A tale of Lions (closed to the Trade Federation of Manches)

[Castellion]

The swooshing sound of the wave breakers was intimidating. The night was filled with lightning and the thunderous sound of one of the famous storms made a good audience for the meeting. Setting the scene between two nations of power.
The Castle of Twait was the old fortress of House Valois, seldom someone outside the family was invited. Rarely someone outside of the Kingdom.
Another lightning bolt illuminated the face of a young woman, in the starting twenties.
She wore a tailored made dress that looked regal enough but was made in a true castellonian fashion pleasing the eye of any observer as well. The brown hair was open in a typical fashion of the kingdom, waving in a slight motion even now. Her blue eyes sparkled with sorrow as she looked out of the window. It was like she could see something outside in the darkness. As if she could see the future. It was said that some of her ancestors had this talent, the third eye as it was called.
However, she didn't need a third eye to see what was happening right now. Her father had gone mad. More than usual. If not for her intervention a new regional war would be underway by now. Yes, she was proud of what she had achieved, destroying some objects in the process but it was worth it.
They would come for a meeting. They would meet here, for the first time in generations. Since the Destruction of Lyon, since the tragedy that hit the house, Valois.
She turned away from the black sky, casting away the sorrowful thoughts. What mattered now was an agreement with the Trade Federation. Something that would settle down the conflict her father had begun.
Not only her reputation depended on it, then thousands of lives would be saved. Her people, her subjects. True she was only second in line of heritage but still, she cared about them. Besides the last civil war had shown how fragile the line of heritage could be.
She turned when she heard footsteps.
" Your grace, the Delegation of the Federation will arrive shortly."
" Good, very good. Make sure there will be no interruptions. No one reaches this Island without my consent. Is that clear ?"
" Yes your grace. Do you want a guard accompanying you ?"
" That won't be necessary, I'm sure my sisters will be happy to fulfil this duty." For a second she bared her teeth, oh yes they would enjoy this.
" Of course. Your father is notified as well however it seems below his grandeur to welcome our guests."
A long sight. *stupid, stupid, stupid old man.*
"Very well it seems I have a duty to fulfil them." With a graceful turn Princess Victoria Valois, second in line to the throne, Marquese of Twait and right now head of the Castellonian delegation made her way to the small airport that normally served as an airforce base.
It was time to set some things right.

[Manches]

The Presidential Jet gradually closed in on the airport, shaking a little with the turbulence the weather was providing with a few minutes to landing, the turbulence with declining altitude through the clouds had naturally been much stronger, however most of it had been travelled through now, the President, Aleida Drika was preparing for the talks with the Castellonians, safety of Astural from descending into large scale warfare relied on her, and hopefully the Castellonian King's ability to keep a calm situation instead of allowing it to flare up and cause the deaths of thousands, potentially millions of people.

Drika felt a small shake and a bump before the Presidential Jet landed smoothly, considering the weather this was quite surprising, the flaps opened and the engine power was being decreased, over time the aircraft slowed and taxied to a designated hangar, after checks were made the door of the aircraft was opened to a staircase and the President stepped out with her two Presidential body guards, slightly confused, she waited with her protection for an escort.

The President looked at her body guards, contemplating whether she would require them at the meeting, she'd figure out at the time, it may be seen with a bad hunch after all, she waited anxiously.

[Castellion]

The Presidential Jet gradually closed in on the airport, shaking a little with the turbulence the weather was providing with a few minutes to landing, the turbulence with declining altitude through the clouds had naturally been much stronger, however most of it had been travelled through now, the President, Aleida Drika was preparing for the talks with the Castellonians, safety of Astural from descending into large scale warfare relied on her, and hopefully the Castellonian King's ability to keep a calm situation instead of allowing it to flare up and cause the deaths of thousands, potentially millions of people.

Drika felt a small shake and a bump before the Presidential Jet landed smoothly, considering the weather this was quite surprising, the flaps opened and the engine power was being decreased, over time the aircraft slowed and taxied to a designated hangar, after checks were made the door of the aircraft was opened to a staircase and the President stepped out with her two Presidential body guards, slightly confused, she waited with her protection for an escort.

