Sixth International Freedom Coalition Summit (CLOSED/IC)

[New Carloso]

INTERNATIONAL FREEDOM COALITION
Sixth Summit of the International Freedom Coalition (IFC) New Carlingford, Carloso 2015
#IFCNewCarlingford2015

---

Conference room


Palace of the Parliament, Island of New Carlingford, New Carlingford, Carloso

Carl Tobin, Supreme Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Carloso

• New Carlingford International Aiport
• New Carlingford-New Belfast International Airport
• Port of New Carlingford (New Kilindini Harbour)

• Relationships with other alliances (i.e SACTO & the United Left)
• The goals & purpose of the International Freedom Coalition
• The joint SACTO-IFC intervention in Thuasinisdún
• Any relevant matters brought up throughout the summit

International Freedom Coalition Sign-Ups/OCC | International Freedom Coalition Council | IIWiki

Palace of the Parliament, New Carlingford, Carloso

---

A black, armoured Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W222) with dark tinted windows rolled to a standstill outside the steps leading up to the main entrance to the colossal "Palace of the Parliament" building at the heart of the metropolis of New Carlingford. The chauffeur stepped out of the driver's side of the car, moving to open up the right-side passenger door. Out stepped Carl Tobin, the Supreme Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Carloso, sporting a pair of sunglasses. It was an unusually hot day for the end of August in New Carlingford; indeed, it had been an unusually hot summer overall in Carloso. The last time he had checked the temperature on the car's radio, it recorded 29°C. It felt like it too. He turned around when he reached the top of the steps and down upon the grand plaza in front of him, completely void of people. At its end, a group of marines and CA-89 Onager infantry mobility vehicles from the 7th Marine Regiment stood guard at the gateway leading into the plaza. A FV90S was hiding in the foliage, its gun pointing skyward. Such security measures were extremely rare in Carloso, though the recent tango with Ardoki in Thuasinisdún meant this was necessary. Not to mention, as it was, the risk of a terrorist attack by the Islamist group Al-Qaria was extremely high. With nobody but himself yet turning up, Tobin turned around to walk with his security attachment into the Palace of Parliament, catching a glimpse of a squad of marines with a MANPAD stuffed into an elevator travelling up to the top floor.

It would soon begin.

[Brytene]

Palace of the Parliament, New Carlingford, Carloso

Hans Elfestab was getting old, and he could feel it in his bones. At 68, the maple-farmer-turned-politician was getting a little too worn to be travelling abroad and making waves, but Carloso was a warm, sunny nation full of friendly people, and a stop at a BaconBarn Carloso had filled his belly before he made his way to the Palace.

Appearance-wise, he was a gnarled old specimen. Big strong hands, a nose with broken veins, a slightly stooped back and a scruffy grey beard marked him out as the former farmer he was, but his eyes were alert for a man of his years, his quiet manner unnerving and reassuring at once. He had only a single guard with him, seeing as Carloso were a trusted ally and a powerful nation. Stepping out of the town car which had ferried him from the NC/NB International Airport to the palace, he noted with approval the scattered marines and hidden armour which hinted at the rigorous security one would expect from a superpower such as Carloso.

He made his way slowly inside, his steps short and laboured, Sergeant Ling acting more as a carer than a soldier as she assisted him up the steps. He caught up with the Supreme Chancellor just inside the building, following him to the conference room.

"Chancellor Tobin, nice to see you again. Gotta say, when I heard it was your turn to host, I wasn't about to complain. Weather here does my old bones some good. How have you been?"

Sergeant Ling remained silent as Elfestab spluttered through his genial greetings to one of the most powerful men in Atlas. That the Brytisc delegate was a little rural, at least on the surface, was something his Sergeant had already gotten used to - whether the other IFC noteworthies found it refreshing or irritating, she had no idea.

[Novo Wagondia]

Palace of the Parliament, New Carlingford, New Carloso

Flanked by his brightest aides and armed with a great desire to promote liberty and peace worldwide, Emperor Edward I of Wagondia ascended the wide steps at the head of the grand plaza, embracing the familiar warmth of New Carlingford, so similar to his own country. Given the elevated state of security, the emperor was protected only by his usual contingent of plainclothes guards, outfitted with the same crisp suits and green-silver lapel pins as the rest of the delegation. As he entered the cooler confines of the Palace, delighted to see allied faces and flags in his midst, a clerk from the Wagain embassy assisted them in finding the conference room, which was empty save a few delegates milling about and checking their seat assignments. Taking a seat near the respected Chancellor Tobin, Edward ran through his notes for the final time, and was briefed on the most recent Ardokian developments by his senior staff. It seemed a lasting peace was becoming increasingly unrealistic as the situation escalated, but Wagondia would still stand by diplomacy as long as it was ethically sound to do so.

[New Carloso]

Palace of the Parliament, New Carlingford, Carloso

---

Chancellor Tobin took the hand of Hans Elfestab and shook it warmly. "I am doing well, thank you. I must welcome you to New Carlingford, I hope you enjoyed the scenery on the way in. As you can imagine, we have had to step-up security to a very high level in recent days so hope it didn't shock you to see APCs and IFVs rolling through the streets and armed soldiers on every corner. These sort of things tend to attract alot of attention. I can assure you though that not a single man with an evil intention will make it alive across one of the millennial bridges." He then moved to shake the hand of Sergeant Ling, the delegate's aide. "Welcome, welcome. Take whatever seats have been assigned to you, I think you are somewhere in the middle." Just as he showed the two into the conference room, the delegation from Wagondia walked. "Ah, Emperor Edward. Good to see you could make it." he said, shaking his hand firmly. "Your seat is directly beside mine, make yourself comfortable. I do hope you enjoyed your ride from the airport."

[Flardania]

Palace of the Parliament, New Carlingford, New Carloso

---

A motorcade of black, armored A7-S7s with dark tinted windows and the white lotus flag of Kirishima on both sides of the frontend came to a stop the titanic and european Palace of the Parliament building in New Carlingford. A young woman stepped out the passenger seat dressed in military attire. She had raven colored hair and eyes that showed experience. To those who have interacted with Kirishima before, they would immediately recognize her as Capt. Mikasa Ackerman from Shadow Valkyrie (Think U.S Seals). If she was here that would mean one thing, the Dirigeant of Kirishima Arata Kasuga himself would be attending. Kasuga has always insisted that Ackerman be his primary guard and the two have a successful relationship as priority and guard. Ackerman did not only provide security but also played an advisory role as she could look past him and figure out his concerns. Mikasa opened the rear door and like the mere presence of Ackerman already foretold, the young recently wed Arata Kasuga stepped out.

