Republic Day Celebratory Dinner (IC Thread)

by **Phing Phong** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 5:13 pm

To our Esteemed Guests,

We are greatly honoured that you chose to accept our invitation to the celebrations of our most important national festival and public holiday. It is good to know that our closest allies and diplomatic contacts value the ties of mutual friendship, prosperity and peace.

For 89 years, Phing Phong has stood free from foreign control and colonialism. Our history is marked by great social and economic changes that transformed an island dotted with fishing villages, monasteries and jungle into a single great metropolis home to countless millions of people. Development has brought great gifts to this country, but with them the inevitable challenges of environmental damage, social disaffection and the loss of morality. Maintaining our national parks system alone costs billions of Bahts a year. Like all countries, we have crime, overwhelmingly perpetrated by people due to circumstances beyond their control. 21 years ago today, during the dark years of dictatorship, the armed forces carried out a successful test of a nuclear bomb. Today, we pride ourselves on our recognition of human rights and the equality of all sapient beings. Recently independent Dae Gwo, founded by Phing Phong as a homeland for stateless refugees, whose representatives will be attending this dinner, is testament to our commitment to these goals.

Through this celebration of, and reflection upon, our history, we hope to showcase the best of what Phing Phong has to offer, without seeking to hide the less rosy aspects of the complex and dynamic country in which we live. Republic Day was never intended to be a whitewash, but a self-portrait as honest as it can reasonably be.

With that piece of national self-reflection over, onward to the celebrations!

A copy of the guest list, evening schedule and menu has been attached to this letter. Certain accommodations have been made for guests with extenuating circumstances due to the diverse range of religions and cultures that will be represented here.

Yours faithfully,

Council-shen Ngô Huynh
Head of State and Government of Phing Phong

Guests are arranged in the order in which we received their replies. The first three guests, in italics, are the representatives of Phing Phong and will be hosting the event. Royals and heads of state have been addressed with the appropriate honorifics, as well as those guests who requested their usage.

Council-shen Ngô Huynh, Senior of the Most Serene Order of the Keys and Head of State of Phing Phong
Trân Thanh Kiêm, Moderator of Yaowarat Sampheng
Phraya Nuealuan Chararampol, Foreign Affairs Minister

Ambassador Serena Southerlyn of Noordeinde, and her husband, Mr. Jimmy Southerlyn.
The Vice-President of Noordeinde, and his wife.
Lynda Woodruff, Honoured Delegate of Millyland, and her aide, Áyä Faen.
H.I.H. the Emperor of Syvorji, Honox I
Ambassador Kanoj Xia of Syvorji
Ambassador Brenda Stephenson of Benjamin Mark, and her husband, Mr. Luis Stephenson
Ambassador Anya Bergen of Woodstead, and her partner, Mr. Ross Lennox
Ambassador Taumyss Rozzwelle of Aleckandor, and his honoured guest, Daenyuhl Buwee
H.E. President General Jamin Chen of Namor
Ambassador James Nguyen of Namor
Tzo Chin, Honoured President of the Namorese Community in Phing Phong, and his wife, Stephanie Chin
Go Hyuk Young, Foreign Affairs Minister of Dae Gwo
Ambassador Park Min Tae of Dae Gwo
Ambassador Stan MacFarlane of Radiatia, and his wife, Alexa MacFarlane
Bryan Monterio, Honoured Delegate of the North American Republics, and his honoured guest, Odessa Stogsdill
Ambassador Fiasuil, Pack Ardri, of Sidh Ohn
Ambassador Chen Rong of Orienus, and his son, Chen Jin
Ambassador Sima Wei of the Union of Myanmar, and his daugher, Sima Li
Lieutenant-General Rudolf Lange of the Greater Aryan Race
Ambassador Alois von Stassen of the Greater Aryan Race
Ambassador Mark Ryan of Bleckonia, and his wife, Ethel Ryan
Syr Aled ap Llywellyn, Honoured Delegate of Avaerilon, and his wife, Sorcha haf Llywellyn
H.E. the Rt. Hon. Sir Elak Mohli, President of Elyomia, and his wife, Dame Vanessa Huruu-Mohli
Ambassador Mohammed Yogyakarr of Minroz, and his honoured guest, Ozgol Merrmesh
H.R.H. The Duke of Gascony
H.E. Sir Roberto Sabota, Ambassador of San Pellegrino Romana
Ambassador Dalton Wright of Falsea, and his wife, Katherine Wright
H.E. Ryan Mäkelä, Ambassador of Hippostania, and his wife, Amanda Mäkelä
Ambassador Ophelia Castagnola of Fransikania, and her husband, Trajan Castagnola
Ambassador Chu Hyun Lee-sun of the Koy People's Democratic Republic, and his wife, Chu Kwan Liu-sun
Ambassador Ted Buckle of the Teddy Bear Republic Empire, and his wife, Katherine Buckle
H.E. Eugene Lee y Ongpin, Ambassador of Central and Eastern Visayas, his wife, Allyn Syjuco e Ibarra, and their son, Leroy Lee y Syjuco
Katrina Walstein, Foreign Affairs Minister of Geilinor
Ambassador Boris Johansson of Geilinor
H.E. Maykop Nal'Chik, Vice President of Comanici
Apitity Archangel, honoured delegate of Comanici
Ambassador Filipe Gabriel Brunau de Nassau-Numus of Numuria, and his sister, Luiza Gabriela Brunau de Nassau-Numus
Onhi Lu'vard, Honoured Delegate of the Visairese Republic, and his wife, Rada Lu'vard

The OOC thread can be found here. The event is not being conducted in real time, due to obvious limitations, and commences after I put the next post up.

by **Phing Phong** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 6:00 pm

1800, 12 August 2012
Palace of the Republic

The setting tropical sun was slowly making its way towards the horizon, and a cool breeze gently blew through the trees lining Chakravartampriya Boulevard, the wide road leading from Democracy Square to the Palace itself. Formerly the residence of the Governor of Phing Phong during colonial times, the Palace was a magnificent building made of limestone, marble and various kinds of wood. Council-shen Thannarat I, the first leader of an independent Phing Phong, considered the building too grand to remain an official residence alone, and opened most of it up for public viewing and official functions. The Council-shen's residence occupies the upper floors of the Palace's southern wing, and is only ever visited by the first family, staff and guests of state. The stairs leading up to the main doors of the palace had been covered by a red carpet. Phraya Nuealuan Chararampol, the Foreign Affairs Minister, was waiting at the end of the carpet, ready to welcome the guests. Most were to be picked up by chauffeurs from the chanceries and penthouses where they were staying, though a few had elected to use alternate forms of transport.

