They'd Rather be Gulfing

Roleplay Library
1

“Yes milady. Yes milady. Of course milady. Yes. I will send him my regards. Thank you. Out.”

Ler Commodore Vanse Lebivistre shrugged his shoulders as he closed shut his cell phone. He gave the window outside of his headquarters a final go-over. With the action dying down in Iruk, the gallows not as occupied as they were in previous days, and the firing squads all with nothing to do, it was probably time to move on and adhere to his duties in his new position. With the Premier’s good graces and a small window of operation, it was time to take advantage of the break.

Lebivistre was older, passed his prime as far as vulpines were concerned. In nine years he’d be fifty, practically old age for his kind. But he didn’t soften over the years. Instead, he was a strict commodore and seemed to annually raise his standards. Those under his command were doomed to a service of working at a grueling pace with little reward, forced to continuously reach for a bar that was too high by most accounts, but there was no excuse for failing to accomplish a goal. He was not a Maxist, though he was brought up on the accords of their first teachings, before the regime took a most decided turn for the worst. His work defined him. The performance of his units defined him.

He was one who believed in the power of the mind. If one thought they could do it, and they had the means to do it, there was simply no excuse not to do it. And while his policies didn’t match up to the previous regime’s philosophies or methodologies, he didn’t water down his beliefs. Soldiers were drones. One could never teach a drone with a soft voice - it had to be loud, aggressive, and followed by physical punishment. He was the judge, jury, and, most recently, executioner in his own ranks.

But he had to be taken away from his old job as a field commander. Now he was studying Vekaiyun ranks and naval placements. Since he was trained in the earliest days of Maxism, his veteran experience allowed him to know the ins and outs of the armed forces for his nation. And if there was something he wanted to take advantage of, it would be the Vekaiyun navy. It had been maintained, but its patrolling space had been cut over the years as the necessity for naval prowess was no longer needed as much, and it became too expensive to keep all fleets going. Hopefully it would find use again.

Opening his computer, he set to work going over his new contact lists. Adding foreign affairs offices from select nations, outlined in the email, the Ler Commodore began writing a message to parties of his interest.

— Begin quote from ____

To the foreign affairs minister of interest,

Allow me to introduce myself. I am Ler Commodore Vanse Lebivistre of Vekaiyu. I have been given permission by the Premier of Vekaiyu, Ikrisia Levinile, and the Minister of Foreign Trade in Vekaiyu, Imanov Risilake, to forge an alliance of trade and defense centered on nations bordering the Gulf of Itur.

It is to this end I wish to invite a representative of your nation to attend a conference in the coastal metropolis of Calesu to discuss the provisions of such an alliance. Your presence would be most appreciated. I would recommend sending a representative or representatives who are skilled in naval prowess and trade.

If you wish to remain in the know, I have invited the following nations to attend such a conference:
• Dyr Nasad
• Listonia
• Raedion-Lucari
• Southern Yugoslavia
• Vekaiyu
• Vulshain

Should you accept, I will order the organizers of such a conference to provide you with further details. Thank you.

Respectfully,
Vanse Lebivistre

— End quote

2

— Begin quote from ____

Dear Ler Commodore Vanse Lebivistre of Vekaiyu,

The Confederacy of Vulshain would be very willing to send a representative to Vekaiyu to attend this Gulf of Itur Summit Conference to discuss such matters of trade and defense.

While we will be sending three representatives, Counter Admiral Emelia Aleksandra Borislavia of the Confederate Navy, Royal Congressman Werurar Koparus, and the head of the Confederate Strategic Rocket Forces (CSRF), General-Major Jiesama Manond, Vulshain wishes to know if the meeting will be taking place at the same time as King Samuil Rainard’s visit to Vekaiyu.

In addition, Congressman Koparus will be bringing his son, Gathegio, with him.  We hope this isn’t a problem for you.  Congressman Koparus has ensured me that his son will be very well-behaved at this meeting.

Again, thank you for inviting Vulshain to attend this very important meeting in the hopes of establishing stronger bonds of peace between the nations of the Gulf of Itur.

Sincerely,

Chief Prime Minister Adalberto Spencer of the Confederacy of Vulshain

— End quote

3

— Begin quote from ____

To:Vanse Lebivistre

The Conglomerate would be willing to oblige your request for representatives at this conference. I will attend the conference that you have invited us to, along with Admiral Adelus Kors, commander of the Conglomerate’s eastern defense fleet; and Avery Gavins, our trade specialist, and the Warehouse Overseer at the trade shipyards in Omegapolis.

We look forward to working with you and others at this conference. The Board would like to express its desire to promote friendship and peace with our neighbors.

