Diplomatic Relations [IC/Arthropol]

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/04/17
Time: 08:00 PM UTC -5
Location: Presidential residence, Lexian, The Dreanliners

The presidential residence is full of bustle and hustle. President Jozef is up and about, preparing for heading to the airport.

In the kitchen of the residence, President Jozef is having a glass of ginger ale when his assistant Eric comes in. "Mr. President. You are scheduled for departure at Paradise Gate in an hour and a half. A9-001 is all set loaded, fuelled and ready to go. Flight crew is waiting at the plane for your arrival. "

The president sets his cup down. "Bring the car around to the front. My bags are packed upstairs and are ready to go." He tells Eric, in his usual heavy polish accent, as he goes upstairs to change into his presidential suit.

15 minutes later, the bags are in the trunk and the president steps into the limousine, along with Eric, and both his Chief of Staff, Charles, and his Chief of Security, Andrew. "Off to the airport." And with that, the presidential convoy is off towards the airport.


Date:11/04/17
Time: 10:00 PM UTC -5
Location: Paradise Gate International Airport, Lexian, The Dreanliners

At the airport, the presidential jet is waiting for them on the cargo ramp. It is a Boeing 747, the presidential jet registered A9-001. It is the main presidential transport and it was ferried to Paradise Gate International Airport from Dreamliner International Airport yesterday afternoon and was prepped overnight for the mission of diplomacy.

The presidential convoy arrives at the plane, and the president steps out of the limousine, along with Eric, Charles and Andrew. The captain and flight crew of Northern Flight are waiting on the airstairs, and the security detail are waiting for him and they salute, and he salutes them as well. His bags are loaded in the cargo hold of the plane as the president climbs the airstairs and comes to the captain of the flight. "Good day captain, is all in readiness?"

"Yes Mr. President. All is ready, if everything goes to schedule, we should be in the air within the hour." He tells the president, while showing him the tablet with the flight manifest.

"Excellent. Well then, let's get underway." President Jozef chuckles a bit as everyone boards the plane and takes their seats.

At 10:30 PM UTC -5, the aircraft door is shut and the four turbofan engines are started on the massive jumbo jet and they taxi to the runway, under the callsign of "Dreamliner One".

At 10:45 PM UTC -5, Takeoff clearance is granted. "Dreamliner One, you are cleared for takeoff, runway 05, once airborne, turn right heading 090 and contact departure." ATC tells them over the radio. "Roger, Dreamliner One cleared for takeoff runway 05. We are beginning our takeoff roll." The captain replies as he advances the 4 engine throttles as the plane begins its takeoff roll. Inside, the president is looking at the ground pass by the plane. Around 3/4 of the runway, the plane, heavily laden with fuel, staggers into the air. The President sees the Lexian skyline in the distance to the left as the plane climbs higher and turns right on the departure vector.

Inside the plane, the president is speaking with Eric. "I hope this diplomatic mission goes well. Are transport arrangements set?" The president asks, holding a can of ginger ale.

Eric looks through the tablet. "Yes sir. We are supposed to land at Capitale AAFB with Arthropol City International Airport as the alternate. The Arthropol Government is awaiting our arrival."

"Good. Might as well relax on the flight there." The president tells everyone as he sips his ginger ale. The plane has left Lexian behind and is approaching cruising altitude on it's way to Arthropol.

[Arthropol]

6:47 PM, UTC+1, Bordeaux Airbase
The Rolls-Royce engines on the two Eurofighter Blizzard fighters roared on full afterburner as the jets took off in formation. The advanced air superiority fighters took off on their important mission, to escort the President of the Dreamliners. The fighters, speeding at Mach 2.4, quickly reached the Boeing 747. They then slowed down, and began to contact the plane.

8:00 PM, UTC +1, Prime Ministerial Residence
Prime Minister Alard sat on the couch, watching the news. It's late in the day, but her day is far from over. Suddenly, a noise could be heard, coming closer and closer to the top of the residence. Prime Minister Alard turned off the TV, and walked up to the helipad. She walked on, final destination, Capitale AAFB.

8:11 PM, UTC +1, Capitale AAFB
The government officials and the airmen watched as the Boeing 747 touched down in the sunset. The Blizzards, close behind, landed in formation on the runway. The Presidential 747 taxied to the tarmac, through the water cannon of the two fire trucks. The boarding stairs were moved to the plane's door as it opened, revealing President Jozef. He walked down, and onto the carpet, saluting the National Guard soldiers as the national anthems of Arthropol and The Dreamliners were played by the Air Force band. President Jozef and Prime Minister Alard did the traditional la bise, shook hands, and headed to the helicopter. Their day was far from over, they were to head to the Royal Palace for dinner with King Pierre de Bourbon IV, and head to the Prime Ministerial residence for the night. The next day, they would start establishing formal relations.

