The Meeting (IC/ATTN: TIANDI)

[Sabara]

You look down. The umbrellas form a multicolored sea, splattered with raindrops. People, taxis, and bicycles rush through the canopy. In the distance, the clouds are opening up, forming that odd phenomenon known as a rainbow. By anyone's standard it would be an exceptional afternoon, but... this is Minghoi, you say to yourself. The weather was so varying from the combined factors of a mountain range, sheltered inlet, and ocean winds that every day was a surprise. And today is no different, you smile to yourself, as you gently shut the blinds to the city behind you.

Turning back to your cedar desk, you glance around the sparse study. A single lamp (you've had it for maybe.. about three years?) flickers on the now shaded windowsill, casting a dreary light about the room. Besides the lamp, the only other furniture in the room is a traditional-Meisaani floor-level table. Being the head of the Foreign Affairs office obviously doesn't warrant a very nice workspace.. you think to yourself. But there's work to be getting to: the Prime Minister has issued a formal communique to be addressed to certain countries in Tiandi, something that won't get done in one evening.

You take a look at the formidable laptop glaring at you, and decide that some fresh air would be pretty darn nice. Gently extending your stiff muscles, you bound out of your little pouf and out of the sliding glass door. You nod to your colleagues as you take the elevator down to the first floor, and exit the building. The air is fresh, whirling around the eaves of tall wutungs and modern shopping centers. It's a peculiar mix of old and new, but refreshing. Maples and evergreens tower over the wood walkways as you set course to the nearby flea market.

Making your way among the haphazard stalls and hawking vendors, you settle on a delicious looking lychee naicaa (bubble tea), a perfect blend of black milk tea infused with the fruit, and little tapioca bubbles. You savor the drink as you make your way back to the office, through the pouring rain and haphazard streets. When you finally arrive back in your office, you stop a little to stretch, and start.

Open Communique
Commonwealth of Meisaan
美山

---

6/3/15

Encryption: Unencrypted
Primary Recipients: Republic of Jeongmi, Empire of the Lotus People, Greater Empire of Akitsukuni, Republic of Gaoxiong, People's Republic of Zhouran, Confederacy of Kibland, Confederation of Zangsabaar, Nakhon
CC: General Tiandi Diplomatic Channel
Subject: Economic Discussions in Minghoi

Sr/Mme,

If it is convenient and/or desired, His Majesty the Emperor would formally invite each of the aforesaid nations' representatives, along with any outside observers, to a joint-discussion on economics in the Meisaani capital of Minghoi. An informal social will take place at the Hotel Tamgak, a day before actual proceedings. The Meisaani government will formulate all lodging arrangements. Please contact the foreign office before creating any arrangements.

The Commonwealth of Meisaan believes strongly in decisive foreign policy. In a day and age when international politics are extremely volatile, the Commonwealth believes the best course of action is to ensure strong diplomatic bonds with her neighbors.

Thank you.

His Imperial Majesty the Emperor Leung Gai
梁

OOC: just post your arrivals and i'll take care of everything

~A Tiandi production~

[Iwanoji]

Ujizane Īto
Minister of Foreign Affirs
On arrival at Minghoi International

The air of the sterilized cabin was soothing, given my fear of flying and the ease at which this small plane moved to the winds it was nice to have something to keep me calm. I could however look out over at the city of Minghoi and it enigmatic beauty a mix of rustic antiquity and sleek modernist structures that dotted the cities as if they were grabbing for the clouds. The specks of rain plastered the airplane window as I could hear the landing gears come out of its enclosing containment and touched down scrapping across the asphalt of the airport.

"So are you ready?" Asked my friend Shinichi Fūkanabu dressed in a glossing grey suit with long hair held in a very traditional Chonmage bun as opposed to my while nicely maintained yet noticeably cheaper and darker black suit with a very short buzzed hair cut I had.

"I don't know." I responded taking a sip of my Konbucha (Seaweed Tea) sitting next to him as the jet was taxing into port.

"Cone on im sure the ten years being Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs has to count for something."

"Yeah but being the actual Minister of Foreign Affairs for 36 hours doesn't mean much. Not like I got much field experiance as deputy." I retorted hearing the breaking of the jet as it set up to the airport.

"You worry to much. You know you weren't even suppose to be here you know. So why don't you show Mr. Gōto that those ten years weren't a waste alright." He said standing up just as door of the jet opened up. I leaned my head back and took a gulp on my Konbucha and stood up myself and shook Shinichis hand and I took my leave as he stayed on i took my leave heading through the terminal tunnel and to a sectioned off part of the airport with cement halls and steel staircases leading down in a squared downward staircase. It finally ended in a parking garage style structure with a bunch of cars left and right and finally an older man holding a sign saying "Īto, Ujizane" on a piece of glossy paper board. I walked up to him and he pointed me to a black car the most typical of the city and we got in me taking the left side of the back as preferred.

The trip was silent but I could always look into the mans rear view and see him smiling. I passed the time by looking out the rain covered windows and at the city with tall modern buildings mixed in with structures that could easily be hundreds maybe thousands of years old. I kept to myself as the rain stopped and the sun punched through the clouds and then the car stopped. It was the Hotel Tamgak where the informal social event was to take place. I brought out my gift to the social as was tradition in my homeland and I leaned into the passenger side window which the man had let down for me.

"May you please make sure my packing is sent to room 288 please." I said getting a nod in responses. I then stood in front of the hotel with a white Tokkuri in my hands and the character 茶 painted on the front of it.

[Mingwok]

Pame-Kyou, Hasumin
Two days before end of Mangzhong

"It's not simple, really! All we need is to upgrade not just our sattelite system but also the communications cloud in our space station! That way we can have enough communicational resources to create a secondary cloud on the Lunar Colony!"

The whole court, in their Seiza seats, traditional regalia (the nobles were fond of swords) and short tables, all looked at Fudo with awkward silence. Confusion. Of course, these men were politicians, bureaucrats, representatives and administrators, not computer wizards who learned advanced coding at age 17. Tenoru and the crown princess, Shiheki stood at the front. Only they shown a look of interest, even in imperial (regal) poise.

