//please note, this is only for those invited in this post. If you think you should be involved, please poke alphawolf215 on skype
Buckingham Palace, Planet New London, New London, Sirius. 22nd Febuary 822 A.S.
11:00 A.M SMT
Buckingham Palace stands proud at the centre of Planet New London's largest city. The iconic home of the royal family of Bretonia, and an exact replica of the same building on Earth, back in Sol.
Throughout the courtyard stand soldiers, wearing their symbolic redcoats, and tall bearskin hats. A large number stand ready at the gates, waiting for them to open to allow the first car to enter. As it does, it drives straight forward, towards the arch way, leading to a central courtyard within the building. As the assorted guests step out, they approach the doors, open, another two guards standing either side. Their boots click together as you pass in a salute.
You enter into the main entrance hall, to find a steward waiting for you. He shakes your hand firmly, and goes on to explain the basic rules as you make your way to the reception area.
Good morning [insert your characters name and position].
I am Jason Dickins, head steward for Buckingham Palace. I will be your guide today, however any of the stewards positioned about the Palace will be able to assist you. The soldiers that are positioned around the place will also be able to call a steward for your guidance.
They turn a corner, headed to the south wing of the Palace
Before you meet Her Majesty, I must advise you on proper procedure when meeting Her Majesty the Queen.
As it is listed in the Neural Net page for The Bretonian Monarchy, men will do a short bow from the neck up, and women are expected to perform a small curtsy. Upon presentation to the Queen, the correct procedure is to open with Your Majesty, and to follow with ma'am.
If any male members of the royal family arrive, you are to open with Your Royal Highness, and to follow with Sir. Any additional members of the Royal Family that are not Queen Carina herself, you are to open with Your Royal Highness, and follow with Ma'am.
I hope I have not confused you with this. It can be quite a lot for some at first.
They approach two large doors, which open when they get near. Inside is a large, extravagant room. Paintings of past monarchs, and at the far end, a raised section with the throne place upon it. Around the room stand stewards and maids, holding glasses of Champaign on silver platters. The head steward steps to one side, extending his arm in the direction of the room, indicating you go in. He bows, as he earlier indicated
Her Majesty will be with you shortly. I hope you enjoy your day with us.
With that, he turns, heading back to the front entrance.
Lord Jarrow and his son, James William Piett are walking through the main alley leading to the central courtyard withing the Palace. They are followed by Jarrow's personal guardsmen - four tall men wearing black coats on top of their crimson red armors. From first sight it would be noticed that these guards were not part of the ordinary protection services which most of the nobility were using. One of them is carrying a small suitcase with unknown yet content which possibly would be of importance to the Lord.
James walking right next to his father is looking a bit worried. After all it is his first meeting with the Queen in person and because of that he is wearing his official uniform of the armed forces corporals - specifically created for such affairs. Still, he is confused about the reasons for his presence. Usually his father never bothering him with political matters so why now? And it was not some kind of a normal request...it was a royal invitation personally sent for his entire family...including him of course. Why me? - he is thinking.
Lord Jarrow is walking with dignity. He was covered in his own armor wearing same black coat like the one used by his guards. He was looking forward to remove his helmet after the restoration cycle on his body was complete but what was behind the mask would not be in the terms of polite manners to be revealed to all these important people. To remain like that was the only option for now. For him to meet the Head of Bretonia was not considered as special case. As minister of defense of Her Majesty's Realm it was very common to be in her presence countless of times. Nevertheless what was strange was the reason behind this meeting. Usually the Queen would share anything with him but she hasn't done that this time. A lot of thoughts were swimming in his mind, some with no answers. Buckingham Palace is not a place for ordinary meetings. Royal conventions of that magnitude are also not very common since the war with Kusari broke out. Her Majesty should have very important things to announce considering the guests that were invited at this day - all representatives of Bretonia high nobility, its allies and even princess Alice DeFrance. There is huge possibility Her Majesty to have decided to do something about Bretonia as a whole, a change perhaps. Maybe that is why she insisted those close to her to be present, to be the first ones to hear this notification. But what excactly would be that about? The small group is closing to the main entrance of the Palace. Still, Jarrow's mind continues to analyze. Situation like this would be excellent for any agent, being part of an enemy or an ally fraction, to test his capabilities. - a small grin appears but it was hidden behind his helmet - If such acts are been planned by anyone, they will fail. None shall lay hand on the Queen this day.
