The YoungWorld

Fort Europe · Posted: Fri Oct 21, 2011 9:33 am Post subject:

The library was a quiet place, even quieter than the rest of the castle, which seemed somewhat difficult. In one corner with only a candle for light, Ambassador Hurde sat reading. He had been for quite some time, having only spent time adjusting his clothing after the meal before making his way to the appointed room for the planned night cap. He was entirely alone, except for the shelves of books which lined every wall, and the one in his hand. The Ambassador was reading a novel of the romantic sort, a Scrivneri classic that he had read twice before at home in the Commonwealth. Now though, he had found an original copy and a first edition at that.

The library, he considered, was far too large. It echoed every movement he made, and was all together too cold and clean. He preferred libraries to feel old, musty and well used with tiny corners to hide away in and loose oneself in a good book. Like the castle around it, this place was too new. He could not blame it, for it had only just been built, but he still didn't care much for it. The castle its self was new, the paint barely dry and the stonework clean and untouched by the elements. It was also, like the library, far too big. The corridors were wide, the ceilings high and the overall atmosphere it created was cold and unwelcoming.

The castle was however, very grand. There were plenty of ornamental decorations, some beautiful stone and wood emplacements, carvings and the like. Much of it had clearly been saved from the ancient city of Aeterinia, or brought in from other parts of Scrivneria, but it still didn't feel homely. The story in his hand gave a quite detailed impression of how the city looked and felt several hundred years earlier, as the two star crossed lovers enacted their well known tragic tale of love. The Ambassador wished that he could have seen the city back then.

He was disturbed ten minutes prior to the alloted time of gathering for the night cap by a familiar face. Amy Sanders stood in the doorway, dressed far less formally than she had been before in a long, low cut white silk dress which hung from her shoulders loosely and unfitted around the waist. She glanced around the room, smiled and entered, taking a seat close to the Ambassador. He closed his book and put it to one side, admiring the fine woman beside him, her long natural hair and apparent youthful beauty even for one her age. Amy's distant Elven bloodline was barely noticeable, so far removed she was from it, her true age the only real clue. Amy had been born during the reign of the great Marcus Shezz, the Commonwealth's first great leader, and she had served under them all, first as a soldier, and then as an adviser, and yet she didn't look a day over forty.
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scrivneria · Posted: Sun Oct 23, 2011 5:53 pm Post subject:

Prince Matthias walked through the door and saw the Ambassador and the much mentioned Ms. Sanders waiting at the main reading table. He begins to feel a bit of confusion at the absence of his father as the clock continues to chime toward the 11:00 hour.

Just then, the wall behind the fireplace began to shimmer, and then the fireplace itself began to waver as well. For the briefest of moments, a room is seen, it is crowded with books, relatively small, and has a variety of stuffed armchairs for people to comfortably rest on. Kaiser Matthias, in his less formal simple black and silver steps through the glimmering light where the wall was a moment ago. "I'm afraid that the new library is not quite up to muster. I much prefer for special guests to come to my personal study which is located in a alternate dimension and has not been subject to the...unpleasantness that my castle has suffered of late. If you would be so kind as to step through the light, beverages and a light repast await you. I promise that the crossing feels no different than a brief exposrue to rain. Matthias, if you would stay here a few moments and ensure any further guests are able to reach us?"

The prince nods and gestures the Commonwealth delegates toward the light.
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With my seal and blessing -Scrivneria, Grand Master

Fort Europe · Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2011 10:20 am Post subject:

In the presence of the bright light which filled the room, time it's self appeared to slow, seconds felt like hours and even the world around it moved at a snails pace. There was a very surreal atmousphere created in the room, the Kaiser having disappeared into the light so that only his voice could be heard returning from the other side. The Ambassador closed his book and stood up, nodded politely to the prince and walked towards the light eminating from where a bare wall was once visible. The light clearly orginated from another place, another world according to the Kaiser, another dimention. He was sure he could see more bookshelves beyond, grand leather chairs and a small fire burning in the hearth of a fireplace. It looked very welcoming.

