New Edomite Peace Conference (Open)

[New Edom]

OOC: background threads here:
viewtopic.php?f=5&t=102233
viewtopic.php?f=5&t=101880

IC:
Peace Conference in New Edom

Nations/Regions Invited:

Tyrrhenian Nations:(all)

United League of Nations countries

Diplomatic Relations
Ossurwald
Cantr
Sensal
Muratonia
Feminopolis

Peacekeepers:
Redzon
Helladria
Hugora
Wolfmanne
Goldsaver
Deus II

Questionable Relations
Vici Minerva

Hopeful of Good Relations
Maraque

On behalf of a weary nation, struggling for cohesion, I wish to invite those nations interested in encouraging peace and national development for New Edom to a peace conference, which will be held in the city of Harbourtown, which is being divided into four main zones: two will be held by peacekeeping units from Helladria, Wolfmanne, Deus II while two will be held respectively by Monarchist and Congressional Forces.

Attendees are urged to clear bringing bodyguards or personal security—as tensions still exist we can promise security but being trigger happy could spill over into the streets. What people need to see is normalcy, and we would appreciate that being encouraged.

The following will be presented as topics for discussion.

1. How to reconcile the desire of the Free Congress to establish a Republic with the Monarchist desire to maintain a strong Monarch as head of state.
2. The desire of leading members of each division of the country to maintain offices they feel have been earned.
3. The consideration of reparations to people who have been made homeless and have lost property and family due to the war.
4. The settlement of refugees.
5. Reorganization of the military.
6. Decisions regarding development of New Edom’s oil resources in Hareng Bay and the infrastructure in Harbourtown with specific attention to labour laws. (a major cause of the dispute that led to the war in the first place.)

Venue and Arrival

- Harbourtown National Airport has been prepared for arrivals, and a motor pool of cars and suvs suitable for the needs of envoys and entourage are near to hand. The venue is to be New Jewell Resort, which is untouched by the war and on the other side of the airport facing Silver Sands beach, one of the finest beaches in New Edom. (attendees are advised not to go swimming in the sea at this time of year, due to areas of the coast being mined and sharks; there are two very nice swimming pools however.)

- According to the preference of delegates and size, bungalows in the native Elwe style as well as condominum style apartments in the hotel itself will be provided.


We are grateful to the nations of the world for any assistance in establishing the process of peace in whatever way that they can.

Sincerely,
Archbishop William Laudner,
Chief Mediator, the National Peace Commission for New Edom

[Ossurwald]

The Journal of Kannlem
International

Calleido Will Attend Peace Conference
Special Envoy Tancred M. W. O. Valloen To Assist The Stadtwalda

Stadtwalda Calleido

Stadtwalda Dalibor I. Calleido told the press that he intends to travel to the city of Harbourstown, in New Edom, for a peace conference to end the civil currently gripping the country. Mr. Calleido spoke about why he was going, saying, "the people of New Edom have always offered friendship to the people of Ossurwald. Both sides reached out to our parties during our recent elections, and thus we owe them the debt of friendship. Friendship is not something that can be lightly given up when it is convenient, it is a duty we all share and live and thrive by." However, People's Party critics have said that Mr. Calleido's trip is likely to involve Ossurwald in the internal affairs of another nation, and could inextricably keep Ossurwald dealing with foreign problems.

Questions are also being raised in the press whether Mr. Calleido will do more harm than good. The democratic republicans in New Edom, the Free Congress under William Touchstone supported Mr. Calleido's Workers' Party. The monarchists under General Mark Obed supported the United Party. However, Mr. Calleido's government is entirely Workers'; social democrats, socialists, and communists. When asked by The Journal if he can remain impartial, Mr. Calleido replied, "it is the duty of free nations to support the aspirations of other peoples to be sovereign and democratic. Attempts to suppress a determined demand for democracy from the people is temporary at best. I would definitely prefer a democratic republic be established in New Edom. But an outcome such as a constitutional monarchy, or even just an elected monarchy are acceptable. That said, those are just a few of the options which may arise. We're going to go in there with open ears and an open mind."

Tancred Valloen, MV

Mr. Calleido is seemingly attempting to prevent criticism of a pro-republican slant by bringing along Tancred M. W. O. Valloen, co-head of the House of Valloen, the former ducal house of Ossurwald overthrown in 1848 by the Liberal Revolution. Mr. Valloen is a Member of the Velstaad for the Workers' Party and denies any intent to ever claim the ducal seat. In fact, Mr. Valloen is a disciple of late socialist leader Trahearn Swoerfon, who led the socialist faction of the Workers' Party until 1998. However, Mr. Valloen's father, the late Conall Valerius Valloen was a staunch monarchist and critic of democracy. Some wonder whether the younger Valloen secretly harbors his late father's opinions.

In the meantime, the two men will be accompanied by a six-person bodyguard of the Stadtdefen. All of Ossurwald is interested in seeing how they progress, as Ossurwald's new government takes its first steps in the outside world.

[New Edom]

To all prospective delegates:
New Jewell Resort offers the finest accommodations. Below are a few photo samples of the grounds, accommodations and other amenities.

The hotel amenities include two swimming pools, tennis courts, a workout room and gymnasium, several conference rooms of various sizes including a large banquet hall which will be used for presentations, two restaurants and two bars, a multi-service chapel, hospital clinic, saunas, steam rooms, massage services, and child care. Entertainments including a jazz combo, a string quartet with classical piano, and a performance by Cirque de la Lune are expected to perform.

