Lords of the East - Council Chambers

[Quirl]

Baghdad, Summer of 1174

In the east, a weariness has gripped the land. War has been brought from the West and now lies carnivorously in wait inside the Holy Lands. Across empires, slaves have become masters and masters slaves, as the Khwarezm rise from the leash of the Seljuks and the Ayyubids steadily depart from the dying rule of the Zengids. In Anatolia, the last lords of the once great Roman Empire hold tenaciously against their ever expanding neighbors, the Turks—with Armenia and Georgia anxiously watching nearby for their time to come. Even in the far East there comes change, as the Solanki Rajputs unite the scattered Hindu tribes and the Malikate of Sindh hold desperately onto life—with the Ghorids and Ghaznis prepared to stop these infidels from prospering at any cost. And not one month ago, the sun itself was blocked out by darkness and the sins of the world blanketed the sands. And on that night, the Caliph watched the skies and knew then what he must do.

A council should be formed. One that will unite the scattered and warring nations of the East. One that will be a beacon of light in the growing shadow. One that will be hosted in Baghdad and watched over by the only man capable of overseeing such change, the Caliph himself...

[Quirl]

At the far end of the Caliph's grand courtroom, the doors begin to open. Sands and wind poor steadily in from the outside, and carried with these is the figure of an old woman. She wears a heavy cloak over her heavy white bangs, and moves with a cane across the room. On her eyes are a thick rim of white cataracts and beside her stands a boy, who lightly assists her inside.

Can a woman parlay in the courts of men? I come on the behalf of those in the north—the Qara Suu—as their envoy. I hope I am looked well upon by the great hosts of Baghdad...

She bows on her cane.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

The Armenian Delegation arrives closely on the old woman's heels, although their entrance is not nearly as dramatic. There are two of them, both wearing scholarly robes and holding Short swords at their hips. They find a proper place to sit and lean back in their chairs, muttering to each other and jotting a few small notes.

[MerlinusCDXX]

The Caliph steps in from an antechamber, bearing a basin of water for ritual handwashing

In'shAllah friends, welcome to my court. There are refreshments on the tables, and cushions for you to take your rest between meetings. All have not arrived yet. My eastern guest, be welcome. I have no problem with you representing your people. However, I respectfully ask that you appear in public meetings modestly veiled. This is to keep the Ghulams from mistaking you for a woman of low repute, and thus to protect your dignity.

[Quirl]

I'll will keep my hood tightly fastened, then—in humble accordance to the laws of the Muslims.

She bows one more time before taking her seat with the help of the young servant boy.

[TriforceV]

With a sudden crash, the doors of the chambers thunder open
A Persian man slowly walks into the chambers echoing with each step, hawkishly he eyes his environment. He is gritty and battered, his face scared and old, with distant and cold eyes, yet his presence is that of an old lion. He reaches the center of the hall, he closes his eyes and speaks

"I am here, for Shahzadeh Muhammad the Mighty, hath requested it so" -

with a slight snarl, the Persian man walks to the council seats and sits as a represent of the Kwarezem Shah.

[MerlinusCDXX]

I see we have a sword of the Prophet among us. Sit, refresh yourself and be welcome.

Allow me to introduce my vizier Abdullah. He will be taking my place at this council while I attend to some business in my provinces. He speaks with my voice.

Caliph An-Nasir

[Quirl]

The young servant boy begins to lean over and grab a piece of meat off the Caliph's exquisite table of delicacies. The old woman slaps his hand and the boy looks down sheepishly to the floor. Then the woman turns to the new arrival...

Ah, the great delegation of the Khwarezm has finally arrived—and with no less show of prowess one might expect from such a mighty neighbor. You are one of the people I was specifically instructed to speak with concerning Astrakhan. Our own cartographers have mapped the region out as one of our own—simply a wayward vassal in need of discipline. But if your own ambitions span to the city, I'm sure this can be renegotiated. Everything can be renegotiated.

She smiles.

[barcamartin]

A short and thin figure silently enters the room. He awaits the room to fall silent, and then starts to speak with a surprisingly powerful voice.

I am Yussuf of Qahira. I'll be the word of the blessed Sultan Salah ad-Din, Vizier of Egypt and Sultan of the Ayyubids, in this council.