"Ambassador, wait." Amy Sanders called as he moved towards the light. "I am not sure we should go there. Alternate dimentions are extremely unpredictable, and very dangerous. I had thought they were all closed off. There is no telling what we will find on the other side, nor if we would ever be able to get back." She turned to the Prince. "I mean no offence to you or your Father of course, but even this rebuilt palace stands testiment to the horrors that can be unleashed by meddling with other dimentions."

"Nonsence." He replied, with a laugh. "I am sure the Kaiser would not presume to take us anywhere where we would be in danger. Our nations are on the verge of creating a historic alliance here, an alliance which could bring a new era of prosperity to the YoungWorld. We have a chance here to show we trust his word." With that he stepped into the light and vanished.

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Sorry for the slow reply... I've been without internet for the last month or so... I will be more active again from now on!
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scrivneria · Posted: Fri Nov 25, 2011 11:25 pm Post subject:

"Rufus, it's good to see you cross over without hesitating" Matthias says with a slight smile tugging the corner of his mouth. "I managed to save this much at least of my old library, but I'm afraid some of the precious and irreplaceable volumes were lost. Still, I find this remnant of the original Scrivneri palace much more comfortable than either of the ones I've been forced to build. Would you care for a cup of Ambrosia?" Matthias nods toward a beverage decanter holding a significant amount of amber colored fluid, his own half-consumed glass on a corner table nearby.

On the other side of the light...

"Well it's not so much another dimension as it is a bit of....space....between places." The prince attempts to explain. "You see, many mages discovered that anyone with sufficient control of their magic could summon a personal pocket between dimensions that is a stable safehaven for themself and only themself to enter. The first Wizard documented to have successfully worked out all the components and calculations was a fellow named Mordenkainen, already famous for his ethereal blade, faithful watchdog, and ghostly servant spells. I believe he discovered the safehaven before the magnificent mansion, but anyway, please rest assured that father's little pocket has been stable and keep guard of some of our most valuable treasures and friends since before I was born." He says this last with a slight smile since depending on Mrs. Sanders' level of skepticism she might or might not believe the gravity of that statement.
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With my seal and blessing -Scrivneria, Grand Master

Fort Europe · Posted: Mon Nov 28, 2011 3:05 pm Post subject:

"Thats alright, I think I will wait here." Amy replied. She hadn't lived for so long, and through so many wars without learning how to spot a trap. It was highly probably that the Ambassador would be fine on the other side of this rift, but then he was used to Scrivneri ways, and was of use to them in many ways. As the head of Commonwealth Intelligence, Amy was however, little more than a thorn in their side... an annoyance, and one that could do them a great injury if not carefuly watched.

On the other side, Ambassador Hurde sat down. He politely declined the offer of alcohol, but asked if a mug of hot chocolate was available. He complimented the Kaiser on the fine meal they had enjoyed, and then on the spendour of his rebuilt castle.

"I do hope tomorrows talks reach a satisfactory conclusion for all conserned. It really would be a massive step towards peace and stability in the YoungWorld if our two great nations could work together." He said.
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scrivneria · Posted: Mon Nov 28, 2011 9:29 pm Post subject:

"alas, i had hoped by dismissing the bulk of the delegation and retiring to my private library we could actually speak as humans instead of the usual Offical Head of State chicanery. I am certain our two nations have much to offer one another in terms of mutual prosperity, etc. Etc." Matthias' voice loses its usual musical quality and becomes a monotone after the word chicanery, reflecting the great sense of pointlessness he feels at the personal gesture. "If you step back through the portal drinking chocolate will be easily arranged. I'm afraid this cozy pocket of mine has only what is brought along and i gave no thought to non-alcoholic beverages with the Lady retired already to bed. Please feel free to confer with your Head of Intelligence as long as you need in the library, but i believe my son and I shall retire for the evening" he states in clear dismissal.

