Navy Commissioning Ceremony (Closed, invite only)

by **Trixtoria** » Mon Jan 28, 2019 11:36 am

A flock of seagulls flew past overhead, light waves broke upon the seawall, grey clouds were spread apart covering half the sky. The air was crisp, with a light breeze blowing in across the harbor. All in all, the perfect day to celebrate the Empire's newest nautical achievement.

Imperator Skott Roman stepped up to the podium and took a moment to slowly gaze around. He faced a group of temporary bleachers, set up for various invited guests, both civilian and military. Just to his left was a special seating area filled with VIP's from allied nations, plus representatives from Silverport Dockyards and BlueSteel Corp., the prime contractors. Off to his right was open water. As for behind him...

He took a moment to turn his head and gaze upon the wall of grey steel rising out of the water next to the dock, knowing the cameras would capture the moment. His eyes admired the lines of the brand new Challenger-class aircraft carrier as it sat waiting....waiting to be unleashed upon the ocean. With a nod of satisfaction, he turned back to the waiting crowd.

"Fellow citizens, honored guests....I stand before you a proud man. Proud in this great accomplishment that our Empire has achieved. Proud in the allies," he nodded towards the VIP's, "that assisted and guided us through the great project. For after today we are no longer a minor player on the world stage. Today marks the beginning of a new era for the Empire! Today we become a true blue water navy! Today we show the world that Trixtoria intends to make our mark upon history!"

He waited for the applause to die down before continuing. "It is my honor to preside over the christening and commissioning of this magnificent ship. She, and her sisters, will carry Trixtorian prestige and honor across the globe. They will be the Shield that defends our people from any force of evil that tries to invade our homeland!"

Another round of applause, and he turned to face the back of the stage, where a small platform led from the dock to the side of the ship's hull. Standing there were two people. One, an older man in a blue military uniform with four gold stars on his shoulders and a chest full of medals. Next to him was a teenage girl wearing an elegant saffire blue dress, her red-gold hair braided and hanging down over her back. The Imperator nodded at the officer, who returned the nod and turned to the girl. "Duchess Sarra," he said, the microphone on his collar carrying his voice to the loudspeakers, "as Grand Admiral of the Federal Defense Force, it is my honor to invite you to name this magnificent ship." Another officer stepped up to hand him a bottle, which he passed to the Duchess. She took a moment to grasp the neck, and thought about her first diplomatic mission, which set the path leading to this day. Of the time she spent acting as the Ship's Sponsor, working with the dockyard and navel crews as they built, tested, and made ready their new ocean home.

She looked out upon the crowd. "It has been an honor to be the sponsor of this great ship," she said into her collar mic. The worlds were practiced, and she found herself speaking them with ease. "Standing alongside the men and women who built her, and the Navy crew who will man her." She paused for effect, something her father suggested to do. "I name this ship Challenger! May God bless her, and all who sail in her!" The crowd went silent, and after a deep breath, she swung the bottle of Trixtorian Ale against the side of the hull, where it broke instantly. The crowd all stood and applauded, as the nearby military band started playing the national anthem. Moments later, a flight of F-14 Tomcat fighters flew past in diamond formation.

It was several minutes until the applause died down as people returned to their seats, before the Imperator stepped back up to the podium. The Grand Admiral was with him. "Grand Admiral Ramius," he said, "your ship completed it's sea trials and has been named by its sponsor. Are your sailors ready to assume their duties aboard?"

"Yes sir," Ramius replied, and turned to another officer standing to the side of the stage. This one had four silver stars on his shoulders. "Captain Lerner, please present your crew."

The captain lead a group of officers and ratings up to the stage, all marching in perfect step. They came to a halt and as one turned to face the podium. "Grand Admiral, My Lord," the captain said, nodding at each man in turn, "the first watch is ready to assume their duties, and I am ready to take command." He saluted the Admiral, who returned the salute.

The Imperator stepped forward. "I hereby commission, Federal Trixtorian Ship Challenger!" He turned to salute the ship, as the quartermaster raised the national flag on the ship's mast. A few more minutes passed as the Captain formally ordered the first watch to be set, and the crew marched aboard.
Finally, the Imperator stepped over to Captain Lerner.

"Captain," he asked, "is my flagship ready?"

"The Challenger is fully at your command, sir," Captain Lerner gave the formal response.

Another exchange of salutes. "Your orders," Imperator Skott said, "are to prepare your crew for their mission, to defend our homeland wherever needed. To be on watch in the name of our freedom. And to be ready to execute the orders of your Imperator." He saluted. "Captain, report to your bridge."

