Diplomatic Talks between Decius and Weimar Germany

[New Decius]

OOC: This is meant for the discussion of a dispute between the nations of Decius and Weimar Germany.

IC:

Richter International Airport; Daurus; Fourth Reich of Decius

In order to organize a suitable reception for the incoming diplomatic delegation, the Sicherheitspolizei had shut down Richter International Airport to civilian and commercial traffic for several hours to clear the area. Runway J-1 had been cleared for the incoming delegation, and as such a welcoming committee was waiting off to the side of the runway. A red carpet had been rolled out in a straight line from the edge of the runway where the delegation would step off the plane, to the entrance to the Central Terminal.
Lining this red carpet on either side were Banners with a white circle in a sea of red and in that circle was a black Iron Cross. In the center of the Iron Cross was the German Eagle in gold. On both sides of the red carpet, behind the banners, was a column of about 50 of the High Imperial Guard on either side. The High Imperial Guard was separate from the Imperial Guard and were a ceremonial regiment only. These High Imperial Guards wore the uniforms of the old Prussian Kurassier's; A cream colored waist-length jacket with tails, matching color trousers, high collars, Swedish Cuffs, and the traditional steel Pickelhaube Spiked Helmets of Prussia.
At the end of the carpet were several waiting individuals. The first was an elderly gentlemen with graying hair and cerulean blue eyes. He wore a freshly pressed suit with black loafers. The second was a man who looked to be around 29 or 30. He was tall, six feet or so, with an athletic build. The man wore a black SS-Uniform Jacket over a beige shirt and tie. There was the usual double S insignia on both sides of the collar. The Jacket was also adorned by gold epaulets and a silver Aiguillette and gold cuff lings. The Lapel of the uniform was adorned by a number of medals and awards. He also wore black uniform pants, black uniform jackboots and gloves, and the traditional black SS-Deathshead Cap.
The elderly gentlemen was Reichsminister Josef Kostler, Head of the Reichsaußenministerium, and being that this was an important event, he had decided that instead of sending a regular diplomat, he as Head of Foreign Affairs would attend these talks to represent Decius. The second man was SS-Reichsfuhrer Heinrich Gautlier, Commander-in Chief of the Schutzstaffel, and therefore by extension the man in charge of the Internal Security of the Reich. The Kaiser was waiting at the Senate Assembly Building were the talks were to take place.
So it was that they waited.

[Weimar Germany]

"Are we quite there yet, sir?"

The head of the delegation asked the pilot politely, without too much concern. He had been captain of one too many diplomatic missions already, and was quite acquainted to success in getting what the Reich wanted: concessions, and lots of it. He went around the world pleading the injustice of the Treaty of Versailles, and continued about how the world owed Germany a helping hand and some nice treaty articles. Since the 60s, however, Germany has re-established herself as a pre-eminent centre of industry and technology, as she rightfully ought to be, being smack centre stage in Europe. His celebrated name, as a diplomat, was Lucas Weistha. His title, Reichsaussenminister, a fancy name for "Foreign Secretary".

"Yes," the pilot said, without turning to see his principal passenger, "we are almost landing, sir. Please fasten your seat belts in preparation for landing. Crew be seated."

He donned a dark blue suit for the occasion, which was by any standard an unusual one. The Reich really had nothing to gain out of this one, only to prevent a loss. He had given very careful thought to this issue, and came to the conclusion that to do nothing was the best plan of action. He looked back into the cabin in which was seated all the other members of this delegation. Directly behind him was the deputy of the delegation, Reichswirtschaftminister. A third member was present, being the delegate in the Reichsrat from Prussia Free State. Numerous other aides and charge d'affaires were also present, but none of them bore any diplomatic rank. All the members had their hats removed, to avoid crumpling them when asleep. Two wore dark blue suits, not including himself, and three more in grey. He wore a white shirt and a solitary green bow tie. In his suitcase were suitable evening and morning dress, supplemented with a black tie should the occasion be neither formal nor informal. Before the journey, he had wondered whether to bring his wife as well, and he decided for it; his delegation, however, weren't uniform on this issue, and only the Reichswirtschaftminister brought along his wife.

"This is Lufthansa flight No. 808, pilot Attor speaking, requesting permission to land on J-1."

Someone murmured on the other side of the radio, and the plane safely touched down on the runway. The members of the delegation in toto roused from their slumber, replaced their hats, and they stepped out from its front door. The bright sunlight assaulted their faces, and the principal delegate forced a grin to this familiar but also foreign land. He ambled down the staircase accompanied by his wife, a middle-aged woman of no great physical distinction, but the most maternal grace and diplomatic savvy. Walking directly to the welcoming party, he took confident but not outlandish strides, and removed his hat.

"I am Reichsaussenminister Lucas Weistha, and may I also introduce my wife, Luisa Gunaiki Weistha. How do you do?"

[New Decius]

"Are we quite there yet, sir?"

The head of the delegation asked the pilot politely, without too much concern. He had been captain of one too many diplomatic missions already, and was quite acquainted to success in getting what the Reich wanted: concessions, and lots of it. He went around the world pleading the injustice of the Treaty of Versailles, and continued about how the world owed Germany a helping hand and some nice treaty articles. Since the 60s, however, Germany has re-established herself as a pre-eminent centre of industry and technology, as she rightfully ought to be, being smack centre stage in Europe. His celebrated name, as a diplomat, was Lucas Weistha. His title, Reichsaussenminister, a fancy name for "Foreign Secretary".

"Yes," the pilot said, without turning to see his principal passenger, "we are almost landing, sir. Please fasten your seat belts in preparation for landing. Crew be seated."

He donned a dark blue suit for the occasion, which was by any standard an unusual one. The Reich really had nothing to gain out of this one, only to prevent a loss. He had given very careful thought to this issue, and came to the conclusion that to do nothing was the best plan of action. He looked back into the cabin in which was seated all the other members of this delegation. Directly behind him was the deputy of the delegation, Reichswirtschaftminister. A third member was present, being the delegate in the Reichsrat from Prussia Free State. Numerous other aides and charge d'affaires were also present, but none of them bore any diplomatic rank. All the members had their hats removed, to avoid crumpling them when asleep. Two wore dark blue suits, not including himself, and three more in grey. He wore a white shirt and a solitary green bow tie. In his suitcase were suitable evening and morning dress, supplemented with a black tie should the occasion be neither formal nor informal. Before the journey, he had wondered whether to bring his wife as well, and he decided for it; his delegation, however, weren't uniform on this issue, and only the Reichswirtschaftminister brought along his wife.

"This is Lufthansa flight No. 808, pilot Attor speaking, requesting permission to land on J-1."

Someone murmured on the other side of the radio, and the plane safely touched down on the runway. The members of the delegation in toto roused from their slumber, replaced their hats, and they stepped out from its front door. The bright sunlight assaulted their faces, and the principal delegate forced a grin to this familiar but also foreign land. He ambled down the staircase accompanied by his wife, a middle-aged woman of no great physical distinction, but the most maternal grace and diplomatic savvy. Walking directly to the welcoming party, he took confident but not outlandish strides, and removed his hat.

"I am Reichsaussenminister Lucas Weistha, and may I also introduce my wife, Luisa Gunaiki Weistha. How do you do?"

Kostler smiled as he extended his hand to shake. "A Pleasure to meet you Herr Reichsaussenminister Weistha. And you as well Frau Weistha. I am Reichsminister Josef Kostler, Head of the Reichsaußenministerium. I decided your visit was too important for a regular diplomat to meet you. I trust your flight was not uncomfortable?" Just then Gautlier cleared his throat and the elderly Reichsminister remembered his presence. "Oh. This..." He gestured at Gautlier. "Is SS-Reichsfuhrer Heinrich Gautlier, Commander-in Chief of the SS and by extension the man in charge of the Internal Security of the Reich." Gautlier gave a light smile, clicked his jackboots in military fashion. Kostler smiled some more. "Shall we go through the terminal to the car?"