"Tch"

"Is everything alright Kasuga-sama?" Mikasa asked in response to the sound Arata made.

"Yes but..." Arata begun

"But let me guess your thinking that this building is too big, right?" Mikasa guessed.

"Tadashī" Arata said simply with a smile before frowning a little. "I hope we get things done this time around." Arata added as Mikasa nodded in agreement and the two made their way to the conference room. Once inside Arata with Mikasa in tow headed towards Tobin to greet him.

[Libraria and Ausitoria]

Palace of the Parliament, New Carlingford, New Carloso

It was, of course, a sure sign of Ausitorian annoyance with the IFC that this time their delegate came in Ausitoria's most dramatic, extravagent and decadent style yet: a jewel-encrusted tinted-window staff car that sparkled like dew on a lawn in the morning, multi-coloured turban exiting from the door first with diamond-tipped elephant-tusks jutting out from the sides in random directions with all the ostentatious of a magician, dark peaked cloak of the tropical necromancer trailing for metres behind and wings that looked suspiciously like Dinosaur or Dragon rising around and behind him like a malevolent shadow, and, to set the whole thing off, an expression of supreme and arrogant indifference, matched by a stalking, vulture-like gait of a predator. You could, for an instant, have been forgiven for supposing that Ausitorians were perhaps not entirely human, or that you had accidentally slipped down a wormhole to a different planet, or that someone had hired the palace to shoot a costume drama.

It was, in fact, rather obvious that the Ausitorians were expecting to be noticed for a change, and were intent upon making an entrance of unimagined irresponsibility and power. If people thought that Ausitoria was decadent, let 'em, if people thought that Ausitoria was crazy, let 'em, if people thought that Ausitoria was simply annoyed, let 'em. As long as people thought about Ausitoria, the Ausitorians were happy; for Ausitoria was intent upon being glorious, and although glory is usually fleeting, obscurity is forever.

There was no special security guard for Alexias Stella - for who would dare to attack the Ausitorian State embodied? (And for that matter who would be able to ignore his get-up for long enough, and get over the nagging feeling that he was in a storybook, or stop giggling)? All that an Ausitorian on official business needed for his defence was the arrogance of the Ausitorian state to back them, to nuclear war or beyond; for nobody attacks a madman with a nuclear trigger, even when he has arrived in a get-up costing millions that perhaps ought to have been spent on schools or hospitals. Make that especially when he has arrived in a get-up costing millions. Anyway the get-up would be sold on e-gulf for charity after the Summit was over.

Like a conquering madman, Alexias glided into the plaza, seeming to expand in the homely heat, out of sight of all the cameras which had undoubtedly been following him around. It was, of course, a good thing that the Palace was so colossal, for here his feathers, horns, and wings gave him a chance to fill it. Unfortunately few were there to witness the show, although no doubt those monitoring the security cameras were either (a) hurriedly calling up nearby zoos to find out whether any exotic animals had escaped, (b) tapping anxiously on their screens to remove what for all intents and purposes looked like a computer virus intent upon filling all their cameras with CGI from Jurassic park, or (c) falling over themselves laughing. Alexias hoped that they were torn between all three.

If anybody dared to stop him to ask, he had a lapis lazuli lapel-pin, a letter from the Ausitorian government requiring that its representative be given every assistance, and the defence that no, he didn't need any weapons, and the excuse that he was wearing national dress. (That was practically the sole advantage of having so many egregiously different nations in the Commonwealth).

And so, with a sultry smile on his face, Alexias collected himself and the swirling shadows around him and made his way to the conference room, entering like an insolent battlecruiser. He stopped at the entrance under the arch for a few seconds, glaring at the table as though it was his sworn enemy and he was about to smash it like an arrogant little beetle with a hammer under his cloak.

But he did not. Instead he pretended to spot Chancellor Tobin out of the corner of his eye, changing his character with a flash and a broad grin that made him immediately look infinitely more likeable and belied the theatrical training he had been given. Ausitorian civil servants were nothing if not thorough.

For you see, an annoyed Ausitorian is very dangerous, but it should be regarded as a good sign when they have the confidence to take some of their anger out on fashion orthodoxy. Who wants to be normal all the time? As the white rabbit of legend said, first be ridiculous, and then be sensible, and then go back to being ridiculous; for it can be very ridiculous to be sensible and very sensible to be ridiculous, which is how diversity leads to tolerance and innovation and progress. Quite how the white rabbit came to be so very wise is not recorded, although the question was explored in The Importance of Trivia, a Serious Comedy for Trivial People. There's some Ausitorian trivia for you. And you never know, one of these days Ausitoria may be considered normal, and you may do well to remember the white rabbit and his far-sighted views on the subject of multiculturalism.

But anyway, Alexias was not thinking of white rabbits, even if the whole room might have been expecting him to pull one out of his turban. Instead he was smiling like a daisy on a lawn at the Chancellor, acting as though it was perfectly normal to dress outrageously. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance at last," he said, and he meant it.

[New Carloso]

Palace of the Parliament, New Carlingford, Carloso

---

Tobin was impressed by the sleekness of the Audi bearing the flags of Flardania that stopped at the entrance. He was even more impressed by the attire worn by the delegation which were, as usual, superbly well dressed. He gave them the customary greeting, "Ah, Arata, Captain Ackerman, it is very good to see you could attend the summit. Please, go inside. You are seated beside the delegate from Brytene." and then proceeding to follow them in.

And then, it happened.

A dazzling, jewel-encrusted staff car rolled down the plaza leading up to the Palace of the Parliament, Chancellor Tobin's initial reactions were one of disbelief. Who was actually foolish enough to skip and hop through a metropolis of 73 million people, dance across a suspension bridge and then present themselves before the legislature of the federal republic? How weren't they robbed; a scenario where a truck would of rammed into them and the occupants proceeding to pick off all the jewels would have been a likely situation? More starkingly, how did they get past security? The orders to the Marine Corps were pretty specific; don't allow anyone without a permit in. Nevertheless, the car rolled on, coming to a complete stop before the steps leading up to the entrance. Tobin was almost convinced calling in security would be the best option, though he decided against it.

He truly did not expect to see what he saw next; a fan doning extravagant clothing, featuring a turban with, what seemed to be, encrusted jewels and rhino horns or elephant tusks poking out in various places. Indeed, this man seemed utterly unphased, almost ignorant of his obvious peculiarity. Then, those wings came out, followed by a multi-metre long cloak. Was this guy actually for real? He was coming to one of the most crucial meetings of the alliance dressed like a drag queen, utterly unacceptable of course, yet Tobin felt powerless to comment or do anything to change it.

