[color=7ea7d8]High Elder Gladstone[/color]

"Indeed, It was welcome, but a surprise nonetheless"

Barnaky paused after his reply, as if considering his own words.

"I had feared we could never overcome the circumstances of our departure, I'll be pleased if that turns out to be wrong. I must apologise for the robot, but I've learned over the years that it's easier to interact with others remotely via one of these constructs than through a monitor or set of speakers"

Another pause.

"and my current physical condition is quite disturbing to most to behold."

Atticus nodded as a reply. There wasn't really much one could say following that last remark. At least not without any reply being possibly construed as an insult. Such a thing was to be avoided and so, the High Elder remained silent.

Gladstone refocused his attention on the host, as Barnaky gestured to one of the seats at the table. 

"Please, be seated"

Another pause, perhaps a communication lag? Atticus stowed the thoughts away and concentrated on the task at hand.

"we have much to discuss. I must warn you before we begin, however, that we are most likely under surveillance at this very moment." 

"Indeed." Atticus added as a word of agreement with the, cyborg.

"If this meeting goes well, we can arrange for follow-up talks in a more, ahem, secure location."

Barnaky then offered the High Elder a drink, proposing to serve it himself. Atticus held up his hand in polite refusal to the offer and served the drink himself, such courtesy was appreciated, but not necessary.

"Now then, High Elder", Barnaky said as he settled back into his chair, "Let us discuss your proposal, I'm eager to hear it."

Sitting in his own chair, Atticus paused to sip his drink and gather his thoughts before replying.

"My proposal Lord-Paladin, is simple. Whilst we have been too far apart for too long, both in distance and in time, as well as the diverging circumstances that have made our respective entities evolve, my hope that we can reconcile to as warm a degree as possible. To that end, I would suggest an accord, of trade and non-aggression, with further clauses acknowledging the shared heritage of our polities establishing embassies for political reconciliation."

Pausing to take a breath, Atticus continued his proposal.

"Following that, I'd then suggest perhaps an exchange of culture and suchlike, with the hopes of overcoming the ingrained differences between our groups, and finally an alliance."

Falling silent, Gladstone sipped his drink, and waited for a reply with cautious trepidation.