International District [IC, TWI]

[Coille]

Premier Owen Roberts III sat and stared out the window of the limo, still wrapped in the heavy jacket he bought while in the International District, not being used to the cold northern winds.
"What is it dear?" His wife Abigail softly asked.
"I hope this trip is worth it. It's been years since we've left Coille." He replied.
"I'm sure it will be a good evening. Plus that's the reason you're here instead of one of the other members of The Council."
"What do you mean my love."
"You've been working to hard lately, I figured you needed some time to relax."
"Did you arrange this?"
"I might have." Abigail coyly responded.
A smile crosses Owen's lips. His body relaxes; this might just be a good trip after all.

Once Owen arrives at the Gala he and Abigial grab glasses of wine and make introductions to the other dignitaries. There was one delegation that Owen wanted to go back and talk to, Hospitaller West Indies had sent their Govenor and Minister to the Gala. He sat down at their table

"Good evening Gentlemen. How was your trip to the International District?"
He was hoping for a long conversation with the delegation, possibly contiuning after the Gala had ended

[Segentova]

Jàcome and Hugo were still focused on their conversation when they noticed the Estral and Kevarite presidents coming back from their walk separately. It seems the date went a little wrong. Jácome joked, this, in turn, made Hugo almost spit out a mouthful of wine, but he restrained himself. The whole affair was starting to resemble a prom a little bit more than a formal gala in Hugo's mind. bad dates, and obviously drunk guest, now the only thing missing was a match of fisticuffs. Just as he finished the thought he noticed Jàcome was paying closer attention to the Kevarite, who was coming closer to the main group now. The foreign minister then excused himself Well, that's my cue. It was nice talking to you, Hugo. I'm sure I speak for all of the government when I say we have a good man for the job. He then turned around and closed began closing in on president Renaut.
Hugo, on the other hand, turned around to find the women now discussing... shopping, what else. He greeted his wife with a short kiss on the cheek, then asked the other women if he could borrow her for a quick stroll, so they might check out the venue and find their table. No objections there.

[New Jacobland]

Kevin McCarthy and Foreign Minister Rod Stevens strolled into the building. Stevens looked around nervously, scouting out any possible threats.
"There could be a bomb in that, a camouflage sniper up there..." Rod muttered.
McCarthy noticed: "Come on Rod, relax. Forget your paranoia for a night! It's a gala!"
Rod replied: "I never trust these events. A well-placed bomb and half the Western Isles' countries have no leader!"
"Well, I'm going to enjoy myself. I don't often get a day off, and I intend to savour it." Kevin said as he walked away into the gala, leaving Rod behind.
"Oh well, I guess it can't hurt to do some diplomatic reconnaissance." Rod said to himself as he walked into the party, "I'll see if any delegates come from the South Mesder, I'd like a bit of a chat."

[Trigel]

On a cold winter day, a man walks in with a steaming cup of coffee. He walks inside and spills the coffee. While the security is cleaning up the mess, he sneaks in to the elevator. " Hey you! Stop there!" The elevator door closes. The man presses on floor 8. The elevator rings, the door opens and the man walks out. "Hello, I am Boris Lachenko. Ministint of Trigel. I might've forgotten my ID but I think I am meant to be here.

[Serpens Land]

The first thing Victoria noticed as she entered the hall were the two delegates from the Westmoor Isles. The first, she recognized as the prime minister. The second she was a bit more unsure of. Knowing she'd have to interact with them many times in the future, she decided to try to avoid them.
"Why don't we go speak to our host, King i Florin Celion Faunus Eleos Caenalren Iralethias of Roendavar?" suggested her aide. She pointed in the direction of a relatively young looking man. He appeared to be busy, so she decided that now was probably not the time.
"In the meantime let's go find someone else" she said to herself, secretly hoping someone would approach her first.

[Dormill and Stiura]

Pierre was quick to answer, Oh, i think she went off with the other members of our delegation he scanned the room a bit, before spotting his wife in the midst of the Segentovan delegation, on the other side of the room. You see, Majorie, the wife of Hugo, she's our niece, and Temperance hasn't seen her, since they moved here, in May. But I'll gladly introduce you to her if you'd like? Let's just give the ladies some time to catch up. He cleared his throat a bit. Whlie we wait. Shall we go on to a bit of politics? Monsieur Dyson, my cabinet is very happy about your interest in AFIO, but, as you know many details still need to be discussed before we can sign a treaty.

As Pierre wrapped up his remarks about Temprance and encouraging Sylvia to introduce herself to the remaining Segentovans, Dyson returned to his usual business attitude and gave his response over AFIO -

"Ah yes, the Association. This project of yours has caused a small stir in my diplomatic circles since our Ambassadors last spoke of it. As for the details in particular, there are indeed a wide number of topics that we ought to hammer out, if only informally and between us, before our governments really get into the nitty gritty."