At the present time, we are negotiating peace treaties with the Franks, and seem to have reached an agreement. Finally all faithful in the Holy Lands can pray and practise their faith in peace.

The Sultans forces are marching as we speak, to bring the holy cities Mekka and Medina into the hands of true Muslims. The Sultan himself is also leading a great host to pacify the rebellious and violent tribes south of Egypt.

Other than this, the Sultan has no territorial claims at the present time. He is open to trade and map exchange with all nations, of all cultures and faiths.

Insha'Allah, peace between established nations will prevail in these dark and violent times.

[TriforceV]

Ah, the great delegation of the Khwarezm has finally arrived—and with no less show of prowess one might expect from such a mighty neighbor. You are one of the people I was specifically instructed to speak with concerning Astrakhan. Our own cartographers have mapped the region out as one of our own—simply a wayward vassal in need of discipline. But if your own ambitions span to the city, I'm sure this can be renegotiated. Everything can be renegotiated.

She smiles.

The old Persian warrior yawns, and waves his hand in dismissal barely looking at the Kypchak's mistress, and speaks
"I can assure you that our mighty Shah has little interest in these pagan lands of Astrakhan... take it and do with it what you will, but be warned..."
he now turns his gaze to the Kypchak ambassador, and continues
"Your ambitions in the East end there, or else we may end up showing you the extent of our might."
with a quick smirk, the old Persian warrior resumes his duties

[Quirl]

The woman simply smiles.

Oh, no need to show us anything, lord. Our ambitions don't really lie in... dirt.

Besides, I think we understand your propensity for might and the inevitable conflicts that will lead to... and why would we stop that?

The woman then turns to the Ayyubid representative.

And may I be the first to humbly welcome you to this court, noble Egyptian. May your swords fly true in the capture of your holy cities in Arabia.

[Merlox]

A letter would come in from the Seljuks.

The Sultan of the Seljuk Empire out right refuses this council. We will not negotiate any thing with the Infidels. We honour our neighbors, the Persian Shah, and also our closest neighbor, the Abbasid Caliphate. We wish for trade and alliance to both, and also non military borders.

We hope that you will agree to this. Thank you.

The Sultan of the Seljuks.

[TriforceV]

A letter would come in from the Seljuks.

The Sultan of the Seljuk Empire out right refuses this council. We will not negotiate any thing with the Infidels. We honour our neighbors, the Persian Shah, and also our closest neighbor, the Abbasid Caliphate. We wish for trade and alliance to both, and also non military borders.

We hope that you will agree to this. Thank you.

The Sultan of the Seljuks.

The old persian scoffs at the weak response issued by the Seljuks
"How can the Seljuk Empire outright insult all nations by refusing to meet in council?, becuase he does not want to negotiate with infidels?, to what infidels does he mean. Am I considered an Infidel?, How about the Abbasid of Baghdad who host these negotiations? If the Seljuks refuse to speak to the pagans or Christians than that be his choice, but to outright refuse to enter the council is an insult on all!"
he then rolls his eyes as he continues to speak
"If the Seljuks want peace and trade with the our beloved Shah than I suggest he send a proper diplomat to the council to negotiate this futher. If he outright refuses than I too will reject any of the Seljuks terms and will consider them as the infidels."

[Thanatos Eclipse]

Peasants and nobles alike, run for cover as a great storm blows in from the south. Lightning breaks up the night as thunder echoes through the council halls. There is a thump at the main entrance and then the heavy doors are flung open. There stands twelve ragged, mud covered seamen, but before they can rush into the warm, dry hall, permeating with the smells of delicious exotic foods, order are barked from the back of the group. Remembering their place, the seaman part to the sides to allow a tall cloaked figure to enter the hall. The figure first replaces his muddy boots with dry ones from under his cloak. He then proceeds to take off his soaked cloak and throws both the discarded boots and cloak to one of his men. From under the cloak appears not the typical dignitary but a pirate, albeit one of the best dressed pirates ever; his sword and multitude of daggers were still unmistakable signs of his profession. After sizing up the court guards and the other dignitaries, he unstrapped his daggers, leaving them with his men; keeping only his sword. The sword, an elogant design, with an ivory handle, inlaid rubies, and scarred blade, was obviously not serving the purpose its original owner had intended it for. Before continuing into the court he first turns around to his men to give them a few final orders. After his crew departs and the storm is again shut outside the doors, he turns around to introduce himself to the council.

