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| [CLOSED] The Crane and the White Tree; Diplomatic Discsoure between Gondor and Ascarenor | |
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| Topic Started: Jun 3 2016, 04:31 PM (847 Views) | |
| Ascarenor | Jun 3 2016, 04:31 PM Post #1 |
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She sat upon the Phoenix Throne in the Hall of Brilliance, rays of a rising sun lightly illuminating the Hall from the massive glass painted windows depicting scenery from across the Viceroyalty on the eastern wall, if one were to observe closely at this hour – most auspicious for self-contemplation – one could say that the colors seemed to dance across the polished marble floors in grand displays, but an even more keen observer would see only the illusion from the ponds and the trees swaying in the dawn breeze. She wore official court attire, red silken dresses with a black and gold tunic over; a crane – the symbol of wise rule as well as her personal sigil – was embroidered within a square at the center of the outer tunic. Her headdress was of the typical fashion of the Ascari, a severe contrast from the Court dress on the Mainland, her long black hair was fashioned into a rectangular shape and a large ornate golden phoenix hairpin was placed in the middle with many more ornaments of varying degrees. However, he gaze was fixated on the onyx dome above the Throne, almost an extreme contrast to the beautiful dancing colors of the floor beneath. Diamonds, hundreds of them lined the twelve celestial constellations which sparked and shimmered in small, yet spectacular, fashion, each diamond was connected with a line of gold, or ivory, amber, or jade, amethyst, or emerald: each precious material for one of the zodiacs. Her eyes followed the golden lines connecting the stars of the Lion, her birth constellation. Her face would fool even the best behaviorist, she appeared to be enamored by the beautiful artistry of the dome, but her thoughts were completely on another matter. She was Sémarë Atárinë Artúlyanië i Arquentari Aulendiel carte Sareär Aranel Tercenë. She had numerous titles, Viceriene of Ascarenor her newest title to add to her collection.. but her most prestigious was that of being the Eighth Princess to the Ancalimë Empress - peace be upon her - and her Noble Consort (second of four husbands), half-sister to the Most Sublime and August Empress - may She live forever. Sarálindë, her sister was called before her ascension. Before she took the name: Autárimë. 'Prosperous and with Martial Authority' it meant. And with Martial authority. What are her ambitions? Sémarë was not envious of her sister's ascension, she was now herald as the Daughter of Heaven, The August Empress, Lord of Twelve Thousand Years, who ruled absolute and infallibly through the power of the Mandate of Heaven. Even with all this glory, honor, prestige and power the Autárimë Empress no longer governed her own life. Protocol and tradition now dictated the course of her days, augurs declared what the auspices demanded, astrologers told her what she must eat and at what time and how much. For she was the balance and the fate of the Empire now rested upon her immaculate shoulders, as the tutors often told the Princesses and Princes of the Dynasty, “Rituals and regulations are what keep life from springing towards chaos.” No. What troubled Sémarë was the way she was cast out of Imladris. "A great honor to serve the Heavenly Throne. To serve the Empress - may She live forever." They had said when giving her this post to govern in her sister's name. It was. But she was far from the capital. How could she maneuver for her own children when the time came? Her own House, Sareär, was founded after the death of the Empress. She could no longer vie for her yet to be born daughters' position so far from the center of civilization. She was still a threat. Not to the Empress. No. Her claim to the Throne has long since been negated and no general or minister would dare appose Heaven’s Chosen for a usurper. But she had had great clout at Court during her mother’s reign and to stabilize the succession the Autárimë Emperor removed her rivals and enemies from Court. A smart move, Sémarë did not blame her sister for her actions, she knew she would have done the same.. even more, perhaps. Ascarenor. Continents away from the mainland. Yet. Formidable. Its vast resources and endless wealth brought glory and prosperity to the Empire. But in the process Ascarenor suffered. Her wealth sucked dry by the endless needs of the Capital, of the Court, of the Empire. She looked upon the Lion once more. She must find a way to secure Ascarenor’s wealth for herself, yet, make herself indispensable to the Empire. Traitorous thoughts indeed, defying the will of Heaven. Her mind was fixed to that thought. Ascarenor. Strong and powerful. Independent. She almost shuttered. How had that thought entered her mind? Such treasonous thinking... but. Her thoughts remained there. The Empire of Ascarenor. Not a Viceroyalty. And she would be.... Her hand quickly came to her chest. Her heart was pounding. The thought was beyond treason. It was blasphemy. It was unthinkable. But .. but had it not just crossed her mind? Her thoughts were interrupted by the opening of the two large wooden doors gilded in golden prayers of propriety and portents. She stood realizing she was sitting on the Phoenix Throne. The Phoenix Throne! Reserved only for the Empress if she were ever to come to Iscamir. Though, no reigning Arda Tuluvan sovereign has ever come. She took a deep breath and lifted her long, many layered robes and stepped down from the dais, the ornaments of her ornate headdress chimed as she took her place upon her