The group enter into the main hall where the steward was waiting for them.Good morning, lord Jarrow - he bows to Jarrow - Good morning, young lord William Piett - he bows to James as well. Then he introduced himself.Jarrow raised a hand to interrupt Dickins.Mister Dickins, I will be leaving you with my son for I have other important matters to attend before the arrival of the guests. I am sure my son will find what you have to say as very important since he is here for the first time.Jarrow is giving a sign to two of his men to remain with James and the other two to follow him. He is closing to one of the redcoat guards and asks him a question - Guard, where is the chief of security of the Palace - Commander Watson? - The guard is giving a quick salute and answers - Commander Watson is inspecting the guards on the other side of the Palace, my lord. I might suggest you head to the Headquarters section and wait for him there. I will make sure he is informed about your arrival.Jarrow nods - Very well. - then he and his two bodyguards are moving to the Headquarters located underground the Palace.
Ten minutes laters, commander Watson enters the headquarters. He is looking tired - like being running in order to be here as fast as possible.Apology for making you wait me, my lord. What was the reason for your sudden request to summon me? - Watson asks.Jarrow is giving a signal to the guard carrying the suitcase to open it. Inside there are two modules, pieces of equipments used by the armed forces for keeping data chips safe. The guard took both modules and gave them to Jarrow. Jarrow is taking the chips and is turning to face commander Watson. I want you to install these in the security systems, immediately. They are new programs to modify our anti-cloaking generators around the Palace and double their capabilities. We both understand how important this situation actually is...and also how much dangerous it is to our Queen as well. We must not allow possible uninvited guests to take part of this meeting. Precautions and double security measures would never be of harm when it comes to Her Majesty protection.Jarrow is giving commander Watson one of the modules. He raises the hand carrying the second module.This one is supposed to temporary jam any signals coming in and out around this place. I also want you to install it but keep the inter communications online. That will be all for now, commander.Jarrow is giving the second module to commander Watson. Commander Watson is taking the modules and salutes to Jarrow.It will be done as you ask, my lord. I've already have instructed the guards of the importancy of this meeting and the security of our guests. Standard protocols are in effect, the guards will do their duty with no mistake.Jarrow nods - Excellent. I will be leaving then.Jarrow and his bodyguards are leaving the room and are heading back to the Main Hall.
Back where James was left - the head steward steps to one side, extending his arm in the direction of the room, indicating James should go in. He bows.Her Majesty will be with you shortly. I hope you enjoy your day with us.With that, he turns, heading back to the front entrance. There he faces Jarrow.I hope what you had to do is already done, my lord?Jarrow stops and answers - Yes, everything is proceeding as planned. I take it Her Majesty choose this specific room for the meeting? A fine choice.
Jarrow enters the room and is heading where James was waiting. They both open a topic to discuss while waiting for the other guests and the Queen, who would declare the start of the meeting.
Charlotte walked up to the doors of the Palace. Her two escorts wearing parade dress stood side by side behind her. They wore dark blue berets, the colour of the 10th MacDuff. Their sabres reflected light as well as a mirror, their boots much the same. She expected the best of her Officers, and it seemed she had got the best today. She decided it would be beneficial for all if she didn't invite Miller. She figured that his humour would not be appreciated on such occasions.
The doors opened and the Steward stood there, with a small smile as Charlotte stepped inside. She told her escorts to wait for her in the Guard Room.
