The Power Breakfast [ATTN Luziyca]

[Namor]

"Alright, then. It's been a great discussion and I look forward for more like these. Thank you, Mr. President." Fu rose from his chair and extended his hand for Shjoraski to shake. Then, Vice President Derrick Lee stood and shook Shjoraski's hand, too.

"This concludes the talking, but there's still more to be done," said Fu. "Both of us will have to face the international press, who will ask us many...pesky questions," said Fu with a grin. "And then pesky questions from the Central Council. Anyways, on to the press room."

Everyone filed out of the Unity Room, and went to the Executive House's press room in the western wing of the house. Minutes ago, reporters had already packed the room, cameras were already set, questions already prepared. The Executive House has allowed reporters of any country participate in this Q&A session with the leaders of both countries as long as they don't break protocol (then they'll be tugged out).

Two podiums were set---one on the left side and one on the right. The President-General took the left side and cordially invited Shjoraski to take the right. Behind them both was the seal of the People's Republic, a flag of Namor draped to the side and a portrait of the late Paramount Leader. Applause filled the room as both leaders took their places. President-General Fu spoke up to let the press know what he and Shjoraski had been talking about in that long discussion.

"First of all, I want to thank our friends from the press for being here," he said. "You know that the meeting between President Shjoraski of Luziyca and I is a milestone in Namo-Luziycan relations, and we both do too. Right now, I want to thank Mr. Shjoraski again for coming here and discussing various topics with me, and I welcome future interactions with him in the future.

"Mr. Shjoraski and I spoke fondly about the Nantai question, on the status of the occupied territories and the legitimacy of Luziycan occupation," continued Fu. "During the discussion, Mr. Shjoraski agreed to officially designate the occupied territories as 'Namorese territory under Luziycan administration,' but he showed reluctance in implementing reunification and decided that at least in Luziyca, it will remain a strict legal term. But at least the step has been taken, Nantai is recognized by Bethlehem as Namorese territory, but both of us cannot agree upon a timeline in which the occupied territories will return to us. This will be discussed in the future and I hope Mr. Shjoraski will be open to future discussions. But I believe the designation of the territories as Namorese territory is a monumental step in our push for territorial integrity. This question aside, Mr. Shjoraski and I agree that the occupied territories can become a bridge between our two countries, and serve as an important area for future Namo-Luziycan trade. I told Mr. Shjoraski of my intention to establish special economic zones in western Namor which will attract Luziycan investment, and he said he is willing to do the same with the occupied territories to welcome Namorese investment. I am in support of Namo-Luziycan trade, Mr. Shjoraski supports Namo-Luziycan trade...guys, trade is the future. International trade is inevitable. Trade with Luziyca is not a bad thing, but a good thing. Luziycan businesses are welcome to invest in Namor as long as they follow our laws. In turn, I will make sure that Namorese businesses in Luziyca will follow Luziycan laws.

"Mr. Shjoraski and I talked a lot on current global issues as planned, most importantly the situation in the East Namor Sea and peace in northwestern Esquarium," Fu went on. "We both agree that the presence of dangerous forces in the East Sea is definitely worrying. Mr. Shjoraski agrees that it is in his country's best interests to keep these forces at bay. He will create incentives for certain parties to maintain its relationship with Bethlehem, and I am in support of that.

"On northwestern Esquarium, Mr. Shjoraski and I cannot agree on the status of Roubao. I believe it's an independent country as most Esquarians do, and Shjoraski still sees it as Unolian territory. But a war fought in Roubao will surely destabilize northwestern Esquarium. Us and Luziyca are committed to keeping the peace in western Esquarium, and therefore our countries oppose anything that will destabilize northwestern Esquarium.

"...and that's pretty much the bulk of our discussion. Am I wrong to say that President Shjoraski has anything to add...?" Fu turned to the Luziycan President. If he didn't have anything to say, then the questions can begin rolling out.

[Luziyca]

Shjoraski said, "Firstly, I thank Mr. Fu for being willing to host the summit here in Namo. Now, I feel that it is in our best interests to start having the questions roll out, for there is no time like the present."

[Qianrong]

"This is Leung Men-Xiang with Radio Free Qianrong," said a reporter towards the front of the room. "If I may have the first question, can you tell us the specifics of your agreed East Namor Sea policy, particularly the points directed at Qianrong?"

[Luziyca]

"This is Leung Men-Xiang with Radio Free Qianrong," said a reporter towards the front of the room. "If I may have the first question, can you tell us the specifics of your agreed East Namor Sea policy, particularly the points directed at Qianrong?"

Shjoraski said that, "Namor and us have agreed that when I get back, I will negotiate a plan to remove the nuclear weapons from Qianrongese soil, and we plan on activating LAFB Yucheng to help search for Chancellor Song Li-Chao."

