Summit of North American Leaders (AMW Only)

[Chrinthanium]

Imperial Palace

"I will alert the waiters to keep him at an appropriate level of soberiety." responded Emperor Nathaniel. He was very pleased that the Shogun agreed to his invitation. While some people may see sitting with the Emperor as a simple diplomatic gesture, in Chrinthanium, those seats symbolized high honor. Arriving Senators and Governors would scoff at the seating arrangements due to their proximity to the Emperor and the apparent snub of the Imperial elite.

"President McDonald," spoke Nathaniel, "I as well must limit my alcoholic intake. I remember my days in the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. I spent many of morning cursing myself for the events of the previous evening. I dare not go down that road lest we decided business is over and it's time to party!"

The Emperor found President McDonald to be nothing like his preconceived notion of a Wesleyopian. He quite enjoyed the Presidents seeminly honest responses and genuine emotions. He believed that the Wesleyopian delegation would be rather insistant that their demands be met while stalling any motion that would cause them to compromise. The Emperor was beginning to get the idea that President McDonald would be open to compromise. He understood that, like the other leaders, they wanted their national interests protected.

-------------------------------

Imperial Airport

The two guards who had finally seen action decided to ask the men a few questions. The men were taken to a room in the lower levels of the airport where all people undergoing questioning were taken. The room had white walls, white flourescent lights, a wooden desk with a wooden chair behind it, and a few wooden chairs in front of it. On the wall behind the chair was a sign that read, "Airport Security Chief."

Chief Grant Dewey was an older man with a bald head who seemed to enjoy his job a little too much as he walked into the room and gave the two men a look of self-appointed authority.

"Gentlemen, I have to ask why you thought it would be appropriate to carry a firearm within an Imperial building?" he asked smugly. "Under Chrinthanian Law, the carrying of a firearm within the confines of an Imperial building shall constitute an offense against the Imperial Crown and is punishable by at least one year in a state prison. Please, explain yourself." Chief Dewey sat back in his chair as if he had just captured criminal masterminds.

Meanwhile, back on the tarmac, the motorcade began heading for the Palace. Minister Norwich, whose frail hand shook the cup of coffee it was holding so much that it nearly spilled onto his trench coat, started speaking to the Prince and PM Mainwaring, "The Emperor is sorry that no Imperial member was here to greet you. However, he believed that, since I am the Minister of Agriculture and His Majesty's Deputy Prime Minister, that I should be the one to greet you."

In Chrinthanium, the duties of the Prime Minister were carried out by the Emperor himself. There was no official Prime Minister, just the title of which was given to the Emperor. Some even joked that Norwich was Deputy Emperor. And, in many ways, they would be correct. Minister Norwich could speak for the Emperor at times when the Emperor was away. Norwich was the highest-ranking elected member of the Imperial Government. Unfortunately, he had a tendency to prattle on a bit.

"I've been blessed to serve the Imperial crown as Minister of Agriculture for the last 51 years." Norwich interjected as he sipped his coffee, "I've served 3 emperors now. However, I am not seeking re-election next year. My arthritis is getting the better of me. I need thick spectacles in order to read, and I just cannot get around like I used to."

The young Naval Lieutenant that accompanied Minister Norwich looked over at PM Mainwaring and cracked a half smile as the elderly man continued his conversation.

"If you have any questions about His Majestys government, or the Emperor himself, please feel free to ask me. I've known Emperor Nathaniel since the day he was born." stated Norwich.

[Chrinthanium]

The Californian delegation was quite right in taking care when meeting with the Joesen... across the Pacific in Sithin, the meeting in Omaha was being watched carefully by government officials. As with the meeting in Bermuda that had produced the NATO treaty some months before, Spyr found itself outside the geographic limits of an assembly which might touch significantly upon its interests... it was not the best of situations, but certainly one that the People’s Republic had gotten used to over some fifty years of half-coordination with London in their mutual opposition to Kyiv. It was always best to let everyone discuss what they would, and so long as nothing disastrous emerged any issues could be ironed out later in bilateral chats between middle-level diplomats.

The decision to accept the Joesen Shogun at the summit came as an unpleasant surprise to the Spyrans. Sithin had long ago come to accept the Shogunate’s presence on the international stage... the two powers shared a presence on the international data network, and limited trade occurred... but the scars from Yashiman atrocities during their years of occupation still ran deep, and their continued presence on the Asian mainland was ample salt on that wound. That Omaha would not only welcome the head of the Joesen junta, but call him to sit at the head table with the assembled North American heads of state, was a grave insult indeed.

Official response was limited to a quietly critical communiqué sent to Emperor Nathaniel, questioning the choice to open a forum of American notables to the head of ‘a despotic and violent regime’ from East Asia. The Spyran press was more aggressively critical, both of Chrinthanium and of the fact that Spyran officials had failed to either prevent the Shogun from being welcomed or to match him with delegates of their own. The offices of the Diplomatic Committee and the Chrinthani embassy would certainly see significant public protest, but violence ought not be excessive... the most ferocious anti-Yashiman feelings amongst the Spyran populace were reserved for the Christ-Emperor and his fallen kingdom, rather than the wayward remnants south of the Liao.

Foreign Minister Jon Latham, who had yet to arrive at the summit, received the communication from Spyr. The communique troubled Latham. He knew that Spyr would be highly critical of any attempt to talk with the Joesen government without equally speaking to Spyr.