Shiheki murmured into her adoptive mother's ear, with Her Glorious Holy Majesty listening intently. They both chuckled, catching the energetic magnate's attention.

Fudo turned around.

"You Majesty, have I... said something...?" He asked.

"No, no, not at all. Go on." Her Glorious Holy Majesty gestured.

"So yeah, this connection, while slow in between celestial bodies ir works just as fast as ours within the planet, thus may give new opportunities and ideas in between the two networks....blah...blah....mammmrhshsbeusga..."

An attendant, a messenger silently approaches Tenoru, whispering within her ear.

"Your Majesty, our Empire has been invited into a meeting by His Imperial Majesty Leung Gai to Meisaan. It seems of great urgency that we come around." She said, the Empress in a deciding look.

Tenoru raises her hand, calling the attention of Fudo.

"Yamashita Fudoshija, as much as I bear great interest upon your proposal, I am afraid me and my daughter will have to leave for now, urgent matters. The elders shall accomodate my place, I shall look upon your full proposal once we return. I must dismiss this session for now! Kwokwa Hafufu." Tenoru announced, her and Shiheki rose up and bowing.

"Kwokwa Hafufu." The members of the court replied, rose and bowed in accordance before exiting the Hafusazen's hall.

International Waters
Hasumin Air Navy fleet and the Imperial Plane

"Of what urgency does Meisaan have to get almost every nation in Uju up there?" Tenoru asked her advisor.

"We don't know for sure, but if it is on our best interests we should take mutual action." her advisor, Hagami replied.

"Good thing this isn't like during the Min."

"The Min?"

"Nothing, you weren't there when it happened."

Hotel Tamgak, Meisaan
Room 461

Rain falls as a small playlist sings its sounds across the room. Windmill Beats. Shiheki looks toward the blurred window as the bokeh-decorated landscape, complete with its raindrops clearer than newly polished glasses. It was beautiful.

It was rain.

On another room where thr blind can only hear rain, she hears music and drops fall as people go about their everyday lives in either wet frustration, cold chill or calm repose, which is the case for Shiheki.

Her ears feel almost free. She was delighted. In sleepy hypnotic experiences within such aesthetic she went up the bed and rolled up her sheets, and closed her eyes.

Surely, she is sensing the same rain the blind hear in beating repose.

Room 453
Hotel Tamgak

Tenoru has allowed Shiheki for her own room, by insistence. Great. She thinks now.

Thinking.

Mulling.

Politics? Other topics? Father leaving for Jeongmi on her behalf?

Maybe.

We can assume for now. We take the reins, she might come to shiheki's room.

For now, Hashbrowns and other hotel food.

[Zhouran]

Minghoi, Meisaan, Jungju

Raindrops splattering across the hotel room window, clouds above the sky, a canopy of umbrellas fill the streets. It was a normal site in Minghoi, but in the Zhouranese capital city of Ouyang, such site doesn't exist. Rather than being rainy, Ouyang would always be clear and sunny. Also, buildings with white marble and buildings with gilded stucco facades dominate the Ouyang skyline, rather than tall, modern skyscrapers like that of Minghoi's skyline.

Lin had only graduated from the world-class highly-prestigious Jiakang University just a year ago, earning a Master's degree in International Diplomacy. He was able to get his job as a diplomat at the Ministry of External Affairs during the start of the year. Arriving at Minghoi a few days ago, Lin wasn't really told why he was here, but his superiors told him that Meisaan was holding a "joint-discussion."

Exiting the bathroom after a long, steamy shower, Lin got himself ready. Wearing a suit and tie, polishing his black formal shoes, and styling his formal hairstyle with hair wax, he left his hotel room, went downstairs and exited the hotel. He stopped for moment and turned around to remember the hotel its name. "Ahh, Hotel Tamgak, got it" he said to himself as he turned back around and walked off.

---

Somewhere in the waters between Jungju and Uju

Three surface vessels from the Combined Guards Fleet of the ZPA Navy, consisting of a single Laobukepo-class nuclear-powered guided-missile destroyer, a Bangshou-class amphibious assault ship and a Type 99 nuclear-powered surveillance ship, were supposed to sail near Meisaan in order to keep an eye on their navy, but this time, they were not given such orders. Instead, they were ordered to sail home. To the commanders of the ships, they thought that their duty was replaced with spy satellites, but in reality, the government didn't care much about the joint-discussion, seeing it as something "minor."

[Toishima]

Room 451, Hotel Tamgak
Minghoi
Meisaan

Kikuko could hear the rain and could feel the cool droplets splash against her pale, soft skin, not normally touched by the sun. She sat cross-legged on the balcony of her supposedly luxurious hotel suite. Anything that could potentially become dangerous and was useless to the Akitsukunese monarch had been removed on request, meaning there were no bedside lamps, television and others. The Empress of Akitsukuni had forfeited a pleasurable trip to Zangsabaar for this semi-clandestine political meeting, which had been planned by Akitsukunese and Meisaani governments over several months. Kikuko's briefing only told her that the threat of the anti-monarchists had to be addressed. She knew precisely who the target was, and felt no sympathy for them.

She was not even officially attending the meeting. Her presence was mainly to represent Akitsukuni's monarchy and to approve anything the Deputy Prime Minister did, as well as to provide the meeting with some level of legitimacy amongst the world leaders. Security reasons -especially from the JLF these days- prevented her from leaving Akitsukuni often, but here she was on the upper floors of a Meisaani hotel. Kikuko enjoyed these excursions, be they inside or outside of her Empire.

Her world-famous disability did not hinder the very young Empress, her coronation at the age of 13 making her one of the youngest monarchs in recent memory. Reporters loved the fact that Kikuko was blind since young, citing her determination and personal strength as evidence that Akitsukuni was in good hands for the next few decades. She had learned to cope since young, using her other senses and sharp memory to overcome her obstacles. By the age of nine she had memorised a good portion of the Miyako Imperial Palace, and had learned to respond naturally when interacting with others by using her hearing. Before interacting with foreign leaders she would listen to recordings of their speeches to be able to recognise and greet them personally.

