Culhuaca wrote:"I think that would be interesting, sir," she says. "Mr. Joaquín is my adviser on substantive foreign policy." She gestured briefly to the foreign ministry representative. "I think he might be a more comfortable contact with a Communist regime than I." She gave a small shrug and then smiled at the Emperor's reaction to her question. "Reasonable people. That's good to know." For Communists.
She followed the emperor's gaze to Father Silvano. "Yes, sir. We are a Catholic monarchy and, of course, we are all Christians. There are Protestants in Culhuaca. I don't believe your Church of Excalbia has a presence but there are Anglican and Baptist groups. Charismatic and Restorationist Christian groups have grown a lot in recent years." She paused, her blush returning. "I'm sorry, sir. Most Protestants don't consider Restorationism a part of Protestantism, do they?"
"A large majority of our people are Catholic and an overwhelming majority are Christian. The rest are mostly Jews, Muslims, and non-religious people, although there's also been a revival of some traditional indigenous belief systems. Adapted to modern conditions, of course." Which was a polite way of saying sacrifices were not allowed in Culhuaca. "Freedom of conscience and of worship is constitutionally protected in our country."
The Emperor nodded and appeared to look at the ground for a moment. “My understanding is that Restorationism is a rather broad term that can encompass anything from recognizable Protest denominations, like the Disciples of Christ, to groups considered more… marginal by most orthodox Christian denominations. So, it would be hard to say, for instance, whether the Church of Excalbia would consider Restorationist groups in your country Protestants, or even Christians, without knowing more about the particular group.”
Looking up and bestowing a smile on the young archduchess, the Emperor added, “In any case, I applaud your country for recognising and practicing religious freedom. It is a fundamental human right all too often denied.”
The Emperor uncrossed his arms. “In fact, it sounds like our countries hold some values in common. Since you’ve brought an advisor from your foreign ministry, perhaps we should look to establish normal diplomatic relations.”
The Emperor glanced about and called out to an attractive woman in a red gown with square framed glasses. “Lady Christina, a moment, if you please.”
The woman approached and bowed to the Emperor. “Your Imperial Majesty,” she said.
“Madam, may I present our Minister of State, Lady Christina Freedman,” he said turning to Carlota. Then, to Lady Christina he said, “Lady Christina, may I present Archduchess Carlota of Culhuaca. She’s been telling me a bit about her country and I think it may be worth exploring the establishment of diplomatic relations.”
“Of course, Your Imperial Majesty,” Lady Christina said with another slight bow. Then turning to Carlota she said, “Your Grace, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”
The Emperor turned to Carlota and gave a quick bow. “It was a pleasure to meet you, Madam, but you’ll forgive me if I go greet some of our other guests.” He looked towards his Minister of State. “However, I leave you in competent hands with Lady Christina.”