Grand Conference of European Unity Against Terror

[Tulus and Biminis]

Lavinovitch was quite stunned by the behaviour of the Engellexic diplomat. He was incredibly formal, of which there was nothing wrong, but he spoke in a manner that favoured the use of the past tense, which Lavinovitch found to only convolute the discussions. His jab at Karakhstan also amused Lavinovitch. No government present here had more solid intelligence and knowledge on the regime in Boliatur than that of Karakhstan. The Security Intelligence Bureau had dozens of agents and a reliable informant network across the country and knew where to find key actors and how to contact them, should the need ever arise. It was in typical fashion, thought Lavinovitch, for the imperialist Westerner to view the states of Toyou with such haughtiness.

Lavinovitch scribbled a note in German with his fountain pen, folded the paper and told his aide to pass it along to the Danish Minister, Westerveld.

Sir,

I do believe it prudent that you and I spare ourselves a moment for a drink at the bar. I would like to discuss a few things with you and perhaps even convince you to view some things from a different perspective.

-L. T. Lavinovitch​

No matter how drawn out the diplomats of the West could make this conference, Lavinovitch knew that without his government's help, and certainly not without the cooperation of Yujin, their imposing efforts would be resigned to an expensive, elongated and sloppy demise.

 

[Cœurléon]

Tapping his pen and humming to himself, di Monpozat returned to focus as his aide handed a folio with the Cœurlois royal seal. He tapped his microphone and began to speak.

"Ladies and gentlemen, another issue which has been brought to my attention not only effects Boliatur but many other nations represented here today. My office has confirmed an estimated 200 Cœurlois nationals are currently abroad in the republic. Fortunately, these men and women have been contacted and are now being asked to drive to the consulate in Mrysini where they will be protected until a charter flight is arranged. I am sure many of nations here also have dutiful citizens in Boliatur." The count closes the folio and looks at the Karakh representative.

"My government is prepared to support any and all humanitarian efforts to the region. I hope our first agreed upon policy is all such governments to provide such resources before the first artillery shell is dropped."

 

[Thaumantica]

Madame North crossed the centre of the Great Colonial Hall after completing her speech to meet with Viscount Palmerston, offering him every courtesy and kindness before opening her mouth to discuss Cantigian Affairs. "My Lord Palmerston, I personally apologize for the order of which plenipotentiaries were introduced to this affair," the Chancellor said while the first speaker, Gian Lombardo of Potenza, composed himself, "Within the Friendly Confines, we set the tone for our visitors before they even have the chance to compose themselves. Already they are well within our security web, they are sitting in the chairs we have provided to them, and those who are taking a spot of drink are well aware that they are breaking our Prohibition Laws to sup their despicable alcoholic addictions." Veronica North said with a beaming smile.

With that incessant patronage to both her Monarchist and Mormon loyalties, the Cannie Chancellor Veronica North quitely vacated the premises with a mass security detail in tow. Harriet Fauconberg stood up to salute the Chancellor as she left, again silently, to give the Potenzan and following speakers as much respect as Cantigianly possible. The Chief Foreign Officer of the Covenant was fervently against the consumption of alcohol, as she had been her entire life, though tobacco was her own persisting addiction in the prohibition era of the friendly confines. Fauconberg lit a long cigarette, grown and rolled in Perdition, where the Lady Chancellor was from, and enjoyed several long drags while her personal hero Marie-Hélene Sant-Carcierre spoke, and the portly Nicosian boasted his self-importance.

A few too many national representatives had shown their true cards, their true heritage, and confirmed to the Chief Foreign Officer what her father had taught her about other-than-Engellexic men. She was well in to her fourties now, truth be told, yet the same prejudices crept up in her mind every time she saw an Eastern European grovel, or a Western European plead for reason in a situation that demanded fierce action.

Since no one had taken advantage of the centre stage Chancellor North left to them, Harriet Fauconberg stood and assumed the central position, where she felt quite confident any respectable Engellexic man or woman belonged. In the style of her Lady Chancellor, Fauconberg also took up the microphone in her own two hands to better address the full circle of plenipotentiaries.

"Felix Ilchester, this nation's past Chancellor and founder of the Covenant, once orated the following before throngs of Cantigian youth, elderly, rich, and poor: 'So long as I fight, so long as I breathe, these friendly confines, filled by so many Proud Peoples & Patriots flourishing under the True Peace, not a single one shall live the life of a victim to the accost of terror or unlawful subjugation.'" the Chief Foreign Officer quoted, suspecting that few or less in the room had realized that Felix Ilchester was no longer the propaganda fueled figurehead of their Empire Down Under.

