink: ]

***

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

Windmill Builders.

Kiril smiled to Lousewies as she coughed.

- Pardon me. Before I explain anything on the gods, I must first tell you about the standart Taraskovyan theory of what is a 'God'.
Indeed, we have a rather particular one. You see, when a person believes into something with passion, honor, with readiness, there is a terrible amount of spiritual energy that is unleashed into the 'ideal object'. One of such a ways to 'release' this energy is to pray. So when you pray to a God, you 'feed' him with power and energy that will give him the possibility to make your life better.

Now, as of the Seven Deities... I will not tell you what the Order says about them for you will hear it shortly enough, but I will give you an other theory.

That theory is that those seven persons were once seven living people who inspired trust and admiration from others to such an extent, that others decided to call them some sort of gods. That is in brief, of course.

But whatever the 'exact' theory may be, all agree that the gods exist as long as they have followers. Once a god loses his worshippers and receives no energy, he dies, for he is 'forgotten'...

So the only 'offering' that can please the gods are prayers.

He looked around the room quickly and then looked back at Lousewies, still smiling.

- I hope that satisfies your curiosity...

[OOC: Please note that I learned this theory about Gods long before any 'White & Black' games and so forth :wink: ]

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

Windmill Builders.

The Prime Minister of the DDR nods curtly. "It does, thank you. It is indeed an interesting theory. It directly stimulates worshippers to aggressively pursue their worship, so to speak. Going by it, we would stand at a competitive disadvantage whereas favours from Gods are concerned." She laughs: "After all, most Knootians don't really worship any kind of God so I will not count on any favours from above for the DDR and her people..." Her eyes twinkle brightly: “And it would make both the Reich God and the Lady Sirithil awesomely powerful.”

And it is truly odd that the Taraskovians are such a religious people., she thinks, after all, I haven't seen them display much of the.... abnormal... behaviour that usually goes with it.", she shrugs off the thought. "Well, I guess it's different for every religion and every people."

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

Kiril raised an eye brow upon hearing Lousewies’es words about a ‘Reich God’.

- Reich God? You mean the Christian god? He is also worshipped in the Grand Duchy. And by an overwhelming majority of citizens. Although the cult of the Seven Deities remains the official religion, orthodoxy has slowly taken over the hearts and minds of the people. But lately, a certain increase in the Disciples of the Order is observed, which lets us hope for a renewed domination of the Order in the religious fields…

- Her Highness, Honor Grand Duchess of Tarasovka, Ekaterina Shakhovskaya has arrived!

The announcer’s voice was heard clear throughout the hall, as he stepped away from one of the entries to clear the way. Six soldiers of the Alexander Guard entered the Hall and stood by each side of the entry. There were two from each battalion: the cloaked figures of the 1st “Silence and Death” Batallion, the cavaliers of the 2nd “Pride and Honor” Batallion and of course – two giant figures, clad into a massive power armor of the 3rd “Glory and Courage” Batallion.

A mere instant after the entry of the Guards, a tall woman, appearing to be around 60 human years, entered the hall. She was wearing a long dress, of deep blue color, with silver decorations all over it, done in a manner of runic scripting. Her eyes covered the hall with a warm gaze, resting upon the faces of the guests. She was smiling, a sparkle of joy in her eyes, most surely due to the fact how proud she was of her son at that very moment. Her hair was tied in a knot behind her head, a silver tiara covering her head. On the tiara was graved a wolf in black marble. The outfit of the former Grand Duchess was not overly rich nor extravagant, but rather a symbolic one, with only the strict minimum allowed.

All Taraskovyan personnel immediately bent on the right knee, bringing the right hand to the heart and lowering their heads. For a moment, the only ones remained standing were the guests who were… standing… The Honor Grand Duchess made a slight nod with her head and the diplomats, guards and other staff immediately stood up. Behind the Honor Grand Duchess was a younger female figure, appearing to be around 19 human years old. Archduchess Vethara, for that was her, was also wearing a deep blue dress, with silver decorations on it. Her abundant hair fell freely on her back, a silver tiara also covering her forehead, with the same wolf on it, done in black. The young Archduchess quickly gazed around the room, her eyes irradiating abnormal joy, a smile constantly illuminating her face.

Vethara leant to her mother’s* ear and whispered something. Ekaterina sighed and shook her head. Vethara shrugged. The head of the diplomatic party coughed and addressed the Honor Grand Duchess in Taraskovyan.

- Your Highness, we have been expecting you. Might I inquire into what prevented you from coming earlier?

Ekaterina smirked and motioned at Vethara.

- We had a little ‘problem’ when leaving the palace. – Vethara blushed. While trying to catch her cat and save it from Mikhail’s pet wolf, she completely annihilated a parade dress, so she had to quickly change dresses mere minutes before take off. – But all is fine. Present me to the guests.

The diplomat bowed and turned around on his heel, addressing the foreign guests.

- Her Highness, Honor Grand Duchess of Tarasovka Ekaterina Shakhovskaya salutes you and welcomes you to the sanctuary of the Taraskovyan history and culture. The Grand Ducal family is truly honoured by your presence and Her Highness is sure the new Grand Duke will not forget this gesture of grace from your part.

The head of the diplomatic party bowed, the Honor Grand Duchess nodded slightly, Vethara rushed off to the balcony, where the loud sound of a myriad of horns could be heard. Silence fell over the entire Citadel and a voice was heard outside, speaking in Taraskovyan. The diplomats began to translate to their respective delegations.

- When times where dark and no life existed, were only Void and Light which fought eternally. And the battle was long, but tireless the combatants were and on they strived, in their hatred of each other. But the Void proved to be stronger and was broken the Light. And out of his flesh were born the bearers of life and light. The Void continued his assault and destroyed many a sphere, until seven heroes, each of them carrying a part of the Light, came together and, strong in their union and aided by mortals, pushed the void back from the spheres where it resides up to these times. But once the enemy was driven away, a quarrel erupted among the mortals. Father fought against son and daughter betrayed mother, and Death reigned all over the realm of the mortals. And the Gods decided to bring peace and imposed a Supreme Lord and Ruler of All Kin over the mortals to stop the wars. And was called the first Shokath-Kshas into the realm of the Deities and he gave the Oath of Faith. To rule in the name of the Gods, to live in the name of the Gods.