He paused for a moment to call over a waiter for a glass of wine, grabbing two in order to offer the second to Pierre, taking the occasional sip, he continued -

"One of the more important notes that we should work on is the merger of our existing institutions into this wider organization. As you should be well aware of, the French Academy at Chery is one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in all of Dormill and Stiura, and is home to one of the few linguistic officiating agencies in the Isles. If this Association were to go forward, it only makes sense that Chery, and other foundational institutions for the French language and French culture are given their rightful place as cornerstones of the wider bloc. There would also be the matter of how much money each of our governments should contribute to this, and where it should go. Surely any organization such as this would have as much a responsibility to outreach to more than just those who speak French and its scope can't simply be limited to protection and promotion of the French language and culture. But enough about my worries, I'd be glad to hear yours so we can have a true dialogue."

It appeared that Amelie wasn't going to be warming up by speaking with the delegation from a decidedly friendly nation first. Not that the man approaching her represented a nation that was hostile, of course, but still. Amelie glanced at the man's flag pin, but she was struggling to remember whose it was. The amount of countries she could or would have contact with now as Vice President was far, far higher than when she was still Parliamentary Chief. She was mainly concerned with the internal affairs of her own, then.

Dormill and Stiura! she smiled a bit as she remembered correctly. And just in time--the Doraltic dignitary had arrived.

"Bonjour monsieur," Amelie initiated, "I see you are from Dormill and Stiura's delegation?" One of the things she remembered about Dormill and Stiura was that French was common.

"Bonsoir, Bonsoir, Madame." Van Adrichem began, his French carrying the slight, but distinct, accent of a New Frisian speaker, "I am Roger Van Adrichem, Ambassador for the United Republics to the League of the Western Isles, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I believe you are the new Vice President of Martenykia, yes? I hope you have transitioned well into your new position."

While the Segentovan Chief of State was busy talking with the Doraltic president, the rest of the delegation had moved on, gathering around the musicians. There was no doubt, this was high society. Hugo enjoyed the music, it took him out of his surrounding for a minute. He asked the other members if they would like anything to drink. They all agreed, so he waved one of the waiters carrying a platter of clear glasses with long stems over, who promptly distributed the drinks among the group, and then went back on his way. Well, then the foreign minister said, I would like to issue a toast, to our delegate in the league. The group took a sip of their glasses simultaneously. Hugo recognized the distinctive taste of the wine, Roendavarian. He noted. Heh, the Roendavarians don't know as much about wine as they think they do if they serve this stuff. The foreign minister interjected Careful now, Hugo, you don't want to upset our hosts He paused, looking over his shoulders before leaning in closer Though I totally agree with you. the group shared a chuckle again before Hugo carried on, I would like to issue a toast as well, to our wine.
After this, the group started to engage in some more conversation with each other. Jácome had been meaning to discuss the situation in the league with Hugo for a while now. How's the job going, Hugo? You've been doing it for almost a year now, we liked the way you handled the canal issue. Hugo contemplated his answer, in typical fashion for him. It's going well, thanks. we're all enjoying our time here very much He took a sip of his glass and continued Well, I did my best. I guess you can't expect more from a man on the first day of the job.
Meanwhile, Temperance had started the conversation between the three women I hear Isabelle is doing well in school? She's making new friends, isn't she? Majorie nodded Well, yes. Me and Hugo are quite proud of her. We were concerned when he first got the offer, moving can be quite difficult when you're that age, but she's handling it well. Temperance smiled Wonderful, she'll turn out quite well, don't worry. With parents like you and Hugo, nothing can go wrong.. Meanwhile, Josephine was halfway paying attention to the conversation while simply taking in the ambiance, private conversations didn't interest her much if they weren't about her, so she just decided to be polite by trying to look like she was paying attention.

As the other members of the Segentovan delegation spoke, Sylvia Vilar had made her way to the group, a slight hint of nervousness was in her overall appearance as this was the first true time she had to socialize in such a high class environment, but she decided to do the best she could as Temperance Delacroix turned to face her.

"Good Evening to you all, it is my great pleasure to meet the each of you. I am Sylvia Vilar, Cedar's partner." she meekly exclaimed, performing a subdued curtesy as she mentioned Dyson, praying in the back of her mind that she didn't embarrass herself too badly in front of so many people. At the same time, Claudia's eyes were caught up in the Roendavarian King, driving her to drink down what wine she had left and muster the courage to speak to the host of the entire affair.

