En route pour L'Inquista! - The Saint Dominico Summit
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Prime Minister Baschet and the Gallic delegation arrived at Ludovico II International Airport, one of three international airports located in Saint Dominico. Ludovico II International Airport was mostly known for being located on one of the many islands that made up Saint Dominico's city shoreline, which was divided and separated by hundreds of man-made canals. The airport was the closest in proximity to the Archbishop's Palace and to Saint Dominico's Square, thus making it the most convenient place for the Gallic Prime Minister to land.
Upon landing, the Gallic Prime Minister and her aides were greeted by members of the Inquistan National Guard, who saluted her as she and her aides deplaned. The Prime Minister and her delegation were escorted into a nearby armoured limousine, which was waiting for them nearby on the tarmac. Normally it would be faster to travel to Saint Dominico's Square using one of the many water taxis located at the airport, but because security was one of the Archbishop's top priorities, the Gallic Prime Minister would have to take the longer physical route instead. The Prime Minister's armoured limousine was followed and preceded by numerous other armoured vehicles, all of which were devoted to her safety.
While the physical route took decidedly longer than travelling over the water, it made up for it by boasting beautiful scenery. Many of the bridges that connected the city islands were decorated with splendor and grandeur. The entire route to the Archbishop's Palace was especially decorated for this state visit, with Gallic and Inquistan flags lining down the city promenades and hanging from the balconies of nearby buildings.
As they were nearing Saint Dominico's Square and the palace, the Gallic delegation would have noticed numerous celebrations that were occurring on the streets in celebration of the visit. Members of the public were lighting smoke bombs which emitted the national colours of Gallorum, and the members of the public enthusiastically waved them as the armoured limousine and party of vehicles passed them.
Saint Dominico's Square was a forum which was surrounded by numerous significant buildings, most namely of which included St. Dominico's Basilica, Saint Dominico's Campanile and the Archbishop's Palace. The Square was a very popular tourist destination, and many tourists and members of the public visited the Square each day. However, in the event of a state visit or any other special occasion, the entire square would be closed-off from the public. On this occasion, however, an exception was made. Members of the public could take to the square, but were made to keep to the outskirts of the main forum. Many members of the public were wearing costumes, particularly ornately-decorated masks, which were a popular costume in the city during the Inquistan Renaissance. Other members of the public were draped in Inquistan or Gallic flags, which they wore as capes. Others had flags in hand, which they waved excitedly when the Gallic Prime Minister's armoured limousine finally arrived at the square.
When the Prime Minister arrived at the square, she was once again met by the Inquistan National Guard. A member of the guard helped Prime Minister Baschet step out of her vehicle and onto a red carpet that was laid out before her. The red carpet extended all the way from one side of Saint Domincio's Square to the other side. Members of the guard stood at attention beside the red carpet and would turn to salute as the Prime Minister would pass them. Behind the members of the guard stood some nuns, priests and members of the Inquistan Orthodox laity. They all held large Inquistan Orthodox crosses and white banners encrusted with gold Inquistan Orthodox crosses. They all quietly sang and chanted in unison, softly mumbling in Latin.
At the other end of the red carpet, before Saint Dominico's Basilica, stood a large red platform, which was high enough to oversee everything in the forum. Archbishop Craticus stood stiffly atop this platform with a stoic expression across his face. With steely eyes, the Archbishop studied the Prime Minister as she walked the carpet. Craticus also carefully studied the guard, as well as the nuns, priests and laity behind them. Behind Cratiucs, three large flags of Gallorum, Inquista and the Inquistan Orthodox Church waved at half-mast. Below the platform, on the right-hand side of Craticus, were members of the Inquistan National Symphony Orchestra, who were tasked with playing the national anthems. Below the platform, on the left-hand side, stood members of the press, who were quarantined behind a red ribbon.
Prime Minister Baschet eventually reached the end of the red carpet and began ascending the stairs of the red platform. Archbishop Craticus extended his hand and helped the Prime Minister finish her last step up the platform. The Archbishop finally broke out into a smile and shook her hand as she stood on the platform with him. The Archbishop then carefully turned to the left, facing the members of the press, and continued to shake the hand of the Gallic Prime Minister with a keen and happy smile.
"Welcome to Inquista. Welcome to Saint Dominico. We are happy to have you on this blessed day," the Archbishop said as he shook the Prime Minister's hand.
The sound of the cameras clicking and fluttering echoed around the public forum. It almost sounded as if a torrent of butterflies swept across the square. After exchanging the pleasant greetings and giving the press the attention that they wanted, the Archbishop eventually let go of the Prime Minister's hand and stood at attention. The orchestra then started to play the national anthem of Gallorum.
As the Gallic national anthem plays, the large Gallic flag behind Prime Minister Baschet and Archbishop Craticus is raised from half-mast to the finial position. Once the Gallic national anthem is performed, and the flag is raised to its full extent, a cannon shot is suddenly heard thundering over the square. A cannon ball flies and lands in the water before the harbour of the square. The water in the harbour explodes and a watery mist climbs over the city canals.
