[COR aMRCA] A Diplomatic mission

[Bregir]

Chapter 1: New appointments

"I believe now is the time - the diplomatic landscape is moving rapidly" Fletcher remarked with a firm nod. "But are we certain Montoya is up for the task?"

"I can hardly say, sir. All I got was this hastily scribbled note, and though I am flush with joy of my friends resurfacing in good heath, I know nothing of Montoya's state of mind." Cooke answered.

"I see. Perhaps it would be wise not to burden him too much, although his experience would come in handy..." Fletcher pondered for a moment.

"There is the young mr. Barlow..." Cooke interjected.

"Ah, indeed! I shall appoint him Junior Attaché and put him in charge of getting the expedition formed. I believe I will soon have some ships made available too!"

"The Amiable is launched and outfitted, and ready for service."

Fletcher nodded. "Ah, and here we have mr. Farley" who was waving at them. "I trust we are not running late?"

"Not at all, sirs" the seemingly always confused young gentleman said and bit them into his mansion.

[Professor Thaum]

A clever built but a blurry start for an AMRCA... What are we going to expect ?

Nice door.

[Roadmonkeytj]

I really like the shutter treatments on this! 

[Bodi]

A neat build, I like the facade and the greenery in front of it.

[Flavius Gratian]

Chapter 2: Mission briefing

”Gentlemen, Corrington is falling behind,” Rear-admiral Fletcher began, somewhat abruptly. “While we have spent the last year bogged down in conflicts with pirates and our own firebrand the WTC, Oleon and Eslandola have been building diplomatic relations and exploring new lands. Now the foreign office has decided it is time for us to get in the game. Therefore, we will be sending a diplomatic mission to Terraversa.”

The words had not entirely the intended effect. Most of the men assembled were either partly aware already or had their suspicions.

“The mission will be commanded by Captain Cooke on the HMS Greyhound. On arrival, the negotiations will be led by Consul Montoya, whom we are very happy to have safely back to civilization. In his absence, preparations have been cared for by Mr Barlow.”

“Indeed,” Mr Barlow responded. “The diplomatic vessels Amiable and Concord are supplied and fully crewed. I have also collected list, maps and other information that will be of use, to share with Consul Montoya.”

As he finished, Captain Cooke continued: “The civilian vessels will be escorted, apart from the Greyhound, by the Diligence, commanded by newly promoted Commander Lavendwood (Congratulations!), and the Intrepid. Additionally, they will carry Major Vernon and his company of regulars. Make sure your men are prepared! We sail tomorrow with the tide.”

As the men started leaving, Rear-admiral Fletcher shouted: “Captain Cooke and Consul Montoya, please stay for a private word!” Finally, they were alone, but for a younger officer who had been standing in the back by the window during the briefing.

“This is Commander Sir Andrew Drake, naval intelligence,” Fletcher said. “He will travel with you on a mission of his own. Though he will be formally under your command,” he said to Cooke, “Commander Drake reports directly to me and you will assist him as far as he requires. Consul Montoya, as the ranking authority on diplomatic matters you will be kept informed of the broad lines of Commander Drake’s mission. Thus, you will have full discretion during negotiations. Needless to say, this matter is strictly confidential."

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OOC: This is the delayed build to start off the aMRCA.

Picture of the room without figs:

Spoiler

Edited February 22, 2019 by Flavius Gratian

[Roadmonkeytj]

@Flavius Gratian @Bregir

The voyage from King's Harbour to King's Port should have been quick and uneventful. Unfortunately for the expedition, however; a strong squall struck only days after leaving port. The particularly nasty weather knocked the ships of the fleet around quite a bit and after the storm had passed Cooke surveyed the damage. His experienced eye quickly determined that the damage was largely superficial and looked much worse than it really was. The fleet would still be able to make Terraversia directly. 

Options

Only one of the following options may be taken this turn. 

Onward to King's Port.

