US State Visit

[Jamie]

UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND
Security Classification: TOP SECRET

With just under a week until the planned state visit of the US President into the United Kingdom, preparations had already begun to ensure everything was in place as required. The visit begins with the arrival at RAF Brize Norton; home of No. II Squadron RAF Regiment, with three companies operational on the day. Their duties would consist of armed patrols around the perimeter fencing, manning security booths and investigating potential breaches. This was their usual role but the stakes much higher given the guest they were due to receive. For now, however, it was about briefings and drills. They'd work alongside other personnel within the RAF who operate from Brize Norton and potentially more importantly, the 20th Operational Fire Service. For the next few days, regular inspections, exercises and briefings were to take place to cover the entire event. The same process was also taking place at RAF Coningsby, home of the Typhoon. Although the Typhoons remained on Quick Reaction Alert duties, a presidential visit was planned which prompted the need for security to be in top condition.

Daily security meetings were taking place in the build up to the event that consisted of the chiefs of the Royal Air Force, MI5, local police services from the respective destinations and senior cabinet officials. In agreement, they'd be additional police officers deployed across the assigned destinations which will include significant numbers of armed response personnel available to respond in the event of any problems. Across The Mall and around Buckingham Palace, US Flags begun to get erected in preparation and the Coldstream Guards begun their drills to ensure they were ready for the welcome ceremony in which they'd be the guard on duty. MI5 were paying special attention to any developments within their networks in London and other areas of the UK to aim to detect and deter any risks in conjunction with the Met Police.

Ahead of the 1st February, a memo was privately sent to the US Government to advise that any equipment, vehicles, etc, can be deployed to RAF Brize Norton at their convenience. Odinson

 

[Odinson]

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Private​

The Special Relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom is the most important alliance in the Anglosphere, and the most important geopolitical relationship between the United States and any other country in the world. Both Presidents Clinton and Gore enjoyed a strong and healthy relationship with the British Government which has proved to not just be an important political and economic alliance, but a strategic military one for both the United States and the United Kingdom. The only government on Earth that the United States trusts, without hesitation or worry of deceit, is the British Government. No matter where Americans are, or what kind of danger they are in, they know that their next best bet for safety and sanctuary is a British Embassy or representatives of Her Majesty's Government - and this is reciprocated to British Subjects.

President Gore had a closer personal relationship with former Prime Minister Andrew Evans than he has had with any other national leader - perhaps that is why their administrations worked so well together. Now President Gore, who is on his final twelve months of office, is travelling to the United Kingdom to keep the foundation of the Special Relationship solid and to set up the next President for success. While there is so much in the world to be hopeless about, the British still offer hope to the American government that the United States can have allies and friends outside of North America and that the Old World is still worth preserving and protecting.

Air Force One arrived at RAF Brize Norton at approximately 9:00 AM on the designated day. Once Air Force One taxied in place and the staircase was put in place next to the aircraft, individuals began deplaning. Secret Service and military officials departed first, followed by members of the press and other civilians, and then the first family. Finally, the Secretary of Defense, the Deputy Secretary of State, and then the President himself would come out onto the staircase and deplane onto the tarmac. The President would briefly meet with Secret Service to discuss the security strategy for today, as well as how the President would be transported. He was reminded that the formal British welcome would be at Buckingham Palace. The President boarded Marine One, along with the First Family, while the Deputy Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense took Marine Two to Buckingham Palace. They would land at the designated location and time, according to the British after the helicopters were fueled and the preflight checks were done. Close coordination was done with the RAF and other British military and security officials to ensure that the trip from RAF Brize Norton to Buckingham Palace went without incident.​

Jamie​

 

[Jamie]

RAF Brize Norton was rather enthusiastic to receive their guest, all staff formally dressed and security on high alert with spectators trying to get their glimpse of Air Force Ones arrival. From the sky, it would be quite easy to note how busy of an airbase Brize was. It remained the home of all the heavy aircraft so the lineup visible on approach ranged from C-130J-30s, C-17 Globemasters and the Lockheed Martin TriStar refuellers. From the arrival into Brize, a quick transition to Marine One took place to minimize time on the ground and allow the President a speedy departure to meet the formal welcome at Buckingham Palace. A designated landing spot confirmed prior to arrival which would be held in the gardens.

Once the helicopter was in sight, the President would set eyes onto the waiting troops from the Grenadier Guards. In total, around 600 soldiers from 1 GREN GDS Battalion, organised by company and dressed in formal attire. The iconic bearskins in all their glory. A large line between the doors of Buckingham Palace and the designated landing spot remained available, to which HM The Queen would wait until the landing of the helicopter as a precaution before stepping out of the Palace to meet the President, his family and following Secretaries. Timings immaculate as always, the moment the President was due to step out of the helicopter, the roaring engines of the Red Arrows Aerobatic Team soared overhead. Red, White and Blue smoke trails behind as they signified the opening of the state visit. Once the noise of the engines had passed and the President in close proximity, the Queen spoke with a soft smile "Good Morning, it's a pleasure to see you. How was the flight?" she asked with genuiness. Only once she received a response, would she carry on speaking and invite the US President to inspect the Royal Guards that stood in tight formation behind her.

