The invitation to Queen Sapphira Frasch was not simply a cream enveloped letter with fine penmanship; nor was it a more modern state memo. It was the pinnacle of a long series of letters, telephone calls, memos, official communications, extended between the two governments over nearly a year to bring about a fruitful relationship. What had begun as simply avoiding having an alliance that the Kingdom of Sombreland had once been part of avoid a senseless war had changed to something that served needs for both nations. Both nations needed to improve their trade markets. Sombreland had a desperate need for agricultural goods. And Oktotheio needed to prepare for the future by being better defended.
It was possible, that after all the threats, all the anguish, that the Princess-Regent, Alavaine, was going to achieve the goals of her government and successfully proceed with her reign.
There were those who disagreed within her country, and the Princess-Regent, Alavaine, did not want anyone from the Cult of Thon to disrupt the signing of what she was proposing (if Queen Sapphira Frasch agreed) to call the Treaty of Aldapar, after the island where she was proposing to meet Queen Sapphira Frasch. This was an island in the Somber Sea, which was a great inland freshwater sea claimed by Sombreland. There were islands on this sea, some inhabited by fishermen, scientists, or obscure villages, but one of the most pleasant was owned by the Royal Family and was a residence called The Vraddagoon. The Vraddagoon had originally been built by King Orian V for his bride, Queen Oberine, said to be as lovely as the Princess-Regent Alavaine was in the present age. The two, compared classic portrait to living person, both had delicate features, raven hair, lovely pale skin, sumptuous figures and a gentle smile.
The palace was luxuriously appointed, featured pleasant walking grounds, a private docking area, landing airfield, gardens, stables, and many other amenities. The plan was to offer Queen Sapphira Frasch accommodation to the extent that she required; if she wanted a large entourage, that would be accommodated; if she preferred a more intimate gathering, a small area of The Vraddagoon would be used and it would be more private and pleasant. The international flight would take the Queen and her entourage to the international airport in Galador, and from there a more local flight by a Royal Air Force executive plane would take them to the island.
Inquiries were made as to how Queen Sapphira Frasch and any of her court or advisors would prefer to arrive and remain; the way they habitually did not dress for public and private events, they were informed, would be perfectly acceptable. If, however, they preferred, it was known that they sometimes dressed up to travel abroad and this would be most welcome. They were even invited to try out the Royal Wardrobe! The weather would generally be mild to warm.
The main event, of course, would be the signing of the treaty. However, inquiries were made as to how the two heads of state and their entourages might best enjoy themselves. Dancing, music, walking, riding horses, boating, were all offered but the Royal Court officials of Sombreland were open to suggestions. In this, too, negotiation was possible.