Obviously this is a matter of grave importance for our country, but we are hoping that your stay will nevertheless be a peaceful one, where you can take time away from the work at hand and find occasional time to relax and recharge.

I will gladly coordinate with staff regarding dietary and other health related needs.

Sincerely,

Ron Bibben,
Hotel Manager

Bungalow

Handsome rooms

Lovely swimming pool area.

Hotel Grounds

Hotel gardens.

Restaurant

[Sensal]

---

Addressed to : New Edom
Sender : The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of The Imperial Republic of Sensal
Subject : Peace Talks
Priority : High
Encryption : Medium

---

The Imperial Republic greatly sympathizes with the country of New Edom, we understand that your nation has gone through times of great hardships with the international community providing little help. The Imperial Republic thus finds it necessary to bring a reversal to this apathy and bring New Edom into a new era of prosperity. A war can be hard upon a nation of such size and the Emperor himself has pledged himself to the revival of New Edom into a model country from which nations may look upon in awe.

The Imperial Republic shall be sending Hangyun Kim, Chairman and CEO of Ohsung Petroleum as the representative from the Imperial Republic and trust that he will present Sensalian thoughts and interests accordingly. Hangyun has met representatives from both Cantr and New Edom and we expect that this familiarity will help streamline negotiations leading toward peace and prosperity. Though he is currently located in Cantr at the assumption that the talks would be held there, Mr. Kim has stated that he would be more then willing to travel once again to fight for New Edom's peace.

We do sincerely hope that these negotiations end in a fruitful bearing between all the parties and the establishment of a single government over New Edom.

Hangul Geun, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Imperial Republic of Sensal

[New Korongo]

To: The Disputed Territories of New Edom
From: The Empire of New Korongo
Subject: Peace Conference

We here in New Korongo are very pleased to hear that peace in New Edom is on the horizon. I myself will be visiting the conference so will Field Marshal Brian Donovan and a security force. Further information about the bodyguard force will be detailed below. The entire group will arrive in three aircraft, two A400Ms and a Gulfstream IV. New Korongo would also like to offer the of the 9/1 Airmobile Regiment to assist in peace keeping duties until the conference is over (or a longer length of time if decided during the conference).

Sincerely,
George Laking,
Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Korongo


Security Force and Vehicles:
3 x Armoured Mercedes-Benz W220
20 personnel (10 to remain with aircraft)
15 x MP7
20 x FN Five Seven
5 x FN303

[Helladria]

From: The Federated Empire of Helladria Ministry of Foreign Affairs
To: William Laudner, Archbishop
Subject: Peace Conference

I am pleased to speak with you again, Archbishop Laudner. Your mediating efforts have been invaluable. Helladric peacekeeping operations have begun, and based upon reports, are proceeding well. Without your help it may have been impossible to form the cooperative atmosphere necessary for the success of our peacekeeping mission, so it is the humble opinion of this office that you are a true national hero.

To the matter at hand. Helladria will certainly send a delegation to be present at the Peace Conference. It will be headed by my counterpart in the Administration, Foreign Secretary Natazs Photi, who will be accompanied by Senator Stephe Lavrent who is already at the strategic briefing. You can also expect that they will be accompanied by representatives from the Department of Foreign Intelligence and the Department of Foreign Affairs, and attaches of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Helladric Foreign Secretary's Office. Furthermore, these six will be accompanied by 4 plain-clothes-ed security officers. We wish you good fortune in your Peace Conference. My office shall be in touch.

Kees Adrean, Minister of Foreign Affairs

[Tsardom Universalis]

Archbishop Laudner,
This is Lord James Carrington, Imperial Judge-Mediatum of the Calsandrian Imperial Mediation Delegation (CIMD). I have been sent here at the request of Tsar-Kritarch Hagrid of The Most Holy Imperial Kritarchy of Calsandria, The Tsardom Universalis to respresent the interests of our nation; its region, the Christian Republic Confederacy; and the Pro-Signatories of the Charter of The Coalition of Christian Communities (of which bi-partisan support has been given by both the New Edom Monarchists & New Edom Republicans).

The Tsardom Universalis feels that the first two topics for discussion are paramount.

The following will be presented as topics for discussion.

1.How to reconcile the desire of the Free Congress to establish a Republic with the Monarchist desire to maintain a strong Monarch as head of state.
2.The desire of leading members of each division of the country to maintain offices they feel have been earned.

The other issues can be dealt with by commissions established by a new government. We therefore wish to begin immediately facilitating the formation of a new government.

Has each party a list of criteria which must be fulfilled by any new form of government?

Without knowing any of these criteria I have the following suggestion for reforming government.
Evidently the current body of government has displeased enough of the populace that it clearly cannot continue, yet the previous system has enough support that its ideals must be accomodated into a new system. Therefore I would suggest a unicameral government where the issues of governance are decided between Members of Government (MG's) during Government Assembly. The nation would be divided for electoral purposes (such infrastructure may already exist) into areas (Seats) of equal population. Each Seat elects a Member of Government, it would seem appropriate that candidates represent either the Monarchist Party, Republic Party, a micro-party (should any exist) or be Independent of any party.

