How to make friends in four days (CLOSED)

[Kyrenaia]

Hello and welcome to How to make friends in four days!
This RP is closed to me, Kyrenaia, and Mervay, detailing a state visit of Queen Callista to Kyrenaia. You are welcome to read along, though!

mfg,
Kyrenaia

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Utica International Airport, 50 kilometers from Utica.
Utica International was a huge airport: Six runways, one of them for the gigantic Sinaljanah S-900 Eimlaq Turboprop Airliner (one of them stood at the ready in parking position, it's engines off), a huge terminal with three quarters of it underground, a tower, which seemed large enough to pierce the heavens itself...
...and not one military plane in sight.
Sure, the Armed Forces would use this airport in times of need, but right now, this was a wholly civilian airport and proud of it.
I stood under a canopy, at the end of a red carpet, detachments of the Airport Fire Department and the Airport Police Station lining the red carpet in lieu of a platoon of soldiers - those would come soon enough. With me under the canopy was Sarina Eahira, my Personal Handmaiden, who carried a tablet with high flute glasses filled with water, as part of an old gesture of friendship and appreciation.
And we would appreciate our guests: Queen Callista IV of Mervay led a delegation to the Sultanate, one of the many steps in the Kyrenaian diplomatic initiative aimed at not only becoming more friendly with the power of the Strategic and Economic Alliance, but also to reach a sort-of agreement, something we all could profit from if Kyrenaia could reach entrance to SEA's markets with reduced tariffs.
We had no hopes of achieving zero tariffs, that was reserved for SEA-Members and we didn't want to join SEA, but reduced tariffs would be a good advantage.
That, and improved relations with another major power was always something nice.
Hence why I stood here, dressed in Firstan Alshams and would welcome our guest - as the Granddaughter of the Sultana, there was of course a reason as to why I had been asked to welcome Callista. Usually, the platform for visitors and spectators, where they would watch planes, would be crowded by people wanting to see the visitor of state as well, but due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, it was closed down. The airport, however, had asked for people to send their banners for them to set them up on the platform, which resulted in many banners being displayed, welcoming Callista and her delegation, wishing them and Mervay good health and so on.
Cameras streamed everything into the internet and into TV, where, to my knowledge, KBC was showing everything live. And there would be a lot to see: After I would welcome her and her delegation, we would go inside of the terminal, where Callista and her company would meet some people of the airport and of the security.
Then, a special tram would take us from Utica International to Utica Central Railway Station and from there, we would take an escorted carriage ride through the city to the Palace of the Azure Hall, where they would be welcomed by the Sultana. She had told me, that she had something special in mind, but she had not said anything as to what...
Anyway, I stood here and waited in the October Heat of Utica - it was morning, so we were in the middle 20° Celsius, it would get a lot hotter, the Lioness gazed upon us, the sky was blue and not a cloud in sight.
Typical.
It would get drastically hotter over the day.
"Princess.", an aide from the airport said and approached me, stopping just shy of two meters in distance - COVID-19 and thus social distancing. "Air Control reports the plane carrying our guests has entered our airspace. Arrival time around five minutes."
I nodded. "Thank you."
As soon as he was gone, I took a deep breath.
This was not my first diplomatic job, I had accompanied Dad as a Special Junior Ambassador before I was allowed to vote for Utica's Mayor (technically, as Royalty, I didn't vote), but it was always something special.
Calm down, Aurelia. It would all turn out well in the end!

[Mervay]

Agustinas Florenze Da Mervay
En Route to Utica International Airport
The White Angel; Symbol of Mervayan Diplomacy ever since the beginning of the era of the airplane. This wasn't the exception neither as the plane was once again on another diplomatic travel, this time to Kyrenaia. The Sultanate was a key location to the nation in terms of trade and politics; they needed to have the Kyrenarians on their side as allies of Asteria, something which at least had a few difficult issues out; AHSCA and The Free Lands. Both nations were also Asteria's allies and so of Kyrenaia, which meant that at least two issues were taken down before this and could possibly make things more dynamic in the diplomatic field. The economy also played it's hand too.
They wouldn't leave unless they have a trade deal which is a win-win for both nations entirely; alongside other aspects that needed to be talked about.

That is why Her Majesty had under her command in the delegation to the two most qualified and excellent people in the nation to handle both aspects of Diplomacy and Economics such as Her Majesty's Most Honourable Chancellor, Jessica Dileva, and; Her Majesty's Most Honourable Treasurer, Lorentz Vanderbilt. Both of them had distinguished careers over the last decade and as such they got there thanks to their abilities; Dileva got there thanks to her handling of diplomatic approach alongside keeping peace in Bolganio between Apotos and Yuktobania during their skirmishes in 2014 as the Ambassador of Mervay to Apotos and was able to set a peace treaty between both nations alongside her successes on being the main voice calling for the nation to enter the SEA and the establishment of the Alliance with AHSCA. In other words; whoever dares to say she got there thanks to her husband, they can look back at her achievements and see the opposite.

Vanderbilt meanwhile; was a well renowed economist across the nation alongside being a well trusted advisor on economic matters in The ECR (Economic Council of Rosaria); he was assigned as Minister in the first days of the Vianna administration around 2018.

However they weren't alone neither; per Her Majesty's decree and orders, two of Mervay's most renowed and powerful businesspeople were to be present to serve as observators. Those names were The CEO's of their respective economical groups; Edward Dileva from the well renowed Dileva Group and Athena Freezis from the historical, yet powerful, Freezis Group. Both of them were the some of most powerful people in the nation thanks to their economic influence and prestige.

They were the observers of the summit and were also there to do business too. It was always a good way to do that and get their spot on the market after all.

Her Majesty meanwhile; well, for her young age she has been saw as the perfect successor to her parents thanks to her studies on the related fields to lead the nation and the passion and love she has for it, she was also known alongside being someone who's young age is very serious and cold when it comes to state matters, but also warm and cheerful when out of them, like if she had a switch for that. Certainly considering she has been recommended (and by recommended it means forced by Chancellor Dileva and his husband, Treasurer Vanderbilt, Lady Freezis and her family because of the fact that she didn't took a break for a while and were worried of her health) to take a break and relax during the travel while they do the work; so perhaps there won't be much of that cold and serious person unless needed.

The plane would land and taxi it's way spot on to the red carpet prepared for them. Needless to say if Aurelia has and certainly; heard of the foreign minister from Mervay, it will certainly be sure that they will meet in less akward circunstances than the one they had two years ago, but that's something that isn't related to the question.

The immaculate plane would let out first an speaker, whose mission was to present the delegation.

"Presenting Her Majesty's Right Honourable Chancellor and Her Husband, The Right Honourable Merchant; Dr's. Jessica Dileva and Edward Dileva!" He first exclaimed to let the couple walk the carpet to the other end where Aurelia would be present. Ahh the lovely couple was first; both with different objectives for their travel as one went with corporative ones and the other with state ones. They smiled warmly at the Princess and her guard alongside bowing at them before standing aside as the speaker would say the next name.

"Presenting Her Majesty's Right Honourable Treasurer; Dr. Lorentz Vanderbilt!." The speaker once again said outloud while the minister walked down the carpet to meet the one reciving them. Compared to the first ones, he was very serious and strict but very respectful too; he let a smile in respect to their host while bowing at them and moving aside.

"Presenting Her Right Honourable Merchant; Lady Athena Freezis!" It was the turn of the businesswoman now which; as the first one, came here for the same reason. Luckily enough she had enough rest back in the free lands with someone she deeply cared for to be ready for this long trip. Athena bowed with a great respect at the Princess and her handmaiden before getting besides the rest of the delegation as the last person required their utmost respect.

"Presenting last; but most importantly! Her Most Royal Majesty of Mervay and The Mervayans; Callista IV of Mervay!!" The speaker exclaimed while bowing entirely to the queen while she walked through the carpet. Her aura and glare showed a kind, warmful and cheerful woman alongside the qualities of a head of state; it's coldness or seriousness, it's massive respect, leadership and passion.

She passed in and saluted the soldiers with a warm and cheerful grin on her face, as a sign of thanking them for reciving her and the rest of the delegation; the same thing was done with The Princess and her handmaiden as she bowed with respect at them and in a very formal manner like the rest of the bows given before her.

"Your Highness; It is an honour to meet you and I thank you for being the one greeting us." She said while smiling warmly at her.

"If it would be possible, we would like to present you some gifts as sign of respect and appreciation for such gracious invitation." Agus said while gesturing the entire delegation to present their gifts as a sign of respect their own gesture of appreciation. Each of the members of the delegation handed over to Aurelia those gifts of which if described they would be jewelry, daggers, a collection of coins from the XI to XIII century and from her majesty's hands; a exact copy of a sword used by the knights of the Royal Guard during the the late X Century during the war of independence.

[Kyrenaia]

Agustinas Florenze Da Mervay
En Route to Utica International Airport
The White Angel; Symbol of Mervayan Diplomacy ever since the beginning of the era of the airplane. This wasn't the exception neither as the plane was once again on another diplomatic travel, this time to Kyrenaia. The Sultanate was a key location to the nation in terms of trade and politics; they needed to have the Kyrenarians on their side as allies of Asteria, something which at least had a few difficult issues out; AHSCA and The Free Lands. Both nations were also Asteria's allies and so of Kyrenaia, which meant that at least two issues were taken down before this and could possibly make things more dynamic in the diplomatic field. The economy also played it's hand too.
They wouldn't leave unless they have a trade deal which is a win-win for both nations entirely; alongside other aspects that needed to be talked about.

That is why Her Majesty had under her command in the delegation to the two most qualified and excellent people in the nation to handle both aspects of Diplomacy and Economics such as Her Majesty's Most Honourable Chancellor, Jessica Dileva, and; Her Majesty's Most Honourable Treasurer, Lorentz Vanderbilt. Both of them had distinguished careers over the last decade and as such they got there thanks to their abilities; Dileva got there thanks to her handling of diplomatic approach alongside keeping peace in Bolganio between Apotos and Yuktobania during their skirmishes in 2014 as the Ambassador of Mervay to Apotos and was able to set a peace treaty between both nations alongside her successes on being the main voice calling for the nation to enter the SEA and the establishment of the Alliance with AHSCA. In other words; whoever dares to say she got there thanks to her husband, they can look back at her achievements and see the opposite.

Vanderbilt meanwhile; was a well renowed economist across the nation alongside being a well trusted advisor on economic matters in The ECE (Economic Council of Europa); he was assigned as Minister in the first days of the Vianna administration around 2018.

However they weren't alone neither; per Her Majesty's decree and orders, two of Mervay's most renowed and powerful businesspeople were to be present to serve as observators. Those names were The CEO's of their respective economical groups; Edward Dileva from the well renowed Dileva Group and Athena Freezis from the historical, yet powerful, Freezis Group. Both of them were the some of most powerful people in the nation thanks to their economic influence and prestige.

They were the observers of the summit and were also there to do business too. It was always a good way to do that and get their spot on the market after all.

Her Majesty meanwhile; well, for her young age she has been saw as the perfect successor to her parents thanks to her studies on the related fields to lead the nation and the passion and love she has for it, she was also known alongside being someone who's young age is very serious and cold when it comes to state matters, but also warm and cheerful when out of them, like if she had a switch for that. Certainly considering she has been recommended (and by recommended it means forced by Chancellor Dileva and his husband, Treasurer Vanderbilt, Lady Freezis and her family because of the fact that she didn't took a break for a while and were worried of her health) to take a break and relax during the travel while they do the work; so perhaps there won't be much of that cold and serious person unless needed.

The plane would land and taxi it's way spot on to the red carpet prepared for them. Needless to say if Aurelia has and certainly; heard of the foreign minister from Mervay, it will certainly be sure that they will meet in less akward circunstances than the one they had two years ago, but that's something that isn't related to the question.

The immaculate plane would let out first an speaker, whose mission was to present the delegation.

"Presenting Her Majesty's Right Honourable Chancellor and Her Husband, The Right Honourable Merchant; Dr's. Jessica Dileva and Edward Dileva!" He first exclaimed to let the couple walk the carpet to the other end where Aurelia would be present. Ahh the lovely couple was first; both with different objectives for their travel as one went with corporative ones and the other with state ones. They smiled warmly at the Princess and her guard alongside bowing at them before standing aside as the speaker would say the next name.

"Presenting Her Majesty's Right Honourable Treasurer; Dr. Lorentz Vanderbilt!." The speaker once again said outloud while the minister walked down the carpet to meet the one reciving them. Compared to the first ones, he was very serious and strict but very respectful too; he let a smile in respect to their host while bowing at them and moving aside.

"Presenting Her Right Honourable Merchant; Lady Athena Freezis!" It was the turn of the businesswoman now which; as the first one, came here for the same reason. Luckily enough she had enough rest back in the free lands with someone she deeply cared for to be ready for this long trip. Athena bowed with a great respect at the Princess and her handmaiden before getting besides the rest of the delegation as the last person required their utmost respect.

"Presenting last; but most importantly! Her Most Royal Majesty of Mervay and The Mervayans; Callista IV of Mervay!!" The speaker exclaimed while bowing entirely to the queen while she walked through the carpet. Her aura and glare showed a kind, warmful and cheerful woman alongside the qualities of a head of state; it's coldness or seriousness, it's massive respect, leadership and passion.

She passed in and saluted the soldiers with a warm and cheerful grin on her face, as a sign of thanking them for reciving her and the rest of the delegation; the same thing was done with The Princess and her handmaiden as she bowed with respect at them and in a very formal manner like the rest of the bows given before her.

"Your Highness; It is an honour to meet you and I thank you for being the one greeting us." She said while smiling warmly at her.

