Consul Strathclyde took a sip of water. So far, this had been the meeting of his dreams: Artabanos wasn't there to add what He would call "wit" into the discussion, or to somehow steer the whole thing to talk of drones, whisky, or Nestor Karaman. The Consul's counterparts were direct, pragmatic, and sensible. He had been able to approach the topic of arms sales confidently yet relatively discreetly. Things were progressing even better than he had anticipated. "Yes, of course, Minister, Inimician companies have only had a fairly limited scope in your nation thus far. As you'll know, we have mainly established chemical industries which naturally have a fairly small consumer base. However, part of my mission here today is to work with you on expanding our interests. The Imperial Government is ready to commit to investments in agriculture, production and sales of luxury products, as well as other potential avenues you may think are suitable. We have the cash, we just need to decide where to spend it."

If Consul Strathclyde had been granted another 20 minutes at the table without Artabanos there, he was sure he would've integrated the Czech and Inimician economies almost to the level of North Diessen's. Sadly, it was not to be, and the Emepror's booming voice could be heard in the corridor before the heads of state barged into the room: "Aw, what a shame you no longer have a court to preside over, Albina. I really think you should try to reinstate this - I'll send you some tips on fancy court language in the group chat with Mikaela and Vistek. It's always fun to be able to slag someone off and make it have legal legitimacy, if you know what I mean."

The leaders sat down at the table and Artabanos looked at the water Strathclyde had requested rather sadly. "So, what seems to be the talk of the day? President Reiserova and I just had the most fabulous walk through Prague. Christopher, you really should have joined us. Anyway, I take it you've mentioned expanding our business interests in Czech Slavia? It will please you all to know, my Czech friends, the Artabanos Foundation and the Imperial Government are ready and willing to commit to opening multiple series of factories, processing plants, luxury goods stores, and even homeware and department stores, under the brand name HomeBanos Stores. Or something else, if you have a better marketing brand that might strike Czech consumers more effectively, of course..." The Emperor looked at Albina.

"Ah, yes, well, you see, President Reiserova, Inimicus has recently become a major player in aircraft and especially unmanned aircraft production. I'm sure you've heard of My good friend Boris Mancov, the Imperial Commissioner for Drone Warfare?" Strathclyde could be seen rolling his eyes and grabbing for the nearest bottle of water at the mention of Mancov's name. "Well, he used to be My Defence Officer, actually, but we all know how that ended. Anyway, his plants are producing so many drones, electronic warfare systems, and even F-35 jets, that we couldn't possibly use all of them. We were hoping to export loads to Telum allies, but then of course I didn't realise that the Duxburian Union is a member of the Telum Treaty and produces pretty much everything in greater and better quantities than we do. So we're looking for other markets."

Strathclyde swiftly took over the Emperor's bargaining plea: "As His Imperial Majesty eloquently described, our offers mainly consist of UAVs - of both reconnaisance-focused and weapons-focused types - as well as highly advanced EW systems which you could mount on ships, planes, wagons, whatever fits Czech interests, and possibly a small supply of Eurofighter Typhoon and F-35 combat aircraft. This should make Czech Slavia very well equipped to counter the threats of the 2020s."

The Consul could feel his Czech counterparts would need some time to think about this unexpected offer. He looked to the Emperor, who, to His credit, immediately recognised the conversation had to move on. "Anyway, President Reiserova, about your other requests. President Grimwald is quite the guy, although I haven't really had the pleasure of speaking with him for long -- he was at My Canal Party, of course, where he made a bit of a mess of himself, but these things happen. Perhaps we could set up a chat with the three of us? I'm sure he'd be open to it. I actually don't have his cell, though, so we'd have to go through the official channels. Ugh. I know Mouri-Kudo slightly better - that fiend Augustus Barrington hid from Me in Leagio a few years back, of course - but again, I'm not in constant contact with him. I'd be more than happy to get you guys chatting though. You know how good I am at coupling up others." If only, the Emperor thought, He was as good at coupling up Himself.

"Well, perhaps we should give everyone some time to think about what's been discussed so far?", Artabanos announced, sensing Albina wanted to take this meeting behind closed doors - where, in Artabanos's view, all good meetings took place. He whispered to the President for Life: "I could really do with a drink, Albina." Nodding at Strathclyde: "And I know someone who certainly could."

Silas just about jumped from his seat in celebration as Reiserová claimed victory in chess. The Bishop Secretary’s hard worked had paid off. Silas politely clapped and smiled with genuine joy when he was defeated.

“Ah, well done! Surely you’re some sort of chess master?” Silas rhetorically asked, further complimenting the Czech President. Silas believed he had the President exactly where he wanted her to be, where she might think she had Silas in the palm of her hands, maneuvering himself in the greater 4D game of chess he was playing.

Reiserová’s requested prize of a divulged secret peaked Silas’ interest. Now that was a very good request, in his mind. “I know many, many secrets, and you can trust me that many of them are far from… trivial. I know a lot about a great deal of people. Stuff you probably don’t even want to know. Hmmm… maybe take some time to think of a specific question about someone, and the next time we meet, you can ask me and I’ll answer that for you. Deal?”

Silas tried to maintain eye contact with Reiserová as she then asked about Mikaela’s ability to have children, but he struggled to keep up with her eyes darting around every direction. “Oh. Don’t apologise, I won’t tell a soul. Mikaela doesn’t have any biological kids because she isn’t married yet, and she’s never been married before. She’s waiting for marriage first. The College of Bishops had to amend the Inquistan constitution so that she was allowed to adopt children in the first place, since the Archbishop previously wasn’t allowed to have any type of kids at all without being married.”