Rising from his chair, he takes his glass of the yellow liquor around a corner and selects a particularly large book.
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With my seal and blessing -Scrivneria, Grand Master

Fort Europe · Posted: Tue Nov 29, 2011 10:08 am Post subject:

"Forgive me your highness, I meant no offense." The Ambassador replied, suddenly taken aback. He stood. "A good night to you Sir."

Passing back into reality, he frowned. It was a great honour to be alone with the Kaiser at any time, not least in his private library, and the Ambassador found that the occasion had overwhelmed him somewhat. Indeed, he considered, it was only natural when out of ones comfort zone to be nervous, and when so, it was only logical to stick to familier topics of conversation. On reflection, he wasn't at all sure that he had done anything wrong.

"I fear that your father is in a bad mood this evening." He said to the Prince as he regained his sences back on the correct side of the rift. "I believe I shall turn in for the night." He bowed politely to the prince, then headed for the exit. In turn, Amy bowed also and followed the Ambassador out.

Some way down the deserted corridor towards their accomodation, Amy fell into step becide him. They walked on in silence for several moments before he said. "That was most disagreeable."

"Indeed." The intelligence chief replied, a certain gravity to her word.

"I think it will be far more difficult to get the a result tomorrow than we were hoping for."
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scrivneria · Posted: Tue Nov 29, 2011 2:43 pm Post subject:

The prince steps through the portal slightly alarmed after the Ambassador's quick exit. He finds his father slumped over in an overstuffed chair in a particularly shadowy corner of the dimly lit library idly staring at a history of Matthias IX.

"Father, you only break out the penance stories of Matthias IX when you're feeling particularly defeated. How could a nightcap that lasted less than 10 minutes bring you so low?"

"They don't trust me son. Out of the entire Youngworld, one nation responded to a friendly invitation to help us bring joy and laughter to our new palace. One nation with an old and venerable ruling family. I find instead of Michelle, who has capably ruled through turmoil and is capable of understanding my own difficult decisions, that I am faced with a milquetoast group of politicos who have likely never held the business end of a weapon outside of a sparring match, and a lovely girl who is now supposed to be a ruler suddenly because her mother is being declared officially dead.
Of course it will benefit both nations if we establish at minimum a cultural exchange between our two nations, but I had dearly hoped to have an adult conversation with a fellow ruler this weekend. Perhaps about something other than "fostering relations" or "our great nations." I swear people seem to think I have no interests beyond "being the Kaiser" or "promoting Scrivneria." A I not a man after 250 years rule?
But more than that son. I had dearly hoped that I could be trusted within my dominion to provide safety, and to not be suspected of such base activities as trapping people in an alternate dimension on the pretense of creating better terms for myself in a negotiation."

The Prince listened to his father rail, knowing that one day he would be Emperor, and treated with great respect, but likely have no room to be a person any longer himself.

"Father, it seems we both have reason to need a proper drink tonight. We have this fine Ambrosia. How about a proper nightcap while we discuss the difficulties of post-tonal music?"

"Ugh, a beastly realm of music. But, if we are discussing its difficulties, I suppose that will be fine."

The two stayed up until the wee hours merrily discussing music and drinking ambrosia, finding their spirits significantly lifted, even if they had no company to share those happy moments with.
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Kyle met James in his Hospitality office.

"Well?"

"I'm told that the nightcap was a right disaster. The Ambassador refused alcohol, Ms. Sanders refused to enter the study portal, and the Kaiser cancelled the evening chat."

"Oh god, someone refused entry to his sanctum? I'll have to hear at least one lecture on how the heathen world's lack of magickal understanding will be the end of true civilisation" Kyle groans as he pinches between his eyebrows. "Still, what else do we know today?"

"Everyone seemed pleased with dinner, and of course, the talks tomorrow promise to be full of possiblities. What we don't know is the level of offense the Commonwealth dignitaries took to their quick dismissal."

"No matter, have we any idea what manner of drink the Ambassador requested before his dismissal?"

