Emperor Artabanos's Welcome Back Banquet and Reception

Telum, 16th September 2020

The tables in the Imperial Throne room have all been set. The cutlery is arranged to the minutest detail. The correct aperitifs and dietary requirements have all been honoured. Emperor Artabanos's first major banquet and reception since His unfortunate 'accident' last summer is about to begin.

The Emperor worked closely together with Gert Veruylscht, of the Imperial Household, to arrange a detailed seating plan. After attempting to honour most guests' seating preferences (and deliberately not honouring those of others...) the Emperor and Veruylscht produced the following plan:

[OOC: Please do not arrive just yet, Emperor Artabanos will welcome everyone with a post tomorrow (16th September), after which you are free to RP your arrivals.]

I Will Have Order

Part 1

Telum Capital Defence Command

Headquarters of the Imperial Armed Forces

Strategic Meeting of the Imperial Defence Council
Operation Takedown [IC Secret]

Attendance:

• H.I.M. Emperor Artabanos
  
• Imperial Defence Officer Boris Mancov
  
• By secret video link: North Diessen's Minister for National Defence Ekrem Mueller
  
• Chief of the General Staff Vice Admiral John Bauer
  
• Legate for Terra Domini Air Marshal Hugh Donnell
  

Artabanos: "Gentlemen, welcome. As you will be aware, the Imperial Government has finally received a formal request from the Confederacy of North Diessen for military assistance. Our long months of work have come to fruition. Boris, how is the situation in Reuland?"

Mancov: "The State of Reuland borders the Inimician northeast, but cross-frontier roads and passages are infrequent, the border mostly consists of mountanous terrain. Imperial Guard operatives in Reuland have so far managed to sneak across uncaught, and we have no expectation this will change with the de facto independence of the State. Reuland's State authorities have put the weapons we provided to good use, and as far as we are aware the secessionist government now controls most if not all of the major Reuland cities and military supply points."

Artabanos: "Very well. Admiral Bauer, recap what our actions will be once we offer our help."

Bauer: "As we extensively discussed, Your Imperial Majesty, the Imperial Armed Forces (IAF) will enter North Diessen by rail, air, and road, where they will link with Diessen Defence Force units and co-ordinate with them. We currently have the 1st Mountain Brigade, 1st and 2nd Special Air Squadrons, 2nd Army Corps, as well as the 1st and 2nd Air Mobile Brigades, 3rd Fleet, and 2nd Submarine Squadron to participate, of course backed up by several other corps to remain in the Empire. At the time time, our Special Force Command and the 3rd Special Air Squadron will immediately commence covert operations in Reuland from the Fugit Mountain Assault Command in Terra Dominus. Significant IAF presence will be directed towards the Diessenian capital, Het Goor, and towards major Diessenian Defence Force bases, which I have indicated on the map in front of you."

Mancov: "Just to but in here, Vice Admiral: we are currently talking about the first phase of Operation Takedown, correct?"

Bauer: "Correct. Phase One will see IAF units deployed against the Inimician-armed rebels in Reuland. Ironic, perhaps, but necessary. At the time time, our Logistics Command will gain valuable information about Diessenian Defence Force structures and operations, making these much easier to sever in Phase Two. The 3rd Fleet and 2nd Submarine Squadron will pass through the Caspian Canal and into Diessenian waters, however, progress will be deliberately slow, making it unlikely they will reach all the way to Reuland's shores before the rebels are defeated, according to plan, in just a few days. We are estimating our vessels to be in position off the coast closest to Het Goor, carrying units of the amphibious assault command of the 2nd Imperial Guard brigade."

Artabanos: "So, Phase One to last, what, three days?"

Bauer: "Three to four. We are to meet again here once our objectives have been completed."

Artabanos: "How do we transition from Phase One to Phase Two?"

Bauer: "To most people, it will not be a noticeable change. Our brigades have been extensively trained in covert operations and are expected to apprehend most Diessenian Defence Force units without fighting. Not that there are many DDF units to arrest -- we are likely to outnumber them two-to-one at least. At the same time, the Imperial Guard will make its way under the cover of darkness to the government quarter in Het Goor, apprehending President Inge Pekcan and her confidantes, and installing Mueller into office."

Artabanos: "Ekrem -- objections?"