The Bishop Secretary paused for a second and leaned back in his chair more comfortably. “Mikaela is very free-spirited and open-minded, but she also has a stubborn side that never compromises on her own values. I think some people have a very warped perception of who she is, because of her image. I mean, she doesn’t make it easy for herself, with some of her antics. However, she’s a very religious and deeply spiritual person, which is what I guess you’d expect of someone who is the Archbishop of the Inquistan Orthodox Church. Her side of our family, especially her father, always took their faith and the Church quite seriously. Compared to me, Mikaela is basically a nun, or maybe even a saint,” Silas explained with a knowing smile. “She isn’t very imposing about her beliefs, so I think some people might not realise that.”

“Yeah, my cousin used to try and set me up with people all the time. She’s only recently stopped and has finally given up on me. It only took about 15 years of determination and persistence from me to avoid going on most of the dates she tried to set me up with. Maybe in 14 years’ time you will also be that lucky, who knows? She has good intentions, and she just wants people to be happy, but I don’t think she realizes how meddlesome it is. Though, sometimes, the dates she’s put me on were pretty fun, so I can’t always complain.”

After their discussion and dinner, Silas got ready for bed, but joined Reiserová out on the deck to watch the city lights and enjoy the night’s sky. At some point Silas noticed that that Reiserová was breathing more heavily than usual, and he noticed that she had fallen asleep. Silas slid back inside the yacht to fetch her a blanket, covered her, and then returned to his chair beside her. Silas steadily exhaled and fixed his gaze on the lit-up shoreline of Saint Dominico, and soon fell asleep.

Silas was startled awake when Mikaela appeared standing above both him and Reiserová, looking down at them while they laid on their deck chairs. Mikaela was holding two acai bowls and was smiling from ear to ear.

“Good morning, sunshines! Rise and shine! I have your breakfast for you here. We’re heading back to Saint Dominico now, so eat up real quick. Captain Jimin is waiting for Bina and me, pronto!” Mikaela instructed.

Mikaela turned around and disappeared into the yacht. Silas asked Reiserová how well she managed to sleep last night, and made some basic conversation with her as he slowly ate his breakfast while watching the yacht draw itself closer and closer to Saint Dominico. Silas was feeling quite groggy and could barely hold his eyes open. According to his watch, it was barely 6:45am.

The yacht eventually pulled up to the port, where Silas and Tomás bid the ladies adieu as Mikaela and Reiserová got into a separate pink limousine. Silas made sure to pass on his email address and contact details to Reiserová so that they could keep in touch to discuss business opportunities in the future. The captain of the ship, Santiago, walked the ladies to the limousine and opened the door to their vehicle for them. After getting inside, Santiago gave them a rather ominous goodbye.

“See how safe the waters were because of me? That won’t always be the case,” he stated rather grimly, before then shutting the door. Santiago waved goodbye as the limousine pulled away. Mikaela exchanged looks with Reiserová and quickly initiated some small talk, to get their minds off of what he said.

The limousine eventually reached the airport where the Girls on Tour Jet and Captain Jimin were waiting for them. Captain Jimin bowed to the ladies and helped them onboard, and they quickly jetted off to Los Angeles, California.

Upon landing in LA, the girls hurriedly deboarded the Girls on Tour Jet and were taken on a private tour bus with an open-air second level where they could sit and look out at their surrounding around them. The tour bus drove past all of the tourist hot spots in LA, where they caught glimpses of all the iconic landmarks of the City of Angels. When the famous Hollywood sign appeared in the distance, Mikaela made sure to stand up and had Reiserová pose with her with the sign in the background.

Eventually, the tour bus made its stop at the Hollywood Walk of Fame. “We need to find our names on the Walk of Fame! I’m sure we have our names somewhere, right?” Mikaela enthusiastically wondered. The pair walked up and down the entire boulevard, snapping pictures and selfies with the names of entertainers and stars they admired. In the end, however, it became apparent that the Archbishop and the President did not have their own stars on the Walk of Fame. “How do they not have the biggest pop star from Inquista and the best actress from Czech Slavia on the walk of fame? This doesn’t make sense!”

Mikaela did not allow this transgression to dampen their spirits. “You know what, we’re gonna make it so big they’ll have no choice but to include us! I have an idea,” Mikaela declared, taking out her phone and ringing up one of her besties who was big in Hollywood, Ludacris. Ludacris earned himself a Hollywood star after his critically-acclaimed supporting role in the hit film Copalyse Now (2020).

“Hey, Luda, it’s your girl Mikaela. I know this is short notice, but I’m in Hollywood right now with my girl Bina and we need to earn ourselves a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Do you know if you can land us any gigs, just for today?”

It seemed like an impossible order, but Ludacris assured her that he would look into it, since ‘nothing is stronger than family’ – something that Ludacris’ co-star Vin Diesel always assured him. After a few minutes, Ludacris called Mikaela back with some good news.

“Ok, my agent tells me they have an opening slot for you and your friend for a short role. The job requires you guys to do some voice acting work for Minions 3: Gru’s Drift. Your characters will have a 1 minute and 47 second cameo, but they’re also willing to have you record an original song for the movie sound track,” Ludacris explained.

“1 minute and 47 seconds? Can they give us at least 2 minutes? I’d love to sing a song for the soundtrack! Let them know that Bina can sing the Czech cover version,” Mikaela requested, without consulting Reiserová.

Ludacris hung up and then once again called back a few moments later. “Ok, they said they can give you guys a 1 minute and 59 second cameo, take it or leave it. They’d love a Czech version of the song too. They’re expecting you in the studio immediately. I’ll text you the studio location.”

“Woo! Thank you so much, Luda. Love you! Talk to you later,” Mikaela cheered with glee. The Archbishop swung her arms around the Czech President and gave her a tight hug. “We’re gonna take Hollywood by storm!”

The Archbishop had the tour bus take the President and herself to a large motion-picture studio facility. The pair were escorted inside where they were greeted by the film’s director.