“I am Captain Amr of the Oman navy. I represent the Imamate of Oman, the Grand Admiral, and the ... great Imam Murshed. I apologies for my tardiness, but we have been inhibited by this storm ever since we left the shores of Oman. An omen of things to come, I hope not. I like to think of it more as a sign that those who struggle for what they believe in shall be rewarded with Allah's grace," indicating the beautiful council chambers he now stood in. "I was asked to inform the council that the ... great Murshed, with Allah’s blessing, would like to open our ports to trade with those of all nations.”

After his introduction, Captain Amr heads for the closest servant, grabs a glass of wine, and sits down to relax after his long journey.

[MerlinusCDXX]

The Caliph thunders into the council chamber:

So, the sultan of the Seljuk sends insults already. The ink on the invitations to council has not yet dried and he sends this insulting goat pizzle instead of speaking with other nations as a civilized man, MOST OF WHOM NUMBER AMONG THE FAITHFUL, ...disgraceful.

Yussuf, captain Amr, my apologies at my unseemly manner of entry, be welcome. Yussuf, my diplomat is on the way to your lands to offer trade, cartographic exchange,and maybe more...

Captain Amr, I would speak to you later.

[Ramses II CP]

A Roman diplomat enters accompanied by a translator who stares wide eyed at his surroundings.. Around his neck the emissary wears a pomander which he sniffs frequently. The diplomat cuffs the translator roughly to get his attention before speaking,

"Wonderful court you have here, suppose you can't be blamed for the odor what with the heat and all. Anyway, I am the representative of the Emperor of Rome. I am here to inform you of his claims and ensure that any words you wish sent back in return are fairly heard. Let's begin then, yes?"

"Famagusta, Nicosia, and all the isle of Cyprus are a Roman holding," sniff, "Do not trespass."

"Rhodes and Crete are also claimed for Rome," sniff, 'If any of you know where that is...'

"Dorylaeum and Amorium," sniff, "have been secured by Roman armies for the Empire, do not trespass on those lands."

"Sinop and Heraclea are claimed in the name of the Empire. I understand Sinop is meant to already be under siege."

The emissary's gaze falls momentarily across the man from Kwarez and he pauses in his delivery to lift the pomander very clearly.

sniff... sniff!

"Ahh, yes, where were we? Rome cedes control of Antioch to the arbitration of the mighty Princes of Armenia and Jerusalem, may they settle the matter amicably."

sniff, "Now, as to Seleukeia, Amasia, Ani, and Erzurum we make no claim," sniff, " If no other will administer these wild lands Rome will bear the burdern rather than let," sniff, sniff, "rebellious scum infest the trade routes out of the east."

sniff

The diplomat momentarily appears at a loss as he gazes at each of his fellow diplomats. Finally he asks the translator a question and the man responds in Latin. Rome's emissary widens his eyes in surprise, and with a deep sniff turns to address the Kypchak woman,

"The Emperor sends his warm regards to the northern tribes. Ever have mighty men come to serve the Empire from the north, as the flow of Roman steel and trade has spread up to yours from the south."

sniff, sniff,

"It is the will of the Emperor that this profitable arrangement continue, and in token of such we offer a standing tribute of five hundred florins per season to be arranged at first opportunity. Additionally Rome makes no territorial claims in the northlands."

With a deep bow and an even deeper sniff the diplomat makes his way to his seat.

[TriforceV]

A Roman diplomat enters accompanied by a translator who stares wide eyed at his surroundings.. Around his neck the emissary wears a pomander which he sniffs frequently. The diplomat cuffs the translator roughly to get his attention before speaking,

"Wonderful court you have here, suppose you can't be blamed for the odor what with the heat and all. Anyway, I am the representative of the Emperor of Rome. I am here to inform you of his claims and ensure that any words you wish sent back in return are fairly heard. Let's begin then, yes?"

"Famagusta, Nicosia, and all the isle of Cyprus are a Roman holding," sniff, "Do not trespass."

