NationStates Jolt Archive

National Broadcasting Channel

"Hello, I'm Ivan Narminov with a special report from the Kremlin brought to you by NBC.

"Today, the Minister of Culture, Sir Charles Camille Saint-Saens, is making an announcement of what he says is a 'massive step in the direction of freedom.'" Ivan looks to his own right to see the producer give a thumbs-up, when he turns back to the camera.

"And here's the Minister in the Kremin Press Room."
========================
Kremlin Press Room, Kremlin Palace: Rekjyavich-Andropov Military City

"Citizens of Derscon and people of the world,

For centuries the Eternal Empire, the Divine Prussian Empire of Derscon, has kept tight control over religious expression in order to keep a moral society respectful in the eyes of the world and in Jesus Christ. As the world as slipped down the moral slope, being taken over by Satanic influences, the Eternal Empire has stood strong, the holy Czar, the Sultan of the Eternal Empire, keeping a firm shield up, protecting Derscon from Satanic and foreign influences.

"However, in the quest for a holy society, protected from Satanic influence, the Czars have destroyed things that do not hurt society. One of these has been the abolition of all religion except Christianity. It was one hundred years ago that Czar Ivan Rekjyavich Andropov I finally allowed all forms of Christianity to be legal. It was his son that allowed Abrahamic religions to exist, and it was Ivan Rekjyavich Andropov the Third that allowed all religions to exist. However, the law stayed the same -- only Christians could become citizens.

"Alexei Alexandrovich Andropov XIV, Sultan of the Eternal Empire, Czar of the Divine Prussian Empire of Derscon, has issued the order, after several hours of debating within the Guardian Council, that the Jewish religion shall recieve full legal status alongside all forms of Christianity, and from here on out all Jews are eligible for citizenship.

"However, that is not all. For over a thousand years, Derscon has closed itself off from the outside world, not allowing foreigners to even enter the nation. It wasn't until fifty-some years ago under the reign of Czar Ivan Rekjyavich Andropov II that Derscon removed itself from its isolationist state, allowing some embassies and allying itself with other nations. However, travel was still restricted.

"Because of this barrier, the world has pictured Derscon as a vile and dangerous place, which is far from the truth. Henceforth, the Czar, along with a unanamous decision from the Guardian Council, has legalized foreign travel, and has authorized the Dersconi Foreign Ministry to offer visas to foreign travellers. However, admittance will still be very strict and limiting.

"As of now, all citizens of the Greater Prussian Empire may apply for visas by contacting the Foreign Ministry directly. All citizens of the nations of Reichskamphen and Pschycotic Pschycos may enter Derscon without a visa, but a passport is still required.

"Non-Greater Prussian nations may apply for a visa through the consulate or Embassy, should the nation possess one. If a nation does not have a Dersconi consulate or Embassy, no citizens may travel to Derscon. However, if a nation wishes to establish an embassy exchange with Derscon, it is requested that the Head of Government, State, or the Foreign Minister contact Count Franz von Papen, the Dersconi Foreign Minister, directly.

"Also, foreign press will be allowed into Derscon, but MUST obtain permission to enter the nation from the Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of State Security, or they will be arrested.

"Also, the Dersconi policy not to honour international law, specifically diplomatic immunity, still stands, however the leniency will stay.

God Bless, and Deo Vindice."

:eek:

For those of you who don't know him, this is pretty big. I do think though, that openning borders to those outside of the empire is a bad idea.

:eek:

For those of you who don't know him, this is pretty big. I do think though, that openning borders to those outside of the empire is a bad idea.

OOC: Please mark your OOC comments with the header OOC. And if that was an IC comment, make it more official-looking, please. :p :D

OOC: What's the name and title of the official or leader the embassy requests should be addressed to?

OOC: What's the name and title of the official or leader the embassy requests should be addressed to?

OOC: Count Franz von Papen, Foreign Minister to the Czar.

To: His Excellency, Count Von Papen, Foreign Minister of His Imperial Majesty's Government
From: Abraham Goldfarb, Foreign Minister of His Most Esteemed High Majesty's Government

Your Excellency,
The Danaan people and their government naturally applaud your decision to grant recognition to the Jewish faith. It has long been our opinion that a thorough-going freedom of religion is not only not harmful but is actively beneficial towards the promotion of public morality.

We are interested in exchanging embassies with your nation. It is true that we have had no contact in the past with your nation or any other in the Greater Prussian Empire. It is also true, and we acknowledge this frankly at the outset, that our government holds many opinions contrary to the stated opinions of the Empire and of Derscon specifically. Nonetheless, it is our conviction that open lines of communication between nations can only be beneficial and that diplomacy is the preferred solution to any issues that might arise between nations.

As for the lack of diplomatic immunity and extraterritoriality, this poses no difficulty for us. We do not encourage our diplomats to violate the laws of the nations where they reside. The one guarantee we do require is that Danaan diplomats not be prosecuted for stating the opinion of the Danaan government, even if such opinion would constitute sedition under Dersconi law if spoken by a Dersconi citizen.

Sincerely,
Abraham Goldfarb

OOC: THis post will suck, but I'm dead tired, so you'll have to excuse me.
================================
To: His Excellency, Count Von Papen, Foreign Minister of His Imperial Majesty's Government
From: Abraham Goldfarb, Foreign Minister of His Most Esteemed High Majesty's Government

Your Excellency,
The Danaan people and their government naturally applaud your decision to grant recognition to the Jewish faith. It has long been our opinion that a thorough-going freedom of religion is not only not harmful but is actively beneficial towards the promotion of public morality.