To maintain the interests of each faction, it would seem appropriate that each Government Assembly be presided over by three Tribunes. Each are required to convene the Government Assembly and possess the power of veto. Obviously two of these Tribunes would be representatives or the leader of the Monarchists and the Republicans respectively. Furthermore two Tribunes of opposite position, each with the power of veto, would often render one another moot and would fail to achieve any form of unity, resulting in failure of resolution. Therefore a third Tribune must be installed to hold the balance of power. The only clear choice is that the Archbishop or head of the Church take that position, The Archbishop is the only power that has held any semblance of control, peace and mediation between the warring factions. If the deciding vote is held by the Archbishop, who both factions support, bear no ill-will towards or see as a fair mediatory force, then the resolutions made by the Government Assembly when the other two Tribunes are at odds will reflect a fair point of view, and importantly a Christian point of view.
The tribunes could then be
-King Mark Obed of The Monarchist Party
-President William Touchstone of The Free Congress Party
-Archbishop William Laudner of The Church of New Edom

Therefore in summation, I suggest for a new government:
A GOVERNMENT ASSEMBLY convened by three TRIBUNES (representatives of The Monarchist Party, The Free Congress Party
& The Church of New Edom) and comprised of MEMBERS OF GOVERNMENT who are elected by the people to SEATS (each seat being proportionate to each other in number of voters).

In regards to topic 2, if the members of each faction who feel are warranted a position they should make themselves known so that positions may be found for them in this structure of government. Also the structure/heirachy of each faction would be helpful in determining this.

[Ossurwald]

Stadtwalda of Ossurwald Dalibor I. Calleido and his special envoy Tancred M. W. O. Valloen strolled off of the flight to Harbourtown. Their Stadtdefen bodyguards, four for Calleido and two for Valloen, scanned other passengers and other people in the airport for signs of threats or trouble.

Calleido spotted the motor pool and walked towards it, everyone following in his wake. "Such a nice country, this part," he remarked slyly to Tancred. Tancred nodded. "I suppose though, Dali, that the parts of countries untouched by civil strife are always nice," remarked the younger man to the Stadtwalda. Calleido slapped him on the back.

"I wonder if they'll meet us here, or if we just hop in one of the cars and meet them at the resort?" asked Calleido.

---

Ava Gaelish walked out of the coach section of the plane the Stadtwalda had been on. She necessarily had to go through customs, explain that she was a reporter for The Ossurwald Independent and that she was going to cover the peace conference. A couple of her things were temporarily confiscated, searched, and returned in far less orderly a method than she had packed them. In the end though, she made it through customs. She changed over a few of her marks for coppers. She had an expenses account, but The Independent was famous for having some of skimpiest expenses accounts ever. Somehow, it had also managed to acquire a reputation for quality journalism at the same time.

Ava climbed into a taxi. "What are some cheap hotels in the area?" she asked in broken Edomite.

[Vici Minerva]

New Jewell, 59 minutes, 36 seconds after telegram sent by Vici Minerva...


(OOC: In order from left to right: Mr. Blonde, Mr. Brown, Mr. White, "Machine Gun" Eddie, Governor Tarquin, Mr. Orange, and Mr. Pink)

(OOC: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qBWc8FCEEM if you'd like to know which character is which TG me and I'll explain)

A black limousine pulled up, it's chrome reflecting the asphalt, and the even blacker suits of the gentlemen emerging from the limo. The voice of an apathetic radio host scratched against the pavement. "This is KL Billy's New Edom radio's, 'Sound of the Seventies'. Here's George Barker's: 'Little Green Bag'." The voice's unsettling solemnness was slightly off with the rather happy sounding song. Though admittedly, the gentlemen coming out of the car didn't seem very "dandy".

Seven men came out, five of them wearing suits. On the left stood a tall, dark-haired man a cigarette carelessly dangled from his lip; the glare of the cigarette glaring off the side of his shades. He stood at at least six foot, maybe more. He had a set of blue eyes, though they were barely visible from his shades. He was well built, and probably in his thirties. His stride was slow and cool, his suit was opened up casually swinging from side to side, and his cigarette smoke flowed behind him like a mane of hair. He was in nearly all ways, a badass. [Mr. Blonde]

To his right was a man slightly older than him, probably in his mid-thirties to his early forties. He had a big, shit-faced smeared on his face. He had a tiny beard caught on the very type of his bottom lip. (Generally he had whatever the hell Apollo Ohno has on his face.) He had short, dark brown hair grazing his head. He too casually strolled with the rest of the men. [Mr. Brown]

The man on his right seemed to be a little more aged himself probably in his mid-forties... nonetheless a young spirit and a "wolf" at his calling. He had brown hair that too seemed aged with wisdom and experience. He had an angry glare on his face, further backing up the group's "badass" persona. His shades couldn't even hide his glare with their shield of black glass. He was the only member who was keeping it a little more professional, by keeping his suit buttoned up. Instead of a cigarette loosely hanging from his mouth, like Mr. Blonde, was a tooth pick; a wolf had finished eating a carcass, and this man was the alpha dog. [Mr. White]

A little behind Mr. White on his right-hand side was a slightly larger gentlemen, who seemed mismatched in the group of men. He had a curly set of blonde hair and bright blue eyes. He had a bright gold chain dangling from his neck, and blonde curly hair revealed from his chest because of his loose bright blue jacket. If his friends hadn't known him, they'd think he was a Jewish gangster. Of course, he shouldn't be treated as such. ["Machine gun" Eddie]

Standing right next to him was a more elderly gentleman, whom was slightly overweight. He was half-bald and (like Julius Caesar) was extremely/secretly sensitive about his lost mane. He wasn't exactly very good looking, but what he lacked in looks he made up for in wisdom, experience, and cunning. [Senator Tarquin]

