DIPLOMATIC INTRIGUE // Arthur

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,300,true][atrb=cellspacing,0,true][atrb=background,http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n222/amoline/img_zps814978b7.png][atrb=style,padding: 10px; height: 350px;][atrb=vAlign,bottom] [style=color: #DEDEDE; text-shadow: #808080 1px 1px 1px; font-family: georgia; line-height: 80%; font-size: 20px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: -2px; font-style: italic;]as the days keep turning into night[/style][style=color: #BCBDAC; text-shadow: #808080 1px 1px 1px; font-family: times new roman; letter-spacing: -1px; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; text-align: center;]I HAVE BEEN QUIETLY STANDING IN THE SHADE ALL MY DAYS WATCH THE SKY BREAKING ON THE PROMISE THAT WE MADE [/style] [style=padding: 30px 0px 30px 0px; color: #717171; font-family: trebuchet ms; font-size: 10px; background-color: #E8E5D3; opacity: 0.8; filter:alpha(opacity=80); margin: 10px 15px 10px; float: center; padding: 10px; text-align: justify; height: 300px; width: 300px; align: center; overflow: auto;]Nathaniel was aware of the implications that this scandal would cause and he hoped that nothing short of the best would come out of this. The two diplomats, a Virginian and a former New Yorker were caught on their way to Britain on a mail packet. Living up to his expectation, there was an initial rally from United States citizens to threaten war against Britain. All the southern states watched with a warm sort of contentment, hoping that this entire affair would explode into all-out war. It would be a death sentence to the Union’s cause and a sure victory for southern rights. However, it didn’t quite go that way. In the very least, then Nathaniel hoped that the incident would lead to permanent damage to the Anglo-American relationship. There was some hope yet, especially when the British government demanded that the men be released along with an apology that no one was expecting to actually be issued. Alfred was too busy with his own personal dilemma to issue any, not to mention that he probably never would in a sane state of mind. The crisis was semi-officially resolved when the two men were released, who staunchly continued on their voyage to Britain. Nathaniel Corbett, himself, was already going to make his own personal attempt to sway the British nation. It had been years since Nate had seen him thanks to Alfred’s taskmaster-like steadiness with his isolationism policy and his continued ill feelings towards his former colonizer. Nate, while he was an instrumental part during the Revolution and enjoyed that part of historical rebellion, still didn’t have the same hard feelings that Alfred continued to harbor for Arthur. They were convoluted and Nate would rather not delve too deeply into those. He had sent a letter beforehand, which hopefully hadn’t been intercepted, detailing his expected arrival and hopes for a future brief meeting with the Empire. By the time of Nate’s arrival and the settling of his room and board for the next couple of weeks, he eventually received a response in turn. It was brief. Nothing about it seemed like Arthur had written it… well, except for the stiff formality. Nate didn’t mind too much, as long as he was being given a time and date to meet with the British Empire, that’s all he really cared about. Nate’s first impression of London as he peered out of the grimy windows of the carriage was that it was damp, cold, dirty, and congested. Even the torrents of rain didn’t seem to help clean the glass. Mud splashed everywhere, kicked up by humans and horses alike. No different from any of the other large cities, really, but London seemed so much more crowded, so much more alive with the overflow of people and commerce. Nate glanced down at his fingers, encased in white gloves and clenched them into fists. How in the world would they stay that way when he exited the carriage? He shouldn’t have dressed up—his normal work clothes would have been better suited for this weather. He winced, thinking of the cost of the fine linen shirtwaist, jacket, and shoes. What a waste, and such a shame given the state of the United States economy during times of war. Arthur, far back in the day, never shared just how dismal London could be in November. Not that he had ever shared much about the world beyond Colonial America’s borders. Though he had endlessly criticized Virginia’s wet, cold winters, and had sworn that London fared much better. Nate snorted. The carriage rattled along and swerved sharply to the right, up an incline where more regular cobbles made the ride instantly smoother. The rain was just as hard here, but it didn’t seem as filthy. While the other walkways were filled with people milling about in the slick rain, this