Diplomats Rising (Keldon Please)

[Archalen Andares]

Mid-Brightening, 24th Immanis, Spring Era II of the Celestine Mandate, E XIV Post Fractum.

So the time for the mainstay and reason of the journey had finally arrived. Three pairs of feet total walked due south from the Southern Gates of Ruined Paxia towards their destination, the feet almost falling in at the same time. Here was Thane Archalen Esgalvith, his bodyguard Christos, and as well the aspiring diplomat/messenger Turnis. The Two Esh'lahiers and the human Christos had departed Paxia to speak with the Surveyor General Keldon Elsdragon, the man charged with many tasks. The Agenda today; Economic recovery if not only for Paxia but for Imperia as well.

Archalen walked on point, dressed in a stunning robe of black and white, small semi-precious stones dotting his sleeves in intricate and complex patterns. His sandals were rough leather padded with velvet. Christos remained in his light chain mail, an archaic throwback to the days of the Old Sly Confederacy. It would of course, still stop blades. Turnis carried the Imperian Standard straight and proud, and the Esh'lahier wore a red cloak with gold pants and shirt underneath which were the very colors of the Sultanate.

The Three saw the smoke rise before they caught sight of the Legion Encampment walls. Archalen was not impressed nor in awe at the sight of the place. After all, Imperia had an encampment of Legion Solider and Marines. The three came toward the gate and were stopped. Upon the request of stating their business, Turnis announced; "His Lordship, Thane Esgalvith from Imperia; Capital of the Sultanate of Arkamat." Christos for his part only looked into the gates with a sense of memory and deja vu, for he had been a Legions man for many years himself in an outpost not unlike this one. He snapped out of his memories however by the monotone voice of Turnis. "He comes to seek audience with Surveyor General Elsdragon."

The three waited, as they were unsure if they would be permitted entry because of lack of an appointment. Without a doubt, the man they sought was a very busy man indeed.

[Keldon Elsdragon]

When Archalen arrived and stated his business the gate guard shrugged slightly, he really didn't care who came to visit the General, however he had been instructed anyone who wishes to seem him be escorted to his office. "Your escorts will need to stay here," he said looking to the armed man. "Atleast he will, no outside weapons enter the compound." the man said swiftly. "Or he surrenders the weapons and then he can enter," he said again and after all that was sorted out a younger man would be called forth to escort them into the compound.

The private that escorted them would remain silent the entire way and would stop them outside the large tent with the red flag of the Ministry of War draped outside of it. After going inside the private would exit and hold open the tent. "Provost Elsdragon will see you," he would said with an adolescence voice.

When entering there were long tables in the far side of the large tent that were out of view, however one could see they were mainly maps and other documents of the sort. Keldon was sitting behind a desk that was lined with charts, maps of the area, sea levels or atleast what they knew of them and resource charts. He rose when the three entered and nodded his head. "Serale, I am Provost Elsdragon, what is it I can do for you this brightening?" he said with a smile.

[Archalen Andares]

Having surrendered his weapons, Christos didn't fault the gate gaurd. It was unlikely that a bodyguard even need to be retained here, but the Thanes orders would be followed. Archalen nodded to the man, not saying a word. After all, no words were really needed and in the back of his mind was what he would say to Keldon Elsdragon. And so the three went in, Turnis still carrying the flag and banner of Imperia behind Archalen. They looked around the outpost as the made their way through the tent city and the Thane was impressed by the level of organization he saw. Truly, it was extraordinary in his eyes.

When the reached the tent with the red flag of the Ministry of War on it, Christos stood near the entrance with his back towards the tent, watching and waiting. if the Aide who escorted back here was the talkative type, Christos would engage in small talk, reminiscing of his old glorious Legion days. It truly warmed the old soliders heart to be here now. Turnis, for is part stood on the side oppsite Christos and looked straight ahead while he attempted to plant the standard. Having done so, or at least as much as the earth below would allow he turned smartly, and followed his Thane inside.

