NationStates Jolt Archive

The Empire offers a full and unconditional apology to the member states of the Triumvirate of Yut on accounts of the percieved original insult delivered to them during our effort earlier in the year to restart relations with the organisation of that name. We assume that all following insults are to be 'lumped together' with the original preceding one.

We will, if asked, provide an explanation for those actions; however, we feel it would be counter-productive to offer that explanation as part of a full apology - as it may be percieved as an excuse.

The Empire also ends all imposed bans on Yut traffic through EOTED space and airspace.

~ Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II, speaking on behalf of the joint decision of Imperial House, Citizens House, the Imperial Economic Court, and the Executive Council to issue a full and unconditional apology to the Triumvirate of Yut

We applaud this initiative by the empire, and hope that it will work to increase peace and stability in the NS world. The government of Knootoss also hopes that this attempt at reconciliaton will be picked up by the Triumvirate of Yut

~Hans van Mierlo
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Dutch Democratic Republic of Knootoss

I have placed into motion an initiative in the Ministry of Trade to place the Empire of the Eternal Dawn in the category of "non-hostile" neighbours. This would allow for free and unhampered trade and business between private organizations within The SLAGLands--a liberty afforded to all nations with whom The SLAGLands shares a state of diplomatic normalcy.

I hope this conveys sufficiently our response to this apology.

http://207.44.246.95/40/9/upload/p3448.gif
Bonne Gregor Westerburg
Prime Minister
The Emerald Heights of The SLAGLands

In response to the gracious and noble acceptance of our apology by The SLAGLands, the Empire upgrades The SLAGLands trade status with the Empire from 'Blocked' to 'Restricted' (in other words, allowing only the trade of 'non-sensitive' goods with The SLAGLands) pending examination of trade potentials and risks by the IEC. The IEC is expected to issue advice within the week to HMI Government to restore The SLAGLands to its previous trade status (MFN).

The Empire extends its praise and thanks to The SLAGLands for both their rapid response to our apology and their gracious move towards the restoration of normal trade.

~ Ambassador Ingrati

Sucking up to the Triumvirate, eh? And we thought you were c00l, but now we find you kissing their hands again. Do not become the ToY's slave. Heed our word.

-Drunken Quimby

Sucking up to the Triumverate, eh? And we thought you were c00l, but now we find you kissing their hands again. Do not become the ToY's slave. Heed our word.

-Drunken Quimby

We are nobody's slave, little one, and do not take kindly to the suggestion that we are. Nor do we particuarly desire to appear... 'c00l', as you put it.

What you call 'sucking up' is indeed merely an attempt at normalization of relations - and, with all due respect, your 'word' does not appear worth heeding, as your understanding of the situation appears incomplete.

~ Junior Ambassador Elrahm, Aide to Ambassador Ingrati

As an impartial observer from another region, I would like to call attention to the egregious spelling errors in Ma-Tek's original post. Of course, I myself am innocent of any and all spelling erorrs.

Chrrrassst-Speaker-to-Animals
Colony of the Kzinti
:evil:

The United Socialist States of Lietuveska praise the EOTED for its progressively peaceful action in this situation. The USSL has now officially placed the EOTED in 'Trade-Worthy' under our international database of countries.

Negotiations and peace are always of the essence. Also, it takes real, true strength to apologize, and Lietuveska commends the EOTED for doing such.

http://home.earthlink.net/~chipcomp/mfa.jpg
Home and country, liberated shall we stay.

Sucking up to the Triumverate, eh? And we thought you were c00l, but now we find you kissing their hands again. Do not become the ToY's slave. Heed our word.

-Drunken Quimby

We are nobody's slave, little one, and do not take kindly to the suggestion that we are. Nor do we particuarly desire to appear... 'c00l', as you put it.

What you call 'sucking up' is indeed merely an attempt at normalization of relations - and, with all due respect, your 'word' does not appear worth heeding, as your understanding of the situation appears incomplete.

~ Junior Ambassador Elrahm, Aide to Ambassador Ingrati

Then you have lost our respect for you. Entirely. But, our opinion does not matter... imbeciles never seem to care for what the wise have to say -- the wise, of course, being Americans (Springfielders to be exact) such as ourselves.

-Sober(ish) Quimby

The degrading attacks exerted by Simpsons Springfield are ridiculous and pathetic. Such a nation devoted towards the degradation of peace and prosperity surely deserves whatever beating it gets. Simpsons Springfield should realize that the wisdom exerted by the EOTED is a little sugar everyone could use in their cereal bowl.

http://home.earthlink.net/~chipcomp/mfa.jpg
Home and country, liberated shall we stay.

We are both impressed and intrigued by this recent change of heart by the Empire, and of course, accept such an apology for such unfortunate misunderstandings in our past. In a world full of varying races and cultures, the opportunity for such runs somewhat high.

The Dominion recognizes the end of the embargo, and sees it for the olive branch that it is. Though we cannot speak for our allies, we at least are interested in further discussion, as it has been offered, being curious as to the events that resulted in such a falling out. Such talk would of course be more effective in a face to face capacity, or at least via visual-audio communications, given the lack of proper conveyance of intent the written word oftimes exhibits.

In closing, we also offer our apologies for insults percieved on our behalf, wishing to start things afresh in the spirit with which the Empire's missive has been delivered.

With regard,

--Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion



Nathicana read back over her handwritten letter, idly tapping the end of her pen against her lips.

Is this the right move? Economically, it is never a good idea to limit oneself ... our cheese exports and fine wines no doubt would appeal to their aesthetic tastes, being rather highly sought after in the international community ... but the trust. Maledizione, the trust. Still, it isn't as though they are asking for a military alliance, nor an alliance of any sort as yet.

She pondered, her brow furrowing.

I have no idea what the others are going to think of this. Then again, I've seldom let that be a guide for my actions. Both alliances value sovereign rights, and neither have been prone to much meddling in private affairs. I've yet to hear one word from the Trium about my actions during the uprising, and I know for a fact Scolopendra was able to get information out ... I'm certain of it. Image is everything? Take what actions you must, so long as the international community does not see? An interesting yet convenient mindset, if I do say so myself. Recent actions on their behalf has only served to link them closer, put them in a more favorable position for any neccesary maneuvering, given their agreement concerning Iraqstan, and the acceptance of Treznor into the alliance ...

Carefully folding the cream colored parchment with patient neatness, she placed it in the awaiting envelope, using a candle to dribble a rich, red wax over the flap, then pressing in the official seal of the Dominion, seldom used, but appropriate in this situation, she thought.

So many plots and schemes ... so many irons in the fire all the time. I've been doing it so long, sometimes I don't even realize I'm doing it. Still, nothing I've done has yet betrayed my alliances. Not really. She sighed, her brow furrowed as she stared at the envelope in her hands.

Well, the situation on Mars could have gone better. Siri is most likely going to want my head for that one. I had my reasons ... and at the time, they were good. Dammitall, why can't these things ever be easy?

"Gianni, I've a package," she called out, handing him the envelope when the young man appeared. "This is to be hand delivered to Empress Rialla ux-Rihad of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn, or as close to her as our emissaries are able to get. Now that the embargo has been lifted, passage to EOTED will be open. Take all care, understood? And send one of our most courteous envoys. These are a people who value tradition and propriety."

"Understood, my Lady," he said, bowing. Taking the envelope, he quickly left the room, already making the appropriate calls.

Nathicana remained at her desk, quietly reaching for the pitcher of ice water that he had left earlier, and pouring herself a glass. Sipping it slowly, she stared out the window, looking out across the bay, lost in her thoughts.

The degrading attacks exerted by Simpsons Springfield are ridiculous and pathetic. Such a nation devoted towards the degradation of peace and prosperity surely deserves whatever beating it gets. Simpsons Springfield should realize that the wisdom exerted by the EOTED is a little sugar everyone could use in their cereal bowl.