Times have gone by and the Shokath-Kshas have followed one an other in the name of the Gods and brought peace to All Kin. And time has come for a new Shokath-Kshas to give the Oath of Faith.

The speaker was a man, dressed into a green robe, his head hooded. In fact, all the seven High Templars wore long robes and were hooded. The man in the green robe made a slight pause.

- Mikhail Shakhovskoy, Second by name, are you prepared to give the Oath of Faith? Are you ready to devote your soul to your Gods, to your People? Do you realize the burden you are taking upon you?

***

Her Most Gracious Siriness.

The aircraft flew swiftly towards the citadel, which was now in sight and was getting nearer each passing second. It was obvious, that the aircraft was flying much faster than usual, but the flight was still gentle and swift. The aircraft landed on one of the landing platforms on top of the base of the citadel, hatches opened.

- … were only Void and Light which fought…

The head of the diplomatic delegation shook his head and addressed Lady Sirithil.

- The first phase of the ceremony has begun, what you hear now is the background of the Taraskovyan mythology.

The same explanation was given by other diplomats to their respective delegations.

- There is no need to hurry, we have all the time we need.

With that, the Taraskovyan personnel led the delegation through numerous corridors right into the hall where the guests were gathered…


OOC:
* Vethara is not Ekaterina’s daughter, she is just the daughter of the former Grand Duke Mikhail Ist. But that’s a toppest secret! ;)

OOC2:
The rest of the post will follow shortly. Don’t want to kill all of you over 3k words long posts :(

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

Windmill Builders.

Lousewies was just listening to the explanations about religion that Kiril was giving when the Grand Duchess arrived. She nodded to the Taraskovian and turned around so as not to miss anything from the spectacle.

How much symbolism, she pondered. It reminded her of the stories the Menelmacari had shared with her about the history of being and existance. Somehow, this seemed more spiritually gratifying then the lectures of her professor on black holes, stellar winds and positive and negative particles eliminating eachother. Stop it, she commanded herself, don't allow yourself to be carried away by this. If there ever were any gods they are dead now. Only n00bs wield such powers.

She turned off her feelings with fragments of cultural antropology: giving the leader Godlike status, or some charter, to promote faith, loyalty and stability. A bit like the ceremony I had to make. Comparing the massive corronation to her own small ceremony put it in perspecitive. But 200 people, her, and the constitution somehow failed to compare. She took another look at the tapestries, realising how special this place must be to the Taraskovians.

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

The yell and cheering of the crowds was deafening as he stood all alone and yet, surrounded by his loyal subjects. Yes, his subjects… no more would he obey his father, no more would he listen to anyone. Leadership meant power and power was what he wanted. For the Gods. For the People. Blood rushed through him, hot, burning… His heart was battling fast.
Somewhere up there, out of sight, his destiny was awaiting him and he was more than ready. He was ready for years and the moment finally came.
The words of the High Templar echoed in the plain below and resonated against the mountain walls. The voice filled the silent void. Mikhail took as much breath into his lungs as he could and shouted, in Taraskovyan.

- I AM READY!

The crowd erupted into a cheer and as words were ferried towards the top of the citadel, where his father and the seven High Templars stood, still out of sight. Up above, a woman wearing a red robe, her head hooded, made a step forward to the stairs and shouted.

- Then prove your worth!

With that, she turned around and walked back into the main temple. It was a rather long way, from the end of the giant stairs, through a square full of Alexander Guards, back to the entry. The other High Templars and the Grand Duke followed. And on the base of the stairs, in front of the first step, the Heir hesitated for a second. He then clenched his right fist and… began his ascension to the realm of the Gods, to give the Oath of Faith. The first half of the way was bordered by servicemen of the TNDF. Officers and soldiers stood randomly, side by side, in parade uniform. The army was the defensive barrier between the foe and the people and in the heat of battle all distinctions vanished, remained only men united by their goal, by their thought. And as the Heir set foot on a new step, the closest troopers raised their swords in salute. And an other row, and yet an other. Forth he went...

***

- It seems that it has begun, Your Highness.

- Valery, I am not blind.

The private aircraft of Archduchess Anastasya was rushing towards the citadel. In it, sat the Archduchess herself and the former Leib-Marshal of the TNDF, Leib-Duke Valery Berilov, as well as five members of the “Duty and Valliance” Battalion – the personal guard of the Archduchess.. The Archduchess put her glass of wine on the table and shot an angry gaze out of the window.

- I still do not think you should attend the coronation. You have the support of seven out of fifty five governors and thus can create your own fiefdom. No need for any thea-

- Valery! With all respect I owe to your age and experience, will you please shut up?

- Of course, Your Highness.

He smirked and sent an other portion of vodka down his throat.

- Your Highness, we will touch down in thirty seconds.

The Archduchess only nodded to the pilot who immediately vanished back into the cockpit.
The aircraft touched down swiftly, the entry opened and the Archduchess, stepped down, followed by Berilov and the five guards. She went through the corridors, her guards pushing aside two members of the staff. Immediately, several secret doors opened and men, in the black and red armor of the “Wraths” of Sathala stepped out.

- Your Highness, the Citadel is sovereign territory of the Order! If you do not behave, we will have to ask you and your men to leave…

She shot an angry, cold and annihilating look at the “Wrath”.

- Then do so!

The three “Wraths” backed while the Archduchess passed through them, her guards pushing the Soldiers of the Order aside. From that moment on, she could feel somebody watching over her. Most surely the “Wraths” have alerted their colleagues…
Near the entry to the hall where the guests were, but still out of sight of the dignitaries, five “Zealots” of Zynthris, in their tall power armors, appeared out of nowhere and blocked her and her men the entry.

- Your Highness, I remind you that this is sovereign territory and all outbreak of violence will be dealt with severely.

She only hissed.

- Get out of the way.

Two of her guards stood forward and prepared to make way. The head of the Zealot squad only shook his head. Several secret doors opened and they vanished. Anastasya put on her face the happiest of smiles and stepped into the hall. The announcer did not remark her first, until one of her guards “gently” tapped him on the shoulder.

- Oh… euh… Archduchess of Tarasovka, Anastasya Shakhovskaya!