Kikuko had already memorised the layout of the admittedly small suite provided to her, though found it uninteresting and preferred to sit on the balcony, where she could hear and smell the atmosphere of the foreign city. The rain made it even better. From young, she had enjoyed the feeling of water of all forms, be it in droplets or full baths. She smiled, spreading her arms and allowing the rain to collect in her lap, soaking into her crimson and black kimono. These angry colours, two of the four national colours of Akitsukuni, contrasted greatly with the white bandages wrapped around her unseeing eyes, as globally iconic an accessory as the elaborate headdress that was the Imperial Crown (currently languishing on the table inside the room).

Security for her was unusually light. In the Miyako Imperial Palace, she enjoyed the protection of three divisions of the Imperial Guards, and on tours and diplomatic visits she often received a whole company of Bishamon Division Guards, but here she had to rely on a single squad of six to keep the mission as low-profile as possible. They took turns to guard the door to the room in twos, dressed in simple black jumpsuits and eschewing the iconic aesthetically samurai-based equipment that the Guards were known for. If the Imperial House had their way, they would have booked the entire floor and locked it down, but the idea here was to draw as little attention as possible. The official story was that reclusive Akitsukunese billionaire Hiroshi Sakai was staying in the room, and these were his guards. Would-be assassins would find much tougher opponents than the usual underpaid security firms, though.

---

Lobby, Hotel Tamgak
Minghoi
Meisaan

"Remember to look for a bar or something, this social nonsense will probably be dry," Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice Ikuo Kaise waved his hand nonchalantly as he surveyed the outside of the hotel. Unlike the closeted Empress, the seasoned politician had been here dozens of times. This was not even the first or the tenth time he had been in the Tamgak lobby, and he still found the lion statue in the corner to be one of the ugliest statues he had ever seen.

Taizo Sugimura nodded enthusiastically. Much to Kaise's disappointment, this junior DRP member had been attached to the mission to gain valuable experience. Foreign Minister Nakanowatari had obviously taken an interest in Sugimura, and with his years numbered the senior minister was apparently trying to groom him to be a successor. Kaise was forced to go along with it by Ishihara himself. The junior politician had been ordered to sit down and shut up. Only the Empress and the DPM would talk.

Kaise knew the importance of the event they would be attending. This conference had been in the works by both Akitsukuni and Meisaan for months now, almost immediately after bilateral ties finally thawed after close to 70 years of near-hostility. Kaise did not blame them, for it was a fact that Akitsukuni invaded and destroyed half of Meisaan in the Eulhae War. The era of Tsukiyama's historical revisionism was over. Now that one of the main rivalries in Sinju was solved, a formerly secondary rivalry was forced into the forefront - that of the rising Communist power in the East. Kaise was expecting a solid solution to be formed to counter the Reds in this conference, which was deceptively disguised as an innocent economic forum. He believed only his Meisaani counterpart had a similar agenda, but was also a bit unsure as to whether this was even the same event Nakanowatari had been in secret talks about.

With the excitement over the secret anti-communist agenda, he had no desire to take part in this "social event" nonsense. Cocktail parties and shaking hands while still making effective policy was Ishihara's forte. Paperwork, party management and quiet manipulation was what gaunt-faced, slick-haired Kaise preferred. Too bad Ishihara had to remain in-country to deal with the concurrent environmental discussion; Meisaan had given them too short a notice. Perhaps the Empress would enjoy the event, though. His plan was to appear at the start with the Empress and Sugimura, then ditch the place and go for a drink at his usual place in this town, returning at the end to close off the event. This was how he usually coasted through political "social events" for the last 20 years, after realising most of the foreign politicians had little of interest to hear about.

The unfortunate addition of Sugimura to the equation meant he would have to bring him out to another bar after the event, possibly with some other like-minded politicians. Informal social meets were just too boring.

[Litovat]

The crisp morning air of Kalisz was always inviting to Vladan. For some reason he always found himself to be an early riser and enjoy the early mornings before anyone else was awake. Mornings tended to be much calmer and more relaxed; he preferred to receive news in the early morning rather than mid to late afternoon.

"Your majesty, we have received an open invitation from the emperor of Messian to attend some sort of joint-discussion on economics."

The king nodded absently as he sipped on his coffee. It was imperative that Litovat send someone to represent her at this meeting. Regardless if the country was one of the intended recipients or not, the letter was an open invitation to all of Tiandi. This was the chance for Litovat to gain a toehold in the eastern countries and possibly form some new friendships away from the backwardness of Gungju. With the fresh elections for premier not yet finished, it was likely either king Vladan or his husband, king Tibor, would attend the metting.

"Notify the Messiani government that I will be attending this event and will be bringing along two guests, a personal escort and a translator."

---

The small plane banked slightly as it prepared for it's descent towards Minghoi International Airport. This would be the newly crowned king's first foreign visit and he was intended to prove to the world that Litovat is a good investment. Also he was hoping to possibly gain some new insight into how these countries of the east became so prosperous while those of Gungju remained stagnant and backwards. It was time to bring some new light into Litovat.

The plane jolted as it touched down and brought king Vladan back to his senses.

"Your majesty, we have arrived at Minghoi International."

[Kibland]

Ambassador Åsmund Stengård
Minghoi Int'l Airport

---

Åsmund was, to describe his current emotional state in brief, very nervous.

A week ago, he had been a freshly made Ambassador slaving away in Østerhavn, either doing menial tasks for his superiors or sitting in an office waiting for something to come his way. How and why he had caught the eye of the Statmand¹ was beyond him, but here he was, riding a plane to another country as the aide of the man who- though he was, of course, responsible for being a representative and not a policy maker- was essentially in charge of Kibland's foreign relations. He had hoped to, at best, head embassies in other nations; Åsmund was barely ankle deep into his career, after all, a mere 28 years old. Leaning forward in his chair, he let his eyes fall on his beneficiary, pensive.