"If it would be possible, we would like to present you some gifts as sign of respect and appreciation for such gracious invitation." Agus said while gesturing the entire delegation to present their gifts as a sign of respect their own gesture of appreciation. Each of the members of the delegation handed over to Aurelia those gifts of which if described they would be jewelry, daggers, a collection of coins from the XI to XIII century and from her majesty's hands; a exact copy of a sword used by the knights of the Royal Guard during the the late X Century during the war of independence.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Utica International Airport.
I smiled as the plane came to a stop - the announcer called out who left when.
First, of course, the Dilevas. The Chancellor and an industrialist, one being in the position they were in had little to do with the other's position - that much was clear to see, mostly. Of course, doubts of nepotism always were at the back of the head and quickly by the hand, but I mostly disregarded such rumours on principle. I didn't know the people, after all.
Next came Lorentz Vanderbilt, the Treasurer, a very serious-looking man, who did pay his respects.
Athena Freezis was the one after that, who showed her respect as well. She was awfully young, though, for the position she held. And I knew, that she would find herself as the target of interest of several of our own industrialists.
Of course, I returned the greetings just as politely and respectful, bowing my head gracefully and smiling and, due to COVID 19, asking for forgiveness for not shaking hands. We were role models, after all, and shaking hands was currently a No-Go. I must admit, Vanderbilt was the only one, who I had more respect for then liking, mainly because he was so strict looking, almost like a teacher. Freezis, on the other hand... she seemed like my kind of girl, if ya know, what I mean?
And then, she came.
Callista was a beautiful woman. Don't get me wrong, no woman in the world was even close to Marcella, but Callista, one had to say, was beautiful and very graceful. Kind and warm, but also with a certain cheer - she would find fans in Kyrenaia easily enough.
Yet, she looked like she would be soon enough wishing to be in Jalid's coldness rather then under the Lioness' glare...
She greeted me, to which I replied with a simple: "It is my pleasure, Your Royal Majesty."
And then came the gifts.
The gifts were wonderful and beautiful, but aside from the problem, that I was only their receptionist, not their host, there was no problem. Of course, one could argue, that these gifts were gifts to an Ambassador of the Sultanate and the Sultana and that I thus was not allowed to accept them, but as I was at home, so I was not an Ambassador, but a representative of the Sultana and as such, all gifts to me were gifts to the Sultana.
And she was very much allowed to accept gifts.
I could accept them, and did accept them, well aware, that they would go into the Treasure House and from there... the coins would most likely go to the Palace of the Ruby Hall, or rather a side wing, where a museum for coins was, headed by Prince Okan ibn-Dardan. The jewelry would be on display here in Utica, becoming an heirloom of the Ilkhanate of Utica like the Seashell-Necklace. The daggers and swords...
...well, maybe I'd be allowed to carry it to ceremonial functions every now and again? We'd see.
Either way, I bowed my head in gratitude, several Handmaidens carrying off the gifts for safekeeping.
"You honour me deeply with these presents, Your Royal Majesty.", I said, raised my head. "These gifts will be heirlooms to my house and testament to our friendship for generations to come. Please allow me now to welcome You, Your Royal Majesty, and Your traveling companions, in the time-honoured tradition of the Five Deserts."
I clapped twice and Sarina stepped forward, her tablet on her hand and the high flute glasses full of clear and cooled fresh water for everyone of them to grab.
"It is our custom to welcome a guest by sharing water.", I said and I think, the origin of that is clear enough. "It is a sign of peaceful and friendly intent and it is to make sure, that the other doesn't die of dehydration. We call this the tuqasimiah."
I took one glass and motioned for the delegation to do the same. Toasts were not usual, but not forbidden. The point was the drinking of the water, though, which, by tradition, would put them under the protection of the host, in this case the Sultana.
It was a very important gesture.

[Mervay]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Utica International Airport.
I smiled as the plane came to a stop - the announcer called out who left when.
First, of course, the Dilevas. The Chancellor and an industrialist, one being in the position they were in had little to do with the other's position - that much was clear to see, mostly. Of course, doubts of nepotism always were at the back of the head and quickly by the hand, but I mostly disregarded such rumours on principle. I didn't know the people, after all.
Next came Lorentz Vanderbilt, the Treasurer, a very serious-looking man, who did pay his respects.
Athena Freezis was the one after that, who showed her respect as well. She was awfully young, though, for the position she held. And I knew, that she would find herself as the target of interest of several of our own industrialists.
Of course, I returned the greetings just as politely and respectful, bowing my head gracefully and smiling and, due to COVID 19, asking for forgiveness for not shaking hands. We were role models, after all, and shaking hands was currently a No-Go. I must admit, Vanderbilt was the only one, who I had more respect for then liking, mainly because he was so strict looking, almost like a teacher. Freezis, on the other hand... she seemed like my kind of girl, if ya know, what I mean?
And then, she came.
Callista was a beautiful woman. Don't get me wrong, no woman in the world was even close to Marcella, but Callista, one had to say, was beautiful and very graceful. Kind and warm, but also with a certain cheer - she would find fans in Kyrenaia easily enough.
Yet, she looked like she would be soon enough wishing to be in Jalid's coldness rather then under the Lioness' glare...
She greeted me, to which I replied with a simple: "It is my pleasure, Your Royal Majesty."
And then came the gifts.
The gifts were wonderful and beautiful, but aside from the problem, that I was only their receptionist, not their host, there was no problem. Of course, one could argue, that these gifts were gifts to an Ambassador of the Sultanate and the Sultana and that I thus was not allowed to accept them, but as I was at home, so I was not an Ambassador, but a representative of the Sultana and as such, all gifts to me were gifts to the Sultana.
And she was very much allowed to accept gifts.
I could accept them, and did accept them, well aware, that they would go into the Treasure House and from there... the coins would most likely go to the Palace of the Ruby Hall, or rather a side wing, where a museum for coins was, headed by Prince Okan ibn-Dardan. The jewelry would be on display here in Utica, becoming an heirloom of the Ilkhanate of Utica like the Seashell-Necklace. The daggers and swords...
...well, maybe I'd be allowed to carry it to ceremonial functions every now and again? We'd see.
Either way, I bowed my head in gratitude, several Handmaidens carrying off the gifts for safekeeping.
"You honour me deeply with these presents, Your Royal Majesty.", I said, raised my head. "These gifts will be heirlooms to my house and testament to our friendship for generations to come. Please allow me now to welcome You, Your Royal Majesty, and Your traveling companions, in the time-honoured tradition of the Five Deserts."
I clapped twice and Sarina stepped forward, her tablet on her hand and the high flute glasses full of clear and cooled fresh water for everyone of them to grab.
"It is our custom to welcome a guest by sharing water.", I said and I think, the origin of that is clear enough. "It is a sign of peaceful and friendly intent and it is to make sure, that the other doesn't die of dehydration. We call this the tuqasimiah."
I took one glass and motioned for the delegation to do the same. Toasts were not usual, but not forbidden. The point was the drinking of the water, though, which, by tradition, would put them under the protection of the host, in this case the Sultana.
It was a very important gesture.

Mervayan Delegation
Utica International Airport
Of course the doubts were always there considering who they were; it would be a blessing to let such question out of any conversation as all doubts of nepotism were cleared completely by the actions mostly. Then again, if they asked they should at least reply respectfully to such question even if it was one they would rather keep for another time.
Meanwhile Treasurer Vanderbilt with his strict and serious look, one that could certainly make the impression he worked as a teacher from how serious and strict he seemed, well; is. It might have to do with his personality since then again, as soon as everyone was with their business of the next four days they would be as serious as he was entirely. Athena for sure didn't striked down as a businesswoman and industrialist when you saw her age completely; it would certainly be an massive interest to the people of the house before see she was as same as skilled as them in the corporate world.

As for Her Majesty, well. She was certainly quite the woman considering her charm alongside that switch of her where she's very cold and serious; a switch if you could say it. Then again when she greeted the Princess she did so politely and showing her warm side as it was the one she truly was out of work. She smiled at Aurelia's reply while the gifts were handed over, it was more or less for PR and to show their goodwill for this travel alongside the main reason being the respect Asteria had to the Sultanate; of course Princess Bint-Damir was their receptionist here and such gifts should be handed to the Sultana; but in this case and seeing that the cameras were here, perhaps it should do the trick on showing their good intentions and respect.

As Aurelia said that, Callista smiled as hearing that while the delegation also did too, albeit with a slight degree of relief as it worked well considering that it could had been a bit embarassing if not. Then they heard the Princess explanation about the tradition, which was no secret why such thing as this nation was mostly full of deserts or it's climate was completely warm all year; sometimes a bit too warm if had to be said. Still; as soon as their receptionist motioned for them to grab their glasses, they did so and took out their face masks; from what they knew out of what the Princess told them, this also meant they were under the protection of The Sultana for the duration of their travel. That is if their homework was right of course.

Without toast or anything as that would rather be saved to situations where such thing is more needed rather than here; they drank respectfully their glasses, thankful of the fresh water as they smilled at the Princess and her handmaiden before putting back their face masks and handing the glasses to the table.

"We are grateful of such gesture Your Highness; it is indeed a nice way to welcome us and to sign the fact that as of now we are under the protection of The Sultana if our knowledge doesn't fool us." The Queen said respectfully with her eyes making the work of normally her smile. For now the one speaking until they get into the airport would be The Queen, as she was the leader of the delegation and was the public face of it after all.

[Kyrenaia]

Mervayan Delegation
Utica International Airport
Of course the doubts were always there considering who they were; it would be a blessing to let such question out of any conversation as all doubts of nepotism were cleared completely by the actions mostly. Then again, if they asked they should at least reply respectfully to such question even if it was one they would rather keep for another time.
Meanwhile Treasurer Vanderbilt with his strict and serious look, one that could certainly make the impression he worked as a teacher from how serious and strict he seemed, well; is. It might have to do with his personality since then again, as soon as everyone was with their business of the next four days they would be as serious as he was entirely. Athena for sure didn't striked down as a businesswoman and industrialist when you saw her age completely; it would certainly be an massive interest to the people of the house before see she was as same as skilled as them in the corporate world.

As for Her Majesty, well. She was certainly quite the woman considering her charm alongside that switch of her where she's very cold and serious; a switch if you could say it. Then again when she greeted the Princess she did so politely and showing her warm side as it was the one she truly was out of work. She smiled at Aurelia's reply while the gifts were handed over, it was more or less for PR and to show their goodwill for this travel alongside the main reason being the respect Asteria had to the Sultanate; of course Princess Bint-Damir was their receptionist here and such gifts should be handed to the Sultana; but in this case and seeing that the cameras were here, perhaps it should do the trick on showing their good intentions and respect.

As Aurelia said that, Callista smiled as hearing that while the delegation also did too, albeit with a slight degree of relief as it worked well considering that it could had been a bit embarassing if not. Then they heard the Princess explanation about the tradition, which was no secret why such thing as this nation was mostly full of deserts or it's climate was completely warm all year; sometimes a bit too warm if had to be said. Still; as soon as their receptionist motioned for them to grab their glasses, they did so and took out their face masks; from what they knew out of what the Princess told them, this also meant they were under the protection of The Sultana for the duration of their travel. That is if their homework was right of course.

Without toast or anything as that would rather be saved to situations where such thing is more needed rather than here; they drank respectfully their glasses, thankful of the fresh water as they smilled at the Princess and her handmaiden before putting back their face masks and handing the glasses to the table.

"We are grateful of such gesture Your Highness; it is indeed a nice way to welcome us and to sign the fact that as of now we are under the protection of The Sultana if our knowledge doesn't fool us." The Queen said respectfully with her eyes making the work of normally her smile. For now the one speaking until they get into the airport would be The Queen, as she was the leader of the delegation and was the public face of it after all.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Utica International Airport.
I smiled and nodded. "Indeed you are now, Your Majesty.", I said, putting my empty glass back onto the tray. "Though, granted, it is mostly nowadays an assurance of peaceful intent... and as an assurance for the more... involved elements at Court, that acting too much out of line will not be appreciated." I smiled, happy that someone did their homework. "Let's get going!"
I turned and motioned for the delegation to follow me. Sarina would make up the rear, tray still in hand, so that one could give her all empty glasses until she had them all.
We approached the airport's terminal, the next stop in our trip to the Palace of the Azure Hall. I reached into my pocket and took out a face mask, fixing it on my face - a necessary evil these days.
The terminal was huge, but its actual size only became apparent, as we entered: Three quarters of the building were underground, mostly to make cooling it easier. The building of steel and glass and solar panels was quite modern, but mostly empty due to the state visit and due to COVID.
Mostly, however, did not mean completely.
When one entered, there were a number of counters for the airport police and customs authority, all of which were unmanned today, and a white line behind them. This was the border, crossing it would formally mean entry into the Sultanate.
Behind the border, we were already expected by a dozen or so people, all with face masks, some in uniforms, some in suits and ties, one in a dress, all with glasses of water themselves, and with a few Handmaidens, wearing face masks under their veils as well, around. When Callista and her delegation entered, they started applauding.
I smiled, turned as soon as we had crossed the line. "Now you are in Kyrenaia.", I declared, bowed my head lightly, "Welcome."

[Mervay]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Utica International Airport.
I smiled and nodded. "Indeed you are now, Your Majesty.", I said, putting my empty glass back onto the tray. "Though, granted, it is mostly nowadays an assurance of peaceful intent... and as an assurance for the more... involved elements at Court, that acting too much out of line will not be appreciated." I smiled, happy that someone did their homework. "Let's get going!"
I turned and motioned for the delegation to follow me. Sarina would make up the rear, tray still in hand, so that one could give her all empty glasses until she had them all.
We approached the airport's terminal, the next stop in our trip to the Palace of the Azure Hall. I reached into my pocket and took out a face mask, fixing it on my face - a necessary evil these days.
The terminal was huge, but its actual size only became apparent, as we entered: Three quarters of the building were underground, mostly to make cooling it easier. The building of steel and glass and solar panels was quite modern, but mostly empty due to the state visit and due to COVID.
Mostly, however, did not mean completely.
When one entered, there were a number of counters for the airport police and customs authority, all of which were unmanned today, and a white line behind them. This was the border, crossing it would formally mean entry into the Sultanate.
Behind the border, we were already expected by a dozen or so people, all with face masks, some in uniforms, some in suits and ties, one in a dress, all with glasses of water themselves, and with a few Handmaidens, wearing face masks under their veils as well, around. When Callista and her delegation entered, they started applauding.
I smiled, turned as soon as we had crossed the line. "Now you are in Kyrenaia.", I declared, bowed my head lightly, "Welcome."

Mervayan Delegation
Utica International Airport
It was a relief they did their homework, certainly it would ease things for everyone involved as that would let a more fluid talk plus less time regarding some customs. The entirety of the delegation handed back their glasses onto the tray, having drunk their beverage already.

Their walk was then to the terminal and airport proper, which from what they could see wasn't that big outside properly; of course they would be witness inside of it's massive size of that modern and sustainable building. It was mostly empty due to obvious reasons that didn't required any mention and one of them was tied to their visit while the other to the evil raging across the planet; it seemed that in a normal day it would be quite busy as there were various counters for the respective authorities alongside why such massive building would be needed.

Of course they would see the rest of their welcoming comittee just crossing the other side of the white line which meant officially you were in Kyrenaia; unsuprisingly they were applauded when crossing the border to which the Queen made sure alongside the rest of the delegation to greet their hosts properly with smiles and handwaves beneath their masks.

The joke of them now officially in Kyrenaia made the two younger members of the delegation chuckle while the others just smiled, one could say it could be a gag for state visits around here. They all bowed in respect to then have the leader of the delegation speak about the welcoming.

"With all due respect, I can imagine this is quite a gag for state visits around here." The Queen said letting a giggle out while the young businesswoman and aristocrat nodded.

"Certainly it seems to be Your Majesty." Athena spoke while having the same expression as Callista. Now officially in the airport the rest of the delegation would be able to speak, as long as they don't interrupt their head of state of course.

[Kyrenaia]

Mervayan Delegation
Utica International Airport
It was a relief they did their homework, certainly it would ease things for everyone involved as that would let a more fluid talk plus less time regarding some customs. The entirety of the delegation handed back their glasses onto the tray, having drunk their beverage already.

Their walk was then to the terminal and airport proper, which from what they could see wasn't that big outside properly; of course they would be witness inside of it's massive size of that modern and sustainable building. It was mostly empty due to obvious reasons that didn't required any mention and one of them was tied to their visit while the other to the evil raging across the planet; it seemed that in a normal day it would be quite busy as there were various counters for the respective authorities alongside why such massive building would be needed.