Then, the man began his approach. Even by the time he had reached the top of the stairs, the entire cloak had failed to move up along with him, still trailing several metres behind. The Chancellor struggled to suppress a giggle, replacing it with a trembling smile. He prepared to exchange hands with the odd individual before they went into the conference hall together.

"A pleasure to make your acquaintance at last," it said. Well, one thing was confirmed; it was indeed a man. Carl peeked glanced behind the wings to see if any flags were flying from the bejewelled staff car. Sure enough, there was; the Ausitorian flag out of all of them. He could only guess this was their representative to the International Freedom Coalition, Alexias Stella; no sane head-of-government such as Prime Minister Perques could ever conceive turning up like this.

"And the same to you Mr... Stella, if I am indeed correct? I do hope you enjoyed the ride through our capital city. Please, take your seat inside. You are right next to the Wagondian delegate." he allowed the Ausitorian walk on ahead of him, cracking a smile to a nearby marine who was struggling to keep face.

In the conference room, Tobin slipped past the fabulous representative, now strutting towards his seat like a model on a catwalk. He took his seat beside Emperor Edward, both looking at each other with confused eyes and then diverting their gaze towards the empty seat at the head of the table with the words "Nathan Hayworth - Organized States, PM" engraved in a gray placard.

Not a moment too soon, Eben Davies and General Moran sailed in late from a meeting on the situation in Thuasinisdún. They both took their seats; Davies opposite Carl and Moran further away. He noticed a package pull of documents in Moran's possession, propably relating to the Office of National Intelligence operations in Ballintlea and the success of Operation First Strike, which had seen Carlossian ballistic missile submarines deliberately sever all submarine cable links between Ardoki and Thuasinisdún.

[Libraria and Ausitoria]

"Thank you," said Alexias, and turned to the Marine. "Glad you like fashion freedom."

And, satisfied that he had done more for the cause of multiculturalism in five minutes than most men do in their entire life, Alexias swept on to his seat beside the Wagondian Emperor, exactly where he would have gone anyway, for these summits always take ages to start, and Ausitoria regarded Wagondia as their closest ideological ally in the Coalition, and he had any number of things that they ought to discuss.

"Your Imperial Majesty, a pleasure to meet you," he smiled charmingly to Edward, his turban swaying dangerously - although it was not actually dangerous, since underneath it there was a balloon, which balanced out almost all of the weight. "How fares Wagondia?" he asked.

[West Aurelia]

Palace of the Parliament, New Carlingford, Carloso

---

Ryan Caldwell yawned as the Leopard II diplomatic jet came in for landing. The 39-year-old man was West Aurelia's delegate to the IFC, and he was arriving for the Sixth IFC Summit, hosted by Carloso in its capital city of New Carlingford. He looked out of the window and saw the sprawling metropolis that was New Carlingford down below. The jet touched down and taxied to a hangar in the back of the New Carlingford International Aiport. Caldwell stood up and stretched, grabbing his briefcase. A Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) agent took his hand luggage and followed him out of the plane. He walked down the steps onto the tarmac, where a black sedan was waiting for him. He got in along with the agent. Another agent, who was already in the driver's seat, started up the engine and headed off.

The car arrived in front of the Palace of the Parliament - the seat of the Carlossian Parliament, as its name indicated - where the summit was to be held. After it had been checked by security, it sped to the designated parking area for the delegates. The driver got out and opened the door for Caldwell. The diplomat stepped out and thanked the driver. Looking up at the grand building, he smiled and walked in. Several delegations had already arrived, but not, he noted, the one from the Organized States, which currently held the IFC premiership. Caldwell found his seat and waited for the summit to officially begin.

[Sece]

Palace of the Parliament, New Carlingford, New Carloso

A modest sports car, easily mistaken for a civilians car, save for the tinted windows pulled up outside the Parliament. Out stepped Gaelinder, Sece's delegate to the IFC. A lanky one, Gaelinder looked almost out of place in a suit, in Seve officials wore whatever they wanted and Gaelinder never wore a suit.
One of the newest members to the IFC, Gaelinder was eager to impress the other delegates and makes good impression

[Aigeantir]

Palace of the Parliament,
New Carlingford,
New Carloso

This is ridiculous, Prince Rowan Jodocus fumed inside, not so much at anyone else but himself. He let himself be talked into this... extravagant charade. He wasn't a big fan of it, taking after his father, and preferring the subtle edge of diplomacy over the excess of opulence to make an impression, but here he was, an excessively long motorcade of 15 cars, with an excessive number of staff, honour guard, and the rest, all to stand out. He understood the idea behind it all, as the most likely candidate for the throne, and acting High King, he was expected to show a level of station that demonstrated his role in his own people's hierarchy, but that was a role he saw in a different light. Where some saw power and prestige, he only saw a servant to the people, who should be beyond the need for such decadence. Glancing down, he readjusted his tie, that displayed the colours and sigil of House Jodocus, for the hundredth time. Though he often wore suits, this one was one of his more expensive and less comfortable ones, and though he had always gotten compliments on the pinstripe pattern, and more importantly, his wife had told him how much she loved it on him, it made Rowan feel uncomfortable both physically and mentally. It was a suit that demanded attention and recognition, but he preferred not to be the centre of attention, and not to be called out for the work he did.

No, this was too much. The only thing that brought him some comfort was Alis Jodocus, his wife, who sat across from him, wearing a long green dress, with a low cut front, that dipped down below her cleavage, with high side slits, that exposed her legs up to her hips. Over her dress, beneath her breasts, she wore a darker laced corset and a plaid belt that matched the dark corset, the green dress, and her long, wavy red hair. Yes, what she wore was by some people's standards a little revealing, but Alis had the figure to pull it off, and Rowan was a man, so he wasn't complaining. Her presence had helped to keep him much more at peace with the whole situation, and her occasional teasing and flirting meant he had to restrain himself from getting it on, right here, in the back of the limo. It was a good thing the kids weren't here.

They were supposed to come along as well, but instead Marcas, Moyra, and Isobel had to begin preparing for going back to school in the next few weeks, and Rowan thought better of trying to push them into attending, when they were taking some initiative in their education for the first time. Unfortunately, they did have another passenger with them, which meant that Rowan and Alis did have to restrain themselves for her sake. Lady Carroll Caomh sat beside Rowan, glancing out the window at the New Carlingford cityscape, seemingly deep in thought. Rowan often forgot how much he took her for granted, as they had been life-long friends, growing up together, and therefore Carroll was more like a little sister to Rowan than a high-profile guest and representative for their nation within the IFC. Compared to Alis, Carroll was the epitome of conservative in dress. She wore a blue, long sleeved suit jacket over a buttoned high-neck button up blouse. Her skirt matched her jacket, and came down at least to her knees, and the only thing that suggested she was trying to make herself look her age was the high boots she wore, and the loose, medium short hairstyle she had donned. Throughout the car ride, he had taken notice of Carroll's growing discomfort to the flirtatious teasing between Rowan and his wife. Now, she was trying her best to not even look at them, though she had to force herself to look at them whenever she was asked a question regarding the IFC Summit Agenda.