rightful spot: the Tarándur Seat, situated on the second of three platforms. The army of bureaucrats and ministers entered eyes and heads bowed. They came before the daises bowing on hands and knees with their foreheads touching the polished marble floors. "Your humble servants bow before Her Most Serene Highness." They said in perfect unison. The Viceriene flicked her hand ever slightly and a silken, yet firm voice spoke. "You are given leave to stand." It was her ómari, or Voice, who had given the command. He had been standing patiently next to one of the large columns that lined the Hall. "We thank Her Serene Highness for the honor." Lady Ambarturë Lóravarníne, the First Chancellor of the Grand Secretariat, said with another bow of the head, "the hour has arrived, Serene Highness. The Honored Guests from the Kingdom of Gondor have arrived in Iscamir and are now in route to Nénarcassë Palace." Sémarë nodded her head ever so slightly in acknowledgment. She rose from the Viceregal throne causing the assembled army of ministers to bow again as she left the Hall of Brilliance. She would meet King Eldarion at the Meridian Gate; he was, after all a reigning sovereign and therefore the two were counted as equals in status. Had it just been the King’s Steward or any representative she would have awaited them within the Central Hall. The Viceriene waited atop the Merdian Gate and looked out the raised canal traversing the scenery. Iscamir. A city of splendor and water. It was built during the Vildimë Dynasty, who’s element had been water, so in honor of the fallen dynasty the architects and nobles built Iscamir upon a lagoon. The city was a masterpiece of engineering and ingenuity; new techniques had been used to build the dams, dikes, and canals. Hundreds of thousands died and drowned during the hundred years it took to build the old city. It was said that the rivers and canals ran red for a hundred years. But it was a beautiful city. A few miles south the Meridian Gate the the King of Gondor’s plane landed in an airfield reserved souly for the Viceroyalty’s most esteemed guests. King Eldarion was greeted by an honor guard of 1,728 soldiers; 12 centuries of 144 legionaries, a horde of high ranking bureaucrats and ministers among them Deputy Viceroya Vaniai Spanturo, Foreign Minister Elemmírë Querrestalin, Cultural High Minister Ilyanna Celvandilmë, and Haryos Órecalimonin, Minister of Rites. A long red carpet was laid out from the airplane to the large transport that would take the King to the Meridian Gate along the central canal of Iscamir. The scent of a hundred flowers filled the air and soft melodies of song could be heard among the wind. No expense was spared for the arrival of the Viceriene’s most honored guests. As the King of Gondor stepped out of his plane the assembled Guards snapped to attention and the ministers bowed low at the waist. Flower petals fell from the sky as the banners of both Gondor and Ascarenor waved majestically in the wind. |
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| Gondor | Jun 3 2016, 06:17 PM Post #2 |
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As King Eldarion stepped off the plane, he was pleasantly surprised at what he saw. Before him stood a mighty assemblage of both nobility and strength that he had seldom seen before. The red carpet that was lain out for him to walk on seemed soft beneath his feet--like an exquisite bed of velvet. His stormy gray eyes went round about him as he examined the scene, seeing all those who bowed before him. As a gesture of goodwill, he called out to the assembly with his booming voice, "Please, you need not bow before me! It is my honor and pleasure to come before you today to strengthen relations between our two great nations!" As he finished his words of encouragement, his two counterparts exited the aircraft with just as much surprise as he had. Prince Edward, a charming handsome young man of just 26 years of age, was the King's younger brother. He stood well over 6 feet tall and was sinewed with muscle. His sea blue eyes usually captured the hearts of women everywhere (and this was all he seemed to care about at times). He said little as he walked behind his brother, smiling and waving to the crowd. The Steward, however, was a far different story. Johnathan Gray was a rather regal and aloof man, who was only slightly surprised at the pomp and circumstance of their arrival. He had a taste for the finer details of the world, and delighted in indulgence. Gray was an older man in his early 60s who had seen both Eldarion and Edward grow up in the recession of their father's reign, and was glad to see that Eldarion was making Gondor respectable again. He remembered those dark years under Arathorn the Mad, when Gondor had been isolated from the rest of the world. Those had been dreary times, and yet he saw the light. It was a beautiful day, and Eldarion, his prodigy, was putting all he had learned to good use. As Eldarion approached the Viceriene, he bowed at the waist before her, as was custom to do when meeting a foreign Lady. Edward and Johnathan followed suit, making quite the scene at the end of the red carpet. "Thank you, Viceriene Sémarë, for allowing us to come into Ascarenor and be your guests of honor. I see that little expense was spared for our arrival, and you have my utmost gratitude. This land is one of considerable wealth and power--no doubt invaluable to the Viceroyalty I'm sure. Iscamir is a wonderful city, and I can assure you I've never seen a city, save Minas Tirith itself, that was or ever has been built with such masterful taste. I marvel at the Meridian Gate! Even the entrances to this city are beautiful." As they stepped onto the transport and washed along into the central