NationStates Jolt Archive

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Diplomatic Ecclesiastical Edict
To: [OOC: Whom It May Concern]
From: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

The High Ecclesiarchy has stalwartly committed itself to the goal of helping the people of Torontia in their noble efforts towards forging a liberal government that is strongly democratic and national. In doing so, Holy Xirnium honours its responsibilities as one of the new temporary custodians of Torontia by paying homage to the sacrosanct rights of self-determination of the Torontian people – rights which for too long were ignored in order to further the selfish interests of imperialist foreign powers.

The withdrawal of these occupiers has generated a unique opportunity in the history Torontia, one that we would be ill-advised to discard. We have the chance to put firmly in the past the terrible era of occupation by inept foreign governments that drove Torontia to the very brink of civil war, and to look towards a bright and unified future filled with hope.

In order to facilitate our ambitious goal, the High Ecclesiarchy plans to begin holding the first of many public Constitutional Conventions within days. The stated aim of this first conference will be merely to canvass a range of opinions on the most desirable governmental structure for a united Torontia.

You are hereby cordially invited to send a delegation to attend the symposium, to be held in Seattle, former capital of a united Torontia. Hopefully, we shall work productively towards a better future for all Torontians.

[Signed]
High Lady Dr Heather Gilda (http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a25/Dennis134/Gilda.jpg)
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the Patriarchate of the High Ecclesiarchy

The Institute of Greater Sciences and Social Development

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After watching the Torontian incident for some time now, I feel that a personal visit by myself and my colleagues, to study the social redevelopment of the nation and perform a series of experiments based around their gradual return to a state of Normality, I wish to study their development, and hopefully garner a greater understanding of the Human mind and its many complex patterns...

I await with eagerness for your reply and hope that you will allow me and my colleagues to visit these Seminars.

Yours

Dr Smith
The Institute of Greater Sciences and Social Development
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It was another late night, well past midnight. The fierce storm which raged outside seemed to reflect the Grand Cardinal’s own brooding inner thoughts. Torrential rain pounded on the elaborately stained, dark baroque windows of the Foreign Minister’s impressive office, cascading down the tall panes. The tortured wind howled terribly, something that the Grand Cardinal usually found most soothing.

Situated high up in the lofty spires of the Grand Basilica of the High Ecclesiarchy, her office afforded the Foreign Minister a breathtaking view of the vast, dark gothic metropolis that was Naerath, capital of Holy Xirnium. That is, of course, whenever Grand Cardinal Gilda had the time to peer out of the windows.

Hearing her aide softly enter the room, carrying a number of files which she had requested, Grand Cardinal Gilda paused from her work. With some longing, the High Lady looked over at her disused cello positioned in a far corner of the room, the dim light glinting off its highly polished surface. How long has it been since I've had the time to play it? she wondered.

‘What do you know of this “Institute of Greater Sciences and Social Development,” Abigail? I don’t believe I’ve heard of them before,’ asked High Lady Heather Gilda offhandedly, removing her glasses to rub the bridge of her nose. What with the coming annual Caucus meeting, the complex Torontian situation and the various wars waging across the globe, the Foreign Minister had found herself working longer and longer hours.

‘I’m unsure of who they are, your Eminence,’ explained High Lady Gilda’s aide, stifling a yawn as she tore her gaze away from the dark windows and turned towards the matter at hand. Late nights did not agree with Abigail Ertha.

The Foreign Minister’s personal secretary frowned as she took the message into her hands, the name was unfamiliar. ‘I can ask the Inquisition, on behalf of you, to make some brief enquiries into it if you like,’ Ertha offered, shrugging her shoulders. Hopefully it can wait till the morning, though, the aide added silently.

‘Yes, I think that would be prudent,’ the Grand Cardinal replied thoughtfully. ‘Tell them to get back to me as soon as they have something.’

‘Very well, my Lady,’ affirmed the aide.

‘Make sure you get it done tonight,’ added the Foreign Minister.

‘Of course, your Eminence. If there will be nothing else?’ asked the aide, hiding her disappointment. So it seems that it can’t wait until tomorrow after all…

‘No, that will be all. I’ll see you tomorrow, Ms Ertha,’ explained Grand Cardinal Gilda, dismissing her secretary. The Foreign Minister smiled encouragingly at her aide.

‘Goodnight, your Eminence,’ said Ertha quietly as she left, closing the massive engraved ebony doors behind her.

Lady High Grand Cardinal Heather Gilda sighed, leaning into her high-backed chair as she gazed around the empty office. The Foreign Minister looked gloomily at the dieing flames of the ornate fireplace, resigning herself to another sleepless night. She would let its embers burn out.

Taking a long sip of her chardonnay wine, High Lady Gilda returned to her work, setting about drafting a quick response.

_________________________________________________________________________

Official Ecclesiastical Edict

To: Dr Smith of the Institute of Greater Sciences and Social Development
From: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

The High Ecclesiarchy is committed to ensuring that the Constitutional Conventions of Torontia are entirely open and involve the participation of the people of Torontia at all levels. To this end, all of the Torontian Constitutional Conventions will be fully televised, allowing the world press and Torontian people complete access to their happenings. Furthermore, the numerous decisions of the Constitutional Conventions will seek ratification from the Torontian people in nation-wide plebiscites, and the ultimate Constitution that is determined will be enacted only by popular referendum.

Although later Constitutional Conventions will allow direct access to a large number of different individuals and canvas a range of opinions from a wide cross section of Torontian society, it is not planned at this time to allow observers not involved in the first conference to attend the First Constitutional Convention.

The reasons for this decision mainly concern the limited objectives of the symposium. Whereas later Constitutional Conventions will determine the detailed structure of a future Torontian government and ensure that the future Constitution of Torontia has the support of the people, this First Constitutional Convention will be primarily designed to determine the outline of Torontia’s journey to self-rule.

The fact that audiovisual recordings of the event, however, will be made public in real-time should satisfactorily allow your organisation the ability to study Torontian self-determination in action.

[Signed]
Her Eminence the High Lady Dr Heather Gilda
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the Patriarchate of the High Ecclesiarchy

Official Reply From The Torontia Socialist Union.
To: High Lady Dr Heather Gilda
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the Patriarchate of the High Ecclesiarchy

We have heard of your offer and we will be going, we will depart for Seattle to this meeting as soon as possible. I personally will be there to be a part of the delagations.

-Mark Brovan

(OOC: If the edict was not sent to Amestria, assume the TPG informed Amestria of its existence.)

Public Announcement from the Amestrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Contrary to the outright lies that the government of Xirnium continues to spout, the State of Amestria during its one-year occupation of Western Torontia can boast of numerous accomplishments. The State of Amestria, during its peacekeeping occupation, succeeded in restoring order, reestablishing government services, suppressed a pro-New Order insurrection, prevented the spread of a destructive bio-weapon unleashed by New Order insurgents, and successfully built numerous institutions which will undoubtedly be integrated into the National Torontian Government once it is established. Xirnium at present has accomplished little and is thus engaged in attacking the accomplishments of Amestria in an attempt to make its role in events appear larger to the outsider.

The State of Amestria, due to its history in Torontia, its diplomatic relationship with the Torontian Provisional Government, its financial investments in Western Torontia, its connection with many of Western Torontia’s governing institutions, and its close relationship with the TPG leadership, will be dispatching two Officials to personally observe the proceedings.

[signed]
Dominique de Villepin, The Honorable Minister of Foreign Affairs


Message from the Torontian Provisional Government

Provisional Vice President Mitsune Konno shall lead the Torontian National Congress Parties delegation.

[signed]
Samuel Burns, President of the Torontian Provisional Government
Mitsune Konno, Vice President of the Torontian Provisional Government

To: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium
From: Colonel Kietz, Imperial McKagan Army
Subject: Conference

I am the McKagan Field Commander while the good General stays away on his destroyer. At this moment I am heading off to a conference with the TPG and TNCP, but I will send my top Lieutenant, Lieutenant Spears, to this conference. He has past experience in these sorts of affairs and will serve pefectly.

State a time for the meeting and he will depart when needed.

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Official Communique from the Office of the Secretary of State of the Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia

To: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium
From: Kenneth Hawkins, Secretary of State, the Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia
Re: First Torontian Constitutional Convention

I have heard much news of the Xirnium-hosted First Torontian Constitutional Convention as of late. As we have had many ties to the former Torontian state in the past, we feel it prudent to play a part in ensuring a bright future for the rebuilt, democratic Torontian state. As such, I humbly request your permission to attend the First Torontian Constitutional Convention. I look forward to your response.

Respectfully,
Kenneth Hawkins
Secretary of State
The Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia

[OOC: Perhaps Hawkins could also discuss certain other diplomatic matters with the Xirniumite delegation while there, X?]

DEMOCRATIC SOVIET REPUBLIC OF KAHANISTAN
Military Assistance Command, Torontia

I would be pleased to attend this convention, as a break from the drudgery of office work. While no one who knows me would accuse me of being diplomatic, my aide will accompany me to this meeting. He is a skilled diplomat as well as a seasoned officer.

My personal desires for the meeting are to end the political division in Torontia, and, of course, to bring justice for the victims of the Amestrian genocide.

I will arrive in a non-descript jeep, with only my aide. It is common practice for Kahanistan dignitaries to attract as little attention to their vehicles as possible.

Signed,
Brig. Gen. Rachel C. Levitt,
Kahanistan Imperial Marines,
Commander, Military Assistance Command, Torontia

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Sucellan Governance of Tannenmille
Ministry of Terran Affairs, Tannenmillian Baghdad, Saharistan

As the Sucellan Governance has been involved, albeit in a minor way, in the events surrounding Torontia, with your permission 1st Lieutenant Jacob Schneider will be attending this conference as the representative of the Sucellan Governance and its armed forces currently on alert in Saharistan.

If you accept, he will arrive in a marked Lambda-class shuttle at an airport, hopefully in Seattle. As we cannot provide our own vehicles, we request that you grant us the use of a Mercedes-Benz C350 Sport Sedan, painted black with tinted windows, adorned with a flag of the Sucellan Governance to the right front fender and front center roof of the sedan, and a flag of the other attending nations along the left of the roof. Please send the bill to the Ministry of Terran Affairs Treasury in Baghdad, Saharistan.

Thank you for the invitation and your efforts toward a united Torontia.

Sincerely,
Fredrich May
Minister of Terran Affairs

TO: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium
FROM:Evan Ho, Southeast Asia Ambassador-to-The Lone Alliance
RE: Torontian Constitutional Conference

Excellent. I myself have a feeling that the conference shall be successful and we can have peace at long last. I shall be attending like the last one in Kurora and wish to offer suggestions....should you be willing to accept.

Signed,
Evan Ho,
USNSEA Ambassador to the Lone Alliance

[OOC: Phew, long post. Forgive me if I made a mistake somewhere, it was a little rushed.]

Lady High Grand Cardinal Heather Gilda stood alone atop one of the many high balconies of the Grand Basilica, thinking quietly to herself. Leaning against the stone wall with her arms crossed in front of her chest, the Foreign Minister gazed over the vast metropolis of Naerath, the tops of the tallest skyscrapers lost in the clouds of the overcast sky. The strong wind that whipped her long hair about was frigidly cold, like an icy vice on one’s very soul, and caused the Grand Cardinal to wrap herself tightly in her formal burgundy cloak.

‘Good day, Lady Gilda,’ intoned Lord High Grand Cardinal Ameas Vernius, Defence Minister of Holy Xirnium. The Defence Minister had approached silently like a shadow, and was now too ostensibly watching Naerath’s gothic skyline.

The muscles in the back of Grand Cardinal Gilda’s neck tightened reflexively as she recognised the Defence Minister’s oily smooth voice. ‘Good morning, Lord Vernius. A splendid day, isn’t it?’ she replied stiffly.

‘Glorious,’ the Defence Minister agreed. Well, at least it isn't raining, he thought. The two stood in awkward silence for a moment.

‘Ameas…’ the Foreign Minister began, but was interrupted.

‘Lady Gilda, I know that you plan to run against me for leadership of the party when Lord Nidor resigns,’ explained Grand Cardinal Vernius.

Of course he would know, all of Caucus is talking about it, thought Grand Cardinal Gilda. ‘I believe I have the numbers and ability to defeat you,’ explained the Foreign Minister simply.

‘Perhaps you do, at that,’ mused the Defence Minister darkly. ‘Still, there is no reason why there should be any bitterness between us. Surely this can be conducted with civility?’

‘I agree, Lord Vernius. We are, after all, in the same party. I wish you good luck,’ Grand Cardinal Gilda said, smiling friendlily.

‘And I to you, I’m glad that this little rivalry wont affect our friendship. Now, on to other matters,’ Grand Cardinal Vernius announced, his demeanour warming visibly. ‘You’ve read the latest Amestrian press release, I imagine?’ The two began slowly walking together along the long balcony.

The Foreign Minister snorted in disgust. ‘After all the terrible blows I’ve struck against Amestrian interests in Torontia, the fools still haven’t learnt just who it is they are dealing with. Their statement is nothing more then sour grapes at having been forced out of Torontia with nothing to show for their efforts. Not to mention the humiliation they have endured from the High Ecclesiarchy when it exposed their lies and crimes to the world. Soon, even their puppet government in Torontia will be gone, along with any lingering dignity they have left.

I will destroy them,’ Grand Cardinal Gilda vowed cruelly.

‘Of that I’ve no doubt,’ agreed the Defence Minister, looking at the Foreign Minister with a curious expression. He did not doubt Lady Gilda’s abilities in the slightest, she was truly a formidable politician. ‘What about the Torontian Constitutional Conference? Do you think we will really be able to establish a liberal democratic government for Torontia?’

‘I’ve high hopes for the conference. Though I did notice a lot of military officers are being sent. Curious, that they should send such individuals rather then politicians and jurists, people who understand Constitutionalism,’ explained the Foreign Minister.

Grand Cardinal Vernius shrugged. ‘Different customs, I suppose.’

___________________________________________________________________________

Diplomatic Ecclesiastical Message

To: Mark Brovan of the Torontian Socialist Union
From: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

Mr Brovan,

I look forward to personally meeting you at the Constitutional Convention and working jointly towards a bright Torontian future.

[Signed]
Her Eminence the High Lady Dr Heather Gilda
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the Patriarchate of the High Ecclesiarchy

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Official Ecclesiastical Edict

To: Mitsune Konno
From: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

Mr Konno,

Very well, I look forward to the presence of your delegation at the conference.

[Signed]
Her Eminence the High Lady Dr Heather Gilda
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the Patriarchate of the High Ecclesiarchy

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Diplomatic Ecclesiastical Message

To: Suprainister Denteth Tolion of the Novacom Council of Ministers
From: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

Greetings, noble allies!

The High Ecclesiarchy is pleased that your rational voice will be added to the chorus of opinions regarding the self-determination of the Torontian people. We look forward to your presence at the Constitutional Convention.

[Signed]
Her Eminence the High Lady Dr Heather Gilda
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the Patriarchate of the High Ecclesiarchy

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Diplomatic Ecclesiastical Message

To: Colonel Kietz of the Imperial McKagan Army
From: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

Thankyou for your decision to be present at the First Torontian Constitutional Convention. The first session of the symposium will be held at 12:00 noon on the 21st of January.

[Signed]
Her Eminence the High Lady Dr Heather Gilda
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the Patriarchate of the High Ecclesiarchy

___________________________________________________________________________

Diplomatic Ecclesiastical Message

To: Secretary of State Kenneth Hawkins of the Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia
From: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

Greetings, Mr Secretary.

The High Ecclesiarchy would be pleased to extend our invitation to attend the First Constitutional Convention of Torontia to your nation. As one of the leading liberal democracies of the world, we feel that your government’s presence will provide a considered and moderated opinion to Torontia’s journey to become a strongly democratic, united nation.

As I shall also be personally attending the symposium, perhaps we will also have an opportunity to discuss other diplomatic matters which more closely relate to Xirniumite-Halberdgardian relations.

[Signed]
Her Eminence the High Lady Dr Heather Gilda
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the Patriarchate of the High Ecclesiarchy

___________________________________________________________________________

Diplomatic Ecclesiastical Message

To: Brigadier General Rachel C. Levitt of the Kahanistan Imperial Marines
From: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

Greetings, worthy allies!

The presence of our close friends in the Soviet Socialist Republic of Kahanistan is always most welcomed by Holy Xirnium. I am personally looking forward to meeting you and together helping to write the wrongs committed by the incompetent Amestrian-Saint Fedskian imperialist occupation of Torontia.

[Signed]
Her Eminence the High Lady Dr Heather Gilda
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the Patriarchate of the High Ecclesiarchy

___________________________________________________________________________

Diplomatic Ecclesiastical Message

To: Terran Affairs Minister Fredrich May of the Sucellan Governance of Tannenmille
From: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

The High Ecclesiarchy will be happy to allow your delegation to attend the First Torontian Constitutional Convention.

I will direct Army Group Torontia (currently occupying East Torontia awaiting the enactment of a popular, national and democratic government which will govern on behalf of all Torontian people) to meet your request as regards transport. The relevant costs will be sent after they are known by one of my more then competent adjutants.

[Signed]
Her Eminence the High Lady Dr Heather Gilda
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the Patriarchate of the High Ecclesiarchy

___________________________________________________________________________

Diplomatic Ecclesiastical Message

To: Southeast Asian Ambassador-to-The Lone Alliance Evan Ho
From: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

The High Ecclesiarchy eagerly awaits your presence at the First Torontian Constitutional Convention, where a definitive solution to the Amestrian-Saint Fedskian legacy of incompetence and division in Torontia can be achieved, and a legitimate popular government created.

[Signed]
Her Eminence the High Lady Dr Heather Gilda
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the Patriarchate of the High Ecclesiarchy

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Official Imperial Transmission

To: High Lady Dr Heather Gilda, The High Ecclesiarchy
From: The High Council of Arrandin

Most Noble Grand Cardinal,

Such a convention should have progressed months ago, and would have if the governmental misfits that were the TPG and TIG had not been established. Your goals however are more reasonable than ambitious and all parties involved in Torontia should strive for the same end results.
The Infinite Empire graciously accepts your invitation and will be in attendance for the duration of the symposium.

Lord Balor, Emperor of Yallak

[ASI Secured Satellite Transmission]

To: His Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium
From: Josh Ward, President, Torontian Liberal Party
Subject: Conference

I recently became aware of the conference that is about to take place. Because this party, which is so young yet holds a great deal of power, is still in the process of getting our communications systems switched to the Avalt Security International setup, I missed the memo about the conference until now.

We are pro-capitalist, anti-New Order, and secular. The TLP blames most problems in Torontia on the foundations of religious fundamentalism, and we feel that is the most important issue in the formation of a United Torontian Government. If you'd so allow, I'd like to be present at the conference to represent such ideas.

The State of Amestria,
Amestria City (Central),
Ministry of Defense,
Office of Vice Minister of Defense Sara Liscel

Sara sighed as she shifted through the avalanche of boring and tedious paperwork that accompanied every Ministerial position. It was all concerning matters of dry administration, no policy discussion, and no intellectual debate: just uninteresting minutia. Gradually Sara’s mind drifted from work to personal matters. My Menstruation Phase will begin in one week. Sara shuddered at the thought; she always dreaded her period.

“Focus, focus…” she repeated to herself, trying to get back on track. However, she soon became distracted again and began doodling little pictures of pyramids, rearranging the pens in her desk drawer, and obsessively cleaning the windows. Time passed quickly. Eventually Aela entered the office.

“Minister!”

“What is it Aela?”

“Those papers have to be sent to the relevant departments in ten minutes and…”

Sara glanced back at her desk and the stack of neglected work. Fuck! Sara returned to her desk and began furiously skimming the papers, signing her name and adding her offices seal where necessary.

“Aela, I do not have time for all this useless busywork.”

“You’ve had two hours.”

“Shut up!”

In her haste, Sara accidentally signed her name in the wrong place. “Damn it!” She began frantically searching her desk for whiteout. She did not find any. “Aela, where is the whiteout?”

“Our office is out; one of those forms is for the acquisition of more office supplies…”

“Oh well…” Sara crossed out the wrongly placed signature and continued signing.

“And” Aela continued, “Minister de Villepin is on line one waiting…”

“Why did you delay in informing me?!” Sara did not wait for an answer and immediately picked up her office phone and pressed line one. “This is Vice Minister of Defense Sara Liscel.”

The voice of Dominique de Villepin casually replied. “This is Minister of Foreign Affairs de Villepin. Am I interrupting?”

“No Minister, not at all.” Sara put her hand over the receiver. “Aela, send out those papers which I have signed and inform the neglected departments I was unable to get to them because of a pressing affair of State. Tell them they will receive them in another hour.”

“Yes Minister.” Aela collected the stack of signed papers and left the office.

Sara turned her attention back to de Villepin. “Continue please.”

“Are you familiar with the Constitutional Convention being held in Torontia?”

“Of course.”

“The President wishes that an Amestrian delegation be sent to Torontia to observe the proceedings. The Torontian Provisional Government also has requested an Amestrian delegation to lend assistance and provide diplomatic support. The Foreign Ministry has decided to send two Ministers, one from Foreign Affairs and one from Defense… Your presence was specifically requested by TPG Vice President Konno.”

Sara sat back in her chair, a mischievous smile on her face. “Oh really…”

“Don’t play innocent; I am well aware of your…friendship with Ms. Konno and the existence of your influence network.”

Sara became serious. “I do not know what you are implying Minister… My personal and professional friendship with Ms. Konno means that she trusts me to be effective in an official capacity, nothing more… So, who will be accompanying me to the convention?”

“Deputy Foreign Minister Cle’o de Me’rode. She is the most talented individual for this assignment next to my self.”

Liscel suppressed a groan. “I look forward to working with her on this assignment.”

“I have sent your office our list of diplomatic objectives, as well as the necessary information on all the individuals that the Foreign Ministry and the Secret Service believes will be attending the convention. Your aide should have them by now… That is all.”

“Thank you for your time Minister.”

de Villepin hung up and Sara followed suit. Kitsune you little… She then smiled at the thought of her hands tracing over every inch of Mitsune’s body. Sara squeezed her legs together in anticipation, giving herself a little jolt of pleasure. She then sat up. “What am I doing, focus, focus…”

Sara pressed line zero on her office phone (her office line). “Aela, get back in here and bring all the files sent over by the Foreign Ministry on the subject of the Torontian Constitutional Convention.”

“Yes Minister.”

Sara glanced with disgust at the half-finished pile of busy work before her and pushed it aside. That will have to wait she thought cheerfully. Aela reentered Sara’s office, several folders under her arm.

“So, who from Foreign Affairs will be accompanying you to the convention?”

“Deputy Minister Cle’o de Me’rode.”

“Wasn’t she a leader in the protests that brought down your father?”

“Yeah… At one demonstration, she got a billy club in the face for refusing the police’s demands that the demonstrators disperse…” Sara began to message her temple. “I am really looking forward to spending several hours on a plane with her” she quipped sarcastically.

Aela set the folders down on Sara’s desk.

“Well Minister, I suppose I once again have to accompany you overseas… At least it is something important this time.”

Sara set aside the documents on the Foreign Ministries Diplomatic objectives…‘plenty of time to read those later,’ and concentrated her attention on the much more interesting personnel files. “Ah, here we are, High Lady Dr. Heather Gilda, Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the Patriarchate of the High Ecclesiarchy…what an utterly self absorbed title.”

Sara held up Heather Gilda (http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a25/Dennis134/Gilda.jpg)’s photo. “Hmmm… A beautiful blonde with radiant red lips… I wonder if she is aware of the old adage that ‘politics makes strange bedfellows…’”

“You aren’t…?”

“Of course not! I would never consider forming a relationship that arrogant little bitch… But a one night stand would be nice…” Sara continued to swift through Gilda’s file. “She is expected to contest the leadership of the ruling party once the current leader, lord Nidor, steps down. Her chief competitor is Defense Minister Ameas Vernius… So naturally, she will want to come back from Torontia with a success and not a miserable failure…such as the convention failing and Torontia falling back into chaos… We can use that.”

Sara set aside Gilda’s file and noticed the one concerning the Novacom delegation. One possible leader of the delegation was a certain Minister Izalian… The file was depressingly small. “We really must find out more about Novacom… That reminds me, we should also get around to trying to decode their language… Inform the Department of Special Projects that I would like a preliminary meeting on the viability of a Novacom language translation project once I get back from Torontia.”

“Yes Minister.”

Sara held up Izalian’s picture. “Another gorgeous blonde… I do believe I am going to enjoy myself at this conference… A pity she is a complete mystery.”

Sara picked up the file on the Kahanistanian delegate. “Brig. Gen. Rachel C. Levitt… We should have had the Kahanistanian President transfer her while we had the chance… I am left with the impression that all of Kahanistans military officers are either mad or suffering from physiological disorders. It is not in our best interests that she show up…contact the Foreign Ministry on this issue.”

“Yes Minister.”

Sara came across a document on Amestria’s plan for an Embassy in Torontia. “I see they are planning to establish an Embassy so as to have a more accurate picture of what is happening on the ground. They plan to establish it at the old AOA Central Command in Port Angeles. Heard anything on who the new ambassador shall be?”

“I am afraid I have heard nothing on that subject.”

“Then have you heard anything on who shall be assigned to the position of Embassy Military Adjutant?”

“I heard it will be Frank Archer…”

“Lieutenant Colonel Frank Archer…that psychopath?”

“He’s a full Colonel now…and I would not call him a psychopath…true, he is very cold.”

“Cold, try frigid… Kasumi has had some dealings with him over the years through her connections in the Military Intelligence Division. You know what he said to her as he was preparing to leave for BC to aid in the suppression of the TPLA insurrection. Kasumi said he was cheerful as he packed up his desk. He said to my sister ‘You led the suppression of the Kiseria insurrection, personally killed 26 people, and came back a hero of the State. This is my chance for fame.’ That is what he said…the man is obsessed with personal success, medals, and the number of stars on his uniform…(sigh).”

Sara returned her attention to work in front of her and shifted through more of the documents, it would take a while to get through them all…but at least they were interesting. “Aela, bring me some tea.”

“Yes Minister.”

The sounds of Grand Cardinal Heather Gilda’s stiletto heels striking the highly polished marble floor echoed loudly as she walked along a narrow hallway, touring the venue for the upcoming Constitutional Convention.

‘This building was previously the Admiralty complex during the New Order-era, your Eminence,’ a member of the entourage explained eagerly. ‘We’ve had to rush a little to refurbish the place for the symposium, but I think you will be pleased with our results.’

‘I’m quite certain that your preparations will have been more then adequate,’ the Foreign Minister replied absentmindedly as they turned a corner and entered the primary conference centre. The floor of the large hall was covered in an expensive dark green carpet, and furnished with elegant wooden mahogany tables and chairs. Apart from a small number of Xirniumites, the room was empty.

High Lady Gilda was feeling frazzled from the roughly 8 hour jet-lag difference, having only just arrived in East Torontia after a long aircraft journey. Still, there was not a moment to rest, at least not until the night. This situation is politically dangerous, thought the Foreign Minister grimly, while I am halfway across the world attending a conference, Vernius will be back in Holy Xirnium gathering votes.

‘My Lady, are you alright?’ asked the aide, looking at the Grand Cardinal with some concern. She does look tired, he thought to himself, noticing that the Foreign Minister seemed to have ignored his last comments on the Constitutional Convention.

‘Yes, fine. Thank you James but I’m quite okay,’ the Grand Cardinal assured him with a weak smile. ‘So have the other conference members begun to arrive yet?’

‘Some of those from the minor parties have, I believe,’ the bureaucrat explained, leafing through a file. ‘We expect the others to arrive over the following days.’

‘Splendid. If you don’t mind I think we will have to end the tour here, I’m fairly busy,’ announced Lady Gilda.

‘Of course, your Eminence.’

___________________________________________________________________

Diplomatic Ecclesiastical Message
To: Lord Emperor Balor of the High Council of Arrandin
From: The Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

Greetings, noble Emperor, from the High Ecclesiarchy.

I am, as always, pleased to have the opportunity to work together with the skilled diplomats of the Infinite Empire, and look forward to seeing them at the Conference. As a trusted ally of Holy Xirnium, I’m confident that your nation's presence at the Constitutional Convention will provide a positive benefit to the process of Torontia’s self-determination.

[Signed]
Her Eminence the High Lady Dr Heather Gilda
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the High Ecclesiarchy

___________________________________________________________________

Diplomatic Ecclesiastical Message
To: President Josh Ward of the Torontian Liberal Party
From: The Most Worthy High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

The High Ecclesiarchy is pleased that your political party has decided to attend the First Torontian Constitutional Convention. I believe that, in order to create a more perfect national government, one that truly represents the hopes and aspirations of the people of Torontia, all political views must be dually considered.

I look forward to hearing your suggestions for the future Torontian Constitution, particularly your views on secularism.

[Signed]
Her Eminence the High Lady Dr Heather Gilda
Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister of the High Ecclesiarchy

‘You look fine, Minister,’ assured the Grand Cardinal’s aide, Abigail Ertha, while leafing idly through some official papers. ‘We can’t wait much longer.’

The press room, one of several that had been created inside the former Torontian Admiralty building for the upcoming Constitutional Convention, buzzed with activity as the camera crew prepared for the satellite link with Holy Xirnium.

Lady Heather Gilda finished applying a blood red lipstick to her lips, checking her appearance fastidiously in a nearby mirror. The Foreign Minister was pleased to see that the dark lines under her eyes, which had been present yesterday, had disappeared. When she had woken up this morning, the Grand Cardinal had found that her jet-lag had passed, and that she was once again brimming with boundless energy. Perhaps a little too much energy, but that’s okay, Lady Gilda thought.

‘Very well then, let’s start,’ Grand Cardinal Gilda declared, straitening in her chair as she gazed into the camera lens.

Many hundreds of miles away, at the headquarters of the Xirniumite Broadcasting Corporation, situated in Naerath, Tony Kaylorn prepared to interview the Foreign Minister.

_____________________________________________________________________

Xirnium Broadcasting Corporation
TV PROGRAM TRANSCRIPT
Broadcast: 24/01/2006

Constitutional Convention in Torontia
Reporter: Tony Kaylorn

Kaylorn: And now back to our ongoing coverage of the ever-complex Torontian situation, which continues to surprise analysts and politicians alike due to its quickly shifting nature. Only several weeks ago, the world was startled by the simultaneous withdrawal of the Amestrian-Saint Fedski occupational troops from the area. Already, much has changed, and Torontia is about to hold its first Constitutional Convention aimed at drafting plans for a new national governmental system.

Taking time away from her overseas commitments to that Constitutional Convention in order to answer questions about the ramifications of these latest developments is Holy Xirnium’s Foreign Minister, Grand Cardinal Heather Gilda. She joins us now over satellite connection.

Your Eminence, thank you for joining us.

Gilda: My pleasure, Tony.

Kaylorn: Now, firstly let us discuss the international reaction to this conference. Generally it has been quite good, hasn’t it?

Gilda: Yes indeed, Tony. In fact, with one notable exception, most governments that have voiced an opinion have been overwhelmingly positive about the coming Constitutional Convention. Like the High Ecclesiarchy, they generally have high hopes that it will provide a definitive solution to the Torontian question and allow the fullest expression of self-determination by the people of Torontia.

Kaylorn: Well, let’s talk briefly about that “one notable exception”, as you put it, Lady Gilda. The Amestrian Foreign Ministry recently came out with quite a condemnatory attack on the High Ecclesiarchy. In fact, they declared, and I quote, “contrary to the outright lies that the government of Xirnium continues to spout, the State of Amestria during its one-year occupation of Western Torontia can boast of numerous accomplishments”.

Gilda: [laughter] The fools that appear to make up the Amestrian government may excel at incompetently administering an occupied province, but they are utterly hopeless at disseminating convincing propaganda. I notice that Minister de Villepin didn’t bother trying to list those supposed lies that the High Ecclesiarchy, and presumably myself, have been making. What else could we have expected?

The fact of the matter is that the Amestrian occupation of Torontia was an utter disaster. It resulted in the splitting of the Torontian state into two halves which were completely hostile to one another, and even a brief proxy war between Saint Fedski and Amestria over their Torontian imperial possessions, primarily involving naval forces, several months ago. Thankfully, the High Ecclesiarchy was able to put an end to that madness through careful diplomatic manoeuvring… one shudders to think what might have happened had we not. The nation may well have descended into a full civil war by now.

Kaylorn: I take it then, Minister Gilda, that you are not convinced that the Amestrian occupation “succeeded in restoring order, re-establishing government services and suppressing a pro-New Order insurrection”, which is what the Foreign Ministry of Amestria claims?

Gilda: The problem is that such a description puts a completely warped spin on what really has happened. For the vast majority of the Amestrian period of occupation, full martial law was in effect, something that only ended just prior to their confused pull-out. The “pro-New Order insurrection” was brutally suppressed by the most utterly barbaric methods available, including the execution of all suspected insurgents on capture and without trial. Of course, the Amestrian government refuses to admit that their hands are drenched in blood, despite the fact that the Kahanistanian government has not only admitted that Amestrian troops did in fact organise and execute these atrocities but that the Kahanistanians (who were allies in Amestria’s dirty war) themselves were a party to them.

One can only laugh at the boast that the Amestrians achieved anything in Torontia. When they were finally forced to withdraw from the nation in disgrace they left a State as far away as ever from forming a unified, democratic government. They also left a Torontia that was once again threatening to tear itself apart in civil war.

Kaylorn: What has the High Ecclesiarchy made of the Amestrian claims that TPG institutions will, quote, “undoubtedly be integrated into the National Torontian Government”.

Gilda: Tony, that’s not an option that either the High Ecclesiarchy or, I daresay, any other government or political group that will be a party to the Constitutional Convention will find acceptable.

The Amestrian puppet government in West Torontia was installed by a foreign power without ever consulting the Torontian people, nor seeking their approval. Its structure reflects Amestrian ideas about governance, not the wishes of Torontians.

The coming Constitutional Convention is aimed at constructing a Torontian governmental system. The principles and doctrines involved in the numerous structures of the future Torontian national government will be a reflection of the popular sovereignty of the people of Torontia. We aim to accomplish this by having the Torontian people completely involved in all stages of the democratic process to self-determination. We will be holding numerous plebiscites to ensure that the system we draft is what the Torontians want to have, and a referendum will seek the ratification of any proposed national Torontian Constitution from the people.

Clearly, in such a democratic system there is no room for organs of government installed imperialistically by a foreign regime in the past to rule over their occupied territories. The TPG must be dissolved.

Kaylorn: A final question on the Amestrian Foreign Ministry statement before we must move on, Lady Gilda, what response do you have to Mr de Villepin’s claim that “Xirnium at present has accomplished little”.

Gilda: [shakes head] Complete rubbish. In the few short weeks that Holy Xirnium has been a custodian of East Torontia, we have completely removed the old Saint Fedski puppet government and their draconian laws (replacing them with civilian laws which fully and totally protect the liberal civil rights of all East Torontian citizens), we have been successful in instantly ending the Cold War tensions between East and West Torontia that had led to the very brink of war, we have rejuvenated the economy and taken important steps towards the reunification of Torontia, and we have made real efforts towards finally creating a national Torontian government, something the Amestrians should have done a long time ago.

Kaylorn: Before we finish, Lady Gilda, a question closer to home. Is it true that you will be contesting the leadership of the XPDP at the next party Caucus?

Gilda: [laughter, she smiles] Look, it’s no secret that the Chief Minister is expected to resign before the end of the year, long before the next election in October 2007. Until such time as the Grand Cardinal does announce his retirement, however, it would be premature of me to make a comment on the future leadership of the XPDP. I will say, though, that I have discussed the relevent issues quite extensively with my Caucus colleagues and that I plan to continue to serve the party to the best of my ability.

Kaylorn: I’ll take that as a yes.

Gilda: [further laughter]

Kaylorn: Lady Gilda, thanks for your time.

Gilda: Thank you.