street was empty. This must be Mayfair. He leaned against the upholstery and took a small breath. They were almost there and he was going to attempt to have a casual conversation with England… eventually leading up to possible diplomacy. This was an important, strategically-sound move. The carriage came to a steady halt and Nate took a detailed overview of Arthur’s home. He wondered how often Alfred had been here before... It took him a brief moment to push those thoughts away before he approached the front, making quick work of his umbrella as he walked across the drenched walkway. He was aware that Arthur probably already knew that he had arrived, but still gave a measured, quick knock at the door. Nate waited, clenching his fingers in his jacket pockets, attempting to settle his nerves. [/style] [style=color: #fff; text-shadow: 2px 2px 2px #404040; font-family: times new roman; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;]T A G: arthur/rye P L A C E & T I M E: london... november 27, 1861 N O T E S: got this started =) [/style]

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[style=width: 416px;background-color: #b1b198; color: #989884; font-family: arial black; font-size: 9px; text-align: right; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; padding-top: 3px; letter-spacing: 4px; margin-bottom: -1px;]I DON'T NEED YOUR BLOODY HALO[/style][style=width: 416px;background-color: #b1b198; color: #d4d4b4; text-shadow: #814a4a 1px 1px 0px; font-family: georgia; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 15px; text-align: right; font-weight: bolder; text-indent: 2em; letter-spacing: 1px; margin-bottom: -3px;]can't you see i'm no one's angel[/style]

[atrb=style,border-top: 8px solid #333333; border-bottom: 8px solid #333333; border-left: 3px solid #b1b198; border-right: 3px solid #b1b198;][bg=7b3636][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,420,true][atrb=width,20%][atrb=vAlign,top] [style=width:100px; height: 100px; border: 3px solid #333333; opacity:0.9;filter:alpha(opacity=40); margin-left:3px; background-image: url(http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n222/amoline/479_zpsdfcc783b.png); -moz-border-radius-topright: 40px; -moz-border-radius-bottomleft: 40px;] [/style]   [style=width:100px; height: 100px; border: 3px solid #333333; opacity:0.9;filter:alpha(opacity=40); margin-left: 3px; background-image: url(http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n222/amoline/479_zpsdfcc783b.png); -moz-border-radius-topright: 40px; -moz-border-radius-bottomleft: 40px;] [/style]  [style=width:100px; height: 100px; border: 3px solid #333333; opacity:0.9;filter:alpha(opacity=40); margin-left: 3px; background-image: url(http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n222/amoline/479_zpsdfcc783b.png); -moz-border-radius-topright: 40px; -moz-border-radius-bottomleft: 40px;] [/style] [style=margin-right; 19px; margin-top: -360px; height: 375px; margin-left: 115px; margin-bottom: -5px; overflow:auto; background-color: #333333; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px; color: #e1dbc2; padding-top: 16px; padding-bottom: 19px; padding-right: 10px; padding-left: 10px; text-align: justify; -moz-border-radius-topleft: 10px; -moz-border-radius-topright: 10px;]Arthur was incensed about Alfred intercepting the ship and taking prisoners. The cold reality of another possible war between them had only hardened his resolve against the other nation. No, he never desired the prospect of plunging into another war with him... but he would be more than ready to meet him for battle if the younger foolishly chose to challenge him. Arthur had no one to confide in at the moment and he sometimes had to remind himself that it was indeed better to be feared in a world that would just as quickly turn against him. The least he could do after the prisoners had been taken was to speak on their behalf, demanding that they be released. Arthur also fit in a smug demand for an apology; a small part of him did it out of society-enforced decorum, the other part simply liked seeing him irritated. It was better to get a reaction out of Alfred instead of being so frequently ignored aside from their professional exchanges. Alfred had already made it clear what he would do if Arthur even thought about getting involved in his Civil War—instant declaration of war. Although, England had to wonder how the war-torn Alfred could really stand a chance in starting war with an Empire while going through internal struggles. No, Arthur had enough experience and sense to know that that wouldn’t end well. …which is why Arthur was surprised to receive a formal request for a chance to meet from Nathaniel Corbett—Virginia. That was… unexpected. While he was aware of the diplomats being sent from the South, he was