You've been brainwashed by the liberal community that you engross your nation within. Peace is overrated. Hell, we remember what happened when world peace was briefly accomplished due to the wish of a local schoolgirl, Lisa Simpson. You know what happened? Aliens invaded the Earth! Luckily, the wish was overidden by the wish of their neighbor, Ned Flanders. By opening ourselves to global peace, we open ourselves to an extraterrastrial invasion! Would you like to be enslaved by man-eating aliens? Huh? Didn't think so! We'll see who's pathetic then.

-Quimby

The USSL has right assumed that Simpsons Springfield is full of maniacs. You assumption that we are brainwashed is absolutely insane. We are not the ones acting out a television show.

All transmissions from the nation of Simpsons Springfield are now being ignored. In short, diplomatic contact severed.

http://home.earthlink.net/~chipcomp/mfa.jpg
Home and country, liberated shall we stay.

<OOC: Actually we are Springfield (and maniacs too)... we're not acting... by those standards I could say that all these elf nations were acting out Lord of the Rings...>

ooc: why don't the two of you take your arguments elsewhere and leave the thread for those it was intended for, hmm? It's frankly getting a tad silly. I fail to see where SS has any concern in this whatsoever. If all you can spout is rhetoric, ridiculousness, and insults, you add nothing to the discussion.

ooc: why don't the two of you take your arguments elsewhere and leave the thread for those it was intended for, hmm? It's frankly getting a tad silly. I fail to see where SS has any concern in this whatsoever. If all you can spout is rhetoric, ridiculousness, and insults, you add nothing to the discussion.

<OOC: we're opposed to this apology... that's where our position is. we are trying to convince EOTED to become its true self and continue to do what it had been doing during the time of its cut relations with the ToY, etc. doesn't help though when your leader is drunk now, does it?>

Sucking up to the Triumverate, eh? And we thought you were c00l, but now we find you kissing their hands again. Do not become the ToY's slave. Heed our word.

-Drunken Quimby

We are nobody's slave, little one, and do not take kindly to the suggestion that we are. Nor do we particuarly desire to appear... 'c00l', as you put it.

What you call 'sucking up' is indeed merely an attempt at normalization of relations - and, with all due respect, your 'word' does not appear worth heeding, as your understanding of the situation appears incomplete.

~ Junior Ambassador Elrahm, Aide to Ambassador Ingrati

Then you have lost our respect for you. Entirely. But, our opinion does not matter... imbeciles never seem to care for what the wise have to say -- the wise, of course, being Americans (Springfielders to be exact) such as ourselves.

-Sober(ish) Quimby

You bother us, children. Do run along.

~ High Lord Commodore Ax-randiri Rihad, UCINC IDF

We are both impressed and intrigued by this recent change of heart by the Empire, and of course, accept such an apology for such unfortunate misunderstandings in our past. In a world full of varying races and cultures, the opportunity for such runs somewhat high.

The Dominion recognizes the end of the embargo, and sees it for the olive branch that it is. Though we cannot speak for our allies, we at least are interested in further discussion, as it has been offered, being curious as to the events that resulted in such a falling out. Such talk would of course be more effective in a face to face capacity, or at least via visual-audio communications, given the lack of proper conveyance of intent the written word oftimes exhibits.

In closing, we also offer our apologies for insults percieved on our behalf, wishing to start things afresh in the spirit with which the Empire's missive has been delivered.

With regard,

--Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion



Nathicana read back over her handwritten letter, idly tapping the end of her pen against her lips.

Is this the right move? Economically, it is never a good idea to limit oneself ... our cheese exports and fine wines no doubt would appeal to their aesthetic tastes, being rather highly sought after in the international community ... but the trust. Maledizione, the trust. Still, it isn't as though they are asking for a military alliance, nor an alliance of any sort as yet.

She pondered, her brow furrowing.

I have no idea what the others are going to think of this. Then again, I've seldom let that be a guide for my actions. Both alliances value sovereign rights, and neither have been prone to much meddling in private affairs. I've yet to hear one word from the Trium about my actions during the uprising, and I know for a fact Scolopendra was able to get information out ... I'm certain of it. Image is everything? Take what actions you must, so long as the international community does not see? An interesting yet convenient mindset, if I do say so myself. Recent actions on their behalf has only served to link them closer, put them in a more favorable position for any neccesary maneuvering, given their agreement concerning Iraqstan, and the acceptance of Treznor into the alliance ...

Carefully folding the cream colored parchment with patient neatness, she placed it in the awaiting envelope, using a candle to dribble a rich, red wax over the flap, then pressing in the official seal of the Dominion, seldom used, but appropriate in this situation, she thought.

So many plots and schemes ... so many irons in the fire all the time. I've been doing it so long, sometimes I don't even realize I'm doing it. Still, nothing I've done has yet betrayed my alliances. Not really. She sighed, her brow furrowed as she stared at the envelope in her hands.

Well, the situation on Mars could have gone better. Siri is most likely going to want my head for that one. I had my reasons ... and at the time, they were good. Dammitall, why can't these things ever be easy?

"Gianni, I've a package," she called out, handing him the envelope when the young man appeared. "This is to be hand delivered to Empress rialla ux-Rihad of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn, or as close to her as our emissaries are able to get. Now that the embargo has been lifted, passage to EOTED will be open. Take all care, understood? And send one of our most courteous envoys. These are a people who value tradition and propriety."

"Understood, my Lady," he said, bowing. Taking the envelope, he quickly left the room, already making the appropriate calls.

Nathicana remained at her desk, quietly reaching for the pitcher of ice water that he had left earlier, and pouring herself a glass. Sipping it slowly, she stared out the window, looking out across the bay, lost in her thoughts.

Rialla had, to a certain extent, pondered the subject of response from the numerous nations of the Triumvirate.

And she had consulted statisticians on the subject. They had gone over previous methods of communication, styles of communication, and such, and come to the decided conclusion that there was a high probability that at least one response would be hand-delivered.

And so the IPG had been told to allow entrance to the Palace itself, should such an oppurtunity arrive. Of course, Rialla would have warning, and would have time to take... precautions. Such as, for example, coating her entire body with a form of silicate plastic (including special filters surgically implanted some time ago inside her nostrils and inside her throat - the insertion process was most uncomfortable, but necessary when one is potentially the target of hatred). She actually wore the 'sheathe' whenever out in public - the IPG wouldn't allow otherwise, considering the old favourite method of assasination had been poisoning, generally through the skin.

And, just to be extra safe, she would wear a PBD - the high-energy form. Very energy consuming, and not available for public consumption or even use among the military, the PBD (Personal Barrier Device) would prevent kinetic attacks, and, to a certain extent, particulate assault.

Of course, that was unlikely anyway, what with the lethal arms ban - and Rialla complained bitterly, but the IPG had the final say in security.

In short, she had no choice.

And so, when the emissaries from the Dominion of Nathicana arrived, and were admitted to the Palace via the rear Foreign Entrance (complete with flowing tapestries and overbearing effluence, unlike the rest of the Palace), they were first lead to a waiting room - and Rialla made her preperations.

Once ready, and only once she was ready, they were admitted to the Throne Room. Rialla, seated on the solid platinum Throne that had sat upon the same spot for over a thousand years, was full of smiles - and she looked especially radiant, considering the oh-so-faint glitter of the air around her. <paused>

[OOC: This is briefly <paused>, as I need to ask Nathi some things on IRC before continuing.]

Whatever, EOTED. We were just forewarning you to prevent the Triumvirate from making you their lapdog.

-Quimby

<OOC: I'm out of this thread, not because it's stupid or anything... but because i have no other purpose here. peace>

The United Socialist States of Lietuveska praise the EOTED for its progressively peaceful action in this situation. The USSL has now officially placed the EOTED in 'Trade-Worthy' under our international database of countries.