We are interested in exchanging embassies with your nation. It is true that we have had no contact in the past with your nation or any other in the Greater Prussian Empire. It is also true, and we acknowledge this frankly at the outset, that our government holds many opinions contrary to the stated opinions of the Empire and of Derscon specifically. Nonetheless, it is our conviction that open lines of communication between nations can only be beneficial and that diplomacy is the preferred solution to any issues that might arise between nations.

As for the lack of diplomatic immunity and extraterritoriality, this poses no difficulty for us. We do not encourage our diplomats to violate the laws of the nations where they reside. The one guarantee we do require is that Danaan diplomats not be prosecuted for stating the opinion of the Danaan government, even if

such opinion would constitute sedition under Dersconi law if spoken by a Dersconi citizen.

Sincerely,
Abraham Goldfarb

To: Abraham Goldfarb, Foreign Minister of His Most Esteemed High Majesty's Government
From: Count Franz von Papen, Foreign Minister to the Czar of Derscon

Minister Goldfarb,

We graciously thank you for your commendation. While the Czar as well as the majority of the Dersconi people feel that there must be some restriction on religions that are not founded on the word of the One True God, there is no sense on restricting those religions that do follow it. However, change must be taken slow. Our Great Czar, Alexei Alexandrovich Andropov, has already made many great triumphs in the place of civil rights, but Dersconis are a very, very conservative peoples, and too much at once can be catastrophic.

After consulting it with the Minister of Defense, the Minister of State Security, and the Holy Czar, Sultan of the Eternal Empire Himself, we have agreed to exchange embassies with your nation. We currently have a five acre lot being reserved to style, survey, construct, and decorate at your choosing, as long, of course, that there are no anti-Derscon banners or other forms of openly anti-Dersconi banners. While the International City is a gated area to protect the embassies from the many Nationalist groups that are abound in Derscon, if one openly insults and deflames the nation, even the gates will not hold back the mobs.

We are glad to know that diplomats are held accountable for their actions. Few nations do this. And you should have no problems with your speech. Freedom of speech is a well-protected right in Derscon. Granted, one is not allowed to call for the fall of Derscon or the death of the Czar, as that is treason, but other than that, there are no restrictions on speech. So as long as your government is not openly hostile to Derscon, there will be no difficulties.

I pray that the Lord watches over Derscon and REsurgent Dream, and may this exchange bring continued good relations between our nations.

God Bless,

Franz von Papen

While the exact wording of parts of the Dersconi Minister's missive were troubling, it did constitute an acceptance of everything the Danaans had asked for. Correspondingly, the little details were worked out over the next couple months and Ambassador Samuel Leuenberger was arriving with his family to set up shop. He looked over at his wife, Debra, a woman slightly younger than himself whose blonde hair was just getting its first touch of grey. Debra smiled at him but Leuenberger was slightly nervous, for the first time in his career. He knew that Derscon was not a nation hostile to the Resurgent Dream and that good relations were even possible. However, he also knew he wasn't going to a friendly nation in the same sense as he had on previous assignments to allied states. The warnings on the Dersconi Minister's letter made it seem as though a large section of the local populaton was hostile to all foreigners. The security, diplomatic staff, and other embassy personnel were already here and waiting for him at the embassy. It was just the family coming now. The pilot radioed local air control, requesting clearance to land.

Dear Count Franz von Papen, Foreign Minister to the Czar:


We of Constitutionals, being a peace loving people, freedom loving people, applaud your decision. We would be interested in opening up trade with you and sending you an ambassador. Please send us a telegram if this is desirable.

Sincerely,

Brothar Luftan

Minister of Forign Affairs.

Emperor Napoleon relayed his personal approval to the Czar and the Guardian Council via telegram:

"I am very pleased with the progress that the nation of Derscon is making. Perhaps these steps could signal the international rise of Derscon as a great player in world affairs, and along with it the Empire of Greater Prussia.

God Save the Arch Chancellor, God Save the Tsar!

His Imperial Highness,
Napoleon IV
Emperor of Greater Prussia

OOC: The Resurgent Dream, when you said that everyone was already waiting for him at the embassy, that's a godmode, since Derscon still has many security procedures. However, it's a very minor one, so I don't give a crap at the moment. Just notifying you. Derscon is very security-concious.
=========================================
Emperor Napoleon relayed his personal approval to the Czar and the Guardian Council via telegram:

"I am very pleased with the progress that the nation of Derscon is making. Perhaps these steps could signal the international rise of Derscon as a great player in world affairs, and along with it the Empire of Greater Prussia.

God Save the Arch Chancellor, God Save the Tsar!

His Imperial Highness,
Napoleon IV
Emperor of Greater Prussia

Dear Napoleon,

God save yourself! All of that patriotic fevour in a personal letter will raise your blood pressure! Thank you for your backing, though.

God Bless,

Alexei
====================
The Czar of Derscon and Arch-Chancellor of the Greater Prussian Empire folded up the letter and put it in the envelope, an aide taking it to the courier to Reichskamphen. "You know, John," Alexei said, turning to his brother. "I never could understand why Napoleon was so formal in his personal letters." John shrugged.

"He's just never had a glass of good Dersconi Vodka, that's all." Alexei nodded.

"That must be it."
====================
Central Air Control, Rekjyavich-Andropov Military City, Derscon

"Sir," the young sergeant called out to the on-duty officer, in this case, a Lieutenant-Colonel. "Western Command is picking up signals and radio. Diplomatic mission."