Captain Lerner returned the salute, exchanged one with the Grand Admiral, and followed his crew aboard the ship. The band stared playing again to another round of applause.

-------------------------------------------------------

At the close of the ceremony, the various VIP's were lead into the hanger of the carrier, where a formal lounge had been set up between two parked F-14 fighters. Imperator Roman greeted them. "My friends, welcome. I am honored to have you all with us today for this great occasion. That's the end of the speeches," he said with a laugh. "Please, enjoy our hospitality. There is plenty of food and wine available. I look forward to speaking with each of you." As the dignitaries began to mingle, he turned to his daughter. "One glass of wine," he whispered, "and congratulations. You were great."

"Thanks, father," she replied, giving him a quick hug. "It was...nervous, but fun!"

"Good. Now get something to eat," he told her. "I have some people I need to speak with..."

by **The Selkie** » Mon Jan 28, 2019 12:34 pm

Commissioning Ceremony of FTS Challenger.
If one looked for the delegation from the Free Lands and from SDY, one did not need to look further then to the VIP stands. Sitting there was an assembly of four people, who watched with intent and interest.
Two women were of Silverport Dockyards Limited, which built the Challenger and her sisters, as well as the Trixtor-class, under construction contracts.
Another woman was of the Foreign Office, the last person was of the SDF-Navy.
One would, immediately, gather, that they were Selkie, at least in case of the three women, for all three wore Geansai, the Tribal Garnments of their people.
From the Foreign Office, Marla Cróimiam of the Tribe of Cork was, after Donald Crionna had retired, not only the errand girl of the Foreign Office, but also the go-to person for trips, which needed presence of the Foreign Office, but not much of their involvement - and if that would become necessary, she was experienced enough and authorized enough to involve herself.
She was a bluenette, her long hair in a braid, a few strands framing her face while she watched the ceremony with her blue eyes. She was average-sized for a Selkie, except in one department, but she did not mind, for while the young woman 28 Springs was quite good looking, she was a Swordfighter, a sportswoman, and diplomat, two jobs, which occupied her full time. She wore Carman Fea's Colours.
From SDY, one of the most influential and largest companies in the Free Lands, the CEO had come, Nora Cathlong of the Tribe of Cork herself. The black-haired woman with the red-brown eyes was a businesswoman, her hair bound back. She was well in her fifties, but she looked as if she barely began her thirties... if Marla was honest, she was a bit envious. She wore Cork's colours, the orange and dark blue.
Present as well was her daughter and chief engineer, Gwen Cathlong, who also headed Yard 15, the office for Prototype Development. Her blue eyes sparkled as she looked at the massive ship - the planes were uninteresting to her, but what their workers had done so far away from home was what she was interested in. And she knew the blueprints, but not the final results.
The last person wore the Blue Dress of the SDF-Navy, a brown-haired and blue eyes man of tall built, a wardrobe from the Northern Islands. Captain Liam Fearg of the Tribe of Cavan was Captain of the Frigate SDFS Carman Fea, which was currently given a once-over in a dock in Wembury after her first longer cruise. He watched the ceremony with mixed eyes: On one hand, Trixtoria was an ally and partner of the Free Lands, so the better they were armed, the better for the Free Lands. On the other, this carrier and her sisters shifted the balance of power within the region.
It would be an interesting next few years, the Selkie knew.
All of them had other reasons to believe that.

Reception.
The reception was set up between two of the fighters. Fearg did not have a high opinion of the Tomcat, but that was his problem - she was a capable plane.
In any case, after the initial address of the Imperator, the Selkie applauded politely, then remained as one group for a minute, taking in refreshments to be ready for the after show party. None of them touched the wine.
As they were finished, and the Imperator had sent off his daughter, Nora motioned to Liam to follow her as she approached the Imperator, the Captain doing as he had been told. The two women would be able to handle themselves.
As the Foreign Office would be keeping the profile relatively low, Marla would keep a low profile.
In any case, Nora smiled widely as she came into talking range: "Imperator Roman, it is a great pleasure to finally meet Your Majesty in person!", she greeted and put her hand over her heart, bowing her head. A gesture of a respectful greeting usually reserved for Members of the Elder Council. "I heard so many things about You, that I could not resist the temptation... that, and of course seeing this beautiful vessel commissioned. She turned out to be a pretty lady!"
"Indeed she is.", Fearg said with happiness in his voice, bowing his head with his hand over his heart as well. "Captain Liam Fearg of the Tribe of Cavan, SDF-Navy. It is a pleasure to meet You, Your Majesty."

by **Port Ember** » Mon Jan 28, 2019 12:38 pm

(The character depicted here is Minister Jan Breytenbach. He is the Minister of Defence in the Republic of Port Ember. The 48 year old man is tallish at 1.83 meters, but with a sturdy build. He is a veteran of many conflicts- and his body is proof of this: sturdy and muscled, grey hair and hard skin. Old age was visible on his face, his combat lifestyle has made him look older than he is. However looking at his face one could easily see that he used to be a handsome man in his youth. The most impressive feature of the man however was not physical. It was his air of confidence and his commanding presence, combined with a deep dark voice. His blue eyes were a bit dull due to partial vision loss- but one could easily see that those eyes have seen a lifetime of violence and horror).

