NationStates Jolt Archive

(OOC: Oops forgot to say in the title that this thread is INVITE ONLY.)

To call the Parilisan government busy would be a terrible understatement; the Parilisan government was swarming, seething and generally panicking amidst the chaos thrown up by the apparently approaching conflict. Posters were streaming from the publications office demanding recruitment and preparation from attack. The EDC was constantly busy with meetings and defence preparations. The secretaries of various departments had come together to produce several documents for both the civilians and soldiers of the country.

President Klein was not scared of war, if that was what it came to. He had been a soldier, a leader, a hero of the Parilisan Revolutionary Army and he was not afraid to lead again. Fear gripped him, however, at the idea that the day would soon come when he would once again take the role of cannon feeder, hurling the young men and women of his beloved nation to their deaths. But that was in the future and right now he had a chance to avoid a war.

He was ready. He was prepared to go in there and argue his case, a case which he knew to be completely right and justified. He was going to deliver a rant against the needless aggression of that savage nation which would convince even the barbarian’s allies not to back them. He would defend Parilisa, ODECON, freedom and the very idea of national sovereignty from moronic militancy.

The train from Brittanican Adenia was here in Exengrad, stationed on an especially large track for some of Parilisa’s biggest trains. From one of the carriages you could see down the slope of the hill on which the station stood into the city of Exengrad, where the wreckage of an office block could be seen standing amongst the tall pillars of skyscrapers.

OOC: Over to BA to describe the train. The then meeting can begin.

Over 200 tonnes of high-quality steel, aluminium, iron and exotic materials sat at ease by the platform. It had taken the best part of a week to prepare the train for transport, and another 2 days to get it back onto the rails in time for the conference - and the checks were nearly complete.

Steam wafted lazily from the stack, the pistons occasionally releasing pressure. On the platform, a specialist tender vehicle topped up the water levels, deionised water being used to maximise the life of the engine, and ensure that it was always performing to it's best. Around it, engineers and staff made their frantic way to and from the nearest building, bringing in linen, food, drinks of the finest quality.

The train was streamlined to the extreme; resembling the Henschel-Wegmann train of Nazi Germany in the mid-1930's (by the Universal Calender), she was a curved, sleek locomotive, the pinnacle of engineering, and capable of almost 150mph and holding it. Tenders had been placed along the network in Parilisa to cater for her - naturally, steam trains had the unfortunate aspect of being rather less efficient than their diesel and electric counterparts, though the romance was the key to Adenian culture. In Brunswick Green with cream-and-brown carriages, the train symbolised efficiency of German design, but with the romance that could only stem from the British heritage of Adenia.

The train hauled 9 carriages on this occasion, more than it's usual 5. 2 Support Staff Carriages, containing bed and board for security staff as well as the train's own complement. Sparse but comfortable, satellite television and other mod cons were on hand.

The restaurant car was next. The professional chefs and fully-equipped freezer and larder allowed the finest food to be served, and the wide gauge of Adenian railways allowed for wide aisles and larger tables, giving a more comfortable and exclusive experience.

The saloon car was dominated by the baby grand piano at one end, and was served by it's own waiter well-educated in cigars and spirits. Thick leather armchairs faced the windows, and copies of international newspapers were laid on the tables. The pianist was practising his scales, the soft tinkling of the piano ringing through the carriage.

The sleeper cars for the diplomats had thick beds, with choices of linen, pillows, and had a shower and sink within their compartment. Single-berth, they were converted to mobile offices during the day as the delegates went to their breakfast in the restaurant car.

The conference car was truly the tech-centre of the locomotive. Satellite link-ups, blackout curtains, projectors, and plug-in facilities for most electronic devices allowed the car to serve any purpose, whether diplomatic or internal functions.

The panorama car, with it's large curved rear window and thick leather seats, was compartments up to half-way along it's length, suitable for quiet reading, private conversations and discussions. The rear half was large, three-quarter-length windows, with more in the roof of the carriage, flooding it with natural light and ensuring an amazing all-around view.

The crew finished their arrangements: tables were laid, stocks replenished, antique wooden humidors polished to a mirror shine. Changing into their uniforms, the exclusive society of the Executive Train Transit Establishment looked pristine in their burgundy uniforms and overalls. Banter faded as they prepared to greet their guests, who would undoubtedly be arriving soon. The water tender vacated the platform as the cleaners arrived, clearing the platform of debris. The crew lined up outside the locomotive, each team outside their carriage, the Train Commander resplendent in his silver braid standing proudly at the end from which the visitors would approach. His ceremonial cane was pitch black, the silver ball at the handle shined to perfection. Spotting his reflection in his shoes, he adjusted his cap and nodded to his crew. They were babysitting one of the most important conferences ever held under the auspices of Adenian officials (though the Parilisans were officially hosting and overseeing the conference, the Adenian train meant that to him, it may as well be in Adenia itself), and he would make sure every whim was catered to.

ooc: Parilisa could I join this? WH asked me to, but I am asking you as well, as this is your thread. I am not in the CIN, but if this goes to war you dont have to think hard to guess whos side Im taking...

OOC: Aye, Sutufinai is entering into a Mutual Defense Pact with TWH... So, May I join in? lol Sorry. Now I'm flooding your thread. =(

OOC: Sutufinai, I lol'd. Mutual, huh?

OOC: Yeah, definitely "Mutual". ...

"Give me a month and a half, I'll get my military moblized... And then start the four week voyage across to your nation via steamship!"

OOC: Sutu & Nach are welcome to join the thread.

Blachernae Palace Complex
Constantinopolis Secundus, New Chalcedon.
Three days ago.

The Blachernae Complex, once the favourite retreat of former Emperor Michael VI, had been transformed into a complex to house high-ranking refugees from those parts of the Empire that the former Emperor had asserted his rule over.

One such was the Grand Duke of Novoa Athinai, Teodoros Komnenos, who had been chased out of his city by the garrison, with the loss of life of many people. But now he had something to do whilst the civil war raged on....represent the Empire at a peace conference. As a long-time aficonado of international politics, he recalled the situation, and had advised the Empress to cut the Wolf Hold loose, despite the WDC mercenaries currently helping to support her claim to the throne. And he was a noted skeptic of the CIN, seeing it as a flabby, undisciplined and ineffectual alliance, although his respect for various individual members was pronounced.

Parilisa
Present Time.

It had been something of a hazardous journey - the jetliner's fighter escort had twice had to intercept enemy aircraft, but the Grand Duke was in Parilisa at last, awaiting the train's arrival so the conference could begin.

OOC: The train is actually at the platform, so I'll RP as if you had just arrived. If it's okay Parilisa, I'll assume my diplomats arrived with the train, and are chatting with yours in the Saloon over a glass of Whiskesian whisky. Parilisa can pick up the next one, 'cause I CBA.

The man was, as far as the roster was concerned, unmistakeable.

"Grand Duke Komnenos?" The Commandant began. "Welcome to the River. If you'll kindly follow me, I'll escort you to the Saloon car. We currently have some delegates already on board. Thompson, Kettersly, see to his staff."

Opening the door with a flourish, another guard gestured for the Grand Duke to enter. The floor was a deep red carpet, thick enough to begin to sink into. The Grand Duke would be taken through the restaurant car, waitresses in spotless uniforms standing stiffly to one side as they passed. The Commandant gave them a polite nod as he made his way through, following the Grand Duke. Guards opened the doors for them as they entered the saloon car, the tinklings of a piano wafting down the carriage, and where the Adenian and Parilisan delegates were engaged in animated conversation.

The Adenian delegate was a venerable man of 62, Arthur Lordens-Owenson, a product of the most prestigious Public School in Adenia - Hardenborough College. Charging an inordinate amount for a term, the school churned out the majority of politicians and diplomats for the hallowed halls of parliament and the various overseas missions. With more than a liking for the finer whiskies, his laughs were loud and jolly as the Parilisan diplomat told a joke.

Nicephorus Tzetzes soon arrived at the station with his staff. He was an experianced diplomat and so it was natural that he would be the one the Emperor would appoint to try and sort out this mess. He and his staff were clearly distinguishable as Osean diplomats, with their dress and mannerisms clearly showing them as being well educated and very important. The ambassador was in an irritable mood concerning the whole affair but he did his best to hide it as he went to the train.

OOC: The train is actually at the platform, so I'll RP as if you had just arrived. If it's okay Parilisa, I'll assume my diplomats arrived with the train, and are chatting with yours in the Saloon over a glass of Whiskesian whisky.

The man was, as far as the roster was concerned, unmistakeable.

"Grand Duke Komnenos?" The Commandant began. "Welcome to the River. If you'll kindly follow me, I'll escort you to the Saloon car. We currently have some delegates already on board. Thompson, Kettersly, see to his staff."

Opening the door with a flourish, another guard gestured for the Grand Duke to enter. The floor was a deep red carpet, thick enough to begin to sink into. The Grand Duke would be taken through the restaurant car, waitresses in spotless uniforms standing stiffly to one side as they passed. The Commandant gave them a polite nod as he made his way through, following the Grand Duke. Guards opened the doors for them as they entered the saloon car, the tinklings of a piano wafting down the carriage, and where the Adenian and Parilisan delegates were engaged in animated conversation.

The Adenian delegate was a venerable man of 62, Arthur Lordens-Owenson, a product of the most prestigious Public School in Adenia - Hardenborough College. Charging an inordinate amount for a term, the school churned out the majority of politicians and diplomats for the hallowed halls of parliament and the various overseas missions. With more than a liking for the finer whiskies, his laughs were loud and jolly as the Parilisan diplomat told a joke.

President Klein struggled not to laugh at his own joke. He had a wit and charisma lacking from many politicians, and he saw it as incredibly foolish to laugh at one's own joke. There was no denying the hilarity of his comment, and the merry laughter of Mr Lordens-Owenson was contagious. There was something about the Adenian which put his nerves to rest a little; perhaps the presence of some kind of ally was simply reassuring in itself.

The President greeted Komnenos as soon as he saw him. His nation was another potential ally at this conference; although they were supposedly an ally of The Wolf Hold they had argued for a diplomatic solution to the conflict whilst the rest of the world seemed to be leaping to arms. Any country who took such an approach was worthy of the President's respect.

OOC: OK, there's no need for everyone to post an arrival. Everyone after this post should presume they're already there.

Arthur caught sight of the Osean through the window, and mumbled an apologetic greeting, before meeting him at the door. He bowed in the fashion prevalent in Adenian politics, a deep, graceful arc, one hand sweeping behind and to the side.

"Mister Tzetzes, a pleasure and an honour. I trust our humble mode of transport will be suitable for the day's....festivities? Perhaps you'd like to see more, the Commandant is currently addressing the engineers."

Tzetzes would observe, as he looked in the distance, a man dressed in a uniform of finery most noblemen could only dream of, a burgundy uniform with silver braiding, a polished cane and shoes that you could see your face in addressing two men in similar uniforms at the front of the locomotive.

Lt. General Jake Novacek of the Oseaton Federal Army, slowly made his way to the Saloon Car, leaving his aide in one of the sleeper cars. The long trip from Oseato had caused him to gain a headache, and he doubted whether the day's discussions would do anything to help sooth his headache.

As he sat down in one of the leather chairs, Jake observed all those around him. He felt sorely outclassed, even in his black uniform. This was not his first diplomatic assignment, but the level of power in the room was evident. He tried his best to stay out of the way for the time being and to enjoy the nice view outside the windows.

“A delegate from the CIS, I believe?” said Klein, from somewhere behind the Oseaton. “I apologise for not knowing your name, I have had little time to do the research I would normally do for a meeting like this. Still, this is much more relaxed than I thought it would be. The Adenians have excelled themselves once again in their taste for luxury and quality.”

The man was obviously a soldier of some kind, but he seemed to be quite shy, and Klein was keen to get talking to him. Knowing how diplomats worked was essential for a gathering such as this; it was surprising how many decisions were made based on personality and preference rather than strategy and tact. Presenting himself to this nervous man as a kind and considerate person would lead him t like him, and if the man liked him it would be easier to influence him.

The Nachmerian representative, General Adam Tork appeared. He was wearing the uniform of the Nachmerian armored corps, and he didn’t look too happy. He was a massive man, not too tall at 6 feet but very wide. Nachmere usually didn’t send military men on such assignments, but President Ginger knew Tork from their military service and trusted him more than any of the smooth talkers in the minister of foreign affairs. Ginger also wanted to show the military side more than the diplomatic side of his country.

Two steps behind him was a young captain, also wearing the uniform of the armored corps, and looking very curious about the new place. He hasn’t been able to go abroad for the past 8 years because of his service. He wondered if he would have time to meet some girls.

Tzetzes allowed himself a small smile before replying "The feeling is mutual, Mister Owenson". He looked at the train before continuing "I'm sure it will be more than suitable and, yes, I would like to see more of it".

"Excellent, excellent. Come, come, we'll see if the man will give us the whirlwind tour, perhaps!" Owenson began walking toward the front of the train, his quick step belying his years. "I trust your trip was comfortable? I've never really appreciated flying myself, but it serves the purpose, I suppose."

The Commandant was busying himself with the engineers, the pre-travel reports washing over him. It was simply to look busy if nothing else. "Yes, yes, that will do..." he waved them off, the engineers immediately rushing back to the locomotive and the warmth of the firebox.

"Ah, Mister Owenson. You must be...Mister Tzetzes, yes? I take it Mister Owenson has foisted the tour upon you?" A short laugh, before he launched into a routine that he had obviously been through hundreds of times.

"Well, this is the River. She was originally designed by Henschel and Wegmann, back in the 1930's going by the Universal Calender. Groundbreaking in her day - and still really groundbreaking now - she was capable of over 120mph when she was first built. This is a later model, built in Adenia - she's lighter, more efficient, and inevitably faster. I've been sat in the firebox as this glorious machine hit 150mph and held it for nearly 30 miles! Fantastic!" He swung his cane, his enthusiasm evident.

"She's the lap of luxury, Mister Tzetzes, you'll be most comfortable I'm sure." He entered at the restaurant car, etiquette demanding he avoided taking the diplomat through the staff cars. He took the diplomat down to the Panorama car, taking great care to direct the diplomat's gaze to the rubble down below them, before bringing him back to the Saloon, before spying the Nachmerian "diplomat" appear on the platform. Making his goodbyes, he left the silvertongues to their own devices.

The Commandant was a very observant man. One did not get into the position of running the nation's most expensive vehicles without being observant. So when General Tork appeared, wearing a military uniform of all things, the Commandant was understandably aware that this man was not a diplomat.

He approached with his cane tapping impatiently at his feet, all 5'10" of him puffed up.

"And you are?"

----

"I am General Adam Tork, Commander of the 16th Nachmere Army, I was sent to attend this conference by the President of Nachmere.” He gestured at the young captain “This is my personal assistant, Captain Fields.”

"I am General Adam Tork, Commander of the 16th Nachmere Army, I was sent to attend this conference by the President of Nachmere.” He gestured at the young captain “This is my personal assistant, Captain Fields.”

"Army Commander? Well, General, you'll find the saloon car through there. Your assistant will be sleeping in the staff cars at the front of the train. There will be a bunk marked out for him, whenever he should choose to use it, and refreshments and decent food are available. If you'll follow me, General."

He led the way at a quick pace, directing the guard to see to the young Captain Fields, walking him to the staff car. He would be comfortable, though not lavished. He walked through the door first, determined to have the General follow him, rather than the other way around - this man's nation had, after all, been responsible for the deaths of his compatriots. But revenge would come later. Pointing the General into the carriage, he stood stock still as the General found himself a seat.

Teodoros was not slow to make himself known to Mr. Lordens-Owenson, as well as the Parilisian delegate. He sat at the table, with an unobtrusive question about the trade practices of Parilisa in wartime.

The Sutufinai group stood silently aboard the train, However... Sutufinai had sent someone alittle more important than a General. Actually, they had sent a general too... But they had sent three Persons. Vice President Andrew Drikelly (Dry-Kelly) stood with General Hammerzeit (Often just called 'Hammer') and Naval Minister Fairchild.

The Vice President was a thin, shorter Sutfen. He stood at only Six feet four inches, and was of a rather unamazing build. The vice president actually looked rather underweight. He wore a reasonably tailor suit with no tie, it's sleeves were cut short as to keep his fur from being mussied up and his suit pants were cut back to mid-thigh. While his fur was well groomed the modificatiosn to his clothing to allow his canid form to fit might be considered non-businesslike.

Whereas, General Hammer on the otherhand was somewhat 'tall' for a Sutfen at Seven feet eleven inches and looked like he was bending down right before smashing through the roof. His build was sturdy, like must sutfen he was 'thin' more that wide but his muscles were definitely visible as he looked like his arms and legs were wrapped in coiled steel. The General wore what looked to best be described as a conflagration of multiple camouflages ranging from basic OD green to tigerstripe to digital woodland camouflage. He looked like a Private Contractor more than a federal general. In the end however even his clothing was cut down like the Vice President's.

Of the group Naval Minister Fairchild looked the most business like, If horrendously anachronistic, with a finely tailor mid-19th century naval uniform (Think Napoleonic Wars Naval Captain, British or American.) and a all the shiney tassles and such. Though, His uniform was cut like the Vice President's to allow his canid form to fit... It actually looked reasonable on him instead of being an abomination of human clothing so it would fit an Anthro Being.

...

All in all however, despite the General looking like a Great Dane in a Chihuahua's cage, they waited silently and respectively. They showed no offense or anger to any of the assembled, in fact they were most courteous in that they even respectfully stepped out of the way to let guards or train personnel pass with a soft "Sorry" or even "Excuse me for blocking your way."

Ironically of course, in the battle on the seas of Parilisia... The Sutfen had lost the greatest percentage of Naval Personnel and ships in relation to their country's Navy. But they seemed to take it in stride and stay composed.

Tork looked around the car..."Damn" he thought to himself "Its just me and a bunch of suits". He did not like civilians much. He spent the 37 years since he was 13 in some sort of military organization. He commanded tens of thousends of young men and women. He really hated these talks. But President Ginger, or Ray as Tork called him when no one else was around, asked him to do it. Torks hand moved to where his holster usually was, and found nothing there. He felt very naked with out some sort of firearm, but he knew better than to bring a pistol to a diplomatic gathering.

Wolf's General Marcus Fell was pulling on his jet black beret as the car pulled up at the train platform, looking across at Vice-Wolf Marshall Gareth Evans who’s eyes were almost a pitch black, inside that head burnt an anger that only a few of the top brass were privy too. Patting him on the shoulder and motioning for the door. "Lets get on with this, don't worry the bastards will pay for all they have done, now lets go be Wolfs in the hen house." With a smirk Wolf's General Fell stepped out of the car and walked around and opened the door for Evans. He seemed to have warmed up a bit, but for anyone who knew him could tell the anger was still burning deep inside. Marcus decided he would have to be content with that and set of towards the train with Gareth walking beside him, the sharp sound their boots made as they crossed the platform echoed slightly.

Stepping aboard the train, Marcus and Gareth immediately knew saw that they would defiantly stick out among the suits of all the civilians on board the train, mainly for the reason that they were wearing their jet black dress uniforms, with the only forms of colour being the blood red belt they wore around their waist and their rank pins. For Evans they consisted of a running wolf with two crossed swords behind it and for Fell it was the 4 stars of a full general however on each star was a small but detailed wolf's head in gold, in the Wolf Hold's armed forces the prefix of wolf to a persons rank and such additions to their rank pins was a mark of high honour, the 2nd highest that could be bestowed upon an active serving member of The Wolf Hold Armed forces. Alongside the fact that he was one of the greatest soldiers of The Wolf Hold the Longsword Class Super Capital Missile Cruiser that had been sent to the coast of Parilisa that had sparked this whole event had been named after him, giving Gareth a small personnel stake in the matter.

So far Gareth had remained silent, he merely looked over the crowd of people inside the train and through the windows into neighbouring cars. He managed to pick out the large forms of the Sutufinai, the uniform of a Nachmerian general, several representatives of CIS nations and of course the members of ODECONs delegates. the one that drew his attention was a glimpse of the Parilisan president, his anger rising to surface for a second before he calmed himself again, left Marcus with a slightly concerned look for those seconds. However the moment had only taken a few seconds and now Marcus wondered who would spot the instigators of this whole incident first.

Mary Basset paused for a moment in the station to admire the Adenian train where the peace conference was to be held. The Hegemon stepped aboard, sighing as she did so. I'm probably going to be the youngest delegate here, as usual. At least I'm by no means the least powerful official.

Once aboard, she paused to straighten her tie and brush a piece of lint off of her glove. After a moment, content that her appearance was adequate (it was in fact, by the standards of most, far beyond adequate), she continued walking, the three bodygaurds trialing behind her.

The Leistungi delegation shared a feeling of mutual elation, especially in the case of Admiral Junker, the man in command of the battlegroup which heavily damaged the Longsword Class vessel in the brief action around Parilisa. He had later been told that the missile attack had set alight the superstructure, killing his Wolf Holder counterpart, and though he felt a small amount of pity for the man, he could not help but smile as he straightened the Parilisan Action ribbon he had received from his time on board the Sigiswald.

Accompanying the man was the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Federal Republic, a man who seemed to be perpetually smirking. He raised a hand in greeting towards the Adenian delegate standing before the train and glanced around quickly at the groups of diplomats, a number of black-clad men catching his eye first as he identified them as Wolf Holders. Mary Basset appeared to be here as well, her bodyguards towering over her as always. And of course, the Parilisan president, whom Minister Kirsch had not yet had the pleasure of meeting.

The two men and their three federal bodyguards made their way to the train's ramp, exchanging pleasantries with Basset and her delegation as the two groups boarded the car.

"Aha! Minister! Finally, another man worthy of sampling the Adenian delights of aged whiskies and exclusive train travel!"

Owenson was elated to see the Leistungi, the presence of all those "damned army types" was beginning to aggravate him. He bowed deeply, before warmly shaking the man's hand.

"And who is this?" He questioned, motioning toward Ms Bassett. "An honour and a pleasure, ma'am," he said, bowing deeply once more and kissing her hand gently, "to make your acquaintance. Arthur Lordens-Owenson, Senior Ambassador for Her Majesty's Government."

A crafty wink to the Leistungi minister would undoubtedly widen his smirk - a master at lightening a mood, Owenson would inevitably get the conversation flowing and have the trip starting in a "jolly good fashion".

OOC: Nobody said Hi to my peoples. =(

OOC: Nobody said Hi to my peoples. =(

OOC: Just barge in on someone's conversation, it normally works out. That, or cause a ruckus. You'll end up confined to your cabin until the talks, but you'll get noticed :P

OOC: What? have the good General decide he got pissed off by some random guard and have him rip his Limb/Limbs off and spray the General and the cabin he's currently in with blood? xD

Have the General reply, "He felt meh oop. I dunt like bein' felt oop." rofl.

OOC: What? have the good General decide he got pissed off by some random guard and have him rip his Limb/Limbs off and spray the General and the cabin he's currently in with blood? xD

Have the General reply, "He felt meh oop. I dunt like bein' felt oop." rofl.

OOC: Yeah, if you feel like getting shot and then your nation being bankrupted to repay for my precious train carriage's interior ;)

OOC: Psh, we'd have enough silver to pay for it. lol And he'd take the bullet, maybe two or three... Up to five? maybe not...

But then... Since we're travelling 'to the peace conference' and not -in- it... he'd technically just be a Casualty of war. lol

“A delegate from the CIS, I believe?” said Klein, from somewhere behind the Oseaton. “I apologise for not knowing your name, I have had little time to do the research I would normally do for a meeting like this. Still, this is much more relaxed than I thought it would be. The Adenians have excelled themselves once again in their taste for luxury and quality.”
.

Jake was surprised by the voice behind him, though he did not let it show. He set his drink down and turned to face the Parilisan President. He bowed deeply before replying.