None of the Taraskovyan personel bowed. Several of the diplomats only nodded before going on to their talks with the foreign guests.
Ekaterina gave a quick glance at her daughter, raising her right eyebrow. Anastasya responded, politely, with the same gaze…
The Honor Grand Duchess then turned away and walked over to a Taraskovyan officer, giving a cold glance at Berilov, who shrugged and poored himself some vodka.

OOC: For a little idea of how all of the mentioned guards as well as 'children' look, refer to here:
http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1484687#1484687

The coronation wasn´t overly interesting, at least not for Aramaki, who merely smiled at the (for him) rather odd ceremony.

It´s so easy to be done in informal, practical ways... why all this shiny, useless stuff, the ceremony? Odd culture, to say the least...

Sakurai was slightly more interested, she was young, and open for anything... and even slightlöy impressed by the ceremony. However, she was far more interested in the Archduchess who entered so... unannounced, or at least unexpected.

Somehow, i have the feeling she wasn´t expected... But i like her, somehow... I wonder how she is like, in private...

Sirithil watched the ceremony with rapt attention; her eyes shone with excitement as she felt the history, the tradition, of this place, and of what was taking place before her. It was fascinating, all of it... she watched it all, silent, her crimson eyes missing no detail - not even the unexpected arrival of the elder sister of the new Grand Duke.

Well, this is a new wrinkle...

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/sirithil/sirithilnosfeanor.gifLady Sirithil nos Fëanor
Elentári of the Eternal Noldorin Empire of Menelmacar
"We have known freedom's price. We have shown freedom's power. We will see freedom's victory."
~US President George W. Bush
We Love the Iraqi Information Minister (http://www.welovetheiraqiinformationminister.com)
Clicky-clicky!

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

Kiril made a bow to Lousewies

- If you pardon me, I have to settle a few things.

Without really awaiting an answer, he quickly approached Anastasya and bowed to her. She smiled in return. They spoke in Russian, quietly enough for nobody to hear them. At least - none of the guests.

- Your Highness, I cannot imagine all the courage you needed to come here. After all, by all right, this should have been your day… not… his…

- Yes, Kiril, I know… and look who my dear brother gathered here. The useless Knootians who are only good at causing trouble…

- I must admit that Prime Minister of theirs is quite… charming… And eager to learn more about our customs.

The Archduchess smiled faintly and glanced at Sirithil.

- My, my, my, if it is not her Sirinessss! Well, I know someone who will most surely be happy…

- Your Highness, I do not believe that is the right way to speak about your…

- Sister? She is no sister of mine.

- No, I was going to say ‘guest’… But, what is with Vethara?

- None of your business, my dear Kiril.

Berilov’s voice cut the little conversation short. Kiril peered at Berilov with a surprised gaze. Valery only motioned at Lousewies and Kiril nodded. He went back to the Prime Minister.

- Thank you for waiting. There were certain 'issues' to discuss.

He gave the Knootian PM a smile. One of Anastasya’s guards came up to her and handed her a little communications device. She spoke to someone on the other end of the line, giving short answers. At the end, she seemed to be much happier than she was before. She handed the device back to the guard and looked around the room once more, noticing Nathicana’s presence.

She came up to the Dread Lady and nodded in greeting.

- Lady Nathicana, I presume? Good to see you again. Oh, my, if it is not her Highness Gehenna of Tartarus! I do not believe the Grand Duchy has seen so many esteemed guests ever since… since… a long time…

She gave an other glance at the guests, nodding to Aramaki and then to Sakurai, quickly noticing the rulers of EOTED, the ever silent D’ron presidential family and several other guests. It would have seemed that Mikhail just took out the list of all nations GDT has ever interacted with and invited a bit everyone ‘just because’…
She shook her head and turned back to Nathicana.

- I hope your trip was pleasant. I got news that those idiots from the TND IG nearly opened fire at your delegation. Would have been a nice start in the foreign policy of my… dear… brother…

***

It has been already half an hour, or even more. He went on an on, higher and higher on the stairs, closer and closer to his fate. The crowds around cheered, soldiers drew their swords, concealed security personnel was always ready to intervene. Soon, he would reach the top and give the Oath of Faith, and take on the ruling, but for now, Mikhail marched onwards in a steady pace, feeling no fatigue.

OOC: grrrrr

IC:
Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

Lousewies bowed her head and shoulders towards Kiril and whispered softly, so as not to disturb the ceremony: “Please forgive me my ignorance, I hope you can endure all my questions, but who is the Archduchess that you just spoke with? Is she part of the ceremony somehow?”, as if to explain herself she added: “ She arrived later then the rest, so does she have some special part in it like confirming the oath? Or am I all wrong?” She looked the Taraskovian directly in the eyes for just a moment before she averted them again.
”
Siri also arrived late, the Knootian Prime Minister noted somewhat irritated, but then again, she is ALWAYS late. I’m surprised she even made it here. A small grin played over her lips.

BUMP?

Double post

Nathicana watched the proceedings with interest, keeping quiet, nodding politely to those she knew or recognized for one reason or other. The entrance of Anastasya did not go unnoticed, and she arched a brow at the open disrespect shown the woman. Well, if I had any doubts before ... When she approached, Nathi smiled pleasantly, making a respectful nod of her head, a gesture of greeting equals.

"Archduchess Anastasya - a pleasure to see you again. I'm pleased you chose to attend, in spite of what might be seen as an 'uncomfortable' situation here. I do hope you've been well? And please, that little incident when we landed was entirely my fault. I should have been paying closer attention in my instructions. No harm, no foul. They were most polite and apologetic over the whole misunderstanding. These things occasionally happen, no?"


(ooc: Knoot - you DO know if you're the last to post, you can just delete your double posts instead of saying 'double post' in one?)

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

Windmill builders.

Kiril smiled to Lousewies and shook his head, letting go off a deep sigh.

- The person I spoke to is Archduchess of Tarasovka, Anastasya Shakhovskaya herself. The elder daughter and child of His Highness, the now Honor Grand Duke of Tarasovka, Mikhail I Shakhovskoy and Her Highness, the now Honor Grand Duchess of Tarasovka, Ekaterina Shakhovskaya.
And as of her role… she has no role in this event.