By the time they pulled up at the Palace of the Parliament, Carroll quickly hopped out of the car, clearly trying to escape the atmosphere of the car. Alis didn't seem to notice, but Rowan knew something was up, and not just because Carroll had felt uncomfortable. This was... something else. He'd have to talk with Carroll about it later. For now, he had to put on a show, and act the heir to the throne of Aigéantir, at least so his fellow IFC nation leaders knew who he was. As he stepped out of the car, he took Alis' hand and helped her to her feet. Her high heels made it difficult to get a proper footing, but she seemed to manage well. Glancing around, he noted Prime Minister Kirsteen Ahearn and Lady Siofra Sheertir were also disembarking from the limo behind them. Giving him a friendly wave, Lady Sheertir walked confidently towards the entrance with Kirsteen Ahearn looking annoyed with the young woman, trying to keep up yet leaving some distance between the two of them. Lady Sheertir was known for being eccentric, forward, outgoing, and sometimes lacking in social etiquette, but she meant well enough, and unfortunately she had found herself a friend in Carroll somehow, which meant she wanted to go where Carroll went. It was clear from the look on the Prime Minister's face that Lady Sheertir had not only been talking her ear off, but had already been too blunt and forthcoming about her views and opinions, and this was a rare time to see Prime Minsiter Ahearn actually look like she was loosing her cool. Rowan and Alis followed the rest of the group into the building, with Carroll already through the door up ahead, the Prime Minister speed walking to catch up with Carroll, Lady Sheertir on their heels, in heels, and Rowan and Alis moving slowly to catch up with the rest of them.

This should be an interesting evening!

[Inyourfaceistan]

New Carlingford, New Carloso

---

It had been a long ride indeed. Crossing oceans in various aircraft with only a few pitstops on a lone Inyurstan surface group or friendly airbase here and there. Only twice did the amazing scene of a tilt-rotor aircraft refueling from a much larger airliner break the monotany of the whizzing of the front-facing rotors as the V-22 push on into the horizon.
Finally the Inyurstan aircraft was cleared into New Carlossian airspace, and not before long it was in the city of New Carlingford; no doubt under constant aerial and ground-based radar watch from the locals. The V-22 slowed down and raised its rotors skyward as it came down for a landing on the lawn; but not without pumping out a crimson, green and gold colored smokescreen. From the smoke emerged a single man with slick black hair and a dense, post-5 O'clock shadow. Instead of any fancy suit or excessive tuxedo he was wearing a simple and practical black tee-shirt with a small olive colored backpack. Below his waist he had on plain green cargo pants and black combat boots. Other than a utility tool with a single blade mixed in he was completely unarmed; of course he was packing a recording device as well as a small camera disguised as a button on one of the straps of his pack.

As he walked into the conference room he lit up a long, well-crafted cigarette of marijuana, taking the time to inhale before releasing a thin but enduring drift of smoke before announcing himself. Marti D'Arracourt, Special Delegate on behalf of both La Republiqua D'Inyursta and the Santiago Anti-Communist Treaty Organization at your service. He then sat down in a back corner of the room and continued to savor his smoke. Marti removed a two-foot long reptile from his backpack, his pet Rolando, and fed the animal some dried anchovies while he waited for the summit to begin.

If anyone (I.e. Carloso) has any problems with my post let me know; I went ahead and passed into the conference to help speed things up. I can edit back if need be.

[Torrumbarry]

The Palace of the Parliament - New Carlingford, New Carloso
The Rt. Hon. Abigail Thorpe, Chancellor of the Exchequer

---

Anonymity.
Abigail Thorpe relished it. No prying photographers, impertinent journalists or foul-mouthed demonstrators. She had ambled into a bakery without anyone accompanying her, purchased a cinnamon bun and no one had given her a second look. But the day’s frolics were at an end, and her acid-washed, ripped jeans and white blouse were exchanged for more formal attire. Such business demands decorum, she mused to herself. A seasoned politician, she had been labelled ’the Owl’ by her fellow ministers for her innate ability to swoop down from her lofty vantage point on the Frontbench to tear her adversaries' arguments to shreds: Abigail Thorpe was a fearsome opponent during Parliament Question Time. Besides the Chancellor the vehicle hosted three other occupants; two were agents of the Military Intelligence Directorate, and the third an attache, a youthful man in his thirties with a mop of lank blonde hair that had been tamed with a comb and copious amounts of gel in order to give the impression of respectability. Nobody attracts more undue attention than burly men in bland, black suits and dark sunglasses with plastic earpieces and buzz cuts, so the two agents had donned casual clothing. Either way, it wasn’t of much consequence to the Chancellor; she had more pressing concerns, namely the looming summit. Stifling a yawn, with the warm wind buffeting her face as their Honda Civic streaked through the streets of New Carlingford, Thorpe skimmed through sheaf after sheaf of official documents that referenced everything from the potential topics of discussion to the dietary requirements of her fellow delegates as she mulled her thoughts over in her head and exchanged notes with the youthful attache.

As the sedan slowed to a halt, Thorpe stepped out and stretched her cramped muscles, noting the military presence at the Palace of the Parliament. Any terrorist with half the wits of a stone would have realized that the location where the envoys were converging would be an ideal one to launch an attack on; but as well as a show of force it was a subtle statement that indicated the Carlossians’ dedication to the talks, which Thorpe greatly appreciated. Approaching the Flardanian Dirigeant Kasuga, when she deemed him to be unoccupied, for she did not intend on giving the impression of being intrusive or overbearing, she beamed at him and offered a manicured hand.

“A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mr Kasuga. I was most pleased to hear that you intend on establishing an embassy in the Commonwealth."

Torrumbarry had not had much in the way of dialogue with the Flardanians, but the Chancellor was eager to see that change. Indeed, in such trialling times the Commonwealth required steadfast and staunch allies.

[Krjder]

Night flights were the bane of all travellers, even comfortable business class, with it's reclining chairs, delicious meals and excellent service could only do so much to stem the grim clamminess of waking up on a plane and then making one's way into a metropole. Such was the experience of Konrádyi Lyővagésel, HIM's Minister of Foreign Affairs, a physically imposing specimen, hailing from the mountainous Krakéhégyi Province in Krjder, home to the infamous and widely feared Sároźags. With a medium tan, jet black combed hair and narrow, almost oriental eyes, he was Sároźag through and through. Having served in the army, the 2nd Sároźag Artillery Regiment, he had seen his fair share of war, it's glory, it's gore and it's monotony. He grimaced as he almost clambered out of his escort car, two suited aides/security flanking him. They wore sharp black suits, with black ties and sporting shades and precise combed haircuts. Konrádyi wore a smart and slim navy three piece pin stripe suit, with a dark green tie and pocket kerchief, for he was also a Krïdan. And Krïdans know how to dress.

