A Lord and Lady

[Sarah Tintagyl]

The conservatory of Hofburg Palace in Vienna was Duchess Maria Magdalena's favorite room, in her favorite palace throughout her country. After taking power in Austria, she had commissioned the entire eastern wall of the conservatory to be decorated in a gigantic map of the world, in Napoleonic Style, with elegant writing over the countries that stretched from the United Kingdom of Idaho-Montana in North America to the islands of Greater Pacifica in the Far East. The love of geography she had was unrivaled and on certain rainy days, the young duchess would spend hours tracing her hands across the latitude lines and up the longitude lines, dreaming of the far off places of the world she had not yet seen and contemplating where to expand the reaches of Austrian influence. By far her favorite hobby with the great map was placing little markers over certain areas, Athens, Timuridia, anywhere where a viable and strong alliance had been crafted, anywhere that she deemed her brethren and friends.

Nearly every continent had some shade of friendship over it, her sister Angelika represented Austria in Idaho-Montana, likewise Princess Theresia was currently in the United Federation of the East. Maria, herself, had spoken with leaders from South America, across Europe and beyond, but the only continent that lay untouched was the wide expanses of Africa and with good reason. Africa as of late had become a seeming den of radicalism, war, and destruction. Maria watched with concern as Islamic states formed powerful leagues, possibly ones that would present active and aggressive retribution against her campaign to restore Christianity to power in the world. If that was not enough then the the seeming spread of conflict from small states on the continent made her search for other far away allies across the world. However, as she sat at her harpsichord watching the painter begin to touch up the African state of Realm along the 'Bend of Africa', the Duchess lifted her head up curiously and stopped her concerto.

"Ivanov? What are you doing there?"

The painter stopped for a moment and turned on the Duchess with a surprised look. "You did receive the news Your Grace, the declaration of existence of Realm, the state in Africa."

"In passing I'm afraid, with all the discussion going on with the Catholic League, I've had very little time for myself, a new country in Africa you say? I hope not more Islamic Extremists."

Ivanov laughed. "On the contrary Your Grace, they seem to have a very European flare to them, something I think you might enjoy. I was surprised when you hadn't commented on their existence."

"Oh?" Maria said standing up and began walking over towards the map. "You know Ivanov, I've thought it a bit of a shame that for all our diplomatic outreach I have not even touched my feet onto the African coast."

"Well from what I can tell, the country has all the signs of success and prosperity about them, in the way the world lauds their return. I don't mean to speak out of place, but perhaps there is a business and political venture to be gained from such an alliance."

The Duchess chuckled and clasped her hands behind her back gazing over the map. "Indeed and in our state, diplomacy is by far our greatest strength." She turned back away from Ivanov and walked over to her harpsichord. Then taking a piece of stationary and a pen began to draft a letter to Sithis, the Lord of Realm.

[quote]
[i]
Your Excellency,

My apologies for congratulating you and your nation on its second rise so late in Realm's conception. You must forgive me, the politics of the world are unforgiving and even now my mind knows little meaning of the word 'rest'. That said, let me take the time in this letter to offer you Austria's sincerest happiness that a respectable and stable regime has come to Africa, especially given its recent history of fanaticism and war. It is because of those reasons that Austria has not been quick to send emissaries to the African Continent, as many along the Mediterranean Coast we are already allied to and other nations throughout the continent do not share our philosophies or ideologies. However, after reading further into your declaration of existence and the creation of a stable organization as the West African Company, it is quite clear that Realm's future will be bright.

If possible I would like to treat this letter as an invitation to you to come to Vienna where we might meet to discuss the possibility of an Austro-Realm alliance or at least the building of friendship between our two peoples. I am positive that our two nations can help one another achieve greater prosperity and strength in the global community.

I look forward to your reply with haste.

Sincerely,

Maria Magdalena von Hapsburg of Austria[/i]
[/quote]

[Sithis]

[i]Under the heel of his brown leather hunting boots, the twigs in Wellesley Conservatory snapped under Lord Sithis I. The cold, damp morning air was exponentially getting warmer as the traipsed through the green brush of the African grassland in front of him. His monthly hunting trips were never interrupted - the concrete confines of Castle Bruma would often stifle His Majesty, and the African countryside in Realm offered a well deserved break when he became overwhelmed.

Sensing a commotion up ahead, Sithis stopped and slowly turned the safety off on his West Africa Company shotgun. The classic hunting shotgun was an ornate mixture of wood and silver, given to him as a gift by the current President of the West Africa Company, his close friend, Viscount Guy Tarleton. Behind him was Colonel Horatio Picton, a seasoned military officer who served under Lord Sithis during the famous Sahrani Campaign and now served as Chief of Security for the Company. Accompanying the two was Sithis' favorite hunting dog, Copenhagen, and Picton's own retriever, Hannibal.