“Welcome to Global Studios! We’re so excited to have you both on board with us for Minions 3: Gru’s Drift! We’re hoping to show a new side of the Minions Universe that audiences have never seen before, and we truly feel that a singer and actress of your kind of calibers will add new dimensions to the cinematic experience that we aim to achieve,” the director explained as he led them to the voice recording studio.

Inside the studio, the director then presented them with their characters, who had just been drawn up and animated. “This is what you’ll look like in the film!”

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“O-M-G! Minkaela looks gorgeous. So stunning! You have captured me so well, it’s like a mirror!” Mikaela uttered in awe, marveling her character. The Archbishop then gasped as she looked at the President’s character. “Aww, she looks so cute! Bina, they captured your beauty perfectly. Artie will think you look really radiant here as well!”

The director then provided the pair with their script, which barely involved any lines in their short near 2 minute cameo, most of which consisted of gibberish, since minions speak a gibberish language known as Minionese.

“Have you ever voice acted before?” the director asked.

“No, no voice acting, but I’ve spent so many days in the studio singing. It’s basically the same, right?” Mikaela wondered. The Archbishop then turned to the President. “Have you ever done any voice acting?”

The director then went over the core principles of voice acting, and laid out how the recording session would work. Mikaela was really impressed by the director’s attention to detail and his experience in the field.

“Are you single by chance?” Mikaela suddenly asked.

“Oh, yes, currently,” the director answered, somewhat taken aback by the sudden question.

“Are you into people who are a bit shy, awkward, and quiet?” Mikaela pushed on.

“Yeah, I guess.”

“Have you ever dated anyone with crippling depression and anxiety?”

“Not that I recall, but I don’t think that would be an issue for me.”

“Have you ever felt like you wanted to get close to someone that you wanted to ‘save’ or ‘change’ for the better? Like feeling drawn to someone who is a walking cry for help?”

“I’d like to think I help change people for the better?”

Mikaela gave Reiserová an approving look. “Ok, we’re adding him to the Rikkalek list,” she whispered quietly.

The Archbishop and President then proceeded to lend their voices to the characters and spoke out their lines into the recording microphone. Once their lines were read to the satisfaction of the director and sound engineers, it was time to record Mikaela’s song for the soundtrack, as well as Reiserová’s cover for the Czech version of the film.

“This song is amazing, Reiserová and I wrote it in the drive over here,” Mikaela assured the director.

After giving a minimally satisfactory vocal performance, Mikaela turned it over to Reiserová. “Ok, Bina, you got this! Sing your heart out!”

The Mizrachi-Roscoes enjoyed the entertainment together dancing ,singing joking with each other and the other guests as the night went on. Amaziah went round the room on his own too with Jakob and Dana getting a little flirty with some of the younger guests of the ball who were LGBT including getting involved in the gay humour. Amaziah was with Jakob as this went on teasing his step-brother as he often did. He had quite a personality as many discovered that night he also showed his disgust at KIDZ BOP shouting "This is music? Cats are dying" . He made faces and mocked KIDZ BOP , he was more of a Halestorm type person and heavy rock person anyway.

We would very much interested, We could start by removing entering visa requirements and easing of work permits in both of our nations, Well, is there anything else you wanna ask for?

THE ELECTION DEBATE - SUMMARY

Last night's election debate was conducted by the well-known journalist António Fernandes. It began at 9 p.m. with the conservative candidate and former Governor General taking the floor. Orato defended his measures and his performance at the head of the government in recent years, and charged harshly against the liberals for threatening national stability.

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The debate set

Hugo Mendoza, on the other hand, barely entered into the former president's criticisms. He defended a liberal programme that would allow the creation and expansion of businesses in the country, defended his laws that had already been passed, and defended the legacy of the Liberals in coalition with the CDU.

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Hugo Mendoza, the main candidate to the Governor General Office

The social democratic plea was truly interesting. They reached out to the Mendoza Liberals to reach country agreements, and advocated strengthening the welfare state in Lusitania and Vettonia. They attacked right-wing collectives, especially the National Front, for provoking serious riots without cause.

Federalist statements left much to be desired. Both Lusitanians and Vettonians advocated the transfer of powers to the federated states. Undoubtedly, the Lusitanian Federal Front was the better of the two, managing to reach a point of equidistance and moderation.

The last to speak of having parliamentary representation were the far-right National Front. They accused the Liberals of staging a coup d'état, and continued to repeat their conspiracy theories about the recent fall of the government. They were, of course, the big losers in the debate. They were ridiculed by all their political rivals.

The controversy was served by the absence of the parties without representation in the Diet. Such as the communists, monarchists, nationalists and neathians. The winners of the debate in terms of dialectics were the Social Democrats, a fact that could have an impact on the polls.

"We are in full agreement," said Demirkiol.

A public announcement rang, the show was about the begin. The audience all sat down in silence, waiting patiently. But of course, the wait is finally over.

A series of troops, from the Royal Army, marches carrying poles bearing the company colour flags of various formations of the troops to serve as markers for their positions. Once everything is in place, a command is heard.

"Quick Time, March!"

The famous massed bands begin playing "March of the Orient" as the colour party begins to march and enter the stadium to which they follow.

One by one, guards from various regiments and formations enter the stadium. There were 6 regiments of foot of the Royal Army that entered, followed by 3 divisions of sailors from the Royal Navy including 1 regiment of the Royal Marines, 4 wings of the Royal Air Force, 2 regiments of the Royal Space Force, 2 Regiments of the Royal Reserve Forces, 3 flotillas of HM Coastguard, and 2 regiments of HM Federal Constabulary. There, they remain in lines facing the Royal Box.

The massed bands, who took center stage, then began to play some fanfare as the King, King Emeritus, and High Duke, enter the stadium on horse leading the Household Cavalry. Behind them came the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery.