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/05/17
Time: 08:20 UTC +1
Location: Royal Palace of King Pierre de Bourbon IV

After a short trip, and a small flying detour to view the skyline from the air, the helicopter landed on the lawn of the Royal Palace. As the engines powered down and the rotors came to a stop, President Jozef and Prime Minister Alard both stepped out of the helicopter, onto the sprawling grounds that surrounded the Royal Palace. King Pierre de Bourbon IV and a few of his soldiers came out to greet them both. They did the traditional la bise, and shook hands. "Welcome to Arthropol, Mr. President. How was your flight in?" King Pierre had asked, as they began walking to the Palace.

"The flight was fine. It was smooth from Lexian to here. Your nation is lovely, both on the ground and in the air." The President replied.

He looked around the lavish grounds, with beautiful greenery and landscaping. Topiary hedges lined the path leading to the Palace as they continued walking. The prime Minister followed behind them both, and so did the king's security detail.

[Arthropol]

5/11/2017, 20:23 hours, Le Palais Royal, Arthropol City
King Pierre IV, PM Alard, and President Jozef stepped into the entrance hall of the palace, along with the Royal Guard. Along the wall were pictures of all the Kings and Queens of Arthropol ever, dating back to 1792 with relatives of Louis XVI of France. They would be attending a royal banquet. They walked into the dining room, where Queen Lucie, and the three princes and princesses were already inside. They could smell the wonderful smell of the entree being prepared as they sat down and talked.

5/11/2017, 23:02 hours, Prime Ministerial Residence, Arthropol City
The two leaders settled in to their rooms as they prepared to sleep, Jozef in the guest room, and Alard in the master room. IT would be a long day tomorrow, setting up diplomatic relations, visiting museums, schools and other things, and watching the Le Classique football match at the night.

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/05/17
Time: 11:20 PM UTC +1
Location: Prime Ministerial Residence, Arthropol City, Arthropol

Crickets could be heard in the errie silence of the city asleep. It was surprising. President Jozef had the window open to let a cooling breeze into the room. It was quite comfortable outside. Jozef didnt even need to use the heater or air conditioning. He remained awake, hoping tomorrow would go smoothly, and hoping that he wouldn't mess things up between their nations. He knew diplomacy but was unfamiliar with Arthropolian customs. He did not want a simple mistake or issue to lead to a bigger problem. He decided to try his best with Arthropolian customs and hoped things would go smoothly for tomorrow and the remainder of his visit to Arthropol. And with that, he slowly drifted off to sleep.

[Arthropol]

Monday, 6 November 2017
13°C, 26 km visibility, 69% humidity

0530 hours, Prime Ministerial Residence
Prime Minister Alard woke up. 5:30 was early for most people, but it was nothing to her. She went downstairs, still in her pyjamas, and began to prepare breakfast, consisting of croissants, orange juice, coffee, fresh Provençal cheese, and baguette slices. She looked at her daily schedule in her phone.

8:00 Establish Embassy and Consulates
9:30 President Jozef address Parliament
10:30 Visit Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations
13:00 Lunch at Provence Restaurant
14:00 Visit Arondissement 1 School
15:00 Visit World War II Memorial
15:30 President Jozef speech at WW2 Memorial
16:30 Inspection of soldiers at Capitale Barracks
18:00 Meet players at Stade Vélodrome
19:30 Game kickoff, dinner during game in box seats

She and President Jozef sure had a busy day. She sat in the kitchen, watching the news, waiting for President Jozef to wake up.

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/06/17
Time: 06:00 AM UTC +1
Location: Prime Ministerial Residence, Arthropol City, Arthropol

When 6 AM came around, President Jozef was awake and out of bed. The weather was nice outside, if not a tad chilly. He went downstairs in his pajamas to get himself a cup of coffee. He saw PM Alard making breakfast when he stepped in the room. "Oh, my apologies. I did not realize you were already awake." President Jozef said, trying to be as gentlemanly as he could. Usually at the presidential residence in Lexian, It was just him, and then his staff would arrive later in the morning for the daily schedule. His phone had gone off shortly after. It was Eric, sending him a copy of the day's schedule that PM Alard's assistant had sent him earlier in the morning. "Looks like a busy day for both of us. Should be quite enjoyable." He said, getting a cup of fresh coffee, some Provençal cheese, and baguette slices. PM Alard had changed the channel to the Arthropol News Network (ANN). News of the president's visit had sparked political debates and discussions on a few local news channels among the usual AM news.