The President looked at her body guards, contemplating whether she would require them at the meeting, she'd figure out at the time, it may be seen with a bad hunch, after all, she waited anxiously.

The Airfield was unusual for a diplomatic gathering for several reasons. First, there was no pomp, no red carpet, no honour guard. Instead, the field was nearly empty. Nearly because of a small group that made their way towards the jet. The group consisted of the Princess together with four soldiers, wearing the red and gold of the royal guards.
None of them had a problem with the weather as all of them were accustomed to Twait.
A new lightning bolt illuminated the group in a rather dramatic light.
With an aura of confidence, the Princess made her way towards the group of new arrivals.
" I'm glad to see that you made your way safely Madame President, welcome to Twait. I'm Princess Victoria Valois, daughter of Francois Valois and second in line to the throne of Castellion."
Her voice was melodic though about all the noises she needed to shout quite a bit. She motioned to a convoy of three cars that were waiting a good 100 metre abroad of the Jet. It was not the newest model but at least it was not the kind of military transport that was the ordinary means of transport in this area.
After all, it was the first state visit on Twait since 400 years.
The cars themselves were old state cars, they still looked beautiful although a bit antiquated, possibly constructed 30 years ago. Still, they hold all the decorum you would expect from representative cars.
Illuminated by another lightning bolt the President could see the goal of their Destination. Castle Valois, an imposing stone fortress, big enough to field a garrison of 2000 soldiers and a remember on what House Valois made so prominent. Endurance. This Castle was over 2000 years old and had seen all of the histories of the Family, all the downfalls, all the victories, all the glory. It was fitting that it would host this meeting that would set the way for the upcoming future of Valois and Castellion.

[Manches]

Drika staunchly yet somewhat smoothly responded, "Yes, It is good to meet you too, Princess, hopefully we will ease the tensions between our nations..."
She calmly walked toward the convoy with the Princess, dismissing her body guards to wait at the jet, getting into one of the vehicles, the engine being powered on with the turn of the key in the ignition, as the vehicle slowly began to move and speed up, she looked over to the Princess, "So what are the exact intentions that your father has in mind, it seems His Majesty is concerned about my nation's actions."

She turned to look out of the vehicle's window, watching a strike of lightning smack down in the distance, she then turned back to the Princess, "Does your father intend to meet me or will it be a representative of himself?". Drika questioned before sitting up properly and checking through folders that she decided to bring with herself.

Drika stared at the Castle Valois, (OOC: that French Dynasty though.) it was magnificent, the fact it has stood the test of time is amazing, so many people probably fought here and spilt blood yet unlike those people, the Castle still stands...

[Castellion]

Drika staunchly yet somewhat smoothly responded, "Yes, It is good to meet you too, Princess, hopefully we will ease the tensions between our nations..."
She calmly walked toward the convoy with the Princess, dismissing her body guards to wait at the jet, getting into one of the vehicles, the engine being powered on with the turn of the key in the ignition, as the vehicle slowly began to move and speed up, she looked over to the Princess, "So what are the exact intentions that your father has in mind, it seems His Majesty is concerned about my nation's actions."

She turned to look out of the vehicle's window, watching a strike of lightning smack down in the distance, she then turned back to the Princess, "Does your father intend to meet me or will it be a representative of himself?". Drika questioned before sitting up properly and checking through folders that she decided to bring with herself.

Drika stared at the Castle Valois, (OOC: that French Dynasty though.) it was magnificent, the fact it has stood the test of time is amazing, so many people probably fought here and spilt blood yet unlike those people, the Castle still stands...