The Minister was thouroughly impressed with the ceremony and he carried a very soft discreet smile on his face, which was unuasal for a man not known for smiling.

Jan approached Imperator Roman slowly and extended a warm greeting. "Imperator.. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Minister Jan Breytenbach - Defence Minister of Port Ember. First off allow me to humbly thank you for the extended invatation to this prestigious event. My President wished me the oppertunity to thank you personally on his behalf.

Secondly I wish to congratulate you on this marvelous and sucessful ceremony. Very impressive! Your speech, your daughters charisma and presence, your naval personnel's drills - and offcourse that marvelous piece of steel that brought us all here. Marvelous!"

by **Trixtoria** » Mon Jan 28, 2019 12:54 pm

Skott Roman, Imperator of Trixtoria, watched as the visiting guests from the other nations mixed among themselves. After a few moments, a small group came up to him at once. He had expected to quickly speak with each party, as the Selkie people were directly responsible for the ship's creation, and the representatives from Port Ember were here to discuss building similar ships for their own navy.

"My friends," he extended his arms to indicate Nora and Captain Fearg, along with Minister Breytenbach. "Thank you all for coming! I am delighted to meet all of you finally. This is a great day for us!" He nodded at the Selkie's. "Minister Breytenbach, without the help and support of the Selkie's and their shipyards, we wouldn't have been able to build this new class of carriers. They have been invaluable as partners in this project. I was hoping to get us all together for a chat concerning your nation's own carrier needs." He gestured them towards a nearby table. "Please, let's all sit down. This is an informal talk, so please feel free to speak freely."

by **The Selkie** » Mon Jan 28, 2019 1:01 pm

"Thank You, Your Majesty.", Nora said and turned towards the table.
As they made the few quick steps, she looked to Minister Jan Breytenbach, a man, about whom she heard a lot about, especially concerning his career path. Plus, she had wanted to speak with him about the building of his own carriers - they had been in contact with each other about that.
Fearg pulled the chair out for her, then sat down next to her.
His face was unreadable.
"Indeed, we all came together not only to commission this magnificent vessel, but also to see, how we can help each other further.", Nora spoke, nodding to both men, then turning to Breytenbach. "Please allow me to first express, that it is my pleasure to finally meet you in person, Mister Breytenbach - Nora Cathlong of the Tribe of Cork, we had been in contact via letters." She let a beat pass. "This gentleman is Captain Liam Fearg of the Tribe of Cavan, SDFS Carman Fea."
"And detached for a diplomatic mission.", he said with a small smile, "I would love to talk shop with you later, if time permits, Minister, but for now, allow me to simply listen and to, hopefully, give good advice in my function."

by **Port Ember** » Mon Jan 28, 2019 1:12 pm

The Minister greeted the Selkies individually, offering a sturdy handshake to the males and a gentlemanly kiss-on-the-hand of the females. The Minister ensured all the females, and the Imperator had taken a seat before he sat down amongst the group.

"Your Highness you honor me with the oppertunity to engage in informal talks with you. I wish to appologise in advance for any incorrect act of customs on my behalf. I am but a simple man. An old warrior and servant of my people."

The minister turned towards the Selkies "Your nation deserves a massive pat on the back. What you have constructed here.. is marvelous. The Naval Command of Port Ember was very impressed with the reports you have forwarded us. I must be outright and tell you, Port Ember, with its Navy and our President's full support is very excited regarding the possible oppertunity to acquire a few of these dragons.."