Sincerely,
Sergei Fedorov - Director of Defense, Veranian Conglomerate

— End quote

“Is this a good idea? Have you been sitting behind a desk too long?” Kors scratched behind his ears as he spoke in Veranian. Adelus was a vulpine, who excelled in Officer’s Training School and took command of the eastern fleet after the previous admiral retired. He had jet-black fur mottled with white, and his eyes shone a crystal blue. Although rather stoic-looking, he was only in his late thirties.

“This isn’t my desk, you realize that, right?” Fedorov picked up the letter and held it up to the ceiling lights. “Hmm. Do you think we should’ve used a fancier parchment?”

“It looks fine to me. Looks like office paper. That’s how it should be, right?”

“This isn’t some desk jockey job, Adelus.”

“Regardless…” Adelus picked up the letter sent to them by Lebivistre. “This, uh… Gulf of Itur… that’s… a new term to me. What would that be?” Adelus started writing on the letter Fedorov just finished.

“Must be the seas our islands sit in the center of.”

“… I see.” Adelus finished writing his note at the end of the letter.

— Begin quote from ____

Please excuse my ignorance, but what is this Gulf of Itur? - Adelus

— End quote

OOC: Sorry if I missed any previous RP about it, but I don’t recall it being mentioned anywhere.

4

With the messages passed on to the Vekaiyun Foreign Affairs department, the Foreign Officers set to work on organizing the process.

— Begin quote from ____

Chief Prime Minister Adalberto Spencer of the Confederacy of Vulshain,

This is Sayli Novoleskvu, the Vekaiyun Foreign Officer to Vulshain. I will be coordinating your arrival to Calesu. I’ve been forwarded your email and have been instructed with the details of this meeting. Please bear in mind that sometimes too many representatives can place burdens on progress. The Ler Commodore has also informed me that he would prefer equal representation among the delegations. It is with this notion I regret to inform you that Gathegio is welcome to our nation, but cannot attend the meeting due to this stipulation and the fact that Vekaiyu has in the past had difficulties with inviting pre-adult persons to meetings of importance. We hope this is not a problem.

Please accept the procedures I am forwarding you. They provide details with the time of the meeting, the location, and instructions on arriving to the complex. Calesu is a safe city of progress in Vekaiyu, but your delegation will be escorted by Vekaiyun guards to your destination upon your plane’s arrival.

Feel free to send me any questions you have. Thanks!

Truthfully,
Sayli Novoleskvu
Vekaiyun Foreign Officer to Vulshain

— End quote

— Begin quote from ____

Sergei Fedorov - Director of Defense, Veranian Conglomerate,

Hello, this is Yva Nikolestre, the Vekaiyun Foreign Officer to Raedion-Lucari. I’ve been empowered with handling the arrival of your delegation to Vekaiyu! I have been informed by our Ler Commodore of the details of the meeting, and have been forwarded your email. Ler Commodore sends his regards.

The Gulf of Itur I understand is a Vekaiyun naming convention. It represents the vast body of water surrounding your nation and bordered by many nations in the realm: Bai Lung, Dveria, Dyr Nasad, Listonia, Southern Yugoslavia, Warre, Vekaiyu, and Vulshain. I would be happy to inform the Ler Commodore with what your people call the body of water.

Your delegation has been approved, and I’m forwarding you procedures on arriving to the city, the location, and the times of the meeting. Calesu is a safe city, but we are always concerned for the safety of foreign delegations and you will be escorted by Vekaiyun guards to the meeting. For further instructions and announcements, please refer to the pdf file I’ve attached in this email.

Thanks, and if you have any further questions do not hesitate to ask!

Sincerely,
Yva Nikolestre
Vekaiyun Foreign Officer to Raedion-Lucari

— End quote

((OOC: Assume the file is attached to their emails. Also, is it Raedion Lucari or Verania?))

5

OOC: Foreign dignitaries can use whichever one they want, at their preference - “the Conglomerate” would be a broader term but still viable.

6

Fleet Admiral Serj Lyka sat down to his desk. He was rather young for his position, turning 30 only days before. He seemed to almost blend in with his uniform, due to his brown fur and the tan uniform, but his blue eyes were said to give him away. He commanded the Navy’s South Fleet, which patrolled Southern Yugoslavia’s southern waters. He had received the position after the original Admiral was honorably discharged due to a medical problem.

He opened his email, and scanned over the email sent by Lebivistre. Sipping from his coffee mug, he began typing a reply.

