Delegation

The recent commissioning of a new synthetic ammonia plant in Ploiesti, Romania, marks a significant advancement in the region's industrial capabilities. Funded by a substantial investment of 40 million lei by Crown Prince Edel, the plant is poised to outperform the BASF facility in Germany, producing an impressive 60 tons of synthetic ammonia per day. This capacity is double that of its German counterpart, underscoring Edel's ambitious vision not only to support the explosives industry but also to boost Romania's agricultural output through increased fertilizer production.

The choice of Ploiesti as the plant's location leverages the local abundance of natural gas, which, until now, has been largely underutilized, with a significant portion flared as waste during crude oil extraction. The establishment of the ammonia plant is a strategic move to harness these resources, thereby enhancing local economic levels and conserving energy.

As arrangements for the new plant were being finalized by Edel and his chief guard, an unexpected visit was announced. A guard entered the room, interrupting their discussion with news that the Foreign Minister, Barnosk, urgently needed to see the Crown Prince. The chief guard, understanding the gravity of such a summons, promptly excused himself to oversee the initial inspections of the plant's construction site.

Barnosk, a seasoned diplomat with a history of serving as Romania's ambassador to Germany and Austria, had recently been appointed as the Minister of Foreign Affairs. His diplomatic acumen was well-regarded by Edel, who had strategically placed him in the cabinet to enhance control over Romania's foreign relations. Upon entering, Barnosk relayed that Bulgaria's Prime Minister Geschov and Foreign Minister Dilas Roch were scheduled to visit Romania in a week.

Edel, aware of the shifting alliances within the Balkans, recognized this as Bulgaria's attempt to draw Romania into the Balkan League, especially given the recent closeness between Bulgaria, Serbia, and Greece. The Crown Prince queried Barnosk on the planned reception for the Bulgarian officials, to which the minister proposed a meeting co-hosted with the Prime Minister to gauge the visitors' intentions before any direct discussions with Edel.

Agreeing to the plan, Edel emphasized the need for diplomatic balance—neither too dismissive nor overly eager. Satisfied with the Crown Prince's directives, Barnosk departed to coordinate with Prime Minister Bretianu on the upcoming state visit, eager to demonstrate his diplomatic prowess and secure Romania's interests in the turbulent Balkan politics.

Meanwhile, in Bulgaria, King Ferdinand I, a man of significant royal lineage and the current ruler, discussed with his advisors the objectives for their forthcoming visit to Romania. The Bulgarian delegation, led by Prime Minister Geschov and Foreign Minister Dilas Roch, aimed to persuade Romania to join their alliance against the Ottoman Empire and possibly engage in military action.

Understanding the potential costs and benefits of such an alliance, they considered the necessity of territorial compensations to Romania, specifically eyeing the strategic area of Dobrogea. This region, rich in history and economic potential due to its access to the Black Sea, was deemed a likely bargaining chip in negotiations.

As the Bulgarian officials prepared for their journey, they reflected on their nation's challenges, including limited agricultural viability and scarce mineral resources, which starkly contrasted with Romania's flourishing exports and robust economy. The disparity underscored the urgency of their mission to secure Romanian support, or at least neutrality, in the face of looming conflicts.

Upon their arrival in Bucharest, the Bulgarian delegation was greeted with full honors, setting the stage for high-stakes diplomatic talks. The outcomes of these discussions would not only shape the future of Romania's foreign relations but also potentially alter the geopolitical landscape of the entire Balkan region.

"Your Excellency, Romania's Prime Minister Bretianu and Foreign Minister Barsnock are awaiting us at the platform," a member of the delegation informed Prime Minister Geschoff and Foreign Minister Tiras Loch as they approached the Romanian welcoming team.

"Understood," Foreign Minister Dilas Roche acknowledged with a wave of his hand, signaling the delegate to depart. He then turned to Prime Minister Geschoff, who was beside him, and remarked, "It appears that Romania is indeed giving us considerable attention."

Prime Minister Geschoff, adjusting his attire, responded without directly addressing the comment. "Let us not keep the Romanians waiting any longer." With a composed smile, he led the way to the car door, followed closely by Foreign Minister Dilas Roche.