The man in question, the Statmand, Torbjørn Haraldssen, was a man of 47 years. He still had a youthful physique, not unlike Åsmund's own. Both were slim, tall men; blonde, with big, blue eyes. Stereotypically Kibbish. The differences in age showed obviously, however. The Statmand's hair was thinning and graying; his skin was worn with years of stress, face masked in wrinkles that spoke of both experience and frustration. Par for the course with politics, Åsmund assumed. Haraldssen was certainly less nervous than his aide. Yes, while the fresh faced ambassador was fidgeting away in the jet's coldly lit interior, he was just dozing off, legs kicked up on the seat in front of him.

The PA crackled to life out of nowhere, immediately grabbing Åsmund's attention. The disconnected sound of the pilot's voice came through, sanitized of emotion by the low quality.

"Fasten your seatbelts, please; we are beginning our landing approach. Thank you."

He quickly fell back into his seat and dutifully strapped himself in. The Statmand awoke and let his legs fall back to the floor, securing himself in as well. He looked back to Åsmund.

"Excited?"

The ambassador awkwardly wobbled his head in a way that didn't really give an answer at all.

"You'll be fine," the Statmand said in response, looking back forward, ever so casually.

There was silence until the jet touched down shortly afterward, the sounding of big rubber wheels carrying a big metal machine down a runway drowning out the sound of Åsmund's own beating. Eventually the plane rolled to a stop entirely. This was his cue to unbuckle and get up, eager to do anything else after hours of sitting. The Ambassador threw on his suit jacket and shook it into a more comfortable fit while Haraldssen simply smoothed the creases out of his own; he hadn't taken it off during the entire flight. An impressive feat, Åsmund thought.

They exchanged a short glance before making their way to the door, already open and waiting. The Statmand went out first, briskly descending the metal stairs that were unfolded for them. The younger diplomat followed closely after. As his feet touched the rough tarmac he took in his surroundings, feeling... alone. The two of them stuck out like a sore thumb among sore thumbs. He'd never felt so foreign before.

He looked over to see Statmand Haraldssen looking to him knowingly, rolling a cigarette around in his hands. The ambassador watched as he swiftly brought it up to his mouth and touched a lighter to it, sending a little puff of smoke curling up into the air.

"I don't believe you're supposed to smoke out here, Statmand," Åsmund said, unable to stop himself from speaking.

Haraldssen only shook his head and motioned to the airport around them. "We're already as conspicuous as we can be, ambassador, I wouldn't worry too much."

Conspicuous, Åsmund thought, rolling the word over in his head, almost able to feel all the eyes boring into him- both real and imagined.

The Statmand continued to speak.

"Come on, we've got a hotel and a meeting waiting for us. Gods willing we'll serve Kibland well."

Åsmund nodded, composing himself. "Gods willing."

---

1 : Position analogous to that of a Minister of Foreign Affairs in Kibland

[Gaoxiong]

Hotel Tamgak
Minghoi, Meisaan

---

As he arrived to the hotel from the airport, Hong Jianren, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, thought to himself. Accompanying him was Chen Xiongwen, the Vice President. They got off of a vehicle, and were greeted by the rain and the bustling activity of Minghoi. Hong was experiencing a mix of uncertainty and anticipation as they checked in.

The results of this conference will turn out to be beneficial to Gaoxiong and other nations, he thought. The Vice President and the Foreign Affairs Minister do not always agree, but they both felt that participating in this meeting would improve economic relations between the nations involved. But only the Vice President knew that some people had some different agendas to promote.

The delegation arrived to their room. Upon arrival, Chen said in amazement, "This room is very nice, even though it is small." He looked through the room window. Chen could see traditional buildings and modern skyscrapers of Minghoi in the distance, although it was not very clear because of the rain. "Hopefully, the conference will go well," Chen said. "Yes, the economy of Tiandi is a very important issue," Hong replied. He hadn't been told much of the event, only that it was a joint-discussion on economics.

They then talked about how the conference can improve relations with the nations in the Sinju Union. Jeongmi, the Empire of the Lotus People, and even Meisaan itself were represented, and part of Sinju. Hong hoped that he would return to Gaoxiong with something that would strengthen relations not just between the union, but between all nations involved in the meeting.

[Sabara]

Hotel Tamgak
Minghoi, Meisaan

"Please make way." A stately man in traditional Meisaani dress holds out an ancient scroll, riddled with Tianqian calligraphy. "His Imperial Majesty, Leung Gai." The man silently glides to his position on the left of a glass, box-esque container, holding a peculiar looking Meisaani maple tree.

Immediately, the entire lobby falls silent. Diplomats and politicians alike set down their beverages and look in the direction of the main entrance. A tall, stocky figure materializes in the doorway. His olive skin is worn with the lines of stress and fatigue, his kind eyes hiding under a blanket of smile and frown marks. On either side of his lush, golden embroidered robes are two pages and a guard. The guard looks serious, wearing the traditional armor of a Meisaani warrior. Behind him is the Prime Minister, who dons a red qipao.

The procession halts at the beginning of the wooden slats, the epitome of serene and regal. All over the lobby, delegates and Meisaani officials alike take a deep bow, before the messenger once again makes a proclamation.

"His Imperial Majesty, Leung Gai, has arrived."

At once, the atmosphere takes a more relaxed tone as the Meisaani group split apart, mingling among the different foreign politicians. A tea kiosk is erected in the middle of the room. The representatives begin to socialize once more.

(ooc: at this point, feel free to do some rp of national leaders getting together and stuff)

Minghoi International Airport

The Litovatian and Kibbish representatives are met at a private terminal in the luxurious airport, and escorted into black electrically-powered limousines that will take them into the city.

[Zangsabaar]

Hotel Tamgak,
Minghoi, Meisaan

In the back corner of the lobby, a large dark-skinned man dressed in a suit steeped his fermented Honey Black Tea, while watching the Meisaani delegation carefully. Aside from a few scattered translators, he was the only Mijun man there.