Before the Inquistan national anthem is performed, a choir emerges behind the orchestra and begin to walk to the front. A quiet cheer erupts as people realise that Lizzo is leading the choir.
The Inquistan flag as well as the flag of the Inquistan Orthodox Church are raised to their finial position as Lizzo, the choir and the orchestra perform Inquista's national anthem.
A cannon shot is discharged when the Inquistan national anthem is complete, and the cannon ball goes whizzing into the water of the harbour. A large splash sprouts from the sea. The crowd begins to clap and cheer as all flags are raised to their full extent. The crowd then begins to settle down as Lizzo is seen being given a flute by a member of the orchestra. The members of the orchestra and choir then vacate their positions, leaving Lizzo alone in the performance area with her flute.
> Lizzo performs "Empire State of Mind" with her flute.
Members of the public cheer and holler as Lizzo finishes her performance. Lizzo bows and begins to wave enthusiastically at them. Lizzo thanks them and blows air kisses towards the onlookers.
Archbishop Craticus smiles and then shakes the hand of Prime Minister Baschet yet again. The Archbishop then puts his hand on her shoulder. "Please follow me, Prime Minister," he commands.
The Archbishop then leads the Gallic Prime Minister off from the platform, passing the members of the press, and towards the left-hand side of the square. Members of a security detail quickly rush to follow the Prime Minister and the Archbishop. Archbishop Craticus personally escorts the Prime Minister towards the Archbishop's Palace. As they walk, the Archbishop explained some of the history of the city, the history of Inquista, as well as the history of the Inquistan Orthodox Church. After feeling that he had bored the Gallic Prime Minister sufficiently, Craticus apologized. "I apologize if you were expecting an 'Ibizan' reception here today. Unfortunately, we will not be attending any clubs," the Archbishop joked. "However, I've organized that we will watch a rugby match after today's meeting. Gallorum and Inquista will be playing a friendly. It will be a good way to become better personally acquainted after we discuss matters of state."
Once the two leaders enter the Archbishop's Palace, Archbishop Craticus leads the Prime Minister down the famous Golden Hall.
The Golden Hall displayed many famous Inquistan historical artifacts, pieces of art, statues and crosses. Many of the ancient artifacts were obtained during the crusades, which were looted by Inquistan knights. Craticus refrained from continuing to bore the Prime Minister with history lessons, and instead stated his hopes and goals for the upcoming discussion. "I feel as though Gallorum and Inquista could be the closest of allies - an Orthodox alliance, literally. I look forward to working out a free trade agreement with Gallorum, as well as free movement, and cooperating on matters of security."
The pair of leaders eventually reached the end of the Golden Hall, and took a turn to the right, towards a large ornate door. Two guards stood before the door and swiftly opened it upon seeing the Archbishop. As the Archbishop and the Prime Minister walked through the door, they then entered a large study room. A couple of chairs stood in the centre of the room, as well as two small tables, which had food and drink refreshments on them. The Archbishop's Chief Assistant, Bradley Costa, was waiting in the room, as well as the Prime Minister's aides, who had quietly been escorted into the room earlier.
Craticus extended his arm in an attempt to prompt the Gallic Prime Minister to take a seat in one of the chairs in the centre of the study. Craticus then seated himself and turned to the small table beside him, which had tea, coffee, as some pastries on it. "Please help yourself to some tea or coffee. I'm a coffee man myself. Black, no sugar," Craticus said, pouring himself something to drink. Craticus placed his coffee on his lap. The Archbishop's assistant, Costa, also helped himself to some coffee, before then sitting beside the Archbishop and handing him a schedule containing some notes. The Archbishop quickly studied them before resuming his discussion with the Prime Minister.
"Again, it's great to have you, Prime Minister. I have been looking forward to this visit ever since Gallorum joined the European Union. There is a lot of potential for partnership between our two nations. As I said, I can see our two nations becoming the closest of allies. We are, after all, Orthodox brothers. I would like to begin our discussion on the topic of trade, if you do not mind. Inquista is always interested in trading freely with potential allies. Tell me about the economy of Gallorum."
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The Prime Minister looked around the city as they took what felt to be a deliberate scenic route. The architecture brilliant and a shining example of its period. The aides were in awe. Many of them had seen Saint Dominico in pictures but never in person. The Most Blessed State of Inquista truly was a spectacle to behold.
"Magnifique," gasped one of the aides.
"Oui, I thought so myself," the Prime Minister smiled. She was even more impressed by the escort of the Inquistan National Guard. The crowds outside were a sight to be seen. "I am very flattered to be given such a wonderful welcome."
The masks, the famous masks of the Inquistan Renaissance, were vibrant and lively giving everything such delight.
