The Excalbians visit Imperial City (closed)

[Aerion]

Aerion
Imperial City
Imperial Air & Space Port

Unfortunately for the Excalbians flying into Imperial City, it was a dark and stormy day over Imperial City. The storm may have even delayed the landing of the flight. Lightning flashed, thunder boomed, and rain poured over the otherwise gleaming city laid out in concentric rings divided by white walls.

The new gleaming Imperial Air & Space Port was massive with four large international terminals, two large terminals to accommodate other more space-oriented craft, and three domestic terminals though domestic traffic traveled more heavily through the Prince Damoen Wasterin International Airport. The gleaming terminals resembled long large pyramids capped with illuminated caps.

Two VIP terminals were set off to the side with secured fenced in runways, and this is where the visiting Excalbian Princess would arrive.

Upon arrival, the long airbridge shaped and sealed to the Excalbian aircraft with the help of robotics. It was more flexible than some older style airbridges, and fit to her craft. The interior had a red carpet leading all the way to the large terminal corridor. Two white uniformed Imperial Guard and an Imperial Master of Ceremonies would be on hand to greet her inside the airbridge. The Master of Ceremonies was one Count Asdiet Patere dressed in black court uniform in gold braid. He bowed somewhat, "Your Imperial Highness, if you will follow me."

The air bridge connected at the end of the VIP State arrival corridor in the VIP Terminal was crafted for just the one pane carrying the VIP to arrive. Imperial Guard wearing crisp white uniform flanked the exit to the airbridge. The VIP State Arrival Corridor in the VIP Terminal was more akin to a palace corridor. White marble floors gleamed, and elaborate walls leafed in gold with murals of Imperial City and the shape of the Grand Empire of Aerion being blessed by the ancient gods and goddesses of Aerion stood out. Chandeliers glimmered from the ceiling. It was entirely unlike being in an airport. A red carpet was laid out along the corridor.

Standing at the entrance was HIM's Minister for Foreign Affairs Alazaern Valtane wearing his full black court uniform with elaborate braiding. Alazaern was in his mid fourties, and was an very suave charming handsome Eastern Aerionian. He appeared as if he could be a businessman in other settings.

Next to him in an elaborate deep purple court dress which was hooped was HIH Princess Jahanaray Wasterin, Grand Mistress of the Robes and older sister to HIH Prince Faravindad Wasterin. She wore purple by her right as the a member of the Imperial Family. She was in her forties, but still maintained the beauty of her youth with some visible plastic surgery. Her black hair had been dyed with silver streaks, and was up in a bun in the Aerionian style. She had sparkling gold eyeliner over her olive Persian skin in the Aerionian style. Over her dress was a white sash from which hung the badge of the Order of the White Wolf on his right shoulder, and the Grand Cross on her left breast. On the right above the sash she wore a small purple bow the center of which encircled in diamonds was a portrait of the Empress. Standing beside them was another Imperial Guard in what appeared to be more dress uniform, and a man dressed in simple black uniform bearing the Imperial Seal.

Nearby was single photographer from the Imperial Press Office of the Office of the Imperial Privy Secretary taking pictures. He was dressed subtly in a black suit with black tie.

As the Princess would have stepped off the airgate into the VIP State Terminal's Arrival Corridor, the Master of Ceremonies would have announced, "Her Imperial Highness, Princess Christiana of Excalbia."

[Excalbia]

The Imperial City, Aerion

The blue and gold 787 airliner taxied towards the VIP terminal. Rain streaked across the legend reading Excalbian Imperial Air Force in large, bold letters on the side of the plane. Some of the princess’ traveling party stared out the window, admiring the elaborate new airport, while the princess herself used the time to review a few last minute financial transactions on her tablet computer. When the plane finally came to a full stop and the airbridge had been secured, the party gathered and prepared to deplane.

The white uniformed Aerionian Imperial Guards were met by two blue uniformed Excalbian Imperial Guards in plumed golden helmets. The Guards stepped through the open door first and took their positions flanking the door.

Princess Christiana followed the guards through the door. Although she was in her late forties, the princess remained an attractive, trim but curvaceous woman. Like most pure-blooded highlanders, she was tall and very blond. She wore a deep crimson knee-length skirt with a slight slit on either side and a matching jacket with a fine pinstriped pattern over a light cream blouse. Her fashionable crimson heels added a couple of in her height. More than anything, she looked like a successful and stylish business executive, which she was after a fashion, with the exception of her jewels. Around her neck she wore a diamond and sapphire necklace and atop her long blond hair she wore a matching tiara, both pieces part of the Imperial Jewels. Normally, the princess would not travel with such ostentatious pieces; however being told that Aerion was fond of displays of royal pomp, she elected to add them for a bit of the theatric.

Christiana was followed by a woman in her fifties dressed in a blue patterned skirted and navy jacket of a somewhat more conservative cut. Baroness Cassandra Tavate, the Holy Empire’s Ambassador to the Aerionian Court, had traveled to Citadel Excalbia solely to accompany the princess back to Aerion and brief her on the way. Beside the Baroness was another woman, shorter and slighter than the princess, with light brown hair and glasses. Janet Latsone was the princess’ long-time Chief of Staff and constant companion. Behind the two women was Sir Justin Grayson, a dapper older gentleman in a navy blue suit and bright yellow tie, who happened to be one of the Ministry of State’s senior diplomats. Rounding out the party was an olive-skinned teenage boy, with dark hair and deep, soulful brown eyes. The boy, Lord Tariq of Mezciems, was the princess’ adopted son and a native of Pantocratoria’s Despotate of New Constantinople.

The princess nodded slightly to count in the black uniform. “Of course,” she said pleasantly as she followed the man into the terminal. The rest of the party, trailed by the two Imperial Guards dressed in dark suits and sunglasses, accompanied the princess into the terminal.