Date:11/06/17
Time: 07:30 AM UTC +1
Location: Prime Ministerial Residence, Arthropol City, Arthropol

After talking for a while, both leaders went to their respected quarters to get dressed. Both leaders were dressed shortly after and ready to go about their busy day. The car was outside, waiting for them as they both departed for the city. They had left early to beat the AM traffic of citizens going about their day.

[Arthropol]

6/11/2017, Monday
14°C, 25 km visibility, 65% humidity

Arthropol Parliament, 7:47 AM
The two leaders stepped out of the car after the short drive to Parliament. Today, it was longer than usual, with a small delay on the metro. They walked into the Parliament building, a modern white building, with a flag on top. Both were well dressed, with Jozef wearing a suit and blue tie, and Alard wearing a blue dress. They stepped inside. Alard said, "We should go to the Foreign Minister's office, to establish embassies and consulates."

Office of the Foreign Minister, 7:47 AM
Adam Lebas was on his computer, reading about The Dreamliners. He had heard a lot about the nation, especially from Deputy Prime Minister Rosseau. He was ready to meet President Jozef, to set up an embassy and maybe even some consulates.
7:54 AM
Prime Minister Alard and President Jozef stepped inside the office. Alard said, "Good morning Adam, here I have President Jozef of the Dreamliners." Foreign Minister Lebas replied, "Good morning, President Jozef, nice to meet you," as they shook hands, and started talking about embassies and consulates.

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/06/17
Time: 09:15 AM UTC +1
Location: Office of the Foreign Minister, Arthropol Parliament, Arthropol City, Arthropol

After a straightforward discussion, it was agreed that The Dreamliners would set up an embassy and consulate in Arthropol and Arthropol would set up an embassy and consulate in The Dreamliners. They were continuing discussions when PM Alard cut the conversation short. It was 9:15 and President Jozef needed to prepare for his speech addressing Parliament at 9:30.

"Oh my, I didn't realize the time. Foreign Minister Lebas, It was a pleasure speaking with you in establishing relations between our two nations. And I invite you to come visit The Dreamliners and experience the nation yourself. My invitation extends to you as well Prime Minister Alard." President Jozef told them.

"I look forward to visiting your nation." Adam replied. They shook hands again and both PM Alard and President Jozef left the office to go to the main hall of parliament.

[Arthropol]

9:30 AM, House of Representatives
Prime Minister Alard stood at the lecturn and began, "Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Today marks a historic point in Arthropol-Dreamlinersian relations with the start of diplomatic relations. I invite President Jozef to speak here today. For those of you not proficient in English, a translation can be heard in your headphones." She stepped down as President Jozef stepped up, not showing any signs of nervousness as he opened his mouth. He would have to be quick if he wanted to be on time to the museum, but priorities come first.

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/06/17
Time: 09:31 AM UTC +1
Location: House of Representatives, Arthropol Parliament, Arthropol City, Arthropol

President Jozef began his speech. “Good morning, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Arthropol Parliament. Today marks a day in history between our two respected nations. A day of which we are not nations separated, but nations united, as allies and friends; united in the interests of peace and prosperity between our two nations. In a world of increased tensions, diplomacy is essential to ensure peace, violence solved nothing. It is in our best interests to ensure peace among nations. I had come to Arthropol to solidify diplomatic relations between our two nations, for I know that it is better to have friends and allies, than enemies and ones against you. I am a firm believer in peace. This is a new time for both of our nations as we think of the generations to come. It is through democracy, peace and diplomacy that we ensure peace in our time.” President Jozef continues his speech to the parliament and a short while later, he concludes his speech. “Those who fail to learn history are doomed to repeat it; therefore democracy cannot succeed without learning from our past. Let this be a marker in history as we take into account the generations after. As one man had said, the future begins today, not tomorrow.” President Jozef backed away from the lecturn as the members of parliament had stood in thunderous applause.