As everyone takes their places, the band stops playing and the ceremony begins. First off, the inspection of the line. The King leads a convoy with the King Emeritus, High Duke, Field Marshal Renwalt, and Field Marshal Won, all on horse. The convoy then begin to go through the troops on slow march before then transitioning to quick march at the end as they return back to position.

With the monarch now back in his position, a command is heard.

"Troop!" shouted the Field Officer followed by 3 beats of the bass drum. Then the Senior Drum Major shouted "Forward then Counter, Slow, March!", to which the massed bands follow and march in slow time facing the Colour Party to the music of the Waltz from Les Huguenots. When they reach the end, the mass bands stop for a while. Then, the Senior Drum Major commands "Forward then Counter, Quick, March!", to which the mass bands follow and march again in quick time going back and forth until they reach the center on the second turn. During the first turn, the lone drummer separates from the mass bands and marches on his own to the left of the Escort for the Colour.

After the music, the lone drummer begins beating an 8 bar "Drummer's Call", signaling the start of the main ceremony. After which, the lone drummer marches back to the massed bands. Then the Field Officer shouts a command.

"Escort for the Colour, Slow Arms!"
"Remainder, Change Arms! Stadard Ease!"

The Subaltern of the No. 1 Guard (Escort for the Colour), who took command from the Captain, shouts a command in preparation of marching.

"Escort for the Colour, in Close Order, Left Dress!"

An orderly then takes the pace stick from the Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM), and frees him to draw his sword. Then he marches to formation behind the No. 1 Guard.

"Escorts for the Colour will Advance, by their left, Quick March!"

The band begins to play the "March of the Grenadiers" and then begins to maneuver to the famous spinwheel while the No. 1 Guard marches quick before continuing to march left while the band finishes their spin. Then, the massed bands march to give way to the No. 1 Guard while the latter returns to a line formation facing the Colour Party. Then the Subaltern shouts "Forward!" signaling the No. 1 Guard to march towards the Colour Party to receive the Colour. As they stop, another command is given.

"Escort for the Colour, in Open Order, Right Dress!"

The massed bands turn around, then the Field Officer also signals a command.

"Guards, attention!"
"Change Arms!"
"Slope Arms!"

The RSM then marches from the back of the line to the front to receive the Colour while the ensign follows at the right time. The RSM salutes the Colour with his sabre, marches forward, and receives the Colour. He then turns back, marches to the ensign who salutes the Colour and sheaths his sword. Then the RSM places the Colour to the Ensign's Colour Belt and the Ensign turns around to show the Colour being trooped. Then the Subaltern shouts a command.

"Escorts to the Colour, present Arms!"

The band begins playing the first six bars of the Royal Anthem, God Save the King to which all guards Salute.

"Escorts to the Colour, Slope Arms!"

The Ensign and RSM then return to their new positions and the Subaltern shouts another command.

"Escorts to the Colour, Change Arms!"
"Escorts to the Colour will advance, by the Center, Slow March!"

The No. 1 Guard then begins to advance to the music of "Escort to the Colour" while the massed bands play and do the spin wheel again. Then, the massed bands continue to march to another side of the stadium while the No. 1 Guard troop the Colour across all the ranks until they reach back to their position.

"Escorts to the Colour, Change Arms!"

The Captain then returns to assume command of the No. 1 Guard from the Subaltern and gives an order.

"Escorts to the Colour, Present Arms!"

With the trooping over, the Field Officer takes command of all the formations.

"Guards, Slope Arms!"
"Officers, Take Post, Quick March!"

"Guards will retire, About Turn!"
"Guides, Steady!"

"At the halt, right form, Quick March!"

Then all formations turn to a marchpast formation getting ready to enter the oval area of the Stadium.

"Guards will advance, About Turn!"
"Guards will walk past in Slow and Quick Time, By the left, Slow March!"

The massed bands begin playing and take position at the center of the Stadium clearing the way for the guards marching slow to the Oval. One by one, the troops march and turn to the Oval where they march past in slow.

For the slow march, only the 6 Regiments of the Household Division proceeded to march on the oval. The contingents from the other branches remain in the center waiting for the Quick March.

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No. 1 Guard (Grenadier Guards) passes in front to the tune of "March from Scipio" with the Colour leading the group, which is flourished by the ensign. The monarch acknowledges the colour with a bow, while the guards continue to pass. The music then changes to the "March from Figaro" as the Coldstream Guards pass next, then followed by the Highland Guards marching to the tune of "The Highlanders' Waltz". Then came the Lancastrian Guards who march to the tune of "The Men of the Red Rose" and the Moreland Guards who march to the tune of "Eastern Glory". After which, the troops continue to march slowly to the back.

As the Army units march, the foreign contingents from the United Principalities of Ineland, the United Duchies, and the Federal Republic of Yosai enter the stadium and proceed to the center lawn to join in waiting for the Quick March.

As the army units go on the other side of the oval, the Field Officer approaches the king and salutes as a signal of the end of the Slow March. Then he rides back to the troops and signals the command.

"Into Quick Time, Quick March!"

The music then changes to "Rythm of the Line" a neutral quick march played while the units travel from the other side of the oval to the front of the monarch.

One by one the Army units begin to approach the monarch again, this time the other units also follow suit up until the foreign contingents.

The Grenadier Guards are first, with the Colour now behind under their protection, marching to the tune of "March of the Grenadiers". Then, the Coldstream Guards arrive to the tune of "The Millenium". Next came the Highland Guards to the tune of "Highland Laddie", followed by the Lancastrian Guards to the tune of "Lancaster's Blood". Last from the Army came the Moreland Guards who marched to the tune of "The Rising Sun".

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After the Army came the Navy who marched to the tune of "Heart of Oak", then came the Royal Marines who marched to "A Life on the Ocean Wave".

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Behind them were the Air Force who marched to "The Marchpast of the RAF", followed by the Royal Space Force who marched to "Glory of the Empire".