Small puffs of smoke rose quickly into the air as the tires of the plane skimmed into contact with the asphalt runway in Seattle, the sound of skidding rubber easily audible as the craft began to decelerate. It took mere seconds before the aircraft came to a complete stop, well clear of the runways end, its twin engines now powerless spinning themselves into a stationary position.

The aircraft was completely black and white in colour with the exception of an image of a Golden Dragon painted on to its wings and fuselage, declaring it as none other than the Imperial Households private jet.

Right behind the fuselage emblem, the side of the craft folded out into an exit staircase. From the dark opening emerged an Imperial official, flanked by two men, obviously Imperial soldiers. They walked over to a waiting car and quickly hoped into it. The car quickly accelerated away from the airport on the most direct route to the old New-order Admiralty complex where the symposium was to be held.

Ten minutes later

As the car pulled up outside the complex, the driver, also an Imperial soldier, lent back to address his passengers.

“We have arrived, Lord Balor.”

With a quick thanks the Emperor and his officers exited the vehicle and headed inside to the symposium building.

General Levitt got into her jeep, with her aide. She was dressed in her military dress uniform, and one wondered how many times her aide had had to nag her to do so. She had a peace-sign earring in one ear and a heart-shaped earring in the other.

Luckily for her, she had not received the President's letter (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=10279444&postcount=52) before she had climbed into her jeep. He would not be pleased with her when she got back to Kahanistan. That was, if she did, with the sea route blocked off. (Even with Kahanistan no longer censoring the mail to troops there, no one had seen fit to tell her about the attack on the homefront.)

She couldn't be charged with disobeying orders if she hadn't received them... she floored the gas and barreled towards Seattle at 120 kilometers per hour. After an hour, she and her aide arrived in Seattle at the symposium building.

"Hello," she said to the guard. "Brigadier General Rachel Levitt, and this is my aide, Major Godfrey Abrams. We're here for the meeting."

Major Abrams saluted the guard and waited for the officers to be admitted.

[OOC: Xirnium: Seeing as Czardas' diplomatic conference got cut short, I'm going to cite fluid time and yank my President out of there. He'll be taking Hawkins' place at the Convention, if you don't mind, so just assume that Hawkins' letter was actually from my President instead.]

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Seattle, Torontia, 1030 Local Time

The Gulfstream V soared through the air over Seattle, the late-morning sun glinting off the aircraft's elegant frame. As the plane banked towards Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, the rays struck the center of the Great Seal of Halberdgardia emblazoned on the starboard side of the plane, while the identical Seal on the port side remained in shadow. The pilot had gained clearance to land, and within minutes, the plane had come down for a smooth landing at Sea-Tac.

As the plane's staircase descended to allow its occupants to deplane, two men in almost all-black emerged. Dressed in black sport jackets, black slacks, white shirts, black ties, and black reflective sunglasses, they looked the part of the stereotypical government bodyguard. With an air of authority, they calmly scanned the surrounds, then looked back and nodded at an unseen figure. Two more identical bodyguards emerged, followed by President Kenix Kil (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v465/neotheone175/NationStates/Modern%20Tech/Kenix_Kil.jpg) himself.

Dressed in a fine black suit with thin, dark gray pinstripes and matching pants, and a white shirt, Kil cut a dashing figure. He towered over most other diplomats at six-foot-three, and had a slightly slimmer-than-average frame. He stood tall and straight, but not arrogantly so. His skin had a healthy, but not overly so, tan that implied a love of the sun and a many a tropical vacation. His face was creased with the hints a few wrinkles -- probably stress-induced -- an unusual feature for a man who was hardly thirty years old, some fifteen years younger than his predecessor, former President Kir Kanos. But his most striking feature was his eyes. It was once said that "the eyes are a portal to the soul," and never was this more true than in the case of Kil. In his bright blue-green, intelligent eyes, one could imagine that one could see his years of experience in the realm of diplomacy and politics, the toll the Presidency was beginning to take on him -- but above all, his total dedication and love for his country and the people he served, all laid out before one.

It was this multifaceted man that now stood upon Torontian soil for the first time, finally taking in the sights of a nation that had formerly provoked him and his country, and prepared to clinch not one, but two of the biggest diplomacy coups of his Presidency.

[OOC: FYI, though I don't anticipate any problems at the conference, the four bodyguards are armed with silenced Model 100 SMGs (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9835717&postcount=78), linked via the integrated SmartGun system (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9835779&postcount=80) to the miniaturized CPU in their sunglasses. The SMGs will, of course, be concealed unless needed.]

The State of Amestria,
Amestria City (Central),
The Apartment of Vice Minister of Defense Sara Liscel

It was another fairly typical winter night, cold and wet. The light of the moon and stars had been blocked out by the irritable grey of swollen clouds. Rain hit the windows of the apartment, “tap, tap, tap, tap, tap.”

Sara sat in the living room with her legs rested on the coffee table. She leafed through Cardinal Heather Gilda’s SS file while enjoying a warm glass of milk and brandy. Aela stood on the other side of the room leaning against the arm of the coach as she listened to Liscel.

“All our records indicate the Lady Gilda to be a very solitary and private person… She seems to have few friends and even fewer relationships… Evidence points to her being a workaholic… The impression given by these records is that of an individual isolated from others…alone.”

Sara paused, finished her glass of warm milk/brandy and continued.

“Lady Gilda has left Xirnium on the eve of a power struggle within the ruling Xirnium Progressive Democracy Party over the succession of the Chief Minister… Her opponent is an oily fellow, Ameas Vernius, who is doubtlessly using the opportunity created by her absence to conduct a whispering campaign. If the Convention were to stumble in any major way or fail outright it would reflect poorly upon the Foreign Minister and could seriously impact her chances of winning. She is fully aware of her precarious situation, which will make her all the more determined to perform well…and all the more adverse to risk… She will most likely be suffering from an underlying stress…”

Sara got up, kicked off her flats, and began to put on a pair of s four-inch stiletto heels.

“Heather Gilda is five foot seven inches, yet she wears these four inch heels nearly all the time…not just for special occasions, nearly all the time…”

Aela sighed. “Really, really, why am I here?”

“You will be accompanying me and it is important you have an understanding of the events that will be surrounding you.”

“I have already read the relevant files, yet here I am in your apartment outside working hours and in an unofficial capacity…that is, not being paid.”

“Quiet whining, we live in the same building!”

“What is your obsession with this woman?”

“This ‘women’ has consistently blindsided our Foreign Ministry and generally made our lives miserable. Me’rode will spearhead Amestria’s diplomatic objectives. I will focus on getting at Lady Gilda, getting inside her mind…dealing with her…”

Sara began to pace back and forth in the four inch heeled shoes. She was unused to wearing them and wobbled.

“These shoes are quite painful and can do significant tendon damage over time… One does not wear them for reason of comfort…one wears them for there effects on self-image. This is a woman who likes to feel dominant, who perhaps needs to feel dominant. You get that feeling from all her public statements, so arrogant, so nauseously self-confident, so manic. She needs to feel power to justify her isolation from others and overcome the depression brought about by the imminent death of her family.”

“Death of her family?”

“She is 38 Aela, an only child, and childless. She is fast approaching the age where it will be too late to have children. Her family will end with her, and in this world, it is family that is the closest to immortality… She will become an evolutionary dead end… Perhaps one of her driving motivations is to create a lasting impression upon human history and thus be remembered, thus negating any unease over her lines eventual disappearance… She is looking into three voids as she stands next to the abyss. The first void is her present loneliness, the second fact of her eventual nonexistence, the third is the knowledge no one shall come after her… If she feels powerless, if she feels she lacks control… Her world could become quite dark…”

Sara paused and removed the heels. “How would she feel if she were around others without her precious heels?”

Sara sat back down. “She is under heavy political and mental stress. She will want the conference to succeed. If I can get her alone then I am sure I can acquire a greater feel for her and perhaps cut her down to size…or reach an understanding with her… Perhaps a well aged vintage of Chardonnay wine from the Manor’s stores could persuade her to have a private drink with me…”

-Former BC\Washington Border-
"Listen we're supposed to get to a meeting by tomorrow, you must let us through!" "Sorry but I'm not letting a pair of armored Cars through, even if they are unarmed!" The soldier said. The person inside the car looked around inside before sticking a sheet of paper out the window. "See free movement orders from the TPG now let us through now!" "Yes sir." The soldier replied letting the small group of cars onward to the meeting.

The Airspace somewhere over the North Atlantic,
An Amestrian Diplomatic Transport Plane

Deputy Foreign Minister Cle’o de Me’rode sat across the aisle from Liscel. Cle’o was a middle aged woman of average appearance. She was about 47, five foot five inches, had dark brown eyes, and short brown hair.

Sara sighed in resignation. For the last hour Cle’o had pointedly ignored her by silently reading a newspaper, the Le Monde diplomatique. Liscel had expected some veiled hostility from the former student activist, but she had not expected the Deputy Minister to act as if she did not exist. Cle’o had not even uttered a greeting when Sara had sat down across from her... The prolonged awkward silence was interrupted only by the constant humming of the planes engines.

Another hour passed by and there was still silence.

Then Cle’o spoke. “It says here that President Kenix Kil of Halberdgardia has paid a surprise visit to the Convention in Torontia.” She leaned over and showed the relevant article to Liscel.

Cle’o’s sudden voice startled Sara. “What…why? Halberdgardia does not have a presence in Torontia… No presence and no direct influence. They lack the ability to project power on the ground and the convention simply concerns the most general of talks on the nature of the new constitution…”

Cle’o got out of her seat and stretched. “My guess is that Kil is searching for a first year diplomatic success to give the rest of his term momentum. He was elected into office largely due to his foreign policy credentials and at his inauguration speech he pledged a term of international activism in defense of freedom… So far there has been nothing but inactivity and disappointment. He is simply shopping for a success, however superficial… Vice Minister Liscel, what are your thoughts on President Kil?”

Liscel paused. “Personally, I think he is an overly dramatic male idiot… However, I suspect he might have other reasons for being at the convention… With so many VIP’s present I would not be surprised if matters unrelated to Torontia were to come up in private discussion…”

Cle’o nodded in agreement. “True…” Cle’o then went back to reading her newspaper.


Sara and Cle’o spent the next six hours either discussing the convention or ignoring each other. The plane arrived in Torontian airspace and landed at a West Torontian TPG Military Airport. The delegation prepared for the convention and took a 24-hour break adjust to the new time zone and sleep off their jet lag. The Amestrian delegation then flew to Seattle by a TPG Military Transport Helicopter.

The Xirniumite paramilitary guards saluted the higher ranked Kahanistanian officers, coming to a snappy attention. ‘Of course, madam, right through the front doors,’ explained the Lieutenant to Brigadier General Levitt. ‘Many of the delegates have already begun to arrive, I believe they are congregating primarily in the main lobby foyer. Corporal Loth will escort you there.'

Although Xirniumite politicians were quite famous for their almost arrogant disregard for their personal security whenever they travelled abroad on diplomatic missions, the same could not be said about meetings that they hosted. Security was extremely tight, and the military presence of Holy Xirnium and her allies at the conference would severly discourage any hostile intentions.

****

‘Here, Heather, have you read this?’ queried a women in her early thirties, holding a Naerath Times newspaper in her hands. The two ladies, who were involved in quite an animated discussion, were instantly identifiable as parliamentary members of the High Ecclesiarchy by their formal burgundy cloaks, of a red so dark it almost appeared black.

‘Let me see,’ Lady High Grand Cardinal Gilda asked, scanning the newspaper. The article was a recent poll listing preferred Chief Ministers, and showed the Foreign Minister as having a very respectable seventeen point lead over her rival, Lord Vernius.

‘Encouraging news, isn’t it Heather?’ asked Lady Cardinal Eleanor Sabelina with a smile. As a close party ally of the Foreign Minister, anything that was good for the political prospects of Lady Gilda would be good for her career too. The Ecclesiastical Secretary to the Foreign Ministry had only just returned from the Kuroran Conference, a little disappointed that her meeting with the Halberdgardian Executive had been postponed but otherwise quite satisfied with the way events had transpired since.

‘Polls mean nothing, Lady Sabelina,’ explained the Grand Cardinal, waving her hand dismissively. ‘Firstly, you know as well as I do that Caucus does not always vote the way the electorate would prefer. Secondly, the polls are unreliable even as a measure of public support, and fluctuate wildly. Only several weeks ago a poll was published indicating that seven out of ten Xirniumite citizens preferred the Defence Minister to succeed Ertham as Chief Minister.’

‘Perhaps it’s an indication that the public has been impressed with your recent achievements,’ Lady Sabelina offered, shrugging.

Grand Cardinal started to respond, but interrupted herself as a foreign delegation entered the marbled foyer.

‘Ahh, Lord Balor, it is a pleasure to finally meet with you,’ declared the Foreign Minister as she handed the newspaper to one of her aides and walked across the slippery smooth tiles towards the Yallakian delegation, her hand outstretched graciously. Smiling widely, the Grand Cardinal slowly inclined her head towards the Emperor in the typical Xirniumite gesture of greeting. ‘The High Ecclesiarchy is honoured by the presence of the Infinite Empire at this conference,’ Lady Gilda explained as she introduced herself and her colleague.

Before they could talk for long, however, other delegates began to arrive.

‘Heather, the Amestrians are here,’ whispered the deputy Foreign Minister into the Grand Cardinals ear. ‘I think it would be best if you greeted them, I did not get along so well with them last time we met.’

The Foreign Minister shot Lady Cardinal Sabelina an acidic look, before turning back to the Yallakian delegation. It will not do to have a diplomatic fall-out before the conference has even begun simply because the Cardinal has a short temper, Lady Gilda thought to herself.

‘Excuse me for a moment, Lord Balor, but there is a small matter I need to attend to,’ Grand Cardinal Gilda apologised, as she walked off quickly to meet the Amestrians.

The Amestrian delegation was made up of the two ministers and their respective staff (three civil servants and an aide each). Sara and Cle'o were dressed in matching black buisness suits with white dress shirts.

Cle'o de Me'rode stepped forward and shook Gilda's hand. "Grand Cardinal Heather Gilda, I am Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Cle'o de Me'rode. Minister de Villepin sends his...complements and apologizes for being unable to attend personally on account of the Parliamentary Elections."

Sara then stepped forward, a confident glint in her eye, and with a smile offered Gilda her hand. "Grand Cardnal Heather Gilda, I am Vice Minister of Defense Sara Liscel... It is a pleasure to meet you..."

Gilda noticed a very pleasant floral fragrance, obviously perfume…

General Levitt was not a popular figure with the Amestrians, and she was quite controversial in Kahanistan, too. However, she would try to prevent a brawl in the meeting on world TV, it wouldn't do to have her videotaped beating the crap out of Liscel or whatever her name was in front of forty trillion people.

She strode over to the Amestrian. One could read her name tag, as she was in uniform, unusual for her at such functions. The earrings did detract from her appearance of professionalism, maybe that was what she wanted. They would know who she was at a glance.

The general was about three inches shorter than Liscel, but had a somewhat masculine bearing. She noticed the Amestrians introducing themselves to the Xirniumites, and looked coldly at Liscel. How I'd love to embarrass her in front of the world... if I could confront her with incontrovertible evidence of those killings... but that bastard Kalazanov destroyed the evidence so he's probably going to get off... Dick.

Grand Cardinal Heather Gilda accepted Liscel’s hand elegantly, though with perhaps a somewhat forced smile. The Foreign Minister was flanked by several aides who all stood back a respectful distance from her.

Lady Gilda did not fail to notice that the Amestrian Vice Minister was of considerable feminine beauty. In her extremely high heels, the Grand Cardinal managed to tower several inches taller then Liscel.

‘The pleasure is all mine,' explained Lady Gilda as she turned to the Deputy Foreign Minister, performing the very slightest of nods to the collective Amestrian delegation. It is formal etiquette, after all, she thought.

'It is a shame that Minister de Villepin could not personally attend the conference,’ Grand Cardinal Gilda remarked, ‘though it is fortunate that he has sent such undoubtedly highly competent civil servants in his stead.’ The Amestrians may perhaps have noticed the slightest hint of mocking condescension in Lady Gilda’s voice.

‘I am looking forward to hearing your… interesting theories on governance when this conference finally begins.’

The Deputy Minister sighed; she had noticed Gilda's subtle condensation. "Amestria is not pulling a Saint Fedski. We have full access to all relevant information and full decision-making authority. I would appreciate it if you did not insult my qualifications. It is after all us lifers who keep the social system running... Excuse me."

Cle'o walked out of earshot and began conversing with another member of her delegation.

Sara seemed not to mind the condensation. "I hear you enjoy Chardonnay wine...?"

The Grand Cardinal raised her eyebrows slightly as Ms de Me'rode stormed away, though she did not bother to apologise.

So easily offended… Grand Cardinal Gilda noted silently and with some satisfaction.

Lady Gilda smiled broadly at Liscel's question, it was quite abrupt and unexpected. ‘You have heard that, have you?’ the Foreign Minister asked, her enchanting hazel eyes regarding the Amestrian delegate carefully. ‘Indeed I do, it is my favourite white varietal wine.’

"I have with me a delightful white wine from The Manor, 47 years old, older then both of us... This Convention shall not officially begin for some time... Perhaps we could find a quiet private corner or room where we can have a drink together and talk...cordially."

‘You just so happen to have a chardonnay wine in your possession, do you? Isn’t that most fortuitous,’ the Grand Cardinal observed, her eyes narrowing suspiciously.

‘I suppose since the conference is not expected to begin for some time I could briefly indulge in a little wine with you,' Lady Gilda suggested absentmindedly, checking her stylish watch with a flick of her wrist. 'It's such a beautiful day, we rarely experience such pleasant weather in Holy Xirnium. Perhaps we could go out into the gardens of the Admiralty.’

"I did not just happen to have it with me..."

Sara paused and thought about Gilda's suggestion. "It is rather chilly out, being winter and all...winds blowing down from the north. Perhaps somewhere warm where we could relax...?"

The Grand Cardinal’s face showed slight irritation, she had neither the patience nor inclination to debate over where they could go to drink a glass of wine. It isn’t even vaguely cold, not by Xirniumite standards, she thought to herself.

‘There are a couple of parlours off this entrance hall where we can sit and talk if you like. Will that suffice?’ she asked, distractedly looking around.

"Lead the way..." Sara replied softly.

The parlour that the Grand Cardinal entered from the main lobby was a medium sized windowed room with a collection of armchairs and a small fireplace (which, since it was during the day, was not lit). Apart from the two ladies, the room was unoccupied.

Choosing a random chair, the Foreign Minister sat down, crossing her legs at the knee. Lady Gilda gestured to an adjacent chair, waiting expectantly for the Amestrian Vice Minister of Defence to sit.

(Before entering the Parlor.)

Sara was perplexed by the flood of Novan activity around her. "We are not going outside; we are going to a private room for a private moment."

(Arriving at the Parlor.)

Sara kicked off her heals, removed her jacket, loosened her tie, and then sat down. She pulled another chair up to rest her feet on. Sara took the bottle from her bag, along with a corkscrew, and began to gently uncork the bottle. "You can remove that stuffy cloak and those high heels...which must be very uncomfortable."

She looked around. "Are there any glasses or will we have to drink directly from the bottle?"

Before Entering the Parlour

The Grand Cardinal grinned in amusment as the Novans nosily entered the entrance hall, they were certainly nothing if not distinctly unique. The Foreign Minister made a mental note to talk privately with the delegation later.

‘A pleasure, Ambassador Valcus Torrodell, I’ve heard so much about you,’ the Grand Cardinal replied, reciprocating the half bow and shaking the man’s hand warmly.

After Entering the Parlour

The Foreign Minister frowned slightly as she watched Liscel. ‘I see you are making yourself quite comfortable,’ Lady Gilda noted humorously, the corners of her mouth curling into a smile. Considering the Vice Minister’s proposal briefly the Grand Cardinal removed her dark cloak, draping it carefully over the armrest of her chair. Since this was meerly a casual meeting the atire could be forgone, in fact there were many days when she didn't even bother wearing it to formal sittings of the High Ecclesiarchy.

Without her formal cloak it could be clearly seen that Lady Gilda wore a sophisticated grey skirted suit. Of course, Lady Gilda had no intention of removing her shoes, as the Amestrian Vice Minister of Defence had done.

The Grand Cardinal laughed friendly at Liscel’s suggestion, scoffing at the notion. ‘Drinking from the bottle is frightfully uncivilised. There should be some glasses in a cabinet next to your chair.'

General Levitt smiled widely at General Kitas and extended her hand. "Hello. My friend told me about you, you met her at Project Alpha. So, why is Novacom attending these talks? From what I heard there wasn't any Novan involvement in Torontia."

The petite woman made eye contact with the Novan, waiting for his response.

Sara retrieved the glasses from the cupboard and with a loud pop unscrewed the cork. She then poured a moderate amount of white wine into each of the glasses. “Vin est vie.” She handed one of the glasses to Gilda.

"This is some of the finest wine in the world; I hope you will recommend The Manor's wine to your friends when trade is restored..."

Sara picked up her glass, "Cheers."

(OOC: This wine is some of the best in the world.)

Lady Heather Gilda laughed grimly at the Amestrian's words. 'I assume, Ms Liscel, that by "when trade is restored” you actually mean “when the Amestrian government moves beyond its childish silliness and repeals its anti-Xirniumite legislation". We can only hope,' the Grand Cardinal said insincerely, shrugging.

Lady Heather Gilda drank deeply from the glass, grudgingly admitting to herself that it was indeed quite excellent. Given Holy Xirnium’s cold temperate climate few vineyards of any kind existed, and the vast majority of wines in the Xirniumite market were imported from France, Spain and Italy.

General Levitt took General Kitas' hand. "Brigadier General Rachel Levitt, commander of the Military Assistance Command, Torontia."

"Nadia cracked you against a window? That doesn't sound like her, she's pretty gentle." He didn't grope her, did he? But Nadia's not the violent type... She might have slapped him, if he was really nasty...

She looked the general over, for the scars. "How did that happen?" She sat down and invited him to sit next to her.

Liscel drained her glass and poured herself another. She then offered to refill Gilda's glass.

Sara smiled at Gilda's remark, "You enjoy constantly being on the offensive, being dominant, don't you...?"

She glanced down at Gilda's heels.

"Do you make love while wearing those heels? In all honesty that question has been driving me crazy ever since I saw you in them... If my question is offensive chalk it up to cultural difference...and feel free to ask me something personal in return."

Liscel asked her question in much the same manner as one would ask another to pass the toast. She seemed completely at ease, relaxed, in control. Her sweet Floral perfume gave the room a pleasant feel...almost as if they were outside in a garden (minus the actual garden).

The look on the Grand Cardinal’s face did not betray even the smallest hint of emotion, to all appearances her manner was completely impassive. If anything Lady Gilda found the sheer audacity of Liscel's enquiry amusing, an amateurish ploy. This lovely bureaucrat has some nerve, but I doubt she realises her peril...

'Your question is not offensive to me at all, Ms Liscel, and if it were it would not be because of cultural differences. Your question is, however, very personal, and we are not friends,' Lady Gilda explained simply.

'So you will forgive me if I wont answer your query,' continued the Grand Cardinal. 'My private love life is none of your concern.'

The Foreign Minister nodded towards the wine glass, indicating that the Amestrian should refill it. If Liscel had thought her comment would unsettle the Xirniumite politician, she appeared to be wrong.

‘Tell me why Amestria has sent a delegation here, to what will surely be the funeral of your Torontian puppet government. I must confess the answer has eluded me,’ the Grand Cardinal remarked, smiling pleasantly.

Nadia does not get rough... it must have been an accident, or this Liscel or the Xirniumite must have done it...

"Perverting?" General Levitt didn't know the meaning of the word. Well, she did, but she was more open-minded than Sklenova had been. In fact, the two women were in many ways polar opposites, it was hard to believe they were friends.

"Well, it's in your hair, it's not like it would be that visible," she said, smiling. "I didn't see it myself, until you pointed it out." She sat back in her chair.

"This is the first diplomatic function I've been to of this level." She'd been to lesser diplomatic functions before, but mostly things like weapon demonstrations, agreements to build bases on foreign soil and the like. She had certainly never been to a meeting that would radically shape the future of a nation before.

"You seem to not like Liscel." This was probably an understatement. Levitt herself wished she had some evidence of killings to destroy the Amestrians' goals at the conference and humiliate Liscel.

"Did she try to do anything like that at Project Alpha?"

Romp on a cruise? That really doesn't sound like Nadia. She might have gone with Liscel on the same ship, but... well, Nadia had written to her by e-mail before. The only reason Levitt didn't tell her about the Amestrian atrocities was that she didn't have much time for more than brief correspondence, in fact, buried up to her hips in paperwork as she was, she barely had time to read what Nadia said to her.

Still thinking about how to embarrass Liscel, the general thought of a book that General al-Ghazi had written recently, On the Amestrians and their Lies. She had read it, but decided it wouldn't be a good source to cite as proof of Amestrian atrocities, that man was even crazier than she was. It was a good read, though, but she had foolishly picked it up without looking at the author's name. Too bad the author's stark raving mad. If I pull it out in the conference my damned aide will push me out of that conference so fast...

Her aide was in the loo, evidently constipated, he'd been in for over half an hour. But he wasn't there to keep her from socializing with the other delegates, he was only there to make sure she didn't embarrass Kahanistan at the conference.

"So, what are Novacom's intentions at this meeting? Kahanistan's motives are quite simple, the unification of Torontia and justice for the victims of the Amestrian genocide." A copy of On the Amestrians and their Lies, by Sheikh Abdullah Hassan al-Ghazi, poked out of her bag, revealing its distinctive cover to anyone sitting close enough to her to see it.

First Torontian Constitutional Convention Venue, Seattle, Torontia, 1230 Local Time

The two bodyguards preceded Kil into the main hall, and two followed behind him, as usual. They scanned the room, silently appraising all present, analyzing for threats. Kil himself had something of a smile on his face; the flight to Torontia wasn't too long, and he was feel more well-rested than he had in some time. Combined with his optimism over the new Torontian constitution and the prospect of sealing Halberdgardian-Xirniumite relations, he felt up to anything.

One of Kil's bodyguards leaned in to speak in his ear. "Sir, we've received news from the HCIA that the Amestrians have sent a delegation composed of Vice Minister of Defense Sara Liscel and Deputy Foreign Minister Cle’o de Me’rode. They're assembling dossiers for your review as we speak."

Goddammit, Kil thought, those Amestrian bastards just can't keep their hands to themselves, can they? But he only nodded and said in a low voice, "Keep me appraised."

"Yessir," the man replied before returning to his watch position a respectful distance away.

Kil approached a petite woman who appeared to be a Kahanistanian military officer, having spotted the copy of On the Amestrians and their Lies sticking out of her bag.

"An interesting choice of reading," he said coolly, but with a hint of a smile on his lips. He extended his hand. "Kenix Kil."

"To your health," said General Levitt.

She took a sip. It was some of the weirdest stuff she'd ever had. "1111?" Are these guys using the same calendar as us? "So this stuff is almost 900 years old?" No wonder it tastes so weird. Then again, it could just be Novan wine.

She then turned to the Halberdgardian President, took his hand, and smiled. "Brigadier General Rachel Levitt." She looked down at the book. "I didn't look at who the author was until I was on the base with it," she said, picking up the book.

"I was looking for information I could use to show that the Amestrians committed genocide in Torontia, but most of the evidence Kahanistan had was destroyed." She sounded a little cross, but still friendly. "I can't show this, the man who wrote it is an anti-Amestrian maniac."

Sara smiled pleasantly back, refilled the Cardinals wine glass and then took a sip of her own. She then placed her glass on the table and began to slowly rotating it with her right hand…

“So it’s right to business then… You ask why Amestria has sent a delegation… My dear, why would Amestria, given its history of involvement, peacekeeping and institution building in Torontia, not have sent a delegation?”

Liscel took another sip from her glass and then placed it back on the table. She continued rotating it.

“Let’s get right down to what each of us wants from this convention. You are Heather Gilda, Grand Cardinal and Foreign Minister… You are considered one of two lead contenders for the leadership of the ruling Xirnium Progressive Democracy Party once the present leader, Lord Nidor, retires. Whoever leads the ruling party heads the Xirnium government and presides over the legislative body that collectively has the power of a head of State… Impressive, given you are only 38 and Nidor is 94… Your opponent is the Defense Minister, Ameas Vernius…who at present has a tactical advantage. While you are here in Seattle, he remains at home, able to lobby for votes and support…not to mention whisper against you in dark corners. Meanwhile your performance is being watched, and should this convention fail, it could greatly subtract from your chances of victory…if not sink your candidacy. You want a success; you want to return to Xirnium to great acclaim.”

Sara paused.

“As for my own career, in all honesty what happens here in Torontia will have little effect upon it. Three months after my sister is sworn in as President I will be a Minister and Member of Parliament…more likely then not a future Prime Minister. However since I will be a prominent member of the new government, it is in my interest to see that it has fewer…difficulties.

Again, Sara paused.

“You want to be Chief Minister and I do not want the first year of the new Centralist Government wasted butting heads with Xirnium over, among other things, this North American backwater.”

Sara sat straight up and met the Cardinals gaze.

“We are both Europeans, I am sure we can reach an understanding.”

Lady Gilda laughed amicably at the delegate’s response.

‘My... haven’t we done our research,’ the Grand Cardinal mused, leaning forward in her seat towards the Amestrian Vice Minister while regarding her critically. Lady Gilda took a long sip from her wine glass, discerning Liscel’s pleasing floral perfume to be more noticeable from this distance.

‘Were I you, however, I would be careful not to put too much faith on your hope that the leadership issues of the XPDP will provide substantial leverage for use in this Constitutional Convention. True, unlike you I do not have the luxury of family connections to guarantee the advancement of my career. I do not have the good fortune of working in a governmental system where one doesn’t need to justify their political appointment by results, but merely by whom they know,’ the Foreign Minister explained smugly, flashing a disarming smile. 'A bungled conference would indeed be a disaster to my personal political objectives at home,' the Grand Cardinal noted, with perhaps a slight tone of concern in her voice.

‘That said,’ Lady Gilda continued slowly, ‘I’m afraid it all comes to nought for one simple reason, and that is that I don’t believe the Amestrian government can affect anything here - in this "North American backwater" as you so eloquently put it. No doubt you’ve noticed that Amestria no longer has a presence in Torontia. In my humble opinion, Amestria’s status in this situation has been relegated to that of an irrelevant relic from the past. The High Ecclesiarchy has isolated your government, and its Torontian puppet regime.’

‘Of course, my dear, I’m certain we will reach an understanding. You will likely find such a thing quite preferable to the alternative of continued enmity with the High Ecclesiarchy,’ Lady Gilda promised, grinning as if the two were the closest of friends.

"I have a PHD in Government Service. The Amestrian State's culture and legal tradition of Règle par des experts would not allow for an individual to hold a position they were not qualified to hold..."

Liscel leaned forward in her chair.

"You have a fairly inaccurate view of the extent of our remaining influence... Amestria could make life quite difficult for Xirnium in Torontia if it really wanted to... However, Amestria does not wish to and I am sure you also have no wish to roll the dice...especially since you will find the positions we take most reasonable... In the meantime, please stop your unwarranted criticism of our State, of the Torontian Provisional Government, and of Amestria's past efforts in Torontia. One should not go to the toilet where one eats. We are here in good faith and the TPG has already made clear that it will dissolve itself upon the formation of a new national government. Your little barbs have only caused annoyance in Amestria and alarmed the TPG leadership. The fortifications along the East-West border would most likely been dismantled by now if you had just refrained from making threatening and unproductive statements."

Liscel sighed and stretched her right arm behind her back...while making a subtle glance at Gilda's legs. She then leaned forward even further, resting her elbows on the table, meeting the Cardinals gaze directly. She has such lovely eyes.

"Do you want a successful convention that solves the Torontian question, ends the diplomatic freeze between Xirnium and Amestria, and insures your own election to the position of Chief Minister? I am sure you do, so please come down from that pedestal you have ungracefully perched yourself upon and lets hear what you want without insults..."

Sara noticed the Cardinals drained wine glass. "Care some more wine?" she asked, returning Gilda's friendly grin.

‘What you euphemistically term “Règle par des experts” sounds to me more like a mechanism to ensure that the Amestrian aristocratic dynasties firmly maintain their status as your nation’s ruling class,’ the Grand Cardinal scoffed teasingly, showing her less then flattering opinion of Amestria’s governmental system.

Lady Gilda was not particularly impressed with Liscel’s academic achievements either, having herself been awarded a doctoral degree in countercyclical fiscal policy at the prestigious Naerath University – and without the benefit of being born into a patrician family as this Amestrian bureaucrat has, she added silently.

Noticing Liscel’s furtive look at her long legs, the Grand Cardinal realised at the same time that she had started absentmindedly dangling her stiletto shoe from her foot. ‘You are here in good faith, are you?’ repeated Lady Gilda, smiling. ‘My dear, I doubt that very much. The High Ecclesiarchy proved at the Kurora Conference that your “good faith” really involves little more then the protection of your own selfish interests – though ironically this time the situation is much reversed and I hold all the cards.

Don’t insult my intelligence by pretending the Amestrian government has altruistic motives, for if they had then they wouldn’t be here,’ the Foreign Minister opined, her lips breaking out into a stunning smile. 'It's not as if you've not done enough damage in Torontia.'

Lady Gilda held out her wine glass while she silently waited for Liscel refill it, taking another long sip when the Vice Minister was done. Though the chardonnay was not particularly alcoholic, the Foreign Minister had already consumed quite a bit of wine today and she felt her cheeks flush a little from the heat and she tugged at the collar of her blouse.

‘Look, I definitely understand that your government no longer wishes to have the High Ecclesiarchy criticising them publicly at every opportunity, certainly the damage done to Amestria has not been minor,’ Lady Gilda explained. The Foreign Minister grinned good-naturedly - she had been the principle architect behind Holy Xirnium’s political assault on the Amestrian government, and had been extremely pleased by the havoc she had wrought. ‘To be fair we’ve nothing more to gain from attacking you, it might suprise you but the High Ecclesiarchy actually has more important matters to concern itself with.’

‘As for refraining from criticising your puppet government, absolutely not!’ Lady Gilda declared, laughing.

Sara continued to smile back, although her smile had taken on a certain teasing quality...

"Kurora accomplished nothing because Saint Fedski sent two flunkies to stonewall. That whole enterprise was doomed from the start... Besides, now the Torontian situation is completely different."

Liscel paused to refill her wine glass.

"And do not insult my intelligence with a select reading of events from your unique perspective. Amestria saved Western Torontia from being carved up by Imperialist powers, Amestria reestablished order, Amestria built institutions, and Amestria crushed a pro-New Order insurgency and prevented the spread of a deadly virus with an over 90% lethality rate if untreated..."

“You may not agree with our State's methods, but they worked and further debate on that subject is pointless. As for the legality of our actions, Torontia was a legal no mans land after Tanakis fled, historians will be debating the legality of our occupation, of Saint Fedski's occupation...and of Xirniums occupation for that matter for centuries..."

Sara paused. The room had become a little stuffy. She removed her necktie and placed it on the table. She then took another sip of wine and continued.

"Your criticism of the TPG has just alienated its leadership and has actually hindered your efforts. To move forward on Torontian reunification you will need the agreement of the TPG. The TPG has already established that it will dissolve with the formation of a new unitary national government, your...comments have been counter productive and I fail to see how they benefit Xirnium in anyway."

As she spoke, Sara found herself once again stealing quick glances at Heathers legs and hips.

"In Tisonnier, when a player brags about all the cards she has, she tends to be bluffing... If you really held all the cards you would not be talking to me now would you... Perhaps we should move past general positions and platitudes and focus on specifics...”

General Levitt pulled out the large book to show to the two men on either side of her. The cover of On the Amestrians and their Lies dropped open, revealing a table of contents.*

"This is the book I'd hoped was going to help show the Amestrians up... it does cite its sources, but on further research... hardly any of the sources are Amestrian, and ALL of those are biased, needless to say given that two chapters are attacks on Kasumi Liscel in particular. There are a few other foreign sources, but most sources are Kahanistanian, far-right lunatics like al-Ghazi himself."