Of course they would see the rest of their welcoming comittee just crossing the other side of the white line which meant officially you were in Kyrenaia; unsuprisingly they were applauded when crossing the border to which the Queen made sure alongside the rest of the delegation to greet their hosts properly with smiles and handwaves beneath their masks.

The joke of them now officially in Kyrenaia made the two younger members of the delegation chuckle while the others just smiled, one could say it could be a gag for state visits around here. They all bowed in respect to then have the leader of the delegation speak about the welcoming.

"With all due respect, I can imagine this is quite a gag for state visits around here." The Queen said letting a giggle out while the young businesswoman and aristocrat nodded.

"Certainly it seems to be Your Majesty." Athena spoke while having the same expression as Callista. Now officially in the airport the rest of the delegation would be able to speak, as long as they don't interrupt their head of state of course.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Utica International Airport.
I nodded. "It is a joke, albeit a bit of a lame one, admittedly.", I said and looked forward to the modest welcoming committee. There weren't many people, not out of disrespect, but out of necessity: Due to COVID, large gatherings were forbidden, especially in enclosed areas. That was also the reason why the carriage ride to the Palace would be a bit smaller then usually. "Anyway... allow me to introduce you to a few people..."
And off we went with that.
First of all, Captain Nesrin Elba of the Utica Metropolitan Police Special Forces, the person responsible for Callista's Security the moment she left the Palace's gates. That also made it necessary to coordinate with everyone the guest might have brought along as maids or butlers, who weren't just that.
Then there was Azad Safir, the current Minister of Foreign Affairs, who bowed deeply to Callista and greeted Dileva and Vanderbilt with the familiarity of someone working in similar jobs - and in a way, despite him not being Grand Vizier, Safir and the two Mervayans had similar jobs.
Fara Hailb was a Priestess at the Priestess of Manat at the Temple in Mawqieadas, near Utica. It was one of the most important sanctuaries of the Cult, which was dedicated to the Goddess of Fate. The Lasite Woman with the pointy ears blessed Callista and her delegation, especially Athena, curiously enough.
Last, but not least, preferring a leather outfit, which reminded me a bit of a biker, over the traditional silk bands, was Shermin Eijlatan, the Head of the Driver Corps of the Palace of the Azure Hall. She was a strict teacher, but as long as her lessons would allow me to conduct myself properly in traffic, I would not complain. Aside from that, however, she was also an expert in personal protection and introduced to Callista and the delegation as the one, who would be responsible for their security once they were at the Palace of the Azure Hall.
I smiled.
"If you want, we have a few minutes here before the schedule sees us departing for Utica Main Railway Station via tram, so...", I pointed over my shoulder to where a buffet table had a few munchies on display. "...if you would excuse me, please...?"

[Mervay]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Utica International Airport.
I nodded. "It is a joke, albeit a bit of a lame one, admittedly.", I said and looked forward to the modest welcoming committee. There weren't many people, not out of disrespect, but out of necessity: Due to COVID, large gatherings were forbidden, especially in enclosed areas. That was also the reason why the carriage ride to the Palace would be a bit smaller then usually. "Anyway... allow me to introduce you to a few people..."
And off we went with that.
First of all, Captain Nesrin Elba of the Utica Metropolitan Police Special Forces, the person responsible for Callista's Security the moment she left the Palace's gates. That also made it necessary to coordinate with everyone the guest might have brought along as maids or butlers, who weren't just that.
Then there was Azad Safir, the current Minister of Foreign Affairs, who bowed deeply to Callista and greeted Dileva and Vanderbilt with the familiarity of someone working in similar jobs - and in a way, despite him not being Grand Vizier, Safir and the two Mervayans had similar jobs.
Fara Hailb was a Priestess at the Priestess of Manat at the Temple in Mawqieadas, near Utica. It was one of the most important sanctuaries of the Cult, which was dedicated to the Goddess of Fate. The Lasite Woman with the pointy ears blessed Callista and her delegation, especially Athena, curiously enough.
Last, but not least, preferring a leather outfit, which reminded me a bit of a biker, over the traditional silk bands, was Shermin Eijlatan, the Head of the Driver Corps of the Palace of the Azure Hall. She was a strict teacher, but as long as her lessons would allow me to conduct myself properly in traffic, I would not complain. Aside from that, however, she was also an expert in personal protection and introduced to Callista and the delegation as the one, who would be responsible for their security once they were at the Palace of the Azure Hall.
I smiled.
"If you want, we have a few minutes here before the schedule sees us departing for Utica Main Railway Station via tram, so...", I pointed over my shoulder to where a buffet table had a few munchies on display. "...if you would excuse me, please...?"

Mervayan Delegation
Utica International Airport
"Well it's certainly part of the charm." Callista smiled before letting out a chuckle related to that. Then they had the rest of their welcoming committee to speak with.

As expected of the strange times we live in, a smaller welcome committee has been organized, but of course it's far from what other state visits of the past had thanks to the virus. The first one the captain of the city's police special forces, Nesrin Elba which was in charge of Her Majesty's and Delegation security for the travel and that meant to coordinate with her delegation and maids and butlers which indeed weren't just that but also the intelligence agents and soldiers of the most secretive unit of the Royal Guard that was in charge of Her Majesty's security alongside that of the Royal Family; The Black Knights, of course that wasn't important as they were for the mission a group of maids and butlers and by a group just ten of them entirely, two assigned to every one of the delegation for the next four days. The entire delegation bowed at him as expected and so was to the next member of the committee.

Then the Kyrenaian Minister of Foreign Affairs; Azad Safir, which had deeply bowed to the Queen and greeted the Chancellor and Treasurer with respect as they worked in similar jobs in general.
Later on it was the turn of Priestess Fara Halib which blessed everyone in the delegation and especially Athena which made her puzzled for a while before remembering where she, or at least thought, saw her. It could had made her blush had the circunstances been less serious and she didn't had to keep her serious persona even if she had laughed at the joke earlier as a way to break the ice.

She could certainly think she had seen her with Leo back on Ironcastle if she had to think about it; but either way better ask later during the travel.

Then lastly; the one in charge of Her Majesty's and the delegation security inside the palace, Lady Shermin Eijlatan. She's going to be the one in charge of their security in palace grounds completely, once again the delegation bowed at her while Her Majesty gave her like she did to the rest of the committee a curtsy in respect to them.

When Aurelia pointed at the buffet table, Callista couldn't help but snicker before letting out an smile to comment on what the Princess said.

"Fair enough, mind if I join you??" She asked smiling while her two maids appeared from behind, dressed in a victorian style outfit with them bowing at Her Majesty and Her Highness Aurelia and her handmaiden before the white haired woman spoke.

"Your Majesty we have taken everything you and the rest of the delegation brought down for the next four days." She said with a calm demeanor to which she was replied with a grin by the woman she and her partner had to protect, while noticing her more cold persona hasn't appeared yet, to which she could only guess that for now that won't be happening.

"Perfect! Please focus on what remains to be taken down the plane and that also means your belongings too." She smiled warmly at them before they nodded and went to do that.

Meanwhile Jessica and Lorentz decided to get to work already by taking their chances and have a talk with Mr. Safir; even so Vanderbilt was Minister of Economy or Finances in the more casual sense of the word if you don't go by the official title.

"Mr. Safir." Jessica approached with a smile on her face while doing a curtsy at him. "I hope that in the next four days we will be able to have a fruitful conversation regarding the future of our nations together." She smiled at him meanwhile The Treasurer was focused on looking at the conversation for now before making any comment.

Meanwhile Athena decided to talk with the Priestess and see if her hunch was correct and see if that's where she saw her. As such; she approached to her with a smile and a curious look at the lasite woman.

"Excuse me Ms. Halib; but could it be that we had met or at least saw each other in Ironcastle?" She asked and hopefully it was correct her hunch.

Meanwhile Edward was more or less looking at his surrundings and thinking about what was to come next, four days trying to set up his entire group on this nation alongside his number one economical rival which will also want to do the same; he thought about going and talk with the one in charge of their security outside the palace, but he knew there was nothing to worry and everything will be fine. Just four days of work and leisure once in a while, guess they could try and stay if they want to like back they did for a while in Sinope.

[Kyrenaia]

Mervayan Delegation
Utica International Airport
"Well it's certainly part of the charm." Callista smiled before letting out a chuckle related to that. Then they had the rest of their welcoming committee to speak with.

As expected of the strange times we live in, a smaller welcome committee has been organized, but of course it's far from what other state visits of the past had thanks to the virus. The first one the captain of the city's police special forces, Nesrin Elba which was in charge of Her Majesty's and Delegation security for the travel and that meant to coordinate with her delegation and maids and butlers which indeed weren't just that but also the intelligence agents and soldiers of the most secretive unit of the Royal Guard that was in charge of Her Majesty's security alongside that of the Royal Family; The Black Knights, of course that wasn't important as they were for the mission a group of maids and butlers and by a group just ten of them entirely, two assigned to every one of the delegation for the next four days. The entire delegation bowed at him as expected and so was to the next member of the committee.

Then the Kyrenaian Minister of Foreign Affairs; Azad Safir, which had deeply bowed to the Queen and greeted the Chancellor and Treasurer with respect as they worked in similar jobs in general.
Later on it was the turn of Priestess Fara Halib which blessed everyone in the delegation and especially Athena which made her puzzled for a while before remembering where she, or at least thought, saw her. It could had made her blush had the circunstances been less serious and she didn't had to keep her serious persona even if she had laughed at the joke earlier as a way to break the ice.

She could certainly think she had seen her with Leo back on Ironcastle if she had to think about it; but either way better ask later during the travel.

Then lastly; the one in charge of Her Majesty's and the delegation security inside the palace, Lady Shermin Eijlatan. She's going to be the one in charge of their security in palace grounds completely, once again the delegation bowed at her while Her Majesty gave her like she did to the rest of the committee a curtsy in respect to them.

When Aurelia pointed at the buffet table, Callista couldn't help but snicker before letting out an smile to comment on what the Princess said.

"Fair enough, mind if I join you??" She asked smiling while her two maids appeared from behind, dressed in a victorian style outfit with them bowing at Her Majesty and Her Highness Aurelia and her handmaiden before the white haired woman spoke.

"Your Majesty we have taken everything you and the rest of the delegation brought down for the next four days." She said with a calm demeanor to which she was replied with a grin by the woman she and her partner had to protect, while noticing her more cold persona hasn't appeared yet, to which she could only guess that for now that won't be happening.

"Perfect! Please focus on what remains to be taken down the plane and that also means your belongings too." She smiled warmly at them before they nodded and went to do that.

Meanwhile Jessica and Lorentz decided to get to work already by taking their chances and have a talk with Mr. Safir; even so Vanderbilt was Minister of Economy or Finances in the more casual sense of the word if you don't go by the official title.

"Mr. Safir." Jessica approached with a smile on her face while doing a curtsy at him. "I hope that in the next four days we will be able to have a fruitful conversation regarding the future of our nations together." She smiled at him meanwhile The Treasurer was focused on looking at the conversation for now before making any comment.

Meanwhile Athena decided to talk with the Priestess and see if her hunch was correct and see if that's where she saw her. As such; she approached to her with a smile and a curious look at the lasite woman.

"Excuse me Ms. Halib; but could it be that we had met or at least saw each other in Ironcastle?" She asked and hopefully it was correct her hunch.

Meanwhile Edward was more or less looking at his surrundings and thinking about what was to come next, four days trying to set up his entire group on this nation alongside his number one economical rival which will also want to do the same; he thought about going and talk with the one in charge of their security outside the palace, but he knew there was nothing to worry and everything will be fine. Just four days of work and leisure once in a while, guess they could try and stay if they want to like back they did for a while in Sinope.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Utica International Airport.
I smiled.
"Absolutely not!", I told Callista as we made our way over to the buffet.
I knew, that her maids were a bit like the Tabardariyya in their function - in fact, they were essentially her bodyguards, but not announced to us as such. Openly bringing bodyguards would have been an insult, but this way, by declaring them as servants, all were satisfied. No rule without loophole, after all.
I gave the two a respectful nod.
The buffet was quite a spread, too, from chickpeas roasted in oil and pita chips, over cardamom pistachio shortbread cookies (with almonds and without), green almonds and green plums with a dash of salt to, of course, dates, the Bread of the Five Deserts.
I took one of the dates. "Any buffet is hardly a buffet without those, if you ask me.", I told Callista - I knew, where the dates came from the moment I popped it into my mouth.
Atif.
I was not sure, if one could read me being a bit uncomfortable in my face, but I hoped not.

Azad Safir.
"I hope so as well, Madame Dileva.", I replied with a small smile, bowing my head in response to the curtsy, "And I hope, that it will be satisfying to both of our sides."
I let a beat pass.
"Of course, the end decision on my end rests with the Sultana and the Ilkhans, but generally... I think, that we can have a pleasant time working together.", I added, then smiled: "That of course raises the question, as to which tea you prefer for our more formal conversations."

Fara Hailb.
I nodded. "I think, that we met each other.", I said, "You were accompanied by a local gentleman, a young man with his arm in a sling and fire-red hair." I leaned a slight bit closer while still keeping the appropriate distance. "Quite a handsome fellow, if I may say so... I hope, that he is well?"
I had been in Ironcastle, together with some religious dignitaries from Kyrenaia, at the Harvest Festival and we had met. Athena had been quite smitten by the young man, if I remember correctly.
And I would not have minded having a cuppa tea or two with him, if I were to be honest. Sadly, I had not caught his name, so...

Marla Sahrar of the Tribe of Wicklow.
I was a Handmaiden with the Palace of the Azure Hall, fresh from the Handmaiden Academy, which many of us had attended. I was not Tabardariyya, though, but just a young woman of the Handmaiden Corps.
And half-Selkie, my Mam being second-generation, which also explained my light skin.
Regardless, I wore the full Altanafus min la Shay, the Breath of Nothing, with the white silk enwrought with silver thread, barely noticeable. A band of silk wrapped from the back of the neck along the right side down to the left breast, around the back to the right breast, up to the left side of the neck and behind for a knot, plus a short skirt of the same material. A veil hid much of my face behind the translucent fabric.
I carried a number of glasses of water into the reception, silent and graceful as a cat.
Captain Elba took a glass and nodded to me in thanks, then I approached one of the guests, Mister Dileva, if I remember correctly...

[Mervay]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Utica International Airport.
I smiled.
"Absolutely not!", I told Callista as we made our way over to the buffet.
I knew, that her maids were a bit like the Tabardariyya in their function - in fact, they were essentially her bodyguards, but not announced to us as such. Openly bringing bodyguards would have been an insult, but this way, by declaring them as servants, all were satisfied. No rule without loophole, after all.
I gave the two a respectful nod.
The buffet was quite a spread, too, from chickpeas roasted in oil and pita chips, over cardamom pistachio shortbread cookies (with almonds and without), green almonds and green plums with a dash of salt to, of course, dates, the Bread of the Five Deserts.
I took one of the dates. "Any buffet is hardly a buffet without those, if you ask me.", I told Callista - I knew, where the dates came from the moment I popped it into my mouth.
Atif.
I was not sure, if one could read me being a bit uncomfortable in my face, but I hoped not.