Mueller: "None. Apologies for whispering, I am the face of anti-Reuland resistance here at home. If caught conspiring, my sentence would be worse than death. How long could we maintain such a, well, covert invasion, from being noticed, Vice Admiral?"

Bauer: "Not for long, which is why Operation Takedown, Phase 2 will take no more than 12 hours. President Pekcan's demise will be put down to infiltration by Reuland's paramilitaries, and the Imperial Guard presence there as a countermeasure. Pekcan is to be 'wounded', and Mueller is to take over as a temporary measure at first. Obviously, in the long term, our other planning will have to take care of that."

Mueller: "Perfect, thank you."

Artabanos: "Follwing the successful conclusion of Operation Takedown, I will award Mueller with the Grand Cross of the Order of the Empire, and make him an Associate Member of the Imperial Defence Council, an Honourary Citizen of the Empire, and allow him a personal Imperial Guard detachment to escort him wherever he goes."

Mancov: "Excellent. We look forward to having you as an ally, Ekrem."

Artabanos: "Gentlemen, perfect. Start time for Phase One of Operation Takedown is 1800 hrs today. Thank you."

Walking from the Situation Room, Artabanos thought "What a way to celebrate the Empire's 10-year anniversary. Adding three new territories to its dominion." His nerves began to rise, and He had a swift drink before exiting the lift and going about His day.

Office of Premier Commissioner Dr Walter Cocx

12th May 2021
RE: Failure of Istkalen Sanction Motion

"Europeans,

Another attempt at a peaceful isolation of a rogue regime in the heart of Europe has failed. By one vote, Councillors decided to let the terror emerging from Istkalen roam free. Representatives of our nations and peoples, whose role in the entire Sanctions process resulted from a major concession on the side of the Sanction Act's sponsors, frustrated its progress for the second time.

Although it is not my responsibility that region-wide sanctions against Istkalen now remain a distant, faint imagination, as Premier Commissioner I must, however, take said responsibility. It is with this in mind that I am announcing today that I will not be standing for re-election to a second term in this office. It has become clear to me that the basis on which the peoples of this Union elected me to this high office, a tough stance against rogue states, is not shared by the political establishment in Europolis. I cannot, in good faith, continue to operate under such circumstances.

The start of my Premiership was, in my opinion, an era of hope. The Sanctioning Act was passed and amended with liberal majorities - a comprehensive process marked by checks and balances from both main European bodies, the Commission and Council, was established. A time of opportunity for this Union beckoned, a time when reasonable, democratic, rule-of-law nations could make a joint fist against destabilising rogue regimes.

Yet, in the first attempt at making such a fist, against the USNR, the Council frustrated the legal process with slanderous and disgraceful fillibuster and introduction of nonce amendments. Conduct which sends a message of carelessness and elitism to the peoples of this Union. While they worry about the impact of a terrorist regime taking over a nuclear-armed state, politicians in Europolis thought it wise to submit 70+ amendments changing single words to a serious Sanction Motion.

Now, Councillors are debating ways in which this same hostile regime can make a re-entry into the European family of nations, an abhorrent, disgusting move which every democratically-minded Councillor should object to no matter what. This move reinforces my belief that I cannot, in good faith, continue to function as your Premier after my turn ends. I hope I can continue to support and lead you in another capacity, as my one true love remains the care for the peoples of Europe. Thank you."

COMMONS ELECTIONS: FINEST WIN PLURALITY, MOVEMENT GAINS -- TRADITIONAL PARTIES SUFFER

Electoral Results Map of Inimicus. Purple: Centre-Conservative Union; Blue: Inimician Liberal Appeal; Pink: Emperor's Finest; Red: People's Movement; Yellow: Central Progressive Party; Green: United Green Front; Grey: Independent.

Telum, 3rd May 2021 -- The Imperial Electoral Commission confirmed the results of the House of Commons election 2021 proceeded according to standards set out in law. Polls closed at 6pm today, following an election predicted to see an earth-shattering victory for the Emperor's Finest, a catch-all party advocating strongly for the Imperial system, and support for Emperor Artabanos. Today's results show exactly how earth-shattering this victory truly is. From no seats won in 2020, the Finest will send 292 members to Telum come June, a staggering 36% of seats.