"I should REALLY have looked at the author first... But you might like to read it." She opened the book across her lap so the two men next to her could read it, then finished off her glass of Novan wine.

Facing General Kitas, she finally decided to pop the question. "General, do you happen to have any other evidence that proves that genocide took place in Torontia?"

(*This is the table of contents.)

Introduction: Amestria's description of itself 1 - 17
Part 1: Amestrian Internal Policy
Chapter 1: A Description of the Amestrian State 18 - 44
Chapter 2: Regle par des Experts 45 - 81
Chapter 3: Amestrian Militarism and Imperialism 82 - 123
Part 2: The Dishonesty of Amestrian Foreign Policy
Chapter 4: Torontia Before, During, and After the Tanakis regime 124 - 169
Chapter 5: Lethal Quarantine Lines: To Contain Viruses or Political Opponents? 170 - 198
Chapter 6: What REALLY happened to the captured "insurgents"? 199 - 217
Chapter 7: Proof of Amestrian Cover-Ups 218 - 246
Chapter 8: Amestrian Designs on Kahanistan 247 - 281
Part 3: The Medieval and Aristocratic Nature of Amestria
Chapter 9: Pedophilia, Incest, and Other Perversions in the Prominent Political Families of Amestria, Part 1 282 - 318
Chapter 10: Amestrian Presidential and Other Political Candidates 319 - 353
Chapter 11: The Liscel Dictatorship: Back from the Mass Grave Under Kasumi? 354 - 377
Chapter 12: The Thinly Veiled Marxist-Leninist-Stalinist-Maoist Gangsterism of the Aristocracy 378 - 396
Chapter 13: Pedophilia, Incest, and Other Perversions in the Prominent Political Families of Amestria, Part 2 397 - 422
Part 4: Conclusion
Chapter 14: The Hypocrisy of the Amestrian State 423 - 456
Chapter 15: Amestria's Joke of a Foreign Policy 457 - 488
Chapter 16: Amestria as a Medieval Nation 489 - 512
Chapter 17: Bibliography 513 - 522
About the Author 523 - 524

Outside the Admiralty Building

Colonel Antaerion watched aloofly as the veteran Novan Ambassador inspected his paramilitary troops, marching along the line of flawlessly formed up soldiers. It seems that Mr Torrodell was not merely boasting when he took me up on my wager to try and find any faults in my troops during an inspection, the greying commander thought dourly even as Valcus pointed out another almost imperceptible incorrectness.

I must be getting too soft in my old age, the Colonel thought with an internal chuckle, that or this Novan is one tough taskmaster indeed.

Antaerion remembered his earlier days as a Warrant Officer, back when he had held the feared position of Regimental Sergent Major of his battalion. A favoured trick of the Colonel’s at inspection had been to slowly scrape the thin edge of a small piece of paper along the face of ever man in his unit, listening carefully for even the tiniest sound that they had not shaved that morning. The wait to see if the soldier's standards were to be deemed acceptable as the Colonel listened intently was often terrifying to new recuits - which was entirely the point, Antaerion thought grimly.

Needless to say, the punishment meted out to those that failed the test ensured that their sloppiness was not repeated. His soldiers may have thought him harsh, but he was certainly fair.

The inspection finished, evidently satisfactorily, the Xirniumites marched off to perform their numerous other duties. ‘Hmpff,’ Colonel Antaerion grunted, turning and walking away briskly, back into the Admiralty.


Inside the Parlour

'Hot, are we?' Lady Gilda asked mockingly as the Amestrian delegate fidgeted. The Foreign Minister paused briefly as Liscel removed her tie, fleetingly glimpsing the slender, feminine shape of her neck.

At Sara's comments the Grand Cardinal smiled distantly, seemingly lost for a moment in her own thoughts. ‘Ahh, I see now,' Lady Gilda began slowly. 'If I truly held all the cards I would hardly need to be in conversation with you at this very moment. But perhaps I’m talking with you because I find you so very charming, my dear,’ Lady Gilda suggested insincerely, draining the chardonnay from her glass. ‘Or maybe it is because I really am quite fond of white wine,’ the Foreign Minister added, looking at how the light glinted off the empty wineglass before extending her arm towards Liscel so that she could refill it.

Then again, perhaps you simply conceive of the issues in too limited a manner, of involving Torontia and little else, hmmm? Little do you realise, then, that the High Ecclesiarchy plays chess on a grand scale, the Foreign Minister thought smugly.

‘But do at least spare me your tired old Amestrian propaganda, there’s no need for it here,’ Lady Gilda requested sternly, bringing her attention back to the present. An amused smile played at the corners of the Grand Cardinal’s lips. ‘Amestria saved Western Torontia from being carved up by imperialist powers… by imperialistically carving it up itself? Amestria re-established order… by dismantling the rule of law in its occupied territories? Amestria protected Torontians from a bioweapon… by killing them? Please.’ Lady Gilda laughed pleasantly at the notion.

‘As for what the historians will say,’ the Grand Cardinal continued, her glass held high, ‘they will say that, when faced with the dilemma of what to do with the portion of Torontia that happened to come into its custody, the High Ecclesiarchy, rightfully, decided not to install its own puppet government (as both the Amestrians and Saint Fedskians had done before them). Rather, Holy Xirnium gave Torontia back to the people,’ Lady Gilda explained with a triumphant smile. ‘Rather noble, wouldn’t you agree?’ She now toyed idly with her lovely blonde hair, taking a further sip of the excellent wine.

‘You will find, Ms Liscel, that the High Ecclesiarchy will not in fact need the TPG for anything. As you and your puppet government have already said, the TPG has agreed to be dissolved, and the international community will not abide any further deviations from the path that leads to Torontian self-rule. Your puppet regime is ultimately doomed, and I will not be the only person who utters “good riddance” at its passing.’

Lady Gilda could not help but feel somewhat flattered by the attention that she was receiving from the Amestrian Vice Minister’s roving eyes, and her heartbeat quickened slightly. Certainly one could say that the lush figure of Sara Liscel was not unappealing also.

‘If you want to focus on specifics then by all means,’ the Grand Cardinal continued. ‘Repeal every anti-Xirniumite statute immediately, renounce the original policy by the Amestrian government as having been a most grievous injustice, and publicly apologise to every Xirniumite affected by your State’s foolishness while also providing compensation for the wrongs unfairly inflicted on them. I’m afraid I cannot be any more specific then that,’ Lady Gilda explained, smiling with maddening arrogance.

[OOC: After not being here for a week, I'm behind on some aspects of this. Could someone please explain to me what has happened so I can post having the TLP and my Colonel Kietz arrive and the like?]

[OOC: After not being here for a week, I'm behind on some aspects of this. Could someone please explain to me what has happened so I can post having the TLP and my Colonel Kietz arrive and the like?]

OOC: Seconded; even though I've been here the GE/GFFA situation has taken precedence as the Deathstar and Galaxy Gun are very, very real threats to Tannenmille now as I'm FT and just seceded from the Empire and joined its enemy. I'll still be in this RP and will be watching it closer and participating in the future, however.

OOC: Basically the delegates have been burning time talking while they wait for the conference to start. You haven't missed anything, since nothing has happened.

Are we good to go now, did you get those computer problems sorted out?

Are we good to go now, did you get those computer problems sorted out?

[OOC: My computer is fixed now. I fried a CPU fan and overloaded some kind of plastic clip or something. It's great now though.]

Skies over Seattle, Torontia

The maroon Lambda-class shuttle of a Tannenmillian diplomat flew low, just beneath the clouds, toward Seattle International Airport. Keying the radio, the pilot spoke into his headset. "Seattle International, this is Sierra Golf Zero Four Four Three, requesting landing permission on a helipad. Cargo is two passengers: 1st Lieutenant Jacob Schneider of the Sucellan Army's Dororsyforce and an honor guard accompaniment. Sierra Gold Zero Four Four Three, over."

Entering the landing queue, the Lambda-class shuttle awaited a response from Seattle Air Control.

Seattle, East Torontia

‘This is the Xirniumite Aerospace Authority for Army Group Torontia, at Seattle International Aerodrome. Flight Sierra Golf Zero Four Four Three has been granted permission to land at helipad AE-7. We have been requested by the Occupational Ruling Council to inform you that the transport which your government requested is also available. Out.’

She then turned to the Halberdgardian President, took his hand, and smiled. "Brigadier General Rachel Levitt." She looked down at the book. "I didn't look at who the author was until I was on the base with it," she said, picking up the book.

"I was looking for information I could use to show that the Amestrians committed genocide in Torontia, but most of the evidence Kahanistan had was destroyed." She sounded a little cross, but still friendly. "I can't show this, the man who wrote it is an anti-Amestrian maniac."

Kil nodded and smiled knowingly. "Yes, I've heard som rather interesting anecdotes of General al-Ghazi's exploits. How is he doing at the polls these days, if I may ask? The last I knew, he held some ten percent of the vote."

He paused, then reminded himself why he was here. "General, would you happen to know where Grand Cardinal Gilda is? She wished to speak with me on some matter of importance."

Crossing into the Seattle "zone," an IMA convoy moved quickly and effectively. A COV-08 IFV provided the transportation for Colonel Kietz (also his command and control area,) and a COV-TMSC Scout Car moved in the rear of the formation. In it was Josh Ward, of the TLP.

This wasn't an official sign of McKagan support for the TLP, as any political party in Torontia could ask for McKagan assistance in transportation. That and the fact that General Sita wasn't about to lose his political movement in Torontia to some crackpot socialist with a gun or a roadside bomb.

Soon they arrived at the conference zone, and after a parking lot across the street was secured by a small force of the urban infantry (about 20 of them, although no one would notice them unless they happened to use an abandoned parking lot for something else.)

In Western Torontia a variety of other assets were available to protect the Colonel, including a fast moving Guardian Falcon regiment and several helicopters.

"More like fifteen recently, but still not enough to win, baruch HaShem,*" said General Levitt. "As for Gilda, she went out those doors with Liscel." She pointed at the door Gilda and Liscel had exited through and made a lewd gesture. "I wouldn't interrupt them, if you get my drift. Liscel's probably seducing her as we speak."

On the contrary, do interrupt them, I'd like to be able to show the whole assembly what a corrupt, manipulative piece of shit Liscel is. I'd also like to know what she did to Nadia...

*"Thank God" in Hebrew.

General Levitt smiled, taking another sip. Now I have the Amestrians right where I want them... right in my hands. She was going to shit on Liscel from such a height that she would think God himself was crapping... if the Amestrian believed in God.

"While we're waiting for the files on Amestrian atrocities to get here, what did you think of Nadia when you met her in St. Fedski?"

"More like fifteen recently, but still not enough to win, baruch HaShem," said General Levitt. "As for Gilda, she went out those doors with Liscel." She pointed at the door Gilda and Liscel had exited through and made a lewd gesture. "I wouldn't interrupt them, if you get my drift. Liscel's probably seducing her as we speak."

On the contrary, do interrupt them, I'd like to be able to show the whole assembly what a corrupt, manipulative piece of shit Liscel is. I'd also like to know what she did to Nadia...

[OOC: I didn't know Kahanistanians spoke Hebrew...do Jews make up a large part of Kahanistan, or does Levitt just happen to be Jewish?]

Kil nodded, catching on to what Levitt was intimating. "Right," he said with that hint of a smile lingering, "naturally, I won't interrupt them."

He walked off to a few unoccupied couches surrounding a coffee table near a corner. His bodyguards followed as he sat, and they gathered close to him, picking up on the sense that he needed to speak with them. "Who wants to do a little dirty work?" he said to them.

One man spoke up. "What do you need, Mr. President?" he asked in a low voice.

Kil smiled. "I need you to interrupt a sensitive meeting. Pose as Security, and grab Gilda and Liscel. Interrupt them, bring them back in, do whatever, but make sure you record whatever's happening. If you catch Liscel in an incriminating act, make sure you get it. We'll forward it to the HCIA, and they can have some fun with it."

The bodyguard grinned, then quickly killed it. "Roger that, sir." The bodyguard settled back in his chair, thinking up a plan. Kil and the other bodyguards, meanwhile, continued to converse amongst themselves.

The general smiled knowingly at President Kil as he strode over to the sofa with his guards, knowing the Amestrians were soon to get their comeuppance.

She leaned back, rubbing her hands together. This is going to be fun.

(*Kahanistan is about 20-30% Jewish, and Hebrew is one of the official languages of Kahanistan, the other three being Arabic, Latin, and English. And yes, General Levitt is from a Jewish family, but secular.)

It was late by the time Mark Brovan arrived. Quickly departing while still adjusting his suit he looked up at the building with distaste. Prepare for a day of listening to the armchair bound leaders brag and moan about their
un-remarkable lives, It makes me sick. He thought pulling on the tie and over coat. One of the guards with him murmered to him before getting back in the car. "We can have someone in the room in 30 seconds if something happens." The Black Hand soldier said before driving off.

Before the Novacom Interruption

“Apologize?” Sara tossed her head back and gave a delightful laugh. As she tossed her head back, she pushed the fingers of her left hand through her rich and sensual hair. “I see no reason for our State to apologize for exercising its sovereignty.” She returned the Cardinal’s arrogant smile with one of her own. Her face then took on a rather bored expression.

“However, the anti-Xirniumite statutes will be revoked by Parliament after the election, they were silly anyway… They only succeeded in reducing Amestria’s total luxury exports.”

Sara removed a folder from her bag, tossed it upon the table, and leaned forward. “As for Amestrian Imperialism, that is absurd, we never had any designs upon Torontian territory… Unlike others who openly admitted their intent… The State of Halberdgardia attempted the annexation of Torontia, but they were prevented by a chorus of condemnation from Amestria, Yallak, the Lone Alliance…and others… I fear that President Kil may not have given up on such ambitions…”

(Information in the folder)

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9872927&postcount=37

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9873215&postcount=57

Liscel could not help but be distracted as Gilda toyed idly with her luscious hair. As Sara regained her focus, she found herself licking her lips with the tip of her tongue.

“Yes, Xirnium gave Torontia back to the people, whatever that means, but Xirnium moved into a pacified Torontia. Your government has moved its forces into an area managed for over a year by other powers. Government services have been reestablished, the Torontian financial system stabilized, the weapons looted from the military arsenals during the chaos before the occupation confiscated and once again locked up, all New Order insurgent activity suppressed, Red Tide forced out…my dear, your government has indeed behaved quite nobly,” Sara twisted the word sarcastically “but all the hard work was shouldered beforehand by others… Primarily by Amestria…”

Sara noticed that the Cardinal had once again emptied her glass and grabbed up the bottle.

“Furthermore, you will need the TPG’s cooperation for an orderly transition period and the transference of regional resources to the new national government, once it has been established. Surly you recognize that needlessly antagonizing those whose cooperation you need is not the way to get things done…”

Sara once again refilled the Cardinals glass.

“I am really glad you find my company…and the wine…charming” Sara placed the wine bottle once again upon the table. “Once trade is resumed we have a catalog you could subscribe to and make orders from…you can sign up to receive it online… If there is one thing we share it is an appreciation for the finer things…”

Sara sat back and crossed her legs. “For the Convention to go smoothly it is probably best that the debates and differences of the past, whether it is the legitimacy of government action or allegations of illegality, be left in the past. This Convention is best focused on the future…” Sara gave the Cardinal a pleasant smile and once more looked into her eyes. “I hope we have an understanding.”


After the Novacom Interruption

Malignant individual! Ghastly perfume! Sara, irritated by the interruption and outraged by Valcus’s remarks, stood up to full height. Her voice was calm but menacing. “How dare you interrupt us, we were discussing important matters of State. I am Vice Minister of Defense Sara Liscel and I will not stand to be insulted in such a manner! The head of your delegation will hear of this!”

Sara grabbed her jacket and put it back on, picked her necktie up and stuffed it into her jacked pocket and then began to put her shoes back on. While she put on her shoes, she quietly pouted to Gilda. “Do you think my perfume is ghastly?”

Before the Novan Interruption

‘My dear, I believe you have not understood me correctly,’ began the Grand Cardinal, shaking her head while hiding her irritation behind a polite smile. ‘I do not presume to ask you to apologise for exercising Amestria’s sovereignty. Such a thing is well within the legal rights of your nation. Unlike certain regimes that have sought to impose their unjust laws on others, the High Ecclesiarchy values the doctrine of the sovereignty of nations,’ Lady Gilda remarked, flashing her flawless, white teeth in a stunning smile.

It was clear to both that the Grand Cardinal subtly referred to an incident several months ago where the Amestrian Courts had illegitimately attempted to try a Xirniumite attorney in absentia for political ends. The event had sparked an absolute furore, while earned the undying enmity of both Lady Gilda and the High Ecclesiarchy.

‘Rather,’ the Grand Cardinal continued friendly, ‘I’m asking instead that the Amestrian government apologise for making a foolishly unjust policy decision. Just because an action is legal does not mean it is wise, nor above criticism. Clearly Xirniumites were wronged, and the High Ecclesiarchy would like the Amestrian State to apologise to them while providing adequate compensation for the injustice.’

‘Ms Liscel, you claim to want to relegate our previous bitter differences firmly to the realm of the past,’ Lady Gilda continued, looking into the Amestrian’s gorgeous green eyes. ‘To be honest I would like nothing more. You could do exactly that (burying the hatchet, if you will) if your government will merely perform that… small favour for me,’ the Grand Cardinal assured her with feigned innocence, resting her head against her hand as she leant her elbow on the nearby table.

The Foreign Minister took a long sip from her wineglass, watching the Amestrian intently over its brim. After draining the glass, Lady Gilda leaning over the table and picked up the folder, leafing through its contents idly.

‘Halberdgardia’s imperialist and other policies and aims are well known to the High Ecclesiarchy,’ Lady Gilda finally commented, unimpressed, as she snapped the folder shut and returned it to the table. Smiling amiably, the Grand Cardinal continued, ‘I’m not entirely sure what point you are attempting to drive at. Regardless of what intentions the Halberdgardians may have had, it is hardly a relevant issue to the topic of Amestria’s own imperialism in Torontia. And, quite frankly, I’m not quite sure what you can call the unilateral installation of governmental institutions in a foreign nation by an occupying army but “imperialism”. The TPG is an imperial parliament!

No designs on Torontia indeed…’ the Foreign Minister remarked, laughing softly at the absurdity.

Noticing Liscel shifting in her chair, the Grand Cardinal’s eyes drifted to briefly to the desirably slim legs of the Amestrian Vice Minister. ‘Ms Liscel, the plain fact is that further diplomatic rows are no longer conductive to the High Ecclesiarchy’s short or long term objectives. Your puppet government can be made to cooperate. The fulfilment of our eventual goals for the successful reunification of Torontia is inevitable due to my successful isolation of your government. Arguing over the past would be pointless at best.

Consider well my offer of an olive branch of peace. I’m sure you will find it in the interests of…’

Heather Gilda was interrupted by the abrupt entry of the Novan ambassador. The Grand Cardinal closed her lovely eyes in irritation, annoyed at the sudden disruption of her train of thought. And just as I am making some headway with the stubborn Amestrian bureaucrat…

‘Thankyou Ambassador Valcus, that was most thoughtful of you,’ Lady Gilda finally replied politely, taking the wine bottle in her hand with a slight bow of thanks. The Foreign Minister tried not to feel insulted at being informed that General Kitas had been worried about her, or that the Ambassador felt her prone to “corruption”.

Whatever course of action a Grand Cardinal might take, he or she invariably took it with deliberate purpose, with some higher political plan in mind. The foolish suggestion that she could become some unwitting pawn in another’s political game threatened to infuriate her.

‘Perhaps later we might share it together, Ambassador Valcus?’ the Grand Cardinal proposed, smiling kindly.

The Amestrian delegate, on the other hand, had not accepted the interruption with the same good humour, and was hurt by the Novan’s comments. Or perhaps she merely feigns hurt? Lady Gilda wondered.

‘Do you think my perfume is ghastly,’ the distressed Amestrian asked.

‘Not at all, my dear,’ reassured the Foreign Minister honestly, though she smiled in amusment.

'My Lady?' spoke a new individual (one of the Grand Cardinal's aides) as she strode confidently into the room, several papers in hand. As the Xirniumite was not a Cardinal of the High Ecclesiarchy, she did not wear the formal Ecclesiastical burgandy cloak. 'You asked me to inform you as soon as the Halberdgardian President arrived?’

‘Ahh, thankyou Michelle. Please also inform the Ecclesiastical Secretary for Foreign Affairs,' Lady Gilda asked.

'Of course, your Eminence,' replied the aide as she left.

'Ms Liscel, you will need to excuse me. Much as I would like to,' Lady Gilda explained with amusment, unable to resist the oppourtunity to depart with a final slight, 'I unfortunately don’t have the time to converse with mere civil servants all day.’

‘Not at all, my dear,’ reassured the Foreign Minister honestly, though she smiled in amusment.


As soon as Sara heard the Cardinal’s reassurance, her face brightened up with a smile. "Thank you" she replied in a way that was almost bashful. Sara then endured the remainder of the Valcus’s abuse in silence, her eyes blazing with quiet fury. You will get yours!

Once Valcus had departed, Sara picked up her bag and placed its strap around her shoulder. She then walked over to Gilda, leaned close, placed her right hand lightly upon the Cardinal's shoulder, and whispered "We will discuss the details of the favor at a later time...perhaps somewhere where we will not be interrupted… Tonight."

Sara could not help but return the Cardinal's slight with a whispered tease and knowing look. "You wear those heels whenever you make love, don't you..."

Sara turned to leave, as she did so one of her breasts accidentally brushed against the Cardinals arm. Sara was slightly embarrassed, but kept her composer, acting as if nothing had happened. "A pleasure talking to you Lady Gilda."

Sara then calmly left the parlor.

The Grand Cardinal’s silent fury at the whispered comment was somewhat stifled by the seemingly accidental brush of the Amestrian woman’s breasts against her arm. Though her breathing quickened imperceptibly, Lady Heather Gilda pretended not to notice, smiling delightfully.

As soon as Liscel had left the room the expression on the Grand Cardinal’s face returned to its usual deadly seriousness. Fool, she thought scornfully, evidently none too impressed with the Amestrian Vice Minister’s diplomatic guile, or rather lack thereof. Methodically, the Foreign Minister ran over the conversation in her mind, attempting to discern hidden meanings or veiled threats.

Walking slowly back to her seat, Lady Heather Gilda picked up her carefully folded, long dark cloak, donning it with a flourish. The Foreign Minister felt the familiar sensation of power that invariably came from wearing the dark maroon garment.

‘There you are, Heather. How did your chat with the bureaucrat go?’ asked Lady Eleanor Sabelina, deputy Foreign Minister of the High Ecclesiarchy, as she spotted the Grand Cardinal and entered the room. Quickly, she closed the heavy wooden door behind her with a satisfying click, affording the two some measure of privacy.

‘It was a waste of time,’ Lady Gilda declared, her irritation apparent. ‘To be honest it did nothing to change my opinion regarding our correct course of action. It seems the Amestrians are simply incapable of understanding that they no longer have any leverage to use in this situation anymore, that what happens to their interests in Torontia will largely depend on my whim. Specifically, the Amestrian placed unusual faith in the belief that the Amestrian puppet government had a choice but to cooperate during the Constitutional Convetion.

Maybe after I have reduced the TPG to ashes they will finally learn that the High Ecclesiarchy isn’t to be trifled with?’

‘I take it you didn’t agree to much then, hmmm?’ asked the Ecclesiastical Secretary to Foreign Minister, lighting a cigarette.

‘The bureaucrat indicated that the Amestrian government might be willing to yield to the High Ecclesiarchy over the anti-Xirniumite legislation issue, though I tend to doubt her sincerity. She offered to continue talks tonight,’ Lady Gilda explained.

‘And will you attend?’ asked the Lady Sabelina, absentmindedly inspecting the Novan wine bottle which the Ambassador Valcus had left behind.

Lady Heather Gilda laughed cruely. ‘I think not. I’ve had quite enough of dealing with civil servants with no power to enact policy for one day,’ scoffed the Foreign Minister.

‘Remember, Heather, that the bureaucrats have very strong powers in Amestria,’ the deputy Foreign Minister reminded Lady Gilda.

‘Indeed they do. It’s a product of the intellectually bankrupt Amestrian governmental system - where the unelected Executive holds the legislature to ransom. How utterly detestable,’ the Grand Cardinal shook her head.

'Still, if the bureaucrat was serious such a reversal of position would provide a political coup for Holy Xirnium, and a boost to your chances at becoming party leader,' Lady Eleanor Sabelina mused.

'Well let us wait and see what they offer,' explained Grand Cardinal Gilda, 'and decide on our course of action from there. We can afford to wait, for every day the Amestrian government becomes further isolated. Every day their peril becomes more pronounced.'

‘You are aware that the Halberdgardian President is here?’ asked Lady Cardinal Sabelina, changing the subject.

‘Yes, in fact I was about to go and greet him right now,’ Lady High Grand Cardinal Gilda replied. With that, the two parliamentarians exited the parlour.

The bodyguard had left a few minutes ago to "check on" Liscel and Grand Cardinal Gilda, and so Kil was left to make small talk with his bodyguards. Not that he disliked it; on the contrary, he made every effort he could to get to know the men whose job it was to protect his life. He always got to know his bodyguards well: their favorite sports teams, favorite pasttimes, favorite places, and more. He'd even visited some of his bodyguards at their homes, and met their families. They were good men, and he enjoyed sitting with them here; it felt as casual as a group of male friends sitting around drinking beer before watching a football game.

However, the atmosphere was broken when Kil spotted two figures swathed in dark, thick cloaks leaving the parlor and entering the main hall. One of the women he recognized as Lady Cardinal Elanor Sabelina, the woman whom HCIA Special Agent Michael Donovan had approached at the McKagan-run Kurora Conference with regards to the establishment of Halberdgardian-Xirniumite. Kil had seen the report of Donovan's debriefing, and a dossier had been assembled on Sabelina, so Kil was familiar with her appearance. The second woman was the one whom Kil was here to see: Grand Cardinal Heather Gilda, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The bodyguards immediately resumed their aloof, quasi-hostile appearances, and stood with Kil, flanking him as he strode to the two Xirniumites.

"Grand Cardinal Gilda, Lady Cardinal Sabelina," he said, smiling and giving them each a nod, "it is a pleasure to finally meet you both." He extended his hand, as he had done so many times before. "Kenix Kil."

Seattle International Aerodrome

Extending its landing skids, the Lambda-class shuttle Sierra Golf Zero Four Four Three descended and touched down lightly on the helipad, steam hissing as the hydraulic systems opened the front ramp. Shortly thereafter, Lieutenant Schneider walked down the ramp, wearing a maroon Tannenmillian dress uniform. Behind him strode a Stormtrooper, wearing a maroon shoulderpad the same color of Lt. Schneider's uniform, indicating that he was an honor guard trooper. He didn't have a weapon in his hands, but a light carbine was slung at his hip.

They both looked around, looking for their transport.

[OOC: Xirnium, I had my people arrive at a parking lot across the street from this conference. Can you just like get them there, so I can... do something? I should have one of my characters meet the Halberdgardian president...]

[OOC, McKagan: I'm not sure what you mean, would you like me to RP your delegation arriving at the parking lot? You could assume that they've already arrived inside the former Admiralty if you like]

‘Greetings Mr Kill. On behalf of the High Ecclesiarchy and the Eternal Republic let me say that it is likewise an honour to meet you at last,’ Grand Cardinal Gilda explained graciously, inclining her head slightly towards the men in the traditional Xirniumite gesture of greeting. ‘I apologise for my lateness in greeting you, I was somewhat detained,’ the Foreign Minister explained, waving her hand dismissively.

‘I trust your trip here was uneventful? I look forward to working in cooperation with you during the Constitutional Convention, and to privately discussing matters more specific to Halberdgardian-Xirniumite relations.’

[OOC: I'm not exactly sure. You could RP getting them to where you need to be, or whatever. I'm trying to get them into the conference but i'm at a loss for exactly what to do, and i'm not having a very creative day.]

Seeing Valcus Depart in deep conversation with a Xirnimite Colonel she herself approaches an individual "Deputy Foreign Minister Cle’o de Me’rode I presume? I'm Defence Minister Izalian Jhanhus, I was wondering if I could have a moment of your time to discuss a formal establishing of Novan-Amestrican Relations?" Smiling gently her blonde hair swirling around her head as he uniform swirled inwards after the swift movements, from grand and regal, to noble and majestic she stood there small amongst Novans at 6 foot 5.

Cle'o's brown eyes widened as she gazed up at the massive women. The Deputy Minister was only five foot five and felt dwarfed by Izalian. She was still for a moment, then quickly offered the Defense Minister her hand.

"Yes," Cle'o nodded, "I am Deputy Minister Cle'o de Me'rode. Let me just say it is a pleasure to meet you Minister Jhanhus. Of course you may have a moment of my time..."

Cle'o trailed off at the appearance of an obviously furious Sara Liscel.

"Ah, Vice Minister Liscel," the rather taken aback Deputy Minister remarked. "This is Defense Minister Jhanhus, the head of the Novacom delegation..."

"I know." Liscel replied flatly. She turned to face Izalian. "Minister Jhanhus, I am registering an official complaint concerning the behavior of members of your delegation. A particular gentleman by name of Valcus interrupted a private meeting between Foreign Minister Heather Gilda and me. He then proceeded to insult me, calling me malignant, questioning my sanity, accusing me of deceit, stating that I would be better qualified to wash dishes, attacking my sexuality, my country, and implying I was ugly. He mentioned someone named Kitas, whom I believe put him up to it. I have never before been so insulted!*"

Cle'o interjected. "Vice Minister, as the senior delegate, only I have the authority to issue official complaints."

Liscel shot her a venomous glance. Cle'o quickly turned back to Izalian. "Minister, I am hereby registering an official complaint verbally concerning the behavior of your delegation. You will receive a written complaint from us within two hours and your government will receive one from our Foreign Ministry within the week."

(*OOC: Yes she is exaggerating, but Izalian would not know that.)

[OOC, McKagan: How is this? To be honest I'm suffering from a lack of inspiration today myself..]

Xirniumite soldiers quickly adopted a more wary demeanour as the, apparently McKagan, motorcade approached the grounds of the former New Order Admiralty complex - always vigiliant. Ahead and behind drove motorbikes and armoured police vehicles, the convoy designed to provide the maximum protection possible for the VIPs which waited patiently inside darkened black limousines.

After some terse words at the front entrance to the grounds, elaborate wrought iron gates swung open so that the limousines could be allowed to travel up the winding driveway to the very front of the conference centre, their wheels coming to a grinding stop on the bitumen road.

Instantly recognising the rank insignia of a McKagan colonel, the Xirniumite paramilitary guards flawlessly saluted the superior officer, and then proceeded to usher the delegation inside the building.

[OOC: Minus the fact I sent Colonel Kietz, it's ok. General Sita is still doing his thing back on the Destroyer. Thanks, so now I'm available in this RP as well.]

[OOC: Corrected. I knew it was one of the two but was too lazy to go and check.]

‘Greetings Mr Kil. On behalf of the High Ecclesiarchy and the Eternal Republic let me say that it is likewise an honour to meet you at last,’ Grand Cardinal Gilda explained graciously, inclining her head slightly towards the men in the traditional Xirniumite gesture of greeting. ‘I apologise for my lateness in greeting you, I was somewhat detained,’ the Foreign Minister explained, waving her hand dismissively.

‘I trust your trip here was uneventful? I look forward to working in cooperation with you during the Constitutional Convention, and to privately discussing matters more specific to Halberdgardian-Xirniumite relations.’

Kil nodded. "It is of little consequence, Grand Cardinal," he said, referring to her supposed lateness. "You are here now, and that is all that matters," he added, with a smile.

"Indeed, my trip was rather uneventful. Fortunately, the flight from Washington to Torontia is a rather short one. As for the matters of the Convention, I was wondering if you might wish to get these matters finalized before the Convention. If you do not mind, of course. Either way, I look forward to working with you and your colleagues."

‘Of course, that’s right,' Lady Gilda remembered. 'There is not much jet-lag difference between Seattle and Washington. Most fortunate, we had to travel across eight different time-zones.

Very well then… we should have enough time to begin discussing assorted matters pertaining to Xirniumite-Halberdgardian relations before the start of the Constitutional Convention…’ Grand Cardinal Gilda began slowly, distractedly examining her wrist watch.

‘Yes, I believe so Lady Gilda. There is plenty of time,’ interrupted the deputy Foreign Minister, obviously having already checked the time.

‘Ah, splendid,’ announced the Grand Cardinal, her lips breaking into a friendly smile. ‘Very well, Mr Kil, I’ll get right to the point.’

Lady Gilda was never usually one for small talk, and proceeded to immediately outline her political objectives to the Halberdgardian President, ‘The High Ecclesiarchy is interesting in forming an alliance with your government - to hopefully eventually encompass wide economic, political and military cooperation. We are also interested in collaborating with your administration geo-politically regarding the Torontian question, and co-ordinating our policies regarding Amestria.’ The Grand Cardinal knew that the Halberdgardians had no great love for the Amestrian government, and it was hardly a secret that relations could scarcely have been worse between the High Ecclesiarch and the Amestria even if they had been at war. A common problem always opens the possibility for cooperation, thought the Grand Cardinal sagely.

‘Hopefully, by synchronising our efforts we will be able to fulfil objectives that further the interests of both our States. But perhaps, Mr Kil, we should continue this conversation somewhere more private?’ the Grand Cardinal added, noticing Lady Sabelina look suspiciously at the Amestrian delegation on the far side of the hall.

Lady Gilda was never usually one for small talk, and proceeded to immediately outline her political objectives to the Halberdgardian President, ‘The High Ecclesiarchy is interesting in forming an alliance with your government - to hopefully eventually encompass wide economic, political and military cooperation. We are also interested in collaborating with your administration geo-politically regarding the Torontian question, and co-ordinating our policies regarding Amestria.’ The Grand Cardinal knew that the Halberdgardians had no great love for the Amestrian government, and it was hardly a secret that relations could scarcely have been worse between the High Ecclesiarch and the Amestria even if they had been at war. A common problem always opens the possibility for cooperation, thought the Grand Cardinal sagely.

‘Hopefully, by synchronising our efforts we will be able to fulfil objectives that further the interests of both our States. But perhaps, Mr Kil, we should continue this conversation somewhere more private?’ the Grand Cardinal added, noticing Lady Sabelina look suspiciously at the Amestrian delegation on the far side of the hall.

Kil was pleased. Gilda wasn't going to waste any time, and she was open to exactly what Kil wanted: a broad bilateral alliance that would connect the two nations in a variety of ways, as well as cooperation in Torontia. That will certainly open up discussion for Bremerton, Kil thought.

While Halberdgardian control of the port of Bremerton was not critical -- McKagan officials had already confirmed they would make arrangements for Halberdgardian control of other cities -- it was the city that the Department of Defense desired most. The Army Corps of Engineers, long-time veterans of Halberdgardian reconstruction campaigns, had already drawn up plans for the modernization of the older U.S. facilities on site, as well as working on improving infrastructure and the quality of life within the city itself.

Kil put the thoughts aside for the moment. I'm getting ahead of myself here, he thought.

"Yes, perhaps a private venue would be more conducive to this discussion," Kil agreed. "Might you have such a location in mind, Grand Cardinal Gilda?"

Sara's face expressed both her anger and confusion. "Wa...assaulting, I'm sorry, I don't know what you’re talking about. The good General climbed into a helicopter that was already at full capacity, and when we hit some turbulence one of the other delegates accidentally slammed into him...I believe it was a Xirniumite admiral..."

Sara straightened herself. "Minister, I will not forget this incident." She glanced at Clo'e.

The Deputy Minister looked back up at Izalian. "Minister, you shall receive the written complaint in two hours and your government shall receive one within the week..."

Liscel interjected. "As for proof, we will get a statement from Grand Cardinal Gilda, who also witnessed Mr. Valcus'es unprovoked outburst."