The Minister prepared to greet her first guest as she noticed a black limousine make its way slowly down the boulevard. Her eyesight was not perfect, and she was unable to make out the small car flags affixed to the vehicle's front bonnet.

by **Namor** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 6:26 pm

2100 NAMO TIME
NAMO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

President Chen, leader of Namor, had departed Namo the night before. Tzo To, Minister of Foreign Affairs, had sent him to the International Airport. "Tell the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Phing Phong that I said hi to her, will you?" Tzo asked.

"Absolutely," Chen had said.

The Air Force Premium, the plane Namorese presidents always ride on, was the most magnificent plane in the country. It had a little cafe, five satellite TVs as well as a short-wave radio which Chen (who was fond of listening to short-wave) can listen to. There was also wi-fi on the plane, which prevented the President from getting bored.

Halfway through the trip, Chen had listened to the Voice of Namor via shortwave:

"Today, President General Jamin Chen has departed Namo for Phing Phong, ready to attend the city-state's celebratory dinner. He is going with Namorese ambassador James Nguyen as well as Tzo Chin and his wife, heads of the Namorese Community in Phing Phong. This meeting is expected to bring diplomatic ties between Namor and Phing Phong even closer.

"Chen will celebrate over 80 years of Phing Phong's statehood with Phing Phong's leaders, as well as representatives and leaders from other countries, notably Dae Gwo, the TBRE, and Hippostania..."

Chen fell asleep.

2000 hours
"Mr. President, we are now arriving at Phing Phong."

President General Jamin Chen woke up at the sound of his assistant, Jaron, who turns out to be his brother. "Oh," he said. "We're here?"

"Yes, we're at the Phing Phong Airport right now," Jaron said. "Come on! Do you want the Council-shen to think you're a sleeping bug?"

"I'm not a sleeping bug," the President protested, "And if you keep calling me that I will make you stay in Phing Phong."

"Whatever."

Chen arrived at the Phing Phong International Airport, where he met up with Tzo Chin and his wife, Madame Chin. They were the heads of the Namorese compatriots in Phing Phong.

"Ah, nice to meet you, Mr. Chin," the President said as he shook the Compatriot head's hand and his wife's hand. "Are the Namorese in Phing Phong doing well?"

"They are well under the care of us and Ngo Huynh," replied Tzo Chin.

"Very well," Chen said. "Where's Ambassador Nguyen?"

"At the Palace Hall. He is expecting you."

Chen and his comrades were escorted to the Palace of the Republic, where he saw a figure ahead of him. It was no one else but the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Phing Phong, Phraya Nuealuan Chararampol. Chen, accompanied by Chin and Madame Chin as well as Ambassador Nguyen, who was already there, stepped ahead.

"Hi there," Chen said as he reached out his hand towards the Minister, "I, President of Namor, is here. Phing Phong is really nice, isn't it?"

by **Namor** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 6:26 pm

by **Syvorji** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 6:46 pm

OOC: Not going to bother with the departure from Syvorji crap.

IC: As Emperor Honox's plane landed, amongst a flight of Syvorjin passengers which quite frankly, was economy class, he stepped off, and headed into the vehicle, which also had the ambassador inside it.

"Greetings," he said.

"Greetings, your Majesty," Xia said. "How are you this fine day?"

"I am perfectly fine, and yourself?"

"I am good, thanks for asking."

"You are welcome." He then said to the driver, "Driver, take us to the Republic Day Cele..." before he even finished the statement, it took off for the intended destination.

"Sir, the driver knows this nation quite well."

"I know, I just didn't want to be late."

"I see." Finally, after 30 minutes, the limousine had finally arrived at their destination, and promptly headed inside.

"Greetings," Kanoj Xia said, and extended his hand to the Phing Phongese representative. Honox I, gave a wai to the delegations.

by **The Greater Aryan Race** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 6:47 pm

GAR Government Plane
International Airspace
En-Route to Phing Phong

Ambassador Alois von Stassen glanced through his files once again before checking his watch. So far so good, they were right on schedule and would probably be able to reach Phing Phong in a matter of minutes. He was looking forward to celebrating Phin Phong's national day celebrations, especially with the upcoming banquet and feast after being summoned from Phing Phong to the GAR for consultations. Of more concern was his companion who had been assigned to accompany him. The Foreign Ministry simply sated that he was an officer from the Reich Ministry for State Security whose task was to assist him in the strengthening of diplomatic ties with Phing Phong. Whatever that was supposed to mean.

His companion was Lieutenant-General Rudolf Lange who was not just any rank-and-file officer but the Head of Ausland-SD, the Foreign Intelligence branch of the State Security Ministry. Lange's main task was to use the trip to glean more details about Phong Phong for the purpose of intelligence gathering. Of course no one on the delegation knew his actual position nor would his hosts know and he intended to keep it that way.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, we will be coming down to land at Phing Phong now. Please do fasten your seat belts and return your food trays to their original position." stated the Captain over the intercom. Soon, the aircraft touched down on the runway before coming to a halt. Soon, Ambassador von Stassen and General Lange exited the aircraft and proceeded to climb into the limousine that had been provided for them by the GAR's own embassy. Soon, the motorcade was headed towards the Palace of the Republic where the local reception committee was waiting for them.