"My fears come true. I must make sure that Spyr does not take more offense to the situation. We must not make enemies where there once were none.," Latham thought to himself. "the Spyrans are upset at the Emperors decision to allow the Joesens to attend. That little twit could be getting us into something that we could soon regret. The worst thing to ever happen to the Empire was Nicholas V dying from that damn heart attack. He knew you couldn't invite one without the other. He knew you had to cater to both sides. Nathaniel, on the other hand, is just a kid. What does he know about international politics. He's never even been out of the damn Empire!"

Latham began typing a reply:


---------------------------------

To: Chairman Sutrelin, General Secretary Harsk
From: Jon Latham, Foreign Minister of Chrinthanium

I received your communication and am deeply saddened by the events transpiring between our nations. While I agree that the Emperor needs to take into considerations the actions of the Yashimens, the Emperor is still very young and unlearned in the history of the East. I send you my deepest apologies for this breach of trust between our nations.

I would like to ask you if you would be willing to allow the Emperor himself to visit Spyr at your convenience on a mission of good will. This trip would hopefully strengthen our relationship, and open up better lines of communication between Omaha and Sithin. I eagerly await your response and hope that you accept our request.

Sincerely

Jon F. Latham
Foreign Ministry
Imperial Federation of Chrinthanium

----------------

After writing the communication, he printed it out and had it wired to the Spyran government. His only problem was committing the Emperor to a diplomatic trip without prior concent of the Emperor.

[Acadzia]

King Jordanus had agreed to the Emperor's polite request. He had offered Bridget a quick kiss, and had then taken his seat at the head table with the motley collection of statesmen. Nothing short of geographical proximity and economics could have brought such a collection of diverse men together over pleasantries and spirits and food. Never in a thousand years would Jordanus had thought he'd be dining beside a homosexual emperor, the head of an East Asian junta, the president of California (one of the most morally-relativist, liberal nations in the world), and the President of Wesleyopia, the nation that, under its former dictatorial rulers, was a subject of fear and headaches for Acadzian diplomats.

Jordanus did not think these thoughts derisively of his table-mates. He knew that they were, like him, men. Prone to the corruption of the world as men were, and as politicians especially were. Victims of their own circumstances and their own sin nature, as all were.

He chuckled at the Shogun's admission of his general's predilection for indulging in alcohol. He was shocked, however, when both McDonald and the Emperor admitted that they, too, needed to be babysat. His smile slipped off his face, but remained cordial as he asked the servers to bring him an ale. "Whichever you would recommend. Honestly!" He had added the last word as he realized, belatedly, that he was a king. Surely this poor servant hadn't expected to have to choose an ale for a king. "Seriously," he said to the mortified servant, "Get me your favourite." He smiled broadly at the Chrinthani server, who seemed to relax at last.

Jordanus wished that Prime Minister Akwasi could have made it to this event. At 60 years old, Akwasi was a force to be reckoned with. Or so Jordanus thought; he virtually idolized the man. Skinny as a rake, with gentle eyes and a calm, baritone voice, Akwasi was formerly the Archbishop of New York, before his entrance into politics about nine years ago. Much beloved in Acadzia, Akwasi would have also probably done a better job here; much better than Jordanus was doing. He felt woefully undereducated and inadequate as he tried to recall all he could about the nations whose leaders he now dined with.

Oh well, mused the Acadzian king, I'll just have to do my best. He would defend Acadzia's interests and honour as best he could. He would do his duty, as he always had.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Dr. Elijah Krozenberg sat flanked between probably the two most dangerous women in the room, for him anyway. His loving yet stern wife Miriam on one side, and Queen Bridget of Acadzia on the other. He wished the latter had of decided to join her husband at the Emperor's head table, though she had resigned to sit. Which, in some ways, was probably for the best. He saw no other queens or empresses or First Ladies up at the head table. Then again, perhaps these other North Americans had none?

Still, Eli wished that Queen Bridget wasn't sitting next to him, so he could vent to Miriam about the king's actions.

That stupid, insolent boy! he practically roared the thoughts in his head, Acadzia is a constitutional monarchy, you idiot! I should be sitting there, not you. Sure, the Crown had the power to veto almost anything parliament passed, but for the most part, Crown and Parliament had had a cordial relationship. The Crown had, more often than not, kept their hands off things unless they felt it really necessary. But now Jordanus, knowingly or not, was violating that precedent by taking his seat with these heads of state and leaving the God damned Deputy-Prime Minister sitting at the table with the women, the generals, the aides.

Eli stood up, wiped his mouth with a napkin, and paced out of the hall. He did so as politely as possible. Unlike the king, he wouldn't overstep his boundaries.

[Iansisle]

Jordanus wasn't the only one with a secret smirk at the apparent lack of willpower rife amongst North America's leaders. President Ewaa had spent most of his college years -- an increasingly distant memory -- completely sloshed. Years later, with much time to reflect on it, he now only drank in moderation, although he often boasted of his "liver of steel." True, that was mostly possible by appearing to drink more than he actually did, but the president had found that in San Diego politics it was usually better for people to think you were more intoxicated than you actually were.

