Vekaiyu / Azulcena relations

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1

Message sent via e-mail

— Begin quote from ____

Chancellor Count Mario Salazar of Chautengo,

Salutations! My name is Rin Sikalre, and I have been selected to become the newest foreign ambassador to your nation, Azulcena! I admit our government is undergoing some changes recently and will probably be making more changes as we progress, but in our changes we hope to open ourselves up to the realm. In the spirit of getting to know your nation, I would like to visit it and understand your customs first-hand. I am fresh out of college, but I have already studied up on your nation and I must say it intrigues me. I hope you do not mind I cannot speak Spanish at all, but I am trying to familiarize myself with the language. Anywho I hope I am able to fly to your nation. I have been given clearance by my government to fly, so my paperwork is complete should you decide to accept my offer.

Thank you and hasta luego!

Regards,
Rin Sikalre
Foreign Affairs Officer for Azulcena

— End quote

2

The email was quickly forwarded and cc’ed to everyone necessary, including the Chancellor. After some chatter and a meeting, the email reply arrived.

— Begin quote from ____

CHANCELLERY OF THE KINGDOM OF AZULCENA
Mario Salazar, 4th Count of Chautengo, Chancellor

Greetings, Ambassador Sikalre.  My office wholeheartedly welcomes your contact.  I have appointed a return ambassador to Vekaiyu, Hidalgo Adrian Silva.  Hidalgo Silva will be introduced to you upon your arrival here in our nation, and hopes to return with you to Vekaiyu to in kind experience your nation.  Azulcena is grateful for Vekaiyu’s interest, and we look forward to your visit.  Please find attached the communication protocols to organize your flight’s military escort and arrival ceremony.  We wholeheartedly accept your offer.

Hasta nos encontramos, until we meet,
Count Mario Salazar
Chancellor, Kingdom of Azulcena

— End quote

“Fresh out of college,” thought Salazar as he pressed “send.” “She will likely have a very positive outlook, then. That’s good. It will help our countries get along quickly.”

3

Rin Sikalre made certain her black, white, and gray overcoat was free from errant hairs and lint as the plane slowly rolled to a halt. She checked her foreign officer pin and smiled when she realized it was still level. When the plane stopped, she stood from her seat, paying little heed to the warning lights that cleared occupants to remove their seat belts, and headed down the aisle, waiting for the stairs to be rolled in front of the doorway. Her hair faced one last go-over from her thin fingers encased in white gloves. She was well-aware she’d be the first Vekaiyun foreign officer to don the new uniform, and pride steamed from her black and gray collar as her reflection shined in the window of the door.

Eventually the stairs were placed in front of the door and she was given clearance to depart from the plane. Opening the door was a snap. She moved down the stairs effortlessly as her white high heeled shoes moved from flight to flight. At the bottom was what presumed to be the Chancellor Mario Salazar, along with what appeared to be other officers and military personnel.

Rin bowed appropriately, then remembered that shaking hands was more customary. “Much welcome from the nation of Vekaiyu! I mean, Vekaiyu sends its warmest regards!” She held out a wooden box carved intricately in Unonian and inlaid with silver. “A gift for your nation. In this box contains twelve seeds from a jaku tree, a hardwood native to the Vekaiyun lands. May these seeds, like the relations between our two nations, grow and flourish!”

4

“Ambassador Rin Sikalre of the Republic of Vekaiyu, arriving!” came the announcement from an Azulcenian Air Force officer as soon as the jet’s door was opened. Chancellor Salazar, looking a bit chilled despite his long gray trench-coat and purple scarf, was looking up the stairs at her with a welcoming smile on his aging face, his own hands in black kidskin gloves. Beside him stood a slightly chubby man in a tan pea-coat and boots, his brown hair swept back. That was Hidalgo Adrian Silva, the man selected to be the return delegate of the Crown to Vekaiyu.

As Sikalre came to the foot of the stairs, the Chancellor took her hand and shook it warmly, looking in her eyes and smiling. “Many thanks from Azulcena and King Antonio, Kivia Sikalre,” he said. His aides had given him a few Unonian words to help make Sikalre feel welcome. “I am Chancellor Mario Salazar.” He took the proffered gift with a smile, looking over its intricate carvings and inlays and briefly opening it to gaze at the seeds within. “I will personally give this to su majestad when next I see him,” he said, pocketing the box. “Thank you. And now, for your gift!” He turned to an aide behind him and brought forward an object in each hand. In one was a bottle. “The finest vintage from the vineyards of Alcántara, prewar gran reserva wine. But that is just a fleeting gift for yourself.” In his other hand was a small golden key. “Once relations are finalized, your country can present this key to the curator of the Galería Nacional in Cuizaza, and he will let you select any one original painting to take back to Vekaiyu.”