Archalen walked in, bowing a short bow to the Provst. "Greetings Provst Elsdragon. May I say......you run a very tight outfit here I see." That wasn't neccesarily true, for Archalen having not been a Legion man didnt know what that would even consist of. But all the same, he did think the outpost wonderfully put together. At least he felt secure here, which could not be said of many places. Grinning, he continued. "I won't waste your valuble time Provst Elsdragon, as I'm quite sure you're a .....busy man. I come to see how Imperia can aide the city of Paxia, and its...people. Not only that....but I came to see how Imperia could also serve its....armed forces." Archalen took off his black gloves, removing them delicately and handing them to Turnis who stood behind him with the messenger bag. He was hoping for success in this moment, hoping that the Surveyor General in Provst was a man who appreciated noble ideas and aspirations. Hoping, that Archalen was right to persue this course to strengthen Imperia and its Empires ties. And not least of all, hoping that Paxia, the real people and not spies, could benefit.

[Keldon Elsdragon]

Keldon nodded with a smile, "Please take a seat, and pull it up." he said with a brief laugh pointing the thane to the chair sitting infront of his desk and the second chair closer to the other table for his guest. "What you offer is a noble intention, however I need to rebuild a city and make it defendable. So if you have come to trade jewels and furs to help the city I can not assist you from my office, although you could speak to the local Aedile. However if you have building materials or anything of the sorts to offer then, I am listening your grace." Keldon said adding the Thanes title to his words out of respect towards the man.

[Archalen Andares]

Archalen offered thanks for the chair and instructed his sometimes aide Turnis to sit. Clasping his hands and sitting straight in the chair he smiled to Provst Elsdragon. "Indeed...the items I have here should be of some use to Paxia." Archalen gesutred to Turnis, who opened the leather messenger bag and took out a piece of paper. He stood, bowed deeply, and handed the paper to Provst Elsdragon to look over. The paper consisted of a blue print for the conceptual Imperian Forge.

Secrets : Blueprint Drawing

"Provst Elsdragon, I have been in talks with His Most Exhalted Excellecny, the Regent Milo L'Evienne, to have built in Imperia a grand project, one that....stretches the limits of both opportunity and possibility." Archalen leaned forward, gesturing with his hands widely as he did so. "I will be frank sir, I am seeking to provide a great service both for the Empire and Paxia. With the threat of N'danosh to the west and the recent attacks..here in Paxia, you more then most know that defense is needed here. This forge, this Dream of Imperia...that we seek to build there, will help the Empire and Imperia greatly. Imagine a place...where nothing but the best weaponry is forged and prepared, items essential to the defense of the realm."

Archalen smiled broadly.

"We seek to build a forge unlike any other, to provide all the weaponry and distribute it from Imperia. This is essential for the defense of N'danosh...should things ever come to war. Also....having an exclusive contract for the weaponry of the Empire would do well...to be based in Imperia. We will develop jobs for Imperians, strength the northern markets, have a...central place for inspectors and Surveyors to inspect the weapons...and most of all a stable price for the purchase of said defenses."

The industry alone would help Imperia greatly the Thane knew.

"Now, to be concerned of Paxia we are greatly. I need a market before commiting the resources of this venture. Paxia seems to be in great need of steel and sharp edges...so I thought perhaps our two neighbooring port cities may be of service to each other."

"I am ready, and Imperians are ready...to initilize and begin trade with our two respected cities. Tell me sir, what do you think on the matter?"

There was little doubt that there was much to be gained, and so very little to be lost. It was most important they had people to trade and sell weapons to before proceeding. He wanted to help Imperia, but not only that help Paxia. It was the co-operation of cities and its people that gave the Empire its strength. Arcahlen waited eagerly to hear what the respected Provst had to say about the affair. Being a military man, Archalen hoped he could see the inherited good things about the plan.

"Economy, industry, trade, restoration and security combined into one concept."