--------

Cat saw Krozenberg, whom she recognized from the briefings on the flight over, get up from the table. She was sitting next to Barth who, truth be told, was quite annoying, the way he carried on about how insulting it was for the president (not even an actual member of the government!) to be the one making crucial contacts with foreign leaders. After Krozenberg had excused himself, she stood, patted Barth on the shoulder, and made up some lie or another about having to go to the restroom. The atmosphere at the table was little short of vitriolic, between having to snub the Joesen generals and listen to Barth, and she hoped that Krozenberg might be able to have a good laugh with her about it.

Little did she know, however, that he was getting up from the table because he was helping to create that very atmosphere!

[The RSU]

General Akutagawa arched an eyebrow as yet another dignitary left the table. He craned his neck around to face General Igawa, who was musing over his dissapointingly small glass of wine, whispering in his ear:

"It seems our American cousins cannot hold their alcohol." The High Commissioner murmured an assent. So far, the atmosphere of the table had been icily awkward. A majority of the their fellow occupants seemed irked at being unable to attend the Emperor's table, gloomily slouching and twirling their wine glasses. The Californian delegation seemed especially non-cordial, although General Akutagawa recognised the political significance of this - an aspect which had completely evaded his colleague.

For his part, General Igawa was equally bemused. He had forgotten that most premiers attending a summit followed an age-old tradition; always bring supporting staff less charismatic than yourself. So it was that he was saddled with a collection of tolerable yet disinteresting stiffs, and even when he sought refuge in alcohol, he was snubbed; the waiters seemed to have suddenly become very evasive.

Stifling a sigh, the High Commissioner took another sip of his inadequate supply of wine and made a personal note to stop by at Omaha airport's off-duty store on the way home.

---

On the main table, the mood could not have been anymore different.

The Shogun found his fellow heads of state to be an eclectic combination of characters, and even amiable. The presence of the 21-year old Emperor alleviated Sugata's concerns over not being taken seriously due to his youthful appearance, although he personally noted - with mild disdain - that Nathaniel IV was a few inches taller than him. While browsing a dossier on the Chrinthani Emperor on the journey to Omaha, he had been surprised to learn that the Emperor was homosexual - openly, even. Considering the large Catholic population in the Imperial Federation, the Shogun found it bizarre that Nathaniel's lifestyle choice was not considered a 'dirty secret' for the entire nation.

Sugata dismissed such thoughts. Now was the time for the most integral aspect of foreign affairs; pointless small-talk. The young Emperor seemed a prime target.

"I am afraid you will have to forgive my ignorance, Your Majesty," He remarked, turning to face him. "I am unfamiliar with the history of the Imperial Federation. Such are the circumstances of our existence, we Joesen are mainly pre-occupied with our immediate surroundings; a trait we would do well to dispossess. From what I gather from the Yashimese Christ-Emperor, was the Imperial Federation of Chrinthani not once an autocracy?"

[Acadzia]

Queen Bridget of Acadzia longed to be somewhere else. With the departure of her husband to the Emperor's table, and then Dr. Krozenberg's sudden exit from the hall, the only person she knew was Mrs. Miriam Krozenberg. Miriam was a delightful lady, of course, but this hall was a hotbed of political activity, and Queen Bridget was stuck discussing the niceties of domestic life with the Foreign Affairs Minister's wife.

"And how are your children, Your Majesty? I haven't read much about them in the papers..." Miriam asked, sliding her food around on her plate with her fork. She rested her chin in her hand and beamed at the Acadzian queen.

Queen Bridget loved her children, of course, just as a mother should. But doting over them in an environment such as this made her stomach churn. Were the hardcore conservatives right, then? Was their no place for women in politics? Did the possession of ovaries sentence one to a life of comparing statistics on their children. The Queen wished that Krozenberg, as well as the Californian woman, hadn't departed the table; she wanted to now.

Sighing deeply, she regained her queenly poise. "My children are doing wonderfully, or so my mother-in-law the Queen-Mother tells me. It is usually her or my father, or both of them together, who spend the most time with our children as of late. I daresay that after this event, I'll be staying indoors with them for quite some time... Prince Gideon received his first pellet rifle last week, and my father tells me he's a good shot for a four year old. Princess Meera is beginning to walk. Or so I hear."

Miriam gasped, "Oh, that is a sin that you're missing all of that! Well, do get yourself home with them after this!"

Bridget nodded and returned to her food. A flustered servant whisked past her, setting a glass of champagne down beside her. "I'm sorry," she called after him, "I didn't order this, I'm... pregnant," she finished. He was long out of earshot.

She soon realized that the unwanted alcohol could have some use. Perhaps she could use it to strike up a conversation with someone a bit more interesting... Across the table, a Joesen general finished sipping away at a small, barely-filled glass. The waiter that had served her hadn't heard his request for a refill. "General Igawa, I presume? I am Queen Bridget Nicholas, wife of King Jordanus VIII of Acadzia. It is a pleasure to meet you." Smiling at him, she offered him the wine...

------------------------------------------------

Dr. Krozenberg stood off to the side of the hall's antechamber, trying to keep his voice down as he vented to Prime Minister Akwasi. "How can you possible defend this breach of decorum, Peter? The king has very few powers as per the Constitution Act of 1867, and you'd think he'd know that. At most, he can only engage in small-talk... What do you mean it was on your advice that he take a more dominant role?! You don't think I can handle it?... You know what, fine. You and His Majesty the king can play your little games..."

