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Diplomatic Talks Between Yanitaria and Tocrowkia
The Chateux de Joux, outside the city of Neufchâteau
http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/UNDComrade/Yanitaria/ChateuxdeJoux.jpg
© Yanitarian News Wire

Neufchâteau-à-la-frontière, Province Montagneuse - Excitement abounds at the southern city of Neufchâteau as preparations are made to host what would seem to be the first of a number of diplomatic talks between high level diplomats of La Yanitarie and Tocrowkia. Special importance is placed on these talks, as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jocelyn Eldegaard, will be scrutinized by the public during the election season, and the outcome of the talks could very well sway public opinion on the Parti Social-Démocrate. Should talks go awry, the Partie Monarchiste may find itself with a legislative majority next month.

Soldiers of the 1ère Division d'Infanterie Mécanisée were moved temporarily to a base near Le Chateux de Joux, not only to take part in security measures (although one could note that their dress uniforms preclude most intense physical activity), but also to present the Royal Army's best soldiers to the Tocrowkian official, hopefully sending the intended message that while Yanitaria may be relatively small, her military has more than enough teeth. For the media allowed into the courtyard of the chateux (after the notably stringent searches. One foreign comedian noted at a previous event some years ago previous event some years ago (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13167121&postcount=155) "So the Yanitarians made me take of all of my clothes to cover a conference which I and none of my fellow journalists were able to even enter. Well, at least they know how long my c--k is.") were greeted by the sight of four positively sparkling Nakíl 1A3 tanks, alongside two heavier MCA-7E Ubara Tirak tanks. The First platoon, in their khaki and black uniforms hefted their AY-144 rifles with pride, performing drills for the benefit of the cameras.

From the vantage point of the chateux, the artillery battalion, the essence of military prowess and Yanitarian Technical skill (OOC: Big Steel Penis RAWR) could clearly be seen, and there was no doubt that any diplomatic talks would take place near a window, offering a breathtaking view of the valley, with the stiff reminder of the artillery always in sight. On a lighter note, Royal Chef Quentin de Grasse was present, and insisted that all journalists sample a number of delicacies that would be available for the diplomats, chief among them his Croque-Yanitarien (smoked salmon cooked in bread with cheese, served with a tomato and mushroom omelet placed on top), which almost instantly disappeared from the table. Additionally, he had prepared a stew of indeterminate origin, which he had only named as Le Dolma de les Abigazi, referencing the semetic people of the Peoples Republic of Abigazi, where Yanitaria holds a strong influence.

As the diplomatic representative arrives today, it is sure to be a hot topic for the media. As always, YNW will bring you continuous coverage.

Copyright 2008 Yanitarian News Wire. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
URL: http://www.YNW.gov.ya/articles/ (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=551560)
© 2008 Yanitarian News Wire

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Le Chateux de Joux, Neufchâteau

Eldegaard oversaw the preparations of the salon, ensuring the immaculate presentation. Several sorts of a teas, wine, cigars, cigarettes, and bowls of nuts were waiting in the next room, everything hand inspected for even the slightest imperfections. By order of His Royal Highness, King Frederik Norheim II, an inordinate amount of background preparation was made, hundreds of people working sixteen hour shifts behind the scenes in order to present the best face of Yanitaria, while taking every measure to appear effortless. Before the representative of Tocrowkia arrived, almost a hundred people would be herded out of a sally port, through the forest, and into a military convoy of four trucks and two escorts that would take them back to the small village in the valley. There, three charter buses awaited to ferry them back to their hotels in the urban area of Neufchâteau. This would leave just enough people in the building to attend to the needs of the meeting.