[Weimar Germany]

"Are we quite there yet, sir?"

The head of the delegation asked the pilot politely, without too much concern. He had been captain of one too many diplomatic missions already, and was quite acquainted to success in getting what the Reich wanted: concessions, and lots of it. He went around the world pleading the injustice of the Treaty of Versailles, and continued about how the world owed Germany a helping hand and some nice treaty articles. Since the 60s, however, Germany has re-established herself as a pre-eminent centre of industry and technology, as she rightfully ought to be, being smack centre stage in Europe. His celebrated name, as a diplomat, was Lucas Weistha. His title, Reichsaussenminister, a fancy name for "Foreign Secretary".

"Yes," the pilot said, without turning to see his principal passenger, "we are almost landing, sir. Please fasten your seat belts in preparation for landing. Crew be seated."

He donned a dark blue suit for the occasion, which was by any standard an unusual one. The Reich really had nothing to gain out of this one, only to prevent a loss. He had given very careful thought to this issue, and came to the conclusion that to do nothing was the best plan of action. He looked back into the cabin in which was seated all the other members of this delegation. Directly behind him was the deputy of the delegation, Reichswirtschaftminister. A third member was present, being the delegate in the Reichsrat from Prussia Free State. Numerous other aides and charge d'affaires were also present, but none of them bore any diplomatic rank. All the members had their hats removed, to avoid crumpling them when asleep. Two wore dark blue suits, not including himself, and three more in grey. He wore a white shirt and a solitary green bow tie. In his suitcase were suitable evening and morning dress, supplemented with a black tie should the occasion be neither formal nor informal. Before the journey, he had wondered whether to bring his wife as well, and he decided for it; his delegation, however, weren't uniform on this issue, and only the Reichswirtschaftminister brought along his wife.

"This is Lufthansa flight No. 808, pilot Attor speaking, requesting permission to land on J-1."

Someone murmured on the other side of the radio, and the plane safely touched down on the runway. The members of the delegation in toto roused from their slumber, replaced their hats, and they stepped out from its front door. The bright sunlight assaulted their faces, and the principal delegate forced a grin to this familiar but also foreign land. He ambled down the staircase accompanied by his wife, a middle-aged woman of no great physical distinction, but the most maternal grace and diplomatic savvy. Walking directly to the welcoming party, he took confident but not outlandish strides, and removed his hat.

"I am Reichsaussenminister Lucas Weistha, and may I also introduce my wife, Luisa Gunaiki Weistha. How do you do?"

Kostler smiled as he extended his hand to shake. "A Pleasure to meet you Herr Reichsaussenminister Weistha. And you as well Frau Weistha. I am Reichsminister Josef Kostler, Head of the Reichsaußenministerium. I decided your visit was too important for a regular diplomat to meet you. I trust your flight was not uncomfortable?" Just then Gautlier cleared his throat and the elderly Reichsminister remembered his presence. "Oh. This..." He gestured at Gautlier. "Is SS-Reichsfuhrer Heinrich Gautlier, Commander-in Chief of the SS and by extension the man in charge of the Internal Security of the Reich." Gautlier gave a light smile, clicked his jackboots in military fashion. Kostler smiled some more. "Shall we go through the terminal to the car?"

Reichsaussenminister Weistha cordially extended his warm, supple palm for the shake; he replied, "Not bad at all, and the flight was very smooth through your air, hoping perhaps that it foreshadows an equally enjoyable time to be spent between our two delegations."

He then turned to the rest of the delegation, and introduced them individually according to diplomatic rank.

"This gentleman," he gestured at the Gedect, in the grey suit and blue tie, wearing a non-official order on his chest, "is Gedect Lein, my cabinet colleague, the Reichswirtschaftminister. He and I enjoy the closest relationship in the provision for the welfare and common good of the public, as well as interceding on behalf of the Laender to ensure equal economic development. The nation reposes in him their sole confidence to manage the procurement of public revenue, alongside of course the Vizekanzler, holding the finance portfolio simultaneously. His lady stands beside him. We can get to know better on a personal level, all of us, when we are settled."

Seeing Gaultier in his smart uniform, he nodded in response to his gesture, but said nothing more.

Having done introductions for the more important members of the delegation, he accepted the offer to walk through the terminal to the car. He quite appreciated their efforts taken in clearing the terminal for the delegation, even though it were overly grand and made them look perhaps overly important.

[New Decius]

Kostler smiled as he extended his hand to shake. "A Pleasure to meet you Herr Reichsaussenminister Weistha. And you as well Frau Weistha. I am Reichsminister Josef Kostler, Head of the Reichsaußenministerium. I decided your visit was too important for a regular diplomat to meet you. I trust your flight was not uncomfortable?" Just then Gautlier cleared his throat and the elderly Reichsminister remembered his presence. "Oh. This..." He gestured at Gautlier. "Is SS-Reichsfuhrer Heinrich Gautlier, Commander-in Chief of the SS and by extension the man in charge of the Internal Security of the Reich." Gautlier gave a light smile, clicked his jackboots in military fashion. Kostler smiled some more. "Shall we go through the terminal to the car?"

Reichsaussenminister Weistha cordially extended his warm, supple palm for the shake; he replied, "Not bad at all, and the flight was very smooth through your air, hoping perhaps that it foreshadows an equally enjoyable time to be spent between our two delegations."

He then turned to the rest of the delegation, and introduced them individually according to diplomatic rank.

"This gentleman," he gestured at the Gedect, in the grey suit and blue tie, wearing a non-official order on his chest, "is Gedect Lein, my cabinet colleague, the Reichswirtschaftminister. He and I enjoy the closest relationship in the provision for the welfare and common good of the public, as well as interceding on behalf of the Laender to ensure equal economic development. The nation reposes in him their sole confidence to manage the procurement of public revenue, alongside of course the Vizekanzler, holding the finance portfolio simultaneously. His lady stands beside him. We can get to know better on a personal level, all of us, when we are settled."

Seeing Gaultier in his smart uniform, he nodded in response to his gesture, but said nothing more.

Having done introductions for the more important members of the delegation, he accepted the offer to walk through the terminal to the car. He quite appreciated their efforts taken in clearing the terminal for the delegation, even though it were overly grand and made them look perhaps overly important.

The group was lead through the terminal though as they entered there was a section of the Waiting Area taped off with Kripo* Officers standing in front of it as others worked behind the rope. On the ground were several white sheets over objects that appeared to be oddly body shaped. There were two InterSiPo** Detectives leaning down and examining the scene. Kostler turned quickly to explain but Gautlier beat him to it. "A little trouble with some Communists the other day. No Civilian or Official Casualties. Three men ran in with automatic Weapons, threatened to shoot everyone, and then were assaulted by several young seventeen year old boys on leave from the Reichsjugendkorps***. Airport Security gunned them down and nobody but the Commies was killed. Though one of the boys was slashed by a knife, he'll live. Their getting the Iron Cross for their bravery." Kostler then turned to speak from the political standpoint.
"The Decian Communist Party was active for three years under the previous Kaiser, Kaiser Adrian, however they got so desperate for members when Kaiser Wilhelm came to power last year. You see a vast majority of Decius and the Government shared the Kaiser's somewhat National Socialist views, including Anti-Communism. They got very desperate and started resorting to violence. It was decided by both the Senate and Reichstag that it would be in the best interest of the people if their party was dissolved altogether. Needless to say, they did not take it so well." The walk outside continued. Once they got outside, there was not a regular car waiting, rather a red high speed, double-decker bullet train. Or at least a five car one. The SS Insignia was on the side. On the inside it was very luxurious, better than a five star hotel room.
Gautlier spoke again gesturing at the bullet train. "Private Train for security. Please do step aboard. The Kaiser is waiting at the Senate Assembly Building."