He grinned and gave a glance to the balcony, where Archduchess Vethara was waving very energetically into the general direction of the Alexander Guard Honorary Regiment, which was assembling on the square between the entrance to the temple and the end of the giant stairs. The Honor Grand Duchess was standing on an other end of the balcony, talking to who appeared to be a TNDF Leib-General.

Sakurais eyes follow the Archduchess. She is fascinated by this woman... being dark, threatening, showing her strong will...

A fascinating woman...

And deep inside of her, she feels a strong bond to this woman... a connection... she wants to be like her...

She can hardly wait to see what happens next... It´s fairly obvious She isn`t invited... Nor welcome.

Which just makes the whole szene more interesting... She can almost feel the tension in the room.

* His Imperial Highness, Emperor Alexander Nemerov of the Star Empire of Steel Butterfly in the Orion Sector

"К сожалению, я не способен к участию в это время из-за переходящего сопротивления."

http://207.44.246.95/43/101/upload/p1.gif
Император Александр Немеров
Империя Звезды Стальной Бабочки,
В Секторе Ораджон, который включает:
Стальной Остров, Стальная Луна,
КТАНБХАР Eabo4Ka, XIII,
Аеизис, Бивенс, Эстар VIII
Премьер-министр Союза Сектора Ораджон,
Заказ Серафимов

[OOC: Если это - старая вереница, и я уже сказал, что я не мог присоединиться, я сожалею. Я выгляжу фовард к работе одного из них с Вами некоторое время в будущем. And sorry if the grammar is off...for I was rushed.]

Treznor stands by Nathicana and attempts to look ornamental. He's not following what's happening here, but then again, he didn't really expect to. His intelligence on local politics was sketchy at best. He'll ask Nath about it later.

He glances out of the corner of his eye to see what S.H.O.D.A.N. is up to. Being amused, he expects.

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

Windmill builders.

Kiril smiled to Lousewies and shook his head, letting go off a deep sigh.

- The person I spoke to is Archduchess of Tarasovka, Anastasya Shakhovskaya herself. The elder daughter and child of His Highness, the now Honor Grand Duke of Tarasovka, Mikhail I Shakhovskoy and Her Highness, the now Honor Grand Duchess of Tarasovka, Ekaterina Shakhovskaya.
And as of her role… she has no role in this event.

He grinned and gave a glance to the balcony, where Archduchess Vethara was waving very energetically into the general direction of the Alexander Guard Honorary Regiment, which was assembling on the square between the entrance to the temple and the end of the giant stairs. The Honor Grand Duchess was standing on an other end of the balcony, talking to who appeared to be a TNDF Leib-General.

"Ah, thank you", replied the Knootian Prime Minister. She wondered why the others treated her so... odd... but paid no more attention to it. Instread she turned to the ceremony that was still going on, turning her head to get a better view of the Alexander Guard Honorary Regiment at the end of the giant stairs. "so strange to have that many soldiers at such a peaceful gathering. It must be a show of power for them..."

*waits for further developments*

Sacred Citadel of Zynthris,
Grand Ducal Cardinia,
Grand Duchy of Tarasovka,
Sisgardia.

Anastasya smiled broadly.

- Yes, I chose to attend in the very last moment. Actually, it should have been the contrary…
She made a quick glance at Sakurai and, raising a brow, quickly nods to her in greeting before returning all her attention to Nathicana again.

- By the Taraskovyan traditions, it is not the oldest male who is the heir, but the ‘strongest’ of all possible heirs. Unfortunately, since such a tradition always provoked small scale ‘civil wars’ in the past with the heirs fighting for their right, this tradition has been abandoned by the Grand Duke Nikolay the IInd, my Grand Father in favour of a more simple one – the eldest child becomes the heir. But for some reasons, my father chose to impose the burden of leadership upon my younger brother, who will soon appear on that square over there.

She motioned outside of the balcony.

- And since my family thought I would be angered by this, they asked me not to attend and thus not spark… any ‘tensions’. As if I would…

A malicious grin appeared for a second on her face and then vanished, replaced yet again by a mask of friendship and happiness.

- At any rate, I am glad no guests were shot dead or blown up today. Would have been bad for our hospitality reputation and… Oh, and there is the one because of whom all this show was put up!

***

He really wondered when would those endless stairs simply end. Not that he was already weary, but the lust to receive the Sword the sooner the better was boiling in him. Ah, there it is!
The last few steps of the stairs vanished and he appeared on the square leading to the entrance of the main temple. The entire Alexander Guard Honorary Regiment was in formation, on both sides of the trail. Not a single guard made a single motion. They stood still as the heir went through them, to the entrance, before finally vanishing in it, a good dozen meters under the balcony of the Guest Hall, under the attentive gaze of his mother and energetic encouragements of his youngest sister.

[OOC: Time to get this thing done, more to come on the ‘ceremony’ part, of course.]

Lousewies waited for the celebrations to continue, curious about what was to come. "They should have given me some kind of programme sheet or something. That would have been nice. Ah, well, this makes it more of a surprise I guess." She shrugged unconciously. "Ah, well, this isn't an entertainment show but a corronation."

Amerigo is a land of tolerance? :?

OOC: Greatly abbreviated since I am really lazy right now and typing this to boost things up and get to the fun part right away :)

IC:Inside of the guest hall, the giant tapestry covering one of the walls suddenly vanished somehow. The wall itself, which seemed to be carved with numerous gravures, ‘broke’ in two and each half slid away, revealing a much huger hall. The floor of the hall was a mere ten meters away from where the guests stood. The hall itself was a gigantic half circle, the ceiling going a good hundred meters high. Against the arc wall, stood seven huge and tall statues on a great distance from each other.

