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<blockquote data-quote="Silver Moon" data-source="post: 7016026" data-attributes="member: 8530"><p><strong>Chapter 121, "Negotiation Parameters" , September 12, 1882, 6:00 P.M. </strong></p><p></p><p>In Zakazik, George and Ruby are approaching the dining room of the Grand Hotel. Unlike prior visits to this room, when it was open to the public, it looks remarkably different now. Most of the tables and chairs have been removed, with one long table now in the center. However, this table currently is not set. Instead, there is a smaller table with only four chairs that has been set and arranged over near the fireplace on the far wall. A small fire is burning and throwing off a variety of colors, mostly reds and oranges, but with some blue, green and purple streams. Several guards stand by the entrance way to the room. Five of them are human but the one who catches George and Ruby's eye is Neferka's Ogre bodyguard, who they have not seen since earlier that morning. </p><p></p><p>Ruby hooked her arm through George's as they strolled into the dining room. She nodded at the ogre. "Good evening Mengesha. I hope all is well, with you and with the Queen?" He nods and says, "Indeed it is Miss West, Mr. Eastman. I greatly thank the both of you for all that you have done today to help keep the Queen safe. I would have been with her at all times if she had not ordered me elsewhere." Ruby says, "Of course, I am certain no one blames you for being away. We know you would give your life for the Queen." Ruby glanced back over the room. "So what is going on? I thought there would be a big dinner here tonight." He replies, "Actually no, there will just be the four of you." </p><p></p><p>Ruby says, "The four of us? George and I, the Queen and... Do you know who the last person is?" He replies, "Her sister Amisi." "Oh, yes, well, thank you." She smiled at the ogre before sweeping into the room. " I am starving, I hope the Queen comes soon. I hadn't realized how hungry I was until just now. Luckily the food here is very good." They do not have to wait long for the two young ladies to arrive. They come with a full complement of servants, although most are left at the doorway. Ruby and George rise as they see the Queen and her sister.</p><p></p><p>The women enter and Neferka says for them all to sit. They are no sooner seated with the waiters come forward with the first course of what appears to be a multi-course meal. Their glasses are also filled, with four before each person. One is filled with water, another with wine, a third with fruit juice and the fourth with whiskey. The waiters then all depart, giving privacy to the quartet. "Welcome and our thanks for the invitation your highnesses" says George as they sit. "Amazing what this place can put together when there is a royal decree" adds George with a grin. "I know I, and I suspect Ruby, haven't had a decent meal in quite some time." </p><p></p><p>Neferka says, "Yes, and we will not be interrupted. We should have an excellent fourteen-course meal, one that is long overdue in my opinion." "Fourteen courses? Good thing I'm hungry," Ruby laughed. Neferka continues, "Now, Ruby and George, you've met my sister Amisi but I do not think that you were ever formally introduced. She is the closest of my two sisters to my age, which also now makes her the heir to the throne. That is why I insisted that she accompany me here. None of us princesses were ever taught to rule, but I at least paid attention. Amisi means Flower in Egyptian, and she unfortunately has always been treated like a delicate little flower. That ends today, as she will now undergo a crash course in leadership with me as her professor. </p><p></p><p>She turns towards her sister and says "Amisi. I wanted Barrister Sefu to remain in Cairo for the short term because we need to negotiate peace accords with both the rebel army and the British forces. We need the rebels to disarm and disband, and we need the British to leave Egypt altogether. As my father's former Chief of Staff he brings far too much baggage into these delicate negotiations. Mr. Eastman, however, can be seen as totally impartial and has the skill set to accomplish what I need."</p><p></p><p>She turns to George and says, "You will be adequately compensated for your time Mr. Eastman. The first thing you need to communicate to both parties is that Ahmed Orabi will receive no special treatment from me during these negotiations. His role as my husband and consort will be irrelevant to these discussions as it is his role as the rebel leader and the rebel leader alone who we will negotiating with. And while it may sadden the woman known as Neferka to have to exile or imprison the man, if it is decided that those options become what the Queen of Egypt must do, then so be it. Anything less would be a violation of the wedding vows that both he and I took before Bast and her Pantheon." </p><p></p><p>When the serious talk began and Ruby's eyes started to glaze over. Talking business was never her strong suit. She did catch some of what was being said. She comments, "This sounds like a dangerous job George has in front of him." Neferka says, "A challenging one yes, but I think that the true danger has passed." </p><p></p><p>"Challenging is an understatement. But neither side would dare violate the truce Bast established nor the rules of warfare on negotiations. I will of course require not only a letter authorizing me, but some other token, especially for the rebels, that signifies that I am negotiating in your name and authority. If you wish, your sister can accompany me to listen to the negotiations. I won't promise excitement, but they can be instructive." replies George</p><p></p><p>Neferka replies, "Yes, she should see what you do, it will help to explain much to her. As for Bast's influence, that will help, but we still have something that both sides coveted. I do not think they will just withdraw their demands out of hand. Britain will want a permanent military presence, which I will not allow, and the rebels will want a permanent voice in the government, which I also will not allow. You have considerable latitude to negotiate on my behalf, but I will not sacrifice my sovereignty." </p><p></p><p>George pulls out his magical notebook that has somehow miraculously made it through the chaos of the past few weeks. He opens it and begins to write. "Forgive my rudeness for writing at the table, but this is a working meal. Ok no permanent British military presence, no permanent rebel voice in government. Any other restrictions? Obviously the British would like to see assurances about access to the canal. Perhaps a five-year accord where a single military base with naval access near the canal to supplement Egyptian security until you can rebuild appropriate security measures?" She replies, "No physical structures, perhaps ship anchorages at Port Said or Alexandria. I do not want any British near Cairo.