The trio waltzed up the stairs of the Palace of Parliament with good grace, ensuring that they appeared in optimum form, should the local and international press want to snap a few pictures or reels. New Carloso wasn't particularly entwined with the Krïdan Empire, they simply happened to coëxist within the same organisation, but relations were warm and cordial. Konrádyi began to eye up the arrivals, delegates from Brytene, Flardania, Ausitoria, Aurelia, Aigéantir, Inyursta, Torrumbarry and a growing host of others. Most of them were friendly or at least warm to his nation, save Inyursta. Perhaps relations with them, over time would improve, though, on most levels, the two cultures were too polarised to ever be friendly. Konrádyi peered at his watch and let slip a quiet Kűdyarság! before turning to one of his aides. The aide read Konrádyi's mind.
"Denke mij laße; wë sijcht nijcht fümpfstėn mijnüteren vrülijke?" He inquired a with a gentle smirk. Konrádyi grinned.
"Üw mijn geist lėseje. Jetszt, beschijft."

They entered into the Palace, not quite knowing what to expect.

[Shazbotdom]

OOC:
I made a few corrections. I typed this originally from my phone and just read it over and was like WTF did I type.

IC:
SCENE: Unloading Zone, Port of New Carlingford (New Kilindini Harbour), New Carloso
A super stretch limo was unloaded out of the rear of the Supreme Emperors personal yacht. With with it were two support utility vehicles with heavy armor. Six members of the SCS Marine Corps were within the SUV's to provide protection to the leader of the a Empire. As the convoy loaded up, the area the yacht was being secured by other members of the Marine Corps, armed with XR-01 Battle Rifles.

20 minutes later...
The convoy of the vehicles approached the building the conference was to take place in and pulled to a stop in front. The Marines, who were not in their armor, unloaded out of the SUV's first and did a visual sweep of the surrounding area to ensure that there were no visible threats to the safety of the Emperor. He then strolled out of the Limo with a personal guard, two members of the Diplomatic Corps, and the Shazbotdom Ambassador to the International Freedom Coalition.

The five men walked into the building as the Marines stood guard outside till the Emperor was in the building, where they then loaded back into the SUV's and went to the parking area. Larry acknowledged building staff as he entered and made his way to the elevator and got in. Taking it up to the floor where the meeting would take place. They got off the elevator and made their way to the room and entered it. Walking in, he noticed the other delegations and walked over to the refreshments station and grabbed a drink. This is going to be a long meeting, he thought to himself as he took the first sip.

[Inyourfaceistan]

Palace of the Parliament, New Carlingford

---

Marti looked up at the man talking to him.
"The name is Marti, Marti D'Arracourt. Nice to meet you, Yan." He said between two puffs of his blunt, addressing the Feng emperor by his first name. In Inyurstan culture it was basically blasphemy to address any royal by their title; calling someone "your majesty" was to them the equivalent of calling a nazi dictator "mein furher" or as false god as "your holiness". Inyurstans believed that all men were created equal, that the same mortal red blood flowed from their veins; and it was not only an affront to God but also nature when specific humans dared to deem themselves with titles of false superiority.
"And it's an Inyurstan Forest caiman, if you were wondering." Marti explained as he let the two-foot long Rolondo onto the floor with the hopes of getting a ruse out of the other delegates.

[The Predator Federation]

Tag for later edit

[Aigeantir]

OOC: I know we're doing this for serious reasons, and I also am not trying in anyway usurping control over this RP, but... let's get this party started! ... also just a note, I will always try to stay within the realm of PG as much as possible, but I do have a character that pushes those limits, so therefore I apologize in advance for any "suggestive themes"

Palace of the Parliament,
New Carlingford,
New Carloso

Carroll Caomh And Siofra Sheertir

Lady Carroll Caomh, strolled purposefully towards a refreshment table upon entering the Palace. Looking around, she wondered if she could find one of the staff to slip her something a little stronger than coffee or soft drinks. On one hand she wanted to act out, to actually feel her feelings, but propriety kept her from doing so. This was not the time or place to fall apart and make a scene. And why today of all days was she losing herself to emotion? Everyday she was a bottled up fountain of emotion, that somehow she managed to always keep in check, but today, something had set her off. It wasn't like this was the first uncomfortable car ride with Rowan. No, that's Prince Jodocus to you, she reminded herself. Perhaps it was a combination of a lot of things that was all recently on her mind. Her recent visit to the doctor over some issues female issues she had been having, her realization that she wasn't getting any younger, and the biological clock was ticking, combined with the flirty, intimate relationship between Rowan and Alis, and her own unresolved feelings all combined over the past 24 hours to create a potent emotional cocktail of anger, fear, sadness, loneliness and longing. This isn't me, I'm better than this! She glanced around the room, looking for someone, anyone, to strike up a conversation with, and perhaps get her own problems off her mind. Seeing Konrádyi Lyővagésel, she decided to head over and greet him, but only made it a few steps before she was blocked by Siofra Sheertir. Carroll sighed internally. This woman is always trouble.

Siofra had clearly seen Carroll's less than normal mood, which was strange, since she hadn't thought Siofra thought about much more than herself, but perhaps she had pegged the woman wrong. Of course, she wasted no point in getting straight to the point. She was direct, which was often the thing that got her in trouble with the nobility back home. "So, you want to talk about it?" Siofra asked in a way that sounded less caring and more demanding. Carroll stood there for a moment dumbfounded, not knowing what to say. Glancing behind Siofra, she saw Lyővagésel move across the room, and out of range for a quick escape from this woman.

"It's... it's nothing, I just... I'm just under a lot of pressure right now," Carroll replied, hoping the elusive response would be enough to keep Siofra from probing. It wasn't. Siofra Sheertir, though always dressing the opposite of acceptable for these events, her dress tonight was just as short and slinky as any of the others she wore, seemed in her element in these sort of settings, especially when she had someone whom she could coax into letting loose. Carroll didn't exactly want to be that person tonight, but at the same time a part of her did. Siofra called out to one of the staff to bring Carroll a drink, and though Carroll protested, she downed it all the same.

"So, is this about someone I know?" Siofra inquired. Not only was she quick but she was relentless too.