"Right, Defense called ahead and said they'd be coming."

"Okay, sir. They will be entering Dersconi Airspace in five minutes."
====================
Dersconi Sea

The Resurgent Dream's VIP jet was just about in Dersconi Airspace when five F-22 Raptors came out of the clouds and intercepted the plane.

TRD VIP Flight, I am Major Anubis Xoratov, and I will be your guide into
Derscon. Please follow my group, as all guardsmen in the defense towers are
paid to be paranoid, and having a VIP jet shot down for venturing away from
the desegnated path is something no one needs at the moment.

Our flight will take us to Rekjyavich-Andropov Military City, the capital of Derscon,
where you will be fully breifed on security procedures by a member of the government.
Afterwards, you will switch jets to a Dersconi military executive jet and be escorted
to the International City Airport, the Embassy sector. Afterwords, you're no
longer in the air, so I don't have any further information.

It's about a three hour flight, so just keep close.
==============================
Dear Count Franz von Papen, Foreign Minister to the Czar:


We of Constitutionals, being a peace loving people, freedom loving people, applaud your decision. We would be interested in opening up trade with you and sending you an ambassador. Please send us a telegram if this is desirable.

Sincerely,

Brothar Luftan

Minister of Forign Affairs.

To: Brothar Luftan
From: Count Franz von Papen, Foreign Minister to the Czar

His Majesty thanks you for his support. As for trade, economic free trade has not yet been put on the table to be opened up. However, an embassy exchange is a viable plan.

-- Franz

((OOC: Sorry. Since I wasn't trying to sneak anything past security, I thought we could skip doing all the red tape in detail. Either way's fine though.))

"Roger that." Captain Ruth Leuthard answered over the radio. The Danaan plane did in fact fly with its escort and in the assigned flight path. Like the ambassador, the pilot was rather nervous about this trip. Of course, as a trained pilot she was hardly in the habit of veering off course any more than the ambassador was in the habit of insulting host nations. What was cause for a good measure of nervousness was the overwhelming sense that with the paranoia of the locals screwing up here would have much worse consequences than a similar mistake would in many, if not most, other countries.
...
Meanwhile, the Dersconi Foreign Ministry had been sent the blueprints and locations of a number of options for the Dersconi Embassy in Tarana, the Danaan capital. Most of them were near other embassies but there didn't seem to be a formal foreign sector. All of the buildings were sound, large, and lent themselves easily to security procedures, though none of them seemed to have actually been built or selected with defense in mind.

((OOC: Sorry. Since I wasn't trying to sneak anything past security, I thought we could skip doing all the red tape in detail. Either way's fine though.))

OOC: Eh, good point. :)

Oh, and Derscon RPs as PMT and FT, btw, so you'll see some stuff that MT/PMT simply won't have.
==============================
"Roger that." Captain Ruth Leuthard answered over the radio. The Danaan plane did in fact fly with its escort and in the assigned flight path. Like the ambassador, the pilot was rather nervous about this trip. Of course, as a trained pilot she was hardly in the habit of veering off course any more than the ambassador was in the habit of insulting host nations. What was cause for a good measure of nervousness was the overwhelming sense that with the paranoia of the locals screwing up here would have much worse consequences than a similar mistake would in many, if not most, other countries.

Rekjyavich-Andropov Military City, Derscon

Just outside the city walls, the four Raptors guided the executive jet to Runway seven, where clearly visible AAA towers were looming menacingly over the airport -- and that didn't include the AAA batteries in between the runways. The RAMC Spaceport could be seen a little ways down, guarded by what amounted to AAA guns, only powerful enough to take a spacecraft down instead of a regular plane.

As the plane landed, it was clear that it would not be a ceremonious arrival. The jet came to a full stop and the walkway connected with the jet as ten Marines walked through and boarded the plane, approaching the ambassador. The Captain saluted.

"Good afternoon, sir. Right this way." The Marines were armed with the XM-30B, the core of the Force Warrior system that was now completely operational -- it was just waiting for the Dersconi army to finally be reorganized to be implemented.

As they travelled through the airport, one could see various government officials catching and unboarding flights, and the security -- all armed with XM8's, the standard Dersconi Army rifle -- floating about, not really looking for troublemakers, since they were so rare in Derscon. Airport duty was more of a break-tour. Most people that return from combat get airport security duty as a relaxation job. However, in their black and grey uniforms and fully loaded rifles, they kept troublemakers' actions to themselves. The Captain led the team through the VIP section that didn't go through security, and then down into the tunnel under the ground.

As they walked, fully armored (and armed) soldiers were seen patrolling the underground tunnels of the complex. The Captain turned to the ambassador. "Sorry for the inconvienence of walking, but the shuttles are in matenence. I tried to get a golf cart or something, but evidentally they're actually being used on the golf course on the other side of the city."

Finally, after about a ten minute walk, they arrived at a door guarded by members of the Praesillei Dei the elite soldiers of the Czar's private army. The Army is only numbered at fifty thousand personnel -- the size of, in the old organization, a brigade -- but with their training, genetic, biological, and mental enhancements, as well as an indoctrinated devotion to the Czar, training simulations have been done where the Praesillei Dei have wiped out an entire [old organization] Division, which usually numbered in at around one million soldiers.

They were good, but they were mostly guardsmen, as they were now. The Marine saluted the Praesillei Dei Guardsmen, who returned the salute.