"Mr. President. " Novacek said before going on. "Quite correct, I'm here representing The Federation of Oseato, President Hamilton regrets and apologizes for not being able to attend in person, however the Federation is currently engaged in some conflict that requires his attention. I must say this is quite a luxury for a simple soldier such as myself and that it's nice to finally meet you. I've been studying your fascinating country since I was aware I was drawing this assignment."

Jake smiled as he talked, but his mind was elsewhere, sizing up the man in front of him. He seemed shorter than in the pictures that had come with his briefing. He also came across as more friendly than Jake expected at such a conference. It was puzzling, but not troublesomely so. Just then he saw the Wolf Hold delegation and made a mental note to greet them when he was done talking to the Parilisan President.

Komnenos gave Minister Kirsch a chilly if polite look before turning back to Lordens-Owenson, whose opinion on a certain trade policy had been interrupted. Before he got all the way, he spotted the Wolf Hold delegation, who represented the nation that (in his opinion) had started the entire situation, and his chilly look became downright frigid, before he shifted his attention back to Lordens-Owenson.

Odd, for a man representing a nation allied to the Wolf Hold.

Marcus could tell by some of the quick glances thrown at himself and Gareth that they knew who they were and some of them weren’t pleased about it. Un surprisingly non of them greeted their party, he hadn't even expected his allies to great them as the nation they represented actions had directly led to the deaths of hundreds if not thousands of Nachmerians and Sutfen. However such was war and whilst both of the men present felt remorse that so many brave men and women had to die, they knew more then anyone else that thinking over and brooding over such things could only lead to mistakes in the field and losing more men.

Not wanting to stand around any more, the two black-clad men pushed there way through the train cars towards the Sutufinai delegation, of which two of them appeared to be wearing military uniforms. Marcus had to chuckle though, he always had liked the Sutufinai’s unique taste in clothing, Approaching the delegation he raised a hand in greeting, and then speaking in clear Sutfen (a skill more prevalent in the Wolf Hold's Armed Forces by the day) "Hello there, nice train eh?"

Noting that the Wolf Holders were now on the train, and more importantly near the Sutfen, General Tork stood up. He did not wish to speak with the Sutfen, because he knew full well that their casualties in the short fighting originated from the stupidity of the Nachmerian Navy. He did not like the Navy. Or the Air Force. To be exact, he did not trust any unit that did not wake up every morning to prepare its tanks for action.

He walked towards the Wolf Holders, thinking about their uniforms. In Nachmere only the Parliament Guards wore black uniforms. He had to admit the effect was very impressive. His own uniform was olive green, and a black beret was very carefully placed on his head. 4 silver stars gleamed on each of his shoulders. He could never grasp the Wolf Holders rank system, but he assumed both were his superiors. When he was about a meter away from the Wolf Holders and the Sutfen, he stopped. He gave a sharp salute, so unusual in Nachmerian troops outside the armored corps. He than said:
“Hello gentlemen, quite a thick soup of suits here huh’?”

Jake was surprised by the voice behind him, though he did not let it show. He set his drink down and turned to face the Parilisan President. He bowed deeply before replying.

"Mr. President. " Novacek said before going on. "Quite correct, I'm here representing The Federation of Oseato, President Hamilton regrets and apologizes for not being able to attend in person, however the Federation is currently engaged in some conflict that requires his attention. I must say this is quite a luxury for a simple soldier such as myself and that it's nice to finally meet you. I've been studying your fascinating country since I was aware I was drawing this assignment."

Jake smiled as he talked, but his mind was elsewhere, sizing up the man in front of him. He seemed shorter than in the pictures that had come with his briefing. He also came across as more friendly than Jake expected at such a conference. It was puzzling, but not troublesomely so. Just then he saw the Wolf Hold delegation and made a mental note to greet them when he was done talking to the Parilisan President.

Wonderful, thought Klein, if they’re caught up in a war that’s yet another member of the poxy alliance we have to deal with.

“I’m glad somebody sees this whole unfortunate business as a luxury, I personally would much rather be at home. But needs must, and I must be here. I think most people are here now aren’t they?” Klein looked around. “I’d better go talk to the Adenian fellow. It was nice meeting you; I hope to have nothing but good relations with your noble nation in the future.”

Klein left the Oseaton and headed towards the Train Commander, but he was interrupted in his stroll down the passage by the quiet arrival of Sophia Hirsch, Parilisa’s leading ambassador. She kissed him softly on the cheek with the polite manner in which she would only ever greet him at a meeting such as this, whispering in his ear as she did so.

“The Wolves are over there; the two men who look as dark as a funeral.” she said as quietly as possible. “I hear that one of them in particular is distraught by a particular casualty of Leistung’s most effective missile, but I don’t know which or why.”

“I’ll bear that in mind.” replied Klein. He could always trust Sophia to find out the weak spot of an enemy ambassador. Although he did not share her talent in exploiting these unguarded heels, he knew how to control a person like these. “I’m going to talk to the Commander, the Adenian. You should go and socialise, get to know everyone a little better.”

Sophia gave him a mocking salute and a giggle as she waltzed of with an elegance Klein had never seen anyone able to imitate. The President approached the Train Commander.

“Could you tell me where I would find a glass of fine whisky, good sir? And if everyone is here I would appreciate it if you could call us into the conference room.”

The Commandant nodded, his conversation with the stewardesses interrupted briefly. "Ah, quite so, my good man. If you will look toward the end of the carriage, one of the staff behind the bar will acquaint you with the finer spirits available. I will make the announcement immediately." He nodded to the stewardesses, who briefly bowed forward and took their places by the conference room doors, just beyond the vestibule into the next carriage.

The Commandants voice rang loudly through the carriage - an old drill sergeant's quality to the voice, sharp-toned and direct.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, the conference will shortly begin in the next carriage. Please make your way promptly, where you will be seated. Latecomers will not be permitted entry, and can all security staff please make their way via the outside of the locomotive to the support staff cars at the front of the train."

On the platform, steam was now bellowing from the engine as the fireman built up the firebox. An art in itself, it took years to truly learn one's engine, the location of the hottest part of the firebox, rates of shovelling, the best size of coal lump - all took time to learn, but yielded a lasting bond between engineer and engine that ensured the fleet was perfectly maintained. With all aboard, the guard's green flag was raised - a small jolt through the carriages signified that with the start of the journey, so too could the conference.

Tzetzes had barely taken a seat when the Commandant announced that the conference was about to begin. Regretting not having managed to chat with the other delegates and get some feel for what they were like, he proceded to move to the next carriage, hoping to get some words with the other ambassadors in thetransit to the other carriage.

Teodore Komnenos made his way to the conference car, resplendant in his silk suit and cloak, yet somehow detached from the situation despite his evident good humour in dealing with others. Perhaps it was because his nation had no direct interest, perhaps because he represented a regime whose very survival was under threat.

Shortly before Novacek could make his way over to the Wolf Hold delegation, the Commandant announced that the conference was to begin. Novacek paused for a moment before venturing toward the conference car. He stood discretely to the side surveying the other delegates as they passed. He then slowly made his way to the conference car, allowing his aide to catch up to him and hand him a message from back home, as well as his secure laptop.

He quickly scanned the message, his face growing darker as he read.

Terrific. Jake thought. We've just escalated our involvement in another foreign war.What a way to enter into peace talks. When he finished reading, he folded the message and handed it back to his aide to have it destroyed. While the message wouldn't really effect the Oseaton stance on peace talks, it certainly complicated things.

President Klein took his seat at the head of the table. Next to him were laid out the neat and tidy places of his allies and across from him were the allies of The Wolf Hold. The 3rd Wolf’s Marshall was sat directly opposite the Parilisan, and as they sat Klein gave the foreigner a cold, threatening glare.

“My friends, esteemed leaders of the international community, the circumstances under which we are summoned here today are dire. Our nations stand at the brink of conflict, a conflict sparked by pointless, casual aggression. For the second time in a few months, the Armed Republic of The Wolf Hold has used dangerously hostile tactics to infringe the sovereign rights of the Republic of Parilisa.” Said Klein, projecting his voice so all could hear him clearly. “This meeting is an attempt to keep world peace. Although the Holdian delegate may come here with the fire of war burning in him, and although his nation may cry out for more savagery to be committed against the innocent office’s and housing estates of Parilisa, we hope to reason with you. We hope, in conclusion, to keep our nations from taking the violently painful road to war and disaster.”

Klein once again looked into the Holdian’s eyes.

“Would the good delegate from the Wolf Hold care to explain his nation's actions, for the benefit of the presently assembled ambassadors?”

Before the Conference

The smell of Coalsmoke brought a smile to every Sutfen's face. It smelled of home, of Sutufinai's own railroad. It brought memories of the coal powerplants, the coalstoves, it was in essence... Everything Sutfen rolled into one.

At Marcus's approach and remark, the minister of naval affairs and the General immediately looked to Vice President who snorted. "Well enough, Though I would be this is the only steam locomotive on these rails. It's 'pretty' sure... But it's a pampered locomotive. I took a look at it's tired, they are shiney and new, havn't been run nearly at all if at all. On top of this, it's a -tank- engine. It looks fast, but it does not have a raw power or look of a large locomotive. It is nothing but an oversized yard goat. Feh!"

You see, having been a Freight Locomotive engineer before gaining office as the Vice President... The Vice president was in favor of powerful, huge locomotives that roared and thundered. The only passenger locomotive he'd ever liked was the LNER Class A4 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LNER_Class_A4) Brilliance (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:LNER_Class_A4_60019_Bittern.jpg). Now -there- was a beautiful locomotive. But such were things less impressive when viewed next to the massive Garratt (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_African_Railways_GL_class_Garratt) or even the Challenger (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Union_Pacific_Challenger). And if one was going for beauty, he doubted this locomotive could hold a candle to brass and shine of the Sutfen's Mercury (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:CP_steam_loco.jpg) or Victory (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:W%26A_No3.JPG). He shrugged, Steam Locomotives were only steam locomotives if you could -tell- they were steam locomotives. This thing? This thing was a steam locomotive pretending to be a Diesel. If they had wanted speed, he knew they could've gone for one of those fancy dancy electric locomotives.

But, with that aside he shrugged.... "It's a fine locomotive and railroad. I must applaud them." He gave a reasonably 'true' smile as he stood up to greet the Nachmerean... "Well, I don't know about you... But suits make my fur itch an' I hate 'em." He chuckled lightly and his remark was echoed by the two Sutfen behind him.

The whole group ambled into the room, The Minister of Naval Affairs and the Vice President took seats whereas the General... He just moved his chair to one side and settled down on his haunces, resting his massive arms on the table. The three Sutfen sat silently and listened to the Parilisian speech with little to no 'pity' on the human who was spouting the amount of hot air the group was wondering when the bovine feces would start spraying out of it's mouth.

Sutufinai knew for a fact that Parilisa hadn't taken nearly as many casualties as they acted like. They also doubted very many civilians had been killed, he guessed many had been wounded... But, from their perspective... Parilisa was trying to buy a pity vote of make the Sutfen and Wolf Holder allies feel bad.

All in all however, the Sutufinai delegation said nothing and just listened quietly, whispering among themselves, not even to Wolf Hold... Though their ears swivelled and moved to focus on each individual person speaking.

"Well, I don't know about you... But suits make my fur itch an' I hate 'em."

General Tork was very pleased at that remark. A smile appeared on his wide face. He had a feeling that, if not for the idiot captain of that missile boat, he could get very comfortable with these people. Their insistence on using coal as an energy source was a bit strange, but they were straight shooters. He was one too. He made a mental note to tell the Sutfen how very sorry he felt for the unfortunate blue on blue incident. He had no time right now though, because the conference talks were beginning.

As he listened to the opening words, he could tell that no good would come out of this. The Parilisan rhetoric sounded like a small child crying to his mother about being hit by a bully. He did not have much to do with the Wolf Holders so far, but he knew them well enough to know that whiners were not their cup of tea. Also while the Parilisan sounded like war is a complete disaster, the "vibe" Tork was getting from the Wolf Holders was that war is just as normal as going to the super market. He had his own opinion, somewhere in the middle. War was his profession. He left it to other Generals to talk of fighting for peace, he fought for complete destruction of the enemy. Either way there was no doubt the Wolf Holders were keen on pissing off ODECON. He quite liked that about them, like a small terrier deliberately annoying a bull. Very brave. The Wolf Holders, unlike the terrier, would bring friends to this possible fight.

General Novacek grew tense as the Parilisan President read his opening remarks. They were so full of insults and condemnations that were ill advised for a peace conference. He sincerely doubted the Wolf Holders would allow them to insult them, even diplomatically.

Hell, Novacek thought, We know they're pissed off, that's why were here now.What he should be focusing on is how to avoid more bloodshed.

It all struck Jake as a massive waste of time, effort, and resources to gather a peace conference only to begin it by blatantly insulting one side. That wasn't how things worked in the diplomatic trade. Even a lowly general knew that.

General Novacek grew tense as the Parilisan President read his opening remarks. They were so full of insults and condemnations that were ill advised for a peace conference. He sincerely doubted the Wolf Holders would stick around long if this continued.

Hell, Novacek thought, I'm not going to stick around if it continues this way.

It all struck Jake as a massive waste of time, effort, and resources to gather a peace conference only to begin it by blatantly insulting one side. That wasn't how things worked in the diplomatic trade. Even a lowly general knew that.

How does he plan to leave exactly? He's on a 150mph train...

"Hear hear," murmured Owenson. He himself was wondering what the fashion was with tinpot nations to send solely military personnel to a diplomatic event.

How does he plan to leave exactly? He's on a 150mph train...
Point taken, edited for that somehow forgotten fact.

The Leistungi delegation added their approval to the speech in a similar way, clapping lightly and murmuring general remarks. The Parilisan's words were strong, but all completely true -- Parilisa had done nothing to incur the Wolf Holder's wrath, yet twice in as many weeks the two nations came to the brink of war. Unsurprisingly, both times the conflict had been sparked by the Wolf Hold.

Quite honestly, both men were struggling not to simply stand, address the car, and declare that if the Wolf Hold attacked Parilisa again, they would cease to exist as a nation. ODECON did not begin wars, but it most definitely finished them.

I wonder if that grenade I brought could stop the train

Marcus mused as he smirked at the Sutfen's comments about the train and the suits. He found it good that the Nachmerians and Sutfen were greeting along considering both of them had been responsible for a blue-on-blue attack that had led to the destruction of a large part of Sutufinai navy. He knew that the two nations that were represented in front of him were two of what the Wolf Hold considered close allies in this war torn world, the last thing they wanted was some in-fighting between them that could lead to the un-necessary loss of soldiers lives, the Wolf Hold would need every single one of their allies if this conflict with ODECON went hot again.

Nodding to both the Nachmerian general and the Sutufinai party, they waited till everyone else had entered the conference room then entered the room themselves. Taking their seats in front of the Parilisan president, Evans' eyes locked onto Klein’s, the anger clearly visible to the Parilisan president however it wasn't just anger over the death of their men, there was something deeper there burning blacker then anything else. They both listened to Klein’s twaddle about averting world wide war and how the agresivness of the Wolf Hold had brought them to this. Fell was surprised about how un-diplomatic Klein was being considering that this nation was 'supposed' to be civilised place. Whilst Fell kept a slightly jovial mood as he gave a look to both the Sutufinai and Nachmere’s representatives the clearly meant "Is this guy for real?" However Evans wasn't content to sit idly by. Keeping his eyes locked on Kleins he spoke, his voice not needing any volume as its icy quality cut through the air.

"Me and the rest of the Marshalls try to lead the military and The Wolf Hold itself by a few 'un-official' rules, one of them is never leave a man or woman behind, whilst this may not be applicable to some sea conflicts but whilst there is a beating heart on a ship we will not abandon them. That is why we deployed to rescue a sub that you ODECON dogs had set upon like the bunch of scavengers you are! Whilst you may not care about the standard soldier which I must say is evident by the severe lack of funding you give to your armed forces and police, so much so that they complain to a foreign leader! We on the other hand would give our lives to save our men and women and they would do the same for us, that is why we went into your seas, to rescue our men from the jaws of a nation that can't deal with pirates without the support of their allies! Also be grateful that we ordered Battle group Fell back because If I had had my way Exengrad would be a smoking ruin and every living soul inside that city would of been exterminated and that would even come close to re-paying for the deaths of our men and women!"

Evans love for the men and women of his command was evident, it was quite clear that he was willing to do anything for them and even avenge them. He was barely keeping a lid on his anger as he stared across the table at this smug civilian that thought he could try to show the Wolf Hold up in front of there allies or 'supposed allies' as the case may be for some nations. Whilst the main cause for the outburst was evident, that black anger burning inside him was still blazing.

Admiral Junker chuckled when the Wolf Holder had finished, though the faces of the other ODECON diplomats seemed far different. Minister Kirsch was moving to speak, but the Admiral cut him off with a hand. "My friend, your words represent something we in the Bundesmarine refer to as fanaticism. In addition to the quite frankly unfounded claim that Parilisa does not care for its soldiers, I find it interested that you would send so many into harm's way to save those killed by your own hand.

"Indeed, though it was an Adenian weapon which felled your submarine, let us remember first and foremost that it was a ballistic missile submarine operating at first-strike distance from Parilisa in Parilisan waters. When contacted, the submarine in question refused to surface, choosing instead to dive -- the Adenians operated completely within protocol in destroying it.

"And Marshall, I might ask how the deaths of Wolf Holder soldiers, sent by yourself on a military mission to Parilisan waters, would warrant a major missile strike on a civilian target. There are rules we follow as well, and I can assure you that killing innocents does not fit into the rules of engagement for civilized nations." He spat out the last two words and waited for the inevitable backlash.

OOC: I wonder if those nukes I have stashed away could turn you into one giant class plate or many small ones... >_>

The Adenian delegate interjected, obviously irritated. "I might add, Marshall, that you should have an invoice on your desk regarding the cost of the torpedoes fired at your vessel. Because, obviously, we can't afford to replace them, what with our puny defence budgets - an unfortunate side effect of liberty - the same liberty, coincidentally, that allows you to be here now. So may I remind you where you sit, Marshall, as you are at a diplomatic conference. At least be erudite with your insults, for God's sake."

He leant back in his chair, a glance at the Leistungi Admiral, a raised eyebrow. He leant across, whispering: "Ruddy whippersnappers, playing dress-up. Couldn't play diplomacy to save their lives..."

OOC: I wonder if those nukes I have stashed away could turn you into one giant class plate or many small ones... >_>
OOC: Always the subtle one :D

OOC: Didn't appreciate the subtle hint then BA?

Alessandra Condozzi entered the compartment from the restaurant car, fashionably late as could typically be expected of Santherese, just as the Adenian representative finished his statement. She walked slowly around the table, her back as straight as could be, thick heels pushing her to six and a half feet tall. Despite the train being in motion, she seemed to have little problem maintaining her balance with her somewhat precarious shoes.

Having just finished eating at her typically-slow pace, she felt up to the talks. Whether or not she would get the floor often enough to do any good was in the air, but she could try.

She spoke with a clear voice that was as soft as could be while still possible to hear over the sound of the train. It was a practiced voice, one that was characteristic of many veteran diplomats. “The fact of the matter is, Marshall, that these men you love so dearly would still be extant if you had remained outside of our waters. We cannot take the blame for defending ourselves anymore than we could blame you if Doomingsland decided on a whim to enslave your populace. For that matter, why would you not have simply informed Parilisa that you had a boat in their waters that was in distress. I’m sure we would have all rushed to save it if that was necessary.

“You see, we hold life to have great value and I personally believe it a crime to waste it due to apathy, amongst other things. I feel great remorse,” she stopped briefly behind Klein, “that anyone had to die that day. Why, I found myself at Mary Basset’s office asking her to commit fewer forces so that there would be less inclination for anyone to push for a counter strike.

“Indeed, now, if I had my way, the men aboard your ships would be home with their families, and Parilisan men, women, and children who died as a result of that missile would be going to work or school, or playing in their homes right now. What we want here is for that to be bestowed upon anyone who would die in future conflict.

“I can, however, promise that if the Parilisans are threatened, we will commit full aid to ensuring they do not pay the price for mindless aggression. You are an intelligent man, Marshall, you are evidently a loving man. So, kindly explain the rationale behind beginning a war over what is, at it’s very heart, absolutely nothing, keeping in mind that your men were lost after the aforementioned occurrence.”

At this point, she was already behind her seat. She sat down in a clear signal that she was finished with her opening statement.

OOC: Didn't appreciate the subtle hint then BA?

OOC: SUBTLETY IS FOR THE WEAK D:< :P - you can try and blow a hole in the floor of the train, but you'll be killing diplomats from your allies nations too. It's not smart, as it'll just be a race to see who can unload the most nuclear material into in one salvo :P

Tzetzes gave a very quick glare to Marcus, one that showed annoyance and irritation at his speech. He thought to himself while the Parilisan's statement was irritating, it does have truth to it. Not only that but this was supposed to be a peace conference. How he thinks he is going to get that by insulting the Parilisans and expressing a desire to flatten their city into a smoking ruin is beyond me. He then sighed, just slightly enough to make sure that that the other ambassadors be unlikely to hear it and continued to listen to the two sides as they made their arguements.

OOC: Real Life Story: Harrisburg PA, I believe, A Burglar broke into a school to burglarize it. He decided to break into the school from the roof. So he climbed up onto the school's roof and promptly fell through a skylight and broke his spine and legs. He survived and promptly charged a lawsuit of over 5 million dollars against the school with the claim of; "The school should have known they were going to be burglarized at some point and should've known that they'd've been broken into from the roof. Thus they should not have put the skylights in." The sad part of the story is, the Jury gave the Burglar the money. The Burglar litterally got 5 million dollars from a school district he robbed. The same thing has happened across the US where would be robbers/Rapists/Burglars have broken into a house and been attacked by people in the house and badly hurt. The Robber/rapists/burglars then sue the persons defending themselves for the injuries they got. Most of the time, they sadly win.

IC:

The Vice president looked back and fourth bettween the many quarrelling factions in the room before he suddenly raised his voice above all the rest. He used the god given canid lungs to make the cabin ring. "WELL THEN!" He stated, repeating it if nessasary until he got silence... "Since we're all bouncing around spewing Bullshit across the walls and blowing Methane out of our lungs... I'd like to state that the Nation of Sutufinai will sue every member of ODECON One trillion dollars for the damages against the Sutufinai Navy, which the Navy recieved in Parilisan waters while trying to quell Pirates operating out of Parilisa. As the Pirates were threatening Sutfen trade, the Nation of Sutufinai is holding all members of ODECON accountable for this grave loss of life and it demands full reparations before the Nation of Sutufinai promptly invades and conquers every one of your realms and I become a dictator of half the world."

The Vice president paused and looked across the assembled world leaders and shook his head. "I came here worried I would be against seasoned diplomats, while I was a country simpleton from a third world country. The only person on EITHER side I have currently seen who kept their cool..." He glared at Wolfhound and Nachmere, "Is the Santheres representative who was LATE!"

"GROW UP! All of you!" He glares at them all, "It is absolutely -sad- when a Third World country who has no -cars- and half the country has no electricity... Is ASHAMED at the Quarrelling of nations who have NUCLEAR GODDAMN WEAPONS which all nations assembled could -easily- destroy the whole known world and every living being on it. Hell, every living beast on this planet..." He slammed his fist on the table, "I expected every person here to be -mature- individuals who would keep me silent because I would feel totally out of their Diplomatic league. But no! What I come here and see are a bunch of childish idiots snapping and fighting!"

He crossed his arms and shook his head, "No. I expected more." He glared at Nachmere and Wolfhold. "I am standing behind you. But your actions here, your inability to curb your anger and remain under control... It shames me. It should shame you as well." He shook his head and bared his teeth in a furious snarl. Looking at all of them, "You all should know better, you all should have more control. This is not a Peace Conference... This is a steam powered CLOWN CAR fill of raving lunatics with the ability to turn whole nations into glass!" He snorted.