As the foreigners collected in the lobby, Kiwanga Ambessa stayed put, steeping his tea and watching. Delegates shook hands, bowed to one another and some curious Gungjuns even kissed each other's faces. He had just flown in from Hasumin where he was giving a talk on foreign investment at the Imperial Colleges, and was quite tired, but remained in the lobby regardless.

Kiwanga Ambessa was not easily recognized outside of his native Zangsabaar, however many had heard of "the Kibesso", a Mijun man who had somehow managed to become a financial success and even speak at some of Shinju's most prestigious institutions.

Rumours regarding his history were plentiful; he was the benevolent dictator of some backwater Mijun nation, he was adopted by Yashimese oligarchs and used as a political tool to showcase diversity, he was the CEO of a diamond operation in Kibetsu. None were true, however, but instead he was the Deputy Chancellor of the Confederation of Zangsabaar. Now many didn't find that title particularly spectacular, but the Kibesso was one of the most iconic political figures in the world, not that the self-righteious Shinjuns would notice. In his short political career he bridged the gap between Zangsabaar's politics and economics, he lead to large development projects in the poorer west, he started many international student exchange programs and brought more business into Zangsabaar.

Ambessa was not one to embellish, however. He sipped the now-cool tea and waited for the meeting to begin. After dismissively greeting a few Cheongjun delegates, he returned to his tea, waiting for an opportunity of some sort.

[Toishima]

Lobby, Hotel Tamgak
Minghoi
Meisaan

Empress Kikuko entered the lobby with her hair done up in an elaborate bun, though as was common in her public appearances she had released her bangs and they hung in front of her face, cut extremely straight. In a normal person half of her eyesight would be obscured by her bangs, but she did not need to care about this. The bottom half of those recognisable white bandages were visible beneath her silky black fringe. Her head was topped by the complex Imperial Crown, held in place by her hair and consisting of a central piece made of gold, bearing a resemblance to the Imperial House mon of a fan with a sun-disc, as well as two silver rods inserted the bun itself to keep it secure.

She had changed into more official attire for the social meeting, though was not using the dark red and black outfits the Akitsukunese monarchy and government elites often used as official attire. Kikuko wore a white Furisode, tied with a red obi with black trim. The sleeves of the Furisode displayed an array of thick, angular red lines that were somehow representative of the 11 regions in Akitsukuni, but also reminded of modern splinter camouflage. The front of the outfit beneath the sash displayed a river scene and Mount Hourai reminiscent of an Ukiyo-e painting.

Flanked by two of her Imperial Guards, who were now unarmed but still deadly through their mastery of the Guards' self-created martial art, Kikuko hovered near the tea kiosk, sipping from a cup of local tea that one of the Guards had helped her obtain. She listened intently for the approach of others, inevitably overhearing the conversations of other leaders as well.

---

"Accompany Her Imperial Highness. I have things to do," Kaise gruffly ordered Sugimura, ducking towards the hotel doors. Perhaps he would go to the Golden Carp again, there was still a month-old tab he had not paid off from his last visit here. The alcoholic politician had haunts all over the world, a consequence of being first an aide to the foreign ministry then an ambassador and now the DPM.

As he walked towards the doors, his black formal kimono flowing and his slick hair glinting in the cool lights of the hotel lobby, Kaise found himself intercepted by someone else...

---

OOC: To you, Sab! Intercept him!

[Iwanoji]

Ujizane Īto
Hotel Tamgak

I took my seat amongst the crowds of people mainly local politicians and diplomats of othe countries although that was in no way a surprise to me give the nature of this meeting. I felt inwardly nervous yet I kept a fairly calm exterior. My experiance as deputy hadn't been in vain however and I kept an orderly appearance and hoped that if I have a front of confidence is eventually become confident to a degree.however the fact I had no staff with me since this was last minute was a bit disappointing and worrying. This was originally a trip scheduled for the new Prime Minister as his first act as chief diplomat but the political crisis at home kept him away from the international spotlight for the moment.

Once the preceding started I could barely contain myself in this cool and calm state that I presented myself in. I stood up with the rest of the crowed as the Royal preceding a started. I had awful memories of the monarchy back before the revolution. The guardsmen of the palace empaling people as they marched on the Palace, the sounds of machine gun fire erupting from its guard towers cutting down anything standing on the other side of the guards protective line, and the prison covered in sewage, moss and mod covering the stone walls, and water dripping from the sides not to mention the smell of decayed corpses. The monarchism made me feel wholly uncomfortable but I trudged on through the bad memories of thirty years ago understanding that there was no reason to freak out over this endevour but my coolness was about to break and was only saved by the end of the ceremony and the beginning the mingling.

As the social started I took myself and took a seat and a random table hoping to be more noticeable here then when I was at the other but quickly noticed their was a tea drinking diplomat at my side. I quickly got into diplomat mode and introduced myself.

"Hello, my name Ujizane Īto, I'm the current Forign Minister for the nation of Iwanoji. It's a pleasure to meet you." I said with confidence as I Leander over extending my have for a handshake.

[Sabara]

Antechamber
Hotel Tamgak

Petite in appearance, Tong Meili (often referred to as "Miss Mei" by her counterparts) was not a woman to be trifled with. Her weathered face - albeit hidden in expensive rouge - showed the lines of stress. Her black eyes crinkled with the energy of an electric storm, bushy hair expanding from her scalp like some delusional gradeschooler's rudimentary drawing of a black hole. All of these features led to Ms. Mei impounding a remarkable impression on those who had the peculiar luck of meeting her.

Of course, weathering the political strata of Meisaan was enough to make anyone into a human statue. Mei Li was certainly experienced, she had navigated the haphazard maze of politics and stagnation to reach the post of Prime Minister of Meisaan. Loved by the Labour and hated by the Conservatives, she definitely lived up to the reputation of "Iron Lady", among her colleagues and foreign counterparts alike.