Azad Safir.
"I hope so as well, Madame Dileva.", I replied with a small smile, bowing my head in response to the curtsy, "And I hope, that it will be satisfying to both of our sides."
I let a beat pass.
"Of course, the end decision on my end rests with the Sultana and the Ilkhans, but generally... I think, that we can have a pleasant time working together.", I added, then smiled: "That of course raises the question, as to which tea you prefer for our more formal conversations."

Fara Hailb.
I nodded. "I think, that we met each other.", I said, "You were accompanied by a local gentleman, a young man with his arm in a sling and fire-red hair." I leaned a slight bit closer while still keeping the appropriate distance. "Quite a handsome fellow, if I may say so... I hope, that he is well?"
I had been in Ironcastle, together with some religious dignitaries from Kyrenaia, at the Harvest Festival and we had met. Athena had been quite smitten by the young man, if I remember correctly.
And I would not have minded having a cuppa tea or two with him, if I were to be honest. Sadly, I had not caught his name, so...

Marla Sahrar of the Tribe of Wicklow.
I was a Handmaiden with the Palace of the Azure Hall, fresh from the Handmaiden Academy, which many of us had attended. I was not Tabardariyya, though, but just a young woman of the Handmaiden Corps.
And half-Selkie, my Mam being second-generation, which also explained my light skin.
Regardless, I wore the full Altanafus min la Shay, the Breath of Nothing, with the white silk enwrought with silver thread, barely noticeable. A band of silk wrapped from the back of the neck along the right side down to the left breast, around the back to the right breast, up to the left side of the neck and behind for a knot, plus a short skirt of the same material. A veil hid much of my face behind the translucent fabric.
I carried a number of glasses of water into the reception, silent and graceful as a cat.
Captain Elba took a glass and nodded to me in thanks, then I approached one of the guests, Mister Dileva, if I remember correctly...

Callista IV of Mervay
Utica International Airport
She certainly knew that their hosts were informed of her bodyguards being maids officially for the travel, but also knew that they had every reason to be sure of them being unoffically her bodyguards even if not declared as such but thankfully; they didn't said nothing after all, this was a loophole that was comfortable for everyone involved.
She grinned back at the comment while walking to the buffet with the Princess, of course she would see that they had quite the buffet; you had everything you could imagine here without any trouble or at least part of, plus it looked delicious and it was as soon as she tasted the chickpeas before tasting the dates under Aurelia's advice. Her Majesty's expression did certainly showed how she was loving the snacks as she knew the banquet of the evening was where the main dishes would come in; of course that was before she noticed Lady bint-Damir's expression regarding the dates, to which Callista decided to act upon by asking what was wrong.

"Are the dates bad or do they remind you of something that happened before?" She asked concerned to the Princess; the first option could be ruled out of the table if it wasn't by the fact everyone had different tastes, but it was impoissible to say that the dates were bad for what she could taste at least and how she heard of them being the bread of the region. So that leaved the second option and could be likely to be that? Who knows, perhaps yes or perhaps not.

Jessica Dileva and Lorentz Vanderbilt
Jessica chuckled a bit at the joke Mr. Safir, she was quite loving of tea after all. But he was right on that they will have a pleasant talk regarding the future of their nations that satisfies both nations.

"I hope so Mr. Safir, we will certainly come to an agreement that is a win-win for both of us." The Chancellor said with a smile before letting a giggle out to answer his other less serious question. "Well I'm a fan of Earl Grey and Black Tea, albeit my time in AHSCA has made be loving of the Green Tea too; so maybe that should be enough options for my part at least." She grinned at him before Lorentz interrupted her.

"I apologize for interrupting you Chancellor but I do have a question to Mr. Safir." He told her in French respecfully to which she nodded, already having a hunch it might be related to who he will have to deal with the next four days.

"With all due respect Mr. Zafir, but if you know the answer to the next question; I would appreciate if you are able to respond it. With who may I have the honour to work with during the next four days?"

Athena Freezis
And she was right; the Priestess has indeed been in Ironcastle, and has indeed seen her quite smitten by Leo. Well if she didn't had to keep her facade she would be blushing entirely at the sole thought of it for sure; but Athena decided to answer truthfully and well, since there was no reason to keep the mask on for the moment.

"Yes, he's ok thankfully; his arm has healed enough for him to get off the sling." She said smiling a bit while her cheeks became a bit red. "If U have to say, yes he's handsome but there's more to why I like him if I have to say." Athena continued thinking about that as her glare was thoughtful and full of love for the person in question.

"Leo is the first person I can say that I'm in love with, the love of someone that can be besides you not as a friend but your beloved, to know you have someone besides you with such personality, kindness and love is truly wonderful." She smiled warmly at such thoughts before blushing a bit when she noticed that she might had trailed off the talk.

"My apologies, I trailed off a bit." She smiled sheepishly at the Priestess.

Edward Dileva
Well at least he could for now have a small break before having to well, do his work. Hopefully it all ended well for him and everyone else here on their targets; maybe he should have a drink and not think too much about it.

Like if it was a miracle, a handmaiden came with glasses of water so Edward grabbed and nodded in appreciation before having to ask something regarding a curiosity he saw alongside the rest while walking.

"My apologies to ask, but what will be of the banners that are in the platform? I can consider that certainly Her Majesty might quite fond of having them." He asked with a smile at the handmaiden about that.

[Kyrenaia]

Callista IV of Mervay
Utica International Airport
She certainly knew that their hosts were informed of her bodyguards being maids officially for the travel, but also knew that they had every reason to be sure of them being unoffically her bodyguards even if not declared as such but thankfully; they didn't said nothing after all, this was a loophole that was comfortable for everyone involved.
She grinned back at the comment while walking to the buffet with the Princess, of course she would see that they had quite the buffet; you had everything you could imagine here without any trouble or at least part of, plus it looked delicious and it was as soon as she tasted the chickpeas before tasting the dates under Aurelia's advice. Her Majesty's expression did certainly showed how she was loving the snacks as she knew the banquet of the evening was where the main dishes would come in; of course that was before she noticed Lady bint-Damir's expression regarding the dates, to which Callista decided to act upon by asking what was wrong.

"Are the dates bad or do they remind you of something that happened before?" She asked concerned to the Princess; the first option could be ruled out of the table if it wasn't by the fact everyone had different tastes, but it was impoissible to say that the dates were bad for what she could taste at least and how she heard of them being the bread of the region. So that leaved the second option and could be likely to be that? Who knows, perhaps yes or perhaps not.

Jessica Dileva and Lorentz Vanderbilt
Jessica chuckled a bit at the joke Mr. Safir, she was quite loving of tea after all. But he was right on that they will have a pleasant talk regarding the future of their nations that satisfies both nations.

"I hope so Mr. Safir, we will certainly come to an agreement that is a win-win for both of us." The Chancellor said with a smile before letting a giggle out to answer his other less serious question. "Well I'm a fan of Earl Grey and Black Tea, albeit my time in AHSCA has made be loving of the Green Tea too; so maybe that should be enough options for my part at least." She grinned at him before Lorentz interrupted her.

"I apologize for interrupting you Chancellor but I do have a question to Mr. Safir." He told her in French respecfully to which she nodded, already having a hunch it might be related to who he will have to deal with the next four days.

"With all due respect Mr. Zafir, but if you know the answer to the next question; I would appreciate if you are able to respond it. With who may I have the honour to work with during the next four days?"

Athena Freezis
And she was right; the Priestess has indeed been in Ironcastle, and has indeed seen her quite smitten by Leo. Well if she didn't had to keep her facade she would be blushing entirely at the sole thought of it for sure; but Athena decided to answer truthfully and well, since there was no reason to keep the mask on for the moment.

"Yes, he's ok thankfully; his arm has healed enough for him to get off the sling." She said smiling a bit while her cheeks became a bit red. "If U have to say, yes he's handsome but there's more to why I like him if I have to say." Athena continued thinking about that as her glare was thoughtful and full of love for the person in question.

"Leo is the first person I can say that I'm in love with, the love of someone that can be besides you not as a friend but your beloved, to know you have someone besides you with such personality, kindness and love is truly wonderful." She smiled warmly at such thoughts before blushing a bit when she noticed that she might had trailed off the talk.

"My apologies, I trailed off a bit." She smiled sheepishly at the Priestess.

Edward Dileva
Well at least he could for now have a small break before having to well, do his work. Hopefully it all ended well for him and everyone else here on their targets; maybe he should have a drink and not think too much about it.

Like if it was a miracle, a handmaiden came with glasses of water so Edward grabbed and nodded in appreciation before having to ask something regarding a curiosity he saw alongside the rest while walking.

"My apologies to ask, but what will be of the banners that are in the platform? I can consider that certainly Her Majesty might quite fond of having them." He asked with a smile at the handmaiden about that.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Utica International Airport.
I stopped for a moment, then smiled slightly.
"Oh, no, the dates are perfect.", I said once I had swallowed, "They... they reminded me of someone. An ex-boyfriend of mine, to be precise, a certain Atif Qalb. He is the son of a Date Plantation Owner and I presume, that these dates are from their plantation." I smiled a bit broader. "Though, one should add, that I remember both him and his father's plantation fondly. He's a good young man."
I looked Callista up and down.
"If you want, I can see, if he can't be summoned as your Neutral Date.", I suggested with a smile, "He is a good dancer, after all."

Azad Safir.
I smiled as Madame Dileva told me of her fondness of black and green teas - we could certainly oblige with both and with herbal teas. Those would be, at least as far as the refreshments were concerned, good and pleasant talks.
Then Vanderbilt asked me, who his opposite number would be.
"Vizier Karim Ibn-al-Hakim, our Minister of Economics.", I replied with a small smile, "As you mention him, he asked me to give you his best regards and to apologize on his behalf for not being here right now. Urgent, but private business kept him away."

Fara Hailb.
I smiled and shook my head.
"Don't worry.", I said and took a sip of water, "Manat has beautiful things for us in store - and She does not hold it against us, if we speak about them."
I was glad for her. She seemed like the type, who would have trouble finding someone, who loved her for being, well, her, and the young man she had been with in Ironcastle had seemed like a solid young man. I would have loved to reply with tales of my own beloved, but I was single at the time.
"Though, to my understanding, the two of you are not yet engaged, right?", I asked.

Marla Sahrar of the Tribe of Wicklow.
As I wore a veil, I was not allowed to speak out loud, but would have to cross the 1.5-meter zone to whisper into his ear, as tradition demanded it. So, if questions came, we had a simple order.
I raised a finger to wordlessly ask for a moment, took off the veil and put on a face mask, a completely white surgical mask.
That done, I turned back to Mister Dileva.
"To my understanding...", I said with a bit of an accent, admittedly, "...the banners will be taken off later today. As per usual protocol, some will be handed over to the Museum of the Palace of the Azure Hall, but the majority will be send back to their original makers. If wished, I can ask, if Her Majesty can receive some of them as well."

[Mervay]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Utica International Airport.
I stopped for a moment, then smiled slightly.
"Oh, no, the dates are perfect.", I said once I had swallowed, "They... they reminded me of someone. An ex-boyfriend of mine, to be precise, a certain Atif Qalb. He is the son of a Date Plantation Owner and I presume, that these dates are from their plantation." I smiled a bit broader. "Though, one should add, that I remember both him and his father's plantation fondly. He's a good young man."
I looked Callista up and down.
"If you want, I can see, if he can't be summoned as your Neutral Date.", I suggested with a smile, "He is a good dancer, after all."

Azad Safir.
I smiled as Madame Dileva told me of her fondness of black and green teas - we could certainly oblige with both and with herbal teas. Those would be, at least as far as the refreshments were concerned, good and pleasant talks.
Then Vanderbilt asked me, who his opposite number would be.
"Vizier Karim Ibn-al-Hakim, our Minister of Economics.", I replied with a small smile, "As you mention him, he asked me to give you his best regards and to apologize on his behalf for not being here right now. Urgent, but private business kept him away."

Fara Hailb.
I smiled and shook my head.
"Don't worry.", I said and took a sip of water, "Manat has beautiful things for us in store - and She does not hold it against us, if we speak about them."
I was glad for her. She seemed like the type, who would have trouble finding someone, who loved her for being, well, her, and the young man she had been with in Ironcastle had seemed like a solid young man. I would have loved to reply with tales of my own beloved, but I was single at the time.
"Though, to my understanding, the two of you are not yet engaged, right?", I asked.

Marla Sahrar of the Tribe of Wicklow.
As I wore a veil, I was not allowed to speak out loud, but would have to cross the 1.5-meter zone to whisper into his ear, as tradition demanded it. So, if questions came, we had a simple order.
I raised a finger to wordlessly ask for a moment, took off the veil and put on a face mask, a completely white surgical mask.
That done, I turned back to Mister Dileva.
"To my understanding...", I said with a bit of an accent, admittedly, "...the banners will be taken off later today. As per usual protocol, some will be handed over to the Museum of the Palace of the Azure Hall, but the majority will be send back to their original makers. If wished, I can ask, if Her Majesty can receive some of them as well."

Callista IV of Mervay
Ahh, so she was right in the end; an personal issue was and related to an former lover before she met Duchess Villa of AHSCA. Well she wasn't one to involve unless necessary and this time it wasn't more than the basics. She wasn't one to give advice about love when she didn't had a boyfriend or girlfriend for the matter, but; it seemed those two are good friends now.
She giggled a bit at the recomendation from Aurelia regarding Atif and as such answered back with a fond smile to the Princess.

"It is a wonderful idea; it will be an honour to meet him and dance with him." Her Majesty commented before eating another of the dates, they were really delicious. After that however she thought about that relationship; perhaps it would be better to ask and see if those two lovely birds made any advance.

"My apologies for the next question Your Highness but; how is the relationship between you and Duchess Villa going on, I assume you two had been able to advance to be close that step you two are waiting right?" That step was certainly knew by Aurelia, after all, it was the goal of every relationship; marriage.

Jessica Dileva and Lorentz Vanderbilt
Refreshments were out the table as the consensus was clear on that area for a pleasing talk after all; of course they still had to deal with the pressing issues but then again she was prepared for these and knew well they would take quite a bit of the talks, but even so, they would be pleasant too regarding the two foreign affairs ministers. Then of course the treasurer asked the reason his counterpart was absent; to which gave an understanding nod at it considering personal problems had always been difficult for everyone and couldn't blame him for having when everyone does.

"I will rely soon as I meet Vizier Ibn-al-Hakim that he shouldn't be apologizing, everyone has personal issues to attend to after all." He commented with an surprising smile on his face, understanding that it would be bound to happen anyway; and as much of a strict teacher he looked like, he also understood that everyone had their issues to deal with.

He then muttered something in French for the Chancellor and then looked at both of them, bowing respectfully to the pair before leaving them on their own. Jessica had to explain why he left before an misunderstanding could happen.

"He told me he was to leave us alone since he had to deal with some papers he wanted to check before we get to the tram; and that he also appreciates your help even if he didn't said it." She smiled at Safir before continue. "Sir Vanderbilt has never been one of saying such words as thank you, letting his smile say it all for him."