• The mission is too important to delay. Press on to King's Port despite the damage. Surely the Terraversians will not take us any less seriously because of a small storm!
• You will reach King's Port this turn
• Show the tattered expedition arriving in King's Port. One build required.

Planning a Grand Entrance.

• With the other powers already on Terraversia we must make a good first impression. The damage to our ships makes us appear shabby and weak. We should repair the damage before making a grand entrance to King's Port.
• You will not reach King's Port this turn.
• Show the fleet making temporary repairs either at sea or in a nearby non-Terraversian port. A small sum will be deducted from the treasury to cover the costs of the repairs.

[Bregir]

As we will also be somewhat delayed, I am hereby announcing that we will press onwards to King's Port

[Bregir]

The damages had been more extensive than first believed - a fallen t'gallant mast from the Greyhound had stove in a plank below the waterline on the Diligence, requiring her to be hove down for careening in a sandy cove, further delaying the squadron, which was now finally calling at King's Port. Luckily, neither the Concorde nor the Amiable had suffered any significant damage, and with the paint and gilding brought for the purpose, all ships looks as good as new standing into the busy port.

Now, the expedition would have to decide on its next steps.

[Roadmonkeytj]

Wow ... That was some careening! Glad to see the fleet made it to kings port

Nice micro as well

[Bregir]

Having moored safely in the harbour of Kings Port, it was time for the mission to make its official appearance. Just like when the Olean and Eslandian missions had arrived, there was talk in town of what this meant - many Terraversians were slightly suspicious, but also felt pride that their small nation was granted the attention of the major powers in Terra Nova.

Outside the City Hall of Kings Port, where the audience would be held, our heroes made their final preparations.

"So, mr. Barlow, we shall meet Archduke Oldis and present to him our proposition. I shall let you handle negotiations here in King's Port, as shortly, Cooke and myself will take leave for Westface" Montoya said calmly. "Please recount our proposal to me."

"Our main purpose is as follows:

• We officially recognise Terraversa as an independent nation and wishes to establish a permanent diplomatic presence here
• This presence includes our military attachés, who will assist in training and educating Terraversan forces
  • Major Vernon and his aides will assist the army
  • Commander Morris and his retinue will join you for Westface and the Terraversan navy
• We are most interested in some form of trade agreement, and further willing to discuss terms for some form of mutual defensive pact"

Barlow pondered for a second, and then continued:

"You and Cooke will go to Westface and recount the same offer to Admiral L'Olius. And of course, our gifts! The Amiable yacht for the Archduke and the Concord schooner for the admiral."

"Very good, mr. Barlow. And any information you can get about the Olean and Eslandian involvement will be of particular interest. But nothing underhanded, mind you!" Montoya insisted. "i have every confidence in your abilities here. Also..."

Montoya hesitated a moment, lowering his voice. "Remember, we must avoid committing to Oldis or any other individual, until we understand the political landscape here better. There seems to be some internal power struggles still settling..."

Somewhere in the back alleys, a hooded man bearing an uncanny resemblance to Sir Andrew Drake, the intelligence officer attached to the mission, was discreetly seeking information about Olean and Eslandian involvement on Terraversa, and about the power struggle between Oldis and L'Olius, putting up a considerable sum [250 dbs] and spreading the word that useful information would be rewarded.

__________________________________________________

And here the whole build:

[Fraunces]

That cathedral looks really great! The stonework is amazing, especially in the main tower!! The photographs need a reward themselves as well. Great build

[Bregir]

Thanks, Fraunces! It was a pain to build such a large structure with this technique, as progress is very slow, but I think it was worth it in the end! ;)

I always like when people do full lego shots, where the background isn't visible, but you only see the built up moc, so I tried my hand here. And the pictures from a minifigs perspective makes them look quite cool, I think! It was also fun playing around with focus, although the background may have turned out a bit too blurry!