"A wonderful Palace, I must say." She added as she wandered into the meeting room. She noticed James had already arrived. A steward offered her a glass of champagne, she took hold of the glass and nodded in thanks to the man. Charlotte stood by one of the great windows, looking out onto the courtyard. She admired the Guards in their fine dress and immaculate drill, members of the public could be seen beyond the gates looking in at the Guards. She waited of the arrival of the other members of the Board. The thought of George made her uncomfortable. "What sort of nonsense will he come up with this time..." She sighed.
an heavily armored limousine escorted by several security vehicles arrived at the gates,
Andy looked out the tinted windows to see the redcoated bearfurred gaurds,
that shows the public that the palace is a safe place, the real gaurds are among the public,
Hidden, people who serve the crown under names as MI5 and six,
The limousine stops and the door is opened for me, I nod and walk up to the door where 2 gaurds
instinctively click their boots and salute as I walk by them, there I was, at the royal palace,
it was an impressive view, but I'm here for business, and perhaps later some pleasure.
"Good morning mister mac'Millan, Director of Bowex." said the person greeting everyone whom entered the palace,
Good morning to you aswell, I said kindly. he continued to talk,
I am Jason Dickins, head steward for Buckingham Palace. I will be your guide today, however any of the stewards positioned about the Palace will be able to assist you. The soldiers that are positioned around the place will also be able to call a steward for your guidance.
As we walk around the corner, into a hallway with several historical paintings of dead people.
he continued to talk about 'how to talk to the Queen and other family members'
Queen is your Majesty, prince's and princesses must be adressed with your royal high'ness's
then you get the dukes and lords and bla bla bla, this will be a long and dreadfull event I thought
when he finished talking.
we finally arrive at two large doors, which open when we get near. on the other side is a large, extravagant room. Paintings of past dead monarchs, and at the far end, a raised section with the throne place upon it. Around the room stand stewards and maids, holding glasses of Champaign on silver platters. The head steward steps to one side, extending his arm in the direction of the room, indicating you go in. He bows, as he earlier indicated "Her Majesty will be with you shortly. I hope you enjoy your day with us." he said and turns around to welcome more guests at this 'party'
Looking around I see a few well decorated 'lords' and an Armed forces lady, escorted by shiny decorated men with 'parade' uniforms
if I recall correctly, we'll see where this will go.
"Thanks Dickins...why don't you be a good lad and go fetch me a whisky...this champagne just won't do."
*Miles casually ignores the somewhat annoyed face of Dickins. enters through the door, and looks about the room. His eyes immediately jump to Bowex Director Mac'Millan. If he'd been allowed to bring a pistol, it's quite possible he'd have already drawn and shot, but seeing as he already had plenty of other axes to grind with these aristocratic toadies, he figured he'd settle that score where it belonged: out in space, in the cold blackness.
Then his eyes jumped over to Piett and Lord Jarrow. Hmm....
He spots Admiral Brooks over by the courtyard window.... HMM.....
"In the meanwhile" he thought as he straightened his tie and jacket, "best just to listen to what these sycophants have to say and then get back to business."
Ugh...it was going to be long night. Where was that Scotch?
A flashy white limousine came slowly down the long drive way where they reached the courtyard. It turned into a small roundabout and decelerated at a gradual pace, coming to a stop outside columns that seemed to stretch to the sky. The driver door opened and a man in a smart black suit and trousers, a crisp white shirt with black shoes walked steadily to the back door. He reached for the door handle and gracefully opened it, standing proud as he held the door open.
A young, beautiful women dipped her head and steadily moved out of the car. She caught the eyes of many men waiting outside the building as she stepped out. She tossed her hair in the air as she was tying to get out of it. New extensions had found their way into her hair whilst the beautiful blonde glistened in the light. There was very little makeup on her as it was not needed at all. A small, thin layer of foundation coated her face and eye liner around her eyes was all that was necessary. Her dress was a beautiful shade of mauve. There was not a single mark on it and it looked as though it had been ironed 5 minutes before she stepped out of the limousine. She wore 4 inch high heals that matched her dress.
She took a few steps forward to clear the door as the driver closed the door behind her without a single sound. He made his way back to the driver seat, passionately, where he took a seat and closed the door behind him. The limousine slowly took of as it moved out of the vicinity of Buckingham Palace.
The women brushed herself of and stood tall, scanning the building from top to bottom. Her heart started to race whilst she took in the scenery. She couldn't believe where she was. Catching the eye of somebody at the main entrance halland amde her way steadily towards the person.
Good morning Captain Pearson.