The Palace of the Republic

After ten minutes, the motorcade soon came to a stop upon reaching it's destination. Both the Ambassador and the General exited their vehicle and walked towards the Phing Phong Foreign Affairs Minister who was waiting for them. They noticed that another group of foreign officials were already in front of them but nevertheless, they proceeded to greet the Minister.

"Madam Minister, on behalf of the Greater Aryan Race, allow me to extend my warmest greetings on this historic day for the city-state and it's inhabitants." said Ambassador von Stassen.

by **Phing Phong** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 7:11 pm

As the limousine drew closer, Chararampol was able to recognise the flags as indicating the vehicle belonged to the Namorese Embassy.

"We would like to think so, Mr. President," she replied, smiling broadly. "It is my pleasure to welcome you and your entourage to our diplomatic function, and I believe myself and Tzo Chin met at the official opening of Namor's embassy here. I hope your journey here was pleasant and without interruption. My assistant, Luang Yamashita Miharu, will escort you to the People's Hall of the Palace, where drinks are currently being served. The Council-shen is scheduled to arrive in the Hall in a short while."

A few minutes after the Namorese delegation had made their way into the Palace, another two delegations arrived in quick succession. As the chauffeur opened the door to the first car, Chararampol noticed that the Emperor of Syvorji was accompanying his Ambassador in the same vehicle. Phing Phong's large Syvorjin community meant that the Emperor's face was widely known, though it was the Minister's first meeting with him. He gave the Minister a wai, and she then returned the gesture, making sure to bow deeper than her imperial counterpart, before shaking the Ambassador's proffered hand.

"Welcome, your Majesty, and it is a pleasure to see you again, Ambassador," she began. "I trust that your respective journeys to the Palace were in order? My assistant informs me that the Council-shen is currently with the Namorese delegation in the People's Hall. Luang Miharu, if you wouldn't mind, could you show our guests to the Palace?"

Immediately behind them stood the Ambassador of the Greater Aryan Race and his guest, the Lieutenant-General. Chararampol momentarily wondered why he had not brought a wife or similar, but gave it no more thought.

"Thank you, Ambassador. May I welcome you to our nation's celebrations. I believe you may have previously met my deputy, Kawazoe Shinichi, who briefly assumed my domestic post while I was away on state business. And General, am I right in thinking this is your first visit to Phing Phong? My assistant here will show you to the Palace, where the Council-shen and his wife are awaiting the arrival of his guests."

Gesturing to her assistant, the Minister shook hands with the Ambassador and his companion.

As the contingent walked away, she adjusted her red headscarf, which had been loosened in the course of her activities. Despite decades of social reform, women's formal dress remained a complex array of ornate fabrics and garments, complete with a headscarf, the sort more usually worn in Islamic countries, to protect its wearer from the sun. This had led to officials being mistaken for Muslims in the past, which had been initially advantageous at some times and embarrassing at others.

by **Namor** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 7:37 pm

OOC: My last post for the night as well

"Thank You very much," President Chen replied as Luang Yamashita Miharu led the Namorese delegation into the People's Hall. As they were led into the hall, Chen, Nguyen and the Chins began a conversation.

"What's the news from the Mother Country?" Chin asked. "I've been in Phing Phong for quite a while."

"Nothing much. The Namor Games have started though," Chen replied. "It's been going on for days. Have you been watching it?"

"Ah, the Namor Games!" Madame Chin piped in. "The Namorese Community in Phing Phong sent three athletes to compete."

"I want to give you a brief introduction on Namo-Phing Phong relations," said Ambassador Nguyen. "Relations have been very friendly. Very. I've been trying to contact the leaders of Dae Gwo, urging them to start a diplomatic program under the watchful eyes of the Phing Phongese. But I have yet to receive a reply."

"Dae Gwo?" Chen asked. "You mean the Korean country that separated from Phing Phong a month ago?"

"Yes, General Secretary," Nguyen replied. "But until that time comes, let's just focus on Phing Phong. Anyway, Dae Gwo's foreign affairs are managed by Mrs. Chararampol."

"Indeed."

"Also, have I mentioned this to you before?" Madame Chin closed in on the President. "After the Celebratory Dinner, would you mind if my husband and I take you to a week-long visit to Phing Phong?"

"Absolutely!" Chen replied. "I have longed to see Mount Chiang. Plus, nothing is better than visiting the whole world and its great rivers and mountains."

"Haven't you?" Tzo Chin smiled broadly. "Well, I'll arrange with the Phing Phongese government later."

"We are here," said Luang Yamashita Miharu. She opened the door that led to the People's Hall. The Namorese delegation watched on in awe.

by **North American Republics** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 7:41 pm

1830, August 12 2012

People's Commissar Bryan and his girlfriend arrived at Phing Phong International Airport and Bryan could not have been happier. The airliner taken, Omega Airlines, was notorious for their poor service and lumpy seats, but no other airliner was available on such short notice.
"I'm so happy that the trip didn't last that long," Bryan's girlfriend Odessa said. "I felt like I was going to literally die on that plane."

"Oh, don't be so dramatic, you knew what we were getting into with that airliner," Bryan responded.

"I know that! Couldn't you have spent a little more money for a good seat at least?" Bryan realized that Odessa was not going to let him get away with flying coach, with a mother and crying baby in the seat next to them and a young child who's fascination with kicking verged on the extreme sitting behind them. "I mean, you saw the -"

Odessa saw the parents of the young child and decided that the most important thing to do was to scold them for allowing their child to kick the seat in front of him as much as he pleased. Bryan exclaimed, "As if the most important thing we're facing right now is one kid who we'll never see again! We need to find out where the limo is!"