"La Renaissance était à Inquista ce que l'Illumination était à Gallorum," another aide, this one male, said out loud. "I always read that the stretch of our nations began there. Two Orthodox nations in splendour with each other from one era to the next."
The limousine stopped and Prime Minister Baschet and her aides were greeted by more national guard before seeing the laity and the red carpet. It felt right; not only because she knew of what they were singing but why it is she knew it. Orthodoxy was something that Catholicism never could be. It was the blend of representation through ceremony and piety through action.
Archbishop Craticus took the Prime Minister's hand and she shook it back.
"D'accord, Archevêque Craticus. Le plaisir est à moi et à Gallorum," the Prime Minister answered. She stood for the national anthems, feeling a strong sense of national pride as she heard the opening fanfare of the Gaulois national anthem. She remarked that Inquista's had a timeless beauty to it. Well, she did so in her head. Lizzo and the choir performed remarkably well. Once the anthems were over, Baschet smiled as Lizzo moved into formation.
'Yes, this is a culture of excellence and finery,' thought Baschet.
She obliged to follow the Archbishop once he moved towards the Palace. The Prime Minister was genuinely interested in the history of both Inquista and the Church, but she was careful to be quiet. She wanted to take in as much as she could. Never in her life.... from the girl growing up in the mining community outside of Passages to the marine academy to becoming the first female Marine Commando to a candidate for her local party to Prime Minister...never could she imagine she'd be here.
"Oh, I'm sorry. I am absolutely enthralled by everything. I may have a title of high office now but I too dreamed of being somewhere like this. In fact, the Queen of Gallorum often comments that I attend our weekly visits much like a girl in a sweets shop that knew she couldn't touch."
She lit up at the prospect of a rugby match.
"Oh, that will be great fun! Les Gallos should be up to face the famed Inquistan side. I heard you did quite well in the last Rugby World Cup!" the Prime Minister smiled. They walked down the famous Golden Hall, a place she had seen great leaders walk down. The Prime Minister returned to Earth once the Archbishop mentioned the relationship between the Most Blessed State and the Kingdom.
"Yes; I found myself saying that several times in preparation for this meeting. Our people could and should see each others as brothers in Christ. A proper Orthodox alliance. '
Once the topic of trade popped up, the Prime Minister opened her bag and pulled out her government folder and also a piece of iron.
"We do believe that we can do business with Inquista. We are very aware of your economic prowess and trading expertise as a nation. It seems like nothing has changed since the Renaissance about that. What Gallorum can offer you is raw materials, educational industry, and an advanced workforce. We are known for having plenty of coal, iron, copper, potassium, nickel and sodium. We also have plenty of natural gas. Now, we have cut down on emissions quite a bit but we have enough to power our factories should the time arise. Our manufacturing base is cheaper than the average advanced economy, thanks to economically friendly monetary policy that keeps us comparable to the larger economies but gives our citizens more competitive edge. We are also punching higher because we are productive. Education and culture, in particular, and the industries that surround that like publishing, visual and digital media, we thrive in. Most of all, our workforce is very adaptable. Gallorum prides itself on discipline as national ethos. We value people who have great self-discipline and can fill their roles and do the right thing without being asked. When you ask something to be made in Gallorum, there is a quality that is competitive right across the world. Forgive, Archbishop, I do get passionate when describing my nation."
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"Please, do not apologize," Craticus said as he leaned forward, placing his full attention on Prime Minister Baschet. "Having passion for one's nation is a virtue. I can tell that you are a true patriot. I'm not surprised, given your military background. The European Union needs more leaders like yourself."
Craticus then began to lean slightly back in his seat and studied the bit of iron that the Prime Minister held. "Besides, I find Gallorum most fascinating. I'd be most eager to visit your nation in the future. Until then, you can continue to paint a picture of Gallorum to me in as great detail as you please."
The Archbishop then took a sip from the coffee that was on his lap before continuing. "I find the ethos of the Gallic people to be most admirable. I especially admire the dedication of your people to the principles of equality, excellence, family, respect and discipline. These are the ingredients to success, as evidenced by the productivity of your nation. The way you put faith in God, as well as faith in yourselves, is remarkable. It explains the economic success of your nation. Like David and Goliath, it doesn't matter about one's size - it matters about how one uses one’s virtues and faith to overcome all obstacles, no matter how large."
"It's important to keep these virtues, as well as faith, in our hearts and minds as we tackle the modern problems facing our nations and our economies. Automation has replaced countless skilled workers, while the climate crisis poses itself as an ever graver threat to our existence, and corporate elites have continued bleed our nations dry. While we stand at the crossroads, we stand as Davids, while the current challenges stand as Goliaths. Gallorum is blessed to have an adaptable, skilled, educated and modern workforce. I'd like to think Inquista has the same, and it is these types of workforce that will propel us to move forward in this new age."
Craticus took another sip of his coffee and then placed it on the table beside him.