Eldegaard had handpicked her entourage for the meeting from a number of party retainers that she knew would act as good representatives of Yanitaria. Among them was Jean-Luc Pennautier, a linguist skilled in germanic languages. He was able to speak both national languages of Yanitaria, French and Norwegian (of the Yanitarian varieties, with their subtle differences), the regional dialect of Yanitarian Prussian, which differs only slightly from the German spoken by their Prussian northern Neighbors, as well as a few Scandinavian and Germanic Dialects widely known throughout the world. Additionally, he looked distinctively like an ethnic Yanitarien, the Norwegian speaking ethnic majority of the country, with fine brown hair and blue eyes, broad shoulders with not even a hint of a slouch.

He was almost the exact opposite of Charlotte d'Armance. Young but experienced, Charlotte was of the noble family Cannes, who had for hundreds of years dominated the politics of La Yanitarie, before the November Revolution during the 1980's that put the current monarch's father into power. Her red hair stood out against the grey, white, and black of her stylish suit and skirt, which had been tailored specifically for this event. She had been chosen specifically for her great confidence and immense charisma, which often allowed her to command complete attention and respect of a crowd. The choice of Charlotte was dual sided, however. Norheim II himself had asked that she be present, in order to prepare her for a future job as the ambassador to Tocrowkia, for a number of reasons. Chiefly, Norheim knew that she would be a threat to his throne at some point in the future, due to her speaking ability, and royal blood. Hopefully, she could use this natural aptitude to covertly acquire information for her country, and if she were to enamour a Tocrowkian politician, all the better. In any case, she would be far removed from the Yanitarian public eye, so as not to threaten the crown.

At around tea time, the final preparations were made, the unnecessary servants were secreted off, and the three diplomats brought to the front door of the chateux, in the courtyard. The Tanks present flew Yanitarian and Tocrowkian flags, while the platoon of Royal Army Regulars in their summer dress (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/UNDComrade/Yanitaria/Uniforms/ArmOff.png) uniforms (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/UNDComrade/Yanitaria/Uniforms/ArmyEnlisted.png) took up position, carrying their modern looking AY-144 (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13933320&postcount=264) rifles at Present Arms. The officers, armed with sabres instead of rifles, raised their sabres to the proper substitute position, while the guidion bearers leveled their flags at a 45 degree angle, as opposed to the horizontal of most countries. The tank crews stood on top of their tanks, in a square pattern, holding their sub-carbine AY-144C's at present arms. Through the gate, Eldegaard could see the convoy, two Yanitarian SLT-31A Chevaliers escorting a limo flying both Yanitarian and Tocrowkian flags approaching.

High Chancellor of the Tocrowkian Reich, Strife Piett (http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/2863/draftlens1825423module7jl3.jpg) was not used to diplomatic meetings. Indeed, he was not exactly the social type even before he received his disfiguring scar in the war to over throw the Neo-Bolshevist regime that ruled the Tocrowkian Reich. It wasn't exactly the he did not like foreigners, he just did not trust the majority of them. After all, Tocrowkians were brought up to question the goals of foreigners and view them with suspicion. They wanted to contaminate our Nordic blood, they told you. They want to dilute the racial purity of the Reich, they insisted. However, that could only happen if one let the foreigners too close. And if the foreigners in question weren't considered pure in the first place.

Strife knew he wouldn't let anybody seduce him or cloud his vision, but he did not know the status of the Yanitarian blood. He should have studied more but he did not. The High Chancellor was the second highest position of in the Tocrowkian Reich and he was usually busy running the Executive branch of the Reich, while His Grace controlled the Legislative branch. Though being a personal friend of His Grace allowed the two branches to work in cohesion, the men and women that made up the Reich Interior Ministry, the Judaical Branch had a habit of making things difficult at times...

No matter. Straightening his tunic as his limousine neared it's destination he took one more glance over his companion. Kimberly Hasmik was her name. A pretty young red head with bright green eyes, an agent of the Foreign Ministry. She would step in and handle delicate situations Strife's general disposition would not allow him to, as well as smooch up to their hosts. She was dressed formally like Strife, but in a civilian dress rather than Strife's military dress. As their limo rolled to a stop, Strife nodded to her as he fixed his cap and stepped out.