OOC:
*Kripo is the Kriminalpolizei, the standard detective force of my national police force, the Geheime Stattspolizei or Gestapo. Their basically my version of CSI's only without the tv show haha.
**InterSiPo is the Interne Sicherheitspolizei, my Internal Security Police.
***The Reichsjugendkorps is the youth wing for the SS, SA, and Wehrmacht. Any Youth age 14-18 seeking to join the army later on can join to get training and experience. It is the parent organization of the Liga der Deutsche Kinder, which is just a Youth Organization for advanced education to children age 6-12.

[Weimar Germany]

Reichsaussenminister Weistha cordially extended his warm, supple palm for the shake; he replied, "Not bad at all, and the flight was very smooth through your air, hoping perhaps that it foreshadows an equally enjoyable time to be spent between our two delegations."

He then turned to the rest of the delegation, and introduced them individually according to diplomatic rank.

"This gentleman," he gestured at the Gedect, in the grey suit and blue tie, wearing a non-official order on his chest, "is Gedect Lein, my cabinet colleague, the Reichswirtschaftminister. He and I enjoy the closest relationship in the provision for the welfare and common good of the public, as well as interceding on behalf of the Laender to ensure equal economic development. The nation reposes in him their sole confidence to manage the procurement of public revenue, alongside of course the Vizekanzler, holding the finance portfolio simultaneously. His lady stands beside him. We can get to know better on a personal level, all of us, when we are settled."

Seeing Gaultier in his smart uniform, he nodded in response to his gesture, but said nothing more.

Having done introductions for the more important members of the delegation, he accepted the offer to walk through the terminal to the car. He quite appreciated their efforts taken in clearing the terminal for the delegation, even though it were overly grand and made them look perhaps overly important.

The group was lead through the terminal though as they entered there was a section of the Waiting Area taped off with Kripo* Officers standing in front of it as others worked behind the rope. On the ground were several white sheets over objects that appeared to be oddly body shaped. There were two InterSiPo** Detectives leaning down and examining the scene. Kostler turned quickly to explain but Gautlier beat him to it. "A little trouble with some Communists the other day. No Civilian or Official Casualties. Three men ran in with automatic Weapons, threatened to shoot everyone, and then were assaulted by several young seventeen year old boys on leave from the Reichsjugendkorps***. Airport Security gunned them down and nobody but the Commies was killed. Though one of the boys was slashed by a knife, he'll live. Their getting the Iron Cross for their bravery." Kostler then turned to speak from the political standpoint.
"The Decian Communist Party was active for three years under the previous Kaiser, Kaiser Adrian, however they got so desperate for members when Kaiser Wilhelm came to power last year. You see a vast majority of Decius and the Government shared the Kaiser's somewhat National Socialist views, including Anti-Communism. They got very desperate and started resorting to violence. It was decided by both the Senate and Reichstag that it would be in the best interest of the people if their party was dissolved altogether. Needless to say, they did not take it so well." The walk outside continued. Once they got outside, there was not a regular car waiting, rather a red high speed, double-decker bullet train. Or at least a five car one. The SS Insignia was on the side. On the inside it was very luxurious, better than a five star hotel room.
Gautlier spoke again gesturing at the bullet train. "Private Train for security. Please do step aboard. The Kaiser is waiting at the Senate Assembly Building."

The Reichsaussenminister had actually already noticed the body-shaped items on the ground without the explanation from the host. Initially he hesitated to react to them, in case paparazzi were present to catch him off guard doing something that could be construed as offensive to New Decius; not that he personally cared about how the citizens of New Decius felt about himself, but he did care how he was received at home. His hopes for the next chancellorship was high, if only he could command the confidence of the Reichstag* and the Reichsrat**. Being the upper house of the bicameral legislature of the Reich, the Reichsrat was the off-centre of power; as of this point it is quite traditional for the Reichskanzler to come from the lower house, but for the Reichsaussenminister from the upper house, and the Reichsfinanzenminister from the lower again. The remainder of the cabinet could come from either house.

In view of the awful situation, he took some action to increase his reputation for decency amongst his own citizenry, but without offending the Decius government: he took off his cap and pressed it against his chest, but without looking at the direction of the bodies. His followers followed suit, each deciding that this was the best towards their own political or bureaucratic careers (there were two ministers and four state-secretaries, along with others). To make sure of everything, he said, "I see that you put your children to good use, though as a parent myself I definitely won't take liberties with the safety of my kin. That being said, I likewise acknowledge their devotion."

"I send my regards," the Reichswirtschaftminister piped, "on behalf of the Staatssekretär für Kinder Angelegenheiten***. Children always do more than what is expected of individuals their age."

"Yes," the Reichsaussenminister replied, "it's a pity that Christien isn't here with us today, isn't it? He would have much to say about those children, unpleasant things, I should think. On the other hand, if things work out today and the few days to come, we might even offer a student-exchange programme, but that's isn't quite our main topic."

"I should hope not," the other Staatssekretär**** replied, "with Albert on vacation and Johann hospitalized, Christien is in charge of the whole department for the remainder of this month. If he's come with us, who would be in charge? The civil servants would run wild and spend the year's budget!"

Feeling that his companions' chatter have perhaps made the host uneasy, he flourished, "Please do not permit our chatter to disturb you. You see, our federal cabinet is in a bit of a personnel shortage, and we're not completely at ease with letting civil servants hold full rein over the establishment of government."

Reaching the carriages, he immediately accepted the invitation. He felt quite pampered with such luxury, but he knew difficult talks were ahead of him.

"Yes," he brightly chimed, "Herr Kostler, we shall accent his Majesty's most gracious invitation and make haste to attend him."

OoC: --

* -- The Reichstag is the directly elected house of the bicameral legislature of the federal government. It seats 22 members from 22 electoral districts.
** -- The Reichsrat is the appointed house of the the bicameral legislature. It seats 9 members elected by the Landtag of the 9 Laender, as well as the ex-officio presiding officer of the house, the Reichspraesident.
*** -- The Permanent Under-Secretary of State for Children, currently superintending all political affairs in the Department of Commerce, which is led by the Reichswirtschafeminister, who is legally absent from the Reich.
**** -- The Permanent Under-Secretary of State for Trade and Tariffs.

[New Decius]

The group was lead through the terminal though as they entered there was a section of the Waiting Area taped off with Kripo* Officers standing in front of it as others worked behind the rope. On the ground were several white sheets over objects that appeared to be oddly body shaped. There were two InterSiPo** Detectives leaning down and examining the scene. Kostler turned quickly to explain but Gautlier beat him to it. "A little trouble with some Communists the other day. No Civilian or Official Casualties. Three men ran in with automatic Weapons, threatened to shoot everyone, and then were assaulted by several young seventeen year old boys on leave from the Reichsjugendkorps***. Airport Security gunned them down and nobody but the Commies was killed. Though one of the boys was slashed by a knife, he'll live. Their getting the Iron Cross for their bravery." Kostler then turned to speak from the political standpoint.
"The Decian Communist Party was active for three years under the previous Kaiser, Kaiser Adrian, however they got so desperate for members when Kaiser Wilhelm came to power last year. You see a vast majority of Decius and the Government shared the Kaiser's somewhat National Socialist views, including Anti-Communism. They got very desperate and started resorting to violence. It was decided by both the Senate and Reichstag that it would be in the best interest of the people if their party was dissolved altogether. Needless to say, they did not take it so well." The walk outside continued. Once they got outside, there was not a regular car waiting, rather a red high speed, double-decker bullet train. Or at least a five car one. The SS Insignia was on the side. On the inside it was very luxurious, better than a five star hotel room.
Gautlier spoke again gesturing at the bullet train. "Private Train for security. Please do step aboard. The Kaiser is waiting at the Senate Assembly Building."