by **Trixtoria** » Wed Jan 30, 2019 8:09 am

Folding his hands together, Imperator Roman smiled at Minister Breytenbach. "No apologies necessary," he said. "As I said, this is an informal setting, no need to worry about customs here. Simple politeness and respect will suffice just fine." His daughter stepped over to stand behind him as he continued. "I had hoped to get time for us to discuss the needs of your military. Hopefully, our friends," he waved a hand to indicate the Selkie's, "can help us come up with a plan for the possible building of more Challenger-class ships for you. Apart from Challenger herself, the second ship is nearly completed, with two more hulls about..." he glanced at Nora "...what would you say, seventy percent completed? Which will give my forces four total ships, which meets our current requirements." He started counting on his fingers. "One each for our two defense fleets, one for blue-water operations, and a fourth for training and replacing another ship undergoing refit." He looked up at one of the fighter planes parked next to the makeshift lounge area. "I would be willing to supply aircraft, if you need them. We manufacture both F-14 Tomcats and F-18 Hornets under license for our needs, and can provide some to your future ships." He held up a hand before anyone else could speak. "I know, Tomcats aren't exactly the latest and greatest. But the are an excellent fleet defense interceptor. And they will suffice until our replacement fighter project is completed. But let's discuss your exact needs...."

by **Port Ember** » Wed Jan 30, 2019 8:48 am

The minister listened attentively to Imperator Roman as he spoke. He gave off a soft almost invisible smile. He liked this man. When Nora spoke, the minister's eyes grew a shade darker. Her passion for life reminded him of his own daughter- whom he have lost a few years back - to a terrorist attack in Port Ember. His face never showed his true pain.

"Your highness, my wants is simple. I want, nay- need four carriers in the water as quick as possible. let me explain my situation:

Port Ember is a VERY (He stressed and paused here) wealthy nation.. who have only recently entered the world politics game. We have been major players in international trade for over a hundred years- but kept to ourselves. However we were forced into the global political game recently, and have already fought - and won (he smiled broadly for the first time) three wars in the last five years. We have also aquired a new colony...which have pissed off. (Cough).. appologies.. iritated world powers.

I have 5 Flotillas in the water as we speak, one is home defence and does not require a carrier.. but my other four flotillas is force projection fleets and is carrier groups. Now i have four operational carriers, but they are old. I need the Challenger class to rejuvanise my fleet. Time is of the essence here.

Concerning production.. Port Ember is a major ship construction power, and could easily build these ladies ourselves. We have manpower, experience and world class infrastructure. The project will obviously remain in the custody of our friends here (looking at the Selkies).

I must stress the fact that financial constraints is non existing. Both Trixtoria and Selkia will gain immensely from this deal.

As for the planes.. I am happy with them. They have a good service history. My nation is developing a new fighter, but will only be ready in five years. These birds will do well for now."

by **The Selkie** » Wed Jan 30, 2019 12:09 pm

Trixtoria wrote:Folding his hands together, Imperator Roman smiled at Minister Breytenbach. "No apologies necessary," he said. "As I said, this is an informal setting, no need to worry about customs here. Simple politeness and respect will suffice just fine." His daughter stepped over to stand behind him as he continued. "I had hoped to get time for us to discuss the needs of your military. Hopefully, our friends," he waved a hand to indicate the Selkie's, "can help us come up with a plan for the possible building of more Challenger-class ships for you. Apart from Challenger herself, the second ship is nearly completed, with two more hulls about..." he glanced at Nora "...what would you say, seventy percent completed? Which will give my forces four total ships, which meets our current requirements." He started counting on his fingers. "One each for our two defense fleets, one for blue-water operations, and a fourth for training and replacing another ship undergoing refit." He looked up at one of the fighter planes parked next to the makeshift lounge area. "I would be willing to supply aircraft, if you need them. We manufacture both F-14 Tomcats and F-18 Hornets under license for our needs, and can provide some to your future ships." He held up a hand before anyone else could speak. "I know, Tomcats aren't exactly the latest and greatest. But the are an excellent fleet defense interceptor. And they will suffice until our replacement fighter project is completed. But let's discuss your exact needs...."

Port Ember wrote:The minister listened attentively to Imperator Roman as he spoke. He gave off a soft almost invisible smile. He liked this man. When Nora spoke, the minister's eyes grew a shade darker. Her passion for life reminded him of his own daughter- whom he have lost a few years back - to a terrorist attack in Port Ember. His face never showed his true pain.

"Your highness, my wants is simple. I want, nay- need four carriers in the water as quick as possible. let me explain my situation:

Port Ember is a VERY (He stressed and paused here) wealthy nation.. who have only recently entered the world politics game. We have been major players in international trade for over a hundred years- but kept to ourselves. However we were forced into the global political game recently, and have already fought - and won (he smiled broadly for the first time) three wars in the last five years. We have also aquired a new colony...which have pissed off. (Cough).. appologies.. iritated world powers.

I have 5 Flotillas in the water as we speak, one is home defence and does not require a carrier.. but my other four flotillas is force projection fleets and is carrier groups. Now i have four operational carriers, but they are old. I need the Challenger class to rejuvanise my fleet. Time is of the essence here.