— Begin quote from ____

Ler Commodore Vanse Lebivistre,

I have been selected to represent Southern Yugoslavia in the upcoming Gulf of Itur Summit. Also in attendance will be Vice Admiral Iskira Ruikov, my second-in-command. We currently command the South Fleet, who is in charge of defending our waters in the Gulf of Itur.

I do hope that our current military actions in the island nation of Rygard will not affect the outcome of the meeting or any agreements that will be made. We hope to see you soon.

Sincerely,
Fleet Admiral Serj Lyka - Commander of the South Fleet

— End quote

He clicked ‘send’ just as Iskira walked in. She was a few years younger than Serj, and had grey fur and tufts of black fur on her torso. Her green eyes shone in the sun peeking through the blinds. “Morning, Iskira. How was your week of leave?” Iskira poured herself a cup of coffee. “It was nice to finally get some rest. Did you send the email you called me about?” Serj nodded. “Just sent it.”

7

— Begin quote from ____

Fleet Admiral Serj Lyka - Commander of the South Fleet,

I am glad you are able to make attendance! I am Rin Sokolistre, the Vekaiyun Foreign Officer to Southern Yugoslavia. I have been updated with your situation and am in charge of ensuring your safe passage to the summit. I’m currently sending you procedures for the meeting, as well as the times and locations. Please read over them carefully.

Your delegation has been approved and Ler Commodore sends his warmest regards to them. He will meet with them in Calesu at the appropriate compound. Calesu is a safe city, but as a precaution you will be escorted by Vekaiyun guards to the meeting.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to ask!

Regards,
Rin Sokolistre
Vekaiyun Foreign Officer to Southern Yugoslavia

— End quote

8

((OOC, might as well start the meeting))

Ler Commodore Vanse Lebivistre entered the Yvesilesi Building for Foreign Relations flanked by Vekaiyun guards. There wasn’t really a need for such a presence, but in a nation that just finished a civil war, one could not take too many precautions. Still, Calesu was relatively unaffected by the war. It remained in relative peace throughout the contest, turning its back from the nation behind it and out to the sea, which remained calm and tranquil. The city played the role of Pontius Pilate in the contest: washing itself clean from the skirmish, it instead chose not to get involved, and its people, decidedly loyalist in nature, stood back and let the two sides decide the contest. They were above the war. Ten years ago, however, they were highly militarized and served as a base for ground, sea, and air forces. But that was then. Now the city was a progressive one, one that wanted to shed its darker past and instead lift it to the skies where its tall buildings and modern architecture reflected the sun above like the water around them.

Lebivistre gave little regard for such things, however. Functionality was more important than beauty as far as buildings were concerned. But his business was in those under his command, and discipline and impeccable ability were beautiful in his eyes, even if his eyes were covered in aviator shades, partially because it was indeed sunny out, but also because he was aware of his own body language. Those who feared him said his tense face could melt any ego and his stare could break a man in half. Those who hated him noticed his facial features and said he was in a permanent bowl movement, especially when one considered how he talked – short staccato phrases. But most at least respected him due to his age and demanding personality.

“Are all preparations ready?” He asked. His uniform of blue with gold accents was next to immaculate, and the shine in his shades shimmered without blemish.

“Affirmative,” an officer replied. “The staff has prepared a conference room and is ready to accommodate the representatives.” He motioned to his left to a front desk but stopped when the Ler Commodore didn’t follow his motions. “There are translating devices ready for those who are not fluent in English, just in case.”

“I am aware,” he replied. “The Minister of Sea Trade has arrived?”

“He has been directed to the conference room, sir.”

Lebivistre produced a single, fluid nod. “Very well. I shall join him there. Inform all arrivals to join us in Conference Room A. Ensure that their introductions are befitting to their position, and their arrival to the lobby is without problem.”

The officer didn’t speak, but instead saluted his superior. A quick dart with his eyes allowed for a final go-over to observe the conditions of the lobby. The marbled floor glistened and the marbled columns were spotless. Jaku wooden walls stained a dark brown were housings for large but various Vekaiyun symbols and motifs, all important in showing off decadence. The fountain in the center of the room was an echo of serenity, and all the plant life were alive and clean. A crystalline chandelier hung above the fountain, appearing like an extension of the water itself. The Vekaiyun flag hung proudly on one of the walls. Even the pens on the marble-topped desk were in their rightful holders. Perfect.

“One last thing.”

“Yes, Ler Commodore?”

“Music. This is a lobby to a foreign relations building, not a mausoleum. It is far too quiet in here. Traditional Vekaiyun music must be played over the speakers.”

The officer paused, then gave a slight nod. “Yes sir.” He snapped his fingers as a staff member approached him. “Traditional music, now,” he said as his superior proceeded to walk toward a hallway.