Date:11/06/17
Time: 10:00 AM UTC +1
Location: House of Representatives, Arthropol Parliament, Arthropol City, Arthropol

As both PM Alard and President Jozef were stepping out of the hall, shaking the hands of the various representatives. As they got outside, they were mobbed by the press outside the door to Parliament. Photographers, journalists and news media swarmed them both on the steps as they tried making their way to the government car to go to the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations. President Jozef was bombarded with questions by the journalists and news media, but couldn’t answer them all.

[Arthropol]

[img]https://www.scia.net/sites/default/files/references/mucem-5.jpg[/img
10:30, 6 November 2017, Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations, Arthropol City
The two leaders looked at the impressive architecture of the museum. President Jozef got out his phone to take a picture, as PM Alard applied a fresh coat of red lipstick. They went into the museum, filled with exhibits and artefacts from all around the Mediterranean. They could spend hours on end there, but their time today was limited,


13:02, Provence Restaurant, Arthropol
Jozef and Alard sat at their table at Provence Restaurant as the waiter brought the menus. “It’s a pleasure to meet both of you,” said the young waiter. Being a Provençal woman, Alard ordered Provençal Rosé wine, with some fresh cooked fish, and later a Bombe glaceé for dessert. She could see Jozef thinking what to order, out of the many choices on the menu. They could see the beautiful view outside, from the skyscrapers in the city to the airport on an island, to the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.

OOC: A menu can be found here- viewtopic.php?f=6&t=420737
It is incomplete, just google Provençal dishes if you want to order something else.

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/06/17
Time: 13:02 AM UTC +1
Location: Provence Restaurant, Arthropol City, Arthropol

After looking over the menu, President Jozef settled on the Cassoulet for the entree, a Bombe glaceé for dessert and a glass of Vin Rosé wine. He never really drank alcoholic drinks, but this was the exception. They looked out at the beautiful view that lay before them as the waiter had gotten the drinks for them both. "The view is absolutely stunning. From the skyscrapers in the city to the airport in the distance, to the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Not even photographs could do any justice for a view like this. You yourself look nice as well." He told PM Alard. Soon the food was brought to them and they both enjoyed a lovely meal. At the end, the waiter brought President Jozef a bottle of their finest Provençal Rosé wine, as a gift. President Jozef was about to pull out his card to pay for the bottle when the waiter stopped him. “No no. This is a gift to you. It is not every day we get a visiting dignitary from another nation. Enjoy, the wine is on us,” said the young waiter. "Well, merci beaucoup." the president replied. After they paid for their meal, they stepped to the car to go to their next destination. PM Alard was surprised that he spoke french to the waiter. "You speak French?" she asked him. "Very little, but I know enough to get by." He replied as they stepped into the car and went off towards the city.

[Arthropol]

13:47, Outside Provence Restaurant
The leaders talked with each other, as the car left. They could hear the distinctive hum of the electric car. Most people would be feeling a bit off their best, having just had alcohol, but having lived in Arthropol for 31 years, Alard was used to it. They were heading to the school in Arondissement 1, to visit a Year 1 French class.


13:54, Arondissement 1 School
Alard and Jozef walked up the steps to the 5 storey glass building when they were greeted by an old man, about 75 years old, the principal. He hugged Alard and did la bise, and shook hands with Jozef. "Welcome back Claire! I remember you when you were just 4 years old, starting in Pre-Prep. I was your chemistry teacher in Year 7 remember? Best student in the class!" He said to Alard. He then said to Jozef, "Welcome to Arthropol, Monsieur Jozef. I hope you enjoy your trip and it's a pleasure to meet you." They walked in to the classroom. The teacher saw them and said, "Bonjour Mademoiselle Alard et Monsieur Jozef," which the children copied. The teacher began with her French class, learning about greetings, and manners, which President Jozef found very interesting, and found himself saying the phrases along with the children, with the teacher even letting him practice conversation with the kids. At 14:30 sharp, Alard and Jozef left the room, to get ready to go to the Memorial Statue, the highest point in Arthropol for the daily memorial service for the fallen of World War I and II.

15:00, Memorial Statue
The view at the Memorial Statue was amazing. They were on top of a seaside cliff, and could see all of Arthropol City. But they were not here to enjoy the view. The National Anthem played, as fighter jets flew overhead, releasing coloured smoke in the colours of Arthropol, France, the Commonwealth, the USSR, USA and other allied nations. The soldiers of all 5 services marched proudly to minor key march music. They stood still as a veteran gave a speech, like every day. But now, it was Jozef’s turn.
15:30
Joseph stood at the pedestal, and looked around as he prepared to give his speech. He looked at the veterans, the citizens and the soldiers. He began, Good afternoon, veterans, servicemen, servicewomen and citizens of Arthropol....