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Last of the foot contingents from the Armed Forces came the Royal Reserve Forces, composed of personnel from the Reserve Air Corps and Reserve Naval Corps marching to the tune of "겨레여 영원하여라".

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The Coastguard then trailed next to the tune of "전선의 초병".

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Finally, the Federal Constabulary march to the tune of "Colonel Bogey".

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The Foreign Contingents then follow suit with the contingents from the United Principalities of Ineland marching to the tune of "Grenadiersmars".

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Behind them came the foreign contingents from the United Duchies marching to "The Great Ducal March".

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And finally, the contingents from the Federal Republic of Yosai march to the tune of "Battotai".

With the foot guards now done on their march past, proceeding back to their positions at the center lawn, the Field Officer approaches the monarch once more and gives a salute to signal the end of the foot guards' march-past. He then goes back to face the guards once more for further commands.

"Shoulder Arms!"
"Officers take post, Quick March!"
"In Open Order, Left and Right Dress!"

The Senior Drum Major then makes a command to move the band to give way to the Mounted Band.

"Massed Bands, Drums and Pipes, One way to the Right, Right Turn!"
"By the left, Quick March!"

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As the Massed Bands complete their march, the Mounted Band of the Household Cavalry take to the center led by the Director of Music of the Household Cavalry and two Drum Horses. They enter the Stadium and stay just beside the Massed Bands to the tune of "Preobajensky".

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The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery then follows suit entering the Oval and proceeding to parade their guns in front of the king. The band begins to play "Royal Artillery Slow March" as they Walk-march. The King then salutes the lead gun as a sign of respect as it passes in front of him.

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Then comes the King's Life Guards with their beautiful scarlet jacket and white plume, marching past the king to the tune of "Life Guards Slow March". They lower the King's Cavalry Standard to which the King salutes to as it passes.

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Then comes the Blues and Royals on the dark blue jacket and red plume, marching past to "Blues and Royals Slow March".

Then as the mounted troops reach the other side of the oval, the Field Officer's Trumpeter plays "The Trot" signaling the start of the Trot-past. The band now switches to play "The Keel Row" while the horses speed up with the Field Officer's Trumpeter dashing through the ranks to catch up with the Commanding Officer at the front of the formations.

The horses then exit the stadium, followed by the Mounted Band which salutes as they proceed to the exit.

Then, the Royal Salute begins with the Field Officer shouting a command.

"Royal Salute, Present Arms!"

The Colour is then lowered to the ground by the Ensign while the Royal Anthem "God Save the King" is played.

"Slope Arms!"
"In Close Order, Left and Right Dress!"
"Stand at Ease!"

The Field Officer turns back to the King again to give a salute to signal the entry of the Modern Military Equipment. The King, the King Emeritus, the High Duke, and the Royal and non-Royal Colonels of the various branches dismount from their horses and proceed to a Saluting Stage setup behind them.

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From the outside, military vehicles begin to drive into the Stadium's Oval led by a Tiger Military Jeep. The band begins playing "My Boy Willie"

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The lead vehicles is then followed by 2 Contender IFV-11 and 3Competitor IFV-10 Infantry Fighting Vehicles.

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Behind the IFVs are 3 Gnome T-2 Amphibious Light Tanks, and 2 Challenger MBT-10 and 2 Gladiator MBT-9 Main Battle Tanks.

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Then comes the Armoured Personnel Carriers composed of 2 Lion APC-13 and Elephant APC-11.

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Entering next are 2 Meteor RA-12 and 5 Comet RA-11 Rocket Launchers to the tune of "Voice of the Guns".

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Entering behind are 2 Cardinal PH-8 Self-propelled Howitzers flanked by 4 Slingshot TH-15 Towed Howitzers being pulled by military trucks.

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Following them are 2 Circus MC-5 Mortar Carriers.

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Then come 2 Vulcan SAM-19 Surface to Air Missile Systems and 5 Uranium SAM-15 Air Defence Systems.

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And finally, comes 2 Orion LV-6 Transporter Erector Launchers and a Purgatory BM-33 Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Launcher that drive to the sound of "Beyond Infinity".

After the vehicles exit the stadium, all eyes were set to the skies as the Massed Bands begin playing "Victory in the Caspian Skies".

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There, arrives 3 Merlin HC.5 Transport Helicopters of the Army Air Corps leading the flypasts.

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They are then followed by 5 Viper AH.3 and
3 Alligator AH.2 Attack Helicopters flying in Double Arrow Formation.

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And finally, 3 Vortex HU.14 Utility Helicopters finish off the Helicopter Flypast.

Then the Massed Bands change the music to "The Dambusters March".

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Then, a loud roar from the distance is heard as 4 Felon F.15 Air Superiority Fighter Jets from the No. 1 Squadron RAF kick off the Fixed Wing Flypast.

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A flight of 2 Lightning FA.7 and a Victory FA.8 Multirole Fighter jets from the 1st Wing RAF then follow suit in a beautiful formation.

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Trailing behind are 4 Hurricane S.3 Fighter-Bombers or Strike Aircraft from the No. 13 Squadron RAF.

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2 very distinguishable Pirate GA.3 Ground Attack Aircraft from the No. 85 Squadron RAF then follow behind.

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Coming next is a Valiant L.16E Airborne Warning and Control System and a Dauntless L.17P Multi-role Reconnaissance Aircraft.

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Then comes a pair of Atlas C.17 and a lone Hercules C.12 Transport Aircraft.

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Coming behind is a Valiant L.16K Aerial Refuelling Aircraft from the No. 206 Squadron RAF being escorted by a par of Falcon F.13E Electronic Warfare Aircraft of the No. 259 Squadron RAF

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And for the last of the extra large aircraft, a Swan B.10 of the No. 293 Squadron RAF.

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And for the trainer aircrafts come 5 Omega T.10 Advanced Trainer Aircraft and a pair of Vulture T.15 Intermediate Trainer Aircraft.