Suddenly, a group Harlequin Quail sprung out of some bushes a mere thirty yards ahead of Lord Sithis. With cat-like reflexes, Sithis aimed and pulled the trigger while Picton followed suit. A few thuds in the distance confirmed the two had hit their mark, reaffirmed by the prizes their dogs brought back after tearing after the fallen birds. After examining their kills for the day, Sithis and Picton walked the mile back to where they had began their journey, at Fort Artorious, where government workers oversaw affairs while Sithis enjoyed some much deserved leisure time.

One eager aide walked up to His Majesty with a leatherbound dossier with an intricate piece of stationary. Presenting the letter to the Lord of Realm, Sithis began to read.[/i]

"Ah, yes," he muttered. "One of our first diplomatic invitations. Picton, our hunting trip will have to resume another time. I have urgent business to attend to in Austria." [i]Leaving his companion behind, Lord Sithis got in the waiting helicopter to take him back to Cheydinhal and Castle Bruma. Upon arriving in his home, he immediately began drafting a letter of reply to Duchess Maria.[/i]

[quote][center][IMG]http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/8724/realmcoa.png[/IMG]
[i]From the desk of His Majesty, Lord Sithis I of Realm[/i][/center]
To the honorable and esteemed Empress Maria Magdalena von Hapsburg of Austria,

It pleases me greatly to hear from a government like yours, especially when it concerns the expansion of our relationship. You have my personal assurance that I will be in attendance in Vienna shortly, there is a small matter of business I must attend to here in Realm first. You may expect me in Vienna tomorrow evening. Below will be the list of people accompanying me, I trust that your station has the capacity to make all of the necessary accommodations.

[u]Officials in Attendance[/u]
Sithis I, Lord of Realm and her Overseas Territories
Miles Cortigan, Foreign Minister

[u]Various Staff Representatives[/u]
Office of the Crown
Ministry of Foreign Affairs

I agree with you entirely that the continent of Africa has fallen to the plagues of idealistic fanaticism, internal conflict, and war. The Kingdom of Realm is taking several measures to be a guiding example of how to properly govern. We can discuss this further upon my arrival in Austria.

I look forward to seeing you soon, attached are photos of those in attendance.

Yours,
[img]http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/7582/sithisthefirstay4.png[/img]
Sithis I
Lord of Realm and Her Overseas Territories
[center]
[IMG]http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/1469/sithisportrait.png[/IMG]

Sithis I, Lord of Realm and Her Overseas Territories

[IMG]http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/7057/milescortigan.png[/IMG]

Miles Cortigan, Foreign Minister
[/center][/quote]

Edited March 12, 2011 by Sithis

[Sarah Tintagyl]

When the officials from Realm would arrive in Vienna, at the private airport designated to receiving foreign officials, the day was slightly overcast and a line of large gray clouds ready to burst upon the ground crowded themselves around the Austrian capital. Upon descending from the craft that brought them the long way from Africa to Europe, the flags of Realm and of Austria would be intermingled down the pathway leading to where two black limousines waited for the foreign officials, ready to take Lord Sithis and his entourage to their audience with the Duchess. As Sithis' entourage walked out towards the limousine, they were greeted by the first Austrian official, he was a middle aged man wearing a sash of red and white complementing his suit and a top hat with a red cockade graced his head.

"Lord Sithis, Herr Cortigan, Your Excellencies," the man said with a bow. "My name is [url="http://jspivey.wikispaces.com/file/view/Metternich.jpg/31960499/Metternich.jpg"]Frederich Kant[/url], I am Her Grace's Minister of Foreign Affairs, it is my pleasure to welcome you to Austria and her capital of Vienna. If you both and your entourage would follow me, you are expected at Hofburg Palace for a luncheon with the Duchess."

Kant turned on his feet and lead Sithis and the other officials towards the limousines and once inside the vehicles pulled away into the narrow avenues of Vienna's streets. The drive was short, but weaving through the narrow, yet crowded streets, was an adventure in itself and the Foreign Minister throughout the entire drive wore an apologetic look at the bumpiness of the journey. Finally the limousine pulled into the gates of Hofburg Courtyard and the large palace of the Austrian monarchs opened up for the delegation. Pulling up the gravel road, the vehicle stopped near the front staircase, where a contingent of Austrian soldiers, both men and women, dressed in the traditional white uniforms of the old Austrian Imperial Army stood with rifles ready in their welcoming of the foreigners. Kant beckoned the delegation forward and they entered into the palace itself, walking down hallways decorated with ancient swords and shields, muskets and rifles, along with the daunting eyes of Austrian rulers and leaders of the past. Reaching a pair of large mahogany doors with frosted glass, the minister pushed them open revealing a large drawing room with a small table set out on the outside balcony, while inside, relaxing on a lounge chair and listening to a servant on the piano, lay the Duchess of Austria, Maria Magdalena.