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Odinson

 

[Odinson]

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Private​

Marine One, Two, and Three flew from RAF Brize Norton to London where they carefully followed the planned flightpath and directions from the RAF to arrive safely at Buckingham Palace. Marine One landed in the foreground, in its designated location. After approximately thirty seconds, the blades to the helicopter slowed down as the engines lowered their roar and eventually turned off. The two sets of stairs from the helicopter were lowered. A Marine in full dress uniform stepped out and stood at attention at the foot of the steps. Some of the President's closest advisors came out first, followed by some Secret Service. Next, the President's family came out: Mary Elizabeth "Tipper" Gore (his wife) and their four children. A couple more Secret Service agents stepped out, followed by President Gore.

Gore was dressed in a black suit, white shirt, and a dark, navy blue tie. On the lapel of his suit was a small American flag lapel pen with a small gold lining around it. His hair was neatly combed and his black shoes had been freshly shined. The President returned a sharp salute to the Marine at the bottom of the staircase just as the Red Arrows passed overhead. He looked up for a few moments and silently pondered to himself why the Blue Angels didn't use different colors of smoke for formal occasions - it looked really nice.

He then stepped forward to where he met the Queen. "It was as wonderful as flights can be," President Gore said in response. "It's very nice to see you again, Your Majesty."

American Presidents had a tendency to break unknown royal protocols when visiting the United Kingdom, but so far he had managed to do quite well during his presidency (as far as he knew) and he was determined to make sure that his last official visit to the United Kingdom would not be marred by a small mishap like that. The President walked alongside the Queen, making sure to not leave her behind as they inspected the Royal Guards. Al thought about if the founding fathers ever imagined that the 43rd President of the United States - or any President - would be inspecting an honor guard of redcoats with the monarch. It was surreal to think that while the United Kingdom had a solid history that went back to the Romans, and a mythical one that existed before then, Americans had built their entire identity so far on just 384 years of history.

"Those uniforms are unforgettable," the President remarked admirably as they walked past the assembled men.​

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

Sounds of the three helicopters caused enough noise throughout the streets to garner much attention, tourists and residents alike looking up between the high-rising buildings to the sight of the US helicopters flying overhead. Their approach to Buckingham Palace gave a sight to The Mall, covered in UK and US flags side by side before their safe landing onto the lawn where the Red Arrows made their debut. The Queen passed a gentle nod in response to Gores response to her before the pair made their walk in front of the troops; guided by Her Majesty who allowed the President time to inspect a couple of rows. "They were suggestions, some time ago, to have some new uniforms for the guards. I shut that down quickly." she chuckled, indicating her own fondness for the historical uniforms. Each soldier they passed presented a crisp attire, their posture solid and a credit to the United Kingdom.

During that a time, a courtier approached the Presidents Advisors and Family and introduced himself. Although they were not part of the inspection, he was there to answer any questions and generally give a bit of a story to the significance of the inspection, some facts about the traditional uniforms and generally to entertain the guests throughout. He'd also highlighted himself as the point of contact if they needed anything during their stay and once the inspection was complete, he would show them to their rooms.

As the pair made their way to the end of the final line where the inspection of the guard would end, and despite been fully away of the itinerary, she wanted to vocalize her invitation for the afternoon "I shall have you and your family checked into the guest accommodation here and once you are settled, perhaps you could join me for a walk through St Jame's Park?" she asked, more as a gesture of her interest rather than it just been on a schedule. Once concluded, the President would be introduced to the courtier who awaited by his family and providing they were all ready, he'd be sure to provide them a tour around the Palace before directing the advisors and President with his family to their rooms. Should that happen, it would allow the Queen to go for a tea and to get herself ready for the afternoon walk. Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private​

"A walk through Saint James's Park would be wonderful, ma'am. I will be looking forward to it," he said, genuinely. President Gore and his family, as well as some of his highest-ranking advisors, enjoyed the tour through the Palace. One of his favorite things to do on slow days at the White House was to crash tour groups and meet a handful of average Americans who had to wait hours and hours to make it through security. He imagined that the royals probably never did that, so he kept that thought to himself.