canal, Iscamir came more into view. The levees, dams, dikes, and canals of the city were aged, and yet seemed as if their architecture and design was from a future century. Eldarion had never been to a city built upon a lake, but he liked the calmness of the waters. The water was a blue so rich and deep that he was mesmerized by its flow. Edward and Johnathan still said little, but whispered to one another as they continued to make their way towards the city. "Johnny boy, what do you think of this place?" "Oh my boy, I think little. I'm simply taking the view in." "That's not the view I'd prefer. I'd like something a little more, um, pleasure inducing." "Oh can it Edward, you fool. You can have all the women you want when we get back home!" "But Uncle, elvish women. They are exotic." Edward chuckled Johnathan simply shook his head and payed the young buck no mind. Eldarion was quite mature and he was pleased with the King, but the young Prince? He was a work in progress at best. Eldarion continued to look upon the city and its denizens. He had heard stories as a child growing up in the Halls of Ecthelion of the historical interactions between Gondor and the Arda Tuvalans. The two powers had never been allies, per se, but always had the utmost respect for one another. In the middle ages, when Gondor had been coming into its role as a nation, Arda Tuvalu had been expanding and conquering. Compared to Gondor, the elven empire at that time had been mighty. And even though they had subjugated many other peoples, the elves had never attempted to even send an invasion fleet towards Gondor, though the reason why that was he had never known. The elves were so graceful and peaceful, it seemed. He couldn't even imagine them in battle (though he didn't doubt their prowess). As they neared the docks of Iscamir, he wished to strike up a conversation with his sovereign counterpart. He looked off into the distance, and asked what he had been thinking for some time. "Your empire, historically is one of the most powerful to ever rule Audaxia. Your people have been superior to all their rivals, and yet my people never came into armed conflict with your own. We were but a dot compared to the vastness of your lands. Why was there never an attempt by you and yours to bring us into the fold, especially with your Mandate of Heaven and all? I mean no disrespect of course, but I simply marvel at your nation's power." |
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| Ascarenor | Jun 6 2016, 02:51 PM Post #3 |
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The Viceriene extended her hands out in an elegant gesture with a slight bow of the head in salutations, “Honor and glory unto Your Majesty. May your reign last ten thousand years.” She said in traditional greetings. “It is our esteemed privilege to honor the King of Gondor and invite him and his into Ascarenor. May our two nations enter into a prosperous and peaceful future. One that will last twelve thousand years.” The rest of Arda Tuluvans bowed their heads again, chanted in response, “Twelve thousand years, twelve thousand years, twelve of twelve thousand years.” As they chanted a dozens of doves were released and flew above, an omen of peace and fortune to showcase the Viceroyalty’s hopes with Gondor. The Gondorians, unwittingly perhaps, had showed great honor and the highest of respects by bowing – and at the waist - to the Viceriene. One that any skeptics of the “barbarian” king would note keenly and remember it greatly, to them Eldarion had gained much hén’póna. Sémarë looked upon the King’s brother and noted his handsome features, her gaze lingered longer than she had anticipated but her face remained featureless and stoic, though she felt a slight flutter in her chest and her mind turned to more lascivious thoughts. She noticed his own lustful eyes as the Prince looked upon her ladies and ministers. The Viceriene, the Gondorians, and their respectful entourages entered the beautiful large vessel that was almost as wide as the canal itself and sailed majestically along. Guards lined the paths along the canal and as the large boat watered passed they would snap to attention averting their gaze. The people waved flags and cheered some of the more devout fell to hands and knees as the barge of the Viceriene sailed passed. Sémarë Sareär was, after all, a child of a Celestial Empress and sister to the Daughter of Heaven. In her veins ran the blood of Heaven’s chosen dynasty. Sémarë Sareär stood regally in the upper observation deck where they had all been ushered into. She gestured to a man (who was unmistakably her highest ranked servant) in quick little movements of the hand, which looked slightly odd because of her hand ornaments. On her left hand long fingernail guards covered the entirety of her pinky extending some six inches, the ring finger and her middle finger also had these golden jeweled fingernail guards, though not so long as the last. Her right hand had only two; the pinky and ring finger. Many of the others assembled wore the same fashion, though none had five like her as most had two or three. The rest of her fingers had been painted in henna, a traditional symbol of status in Acarenor. Suxa, ice-cold rum with cane sugar and mint tea, a traditional drink of Iscamir, was soon served along with small treats. The room, like all things Arda Tuluvan, overly ornate filled with colors, intricate designs. The half-moon shaped room was large enough to fit everyone in; the circular part was all windows with the curtains pulled as to allow their guests a view of the city. King Eldarion, who was considered an equal to Lady Sémarë according to Arda Tuluvan social custom, spoke first to the Viceriene asking about the martial power