Heather bows her head as she greeted the steward.
I am Jason Dickins, head steward for Buckingham Palace. I will be your guide today, however any of the stewards positioned about the Palace will be able to assist you. The soldiers that are positioned around the place will also be able to call a steward for your guidance.
They turn a corner, headed to the south wing of the Palace
Before you meet Her Majesty, I must advise you on proper procedure when meeting Her Majesty the Queen.
As it is listed in the Neural Net page for The Bretonian Monarchy, men will do a short bow from the neck up, and women are expected to perform a small curtsy. Upon presentation to the Queen, the correct procedure is to open with Your Majesty, and to follow with ma'am.
If any male members of the royal family arrive, you are to open with Your Royal Highness, and to follow with Sir. Any additional members of the Royal Family that are not Queen Carina herself, you are to open with Your Royal Highness, and follow with Ma'am.
I hope I have not confused you with this. It can be quite a lot for some at first.
Heather, bewildered at the sight of the large, extravagant room, glanced over to Jason with an abrupt smile. "No, sir" she spoke in soft, quiet voice. The nerves could clearly be heard. With that, he turns, heading back to the front entrance. Heather takes a step into the room. The room was magnificent and majestic. It truly looked as though royalty were living here. Heather takes a deep breath as she tries to take everything in.
After scanning the room, she sees Admiral Brooks gazing out into the courtyard , though a window. She wonders over and places herself next to the Admiral. "Admiral" she softly smiles. "This is truly a spectacular place, isn't it?"
The honor was George's. The opportunity to meet the Queen in a high end dinner was a fantastic deal, hopefully he could pitch a few of the ideas that Darcey had handed to him, like an excited child that boy was. Exuberant that the Queen asked for George by name and rank. However, the look on his face when George had said that he was inviting his wife, Annabel, instead.
Admittedly, the two looked like a nice pair together. Upon emerging from their limousine, they examined each other. Annabel Collins, long standing wife of the lunatic that ran the most important company in Bretonia, saw her husband in the orange light of the setting sun, with his finely tuned suit, ginger hair and matching scruffy beard that grew somewhat characteristic of him. She smiled as she face the entrance of the palace.
To George, his wife looked as gorgeous as he had expected. In the late New London sun, her white dress was fitting, curvy and finished with a polite white, thin scarf that hung loosely around her shoulders and neck in a stylish form. Her dark brown eyes were masked over by her chestnut brown hair, done up in a traditional Bretonian way, with a modern taste to it. Her smile was filled with shining white teeth that laughed with George, regardless of his mood or joke quality.
After the extensive introduction, the two were finally admitted to the dining room. Extravagant in design and art, the room was an accurate representation to the Bretonian monarchy and their royal standing. They took to their seats and admired the scenery while they waited for her Majesty to enter.
Prime Minister Marcus Wright
_______________________________
Marcus trotted quickly up to the main doors, using one hand to hold a stack of papers and using the other to flick through them, his secretary followed closely holding out a pen. Pausing at the door he shuffled through a few of the papers, eventually selecting a few apparently at random, grabbed the proffered pen and hurriedly signed them before handing the pen and papers back to the secretary, who turned around and headed back the way they'd come. Holding the remaining untouched papers he looked around as though searching for a place to secure them before giving a resigned sigh and shoving them into his pocket. The whole process had been observed by an agent, Cynthia Payne, in what Marcus could only assume was quiet amusement.
He took a moment to compose his somewhat rushed appearance in an attempt to regain the dignified entrance he'd predicted this morning. His predictions did not allow for some nameless Lord to call him into an emergency meeting for what turned out to be for a Preservation Society bent on preserving some rubbish or another. He'd yelled the man out of office and spent the rest of the day trying to catch up on his workload, which had resulted in several unfinished papers being stuffed into his jacket.
Entering the palace he was meet by Dickens, a man he'd meet several times, who non the less seemed determined to complete his introduction to the palace regardless. Marcus ambled along after the steward doing his best to mentally tune the man out. Eventually arriving at the room he found several people already present, including he noticed several bodyguards following each of the Pietts. Marcus looked towards Major Payne, his sole protection for this evening, and gave a small mental prayer for protection against the paranoia of the military. Bracing himself, he stepped forth.