A little in front of him, on his right was a rather young fellow. He had dirty-blonde, strait hair along with a striking set of blue eyes. He had a nice tan; not too dark, not too light. His stride was young and confident. He had a small smirk on his face that beckoned "yea I'll kick your ass, it's what I do, you gotta problem with it? Then you can suck either one the end of my dick or the end of my snub-nosed pistol." It was the kind of attitude that you can't help but aspire for. Though this young badass with looks seemed rather suspicious, in his own quirky way. [Mr. Orange]

The final fellow, who was the shortest of the bunch, seemed a little on edge. Sure he was smiling that brown, moustached-goatee grin, but he looked like he wasn't playing with a full deck... or at least had a bunch of bullet holes in his cards. He had a pail skin tone, matching his light blue eyes. He walked with the same quirky walk that Mr. Brown had, taking his time in his stride. [Mr. Pink]

As the limousine drove off in a hurry; dust flying up behind it. As they cooly walked away from the speeding limo, it seemed as if it was capturing a modern day spaghetti western. All time seemed to stop as the men in black walked towards New Jewell... what they brought with them though would perhaps utter in a new age in Harbourtown.

[New Edom]

OOC: I'm sorry folks, I never even saw these posts, I don't know why, so I apologize if it seemed like I was ignoring them.

[New Edom]

Archbishop Laudner's Study, 3 days before the Conference
Archbishop William Laudner liked to type out his own replies, in spite of his staff begging him not to at times. But he liked a bit of a personal touch, particularly when dealing with busy people with important duties. He liked to sign these letters personally and urged his staff to indulge an old man.

It had required a great effort to make sure that the hotel and grounds were proper looking—from landscaping to electrical power to the pools everything looked as wonderful as it had before the Civil War, at great expense. This was largely accomplished by one of New Edom’s wealthiest citizens—a relative financial minnow still in the international economic community but still a swimmer—Randall Fabian, who was New Edom’s oil tycoon, a man with his finger in many pies. He was a well tanned man with dark hair streaked with grey, craggy faced and confident, and he was quietly present at the conference, shaking hands with Archbishop Laudner as he met him and Dr. Elizabeth Salt, shaking his head and insisting on not having much attention drawn to him…yet.

Sensal...yes, Sensal doubtless was after the oil--why else send Hangyun? But he was calm and welcoming in tone.

To: Hangul Geun, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Imperial Republic of Sensal

Dear Sir,

I am very grateful for your offer of sending one of your country’s most prestigious citizens to us to help us resolve the issues at hand. Since our countries are already somewhat acquainted I am hoping that this meeting will be a productive one and will vault New Edom into a prosperous and happy future.

With warmest regards,
Archbishop William Laudner

New Korongo. It was impressive and delightful to have so prestigious a delegation sent to New Edom; with so many great nations in the ULN, so many affairs of importance and alliances to discuss, it was a mark of respect and kindness, and he felt a sense of hope as he wrote his response.

To: George Laking,
Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Korongo

The support of the ULN leader is most welcome indeed. I have been reliably informed by the Congressional and Monarchist Governments that the Airmobile troops will be welcome in supporting the peace and the cease fire; perhaps when he arrives your Field Marshal Donovan can consult with the military leaders who will be present to determine where they will be most useful? One of the things I know we need is improved security for the refugee camps until the cities can be resettled.

Many thanks and God’s blessings,

Archbishop William Laudner

Helladria. The Archbishop wondered if the people were all as noble as their men and women in uniform seemed to be. It even made him wonder at their extraordinary diplomacy and courage--could the egalitarian movement in New Edom actually have merit then?

To: Kees Adrean, Minister of Foreign Affairs

I am delighted to report the success of Helladrian forces in maintaining the cease fire in both Harbourtown and Sterry. Quite literally lives have been saved in Sterry as your forces helped a group of refugees trapped by mines to safety, providing food and medicine and a de-mining unit to get them out of their predicament. Your country epitomizes the spirit of international assistance, and we are still more grateful to hear of your attendance at the conference.

Many thanks,
Archbishop William Laudner

He rubbed aching fingers and sighed, putting his signature to the last of the letters, and calling for a secretary to send them.

[New Edom]

Archbishop Laudner,
This is Lord James Carrington, Imperial Judge-Mediatum of the Calsandrian Imperial Mediation Delegation (CIMD). I have been sent here at the request of Tsar-Kritarch Hagrid of The Most Holy Imperial Kritarchy of Calsandria, The Tsardom Universalis to respresent the interests of our nation; its region, the Christian Republic Confederacy; and the Pro-Signatories of the Charter of The Coalition of Christian Communities (of which bi-partisan support has been given by both the New Edom Monarchists & New Edom Republicans).

The Tsardom Universalis feels that the first two topics for discussion are paramount.

The following will be presented as topics for discussion.

1.How to reconcile the desire of the Free Congress to establish a Republic with the Monarchist desire to maintain a strong Monarch as head of state.
2.The desire of leading members of each division of the country to maintain offices they feel have been earned.

The other issues can be dealt with by commissions established by a new government. We therefore wish to begin immediately facilitating the formation of a new government.

Has each party a list of criteria which must be fulfilled by any new form of government?

Without knowing any of these criteria I have the following suggestion for reforming government.
Evidently the current body of government has displeased enough of the populace that it clearly cannot continue, yet the previous system has enough support that its ideals must be accomodated into a new system. Therefore I would suggest a unicameral government where the issues of governance are decided between Members of Government (MG's) during Government Assembly. The nation would be divided for electoral purposes (such infrastructure may already exist) into areas (Seats) of equal population. Each Seat elects a Member of Government, it would seem appropriate that candidates represent either the Monarchist Party, Republic Party, a micro-party (should any exist) or be Independent of any party.