*that's better than expected* the princess thought to herself, she had expected hostility but it seems her father was wrong, there were democracies understanding the dignity of diplomacy.
" The concerns, well yes. You see Castellion is an old nation, a proud one, probably quite a bit arrogant as well. We were protectors of Aztlan, that's what we call this continent, you may know him as well under his modern name Asrea. It's we believe that we are the protectors of Asrea, we always were. I know Manches is not part of our influence zone but the zones are bordering, influencing each other. You can understand that the thread of a nuclear power is... intimidating. How would you feel if, for example, Tortoisera would start a massive nuclear project and an overhaul of its fleet? There are some points we would like to discuss. And yes my father will be present. I'm sad to say that he is not fully convinced of your intentions." They slowly drove along the coast and towards the hill where the castle was built. " Beautiful isn't it? I was born here, in a Night like today. Storms are quite often here, especially in the autumn and winter. This is the old fortress of my family, since over 2000 years a Valois had reigned here, even after Castellion was conquered we held it."
Slowly they drove into the courtyard, while not fully manned they could see guards patrolling on the walls.
" This is the most secure building in the whole Kingdom I assure you, nothing safe from a nuclear attack will tear down this walls." The walls were bare from any decoration.
The only decoration was the giant mouth of a lion over the front gate roaring his power into the night.
Victoria escorted her guest through the courtyard and into the main building. the entrance hall featured several portraits of handsome people. " My ancestors, from the first Marquis de Valois to the ruling king. The next monarch will be the 250th Head of House Valois."
The hall lead into a smaller chamber, that was more pleasing to the eye and more suited for conversation. The thundering sounds of the storm were a low rumble in the background by now.
" My father will be here shortly, again welcome to Twait, it's a long time since a guest wandered in this halls."

[Manches]

"Thanks for the welcome, hopefully some true progress will be made in this room, it seems like this room may have seen a lot of things, perhaps not as much as the hallway we previously went through, however it certainly has the vibe of a far history, and in regards to Tortoisera, I doubt an ally of ours would really terrify us with that... However I do request that the potential nuclear capability of Manches doesn't cause your government to panic as we do not intend for that."

The President continued, "And perhaps to help compensate for your concerns we can develop some sort of trade agreement between our nations considering my nation's geographic positioning to have heavy influence over trade in the area, our government was also considering sending funds to assist with the construction of that canal due to it's potential, and perhaps to ease concerns even more, the only real interest we have in your zone of influence is the construction of that canal."

Drika examined the room further, taking in it's aesthetic features before deciding to stand silently and wait for the King of Castellion to arrive to the meeting, hopefully soon, she did after all need to be back within a day or two for several things, including concerns about the threat that Lopodes was capable of projecting over Vallanden.

[Castellion]

A short time later a door at the other side of the room banged open and the poor and just managed to say " His Majesty King F..." Before the old man stormed in. It was true that the last years had changed him but besides the fact that he got a bit fat, lost an eye in the battle of La Cite and was as red as a bull in full charge he looked like a king and like a warrior.
He took a short look around the room before making his way to Drika.
" Madame President, it is good to see that you could arrange this meeting. We have much to discuss."
Victoria was on the edge of opening her mouth but one look from her father shut her up. It was one of this days, one of the good days.
" We are living in turbulent times and time is money." He dropped himself on the head of the table while a young woman took her place behind him. Victoria internally shook her head at the antics of her father, so he had heard the news from Lopodes as well, it seems words travelled fast these days.
" Regarding the last developing in the south I agree that a Nuclear Weapon Project for self-defence purposes will be acceptable, more to that I believe we have something in common now that it is only a question of time until this Parvenu da Silva will take control. But first comes first. You requested this meeting after all."

[Manches]

Drika was silent for a small moment, the only real reason she requested the meeting was due to the Castellonian King's issues with the development of nuclear weaponry..

The President spoke at last, "Well I originally called for this meeting with the tensions that were developing due to our research into nuclear weapons, however you seem to be rather calm about this.. I do however have concern for the recent developments in Lopodes, both of our nations are under the threat of a potentially aggressive and expansionist Lopodes, and due to your relaxation on your position regarding nuclear weaponry, I think it may be important to discuss about the occurrences and perhaps begin military cooperation to keep the Lopodesians from threatening us, now this does not necessarily mean the formation of a military alliance, but potentially sharing military intelligence, and things such as that."