[Britanno]

"This is Jessica Hu, with BNB, and I have a question for President Fu Wen. Mr President, not too long ago the CIA launched three coups in Eastern Esquarium, triggering a crisis that caused the deaths of thousands. Is it fair to say that Namor is trading away its global obligations in return for getting Naintai back, and therefore delivering a boost to your personal approval ratings at home? Is the "People's Republic" giving up on people outside of Namor?"

[Pavonsitade]

After the other questions came that of a well-suited man.

"Timothy Haas of the Pavonistade Agency of News," he introduced, "It is undeniable that Luziyca and Namor has strained relations in the past, and there will still be noteworthy sentiment despite such breakthroughs as this. How will you ascertain that trade will be 'inevitable' and be 'the future' as Mr. Fu stated? Likewise, how would you be sure that lawful businesses and investments will truly be accepted by the people of both countries and lead to improved ties?"

[Luziyca]

After the other questions came that of a well-suited man.

"Timothy Haas of the Pavonistade Agency of News," he introduced, "It is undeniable that Luziyca and Namor has strained relations in the past, and there will still be noteworthy sentiment despite such breakthroughs as this. How will you ascertain that trade will be 'inevitable' and be 'the future' as Mr. Fu stated? Likewise, how would you be sure that lawful businesses and investments will truly be accepted by the people of both countries and lead to improved ties?"

Shjoraski replied, "The reason why it is inevitable is due to the fact that Namor has large markets which has been untapped. Since normalization, trade has increased from virtually nil to being the third largest trading partner, and with many Luziycan companies tapping in the new market that is Namor, we feel that trade will be the glue that binds us together."

[Namor]

"This is Leung Men-Xiang with Radio Free Qianrong," said a reporter towards the front of the room. "If I may have the first question, can you tell us the specifics of your agreed East Namor Sea policy, particularly the points directed at Qianrong?"

"About Qianrong..." said President-General Fu (making sure he didn't mention anything about 'letting the ASQ bomb that country' during his discussion with Shjoraski, as that would sound unprofessional), "....as President Shjoraski said, a nuclear-armed Qianrong is detrimental to both stability in the East Namor Sea, and the domestic situation in Qianrong. We support actions taken by anyone to rid Qianrong of its nuclear arsenal, and as Qianrong's primary benefactor, Luziyca can do much to make sure that happens. Also, we are supportive of Luziycan measures to prevent the regime in Qianrong from turning to governments, particularly the Zepuhan regime, for assistance that it can easily get from Bethlehem, us or any moderate parties in the region. No one has abandoned anyone, no one will abandon anyone, the status quo needs to stay in the East Sea. Thanks for asking."

"This is Jessica Hu, with BNB, and I have a question for President Fu Wen. Mr President, not too long ago the CIA launched three coups in Eastern Esquarium, triggering a crisis that caused the deaths of thousands. Is it fair to say that Namor is trading away its global obligations in return for getting Nantai back, and therefore delivering a boost to your personal approval ratings at home? Is the "People's Republic" giving up on people outside of Namor?"

"Uh...." Fu mumbled for a split second, "First of all, when it comes to situations like these, one doesn't necessarily have to trade something or something else. We didn't go through this much, but the Namorese position hasn't changed. We want democratic governance to return to places in eastern Esquarium where it has been taken away. There is no one and there is nothing saying that...democratic governance can be restored to eastern Esquarium in turn for Namor giving up its rightful claim over the occupied territories or vice versa. I have full confidence in my people, and I believe they care equally for both the occupied territories and the east."

"Timothy Haas of the Pavonistade Agency of News," he introduced, "It is undeniable that Luziyca and Namor has strained relations in the past, and there will still be noteworthy sentiment despite such breakthroughs as this. How will you ascertain that trade will be 'inevitable' and be 'the future' as Mr. Fu stated? Likewise, how would you be sure that lawful businesses and investments will truly be accepted by the people of both countries and lead to improved ties?"

Fu decided to allow Shjoraski answer first.

Shjoraski replied, "The reason why it is inevitable is due to the fact that Namor has large markets which has been untapped. Since normalization, trade has increased from virtually nil to being the third largest trading partner, and with many Luziycan companies tapping in the new market that is Namor, we feel that trade will be the glue that binds us together."

"If our two countries increase trade relations," added Fu, "it will make us dependent on each other in some degree. Perhaps that interdependence will make us more rational in making decisions regarding relations between us and Luziyca."

[New Zepuha]

"Klaus Idlemann here with the Rebel Inquirer," said a man in a zoot suit with a wiry frame, "With New Zepuhan intentions for the East Namor sea becoming ever evident, do you worry about announced negotiations between the acting chancellor of Qianrong and senior officials in Sinro City, specifically I cite the reference to a possible re-introduction of New Zepuhan troops into Qianrong on a permanent base."

