And that was what the group did. The next morning, they wasted no time and made their way to the United States Embassy in Paris. Aware of the urgency of their situation, Morgan had called ahead to schedule a meeting with the ambassador, emphasizing the gravity of their purpose.
As they arrived at the embassy, they were ushered in with priority. The receptionist recognized Morgan's name and influential status, allowing them swift access to Ambassador Smith's office. Nerves tingling with anticipation, Morgan, Jonathan, Sara, and Caroline stepped into the room, where the ambassador awaited them.
"Mr. Ambassador, thank you for seeing us," Morgan greeted, extending his hand in a firm handshake. Jonathan, Sara, and Caroline followed suit, acknowledging the ambassador with respect.
Ambassador Smith, a seasoned diplomat with a warm demeanor, returned their greetings. "It's my pleasure. Please have a seat."
The group settled into the comfortable chairs arranged around a polished wooden table. Morgan took a moment to compose his thoughts before explaining the dire circumstances surrounding Poul's arrest and detention by the British authorities in Paris. He highlighted the unlawful extradition and emphasized Poul's status as an Avalonian citizen.
"We seek your assistance, Mr. Ambassador, in rectifying this unjust situation," Morgan implored. "Poul's safety and well-being are at stake, and we believe that diplomatic intervention is our best course of action."
Ambassador Smith listened attentively, his expression reflecting his growing concern. He understood the implications of such a diplomatic blunder and the need for immediate action.
"I sympathize with your predicament," the ambassador responded, his tone serious. "The United States will not tolerate unjust arrest on one of our citizens, that I can assure you. Though I must ask why you omitted the reason why the British arrested him in the first place."
"That's the problem. Mr. Ambassador, they didn't specifically state why they were arresting him," Morgan replied. "Isn't that right, Ms. Asca…I meant Ms. Olsen?"
"That is right, they took him away, and not only that, they were authorized by the French government," Sara added.
Ambassador Smith furrowed his brow, his concern deepening at the revelation. The omission of a specific reason for Poul's arrest troubled him, as it raised further questions about the circumstances surrounding the unjust detention.
"I see," the ambassador said, his tone turning grave. "An arrest without a clear reason and with the authorization of the French government is a matter of great concern. It suggests a potential violation of international protocols and raises questions about the involvement of multiple parties in this affair. Well, sadly, gentleman, this issue won't be solved overnight. I have to inform the men in Washington and get instruction from there."
"Are you going to reach out to the President?" Jonathan asked.
"No, there is a chain of command here, Mr. Axelsen. I'll inform the Secretary of State first, and then he will discuss the matter with higher authorities in the government," Ambassador Smith clarified. "Rest assured, I will make every effort to expedite the process and ensure that Poul's case receives the attention it deserves."
Morgan nodded, understanding the diplomatic protocols at play. "Thank you, Mr. Ambassador. We trust in your expertise and determination to bring about a swift resolution."
"Not a problem, it is my duty to uphold justice and protect the rights of our citizens," Ambassador Smith replied earnestly. "I will pay President Carnot a visit later, telling him about this case."
"Much appreciated," Morgan thanked him once more and the three expressed their gratitude.
***
Three days later, on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean, the White House stood majestically in the heart of Washington, D.C. The sun cast a warm glow on its white facade as the bustling city continued its daily activities. Inside, President Benjamin Harrison sat in the Oval Office, engrossed in his duties.
As President Harrison reviewed various matters of state, his chief of staff, William Windom, approached his desk, holding a stack of documents. William was a trusted advisor, known for his astute judgment and discretion.
"Sir, there's an urgent matter that requires your attention," William began, his voice carrying a sense of urgency.
President Harrison looked up, intrigued. "What is it, William?"
William placed the documents on the president's desk and began explaining the situation surrounding Poul's arrest and detention in Paris. He detailed the unlawful extradition, the involvement of the British and French governments, and the diplomatic efforts initiated by Morgan and his group.
"The Ambassador to France, Mr. Smith informed us of the circumstances," William continued. "He believes there may be a violation of international protocols, and Poul's safety is at stake."
President Harrison leaned back in his chair, his expression carefree. "Who is this Poul Nielsen?"
"You don't know him, Mr. President? He is an industrialist founder of the Axelsen and Nielsen Companies throughout the country, the one who invented the air brakes, electrical appliances, alternating current systems, electric locomotive, the maker of our new standard rifle, the AN-M1 rifle."
"Ah, Poul Nielsen? I remember him now. How could I forget such an important figure in our country? Now, let's return to the matter at hand. You said he was unlawfully detained by the British with assistance from the French, correct? If that is true, then we must take immediate action. It is unacceptable to subject a foreigner to the laws of a country they are visiting," President Harrison clarified.
William nodded, acknowledging the president's statement. "Indeed, Mr. President. I already called the Ambassador of the British Empire, he will arrive at the White House shortly to discuss this matter with you."
President Harrison nodded, appreciating William's proactive approach. "Good, William."
Thirty minutes later, the British Ambassador, Sir Arthur Langley, arrived at the White House. President Harrison and William Windom welcomed him into the Oval Office, where they gathered around the President's desk.
"Thank you for joining us, Ambassador Langley," President Harrison greeted him, extending his hand. "Please have a seat."
The British Ambassador took a seat, his expression reflecting a mix of professionalism and curiosity. "Thank you, Mr. President. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss this pressing matter with you."
President Harrison wasted no time and got straight to the point. "Ambassador Langley, we have received alarming information regarding the arrest and detention of Mr. Poul Nielsen in Paris. It has come to our attention that his detainment was carried out without a clear reason and with the involvement of the French government. This raises significant concerns about the violation of international protocols and the protection of Mr. Nielsen's rights."
Ambassador Langley listened attentively.
"Mr. President, I don't think you know this, but Poul Nielsen is involved in a conspiracy regarding Penelope Ascart's disappearance," Ambassador Langley interjected, his voice carrying a mix of concern and resolve. "Our government has evidence that he kidnapped the daughter of the Prime Minister of the British Empire and orchestrated an elaborate scheme that has caused significant embarrassment and turmoil. Therefore, we cannot hand Poul Nielsen over to your custody at this time. He will be judged according to the laws of our country."
President Harrison's brows furrowed as he absorbed this unexpected revelation.
"Wait, what are you talking about? Penelope? Poul kidnapped her?" President Harrison's voice carried a mix of surprise and concern.
Ambassador Langley nodded solemnly. "That is correct, Mr. President. The abduction of Penelope Ascart deeply affected the people of the British Empire. She is not only the daughter of our Prime Minister but also a symbol of hope, who brought miracles to the masses. We cannot allow such a heinous crime to go unpunished. Therefore, it is in your best interest not to interfere with our proceedings. Or else risk a war between us."
"War?" Harrison stammered. "Seriously?"
"Yes, so let us have Poul Nielsen, and our countries can do business as usual," Langley paused for a moment before continuing. "In fact, I have brought with me an official extradition request from the British government. I hope you will consider it seriously."
President Harrison took the extradition request from the Ambassador and began to read it carefully.
"I will need time, Mr. Ambassador, thank you for coming."
"Understood, Mr. President, but I do advise that you don't linger."