[Reathwood]

Minister Cadwall Wessom is a star of the Reathwood diplomatic stage. His membership in the Elvewer cabinet has proved to be another impressive step inhis meteoric rise through Reathwood's politics—at age forty-two, he is the third-youngest member of the Elvewer cabinet and, at his accession to the post, he was the youngest Foreign Minister in Reathwood's history. Wessom's ascent through the diplomatic corps has rested on a balance of rational, prudent decision-making and a certain stubbornness on moral issues that has earned him the respect of the conservative administration. He serves Reathwood's interests well, even if foreign delegates may find him somewhat uncompromising on weighty issues.

Where Wessom lacks charm and compromise, his wife, Tova Wessom, abounds. She has continuously proved the more charismatic of the two at social functions, and many in Reathwood's political sphere consider her to be just as much of an accomplished diplomat as her Foreign Minister husband. Both, however, were afflicted with the same characteristics that permeated Reathwood's elite in Yarhampton—their educated sophistication borders on condescension. The Wessoms decreasingly enjoy their visits to the International District, where, in Tova's private opinion, "wretchedness brews". They had to come, however—with President Elvewer and Vice President Cowald at Wathbourne for a University literature program, the responsibility fell to them.

The two reached the hall somewhat belatedly, but in no hurry. Dressed in red and black to compound formality with their heritage and each adorned with a silver heart—in Cadwall's case a lapel pin and in Tova's case a brooch—their refinement, edged with a slight smugness, was worn just as unmistakably as their clothing.

[Roendavar]

“It’s not really much of a problem, rather our Chancellor is being a bit of a maverick and trying to get a conservative law and order policy passed. It would probably get blocked by the Supreme Court, that is if the rest of the government doesn’t veto it.

Well, with WIDA, its main purpose is, as with many other alliances, to simply provide protection to each of its members, as well as allow for free trade and economic cooperation. I can’t really tell you much of any official plans, right now we’re still trying to establish the alliance.”

“It’s not really much of a problem, rather our Chancellor is being a bit of a maverick and trying to get a conservative law and order policy passed. It would probably get blocked by the Supreme Court, that is if the rest of the government doesn’t veto it." The Biaten Minister elaborated. Faunus nodded at the situation, knowing all too well the reality of politics. However, he was not really that interested in the politics of Biaten, rather...

"Well, with WIDA, its main purpose is, as with many other alliances, to simply provide protection to each of its members, as well as allow for free trade and economic cooperation. I can’t really tell you much of any official plans, right now we’re still trying to establish the alliance.” The Minister continued.

"Oh? That seems like a worthy endeavor. International cooperation and mutual defense is a thing most needed right now, considering our... current circumstances. Such turmoil in the Western Isles definitely needs security, in whatever way one attains it. Perhaps, once your alliance has been finalized, do you think that this alliance will also feel responsible in maintaining balance and supporting democracy outside of its member states? Or is this not part of your plans?" The Roendavarian monarch asked, keeping his expression neutral. While waiting for an answer, he looked around the room and saw more guests arriving. The guests from Segentova and Serpens Land seem interesting.

[Hospitaller West Indies]

"Ah, the Premier of Coille. Good evening to you too, sir. Our trip was a bit rough, to be completely honest. Our flight was delayed-" said the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chief Diplomat Maximilien Every.

Governor Thomas de Bonpar finished his glass of wine and cut into the conversation. "Premier Roberts, it's a pleasure to see you for the first time. Tell me, what resources does your proud nation possess? We've been in recent need of foreign trade since we abolished piracy."

The Governor reached for the bottle of wine, hoping to refill. "We did it mostly to get other countries off our backs... Our economy ain't completely bust, though." de Bonpar leaned in and whispered close to Owen. "Don't tell nobody, but we've been discreetly funding some offshore piracy operatio-"

Every quickly knocked Governor de Bonpar's hand away from the bottle of wine, and interrupted him swiftly with a sharp "That's enough, Thomas!"

Every was clearly red in the face. He calmed himself and said in a calmer tone "That's enough wine you've had to drink, Governor. Anyway, I for one don't focus solely on the economic aspects of good relations and I personally look forward to good relations with your country for the sake of good relations, I'd like to think we'd get along well."

de Bonpar looked slightly dazed by what just happened, meanwhile Every saw out of the corner of his eye somebody approaching the table from afar, and glanced over to see Merritt Simonis of Dormill and Stiura.

[Solaryia]

The first thing Victoria noticed as she entered the hall were the two delegates from the Westmoor Isles. The first, she recognized as the prime minister. The second she was a bit more unsure of. Knowing she'd have to interact with them many times in the future, she decided to try to avoid them.
"Why don't we go speak to our host, King i Florin Celion Faunus Eleos Caenalren Iralethias of Roendavar?" suggested her aide. She pointed in the direction of a relatively young looking man. He appeared to be busy, so she decided that now was probably not the time.
"In the meantime let's go find someone else" she said to herself, secretly hoping someone would approach her first.