</p><p></p><p>He continues, "As for the rebels, what was their original motivation? And if you will forgive the forwardness of the question, but the marriage to Orabi was arranged and politically motivated. Do you want to see Orabi exiled or otherwise removed? I can direct negotiations to further your personal as well as national desires." She says, "Their original motive was that wanted to remove undue foreign influence. Clearly, having you as an American facilitate this will not please them, but America has no ambitions of colonizing the world. Orabi will also want to have things settled before Sefu arrives on Friday and relieves you. No I do not want to see Ahmed exiled or imprisoned, but I am sincere about following through on that if it becomes necessary. If Orabi pushes you feel free to push back." </p><p></p><p>He says, "Ok, no physical structures. I think I can leverage the expulsion of the French cabal to get appropriate concessions from the British. The rebels may be more difficult, but if Orabi and his commanders order them to disband, that will help and I have some influence with them. And while your sister and I both know something of Egypt's current situation please answer these next two questions as if we did not, so that I truly understand your position and provide her with context. What is the current governmental organization? What governmental institutions are in place to run day to day operations?</p><p></p><p>She smiles and says, "It is a monarchy. And the monarch is more than just a King or Queen, the leader is the Pharaoh, a ruling position directly liked and presumed to be supported by the Egyptian Pantheon. The King or Queen can delegate responsibilities and day-to-day operations. The issue with the rebels relates entirely to the Suez Canal. The 101 mile canal was constructed in the time of my father's reign during the decade of 1859 to 1869 at a cost of $100 million. However, the consensus of Orabi and the rebel leaders is that my father King Hakar was sold a "bill of goods" as the countries that helped to finance the canal are also its primary customers and pay a greatly reduced fee as part of the original treaty. So Egypt's debt repayment has exceeded revenue, forcing Egypt to "sell" partial ownership of the canal to their British creditors in return for partial debt reconsideration. </p><p></p><p>The rebels feel that King Hakar sold Egypt out, this great canal has hurt rather than helped the country, and they feel that it is only through total negation of the prior agreements that the country will ever recover. As British interests were therefore threatened, the British put their military might on the side of King Hakar to preserve the status quo. Barrister Sefu was one of the original backers of the canal. He feels that in the long-run it will still be of great benefit to Egypt, and that we are currently just suffering from short-term cash flow issues that will dissipate in a generation or two.</p><p></p><p>Ruby waited anxiously for the next course of food. While the Queen's sister looked like she was listening, her eyes were glazed over, a feeling Ruby was familiar with. She did say she would help in any way but she really had no idea what they were talking about so couldn't contribute.</p><p></p><p>George replies "I believe I will be able to reach an agreement that will be satisfactory to you. Whether it is satisfactory to the rebels or the British is another story." George pauses a moment for a bite or two. "I wonder if this will impact my corporate presence in the greater United Kingdom?" he muses. He takes another bite and shrugs. "C'est la guerre" he adds with a grin. </p><p></p><p>He adds, "But I fear we are boring the less diplomatically inclined among us." George says turning to Ruby. "How is your food my dearest?" "It's absolutely delightful," Ruby responded with a smile. "While I don't pretend to know what you are talking about, I do understand it is important. Do not stop on my account. I'll just keep enjoying my dinner." </p><p></p><p>Neferka says, "We are almost completed the business. When do you want to start and with which faction or both simultaneously? We can send messengers to the camps once this meal is completed." "No time like the present. I would like to strike while the iron is hot, meaning the manifestation of Bast. So after dinner I suppose. I would like a central conference room, with two independent rooms attached. That way I can have separate as well as joint talks as needed. Also may I have Lieutenant Colonel Hassan placed at my disposal for the talks? I feel he would be respected by both sides and would function very well as my assistant in this endeavor." replies George. She says, "Yes, although Dhahabiya Hassan is no longer a Lieutenant Colonel, he has received a promotion to the rank of Colonel." </p><p></p><p>Ruby gritted her teeth. "I know you are eager to help the Queen but isn't it a little late to start negotiations tonight? I mean, by the time we finish this delicious 14 course meal the Queen has had prepared for us... Wouldn't starting fresh be more ideal? By the time each side gets their message and responds... I don't know much about these things but it just seems the morning would be better." George smiles and pats Ruby's hand. "Of course you are right my dear. It will take some time to send messengers and allows the representatives to arrive, the rooms to be made ready. So yes, let preparations begin, but the real work can start in the morning, after this sumptuous meal and a good night's sleep." replies George. </p><p></p><p>"Of course, that