Clo'e continued. "As for General Kitas, one of my aides was in earshot and he heard some of the things the good General said about Vice Minister Liscel... He used phrases such as ‘pill popping bimbo, whore, and bad apple’... I wonder, is this the normal behavior to be expected from Novan officials? I sincerely hope not."

Clo'e then turned to Liscel. "Vice Minister, Brigadier General Levitt is here..."

Sara sighed. So she did not get the letter, it figures. "Well, then it is important that we talk with her. She turned to Izalian, "Excuse us Minister."

"Yes, please excuse us Minister," echoed the Deputy Minister.

Clo'e and Liscel walked over to were Levitt was sitting. Clo'e politely introduced herself, offering the General her hand. "Brigadier General Levitt, I am Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Clo'e Me'rode, and this is Vice Minister of Defense Sara Liscel. We wish to have a private conversation with you in regards to issues of mutual concern between our two States."

"In the garden," Liscel added, smiling politely.

General Levitt nodded disappointedly. So the Novans have no evidence after all... She thanked General Kitas anyway for his time. "It was nice talking to you, General."

Levitt took Me'rode's hand. "Nice to meet you, Ms. Me'rode." The general smiled politely at Me'rode, then looked at Liscel like she was a five-year-old who wouldn't understand her motives.

"Issues of mutual concern?" She's just going to deny the obvious to me. Well, given I have nothing else to do... "If there is any way I can help the State of Amestria, all you have to do is ask. We are, after all, on friendly terms." She picked up her bag, with her copy of On the Amestrians and their Lies back inside it, and got up.

"Lead the way," she said. She was eager to hear what the Amestrians would say to her, but was fairly sure it wouldn't be nice.

(Physical description of General Levitt: She is 38 years old, 5'3", somewhat stocky, muscular, and wearing a marine dress uniform. She has short reddish-brown hair, cut like that of a man. She will be wearing some decidedly inappropriate earrings for this occasion, a peace sign in one ear and a heart in the other.)

It was time, he had waited outside for around 20 minutes with his guard debating when to enter. Time was up. He opened the door and walked in.

(OOC: Can someone at least have someone greet them? I do have some interesting ideas but I'm not good at jumping in halfway.)

The trio, followed by two Foreign Ministry "aides" walked out of the old admiralty building and into the garden. It was sunny and moderately warm, however there was a chill breeze coming in from the north west. The five where soon alone in an isolated section of the grounds…

Clo'e walked on Levitt’s right side while Liscel walked on Levitt’s left. Liscel spoke, the tone of her voice cheerful, with just a touch of noticeable menace. "In all honesty I hoped you would not be here, in fact I had our Foreign Ministry arrange for your President to send you an order telling you not to come. We felt that your inexperience could disrupt the convention. However, apparently the Presidents order did not arrive on account of the communications breakdown occurring due to the MassPwnage invasion of Kahanistan."

Liscel removed a newspaper from her bag and showed it Levitt. It read Le Rapport Européen, English Addition, its headline was Kahanistanian Navy Annihilated, Kahanistanian Air Force destroyed, Kahanistan Under Siege. Lower down there was a caption, Kahanistanian Death Toll from MassPwnage Bombing Campaign Estimated in the Millions.

Liscel continued. "Of course, I am quite sure you are aware of the situation in Kahanistan and there is no need for me to tell you anything."

(OOC: Amestrians tend not to wear earrings, Sara and Clo'e do not have pierced ears, in case anyone was wondering. Also, the Le Rapport Européen is an international paper incorporated in Amestria that concentrates on events in Europe and surrounding areas.)

General Levitt was fully aware of the happenings in Kahanistan, she had received letters and e-mail from numerous friends and family members to tell her they were all right. This bitch has something else to tell me...

"Is that what you called me out here to talk about?" asked Levitt. "And I am more experienced than your Foreign Ministry seems to think. I wouldn't dream of disrupting the convention before the Torontians had the opportunity to govern themselves... It's merely a shame they all couldn't be here..."

She seemed to enjoy toying with the Amestrians.

Liscel ignored Levitt's toying response and continued. "It is very likely that your country will lose this war... Should Kahanistan be occupied Brigadier General, pray tell what would be your course of action?"

"My dear Minister," said General Levitt, smiling widely at Liscel, "I believe you grossly underestimate the fighting spirit and determination of the Kahanistanian people. Even as we speak, General Valens is devising more effective stratagems to defeat MassPwnage, and soon it is they who shall be massively pwned."

"That said, should by some sick joke of fate we be occupied, God forbid, we would create a resistance movement, I can tell you right here that I would either join a resistance or start one. We might have to import arms later, but one thing Kahanistan has plenty of is guns and ammunition. Nobody, but NOBODY, is taking over Kahanistan and getting away with it."

Liscel continued. "My dear General, I believe you have grossly overestimated the capabilities of your State and its military power. Since the outbreak of hostilities in ViZion Kahanistan has known defeat after defeat... General Valens will be fighting a defensive war against a technologically superior enemy... General, it is safest for one to operate under the assumption that Kahanistan shall lose and be occupied... You are aware that Amestria is close to Kahanistan and has a fair number of Kahanistan citizens residing within its borders, between 1.5 million and 5 million, although the number might climb higher... Amestria would be a perfect place to arrange covert resistance activities... That is, if the Amestrian State felt it was in its best interests to turn a blind eye to such activities..."

Liscel leaned close to Levitt. "You understand what I am saying."

"I get exactly what you're saying." She's going to hold aid over my head to get me to hold my mutt about her crimes against Torontia.

"And I see no reason why the Kahanistan resistance would bother to involve the Amestrian authorities. From what little I've gotten from your nation, we're not allies. And if we felt that we could not obtain supplies or otherwise operate in Amestria, we would go to Xirnium, or even Praetonia or other nations that are hostile to MassPwnage."

General Levitt raised her head to stare directly into Liscel's eyes. Many had taken one look at her and decided she wasn't to be taken seriously. But big things can come in small packages...

"And if you are trying to scare me, I've faced far scarier things in my life than you." She ran a finger across her face, where she had been scarred by grenade shrapnel. "So, I fail to see how this has anything to do with mutual interests of our nations."

Liscel looked into Levitt's eyes and smiled warmly. Suddenly her hand shot up and grabbed Levitt by the throat, slamming her against the nearby garden wall. Liscel's grip was tight, preventing Levitt from breathing.

"Look here you little bitch, you are not going to rewrite our scenario!" she hissed as her grip tightened.

Liscel then noticed out of the corner of her eye the book sticking out of Levitt's bag. The title, On the Amestrians and their Lies. As quickly as she had grabbed Levitt Liscel released her, letting her slump against the wall as she retrieved the book. Sara began pacing.

"Interesting..." Sara commented as she flipped through the book, the rage in her voice quite noticeable "On the Amestrians and their Lies, a political book by that maniac al-Ghazi... I wonder what’s in it."

Sara turned to Chapter 9: Pedophilia, Incest, and Other Perversions in the Prominent Political Families of Amestria, Part 1.

(OOC: Post some quotes from the text of the book Kahanistan.)

General Levitt stood up, rubbing her throat. She had not expected to be attacked like that. Normally, she would have slugged Liscel even if she were a good three inches taller and 25 pounds heavier, but with Me'rode and the two aides in the area... even an Imperial Marine was no match for four Amestrians.

The book contained the most vicious propaganda about the Amestrian nobility. Quotes such as, "Congenital syphilis has been put forward as a possible cause of the mental instability of many members of the Liscel family," "The rapist and pedophile Kasumi Liscel is known to have even molested her sister, Sara, from the age of fourteen," and even more unprintable half-truths and venomous lies about the Amestrians in general and the Liscel family in particular were found in the book. It also contained a shocking expose of the relationship between Sara and Kasumi, purporting to have come from an aide. That source was almost certainly faked, of course.

Well, my credibility's taken a nosedive. Her head still reeling from the shock of being attacked at a diplomatic meeting, she realized that General Kitas was right about Liscel's temperament. Now why in God's name is Nadia friends with her?

General Levitt would normally have decked the Amestrian and taken the book, but she was not only overmatched by the four Amestrians, she was also curious to see how the Amestrian would react to her choice of reading.

Liscel calmly read some of the more outrageous passages aloud. Then with a scream of utter rage she tore the cover from the book and began to rip out the pages one by one, throwing them in the air. Once she had torn out a substantial number, she kicked away the desecrated manuscript. The papers she had ripped from the book continued to flutter around her, caught in a spiral breeze...giving Liscel an almost demonic quality.

She glared hatefully at Levitt.

General Levitt was not scared of the angry Amestrian, just a little shocked when she screamed ferally in front of the aides. She probably should have warned Liscel that the book contained more strongly worded propaganda than she was likely used to, but what the hell. Well, she's going to be good and pissed off during the conference... hopefully she won't be at her diplomatic best.

Levitt looked back at Liscel. "Dammit... that book cost me 40 racist shekels...*" While she did not care so much about the book, in fact she had only gotten it because she had not paid attention to who the author was and she was looking for information to discredit the Amestrians, she felt it was a good way to build hostility. The more the apparently unstable Amestrian hated her, the more stressed she'd be at the conference.

"So... I take it you didn't like the book," said Levitt. "That's OK, I hated the political books they made me read in political science class at the Academy. But I never ripped one to pieces." She smiled sweetly. And Nadia said I was crazy... "Isn't it funny, someone who got D's in political science, is now here in a diplomatic capacity, to bring justice to Torontia..."

(*currently about $63)

Liscel spoke, her voice just audible enough for Levitt to hear. "In Xirnium you killed someone for less, Colonel Levitt... That’s right, I know everything about you."

Liscel slowly advanced on Levitt until she towered over her. "My family has done many horrible things in its long history and I am not afraid to add to them. If you say one fucking thing about genocide or war crimes at the convention, or mention anything to Nadia, then I will come down on you as hard as I can, it will not be pleasant, and you will not like what comes next... I will destroy you! You hear me you Paysan!"

That was a common misconception. While then - Colonel Levitt had been irritated by the guard at Xigrat calling her 'sir' while she was ignorant of their formalities, that alone would never have pushed her over the edge. She had been under stress because three hundred thousand lives were riding on her and she was being held up.

But General al-Ghazi's claims about Kasumi Liscel being a rapist were no different, Sara had been the initiator. Not that the general would have known, or cared. That book had clearly done more to Liscel than Levitt could have hoped to do herself.

Liscel is insane. She would do something to me that she thinks is horrible? And she knows that I'm friends with Nadia... what else does she know about me? No nead to provoke her further until the convention... then that war-criminal is going to be shown up for the maniac she is... She and al-Ghazi ought to mate, the results would be interesting...

"Well... that went well. I'll be back in the waiting room until the conference." She turned to leave, and hopefully spend more time with General Kitas. He seemed to like her and he had warned her that Liscel was crazy.

(What's a Paysan?)

Sara seized Levitt by the collar and once again slammed her against the wall. "Think it over carefully paysan, there is no evidence with which to support your allegations!"

For the first time since the introductions Clo'e spoke. "The Vice Minister is correct, you should listen to her."

Sara released Levitt and proceeded to walk back towards the admiralty building with her three companions. Levitt was left alone by the wall.

(OOC: paysan means peasant in Amestrian)

Levitt dusted herself off and left. The back of her head was bleeding from being slammed into the wall. She went to the ladies' room and stuffed some toilet paper in the wound, then went back to the corridor.

Hopefully General Kitas is still there. She wasn't afraid of Liscel, and she knew that if she could make her go crazy again, in front of the conference, that the Amestrians' goals at the conference would be through. If Liscel attended the conference doped off her ass on DHC, so much the better.

She entered the lobby, sat down next to General Kitas, and smiled knowingly. "She is crazy."

"Yeah," said General Levitt. "She smacked me into the wall, called me a... pissant... ripped up my book, and basically told me not to say anything at the convention about Amestrian war crimes." She opened her laptop.

"You were right, she is crazy. But we can use that against her at the conference. When she was ripping up the book... she was screaming... like an animal. I wish I had it on tape, that would show her who's boss."

"Yes, perhaps a private venue would be more conducive to this discussion," Kil agreed. "Might you have such a location in mind, Grand Cardinal Gilda?"

‘Yes, of course, President Kil,' Lady Gilda replied to the Halberdgardian. 'There is a small conference room just down at the end of the main lobby, off to the left of the primary conference centre, that would be appropriate for our purposes,’ Lady Gilda explained.

'If you will just… follow me…’ the Grand Cardinal began, her voice trailing off as she became distracted by a commotion on the other side of the hall.

‘Oh dear... Excuse me for one moment, Mr Kil,’ the Foreign Minister asked without taking her eyes off the situation, her voice carefully moderated. Lady Gilda stormed off in a fury towards the grouped individuals, her cloak billowing behind her. A bewildered look on her face, the deputy Foreign Minister merely smiled weakly at the Halberdgardians.

‘What on Earth is going on here?’ Grand Cardinal Gilda hissed, trying to keep the level of her voice from rising. Novan security crowded around the Amestrian delegation, ostensibly attempting to “arrest” them, while drawing quizzical looks from various delegates present.

‘"Interrogation"?! Stop this at once!’ Lady Gilda exclaimed, disbelieving what was occuring. ‘Captain Kirtsen how dare you?’ the Grand Cardinal asked. There will be an absolute political firestorm if news of this farce gets out, the Foreign Minister thought desperately.

‘Step away from the Amestrian delegation immediately,’ Grand Cardinal Gilda shouted, clearly furious that her Constitutional Convention had not even begun yet and it had already descended into chaos. ‘These people have diplomatic immunity, you have absolutely no right!’

'How dare you try to walk away from me when I am talking to you. Stop immediately!' ordered Lady Heather Gilda, infuriated that they would attempt to arrest someone at her conference. The Grand Cardinal was terrifying when enraged, and nervous Xirniumite diplomatic staff and paramilitary soldiers began to cautiously gather around the source of the commotion.

‘Novan law does not apply here! You are present as our guests, to help in peacekeeping duties, not to import your own Codes,’ Lady Gilda screamed. ‘The territories of East Torontia are currently under the Xirniumite Common Law, which affords diplomatic immunity to all foreign dignitaries. You have absolutely no authority to arrest anyone,’ the Foreign Minister yelled as she walked to stop the overzealous Novan security troops.

‘Release the Amestrians this instant, Captain, or there will be severe consequences for your government which you do not want to be responsible for,’ Lady Heather Gilda threatened, and she truly meant it. I will not let these Novans tarnish Holy Xirnium’s good name!

Overcome with fury, Lady Heather Gilda struck the Novan Captain, slapping her across the face as hard as she could. The Grand Cardinal was apoplectic with rage. Who does this mere soldier think she is! thought the Foreign Minister.

‘I am a Xirniumite Grand Cardinal,’ Lady Gilda said slowly, fighting to control her rage. ‘When I say that you are to let go of the Amestrian delegates you are to comply with my command without hesitation!’ she screamed.

Suddenly the Xirniumite paramilitary security guards were aware that the conference had become deadly serious, and readied their rifles. The soldiers glanced about nervously, they would instantly enforce any order the Foreign Minister made.

‘You are not taking custody of anyone at my conference! I will not ask you again - release them at once!'

Every Xirniumite soldier knew precisely what the Grand Cardinal meant…

‘Nor do we give notion to diplomatic immunity, Captain’, exclaimed Emperor Balor arriving at the scene of the commotion, coming to a stop next to the stressed Grand Cardinal, 'but this is not the way to act at a diplomatic convention and you are out of line.'

Behind the Emperor his two officers drew their side arms but Balor, without breaking his gaze from the Novan Captain, quickly gave a slight hand wave motion towards the ground. The Imperial officers re-holstered their weapons. There was already enough tension here and Balor didn’t want to increase the pressure. He hoped that the Xirniumites would follow suite before anything regretful happened.

‘You are representing Novacom at this meeting and how you conduct yourselves here has repercussions. You are the guests of Grand Cardinal Gilda and she has asked for your co-operation – I suggest you give it to her.’

I'm sure they will be released if they aquiesce to such a resonable request
‘The Amestrians will do no such thing,’ the Grand Cardinal declared. ‘Perhaps I was not clear enough with you, Minister Izalian, but the Xirniumite Common Law applies here, not your Novan Codes. I have heard nothing but wild accusations from you, and I do not know what, if anything, has transpired. What I do know is that your soldiers ignored my command that they were not to try to arrest anyone!’ Lady Heather Gilda exclaimed, suddenly becoming angry again. 'What you have tried to do is a complete outrage and will reflect poorly on Holy Xirnium!'

The Foreign Minister thought carefully over what to do next, but saw no other way out. The Novans had committed a most grievous violation of diplomatic protocol, at a Xirnium-hosted conference, and it would reflect badly on the Eternal Republic if they did nothing about that fact. They force my hand, to do anything less is to surrender Xirniumite sovereignty, she thought grimly, deciding that she would even shatter Holy Xirnium’s alliance with Novacom if she needed to in order to make her point.

‘Minister Izalian, at this point in time I am formally expelling you and your delegation from the Torontian Constitutional Convention.

Take your security forces and get out.’

[OOC: Last post, I will wait for everyone else to post observations]

The Grand Cardinal walked over to the Amestrians, ignoring the sprinkler systems which even now Xirniumite technicians would be cutting off. After attempting to arrest a delegation at her conference, this minor pettiness seemed trivial by comparison.

Childish fools... she thought bitterly, completely furious at the conduct of the Novans. The Grand Cardinal's cheeks were flushed from anger, she had never before been so outraged at the conduct of a foreign delegation.

'I'm so sorry for that,' Lady Heather Gilda began, utterly embarrased. Her voice seemed quite soft now that she was no longer yelling. 'Are you all okay?'

"We're all fine” a very perplexed Liscel replied in a very soft voice. "I honestly have no idea what that was about." Sara seemed very passive, almost in a state of confused shock. The water from the sprinklers had thoroughly soaked her, her wet hair clung to her head, her wet suit clung to her body, and her makeup was running. However, despite her drenched state Sara did not appear any less attractive; in fact she appeared even more luscious and sensual. Gilda could not help but notice that the top of Sara's white dress shirt had become see-through.

Clo'e, on the other hand, seemed furious, her cheeks flushed with anger. "They actually tried to kidnap us!"

Sara brushed some of the wet hair from her eyes and smiled warmly at the Grand Cardinal. "You look very pretty when you're wet, almost like the Madame du Lac*." Suddenly her surprise seemed to melt away. Sara stood up straight and then bowed to Gilda. Clo'e quickly did the same, as did the Amestrian's entourage**. “Thank you so very much!”

Aela rushed over, gun in hand. "Vice Minister, are you all right?"

Liscel stood up straight, turned to Aela, her tone once again serious. "Yes, we're alright Aela. Now put that gun away and take out the umbrella."

"Yes Vice Minister."

Aela put away her sidearm and retrieved from the massive bag she was carrying a large, colorful umbrella. The umbrella seemed alight with colors, reds, blues, greens, and oranges. Aela held it up, shielding Sara, Heather, and herself from the continuing artificial downpour. Meanwhile, one of Clo’e’s aides took out a plane black umbrella for her use.

Clo’e spoke. “Cardinal, we had best reschedule the convention by 48 hours, as this place is now completely soaked and its electronics shorted out. Either that or we find a building which would make a suitable enough substitute. In the meantime we should go someplace dry.”

“Do you have a hotel or VIP section we can stay at?” asked Liscel.

(*OOC: Madam of the Lake.)

(**OOC: In Amestria bowing to someone is a means of showing great appreciation and respect. In Amestria to be bowed to is a great honor. I'm sure Gilda is aware of this, as she most likely studied up on Amestrian diplomatic niceties in preparation for the Convention.)

General Levitt went to the corridor, unaware of what had transpired. She was hoping to talk to the Xirniumites, hopefully they were much friendlier than the Amestrian lot.

She entered as Liscel and company were under their umbrellas, drenched. "What on earth happened here?" she asked. Everyone was soaking wet. Levitt avoided making eye contact with Liscel, as it would be counter-productive to further antagonize her until the conference.

The sprinkler sprayed her, as she did not have an umbrella with her. She looked like she had taken a dip in the pool in full uniform. "Everything here is soaking wet."

Kil was drenched with water, as were his bodyguards. Kil himself was inwardly annoyed by the fact that he was sopping wet, but, remembering where he was, he showed no outward signs of it. He mouthed a question to his bodyguards, asking if their concealed SMGs would function even with the unexpected hydration. They nodded, mouthing back that the guns would survive unless totally submerged, which, despite the prolific flows of water coming from the ceiling, was unlikely to happen.

Kil and his bodyguards naturally followed the source of commotion, moving towards the small crowd until they came upon the scene. They found the two Amestrians totally drenched by the sprinkler system, now huddled under umbrellas provided by aides.

Kil dearly wished he could smirk at the Amestrians' misfortune; though they painted themselves as the innocent victims of a terrible Novan trangression, Kil figured the Novans -- regard for diplomatic immunity and foreign law (or lack thereof) aside -- wouldn't have moved on the Amestrians unless they had done something to deserve it. His innate suspicion of the Amestrians, as well as a furtive glance at the marks on the throat of Kahanistan's General Levitt, reinforced his belief of Amestrian misconduct; he intended to say as much to Grand Cardinal Gilda, when they could speak in private.

For now, though, he simply moved close to Gilda, and inquired, in as neutral a tone as he could muster, "What happened here, Grand Cardinal?"

Special MCID Agent John Spietz walked from his room, which was also the room of Colonel Kietz and Josh Ward. Spietz had been assigned to act as a information tool and appear as an assistant. He wasn't really friends with either Ward or Kietz, so he hadn't been around them long. On the trip from Kurora he'd gone through most of the songs on his MP3 Player that he hadn't listened to so much he was sick of, so music wasn't an option. So, like any good MCID Agent would do, he'd decided to go exploring.

He'd been walking down a hallway, minding his own business while discreeting praying he'd see a bar so he could pretend he was Slash again just like at the Kurora conference, when suddenly: It happened. Atlantis was found, apparently, because all of a sudden he was soaked.

"God dammit, erm... wait... i'm in the MCID.... i'm... waterproof." He thought as he brushed his sport jacket and decided it was probably best to find someone.

A few moments later he oddly saw a man that looked like the President of Halberdgardia. The man was near a group of other people. It was at this moment Spietz' perhaps smartest idea came through: "Diplomatic conference. These must be diplomats."


Spietz approached the group, probably making a startling impression since most of them had no idea who he had, if anyone did.

"Hi, McKagan Special Diplomat Spietz. Would someone mind telling me... what just happened, perhaps?"

Sara stood up straight and then bowed to Gilda. Clo'e quickly did the same, as did the Amestrian's entourage**. “Thank you so very much!”
‘I… it was nothing,’ the Grand Cardinal responded weakly, both relieved and a little surprised that the Amestrians were not incensed at her for this outrage. Lady Gilda suddenly realised that fearlessly confronting a swarm of heavily armed Novan soldiers, even striking one in fury, might seem very brave to some. The Grand Cardinal, however, had never been so insulted in her life - no Xirniumite soldier would ever dare dream of disrespecting in the slightest a member of the High Ecclesiarchy. ‘I’m just glad to see you are all fine. I’m.. I’m sorry for that, they had no right.’

The Foreign Minister quickly ran the sleave of her cloak across her face, removing her ruined makeup. Her cloak was drenched through thoroughly (making it quite heavy), and her suit underneath now clung wet to her body, causing her feel cold. Lady Gilda couldn't help but notice that the wet clothes of Sara Liscel helped to emphasise her generous curves. Despite her residual anger at the Novans, it caused her to blush.

‘And turn this bloody water off!’ she shouted, though to no one in particular.

‘Yes, Ms de Me’rode, we’ll probably need to leave here for a short time while this damned mess is sorted out,’ Lady Gilda explained, turning away to talk with her aides.

The Grand Cardinal was beside herself with rage at what the idiotic Novan diplomats had done. Not only had they committed a terrible outrage against diplomatic protocol, insulting her and the High Ecclesiarchy, but they had delivered her political enemies, the Amestrians, a veritable propaganda coup. Stupid fools! Whatever the Amestrians have done to the Kahanistanian General, and no doubt they did do something, has now been made completely irrelevant, she thought bitterly.

‘Ah, President Kil. Unfortunately it seems that the conference will need to be delayed,’ explained the Grand Cardinal, looking dismally around the flooded entrance hall. The gush of the water from the sprinklers slowed to a trickle and then stopped, evidently the technicians had disabled it from the mains.

Lady Gilda noticed a McKagan delegate ask what had happened, and decided to speak up for everyone’s benefit. ‘I’ve expelled the Novans for trying to arrest a foreign delegation at the Constitutional Convention, an utterly inexcusable outrage. In future we will be proceeding without them. For now we’ll have to arrange some type of temporary accommodation while the problem here is solved.

I am sorry for this inconvenience...’

Balor stood next to Grand Cardinal Gilda, motionless as she saw to the Amestrians. Behind him his officers fidgeted uncomfortably in the downfall of water over their already saturated uniforms. Balor still could not believe what had transpired before him – the arrogance and disrespect.
Without a word or warning, the Emperor turned and stalked off down the entrance stairs, heading away from the Admiralty complex. It took his officers a moment or two before they actually realized he was leaving, but after a quick glance around the soaking, puddle filling area, they caught sight of him and finally scurried off in pursuit, catching up at the bottom of the stairs.

General Levitt was furious. The expulsion of the Novans was going to work against her, as she had spent much of the day cultivating General Kitas as her ally against the Amestrians. She stormed over to Grand Cardinal Gilda, fuming.

Diplomatic immunity aside, the Amestrian had attacked her. While she had never any intention of charges being pressed or an arrest being made, her hopes that Liscel's attack on her would work against her were dashed. The Novans now appeared the brutes, and Liscel the innocent victim.

"Was it REALLY necessary to go that far?" General Levitt asked. "Yes, it was a serious breach of diplomatic protocol, but," she showed the Foreign Minister the scrapes and bump on her head where she had been slammed twice into the wall, "so is being slammed into a wall."

She hoped Liscel would become enraged even without Levitt specifically accusing her. That would show the Xirniumites just how unstable she was, and hopefully get her expelled from the delegation too.

Before Levitt Approached Gilda

Sara noticed Gilda blush and smiled. She then shivered. Clo'e walked to the other side of room, barking orders at her delegation in Amestrian. Sara and Aela remained with Gilda. Aela, while still holding the umbrella, had taken out a handkerchief and begun to wipe away Liscels ruined makeup.

Sara shivered a second time. "Cardinal, your subordinates are perfectly capable of handling the cleanup... I have another bottle of Chardonnay if you are interested..."


After Levitt Approached Gilda

Liscel expression remained innocent. "I really have no idea what she is talking about or what is going on... Let’s not stand here in these wet clothes any longer."

Before Levitt Approached the Amestrians

'I'm sorry, Sara,' the Foreign Minister began, carelessly using the familiar form of address. Clearly she was quite stressed out by what had happened. 'I really must change out of these wet clothes first. Some other time, perhaps.'

After Levitt Approached the Amestrians

The Xirniumite Grand Cardinal was unsympathetic towards General Levitt, especially after the stunt that she and the Novans (assuming that they had been working together on this) had pulled. Her own political plans were all at the moment compromised and the Constitutional Convention delayed.

‘Come with me,’ the Foreign Minister said tersely, grabbing the Kahanistanian Brigadier General firmly yet gently by the arm and walking off a short distance from the others so that they could talk out of earshot.

‘Your Novan friends should have thought of that before they decided to ignore my demands not to arrest the Amestrian delegates!’ Lady Gilda whispered angrily through clenched teeth at Levitt. ‘You should have come to me if you had a problem, not caused a damned international incident!’

Lady Heather Gilda’s features softened, realising that it was not General Levitt's fault. 'The Novan delegates forced my hand, you can be certain I am not at all happy about having to shatter an alliance in order to protect my political enemies. I'm even less happy at being insulted so greatly.

I'll provide paramilitary guards for you to ensure this doesn't happen again.' It was clear that the Foreign Minister refered to the political circus that had transpired, not to whatever superficial injuries the Kahanistanian might have.

"I didn't expect General Kitas to react like that," said Levitt. "He had told me before that Minister Liscel is unstable. I thought little of it until she attacked me in the garden. I expected Kitas to help me at the conference, when I was going to discredit the Amestrians."

The general's expression softened. She decided to confide in the Grand Cardinal. "I had enlisted General Kitas as an ally, I hoped Novan Intelligence had information I didn't, that the Amestrians had committed war crimes and weren't to be trusted in deciding the future of Torontia. Plus, Kitas hates Liscel. He was going to do almost anything I asked him..."

"Most of the evidence Kahanistan had was destroyed before I took over. Now, hopefully, we're still on the same side. I want to see Torontia reunified and Amestria discredited in front of the international community, and I want the world to see how crazy Liscel is." She decided not to mention the copy of On the Amestrians and their Lies, the possession of which might be expected to provoke that kind of reaction, but she had not expected Liscel to see it.

"Also, I think Liscel might have something on me, I don't know what. She said that she would 'destroy' me if I mentioned the genocide at the conference. Of course, I'm not normally that intimidated... but I don't like the sound of this."

Sara approached the Grand Cardinal. As she spoke, she smiled softly “Well then Heather, perhaps after we change from these waterlogged garments it would be possible for us share a drink? We really do need to talk...privately."

Lady Heather Gilda sighed.

‘It is good that you have chosen to confide this in me, though I would have preferred you did it before you went to the Novans and started this whole mess,’ whispered the Grand Cardinal. 'I can't understand what came over them.'

‘What the Novans have now done is to make themselves appear crazy, rather then make the Amestrian Deputy Minister look irrational. Quite frankly I’ve never seen such outrageous behaviour in all my years as a politician. It seems as if mass madness has gripped the Novan government, and I doubt this incident will be forgotten in a hurry.’

‘The problem, however, is that if you now come out strongly criticising the Amestrians, or worse, accusing them of attacking you here, you will be laughed at,’ mused the Foreign Minister. ‘No one will believe you based on an unsubstantiated allegation, not when they can paint you with the same brushstroke that they will undoubtable paint the Novans with. Your most sound political choice for now is to distance yourself from the way the Novans have acted, so as to preserve your credibility.

There will be other opportunities to strike back at the Amestrians, this was not the way to do it. How can one possibly claim the legal high ground when they violate diplomatic immunity like this? Wait until the Constitutional Convention begins before bringing up the Amestrian atrocities,’ explained the Foreign Minister, looking about the entrance hall. Already people had begun to mop up the water of the floors.

‘But anyway, what information do you believe Liscel has on you?’

Lady Gilda subtly gestured to General Levitt not to answer and to keep silent as she noticed the Amestrian delegate approach.

She turned to face Sara, her expression pleasant. ‘Yes, I suppose I could arrange for that later in the evening if I have the time,’ the Grand Cardinal said politely, checking her watch.

Sara smiled back "I'm sure you will have the time mon angle noyé*." She then visibly shivered...again. "As for our accommodations..."

(*OOC: my drowned angle)

'Vehicles will be arriving shortly to take you and the other foreign delegates to a five star New Order-era hotel, the Varda (http://english.people.com.cn/200408/11/images/rossiyax.jpg), presently,' the Foreign Minister explained, smiling warmly. The poor Amestrian's lips have turned blue from the cold, Lady Gilda noted.

'The building has been under government control of the High Ecclesiarchy since Holy Xirnium assumed custodianship over East Torontia.' It would have been so much easier to hold this conference in the Eternal Republic...

(OOC: Er. I don't know where to go, so let's assume my people are at wherever the other delegates are at and are just keeping quiet and staying somewhat hidden and away from the other delegates)

Liscel nodded. "It sounds delightful." She again shivered. Sara then turned to Levitt, a pleasant but teasing expression on her face. "Ah, General Levitt, I do hope the water has not ruined your uniform. Worst comes to worst, you could always wear that little green dress of yours... I'm sure you would look quite marvelous in it on International Television..."

Sara turned back to Gilda and gazed into her eyes, a sweet smile upon her lips. "Cardinal, I shall see you later tonight."

Sara glanced over at Levitt and her smile became rather malevolent. She spoke with a sense of finality, as if she never planned to see Levitt again. "Goodbye General."

Sara, accompanied by Aela, departed for the front entrance to wait for the transportation. As she walked away, Sara wiggled her hips playfully, just in case Heather was watching.

"Aela, il y a un livre ruiné dans le jardin, le saisissent.*"

"Oui Vice Ministre!"

(*OOC: Aela, there is a book ruined in the garden, seize it.)

‘Ah, President Kil. Unfortunately it seems that the conference will need to be delayed,’ explained the Grand Cardinal, looking dismally around the flooded entrance hall. The gush of the water from the sprinklers slowed to a trickle and then stopped, evidently the technicians had disabled it from the mains.

"No doubt," Kil said, that small smile returning to his face. It was a merely minor setback; it would take much more than that to off him. Besides, he thought, there's no need to be worry about the small things when I'll have plenty of time to be stressed when the Convention, and the political infighting between delegations, starts in earnest.

"Perhaps it would be best if we returned to our suite at the Varda and cleaned up before meeting again?" he asked, returning his focus to the situation on hand. "Also, Grand Cardinal, do you have a telephone number I might be able to use to reach you?" He gave her a tiny nod, as if to say, "We'll be in touch."

"Also, Grand Cardinal, do you have a telephone number I might be able to use to reach you?" He gave her a tiny nod, as if to say, "We'll be in touch."
‘I do.. believe so…’ the Grand Cardinal spoke slowly, searching inside the folds of her dark cloak. ‘Ah, here we are!’ exclaimed Lady Heather Gilda, handing the Halberdgardian her business card. Fortunately the card (which contained her personal contact details) was laminated so as to be water resistant.

‘I have a feeling that we will have quite a bit to talk about,’ the Foreign Minister explained.

The general had brought most of her civilian clothing with her, but it was on the base, not in her luggage that she'd taken to the convention. That little dress was tucked away in her quarters on the base, for when she went clubbing and the like off duty.

It had gotten her in trouble at her court-martial (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=448344) a few months earlier, and a diplomatic meeting was not the place to display her substantial cleavage. She was notorious for that escapade, but a diplomatic meeting where she wanted Liscel to be the one everyone thought was crazy was not the venue for it.

Luckily, her uniform was just wet, not ruined. Imperial Marine combat uniforms were water-resistant, but not dress uniforms. But now, General Levitt had bigger things on her mind than her uniform or the convention.

Goodbye, General? Is Liscel planning to kill me? She's certainly crazy enough to... but wouldn't it look suspicious if someone accused her of war crimes and then got blown up leaving the conference? Well, I'm not taking the jeep back to the base without having the Xirniumites take a look at it. Hell, just to be on the safe side, maybe I should have the Xirniumites take me back to the base, then... check my mail for bombs for the rest of my life, she thought grimly.

She had originally intended to leave with General Kitas, worried after Liscel had seen her copy of On the Amestrians and their Lies and gone positively crazy that she might try something. The general seemed to like her, but then he had to pull that boneheaded stunt and get himself kicked out of the meeting...

She sat in the waiting room, not wanting to be near Liscel, and pulled out her laptop. She would see the transports to the Varda from there, and she had several people she wanted to contact just in case she wouldn't get the chance later...

Spietz continued to watch over the conversation. He was still a bit confused from the shock he had been put through (suddenly being in Atlantis, and all), but he managed to determine that he was going to be staying here for the next few days.

"If you are pressed to have quarters at this facility, we can have an ASI-178 fly up here and we'll stay at the airport. If you do have rooms here, we'll still need to fly more luggage up here, since most of our delegation is only prepared for a few days here. So.... what are we doing?"

‘I do.. believe so…’ the Grand Cardinal spoke slowly, searching inside the folds of her dark cloak. ‘Ah, here we are!’ exclaimed Lady Heather Gilda, handing the Halberdgardian her business card. Fortunately the card (which contained her personal contact details) was laminated so as to be water resistant.