"I cannot order ODECON to anything. But I warn you Wolf Hold, Nachmere. If you do not keep control of yourselves and act like you actually have a mind capable of sentient thought in those heads of yours... I will retract Sutufinai's support from either side." He looked across all of them, "There is a Sutfen proverb that goes, 'Keep your senses about you, watch your enemy and wait for him to anger. Use your peace of mind and composure to strike quickly, and go for the throat.'" He looked at Wolf Hold and Nachmere.

"Remember this, it will stand you in good stead." He sat down and went quiet again.

"Why is there a household pet asking me to reimburse him for ships his allies destroyed?" Minister Kirsch whispered, inaudible to all but the Adenian delegation he was speaking to.

"IF the Sutfen is quite finished!" The Commandant stepped forward from his post at the end of the carriage. "This is highly unprofessional. Rest assured, ladies and gentlemen, you are aboard my vehicle, and believe me, I have no qualms about having you all confined to your cabins until this train next reaches a platform. Yes, gentlemen, I do have that power. Mind your language, mind the warmongering, and I especially mean you Vice President. Now is not the time nor is here the place for proverbs of war - we are here to discuss peace. Now, I believe many members were addressing the, ahem, delegates from the Wolf Hold."

Turning briskly on his heel, the Commandant returned to the end of the cabin. Rapping once on the door, two more men entered - unarmed, but serving as that extra confirmation that they were on an Adenian train, and civility would be kept.

---

"Oh, heaven knows. Throw it a treat, that should clear it up," the Adenian whispered back. Increasing his voice, he turned to the Sutfen. "Perhaps, young sirs, as you are obviously inept at the intricacies of diplomacy, it would be better if you refrained from making demands until such a time as you are recognised enough to ensure that there may be some form of repercussion. Carrot and stick, you see? Now I believe the honourable Commandant put it quite clearly..."

“I apologize, of course, for my late arrival. I am a hypoglycemic and would not have made it through the meeting without eating first. The symptoms I was feeling were sudden-onset, and I decided my health may well be important enough to be late. I apologize once again for any inconvenience this may have caused.

“Now, then, I trust the Sutfen delegation would not have such an outburst if the manner in which these talks have progressed were not as they say. I do ask, however, that you try to remain calm, yourselves, lest anyone say something we would all regret. We are here for peace and understanding and demanding trillions of dollars for an outdated ship or three does not help these matters. Though I cannot speak for Santheres proper, being an ODECON representative as I am, I am sure they will be more than willing to aid your nation when these talks are over, but we must at this time remain reasonable.”

She smiled at the Sutfen, hoping to sooth his clearly last nerve, and making a mental note to speak to them all privately when she got the chance. It was every day, certainly, that she met third-worlders and could speak to them on an equal level.

"Now, may we recommence, as the Commandant has suggested?"

OOC: I find it amusing that the person saying they should stop threatening one another and grow up... is being called a Warmonger... Also, I find it amazing you didn't get the sarcasm there Leistung. He was pushing that remark demanding reparations forward as an example of how idiotic and stupid everyone was acting by throwing out an equally stupid and idiotic remark before scolding everyone to act like grown ups.

OOC: I find it amusing that the person saying they should stop threatening one another and grow up... is being called a Warmonger... Also, I find it amazing you didn't get the sarcasm there Leistung. He was pushing that remark demanding reparations forward as an example of how idiotic and stupid everyone was acting by throwing out an equally stupid and idiotic remark before scolding everyone to act like grown ups.

OOC: I find it amusing that the person who was saying that they should stop yelling did a lot more screaming than anyone else.

(OOC: Boo, the forum froze and I lost my first post).

IC:

Deputy Foreign Minister for the North Atlantic Region Thomas Hollander frowned, as the string of outbursts between the opposing parties continued. While the Foreign Minister and the other high-level diplomatic staff back in Rostgard had warned that it was entirely possible civility would be flung out the window, it was hard to expect this. Most diplomats never had to attend a conference where threats of nuclear annihilation were thrown around within minutes of the opening statements.

After resting his forehead against his palm for a moment, Hollander turned to face the other two members representing the Armed Republic of Salzland in this affair. Both were leaning against the rear wall of their train car, carrying on a low-volume conversation between themselves. The first, dressed in the traditional dark blue of the Salzland Air Force, was Colonel Jacob Higgins. An alert observor would note that Higgins was the commanding officer of the 3rd Strategic Air Wing, based at Rostgard Air Base. It was his unit responsible for Salzland's only direct contribution to the brief fighting in the Baltic Sea, specifically the cruise missile attack against the Nachmere naval units in the region.

Speaking with him, garbed in the deep green reserved for the Salzland Defense Force Marines was recently-promoted General David Thompson, commander of the SDF Marines' 5th Airborne Division. As Salzland had not contributed any ground forces to the recent campaign in the Baltic, it was certain that some would be confused as to Thompson's presence at the conference. Depending on the quality of the intelligence services belonging to the various involved nations, however, they might be aware that the 5th Airborne had recently received orders to begin mobilization for deployment, though its destination was presently unknown.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, if I may?" asked Hollander. "Certainly, we are all capable of acting in a civilized fashion for at least five minutes, before pledging to annihilate one another? Perhaps establishing a set of common facts would aid in bringing this meeting back to order."

He paused briefly before continuing. "First, I believe that everyone here will agree that a Wolf Hold submarine was deployed to the Baltic Sea, specifically in the vicinity of Parilisan territorial waters. Second, I believe that we will all agree that the submarine in question was a ballistic missile submarine. I do not care to argue over why the ballistic missile submarine was deployed, though certainly we all have our suspicions. I simply seek to establish two stipulations, acceptable to all parties, that might serve as common ground to bring this conference back on task."

OOC: I find it amusing that the person who was saying that they should stop yelling did a lot more screaming than anyone else.

OOC: Psh, I've found that when scolding... yelling works the best, not whispering. lol :p

"If I may add something, Minister Hollander. Mr. Vice President, do you really think it a viable option to attempt to sue the members of ODECON for sinking the warships that you unlawfully placed in the sovereign territory of Parilisa? Would you sue the sea for corroding the hulls of your ships? There is always the possibility of destruction, especially when you damn-near invade someone! Hell, more than half of us, New Kereptica included, had nothing to do with the operation. If I recall correctly, which I do, there was never any official action by ODECON against you and your fellow aggressors. The actions taken were solely on the part of the individual nations which participated. Now, would you care to retract your ridiculous claims, so that this conference can get on with it's propose? We're not here for reparations, Mr. Vice President. We're here for peace.

"If I may add something, Minister Hollander. Mr. Vice President, do you really think it a viable option to attempt to sue the members of ODECON for sinking the warships that you unlawfully placed in the sovereign territory of Parilisa? Would you sue the sea for corroding the hulls of your ships? There is always the possibility of destruction, especially when you damn-near invade someone! Hell, more than half of us, New Kereptica included, had nothing to do with the operation. If I recall correctly, which I do, there was never any official action by ODECON against you and your fellow aggressors. The actions taken were solely on the part of the individual nations which participated. Now, would you care to revise your ridiculous claims?"

"Certainly the Vice-President was joking when he made his statements," Hollander replied. "Though I, for one, would certainly be interested in seeing what would happen should that be a serious thread," he added with a smile, attempting to remove any possible hostile interpretations from his remark.

OOC: Go Salzland! \o/ Your either the first or second person to actually succeed in recognizing the sarcasm and joke!

"Ah. Of course. I'm afraid I'm just not up to par with your young tomfoolery. In my day, international politics involving billions of civilians was a serious matter." Keupir replied, ending the sentence with an icy glare in the direction of the Sutufini Vice President.

OOC: Go Salzland! \o/ Your either the first or second person to actually succeed in recognizing the sarcasm and joke!

OOC: Nah, they got it, they just wanted to play along like you were serious ;)

The vice president just rolled his eyes as he sat back, "Then please restrain your comrade from Parilisa. The people who most know what nuclear weapons can do are those you have none and are under threat. As it seems, Parilisa doesn't seem to care about needlessly insulting or aggravating and baiting the people in -peace- talks." He shrugged his shoulders before settling in to listen once more.

The vice president just rolled his eyes as he sat back, "Then please restrain your comrade from Parilisa. The people who most know what nuclear weapons can do are those you have none and are under threat. As it seems, Parilisa doesn't seem to care about needlessly insulting or aggravating and baiting the people in -peace- talks." He shrugged his shoulders before settling in to listen once more.

"Quaint, but if you would perhaps put your allies from the Wolf Hold on a leash so that they may refrain from threatening the razing of major cities this conference may well begin to resemble a productive event rather than a free ride out at Adenian expense."

Alessandra cleared her throat. "Perhaps sniping at each other is not a productive line of discussion, either?"

That was, by far, the shortest thing she had actually said all day, including prior to the conference.

"It is an exceptional ride though, Commandant;"Keupir added, "my compliments to, well, everyone."

The Vice President nodded and glared at Wolf Hold. "Oh, I intend to keep my allies form jumping the gun. This is neither the place for a wild argument or a fight..." He smiled graviously, closed mouth... Which, in Sutufinai was a means for friendly and calm agreement and happiness. It was nothing of the tooth-bearing challenge grin.

He kept the calm smile on his face as he silently thought to himself, If there should of course be fighting and arguments, there is a time and a place for everything. ...

Lt. General Novacek leaned forward in his seat and cleared his throat before speaking calmly, yet clearly.

"Ladies and gentlemen, perhaps interests would be best served if we stopped with all this grandstanding, insults,and inane chatter and get to the matter at hand? We're all aware of the losses both sides incurred, be they monetary or human lives. We're here to make sure peace prevails, not place blame."

Finished, Novacek sat back in his chair and waited for the conference to continue.

Kirsch had kept his silence, observing the conversation with some measure of entertainment. His job was to represent the interests of the Leistungi government, and at this point, those interests were not being addressed.

"To business now -- I'd like to keep this as simple as possible for all our sakes. Leistung's proposal is this: Parilisa is paid reparations and receives a formal apology from the government of the Wolf Hold for the attacks on Exengrad," the Minister said. "Separate pleas for reparations can be brought up as necessary, but this is of paramount importance. Secondly, Parilisan vessels will not enter or approach Wolf Holder waters, and vice-versa.

"The two nations we meet here to discuss clearly have differences, and we though I'm sure we'd all support mutual respect, trade, and flowers dropped from aircraft, it simply isn't going to happen in the short term. Perhaps this simple rule will serve to prevent further unintentional conflict?"

As Kirsch made his last comment, Keupir's face fell. Stepping away from the table, he pulled out his phone, dialing the number of Air-Marshall Peter Gurchk, the ranking representative of the New Kereptica Air Force in the Department of Defense.

"Gurchk? Yes, this is the President."

...

"It's about Operation Blossoming Peace."

...

"I'm afraid it's going to have to be called off."

...

"Yes, I know the planes are already in the air."

...

"Yes, I know that the plants will die."

...

"God damnit! I know how much this cost us! It has to be canceled! End of story!"

...

"Good day, Air-Marshall."

With that final goodbye, Keupir hung up, putting the phone back into his pocket. He turned, rejoining the conversation. There would be no airdropped daisies today.

Teodoros Komnenos signalled for the group's attention. When it was granted, he politely stood up and began.

"Delegates, I stand with Salzland's delegation in this matter. Let us first find things that we can agree on, in order to establish a common ground. Then, we can wrangle over the rest all day long, if we want. I believe that we can agree on the following:"

"First. The Wolf Hold, shortly after a tense incident with Parilisa, placed a ballistic missile submarine within striking range of the Parilisan coast. I would like the Parilisan and Wolfholder delegates to answer this question: was it or was it not within Parilisan territorial waters?"

"Second. After hailing an unknown submersible vessel whose sonar return indicated the possibility of being a ballisic missile submarine, Parilisan forces received no response. They then assumed the worst - as is their right under standing international law, and engaged and sank the submarine, still not knowing that it belonged to the Wolf Hold."

"Third. In response to the destruction of their submarine, the Wolf Hold decided to launch a retaliatory force."

"Fourth. This force approached Parilisan waters, and engaged in a missile strike against Parilisan targets ashore. Parilisa claims that the missiles hit civilian targets; the Wolf Hold does not dispute this, but claims a targetting error on the part of the missile operators - that the missiles were intended to hit the nearby military installations, and the civilian damage was an accident. I would ask Parilisa: do you accept this claim?"

"Fifth. Parilisan forces engaged the Wolfholder fleet. causing it to retreat with moderate casualties on both sides."

"Sixth. After significant urging by various uninvolved parties, including the Empire of New Chalcedon, the Parilisan government called a peace conference, which the Wolf Hold, as well as the various allies they'd picked up along the way, agreed to attend."

"Oh yes. Seventh. The Wolf Hold came to the table after various members of the Commonwealth of Independant Nations, again including the Empire of New Chalcedon, indicated that the CIN would not come to the aid of the Wolf Hold in this scenario. And here we all are now, Ladies and Gentlemen."

Komnenos sat down, having thrown out that abbreviated set of events for people to embroider on as they pleased. Whilst his tone had been painstakingly neutral throughout, his expression slipped a few times, indicating his disgust for the Wolf Hold's actions.

Deputy Minister Hollander leaned back in his seat, allowing himself the briefest smile as the Imperial ambassador spoke. Having the support of New Chalcedon in this conference would be a significant aid toward resolving the peace talks as swiftly as possible. With the bombastic rhetoric finally dying down, getting the peace process resolved quickly would hopefully prevent any further aggressive flare-ups.

"Thank you, sir, for your support," he spoke, turning to face Komnenos. "I believe that is a more than fair description of why Parilisa and The Wolf Hold are here today, along with the rest of us. Perhaps we might now be able to proceed, and hear from the Wolf Hold and Parilisan representatives?"

General Tork was quiet to this point. He saw no point in the countless insults and threats thrown across the table. The ODECON members were not fully grasping the mindset of a Wolf Holder, especially no of these two specific Wolf Holders. The Wolf Holders mean while, were obviously incapable of grasping any mindset that a non military nation had. That was not a great surprise. The Sutfen were just bizarre, although he had to admit they had a point. But the thought that the involvement of a country that attacks state of the art missile ships with 100 years old museum pieces would be crucial to the Wolf Holders…Was, well, bizarre.
“Excuse me, honored delegates.” He spoke loudly. He had a low voice, with that added touch of someone who smoked a lot more than he should. “May I continue the line of quiet and reasonable discussion, but correct some errors made here?” He did not wait to see the response, because he was very sure it might be his only chance to talk here.
“Firstly, may I say I understand the anger and pain of all involved in these talks. Those here who have lost countrymen on that day are understandably emotional. However, I will not accept a false representation of facts. Therefore, and if the respected New Chalcedonian representative will agree, I will shed some light on the events of that day. What I will say is the position of Nachmere, not any other nation, and should not be viewed otherwise.”
“The submarine in question was last contacted with outside Parilisan water. She was on a pirate hunting mission, not attempting to threaten Parilisan towns or civilians. While we will never know, we assume that the submarine entered Parilisan waters in pursuit of pirates who later engaged the Parilisans themselves.”
“At this point, as you see, both sides are sharing the same interest, removal of pirats who are threatening civilian shipping. There was no need for us to get from there to where we stand now” Tork stopped and took a look across the room.
“Now, the Parilisans claim that they hailed the cubmarine…I don’t know a way to contact a submarine that is not surfaced unless they had a submarine in the area, which by their own reports they did not at first. Even then, it requires the two submarines to be close to each other, which I do not believe happened. It is the belief of my government and me, that the submarine was engaged in what I can only describe as a trigger happy fashion.”
“Shortly after or perhaps during the engagement of the Wolf Hold submarine, a Nachmere Carrier group approached the scene. This was done on request of our friends and allies, who lost contact with their submarine. The carrier group had no hostile intentions and asked in open channels to be allowed to search for the submarine. The carrier group had, as always, aircraft in the air. The ODECON forces than fired anti-aircraft missiles at the Nachmerian aircraft. At this point a naval battle commenced in which thousands of Nachmerian sailors and airmen were killed or went missing. To this point no ODECON official has come forward to tell us the faith of the sailors left behind when the carrier group had to retreat to avoid destruction. We also lost 9 ships. After this happened the Wolf Holders indeed launched a missile strike at Parillisan targets, and the Wolf Hold ships were engaged and hit, after which withdrawing.”
“Now, as you see, we were not “picked up along the way”, we stand by our allies. If anyone wishes to correct me I would appreciate any further accuracy in the description. I would also very much like to know if ODECON forces captured any of my countrymen and where and at what conditions are they being held”

OOC: It is, in fact, entirely possible to communicate with submerged submarines without having other submarines in the area. It's been done since the 1960s.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extremely_low_frequency

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Very_low_frequency

"If I may, General, there are several inaccuracies in your recollection of the events. First off, no one sends a ballistic missile submarine to fight pirates. You say you were 'not attempting to threaten Parilisan towns or civilians', and yet you did. Placing a submarine full of ballistic missiles off the coast of a stranger nation has no other effect. You also say that the carrier group you led into the area had the sole objective of searching for your missing submarine. You don't send warships into sovereign territory to search for a submarine that was also there illegally! Really! It's just not done! What you did was attack Parilisa with absolutely no provocation, an act of war, and now you claim that you were in the right."

“Mr Komnenos has given the most accurate set of statements surrounding the incident I have heard so far, and I thank him for this.” Said Klein, standing up and reorganising the papers laid out before him. “As he has pointed out, it is the wisdom of nations such as his which has led me to call this conference in the interest of peace. For this I am also thankful. Now, I feel it would be beneficial if I answer the questions he asked.”

“First, you asked whether or not the Holdian vessel was in national or international waters. I may tell you without doubt that it was within our waters when it was discovered and it was moving within our waters when our Adenian allies took the commendable action of sinking it. The incident was sparked of by a skirmish with pirates operating within Parilisan waters, and if necessary I shall have every man and woman who was part of this operation here before you to tell you for certain that the Holdian submarine was in our sea.”

“Second, the ambassador asked whether or not I accept the claim that the missiles launched at Exengrad were meant to avoid all civilian targets. I do not accept the claim. The sheer number of missiles fired, the abominable aim of the missiles, the suggestion from this presently assembled delegate of The Hold that he wishes to shatter the city and the refusal, so far, of the Wolf Holdians to apologise, seem to me to be certain evidence of their true intent. If their claim is true, it is like a policeman, upon entering a bar where he knows a notorious criminal can be found, shoots without discrimination at everyone and anyone in the area. If that policeman were to then claim that he intended to kill the criminal and that his tactics left him pretty sure he would kill the criminal, we would find him guilty of murder due to his recklessly ignorant barbarity. Especially if that policeman would then, for some bizarre reason, say that he would gladly go back and kill every innocent in that bar, as the Hold claims it wishes to do to Exengrad. The Actions of the 3rd Wolf’s Marshall were the same as that policeman’s. In conclusion, no I do not believe for a moment that any military leader of the same skill and experience as the deceased Marshall could possibly have been stupid enough to make this “mistake.””

Klein paused. He had managed to regain his diplomacy and was now quite calm. The anger in him could, for the moment, be suppressed.

“I hail Leistung’s suggestion as a wise and beneficial one: that Parilisa is paid reparations and receives a formal apology from the government of the Wolf Hold for the attacks on Exengrad, and the presence of a ballistic missile submarine in our sovereign territory. We will agree to keep our forces away from The Wolf Hold, if the Hold will agree to not infringe upon our territory in future either. If the Ambassador is willing to sign such an agreement then we will gladly sign it.”

General Tork was quiet to this point. He saw no point in the countless insults and threats thrown across the table. The ODECON members were not fully grasping the mindset of a Wolf Holder, especially no of these two specific Wolf Holders. The Wolf Holders mean while, were obviously incapable of grasping any mindset that a non military nation had. That was not a great surprise. The Sutfen were just bizarre, although he had to admit they had a point. But the thought that the involvement of a country that attacks state of the art missile ships with 100 years old museum pieces would be crucial to the Wolf Holders…Was, well, bizarre.
“Excuse me, honored delegates.” He spoke loudly. He had a low voice, with that added touch of someone who smoked a lot more than he should. “May I continue the line of quiet and reasonable discussion, but correct some errors made here?” He did not wait to see the response, because he was very sure it might be his only chance to talk here.
“Firstly, may I say I understand the anger and pain of all involved in these talks. Those here who have lost countrymen on that day are understandably emotional. However, I will not accept a false representation of facts. Therefore, and if the respected New Chalcedonian representative will agree, I will shed some light on the events of that day. What I will say is the position of Nachmere, not any other nation, and should not be viewed otherwise.”
“The submarine in question was last contacted with outside Parilisan water. She was on a pirate hunting mission, not attempting to threaten Parilisan towns or civilians. While we will never know, we assume that the submarine entered Parilisan waters in pursuit of pirates who later engaged the Parilisans themselves.”
“At this point, as you see, both sides are sharing the same interest, removal of pirats who are threatening civilian shipping. There was no need for us to get from there to where we stand now” Tork stopped and took a look across the room.
“Now, the Parilisans claim that they hailed the cubmarine…I don’t know a way to contact a submarine that is not surfaced unless they had a submarine in the area, which by their own reports they did not at first. Even then, it requires the two submarines to be close to each other, which I do not believe happened. It is the belief of my government and me, that the submarine was engaged in what I can only describe as a trigger happy fashion.”
“Shortly after or perhaps during the engagement of the Wolf Hold submarine, a Nachmere Carrier group approached the scene. This was done on request of our friends and allies, who lost contact with their submarine. The carrier group had no hostile intentions and asked in open channels to be allowed to search for the submarine. The carrier group had, as always, aircraft in the air. The ODECON forces than fired anti-aircraft missiles at the Nachmerian aircraft. At this point a naval battle commenced in which thousands of Nachmerian sailors and airmen were killed or went missing. To this point no ODECON official has come forward to tell us the faith of the sailors left behind when the carrier group had to retreat to avoid destruction. We also lost 9 ships. After this happened the Wolf Holders indeed launched a missile strike at Parillisan targets, and the Wolf Hold ships were engaged and hit, after which withdrawing.”
“Now, as you see, we were not “picked up along the way”, we stand by our allies. If anyone wishes to correct me I would appreciate any further accuracy in the description. I would also very much like to know if ODECON forces captured any of my countrymen and where and at what conditions are they being held”

“You are deceived, Mr Tork. You are wrong on several accounts. The submarine had no interest in hunting pirates, and if it did it should simply have announced it rather than fleeing. The submarine was contacted, as the records from the submarine will show. As the Kerepticans have pointed out you have acted illegally.”

“I also wish to know why there was a combined Holdian-Nachmerian fleet so close to Parilisa before the incident? I can only presume that the sunk submarine was part of the fleet you had positioned curiously closely to Parilisa.”


Having said his bit, the President sat down in his chair and took a sip of the glass of whisky on the table by his seat. With calm but cold eyes he scanned the assembled ambassadors faces carefully, noting the looks of disgust the Wolf Holders were getting even from their own allies.

Teodoros was quick to calm the situation, addressing the Kereptican delegate.

"Calmly, Delegate! Calmly. This is not the time to be throwing emotionally-charged accusations back and forth."

He then turned to the Nachmere representative.

"General Tork, the notion of sending ballistic missile-armed submarines to fight pirates is, frankly, absurd. Ifyou want pirates dead, you send destroyers. If they're big pirates, you send carrier task forces. Additionally, why would such a mission be carried out off the Parilisan coast? As I understand the situation, Parilisa monitors its coasts thoroughly."

"Also, if you can't communicate with a submerged vessel, that's news to me. ELF transmitters have allowed such communications for decades, and I'm sure that every military represented here has its own means of more advanced communications."

"Now see here!" The Adenian delegate had had more than enough from the Nachmerians. He banged his fist on the table, causing all eyes to move his way. He stood, making sure his point was made.

"A complete falsification, gentlemen, is what you have just heard - or at least, one of the Nachmeran generals is not held privy to what his own nation's shenanigans involve. I have here logs written after the event using accounts from the various captains, a sworn log no less.