"Indeed not, there were no staff in the sanctum. You know how the Kaiser gets about having privacy in there."

"All too well. It being late, them needing sleep, and not trusting us. Please send some warm milk with separate jars for honey and spices to both Ambassador Hurde and Ms. Sanders. To be completely safe from suspicions, ensure the honey is pure, and that the flavoring herbs are not only separate, but have no medicinal qualities. I want no accusations of drugging in the morning after this debacle."

"Of course sir."

James relays the message to the hall runner at once who relays it to the kitchens who set to the task immediately.
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With my seal and blessing -Scrivneria, Grand Master

Fort Europe · Posted: Wed Nov 30, 2011 1:19 pm Post subject:

When Esmeralda Rigolo woke it took her a moment to adjust to where she was. She found that this was a common problem when sleeping away from her own bed. Opening her eyes she found that Ria was already awake. Her friend and serving maid was sat cross legged upon the end of the bed, not yet clothed but reading from a tablet computer. Esme crawled out from under the covers, and walked to the window. Sliding between the tall hanging curtains, she was initially dazzled by the bright sunlight outside. It was a good view from the window, which was at least three floors up, and stretched over the city towards the sea. She felt hands wrap around her, and Ria's chin upon her shoulder. There was a knock at the door.

Ria answered it, and Sebastian Eves entered, a tablet of his own in one hand.

"Oh good, you are up." He said, poking his head around the doorway and looking at Esme. "It would be best if you dress as quickly as possible Ma'am, I don't think these Scrivneri would apreciate seeing so..." Esme nodded, and Ria disappeared into the bathroom. "You should know there was a, erm, incident last night. Rufus will give you the latest at the briefing this morning, which is in half an hour by the way." He left.

A few minutes later Sebastian visited the Ambassador. He found him not in his own room but in that of Amy Sanders, the room next door. The two were setting up for the briefing. Sebastian had not been there more than a moment when there was a knock on the door behind him. He opened it, thanked the visitor and took hold of a small tray.

"Curious." He said, "Milk and a jar of honey for both of yoy, courtesy of the young Prince. And some strange spices in jars."

"Why send honey without toast?" Amy replied, looking at the tray as it was placed on a sideboard.

"Hush." Rufus said, cutting off Sebastian's reply. "I am sure Prince Matthias means well, here it is traditional to take honey with milk to sweeten the taste. Please send him our thanks." He took the glass of milk, added about a spoon full of honey and a sprinkling of the spices. Sebastian nodded and left with his errand.

Thirty minutes later, in the room designated to Amy Sanders, almost the entire delegation were stood around the bed. Those missing were the four security personnel who were stood guard outside, and Tom Farns the translator, who's presence had been entirely unnecessary so far. He had been included in the delegation in case other nations attended the celebrations in the rebuilt Scrivneri capital. There had been none, which was the first topic of the briefing.

"It is indeed very disappointing." Ambassador Hurde said, "And the Scrivneri are feeling it most. The Kaiser has taken it as a personal insult to himself, while others seem to believe that it a prejedice against the nation's use of majic, something which is no longer common place in The YoungWorld."

"Talking of insults," Walter Tristan piped up from the foot of the bed. "It appears that the Kaiser has taken certain actions at last night's organised night cap in the library very bad..."

"Yes, I am sure we are all aware of what happened." Amy Sanders cut in. "The question is, how to we resolve this situation?"

The room decended into a small din as several suggestions were presented at the same time. The General eventually calling for order.

"I will make a formal apology to his Imperial Majesty." Esme eventually said.

"Very well, can we move on with the agenda?" Sebastian asked from his table where he minuting the meeting.
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scrivneria · Posted: Sat Dec 03, 2011 4:30 pm Post subject:

In a meeting room in the Palace's Eastern Wing, Kaiser Matthias, Prince Matthias, The Council of Five, and Kyle Ravel are in a meeting.

"What do you have to gain from this alliance?" Brunheimer asks. "The leader we know is gone, and apart from her regal bearing and charm we know nothing of this slip of a girl who is to be their leader now."