Drika continued, "We are currently planning to reinforce the Vallanden garrison, I won't tell you what we're going to send there... And once again, due to Lopodes I will work on getting some financial aid sent to Castellion if you are willing to co-operate."

[Castellion]

Drika was silent for a small moment, the only real reason she requested the meeting was due to the Castellonian King's issues with the development of nuclear weaponry..

The President spoke at last, "Well I originally called for this meeting with the tensions that were developing due to our research into nuclear weapons, however you seem to be rather calm about this.. I do however have concern for the recent developments in Lopodes, both of our nations are under the threat of a potentially aggressive and expansionist Lopodes, and due to your relaxation on your position regarding nuclear weaponry, I think it may be important to discuss about the occurrences and perhaps begin military cooperation to keep the Lopodesians from threatening us, now this does not necessarily mean the formation of a military alliance, but potentially sharing military intelligence, and things such as that."

Drika continued, "We are currently planning to reinforce the Vallanden garrison, I won't tell you what we're going to send there... And once again, due to Lopodes, I will work on getting some financial aid sent to Castellion if you are willing to co-operate."

For a split-second there was silence.
" Lopodes is a Problem I admit, we had our problems with them in the past and it's very likely that we will encounter new problems with them when this so called 'right-wing movement' win the elections. This won't do good for the stability of the region. Not, at, all. This is why I think a nuclear project is acceptable, it secures a counterbalance against them.
As for your proposal, this will need to remain confidential of course. We want to participate in this project of yours. You are gearing towards a nuclear power and this means we will work on the same project. For self-defence purposes of course. I hope that you will respect that as much as we do yours.

With each word, the eyes of the princess had gone wider. This was madness, the consequences of a Nuclear Project, in secrecy no less would put them into conflict with their own allies. What was her father thinking? That couldn't be right.
However, her father was not done.
" As for your proposal, we can do that. Also, in case you don't have this intelligence. Proteus Industries introduced a new series of small Navy ships, Corvettes, Missile Boats and Frigates. I would grant an export into Marches for this as the icing on the cake so to speak."
The room went completely silent. His father was nuts. Completely nuts, she had heard rumours of what these frigates could achieve and they were a threat on their own.
" This is a sign of our goodwill giving you the option to defeat any Lopodes Fleet before they reach your shore."
OOC: If you want the data for this stuff PM me on discord and I explain it. OOC out
" So do we have a deal ?"

[Manches]

Drika Responded in a very calm and collected manner, "While I do believe we should cooperate to contain the threat posed by Lopodes, I believe jointly working on nuclear weaponry is going too far in working together... Besides, we don't particularly need any warships or anything either, and I am confident that we won't need your frigates to fight the Lopodesians, my nation is also working and getting on very well with the development of nuclear weaponry and I believe that with support we've already received from states that won't be named, getting further support is unnecessary."

The President Paused for a minute before continuing, "However besides nuclear weaponry, we will still be completely willing to cooperate with you."

[Castellion]

Drika Responded in a very calm and collected manner, "While I do believe we should cooperate to contain the threat posed by Lopodes, I believe jointly working on nuclear weaponry is going too far in working together... Besides, we don't particularly need any warships or anything either, and I am confident that we won't need your frigates to fight the Lopodesians, my nation is also working and getting on very well with the development of nuclear weaponry and I believe that with support we've already received from states that won't be named, getting further support is unnecessary."

The President Paused for a minute before continuing, "However besides nuclear weaponry, we will still be completely willing to cooperate with you."