is if it pleases the Queen. I would imagine even a Queen needs some time to rest her mind and relax, even if just a little." Ruby shot George a quick look! letting him know she had her own plans for him this evening. The Queen says, "Yes, there is no need to accomplish it all tonight. Messages will be sent this evening, the negotiations will all take place tomorrow. Ruby, I want my sister to be present but my being there would undermine Mr. Eastman's work, so once initial introductions are made and the people he will be talking with are assured that he speaks on my behalf I will then be available to spend some time with you." </p><p></p><p>Ruby exclaims, "That will be fabulous! As long as it doesn't interfere, of course. We haven't had much chance to shop, or see sights for that matter. It would be nice to get to see the beauty of Egypt. Don't you agree George?" "Yes, it would be nice to see the beauty of Egypt without someone trying to shoot at us, roaring from one place to another at high speed. One more task my love, then we can see them together. So why don't you take tomorrow to shop, once negotiations are done, though it may take more than one day, we will see the sights" replies George. </p><p></p><p>"It's a date! With both of you," Ruby grinned and went back to eating. They could talk as much business as they needed now, she was satisfied. The final two courses are severed, both being desserts. One is a lemon-almond pie with cream topping. The other is vanilla bean ice cream with shaved Swiss chocolate on the top. As usual, George and Ruby chose opposite desserts. As they chatted lightly Ruby helped herself to some of George's dessert, and he just smiled. </p><p></p><p>Once they were finished eating, Ruby squeezed her friend's hand. "I know sleeping tonight may not come easy to you. And of course, you have your sister. But if you need me, just send someone, and I will be there." Ruby stood and stretched then offered George her hand. "Let's go, it's getting late." George stood and pushed in his chair. "Good night Your Highness." Ruby did the same but paused, to see if her friend had any need of her now before she left. Neferka tells George, "The messages will be sent for tomorrow's meetings. What hour do you wish to start? </p><p></p><p>George replied, "9:00A.M. Thank you Your Majesty, and you have a good night." With that George and Ruby retire to their room. Ruby plopped on the bed, full and tired. George began undressing and when he turned back to look at Ruby, she was already passed out on the bed. He kissed Ruby on the cheek and passed out next to her. </p><p></p><p>George awakens at 8:00AM. As he exits the bedroom of the suite he sees that a pair of young Egyptian teenage girls are waiting to assist him. One says that she has drawn him a bath while the other presents him with the clothing that he had worn the previous day, which has now been cleaned and pressed. He also notices one addition, as a holster with a revolver has been attached to his belt. </p><p></p><p>George takes a bit of exercise, a luxury he hasn't had for a bit, and brings a cigar and a bottle of scotch into the bath with him. The women offer to bathe him but he declines, dismitting the pair. Carefully keeping track of the time, he gives himself a good twenty minutes of blissful indulgence before getting out, drying and getting dressed. He looks at the holster, debating whether or not to wear it, but finally decides to wear it, precautions were required and it lent an air of authority. He could always crack an obstinate person over the head with it if needed as well. examining himself in the mirror he takes a deep breath and turns to a still sleeping Ruby, giving her a kiss on the cheek before heading downstairs. </p><p></p><p>George is met by an Egyptian Army Lieutenant who ushers him into a small private dining room adjacent to the main dining room. Seated inside is Colonel Dhahabiya Hassan in a formal dress uniform that bears the insignia of his new rank. The man is drinking tea from a large mug and gestures for George to have a seat where a place setting has been laid out. George is no sooner seated when an overflowing platter full of breakfast and a mug of coffee are placed before him by the younger Lieutenant, who then departs. The Colonel says, "Eat heartily Mr. Eastman, it may be quite a while until our next meal." </p><p></p><p>George digs in with gusto, "No need to tell me, you should have seen my last board meeting where we had to take down the silver trust." grins George through bites. "Now, I am thinking that we would want to meet with each group separately first, then together, then break them apart and let them stew. Repeat as needed. I asked to have you here to help because as an officer, the British will respect you, and the rebels will trust you more as an Egyptian. No one will like me, especially when I start shooting down all their demands." laughs George. </p><p></p><p>Colonel Hassan says, "Zakazik is the home of the General Ahmed Orabi and most of his senior staff, which means instead of stewing in a room they will likely go elsewhere in the city until called back. With that in mind, would you prefer to meet with them first or second? And do we want to wait until both groups to be called together for the Queen's grand entrance and support of you, or should that be done with each group individually?"</p><p></p><p>"Oh no, Hassan. Orabi and his staff don't get to leave. They will stay in their assigned room until this gets done. They will not leave, and if they try I will threatened them with charges of treason to be executed immediately. I have a goddess and a dragon to back that up. It is imperative that neither side sees that the other is being favored. I do think that the British may be a longer debate, so I will see Orabi's faction first. As for the Queen, ideally, we would have an agreement in place for her entrance. If one side is proving obstinate, then I will ask the Queen to appear to add weight. Otherwise we will proceed in her name but not in her presence." replies George.