unaware that he would receive an actual visit from one of the states themselves. And from Virginia, no less… It was a poorly kept secret that Arthur held a bit of a soft spot for that state in particular… for obvious reasons. The first he had encountered. The first he had named. He sent a painfully formal response just in case there were any interceptions. Yes, Arthur had learned to be a bit paranoid since his rise to power. Anything could be used against him. Arthur wouldn’t have been surprised by Nate’s first impression of London. It was at that point in time, coupled with the dramatic population increase, that the city grew—dirty, cramped, and wonderfully busy. Always in motion. And the weather had been horribly wet hours before. Arthur was used to it, but he wondered about his guest-to-be and how he was faring. At the moment, Arthur was preparing his home, having the servants do a quick cleaning of the already immaculately looked-after home. Tea was also being prepared, as that was a common necessity for receiving guests. Arthur would be courteous, polite, following the Victorian rules of propriety. He noticed the arriving carriage just outside of his study window. Arthur straightened out the cuffs of his shirt and smoothed the winkles from his waistcoat before leaving the tobacco-scented room. Arthur was quick to dismiss the servants, allowing them to retreat to their corner of the house so that he could carry on the meeting undisturbed. Arthur approached the door after waiting for the knock. ”Hello, Mr. Corbett...” Arthur greeted politely, his voice only slightly strained with seeing someone from the part of the past that he was trying so hard to ignore for now... ”Please, come in…” he muttered after raking his eyes over the state, taking in how much Nathaniel had grown since he had last seen him. Arthur wasted little time before leading him to his study. Once inside, he shut both doors. In the study, Arthur was quick to jump into the thick of things. He waved Nathaniel over toward a seat from across his desk before pouring himself a cup of tea. ”Care for tea?” He asked, still being stiff and formal; green eyes straining not to take in the now full-grown state before him… It was still a bit surreal to see Virginia. Here of all places... ”It’s… been a while… hasn't it?” Arthur couldn’t help the words. With his back turned to Nate, his sharp gaze soothed over in the slightest. [/style]

[style=width: 416px; background-color: #b1b198; margin-top: -3px; color: #212121; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px;] words:: 683 ♠ tagged:: NATE ♠ notes :: XD [/style][style=font-family: courier new; letter-spacing: 4px; font-size: 10; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase;] template by synchronicity[/style]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,300,true][atrb=cellspacing,0,true][atrb=background,http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n222/amoline/img_zps814978b7.png][atrb=style,padding: 10px; height: 350px;][atrb=vAlign,bottom] [style=color: #DEDEDE; text-shadow: #808080 1px 1px 1px; font-family: georgia; line-height: 80%; font-size: 20px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: -2px; font-style: italic;]as the days keep turning into night[/style][style=color: #BCBDAC; text-shadow: #808080 1px 1px 1px; font-family: times new roman; letter-spacing: -1px; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; text-align: center;]I HAVE BEEN QUIETLY STANDING IN THE SHADE ALL MY DAYS WATCH THE SKY BREAKING ON THE PROMISE THAT WE MADE [/style] [style=padding: 30px 0px 30px 0px; color: #363636; font-family: arial; font-size: 10px; background-color: #E8E5D3; opacity: 0.8; filter:alpha(opacity=80); margin: 10px 15px 10px; float: center; padding: 10px; text-align: justify; height: 300px; width: 300px; align: center; overflow: auto;]Nathaniel felt like he was suffocating in the humidity, the rain not quite leaving, yet being a constant presence. London was a bit dreary, he would admit to that, but he also sort of liked the old-world charm that the place had. Something that remained despite the usual negatives of crowded city living. Even as he waited at the door, Nate eyed the garden and the other small details of Arthur's home. He never had the pleasure of having been here like Alfred had, so this was all new to him. He was still taking it in when Arthur had answered the door. Nate tipped his hat at Arthur's greeting, his gaze peeking from beneath the brim, indulging in a long overdue once over of the British Empire. The last time he had seen him was during the Revolution... Nate was still so young, barely with the appearance of a teenager, and Arthur looked the same as ever. Well... perhaps just a bit older, as he had grown quite a bit as an Empire, but still relatively the