"We have taken particular note of your publishing and digital media sectors. Adapting to the times is important. However, it's even more important that we are ahead of our fellow competitors. We would be happy to work closely with Gallorum in terms of facilitating mutually-beneficial transitions to more digitally-advanced economies and digitally-literate cultures. Both our nations seem to be bursting at the seams with the output of our respective digital media sectors. We could continue to grow these sectors together by spurring e-commerce between our countries. I suggest that we removed all online financial exchange barriers between our nations, such as barriers to online currency exchanges, to buying and selling products online, as well as buying and selling online services. In addition, I suggest that we integrate our systems for online licensing, patents and intellectual property."
"In terms of natural resources," Cratius continued, eyeing the iron held by the Prime Minister, "I suspect that you already know that you are saying what we would like to hear. You have already seen Saint Dominico. It has a lot of things, but natural resources are unfortunately not one of them. The last piece of coal dug up in this country was in 1938, and instead of circulating it in the Inquistan economy, we decided to put it into a museum. The Inquistan economy continues to grow at an escalating pace, and the need to fuel our economic growth is imperative. Resources such as copper, potassium and nickel, which Gallorum possess, are especially vital to the manufacturing sector of Inquista. Inquista is a thirsty market, with many high-price buyers, who would love nothing more than to buy Gallic resources and products. Inquistans are not only eager to buy your resources, but they are also eager to invest in Gallorum’s own sectors. Thus, I would propose that we dismantle all barriers between our agricultural, nature resource and manufacturing sectors, and that we allow for the free flow of monetary capital between our countries, including online financial capital, as I previously mentioned."
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The Prime Minister paused. Gallorum's economic worth, 2.1 trillion euros, was only 1/6th the size of Inquista's economy. Gallorum was still building and growing and this was an immense opportunity. She began.
"Obviously, the barriers to capital, sales and the like between our two nations should come down. My only concern is of course ensuring the rights of the workforce. I will say yes to this if we can ensure that we have some harmonisation on workers' rights, workplace standards, workplace disputes and a way to register to have the right to work in both nations. It is right, though, that we try to work as close as possible in the challenges that we face together. With allies in Christ, we can find ways to do many things. Of course when it comes to the products and services themselves, we absolutely will ensure that it is zero tariff trade. I will respect the right of Inquista to apply any VAT or GST to Gallic goods and services in Inquista as long as goods made in Inquista are subject to the same VAT or GST. The same, then, would be true of Inquistan products and services in Gallorum.
"In order to facilitate the free movement of goods, I'm sure the Archbishop would want free movement of people between our nations. I am sure that with proper documentation, proof of employment and comparable background checks, the right to abode and the right to work can be included in a deal that allows visa-free travel between our nations. Would that suit the Archbishop?"
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Archbishop Craticus nodded keenly in agreement as he shifted in his seat.
"I would most certainly be happy to include the harmonization of worker's rights, workplace standards and workplace disputes into an agreement. After all, whatever agreement that we draw up today should only be in the best interest of our workers. Protecting the well-being of our people should always come before profit. Not only our workers, but also for our environment. I would be most pleased if you would also agree to a clause which would require that Gallorum join Inquista in reducing its current levels of greenhouse gas emissions by at least 12% by 2030. I would also like to make it clear that Inquista has banned chloride and sulfur pollutants, and we would like to refrain from trading with countries which still allow those pollutants to be emitted.
"I agree to your proposal on free movement. As long as travelers abide by the current rules and regulations of both our countries, and carry the proper documentation, then I see no reason not to allow it. After all, I am aware that Gallorum is country which many Inquistan tourists visit each year, and I would thus like to see the burden of travel eased for them. In addition to visa-free travel, I would like to give special attention to the students which study in each of our own respective countries. Education is obviously quite important to Gallorum, as it is to Inquista. As you mentioned, Gallorum has a robust education sector, and it is home to many prestigious universities. In order to encourage students to study between our countries, as well as to make studying easier in general, I suggest that we give certain guarantees to the study permits that our students obtain while studying at the other state. We should guarantee that study permits allow students to stay in the respective state for the duration of the time of their degree, as well as a year-long grace period following the completion of their degree. Study permits should also allow students to work in the host country without requiring a work permit or any other permit."
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Prime Minister Baschet smiled. She knew that a bill was coming forward to get emissions down by 25% in 2030, so when the Archbishop mentioned that she replied, "We have a bill on the floor of the Chamber of Deputies when Parliament resumes that will pledge this current and future governments to reducing emissions by 25% in 2030, so that takes care of that part. Gallorum has also banned similar pollutants now.
"I am absolutely confident that the changes to study permits to allow students to stay in the country to complete their degree and also stay for a grace period and work will be accepted at home. "
"Now, I did remember you wanted to talk about security cooperation. Apart from a standard defensive treaty and training exercises, would anything catch your eye?"