"Greetings. In the name of the Tocrowkian Reich."

Pennautier, an intellectual already uncomfortable around the excessive displays of militarism that had been brought forth, forced a smile, and stepped forward first, extending a hand in greeting. Behind him, Eldegaard and d'Armance watched with reserved smiles, but made no effort to step forward as Pennautier had. And neither would they, for differing reasons. Pennautier ventured a carefully worded greeting, "Welcome to our country, Herr Piett." His french accent was subtle in his foreign accent, mostly with regards to the lilting of the ends of his words. "I doubt we need to waste breath on introductions, as we have been properly briefed on who you are, and I assume you know who we are-"

"Yes, welcome, we are glad to have you here," interrupted d'Armance, her accent notable. "I do hope your travels were comfortable?" Her gaze only briefly passed across the scar on the High Chancellors forehead, and she briefly wondered how he had earned it. His military dress and seemingly laconic nature suggested that he had seen combat, but of course it was an uncertainty. She also noted Pennautier's discomfort, and it's effect on the interaction.

Strife nodded and took Pennautier's hand into a firm handshake. "Quite right. It's an honor, Jean-Luc. And yes, my travels were very comfortable." He made a show of stretching his back. "I must admit though it is good to be on my feet again." He looked over the entourage that greeted him and gave them a small, but neutral smile as Kimberly stepped out of the limo behind him. "Allow me to introduce Kimberly Hasmik. She's from the foreign ministry, here to assist me in these talks." the young woman gave a polite node and curtsied. "It's an honor to be here." she assured her hosts. The Tocrowkians took a glance around their surroundings, nodding in approval.

"Very nice. Looks like a scene from a postcard, to be honest. I like it." Strife said.

"You flatter us. The chateux hasn't even been repainted. You must excuse any chaos, the entire event was thrown together," lied Eldegaard. "If you enjoy sporting activities, Monsieur Piett, a number of officers will be heading out on a hunting trip tomorrow. For now, however, I suggest we all move inside for tea. If it pleases our guests, of course."

D'Armance felt that the Minister was being a bit over the top, but said nothing. She was the first to return the curtsy with a shallow bow, a bit belated. "We do have wonderful tea here, but if you prefer as I do the coffee," she blundered her words, literally translating from French instead of speaking properly, "we have that as well."

"I might just take you up on that." Piett said in response to the hunting trip. Memories washed through Piett's head of him as a young teenager hunting elk in the Brutus mountains with his father. He licked his lips slightly at the memory of the greasy elk meat made even better by the knowledge he had killed it him self. "But yes. Tea sounds nice..but I prefer coffee.." Strife said as he waved Kimberly along behind him into the building.

"Tea for me, thanks." Kimberly said, perhaps to be noticeably in contrast to Strife which he did not mind in the least. His usual aids claimed to like what he liked, do what he did and say yes to everything he suggested. He liked it when people were different from one another.

Eldegaard led to procession inside and towards the salon. The inside of the chateux had recently been repainted, and painting lined the walls, ranging in size from a massive modern landscape done of the valley during the winter (http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/UNDComrade/Yanitaria/SouthernYanitaria.jpg) from a neighboring mountain, to a small romantic piece of a glorious hero surveying his castle courtyard from a balcony. All of the furniture was obviously extremely old, but extremely well preserved, from the days when the chateux was the playground of some noble family or another during the summer.

The salon was painted a calming light blue, with a huge window through which one could see part of the other mountain, the hills, and part of the window. The idyllic landscape had but one reminder of military force, the camp by which the artillery had been placed. Eldegaard beckoned everyone to have a seat, and three servants, who had been discretely warned by the military officers via ear piece, brought trays out laden with tea time snacks, smoking materials, and tea cups. Immediately as everyone sat down, the drinks were being poured, coffee for Piett and Tea for Hasmik, with out having to ask them what they wanted. They also made a point of serving their guests first, and then the Yanitarian representatives.