Alas, it seemed as if the Solaryi delegation was destined to sit by the orchestra for the entirety of the Gala. The group from Keverai had started talking to another delicate on that had introduced themselves, which left the Consul and her party in the awkward position of standing a bit aways from all of the talking groups. And Conti Bellarys did not like being in the awkward position in parties, it reminded her too much of secondary school. She briefly looked around the room, eventually settling her eyes upon another delegate, who also happened to look slightly awkward as she talked to her delegate on the side of the Hall.

“Who are they?” Conti asked Jan, glancing back over to her own group, who seemed to be busy eying the appetizer area on the other side of the room. She was still getting to know the faces of a lot of the leaders in the Isles, and still relied on her foreign marshal for that, who had ages of experience.

“Ah, that’s Princess Royal Victoria, she’s the heir to the Serpens Land throne, mostly symbolic.” The foreign marshal responded, snapping his eyes back to the Consul.

“Well she looks nice, and I believe we have good enough relations with Serpen’s Land, let’s go see if we can strike up a conversation.” Conti answered. Jan shrugged, although he didn’t have any time to speak out or explain the likely intricacies of some obscure trade deal with the semi-distant country before the Consul had the group walking over to meet the royal.

“Good evening! You must be Princess Victoria, right? I adore your outfit, that broach highlights the whole thing.” Conti greeted, smiling kindly. Hopefully they would make a good impression, and not just seem like a mob, although compared to some of the other groups here, they were already on the higher side of the sophisticated spectrum.

“Your majesty.” Jan said after catching up with the Consul, giving a small bow to the heir.

[Wellsia]

Victor Atheling and his wife Edyth Atheldis, the Crown Prince and Princess of Wellsia walked into the crowed ballroom. Both stood silently in the doorway, their accompanying servant removed the bearskin cloak from the princess shoulders, he whispered into Victor’s ear; “Your Highness, there doesn’t seem to be a herald announcing the guest, this is a major violation of protocol, Your Highness.”
Victor nodded his head slightly and looking at the sea of color, wondered about their attire. He knew Edyth would shine because of her natural beauty, unlike most of the ladies present, less stood out. Edyth stood next to her husband in her full length white satin gown with a bustier cut and the mid thigh slit on its right side. Her feet covered by green satin slippers. Her long black hair held out of her face by an emerald encrusted tiara. Her only other jewelry a gold and silver armlet on her right bicep.
Next to her Prince Victor wore the traditional dress of a Wellsian noble. A green shirt over white pants, over the shirt a black vest was worn embroidered with gold thread, wolf fur circled the collar. On his feet black cavalier style boots came to his knees. On his head a simple gold circlet rested.
Before stepping forward, Victor made a quick survey of the room, making a mental note who was there, and who was talking to whom. Most importantly he spotted President Dyson, before the evening was done, he needed to speak with the Doraltic President about Kachee.
Intercepting a waiter he took two glasses of wine, handing one to Edyth, he smiled, “Oh well, my love, it is time to mingle.”

[Martenyika]

"Bonsoir, Bonsoir, Madame." Van Adrichem began, his French carrying the slight, but distinct, accent of a New Frisian speaker, "I am Roger Van Adrichem, Ambassador for the United Republics to the League of the Western Isles, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I believe you are the new Vice President of Martenykia, yes? I hope you have transitioned well into your new position."

"And a pleasure to make yours as well. Yes indeed, I am Amelie Lafrenz. To be honest I only wish this transition was happening under better circumstances. But before I forget, allow me to introduce General Jordan Ambassa of the Martenyikan Air Force, Deputy Chief Simone Tumi from the Foreign Affairs Ministry, and of course our own Ambassador to the League Augustin Izasso."

"The Deputy Chief and I read in the news that there will be a military exercise on the Faronna Islands sometime soon, sir," said Augustin Izasso, "we'd like to hear more about this and how it relates to the league, if it wouldn't be too much trouble."

[Coille]

Premier Owen lets a small laugh escape.
"It is okay Minister Every; Govenor de Bonpar was being canid. That is a trait I look favorably on. I understand the life of piracy my ansectors came from the ocean before settling Coille. There are always profits to be made on the high seas if one looks in the right places." a sly smile forms as he turns to look at Governor de Bonpar "As far as what products we have to offer at the moment is rice, citrus, hemp, grains, timber and seafood. I must say you should try Fresh Coillean Lobster it is the most delicous food the ocean has to offer."
Abigail Roberts leans over and whispers to her husband that she is going to go walk around.
"Of course my love; Enjoy yourself." Premier Owen replies, kissing her cheek.
"Gentlemen try and not let my husband get you into to trouble tonight." She smiles and walks away
Premier Owen and Governor de Bonpar contiune talking about the ocean and sailing.
Abigail refreshes her wine when she sees Her Royal Highness Princess Victoria of Serpens Land walking over she warming greets the Princess.
"How are you, your Royal Highness?"