[Kai NRG]

Really nice perspective on the first shots!

[Bregir]

Personal Diary, I. Montoya,

Westface, Terraversa, November 11th, 619 AE

Today, we had our initial meeting with L'Olius at the city hall of Westface, and presented him with our official recognition of Terraversan Independence, and our willingness to establish lasting diplomatic relations. I did float the idea of a trade pact too. While he showed honest appreciation for our diplomatic efforts, he seemed much more taken by the Concord schooner we gifted to him personally. He leaves the impression of being more of a sea officer than a politician, with a dash of privateer about him, but there is no doubt he cares deeply for his newfound country.

The way he spoke of Oldis in Kings Port left little question as to his opinion on the Archduke, but they seem to be tolerating each other. From Cooke I learn that L'Olius is clearly a capable sea officer, and he did earn his spurs against the Mardierian fleet with some credible actions. The two of them seemed to come along famously, both being creatures of the sea.

Although committing to nothing, he did seem interested in our offer of military officers to assist in building up the standing army and navy for his young nation. I expect he will get back to us on the matter. The recent uprising near Westface may add to the appeal of our offer.

These are interesting times, although Cooke seems impatient being penned up here, while other officers take the fight to the enemy. No assurances of the importance of our mission seems to mollify him.

M.

[Captain Dee]

The story continues! 

First, allow me to comment on the prior build. That is amazing. The wall techniques, the color scheme, and the lovely clock (from Hairy Pottery?) all combine into a beautiful build, and the all-LEGO scene in particular has such a wonderful atmosphere. I had to brush up on the story, as I had largely forgotten all the who-what-when stuff.

And the latest installment of both build and story carries it on nicely. The contrast between dark and light greys is astounding, especially with the central pool, and the arched columns are really nice. I don't quite like the look of the exposed brown plates on the facade, but the other details are nice. And I like the combination of minifigs.

You have done so many nice frameless windows from transparent bricks and plates that I'm tempted to give it a try sometime.

[Bodi]

Good to see Montoya in action again, though I'm not sure the guys in OL court would appreciate what he's offered to l'Olius, especially that yacht, now the king Philip is pressing our shipyards to work out something comparable.

Nice buildings too.

[Bregir]

At a guesthouse in Westface, Cooke and Montoya were sifting through dispatches

"I have here a report from young mr. Barlow. So far, he has been unable to secure an audience with Oldis." Cooke reported with a furrowed brow.

"I am beginning to wonder if it was really coincidental that Oldis was not in attendance when we first came to Kings Port" Montoya sighed. "Have you seen any correspondence from mr.... lieutenant... ehrm... Sir Drake?"

Carefully, Cooke looked around and lowered his voice. "Only this report saying there was some interest in the bounty, but still nothing substantial. He will keep us appraised, I am sure."

"One can only hope we have news soon. We know so very little of what goes on on this island. Both Oleon and Eslandola has been meddling here for too long, and I can only wonder what manipulations they have been up to..." Montoya mused.

"Truth be told, old friend, I should rather be shot of it, Isaac. While we languish here in the comfort of diplomacy, my fellow officers are bringing the fight to the enemy, earning fame and glory for her Majesty!" Cooke slammed his fist into his hand with great vigour. "Just look at this here KPA. The Old Ironsides has won another victory! And some barbarians have dared attack our settlement in the far East..."

"Fear not Captain, I have a feeling we shall see our share of glory in time..."

[Bregir]

@Flavius Gratian

The Amiable and Concord had made almost as much of an impression as the arguably much more important recognition of independence.
Particularly L'Olius was thrilled with the gift and had welcomed the Corlander delegation into his court.
Oldis in Kings Port, on the other hand, had yet to agree to a formal meeting, and had kept communication at an absolute minimum to satisfy diplomatic etiquette.
    
Then, one morning, two sealed letters arrived.