"I can, for example, state without question that the submarine was surfaced. The Wolf Holder admitted so himself! I might well also question just what need a nation has to send a ballistic missile submarine pirate hunting without permission in another nation's waters, less than 2 weeks after an armed incident at that nation's airfield which, may I remind the delegates, culminated in the arrest, and persona non grata status being placed on the head of state of the Wolf Hold.

"Furthermore, it is perfectly possible to hail a surfaced submarine, thankyou. It doesn't take a naval architect to work that out, obviously. What your government believes is bunkum, and nothing less." He made a point of pointing at the Nachmerian, homing his agenda in on the man whose government was responsible for the deaths of many Adenians.

"The Nachmerian carrier group demanded - demanded, honourable delegates - that all ships in the area stand down and not attack. This, and it even confounds me still, is such arrogance, such breathtaking disregard for etiquette that I have no idea how the Admiral aboard the Elissa managed to respond at all! For records, the Nachmerians were instructed to, and I quote, "turn about". They responded by launching aircraft. Now, I may be no General or master of war, but that, if I recall correctly, is tantamount to attacking sans declaration of war. Perhaps it would serve well to ensure that the story is told correctly, General."

The delegate walked to the end of the carriage, speaking with the Commandant. He nodded, immediately exiting the carriage. His two guards remained behind, however. Lordens-Owenson returned to his seat, leaning back heavily. Today was not a day for storytelling - cold hard facts were in order, and be damned if he wasn't the one going to deliver them.

This time Wolf's General Fell stood up and addressed the assembled delegates. However he had to disagree with Mr Komnenos from New Chalcedon, although he was glad that the Nachmerians had stood up for them, he was calm and composed to start with but as other nations butted in he grew more irate.

"now we are finally getting some where however, I must point out that your chain of events according to our data is... somewhat lacking in accuracy.

Firstly you are correct in that after the 'Airport Incident' we increased our submarine patrols in and around Parilisan waters. However the reason for the WHS Unity an Oscar-II class SSGN was to monitor pirates we detected nearing Parilisa, the only reason it was a SSGN was that the Unity was the closest submarine able to respond.

Secondly when a pirate suicide tanker exploded the crew of the Unity had there passive sonar arrays overloaded so they decided that an emergency blow would help them avoid taking damage from any debris. After reaching communications depth, which is much shallower then missile launch depth I hasten to add, I wish to point that the submarine wasn't contacted neither by standard comms, hydrophone nor any other form of communications, however we do not know at this point if the Unity had sustained any damage so it could have been quite possible that there comms were down. This could. Upon detecting not just one but three Parilisan Attack subs baring down upon them, the captain made the only sensible choice and tried to evade.

After successfully evading the Parilisan subs, presumably Parilisa called for support from ODECON fleets already in the area due to the pirates, this assistance came in the form of Britannican Adenia’s surface fleet and a Parilisan fleet launched from the Port of Exengrad. The submarine captain continued to evade the combined fleets, it was at this time that Britannican Adenia's fleet opened fire first, prompting the Unity to fire torpedoes and noise makers in self defence.

Round about this time, we had been out of contact with the Unity so following standard procedure we deployed any nearby assets to ascertain its location, however the closest surface fleet was Battle group Fell under the 3rd Wolf's Marshall Decker. This prompted us to task the 54th Wolfpack of eight Typhoon class SSBNs and a near by Nachmere Carrier task force. These forces arrived on scene and inquired about whether they had picked up a submarine in Parilisan waters, both ODECON members fleets denied that they were chasing a submarine despite there deployments to the contrary. Even after this was pointed out Parilisan and Britannican Adenia’s forces opened fire on Nachmerian aircraft without warning.

This led us to believe that they were hunting the Unity and following an attack on our ally, we engaged. As the conflict ensued Wolf pack 054 went to full attack speed and launched themselves at the combined fleets, trying to locate the Unity, as the Unity tried to make it to make it to the safety of the Nachmerian carrier group it was sunk. In the case on the attack on the port of Exengrad, that was the last act of Wolfpack 54 who were all sunk moments after they launched their missiles. Also at this time a Sutufinai naval group was wiped out by a blue-on-blue accident with Nachmere, this was a unfortunate occurrence with the majority of the blame falling on Wolf Hold forces for not informing either side of the others nature.

By this time the Nachmerian Carrier group had sustained heavy casualties and so in an attempt to save their carrier group, Battlegroup Fell which was just arriving in the AO launched missile attacks on the Parilisan Fleet in an attempt to take some of the fire off the Nachmerian battlegroup. During this period of time missiles originating from a Leistungi ship managed to break through the CIWS of Battlegroup Fell and they managed to sink a Marshall Class Super Carrier with most hands on board as well as a missile hitting the super structure of the WHS Fell and setting it on fire as well as killing several of the CIC crew, including the 3rd Wolf's Marshall Decker. Upon his death, and the successful withdrawal of the Nachmerian Carrier group, a cease fire was called and Battlegroup Fell was escorted out of the area by allied CIS fleets from Cukrica, Osea and The Void Templar.

Finally we were called here by Parilisa and that is the chain of events according to our data and analysis."

Fell took his seat again and listened to all the other delegates prattle on. However on hearing the Leistungi and Parilsan peace terms, Wolf's Marshall Evans jumped up and slammed his fist on the table. Staring across at the Parilisan President his voice, not raised but it conveyed the anger inside it.

"You have more chance of me putting a bullet between your eyes Klein then of me signing to those terms."

"If I may, honorable delegates?" started Novacek quietly. "I would like to ask why the Parilisan Navy felt so threatened as to attack an unidentified submarine? If they couldn't identify it, how did they determine it was a ballistic missile submarine? And even then I believe no sane nation on the planet would be so reckless as to destroy the submarine. What if it had been an allied or Parilisan submarine that had had some accident befall it, causing it to not be able to communicate or surface? Such events have happened in the past and will doubtlessly happen again. Most navies would track the vessel and monitor, not simply blow it out of the water. It strikes me as unreasonable to place the blame solely on the Wolf Holder's actions, or the actions of their allies."

"Evans, you will seat yourself this moment or I will ensure that you are thrown off this vehicle without so much as a hand on the brake lever. This is no place for that comment. Owenson, you too. Contain yourselves this instant lest I declare this conference finished."

The Commandant had reappeared, back to his usual authoritativeness. He had come back in to watch Evans slam his fist on the table and comment upon shooting the Parilisan president between the eyes. This conference didn't need so much a mediator as an umpire.

"If I may, honorable delegates?" started Novacek quietly. "I would like to ask why the Parilisan Navy felt so threatened as to attack an unidentified submarine? If they couldn't identify it, how did they determine it was a ballistic missile submarine? And even then I believe no sane nation on the planet would be so reckless as to destroy the submarine. What if it had been an allied or Parilisan submarine that had had some accident befall it, causing it to not be able to communicate or surface? Such events have happened in the past and will doubtlessly happen again. Most navies would track the vessel and monitor, not simply blow it out of the water. It strikes me as unreasonable to place the blame solely on the Wolf Holder's actions, or the actions of their allies."

"A ballistic missile submarine is surprisingly easy to identify - certainly, our own fleets carry members of the Royal Observation Corps on board. He immediately recognised it as an Oscar-II class when the submarine surfaced. I may continue by adding that an unknown submarine capable of destroying a very large portion of a nation already on high alert appearing in national waters is not something one simply tracks!

"It was only when the Adenian ROC Officer formally identified the submarine as a Wolf Holdian one that we launched torpedoes, furthermore, and not a moment sooner. The immediate decision to run was what secured that submarine's downfall. I can wholeheartedly say for certain that had they simply identified themselves and came to a halt, this situation could have been entirely avoided."

Short and sweet, Lorden-Owensons reply. It would answer the man's question.

"However, to the delegates from the Wolf Hold, despite being persistently told that we were not hunting any submarines - a comment made by choice of the commander - you decided to ignore international protocol and breach the boundary anyway, committing to offensive acts in the first place. Curious, no?"

"It was only when the Adenian ROC Officer formally identified the submarine as a Wolf Holdian one that we launched torpedoes, furthermore, and not a moment sooner. The immediate decision to run was what secured that submarine's downfall. I can wholeheartedly say for certain that had they simply identified themselves and came to a halt, this situation could have been entirely avoided."

Evans was still in a cold rage and his attention turned to the Adenian delegate,

"How the heck do you not know we export are submarines? Did your so called observer halt to think that it could well of been a submarine bought off are nation! Also the submarine NEVER, I repeat NEVER surfaced, it came to comms depth, for reasons I have already explained. Another point to make is that it was running for international waters, if a submarine intends to strike wouldn't it of fired its missiles then run? Or for that matter, ran just a bit further down the coast! Frankly sir you accuse my ally of miss-information and now you feed us this garbage. Your officer was a trigger happy fool that cost you a great many sailors."

"I find it extremely hard to believe that one felt threatened by a submarine's mere existence, particularly when said submarine hadn't done anything to be warranted hostile." replied Novacek. "I also find it extremely careless that neither ODECON fleet attempted to contact the submarine before firing on it."

"May I ask how you knew it was Wolf Holdian in nature? While I'm an land warrior myself, I have seen no submarines of any navy that hold anything close to a identifying mark outside of flag. And even then the flag is only flown while on the surface. The way I see it is that the neither side communicated their intentions, the ODECON forces overreacted and fired upon the submarine which was forced to defend itself."

Evans was still in a cold rage and his attention turned to the Adenian delegate,

"How the heck do you not know we export are submarines? Did your so called observer halt to think that it could well of been a submarine bought off are nation! Also the submarine NEVER, I repeat NEVER surfaced, it came to comms depth, for reasons I have already explained. Another point to make is that it was running for international waters, if a submarine intends to strike wouldn't it of fired its missiles then run? Or for that matter, ran just a bit further down the coast! Frankly sir you accuse my ally of miss-information and now you feed us this garbage. Your officer was a trigger happy fool that cost you a great many sailors."

"And yours was a genocidal maniac by comparison. Comms depth is more than sufficient to be hailed - hell, I have heard the transcripts myself - and the frequency from the propellers and reactor were pure Holdian. Sir, you are a cad and a fraud. No sane nation runs a ballistic missile submarine for pirate-hunting, and no sane nation does not respond when hailed to. The Adenian Officer in command followed protocol exactly and you sir were on the verge of having war declared - yours is not even close to a position where you may be accusing anyone of garbage!"

Taking a deep breath, he turned to the Oseatan.

"Sir, I have it on excellent authority that Holdian submarines have refitted propellers - the frequency from these propellers and reactor noise were identified by a trained operative as being unique to operating submarines from the Wolf Hold - surprisingly easy, therefore, to identify a submarine from any nation that commits to it's own repairs on it's vessels.

"What no sane nation does is attack a submarine it doesn't fully know the origins of." muttered Novacek as he leaned back in his seat. "Shoot first, ask questions later isn't a viable option when the target at hand is a SSBN. For all you know the submarine might have had it's comms damaged to the point it couldn't communicate, and in any case you fired on the submarine! The Wolf Hold has already stated why they sent a ballistic missile submarine into the region, it was the closest to the pirate situation!"

"While the Wolf Hold may not be able to level claims and accusations, I'm going to. As a third party who goes only off the reports you all have given, I'd be hard pressed to claim the Wolf Holdians are the sole bearer of responsibility. Your nation acted just as irresponsibly as Wolf Hold did, if not more!"

“If we are to study a map of the incident, sir, we shall see quite clearly that you did “just a bit further down the coast”. The Holdian vessel clearly should have replied to the contact made by the Parilisan submarine. Your version of events is flawed and cannot be backed up by any evidence. What interest can you possibly have in protecting Parilisa, a nation who would have no trade with you, from piracy? What interest so great that it involves a large fleet close to Parilisa? This outburst cannot hope to stand up before any serious criticism.” Said Klein, standing once more.

“Regardless of your excuses, you must be aware that any military activity around Parilisa would be illegal without permission, regardless of your nationality or intention. If you really did want to come pirate hunting, and you have no need to do so, you should have asked permission from the authorities. What is more, to have a ballistic missile submarine close to the port of Exengrad was an act of war. And before you claim that you had no intent to bring harm to Exengrad, any I point out that you have made no sign of apology for and made no clear statement denying your intent to do anything other than kill civilians in the city.”

“Your rude refusal to sign any form of peace deal is disheartening, and I can only come to the conclusion that you have no hope for peace. As for putting a bullet between my eyes; you are not the first person to threaten me like that, and nor shall you be the last. This is the kind of savagery I have come to expect when dealing with your nation.”

“And concerning the Oseaton suggestion that we had no need to feel threatened by the submarine in our waters, the submarine capable of launching nuclear warheads at civilian targets, the submarine capable of atrocity and damage which refused to explain its intent or nature, the submarine which no nation would tolerate operating in sovereign waters; I struggle to see how any military person such as yourself could not understand the need to eradicate such a threat.”

"And yours was a genocidal maniac by comparison. Comms depth is more than sufficient to be hailed - hell, I have heard the transcripts myself - and the frequency from the propellers and reactor were pure Holdian. Sir, you are a cad and a fraud. No sane nation runs a ballistic missile submarine for pirate-hunting, and no sane nation does not respond when hailed to. The Adenian Officer in command followed protocol exactly and you sir were on the verge of having war declared - yours is not even close to a position where you may be accusing anyone of garbage!"

Taking a deep breath, he turned to the Oseatan.

"Sir, I have it on excellent authority that Holdian submarines have refitted propellers - the frequency from these propellers and reactor noise were identified by a trained operative as being unique to operating submarines from the Wolf Hold - surprisingly easy, therefore, to identify a submarine from any nation that commits to it's own repairs on it's vessels.

"Are you deaf man! Or is that how it works in your nation, that you rise to power through pure stupidity! How do we not know that the submarine had not been damged and its comms knocked out! All that would of appeared to the submarine captain were three attack subs baring down on his one submarine, would you remain there and wait to be fired upon? I don't think so, you are more likly to piss your pants and go crying to your mother.

Yet again I'll educate you, we export our submarines as well as use them for internal use! For all your officer could of know that could of been any number of nations that decided to buy that submarine design. Yet agin I must point out that your officer was a trigger happy idiot and you sir are almost on the same level of idocy"

“And concerning the Oseaton suggestion that we had no need to feel threatened by the submarine in our waters, the submarine capable of launching nuclear warheads at civilian targets, the submarine capable of atrocity and damage which refused to explain its intent or nature, the submarine which no nation would tolerate operating in sovereign waters; I struggle to see how any military person such as yourself could not understand the need to eradicate such a threat.”

"I realize the threat to the nation, but I also know the Oseaton Federal Navy would never fire on an unidentified craft and risk starting a war simply because there is a slight possibility that the craft in question could launch a nuclear strike on Oseato. By all accounts, the submarine was fired on when it was determined to be Wolf Holdian, with no attempt to communicate with it. Also, how did you know their comms gear wasn't damaged?" replied Novacek.

"I am fully aware of the need to eradicate threats, Mr. President. However, I'm also fully aware of the need to not kill everything and anything that is deemed a threat. There were other options you could have taken to assure that your territory was safe. Hell, by your logic I guess my nation should be bombing every missile facility you have and hunting down every Aircraft and Submarine capable of a nuclear strike. But we both know that isn't how the world works."

"Are you deaf man! Or is that how it works in your nation, that you rise to power through pure stupidity! How do we not know that the submarine had not been damged and its comms knocked out! All that would of appeared to the submarine captain were three attack subs baring down on his one submarine, would you remain there and wait to be fired upon? I don't think so, you are more likly to piss your pants and go crying to your mother.

Yet again I'll educate you, we export our submarines as well as use them for internal use! For all your officer could of know that could of been any number of nations that decided to buy that submarine design. Yet agin I must point out that your officer was a trigger happy idiot and you sir are almost on the same level of idocy"

The Hegemon, who had been silent until now, leaned forward and gave the Wolf-Holdian a warm smile. "Come now sir, must we be uncivil? I don't know how much the Wolf Hold cares for it's citizens, but in the Holy Empire if we were to encounter a non-responding ballistic-missile submarine in our national waters, we would shoot first and ask questions later. In such a case the potential loss that would result from inaction, given the capability of a ballistic missile submarine to inflict massive amounts of destruction upon any nation, is far greater than that of firing against a non-hostile submarine. It may be difficult for you to understand, but the first priority of the Parilisan navy and the Adenian forces assiting them was to protect the Parilisan people, not to protect foreign military vessels that were illegaly in their waters. As for your exportation claims, it makes little difference what nation could have sent the submarine illegally, for none that use the model would have had a right to position missile submarines in Parilisan waters."

"What no sane nation does is attack a submarine it doesn't fully know the origins of." muttered Novacek as he leaned back in his seat. "Shoot first, ask questions later isn't a viable option when the target at hand is a SSBN. For all you know the submarine might have had it's comms damaged to the point it couldn't communicate, and in any case you fired on the submarine! The Wolf Hold has already stated why they sent a ballistic missile submarine into the region, it was the closest to the pirate situation!"

"While the Wolf Hold may not be able to level claims and accusations, I'm going to. As a third party who goes only off the reports you all have given, I'd be hard pressed to claim the Wolf Holdians are the sole bearer of responsibility. Your nation acted just as irresponsibly as Wolf Hold did, if not more!"

"I beg your pardon sir? Irresponsible? Tell me, sir, did the Wolf Holdians intend to attack the pirates with nuclear weapons? A ballistic missile submarine is not a pirate-fighting tool, sir, it is a weapon of mass destruction. A destroyer, a cruiser, an attack submarine are all suitable. More than a dozen intercontinental missiles are not. That just doesn't fly with anyone with a modicum of common sense sir, and it most certainly doesn't fly with me.

"Faulty electronics, however? They had apparently come to communications depth, they had observed that multiple ships were heading toward them, and yet their communications were faulty? What need would they have to come to communications depth other than - conveniently - that it is also the correct depth with which to launch missiles? If they had been honest men with pure intentions they would have surfaced properly and explained the situation. Instead, like a child with it's hand in the biscuit tin, they ran. No expert am I, but really - one does not need further proof of malicious intent. What next, that they were unsure about the language? Tell me, sir, that you would not have done the same. A submarine, originating from the Wolf Hold, at missile-launch depth, refusing to respond to hails, diving after being spotted. Really, you would simply let that go?"

"I beg your pardon sir? Irresponsible? Tell me, sir, did the Wolf Holdians intend to attack the pirates with nuclear weapons? A ballistic missile submarine is not a pirate-fighting tool, sir, it is a weapon of mass destruction. A destroyer, a cruiser, an attack submarine are all suitable. More than a dozen intercontinental missiles are not. That just doesn't fly with anyone with a modicum of common sense sir, and it most certainly doesn't fly with me.

"Faulty electronics, however? They had apparently come to communications depth, they had observed that multiple ships were heading toward them, and yet their communications were faulty? What need would they have to come to communications depth other than - conveniently - that it is also the correct depth with which to launch missiles? If they had been honest men with pure intentions they would have surfaced properly and explained the situation. Instead, like a child with it's hand in the biscuit tin, they ran. No expert am I, but really - one does not need further proof of malicious intent. What next, that they were unsure about the language? Tell me, sir, that you would not have done the same. A submarine, originating from the Wolf Hold, at missile-launch depth, refusing to respond to hails, diving after being spotted. Really, you would simply let that go?"

"That is a irrelevant point! The Oscar-II class is not designed as a ballistic missile submarine! It is designed as a guided missile submarine, therefore it could quite easily combat pirates. If you intended to accuse us with threatening to use nuclear weapons on another nation then please research the specifications of the boat you are saying we intended to use. This shows how far the depths of your stupidity reach, please refrain from making an intellectual comment when you yourself do not have all the facts.

Whilst I do not deny that it was their illegally, in this world International law seems mute when compared to the size of nations and their allies. My counterpart in Oseato has a valid point as well, so yes I still maintain the point that you fired without clear consideration, thought and sense. Such actions that led to the deaths of many sailors."

"That is a ireleavent point! The Oscar-II class is not designed as a ballistic missile submarine! It is designed as a guided missile submarine, therefore it could quite easily combat pirates. If you inteded to acuse us with trheating to use nuclear weapons on another nation then please research the specifcations of the boat you are saying we inteded to use. This shows how far the depths of your stupidty reach, please refrian from making an interlectual comment when you yourself do not have all the facts.

Whilst I do not deny that it was their illegally, in this world International law seems mute when compared to the size of nations and their allies. My counterpart in Oseato has a valid point as well, so yes I still maintain the point that you fired without clear consideration, thought and sense. Such actions that led to the deaths of many sailors."

"Design does not equal intent of use. It is capable of nuclear weapons, therefore we must assume it carries them. It's simple sir, really it is. Your illegal presence led to their deaths, and your honour is non-existent. Your men's blood is on your hands, not ours, and no amount of blame-shifting will relieve it. You, sir, are the Lady Macbeth in this room, no-one else. "

"I beg your pardon sir? Irresponsible? Tell me, sir, did the Wolf Holdians intend to attack the pirates with nuclear weapons? A ballistic missile submarine is not a pirate-fighting tool, sir, it is a weapon of mass destruction. A destroyer, a cruiser, an attack submarine are all suitable. More than a dozen intercontinental missiles are not. That just doesn't fly with anyone with a modicum of common sense sir, and it most certainly doesn't fly with me.

"Faulty electronics, however? They had apparently come to communications depth, they had observed that multiple ships were heading toward them, and yet their communications were faulty? What need would they have to come to communications depth other than - conveniently - that it is also the correct depth with which to launch missiles? If they had been honest men with pure intentions they would have surfaced properly and explained the situation. Instead, like a child with it's hand in the biscuit tin, they ran. No expert am I, but really - one does not need further proof of malicious intent. What next, that they were unsure about the language? Tell me, sir, that you would not have done the same. A submarine, originating from the Wolf Hold, at missile-launch depth, refusing to respond to hails, diving after being spotted. Really, you would simply let that go?"

"Quite clearly,sir, you have spent no time in the military. Even SSBN's are armed with torpedoes and can be equipped for special operations missions. While they aren't the preferred tool for such operations, they can have their uses. Simply because you do not use them in such roles doesn't mean the Wolf Holdians should be condemned for it!" responded Novacek. He was becoming increasing irritated with the lack of understanding and logic shown by several of the ODECON members.

"Are you hard of hearing, sir? It has already been explained that the submarine moved to comm depth in order to avoid damage from the exploding tanker. Have you ever heard an explosion underwater, while monitoring sonar? I assure you, it's quite painful to the ears and can cause immeasurable damage to a submarine. What would you have them do? The Sub has no way of communicating and has 3 foreign submarines bearing down on him? Of course he is going to run. According to your logic and those of the fellow ODECON members, he should have fired at the 3 Parilisan subs as soon as they appeared to be closing in. You have no one to blame for this incident but yourselves. You failed to act prudently and instead chose to nearly ignite a war and the somehow have the gall to place all the blame on Wolf Hold. Also, I assure you, Comm depth is different from launch depth, but I guess at this point I shouldn't expect you to know or understand that. And while I can't speak for the Federal Navy, I would indeed allow the submarine to leave Oseaton waters. No harm, no foul, as they say."

Mary chuckled at the Wolf-Holdian's comment. "Surely you do not mean to suggest, sir, that merely because there are other unscrupulous governments who ignore international laws, your government has a right to do so as well? Laws do not exist only to be followed when doing so is convenient."

She sighed, and leaned back. "Wether the submarine was in Parilisan waters for anti-pirate purposes or not is both irrelevant and unprovable. The fact remains that it was in such waters illegally, did not respond to communications, and that therefore it was within protocol and the right of Parilisan and Adenian forces to eliminate any threat that it may have presented through any means neccesary. If the intent of the submarine was to hunt pirates, then its destruction was unfortunate, but still a sensible action in the interest of ensuring the safety of the Parilisan mainland."