Athena Freezis
She sighed in relief at that comment from the Priestess, she shouldn't have to worry about that for the time being thankfully. Athena had indeed quite the difficulties to find someone who loved by who she was and no who she is, an Marquis and Marquise Daughter who next year will have the honour of bear such title alongside the head of an massive multinational corporate group, even if back at home she had been with people who was genuine on loving her for who she was out of her obligations, title and wealth; she still had to be careful of falling for someone who sees her titles and wealth but no who she was truthfully, a woman so carefree yet so serious, cold when the situation calls and clever.
Athena Freezis was an interesting woman, one who felt proud of who she was and one that was glad of finding that special person. Still; she blushed when asked if they were engaged.

"I wish we were; but step by step right? I mean I think we did some steps back at the festival but not for that to happen for now." She wished sooner or later they got to that point, for her a life without Leo wouldn't be the same.

Edward Dileva
Ahh the rules of the handmaidens, he readed about them with his wife after their time in Sinope and had to read them back before the travel like the rest of the delegation members and Her Majesty to make sure they didn't made something embarassing for everyone. Of course the rules had to be modified for the face mask, to which the businessman nodded and didn't worried about waiting, safety first after all.

As soon as she finished with the answer, he thought about it and perhaps he should call the maids Her Majesty brought for her and her protection; as such he motioned for the handmaiden to wait for a few minutes while he called the maids of The Queen.
He whispered at them everything regarding the banners and as they two knew Her Majesty much better than him; they might certainly be the better ones to speak.

"We will make sure to ask Her Majesty if she's interested in the banners considering your protocol, but we are certain she would love to take some of them with her back home." The white haired maid spoke calm yet serious while her blonde haired partner went to speak with Her Majesty regarding the banners, it shouldn't take long for sure.

[Kyrenaia]

Callista IV of Mervay
Ahh, so she was right in the end; an personal issue was and related to an former lover before she met Duchess Villa of AHSCA. Well she wasn't one to involve unless necessary and this time it wasn't more than the basics. She wasn't one to give advice about love when she didn't had a boyfriend or girlfriend for the matter, but; it seemed those two are good friends now.
She giggled a bit at the recomendation from Aurelia regarding Atif and as such answered back with a fond smile to the Princess.

"It is a wonderful idea; it will be an honour to meet him and dance with him." Her Majesty commented before eating another of the dates, they were really delicious. After that however she thought about that relationship; perhaps it would be better to ask and see if those two lovely birds made any advance.

"My apologies for the next question Your Highness but; how is the relationship between you and Duchess Villa going on, I assume you two had been able to advance to be close that step you two are waiting right?" That step was certainly knew by Aurelia, after all, it was the goal of every relationship; marriage.

Jessica Dileva and Lorentz Vanderbilt
Refreshments were out the table as the consensus was clear on that area for a pleasing talk after all; of course they still had to deal with the pressing issues but then again she was prepared for these and knew well they would take quite a bit of the talks, but even so, they would be pleasant too regarding the two foreign affairs ministers. Then of course the treasurer asked the reason his counterpart was absent; to which gave an understanding nod at it considering personal problems had always been difficult for everyone and couldn't blame him for having when everyone does.

"I will rely soon as I meet Vizier Ibn-al-Hakim that he shouldn't be apologizing, everyone has personal issues to attend to after all." He commented with an surprising smile on his face, understanding that it would be bound to happen anyway; and as much of a strict teacher he looked like, he also understood that everyone had their issues to deal with.

He then muttered something in French for the Chancellor and then looked at both of them, bowing respectfully to the pair before leaving them on their own. Jessica had to explain why he left before an misunderstanding could happen.

"He told me he was to leave us alone since he had to deal with some papers he wanted to check before we get to the tram; and that he also appreciates your help even if he didn't said it." She smiled at Safir before continue. "Sir Vanderbilt has never been one of saying such words as thank you, letting his smile say it all for him."

Athena Freezis
She sighed in relief at that comment from the Priestess, she shouldn't have to worry about that for the time being thankfully. Athena had indeed quite the difficulties to find someone who loved by who she was and no who she is, an Marquis and Marquise Daughter who next year will have the honour of bear such title alongside the head of an massive multinational corporate group, even if back at home she had been with people who was genuine on loving her for who she was out of her obligations, title and wealth; she still had to be careful of falling for someone who sees her titles and wealth but no who she was truthfully, a woman so carefree yet so serious, cold when the situation calls and clever.
Athena Freezis was an interesting woman, one who felt proud of who she was and one that was glad of finding that special person. Still; she blushed when asked if they were engaged.

"I wish we were; but step by step right? I mean I think we did some steps back at the festival but not for that to happen for now." She wished sooner or later they got to that point, for her a life without Leo wouldn't be the same.

Edward Dileva
Ahh the rules of the handmaidens, he readed about them with his wife after their time in Sinope and had to read them back before the travel like the rest of the delegation members and Her Majesty to make sure they didn't made something embarassing for everyone. Of course the rules had to be modified for the face mask, to which the businessman nodded and didn't worried about waiting, safety first after all.

As soon as she finished with the answer, he thought about it and perhaps he should call the maids Her Majesty brought for her and her protection; as such he motioned for the handmaiden to wait for a few minutes while he called the maids of The Queen.
He whispered at them everything regarding the banners and as they two knew Her Majesty much better than him; they might certainly be the better ones to speak.

"We will make sure to ask Her Majesty if she's interested in the banners considering your protocol, but we are certain she would love to take some of them with her back home." The white haired maid spoke calm yet serious while her blonde haired partner went to speak with Her Majesty regarding the banners, it shouldn't take long for sure.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I nodded at Callista's approval of my idea with Atif - I would make the appropriate arrangements.
As she asked about me and Marcella, I smiled slightly.
"We are...", I said and paused for a moment, "We are proceeding at our own time. We are mostly having a relationship at a distance, mostly through letters and calls, but that makes us reuniting all the more worthwile." Like a month ago. "Allow me to be honest with you - I want to marry that woman. I want to marry her according to the rites of the Islands and of Kyrenaia, though, and with the laws being as they are, the latter might remain complicated for now. Rest assured, though, the Movement for a Change in the Law of Marriage is still at it, Pandemic or no Pandemic."

Azad Safir.
I nodded.
"I know this kind of person.", I said and smiled, "During my studies, I worked in a small corner store and my boss back then was the same. It was also hard to please that man in general."
I took a sip of water.
"Generally speaking, however, we all have a lot to prepare for.", I said and downed the rest of my glass. "The Sultanate is very keen on establishing good relations with Mervay, both politically and economically. There's a reason, why we brought out our Diplomatic A-Team."
The last was accompanied by a nod in the general direction of where Princess Aurelia and Queen Callista were talking.

Fara Hailb.
"May Manat weave it so into Her Tapestry.", I said with a small smile, "You two looked really happy."
Leo didn't look, at least in my memory, like a great romantic, but like a pretty straight-forward guy, which was a positive quality of its own. Granted, flower beds and heart-shaped chocolades weren't exactly the norm, then, but Athena didn't strike me as someone, who would go in for that either.
"Any plans on when you might meet him next?", I asked.

Marla Sahrar of the Tribe of Wicklow.
I smiled and nodded to my 'colleagues' - I knew, that the two weren't 'only' Handmaidens, but Queen Callista's Bodyguards, much like many of the Handmaidens were also Tabardariyya, thus technically also the Sultana's bodyguards. I had not yet gone through the training, but I was thinking, that being a Handmaiden was enough for me.
Regardless, I replied: "I will ask on my side as well. I don't think, that there will be many problems either."

[Mervay]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I nodded at Callista's approval of my idea with Atif - I would make the appropriate arrangements.
As she asked about me and Marcella, I smiled slightly.
"We are...", I said and paused for a moment, "We are proceeding at our own time. We are mostly having a relationship at a distance, mostly through letters and calls, but that makes us reuniting all the more worthwile." Like a month ago. "Allow me to be honest with you - I want to marry that woman. I want to marry her according to the rites of the Islands and of Kyrenaia, though, and with the laws being as they are, the latter might remain complicated for now. Rest assured, though, the Movement for a Change in the Law of Marriage is still at it, Pandemic or no Pandemic."

Azad Safir.
I nodded.
"I know this kind of person.", I said and smiled, "During my studies, I worked in a small corner store and my boss back then was the same. It was also hard to please that man in general."
I took a sip of water.
"Generally speaking, however, we all have a lot to prepare for.", I said and downed the rest of my glass. "The Sultanate is very keen on establishing good relations with Mervay, both politically and economically. There's a reason, why we brought out our Diplomatic A-Team."
The last was accompanied by a nod in the general direction of where Princess Aurelia and Queen Callista were talking.

Fara Hailb.
"May Manat weave it so into Her Tapestry.", I said with a small smile, "You two looked really happy."
Leo didn't look, at least in my memory, like a great romantic, but like a pretty straight-forward guy, which was a positive quality of its own. Granted, flower beds and heart-shaped chocolades weren't exactly the norm, then, but Athena didn't strike me as someone, who would go in for that either.
"Any plans on when you might meet him next?", I asked.

Marla Sahrar of the Tribe of Wicklow.
I smiled and nodded to my 'colleagues' - I knew, that the two weren't 'only' Handmaidens, but Queen Callista's Bodyguards, much like many of the Handmaidens were also Tabardariyya, thus technically also the Sultana's bodyguards. I had not yet gone through the training, but I was thinking, that being a Handmaiden was enough for me.
Regardless, I replied: "I will ask on my side as well. I don't think, that there will be many problems either."

Callista IV of Mervay
Ahh so that long distance relationship was still kept, she couldn't blame them, she knew the Chancellor's Daughter and a close friend of her; had a similar case even if she was since August in AHSCA with her wife and for all she knew it wouldn't return before march of next year at most. She smiled at the sight of the determination of the Princess for her objective to achieve that goal that gave people freedom, the right of you marrying whoever you want no matter their gender; she supported such ideas and well it might or not be a secret but she was bisexual.

"I would like to advice that you have my support and so does the entirety of the movement as I respect and support such rights." She said to the Princess while letting out an smile off her face. "You might not know about it but I'm bisexual and I support with my soul the movement; and I hope-" she cut while thinking about what to say before a teasing glare got on her eyes.

"You invite me to be present at your wedding with her." She giggled teasingly before returning to her calm demeanor.

Their talk was interrupted for a bit by one of her maids, the blonde one on this case. She bowed in apology to both for interrupting them.

"My apologies my ladies but, Your Majesty; May you give me a word with you." She asked on her cold tone but what it could be noticed alongside that was a fond glare at the woman she served, that same glare repeated when looking at Callista at her too like, friendship. A bond she made not only with her but also her other maid after she was assigned to serve her. The Queen smiled before finally replying.

"Yes, Ada." And as such they had their conversation in one of their home languages, Italian. It was a fairly quickly talk but her eyes spiked at something she mentioned to Her Majesty; it was a little more and it ended with her maid nodding and returning from where she came while Callista returned her attention to the Princess.

"My apologies, but she wanted to talk with me about something regarding the banners that we were welcomed with and if I wanted to take a few of them with me when I leave the Sultanate, to which I told her yes." She grinned happily at the Princess, it would be a nice gift of farewell as she loved how she was recived by the people even if they weren't able to be present here today.

Jessica Dileva
So he had the same situation, well that was interesting for sure, she knew Vanderbilt well after working a year with him on the cabinet and it took a while to get to know him greatly when he focused on his work and work alone when seen around the halls of the Royal Palace, Parliament or the building of The Treasury Office.

"I see, I guess that helps you to get used to it as there's always that kind of people that are tough to get into." Jess said while thinking a tad bit more of it before continue hearing Sir Safir. From what it could heard of his words, Mervay wasn't the only one that brought it's heavy artillery then; it was key that Asteria got out with an close relationship with the Sultanate and also an alliance with it.

"Indeed. Asteria's objectives allign with your government ones Minister; but my government wants to take a step further and see if an alliance is possible considering our situation and how our states are allied with the same allies." There was no need to say which nations was she talking about as it was known.

Athena Freezis
"T-thank you." She smiled warmly at that comment, they did really looked like a cute couple and while she had to admit Leo wasn't a great romantic, but his honesty was for her a great aspect she loved dearly and not the heart-shaped chocolates and other things that could be well, worth in valentines day or a wedding, but not for a relationship most of the time. Still she hoped she could advance even further with him than what was already in Ironcastle.

"Not for the moment if I have to be honest, there's a carnival and a ball around january of next year but I don't if it will be held because of the pandemic." That was the most difficult part of all, the Masquerade Carnival was the closest event and even so she had to wait until next year alongside the event that was happening just at the middle of the carnival, the Masquerade Ball. If that wasn't possible then she had a Plan B that was to invite him to Mervay and spend a few weeks with her alone albeit before they get to enjoy, her family would surely love to meet him; so many plans.

"In case it's not possible the first two, I'm thinking on something else as my family is interested on meet him completely."

Edward Dileva
It took a few minutes before Ada returned with the response of Her Majesty and for all Edward knew, it would certainly be a yes considering how her eyes spiked when she talked with her maid; and with both the businessman and the white haired maid, they glared each other with the fact they already could see which would be the answer. And so it was when the blonde haired maid returned with the response of The Queen.

"Her Majesty would be pleased if she could take with her back to our nation some of the banners displayed today and that if you could consult said issue and give us a response before we leave to the train station Ma'am."

[Kyrenaia]

Callista IV of Mervay
Ahh so that long distance relationship was still kept, she couldn't blame them, she knew the Chancellor's Daughter and a close friend of her; had a similar case even if she was since August in AHSCA with her wife and for all she knew it wouldn't return before march of next year at most. She smiled at the sight of the determination of the Princess for her objective to achieve that goal that gave people freedom, the right of you marrying whoever you want no matter their gender; she supported such ideas and well it might or not be a secret but she was bisexual.

"I would like to advice that you have my support and so does the entirety of the movement as I respect and support such rights." She said to the Princess while letting out an smile off her face. "You might not know about it but I'm bisexual and I support with my soul the movement; and I hope-" she cut while thinking about what to say before a teasing glare got on her eyes.

"You invite me to be present at your wedding with her." She giggled teasingly before returning to her calm demeanor.

Their talk was interrupted for a bit by one of her maids, the blonde one on this case. She bowed in apology to both for interrupting them.

"My apologies my ladies but, Your Majesty; May you give me a word with you." She asked on her cold tone but what it could be noticed alongside that was a fond glare at the woman she served, that same glare repeated when looking at Callista at her too like, friendship. A bond she made not only with her but also her other maid after she was assigned to serve her. The Queen smiled before finally replying.

"Yes, Ada." And as such they had their conversation in one of their home languages, Italian. It was a fairly quickly talk but her eyes spiked at something she mentioned to Her Majesty; it was a little more and it ended with her maid nodding and returning from where she came while Callista returned her attention to the Princess.

"My apologies, but she wanted to talk with me about something regarding the banners that we were welcomed with and if I wanted to take a few of them with me when I leave the Sultanate, to which I told her yes." She grinned happily at the Princess, it would be a nice gift of farewell as she loved how she was recived by the people even if they weren't able to be present here today.

Jessica Dileva
So he had the same situation, well that was interesting for sure, she knew Vanderbilt well after working a year with him on the cabinet and it took a while to get to know him greatly when he focused on his work and work alone when seen around the halls of the Royal Palace, Parliament or the building of The Treasury Office.