"Your Grace," Kant began, "If I may be so kind as to introduce to you Lord Sithis the First of the Kingdom of Realm and his Foreign Minster Miles Cortigan."

Maria jumped up from the lounge chair, her blonde hair tied into a tight bun and her dress gently sliding across the floor as she bowed to the two leaders. "Your Excellencies, it is an absolute pleasure to make your acquaintances, please, sit for a moment," she said pointing at a few of the chairs around the room. "We have time before lunch is prepared and I was hoping to ask a few things about the possibility of creating a strong Austro-Realm friendship in these talks today. Though I'm afraid, even after some research, I don't know much about your homeland and I would love to hear more about how a European style state ended up on the coast of Africa in these modern times. Nations talk about the strength and power of Realm it is a story I think I would want to hear. So please, Lord Sithis, if you could, what is your history?"

Edited March 12, 2011 by Sarah Tintagyl

[Sithis]

[i]Lord Sithis was just waking up from his nap as his captain announced the final descent into Austria. While some heads of state preferred to travel in flying fortresses, Lord Sithis I chose instead the intimate comfort of a specially modified private plane, capable of seating 12 and, thanks to an extra fuel tank, longer flights than most crafts its size.

Sithis glanced over at Cortigan, whose perfectly coiffed hair gave no indication of the labor intensive reading that he was doing. Looking at the seat next to him, Sithis realized that he was provided a copy of the same material that his Foreign Minister was a perusing - a carefully prepared briefing on the government of Austria and its recent activity. Glancing through the bound portfolio, Sithis looked at photos of the state officials of the extremely Catholic country and stopped at one - the Duchess Maria herself. Calling the blonde Austrian attractive wouldn't be enough, the Duchess espoused a beauty that was complemented by a look of sheer determination. Sithis was looking forward to making her acquaintance.

As the wheels of his plane touched down, Sithis stretched his legs and walked out with Cortigan leading the way. An elaborate welcoming committee greeted them on the tarmac and Lord Sithis returned the bow of the thin, white-haired Austrian in front of him.[/i]

"Minister Kant, I am most delighted to meet you. Allow me to present His Majesty, Lord Sithis I." [i]Cortigan stepped aside for Sithis to greet the Austrian Minister of Foreign Affairs.[/i]

"Greetings, Herr Kant." [i]Lord Sithis had a limited vocabulary of German, but he used it when he could. Climbing into the limo, Sithis took advantage of the final leg of the journey to take in the sights and sounds of Vienna. The tight, winding streets combined with baroque architecture reminded him of Cheydinhal, and Lord Sithis had a feeling this would not be his last visit.

As the limos pulled into Hofburg Courtyard, Sithis admired the beauty of the palace in front of him and strode eagerly in to meet the Duchess. The photo on the plane didn't do her any justice; the monarch seemed to have a glow about her.[/i]

"Sehr angenehm, Herzogin Maria." [i]Sithis bowed in front of the woman, a gesture only given by him to other heads of state. He accepted the Duchess' invitation to sit down and prepared to give a crash course on Realmic history.[/i]

"Many may seem puzzled as to why and how a nation like Realm is in Africa. The truth is pretty simple really - our nation has its roots in Great Britain many centuries ago. Through exploration, we set up a home in the Sudan that became a home away from home for the Realmic civilization, and, after a government collapse on the mainland, the Sudan became our permanent home. In recent years, internal strife and famine led to the demise of Realm, but our new home in West Africa is most comforting." [i]Sithis paused and allowed the Duchess to digest the wealth of information he just provided, while Cortigan, ever the observer and 'behind the scenes man,' sat silently nearby.[/i]

"I cannot speak personally for why Realm is held in such high regard in the minds of other rulers, although I can think of several reasons why. I always preferred diplomacy and conversation to war and battles, although I did serve in the Royal Army Forces of Realm prior to my Lordship. I united Africa, long considered a turbulent continent, under the banner of the Pan-African Coalition and we were a formidable political force. I've always treated my enemies with respect and my friends with neverending loyalty. Hopefully I can include you and your people in the latter group."

Edited March 13, 2011 by Sithis

[Sarah Tintagyl]

"Well I can assure you," Maria began after Sithis had finished speaking, "That I would see no reason why our two countries wouldn't be able to get along on the world stage. Much like the diplomatic route Realm has taken in the past and I assume is taking now in the present, is the same way Austria conducts relations with her friends and neighbors. I consider myself lucky, as a woman, diplomacy I think comes much easier as you have an added weapon to your arsenal of discussion. If words cannot soothe an enemy then the least one can do is offer a pretty smile. But I think for leaders like you and I and of course Herr Cortigan, a good conversation is all that is expected and needed to make this a pleasant visit."