[Namor]

"Klaus Idlemann here with the Rebel Inquirer," said a man in a zoot suit with a wiry frame, "With New Zepuhan intentions for the East Namor sea becoming ever evident, do you worry about announced negotiations between the acting chancellor of Qianrong and senior officials in Sinro City, specifically I cite the reference to a possible re-introduction of New Zepuhan troops into Qianrong on a permanent base."

"Mr. Shjoraski and I went over this during the discussions," said Fu. "He said that Luziyca---and possibly us---will provide aid to the Qianrongese only if they agree not to accept aid from New Zepuha. Qianrong has two roads ahead, and cannot take both at the same time---they can get aid from Luziyca or they can get aid from New Zepuha. If Qianrong accepts aid from New Zepuha, Luziyca won't aid Qianrong. The same goes for us; we will not help Qianrong sort out its problems if they want the Zepuhans to do it instead.

"As for the negotiations between the Qianrongese and Zepuhan leaderships, the Qianrongese should take our message seriously. Both us and Luziyca are closer to Qianrong than New Zepuha is, and if anything goes wrong we have a mandate to do something about it. I know that currently the Qianrongese government wants to have an stable relationship with Namor. They should do the right thing if they want to keep it that way. Ignorance of its relationship with us and Luziyca will not bring them results."

[New Zepuha]

"Interesting.." murmured the reporter to himself taking a few notes down, "To follow that up, it has been announced that Bergmann will not seek a second term. With popular moderate candidate Adolf von Berkhausen running a platform of reform, if the New Zepuhan government were successful as such reforms would Namor be more open to repair frayed relations with New Zepuha?"

[Luziyca]

"This is Leung Men-Xiang with Radio Free Qianrong," said a reporter towards the front of the room. "If I may have the first question, can you tell us the specifics of your agreed East Namor Sea policy, particularly the points directed at Qianrong?"

"About Qianrong..." said President-General Fu (making sure he didn't mention anything about 'letting the ASQ bomb that country' during his discussion with Shjoraski, as that would sound unprofessional), "....as President Shjoraski said, a nuclear-armed Qianrong is detrimental to both stability in the East Namor Sea, and the domestic situation in Qianrong. We support actions taken by anyone to rid Qianrong of its nuclear arsenal, and as Qianrong's primary benefactor, Luziyca can do much to make sure that happens. Also, we are supportive of Luziycan measures to prevent the regime in Qianrong from turning to governments, particularly the Zepuhan regime, for assistance that it can easily get from Bethlehem, us or any moderate parties in the region. No one has abandoned anyone, no one will abandon anyone, the status quo needs to stay in the East Sea. Thanks for asking."

Shjoraski nodded and muttered, "Yep."

"This is Jessica Hu, with BNB, and I have a question for President Fu Wen. Mr President, not too long ago the CIA launched three coups in Eastern Esquarium, triggering a crisis that caused the deaths of thousands. Is it fair to say that Namor is trading away its global obligations in return for getting Nantai back, and therefore delivering a boost to your personal approval ratings at home? Is the "People's Republic" giving up on people outside of Namor?"

"Uh...." Fu mumbled for a split second, "First of all, when it comes to situations like these, one doesn't necessarily have to trade something or something else. We didn't go through this much, but the Namorese position hasn't changed. We want democratic governance to return to places in eastern Esquarium where it has been taken away. There is no one and there is nothing saying that...democratic governance can be restored to eastern Esquarium in turn for Namor giving up its rightful claim over the occupied territories or vice versa. I have full confidence in my people, and I believe they care equally for both the occupied territories and the east."

Shjoraski nodded and thought to himself "The CIA may have ruined two nations, but one, Ocidenia still stands."

"Timothy Haas of the Pavonistade Agency of News," he introduced, "It is undeniable that Luziyca and Namor has strained relations in the past, and there will still be noteworthy sentiment despite such breakthroughs as this. How will you ascertain that trade will be 'inevitable' and be 'the future' as Mr. Fu stated? Likewise, how would you be sure that lawful businesses and investments will truly be accepted by the people of both countries and lead to improved ties?"

Fu decided to allow Shjoraski answer first.

Shjoraski replied, "The reason why it is inevitable is due to the fact that Namor has large markets which has been untapped. Since normalization, trade has increased from virtually nil to being the third largest trading partner, and with many Luziycan companies tapping in the new market that is Namor, we feel that trade will be the glue that binds us together."

"If our two countries increase trade relations," added Fu, "it will make us dependent on each other in some degree. Perhaps that interdependence will make us more rational in making decisions regarding relations between us and Luziyca."