Negotiations and peace are always of the essence. Also, it takes real, true strength to apologize, and Lietuveska commends the EOTED for doing such.

http://home.earthlink.net/~chipcomp/mfa.jpg
Home and country, liberated shall we stay.

The Empire extends its warmest thanks to the USSL for its support in this matter. If USSL is interested in trade, we would be pleased to open negotiations with a view to improving diplomatic and economic ties accordingly.

~ Ambassador Dejure

We accept your apology in the spirit in which it was offered.

Sakura Kitsuki

-=-

"Well, that's... brief."

Sakura shrugged. "Why say more than you need to?"

"As you like..."

We accept your apology in the spirit in which it was offered.

Sakura Kitsuki
<snip>


Will Ravenspire re-open Deimos space to EOTED traffic, as we have re-opened EOTED Space and airspace to Ravenspire's traffic?

~ Ambassador Dejure

The Emperor receives the message from EOTED. After perusing it for a time, he decides to accept.

"It takes one with a large set to be willing to admit a mistake. Very well. Inform the Orbital Command to scale the threat level of our defense grid down a bit."

"But not too low, we must be cautious and make certain that they are sincere, instead of giving 'lip-service', as those mammals like to call it. And prep me a comm-crystal while you're at it."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[code:1:99b27d04e6]
We have received your message, and find it acceptable. Our defense grid is scaling down, and punitive tariffs have been rescinded on trade.

For now. We will see if there is sincerity, or a trick that awaits us.

Emperor Gorrm
Kargaahl Imperial Complex[/code:1:99b27d04e6]

President Weston was sitting at his desk, and looked outside to the cloudy sky, as night approached. He sighed, and turned back to his desk. He poured the coffee from the pitcher into his mug, enjoying the smell.

Do I want to take on relations with the EOTED? Such a large nation would certainly put us on the world's sights, but what are the risks? Alliances would certainly ask us to join, and so many other factors are there...

He looked back down at the keyboard, wondering whether it was worth it. He then looked up to the screen, and read the message from the EOTED over again. He knew he shouldn't worry too much, but with a population that was on the rise, as well as the lack of military conflict, he was worried about the obvious results of persuing diplomatic relations with a powerful nation. However, if risks weren't taken...

He figured he should call his aide, Mark Veuste, into his office. But Mark was probably getting ready to leave for the night, as next week was vacation. Adrian sighed again, and took a sip of coffee. He figured he should take whatever risks necessary, as good could possibly come from a new-found diplomatic partner.

Hello from President Adrian Weston of the United Socialist States of Lietuveska. I have seen your call for furthering diplomatic and economic relations between our nations, and such an oppurtunity is rare for Lietuvs. We would certainly be honored to have an embassy of the EOTED be placed in our nation, and vice versa. I must warn that the population is very..ah, fickle..and would probably object to every location that you requested. Therefore, I am somewhat embarrassed to say that the plot would have to picked by me, or the Minister of Transportation and Infastructure. Anyway, I am honored that the EOTED would want to further diplomatic relations with our nation, and I intend to order that tariffs be reduced substantially for all EOTED goods. Thank you greatly,

President Adrian Weston
http://www.desiclub.com/bollywood/bollywood_features/bolly_feat_2002/bolly_feat_img_2002/raj_vasudeva.jpg

Looking over the hardcopy diplomatic communique with a puzzled nod, Razak scratches the back of his head. "Read it again."

Diplomatic Officer Magnus Hesche--usually called in to read EOTED messages because of his unintentional but constant smugness--reads it again, this time with proper inflection.

"They're... apologizing?"

Hesche shrugs. "Seems so, sir."

"Well, hell." Razak chuckles. "That doesn't seem to happen often. What do they want?"

"Doesn't... say anything, sir. They may just be mending fences."

"Interesting." Speaker drums his fingers on the table, batwing ears twitching in thought.

"Most of our allies that have responded have been cooly guarded, it seems. A few others may have responded, but more quietly."

Speaker shrugs. "If they apologize, we shall accept it at face value... but not let ourselves be taken advantage of. Clear them for limited consumer-good trade and Non-Inbox status." Speaker nudges the wastepaper box next to his desk with one booted foot, clearly labeled.

"Shall I talk to them, sir?" Hesche looks up from the hardcopy, looking ready to turn and walk out with the order.

"No. They did not use a vipertongue 'diplomat' or Ludicrously Low-Ranking Toilet Wiper to speak to us. I shall return their courtesy in kind." Speaker eyes Razak. "And I will have to teach you about diplomacy."

The silver-haired man chuckles. "Okay... yeah, I didn't do it as smooth as you would've, Speeks. Still, it's funny that a kzin has to teach a human about diplomacy."

"We have adapted." Speaker shrugs. "Now, excuse me."

* - * - *

We accept your apology free of any explanation. We are curious and would appreciate any explanation you decide to give, but that is secondary. I have authorized Executive Unit trade routes to be re-allowed for negotiated amounts of consumer goods and raised the Empire of the Eternal Dawn from N.I. status to a more friendly one.

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/speaker-to-animals.gifSupreme Emperor Speaker-to-Animals
Chief of State
Federated Segments of Scolopendra

* - * - *

"What's this?"

<snip>

Chrrrassst-Speaker-to-Animals
Colony of the Kzinti
:evil:
Hrrrwhaaaaaa?

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/speaker-to-animals.gifSupreme Emperor Speaker-to-Animals
Chief of State
Federated Segments of Scolopendra

"While I have not made much known of our opinion of the situation, I will say that relations with EOTED are currently the same we hold with most other nations. Sunset-EOTED trade is practically non-existant, but they are welcome to compete in our markets."

President Smytheson,
Libertarian Paradise of Sunset,
Triumvirate of Yut

Will Ravenspire re-open Deimos space to EOTED traffic, as we have re-opened EOTED Space and airspace to Ravenspire's traffic?


We will. Although given the lack of trade between the two nations previously, that might be an academic point.

Shyri T'kla
Minister of Trade

"Sure, we would be very much in favour of better relations between Lietuveska and the Empire of the Eternal Dawn. Shared friends are a good thing. In fact, I intend to mention it at the upcoming summit in EOTED"
~Offhand comment by the minister of Economic Affairs during a talkshow on the Elvish economies.

HA.

The High Lord laughs at the EOTED. Perhaps now he will realize that his arrogance is too much for his own good. How is that peice of humble pie?

HA.

The High Lord laughs at the EOTED. Perhaps now he will realize that his arrogance is too much for his own good. How is that peice of humble pie?

Be silent, lapdog of Arda.

~ Ambassador Ingrati

lapdog. My you are such a comical fellow.

--<Transmission Type: Standard Diplomatic Communique>--
-<Sender: International Trade Advisor Spoilsport, FSS>-
-<Destination: EOTED International Trade authorities>-
-<Subject: Reopening of Trade Relations>-

Supreme Emperor Speaker-to-Animals authorized me to formally announce in a communication between our economic trade bureaus that we are opening up trade to you on a limited basis. Based on analysis of our markets and expected optimum trade patterns, we are willing to open up our markets to your designer clothing in return for us selling high-quality crystalline data storage medium to you. Seeing how your merchant space fleet is unfortunately ill-equipped to deal with the potential volume of trade, we have determined that it would also be more cost-effective in the long run (not to mention more efficient) if we used the Scolopendran merchant fleet both ways.

We look forward to further trade with you.

Advisor Ralph Spoilsport
International Trade Section
Federated Segments of Scolopendra

--<End Transmission>--
"I think this should be favorable," Spoilsport grins jovially with a touch of mischief in his eyes as he taps the submit key.

"I certainly hope so," Razak nods with a boyish grin, "I sure did a damn fine job of burning bridges with that whole 'fruit basket' affair. I swear, Speaker is never going to let me take point again after that one."