A knock on the door of the study stopped her as one of the palace maids walked in and bowed. "I apologize for interrupting Your Grace, but the luncheon has been prepared outside on the balcony."

"Ah! Lovely! Thank you very much Klara, that will be all." Maria waved the maid on and got up from her own chair, "Gentlemen, I would be delighted if you could join me for lunch, will you?" But she deemed it already an acceptance and lead Sithis and Cortigan out onto the balcony, which offered a splendid view of the Viennese skyline. The clouds just began to let loose their drops of rain, but the long roof of the balcony extended far over their heads and the gentle pitter-patter of the rain provided an almost rhythmic tune for the leaders to eat. Along the table, as the three sat down, were various foods and pastries, small sandwiches of beef and ham, bits of venison with a heavy seasoning sauce covering the meat, schnitzel with lemon, potatoes, along with sweet smelling pastries, and cakes.

"They've obviously gone beyond what I had assumed, you two are in for a real treat, I'm not even treated this well by my own servants on a day to day basis." Maria laughed as she picked up a few cakes and poured herself a cup of coffee with cream. "To be honest Lord Sithis, your country intrigues me. Not once while have I been alive have I seen Africa united in a multi-cultural alliance the way history describes the Pan-African Coalition. Sure I have seen mega nations such as Sarnungia rule over vast territories of Africa, but it destroys the feeling of an active and aware continent when one country makes decisions. That said, given Africa's current history, the continent is lucky to see the return of Realm. Austria I am afraid does not have a great deal of wealth or military strength at this point, however, in terms of a mutually benefiting alliance, what Austria is blessed with is the skill of diplomacy as well as having a great influence over Christendom at this point in time, along with being a gateway for the Realmic Markets to access Europe as a whole, bringing more wealth to both of our countries. That said, in turn, Austria would have access to African markets, and through civilized eyes that it would seem only Realm can offer."

She took a sip of the coffee and bit into one of the cakes, "Essentially gentlemen, what I am proposing, is a mutually exclusive business venture for Realm and Austria to work together to extend both of our influences over Europe and Africa at the same time. Defending each other on the way and allowing for our economies to prosper. I have seen your initiative already in acquiring parts of Antarctica, while I have been opening markets throughout Asia, North America, and Europe. I can see only good things, prosperous things emerging from a Austro-Realmic Friendship."

The Duchess smiled as her gray eyes sparkled and her perfume fluttered whimsically across the balcony.

[Sithis]

[i]As the trio enjoyed lunch together, Sithis took a moment to take in the surrounding Viennese skyline. The view from the balcony was extended version of the preview he received in the car on the trip over. As he returned back to the scene of diplomacy, he hoped he would see the city again.[/i]

"I completely understand, your highness. It is hard to think of Africa as a formidable political force. The current state affairs, simply put, is absolutely dreadful. Mr. Cortigan here and the Foreign Ministry have been working tirelessly to reach out to old allies in Africa, hoping that we can brink back stability to the region. It will be a gradual process, as these things usually must be handled with much care. While there is a great concern about Africa's stability and well-being, there's also a degree of sovereignty that must be respected. In the end, what's best for everyone will prevail." [i]He paused to enjoy the food in front of him, while Cortigan cleared his throat.[/i]

"Your highness, permit me to speak about an alliance between Realm and Austria," [i]Cortigan's voice was deep, but had a calmness about it that revealed much about the temperament of its speaker.[/i] "It seems that we both have a mutual respect for each other's nations, regardless of military strength, even though we both have somewhat limited means at this point. That being said, Realm has always boasted an impressive economy, and the plethora of natural resources in Africa could benefit many people here in Europe."

[i]Sithis took a break from enjoying the Austrian delicacies in front of him to elaborate on Cortigan's point.[/i] "My colleague makes an excellent point here. Our recent acquisition of Romulus in the Antarctic has proved to be an extremely profitable endeavor. I can safely say that Cheydinhal is now the diamond capital of Africa, and we're producing much, much more. The West Africa company has plans to harness gold deposits in northeast Realm, while on our western border, there is an abundance of oil and lead that will help us produce microchip technology. In your interest, any alliance that may come out of our time here should have an economic clause. Perhaps a private investment in the West Africa Company could be in the cards as well."