"Guests and friends, the people of Boliatur are hopeless victims of an overpowering terror network that not only takes the lives of foreign people, it leeches upon its own women and children by blatantly stealing food and water purification resources from those who are most in need." Harriet said, praying that the news story run by Imperial Review pertaining to that allegation was on the minds of her target audience, which bore down on her from every imaginable direction and beyond.

"Naval components from the Grand Force of this Covenant will be departing in roughly three weeks from now, directing their full might at the coastal regions of Boliatur and the mixed forces that protect it from the very Peoples and Patriots of Cantignia. Now, with that fact established, let me say that we are fully prepared to coordinate both our simple and complex missions with our friends in Yujin, and share the responsibility of ensuring the immediate downfall of the Nodovinya regime. We will merge these operations with the Confederate government of the Eastern States, who clearly have the most tactically sound understanding of this developing conflict."

"I can guarantee that my country will not send the largest force," Harriet said with a smile, staring down the representatives of Danmark, "I can guarantee you it will not contribute the proudest pillars of leadership," she said with a glance at her Engellexic kinsmen, "But I can assure each and every one of you that Cantignia will be there, standing shoulder to shoulder in this fight against global terror, precisely where we will again boldly stand through every ensuing incursion against those who would prey on the innocent."

Harriet Fauconberg allowed herself a short respite, circling the room again with her eyes like the mistaken pioneer. "Speaking along that same vein: Europe's future encounters with terror, I do not tread lightly over the statements of my immediate colleagues who realize that this threat extends past Boliatur and this calendar year. We are a world divided, and we face a foe united to strike terror in the hearts and minds of Patriotic Peoples & Patriots across this seaboard and every municipality of every civilised country in Europe. If someone does not take the initiative, remaining tirelessly vigilant against non-linear combatants across every, our very way of life will be desecrated by sparks of anarchy, and finally absolute chaos as chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons are passed between dealers of death like common liquor and marijuana."

"Vesper is the heart of these friendly confines of the Covenant of Cantignia, and so long as it stands, so long as that heart beats, we will throw our doors open to intelligence agencies and police directorates involved in this lasting unity against terror in Europe. Entities of a racial and ideological multitude will find this city welcoming and accommodating to our services, which range from the discrete to the world encompassing media resources of Europe," Madame Fauconberg finished with a long sigh, "And please allow me this one non-secular statement: that with full respect I believe that a God stands with all of us today, be he Elohim, Yahweh, Buddha, or any other just and peace giving deity. I feel a greater presence with us here today, and that presence is good."

"Long live the Queen's," Harriet Fauconberg said with a strong nod and a tart smile, returning to her seat where a private secretary was waiting to criticize and advise her on how poorly she had done.

 

[Serbovia]

"First, in response to the Belmontien delegate", Defense Minister Svenson replied, "I would like to state that the Confederate government heavily disagrees with the notion that as long as the regime in Boliatur would disawow terrorism against the monarchic states it should be left to its own devices, with no regard to the regional security threat posed by Magleis Nodovinya and his cronies, with no regard to the plight of the Boliaturian people. As said, this is a chance for the international community to set a precedent for the future terrorist captains and warlords of our time, and to show that their transgressions shall not be abided by the international community. And appropriately, we should not abandon this opportunity."

Though it appeared that the more sensible minds were prevailing - the Defense Minister had a very visible smile of satisfaction on his face when listening to proclamations made by the Cantignian and Engellexic delegates - Christian Svenson was becoming increasingly annoyed with the condescending tone of the Belmontian woman. In fact, he made a mental note to recommend to Steinhauser pulling out from the coalition should Carcierre's version of the proclamation somehow gain some international credence. The Foreign Ministry could then leak information to the press that the Eastern States had been in support of more extensive anti-terrorist action but the proposal had been rejected, which in turn would serve as a good boost for President Steinhauser's bid of re-election through the promise of a more proactive take in foreign affairs. Still, Svenson believed that this likely would not be necessary.

"I believe, however, that I am speaking with the full support of the Confederate Congress and the President of the Confederacy when announcing that the government of the Eastern States is in support of the Cantignian and Engellexic observations now made, which concern the nature of the Boliaturian current system in creating the conditions for such an ignoble haven of terror to have risen, and which concern the fact of hard power now being needed to end this haven of terror. And I believe that I can honestly say that the men and women of the Confederate Army will stand shoulder-to-shoulder in such a struggle with other defenders of freedom."