Concerning production.. Port Ember is a major ship construction power, and could easily build these ladies ourselves. We have manpower, experience and world class infrastructure. The project will obviously remain in the custody of our friends here (looking at the Selkies).

I must stress the fact that financial constraints is non existing. Both Trixtoria and Selkia will gain immensely from this deal.

As for the planes.. I am happy with them. They have a good service history. My nation is developing a new fighter, but will only be ready in five years. These birds will do well for now."

Nora and the Captain listened to what was said with interest, the woman nodding at the assessment of the other two hulls - they were actually at around seventy-five percent, but she didn't want to be nitpicky, that was not the point.
When all was said, Nora was silent for a moment.
"There are two major problems, which I currently see.", she said, "One, time." She sat up straight, folded her hands and leaned forward slightly, elbows resting on the table's surface, speaking to both men. "You need these carriers quickly, for obvious reasons. We can launch the two new hulls within... call it three, four months, maybe faster, fitting out and commissioning would then take a bit of time as well - the yards here in Trixtoria would then be free to build these vessels you need here."
A beat passed.
"That would indeed give us a certain time-advantage as the workers here already know the Challenger-class and how to build her. We have the suppliers at the ready and the workers, too.", she said, then raised a hand, clarifying: "That is not a slight against Port Ember's impressive tradition of shipbuilding. I have heard of the magnificent vessels built here and to be honest, I see your shipbuilding industry as one of our main competitors in ten year's time, if not sooner."
She let a beat pass.
"The other issue is Port Ember's Domestic Shipbuilding Industry.", she said carefully, "Mainly due to one reason: They need to know, how to maintain a Challenger-class Aircraft Carrier. As you can imagine, that is not exactly easy."
She let another beat pass, looking from one man to the other.
"I could imagine, that we can do it like this: As soon as the other two hulls are finished for Trixtoria, the yards begin the construction of two Challenger-class Vessels for Port Ember. Right now, we lay down two Challenger-class Vessels in Port Ember, with technical assistance of SDY.", she explained, "That has the advantage of getting the dockworkers in Port Ember ready to maintain these magnificent ships, for when that is needed, and that we can finish two, the ones built here, quicker then the other two, which means, that they are available for operations quicker."
She looked from one to the other.
"How does that sound?", she asked.

by **Port Ember** » Wed Jan 30, 2019 1:26 pm

Jan's mind startes to wander. He still managed to listed attentively to Nora, but his mind wandered non the less.. Passionate, smart, guts.. just like his Claire.. images of his daughters bombtorn bloody corpse in his arms flashes though his minds eye.

A single small tear escapes his eye when Nora finished speaking. The Minister quickly slaps his face, pretending to chase an insect, to covertly rid his face of emotion.

"Mi' lady- that offer can put to shame any previous so named brilliant plans. That plan will suite my nation like a glove. Brilliant. Unless ofcourse there is any objections from any party here? We Port Emberians believes that a business relationship is to be treated like a close knit family relationship. Any ill feelings - especially unsaid ill feelings- is disasterous. I have none of those."

by **Trixtoria** » Thu Jan 31, 2019 8:19 am

Imperator Roman clasped his hands together. "Excellent! Then I believe we have a plan. We'll leave it up to the lawyers to handle the paperwork, but this should work out nicely." Turning to look at Jan. "Minister, I have an additional suggestion. While your ships are under construction, we can have a training program where your officers and sailors mix with the crew of Challenger and her next to finish sister, Avenger. Your people can train alongside my own and gain valuable experience before your first ship hits the water. We can also arrange to host a squadron at a time of your own carrier fighters aboard for carrier landing/takeoff training and qualifications. Simply put, joint training exercises."

While he was talking, another person approached the table. He appeared to be in his mid-twenties, and work a black suit with a red shirt and black tie. "Ah, Mr. Chihaya," Roman greeting him. "Please join us. My friends, this is Mr. Chihaya, the new head of the BlueSteel Corporation. BlueSteel," he said to Jan as Chihaya stood behind him and next to Sarra, "is our primary naval contractor here in Trixtoria. They work with Silverport Dockyards to operate and manage the shipyards built here. His father was originally the head of the company," looking to Nora,"whom you've been working with. However, he has retired and his son will be assuming responsibility now." He took a moment to scratch his chin. "This actually leads me to another topic. I would like to see BlueSteel expand itself onto the global market. How would you," again, focusing on Nora, "feel about BlueSteel, using the primary dockyard here in Trixtopolis, branching off as an subsidiary* of Silverport? They would design and market a few classes of ships, and as parent company, Silverport would get a handsome percentage of any profits. You would still have full control over the smaller yards in Philiptown and Davidville."