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"It is of the utmost importance that we cooperate on defending the peace, liberty and sovereignty of our respective states. As you suggest, a defensive pact and joint military exercises would be most beneficial.
"I would also suggest that we share intelligence and create an intelligence-sharing network and database between our respective militaries. The European Union has been no stranger to terrorism. Not even Inquista has been immune to its horrors. As I'm sure you know, Inquista has a history with the Crusade Against Corruption. While Inquista was once a playground for those terrorist actors, we have been without incident since 2013, and Inquista is now one of the safest countries in Europe. Inquista managed to avoid being one of the many states targeted in the 2015 terrorist attacks, which included such powers as the Duxburian Union and Angleter. Inquista has managed to successfully combat and suppress terrorism through our steadfast dedication to sharing and using intelligence gathered by our allies.
"Furthermore, Inquista is particularly dedicated to safeguarding the data, privacy and information of our citizens, businesses and Church. Since becoming Archbishop, I have dedicated an exceptional amount of attention to developing Inquista's cyberdefense and cyberwarfare capabilities. This is an area of defense in which Inquista continues to divert more attention and resources with each passing year. As a result of these efforts, Inquista was one of the few if not only states that was largely unaffected by the hacking practices of the Duxburian Union and its corporations following the revelations made by Mr. Snowden. I would happily arrange for Inquistan cyberdefense technicians to train and share best practices with your own intelligence units. A joint cyberdefense network, in addition to the intelligence-sharing network, could be set-up, and Inquista and Gallorum could work together to fend-off cyberterrorism. "
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"Absolutely, Archbishop Craticus. Both points on defence are something that the Government can get behind. We are saddened that Inquista was targeted at all, but appreciate the immense work that your intelligence and security forces have been able to do. The Duxburian hack sounds quite frightening. We've seen them before coming to the European Union and I think that their capability is absurd.
"Still, we believe in Gallorum that it is best to act with friendly intent backed by strength of conviction. We may be a new nation, and perhaps not the most powerful but our strength is in our people, our culture, and our values," the Prime Minister replied. She looked at her notes and it seemed to be the end of her talking points.
"Quelle surprise! I don't seem to have too much else to add to this, Archbishop. Would you care to add anything else, or shall we leave it to the aides to sort out some of the details and legal terminology?"
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Barely before the Prime Minister could finish her question, Mr. Costa jumped up from his seat.
"Madame Prime Minister, I have been carefully summarizing all the the points of the negotiations today. I have already formatted all points into a short declaration. That is, of course, unless His Holiness has anything to add?" Mr. Costa said turning to face Archbishop Craticus.
"No, that is it, thank you, Costa. I believe we have discussed all the points we intended to cover today. I am quite pleased that we see eye-to-eye, Prime Minister," Craticus said as he lifted his cup of coffee from the side table. Craticus then proceeded to finish the remainder of his coffee in one final gulp.
Mr. Costa then turned to the Prime Minister. "Of course, as you say, we will have some lawyers and other aides codify today's agreement into an official agreement that will be presented to both our legislatures for ratification. However, this declaration I have created here will serve as the stand-in document which you will both be able sign today."
Mr. Costa suddenly produced the agreement out of nowhere and handed it to Craticus. Quickly producing documents was one of Mr. Costa's many talents. Craticus hurriedly scanned the document with a steely, concentrated gaze. As Craticus studied the document, Mr. Costa crossed to the other side of the study towards a fireplace. Mr. Costa reached above the fireplace and picked up a small, intricately designed metal box that was sitting on the mantle. The small metal box seemed centuries old and the copper colour was in the midst of fading into a bleak white colour. Mr. Costa walked back to the Archbishop and opened the box, revealing a metal pen inside. Craticus carefully grabbed the pen from the velvet interior of the box and signed the agreement.
"Perfect," Craticus muttered aloud as he signed the declaration.
Craticus then placed the pen back into the box. The Archbishop handed the agreement towards Mr. Costa, who then grabbed the document with his right hand as he carefully held the box in his left hand. Mr. Costa then spun around and walked towards the Gallic Prime Minister, holding out both the declaration and the pen.
Craticus then began to speak again, stating one last final request. "I would be most pleased if I could visit Gallorum in the future, particularly to meet with the leaders of the Gallic Orthodox Church. It wouldn't be to discuss matters of state. Rather, I would be interested in starting dialogue towards a partial communion of our Orthodox Churches. While I know this doesn't concern the authority of your office, I'm sure you know people who know people that can set this visit up for another time."
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"Monseigneur Germain, Archbishop of Saint-Therese...he'd be the one I could talk to about getting the Gallic Orthodox Church to become in partial communion with the Inquistan Orthodox Church. I'll make sure to mention it to Her Majesty when I return. She and the Archbishop communicate quite frequently as head of state and head of the national religion," the Prime Minister replied to Paul as she signed the document as well.
