Ellington entered Alice's quarters after checking in with the guards. "Princess. Good to see you're awake." "Commander. I didn't expect to see you this early. What brings you here?" replied Alice, as she was looking at herself in a mirror. "I've accepted an invitation for you. You're going to meet Queen Carina herself."
Alice froze for a split second, staring at Ellington. "I'm sorry, what did you-" "You have an hour to prep yourself. I'll see you on the bridge." said Ellington, as she turned back and opened the door. "Hey I have a say in that you know." "You would have accepted anyway." replied Ellington with perceivable humor as she closed the door, leaving Alice's quarters.
Alice sighed, starting at herself in the mirror yet again. "Pour l'amour du ciel, I have a feeling this is not going to end well."
Planet New London, Buckingham Palace
The Normandie battleship arrived in orbit of New London. A few minutes later, a dropship bearing the Liberty Navy's colors undocked, heading for the docking rings. Making its way through the clouds, the dropship finally approached Buckingham Palace and landed next to the front gates. As the rear hatch opened and slowly made its way to the ground, the first thing to come out of the beast was a squad of soldiers armed to the teeth inspecting their surroundings. Moments later, Catherine Ellington, a Liberty Navy Commander made her way to the front gate, followed by Alice DeFrance. Surrounded by soldiers in formation, the two women walked up the stairs and entered the palace.
The guests waiting in the hall had most likely noticed the newcomers by now. As the soldiers splitted in smaller groups, including the Commander, the crowd could have sight on Alice DeFrance, wearing a half silk half dentelle black dress. The presence of a member of the Gallic Royalty, right in the deep heart of Bretonia, echoed through the sound of her high heels at each step she made.
The Princess greeted Dickins and listened to his speech on their way to the reception room. She offered him a simple nod as he headed back to the front entrance, leaving a stranded Gallic Princess in Bretonian waters.
Jarrow was initiating a small talk with Charlotte and James when suddenly was approached by one of his guards. The guard lowered his head and whispered – “Princess DeFrance and her regiment have landed and are about to be here in a moment.” Jarrow nodded and turned at James – “Son, I am leaving you with Miss Charlotte for I have to greet an important guest.“ With these words he moved away and headed to the prime minister’s location. “Prime Minister, princess DeFrance will be here shortly, I thought it would be appropriate if we both are the first to send her our regards and welcome her in the Queen’s Palace.” Wright nodded in respond and they both moved close to the entrance of the room.
Princess DeFrance enters the room, followed by her soldiers which splitted into small groups. Jarrow was observing their movements. If these troops were not part of the liberty navy, he would never allow them to be present in these numbers. After all there was no place for doubt between Bretonia and Liberty relations so he turned his gaze back upon the princess. “Princess Alice DeFrance, In behalf of Bretonia I welcome you in Her Majesty’s Palace. I understand you might feel a bit uncomfortable but nevertheless I hope your visit here will be pleasant enough. The safety of our guests is a priority and all security measures have been taken. I assure you there is nothing to worry about. Now, let me introduce you to Bretonia Prime Minister Marcus Wright.” Jarrow bowed and left Wright to talk back to the princess.
Captain: We have achieved a stable geosynchronous orbit around New London, Secretary Worthington. The Brettonian's have granted you landing rights at Buckingham Palace.
Worthington: Thank you Captain. As always it was a pleasure to be in the capable hands of the Liberty Navy. The voyage was excellent. You and your crew are to be commended for the extremely comfortable journey. I trust the rest of my party was no trouble?
Captain: With the exception of that incident with that drunk midget dancing on the tables it was a pleasure to have you all aboard sir.
Worthington: Ah yes that was my wife's nephew, Tyran. Despite his love of wine and his obvious deformities he can be a very shrewd diplomatic operator and I've come to rely on him as an advisor. I trust I can count on your discretion about his behavior.
Captain: Of course sir. Your private yacht, the Cicero, is being prepped in the docking bay now for the descent into New London and your security detail has already embarked. It would be my honor to escort you there sir.
Worthington: The honour is mine Captain. Lead on.
...
The Cicero undocks from the Liberty Assault Carrier along with a heavy escort. During the descent Secretary Worthington meets privately with his vertically challenged advisor, Tyran.
...
Tyran: You asked to see me Secretary?
Worthington: Yes sit down. This purpose of this little trip remain a complete mystery to us. We are walking into a situation of possible great importance without any foreknowledge. The LSF though offering several legitimate theories they have gathered no firm evidence. However, Unproven theories or not the potential threats to the Republic of Liberty and her interests are staggering . The Brettonian's calling together the Representatives of the Great Houses of Sirius without informing the government of Liberty of the reason why has us concerned.