With that, Shjoraski applauded at Fu's reply, and he added on, "Indeed, Mr. Fu!" He then listened intently to the question, before replying.

"Interesting.." murmured the reporter to himself taking a few notes down, "To follow that up, it has been announced that Bergmann will not seek a second term. With popular moderate candidate Adolf von Berkhausen running a platform of reform, if the New Zepuhan government were successful as such reforms would Namor be more open to repair frayed relations with New Zepuha?"

"If Adolf von Berkhausen does repeal the racial laws, implements equality amongst the citizenry, and brings forth freedom and democracy, we will open relations with New Zepuha."

[Michillies]

A tall, lanky, tan fellow launched out of his chair, chomping at the bit to pick the minds of the two most influential politicians in Esquarium. "Joncarlo Corrallos with Le Michillano with two questions."

Corrallos turned to the Luziycan President first: "To Sinyoro Shjoraski, what is Bethlehem's reaction to the recent formation of the so-called 'Nevan Commonwealth'," choosing his words carefully to avoid giving any hint of legitimacy to the Nevan government, "and the events that can be most reasonably summed up as an annexation of Arnborg, a former Dominion of the Christian Republic, by the Nevan Royalist Administration?"

And with the footwork of his first question done, Corrallos breathed a sign of relief and turned to the host, the President-General: "And to Sinyoro Fu, in relation to the question presented by Sinyora Hu, how does the government in Namo react to the peace negotiations being launched between the CIA-backed administration of Simeon Brozhav in Ocidenia and the secessionist guerillas?"

[Luziyca]

A tall, lanky, tan fellow launched out of his chair, chomping at the bit to pick the minds of the two most influential politicians in Esquarium. "Joncarlo Corrallos with Le Michillano with two questions."

Corrallos turned to the Luziycan President first: "To Sinyoro Shjoraski, what is Bethlehem's reaction to the recent formation of the so-called 'Nevan Commonwealth'," choosing his words carefully to avoid giving any hint of legitimacy to the Nevan government, "and the events that can be most reasonably summed up as an annexation of Arnborg, a former Dominion of the Christian Republic, by the Nevan Royalist Administration?"

And with the footwork of his first question done, Corrallos breathed a sign of relief and turned to the host, the President-General: "And to Sinyoro Fu, in relation to the question presented by Sinyora Hu, how does the government in Namo react to the peace negotiations being launched between the CIA-backed administration of Simeon Brozhav in Ocidenia and the secessionist guerillas?"

Shjoraski replied, "Mr. Corallos, no comment, though we are closely monitoring the situation at hand."

[Namor]

"Interesting.." murmured the reporter to himself taking a few notes down, "To follow that up, it has been announced that Bergmann will not seek a second term. With popular moderate candidate Adolf von Berkhausen running a platform of reform, if the New Zepuhan government were successful as such reforms would Namor be more open to repair frayed relations with New Zepuha?"

"New Zepuha should have a democratic government that abandons all of its repressive and racist policies," said Fu. "That's really all I can say, although let's stay with the discussion here."

A tall, lanky, tan fellow launched out of his chair, chomping at the bit to pick the minds of the two most influential politicians in Esquarium. "Joncarlo Corrallos with Le Michillano with two questions."

Corrallos turned to the Luziycan President first: "To Sinyoro Shjoraski, what is Bethlehem's reaction to the recent formation of the so-called 'Nevan Commonwealth'," choosing his words carefully to avoid giving any hint of legitimacy to the Nevan government, "and the events that can be most reasonably summed up as an annexation of Arnborg, a former Dominion of the Christian Republic, by the Nevan Royalist Administration?"

And with the footwork of his first question done, Corrallos breathed a sign of relief and turned to the host, the President-General: "And to Sinyoro Fu, in relation to the question presented by Sinyora Hu, how does the government in Namo react to the peace negotiations being launched between the CIA-backed administration of Simeon Brozhav in Ocidenia and the secessionist guerillas?"

"There should be peace in eastern Esquarium," said Fu. "Er...it's a positive step forward."

[Iglesian Archipelago]

Tall redhead Zoë Théa, a foreign affairs correspondent for EBS News (EBS, Eylesiantyde Blyndesystéma or Iglesian Broadcasting System, is the national public broadcaster of Iglesiantis), is in the press conference. She says: "Good morning/afternoon/evening, this is Zoë Théa for EBS News. I will ask three questions. To President-General Fu, I will ask you the following question: how much of a threat do you consider the formation of the Nevan Commonwealth to be? To President Shjoraski, how much will you intervene for Unolia in case Roubao is invaded by Unolian forces? And last but not least, I will ask to both Mr. Fu and Mr. Shjoraski: will Namor and Luziyca eventually join forces for a potential alliance against the Triumvirate and other alliances considered «rogue», considering both of your countries reach an agreement for the Nantai issue and are considering opening up the road to friendly Namo-Luziycan trade?"

