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Post by Austerain on Jan 29, 2017 23:14:58 GMT
"Thank you Mr. President," Cooper says, "That concludes Hyacinth's University's town hall with Grand Chancellor Asher and President Edwards. Thank you all for participating and watching, I'll be the host tomorrow for the University of Pinth's town hall. Good night."
The audience applauds as the camera lights black out off air. The host and the Dean shake the two gentlemen's hands and thank them. As they leave the hall, they shake hands and take selfies with members of the audience on their way out.
Once leaving the hall, they climb into the limousine of the motorcade and depart for the Governor's Mansion. As they're traveling on the highway on the southbound bypass towards south Sardinia to Anglesea Park, where the mansion is located, the Chancellor's aide calls him on the phone. As he listens, he appears slightly surprised and disturbed. He hangs up after a few minutes and says,
"That was one of my aides back in Austraton. The Palace of Auster is surrounded my protesters, forcing everyone inside to become trapped and preventing anyone outside from entering. They're refusing to let anyone out or leave until we return. My Secretaries are urging me to come back as soon as possible. There are also protests in other cities around the country as well. People are angry, Ted, but I think we should still go to Pinth. Though I have to warn you, there are death threats. What do you think?"
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Jan 29, 2017 23:30:34 GMT
"I agree that we should still go to Pinth, Mr. Chancellor. We have to show strength." Ted says with a bit of a sigh.
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Post by Austerain on Jan 29, 2017 23:40:50 GMT
"Good" he smiles, "Any news from your country or on Governor Polacco?"
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Jan 30, 2017 0:40:49 GMT
"Well nothing exciting. The Senate finally passed my intelligence reform bill God knows how long after the House passed it. The proceeded to remove the intelligence chiefs finally as well effectively abolishing the 8 intelligence agencies into 1 agency.
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Post by Austerain on Jan 30, 2017 1:02:14 GMT
"That's great to hear, I expect that there will be more accountability. Our own National Intelligence Service (NIS) is subject to internal accountability by the Defense Department's Intelligence Commission Board."
The motorcade turns to the exit marked ANGLESEA PARK- 2 MILES. A couple minutes later, they're driving through a hilly wooded park, rising in elevation. Finally they pass through wrought iron gates and pull up to the Governor's Mansion. The building is a Georgian style with red and white brick, surrounded by freshly mown green lawns and apple trees. Behind the main house is where a balcony is perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. The motorcade goes around the front fountain and stops at the front doors, where Governor McCord is waiting. As the doors of the limousine open, McCord approaches to greet the gentlemen.
Asher steps down of the limousine and shakes McCord's hand saying, "Good to be here. I see you had the rotten apples on the ground around those trees picked up this time! I hope you have apple pie prepared for dinner, the President and I are famished!"
McCord nods and says, "Of course, Mr. Chancellor. Dinner is waiting for us when we go in."
He approaches Edwards as he steps out of the limousine as well.
"Mr. President. Welcome to the Hyacinth Governor's Mansion, locally known as Anglesea Park after the park surrounding it. Would you like a tour before dinner or would you rather go ahead for all of us to have dinner and retire for the night?"
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Jan 31, 2017 2:42:29 GMT
Edwards smiles "While this is quite the mansion I am quite tired and hungry and feel it best if we just have dinner then retire for the night. Is that alright?"
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Post by Austerain on Jan 31, 2017 4:02:37 GMT
"More than alright, Mr. President, I was hoping you would say that." McCord says with a wink. "On we go."
Governor McCord leads them into the mansion, first entering the foyer with a grand white staircase on the right meandering upward, with iron bannisters and railings. McCord leads them to a room right on the left and opens the oak doors to the dining room. It was a simple dining room. A long mahogany dining table with mahogany chairs with dark green cushioning, a crystal chandelier hanging in the center of the room, a China cabinet behind the chair at the head of the table, and dark green curtains cascading the sides of the floor to ceiling French windows with streams of sunlight trickling in. The center of the table is set up with lobster, salads, soda, scotch, wine, beer, little roasted potatoes, collard greens, watermelon, and tiramisu.
Governor McCord sits at the end head of the table as the Chancellor, President, and Secretary Cox sit on either side. A butler pours McCord his wine and Asher his beer. The butler then asks, "Mr. President, what can I pour for you? Mr. Secretary?"
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Feb 3, 2017 17:37:39 GMT
Both the President and Secretary ask for a glass of wine. "Quite a nice place you have here, Governor." Edwards says as he looks around the dining room.
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Post by Austerain on Feb 4, 2017 3:17:20 GMT
The Butler pours red wine for the President and Secretary.