‘I have a feeling that we will have quite a bit to talk about,’ the Foreign Minister explained.

Kil pocketed the laminated card, that smile still affixed to his face. [OOC: Seeing a pattern here, people?]

"Thank you, Grand Cardinal," he said. "If you will excuse me?"

He gave Gilda a farewell nod, then nodded to his bodyguards, signaling that he was leaving. They surrounded him in the familiar box formation, and the five began to stride from the waterlogged room.

[OOC: McKagan, if you want Spietz to meet Kil now, you could have him grab Kil before he leaves.]

[OOC: Hal, how do you suggest I approach Kil? Should I have Spietz tell him he's part of a secret armed unit sent to protect McKagan interests, and just reassure him and his security that he "has his back." Or should I introduce him some other way?]

Sara turned back to Gilda and gazed into her eyes, a sweet smile upon her lips. "Cardinal, I shall see you later tonight."
‘Until then, Vice Minister,’ farewelled Lady Gilda with a warm smile. Her heartbeat raced for a brief moment as the Amestrian delegate walked away, her hips wiggling teasingly, but the Foreign Minister quickly composed herself.

‘It seems you have made a powerful enemy,’ Lady Heather Gilda whispered quietly to the Kahanistanian General, carefully assessing the situation. ‘I suggest you take extreme care. Though she may only be a bureaucrat, Liscel seems to have moderately formidable skills in political manoeuvring. You don’t need to worry about your safety, of course, since I’ll detail Inquisition Acolyte guards to guard you, but still I caution you to tread carefully. There are other, and often more profound, ways to harm someone then through merely physical means.

Do not worry though, we will both get our opportunity to deal a blow to the Amestrians.’

Noticing the McKagan operative’s question, Lady Gilda addressed the rest of those remaining in the entrance hall, her voice loud and clear. ‘Hotel Varda contains ample room of considerable comfort to quarter all delegates to the conference, including their aides and security contingents. Your allocated rooms will be ready for you when you arrive. If everyone could please proceed to outside the Admiralty, transportation will be waiting to take you there now.’

The Varda Hotel,
Sara Liscel's VIP Suite

The room was quite large, clean, well furnished, and had a magnificent view. However, despite that, the room felt unpleasant, the hotel felt ugly, and the view felt depressing... The stately wooden Xirniumite furniture, rather then complement the room, clashed with it, reinforcing how North American the hotel was. The view of Seattle was grey and drab, the typical symptoms of Totalitarian architecture. Many of the city's buildings, although they could not have been more then a few years in age, felt old and decayed. Rather then help Sara relax, the view made her feel tired. Sara was thus strongly tempted to close the curtains, however, the days remaining sunlight and the warmth it provided helped her decide to delay such action until late evening.

Upon entering the room, Sara had immediately taken off her wet clothes, hung them up above the bathroom door, and had a nice long hot shower. On a whim, Sara looked behind the showerhead. Engraved on the back of the showerhead were the words "Made in the N.O. Era in the time of our Great Leader Vader Tanakis." Sigh, thought Liscel, the ghost remains.

After exiting, the shower and leisurely drying herself off, Sara paced around the room in the nude. The warm air felt so good on her unconstrained flesh. She wandered into the bedroom. The bed was large, stately and could possibly hold more then three people. Sara jumped onto it and spread herself out. The fabric felt even better.

Sara relaxed and cracked an exultant grin. Everything was going well, sure, that scare at the convention was taxing and she had been drenched, but now knew that Heather under stress, vulnerable, and attracted to her... Heather...

At the thought, Sara ran her hands across her body and shuddered. The Grand Cardinal would be over in the evening to discuss the withdrawal of the anti-Xirniumite legislation and the convention... Sara could barely wait...

I will ensnare her, charm her, seduce her... I saw her timid glances at me, she will not stand a chance…

Liscel sat up.

And soon that peasant, Levitt, will be gone, another insignificant obstacle to our family removed. Well, its not as if I did not give her ample warning.

In the meantime, Sara decided to take a nap, it had been a tiring afternoon.

General Levitt's room, Varda Hotel

The general put down her luggage in a bare corner she had checked for bugs, bombs, etc. Uncertain as to what Amestrian Secret Service agents might have done to her room, she searched under her bed, in the toilets, in the showers, for anything. She wasn't worried about Liscel planting bugs or minicams in the shower, so much as she was worried about bombs and places a potential assassin could hide.

Fearing that one or more of the Xirniumite Acolyte guards might be covert Amestrian agents, she did not turn her back on them. True, Gilda had said she would have her protected, but it would only take one secret agent to attack her at a vulnerable moment. She made sure her .50 caliber Desert Eagle sidearm was in working order, and never let it leave her side.

She went into the shower, and noticed an inscription honoring Vader Tanakis. Tanakis... He attacked Xirnium... murdered Xirniumites in his effort to add it to his empire... he's the reason Torontia's in the state it's in... the reason the Amestrian bitch wants to kill me. She defaced the inscription with the barrel of her pistol.

That night, after her shower, she locked herself in the lavatory and slept on the cold, hard floor, her pistol in her hand. Nobody was breaking in those doors and getting to her. She had even stuffed items from her luggage under her sheets to make it look as though someone was under them, so she would be able to ambush a potential assassin.

The Foreign Minister's Private Chambers, Varda Hotel

High Lady Heather Gilda paced around her room, her hands held casually behind her back, her every move exuding utter confidence. The hem of Lady Gilda’s new, long cloak (the Grand Cardinal had changed into dry clothes as soon as she had finally arrived at the Varda Hotel) swished about with every step she took.

‘Ahh, listen to this one Heather,' began Lady Sabelina, deputy Foreign Minister of Holy Xirnium, as she pointed to the large words beneath a title that read "Get out of my conference!' says Foreign Minister". Pausing briefly, Cardinal Eleanor Sabelina read, '"Lady Gilda stops abduction attempt by Novan authorities."

Hmm, the media has been remarkably impressed with your actions, I think,’ noted Lady Sabelina as she showed the Foreign Minister the main title at the top of the Skeptic newspaper. Cardinal Sabelina butted out her cigarette and took a long sip from the ancient wine vintage that the Novan Ambassador had left behind, not wishing to see it to go to waste.

‘It’s only a tabloid, Eleanor, no one takes them seriously,’ replied the Foreign Minister as she unconcernedly waved her hand, moving to the window to gaze out on the city below. Seattle simply doesn’t feel alive, it has no character or style to it. It’s certainly nothing like Naerath, or any other Xirniumite city, thought Lady Gilda quietly, sighing as she longed for the massive spires and dark towers of the Eternal Republic (many of which would easily predate the arrival of the first European explorers from the Old World to Torontia).

‘Still, its not only the Skeptic, Heather. Most of the newspapers are printing favourable material about you, for example the Naerath Times. The newspaper editorials like the way you conducted yourself in the diplomatic crisis, the way you have preserved the Convention. They say that you acted as a great stateswoman,’ explained the deputy Foreign Minister.

A knock came at the large wooden door.

‘Enter,’ commanded the Grand Cardinal, turning with a flourish of her cloak to see who it was.

‘Your Eminence, you asked me to report back to you about the Kahanistanian delegate?’ began an Inquisition Acolyte, bowing slightly in formal greeting as he came into the suite.

‘That’s right. How is General Levitt?’ asked the Foreign Minister. After the debacle with the Novans Lady Gilda was not about to allow any other incidents.

‘She… seems guarded, my Lady.’

‘Guarded? What do you mean?’ asked Lady Gilda.

‘I believe that she does not entirely trust us. It makes our job of protecting her more difficult,’ explained the Acolyte with a shrug.

‘Your difficulties do not concern me, Acolyte. See that no harm comes to her,’ ordered the Foreign Minister. Her tone indicated that the briefing was over.

‘Of course, your Eminence,’ acknowledged the paramilitary security guard, leaving the room.

‘I’ll speak to General Levitt later on,’ explained Lady Heather Gilda to the deputy Foreign Minister, ‘we cannot blame her for not knowing of the vice-like grip that the High Ecclesiarchy has over the Armed Forces and Inquisition and that they are completely reliable to the Xirniumite people. That she is fearful when under our protection is most unfortunate, she need not be.’

Cardinals of the High Ecclesiarchy were often famous for their arrogantly reckless disregard for their personal safety, and usually travelled without large security details. The possibility that any person would ever dare attempt harm a parliamentary member of the High Ecclesiarchy was unfathomable.

‘There is also the matter of that Amestrian delegate, Ms Liscel I believe,’ began the Grand Cardinal’s aide, Abigail Ertha, who until this time had remained silent. She leafed through some notes. ‘One of her aides scheduled a meeting for around seven?’

At the mention of Amestrian, the desirable visage of Sara Liscel briefly entered Lady Gilda’s mind. She imagined her feminine curves, her slender neck, her luscious blonde hair…

Lady Gilda sighed inaudibly. It was rare that the Foreign Minister be excited by another woman, but Liscel was particularly beautiful and delicate. It is of no concern, I’ll outmanoeuvre her all the same – the Amestrian is an amateur at political intrigue.

‘Cancel the meeting, Ms Ertha, I’ve not got the time to deal with bureaucrats,’ explained the Grand Cardinal, remembering her unfinished meeting with the Halberdgardian President.

‘I want you to get in touch with Mr Kil’s entourage and see when he will be free to continue our private diplomatic talks. Inform the Amestrians that if they still want to see me then it will not be possible until after eleven.’

‘Yes, Grand Cardinal.’

Command Post Orar
Imperial Military HQ, East of Seattle

Balor entered the command bunker, his soggy clothes now replaced by the standard combat uniform of a Yallakian soldier. Despite his dress, he was instantly recognizable to the soldiers on duty and General Forge turned to greet his arrival with the traditional Imperial salute, a wicked smile on her face from the joke she had in mind. Welcome Private Balor. A sharp warning glance from Captain Daroir however, one of the officers who had also attended the conference, quickly told her that saying it out loud would not be beneficial to her career or her health.

‘My Lord,’ she exclaimed, sticking to the safer alternative, ‘I take it things did not go according to expectations.’
‘Don’t ask, General.’ Balor replied, his focus almost boring through her head. ‘It will suffice to say that I will be remaining on base until further notice.’

Surprise fell over her that was difficult to suppress. Apparently something very bad happened. It took her a few seconds to gather her thoughts away from the distraction of imagining the various scenarios which could have caused the Emperor to become so distant from his usually patient and pleasant self. Finally she coughed out the only words she could manage. ‘I will have quarters prepared for you immediately.’

‘Good,’ he said. And at that, turned and began to exit the bunker

VIP Suite, the Varda Hotel, Seattle, Torontia, 2100 Local Time

Kil's bodyguards had just finished sweeping the room for bugs and any other unpleasant surprises when Kil himself entered. His luggage had been brought up and placed on the bed. He told his bodyguards to make themselves comfortable in the adjoining suite, and they complied.

Kil locked his suite's front door, opened up his luggage, and pulled out the various parts of a suit identical to the soggy one he was still wearing. He took a hot shower and changed into the new suit; having accomplished this, he was now ready to speak, in earnest, with Grand Cardinal Gilda.

He walked to the window overlooking the vast Seattle cityscape (http://homepage.mac.com/swannman/seattle.jpg). Kil mused over his superb view of the city. Not a bad view, he conceded, though I still prefer Washington greatly to any other city. He gazed out over the land of a former belligerent state for some time, his thoughts drifting from memories of Torontia under the New Order to Algeristan to Saharistan and more. He enjoyed such nostalgic reflections every now and again, to remind himself where he had been and what he had done.

Pulling himself back into reality, Kil checked the phone number on the business card Gilda had given him, removed his secure SATPhone, and dialed the number, waiting for Gilda to pick up.

The McKagan/TLP delegation finally reached the hotel. There was a slight problem, though. The delegation had traveled to Seattle with a fairly high amount of IMA protection. When they'd stopped at the parking lot to wait for the Xirnium transport, the group of soldiers had been faced with the problem of not having anything to do. Like any good soldiers, they improvised. Several of them headed back to the border. A few, upon being notified that they wouldn't be needed anymore, begain to roam around Seattle. This, the 11th Guardian Falcon Team, was designed for urban survailance and the like.

Colonel Kietz and Josh Ward had became friends on this little mission, and had no problem sharing an area, even though it was massive and they didn't have to see each other if they didn't want to. The 2 MCID Agents checked the rooms of both the diplomats, and then of the support personnel, for bugs, and then security leaks. After declaring the area secure, they set up camp. With only two doors into the 2 adjoining rooms, it was a highly defendable position should something happen. Futhermore, Spietz had set himself up a work station in a corner. From his high performance laptop he could monitor video feeds from the micro cameras he had with him. He hadn't deployed them yet, but he planned to place them at all entrances to the floor, and at various corners.

After being informed of the Grand Cardinal’s change in schedule an aide was sent at the order of the junior delegate to speak with the Grand Cardinal in regards to the meeting. The aide acted like a waiter, spoke like a waiter, and with the exception of his business suit with ID tag, looked like a waiter.

“Ze Vice Minister has been informed of your change in ze schedule. Eleven o’clock is fine and she would like to know if you would be willing to consider having dinner with her at that time. Ze main course will be Coqau Vin, served with Chardonnay wine or brandy, depending on your preference. Ze Vice Minister zold me to inform you zhaz zis particular Chardonnay is an exclusive brand not made by ze Manor for market consumption, only special occasions or special friends. Zere will of course be a side dish of pee soup or salad, depending on which you prefer. Ze salad can be either fruit or vegetable. Ze desert shall be fresh strawberries with whipped cream and chocolate. Ze dinner will be a casual affair. Ze Vice Minister further wishes to convey she will not be ze least bit inconvenienced if you are zoo busy zo attend, but zhaz she wishes ze pleasure of your company.”

The Foreign Minister couldn’t help but giggle at the bizzare spectacle of the Amestrian junior bureaucrat, who seemed as if he may have been more comfortable serving at an exclusive restaurant then as an aide to a politician. Lady Gilda found herself torn as to what her reply should be.

On the one hand, she really had hoped to inconvenience and offend the Amestrian delegation by only offering a late hour for a diplomatic meeting, but it seemed that they were willing to play along. On the other hand, the Grand Cardinal was always in the mood for a good white wine, and the prospect of a fine evening meal to accompany it sounded intriguing.

Since her arrival in Torontia, the Foreign Minister had found the local gastronomy to be frightfully dull. Lady Gilda fondly recalled her last meal in the Eternal Republic, a dish that involved duck with walnut and pomegranate sauce. It was only a simple meal for the Grand Cardinal by the high European standards of Xirniumite cuisine that she was accustomed to, but an entire world away from what she had had to endure here in Seattle. And, of course, there will be that lovely Amestrian delegate, the Foreign Minister thought, even as she developed political schemes in her mind. Not to mention the possibility for political intrigue.

‘Very well, inform the Vice Minister that I would be delighted to attend,’ explained Lady Gilda, turning away from the aide. ‘That is all,’ she said, dismissing him without a further thought.

‘This could be our opportunity to reconcile the frigid Amestrian-Xirniumite relations substantially in our favour, Heather,’ mused Lady Sabelina thoughtfully. The deputy Foreign Minister was once again smoking a cigarette.

‘Indeed, Eleanor, it could,’ agreed the Grand Cardinal pensively.

Before they could converse on the matter more, however, the two were interrupted by the ringing of Lady Gilda’s satellite telephone.

‘I think you should probably answer that,’ remarked the deputy Foreign Minister idly, a faint smile playing on the corner of her lips.

Lady Gilda bit back a retort, contenting herself with merely rolling her eyes at the Cardinal, and walked out onto the balcony to answer it in privately.

‘Foreign Minister Heather Gilda, speaking. To whom am I talking to?’

"Kenix Kil, Grand Cardinal," Kil replied. "As you no doubt guessed, I am calling to confirm the rescheduling of our meeting. I am willing to meet whenever it is convenient for you," he added, waiting for Gilda's response.

The Foreign Minister checked her watch. 'Right now would be fine, Mr Kil,' she explained. 'There is a small conference room that would be conductive to our discussion at 87B, if this time sounds appropriate to you then I will see you there.'

"That will work excellently," Kil said. "I will see you in about five minutes, then?"

[OOC: X, you can just assume they're both in the room in your next post, so we can speed this up just a bit.]

The Foreign Minister took a small sip from a glass of water, returning it to the highly polished surface of the mahogany table. The High Lady grimaced unnoticeably at its taste. Water is so tasteless when compared with wine, especially good wine, she thought glumly. The dark, imposing table and high-backed, elegant chairs which had been brought over from Holy Xirnium contrasted starkly with the plain, almost boring room. It all served to remind the Foreign Minister how very far away they were from the Eternal Republic, from their European home.

Flanked on either side by her aides and the Parliamentray Secretary to the Foreign Ministry, Lady Heather Gilda looked across the medium-sized table at the Halberdgardian President politely.

‘Very well, it seems like we might finally be allowed to get started, hopefully without any unpleasant interruptions this time, President Kil,’ explained Grand Cardinal Gilda, smiling warmly.

‘I believe we may as well touch on what I see as the least complicated issue overall, and that is the future nature of Xirniumite-Halberdgardian relations, especially in regards to trade and diplomatic ties. What do you suggest?’

[OOC: A little weak, but it gets things going]

The Foreign Minister took a small sip from a glass of water, returning it to the highly polished surface of the mahogany table. The High Lady grimaced unnoticeably at its taste. Water is so tasteless when compared with wine, especially good wine, she thought glumly. The dark, imposing table and high-backed, elegant chairs which had been brought over from Holy Xirnium contrasted starkly with the plain, almost boring room. It all served to remind the Foreign Minister how very far away they were from the Eternal Republic, from their European home.

Flanked on either side by her aides and the Parliamentray Secretary to the Foreign Ministry, Lady Heather Gilda looked across the medium-sized table at the Halberdgardian President politely.

‘Very well, it seems like we might finally be allowed to get started, hopefully without any unpleasant interruptions this time, President Kil,’ explained Grand Cardinal Gilda, smiling warmly.

‘I believe we may as well touch on what I see as the least complicated issue overall, and that is the future nature of Xirniumite-Halberdgardian relations, especially in regards to trade and diplomatic ties. What do you suggest?’

[OOC: A little weak, but it gets things going]

[OOC: It's not weak; don't worry about it.]

"As we have both indicated in the past, I am quite open to our two nations sealing a bilateral alliance. Unless you have specific terms in mind, may I present a set of terms for your consideration?" He laid a piece of paper on the table in front of Gilda. "Feel free to make suggestions on the terms if you feel they need modification."



[Treaty of Seattle]
Alliance between Halberdgardia and Xirnium

[Article I]
Both parties agree to host dual embassies in each other's countries. Both embassies are to follow the diplomatic laws encoded by this treaty, as outlined in Article II. These embassies are to be considered national territory of the owner of the embassy, and any attack on said embassy will be considered an act of war.

[Article II]
The laws on embassies encoded by this treaty are as follows:

The amount of armed guards, including professional soldiers, are to be from zero to one-hundred men, with whatever arms thought necessary by the client nation, excluding nuclear, biological, or chemical weaponry.
Five soft-skinned combat vehicles are allowed, including armored personnel carriers and infantry fighting vehicles. A single tough-skinned vehicle is allowed, including a main battle tank.
The flag of the client nation is to fly no matter what reason, including policy towards certain political groups inside the host nation. It is national territory of the client nation, and thus they have the right to any flag.

[Article III]
Both nations are to be aligned not only with a diplomatic allegiance, including moral support, but through a treaty of non-aggression; if either party is to undertake any hostile action against the other, the alliance and all its terms are to be considered null and void. Moreover, should a third party threaten either nation, the other nation not affected by the third nation should not align itself with the third nation, even if an alliance exists between the two parties. Instead, it should be aligned with the ally specified by this treaty, or remain neutral in any conflict which may arise.

[Article IV]
Upon the ratification of this treaty, both nations agree to a full military pact. Both nations are obliged to offer some form of military aid if a scenario develops in which one of the signatories of this treaty is attacked by a third-party nation. If the party is allied to the third-party nation, Article III applies.

[Article V]
This treaty does not allow the free construction of military bases. In order to fulfill the request for a base, a separate treaty must be drawn by either party. Noncompliance with this will result in a denial of building privileges.

[Conclusions]
This treaty shall be immediately put into effect upon the confirmation of Xirnium.

"Naturally," Kil added as Gilda looked the terms over, "such standard conventions as diplomatic immunity for embassy staff are assumed to apply, though they are not explicitly codified in the treaty. However, as I previously said, we can make modifications to the treaty if you so desire."

The Grand Cardinal dragged the piece of paper closer to herself, taking out reading glasses from the dark folds of her cloak in order to examine it closely. Several quiet minutes elapsed as Lady Heather Gilda carefully and patiently scrutinised every word of the document, not rushing in the least.

‘Hmmm, we would prefer it if the phrase “sovereign national territory” replaced that of “national territory” throughout the treaty,’ murmured the Foreign Minister, still reading the manuscript. ‘It’s a semantics issue for the High Ecclesiarchy,’ the Grand Cardinal apologised as she looked up into the strangely disconcerting eyes of the Halberdgardian President. What an odd colour, she noted. 'I'm sure you will understand,' she said, shrugging.

‘Also, I believe this phrase is problematic,’ Lady Gilda explained, underlining “including moral support”. ‘Unfortunately it is a little too vague, and in any case I’m not certain that it is necessarily beneficial. For example, and this is only an extreme example to illustrate my point,’ the Foreign Minister hastily clarified, ‘some could construe a sudden change in foreign policy objectives in certain situations as a retraction of “moral support”. On the other hand I believe debate within an alliance is both healthy and useful.’

The Grand Cardinal paused for a moment, whispering in dark tones with one of her aides, who was evidently an international law expert, and then with the deputy Foreign Minister. ‘I suggest restructuring the entire offending sentence to simply read, “the diplomatic alliance defined in this treaty is also to encompass a non-aggression pact.” That should adequately clear up the problem, I believe,’ Lady Gilda explained, smiling politely.

‘This word is also a little awkward,’ explained Lady Eleanor Sabelina, leaning over to read the treaty herself. ‘Since the nature of our proposed military pact is clearly defined in the very next sentence, I do not believe there is a need to describe it as a “full” military pact in the one directly before. Merely describing it as a military pact will more then suffice, and remove any possible sources of confusion later on.’

Their objections complete, the Xirniumites once again muttered quietly amongst themselves.

‘The remainder of the treaty is acceptable to the High Ecclesiarchy,’ announced the Grand Cardinal, smiling smugly. 'Well, President Kil, what are your thoughts?'

The elevator chimed as it finally stopped at the 18th floor of the Varda Hotel, and Abigail Ertha, personal secretary of the Xirniumite Foreign Minister, gingerly stepped out. The floor of the hallway was covered with a thick, dark blue carpet that seemed quiet expensive, and it quietened her footsteps as she proceeded briskly to the suite of the Kahanistanian delegate.

‘Is this General Levitt’s room?’ asked the aide to the Acolyte security guards, who immediately came to attention as they noticed Ms Ertha coming down the corridor.

‘Yes, madam,’ replied the apparent leader, recognising the stranger as none other then Lady Gilda’s secretary herself. ‘Are there any problems?’

‘No, I’ve been asked by the Grand Cardinal to speak with her,’ replied the aide tersely, impatient to check on the Kahanistanian. ‘Could you move out of my way, please?’

‘Of course,’ replied the paramilitary guard, who quickly stepped aside.

Passing the soldiers, Ms Ertha reached the door of General Levitt’s room and knocked softly. ‘General Levitt? It’s Abigail Ertha from the Xirniumite Foreign Ministry.’

Silently, General Levitt slipped to the door, flashlight in one hand, spying for assassins. She held her Desert Eagle in the other hand, and quietly opened the door a crack, her flashlight pointing directly into the face of the person at the door. She didn't know it was the Xirniumite secretary, for all she knew it was an Amestrian assassin trying to throw her off guard, then kill her.

Gripping her weapon tightly, she spoke from around the door. "Come in, slowly, alone."

She was dressed in a loose-fitting knee-length dress, her usual bedtime attire. She appeared very nervous, afraid that the Xirniumite was not who she said she was.

The Xirniumite bureaucrat raised her hands with a smile. ‘I’m unarmed, please don’t shoot me,’ she declared wryly. They definitely don’t pay me enough to deal with this sort of nonsense, Ms Ertha thought grimly.

Slowly the Xirniumite aide stepped into the room, squinting at the light. ‘Such a gracious welcome…' the secretary noted. 'Could you at least lower the torch please, if not the gun?’

The general closed and locked the door, lowered the flashlight, and motioned with her weapon for the secretary to sit down on the bed.

"Turn out your pockets, and pull your clothes tightly against your body," she said. This was a tactic Kahanistanian police used when searching women they suspected of being suicide bombers or other terrorists and didn't want to touch them. Hopefully if her visitor were an assassin, the outline of a weapon would appear against her clothes.

She sat down on the head of the bed. "State your business." There was no emotion in her voice at all, she was merely doing what she felt she had to do to survive.

The secretary did as she was asked, mildly insulted at being treated as a threat. Turning out her pockets provided nothing but a few pens and other mundane items. ‘Satisfied? No dynamite, I'm afriad,’ she explained, still smiling. The bureaucrat’s patience was quickly wearing away, however.

Ignoring Levitt's question, Ms Ertha astutely noticed that the bed had been made to look as if it were occupied. ‘Were you expecting someone?’ the aide queried, frowning slightly at the Kahanistanian’s excentric behaviour.

Levitt got up and turned on the lights, then turned off her flashlight, not taking her eyes off Ertha. "I'm sorry if I come across as a bit fussy about security, but the fact of the matter is that Ms. Liscel wants me dead. It would be nothing to her to have a secret agent pose as a Xirniumite soldier or other personnel to get at me, so I don't let anyone close."

She sat back on the edge of the bed, directly facing Ertha and never letting go of her weapon, though it was held to the side and no longer pointed at the secretary. Not wanting to give her information if she were an Amestrian, she decided to elicit information from the Xirniumite. "What does the Xirniumite delegation know of my dealings with Ms. Liscel over the past 48 hours?"

An Amestrian would probably have a distorted view of the dynamics between the two delegates, likely having been poisoned by Liscel to think of General Levitt as the enemy. A Xirniumite would probably have a more accurate view of things. She wasn't going to tell her anything she hadn't told Gilda, and probably less. It was established that the woman in her room wasn't an assassin, but Liscel might have sent her to see how paranoid Levitt had become and possibly discredit her as psychologically unreliable.

She hoped the Xirniumite knew of Liscel's threats and attack on her.

The secretary laughed, feigning insult. ‘You think I’m an Amestrian assassin? Please… you can tell just by my wonderful sense of fashion alone that I’m definitely not from Amestria,’ joked the Xirniumite, poking fun at the High Ecclesiarchy's political enemies. With the light on, General Levitt could tell that Ms Ertha wore an expensively stylish, light-grey skirted suit with silk dress blouse and high heels. Of course, it wasn't true that the Amestrians were poorly dressed, in fact Abigail thought their taste in fine clothes to be rather good - but the aide's supercilious nature had got the better of her.

The Xirniumite secretary quickly became serious, however, at the question posed by the Kahanistanian delegate. ‘We know only that you had a private conversation with the Amestrian Vice Minister for Defence,’ remarked the aide, frowning. ‘You later alleged, privately, to have been threatened and assaulted by Ms Liscel, as well as having had some of your property destroyed. You've also expressed fears for your life.’

‘I get the feeling that you don’t feel entirely comfortable around our guards, which is disappointing. You know, if you really insist on it we can have them removed…’ suggested Abigail. ‘They were only placed here for your peace of mind, after all.’

"Yes," said General Levitt. "That much is true," she said, showing the secretary the scrapes on the back of her head, pretty much assured that the woman was a Xirniumite, but still cautious.

"It's not so much that I care about the book... it can easily be replaced. It's probably not a credible source of information anyway... I'm more worried about Ms. Liscel's stability."

"As for the guards... they can't all be Amestrian agents, can they? If it was just one guard, I'd probably feel safer with none. But with two or three, or more... they become harder to infiltrate. I won't go alone with just one guard, but I will with two or three, and I'll never turn my back on any of them."

"Also, I think that the Amestrians might try to blow up my transport out of here, or attack my vehicle with an airstrike." She seemed familiar with methods of assassination, probably because she had read about them on her computer, afraid the Amestrians would attempt something.

"As much as I'd like to, I won't be coming out until the convention. By the way, would it be possible for me to be provided with body armor, just in case?" Of course, I'll test it with my weapon first. No sense taking chances. While Liscel probably woudn't be crazy enough to shoot her at the convention or ambush her outside her quarters, one of her expendable aides certainly might.

‘I think you’re being a little silly about the whole thing, General Levitt,’ explained the Xirniumite secretary, frowning at the small scrapes at the back of the Kahanistanian's head. ‘The Amestrians are not going to kill you.’

The aide began to idly pace about the room, a little unsettled by the Kahanistanian’s irrational behaviour. ‘You are at an international convention. The suggestion that they would attempt to assassinate you, with all the media from all the world watching, merely for having a book which criticises their regime is insane. Take me, for example. My nation has been far more vocal in its denunciation of Amestria then yours, and has caused them far more damage.’

‘Am I afraid for my personal safety?’ the secretary asked. ‘Of course not. I walked alone past the wing were the Amestrian delegation was quartered without a second thought. To be honest you’re being hysterical.'

'As for the body armour... sure, why not?' Ms Ertha shrugged, rapidly becoming bored. 'Let's go now if you like, no doubt you wont want to sleep without it. We can get you a more powerful gun while we're at it, a combat knife, some grenades... err, probably not the grenades,’ Abigail added hastily, grinning.

This is serious. "It's not funny," Levitt snapped. "Liscel threatened to destroy me. Maybe she won't kill me at the convention, but she's going to plant a bomb on my transport out of here, or shoot it down and claim it was done by a rebel faction, or have a couple of experienced Italian guys in black suits sneak into the base and cut my throat. She knows that if I'm left alive, I'll expose her little coverup, and nobody will trust Amestria again. Even if she leaves me alone until the convention, she'll go after me for revenge, she seemed to have a personal hatred for me. Frankly, I don't think she likes Grand Cardinal Gilda any more than she likes me, but she can seduce her, manipulate her... if she can't, then Gilda may be in danger, too."

She calmed down a little. "Now... what, may I ask, is your advice on this situation?"

Abigail Ertha's demeanour suddenly became very grave, her tolerance had been stretched beyond its limit. ‘Be mindful of what you say, General. Lady Gilda is an extremely powerful Xirniumite parliamentarian and she would be absolutely furious if she knew you had questioned her integrity as a politician. Don’t worry about the Grand Cardinal, she is more then capable of looking after herself.’

‘The Amestrians do not have the resources to assassinate you in Torontia,’ the secretary explained, unconcernedly. Evidently the Foreign Minister's aide held the same insultingly dismissive view of the Amestrian government as Lady Gilda seemed to. ‘With what, exactly, will she shoot down your transport? How could you possibly harm Amestria badly enough to warrant your death by its Government? The Amestrian cover-up has already been exposed, and the damage done. Your own government admitted to it. It isn’t exactly as if you have any new evidence to reveal.’

‘Quite frankly I think you are being paranoid. Why don’t you come out of your room for a while and visit the bar, you’ll only drive yourself insane in here with imagined conspiracies.’

"She's the Vice Minister of Defense. She would easily be able to have an F-16 come in on my transport and shoot it down, just say it was done by a rogue officer. And Liscel certainly has a visceral hatred for me. But here... I'll come out to the bar, will you come with me? Just let me change into something comfortable for that." Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die...

Without waiting for a response, she slipped into the closet and came out a few minutes later wearing an overly tight, low-cut light gray dress that ended about 15 cm above her knee. She was going to have some fun before the Amestrians killed her. If she was to die, she was going to die sane... or at least drunk out of her mind.

"Come on," she said to the Xirniumite.

‘Very well, the Foreign Minister is busy anyway,’ the secretary explained, 'so I can spare the time. I wonder where precisely you plan on concealing your firearm while you wear that?’ Ms Ertha joked as they left the room.

Outside, the paramilitary guards stood ever vigilant. ‘General Levitt and I are going to the hotel’s main bar,’ explained Abigail to the officer simply.

‘The Foreign Minister expressly ordered us to constantly guard the Kahanistanian delegate…’ began the soldier.

‘Right, I am aware of that. Do what you have been told to do, just make sure to stay out of our way, please,’ ordered the bureaucrat.

‘Of course, madam,’ affirmed the Acolyte guard.

There was nowhere the general could secrete her weapon in that dress, it would leave an obvious outline against her body. She left it in her quarters, hoping that the Xirniumites could protect her and deal with any Amestrian infiltrators in their ranks. It was a risk she was willing to take, now that she was assured the Amestrians wouldn't jump her. It would indeed be most suspicious if she were to go missing before the conference.

"I'll be going without my weapon," she whispered to Ms. Ertha. She looked over at the guards. She had been an Imperial Marine long enough to know not to tell them how to do their jobs. If one of them was an Amestrian in disguise, the others would hopefully kill him or her before the assassin could kill General Levitt.

She let the Xirniumites lead her to the bar.

‘Scotch on the rocks,’ the Xirniumite secretary ordered at the bar. It had been quite a long and trying day, and Ms Ertha was looking forward to relaxing for a moment.

‘Do you play chess?’ asked the aide abruptly, noticing an expensive looking metal and wood staunton chess-set on one of the far tables, no doubt brought over from the Eternal Republic. Abigail’s constant defeats at the hands of the Foreign Minister had nonetheless made her exceptionally good at the game, and she often found that playing it helped to clear her mind.

‘Chess is a lot like politics,’ explained the aide as she sat down behind the dark pieces, motioning for General Levitt to take the first move. ‘It’s a delicate game of moves and counter-moves. This Amestrian delegate, Ms Liscel... you say she wants you dead. Perhaps she does and perhaps she doesn’t, in reality it doesn’t matter overly much.’

‘What does matter,’ the secretary continued, taking a small sip from her glass, ‘is that her threat was made to you with a political goal in mind. As von Clausewitz said, “war is merely an extension of policy”. Everything, ultimately comes back to politics.'

'Arming yourself to the teeth and locking yourself in your room will not solve your problem, nor make it go away,' the Xirniumite explained. 'The reason for this is that it doesn’t address the issue that you face on a political level. Just like how, in chess, when I threaten your piece it is often to make you move in a certain way, you can be sure that Ms Liscel has threatened you in order to make you move in a certain way. Her actions therefore betray her goals. If I had wanted you dead, I would not have threatened you. I would have simply killed you. She threatened you in order to make you act a certain way, perhaps even in this overly paranoid way? Why?

To beat Liscel you will need to outsmart her. How will you do that, General Levitt? What can you use against her?’ the secretary asked.

(OOC: So wise. So very, very wise.)

"Her obvious mental instability?" asked Levitt, moving her king's pawn out two squares. "The fact that there probably isn't much dirt on me that's not already out there?" True, she had been worried about Liscel coming out with something, but even outright slander would probably fall on a lot of receptive ears back in Kahanistan, where her reputation as an officer was already hanging by a thread.

"She might have wanted me to act paranoid... to make me appear crazy," and I fell right into that drug addict's trap! I'm going to get her for this... "to weaken my credibility when I accused her of genocide in front of the world."

The general took another swig of her beer. (http://www.shmaltz.com) "That doped-up psychopath has GOT to have a few skeletons in her closet that we can use..."

[OOC: I guess it must be because she hangs out with the Foreign Minister so much.]

Abigail Ertha responded to the Kahanistanian’s predictable yet sound opening by advancing her c-file pawn two squares. She had done so against Lady Gilda countless times.

‘I’m not entirely convinced that the Amestrian bureaucrat is obviously mental instable, General Levitt. In any case I would caution you not to consider yourself able to easily manipulate her even if what you say is true. Overconfidence is extremely dangerous,’ the Xirniumite secretary mused, taking a long sip from her scotch as she examined the board.