To maintain the interests of each faction, it would seem appropriate that each Government Assembly be presided over by three Tribunes. Each are required to convene the Government Assembly and possess the power of veto. Obviously two of these Tribunes would be representatives or the leader of the Monarchists and the Republicans respectively. Furthermore two Tribunes of opposite position, each with the power of veto, would often render one another moot and would fail to achieve any form of unity, resulting in failure of resolution. Therefore a third Tribune must be installed to hold the balance of power. The only clear choice is that the Archbishop or head of the Church take that position, The Archbishop is the only power that has held any semblance of control, peace and mediation between the warring factions. If the deciding vote is held by the Archbishop, who both factions support, bear no ill-will towards or see as a fair mediatory force, then the resolutions made by the Government Assembly when the other two Tribunes are at odds will reflect a fair point of view, and importantly a Christian point of view.
The tribunes could then be
-King Mark Obed of The Monarchist Party
-President William Touchstone of The Free Congress Party
-Archbishop William Laudner of The Church of New Edom

Therefore in summation, I suggest for a new government:
A GOVERNMENT ASSEMBLY convened by three TRIBUNES (representatives of The Monarchist Party, The Free Congress Party
& The Church of New Edom) and comprised of MEMBERS OF GOVERNMENT who are elected by the people to SEATS (each seat being proportionate to each other in number of voters).

In regards to topic 2, if the members of each faction who feel are warranted a position they should make themselves known so that positions may be found for them in this structure of government. Also the structure/heirachy of each faction would be helpful in determining this.

Private Note to Lord James Carrington

My dear sir,

First of all, I am very impressed by your acumen, demonstrated to the other delegates at the Christian Conference. The neatness of your solution may solve many problems insofar as the form of government. One thing that may help greatly is that this is not an ethnic nor religious conflict but a political and economic one, which may help us enormously. Thank you for your suggestion. I will certainly recommend it should nothing better present itself.

- Archbishop William Laudner

[New Edom]

A fair haired woman, attractively dressed in a blazer and blue skirt with discreet stockings and low heels approached; nearby a small squad of policemen in formal dressed snapped to attention in the background. A band struck up an anthem appropriate to the rival of Ossurwald’s head of state, and she stood respectfully and quietly till it was over. “Stadtwalda Calleidos, I’m so honoured to meet you. I am Dr. Elizabeth Salt, the Director of the National Refugee Council; I’m sorry we couldn’t have you met by either head of government, but we didn’t want to put you in an awkward position. Welcome to New Edom! I thought I might answer any questions you might have on the ride to the hotel…”

Meanwhile, Ava found herself in a small taxi that seemed to be driven by an ancient man with wrinkles like folds in an old leather chair and white hair, wearing a suit that seemed too big for him. He gave her a cheerful gap toothed grin like a jack-o-lantern and said, “Yes, this is a taxi! Cheap hotel, yes, okay!”

Ava found herself being driven from the airport to a checkpoint; a group of neat and sleek looking Helladrian peacekeepers were in control there with some New Edomite counterparts perched on a BRDM armoured car, chatting with them and smoking; they looked rather villainous and peered at her curiously. Through the checkpoint and along the road she found that there was a fair amount of rubble and some ruined vehicles that the taxi neatly dodged around. They passed a small market area where people were buying and selling things on tables and occasionally wandering in and out of shops. There was a faded white brick building with “Hotel” written on it in some various languages. Nearby a pair of camouflage BUD dressed soldiers, looking rather unshaven and mud spattered, with gas masks around their necks, strolled by casually holding AK-74s. The taxi driver stopped the cab and asked Ava for 15 coppers. Which was worth about 2.5 marks.

[New Edom]

Delegates who went directly to the hotel found that each delegation was assigned bungalows or rooms as they had indicated preference, and that the sun was warm and pleasant—it seemed so distant from any element of Civil War, but of course all could see from the airport the glimpses of shelled buildings and ruins even along the airport road leading past the industrial area and the harbour. The Vici Minervan delegation saw a convoy of 2 ½ ton trucks carrying body bags. The Ossurwalders saw a group of little children casually bouncing up and down on the propellers of a downed Monarchist helicopter, two of them hurling rocks at it. As the delegation from Tsardom Universalis was driven to the hotel a young woman holding a baby, with an obviously recently shaved head stood by the road looking torn between stoicism and being forlorn, jogging the baby up and down casually.

At the hotel the fresh smell of the sea and of the gardens lingered in the air, and attractive young men and women in buttoned vests and white shirts with trim dark red slacks or skirts as needs be were there, looking happy to be there.

By the pool three beautiful women were enjoying themselves—dark haired Princess Rebecca, the blonde Suzanne Kemp (Fineberg’s lead in the new Aida, and Prince James Obed’s mistress), and the red haired Countess of Lalery, who was baby talking a little fluffy dog that panted in the late afternoon sun. They were all wearing light sundresses over their least provocative but still delightful bathing suits and enjoying their drinks. Nearby, husbands and lovers were on the tennis court, slamming balls at one another. The whole idea was for the arrival of the guests to be relaxing, lacking in ceremony on purpose, friendly and cheerful.

The Archbishop’s cadre of young Jesuits were busy keeping the two New Edomite delegations apart. Let them not meet until the eyes of prestigious foreigners were upon them. It had been hard enough to get them here without personal vendettas being settled. The Archbishop, secretly, was perturbed by the letter from Lord James Carrington, and had two private meetings, one with Prince Philip Tubal-Cain, the other with Sif Finnhald, to discuss it.