*(ooc: a possible storefront would mention "A Silverport Company" with link to your page)

by **The Selkie** » Thu Jan 31, 2019 1:47 pm

Port Ember wrote:Jan's mind startes to wander. He still managed to listed attentively to Nora, but his mind wandered non the less.. Passionate, smart, guts.. just like his Claire.. images of his daughters bombtorn bloody corpse in his arms flashes though his minds eye.

A single small tear escapes his eye when Nora finished speaking. The Minister quickly slaps his face, pretending to chase an insect, to covertly rid his face of emotion.

"Mi' lady- that offer can put to shame any previous so named brilliant plans. That plan will suite my nation like a glove. Brilliant. Unless ofcourse there is any objections from any party here? We Port Emberians believes that a business relationship is to be treated like a close knit family relationship. Any ill feelings - especially unsaid ill feelings- is disasterous. I have none of those."

Trixtoria wrote:Imperator Roman clasped his hands together. "Excellent! Then I believe we have a plan. We'll leave it up to the lawyers to handle the paperwork, but this should work out nicely." Turning to look at Jan. "Minister, I have an additional suggestion. While your ships are under construction, we can have a training program where your officers and sailors mix with the crew of Challenger and her next to finish sister, Avenger. Your people can train alongside my own and gain valuable experience before your first ship hits the water. We can also arrange to host a squadron at a time of your own carrier fighters aboard for carrier landing/takeoff training and qualifications. Simply put, joint training exercises."

While he was talking, another person approached the table. He appeared to be in his mid-twenties, and work a black suit with a red shirt and black tie. "Ah, Mr. Chihaya," Roman greeting him. "Please join us. My friends, this is Mr. Chihaya, the new head of the BlueSteel Corporation. BlueSteel," he said to Jan as Chihaya stood behind him and next to Sarra, "is our primary naval contractor here in Trixtoria. They work with Silverport Dockyards to operate and manage the shipyards built here. His father was originally the head of the company," looking to Nora,"whom you've been working with. However, he has retired and his son will be assuming responsibility now." He took a moment to scratch his chin. "This actually leads me to another topic. I would like to see BlueSteel expand itself onto the global market. How would you," again, focusing on Nora, "feel about BlueSteel, using the primary dockyard here in Trixtopolis, branching off as an subsidiary* of Silverport? They would design and market a few classes of ships, and as parent company, Silverport would get a handsome percentage of any profits. You would still have full control over the smaller yards in Philiptown and Davidville."

*(ooc: a possible storefront would mention "A Silverport Company" with link to your page)

Nora smiled as both men showed their approval - that would indeed be the option with the most advantages for all of them and, with the addition of Imperator Roman's proposal, it would even be better.
Minister Breytenbach's business philosophy was close to what she had been taught, taught to others and practiced herself, but the emotions on his face worried her. She would freely admit, that she hadn't looked too deeply into his personal history, but... whatever it was, it was troubling him deeply.
When Mister Chihaya approached the table, Nora recognized him, she remembered seeing him at a few smaller occasions, but never talking to him.
She listened to what was said, smiling at the younger man.
"An ambitious project, that is for sure.", she said, carefully, "Of course, pending further details and approval of the rest of the Board of Directors, I can not yet make a decision in any direction, but I am willing to listen." She let a beat pass. "I invited your father to Silverport a long time ago, Mister Chihaya, for a visit of our main facilities and a business dinner - I would be happy to talk about these details with you at a similar occasion."

by **Port Ember** » Thu Jan 31, 2019 2:01 pm

Jan agreed to the Imperator's proposal and was excited. Very excited. He knew the President would be very pleased with the outcome of this visit.

Realising that the specific matter at hand has been solved, he thanked everyone at the table with a firm handshake, and his signature gentlemanly kiss-on-the-hand for all females at the table (a long standing Port Emberian gesture of manners and respect).