"We'll take it from here," the Guardsman on the right said through the helmet. The Marines nodded and continued down the tunnel, as the door the Praesillei Dei were guarding opened and two more appeared.

"This way --" The Praesillei Dei were not known for they're nicieties -- "Sir."

After massive manoeuvreings through more tunnels, they finally arrived at the base of Kremlin Palace, where they were greeted by Honor Guards -- massive, seven foot aliens in red and gold glowing armor with big, pointy staves that cut through concrete. The strange door they were guarded...dissipated?!?...and the ambassador was led through the opening in the wall into the Grande Hall.

THe Grande Halle was designed a perfect sphere, with energy platforms coming from points in the sphere where doors were located. At the top was a massive mural of the Ressurection of Jesus Christ. In the center, though, there was a painting of the Gates of Heaven, two angels with firey swords standing guard. The Praesillei Dei snapped his fingers and an energy platform appeared under their feet, and it levitated upwards to the top of the roof.

Suddenly, the roof split right down the middle of the painting of the Gates of Heaven, and the energy platform went through the dark hole, and the floor closed under them, and the lights turned on.

They were in the Imperial Hall. The section where they were at was an ellipse, with Honor Guards all around it. In front of them was a long hallway with twelve marble columns with the names of all the Czars of Derscon, and in between each column, a Praetorian Guardsman stood, with his titanium/diamond armor, sword, titanium/diamond shield, and rifle. They were the elite of the Praesillei Dei -- there were only twenty Praetorian Guard. The purpose of them was self-evident.

At the end of the hallway were thick oak doors, which the Ambassador went through, guided by a Praetorian Guard this time, and he was finally led into the Star Office, where the entire nation of Derscon was run.

Behind the massive desk sat Alexei Alexandrovich Andropov XIV, Czar of the Divine Prussian Empire of Derscon, Sultan of the Eternal Empire, and Arch-Chancellor of the Greater Prussian Empire. Behind him were four cloaked and masked figures whose purpose was to guard, but no one has ever seen them in action. The guards -- minus the cloaked ones in the back -- were all dismissed, and Alexei smiled warmly.

"Welcome to Derscon, Samuel. Please, take a seat."
=================================
Meanwhile, the Dersconi Foreign Ministry had been sent the blueprints and locations of a number of options for the Dersconi Embassy in Tarana, the Danaan capital. Most of them were near other embassies but there didn't seem to be a formal foreign sector. All of the buildings were sound, large, and lent themselves easily to security procedures, though none of them seemed to have actually been built or selected with defense in mind.

Guardian Council Room, Kremlin Palace, RAMC

"Hmm, none of these are viable for defensive positions," Minister of State Security Yurii Golovko stated.

"It is an embassy, Yurii, not a military base," Foreign Minister Count Franz von Papen retorted.

"And? Don't tell me that there's never been an invasion of an embassy," Golovko barked. "If it was up to me, I'd pick a plot of land and build the building myself." Franz sighed.

"Well, I'll see what I can do, but I don't think I can get an empty plot of land to build on with Dersconi workers and products as Derscon offers all other nations. So keep looking."
===================
To: Abraham Goldfarb
From: Franz von Papen
Subj: Embassy

Dear Mr. Goldfarb,

While we thank you for your offering of currently selected buildings, the Ministers have not found an entirely suitable building for the Dersconi Embassy. To avoid this problem in Derscon, the Dersconi government simply gives the land to the construction of the embassy, and allows the construction of the nation's embassy to be completely carried out by their own workers and designers, as to allow a sort of expression in national architecture.

The Guardian Council asks you if it would be acceptable to offer the same deal that we give foreign ambassadors.

Please take our request into consideration.

God Bless,

Franz von Papen

Samuel stood as they arrived, helping Debra up. "Here we are, honey." he said with a slight smile.

He returned the greetings of all the officers in kind. "Good afternoon, Captain." Samuel responded. After they had gone some ways, the captain apologized for the inconvenience of having to walk. "It's no inconvenience at all." Samuel answered him. He did find the structures he was being led through and the many soldiers (including the aliens) to be impressive and intimidating, which was doubtless the intent. Nonetheless, a trained diplomat develops a good poker face early on and Samuel seemed perfectly at ease. Debra, on the other hand, couldn't help giving a worried glance at some of the strange guards and her husband squeezed her hand reassuringly.

Finally, they were before the Czar and they bowed appropriately. Samuel sat as instructed. "It is a pleasure to be here, Your Imperial Majesty."
...
Captain Leuthard and the rest of the plane's crew were awaiting instructions on what security procedures they were to go through and where to bunk for the night. Simply getting off the plane didn't seem like a wise option here.
...
Your Excellency,

We have no objection in principle to this request. However, locating and obtaining appropriate lands for such a purpose will take time. While we will grant this request, it will create a necessary delay in the establishment of your embassy. We will send information on available land in short order.

Sincerely,
Abraham Goldfarb

Samuel stood as they arrived, helping Debra up. "Here we are, honey." he said with a slight smile.

He returned the greetings of all the officers in kind. "Good afternoon, Captain." Samuel responded. After they had gone some ways, the captain apologized for the inconvenience of having to walk. "It's no inconvenience at all." Samuel answered him. He did find the structures he was being led through and the many soldiers (including the aliens) to be impressive and intimidating, which was doubtless the intent. Nonetheless, a trained diplomat develops a good poker face early on and Samuel seemed perfectly at ease. Debra, on the other hand, couldn't help giving a worried glance at some of the strange guards and her husband squeezed her hand reassuringly.