The Reichsaussenminister had actually already noticed the body-shaped items on the ground without the explanation from the host. Initially he hesitated to react to them, in case paparazzi were present to catch him off guard doing something that could be construed as offensive to New Decius; not that he personally cared about how the citizens of New Decius felt about himself, but he did care how he was received at home. His hopes for the next chancellorship was high, if only he could command the confidence of the Reichstag* and the Reichsrat**. Being the upper house of the bicameral legislature of the Reich, the Reichsrat was the off-centre of power; as of this point it is quite traditional for the Reichskanzler to come from the lower house, but for the Reichsaussenminister from the upper house, and the Reichsfinanzenminister from the lower again. The remainder of the cabinet could come from either house.

In view of the awful situation, he took some action to increase his reputation for decency amongst his own citizenry, but without offending the Decius government: he took off his cap and pressed it against his chest, but without looking at the direction of the bodies. His followers followed suit, each deciding that this was the best towards their own political or bureaucratic careers (there were two ministers and four state-secretaries, along with others). To make sure of everything, he said, "I see that you put your children to good use, though as a parent myself I definitely won't take liberties with the safety of my kin. That being said, I likewise acknowledge their devotion."

"I send my regards," the Reichswirtschaftminister piped, "on behalf of the Staatssekretär für Kinder Angelegenheiten***. Children always do more than what is expected of individuals their age."

"Yes," the Reichsaussenminister replied, "it's a pity that Christien isn't here with us today, isn't it? He would have much to say about those children, unpleasant things, I should think. On the other hand, if things work out today and the few days to come, we might even offer a student-exchange programme, but that's isn't quite our main topic."

"I should hope not," the other Staatssekretär**** replied, "with Albert on vacation and Johann hospitalized, Christien is in charge of the whole department for the remainder of this month. If he's come with us, who would be in charge? The civil servants would run wild and spend the year's budget!"

Feeling that his companions' chatter have perhaps made the host uneasy, he flourished, "Please do not permit our chatter to disturb you. You see, our federal cabinet is in a bit of a personnel shortage, and we're not completely at ease with letting civil servants hold full rein over the establishment of government."

Reaching the carriages, he immediately accepted the invitation. He felt quite pampered with such luxury, but he knew difficult talks were ahead of him.

"Yes," he brightly chimed, "Herr Kostler, we shall accent his Majesty's most gracious invitation and make haste to attend him."

OoC: --

* -- The Reichstag is the directly elected house of the bicameral legislature of the federal government. It seats 22 members from 22 electoral districts.
** -- The Reichsrat is the appointed house of the the bicameral legislature. It seats 9 members elected by the Landtag of the 9 Laender, as well as the ex-officio presiding officer of the house, the Reichspraesident.
*** -- The Permanent Under-Secretary of State for Children, currently superintending all political affairs in the Department of Commerce, which is led by the Reichswirtschafeminister, who is legally absent from the Reich.
**** -- The Permanent Under-Secretary of State for Trade and Tariffs.

The Bullet Train shot off like....well like a bullet. They zipped on a rail over the city as one could see the streets and massive amount of tall, glass buildings below. Along with numerous other bullet trains on other rails. Within five minutes they had arrived outside the Senate Assembly Building which was more like a Colosseum with a dome from looking at it from outside. Inside it was much different as it revealed numerous offices and then there was the Senate Assembly Room itself, a giant chamber with numerous seats and panels.
The delegation was lead inside into a closed off Office. It was a It was a big room, but then again the Kaiser sometimes held Staff Meetings in here for the members of Government so it had to be. In the back were a set of floor to ceiling windows allowing a view to the area outside. Ahead of the windows was a finely made mahogany desk neatly made up with a velvet leather chair behind it. On this desk was a neat stack of stationary for when the Kaiser sent Letters personally from himself, a few Office Supplies, a Desk Phone, and a picture. There was a long meeting table in the center of the room with more than two dozen chairs seated at it. Three of these were occupied. One by a man wearing a dark suit like Kostler only he appeared to be at least ten years younger or so. Another by a man who looked about 32 years old, with a fresh and youthful face, yet one that exuded years of combat experience, blue eyes, and blond hair. The man wore a pristine white uniform jacket over a white undershirt and tie. On both sides of the collar was the Iron Cross. The Jacket had gold epaulets and a silver Aiguillette and gold cuff lings. He also had freshly pressed white uniform pants, black jackboots and gloves, and the traditional white military cap. The lapel was adorned by almost every medal in the history of the 2nd and 3rd Reich's, and several from the 4th (Decius). The third man was Kaiser Wilhelm who, being 31 years old, had a tall athletic build and short golden blond hair with cerulean blue eyes and somewhat tanned skin. He was wearing a beige SS Jacket over a white undershirt and a black tie, along with beige SS Uniform Pants. He had shiny black gloves and jackboots and the Jacket had a gold Aiguillette. The lapel of the uniform had the Iron Cross 1st Class, Order of the Black Eagle, Ordre Pour Le Merite, Order of the Star of the Grand Iron Cross, Order of the German Cross, Golden Knight's Cross, and the Grand Iron Cross. All of these had actually been earned by Wilhelm when he was Crown Prince.
The Kaiser and the other two appeared to be sharing a joke over a glass of wine. There was a stack of papers waiting, obviously for the meeting as the men waited for the meeting to start. Gautlier cleared his throat as he and Kostler walked forward and then both snapped to attention and extended their right arms forward. Together they said in unison. "Heil Kaiser Wilhelm!" The Kaiser smiled as he stood up and the men stood at ease. Gautlier stepped forward. "Your Excellency, the Weimar Delegation is here." Wilhelm smiled some more as he set the glass down.
"Please come in, let us get these talks underway before either of us gets antsy and pulls the trigger on something." Wilhelm chuckled a bit." A little joke to lighten the mood." He clicked his jackboots in military fashion and extended his hand for a shake. "Welcome to Decius, esteemed guests. It is a pleasure to be negotiating with another Germanic Nation for a change." He then gestured quickly at his colleagues. He pointed at the man in the suit. "This is Reichsminister Helmut Schliefling, of the Reichsministerium des Innern." Then he gestured at the man in the uniform. "This is Alexander von Kaizer, Oberreichsmarshal of the Armed Forces of the Fourth Reich." von Kaizer clicked his jackboots and took a sip of his wine.

[Weimar Germany]

The Reichsaussenminister had actually already noticed the body-shaped items on the ground without the explanation from the host. Initially he hesitated to react to them, in case paparazzi were present to catch him off guard doing something that could be construed as offensive to New Decius; not that he personally cared about how the citizens of New Decius felt about himself, but he did care how he was received at home. His hopes for the next chancellorship was high, if only he could command the confidence of the Reichstag* and the Reichsrat**. Being the upper house of the bicameral legislature of the Reich, the Reichsrat was the off-centre of power; as of this point it is quite traditional for the Reichskanzler to come from the lower house, but for the Reichsaussenminister from the upper house, and the Reichsfinanzenminister from the lower again. The remainder of the cabinet could come from either house.

In view of the awful situation, he took some action to increase his reputation for decency amongst his own citizenry, but without offending the Decius government: he took off his cap and pressed it against his chest, but without looking at the direction of the bodies. His followers followed suit, each deciding that this was the best towards their own political or bureaucratic careers (there were two ministers and four state-secretaries, along with others). To make sure of everything, he said, "I see that you put your children to good use, though as a parent myself I definitely won't take liberties with the safety of my kin. That being said, I likewise acknowledge their devotion."