[Britanno]

"Uh...." Fu mumbled for a split second, "First of all, when it comes to situations like these, one doesn't necessarily have to trade something or something else. We didn't go through this much, but the Namorese position hasn't changed. We want democratic governance to return to places in eastern Esquarium where it has been taken away. There is no one and there is nothing saying that...democratic governance can be restored to eastern Esquarium in turn for Namor giving up its rightful claim over the occupied territories or vice versa. I have full confidence in my people, and I believe they care equally for both the occupied territories and the east."

"Will all due respect Mr President, you've been dodging every question on Eastern Esquarium so far. Namor condemns the CIA's coups in Ocidenia does it not? If so, why are you shaking the hand of the man who ordered them? Surely, as a matter of principle, you should not be talking about closer ties with Luziyca after what has occurred? Do you consider trade more valuable than human life?"

[Qianrong]

"Excuse me, I'm Zhou Shen-Ying from the FDRQ Ministry of Information, if I may have a question directed at both Mr. Fu and Mr. Shjoraski... there's a growing sentiment in Qianrong that Luziyca has totally abandoned Qianrong, and that Namor remains an enemy to the country. Do you believe that the actions you plan to enact would end these negative perceptions, and save Qianrong's alliance with Luziyca and detente with Namor? Are you worried that there might be distrust or backlash from the Qianrongese, or do you expect everything to go over smoothly?"

[Namor]

Tall redhead Zoë Théa, a foreign affairs correspondent for EBS News (EBS, Eylesiantyde Blyndesystéma or Iglesian Broadcasting System, is the national public broadcaster of Iglesiantis), is in the press conference. She says: "Good morning/afternoon/evening, this is Zoë Théa for EBS News. I will ask three questions. To President-General Fu, I will ask you the following question: how much of a threat do you consider the formation of the Nevan Commonwealth to be? To President Shjoraski, how much will you intervene for Unolia in case Roubao is invaded by Unolian forces? And last but not least, I will ask to both Mr. Fu and Mr. Shjoraski: will Namor and Luziyca eventually join forces for a potential alliance against the Triumvirate and other alliances considered «rogue», considering both of your countries reach an agreement for the Nantai issue and are considering opening up the road to friendly Namo-Luziycan trade?"

"Only three countries belong to this so-called 'commonwealth,'" said Fu. "That's Nevanmaa, Korencia and Arnborg. Three countries, out of...what..." he turned to Shjoraski. "...how many countries are there in this world? Must be two hundred or so. But anyway, what I was saying is that we shouldn't be worried a whole lot about this 'commonwealth' because I doubt it's going to expand and I am sure many countries are opposed to Nevanmaa's system of government and their way of life, so why would they even consider joining in the first place? Thanks for asking.

"About the Triumvirate, Namor will act whenever the alliance directly threatens our interests or the interests of our allies. We want to improve relations with the Triumvirate countries, but there needs to be an incentive to talk with them before this happens," said Fu. "Don't get me wrong, I am not a fan of the Triumvirate. Unolia? Koyro? Their people are held in chains. And they want more people to be held in chains with their alliance. But I think that there needs to be an organized effort to diplomatically resolve any differences or misunderstandings, so war can be averted, and I'm optimistic it will be.

"I don't know if Namor and Luziyca will participate in joint efforts to contain Triumvirate activities and intentions, but I believe Luziyca has nothing to gain and more to lose if they refuse to."

"Will all due respect Mr President, you've been dodging every question on Eastern Esquarium so far. Namor condemns the CIA's coups in Ocidenia does it not? If so, why are you shaking the hand of the man who ordered them? Surely, as a matter of principle, you should not be talking about closer ties with Luziyca after what has occurred? Do you consider trade more valuable than human life?"

Inwardly, Fu was getting a little annoyed, if not pissed. These damn foreigner's been asking me questions about eastern Esquarium, and asked Shjoraski none of the same subject, and I made my position crystal clear and they say I'm dodging 'every question?' Heavens, I thought this was a press conference, not a struggle session!

He cleared his throat, and suppressed outrage with a businessman's smile and a heartily chuckle. "I made my point extremely clear. Our stance on the situation in eastern Esquarium has not changed a bit---we condemned the regime change and we still do, and I myself said that I favor the restoration of democratic governance in countries which lost it. In order to do that," he shot a smiling look at Shjoraski, "Mr. Shjoraski's gotta do what he's gotta do.