Jan excused himself from the table- he had to be alone for a few seconds to strangle his damm sorrow- and he needed a smoke. Badly. Jan stepped outside, lit his thick cigar and took a deep drag. "Aah better".

by **The Selkie** » Thu Jan 31, 2019 2:19 pm

Gwen Cathlong was, quite honestly, bored out of her mind.
Marla was a nice woman, no question asked, but ever since her return from Operation Spartacus and all that went with it, she seemed... different. And not in a good way.
There were others, who knew her better to help her better then the engineer, but she was still worried. At some point, though, she excused herself from her company, to get some fresh air. The hangar was, even for her, who knew the ventilation systems, oppressively hot.
She stepped outside, by coincidence seeing Jan lighting a smoke.
"You know, Sir...", she said and smiled as she approached him, a little swing to her hips, "...the SDF-Navy and SDY usually forbid any sort of smoking on their vessels. I don't know the regulations of the Federal Defense Force, but to be honest..." She pulled out a small Píopa, a small Selkie-pipe, already filled with a blend. "...mind if I join you?"

by **Port Ember** » Thu Jan 31, 2019 3:12 pm

Jan watched the fine looking women approach him, and had to fight his nature not to stare. He wasint sure if he managed however. When she approached him and spoke to him, he let out a soft but deep chuckle. He smiled broadly, and without saying a word took out an cigar lighter - (zippo style) made of real gold with the Port Emberian Coat of Arms engraved on it. Jan, who lived a bit of a spartan lifestyle after the death of his daughter and subsequent divorce- had no time for material possessions. But he did have an attachment to this impressive lighter. It was a gift from President Edward Flint the day he retired from his post as the Marshal Security Forces and was appointed as the Defence Minister.

He lit the lighter and handed it to his new "accomplice".

"A lady who smokes pipe? That is impressive." He smiled broadly. "I'm a pipe smoker myself, cigars is just more convenient to smoke when on the road..

I never understood this non smoking regulation nonsense when i was serving. Hell I even smoked during combat while the enemy was firing off heat seaker missiles." -another deep chuckle- "and once them lads gives us a scolding for breaking the no smoking rules.. i'm saying you influenced me!" He gave a soft wink.

by **The Selkie** » Fri Feb 01, 2019 3:42 am

Gwen lit her pipe with a chuckle.
"Alright, I'll take the blame with dignity.", she said with a grin, leaning her back against the railing as she stood next to Jan. She took a small drag of her pipe. "I am an occasional smoker, though. A pipe of lavender blend every now and then and everything's good." She let a beat pass as the breeze played with her hair. "I must say, that I did not smoke in combat, but I do visit military bases quite often. They are quite strict, when it comes to not smoking, something about aviation fuel gases, but that all is summarily ignored, when you sit in the office of the Base's Commander."
She grinned at that, taking another drag.
"I take, that is a tobacco cigar?", she asked with a bit of interest, looking at what Jan was smoking.

by **Port Ember** » Fri Feb 01, 2019 5:13 am

Jan stretched his aching back slightly and his spine crackled softly back into its proper place.

'I do not care much for rules and warnings. My PA started a campaign of removing everyday warning labels at the office covertly, in an attepmt to make me stop violating them on purpose.. Simple pleasures you know" -soft chuckle-

"Indeed its a fine tabacco cigar- apparently aged for 7 years prior to be sold on the market. This reminds me - my assistant will hand you and your colleages, and the Imperator ofcourse a small gift. I think you will like it- Port Emberians has a liking for.." he paused and looked at Gwen from bottom to top slowly.. "nice things.." Jan displayed a soft smile again.

(The gift is a handcarved Ebony Box, with the Port Ember Coat of Arms engraved on it with real gold. Inside the box is twelve hand rolled cigars. The gold leaf tabbaco is home grown in Port Ember and aged 9 years - and is infused with Port Emberian Rum for aroma and flavor. This cigars can not be bought on the open market and is only given as gifts to Port Emberian allies. The package is estimated to be worth over 2 million NSD.)

by **The Selkie** » Fri Feb 01, 2019 2:41 pm

Gwen let him look her up and down as much as he wanted, smiled even coyly.
"We Selkie, too, like nice things.", she almost purred, unaware of what the gift actually entailed as they didn't get it so far. She did not hide a look up and down she gave Jan in return. "We also like beautiful things. And if both meet..." She took a drag of her pipe, turning around so that she now faced the sea, leaned forward slightly, her arms resting on the railing and the legs slightly angled, emphasizing their length, plus her bust. "... we are very happy."

by **Port Ember** » Fri Feb 01, 2019 3:02 pm

For a slight moment, Jan felt young again. He has forgotten the wonderfull feeling of euphoria flirting could cause.