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The show was not yet over with 5 Inelandic CRV-17 Nord Griffon Multi-role Fighter Jets coming in.

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Then comes the United Duchies' Blue Angels Aerial Demonstration Team composed of FA-4 Multi-role Fighter jets flying in very close formations.

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And lastly for the foreign contingents are 5 Yosainese S-4 Raptor Air Superiority Aircraft.

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And to conclude the flypast are the famous Red Arrows on their K-4 Hawk Advance Trainer and Aerobatic Aircraft designed and produced in Yosai.

After which, the Massed Bands stop playing and the King and his entourage come down from the stage and mount on their horses again. The group then takes one more inspection of the lines before heading back to position. The Field Officer then approaches the monarch for another salute, a ceremonial way of asking for permission to dismiss. The king then nods and the Field Officer recognizes the order and turns back to the guards.

"Guards, attention!"
"Shoulder Arms!"

"Guards will retire, About Face!"
"At the halt, by divisions, Right Form! Quick March!"

"Divisions will Advance, About Turn!"
"Guards on the Escort form Close Column, Remainder by the Left, Quick March!"

As the troops march in preparation of exiting the stadium, the orderly then marches behind the Regimental Sergeant Major who then receives the pace stick after sheathing his sabre.

"Slope Arms!"
"To your duties, by the left, Quick March!"

The massed bands then begins to play "March of the Orient". They then turn around while the guards one by one march to formation behind the king. The band then marches off in front of the king and his entourage still playing the music.

The Royal Family with the Roscoe Family then proceed to their cars and go back to Buckingham Palace before the Marching Off Parade begins. Back in the stadium, George, William, Nikolai, and the officers on horse lead more than 20 formations of the Armed Forces, Foreign Contingents, and Public Service Forces on a march to Buckingham Palace.

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Upon arrival, the Royal Horse Artillery that already went straight to Green Park in preparation for the 62-gun salute fire their guns. The celebration ends with an appearance by the Royal Family and the Roscoes at the balcony waving to the crowds. The national anthem is then played and the event formally ends.

For Matthew François, head of the Elthic Green Party (better known as The Greens) it was quite the journey from Forecoaster to Saint Romain. His country had stopped all connections between the two nations since the communists kicked out the previous government in 2020, and the country, especially the Grimwald administration, did not recognize the UNSR at all. While the establishment of the Federal Republic was good news for those hoping for a restoration of relations between the two nations, it is unclear whether Elthize wishes to do so, as the country still only recognizes the United Dominions of Icholasen, the pre-2020 government.

Although his party's members advised against him going to Saint Romain on the fears of being vilified by the pro-Grimwald media, as the fourth largest party in the Elthic parliament, he simply had to be there. So he evaluated the most environmentally friendly method of transportation from Elthize to Icholasen: obviously, automobiles were out. He considered sailing, but that would take too long, as would any marine transit. As a result, the only alternative left was to fly from Forecoaster to Saint Dominico in Inquista, then to Saint Romain. These two flights would be François' first in almost twenty years, which, while he would want to go even further and not fly for the rest of his life, was nevertheless an impressive achievement.

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(image credit)

After finding his way to the conference room, François did not hesitate to speak:

"Ladies, gentlemen, and those who wish to not identify as either, I am honoured to be here today and forever thankful to the most excellent President Anne-Marie David for this incredibly important conference. My name is Matthew François, and I am the leader of the Elthic Green Party, and I have held this position for two decades so far, starting my job in July 2001. I highly value this meeting to the point where I had my first flight since around 2002, and I would like to begin by stating the obvious: The current climate crisis we are facing at moment is one of the worst things we need to overcome as the European Union and as humanity."

"I would like to then talk about our story as The Greens in Elthize... Unfortunately, The State of Elthize has been one of the worst offenders when it comes to ignorance on this very important topic, particularly after 2002, when Former President Archibald Franklin was elected. Around that time, we were making good noise: Our protests and strikes on this crisis, back then we called it global warming, were attended by thousands, and it seemed like the Elthic people were being aware of what they were being led to by our corrupt administration."

"And our efforts were for basically nothing, as the liberals, the right, and so-called "progressives" ignored us, and acted like we were a bunch of crazy people that are just overreacting, they thought we were being nonsensical. Archie Franklin led the anti-green crusade. That corrupt crook directly called me a parasite, saying that I sabotaged the economical progress of Elthize, and at the time we were protesting against fracking. He went as far as directly targeting one of my MPs! That resulted in slander and harassing against them so intense that they had to retire from politics completely, and I wish not to speak of their name to respect their privacy, in case the mob goes out of its way to attack them again."

"We do not have the same energy as we used to have in the early 2000s. The Greens are still getting consistent votes and seats in the Elthic parliament, but our voices are consistently ignored, particularly by Grimwald's administration, which has no issue slandering the opposition as it wants, calling us "troublemakers", saying that all we want to do is cause chaos, whenever we do our job, aka opposing them! Grimwald has no concern for the environment. He, just like his predecessor, keeps relaxing and repealing what's left of our already weak environmental protection laws. At a time when we need to progress and achieve what seems impossible, we are regressing in the name of a couple of florins. And this is why I value this meeting. Elthize is a small country, its story is not one that's told often, so we're ignored. I know this is a long speech, and I apologize for that, but I am forever grateful to have this chance, and I could not waste it with a bad introduction. I wish us all a good meeting, hope we can agree more than we disagree."

It seemed no one had come to the casting call.

"Well this is unfortunate." Anne-Marie David said.

"While we're here..." said Elvira Lovescome. "Why don't you just name me Councillor ? I could do a great job."

"Go on then. If that is all, Your Holiness, I shall be on my way back to Saint Romain to keep the New Republic going. God Bless." She saluted.