"Wasn't that Kommetrez's idea, though?"

"Yeah... the ol' kzintosh has just been rather grumbly ever since returning from Um Lizaa. Our antics didn't help any, and he's still rather irate that we can't do anything about our good little Nazi Carlos... not saying that I'm not either, but hey. Grates on his idealism, just like when Jon briefed him about what went down in the Dominion a while back."

"Hrm." Spoilsport leans back into his chair, filling its clean utilitarian lines with his stocky frame. "Demanded by the realism of the time, though... right?"

"It's a fine line we walk, Spoilsport." Razak shrugs and starts walking out of the cubicle farm to his desk by the door to Speaker's office. "Besides, we're only human. We're doing the best we can."

{Public Diplomatic Communications}
x Emperor Gregor Vetinari
o Leaders of EOTED

We accept your appology. We hope that in the future, we will once again be able to have friendlier relations. We will be watching your international relations with interest.

lapdog. My you are such a comical fellow.

But Lord Christopher, surely you would agree you are Melkor's bitch?

John, Earl of Mavera
-voice of yoof in Milantos

<taggity>

lapdog. My you are such a comical fellow.

But Lord Christopher, surely you would agree you are Melkor's bitch?

John, Earl of Mavera
-voice of yoof in Milantos

No, I would not agree. In order to be a bitch, I would

1) Follow what he says to the letter
2) Kiss ass every second.

If you can show me one thread where I either did exactly what he said, or even kissed his ass, than may you prove me wrong. You will find, anything I say fits neither of these categories. I do not understand how I can even be considered a lapdog of the Arda, when I have never been a member, or even to Melkor.

with this I leave the thread.

(and to see what a real lapdog or biotch is, I refer all to this thread
http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=106866&highlight=
You will notice the High Lord never is involved in any of these shinanigans.)

lapdog. My you are such a comical fellow.

Actually, I, Ambassador Ingrati, am a Lady. The breasts are a real giveaway, you understand.

And are you not a GDODAD member? And is GDODAD not an ally of Arda? As GDODAD cannot hope to match the might of Arda, GDODAD is therefore a lapdog of Arda. As you are a member of GDODAD, you are therefore a lapdog of Arda.

It's only logical, lapdog of Arda.

~ Ambassador Ingrati

{Public Diplomatic Communications}
x Emperor Gregor Vetinari
o Leaders of EOTED

We accept your appology. We hope that in the future, we will once again be able to have friendlier relations. We will be watching your international relations with interest.

We are glad to see the acceptance of our apology by the greatly respected Emperor Gregor Vetinari of Cetagenda. May the future crossings of our paths be benificial to all.

~ Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II

If you can show me one thread where I either did exactly what he said, or even kissed his ass, than may you prove me wrong. You will find, anything I say fits neither of these categories. I do not understand how I can even be considered a lapdog of the Arda, when I have never been a member, or even to Melkor.

with this I leave the thread.

On behalf of The SLAGLands, I am... quite confused by the way His Lordship continually refers to international matters as "threads." We are curious as to whether His Lordship considers Time a thickly-woven tapestry, each event on our transium a metaphysical "thread" on that tapestry...

...or if His Lordship is comparing the international scene to some bizarre cosmic Internet forum, in which case I would imagine Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II could hypothetically speak down a stern warning from on high to "stop hijacking this thread."

Either way, lay off the metaphors, eh?


http://invisionfree.com:54/40/9/upload/p1229.jpg
Wololo
Minister of Metaphors That Are a Patch of Black Ice on the Roadway of International Politics
The Emerald Heights of The SLAGLands

We accept your apology free of any explanation. We are curious and would appreciate any explanation you decide to give, but that is secondary. I have authorized Executive Unit trade routes to be re-allowed for negotiated amounts of consumer goods and raised the Empire of the Eternal Dawn from N.I. status to a more friendly one.

Chief of State
Federated Segments of Scolopendra


The explanation for our somewhat erratic recent behaviour is somewhat lengthy and complex, and so I will make an effort to explain.

The time for dishonesty is at an end; truth cannot be bound for all eternity, and so I will give nothing but the complete truth - the full and honest truth which I have borne in silence for so long. And so I shall begin with the beginning; the very beginning.

I, Semír-rándil, am the oldest of my kind.

Several tens of thousands of years ago, my father and a group of other Noldor quite suddenly went through a change in being that my father alone knew the cause of. They became The People, different from the Noldor of Menelmacar, the land in which they had lived for many years. They were then named the Bragoglindaegwaith - that is, 'gleaming-eyed shadow people' - by the Menelmacari; for they were of gleaming eyes and merged with the shadows with great ease.

They were not persecuted, but they no longer felt at ease amongst the Quendi of whom they had once belonged; and so they departed, in silence and secrecy, to find a land which they might name their own.

And so, after journey across sea and land, and led by my sire Ahyanë, they came unto Tumnórë - the Hidden Land. Set upon a plateau amongst a difficult mountain range, they felt secure, and they settled. Many felt ill at ease in this new land; despite being a land of plenty, and despite its splendour - or perhaps because of it - they feared invasion by others. As a now-young race with no chance of survival if death should come to even but a few, they became somewhat paranoid and afraid.

With the Arts, and long toil and a journey of the mind of great discovery, they forged the Rainbow Wall, to defend against invasion by outsiders, and to prevent those whom would steal away from the land and give away their existance to the Outsiders whom they feared so greatly.

I, Semir-randil, was born thirty decades after the arrival of Nenyankind in the Kingdom of Tumnórë. My brother, Randur, preceded my birth by ten decades.

Discontent had already set in at the time of my birth; there were murmourings of a group known as Those Who Wait: a group dedicated to the Long Wait - the Long Wait until Freedom, as they called it. I, and the majority of my kin and kind, were happy in Tumnórë. Yet a minority were not.

To that group did my brother belong, although not openly... at first. Time passed, and, my brother grew jealous of my prowess with sword and pen; and more so at the favouritism my sire so clearly bestowed upon me. Randur was quick to anger and slow to forgive; those qualities did not endear him to my sire, but Randur was Firstborn and would rule when my sire passed out of this world.

But Randur could not wait. Some - very few - of the first three generations of my kind retained the immortality of our predecessors, the Elves. As such, Ahyanë remained King, with no end to his rule in sight. Driven by jealousy and what he believed to be righteous anger, Randur sought a way to bring the land under his control - and to tear down the Rainbow Wall.

One fateful day, Randur discovered an opening in the Wall. And that very night, he went to Those Who Wait, and set it to them that it was the will of Eru that they should leave.

The Guard of Tumnórë - our small military - was charged with preventing such acts. Yet they were not allowed to strike deadly blows; in short, they were powerless. A Kinslaying was to be avoided at all costs: but Randur persuaded his followers that the old beliefs were no longer relevant. The Guard, my father, and the rest of our family - except me - were slain. I was with my love of that day, Yávëtaur. I had finally found the courage to tell her of my love - but it was too late. An arrow struck her breast as we stood at arms length, hands on the cusp of clutching - and I was filled with rage. I fled to safety at first, so that I might take revenge, but when I returned from hiding, The People were gone.

I followed their trail over many many miles, eventually finding them, close to death, in the Wastelands Upon the Lake, not far from what we today refer to as Nenya.

They changed allegiance readily, as they were all but prepared to slay Randur for his poor leadership already - but my word prevented it, and, instead, I banished Randur. If in my sight he was to be found again, I warned him, I would slay him and take revenge for the killing of Yávëtaur. He fled.