On the platform, Prime Minister Bretianu and Foreign Minister Barnosk greeted them with warm smiles as they alighted from the vehicle. "Prime Minister Geschoff, on behalf of Romania, I warmly welcome your visit. I trust that this trip will strengthen the ties between Romania and Bulgaria, making our nations as close as brothers," Bretianu greeted enthusiastically.

"Thank you, Prime Minister Bretianu, for your personal welcome. This visit is intended to observe Romania's developmental achievements in recent years. We hope our Romanian friends will share their insights openly," Prime Minister Geschoff replied, his words laced with light humor.

"Rest assured, we will share our experiences candidly with our friends from Bulgaria," Prime Minister Bretianu responded, his tone equally jovial yet hinting at the competitive undercurrents between the two nations. Despite Romania's advantages in resources like oil and food, which provided a solid foundation for its development, the conversation remained diplomatically cordial.

The foreign ministers, meanwhile, exchanged smiles silently, their expressions one of mutual recognition, akin to long-lost brothers reunited.

As the initial greetings concluded, Foreign Minister Barnosk interjected, "We have arranged a welcome dinner in your honor. May I inquire if Prime Minister Geschoff requires some time to rest beforehand?"

"Thank you for your thoughtful consideration, Foreign Minister Barnosk," Prime Minister Geschoff replied, acknowledging the fatigue from their journey. "Indeed, a brief rest would be most welcome."

"That's perfectly fine," Bretianu assured him generously. "Please take your time to refresh yourselves, but do join us for the dinner later."

"With such warm Romanian hospitality, it would be our pleasure to partake fully," Geschoff said, as both delegations made their way to the Kingdom Hotel, managed by the Romanian government.

After ensuring his delegation was comfortably settled and Foreign Minister Barnosk had departed, Tiras Loch voiced his observations to Prime Minister Geschoff in a quiet corner of the hotel lobby. "Romania's enthusiasm might indicate they've anticipated our intentions."

"I suspected as much," Geschoff replied thoughtfully. "Our movements in the Balkans haven't exactly been discreet. Nonetheless, from my discussion with Prime Minister Bretianu, it's clear they've prepared well and will likely have high expectations."

Tiras Loch frowned slightly, "Does this complicate our objectives?"

"Not necessarily," Geschoff reassured him. "The real concern would be if they showed indifference or refused to engage. That would truly be problematic."

Their conversation then turned to the broader geopolitical landscape, particularly the implications of Romania potentially joining the Balkan League in its conflicts. With Romania's well-organized military and its substantial mobilization capabilities, their involvement could significantly alter regional dynamics.

After a brief rest, the Bulgarian delegates, dressed in formal evening attire, reconvened. Prime Minister Geschoff confirmed everyone's readiness before they descended to the banquet hall for the evening's event.

As they entered, Prime Minister Bretianu and Foreign Minister Barnosk welcomed them. "Prime Minister Geschoff, we hope tonight's dinner will provide an enjoyable and relaxing atmosphere for all," Bretianu said, ushering them into the lively hall where the clinking of glasses and buzz of conversation filled the air.

The dinner progressed smoothly until a hushed announcement preceded the arrival of His Royal Highness Prince Edel, who was greeted with respectful salutes from the attendees. Taking a glass of wine, he addressed the gathering. "Let us toast to the enduring friendship between Romania and Bulgaria," he declared, raising his glass.

The toast was met with enthusiastic cheers, and as the crowd settled, Prime Minister Geschoff saw an opportunity to engage with the influential crown prince. Approaching Prince Edel, he expressed his hopes for bilateral relations, subtly broaching the subject of the Ottoman Empire and the plight of various ethnic groups under its rule, including the Romanians in Macedonia.

Prince Edel, cautious yet diplomatic, promised to consider Geschoff's concerns, indicating that any substantive decisions would involve the Romanian Cabinet. This response, while non-committal, allowed Prime Minister Geschoff to gauge the level of Romanian engagement and left room for further dialogue during their visit.

As the evening concluded, Prime Minister Geschoff reflected on the interactions, optimistic that despite the challenges, the visit would yield fruitful discussions and perhaps pave the way for stronger bilateral cooperation.