and expansionist policies of ages gone. She took a final drink of the suxa before answering. “I am most flattered by your words, Majesty, but I do not claim this to be my Empire. I am but a servant to She-Who-Sits-Above-All-Thrones.” She made sure to be heard by those around, she knew not if one of the servants was a Lastarin – a listener for the Empress – and with that out of the way, Sémarë continued, “It was the Commandment of Heaven to unify the lands that now are Arda Tuluva. The Grand Consolidation ended five hundred years ago.” The King nodded but she sensed that she did not answer his question fully, not wanting him to continue in ignorance Sémarë decided that to really answer his question she first must explain more of Ascari history. “To understand Ascarenor, Majesty, and our Mandate we must first understand how the Viceroyalty came into being. In the last years of the Cúldarë Dynasty famine and calamity struck the Empire, corruption ran rampant across the land as the people starved and the Court lived in decadence and splendor as the fields dried and burnt in rebellion. As it has been and always will be that when the Emperor no longer adheres to Heaven’s Will then they will lose the Mandate and must be replaced with another who is deserving: the Dynastic Cycle. “The Cúldarë Court fled with their fleets across the world sea and established their Dynasty here in Ascarenor, historically known as the Cúldarë Remnant. When the Vildimë Dynasty rose and brought order and peace to the Empire. The Remanence of the previous dynasty could not, and should not, be allowed to continue to disrupt the natural order of things. Therefore, the Tar-Tuorétehtelë Emperor sent an army across the World Sea to subdue and bring a final end to the Cúldarë Remnant. These lands,” she made a broad gesture then a small one that indicated a blessing or warding of omens, “had already been consecrated by Arda Tuluvan blood and therefore could not be abandoned. A Viceroy was appointed to govern these lands in the name of the Empress. We are curious people by nature and over time we explored and consolidated our power here. “Ascarenor has had its time of trouble and skirmishes with the Khanates of the South or the principalities of the north, but it was not in our nature to start large scale wars. We will defend ourselves with the might and fury that is our heritage, but it is not Heaven’s Will to conquest for the sake of conquest. It took an incredible amount of manpower and resources to complete the Grand Consolidation and unify all the lands the size of Arda Tuluva, Ascarenor could not count on the aid of the Mainland if we were to wage large scale wars across Audaxia. We had our own problems maintain order in lands unknown. But we took our lead from the Consolidation; slow and steady expansion, build infrastructure, assimilate and adapt local cultures, unite the people and once they are Arda Tuluvan, we move onto new territories, thus was our Mandate. Gondor was, and is, an honorable nation and though we have never had official treaties Ascarenor has never seen your Majesty’s Kingdom as an enemy who needed our guiding hand.” Edited by Ascarenor, Jun 10 2016, 02:00 PM.
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| Gondor | Jun 9 2016, 05:50 PM Post #4 |
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OOC: I made some changes to this post, so be sure to read it before you reply. Eldarion smiled and said, "That is very honorable and noble of you to say, Viceriene. Gondor has striven for centuries to be an honorable nation and do what is right in the eyes of the world. I would echo your words to express that Ascarenor is a great and honorable principality in the eyes of our people. It is good to know that your sister rules with such authority and power, peace be upon her." He sipped his suxa and looked out into Iscamir as they came yet closer to their destination. He looked around the upper room that they were in, and was pleased with the lucid colors that permeated across the room with a definitive Ascarenor flavor. He took a bite of a small treat that he had been served before speaking once more. "Your history is incredible. To have such division and yet come out of the whole kerfuffle unified only speaks to the strength of the Empire. Unlike your Dynastic Cycle, Gondor's line of Kings has remained nearly direct since its inception. I am a direct descendant of Elendil and Isildur, and my line has ruled Gondor for millennia. Our people live in relative peace and happiness, though our economy is in need of strengthening. Under the days of my late father, Arathorn the Mad as he was known, he put Gondor into isolationism. He saw the Cold War tensions around the world and felt no need to involve Gondor in all of that. While he may have protected us from war, the economy suffered greatly. The average citizen in Gondor was working odd jobs and ridiculous hours to make end's meet, and to me that is unacceptable. The way that I have proposed to solve this is putting Gondor out into Audaxia for international trade. We already have a trade treaty with Vinitsia and one is currently in the works with United Moreland, but we need a trading partner that is a major power. I believe that Ascarenor could easily fit that role, with our nations having centuries of good relations. I would also seek a non-agression pact with you, Viceriene. Gondor is a peaceful nation and likes to keep the best of relations possible with all nations who are willing to do so. Gondor is going to maintain its policy of military isolationism to ensure that we stay safe in the most troubled times. The West is war-torn, and I feel that the East may soon feel that, one way or the other." Edited by Gondor, Jun 10 2016, 01:03 PM.