As a result, Ms. Mei had developed a one track mind. She was prepared to pull tricks - indeed - while organizing the meeting, she had used the slightly deceitful facade of an "economic joint discussion" to craft the free Tiandian nations into one formidable obstacle against the rising threat of Communist Qinyue. Unlike her predecessors, Ms. Mei was not interested in remaining a slavering worshiper of Jeongmi. Privately, she disregarded Jeongmi as a "tree for Meisaan to hid behind".

While many in Tiandi would blow off Ms. Mei's mindset as ludicrous, she had gained a remarkable following in her home country. She had introduced an extremely successful healthcare bill to Meisaan four years ago, revolutionizing the corrupt system into efficiency. She was rebuilding the economy through a massive centralization process, bringing together the disillusioned provinces into one, much more united nation.

However, one problem that continued to haunt the Tong government was Akitsukuni. The two states relationship had certainly been rocky, if not downright hostile. Although Ms. Mei and her cabinet wished to rebuild ties with the militant Yashimese country, the Emperor and a majority of the population did not. Of course, this anti-Akitsukunese sentiment had been exacerbated by the frustrating revisionist policies of Tsukiyama. During the 1980s, it was not uncommon to walk by an old war memorial in Minghoi with hundreds of Meisaani protestors chanting against the "imperial dogs of Yashima."

But times change. To Ms. Mei, it was imperative that Meisaan and Akitsukuni put the past behind, as Qinyue became increasingly belligerent to its neighbors in Tiandi. The Meisaani-Akitsukunese relationship often served as a friction point in Tiandi, hurting Jeongmian efforts to combine the Sinjun nations into one combined effort against Qinyue.

With these thoughts in mind, Ms. Mei strolled over to the doorway in her bright red qipao, spotting the Akitsukuni diplomat trying to exit. Smiling, she sidled up to the harried looking politician:

"Hello Mr. Kaise, you are looking quite fine today," She remarked. "Do you mind sitting down for a bit... and discussing some matters of mutual interest?"

---

(ooc: your turn aki)

[Carquem]

Hotel Tamgak
Minghoi, Meisaan

Imperial Minister of Foreign Affairs Azuma Michio, Lord Anukun, made his way into the lobby of the Hotel Tamgak, following Her Imperial Majesty the Empress Kinran Tenshi and her group of Imperial Guards. Her Imperial Majesty desired an audience with the Emperor Leung Gai, and she wanted catch him before the meeting was set to begin for the day; as such, the group moved rather quickly into and around the lobby, perhaps a little too quickly for the portly Lord Anukun. In his time from the employ of Her Imperial Majesty's Civil Service to his current leadership of Her Imperial Majesty's Imperial Ministry, he had never seen anyone so anal about punctuality as the Empress. A common saying in the Cabinet was that if you were five minutes early to a meeting, you would be late; as such, she would not be afraid to reprimand you for it, albeit not out of spite or with intent to humiliate, but merely as an expression of irritation. This punctuality still extended to this, even though none of the party had adjusted to the new time zone they were in, half a world away.

Her Imperial Majesty stopped for a second and asked for Lord Anukun's ear; he obliged, of course. "After the Royal procession has concluded, I want you to speak with the Minister of Foreign Affairs from Iwanoji. He seems rather timid, and I would like for you to strike up some small talk with him before you two naturally move on to more important matters. I want him to feel comfortable. After you feel that you may have gained some insight as to what he seeks to gain from this conference, I would like for you to inform him that I invite him and his delegation to our dinner tonight."

"It is always nice to make friends," Lord Anukun replied.

"Then we are agreed. I appreciate your services as always, daimyō." She informed one of her Guards to stay with the Lord, and for the rest to follow her as she sought out the Emperor Leung Gai. Shortly thereafter, the Royal procession commenced, and Lord Anukun and his Guard stood at attention as it went on. Upon its conclusion, the Lord took the Guard over to get some tea, and then they sat down towards the edge of the lobby, being unable to find the Minister from Iwanoji (as the Lord did not know what he looked like.) Soon thereafter, it became apparent that the gentleman sitting next to Lord Anukun was the person he was looking for, as said gentleman introduced himself.

Addressing the man in Korean, the Lord said, "Mr. Īto, it is an honour. I am Lord Anukun, the Imperial Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Celestial Empire of Carquem." He returned Īto's handshake, which he noted was rather firm, a trait that the Lord liked. "I assume you speak Yashimese, and if it's alright, I do prefer that we speak in it. I feel that we will likely both be more comfortable speaking in our native tongue."

[Toishima]

Lobby, Hotel Tamgak
Minghoi, Meisaan
Ikuo Kaise, Minister for Justice and DPM of Akitsukuni

Kaise was caught by a smallish woman just before he managed to exit. Damn. He immediately recognised her as the Prime Minister of Meisaan, the legendary Tong Meili, dressed in a red qipao.

The tone in her voice was obvious. It was time to discuss that issue which he was truly interested in. The battle against communism. Due to the unfortunate leniencies of the democratic Akitsukunese government, Kaise was now one of those fighting on the front lines against the communists. Just two years ago, three left-wing parties merged into one large Socialist Party of Akitsukuni. While they were nowhee near able to challenge the DRP, it was still a credible threat. Support for them was rising amongst the middle class. The SPA had ties to Qinyue through the old Communist Party of Akitsukuni, a one-time militant movement that went legitimate, which was one of those that had merged.

So not only were the communists a danger on the world stage, they were also a threat on the home front. Qinyue was somehow rising, and while many suggested using Hasumin as a buffer zone and not caring about them, it was unavoidable that the combined Hasumin-Qinyue sponge was absorbing trade from the east. With Hasumin it was easier to fight for trade with the dangling of better port facilities and efficient service. But nothing could beat Qinyue's dust-cheap prices. Qinyue's low prices were also starting to squeeze out low-level manufacturing industries Akitsukuni had in Chōsen and the New Territories.