Carroll didn't answer, but her emotions and body language gave her away, as she glanced behind her to Rowan and Alis partway across the room, talking and laughing as they moved towards some of the other dignitaries. "Ahh, so the Ice Woman does have a heart after all! Let me guess, after the first time, you couldn't think of anyone else. I wouldn't blame you, he is a prince after all!" Siofra exclaimed, and Carroll gave her a look of anger and panic. "Unless of course you're looking at Alis, and I'm not going to judge you on that, as she's a very attractive woman," Siofra continued. Carroll just gave her a dirty look, and instead focused on her drink, hoping that Siofra would stop talking, but she didn't. "So how was our Highness for you? Was he "amazing", "excellent", "great"...."

Carroll cut Siofra off before she could continue. "He wasn't anything, okay?! He's... we didn't... it's not like that... now shut up before someone hears you!" Siofra smiled, a devious smile.

"Oh, I understand now! It's not that you too have been up to anything and more that you haven't! Is it unrequited love? Is he... gay. Well, I guess he isn't, since he does have a wife and kids, but you just never know these days..." Siofra was interrupted by Carroll.

"Shhhhh! No, it's nothing like that! Please just drop it! The last thing I want is for someone to ruin the perfectly good friendship Rowan and I have with each other. He's... always been like a brother to me," Carroll admitted.

"Oh, a brother huh? A brother that you have certain romantic feelings towards, perhaps?" Siofra replied. Carroll just about took a swing at Siofra there and then, but instead tried to reason with Siofra.

"Listen, if you want to help me, then help me take my mind off of Rowan's presence, and help me find a way to have a good time while I'm here. This is the first Summit that I've been to where I'm not here as the IFC Prime Minister, so it's going to be hard to find a way to come down to the state of being just a simple representative with the simple mission of being here to make connections and have a good time." Carroll stated.

By the look on Siofra's face, it was clear that she would prefer to push the issue about Rowan, but instead she allowed Carroll her wishes. "Okay, where do we start? You looked like you were gonna talk to that Kjder... Krder... that guy from that country, you know the one! The guy you were going to speak to before I stepped in your way." Carroll gave her a look that said she wasn't impressed, especially due to Siofra's reveal that she had actively attempted to corner her. "Okay, I'm sorry about that! Maybe you had the right idea all along, but face it, before I came along and started picking your brain, you had no alcohol." Siofra took Carroll by the arm, moving her towards Lyővagésel. "And now, with some more confidence, alcohol, and your best mate Siofra to guide you through the rest of the night, you're ready to conquer this Summit! Look out New Callinford, cause the Lady's of Aigéantir have arrived!" Siofra declared quite loudly.

"It's New Carlingford," Carroll corrected Siofra.

"Whatever," Siofra replied. The pair moved over to Lyővagésel, and to Carroll's surprise, Siofra let her speak first.

"Good day Mr. Lyővagésel, I just thought I would come by and express my happiness to you personally over the establishment of our embassy in your country. I hope we will soon get the opportunity to establish stronger ties with each other in the future," Carroll smiled, and waited for an off colour or inappropriate comment from Siofra, that didn't seem to surface to Carroll's stunned surprise.



Prime Minister Kirsteen Ahearn

Kirsteen was not one to stay sedentary for long. She preferred these kind of events, where she could move about and talk with others. She always enjoyed meeting people, and she hoped that, unlike one of the previous Summits, she did not find herself taking an express flight back home due to the threat of war or terrorist attack. This time she just wanted a nice, enjoyable, social, and productive evening. Glancing around the room, she saw Siofra engaging Carroll in some sort of interrogation. While she felt for Carroll, it was partly Carroll's fault that Siofra was here in the first place, and Kirsteen was not about to start pulling Siofra back in when she had just escaped her, just so Carroll could talk to the other dignitaries. Besides, at a Summit like this, it wasn't out of the ordinary for nation leaders to rub shoulders with each other, even with a representative present.

Grabbing a coffee, Kirsteen walked over to a man, she guessed, who was dressed in the most outrageous clothing imaginable. She approached him, feeling a little awkward, but still pushed herself to speak. "Ahh excuse me? I'm terribly sorry for not knowing, but who might you be?"



Rowan and Alis Jodocus

Rowan was still wondering about Carroll, as they walked into the Palace. It was well-decorated, and there were refreshments already set up for the dignitaries. While he was tempted to follow Carroll over to the table, and talk to her, Alis, who was still holding tightly to his arm, tugged on him and pointed towards the Shazbotdom Delegation. "That's Emperor Larry Williams, correct?" Alis asked.

Though he was thrown for a moment, Rowan replied, "yes, looks like he's got one heck of an entourage too."

"I'm not saying you should think this way, honey, but it would be a great idea for us to think about marriage alliances. Our niece is already engaged to the Crown Prince of Elesar, perhaps we should consider pushing our children to do the same," Alis pointed out.

Rowan frowned, "Yes, we did have the possibility of one between Marcas and one of the heirs of Taigawa, but that seemed to fall through for some reason.... I don't know, Alis, I kind of believe in giving the kids some free choice in who they choose. If my father had acted that way, I wouldn't have had the pleasure of marrying you!"

Alis gave him a sultry look, "I'm sure there's more to me than being pleasurable. But I know what you mean. You're sticking to the belief that marriage within the monarchy and even the nobility is something we should be able to do for love. For centuries it used to be a way of signing a truce between kingdoms until we finally broke away from it. But with the way things are going, can we really afford to trust our allies by their word alone? Would it not be more... advantageous to have them connected by a deeper bond?"

"It might, and it might not." Rowan replied, "I'm not saying that we want or even need to have a pure Aigéantiran monarch, but the more we marry from outside the nation, the more likely we lose our monarchy. We've already lost most of the original bloodline, and it could be argued that none of the current monarchs are connected in any way to the original monarchs, but that's the result of our history and the way in which we allow the most common of people to raise their standing in society to a point that they could, one day, rule the country. I suppose you're right, that we should be thinking about the future, but I don't know." He sighed, "I can't help but feel that pushing our kids into a loveless marriage would be a bad thing. At the very least, let them do what Meredith did, and meet the guy... or girl... before committing to it."

Alis smiled, leaned up, and gave Rowan a lengthy kiss. "You big softy!" She said with a purr, "Now let's get talking to someone about trade, or war, or whatever we need to talk about."

Rowan glanced over at Emperor Williams. "Well, your suggestion is a good enough place to start, let's go talk to Emperor Williams about..." Rowan trailed off, giving Alis a glance to fill in the sentence.

Alis thought for a moment. "Uhh, maybe something about Ardoki?"