The President and the First Family checked into their accommodations in the old and ornate palace. Some time went by as the Gore family unpacked their clothes and made use of some of the closets and storage space in the rooms. Unless some other arrangements had been made, the President would await word that the Queen was ready for the walk through St. James's park. Once word came through to the Secret Service that the Queen was ready, two of the protective officers in their dark suits would escort the President to the meeting place with the Queen.

The use of walks in green places was a criminally underutilized diplomatic tactic, and very underrated. Drab meeting rooms with crinkly old men who couldn't walk 500 feet let alone half a mile was getting old for the President who had been doing it for the better part of two presidential terms now. He finally was able to understand why the Vice President valued his lighthouse in Maine so much. The President was still dressed as before. Since he had been shot, he still gets some occasional back pain but he is, other than that, healthy. He brought a black umbrella with him which could double as a walking cane just in case he needed it. Two Secret Service agents would follow in the distance to give the President and the Queen plenty of room to be able to talk in private.

Jamie
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[Jamie]

"Delightful" responded the Queen who at this point, departed ways with the President who had the opportunity for a tour and his introduction to the accommodation for the duration of his and his families stay. Around an hour later, ample time for the President to unpack, there were a couple knocks on the door, a courtier on the opposing side ready to speak. If the door was opened, a formally dressed man stood there at attention "Sir, the Queen is ready for your walk through Saint James's Park if you are ready. I can take you to Her Majesty."

Failing to be ready, the Courtier would simply wait until the time came for him to escort the President to another part of the palace where the Queen stood. Dressed in a yellow, floral dress, she stood patiently. Accustomed to President Gore been punctual, she'd certainly be surprised if she was waiting long before the pair could enter an awaiting vehicle to cross from Buckingham Palace to the park itself. Despite it only been a couple minute walk, the security concerns prompted the need to be driven across. Something the Queen evidently opposed and was quick to point this out to the visiting President.

Earlier, once confirmed that the pair would walk the park, arrangements had begun to be made. By this point, much of the park was closed and gates shut for security reasons. Members of the Diplomatic Protection Group patrolled the fence lines and although the President and Queen would be granted privacy for their walk, not unlike the secret service, armed diplomatic officers remained nearby but in the shadows. The gate to the park would only open for the Queens vehicle to enter, shutting behind them. The pair could then get out and proceed; knowing security was close by.

Slowly the Queen left the comforts of the vehicle, pausing to wait for the President to get out before the pair could begin their slow walk around the park. A few moments in, she stopped and indicated to the bottom of a tree. "Look, two Robins" she pointed out, almost without a second thought. "There's a couple wildlife sanctuaries around here, they provide a great nesting site for them... do you get to wonder around parks normally? Or do they not permit a motorcade?" she jested. The rest of the walk, she'd be happy to point out what wildlife she could see, or her favourite parts of the park. Although here on business, a simple walk felt enough to build up some relation and just spend time with the US President. Ensuring to give him opportunity to raise any other topics of interest besides birds. Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private​

President Gore made note of the robins as he walked beside Her Majesty. His eyes carefully watched the birds as the Queen pointed them out. President Gore walked along side the Queen as they enjoyed the nature of the park around them. Even though the Secret Service would not relent in the protection of the President, Gore felt some kind of odd calm that the head of state of the United Kingdom had a similar or lesser security system than he did. He was the head of an empire that didn't want to be an empire, while she was the head of a kingdom that still meant to be an empire.

The President continued his walk with the Queen and made some small talk with her until he had to ask some final question.

"You Majesty..." he said softly as the two watched two ducks run about, "I fear who will be the future of the American Presidency... I am afraid that I haven't done my country well enough," he said as they continued to walk. The President would only make eye contact with her briefly, if she offered it. Gore's contemplation was instant and pure.

"This job takes a lot out of a man.... it killed the last man," he said, referring to President Clinton. "I know that there are forces at work to undo a lot of what I have been able to accomplish. It's uncomfortable to think about," he said to her, simply, and then kicked a small pebble along the path as they continued to walk.

Jamie
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[Jamie]

The Queen paused hearing the President confide in her, she looked up to him setting her eyes on the ducks "I understand your concerns, the forces that seek to undermine progress are always present, yet, so are the forces that we represent. You are certainly not alone in your feelings but it is the people you have inspired and the legacy that you leave behind that will continue to shape your nation. Remember, it is not only about immediate successes but about laying a foundation to the best of our ability so that no matter the future, they have everything required to continue your legacy." She paused, looking up to him

"Trust in your countrymen" she smiled, continuing their walk. Unless the President had much more to raise with her directly, it'd be a peaceful stroll around before they made for the exit to the awaiting vehicle and a return to Buckingham Palace. She made sure to fill the remaining walk with friendly chatter until they left. At this point, the Queen and President could go their separate ways to rest for the afternoon before the much anticipated State Banquet that would see the end of day one. During the afternoon, many staff within the palace focused on setting up the hall in which it would be hosted but planning for the event had taken place over many weeks prior to discuss food arrangements, how the night will unfold and who would be invited. So far, this saw around 150 individuals including the US President and advisors.