"I will tell you, though, that my administration is not going to refuse seeking better relations with Luziyca just because of what goes on in the other side of the world," he said. "We are concerned and we are monitoring every move everyone's been making there, but it's just not worth enough to justify continued hostilities with Luziyca. Rather, I feel like if Namor and Luziyca improves relations and strengthens efforts at detente, what goes on in the east can be stopped in a more easier and diplomatic way. Don't you get it? We can't get anything done anywhere if we refuse to talk with each other. We can't resolve any problem no matter where it takes place if we don't shake hands. Trade? That's one thing. Eastern Esquarium?" his smile widened. "That's something else. It's really unfair to say that I think one thing is more 'valuable' than the other. I hope that answers your question.

"Don't go around saying I dodge questions about eastern Esquarium, then, because I made my stance transparent and my friend from Luziyca hasn't even commented on it. Yet."

"Excuse me, I'm Zhou Shen-Ying from the FDRQ Ministry of Information, if I may have a question directed at both Mr. Fu and Mr. Shjoraski... there's a growing sentiment in Qianrong that Luziyca has totally abandoned Qianrong, and that Namor remains an enemy to the country. Do you believe that the actions you plan to enact would end these negative perceptions, and save Qianrong's alliance with Luziyca and detente with Namor? Are you worried that there might be distrust or backlash from the Qianrongese, or do you expect everything to go over smoothly?"

"I'm pushing for Luziyca to do its part in making sure Qianrong doesn't invite in assistance from people we both don't want," said Fu. "The regime and the Qianrongese people need to realize that we are not their enemy. The reason why we are so concerned about Qianrong is because the regime not only serves as a proxy for hostile interests, but the regime hates us just because we have these." He pointed to the reporter and all the reporters in the room. "Freedom of the press. Freedom to speak whatever you want. A transparent, democratic government in this country. Qianrong's leaders belch in the face of this, and this is why they don't like us.

"The Namorese People's Republic did not lift a single finger which allows Qianrong to justify hostile relations with us. If they think we're their enemy, well, it's their own damn fault. If you want some help in keeping your country stable, you could just give us a call. But you won't. Not my problem."

Just then, a shout came from the very back of the room. It was a person waving a banner reading (and him shouting as well) "Ngăn chặn sự đàn áp!" Fu saw the banner and thought it was Antelopian, but couldn't make out what it meant because he's not Antelopian.

"Chính phủ trong Yucheng là ác!" the activist kept shouting before security guards dragged him away. Fu pretended he didn't see.

[Michillies]

"Will all due respect Mr President, you've been dodging every question on Eastern Esquarium so far. Namor condemns the CIA's coups in Ocidenia does it not? If so, why are you shaking the hand of the man who ordered them? Surely, as a matter of principle, you should not be talking about closer ties with Luziyca after what has occurred? Do you consider trade more valuable than human life?"

Inwardly, Fu was getting a little annoyed, if not pissed. These damn foreigner's been asking me questions about eastern Esquarium, and asked Shjoraski none of the same subject, and I made my position crystal clear and they say I'm dodging 'every question?' Heavens, I thought this was a press conference, not a struggle session!

He cleared his throat, and suppressed outrage with a businessman's smile and a heartily chuckle. "I made my point extremely clear. Our stance on the situation in eastern Esquarium has not changed a bit---we condemned the regime change and we still do, and I myself said that I favor the restoration of democratic governance in countries which lost it. In order to do that," he shot a smiling look at Shjoraski, "Mr. Shjoraski's gotta do what he's gotta do.

"I will tell you, though, that my administration is not going to refuse seeking better relations with Luziyca just because of what goes on in the other side of the world," he said. "We are concerned and we are monitoring every move everyone's been making there, but it's just not worth enough to justify continued hostilities with Luziyca. Rather, I feel like if Namor and Luziyca improves relations and strengthens efforts at detente, what goes on in the east can be stopped in a more easier and diplomatic way. Don't you get it? We can't get anything done anywhere if we refuse to talk with each other. We can't resolve any problem no matter where it takes place if we don't shake hands. Trade? That's one thing. Eastern Esquarium?" his smile widened. "That's something else. It's really unfair to say that I think one thing is more 'valuable' than the other. I hope that answers your question.

"Don't go around saying I dodge questions about eastern Esquarium, then, because I made my stance transparent and my friend from Luziyca hasn't even commented on it. Yet."

Corrallos was fuming. Angry as hell, he shot up out of his seat to grill the President-General.

"To the President-General,"

Corrallos paused for a second to get his bearings straight and try to remember how to be polite, though it probably wouldn't be much help at all. At least remember how to do your job, Joncarlo...

"To the President-General, are you implying that the concerns of my people and all the people of Eastern Esquarium need to take a back seat to your neighbour issues? Are you implying that human lives on our side of the ocean are somehow not a concern to Namo? Or is Namo neglecting to think about those lives at all?