"The Inimician People have spoken", Finest leader Hetty Tilki announced to roaring crowds in Lacerta after the results were announced, "They have said Yes to the Imperial System. They have said 'I serve' to His Imperial Majesty. And they have said 'Convict Them' to the traitors who sought to destroy Him. Today is a victory for all of Inimicus, and for the Emperor."

Gains were also made by the People's Movement, who nearly doubled their MPs by winning 90 seats. Outspoken critics of the Emperor and the Imperial System, the Movement capitalised on recent controversies surrounding the arrest of members of the Barrington family, and the Imperial Armed Forces raid into Neo-Venetia. Movement leader Adolf Danube called today "a wake-up call for the Emperor and His clique" and announced he would be filing motions in Parliament calling for the impeachment of the Emperor.

Results from the Terra Praestoris Imperial Council by-election are expected shortly, with preliminary results suggesting a narrow yet consistent lead for Finest leader Tilki, who is trailed by Movement leader Danube and other parties. Full results of the Commons vote are given below.

“Is it straight, Gert?”

“Straighter than you are, Your Imperial Majesty.”

“As if that’s a challenge.”

Emperor Artabanos adjusted his black bow-tie one final time, pulled on the bottom of his blazer to flatten it out, sighed heavily, and nodded at his Household representative. Gert truly had been an inspirational organiser for this event, one which would see Inimicus, and Artabanos personally, return to the centre of European politics. He hoped. It could also turn into a fighting and screaming match between Reitzmag and Spain, or between Reitzmag and Menrimiak, or between Reitzmag, and, well, someone else.

Artabanos surveyed the room one final time. Everything was just about to His liking – not that he really cared all that much for the exact arrangement of the Imperial logos on the cutlery and plates. He cared more for the prestige this event might bring Him. The relationships it might forge. The possibilities that awaited. As he stretched to slightly twist a wine glass at the seat of Austrian President Van der Bellen, he felt a shudder of pain down his entire torso. ”Fuck”, He thought. Not tonight. He had been living with this pain for the last three months, and only in the few weeks leading up to today had the sudden bouts of shooting pains subsided. He briefly looked around to see if anyone else was in the room, before grabbing into his chest pocket and swiftly taking a large gulp of spirit from a small flask. He knew He shouldn’t. His doctor had told Him it wouldn’t help. But somehow, it did, and it had done for several months.

He composed Himself and walked towards the entrance, where Gert was already waiting for Him. “Everything in order, Your Imperial Majesty?”

“Immaculate, as expected, Gert. Thank you.”

Just in time, Vicarius Wilfred Cocx and Imperial Consul Lord Christopher Strathclyde show up, the former anxiously looking around and tugging at various parts of his Imperial state suit, the latter walking rather sluggishly, attempting to light a cigar while still keeping a sense of composure.

“Immaculate, gentlemen”, Artabanos said with His familiar sense of irony, “I trust you’ve all been reading up on the family names, functions, and personal histories of all our guests tonight?”

Christopher smiled slyly. Wilfred’s eyes exuded a sense of panic, and he stuttered, “w-well, yes, I –”

Artabanos laughed and turned to Gert. “When can we expect the first guests?”

“Momentarily. I even think… Yes! Here they are, right now!”

[OOC: feel free to RP your arrivals. Have fun!]

Deputy Speaker Matthew Burch, People's Movement Leader Adolf Danube

June 11th, 2021 -- 9.00am

Deputy Speaker Burch Opens Parliament

MB: "Order, order. I formally declare this ninth sitting of the Ninth Parliament of the Empire of Inimicus opened. Our first order of business is an emergency motion submitted by the Hon. Adolf Danube, and seconded by the Hon. Maria Costley. I call the Hon. Adolf Danube."

Sighs can be heard in the chamber. AD rises and proceeds to the lectern.

AD: "Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. Today I rise to move that this Parliament decide on the Empire's national vote for the election of the Premier Commissioner and Internal Affairs Commissioner of the European Union."

Murmuring. Deputy Speaker Burch is seen conversing with clerks. Emperor's Finest Leader Hetty Tilki rises.

HT: "Mr Deputy Speaker, this motion is clearly illegal. The National Imperial Council decides on the Empire's vote for Commission. Parliament, a largely advisory body, cannot, should not, and will not."