"Quite clearly,sir, you have spent no time in the military. Even SSBN's are armed with torpedoes and can be equipped for special operations missions. While they aren't the preferred tool for such operations, they can have their uses. Simply because you do not use them in such roles doesn't mean the Wolf Holdians should be condemned for it!" responded Novacek. He was becoming increasing irritated with the lack of understanding and logic shown by several of the ODECON members.

"Are you hard of hearing, sir? It has already been explained that the submarine moved to comm depth in order to avoid damage from the exploding tanker. Have you ever heard an explosion underwater, while monitoring sonar? I assure you, it's quite painful to the ears and can cause immeasurable damage to a submarine. What would you have them do? The Sub has no way of communicating and has 3 foreign submarines bearing down on him? Of course he is going to run. According to your logic and those of the fellow ODECON members, he should have fired at the 3 Parilisan subs as soon as they appeared to be closing in. You have no one to blame for this incident but yourselves. You failed to act prudently and instead chose to nearly ignite a war and the somehow have the gall to place all the blame on Wolf Hold. Also, I assure you, Comm depth is different from launch depth, but I guess at this point I shouldn't expect you to know or understand that."

"Clearly, sir, I do this for a living, rather than dressing up like a boy soldier and pretending to know diplomacy, much like your quite insane friends. Really, you are out of your depth here - logic would dictate initially that you don't simply waltz into territorial waters with a warship without permission, then berate other nations when we see a threat and move to neutralise it because it was quite obviously acting in a manner that could be said to be both hostile and suspicious. You have no place to question ours when your own would lead to an entire network of cities being levelled."

"Design does not equal intent of use. It is capable of nuclear weapons, therefore we must assume it carries them. It's simple sir, really it is. Your illegal presence led to their deaths, and your honour is non-existent. Your men's blood is on your hands, not ours, and no amount of blame-shifting will relieve it. You, sir, are the Lady Macbeth in this room, no-one else. "

Evans was almost at breaking point, he was nearing the limits of his temper in regards to the BA delegate.

"Of for the love of god! Get some ears man! I have never denied it was illegal, do I have to shove that point down your neck to make you comprehend it. You accuse me of blame shifting, trust me I know full well I am responsible for the deaths of my men but I am not alone. We all are responsible but by your statements you say your officer has no blame to lie with him? I disagree, your officer and your men are vultures who pray on the weakness of others, you say you fight for liberty that ODECON stands for? You however are nothing more then a fascist."

"Mr. Evans, I must ask that you cease flinging ridiculous insults like some small child." The Hegemon said softly, still smiling. "The Adenian naval forces were acting in the defense of the Parilisan people, and to debate their motives further is useless. Is there anything constructive that you may further contribute to the conference that is not finger-pointing or insulting?"

Evans was almost at breaking point, he was nearing the limits of his temper in regards to the BA delegate.

"Of for the love of god! Get some ears man! I have never denied it was illegal, do I have to shove that point down your neck to make you comprehend it. You accuse me of blame shifting, trust me I know full well I am responsible for the deaths of my men but I am not alone. We all are responsible but by your statements you say your officer has no blame to lie with him? I disagree, your officer and your men are vultures who pray on the weakness of others, you say you fight for liberty that ODECON stands for? You however are nothing more then a fascist."

"Those are awfully strong words from a nation aiming to bankrupt itself through military overspending!" He stood, grinning quite clearly at the gaping hole in their defences. "You see, ladies and gentlemen, just why my nation took the action that it did. These men can barely contain themselves in a peace conference, and yet these same men are in charge of some of the most powerful weapons available to mankind. This sort of attitude toward diplomacy and reason in general simply proves to myself that these men simply cannot be trusted to use their weapons in defence of peace! It was peace we strove for when we attacked your submarine - sacrifice the few to save the many, a point well-proven judging by that missile salvo launched at a civilian city. It is to the Parilisan's credit that your nation does not lie obliterated at this moment!

"The Adenia captain - he is not "my" officer, at all, seeing as I am not a serving member of the military - I have done my time with them, I assure you - followed protocol to the letter. It is not vulture-like to defend a nation, sir, and believe me when I say that that is exactly what that officer had in mind when he took a decision he is not proud to make - but will never regret when he thinks of the thousands, if not millions of families he saved that day."

“I think we have had quite enough of your idiocy!” exclaimed Klein, at the suggestion that his ally was a fascist. “You come to a conference meant to keep peace and talk about shooting people in the head, bombing cities and calling people fascists. Are you so ignorant? Are you so ridiculous?”

“I don’t care whether your sub was there to kill or to deliver candy canes to the children of Exengrad; you acted illegally. You had a submarine with nuclear capabilities in Parilisa.” He continued, with sarcasm.

“I notice, by the way, that you have so far neglected to answer several important questions, chief of which is why you have an interest in protecting Parilisan trade from piracy?”

"Clearly, sir, I do this for a living, rather than dressing up like a boy soldier and pretending to know diplomacy, much like your quite insane friends. Really, you are out of your depth here - logic would dictate initially that you don't simply waltz into territorial waters with a warship without permission, then berate other nations when we see a threat and move to neutralise it because it was quite obviously acting in a manner that could be said to be both hostile and suspicious. You have no place to question ours when your own would lead to an entire network of cities being levelled."

Novacek snorted at the intended insult. "Boy soldier? Please sir, it's been some time since I was able to be considered a boy. Don't let this uniform fool you, I'm well versed in diplomacy and war. I only took up the uniform again when my home was threatened by insurgents in Oseato. Before that I was an Oseaton Senator severing on the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. I've served as ambassador to numerous countries, so I would appreciate it if you didn't question my credentials without knowing the full story."

"Logic would dictate that one wouldn't provoke a fight with a SSBN and attack it when you can't confirm it's intentions. As I said to your ally, if my nation was to abide by your 'logic', your respective countries would be reduced to ashes because you might attack the Federation at any time and thus we should remove you as a threat. I think we can both agree that isn't really a logical concept. The Federation of Oseato knows the dangers of nuclear weapons, which is why we've installed another line of defense against nuclear attacks besides just blowing the, and pardon my french, shit out of all 'possible' threats. Perhaps the Federation could offer to educate your nation in the same tactics?"

Novacek snorted at the intended insult. "Boy soldier? Please sir, it's been some time since I was able to be considered a boy. Don't let this uniform fool you, I'm well versed in diplomacy and war. I only took up the uniform again when my home was threatened by insurgents in Oseato. Before that I was an Oseaton Senator severing on the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. I've served as ambassador to numerous countries, so I would appreciate it if you didn't question my credentials without knowing the full story."

"Logic would dictate that one wouldn't provoke a fight with a SSBN and attack it when you can't confirm it's intentions. As I said to your ally, if my nation was to abide by your 'logic', your respective countries would be reduced to ashes because you might attack the Federation at any time and thus we should remove you as a threat. I think we can both agree that isn't really a logical concept. The Federation of Oseato knows the dangers of nuclear weapons, which is why we've installed another line of defense against nuclear attacks besides just blowing the, and pardon my french, shit out of all 'possible' threats. Perhaps the Federation could offer to educate your nation in the same tactics?"

"Perhaps our own officers could school you in the difference between not having relations at all with a nation and sitting a boatload of potential nuclear weapons at someone's door? As you can see, of that salvo of missiles, one did hit it's target. Are you honestly suggesting that Parilisa should take the chance because that submarine might not unload it's cargo at their nation?"

At this point the Sutfen Delegate, the Vice President reached up and grabbed the Wolf Hold delegate's shirt and jerked him down in his seat to get his attention. He growled out, "Calm down... What we need here i not to look like the agressors. We need to look like the wronged. You are letting them take the position as the wronged while you get flustered and infuriated. It makes you look agressive and dangerous. Now calm yourself before you make yourself even further into a dangerous evil lunatic." He whispered, his ears going back before sitting back in his chair and motioning to the Sutfen Admiral who briefly raised a hand to gain attention...

"Excuse me, Excuse me..." The admiral started, "I'm afraid I can state that Sutufinai is not a leader in this whole submarine and nuclear ballistic missile race problem going on." He rubbed his brow lightly, "However, I did a rather lot of information gathering and reading on the subject on the ship ride over here." The admiral looked about the cabin. "Now, correct me if I am wrong. But we all know it as a -ballistic missile- submarine in Parilisan waters, not an attack submarine. Now, I have read that many nations have converted Ballistic missile submarines into cruise missile battery submarines. This however is not the case." He looked about, "Now. Through my research I have found that a Ballistic missile can travel thousands of miles before hitting it's target, as can a Cruise missile. So I am forced to ask, if the Wolf Hold truely wanted to move a missile battery within the range of the Parilisan and Adenian major cities... They would not have to enter the Two Hundred Mile zone that denotes modern international waters of any nation."

The Admiral, who hadn't stood up and had kept his voice civil and level let his ears flick forward, "So, really... If The Wolf Holders had not been hunting pirates or atleast keeping tabs on the pirates until a -suitable surface combatant force- could arrive... Why would any nation put a powder-keg ship and such an expensive ship as a Ballistic Missile Submarine... In danger like that?"

"Perhaps our own officers could school you in the difference between not having relations at all with a nation and sitting a boatload of potential nuclear weapons at someone's door? As you can see, of that salvo of missiles, one did hit it's target. Are you honestly suggesting that Parilisa should take the chance because that submarine might not unload it's cargo at their nation?"

"Sir, that salvo of missiles would have never been launched had you not overreacted and fired on the submarine. What I suggest is that you don't bring war upon yourselves. The Federation of Oseato would never be so reckless to start a war simply because we 'think' there is an enemy submarine is out there and randomly draw the conclusion that they are going to attack. You said you had recordings of the screws and reactor? You could have obviously monitored the submarine for the opening of missile tubes of the submarine, a clear sign that it was hostile. Instead you just assumed it was hostile and brought about this series of events. Does your nation do everything this half-assed?"

"Sir, that salvo of missiles would have never been launched had you not overreacted and fired on the submarine. What I suggest is that you don't bring war upon yourselves. The Federation of Oseato would never be so reckless to start a war simply because we 'think' there is an enemy submarine is out there and randomly draw the conclusion that they are going to attack. You said you had recordings of the screws and reactor? You could have obviously monitored the submarine for the opening of missile tubes of the submarine, a clear sign that it was hostile. Instead you just assumed it was hostile and brought about this series of events. Does your nation do everything this half-assed?"

"By which time it would have been too late. Does every idea you mention come half-baked?"

"By which time it would have been too late. Does every idea you mention come half-baked?"

"Too late sir? You yourself stated only one missile made it through. Is your navy that unprepared for rapid action that it couldn't terminate a submarine and several launched missiles given advanced notice? They say ballistic missiles are easiest to shoot down while in their first stage."

"Too late sir? You yourself stated only one missile made it through. Is your navy that unprepared for rapid action that it couldn't terminate a submarine and several launched missiles given advanced notice? They say ballistic missiles are easiest to shoot down while in their first stage."

"My god! Only one? Is that not enough to warrant an act of hostility? The destruction of an office block in Exengrad is not some small issue which can be brushed aside, sir! There are people dead. There would be more, but we took the action to remove the initial threat from the sea. Maybe you do things differently in your country, but we prefer to act before people loose their lives, rather than in blind, useless vengeance afterwards."

((OOC: So, my post was completely ignored? *sigh*)

OOC: WH will be writing a reply.

"Too late sir? You yourself stated only one missile made it through. Is your navy that unprepared for rapid action that it couldn't terminate a submarine and several launched missiles given advanced notice?"

"Considering the distances involved in your rather cute little utopian vision, very little at all would have been able to stop missiles being launched before it was destroyed. Pre-emptive action was necessary, and pre-emptive action saved lives. That is all there is to it. By destroying that submarine, lives were saved. None of which, of course, changes the fact that your blind belief in the Wolf Hold's versions, despite evidence from several nations to the contrary, rather disturbs me. I'll tell you what. I'll have a word with our admirals, and have one of our ballistic missile submarines parked off your coast. When it doesn't respond to hailing, and dives instead, we'll let you monitor it as it makes along your coastline travelling silently. Perhaps we'll even launch some nuclear missiles, perhaps not. Are you honestly telling me that you value your citizens lives so cheaply that you would allow us to do that?"

OOC: I will? Okay fair enough, oh and Sutufiani post in the other god damned thread

((Reserved for IC post))

"My god! Only one? Is that not enough to warrant an act of hostility? The destruction of an office block in Exengrad is not some small issue which can be brushed aside, sir! There are people dead. There would be more, but we took the action to remove the initial threat from the sea. Maybe you do things differently in your country, but we prefer to act before people loose their lives, rather than in blind, useless vengeance afterwards."

"You missed the point,sir. What I am saying is that when the missiles were launched you were able to shoot most of them down, yes? If you have advanced warning of a missile launch, and are able to take down the sub before it can launch it's full compliment then your forces would have been able to shoot down any threats coming at them. That is even assuming the submarine was hostile to begin with." sighed Novacek.

"My country holds great reverence for the lives of it's citizens, just as you do. However, we also value the lives of others and are not willing to go wantonly and recklessly attacking foreign vessels, as well as nearly kicking off a war, because the might be able to do harm to us. If you had left the ship alone, and it had not fired because it wasn't threatened, how many of your citizens would be dead now?"

Minister Kirsch rubbed his temples in irritation. "The submarine in question could have launched a strike which would have annihilated Parilisa in less than a minute, had they been nuclear missiles. I have heard several claims that 'this would never have happened.' Does anyone care to remember that it did happen?"

OOC: This is the equivalent of JFK allowing the USSR to place missiles in Cuba, for the record. Except that in this case, the missiles are pre-fueled and can be launched without warning, impacting in about a minute.

Alessandra nodded to Kirsch.

"How many Holdian sailors would be dead right now if they hadn't attacked Parilisa? We can ask such rhetorical questions all day and never get anywhere. We must speak of what did happen, not what might have or what should have. Nothing excuses launching missiles that could well be nuclear armed against civilian targets. If Exengrad had lesser defense systems, as many cities in this world do, it would not have been just one missile."

"You missed the point,sir. What I am saying is that when the missiles were launched you were able to shoot most of them down, yes? If you have advanced warning of a missile launch, and are able to take down the sub before it can launch it's full compliment then your forces would have been able to shoot down any threats coming at them. That is even assuming the submarine was hostile to begin with." sighed Novacek.

"My country holds great reverence for the lives of it's citizens, just as you do. However, we also value the lives of others and are not willing to go wantonly and recklessly attacking foreign vessels, as well as nearly kicking off a war, because the might be able to do harm to us. If you had left the ship alone, and it had not fired because it wasn't threatened, how many of your citizens would be dead now?"

"Irrelevant. The fact is that the ship had the capability to carry nuclear missiles. The fact is that the submarine attempted to escape from under the watch of Adenian submarines. The fact is that all of these were reasonably construed as an attempt to evade capture with an intent to launch missiles. What part of this, sir, are you not understanding? Would you perhaps be happier proved right and not be here right now because the land is an irradiated waste?"

"Considering the distances involved in your rather cute little utopian vision, very little at all would have been able to stop missiles being launched before it was destroyed. Pre-emptive action was necessary, and pre-emptive action saved lives. That is all there is to it. By destroying that submarine, lives were saved. None of which, of course, changes the fact that your blind belief in the Wolf Hold's versions, despite evidence from several nations to the contrary, rather disturbs me. I'll tell you what. I'll have a word with our admirals, and have one of our ballistic missile submarines parked off your coast. When it doesn't respond to hailing, and dives instead, we'll let you monitor it as it makes along your coastline travelling silently. Perhaps we'll even launch some nuclear missiles, perhaps not. Are you honestly telling me that you value your citizens lives so cheaply that you would allow us to do that?"

"Pre-emptive action is never justified unless you can clearly see an attack is underway or about to be underway, I'd suggest you read up on Mill's and Mahan's Just War Theory. In this case you had no evidence that this submarine was hostile, you simply assumed it was because of your navy's negligence." replied Novacek

"I assure you sir, any attempt to move ODECON ships into Oseaton Territorial Waters at this juncture will result in an immediate declaration of war and the eradication of all ODECON ships in the vicinity, as we know the nationality of the sub in question as well as it's intentions. However if another nation was to venture a submarine in Oseaton waters, we would attempt contact and monitor it. If it didn't respond we'd continue to monitor it. The only reason we'd attack it would be if we knew, undeniably that the submarine was about to launch missiles. The way we protect our citizens is by not randomly firing on everything that might be conceived as a threat. I think you'll find that it keeps out of most wars and thus limits casualties."

“And then, as you watched from your comfortable position behind the enemy ship, it launches its missiles. They tear through the sky, shatter your cities, eradicate your industry, fill your children with radiation sickness and cause general chaos and oblivion. When your government building comprises of a heap of scorched masonry, when your streets are filled with corpses, you will be able to sit amidst the smoke and flames and think to yourself “At least I did well by Mill's and Mahan's Just War Theory”. I think not, sir.”

"Unfortunately this is not how nuclear war works -- if a ballistic missile submarine is hovering thirty seconds from Falkenberg (besides the obvious question of why it is there in the first place), we contact once, and then fire," Admiral Junker replied. "In fact, protocol is simply to fire, as SSBNs are weapons of war and therefore disallowed in territorial waters by Leistungi law (and the law of near every nation on the planet). The presence of a ballistic missile submarine in Parilisan territorial waters meant that some nation, any nation, was planning to face the consequences for being there.

"I'm sure I don't need to tell you that facing those consequences could very well mean launching the payload that submarine is equipped to launch. We simply cannot take that chance with any nation's submarines -- it was there illegally, and it refused to respond. We had no choice but to assume it was preparing to fire."

Minister Kirsch piped in next, still rubbing his temples. "Hell, it should be the government of the Wolf Hold which is apologizing to us for the loss of life caused as a direct result of their completely illegal action. And by the way, has one person here attempted to explain why proper response for military casualties incurred because of an illegal deployment is a massive strike on civilian targets?"

Alessandra nodded to Kirsch.

"How many Holdian sailors would be dead right now if they hadn't attacked Parilisa? We can ask such rhetorical questions all day and never get anywhere. We must speak of what did happen, not what might have or what should have. Nothing excuses launching missiles that could well be nuclear armed against civilian targets. If Exengrad had lesser defense systems, as many cities in this world do, it would not have been just one missile."

"The submariners of the SSBN would be dead. As I recall, one of the ODECON delegates admitted that they fired on the sub before the sub had launched any missiles.

"Irrelevant. The fact is that the ship had the capability to carry nuclear missiles. The fact is that the submarine attempted to escape from under the watch of Adenian submarines. The fact is that all of these were reasonably construed as an attempt to evade capture with an intent to launch missiles. What part of this, sir, are you not understanding? Would you perhaps be happier proved right and not be here right now because the land is an irradiated waste?"

"You're nation has the ability to launch nuclear missiles at mine, I guess it's alright with you if I inform my superiors that they are allowed, by your very own justification, to bomb your nation to the point where they can no longer wage war?"

"Pathetic. Truly, truly pathetic. Let's review the facts.

"The Wolf Hold leadership organised and mounted a faux-attack at a diplomatic function on a Parilisan civilian airport. Two weeks later, a submarine originating from the Wolf Hold turns up with a potential nuclear payload capable of hitting a Parilisan city within a minute of launch, which, upon being hailed and being at comms depth despite having curiously broken comms equipment - which raises several questions in itself, notably the surprisingly quick arrival of another "wolf pack" which would have known of nothing had the vessel had truly broken communications, because it would have been incapable of communicating a help message - rather than clarifying their situation by surfacing, decided to dive and attempt to evade following ships by running silently whilst, rather than following a channel out to international waters, following the Parilisan coastline. Negligence would be not attacking, sir, and you are talking tommyrot. You can spout hypotheticals and books all you like, but that does not change that a WMD was in Parilisan waters illegally, refused to leave, and then decided to run silently. Do tell me sir, the exact reason we should have let that go and turn back?"

“And then, as you watched from your comfortable position behind the enemy ship, it launches its missiles. They tear through the sky, shatter your cities, eradicate your industry, fill your children with radiation sickness and cause general chaos and oblivion. When your government building comprises of a heap of scorched masonry, when your streets are filled with corpses, you will be able to sit amidst the smoke and flames and think to yourself “At least I did well by Mill's and Mahan's Just War Theory”. I think not, sir.”

"Sir, The Federal Air Force and Federal Navy are well equipped with technology to shoot down any missile threat, especially one where we are able to fire on the missile during it's initial launch phase. We feel comfortable enough to allow the enemy sub to be monitored closely by the Oseaton Federal Navy. I sincerely doubt the missile sub would be able to launch more than 2 or 3 missiles before it was destroyed. 2 or 3 missiles are an easily handled threat when an entire navy is present as well as the usual ABM components. Atleast in the Federation. So I believe my nation can sit back and say 'I'm the morally correct party in this action' while still safely in it's own capital."

"As for the distinguished delegate from Leistung, the WH ship would have never fired it's missiles had not ODECON forces attack it first."

"Sir, The Federal Air Force and Federal Navy are well equipped with technology to shoot down any missile threat, especially one where we are able to fire on the missile during it's initial launch phase. We feel comfortable enough to allow the enemy sub to be monitored closely by the Oseaton Federal Navy. I sincerely doubt the missile sub would be able to launch more than 2 or 3 missiles before it was destroyed. 2 or 3 missiles are an easily handled threat when an entire navy is present as well as the usual ABM components. Atleast in the Federation. So I believe my nation can sit back and say 'I'm the morally correct party in this action' while still safely in it's own capital."

"As for the distinguished delegate from Leistung, the WH ship would have never fired it's missiles had not ODECON forces attack it first."

"Unfortunately, the Parilisans are not so desperately afraid of aggravating another nation so that they can expect total nuclear war. And it's good to know that we have a psychic in our presence. Perhaps you'd like to read my thoughts too?"

Tzetzes finally spoke up, with some irritation in his voice "I have to agree with Minister Kirsch. We are not going to achieve anything by discussing what we think should have happened. I also believe we should concentrate on using the established facts rather than out own opinions. Finally I think I should remind some of the ambassadors here that we are here to try and sort out a peaceful settlement and perhaps we should get back to that".

"Can you say that with certainty? No? Nor can we, I'm afraid, which is why after diving and following the Parilisan coastline, we assumed that it would. The submarine's missiles would have been airborne for, say, thirty seconds, and no anti-ballistic missile system I know of is 100% effective when it is given ample time to respond. One missile would have spelled doom for millions.

"You have no grip on the seriousness of the situation here. The submarine could have launched twenty-four missiles in less time than I could blink. Now please, back to what did happen."

"Can you say that with certainty? No? Nor can we, I'm afraid, which is why after diving and following the Parilisan coastline, we assumed that it would. The submarine's missiles would have been airborne for, say, thirty seconds, and no anti-ballistic missile system I know of is 100% effective when it is given ample time to respond. One missile would have spelled doom for millions.

"You have no grip on the seriousness of the situation here. The submarine could have launched twenty-four missiles in less time than I could blink. Now please, back to what did happen."
"Unfortunately, the Parilisans are not so desperately afraid of aggravating another nation so that they can expect total nuclear war. And it's good to know that we have a psychic in our presence. Perhaps you'd like to read my thoughts too?"

"Can I say that with certainty? Sure, to a large degree I can. I'll raise the same point the Sutfen delegate made. If the submarine was going to attack with missiles capable of travel well beyond a 200 mile range, why would it endanger itself, a rather expensive ship, to the combinded ODECON navies that were known to be in the area? I'd also like to see the submarine that can withstand the pressure of launching 24 missiles in half a second." retorted Novacek.

"The Federation of Oseato is not afraid of offending other nations, it simply would rather run the risk of having to expend a few ABM in the unlikely event that an attack is launched instead of firing on an unidentified ship and running the risk of starting a war with much larger casualties. While no ABM system is 100% effective, if you layer you forces enough and have forces directly in the area the missile is being launched, you get a high probability of scoring a hit on the missile."

OOC: The missile thing was meant to be an exaggeration, not a serious statement.