“He wants the King to accept equality with Touchstone? Touchstone betrayed him. The King is prepared to forgive him, not promote him.” Philip had said, his voice dry, eyes cold.

“We’re winning the war,” Sif pointed out. “Why can’t we just hold general elections and have General Obed step down?”

Why, why why, the Archbishop thought wearily. He murmured a prayer to himself as he walked into the lobby and glanced around one more time. It looked modern, charming, dignified but enjoyable—open and airy, brightly coloured, uncluttered and relaxing. He hoped the delegates would find it so and feel well disposed, and that it would help restore a peace in his troubled land. Many churches in a flush of ecumenicism were praying across the country for peace. He knew some were not, and he prayed that God would forgive them. He could easily forgive Tubal-Cain and Finnhald for being stiff necked—he had almost refused to accept Simon Crove being part of the Congressional delegation. It was hard to forgive Touchstone that. He had made himself smile pleasantly as the old strange and bitter man arrived, and was determined to keep an eye on him.

[Tsardom Universalis]

Now that he had delivered his even-handed suggestions to the public eye, he could work on secretly sending word to his leader's friend in need embroiled in civil war.
***
To King Mark Obed,

The Tsar-Kritarch of the Calsandrian Tsardom Universalis sends his best wishes to Your Royal Highness. He has heard of (and indeed pre-empted) your ill-liking to the proposal made by the Calsandrian Imperial Mediation Delegation he has sanctioned.

He feels for you and understands completely the gravity of violation of sovereignty implied by the suggestions made with regard to your rebel rival. But bids you remember that there is a significant opposition to Your Majesty and that concessions are going to have to be made in order for the continuation of The Crown.

We ask in regard to our suggested form of government how we can give concessions to appease these rebels just enough, but sweeten the deal for Your Majesty in keeping The Crown with plenty of political weight to throw around?

The Tsar wishes it be known that he is ever your friend and that he can offer your house asylum should things go awry.

Sincerest regards,
Lord James Carrington, Imperial Judge-Mediatum of the Calsandrian Imperial Mediation Delegation (CIMD)
***

[Vici Minerva]

More dirt flew up as a truck carrying body bags went by; the smell of charred flesh now mixing with the sounds of Little Green Bag. The aroma of the dead filled the gentlemen's nostrils. They hadn't even flinched, and even Mr. Blonde sadistically smiled, while Mr. White still remained with his serious scowl. They finally got to the shiny doors of the New Jewell. Mr. Blonde finished his smoke and threw it against the side of the pavement; Mr. White threw his toothpick. Senator walked ahead of them and in sotto voce replied:

"Alright, so here's the Lord Marshal's orders: We're here to act as 'diplomats in the conference. I'll mostly handle that shit, I know you RAINBOW guys don't really wanna get involved with all this diplomacy bull shit, cause I know that ain't your specialty. What I do know your specialty is, is that you're fucking cold-blooded killers." They all shrugged and looked up, agreeing that they pretty much were. "So here's your briefing: You're hear to act as assassins. Assassins that don't exist. You'll be hunting down key members of the Harbour town military, and key members of the government; either blaming it on the Free Congress or making it appear as if they met untimely deaths. Your first target, is King Mark Obed, whom as forbade us to move any farther in Raith Immel. Now the Lord Marshal said to wait a second until he could convince Obed to let us pass, if it doesn't work out he wants you to bust a cap in that fucker until his head is reduced to a bloody pulp. Now let's go in there, and act... diplomatic..." Tarquin threw open the doors and they all poured in. They saw Archbishop Laudner and they walked intently towards him.

"Greetings Archbishop," said Tarquin. "We're the diplomats of Vici Minerva; I'm Senator Tarquin. May we have a discussion with you before we proceed?" Tarquin said, using all of his politesse. The men in suits just quietly stood there seemingly out of place. "These men are my bodyguards..." Tarquin announced to the Archbishop. "I hope you don't find them a bother..."

[New Edom]

The Archbishop gently smiled. "Of course, Senator. There is, I believe, a buffet lunch set up in the conference room--if you don't mind, perhaps your bodyguards could find themselves something to eat, and we can discuss things in private..."

Princess Rebecca removed her sunglasses, leaning back in her wicker chair, and said with faint amusement, “Did you see those guys coming in—they looked like a bunch of crooks.”

“They probably are crooks if they’re pols or corps.” Countess Lalery replied. She was reading a magazine that was showing some modeling shots she had done when that had been her career and felt that she looked even better now.

“Would you say that of your husband too?” Rebecca asked her, raising a graceful eyebrow.

“Are you kidding—you know him well enough,” laughed Countess Lalery. “Wow…look how fat my thighs look in that spread…” she said, chucking the magazine at Rebecca.

[Ossurwald]

Calleido opened the doors to his rooms, as his Stadtdefen searched under everything. Next door, Tancred Valloen was also searching his rooms for any problems that might possibly arise. Calleido peered sullenly at the closet. "Goddamn resort," he muttered. He placed his suitcase on the bed, then walked across to Tancred's room. Tancred was carefully measuring out how many steps it was from his bed to each exit. One of the Stadtdefen assigned to him was looking on approvingly.

"Figured it all out?" asked Calleido.

"The room's a good size," said Tancred, his pronounced limp. "Do you think this talk will break down like the other one?"