The sound of a woman clearing her throat distracted him. It was Catrina Mendez, some high-ranking Californian official, he recognized. Hurriedly, he cordially said into the phone, "And thank you, Mr. Prime Minister. I'll be sure to bring you back a souvenir." Hundreds of miles away, in New York, Peter Akwasi hung up his phone with a confused expression on his face.

"Hello, Ms. Mendez. Dr. Elijah Krozenberg, Acadzian Foreign Affairs Minister," he extended a hand, "To what do I owe the pleasure?"

[Chrinthanium]

Andrea Thornton began to feel out numbered at the Imperial table as the "boys club," as she deemed it in her mind, was in full swing. She politely excused herself from the table and made her way to Mrs. Krozenberg.

"Mrs Krozenberg," she said, "may I sit with you." Upon receiving permission, she started speaking, "You know, when my husband, the late Emperor Nicholas V, would have diplomatic events, I would often be given the duty to entertain the ladies in small talk. Nathaniel, on the other hand, is more apt to delegate that job out to his brothers, who are fully entrenched in the boys club right now. Being a female member of a ruling family can be quite lonely sometimes."

Meanwhile, back the the Imperial table, the Emperor was enjoying his bourbon and cola. "Shogun, we were a complete autocracy in the past. After World War 2, Nicholas III reconveined the Senate and allowed the provinces more control over themselves in an attempt to give people more say in their government. An unforseen side effect of this has been more solidification of the Emperors power. It would appear that people are willing to accept autocratic rule as long as they can have some opinion in their government that is not only heard, but sometimes implimented."

"I have spent a lot of time making apologies for past Imperial behavior. Behavior that, if we had this current system of balance between the people and their Emperor, might never have occured. Sometimes it is prudent to make sure the Emperor remembers to place the values and ideas of his people ahead of his own personal goals. That's the duty of the Senate and Provincial governments."

"We believe that, despite the success of elected heads of state in democracies, someone needs to be in clear control without the interferrence of running for election. Someone has to not worry about keeping their job and actually do their job. That's my position. To carry out the executive powers of government without the trappings of an electoral process. The policies of a republican democracy can change after every election. This can cause those nations to sometimes be viewed as erratic. In the Imperial Federation, our policies remain constant over many, many, many years. Stability in an otherwise crazy world."

[The RSU]

The High Commissioner glanced up from his musings, offering a wide smile.

"A pleasure, Your Highness." He gratefully accepted the glass, continuing: "My utmost gratitude to Your Highness. It seems that my requests for replenishment have fallen on death ears. I fear my superior may have advised the staff to keep a watchful eye on me." Taking a considerable drink from the glass, he placed it down gently.

"Since you have been considerate enough to introduce yourself, I shall return the favour;" He held out his hand. "You were wise in your presumption, Your Highness. I am indeed General Hisashi Igawa, High Commissioner for State Economic Planning. The fine fellow next to me is General Hiroshi Akutagawa, Executive Secretary for Foreign Affairs and a man far more qualified to be here than I." General Akutagawa nodded respectfully to the Acadzian Queen.

"Now, I'm not one for world affairs," General Igawa continued, in a fine contendor for the understatement of the century. "But the Kingdom of Acadzia is located to the north-east, is it not? It has a rich history, or so I hear."

---

The Shogun nodded respectfully as the Emperor spoke.

"I share His Majesty's sentiments," He stated as soon as Nathaniel had finished, "although - if I am to be blunt - I must admit that the Joesen people have no great love for the concept of a monarchy. Hereditary ascension has lost favour as a method of succession. You must understand, Your Majesty; the last Joesen monarch, the Yashimese Christ-Emperor Meiwa, drove our nation into a disastrous conflict which culminated in the collapse of the Confederacy." Not meaning to snub the Emperor, he added:

"Each to their own, of course. I would not dare to be as presumptious to advocate any one system over another. And indeed, from what I gather, the Imperial Federation is a thriving and prosperous state."

[Chrinthanium]

"I certainly understand that different governmental systems are derived from the experiences of those people within in them and the histories that have effected them." said the Emperor, "What works in Chrinthanium may not in Joesen, or California."

"I think, however, we're always so focused on those differences as well as preconceived notions -- stereotypes, if you will-- of those not like ourselves instead of finding the common ground between us. Take California, for instance. They, about 100 years ago, would have never met with any Imperial diplomat. However, we're all neighbors whose histories are interlocked. We have an obligation to our respective nations to work along side each other to promote the common good of the world."

"The past is the past. Forgiveness is an act, not a feeling. We must make ammends, and then look to the future. No one nation can be unaffected anymore by the events in the world as we're moving towards a globalization the likes of which have never been attempted before. California understands that, we understand that. In fact, their internet idea is a promising aspect of that globalization."

The Emperors tone changed from promising to somber, "Four months ago, my father was taken, suddenly, and his dream was a world in which we could all work together in spite of our differences. He instilled that virtue in myself, and my brothers."

The Emperor choked back a sigh and a tear in an extremely rare public display of sadness. He never spoke much about his father. The sadness and heartache hasn't subsided yet. He believed that it was his duty to continue the work that Nicholas V began.

[Iansisle]

"Hello, Ms. Mendez. Dr. Elijah Krozenberg, Acadzian Foreign Affairs Minister," he extended a hand, "To what do I owe the pleasure?"