Many, many, many years passed, following the arrival of Nenyankind at Aelinenya - Lake Nenya - and, with time, my influence diminished. I watched with dismay as the First Empire, the Empire of the Eternal Flame, rose from the peaceful Kingdom that I had created; I watched with horror as they enacted genocide on the Men of the lands around them; I cried with disgust as they slaughtered and conquered with reckless abandon. Helpless, I stood by; my greatest crime is that I did not speak. I was silent.

Eventually my sorrow and self-pity finally gave way to decisiveness. I took arms, and slowly built up a following; when the First Empire fell, we were ready in part to build on its ashes.

We succeeded, yet with more bloodshed than I had hoped for. I was, and am, sad and regretful that the Dagor Iluvauromen (Battle of the Dawn) that built Dor-Iluvauromen (the Empire of the Eternal Dawn) was not bloodless. Yet I fear there was no other way.

With Si Ling and Bao Ling having been tutored by my hands, lips and eyes, I felt secure that the Empire would flourish peacefully.

To a certain extent, this was true. Yet Si Ling, as I had always known, was quick to anger - and slow to forgive. He was and is a good man, but his failings led to a great many dangers and problems for our kind; and, when, finally, I and others convinced him to step down and allow Rialla to take her place, I think a great many sighed sighs of great relief.

I fell in love with Rialla and she with I; and we wed, as is well-known, at her Coronation, as is traditional.

I had felt secure, safe, and in good spirits.

And yet again, when I felt so safe, the hammer blow came. Power was, in part, wrested from the hands of the Council; an apparently invisible group had a... a 'mole', I believe Humans call it... inside the Council, and a great many more throughout HMI Government.

We were slow to react; and this sluggish reaction allowed a power struggle. We managed, somehow, to maintain a strong outwards appearance; very few indeed knew that anything was amiss, which was at once a good thing and a bad thing: Rialla and I took the blame for the rash decisions of this invisible foe.

And finally, the foe was revealed to be none other than Randur, pulling strings in the background; yet his arrogance in revealing himself was his downfall. He attempted to gain access to a place that he should not have, and, alerted to his presence, I found and killed him - as I had sworn to do. My regret is that I was forced into such a position; but I feel that his repetition of old errors is proof enough of his lack of ability to change. Yet still I am sad.

It is undoubtedly known that the former High Lord of Ma-tek, High Lord Aquinall, was recently executed for High Treason. It was High Lord Aquinall that sat upon the Council, doing Randur's bidding; to this day we do not understand how others came to be swayed, or which others, but they are silent now - and their crimes are forgiven, in any case, so long as they are not repeated. For if we cannot find them, then they clearly are silent; and if they are silent, it may well be that they are repentant but fearing to repent. Mercy is the greatest tribute of any leadership, and so we are striving to be merciful in a manner that the First Empire would never have been capable of being.

And so, to conclude, the recent erratic behaviour of the Empire has been exactly that: erratic. The power struggle resulted in something like the swinging of a pendulem; back and forth the power swept, with the 'good' mixed equally in with the 'bad' - but with the coup attempt thwarted, the Empire may now act in the manner in which it was meant to.

As my mate, beloved Rialla, so swore recently, I do also swear; the Empire will not sway from its path towards promoting stability and peace - but we shall do so peacefully wherever we are capable.

Those of you whom we once called friends, we hope we shall call friends again. And those of you whom we call enemies, we hope to call you friends, someday, when our differences can be reconciled.

All of you, whether friends or enemies, however: we are your friends, when you need us. We will stand with those who require it; we will support those about to fall; we will befriend those without friends; we will give our shoulder to those in grief.

To all sentient life I give this pledge: we are here for you when you need us, and, if the situation merits it... we will be here for you when you do not know that you need us.

I trust this explanation has been useful, and I hope ardently that the Empire will not be the focus point of further recriminations due to actions committed during a brief and undesired period of internal instability.

Let us look to the future.

~ High King the High Lord Commodore and First Minister to the Empress Rialla ux-Rihad, Semir-randil I

To the High King Semir-Randil I:

Thank you. This has brought us to a better understanding of your situation. I would also like to apologize for the actions of my executive officer, and provide an explanation for his actions.

Given the nature of the break in our relations, and the events inbetween, we had drifted apart. We were not conducive to listening. We are also an egalitarian culture; we see titles as an artificial form of elevating one over another when no difference exists. Our history is that of a rebellion against overstuffed business executives who used titles to ensure leadership when they had no actual leadership skills. Thus, what you intended as an honor we perceived as an insult at best and a threat at worst.

We are also an efficient people. When an introductory title is longer than the message itself, we get suspicious. To us, it appears to be an attempt to hide something. If something is needed to be said--in our minds--it should be said. If something is to be hidden then it is couched in distractions.

We should have thought about how the message was intended. We did not because we were predisposed against it. Hopefully, with this better understanding, such a situation will not repeat.

As you say, "let us look to the future."

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/speaker-to-animals.gifSupreme Emperor Speaker-to-Animals
Chief of State
Federated Segments of Scolopendra

* - * - *

Razak scratches the back of his head, looking uncharacteristically abashed. "You didn't need to do that, Speaker... I can apologize for myself."

Speaker stands up slowly, shaking his head. "It is done." Leaning forward slightly on his desk, he makes direct eye contact with the silver-haired man. "Do not make me do it again, ksali-tzobu."

Razak nods quietly. "Yes, ksali-tzobu."

Harsh, yes. But effective.

To the High King Semir-Randil I:

Thank you. This has brought us to a better understanding of your situation. I would also like to apologize for the actions of my executive officer, and provide an explanation for his actions.

Given the nature of the break in our relations, and the events inbetween, we had drifted apart. We were not conducive to listening. We are also an egalitarian culture; we see titles as an artificial form of elevating one over another when no difference exists. Our history is that of a rebellion against overstuffed business executives who used titles to ensure leadership when they had no actual leadership skills. Thus, what you intended as an honor we perceived as an insult at best and a threat at worst.

We are also an efficient people. When an introductory title is longer than the message itself, we get suspicious. To us, it appears to be an attempt to hide something. If something is needed to be said--in our minds--it should be said. If something is to be hidden then it is couched in distractions.

We should have thought about how the message was intended. We did not because we were predisposed against it. Hopefully, with this better understanding, such a situation will not repeat.

As you say, "let us look to the future."

Chief of State
Federated Segments of Scolopendra


Our apologies for the percieved overbearing nature of the incantation of titles that preceded our original message of hope of a return to friendship. As has been observed, it is felt in our culture to be a bestowal of honour to give ones full title when speaking of matters of great gravity; and it is also our tradition to speak as we speak, and strive to understand how 'the other' speaks in return. We prefer to speak as is natural to us, rather than tailor our communications to the methods of others; we feel - and this is somewhat ironic, considering - that it helps to avoid misunderstanding. After all, if we speak in a manner unfamiliar to ourselves, how can we hope to put across our point of view as succintly as we ought? Yet misunderstanding, it would seem, is equally possible either which way.

And we are, in general, an open people. Truth is key in our culture; we have no nudity taboos, as many visitors to the Empire have no doubt observed. Open and honest discourse, we feel, is paramount; and so we bear all frequently, without shyness or fear of reproach: it is a symbol of openness and honesty.

Yet with this new understanding of the differences between our culture and yours, we, too, no doubt, can aid in the occasionally difficult task of being sure that misunderstanding does not ruin what may well prove to be profitable and mutually benificial relations.

To a future of better understanding I look, friends.

~ High King Semir-randil I

To the future, then; your explanation is satisfactory, and the embargo is ended. We look forward to hearing from EOTED in the near future on re-establishing relations on a bilateral basis.

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

Siri: This doesn't change much, of course.

Serindë: I know, milady. The Nenyan government will blow this... what, 0.00003% increase in unemployment? Vastly out of proportion. It's pretty pathetic, really. It hardly matters; they are but one customer-nation of thousands.