He turned and presented Silva. “Allow me to present Hidalgo Adrian Silva, whom I have appointed Ambassador to your country.” Silva smiled professionally and shook Sikalre’s hand. “He’ll be accompanying us today. Now, if you don’t mind…” Salazar gestured to the Air Force officer, who turned and struck up a military honor band he was standing beside. The band played a rendition of Vekaiyu’s national anthem on native Azulcenian instruments while Salazar shook Sikalre’s hand many times, smiling for the flashing press cameras that were present.

5

Rin smiled for the cameras. She was well-aware that the very fact that she was vulpine may have caused more of a fascination of her appearance than anything else, but it was probably the fact that a foreign ambassador was on their smile. She bent her ears back slightly, but still maintained poise.

“Pleased to meet you,” she said to the portly man, shaking his hand, jerkily at first, then more fluid as the cameras continued to flash.

“And yes, thank you for the gifts! Gracias!” she replied, though in the back of her mind she was going over protocol on how Vekaiyu accepted national gifts. “Do foreign officers accept paintings and other national treasures, or does that fall into the forbidden category?” She couldn’t remember, or recall why there was a reason to refuse gifts such as that, but there would be time to go over her manuals later.

With the band playing, the simple but thoughtful Unonian spoken, and even the correct gender title, Rin wondered if this was commonplace for Vekaiyu to be accepted under such regards. If that was the case, then why was their nation so cold in the past? She did spend time to read up on past procedures - a welcoming such as this would have been greeted with suspicion in the past. Not the case anymore - now it was taken for face value. At least the state was changing, and when the state changed, exciting things happened.

6

“This is the first official contact between a non-human nation and our Kingdom,” said the coiffed and tanned newscaster, Ricardo Madrigal. He was turned away from the camera, looking at the projected image on the screen behind him, showing the brief welcoming ceremony as it drew to a close. “Chancellor Salazar is now handing off the Ambassador from Vekaiyu to a Royal Bersalier, who is conducting her to the waiting vehicle, which will take them all, no doubt, to where the official opening of relations between Azulcena and Vekaiyu will begin.” Subtitles in Spanish flashed beneath Madrigal as he spoke. The moment Rin Sikalre, Chancellor Salazar, and Hidalgo Silva disappeared into the waiting limousine, the image faded to the logo of ATV - Azulcena Television, the national news channel for the Kingdom. Madrigal turned around in his chair to face the camera, lifting a document from his desk and reading from it.

“The Chancellery released the following statement earlier this morning with regards to this visit: 'His Majesty and the Chancellery recognize the long road that lies ahead for the Republic of Vekaiyu after the devastating civil war they suffered this year. As we in Azulcena continue to recover from our own time of troubles, His Majesty wishes Azulcena to lend a friendly hand to others who have suffered similarly, regardless of their species. Let the horrors of those like Max Venavle and Merrill Rivers be healed, but never forgotten.”

Madrigal lowered the document. “Now, as we stated earlier, Vekaiyu is still in the middle of a massive recovery effort, especially in the city of Iruk, where the unbelievable tragedy of September 14th has left permanent scars.” A satellite image of Vekaiyu appeared behind Madrigal, which zoomed in until the city of Iruk filled the screen. “International efforts are still underway in Iruk and some other Vekaiyun cities to speed up the recovery; as always you can learn more about the tragedy and the ongoing efforts on our website, www.atv.azc.”

A paper was handed to Madrigal from offscreen. He skimmed it a moment, then looked into the camera with a smile. “On a lighter note, we do have a little information on what gifts were exchanged between Chancellor Salazar and Ambassador Sikalre. According to this incoming wire from the Boca a Boca newspaper, Chancellor Salazar received a box of seeds from a… jaku tree,” Madrigal pronounced the “j” in “jaku” as an “h,” “apparently a tree native to Vekaiyu. Chancellor Salazar gave the Ambassador a bottle of Alcántaran gran reserva and a small golden key - apparently when Vekaiyu and Azulcena grow to be good enough friends, Vekaiyu can cash that key in for a painting from the Galería Nacional which they will be allowed to display on indefinite loan.”