[i]Sithis sipped his coffee and turned his attention to the cakes on the table. As he did, he caught a whiff of a scent not from the food, but from something else even more pleasing. Realizing that it was the Duchess' perfume, Sithis looked up, and caught the gaze of her majesty. 'That photo really did not do her justice,' Sithis thought, and allowed himself to get distracted by the beauty of the woman in his company while Cortigan took the initiative in handling the diplomacy.[/i]

[Sarah Tintagyl]

"Well I didn't mean to make it sound like I had no respect for Africa, Lord Sithis, I do, a great deal, just as of late the political climate has been most chaotic and I am sure that Realm and her allies can solve that problem in the near future. Which," she said picking up her coffee, "Will make the continent even more lucrative when it comes to trade."

Maria sat back as Sithis and Cortigan both continued discussing the future of Realmic politics and where the predicted how the Realmic economy would progress in the coming years. She listened attentively and as their words steered towards a possible alliance, her heart jumped with joy. The thought of having access to the countless raw materials harvested from Africa and Realm's colony in Antarctica pleased the Duchess greatly and the increased trade may very well bring Austria out of the recession it had been plagued by since the nation's independence from the Germanic Union. As the Duchess thought, her eyes drifted over to Sithis' own and she caught him dazed out of the conversation, staring at her face and her neck. Maria couldn't help but offer a slight smirk as she dipped her head and chuckled lightly, but covered her mouth with her hand to make sure it didn't seem as though she found the conversation humorous.

"My apologies Herr Cortigan, the air always made me a bit flustered that's all, my emotions are always on my sleeve and what you are telling me is honestly the best thing I could possibly hear. I would be happy for Austria to enter into an economic clause with the Kingdom of Realm, perhaps even an optional or mutual military defense agreement as well. After all, we will be opening our markets, destruction of Austria would be equally felt on Realmic investors, likewise if the situation would be reversed." Maria leaned over the table and intertwined her fingers. "In addition to an Austro-Realmic Alliance, whether military, economic, or both, the Hapsburg Family would be very interested in purchasing a few shares of the West Africa Company. I would be lying to you gentlemen if I say I wasn't an ambitious woman. Austria is small now, but with some economic power, her influence can expand, be it military force, or diplomatic prowess and I am sure that an expansive nation as Realm was in its past would be understanding of such ambitions. Perhaps even in favor of expansion as well."

She smiled, looked over at Sithis and blushed slightly, then returned to her normal color to converse. "Needless to say, any partnership with you gentlemen and your wonderful country would be favorable for Austria."

[Sithis]

[i]Foreign Minister Cortigan smiled at the Duchess, and returned his gracious host's reply with a calm confidence.[/i] "Of course, any economic alliance I think would mandate a close military relationship between our nations. I can have something drawn up during our stay here, I've come prepared. As for the Hapsburg interest in the West Africa Company, I must defer to Lord Sithis for your interest there. The WAC can facilitate the economic exchange between our two countries, but it is a private company, despite its close partnership with the Crown."

"Thank you, Miles, for being understanding in this matter," [i]Lord Sithis stepped in as his colleague explained the intricate nature between the West Africa Company and Realm.[/i] "Your highness, if it's not too much of a bother, would it be possible for the Foreign Minister here to receive a tour while we go and discuss your interest in the West Africa Company?" [i]Sithis had noticed the Duchess warm up to his inadvertent flirting, and he couldn't help but return her steady gaze.[/i]

[Sarah Tintagyl]

"Of course," Maria said getting up from her chair. "My brother Franz would be more than willing to take Herr Cortigan on a tour of Vienna." She clapped her hands and one of the butlers walked out onto the balcony and bowed towards the leaders. "Zimmer, would you be so kind as to take Herr Cortigan here to my brother's study and introduce them to each other. Let Franz know that he has the pleasure of entertaining the Foreign Minister of Realm for the rest of the afternoon."

"Of course Your Grace," the butler said and turned to Cortigan, "Excellency, if you would follow me, Prince Franz is upstairs."

"I think you two will get along just fine, my brother is an avid symphony goer and culturalist, if you have any love for music, art, or architecture Herr Cortigan, you've come to the right place." She bowed her head and Zimmer escorted the Realmic Foreign Minister back into the palace leaving Maria alone with Sithis as the two leaders smiled pleasantly with one another. "Well then, now that the boys are off on their excursion and it appears that the rain has stopped," she gestured to the gardens that extended below them. "Care to join me on a promenade Lord Sithis? We can talk about the Company with a bit more fresh air."

Maria led Sithis through the rest of Hofburg Palace, taking him the long way through the marble and wooden halls. The corridors showing the pinnacle of Austrian Imperial strength in years past and simply the way the Duchess carried herself through the halls spoke of the same ambition she hoped she was capable of in her own rule. Upon reaching the frosted glass doors leading out to the gardens, the cool air following the rainfall was a refreshing mist that filled both leaders' noses and mouths and as their feet touched the damp gravel path that snaked between burbling fountains and tall, neatly cut trees, Maria gently wrapped her hand around Sithis' arm.