"Rhodes and Crete are also claimed for Rome," sniff, 'If any of you know where that is...'

"Dorylaeum and Amorium," sniff, "have been secured by Roman armies for the Empire, do not trespass on those lands."

"Sinop and Heraclea are claimed in the name of the Empire. I understand Sinop is meant to already be under siege."

The emissary's gaze falls momentarily across the man from Kwarez and he pauses in his delivery to lift the pomander very clearly.

sniff... sniff!

"Ahh, yes, where were we? Rome cedes control of Antioch to the arbitration of the mighty Princes of Armenia and Jerusalem, may they settle the matter amicably."

sniff, "Now, as to Seleukeia, Amasia, Ani, and Erzurum we make no claim," sniff, " If no other will administer these wild lands Rome will bear the burdern rather than let," sniff, sniff, "rebellious scum infest the trade routes out of the east."

sniff

The diplomat momentarily appears at a loss as he gazes at each of his fellow diplomats. Finally he asks the translator a question and the man responds in Latin. Rome's emissary widens his eyes in surprise, and with a deep sniff turns to address the Kypchak woman,

"The Emperor sends his warm regards to the northern tribes. Ever have mighty men come to serve the Empire from the north, as the flow of Roman steel and trade has spread up to yours from the south."

sniff, sniff,

"It is the will of the Emperor that this profitable arrangement continue, and in token of such we offer a standing tribute of five hundred florins per season to be arranged at first opportunity. Additionally Rome makes no territorial claims in the northlands."

With a deep bow and an even deeper sniff the diplomat makes his way to his seat.

The old Persian laughs heartily at the lofty roman representative, and sarcastically remarks,
"I see the council jester has arrived, will he not play us a ballad?"
the Persian then snorts loudly, and spits on the floor
"Ohhh, my mistake! it's just another pompous heathen emissary.
With an amusing grunt the Old Persian returns to his duties

[Quirl]

For several seconds after he is done speaking, the woman merely stares at the Roman diplomat. Though she is blind, there is a visible look of surprise painted in her eyes. She turns to regard the Khwarezm and his mockings; then she turns back to the Roman, clearing her throat...

Yes... well... the Qara-Suu are more than happy to accept this tribute.

She smiles.

In truth, we welcome a fellow "heathen" and "infidel" to this courtroom. We have fought beside mighty Rome many times before and look forward to doing so again.

She bows.

But in the meantime, please don't let the cruel words of the Khwarezm wilt those precious flowers of yours. We welcome you humbly to this court, mighty masters from Rome.

OOC:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Wow, Ramses. You're diplomat is making me laugh out loud and aggravating my sinuses all at once!

There's one in every courtroom. It's certainly a change from your humble Hindu ambassador I'm so used to, though.

[MerlinusCDXX]

Perhaps, Roman ambassador, you brought the odor in with you. I would suggest not making your way to my palace by way of the horse and camel market, after all, Allah only knows what can get onto your shoes there...

[phonicsmonkey]

A young knight arrives at Court, looking extremely relaxed, as though he has not hurried to get here. He is strikingly handsome, in a slightly effeminate way, with long flowing dark hair, smouldering eyes and a stylish goatee. His armour is brightly burnished and decorated with silk tassels and ornate etchings.

To the onlookers at Court there is something...unconvincing about him. Those who study him closely as he walks and talks with his entourage notice that he seems to have only two facial expressions.

His name is Orloomo Bland, and he addresses the Court using facial expression #1, an earnest look with intensly knitted brow and a slight pout of the lips.

Caliph of Islam, I represent his majesty King Baldwin of the Crusader States.

Our presence in these lands is unwelcome, this much we know. So my presence here is likely also unwelcome.

It matters not, for we care not for the good graces of those assembled here. Our mission is laid down by the Most High, and we are convinced of its righteousness.

We will make no public land claims. Let those who border us, or expect to, speak to us in private if they fear our Holy armies and wish to entreat us to restrain our expansion.

The matter of Antioch, so far as we are concerned, is settled. The city will fall to our forces under Raymond de Tripoli next season. The Armenians have been offered a fair deal and have rejected it. We do not wish to fight them, but we are quite ready to if it becomes necessary.