Finally, they were before the Czar and they bowed appropriately. Samuel sat as instructed. "It is a pleasure to be here, Your Imperial Majesty."

The Czar nodded. "THe pleasure is mine. So, how do you like Derscon?" As he waited for the answer, Prince John, the brother of the Czar (they were only twenty-four and twenty-six, respectively) entered with a bottle of Napoleon Cognac Reserve. Ever since they were taken off the market, a single bottle could be worth anywhere from one hundred to one million dollars.

"Would any of you like a drink? We have here at the Kremlin one of the largest alchohol cellars in the world, plus John here is a master at the mixed drink. We have some fine Chardonnay or Champaigne, also, or, if you'd prefer non-alchoholic, we offer Birch Beer, which you can only find here in Derscon. It's quite good, in my opinion. Vodka is also an option."

==============================================

Captain Leuthard and the rest of the plane's crew were awaiting instructions on what security procedures they were to go through and where to bunk for the night. Simply getting off the plane didn't seem like a wise option here.

The two Marines still there were actually waiting for the pilots to get off, but after realizing that they weren't, they boarded the plane and entered the cockpit.

"Captain Leuthard, you and your crew all have rooms at the RAMC Hotel in the city itself. It's rated at five stars, so I have no doubt that you'll find it comfortable. You have a few vehicles waiting for you outside. We will take you there."

The two Marines took the crew down to the chain of Cadellac Escalades and loaded them in the SUVs with their miniscule luggage as they headed through the huge city gates into the hotel, where two bellhops -- who were actually employed by the MSS -- took them to their rooms.

=======================
Your Excellency,

We have no objection in principle to this request. However, locating and obtaining appropriate lands for such a purpose will take time. While we will grant this request, it will create a necessary delay in the establishment of your embassy. We will send information on available land in short order.

Sincerely,
Abraham Goldfarb

Mr. Abraham,

Thank you for accepting our request. We are in no rush at the moment, so it is not an inconvienence. Again, thank you.

God Bless,
Count Franz von Papen
================
OOC: The bed beckons..... ZZZZzzzzzzz

International Herald

Ekaterinburg, Derscon

In the city which proclaims itself to be the Eastern Orthodox capital of Derscon, over ten thousand demonstrators gathered in Romanov Square today to protest the official recognition of Judaism, calling it a "heretic move by the Czar."

"Derscon was founded on the basis of Christianity and only Christianity," one protestor told the International Herald.

"How could the Czar do this?" Another protestor was heard saying. "He is betraying Christ by endorsing the Jews!"

In an interview with the Schutzstaffel commander here, Major-General Alexis Kaminsky, he shrugged it off.

"The protestors know that as long as they don't get violent, they can say whatever they want, as long as they don't call for the death of the Czar, the nation, or the Greater Prussian Empire. Anything else is free game. I have ordered some soldiers there, but it's only to maintain order. They will not fire unless fired upon."

Some residents of Ekaterinburg were also outspoken -- but not against the Jews.

"I think that this is absolutely rediculous," one resident was saying. "The only main difference between Judaism and Christianity is the belief as Christ as our Lord and Saviour. This open hostility is shameful."

Clearly, opinion is mixed, but in a nationwide poll, over half the population supports the measure, and about 45% not caring. The other five percent, though, seem to be the very very loud minority.

"I haven't seen much of it so far." Samuel answered. "I only arrived a moment ago." He smiled at the offer of a drink. "I'd love some."

"I'm good." Debra said, smiling lightly.

"I haven't seen much of it so far." Samuel answered. "I only arrived a moment ago." He smiled at the offer of a drink. "I'd love some."

"I'm good." Debra said, smiling lightly.

Prince John poured three glasses of Napoleon Cognac Reserve and gave one to Samuel, Alexei, and himself.

"Ah, true," Alexei nodded. "You really can't see Derscon in a day. Heck, it takes a few years," he added, smiling. "It's unfortunate that you had to be troubled by the security here, but Dersconis are very untrustworthy of foreigners. Well, some are. Hospitality here is some of the best around, and trust me, we are all nice people, but we've grown accustomed to being stabbed in the back."

"It's our heritage," Prince John chimed in, smirking. Alexei chuckled a bit and turned back to Ambassador Leuenberger.

"So, Mr. Leuenberger, I'm curious -- and be honest. What do you think your ambassadorship here in Derscon will be like?"

Samuel took a sip, pondering slightly. "I'm not entirely sure what to expect to be honest. I was briefed with all the information we have available on your country but we truly have had very little even indirect contact. We do know that Derscon is a nation which strongly values morality and religion, both of which are highly valued in the Resurgent Dream. However, as you asked me to be candid, I must also admit that we are aware that Derscon has in the past found itself at cross purposes with a number of nations friendly to the Resurgent Dream."

Samuel shrugged slightly. "I do think this is a good time for diplomacy. Except for the Reich's criminal and unChristian attack on Syskeyia and the civil war in the Five Kingdoms, the world has been free of any major wars for the recent period. It is certainly much more peaceful than the international scene has been in decades. I cannot think of a more auspicious period in history to be opening new diplomatic channels."

Debra settled next to her husband. She seemed relatively content to listen to the men talk for the moment.

Samuel took a sip, pondering slightly. "I'm not entirely sure what to expect to be honest. I was briefed with all the information we have available on your country but we truly have had very little even indirect contact. We do know that Derscon is a nation which strongly values morality and religion, both of which are highly valued in the Resurgent Dream. However, as you asked me to be candid, I must also admit that we are aware that Derscon has in the past found itself at cross purposes with a number of nations friendly to the Resurgent Dream."