</p><p></p><p>The Colonel replies, "Very good. I will see that a suite of rooms in the hotel is made available for both groups to wait in, and will assign guards to ensure that takes place. Now, what arms will you allow for them to carry? Bear in mind, denying even personal weapons in this culture is usually seen as a grave insult, however extenuating circumstances clearly exist given the recent assassination of the king." "We will let them carry the arms of officers and gentlemen, a sword. No firearms. I think that will satisfy honor don't you?" replies George. He replies, "It do. I will see to the arrangements." He departs and the Lieutenant who brought him to the room returns and asks George if he will be needing anything further with his breakfast. </p><p></p><p>"No, I think I am done here. You may take the dishes." replies George. "I will be walking in the garden, please come retrieve me a short while before 9:00AM for the conferences." The lieutenant nods in agreement as George heads out. It would be a long day of sitting, so he wanted to stretch his legs while he could. He always found gardens calming, and right now he needed to collect his thoughts for the coming events.</p><p></p><p>The enormity of his responsibilities hadn't really hit George Eastman until now. The future of an entire nation rested upon his shoulders. The stakes had never been higher. However, he at least didn't have a dog in this fight per se, so that would help him remain detached, still passions would run hot on both sides. George continued his stroll through the garden, contemplating his role, planning out his strategies and proposals. His mind would wander though at times, up to his room, where his fiance lay. That would make him smile and remember for whom he did this. He would then refocus his mind and continue on his ruminations. </p><p></p><p>Finally the Lieutenant returned. George saw him and nodded. He took a last sniff of the closing blossoms of a jasmine flower before straightening, closing his eyes, taking a deep, cleansing breath and opening his eyes, fixed and full of purpose. He nodded to the Lieutenant to proceed and followed him out of the garden to his date with history. </p><p></p><p>The Lieutenant leads George into the main dining room of the Zakazik Grand Hotel. A pair of armed human Egyptian soldiers guard all entrances and exits into the room except for the main one, which has six armed Nubian elite guards by it. The table is covered with a white silk tablecloth that has gold and platinum threads sewn into it in that depict hieroglyphics that honor the Egyptian pantheon. There are three centerpieces. A white marble statue of Ra has been placed nearer the northern end of the table, a black marble stature of Bast at the southern end. Near the center (but positioned so as to not block George's view of the participants) is a small bust of King King Haker Takeleth VI, Neferka's father. Also on the table are pitchers of ice water and crystal glasses, but there is no other visible food or beverages in the room. </p><p></p><p>Three occupants are sitting in three of the five chairs on George's side of the table. In chair left of center is Colonel Hassan. In both chairs down nearer the end of the table are male scribes in elaborate robes who George recognize as having been present during his two prior meetings with King Haker. Across on the other side of the table are five chairs. Colonel Hassan says, "Each contingent will consist of the three top Generals and two clerks to record the meeting. Like ours, one clerk will record the discussions in English, the other in Arabic. Each General has also been allowed to bring a personal aide, but during the negotiations they will be required to stand at the doorway and will be watched by the Nubians." </p><p></p><p>George surveys the room. "Excellent. Have them come in and sit. I will make my opening remarks and introductions, then we will have each party head to their individual rooms." "A thought. What language should be the negotiating language do you think Hassan?" He replies, "An interesting question, and the answer is somewhat dependent upon what role you wish for Princess Amisi to play in the negotiations. She is fluent in the languages of Arabic, Italian and Ancient Egyptian, while her grasp of the English language far less so. If the discussions are in English she will probably be able to follow some of the conversation, and if we move the Arabic scribe's chair closer to her she could follow along, but she would not really be able to contribute. For the discussions with the British that would probably be wise.</p><p></p><p>However, she has known General Orabi for years as a family friend, as he has her as well. If called upon she might be able to assist in the discussions if they are in Arabic. Queen Neferka has also thrown a major wild card into this mix for the Orabi discussion, by formally naming Amisi as her heir. A formal declaration was actually not needed, as Amisi was next in the line of succession up until the time that Queen Neferka has a child. General Orabi would had assumed that a child of his through Neferka would automatically become the next monarch, but that is no longer the case, as Amisi will now remain the heir until Neferka declares otherwise. He also does not know of this declaration yet, although the Queen has made it official through a proclamation that will become public knowledge later today." </p><p></p><p>"Well, then let's make it fair and conduct everything in Esperanto which Doctor Zamenhof has developed." says George to Hassan. George holds for a moment then laughs at the look of confusion on Hassan's face. "I am sorry my friend, a little linguistic jest. I will conduct each separate meeting in the native tongue of the faction. I will alternate for the main conference, even if it means speaking twice. I think it will be important to again show no partiality to either side." replies George. "Amisi will, as you suggest, do well to stay near the scribe when we speak with the British side alone, but she will have no problem in the main room." </p><p></p><p>He says "Very good. I will go and retrieve the Princess and send word to the Egyptian group join us in a short while. ". Hearing that the meeting will begin soon, the two scribes each retrieve large leather bound books with blank pages and arrange several ink pens on the table before them. Before exiting the room Colonel Hassan asks, "Is there anything else that will be needed here for the discussions?" "Yes, patience, understanding, compromise and altruism. Unfortunately, these aren't things you and I can bring, our guests need to, whether they do or not will color these discussion." says George grimly. "Let us begin."