AD: "I invite Hon. Tilki to point me to the article of our Constitution that grants the National Imperial Council this power, Mr Deputy Speaker. Indeed, nowhere is it codified that the Council may decide this crucial issue. We, as representatives of the Inimician People, from across our Empire and its territories, have the full popular prerogative to cast this vote. If anything, the European-wide Elected and Accountable Council Act provides the basis for the purely democratic election of European officials. While it is impractical to organise a direct national vote for Commission in such a short timeframe, we can try our best. Mr Deputy Speaker, I request we move to vote immediately."

Several members are seen standing up and shouting over each other. Deputy Speaker MB calls order.

MB: "Hon. Danube, Hon. Tilki. The Imperial Decree calling us together here states, and I quote, "that this Parliament shall decide upon matters of its own choosing". Whether the outcome of the Hon. Danube's motion is legal or not, I cannot refuse his request outright. Unless there are any other speakers, we will now proceed to a vote on the motion."

Silence. A few moments pass.

MB: "Very well. The question is that this House decide on the Empire's national vote for the election of the Premier Commissioner and Internal Affairs Commissioner of the European Union. Honourable members, please indicate your preference using the electronic voting device given to you."

A large screen behind the speaker's chair flicks up with red and green dots. 200 members instantly vote Nay, while another 150 or so are an instant Yea. Reds and greens flock in and their number rises equally. Members are seen easerly watching the screen. Anticipation on all faces. Finally, the Deputy Speaker reads out the count.

MB: "Thank you, Honourable members. The result of the division is as follows. The Yeas are three hundred and forty six. The Neas are three hundred and forty four. So the Yeas have it and the motion is agreed to. This House will vote on the election of the Premier and Internal Affairs Commissioners this afternoon."

Parliament Votes Areai and Čikarová for Commission as Legality of Vote Is Questioned

Telum, 13th June 2021 -- In a shock vote, the House of Commons has declared its support for controverial Commission candidates Josephine Areai, from the war-torn nation of Istkalen, and Sofie Čikarová, spearhead of the Party of the European Left. Following a narrowly-accepted motion by People's Movement leader Adolf Danube, which called for MPs to cast a ballot on Inimicus's votes for Commission, Parliament swiftly decided Inimicus's preferences within half an hour.

Surprisingly, the People's Movement, whose party principles place it on the far right of the political spectrum, voted together with the United Green Front, Central Progressive Party, and splinters of the Emperor's Finest and Inimician Liberal Appeal, to give Ms Čikarová a narrow win in the Commons. It is understood Adolf Danube instructed his MPs to vote for Čikarová, who is an incredibly controversial figure in Inimicus, to cause an almost certain contrast between Parliament's choice and the National Imperial Council's, which is due to vote on the Empire's Commission preferences next week.

Similarly, Movement MPs supported Areai, along with large fractions of the Centre-Conservative Union, Inimician Liberal Appeal, and smaller parties. Parliament expressed its support for Areai by just two votes, with virtually all Emperor's Movement MPs preferring Jean-Claude Juncker, despite his opposition to the European Commission (Sanctioning Powers) Act.

During and immediately after the vote, legal experts questioned the legality of Parliament assuming the prerogative to decide on the national Commission vote. "Ultimately, following the Constitution, this power is reserved to the Emperor", explains legal scholar and European Court of Justice Candidate Benjamin Steyn. "He has delegated this power to whatever instrument He feels fit, in this case, the National Imperial Council. The House of Commons was not given such power in the Imperial Decree calling for its convention, and this vote should therefore not have happened."

Jeff Speller, Imperial Councillor, however, claims Parliament was given the right to decide on matters "of its own choosing", and that therefore, this vote stands. Whether the National Imperial Council will hear it, however, is another matter. "If the Council neglects this decision by the directly-elected representatives of the people", Speller explains, "there can no longer be said to be any democracy in Inimicus. The people's rule will have ended."