He admired the view presented to him, by staring a little- and before it could become a uncomfortable stare, turned towards the sea aswel, took a deep drag on his cigar. "Ah yes.. like this marvelous ship we are standing upon.. and some.. things on it.."

by **The Selkie** » Sat Feb 02, 2019 4:47 pm

Gwen smiled.
"Like the planes?", she asked - she would not stand for being called a 'thing'. She was a woman and if he found her marvelous... she understood what he was getting at, she saw the euphoria in his eyes, but he should work a bit harder. "I must admit, that I don't really have a mind for planes, ships are more of my forte. The faster and nimbler they are, the better, but vessels impressive in their feats and construction are also quite nice."

by **Port Ember** » Sun Feb 03, 2019 1:57 am

(Jan did not realise at this time that he have accidentily offended Glen)

Jan gave of another soft, almost hidden smile. He knew the game was on. As a natural born warrior, nothing in this life brought him more satisfaction than facing a challenge- no matter in what form.

"Ah yes, i can agree with you on that matter mi' lady. Speed and agility has always been my personal choice in the oppisites debate.. For example i worked closely as an advisor on our recent Jolly Roger Missile Boat.

But yes the sheer amount of effort and mind boggling calculations that went into the Challenger, challenges the boundaries between science and art..

I personally admire any well designed machine, whether it is a ship, a plane or a land vehicle.. But I must admit, the greatest, best designed and most beautifull "engineering" feat has always been the human body. I can speak for days about the internal wonders of the human body. But as a simple man, one can simply not ignore the marvels of the aestetics.. the curves, porportions, the flow of flesh and skin.. some human bodies are simply.." took a quick smiling look at Gwen "masterpieces.."

by **The Selkie** » Sun Feb 03, 2019 4:54 am

Gwen nodded at the mentioning of the Jolly Roger - she had heard of those neat little missile boats and analyzed what was known about them and found them comparable to SDY's own Spéirling-class Fast Attack Craft.
The thing, which Jan might not be counting on, was, that Selkie might not be warriors, but people of Song and Dance, and that Selkie-Women had a long tradition of being a lot like lynxes playing with the mice that were their males.
"When it comes to the aestetics of living beings...", Gwen countered, "...there are some humans, which indeed are masterpieces." She did not elaborate on who she thought that to be, but her pose radiated self-confidence. She had noted his smile. "But, if I were to choose, from all the living things in this world as great achievements, I would choose canines, especially the mighty Búraló Liath, the Selkie Grey Wolf... and amongst them all, especially Sról, my steadfast companion... and the only man allowed into my bed."
She gave him a teasing wink.

by **Port Ember** » Sun Feb 03, 2019 5:44 am

Jan took another deep drag on his cigar and smiled broadly this time. Innocent flirting was always the cause of a small adrenaline rush for him- something which he craved deeply, being the adrenaline junky that he is.

"I will be honest to admit that I am no expert when it comes to Selkian indegionous animals. I would love to see this beasts you speak of one day. Port Emberians ourselves is great cabine admirers too. We even had a ranked Ember Terrier serving upon a naval vessel in the second world war.." soft chuckle "Sról must indeed then be something special. I would indeed be honoured to one day, shake his paw.."

by **The Selkie** » Sun Feb 03, 2019 8:09 am

"Oh, he is.", Gwen replied with a smile, "A male of high renown, cuddly, strong..."
She let a beat pass.
"If you want, I can show you an image.", she said and smiled slightly, her smartphone on her utility belt. "Just so that you know, what you can expect. He's about this tall." She held her hand around a metre above the ground. "At the head, of course. Do you have a pet?"
She smiled as she rose again.

by **Port Ember** » Sun Feb 03, 2019 8:55 am

The Selkie wrote:
Port Ember wrote:Jan took another deep drag on his cigar and smiled broadly this time. Innocent flirting was always the cause of a small adrenaline rush for him- something which he craved deeply, being the adrenaline junky that he is.

"I will be honest to admit that I am no expert when it comes to Selkian indegionous animals. I would love to see this beasts you speak of one day. Port Emberians ourselves is great cabine admirers too. We even had a ranked Ember Terrier serving upon a naval vessel in the second world war.." soft chuckle "Sról must indeed then be something special. I would indeed be honoured to one day, shake his paw.."

"Oh, he is.", Gwen replied with a smile, "A male of high renown, cuddly, strong..."
She let a beat pass.
"If you want, I can show you an image.", she said and smiled slightly, her smartphone on her utility belt. "Just so that you know, what you can expect. He's about this tall." She held her hand around a metre above the ground. "At the head, of course. Do you have a pet?"
She smiled as she rose again.

Jan smiled softly and looked softly at Gwen "i had a beautifull Island Shepard... My ex took her.. i did not get any new pets since, due to me being single now amd traveling alot.. But yes I would dearly love to see your gentlebeast"

Navy Commissioning Ceremony (Closed, invite only)

Navy Commissioning Ceremony (Closed, invite only)

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