Arriving in the terminal proper, the princess and her party looked around. The surroundings were impressive. The princess thought to herself that they were even more opulent what she had found in Pantocratoria, which until now had been her benchmark for royal ostentation.

Recognizing the Foreign Minister and Princess Jahanaray as much by their dress as by her in-flight briefing, Princess Christiana bowed her head slightly. The rest of her party bowed deeply at the waist. “Your Imperial Highness, Your Excellency,” she said in a pleasant, almost sing-song voice, “it is a pleasure to be here in Aerion.”

[Aerion]

Princess Jahanaray Wasterin had appraised the foreign Princess with a somewhat arrogant look as she walked toward her, almost raising her eyebrow. The Minister for Foreign Affairs glanced at Princess Jahanary nervously, perhaps more reacting to the look on the woman's face she gave Christiania upon their approaching on the airbridge. He then turned his focus toward the approaching delegation.

The Imperial Guards flanking the exit to the airbridge were wearing long white cloaks over their white uniforms, and white plumes from elaborate polished silver helmets.

Princess Jahanaray Wasterin quickly switched body language, and gears though. She was dripping with honey though perhaps overdoing it. She spoke in accented English, "Your Highness. Ambassador." She nodded to the men behind them. Marquis Alazaern Valtane, Minister for Foreign Affairs spoke in a bit more perfect less accented English, "Your Imperial Highness, Ambassador." He then nodded to the behind them.

The Princess then spoke, "I trust your flight from the Holy Empire was well? The weather we are having today is unusually dreadful." She then gestured to the man in the white uniform, "Here with us is Captain Sir Vaneroaz Asdket of the Imperial Guard, he leads your Imperial Guard detail assigned to you." The man bowed. She then gestured to the man in black uniform, "This is Sir Nathanael Varadain with the Office of Imperial Security. He will serve as the security liaison with your security detail, and accompany you. Of course all of the other details were worked out with your staff."


Nearby was single photographer from the Imperial Press Office of the Office of the Imperial Privy Secretary taking pictures. She was dressed subtly in a smart female's executive jacket and skirt.

[Excalbia]

If Princess Christiana noticed Princess Jahanaray’s condescending look, she gave no outward sign of it. As the Aerionian princess spoke, Christiana nodded politely and turned slightly to offer the photographer a better picture of the two women greeting each other. She smiled pleasantly, offering the same charming expression that had graced many a tabloid.

“Thank you for your most gracious welcome, Your Imperial Highness,” the princess said with another slight bow of the head. “Yes, our flight went very smoothly. Despite the weather, it was as smooth as silk. Certainly a promising sign for my visit.” As the security men were introduced, Princess Christiana offered each a smile and the barest of nods. “Yes, thank you for taking care of all the arrangements.”

The princess turned slightly, still keeping her face to the camera, and gestured to the women behind her. “I believe you already know the Baroness of Tavate, our Ambassador to the Imperial Court,” the Baroness bowed slightly. “And this is Ms. Janet Latsone, my chief of staff and alter ego,” the princess almost seemed to wink without actually quite doing so as the other woman bowed somewhat more deeply than the Ambassador. “Sir Justin Grayson,” the tall, silver-haired diplomat bowed deeply, “is one of our senior envoys-at-large and is here representing Her Excellency, Lady Christina Freedman, our Minister of State. And, last, but certainly not least,” the princess beamed, “my son, Lord Tariq.” The teenager smiled and bowed. Despite his youth, he projected an air of sophistication and his smile was charming.

“You Imperial Highness,” the young said, “it is indeed an honor to accompany my mother on such an important visit.”

Turning back to Princess Jahanaray and the Foreign Minister, Princess Christiana gave a small wave of her arm. “So, shall we begin? I’m quite anxious to see the city that we’ve heard so much about.”

[Aerion]

Princess Jahanaray cleared her throat, "This is not quiet a good time with the storms to see the city. Let us take you and your party to your quarters in the Imperial Palace first. That alone is the grandest structure in Imperial City." She smiled politely, "Minister?." The Minister for Foreign Affairs nodded, "Yes, of course. Her Imperial Highness is quiet correct. We have a wonderful train that will take us there for a short time. If you will follow us?." He gestured down the corridor to the atrium.

In the atrium was Princess Jahanary's own personal lady-in-waiting as she was an Imperial Princess, Baroness Leshilda
Addryoal. The Baroness was in her twenties. She also wore a red court dress though with a smaller hoop. Two more Imperial Guard in fine white uniforms waited in the atrium. Two Imperial Guards flanking the large golden elevator doors were dressed in the long long ceremonial floor length white cloaks and silver helmets with white plume crests over their white uniform that the ones flanking the air bridge wore. Five other Imperial Guards waited in pressed white uniform, but without the cloaks.

Seven Imperial Footmen wearing dressed up though not full ceremonial wore purple waistcoasts embroidered in gold with wolves, white knee breeches, and long darker purple coats over it all also stood in the atrium as well. Five would proceed behind the entourage as they arrived in the atrium to assist the Princess's staff in carrying luggage or other items if necessary.

After Princess Christiana and the rest of the delegation filled into the atrium, the elevators all opened at once. The middle elevator with golden doors was most luxuriously appointed for the key personages. Within was an elevator attendant dressed in a suit. The walls were of a dark wood, with gold ceiling. A long plush velvet burgundy bench lined one wall of the elevator. It was large enough to hold the delegation, Princess Jahanaray with her lady-in-waiting, the Excalbian guards, the Minister, Captain Sir Vaneroaz Asdket of the Imperial Guard, and Sir Nathanael Varadain of Imperial Security.

The elevator would go down several floors, and open into a blast of air. The elevators came out at the center of a train platform. It was an elegant small underground train station platform connecting with a maglev train, and a people mover on two separate tracks. The platform, walls, and vaulted arched ceiling were white marble. More simple chandeliers hung from the ceiling of the station. A rim of lights illuminated the ceiling. An elegant five car shiny silver MagLev train that appeared sleek and modern but traditional with Art Deco elements sat on the right side. The people movers on the left almost appeared to be like silver carriages in a way with elegant lights on all four sides, pods that moved through the airport. The train had the Imperial Seal emblazoned on the side, and an shiny Art Deco style masthead of an feminine figure on the front of the MagLev train. White uniformed Imperial Guard were also present on the platform.