"And to sinyoro Shjoraski, because maissro Fu so kindly asked, what exactly is Bethlehem's take on the situation in Ocidenia and Eastern Esquarium at large?"

---

(OOC note: The use of the word maissro here directly reflects the British use of the word "master" as relating to addressing children, implying that Fu Wen is one.)

[Namor]

Corrallos was fuming. Angry as hell, he shot up out of his seat to grill the President-General.

"To the President-General,"

Corrallos paused for a second to get his bearings straight and try to remember how to be polite, though it probably wouldn't be much help at all. At least remember how to do your job, Joncarlo...

"To the President-General, are you implying that the concerns of my people and all the people of Eastern Esquarium need to take a back seat to your neighbour issues? Are you implying that human lives on our side of the ocean are somehow not a concern to Namo? Or is Namo neglecting to think about those lives at all?

"And to sinyoro Shjoraski, because maissro Fu so kindly asked, what exactly is Bethlehem's take on the situation in Ocidenia and Eastern Esquarium at large?"

Fu smiled and shook his head. Oh heaven, they should've given me a list of eastern journalists, he thought.

"Did you not listen?" he addressed Corrallos in a courteous manner. "I said that I am concerned with events in eastern Esquarium. I don't turn a blind eye on things like these. But think about it---if you were in my shoes, what would you do? There's a hotline service between Mr. Shjoraski and I, and we use it whenever there is a regional crisis or anything we want to talk about that has a high degree of importance. In fact, I've used it several times.

"I think the problem here is that some of you don't understand what 'improve relations with Luziyca' means. It doesn't mean we're going to become allies with Luziyca, since if that even is our objective then it'll take a long time, nor does it mean we are going to abandon some of our fundamental obligations elsewhere to thaw relations. Improved relations with Luziyca, honestly, doesn't mean we are going to agree with Luziyca on every single issue and every single thing. We aren't, you know, Kofeiya or something."

Some of the Namorese journalists present laughed. Fu shot a smile at Shjoraski hoping that the president didn't have any ill feelings.

"Improving relations with Luziyca, strengthening our communication with Luziycan officials and holding high-profile talks like these is the only rational way to solve regional crises and problems pertaining to us or Luziyca. With Mr. Shjoraski coming here, I feel like any crisis that has relations with Luziyca is a step closer to seeing a solution that will end it. I invited Shjoraski over so we can spill them all out---our agreements, our disagreements, and so forth. To solve problems like the one in eastern Esquarium, there are many ways to do it. This is one of the ways. But I know---and I hope some of you know---that there is one way not to do it. That's showing Shjoraski the door and refusing to talk with Luziycan officials.

"Eastern Esquarians should be happy that we are meeting here and now. They should be content that I see Shjoraski's face and am trying to solve problems in a diplomatic manner. Eastern Esquarians don't need to take a back seat to watch us and Luziyca solve differences that matter only to us. We are always happy to discuss problems that matter to them. There are many summits and meetings ahead that will specifically deal with these problems. But you need to realize that this is Western Esquarium, and as Western Esquarian countries we have to reserve some amount of time discussing issues that impact us the most.

"My tongue's ripped from all this talk. Next?"

[Luziyca]

Tall redhead Zoë Théa, a foreign affairs correspondent for EBS News (EBS, Eylesiantyde Blyndesystéma or Iglesian Broadcasting System, is the national public broadcaster of Iglesiantis), is in the press conference. She says: "Good morning/afternoon/evening, this is Zoë Théa for EBS News. I will ask three questions. To President-General Fu, I will ask you the following question: how much of a threat do you consider the formation of the Nevan Commonwealth to be? To President Shjoraski, how much will you intervene for Unolia in case Roubao is invaded by Unolian forces? And last but not least, I will ask to both Mr. Fu and Mr. Shjoraski: will Namor and Luziyca eventually join forces for a potential alliance against the Triumvirate and other alliances considered «rogue», considering both of your countries reach an agreement for the Nantai issue and are considering opening up the road to friendly Namo-Luziycan trade?"

Shjoraski said, "If Roubao were to be invaded by Unolia, if we do anything at all, we will fund both sides of the conflict. As for your second question, we will consider such an alliance if necessary, but alas, that is a different point for a different time."

"Uh...." Fu mumbled for a split second, "First of all, when it comes to situations like these, one doesn't necessarily have to trade something or something else. We didn't go through this much, but the Namorese position hasn't changed. We want democratic governance to return to places in eastern Esquarium where it has been taken away. There is no one and there is nothing saying that...democratic governance can be restored to eastern Esquarium in turn for Namor giving up its rightful claim over the occupied territories or vice versa. I have full confidence in my people, and I believe they care equally for both the occupied territories and the east."