 

[Serenierre]

As Ms. Fauconberg spoke Marie-Hélene fixed her gaze on the woman. The two of them had met a few times over many international summits and bilateral meetings and the feeling of mutual fondness was apparent – an asset in developing their respective nations bilateral ties. But despite that, she couldn't help but wonder, at-least momentarily so, why she had spoken in such open terms considering republican delegates sat there with them in that very room. "The point that you are conveying is something is worth considering – true..." she said, considering each word cautiously, "in this world of today, can we allow another rogue state like Solaren to emerge? Yes, it is ridiculous to say that Boliatur poses the same threat militarily... that we know," she cast a look at the Eastern States' delegate, "but it is the mere notion that a nation can dare to go against the internationally recognized laws and conventions that is dangerous... and with that we must consider... if we don't act now... then when will we?" her contralto voice boomed in the chamber as she asked the question.

"As far as I have seen, I do think that the time to talk is over and to decide is upon us." She took off her spectacles. "The nations of Danmark and Great-Engellex have shown that they intend to go on with their declarations of war – a stance which has just been supported by our host nation. And while they provide a uniform answer to the problem," she looked at the Frescanians and the Eastern States' representatives, "the other side of the argument is simply not forming a coherent response... if diplomatic means are to be utilized then what are the details? What are your opinions on the proposals that have been presented? We cannot sit here endlessly."

She looked down and hastily scribbled notes to her counterparts in Danmark, Cantigny and Great Engellex, each carrying the same message.

Kingdom of Belmont stands firmly behind intentions of forcible removal of Mrysini regime. Stalemate at conference has been communicated to Villesen, final Belmontien decision is being considered. If any queries, we can meet after proceedings.

M-Hélene S.Carciérre

She looked at each delegate as they received her note. She had just about had it with the back and forth taking place at the summit.

 

[Frescania]

Gomez had been glad the Engellexian delegation had brought up the situation in Bantyr, which to many in Fortaleza Real was a primary example of a rogue state. It was also clear that no one listened, as the recent Belmontian asking for an alternative plan was given with disregards to his' previous statement. To Gomez, things were becoming clear, and it was obvious that such large number of nation-states would find it impossible to agree fully on one single course of action.

"I do believe that the Republic's statement have been misread. I have, and so has our government, clearly stated that we shall stand behind any actions decided in this conference. If we believe military action is the right course, my government shall take appropriate steps towards collaborating in such coalition.

As mentioned before, the situation Frescania and Engellex faced in Bantyr shows a primary example of a madman whose sole purpose was the de-stabilization of the North. Although it was out of our traditional area, the Republic took the necessary steps to check such threat so that Frescanians, Engellexians, and the entire European population, could leave in peace."

He had a sip of his water while gathering his thoughts. Gomez was getting irritated with the Belmontians, and he was glad it was Dulwich and Vesper taking the lead, two Monarchist regimes Frescania had a long history of cooperation.

"Lastly, we must fully support the statements by my Engellexian and Cantignian counterparts. As mentioned before, the Republic will stand ready to take any actions we decide here. Any doubts that my government will not participate in the ending of such tyrannical and terrorist administration is an outright lie.

Esteem delegates, never doubt Frescania's conviction to our moral cause. As a true Frescanian statement once said: 'Our Republic, right or wrong. When right, to be kept right; when wrong, to be put right' ".

 

[Tulus and Biminis]

Lavinovitch could not help but role his eyes at the Cantignian woman's mention of a god. Karakhstanis were famously atheist and had trouble keeping their food in their stomachs at the mere mention of a deity. Anyone who believed in such hogwash was automatically viewed as an unintelligent and pathetic human being. But he, as a trained diplomat, kept on his smile.

'Clearly, since no government here intends to even attempt to use diplomacy in this affair, there will be some sort of international coalition of the willing. Karakhstan intends to take charge on all affairs relating to humanitarian relief and will ensure that its relief efforts are unhindered and respected. Meanwhile, however, I do suggest that instead of sending forth your various attack forces to converge on their target all at once, that you organise a central command. In this way any military actions will be coordinated and organised to prevent duplicitous actions, dangerous manoeuvres and competitive assaults.'

He could only imagine a handful of navies arriving off the shores of Boliatur, bombing everything in sight, all the while doing so in such an uncoordinated and juvenile fashion that their ultimate goal would be nigh impossible to achieve amidst the chaos.

'Now, I am not sure where this central command would be located or who would be leading it, but the Republic of Karakhstan Defence Force would need to be involved to make it known where our assets are operating and located so as to prevent collateral damage.'

 

[Thaumantica]

"Mister Lavinovitch, sir - I do believe you mistake your peers for fools and common saps," Harriet Fauconberg scolded in master's tone, "If there is a disease of the liver, a group of doctors does not simply entrust the bladder to cure its neighboring organ of the murderous infection."