After a few minutes of bickering about important events, Bryan and Odessa walked out of the terminal and looked for a sign with their name on it as that is what the limousine agency told them to look for. Odessa spotted the small man standing outside a black limo holding a small cardboard rectangle with the word NAR scribbled on it. A look of disapproval flashed across Odessa's face at the sight of the rather unprofessional sign, but it was quickly suppressed and the couple walked towards the man.

The man sported a large grin as the couple walked closer and once they were within a few feet of him, he started talking. "I'm so happy to meet you, sir. I take it that you're from North American Republics?" Once confirmation was given, the man continued. "I have relatives that live there. They say that it's a great place, but they always miss home. If you don't mind, who is that beautiful lady at your side?"

Bryan chuckled and responded, "That beautiful lady is my girlfriend," leaning in close to the man he added, barely loud enough for Odessa to hear, "and she can be quite a bit feisty at times."

"What was that, Bryan? Feisty? I'll show you feisty, just you wait," Odessa responded. The man, starting to feel uncomfortable, finished putting the bags in the trunk and opened the doors to the limo. The couple got in and the ride to the Palace of the Republic began.

1850, August 12, 2012

Upon arriving at the Palace of the Republic, Odessa just had to ask, "So this is what it looks like? I'm impressed. Why don't you have a place like this, Bryan? Hmm?"

"Not now, Odessa, please. You know that that's something that I don't control," responded Bryan.

The man driving the limo stopped in front of the palace doors and got out. He opened the doors of the limo and Bryan and Odessa exited after paying the man a large tip. "That should be enough for the yelling from the back you put up with. Sorry."

The man mumbled a quick "Thank you", waited for them enter through the palace doors, then rushed to the drivers seat to move the car away from the palace doors. The last thing he wanted to see more of was of the couple he just drove.

Once inside, Bryan could see a figure at the foot of the staircase and made his way towards it with Odessa at his side. It was Minister of Foreign Affairs Phraya Nuealuan Chararampol and Bryan extended his open hand towards her and said, "Your country is absolutely beautiful, madam. Thank you for allowing us to partake in this celebration of Phing Phong's freedom from colonial oppression."

by **Radiatia** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 8:15 pm

Stan and Alexa MacFarlane arrived at the Palace of the Republic shortly after sundown.

Stan brushed the creases out of his tuxedo, while his wife was dressed in a pink dress, one which gave her the demeanour of a 1960s housewife.

Stan was acutely aware that he was carrying a heavy diplomatic burden - Phing Phong was considered an ally of the Radiatian Federation, and the government hugely valued their relationship.

Indeed, Soden Larssen - former Opposition Leader and now Prime Minister - had sounded like he was going to cry as he informed Stan that he was unable to make it to the celebratory dinner.

"Phing Phong is an amazing country," He had said on the phone. "Dammit, if I hadn't all this work to do..."

Likewise, the President (who didn't speak a word of English anyway) and the Foreign Affairs Minister were both abroad on other trips, thus it had landed on Stan MacFarlane to figuratively carry the black and gold banner and represent the Radiatian Federation.

Stan of course liked Phing Phong - nay, he loved it. The weather was amazing, the city was clean and the standard of living was one that left Radiatia in the dust. He and Alexa had spent many a steamy night together, enjoying the delights of the tropical city state after dark.

Phing Phong was increasingly becoming one of the major tourist destinations for Radiatians - with more and more Radiatians emigrating full time to live here.

Stan was again acutely aware of this fact, as in recent years the embassy had been inundated with hordes of people asking the sort of idiotic questions that only a Radiatian would be dumb enough to ask.

"Why don't they have Greasy Joe's here?"
- "Meat eating is illegal here. It's against their culture."

"How much is it to buy a wife here?"
- "You buy a wife here, you have to earn one."

Yes indeed, the more time that Stan MacFarlane spent in Phing Phong, the less he found himself missing Radiatia...

by **Woodstead** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 8:38 pm

Touch down on the tarmac; Ross Lennox approaches the port window:
"Beautiful, right, Anya?"
The jet slows down with the couple departing their seats. Miss Bergen and Mr Lennox disembark confronted by a moderate army of curious lenses. A small sedan pulls up between to whisk them away to the banquet.
"Wow, Annie. Best nation you could have picked", commented Ross, an architect.
Anya maintained her withdrawn sipmlence upon reflection of the significance; not just to Woodstead, nor just Phing Phong, but the unity of all nations involved.

by **Minroz** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 9:59 pm

The Minrozian delegates had arrived at the airport and they’ve done been escorted to their respective black limousine. The ambassador is Prince Mohammed Yogyakarr and his friend Crown Prince Ozgol of Minroz; they’ve been selected to represent their beloved nation. Mohammed hails from a powerful Muslim Yin Dynasty which grew into the Qing Dynasty consisting of Six Dynastic ruling houses whom sends their representative to become one of the new Emperor of Minroz. Their purpose in Phing Phong is to extend their diplomatic relations between the Empire and the City-state. Not only that, they’ll interact with nations who took interests in them. However Ozgol is not pleased with being here.

“Dammit, remind me why I’m here again? Mo,” he grunts

“Well, His Majesty your father says you need to improve your etiquettes towards foreigners, so he says,” Mohammed answers in cheerful manner

“Hmph, I’m a military man, not a bloody diplomat,” Ozgol rebuke “you know I can’t stand of being formal towards stupid bastards,”

“I know,” the Muslim prince sighs “Still, at least you need to practice it. We cannot risks political fallouts ever since Jiang Yingshen comes to power. Besides…” looking at the scenery of Phing Phong “This place is beautiful, reminds me of Dainam* and the motherland, you could see the weather was amazing, the city was clean and their standard of living was nearly reach ours. Given enough time, Phing Phong will be on par with our economy,”

“I agree,” Ozgol reply “Normally I don’t do vacations, but I will come here to spend my vacation week if time permits. Only God wills it to happen,” he smirks coyly

“Inshallah, brother,” Mohammed utters solemnly, before looking outside to see they have arrived at their destination. “There’s our cue,”

“Right,” the black-haired prince agrees as the Minrozians get off their ride, walking on the red tarmac, ready to meet Phraya Nuealuan Chararampol, the Foreign Affairs Minister if the other foreign delegates finished their turns.