"Ah, well, you know, Mikaela and I have a group chat going with Jean-Claude and some other folks", Artabanos began, before swiftly realising that His betrayal would possibly be met with His expulsion from the same chat, "So I may or may not have been directly involved with the selection of your nuclear tour guide. Shame, really -- Gustav, you know, of Fremet, used to be an active member too, but he's sort of in hot waters these days. Anyway... No, my only partner at the moment is my Empire, you could say." Artabanos spoke no further on His love life, and He had never done since those fateful days in 2015, when His last relationship ended in literal bloodshed. For some reason, though, the Czech President for Life had a reassuring aura about her -- perhaps it was because He knew that she, like no other, would know how to use secrets and information strategically for political and personal gain.

He did not know why, but spoke further: "You know, after my last relationship ended, I didn't think I'd ever feel able to trust or to love again. You must know how lonely it can get, being at the top... Sometimes, you just wish you could live a normal life. Go to work at 8, come home at 6 to a family, to have friends to spend weekends with. To have someone to rely on at home." He sighed. Perhaps this was why the Diessenar journalist had piqued His interest so. "Ah well, enough from me ranting, Albina, I'm so sorry. Let's continue."

"Thank you", the Emperor said after showing the President for Life around His personal quarters. "There used to be houses outside this window, but I don't particularly like looking at houses, so there's greenery there now." Where the occupants of said houses had been banished to, Artabanos did not know -- and He could not care. If He cared about such things at all, His sanity, and the sanity of the nation with it, would disappear entirely.

"For sure, I fully admit the main barriers to Czech-Inimician co-operation are currently in place in Inimicus. You know what it's like though -- you nearly get assassinated, you need people to blame." Artabanos thought of Augustus Barrington's face after the renegade ex-councillor had been dragged back in front of Artabanos's feet in chains. Did Augustus fire a cruise missile at Artabanos's plane? No. Had he been annoyingly good at what he did? Yes. And that had been offensive enough. "Now that some time has passed, and with the hopefully good press coverage this meeting will get us, I'm confident in saying the Empire will lift all its economic and diplomatic sanctions against Czech Slavia very, very soon. We're ready to do business."

"As you might know, Inimicus is stuffed full of bauxite, uranium, and natural gas. We're always more than keen on exchanging these resources for things we do not produce ourselves. As for Inimician investment in Czech Slavia, of course! I'm sure the Artabanos Foundation would happily start up a Czech Fund in your nation. For other companies, perhaps we could offer some kind of financial incentive to get some cross-border investment going?"

"I do want to ask one thing, and please don't take this the wrong way, but why exactly did you cancel your attendance to the Arty Party when I returned from my rehabilitation in 2020? I would've loved to meet you much sooner than today."

BREAKING: Imperial Council Rejects Commons Choices for Commission, Calls for Consensus Grow

Meeting chambers of the House of Commons (left) and the National Imperial Council

Telum, 18th June 2021 -- National Imperial Councillors have determined Inimicus's votes for European Commission. By a large majority, the NIC chose Jean-Claude Juncker for Premier and Emma Granger for Internal Affairs Commissioner. These preferences completely contradict the choices made by the House of Commons last week, whose members cast their ballots for controversial candidates Josephine Areai and Sofie Čikarová. Given that Areai resigned from the Internal Affairs race not too long ago, the Council did not consider her in its voting sessions today, meaning even the likes of Jeff Speller IC, whose position was to vote as the Commons did, could not cast their vote for her.

Nevertheless, the choice of Čikarová vs. Juncker causes an unprecedented constitutional crisis on the Empire level. The Constitution does not document who, or which body, is mandated to determine the Inimician vote for Commission. Custom has dictated that the National Imperial Council votes on candidates, but a House of Commons motion by People's Movement leader Adolf Danube triggered a vote by MPs, who narrowly backed Areai and Čikarová. "Who holds power in Inimicus?", asks political correspondent Colin Husky, "Parliament or the Council? More importantly, perhaps, what is the function of Parliament if it does not hold any power?"

Preliminary polling conducted for Nuntius Inimici suggests a near 50/50 split in popular opinion: 43% support the Council determining Commission votes, with 42% favouring the Council. Additionally, 66% support a consensual vote, where both the Council and Parliament determine Inimicus's vote together. This consensual option has also been raised by several Imperial Councillors, including Jeff Speller and Imperial heavyweight Basil Lawson. His Imperial Majesty, who naturally possesses the Prerogative to end this crisis, has not spoken out on the issue yet, but is expected to do so in due course.