McCord sighs with interest, "Thank you, Mr. President. It has been the home of this province's governors since the 1800s. In fact, the first Chancellor Edward Worcestor stayed here under the hospitality of a wealthy land owner of Anglesea Park, while he presided over the 2nd Constitutional Convention to pass our 1790 Constitutional Accord that protected civil rights and liberties of the people before the People's Revolution against the Brother Kings. So much history within these old walls, Mr. President."
The gentlemen begin to set up their plates to eat. Asher asked Cox to pass the lobster cracker to break a shell.
"So," McCord says, "Tell me about your residence, President Edwards. From the pictures I've seen, New Ireland and Wales is beautiful."
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Feb 4, 2017 3:48:36 GMT
"History is most interesting. It's weird to think that 100 years ago in New Ireland and Wales the military overthrew the government. Loved teaching history to college students." Edwards says with a smile.
"The residence of the President, well the official one I should say, is Áras an Uachtaráin which literally translates into House of the President. It was built in the 1750's as the seat of the King of Dublin, before unification. When the United Kingdom of Ireland was formed in 1813 the Irish Monarch sat there and expanded the palace to it's current 95 rooms. When the monarchy fell in the 1860's the new Chancellery abandoned it. Though Chancellor Maguire moved back into it in 1911, which was the last time it was renovated. So it's beautiful but needs a lot of work done so I tend to stay in apartments at Government Buildings. I'd loved to get it renovated though. It overlooks Phoenix Park and is truly a symbol of history." Edwards says. "Sorry if that sounded like a history lesson. The teacher in me tends to come out at times like that."
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Post by Austerain on Feb 4, 2017 4:31:50 GMT
"A truly fascinating and rich history, Mr. President," McCord smiles, "Buildings like these are living monuments to our nations' heritages and the history that ensued. If the Chancellor ever sends a Congressional delegation anytime soon..." He looks at Asher, who does a side eye as he plops a little potato in his mouth, "..Perhaps you can give me the tour."
The gentlemen continue small talk while eating until they finish over a course of 30 minutes.
Asher says, "Splendid supper, McCord, send my compliments to your chef. Shall we call it a night?"
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Feb 4, 2017 6:01:52 GMT
"I would be more than happy to give you...and others a tour." Edwards says and winks at the Chancellor.
"Quite the supper indeed. Send my compliments as well. I believe we should call it a night. Quite the day we've had."
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Post by Austerain on Feb 4, 2017 6:21:09 GMT
Asher winks back, and looks back at McCord with amusement.
"I agree, Ted. McCord, I believe I'm in the same room as the last time I visited?"
McCord nods.
"Good" Asher says, "Good night, everybody. Great day for all of us, much more in the morning."
Asher leaves the room and heads to his room upstairs. McCord looks back at the President and the Secretary, "If you both will follow me to your rooms. You'll both find your things in your rooms."
McCord leads them to the second floor and opens the two front doors across from each other. The President's on the left and the Secretary's to the right.
"Sleep well, Mr. President, Mr. Secretary. If there's anything you need, there is a live-in Butler who will attend to your every need. Good night." He shakes their hands and walks down the hall around the corner to his own bedroom. They all go to sleep, awaiting for another day to dawn.
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Feb 4, 2017 6:47:54 GMT
"Thank you, Governor. Good night." Edwards says before shutting the door and taking out his phone to get updates from New Ireland and Wales. "Oh joy, the NCP has elected Benjamin FitzGerald as their Chairman. He'll do fantastic." Edwards says in a mocking childish tone before throwing the phone on the bedside table and falling into bed.
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Post by Austerain on Feb 4, 2017 7:00:52 GMT
The next morning, the Chancellor and the Governor are awake bright and early. As they await for Edwards and Cox to come down, they're in deep conversation as they're drinking coffee.
McCord: "Have you heard about FitzGerald in New Ireland and Wales?"
Asher: "I know. That buffoon was just elected as Chairman of Edwards' opposition, the NCP. I was afraid this might happen."
McCord: "What's his deal? You familiar with him?"
Asher: "Very. When I was Chairman of the National Reserve Bank under the Puccini Chancellery, his company was notorious for trying to bypass financial regulations here to speculate derivatives without limit, and defrauding investors here. I had to get the Chancellor himself involved to get a congressional resolution passed barring Global Investment Bank from doing any business in Austerain. FitzGerald is a stubborn and dangerous man."
McCord: "Good God. Do you think he could succeed?"
Asher: "He could. I don't like to think about what could happen if he takes over as President of NIW. Our trade deal could be jeopardized. Versace won't like this at all. These populist movements don't happen often, but when they start, they metastasize quickly like a cancer."
McCord: "What will you do?"
Asher: "Should Fitz take power from Edwards, I'm afraid we will have to cut ties if that new government has different interests than we do."