“…regardless of their species. Let the horrors of those like Max Venavle and Merill Rivers be healed, but never forgotten,” said Salazar, folding the Royal Statement and handing it across to Sikalre in the back of the limousine. “Ambassador, it is the King’s hope that Azulcena can become a model for inter-species relations in the region. I can’t tell you how pleased he is to have someone like you present in our capital city today.”

Silva decided to speak up for the first time. “I also look forward to being the first Azulcenian representing our whole country in a foreign land,” he said in a surprisingly powerful voice for such an unassuming-looking man. “I’ve already been picking out my staff and securing passage for us to Vekaiyu once we work everything out here. I hope that is not too presumptive, Ambassador?”

7

Rin took the statement and placed it in her briefcase where she had also placed the key bestowed to her nation. “Not at all,” she replied while folding one leg over the other. “I am sort of new at visiting other nations, and I do think your nation has done its homework with respect to Vekaiyu.” She paused. “We’re open to trying new things and establishing strong relations, especially since we’ve undergone a series of oppressive regimes prior to our new premier taking over.”

She looked outside through the window closest to her. “So what can I expect to be on the itinerary during my stay here? We should discuss relations between our nations some time during my stay, but I would like to learn and see a bit more of your culture, of course!”

8

((OOC: Collab post between Todd and I.))

Chancellor Salazar let Rin gaze out at the snowy, sunny landscape of the city of Cuizaza as they approached it. “Well, Ambassador,” he began, “We’ve decided to let you move into your suite at the Hotel Azulcena first, and prepare your notes and presentations, whatever you may have brought. This evening you’re invited to a formal dinner at the Chancellery, where we can discuss setting up a permanent embassy for Vekaiyu. Tomorrow, weather permitting, you may take a tour of Cuizaza, and we’ve arranged some live music over lunch. In the afternoon, King Antonio has expressed interest in meeting you.”

Rin turned around and gave a slight nod. The view from outside made her glad that her uniform should be able to stave at least some of the cold air. “Thank you,” she said with a smile and a nod. The constant drone of Vekaiyun protocol buzzed in her head. The attention she gave it was near nauseating, but the more she was in a different country, the easier she found the job to be.

“It is Vekaiyu’s interest to acquire property in Cuizaza for an embassy, no?” Salazar asked.

“Indeed it is,” she said as she folded one leg over the other and set an arm on the armrest. “We as a nation are eager to develop healthy relations with nations around the realm, and an embassy assures such relations will be bolstered.”

Salazar smiled. “Good. Because let me tell you, I’ve had a lot of real estate companies on my back ad nauseam, looking to sell some mansions and office buildings in town to any foreign nation who’ll buy. You’ll be able to take a file of listings home for your government’s consideration.” Silva chuckled amicably.

“That would be very much appreciated, thank you,” she replied, turning her attention to the picturesque view from the limousine. Outside, the city of Cuizaza soon overtook the view, and Rin found herself among colorful apartment and condominium towers, old and stately city mansions, shops, awnings protecting vibrant street markets, and newer, looming office skyscrapers. The limo was able to part traffic before it, thanks to its motorcycle escort. “I am sure there will be many good properties to look at, as the view is impeccable. I can say I think we would pick a building more than a former residential property just for the sake of functionality.”

“That makes sense,” the Chancellor said with a nod. The limousine wended its way along the avenues and streets of the capital city, eventually approaching a pair of grand wrought iron gates, beside which was a broad stained-brass sign. “Government Center / Centro del Gobierno,” it read. Within were a series of buildings, old and new, all of them looking to be offices for the various Azulcenian ministries, arranged in a university-like campus configuration. The limousine stopped shortly within the gates, pulled up beside a tall, older-looking building. “Here we are, the Hotel Azulcena,” Salazar announced.

“Very nice,” she commented, waiting to be let out. She felt maybe she should get out herself, but then remembered it would probably be best to wait and follow direction.

Formally-dressed Royal Bersaliers stood guard outside the main doors of the Hotel. They approached the door and opened it, allowing Rin to step out. Much to her surprise, it looked like her luggage had beaten her to the Hotel, as it was being carried into the building by footmen. Salazar reached across to shake her hand before she left. “It’s an honor and a pleasure to have met you, Ambassador. If you need anything, you may contact me directly at this number.” He handed across a personal business card.