"I see you've been briefed as well as I have, Dr Krozenberg," said Cat, shaking the offered hand. "I just saw you slip away from the table and had to admit I was jealous at your escape. These official state dinners are to me rather like a well-written program: set them in motion, let those with the predilection to schmooze do so, and stand back."

---------------------

The talk about California in relation to warming relations with Joesen had President Ewaa nervous. He didn't want to interrupt and insist the shogun apologize for atrocities half a century old, but neither did he wish to allow Spyr to think that San Diego placed such low regards on the suffering of its nationals! Silence would be the best option -- but the Emperor had mentioned his country explicitly! Slighting the Emperor could be the first step in tearing down a relationship that had been slowly building over the past fifty years. Fortunately, a tear or two gave Ewaa an idea. He raised his glass.

"A toast, then -- to the memory of the Emperor Nicholas!"

[Chrinthanium]

Emperor Nathaniel stood up and raised his glass. "To my dear father!" he said as the glasses clanked in memory of his father. The Emperor smiled at President Ewaa. It was the first time that anyone outside of the Empire even muttered his fathers name. He appreciated the gesture of the Californian president.

The Emperor, who had never actually been outside the Empire, had read of the attrocities committed by the Yashimese. His entire speech was laiden with hints to the Shogun about amending the past, and working together for a brighter tomorrow. Don't get him wrong, the Emperor believed whole-heartedly in everything he stated. He was, after all, Emperor of Chrinthanium, a nation that had some sort of military altercation with just about every one of its neighbors. Now those neighbors were seated at his banquet table.

The Emperors younger brother, Imperial Prince Ryan, excused himself from the table after the toast. He knew that the conversations beginning to take place didn't require his presence. He motioned to the youngest Imperial Prince, Peter, to follow suit. The pair approached the Joesen delegation.

"I beg pardon for the interuption, but we've not had the chance to formally introduce ourselves. I am the Emperors younger brother, Ryan and this is our youngest brother, Peter."

His Highness motioned to a waiter and said, "bring us a bottle of your finest champagne, if you don't mind." The waiter nodded in acknowledgement and quickly scurried off to find the appropriate bottle.

[The RSU]

The Shogun raised his glass, parroting the toast.

President Ewaa seems a little on edge, he mused. The Californian premier had been suspiciously quiet, and there was something rather desperate behind the inpromptu toast. Either the President was of a nervous disposition - an idea that Sugata rejected almost immediately - or he was unnerved by the presence of either the Shogun or the Emperor.

Downing his glass, he made a personal note to address the issue after the meal.

---

No sooner had General Igawa been addressed by the Acadzian Queen than yet another delegate was speaking to him. Turning around, he was surprised by his identity; the Emperor's sibling. He was quite amused by the attention he was receiving. Surely no one would be interested in speaking to the High Commissioner - the holder of a post which had become increasingly redundant with the progressive economic policies instituted by the late Shogun Sakamoto - when the Shogun himself was in attendance?

"A pleasure, Your Majesty." General Igawa noted the request for champagne with great interest. "I am General Hisashi Igawa, High Commissioner for State Economic Planning. And this," He waved a hand towards his fellow General, "is General Hiroshi Akutagawa, Executive Secretary for Foreign Affairs." As before, the Executive Foreign Secretary nodded politely.

"I must say, I am honoured that His Majesty and His brother have chosen to speak to us when the Shogun himself is present."

[Wesleyopia]

McDonald occupied himself with his food for the first part of the conversation. It was surprisingly delicious for food not made in Wesleyopia, but then again everything was a surprise outside Wesleyopia. The people may speak English, but they don't really speak the same language, or listen to exactly the same music, or worship exactly the same God. The food was similar, but different, and delitefully so. He wanted, however, to engage in some small talk.

"I was wondering, if it isn't too much of a taboo topic, if you've had any expecially embarrassing moments in office?" inquired President McDonald. "Not to 'brag', but I've had several. One time I went to Parliament in '94 with my shirt on backwards, that was one for the papers. Not to mention, the rather disgusting incident I had with the Supreme Minister of Coal and Mining back in '98. I'm glad the Minister is out of the job, he was a real pain.

"This all makes me happy I've aged gracefully. Hehehe!"

President McDonald could be character sometimes. It made him a controversial character in Wesleyopia, where people either loved him or hated him. He was many times characterized by his opponents as stubborn, greedy, and comically short. He was short, and hated that fact, but he wasn't greedy(at least usually). He was, however, stubborn, not excessively, but stubborn about certain things.

[Chrinthanium]

"General," responded Peter, "while the Shogun commands our respect, so do you by your attendence. It is an unexceptable practice for us to ignore our friends from across the Pacific. We are grateful that you've chosen to attend."

He continued, "Besides, we've no real power within the Empire which would warrent our attendence at the Imperial table. Just think of us as friends."

Ryan nodded in agreement as he interjected, "Sometime, at these sort of functions, we're merely used as greeters. This time, however, the Emperor is handling that himself. We're actually cuirous about Joesen, and its culture."

-----------------------------------

"President McDonald," answered the Emperor, "I had a situation the first time I spoke in public as Emperor. I was walking towards the front of the stage and lost my balance and fell on top of a reporter who was in the front of the crowd."