"So, My Lord, tell me about the West African Company and any possibility of a Hapsburg future within it."

[Sithis]

[i]Lord Sithis gladly accepted the Duchess' invitation and enjoyed their private stroll through the magnificent palace that his companion resided in. He allowed his host to take his arm and lead the way through her home, and promised himself that he would return her hospitality one day by showing her the magnificent natural beauty of Realm.

Turning his attention back to the Duchess, he allowed his left arm to be wrapped by hers while he placed his right hand on hers. Her skin was incredibly soft and gentle to the touch. 'Focus on the business,' he though to himself, although Maria's beauty was most distracting.[/i]

"Well, your highness, the current shareholder situation is this: I control a significant majority of the company with a 59% ownership, my second-in-command, Duke Banastre Scanlon IV of Assaye, owns the second-largest, and various businessmen and nobles of Realm control the rest. I would be willing to negotiate share ownership, it is essentially my company since I, as Lord of Realm, control its charter and the majority of shares. I would still retain majority ownership and the Duke would as well, but I'd be willing to part with some shares. How much are you looking to buy?"

"I would also insist," [i]Sithis continued,[/i] "That you make a visit to Realm and see what you are investing in."

Edited March 16, 2011 by Sithis

[Sarah Tintagyl]

"When I get the chance, I would be happy to visit Realm, I could use the change of pace for once. You'd be surprised," Maria said as they walked. "Even Vienna gets tiring after awhile. That said, as to the shares, I believe a few shares, maybe only two or three percent would be equivalent, definitely enough for a good return on the Company's success. I assure you, I don't want to weasel my way into Realmic politics, I'm not that kind of person, I prefer open diplomacy for everything."

They approached one of the large fountains in the middle of the garden and stopped, staring at the statue of Sif, one of the Norse Goddesses as water dripped from her fingers to the pool below. "When the Goths and Germanics took this territory, then renovated the palaces a bit. We've changed things since then, but I've taken a liking to this statue, trying not to forget the past I guess, even if it is drastically different from your own." She seemed to ramble off for a moment before shaking the thoughts from her head and turning back to Sithis. "So I assume my request would be all right and if that's the case Lord Sithis, you have my ears, I've pretty much brought up everything I need to talk business-wise for our meeting. Anything on your mind?"

[Sithis]

"A trip to Realm can be arranged immediately, and I assure you that I will return every courtesy that you've shown me here." [i]Sithis paused and stepped closer to the Duchess, turning his attention to the constant flow of the fountain in front of them.[/i]

"Yet, your majesty, allow me to be frank," [i]Sithis said, turning back to Maria,[/i] "This is a very beautiful place, almost as beautiful as the host itself. I can't help but notice though, there seems to be an interesting feeling permeating throughout this palace. Despite your intricate decorations and homages to Austrian culture, what interests me the most is you yourself. Behind your kind gestures, I've noticed the hollow feeling of loneliness."

"I too know the feeling, believe me. If my years of being Lord of the great kingdom of Realm have taught me anything, it's that I am merely an actor on the world stage, a pawn in the great game of life. I have impacted the lives of millions, conquered territory, waged wars, but I've never developed a significant connection with anyone." [i]Sithis stopped again, and stared deep into Maria's gray eyes. Stepping even closer, he again began to speak.[/i] "I've developed friendships with other great leaders, but nothing beyond that. Until I met you." [i]Sithis stopped suddenly, wrapped his arms around the Duchess, and pulled her in for a long embrace. As their lips gently touched, Sithis felt the Duchess wrap her arms around him.[/i]

[i]Miles Cortigan took a moment in his room, graciously presented to him by the Duchess' brother a few hours earlier, and admired the view from his window. The cloudy skyline that had complemented the expansive Austrian castle had now dissipated, and the gentle sun that poked through offered a romantic end to the day's diplomatic meeting. Unraveling his necktie, he paused and opened the dossier in front of him, preparing to draft a document cementing a Realmic-Austro alliance. Before beginning, he poured himself a glass of water and walked over to the window, where he noticed his Lord and the Duchess in the garden.