"Well, yes, it's in the works. Our fellow councillor Liam Zachary is working on it endlessly," Crofton replied. Shortly after, Grimwald got up with the intent to finally finish the summit:

"Well... Thanks for hosting us on this busy morning. I am glad we could end this summit without dispute."

"We would love to visit around a little, but we are also busy and need to return to Forecoaster. We also wish good luck with the Telum summit, Crofton continued. The duo then proceeded to shake hands with their Spanish colleagues, waiting to leave a little message before they left.

@Spain
With a smile on his face the president laughed:
"Hahaha I'm sorry President Aguilar, the excitement of visiting a new country distracted me from my duties, I was excited to think about taking a tour, but as my partner rodrigo told me."
"President we need to meet with President Aguilar, then we can have a tour around madrid!"
"A little silly of me wanting to explore the city I must admit, but about the train I must admit that in Aether it is a little different but even so it was an amazing tour and when you visit Aether you will have an unforgettable tour. But back to business Defense Minister Rodrigo, can you start the presentation?"
"Yes sir, after a long analysis of military bases and possible construction sites we have concluded 19 sites across the country but first we need to know the size of the fleet and if the fleet will have submarines or not we can confirm the costs of allocating the fleet and the location of the new naval base."
"Also president aguilar i would like to offer you three alternatives so that in case of the allocation cost get high we will cover it if the Spanish government support us in other areas, one of them is the Aetherian Nuclear Program a program focused on transforming the country's on a 100% Nuclear powered nation until 2025.
The second alternative is a program known as the S system or SENI(Sistema de Educação Nacional Industrial) a program focused on education to help more people enter the industries such as Arms, Cars and many others to help develop industrial areas of the country.
And the last alternative is a arms research agreement, after our civil war many of our military equipment got behind in the arms race so receiving some support on development of new military equipment would be of great help."
President João waited anxiously for President Aguilar response .

"Well, of course. Large projects need time and effort to ensure they are perfect and there are no fatal mistakes. Our high-speed rail projects have been in planning stages for years now, but we do expect to start construction this year," Grimwald continued, enthusiastic about the agreements on a possible railway.

"Speaking of... large infrastructure projects, let's talk about gas pipes, shall we? I and my Spanish colleagues have been considering a line that goes from Elthize to Spain, and in between are... you guys, Yosai. And we have drawn out a plan that can also supply Yosai during this transfer. What we want is permission to go through Yosainese soil, instead of an alternative route, like going through the ocean or going through the long route through the Duxburian Union. What do we think?"

HM Embassy to the United Duchies, Cair Para

Ambassador Yeon Doo Jeong had just finished his first cup of coffee for the day, having gone through various paperwork as the chief of the Reitzmic Diplomatic Mission to the UD. He had met quite a lot of people, including Duchian politicians, businessmen, and scientific experts. But just then, the phone in his office rang to which he took and answered.

"Sir, a Svarnan named Shruti Bhagat would like to speak with you. Should I let them in?" the reception office opened.

"Yes please, let them to my office." Amb. Yeon replied.

Shruti and Daksha were escorted to the Ambassador's office where they met Amb. Yeon. There, the two opened up about their case and a request for asylum. Doo Jeong knew this was an important matter, after having heard about their role in the Svarnan Opposition, and needed to consult with higher authorities before giving a go-signal. But in the meantime, he allowed the family to stay in the embassy while waiting for the decision from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

After the meeting, he immediately wrote a letter and talked to Foreign Minister Chung about the matter. Chung, knowing his limitations as a simple cabinet minister had to consult the Prime Minister on the best course of action, he knew that one mistake could have catastrophic events to the newly EU-ascended nation. Due to the amount of work that had to be done, the family had to stay in the embassy for 3 days before finally receiving a definitive response to their response. Ambassador Yeon, delivered them the news.

"Mr. Bhagat, I'd like to inform you that your request for political asylum was approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of State Borders. We will be arranging a flight for you and your family to Reitzmag, as well as provide basic necessities for you to start life once again in our country. The details of all procedures to ensure your safe entry and stay in our country will be provided to you later. I wish you all the best." Ambassador Yeon said on their meeting.

Doo Jeong shook hands with Shruti and walked them to the door talking about additional details of what happened and how they got to the United Duchies.

Black House, Hampton City
The situation with the Bhagat family had been turned into a 2nd class issue to be addressed, giving it more priority and effort than other issues. And this was just in time for another Cabinet Meeting.

Simon, and the Ministers for Foreign Affairs, State Borders, Social Welfare and Development, and Defence all gathered before the Cabinet meeting to discuss what to do with the Bhagat Family.

"Mr. Prime Minister, I have some fear and skepticism on what the Bhagat family may cause to our country. They might drag us into an unnecessary war, or incite chaos and violence just to build up their opposition force to strike back to Svarna Surya." said Minister Wallace.

"We all know this family has an important role in their country based on the information they provided to the embassy in the United Duchies and from intelligence gathered by the NIS, who also verified these information. Do you seriously want us to just abandon them and let them suffer in their country Minister Wallace?" replied Social Welfare and Development Minister Collins.

"That's not what I'm saying, I'm simply concerned about our own national security and how it is possibly at risk because we're keeping them here in Reitzmag. Yes, the NIS may have given a highly detailed report on information about this family, but we don't know their true intentions of coming here. And why among all nations do they have to choose this goddamn country." answered Ben.

"I think we're pretty secure as far as our country is concerned, we have regular Coastguard patrols in the Caspian and a very active armed force ready to respond whenever necessary. Our police is also still on high alert due to the attacks we had from universities as far as I have checked from the latest information. My main concern pretty much is the effect our action would have on their country, and to their people. And of course we know this is what could have socio-economic consequences for Reitzmag." said Foreign Minister Chung trying to cut the arguments between Ben and Andrea.