*Iclamian equivalent of Vietnam

by **The Greater Aryan Race** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 10:59 pm

The Palace of the Republic

After shaking the hands of the Minister, Ambassador von Stassen and General Lange continued their walk towards the People's Hall inside the Palace with von Stassen pausing to look and admire at the architecture of the Palace.

"Very impressive I must say. The people of Phing Phong certainly know how to build."

"It's not impossible for them to do so, given that Phing Phong is a relatively prosperous state indeed."

"Indeed, I look forward to visiting the Council-shen."

by **Elyomia** » Fri Aug 10, 2012 11:58 pm

Sir Elak Mohli was having a power nap on board the Presidential Jet. Prior to his departure from Pysskl, he knew that it would be a very long night, so he decided to get in a few z's before the dinner. He didn't want to be collapsing of exhaustion in a soup. He, and his wife Vanessa, were looking forward to this state dinner for a while - they had heard much about Phing Phong, and were keen to get to know not only the people of Phing Phong but also the leaders.

'Mr. President, we will be landing in Phing Phong shortly,' the captain said loudly over the intercom, interrupting Mohli in his nap.

'Fuck!' he said as he struggled to get his eyes open.
'Calm down, love,' Vanessa said as she was texting on her iPhone, 'we'll be right. Just do up your bowtie and we'll jump right into the car once we're on the ground. You can catch up on a few minutes sleep then.'

As the plane glided in and taxied to the awaiting motorcade, the two made some last minute adjustments to their clothes and hair. Both were very conscious of their appearance, especially when it came to foreign events. They always wanted to make a good impression, being the 'face' of a country and looking like a slob wouldn't get them anywhere.

Quickly exiting the plane and descending the steps, members of the Secret Protection Service in their iconic black suits and black sunglasses ushered the pair into an awaiting Cadillac Presidential Vehicle, with the Elyomian flag flying slightly in the light breeze.

'Let's get moving,' the President said as he put on the sash of theOrder of Elyomia, part of the official state event Presidential gear. Mohli hated it, it was uncomfortable and weirdly placed, and in some embarrassing moments, he would spill food on it, so he would have to walk around and have photographs of him with a giant blob on the sash.

Contrary to his wife's advise, Mohli continued to make phone calls and answer emails, without stopping. He was able to take in a quick glimpse of the Palace in which the state dinner would happen, and was taken aback by its beauty and sheer size.

'Shit, that's a massive palace,' he exclaimed as he put away his BlackBerry in preparation to meet the guests. 'This should be an exciting night. I'll probably lose myself in there.' He chuckled, remembering the times he would get lost in his godfathers house, which happened to be the Royal Palace.

The car pulled up in front of a set of stairs leading into the Palace, covered in a red carpet. Getting out of the car, the President led his wife towards a well-dressed lady, who his security attachment told him was the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

'Ma'am, it is a privilege to be here,' he said as he outstretched his hand to the woman. 'I am Sir Elak Mohli, President of Elyomia. Please, call me Elak. I hate titles.' He gestured to his wife, who bowed her head slightly. 'This is my wife Vanessa. We're very pleased to be here.'

by **Avaerilon** » Sat Aug 11, 2012 2:38 am

As Syr Aled stepped-down from the plane, he took in a deep breath of the rich, perfumed air that was so abundant in Phing Phong. For Aled, it reminded him of lazy lunches by the side of a lagoon, or the song-like language gently chattering across delicate gardens. More than anything else, it reminded him of when he was recovering from the wound he sustained after being shot in the leg by a revolutionary nearly ten years ago. To most people, those memories would not be fond, but to Aled, they were; for the first time in a long while, he had felt at peace.

He took the hand of Sorcha, his wife, as she descended the aircraft (the usual sort of small private jet the government sent dignitaries in) and began to walk with her to the terminal building.
"It's sort of a bit like home, in a way, isn't it, dear?" Said Sorcha, looking up at the stars in the sky.
"What do you mean?"
"Well, I can only think of one other time I've been at a fairly important airport and been able to see the stars perfectly, without an urban glare."
"Yes, I see what you mean. It's not like we're that far away from Avaerilon, either, although you wouldn't really know it."

They walked-into the little terminal building, where they were saluted by a pair of smartly-dressed guards. These two young men promptly retrieved the baggage form the convener belt, and gave them to Aled, who had insisted on taking local transport to the palace area. This had caused a bit of a stir at home. A few newspapers ran headlines suggesting the government was trying to snub Syr Aled, a respected diplomat with a serious leg injury, by not requesting a limousine to take him and his wife to the dinner. But some people simply didn't realise that Aled wanted to be back in Phing-Phong proper, and that meant taking the local transport.

Still, nobody would hear of Syr Aled being without a formal greeting at the airport, and so Phing-Phong had sent a young attaché to meet the couple. He walked up to them with a spring in his step, wearing a crisp, navy suit. Smiling, he introduced himself.

"Good evening, Syr Aled, Mrs. haf Llewellyn. I am Pham Ang Vu, and it is truly a pleasure to welcome you both to our nation."

He streched out his hand to Aled, who shook it warmly, and then bowed to Sorcha, who curtseyed.

"By rickshaw, it shouldn't take us to long to get to the palace. I can also report that, happily, there is no water on the roads tonight. I am sure you are pleased about that, Mrs. haf Llewellyn."
"Yes, it would be a shame to have bought this dress specially for this and to then get it muddy."