Militarily, the red gangsters were not too shabby either, and while the Imperial Armed Forces definitely were much stronger. The fear was perpetually there, and numerous technologies had been stolen or copied by Qinyue over the years.

"The same to you, Ms. Tong. This is a fine nation you have here," Kaise gestured exaggeratedly towards the glass doors, "but I am here for matters of greater importance than" - his lip curled - "this cocktail party of pretentious ministers. We are experienced politicians, you and I, and we are beyond this. Let us discuss, then."

[Sabara]

-snip-

Ms. Mei nodded. She had met Kaise on a few occasions, the first being at an international summit in Sabaraa City, one she had already forgotten the name of. They had discoursed quite politely, albeit the atmosphere was a bit cold. She wondered if her attempts to bring their two nations together would prove futile.

"Ah, yes," Meili chuckled, her wrinkles disappearing. "I'm afraid we're a bit old for these youngsters parties. But yes, let us discuss.... matters, that I believe are quite important to both of us."

The pair quickly found a discreet setup in the back corner, where Ms. Mei's tone became more businesslike. "Let's cut to the chase. We both know why we're here, and it's not to socialize," Meili paused, gauging Kaise's expression. "I presume you've received our discreet cables regarding further cooperation between Akitsukuni and Meisaan?"

[Nakhon]

OOC: Pretend like Nakhoni delegates had arrived on time and orderly. Thank you my dears.

Hotel Tamgak

Chancellor Klahan of the small Nakhoni Republic entered the lobby of the luxurious hotel. He was dressed in business attire that is commonplace in the tiny country. With him were his translator and his body guard, both following closely behind. After his Meisaani escorts departed, Klahan leaned towards his translator and whispered in Nakhoni (OOC: Tiandi Thai), "This will be interesting." The old man chuckled to himself before slipping off towards the gathering of foreign dignitaries.

---

Klahan noticed the Jeongmi delegation and immediately swept towards them.

"Greetings President Kim Jae-gyeong, it is quite nice to see you again." The Chancellor said in Johaean as he shook the Jeongmian president's hand. Klahan was fluent in many tongues, as necessary by Nakhoni educational standards and just common practice in many business professions.

Klahan motioned to the large gathering of dignitaries, "I do not recall the last time so many foreign nations have been invited to a single conference. Not that I am complaining of course, just that it seems odd for Meisaan to have so very abruptly called such a meeting." The man paused briefly before adding more, "But enough of that nonsense, how have you been since our last meeting?"

[Gaoxiong]

Lobby
Hotel Tamgak

---

Two Gaoxiongese men arrived to the lobby of the hotel. Chen, one of the men, was quite tall, and Hong, the ofter, was more shorter. A large crowd of dignitaries were visible. This must be the 'informal social', Hong thought. I don't have time for this silliness. He wanted to get straight to business, and that was the meeting after this. In contrast, Chen wanted to socialize. They headed to the middle of the room to the tea kiosk. Chen and Hong poured a cup and walked towards a space away from the crowd.

Chen Xiongwen was the incumbent Vice President of the Republic of Gaoxiong. His political career spans many years, with him being a former mayor of Zhongjing, a Legislative Yuan member, Minister of the Interior, and finally Vice President. Hong Jianren was a former Gaoxiongese Ambassador to Meisaan. As they were drinking his tea, Chen and Hong heard the chatter of the dignitaries.

Chen put his tea down and asked, "We should go socialize with the other dignitaries." Hong put his cup down, then replied, "You are welcome to do that, if you wish. I will remain here." Within a few minutes, Chen finished his tea, got up, and he was no longer visible by Hong. For now, Hong enjoyed his tea. This was a time for him to be alone with his thoughts.

[Arumdaum]

OOC: Sorry for the late and past-3:30AM-quality post. Just assume I came in earlier.

Cloudy. A light drizzle.

It seemed that the drier and sunnier days of spring were finally coming to an end. It was already June, and one could tell the humidity was slowly seeping in. Few paid attention to the plane bound for Minghoi - it was only one of many in the skies of Hapcheon, where it was, as always, business as usual. Businessmen and women commuted to work, riding a colorful myriad of train lines, or perhaps stuck in the traffic of the city's downtown. At their destinations, simultaneous bows and polite greetings, the weather is nice and how do you do's.

I need to get a report in by noon.

I'm visiting Kealakekua with my family next month.

Want to grab lunch later today? Yerin's coming along too.

They knew as much as much they cared to know in regards to the plane flying overhead.

The man floating above in the lofty clouds was a middle-aged 52-year old man named Kim Jae-gyeong, leaving Jeongmi hoping for a little change in his routine - negotiating with domestic politicians to negotiating with international ones. He had become president of the world's most powerful nation a little over two years ago, and was intent on using every opportunity possible to promote Jeongmi's influence and interests abroad. Meisaan's new Prime Minister, Tong Meili, posed a potential stumbling block - Jeongmi's closest ally now sought to distance itself from the global superpower. The four-hour flight from Hapcheon International Airport to Meisaan passed by quickly over briefings, over tea, over the knowledge that this was more than simply an economic conference.

Meisaan and Akitsukuni were finally beginning to enter into a state of détente, what Jeongmi had been trying to promote unsuccessfully for decades. Greater cooperation between the three powers would mean greater opportunities to unite their efforts against the looming communist threat in Qinyue.

Qinyue hadn't been invited. That was intentional. Qinyue, the world's foremost communist power. Qinyue, the world's most populous country. Qinyue, the world's third largest economy.

Qinyue hadn't been invited.

[Toishima]

Ms. Mei being cool

Kaise smiled slightly, leaning casually against the corner, his aged face and crooked features making it seem like more of grimace. So this was indeed the correct place he was supposed to be at. Ms. Tong truly was formidable, though his last meeting with her some time ago did not leave such a good impression. Apparently she was trying to bring their nations together. Kaise had no opposition to this, for he firmly believed it was them, not us that was slowing the reconciliation process.