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/06/17
Time: 15:30 AM UTC +1
Location: Memorial Statue, Arthropol City, Arthropol
“Good afternoon, veterans, servicemen, servicewomen and citizens of Arthropol. Here we remember the lives of the men and women who paid the ultimate price to ensure peace and to end the wars and the violence that cost hundreds of thousands their lives by unwanted aggression between nations. Here we remember the ones lost, sons and daughters, husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, and siblings, all family we hold very close to our hearts. In both wars, families lost loved ones in the service. Having family that served in WWII makes this personal to me. When the wars ended, peace had returned, but memories remained in the turmoil left behind as we were left with rebuilding our nations. Even in today’s modern world, we cannot forget our past. The physical damage fades with the march of time, but the memories remain, etched in history. I thank you all, on behalf of my nation for your service in the armed forces, both past and present.” President Jozef continued. “I know that it is better to have friends and allies, than enemies and ones against you. In war, someone wins, someone loses and nothing is ever the same again. I hope that we never have to deal with another world war, that we can all live in peace and equality. Learning about the wars, it’s saddening in the end, all those lives lost. To those fallen servicemen, they paid the price for freedom, every drop of courage, ounce of pain, pint of blood paid in advance. And here we remember them, remember the sacrifice they had made to ensure peace in the world we live today. We must never forget our history or our past, so we do not make the same mistakes again. I thank you for your service to ensure peace in our time.” President Jozef concludes his speech to applause from everyone who was at the memorial, as he layed a rose at the memorial. The remainder of the time was spent with veterans, soldiers, and citizens wanting to meet the president, and the occasional picture.

Date:11/06/17
Time: 16:00 AM UTC +1
Location: Memorial Statue, Arthropol City, Arthropol

They were both on their way to the city, after the Memorial service, driving down the road."I remember learning about both wars in school and the stories my great grandfather told." President Jozef started. "Your great grandfather served in the military?" Alard asked, curious. "Yes. He served in the Dreamlinersian Navy as a captain of a D9 destroyer. The ship he served on, the Knight, is now a museum ship at Anchor Point naval base. He told me his stories when I was a child. At first they fascinated me, but as I learned about the war in school, it was just saddening. All those lives lost, sons, husbands, fathers, brothers, it was all just saddening. He had taught me what I know, to live in peace, to have allies instead of enemies, and to end conflict by peaceful means without more innocent blood spilled.” He pulls out a picture of his great Grandfather and the Knight from his wallet. "He was a hell of a man."

[Arthropol]

Monday 6 November
8 Degrees Celsius, 53% Humidity

1612 Hours, Capitale Barracks
The short drive to Capitale Barracks was rather uneventful, being only a few minutes away. It was near the ocean, which was calm today. From the barracks, Jozef could see the Presidential 747 just a few hundred metres away. King Pierre IV, who was already present, agreed with the commander of the troops to begin the inspection early, as everyone was present and accounted for. Alard and Jozef took their seats. They could see a Navy frigate nearby, which was odd, as the Navy ships were all based in Toulon. The anthem was played, and the inspection began.

17:10, Rue Arthropol
The car travelled down the street to the Prime Minsterial residence. The two leaders talked about the parade, which both though was rather impressive. The early start meant that they had time to go home and change and eat some gôuter before the game.

17:14, Prime Ministerial Residence
PM Alard sat on her bed, wondering what to wear before the game. She finally decided on a white dress, a coat, and her Arthropol City FC scarf. She went out of her room to prepare some gôuter. She noticed Jozef had decided to wear a blue and black striped shirt, a jacket and some long pants. She quickly made some crêpes with chocolate sauce, which she and Jozef ate quickly. It was time to go to Stade Vélodrome to meet the players.


17:59, Stade Vélodrome
The car pulled into the back car park of the stadium, where a dark blue bus was parked, which read on the side, ARTHROPOL CITY UNITED. Alard asked, “Who are you supporting today Jozef?” to which Jozef replied, “Hmmm... I did a bit of research last night.. I think I’ll support Arthropol City United.” Alard said, “Well then, may the best team win!” They went inside to the players area, and went into the first dressing room, which read HOME TEAM- ARTHROPOL CITY FC. They opened their eyes to see a blinding amount of light blue and white shirts and posters on the walls.