Turelio: I don't think there'll be another alliance, but as the Prefect of Trade stated, CENNA showed us this particular ally was more trouble than it was worth. All in all, the explanation was more or less satisfactory but Semir and Rialla, being who they are, aren't going to be much different now anyway. Their apology was almost certainly lip service, and the response was little more.

Siri: Agreed. An aggressive economic re-expansion into EOTED would probably be money-losing, but we weren't making much on trade with them to begin with. Best to simply consider that account closed, for now.

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/sirithil/sirithilnosfeanor.gifLady Sirithil nos Fëanor
Elentári of the Eternal Noldorin Empire of Menelmacar
Regent of Lavenrunz
"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!

To the future, then; your explanation is satisfactory, and the embargo is ended. We look forward to hearing from EOTED in the near future on re-establishing relations on a bilateral basis.

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

Siri: This doesn't change much, of course.

Serindë: I know, milady. The Nenyan government will blow this... what, 0.00003% increase in unemployment? Vastly out of proportion. It's pretty pathetic, really. It hardly matters; they are but one customer-nation of thousands.

Turelio: I don't think there'll be another alliance, but as the Prefect of Trade stated, CENNA showed us this particular ally was more trouble than it was worth. All in all, the explanation was more or less satisfactory but Semir and Rialla, being who they are, aren't going to be much different now anyway. Their apology was almost certainly lip service, and the response was little more.

Siri: Agreed. An aggressive economic re-expansion into EOTED would probably be money-losing, but we weren't making much on trade with them to begin with. Best to simply consider that account closed, for now.

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/sirithil/sirithilnosfeanor.gifLady Sirithil nos Fëanor
Elentári of the Eternal Noldorin Empire of Menelmacar
Regent of Lavenrunz
"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!

{Encrypted Diplomatic-Protocol Transmission}

The Empire would be glad to re-establish bilateral relations. However, things might be a little difficult. Anti-Menelmacari sentiment has grown somewhat due to the net loss the economy suffered when Menelmacar blocked trade. However, we should be able to handle the situation here; the population is unlikely to be incensed by an effort to rebuild relations. One can never be too certain, however: trust is diminished.

I ask that the underlying voice-data packet be seen by Lady Sirithil and Lady Sirithil alone; it is for her eyes only.

{Underlying Voice-Data Packet: EYES ONLY}

*The speech is in rapid-fire and elegant Quenya.*

"My father, Ahyanë, I fear to tell, has passed unto the Doom of Men; yet he sends unto thee this measure of tribute: Thee, Lady, art beyond beauty measured; his heart to thee did long belong, and for days lost did he mourn. Thou knew his heart nor him not; yet he knew thee from afar, and often did he desire to speak with thee; and he bids mineself, Semir-randil, his heir in spirit but not in deed, to speak such words unto thee as come unto mine mind. I know not what to say for mineself as yet, but mine land on the border of thine is ever at thy side, by the wish of Ahyanë, He Who Was Once Your Loyal Subject."

{End of Packet}

~ High King Semir-randil I
{Transmission Ends}

The Serene^Union, after consideration of your sincerity and previous actions, have elected to accept your apology, though we feel no significant harm to ourselves has come about as a result, we do feel that the bonds of friendship can be instrumental in continuing peace and prosperity. Whislt we do not hand you this friendship, we give you a stepping stone on which to build.


Serenity be with you.


http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2003-12/561524/Galadriel_Sig.jpg Melyanna en' tel' Isilme
Ooma a' tel' Quessir [Voice to the Elves]
The Most Serene Union Of Kaenei (http://www.nationstates.net/cgi-bin/index.cgi/page=display_nation/nation=kaenei)

Bartolomeo Albertini and Stefania Cirese looked around with an air of expectation and professionalism. They did indeed take note of the oppulence of the halls and the richness of the decor, but had the good taste not to all too much attention to it. The ways of foreigners, as always, were to be taken in stride whenever possible. Both were clothed in their dress uniforms, the red piping and rich gold buttons showing nicely against the deep black material.

During their wait, they said little, and always in hushed tones in their native language, speaking merely of the trip over, and the lavishness of the halls thus far. When directed, they rose, bowed respectfully to their guide. Both sets of eyes widened somewhat, with Bartolomeo staring with his jaw somewhat slack until Stefania nudged him in thr ribs. Clearing his throat, he spoke.

"To Her Imperial August High Majesty the Empress of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn, High Queen of the Imperial Dawn City of Ma-Nenya, Queen of the Imperial Dawn State of Ma-tek, Queen of the Imperial Dawn State of Ax-turath, Queen of the Sol Orbital Colony of Vilya Elenosto and the Associated Colonies;

the Supreme Commander of the Imperial Defence Forces, Chief Advisor to the Intelligence Division of the Imperial Defence Forces Peacekeeping Division;

the Spiritual Leader of the Empire, CEO of the Imperial Trade Conglomerate, Mayoress of Nenya, Eternal Friend and International Representative of the Sovereign Royal Kingdom of Tumnorë, Lady of Tek, Lady of Turath, Lady of Ahm-shar, Lady of Lower Ria, Sovereign of the Combined Royal Houses of ux-Rihad and Rihad, Beloved Representative of the People of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn, Her Mercy, Rialla ux-Rihad II, does Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion, send greeting." Here both emmissaries bow deeply.

"It is her desire that we should deliver this letter to your hand, in response to your most gracious and recent missive concerning relations between our respective peoples."

Stefania steps forward but one pace, bows again, and holds forth the handwritten letter, the rich red wax seal yet unbroken. "If I may be permitted to approach, your Highness?" she asks, "or if you prefer one of your people to bring it to you?"

{ITC Unencrypted Communique #419917}
{FROM: Imperial Trade Conglomerate, External Relations Division Spokesperson Imrahni'l}
{TO: International Trade Section, Federated Segments of Scolopendra}
{SUBJECT: RE: Reopening of Trade Relations}

Greetings,

In a word: Yes. We too, you see, prefer efficiency. However...

In order to allow the transfer of the data crystals mentioned in the preceding missive, the Empire will need to upgrade Scolopendra's trade status to MFN. Unfortunately, 'Restricted' trade status entails a block on all 'sensitive' equipment (both ways). However, Imperial Economic Court Ruling #8 (DY1) allows an upgrade of trade status in order to allow 'critical goods' to pass from a previously 'Restricted' trading partner without a full vote on the matter by the Executive Council.

Therefore, I am pleased to announce that, following an ITC Board of Control vote today, Scolopendra now enjoys MFN status with the Empire - albeit on a temporary basis, pending a vote of the Executive Council in two month's time.

With this in mind, the ITC is pleased to offer Scolopendran merchant ships a permanent waiver of so-called 'entrance tax'. As Scolopendran merchant ships will be responsible for transporting goods both ways, we feel it would be something of a poor show by ourselves to charge them for the privelige of delivering goods that we require as well as for transporting goods that Scolopendra desires.

In short: the Imperial Trade Conglomerate is and will continue to be honoured to commence and continue trade with Scolopendra.

With hope for the future,
<signature here>
Spokesperson Imrahni'l

{Underlying Data Packet}

A final note: all external merchant vessels are required to land at the Imperial Space Networking Co-Operative Spaceport, Nenya. It is preferable that all vessels landing at IsnCo Spaceport utilize the preferred microwave guidance system; if said craft do not have microwave guidance capacity, the required equipment can be purchased on the ground for future trips. Finally, the Spaceport is considered 'neutral territory' under Imperial Law (although it is indeed EOTED territory), and, as such, the lethal arms ban does not apply. As such, the ITC Security Forces enforce all other laws in the area; the carrying of arms is not prohibited. Finally, the Spaceport is home to the Combat Zone, and, that area can be somewhat rowdy. Although the carrying of arms is frowned upon in general, and the Security Forces are most efficient, we nontheless advise the carrying of arms in the CZ for safety purposes.