"I see, I guess that helps you to get used to it as there's always that kind of people that are tough to get into." Jess said while thinking a tad bit more of it before continue hearing Sir Safir. From what it could heard of his words, Mervay wasn't the only one that brought it's heavy artillery then; it was key that Asteria got out with an close relationship with the Sultanate and also an alliance with it.

"Indeed. Asteria's objectives allign with your government ones Minister; but my government wants to take a step further and see if an alliance is possible considering our situation and how our states are allied with the same allies." There was no need to say which nations was she talking about as it was known.

Athena Freezis
"T-thank you." She smiled warmly at that comment, they did really looked like a cute couple and while she had to admit Leo wasn't a great romantic, but his honesty was for her a great aspect she loved dearly and not the heart-shaped chocolates and other things that could be well, worth in valentines day or a wedding, but not for a relationship most of the time. Still she hoped she could advance even further with him than what was already in Ironcastle.

"Not for the moment if I have to be honest, there's a carnival and a ball around january of next year but I don't if it will be held because of the pandemic." That was the most difficult part of all, the Masquerade Carnival was the closest event and even so she had to wait until next year alongside the event that was happening just at the middle of the carnival, the Masquerade Ball. If that wasn't possible then she had a Plan B that was to invite him to Mervay and spend a few weeks with her alone albeit before they get to enjoy, her family would surely love to meet him; so many plans.

"In case it's not possible the first two, I'm thinking on something else as my family is interested on meet him completely."

Edward Dileva
It took a few minutes before Ada returned with the response of Her Majesty and for all Edward knew, it would certainly be a yes considering how her eyes spiked when she talked with her maid; and with both the businessman and the white haired maid, they glared each other with the fact they already could see which would be the answer. And so it was when the blonde haired maid returned with the response of The Queen.

"Her Majesty would be pleased if she could take with her back to our nation some of the banners displayed today and that if you could consult said issue and give us a response before we leave to the train station Ma'am."

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I smiled and nodded, having waited and busied myself with picking another nice date during the conversation Callista had with her Handmaiden. I, too, knew, that they had a background, which was not too dissimilar from Sarina's, but I decided not to comment.
In any case, a nice date in mouth, I smiled and nodded at Callista.
Swallowed.
"No problem at all.", I said as soon as my mouth was free again. "I understand the sentiment as well and..." Another handmaiden, this time one of ours, came up and nodded. I smiled at Callista and shrugged. "...and it appears, that this time, it's me. If you'd excuse me for a moment, please?"
And with that, I turned to the young woman, who whispered something into my ear in Kyrenaian, making me nod. I thanked her and dismissed her.
Turning back to my conversation partner, I smiled. "My apologies. It seems like we are right on schedule for the next leg of our journey.", I said and let a beat pass. "Ready when you are!"

Azad Safir.
I nodded, a bit slowly, admittedly.
An alliance was... quite a large thing. It would require thorough consideration and planning, coordination and quite a few other things, which ended with -ation. But it would be doable.
"In due time, I can see an alliance between our two great nations coming.", I said diplomatically, "But right now, there is no need to rush. We just walked out onto the long street of diplomatic relations - no need to reach for the stars quite yet." I smiled and winked at her. "We can keep an eye on them, though."

Fara Hailb.
"I can imagine, that they want to meet the young man, who stole your heart away.", I said and remembered my boyfriends and how they met my family. Fun dinners, lemme tell you. "They will put him under a lot of scrutiny and observation, maybe even be unfair to him. Be there for him, stand by his side, but also let him stand on his own." I let a beat pass. "And give him a refresher in proper manners."
The last was added with a wink.

Marla Sahrar of the Tribe of Wicklow.
I nodded and then bowed my head.
"I'll be back in a moment.", I told them and departed their side, putting on my veil again.
I will spare you the gritty details of what happened then, it was not that interesting anyway. We were all bugged, us Handmaidens, having a wite tap hidden somewhere (no, I will not tell you where) and using this modern technology to our advantage. In this case, this meant, that the central post of this operation was in the know already concerning the banners.
As I floated out of the line of sight, a colleague was already expecting me, telling me, that all was well and that it would be prepared.
As I returned with a smile, I bowed my head, took off the veil and put on a face mask again. I then told Dileva: "We will prepare the banners for you to take along."

[Mervay]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I smiled and nodded, having waited and busied myself with picking another nice date during the conversation Callista had with her Handmaiden. I, too, knew, that they had a background, which was not too dissimilar from Sarina's, but I decided not to comment.
In any case, a nice date in mouth, I smiled and nodded at Callista.
Swallowed.
"No problem at all.", I said as soon as my mouth was free again. "I understand the sentiment as well and..." Another handmaiden, this time one of ours, came up and nodded. I smiled at Callista and shrugged. "...and it appears, that this time, it's me. If you'd excuse me for a moment, please?"
And with that, I turned to the young woman, who whispered something into my ear in Kyrenaian, making me nod. I thanked her and dismissed her.
Turning back to my conversation partner, I smiled. "My apologies. It seems like we are right on schedule for the next leg of our journey.", I said and let a beat pass. "Ready when you are!"

Azad Safir.
I nodded, a bit slowly, admittedly.
An alliance was... quite a large thing. It would require thorough consideration and planning, coordination and quite a few other things, which ended with -ation. But it would be doable.
"In due time, I can see an alliance between our two great nations coming.", I said diplomatically, "But right now, there is no need to rush. We just walked out onto the long street of diplomatic relations - no need to reach for the stars quite yet." I smiled and winked at her. "We can keep an eye on them, though."

Fara Hailb.
"I can imagine, that they want to meet the young man, who stole your heart away.", I said and remembered my boyfriends and how they met my family. Fun dinners, lemme tell you. "They will put him under a lot of scrutiny and observation, maybe even be unfair to him. Be there for him, stand by his side, but also let him stand on his own." I let a beat pass. "And give him a refresher in proper manners."
The last was added with a wink.

Marla Sahrar of the Tribe of Wicklow.
I nodded and then bowed my head.
"I'll be back in a moment.", I told them and departed their side, putting on my veil again.
I will spare you the gritty details of what happened then, it was not that interesting anyway. We were all bugged, us Handmaidens, having a wite tap hidden somewhere (no, I will not tell you where) and using this modern technology to our advantage. In this case, this meant, that the central post of this operation was in the know already concerning the banners.
As I floated out of the line of sight, a colleague was already expecting me, telling me, that all was well and that it would be prepared.
As I returned with a smile, I bowed my head, took off the veil and put on a face mask again. I then told Dileva: "We will prepare the banners for you to take along."

Callista IV of Mervay
This time it was her turn it seemed to have an talk with her handmaidens, whatever it was did certainly had to do with them having to move to their next phase of the travel or having an delay on the schedule; well those were two options, the other one was a more personal one if so, but then again; what could had happened to for such thing? Unlikely seeing how Aurelia acted like normal so, it was the first option for sure. And it was confirmed the moment the princess told her that, making the blonde young woman smile before giving a small clap on her palms.

"Oh well, perhaps we'll have time to continue our conversation later on I guess." She said with a small and radiant smile. "I'm ready from my part, so if you excuse me a minute." She called one of her maids, this time the white haired woman that was to serve her alongside the blonde maid that was besides her, Aurelia could only make up her name, which was Alice, before she whispered that she adviced the rest to prepare to move since they were leaving.

Jessica Dileva
Perhaps she should had explained herself better considering he was indeed right and she knew it, it would certainly take a lot of time, effort and trust; all of which were in their hands to work with. She nodded with what he said.

"Of course, let's not get to ahead of ourselves." Jessica said while letting a giggle out at the wink. "If you may forgive I also worded myself wrong; I've meant to say in a long term, which is something that I omitted without notice for which I apologize." She slightly bowed before having a maid besides her, motioning to have an small conversation, which she gladly obliged and only nodded when it ended to then look back at Safir.

"I wish to continue this conversation, but we have to move to the next stage of the travel." She said giving her counterpart an small curtsy; "It was a pleasure to speak with you Mr. Safir; I'll see you later." She said walking off to where her husband was so they went together.

Athena Freezis
"Considering everything it's fair to say they will react positively and also want to make sure he's good for being that person I want to spend my life with, indeed." She could reply to that knowing well to what kind of talks her parents would get with, she was to become Marquise or Marchioness in english, by Christmas alongside being the corporate head of an important multinational corporate group back home, but she was sure Leo would surprise them in a good way; her family was nice and would support their relationship when they see this was serious and long term, in other words that she wanted him in her life. The businesswoman smiled warmly at the advice of the priestess, knowing well it was worth it.

"I will make sure he's my rock as much as I will be his and I will help him in whatever he needs when the time comes." Athena could only let a slight smile full of warm as she thought of that moment; of course she then blushed a bit by what the priestess said then, however she was saved by a maid which whispered that it was time for them to leave to the palace; to which made her glare back at Miss Halib.

"It appears I must leave, we're right on schedule at the moment." The violet eyed young woman said with a sad smile, it was fun to talk with her and see her again, perhaps... "If you let me ask you this before leaving Miss Halib. It wouldn't be a problem if I had a way to contact you? It was nice talking with you."

Edward Dileva
Well that was quick, at least this was an simple issue that wouldn't be brought back until they were in their last day of their journey here; the businessman could only help but let a small beneath the face mask he wore before correcting the handmaiden.

"Not for me miss, but for Her Majesty." After that he bowed in appreciation for the favour while his wife came besides him, smiling behind her mask as well before she whispered something to his ear. To which he nodded and glared back at the handmaiden.

"I appreciate the favour and I'm sure Her Majesty's Maids will pick them up in our leave of the Sultanate; but for now we must leave to our next part of the journey." He glared at his beloved before focusing back in Marla and giving an slightly bow. "Thank you for everything and if we don't see each other in the rest of the journey, I bid you adieu."

After a few minutes, everyone was back together to where they started. All of them having rested well enough to now move to their next part of the travel that will take them where their host was waiting for them; for Her Majesty, she was interested in meet the Sultana and have a nice talk with her during the next four days. If all went well, the relationships between both nations will be closer.

[Kyrenaia]

Callista IV of Mervay
This time it was her turn it seemed to have an talk with her handmaidens, whatever it was did certainly had to do with them having to move to their next phase of the travel or having an delay on the schedule; well those were two options, the other one was a more personal one if so, but then again; what could had happened to for such thing? Unlikely seeing how Aurelia acted like normal so, it was the first option for sure. And it was confirmed the moment the princess told her that, making the blonde young woman smile before giving a small clap on her palms.

"Oh well, perhaps we'll have time to continue our conversation later on I guess." She said with a small and radiant smile. "I'm ready from my part, so if you excuse me a minute." She called one of her maids, this time the white haired woman that was to serve her alongside the blonde maid that was besides her, Aurelia could only make up her name, which was Alice, before she whispered that she adviced the rest to prepare to move since they were leaving.

Jessica Dileva
Perhaps she should had explained herself better considering he was indeed right and she knew it, it would certainly take a lot of time, effort and trust; all of which were in their hands to work with. She nodded with what he said.

"Of course, let's not get to ahead of ourselves." Jessica said while letting a giggle out at the wink. "If you may forgive I also worded myself wrong; I've meant to say in a long term, which is something that I omitted without notice for which I apologize." She slightly bowed before having a maid besides her, motioning to have an small conversation, which she gladly obliged and only nodded when it ended to then look back at Safir.

"I wish to continue this conversation, but we have to move to the next stage of the travel." She said giving her counterpart an small curtsy; "It was a pleasure to speak with you Mr. Safir; I'll see you later." She said walking off to where her husband was so they went together.

Athena Freezis
"Considering everything it's fair to say they will react positively and also want to make sure he's good for being that person I want to spend my life with, indeed." She could reply to that knowing well to what kind of talks her parents would get with, she was to become Marquise or Marchioness in english, by Christmas alongside being the corporate head of an important multinational corporate group back home, but she was sure Leo would surprise them in a good way; her family was nice and would support their relationship when they see this was serious and long term, in other words that she wanted him in her life. The businesswoman smiled warmly at the advice of the priestess, knowing well it was worth it.

"I will make sure he's my rock as much as I will be his and I will help him in whatever he needs when the time comes." Athena could only let a slight smile full of warm as she thought of that moment; of course she then blushed a bit by what the priestess said then, however she was saved by a maid which whispered that it was time for them to leave to the palace; to which made her glare back at Miss Halib.

"It appears I must leave, we're right on schedule at the moment." The violet eyed young woman said with a sad smile, it was fun to talk with her and see her again, perhaps... "If you let me ask you this before leaving Miss Halib. It wouldn't be a problem if I had a way to contact you? It was nice talking with you."

Edward Dileva
Well that was quick, at least this was an simple issue that wouldn't be brought back until they were in their last day of their journey here; the businessman could only help but let a small beneath the face mask he wore before correcting the handmaiden.

"Not for me miss, but for Her Majesty." After that he bowed in appreciation for the favour while his wife came besides him, smiling behind her mask as well before she whispered something to his ear. To which he nodded and glared back at the handmaiden.

"I appreciate the favour and I'm sure Her Majesty's Maids will pick them up in our leave of the Sultanate; but for now we must leave to our next part of the journey." He glared at his beloved before focusing back in Marla and giving an slightly bow. "Thank you for everything and if we don't see each other in the rest of the journey, I bid you adieu."

After a few minutes, everyone was back together to where they started. All of them having rested well enough to now move to their next part of the travel that will take them where their host was waiting for them; for Her Majesty, she was interested in meet the Sultana and have a nice talk with her during the next four days. If all went well, the relationships between both nations will be closer.

Azad Safir.
I smiled.
"The pleasure was all mine, Madame Dileva.", I told her and I meant it, "I hope, that we meet again sooner rather then later."
This has been a very fruitful first meeting with my opposite number, I must say: A huge part of diplomacy was to see, what the other party (or parties) were interested in and to see, where and how the own interests met or clashed and how one could make things work peacefully. Foreign Policy under Razia-Sultana was mostly aimed at arranging oneself with other people, soft influence instead of the hard and explosive influence of other means.
Aurelia was a part of that strategy, though not many people knew of that, least of all she herself. She was still ensnared in the image of undying love and passion and... my wife would pity her.
Regardless, talking to Madame Dileva had shown, that we had similar objectives in the long run. That was very good. It was something we could work with splendidly.

Fara Hailb.
I smiled and nodded.
"Sure, it was fun talking to you as well.", I replied and thought for a moment. Captain Elba of Utica Met was nearby, so I motioned for her to come closer. I will spare you the details, but after the Captain had greeted Athena, I asked her for a pen, which she gave me, and I grabbed a napkin, writing down my e-mail address on it. I handed the napkin to Athena and the pen back to Captain Elba.
"There we go. My e-mail. When you have the time, write to me.", I asked of her, "Until then... may Manat have an eye on both you and your boyfriend."
Elba, a bit confused, nodded.