same. And Nate couldn't take his eyes off of him. It was a little odd seeing something from the past so suddenly once more. And he also got to see England for the first time--Arthur's land, his roots. So, it was all a little strange to the state. That-- and he had always had a bit of a schoolboy shyness around Arthur. Even with his somewhat larger stature, he still felt that former sensation creeping in, especially when he noticed that Arthur was looking him over. Nate's face grew red and he fumbled a little with his greeting. "H-hello," he answered. The usually proud and confident Virginia was reduced to a bumbling idiot. Nice. Before he had the chance to say anything a bit more eloquent or proper, Arthur invited him in. Nate nodded slightly, feeling stupid, as he followed the Empire into his study. Along the way, he removed his hat and coat, draping the fabric over his arm. Just like before, he took in the details, the rich furnishings of England's study... God, this took him back... Some of the styles were similar to how Arthur had furnished his and Alfred's home back in Boston. He was distracted from his musings when Arthur began pouring himself a cup of tea. Nate watched from behind, briefly lowering his eyes to Arthur's backside. When he spoke again, Nate's eyes quickly averted and the flush in his cheeks deepened. "Y-yeah, tea is fine," he answered, voice just slightly strained. He paused at Arthur's next words. A small, reminiscent smile coming over the state. "Yeah, it has... Can't say that anyone thinks differently of you quite yet." Nate gave the smallest of shrugs, as if to say that he hoped that he wouldn't take offense to that. Alfred and the other states were stubborn and apparently liked to hold onto their grudges. To Nate, really, what's done is done and he didn't hold it against Arthur for trying to hold onto something that he cared about. That's not to say that Virginia wasn't in the forefront of the rebellion, as he and his men were some of the most passionate in fighting for what they believed in... just as he was now. Though this time it was for Southern rights and the freedom to be their own governing body. Alfred, in a sense, was now the 'Arthur' that they were fighting so many years ago... "As for why I'm here... what are your views concerning the war?" Nate watched the Empire, carefully taking note of his reaction. [/style] [style=color: #fff; text-shadow: 2px 2px 2px #404040; font-family: times new roman; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;]T A G: arthur/rye P L A C E & T I M E: london... november 27, 1861 N O T E S: wewt! [/style]

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[style=width: 416px;background-color: #b1b198; color: #989884; font-family: arial black; font-size: 9px; text-align: right; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; padding-top: 3px; letter-spacing: 4px; margin-bottom: -1px;]I DON'T NEED YOUR BLOODY HALO[/style][style=width: 416px;background-color: #b1b198; color: #d4d4b4; text-shadow: #814a4a 1px 1px 0px; font-family: georgia; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 15px; text-align: right; font-weight: bolder; text-indent: 2em; letter-spacing: 1px; margin-bottom: -3px;]can't you see i'm no one's angel[/style]

[atrb=style,border-top: 8px solid #333333; border-bottom: 8px solid #333333; border-left: 3px solid #b1b198; border-right: 3px solid #b1b198;][bg=7b3636][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,420,true][atrb=width,20%][atrb=vAlign,top] [style=width:100px; height: 100px; border: 3px solid #333333; opacity:0.9;filter:alpha(opacity=40); margin-left:3px; background-image: url(http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n222/amoline/479_zpsdfcc783b.png); -moz-border-radius-topright: 40px; -moz-border-radius-bottomleft: 40px;] [/style]   [style=width:100px; height: 100px; border: 3px solid #333333; opacity:0.9;filter:alpha(opacity=40); margin-left: 3px; background-image: url(http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n222/amoline/479_zpsdfcc783b.png); -moz-border-radius-topright: 40px; -moz-border-radius-bottomleft: 40px;] [/style]  [style=width:100px; height: 100px; border: 3px solid #333333; opacity:0.9;filter:alpha(opacity=40); margin-left: 3px; background-image: url(http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n222/amoline/479_zpsdfcc783b.png); -moz-border-radius-topright: 40px; -moz-border-radius-bottomleft: 40px;] [/style] [style=margin-right; 19px; margin-top: -360px; height: 375px; margin-left: 115px; margin-bottom: -5px; overflow:auto; background-color: #333333; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px; color: #e1dbc2; padding-top: 16px; padding-bottom: 19px; padding-right: 10px; padding-left: 10px; text-align: justify; -moz-border-radius-topleft: 