Nathaniel found the Wesleyopians more personable than the Californians. For some unknown reason, Ewaa seemed apprehensive. Perhaps it was being in Omaha, or it was the attendence of the Shogun.

"President Ewaa, how are you enjoying your evening so far?" asked the Emperor while his eyes conveyed a message of are you alright.

[The RSU]

"Curious, you say?" General Igawa replied. "I have no idea where to begin. Joesen culture is really rather similar to Yashimese culture, if you are familiar with it. However, it is most definitely not identical. We Joesen are not as staunchly religious as our brothers across the sea, nor as extreme. The Joesen Self-Defence Forces occupy a position of great respect in Joesen, leading to some malicious individuals to slander us as 'militaristic'. Our national religion is the Order of the Supreme Triumvirate, a form of Yashimese Catholicism." The High Commissioner knocked back his glass of wine.

"Or perhaps you are more interested in history and current affairs? Our nation is rich in both."

[Iansisle]

Ewaa smiled. He knew how to put on a face, if nothing else, and tipped his now-drained glass towards the Emperor.

"I'm just overcome with the beauty of the city and the palace, your Majesty," he said. "Although, if we are to hold another of these meetings in the winter, I might be willing to host it back home!"

[Chrinthanium]

"Omaha can get quite chilly in winter, Mr. President. I shall have to make it to California sometime. I've always wanted to learn how to surf." Said Nathaniel with a smile. "However, have you ever been snowboarding? My brothers and I often head to Colorado in winter for snowboarding and skiing."

The Emperor motioned to the waiter to bring the table more drinks as they had their friendly discussions. Scanning the room, he'd noticed people beginning to mingle a bit.

A middle-aged man with a goatee, bald head and three piece suit entered the room with a freshly-lit cigarette in his mouth. Following him were ten or so well-dressed men. Their faces showed some dismay when they spotted the Emperors table already seated with representatives from around the continent. The contingent apprpoached the Emperor and his table.

"Latham," said the Emperor with a smile. "I see you've brought the Senate leadership this evening."

"Good evening, Your Majesty." Answered Foreign Minister Jon Latham as he removed the cigarette from his mouth, "Those governors wishing to attend should be here in a little while. Gov. Pruitt of Nebraska stated that she was dealing with the blizzard in the western part of the state and would be a few minutes later than the other governors."

Looking back at his international guests, the Emperor make introductions. There was Sen. Richard Hart from Michigan, Sen. Molly Hatch from Kansas, Sen. Tyrone Brock from Illinois, Sen. Bill Clinton from Arkansas, Sen. Ian Nolan from Minnesota, Sen. Paul Langley from Nebraska, Sen. Tracy Hamm from North Dakota, Sen. Jack Webb from South Dakota, Sen. Deacon James from Colorado and Sen. Mike Ripley from Utah.

Governors from Nebraska, Ohio, Indiana, Walshington and Michigan would arrive a few minutes later.

---------------------

"General Igawa," answered Ryan, "we're quite interested in your history."

[The RSU]

The High Commissioner leaned back in his chair.

"Well, where to begin..." He mused, adjusting his peak cap. "At the beginning of course." General Akutagawa, predicting a long-winded explanation, closed his eyes.

"The area that would become Joesen was annexed by the Holy Yashimese Empire in 1907. The Yashimese occupied the eastern seaboard, easily overwhelming the backwards native population. The occupation did not go without notice, and there was a great clamour in the West for the Empire to withdraw. The British Empire, who was a friend of Yashima at this time, argued on her behalf. This was probably motivated by the fact that the Great War was lurking ever closer, and Britain had no desire to be embroiled in two simultaneous conflicts in both the West and East."

"But I digress. By the end of it all, the Yashimese tried to gain legitimacy for their holdings by granting them 'independence'. The occupied territories were organised into the Confederation of Guangzhou; a Yashimese client state in all but name. The Governor-General was still appointed by the Christ-Emperor and the Imperial Yashimese Army held the highest authority in the territories."

"Yashima, of course, set about industrialising the agrarian provinces." His voice took on a darker tone. "It was at this point that the first of the racial purity laws was introduced. They were all eventually incorporated into a single document, the Preservation of Yashimese Superiority Act. Non-Yashimese citizens were forbidden to marry Yashimese ones and, eventually, they were driven into slum housing. Disease - and crime - was rife in these areas; by the 1930s, Yashimese citizens outnumbered ethnic natives."

"I am sure you already know about the Pacific War. The Confederacy, loyal lapdog as she was, duly followed the Empire into war." He sighed sardonically. "You can guess how that turned out. As soon as the tide turned against Yashima, the Confederacy was doomed. By the time the Christ-Emperor Meiwa signed a peace treaty with the British Empire - old friends turned enemies - we had lost the entire fleet and the army was on the run. The Confederacy collapsed not soon after that."

"And then came the Republican period," He muttered lowly, clearly exhibiting his distate. "And the Socialists. The only good thing they ever did for this country was give it its name; in 1945, the Joesen Social Republic was proclaimed. What followed were all the usual negatives of a Socialist regime. Weak governance, populist pandering and - of course - reverse discrimination. The PPP-JDP governing coalition decided that the only way to reverse the horrors of the past regime was to engage in discrimination themselves. Such hypocrisy!"