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| Ascarenor | Jun 10 2016, 04:01 PM Post #5 |
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Many passed Viceroys took their position lethargically delegating all their responsibilities to the State Council who has the authority to represent Ascarenor’s interests in Audaxia, however only if directed to by the Viceroy who, historically, rarely, if ever, appointed any of their Councilors to travel abroad and form many treaties with their neighbors of the international community. Viceriene Sémarë was not content to live her life carefree in luxury as many of her predecessors chose to do, instead, she would make most her “honored exile” and make Ascarenor an influential state among Audaxia, hence the motto "Ascarénór ortas va rainë" (Ascarenor's peaceful raise). She understood all too well Gondor’s worries, long in isolation created more problems and solved little. King Arathorn, called by many “the Mad”, had created great economic problems for their Kingdom from his foolish policies. Ascarenor had almost suffered the same fate under Viceroy Farendil Sovëacare, whose own decedent and irresponsible spending could have collapsed the Viceroyalty, his early death was sense as an omen of a better future. Luckily, the State Council had persuaded passed Viceroys to allow them to at least conduct economic missions with their neighbors. Ascarenor is vast and rich in many resources, had fertile land and large reservoirs of clean water, the environment pristine and an economy to boast about. Arda Tuluva was still Ascarenor’s number one trading partner, but the Viceriene has hopes to form more lucrative trade with nations such as Gondor. As the Ascari clerics often say, Those who help others, help themselves, and she was determined to help Gondor, to form a stronger friendship. The first of many, she hoped. “Of the many things I wish to discuss with Your Majesty, trade and finance are among the more important details of our possible partnership.” Sémarë remained ever stoic as the King spoke of Gondor’s troubles and hopes; he kept his face forward for a time admiring the view of the Viceroyalty’s prized city. She, however, was admiring another beautiful view: Prince Edward who was next to Steward standing closer to the right most windows pointing at the cityscape discussing matters of some kind. King Eldarion then mentioned a non-aggression pact and the western theatre. “We will endeavor together to maintain peace here in the East as we must not allow the embers of discord from the West to ignite the flames of war. We shall discuss in further detail once we have arrived at the Hall of Mental Cultivation, but I assure you, Your Majesty, like Gondor Ascarenor desires only peace and harmony.” She turned her head and looked at Eldarion straight in the eyes, which among Arda Tuluvans was not only a sign of great respect, but also one of equality; with this simple gesture she gave Eldarion status among the Court in Iscamir. “For harmony creates balance, Majesty, which becomes order that creates peace to form prosperity; for without harmony there is only chaos. And chaos topples dynasties.” They arrived at the northern gate of the Nénarcassë Palace Complex, the Gate of Divine Might. To give a better view of the city they had taken the main canal that transverses the eastern side of Nénarcassë to the northern gate. There they disembarked and were taken to the Hall of Mental Cultivation via a palanquin; which was embroidered with cranes. There were hundreds of soldiers lining the way from the Gate of Divine Might to the Palace of Heavenly Purity and behind them a thousand or more bureaucrats and civil servants awaited the arrival of the honored guest. They stood in perfect formations according to rank, all things done in Arda Tuluva, and therefore in Ascarenor, must follow tradition and, more importantly, protocol. As they passed through the Gate of Divine Might a gong was rung and those assembled in the Vermilion Courtyard kowtowed before the palanquin shouting, “Húmyén, húmyén, húmhúmyéni![1]”. Once they arrived at the Hall of Mental Cultivation and all were settled in their seats; the Viceriene sat at a large ornate desk upon a dais to elevate her above the rest of her ministers who sat to the right of her dias; among them the High Lady Ilmarë Helyanwenyarë , the Imperial Legate who was sent from Arda Tuluva to represent the Throne and the interests of the Mainland. She was dressed in completely different fashion, her hair was not in the typical rectangular design as was the Viceriene’s and many of the Ascari women, but pulled together in intricate interlocking weaves with many ornaments, her robes were more loose and layered. She wore the fashion of the Tercenë Court in Imladris, as opposed to the Ascari fashion. Three other State Councillors were present; the Deputy Viceroy, Vaniai Spanturo, a handsome and hyper-intelligent Lindari man who was born in Ascarenor, he wore the robes traditional of the Lindari; Ambarturë Lóravarníne, Proconsul of the Presidium, a cunning Noldori who came with Sémarë from Imladris; and Fanyárë Eruasémmosinë, an elderly Noldori woman who has great political insight and experience, she is soft spoken and calm woman, but is said to have a fury like a tempest. The king also sat upon a dais across from the Viceriene and his brother and Steward sat to his right across from the Ascari ministers. Once everyone was seated and settled the real conversation on the future relations of the Viceroyalty of Ascarenor and the Kingdom of Gondor begin. [1] Húmyén, húmyén, húmhúmyéni literally means "a thousand centuries, a thousand centuries, a thousand thousand centuries", meaning "long live the Viceriene and the King." |
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| Gondor | Jun 11 2016, 01:37 AM Post #6 |
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As the Viceriene reassured him, Eldarion felt better about the prospects of coming away from Ascarenor with a massive trade deal. He realized that Sémarë was there to help him and his country, and smiled at the thought. As they were transported to the palace complexes, he enjoyed the view even more. Iscamir was the prized city of Ascarenor and he wanted to take it all in. As they came to the Gate of Divine might and traveled the rest of the way to the Palace of Heavenly Purity, he turned his gaze to the embroidered cranes on the palanquin. The crane was the symbol of Ascarenor, as well as the crest of the Viceriene. He loved the White Tree, but the Crane had a grace of its own. As they passed by the denizens of the city, Eldarion, Edward, and Johnathan all waved to the soldiers and smiled, exuding confidence and regalia. As they passed the massive crowd, Edward looked upon the Viceriene. He had seen many beautiful women in his life, but she was more than beautiful. She was exquisite. Perfect. Everything that he had ever imagined in a woman and more. Of course that was to be expected, her being royalty and all. He found himself nearly staring and turned his face away quickly, his cheeks being a rosy red hue. It wasn't long before they entered the Hall of Mental Cultivation, where the negotiations had been scheduled to be held between the two states. The king and his two underlings had been placed upon a dais across from the Viceriene and her entourage of various advisors and other high-ranking officials. Eldarion noticed the presence of some very important woman who sat to the near right of Sémarë. She was dressed like the Viceriene, yet with a slightly less elegant flare. He knew not what purpose she served, but sensed that she would have a part to play in the negotiations. Once the two sides had been seated, Eldarion motioned to Edward, who got up and handed him a prepared speech. Eldarion shuffled the papers on the table in front of him, and cleared his throat. He had a short address for the Tuluvan delegation. He hoped it would spark a salient and succinct discussion between the two nations and start everything off on the right foot.