One of the statues was a tall man, with a giant sword in his right hand and a shield in the left. He was wearing a heavy armor and his gaze was piercing the hall. His long hair fell on his armor. To his right was a woman. She was standing tall, a spear leaning near her right leg as the left hand was holding a dagger. She was also wearing armor, although a lighter one, and her abundant hair was gathered behind her head with a band. He gaze was also piercing the hall, freezing the blood of those who met it. To the left side of the man in heavy armor was a man in robes, looking very similar to the one clad into the heavy armor. His gaze was much more gentle as the other ones. Zyntrhis, Sathala and Atagath, three of the Seven Deities. The other four occupied their places in other sports of the hall, still against the wall. Nahashir was to the right of Sathala, holding his sword ready to defend the Faith and Justice. And next to him stood Nethaila, forever inviting the mortals to access knowledge and wisdom. To the left of Atagath stood Kethala. She was stretching her arms out, holding her hands in the form of a cup. Something transparent was in that ‘cup’. Water to calm the thirst of a weary man? Tears of sadness? Or diamonds which she gives to the poor? Nobody ever knew and the interpretation was always different. And finally, Amathir, the God of Trade, Commerce and many, many other things. His smile was radiating in the hall, bringing joy to the ones looking at him.

All seven statues were tall of around 30 meters, overlooking the hall from their pedestals. Underneath every statue was what appeared to be a throne, crafted into the pedestal itself, and on each throne already sat a figure in long hooded robes. There was nobody else present in the gigantic hall apart from the Seven High Templars and the Heir, who immediately directed himself to the High Templar in the green robes. Mikhail kneeled on both knees in front of the statue of Zynthris. The High Templar stood up and came forward. His speech was in Native Taraskovyan, a very long speech, full of names, since he was reciting the line of the Grand Dukes ever since the legendary Uidath of the Emerald Spire. Then, he went on to an other rather long speech, this time telling how glorious the people of the Grand Duchy are. And finally, time came for the ‘Oath’ itself.

- Do you make the Oath to serve your Gods, to be their Will in the world, to be their Word in the hearts, to be the Faith in the souls?
- I make the Oath.
- Do you make the Oath to serve your people, to protect them and to enrich them, to watch over them in the name of your Gods?
- I make the Oath.
- You have made the Oath of Faith and Gods be your judges from now on and Time their witness. Should you fail you will be cursed and dishonoured. Should you succeed, the Gods will reward you!

The Templat reached into his cloak and in one single move took out a blade. It was a saber, with a slightly curved blade, with a small blade on the other end of the hilt. The hilt was deep black, while the blades shined with a deep blue light coming from the very inside of it. On the ‘balcony’ of the Guest Hall, Anastasya bit her lip at the sight of it and clenched her fist for a moment. The Templar handed the sword to the Heir, who grabbed it by the end of the blade, letting several drops of blood fall on the floor. The High Templar, from under his hood, nodded slightly.

- Your blood has fed the Sword. Let it lead you to glo-

He did not have the time to finish. The High Templar of Sathala, in a deep red robe stood up and shouted.

- Travesty!

Mikhail was still on his knees, putting the Sword into a scabbard on his back. The High Templar of Zynthris turned to the High Templar of Sathala.

- I had enough of this! For generations have I seen Traitors to the Kin inherit of the power of Gods! For generations have you, all of you betrayed the Kin! You! The servants of the Gods have betrayed your Masters! Who have you granted the Power? Traitors! Traitors corrupted by Filth! For generations, ever since the ‘exodus of the faithful’ was the Kin dirtened and you have done nothing to stop it!

She was moving closer and closer to the Heir, slowly, with a lot of superiority in every of her move. Her hood was covering her head, he spear clenched in her hand. Mikhail stood up and wanted to face the High Templar of Sathala when the one of Zynthris stood in front of him.

- The ways of the Gods must be obeyed, Sister. Retake your place. He is the one over us all right now.
- Never shall I obey a Traitor! Never shall Sathala watch over his armies! Traitor and Usurper!

Nastya, standing on the balcony suddenly stepped forward, smiling broadly. This was the moment she was awaiting and she was not mistaken. Especially not after everything that her ‘special friends’ told her…

- I, the rightful Heir and Kshokath-Kshas, challenge the Sword!

The faces of all Taraskovyan personnel present in the Guest Hall were already pale and now they were even whiter than the pure snow covering the top of the Cardinian Spine far away. All this meant only one thing… a dispute for the right to become the Supreme Lord and Ruler of all Kin. For two generations this has been avoided and it seemed that the old habits were coming back into the daily life of the Grand Duchy.

Mikhail looked up at his Sister and spoke.

- As the Kshokath-Kshas by birth and right, I accept your challenge. But what will you fight me with? Sticks and insults?

A quiet laughter went through the Guest Hall, but immediately vanished when the Archduchess spoke. The Honor Grand Duchess and Archduchess Vethara were making their way through the hall towards the rebellious Anastasya.

- Ever so funny, my dear brother. You shall see what I reserve for you when time comes.

With that, she turned around and went out of the Hall, slowly, with a lot of superiority, not paying any attention to her mother and giving a glance full of loathe at Vethara. Below, in the Hall of Gods, the High Templar of Sathala directed herself towards one of the many exits. The Grand Duke followed her with his gaze and directed himself to the exit. He still had to receive the ‘Oath of Loyalty’ from the Alexander Guard and he really hoped there won’t be any other surprises today.

Delendre and his sun both suddenly shivered. They experienced the same sensation, as they felt like they slept for two months in one single second, and then were waken up abdruptly. Looking at each other with raised eyebrows, neither one of them decided it was worth talking about, and they proceeded to do whatever they were doing.

Now this is interesting.

Sakurai was... well, intrigued by the situation, and, being young and easily influenced, she... yes, admired Nastya.

This was most definitely not something one would see every day... She could hardly wait for what would happen next... Although deep inside, a new thought formed... This events... They could be relevant... very relevant for the future... considering Sisgardia as well as the generally very close relations between DA and the Grand Duchy...

In any case, it couldn´t be forseen how this would end... Which was just another reason to stay, and to watch...

For this was something that could have significant importance for the future.

Upon witnessing the events taking place during the ceremony, Delendre and his son watched in horror as their most stable and long lasting national ally ever was plunged into civil war. Of course, no actual acts of war had taken place yet, but no other outcome could be expected than a violent clash between various loyalist and rebel parties.

With a quick nod to his father, the youngest of the Delendres left the bystanders, to proceed immediately to the TVC embassy. There, he would contact the appropriate persons and institutions such as this. From this moment on, all available intelligence and monitoring capacity would be directed to the Grand Duchy. On top of that, additional flottilas of vessels would probably be called to enforce the 5th fleet above Sisgardia, and without a doubt quite a few ground force regiments would be mobilized.