"Karakhstan, without a shadow of a doubt, possesses the most intimate knowledge of the terror ridden regime of Boliatur . . Afterall, merely a hop and a skip separates the hungry masses in Boliatur from the jovial moderates of Mister Lavinovitch's oh so important Karakhstani homeland. The time will surely come when we collectively desire your first-hand knowledge of the region, but until then, I ask that you quietly respect the process in which the world confronts this terrible threat of terror."

Madame Fauconberg pointed at the man directly, and bore in to his diplomatic smile with the icy coldness of a Bantyric Winter. "You sit at a crossroads of civilisation Mister Lavinovitch, where we are quite laboriously exhausting the limits of international diplomacy here and now. Indeed, at this very moment, you sit among Danes and Frescanians, you sit among aristocracy and the common born. Therefore, let me inform you with the utmost cordiality: if you do not immediately adjust your tone and language with us here, sir, I will have to calmly ask for our national security staff to safely suspend your presence with all of us here today."

The Chief Foreign Officer then sighed and shrugged at the Karakhstani gentleman, "Find it within yourself to develop some respect for your colleagues, Good Sir" Harriet said before returning to her seat. She did not want to establish any further overarching policy at this time, a task left to the Empire's of Great Engellex and Danmark, though she felt it was important to remind someone that this was quite entirely a national building, belonging to Cantigians, devoid of any law or custom that demanded the presence of anyone other than the associates and allies of the friendly confines.

 

[Great Engellex]

Vesper, Covenant of Cantignia, July 2012

An aide offered Palmerston an alcoholic beverage, but, ever an Old World diplomat, he turned it down. He was listening, as the positions of Europe’s governments unfolded before him. In his grey morning suit, left leg folded over the right, with his silver-tipped cane resting on his lap, Palmerston observed quietly with an embroidered handkerchief held to his thin lips. Will you have a cigar, Sir? The aide tried once again. This time however, Palmerston removed his handkerchief to reveal a smile, that would be most agreeable. He tucked the cloth up his left sleeve and proceeded to prepare his gentlemanly pleasure. I should relax properly if I were not alone in this industrious exercise of the lungs, he joked, especially as, I feel like rather a spy taking down the conversation of this congress within my mind. As he brought the matchstick to his cigar, he turned to the senior aide, Sir Charles Canterbury, and jested that he should advise the others in the conference that smoking together will help put us all at ease. Once he had mastered his fresh habit, in a contained fit of wheezing and coughing, Palmerston leaned forward and tapped the surface of his table several times with the tip of his cane to command the attention of the ministers and plenipotentiaries. He acknowledged their attention with a respectful nod, and proceeded to heave himself upon his two thin and feeble legs, with the great assistance of his ornate cane, then, with a form of body quite reflecting Engellexic breeding, Palmerston moved to occupy the commanding ground.

With him leaning upon his cane, and his cigar held firmly between two fingers, the Second Lord of Aldwych d’Evercy reaffirmed the position of Dulwich, her Excellency, Madame Fauconberg, has spoken with much eloquence, and much passion, and much wisdom. The initiative, he declared, glancing at Fauconberg and refusing the Karakhstani whoring an acknowledgement. Many benches of the Imperial Parliament at Dulwich declare that Great Engellex should commit to driving the Boliaturans into the seas of the Far East. My Queen-Empress believes the Engellexic duty, here, at this critical moment, is to maintain the Order of Europe, and, nor, with that duty, will we take any step that, though, we may obtain for the moment, comparative peace and force prosperity, hazards the presence of that Order in the Far East.

We are now approaching a crisis I quite expected here, though, wanted to avoid, and the Karakhstani minister has raised the agitation, which was already quite sufficiently strong, to the highest pitch. It is very evident that all Powers, and States, here are arranging and preparing for their part in the struggle – what the character of that struggle is to be, whether violent, or one yielding to counsels of moderation and prudence, will depend upon the wisdom of that corner of Toyou. Bringing the cigar to his lips, Palmerston indulged upon more of its intense flavouring, filling much of the air around him with rich smoke. Not satisfied, he choked. Not satisfied with the rape and anarchy of its own society, Mrysini has been decided on attacking every institution, every interest, every class, around Europe that is does not agree with. Before us all, this government of Mrysini has behaved as though it were a guild of thugs under the influence of some deleterious substance; and in so doing, awakened the most intense anger and distrust from the free people of Europe towards this embodiment of all that stands against what we, regardless of our political religions, hold. Anger and distrust, these feelings which, I have seen here, are not unique to one country or one form of government. What a state of things this is when men deny basic provisions to their people for want of power, and, for the same reason, declare, as I hear them declare, that they would not accept a civilised order for Europe. But, Great Engellex shall abstain from a futile ground invasion of Boliatur, that may be desired from this conference. Though, I will speak, there are certain measures to introduce is necessary, and to oppose is disgraceful. The real answer to the Boliatur crisis is not a strategy of permitting our armies to invade, but to seek out the causes of the past great misgovernment and to put an end to a state of things which is the bane of all Europe, and has bought Dulwich condemnation for being first to oppose it.