For a short second, the President could see a myriad of emotions circling the face of Francois. Confusion, Disappointment, determination, resignation, anger.
" I see, in this case before you offer this you need to see the context." An and came forward, carrying a large map of Astural, the Continent of Aztlan got a sole colour, the dark red of the Castellion Crest.
" You must understand, Castellion suffered 3 wars in the last century and it is our destiny to reach the position we defended for 200 years. We are the defender of Aztlan and anything West of Westelijke is our sphere of influence.
It's the right we earned by blood and we will take care of our sphere. Lopodes is a problem, for centuries we had our problems with them and should this gommeux, this baveux volute, this... dilletante be elected we will need to be prepared because this will not be pretty."
Victoria grimaced, yes this was her father. He was not truly angry but he was a caged animal, a relict of old days. Days before the possibility of nuclear warfare, days before the wars, before the annihilation of most assets House Valois had. It was an obsession her father had, he wants to take it back, everything of it.
He was not done yet.
" Of course we accept the Empire for all what it is worth but this Parvenues went weak. They crossed lines, they lost their priviledges. You see we were close once but that was years ago, a century maybe two depending on how you see it. Democracies can't understand this concept but Lopodes should have known it better, they have insulted us and we are obliged to get revenge on this. Regardless, how, long, it, takes." With each word, he smashed his fist onto the table.
" You see we are interested in a defence pact against Lopodes, should Vallanden be endangered we will support you, regardless how many men it would take. Depending on the gains we could also discuss a more permanent defence pact. What do you say ?"

[Manches]

Drika spoke calmly, "We are definitely all for the defence pact, as I said previously. What would be your position on intelligence sharing in terms of Lopodes, we could also organise joint military exercises to show Lopodes just what they think they're dealing with. With the expansion our navy is going through, we can definitely put the lot into their place with ability to pressurise them, with mere naval ability, combined we could probably obliterate them off the map with a bit of umpth."

"As for your sphere of influence, we don't want to have to impend on it, which should be quite present and understandable, yet we will be forced to get involved in your sphere of influence when threats to us come knocking at our door, which I believe you will find very understandable for a nation to defend itself."

[Castellion]

Drika spoke calmly, "We are definitely all for the defence pact, as I said previously. What would be your position on intelligence sharing in terms of Lopodes, we could also organise joint military exercises to show Lopodes just what they think they're dealing with. With the expansion our navy is going through, we can definitely put the lot into their place with ability to pressurise them, with mere naval ability, combined we could probably obliterate them off the map with a bit of umpth."

"As for your sphere of influence, we don't want to have to impend on it, which should be quite present and understandable, yet we will be forced to get involved in your sphere of influence when threats to us come knocking at our door, which I believe you will find very understandable for a nation to defend itself."

A slow nod. " In case of mutual enemies that is quite understandable and should problems within Aztlan occur we will assist you to the best of our capabilities. Your suggestion is acceptable, I assure you that you will get every intel from here to San Maria. As for manoeuvres, I will reinforce the first fleet within the week, this is our crown jewel to participate..."
He was on his verge to speak further when a multiple 'ping' was heard. Three hands went into their pockets.
" I believe it's high time to react. He holds out his messenger until he saw that the President got the same message."
" I must coordinate a response and I must speak with Joao. This can't go on."
He stood abruptly. " If you have more things to discuss, Princess Victoria has my full authority in all matters."
Victoria couldn't hide a small smirk, yes that was her father, efficient, brutal and spontaneous.
" Well I guess we can't give you much more than a defence pact that could interest you, this would add a clause to the Castellonian Canal of course. Did you hear of it? We will probably cut down travelling time for ship trade by a fifth with this. It will take a year or two to construct it but after that, I believe the trade within the region will increase immensely. Just another project of my father to increase the importance of the Kingdom. At this rate, we will be a solid secondary power when he steps down. "
She pointed at a small spot on the map where Manches was located.
" Of course this will also mean that Manches will become an important customer. There is a small exclusive Club of Nations who won't be hampered by the fees that much gaining a tactical advantage in the regional trade. I don't want this that much, we want more competition in the market so to speak and the Trade Federation has a lot of sway in the international market. My proposal is simple, you cut down the tariffs for certain products from Castellion and in exchange, we can cut down the charges of the Canal a bit. Naturally, we would also cut down the traffics on certain Manchessian products as well. It's not the best solution but it's something I can sell to the board of commissioners in charge of the Canal project. This would concern mainly our high tech industries, Computers, Medicine oh and did I mention the Oil Reserves we have? Just keep that in mind."