9

Yvesilesi Building for Foreign Relations, Calesu, Vekaiyu

Counter Admiral Emelia Aleksandra Borislavia of the Confederate Navy, Royal Congressman Werurar Koparus, and the head of the Confederate Strategic Rocket Forces (CSRF), General-Major Jiesama Manond, the members of the Vulshainian Gulf of Itur delegation had arrived and were now waiting in the lobby of the Yvesilesi Building for Foreign Relations.

Counter Admiral Borislavia’s bluish-black uniform with gold piping clashed with her gray and red fur. General-Major Manond stood beside Royal Congressman Koparus and his son, Gathegio. She wore her black and green uniform with white piping as well as her red scarf. Both Koparus and his son were wearing navy blue suits, although Koparus wore a black tie while his son wore a gray tie. Both the counter admiral and the General-Major were female lobos. Behind the head of the CSRF was her assistant Podpolkovnik Burkhard Vladilen, Jr., a tall dark brown haired human man. The three military officers wore greatcoats.

10

“Ah,” the officer from before replied, “the delegation from Vulshain! Good to meet you!” He nodded respectfully as staff members of the building filed in with their bags, taking them to their assigned rooms. It wasn’t Vekaiyun custom to shake hands, so he hoped the nod would be acceptable. “Welcome to Vekaiyu, I hope your flight to our nation was enjoyable. I am Solike General Irvano Milikivastre, serving under the Vekaiyun 71st infantry division stationed near Calesu.”

He offered to guide the delegation with a gesture of his gloved hand, the Yskavirge of his uniform bending slightly to accommodate his left arm movement. “The Yvesilesi Building was built right next to the Gulf of Itur, so the conference should be both fitting for the occasion and relaxing. I hope you enjoy your stay here. I will not be present for the meeting, but once you are directed to the conference room any questions or comments about your stay may be directed to the staff here. They have been informed of your presence and will work to assure your stay is enjoyable.”

11

Royal Congressman Werurar Koparus nodded. “Thank you, Solike General Irvano Milikivastre. If I may ask, will General-Major Jiesama Manond and I be sharing the same room?”

He hoped that was the case.

12

Milikivastre stopped upon hearing the question. “I uh… if you wish, you may request the same room and we will ready it for you. We have prepared separate rooms based on the assumption that everyone would need their own room, but if you require the same room, we will be able to accommodate that.”

13

Royal Congressman Werurar Koparus smiled and nodded. “Thank you. General-Major Manond and I would appreciate that, if it’s not too much trouble that is. And it will be just me and her who will be sharing a room together.”

The General-Major smiled as well. On her right hand was an engagement ring with the Royal Congressman’s initials on it.

14

Outside the Yvesilesi Building for Foreign Relations, Calesu, Vekaiyu

Admiral Lyka and Vice Admiral Ruikov approached the Yvesilesi Building in Calesu after a ride from the airport. Their shoes shined in the sunlight. The two lobos exchanged words in Lobonese as they crossed the parking lot.

“Well, Iskira, are you ready?”

“Yes. So where do you suppose we’ll end up in this alliance?” She looked over at Serj.

“Well, hopefully we’ll be in a good position to defend our interests. The only thing I’m worried about at the moment is how we’ll be look at by the other delegates. After all, we are the youngest admirals in the Motherland’s Navy.”

“I suppose. But why us?”

“You know this. Our fleet defends our waters in the Gulf.”

They approached the door.

“Besides, it’s good practice.” Serj opened the door for Iskira, and entered after her. Both removed their hats and sunglasses.

15

“Good luck at the conference,” Milikivastre said as he waved his hand.

He watched as the delegation from Southern Yugoslavia entered the lobby area. They seemed to be speaking Lobonese, but he didn’t know anything outside of a few words. Why he was selected to greet delegations despite being limited by two languages was beyond him, but he was not one to question the moves of his superiors.

“Greetings,” he replied as he approach the two. “I am Solike General Irvano Milikivastre, serving under the Vekaiyun 71st infantry division stationed near Calesu. I hope your trip to our nation was an enjoyable one.” He nodded respectfully as workers swarmed around their bags and began picking them up. “They will take your bags to your personal quarters for the duration of this meeting.”

He offered the two to follow him by a simple hand gesture. “The Yvesilesi Building was built right next to the Gulf of Itur, so the conference should be relaxing and without stress. I hope you enjoy your stay here. I will not be present for the meeting, but once you are directed to the conference room any questions about your stay may be directed to the staff here. They have been informed of your presence and will work to assure your stay is enjoyable.”