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| Ascarenor | Jun 13 2016, 03:15 PM Post #7 |
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After the King gave his speech the Ascari ministers nodded approvingly to what Eldarion had said, they waited for the Viceriene to begin the negotiations. “On behalf of the Empress – might she live forever.” The last line was echoed softly by the other Arda Tuluvans, a traditional saying that is always repeated, “We again thank His Majesty for honoring Ascarenor with his visit.” She gestured to the king across her and the other ministers bowed with hands clasped in respect towards King Eldarion. Sémarë Sareär gestured causally to one of the assembled State Councilors to bring forth the next issue of these talks. It was the Imperial Legate, High Lady Ilmarë Helyanwenyarë, who spoke, “Concerning trade, Your Majesty, it must be understood that Arda Tuluva - and by extension Ascarenor - are proponents in the support of fair trade practices, as opposed to the exploitation and greed of free trade that consumes many nations at the expense of millions. We advocate the payment of higher prices to exporters, such as Gondor, as well as improved social and environmental standards and to ensure the protection of Gondor’s workers and to promote greater equity in international trading partnerships through dialogue, transparency, and respect. “It is our obligation to protect and ensure environmental standards, social welfare, and workers’ rights are met and maintained.” She signaled to her aids to bring three thick documents to the King, the Prince, and the Steward, “We have taken the liberty to outline our proposed deal to form a trade pact between Ascarenor and Gondor, the East Audaxia Fair Trade Agreement. It is outlined to include more signatories if other sovereignties wish to join in our trade pact.” The document was quite lengthy, but it showed what Ascarenor wished to trade and what they desired from Gondor. But from the many things that two nations would trade Ascarenor would mainly sell large quantities of foodstuffs, medical supplies and information technologies, and desires to invest large sums of money into the future of Gondor. In turn the Viceroyalty would buy equal shares in fish, precious metals, and gold, among other goods. “We are certain that His Majesty will find our proposal most amicable and suitable for the needs and wants of Gondor.” Helyanwenyarë spoke with flowery words, but her intonations were level and calculated. As the King and his councilors reviewed the trade proposal the Viceriene continued, “Yester evening as I strolled through the Tarwalin Gardens I heard an owl hooting and as I gazed upon it peached on the aracotaulë tree. It did not fly away.” The other Arda Tuluvans nodded pensively at her declaration. Omens and portents were often used in many levels of Arda Tuluvan society; the others would know that the omen indicates great care should be taken, that the next few days would be ones of important decisions. “I am resolved.” The Legate quickly turned her head to the Viceriene, the ornaments in her headdress chimed and she almost gave the Viceriene a cautious look. Mainland Arda Tuluvans were even more superstitious than the Ascari, and by stating that omen and following it quickly with a resolution was a sign of her intent. Of her absolution. She stood from her seat gesturing for the others to remain and slowly descended from her dais, “The King speaks truth. ‘The fires of war are alight in the West.’ And we must stand firm in our resolutions, in our ideals of peace and diplomacy. It is my hope that Ascarenor and Gondor can unite together in a greater alliance. I propose we form a Pact, Majesty, here in East Audaxia. A Pact signed not only with ink but one with blood.” The Arda Tuluvan ministers looked at each other in confusion, and even the Gondorians seemed a bit put off. “A union between Gondor and Ascarenor would ensure stability in the region and ensure our own security. Eldarion Namarien, King of Gondor, I propose we form a Co-Prosperity Sphere an indivisible alliance untied through marriage between your brother, Prince Edward, and myself. As long as our heirs rule Ascarenor, Gondor may forever find an ally in us. This I vow under Heaven and by my hope of salvation and rebirth, that I and my progeny shall uphold this from now until the end of ends.” The Arda Tuluvans gasped in surprise. Semárë Sareär had just made an Unbreakable Oath (one that is rarely ever used, even under some of the greatest of circumstances) to the King of Gondor, one that no Arda Tuluvan has ever broken before. |
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| Gondor | Jun 15 2016, 01:55 AM Post #8 |