‘It’s good to hear that there isn’t anything particularly scandalous on you that Ms Liscel can exploit, but as you yourself said that simply isn’t enough. You will also need something on her. Your friend, Lieutenant Colonel Nadia Sklenova, I hear she is very… close with the Amestrian Vice Minister,’ explained the aide with almost a sneer. ‘Perhaps there is some way that you can use that to get at Ms Liscel?’

The Xirniumite impatiently tapped on the board, waiting for General Levitt to move.

"I've already talked to Nadia," she replied, moving out her f-file pawn. "She hasn't gotten back to me yet, the last I heard from her she was on a ship headed for Kraven. Besides, how did you know about her?" As far as she knew, the Xirniumites would have known the two officers had fought alongside each other, but little more.

She finished off her bottle, then ordered another. "I told her about the Amestrian killings... whether or not she believes me, is another matter. She may not want to believe her friend is involved in a cover-up. Then again..." she thought for a minute, "she might believe someone she's known for eight years over someone she's only known for three months. But one thing's for certain, she's got a hell of a lot more credibility than I do."

"What were you thinking of using? I don't see how her relationship with my friend changes anything here. Liscel's still the enemy as far as I'm concerned."

Abigail failed at hiding her irritation at what she saw as the Kahanistanian’s pointless questions. ‘We know about your friend’s relationship, General Levitt, because we know that both she and the Amestrian bureaucrat departed together from the very same Saint Fedski weapons test that Holy Xirnium attended. Apparently they had quite the cruise…’ explained the Xirniumite secretary as she drained her glass and asked for another. Ms Ertha began to play an aggressive chess strategy designed to quickly put the Kahanistanian off balance.

Frowning, the secretary continued after a while. ‘Whether or not your friend believes you is entirely irrelevant, in my opinion. That isn't your aim, or at least it shouldn't be. Quite frankly I do not see what possible political goal it might achieve,’ noted Ms Ertha, sacrificing her bishop for a superior tactical situation.

‘Tell me one thing,’ continued the aide, beginning to wonder why she was bothering, ‘why can’t you see the fact that Ms Liscel’s friendship with Lieutenant Colonel Sklenova may very well be useful to you? At the absolute least it could provide vital information on your political enemy,’ the Xirniumite suggested.

‘Oh... mate in three,’ the aide added lazily, taking Levitt’s queen. Abigail took a very long sip from her new scotch as she regarded the Kahanistanian critically over the rim of her glass.

The Grand Cardinal dragged the piece of paper closer to herself, taking out reading glasses from the dark folds of her cloak in order to examine it closely. Several quiet minutes elapsed as Lady Heather Gilda carefully and patiently scrutinised every word of the document, not rushing in the least.

‘Hmmm, we would prefer it if the phrase “sovereign national territory” replaced that of “national territory” throughout the treaty,’ murmured the Foreign Minister, still reading the manuscript. ‘It’s a semantics issue for the High Ecclesiarchy,’ the Grand Cardinal apologised as she looked up into the strangely disconcerting eyes of the Halberdgardian President. What an odd colour, she noted. 'I'm sure you will understand,' she said, shrugging.

‘Also, I believe this phrase is problematic,’ Lady Gilda explained, underlining “including moral support”. ‘Unfortunately it is a little too vague, and in any case I’m not certain that it is necessarily beneficial. For example, and this is only an extreme example to illustrate my point,’ the Foreign Minister hastily clarified, ‘some could construe a sudden change in foreign policy objectives in certain situations as a retraction of “moral support”. On the other hand I believe debate within an alliance is both healthy and useful.’

The Grand Cardinal paused for a moment, whispering in dark tones with one of her aides, who was evidently an international law expert, and then with the deputy Foreign Minister. ‘I suggest restructuring the entire offending sentence to simply read, “the diplomatic alliance defined in this treaty is also to encompass a non-aggression pact.” That should adequately clear up the problem, I believe,’ Lady Gilda explained, smiling politely.

‘This word is also a little awkward,’ explained Lady Eleanor Sabelina, leaning over to read the treaty herself. ‘Since the nature of our proposed military pact is clearly defined in the very next sentence, I do not believe there is a need to describe it as a “full” military pact in the one directly before. Merely describing it as a military pact will more then suffice, and remove any possible sources of confusion later on.’

Their objections complete, the Xirniumites once again muttered quietly amongst themselves.

‘The remainder of the treaty is acceptable to the High Ecclesiarchy,’ announced the Grand Cardinal, smiling smugly. 'Well, President Kil, what are your thoughts?'

Kil gave Gilda a warm smile, though her smugness inwardly annoyed him slightly.

"Perhaps it was time I reviewed the exact wording of these terms," Kil said, affecting an amused expression. "We have been using them for some time now, and they were adapted from the terms of alliance we signed with the Empire of the Golden Throne, [OOC: credit for the terms of alliance goes to The Macabees, who graciously allowed me to use them] if you are familiar with that nation."

Kil reached for the paper back. "If you will excuse me, Grand Cardinal?" He slid the paper back to in front of him, and removed an ornate black fountain pen with gold accents from his suit's breast pocket. Taking the cap off, he added a caret in front of "national territory," and wrote the word "sovereign" above the caret. He also struck out the passage Gilda was concerned about, and wrote in her replacement phrase. Finally, he struck out the word "full" from in front of the phrase "military pact." Sliding the paper back to Gilda, he capped the pen and replaced it in his pocket.

"I believe that will prove satisfactory?"

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table, and looked directly at Gilda with an intense stare.

"Now, on to the matter of our involvement in this good land of Torontia?" he said. "You are correct in assuming that the Halberdgardian government would like to cooperate closely with its long-time McKagan allies -- and now our new Xirniumite allies, as well -- in ensuring a bright future for the Torontian people. To this end, we feel that a Halberdgardian presence of some kind is required, and it is for this reason that I would like to inquire about the possibility of your government ceding the city of Bremerton, the city's naval facilities, and the nearby naval base, to the Democratic Imperium, such that we might be able to better serve the Torontian people.

"We chose Bremerton primarily because it is not a major metropolis such as Seattle or Olympia, but also because of its shipyards and naval facilities, which, with some modernization, would serve excellently as a resupply stop for Halberdgardian vessels, which would, in turn, bring increased security and commerce not only to Bremerton, but to Torontia as a whole.

"Rest assured," Kil added, lest Gilda think that his government was in it only for militaristic reasons, "our Army Corps of Engineers will also set to work on the civilian infrastructure of the city of Bremerton itself and bring it up to Halberdgardian standards, so as to improve the quality of life within Bremerton."

The general had lost more than half of her pieces, but was still soldiering on. "If Nadia doesn't believe me... she's not going to give me any dirt on Liscel. She'll just think that we're slinging mud at each other and she won't want any part of it."

She now found herself sacrificing rooks to stay out of mate. "Shit." She took another gulp of beer and belched like a man. "Excusez-moi," she said.

A rogue agent (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=10361274&postcount=28) watched the General from a corner. He was a Major in the Kahanistan Imperial Marines, but not the Major that General Levitt had brought with her.

The general might not see him, but the Xirniumite probably would...

Oblivious to the peril she was in, she continued. "I'm not as... political as you are. What am I supposed to be seeing?"

"We have been using them for some time now, and they were adapted from the terms of alliance we signed with the Empire of the Golden Throne, if you are familiar with that nation."

‘Really?’ asked the Foreign Minister, raising her eyebrows slightly at this fact. She glanced meaningfully at Lady Sabelina, however the ladies exchanged no verbal words. ‘We are of course familiar with the Second Empire,’ Lady Gilda finally continued slowly, ‘however I am a little surprised that they would have drafted such a legally vague treaty, especially with regards to the extremely critical Articles III and IV. The minor modifications that our delegation has proposed will go a long way to tightening up the document,’ explained the Grand Cardinal as she took a sip of water from her glass. She smiled encouragingly at President Kil.

‘Anyway, assuming of course that the corrections we have asked for are implemented in the final document then it will prove adequate for our purposes,’ explained the High Lady.

‘It will, of course, require ratification by both houses of the High Ecclesiarchy before taking effect,’ added deputy Foreign Minister Sabelina quickly, not wanting there to be any misunderstanding. ‘Most probably that should not take more then one or two weeks.’

‘We strongly hope that the signing of this treaty will mark the beginning of a long and vibrant friendship,’ stated the Foreign Minister, smiling cordially. Lady Gilda friendlily offered her hand for President Kil to shake.

As the Halberdgardian leaned forward on the table, Lady Heather Gilda found herself vaguely irritated by President Kil’s somewhat direct and uncouth mannerisms, though she concealed any sign of distaste.

‘This new proposal that you suggest, however, is much more problematic Mr Kil,’ elucidated the Foreign Minister. ‘As you are no doubt aware, the Eternal Republic is temporarily occupying East Torontia jointly with the Infinite Empire. The entry of any troops from additional nations into the occupied territories would therefore require their consent as well - consent that I suspect they would be reluctant to give. I should also explain that, after the recent debacle with Novacom (and their expulsion both from this conference and from the East Torontian territories), the High Ecclesiarchy is extremely wary about allowing additional governments to station troops here. We are worried about disrupting the delicate political balance already in place here.’

‘There is also the fact that I do not necessarily believe that what you propose would be beneficial for Torontia,’ continued the Foreign Minister frankly. ‘Holy Xirnium is merely custodian of East Torontia, not its proprietor, and it is highly debatable whether we have the authority at all to cede sovereign Torontian territory to foreign governments. Legally, such a decision should only ever be made by the Torontian Government, which we expect will be operational in barely a year’s time. Also, I’m not convinced that increasing foreign troop numbers in Torontia will be helpful at this moment in time. Torontia no longer has any security problems, and there are more effective ways of stimulating its economy. The High Ecclesiarchy would, in fact, rather see a substantial decrease in occupational troops in Torontia in anticipation of the inevitable Torontian self-rule, not an escalation of commitment. Torontia's past experience with regards to occupation has not been encouraging.’

Foreign Minister Heather Gilda smiled and once again looked into the President’s eerily peculiar eyes. ‘I trust that this need not develop into a source of contention between the Eternal Republic and the Democratic Imperium?’

Abigail Ertha narrowed her lovely eyes in annoyance at the Kahanistanian’s repulsive belching. How terribly uncivilised, she thought.

‘Your friend,’ the Xirniumite aide repeated, sneering, ‘will not believe you, hmm? Isn't that wonderful... it looks like your situation continues to go from stength to strength.’

‘Check and mate, General Levitt,’ the secretary proclaimed, executing what she personally thought was a brilliant victory involving two knights and one bishop. The Kahanistanian was not bad at chess by any means, but she was certainly far less skilled then Lady Gilda, whom she usually challenged.

‘If you will excuse me now I must unfortunately be getting back to the Foreign Minister. It was a pleasure to have met you, General Levitt,’ explained Ms Ertha, but without any real warmth or friendliness. Leaving her empty glass on the table she began to walk calmly out of the bar.

‘There is a Kahanistanian officer standing back over there who is not a party to this conference and should not be here,’ the Xirniumite whispered to several Acolyte guards while pausing at the doorway. ‘I’ve no idea who he is or how he could possibly have breached the security at this hotel, just arrest him quietly and get him out of here.’

‘Yes, madam.’

General Levitt nodded and finished off her beer. She could not believe that she had been trashed this easily, she had been playing off and on for half her life, nearly 20 years.

She left the bar feeling a bit relieved. If she had known what could have happened, she would never go outside again without a TAR-21, plenty of ammunition, and captured Kraven armor, no matter how uncomfortable it was on her frame.

Meanwhile, a suspicious Kahanistanian Major was running away from the Xirniumite guards who were trying to arrest him...

EVAN HO was one of those arrogant bastards that were efficient at their occupations that they can keep it. The Upper and Lower Parliamentarian Houses had to nominate him for ambassadorship to the Allied States of The Lone Alliance because he was the most competent, and despite the fact the other four candidates had much better behavioral conduct than Ho’s blunt-to-the-point, arrogant, hot-tempered and narcissistic-like nature, they just were not as competent for ambassadorship.

Prime Minister Neo was one of those people (along with the most of the cabinet) that disliked Ho, and when Neo heard the news that the Parliament approved him for ambassadorship, let’s just say that he wasn’t too content with dealing with him. The Union’s founder couldn’t believe that he sent him to the Democratic Imperium of McKagan to try and sort out Torontia’s future…not that he couldn’t do much anyway, as the Saint Fedskians and Amestrians whom greatly distrusted each other thanks to their feud over Torontia had wrecked the Kurora conference.

Fortunately for the Torontians whom were sick of war and wanted peace, as fate would have had it and some manipulative force behind-the-scenes, the Amestrians withdrew (mostly anyway) back home thanks the the ViZionarian Civil War, now more like an international conflict thanks to foreign states such as the Holy Empire of Doomingsland backing the Presidential Forces and Woodstock Pact/Questerian Commonwealth member-states like the Democratic Imperium of Praetonia assisting the ViZionarian Congress. And with the Saint Fedskians still angered at the State of Amestria for their attack and what they perceived to be using the military of the Infinite Empire of Yallak, withdrew their military and let the Eternal Republic, jointly with the Infinite Empire run the Interim Torontian Government.

Ho was invited by the High Ecclesiarchy to the second conference, which he (along with his homeland’s government) hoped would prove to bear good fruit. Around the time in which banter had occurred with the Novans and Amestrians, his PX-801 transport had arrived at the airport in Seattle, which had been rebuilt in time for the conference. The hotel he stayed at was not too far away from the conference location, or too far away a drive.

The flight from the capitol was long and tiring, Ho, his bodyguards and his colleagues sluggishly took up their own card-keys from the Torontian secretaries at the ground floor, they and with the conference occurring in forty-eight hours, Ho had some time to kill. Being an athletic individual, as reflected in his tanned skin and body structure, which whispered of swimming and foot-balling.

After he unpacked his bag and neatly organized his clothing in the hotel provided furniture, he took out a black-spotted, mostly white colored football and kicked it around the place


Ah, he thought, it’s good to take out your anger on a ball….

He gave it a good hard kick. The football rocketed toward an expensive, Xirniumite-made glass lamp, resting on the surface of a table beside of the expensive, well-crafted bed. It fell onto the floor and cracked.

Ah shit.

-snip-

"Yes, naturally, I too must present this treaty to the Senate for confirmation, but there is little reason for them to oppose it, so I do not anticipate any difficulties there."

Upon hearing Gilda's polite but firm rejection of the Bremerton issue, Kil kept the smile on his face, but was inwardly slightly disappointed. I should have figured they would have never agreed to such a thing, he thought. Perhaps we will have to take General Sita up on his offer after all...

"I understand your concerns, Grand Cardinal," he said, slowly leaning back into his chair to return to his normal sitting posture, "and I promise that if the Ecclesiarchy and the new Torontian government do not wish us to have control of Bremerton, we will not unduly push the issue. Regardless, the possibility of monetary aid or engineers to aid in the reconstruction of Torontia still stands.

"Well," Kil said, with a small smile of satisfaction, "do we have any other issues we need to discuss, Grand Cardinal, or shall we part for the night?"

With all the other delegations off doing various things together, it left Colonel Kietz, Josh Ward, Agent Spietz, and a few IMA Security Personnel sitting amongst a collection of Four interjoined suites to try and find something to do for the next few days. Of the 8 Overt Soldiers with them, four had gone to sleep, and four more were talking near a large window in the far south suite. Josh Ward and the Colonel were discussing politics in the center of the two middle rooms, and Agent Spietz was alone on the North side of the complex.

I should probably use some of the new gadgets they've given me, he thought to himself while sipping on some sort of citrus flavored drink he'd taken from the minibar.

Yup, they'll definately be pissed if I pass up a good chance to use this stuff. He removed a metal box, about 1 foot by 6 inches from his pack. It was thick, and needed a special identification device (much like the QuickPay system used at modern gas stations) to open. After taking about five minutes to remember how to use the key, he opened it. Inside was a small, egg shaped object. Tucked in the corner inside a plastic box was the small sensors he was supposed to deploy a while ago. In the opposite corner was a small box of the same size. He removed it. Opening it, he studied what was inside. Three small prisim shaped boxes, each with a fan inside of it. He snapped them onto the oval. With one on each side and another wrapping around the vertical of it, this gave the innocent looking oval the ability to fly.

What was this odd looking device? The Fly. Designed to look like a bird (without paying much attention to it,) it made the perfect unit for domestic survailance inside foreign nations. It could hover in a position, and stay in the air for 4 hours at a time. With it's camera, it made an interesting tool for low-scale detection of where people were.

Maybe I can find that one woman doing something.... she is such a lesbian..., he thought as he excitedly placed the unit on the low coffee table in front of him, clearing a space between the empty bottles. He gave the controls power, and the Fly rose to a point at about the level of his face. He then powered it forward... and it rammed the closed window, cracking the glass and giving the camera view in the corner of his laptop computer an odd angle. He opted not to repair it, but merely sat it down on the counter while he tried to find a way to open the window.

After searching around the base and side of the window (that stretched from the floor to the ceiling,) it wasn't obvious to him that there was a latch at chest-level on the right side of the appliance, but it didn't matter; for he had found the alternative...

About 10 seconds later, Agent Spietz of the McKagan Central Intelligence Division stood about 2 yards from the window. In his right hand, a half empty beer bottle. In the other hand, the controls to The Fly. He pulled his arm back, and did his best Brett Favre impression. The bottle, going end over end, slammed into the window. Partially exploding, the bottle continued through, opening up a hole large enough for the Fly. What he didn't consider, however, was that the bottle wouldn't land inside the room; for it continued falling towards earth. Several moments later it would impact, exploding on something. Perhaps it would impact various windows on the way down?

All Spietz cared about was the fact that his toy was now flying circles around a hotel in the middle of Seattle. Looking into each room, he'd find something interesting one way or another.

‘I am glad that you can see things from our point of view, President Kil,’ explained the Grand Cardinal smoothly, a gracious smile spreading across her lips as she took yet another sip from her now almost emptied glass. ‘Of course, there is no reason why our respective governments wouldn’t be able to negotiate some later arrangement regarding the provision of monetary and reconstruction aide to East Torontia,’ the Foreign Minister continued, looking at the Halberdgardian President curiously. 'I find Halberdgardia's intense concern for the welfare of the Torontian citizens to be most comendable.'

Lady Gilda was once again struck by Mr Kil’s scruffy look, his dishevelled hair and unshaven face seemingly out of place for a man of such high office. He did take the rejection of the Bremerton issue fairly well though… the Grand Cardinal mused.

Their business complete, the Xirniumites decided to wrap things up for the night. Rising to her feet, the High Lady extended her hand courteously for the Halberdgardian President to shake. ‘Thank you, Mr Kil, I feel it has been a most productive night,’ Lady Heather Gilda opined, beaming warmly. ‘Hopefully this treaty will mark merely the start of a long and fruitful relationship. I'm supremely confident that such will be the case. Goodnight.’

With that the Foreign Minister and her entourage quickly left the conference room, returning to their suits.

Lady High Grand Cardinal Heather Gilda's Chambers

‘I think that went very well,’ announced Lady Sabelina, reflecting on the meeting with the Halberdgardian delegation. Her diplomatic duties for the night concluded, the deputy Foreign Minister had discarded her formal cloak in one of the corners of the room and now was once again working on her ongoing foreign policy draft, a cigarette in hand.

‘Yes, I think so as well,’ nodded Lady Gilda after some careful thought. ‘Though perhaps they took our rejection of their Bremerton suggestion a little too well?’

The deputy Foreign Minister shrugged. ‘Maybe they have another arrangement in mind that adequately fulfils their primary political objectives?’

‘Certainly that is a probable explanation, Eleanor,’ the Grand Cardinal replied, smiling distantly. ‘But as to what precisely that alternative arrangement may be, we have yet to discover.’

Cardinal Eleanor Sabelina watched silently as the Foreign Minister carefully preened herself in front of a full length mirror. The Foreign Minister had forgone her usual grey, skirted business suit for an elegant, long satin gown, a conscious decision to mark the coming dinners’ casual but also official nature. ‘So has Cabinet given you any clear directives for this meeting with the Amestrian bureaucrat that you are going to?’ the deputy Foreign Minister asked finally.

‘They have, in fact,’ explained the Grand Cardinal, a look of annoyance crossing her face as she remembered their decision. ‘I'm to completely normalise relations between Amestria and Xirnium in anticipation of further political objectives. How extremely frustrating... after all this effort expended at damaging Amestrian interests I’m now expected to mend relations.’

‘But you agree that improved relations with Amestria will likely benefit several of our long term goals?’ asked the Cardinal sceptically.

‘Oh yes, I agree, in fact I was one of the primary proponents of the policy shift. It’s a sound political decision, one which I agree with completely, the problem is that it will be a difficult one to execute,’ Lady Gilda clarified. 'There is a lot of mistrust that I will have to clear.'

‘I don’t doubt your abilities, Heather, and neither does the High Ecclesiarchy,’ explained Lady Sabelina.

‘Hmpff,’ Heather Gilda snorted in disgust. ‘I suppose, at least, that my eventual success will further increase my standing in the High Ecclesiarchy and bring me inexorably closer to the Chief Ministership.’

‘Good luck, Heather,’ said Lady Sabelina, smiling encouragingly.

****

As Grand Cardinal Heather Gilda neared the Amestrian suites she noticed the Vice Minister’s personal aide waiting at the entrance. What was her name again? Lady Gilda wondered, searching her memory. Ahh, of course. Aela.

‘Good evening, Ms Bouquet,’ the Foreign Minister greeted the Amestrian secretary friendlily.

“Good evening Grand Cardinal,” Aela politely replied. Aela then took out a key and opened the door to Liscel’s room.

“Vice Minister!” Aela called, “Cardinal Gilda has arrived.”

Sara’s voice sounded relaxed and musical. “Be there in just a minute.”

Aela stood aside for the Cardinal to enter. “The Vice Minister will be with you in a moment.”

After Gilda entered Aela closed the door behind her. Gilda stood in the living room, a faint smell of delicious food in the air.

Lady Heather Gilda stood waiting in the living room, a little impatient to get on with the meeting. The smell of the food seemed very enticing, and somewhat reminded the Foreign Minister of the delectable Xirniumite cuisine that she was accustomed to.

Where is this Amestrian bureaucrat? the Grand Cardinal thought idly, resisting the temptation to check her jewelled bracelet watch.

Sara entered the living room. She was wearing an oversized buttoned down short sleeve white dress shirt and a pair of loose cream colored pants, which although loose, still managed to showoff her voluptuous hips. Sara had on light evening makeup and was barefoot. She had a cheerful yet subdued smile upon her face.

“I’m sorry that I made you wait...”

She walked up to the Cardinal, her hands held behind her back. Before Heather could react Sara threw her arms around her and hugged her tightly.

“I just want to thank you again for saving me earlier…” said Sara softly as she laid her head on Heather’s shoulder. Sara was wearing the pleasant floral perfume from earlier. Her soft warm body pushed up against Heather…

The Grand Cardinal was certainly stunned by this improper breach of diplomatic protocol, and stood speechless for a moment. Incensing her slightly, the Amestrian Vice Minister’s intimacy also caused Lady Gilda’s heart to pound with excitement. A thrill of exhilaration travelled through the Foreign Minister as Ms Liscel squeezed her feminine body against the Grand Cardinal, hugging her tightly. With Ms Liscel’s head resting on her shoulder, the Foreign Minister felt the Amestrian’s lovely, soft hair against her face.

‘Err, don’t mention it, my dear,’ Lady Heather Gilda managed to quietly reply at last, gently nudging Sara away. ‘The welfare of every foreign delegate at this conference is my responsibility,’ she explained offhandedly.

‘Oh, I’ve a gift for you,’ Lady Gilda explained quickly, eager to break the brief, awkward silence that had developed. ‘Well, not so much for you as for your government, of which you are both a member and a representative of,’ the Foreign Minister hastily added, blushing furiously.

The High Lady handed Sara Liscel an expensive, leather bound book. Elaborate gold lettering on the tome described it as being an Introduction to the Study of the Law of the Constitution, by none other then the famous English 19th century jurist, AV Dicey.

‘Consider it a symbolic indication of the High Ecclesiarchy’s wish to improve relations with the Amestrian State,’ explained Lady Heather Gilda. ‘In our opinion, much of the previous mistrust and hostility between our two governments has been the result of misunderstanding and confusion, of a fundamental misconstruction of each other’s political ideologies. We wish to end this, to begin constructive dialogue and communication. Most importantly, we wish to create understanding.’

‘Of course, one cannot understand Holy Xirnium’s political system unless one understands parliamentary supremacy,’ continued Lady Gilda more confidently, assuming a didactic tone. ‘Though not a Xirniumite, and though his ideas have been highly modified and supplemented with others since, Dicey had a profound effect on that area of political theory. I hope you like it.’

The Foreign Minister smiled warmly.

Sara chuckled and smiled in good humor at Heather's embarrassment. She nodded silently at the Cardinals monologue and took the book. "I accept it with honor."

Sara then tilted her head to one side and glanced up and down Heather's satin dress. "You did not have to be so formal..." she remarked with a teasing smile.

Sara spun around and began to glide towards the dining room, the book under her arm, her hips swaying gently. "Shall we to the dining room Heather..."

She again spun around. "I can call you Heather can't I...?" she asked with another teasing smile.

She again spun around. "I can call you Heather can't I...?" she asked with another teasing smile.
‘Only in private,’ Lady Gilda explained distractedly to the Amestrian delegate, seemingly lost in her thoughts and slightly irritated at Ms Liscel’s cavalier response to her remarks on Amestrian-Xirniumite reconciliation. The Amestrian takes far too many liberties with me. ‘Do not ever address me in the familiar form when there are others around,’ she commanded gravely.

The Foreign Minister’s serious expression quickly softened, however, and she smiled pleasantly at the lovely Amestrian Vice Minister. ‘I see that you’re one for comfort, Sara,’ Lady Heather Gilda noted, the familiar form of address seemingly awkward. ‘I, on the other hand, prefer some manner of style,’ she mocked cruelly, though her warm smile told Liscel that she was only joking.

Following the Amestrian into the dinning room, Heather Gilda merely waited expectantly.

‘Do not ever address me in the familiar form when there are others around,’ she commanded gravely.

“I understand the demands of professionalism, so don’t worry.” Sara replied with a reassuring smile. She then took a moment to admire Heather’s lovely dress and how it brought out the Cardinal’s beautiful figure.

“You look very stunning in that dress, like a angle tombé*, you do indeed have style…” Sara complemented as she led Heather into the dining room…

Following the Amestrian into the dinning room, Heather Gilda merely waited expectantly.

Sara closed the door behind them and placed the Introduction to the Study of the Law of the Constitution upon a nearby pedestal. Don't want it to become soiled with crumbs and grease.

The dining room was dimly illuminated by candle light and there was an overwhelming smell of delicious food. The dining room table was filled to capacity. Upon the table stood a massive chicken, two covered platters, two trays of what appeared to be appetizers**, and two rotating heated electronic plates each with a wedge of melted Raclette cheese. It all looked so good. Besides the table stood a small stainless steel bucket filled to the brim with ice, its purpose unclear.

“Have a seat” said Sara as she motioned to a one of the chairs. As Heather seated herself Sara reached her hand into the steel bucket, shivered momentarily at its icy chill, and removed a Chardonnay wine bottle from its confines. Sara unscrewed the cap and poured some into Heather’s glass. “It’s called Acclamation D'Hiver, or Winter Cheer… It is a special wine produced for hundreds of years by my family for the celebration of the Winter Solstice…***”

As Sara filled her glass Heather noticed next to her plate what appeared to be pages torn from a book… One of the torn pages used to be from a cover, it read On the Amestrians and their Lies…****

“Oh that,” Sara explained. “I thought you might want to have a look at those. They are pages from a book that General Levitt was showing to the other delegates… Reading them before dinner might spoil your appetite, but that is preferable to spoiling one's digestion.”

(OOC: *fallen angle)

(OOC: **Gherkions [little pickles], boiled potatoes, Small pearl onions, thin slices of ham, and thin slices of cold roast beef.)

(OOC: ***Acclamation D'Hiver will be the best white wine Gilda has tasted. It is as delicious as is possible and is ice cold… It is however very dry.)

(OOC: ****These are some of the most vitriolic pages on the Liscel family from the book, accusing Kasumi of child rape and the whole family of degeneracy…)

The Grand Cardinal blushed again, this time at the Amestrian Vice Minister's flattering remarks on her gown. ‘Thankyou very much, Sara,’ she replied softly, smiling.

The Foreign Minister reluctantly tore herself away from the excellent food and superb wine (quite possibly the best chardonnay that Lady Gilda had ever sampled, and she had sampled scores of the most wonderful vintages from throughout the world) so as to examine the torn pages. Paedophilia, Incest, and Other Perversions in the Prominent Political Families of Amestria, she read, donning her reading glasses to quickly scan the page. Ahh, by the fascist Kahanistanian Presidential candidate, al-Ghazi... of course, Lady Gilda thought to herself.

The pages described, in excessive depth, a long list of sordid details about the Liscel family. Some may have had a sliver of truth to them, the others were undoubtedly outright fabrications.

‘Aww, thin-skinned, are we?’ crooned Lady Heather Gilda, a mocking smile spreading across her lovely lips. ‘Do you mean to tell me that, with a past such as yours, you are still hurt by baseless slander such as this? Forgive me, but I see nothing particularly new in here that I’ve not heard whispered about you before – why exactly have you chosen to show me this?’

The Grand Cardinal smiled politely and drank deeply from her glass. What a magnificent wine...

Sara refilled Heather's glass, her face taking on an expression of hurt. "Tell me Cardinal, if someone were arrive at a diplomatic conference and begin passing out such rubbish that not only attacked you, but your family, your history, and the person you loved dearly, how would you feel? How would you react? I doubt you would sit there with a smile on your face while some common murder flung filth upon you from the sewers."

The Grand Cardinal shrugged her delicate shoulders as she took another sip from the glass. ‘My dear, you will find that ad hominem attacks and smear campaigns are uncommon in the Eternal Republic. Fallacious arguments are generally not receive well in Holy Xirnium, by neither the High Ecclesiarchy nor the electorate. I would like to think that such uncivilised behaviour is beneath us as politicians,’ Lady Heather Gilda explained, her mocking expression softening slightly as she noticed Ms Liscel’s hurt, whether feigned or otherwise.

‘So let me repeat my question, Sara, why have you shown me these pages? Are you perhaps looking for sympathy from me?’ the Foreign Minister asked, taking care to refrain from sneering.

'As for al-Ghazi being a murderer, that is a very serious allegation. I assume you have some proof to support such a claim?'

Sara looked at Heather with an expression of mock surprise. "Al-Ghazi a murder...no I was referring to Levitt... Are you telling me you do not know...?"

The Foreign Minister suddenly froze, abruptly returning her fork to its plate with a dull clink, her food forgotten. She remained silent for a few brief moments, though all the while her mind raced.

'Explain what you mean, Ms Liscel,' Lady Gilda ordered slowly.

Yes, that little peasant will pay dearly for defying me. Sara retained her expression of mock surprise. "I'm surprised as the event happened in your country... General, then Colonel Rachel Levitt, was attempting to pass her detachment through Xirnium's borders. This was during the time of that god-emperor Quikzos IV and his attempts to save the souls of his people by blowing them up with nuclear bombs...honestly how did your country fall under the control of that maniac. Anyway, one of your State's border guards called her Sir and she blew his brains out, then she led her detachment into Xirnium, resulting in what I believe was called the battle of Xigrat..."

Sara gave the Cardinal a puzzled look. "You really did not know... I suppose you are also unaware that the Kahanistanian goverment ordered her not to attend the Convention but the orders failed to arrive due to the current condition of siege Kahanistan finds itself under... She is not an official delegate, she does not represent her government or serve it in a diplomatic fashion, and is here solely on her own authority..."

You really did not know...
‘Do not presume to tell me what I do or do not know!’ the Grand Cardinal snapped angrily, though she soon caught herself and just as quickly returned her expression to one of pleasantness.

‘I am sorry, Sara,’ the Foreign Minister said, smiling sweetly. Lady Heather Gilda emptied her wineglass and refiled it, taking another long sip. It was obvious that she was stalling for time while she thought feverishly. ‘If the Amestrian authorities possess any information at all on the death of Second Lieutenant George Tate then you can be certain that the law enforcement agencies of the Eternal Republic are interested in it.’

Something about the manner in which the Grand Cardinal spoke told Ms Liscel that Lady Gilda knew vastly more then she let on.

‘I am sorry, Sara,’ the Foreign Minister said, smiling sweetly.

I have planted the seeds, nothing more need be said. Sara returned the smile “It's quite alright…perhaps I should not have brought it up.” She then took the torn pages of al-Ghazi's book from the table and deposited them in a table side waste basket. She then picked up a Gherkion, dibbed it in cheese, and popped it into her mouth. After she had finished chewing she continued.

"I really hope you are enjoying the food, it is not up to the level of the normal Bourgeoisie café, but it is the best that could be done given the tyranny of distance and limited facilities. Torontia has some of the worst cuisine in the world, Vader Tanakis may have looted hundreds of billions during his reign, but he ate slop not fit for a pig and thought it was the best there was... I'm also sorry that this meal could not be served in courses, as is appropriate, given the private nature of our being together and this room not being suited for the traffic of waiters..."

Sara noticed the Cardinal was on her fourth glass of Winter Cheer. "You really seem to be enjoying the Winter Cheer, do wish to hear the history of this renowned and elusive vintage?"

Even this can be made to serve the High Ecclesiarchy's purposes... the Grand Cardinal thought.

Lady Heather Gilda emited an exasperated sigh, suppressing her irritation at the Amestrian delegate’s penchant for changing subjects rapidly. She returned to the food, beginning to eat some of the cold beef appetisers.

‘The food is fine,’ the Foreign Minister replied to Sara's question, ‘and the wine, I must say, is quite excellent.’

‘Let us speak plainly, Sara,’ the Grand Cardinal continued after a while, smiling enigmatically as she once again refiled her own wineglass. ‘You want Holy Xirnium to eliminate your political enemy, General Levitt. Truth be told, it certainly would not be unwelcome to see her charged and prosecuted for her crimes prior to the Xirnium-Kraven War – if only to show the inviolable sovereignty of the Eternal Republic. One does not violate our laws without consequence.'

'Your own petty squabbles with the Kahanistanian soldier are, of course, irrelevant to me and to the High Ecclesiarchy,’ the Grand Cardinal added frankly. 'At the end of the day, however, the Kahanistanian may not be a political enemy of the High Ecclesiarchy, but the Department of Public Prosecutions would certainly love to get their hands on her. It seems, therefore, that our interests may be aligned.'

Sampling some of the ham slices, Lady Gilda continued. ‘However, without evidence there is not terribly much we can do. So if you know something about the events surrounding the man's death then I suggest you speak up. If not, then do not waste my time on your tangential pursuits.’

“I do not want to you ‘eliminate’ my ‘political enemy’,” Sara remarked with an intentionally cynical smile that subtly conveyed the exact opposite of what she had said. “However, the Amestrian delegation would appreciate it if this disruptive individual could be removed from any further participation in the Convention. Levitt is not serving the Kahanistanian State in any official diplomatic capacity, has no diplomatic decision making power, and no diplomatic immunity…” Sara stressed the last point. “I can provide you with Amestrian/Kahanistanian communications that establish as such. Levitt has no knowledge of Constitutionalism and is here solely to carry out her own private agenda. There is no reason for her to be at this Convention, true she commands the Military Assistance Command, but it is a purely military unit with only 6,000 soldiers. If we allow Levitt to come in and start making a scene we might as well allow the leadership of Western Torontian Association for a Stronger Public Transportation System to come to the Convention as well… The Association had about 12,000 members in the Port Angele’s area alone last they submitted their membership list to the Department of Public Security.”

Sara gave Heather a warm but suggestive smile. “It would be considered by us a clear sign of friendship and understanding if that undereducated logistics officer were to be sent away so she could not carry out her troublemaking agenda. The Convention should be focused on drafting a constitution for Torontia that will secure liberal democracy and insure peace prosperity and good government. How that logistics officer and her books of slander written by some fascist former General would contribute positively to this undertaking in beyond me."