Rin took the business card and set it in her briefcase. She was still getting used to the notion of shaking hands, but she adjusted quickly to different surroundings. “I will be certain to do that,” she responded. “Thank you for the accomodation.”

The Chancellor gave her a smile, his mustache curling up at the corners. “Ambassador, I know it may get boring between now and the state dinner tonight, so if you wish to get out and explore a bit, let any one of your attendants know and a car will be brought around for you.” A chill breeze drifted in through the open car door.

She stepped forward, out of the car. “I shall enjoy the sights, but you’ll have to excuse me, I will need to settle down for a bit and collect the information I’ve been given.” She grabbed her briefcase and held it in front of her. “Us vulpines can handle the cold, but we don’t have a subcutaneous layer, so we can stand frigid temperatures, but not as long as you might be able to.”

Salazar nodded and hastily ushered her from the limousine. “By all means, Ambassador, go get warm. I assure you our summers are much, much warmer.” Silva shook her had as well, nodding and murmuring something about it being a pleasure and honor to meet her as well.

Rin nodded and paused as her ears caught the mumbling tone. “Is everything okay?” she asked.

Silva looked a bit surprised, but spoke up a little more loudly. “Of course, Ambassador, I’m sorry. I hope you enjoy your stay.” He smiled, and it seemed genuine, though behind his eyes he looked a bit troubled.

Rin shrugged it off and didn’t give it a second thought. Perhaps she shouldn’t have said anything, but her species was well adept to listening in on conversations. “Okay then,” she said with a smile. Salazar eyed Silva a moment, but betrayed no worry in his expression. The Royal Bersaliers saluted her smartly.

“Until we meet again, Ambassador,” said Salazar. The Royal Bersaliers shut the limousine door and it pulled away. Immediately, a footman approached Rin and gestured for her to enter the building as he bowed to her.

Rin respectfully bowed in return. “Thank you, the hospitality here is very good indeed!”

The footman stood, looking a bit caught off-guard by her bow, but he nodded and said nothing, approaching the front door and opening it for her. Rin stepped into the door, nodding at the gesture. The footman shut the door behind her and politely conducted her to the elevator, across a lavishly-decorated lobby appointed in crimson and gold. The carpet was thick and plush, and various attendants were scurrying about, handling baggage and carrying messages. The elevator was awaiting them already, called earlier by another footman. The one with her allowed her to enter first, then followed and selected their floor.

9

Some months had passed since Rin had been welcomed to Azulcena. The chill, snowy winter had given way to a bright and promising spring, followed by a hot, sunny summer. The weather was now waning into the fall, and Cuizaza seemed almost perpetually rainy.

In the intervening months, her government had secured an embassy in the downtown of the city. The purchase price had been reasonable considering the grounds and amenities, and Vekaiyu was allowed to fly in her staff and an appropriate military compliment to provide guard duty for the building. Vekaiyu’s flag now flew over a small patch of land in Azulcena. And in that time, Hidalgo Silva had set up shop in Vekaiyu’s capital city of Eldura. From what she’d heard through her government, he was proving to be an amicable and able Ambassador.

Chancellor Salazar and his staff had been nothing but accomodating to her requests for meetings and discussions concerning every aspect of Azulcenian/Vekaiyun relations. The early months of her tenure in Azulcena had been punctuated primarily with an influx of correspondence from Azulcenians curious about her country; even some schools had asked her to come give lectures or seminars. Others were eager to send aid in the aftermath of the Vekaiyun Civil War. From all the tours she had been given, it was clear that Azulcena still had plenty of healing to do on its own - in some places physically, in many others spiritually. Her meeting with King Antonio had been longer than she’d expected at the time, but he had explained as they’d been speaking that he was willing to afford their first official foreign Ambassador some extra time, to forge a stronger bond. She was also afforded time with most of Azulcena’s prominent Minsters.

Now, it seemed as if on a cue, businesses across Azulcena were petitioning for trade agreements with Vekaiyu. It was as if they’d all completed their market research at the same time. Despite Vekaiyu’s more socialist leanings, most companies in Azulcena were eager to start doing business in a new market, at least those that felt they could be competitive in the long-term. Among all the letters and requests from big-time trout farming and mineral mining companies, there was the scattered letter or two from upstart small businesses, including a middle-aged man who seemed perfectly willing to move his wife and two children to “Eldara” - his own misspelling of the capitol’s name - just to try running an Azulcenian-themed restaurant there.