"Because it was on a first strike mission. If it had launched from further out, Parilisa could have obliterated the Wolfs Hold by the time the missiles landed -- in this situation, their nuclear capacity would have been destroyed. Honestly my friend, this is elementary submarine tactics.

"This is an SLBM moving at a ballistic trajectory and hypersonic speeds. I would very much like to see the nation which can shoot down an entire boatload worth of SLBMs with five seconds warning with complete impunity."

"Can I say that with certainty? Sure, to a large degree I can. I'll raise the same point the Sutfen delegate made. If the submarine was going to attack with missiles capable of travel well beyond a 200 mile range, why would it endanger itself, a rather expensive ship, to the combinded ODECON navies that were known to be in the area? I'd also like to see the submarine that can withstand the pressure of launching 24 missiles in half a second." retorted Novacek.

"Why indeed - perhaps the Wolf Hold delegates can tell us, seeing as they did exactly that!"

The heated debate had not gone unnoticed by the Commandant, who in the midst of the uproar had rapped once more on the door. 4 more guards had promptly appeared, two at each end of the cabin. Pistols had been holstered, but their hands never left their holsters once as they fanned out around the cabin. The Holdians had been getting far too agitated, and as military men with no sense of honour (at least as far as Adenians were concerned), they would have to be kept an eye on in case they decided to make things physical.

The Commandant stepped forward again. "Once again, this has veered far off course and tempers have become extremely raised. I will have no more of it. You will all remain seated and civil, or you will be removed to your cabin. Do I make myself quite clear?"

Hollander sighed again, as the vitriol increased on both sides of the issue. It was apparent now that nothing positive would come from this conference. Thus, it was time to take an extreme step.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I feel that there has been more than sufficient time for both sides to cool down and attempt to continue this conference with at least a minimum of civility and diplomacy. Clearly, this has not occurred. When representatives on both sides are still so impassioned as to stir up the same ill feelings that created this crisis, it is evident that no diplomatic effort will succeed."

Pausing briefly before continuing he added, "Thus, I move to immediately propose that this conference be adjourned, until such time as representatives from the Wolf Hold, Parilisa, and associated allied states are capable of conducting a meeting without such overt posturing and aggression. In the interim between this conference and the next, I wish to propose that a state of cease-fire be enacted between Wolf Hold and Parilisan forces, which shall not be violated by either nation under penalty of swift condemnation and potential military action by every party present today. In addition, I move that the issue of reparations for the missile strike against Exengard be postponed until such time as Wolf Hold and Parilisan representatives might meet without threatening to destroy each other."

Hollander knew that there was no chance his proposal would be accepted, as passions were too inflamed on both sides for the matter to simply drop. The Wolf Hold and its allies appeared more and more dead-set on provoking a wide-spread conflict, while Salzland's allies representing the various involved ODECON member-states were letting themselves be baited into debating impossible scenarios based on total ignorance of military matters, designed solely at permitting the Wolf Hold to gain the moral high ground.

Only one thing was certain; should the conference continue as it presently was, it would end in bloodshed and potentially, considering the threats presented, a full-scale nuclear war. Something had to be done, and quickly.

Komnenos' face had been growing less and less indicative during the heated exchanges, a sure sign (for those who had dealt with the Empire in the past) that a lot of thinking was going on behind the scenes. He rose just as the Salzlander had finished.

"One point was glanced on a few moments ago, delegates, that I would like expand upon as we adjourn. The Wolf Hold claims that the submarine in question was incapable of responding to the hails of the Parilisan forces."

"Yet, the Wolf Hold has also claimed that it was able to send a distress signal to the 'coincidentally' nearest wolfpack of Typhoon-class submarines. Does not this inconsistency deserve further investigation?"

He turned to General Fell, a cold light of triumph in his eyes as he calmly brought the hammer down on the nation that had once been his Empire's most valued ally, and was still providing assistance in the civil war (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=590114) raging in the Empire.

"General, which is it? Are you lying when you claim the submarine was incommunicado? Or are you lying when you claim it sent for assistance legitimately, Sir? Are you lying, or are you lying? For you cannot be telling the truth."

After finishing, he scribbled a quick note and gave it to his aide, who discreetly palmed it. A sharp observer may have noticed the Imperial aide passing something to Hollander's aide a few moments later.

The note read: Must speak with you on matter of highest urgency. TK.

The Hegemon spoke, rubbing her eyes and sighing as she began. "I agree with the good Mr. Hollander. Perhaps it would be ebst if we held this conference at another time, and if in such a conference the Holdian government sent some actual diplomats, rather than the seemingly easily riled military officials who are here today."

(OOC: Sorry for the short reply, NC, a club I belong to is having its end of semester banquet tonight).

As General Thompson slipped a note into Hollander's left jacket pocket, he made sure not to acknowledge the action with so much as a glance. A few moments later, he had the opportunity to remove the small piece of paper, scan it briefly, then looked over to Representative Komnenos and nodded 'Yes,' after making eye contact to make sure the gesture could be as inconspicous as possible, yet still noticed by its intended recipient.

"I find an adjournment unnecessary -- the threat of war looms ever closer, and this must be decided here and now," Minister Kirsch commented. "Perhaps if we follow my earlier suggestion and move off of the past to what the purpose of this conference is?"

The Vice President of the Nation of Sutufinai coughed loudly. "Excuse me? Everyone." He elbowed his admiral would extracted something from his uniform. "I would like to step forward with something that may help everyone."

He stood up quietly and took what appeared to be an envelope from the Admiral. "The Nation of Sutufinai, in best interests of peace, would like to step forward and offer to every nation involved in this... A hope for peace."

He opened the rather large Manila folder and pulled out multiple smaller Envelopes, each one named, but with no "From" line. He quietly step one on the table in front of the Adenian leader, then another in front of the Parilisan leader. He then turned and set one down infront of the Nachmeran General and the Wolf Holders.

"Within that letter, is a Bank Note for Thirty Billion Silver Claws. That's eight ounces of Pure silver per Claw." He shook his head, "Wolf Hold has lost the amount of soldiers that is the same as the lost amount of civlians in Parilisa. Nachmere has lost more Military personnell than Parilisa lost in Civilians. In addition, The Wolf Hold and Nachmere have lost trillions of tons of military Equipment."

"I recently took out a loan from the Sutfen Military's budget. It's not like we spend any of the huge amount of money being flooded into the military's budget anyway. As most of you know, Sutufinai is still using stockpiled Ammunition and weapons from World War Two. When we bought the weapons all those years ago." He looked across the people here, "I did not put this forward earlier because I determined it would be the best for every nation to know how others feel about this. I felt it best for every nation to not sit in happy anonymity and to know just how every other nation reacts."

"Now that we are Ajourning, I would like to make one last shove towards peace by paying every wounded nation exactly 30 Billion Silver Claws. This of course is equal to a lot more Universal Standard Dollars. I wish for every nation here, to take this as reparations for losses and for every nation here to make a move towards peace... Instead of war."

In one fell swoop, it became apparent just -why- having Sutufinai as an ally was important. They were a third world country afraid to stand up on the world scale. But they'd been mining their silver mines for nearly one hundred years without actually using any of the silver. Sutufinai may be third world, but it was an appallingly -rich- third world country.

"Absolutely not sir. Not at any cost. The duty is not yours to pay for their grievances, and I will not accept this envelope. You have caused us no harm, and we have no ill feelings toward you. No, there are nations here who need to pay, yours is not one of them. Honourable gesture though it is, and respected greatly it is, too, but I cannot with good conscience accept this."

Lordens-Owenson pushed the envelope back across the table - he would not make an innocent nation pay for another's arrogance.

(OOC: WTF, Sutufinai? Seriously, WTF? I'm tempted to call godmodding.)

OOC: Godmodding?

Kirsch and Junker both fidgeted in their seats. "Please, sir, this is not necessary. The Adenians are correct -- you have not acted outside what can be considered proper by the rules of war. It is an honorable gesture, and one will will not soon forget, but we cannot accept it."

OOC: What did he actually do? I saw no godmod in that

OOC: How? Have you seen my nation's history? On top of that, I do not -buy- anything from outside my nation, except recently, Check out my History. Also check out the Economy thing for my nation. 120 Billion shouldn't be insane for my nation's economy for two years of Military spending. Considering my Nation's written history I have written myself... They'd have alot -more- money and silver stockpiled.

My nation has no oil as I have written, they used 1940s weapons, You can look ath te seas of Parilisa thread and SEE they use coal fired 1930s ships.

Don't call Godmodding when everything I have said and done is within the realm of realism for my faction.

OOC: I suppose you could argue that that would be a crippling amount of money lost, but I mean, it's his decision that he wants to lose it. Also, WH, respond :P

OOC: I used stockpiled money and Paid Wolf Hold, Adenia, Nachmere, and Parilisa 30 Billion dollars.

The Vice President shook his head, "I am an ally of Wolf Hold and Nachmere. My nation is an ally. As you have all seen, my nation is in no position to enter a war. But, we will enter a war if our allies are attacked or go to war. I am looking at the future, which if peace is no achieved... I fear that war will break out and my nation's people will be dragged into it. All nations here have nuclear weapons, all of them have made threats of staging Ballistic missile submarines off on nation's shores or another. All nations here know the range of Intercontinental Ballistic missiles. They tout their defenses. All these things which Sutufinai does not have. They state they could 'glass' one another, and most probably they could. Sutufinai is a small nation and it would not take much to 'glass' my nation."

The Vice President did not right away take the envelopes, leaving the offer open for a few seconds more...

OOC: Yeah, I know. I'm on your side here.

OOC: Besides, how can it be a crippling money loss when the money wasn't being used anyway? lol

The Vice President shook his head, "I am an ally of Wolf Hold and Nachmere. My nation is an ally. As you have all seen, my nation is in no position to enter a war. But, we will enter a war if our allies are attacked or go to war. I am looking at the future, which if peace is no achieved... I fear that war will break out and my nation's people will be dragged into it. All nations here have nuclear weapons, all of them have made threats of staging Ballistic missile submarines off on nation's shores or another. All nations here know the range of Intercontinental Ballistic missiles. They tout their defenses. All these things which Sutufinai does not have. They state they could 'glass' one another, and most probably they could. Sutufinai is a small nation and it would not take much to 'glass' my nation."

The Vice President did not right away take the envelopes, leaving the offer open for a few seconds more...

"Sir, it is a matter of principle. I will not take money that is not owed to me. You are an honourable example of everything your allies should be, but I will not take money from those who have no obligation to give me it."

(OOC: Whatever. But I look forward to the day someone actually attacks you. As to not having the money in circulation, that is a valid economic point. So - never mind.)

IC:

Teodoros Komnenos stood.

"Might I suggest that Sutufinai, in the light of their extremely generous actions and their lack of military capability, be declared off-limits in any conflicts that arise from this?"

"Would't it just be better to accept Sutufuni's gift and not have any conflicts? I mean, that is the point of this conference."

"It would actually be better to have the involved parties take responsibility for their actions and then not have any conflicts," Junker muttered dryly.

"Well, of course. But in light of both sides' hostility, I frankly don't see that happening."

Both Evans and Fell had quite clearly had enough of this bickering and squabbling. It was quite obvious to them that none of the ODECON member nations were prepared to listen to reason nor the facts. So they decided that the path of war that Decker had set them on probably would come to true with the whole of The Wolf Hold calling out for vengeance and these arrogant leaders of ODECON sitting up high and mighty on their thrones, believing that they were invincible on their thrones of ICBMs, tanks and there most prised possession liberty. The probably had forgotten the phrase 'The bigger they are, the harder they fall' and the story of 'David and Golaith' however whether these fables applied to the real world were yet to be seen. However they had to deal with the situation here and now, so to that effect General Fell stood up and addressed the room.

"It is clear that we will get no where, I request that we be shown to our cabin so we can discuss in private what we will report to the 1st Wolf's Marshall. I find it regrettable that we have not been able to reach a solution but not un-foreseen. So good day to you all"

The Commandant sighed. Well, at least it hasn't come to shooting, noting the dangerously frayed tempers from earlier on.

"Very well. This conference can be considered adjourned for now. The restaurant car is available, and you may return to your cabins or to the saloon and panorama cars at will, where there are compartments on hand to discuss whate'er you will. Messrs Evans and Fell, if you'd like to follow me."

Their cabin was in much the same style as the rest of the train, expensively done but not without taste. Were it that the Adenians could be bothered or that they felt the Wolf Holders caused enough concern they would have bugged the cabin, however, it was not felt that it would be diplomatically responsible, justifiable though it was.

Teodoros Komnenos watched them leave with a heavy feeling of foreboding. He didn't like the choices that lay before him right now, for he felt that soon the Empire would have to abandon one or another of their friends. Despite his personal dislike for the Wolf Hold's policies, he knew how much the Empress valued their friendship.

Blast it! Why can't people just get along, anyway?

Irasur Seawind, who had sat silently in the corner until now, perked up at the words 'adjourned' and 'saloon' (The latter being one of his favourites in the English language, for which Coscivian had not direct translation). He followed the other ODECON representatives out, hoping to find some refreshments to sustain him for the next session of the conference, and more importantly, to converse with his fellow dignitaries upon how to proceed.

The Hegemon stood up, sighing. "Well, that was certainly stressful. If someone would be so kind as to direct me to the restaurant car, I am quite hungry."

Keupir stood as well. "I think I'll join you, Ms. Hegemon. I'm famished."

"Of course, my good lady!"

Lordens-Owenson stood, proffering his arm to the Hegemon. "If you'd quite like to keep this infirm old man steady after such a long period seated..."

"As am I, Madam," added Seawind. He was confident that the Hegemon would have some good insight on how events were unfolding.

The Sutfen Vice President looked at the people at the table before shrugging. He quietly picked up the checks and opened them showing that the Bank notes werei ndeed within them before handing them all back to the Admiral who pulledo ut a small lighter and lit them on fire, dropping them on the table... They were out before they could actually pute nough smoke in the air to possibly set off the fire alarm or catch anything else on fire. But it was just the Sutfen sealing the coffin. For whom the coffin was for was yet to be seen. The Vice President shook his head to the group of ODECON representatives.

"Let it be known, from this step onward... That any action that is taken, is not the fault of my people... The Wolf Hold's people... Or of Nachmere. Whomever started the accident at the coast of Parilisa. I could have stopped The Holders and Nachmere had you agreed. But because of your pitiful -honor- and pride... Any Civilians or Military personnel on either side that dies, May it all be on Your hands."

The Vice President shook his head quietly, his furred cheeks stained with tears... They were small and they were barely noticable. But He knew, no matter what... It would not be the great super nations that were to be destroyed or most affected.

He sighed lightly and stepped out, whispering to his entourage one soft statement; "No matter how this goes, no quote seems to fit this more than; When the rich wage war, it's the poor that die. I fear, Hammer... That we are but beggars in a world of Dragons sitting upon hoards."

"Of course, my good lady!"

Lordens-Owenson stood, proffering his arm to the Hegemon. "If you'd quite like to keep this infirm old man steady after such a long period seated..."

"It would be my pleasure, Mr. Owenson." Mary said, smiling as she took the offered arm. "Lead the way."

Keupir turned to Seawind, nodding slightly and smiling. He then turned, following the Hegemon and Mr. Owenson into the restaurant car, his mouth already salivating at the thought of Adenian cooking.

The Adenian delegate turned, his elbow dropping. Coldly, all hint or facade of warmth gone, he replied quite slowly to the Sutfen.

"I suggest you find your cabin, gentlemen, before you accuse my nation again of such atrocities without proof. Greater men than you have fallen for less."

Stiffening his back, he walked through the vestibule unaided, through the saloon car. Ordering another "damned stiff whisky", he continued through to the restaurant car to await his ODECON counterparts.

The staff at the Foreign Authority had drawn straws to see who would attend what they regarded as the cushiest assignment of the year. Martin Blanc, the lucky junior diplomat who had picked the short straw, had really taken this designation to heart. In fact, the fellow hadn't even said "hello" to his fellow ODECON types. Martin slipped onto the train unnoticed and had been lying low in the saloon car ever since, tipping the bartender heavily (from government coffers) to keep the rum flowing. However, even a Zinairian can't subsist on sugar cane alone, so he decided that maybe it would be best to head over to the restaurant car briefly to grab a bite.

Seawind in turn gave a respectful nod and a smile to Keupir, who had had not yet spoken to in person but hear very much about. He then followed suit and headed to the restaurant car.

Alessandra had been approaching the group when she heard the Adenian say ... what he did. She laughed somewhat to cover it and continued to the Sutfen, offering her hand in greeting. "Pleasure to meet you, gentlemen. Would you care to accompany me to the saloon car?"

She would likely write up a reprimanding email to Owenson later, though she fully expected for it to be ignored or replied to with classic Adenian grouchiness.

OOC: She can now be considered to be in the saloon, since a lot of time has passed since this was said. Sut, if you see this and joined her, do so as though they've been in the saloon car for a bit. If your guys rejected the invitation, just skip posting it.

As Fell and Evans entered their cabin that the Commandant had shown them, Fell finally relaxed and placed his black trench coat on a nearby chair. Evans still stood their gazing into space, Fell sympathised he knew what Evans had been through and what this conference had probably put him through emotionally. He walked behind Evans and slid off the great coat from the Marshalls shoulders, Evans wasn't as young as he used to be. He may of only been 34, the youngest of the four marshals he had been through as much as Cain but that was expected of him as he was Cain's right hand man. Evans merely nodded and just looked over at Fell nodding towards Fells greatcoat. Understanding the meaning Fell walked over and reached inside one of the inner pockets, a pocket with a slightly large lump present. Out of the pocket he pulled a MP7 PDW which he checked was loaded and then placed on the desk in front of Evans.

"I know about you and Decker....just know that the rest of us need you and that you will be of no use to us dead. So please only use that If they kick the door down. I'm going for a walk......please don't do anything rash"

Fell snapped a smart salute and turned for the door, before he left he reached underneath his smart black combat jacket that had replaced his trench coat, he felt the cold metal of his pistol. Not that he had any intention to use it, it was merely a precaution incase the ODECON members decided a quick assassination was better then a war. Resolving himself he opened the door and looked about for the saloon car, he quite fancied a drink, closing the door behind him he set of for the saloon car.

Mary joined Owenson at a large table in the restaurant car, and waited for the others to arrive.

Owenson's shaking hands had begun to relax now his fingers wrapped around a whiskey. His age was getting to him, this fast-lane of careers left few men behind.

"I must apologise my lady, that was most unprofessional of me. I have little temper for such accusations as that at this time. You'll note the skirt steak is particularly good if this is the chef that normally serves. I think it'll do us some good, will it not?"

Seawind seated himself at the same table, extended his hand to Basset and greeted both leaders. "Sèra Basset, Sèr Owenson. An honour to meet both of you!"

A few steps behind the Hegemon and Owenson, Keupir entered the restaurant car. Licking his lips, he caught a waiter as he walked by

"Swordfish, if you please," Keupir ordered. "Rare. And a glass of Merlot. Saint-Estèphe, if you have it. Not too young, mind."

He could be a bit brusque when he was hungry, and now was no exception. Turning, he continued on toward the table, where Owenson and the Hegemon sat. Keupir seated himself a few places away from the pair, checking his watch and settling in to the comfortable seat.

Martin swaggered into the restaurant car, still clutching his glass of rum. He scanned the table and saw a woman he would recognize anywhere surrounded by a gaggle of other diplomats. He shined the Zinairian flag pin on his lapel and approached the table.

"Hello you all," Martin slurred, "Martin Blanc of Zinaire. Ish a pleashure to meet you all."

"Of course sir. Right away." The waiter scurried off, his monocle nearly falling out as he took the order to the chef. A young waitress returned, politely curtseying before requesting orders. Lordens-Owenson invited the Hegemon to order first.

"After you, my lady." Noticing the Zinairian stumbling up toward the table, he couldn't help but break into a grin. "Blanc, you damned fool, you've been hiding in the saloon! You dog, you!"

"Skirt steak, medium-rare." Mary said to the waiter. "And a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon."

She regarded the Zinarian for a moemnt with an amused grin. "Likewise, Mr. Blanc."

"Pleashe mishus Hegemon, call me Martin." He slid into a seat at the table and knocked back the rest of his rum. "How'sh thish work? We jusht order whatever?"

General Novacek stood as the delegates left. He quickly sent a note off to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as well as the Office of the President before shutting down his secure netbook and handing it to his aide to return to his cabin. He straightened his uniform before heading off to the cabin area. Instead of going to his own cabin he walked to the cabin of the Wold Holdian delegates. He wanted to speak with them privately and convey a message from the Oseaton President.

"We do indeed, Blanc. Just pull over one of these monocled fellows, and place your order. Might I suggest the swordfish? I certainly would hope to not be the only one with monomethylmercury poisoning on this trip." Keupir said, jokingly.

Martin spotted a waiter a couple tables away and pointed directly at him and began snapping his fingers. "You shir! I am ready to plashe an order!"

"Of course my lady. An excellent choice, the Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent companion to the steak."

Lordens-Owenson was most amused.

"Absolutely. Very little we don't have aboard this vehicle of ours, Blanc - by all means. Another tot of rum for this gentleman, my dear, and I shall take the popeseye cut, saignant."

Martin spotted a waiter a couple tables away and pointed directly at him and began snapping his fingers. "You shir! I am ready to plashe an order!"

The waiter was shocked at the rather rude addressal, but ran with it.

"Yes, sir? What can we get for you today?"

Martin pulled a hundred numer note from his billfold and slipped it into the waiter's pocket. "My good man, fetch me a grilled mahi-mahi shteak with mango shalsha. And you buy yourshelf shomthing nice. Compliments of the Zinairian government."

Wolf's General Fell spoted General Novacek approaching down the hall way making a bee line for their cabin. Going for the intercept he adjusted the four stars on his lapel, the golden wolf heads at the centre of the four stars. Striding over to General Novacek he called out "Over here General"

Martin pulled a hundred numer note from his billfold and slipped it into the waiter's pocket. "My good man, fetch me a grilled mahi-mahi shteak with mango shalsha. And you buy yourshelf shomthing nice. Compliments of the Zinairian government."

The waiter's eyes lit up.

"Of course sir! Right away! My thanks to the Zinairian Administration."

He bowed, almost running to the kitchen.

Tork was disappointed with the talks. He never felt at ease with diplomats, and he thought the mix of Wolf Hold Marshalls with diplomats was like fire and high explosives. He went to his cabin. He opened his luggage which has a very hefty combination lock on it. The luggage had his passport, some money, some files he needed to read, a spare uniform, and a M.A.C .45 Longslide (http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/4131/mkivom9.png) in a holster. He didn’t wear it before. But the Wolf Holdians were making things quite tense. He didn’t know them well but they seemed angry enough to start randomly shooting at the ODECON members. Hell, not randomly. They would do it with extreme precision. Either way he had no intention of being gunned down by the Commandants security. He never met a train commander that acted like a General, and he hoped this would be a first and last. Either way he unbuckled his belt, put the holster on it, and buckled it. He then checked the gun, loaded a magazine and looked down at it. Yes, it was very obvious, and it was a firearm. But it was a very esthetic piece of killing technology, and he WAS a General. He was pretty sure the hosts will let it slide…

He left his cabin and looked for the Wolf Holdians.

"General Fell, sir." Novacek said as he saluted crisply. "I wanted to convey General Hamilton's deepest condolences for the losses you suffered at the hands of the ODECON forces as well as my own condolences. The unprovoked attack on your sailors is an affront to all peace loving nations. President Hamilton also wanted me to convey Oseaton support for your nation in any events that may transpire from this. While we are currently engaged in a separate conflict, we will commit all we can support you."

"I also would like to compliment you on how you handled the insults hurled at you during this 'peace' conference. Any lesser man, such as myself, would have lost control long before."

With the meeting adjourned for the time being, Deputy Minister Hollander and Colonel Higgins departed for the Salzland cabin, so that they could file an opening report with the Foreign Relations and Defense Ministries, respectively. Especially considering the last cryptic statements from the Sutufinai Vice-President, both men believed it vital to update the government in Rostgard as to the unfolding situation.