"We suffered under the insuffrable for 22 years. By then, the government's economic policies came back to haunt them; the Joesen economy was brought to its knees by a crippling recession. The Joesen Democratic Party abandoned the coalition, leaving a minority government which could not even get its laws passed through the Federal Assembly."

"The Yashimese National Front - the political party to which the Shogun adheres - came to the fore during these dark times." The High Commissioner's voice took on an almost reverential tone. "Its leader, Lieutenant Kei Sato, realised that Joesen democracy had failed. It became necessary for drastic action to be taken. Thus, he alligned himself with General Li Lisan - another disgruntled officer - and, in 1967, he seized control of Joesen in a bloodless coup d'etat."

"It was Lieutenant Sato - later General Sato - who laid the framework for our nation. His Interim Executive Council would evolve to become our Joesen Executive National Development Committee. His reformed Armed Forces would be readopted as the Joesen Self-Defence Forces. The People's Republic of Joesen, the new nation he proclaimed from the ashes of the Joesen Social Republic, was the predecessor of the Joesen Shogunate." The High Commissioner smiled for a moment, taking another drink from his wine glass.

"But I fear I must stop, 'lest I be charged with regicide by boring you to death, Your Highness."

[Chrinthanium]

At the Imperial table, Latham and the attending senators seemed to clamour to shake hands with the Emperor. The side effect of being a young Emperor was his rock-star popularity within the Empire. The international community may have not viewed him through such rose-colored glasses, but in Chrinthanium, he was the biggest celebrity to hit the scene since Dean Martin made his debute in Columbus, OH in the 50's. Women wanted him, men wanted to be him, politicians need only to been seen with him to get a bump in the polls (known in the media as the Nathaniel bump). As hands were shaken, the palace photographer snapped numerous photos.

"It's a pleasure to see you again, senator." He would respond until everyone was greeted with his trademark smile. Make no mistake, whether or not the elected leaders of the Imperial Federation agreed with his policies, he was still the Emperor. Nathaniel was a force to be reckoned with in the Empire and they knew it well.

Those who were elected leaders of democratic republics may not have realized just how much star power the Emperor actually had in the Empire. Maybe, just maybe, as the Emperor became an international player, he could use his sway with the Imperial citizens and politicians to accomplish the goals he wished to achieve.

[Acadzia]

Dr. Elijah Krozenberg

Dr. Krozenberg, ever the staunch and dutiful servant, was rather taken aback by Cat Mendez's forwardness. Then again, these Californians were liberal about everything, even in the mind of a secular Jew like himself. He wondered why he expected their view of international diplomacy to be any less liberalized and relaxed.

He chuckled at her comment and replied, "Well, what can I say? I guess I'm skilled at the art of weaseling my way out of things; must be the politician in me." Then, as an afterthought, he asked, "Tell me, does President Ewaa share your sentiments towards these kind of things?"

Queen Bridget

The Acadzian queen was enjoying herself immensely. The handsome young Chrinthani royals were certainly polite and personable for children, er, young men of their age. Indeed, a smile crept across her face as she remembered herself at 17. It had been her rebellious phase, and although comparatively brief (and tame) to some teenager's, it was a more embarrassing point in her life. Indeed, she began to blush as she remembered her shaved head and black make-up...

Though if her brief spate of rebelliousness didn't make her grin, the irony of this whole situation did. God certainly worked in mysterious ways. For her she was, the wife of a Catholic king - a king now called Fidei defensor of all Catholicism by Pope Leo XIV, no less - and she was rubbing elbows with the Heir Apparent of a staunchly Protestant and secular nation and with a Yashimese "Catholic" High Commissioner. She felt like she was the subject of a joke.

The men, despite their heretical beliefs, were pleasant enough though, and she listened to the conversation with genuine interest, offering a comment or compliment where appropriate.

King Jordanus Nicholas VIII

An interesting alchemy had occurred in the soul of King Jordanus; the combination of the delectable Chrinthani ale and the retelling of his table fellows' public gaffs had him in good spirits.

When the delegation of Imperial statesmen approached the table, Jordanus thought he understood exactly what was going on. A young, handsome emperor, controversial but not too much. Yes, this was exactly the type of person who attracted sycophants, those looking for a boost in the polls or a little patronage. Jordanus snorted derisively as they lined up like pigs at the trough to shake the Emperor's hand, all the while flash photography exploded around the room. Jordanus understood the importance of the press, but sometimes they could be almost inhuman in their fervor.

King Jordanus didn't play into the democratic process the way these Imperials seemed to allow their Emperor to. He would work with whichever party leader was Prime Minister, though it was no secret that he saw Peter Akwasi as a sort of grandfather-figure.

"Not always easy bearing the weight of the crown, is it Emperor Nathaniel? Though I must say, the Chrinthani media seems to be more voracious than their Acadzian counterparts. They always this excitable, or is it you?"

[Chrinthanium]

Emperor Nathaniel

"King Jordanus," responded the Emperor, "heavy lies the head that wears the crown." The Emperor seated himself again, "You know, Your Majesty, my brothers tell me that the media is excitable, but it is me that excites them. Whether or not this is true remains to be seen."

Emperor Nathaniels age is what excited the media. His so-called good looks didn't hurt either. He knew the media used him to sell papers and increase ratings. The people fueled this policy.