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Feb 4, 2017 7:10:03 GMT
While the Chancellor and Governor have their coffee Edwards and Cox walk down as they talks
Cox: "Ted, I don't think we have much to worry about. Your approval ratings are much higher than his."
Edwards: "That's the problem this man hates me and will use anything bad that happens will be used like hell against me."
Cox: "Well still, he won't beat you in 4 years. Too much work."
Edwards: "Maybe, maybe not. Populism strikes a ton with the best of people. Playing on fears is much more effective than talking about good. Gets people angry."
Cox: "What's his problem with you?"
Edwards: "As Governor of Leinster I constantly fought against his bank and arrested one of his top deputies. We just need to keep an eye on him and start planning to defeat him in 4 years, now."
Edwards walks in and says hello to the Chancellor and Governor.
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Post by Austerain on Feb 4, 2017 7:18:41 GMT
McCord cont: "Should we bring this up to Edwards?"
Asher: "Probably not. He's probably worried about it as it is, he doesn't need to worry about the repercussions right now. He's probably already planning ahead for his next move."
McCord: "Are you su-?"
Asher: "Yes, now shh, they're coming."
They hear footsteps coming from the stairs, and Edwards says hello.
Asher half-smiles, "Good morning, President Edwards, how did you sleep? Another big day ahead." McCord looks at Edwards with a smile, but his eyes have a look of pity.
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Feb 4, 2017 7:22:36 GMT
"Oh I didn't sleep well at all to be frankly honest. The opposition has decided to just go radical and throw the person who opposes me the most up as their leader. Of all the banks I had to fight in court as Governor it had to be his that threw such a hissy fit. Now I'm worried about 4 years from now. No room to mess up." Edwards says with a sigh "But enough of that. How did you sleep? What all is on the schedule for the day?"
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Post by Austerain on Feb 4, 2017 19:19:45 GMT
McCord says, "Yes, we were just talking about it. It's all over the news and social media this morning. The Chancellor has a history dealing with him as well."
Asher grimaces, "Yes, while I was Chairman of the National Reserve Bank, I worked to bar Ireland Global Investment Bank and tightened financial regulations because of banks and businessmen like him. He was a major reason why I could never convince the Grand Chancellor back then to open trade with foreign countries, the fear of foreign businessmen and far right wing people influencing our own people and system. The Conservative Royalist Party (Polacco's former party) has endorsed him this morning. I've released a statement from the Palace of Auster and my official Twitter condemning his rhetoric and expressing my concern. Bad business, Ted. The far right populists are becoming popular in your country. Any idea why?"
Asher's assistant hands Edwards and Cox the schedule.
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Feb 4, 2017 19:32:41 GMT
"It's truly horrifying. I could never convince President Frank, not the last one but the one before him, to combat the bank. They've donated quite a bit of money to the NCP or whatever it is they call themselves now. I couldn't tell you why they are on the rise. I guess it's the fact that the right was horribly beat in the election they are starting to adopt a lot of populist rhetoric. For now it's not very popular but it is something that needs to be combated." Edwards says while he looks over the schedule.
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Post by Austerain on Feb 4, 2017 21:39:33 GMT
Asher sighs and says, "I'm expecting the press will ask about this development in our press conference today, so be prepared. Most of these populist groups rise because there are groups of people that feel left behind from the economy or by the government. I'd look into that, Ted. It was the same way in the Province of Auradon once, which is why Polacco was elected to Congress from a district there."
Asher's phone pings three times with texts.
"I'm getting word from our DNI that the threat level in Pinth has risen. My Vice Chancellor is urging us to return to Austraton already, but I'd rather we finish the trip instead of disappointing the students at my Alma Mater. Also the Austerain Security Council is ordering a classified investigation into Mr. FitzGerald and Governor Polacco. We have eyes on them, and apparently they've been meeting in a pub."
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Feb 4, 2017 22:43:39 GMT
"Well I'm prepared for the press. If these people feel left behind it's because of the right-wing so I'm not sure why they would flock to the right. Luckily for now it's centered in Polacco's province." Edwards says with a straight face
"Well let's do what you think is best but let's be cautious. Don't need anything happening. I've long since been investigating and keeping an eye on Polacco and last night we've started doing the same with FitzGerald. They are dangerous people who should be kept away from power.Now that they've formed one party we need to be extra cautious."
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Post by Austerain on Feb 4, 2017 23:05:41 GMT
"I don't think we have to worry about anything. Vice Chancellor Versace ordered for more security on standby when we arrive, so we should be safe from any harm. As for Polacco and FitzGerald, they're probably planning their next move together on the national scale so I hope your people are vigilant. I'd start reminding people about your successes."