'No Talk With the Trigger-Happy': Palace Announces No Backing Down on Duchies & Reitzmag Sanctions

Telum, 15th January 2023 -- The Imperial Palace announced this morning "now is the wrong time" to renege on financial sanctions announced against the United Duchies and the Kingdom of Reitzmag in response to those nations' declarations of war against Svarna Surya. In a press statement this afternoon, His Imperial Majesty Emperor Artabanos further said He was "unfazed" by Duchian threats to seize His personal financial assets in the United Duchies, as well as the Artabanos Foundation's 8% share in Duchian conglomerate Roscoes.

"Not only are My personal affairs much, much smaller in stature and importance than international war", the Emperor announced, "But the value of goods already seized from Duchian citizens and companies since the announcement of sanctions last month has approached the total €143bn the Duchians are threatening to seize." The Imperial Government and the Confederal Government of North Diessen announced last month their unilateral seizure of any and all financial or economic assets held by citizens of the United Duchies, Svarna Suyra, Gadalland and Aspern, or the Kingdom of Reitzmag, under the powers prescribed by the Inimician Constitution and the Diessenar system of Presidential Decrees.

Sources tell Nuntius Inimici that offcials from the United Duchies have been especially intent on alleviating these sanctions. Before sanctions were introduced, Duchian companies were highly active in Inimicus and North Diessen, activity which now benefits only the Imperial and Confederal governments. Critics of this sanction policy, including Imperial Councillor Jeff Speller, have accused the Imperial Government of "playing with people's livelihoods over a mundane cause", and have called on the Government to negotiate with Duchian representatives.

Emperor Artabanos appeared this morning to give no heed to this advice. Asked whether the economic burdens of sanctions weigh up against their political message, He stated the sanctions will remain in place until "the Inimician Peoples can be reassured the nations around us are no longer led by reactionary, jingoistic zealots", and that "the safety of our Peoples, and the People of North Diessen, could never cost too much."

The Imperial Government further announced additional funding to be sent to companies and individuals in North Diessen who may be particularly affected by the current sanctions. "President Karaman has agreed to hand any seized vessels and goods to Imperial Authorities", the Emperor announced, "And Inimicus will, with its large coffers, support the People of North Diessen financially and politically, like We have always done."

No end date for the current sanctions package has yet been announced.

The National Imperial Council of the Empire of Inimicus has determined its vote for Commission as follows:

For the Office of Premier Commissioner:

1. Jean-Claude JUNCKER

For the Office of Internal Affairs Commissioner:

1. Writ HARLAND

I find myself, for once, agreeing with Cllr Lallana. While discussions around common sanctions are ongoing, unilateral action from a couple of member states have already led to armed conflict. The purpose of this Act is therefore null and void. Not to mention that the EU has an established procedure of implementing region-wide sanctions under the European Commission (Sanctioning Powers) Act, and as such introducing an Act such as this is beyond superfluous.

I will oppose passage of this Act. The Empire of Inimicus hopes for a speedy end to this useless conflict.

Nicholas Benfield
Empire of Inimicus

The Empire of Inimicus votes AGAINST this Act.

Nicholas Benfield
Deputy Speaker

Artabanos hated children. But not as much as Strathclyde hated children. And not as much as Strathclyde hated singing, either. The two Inimicians, one tall, lanky, and enjoying the effects of the President for Life's excellent whisky selection, the other short, round, business-like, with a face of stone, must have made for quite the sight for the children of Czech Slavia. What way to represent the Empire of Inimicus.

Nevertheless, Artabanos was nothing if not a great improviser. It had been a combination of extensive planning and proper impulsiveness when it really mattered that had seen Him elevated to the Inimician Throne, that had seen Him fend off countless challengers and internal rebellious sentiments, and most recently, that had seen Him technically double the Empire's land mass. So, He felt confident He could inspire the youth of Czech Slavia to great things.

"Children, students, teachers, it truly is a great honour to be among you, and to be in the presence of your magnificent President for Life. How touching, and how incredible, your pledge of allegiance to her really is. I consider Myself incredibly lucky to call her My friend, and you should consider yourselves incredibly lucky to call her your President for Life. You should all aspire to be like her - although, of course, not to be in her position, as that would be high treason and... well... anyway, yes. Uh. Just, just be inspired by her presence. And, if any one of you here today ever find yourselves in Inimicus, give Me a shout. I'll gladly show you around My most beautiful estates. In fact, perhaps this is something we could organise, Madam President for Life? Wouldn't that be jolly?"