Tyran: I understand the concern. The Kingdom of Brettonia is a crucial to the stability of Sirius. Our relations with the Brettonian's have historically been very good. They have always been our closest ally but the Kingdom is under siege by the Gauls and Leeds is all but conquered. Though they are successfully defending New London their military might has been greatly diminished. Farfetched as the idea might be, We have to consider the possibility they have come to some sort of agreement with the Gauls. If this unlikely event were to occur the ramifications would be devastating to Liberty. The balance of power in this quadrant would be dramatically altered. We could very well find ourselves beset by enemies on all sides which would be an invitation to disaster.
Worthington: Unfortunately, that's precisely what we are afraid of. I truly hope our Brettonian allies would never betray us in this way and my gut instinct tells me they wouldn't but we must be prepared none the less. However, Other theories are much more positive about this upcoming statement so don't focus too much on that particular. Who knows we might be seeing the beginning of a drive to beat back the Gallia scourge. Only time will tell.
When we land I want you to find out everything you can from the entourages of the other delegates. Information is vital at this moment. Pay particular attention to any rumors about Princess DeFrance. As the Princess is under our protection it would make the Republic of Liberty look very bad if she was injured or god forbid killed. Report back to me with any information you discover.
Tyran: Very well sir. Seems we are about to land.
...................
Buckingham Palace, Planet New London, Kingdom of Brettonia
....................
Worthington disembarks from the Cicero and strides up towards the gate with his wife. Jason Dickins, the head steward approaches and greats Secretary Worthington.
Dickins: "On Her Majesty's behalf I wish to welcome you and your beautiful wife Secretary. "
Worthington: Thank you, It is of course a pleasure to be invited by Her Majesty to her beautiful home. Could you please get my wife a glass of Champagne? I'll take a whiskey sour.
Worthington continues past Dickins with his wife in tow, "Come dear let's head into the reception and find out what this trip is all about."
They walk through the double doors into the room within.
_______________________________ Prime Minister Marcus Wright
Marcus ambled around the room talking quietly with everyone, often answering the same question to anyone he met. No he didn't know what this was about, yes it was curious that even the Prime Minister wasn't aware, no I really don't know what this is about. After a brief circuit of the room Lord Jarrow approached him and maneuvered him towards the entrance. He waited patiently for Jarrow to finish introductions, then found himself suddenly alone as his lordship vanished from his side. A little at a loss for conversation he rocked absentmindedly on his feet. "Er, well it's nice to meet you. Good of you to be able to make it, can never have too much royalty in the palace eh?"
_______________________________ Lady Kensignton, BPA Chief of Investigations
Walking into the room, guest in tow, it was clear that most of the guests had already arrived. She'd have rather not attended but the opportunity to mingle with the varies dignities provided too much of a good chance to observe and establish a few contacts with those she otherwise would not engage with. She decided to stand back and obeserve the room for a moment, watching the representatives from Bowex and Gateway interact with each other was always amusing, the antics of their employees was a constant source of interest for the BPA. Not to mention the Piett's parading around, security following, every bit the paranoid officers.
Dickins quickly found a steward to care or the Ambassador from Rheinland.
Leaving the steward to point out who each of the guests where, he returned to the front entrance in time for the Gallic Princess' arrival. He explained everything, as instructed, then hesitated before he left
Princess Alice. Lord Jarrow and Fleet Admiral O'Brian are around if you require their assistance. I understand being here may be difficult for you, but Her Majesty's protection extends to you. Any hair harmed, is an assault on Her Majesty the Queen herself. Ask one of the gentlemen situated about the room if you require any assistance. Enjoy your stay.
He made a short bow before returning to the entrance once more to greet Sam Worthington, the representative for Liberty. Quickly assigning a steward to assist the couple, he then moves back to the front doors. Checking the time, it is almost 11. He closes the doors, notifying the guards at the main gates to lock them.
He turns on his heel, heading off towards the reception area again, but turning off to the side. He approaches a room. The ornate, wooden double doors stand before him. He knocks, waiting a second for a guard to open the door.
Your Majesty.
He makes a short bow
Your guests have arrived and are in the reception room.
Thank you Dickins. You may announce my arrival now.
He makes a short bow, followed with a "Yes Ma'am", then moves through a door to the side of the room, leading straight to the reception room. He moves to the front of the throne, clearing his throat. He gains the attention of a few people, and silence fills the room.
Ladies and gentlemen. It is my honour to present to you Her Royal and Imperial Majesty, Queen of the House of Bretonia, Carina the First.