1st letter, from L'Olius

Spoiler

To Don Isaac Montoya
Your glorious nation's recognition of my fatherland is most welcome, as is the gifts which you have brought. I have long been an admirer of the Corlander Royal Navy,
and is most pleased to commit to cooperation and friendship with your nation.
In recognition of your offers and intentions, I am hereby declaring Westface a free port for any lawful Corlander, here to enjoy the same rights as any Terraversan, and here to trade without tax.
In addition, our armed forces will welcome the assistance of their brother officers in professionalising our naval and army units under my command, for mutual learning. I must stipulate, though,
that Corrington must supply accoutrements, arms, and uniforms, as our young nation has only limited funds. (250 dbs paid to Terraversa)
    
This afternoon, I trust Captain Cooke and your good self will accompany me on my first cruise on the Concord schooner, where we can discuss particulars.
    
In service of Terraversa and its friends.
L'Olius
Grand Admiral of Terraversa

2nd letter, a hastily encoded document:

Spoiler

To M

Reliable sources. Foreign power funding and arming rebels. Nola Mar risen in arms. Significant threat. Strongly, repeat STRONGLY suggest further investigation.

/D

[Bregir]

Investigating Nola Mar

Based on the encoded document, Cooke has taken ship to Nola Mar to investigate matters first hand. With a pass from L'Olius to travel freely across Terraversa, he should have had no trouble with local authorities, but having first been denied disembarking the fishing boat that brought him there, Cooke had had to find other means.

During the dark of night, he had been dropped up at a nearby fishing pier and snuck past the patrols and harbour watch.

Now he was lurking in the shadows watching cargo being unloaded and stored in a warehouse cellar. During his observations, one of the boxes was dropped and burst open, showing its contents of arms.

While the workmen largely spoke Terraversan, a uniformed officer and an official were heard to speak a different tongue - Cooke could not make out if it was Mardierian or possibly... Olean?

Weapons, lock-down, and foreign involvement? Something was surely afoot!

He was starting to doubt if he would be able to get back out to see and return safely to Westface....

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Full view of the build:

Spoiler

 

[Bodi]

I like this build. Good replica of captain Genaro's warehouse.Though it's very daring for Sir Cooke to adventure among the rebels loyalists.

[Fraunces]

Great portside scene! The plot thickens!

[Bregir]

4 minutes ago, Bodi said:

I like this build. Good replica of captain Genaro's warehouse.Though it's very daring for Sir Cooke to adventure among the rebels loyalists.

Thanks - it was meant to replicate the style if not the specific design.

And yes, he is a daring cove, although normally from the quarterdeck.

But then again, why shouldn't a friend to Terraversa be allowed to stroll the streets of a Terraversan town? Capture would certainly lead to some form of reaction!

And then again, I am looking forward to gm'ing these two adventures further in court - for as Fraunces says:

15 minutes ago, Fraunces said:

The plot thickens!

Dum-DUM-DUM!

[Bregir]

Things were heating up in Nola Mar - the streets rang out with cries of spies and the stamp of patrols, so Cooke had found himself hunted prey. Concluding that he would be unable to gain further information, and wishing to get his intel out, he was now trying to dodge the patrols and to make it safely to a boat, to get back to Westface...

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Just a quick reaction build to OL's search for spies in Nola Mar - I think it is now time for the court to decide, if Cooke is captured or not... DumdumDUUUUUM!

Spoiler

 

[Keymonus]

The two storyline are finally in contact! Nice work with the previous builds, some are very impressive! I also like a lot the way your warehouse is similar to Capt Genaro's one! Sorry I can't hope all the best for Bregir's character...

Edited March 19, 2020 by Keymonus

[Kolonialbeamter]

Showdown time!! *grabs looted popcorn sitting on his toilet paper throne

This is a very intense shot, almost claustrophobic. Wouldn't want to be in Cooke's shoes right now... also, they are most likely wet 

I would say good look... but... nah