"Will all due respect Mr President, you've been dodging every question on Eastern Esquarium so far. Namor condemns the CIA's coups in Ocidenia does it not? If so, why are you shaking the hand of the man who ordered them? Surely, as a matter of principle, you should not be talking about closer ties with Luziyca after what has occurred? Do you consider trade more valuable than human life?"

He then said, partly to the reporter, partly to Fu Wen, "I haven't answered those questions because you keep directing them to Mr. Fu, so don't be surprised if I don't answer the questions directed to this fine man," pointing to the President-General, "and not myself."

"Excuse me, I'm Zhou Shen-Ying from the FDRQ Ministry of Information, if I may have a question directed at both Mr. Fu and Mr. Shjoraski... there's a growing sentiment in Qianrong that Luziyca has totally abandoned Qianrong, and that Namor remains an enemy to the country. Do you believe that the actions you plan to enact would end these negative perceptions, and save Qianrong's alliance with Luziyca and detente with Namor? Are you worried that there might be distrust or backlash from the Qianrongese, or do you expect everything to go over smoothly?"

"I feel that we will try to save the country, even if it means removing the nukes from Qianrong and activating LAFB Yucheng to help find the Chancellor. However, I understand," Shjoraski stated, "that we have had significant backlash. We are a bit worried that many ordinary Qianrongese will feel that we have betrayed and abandoned them, and that I personally feel that it has an ice cube's chance in hell of going over smoothly."

Corrallos was fuming. Angry as hell, he shot up out of his seat to grill the President-General.

"To the President-General,"

Corrallos paused for a second to get his bearings straight and try to remember how to be polite, though it probably wouldn't be much help at all. At least remember how to do your job, Joncarlo...

"To the President-General, are you implying that the concerns of my people and all the people of Eastern Esquarium need to take a back seat to your neighbour issues? Are you implying that human lives on our side of the ocean are somehow not a concern to Namo? Or is Namo neglecting to think about those lives at all?

"And to sinyoro Shjoraski, because maissro Fu so kindly asked, what exactly is Bethlehem's take on the situation in Ocidenia and Eastern Esquarium at large?"

---

(OOC note: The use of the word maissro here directly reflects the British use of the word "master" as relating to addressing children, implying that Fu Wen is one.)

Shjoraski was relieved, that finally, someone was asking him about the situation, not Mr. Fu Wen, as if he felt that Shjoraski was being treated like a child by the Britannian reporter.

Thus, Shjoraski replied, "In regards to Ocidenia, we have full confidence that President Simeon Brozhav shall negotiate a fair and acceptable settlement to the separatists in both the northern and southern regions of Ocidenia, and we hope that a stable democratic regime will be put into place by the end of the year, so that Ocidenia can finally begin recovering from what they have gone through since their economic collapse leading up to this revolution in Ocidenia, which the CIA, admittedly, played a minor role, mainly in funding."

"As for Eastern Esquarium," Shjoraski has replied, "it is rather difficult to describe such a huge region with varying cultures, nations, and ideologies, but besides Ocidenia and some other areas, so far, so good."

When Shjoraski listened to Fu's reply, Shjoraski chuckled at the Kofeiya bit, but when he heard "But I know---and I hope some of you know---that there is one way not to do it. That's showing Shjoraski the door and refusing to talk with Luziycan officials," Shjoraski immediately applauded and began thinking of praising him. He kept listening on, and when the answer ended...

Shjoraski said to Fu Wen, "Mr. Fu Wen, that was an excellent comment, and you said it much better than I could. Well done, sir."

[Britanno]

He then said, partly to the reporter, partly to Fu Wen, "I haven't answered those questions because you keep directing them to Mr. Fu, so don't be surprised if I don't answer the questions directed to this fine man," pointing to the President-General, "and not myself."

"Mr Shjoraski, the question was directed at the President of Namor," the reporter replied rather bemused.

[Luziyca]

He then said, partly to the reporter, partly to Fu Wen, "I haven't answered those questions because you keep directing them to Mr. Fu, so don't be surprised if I don't answer the questions directed to this fine man," pointing to the President-General, "and not myself."

"Mr Shjoraski, the question was directed at the President of Namor," the reporter replied rather bemused.

"Understood," Shjoraski replied.

[West Cedarbrook]

The stocky, bespectacled correspondent for the Daily Messenger lept up:

"Jim Kaslowsky, Holon Daily Messenger. Mr. President-General, we've heard a carrot and stick approach about the Qianrong situation, but what enforcement mechanisms do you have for guaranteeing free navigation in the East Namor Sea? Have you and President Shojarski discussed this? Has there been buy-in from Ainin for any plans? Has there been a positive reaction from other neighboring powers? From WETO? Shippers and exporters back home want some guidance here".

Jim shot Zhou Shen-Ying a sideways glance as he sat down.