[Keldon Elsdragon]

Keldon nodded his head briefly looking of the plans. "Indeed, however Lord Thane I am far but able to be even close to being able to supply weapons. We are already supplied with weapons from the Imperial Stores which if I recall from my tenure in Primus Gaudeo are supplied mainly from the smith's there and in the capital. However unfortunately I have no use for weapon's at this time, I need to build a city to be able to arm it. As at the moment all of my troops are armed and well at that, although your plans look sound and suggesting it to the Regent would be a grand idea. Perhaps you should have the structure built and in motion before you attempt to take on such a large contract. Show me," Keldon paused briefly as he was aware such a contract would likely pass through his hand unless the Regent himself signed off on it. "show the military that the forge is capable of producing that much weaponry. As if a war comes up your forge would not stop working." he paused clearing some papers off his table into a stack on the side.

"However your grace, it is not likely you will be able to become the sole producer for the empire's weapons. As from a military stand point it would make no sense what so ever to have all the arms for your forces produced in one location as it would make that location a prime target for attack to hinder supplies to the remainder of the armies. As thane I am sure you understand the chaos that could lead to, which is not something I would want on any city. But a prime source of weaponry would be more likely." Keldon said with a re-assuring nod looking to the two. "I would offer you something to drink but supplies are short on fine drinks and I only have some small amount of brandy." he said with a smile.

[Archalen Andares]

Archalen nodded with a look of some determination and understanding. The Thane did not fault the man for his words, however disappointing they were, because truly he understood the Provst hesitation and lack of need at this point. However, the city of Paxia, once re-built and well would need weaponry. It would need weaponry to sell to its citizens, to equip for its guard and local militias. Not to mention that should (Ioannes forbid it) another orcish attack break out here, hard steel of superior quality would be needed. Archalen brought these points up respectfully to Provst Elsdragon.

Having said those things, Archalen turned around and looking towards Turnis nodded. The messenger bag contained another plan, another blueprint as it was. What Turnis returned out of the bag was a small sword, or half of one anyways. Archalen quickly looked to the Surveyor General before the item was fully take out of the bag. "I did heed the guards words...that no weapons be brought in. Here we have a sword..one whose handle is not finished and whose blade not sharpened. It is no weapon yet...." The disclaimer said Archalen turned and gently took the sword and then lowered his head a bit handing it toward the Provst handle first.

Archalen had previously the smiths of the Imperial Forge, the existing one, put their best efforts in producing this masterpiece sword. The blade was both hard and light, the balance superb, and its grace and durability unmatched. The smiths who wrought it were well compensated of course, having but their absolute best work into it. Truly, it was something to behold. And once its edge put to a sharpening wheel its blade would have more bite then any orcs maul.

"This blade is but a sample, a token if you will.....of the quality the forge will provide. It is a gift from the city of Imperia, to its allies both Imperial and Paxian. This sword...unfinished like Paxia, symbolizes the inherent strength that paxia posses. For after Paxia....passes the forge and fire that is rebuilding......it shall become as strong as this blade, and last just as long."

Archalen let the military man examine the item. There was no doubt to Archalen the man before him most likely handled many blades in his life. The unfinished steel and metal alloy that was the sword would prove, most likely, to be one of the better quality he possesed. Moving on, the Thane had a lot of items and ideas to cover. "I see your logic in building first, and then attaining contracts....but this I cannot do. Say I were to build the project....committing various resources of man power....crowns...and material only to find that once completed, there is now business to be held."

Archalen looked sad at even entertaining this idea, but still remained non plussed.

"That is a mistake I cannot make Sir. But....." The Thane contemplated. The forge plans, if realized, could potential help Paxia out in more ways then just weapons. Steel and Iron would be needed, for blades. Wood needed, for weapon hilting and scabbard making. Stone and Ore, needed to build the forge and protect it. And water, to control it all. The thane looked toward the floor in thought for a second. "Provst Elsdragon, the construction of the forge itself......would consume and require many materials. Some of which including stone, iron, copper, steel, wood, and tools of every kind. " he looked to Provst Elsdragon with a small grin.

"Im sure that if the assurance that in the future, if Paxians were to be supplied largely from its neighboor Imperia in the matter of weaponry.....that I could indeed supply here and now.....a good amount of Stone, Iron, Copper, Wood, and building tools." The thane nodded, as if affirming something for himself.