</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Silver Moon, post: 7016026, member: 8530"] [B]Chapter 121, "Negotiation Parameters" , September 12, 1882, 6:00 P.M. [/B] In Zakazik, George and Ruby are approaching the dining room of the Grand Hotel. Unlike prior visits to this room, when it was open to the public, it looks remarkably different now. Most of the tables and chairs have been removed, with one long table now in the center. However, this table currently is not set. Instead, there is a smaller table with only four chairs that has been set and arranged over near the fireplace on the far wall. A small fire is burning and throwing off a variety of colors, mostly reds and oranges, but with some blue, green and purple streams. Several guards stand by the entrance way to the room. Five of them are human but the one who catches George and Ruby's eye is Neferka's Ogre bodyguard, who they have not seen since earlier that morning. Ruby hooked her arm through George's as they strolled into the dining room. She nodded at the ogre. "Good evening Mengesha. I hope all is well, with you and with the Queen?" He nods and says, "Indeed it is Miss West, Mr. Eastman. I greatly thank the both of you for all that you have done today to help keep the Queen safe. I would have been with her at all times if she had not ordered me elsewhere." Ruby says, "Of course, I am certain no one blames you for being away. We know you would give your life for the Queen." Ruby glanced back over the room. "So what is going on? I thought there would be a big dinner here tonight." He replies, "Actually no, there will just be the four of you." Ruby says, "The four of us? George and I, the Queen and... Do you know who the last person is?" He replies, "Her sister Amisi." "Oh, yes, well, thank you." She smiled at the ogre before sweeping into the room. " I am starving, I hope the Queen comes soon. I hadn't realized how hungry I was until just now. Luckily the food here is very good." They do not have to wait long for the two young ladies to arrive. They come with a full complement of servants, although most are left at the doorway. Ruby and George rise as they see the Queen and her sister. The women enter and Neferka says for them all to sit. They are no sooner seated with the waiters come forward with the first course of what appears to be a multi-course meal. Their glasses are also filled, with four before each person. One is filled with water, another with wine, a third with fruit juice and the fourth with whiskey. The waiters then all depart, giving privacy to the quartet. "Welcome and our thanks for the invitation your highnesses" says George as they sit. "Amazing what this place can put together when there is a royal decree" adds George with a grin. "I know I, and I suspect Ruby, haven't had a decent meal in quite some time." Neferka says, "Yes, and we will not be interrupted. We should have an excellent fourteen-course meal, one that is long overdue in my opinion." "Fourteen courses? Good thing I'm hungry," Ruby laughed. Neferka continues, "Now, Ruby and George, you've met my sister Amisi but I do not think that you were ever formally introduced. She is the closest of my two sisters to my age, which also now makes her the heir to the throne. That is why I insisted that she accompany me here. None of us princesses were ever taught to rule, but I at least paid attention. Amisi means Flower in Egyptian, and she unfortunately has always been treated like a delicate little flower. That ends today, as she will now undergo a crash course in leadership with me as her professor. She turns towards her sister and says "Amisi. I wanted Barrister Sefu to remain in Cairo for the short term because we need to negotiate peace accords with both the rebel army and the British forces. We need the rebels to disarm and disband, and we need the British to leave Egypt altogether. As my father's former Chief of Staff he brings far too much baggage into these delicate negotiations. Mr. Eastman, however, can be seen as totally impartial and has the skill set to accomplish what I need." She turns to George and says, "You will be adequately compensated for your time Mr. Eastman. The first thing you need to communicate to both parties is that Ahmed Orabi will receive no special treatment from me during these negotiations. His role as my husband and consort will be irrelevant to these discussions as it is his role as the rebel leader and the rebel leader alone who we will negotiating with. And while it may sadden the woman known as Neferka to have to exile or imprison the man, if it is decided that those options become what the Queen of Egypt must do, then so be it. Anything less would be a violation of the wedding vows that both he and I took before Bast and her Pantheon." When the serious talk began and Ruby's eyes started to glaze over. Talking business was never her strong suit. She did catch some of what was being said. She comments, "This sounds like a dangerous job George has in front of him." Neferka says, "A challenging one yes, but I think that the true danger has passed." "Challenging is an understatement. But neither side would dare violate the truce Bast established nor the rules of warfare on negotiations. I will of course require not only a letter authorizing me, but some other token, especially for the rebels, that signifies that I am negotiating in your name and authority. If you wish, your sister can accompany me to listen to the negotiations. I won't promise excitement, but they can be instructive." replies George Neferka replies, "Yes, she should see what you do, it will help to explain much to her. As for Bast's influence, that will help, but we still have something that both sides coveted. I do not think they will just withdraw their demands out of hand. Britain will want a permanent military presence, which I will not allow, and the rebels will want a permanent voice in the government, which I also will not allow. You have considerable latitude to negotiate on my behalf, but I will not sacrifice my sovereignty." George