Mere diplomatic counsel has been quite unproductive of results, with Boliatur, and nothing, it is generally believed, will be of any effect but the insistence, through some measure, of a united European quarter; how can we then expect anything different when, and it will, another straying State decides to plot the destruction of European order? I refer to my earlier, and quite neglected, endeavour for a great European scheme, from this conference, for an immediate establishment of a European Council as an integral part of the crowned labours of this congress. The principle of a European Council would figure more in farther discussions, but limited to the determination of a terrorism free Europe, that will reinforce the declaration of the abolition of state sponsored terrorism that we will take from this conference. It will be quite dangerous to the Powers and States present, that we should all return home, to our respective governments, without bringing back the fruit of permanent abolition and settlement from a glorious participation of this most noble gathering. This, I, stand before you to, insist upon. Great Engellex is most desirous of a permanent conclusion to the dangers of state sponsored terrorism that we see manifest.

But, he began again, filling the air with a cloud of smoke, after all, the real mission of the ministers and plenipotentiaries here, at this present time, is the general assurance of European order as it stands now. Boliatur cannot remain what it is. This conference must find a consensus on the form of an intervention, and agree to this direct mediation, not by landing armies, for that would be only a copy of the intolerable tyranny which we hope to act to end, but by a successful coalition of warships to impose the achievement of a constitutional form with liberties and freedom for political and economic enterprise, whether by the presence of those warships at their shores, or the employment of those warships to bring Mrysini in compliance of the European determination. Great Engellex, as a Power at war with Boliatur, has a difficulty far greater than that of war to encounter in the needed reorganisation of Boliatur, which is the reasoning why I stand here. A truly European effort is needed for this enterprise of freedom.

And, before I should vacate this microphone, he declared, tapping it with his cane, I want an agreement, from you all, on the two positions I have made to you. Anything less will be a true disgrace.

 

[Tulus and Biminis]

Lavinovitch stood up with such rage that his chair fell backwards and his glass hit the floor and shattered.

'How dare you address the second in command of a sovereign country in such a way, Madam!' His voice boomed forward and he considered for a fleeting moment to switch from German to Qarakh, but decided that, if he were to do so, the expletives would not translate so well.

'You are the one, not I, who has been using a condescending tone for the entirety of this conference. As if you and your cronies were masters of the world, you speak of the holders of knowledge on this affair as if they were insignificant pests. I have been nothing but patient and understanding as I learn the thoughts of the others sitting here before us. I have been speaking with diplomatic vocabulary and with an extremely cordial tone despite my disagreement with much of what has been said here today. I merely offered a small suggestion, madam, because what I suggested is an important thing to know and no one, to my knowledge, has even discussed such a thing as coordinating your warmongering efforts. No, instead you people sit around a table boasting whose fleets will be larger and which will arrive at their destinations more quickly! Absolutely absurd.'

He began marching out of the room, an aide staying behind to represent the Republic. He turned around before exiting the hall.

'Forget not that your government invited the members of the international community to attend this conference and openly discuss the sad events that have enshrouded us all in sadness, fear and in your case, hysteria. I will be at the Karakh High Commission until further notice. Do let me know when you are ready to take part in a diplomatic discussion and not this sham of a one-way policy-making street!' He spat out the last sentence, slammed the door shut behind him and walked to his waiting car.

Back inside the aide turned away from the door and realised that all eyes in the hall were now on him. He removed his glasses and put down his pen before calmly addressing the room.

'Ladies and Gentlemen, please allow me to apologise for Junior Minister Lavinovitch's rather boisterous exit. He does indeed have a bit of a temper, but I must say that Madame Fauconberg misunderstood my superior's intent with his choice of words earlier. He remains a diplomat, first and foremost, and was simply pointing out a missing piece of the conversation. No agenda for this meeting has been set, so it should come as no surprise that he felt certain things were not being discusses and he had no idea if there were plans to discuss them. He was not trying to look down upon anyone and, obviously, felt quite the opposite.'

He drank from a glass of water and put his glasses back on, 'I remain here as the Republic of Karakhstan's official representation and I believe that I will, for now, be here to answer any questions or provide advice on matters that we may know best. Otherwise I shall be quite hushed.'