With diplomatic progress at a relative standstill, and an escalation all but inevitable given the actions of the first hours of this "peace" conference, Minister Hollander and Colonel Higgins both reported to their respective superiors that they believed, barring an unforseen development, that hostilities would errupt. Not news that the President and Cabinet wished to hear, but it was expected nonetheless.

While they filed their reports, General Thompson sought out the Parilisan President, hoping to find him in the dining car and speak to him in private. While both Minister Hollander and Colonel Higgins had obvious reasons for being present at this conference, it was time for Thompson to make the reasoning behind his presence known. At least to the Parilisans, at any rate. While not intending to slight its allies in ODECON, the Armed Republic wanted to speak with its allies in Parilisa before involving the remainder of the alliance. Thompson was also under strict orders to brief the representatives in person, if and only if the Parilisans approved of what he was authorized to propose.

In the mean time, General Thompson settled into the dining car, waiting either for a waiter or the Parilisan President to arrive, so that they could speak.

Now seeing Novacek and Fell, Tork walked towards them.
"Well, this is some peace confrence" he said, reaching his hand out towards Novacek.

General Thompson was soon noted by a waitress, who wasted no time.

"Sir? Are you ready to order?"

---

"Sir, I must indeed question why you felt the need to bring a weapon like that aboard my vehicle."

The Commandant was cold, authoritative, an authority unto himself. This was his vehicle, the safety of it's occupants his responsibility. People bringing unauthorised weaponry on board was most unusual, especially to a peace conference of all things. He had spied the rather impressive handgun on General Tork's person as he approached from down the corridor, and be damned if he would carry it any further.

Returning the salute General Fell smiled as he listened to General Novacek offer of help from there nation and president. He knew that the Wolf Hold could use as many allies as possible if they were to face a conflict with one of the largest alliances in the world today.

"Tell your president that we are eternally grateful for his pledge of support and that we offer any support we can give in regards to this other conflict. Oh I am very good at keeping my temper as when I lose it people tend to end up with holes in their heads" With a slight chuckle he looked around and saw General Tork approaching, "Now General Novacek let me introduce you to one of The Wolf Holds closest allies, General Tork from Nachmere. They were there when we need them the most oh and General Tork depends on your definition of peace"

"General Tork, nice to meet you, sir." Novacek said as he greeted the delegate from Nachmere. "I have to say, I doubt whether peace would have ever come to this planet if all peace conferences were conducted in this manner. While the setting is luxurious, the hospitality is certainly lacking. Back in the Federation, treating one's guests in such a manner is cause for public humiliation and scorn."

"Sir, I must indeed question why you felt the need to bring a weapon like that aboard my vehicle."

Tork was a little surprised at the commandant’s approach. He was already engaged in conversation with his allies. But, he was a guest here, and he decided to be as calm as he has been all day.

“Mr. Commandant, No one has informed me at any point I was not allowed to carry a weapon on board your wonderful train. If I was aware of that, I would have made sure to make other arrangements for my security. It is usual for delegates to have security men in such conferences, but I chose to only carry my own weapon, rather than have two goons follow me around. I assure you I mean no harm to anyone that does not wish it to me. As for the size of the gun, I mostly do sport shooting with it, hence the length of the barrel. I assure you its otherwise quite standard and meant only for self defense.”

General Thompson noticed the Adenian waitress as she walked up to him, and asked him for his order. He smiled, pleasantly surprised at the speedy service, which certainly reflected well upon their hosts. As he decided what to order, he noted that the other representatives in the dining car appeared ready to accompany their meals with large quantities of alcohol, which could potentially make the following sessions... interesting. He made a mental note to speak with the ODECON representatives before they became too intoxicated.

"Yes, thank you," Thompson said to the waitress. "If it's not too much hassle, a glass of lemonade and a roast beef sandwich would be wonderful. I would indulge," he added, gesturing toward the clearly intoxicated Zinairan, "But I'm in uniform. And there's no rush, Miss, I'm waiting to speak with someone. Thank you."

Seawind motioned to a waiter, "Sir, I would like a New York strip steak and whatever claret you think is best." Seawind was not accustomed to drinking wine. A member of the Saskev ethnic group, his people were primarily beer-drinking. Besides, most middle- and lower-class Kiravians didn't drink much wine anyway (Grapes don't do well in Kirav's climate). Navigating the French and Italian of a wine menu was not worth the hassle, as Coscivians tended to think of their own names for the wines that they did drink.

"Madam Basset," he began, "I believe that you met my temporary replacement, Lord Blackfield, at the funeral of Lord Sumguy, with whom I had only passing...," he then remembred English expressions for mortality, "...minimal contact. I would say that the coöperation between our nations is incongruous to the amount of direct contact that our leaders have had."

"Son-of-a-bitch," the Commandant muttered inaudibly. "General Novacek, if you have a problem with my hospitality, excluding the fact that you are travelling aboard the world's most exclusive train, I suggest you address those concerns to me in person. Now General Tork, you have a weapon in your possession that you will relieve yourself of. I honestly can't believe I have to treat you all like children. The security aboard this vehicle is more than adequate - this is a peace conference for heaven's sake, diplomatic protocol would presumably dictate that bringing weapons aboard here is tantamount to walking into an embassy swinging a gun?"

General Thompson noticed the Adenian waitress as she walked up to him, and asked him for his order. He smiled, pleasantly surprised at the speedy service, which certainly reflected well upon their hosts. As he decided what to order, he noted that the other representatives in the dining car appeared ready to accompany their meals with large quantities of alcohol, which could potentially make the following sessions... interesting. He made a mental note to speak with the ODECON representatives before they became too intoxicated.

"Yes, thank you," Thompson said to the waitress. "If it's not too much hassle, a glass of lemonade and a roast beef sandwich would be wonderful. I would indulge," he added, gesturing toward the clearly intoxicated Zinairan, "But I'm in uniform. And there's no rush, Miss, I'm waiting to speak with someone. Thank you."

"Of course sir." She curtseyed, before turning sharply round and heading toward the kitchen.

Seawind motioned to a waiter, "Sir, I would like a New York strip steak and whatever claret you think is best." Seawind was not accustomed to drinking wine. A member of the Saskev ethnic group, his people were primarily beer-drinking. Besides, most middle- and lower-class Kiravians didn't drink much wine anyway (Grapes don't do well in Kirav's climate). Navigating the French and Italian of a wine menu was not worth the hassle, as Coscivians tended to think of their own names for the wines that they did drink.

"Madam Basset," he began, "I believe that you met my temporary replacement, Lord Blackfield, at the funeral of Lord Sumguy, with whom I had only passing...," he then remembred English expressions for mortality, "...minimal contact. I would say that the coöperation between our nations is incongruous to the amount of direct contact that our leaders have had."

"Excellent, sir. I shall see what we have on board." Adjusting the monocle of his ODENOM uniform, he made his way back to the chef, soon returning with a 1914 Bordeaux.

Following him were a small convoy of waiters, carrying the dishes. With excellent portion sizes, more than the average man could eat, it would suit even the ravenous Zinairian, though they were unsure whether he would soon keel over anyway.

"Sirs, Madames, your meals!" Wines were quietly and efficiently decanted, initial glasses poured. A waiter stood on hand, towel over arm, as the delegates began to tuck in. Lordens-Owenson sank back in his chair as the steak touched his tongue.

"Egad, this is almost certainly one of Owens. My compliments to him once again, the man is an artist for the palette!"

Toward the other side, the Salzlander was receiving his more humble meal - a rather oversized sandwich, the waitress standing by in case of a further request.

"Excellent, sir. I shall see what we have on board." Adjusting the monocle of his ODENOM uniform, he made his way back to the chef, soon returning with a 1914 Bordeaux.

Seawind thanked the waiter warmly. As his wine was poured, the Emperor turned his attention to the verbal bout between his Adenian host and the Nachmeren officer. He could not help but agree that the General had committed an act of great disrespect. In the Empire, such an act would be seen as a grave insult. Still, he remained a silent observer, just as he had been for the first half of the negotiations.

When his steak arrived, Seawind's instinct drew his attention back towards the table. The Kiravian attitude towards meat was much warmer than to wine. It was eaten across all provinces, all classes, and all ethnic groups. One would be hard pressed to find a vegetarian dish in Kiravian cuisine, and that was just the way they liked it.

"Madam Basset," he began, "I believe that you met my temporary replacement, Lord Blackfield, at the funeral of Lord Sumguy, with whom I had only passing...," he then remembred English expressions for mortality, "...minimal contact. I would say that the coöperation between our nations is incongruous to the amount of direct contact that our leaders have had."

"I did, Sèr Emperor*." Mary said, smirking as her food was placed before her. "And it has indeed been so thus far, regrettably. May today mark the end of a period in which such was the case."

*OOC: please inform me if this is not the correct term

"I wasn't aware I was in a position to be overheard, but in any event I have no quarrel with your accommodations, merely with the way the host delegates have behaved at this 'peace' conference. Your train is most luxurious. However, since you have a problem with weapons," Novacek said as he unbuttoned his uniform's jacket and removed a M9 Beretta from his shoulder holster, pulling the clip from pistol before handing it to the Commandant. "One can never be too careful, Commandant, that's something I learned in my time of military service."

Well, this was lovely. Tork was now getting extremely upset. He wasnet a very excitable person, but he didn’t like this little tyrant. But, this was a diplomatic event…
“Commandant, if you believe that me carrying a gun is against protocol, please do show me this said protocol. If you insist on disarming me, I suggest you stop the train; I will happily walk over to the nearby town and take a taxi to the airport. Diplomats are, as I have mentioned, usually protected by security from THEIR OWN country. While we are at a peace conference, let me remind you that only a short while ago our countrymen were shooting at each other, and I can hardly say I trust your security to protect their enemy. On the subject of your hospitality, I believe that the fact that a men in charge of a train, be it the world’s greatest train, speaking down to his guests is bad hospitality. I also think that a man who commands a train speaking down at a man who commands 250,000 men armed with some of the world’s most advanced weapons and also a few trains, is plain idiocy and megalomania. Very well, if you wish me to disarm, break the law of diplomatic immunity and disarm me, or stop the train and let me leave. Would be a shame considering I am one of the only people here who did not raise their voice or act like an idiot the entire day, but this is your train…”

"Excellent!" Keupir exclaimed as his swordfish arrived. He leaned back, allowing the waiter space to set down the plate. His monocle gleaming in the light, the waiter poured wine into the glass, just a mouthful, enough to taste. Keupir brought the glass to his lips, letting the excellent Merlot swirl over his tongue.

"Wonderful. Absolutely wonderful." Keupir replied. The waiter poured the rest of the glass, only filling up about one third of the space in the large container, and set the bottle down.

"Here, you're a fine waiter." Keupir said, tucking a few hundred ₭ into his breast pocket. As the man turned away, tucking into his meal.

Martin pulled another fifty numers from his pocket and gave it to the waiter. "Thank you my good man!" He then dug into his fish with an uncommon amount of enthusiasm, stopping only to bellow, "Shomeone get me more rum! I'm parched!"

"I did, your highness*." Mary said, smirking as her food was placed before her. "And it has indeed been so thus far, regrettably. May today mark the end of a period in which such was the case."

*OOC: please inform me if this is not the correct term

"May it do so, indeed," Seawind replied, lifting his glass, "To that!"

Well, this was lovely. Tork was now getting extremely upset. He wasnet a very excitable person, but he didn’t like this little tyrant. But, this was a diplomatic event…
“Commandant, if you believe that me carrying a gun is against protocol, please do show me this said protocol. If you insist on disarming me, I suggest you stop the train; I will happily walk over to the nearby town and take a taxi to the airport. Diplomats are, as I have mentioned, usually protected by security from THEIR OWN country. While we are at a peace conference, let me remind you that only a short while ago our countrymen were shooting at each other, and I can hardly say I trust your security to protect their enemy. On the subject of your hospitality, I believe that the fact that a men in charge of a train, be it the world’s greatest train, speaking down to his guests is bad hospitality. I also think that a man who commands a train speaking down at a man who commands 250,000 men armed with some of the world’s most advanced weapons and also a few trains, is plain idiocy and megalomania. Very well, if you wish me to disarm, break the law of diplomatic immunity and disarm me, or stop the train and let me leave. Would be a shame considering I am one of the only people here who did not raise their voice or act like an idiot the entire day, but this is your train…”

"Diplomatic Immunity only gets you so far General." He pulled a small radio from his pocket, speaking rapidly into it. A small jolt was felt. "Well, General, now's your chance. That was the brakes applying." The insolence of this upstart General had pushed him more than far enough.

"I believe it is bad guest etiquette to insult your host's honour and to bring weapons to a diplomatic event, yet here we are. You are aboard my train, General, and believe me, that means we play my way. Now you have three options. Either relieve yourself of the weapon, and you may continue your conversation and no more will be said. You may also choose to remain with the weapon, in which case you will be marched to your cabin as I believe you to be a threat to my passengers and crew. Your other option, of course, is to go traipsing through Parilisa wearing a military uniform and wielding a gun. I'll be honest - I'm not particularly picky at this point in time.

"Diplomatic Immunity does not stretch to diplomats carrying a weapon - either you are a diplomat or you are a soldier. Now is the time to pick which."

"Excellent!" Keupir exclaimed as his swordfish arrived. He leaned back, allowing the waiter space to set down the plate. His monocle gleaming in the light, the waiter poured wine into the glass, just a mouthful, enough to taste. Keupir brought the glass to his lips, letting the excellent Merlot swirl over his tongue.

"Wonderful. Absolutely wonderful." Keupir replied. The waiter poured the rest of the glass, only filling up about one third of the space in the large container, and set the bottle down.

"Here, you're a fine waiter." Keupir said, tucking a few hundred ₭ into his breast pocket. As the man turned away, tucking into his meal.

"Thankyou, sir! I'm most obliged." The waiter moved to turn away, when the Zinairian yelled. Considering that the day was a profitable one thusfar, he saw no reason to ignore the man - his tips were more than adequate.

"Right away sir!" As if by magic, a bottle shortly appeared, a slightly red-cheeked waiter holding it.

Martin clutched the bottle and poured himself and anyone else who had an open container within reach a tall glass of rum. He opened up his billfold to find himself out of cash, so he pulled off his designer watch and handed it to the waiter. "Don't shpend it all in once place now!"

As the waiter walked by yet again, Keupir pulled him over.

"Here, my good man. He's drunk, obviously. Have something a little more liquid" he said, handing the man another fat wad of bills, gently prising the watch from his hands as he did so.

"Here, Blanc." Keuir said, snapping the band back onto the Zinarian's wrist.

"I 'preciate it, good shir, but I can't be taking charity. If you'll excuse me for jusht a moment and if shomeone would be sho kind ash to direct me to the on-board bank..." Martin said.

General Tork raised his hand forward, lke a kid pretending to be a cowboy. He “cocked” his thumb and “shot” the Commandant, muttering “Bang”.
“You know, you would make a very good drill sergeant, but you make for one shitty transport provider. Fine, these talks are more important than this small issue. You can have my gun, on condition that it is locked safely and returned to me without a scratch when this ride is done with. And don’t let any of your security play with it; this one is not for girls. Now, I’m reaching for my pistol, don’t go crazy on me and think I’m drawing to shoot.”

Tork reached to his gun, took the magazine out while it was holstered, and gave the magazine to the Commandant. He then pulled the gun out, turned facing the outside of the train, cocked and checks the gun, and gave it to the commandant as well.

“And if you really like it, I’ll have one made in pink just for you, you nonsense. 35 years of carrying a gun without one single accident, and I am a threat to safety…Makes you wonder about all the kids you have -guarding- us”

"Pathetic. Gracious in defeat, I believe the saying goes. Still, I'm glad you saw sense. I make no guarantees for the safety of your gun, but I'll do my best."

Taking the gun, he continued his walk, leaving the Nachmerian to stew. The Nachmerian would, if he was careful and sharp-eyed, observe the gun pass quickly by the window they were stood next to - on the outside of the train. With another jolt, coal-stoking began, and speed began to pick up once more.

"Ruddy upstarts, not half a clue on how to run a nation. 35 years of service for some young turk to tell me I'm no good. Robinson, Lewis, with me. I get the feeling our guests may yet be upset about the fate of that rather expensive-looking peashooter..."

At this point, the Sutfen group had politely refused to join the group. General Hammer had briefly stayed behind while the Admiral and Vice President had moved to their cabin. At this point, The General was heading back towards the Sutfen cabin at a leiusurely pace... He took up damn near the entire hallway as he walked, but it was lieusurely pace. When he approached the group in the narrow hallway outside the Wolf Hold cabin, he'd heard the whole conversation. A plus to having an excellently quiet train meant that the acute canine hearing was not obstructed.

The General stepped up behind the Adenian commander and lightly set his massive hand on the commander's shoulder. The massive canid's fingers would reach all the way to the Commander's breast pocket and were tipped with two to three inch claws. Each claw was obviously filed to razor sharpness. The claws themselves were an obviously lethal weapon, like he had 10 small daggers. Another note... The General was incapable of wearing shoes and his sharpened foot claws were lightly scratching the brilliant floor. He smiled softly, showing off his three inch long canines and sharp predator teeth in a Challenge grin... His hackles were raised and his ears were back...

And in the friendliest and nicest voice that can be issued from such a beast.... He asked in a rumbling baritone, "Please, do excuse me Commander. I must talk with the Vice President."

Sutfen Cabin

The vice president sighed as he took off the silly shirt and suit jacket, revealing grey bandages that covered his upper arms and chest which were obviously stained with blood. He looked up and raised a brow to the Admiral's own wounds and snickered before shaking his head, "I say, when we practiced yesterday... Couldn't we have used claw-caps so we didn't get scritch scratched? Can you imagine what people would say if they saw these wounds? They'd call us Barbarians!"

The Admiral chortled lightly as he checked his own bandages, taking off a number of them as he began rebandaging the wounds. "No, atleast you didn't practice with Hammer. I pity the three Gunnery Sergeants he wrestled with. But, you know full well openly walking about with a Webley revolver would do not good. They don't even have safeties! Just put some new Bandaging on, also remember to take the file to your claws. Keep 'em sharp."

The Vice President nodded softly, while he hadn't been in a brawl for two years, back during his days as an engineer... He and the rest of the locomotive and train crew used to purposefully get into all out brawls with track gangs. But now, he just sat down and took out a number of rather industrial looking files. With those files he went after his claws to make sure they were razor sharp, while it was normal practice in Sutfen to shave your claws short... Many Militiamen, Industrial workers, brawlers, and members of the Military kept one inch long claws (As was 'normal' military procedure back home, no longer than 1 inch. However, of course for this they'd been preparing for weeks to grow their claws.). The Admiral and Vice President both sported carefully maintained one inch long claws, both had had claws beforehand and knew how to easily write and live with claws 'getting in the way'. Though, both of them mused at how the General had bent "procedure" to grow three inch long steak knives.

However, despite this... none of the nations here had ever been to the Isolationalist nation of Sutufinai's shores... Much less had major dealings with the military. So, the length of the Canids' claws wouldn't be able to be called as 'inappropriate' or not.

OOC: I think I spend too much time on my posts, I start my post and then I post it and five more posts have been posted...

OOC: I think I spend too much time on my posts, I start my post and then I post it and five more posts have been posted...

Happens to me all the time. Don't sweat it. Everyone understands the inherent inperfections of posting on a forum. It's far more important to continue producing your well-written posts.

At seeing his gun thrown out the window Tork was seriously entertained. That idiot of a train commander actually though it is about the gun itself…Must have been the “conditions” he set. The gun wasn’t his, it was military issue. And while it was indeed a bit costly, Nachmere would survive…
He did have to wonder what kind of an idiot throws two perfectly good handguns out of the window.

He now said a sentence very loudly, to make sure if the commandant doesn’t hear it, someone in his staff will.
“You know my friends,” He said to his Wolf Holdian and Oseaton colleagues “They say hatred and fear of firearms usually grows from a severe insecurity regarding the size of your genitals. They say the same about people with overt control issues. I think our friend the Commandant is probably a classic case”

At hearing the Nachtmeren general's remarks, Seawind shed his observer status.

"Sir, control yourself! This is a diplomatic negotiation! We are trying to prevent war, death, and destruction! What, sir, what do you acheive by making such idiotic and vulgar comments to your host? Let me say this sir, it does not compliment your refinement nor intelligence. Please, can we all just sit down and behave like grown men instead of immature children on a playground? You are a military officer, General. A soldier. Surely you are above such utter stupidity."

Komnenos finished his meal efficiently. Being the representative from one of three factions of a nation in a civil war certainly did nothing for his social calendar, he supposed. However, he had a duty to do, and spotted Hollander.

He got up from the table, and started to move toward Hollander's.

OOC: Erm Kirav....we were in a corridor outside the Wolf Hold cabins, unless you are in the hallway you wouldn't know about this

Novacek chuckled at the comment made by his Nachmeren colleague. "And I was growing quite fond of my standard issue pistol, such a pity." he said dryly. There really was no reason for doing such a thing, but apparently reason didn't seem to matter much to ODECON members. "You know, I think they would find us much more civil if they treated us with just an ounce of respect. Instead they treat us as mere children. Did you notice the Hegemon delegation was accompanied by bodyguards?"

Komnenos finished his meal efficiently. Being the representative from one of three factions of a nation in a civil war certainly did nothing for his social calendar, he supposed. However, he had a duty to do, and spotted Hollander.

He got up from the table, and started to move toward Hollander's.

Deputy Minister Hollander, once he finished submitting his report to the Foreign Relations Minister back in Rostgard, left Colonel Higgins in the cabin in order to join General Thompson in the dining car. Hollander had just received a copy of Thompson's orders for this conference, and could not say that he was surprised by what he read. Now that he was fully aware of the situation, he would be able to aid Thompson while they spoke with the Parilisan President.

After sitting down, Hollander waived off a nearby Adenian waitress, indicating that he was uninterested in food or drink at the moment. He watched as Thompson took a bite from his sandwich, chewed thoughtfully, and smiled. Clearly, he was satisfied with the quality of food provided by the Adenians.

"Well, Minister, what do you think so far?" the General asked. "Quite a room full of characters back there."

"It takes all types, General. It takes all types," Hollander replied. As the official representative of the Armed Republic of Salzland, Hollander felt it his duty to remain non-commital, especially as it would be relatively easy for a member of the Wolf Hold delegation, or one of their allies, to walk in and hear any confidential information passed in their discussion.

"That it does, Minister," Thompson replied, nodding. "There's no way this is going to end well," he continued, "Which bothers me. The Wolf Hold, and its allies are pushing too hard. Something's up, and I do not like it."

"All we can do is hope that they tip their hand," Hollander replied, before leaning in close enough to whisper. The only way he would be heard was if someone were within two feet of their table. "When you meet with the Parilisan delegation, I would like to join you. I received a copy of your orders from Rostgard."

"Of course, Minister. I would have told you myself, except I didn't receive them until we were already on the train. By that point, there wasn't time to brief you," Thompson answered. "It appears we're about to have company," he added, looking over Minister Hollander's shoulder at the approaching Representative Komnenos, from New Chalcedon.

"Would you care to join us?" asked Hollander, turning to address the new arrival. "I believe that we have several issues of importance to discuss. Please allow me to introduce General Thompson, commander of our Marines' 5th Airborne Division. If it is acceptable, I wish for him to join our conversation."

(OOC: Sorry if I messed up Komnenos' title, it's 2:30 in the morning and I was too lazy to look. I'll be happy to edit in the correct title)

Klein was incredibly flustered after the heated debates, so he retired ot his cabin for a moment to change his shirt and tie. Satisfied that he was completely prepared to enter the den of wolves again, he strolled down to where the other members of ODECON were gathered.

“I am terribly sorry to join you late, my friends; I had some business to attend to. May I have a drink?”