She pulled out her own pen. Her pen was the colours of the flag of the Kingdom and had a small golden rooster head on the top.
"Thank you, Archbishop. I have had this pen as a gift from being out of service from the Marine Commandos and I always bring it with me to sign any documents," the Prime Minister replied. "It has been a pleasure. Now, off to enjoy some refreshment and sport, non? I hope they give us a good match today! Oh, I did bring this as a present from Gallorum."
The aides brought in two crates: one was clearly labelled vin and the other champagne.
"We've brought you the finest in Gallic wines and champagne. The wine crate has Bordeaux cabernet and Bourgogne pinot noir from premier cru; the champagne of course is one of our best labels. The champagne is Krug's Clos de Mesnil."
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Cratcicus' eyes lit up when he saw the crates of wine and champagne brought into the room by the Gallic aides. The Archbishop's normally very serious face cracked for a second, showing a rare moment of true joy wash up on his face. "Prime Minister! You shouldn't of," Craticus said, bringing his hands to his mouth. "God bless you. This is an amazing gift, thank you. Thank you."
After being in a state in pure excitement, Craticus nearly fell backwards from his seat and quickly snapped back to reality. "We also have a gift for you, Prime Minister. Costa, please?" Craticus said catching his balance and looking upwards to Mr. Costa.
Mr. Costa left the room and then quickly entered again, very carefully carrying what seemed to be a large red velvet cushion with both his hands. On top of the cushion were some glass earrings and glass necklaces. Mr. Costa carefully walked to the Gallic Prime Minister and showed her the gifts.
"I've been told these are from Laurel Conti's upcoming autumn collection. She's one of Inquista's most renowned jewelers. Glass jewelry is a traditional style native of Saint Dominico. I have also been told this one is a special one-of-a-kind apparently, made just for the occasion of your visit," Mr. Costa noted, pointing to one of the pair of glass earnings which was decorated in red, white and blue, the national colours of Gallorum.
Craticus then got up from his seat and shook hands with Prime Minister Baschet. "Prime Minister, it has been an absolute pleasure to host these discussions with you today. I cannot express how grateful I am that you were able to join me today and that we were able to come to such a mutually beneficial agreement. This agreement is just the beginning of what will surely be an exceptioanlly cooperative and friendly alliance between our nations."
After shaking hands with the Prime Minister, Craticus took a step towards the door and gestured for the Gallic Prime Minister to follow. "Now, let us have some lunch before we depart for the rugby game. The game will begin in about an hour and a half, but the stadium is less than 20 minutes away. We can enjoy some light food and refreshments before we leave. I requested that we only have a single course meal. We will probably have more to eat and drink at the game later, so our lunch won't be anything grandiose."
Archbishop Craticus then led the Gallic Prime Minister and her aides through the maze of Archbishop's Palace to the other side of the building, where a small theatre was located. The theatre was a very small, intimate room which was luxuriously decorated and seemed to be very old. It was an intimate place where the Prime Minister and the Archbishop could dine while receiving a performance from the nearby stage. A large table was set up in the middle of the theatre room for the Archbishop and the Prime Minister, while smaller tables were set up around the room for the Gallic and Inquistan aides, who were encouraged to mingle with one another.
"This theatre is one of the original rooms of the Archbishop's Palace." Craticus explained as he seated the Gallic Prime Minister and himself. "It was built with the Palace in 1340. It's seen many performances since then. Ludocvico Einaudi performed a concert in here for me and other members of the Inqusitan Orthodox Church only just last week. Mr. Einaudi will be making an appearance at the Royal Festival of European Arts and Culture on behalf of Inquista. I do hope you will be able to hear one of his compositions."
A waiter then materialized beside the Archbishop and Prime Minister. Before letting the waiter speak, the Archbishop's eyes lit up again and he looked at the Prime Minister with a smile. "Ah, could we start with a bottle of champagne that our most esteemed guests brought for us? Krug's Clos de Mesnil," Craticus commanded. "Thank you."
The waiter bowed. The waiter left and then quickly returned with a silver tray, carrying two champagne flutes and the bottle of champagne requested by the Archbishop. The waiter carefully placed the champagne flutes by the Archbishop and Prime Minister and poured the Gallic champagne. The waiter then stood up straight and talked in a quiet, cool tone. "For lunch we will be serving a Panzanella salad with truffles and blue cheese vinaigrette."
The water bowed again and returned with two more silver trays, carrying the salads for the Archbishop and Prime Minister. After serving the food, the waiter bowed once more and left the table.
The theatre room suddenly went very dark as a light was then shone onto the theatre stage. Craticus looked up from his food and gazed at the stage. "Lizzo will be performing. With her flute, again," Craticus explained. "I think."
> Lizzo got up on stage and started to play the flute to the tune of her song"Juice".