"I send my regards," the Reichswirtschaftminister piped, "on behalf of the Staatssekretär für Kinder Angelegenheiten***. Children always do more than what is expected of individuals their age."

"Yes," the Reichsaussenminister replied, "it's a pity that Christien isn't here with us today, isn't it? He would have much to say about those children, unpleasant things, I should think. On the other hand, if things work out today and the few days to come, we might even offer a student-exchange programme, but that's isn't quite our main topic."

"I should hope not," the other Staatssekretär**** replied, "with Albert on vacation and Johann hospitalized, Christien is in charge of the whole department for the remainder of this month. If he's come with us, who would be in charge? The civil servants would run wild and spend the year's budget!"

Feeling that his companions' chatter have perhaps made the host uneasy, he flourished, "Please do not permit our chatter to disturb you. You see, our federal cabinet is in a bit of a personnel shortage, and we're not completely at ease with letting civil servants hold full rein over the establishment of government."

Reaching the carriages, he immediately accepted the invitation. He felt quite pampered with such luxury, but he knew difficult talks were ahead of him.

"Yes," he brightly chimed, "Herr Kostler, we shall accent his Majesty's most gracious invitation and make haste to attend him."

OoC: --

* -- The Reichstag is the directly elected house of the bicameral legislature of the federal government. It seats 22 members from 22 electoral districts.
** -- The Reichsrat is the appointed house of the the bicameral legislature. It seats 9 members elected by the Landtag of the 9 Laender, as well as the ex-officio presiding officer of the house, the Reichspraesident.
*** -- The Permanent Under-Secretary of State for Children, currently superintending all political affairs in the Department of Commerce, which is led by the Reichswirtschafeminister, who is legally absent from the Reich.
**** -- The Permanent Under-Secretary of State for Trade and Tariffs.

The Bullet Train shot off like....well like a bullet. They zipped on a rail over the city as one could see the streets and massive amount of tall, glass buildings below. Along with numerous other bullet trains on other rails. Within five minutes they had arrived outside the Senate Assembly Building which was more like a Colosseum with a dome from looking at it from outside. Inside it was much different as it revealed numerous offices and then there was the Senate Assembly Room itself, a giant chamber with numerous seats and panels.
The delegation was lead inside into a closed off Office. It was a It was a big room, but then again the Kaiser sometimes held Staff Meetings in here for the members of Government so it had to be. In the back were a set of floor to ceiling windows allowing a view to the area outside. Ahead of the windows was a finely made mahogany desk neatly made up with a velvet leather chair behind it. On this desk was a neat stack of stationary for when the Kaiser sent Letters personally from himself, a few Office Supplies, a Desk Phone, and a picture. There was a long meeting table in the center of the room with more than two dozen chairs seated at it. Three of these were occupied. One by a man wearing a dark suit like Kostler only he appeared to be at least ten years younger or so. Another by a man who looked about 32 years old, with a fresh and youthful face, yet one that exuded years of combat experience, blue eyes, and blond hair. The man wore a pristine white uniform jacket over a white undershirt and tie. On both sides of the collar was the Iron Cross. The Jacket had gold epaulets and a silver Aiguillette and gold cuff lings. He also had freshly pressed white uniform pants, black jackboots and gloves, and the traditional white military cap. The lapel was adorned by almost every medal in the history of the 2nd and 3rd Reich's, and several from the 4th (Decius). The third man was Kaiser Wilhelm who, being 31 years old, had a tall athletic build and short golden blond hair with cerulean blue eyes and somewhat tanned skin. He was wearing a beige SS Jacket over a white undershirt and a black tie, along with beige SS Uniform Pants. He had shiny black gloves and jackboots and the Jacket had a gold Aiguillette. The lapel of the uniform had the Iron Cross 1st Class, Order of the Black Eagle, Ordre Pour Le Merite, Order of the Star of the Grand Iron Cross, Order of the German Cross, Golden Knight's Cross, and the Grand Iron Cross. All of these had actually been earned by Wilhelm when he was Crown Prince.
The Kaiser and the other two appeared to be sharing a joke over a glass of wine. There was a stack of papers waiting, obviously for the meeting as the men waited for the meeting to start. Gautlier cleared his throat as he and Kostler walked forward and then both snapped to attention and extended their right arms forward. Together they said in unison. "Heil Kaiser Wilhelm!" The Kaiser smiled as he stood up and the men stood at ease. Gautlier stepped forward. "Your Excellency, the Weimar Delegation is here." Wilhelm smiled some more as he set the glass down.
"Please come in, let us get these talks underway before either of us gets antsy and pulls the trigger on something." Wilhelm chuckled a bit." A little joke to lighten the mood." He clicked his jackboots in military fashion and extended his hand for a shake. "Welcome to Decius, esteemed guests. It is a pleasure to be negotiating with another Germanic Nation for a change." He then gestured quickly at his colleagues. He pointed at the man in the suit. "This is Reichsminister Helmut Schliefling, of the Reichsministerium des Innern." Then he gestured at the man in the uniform. "This is Alexander von Kaizer, Oberreichsmarshal of the Armed Forces of the Fourth Reich." von Kaizer clicked his jackboots and took a sip of his wine.

As they were ushered into the audience chamber, they all reminded themselves silently of the monarchical traditions of courtesy. They nodded as they had changed in the dressing chamber, into the morning dress; they didn't want to appear too cozy before getting to know the host sovereign. On the very top, the Reichsaussenminister donned the diplomatic order across his upper body, a ribbon of blue silk with golden borders. If this had been the United Kingdom, of course, they would all be in bicorns and satin, but the diplomatic tradition of Western Europe originating at the British and French courts was certainly not favoured at a German court.

One by one, they filed into the office, and all its appointments came into clear view. The Reichsaussenminister stood at the middle, with the rest standing either alone or with their spouses according to their rank, with the Reichsaussenminister as ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary, and the Reichswirtschaftminister as minister extraordinary. As they come to formation in a line, spreading across the girth of the room, the men removed their hats and a very slight bow uniformly and the women curtsied. While no country actually requires a foreign embassy to bow to its sovereign, the embassies from the Weimar Republic customarily does.

The Reichsaussenminister noticed the Kaiser's grin, and he reciprocated this gesture as he recovered from the bow, stepping forth in diplomatic grace and extending his right palm for the shake. The Reichsaussenminister's own features were fairly similar and not jarring to the general complexion of the room, standing at 6' 0" himself and slightly on the generous side in weight.

"It is a pleasure to be here, your Majesty," he said, enunciating every syllable quite clearly so as to facilitate a clear understanding across the room, "in representation of my government and nation. We sincerely hope that our commonalities will convey ourselves and our wishes well to you, sir." He nodded again when he finished this short conversation with the Kaiser, and moved down the line to introduce himself to the others in the room, while the others presented themselves in like courtesy to firstly the Kaiser, then to the others. Luisa was slightly stumbled by the military uniforms in the room, but a nudge from her husband quickly resolved her nerves.

After everyone had introduced themselves to everyone else, the Reichsaussenminister produced from his suit pocket the letter of credence from the Reichspraesident, with the countersignatures of all the 9 members of the Reichsrat, representing their diplomatic authority to deal on behalf of the Reich, and their definitiveness when they speak, as literally everything they negotiate in good faith will be honoured by the federal government.

