Excusez-moi, mesdames et messieurs ! - The entrance door of the banquet hall opened up and a young man stepped in. He was in his early thirties, wearing his usual decorated military uniform. He waited until the consul finished the question, then apologised for his late arrival and bowed as a greeting to all representatives in the hall. - Due to certain unforeseen circumstances and duties President Castaignède is unable to attend this conference today, giving me the tasks and responsibilities to convey her apologies, as well as to represent the République de La Gaule during this meeting. I am Général Pierre LaFlamme, and I hope I did not miss anything important yet. - With that he joined the rest of the gallic delegates, taking the vacant seat at their table.