It was true, Paxia needed it and this way both parties got what they needed. Archalen would have reason and assurance that the Forge would be used after being built and Paxia would recieve some goods, basics blocks of rebuilding, that it needed. And not only, this would revive some of Paxia's economy. The Thane brushed a small piece of lint off his left arm, before looking back at the respected ministry man.

"What do you think of this.....proposition Provst Elsdragon?"

[Keldon Elsdragon]

Keldon looked at the sword and then to Archalen thinking about the proposal. "So, then the city will be paying for the construction and labor of the forge. The only thing you are looking for is a guarantee for the contract to be the sole producer of the legions weapons?" he asked looking to the man.

[Archalen Andares]

Archalen lowered his eyes somewhat, considering greatly his next words. Didn't they understand? How much this deal could help not only Paxia, not only Imperia, but the Empire as a whole? The good Surveyor Generals words screamed doubt, at least in the mind of the Pale Elf. He understood, it was a serious undertaking for them all one ripe with both moderate risk and infinite rewards. Or perhaps the man before him didn't doubt or disapprove? It was hard to tell, admittedly. A instance of unspoken silence passed by much like a breeze off the ocean slowly wafting through the air.

Archalens eyes rose slowly, hestitantly and locked with the Provst. "My sir, all construction matters would be taken on by Imperia....a gesture of will and good token as it were." Archalen chuckled at the thought of being the Legions sole provider of weapons. He was young, and still very naive in some matters for he had actually thought the deal be possible. But he had a strentgh called perspective and mind of logic and saw the risks involved in that regard. He spoke slowly, softly. "I understand that perhaps being the sole producer is.....not the best deal for the Empire. I can understand the risks involved there, with only one source of weaponry it would be....disasterous should that be denied through any means." The Esh'lahier folded his hands in his laps. "The details of the forge...as you can see in the blueprint here.." gestures toward the paper "can craft, scabbard, sharpen, and store many weapons per brightening. With Imperia being both a port city, as well as having a....fledging trade route set up within the sultanate and outside..I believe that the Forge,....once fully operational could indeed provide most of the Empires needs. We have room for 40 Blacksmiths at work.....12 scabbard makers....10 wood crafter and 8 to 10 hands that could sharpen, pack and load for distribution. The Imperian Trade Depot would handle distribution, however I am prepared to create and fund.....a dedicated system for distrubtuion should it prove needed. Both on the ground...and on sea."

The Forge was reflected in itself to its city. Ambitious, progressive, and serving its Empire first the project was a mirror toward the new mindset of the city. The mindset that all things are possible, that improvement can always be had.

[Keldon Elsdragon]

Pondering for a moment Keldon reached into his desk and pulled out three pieces of paper, if Archalen knew the insignia of the Imperial Navy he would see the general design of it in reverse through the paper, although he would not be able to make out the writing. Setting the documents face side down on the table in the corner closest to Keldons right side he looked back to Archalen. "Your project is ambitious and commendable, however you also need to remember the forge would be located in the western boards of the empire. Should we ever goto war with the Xet we would be faced with a tactical disadvantage that they could exploit with catastrophic effects..." he said but raised his hand to cut the man off should he try to speak.

"That being said, I will give you by the third month of summer to be half way complete with construction of the forge. If it can take thirteen months to rebuild most of a city then it should not take to long to construct the forge. I will have twenty, to thirty imperial legionnaires attached to the forge as guards during he construction as the forge will be considered an imperial asset so it will be protected like one." he said with a brief nod. "Which I hope you understand, as for transportation you will not need to arrange any. Once production begins arrangements will be made for Imperial Transports to bring the arms to the desired location by sea, however for land based transportation in the general area will be the forge's mandate to establish." Keldon said with a pause pondering the next statement.

"You, or those who you appoint have three cycles to present to me a required budget for the arms by month. Which will be reviewed and the scope of desired material ordered and signed off on. I will state this clearly now there is no chance I will, or any official will authorize the forge to become to sole, or primary provider of the imperial arms currently. Finally you have until... the end of the month for your smiths to provide me with 5 longsword and scabbards that would be produced for the general soldier, and 5 longsword and scabbards of exceptional quality which would be given to our officers. This will also be the final factor in deciding the sheer amount of volume this office will expect to come to from the forge. Does this sound reasonable to you?" he asked, he was someone who could negotiate but he wasn't going to spend millions on the forge yet.