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Eldarion, Edward, and Johnathan all exchanged glances after what Sémarë Sareär had just said. Eldarion looked at Edward and then at Sémarë, trying to see where all of the sudden this marriage proposal had come from. He motioned for Johnathan to come closer, and whispered something in his ear. The two men conversed for about a minute, being too quiet for anyone else to hear. The Steward then stood from his seat to speak after being nodded on by Eldarion. Johnathan Gray turned his gaze to Sémarë, having the response to most of what was proposed. "Honorable Viceriene, the king had chosen me to speak on his being this case, believing me to be more articulate of Gondor's response under these circumstances. We have read over the lengthy East Audaxia Fair Trade Agreement and see signing it as a no-brainer. Gondor's economy will blossom under this agreement, and we thank you for being so generous so as to put forth the effort to see this done. On the subject of your other proposal, Eldarion has some reservations. While we admire your want for such a strong alliance, Gondor doesn't seek to be militarily tied to anyone unless there is a great need. Gondor hasn't been at war in centuries, and if possible, doesn't want to be tied into an alliance in which we would be honor-bound to go to war. Now, we will consider this part of your offer, but will need more dialogue upon it. As to your wishes to marry Prince Edward, no one can speak for him but himself. It is his choice whether or not he will marry you. I will allow him to give an answer himself. Edward, you are free to speak my boy." Edward took a sip of water, looking quite nervous. He cleared his throat and regained his confidence, standing and looking Sémarë Sareär right in the eyes. He had a bright and warm look about him, sporting a devilish grin for all to see. "Sémarë, I am most honored by your proposal. Few words can describe the way that I am feeling right now, as I am elated that you would have me as your husband. I must say that I have seen many beautiful women in my lifetime, but none can even come close to the beauty that you possess. I would like to describe your beauty, but I cannot. I am taken aback by all of this, and would like to accept your proposal. I would love to share this journey we call life with you." Eldarion had been brooding the entire time, and suddenly spoke. "I am pleased with Johnathan's response. He has been a mentor to me, having been the Steward since the latter days of my father. Now, he may have spoken for me, but I have decided to give my own thoughts on your proposals. I am not so hasty to enter an indivisible alliance between our two nations. I have the utmost respect for Ascarenor, but I am not sure about an alliance that would tie us together in every way, shape, and form. I will allow the marriage between you, Sémarë, and Edward, but this alliance has risks. If one of our nations were to go to war, the other may not agree. For instance, if Gondor went to war but the Mainland decided that Ascarenor should stay out of it. What then, would become of such an alliance? I have studied your culture, and know of this Unbreakable Oath that you have offered to me. It is an extremely rare occurrence, and I am not insulting that. I am simply a very cautious and observant man. I also noticed your using of an omen of some sort, though I do not know exactly what it meant. I do know, however, that if we are to be entered with one another in such an alliance, we must examine every possibility closely, and decide if this is truly what we want. When we were passing through the canals of Iscamir on our way here, we spoke of your history and what you call the Great Consolidation. You went about and conquered those lands which were and are Arda Tuluvan, and were great and terrible in might on the battlefield. Sémarë, you told me that it is not the will of Heaven for your nation to simply go about conquering for power's sake. However, your religious text, the Evandiylon Vórima, seems to suggest something rather contrary to your words. I cannot speak the language in which it was written, but I can quote it in the common tongue. And I quote: "Great holy armies shall be gathered and trained to fight all who embrace evil. In the name of Eru, ships shall be built to carry our warriors out amongst the stars, and we will spread Origin to all the unbelievers. The power of the Fëanturi will be felt far and wide and the wicked shall be vanquished." This is rather disconcerting to me, and I would ask all of you gathered here for clarification of this passage. I have a knowledge of your religious beliefs here, as many of your gods are also worshipped heavily in Gondor, but not exactly on the same level or in the same way. Since we worship many of the same gods and goddesses that you do but not in the same form or fashion, would you do these things to us that your scriptures instruct you to? Would you allow this religious dogma to prevent an alliance between our two great nations? What about those Gondorians who don't believe even close to what you do, like Johnathan, who is an avowed agnostic? I am confused between what you say and what your theology dictates. Do you not value the freedom of religion? To further my point, I know a nation of atheists. The United Socialist States of Die Erworbenen Namen. In the 1970s and until around 1980, they had freedom of religion. That was, until, they had a civil war waged upon them by religious extremists who called themselves the Order of Wolves, I believe. They were savages who killed anyone who didn't believe as they did, and tore that nation apart. Thousands of innocent people perished, all in the name of deity and doctrine. Religion, in most forms, has since been banned in that nation to prevent a radical uprising from ever happening again. Your doctrine seems to hearken to that of the Order of Wolves, and I wouldn't want to see history repeat itself. I may not have ever had the best dealings with Emperor Maximus of DEN, but I do know this: he wasn't wary of religious extremism until it was too late. Should I too, not be wary?" Eldarion looked Sémarë Sareär in the eyes, and waited for her and the court's response. Edited by Gondor, Jun 15 2016, 12:24 PM.