And not to forget, the Nemesi. The organization had been a personal project of his father and his closest friend and collegue, Robert Stone-Soban. Especially created for quick semi-military response actions in fragile situations, this would be the perfect opportunity to test their performance in a real life setting...

The entire regiment was in formation on the square in front of the temple. All three battalions were there, their standards high above them, their armor shining in the light of the sun. In front of the formation stood the three Battalion Commanders, side by side. At that moment, the Alexander Guard Honorary Regiment was without a leader, without a Colonel, for the Grand Dukes themselves were the commanders of their own Guard. The Grand Duke stood in front of the three commanders, silent. The silence lasted for several moments, until finally, the Grand Duke spoke.

- Long have you served my father and his fathers before him. The Dynasty is grateful to you for your loyalty and I deign impose the burden upon your shoulders one more time. Will you serve me as you have served my ancestors, with ferocity and loyalty, with courage and dignity?
- So we will, if you promise to guide us as your ancestors did!

The Commanders made a step forward, the Commander of the 1st “Silence and Death” Battalion took into his arms the flag of the regiment and advanced to the Grand Duke, stopping a step away from Mikhail. The leader kneeled on his right knee and embraced the soft fabric of deep blue color. On the flag, was a coat of arms – a sword and a spear crossed in front of a Wolf with a completely black fur, his eyes shining like two stars. The Grand Duke then stood up and an adjutant came forward, holding a banner of the Dynasty – on a silver font was a Black Wolf, with eyes shining like two deep blue stars. The entire regiment kneeled on the right knee, including the Commanders. The adjutant went through the ranks, beginning with the commanders, stopping by each soldier, who took his helm off and embraced the flag. And while they did that, the rest of the regiment was reciting the old text. A speech, made by the first Guards to the Grand Duke Alexander the Ist.

- With Honor, Pride and Loyalty shall We serve the Dynasty, and when the final hour comes, with Glory shall We meet it, and We shall not run or flee, but We shall stand Victorious, and should We ever fall before and enemy, than We shall not fall in vain and Our sacrifice will safe the Dynasty!
And the Glorious Duke shall rule safe and unhindered while One of Us remains!
And strong will be the Motherland while One of Us still stands!
And no harm will come to our people while One of Us still fights!
And should We break this Oath and flee dishonourable, the Gods will do their justice!
So was it and so will it be, for all times, for all eternity shall We stand in the path of Darkness!

And only when the last soldier kissed the banner of the Dynasty, the entire regiment stood up, as one, put their helms on and in one loud, terrifying voice shouted out.

- Saviours of Light, defenders of Hope, pillars of Justice and let the Gods be our Judges!

But just as they were shouting the ‘motto’ of the Regiment, a totally unexpected event happened. All around the Citadel, hangar doors opened and myriads of fighters and dropships flew out. The Order had his own military and his own technology. The ships flew out fast and took direction to Aphyr, most certainly to Tin-Vilena. A small aircraft with the banner of the Dynasty flew above the Guard regiment and hovered above them. The door of it opened and Mikhail could see… Nastya, smiling broadly, with the High Templar of Sathala by her side. The Archduchess waved, grinning, to her brother and the aircraft set course to Tin-Vilena. Mikhail lowered his gaze and saw that his Guards already encircled him, like a shield and that the soldiers from the 3rd “Glory and Courage” Battalion were aiming at the drop ship with their heavy guns while the rest of the regiment scattered through the square. Attack aerodynes of the 7th Airwing appeared immediately, accompanied by police UPAC’s. The Grand Duke only sighed at the comedy and made one single motion with his hand, shaking his head.

- Show’s over! All proceed as planned.

The Guards, rather reluctantly, abandoned their new leader, except for an escort of six soldiers – two from each battalion and went off to board the dropships to be taken to Vigvar Winter Palace. The Heir vanished yet again in the entry of the temple, but this time he appeared out of one of the entries right in the Guest Hall. Smiling broadly, he greeted each guest, with an especially warm greeting to the representatives of the Sisgardian nations, thanking all for coming.

- The Grand Duchy is truly honoured to receive so many foreign guests at such an event and I, as Grand Duke, am truly grateful to you. You are now guests of the Grand Duchy and of the Taraskovyan people and are free to stay as long as you wish and go wherever you wish and do whatever pleases your heart. And as we, Taraskovyans, always say: “Feel at home… but not too much!”

A laughter went through the Hall at the joke. The Grand Duke was not worried at all by what had just happened. In fact, he didn’t want the guests to be worried either…

[OOC: Basically, had to shorten it all a little. So right now, I guess you’re pretty much free to do anything. Except, of course, invading the Grand Duchy, assassinating prominent Taraskovyan leaders and people, etc. etc. All the mentioned activities will be available a little later ;) . ]

OOC rectification: after talks, it became clear Meher can't just leave. Therefore, it is now assumed he is contacting the Corporation over a secure line instead, with permission of the GDT player

###

The Corporation receives word

Just like the rest of the floor, this particular chamber was designed to fit the extentions that the body of Council carried. The dominant colors being the dark blue and white of the Corporation, the room radiated a combination of both comfort and efficiency. When the double doors slided open, the young female body of Council entered the room. As the conversations inside fell silent, she walked up to her seat, the connections between her and the rest of the councelor bodies, plus the vast amount of machinery, moving along above her head. Dressed in the same colors as those in which the room was painted, she carefully re-arranged her clothing after sitting down. Then, she smiled friendly at the men and women, who were all still saluting and looking straight forward.

“At ease, my friends. As you all know, this meeting has two purposes. First, to summarize the situation in the Grand Duchy and secondly to determine what our response will be. Councelor Stone-Soban is not present her today, so instead councelor Paktu will lead this meeting. Nejra, please proceed.”

Shortly clearing his throat, Nejra got up from his seat and turned on some of the holographic projectors present in Council’s personal military command centre.

“Ladies, gentlemen, as of about an hour ago, the Grand Duchy has not one, but two heirs to the throne. Both children of the former Duke are claiming the throne, and chances are almost 100% that this will lead to civil war. As you can see on the maps projected here and here, we expect GDT to soon be divided into rivaling territories where the two sides will clash along the borders. Roughly taken, it will probably result in armed combat between the northern and southern part of the country, which also means that both sides will be able to wield about the same arsenal of weaponry. That is an estimate of how the current situation will escalate. General Karov-Soban, please be so kind to illuminate our options concerning this crisis.”