"Do not forget how young I was when I took the throne" the Kaiser interjects. "I realize I overreacted to some decorous and polite behavior last night, if anything, my age is a sometime hindrance at this point. If we may help another nation stand strong through a transition, and gain any form of official friendliness with one of The YoungWorld's few truly active nations - there is little to be discussed."

The Prince nods, the Council of Five nods, and Kyle takes a note in his small book. Then the Kaiser addresses the Council again"

"Today will be approached with the utmost formality, therefore, the Council will sit in the talks, and present me with what is worked out between you and the delegation from . If myself and the Lady Esmeralda are in agreement, all will be signed and formalized. In dictate to our ancient traditions, a period of five days will be allowed for all things to be smoothed out. At the end of which time, either the Lady and I shall have signed, or no treaty or alliance may be created formally between our nations for a year and a day. Kyle, please advise the Lady that if she wishes, she may submit her ideas through her delegation and spend the time of the talks in whatever fashion she chooses. "

With bows all around, the Council and Kyle go to prepare.
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With my seal and blessing -Scrivneria, Grand Master

Fort Europe · Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2011 2:46 pm Post subject:

The main conference hall in the Scrivneri palace was almost identical in appearence to the dining hall of the night before. It was a similar size, with high celings and was equally well decorated with aniquated ornimentation and tapestries. This room however, was far more formal and set up for any major political situation that may arise. The table was a massive, solid octagonal affair. Eight high backed chairs lined each of the eight sides. There was a vast array of technology, which was almost non existant in the rest of the castle, with conferencing equipment, monitors and information displays as well as headsets and translation equipment.

The hall could clearly cater for far more people than just the two modest delegations, and had been set up in expectation of more nations attending. Therefore, the Commonwealth's diplomatic party looked somewhat out of place as they took their seats around the side of the table marked out for them. Each seat had an individual name tag. Esme and the Ambassador sat in the centre of the group, with General Tristan and Amy Sanders on Esme's right. Sebastian and Ria stood attentively behind Esme's chair. The Commonwealth's delegation were early however, and they talked quietly amongst themselves as they waited for the Kaiser and his people to arrive. Their seats were located at the head of the table, directly opposite, where the Scrivneri flag was hung above the Kaiser's chair.
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scrivneria · Posted: Tue Jan 10, 2012 4:23 am Post subject:

The Scrivneri delegation walks in, resplendent in their most absolutely formal attire. The First Knight in a full suit of plate mail, which while accented with gold in several places, and quite obviously tailored to its wearer, is also meant for battle. Bernheimer is wearing his incredibly heavy full cowled black cloak of office and silver eagle breatplate as Chief Justice of Hadrir, The High Roller of Tymora is wearing a finely cut suit of blue wool accented with tasteful bits of gold and a very noticeable golden coin around his neck. The First Singer of Terpsichore enters in a dramatic splash suit of crimson with an emerald green shirt and a gold stole. Coming in last of the Council of Five is the High Wizard of Mystram who wears the plain, unmarked black robes denoting a an incredible power and control.

When the five were in their places they indicated the Palace guard should move into position. When they were stationed around the doors, a herald came forward and said: in the name of His Imperial Majesty Matthias XVII, his representatives come forward to treat with the Great Commonwealth Nation of Fort Europe in order to forge the friendliest of relations. To that end, in addition to the traditional council of five, the Scrivnerian Delegate to the Commonwealth, Mr. Timothy MacGregor. *enters the room and stand to the left of the Imperial chair* Scrivneria's Master of the Revels and Imperial Correspondant Kyle Ravel *enters the room and stands one chair to the right of the Imperial Chair* and His Sovreign Majesty the Crown Prince Matthias the Eighteenth. *enters the room and ascends the Dais with a nod to all parties seemingly at once.*

Making direct eye contact with Esme he begins the proceedings by saying "in the midst of all this formality, my father thought it might be best if the future relations of our nations were decided by the people who would be around to see the most of it. I hope you don't feel slighted to have only me instead of him in the chair today." While the remark is formally addressed to the room, the prince's intention to speak directly to his counterpart is quite clear.