~ IsnCo Regulatory Body, IsnCo Spaceport Authority

{End of Packet}
{Transmission Terminates}
"So, that's the response?" Razak grins broadly.

"Yep." Spoilsport types up a quick thank-you response. "Who knows, maybe they'll put clothes back in style again or something."

"I hope, for their sake, that their designs have big pockets."

Bartolomeo Albertini and Stefania Cirese looked around with an air of expectation and professionalism. They did indeed take note of the oppulence of the halls and the richness of the decor, but had the good taste not to all too much attention to it. The ways of foreigners, as always, were to be taken in stride whenever possible. Both were clothed in their dress uniforms, the red piping and rich gold buttons showing nicely against the deep black material.

During their wait, they said little, and always in hushed tones in their native language, speaking merely of the trip over, and the lavishness of the halls thus far. When directed, they rose, bowed respectfully to their guide. Both sets of eyes widened somewhat, with Bartolomeo staring with his jaw somewhat slack until Stefania nudged him in thr ribs. Clearing his throat, he spoke.

"To Her Imperial August High Majesty the Empress of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn, High Queen of the Imperial Dawn City of Ma-Nenya, Queen of the Imperial Dawn State of Ma-tek, Queen of the Imperial Dawn State of Ax-turath, Queen of the Sol Orbital Colony of Vilya Elenosto and the Associated Colonies;

the Supreme Commander of the Imperial Defence Forces, Chief Advisor to the Intelligence Division of the Imperial Defence Forces Peacekeeping Division;

the Spiritual Leader of the Empire, CEO of the Imperial Trade Conglomerate, Mayoress of Nenya, Eternal Friend and International Representative of the Sovereign Royal Kingdom of Tumnorë, Lady of Tek, Lady of Turath, Lady of Ahm-shar, Lady of Lower Ria, Sovereign of the Combined Royal Houses of ux-Rihad and Rihad, Beloved Representative of the People of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn, Her Mercy, Rialla ux-Rihad II, does Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion, send greeting." Here both emmissaries bow deeply.

"It is her desire that we should deliver this letter to your hand, in response to your most gracious and recent missive concerning relations between our respective peoples."

Stefania steps forward but one pace, bows again, and holds forth the handwritten letter, the rich red wax seal yet unbroken. "If I may be permitted to approach, your Highness?" she asks, "or if you prefer one of your people to bring it to you?"

Rialla waved back the heavily-armoured Imperial Palace Guard officer who stood at the right of her heavy platinum throne with a flick of a wrist; the officer grunts, returning to his stiff posture; arms down, he lowers his eyes once again. And then he just does not move. No blinking, no movement... the man might as well be a statue. The emmisaries probably do not know it, but they are one of only a few who have ever seen an IPG officer in full gear.

The body armour looks impressive alone; it looks heavy, thick, and gives the impression of impenetrability, although it is far from that. Arm-mounted microwave pulse blasters - tiny little things - are hooked onto the wrists of the suit, and a pair of E-pistols rest at his hips. The armour itself covers all but his face, and even that would be covered were it not for Rialla's personal request that he show his face. The armour is jet-black, with a very faint white motif etched into it; it's not clear enough to see what the design is. The emissaries cannot see them, but there are no less than six other IPG officers present. This one and this one alone is visible, again at the insistence of Rialla.

The Throne Room is perhaps not what might be expected; it is somewhat bare, with only one tapestry (an image of Rialla and Semir-randil, holding hands in a gentle embrace with a shimmering lake behind them, and three stars in the blue sky above blazing brightly) and a rather plush light blue thick-pile carpet. The halls through which the emissaries have been lead are specifically for use by foreigners; the vast majority of the Palace is bare of such opulence, for it is generally felt that such things are bad for the spirit.

And very few indeed but Nenyankind have stepped inside the Throne Room, in all the years it has existed.

Rialla speaks softly. "Very well remembered, friends. I am impressed that you have taken the time to know our custom in greeting with the full Incantation of Titles. - Please, come, approach..."

She frowns, pausing midsentence.

"I'm sorry, but I don't know your names...?"

She lets the question hang in the air, a smile returning to her face. Semir-randil is nowhere to be seen; if he is present, he is choosing not to be visible.

"Stefania Cirese and Bartolomeo Albertini, both in the service of the Dominion Ministry of Public Relations, under Minister Evangelista Ravanelli, my Lady," Stefania replies with another bow. "I apologize for not having introduced ourselves earlier, as we are but humble envoys here on behalf of our own Lady. Our names seemed hardly important at the time. As for the Titles, the Dread Lady insisted. She regrets that her own brief title seems to not repay the honor in kind, her own customs being somewhat different."

Her eyes flicker towards the guard, though her expression never changes. Bartolomeo, for his part, holds his place, though his eyes stay riveted on those before him - Stefania, Rialla, and the guard - as he listens for any hints of trouble. The change in settings has been noted by both, and each have drawn their own private conclusions, neither aware of the rarity of this occasion, knowing only their continued breathing depends entirely on their behaviour - and not on account of the leader before them.

The young woman slowly steps forward, the hand holding the letter outstretched, her other firmly at her side, palm open and facing forward. She bows again when she reaches Rialla, judging the distance precisely to come no nearer than needed, yet able to hand the letter to the Empress without the need for her to lean forward to retrieve it. At all times she keeps her bearing both professional, and as unthreatening as possible, showing no outward fear.

"Stefania Cirese and Bartolomeo Albertini, both in the service of the Dominion Ministry of Public Relations, under Minister Evangelista Ravanelli, my Lady," Stefania replies with another bow. "I apologize for not having introduced ourselves earlier, as we are but humble envoys here on behalf of our own Lady. Our names seemed hardly important at the time. As for the Titles, the Dread Lady insisted. She regrets that her own brief title seems to not repay the honor in kind, her own customs being somewhat different."

Her eyes flicker towards the guard, though her expression never changes. Bartolomeo, for his part, holds his place, though his eyes stay riveted on those before him - Stefania, Rialla, and the guard - as he listens for any hints of trouble. The change in settings has been noted by both, and each have drawn their own private conclusions, neither aware of the rarity of this occasion, knowing only their continued breathing depends entirely on their behaviour - and not on account of the leader before them.

The young woman slowly steps forward, the hand holding the letter outstretched, her other firmly at her side, palm open and facing forward. She bows again when she reaches Rialla, judging the distance precisely to come no nearer than needed, yet able to hand the letter to the Empress without the need for her to lean forward to retrieve it. At all times she keeps her bearing both professional, and as unthreatening as possible, showing no outward fear.

Rialla continues to smile as she retrieves the letter, placing it in her lap - for now. "Well, one cannot expect customs to be universally constant. We are a rather traditionalist people... our traditions have remained essentially the same for a great many years. - But please, excuse my long-winded nature. It is rare indeed to have visitors; a rare pleasure, I must say. - Now, then. I must ask; you have been treated with every according comfort and respect, I trust?"

She shoots a meaningful glance at the IPG officer, who grunts quietly.

Stefania, having delivered the letter, backs up to stand next to Bartolomeo again, with a respectful bow.

"Yes, your Majesty, we have indeed. And it is a pleasure to be able to converse with you - please, no apologies," he responds, with Stefania soon following. "We are honored to have been recieved so, especially considering the unfortunate estrangement our nations have fallen into."

If either take note of the guard's reaction, neither register it, standing proud yet unthreatening, both smiling pleasantly.

Stefania, having delivered the letter, backs up to stand next to Bartolomeo again, with a respectful bow.

"Yes, your Majesty, we have indeed. And it is a pleasure to be able to converse with you - please, no apologies," he responds, with Stefania soon following. "We are honored to have been recieved so, especially considering the unfortunate estrangement our nations have fallen into."