[Havalland]

Leon was fashionably late it would seem, but he and his companions would arrive, Leon wearing a traditional white royal uniform with a black silk cape he would remove and hand to his driver before entering his family crest on the collar of the uniform, Jacob wore something similar in a red uniform with black pants, Samual wore the uniform of the royal knights except the helmet. The three would enter, samual staying at Leon’s side.

“Jacob why don’t you go mingle, you don’t get out much anymore you should go have fun”

”sure thing Leon, I’ll go enjoy myself while you go thank our gracious hosts” Leon chuckled before splitting off, Leon would try and find the host but that wasn’t too important he could mingle too but he had no clue where to start.

[Essena]

*Prime Councilor Christopher P. Benjamin (PC Benjamin) and Newly elected Chancellor Abraham Moore (C Moore) arrive at the Western Isles Gala*

PC Benjamin: Welcome new Chancellor! I see you're looking well.

C Moore: Hello Prime Councilor Benjamin. *scoffs* Stayed up all night dealing with security briefings while on the plane this morning.

PC Benjamin: Ah yes, those security briefings in the morning are something I do not miss. Unlike being invited to International galas like this. To be honest this is my first time here. Glad to have someone to talk to.

C Moore: Lucky you, get to leave behind all the bureaucracy but keep all the prestige. I'm the more vocal type and also a politician, so gatherings like these is like breathing air to me. Any advice on who to conversate with?

PC Benjamin: Why yes; talk to leaders that have nation close to Essena and then move out from there. You'll know who are the top nations in The Western Isles soon enough. Now if you excuse me, I must go and invade the food table. I bid you adieu.

*Prime Councilor Benjamin walks off to the food table, while Chancellor Abraham Moore walks to the center of the room looking for anyone to talk to*

[Segentova]

Pierre was a bit surprised to hear president Dysons remark Oh, no worries. I'm glad to hear always glad to hear the opinions of a fellow head of state. But a stir you say? I hope the project isn't causing too much commotion? He took a sip of the wine, pondering how to continue, swirling the glass as he thought. Yes, I absolutely agree with your point that the merger of institutions would be advantageous, after all, part of AFIO's purpose will be to encourage strengthening cultural ties and understanding between member nations. He took another sip of wine, he thought to himself how it tasted different than the wine at home. I don't think it would be very advantageous for parallel institutions to exist within the Association. But, I can say my government would likely be a bit more apprehensive towards extended mission statement for the Association. What matters first and foremost is that we establish the organization, Too much talk about it could turn out to be a bit divisive at this critical time, don't you think? As he finished speaking, Pierre had another sip of the wine, while awaiting president Dysons response.
Bonsoir, Mademoiselle Vilar. I am Temperance Delacroix, the first lady of Segentova. We're very pleased to meet you. Allow me to introduce you to our delegation. She paused for a bit, getting the lay of the land and trying to make out where the remaining members of the delegation had gone off to. I assume you've met Pierre, my husband? She then gestured to Josephine, who was standing right next to her Over here we have Josephine d'Orey et Avignon, The wife of our minister of foreign affairs, Jàcome d'Orey et Avignon III. She pointed him out while he was greeting president Renaut. And lastly Hugo Poullain, our ambassador to the league, and his wife Jacqueline, they just went for a little walk, but I'm sure they'll be back any minute now.. She could see the young woman seemed a bit uneasy, so she decided to ask her if she would like a glass of wine. Sylvia accepted the offer with a smile, after which Temperance called out to one of the wait-staff handing out drinks. She took the glass from him and handed it over to sylvia.

[Biaten]

"Oh? That seems like a worthy endeavor. International cooperation and mutual defense is a thing most needed right now, considering our... current circumstances. Such turmoil in the Western Isles definitely needs security, in whatever way one attains it. Perhaps, once your alliance has been finalized, do you think that this alliance will also feel responsible in maintaining balance and supporting democracy outside of its member states? Or is this not part of your plans?" The Roendavarian monarch asked, keeping his expression neutral. While waiting for an answer, he looked around the room and saw more guests arriving. The guests from Segentova and Serpens Land seem interesting.

“At least we've got one thing going for us: there is no major war going on. International security would, to some degree, be a secondary objective, but we're not trying to be world police, rather we want to maintain regional stability and have a joint response to international crises. Though we have discussed non-aggression pacts and trade agreements with other alliances, such as the G4. Speaking of which, my Ministry is currently looking into getting Biaten into the G4, would this be something Roendavar would support?