pulls out his magical notebook that has somehow miraculously made it through the chaos of the past few weeks. He opens it and begins to write. "Forgive my rudeness for writing at the table, but this is a working meal. Ok no permanent British military presence, no permanent rebel voice in government. Any other restrictions? Obviously the British would like to see assurances about access to the canal. Perhaps a five-year accord where a single military base with naval access near the canal to supplement Egyptian security until you can rebuild appropriate security measures?" She replies, "No physical structures, perhaps ship anchorages at Port Said or Alexandria. I do not want any British near Cairo. He continues, "As for the rebels, what was their original motivation? And if you will forgive the forwardness of the question, but the marriage to Orabi was arranged and politically motivated. Do you want to see Orabi exiled or otherwise removed? I can direct negotiations to further your personal as well as national desires." She says, "Their original motive was that wanted to remove undue foreign influence. Clearly, having you as an American facilitate this will not please them, but America has no ambitions of colonizing the world. Orabi will also want to have things settled before Sefu arrives on Friday and relieves you. No I do not want to see Ahmed exiled or imprisoned, but I am sincere about following through on that if it becomes necessary. If Orabi pushes you feel free to push back." He says, "Ok, no physical structures. I think I can leverage the expulsion of the French cabal to get appropriate concessions from the British. The rebels may be more difficult, but if Orabi and his commanders order them to disband, that will help and I have some influence with them. And while your sister and I both know something of Egypt's current situation please answer these next two questions as if we did not, so that I truly understand your position and provide her with context. What is the current governmental organization? What governmental institutions are in place to run day to day operations? She smiles and says, "It is a monarchy. And the monarch is more than just a King or Queen, the leader is the Pharaoh, a ruling position directly liked and presumed to be supported by the Egyptian Pantheon. The King or Queen can delegate responsibilities and day-to-day operations. The issue with the rebels relates entirely to the Suez Canal. The 101 mile canal was constructed in the time of my father's reign during the decade of 1859 to 1869 at a cost of $100 million. However, the consensus of Orabi and the rebel leaders is that my father King Hakar was sold a "bill of goods" as the countries that helped to finance the canal are also its primary customers and pay a greatly reduced fee as part of the original treaty. So Egypt's debt repayment has exceeded revenue, forcing Egypt to "sell" partial ownership of the canal to their British creditors in return for partial debt reconsideration. The rebels feel that King Hakar sold Egypt out, this great canal has hurt rather than helped the country, and they feel that it is only through total negation of the prior agreements that the country will ever recover. As British interests were therefore threatened, the British put their military might on the side of King Hakar to preserve the status quo. Barrister Sefu was one of the original backers of the canal. He feels that in the long-run it will still be of great benefit to Egypt, and that we are currently just suffering from short-term cash flow issues that will dissipate in a generation or two. Ruby waited anxiously for the next course of food. While the Queen's sister looked like she was listening, her eyes were glazed over, a feeling Ruby was familiar with. She did say she would help in any way but she really had no idea what they were talking about so couldn't contribute. George replies "I believe I will be able to reach an agreement that will be satisfactory to you. Whether it is satisfactory to the rebels or the British is another story." George pauses a moment for a bite or two. "I wonder if this will impact my corporate presence in the greater United Kingdom?" he muses. He takes another bite and shrugs. "C'est la guerre" he adds with a grin. He adds, "But I fear we are boring the less diplomatically inclined among us." George says turning to Ruby. "How is your food my dearest?" "It's absolutely delightful," Ruby responded with a smile. "While I don't pretend to know what you are talking about, I do understand it is important. Do not stop on my account. I'll just keep enjoying my dinner." Neferka says, "We are almost completed the business. When do you want to start and with which faction or both simultaneously? We can send messengers to the camps once this meal is completed." "No time like the present. I would like to strike while the iron is hot, meaning the manifestation of Bast. So after dinner I suppose. I would like a central conference room, with two independent rooms attached. That way I can have separate as well as joint talks as needed. Also may I have Lieutenant Colonel Hassan placed at my disposal for the talks? I feel he would be respected by both sides and would function very well as my assistant in this endeavor." replies George. She says, "Yes, although Dhahabiya Hassan is no longer a Lieutenant Colonel, he has received a promotion to the rank of Colonel." Ruby gritted her teeth. "I know you are eager to help the Queen but isn't it a little late to start negotiations tonight? I mean, by the time we finish this delicious 14 course meal the Queen has had prepared for us... Wouldn't starting fresh be more ideal? By the time each side gets their message and responds... I don't know much about these things but it just seems the morning would be better." George smiles and pats Ruby's hand. "Of course you are right my dear. It will take some time to send messengers and allows the representatives to arrive, the rooms to be made ready. So yes, let preparations begin, but the real work can start in the morning, after this sumptuous meal and a good night's sleep." replies George. "Of course, that is if it pleases the Queen. I would imagine even a Queen needs some time to rest her mind and relax, even if just a