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| Ascarenor | Jun 15 2016, 08:51 PM Post #9 |
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Sémarë gave a rare smile towards Edward and she approached closer to him. “Ours will be a fruitful and adventurous union for I have laid eyes upon that which is most handsome.” She bowed her head, keeping her eyes upon his. She spoke then in Quenya, its rhythmic melodies entrancing, “Ilyë tier tulir sís ar langar, illumë mauya nin mapatal, ma meril sië melmenya, órenya, melissë ná ilaurëa, ilya vinya rasta.” She had walked back towards the center of the room while the King spoke about his concerns on the treaty and the religion of Ascarenor. “The alliance, in which I propose, Majesty, is a Mutual Defense Pact. In no way would either party be obliged to offer their support if the other were to wage an aggressive war. Gondor has recently ended its isolation and Ascarenor has maintained, as plans to maintain, our policy of neutrality. Civil unrest plagues the west, wars ravage and we stand alone in Audaxia, re-assurances are needed to give a sense of security to our peoples. And fear not, Your Majesty, the Empress – might she live forever - would be obligated, both by honor and treaty, to support this alliance and, should the need arise, require that Ascarenor rally her soldiers in the defense of Gondor. ” Sémarë gestured to the Imperial Legate. She cleared her throat before speaking, “Her Serene Highness is correct, Majesty.” She narrowed her eyes at the Viceriene, “If this alliance is formed then Arda Tuluva is, as the Viceriene said, bound by honor and treaty to aid Gondor. I speak on behalf of…” “High Lady Helyanwenyarë speaks on behalf of the Imperial Government of the Mainland,” Sarëar said interrupting the Legate, “Her knowledge and authority over these matters is absolute. Our trade treaty would also be solidified never to be retracted or terminated by the whims of the Terecenë Court.” “Ascarenor is a sizable nation and we live in a modern world, expansionism and conquests are ideas for an age gone by. We care only to defend ourselves and usher in an era of peace.” “On the topic of Your Majesty’s other concern, I must say that I am no Hildari to discuss the finer points of theology, but do not all faiths say that theirs is the truth and all others are false? That one must adhere to their own sacred scriptures?” Sémarë began, her face still locked on the Gondorian king but she made quick gestures with her hands, subtle yet misplaced. A keen observer would have seen her servant, a Teleri man quietly exit the room. “There are many among my Cabinet who are fervent followers of i Voronwë who advocate the dissolution of foreign faiths. But I am not one of them; I value one’s intellect, not one’s faith. I care little of what higher power one does or does not adhere; only their actions and deeds. The Grand Consolidation is over, Majesty, the great holy armies have already been gathered and trained, our warriors already traversed the lands and vanquished the wicked.” The man had reentered the room bowing before the Viceriene holding open an ornate amber colored book. “If Your Majesty permits, I shall read the opening lines of the Parma Quelumë, or the Book of Origin, of which that passage comes: Women shall weep and men quail as the nations of the earth are rent like rotting cloth. Nor shall anything stand or abide. All oaths shall shatter, all vows broken when the dread fires are born again. The hills burn and the land turns sere. The rivers dry up, and the hours dwindle. Storms rumble beyond the horizon, and the fires of heaven purge the earth. Let tears flow, O ye people of the world. Weep for your salvation. She closed the book and gestured for her servant to excuse himself, “It is all woe and doom throughout, Your Majesty. You should pay little heed to its words but only to there meanings. As it is mainly a book of prophesy and how one should remain true on Path to Enlightenment. The official stance of the Empire concerning the Sacred Scriptures of the Faith is that it should be taken figuratively, not literally.” She raised her hand slightly to emphasize her next point, "’It is we who must seek the truth of the universe in order to achieve enlightenment.’ Truth is understanding, King Eldarion, understanding leads to knowledge which is the slayer of ignorance, for ’The flames of ignorance burn without pain. Beware the power or it will consume you before you know.’" “Knowledge through understanding. Peace through harmony. Prosperity through cooperation. These are the doctrines in which I wish to conduct our affairs, Eldarion. We have a common mission, a common goal, a common ideal. We are honorable nations, our word has value: both Gondor's and Ascarenor's. Few others can say the same. When we pledge ourselves, we commit fully. You have my word, my vow, that we will not deceive you or lead you astray for we are committed to peaceful resolutions, diplomatic action not aggression or war. "Yes culturally and spiritually our two great nations differ vastly, but from diversity comes ingenuity and innovation. Together our nations will be a beacon of hope in the darkness. Why not, then, unite ourselves to achieve this throughout Audaxia?” Edited by Ascarenor, Jun 18 2016, 02:20 AM.
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| Gondor | Jun 17 2016, 07:21 PM Post #10 |
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Eldarion sat back down, and stroked his beard. He didn't know for sure, be he thought that Sémarë Sareär was trying to warn him. He believed that the Gondorians were being deceived. No aggressive wars. The great holy armies had been trained (not minding the last part about them vanquished). Then that spiel about a doomsday prophecy and not worrying about how to interpret the Book of Origin. And then that last bit. "The flames of ignorance burn without pain. Beware the power or it will consume you before you know." Eldarion knew that he wasn't among friends. Many members of the Viceriene's cabinet were radicals, and yet somehow she was keeping them under control. If Ascarenor had been training armies for some sort of holy war, he wanted to know. Maybe it was to be a false flag attack. But he also had to go about the entire ordeal carefully, or the negotiations would turn southward quick. He had listened intently as the Viceriene had been speaking, and sipped a glass of suxa while she had gone on. He nibbled on a small treat as she finished her words and posed the question of whether the alliance would be made or not. He was even more cautious at this point, knowing that there was tension between the Imperial Legate and Sémarë. He looked around the room, trying to scan for hostile faces. Everyone's faces were stoic and didn't give even a hint of hatred or suspicion. He then looked back at the Viceriene, giving a the room a poker face. "I thank you for the reassurance, Viceriene. I am still not yet decided on the alliance yet, but there is something I will do immediately." He took the lengthy copy of the East Audaxia Fair Trade Agreement and signed it, inking Gondor economically to Ascarenor. "I have grown weary from all of this political discussion. I call for a recess in negotiations. During this recess, Viceriene, I would deign to speak with you. Alone. There are some finer details of the proposals that I would like us to look at on a more personal level." |
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