 

[Thaumantica]

"Apology accepted, Herr Minister. You are a truly a treasure to your nation," Madame Fauconberg acknowledged. Hand-servants quietly attended to the broken glass while the new Karakhstani representative spoke, prompting Harriet Fauconberg to order the immediate shut down of the despicable Alcohol & Spirits Table which must have contributed to such unruly behavior. Harriet would not spend another moment of the Conference as an accessory to this violation of the Varinia Prohibition, which applied to virtually every other Cantigian hall within the friendly confines.

"The Grand Covenant of Cantignia binds its power to the agreements laid forth by the Lord Viscount Palmerston," she said, "Consider this Conference Agenda to be as follows: We as a civilised order, united against terror, will commit our naval assets to diplomatic satisfaction. Collectively, our success would be indicated by a drastic change in the way Boliatur conducts itself as a member of our international community."

Madame Fauconberg joined the Viscount at centre stage, permitting a short but direct curtsy towards his lordship. "All of you who would commit to this noble cause, all of you who would join our naval force in ensuring civilisations peaceful determination is met by Mrysini, and all of you who would join our extended council for European harmony - stand now, and indicate your solidarity to this purely human endeavor!"

The Chief Foreign Officer then recalled a poem she had learned at University, so many years ago now, and the author escaped her with painful dismay. 'A pit to hell, but heaven over it' she thought to herself as she looked to the Confederate and Danish representatives to join their stance, 'Seed, Summer, Tomb; Whose doom to whom?' Harriet considered, praying that Republican sensibility for mass consensus would stir Frescania, arguably the first, second, or third world power.

 

[Danmark]

The Christiansborg clique were quite enjoying the toing and froing and frissions of personalities with a alternative mixture of mirth, agreeableness and grating on the nerves. Hr. Westerveld himself was increasingly more receptive to the ideas proposed by his fellow would-be-interventionist nations steeled as they all were by a common muscularity in resolve that was apparently unmatched by some of the other attendants in the Grand Congress who maintained a feebleness and dilly-dallying that continued to irk. As far as the Danes were concerned, of all the thoughts expressed, they were far more willing to entertain the thoughts of their co-combatant nations, such as those proclaimed by Viscount Palmerston. He had encapsulated an essential vein of thought that had increasingly carried much weight in Christiansborg and here amongst the assembled Udenrigsministeriet - a long lasting security apparatus that had teeth. Once more Westerveld, unlike the others who remained seated whilst speaking, arose to make his prognosis.

"I wish to echo the words of my esteemed opposite number, Viscount Palmerston. Our two nations, being neighbours in the 'Occident', as some nowadays refer to it, have increased and greatly developed a very prosperous working relationship and increasing seeing of eye-to-eye on many great affairs of state, this Conference being merely the latest venture. The proposition made here today by himself for a framework not only limited to the specific remits of the affair that has gathered us here today - Boliatur - but as a comprehensive articulation in order to rigourously vouchsafe peace in the unknown realms of the future, is a wise one and one that I am more than willing to countersign and subscribe to. My demand, and I am sure there would be an acceptance of this from Dulwich and many others of you here, is that this organisation must, from the outset, have sufficient clout and have a multiplicity of tools at it disposal - sticks and carrots, if you will - to kow-tow threats to the world order, though I would not subscribe to this if I were not fully confident that this is enshrined in the concept. It is imperative that any such structure is fully backed by all those who have shown their determination in decapitating the Bolituran ability to inflict terror across Europe and I urge you all, those who have demonstrated grand statesmanship and a certain degree of foresight, to come together to thrash out the details of this kernel of justice. Our unprecedented grand efforts must continue to burn brightly for all time, not start as a spark of hope that fizzles into a smoldering ember of disappointment. My nation for one will be muscularly backing this to the hilt and I hope those others of us here", he smiled benignly upon the personages from Altai, Belmont,Øststatener, Eiffelland, Yujin, and last but by no means least upon his hosts, "will do likewise".

Though possessed of a forensic mentality, Westerveld nontheless noted much of what had been said in a series of voluminous notes that acted as a counter against the slight possibility of escape of the minutiae - best to be on the safe side. He leaned down to turn over a page before continuing.