[Archalen Andares]

The Thane grinned. To resist was impossible, to deny the satisfaction that came simply unimaginable. After weeks of planning it came to a head, and a chance to significantly improve Imperias status here at last. Of course, there were challenges left, as detailed by the Provst. As soon as the Surveyor General started out his conditions, Archalens gray fingers snapped and Turnis took out paper and quill and began to write.

The short time period with which to construct the forge was far from appealing. The third month this summer? he thought. The start of summer was near upon them, and the land had not even been cleared yet for construction. To do this, to achieve this feat and mastery of time would require the expenditure of many resources. A bigger construction group, faster acquisition of materials, and crowns. Oh yes, crowns would have to be both stretched and applied liberally to achieve the time frame. Archalen briefly wondered what the rush was, but was just glad to have had a positive response to the situation.

The guards were a nice addition to the deal, and one truly appreciated. However Archalen was not so gullible to believe that they would merely be watching against thieves and saboteurs. They were likely going to report to Provst Elsdragon on the status and such of the whole ordeal. Which was fine, for everything here was open much like a book of futures. At least the Thane could rest peacefully knowing that the asset would be protected agianst the criminal gangs of Imperia. Which undoubtedly had a hand in the drawing blueprint that called for thick walls, deep reinforced ground to deter sappers and the like, and choke points within. This was to truly be a fortress of arms and a symbol of Imperia. Strong, unbreakable, progressive.

The budget and the sample arms were of course not surprising. Both being needed before the deal finally closed. One thing was sure, Archalen would have both done to the harshest scrutinies and qualities. Flawless both in strength and finesse, and he knew exactly the two who were to craft these blades. With Turnis finally finishing on his notepad with the requirements Archalen nodded to himself. Yes, it was coming together and with it, employment and status for Imperia. His arachnid arms splayed out widely and he bowed his head. He looked back up to the Surveyor General.

"It can be done."

[Keldon Elsdragon]

Leaning backing into his chair now relieved the situation had been atleast dealt with for the major part he decided to extend a little more leeway since he had imposed some rather strict guidelines. "Do you require manual workers? The legion nearby can spare several men, perhaps fifty or so that can preform work on the forge aswel as provide additional security to the forces there." he asked, and then raised his brow. "Tell me, if you are to be a city making weapons do you even know how to wield one?" he said with a wide smirk and then looked waiting for an answer to both.

[Archalen Andares]

Manual workers? Archalen thought over this but knew the answer before he considered it. All the people he could employ locally, he would. He doubted there would be need for extra labor to construct the mammoth structure. After all, many were unemployed despite the cities best efforts to find them stable work. And of course, the government could not be blamed for factors such as laziness and bad ethic. But Alas, everything would be seen to in oder to make sure Imperians were employed and helped build their own future. In the far eras ahead, in the days of the Forges success and revitalization of the economies and assured defense of the city and empire; one could tell their clan that they had a hand in building the productive icon that was the forge.

The workers had to start owning their future, owning their means of success. And sure enough, hard work and determination in their efforts were the first steps there.

But of course, this Pale Elf was one who on occasion could be kind. And with that he crossed his legs casually looking to the Provst. "I believe that as far as manual labor is concerned.......we should be able to handle most work needed..despite the time frames given. We Imperians have a large...labor pool to draw from unfortunately." That was a fact, a disappointing one but honest none the less.

"Of course, Provst Elsdragon. I am not....against hiring workers outside of Imperia if such a thing were to benefit our...Paxian friends. I imagine that we could always use a few extra hands for those that are well skilled in the arts of....masonry, engineering, and construction. The Empire, and us northern port cites especially...must band together, yes?"