"Before we begin, is there anything specific you'd like to have brought out for you?" Eldegaard asked, with a small smile.

Strife shook his head. "Nein. It is all wonderful, thank you." He said, looking around the building. It was beautiful to say the very least. Of course there were such vistas in the Tocrowkian Reich, but Strife found that being in a foreign nation made the sights more...exotic maybe? He wasn't sure of how to put how he felt into words. He liked it none the less. Strife took a cigarette and a muffin and of course his coffee and reclined into a chair, Kimberly taking a seat near him.

"I must once again thank you for your hospitality." Strife said, taking a sip of his coffee, enjoying the feeling of the warm liquid moving down his throat. "You must come to the Tocrowkian Reich sometime in the future, so we may repay the favor." Kimberly mentioned, which made Strife nod in agreement.

OOC: Edited the name in my last post. I forgot that your Chancellor's name was Strife, and I put that as Kim's last name. Also, I am not sure if it was a period of isolationism, in this post, so feel free to correct me, and I'll edit it.

"With luck, indeed," nodded Pennautier, adding milk to his coffee and stirring it thoroughly before taking a sip.

Eldegaard nodded, preparing her tea before moving onto business. "Monsieur Piett, we would like to know a bit more on Tocrowkian foreign policy. We haven't been able to find much about it, due to your countries period of isloationism, and I am personally most curious. We would especially like to hear about your nation's policy on imperialism and warfare."

((OOC: It's fine. =) ))

Strife carefully considered his answer for a moment before he replied. Kimberly doubtlessly would have handled it better, but Eldegaard had asked him. He took one more sip of his coffee before he finally replied. "The Reich of course, like every other nation in the world it seems retains a large military as well as WMD stocks. We do not often wage aggressive warfare unless we believe our culture, or the world to be at stake such as our wars against the Corporate Alliance." He said, taking a pause. "On the issue of imperialism. The Reich of course is always looking for new lands in which to settle and expand the Nordic race but we try not to acquire them through aggressive means. Rather, we prefer to set up colonies on unsettled landmasses, or areas not entirely settled by other nations."

Pennautier and Eldegaard subtly cringed at the mention of the "Nordic race". Racism was extremely common in Yanitaria, mostly directed towards the Norwegian speaking Yanitariens by the French speaking Arkadians and the Prussian minority. D'Armance, on the other hand, being of the nobility, curled slightly the edges of her mouth. The idea of was quite amusing to her.

To both of them, d'Armance said, "Yanitaria has a similar policy, however, due to our close relations with several nations, we often lend the threat of military intervention. For instance, a few months ago Yanitarian troops were deployed to Neo-Ixania, as part of a massive multi-national effort, successfully deterring a blatant invasion which had no real Casus Belli. More recently, we have joined the Fedala Accord, a newer alliance than NATO or APOC, which focuses less on war and more on trade. It is the hope of the Accord that by our example, wars that occur at the drop of the hat will become a thing of the past. Although we do have a Fedalan Rapid Reaction Force, and we do promise protection to our members, it is by no means an aggressive alliance.

"On imperialism, la Yanitarie usually expands peacefully, although on occasion we have had to put down existing insurrections. We much prefer colonizing already inhabited lands, as it allows us to use the existing infrastructure. It's much more cost effective, which is very important, but sometimes, unfortunately, the existing population must be... relocated."

Stride had been on the edge of replying, but stopped him self when he noticed Kimberly nodding sagely in agreement. "The Reich has experienced similar scenarios and acted accordingly." She assumed the Reich's methods were at least similar to Yanitaria's, though the Reich might have been quicker to resort to more violent methods to quell any local uprisings. She didn't know for sure, so she wisely decided to make no mention of it. "The Reich is currently not a member of any international alliance, save for SNOWPEC. Our period of isolationism has left us rather alone on the international stage, unfortunately."

OOC: I thought SNOWPEC was a joke.