Gesturing for all to be seated, Matthias takes his chair last.
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With my seal and blessing -Scrivneria, Grand Master

Fort Europe · Posted: Tue Jan 10, 2012 10:26 pm Post subject:

The Commonwealth delegation all stood as the Scrivneri took their seats, a mark of respect for their hosts. They had not been kept waiting long, for which Amy for one was eternally grateful. When everyone was finally in, the delegation sat, at least all except the Ambassador.

"Not at all," Ambassador Hurde replied to the Prince, "What makes sense to His Imperial Highness, makes sense to us also. I hope you will convey to him our sincere apologies for last night, and our appreciation for the splendid entertainment provided. It seems that all the travelling, the magnificent meal and the fine wines had gotten the best of us in the end."

Finished, he sat down. All eyes turned to the Prince, as they waited for his permission to begin the proceedings. It had been pre-arranged that as the hosts the Scrivneri delegation would give their statement of intention first, which would include a list of proposals, demands and so on. The Commonwealth delegation would then read their statement, and this would be followed by a point by point negotiation, until both sides could come to a compromise.

Standing behind the rest of the delegation Amy had a good view of the proceedings. She knew there was one item on the list of demands that would be made by the Commonwealth which would definitely not be agreed upon by Scrivneria. The Commonwealth were willing to compromise on the issue, but only to a limit, and she wondered just how far the Scrivneri would budge.
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scrivneria · Posted: Wed Jan 11, 2012 2:20 am Post subject:

Perhaps it was his youth, or relative lack of experience in these matter, but Matthias was already itching to leave the room. He looks to Kyle and Timothy who produce papers for him, and Kyle leans over. "Majesty, Amy Sanders is standing behind their delegation on the other side of the room. She is my considerably less visible counterpart from the Commonwealth. The consistency of her appearance at the highest levels of this visit tells me they're after something. Be on your guard, and whatever you do, keep the cold blood of a Scrivneri in battle until you are out of this room."

Matthias blinks three times. He considers this checking of his reaction to the surprising news and a very subtle motion compared to the jaw-drop that he nearly executed on instinct. Compared to the nearly perfectly expressionless face of Kyle Ravel, and the rest of the Scrivneri delegation - it was practically screaming.

"Well then, let us begin shall we?" he says shrugging off the momentary reaction and gathering the assembled papers in front of himself.

"Scrivneria wishes to enter the formal arrange of entente cordiale with the Great Commonwealth, and in so doing promote bonds of friendship. To that end we are prepated to participate in cultural exchanges of cultural persons such as musicians and theater actors, and scholars. We would also be interested in civic exchanges whereby various leaders from both nations could spend time abroad to better learn the histories and structures that we might learn from one another.

It is the express desire of His Majesty the Emperor that Scrivneria and the Commonwealth establish routes of trade in order that what we lack you may provide to us and vice-versa for the mutual better living and increased prosperity of both nations."

Matthias reaches the bottom of the relatively brief documentation that his father and the Council had put together based on the previous days' observation, and once again blinks rapidly before continuing.

"It is the agreement of the entire Council furthermore, that any persons from the Commonwealth wishing further study of the magickal arts are quite welcome to do so in Scrivneria.

For reasons of formality it must be stated that Scrivneria does not seek to enter full Alliance with the Commonwealth. Our enemies shall remain such until such time as they have proven otherwise, as is also the case for those nations with whom friendly relations are maintained. That said, the friends of our people have no business quarreling with one another, and Seiner Imperialistisches Majestaet wishes forthwith to be of service in arbitrating any grievances between Fort Europe and any other friends of Scrivneria. This offer is made free of obligation, and with assurances that Scrivneria does not intend any ill-will or malice of forethought toward the Commonwealth should these overtures of friendship be rejected in whole or in part.