Sara then shrugged. “What legal action your Department of Public Prosecutions takes up against Ms Levitt is none of my concern… I do not have any evidence that would legally assist her prosecution; I am after all not with the Ministry of Justice. However, if you were to ask for my geopolitical viewpoint, I would say that this is the only chance the Department of Public Prosecutions would get to go after her. Eastern Torontia is under Xirniumite Common law and Levitt does not have diplomatic immunity…nor can she readily leave Torontia because of the situation at home. So, unless you have a legal agreement with Kahanistan that grants immunity to their soldiers, and correct me if I’m wrong but I do not believe you do, then legal action could be taken against her at any time… An investigation could be launched, evidence gathered, witness testimony collected the good General’s statement taken… When I say this is the only chance your Department of Public Prosecutions will get, I mean that once she returns to Kahanistan they will never get another chance. The Kahanistani government is led by incompetents who have led Kahanistan into lost war after lost war… They are perpetually seeking heroes and propaganda victories to bolster draw attention away from their failures. General Levitt is one such hero… It may be hard for you to believe but many in Kahanistan consider the battle of Xigrat to be a victory. After her release from imprisonment in a Xirnium POW camp she was put on trial for dereliction of duty… The Kahanistanian military command wanted to make her a hero and so lobbied for her acquittal. They went so far as to promote her to Brigadier General during the trial in a direct attempt to influence the verdict… The military command’s efforts were ultimately successful and she was acquitted… When Levitt gets back to Kahanistan, those same military leaders will not let your State’s prosecutors near her… I believe nothing more need be said of this topic…”

Sara finished her second glass of wine and poured a third. She had eaten all the pickles on her tray and so she began to sample the cold potato slices, dipping them in the rich cheese before popping them in her mouth. “Since we are on the general subject of business we might as well finish it up… The reason I did not immediately respond to your earlier remarks concerning improving relations, furthering communication and developing an understanding was because you surprised me Heather… It was a rather sudden change from the tone of our earlier conversation… Ah it seems so long ago,” Sara teasingly sighed. “Remember when Xirnium held all the cards and Amestria,” Sara imitated Heathers voice, “did not matter…”

Sara began to playfully toy with her hair. She flirtingly gazed into Heathers eyes. “If you care to hear me out, I have several proposals that concern your favor, the improvement of relations, the establishment of better communication, and, of course, cooperation concerning Torontia…”

Sara took a sip from her wine glass, waiting for Heathers response.

‘General Levitt,’ the Grand Cardinal began, pausing from her food, ‘is here as a representative and leader of one of the political factions currently in Torontia. Under Kahanistanian law she apparently has the right to delegate individuals under her command to attend diplomatic proceedings – strange, I know. Unless and until such time as the Kahanistanian government withdraws endorsement of her, the High Ecclesiarchy will not remove her diplomatic immunity.’

Lady Heather Gilda frowned, continuing after a moment’s pause. ‘If the Supreme Soviet had not wanted General Levitt to attend this conference then they could easily have sent a message to the Constitutional Convention notifying us that she was not to be recognised officially. It’s not as if the world press has kept secret the names of those present for the conference, and General Levitt’s presence here has been mentioned liberally. An oversight of this kind by the Kahanistanian government’s would be an example of incompetence of the worst degree, but sadly it is not inconceivable.’

The Foreign Minister paused to taste some of the pearl onions. ‘I’ll ask the deputy Foreign Minister to make the appropriate inquiries. Unfortunately, since you have no further information on the Tate murder there would be no point in my speaking with the Department of Public Prosecutions at this time. You can be certain that they are tirelessly pursuing this case. Bare it no further thought, Sara, I’m sure everything will be taken care of,’ Lady Gilda explained with a reassuring smile.

The Grand Cardinal grinned friendlily at as she moved on to other matters. ‘Do not fool yourself into thinking that Xirnium does not, still, hold all the cards in Torontia,’ Lady Gilda warned the Vice Minister, ‘nor that Amestria has any leverage at all in this issue. The High Ecclesiarchy’s wish to warm relations is due to considerations that apply outside of Torontia – and it is in both our nation’s interests.’

Lady Heather Gilda leant forward in her chair. ‘Since you say your government has a suggestion for Xirniumite-Amestrian reconciliation then go ahead, my dear, I’m all ears.’

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a25/Dennis134/official1.jpg

Official Government Memorandum, Office of the Foreign Ministry
The Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

Ad Vitam Aeternam! – For All Time!
To: Ms Margaret Delray
Minister of Foreign Affairs
The Democratic Soviet Republic of Kahanistan

From: Ms Eleanor Sabelina
Parliamentary Secretary to the Foreign Ministry
The Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium


Greetings, Minister Delray, from the Eternal Republic.

As no doubt your government must now be aware (due to its highly publicised nature), Brigadier General Rachel Levitt has appointed herself an envoy to the Torontian Constitutional Convention as representative of the Military Assistance Command. Several foreign delegates at the conference, however, have expressed their concerns that this individual does not have the required endorsement, from your government, to attend.

The High Ecclesiarchy requires that the Supreme Soviet clarify definitively the status of Brigadier General Rachel Levitt and asks whether she is to receive diplomatic immunity as a representative of your sovereign government.

We await your timely response on this matter.

[Signed]
Lady Eleanor Sabelina
Cardinal and Parliamentary Secretary to the Foreign Ministry
The High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

Sara grinned. "You’re bluffing again, but I won't argue the point. Concerning your favor..."

Sara took another sip from her glass of wine and then leaned forward in her chair as well...taking a moment to glance at the Cardinal's sensual and shapely neck before continuing.

"First you must understand I am speaking to you not so much as the Vice Minister of Defense but as a member of the Centralist party and an overall representative of the Amestrian State... The present government will not revoke the anti-Xirniumite legislation. It is too close to the election and they are understandably unwilling to admit error. President Boon is in the final months of second term...the last thing he will want to do is extend an olive branch to the nation that has made his life utterly miserable for the last year..."

Sara took another sip of wine. "However, once elections are concluded and the Centralist party forms a new government, the anti-Xirniumite statutes will be quietly retracted and a public apology issued to the Xirnium State... You understand that we will want to minimize the public exposure of the apology in our domestic media, thus we will most likely issue around the preliminary drafting of the budget. You are of course free to maximize public exposure to the apology as long as you do not hit us over the head with it... We would prefer that you characterize it as the mutual overcoming of past differences..."

Sara paused then continued. "As for financial compensation for the Xirniumites adversely affected, that is out of the question. The State paid in full the current market price for all those deprived of property, as it was requited to under the Constitution. However, I assume your demands for reparations are not so much an issue of argent* but of pride... Once the apology is issued the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will issue and mail a personal apology to each Xirniumite citizen deprived of property by the statutes..."

Sara gave Heather a simply delicious smile. "In return we would like your Parliament to revoke all its anti-Amestrian statutes and edicts, such as those which called Amestria a 'nation of gangsters', accused us of having 'no rule of law', or that impugned our actions in Torontia as illegal. Then we would like a quiet apology from your State as well. Après tout, il prend deux pour faire l'amour.**"

Sara waited for Heathers answer.

(*OOC: money)

(**OOC: "After all, it takes two to make love.")

‘Pass the salt please, Sara,' the Lady Heather Gilda asked with an alluring smile.

The Xirniumite Foreign Minister had mulled over the proposal thoughtfully as Liscel talked, simultaneously admiring her gorgeous green eyes and full lips. THe Amestrian's response wasn’t precisely what she had expected, but it was a start.

‘I cannot pretend that I am not displeased at the fact that your present government is unwilling to come to amiable terms,’ Lady Heather Gilda explained, though her voice remained pleasant. ‘I had thought that such childishness was to remain firmly in your past, though apparently not. Your offer will be meaningless if the Centralist party does not form government, and in any case our discussions here are informal at best. I’m tempted to declare this whole talk a waste of my valuable time…’ the Grand Cardinal threatened, and for a moment Liscel may well have thought her ready to leave the table.

‘I’ll indulge your offer, however, if only out of some idle curiosity – and because I delight in your lovely company, of course,’ Lady Gilda added, flashing the Amestrian Vice Minister a stunning smile.

‘Your government’s refusal to provide additional monetary compensation to the Xirniumite nationals whom your government stripped of property is something we might be willing to accept, provided of course that you keep your word regarding our other arrangements,’ the Foreign Minister indicated. ‘I do take offence, however, at your suggestion that Holy Xirnium has any anti-Amestrian statutes. That is simply untrue. Unlike certain governments we do not enact unjust and discriminatory laws,’ said Lady Gilda with a mocking smile.

‘Furthermore, revoking our nation’s past statements made regarding either the Amestrian government or your conduct in Torontia is absolutely out of the question. Firstly, it is my belief that most of those criticisms were well deserved, and the position of the High Ecclesiarchy has certainly not changed enough to warrant their retraction. I personally defended, if not made, many of those statements, and I stand by them absolutely. Many of your government's actions in Torontia were illegal, and deserving of condemnation.

Also, I think we should allow bygones be bygones. If anything, I'd have thought that a Centralist government would want to distance themselves from the failures and errors of the past administration, not support them.’

‘I’m sure you will agree that a simple statement that we have reconciled and overcome our past differences and agreed to work harmoniously in the future is more then adequate?’ asked Lady Heather Gilda with a smug smile.

‘I’ll indulge your offer, however, if only out of some idle curiosity – and because I delight in your lovely company, of course,’ Lady Gilda added, flashing the Amestrian Vice Minister a stunning smile.


"Thank you..." was Sara's coy reply. As Sara handed Heather the salt her smooth fingers slid along Heather's own and gave Heather's hand a little squeeze.

"So Amestria is a 'nation of gangsters' is it..." Sara remarked sarcastically, acting as if nothing had happened. "First, why should we apologize when your government is unwilling to admit to its own errors? Second, perhaps you could enlighten me with the legal reasoning behind your belief that our actions in Torontia were illegal...I'm not afraid of a cordial discussion on that issue. Third, what would this 'simple statement' you propose entail?"

The Foreign Minister bit her lower lip as she felt Sara’s fingertips brush sensually against her well manicured, slender hand. Pretending not to have noticed the Amestrian’s act, Lady Heather Gilda merely added the salt to her meal, though her mind wandered.

‘Now, now, Sara… if we are to dredge up every single insulting remark made by either of our governments about one another we will still be here long after the winter has melted into spring!' the High Lady exclaimed, grinning. After more then seven glasses of wine she was starting to feel a little tipsy, though it did not affect her sharp intellect. 'Why not just leave that bitterness to the past, where it belongs?’ she asked with infinite reasonableness.

‘On the other hand, your government should apologise for its anti-Xirniumite legislation, in my opinion, because we are speaking of fundamentally different things,’ the Grand Cardinal continued, nodding. ‘The High Ecclesiarchy’s denunciation of your State as “a nation of gangsters”, for example, was little more then a diplomatic insult - one that Amestria made sure to reply to most vocally if I remember correctly,’ Lady Gilda added. ‘We are not asking that Amestria apologise for your government’s previous offensive comments about Holy Xirnium.’

‘What we are asking you to do,’ the Foreign Minister clarified, ‘is to apologise for instating a clearly unjust and discriminatory policy. We ask for this, not out of pride or in order to humiliate Amestria as you seem to believe, but in order to bury our past differences with mutual understanding. Were we to have been guilty of committing a similar wrong against Amestria you can be certain that we would attempt to make amends,’ Lady Gilda assured the lovely Amestrian.

‘I don’t really want to talk about Torontia,’ the Foreign Minister stated, frowning. ‘My reasoning for the High Ecclesiarchy's opinions regarding the Amestrian occupation was clearly enunciated in the many interviews and statements that I made, specifically targeting Amestria’s policy of summary execution of suspected TPLA members. I’m not in the mood to cover the same tired old ground again, it’s much too late for such discussions,’ Lady Gilda asserted, glancing at her bracelet watch. The time approached midnight. ‘As for a possible joint statement indicating that Amestrian and Xirnium have reconciled our differences, I’m open to suggestions. What do you think, my dear?’

‘The High Ecclesiarchy’s denunciation of your State as “a nation of gangsters”, for example, was little more then a diplomatic insult - one that Amestria made sure to reply to most vocally if I remember correctly,’ Lady Gilda added. ‘We are not asking that Amestria apologise for your government’s previous offensive comments about Holy Xirnium.’


Liscel was lost in deep thought for a moment, the tip of her tongue absentmindedly began to lick her lips. She returned the Cardinal's reasonable smile with one of her own. "Perhaps the joint statement could include a prominent but vaguely worded joint apology for all insults made by members of our two States that were delivered by official and unofficial channels..."

Sara glanced down at the remainder of her meal. "Heather, are you ready for desert, these strawberries are very fresh, and it is hard to get any of such quality during this time of year?"

DEMOCRATIC SOVIET REPUBLIC OF KAHANISTAN
Ministry of Foreign Affairs

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/kahanistan.jpg

General Levitt was sent a diplomatic aide to attend the meeting. She desired to advance the cause of the Military Assistance Command, and was well within her authority as commander of the operations there to do so personally. The diplomatic aide who accompanied her, while a military officer, is also a skilled diplomat. While the general will attend the talks, her diplomatic skills are... somewhat lacking, and the aide will do most of the talking.

It appears that she did not receive the President's letter advising her of the Amestrian concerns against her going. We will speak to her when she returns home. I trust she and Minister Liscel get along?

As for whether or not she has diplomatic immunity, that would depend on several factors. First of all, we would need to know the reasoning behind your query. Secondly, the Kahanistanian Constitution forbids us to extradite someone to a nation where they would face certain penalties, such as the death penalty or torture. Thirdly, has she committed a breach of diplomatic protocol which might result in her expulsion from the meeting? If that is the case, diplomatic immunity is irrelevant and she could theoretically be arrested on route to her base.

Signed,
Margaret Delray,
Minister of Foreign Affairs

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a25/Dennis134/official1.jpg

Official Government Memorandum, Office of the Foreign Ministry
The Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

Ad Vitam Aeternam! – For All Time!
To: Ms Margaret Delray
Minister of Foreign Affairs
The Democratic Soviet Republic of Kahanistan

From: Ms Eleanor Sabelina
Parliamentary Secretary to the Foreign Ministry
The Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium


Firstly, allow me to thank you for your government’s rapid response to my message. Your answer has confirmed our original understanding of General Levitt’s status perfectly. It will allow us to definitively address concerns raised by foreign delegates as to the Brigadier General’s legal situation.

As a legitimate envoy of the Military Assistance Command and therefore representative of the Kahanistanian government you can be certain that General Levitt will continue to receive full diplomatic immunity at the Constitutional Convention, as do all delegates at Xirniumite conferences or within the territory of the Eternal Republic. It was certainly never the purpose of my enquiry to suggest that the Brigadier General was to be arrested by Xirniumtie authorities, as some of your questions appeared to imply.

It is my personal opinion that General Levitt and the Amestrian delegation have not been particularly endeared to each other – but that, of course, is irrelevant to my inquiry.