"Of course we would highly suggest the Fedala Accord as a means by which reenter the international spotlight, but of course proselytizing does belong at the diplomatic table," remarked Eldegaard. "For now we ought to move onto the topic of economic systems. Yanitaria has a mixed economy based on the works of the 19th century Yanitarian political activist Katrine Hugo. Most major industries have at least one large socially owned company, while the government does require high taxes, and levies them based on earnings per annum, so that the poorest do not pay taxes at all. Medical health care is guaranteed by our constitution, and is considered a basic human right, however, in some colonies, it is sometimes simply far too expensive to bring the people's health care needs up to first-world standards.

"And although it is not entirely on topic, we dedicate a large portion of our budget to the military, like you said, 'seemingly like every country in the world,'" she continued. "Our military is entirely professional, and operates on the precept that quality is better than quantity. As far as trade goes, our major trading partners are through the Fedala Accords, as it is usually cheaper do to the lack of trade barriers, and the ability for Yanitarian companies to work overseas with out any further restrictions. However, we do conduct trade with many countries outside the Accord, most in the arms industry, through which we have a rather profitable Company, Yanitarian Arms, which, through taxation, subsidizes a good portion of our welfare systems."

((OOC: Sorry for the delay. I kinda spaced it out yesterday))

"We also operate a mixed economic system. We are not so foolish as to operate an absolute capitalist economy. Those countries that do are obviously ruled by men that haven't worked a day in their lives. Like you, we also have high tax rates in order to provide our population with basic needs. Health care, education and a public transit system to name them." Strife said, just about finishing up his coffee by now. "It is good to know that are nations share such similar ideals. I'm sure that in time, our peoples can become great friends."

Servants stood at the ready behind the guests, keeping a respectful distance, but waiting to refresh the tea cups. Pennautier, the first to finish completely, beckoned one over, before letting out a gentle sigh. He was a bit more confident than in the beginning of the meeting, and his two associates obviously picked up on that. It would not due for the one most skilled in languages to work at anything less than 100%. "Indeed, I am sure that our nations will exist wonderfully together," he said, waiting for his cup to fill before adding sugar.

Eldegaard nodded, before suggesting, "Perhaps we ought to discuss some sort of trade agreement first. We are willing to offer Tocrowkian 'Equivalent Nationality.' What that means is, under Yanitarian law, any part of a Tocrowkian company operating in Yanitaria will only be taxed as a Yanitarian company, and will be given the same rights and privileges. This will also apply to all Tocrowkian citizens working for those companies with in our borders, provided they have the necessary papers. Additionally, we are willing to allow Tocrowkian citizens travel through Yanitaria with only some form of national identification. We do not have a problem with terrorists, so we can be lenient on this. Finally, we will lend national financial assistance to Tocrowkian citizens wishing to attend Yanitarian universities, same as Yanitarian citizens. All of this, of course, in return for reciprocal treatment, should you find it satisfactory. And as always, we are open to alternative or additional suggestions."

"As an agent of the Reich Foreign Ministry, I find that offer to be most acceptable." Kimberly stated. "I would like to elaborate a bit on the trade agreement though. I presume you mean free trade, with no restrictions? I feel that such a pact would be most lucrative for both of our countries..." She trailed off, leaving her hosts with the chance to answer.

"As an agent of the Reich Foreign Ministry, I find that offer to be most acceptable." Kimberly stated. "I would like to elaborate a bit on the trade agreement though. I presume you mean free trade, with no restrictions? I feel that such a pact would be most lucrative for both of our countries..." She trailed off, leaving her hosts with the chance to answer.

"No, not quite," answered Eldegaard, "you see, Yanitaria is somewhat restrictive on it's own companies, in terms of what they can and can't do. For instance, not but three weeks ago a company was liquidated and it's assets sold off to pay reparations for failing to bring it's safety and pollution standards up to an acceptable level. Additionally, many programs the government runs are funded entirely by corporate taxes, and so we could not release foreign companies into our market entirely unrestricted. Aside from tax and legal issues, the lack of restrictions would allow them an unfair advantage in our market. What we can do is treat your nation's companies as if they were Yanitarian companies, and not tax or restrict them further than what we would tax our own companies."