Marla Sahrar of the Tribe of Wicklow.
"Have a safe trip.", I wished upon the very polite man and let him, and the Handmaiden, go.
A moment later, my mouth mask was gone and the veil on again - back to being a simple Handmaiden among many. Once the delegation was out of sight and earshot, we would start cleaning up, leaving the place well-swept, and return to the Palace of the Azure Hall with everything we had brought here. The buffet's remains would come with us, placed in the buffet of the Handmaiden Dorm of the Palace for all to nibble on.
The other guests would return to their duties as well.
It was a well-practiced procedure.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Once everyone was assembled, I smiled and nodded.
Everyone was there, we hadn't lost anyone or left them at the wrong stop.
"Alright, then.", I said and turned towards the escalator leading down under the earth, "Please follow me. We'll take the tram to Utica Main Railway Station now."
And indeed, after the ride on the escalator and past a security checkpoint manned by two police officers in dress uniforms, who bowed their heads to us, we were down in the terminal's basement - the tram station. A total of ten platforms were here, able to park and house as many trains in this final, terminal stop in this huge cavern, carved and blasted out of the rock. Arches and pillars held the ceiling up while the walls were covered by concrete and plaster, the latter decorated by magnificent frescoes depicting...
...trains.
Well, it was a railway station, so trains was a natural choice of motif. Trains, from the first vehicles moving on tracks to what was modern at the time of the painting, which was one of the bullet trains of highest speed, which ran through the deserts.
A small section by the escalators was not plastered, though, showing the natural stone.
Where we came out, though, we had a splendid view of the station, but were not on the platform already: We were in a waiting area or station shop area, if you will, a small closed restaurant in the back, a few shops along the wall as well as the ticket counters.
Out train would depart from Platform 1, a polished tram used for such occassions, and it was already nearby. The ticket inspector stood already by the door, which reminded me.
I pulled out a wad of papers, handing the tickets to my travelling companions: "There you go.", I said.
The tickets were a bit of a joke, a souvenir to hold on to, but there was also a bit of a serious nature to it: Law required everyone boarding a train in the Sultanate to have a ticket. These ones were of the standard format, but had a special design, with the Mervayan and the Kyrenaian flag on it, departure time, estimated time of arrival, departure station and arrival station. On normal tickets, there was also the price noted, but on these, there was no price listed, instead written, in both English and Kyrenaian: FREE.
Police officers, half a dozen, were already on board as well, but in discreet positions.
All was ready and waiting on us.

[Mervay]

Azad Safir.
I smiled.
"The pleasure was all mine, Madame Dileva.", I told her and I meant it, "I hope, that we meet again sooner rather then later."
This has been a very fruitful first meeting with my opposite number, I must say: A huge part of diplomacy was to see, what the other party (or parties) were interested in and to see, where and how the own interests met or clashed and how one could make things work peacefully. Foreign Policy under Razia-Sultana was mostly aimed at arranging oneself with other people, soft influence instead of the hard and explosive influence of other means.
Aurelia was a part of that strategy, though not many people knew of that, least of all she herself. She was still ensnared in the image of undying love and passion and... my wife would pity her.
Regardless, talking to Madame Dileva had shown, that we had similar objectives in the long run. That was very good. It was something we could work with splendidly.

Fara Hailb.
I smiled and nodded.
"Sure, it was fun talking to you as well.", I replied and thought for a moment. Captain Elba of Utica Met was nearby, so I motioned for her to come closer. I will spare you the details, but after the Captain had greeted Athena, I asked her for a pen, which she gave me, and I grabbed a napkin, writing down my e-mail address on it. I handed the napkin to Athena and the pen back to Captain Elba.
"There we go. My e-mail. When you have the time, write to me.", I asked of her, "Until then... may Manat have an eye on both you and your boyfriend."
Elba, a bit confused, nodded.

Marla Sahrar of the Tribe of Wicklow.
"Have a safe trip.", I wished upon the very polite man and let him, and the Handmaiden, go.
A moment later, my mouth mask was gone and the veil on again - back to being a simple Handmaiden among many. Once the delegation was out of sight and earshot, we would start cleaning up, leaving the place well-swept, and return to the Palace of the Azure Hall with everything we had brought here. The buffet's remains would come with us, placed in the buffet of the Handmaiden Dorm of the Palace for all to nibble on.
The other guests would return to their duties as well.
It was a well-practiced procedure.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Once everyone was assembled, I smiled and nodded.
Everyone was there, we hadn't lost anyone or left them at the wrong stop.
"Alright, then.", I said and turned towards the escalator leading down under the earth, "Please follow me. We'll take the tram to Utica Main Railway Station now."
And indeed, after the ride on the escalator and past a security checkpoint manned by two police officers in dress uniforms, who bowed their heads to us, we were down in the terminal's basement - the tram station. A total of ten platforms were here, able to park and house as many trains in this final, terminal stop in this huge cavern, carved and blasted out of the rock. Arches and pillars held the ceiling up while the walls were covered by concrete and plaster, the latter decorated by magnificent frescoes depicting...
...trains.
Well, it was a railway station, so trains was a natural choice of motif. Trains, from the first vehicles moving on tracks to what was modern at the time of the painting, which was one of the bullet trains of highest speed, which ran through the deserts.
A small section by the escalators was not plastered, though, showing the natural stone.
Where we came out, though, we had a splendid view of the station, but were not on the platform already: We were in a waiting area or station shop area, if you will, a small closed restaurant in the back, a few shops along the wall as well as the ticket counters.
Out train would depart from Platform 1, a polished tram used for such occassions, and it was already nearby. The ticket inspector stood already by the door, which reminded me.
I pulled out a wad of papers, handing the tickets to my travelling companions: "There you go.", I said.
The tickets were a bit of a joke, a souvenir to hold on to, but there was also a bit of a serious nature to it: Law required everyone boarding a train in the Sultanate to have a ticket. These ones were of the standard format, but had a special design, with the Mervayan and the Kyrenaian flag on it, departure time, estimated time of arrival, departure station and arrival station. On normal tickets, there was also the price noted, but on these, there was no price listed, instead written, in both English and Kyrenaian: FREE.
Police officers, half a dozen, were already on board as well, but in discreet positions.
All was ready and waiting on us.

Jessica Dileva
It was the perfect way to see the interests of both and their objectives, after all they had to see what the other wanted even if some could keep their cards close to their heart and souls rather than leave them exposed; something she learned by studies and by practice herself, in one occasion where she mediated for that peace treaty six years ago, a year before had to deal with an life attempt against her person by the hardliners of the Yuktobanian Government under the guise of a radical group there supported by the infamous Bolganio Club. But, it was something she wouldn't want to say today, even if she came out alive and well from that long forgotten incident; she had moved on long ago. Now her focus lied in the approachment to the Sultanate as their interests alligned in the long term picture; even their tactics were similar, the use of soft power always a good way to gain the hearts and minds abroad rather than the use of the hard power, for them The Queen, their sovereign; played gladly in her part of this strategy planned by the three of them, the Chancellor, the Prime Minister and Her Majesty.
Certainly negogiations will play out interestingly.

Athena Freezis
She was certainly glad of it, having found someone to talk and that if get to know her better could consider a friend; of course Athena made sure the Priestess had her e-mail, her personal more exactly as she had three to manage, the rest regarding corporate affairs completely. She can certainly pray and hope that what she has with Leo is permanent and of that, she's sure that it is; her excitement of having her feelings answered was one which she loved and knew they could be together for their lives.
Of course, perhaps the romance could wait as she had pressing issues to attend to and those were all related to set a foot here, grab a piece of the cake in the Kyrenaian Market and in their sphere of influence; step by step, as that will be an interesting process for sure; but one that will give results.

Callista IV of Mervay
After everyone was assembled, they were led by the Princess to the escalator that would take them to their next transport of the journey in a quick travel down and past the security checkpoint, they were in the terminal station that connected the airport to the city if using the public transport. The Queen was amazed by how this station could be in such massive cavern, clearly this airport was completely interesting, she eyed at the entire station before moving her eyes to the platform where their vehicle would be waiting for them; they certainly prepared it well for the day.
Before she could make any comments in the station however, Aurelia handed them over their tickets for them to present to the inspector; tickets that were decorated especially for the visit; one for her chest of memories then. They would be a way to remember the visit and hopefully, the first of many memories here; plus it reminded her of those tickets that were always prepared for state visits back in the last century, that and the fact back at home tickets are becoming a relic of the past as the tech corporations develop new smart ways to replace them and the ticket barriers in a few years. They will be only seen in airplanes if so.

Callista accepted the tickets with a amused, but kind glare as she handed over the tickets to the delegation members, the service personnel would travel with their baggage, that included Her Majesty's maids too, everyone would rather evade that it happens one of the cliche in movies in airports, lost luggage.

They all nodded at the gesture and presented their tickets to the inspector; normal procedure like back at home when taking the train. Of course as soon as they got in they noticed other guests, more exactly officers that would escort them through the travel to the station; it made Callista consider that she could had called her maids for support just in case, but; considering the amount of people here, better not.

Now they can finally get to the station.

[Kyrenaia]

Jessica Dileva
It was the perfect way to see the interests of both and their objectives, after all they had to see what the other wanted even if some could keep their cards close to their heart and souls rather than leave them exposed; something she learned by studies and by practice herself, in one occasion where she mediated for that peace treaty six years ago, a year before had to deal with an life attempt against her person by the hardliners of the Yuktobanian Government under the guise of a radical group there supported by the infamous Bolganio Club. But, it was something she wouldn't want to say today, even if she came out alive and well from that long forgotten incident; she had moved on long ago. Now her focus lied in the approachment to the Sultanate as their interests alligned in the long term picture; even their tactics were similar, the use of soft power always a good way to gain the hearts and minds abroad rather than the use of the hard power, for them The Queen, their sovereign; played gladly in her part of this strategy planned by the three of them, the Chancellor, the Prime Minister and Her Majesty.
Certainly negogiations will play out interestingly.

Athena Freezis
She was certainly glad of it, having found someone to talk and that if get to know her better could consider a friend; of course Athena made sure the Priestess had her e-mail, her personal more exactly as she had three to manage, the rest regarding corporate affairs completely. She can certainly pray and hope that what she has with Leo is permanent and of that, she's sure that it is; her excitement of having her feelings answered was one which she loved and knew they could be together for their lives.
Of course, perhaps the romance could wait as she had pressing issues to attend to and those were all related to set a foot here, grab a piece of the cake in the Kyrenaian Market and in their sphere of influence; step by step, as that will be an interesting process for sure; but one that will give results.

Callista IV of Mervay
After everyone was assembled, they were led by the Princess to the escalator that would take them to their next transport of the journey in a quick travel down and past the security checkpoint, they were in the terminal station that connected the airport to the city if using the public transport. The Queen was amazed by how this station could be in such massive cavern, clearly this airport was completely interesting, she eyed at the entire station before moving her eyes to the platform where their vehicle would be waiting for them; they certainly prepared it well for the day.
Before she could make any comments in the station however, Aurelia handed them over their tickets for them to present to the inspector; tickets that were decorated especially for the visit; one for her chest of memories then. They would be a way to remember the visit and hopefully, the first of many memories here; plus it reminded her of those tickets that were always prepared for state visits back in the last century, that and the fact back at home tickets are becoming a relic of the past as the tech corporations develop new smart ways to replace them and the ticket barriers in a few years. They will be only seen in airplanes if so.

Callista accepted the tickets with a amused, but kind glare as she handed over the tickets to the delegation members, the service personnel would travel with their baggage, that included Her Majesty's maids too, everyone would rather evade that it happens one of the cliche in movies in airports, lost luggage.

They all nodded at the gesture and presented their tickets to the inspector; normal procedure like back at home when taking the train. Of course as soon as they got in they noticed other guests, more exactly officers that would escort them through the travel to the station; it made Callista consider that she could had called her maids for support just in case, but; considering the amount of people here, better not.

Now they can finally get to the station.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
The inspector punched the tickets with a little device, then wished a nice trip, before he let the ticket holder proceed aboard.
Aboard, aside from the police officers in the discreet background, were three other people, who rose from their comfortable seats: Prince Okan ibn-Dardan, dressed in an impeccable suit and tie, his red eyes glinting as he bowed, leaning onto his cane, was accompanied by his Personal Handmaiden, Alya Mumrada, who wore the Breath of Nothing like Sarina did, only that her dress was enwrought with deep red thread, showing, that she belonged to the Palace of the Ruby Hall in Megido.
The third person was another acquaintance of mine, dressed in full lamellar armor, with greaves, vambraces, the whole nine yard, a helmet under his arm and a sabre on his side. The spike on top of the kettle helmet was golden, signifying, that the young man was a Captain of some kind. His name was Damir Afata, he was a student of the Tabar Boys' Academy and Captain of its Horseman Team and he would command the Escort for the Visitors of State today.
Okan was the first to speak: "Queen Callista, peace be upon You and a fresh breeze be upon Mervay. Welcome to You and Your travelling companions.", he spoke and rose again. "I am Okan ibn-Dardan, this young man..." He motioned to Afata. "...is Mister Damir Afata, Captain of the Horseman Team of the Tabar Boys' Academy and commander of the escort to the Palace once we reach Utica Central."
"It is a great honour, Your Majesty - Ladies, Gentlemen.", he added with his accent and rose himself. His gaze was, for but a moment, on me. I knew, that he was a good friend of Atif and that he was not happy to see his friend hurting. He then looked again at Callista, a bit of charme on his lips, as he said: "If I may, Your Majesty, the photographs do not do You justice. You are more beautiful in person."
Okan smiled. "Please, have seats, everyone!", he said, "To my understanding, we will be underway in but a moment."

[Mervay]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
The inspector punched the tickets with a little device, then wished a nice trip, before he let the ticket holder proceed aboard.
Aboard, aside from the police officers in the discreet background, were three other people, who rose from their comfortable seats: Prince Okan ibn-Dardan, dressed in an impeccable suit and tie, his red eyes glinting as he bowed, leaning onto his cane, was accompanied by his Personal Handmaiden, Alya Mumrada, who wore the Breath of Nothing like Sarina did, only that her dress was enwrought with deep red thread, showing, that she belonged to the Palace of the Ruby Hall in Megido.
The third person was another acquaintance of mine, dressed in full lamellar armor, with greaves, vambraces, the whole nine yard, a helmet under his arm and a sabre on his side. The spike on top of the kettle helmet was golden, signifying, that the young man was a Captain of some kind. His name was Damir Afata, he was a student of the Tabar Boys' Academy and Captain of its Horseman Team and he would command the Escort for the Visitors of State today.
Okan was the first to speak: "Queen Callista, peace be upon You and a fresh breeze be upon Mervay. Welcome to You and Your travelling companions.", he spoke and rose again. "I am Okan ibn-Dardan, this young man..." He motioned to Afata. "...is Mister Damir Afata, Captain of the Horseman Team of the Tabar Boys' Academy and commander of the escort to the Palace once we reach Utica Central."
"It is a great honour, Your Majesty - Ladies, Gentlemen.", he added with his accent and rose himself. His gaze was, for but a moment, on me. I knew, that he was a good friend of Atif and that he was not happy to see his friend hurting. He then looked again at Callista, a bit of charme on his lips, as he said: "If I may, Your Majesty, the photographs do not do You justice. You are more beautiful in person."
Okan smiled. "Please, have seats, everyone!", he said, "To my understanding, we will be underway in but a moment."