Rowan smiled. "Yes! Let's go talk to Emperor Williams about Ardoki! A fine topic of conversation to be sure!" He joked in a effected upper class mannerism. Alis started giggling, and continued to hold onto his arm, as they approached the Emperor, but stopped laughing as they got closer. Alis and Rowan let go of each other, and Rowan gave a curt, crisp bow, as Alis gave a gentle curtsy. "Emperor Williams, it is an honour to see you here today." Alis retook Rowan's arm as he continued. "Tell me, what are your feelings on an intervention in Ardoki?"

[Libraria and Ausitoria]

Alexias Stella and Kirsteen Ahearn

"His Grace Alexias Stella, Ausitoria, at your service," said Alexias Stella, rising and bowing. "No doubt I am completely unrecognizeable in these clothes," he added, smiling, and then lowered his voice slightly. "It is, of course, a fashion statement about multiculturalism and tolerance, since Ausitoria is so desperately worried about the current ... militaristic, and perhaps anti-liberal trends; and it has been sadly informative to see the reactions of some of the others here. But it is a very great pleasure to meet you, Prime Minister," he added, warmly, gesturing to a nearby vacant seat.

[Unified Free Lands]

The Statetopian group was quite late, which was because the new AutoArabia sports car that the party was driving in had broken down for some reason. When the red and white sports car finally arrived at the building, Ming and the two other diplomats traveling with her ran out and headed to the building as fast as they could. "Not quite the entrance we wished for, huh?" said Ming, turning her sights to Zhang Kym, one of the other diplomats. None of them wore fancy clothes but instead they wore red sweatshirts with the five star design on the flag of Statetopia under the words "Property of Statetopia".

"Yeah, we could have done better," sighed Zhang as they looked for the right room. "But it could have been worse, we could have missed it completely."

"I think this is the right room," replied Ming, and the trio of diplomats walked in, hoping nobody would notice how late they were.

"Hey, we don't seem to be that late," said Zhang, relieved.

"They must have given us the wrong start time or something," said Ming, sounding possibly more relieved than Zhang did. "Well, we're finally here..."

[Aigeantir]

Palace of the Parliament,
New Carlingford,
New Carloso

Kirsteen Ahearn

Kirsteen Ahearn followed Alexias Stella over to the chairs, and carefully sat down. She had elected to wear a modest medium-length skirt, blouse and jacket, attempting to keep herself looking professional, but hoping the choice of a skirt would make her seem more feminine, and more approachable. Often people in her position could live a lonely life, as those around her either despised her for where she was, or were to afraid to speak to her as a normal human being, no matter how much she did the same. Her one saving grace was her supportive family. Her husband Sean, and their two kids, Bryan and Maggie, who had to put up with a lot considering Kirsteen's busy schedule coupled with long-distance state visits such as this.

Yes, her family could have come to something like this, and perhaps she should have encouraged them to do so, but Kirsteen, as a former professor, and a great advocate for education preferred to see her children do well in school, and that they were. If it wasn't broken, better not to fix it, as pulling them out of school could result in them losing focus. Sean was also very busy back home, working for the Ministry of the Environment on a new assessment of the environmental impact of damming some of Danu's rivers. It was a bad time for him to leave, and so Kirsteen didn't push him into coming.

Kirsteen carefully tugged on her skirt, and crossed her legs, as she continued speaking to Archduke Stella. Kirsteen had been given a briefing by Carroll about some of the IFC cast of characters, and while Carroll had warned Kirsteen that Alexias was opinionated, he did have the betterment of the IFC at heart. She'd warned Kirsteen about the current discussions, and roughly some of the main opinions as well, and no one was more clear about their views than Archduke Stella. Still, Kirsteen thought it best to treat the situation as one who has not been present, and not privy to what had transpired so far.

Carefully holding her coffee on her lap, Kirsteen replied, "Well, I was certainly surprised by your clothing, though I'm sure all of us have some... unusual traditions back home. I can think of a few myself, which would probably upset this gathering more than your clothing." She took a sip of coffee and continued to talk more hastily, a little worried she might have inferred any offence, "I hope that wasn't taken in any negative way." Kirsteen continued a little more calm, still concerned over the right placement of the right words, so she did not accidentally offend the Archduke. "While I understand the current Ausitorian concern of the direction of the IFC, there are still those of us who believe in the good we can do together as a group of allied nations. Perhaps we need to find a positive, and proactive way to show this resolve?" She asked carefully, more a rhetorical question than anything. She knew that the Archduke likely felt that efforts had to be made, but it was much better to show him that her nation was as much a supporter of his views on finding peaceful means and programmes to help the world as much as they were committed to peacekeeping efforts. The IFC regime may have changed, but that didn't mean that her nation was going to take a step back entirely from the efforts that had been made.

[Krjder]

Palace of the Parliament, New Carlingford, New Carloso
Konrádyi chuckled as he watched from afar, observing the relative unruliness of Siofra, much to Carroll's annoyance. Sensing their imminent arrival he prepared to receive them.
"And Good Day to yourself Madame. And your friend here is? Please, call me Konrádyi. I am equally pleased that you have set up an embassy in our nation, your ambassador is eagerly awaited at his new post. I think he will enjoy his new post. We, especially the Emperor are rather civilised to friendly ambassadors, which means plenty of garden and evening parties for ambassadors." He explained, gesticulating for them to move forward as he spoke.
"I hope your journey here was an enjoyable one, Madame?" He inquired, as they walked towards the conference room.

[Aigeantir]

Warning: Shenanigans ahead!

Palace of the Parliament,
New Carlingford,
New Carloso

Carroll and Siofra

Carroll followed beside Konrádyi, Siofra hanging just behind her, off her shoulder and in her peripheral. She never did feel comfortable with familiarity, but she forced herself to do so when people gave her leave to do so. "Oh, sorry, Konrádyi, this is Lady Siofra Sheertir of the Northlands province. She's... uhh... more of an acquaintance of mine than anything." Carroll tried to downplay any connection she had to Siofra. Behind her, Carroll noticed Siofra rolling her eyes. Before Carroll had a chance to continue Siofra moved up, and took Konrádyi by the arm. It would not have been so inappropriate had Siofra not began rubbing the inside of Konrádyi's arm above his elbow.

"I'm sorry Konrádyi, she's in a bit of a tiff tonight, so I'll let her say what she wants, but I'm her Bestie, her BFF, her partner in crime, and surprisingly I'm not her lover, though to look at her in her misery, you'd think that she was either not getting any or a man hater, but I'm happy to say that she's one hundred percent, positively into guys!" Siofra remarked much to Carroll's horror. Carroll was still in shock and turning a bright red, but Siofra continued. "I know that she'll kill me for being so forward, but what would make her time here much more enjoyable I think, would be having a good time with someone strong and caring such as yourself."