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/06/17
Time: 18:05 AM UTC +1
Location: Stade Vélodrome, Arthropol City, Arthropol
After meeting the players for Arthropol City FC, they moved on to the next dressing room for Arthropol City United. “Good evening gentlemen. I wish you luck in tonight’s game, and you have my support as a fan of Arthropol City United.” Players paused for photographs with the visiting president and the Goalkeeper Joe Hart gave him a jersey for the game, signed as well and another player gave him a football signed by all the players of Arthropol City United. After a group photograph with both teams, the President and Prime Minister went to their box seat on the Home side of the stadium. The box was right in the middle, overlooking the field. Spectators were filing into their seats, getting ready for the game tonight. It was expected to be a full house for the game with the stadium packed to capacity. The sun was beginning to set as the time drew closer for the start of the game.

[Arthropol]

Monday 6 November
4 Degrees Celsius, 43% Humidity

6:04 PM, Stade Vélodrome
President Jozef had just come back from the toilet. PM Alard noticed, he was wearing the red and yellow third jersey of Arthropol City United under his jacket, with many black marks on it, obviously signatures. They were seated in the VIP area of the stadium, near the Arthropol City FC end, where goalkeeper David de Gea was practising his goalkeeping skills before the game. A young waiter came up to Jozef and Alard and asked, “What would you like to order?” Alard looked at the menu. She saw items like pizza, burgers, soft drinks, and croissants, but finally decided on some hot bouillabaisse , and a glass of Rose wine, as she was feeling cold. She tightened her scarf as and watch as President Jozef ordered his food.
6:29 PM, Arthropol City FC vs Arthropol City United
The game was just about to kick off. They had just received their food, as the referee blew his whistle at 6:30 on the dot. The team Arthropol United had won the kickoff toss. The striker, with the shirt number 7, passed to the winger with the shirt number 10. It was hard to see the shirt names from up here. Number 10 passed it back to the defenders, who passed it around for a while, before spotting a gap at about 6 minutes. The defender, number 44, passed it to the striker with the number 7, who kicked the ball into the bottom right corner. 1-0 United!!! "YESSS!" shouted Jozef. At 7 minutes 21 seconds, the game kicked off again, with City FC kicking off. The Striker, number 9, passed to the winger, number 10, who passed it back, when confronted with 4 defenders and midfielders. They could hear the roar of fans from both sides, singing their songs and chants, as Alard took a sip of her soup and wine. At the 17 minute mark, the winger, number 10, who was undoubtedly the best player on the pitch, saw a gap and ran for it. Around 10 meters away from the box, he was tripped by one of the defenders as a last resort, who received a yellow card from the ref. After a while with arguing, the players set up the free kick, with number 10 to take the kick. He waited a few seconds, and curled a beautiful free kick past the goalkeeper. 1-1!!! Alard clapped, and said to Jozef, "Well, I guess we're even again." She took another sip of her soup and wine. The players played for a while more, without any goals, but a few fouls, free kicks and corners. At 45 minutes plus 3 minutes, the ref blew the whistle to signify the end of the first half and a break.

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/06/17
Time: 18:29 PM UTC +1
Location: Stade Vélodrome, Arthropol City, Arthropol
Arthropol City FC vs. Arthropol City United
After the half time period had passed, the game was back underway. After several tense moments in the second half, Arthropol City FC scored a goal, bringing them up by one over Arthropol City United. the stadium roared with applause and cheering from the Arthropol City FC fans. Alard clapped and cheered. Arthropol City FC won the game at 2-1 at 90 minutes + 4 minutes. As they were preparing to leave, Jozef spoke, drinking the remainder of his sparkling grape cider. “Well then, that was quite an exciting game. One of the best I’ve been to in a long time.” President Jozef said, chuckling a bit. By the time the game was over, the sun had long since set. They went through the mass of people leaving the Stade Vélodrome. After waiting through the moving parking lot that was the traffic leaving, they made it back to the PM residence. Both were exhausted from the day's activities and the game. Tomorrow was anticipated to be a busy day.