Asher's assistant gets a call on her phone and she looks up and says, "Mr. Chancellor sir, they're ready for us to leave."
Asher and McCord stand up and put their overcoats and scarves on, since the sea breeze was particularly this morning. As they step out to the front on the way to the limousine, McCord shakes the Chancellor's hand, then the President and Secretary.
"Mr. Secretary, Mr. President, it was a pleasure to host you here. I'm hoping to see great things between our two countries. Maybe after the next election, I'll see you both very soon!" He winks at them.
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Feb 7, 2017 22:21:57 GMT
The President shakes the Governor's hand "Thank you for letting us stay here. Perhaps we will be seeing you soon." Edwards says with a wide smile before he heads towards the limousine.
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Post by Austerain on Feb 7, 2017 23:00:40 GMT
The gentlemen walk to the motorcade, climb into the limousine, and depart. As they get on the highway, Asher's phone pings several times and he pauses to read.
"Mr. President," he says noticably bothered, "It looks like the protests have become violent. Several assailants breached the Palace of Auster, vandalized an office, and assaulted several members of Congress and staff- all right wing protesters. The complex is surrounded by protesters again, and the Speaker of the House of Governors is calling it a siege. Armed police and military dispatched.. blah blah.. several clashes between left and right wing factions of protests. This isn't good. Protests with flag burnings have been happening back in your nation too"
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Feb 9, 2017 3:11:59 GMT
"Oh perfect. I love it when people in New Ireland and Wales overreact. Though it's not a dramatic overreaction. I'll have to keep an eye on the protests. Word is that the NPA is forming another protest as well so I'm hoping these two groups don't crash. I'd hate to call in the Garda Síochána to break up protests. That just wouldn't look good." Edwards says without looking up from his briefing book
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Post by Austerain on Feb 9, 2017 3:45:09 GMT
"A difficult position to be in" Asher says. A few minutes later, the motorcade finally arrives at the airport runway, the engines of the plane already running. The President and Chancellor walk up the steps together with Secretary Cox and staffers following. When they reach the top just before entering, they wave to the crowds and cameras. On the other side from where they came in, they could glimpse a small group of protesters with signs chanting "GO AWAY" behind the fence.
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Feb 10, 2017 3:37:55 GMT
As the motorcade arrives at the airport the President gets ready to get out of the limousine and step onto the plane for the last leg of the state visit to Austerain. As he boards the plane he turns around and waves. "Let's do this." Edwards says to the Chancellor.
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Post by Austerain on Feb 11, 2017 0:38:10 GMT
After waving to the crowds, they walk into the plane and take their seats as the cabin doors close. A familiar voice cracks from the intercom.
"Passengers, this is your pilot Colonol Davison speaking. I hope you enjoyed Sardinia. We will be flying from Sardinia Municipal Airport to Pinth Regional Airport. Estimated flight time is 30 minutes. We expect clear skies with slight turbulence from the southeast. Buckle up and enjoy the ride."
The airplane speeds down the runway and takes off, leaving Sardinia in its wake. Down below, rolling pastures and fields of wheat and corn blanketed the landscape, along with the forests and villages that were dotted around them.
An aide hands Asher his briefing book, who takes it and puts his reading glasses on. After the aircraft reaches height, Aileen comes in with the refreshments that were the same as from their ride to Sardinia. Asher was given his Earl Grey hot tea and blueberry-strawberry scone, Cox is given a small glass of Irish whiskey, and Edwards is given his Irish cream and blueberry scone. After giving them their refreshments, she nods and smiles, then heads back to the attendants' section.
Asher shakes his head and rubs his temples as he reads his briefings.
20 minutes later, the pilot's voice emits from the intercom again. "This is Colonol Davison. We have now entered the Province of Worcestor and we will be landing in 10 minutes. If you look out the windows, you'll be able to see the Andorian Mountain Range in the distance as we follow along the mighty Tiberus River, the longest river in Austerain that flows from the springs of Mount Sapri all the way northeast flowing through the city of Danford in Romana's river delta."
From the windows, the high mountains can be seen in the horizon through the misty clouds, the base blanketed by deciduous forests and the peaks blanked by snow and dark clouds. Directly below, a river wider than the Mississippi cut through the green landscape like a crevice between two pillows, its blue waters reflecting from the skies. Every few miles, there were beautiful fishing villages along its banks with surrounding windmills.
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Post by New Ireland and Wales on Feb 11, 2017 3:02:02 GMT
When the plane takes off Edwards continues to read his briefing book marking with a pen as he goes along. When Aileen comes with the scone and cream he smiles and thanks her as he closes his briefing book with a sigh.
He looks out the window as they fly over the beautiful landscape towards their destination.
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