16

Serj nodded and responded in English, with a thick Laiat (essentially Russian/Slavic) accent. “Thank you, Solike General. Have any other delegations arrived yet?”

He turned his gaze towards Milikivastre, looking him in the eye, common courtesy and a sign of respect in Southern Yugoslavia.

17

“Yes,” he replied calmly. “Vekaiyu and Vulshain have arrived. The Ler Commodore has informed me the talks may commence once three parties have arrived.” He paused. “Unfortunately, Listonia could not be present for such talks, but a videophone has been set up where Stapen Evesuni will be joining. He will only be present for initial discussions as he has informed us he will be in dispose later today.”

He motioned the delegation to follow him as he walked down the spacious marbled hallways, his polished boots clicking against the reflective rock. He halted and stood to attention once he reached two large wooden doors made of jaku wood, standing roughly two stories high and giving an almost cathedral-like charm to the entrance of the room. Inside the room was a round table with a hologram projection in the center of the table, presumably to display the various visual aids during the talks. Pads and papers were distributed for each seat, two of which were occupied: one by Ler Commodore Vanse Lebivistre in his blue uniform and another by the Minister of Foreign Trade in Vekaiyu, Imanov Risilake, who looked slightly out of place wearing a bowtie and glasses to top off an expensive-looking black suit. However, he didn’t give off a geeky appearance: instead, reclined in his chair, moving a pen back and forth on his knuckles.

“Ah,” Lebivistre said. “Please, sit down. We will begin talks momentarily.” His speech was still intense and staccato, almost like he hadn’t had an anus in about ten years.

“Indeed,” Imanov replied, trying to get focused on the task at hand. His attention was swayed to Evesuni’s screen turning on. He didn’t say anything; instead, the Listonian dictator just sat in a chair and seemed to be assessing the situation.

18

Serj straightened his dress coat and walked inside the large room with Iskira. Their shoes simultaneously clicked against the floor as they proceeded to their seats. Serj pulled out Iskira’s seat, allowing her to sit first. Once she was seated, he took a seat. He placed a briefcase to the left of his leg, and moved the chair closer to the table.

He scanned over Lebivistre and Imanov. He leaned closer to Iskira, and whispered to her in Lobonese.

“I don’t know if I trust them. They seem like they’re ‘all business’. Not enough socialization. Right down to it. I don’t like dealing with people like that.”

Iskira whispered back, also in Lobonese. “No Lobo in their right mind does. Well, we’ll have to see what direction the meeting goes before we can fully mistrust or trust them.”

Serj nodded, and glanced towards Evesuni. “What do you make of him?”

“Too quiet. Don’t trust him much, either.” Iskira scratched her chin. “Let’s just hope we get into a position we like.” Serj nodded and returned his attention to the Vekaiyu delegation, and sat quietly.

OOC:
http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/russia-country-profile.html

19

Counter Admiral Emelia Aleksandra Borislavia of the Confederate Navy, Royal Congressman Werurar Koparus, and the head of the Confederate Strategic Rocket Forces (CSRF), General-Major Jiesama Manond, the members of the Vulshainian Gulf of Itur delegation, as well as the head of the CSRF’s assistant, Podpolkovnik Burkhard Vladilen, Jr., a tall dark brown haired human man, entered the room, having been escorted by the Vekaiyuns. (OOC: Both the counter admiral and General-major are lobos; the Royal Congressman is a Vulpine).

The Royal Congressman smiled when he spotted the Southern Yugoslavian delegates. “Ah, I see the delegates from Vulshain’s new ally, Southern Yugoslavia, are here.” He approached them. “I hope your trip here was pleasant. I am Royal Congressman Werurar Koparus of Vulshain.” He introduce the other Vulshainian delegates. Podpolkovnik Vladilen’s icy blue eyes seemed to cause chills to run up the spines of anyone he looked at, and right now, he was studying Evesuni. The Royal Congressman held out his hand to Serj.

OOC: Never did like people who were ‘all business’, even in real life. We Southerners have a lot in common with how Russians conduct business meetings.

20

Serj stood up and firmly grasped the Royal Congressman’s hand with an almost bone-crushing grip. He firmly shook it and looked him in the eye. “Thank you, Congressman. Always a pleasure to work with friends of the Motherland. I am Fleet Admiral Lyka, and this is my second-in-command, Vice Admiral Ruikov.”

Serj moved out of the way, and greeted the Counter Admiral and General-major in the traditional lobo way. Iskira stood up and shook hands with the Congressman. “Pleasure to meet you, Congressman.”

OOC: Southerner, eh? Which state are you from?