[New Decius]

The Bullet Train shot off like....well like a bullet. They zipped on a rail over the city as one could see the streets and massive amount of tall, glass buildings below. Along with numerous other bullet trains on other rails. Within five minutes they had arrived outside the Senate Assembly Building which was more like a Colosseum with a dome from looking at it from outside. Inside it was much different as it revealed numerous offices and then there was the Senate Assembly Room itself, a giant chamber with numerous seats and panels.
The delegation was lead inside into a closed off Office. It was a It was a big room, but then again the Kaiser sometimes held Staff Meetings in here for the members of Government so it had to be. In the back were a set of floor to ceiling windows allowing a view to the area outside. Ahead of the windows was a finely made mahogany desk neatly made up with a velvet leather chair behind it. On this desk was a neat stack of stationary for when the Kaiser sent Letters personally from himself, a few Office Supplies, a Desk Phone, and a picture. There was a long meeting table in the center of the room with more than two dozen chairs seated at it. Three of these were occupied. One by a man wearing a dark suit like Kostler only he appeared to be at least ten years younger or so. Another by a man who looked about 32 years old, with a fresh and youthful face, yet one that exuded years of combat experience, blue eyes, and blond hair. The man wore a pristine white uniform jacket over a white undershirt and tie. On both sides of the collar was the Iron Cross. The Jacket had gold epaulets and a silver Aiguillette and gold cuff lings. He also had freshly pressed white uniform pants, black jackboots and gloves, and the traditional white military cap. The lapel was adorned by almost every medal in the history of the 2nd and 3rd Reich's, and several from the 4th (Decius). The third man was Kaiser Wilhelm who, being 31 years old, had a tall athletic build and short golden blond hair with cerulean blue eyes and somewhat tanned skin. He was wearing a beige SS Jacket over a white undershirt and a black tie, along with beige SS Uniform Pants. He had shiny black gloves and jackboots and the Jacket had a gold Aiguillette. The lapel of the uniform had the Iron Cross 1st Class, Order of the Black Eagle, Ordre Pour Le Merite, Order of the Star of the Grand Iron Cross, Order of the German Cross, Golden Knight's Cross, and the Grand Iron Cross. All of these had actually been earned by Wilhelm when he was Crown Prince.
The Kaiser and the other two appeared to be sharing a joke over a glass of wine. There was a stack of papers waiting, obviously for the meeting as the men waited for the meeting to start. Gautlier cleared his throat as he and Kostler walked forward and then both snapped to attention and extended their right arms forward. Together they said in unison. "Heil Kaiser Wilhelm!" The Kaiser smiled as he stood up and the men stood at ease. Gautlier stepped forward. "Your Excellency, the Weimar Delegation is here." Wilhelm smiled some more as he set the glass down.
"Please come in, let us get these talks underway before either of us gets antsy and pulls the trigger on something." Wilhelm chuckled a bit." A little joke to lighten the mood." He clicked his jackboots in military fashion and extended his hand for a shake. "Welcome to Decius, esteemed guests. It is a pleasure to be negotiating with another Germanic Nation for a change." He then gestured quickly at his colleagues. He pointed at the man in the suit. "This is Reichsminister Helmut Schliefling, of the Reichsministerium des Innern." Then he gestured at the man in the uniform. "This is Alexander von Kaizer, Oberreichsmarshal of the Armed Forces of the Fourth Reich." von Kaizer clicked his jackboots and took a sip of his wine.

As they were ushered into the audience chamber, they all reminded themselves silently of the monarchical traditions of courtesy. They nodded as they had changed in the dressing chamber, into the morning dress; they didn't want to appear too cozy before getting to know the host sovereign. On the very top, the Reichsaussenminister donned the diplomatic order across his upper body, a ribbon of blue silk with golden borders. If this had been the United Kingdom, of course, they would all be in bicorns and satin, but the diplomatic tradition of Western Europe originating at the British and French courts was certainly not favoured at a German court.

One by one, they filed into the office, and all its appointments came into clear view. The Reichsaussenminister stood at the middle, with the rest standing either alone or with their spouses according to their rank, with the Reichsaussenminister as ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary, and the Reichswirtschaftminister as minister extraordinary. As they come to formation in a line, spreading across the girth of the room, the men removed their hats and a very slight bow uniformly and the women curtsied. While no country actually requires a foreign embassy to bow to its sovereign, the embassies from the Weimar Republic customarily does.

The Reichsaussenminister noticed the Kaiser's grin, and he reciprocated this gesture as he recovered from the bow, stepping forth in diplomatic grace and extending his right palm for the shake. The Reichsaussenminister's own features were fairly similar and not jarring to the general complexion of the room, standing at 6' 0" himself and slightly on the generous side in weight.

"It is a pleasure to be here, your Majesty," he said, enunciating every syllable quite clearly so as to facilitate a clear understanding across the room, "in representation of my government and nation. We sincerely hope that our commonalities will convey ourselves and our wishes well to you, sir." He nodded again when he finished this short conversation with the Kaiser, and moved down the line to introduce himself to the others in the room, while the others presented themselves in like courtesy to firstly the Kaiser, then to the others. Luisa was slightly stumbled by the military uniforms in the room, but a nudge from her husband quickly resolved her nerves.

After everyone had introduced themselves to everyone else, the Reichsaussenminister produced from his suit pocket the letter of credence from the Reichspraesident, with the countersignatures of all the 9 members of the Reichsrat, representing their diplomatic authority to deal on behalf of the Reich, and their definitiveness when they speak, as literally everything they negotiate in good faith will be honoured by the federal government.

Kaiser Wilhelm did not allow the smile to leave his face as he greeted each person in turn and then walked back over to the table. "Before we start, may I offer any of you refreshments." He said gesturing at the bottle of 1958 Imperial on the table and a number of glasses. The Kaiser was a generally friendly man, unless you threatened his family or people, then the nukes started flying. At that moment Kostler started coughing and held a hand to his chest. The Kaiser turned and shouted at two members of the High Imperial Guard. "Guards! Nehmen Sie Mr. Köstler weg zu Atem zu kommen. Danke." The two men nodded and walked over to Kostler and helped him out of the room.
Wilhelm turned to explain to the delegation. "Apologies. Kostler was formerly in military service. Twenty years ago, he was riddled with shrapnel from a shell. They got most of the shards out but there is still some in his lungs. The doctors gave him two years to live, and yet he's lived twenty years." Then he got down to the diplomatic business. "Nun, lassen Sie uns zur Sache kommen." He walked back over to the table and displayed a document from the pile. "Let us discuss the problems. You may open first."

[Weimar Germany]

As they were ushered into the audience chamber, they all reminded themselves silently of the monarchical traditions of courtesy. They nodded as they had changed in the dressing chamber, into the morning dress; they didn't want to appear too cozy before getting to know the host sovereign. On the very top, the Reichsaussenminister donned the diplomatic order across his upper body, a ribbon of blue silk with golden borders. If this had been the United Kingdom, of course, they would all be in bicorns and satin, but the diplomatic tradition of Western Europe originating at the British and French courts was certainly not favoured at a German court.

One by one, they filed into the office, and all its appointments came into clear view. The Reichsaussenminister stood at the middle, with the rest standing either alone or with their spouses according to their rank, with the Reichsaussenminister as ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary, and the Reichswirtschaftminister as minister extraordinary. As they come to formation in a line, spreading across the girth of the room, the men removed their hats and a very slight bow uniformly and the women curtsied. While no country actually requires a foreign embassy to bow to its sovereign, the embassies from the Weimar Republic customarily does.

The Reichsaussenminister noticed the Kaiser's grin, and he reciprocated this gesture as he recovered from the bow, stepping forth in diplomatic grace and extending his right palm for the shake. The Reichsaussenminister's own features were fairly similar and not jarring to the general complexion of the room, standing at 6' 0" himself and slightly on the generous side in weight.

"It is a pleasure to be here, your Majesty," he said, enunciating every syllable quite clearly so as to facilitate a clear understanding across the room, "in representation of my government and nation. We sincerely hope that our commonalities will convey ourselves and our wishes well to you, sir." He nodded again when he finished this short conversation with the Kaiser, and moved down the line to introduce himself to the others in the room, while the others presented themselves in like courtesy to firstly the Kaiser, then to the others. Luisa was slightly stumbled by the military uniforms in the room, but a nudge from her husband quickly resolved her nerves.

