Prime Minister Rodolf Fortuin pulled up with the Akarusan motorcade, mumbling to himself about the delay. It had been a long trip riddled with delays in every stage of the journey. He had caught one of his aides whisphering about "bad omens" during the ride, though he refused to believe such superstitions. It had been too long since Akarus had strengthened ties with its eastern neighbour. With unrest in virtually every part of Akarus it was almost relaxing to be abroad for a change.
Flanked by his Minister of Foreign Jos Arbeid and the nation's Lieutenant-Governors they approached they approached the palace. Eager to join the rest of the representatives he had the palace guard rush them to the Malachite room.
"On behalf of His Majesty Charles IV, King of the Akarus and the Kapels, King of Andler, etc. the Federated Kingdom of Akarus thanks you for this invitation, and extends to your nations a wish of peace and prosperity. His Majesty sends his personal regards to the heads of state gathered here today, and regrets that he was unable to attend this meeting. I am Rodolf Fortuin, Prime Minister of the Akarus Parliament. I greet you all as lead representative of Akarus here today."
It was a traditional but simple prepared message, ordered by the King himself. Regardless of his opinions, Rodolf could hardly contradict it.