The President was made aware that the reception for the banquet begins at 1900 with it formally beginning at 2000 where the first course is served, and that the President and his wife would enter the banquet hall separately to everyone else as he would make an entrance with the Queen herself and sit beside her.

Hours had passed and the banquet was in sight, Buckingham Palace staff waiting at the entrance to welcome their guests with pre-dinner drinks and and in a guest room to mingle with others attending. The reception period would last for around 30 minutes before an announcement was made that invited all guests, excluding the President and Queen, into the Banquet Hall where they would be directed to allocated seats. During the seating, the President and his Wife were to be directed to a side room where the Queen met him again but this time, in a formal attire specifically for the banquet; accompanied by Prince Philip who kindly offered his greetings "Are we all ready?" he prompted, knowing their time to enter the banquet hall was nearing at 1945. Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private​

President Gore, who had entered office as a young man, was now ending his second term with hair that was beginning to gray and a dozen or so more wrinkles than he should have at his age. Waking up a three in the morning to talk to Prime Ministers on the other side of the world, or sending thousands of young Americans into battle, battling domestic and foreign politics with Congress, being shot in the back, or even just constantly being the man to make the most difficult decisions in the country after no one else could took a lot out of him.

The President listened to the Queen carefully and nodded his head, remaining silent throughout her answer. Being able to confide his deepest most inner thoughts to someone like this was deeply therapeutic. The only other two people that Gore could regularly do this with was his wife, of course, and Vice President Sinclair - though many Presidents did not get the luxury of having Vice Presidents who they personally liked. Normally, their political party chose someone who was from a certain state or had a certain religious background that would help them be elected President. Gore was fortunate - or unfortunate, given the circumstances of why he was able - to appoint perhaps the greatest living statesman in the nation as his Vice President.

At the time, President Gore didn't consider that something similar to this is what British Prime Ministers were able to do weekly with the Queen. He would later contemplate how unique the British system is where no matter who or how popular the Prime Minister is, they still have to answer to a sovereign head of state who will outlive his or her political career and had seen dozens in that position before them. He would later also silently wonder to himself if America's first handful of Presidents. or her first Vice President, would have ever thought that the world would be in a place where a conversation like that could happen, or that America and Britain would ever be such close allies as they are today. The President enjoyed the rest of the walk with the Queen, which was a much-needed activity after the flight from Washington to England. He made friendly small-talk with the Queen in return.

During the afternoon, before they were needed for official duties, the President found himself browsing through some books in a nearby room which he had not been explicitly told to stay out of. An agent from the Diplomatic Security Service, who was attached to the President's protection detail, knocked on the door, waited a few seconds, and then let himself in. The man was holding an envelope man of tanned cotton paper. On the outside it simply read, "To President Al Gore". Gore took it from the courier and thanked him. He sighed because he knew what it was, an in-person discussion had precluded its writing.


***

"Mr. President,

In 1997 I was a newly-appointed Secretary of State. I was chosen to be the designated survivor that night since I was the newest member of the Cabinet. I remember the Diplomatic Security Service whisking me away to my motorcade a little after nine in the evening. I was told that there had been a major explosion at the Capitol Building and that they were taking me to Andrews Air Force Base. At first they said the plan was to put us in the air on Air Force One, and then they changed their mind and said it would be Nightwatch which, as I am sure you know all too well, would mean that the United States may be in the middle of a strategic war with another country, or that the attacks that night had only just begun.

Before we could make it to Andrews, however, Nightwatch took off without us and circled Washington as our nation's defenses were risen much too late. I was redirected to the White House where I found deputy members of the Cabinet as well as directors and deputy directors from numerous federal agencies. News continued to come in that the explosion at the Capitol was not minor and that President Clinton and the Congress most likely did not, and would not, make it out alive. A sobering feeling washed over me and crept down into my bone marrow as I realized that I might be the last person left in the Presidential line of succession, until someone remembered that Vice President Gore was in Tennessee to see his father who was passing away.

The rest of that story is history. I am not sure what our country would be like today if I had been the man, but what I do know is that I am so happy it was you. You restored our government and brought our country together, and you continue to do so. Our country is surrounded by uncertainness whether it be in Canada and Mexico, or in Europe and East Asia. The only certain thing that we can depend on is ourselves, and our closest ally who you are tending to right now. Thank you for all of the hard work that you have done to protect our great country and to guide her through a tumultuous period of time for the world. It was an honor and a privilege to serve under both you and President Clinton. Despite my temper and my other flaws, I hope that I have proved to be a worthwhile diplomat and a good friend.