The doors were opened. Princesss Jahanaray and the Minister would allow Princess Christiania with her delegation on the car first through the sliding doors.

Since it was for city transport, the train was not exceptionally large inside yet the design made it seem larger than it was. Plush individual Art Deco styled rounded seats sat across from each other with plush velvet burgundy cushion on the back and seat emblazoned with the Imperial Seal. Elegant Art Deco style golden light sconces being held by feminine figures lined the walls. Flat almost paper thin digital screens showed on a map where the train was despite being underground, speed, and outside weather. Others were on ANN news. There was a full bar in one car of the MagLev train with a bartender there.

The rear car would be solely for luggage, and with plain seats for regular staff though another less plush though still Art Deco designed silver MagLev train waited behind to pick up the staff and other objects right after the Imperial City Train left the station.

Four Art Deco rounded sofas similarly with plush burgundy seating sat across from one another in the car the Princess, Minister, and Princess as well as her delegation would have been ushered into. Recessed lighting along the walls added to the effect. Within conventional portrait frames there was digital sliding artwork on the walls of Imperial City showing various buildings in portraits.

Headed into the main car was the Princess with her lady-in-waiting, the Minister, the Imperial Guard Captain, the ISS agent, two Imperial Guard and presumably Princess Christiania and the delegation. Others could file into the other cars of the Imperial train or into the second MagLev train behind.

[Excalbia]

Princess Christiana raised a single eyebrow. “Indeed. Then, I suppose we should postpone the grand tour and head on to the Palace.” She smiled and nodded to Princess Jahanaray. Turning to the Foreign Minister she said sweetly, “Of course, Your Excellency; please lead on.”

As the Princess led the Excalbian delegation into the atrium behind Princess Jahanaray and the Foreign Minister, Tariq took particular note of Baroness Leshilda and made a point to smile and nod as they passed. Though he was only 17, the dashing young dark-haired royal-by-adoption clearly possessed self-confidence beyond his years. Dressed in an expensive suit of the latest fashion, he also looked a fewer years older.

Once inside the elevators, Janet Latsone leaned close to Princess Christiana and whispered something in her ear. The Princess nodded and smiled. She turned to Princess Jahanaray and said, “Ms. Latsone was remarking that the opulence of the surroundings reminded her of the Despotic Palace in New Constantinople.” The Princess’ smile took on a nostalgic tint and she continued. “I have some rather fond memories of the Despotic Palace, but if this is merely the airport terminal, I suspect that the Imperial Palace will eclipse anything in New Constantinople by a fairly good measure.”

Arriving on the train platform, the Princess nodded at the graciousness of the Minister and Princess Jahanaray and stepped into the first compartment. Lord Tariq, Janet Latsone, Baroness Cassandra, Sir Justin and the two plainclothes Imperial Guards followed close behind. Additional plainclothes Imperial Guards and a small number of other staff accompanied the baggage and took their places in the other cars.

Taking a seat on one of the burgundy sofas, Princess Christina crossed her legs at the ankles and folded her hands in her lap. “I have to say,” she commented to Princess Jahanaray, “I appreciate the décor. So much of the Citadel is dripping with Art Nouveau, but I’ve always preferred the cleaner lines of Art Deco. So, how long will it take us to reach the Palace? And, perhaps you wouldn’t mind, Your Imperial Highness, using the time to tell me a bit of what you think I, as a first time visitor to your country, should know about the Grand Empire and the… rather large number of significant developments in the last year or two.”

[Aerion]

Princess Jahanaray took her seat elegantly in one of the burgundy seats across from Princess Christiana, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs sat beside her. She crossed her hands elegantly in her lap, and smiled with that fake warmth.

Princess Jahanaray responded, "Thank you, we have our own unique architectural style of Art Deco. Most of Imperial City is built with modernist, Baroque, Art Deco, or Neoclassical styles of architecture. Baroque is especially used on the interiors. The outer districts of course are mostly modern."

She then responded to the other questions, "We should arrive in approximately fifteen minutes at leisurely speed at the Imperial Palace. We could arrive in less than eight minutes at full speed, but we will slow down as we enter the Garden District."

She then spoke a bit more seriously at the final question, "Yes, it has been a struggle for the past two years but Her Imperial Majesty is forging a grand new era for the Grand Empire. The corporate cabal within the megacorporation Amkarethz Holdings assassinated my dearest cousin Crown Prince Regent Damoen Wasterin, and then we had to secure our nation from the Red Communist menace. They had plotted to take advantage of the gap of rulership, and so Her Imperial Majesty secured our nation well. Her Imperial Majesty is determined to build a strong powerful society that will endure the ages, the Grand Empire will endure for a thousand years as Her Imperial Majesty lays the foundation. The citizens of the Grand Empire have never been happier. Her Imperial Majesty has granted them universal healthcare, universal education, and universal pride that my cousin the Crown Prince Regent Damoen Wasterin was too weak in spirit to grant." She smiled.

[Excalbia]

Princess Christiana smiled serenely at Princess Jahanaray. Her eyes sparkled with natural charisma her tanned, flawless skin seemed to radiate a warm glow. Her sincerity, however, was a difficult thing for any except those closest to her to gage.

“The city sounds intriguing,” the Princess said pleasantly. “I can barely wait for the weather to clear so that I can see it for myself.”

The Excalbian delegation was clearly paying close attention when Princess Jahanaray began speaking of the tribulations of the last two years. Princess Christiana, in particular, adopted a sympathetic, almost concerned expression, which melted into relief as the Aerionian came to end of her narration. “I am most pleased, Your Imperial Highness, to hear that Her Imperial Majesty has been able to accomplish so much to secure the Grand Empire’s future and take care of her people.”