An old man, a veteran of many combat situations, stood up. He was no longer in active duty, but Robert Soban, the current military head of TVC, had always kept him on the payroll as his primary advisor. Today, however, he would not stand at the side of his direct superior, but at the table of Council.

“Thank you Sir. As soon as we got the news, we have started to mobilize every single military unit within a 75 mile radius from the Taraskovyan border in the north. All marine and hoverdyne elements there are on full alert, and aerodynes are escorting dropships that are flying in terradyne reserve units coming from the south. In 48 hours, we will have a force there consisting of hoverdynes, aerodynes, terradynes, battlemechs and infantry large enough to conquer a small nation.

Also, the navy has ordered the 6th fleet to join the 5th fleet in orbit above Sisgardia. We don’t know exactly when they will arive from the Stratos shipyards, but their forward reconnasaince forces have reported to jump into the system before midnight. This means that each branch of our military is being mobilized to the desired extint, which leaves us with the special forces. Black Wolf elements are being put on stand-by. We have contacted Celeborne and will insert the first divisions into their territory tonight, to be able to assault the rebel forces from the north, effectively forcing them to divide their attention onto two fronts. We’re sending along several Battlemage elements with them, to make sure they can also cope with activities of magical nature. So to state it short: both the military and the special forces are preparing for a big rumble.”

Council nodded and thought for a moment before asking her next question...

“I know that I own 100% of all stock of the intelligence services and the military and navy. This should mean that they do my bidding, but their ranks are still consisting of Kiithmen. With which side do the Kiithid sympathize?”

Nejra Paktu, Councelor for Foreign Affairs, was the one to answer the question. “Kiith Nabaal and Manaan are strongly represented in the north, and have strong ties with the GDT. They won’t like this rebellion to disturb their business, and will side with the Duke. The same goes for the S’Jet, Paktu and Soban, who have a long standing history of joint military actions with the armies of the Dukes. The Riif and Liir’Ra will always prefer a neutral attitude, and we can expect them to stall the mobilization of the armed forces in their areas, as they prefer to stay out of conflicts. Where the Gaalsien and the others stand is a little unclear, but the mightiest Kiithid are all siding with the Duke, even if we would order them not to do so.”

“And the Battlemages and Black Wolfs? Joining them means renouncing your Kiith ties. Where do they stand?”

“With the rest of the military. The Battlemages have discovered many similarities between Stratos and the main male Taraskovyan deity during their studies, and will not support the female high priest that seems to have a leading role in the rebellion. And as for the Black Wolfs...they wear the same symbol as the Duke does. From what I have heared so far, their commanders are even having a hard time preventing them from going to the GDT on their own expense. They’ve never been so eager to start a war...”

“Good, but remember one thing.” Council replied: “This is not another planet or even another continent; this is Sisgardia. We need to make this as fast and as painless as possible. Above all, we need to prevent a large scale use of Ion cannons from our side, and ECTOS deployments from the GDT parties. We rule the seas to our east and north-east. I want that advantage used to set up the biggest possible logistical system. Commandeer hoverdynes from the Corporate factories if necessary, but I want a constant stream of weapons, medicine and food heading towards the Grand Duchy as soon as armed conflict breaks out. Mobilize our aerodyne wings in the south and west to guard those logistical lines.”

It was settled now. If civil war would occur, Tarasovka would see Corporate forces coming in from the south, logistical support coming in from the southeast, and battlemages and Black Wolfs harassing the rebels from the north and northeast from day one on.

--

At a base in the centre of the Utharian Peninsula, two regiments of Black Wolfs stood in formation, lined up on the asfalt. They were all dressed and armed alike: every man carrying a rifle and handgun, with the exception of every 6th men, them being the indivuals that carried heavier rifles, rocketlaunchers and radio-equipment. In front of the lines, Lord Stone-Soban adressed his men as each of them stared directly at him with a grim look on their face.

“Black Wolfs! You have fought for the Corporation! You have fought for Sisgardia! Now I ask you to Fight for our closest ally, for our friends, for our Brethern! The existence of the Duke and the Wolf that he carries is threatened. Will we stand by and let that happen?!?”

The firm ‘NO!’ coming from hundreds of mouths at exactly the same time seemed like a short tremble of the earth itself. As the mass of warriors split up into groups of several dozens at once, loaded dropships started to slowly lift of from the ground, their blue plasma exhaust increasing in size by the second. Gently, they slided into the sky, heading for the northern lands of Celeborne. As soon as they left Corporate airspace, aerodyne fighter escorts dropped down from higher positions and took their positions to guards the aerial convoy.

--

Admiral Kiira Manaan looked at the calculations and hypothesises that the white-coated woman showed her. She was in charge of the 6th fleet, currently on-route to Sisgardian space. Before enetering hyperspace, Corporate HQ had briefed her as thoroughly as was possible at that time, and both her heart and mind sympathized with the Grand Duke. As she subconsciously wondered why all TVC personnel were so quick and fierce to speak out their loyalty to the Duke, she soon found the answer. Among other things, TVC culture strongly renounced all forms of rebellion, treachery and distrust. Not having sympathy for the GDT rebels was a simple consequence of that way of life.

“....and as you see, we are able to slow it down significantly, but we still have no way of stopping it.”

Kiira forced herself to pay attention to the dull and boring words of the scientist. If TVC was to fight the rebels, they’d probably have to find a way to counter ECTOS. And the crews on board the 2 scientific frigates that were attached to her fleet could be the only people able to find a way to do just that....

The events were interesting, just as Sakurai had hoped... And her young, inexperienced heart had already decided who to support... Nastya, this strong woman, this strong will... She could hardly wait to see what happens in the future.

It was, of course, one of the reasons she stayed. The other reason were the previously discussed business deals with the Taraskovyans, which she now, well, continues to discuss.

She didn`t know that it was this what saved her...

In DA, Griffith chuckled as he heard the news of Aramaki returning... He didn´t know, yet, that Sakurai wasn`t with him.