little." Ruby shot George a quick look! letting him know she had her own plans for him this evening. The Queen says, "Yes, there is no need to accomplish it all tonight. Messages will be sent this evening, the negotiations will all take place tomorrow. Ruby, I want my sister to be present but my being there would undermine Mr. Eastman's work, so once initial introductions are made and the people he will be talking with are assured that he speaks on my behalf I will then be available to spend some time with you." Ruby exclaims, "That will be fabulous! As long as it doesn't interfere, of course. We haven't had much chance to shop, or see sights for that matter. It would be nice to get to see the beauty of Egypt. Don't you agree George?" "Yes, it would be nice to see the beauty of Egypt without someone trying to shoot at us, roaring from one place to another at high speed. One more task my love, then we can see them together. So why don't you take tomorrow to shop, once negotiations are done, though it may take more than one day, we will see the sights" replies George. "It's a date! With both of you," Ruby grinned and went back to eating. They could talk as much business as they needed now, she was satisfied. The final two courses are severed, both being desserts. One is a lemon-almond pie with cream topping. The other is vanilla bean ice cream with shaved Swiss chocolate on the top. As usual, George and Ruby chose opposite desserts. As they chatted lightly Ruby helped herself to some of George's dessert, and he just smiled. Once they were finished eating, Ruby squeezed her friend's hand. "I know sleeping tonight may not come easy to you. And of course, you have your sister. But if you need me, just send someone, and I will be there." Ruby stood and stretched then offered George her hand. "Let's go, it's getting late." George stood and pushed in his chair. "Good night Your Highness." Ruby did the same but paused, to see if her friend had any need of her now before she left. Neferka tells George, "The messages will be sent for tomorrow's meetings. What hour do you wish to start? George replied, "9:00A.M. Thank you Your Majesty, and you have a good night." With that George and Ruby retire to their room. Ruby plopped on the bed, full and tired. George began undressing and when he turned back to look at Ruby, she was already passed out on the bed. He kissed Ruby on the cheek and passed out next to her. George awakens at 8:00AM. As he exits the bedroom of the suite he sees that a pair of young Egyptian teenage girls are waiting to assist him. One says that she has drawn him a bath while the other presents him with the clothing that he had worn the previous day, which has now been cleaned and pressed. He also notices one addition, as a holster with a revolver has been attached to his belt. George takes a bit of exercise, a luxury he hasn't had for a bit, and brings a cigar and a bottle of scotch into the bath with him. The women offer to bathe him but he declines, dismitting the pair. Carefully keeping track of the time, he gives himself a good twenty minutes of blissful indulgence before getting out, drying and getting dressed. He looks at the holster, debating whether or not to wear it, but finally decides to wear it, precautions were required and it lent an air of authority. He could always crack an obstinate person over the head with it if needed as well. examining himself in the mirror he takes a deep breath and turns to a still sleeping Ruby, giving her a kiss on the cheek before heading downstairs. George is met by an Egyptian Army Lieutenant who ushers him into a small private dining room adjacent to the main dining room. Seated inside is Colonel Dhahabiya Hassan in a formal dress uniform that bears the insignia of his new rank. The man is drinking tea from a large mug and gestures for George to have a seat where a place setting has been laid out. George is no sooner seated when an overflowing platter full of breakfast and a mug of coffee are placed before him by the younger Lieutenant, who then departs. The Colonel says, "Eat heartily Mr. Eastman, it may be quite a while until our next meal." George digs in with gusto, "No need to tell me, you should have seen my last board meeting where we had to take down the silver trust." grins George through bites. "Now, I am thinking that we would want to meet with each group separately first, then together, then break them apart and let them stew. Repeat as needed. I asked to have you here to help because as an officer, the British will respect you, and the rebels will trust you more as an Egyptian. No one will like me, especially when I start shooting down all their demands." laughs George. Colonel Hassan says, "Zakazik is the home of the General Ahmed Orabi and most of his senior staff, which means instead of stewing in a room they will likely go elsewhere in the city until called back. With that in mind, would you prefer to meet with them first or second? And do we want to wait until both groups to be called together for the Queen's grand entrance and support of you, or should that be done with each group individually?" "Oh no, Hassan. Orabi and his staff don't get to leave. They will stay in their assigned room until this gets done. They will not leave, and if they try I will threatened them with charges of treason to be executed immediately. I have a goddess and a dragon to back that up. It is imperative that neither side sees that the other is being favored. I do think that the British may be a longer debate, so I will see Orabi's faction first. As for the Queen, ideally, we would have an agreement in place for her entrance. If one side is proving obstinate, then I will ask the Queen to appear to add weight. Otherwise we will proceed in her name but not in her presence." replies George. The Colonel replies, "Very good. I will see that a suite of rooms in the hotel is made available for both groups to wait in, and will assign guards to ensure that takes place. Now, what arms will you allow for them to carry? Bear in mind, denying even personal weapons in this culture is usually seen as a grave insult, however extenuating circumstances clearly exist given the recent assassination of the king." "We will let them carry the arms of officers and gentlemen, a