When it was Strathclyde's turn, a period of silence so tense anyone in the room could have touched it began. After a while, all eyes fixed on Strathclyde, the Consul did something Artabanos had never, ever seen him do: he took off his beige jacket. As if possessed by some spirit -- or, perhaps, simply by social pressure -- the Consul quietly yet melodically and passionately sang the refrain from one of the Inquistan Archbishop's number one hit singles. As soon as he had finished, the Consul stormed out, and Artabanos thought He saw the glint of a tear on His number two man's face.

The Consul did not ride back to Prague Castle with the two leaders, although curiously they found him in Albína's office on their return. He said nothing. He did not look at anything but the files he had in his hands. To ease the tension, the Emperor spoke. "Would it be terribly rude of me to ask for another drink? Thanks. Anyway, Albína, to come back to your previous point. Yes, the Artabanos Foundation would certainly like to expand its operations in your beautiful country. Plus, if this gives Me a reason to come visit you more often, I'm all for it anyway.

"The main hurdles we're facing are, as you can imagine, legal ones. We need to get our products approved by your regulatory agencies, we need to get mining, farming, production permits. Any, uh, any leeway or assistance you could give us in this regard would be... most welcomed. And, perhaps, in return, the Foundation and its enterprises could do something for you in return? Or, perhaps, the Inimician government could?"

The National Imperial Council of the Empire of Inimicus casts its votes as follows:

1. Benjamin STEYN (Inimicus)
2. Carlos Lesmes SERRANO (Spain)
3. SVEN LORENZEN (Vayinaod)
4. Dayo Faith MWANGI (Elthize)
5. Christopher VADJA (Reitzmag)

Candidate Name: Justice Benjamin STEYN
Home Nation: Inimicus
Incumbent? (Y/N): Y
Biography:

• 1982: Juris Doctor, Imperial University.
• 1983 - 1997: Practised as a civil lawyer in Astro, Terra Quaestoris.
• 1997 - 2012: Senior Lecturer in Inimician and European Constitutional Law, Imperial University of Telum
• 2001 - 2009: Justice of the Appelate Court for Terra Quaestoris
• 2009 - 2012: Justice of the the Republican (now Imperial) Court of Appeals
• 2012 - present: Justice of the Imperial Crown Court.
• 2012 - present: Emperor's Senior Legal Counsel, responsible for advising the Imperial Government on all legal matters.
• June - November 2021; June - November 2022: Justice of the European Court of Justice
• November 2021 - March 2022: Chief Justice of the European Court of Justice

Justice Benjamin Steyn has served the European Union as a Justice and Chief Justice almost uninterruptedly since June 2021; under his Chief Justiceship, the Court began a process of completing old, semi-dormant cases and heard several new petitions.

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."

"Ah, eh, well, you always look radiant, Albína. Truly, always", said Artabanos, feeling slightly caught out. Swiftly, He turned the subject to the environment in which He now found Himself, the quaint streets of Prague and the age-old sights He had read about in so many old books. "I must also congratulate you on the lovely ceremony you organised, actually. Perhaps I could hire your military band sometime, their rendition of the Imperial Anthem was quite something." The Emperor was bemused by the sight of people turning their heads to watch the duo walking casually through Prague; tourists, Czechs, perhaps even some Inimicians were around. In any case, there was nothing Artabanos liked more than being slightly eccentric.

"Gosh, yes, well, we've certainly had an eventful time since we last met, Albína. I have to credit ol' Strathclyde for most of the work on this new Constitution -- it's all way too much faffing around for me, as you'll understand. But yes! Important changes, for sure." The topic of the Emperor's love life was one He would rather not approach, not even with someone like Reiseróva, who He trusted more than most. "I guess uh, I guess we'll see about who crosses My path - if, that is, people cross other people's paths at My age. But anyway, what's new with you? It's been such a while since we caught up, you'll have to tell me all about what's been happening here!"