A slight smirk formed on the Czar's face. "Derscon tends to be at cross purposes with just about everyone but itself, for God-knows how many reasons. Do elabourate, though, I'm interested."

Samuel shrugged slightly. "I do think this is a good time for diplomacy. Except for the Reich's criminal and unChristian attack on Syskeyia and the civil war in the Five Kingdoms, the world has been free of any major wars for the recent period. It is certainly much more peaceful than the international scene has been in decades. I cannot think of a more auspicious period in history to be opening new diplomatic channels."

The Czar stared impassively as Samuel went on. Did you expect different? he thought to himself. He's a diplomat, of course he's going to go through this bullshit.

"I couldn't agree more," the Czar responded. "I must say, though, the longer the civil war goes on in the Five Kingdoms, the better. If Melkor ever gets his act together, he might actually come after Greater Prussia for it's withdraw from METUS -- specifically me, for being the son of the person who orchestrated it." He shrugged. "I don't expect that to happen, though. Greater Prussia is stronger than ever before. Anyways, enough of my rants, it bores the both of us." He took another sip of the wine, thought a moment, and continued.

"So, what made The Resurgent Dream decide to have diplomatic ties with Derscon?"

Leuenberger shrugged slightly. "It is nothing particularly current." He took another sip of his wind. "I do understand your interests with regard to the Five Kingdoms." he continued, moving on to the next topic. "Nonetheless, I think that continuous war would be in no one's interest. I believe it would be overly pessimistic to act as though the only choices were continued war or a reconsolidation of Melkor's power. It is the fervent hope of myself and of my country that Melkor lose the civl war. While an ideal situation would involve the establishment of the rule of law, we would consider even an Althalon military dictatorship preferable to the continued reign of the demon."

Debra spoke substantively for the first time. "He is a demon from Hell, Your Majesty. Perhaps it's not very realistic from a geopolitical standpoint but...I cannot believe God will allow the continued prosperity of that being."

Samuel gave a half-bemused, half-approving smile to his wife. "Perhaps, but God's ways are mysterious and I would not presume to second guess them either way." He turned back to the Czar. "Religion aside, I do believe there's good reason to believe the rebel forces, with some of the help that might be expected from certain quarters, do stand a chance."

Leuenberger shrugged slightly. "It is nothing particularly current." He took another sip of his wind. "I do understand your interests with regard to the Five Kingdoms." he continued, moving on to the next topic. "Nonetheless, I think that continuous war would be in no one's interest. I believe it would be overly pessimistic to act as though the only choices were continued war or a reconsolidation of Melkor's power. It is the fervent hope of myself and of my country that Melkor lose the civl war. While an ideal situation would involve the establishment of the rule of law, we would consider even an Althalon military dictatorship preferable to the continued reign of the demon."

"Obviously, I was exaggerating the threat a bit, but I believe The Five Kingdoms' state of civil war should be preserved as long as possible as to utterly destroy the nation. So even if Melkor does retain power, he will rule over nothing and can command nothing. But I agree, any rule is better than MElkor's."

Debra spoke substantively for the first time. "He is a demon from Hell, Your Majesty. Perhaps it's not very realistic from a geopolitical standpoint but...I cannot believe God will allow the continued prosperity of that being."

"Incorrect," Prince John retorted, he himself being a preacher. "Lucifer is the Prince of the Earth, remember? He can do whatever he damn-well pleases, minus stealing your soul."

Samuel gave a half-bemused, half-approving smile to his wife. "Perhaps, but God's ways are mysterious and I would not presume to second guess them either way." He turned back to the Czar. "Religion aside, I do believe there's good reason to believe the rebel forces, with some of the help that might be expected from certain quarters, do stand a chance."

"To be honest," Alexei admitted. "I haven't been paying attention -- I simply don't care. As long as The Five Kingdoms is in a state of civil war, they pose no threat to humanity. Obviously, I hope the rebels win in the end, but I hope that fight lasts for another millenia. Yes, it's not a very Christian-like thought, but every other part of me says that's the best solution.

"However," Alexei continued. "The Five Kingdoms is inconsequential at this point. And you still haven't answered my question. PRobably a slip of mind, though."

"There would be nothing in such an answer beyond publically available information. There is certainly nothing which should exceed your government's information on your own foreign policy." Leuenberger said calmly.

Debra opened her mouth to respond to the prince but her husband looked at her sharply. The woman nodded to the prince. "I would not question your judgment, Your Highness."

Samuel shrugged slightly, taking another sip of his drink.

"There would be nothing in such an answer beyond publically available information. There is certainly nothing which should exceed your government's information on your own foreign policy." Leuenberger said calmly.

"Point taken," the Czar responded.

Debra opened her mouth to respond to the prince but her husband looked at her sharply. The woman nodded to the prince. "I would not question your judgment, Your Highness."

The Prince smiled. "No, go ahead, say it. We have a saying in the Star Office: 'Leave diplomacy at the door.' Basically, everyone is welcome to speak their mind, and we won't hold it against them. Unless you openly threaten Derscon with war, obviously, but I don't think that will come up!" the Prince said with a grin.