"I see. Well none the less, that sounds agreeable. My superiors will confirm the deal once I report back to them." Kimberly replied dutifully. She would have argued for more rights for Tocrowkian corporations, but part of diplomacy was learning when to and when not to argue a point. And she did not want to alienate potential allies by being too aggressive. "Perhaps now that the formalities are out of the way, I would be interested in learning more about your nation." Strife said with a small smile.

"Of course. As you already know, Yanitaria primarily speaks French and Norwegian. The two ethnic majorities, les Yanitariens and les Arcadiens, the latter of whom are more commonly known as the Arkadíans," started Pennautier, speaking confidently with in his comfort zone of knowledge. "The Yanitarians are Norwegian speaking, and some of the original inhabitants who originally pushed the Jagites out of what is today our nation. Around the 11th century C.E., the Arkadians invaded from northern Corbournne, establishing a catholic monarchy, with the help of Prussian mercenaries from what is today The People's Freedom and The Golden Empire of the Maccabees. It was during this time that, through the advances of science and the inquisitions of the church that the Yanitarian majority grew increasingly secular, and the ideas of Yanitarian Socialism, which eventually led to the 1840's manuscript by Katherine Hugo, The Yanitarian Socialist. In November of 1980, Yanitaria erupted in revolt, and overthrew the monarchy, with the leader of the revolt putting in place measures to restore the monarchy under his son after his death, thus creating a socialist-friendly monarchy, and preserving Arkado-Yanitarian tradition." He paused breifly to think, before saying, "Is there anything specifically you would like to know? I minored in Cultural Sciences in university."

((OOC: Sorry for the late post. My computer is retarded and didn't alert me that you had.))

Strife and Kimberly listened. Strife's expression was difficult to read, as he kept his usual stone-like expression. Kimberly was easier to read however. In contrast to Strife she had lead a fairly comfortable life. No experience in combat, no having seen her friends die in front of her eyes, and no disfiguring scars...she seemed genuinely interested. She did flinch a bit at the mention of The Peoples' Freedom. The Tocrowkians regarded the TPFians as an inferior race, mostly because they had the nerve to dub their nation a 'Reich'.

"No, no that is quite enough. Fascinating, and I never use that term lightly..." Kim said.

OOC: No problem.

Pennautier caught the twitch when he mentioned TPF, and thought about it for a second. Strife's earlier mention of the Nordic race came back to him, with a racial sensitivity that only a Yanitarian could muster. He sensed that there was some vague connection, but it didn't entirely make sense to him. It would have to be filed away for later, for future study, especially if he were to be assigned to any diplomatic position centered around the Tocrowkian Reich.

After a short pause, during which he had a not-so-subtle look of confusion and thought about him, he snapped back. Reminding himself of politeness, he said, "If you wouldn't mind, my major area of study is culture and linguistics, and I would like to hear a bit about yours."

"Well of course being an agent of the Foreign Ministry, I've had to have not only an in-depth knowledge of other cultures but my own. If it's all right with you High Chancellor, I'll take this?" She asked, receiving a curt nod from Strife in response. Kimberly cleared her voice before she began. "The First Tocrowkian Reich was founded in 962 AD. Before it, the Tocrowkian people were mostly divided into nomadic tribes and clans. That was until a significantly powerful tribe, lead by warlord Assair Emmerich waged a war of unification. Naming him self emperor, the First Reich was ruled by Assair's descendants until 1602. Years of political in fighting among the royal family weakened it's grip and soon the empire collapsed, and the Reich was destroyed, divided into city states."