Artabanos gladly indulged the opportunity for some joint selfies with the President, and by Himself. "I guess we're not waiting for this clock to strike? Probably for the best, we don't want to get mugged or hassled. Not -- not that people would uh, would do that here, of course." Turning back to the direction of the castle, the Emperor could be seen busily texting on His phone, sending the photos just taken to someone the crowds could only guess the identity of. "Anyway, Albína, to answer your question about Mueller -- such a promising lad, but so disappointing, wouldn't you say? -- I really just wanted the pleasure of trying him Myself. It'll be in the Crown Court, you see, I've arranged for that. Nestor -- I mean, President Karaman -- doesn't mind. He's way too busy with... things. I guess."

Meanwhile, Imperial Consul Strathclyde was being led through the intricate corners of Prague Castle. He had heard of the things that went on inside here, and was keen to learn of the intricacies of Czech government, the intrigue of minister to minister, the ways in which President Reiseróva managed to keep this entire web together. A quality which he admired, greatly. "Thank you for your welcome", the Consul said, "I'm of course very keen to get straight down to business, and pleased you have been appropriately briefed on our investments in the Democratic Republic thus far."

The Consul spoke with the general, weird feeling of condescension that was usual to him. Not intended, per se, perhaps simply a result of his extremely business-like and knowledgeable state during meetings such as these. "It's exciting to hear about the benefits Imperial investments have brought to regions in your nation. We hope that, very shortly, they shall start paying off on the Inimician side, too. So far, revenues have been steady, but not fantastically impressive, so I am happy to hear these suggestions of yours to improve them wherever possible."

"Hmm, well, lowering property prices is always an attractive solution, in general - although of course I cannot make robust assurances without His Imperial Majesty's consent. We'll have to return to this once He is present. As for natural gas, we would be extremely happy to provide this to you. Our reserves are, incidentally, nearly at capacity, so we can have juices flowing as soon as we sign a document."

The Consul took a sip of water, which, to his pleasant surprise, was far less hard and contained far less taste than Telum river water. "I suspect you possess just the rare earth minerals we could use, Minister!" Strathclyde chuckled, before ruffling his papers with a short "let's see", looking for his files on mineral deposits. "Ah, here we are. Yes, the Empire would be open to a trade here. Gas for minerals, perhaps? Or would a monetary exchange suit you better?"

"We can further offer you our three main export products: bauxite ore -- very useful for building all manner of things, including warplanes, cars, tinfoil -- uranium ore, which, well, you'll know the use of, and weapons." The slight bemusement on the Czech ministers' faces was exactly the response he had intended. "Yes, the Empire is, by Imperial decision, now open to exporting our full range of arms and armaments to the Democratic Republic, should they be needed. Whatever you could think of, chances are we have it. There are also some... less conventional... devices we would be happy to export. I'm sure His Imperial Majesty shall tell you all about them."

Vicarius Wilfred Cocx and EU Councillor (and Deputy Speaker) Nicholas Benfield strolled through the vast corridors of some gigantic EU building in Europolis. On Benfield's insistence, Cocx had come down to Europolis the night before the EU Leaders' Summit was due to start, as both men went way back in Inimician politics and would not pass up on an opportunity to spend an evening rousing the EU Council's bar staff and gossip like the days of old.

Now, though, Benfield had apparently forgotten where the exact entrance to this summit was located. Cocx, who already felt out of place due to his being "only" second in charge in the Empire (Artabanos was currently in Czech Slavia and, in His words, "couldn't be asked to deal" with several of the leaders who were supposed to be present today), followed Benfield through various corridors and around an infinite number of corners, until eventually the welcome area, outside, came into view.

"Well Nicholas, I hope last night didn't do too much to my general appearance", Cocx said, trying to straighten his tie in a faint window reflection. "At least some familiar faces will be here, I guess. You're probably more familiar with some of them than I am at this point."

"You're fine. We've met hundreds if not thousands of foreign politicians together and have only embarrassed ourselves half the time. I know we didn't set up an agenda as we were supposed to have done last night, we instead used our draft papers for a drunken game of Guess Who? - but that shouldn't spoil the fun today. Just go with the flow."

With that, the Vicarius and Councillor stepped outside, where they were meeted by European staff and the other leaders who had already arrived, and who looked in slight bewilderment to find the Inimicians strolling calmly towards them, rather than arriving in some armoured motorcade.