sword. No firearms. I think that will satisfy honor don't you?" replies George. He replies, "It do. I will see to the arrangements." He departs and the Lieutenant who brought him to the room returns and asks George if he will be needing anything further with his breakfast. "No, I think I am done here. You may take the dishes." replies George. "I will be walking in the garden, please come retrieve me a short while before 9:00AM for the conferences." The lieutenant nods in agreement as George heads out. It would be a long day of sitting, so he wanted to stretch his legs while he could. He always found gardens calming, and right now he needed to collect his thoughts for the coming events. The enormity of his responsibilities hadn't really hit George Eastman until now. The future of an entire nation rested upon his shoulders. The stakes had never been higher. However, he at least didn't have a dog in this fight per se, so that would help him remain detached, still passions would run hot on both sides. George continued his stroll through the garden, contemplating his role, planning out his strategies and proposals. His mind would wander though at times, up to his room, where his fiance lay. That would make him smile and remember for whom he did this. He would then refocus his mind and continue on his ruminations. Finally the Lieutenant returned. George saw him and nodded. He took a last sniff of the closing blossoms of a jasmine flower before straightening, closing his eyes, taking a deep, cleansing breath and opening his eyes, fixed and full of purpose. He nodded to the Lieutenant to proceed and followed him out of the garden to his date with history. The Lieutenant leads George into the main dining room of the Zakazik Grand Hotel. A pair of armed human Egyptian soldiers guard all entrances and exits into the room except for the main one, which has six armed Nubian elite guards by it. The table is covered with a white silk tablecloth that has gold and platinum threads sewn into it in that depict hieroglyphics that honor the Egyptian pantheon. There are three centerpieces. A white marble statue of Ra has been placed nearer the northern end of the table, a black marble stature of Bast at the southern end. Near the center (but positioned so as to not block George's view of the participants) is a small bust of King King Haker Takeleth VI, Neferka's father. Also on the table are pitchers of ice water and crystal glasses, but there is no other visible food or beverages in the room. Three occupants are sitting in three of the five chairs on George's side of the table. In chair left of center is Colonel Hassan. In both chairs down nearer the end of the table are male scribes in elaborate robes who George recognize as having been present during his two prior meetings with King Haker. Across on the other side of the table are five chairs. Colonel Hassan says, "Each contingent will consist of the three top Generals and two clerks to record the meeting. Like ours, one clerk will record the discussions in English, the other in Arabic. Each General has also been allowed to bring a personal aide, but during the negotiations they will be required to stand at the doorway and will be watched by the Nubians." George surveys the room. "Excellent. Have them come in and sit. I will make my opening remarks and introductions, then we will have each party head to their individual rooms." "A thought. What language should be the negotiating language do you think Hassan?" He replies, "An interesting question, and the answer is somewhat dependent upon what role you wish for Princess Amisi to play in the negotiations. She is fluent in the languages of Arabic, Italian and Ancient Egyptian, while her grasp of the English language far less so. If the discussions are in English she will probably be able to follow some of the conversation, and if we move the Arabic scribe's chair closer to her she could follow along, but she would not really be able to contribute. For the discussions with the British that would probably be wise. However, she has known General Orabi for years as a family friend, as he has her as well. If called upon she might be able to assist in the discussions if they are in Arabic. Queen Neferka has also thrown a major wild card into this mix for the Orabi discussion, by formally naming Amisi as her heir. A formal declaration was actually not needed, as Amisi was next in the line of succession up until the time that Queen Neferka has a child. General Orabi would had assumed that a child of his through Neferka would automatically become the next monarch, but that is no longer the case, as Amisi will now remain the heir until Neferka declares otherwise. He also does not know of this declaration yet, although the Queen has made it official through a proclamation that will become public knowledge later today." "Well, then let's make it fair and conduct everything in Esperanto which Doctor Zamenhof has developed." says George to Hassan. George holds for a moment then laughs at the look of confusion on Hassan's face. "I am sorry my friend, a little linguistic jest. I will conduct each separate meeting in the native tongue of the faction. I will alternate for the main conference, even if it means speaking twice. I think it will be important to again show no partiality to either side." replies George. "Amisi will, as you suggest, do well to stay near the scribe when we speak with the British side alone, but she will have no problem in the main room." He says "Very good. I will go and retrieve the Princess and send word to the Egyptian group join us in a short while. ". Hearing that the meeting will begin soon, the two scribes each retrieve large leather bound books with blank pages and arrange several ink pens on the table before them. Before exiting the room Colonel Hassan asks, "Is there anything else that will be needed here for the discussions?" "Yes, patience, understanding, compromise and altruism. Unfortunately, these aren't things you and I can bring, our guests need to, whether they do or not will color these discussion." says George grimly. "Let us begin." [/QUOTE]
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AGELESS Campaign Episode 2 - Temple of the Cat-Goddess
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