The Princess paused for a moment, as if considering some stray thought. Then, leaning forward slightly, she spoke again, in an almost hushed tone. “I do hope, however, that Imperial Majesty is not laying too great a burden on her own shoulders, but is allowing the new institutions that she has established to take up some of that load. Unfortunately, even though my brother, the Emperor, carries a far lesser constitutional burden than Pādshah Empress, we found to our regret that when too much of the burden of governance is placed upon the shoulders of one individual, it can be quite difficult to manage a crisis where that person is incapacitated. When my brother suffered a heart attack and fell into a coma, with no established procedures at the time to temporarily transfer his authority to a regent, we faced… quite a dilemma. One that we have since corrected, of course. However, I should not wish to see the Grand Empire suffer through similar trials.”

[Aerion]

Princess Jahanaray, "Yes the People love her." She smiled, but that smile turned into a more serious look once the "advice" from Princess Christiana was said. There was a long, awkward pause. The Foreign Minister was glancing toward the Princess, somewhat pale faced. Princess Jahanaray finally responded after a moment, "Of course Her Imperial Majesty has the assistance of hundreds of officials to help her in her task, the Imperial Advisors, Archchancellor & her Ministers do well in service to her. As for succession plans, those are not appropriate to discuss with foreigners." She simply smiled somewhat coldly.

The maglev train had sped at a very quick rate through the tunnel, and in a few minutes had slowed down rather rapidly to exit into what appeared to be green fields beyond a white gleaming wall. It was storming still, and rain was pouring on the windows of the maglev train. The train was passing through a rather beautiful woods where deer could be seen near the elevated track through the falling rain. Ahead was a large golden plated nearly Asian-style roof glassed in pavilion like structure with elaborate patio surrounding it, and it was connected to a platform beside the tracks by an elaborate bridge in similar style.

Princess Jahanaray smiled as if relieved of the change of subject. "Ahh, we are now in the Garden District. That is the station for the evening and weekend Imperial Retreat where Her Imperial Majesty sometimes rests for short retreats from the bustle of the Imperial Palace. We are two miles from the nearest residences, and one sometimes forgets except for the overhead lights against the night sky that they are in the capital. There is also a no-fly zone over this area. Her Imperial Majesty upon request may allow a visit if so requested."


The train passed through the woods over two bridges of creeks, and curved around a lake with the woods at an edge then through pristine green fields and gardens. Eventually it passed a few rather large Baroque style chateaus and mansions. The track curved slightly giving a glimpse of white gleaming walls beyond which could be seen the pyramid megastructure , the massive gleaming glass, steel, and concrete Imperial Palace rising almost into the clouds two miles into the sky. The low storm clouds obscured the top of it, and the mass was only seen piercing the clouds.

[Excalbia]

“Of course,” Princess Christiana nodded. “I understand; such details are matters of internal policy.” She sensed that she had struck a nerve and was pleased with herself, although she tried not to show it. “I only meant to express the hope that the Grand Empire will never have to face some of the … strife that has surrounded past successions and incapacities in the Holy Empire.”

The Princess watched the beauty of the garden district roll by, despite the continued heavy rain. “Yes, this is lovely.” She turned slightly back towards Princess Jahanaray. “This reminds, in purpose if not in detail, of the Imperial Preserve Island. If you or any of the Imperial family should ever visit Excalbia, we should be sure to have you visit the Island. It is a small island, just a kilometer or so from the Citadel Island, the main part of our capital, but it is pristine; few autos, no road connections to the Citadel or either river bank. It houses the Summer Palace, a large woods, riding trails…” Her voice drifted off as she seemed to smile at old, fond memories. Shaking her head slightly, as if to force a return to the present, she said, “I would welcome an opportunity to visit the Imperial Retreat, Your Imperial Highness. It is lovely. I’m sure that Her Imperial Majesty must be very fond of the Retreat.”

Sitting beside Princess Christiana, Janet Latsone gave a small gasp as the towering Imperial Palace came into view. “Incredible,” she murmured. “The tallest thing I’ve ever seen…”

Christiana leaned forward to get a better of view of the palace through the window. Lord Tariq, who had been trying desperately to flirt with Princess Leshilda, excused himself and walked over to the window for a better view.

“Most impressive,” Princess Christiana said after a moment. She looked back at Sir Justin Grayson, knowing that part of his mission was to encourage commercial ties. The diplomat nodded and the princess turned her attention back to Aerionians. “The Palace and so many of your other structures are engineering marvels. Some of our industrialists, I must admit, are quite anxious to explore the possibility of marrying your engineering feats to some of our advanced building technologies, such as that foamed metal we use on our ships and planes.” She indicated Sir Justin with her right hand. “Sir Justin has a special charge from my government to explore such commercial possibilities. Hopefully, we can arrange an opportunity for him to speak with the right people about such things.”

The Princess let her gaze drift between Princess Jahanaray and the Foreign Minister. “Of course,” she said, nearly purring, “my special charge is to see to an improvement in relations generally between the Holy Empire and the Grand Empire. We have for too long focused on only certain nations in the region at the expense of others. This is an error we are hoping to correct.” She shook her head slightly. “Of course, several members of our Imperial Senate are still anxious to visit in their capacity as the Human Rights Commission; Knootoss’ statements critical of the Grand Empire still hold currency with some; but we’re sure that an unbiased visit by a few of our Senators would put that to rest.”

[Aerion]

Princess Jahanaray stated, "It is our hope, and prayer to the goddess Abeshala also." She simply smiled at that, and changed the course of the conversation with the Excalbian Princess.

She listened politely as the Princess drifted off into her memories, "It sounds lovely. I would enjoy a visit there. Her Imperial Majesty retreats there at times. There are beautiful gardens, a spring, and a grove hidden among the trees."