"Of course I have. This issue is of the utmost importance in my government. Nakanowatari could not make it, naturally, so here I am," Kaise casually replied, almost reaching for his pack of cigarettes before abruptly moving his hand away, "enough with the circling, though - let's go right into the stream. What does Meisaan plan to do about those communists?"

[Iwanoji]

Hotel Tamgak
Minghoi, Meisaan

Imperial Minister of Foreign Affairs Azuma Michio, Lord Anukun, made his way into the lobby of the Hotel Tamgak, following Her Imperial Majesty the Empress Kinran Tenshi and her group of Imperial Guards. Her Imperial Majesty desired an audience with the Emperor Leung Gai, and she wanted catch him before the meeting was set to begin for the day; as such, the group moved rather quickly into and around the lobby, perhaps a little too quickly for the portly Lord Anukun. In his time from the employ of Her Imperial Majesty's Civil Service to his current leadership of Her Imperial Majesty's Imperial Ministry, he had never seen anyone so anal about punctuality as the Empress. A common saying in the Cabinet was that if you were five minutes early to a meeting, you would be late; as such, she would not be afraid to reprimand you for it, albeit not out of spite or with intent to humiliate, but merely as an expression of irritation. This punctuality still extended to this, even though none of the party had adjusted to the new time zone they were in, half a world away.

Her Imperial Majesty stopped for a second and asked for Lord Anukun's ear; he obliged, of course. "After the Royal procession has concluded, I want you to speak with the Minister of Foreign Affairs from Iwanoji. He seems rather timid, and I would like for you to strike up some small talk with him before you two naturally move on to more important matters. I want him to feel comfortable. After you feel that you may have gained some insight as to what he seeks to gain from this conference, I would like for you to inform him that I invite him and his delegation to our dinner tonight."

"It is always nice to make friends," Lord Anukun replied.

"Then we are agreed. I appreciate your services as always, daimyō." She informed one of her Guards to stay with the Lord, and for the rest to follow her as she sought out the Emperor Leung Gai. Shortly thereafter, the Royal procession commenced, and Lord Anukun and his Guard stood at attention as it went on. Upon its conclusion, the Lord took the Guard over to get some tea, and then they sat down towards the edge of the lobby, being unable to find the Minister from Iwanoji (as the Lord did not know what he looked like.) Soon thereafter, it became apparent that the gentleman sitting next to Lord Anukun was the person he was looking for, as said gentleman introduced himself.

Addressing the man in Korean, the Lord said, "Mr. Īto, it is an honour. I am Lord Anukun, the Imperial Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Celestial Empire of Carquem." He returned Īto's handshake, which he noted was rather firm, a trait that the Lord liked. "I assume you speak Yashimese, and if it's alright, I do prefer that we speak in it. I feel that we will likely both be more comfortable speaking in our native tongue."

"Yes I do, and is a pleasure to meet you Lord Anukun. I trust you trip to the meeting was a pleasant one?" I said with a smile being as stately as possible speaking to him in Yashimese a language I knew well and could speak with some competence after twelve or so years of speaking it although some of the more obscure and complex sentence structures tripped me up from time to time although I doubt that would be much an issue here.

I had wished to discuss improved trade deals with him and see that his nation could be of economic kinship. After all the economy back home was fairly sluggish, companies were starting up, youth unemployment was high, and to many people were sticking to subsistence farming to allow any real progress in the nations overall national economy. The People's Party had kept tarifs high and taxs even higher for foreign employers to start in the nation and the goal of the new government was to cut these restrictions out and to get things moving internationally. That's why this is so importent why the Prime Minister and not myself were to originally show up to this however situations on the Homefront required me to take on my stately duty.

[Sabara]

-kaise being a badass

Mei could sense the sense the eagerness in Kaise's voice to continue the conversation. She hadn't remembered the same wiliness in his tone in their last meeting, but then again, that was when the two would have been considered "rivals". With Tsukiyama gone, things could finally change.

"Well, you and I both know the entire purpose of this meeting," Mei began, looking out the window into the pleasant garden below. "There's a reason we invited practically every democratic nation to conference; we must put aside our differences and create one, formidable wall against Qinyue."

[Carquem]

"Yes I do, and is a pleasure to meet you Lord Anukun. I trust you trip to the meeting was a pleasant one?" I said with a smile being as stately as possible speaking to him in Yashimese a language I knew well and could speak with some competence after twelve or so years of speaking it although some of the more obscure and complex sentence structures tripped me up from time to time although I doubt that would be much an issue here.

I had wished to discuss improved trade deals with him and see that his nation could be of economic kinship. After all the economy back home was fairly sluggish, companies were starting up, youth unemployment was high, and to many people were sticking to subsistence farming to allow any real progress in the nations overall national economy. The People's Party had kept tarifs high and taxs even higher for foreign employers to start in the nation and the goal of the new government was to cut these restrictions out and to get things moving internationally. That's why this is so importent why the Prime Minister and not myself were to originally show up to this however situations on the Homefront required me to take on my stately duty.

"I personally found the trip to be fairly pleasant, although we have yet to recuperate from it. Nevertheless, I do appreciate that I am able to take this opportunity with you. If it is alright, I would like to discuss Iwanoji's state of economic development, and how perhaps the Carquian government could give the great Iwanoji-in a hand in coming up in the world. It is my understanding that the Iwanoji economy is kind of slow, true?"

[Toishima]

Mei... Saan. Nice name.

Kaise gave one slow nod, his grimace-like smile returning. So things were truly moving forward.

"Yes. Carry on. Akitsukuni has already been opposing them economically and politically, as you well know. The problem here lies not in our goals, though. How will we unite these disparate peoples?" He gestured meaningfully towards the Hasumin delegation.

[Sabara]

Hehe. That's how my sushi rolls.

Mei glanced thoughtfully around, trying to determine Kaise's intentions.

"Well, I know you may not like what I have to say," Ms. Mei paused carefully. "First of all, Meisaan and Akitskuni must reconcile publicly. To make a statement. Secondly, we need a second detente between you and Hasumin."