If either take note of the guard's reaction, neither register it, standing proud yet unthreatening, both smiling pleasantly.

Rialla smiles warmly. "We Nenyans pride ourselves on our hospitality," she notes quietly, "and, as such..."

She raises a hand, flicking a single finger outwards. Immediately, a tall Nenyan walks through...

...the western-facing wall. The wall appears to shimmer slightly as the woman walks through it; she carries what look like three suitcases. Without a word, she lays two of the cases on the ground before Rialla, and the other at the side of Rialla's throne - without any deferential actions whatsoever - and walks back through the wall again.

Rialla motions to the cases. "Please accept these gifts for the service you have each rendered by bearing this message. The two before you are for you personally; the third I will give to you before you leave: that is a personal gift from myself to the Lady Nathicana, as a symbol of my hope that our two cultures may find ourselves more closely acquainted again in the future. I remember fondly the words of my father when he returned from his visit to your land; he spoke very well of the Lady Nathicana in particular."

The two cases each hold unique items; both are daggers - a rare gift indeed, considering that such items are not particuarly liked in the Empire. But not all cultures hold that aversion to the shorter blades. Both daggers are ornately carved, and each has a single emerald set into the hilt. They are both, of course, absolutely perfectly balanced - the craftsmanship is second to none, as both items were forged by the Imperial Armourer. Both have golden blades and silver hilts, and the carvings on the hilts are fairly complex geometric patterns.

When the cases are opened, and the daggers viewed, Rialla comments, "The patterns on the blades are meant to symbolize the infinite complexities of the Universe."

Both envoys shift their eyes with a look of clear surprise, first at the wall, then again at the offering of gifts. At first, rather speechless, they look on the oppulent gift of finely-crafted daggers. Each glance at the other, brows quirking in silent question.

Bartolomeo is the first to speak. "Most gracious Lady Rialla, if I may be so bold - your generousity is only outshone by your stunning beauty. We did not come for gifts, and would it not be an insult to yourself and your nation, I would refuse such a grand offering, as I have done nothing deserving of such an honor."

"Indeed, your Majesty," Stefania continued. "We have brought nothing but a letter, and yet you send us back bearing gifts ... we are unused to such generousity, and as Bartolomeo said, quite unworthy of such gifts."

Both retained a tight control over the hunger that rose in each, looking over the rich daggers - a price any leader in the Dominion would be proud to hold, let alone simple Ministry envoys, high in esteem though they were. Such a display would not only be unseemly, but would be wholely inappropriate for the circumstances. Their training held true, despite the internal musings of each.

"We thank you, Empress Rialla," Bartolomeo said, both giving a sharp Dominion-style salute, then bowing formally. "We shall treasure these fine gifts, and relay your kind words on behalf of our Lady upon our return. I am certain they will be well recieved, as will the generous gift."

What on earth ... such gifts! Il dio, what does she mean by it? Is this a test? Perhaps a message ... Certainly nothing ill, but why so generous? What is it she wants? Such thoughts and others ran like wildfire through the minds of both as they quietly weighed and measured, and ran back over all the words of the conversation thus far that they could recall - surprisingly quite a bit - looking for hidden meanings, clues, hints as to intent. Dominion born and bred, trust was not something that came easily, however rich the wrapping.

Both envoys shift their eyes with a look of clear surprise, first at the wall, then again at the offering of gifts. At first, rather speechless, they look on the oppulent gift of finely-crafted daggers. Each glance at the other, brows quirking in silent question.

Bartolomeo is the first to speak. "Most gracious Lady Rialla, if I may be so bold - your generousity is only outshone by your stunning beauty. We did not come for gifts, and would it not be an insult to yourself and your nation, I would refuse such a grand offering, as I have done nothing deserving of such an honor."

"Indeed, your Majesty," Stefania continued. "We have brought nothing but a letter, and yet you send us back bearing gifts ... we are unused to such generousity, and as Bartolomeo said, quite unworthy of such gifts."

Both retained a tight control over the hunger that rose in each, looking over the rich daggers - a price any leader in the Dominion would be proud to hold, let alone simple Ministry envoys, high in esteem though they were. Such a display would not only be unseemly, but would be wholely inappropriate for the circumstances. Their training held true, despite the internal musings of each.

"We thank you, Empress Rialla," Bartolomeo said, both giving a sharp Dominion-style salute, then bowing formally. "We shall treasure these fine gifts, and relay your kind words on behalf of our Lady upon our return. I am certain they will be well recieved, as will the generous gift."

What on earth ... such gifts! Il dio, what does she mean by it? Is this a test? Perhaps a message ... Certainly nothing ill, but why so generous? What is it she wants? Such thoughts and others ran like wildfire through the minds of both as they quietly weighed and measured, and ran back over all the words of the conversation thus far that they could recall - surprisingly quite a bit - looking for hidden meanings, clues, hints as to intent. Dominion born and bred, trust was not something that came easily, however rich the wrapping.


Rialla smiles, feeling the reactions to a certain degree; not to any great degree, for a probe would be completely immoral without request, but certain emotions broadcast more loudly than others: and such a contrasting mixture of emotions more loudly than most. The compliment is not lost on her, but she does not comment on it either. "It is our custom and honour to reward those whom bring the most valuable of all resources: the written word. Indeed, we love to give, although it is a rare day indeed that we have had the oppurtunity to show ourselves thus. "

Rialla glances at the still-sealed envelope.

"Well, I think I shall send one of my own Ambassador's to relay my response to this," and Rialla indicates the letter, "as I do believe anything less would be an insult. Do convey my respects to the Lady Nathicana; it has been both my pleasure and comfort to be delivered a missive in such a personal manner. Most pleasing indeed. Perhaps some day I shall be able to convey my regards to the Lady Nathicana in person, rather than through those in my employ and those in hers." She smiles warmly, well aware that the entirety of the conversation will likely be relayed back - at least, as best as the emissaries will recall it.

She does not, however, point out that gifts are traditionally given in diplomatic circumstances in order to distract the other side from what could easily be considered poor wording, or cultural clashes: the giving of gifts is, in truth, designed to put the 'enemy' off-balance. She doesn't say any of this, largely because it fails to occur to her anyway: Rialla truly does enjoy giving - and like any leader, if there are advantages to be had, then all the better.

She does not signal that this is the end of the audience, but the arrival of those whom ushered the guests into the Throne Room does.

The gifts for Nathicana are ones that any lady in the Empire would positively kill for: there is a dagger (similar to those given to the emissaries, but all the more exquisite as befits the difference in rank) resting upon a carefully wrapped item. The item itself, the main gift, is a dress: a dress that is quite tight, and quite revealing (as is the current style in the Empire), but with shimmering colours that respond to mood.

It is a Mood Gown, created by the Imperial Weavers Guild; few indeed of these have ever been made, and it is quite, quite priceless. Very few understand how they work, but it is a very early use of nanotech. Similar to the nanoweave clothes of FSP, this particular gown is designed to respond to its wearer's mood: if one is sad, the colours mute; if one is happy, the ever-moving colours swirl all the more quickly. The gown tends towards blues and golds, but the owner can alter the 'preferred colour dominance' with a small easy-to-use control unit packaged along with the gown.

Jewels, exquisitely cut to perfection by the best lapidery in the Empire, are set into a necklace weaved into the dress itself; each jewel is a real gem, and not a manufactured one, as is commonly found in the stores in the Empire.

The gown itself is not one set shade, no matter the choice of the owner via the control unit, but shifts shade slightly every time it is cleaned; and temperature affects the colour slightly, too. Warm weather makes the gown lighter in colour, so the heat is radiated away from the wearer; cold weather darkens the material, trapping warmth.

A small note rests beneath the dress:


We trust the dress suits your tastes, Lady Nathicana.

With compliments,

Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II and High King Semir-randil I