After everyone had introduced themselves to everyone else, the Reichsaussenminister produced from his suit pocket the letter of credence from the Reichspraesident, with the countersignatures of all the 9 members of the Reichsrat, representing their diplomatic authority to deal on behalf of the Reich, and their definitiveness when they speak, as literally everything they negotiate in good faith will be honoured by the federal government.

Kaiser Wilhelm did not allow the smile to leave his face as he greeted each person in turn and then walked back over to the table. "Before we start, may I offer any of you refreshments." He said gesturing at the bottle of 1958 Imperial on the table and a number of glasses. The Kaiser was a generally friendly man, unless you threatened his family or people, then the nukes started flying. At that moment Kostler started coughing and held a hand to his chest. The Kaiser turned and shouted at two members of the High Imperial Guard. "Guards! Nehmen Sie Mr. Köstler weg zu Atem zu kommen. Danke." The two men nodded and walked over to Kostler and helped him out of the room.
Wilhelm turned to explain to the delegation. "Apologies. Kostler was formerly in military service. Twenty years ago, he was riddled with shrapnel from a shell. They got most of the shards out but there is still some in his lungs. The doctors gave him two years to live, and yet he's lived twenty years." Then he got down to the diplomatic business. "Nun, lassen Sie uns zur Sache kommen." He walked back over to the table and displayed a document from the pile. "Let us discuss the problems. You may open first."

Weistha took the drink, and took a slight sip out of the vintage, merely to be polite, wishing that it would not impair his interlocutory faculty. The wine was quite a vintage, as he though, being smooth and gentle yet flavourful.

An agreement has already been reached between the members of the delegation that they question about the persecuted groups in New Decius is irrelevant and not to be spoken of unless asked about.

"Well," Weistha began, "we send our best wishes to Mr Kostler, who was a most excellent chaperone for us, but beyond that, we shall not waste any of your Majesty's valuable time. As your Majesty already know, in response to a recent policy that your Majesty's government has lately adopted, the Reichsrat proceeded to make a resolution hastily, and many other prominent political figures, including public ministers at the cabinet, have followed suit in condemning your policy. It is our wish that your Majesty take nothing of this into account on a personal and governmental level, as far as our diplomatic relations are concerned. Frankly speaking, everything that has been said and done have been conducted with domestic political motives, not foreign ones. Is not this so, my dear Reichswirtschaftminister?"

The conversation taking a serious turn, the appointed respondent started speaking slowly and politely.

"Your Majesty," the Reichswirtschaftminister continued, "undoubtedly your intelligence agencies have already received word that I personally countersigned the Reichsrat's condemnation that was passed just about two weeks ago in light of the policies of your Majesty's government, and I indeed have, independently, also issued my own memoranda against this policy. I will certify that the vast majority of all cabinet ministers have done likewise for two purposes: they wish to show their concordance with the Reichsrat, the most powerful council in federal politics, and to court the vote by maintaining a public presence in international affairs. As far as I can represent them, and under the instructions from my government, they hold no grudge against your Majesty. Is not this so, Staatssekretär?"

"Your Majesty," the Staatssekretär continued, "this is quite so. Our political masters stand for liberty and democracy, and so do I, but we also understand that national sovereignty must come first in diplomatic affairs, so your Majesty should endeavour to take nothing against us, as the personal opinions of ministers do not represent state policy, even at the federal level."

"Your Majesty," Weistha concluded his first statement, "that the continental peace of Europe be maintained, we ask that your government take no notice of personal political moves in my nation, for they are not in any wise likely to concern the future relationship between your Majesty and our nation."

[New Decius]

The Kaiser nodded thoughtfully as he walked over to the window. "I understand Gentlemen. That includes understanding your discomfort over our policy towards these persecuted groups. I myself find discomfort at this policy." Von Kaizer rose fast as lightning with a look of pure shock on his face.
"Mein Fuhrer! These are undesirables we are talk-" Wilhelm held up a hand to silence him and the Head of the Armed Forces sat back down. Wilhelm then continued speaking. "I do not like the persecution of these people any more than you do. However, the will of the people can command even me." Wilhelm turned around and walked back over to the table. "However the will of the people can be changed. I wish for your new policy towards Decius to end and for the policy towards these groups in Decius to end. I would like to negotiate terms which will accomplish these goals."

[Weimar Germany]

The Kaiser nodded thoughtfully as he walked over to the window. "I understand Gentlemen. That includes understanding your discomfort over our policy towards these persecuted groups. I myself find discomfort at this policy." Von Kaizer rose fast as lightning with a look of pure shock on his face.
"Mein Fuhrer! These are undesirables we are talk-" Wilhelm held up a hand to silence him and the Head of the Armed Forces sat back down. Wilhelm then continued speaking. "I do not like the persecution of these people any more than you do. However, the will of the people can command even me." Wilhelm turned around and walked back over to the table. "However the will of the people can be changed. I wish for your new policy towards Decius to end and for the policy towards these groups in Decius to end. I would like to negotiate terms which will accomplish these goals."

"Your Majesty," the Reichsaussenminister said gently, sensing some cosentmient, "to state that those declarations are policies would be, in my view, an overstatement. They are symbolic gestures, a matter of course, aimed at making it known to our public that our government intends not to pursue the same policies, and to the rest of the international community. Within reason, we intend to take no measures against your Majesty; however, your Majesty must also realize that we cannot be seen standing by, saying nothing, even though we plan to do nothing, not even to impose any embargoes on your goods, or restrictions against your subjects."

"That is quite true," the Staatssekretär agreed, "and the Austwätiges Amt intends to do everything to keep the peace as it currently is. That being said," he turned another shade as he faced the Kaiser, "your Majesty must forgive us if further condemnations are made, in the event your Majesty's government continues in pursuing or redoubling these policies; as a matter of international decency, our nation will also be accepting as refugees any people expelled from your Majesty's realm."

"Yes," the Reichswirtschaftminister said in concord, "that will be everything we shall be doing. Onto the subject of ending your policies, seeing as actually as don't have a policy regarding this issue, besides declarations and condemnations, we wish to propose to your Majesty, on the basis of our nation's intolerance to unjustified hatred and persecution of course, that the international community be permitted to intercede gradually, to which your Majesty may consent. In our opinion, this will permit your Majesty to be protected from any hostile opinion within your Majesty's nation should any arise, and your Majesty will not be perceived as retracting an announced policy. Likewise, the public can remain as proud as ever when their expelled neighbours are restored to their livelihoods in your Majesty's realm, with not a single mark of their money being spent on their re-instatement, but being covered and compensated through charities over the world, which will be ecstatic to aid such a change."

[New Decius]

At this moment the desk phone rang and one of the Guards picked it up. "Ja?" The Guard held a hand over the receiver and turned to the group. "It is for you Herr Oberreichsmarshal." Von Kaizer took the phone and then a minute later turned to the Kaiser. "Your Excellency it is the First Division. Shall I tell them to prepare for their operation?" Wilhelm shook his head and Von Kaizer started talking some more.
Kaiser Wilhelm turned to Weistha. "Understand Mr. Weistha that my people would not take very kindly to my giving in to requests by a foreign power. Requests of any nature at that. So perhaps we could negotiate something to prevent outroar. A trade agreement perhaps. A Student Program even?"