He had prepared it for a long while, taking out those who stand in his way... Clarks nationalists had given him what he needed, the ressources he didn´t have, despite leading the largest security corporation in DA.

He could dream now... dreams of a greater future, dreams of a greater DA...

Dreams he would soon make real...

He still chuckled at Aramaki`s foolishness, when the virus his minions had planted in the pilot`s flight routines activated itself, instantly turning the pilots mind into pudding.

The plane that had just left FTR airspace when it failed. The wreckage was found hours later... Both, the pilot as well as Aramaki, were dead.

Sakurai heard of the 'accident', hours later... again, a few hours later, she left as well...

------------------------------------------
Windmill Builders - Europolis
Knootian military base in Sisgardia
------------------------------------------

Outside the tall white mills slowly turned in the Sisgardian wind, generating alternative power for the base and sparing the conventional plant. For the Knootians, the ever turning weeks were a pretty sight. Cosy but also technological; sustainable but also economical.

Inside, the Knootian military staff in Sisgardia had just drawn the same conclusions as the council of the Vortex Corporation. General Couzy, commander in chief of Dutch forces in Sisgardia and overall ambassador to the region was surprised that this had happened. His otherwise rather dull job had suddenly become a whole lot more challenging. The presence of an AIVD spy at this staff meeting -”Not a spy… just an agent…”- made him uncomfortable. Why the man wore sunglasses in the middle of winter was also a mystery to him.

“Does a civil war have to break out EVERY SINGLE TIME LOUSEWIES VISITS A COUNTRY!” he exclaimed.

”It has only happened before in Dyelli Beybi when they became… -whatever it is they are now-, in Lavenrunz with Mirbach, and now in the GDT. I’d say we have plenty of allies left, though she does score above average in terms of civil wars during state-visits. My agency has been pleading for some time now to have dignitaries escorted by armed guards” replied the AIVD man known as ‘Iceman’ coldly.

Couzy couldn’t make out if he was being serious about that last comment, or deeply sarcastic. “Is she safe?”

The AIVD’er replied in the same cold, unemotional tone. “The Prime Minister is secure. The agency is trying to establish contact with her at this very moment.”

“In the meantime, what is the background of these people? The Grand Duke was a moderate, no?”, asked General Couzy
“The rebels, or challengers if you prefer, are being lead by radicals.” He pressed a few buttons incorporated in the table and punched up a display on a main view screen behind him. A 3D image of Nastya’s face came up with several bits of information next to her. The AIVD man continued his presentation: “Nastya doesn't like humans, elves and all 'non-kin'. Radical extreme right wing from our perspective, like Tator or Mirbach.” A collective sigh goes through the room. ”Not again”, thought Couzy remembering Lavenrunz and the Shadow War all too well.

Iceman continues undisturbed:
“The Grand Duke is more tolerant. He is rather centrist. The support base of both leaders is, as I mentioned before, in different parts of the country too. Support varies amongst the democratically elected governors. My agency does not yet have a complete picture yet but we will update the picture as soon as the information becomes available.”

The computers beeped again, and a small “one” flashed on the display before the AIVD man with the sunglasses. “The Prime Minister is on line one. I will put her through,” General Couzy noted the spy ”didn’t even bother to ask!” “Computer, display line one on the main viewer.”

The computer whizzed and a hugely enlarged view of the Knootian Prime Minister’s face before a small vidcam fixed inside an advanced telephone. The background appears to be a hallway of some sort. It appears to be deserted.
Lousewies is reasonably calm:
“Hi, before you ask I’m safe with the Grand Duke and all the other guests here. I just went into the corridor to have a little privacy. They are out for blood, and some are even enthusiastic about the thing. This… woman just took an entire contingent of the Order's military and just flew away...”

The intelligence man interrupted: “Madam, did you catch anything of that conversation during the ceremony? Details may be important.”
Lousewies replies, somewhat irritated: “I studied law not obscure mythical drow languages. I only have a vague idea of what is going on here.”

Couzy replies. “We’ll get you our of there soon madam. A transport from Europolis is on its way.”
“Thank you, general. I will meet you as soon as I get there, I’d like to get a full briefing. Until then.”
The screen fades.

“There is another thing you should know”, says the Intel officer before anyone can comment. “I did not want to put this on a potentially insecure line. We’ve had a report that an Angstian plane carrying crashed several hours after this situation.” He pushes more buttons, typing in coordinates, apparently. A bright red dot appears on the map at the place where the plane crashed. The AIVDer looks at the general and the assembled staff. “A coincidence? I think not. We still have to verify who was in it but you can bet it was someone important.”

“Do you think the Angstians may have something to do with this situation?”, asked Couzy.
“Der Angst and the GDT are very close allies. Angstian intelligence is creative. Clones, genetic manipulation. The works. All the things we could do if we would get more funding. They must have seen this coming. There is a good chance that they are involved somehow. We should watch our back with them and monitor closely.”
((OOC: yes, I know, entirely jumping to the wrong conclusion.))

“How about the Vortex Corporation?”, asked one of the younger staff members.
“They will support the Grand Duke. I would suggest that you contact them.

The general nods. “Please, if we are to intervene this is a military matter. Please leave us now.”

…

((OOC: This RP requires to actually establish a spot for the Europolis military base on the map. I have – as a working theory – designated a certain island on the map. The only *cough* minor problem s that it belongs to Vortex. The Knootians/Dutch came there to protect the Vortex Corporation anyways. I’ll talk to you ‘bout that on IRC if possible. :)

Also, offers of help have been sent to both the Grand Duke and the Vortex Corporation over a secure line.))

[OOC: Well, thanks for all those who followed and posted and attended. I'll be wrapping this thread up to move on with the new plot. Of course, if you want to chat with the Grand Duke, you're more than free to do so :wink: ]

[OOC: Thread wrapped up. Further events unfolding here (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=124904).]

[OOC: Applied the thread for archiving. Hope it works :?
Anyway, refer to
The Challenge the Sword (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=124904)
and
Swans are Flying Away (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=125938)
for upcoming events.

[OOC: Well, still waiting for this to be archived. Some background data there that I don't think I have filed :?
Bah, too lazy to file it for now anyway, especially since I'm off in 90 minutes. Bologna, here I come! :D
The archive request can be found here. (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=2799259#2799259) :P ]