Effective in two weeks time, I will resign my position as the United States Secretary of State. During that time I will support Charlie Price in whatever capacity is necessary and help with the transition process in whatever way that you see fit. Please consider this as my official notice of resignation.

Your friend,

Jackson Fitzgerald
Secretary of State

***

President Gore was becoming a lame duck, the fate of every President, whether he wanted to or not. This was, perhaps, the first sign of it. He sighed and folded the letter back into the envelope and put it into the breast pocket of his suit. He walked back to the chambers that he was sharing with his wife and they got ready for the banquet. The President and First Lady were both there on time for the reception. President Gore was wearing white tie, something he was rarely able to do, while Tipper Gore was wearing the appropriate kind of dress for the occasion. They both looked beyond professional and they both felt somewhat out of place, though the royals had done a good job at making them feel at ease so far.

Once they had been gathered with the Queen and Prince Phillip, President Gore answered Phillip's question, "All ready, sir."​

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

The President and his family were granted privacy for their stay unless on formal duties but always had palace staff available to assist in any way possible, any way that would permit their visit be comfortable. This included access to a range of offices for work or any other amenities available. Staff, who were never far away, could also be requested by a phone call from within their accommodation. During the State Banquet, providing the President had approved prior, then the opportunity would be taken by the courtiers to have a clean of their accommodation, ensuring to leave any belongings of the guests untouched and just wiped down surfaces, removed any rubbish from the bins, etc. This would happen any time the President and his family were out of the room and only on their approval.

Prince Philip nodded before turning in time with the Queen as the pair begun their walk with the President and First Lady through some doors into the Banquet Hall, led by a couple of courtiers. Simultaneously, the national anthem 'God Save the Queen' instrumental played and all the guests rose to their feet until the Queen and President arrived at their seats. The dark red carpet offering a comfortable contrast with the whites and golds of the furniture and decorations set up specifically for the event. Passing the masses of guests who at this point, had already been seated, to the front. There, the Queen would be sat with her husband on one side, and the President on the other. Besides the President, the First Lady's seat. The guests were seated again and a few moments later, the Queen stood up. She looked to President Gore with a gentle nod before making the opening statement:

"Mr President, I am delighted to welcome you and Mrs Gore to Buckingham Palace this evening. It has been long overdue to welcome you back here, but I am so glad to have the opportunity to have you with us. Visits by American Presidents always remind us of the close and long-standing friendship between the United Kingdom and United States, one that thrives in adversity and in recent years, has proven this continues to be true. I am grateful for this opportunity to demonstrate the immense importance of the relationship that our countries share and in the coming days, Mr President, you will meet with many advisors of our government to lay the foundations that will enable the friendship between our countries to prosper in the future." There was a short pause, almost as if the last sentence was added on after their stroll through St Jame's Park, a small addition that was aimed directly to the President for his worry of the future once he leaves office.

"Tonight, we celebrate an alliance that has helped to ensure the safety and prosperity for the people of the United States and United Kingdom, which will endure for many years to come. Ladies and Gentlemen, I invite you all to rise and drink a toast to President and Mrs Gore, to the continued friendship between our nations and to the health of the people of the United States.

Guests rose from their seats and within seconds, the instrumental rendition of the Star Spangled Banner begun, lasting a few minutes before guests and the Queen raised their glasses, hopefully in line with the President and First Lady. Following the toast, a short burst of clapping erupted across the hall before coming to a sudden stop. There, the President was invited to make his opening speech.

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Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private​

The Americans in attendance would follow the lead of their British counterparts and would stand when it seemed it appropriate. Every attempt was made to follow the proper etiquette, but it probably was not totally unexpected for some people to make some honest mistakes. All of the Americans stood during the National Anthem, along with the President at the First Lady. Afterwards, President Gore cleared his throat.

"Your Majesty thank you for that kind toast, and thanks to you and His Royal Highness for inviting my family and I into your home. I am one of many presidents of the United States who have served during your reign as monarch, and there will be more after me. While prime ministers in the United Kingdom can last well over a decade or just a few years, and American presidents normally stay in office four to eight years, you reign as sovereign of this country for life. The leadership and consistency that you have brought to the United Kingdom has been, I think, unequivocally critical to your country. But, what we hear about less in the world, is the enormous impact your reign has had over the entire Anglosphere and the Western word at large. Thank you for your continued service to the United Kingdom," he said genuinely, "and your the true kindness you have showed those of us visiting from the Colonies," he said, hopefully to some light amusement of the crowd.

"The alliance between the United States and the United Kingdom is not just a political and economic convenience, but a cultural bond between two countries who share similar ties and who have fought alongside each other, twice, to save the world from tyranny. I look forward to working with your government during the rest of this trip to ensure that our countries may continue to work together and strive for a better future where our children can be safer... Ladies and gentlemen, I hope that you will join me.... God save the Queen," he said, raising his glass, and then taking a sip.