[Weimar Germany]

At this moment the desk phone rang and one of the Guards picked it up. "Ja?" The Guard held a hand over the receiver and turned to the group. "It is for you Herr Oberreichsmarshal." Von Kaizer took the phone and then a minute later turned to the Kaiser. "Your Excellency it is the First Division. Shall I tell them to prepare for their operation?" Wilhelm shook his head and Von Kaizer started talking some more.
Kaiser Wilhelm turned to Weistha. "Understand Mr. Weistha that my people would not take very kindly to my giving in to requests by a foreign power. Requests of any nature at that. So perhaps we could negotiate something to prevent outroar. A trade agreement perhaps. A Student Program even?"

A slight frown manifested on the men's faces, while the women departed for the lounge to socialize with the other women at the Kaiser's court, as the officer picked up the phone. Doubts as to the content of the call was quite stormy in each's heart, but they did not break the diplomatic silence to inquire about a nation's secrets. In diplomacy, it really isn't a virtue to be curious.

"Your Majesty," the Reichsaussenminister said, honestly and gravely, "while not being my place to influence the government of your Majesty's realm, we sought to urge, perhaps with undue enthusiasm, a postposition of the implementation of the policy that is the subject of our meeting, but we do see now that your Majesty is quite devoted to the general will, and as a democratic nation, the Reich will fully respect and not infringe the sovereignty of New Decius and her Kaiser. On a personal level, as far as the delegation is concerned, we strive to present to your Majesty what is, in our humble opinion, the best for your Majesty personally, so we beseech your forgiveness if we have slighted your subjects in the process. Since this matter is essentially settled without nothing so much as to begin with but only a misunderstanding, we feel that we can shift our attention to peripheral topics, including the trade agreements and student exchange programmes. To the Reichswirtschaftminister I will defer, since this is within his portfolio and not mine."

"Your Majesty," the appointed respondent said respectfully, "in our journey to this realm, we have taken the liberty and unilaterally developed and drafted a few agreements of social and economic interaction between our two nations that we feel plausible under the present circumstances; they remain, of course, at the disposal of your Majesty and open to reasonable emendations. I shall give a basic outline of the general purpose and object of each programme.

"Firstly, it is public knowledge that your Majesty's government imposes a great tariff on many goods imported, for the stated purpose of protecting domestic industry. We, however, think this exceedingly unfortunate as the natural provisions that the Creator has bestowed upon our two nations are similar and congruous, and such tariffs continue to impair the co-operative development of industry our nation to say the least. In respect whereof, it is the intention of my government to convey to your Majesty etc. our most sincere offer to reduce the tariffs currently imposed upon your nation's exports into my nation, on the simply condition that your Majesty will effect a similar reduction in scale and breadth upon our nation's exports. We should feel fit to inform your Majesty that this action, when practised betwixt our two nations, will not adversely affect your nation's domestic industry for indeed our exports in general are not economic substitutes with your nation's principal comsumptory goods.

"Secondly, it being necessary for our nations, we are under an imperious direction from the Reichsrat that we reach the agreement with your Majesty that there is to be no voluntary conflict with military force; to this end, the Reich will affirm to its commitments to the Treaty of Versailles of 1919, and assure your Majesty that there are no illicit arms being aggregated against your Majesty's realm and subjects. Reciprocal to this our commitment, it is the wish of my government that your Majesty will cause a public proclamation of peace to be issued to all government departments and embassies. If your Majesty should prefer to make a verbal commitment today, a telegram will be dispatched to the Reichsrat to make a similar declaration from our government.

"Thirdly, the development spiritual and intellectual of our young children being wholly admissible and desirable in our nation, we also propose to your Majesty and government that it may please your Majesty to issue out visas, safe conducts, and passports under your Majesty's seals of state to our sons and daughters who may pray unto your Majesty to be educated in New Decius, her standards of education being renowned in the world. This is to be ascertained and developed by a second delegation to examine the proposals in more detail, if your Majesty may be pleased to reach a preliminary agreement with us today. The Reichsrat has a pending bill for granting visas to your Majesty's subjects on arrival for a term of 45 days, extendable.

"We hope these terms will satisfy your Majesty of our sincerity to the peace and prosperity of both our nations, and further demonstrate the candour of the Reich's government in serving the good of the international community."

[New Decius]

The Kaiser nodded and looked very thoughtful. "Gentlemen I can whole heartedly say that I agree to such terms but I shall need several hours to talk things over with the various Ministry Head's before signing on anything." In all honesty it was the SS and SA he wanted to win over first. It was common knowledge that both were full of many paranoid persons.
"If I can be allowed this time, you shall be taken to a nearby hotel while you wait. It can allow you a chance to rest from your flight."

[Weimar Germany]

The Kaiser nodded and looked very thoughtful. "Gentlemen I can whole heartedly say that I agree to such terms but I shall need several hours to talk things over with the various Ministry Head's before signing on anything." In all honesty it was the SS and SA he wanted to win over first. It was common knowledge that both were full of many paranoid persons.
"If I can be allowed this time, you shall be taken to a nearby hotel while you wait. It can allow you a chance to rest from your flight."

The delegation duly agreed to this proposition as they were all quite tired. They stood from the chairs, bowed to the Kaiser as they exited his presence, and back-pedalled from the door.

As they were ferried to the hotel, they congratulated each other on their achievements.

[New Decius]

The Kaiser nodded and looked very thoughtful. "Gentlemen I can whole heartedly say that I agree to such terms but I shall need several hours to talk things over with the various Ministry Head's before signing on anything." In all honesty it was the SS and SA he wanted to win over first. It was common knowledge that both were full of many paranoid persons.
"If I can be allowed this time, you shall be taken to a nearby hotel while you wait. It can allow you a chance to rest from your flight."

The delegation duly agreed to this proposition as they were all quite tired. They stood from the chairs, bowed to the Kaiser as they exited his presence, and back-pedalled from the door.

As they were ferried to the hotel, they congratulated each other on their achievements.

After they left, Kaiser Wilhelm began thinking the offer over carefully. The Reich was already involved in a rather massive conflict and currently it was going very well. He turned to Von Kaizer. "Herr Oberreichsmarshal, can we afford another war from a military standpoint at this time?" Von Kaizer slid up his sleeve revealing a rather high tech looking watch which he pressed a button on and a holographic screen came up displaying military statistics. The Head of the Armed Forces observed as he paced in front of the Kaiser's desk.
"From the way the War in New Emphillon is going, the other Coalition Troops could handle the Red's for a while. We could bring the 3rd, 6th, 12th, 8th, and 2nd SS Divisions back from the front along with the Wehrmacht 16th Division. The 5th, 9th, and 3rd Fleet Divisions could also be brought back alongside the 15th Air Wing. That would be bringing back more than 500,000 Troops. Its hardly a dent in our standing personnel numbers as it is." He then looked up from the statistics at Kaiser Wilhelm. "Mein Fuhrer, from these statistics we could have Bombers in the air over Weimar Germany within three hours from our Air Base on Kourannis Island. We can setup a Submarine Screen in six hours flat. All in all we can easily afford another conflict from a military standpoint." Wilhelm nodded and then turned to Reichsminister Helmut Schliefling. "Herr Schliefling, can we afford such a thing from a financial and economic standpoint?" Schliefling did not need statistics since he knew it by heart.
Schliefling stood up and placed a hand on the back of his chair. "Your Excellency, our financial situation is quite good, since even before the war we were quite prepared for one. Though a second one is inadvisable, as we cannot keep our industry so focused on Arms Manufacturing for so long. I vote against it." Wilhelm nodded and then he thought for several moments.
"I will accept the terms they laid out. Get Herr Peters on the line and tell him to spin up some story of how their list of demands was at one point outrageous but after a long and stout defense by us we forced them to these terms. Can't let the public see us as giving in." Wilhelm said and the two nodded. Reichsminister Josef Peters was Head of the Propaganda Ministry. Schliefling would draw up an official document on the subject. The delegation would be called back in about an hour or so, so they could rest.