Summit at Gaia

[Omi]

The Taureau hung in low Gaia orbit, sheltered from the harsh glare of Edinburgh's twin suns. On the other side of the planet, the Castres continued to oversee the system's security, although by now, its once-vital duties were quickly becoming redundant. Few raiders ever made it through to Edinburgh these days, as most of Bretonia and her allies' efforts were focused on the Agincourt front line.

This, of course, was exactly why Lucie had selected Gaia as a venue. Not only was the view very pleasing, but the proximity to the Castres and Betheny would ensure her safety - as well as that of the ambassador. Without making the long trip back to Gallia proper, this was one of the most secure locations in the Gallic Occupied Territories.

Aboard the Toulouse itself, Lucie had had her office prepared for the administrator's arrival. Confidential documents had been sealed away, the panoramic shutters were open to reveal the unspoiled, verdant world below them, and a couple of gel-padded, state-of-the-art chairs had been arranged appropriately. She was still in full uniform, though, thinking that it looked rather imposing and grand.

Satisfied that everything had been in order, Lucie had made her way to the back of the ship, towards what used to be a full-sized cargo hold. The Toulouse was heavily modified, of course, and part of the hold had been retrofitted as a makeshift docking bay, big enough to accommodate anything smaller than a gunboat. The ambassador had mentioned the word "shuttle", which brought to mind a small sort of vessel, but in the event of him arriving in a fully-fledged Liner, she had ordered an Aurochs to be on standby, as well.

In short, everything was as prepared as the General could get it, and the appointed hour for the meeting had arrived. Therefore, Lucie strode imperiously towards the back of the ship, flanked by two Royal Marines. The shuttle would surely arrive any minute now.

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