[centre] Arakion Royal Palace [/centre]

The sun rose over Arakion Royal Palace, highlighting the intricate carvings and tall columns that made up the marble wonder. There were doubtlessly taller buildings in Elkheim, hell, there were taller buildings in Arakion, but this was the one the commanded the most attention. Whether it was the proud flags that adorned the building or the gargoyles at the gates, no-one could pass the Palace without stopping for a moment to admire it.

High Lord Andohar sat on his balcony near the top of this stone marvel. Despite how early it was, he was already washed and dressed, and was presently leafing through an old book. In an hour or so, he would have to listen to some inane rambling about 'democracy' and 'freedom' that several members of the court had mystically got into their heads. For now though, he was content to bask in the sunlight.

"M-my Lord?"

Andohar didn't even raise his head "Good morning, Tailin. I trust last night was... eventful?"

Lord Tailin cursed. Last night certainly was eventful, but not in a good way. Nothing happened to him - he didn't really like alcohol and he was far too shy to hit on anyone - but Pinkara and Faelen were completely different stories. Fae had enough wine to sink a boat, and Pinkara must have seduced every man there, and a few women. It was all in good fun, of course, but nonetheless it wasn't how the Royal 'Family' should behave.

"Yes, sir, it was. I believe the Ladies are still in bed." he spluttered nervously.

"Indeed," Andohar nodded his head solemnly "and at what time did you get home?"

Tailin muttered so quietly, Andohar struggled to hear "I don't know, sir"

"So tell me, Lord Tailin," Andohar said menacingly, looking him straight in the eyes "Did you have fun?"

The younger Lord almost hit his superior "You swine! You almost gave me a heart attack!"

Andohar chuckled loudly "All in good humour, Tail, all in good humour. I wanted to join you, but I had some things to look over here. Pink and Fae are still in bed, are they not?"

Tailin grimaced at the mention of his nickname "Yes, my lord. I don't think they have recovered from last night's festivities"

Andohar, still smiling, put his book to the side. "Ok, to business. You wouldn't normally enter my quarters unless you have something to say. So..."

"Of course, my lord. Brother-Captain Tarkin has informed me that the new recruits have arrived."

"Well, that's good. Do you have any news of our caravan?"

"I recieved a message before I went out last night that it has arrived safely and with no damage to its goods"

"Excellent. Our allies have made a wise trade. Is there anything else"

"Yes. We have intercepted this." Tailin handed the High Lord a letter "Well, intercept isn't quite the right word..."

Andohar opened the letter. Inside, it read

[quote]
To: All nations of this world that follow the one true faith, 
From: His Holiness, Doge Rudun of the Holy Stomian Empire and the Haloist Order 

His holiness has requested your presence of all of the leaders of those glorious nations that follow the one true faith in the Summer Festival. A grand feast will be held at the White Palace before sermons will take place to thank the lord for his bounty. Finally the leaders will be blessed with holy water before talks with the Doge and the Emperor may begin about other topics that may come up
[/quote]

"What is this, Tailin? The one true faith? Haloist Order? Is this some kind of insult?"

"I don't know, my lord. It seems to be an invitation."

"And what of the messenger? Has he said anything?"

"My lord, the messenger had eaten a Taint plant. That's the only reason our men could recover the letter"

The Taint was a strange plant. It imitated a large, juicy red fruit, but to devour it was deadly. Many of the Enclave's warriors are those sent crazy by eating the unusual fruit.

"So one invite isn't going to reach its destination..." Andohar stroke his black goatee slowly, a million different things going on in his head. To go without invitation could be dangerous, but there was no better chance to study his neighbours over the border in their home territory.

"Thank you, Tailin. If there is nothing else..."

"No sir, there is not"

"Then may I respectfully ask you to leave? I have lots to think about."

"Of course." Tailin stood and bowed "I guess I'll see you later." And with that, the young lord left the room.

[quote] To: Doge Rudun of the most Holy Stomian Empire
From: High Lord Andohar of Elkheim

My apoligies at my somewhat unexpected response. I wish to ask you a few questions, however, pertaining to the meeting over Summer Festival. I was wondering whether it is acceptable for myself to appear, as I currently know little about Haloism. I believe if anyone can teach me about such a prominent religion, or indeed, even convert an Agnostic such s myself, it will be you. If I was to be converted, I believe this will improve my relations with both your own nation, which will surely aid us both, and the others that will appear.
Also, is it acceptable if I bring a close ally of mine?
With blessings from my house to yours
[i] High Lord Andohar of Elkheim[/i]
[/quote]