The group laughed as they boarded the little rickshaw, which quickly set off for the palace.

Syr Aled ap Llywellyn, Honoured Delegate of Avaerilon, and his wife, Sorcha haf Llywellyn

by **Central and Eastern Visayas** » Sat Aug 11, 2012 5:54 am

HE Eugene O. Lee, MS
Approaching the Palace of the Republic
1805 Local Time

"Sir, we are two minutes out."

"Understood," replied Eugene Lee. Turning to his wife, Allyn, who was nursing their son Leroy, he smiled.

-----

Palace of the Republic
1808 Local Time

Ambassador Lee and his family alighted from their vehicle. Eugene was dressed in the blue mess prescribed for the CEV Army--his former service prior to the Foreign Ministry and subsequently his current post--while Allyn was dressed in a scarlet gown. Leroy, who was a wee seven months, was clad in a custom-fitted midnight blue robe. Seeing Council-shen Ngô Huynh, he saluted, then introduced himself and his family.

"Good evening, Council-shen. I am Eugene Lee y Ongpin, CE VIsayan ambassador to the City-State of Phing Phong." Gesturing to his wife and son, he added "My wife, Allyn Syjuco e Ibarra, and my son, Leroy Lee y Syjuco."

by **Teddy Bear Republic** » Sat Aug 11, 2012 7:36 am

The Roger Donald Epsilon limousine ran silently - it was, after all, powered by an electric vehicles like so many others in the TBRE - to the Palace of the Republic. Ted Buckle, Ambassador of the TBRE to the people of Phing Phong, was dressed in his best suit, as was his wife Katherine in a white dress. Buckle had initially wanted to dress in his Velkarstern, the national dress with belt spats and one-breast tunic, but decided against it - even the government issued one was a bit loud with its colors, and the last thing he wanted was to draw too much attention. A modest bear, he also knew it didn't reflect the TBRE - a nation that went around its business with little fanfare - well. He certainly wanted to set a good impression for the TBRE in what was his first major diplomatic event in this beautiful nation.

And a beautiful nation it was. Compared to his home city of Toyland, an oft-rainy, cloudy and dark capital city, the weather and the fact that the environment was so nonchalantly beautiful here that he reminded himself to get out of the embassy more often. Already, he admired the nation and its inhabitants from his tinted windows.

Breathing in deeply, he took out his preparatory notes, such as a guest list with pictures and a quick background that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs could obtain and gather. Although primarily a diplomat concerned with treaty and document drafting (being his specialty), interpersonal relations were important to him as well, and some of the TBRE's other allies would also be there, which he noted down. He also read through his own notes on customs and faux pas in the nation and of some of the others that would be attending. He looked over the itinerary, then begun to take out his watch.

"Don't worry," his wife Katherine said, suddenly, "we're still early." Buckle smiled - his wife always knew that he was a stickler for punctuality. Come to think about it, she always seemed to know what his thoughts were, and he briefly wondered if she was a mind reader.

The car came slowly to a halt, and the door next to him opened, the driver nodding as Buckle and his wife got out. The driver - like the car - was from the Diplomat Protection Squad of the First Presidential Guard assigned to the embassy. Thanking him, the couple stepped into cue behind the other diplomats, politely waiting their turn to do their greetings.

by **Phing Phong** » Sat Aug 11, 2012 7:50 am

Foot of the Palace stairs

Before the next delegation arrived, the Minister skimmed through her copy of the guest list, which incorporated photographs and a brief biography by each name. She wished to avoid a situation in which she incorrectly identified a guest, as her role as Foreign Affairs Minister necessitated an awareness of, unsurprisingly, foreign politicians and leaders. She returned the list to one of her assistants as another dignitary, who she recognised as the North American People's Commissar, came striding forth, before offering a greeting.

"It is a pleasure to have guests such as yourselves in attendance," she replied. Looking past the couple, she could not see their vehicle. "I hope your journey here was pleasant. Are you familiar with the Namorese delegation? They were among the first to arrive, and are currently being entertained by the Council-shen in the People's Hall. My assistant will show you the way, and I am sure the serving staff will promptly offer you refreshments."

With that, the assistant led the North Americans towards the staircase. The delegates were arriving more frequently now, and it was under a minute before the next limousine pulled up at the Palace entrance. The Radiatian Embassy occupied a property in the centre of Yaowarat, a few kilometres away from the Council-shen's former constituency house, and Chararampol had lost count of the number of times she had visited the Yeung Building.

"Ambassador MacFarlane, it is a pleasure to see you again. I hope that the Prime Minister is well, and the Council-shen asks after him. He considers our mutual ties to be very valuable to the country, and will be looking forward to conversing with yourselves later this evening. Regrettably, the General Moderator had prior commitments to a party conference and was unable to attend. I see that one of my assistants is ready to escort you to the People's Hall, where some of the guests are already being refreshed."

A few moments later, music began to fill the warm summer air.

"Phraya Shinichi, I would imagine that is the band," she remarked to her deputy, who had seemed rather startled by the occurrence. The representative of Woodstead and his companion exited their limousine.

"Mr. Lennox, welcome to the celebrations. I hear the music has just started, and the Council-shen awaits your arrival. If you would care for a drink, the serving staff are on hand to provide yourselves with refreshments."

"Ah, your highnesses have made it here safely," the Minister greeted the Minrozian royal delegation. "It is a pleasure to welcome you both to our national celebrations, and we hope everything will be to your liking. Have either of you visited our country before? I believe two herbal tonics are waiting for you in the People's Hall, and my assistant will show you to there."

The two delegations were escorted up the stairs, and Chararampol was unable to make out whether or not the Minrozians were conversing with their counterparts from Woodstead. She noticed a Cadillac speeding through the front gates of the palace, and prepared to greet the next arrivals. The President of Elyomia offered his hand, and she duly shook it.