10px; -moz-border-radius-topright: 10px;]Arthur internally raised his brow a little at Virginia’s edgy greeting. He sounded a little nervous despite having known England for most of his “childhood,” though with the current tensions going on coupled with this being the first time that they had seen each other in a long while, Arthur was quick to dismiss it. With that settled, he barely noticed the redness in Nate’s face. Even if he had, he probably would have been quick to dismiss that as well. However, noticing that Nate had removed his coat, he was quick to offer to take them. ”Here—allow me,” the request had barely passed his lips before taking the coat and hat from where it had been draped over Nate’s arm and putting them in its proper place near the foyer coat rack. As he readied the tea, he once more pondered over Nate’s odd response. The Virginia he had last seen was far more vocal than Arthur had certainly appreciated… so seeing this alternate, tense side of him was new to the Empire. ”Nor would I expect them to,” he responded, a harsh edge to his voice as he spoke. —Incessant cluster of unruly prats... He nearly added that to his statement, but held his tongue at the last moment. Virginia, here, probably wouldn’t appreciate the sentiment. Yes, Arthur still held some hard feelings for some of them in particular, but he didn’t take offense to Nate’s forthcoming words. ”No, I appreciate the honesty. I prefer that over pretty insincerity any day.” Turning back, he handed Nate his tea before retreating to the sitting area of his study, waving for the state to follow him. He took his seat onto one of the upholstered chairs, leaning into it just so, while still holding onto the same stiff politeness that had plagued this portion of British history. This time, Arthur really did raise an interested brow at Nate when he asked him about his view of their war. He savoured a thoughtful moment from his tea, while his eyes constantly remained on the state. ”My stance shouldn’t matter, as Alfred feels the need to ‘threaten’ the prospect of another supposed war if I involve myself. A war that would devastate him if he dares to engage in one with me.” Here, his lips twisted into an unpleasant smile as he glanced sharply at Nate. ”But I suppose you’d like that, wouldn’t you?” He leaned further into his seat, becoming a little more comfortable as his eyes refused to leave Nate’s, watching for any reaction. He was going to have his amusement as long as Nate was here, for it’s not every day that he received visitors that were even vaguely interesting. ”And why have you called for me? If I were to place a wager, it wouldn’t be to reminisce over fond memories of the past.” His voice was dripping with sarcasm, but was still in a conversational tone over a nasty one meant to insult. [/style]

[style=width: 416px; background-color: #b1b198; margin-top: -3px; color: #212121; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px;] words:: 683 ♠ tagged:: NATE ♠ notes :: XD [/style][style=font-family: courier new; letter-spacing: 4px; font-size: 10; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase;] template by synchronicity[/style]

[atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,300,true][atrb=cellspacing,0,true][atrb=background,http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n222/amoline/img_zps814978b7.png][atrb=style,padding: 10px; height: 350px;][atrb=vAlign,bottom] [style=color: #DEDEDE; text-shadow: #808080 1px 1px 1px; font-family: georgia; line-height: 80%; font-size: 20px; text-align: center; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: -2px; font-style: italic;]as the days keep turning into night[/style][style=color: #BCBDAC; text-shadow: #808080 1px 1px 1px; font-family: times new roman; letter-spacing: -1px; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; text-align: center;]I HAVE BEEN QUIETLY STANDING IN THE SHADE ALL MY DAYS WATCH THE SKY BREAKING ON THE PROMISE THAT WE MADE [/style] [style=padding: 30px 0px 30px 0px; color: #363636; font-family: arial; font-size: 10px; background-color: #E8E5D3; opacity: 0.8; filter:alpha(opacity=80); margin: 10px 15px 10px; float: center; padding: 10px; text-align: justify; height: 300px; width: 300px; align: center; overflow: auto;]Nate allowed Arthur to take his coat and hat, his eyes trailing behind as the nation left the parlor. Arthur did always like keeping things where they should be. He remembered that about him… just as he remembered several other details about the older nation. All in crystalline detail. In the meantime, Nate tried to relax, though it was obviously difficult, as he felt like he was going to have one hell of a time trying to convince an Empire to turn his attention favorably upon the Confederate States. Not when the current world powers were constantly looking