As witnesses to the legality of this document, the Council of Five, Master of The Revels, Commonwealth Envoy, and Crown Prince do so stand and salute our intended friends of the Commonwealth Government."

On cue, the Prince and the Scrivnerian delegation rises and bows to the assembled Commonwealth delegation, with the prince adding a quick quarter-bow toward Lady Esmeralda accompanied by a flourish of Silver Light from his right hand.

Kyle once more leans over to his long-time friend and whispers "nicely done. Now we see what they have to say. Do please stop blinking like an idiot."

Matthias turns his head toward his friend and ever-so-slightly nods.
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With my seal and blessing -Scrivneria, Grand Master

Fort Europe · Posted: Wed Jan 11, 2012 12:17 pm Post subject:

The conference hall in which they sat was well lit, far better than the dining hall of the night before. The room was also slightly smaller, more intimate and reasonably crowded with both delegations sat around the table. Even so, Esme felt quite alone. The Commonwealth Council members around her each had their own tasks, their own duties and loyalties. The Ambassador knew what was required of him here, and even Captain Sanders had her place in the room. They had all been kind to her, perfectly respectful, but the difference they showed towards her was to her position, or rather her Mother's position. Were they treating her this way because of her age, or was it because the law stated that she would soon become the next Great Leader of The Commonwealth?

Esme listened closely to the Prince's speach, her hands folded neatly in her lap as she sat in the way she had always been taught, back straight and her head held up so as to give no impression at all of slouching. When the Prince had finished and had consulted briefly with his associates, Ambassador Hurde stood. As he began with the usual, and very well written introduction of titles, ranks and positions in order of importance with all due respectful compliments, Esme found that her gaze had not shifted.

She had been watching the Prince across the table from the moment he had entered, but this had been because his position deserved her attention. She had payed attention to him while he was speaking too, but this had been out of respect for the speaker and nothing more. Or was there more? It was a phyisical effort to take her eyes off him, she found. And when she did manage it, she felt awkward and uncomfortable, even embarrased, as though she had been caught doing something wrong. It had been the same the night before too, but she had thought that to be because of all the wine she had drunk, and to be fair, he was sat directly opposite her. Now there was more space, and plenty more people to look at, but somehow the Prince stood out.

"Firstly the Commonwealth proposes," Ambassador Hurde began, once all the formal bits had been concluded, "that an open trade between our respective nations be created for the trade of local produce and technology in the manner that you have already mentioned. However, we request that this trade be conducted at a mutually reduced rate of import and export taxation, moderated of course to the ecconomic climate. The Commonwealth's restriction however, is that no weapons, munitions or weapon delivery systems and equipment may be included in any future trade between our nations.

Secondly, we agree that an exchange program of artisans, academics and scholars would be mutually benificial to the growth of our nations. The Commonwealth would also like to suggest a the creation of exchange programs for language students of all levels.

Our third point, refers to a request from The Commonwealth Science Foundation who have a desire to study the nature of the Majik that is to be found in Scrivneria for the purpose of developing a greater understanding into the world in which the Goddess has allowed us to live. Our scientists also believe that a greater understanding of this Majik may lead to the development of new technologies that could aid both our nations and many other nations around The YoungWorld.

Finally, as part of this entente cordiale between our great nations, The Commonwealth would like assurances that Scrivneria, as the recently designated head of the Knights Guild, will work to reduce the oppressive regime of the Knights Guild that has been at the forefront of its domination of The YoungWorld in the past, and aid in the global fight against oppression and unjust regimes in independent nations throughout The YoungWorld. Furthermore, If Scrivneria can not provide these assurances on behalf of the Knights Guild, we request that Scrivneria step down from their position as the head of the Guild."

The Ambassador stood a moment longer, thanked the Scrivneri for listening to the Commonwealth's proposals, thanked them again for their hospitality, and spoke of his desire for any negotiation to reach a satisfactory conclusion for the benifit of both nations. Meanwhile, Esme wondered if she had a crush on the Prince.
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