"I agree with Minister Chung, we need to consider the after effects of a possible revolution or conflict there. And while we have the Bhagat Family in our hands, we have some degree of control on how the events in Svarna Surya will unfold." adds State Borders Minister Noh.

Eventually, the discussion is cut by the arrival of the other cabinet members ready for the meeting.

"Prime Minister, it sounds like we have a deal!" Vivienne was thrilled that they came to an agreement.

"Now is there anything else you'd like to discuss? I got some news that the head of the Kingdom of Spain would also like to arrange a summit and I'd like to let them know when I'll be free," said Vivienne nervously and trying not to be impolite .

Artabanos sipped His water during the speeches by the other leaders, wishing for something stronger. Talk of Straits, fending off Reitzmic and Duchian silliness, and other people using His canal, always made Him thirsty. Nevertheless, a prolonged silence seemed to indicate it was time for Him to respond, and a traditionally curt nod from the Inquistan Archbishop certainly did. He spoke: "Yes, of course, My friends, the Canal was constructed for all of us. The press have left the room, haven't they? Just making sure I don't need to go on with that nonsense about it benefitting the Diessenar Peoples. With all due apologies to Nesto-- I mean, President Karaman, of course. From now on, My friends, military and civilian vessels flying under the colours of any of our nations shall enjoy free and prioritised passage through the Canal, and shall further enjoy maintenance and resupplying opportunities in the many military shipyards that have been build along the canalside.

"If that isn't benefitting the Diessenar Peoples, I wouldn't know what will." The Emperor looked at Nestor Karaman, who confirmed with a short smirk his willingness to throw his entire nation, his entire existence, at Artabanos's feet. "On to the Straits. I understand, Jesús, your intentions to seize as many shorelines as you can, and Inimicus will fully support you in so doing. But, well, last time this happened, and I got involved, I was forced to sack My Defence minister and appoint him to some other post to keep him in My circle. You will understand that the Imperial Navy is reluctant to assist you in the near future. However, all is not lost, and indeed we have My sacked Defence Minister to thank for that.

"You may have noticed...", Artabanos continued, taking another sip of His lukewarm and far too weak water, "...the Empire's recent investments in, and development of, new generations of war kit. I'm talking drones, electronic warfare capacities on small ships, things that could jam Simon Bridges's erotica stash from 1000 miles away, that sort of stuff. We have also -- the press is really gone, right? Good -- we have also managed to develop a tactical nuke we can drop from our most advanced type of drone. So we can assist you, Jesús, without putting any boots on the ground - or on the seashore. Isn't that fancy?

"And this brings Me to the excellent point the Archbishop raised. Indeed, it may be desirable for the Empire to lodge a request with the ENAA for an expansion of its nuclear weapons license. You can never have too many nukes, am I right, Erik? I thought so. But, and this is where the problem lies, I have never won the Inquistan X-factor. Inimicus has never won EuroVoice - which is why it hasn't participated, on My insistence - so applying for an expanded licence, and having it refused, would be worse than not applying for one at all. This is the conundrum we face.

"Finally, I thank Erik for the offers of taking part in various Duxburian-led schemes. It's good to finally see the DU on our side - I still remember when the High Steward wouldn't let My yacht through the Persian a few years back. And then what would have happened at the Canal opening party? In all seriousness, the Empire is all for development of new tech, as I said just a moment ago. We've been actively working on modernising every inch of our armed forces - and I certainly have the receipts to prove it; My poor Chancellor is having to balance so many wonky books these days. We're ready to commit; at any time."

@BrumBrum
The most exciting welcome in the nation.
29th August 2022
For the first time since the civil war, a high-ranking politician visits the country. Much of the nation was excited and their eyes glazed over the live broadcasts from Velkia. With the President João Vitor personally awaiting the Prime Minister of the United Duchies, John Peter Key and the Minister Aaron Scott. The President got noticed of their arrival at evening and immediately met them at the Velkia National Airport.
-Prime minister John Peter! Foreign minister Aaron Scott! You two can't imagine the joy that the country feels receiving you two, for you two this may look as a normal summit it's very important for the federation! We are being able to finally reconnect with the world after such horrible war. Today you two will have the best of Velkia and Aether! Tomorrow rest assured that we will talk about Econ!
Even before the ministers could talk they were taken by the president to the most lavish restaurant in the city
-A casa do porco it's best restaurant in the city, I'm sure that you two will satisfied with the culinary.
After a lavish dinner the prime minister said:

This dinner was one of the best I had on my entire life.
The foreign minister responded: I would say the same but my wife would kill me Hahahaha
-I believe that we are ready to go to our hotel mr.president.
Said the prime minister. Ok you will be staying at the St. Humbertos Hotel, the best of the country. You will be taken by security, I unfortunately have to go meet with other government officials. I to have say again thank you for visiting our nation.
With that the Prime minister and foreign minister were taken to their hotel excited to see that president João Vitor showed heavy enthusiasm about the Econ treaty.

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Image: Presidential Palace in Forecoaster, Elthize. (original image)

President Greenwich Grimwald got ready for another summit that would be held in the Palace. As usual, he was gonna be with Minister of Foreign Affairs Oscar Crofton. As the red carpet got laid out and the marching band held their position, the Elthic side got the notification that the guests' plane had landed.

"Alright," Crofton said. "They should be here at any hour. Do you know much about them?"

"The countries or the leaders?"

"The latter."

"Not really, no," Grimwald replied. "Starmer just became the Prime Minister, so we didn't have much opportunity. As for Albanese... Well, I'm not sure. How do you pronounce that, by the way?"

"Al-ba-nee-see. Or something like that." Shortly after that, the two informed that the guests had arrived. They arrived and walked through the red carpet, and the anthems of all three countries were played by the marching band.

"Good afternoon, gentlemen," Grimwald started the conversation in the middle of handshakes. "Let's go inside."