Samuel turned to the prince with a polite smile. "My wife and I are both members of the National Protestant Church, one of the largest Christian churches in the Resurgent Dream and, in many people's opinion, one of the most conservative. Among other things, we do take very seriously some of the Apostle Paul's directives regarding the role of women in the Church." He smiled indulgently at his wife. "However, I don't think it would hurt to say what's on your mind in a private conversation, honey."

Debra nodded and looked to the prince herself. "Well, Your Highness, to be honest I'm not that sure Satan has such a free hand. The Bible does tell of great power over worldly matters being given unto Satan. Prince of Earth does sound right, though I can't recall where the term is used in Scripture off the top of my head. However, all of Satan's power exists in the context of God's absolute sovereignty over all creation, material and spiritual, and the perfection and certainty of God's plan. Our preacher back home didn't dwell too often on the prophecies of the end days but, if I recall correctly, earthly government doesn't come under the direct control of Lucifer until the Tribulation, and even then the Anti-Christ is only indwelt by Satan for the second half of the seven year period. Satan can't change that and take control before the Rapture. He can't cancel God's plan."

Samuel paused and looked to his wife with some interest. He seemed unused to her talking about things like this. "It might just be a difference in how denominations interpret the relevent verses. There are many differences of opinion between good Christians. Even Peter and Paul disagreed on whether or not the dietary laws of the Old Covenent were binding for Christians, until the Lord clarified the matter in a vision."

Samuel turned to the prince with a polite smile. "My wife and I are both members of the National Protestant Church, one of the largest Christian churches in the Resurgent Dream and, in many people's opinion, one of the most conservative. Among other things, we do take very seriously some of the Apostle Paul's directives regarding the role of women in the Church."

The Czar raised his eyebrows. "Wow, I am impressed. Most people find the conservative Christians...backwards...to say the least. I'm glad you have stood strong."

Debra nodded and looked to the prince herself. "Well, Your Highness, to be honest I'm not that sure Satan has such a free hand. The Bible does tell of great power over worldly matters being given unto Satan. Prince of Earth does sound right, though I can't recall where the term is used in Scripture off the top of my head. However, all of Satan's power exists in the context of God's absolute sovereignty over all creation, material and spiritual, and the perfection and certainty of God's plan. Our preacher back home didn't dwell too often on the prophecies of the end days but, if I recall correctly, earthly government doesn't come under the direct control of Lucifer until the Tribulation, and even then the Anti-Christ is only indwelt by Satan for the second half of the seven year period. Satan can't change that and take control before the Rapture. He can't cancel God's plan."

"That's assuming you mean that you are to take seven years as literal and believe in a rapture," Prince John chimed in. "But correct, Lucifer cannot take control outside of the boundaries God set forth."

Samuel paused and looked to his wife with some interest. He seemed unused to her talking about things like this. "It might just be a difference in how denominations interpret the relevent verses. There are many differences of opinion between good Christians. Even Peter and Paul disagreed on whether or not the dietary laws of the Old Covenent were binding for Christians, until the Lord clarified the matter in a vision."

"It's too bad the Lord won't come down and clarify everything else!" The Prince said jokingly through sips of peach vodka.

Samuel nodded a little. "I'm sure some people back home do. However, I am fortunate in that most Danaans take the maxims of religious tolerance as seriously with regard to conservative Protestants as they do with any other group. And, in truth, we are ordinary people. We're loyal subjects of the High King so long as he doesn't ask us to violate the laws of the King of All Kings. We go to school, work, vote. We dress the same as everyone else, except that our young women dress more modestly than anyone else except possibly the Muslim ladies in the summer. Although this conversation might mislead you, we don't feel the need to turn every conversation towards religion. If I had been appointed to a more secular country such as Knootoss or Hogsweat, my faith likely would not have come up in this conversation."

Debra smiled a little, changing the subject. "We have noticed that Greater Prussia has been not only growing substantially in recent days but also developing a far more complex structure to accomodate the varying needs of all the new members."

Samuel nodded a little. "I'm sure some people back home do. However, I am fortunate in that most Danaans take the maxims of religious tolerance as seriously with regard to conservative Protestants as they do with any other group. And, in truth, we are ordinary people. We're loyal subjects of the High King so long as he doesn't ask us to violate the laws of the King of All Kings. We go to school, work, vote. We dress the same as everyone else, except that our young women dress more modestly than anyone else except possibly the Muslim ladies in the summer. Although this conversation might mislead you, we don't feel the need to turn every conversation towards religion. If I had been appointed to a more secular country such as Knootoss or Hogsweat, my faith likely would not have come up in this conversation."

Debra smiled a little, changing the subject. "We have noticed that Greater Prussia has been not only growing substantially in recent days but also developing a far more complex structure to accomodate the varying needs of all the new members."

"Indeed, we have," the Czar of Derscon and Arch-Chancellor of Greater Prussia responded. "However, I'm glad Emperor Napoleon still maintains Protestant control over Greater Prussia Major -- we are still the only true Protestant region in the world -- yet we understand that we can be accepting to other faiths -- or those of no faith." He took a sip of water and continued.

"I'm also happy the Emperor continues to refuse admittance to socialist nations, unless under very special circumstances. Greater PRussia has always been a beacon of Protestantism and Capitalism, and I don't want either to change." He leaned back in his custom swivel chair.

"You see, the reason for the different sections of the empire -- GPM, Burgundy, and FCA -- is so that the different groups of nations can have a stronger say in the running of the Empire."

((OOC: Should we maybe wrap this up?))

Samuel nodded. "We are also committed to economic freedom, of course."

((OOC: Should we maybe wrap this up?))