He was never keen to change an unrelated conversation to the topic of politics, but it seemed important that he bring the subject up while he was alone with allies.

“This is getting nowhere. The Holdians have expressed in no uncertain terms that they have no desire for war. The Oseatons simply do not understand the concept of a weapon of mass destruction and the implications of its arrival. In addition to this several important questions remain unanswered, the Holdians having simply ignored them, and the meeting is nothing more than a brawl. I want to know from the wolves why they have an interest in protecting Parilisa from piracy and why they aimed for a civilian target in Exengrad. So far these points have not been answered, because what the Hold has told us so far is nothing more than a lie.”

“We need a change of strategy. Forcing Oseato to accept the danger of nuclear weaponry will get us nowhere. We must point out to all that the Hold’s story is flawed and that he is in the wrong, but we must not let it descend into argument. The main priority is not to get the wolves to accept the guilt, though an apology would be nice, and nor is it to squeeze reparations from them. The point is to keep peace, and I believe that we can do this if we can persuade the CIS not to support the Hold.”

“By persuading them to sign a non-aggression pact with ODECON we will have cut the wolves teeth out and leave them without their necessary weapon. They are only acting with such confidence because they have persuaded themselves that the CIS will cover their arses. If the CIS decided to remain neutral the Hold could not go to war. Our main target now should not be the belligerent, but the belligerent’s allies.”

Tork looked at Novacek and smiled. So far he was not sure if this man and his country will support the Wolf Holdians against ODECON. Now he was far more convinced. But he wanted to make sure.
“We are talking about people who let railway officials do their diplomacy for them, and that consider a foreign General armed with a pistol a dire threat. We are seriously across the porthole to another dimension. I hope Oseato will stand by us here, because there is no reasoning with a nation that allows such treatment of its guests. Now, Generals, shall we sit down to eat? We might as well get a meal out of this whole affair?”

"Of course, Minister. I would have told you myself, except I didn't receive them until we were already on the train. By that point, there wasn't time to brief you," Thompson answered. "It appears we're about to have company," he added, looking over Minister Hollander's shoulder at the approaching Representative Komnenos, from New Chalcedon.

"Would you care to join us?" asked Hollander, turning to address the new arrival. "I believe that we have several issues of importance to discuss. Please allow me to introduce General Thompson, commander of our Marines' 5th Airborne Division. If it is acceptable, I wish for him to join our conversation."

(OOC: Sorry if I messed up Komnenos' title, it's 2:30 in the morning and I was too lazy to look. I'll be happy to edit in the correct title)

Komnenos approached the table with the look of a man heading to his own execution, and sat down. When he had done so, he wasted no time in coming to the point, speaking in a low voice.

"I have full authority to negotiate from Her Highness on any salient points required, so I'll get to the point. It is my judgement that the Wolf Hold makes a poor ally for the Empire. Unfortunately, they're a part of the CIN - the only alliance that the Empire is a member of."

"I am certain that if I returned to Her Majesty with an invitation to ODECON membership and a promise of ODECON assistance in our civil conflict, she would be quite happy for the Empire to take ODECON's side in any conflict that arises out of this conference."

(OOC: Yeah, I know - the [in]famous Byzantine intrigue rears its ugly head again. To those who are interested, I'll explain what's what later. Yes, I do have my NPCs straight and know what motivates each of them.)

The Commandant smiled as the comment reached his ears. He'd suffered worse jibes at his expense, and really, when the ODECON delegates heard about it, it would be worth the laugh.

He entered the restaurant carriage, his grin growing bigger as he stood before the ODECON delegates.

"So, ladies and gentlemen, I trust your meal is to your satisfaction? You seem far better guests than your Nachmerian counterparts - young fool saw fit to start bringing weapons aboard my vehicle. There shall be a very lucky track maintenance worker sometime soon I think!"

Novacek chuckled at the comment made by his Nachmeren colleague. "And I was growing quite fond of my standard issue pistol, such a pity." he said dryly. There really was no reason for doing such a thing, but apparently reason didn't seem to matter much to ODECON members. "You know, I think they would find us much more civil if they treated us with just an ounce of respect. Instead they treat us as mere children. Did you notice the Hegemon delegation was accompanied by bodyguards?"

"I think you mean the 'Sumguaian' delegation, sir." A voice from a compartment a little ways down the hall spoke, as the two bodyguards appeared from within. "We are the personal security of Ms. Basset, who is both the head-of-state of the Holy Empire, and the head of the alliance known as the Hegemony." The speaker continued, approaching the group. He was a giant of a man, and sported a cross-shaped tattoo on his neck. Had the rest of his upper body not been concealed by the suit he was wearing, the delegates would have noticed that it's entirety was covered in similar markings. "I do apologize if the Hegemon's high level of security offends you, but her predecessor, May we not falter from the path he lay before us*, fell to an assassin's bullet upon signing the treaty that ended the great war between the Hegemony and the League of Imperial Ocean-faring Nations. We do not wish for such to become a pattern."

*OOC: in this case the italic text denotes that the speaker is saying the words quickly and in a low voice, almost to himself.

"I think you mean the 'Sumguaian' delegation, sir." A voice from a compartment a little ways down the hall spoke, as the two bodyguards appeared from within. "We are the personal security of Ms. Basset, who is both the head-of-state of the Holy Empire, and the head of the alliance known as the Hegemony." The speaker continued, approaching the group. He was a giant of a man, and sported a cross-shaped tattoo on his neck. Had the rest of his upper body not been concealed by the suit he was wearing, the delegates would have noticed that it's entirety was covered in similar markings. "I do apologize if the Hegemon's high level of security offends you, but her predecessor, May we not falter from the path he lay before us*, fell to an assassin's bullet upon signing the treaty that ended the great war between the Hegemony and the League of Imperial Ocean-faring Nations. We do not wish for such to become a pattern."

"My apologies, thank you for the correction." said Novacek. The man was certainly large, however if he was trying to be intimidating, he'd have to do better. "I have no issue with the Hegemon's security measures, however our host seems to be singling out delegations for special treatment, having just relieved myself and General Tork here of our personal side arms. I was merely remarking how it's a double standard, you allowed to provide protection, and we are forced to rely on the security of the opposing side. May I convey my condolences for your lost leader, for I did not mean to take the security of such a high value target so lightly, I merely wish I were able to keep my person secure as well." Finished, Novacek bowed slightly before saying "Would you please excuse me? I must get back to my fellow delegates."

Tork looked at Novacek and smiled. So far he was not sure if this man and his country will support the Wolf Holdians against ODECON. Now he was far more convinced. But he wanted to make sure.
“We are talking about people who let railway officials do their diplomacy for them, and that consider a foreign General armed with a pistol a dire threat. We are seriously across the porthole to another dimension. I hope Oseato will stand by us here, because there is no reasoning with a nation that allows such treatment of its guests. Now, Generals, shall we sit down to eat? We might as well get a meal out of this whole affair?”

"As I was just informing General Fell, The Federation will stand by The Wolf Hold and all allies of Wolf Hold." spoke Novacek as he rejoined the group. "A meal sounds like a good idea, General. Might as well enjoy the luxury while we have it."

OOC: Oseato, i think you missed the post right before yours..

Komnenos approached the table with the look of a man heading to his own execution, and sat down. When he had done so, he wasted no time in coming to the point, speaking in a low voice.

"I have full authority to negotiate from Her Highness on any salient points required, so I'll get to the point. It is my judgement that the Wolf Hold makes a poor ally for the Empire. Unfortunately, they're a part of the CIN - the only alliance that the Empire is a member of."

"I am certain that if I returned to Her Majesty with an invitation to ODECON membership and a promise of ODECON assistance in our civil conflict, she would be quite happy for the Empire to take ODECON's side in any conflict that arises out of this conference."

(OOC: Yeah, I know - the [in]famous Byzantine intrigue rears its ugly head again. To those who are interested, I'll explain what's what later. Yes, I do have my NPCs straight and know what motivates each of them.)

(OOC: Not ignoring you NC, just want to take the time to speak with the rest of ODECON first. Consider the following post to be a side conversation)

IC:

As Representative Komnenos sat down, General Thompson finally noticed President Klein entering the dining car. Now that he had the opportunity to complete his mission, he rose and excused himself. While he knew it might appear rude to the Imperial diplomat, he was confident both sides knew that his input in their conversation would most likely be minimal, at best.

Instead, he could now approach President Klein, attempt to steer him somewhere they could have a private conversation, and accomplish his mission. Walking up to the President, he snapped off a salute and introduced himself.

"Sir, since we have not been introduced, I'm General Thompson, C.O. of the 5th Airborne Division, of Salzland. Might I have a moment of your time, sir?"

OOC: Thank you, edited my previous post to include a response to yours.

“Excellent, let’s take a seat than. Perhaps our hosts would be as kind as to trust us with a knife? Or maybe we will get small plastic ones? So we don’t hurt anyone by accident?”

"My apologies, thank you for the correction." said Novacek. The man was certainly large, however if he was trying to be intimidating, he'd have to do better. "I have no issue with the Hegemon's security measures, however our host seems to be singling out delegations for special treatment, having just relieved myself and General Tork here of our personal side arms. I was merely remarking how it's a double standard, you allowed to provide protection, and we are forced to rely on the security of the opposing side. May I convey my condolences for your lost leader, for I did not mean to take the security of such a high value target so lightly, I merely wish I were able to keep my person secure as well." Finished, Novacek bowed slightly before saying "Would you please excuse me? I must get back to my fellow delegates."


"I think the difference is that you sir, are not a head of state, I am not a representative in these talks, and that there are a number of people who would view an event such as this as an opportunity to assassinate the Hegemon, for her enemies are not few in number. Rest assured that the Hegemon has no firearm upon her person. Perhaps if you wish to talk of double standards you would care to first notice that your Wolf-Holdian friend surrendered no weapon. I think it highly unlikely that he has none." The bodyguard bowed in return. "I apologize for having consumed too much of your time, please inform me if there is any way in which I may be of assistance to you during your stay on this train. I am here to ensure the safety of all aboard, for should harm occur to any of the diplomats present it would not be beneficial to the Holy Empire or it's image."

OOC: I don't recall anyone banning bodyguards - they were expected, hence the reason I added an extra support staff car rather than the usual single car - it's not double standards at all, simply that delegates really don't tend to carry weaponry in a civilised environment. Hell, I wouldn't let military personnel carry weaponry to a diplomatic event, no matter where it was. It's just silly on Nachmere's part to allow his general to carry such a massive, obvious weapon, as if the commandant couldn't see it, he wouldn't know it was there to be confiscated.

ooc: firstly, i dont see how a body guard carrying a piece is any more civilizd than a 4 star general who simply chosses defend himself. of course, the generals assistant is also armed, and he is indeed in the staff car, which means 90% of the time he is not around, unless you want him to stick to the general all thetime, at which point i dont see the diffrence if the general is carrying or his assistant. as for the size of the gun, i wasent going to hide it from you, infact if you read the post where he puts it on, he knows it is plainly visable. Tork isent going to spy around with a concealed gun, its not his style. talking about stupidety whats up with a train commandant talking to foreign officials like he is the master of the universe? anyways, the whole gun thing gave me a few good laughs, espcially calling a 4 star general who commands 250000 troops on a regular basis and 750000 in war time an "upstart general"...good times.

OOC: IC =/= OOC. Adenia can profess an undying love for porcupines in IC, but it doesn't mean jack in real life. Don't take it so personally.

OOC: Erm Kirav....we were in a corridor outside the Wolf Hold cabins, unless you are in the hallway you wouldn't know about this

Oy. I'll fix that.

ooc: firstly, i dont see how a body guard carrying a piece is any more civilizd than a 4 star general who simply chosses defend himself. of course, the generals assistant is also armed, and he is indeed in the staff car, which means 90% of the time he is not around, unless you want him to stick to the general all thetime, at which point i dont see the diffrence if the general is carrying or his assistant. as for the size of the gun, i wasent going to hide it from you, infact if you read the post where he puts it on, he knows it is plainly visable. Tork isent going to spy around with a concealed gun, its not his style. talking about stupidety whats up with a train commandant talking to foreign officials like he is the master of the universe? anyways, the whole gun thing gave me a few good laughs, espcially calling a 4 star general who commands 250000 troops on a regular basis and 750000 in war time an "upstart general"...good times.

OOC: Well for a start, it's a diplomatic conference. The difference is that one is a diplomat, the other is a bodyguard. There is a world of difference. A bodyguard's job is to guard. A diplomat's job, whether he is a general or a private or a civilian, is not to carry a gun around, it is to conduct diplomacy. Any normal nation in the real world would likely as not march you offsite at gunpoint, so really, you got off lightly. Defending oneself is not necessary at a diplomatic conference where the only people carrying guns are you and your allies - not a single ODECON delegate has a weapon on them.

That train commandant has served almost 40 years in the Adenian Military and has been commander of that train for 10 - when he gets a bunch of puffed-up self-importants from a nation two-thirds the size of his own demanding to be allowed to breach international etiquette, and pretending they're the masters and he's the servant, he's understandably aggravated. Whilst you are aboard that train, certain levels of etiquette are to be followed, which are normally common to all diplomatic functions. You have, so far, visibly held a weapon at a diplomatic event, insulted the train commandant multiple times, insulted both host nations (Adenia and Parilisa), and generally acted extremely belligerently to a rather powerful alliance. To be honest, you're lucky not to be confined to your cabin with two gun-toting guards outside the door. When you are aboard his vehicle, he is the master of the universe - had you started by treating him with respect by not making ridiculous claims against ODECON and generally encouraging the conference to get more aggressive.

Further to that, you then proceeded to insult him in plain view of other diplomats when he asked you to relieve yourself of your weapon. What reason has he got exactly to treat Tork with respect?

OOC: I fail to see why you would not trust trained military professionals with their own defense. Instead of endangering a bodyguard or two, I find I'd rather have a career military man defend himself. Since my nation is sending a military man as a delegate, someone trained in using a firearm, why bother sending bodyguards? I think that choice should be left to the nation in question, not arbitrarily established guidelines. This is all beside the point, what I believe and what the character believe are different things. I understand where you are coming from and why you would disarm someone, however General Novacek might perceive it as an insult or snub (particularly after you tossed the gun in question out the window) as many people do when they don't agree with another party in an argument.

IC:

"Perhaps they should just give us sporks or finger food. My aide once received a nasty gash from someone wielding a rusty spoon once, I wouldn't want such a repeat of events" joked Novacek as he walked to the dinning car with the Nachmere General. "In any event, I am intrigued to know what sort of meals they serve here."

OOC: I fail to see why you would not trust trained military professionals with their own defense. Instead of endangering a bodyguard or two, I find I'd rather have a career military man defend himself. Since my nation is sending a military man as a delegate, someone trained in using a firearm, why bother sending bodyguards? I think that choice should be left to the nation in question, not arbitrarily established guidelines. This is all beside the point, what I believe and what the character believe are different things. I understand where you are coming from and why you would disarm someone, however General Novacek might perceive it as an insult or snub particularly after you tossed the gun in question out the window, as many people do when they don't agree with another party in an argument.

OOC: Because they are either acting in the capacity of a military official or they are acting in the capacity of a diplomat. You cannot be both - if you are carrying a weapon into a diplomatic conference, you are acting in the capacity of a military official and are therefore classed as a bodyguard. Perhaps if Tork had not been so rude, the gun might still be on the train? The Commandant treats people with respect if they have shown willingness to earn it, not generally been arrogant and pretending that they are miles above him in a nonexistent ladder. Generally, it is good etiquette to follow your host nation's protocols rather than to wander in claiming your own take precedence.

It would not exactly have been hard, considering that not a single ODECON delegate was carrying a weapon, for the TWH/Nachmerians to slaughter every ODECON member present - it really is simple diplomatic etiquette that you are open and transparent with the other parties - bringing weapons in is not only offensive to the hosts in that you are implying they have ulterior motives, but it's simply undiplomatic.

OOC: Because they are either acting in the capacity of a military official or they are acting in the capacity of a diplomat. You cannot be both - if you are carrying a weapon into a diplomatic conference, you are acting in the capacity of a military official and are therefore classed as a bodyguard. Perhaps if Tork had not been so rude, the gun might still be on the train? The Commandant treats people with respect if they have shown willingness to earn it, not generally been arrogant and pretending that they are miles above him in a nonexistent ladder. Generally, it is good etiquette to follow your host nation's protocols rather than to wander in claiming your own take precedence.

OOC: I don't recall any remarks specifically banning the diplomats from carrying weapons, so it might be understandable that Tork might be a little ticked off when you demand he turn over his personal weapons. And why is it one can't be a military official and Diplomatic official? My country is run by a military junta, the Foreign Minister himself is a General. Novacek holds a command in the Oseaton Military and in the Foreign Ministry, who is another nation to determine his role? He was sent, like the delegate from Nachmere, to act as a representative at the conference, he wasn't stripped of his military rank in the mean time. Since this was a military matter, he was also acting in the same sort of military advisor role one would hold had the delegate been a civilian, thus making him both a military official and diplomat.

How is it an ulterior motive to carry a firearm to defend oneself? Your security guards are carrying weapons, are they going to massacre the assembled CIS delegates? I sincerely doubt it. What if Wolf Hold did decide to go on a massive rampage, shouldn't my general be able to defend himself instead of relying on others?

Regardless of your answers or my opinions, shall we continue on with the conference? The gun is already gone, I think the characters have the right to express their own feelings and thoughts, regardless of what happened in reality.

OOC: I don't recall any remarks specifically banning the diplomats from carrying weapons, so it might be understand that Tork might be a little ticked off when you demand he turn over his personal weapons. And why is it one can't be a military official and Diplomatic official? My country is run by a military junta, the Foreign Minister himself is a General. Novacek holds a command in the Oseaton Military and in the Foreign Ministry, who is another nation to determine his role? He was sent, like the delegate from Nachmere, to act as a representative at the conference, he wasn't stripped of his military rank in the mean time. Since this was a military matter, he was also acting in the same sort of military advisor role one would hold had the delegate been a civilian, thus making him both a military official and diplomat.

OOC: It's a given of international and diplomatic etiquette that you don't - I would expect any nation to know that it is better not to carry them just in case it does offend the host. If you are acting in the capacity of someone who brings a gun to a diplomatic conference, it can be safely assumed by the host that you are not a diplomat. Adenia, for example, as you can see, takes great offence to suggestions that their own guard is not sufficient, that they or their allies intend to kill foreign diplomats, and that their version of etiquette is inferior to another visiting nation's and therefore must be disregarded.

If it is a fear of being assassinated at a conference, then you should not have come - it's really quite simple. Videoconferencing is widespread in today's world, we would not have been averse to such a suggestion. If the Wolf Holdians intended to go on a massive rampage, they would have been promptly shot by the guards. Again, if you felt that the Adenian complement was insufficient, then you should not have come.

But yes, I shall get another IC post up. Really, the train crew have nothing against any of you, merely the fact that you were carrying weapons.

IC:

The waitress met them at the door. Showing them to a table well away from the ODECON delegation and their party, she brushed down her ODENOM uniform and quietly requested their orders.

"There is very little we cannot cater for on this particular voyage, but our chef is specialising in beef steaks. The Popeseye is particularly good, extremely tender. Or perhaps the skirt steak? A little tougher, but full of flavour. You may also wish to request a wine - the 1914 Claret Bordeaux is from an excellent year."

OOC: General Novacek has no fear of being assassinated at the conference, however it is generally better to take precautions.

IC:

Novacek glanced at the Nachmere general before he went ahead and placed his order. "Well ma'am, I think I'll take your advice and order the Popeseye and the 1914 Claret Bordeaux." smiling as he finished his order, while he did enjoy wine, it wasn't often he could enjoy a bottle of such vintage.

Teodoros knew that he was here essentially as a suppliant, so he waited his turn for the Salzlander's attention.

General Tork was now far more relaxed than a few minutes ago. Sometimes he felt like only yesterday he was greasing tanks in -10C temperatures in the Nachmere Mountains. He also did not get much in the way of luxury even as a General. So if nothing else, at least he could have a more than decent meal.

“Ma’am, I will have the Popeseye as well, if it’s no trouble. And if you have a decent tap beer, I would love to have a pint.”
He never liked wine much, and though he knew ordering beer on such an event would look very simple and uneducated, he could hardly look worse to his hosts than he already has.

OOC: General Novacek has no fear of being assassinated at the conference, however it is generally better to take precautions.

IC:

Novacek glanced at the Nachmere general before he went ahead and placed his order. "Well ma'am, I think I'll take your advice and order the Popeseye and the 1914 Claret Bordeaux." smiling as he finished his order, while he did enjoy wine, it wasn't often he could enjoy a bottle of such vintage.

General Tork was now far more relaxed than a few minutes ago. Sometimes he felt like only yesterday he was greasing tanks in -10C temperatures in the Nachmere Mountains. He also did not get much in the way of luxury even as a General. So if nothing else, at least he could have a more than decent meal.

“Ma’am, I will have the Popeseye as well, if it’s no trouble. And if you have a decent tap beer, I would love to have a pint.”
He never liked wine much, and though he knew ordering beer on such an event would look very simple and uneducated, he could hardly look worse to his hosts than he already has.

"Of course sirs. Two popeseye steaks, shall I take them both as medium cooked? I shall bring your drinks over posthaste." She curtseyed, before returning a minute later. Placing the mug of beer before the Nachmerian, she decanted the claret with a skill honed over years, before pouring a class for the Oseatan.

"Will there be anything else, sirs?"

“Not for me, thank you. Although I did mean to ask, and considering the events so far today I do so with a timid heart…Is there anywhere I can light a cigarette on this train?”

“Not for me, thank you. Although I did mean to ask, and considering the events so far today I do so with a timid heart…Is there anywhere I can light a cigarette on this train?”

The waitress smiled. She had heard the many commotions across the train, and the rumours had spread that there were a few select characters at the centre of them.

"Of course sir, though I see no reason for you to be afraid of me! The saloon car is the designated smoking area, in the next carriage down. We have various cigars and cigarettes on board from across the world, and you can take either with some of the finest and oldest whiskies from the most prestigious distilleries the globe over."

“You are very kind. Please take this for your trouble.” He handed her 20 Adenian Sterlings. “If only all of the delegates had your kindness I think we could have been done here already.”

"Ma'am, this fantastic bottle of wine should do it for me, but thank you for asking." After hearing about the availability of cigars in the saloon car, Novacek made a mental note to make that his next stop after the meal. "One question is there anything you can't get on this train?" joked Novacek.

Tzetzes first decided to go to his quarters. Once there he had the following message sent to the Emperor.

Talks have so far failed. We have broken off for the moment but will continue later. Wolf Holdians have proven unco-operative as expected and it is likely we will need to pay the reparations ourselves. I will continue sending news on the progress of the talks as soon as I can.

He then dedided to go straight to the restaurant car, thinking I could use a good meal after that meeting, which in my opinion was an utter waste of time.

“You are very kind. Please take this for your trouble.” He handed her 20 Adenian Sterlings. “If only all of the delegates had your kindness I think we could have been done here already.”

"Thank you sir, you are most kind. Although, if I may be so bold, in a room full of fiercely patriotic men and women, tempers fray. We all look out for our nation's best interests do we not?"

She curtseyed once more, a bleep at her waist indicating their food was ready. She returned, two massive steaks on plates, all trimmings included, with sauces from exotic places imported especially.

"As with everything else, sir, this meal is entirely complimentary, courtesy of Her Majesty's Government. I trust you will enjoy it!" A slight laugh played on her voice as she turned to the Oseatan. "Well, sir, I believe we've run out of Mahi-Mahi tuna! Naturally, sir, the Adenian government strives to give it's guests the best of everything, but we cannot provide everything. However, feel free to ask if something in particular is available, and we shall do our best to find out."

Curtseying again, she stood back from the table - on hand in case anything was further needed.

Tzetzes was met by the maitre d', who sat him next to the ODECON party.

"Sir, welcome aboard. May I take your order? The skirt steak is particularly good today, especially with the Cabernet..."