Ever the behind the scenes man, Miles chuckled to himself lightly before turning back to the desk and his diplomatic duties. He prepared himself to not see Sithis until the morning.[/i]

[Sarah Tintagyl]

"Oh well I never thought...I..." Maria had begun to speak before Sithis wrapped his arms around her in embrace, she had been caught completely off guard, but what surprised her most was that as the two kissed, she kissed back. Without thinking twice, the Duchess wrapped her arms around the Realmian and let the world simply flutter away into the soft sounds of the fountain. As they stood there, the romantic couple that they were, Maria's thoughts jumbled together into a knot of emotions that she couldn't even begin to decipher. While she didn't really consider herself alone, she definitely didn't believe she was anything more than a toy that leaders gawked at when she entered rooms and smiled sweetly across the diplomatic table. Maybe she should have pushed away, her mother would have told her so, perhaps her sisters as well, but what did they know? Angelika was off gallivanting across North America going to ball after ball, Theresia was sight seeing in China, and Maria was to stay home and play Duchess, just as she had played older sister all her life.

When their faces finally parted Maria, finally overcome with emotion, pressed her hands against her face and walked over to the fountain. "Oh, Sithis, this, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have done that." She was apologizing? Why was she apologizing? He was the one who kissed her. "I mean, I don't know, I just, oh...ugh"

She turned back to Sithis and stared at him, completely dumbfounded on what to say. "I...uh..." Maria closed her eyes and composed herself, pushing the shivers from her body and straightening her face. "Lord Sithis, we've only just met."

[Sithis]

[i]Sithis took a moment, collected himself, and placed a comforting hand on the Duchess' shoulder.[/i] "Don't apologize. I know we have only just met, but I have known people for years and not gotten to know them like I feel like I know you now. We are both chess pieces on the same board while everyone else around us is waiting for the next move. I respect tradition, formalities, and manners just like anyone else in our position would, but sometimes the situation is appropriate where your inhibitions may be thrown to the wind. And I feel that way with you, here, right now."

[i]He stopped, walked closer to the Duchess, and placed a gentle hand on her shoulder.[/i]

Edited March 17, 2011 by Sithis

[Sarah Tintagyl]

Maria took Sithis' hand and smiled, swinging it gently from side to side. "I really do appreciate the gesture My Lord, it's one of the kindest I have received in a long time. But I can't commit myself to this kind of relationship so suddenly, I mean I would like to, but for as friendly we are, for as much as we've talked about, I really don't know you and you really don't know me. I wish I could throw myself to the wind, but it just wasn't how I was brought up." She could see the frown forming on Sithis' face as she talked.

"But its not as though something like this couldn't work." She let him hold her close as they began to walk back towards the castle. "There have just been so many suitors, the Emperor of Athens, yourself, the Amir of Timuridia. Honestly, I think it's the most attention I've received in my entire life. I had suitors before, but never like this. Though maybe my trip to Realm could be a bit more personal. After all, you are the CEO of the West Africa company, you could take me on a tour of the country, do some sightseeing, and talk about the company. It doesn't have to be formal at all, just a meeting between friends."

Maria looked up into his eyes and smirked. "I'd appreciate a man like that, much more."

[Sithis]

[i]Lord Sithis' brow furrowed as Maria seemed to spurn his advances, but the idea of a private getaway between the two in Realm was very enticing.[/i] "The natural beauty of Realm is something everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. I would be most pleased to give you a tour of the countryside."

[i]Sithis worked out the details in his head. They could start in the northeastern corner where the West Africa Company had developed luscious vineyards; followed by a trip west to the Seringapatam Plains, where he often led hunting expeditions; the third leg could be spent enjoying the mountains and waterfalls of the southwest; Cheydinhal would be a suitable conclusion to the trip.[/i]

[i]Turning to Maria's twinkling, gray eyes Sithis began,[/i] "I believe we could make this trip work. Instead of me being Lord Artorious Wellesley Sithis of Realm, and you Duchess Maria Magdalena von Hapsburg of Austria, I could just be Arthur, and you could be Maria, two friends enjoying the natural pleasures of Realm. How does that sound?"

[Sarah Tintagyl]

"That sounds absolutely marvelous Arthur, absolutely marvelous." She leaned over and kissed him gently on the cheek as the two strode back into the palace. "The moment I get some free time around here, you can expect me to be on the first flight down to Cheydinhal and we'll have that tour."

As it was Cortigan would see the return of his Lordship as both Maria and Sithis returned to the drawing room where the meeting had first taken place. By this time the sun had already begun to set. "Of course you two are welcome to spend the night in Vienna and honestly for as long as you like afterward. I enjoy having company a great deal and would love for both your presences at breakfast tomorrow. However," Maria said with a yawn. "I have to retire. I have a busy day ahead of me tomorrow and if I don't sleep now, I'll be a walking zombie for the rest of the day. Herr Cortigan," she said shaking his hand. "It was a pleasure meeting you and Arthur," Maria grinned and two both of his hands in her graceful touch. "It was a true pleasure, I anxiously await our trip to Cheydinhal."