The high-ranking American officials in the room looked at each other and then followed in the President's direction and toasted the Queen. That may have indeed been the first time that an American President toasted a British monarch with that four-word anthem.​

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

The speech from the US President was well received by the guests who heard in person, the Queen lifting her own glass before taking a sip herself. With the opening finished, the night could continue at a steady pace, guests participating in small talk and an opportune moment for the Queen and President to engage in similar discussions. Approximately 5 minutes passed and the first course of meals were served, the rest of the evening followed a strict schedule:

20:15 First course served.
20:45 Main course served, featuring a choice of metas or vegetarian options.
21:15 Dessert is served followed by the official toasts where the Queen and US President exchange toasts to celebrate the relationship.
21:45 Coffee, tea, and petit fours are served. Guests have the opportunity to continue conversations and enjoy the evening's ambiance.
22:00 A cultural performance or musical entertainment is presented, showcasing British culture or special entertainment arranged for the guests. Afterwards, the Queen herself would take her leave to prepare for bed.
22:30 Guests are invited to retire to another reception area or lounge for informal conversations and nightcaps.
23:00 Guests begin to depart at their leisure. The President and First Lady were able to leave at a time that best suited them based on their enjoyment and engagement with the Queen and all other guests.

The next morning constituted of a planned breakfast with the Queen, Prince Philip, Gore and his family. Again, another opportunity to spend time with the Queen who would be happy to answer any questions and engage in causal chit chat. It had been some time, years in fact, since the Queen held such an engagement and spend this amount of time with a world leader. Breakfast was prompt before the Queen and Prince Philip prepared to leave for their daily duties. Acknowledging it as her last formal engagement with the President for his stay due to the schedule of the visit, the Queen spoke "It has been a pleasure to spend this time with you all" she begun, referring to the President and his family "I judge I would see you again today or tomorrow in passing but in the event I do not, I wish you a safe journey back to America and have truly enjoyed our talks." she smiled, departing to the duties for the rest of the day after saying her goodbyes.

Following the Queens departure, one of the Courtiers entered the room "Mr President, the Prime Minister has arrived for your meeting. The Defence Secretary and Foreign Secretary are with him so if you'd like to bring any of your staff, please do." smiled the Courtier, who, once everyone was ready, would lead the way into one of the conference rooms a few corridors down. A brief knock on the door and he entered to the sight of the British Prime Minister, Defence Secretary and Foreign Secretary who all stood forth to greet the President and his staff, if any. Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private​

President Gore and the First Lady enjoyed the dinner that evening. The President had a bit of trouble remembering which utensil to use first for what course, as there were many on the table, so he just took his lead from the Queen. While the White House often had black tie events, it virtually never had white tie events like this, at least in the modern era. The President admired how ornate and well-organized everything was while also at the same time being ordinary for the British individuals involved in the evening. A cynical individual might say that these kinds of events, with all of their pomp and circumstance, are benign vestiges of a bygone era that need to be quietly phased out from society. But Gore, who had been quietly observing and thinking about every event he and his family had gone through so far, had enjoyed every second of it. Whether those cryonicists wanted to admit it or not, this was a part of British culture and high society, and he was being allowed to participate because he was an honored guest - he wouldn't have wanted the evening to go any other way.

While President Gore was admittedly a nerd, he was also charismatic. He never wanted to disappoint a crowd and while he was normally the most important man in the room, he loved to talk to people one-on-one and learn their story. Many of the British guests that night had an opportunity to talk with the President directly after dinner and at least exchange a few words with him. The President probably would have stayed there into the early morning hours had the First Lady not been there to nudge him to go to back to their room and go to sleep. Shortly before midnight, the President and First Lady bid farewell to the remaining guests and returned to their chamber. The Secret Service remained on guard outside throughout the night, switching shifts every four hours.

The following morning, the President and First Lady joined the Queen and Prince Phillip for breakfast. "This will probably be the last time you both see me as President," Gore said in response to the Queen. "My only regret is that we were not able to invite you both to Washington for a visit... I'll be sure to let the next president, whomever he may be, know that he should consider doing that."

"Thank you for your well-wishes, Your Majesty. If either of you ever need anything, never hesitate to reach out to me... I'm only a world away," he said, with a smile.

The President sighed, feeling somewhat relieved after the breakfast was over and the royals had left, but also feeling some kind of melancholy. The resignation of Secretary Fitzgerald was still on his mind, even though he knew that it was coming. That resignation symbolized the beginning of the end of his presidency and also a significant amount of his soft-power influence in Washington. He reminded himself, though, of what the Queen had told him and that the American People would know who to choose (which was quite wise and well-meaning advice from an unelected monarch).