Kim too a breath to steady her self as she continued the story. "For some time the Tocrowkian continent was divided among city-states until the Stewardess of Pharamas, Jaina Mahone was able to gain control of the entire continent. This brought about the rise of the current Tocrowkian Reich. A quick note on the title of Steward/Stewardess is was that it was originally used for who ever was left in charge of the Emperor's throne while he was away, thus the name 'Steward'. However since then it has developed into a title worthy of equal respect and stature within our nation."

OOC: Sorry for the short post, but there isn't much you can add to this sort of question.

"But will it?" asked Pennautier.

((OOC: Will it what?))

OOC: Become a title with the same respect and stature as the emperor.

"In our nation, yes. It bares the same reverence and majesty of any imperial title." She nodded. "However, sadly, I doubt many nations in the world even know what 'Steward' means..." Kim lamented.

Eldegaard and Pennautier nodded to each other, while d'Armance folded her arms. Eldegaard spoke after the brief moment of silence. "You see, since the revolution, and reestablishment of a Yanitarian king, Frederik Norheim II, there has been some tension over his legitimacy. The House of Norheim dates back to the original kingdoms of the Yanitaria, but legally he has a tenative claim to nobility. If he were to... associate himself with a noblewoman, it would add legitimacy to the House, and thus to him."

Though Strife still looked indifferent, he shifted a bit in his seat but still let Kimberly do the talking. After all, this was her job. "What are you suggesting, exactly?"

Pausing with discomfort towards the topic, Eldegaard spoke, "We are suggesting that perhaps the noble families of our king and your steward should share a bond of marriage. A member of your Steward's noble family would join our royal family. In exchange, we would not only be willing to be more indulgent of any future transgressions on the part of Tocrowkian companies in Yanitaria, which of course might inevitably come up, but we would also be more willing to support Tocrowkian entrance into the Fedala Accord, which would open many doors in the areas of trade and such. Also, Yanitaria does export some fine military goods. We would be willing to pass on blue prints, and technology."

"But of course, we could always find another noble family," added d'Armance, who had previously been silent. She obviously did not like where the conversation had led, a testament to the overt racism laying just beneath the surface of Yanitarian politics.

OOC: The Fedala thing is actually irrelevant. I have already voted. I am not sure if there is a rule about talking about the voting though.

((OOC: Hm?))

Strife thought for a moment before replying. "While of course I will have to ask His Grace about the matter, I do know his family is interested in marrying off their youngest daughter, Valeria Mahone (http://www.nswiki.net/index.php?title=Valeria_Mahone). She has four thousand years of pure Nordic blood running through her veins, perhaps she would make a good match for your king?" Strife had some doubts though. For one thing, being a good friend of the Steward him self, he knew Valeria was very spoiled from living such a sheltered, privileged life. And she was rather young, not even twenty. However he wasn't too judge.

OOC: I mean that I have already voted for or against you on the Fedala boards. So the IC promise isn't really relevent, since either way I have already cast my vote. However I am not sure if it's against the rules to tell you how I voted, although it's probably pretty obvious.

"Of course. We will defer to your judgment on this matter," said Eldegaard. "For now, the only thing we would like to cover is the establishment of diplomatic missions, and consulates. If you have anything you would like to discuss, we can cover that first. Afterwards, we will have someone show you to your rooms, and leave you with a list of events you may be interested in."

"The only thing that comes to mind right now is embassies. I'd like some of the requirements and restrictions your nation imposes on Embassy staff so we can begin the exchange in a timely matter. I believe we have discussed everything other important matter at this point." Kim replied, her voice containing an obvious chirp now that the meeting had, so gar, gone well. Strife gave a small smile as he once again reclined and let Kim do the talking.

D'Armance pulled up five copies of a list, and handed them out. "As you can see, there aren't many restrictions. 40 armed personnel, one APC, one helicopter, one sea worthy vessel. Nothing too barbaric as weaponry, we do have some standards. You may choose what city you want your embassy in, although Yanitaria is generally a popular choice. Within that city you may choose which district."