"I am not asked to dispense with titles very often, Elak," she replied. Despite the President's request, she felt uneasy addressing a foreign head of state with first names, but went along with the process to avoid appearing unduly cold and formal. "Most dignitaries I encounter seem very preoccupied with the correct form of address appropriate to their station. It is my pleasure to welcome your entourage here, on behalf of Phing Phong. Am I correct in thinking that the Pysskyl Conference is due to be hosted in a few weeks? Our represenative, Luang Ao-Khiao, is eagerly anticipating the formation of the Stonewall Alliance's constitutional framework. My assistant here will escort you to the People's Hall, where refreshments and music are being provided."

As they moved off, a rickshaw came slowly to a stop a few metres away. Quickly, she turned to her deputy.

"Why was Syr Aled not sent a limousine?" she remarked angrily.

"We offered to pick him up in an official vehicle, but the man seemed set on taking the local transport," Shinichi replied.

"Ah, I see. At least he did not attempt to negotiate the CTS network - it must be packed at a time like this."

Chararampol recognised the attache that accompanied the two representatives from the Bureau, but could not remember his name. After giving a wai, she began to greet them.

"Syr Aled, welcome to the Palace of the Republic. I hope the local transport did not prove too hazardous? Me and my colleague were just discussing the pitfalls of public transportation on a national holiday like today - I would not recommend trying out the CTS system without several hours spare. We have installed a temporary ramp, as the Ambassador of Dae Gwo uses a wheelchair, and you may find this a more convenient route to the palace entrance. The last Council-shen always complained about the stairs, due to the debilitating consequences of his imprisonment. My assistants are on hand to assist you in any way you require, and refreshments are being provided in the People's Hall with the Council-shen."

Chararampol was anticipating the start of the event, as the welcoming period began to draw towards its halfway point. Seconds later, the Visayan Ambassador and his wife arrived in their embassy vehicle.

"Good evening, your Excellency, and welcome to Phing Phong. May I complement you and your wife on your attire," she commented. "Luang Syjuco e Ibarra, if you wish for some privacy with your son, then our waiting staff can show you to a private room. My assistant shall escort you to the People's Hall, where the dignitaries who have already arrived are socialising and talking to the Council-shen."

As the Visayans were led up the stairs, the Minister began conversing with her assistants. Next arrived the delegation from the Teddy Bear Republic Empire, a nation with which Phing Phong had had a surprising amount of contact due to the recentness of diplomatic relations.

"Ambassador Buckle, welcome to the celebrations. I hope your journey here was pleasant and without issue. The roads can become very busy during national festivals, and we would not want any guests to experience inconvenience. Some of the other guests have already arrived, and my aides inform me that some good conversation has begun at the main event. My assistant will show you to the People's Hall, where the Council-shen, his wife and the guests are currently enjoying cool beverages. The serving staff have prepared fresh lemonade especially for your delegation, as per the requests of your Foreign Affairs Ministry."

With that, Chararampol smiled at the group, before consulting her deputy as to how things were progressing in the People's Hall.

People's Hall, Palace of the Republic

The People's Hall occupied a large portion of the ground floor of the Palace's southern wing. Formerly the Governor's breakfast room, the walls were clad with teak sourced from the forests that used to surround the Palace, and the floor was formed from traditional rush matting. Large windows provided guests with views of the Chakravartampriya Boulevard and the grounds behind the Palace, complete with hedgerows, fruit trees and a small lake. Upon assuming office, Deua Theow Phon personally hosted a dinner for the former Governor's now elderly servants in the Hall, before renaming it in honour of the city's populace.

The Council-shen and his wife awaited the arrival of the first guests, which turned out to be the Namorese delegation. While Trân Thanh Kiêm was a politician in her own right, as District Moderator of Yaowarat Sampheng, she was attending due to her position as the head of state's wife.

"Honoured President, friends and guests," he began. "It is a privilege to welcome you to the People's Hall. Your recent assessment of our relations was very flattering, and we have taken on board the information you provided to us about the Namorese opinion of Phing Phong. Ambassador Park has not arrived yet, but I will be sure to introduce the Dae Gwo delegation when they do."

The group then moved away to the bar area in pursuit of some much-needed refreshments. Next to arrive were the two officials from the Greater Aryan Race. Ngô Huynh had met the Ambassador before, but not the General, and moved towards them to offer them a greeting.

by **The Greater Aryan Race** » Sat Aug 11, 2012 8:18 am

People's Hall
Palace of the Republic

"Your Excellency, we are most honored by your gracious welcome. The Fuhrer would like to express his sincerest congratulations to Phing Phong in commemoration of their national anniversary and he apologizes for his inability to attend, state affairs and whatnot." said Ambassador von Stassen who shook the hand of the Council-shen before reaching for the hand of his wife to kiss.

"May I also present General Lange, a representative from the Reich Ministry for State Security."

At this, General Lange also shook the hands of the Council-shen and his wife, bowing slightly as he did so.

"Your Excellency, Madam, I am greatly honored to have been provided the opportunity to attend the celebrations and festivities as a guest from the Greater Aryan Race."

by **North American Republics** » Sat Aug 11, 2012 8:53 am

Palace of the Republic

"I sure am glad we came. It is such a shame we gave the guy such a hard time," Bryan said in a low voice to Odessa while following the assistant.

Following his lead, Odessa responded back, "Don't worry about him. He was," Odessa shot Bryan a dirty look and after a brief pause pause she continued, "fairly compensated for it already. I don't see you spending money like that at home or on me even! Anyway, who is this Council-shen person?"