[Signed]
Lady Eleanor Sabelina
Cardinal and Parliamentary Secretary to the Foreign Ministry
The High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

~~~~
‘I suppose a vague statement indicating a clear break from the climate of mutual exchange of insults that in the past marked Xirniumite-Amestrian relations would be acceptable, if that is what you refer to,’ the Foreign Minister agreed, shrugging her shoulders non-committally. ‘Personally I fail to see the significance, but its not a major issue of contention for the High Ecclesiarchy. We're willing to be accomodating.’

Lady Heather Gilda’s lovely hazel eyes brightened at the mention of fresh strawberries. ‘Ahh, yes certainly, Sara,’ she said, smiling. ‘That sounds delightful.’

‘I suppose a vague statement indicating a clear break from the climate of mutual exchange of insults that in the past marked Xirniumite-Amestrian relations would be acceptable, if that is what you refer to,’ the Foreign Minister agreed, shrugging her shoulders non-committally. ‘Personally I fail to see the significance, but its not a major issue of contention for the High Ecclesiarchy.’

"Heather, its called being a generous partner..."


Lady Heather Gilda’s lovely hazel eyes brightened at the mention of fresh strawberries. ‘Ahh, yes certainly,’ she said, smiling. ‘That sounds delightful.’

Sara happily removed the top of the last colored tray, reveling a two bowls of juicy ripe strawberries... Besides each was a slightly smaller bowl of cream mixed with chocolate flakes. Sara took one of the strawberries, lay back and began to trace it along her lips seductively. There was a glint of humor in her eyes, she was clearly being funny...

She finally popped it into her mouth. "Mmmmmm... Have your secretary send me the proposed statement and I will look it over, making the necessary additions and subtractions. Then I will send it back to you until we have something satisfactory to the both of us... Now, since we have worked that out, and it seems neither of us wishes to talk about the infinite complexities of Torontia, even after several glasses of wine..."

Sara sat up, her expression very sincere and trusting. "Care to become friends? I mean independent of positioning and politics, if that is indeed possible? And as you said, lets leave the bitterness in the past where it belongs... Tell me about yourself...and I do not mean the dry details of a personnel file, tell me about yourself...please."

"Heather, its called being a generous partner..."
For some reason the way in which the Amestrian delegate said that seemed extremely funny to the Foreign Minister, and she broke out into a brief fit of hysterical laughter.

'I'm sorry, Sara,' she apologised, grinning, after having quickly stopped herself. 'Go on...'

"Care to become friends? I mean independent of positioning and politics, if that is indeed possible? And as you said, lets leave the bitterness in the past where it belongs... Tell me about yourself...and I do not mean the dry details of a personnel file, tell me about yourself...please."
Lady Heather Gilda laughed insensitively, tilting her head as she leant against the back of her delicate wrist and hand - regarding the gorgeous woman across from her carefully. ‘You want to become friends, do you?’ she asked with a cruel smile. ‘My dear, I doubt we can ever truly be friends, not by any meaningful definition of that term. Politics will always come first.’

‘That’s not to say that we can’t be friendly towards one another though,’ she added with a warm smile. 'Even the most bitter enemies can be cordial, and I don't think we are enemies at all.'

‘As for myself… there’s not much to talk about,’ Lady Gilda explained darkly. ‘I am my work, I am a Grand Cardinal. What more would you like to know?’

‘As for myself… there’s not much to talk about,’ Lady Gilda explained darkly. ‘I am my work, I am a Grand Cardinal. What more would you like to know?’

"I am my work, I am a Grand Cardinal." Sara echoed in a dark teasing voice. "Honestly, that just sounds miserable. I know that your a bit of a workaholic but to go so far as to describe yourself as a job attached to an individual rather then as an individual who holds a job... 'I am my work' is a concept that would have been very much at home in the former Kraven Slave State..." Sara paused to let the irony sink in.

"What more would I like to know...?" Sara pondered the question. "How about you tell me why you entered into politics, tell me about your family, about your favorite color, about something that made you cry when you were a child, about something that has brought you great joy..."

Sara continued to gaze into Heather's alluring eyes. Under the table Sara's right foot slowly and playfully began to caress Heather's left leg.

“I know that your a bit of a workaholic but to go so far as to describe yourself as a job attached to an individual rather then as an individual who holds a job... 'I am my work' is a concept that would have been very much at home in the former Kraven Slave State..."
‘It’s not even vaguely alike,’ explained the Grand Cardinal, hiding the fact that the Amestrian’s words, though untrue, had hurt her. Lady Heather Gilda took another sip from her wineglass, all the while returning the gaze of Ms Liscel. ‘In Holy Xirnium the State serves the individual, not the other way around. The State’s function is purely as a facilitator to allow the individual to fulfil his or her own personal aspirations and goals, whatever they may be and without interference. The Kraven Corporation’s relationship between individual and State is precisely the opposite. The individual is a mere slave, a resource, to be consumed by the monstrous State at its whim and for its own ends.’

‘I am my work because I have dedicated myself to serving the liberal democratic objectives of the Xirniumite people. It is a job which unfortunately, yet understandably, consumes me.’

The Foreign Minister tried a few of the strawberries, before continuing. ‘Such a wide range of questions... is this meant to be a psychological evaluation, or perhaps an interrogation?’ the Grand Cardinal asked with a smile. ‘Very well, like most who become involved in politics my goal was to gain the political power and influence necessary to implement my own policies in various areas. As for family, I’ve a mother and father, but no siblings. My favourite colour is dark red, like my Parliamentary cloak. I never cried when I was a child. As for joy, there are many things that bring me joy.’

Feeling Sara’s foot slowly nudge her left leg, Lady Heather Gilda broke her eye contact with the lovely Amestrian delegate, looking away demurely as she once again bit her lower lip.

'As for joy, there are many things that bring me joy.’

Feeling Sara’s foot slowly nudge her left leg, Lady Heather Gilda broke her eye contact with the lovely Amestrian delegate, looking away demurely as she once again bit her lower lip.

Sara continued to caress Heather's leg playfully with her foot. Her voice was pleasant, soft, warm and sultry. “There have been many things which have brought me joy as well…such as when I felt your body's warmth and your heartbeat, when I saw you glancing at my legs, admiring me, noticing me…when I saw you blush…toy with your hair…"

Sara gave Heather a seductive smile and continued to playfully tease her with her foot.

Lady Heather Gilda’s cheeks flushed scarlet.

‘My how perceptive we are…’ Heather noted, still looking away. ‘Admiring you? Noticing you?’ she asked softly. 'Desiring you?'

The Foreign Minister closed her eyes as she continued to feel her left leg being stroked by the Amestrian delegate’s foot. Inhaling sharply, she felt a shiver of excitement surge through her.

Lady Gilda's awareness quickly focused back on the present, however. ‘Thank you, Sara, for this wonderful dinner. Unfortunately it’s getting rather late, and I’ve still got a lot of work to do before I can retire for the night,’ the Grand Cardinal explained, standing up from the table reluctantly.

Sara stood up as Heather stood up. She walked over to her...

"Please don't go..." Sara said softly. She reached out her right hand and began to gently stroke Heather's neck.

"We are both tense, we are both stressed, our bodies ache with desire... Why deny ourselves satisfaction...?"

Sara leaned close to Heather. Her free hand took hold of Heather's right hand, giving it a little squeeze. Sara leaned close and nibbled on Heather's ear. "At present I am not my State's Vice Minister..." she whispered, "I am simply Sara Liscel...and I want to spend the night with you..."

She then kissed Heather softly on the neck.

Lady Heather Gilda felt uncontrollable desire rise within her and gasped as the Amestrian Vice Minister adoringly kissed her lovely neck. Doubts about the current course of events briefly flickered through her mind but were easily dismissed – the Amestrian bureaucrat will find herself utterly unable to manipulate me if that is what she plans, doubtless much to her own disappointment…

Responding to Sara’s advances, Lady Gilda grasped Ms Liscel gently by her head, kissing the woman’s soft, warm mouth passionately. With startling aggressiveness she pressed the lovely Amestrian against the wall, leaning so close that Sara could smell her subtle perfume scent and feel her racing heartbeat. ‘Mmm... that was as wonderful as I had imagined it would be,’ declared the Foreign Minsiter breathlessly after she finally withdrew her lips. ‘I want you, Sara... now…’ she whispered with gentle urgency, tenderly bitting her neck.

Frenetically, Lady Gilda began to remove the Amestrian’s clothes…

****

Heather Gilda slowly awoke, feeling completely contented and utterly refreshed from the night’s sleep despite the earliness of the hour. The Foreign Minister sighed quietly as she stretched out, enjoying the comfort of the expensive bed and wonderfully soft sheets.

Next to her, the feminine, voluptuous form of the Amestrian stirred, murmuring something incoherently. Lady Gilda leant over, kissing Ms Liscel with teasing softness at the base of her slender neck. Keeping the sheets wrapped tightly around her, the Grand Cardinal sat up, looking about the disorderly bedroom for her discarded bra or panties…

Sara sighed with pleasure as she stretched out across the bed, the soft silky sheets seemingly embracing her... She loved waking up and rolling around in bed as the waves of satisfaction and contentment washed over her... Sara noticed that Heather was already getting dressed...

Ahhh...I wanted to cuddle...oh well. She sat up and watched Heather slowly slip back into her long satin gown. "We should find a way so we can enjoy each others company again sometime... After all, we both had such fun... It would be a shame if this were to be the end of it..."

The tone of Sara's voice became serious and businesslike. "Heather, remember to have your secretary or aide send me the proposed joint statement on reconciliation..." She scooted to the edge of the bed and her tone once again become playful and seductive...

"Before you go Heather…can I have one last kiss?"

Lady Heather Gilda looked around aimlessly to find where she had hastily kicked off her left stiletto shoe the night before, finally finding it behind one of the legs of the massive bed.

‘I’ll ask Ms Ertha to send you my proposed statement after I’ve drafted it,’ the Grand Cardinal explained absentmindedly. ‘For your sake, Sara, I hope you do not renege on the diplomatic agreement that we arrived at - and that your government soon alters its hostile stance towards the Eternal Republic. Last night changed nothing, and we are still not friends. Should you disappoint me you will find that I am a far less pleasant adversary to have then General Levitt.’

The Foreign Minister blew Sara Liscel a suggestive kiss, precisely in order to see the frustrated look on the Amestrian’s lovely face. ‘Till next time, my darling,’ she spoke softly. Her features hardening with the grim determination of a Xirniumite Grand Cardinal, Lady Gilda quietly turned and left the room.

****

‘Ahh, there you are Heather. You seem extremely satisfied with yourself today,’ noted Lady Sabelina, deputy Foreign Minister of Holy Xirnium. It was still early and the sun had only just begun to rise, but already Xirniumites bustled around in preparation for the Constitutional Convention. Having spotted the Grand Cardinal, Lady Sabelina had walked rapidly to catch up with her. ‘May I ask why?’

Lady Gilda had already changed into new, formal clothes, and once again wore her dark burgundy cloak. Upon recognising her Parliamentary colleague Heather's face brightened. ‘Mind your own business, Eleanor,’ the Foreign Minister light-heartedly warned, though she smiled pleasantly.

‘That’s much more like it,’ the Cardinal retorted, not in the least affronted by her colleague’s blunt remarks. ‘That’s the Lady Gilda we all know so well.’

‘Have the engineers finished preparing the Admiralty building for today’s conference?’ Heather Gilda asked, business as usual.

‘Indeed they have. We’re all set to go for the day’s proceedings, and are back on schedule.’

‘Marvellous,’ replied the Grand Cardinal. ‘The engineers will have to be commended for their efforts in rectifying the building 24 hours ahead of our predictions. Today we can begin to shape a bright, new future for Torontia - today we will raze the TPG to the ground.’

The Kahanistanian officer who was being chased by the Xirniumites was finally caught and arrested. He was taken to wherever people arrested by diplomatic security are usually taken, but his plan was not entirely ruined yet...

He awaited interrogation by his adversaries.

Lady Heather Gilda looked around aimlessly to find where she had hastily kicked off her left stiletto shoe the night before, finally finding it behind one of the legs of the massive bed.

‘I’ll ask Ms Ertha to send you my proposed statement after I’ve drafted it,’ the Grand Cardinal explained absentmindedly, frowning. ‘For your sake, Sara, I hope you do not renege on the diplomatic agreement that we arrived at - and that your government soon alters its hostile stance towards the Eternal Republic. Last night changed nothing, and we are still not friends. Should you disappoint me you will find that I am a far less pleasant adversary to have then General Levitt.’

The Foreign Minister blew Sara Liscel a suggestive kiss, precisely in order to see the frustrated look on the Amestrian’s lovely face. ‘Till next time, my darling,’ she spoke softly. Her features hardening with the grim determination of a Xirniumite Grand Cardinal, Lady Gilda quietly turned and left the room.


As Heather left Sara blew her a kiss of her own. “Till next time…” she replied softly as she lay back down, slightly frustrated by the Cardinal’s teasing, but it could not be helped. Sara then pulled the silky sheets back over her, having decided to spend the remaining morning leisurely asleep in bed.

Gilda’s warning did not bother her as she had no intention of reneging on their private agreement. There was nothing to be gained by duplicity. Sara’s eyes closed and she slowly drifted off…

Andrew Dernam slowly entered the darkened holding cell, the collar of his long overcoat turned up menacingly. As one of the shadowy operational officers of the XSIS (the Eternal Republic’s external security agency) the man exuded a certain threatening presence.

‘Where was he found?’ asked the intelligence agent quietly, lighting a cigar.

‘We noticed him stalking the Kahanistanian delegate, General Levitt, in the hotel’s bar. He seemed to be acting suspiciously,’ explained one of the paramilitary guards.

‘Search him, carefully... He may have explosive traps concealed about his person,’ ordered Agent Dernam. 'Let's see what we can find.'

‘Yes sir,’ affirmed the paramilitary officer, and gestured towards his men to comply. They began to frisk the seated captive, who was held in secure yet not uncomfortable binds.

Agent Dernam took a puff from his cigar, leaning closer to the Kahanistanian to get a clearer look. By checking the dilation of the captive's pupils, the XSIS agent might be able to detect any deception to his questions.

‘Who are you, what are you doing here, and for whom do you work?’ asked the Xirniumite Secret Intellignce Service operative smoothly, with seemingly infinite patience.

The Xirniumites' captive was an Imperial Marine, and he was trained to resist interrogation if captured in battle. Now he would use his training to resist the interrogation by the XSIS.

He had no booby traps, merely his sidearm, a combat knife, a few days' worth of combat rations, ... pretty much the typical loadout of a Major in the Imperial Marines. Nothing he had on him was out of the ordinary... except a pill bottle, and a letter that clearly did not come from the Imperial Marines. He had a forged document purporting to be from Amestria on him.

THE STATE OF AMESTRIA
Ministry of Defense

General Levitt is a threat to the security of the State of Amestria. She is to be terminated as soon as it is feasible to do so without revealing the Amestrian State's hand in her death. Otherwise, she will continue to destroy the reputation of the State.

Furthermore, she is likely to reveal incontrovertible evidence of our policies in Torontia. If this happens, the reputation of the State will be irreparably destroyed and our allies will desert us. I might advise slipping a pill of Detachment from the Human Condition into her drink if possible, it will look like an accident with a date rape drug.

Sara Liscel, Vice Minister of Defense

The word "Deputy" had been edited out of an old piece of Amestrian correspondence, and a computer imaging program had been used to make it look authentic. Only under very close scrutiny would the forgery be detected.

The Marine denied knowing anything about General Levitt or any connections with Liscel. He gave only his name, rank, and serial number.

"Douglas Smith, Major, serial number IM-04301979-Omega." This was his real name, rank, and serial number, and his ID would bear that out, but this was all he was saying for now.

Agent Dernam laughed cruelly. ‘You are not a prisoner of war, Major Smith, and you aren’t obliged to say or do anything unless you wish to do so. Whatever you do say, however, may be used in evidence before a Xirniumite Court,’ explained the XSIS operative. 'SIlence is your right under under the Common Law.'

Nodding towards the Kahanistanian, the paramilitary guards quickly removed the captive's binds, having alread disarmed him. Agent Dernam walked over and sat at a large steel table, motioning for the prisoner to sit down across from him.

‘That said, Major, I suggest it would be in your best interests to answer my questions truthfully. The Office of Public Prosecutions just called and they are sending someone here as we speak. Believe me, they will be out for your blood. Your legal counsel will also be here presently,’ explained the XSIS agent. Still puffing on his cigar, he produced a heavy book and leafed through several of its pages.

‘Here we are,’ announced Agent Dernam, throwing the book across to the Kahanistanian, where it landed on the steel table with a clang. 'Have a look at Terrorist Crimes Act 2003, s 135B. It might be of some interest to you.'

The relevent passage read:

135B Other acts done in preparation for, or planning, terrorist acts

(a) A person commits an offence if the person does any act in
preparation for, or planning, a terrorist act.

Penalty: Imprisonment for life.

(b) A person commits an offence under subsection (a) even if:

i. a terrorist act does not occur

ii. the person’s act is not done in preparation for, or planning, a
specific terrorist act; or

iii. the person’s act is done in preparation for, or planning, more
than one terrorist act.

‘Lifetime incarceration, Major Smith,’ the XSIS operations officer explained ominously. 'You're going to die an old man in prison. That is what you are currently looking at. Illegally carrying a firearm, you infiltrated a secure government conference building in preparation for an assassination of a foreign delegate, a terrorist offense under Xirniumite statute law. That letter that you so foolishly decided to carry with you confirms beyond reasonable doubt your intention. The Courts will be ruthless with you.

I suggest you start talking... now.’

Major Smith looked back at the Xirniumite. Underneath his officer's cap, the cogs inside his skull turned as he sought a way out of the trap he had fallen into. 26 years old, and looking at getting buggered in the shower every night for the next 80 or 90 years. They wouldn't happen to have parole in Xirnium, would they?

"The ID is fake," said the Major, now speaking with an Amestrian accent. "My real name is Jean-Francois d'Aste. I work for Amestrian Military Intelligence, and I deeply resent the implication that the State of Amestria practices terrorism. The Vice Minister ordered me to eliminate General Levitt before she ruined the reputation of the State. She provided me with the DHC, told me to go up to General Levitt, talk to her, make a pickup and slip the DHC into her drink. It's lethal when combined with alcohol, it would look like a date rape gone wrong. The Vice Minister would have done it herself, but she didn't think the General would be interested in her."

The officer, whoever he was, smiled at the thought of hooking up with General Levitt. He had, unfortunately for him, not had the heart to approach her in the bar. His bottle was an Amestrian brand, perhaps procured by an agent who had purchased one in Amestria.

"Of course, before I became a suspect, I would already be back in Central, far from the reaches of the Xirniumites. General Levitt would be dead, and I would be assigned to a more prestigious position, at the Intel office in Central."

The Major, or whatever the man was, repressed well his glee at having caused an international incident, and continued his scurrilous lies deadpan.

"You don't understand. The general is unstable, she is dangerous. The State will be ruined if she is allowed to attend the convention. She must be stopped."

He continued to look into the eyes of his interrogators. "I demand to be taken to the Amestrian Embassy." He did not expect the Xirniumites to grant this demand, nor had he any idea of what he would do if they did.

The XSIS agent laughed, as did the paramilitary guards present.

‘I think not, Mr d'Aste – or whatever your name might be,’ answered Agent Dernam, having finally stopped laughing. The operative carefully mused over what the prisoner had told him. ‘You have committed an offence on territory which is under the sovereign jurisdiction of the law of Holy Xirnium, and you have no basis under which to demand we allow you to leave our custody. An aircraft will soon be arriving to take you to the Eternal Republic, where you will eventually appear before the High Supreme Court.’

‘As for the question of whether or not the action which you planned to commit was terrorism, I’m afraid that the law in regards to it is quite clear. Turn back a couple of pages to section 100A, definitions for this section of the act.’

The relevant passage read:

terrorist act means an action or threat of action where:

a) the action falls within subsection (2) and does not fall within subsection (3); and

b) the action is done or the threat is made with the intention of advancing a political, religious or ideological cause; and

c) the action is done or the threat is made with the intention of:

i. coercing, or influencing by intimidation, the government of the Eternal Republic or foreign country, or of the Eternal Republic or foreign country; or
ii. intimidating the public or a section of the public.

(2) An action falls within this subsection if it:

a) causes serious physical harm to a person; or

b) causes serious damage to property; or

c) causes a person’s death; or

d) endangers a person’s life, other than the life of the person taking the action; or

e) creates a serious risk to the health or safety of the public or a section of the public; or

f) seriously interferes with, seriously disrupts, or destroys, an electronic system including, but not limited to:

i. an information system; or
ii. a telecommunications system; or
iii. a financial system; or
iv. a system used for the delivery of essential government services; or
v. a system used for, or by, an essential public utility; or
vi. a system used for, or by, a transport system.

(3) An action falls within this subsection if it:

a) is advocacy, protest, dissent or industrial action; and

b) is not intended:

i. to cause serious harm that is physical harm to a person; or
ii. to cause a person’s death; or
iii. to endanger the life of a person, other than the person taking the action; or
iv. to create a serious risk to the health or safety of the public or a section of the public.

‘By your own admission,' explained the XSIS agent smugly, 'you intended to cause a person’s death, satisfying ss 2(c), in order to advance a political goal, satisfying ss 1(b), and to influence a foreign government, satisfying ss 1(c).

Now, I’m certainly no lawyer, but I’d say you have a hopeless case,’ explained the Xirniumite Secret Intelligence Service officer. He took several more puffs from his cigar, allowing the realisation that the captive would be spending the rest of his life in a small prison cell to fully sink in. 'That order you have there,' Agen Dernam said, point with his cigar at the false Amestrian document, 'combined with your own testimony, will seal your case.'

‘So if that is really the best information you can offer me, then our business here is concluded. I wish you luck at the Courts, not that it will matter very much. You can be quite certain that the OPP will seek the application of the harshest penalty, life without the possibility for parole.

Answer me one final question, before I leave. Why would any assassin be stupid enough to go on a clandestine operation with documents indicating not only the nature of his mission, but also the identity of whom he was working for, secreted on his person? Did you plan on making sure that your cover would be blown upon capture and that we had enough evidence to make sure we could lock you up for life? Your incomeptence borders on the absurd.’

Major Smith had plenty of answers to the Xirniumite's query that could be construed as highly disparaging remarks about Amestrian military competence. He resisted the urge to let loose.

"I forgot that the Vice Minister's letter was in my pocket," he said sheepishly, still not dropping his accent, keeping up the impression that he was an Amestrian officer. He sat down, looking dejected about the idea of spending the rest of his life in cells with homicidal maniacs who hadn't had regular sex with a woman in thirty years.

The idea did not appeal to him, and he began silently to plan his escape.

"As for my basis to demand to be allowed to leave, not only was I acting in my official capacity with Amestrian Military Intelligence, under the sovereign law of the State of Amestria, but it is highly debatable as to whether or not the Eternal Republic can claim Torontia to be its sovereign territory." Nothing like legalese to avoid a bloody escape attempt.

‘You forgot, hmm?’ asked Agent Dernam disbelievingly. ‘Well I’m afraid that is most unfortunate for you. In that case our business here is concluded, you don't have any additional information useful to us. Interview terminated at 03:76.’

The XSIS agent butted out his cigar and rose from his seat, moving towards the door. ‘Bind our guest and get him ready for transfer to the Eternal Republic. His attorney will be here soon to ensure he is treated correctly,’ the operative ordered the commanding officer of the paramilitary soldiers. ‘Don’t take any chances.’

‘Yes, sir.’

‘The High Ecclesiarchy does not claim East Torontia as its sovereign territory, of course,’ explained the intelligence officer as he paused at the door. ‘However, as no other legal government exists here, and as the troops of Holy Xirnium currently occupy the territories of East Torontia, the Xirniumite government is the legitimate temporary custodian of the occupied territories. As an expression of its sovereignty it has past legislation declaring Xirniumite Common and Statue Law to apply here until the future Torontian government is established.

You’ll unfortunately find that the High Supreme Court has found such legislation to be entirely legal. Good luck, Mr d'Aste, I'm afraid your chances aren't too great.’

Without another word the Xirniumite Secret Intelligence Service officer left the room.

"Well, of course the Xirniumite judiciary would find it legal, it's another arm of the Xirniumite State, and a State's first interest is to preserve itself, which it cannot do if it is divided against itself." God, now I'm starting to think like an Amestrian.

He turned to the paramilitary guard commander, certain the trial would be rigged, but wondering if the Xirniumites would be brazen enough to admit it to him. "Am I to assume that the attorney I am to receive is competent?"

He also had so many thoughts wandering through his head. Am I to simply disappear, never to be seen again? I have a wife and family, will they know what really happened to me?

---

General Levitt's quarters

The day before the convention

General Levitt woke up from her sleep, blissfully unaware of the soon-to-be-an-ex-Major who had planned to poison her drink, then rape and kill her. She washed up and changed into a conservative (for her) T-shirt and jeans. The T-shirt read, "Objects under this shirt are larger than they appear." The jeans were ripped at the left knee.

Filled with confidence that Liscel would not attack her in the open, she strode boldly down the hallway, and tripped while turning a corner, right outside the Southeast Asian delegate's quarters, against whose door she struck her head loudly. She was not seriously injured, but the sound would have alerted him to her presence.

"Well, of course the Xirniumite judiciary would find it legal, it's another arm of the Xirniumite State, and a State's first interest is to preserve itself, which it cannot do if it is divided against itself." God, now I'm starting to think like an Amestrian.

He turned to the paramilitary guard commander, certain the trial would be rigged, but wondering if the Xirniumites would be brazen enough to admit it to him. "Am I to assume that the attorney I am to receive is competent?"

He also had so many thoughts wandering through his head. Am I to simply disappear, never to be seen again? I have a wife and family, will they know what really happened to me?
‘That is not the first interest of the Xirniumite State, however,’ explained a man loudly as he entered the dark cell, wearing a dark blue, pinstripe suit and fedora hat. The stranger seemed to radiate charisma and confidence.

‘Jack Wevern, Barrister and Solicitor of the High Supreme Court of Holy Xirnium,’ announced the man, extending his hand in a hearty handshake as he introduced himself. ‘In the Eternal Republic, the first and most fundamental interest of the State is to further the liberal civil and political rights of its citizens, to provide them with the freedom to pursue their own individual aspirations so long as they don't harm others. The State exists solely to serve the individual.’ The lawyer smiled, and led the captive out into the hallway. Personally, from what he had read of the case brief, Mr Wevern did not think the prisoner had much of a chance, but one could always hope

‘First things first, do not say or do anything,’ warned the attorney, raising his index finger. ‘We need to have a long talk before you say anything else to the authorities. Don’t worry, I am a competent lawyer - the Office of Public Prosecutions would not want to risk a future appeal based on inadequate or incompetent defence council, now would they?’

The prisoner nodded. Ninety percent of what he had told the Xirniumite interrogators was completely fabricated bullshit that he had pulled out of his ass while thinking on his feet, something highly encouraged in the Imperial Marines. But if he were to tell the lawyer that, he would likely inform the authorities, and an international incident between Kahanistan and Amestria would never happen.

He couldn't tell the barrister the truth, if his mission was not already failed, it certainly would be then. He merely kept his trap shut and waited to be led away from the guards by the solicitor.

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a25/Dennis134/official1.jpg

Official Government Memorandum, Office of Public Prosecutions
The Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

Ad Vitam Aeternam! – For All Time!
To: Mr Marcellus Quintus Valens
Minister of Defense
The Democratic Soviet Republic of Kahanistan

From: Mr Vincent Timaeus
Director of Public Prosecutions
The Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

Greetings, General Marcellus Valens, from the Eternal Republic.

In order to assist the Xirniumite State in an ongoing prosecution that it is being undertaken in the Eternal Republic we request any information from the Supreme Soviet and Kahanistan Imperial Marines on the following individual, allegedly a soldier in the Kahanistanian Armed Forces:

Major Douglas Smith, IM-04301979-Omega

All available information that you can provide the Office of Public Prosecutions with would be greatly appreciated by the government of Holy Xirnium, particularly visual records of the individual’s appearance as well as any fingerprint or DNA identification details of him that may exist.

We await your reply with interest.

[Signed]
Lord Vincent Timaeus SC
Director of Public Prosecutions
The High Ecclesiarchy of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

DEMOCRATIC SOVIET REPUBLIC OF KAHANISTAN
Ministry of Defense

To: Mr. Vincent Timaeus, Director of Public Prosecutions of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium

In response to your letter requesting information on Major Douglas Smith of the Imperial Marines, please find an attachment including a photograph, physical information, and service record.

Your allies wish you luck in this upcoming trial, and may justice be served.

A lock of Major Smith's hair will be mailed to your office, as we routinely take hair for DNA keeping purposes. It is less invasive and more sanitary than blood, and carries fewer religious objections.

---

Attachment 1: A photograph of a man who looks exactly like the man the Xirniumites have in custody. He is in the dress uniform of a Major in the Imperial Marines.

Attachment 2: A copy of the information on his ID card.

Douglas M. Smith
DOB: April 30, 1979
Height: 5'11" (180 cm)
Weight: 170 lbs. (77 kg)
Hair: Light brown
Eyes: Blue
Rank: Major, Kahanistan Imperial Marines

A thumbprint appears on his ID and on the attachment, as is standard for all Kahanistanian military ID.

Attachment 3: Major Smith's service record.

1992: Entered the eight-year officer training program of the Imperial Marines.
2000: Graduated with secondary school diploma and B.S. in human resource management. Commissioned as second lieutenant in the Imperial Marines.
2001: Promoted to First Lieutenant after being wounded rushing an enemy machine gun position, and awarded a Purple Heart and Distinguished Service Cross.
2002: Awarded second Distinguished Service Cross for an ambush which killed over 50 terrorists and wounded 200 with zero losses among the Imperial Marines.
2003: Promoted to Captain and made company executive officer upon the death of the previous XO in an enemy mortar attack.
2004: Certified as a helicopter pilot and placed in command of an Apache gunship.
2005: Disappeared briefly in battle during the Freekish war, believed dead until escaping from Freekish custody with torture videos, awarded third Distinguished Service Cross.
2006: Promoted to Major and awarded command of a company.

Signed,
General Marcellus Q. Valens,
Minister of Defense

XSIS Intelligence officer Andrew Dernam once again entered the cell of the Kahanistanian captive, startling him with his sudden entry. The holding cell was well lit and, though spartan, quite comfortable with all the required amenities. Agent Dernam was dressed precisely as he had been the first time he interviewed the assassin, though now his expression seemed considerably more grim.

Without any words of greeting he merely threw down a couple of the pages that the Office of Public Prosecutions had just received from Kahanistan.

‘Who are you, Mr d'Aste?’ the operative asked, dragging a steel chair out loudly and sitting down at the table. Slowly lighting a cigar he motioned for the captive to join him.

‘Cut the bullshit right now, because we have evidence that proves you are Major Smith, of the Kahanistan Imperial Marines, that you have lied to us from the beginning . We also have you contradicting yourself multiple times in our recorded interview, so your credibility is shot. About the only thing that you consistently maintained is that you wanted to assassinate General Levitt, and with that we will be able to put you away for life.

The truth, Major, the full truth – or I swear that I will get up and leave and you will have squandered your last chance.’

The McKagan delegation, having been deployed to Seattle for a while now, had finally settled down.

The unexpected deployment had left a gap in diplomatic security. The Imperial McKagan Army had been tasked with defending the delegation from anything that might happen. However, this job was more suited to the MISA. MISA, or the McKagan Imperial Security Agency, had been newly formed. It was the Special Service. It protected the President, Senators, and conducted various other operations both clandestine and within a standard military movement.

A few (three) MISA vehicles, with no external armaments and with only small lockers for a few SMG's or pistols had arrived. A few minutes before them, satellite email to both the Xirnium Commanders and the McKagan Field Officers, letting them know what was happening. As the IMA Soldiers left the suites, the MISA Operatives entered. With a total of 4 Agents inside the building and 8 on the outside, the diplomatic security was now more formal.

"You're so full of merde." Major Smith looked smugly at the Xirniumite. "What chance do I have? I'm going to die an old man in a Xirniumite prison... more likely a young man who died of AIDS from a prison rape, how can you get me off?"

He held a strong suspicion that his interrogator was lying through his teeth. Why would the Xirniumite offer him a deal if he felt that he could send him away for life?

"The evidence is all planted. How stupid do you think we are, you paysan? We killed a Kahanistanian officer, then we had an agent who looked like him assume his identity. We even cut the hands off of his body, so that I would have his fingerprints if I needed them, and transplanted hairs from his scalp into mine so I can produce his DNA. The Amestrian healthcare budget allows for radical developments like hand transplants..."

Smith, or D'Aste, or whoever he was, arrogantly smirked at his interrogator. "Now, is there anything else you wanted to ask me about Amestrian infiltration techniques? Since it seems that Ms. Liscel doesn't care if I rot in prison, I can see... defecting... to the XSIS, in exchange for my freedom."

‘You are a fool, Mr Smith,’ explained the Xirniumite Secret Intelligence Service agent as he got to his feet, shaking his head in disbelief. ‘We both know that you aren’t Amestrian, your fake accent wont convince anyone. A simple genetic blood test will prove your identity beyond any doubt. Unfortunately for you, that wont prevent the prosecution from painting you as a turncoat Kahanistanian who attempted to assassinate a foreign delegate at a Xirniumite conferece for political ends.’

‘No, you wont contract AIDS, nor will you be raped while incarcerated, since Xirniumite prisons are safe, well funded and well-maintained. You will, however, spend the rest of the considerable remainder of your life in a cell behind bars. If you don’t want to help yourself that is your own problem,’ the operative explained, shrugging. 'Forget about defecting to the Xirniumite Secret Intelligence Service - we have no need for pitiful fools like you.'

‘Get this filth ready for immediate transport to Xirnium,' the intelligence officer ordered the stationed guards. 'The aircraft will be here in minutes. The XSIS is done with him.’

Lady Gilda and her colleagues quietly discussed politics in the Foreign Minister's substantial hotel suit as they ate the day’s breakfast. To Heather and the other Xirniumites the meal seemed woefully substandard, much too oily and greasy. Eventually the Foreign Minister pushed her plate away in disgust, drinking deeply from her wineglass instead. After the delightful Amestrian meal that she had shared with Sara Liscel the night before, this Torontian dish tasted horribly bland.

Hmmm, Sara… the Grand Cardinal thought, recalling the other events of last night with a thrill of excitement. Lady Heather Gilda quickly suppressed the thought, however, returning to the matter at hand.

‘So the Kahanistanian General seemed convinced that the Amestrians were planning to assassinate her, right here at the conference?’ asked the Foreign Minister, frowning slightly.

‘Yes, Minister. She seemed highly agitated, and showed signs of irrational paranoia,’ explained the Grand Cardinal’s personal secretary, Abigail Ertha.

‘Even though she is being guarded around the clock by Xirniumite paramilitary troops?’ the Xirniumite deputy Foreign Minister, Lady Sabelina, asked sceptically. Her own plate remained untouched.

‘Indeed. She seemed to think that assassins had infiltrated the Xirniumite security details,’ replied the aide, shrugging her shoulders. The two Parliamentarians merely scoffed at this absurdity.

The ladies were abruptly interrupted, however, by a knock at the door. ‘Enter,’ commanded the Foreign Minister.

‘Your Eminence, Xirniumite security has captured and interrogated an assassin who had somehow made it into the Varda,’ explained an XSIS operative.

‘That must be the suspicious man I told you about!’ exclaimed Ms Ertha to the deputy Foreign Minister.

Lady Gilda ignored her secretary's interjection. ‘Where is he now?’ she asked dangerously.

‘The captive has been moved from here and is being held in the secure holding cells at the Seattle International Airport,’ explained the intelligence officer. ‘Though he claims to be an Amestrian assassin sent to murder General Levitt, we suspect him to be a Kahanistanian who is attempting to frame the Amestrians and cause a diplomatic incident.’

Heather Gilda sighed. ‘I cannot believe that so much nonsense revolves around this “General Levitt”. How an inconsequential logistics officer with no understanding of politics in the least can be the source of so much trouble, I will never know,’ the Foreign Minister remarked angrily.

‘She has threatened to reveal details of Amestrian atrocities at the conference, Heather,’ explained Lady Sabelina.

‘Those details have already been revealed, Eleanor, by us. The Kahanistanian has no new information of any kind to offer, she has nothing to say that hasn’t already been said before. No statement that she could make would cause any controversy. This has, quite simply, become beyond absurd,’ replied Lady Gilda.

‘What would you like us to do with the prisoner, your Eminence?’ asked the intelligence operative tentatively.

‘Has the OPP been informed of his capture?’ asked the Foreign Minister.

‘Yes, your Eminence,’ replied the man.

‘Excellent. Then prepare the captive for immediate transportation to the Eternal Republic. We will leave the Courts to deal with him,’ answered Lady Gilda. ‘I suppose I had better inform the Amestrian delegation about what has happened before rumours start to spread around.’

****

Having reached the suite of the Amestrian Vice Minister of Defence, Heather Gilda paused and knocked firmly.

‘Ms Liscel?’ she asked, using the unfamiliar form of address in case the lovely bureaucrat was in a meeting with her colleagues.

Having reached the suite of the Amestrian Vice Minister of Defence, Heather Gilda paused and knocked firmly.

Sara awoke and sat up with a start at the sound of knocking. What time is it? She realized she was hungry.


‘Ms Liscel?’


Sara dove out of bed and began to frantically search the room for her clothes. She could not find her bra or panty's and her pants and shirt were still in the dining room...

"I'll be just a minute... coming" Sara called out to whoever was at the door while she rushed into the dining room.

****

Gilda noticed Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Cle'o de Me'rode walking down the hallway accompanied by an aide. Clo'e was reading from a folder.

"Député Minister," said the aide, "Vice-président Mitsune Konno est arrivé."

"Bon," replied the Deputy Minister, "nous avons des sujets à discuter."

Clo'e stopped when she saw the Grand Cardinal waiting outside Sara's suite. She closed her folder with a snap. "Ah, Lady Gilda, what an interesting coincidence... I was just about to wake up the Vice Minister."

With that Clo'e began to loudly knock upon the door. "Réveillez-vous aristocrate?!*" she shouted.

"Soyez lanceur silencieux de pierres!**" was the very harsh and angry reply from the other side of the door. It was quickly followed by a very sweet voice. "Coming...coming."

"She tends to sleep-in. I hear that she will often sleep past noon on her days off..." Clo'e explained. "Now Grand Cardinal, while we are waiting for the Vice Minister perhaps I could be of service…”

(*OOC: "You awake aristocrat?!")

(**OOC: "Be quiet stone launcher!")

"She tends to sleep-in. I hear that she will often sleep past noon on her days off..."
The Foreign Minister laughed unkindly. ‘Why does it not surprise me that a bureaucrat from a patrician family would be prone to indolence?’ asked Lady Gilda whimsically.

Heather Gilda’s spirits had sunk upon seeing Cle'o de Me'rode walking down the hallway, though she didn’t show any outward change in demeanour. Privately, Lady Gilda had wanted the opportunity to talk with the gorgeous Amestrian Vice Minister alone, but that seemed impossible now that the remained of the delegation had arrived.

‘Anyway, Ms Liscel’s absence is unimportant,’ explained the Foreign Minister with a dismissive wave of her hand, ‘you’ll do just as well, I suppose. I’ve come here to inform your delegation that, last night, an assassin claiming to be in the service of the Amestrian government was captured somewhere on the hotel’s grounds by Xirniumite paramilitary security guards. I thought it would be best that you learnt about this from me before any… rumours began to circulate.’

‘You need not worry,’ Lady Gilda added hastily. ‘The offender has been removed from the area and the threat eliminated. Even now he will be on his way to the Eternal Republic, where he will be tried before a Xirniumite Court.’

The Foreign Minister began to leave but then remembered an additional detail. ‘Oh, while I am here let me also inform you that repairs have been concluded ahead of schedual on the conference venue, and we will be commencing with the Constitutional Convention today. I am looking forward to working with you, Deputy Minister.’

Lady Gilda smiled encouragingly.

Clo’e’s eyebrows rose but she was able to return the gracious smile. “And I look forward to working with you as well Minister…” she replied with the utmost politeness. “What is this about an assassin claiming to be in the service of our State?”

The door to Sara’s suite suddenly opened. Vice Minister Sara Liscel stood before them breathless and slightly flushed. She was wearing the wrinkled shirt and pants from the previous night. Sara brushed the hair from her face and stood up straight, trying to put forth some form of dignity. “Why Lady Gilda, Deputy Minister Me'rode, what a pleasant surprise… How may I be of service?”

She seemed to have regained her composer until her stomach growled. Her face further reddened… Oh well, make the best of a bad situation…

Sara’s eyes darted to the aide standing next to Clo’e. “Michel I would like breakfast sent up…”

“You mean brunch, don’t you Vice Minister?”

“Yerr, yes, brunch… I will have a pouched Ostrich egg, a side of Comté, a croissant, a grapefruit and black tea.”

“Yes Minister, I will have it prepared at once.”

“Wait, perhaps you should make that two…” Sara turned to Gilda and smiled. “Lady Gilda, would you care to join me for brunch…?“

Clo’e cleared her throat.

Sara again straightened up. “Now what is this about?” she asked.

“Lady Gilda, would you care to join me for brunch…?“
Lady Heather Gilda’s eyes narrowed at the sight of the scruffy and unkempt look of the Vice Minister of Defence, though her heartbeat surged at seeing Sara Liscel.

‘Some other time, perhaps, Vice Minister,’ the Foreign Minister replied politely, though in fact she would have liked nothing more then to have brunch with the lovely Amestrian. ‘Unfourtunately I’ve already eaten this morning, and in any case I simply don’t have the time.’

Turning back to Clo’e de Me'rode, Lady Gilda’s expression became deadly serious. ‘Apparently the assassin intended to murder General Rachel Levitt, of the Kahanistanian delegation,’ explained the Grand Cardinal. ‘He claimed to have been working on the express orders of Ms Liscel, and even produced documents to ostensibly prove that fact. Fortunately he was captured before he could fulfil his mission.’

Sara's eyes widened in surprise. She waved her left hand in the air signaling her confusion. "Slow down, slow down, you've lost me..."

Sara turned back to Michel (the aide). "Brunch for one."

"Yes Vice Minister." Michel turned and departed to convey Liscel's order to the kitchen staff.

Sara turned back to the Cardinal. "From the begining please."

Lady Heather Gilda emitted an exasperated sigh.

‘Early this morning Xirniumite paramilitary security guards captured a suspicious individual somewhere on the hotel’s grounds,' she explained succinctly. 'On interrogation, the man claimed to have been working for the Amestrian government and that he intended to assassinate the Kahanistanian delegate. The individual has since been moved to a secure holding cell, awaiting transportation to the Eternal Republic to face trial.’

"Minister, I assure you that our State has no connection what-so-ever with this individual, whoever he is." Clo'e quickly replied. "If there is anything we can do to assist your government in this matter just let me know."

Sara crossed her arms and leaned against the door frame, her expression serious. "You say he claimed he was acting under my orders and produced documents to support that claim?"

"Minister, I assure you that our State has no connection what-so-ever with this individual, whoever he is."
‘I don’t doubt that,’ the Grand Cardinal replied, perhaps a little impatiently. The captive’s story had sounded so fancifully illogical to the Foreign Minister (his sheer incompetence at carrying sensitive documents while on a clandestine mission, for example, was so great as to arouse immediate suspicion) that Lady Gilda had dismissed it almost out of hand.

‘Still, it will be important for us, and also for you (since it was your government which the assassin apparently wished to frame for the murder), to find out precisely whom the individual was working for,’ the Foreign Minister added.

Turning to the Amestrian Vice Minister, Lady Heather Gilda elaborated on the letter. ‘After being searched the captive was found to have been carrying an order purporting to be from you personally,’ Lady Gilda explained. ‘It stipulated that the assassin was to use a certain powerful pharmaceutical product manufactured in your country that, when combined with alcohol, tends to act as a powerful anaesthetic, in order to incapacitate and kill the Kahanistanian General.’

‘Perhaps you could provide Amestrian specialists to assist the XSIS in their examination of the veracity of the order, Ms de Me'rode?’ suggested Heather Gilda with a shrug. The Foreign Minister's tolerance for all the nonsense which seemed to surround General Levitt had worn extremely thin, and she mostly just wanted to leave the OPP to deal with the inept Kahanistanian assassin.

Clo'e nodded. "Our Government will assist the XSIS in its investigation."

Sara sighed, apparantly sharing Gilda's annoyance over the situation. "This reminds me of something out of the Theater of the Absurd, C'est fou*. In my opinion the most likely person the assissan was working for is the same General Levitt he was supposedly sent to kill. First she shows that trash book full of xenophobic lies to the other delegates, then she was involved in that Novan attempt to kidnapp us, now we have an idiotic assissan sent to kill her and all too willing to finger me as the person who ordered him to kill her..."

Sara turned and looked directly at Gilda. "Am I the only one who seems to see a pattern of chronic incompetent intrigue centered around the good General Levitt?"

(*OOC: "It is insane.")

The Foreign Minister smiled disarmingly at Sara Liscel.

‘No, you’re not the only one,' replied Lady Gilda. 'Whether intentionally or not, the Kahanistanian General seems to be surrounded by a whole slew of absurd plots that do not make the slightest political sense to me. How a mere logistics officer can be worth all this trouble I do not know.'

'One thing is certain,' continued Heather Gilda, 'and that is that the group behind this latest attempt to smear your government is utterly inept at creating a convincing illusion. I don't think that I would be incorrect in assuming that, if you or government had wanted someone killed, you would certainly not have utilised the services of an assassin so incompetent as to reveal your complicity after no more then five minutes of interrogation.’

'Hmm, the whole feeling of this is not dissimilar to the illogical allegations made against me and the Xirniumite government by the Novan media recently. Perhaps you read about them? It smacks of the same type of fantastical implausibility. And they all come back to the very same person, General Levitt.'

'Hmm, the whole feeling of this is not dissimilar to the illogical allegations made against me and the Xirniumite government by the Novan media recently. Perhaps you read about them? It smacks of the same type of fantastical implausibility. And they all come back to the very same person, General Levitt.'

Sara chuckled. "I'm afraid I am not a fan of cloak and dagger fiction... As for Levitt...truly, truly, why is she here? Perhaps you could politely ask her to leave, I have a feeling that her absence will spare us the irritation of any further non sequiturs."

‘No, I wont ask her to leave,’ the Foreign Minister explained, frowning. ‘The Kahanistanian delegate has already received far more media attention then her position or political status warrants, and I certainly wont contribute to furthering this farce. If the Supreme Soviet believes that a logistics officer is the best person to represent their government in a conference on Constitutional Law, then that is their prerogative. General Levitt is irrelevant, bare her no further thought.’

Lady Gilda sighed, checking her bracelet watch. ‘Unfortunately I really must be attending to other duties. Ms de Merode, Ms Liscel, I look forward to seeing you later on at the Convention.’ Heather Gilda felt a strong yearning to kiss the Amestrian Vice Minister’s soft lips, though clearly such an action was not possible with everyone else present. Instead she merely contented herself with smiling friendlily to the collective delegation.

With a ruffle of her dark red cloak the Grand Cardinal prepared to march off.

"Minister, we will follow your advice and ignore the good General from this point forward. Thank you for taking the time to bring this latest tragedy of errors to our attention. I look forward to seeing you at the Convention as well, till then."

Clo'e turned and began to walk down the hallway, once more reading the file from earlier.

Sara straightened up. "Yes thank you for coming down personally. I to look forward to seeing you at the Convention..."

As soon as Clo'e had rounded the corner Sara gave Heather a delicious pout... "It’s really too bad you don't have the time for brunch with me" she said teasingly as she ran her right hand through her hair, across her face, and down her neck. "But I suppose it can't be helped...I'm sure you can make it up to me later." Sara winked and blew Heather a kiss as she slowly retreated back into her room and closed the door behind her.

Main Conference Hall, Former Admiralty Complex
Later in the Day

The numerous conversations of the seated delegates who gathered in the cavernous conference hall grew to a dull roar as the venue gradually filled. A vast, dark mahogany circular table with a gap in its centre took up a large portion of the chamber, with easily enough high backed chairs to seat the multitude of foreign and Torontian delegates and their aides. Microphones were provided at strategic locations around the table to amplify the speech of the Convention members, and bottles of both water and (as is customary at all formal Xirniumite diplomatic functions) alcoholic beverages, along with glasses, were carefully positioned at regular intervals.

Lady Heather Gilda, Lady Eleanor Sabelina and the rest of the substantially large Xirniumite delegation were involved in deep and serious discussion, carefully preparing for the symposium which was about to begin.

‘Have all of the Convention members arrived?’ whispered the Foreign Minister to her aide, regarding the gathered delegates carefully.

‘Yes, your Eminence. Mr Ho and the rest of the Southeast Asian delegation were the final group to arrive,’ explained the Grand Cardinal’s personal secretary, Ms Ertha. 'We are ready to begin at your discretion, Minister.'

‘Capital,’ exclaimed Lady Gilda. ‘Well we will get started then.’

Rising to her feet, the Xirniumite Foreign Minister smoothed her long, dark cloak and cleared her throat – calming her nerves. Automatically, the microphone activated, carefully amplifying her voice so as to be clearly audible to everyone in the hall.

‘Welcome, esteemed ladies and gentlemen, to the first Torontian Constitutional Convention,’ the Grand Cardinal began with an enthusiastic smile, as the conference room quietened. ‘For those of you who may be unaware, I am Heather Gilda, Foreign Minister of the Eternal Republic of Holy Xirnium.’

‘This ultimate purpose of the Torontian Constitutional Conventions will be to assist the people of Torontia in their worthy efforts to create a liberal democratic government that is both strongly independent and national. To this end, our opening symposium will serve primarily as a forum for the open and critical evaluation of a range of opinions on the most desirable governmental structure for a united Torontia.

Another item to be considered by the Constitutional Convention will be to determine the most beneficial future structure of the Torontian self-determination process. In this way, a solid, workable plan for a self-government can be successfully implemented.

Ancillary discussion will revolve principally around the role that foreign sovereign governments will take in shaping Torontia’s future, and concern the eventual fate of the current contributions of different nations to Torontia. We must remember that Torontia’s road to self-determination will ultimately be decided by Torontians, and that the governments of nations such as Holy Xirnium are here merely as facilitators of that reality.’

The Foreign Minister paused, taking a quick sip of water from her glass.

‘Very well, assuming of course that there are not any questions or concerns that need addressing before we begin,’ explained Lady Gilda, ‘we can proceed directly to the first item of the Convention. I think it is only fitting that we start by discussing what process should be used to draft and then implement the new Torontian Constitution and its various governmental and State institutions. The Xirniumite delegation is of the opinion that such a method should consider the concepts of popular sovereignty as the primary concern in our deliberations on this matter, and therefore make extensive use of both plebiscites and referenda during Torontia's journey to self rule.

In that way, the Torontian people will be directly involved in their own efforts towards self-determination, and feel fully empowered by democracy.’

The Amestrian and TPG delegations sat right next to each other and were noticeably wearing the same manner of clothing, matching black business suits with white dress shirts. The only difference in attire between the two delegations was that the TPG delegation wore TNCP armbands.

Deputy Minister Clo’e de Me'rode was sorting through various papers. Vice Minister Sara Liscel lay back in her chair, leisurely sipping tea, while doodling pyramids on a sheet of scratch paper.

TPG Vice President, Mitsune Konno, who was sitting adjacent to Liscel, spoke. She was a woman of Japanese descent, 5.6 with brown hair and a fox-like expression.

"How do you define 'popular sovereignty', do you mean 50% of the vote plus one? How many people must participate, what is the threshold, and what is meant by extensive use of 'both plebiscites and referenda'? Are you saying that every article of the new Constitution must be confirmed separately by the voters?"

Clo'e spoke, her eyes not leaving the papers before her. "The State of Amestria is of the opinion that there need be only one referendum on the finished product of these proceedings and that any additional referenda are redundant."

The Kahanistanian delegation entered the room. It consisted of two delegates each wearing the standard dress uniform of an officer in the Imperial Marines. General Levitt sat down next to her aide, Major Abrams. The aide would do most of the talking, Levitt's role was merely to represent the views of the Military Assistance Command, Torontia, but she had taken it upon herself to champion justice for the victims of the Amestrian war crimes. Her aide was to make sure that she didn't say anything too offensive, and advocate the interests of the Kahanistanian Government.

'The Xirniumite delegation uses the term “popular sovereignty” as one of the ideological concepts which we feel should direct the course of the Constitutional Conventions. It is not used as a term which denotes specific procedural rules,' explained Lady Heather Gilda. 'How best to enshrine the concept of popular sovereignty in both the Constitution and future Torontian government may be disputed by the members of the Constitutional Conventions.'

'I suggest that the most useful description of “popular sovereignty” should be that the powers of government belong to, and are derived from, the governed, that is to say, the people of Torontia. The people of Torontia, therefore, not the government, possess absolute sovereignty,' elaborated the Foreign Minister.

'The new government of Torontia will therefore be instituted, if I may borrow a famous phrase Hobbes’ Leviathan, “when a Multitude of men do Agree, and Covenant, every one, with every one, that to whatsoever… Assembly of Men, shall be given by the major part, the Right to Present the Person of them all, (that is to say, to be their Representative).” The concept of popular sovereignty is critical, indeed it is the whole justification behind Torontian self-determination at all,' argued Lady Gilda, taking another quick sip from her glass of water. 'Were it indefensible there would be no reason for these Constitutional Conventions at all, and we may as well carve up Torontia between its occupying powers - since every occupying nation in Torontia is sovereign.'

Quickly donning her reading glasses, the Xirniuimite Foreign Minister examined some documents in front of her. Lady Gilda ran her index finger down along one of the sections of text.

'We recommend that, after the general concepts and structure of the future Torontian government are proposed at this current Constitutional Convention, a plebiscite be held to determine whether it has the support of the people of Torontia,' announced the Foreign Minister. 'We further recommend that different Constitutional Conventions be held to draft the workings, in detail, of the three major branches of the future Torontian government, the Executive, Legislative and Judicial arms. The Xirniumite delegation would like to see that plebiscites be held after each. Finally, we wish to see a referendum held for the finalised Constitution which will enact it by authority of the Torontian people.'

'This is a conservative approach,' emphasised Lady Heather Gilda. 'It would be unwise, in my opinion, not to hold plebiscites after each individual Constitutional Convention, only to find at the end of the process that the people do not approve of the finished product. Such a result would be a monumental waste of time and resources, and such a method would be both foolhardy and reckless.

As for the vote required for the referendum, a simple majority (in other words, greater then fifty per cent) of the entire Torontian population eligible to vote seems adequate.'

Josh Ward and Colonel Kietz sat beside each other, even though they weren't representing the same people, on one end of the table. A single MISA Agent inside the room, unarmed (overtly), the rest were outside in various other places.

There wasn't much either of them could add at the moment, considering the Xirniumites seemed to me running the show and the only other major player to get anything of any great importance out was the Amestrian. Finally, Kietz spoke up, trying as best he could not to interupt anyone.

"I understand this is about making Torontia as independent from the international community as possible, but I think we're missing one key issue. You're talking of how we're going to go about forming the constitution, that's all fine and dandy up until a point, but have you ever considered about actually implementing the grass roots of this constitution? It is at this time I suggest the following: A formation of a joint, international voting council. It will be the first signs of the most important thing: The greedy international parties who involved in this will begin to work together. It will regulate the voting, make sure it gets done, and make sure it gets done fairly."

‘Of course, an independent, international, oversight body to ensure that free and fair voting occurs in Torontia is not only desirable, but essential,’ opined Lady Eleanor Sabelina, deputy Foreign Minister of Holy Xirnium. She was the only other member of the Xirniumite delegation apart from Lady Gilda to wear the distinctive Parliamentary cloak, of a red so dark it was almost black. The attire of the two members of the High Ecclesiarchy contrasted markedly with that of the rest of the Xirniumites, who wore stylishly expensive grey, navy blue or charcoal coloured business suits.

‘An international organisation to monitor voting in Torontia during the journey towards self-determination will lend credibility and transparency to the process. It will allow the clear implementation of popular sovereignty to not only occur but, perhaps more importantly, to be seen to occur.’

‘We are in agreement,’ answered Balor to Lady Gilda’s recommendation, ‘If the Torontian populous is not informed and does not agree with each step of this convention then we are simply pouring effort into inevitable failure.’

The Emperor paused for a moment, taking a sip from his glass of water and shifting into a more comfortable position in his chair.

‘We do not however approve of a simple majority being used to determine a referendum. A fifty percent criteria allows for motions to pass that up to half of the nation may still disagree with. I recommend the majority needs no less than two thirds acceptance.’