Luckily Kimberly was of high enough ranking that she didn't have to report back to the Foreign Ministry. Rather, she simply nodded and said. "This sounds acceptable. Of course, we would like to place our embassy in Yanitaria. I'll name our ambassador at a later date, as soon as I find just the right one." Kim flipped through the list one more time to make sure, and simply nodded and put the list on her lap when she was done.

Eldegaard nodded, before saying "We have already chosen an Ambassador and a Deputy minister, but as for our consular appointments, we are still creating a list. We would like to, of course, know the restrictions placed on our embassy in Tocrowkia."

Kimberly handed him a copy of the Embassy Guidelines (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=567551). "Here you are. I trust you will find them just acceptable as he have founds yours." she remarked. It was honestly more of a tactic, but she hid it well. Kim had been trained to use her words to her advantage, and by reminding someone the Reich had granted them a favor or what have you, they were more likely to accept what was asked of them.

Eldegaard read over the guidelines, nodding before calling over an army regular. Frowning, she asked, "Quel est le calibre de votre pistolet?"

The army regular, answered with out a pause, "Madame, c'est dix milimetre."

She waved her hand, "D'accord," before turning to Kim, and saying "we may have a problem with one issue, but it is a very minor one. Our soldiers use the ten by..."

"Vingt trois, Madame," whispered the regular under his breath.

"Yes, the ten by twenty-three Yanitarian bullet. There is only a milimeter of difference in the design, though..." She allowed her voice to trail off.

OOC: Not trying to bust on you for using a legitimate tactic. I really do use a less powerful version of the 10mm Auto.

Kimberly sighed. "If you'd like, we can provide security for your embassy, armed with the weapons of the millimeter we desire. But I doubt that'd be acceptable...still, I'm sorry. I doubt I can make an exception. My apologies once more."

"Surely it's not an insurmountable obstacle?" asked Eldegaard, before being interrupted by the soldier. He politely interjected something in French, and took a moment to explain it. Eldegaard nodded, and the soldier called over an officer, who greeted her in French. The two soldiers had a brief, extremely formal conversation, before they seemed to suggest a fourth party was needed.

"One moment, please, they are calling an armourer who might have a suggestion," said d'Armance.

After a minute or two, a smartly dressed officer entered the room, saluted, and waited for his salute to be returned. The original officer returned the salute, and informally asked the officer in Norwegian a question. The second officer nodded, and started explaining something. Finally, the first officer stopped him, and in French spoke to Eldegaard, while nodding his head.

Eldegaard asked the second officer a question, which he answered, before turning to their guests. "Are you familiar with the... 7.65mm Parabellum? As I am told, it is the parent cartridge of the 9mm Parabellum, but is not a 7.65mm bullet. As I am told, cartridges are often given a name that doesn't really correspond to their actual caliber. Perhaps we could label all rounds going to the Tocrowkian diplomatic embassy as the 9mm Ambassadorial Cartridge? It's only a milimeter of inaccuracy, and surely the reasons for establishing the 9mm rule are so that should embassy staff turn hostile their rounds aren't as lethal as larger ones. I am not a military person, but perhaps 1mm isn't too much of a difference?"

((OOC: Sorry for the delay...again))

"I suppose not...it's not like the millimeter would make that much of a difference, should something happen..." She mused. She looked toward Strife, who gave a curt nod, and she turned back to face them. "The High Chancellor and my self agree to your request, then."

"Well, then," said Eldegaard. "I see that we have reached an agreement. At this point, servants will show you to your room, and answer any questions you may have. Or, if you have any questions or concerns, you may voice them now."

OOC: No problem, this part of the RP is about done.

"I believe that is enough for now." Strife said with a yawn, stretching his muscles. Kimberly instantly continued. "Please excuse the High Chancellor. I'm sure he's just tired from the flight, and the drive here. We haven't been able to stretch or anything for several hours, so some rest would probably be good..."