Samuel nodded. "We are also committed to economic freedom, of course."

OOC: Good idea.
=========================
"Capitalism is good. Money is good," the Czar said, smiling. He looked at his watch.

"Well, I suppose that you should head off to your new home. It was a good chat."
========
OOC: Time is not on my side. Will get back to ya.

The ambassador and his wife took their leave and allowed themselves to be escorted to the embassy.

To: Count Franz von Papen, Foreign Minister to the Czar of Derscon
From: Secretary of State Ainterya Tsulakia, the United Solaris Federation of Tiburon
Subject: Reforms Within Derscon

Your Excellency,

The United Solaris Federation has recently seen the reforms that the Dersconi government has inititiated, and sees it as an opportunity to expand on the small foothold of improving relations that our nations have already with the establishment of embassies. It is with this in mind that we wholeheartedly applaud the measure taken by the Dersconi government in lifting restrictions on religion and opening its borders to the outside world. We strongly believe that these steps in the right direction are characteristic of a new Derscon- a nation now willing to cooperate with others in the international community for the greater good, and willing to diplomatically resolve situations. We congradulate Derscon for their motion, and will support continued reforms in the future.

Sincerely,
Secretary of State Ainterya Tsulakia,
The United Solaris Federation of Tiburon

On behalf of the United Socialist States of The Sephardim and the Union of Socialist Jewish Nations I would like to commend your government on their openmindedness and step in the right direction.

Cory

The ambassador and his wife took their leave and allowed themselves to be escorted to the embassy.

The four Marines again escorted them out of the palace and to RAMC Airport, where their plane was waiting. THe plane took off, and was escorted by a single F/A-22 Raptor to International City, the gated "Embassy Lane" of Derscon, about fifty miles from Rekjyavich-Andropov Military City --- It was a very short flight, to say the least.

The TRD aircraft touched down at the International City Airport, and the Ambassador's family was guided off the plane by two more Marines, who led them to another SUV (Dersconi's loved their big cars) where they got to take a drive through International City.

As they drove out of the airport, the first thing one saw was a building of the Dersconi Foreign Ministry, which was right across from World Brotherhood Park, which was owned, operated, and maintained by the Boy Scouts of Derscon. In fact, International City had it's own troop for kids there who wished to take part in it. At the center of WBP was a fountian that was three stories high, a massive golden eagle at the top, with stone statues "guarding" it.

Further down the road was the Relaxation Centre. Countless resturaunts off all kinds of food types and ethnicity littered these streets, as well as a public bath house, tennis courts, baseball and (American) football fields, soccer fields, and of course, a Sportsmen's Club for the hunters and gun enthusiasts.

Beside the Sportsmen's Club was the local gunshop which basically any town larger than fifty people had in Derscon. The smaller shops dealt mostly in hunting rifles and shotguns, the medium ones dealt in large-calibre and semi-auto rifles as well as various handguns, and the largest shops -- those located in the big cities -- dealt in all of the above mentioned as well as fully automatic rifles and ammuntion ranging from the Colt M16A1/A2, the Kalashnikov AK-47 and it's variations, and even submachine guns such as the MAC 11, the Uzi, And various H&K Products such as the MP5's various versions, the MP5K, and the MP7. Basically, anything short of a tank you can buy at a gun shop. After all, tanks tear up the roads.

And finally, the actual residential zone -- the Embassies. The first one that they passed was the Corneliuian Embassy -- the oldest one in Derscon. Scattered about were the Tiburon, Allanean, the old Hattian Embassy, Cav, Reichskamphen, Diminix, and then finally, the newest addition to the International City -- the Resurgent Dream embassy.

The Embassy itself was designed to mimic the Chateau D' Avrilly in Western Derscon, it was basically a mansion design with a few towers along the sides -- not the most creative design ever, but still magnificent in design, simple as it is. Next to it was the Reichskamphen Embassy, which was designed off of Dunrobin Castle, hill, land setup, garden, wall and all. It was an exact replica.

The gate to the Embassy complex was opened and the Dersconi Marines drove them onto the Embassy grounds. A large fountain (Dersconis love water works. :)) was in the centre of the driveway, the Embassy front door ahead of them on a staircase, a garage to the left, and a small garden and a grill to the right.

The Marine riding shotgun -- who was a First Sergeant -- opened the door for the Ambassador and his family and led them to the garage.

"Sir, in here you will find a Cadallac Escalade, a stretch limosine (OOC: sp butchered :(), a Lamborghini Murcielago, and a DMW Soli, a hydrogen-powered car, in case you are an enviromentalist. Other than that, I will allow your security detail to take you around the complex. Have a good day, sir." The Marines saluted and got back in the SUV -- which was, in fact, an H3 -- and drove back to the Foreign Ministry complex in the International City. The Resurgent Dream had it's own hangar at the airport, so they didn't need to check on the plane -- there's Air Force guards to do that.

While the Minstry of State Security could have bugged everything in site, hospitality won over intelligence. Virtually nothing was bugged -- embassy, garden, or cars.

On the embassy grounds, anyways.

From: Chief Rabbi of Jeruselem
To: Count Franz von Papen, Foreign Minister to the Czar of Derscon

We welcome this new religious policy shift with the fully recognition of the Hebrew peoples in Derscon as full citizens. The Jewish peoples in Jeruselem are encouraged by this direction in foreign policy in Derscon.

As you know, our head of state is partially of Hebrew descent and while she is a Roman Catholic, retains her affection for the peoples of David without reservation.