to limit their competitors. Part of him calmed when Arthur stated between the lines that he hadn’t taken offense to his words and preferred them over nicer, false words. ”Ain’t it the truth,” Nate chuckled. He could sympathize there. Nate received the hot cup of tea with relish. Tea was one of the few things from his childhood that he continued to indulge in. Cold or hot. Either way with lots of sugar. So, even before having a seat in Arthur’s study, he was sure to drop three sugar cubes in the hot liquid, stirring and waiting for it to melt. Watching Arthur, Nate was actually pretty amused over how this era had apparently affected him. He seemed stiff… perhaps saying that Arthur was a little repressed as well was probably an understatement. How on earth had England of all nations, the same one that ran rampant like a wild teenager a little more than a century ago, managed to fit into such tight constraints within society? Taking a sip and setting his tea down, Nate gave Arthur a long look after he had spoken once more. There was a slight prick of guilt on Nate’s end following Arthur’s insinuation that he wanted Alfred to enter into a second war that would finish him. ”I would, actually,” Nate stated boldly, staring hard at the Empire. ”And I’ve thought quite a bit about that… war with you would certainly be devastating.” Here he smiled. Warmly and with the slight tilt of arrogance in his expression. ”I’m aware that the South already has the sympathies of several of the other European nations. If it weren’t for other complications involved, I’m sure that we’d gain aid.” He paused purposefully, allowing a little bit of silence as he drank more tea. He grinned at Arthur. ”And you’d win that wager. Otherwise—“ he stirred his tea, still waiting for the remnants of the sugar to dissolve, ”—I think you know why I’m here.” A half smile slipped over his features and his lazy gaze flicked over towards the nation. ”I am, curious, Arthur… why are you adhering to Alfred’s so-called threats? He’s weak at the moment... A war with him would surely limit his capabilities. You Empires are always looking to limit each other’s power. So, why hesitate with him?” Nate suspected the answer to that, but the part of him that wasn't completely sure was curious. [/style] [style=color: #fff; text-shadow: 2px 2px 2px #404040; font-family: times new roman; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;]T A G: arthur/rye P L A C E & T I M E: london... november 27, 1861 N O T E S: wewt! [/style]

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[style=width: 416px;background-color: #b1b198; color: #989884; font-family: arial black; font-size: 9px; text-align: right; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; padding-top: 3px; letter-spacing: 4px; margin-bottom: -1px;]I DON'T NEED YOUR BLOODY HALO[/style][style=width: 416px;background-color: #b1b198; color: #d4d4b4; text-shadow: #814a4a 1px 1px 0px; font-family: georgia; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 15px; text-align: right; font-weight: bolder; text-indent: 2em; letter-spacing: 1px; margin-bottom: -3px;]can't you see i'm no one's angel[/style]

[atrb=style,border-top: 8px solid #333333; border-bottom: 8px solid #333333; border-left: 3px solid #b1b198; border-right: 3px solid #b1b198;][bg=7b3636][atrb=border,0,true][atrb=width,420,true][atrb=width,20%][atrb=vAlign,top] [style=width:100px; height: 100px; border: 3px solid #333333; opacity:0.9;filter:alpha(opacity=40); margin-left:3px; background-image: url(http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n222/amoline/479_zpsdfcc783b.png); -moz-border-radius-topright: 40px; -moz-border-radius-bottomleft: 40px;] [/style]   [style=width:100px; height: 100px; border: 3px solid #333333; opacity:0.9;filter:alpha(opacity=40); margin-left: 3px; background-image: url(http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n222/amoline/479_zpsdfcc783b.png); -moz-border-radius-topright: 40px; -moz-border-radius-bottomleft: 40px;] [/style]  [style=width:100px; height: 100px; border: 3px solid #333333; opacity:0.9;filter:alpha(opacity=40); margin-left: 3px; background-image: url(http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n222/amoline/479_zpsdfcc783b.png); -moz-border-radius-topright: 40px; -moz-border-radius-bottomleft: 40px;] [/style] [style=margin-right; 19px; margin-top: -360px; height: 375px; margin-left: 115px; margin-bottom: -5px; overflow:auto; background-color: #333333; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px; color: #e1dbc2; padding-top: 16px; padding-bottom: 19px; padding-right: 10px; padding-left: 10px; text-align: justify; -moz-border-radius-topleft: 10px; -moz-border-radius-topright: 10px;]Arthur did have the curious feeling that Nate was watching him from the corner of his eye as he