As Lizzo played her flute she jumped from the stage onto the nearest table, kicking the food and drinks off the table as she played her instrument and danced. Lizzo then jumped onto another nearby table and continued to dance as she played. Lizzo hopped from table to table until she finally hopped onto the table of the Archbishop and Prime Minister. Lizzo stepped on both of the salads of the Prime Minister and the Archbishop and twerked while playing her flute. Lizzo then slut dropped. "Gallorum be up here in this bitch! Bienvenue to Inquista!"
Lizzo then made her way around round the rest of the room, kicking and standing on the food, twerking and dancing. Finally, Lizzo's song came to a crescendo and ended. Lizzo ran back on the stage and bowed. Archbishop Craticus looked down at his ruined salad and muttered in disappointment, "Well, I wasn't hungry anyway."
All the Inquistans in the room stood up and began clapping and cheering. "Lizzo! Lizzo! Lizzo!" they cheered.
Archbishop Craticus got up from his seat and clapped. The Archbishop then looked at the Gallic Prime Minister. "Does Gallorum also have high culture?"
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The Prime Minister gasped when she saw the earrings and necklace. She bowed upon receiving them before saying, "These are wonderful, Archbishop. Glass jewelry has a delicate nature and clarity unlike the metals and precious stones. Thank you so much. I will cherish these forever."
The Prime Minister received the handshake and answered back, "D'accord, Archbishop. This has been an extraordinary trip to an extraordinary nation. Gallorum is honoured to have a friend in Inquista, and I agree that this is the beginning of a cooperative, friendly and special alliance between our nations. "
The aides, in a split-second private moment gave the Prime Minister a thumbs up. She smiled back at them before the Archbishop announced lunch.
"Oh, that sounds wonderful!" Ms. Baschet answered back. "I do personally enjoy a nice Inquistan-style salad. The cuisine here is so fresh and vibrant." The theatre's decorations reminded the Prime Minister of some of the ornate designs at the Palais Vaillant, the summer palace of the Royal Family of Gallorum.
Ludovico Einaudi, a wonderful composer, was someone that the Prime Minister was not familiar with. When it came to the popular composers of Gallorum, the European greats...Mozart, Bach, Beethoven, were familiar. Chopin, Debussy, Ravel, Saint-Saens and Tchaikovsky were born in Gallorum and their music constantly filled concert halls and salons.
"Excellent, I look forward to his performance and the Inquistan delegation as well," Prime Minister Baschet said to the Archbishop, tucking into the salad.
As Lizzo performed, even when she surprised the Prime Minister, she was thoroughly entertained. She was caught slightly off-guard by the Archbishop's question.
"If there is one thing the Gaulois take in whenever they travel to another country is they take in the culture. They find a museum, they go to the theatre, they see the fashion and then they digest it and appreciate it," the Prime Minister explained. "I may be biased, but Gallorum has had an embarrassment of cultural riches to choose from and it permeates the culture. We love it when people come here and bring their best examples of their nation. The Royal Family are patrons of the high art, and our people appreciate all art. Lizzo would do amazingly well in Gallorum's arenas on a concerto tour. As would Beyonce or Adele...but someone basic like a Tinashe or a Ciara might find it rougher to gain traction.
"Our pop stars...Stromae, Angele, Aya Nakamura, Matt Pokora, Anais Delva, Christine and the Queens, Mome, LUM!X, Lara Fabian, Celine Dion...they have something about them that have given them some longevity. But I'm sure you could say the same thing about the pantheon of pop stars in Inquista," replied the Prime Minister. "We pride ourselves on a rich heritage of culture but we also pride ourselves in staying relevant and putting out high quality and being on the cutting edge of visual and performance art. Our cinema is world renown for its artistic aims and goals. One day, I'd like to see a film festival circuit so we can see the biggest and highest achieving art films of our nations," replied the Prime Minister.
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"Gallorum has quite the musical talent! I’m a big fan of Celine Dion myself. I'm glad that she's making music again. She's definitely an icon. Inquista and Gallorum ought to put together some sort of musical festival to showcase the musical talent of our up-an-coming artists. I can give you the contact information of Bishop Secretary Penelope Clarke, my Bishop Secretary of Sport, Culture and Tourism. I'm certain she would be ecstatic to organize some sort joint musical festival with your relevant government minister.
"A film festival circuit would be amazing, too! Paolo Sorrentino and Luca Guadagnino will be showcasing some of their finest films on behalf of Inquista at the expo in Aurelis. There's far more film talent that needs to be recognized, however, and a film circuit would be an amazing opportunity to showcase the creativity and imaginations of our people. I will make certain that an Inquistan delegation would be present for such an event.
"Between you and I, there's actually a film being made about me at the moment. It's being made by a big studio with a big budget. It's not really autobiographical, though. It's more of a political thriller. I'm not really supposed to say anything. All I will say is that they’ve cast Luke Evans as me, which initially made me pretty happy because he's a fantastic actor. But they've cast Kit Harington as Councillor Firoux and I'm not pleased that they've cast someone much more handsome than Luke Evans in that role. At tops, Councillor Firoux is a 5/10, don't you agree? Seems biased to me."