Calleido thought for a second. "It could be probable. But at least this time we'll get to meet some leaders face to face. Speaking of which..." Calleido walked back into his room and put on his watch. "I'm going to go sit in the Congressional side and see who shows up. Why don't you mosey over to the pool and find the Monarchists?" Calleido left to head towards where the Congressional delegation was

Tancred nodded.

A few moments later, he was placing his cane down at the edge of the pool while he slowly lowered himself into the water. Swimming helped him forget that his left leg was a ruin. But he slowly was noting the faces that were around him as he swam.

---

Ava had paid the taxi driver and paid for a room. It was roughly what she'd expected. The mattress was decidedly uncomfortable, but then, so was the comforter. Anyways, she just needed a place to sleep, not to live. She grabbed her camera and other things and left the hotel to find some way to begin the story for the Independent.

[Vici Minerva]

The Archbishop gently smiled. "Of course, Senator. There is, I believe, a buffet lunch set up in the conference room--if you don't mind, perhaps your bodyguards could find themselves something to eat, and we can discuss things in private..."

About half the men left in a hurry, for they were hungry. Mr. White on the other held his ground and didn't budge. Before Laudner could say anything about White's presence, Tarquin quickly replied. "He's the head of my security, and he always stays with me..." White flashed an extremely weak smile and continued to remain silent. "Now, what shall we discuss?"

[New Edom]

The buffet in the conference hall was very nice. There were fresh succulent fruits from Raith Immel (peaches, cherries, mangoes and grapes), game pastries, sausages of various kinds smoked fish, breads, cheeses, fruit tarts and custard tarts. Very observant patrons would probably notice that the waiting staff discreetly stole some occasionally.

What few among the guests would notice is that some of the hotel’s staff had, beneath hair that covered ears wires disappearing into their clothing, and that some were quietly and coldly observant. Officers of the Congressional Council Police had infiltrated the hotel’s staff in order to have a more vigilant watch over the conference. Through the large ground to floor windows that led onto a patio deck those chowing down at the buffet could see the pool for the Monarchist side of the hotel, complete with the limping Tancred heading into the pool.

Princess Rebecca leaned forward curiously. What kind of man was he, that with that horrible scar on his leg he’d go swimming in front of everyone? Prince James, sweating, dark patches under his white shirt, along with Colonel Horvath, came strolling over. “Hey babes,” he said, leaning in and kissing her ear. She smiled; her two favourite men in the world right beside her comforted her even as it stirred her to dare to disturb the universe.

“Who’s that? The guy with the scarred leg?”

Prince James had a memory like a computer for people—he was just too lazy to really enjoy politics. “Him? That’s Tancred Valloen, remember?”

Rebecca smiled. “Of course…what a strange man he must be.”

James nodded. “It’s a strange world, my dear. I’m going to shower and then have a swim; I guess the delegates must be arriving.”

“Yes…I’m going to have a swim as well,” she murmured, and rose, slipped out of her sundress, revealing a red bikini that was just daring enough to excitingly suggest the curves of her hips and breasts but was not totally revealing. She always found it amusing that you could get away with this kind of thing, with being virtually naked in the right context in public, but another context and it was shocking. Like…

It was exactly like some of the most remote Elwe tribes, where the men only covered their penis with a kind of wooden sheath—shaped like a penis—and without them they were naked, while the women had to wear a little girdle of carved beads or else THEY were naked. Some anthropologist had found that out when he went swimming totally bare and shocked the tribe he was visiting; they were as shocked as Victorian matrons seeing a man’s bare chest. Amazing, humanity. She stepped gracefully down into the water and deliberately swam near Tancred.

Meanwhile, in another room, Archbishop Laudner wearily sat in a chair and looked at the Senator. “I’m sorry, you said you wanted to talk to me. So it’s your ball, Senator Tarquin.”

The garden area that led to the Free Congress’ residences was guarded at all approaches by the Council Police, these ones were of a Uniformed Detail and wore black leather jackets, sunglasses, black boots and black slacks. They were tough young men and women who had been through the hell of training at Stonehaven and were experienced in the field in counter-terrorism.

President William Touchstone, who was rather casually dressed, without a tie, was walking through the garden, feeling refreshed. He looked around at his surroundings; nearby Major Harcourt of the Council Police, elfin and merry, was talking with two plainclothes CP security. John Crowl was talking on his cellphone. The President was enjoying a quiet moment. He knew this conference was a hell of an expense, and in a way kind of obscene when there were hundreds of thousands of people in New Edom without running water, soap, regular meals or decent clothing. But it was also the only way OUT of Hell. He looked up and raised his eyebrows as he saw Foreign Minister Sif Finnhald in lulu lemon workout gear walking towards him trailing Mr. Shiny.

“Hey Sif…is this what you’re wearing at the conference?” he said, grinning.

“Haha, Billy. No, I got invited to Feminopolis, which I’m kind of excited about.” Sif turned around, and muttered, “Aw, shit, this is not how I wanted to meet the Stadtwalda…”

[New Edom]

As Ava walked out of her hotel she was almost sprayed with muddy water by a camouflage painted pickup truck with a .50 caliber machinegun in it; the men in the back wore sunglasses and were generally olive or dark skinned. One of them casually leaning on the cab, holding an AK-74, grinned at her and touched the brim of his helmet as the truck roared away, honking loudly to scatter pedestrians. The little market square had once had a fountain as the centerpiece; whatever heroic or inspiring statue had once stood in it was half gone, a pair of bare legs—possibly a man’s—standing up conntected to nothing. A small group of girls were sitting on the edge of the fountain, applying makeup and chatting, sharing a cigarette. Going the opposite way of the militia truck was a bus, farting and belching exhaust, full of weary looking people; it paused to let a group of nuns shepherding children go by.