[Ainslie]

The Annual Gala | Parkes and Nyugen
After 6pm - 1 February 2021
International District


"That's a shame - you'd hope there'd at least be a bit of snow. Sounds like it's just like Arborai - thankfully I didn't grow up there... all it is there is windy and rainy..."

"And yes, Lee. Feel free to call me Calllum, as well."

"So, Lee.How are you enjoying the night so far? Have you been able to catch up with anyone else?", Callum asked. He then continued a bit.

"Your nation was formerly part of Serpens Land right? How does that work out - what's the relationship between your two nations these days - especially in defence, delivering government services and foreign affairs?"

[Alteran Republics]

Keith Ryansan [Strategos of the Alteran Confederacy] awoke with a dulled start, as the limo rolled up in front of the building where the Grand Gala was to be held. Whilst their nation was well represented around the region, the Alterans had a tendency not to send their highest ranking officials to these sorts of events. To them, events were strictly business - playtime was strictly something they did in the privacy of their own homes or, at least, their own borders. However, news of Ryansan's departure from office had been leaked - and, fancying letting his metaphorical hair down for once, he decided to accept and personally attend this gala.

It wasn't every day that an international gala was held in the International District.

Ryansan brush a few stray strands of hair out of his eyes, when he felt a hand rest on his shoulder. He knew that warm feeling of his partner anywhere. Jacob had been Ryansan's rock these past few years. Being thrust into the highest political office in the land only a few years ago - Jacob had been his steady pillar of strength that would keep him anchored to reality. He gently held his hand for a few moments, before taking a deep breath and swivelled out of the car and onto the red carpet, to be greeted by a volley of flashing cameras.

"Mr Ryansan, what are your long term plans in the Cent-"

"Mr Strategos, will Altera go to war with Ro-"

"...rue that you're losing grip o-"

"...Curia continue support the war in the C-"

All the questions, the constant questions, were but a blur. He envied the public at times. Blissfully unaware of the complex web of politics, markets, under-table deals, espionage and countless other instances of decisions and actions taken on a day-to-day basis by governments - all to keep the people happy. Or at least, somewhat content. But tonight, that was going to be him - an evening of bliss away from politics.

Smiling, waving his way through the entrance, he couldn't help but notice the vast array of flags on display. For the most part, despite them being curled around 8ft flag poles, they were recognizable. The Stalwart Segentovans, the Aultrustic Alte- [on closer inspection, it was actually Arkley], the Radiant Roendavarians ... But then a distinct flag caught is eye.

There was something unusual about it. The colours weren't particularly anything special; in fact, they almost clashed. But it wasn't the colour scheme, it was something ... else. Moving away from the designated path into the Gala, Ryansan moved over towards the flag to get a closer look.

Despite the protests from both his partner and his aide, the Strategos couldn't help himself. His aide, came running over.

"Sir ... Mister Strategos ... You shouldn't be he-"

His words fell on deaf ears.

"I say, take a look at this flag," Ryansan started, taking a corner of the flag in hand and began to unfurl it. "Don't you think it looks a bit ... limp?"

The young aide, naïve to his meaning, looked quizzically at his boss. Jacob however, looked more bored than anything else, rolling his eyes.

"I didn't think asexuals were interested in that sort of thing ..."

Again, another comment passed over deaf ears - though this might have been Ryansan's autism taking hold, more fascinated in the design of the suggestive flag than anything else. Suddenly realizing the world's press were beginning to take note of the leader's apparent vexillology fetish, the leader released the flag and quickly rejoined the merry throng of global leaders.

[Keverai]

The Annual Gala | d'Orey et Avignon III and Renaut Pt. 1
After 6pm, 1 February 2021
International District

Renaut watched as a man who was clearly Segentovan wandered closer to him. Soon enough he recognised him as their foreign minister, although he didn't remember the guy's name. Nevertheless, Renaut started the conversation.

"Ah, bonjour! Good to see you here. Do you come with an agenda, in good faith, or both?"

Renaut then straightened his jacket, adjusted his tie and quietly took a deep breath in an attempt to compose himself after his encounter with the Aizconan before the Segentovan's reply.

[Dormill and Stiura]

"And a pleasure to make yours as well. Yes indeed, I am Amelie Lafrenz. To be honest I only wish this transition was happening under better circumstances. But before I forget, allow me to introduce General Jordan Ambassa of the Martenyikan Air Force, Deputy Chief Simone Tumi from the Foreign Affairs Ministry, and of course our own Ambassador to the League Augustin Izasso."

"The Deputy Chief and I read in the news that there will be a military exercise on the Faronna Islands sometime soon, sir," said Augustin Izasso, "we'd like to hear more about this and how it relates to the league, if it wouldn't be too much trouble."