Carroll somehow managed to find a way to regain control of her embarrassment. Partly the rage she was feeling right now was enough to do it. Grabbing Siofra, she pulled her off of Konrádyi and pulled her over to the wall a few steps away, and just out of ear shot. With Siofra against the wall, Carroll looking her straight in the eyes, it was clear to Siofra that she had gone too far. "What the hell do you think your doing! Are you trying to get me removed from my position here?! You're here as a guest, so I shouldn't have to remind you to mind your manners! What the hell are you trying to pull anyways?!"

Siofra just smiled back, "There she is! There's the girl who was meant to take charge! Where has she been hiding all evening? I'm just here to give her a bit of a push out the door! Heaven knows you need it now that you're a bit of a nobody. A former leader of a defensive pact, who got lucky and through a long-term friendship with royalty, just managed to get a title. I hate to say it dear, but if you want to get far in the high stakes world of the upper class, you have to stand out; make them remember you."

"Oh, and I assume that you feel that all news is good news?! I'm not you, and I never will be!" Carroll threw back angrily.

"Please, I never said you needed to have my... reputation. I just figured if I could get the poor Ice Woman out of her cage, she might learn to dance a bit. I know these types of people better than you give me credit. They aren't just going to take such direct approaches outright. It wouldn't be 'proper' for them." Siofra explained.

Carroll chuckled, "I can't believe this! I'm taking advice on social etiquette from you of all people!"

Siofra smiled, "Well I never said I was a Lady.." she feigned a sudden thought. "Oh, right! ... I am a Lady in title. Funny how that works, huh? And you might not like to hear it, but I've been in this game much longer than you. I was born into it, in fact, so if you want to make an impression, you have to step out of your comfort zone!"

"But not by implying I need someone to sleep with me!" Carroll replied in annoyance.

Siofra sighed, "I suppose you're right. Why go to step 8 when you haven't made it to step 1 yet.... I'm sorry."

Carroll was going to protest but thought better of it. Siofra was apologizing for her behaviour, best leave it at that, and not give her any reason to go back on it. "I think you owe someone else an apology too." Carroll motioned to Konrádyi, nearby.

Siofra sighed, and Carroll stepped aside to let Siofra approach Konrádyi again, but once again she took his arm. "I'm sorry for the things I said just now, my intention was to drive my sheltered, quiet friend here out of her box, and I'm sorry if it caused you any embarrassment. Now let me get you a drink for your troubles." Siofra gave Konrádyi's arm a friendly squeeze, and gave her best syrupy sweet smile before she moved off to find something for Konrádyi, leaving Carroll alone with Konrádyi. She did it again! Even in an apology, she still managed to set the stage with an uncomfortable feeling. And now I have to clean up the mess! Carroll approached Konrádyi, looking a little sheepish.

"I'm sorry for Siofra's behaviour, she's .... different. I think she means well, but..." the look of horror returned to Carroll's face, as she added in panic, "Please just keep this whole thing quiet! I'm so, so sorry for her stupid antics, and terrible behaviour! I'm really, REALLY sorry! If there's anything I can do to make it up to you..." Carroll trailed off. On one hand that was a dangerous situation to get into. To owe someone something of their choosing, but at this point, she was desperate to take back the damage Siofra had done. She looked down as she was too worried to look Konrádyi in the eyes.

[Shazbotdom]

Rowan smiled. "Yes! Let's go talk to Emperor Williams about Ardoki! A fine topic of conversation to be sure!" He joked in a effected upper class mannerism. Alis started giggling, and continued to hold onto his arm, as they approached the Emperor, but stopped laughing as they got closer. Alis and Rowan let go of each other, and Rowan gave a curt, crisp bow, as Alis gave a gentle curtsy. "Emperor Williams, it is an honour to see you here today." Alis retook Rowan's arm as he continued. "Tell me, what are your feelings on an intervention in Ardoki?"

OOC:
Apologies for the late reply. RL calls, you know? Now, without further a due, onto the festivities.

IC:
SCENE: Palace of the Parliament, New Carlingford, New Carloso
"Ahh. It's nice to meet you to," he said, extending his hand for a handshake. After it was over, he continued on. "The Ardoki are a troubled people, honestly. They are too couped up in their own 'holier-than-thou' attitude that they don't understand what Good Government is. Honestly, I would be happy if there was a joint military exercise to eliminate the ruling party within Ardoki, but I am afraid that the people are too brainwashed by the government that they will do whatever it takes to keep their glorious ungodly government in power." He looked around then returned his gaze to them, "And by 'ungodly', I don't mean Atheist, I mean so completely inept that they would attempt to arrest diplomats at a peaceful meeting. What sort of snake does that?"

[Aigeantir]

Palace of the Parliament,
New Carlingford,
New Carloso

Rowan and Alis

Rowan glanced at Alis, giving her a "why did you get me onto this topic anyways?" sort of look. But he tried to make it not so apparent to Emperor Williams. As it was, he may be "Acting High King," but that didn't make him truly High King, and therefore not truly an equal representation of Emperor Williams in power or standing to begin with. Some level of respect should always be upheld to those who were slightly more than his equal, even if Rowan preferred to reject the charade and drama that went into the realm of the ruling classes. Rowan noticed Alis smile, as she excused herself, letting go of Rowan, to head for the nearest refreshment table.

Rowan clasped his hands behind his back, hoping it made him look a little more formal. "Yes, while I have to agree about your assessment of Ardoki, that's just the point. How do we encourage their own people to break from the lies they've been fed, to see a better, more just and fair way to live, and hopefully one in which we can see them as a potential ally and not a rogue state? At the moment my concern is less on the danger that Ardoki may be, and the danger other nations, such as Cardissina, actually are to our defensive alliance. Perhaps there's a way in which we can win the hearts and minds of Ardoki's people through acts of assistance rather than a prolonged campaign against an entirely radicalized nation. Of course, this is just my musings. I don't speak for everyone back home, but I'd prefer to see us as keepers of the peace more than dealers of justice in the world, as naive as that might sound." Rowan decided to switch tactics at this point, thanks to Alis purposefully putting him in the deep end when it came to the Ardoki question. She knew as much as Rowan did, that there was a strong reaction against Ardoki of late, but she was probably getting a good laugh out of this right now. "So, Emperor Williams, while I enjoy this conversation on Foreign Politics, I thought I'd use this opportunity to get to know you better. There's a significant number of calls back home for me to be crowned the next High King, but I feel that I would be doing a great disservice to my country and my allies if I do not take the chance to get to know my peers within the IFC membership. So, tell me about yourself, and why being present for an IFC Summit is important to you." Rowan asked politely.