Having been the first to arrive at the palace, the Pietts had had ample time to discuss the war, their respective social life's, and even what dinner might be tonight. However, as Charlotte entered, James immediately perked up at the sight of his old friend. Walking towards her, indicating his father follow, he lightly tapped her on the shoulder
Charlotte. Fancy seeing you at a place like this. Dad, I'm sure you see Charlotte quite often. Did you know it's the same girl I.. uh.. went to school with? I think it's fair to say Bretonia couldn't do finer?
He winks at her, allowing the two to speak.
After guiding the Gateway CEO, Miles Stuart, round to the reception area, an annoyed Dickins speaks quickly to one of the stewards before leaving. Within minutes, he would bring the requested whiskey to Miles, leaving Jason to get on with his more.. pressing duties.
Meanwhile, in the streets of New London, a black car pulls into the outer courtyard of Buckingham Palace. On one side of the bonnet, is a small Bretonian flag. On the other, a small flag with the mark of the Admiralty. It pulls into the central courtyard, and out steps Fleet Admiral Michelle O'Brian. Clearly having decided to forego the military dress uniform, and present a little glamour to the proceedings. As she steps up into the entrance hall, she greets Dickins, and goes through the same introduction talk. She thanks him for the refresher, and enters the reception area. Quickly scanning teh room, she decides who she speaks to, and in what order. Making her way to Miles Stuart first.
Miles. How lovely to see you. I just wanted to pop over and thank you for the docking bay upgrades Gateway was able to assist us with. They have worked tremendously so far. Enjoy your afternoon.
A small peck on the cheek, before she heads next to George, the BMM Director.
George. Just a quick message to pass on. Just give my thanks to your engineers. The vessels we have been receiving, and the repairs they have undergone, are excellent. I've never had happier officers. Good work.
She pecks him on the cheek, then his wife, wishing them well, before making her way to Andy, the Bowex DoO
Andy. I just wanted to thank you for the work your company has done bringing in supplies for our vessels. Keep up the good work. If you need any escort assitance, I'll see about diverting a wing for your assistance. We can't fight a war without the proper resources. I'm just ensuring I pass on all the messages I have, so I'll make sure to catch up with you later
A kiss on the cheek, then she moves on, heading for Captain Pearson
Forgive me Lord Jarrow, Admiral Brooks. I'd like to borrow Captain Pearson for a second.
She curtsies gracefully, moving to one side with Heather. She smiles knowingly
I think your idea to mix this up with a little grace is going well. Good call. Just remember, between us, we represent the New London Fleet here today. Mingle, laugh at the not so funny jokes, and enjoy yourself. It's not often we get invited to this, so I can only assume it's important. When Carina arrives, stick to me. You'll be introduced with me, and we'll have to spend some time moving between people together. Until then, get to know some of the people around here.
She gently claps Pearson on the shoulder, before moving towards Marcus
Prime Minister
She curtsies
I see you have alot of work on your hands now. I hope it isn't all too much? You wouldn't happen to know what this is about either would you? Everyone I know who's invited, has no idea whats going on here today... Very odd.
She looks at the time
I guess we'll find out in due course.
She takes a glass of champagne, thanking the steward, before taking a sip.
Rheinland ambassador stepped up the stairs leading to the palace's main door. It wasn't his first visit to Buckingham, and old experienced member of diplomatic service knew its general layout in the wing for official visits. What was worrying him however, was "special annoucement" mentioned in invitation.
New London smog made it increasibly harder to breathe on the planet, but cloudseeding above governmental district as always brought refreshing rain, which washed away smoke and dust from the air, making it easier to breathe. Ambassador's servant was following him with umbrella protecting Rheinlandic figure against dirty drops.
"Jason Dickins, the head steward. On Her Majesty's behalf I wish to welcome you, Ambassador."
Rheinlander nodded to Dickins with dignity, while he shook his hand.
"Please introduce me to the party, Mr. Dickins." - ambassador's accent was only slightly heard in his words.