She smiled at the impression the Imperial Palace gave, "The Palace is incredible. Robotics were used extensively, but so were over 100,000 workers working round the clock on shifts." She nodded toward Sir Justin, "I'm sure that the Minister here can introduce you to the Minister for Commerce & Industry as well as various industrialists." The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alazaern Valtane nodded adjusting a button on his court uniform. "Of course, we have much to talk of."

The train now sped along after passing several large estates, and what appeared to be a fully newly built elegant small village. It was speeding up once again from a leisurely rate.

Then the Princess took a slightly more serious appearance, perhaps appropriate as they headed toward the dark tunnel which the elevated maglev track passed downward through underneath the massive white gleaming wall which surrounded the Imperial District.

The Princess stated, "Amicable relations would be well with the Holy Empire. However, I cannot discuss politics. It is not my expertise. The statements of the Knootian government were misled with an agenda, I feel. Though I do not know more. That is the Minister's specialty." She nodded toward Alzaern, who also appeared serious though more polite. He then spoke, "Her Imperial Highness is correct, Your Imperial Highness. Personally, I cannot also speak on the visit of your Human Rights Commission being allowed to visit the Grand Empire. It is completely within the will of Her Imperial Majesty, and the Imperial Archchancellor. It would not be appropriate for me to speak further on this topic."

Princess Jahanaray then smiled, "We shall arrive at the Imperial Palace very soon."

The maglev train had taken an Y-split to exit the tunnel to travel elevated along the edges of a massive plaza that was nearly half a mile wide in front of the now clearly visible massive Imperial Palace. The base of the Imperial Palace pyramid megastructure was nearly two miles wide and long. It was massive. The Imperial Avenue as a elevated parkway, and other elevated avenues as well as roadways could be seen literally entering the base of the Imperial Palace at points. Several maglev tracks could be seen entering the base of the Imperial Palace as well, and train tracks. The Imperial Train itself appeared to be entering a round tunnel entrance into the Palace protected by several small gun turrets around the edges.

The tunnel entrance itself was elaborately decorated, and the massive face of an Aerionian White Wolf in gilded gold peered out from the top of the tunnel entrance. The Imperial Train entered the base, and traveled even further through a tunnel in the base of the Imperial Palace passing a whole other elaborate station before stopping at an elaborate station a bit deeper within. The station appeared much the same way as the one at the Imperial State Terminal. Two elevators stood at one side. Imperial Guards stood guard on the platform. The air was a more perfect temperature.

The train doors opened. They were in the belly of the beast. The Imperial Palace.

Princess Jahanaray smiled, "Ahh, here we are. Welcome to the Imperial Palace, the heart of the Grand Empire."

As the Princess stood, everyone waited to stand. As soon as Princess Christiania stood to exit, would the various other individual Aerionians in hierarchical order. Princess Jahanaray would be the first to exit.

[Excalbia]

Sir Justin Grayson nodded with satisfaction as the Foreign Minister affirmed that there was much to discuss. “Indeed, Your Excellency,” the envoy said with a slight sing-song highland accent, “there truly is much to discuss. And I would be delighted to meet the Minister for Commerce and Industry; I believe there is much room for improved commercial relations.” He gave a slight nod of thanks to Princess Christiana; it certainly helped to have a member of the Imperial family introduce the idea of expanding trade between the two nations.

Princess Christiana nodded and smiled sympathetically as Princess Jahanaray recused herself from discussing politics. “I understand, Your Imperial Highness,” she said sweetly. “We all have our roles and our places in the machinery of State. I look forward to raising these points at the appropriate time with Her Imperial Majesty or, if it might be better, with the Imperial Archchancellor; I would certainly not want to presume on Her Imperial Majesty.”

As the train approached the tunnel entrance to the Imperial Palace, Lord Tariq stared in fascination at the turrets and the massive visage of the white wolf. Sir Justin, too, took note of the turrets and arched a single eyebrow. Such an obvious display of heavy arms within the capital was virtually unheard of in the Citadel and the senior diplomat wondered idly whether it indicated that government feared internal unrest more than it admitted.

For their part, Princess Christiana and her Chief of Staff, Janet Latsone, simply sat and waited for the train to arrive. Both looked up almost simultaneously as Princess Jahanaray announced their arrival. “Excellent,” the Princess said. “I don’t know that I’ve ever had such an interesting and delightful trip from the airport.” She stood as the Aerionian princess stood and followed her towards the exit. “Thank you, very much, Your Imperial Highness, for the warm welcome.”

[Aerion]

Princess Jahanaray along with Foreign Minister Alzaern, Baroness Leshilda, and the others stepped out of the maglev train into the station with the others. As the elevator doors flanked by Imperial Guards opened revealed was a large elaborate elevator with velvet burgundy cushioned benches around the edges. The border of the walls were gilded in gold, and the elevator was painted with murals. The elevator itself had a chandelier within. An younger Imperial Page in fine livery stood by the elevator buttons. Princess Jahanaray took her seat on one of the benches, gesturing.

Princess Jahanaray smiled, "Your Imperial Highness, you are invited to stay at the Inner Court of the Imperial Palace just below the Imperial Residence levels of the Imperial Palace. You will not be far from my quarters. Your son may accompany you. This is high near the top of the pyramid. Sir Grayson, and Baroness Tavate may stay in the Outer Court in still very well appointed apartments. There are rooms for your personal guard, and other personal staff nearby as needed."

The elevator would soon begin moving, traveling up dozens of floors fairly quickly though would be so quiet as to be barely perceived they were moving up through the massive structure.

Adjacent elevators would allow staff, and others to travel up as well. Triple elevators seemed a popular style in Imperial structures.

[Excalbia]

Princess Christiana led the Excalbian party out of the train and into the elaborate elevator lobby. After everyone had boarded the appropriate car, the Princess took her seat on one of the velvet cushioned benches beside Princess Jahanaray.