"Regarding Boliatur, my government is due to make a official statement regarding significant military deployments to the east in the next day or so as an addition to the smaller contingent that is currently making its way across the Snieg Ocean in the north. My government cannot and will not tolerate terror directed against itself irrespective of whether the threat is small or not. There is a principle at stake and it for it to be argued otherwise is an approach I cannot countenance - terror is terror, is terror, is terror. It is a very simple concept to grasp. My government and I, here today, may appear to be somewhat belligerent. Indeed, perhaps this is so to some of you. But let it not be forgotten that there is immense visceral popular anger directed at the Mrysini regime by the Great Danish peoples which we have sought to calm and channel in this difficult time. Monarchy is the bedrock of our society towards which there is a visceral loyalty and love. To attack the monarchy is to attack all Danes - and there are a lot of them. This anger and determination to exact a crushing infliction of justice upon those who even dared to attack the descendents of the Storkong is of such a strength that the conscription programme unveiled by the government upon its accession has been boosted by those willing to 'do their bit'. The effects, as the esteemed Yujiner minister so eloquently put it, of the "pebble" of such a small and apparently distant regime have indeed become a "ripple" and it is certainly threatening to become a "tsunami"".

He cleared his throat and looked down on the scribbled note from the now-departed Karakh minister. The pressures and grand drama had clearly taken its toll on the unfortunate Minister Lavinovitch which, even from Westerveld's perspective, was a lamentable turn of events. Nonetheless, it could not be disguised that he did not take too kindly at the manner in which the minister appeared to be trying to make the 'militantly neutral' Karakhstan itself out to be more virtuous, holier-than-thou, in these events and at how insensitive it was to the monarchies of the world, notwithstanding the efforts of those who had demonstrated a clear determination to curtail rogue elements and work in concert. Westerveld had played with his pencil, twisting it between the tips of the forefingers and thumbs of both hands and gritted his teeth as he listened to Lavinovitch harangue, lecture, his own country and effectively pledge to do little more than send humanitarian aid to the desperate but dogged regime to their north even threatening, or so it quite obviously appeared, to try to dictate how humanitarian assistance would be administered, as if it had a given right and as if no one else was equipped. They even claimed to be more concerned than every other nation and that they had undercover operatives there. Fat use they were though as they had failed to uncover any malign intent by the Mrysini regime - either that or they and Karakhstan were acting malignantly themselves by not letting the rest of the world know. He much favoured the Karakhs working with the civilised world than constantly running against the grain, in which it was clearly failing. But he had already come to the strategic decision, and had previously intimated at the fact, that as far as Christiansborg was concerned, it would be dealing with Yujin as the closest major mainland power and no one else at this stage, as it was it that had the greatest force to bear on the continent itself.

Westerveld took up his pencil and wrote back a note, but to the obscure, rather faceless, remaining Karakh who, after the sudden whirlwind departure of his foreign minister, had even left him minus a name-plate. He had wanted to meet Lavinovitch in person but this was neigh on impossible as she had left.

Esteemed representative,

As your minister suggested to me, I am prepared to meet with you but my suggestion, as a nod of respect to our hosts, is that this meeting does not take place at the bar but in the Queen Catherine Sitting Room which I believe is available. I also want to keep it to just a few staff. However, there are certain areas that are strictly off the cards. We are willing to discuss humanitarian efforts and potentially other areas, but economic and military measures will not be discussed.

I hope that this is acceptable to you.

HRW

 

[Serbovia]

The Karakhstani walk-out was met with raised eyebrows by Svenson and Tännhauser. The Confederate Defense Minister noted to himself that at least Lavinovitch had balls, even if his way of conducting himself was not quite contributive to the prospect of finding international agreement in the Boliatur matter.

A more serious issue troubled him, for in spite of the overwhelming international majority in support of action against the Nodovinya junta such an operation would prove far more difficult without Almati's backing. And though not directly Christian Svenson's concern, ramifications of this conference might have an adverse effect upon the bilateral ties with Karakhstan that Freistadt was seeking to deepen. A series of German whispers and nods were exchanged by the two heads of the Confederate delegation in the immediate aftermath of Lavinovitch's explosive exit as the two discussed the need of taking the matter up with the President and Foreign Minister Hauer upon their return to Freistadt. Any hick in foreign relations, Christian Svenson knew, was likely to be seized by the Socialists and the Centrists as a weapon against Steinhauser's administration especially given the emphasis the incumbent Confederate President was placing on his proactive foreign policy in the re-election campaign.

For all intents and purposes, however, it seemed that the conference was finally reaching results. "I've already expressed Freistadt's stance", Svenson said and took a sip from a glass of water in front of him, first looking at Fauconberg and then the others, "I'd like to suggest that with all voices now heard we present an unified statement to the effect of the decisions here and move into putting them into practice. The international community will have our sword."

 

[Frescania]

Gomez put down his glass of water as he thought of the recent walkout by Lavinovitch. While an impressive act, it did not reflect well in the country's diplomatic corp. Yes, pride was crucial for anyone in this job, but losing one's temper was even worse. As the conference reached its final hours, it was time for a final remark.