He sits, and begins to study himself in a small polished brass mirror.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

A young knight arrives at Court, looking extremely relaxed, as though he has not hurried to get here. He is strikingly handsome, in a slightly effeminate way, with long flowing dark hair, smouldering eyes and a stylish goatee. His armour is brightly burnished and decorated with silk tassels and ornate etchings.

To the onlookers at Court there is something...unconvincing about him. Those who study him closely as he walks and talks with his entourage notice that he seems to have only two facial expressions.

His name is Orloomo Bland, and he addresses the Court using facial expression #1, an earnest look with intensly knitted brow and a slight pout of the lips.

Caliph of Islam, I represent his majesty King Baldwin of the Crusader States.

Our presence in these lands is unwelcome, this much we know. So my presence here is likely also unwelcome.

It matters not, for we care not for the good graces of those assembled here. Our mission is laid down by the Most High, and we are convinced of its righteousness.

We will make no public land claims. Let those who border us, or expect to, speak to us in private if they fear our Holy armies and with to entreat us to restrain our expansion.

The matter of Antioch, so far as we are concerned, is settled. The city will fall to our forces under Raymond de Tripoli next season. The Armenians have been offered a fair deal and have rejected it. We do not wish to fight them, but we are quite ready to if it becomes necessary.

He sits, and begins to study himself in a small polished brass mirror.

One of the Armenians speak up

Yes, both sides are unwilling to back down, and we Armenians will not allow Antioch to be denied from its rightful owners.

[Quirl]

Good masters from the Levant, I hope we can be of service to you in your righteous endeavors. However, the Qara-Suu would like to know what exactly your "mission" is now that you have made peace with the Ayyubids? It is our understanding that you have traded Holy Cities and have formed an alliance with the Egyptian Sunnis. Is all this true?

[phonicsmonkey]

The young knight pauses for a long moment before responding, studying his questioner.

His expression is inscrutable as he quietly answers.

Ma'am, the King has not provided me with words to answer your questions, save that he prefers to keep his own counsel in matters of diplomacy and of religion.

However, given that it is public knowledge that he and the Great Salahuddin have laid down the blade and formed an alliance, I suppose I can confirm that here without overstepping my mandate.

As to our mission, let only the wicked fear it - and let them quake in their very boots at our approach.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

The Armenian Diplomat raises an eyebrow

Pray tell, how exactly did your king get that alliance? Surely something must have traded hands in the deal?

[phonicsmonkey]

Orloomo's expression does not change. He simpy turns to face the Armenian, his comely face an enigmatic mask, as if carved from wood.

Pardon me sir, but I fail to see why I would be inclined to share any information at all with the representative of Takavor Rueben, who has stated in no uncertain terms his intention to attack and sieze our holdings at Antioch.

Sirrah, until you cross our borders we do not consider you an enemy, but I'm sure you can see why we could neither at this stage consider you a friend.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

The Armenian Diplomat looks slightly annoyed, He crosses his arms across his chest before speaking

Fine. I know more than enough already, I care little for what blasphemies you chose to partake in. Antioch will not be allowed to stay in your hands, know that much. Our People are in that city, and we will not let you keep them oppressed.

[Merlox]

As the absense of the Seljuk Empire's diplomat is obvious, news of merchants that traveled through Seljuk territory. The current rumour is that the seljuks have launched an unheard of invasion to the west of of their empire. Independant countries fell in the sweep. and the largest of the kigndoms, Georgia has been delt a devistating blow, as their main army has been defeated. Last words any one has heard that Georgia is in full retreat, As it is the last kingdom standing before the Seljuks reach the black sea.

[Quirl]

The young servant boy receives a letter, marked with a crimson eye, detailing the news of the Seljuk invasion of their neighbors. He whispers the letter's contents and the old woman scoffs after hearing the news...

And they didn't invite us? Pity...

[CiviC]

Deleted

[Merlox]

At the highest towers and walls looking north of Baghdad, The Seljuk armies have constructed a fort on the other side of the river where Baghdad sits, making it very hard for merchants to travel through. Reports of Seljuk armies have headed west along the river to the rebel city just west of Baghdad.