“The accommodations sound perfect, Your Imperial Highness.” She glanced at Janet Latsone and shared a passing look. “If it were possible, I should like my chief of staff to be as close as possible; I rely on her quite a bit. In all other respects, everything sounds delightful. I can’t wait to see the view from the upper levels, despite the weather.” The Princess folded her hands neatly in her lap. “So, when will be moving on with the rest of our schedule? There seems quite so much to do, I must admit that I’m rather anxious to get started and to get everything done.”

Seated near Princess Christiana, Janet Latsone blushed slightly, then pointedly looked around the elevator car, as if taking in every detail. Lord Tariq, meanwhile, was virtually oblivious to his surroundings, as he was far more interested in the older – for him – Baroness Leshilda. The teen showed little anxiety about telegraphing his interest and it was clear that he was used to being found charming and attractive.

Sir Justin Grayson, sitting near Foreign Minister Alzaern, leaned slightly over and spoke softly. “That maglev train was fantastic, Your Excellency. I’m quite sure that it will generate consider interest in our commercial sector. I hope that during our visit we shall be able to discuss the possibilities of a commercial agreement.” He nodded towards the Princess. “I believe that Her Imperial Highness will be proposing a friendship and non-aggression and we would welcome the opportunity to include some trade provisions.”

[Aerion]

Princess Jahanaray nodded, "Your chief of staff can be in the luxury staff appointments connected to your quarters for your upper staff. "
Baroness Leshilda seemed to ignore the interest of Tariq, observing the diplomatic exchanges closely. Foreign Minister Alzaern nodded to Sir Justin Grayson politely, "Yes, excellent idea. Our corporations would be glad to provide such services as constructing these, and sell trains."

They were ushered into the large lift. It was elaborately appointed as with the elevators in the terminal. There were cushioned benches. A page boy in the lift dressed in elaborate livery touched the touchscreen control panel, and the lift began to ascend through the Imperial Palace quickly.

The level indicator indicated moving above 100 levels as the lift sped along, and the doors opened to a level within the Inner Court layer where the Imperial Guest Apartments were. The elaborate baroque atrium revealed was truly impressive. A massive chandelier with thousands of crystals glittered from the domed ceiling with gold leaf plating the entire dome causing a reflective quality. Recessed lighting also lit the dome elegantly. At the center of the atrium was a tiered white marble fountain with an elegant figure at the top holding a vessel from which the stream of water flowed.

Around the edges of the atrium were elegant sofas designed in the Baroque style.

Three sets of double doors departed the atrium. The central one facing the lift had two Imperial Guards wearing white flanking the door. Two Imperial Footmen opened the doors, revealing a wide corridor with elaborate sconces along the walls. The polished marble floors gleaned in the atrium, leading to the plush carpeting in the corridor.

[Excalbia]

Princess Christiana inclined her head respectfully to Princess Jahanaray. “Thank you, Your Imperial Highness; that arrangement will be perfect.”

Sir Justin nodded and smiled at Foreign Minister Alzaern. “Excellent,” he said. “I hope that we can establish mutually profitable trading relations…”

The senior diplomat’s comments were cut short by their arrival and the party’s travel up the tower to the Inner Court. The delegate rode up the elevators in relative silence, although Lord Tariq’s attention was, for the moment, transferred from Baroness Leshilda to the elevator itself. He murmured amazement at the speed and the height as they ascended above the 100th floor.

Arriving in atrium of the Inner Court, the Excalbians were suitably impressed, although a few, such as Janet Latsone, raised an eyebrow at the ornamentation, which was tad excessive by the conservative and relatively modest standards of the Holy Empire.

After making a slow turn around the atrium to take in the whole view, and trading a surreptitious wink in Janet’s direction, Princess Christiana smiled and nodded slightly. “I commend the Grand Empire again on its architectural and engineering skill. A magnificent accomplishment.” She turned and looked towards the guarded doors. “If someone could show us to our accommodations, perhaps I could freshen up and then proceed with our official meetings.” She traded a glance with Sir Justin and continued. “We are quite looking forward to getting down to business as they say.”

[Aerion]

Princess Jahanaray stood with her hands clasped in front of her properly. She nodded, "Of course, Your Imperial Highness. Her Imperial Majesty has invited you to dine with her in the Imperial Grand Apartments. Please be ready by 8:30 dressed in full court dress. The Grand Master of the Household will come to summon you." She gestured toward two Imperial Footmen nearby in the purple livery accompanied by an older chamberlain ordinary wearing a black court uniform with golden braiding, and a golden key on the right breast indicating his status. The gentleman did a half-bow to the Excalbian Princess."

The chamberlain would lead if they followed down the central corridor. The chamberlain would turn to Sir Justin then gesture to a door before the large white wooden double doors at the end of the corridor, "This way sir." Through one door was a sitting room flanked by a study, and then a large luxuriously appointed bedroom in the Baroque style.

Two Imperial Footmen standing on each side of the door opened the double doors for the Excalbian Princess. A marble floored anteroom led through two more doors which the footmen opened into a large baroque sitting room with a chandelier hanging from the ceiling. Elegant couches flanked a table, and the plush burgundy carpet under foot. A fireplace was on one side of the room. Through further double doors was a dining room, and through a side door was a small kitchen with a service elevator. A hallway led from the sitting room to two more double doors which led into a large bedroom that would be in the style of an royal bedroom in a palace. Two doors flanked each other leading to smaller bedrooms for staff with their own bathrooms. A massive bed was on one wall with a large canopy over it. There was an plush red velvet daybed on one corner of the room, a large dresser. Baorque curtains flanked tall windows looked out through the clear arched glass in the side of the pyramid structure of the Imperial Palace. Imperial City could be seen stretched out before them. Through a side door was a large bathroom with a massive more modern jacuzzi bathtub between two showers. Further beyond the bathroom was a full square walk-in closet with a seat in the middle.

A woman stood by the bed in the room in a traditional black maid's outfit with white apron, white scarf, and hat.