As Archbishop Craticus finished rambling, he glanced down at his watch. "Ah. We ought to get going. I'm sure our aides will begin harassing us at any minute in attempt to get us to depart. We have 50 minutes until the match begins."
Craticus got up from his seat and stood up straight. "Prime Minister... may I call you Elisabeth? Please feel free to call me Paul. I will have an aide escort you and your delegation back to your vehicle, and we will meet up again at the stadium. The friendly is being played at City Circus Stadium. It's by the ocean, so it’s quite the sight. I will see you again there."
... ... ...
The crowd was roaring in excitement as the Gallic and Inquistan national rugby teams clashed. While the game was technically an international friendly, both the teams were among the strongest of Europe, so it quickly became a highly competitive game.
Archbishop Craticus is very competitive and he often found himself getting emotionally invested in sports games, and this was no exception. He pitied the Gallic Prime Minister who had to put up with his antics. Craticus twitched in his seat as the score line between the two teams continued to remain close. When a Gallic winger managed to intercept the ball from an Inquistan pass, Archbishop Craticus jumped up from his seat with his wine in his hand. The Archbishop then began to wave his arms wildly in a bout of anxiety, with his wine splashing out of his cup and onto his shoes and the shoes of the Gallic Prime Minister.
"Come on!" Craticus yelled in frustration at the game below.
The Gallic winger then ran across the field and managed to score a try, sending Craticus into a fit. Craticus threw his cup and the remainder of its content into the crowd below. Craticus clasped his hands together and then hung his head down and began to pray that Gallorum wouldn't be able to score the conversion point.
Craticus began to whisper the Gloria Patri aloud. "Gloria Patri, et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto. Sicut erat in principio, et nunc, et semper, et in saecula saeculorum. Amen."
He looked upwards at the field with restrained disgust. He observed the ball as it flew upward, between the posts, giving Gallorum the two extra conversion points.
Archbishop Craticus instantly fell back into his seat, rage storming across his face.
... ... ...
After the game was over, the Archbishop and the Prime Minister went onto the field and met with both of the national teams. Archbishop Craticus shook the hands of the Inquistan team, telling them how proud he was of them. He then shook the hands of the Gallic players, telling them how well they had played today. Archbishop Craticus and Prime Minister Elisabeth Baschet then posed with both of the teams and allowed the press to take pictures. After the small media affair, the Archbishop approached the Gallic Prime Minister for a farewell.
"The Gallic squad played magnificent today. They were a pleasure to meet as well. The ethos of your people runs deep. Considering the discipline and organization of your people, I'm not surprised that they make formidable rugby players."
Craticus smiled and extended his hand to the Prime Minister.
"Again, I would just like to reiterate what a pleasure it has been to host you in Inquista on this blessed day. I'm certain it won't be too long before I make my way to Gallorum. Please pass on my best wishes to your government.
“I will introduce the agreement that we drafted today to the College of Bishops once we reconvene in the beginning of September. It will ratified with the utmost urgency and efficiency. I hope I can expect the same.
“Well, I will let you and your team be on their way. I have passed on my personal phone number to one of the aides who works in your office. You can personally call me should you need anything. You will always have an ally in me in Inquista. I hope that you have a safe and pleasant trip back to Gallorum. Take care and may God bless you."
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"Oh perfect! I'll make sure to connect Bishop Secretary Clarke with Culture Minister Audrey Azoulay. I think they'll get on well and continue to foster opportunities for our citizens to experience Inquistan culture and vice versa," the Prime Minister smiled.
When she was told about the film and who was playing whom, she looked for a moment. She didn't think Kit Harrington was that great of a fit for Councillor Firoux, so she nodded in agreement when the Archbishop mentioned it.
"Non, I'd rather have seen a real cameo for Firoux or someone far less handsome. You have a distinct look that is wonderfully handsome," Ms. Baschet responded. She had heard from Marion Rousselot that Firoux was a very handsome man, but Marion didn't know what she was talking about all the time. Besides, Firoux wasn't her type.
The game was exhilarating and while the Prime Minister did show her joy at the Gallic side getting the job done, she made sure to keep it subdued. It would be extremely rude to have been wined and dined by such a welcoming host and then rub it in their face.
"Thank you for the compliment. Our side definitely felt like they had something to prove going up against the famous Inquistan squad," the Prime Minister said to the Archbishop. "Paul, thank you for being a gracious host. I will be bringing this back to Cabinet and Her Majesty. I'm very certain that royal assent will be given to this. The Chamber of Deputies is full of people who believe in trade, so it should pass.
"Likewise, if you ever need anything in the North, I am a phone call away," the Prime Minister smiled. She returned to the car, ready to return to Gallo Deux and a flight home.