"None other than the head of state of Phing Phong and his name is Ngô Huynh. Didn't I give you that book on Phing Phong history? You could have at least looked something up online about Phing Phong." Bryan and Odessa finished their conversation there because before their eyes was the People's Hall in all of its beauty and the Council-shen entertaining his guests.

by **Falsea** » Sat Aug 11, 2012 8:54 am

Ambassador Wright, dressed in a black suit and red tie, with a hammer and sickle sash on his left arm was awaiting for his wife to arrive in the airport. The ambassador, having already waited for at least 20 minutes was losing his patience, because he was always a prudent man, but when the private plane bearing the Falsean coat of arms finally landed in the airfield, the ambassador's mood changed right away. He put on his best smile as he went to the plane to greet his wife, Mrs. Katherine Wright, who was dressed in beautiful, red gown.

"Do you like my outfit?", said Mrs. Wright cheerfully before planting a kiss on ambassador Wright's lips.

"Yes, i love it! Now, let's go before we run late for the celebration.", he said as he began walking towards the airport's exit.

The two immediately flagged down a taxi, and they were off. It took only a few minutes for the taxi to take them to the Palace of the Republic, but when it did, the two delegates had already put on their best attitudes and smile for the occasion. The two, after paying the taxi, got out and walked towards the entrance, where someone was already awaiting them.

"Hello there, sorry we're late. Allow me to introduce myself, my name is Dalton Wright, delegate of the People's Republic of Falsea to your fine nation, and this here is my wife, Katherine Wright, officeholder and deputy of the Cultural Affairs Office of the state party.", said the ambassador as he put his hand forward for a handshake.

by **Central and Eastern Visayas** » Sat Aug 11, 2012 9:40 am

Allyn I. Syjuco-Lee
Palace of the Republic

"Thank you for your offer," Allyn replied, cradling a cooing Leroy as they were escorted to a private room where she could continue nursing him.

"Gene," she said to her husband, addressing him by his diminutive, "Leroy and I will go to the private room we were offered."

"If it helps the little guy, sure. I'll let you know when the celebrations begin," Eugene replied.

Eugene O. Lee
People's Hall, Palace of the Republic

As Ambassador Lee entered the hall, he found himself immersed in an awe-inspiring experience. No wonder my older brother wanted pictures, he mused while making a beeline for the bar area.

by **Millyland** » Sat Aug 11, 2012 10:23 am

As her private plane drew to a stop, Lynda had a question for her aide.

"Áyä, where are we supposed to be going again?"

"To Phing Phong, ma'am," she replied, not looking up from her book.

"Bloody hell! Why are we even here?"

The plane halted, and the doors opened. Áyä rose from her seat, walked towards the exit, and signalled for Lynda to wait. A few minutes later, she re-entered the plane.

"If you would come, ma'am, there is transport waiting for us. I will brief you of the circumstances there."

The duo exited the plane, and proceeded towards a black limousine which appeared to be waiting for them. The driver opened the doors, and Lynda entered, followed by her aide. Within a few seconds, the limo was already on its way.

"To answer your previous question, ma'am," replied Áyä,"We must attend the Celebratory Dinner of the 89th Republic Day." She passed Lynda a slip of paper . As the Delegate looked upon Áyä, bewildered, the aide quickly explained. "It's a letter, ma'am, from the Head of Government in this country. It should explain anything you must know."

"Right. So, anything special I have to do?"

"Be polite, eat the food, and try not to cause another international incident."

The limousine stopped, and waiting outside was a woman wearing a red headscarf. The two guests exited, and the vehicle quickly departed. Áyä proceeded toward the woman, much to Lynda's relief, as she had absolutely no idea who this mystery person was.

"Madam Minister," said Áyä as she curtseyed, It is an honour to meet you."

by **Namor** » Sat Aug 11, 2012 10:59 am

PEOPLE'S HALL

"It is a pleasure to meet You, Your Excellency," President Chen shook the Council-shen's hand. "I, on behalf of Namorese worldwide, would like to send You my warmest greetings. If we cooperate, relations between the peoples of Namor and Phing Phong can last as long as the River Nozama. I will be very glad to meet the delegation from Dae Gwo. In the meantime, it would be nice if I could take a week-long visit around Phing Phong."

Chen then reached for his pocket, where he got out a small yet pleasant-looking Namorese antelope statue made of pure gold. "This is for Your Excellency." He handed the antelope statue over to the Council-shen. Then, he reached for his other pocket, where he got out a collection of Namorese stamps, and handed it over to the Council-shen's wife. "This, Honorable Ma'am, is for You."

Tzo Chin and his wife shook the Council-shen's hand, followed by Ambassador Nguyen, and soon everyone from the Namorese delegation was done paying their respects to the leaders of the Phing Phongese people. They left for the bar area, where the waiter there offered them stuff to drink.

"If you would like to have beer?" the waiter politely asked President Chen and his delegation in pure Phing Phong English.

"I would, thank you," Chen bowed in front of the waiter, who broadly smiled. "Hey, Tzo Chin! Madame Chin! Nguyen! Want beer?"

"I would appreciate it," everyone in the Namorese delegation said. They all took a bottle of beer and started drinking. Pleasant music from Phing Phong started playing. It was a peaceful and calm night.

by **Hippostania** » Sat Aug 11, 2012 11:20 am

A black limousine with diplomatic plates and small Hippostanian flags waving in the front part of the car pulled over next to the main entrance to the Palace of the Republic. As the chauffeur opened the rear doors, Hippostanianian ambassador to Phing Phong Ryan Mäkelä and his wife Amanda emerged from the vehicle. Amanda quickly fixed Ryan's tie and the couple started walking up the stairs covered in red carpet to the main entrance.

As Ryan and Amanda reached the top of the stairs, they were greeted by the Phing Phongian foreign minister. Amanda shook his hand with the minister, followed by Ryan. After handing a small boquet of madonna lilies to the minister, which is a traditional way of expressing respect and friendship in Hippostania, Ryan said: ''It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Chararampol! On behalf of Hippostania and its people, I congratulate you for your 89th year of independence!''

Republic Day Celebratory Dinner (IC Thread)

Republic Day Celebratory Dinner (IC Thread)

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