The chamberlain gestured, stepping over to the gilded nightstand beside the bed. He opened the drawer, and pulled out a thin square completely transparent touchscreen device. He pressed buttons on it gently. The curtains opened then closed. The lights dimmed then illuminated brightly. The temperature was changed. A panel revealed a large digital touchscreen television with various scenes. He handed the remote to the Excalbian princess's assistant. "This remote will change anything for your comfort, and there are touchscreens in the bathroom to control the showers. If you are in need of anything then Larissa here may help you." He nodded to the maid.

The chamberlain ordinary half-bowed, "By your leave, Your Imperial Highness." awaiting to be excused.

[Excalbia]

Princess Christiana nodded slightly towards the Aerionian princess. “Thank you, Your Imperial Highness. I am honoured to accept Her Imperial Majesty’s kind invitation. I shall be at her disposal and awaiting the Grand Master.” With another nod, the princess added, “By your leave, Your Imperial Highness.” Then, she and the rest of her delegation followed the chamberlain down the central corridor.

When the chamberlain indicated the door to Sir Justin’s chambers, he gave a slight bow to the princess then followed. Princess Christiana, Lord Tariq and Janet Latsone continued on into the princess’ apartment.

“Quite lovely,” Princess Christiana said to the chamberlain as he followed him through stitting room and into the bed chambers. She took the remote with a gracious nod and handed it to Janet.

“Thank you, sir,” the princess said with a smile. “I think this will do quite well. I know you have many other pressing duties and I am sure that Larissa,” she gestured towards the maid, “will be able to help me with anything I require. Thank you, again.”

After the chamberlain departed, Christiana turned to the maid. “Larissa,” she said with a smile, “it is a pleasure to meet you.” She turned towards her son and chief of staff. “Could I ask that you ensure that Lord Tariq’s and Ms. Latsone’s rooms are ready for them? I will need a few moments alone with them. Afterwards, I would appreciate your help dressing for the evening.”

Once the maid had departed, Tariq let out a long, low whistle. “These people are so formal,” he said with a chuckle, “they make the Pantocratorians look the life of the party.”

Christiana smiled even as her voice adopted a chiding tone. “Now, now, Tariq,” she said, “one mustn’t be unkind to one’s hosts. Especially while one is still under their roof.”

Tariq nodded. “I’m sorry, mother,” he said not sounding particularly contrite.

“Run along and see to your room. I’m not sure if Her Imperial Majesty’s invitation includes you or not, so it would be best to dressed in case.”

The teenager nodded and headed out of the room in search of his own bed chambers, closing the door behind him.

Later, with the maid and Janet’s assistance, Princess Christiana prepared herself in the closest Excalbian equivalent to full court dress, lacking as it did the regimented customary styles associated with the Pantocratorian and Aerionian courts. In place of any traditional court dress, the Excalbian princess wore a floor-length silk dress in shimmering purple with gold and silver details. She wore a fur wrap and long gloves with her blonde hair styled in an elegant bun and topped with a golden tiara. Finally satisfied with her appearance in the mirror, Christina looked at the clock and awaited the arrival of the Grand Master of the Household.

[Aerion]

The Grand Master of the Household one Count Azfee Marzey entered holding his rod of office flanked by two of the Pādshah Empress’s Tirith-en-Altatari and accompanied by two Imperial Footmen. These elven guard were dressed in splendid white uniform. Count Marzey gestured, “Your Imperial Highness, it is my pleasure to bring you to the Room of Entrance. If you will follow me.” He gestured. He would have led her back out to the elevators with Imperial Footmen that flanked the doors opening the doors as they went. They would re-enter another elevator. The broad main elevators that were quiet luxurious, with chandeliers hanging in the gold embellished ceiling, and a plush velvet bench. An Imperial Page served as the elevator attendant. After the Master of the Household stated, “The Grand Staircase.” The Imperial Page pushed the button, and they ascended. The entrance to the Imperial Grand Levels is by way of the Grand Staircase, an marble imperial staircase that the main elevators conveniently terminate at. The arched glass of the pyramid mega-structure extends down dramatically past the Imperial Grand Staircase so as one ascends the staircase you can look out the almost entirely slanted glass wall upon the view behind. The Imperial Grand Staircase is of white marble, and behind it is a marble colonnade. Golden statues of various goddesses from various cultures adorn the balustrades.

Lining the Imperial Grand Staircase were regular Imperial Guard in ceremonial uniform with silver cuirasses over which were white cloaks, and silver helmets with white plumes. The entire staircase was lined with nearly a hundred of the Imperial Guard. The Master of the Household led the Excalbian Princess through the line slowly, ceremoniously up the center of the staircase. The two Tirith-en-Altatári followed behind side-by-side. They proceeded up the staircase,e and then into the Imperial Throne Room. They passed through broad double doors flanked by two Imperial Guard in ceremonial uniform, and into the Room of Entrance. The entry to the Gallery of Stars beyond was flanked by two Tirith-en-Altatári.

The Imperial High Steward Amando Vekrazai stood wearing black court uniform with elaborate braiding and the white sash of the Order of the White Wolf. He carried his golden staff of office. He was an Eastern Aerionian Italian man in his fifties with slicked back hair, a very elegant suave but bon vivant personality. He stood in the center of the Room of Entrance.

The Imperial High Steward spoke now, “Your Imperial Highness, we will lead you to the presence of Her Imperial Majesty.” He smiled warmly. The Master of the Household stood to the side as the Imperial High Steward smiled warmly. The two Tirith-en-Altatári followed behind side-by-side. They passed through the doorway into the Gallery of Stars. Before them lined with some space between them were forty of the Tirith-en-Altatári flanking an symbolic walkway through the Gallery of Stars. They then proceeded between this corridor of the guard to the Lamassu Staircase between the two black onyx Lamassu silently guarding it. Flanking the Lamassu were two Tirith-en-Altatári . They passed up the staircase, and into the Imperial State Apartments.