[Arthropol]

Monday 6 November 2017
4 Degrees Celsius

20:01, Streets of Arthropol City

The car had just left the stadium after the game, heading back to the Prime Ministerial Residence, when Alard recieved an email from her assistant. It was the timetable for tomorrow. She showed it to Jozef, and it read-

5:30- Board Arthropol Two to Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
6:30- Arrive, Airbus flight demonstration
9:00- Meet Tolousain Mayor at City Hall
10:30- Visit Cité de l’Espace theme park
14:00- Lunch at a restaurant
15:00- Visit Université Toulouse 1 Capitole students
17:00- Dinner with Mayor at City Hall, relax before concert in pool and guest rooms
20:00- Toulouse Youth Orchestra concert at Théâtre du Capitole de Toulouse

The car pulled up to the residence and the leaders stepped out. Jozef decided to go to the guest room, while Alard decided to go for a late night swim before going to bed. She changed into swimwear and went outside into the pool. It was a clear night, and the beautiful stars could be seen from the top of the house, with the moon illuminating the city, which despite its size, had a lot less light pollution. Alard stayed in the pool for about an hour, before taking a shower and going to bed, ready for an early morning tomorrow.

Tuesday 7 November 2017
3 Degrees Celsius

4:30, Prime Ministerial Residence

Both Jozef and Alard woke up the sound of the alarm clocks. It was an early morning today, with their flight departing at 5:30 sharp. After making a quick breakfast of baguettes and cheese, they went up to their rooms and changed, Jozef into a suit and Alard into a dress. At around 5:10, a car came to take them to Capitale AAFB. Jozef took his suitcase, while Alard only took a small bag, with a few change of clothes, her computer and some others.

5:25, Capitale AAFB


As they walked across the illuminated tarmac in the darkness, Alard could see multiple planes parked on the side. She identified a few Eurofighters, a Navy Rafale, a few more she couldn’t identify, and her usual ride, the A350s and A380. But today, they would be taking the A319neo, registration A-0008, around the country, for domestic flights. It would have the callsign Arthropol Two, meaning it was carrying the Prime Minister, not the King. As they stepped onto the plane, a flight attendent greeted them both. Jozef thought it was amazing. A roof, which looked like the actual sky, and changed to the time of day and weather, and even a bedroom, office and luxury seats. The cabin door closed, as it pushed back for takeoff. It taxied to the runway, and the two CFM LEAP engines could be heard on full power, as the aircraft took off in a very short distance, into the darkness. Alard asked Jozef, “So what aircraft do you want to try? A350? A330neo? A380? Or maybe an older one?”

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/07/17
Time: 05:35 AM UTC +1
Location: Aboard A-0008 on the way to Toulouse-Blagnac Airport

The A319neo reached its cruising altitude for the short hop as the sky was beginning to change color with the rising sun. "I do keep up with the Flag carrier of my nation, but I have never been on an A350. Hard to believe that in my nation where tourism and international travel dominate, I have never set foot on an A350 and I have flown commercial quite a few times." Jozef told her. "Honestly, I've thought about hosting an international airshow in my nation, like the Paris Airshow, to demonstrate new aircraft technology and trends from around the world." Alard replied, "Well, then we will take a look at the A350. I wonder why you chose the 747 for your government transport?" "Well it was mainly a need to upgrade. The original government transports were 2 707-320B airliners. As much fun as it was to fly them, both on international travel and domestic, they were beginning to show their age and the Pratt & Whitney JT3D engines were real gas guzzlers and costly to maintain. Granted, the 707s had a 5,000 nmi range, but they were noisy even with hushkits, not to mention the trails of black smoke seen when the aircraft would take off. When the planes reached the age of retirement, we sought out a replacement and the 747 fit the bill. We had another 2,000 nmi added to the range over the 707, not to mention more space. Both of the 707s are now sitting in museums, and we chose the 747 as a replacement because the A380 was not out in service at the time." Jozef answered her. They got to talking about flight and government transports and soon the plane was descending into Toulouse-Blagnac Airport.

Date:11/07/17
Time: 06:20 AM UTC +1
Location: Aboard A-0008 on touchdown at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport

As the A319neo was touching down on the runway, Jozef could see the various types of planes built by Airbus sitting in front of their manufacturing facilities. The plane arrived several minutes ahead of schedule and Toulouse Ground control placed the plane alongside the Airbus fleet line, coincidentally right next to the second Northern Airways A350-900 registered A9-300. It was undergoing final checks and preparations for flight testing before delivery to Northern Airways. Jozef was surprised by the size of the A350XWB in Northern Airways colors compared to the A319neo as himself and PM Alard stepped off the plane. "The A350 is bigger than I imagined it to be." Jozef told her.