Callista IV of Mervay
It was certainly an interesting surprise to see three more people hid in a discreet way, even more when one of them was Prince Okan himself in front of her and the delegation; besides him, his handmaiden. It was certainly an interesting surprise for now, made even more surprising by the fact a person dressed in armor was alongside them; she should be used to that considering she had saw people dressed in armor many times on her life ceremonially, but guess it always continued to.
She then heard them introduce themselves to them; the one interested in and finding answering why the armor was finally solved; he was the captain of the Horseman Team of the Tabar Academy and the commander of their escort as soon as they leave the train in the central station. The Queen smiled sheepishly at the comment of the captain as her cheeks became a slight pink thanks to such mention before giving a curtsy not only to him but to the Prince and his handmaiden as well, something followed by the rest of the delegation as they bowed respectfully as well.

"Likewise, Your Highness; May wealth and peace fall upon the Sultanate as well." She smiled warmly at him before shifting her eyes to Captain Afata.

"In the name of the rest of the members of this delegation, I hope you will do your task with excellence and perfect efectiveness, Captain Afata." She kept her smile before letting an small teasing out, a bit of a payback for the charm of before. "I've must say you are also pretty, and with that charm, I'm sure you have quite the number of admirers." Then she let out an small giggle off her lips before doing as instructed. Callista's mind was divided in where to seat, in one hand, she wanted to continue her conversation with Aurelia as she had fun; in the other hand, she could seat with either of the two new present members and talk with them, she was interested in knowing the Prince better but also the young captain escorting her. In the end however, she decided to try and see why the Prince was present.

Seating close to him while keeping her distance, meanwhile the Chancellor and Mr. Dileva sat together and so did the Treasurer was sat besides Lady Athena, an odd pair considering their personalities and how one seemed more outgoing while the other reserved; thank god they both had a couple or it could be taken wrong, which speaking of; she should ask Mr. Vanderbilt how his relationship with Lady Von Eyl was going. But that didn't mattered as right now their train was to set off.

[Kyrenaia]

Callista IV of Mervay
It was certainly an interesting surprise to see three more people hid in a discreet way, even more when one of them was Prince Okan himself in front of her and the delegation; besides him, his handmaiden. It was certainly an interesting surprise for now, made even more surprising by the fact a person dressed in armor was alongside them; she should be used to that considering she had saw people dressed in armor many times on her life ceremonially, but guess it always continued to.
She then heard them introduce themselves to them; the one interested in and finding answering why the armor was finally solved; he was the captain of the Horseman Team of the Tabar Academy and the commander of their escort as soon as they leave the train in the central station. The Queen smiled sheepishly at the comment of the captain as her cheeks became a slight pink thanks to such mention before giving a curtsy not only to him but to the Prince and his handmaiden as well, something followed by the rest of the delegation as they bowed respectfully as well.

"Likewise, Your Highness; May wealth and peace fall upon the Sultanate as well." She smiled warmly at him before shifting her eyes to Captain Afata.

"In the name of the rest of the members of this delegation, I hope you will do your task with excellence and perfect efectiveness, Captain Afata." She kept her smile before letting an small teasing out, a bit of a payback for the charm of before. "I've must say you are also pretty, and with that charm, I'm sure you have quite the number of admirers." Then she let out an small giggle off her lips before doing as instructed. Callista's mind was divided in where to seat, in one hand, she wanted to continue her conversation with Aurelia as she had fun; in the other hand, she could seat with either of the two new present members and talk with them, she was interested in knowing the Prince better but also the young captain escorting her. In the end however, she decided to try and see why the Prince was present.

Seating close to him while keeping her distance, meanwhile the Chancellor and Mr. Dileva sat together and so did the Treasurer was sat besides Lady Athena, an odd pair considering their personalities and how one seemed more outgoing while the other reserved; thank god they both had a couple or it could be taken wrong, which speaking of; she should ask Mr. Vanderbilt how his relationship with Lady Von Eyl was going. But that didn't mattered as right now their train was to set off.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Afata bowed his head lightly at the charme directed into his direction, smiling slightly. I knew, that calling his number of female admirers 'quite the number' was technically correct - the thing was, that as the Captain of the TBA Horseman Team, he had a lot of admirers, his good looks and charme being the icing on the proverbial cake.
We took our seats, Callista near to Okan, myself on his far side, opposite to us Mister and Mistress Dileva, then Vanderbilt and Freezis. Afata remained standing, holding to a pole. From experience, I knew, that sitting in full lamellar was quite uncomfortable. Okan's Handmaiden sat on my far side, my own opted to stand near Damir, who didn't seem to be too displeased by the development.
Just as we were seated, a jingle sounded, then warning, both in Kyrenaian and then English, that the train was about to depart, so everyone should stand away from the entrances and move away from the train. Then three beeps sounded, then the doors closed and the train departed.
I smiled - so far, everything was going well.

[Mervay]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Afata bowed his head lightly at the charme directed into his direction, smiling slightly. I knew, that calling his number of female admirers 'quite the number' was technically correct - the thing was, that as the Captain of the TBA Horseman Team, he had a lot of admirers, his good looks and charme being the icing on the proverbial cake.
We took our seats, Callista near to Okan, myself on his far side, opposite to us Mister and Mistress Dileva, then Vanderbilt and Freezis. Afata remained standing, holding to a pole. From experience, I knew, that sitting in full lamellar was quite uncomfortable. Okan's Handmaiden sat on my far side, my own opted to stand near Damir, who didn't seem to be too displeased by the development.
Just as we were seated, a jingle sounded, then warning, both in Kyrenaian and then English, that the train was about to depart, so everyone should stand away from the entrances and move away from the train. Then three beeps sounded, then the doors closed and the train departed.
I smiled - so far, everything was going well.

After a few minutes of wait, their train was finally on the move to the central station and sooner or later they would be on their final destination; The Palace of the Azure Hall. Of course it was their final destination for the day since tomorrow they would find themselves on with their respective meetings and schedules, but then again this was work and even if Her Majesty will have an calm one compared to the rest, she was, the public face of the nation and as such she had alongside her leisure time (if it even could be called that?) to be the one to leave an good impression of the nation.
It has been so far a nice start and considering that she has been for most the time, in a way, herself, it did certainly help a lot.

Her Majesty kept looking at her surrundings, letting an sigh and considering that an conversation would be possible depending on how long would they take get to their destination decided to ask...

"If I may ask, how long is the travel from the airport to the central station?" Until she was stolen the question by the green haired man in the suit. Treasurer Vanderbilt was certainly curious as to how long it would take considering that it was common knowledge to those abroad from the delegation that the airport was completely at the outskirts of the city. Don't get it wrong, she loved a good travel and in fact wherever she goes back at home she was always of using the Royal Train, well excepting when she had to get to the islands of the Mondellier Sea, even if by it's size it can be kinda described as an ocean for some. She knew the rest had their methods to travel; the treasurer was like her, more of trains when traveling inside the nation; the chancellor and her husband were more of using their private jet; while Lady Freezis was more of traveling by car if not in a hurry. Perhaps she got off the main topic with her thoughts, but it didn't hurt to think of them once in a while.

[Kyrenaia]

After a few minutes of wait, their train was finally on the move to the central station and sooner or later they would be on their final destination; The Palace of the Azure Hall. Of course it was their final destination for the day since tomorrow they would find themselves on with their respective meetings and schedules, but then again this was work and even if Her Majesty will have an calm one compared to the rest, she was, the public face of the nation and as such she had alongside her leisure time (if it even could be called that?) to be the one to leave an good impression of the nation.
It has been so far a nice start and considering that she has been for most the time, in a way, herself, it did certainly help a lot.

Her Majesty kept looking at her surrundings, letting an sigh and considering that an conversation would be possible depending on how long would they take get to their destination decided to ask...

"If I may ask, how long is the travel from the airport to the central station?" Until she was stolen the question by the green haired man in the suit. Treasurer Vanderbilt was certainly curious as to how long it would take considering that it was common knowledge to those abroad from the delegation that the airport was completely at the outskirts of the city. Don't get it wrong, she loved a good travel and in fact wherever she goes back at home she was always of using the Royal Train, well excepting when she had to get to the islands of the Mondellier Sea, even if by it's size it can be kinda described as an ocean for some. She knew the rest had their methods to travel; the treasurer was like her, more of trains when traveling inside the nation; the chancellor and her husband were more of using their private jet; while Lady Freezis was more of traveling by car if not in a hurry. Perhaps she got off the main topic with her thoughts, but it didn't hurt to think of them once in a while.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
"The tram will take twenty minutes until it reaches Utica Main Railway Station.", I replied to the question. "We will not stop, though, so the trip is shorter then the normal commute."
We picked up speed and went into the tunnel, underneath the earth and into, ironically, a very cool environment - but as the train had a full set of climate control, we had cozy twenty degrees celsius.
"We will pass a total of six stations until we reach the Main Station.", Okan continued, smiling, "Though there won't be people lining the stations, as those are closed for this morning. By the evening rush hour, they will be open again. Among us, that is very much needed."
"Be happy, that we aren't driving in by car.", I added with a forlorn grin, "Inner Utica is a maze of confusing proportions filled with traffic on a good day. Though there are car-free zones, especially in the city center, and public transport has seen an increase in use... until COVID, that is."

[Mervay]

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
"The tram will take twenty minutes until it reaches Utica Main Railway Station.", I replied to the question. "We will not stop, though, so the trip is shorter then the normal commute."
We picked up speed and went into the tunnel, underneath the earth and into, ironically, a very cool environment - but as the train had a full set of climate control, we had cozy twenty degrees celsius.
"We will pass a total of six stations until we reach the Main Station.", Okan continued, smiling, "Though there won't be people lining the stations, as those are closed for this morning. By the evening rush hour, they will be open again. Among us, that is very much needed."
"Be happy, that we aren't driving in by car.", I added with a forlorn grin, "Inner Utica is a maze of confusing proportions filled with traffic on a good day. Though there are car-free zones, especially in the city center, and public transport has seen an increase in use... until COVID, that is."

One should ask themselves how is traffic on a good day around here, because if it is like what they're thinking; oh dear, then. Yeah, they are really lucky.
Her Majesty thought of the fact they were just twenty minutes away and considering the fact it was an busy route, yeah they would had waited a while longer on an normal day or if they came, say incognito? Not that she minded since it would be nice either way.

"Well, let's hope we don't find ourselves being witnesses of Utica's traffic then." Athena said sighing before glaring at her surroundings to then close her eyes in a thoughtful state. Treasurer Vanderbilt meanwhile; he begun to take out an journal, it didn't contained anything confidential since all government personnel was ordered to revise their respective data brought as soon as they are in the privacy of their quarters; what the diary did contain, were an series of sketchs he drew, before he knew it, an violet eyed woman was looking at him passing his time after interrupting her thoughts as she heard the sounds of a pencil.

"I'm surprised you do draw, Treasurer." Athena asked as she looked interested on the drawings, they were very good if she had to say, of great quality. The Treasurer took notice of her interest and eyed at the violet eyed woman, a glimpse of curiosity filling the eyes of the always strict person.

"Do you draw as well, Marquise Freezis??" Lorentz asked with his tone always kept on his serious style even if his eyes showed the opposite; while the businesswoman nodded in reply, while not shown by her face mask, she had an smile on her face while the green haired man just looked back at his diary with a thoughtful look.

"I see. I shouldn't be surprised then." He then returned to his drawing while the Marquise de Silvat decided to not prey any further; but she wouldn't be surprised if she saw an portrait the opposition leader there.

As for the married couple, their interest was more focused on their small talk; it was more or less everything regarding their married life and other trivial matters, a way to let off any tension regarding the moments foward away for a moment. They were mostly focused on themselves for the time being while Lady Agustinas decided to have her own questions.

"If I may ask, Your Highness." She turned to Prince Okan with an curious frown on her face. "What has made you be present here, and if could include in my question; why weren't you up with Princess Aurelia to recive us??" That was if her thoughts were correct and he was part of the delegation sent to recive them, if she was right of course...

[Kyrenaia]

One should ask themselves how is traffic on a good day around here, because if it is like what they're thinking; oh dear, then. Yeah, they are really lucky.
Her Majesty thought of the fact they were just twenty minutes away and considering the fact it was an busy route, yeah they would had waited a while longer on an normal day or if they came, say incognito? Not that she minded since it would be nice either way.

"Well, let's hope we don't find ourselves being witnesses of Utica's traffic then." Athena said sighing before glaring at her surroundings to then close her eyes in a thoughtful state. Treasurer Vanderbilt meanwhile; he begun to take out an journal, it didn't contained anything confidential since all government personnel was ordered to revise their respective data brought as soon as they are in the privacy of their quarters; what the diary did contain, were an series of sketchs he drew, before he knew it, an violet eyed woman was looking at him passing his time after interrupting her thoughts as she heard the sounds of a pencil.

"I'm surprised you do draw, Treasurer." Athena asked as she looked interested on the drawings, they were very good if she had to say, of great quality. The Treasurer took notice of her interest and eyed at the violet eyed woman, a glimpse of curiosity filling the eyes of the always strict person.

"Do you draw as well, Marquise Freezis??" Lorentz asked with his tone always kept on his serious style even if his eyes showed the opposite; while the businesswoman nodded in reply, while not shown by her face mask, she had an smile on her face while the green haired man just looked back at his diary with a thoughtful look.

"I see. I shouldn't be surprised then." He then returned to his drawing while the Marquise de Silvat decided to not prey any further; but she wouldn't be surprised if she saw an portrait the opposition leader there.

As for the married couple, their interest was more focused on their small talk; it was more or less everything regarding their married life and other trivial matters, a way to let off any tension regarding the moments foward away for a moment. They were mostly focused on themselves for the time being while Lady Agustinas decided to have her own questions.

"If I may ask, Your Highness." She turned to Prince Okan with an curious frown on her face. "What has made you be present here, and if could include in my question; why weren't you up with Princess Aurelia to recive us??" That was if her thoughts were correct and he was part of the delegation sent to recive them, if she was right of course...

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I watched Vanderbilt and Athena, not surprised about his hobby of sketching -it was remarkably similar to how my friend Karim, Prince Karim ibn-Fadi (a.k.a. Karim Risha), loved to spent his time. Granted, he was less of a painter and more of a poet, but he was skilled at what he did.
And while most of his work was focussed on praising one woman, a particularly admirable one, I might add, in his recent work, he had shifted a bit...
Regardless, at Agustinas' question, Okan smiled a small, almost boyish, lopsided smile, which did not seem to fit him as well.
Especially considering his reply.
"Please allow me to ask the second question first, Lady Agustinas.", he requested, then continued: "I was not up with Aurelia, because of my condition. You might know, that I suffer from the Alström Syndrome, which causes a whole lot of problems, among them light sensitivity. That, and I also don't have the diplomatic training the young Softpaw here has... let alone her expertise and mastery."
I smiled and bowed my head at the compliments, smiling under my mask. Compliments from Prince Okan were always something nice. And being called a Softpaw, one of the large felines, was a compliment as well.
"As for why I am here...", Okan added, then smiled in an honest, earnest way: "If Princess Aurelia is a Softpaw, I am a Desert Mouse. A curious little critter, these Desert Mouses. And not only that, they themselves are curious - so much so, that they became the go-to symbol for curiosity."