Roger was caught slightly off-guard by the question of Faronna, he wasn't really expecting to worry about business on one of his few nights truly off, but the affairs of the Isles move swiftly so this now became his problem too, "My stance, and that of the rest of the United Republics, is that Balnik and Doravo are clearly only antagonizing Roendavar to force a conflict onto Gael yet again. The whole dispute is little more than a ploy for Chernobog to consolidate his power. Once the League begins its next session, I intend to bring the matter up and start gathering support for official action."

As he finished his statement, he panned his head and body around the room, keeping watch for the next person he might need to speak to; "I believe until that moment comes, however, I must bid you farewell", he said, shaking the hands of each of the Martenykians present before moving on to the next set of guests.

de Bonpar looked slightly dazed by what just happened, meanwhile Every saw out of the corner of his eye somebody approaching the table from afar, and glanced over to see Merritt Simonis of Dormill and Stiura.

Though Governor de Bonpar was outside of his area of expertise, Merrit kept up his pace after locking eyes with the Hospitalier, now set to collide (metaphorically) with each other. "Your honorable Governor, it is a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance. I am Merritt Simonis, Director of the Office of Mesder and Raedlon relations of the United Republics Foreign Ministry, I'm sure you've already been acquainted with Minister Norton Schulz back home as well."

Pierre was a bit surprised to hear president Dysons remark Oh, no worries. I'm glad to hear always glad to hear the opinions of a fellow head of state. But a stir you say? I hope the project isn't causing too much commotion? He took a sip of the wine, pondering how to continue, swirling the glass as he thought. Yes, I absolutely agree with your point that the merger of institutions would be advantageous, after all, part of AFIO's purpose will be to encourage strengthening cultural ties and understanding between member nations. He took another sip of wine, he thought to himself how it tasted different than the wine at home. I don't think it would be very advantageous for parallel institutions to exist within the Association. But, I can say my government would likely be a bit more apprehensive towards extended mission statement for the Association. What matters first and foremost is that we establish the organization, Too much talk about it could turn out to be a bit divisive at this critical time, don't you think? As he finished speaking, Pierre had another sip of the wine, while awaiting president Dysons response.

Dyson took another drink of his own wine in turn before responding, "That is unfortunately true. I fear the United Republics has been caught in yet another hard situation as Balnik continues to escalate problems over Faronna. Sooner or later, alongside all this talk of cults in Roendavar, is going to end in bloodshed, something that I fear will drag my nation into a far longer conflict than anything we've done in Arvan or San Javier. But," he exclaimed, taking another sip of his wine, "It's probably best not to worry for the future. Please, don't let me hold you up for the rest of the night, enjoy yourself Mr. Delacroix!" raising his glass in a toast before walking back to the reserved tables.

Bonsoir, Mademoiselle Vilar. I am Temperance Delacroix, the first lady of Segentova. We're very pleased to meet you. Allow me to introduce you to our delegation. She paused for a bit, getting the lay of the land and trying to make out where the remaining members of the delegation had gone off to. I assume you've met Pierre, my husband? She then gestured to Josephine, who was standing right next to her Over here we have Josephine d'Orey et Avignon, The wife of our minister of foreign affairs, Jàcome d'Orey et Avignon III. She pointed him out while he was greeting president Renaut. And lastly Hugo Poullain, our ambassador to the league, and his wife Jacqueline, they just went for a little walk, but I'm sure they'll be back any minute now.. She could see the young woman seemed a bit uneasy, so she decided to ask her if she would like a glass of wine. Sylvia accepted the offer with a smile, after which Temperance called out to one of the wait-staff handing out drinks. She took the glass from him and handed it over to sylvia.

Sylvia's mind quickly eased back when Temprance offered the wine, safe in the knowledge that she wasn't an embarrassment tonight so far. She subsequently gave her greetings to the remaining Segentovans before having a drink of her wine, joining in on the small talk the other guests were engaged in whenever she could.

[Serpens Land]

Alas, it seemed as if the Solaryi delegation was destined to sit by the orchestra for the entirety of the Gala. The group from Keverai had started talking to another delicate on that had introduced themselves, which left the Consul and her party in the awkward position of standing a bit aways from all of the talking groups. And Conti Bellarys did not like being in the awkward position in parties, it reminded her too much of secondary school. She briefly looked around the room, eventually settling her eyes upon another delegate, who also happened to look slightly awkward as she talked to her delegate on the side of the Hall.

“Who are they?” Conti asked Jan, glancing back over to her own group, who seemed to be busy eying the appetizer area on the other side of the room. She was still getting to know the faces of a lot of the leaders in the Isles, and still relied on her foreign marshal for that, who had ages of experience.

“Ah, that’s Princess Royal Victoria, she’s the heir to the Serpens Land throne, mostly symbolic.” The foreign marshal responded, snapping his eyes back to the Consul.