[Arthropol]

7/11/17
8 Degrees Celsius

6:24, Toulouse-Blagnac Airport

As Jozef and Alard walked across the tarmac, they were greeted by a man. He introduced himself as Tom Enders, the CEO of Airbus. He asked the pair, "So, what aircraft would you like to go on?" to which Jozef replied with, "We'd like to go on the A350, please." As they walked to the aircraft, Alard said to Jozef, "You know, one day you should come to the Toulouse Airshow, right here." They could see many new planes, walking along the tarmac. There was an A320neo, a few A330neos, an A380, and some CSeries planes. They kept walking, until they stopped at an A350-1000. Enders said, "This is the new A350-1000, it was just released, and I'm sure you'll enjoy flying on this plane. This aircraft is the first one built." Jozef and Alard walked on the test plane and took their seats in the cockpit jump seats. The plane began to taxi from the runway, after permission from ATC.

6:31, Runway 14R

The A350 began its takeoff roll down Runway 14R as the two massive Trent XWB engines powered up. They increased to full power, as the pilots called V1, rotate, then V2. The takeoff was unusally short, as the plane had no cargo, only 2 passengers and not much fuel. The pilots pulled the nose up and the aircraft did a steep takeoff over the airport, and then a steep turn towards the city of Toulouse. Then, the plane looped over the city of Toulouse. They could see sunrise over the beautiful city, and landmarks like the River Garonne, and the Airbus Arena.

7:57, Runway 14R

The aircraft gently touched down on the runway, as it braked unusually fast. They taxied back to the Airbus area, and deplaned. Enders was there once again, and led them to the Airbus building. Inside was a small reception, with an A350 shaped cake and some champagne. They talked for a while, and were both given an A350 scale model by Enders. At 8:25, a government electric car arrived to pick them up to go to City Hall. They said goodbye, and went into the car. They were going to visit Toulousain mayor Manuel Berger.

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/07/17
Time: 08:30 AM UTC +1
Location: On the way to Toulouse City Hall, downtown Toulouse, Arthropol

"I must admit, I can see why airlines love the new technology. The A350-1000 was a dream to be aboard and handled amazingly well. Took me back to memories of when I first flew aboard a massive airliner, a first generation 747-100. Flying on the first A350-1000 constructed, it truly is an honor that few experience. Perhaps I should get training on the A350 when I return. I already know how to fly a 747 and 777." Jozef told her on the drive leaving the airport. The new Northern Airways A350-900 passed over the car as it lifted off to begin its flight tests for delivery later in the month. After a pleasant and uneventful drive to Toulouse, passing through the beautiful neighborhoods that were on the outskirts of the city, they were in downtown, right at city hall. PM Alard stepped out, followed by President Jozef. Toulousain mayor Manuel Berger was waiting for them as they arrived.

[Arthropol]

7/11/2017
14 Deg Celsius

8:54, Capitole de Toulouse



They walked with Berger into the city hall, as they looked around. They were already six minutes ahead of schedule. Berger lead them to a small room, with three chairs. There, they talked and Jozef said, "I'm very impressed with Toulouse so far, Monsieur Berger. It's an honour to visit your city and I hope to visit it again sometime." They kept on talking, until the driver walked in, and reminded them that they were going to be late. They quickly said à bientôt to Berger and left for the Cité de l’Espace theme park.

10:24, Outskirts of Toulouse

Alard and Jozef were chatting in the car as they had some coffee they had bought. Alard said to Jozef, "You know, you're a lot like King Pierre. He was a former Air Force pilot but retired after his father abdicated to become King. He now flies for fun, and can fly the A380 and A350 in the Air Force VIP fleet." The car pulled up the theme park, and they got out. They went through the near empty line and looked at the near empty park. Everyone was still at school or work. The museum had originally been dedicated to just space, but now inculded some exhibits of aircraft as it expanded. There were many things to see, like the model of the Mir Space Station, a Mars exhibition, a planetarium, an IMAX cinema, a model of the Ariane 5, the Tu-144 and Concorde, and other aircraft. They just couldn't decide what to see first.

[The Dreamliners]

Date:11/07/17
Time: 10:30 AM UTC +1
Location: Cité de l’Espace theme park, Toulouse, Arthropol

"So many choices to see." Jozef told her while looking around the theme park. "Take your pick. You lead, I'll follow." Alard nodded and they made their way to the SSTs. They looked at everything at the park, the SSTs (the Tu-144 and Concorde), the Ariane 5, the various planes there, from old airliners to fighter planes spanning the ages. They caught an IMAX film, viewed the planetarium, the mars exhibit, an the model of the Mir space station. Time had rapidly flown by when PM Alard's alarm went off, it was getting close to 2:00 in the afternoon and they both left the park to go grab lunch at a local restaurant.