A kid, maybe between ten or twelve, wearing a tattered jean jacket, a shirt that had Cola in faded letters and basketball shorts as well as oversized shoes with newspaper stuffed into them approached her. “Hey lady,” he said, “You need a guide? I’m Jim.”

[Ossurwald]

Calleido smiled at President Touchstone and the people standing next to him. His Stadtdefen warily eyed the Council Police.

"Ah, Mr. Touchstone," he said, shaking hands. "And I believe this is Ms. Finnhald?" He shook hands with her as well. He stared at her workout gear and Touchstone's clothes. "I've got some less starchy clothing than this suit, but I'm not sure it's on the level with Ms. Finnhald's standards," he smiled. He looked to the other man. "I'm sorry, I don't know you, sir. Dalibor I. Calleido, Stadtwalda of Ossurwald."

---

Tancred finished another lap in the pool. He paused to tread water, and became aware of the woman in the red bathing suit next to him. "Ma'am..." he said by way of hello. "I'm sorry, I don't your name."

---

Ava snapped pictures as she walked.

Ava stared at Jim. "I'm Ava. How much do you charge as a guide? And who can you take me to?"

[Tsardom Universalis]

The buffet in the conference hall was very nice. There were fresh succulent fruits from Raith Immel (peaches, cherries, mangoes and grapes), game pastries, sausages of various kinds smoked fish, breads, cheeses, fruit tarts and custard tarts.

All Calsandrians have a love for fine food, fine drink and fine people. As such Lord Carrington was talking with a couple of random charismatic-looking delegates he had probably just met (and his five Imperial Chancellery agents who were relaxed yet ever watchful) as he bent over the buffet table with a small plate eyeing out his next delicacy, of course one choice alone couldn't be reached, so he took two...and that one. He could tell this whole situation was immensely political, with tensions at every corner. All that was left was to play the game until there was an interest to preserve.

[New Edom]

Sif blushed but shook his hand firmly. “I’m sorry for my manner of dress, your Excellency, but I had just received an important communication in the middle of my workout. It’s nice to meet you, I hope to meet you again when I’m a little better dressed.”

William Touchstone had a friendly grin and in spite of obvious weariness gave a welcoming handshake. “Stadtwalda Calleidos, you are one of the world leaders I’ve most wanted to meet. I’m sorry we could not welcome you under happier circumstances. This is my executive aide, John Crowl; he’s actually the son of my mentor and teacher at Lookinghaven.”

John Crowl was actually wearing a handsome tropical suit and was a sober looking dark haired young man with a pleasant and quiet smile.

Touchstone went on, “Shall we sit? I understand, forgive me for being blunt but I understand that you took a bit of a blow on the chin with that last labour bill. And we’re giving some very serious thought to a note sent to us by the delegation from Tsardom Universalis that may solve the executive government problem….” He went on to detail the plan proposed by Lord James Carrington, curious about the Stadtwalda’s thoughts. This was Touchstone’s way—he was curious about every opinion, interested in every pattern of thought, wanting to explore every option.

In the pool on the other side of the hotel, Rebecca began to tread water beside him, flicking dark hair away from her face. “I’m Princess Rebecca Obed. It’s nice to meet you…and you’re Tancred Valloen, right?”

Meanwhile, outside a faded hotel in Harbourtown, a boy named Jim stood talking to a journalist named Ava. “I can take you to where you want to go,” he said cheerfully, “I know Harbourtown like the back of my hand. Fifty Marks.”

[New Edom]

The buffet in the conference hall was very nice. There were fresh succulent fruits from Raith Immel (peaches, cherries, mangoes and grapes), game pastries, sausages of various kinds smoked fish, breads, cheeses, fruit tarts and custard tarts.

All Calsandrians have a love for fine food, fine drink and fine people. As such Lord Carrington was talking with a couple of random charismatic-looking delegates he had probably just met (and his five Imperial Chancellery agents who were relaxed yet ever watchful) as he bent over the buffet table with a small plate eyeing out his next delicacy, of course one choice alone couldn't be reached, so he took two...and that one. He could tell this whole situation was immensely political, with tensions at every corner. All that was left was to play the game until there was an interest to preserve.

Not far off from Lord Carrington, he could see that a quietly tense conversation was taking place between two opposite numbers--Prince Philip Tubal-Cain quietly whispering to General Jonathan Abiathar, the Congressional Chief of Staff. Their respective bodyguards eyed one another like junkyard dogs from different junkyards. The Monarchist Foreign Minister looked shocking grey and deflated, he looked like a man whose inner fire was sheer will, while Abiathar looked tanned and lean and tough in his class A style uniform, holding a tray of pastries and fruit he munched on occasionally. Prince Philip Tubal-Cain sipped from a glass of wine almost absent mindedly. After a moment General Abiathar glancing around approached Lord Carrington and murmured quietly,

"Lord Carrington, I'm General Jonathan Abiathar, the Congressional Chief of the General Staff. Just a word in your ear. There's a concern--we got this information from the Monarchists--about the Vici Minervan delegation. They sent an entire Tank Corps across our northern border on a supposed fact finding mission." He smiled grimly. "A tank corps. They've halted in the middle of nowhere at a logging town called Brightwater which is in the northernmost region of our province of Raith Immel. What I'd like to know is this: how do you think it would go over if we brought up our concern at the Christian Conference? Our objections about this action being a violation of our sovereignty are being subjected to sophistry and prevarication."