"Thank you," President Gore said simply to the courtier and nodded his head. Deputy Secretary of State Charlie Price, who was now the Acting Secretary of State, joined President Gore for the meeting along with Secretary of Defense John Glass. The three men participated in the meeting, plus President Gore's long-time chief of staff, Duncan Nichols, who was hovering in the background incase the President or the other American representatives needed something or had a question that he could help answer. Those three Americans followed in behind their commander-in-chief who was wearing a conservative three-piece black suite (something he almost never wore, but breakfast with the Queen warranted it), a white dress shirt, and a dark forest-green tie. Mrs. Gore thought that the tie would go well for his visit to Scotland in the afternoon.

The President, Acting Secretary of State, and Secretary of Defense all greeted the Prime Minister and his ministers. "Prime Minister, it's great to see you," he said. "My visit, so far, has been wonderful. Thank you for the invitation," he said as he shook his hand. The President introduced the other two men and also pointed out his chief of staff who was doing his best to stay back and not bring any attention to himself.

"Thank you for taking all of this time and going through the trouble, we feel right at home," Gore said sincerely.​

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

Lawrence smiled "Likewise, it's great to be here with you all.", indicating to opposite sides of the conference table after shaking each of the US guests hands and then taking his own seat with US and UK flags hoisted side by side at all four corners of the room. Defence Secretary Jason Green and Foreign Affairs Secretary Emma Ryan took their seats that would be facing the American delegates. Lawrence continued to speak "It's great to hear that you're comfortable but by all means, if there's anything that can be done to make your trip better, do let us know. With that said, I appreciate we only have this morning before your appointment this afternoon so lets crack on, shall we?"

There was a pause as Lawrence shuffled some papers in front of him "I wanted to prepare a brief agenda so we have a few focus points but by all means, let us know if there's anything you would like to bring up or elaborate on. The agenda I've put together is as follows:

Bilateral Relations covering how we can strengthen the special relationship between the UK and US and how to enhance collaboration on mutual interests.
Trade and Economics to establish trade deals and highlight tariffs, review investment opportunities and joint economic initiatives.
Security and Defence Cooperation to discuss current defence agreements such as the Treaty of Washington, equipment procurement and strategic alignments of our armed forces.
Regional Issues such as tensions in the Middle East, Asia, the concerns raised by the Canadian movement earlier this year against France and foreign policies.

It's quite a generic list of discussion points but I'm sure it will develop out as we discuss the first and what I think is one of the most important elements is the bilateral relations. The UK and US have always had a special bond and despite any differences in cultures, the way we operate or even if we disagree with any policies, I feel confident that we would always have each others backs. The term 'Special Relationship' is something I don't take lightly and is something I want to make sure we can live up too. One thing I believe to be lacking is communication which based on our records, is surprisingly limited and is something I would love to see develop further. For me, this would be aiming towards regular calls between subject-matter experts depending on what was needing to be discussed at the time, and to be done a couple times a year depending on world events for general catch up calls. Perhaps something the Foreign Office can arrange.

After this morning, I also think a joint action plan could be beneficial to outline specific initiatives and goals, with set timeframes. I understand Jason would like to raise some queries on defence that would fit nicely into that plan, and other agendas such as trade and even any responses to regional issues. Of course, all just ideas but we'd love to hear what your thoughts are." he stopped, giving the floor to his American guests. His 'speech' indicating he and his fellow cabinet members had already planned what was to be said thus far but the idea was just to get the ball rolling. Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private​

"We can agree to this agenda," President Gore said confidently. "I hope that we can take a few minutes to discuss the non-proliferation of strategic weapons under 'Security and Defense Cooperation' when it comes to it."

The President and his two subordinates listened carefully to the Prime Minister as he seemed to transition into talking about the first topic: Bilateral Relations.

"I really like your idea of occasional, scheduled calls for our governments to have some direct communications," said John Glass, Secretary of Defense. "But, if I may Prime Minister, I would like to take that one step further. With the presence of American Airmen in Britain, and British Airmen in the United States, and with the commitment to mutual defense between our two countries, I think that it could be beneficial for the United Kingdom to have a military attaché in the United States. He could have an office at the British Embassy in Washington so that he would just be a stone's throw away from the White House, and he could have a small number of offices at the Pentagon so that he could easily coordinate with our offices at the Department of Defense as well. Similarly, if your government was willing to allow it and the Defense Secretary had no issue with it," Glass said, acknowledging Secretary Green, "we could also permanently station a military attaché from our Embassy in London, and he could have offices at the Ministry of Defense.