"The Republic fully supports the belief that all of us stand firm against any terrorist regime. I have mentioned that Frescania is ready to assume a role in this anti-terrorist action, and I will recommend to our government that the Republican Navy play a role not only to end this regime, but to make sure that our beloved ideology is once and for all purified from the maniacs in Mrysini".

Gomez turned to his aide and informed them to get the aircraft ready; he would have to sell a naval task force while the

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was fragile. However, he was hopeful that the interim president, together with Chancellor Carmelas and the rest of High Command, would fully understand the benefits of taking such actions. The reputation of Republicanism was at stake, and Frescania would surely take action to defend its prime gift to the world.

 

[Natal]

Pavlichenko looked at Lavinovitch as he left and then turned his eyes to Gomez as the talked.

"We will stand by our friends, the Frescanians in this and the National Fleet will join in the fight against terrorism. But I again stress on the fact that we must make the people in Boliatur fight alongside our soldiers. We must show them that the regime in Mrysini is a criminal one and that a real democratic republic is that will help them live in a safe state. In conclusion I say that Altai will support our friends from the HPP and our Danish allies and will join any action which will be organized by this council."

 

[Rheinbund]

Minister Kögler looked at the events. He was irritated by the clouds of smoke produced by the Engellexic representant. He himself quitted smoking 20 years ago. He was amused about the way the Cantignian minister closed the table with alcohol. He considered a complete ban on alcohol too harsh and enjoyed a good glass of wine, but serving alcohol at such a crucial conference was something he would never do. First duty, then alcohol — that was the Eiffellandian way.

"A a fresh observer of the Hymiar Partnership for Peace, we will cooperate with any action deemed needed by this council," Kögler said.

 

[Thaumantica]

The Cantigian* Foreign Officer indicated her graditude to the international community by glaring a wide and white toothed smile to her allies and associates surrounding her in every direction, "Fantastic, this is truly a pure moment of unity for Europe . ." Madame Fauconberg said warmly, "The Grand Covenant of Cantignia would like to thank each and every one of you for attending this Conference of European Unity Against Terror, and casting your nation's power and and nobility intentively in favor of peaceful civilisation."

Harriet pointed to the door, which had served as their alphabetical entrance, and indicated verbally that they were free to go or continue private discussion at their leisure. "I invite those of you who stood with the Lord Viscount and I to join us in the 'Lord Caroll Lobby', where an assorted assembly of media and press syndicates await an announcement from various international officials," Madame Fauconberg said, leading her aides out the door in the direction of the Caroll Lobby.

Naturally, a wide array of Can-Engellexic journalists comprised the lingering mass; the Dulwich Evening Dispatch, the Colonial Magazine, and The Letter jockeying for the region and the world's latest scoop. Madame Fauconberg allowed her security guards and immediate aides to flank her closely, and beyond that a coterie of foreigin officials from Great Engellex, Danmark, Frescania, and the Eastern States waited in the wings to make their own statements to national and international news broadcasters.

Eyeing the central camera of five, Harriet motioned for the domestic and international press to take their seats, "We have prepared a statement, ladies and gentlemen, please take notice!". Barney Johnstone, the Foreign Officer's top-aide, slipped a text into Harriet's view on the designated podium. Madame Fauconberg read the first lines, internalized them, and began when she felt she understood the logic and emotion that she needed to express:

"First and foremost, I ask for the world to join me in a moment of silence for the victims of terror . . ." Harriet said, bowing her head in legitimate prayer to a Mormon Father, in the name of a Mormon Christ only a minority in Europe recognized. "Next, with full understanding of what these decisive declarations mean: a united coalition of European governments have commited their naval capabilities to ensuring a dramatic and orderly change is made in the territory we now know as Boliatur."

"Our united effort should not be perceived as singular, or dependent only on the destruction of the Radical Republic of Boliatur," Cantignia's Chief Foreign Officer orated, "We have deliberated with an overwhelming consensus that conferences and meetings such as this, made up of diverse views and backgrounds, are absolutely required to confront terror and the issues which challenge contemporary governments."

She continued to explain how other foreign officials had prepared statements, and that several meetings and discussions would break off after the conference. The press launched from their seats en masse as Harriet vacated the podium, hoping to squeeze another fact, a gaffe perhaps, out of the officials standing wide eyes and busy tailed before them.

OOC: That's right - Cantigian, not Cantignian. Get the N-out. With that said, this thread is closed. If you would like to prepare a direct statement to the press, then you could do it here if you need to, but quoting it in a newspost would be preferred so we have an official cessation of this conference.