There was tremendous excitement in the Empire. Finally, the face of the Empire wasn't a grown man who'd been bred for the job, but an innocent (or at least innocent-looking) young man whose father had died very suddenly and without warning. The citizens were sympathetic to him. The memory of his impationed speech after receiving the news, tears streaming down his face, had endeared the new emperor to his people and remained fresh within their memory.

However, the media did forget that he was still human. Though the death of an Emperor was a national tragedy, it was still his father. Even four months later, the emperor still hurt.

Nevertheless, he had grown up in front of the media. Unlike previous Crown Imperial Princes, the 24-hour news cycle that developed in the nineties gave the people unfettered access to Nathaniel. He was their child too. They applauded his awards, jeered his failures. The media that treated him more like a rock-star than a person had him under arrest.

"King Jordanus, sometimes the media are your unwitting accomplace, other times they are your downfall. Either way, I have been in the public eye since I was born. It never changes for me. 'Shake his hand, kiss her hand, smile pretty for the camera.'"

He continued, "I had to look good for the cameras. My mother told me I had to. Of course, thankfully, I inherited her looks. The unfortunate side-effect of all of that is the constant bombardment of cameras in my face wherever I go."

"I digress. As annoying as it can be at times, and as much as I enjoy those moments without the cameras, I do enjoy the attention."

Foreign Minister Jon Latham interjected, "Your Majesty, you seem to relish it at times."

"At times, Mr. Latham, at times." replied the emperor with his trademark smile.

Joesen Table

The Chrinthani Imperial Princes were young. Ryan was nineteen and Peter was seventeen. Their youthfulness only inspired the thoughts of single ladies within the empire. Those who dreamed of marrying a handsome prince did, at least in theory, have their chance.

Ryan became the main subject of conversation of the media due to his unique positiom within the Empire. The oldest brother of the Emperor, though still two years the emperors junior, would be the man responsible for producing the next heir to the throne. The media has constantly discussed the implications of his bachelorhood. Though at nineteen, settling down was not in the forefront of his mind.

Ryan knew that everyone in the room knew the odd mixture his family was. He also knew that people, be it out of respect, or sheer shyness, had not even asked him about the Empire having an openly gay emperor. It must have been at least a passing thought in the more religious of persons in attendance. He knew they'd never dare ask the Emperor--ebenthough he was honest and open about it -- about his preclusions.

Peter, in the other hand, being only seventeen himself, found this whole event amusing to say the least. He never cared for the value of protocol. He never wanted to be formal. He just wanted to be an adolescent. A simple kid that enjoyed hanging out with his friends, and thrillseeking.

"Queen Bridgette," said Ryan, "I must say you look exquisite this evening. It's a pleasure to finally make your aquaintence."

[Kyr Shorn]

OOC: Ignore this.

[Somewhereistonia]

OOC: I know this is a little late in the game but better than never right? *snip*

Then one of the minor Chrinthani notables attending the meeting (most notable feature was the giant cross around his neck) accidentally/on purpose bumped into her chair, spilling red wine all over her new yellow silk sari.

Following instincts honed on the killing fields, she twisted around in her seat, balled her fist and socked him hard in the jaw.

All OOC: I know I have not been particularly active recently, and this post may immediately be followed by an overdue post of my own in this thread. Still, I have a few problems here.

1. You, an Asian nation suddenly appearing unannounced at a conference of north american nations seems a bit odd. Joseon asked to come first, sending a diplomatic communique. This is Chrinths conference, so he can invite who he wants. Arriving uninvited at a conference specifically designed for North American nations seems odd. If you have his permission then ignore this, but it seems that you have not.

2. What is this about the "accidentally/on purpose bumped" bit? You shouldn't be controlling other players. Some control is fine for storyline, but to note his cross so strongly and saying that they deliberately went to knock into your character is a bit out of line. The violence is up to you, but it really doesn't fit in with the rest of the thread. The whole post strikes me as completely off topic.

I don't want you to get too disheartened, but there are plenty of other ways to get involved. You can easily comment on the goings on of the conference, as Spyr has done. There are many other ways to get involved. But this post of yours really just does not seem to fit to me.

[Chrinthanium]

*snip*

All OOC: I know I have not been particularly active recently, and this post may immediately be followed by an overdue post of my own in this thread. Still, I have a few problems here.

*snip*

((OOC: Well, unreal, just remember that I am holding off for everyone to get involved before I hold the actual discussions. Right now you and Walmington are just sitting at tables, eating and drinking without saying a word to anyone. Can't wait till your schedule calms down and we can RP the actual discussions.))

*snip*

Then one of the minor Chrinthani notables attending the meeting (most notable feature was the giant cross around his neck) accidentally/on purpose bumped into her chair, spilling red wine all over her new yellow silk sari.

Following instincts honed on the killing fields, she twisted around in her seat, balled her fist and socked him hard in the jaw.

((OOC: Kyr, I really appreciate your enthusiasm here. I do not think I can add anymore to what unreal has already stated. Be careful to not commit acts of violence on charaters in a diplomatic RP. It typically doesn't net you many friends in the world, and most likely, had I allowed the post to count, gotten your delegation arrested, and then deported. At this time, I am not permitting other nations to attend.))

[Kyr Shorn]

OOC: Sorry about that, 3 AM decisions are never a good thing, just ignore what I posted. I have a better idea of what I want to do for trade, that is once Britian is back from vacation.