moved about the room, though for what reason, he had yet to find out. Perhaps the state was much more observant than he had originally given him credit for. No matter. Arthur wasn’t easily perturbed by such minor details, even if they did pick at his interest until he discovered the motive. Nate was right about one thing, however. Arthur was an Empire that preferred the ruthless over the gentle—he loved the notion of limiting the power of his competitors, namely those who were a threat to his own objectives. And rather lofty ones, at that. But still… Nathaniel was only a state and there was a certain desperation to his situation that Arthur was extremely comfortable with. Desperate people made desperate moves. It was like fresh blood to an empire. And oh, did Arthur smell it... He smiled serenely at Nate as he received his tea. The Victorian era is one that actually quite irritated Arthur... Although, he had to admit, that it had its uses. It had allowed him to perfect a masquerade of societal decorum, hiding intentions and foul words better left in secrecy, making it a tad bit easier to stab someone in the back. The far more important question wasn’t how he had managed to fit within such tight constraints, but why. In either case, eras came and went as easily as frivolous Parisian fashion trends… and this one would be over soon, Arthur was sure. He just had to adapt and endure for the time being. Arthur played his part and still managed to be the same tyrannical, haughty bastard beneath the image of the tipped top hat, double breasted frock coat of a Victorian gentleman. Green eyes moved distractedly over the three lumps of sugar that Nate had added to his own cup. Always added an excessive amount—just like his nation, or from the potential direction of his conversation, a nation that he wished to no longer be a part of. How ironic for Alfred. The thought made the corner of Arthur’s lip curl in silent amusement. What the Empire didn’t expect was for Nate to so boldly state his desire to end the conflict overseas in the most… well... efficient way possible. England’s smile waned and he gave Virginia a long, considering look. The boy was serious. Apparently just as passionate along with that same ridiculous rebellious streak that Arthur remembered from another so well barely even a century ago. His gaze hardened. He didn’t even feel the warmth of pride at Nate’s insinuation over what war with him meant, only a strange sort of tightening in his chest. One that he’d ignored for several decades now. Only now, after meeting one of the states—one that he hadn’t seen in a long while, made it all come back just a bit clearer. Arthur didn’t like it. He distracted himself, running his thumb very slowly down a hairline fracture within his teacup, not enough to be noticeable or detract from its usefulness, but still all too easily felt. ”I’m sure that you would gain the other’s support. They’d love to see that boy torn apart by his own unruly philosophies,” Arthur agreed halfheartedly, the words sounding dull as if the same thought had repeatedly swept across his mind as he watched his European neighbors act like the sophisticated beasts they really were. While Nate paused to drink his tea, Arthur delved into trying to ignore the heavier thoughts plaguing his mind. England reflected Nate’s smile, though it pained him. ”I do,” he admitted softly. Though his expression stiffened with resolve. For a brief moment, Arthur froze at Nate’s questions: why was he doing this for Alfred? Why hesitate? He could destroy him if he really wanted to... The Empire stared at Virginia, his expression blank, forced, like he was slipping once again behind that ever dutiful mask... ”And why would I tell you something like that when we have yet to discuss the details of your presence here? Cynicism and conceit dripped from Arthur's words, all while still wearing that stiff, formal expression. ”I’m afraid that my strategies and intentions are not open for discussion. Perhaps, then, Mr Corbett, you can enlighten me on what you have to offer—what you can even afford to even give me in exchange for brief consideration in return.” Arthur always did prefer to get to the cold, hard point in these arrangements. He had gone through far too many of these ‘negotiations’ to bother with the useless verbal garnishes. That—and perhaps the state was getting a little too confident with daring to ask such personal inquiries. [/style]

[style=width: 416px; background-color: #b1b198; margin-top: -3px; color: #212121; font-family: arial; font-size: 9px;] words:: 793 ♠ tagged:: NATE ♠ notes :: Arthur's hiding a lot of shit. xD[/style][style=font-family: courier new; letter-spacing: 4px; font-size: 10; text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase;] template by synchronicity[/style]