With that the Duchess turned and left the room, leaving Sithis and Cortigan alone. The maids would be around in a bit to show the Realmians their rooms, if they took up the offer. However, Maria's mind, as soon as she closed the door behind her, went into a free-fall of confusion and shock, she expected to literally fall to the floor. What had happened? In an instant her mindless flirting had caught the heart of Arthur Sithis, Lord of Realm, and more so, he was taken by her. It was almost hard to comprehend but there it was, in fact, she could still taste his kiss. Too much Maria, she thought to herself, as she pushed herself into bed. The soft covers and her nightgown making her shiver in warmth. Too much, but she was going to Africa, and she was sure it would be an adventure that would change her life.

She was sure of that.

[Sithis]

[i]'Arthur?' Cortigan thought to himself, 'haven't heard that one since he was a Colonel in the RAF.' Lord Sithis' quick rise through the ranks of Realm's Royal Armed Forces, as well as his proficiency for solving territorial disputes, had earned him the nickname 'King Arthur,' but once he succeeded Pepin IV as Lord SIthis I, almost no one called him that. Cortigan wondered if the chemistry he sensed at lunch earlier in the day could blossom into something more... 'No, I shouldn't speculate,' he thought, and turned to the man beside him.[/i]

"Your Majesty, while you were uh - occupied - I took the liberty of drafting up a document that would cement our work here." [i]He handed Sithis a leather dossier with Realm's famous lion imprinted on the front. The lion was a fitting analogy for Realm's position in Africa - the phrase of "King of the Jungle" when referring to the animal was something Sithis always chuckled at, considering he was one of few monarchies on the African continent.[/i] "It's all very simple really. An economic exchange to be facilitated by the West Africa Company, they'll set up an office here in Austria to ensure everything goes smoothly. Oil, coal, and silver will be among the initial exports, with uranium and others coming later. We'll have a mutual defense treaty if either is attacked, and a diplomacy clause that will establish embassies in either countries. Really a solid relationship between us two, I don't think these talks could have gone any better."

[i]Sithis perused the documents in front of him with heavy scrutiny, making sure everything was in order.[/i] "Who were you thinking for an ambassador? What's his name, the polo player?"

[i]Cortigan smiled as Sithis referenced Percy Ashburne, a man once famous for his polo playing skills in Realm who, through his noble blood as Earl of Farragut, had left his sportsman career behind to enlist in the diplomatic world. Cortigan had worked with him on several occasions and found his charm to match his cunning.[/i] "Yes, Earl Ashburne will be perfect for this assignment, I'm sure he'll rise to the occasion. I'll have our man in the Real Estate division of the Foreign Ministry scout potential embassy locations."

"Excellent work, Miles. I'll present this to the Duchess in the morning. See you then." [i]With that, the men accepted the Austrian maids' invitations to their separate bedrooms, and Lord Sithis sat quietly down on his bed, thinking about all that had happened over the day. His mind focused on the solid diplomatic alliance that would come out of a Realmic-Austro agreement, but he could not keep his mind off of Maria. The thirty seconds in the garden had seemed like a lifetime, and for the first time, he actually felt at peace. Hanging up his jacket in the closet of the ornate bedroom the Duchess had provided for him, Sithis walked over to the window and stared out at the Austrian estate before him. The morning would bring the cementing of a diplomatic relationship between Realm and Austria, and the beginning of a new one between Sithis and Maria.[/i]

Edited March 19, 2011 by Sithis

[Sarah Tintagyl]

Arthur and Miles would not be disturbed through the night and when the maids finally arrived in the morning, a few minutes past nine o'clock to announce breakfast, both the Realmians could opt out of the meal. Though Maria doubted that either of the men would pass up a perfectly good breakfast of sausage, schnitzel, ham, and cherry tarts. When they arrived in the large dinning room, led down by the maids, Maria and her brother were already sitting together at the far end of the table taking in light conversation. The Duchess hadn't undressed from her nightgown and her hair hung low over her shoulders and the silk pink robe that she wore shimmered brightly in the sun. Both Hapsburg's rose their heads when they heard the footsteps enter the room and Maria bowed gently to Sithis, offering him the chair next to her own where the sun was brightest.

"Arthur, I hope that the beds treated you well enough. Honestly it was always hard for me sleeping somewhere new for the first time." She said placing a forkful of schnitzel into her mouth and wiping it with a napkin. "That said, I want to thank you for last night, it isn't often I meet a gentleman of your caliber and I plan on making that trip to Realm very soon." Maria bit her lip and smiled mischievously to her colleague before straightening her posture to so as not to cause her brother or Cortigan to think something was strange.

"That said before we part ways, after breakfast, is there anything else that needs to be discussed?"