In the Grand Antechamber in the Imperial State Apartments stood Princess Jahanaray Wasterin, Grand Mistress of the Robes once again along with another man Marquis Benoît Resayzen, the Grand Chamberlain. He was an Eastern Aerionian man in his fifties. Princess Jahanaray smiled politely to the Excalbian Princess announcing, “We will lead you to the presence of Her Imperial Majesty.” Marquis Resayzen gave a half-bow. It was only a formal announcement as they walked through doorways of the Imperial State Apartments. Some of the doorways would force them into only one line. Every doorway they passed through had one Tirith-en-Altatári beside it.

From the Grand Antechamber through the The Salon of Motherland, The Salon of the White Wolf, The Salon of the Grandees. In the Salon of the Grandees stood to the side various Grandees of the Grand Empire. About nine couples, and a few individuals. Nobles of Grandee rank. The majority were Eastern or Western Aerionians of various ages though mostly older. The men wore the black court uniforms with elaborate braiding, and sashes of the Order of White Wolf or other orders. The women wore elaborate large court dresses also with sashes. They gazed haughtily upon the Excalbian Princess. The men performed a half-bow, and the women curtsied as they proceeded through. The next salon was the Salon of the Purpure, then the Salon of Abesharath.

In the Salon of Abesharath they paused beneath the gilded gold dome. Standing inside were other women of various ages in elaborate dress. There were also younger women. These were Ladies of the Bedchamber Grandee, Ladies of the Bedchamber, and Maids of Honuor. The Ladies of the Bedchamber Grandee and Ladies of the Bedchamber stood in elaborate wide court dresses of various colors, but mostly pink or shades of purple outside of the Imperial shade such as violet. Many wore ribands of the various honorific orders. Most wore a pink moirée riband of the Order of Serenasia with the badge, an all-female honors named for a mythical Aerionian queen often thought of as an avatar of Abeshala. The Ladies of the Bedchamber also wore diamond-encrusted miniature portraits of the Pādshah Empress hanging from a purple ribbon. The Maids of Honour who were younger unmarried noblewomen wore pins with the diamond encrusted initials of the Pādshah Empress topped by a crown. Most were Eastern Aerionian, but notably a few of the Ladies of the Bedchamber as well as Maids of Honour were Epheronian-Aerionian or Caucasian. They curtsied to the Excalbian Princess and Princess Jahanary as they entered the Salon of Abesharath. The tall white double doors to the Salon of Abeshala were closed and flanked by the Tirith-en-Altatári.

Princess Jahanary smiled politely, “We await here for the word that Her Imperial Majesty has arrived. Tonight you will be dining with her in the Salon of Abeshala. The individuals in the Salon of the Grandees were some of the nobles Grandee of the Empire. They were here to observe, but will not be joining you for dinner. These are the Ladies of the Bedchamber Grandee, Ladies of the Bedchamber, and the Maids of Honour to Her Imperial Majesty. They will not introduce themselves unless asked, but it is more appropriate not to ask.”

The Imperial Steward and Grand Chamberlain stood to the side conversing in a soft voice.

[Excalbia]

Princess Christiana and Janet Latsone were chatting when Count Marzey entered. Janet bowed deeply to the count, while Christiana gave a nod and a slight bow.

Count Marzey gestured, “Your Imperial Highness, it is my pleasure to bring you to the Room of Entrance. If you will follow me.”

“Of course, my Lord,” the princess said with another slight nod. She exchanged a look with Janet and followed the Grand Master of the Household and his entourage of guards and footmen out of the apartment and into the elevator.

The princess rode the elevator in silence, curious to compare the Empress’ opulence with that of the Despot of New Constantinople. As the doors of the elevator, she was not disappointed. The golden statues and white marble staircase would certainly not be out of place in New Constantinople. She followed the count up the staircase and through broad double doors.

Christiana nodded to the black uniformed steward and followed him as instructed. The gallery and all the associated pageantry were certainly impressive, although the princess seemed to take it all in with a bit of a jaded eye. She had never been one to be overly impressed with pageantry, although she had been known to make use of it herself when it suited her purposes.

As she entered the Grand Antechamber, Princess Christiana immediately recognized Princess Jahanaray and nodded to the young woman and the gentleman beside her.

Princess Jahanaray smiled politely to the Excalbian Princess announcing, “We will lead you to the presence of Her Imperial Majesty.” Marquis Resayzen gave a half-bow. It was only a formal announcement as they walked through doorways of the Imperial State Apartments. Some of the doorways would force them into only one line. Every doorway they passed through had one Tirith-en-Altatári beside it.

Princess Christiana followed the Aerionian princess and the Grand Chamberlain through the various salons. She noticed, about half-way through their journey, that they passed a chamber with a dozen or so couples and a handful of others in elaborate uniforms. She caught the smug looks on the faces of the women as they curtsied and smiled back sweetly, confident that she was far more attractive than any of them, far freer than any of dared dream and far, far richer.

When they finally reached what Christiana assumed would be her final stop before being ushered into the Empress’ presence she noticed the large number of young women in various elaborate dresses. The Empress’ ladies in waiting, she thought to herself.

Princess Jahanary smiled politely, “We await here for the word that Her Imperial Majesty has arrived. Tonight you will be dining with her in the Salon of Abeshala. The individuals in the Salon of the Grandees were some of the nobles Grandee of the Empire. They were here to observe, but will not be joining you for dinner. These are the Ladies of the Bedchamber Grandee, Ladies of the Bedchamber, and the Maids of Honour to Her Imperial Majesty. They will not introduce themselves unless asked, but it is more appropriate not to ask.”

Christiana smiled. So, she thought to herself, no one will speak with me unless I speak to them first, but it would be inappropriate to do so. How appropriately rank conscious. The princess smiled and contented herself with waiting patiently and trying inconspicuously to listen in to Jahanaray’s conversation with the Grand Chamberlain.