"I think that the two branches of our armed forces that interact the most are our air and naval forces. Because we both have air forces directly stationed in each other's countries, it would probably be best to have a low-ranking general officer from our air forces, who also have some experience with or intimate knowledge of our respective navies. If this is something that Her Majesty's Government was interested in, we would probably send a United States Air Force Brigadier General," he said, which was the equivalent rank of an Air Vice Marshal in the Royal Air Force.​

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

Lawrence and Jason both nodded simultaneously to the request for strategic weapons before patiently listening to the rest of the Presidents response "A military attaché is certainly something we could accommodate within both countries, perhaps that ought to be part of a revised Treaty of Washington which I understand Jason is eager to have the opportunity to review it." He briefly looked to Jason who had just placed his pen down after taking a note before returning his gaze back towards the President "It would give us instant access to review any arising situations that may involve the military so we're definitely on board with it. From a non-military standpoint, I'd like to see some more encouragement between both the UK and US to push for regular dialogue and especially in times of political shifts globally.

This would allow us to coordinate policies together and ensure that we are on the same page, not necessarily handled from a Presidential or Prime Ministerial point of view but a direct line between our Foreign Offices. Rather than committed calls that last a life time, they would be about one specific subject such as any strategic interests, global challenges or mutual concerns and then we can each provide our policy on the matter and work together from there. Speaking ahead of other ways we can look to strengthen the relationship is something that had, somehow, been a missed opportunity I think. Emma will be raising the prospect of a trade agreement that can be discussed in that topic but it's another step that simply brings the UK and US that much closer... other collaboration efforts could explore the scientific community, healh initiatives and policy forums." Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private​

"Phone calls between some of our diplomats and representatives is a wonderful idea, and I fully support it," said Charlie Price, the Acting Secretary of State.

The President listed carefully while the other three Americans in the room shifted in their seats a bit uncomfortably as trade was mentioned. They all knew that President Gore hated trade negotiations, mostly because the United States had a protectionist-attitude towards trade and it was always awkward to tell representatives from other countries that they the United States government simply was not interested.... However, of all countries, an exception could be made for the United Kingdom.

"That all sounds very productive," President Gore said.​

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

"Fantastic to hear." responded Lawrence, taking a couple notes that consisted of the plans to introduce a military attaché and that governments from each side of the pond would seek to promote and encourage more mainstream communications that would be more concentrated on specific matters rather than a little bit of everything. Lawrence nodded to Emma who begun to speak "The Economy is a necessary evil but I'm proud to say that the latest figures from... this month, actually, confirm the trend that the UK and US, accompanied by Sweden, host the strongest economies globally. We all saw a dramatic collapse since the change in policy from Sparrow but at the moment, global GDP is the strongest it's ever been since 1995. Roughly 768 billion dollars. But... we're no strangers to how quickly that situation can deteriorate."

She paused, taking a sip from her glass of water "The strengthening economies of the UK and US shows how strong we can be independently, but I've put some figures together and I think a form of trade agreement would not only promote that growth, but help reduce any damages that may occur as a result of changes regionally or internationally. I was going to prepare a draft but I thought it best to gauge your interest and to give a summary of what this could include, based on your own input of course. The objective of the agreement would be simple, to promote trade, investment and enhance economic growth together. The key points could include:

- A gradual reduction of customs duties on originating goods of the other party. Upon entering force, we would be looking at a 50% reduction. Within three years, a total of 75% reduction. Within five years, no custom duty applied to goods between the UK and US.
- Cooperating to reduce technical barriers to trade between the UK and US.
- Both parties shall accord to services and service suppliers of the other Party treatment no less favorable than that it accords to its own like services and service suppliers.
- Each Party shall ensure that its domestic regulations affecting trade in services are based on objective and transparent criteria, such as competence and the ability to supply the service.
- Provide and ensure adequate, effective, and non-discriminatory protection of intellectual property rights.
- Enforce intellectual property rights in a manner that avoids the creation of barriers to legitimate trade.
- Cooperate on the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights, including through information exchange and capacity building.

There would naturally be more to do with the administration side but these key points would be the main benefits. If it's something you were keen on, I can arrange to compile a formal draft to be sent to the relevant email for you to review and we can work together from there to establish it properly." Emma stopped, passing the floor to her American counterparts. Odinson

 

[Odinson]

Private​

"Once again, I think that would be a good path for our governments to go down. The Anglosphere would be much stronger if every one of our countries decided to work together economically and to establish more free trade so that we can bolster ourselves up in the world. I have to admit that free trade agreements are not something the Congress has supported during my administration, however I think that with countries like the United Kingdom or Canada, it could actually work, and I will put effort into making it work. When you get a proposal in writing, please feel free to send it to my office, or to the Secretary of Commerce. I'm sure that we can come to a reasonable agreement that will benefit both of our nations," President Gore said sincerely.​

Jamie