The double doors open for the last time. An assortment of specially chosen Soldiers and Intelligence Agents filing through to make way to the throne. Carina enters, moving gracefully to the front of the room, to her throne. She moves slowly, showing her influence in the proceedings subliminally. As she reaches the front, she rises to the throne, sitting slowly into the high backed masterpiece.
To my loyal Bretonian subjects, and friends to our great house. I thank you, one and all, for attending tea with me on this fine day. Some of you may wonder why you are here, and all of you are unaware of your involvement in the proceedings of this meeting. Know that I have invited you here, because each and every one of you is important to Bretonia, and to me. Your involvement with Bretonia, be it through military might, or economical stability, or even support in the darkest of times. Know that none of it has gone unnoticed, and I commend each of you for your work and support over the years.
She pauses, looking at each of the guests and their company.
I did not gather you here today to speak of the war, not on this scale. I have an announcement for the future of Bretonia that will lead us into a new, stronger age.
Bretonia is with a strong leadership at this time. We have a strong government to lead us, an unflinching military, an unrelenting police force, and a knowledgeable intelligence service. Without these, I would fear for the safety of my people. However, times change, and so do the situations we find ourselves in. Just like the Kings and Queens of Bretonia before me, I will be succeeded. I have no children, thus no obvious heir. This cannot continue.
Another pause, looking towards Firmus and James
James Frederick Albert William Piett, step forward.
The young man looks confused. He steps forward, bowing, adding a quick "Your Majesty?"
James Frederick Albert William Piett. I have been watching you and your actions. You have grown as a man. You still have a way to go, but I am pleased with your progress.
It is my decision that you should become my successor. You mother, as my cousin, has provided you with the blood of the royalty, making you a perfect candidate. I, Queen Carina the First, Monarch of the Kingdom of Bretonia, bestow upon you, James Frederick Albert William Piett, the title of Prince of Bretonia. You will become my heir, and when the time comes, will gain the responsibility of guiding our great house to even greater times.
James' mouth opens. He looks around, confused at first, then realising it is truly him. Dickins invites him over to Carina's side. He stands, dumbfounded, looking at the people waiting expectantly.
I... I uh...
He stops, taking a deep breath to compose himself, before looking out to the crowd. With a small smile, he speaks
Thank you, your majesty. It is my honour to receive such a high commendation from you. I graciously accept your offer, and pledge to do my best, for Bretonia, and our people.
He bows, still looking a little confused. There is a round of applause from the crowd. As it dies down, Carina speaks once more.
To my guests, I invite you to dine with me. I will speak to a few, individually, momentarily.
She stands, moving to the banquet room. The guards allow her in, before moving to allow the other guests to follow behind her.
_______________________________ Prime Minister Marcus Wright
Marcus was the first to react, sweeping in he placed one hand on Jame's shoulder and with the other grabbed his hand and pumped it enthusiastically.
"Congratulations! I'm sure you'll do a fine job, you don't need to worry, that's what us PM's are for. Besides, you know, the whole being an example for an entire nation thing.'"
Charlotte, who stood with the Fleet Admiral, was not really into the fancy side of being an Admiral. The thought of having to drink champagne was enough to send her dizzy. When the Queen entered the room she snapped to attention with the other Admirals and Commodores and then sprung into a sharp salute.
When James was called up she perked up, and began listening intently to her Queen. As he stood and turned around, their eyes locked. Charlotte's face leaped into a smile. She waited for him to return to the main group, she didn't want to congratulate him in front of such a large group of people. Especially with the friendship they both shared.
"The Queen must be ready to pass on, George." Annabel whispered, gossip in her tone.
"Perhaps so, Anna, but we must remember she is doing so to protect us, her people. She cannot remain the image of a strong Empire if she herself is a frail woman." George took a sip of his champagne, glancing at the youthful Officer of the Armed Forces.
"If you really want gossip, though, look at the Admiral Charlotte over there." George indicated with a nod of his head at the smiling young woman "Wouldn't you think they'd make a nice pair? A strong, youthful, female Admiral and the new Prince of Bretonia?" George smiled and rolled his eyes. "Your scandalous actions are somewhat infectious, Annabel."
Anna smiled too, glancing down to her lap then back to George's soft face.
"I guess so." she giggled as she shot a gaze towards the Bowex Director, Andy Mc'Millan. "Look," she whispered "there's Andy. Think he'd enjoy the presence of the Gateway CEO here?" She giggled flirtatiously, sipping her drink. The polite joke was a pleasantry to George, but it took a mere few moments before the possible reality of a brawl between the Bowex and Gateway CEOs dawned on him.
"Keep an eye on those two." He whispered in return, knowing what the two could be like, given the right circumstances.
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