“Well she looks nice, and I believe we have good enough relations with Serpen’s Land, let’s go see if we can strike up a conversation.” Conti answered. Jan shrugged, although he didn’t have any time to speak out or explain the likely intricacies of some obscure trade deal with the semi-distant country before the Consul had the group walking over to meet the royal.

“Good evening! You must be Princess Victoria, right? I adore your outfit, that broach highlights the whole thing.” Conti greeted, smiling kindly. Hopefully they would make a good impression, and not just seem like a mob, although compared to some of the other groups here, they were already on the higher side of the sophisticated spectrum.

“Your majesty.” Jan said after catching up with the Consul, giving a small bow to the heir.

"Good evening to you both!" Victoria replied. She then looked in the direction of the Consul.
"I believe you'll have to wait until my father dies for you to call me that" she said jokingly. "It's just your highness for now. Not to worry though, it's an easy mistake to make."

Unsure of where to go next, she decided to go with the first topic that came to mind.
"I visited Solaryia once when I was much younger. I remember it being a very beautiful country" she said. "Have you ever visited Serpens Land?"

[Dormill and Stiura]

Before stepping forward, Victor made a quick survey of the room, making a mental note who was there, and who was talking to whom. Most importantly he spotted President Dyson, before the evening was done, he needed to speak with the Doraltic President about Kachee.

As the night grew on, after dinner and the gala transitioned into a much calmer tempo, Dyson found himself approached by the Wellsian Crown Prince as he was returning to his table.

"Your Highness, Crown Prince Victor." Dyson began, bowing slightly in a show of respect he personally disliked but refused to outwardly show, "It is such an honor to see you here tonight. Our nations do deserve the best we can offer so I will be pleased if you could join me at my table as a friend.", switching which language to use between French and English was a natural trait that just about every Doraltic learns, it's a trick Dyson spent quite an amount of time on in his early Presidency as he tried to appeal across Dormill and Stiura's deep linguistic lines. However, as English was his third language, his distinct South Alban accent, which is slightly heavier than that of an average Dutchman's, would be on full display for the Prince to hear, which might become a problem if he is particularly picky about how people talk.

[Wellsia]

Before stepping forward, Victor made a quick survey of the room, making a mental note who was there, and who was talking to whom. Most importantly he spotted President Dyson, before the evening was done, he needed to speak with the Doraltic President about Kachee.

As the night grew on, after dinner and the gala transitioned into a much calmer tempo, Dyson found himself approached by the Wellsian Crown Prince as he was returning to his table.

"Your Highness, Crown Prince Victor." Dyson began, bowing slightly in a show of respect he personally disliked but refused to outwardly show, "It is such an honor to see you here tonight. Our nations do deserve the best we can offer so I will be pleased if you could join me at my table as a friend.", switching which language to use between French and English was a natural trait that just about every Doraltic learns, it's a trick Dyson spent quite an amount of time on in his early Presidency as he tried to appeal across Dormill and Stiura's deep linguistic lines. However, as English was his third language, his distinct South Alban accent, which is slightly heavier than that of an average Dutchman's, would be on full display for the Prince to hear, which might become a problem if he is particularly picky about how people talk.

Victor reached out and shook Dyson’s hand; chuckling to himself on how the royal staff and servants would chastise him on breach of protocol. Throwing all of it to the wind, Victor smiled and speaking in formal French, ”Please, just call me Victor, Cedar, I may call you Cedar? Turning to his wife, ”Edyth, let me introduce you to the esteemed President Cedar Dyson of the United Republics. Your Excellency, I would like to introduce you to Her Royal Highness, Edyth Atheldis, my wife.”.
Edyth curtsied to the President, Mr. Dyson, I have heard so much about you.” with an infectious giggle, she continued, ” Victor, he doesn’t look anything like a beast that roast babies for breakfast. .
Victor blushed at his wife’s remark, Um, uhh, we would be honored to join you at your table. .

[Doravo]

Though Esbern may have shown up fashionably late, he was still committed to mingle about in the crowd. As Doravo’s chief foreign diplomat, he was tasked to increase Doravo’s presence on the international stage. Doravo's Crown Princess, Olivia accompanied him. He was her dedicated caretaker on all international travels as the Empress wishes to get her better acquainted with foreign matters and proceedings. Esbern personally thought 15 was a little too young to begin political training, yet the Empress insisted.

See your highness, nothing wrong with showing up a little late, Esbern said to Olivia.
Esbern you know I hate being called that. And I would have at least show up a little bit earlier than this.
Yes yes no matter now. Let us find a table and we can begin finding other delegates to talk to.

Finding an empty table, the pair sat down and Esbern began pointing out the various other figures at the Gala to Olivia.