Of course, what the Thane was talking about was hiring Paxians to help in construction. After the wars here a lot of liveries were taken away here, and the offer could not only help Paxians obtain short term employment and funds, but the mere gesture Archalen hoped improved the diplomatic ties between the two cities. Whatever aid the city of Paxia had forgot to send Imperia during its dark times was forgotten, the time for new diplomacy was now for Imperia. Always strengthen, Always push was Archalens philosophy on forgien policy here.

"Extra Security forces would be welcome. Imperia is ....well..... lets say that the more the better." The Ministry employee could likely make this out for what it was; Imperia had improved but was not safe for assets and dreams such as this to become reality. At least, not without trying to have some unwanted fingers stealing from the pastry jar first. Security would be well received, no matter what blow it was to the forces of the guard. They were stretched to thin at the moment anyways, so any lost pride on their part would have to be endured currently. Pride could be restored, missed oppurtunies such as this could not.

The question about the weapon and the knowledge to use it however shook Archalen. Wield a weapon? Thinking about it, Archalen decided that he had not learned in any way how to use one. Not that he had once or twice in a seedy bar, back alley or deserted highway, but the pale elf certainly had never received a proper and learned instruction on the ways of war. Archalen gray orbs focused on Keldon for a moment. Why was it that the man wanted to know? Was it an honest question, or something else?

The spies from Paxia! Of course, the two called Roland and Arsenios. They must had heard through their fething spy ways that the Lord Thane had arrived in Paxia. Humiliated by their botched attempt last time to sabotage Imperia through obviously fradulant and harmful "trade agreements" they were likely now exacting their revenge. A perfect trap....luring the Thane into an encampment of soldiers, surrounded on all sides. And not only to have their weapons taken away at the gate (and merely by politely asking at that!!) but awaiting until the Thanes bodyguard was out of arms reach of his charge.

So here it was. Roland and Arsenios would seemingly have their revenge. Archalen remained on guard, tensing a bit that for the elfs of the shadows were merely un-noticeable. Archalen wanted to run, to flee....he could not stand up to the onslaught of the surrounding army. Such a perfect trap! Mind racing for words he came only to one. The word he spoke could have either been his answer to Keldons question; or perhaps it was his feeling on dying here and now. Whatever it referred to all the Thane of Imperia said was a neutral; "No."

[Keldon Elsdragon]

Nodding his head briefly Keldon smiled. "Good, then I shall have a hundred men from the Imperial Keep south of Imperia dispatched to offer armed protection for the construction." he said looking around the room suddenly becoming rather aware of how uncomfortable he had just become.

Looking at his curiously he quirked his brow. "Is everything alright your grace?" he asked wondering what triggered such a thing.

[Archalen Andares]

The question of why the Esh'lahier had tensed was asked. Several things went through Archalens mind, but none of the made a solid choice in what to reply with. Would he confront this possible Roland backed killer? Or perhaps it was a simple misunderstanding and the question of whether Archalen knew how to use a sword was genuinely just a question. A nervous chuckle escaped pale lips, and Archalen thoughtlessly started warming his fingers up. A thought went through his young mind to call for his bodygaurd. After all, Keldon was a Provst and a military man and would have no trouble striking the young Thane down should combat be engaged.

But....perhaps...just maybe, he wasn't here by Roland to have him killed?

Whatever conclusion Archalen had reached for the moment on the fate of his life; he simply shook his head as if to apologize. "My apologies..everything is fine. I only now noted the irony...of your question. Creating a factory of weapons in Imperia....and myself not knowing how to wield one." A blatant lie, in the context that it was not what made Archalen tense. However, it was true enough that he had no skills with the weapon.

Playing both cards he proceeded. His next sentence was one that warned the Provst Elsdragon, should he really be working on behalf of the Paxian Roland. Although probably, Keldon would not see it that way, having no idea of what Archalen was afraid of. To the Provst, it was likely to sound just like conversation. "Although I would like to learn......I am unafraid. Any man who tried to kill me....or succeeded in doing so....would have revenge coming shortly thereafter."

Archalen looked to the Provst. It seemed now that Keldon would either strike to kill the Thane, or he would not. The Esh'lahier remained wary all the same.