Nathaniel Thornton had not been leader of Chrinthanium for very long and he had already got his fair share of political stumbles, he'd been shot at, he'd had a tantrum over California getting a new submarine, prompting ridicule in news groups around the globe as well as various other issues. In short, Chrinthanium was now beginning to be viewed with some suspicion, a state that seemed to be becoming increasingly volatile. For Florida, a more desperate and isolated leader controlling an empire of some 100 million people along their northern border was not exactly desired. What the young, fatherless Nathaniel seemed to need was a mentor, someone he could come to ask for advice. He needed a father who could understand him. José Sócrates thought he could fill that role.
Now, José Sócrates had recently become president to the Federação de Comércio, and with that, Florida as well. President José Sócrates saw himself as one of the most important men on the planet. As was common among Florida's leaders, he was 'flash'. He knew how to dress and how to talk to be both an icon and a vote-winner. Still, he wasn't an irresponsible leader and he saw the bigger picture, if things in Omaha carried on, then he would have a lot more problems generating than he might be able to cope.
José had met Nathaniel before, at a conference of American leaders in Omaha itself. The conference was a good meet, but ultimately unproductive to any real change in North America. Still, José felt he had connected with the Chrinthani Emperor well enough to have this little talk, an attempt to work thing's out. He would have to be careful with his wording as Nathaniel was clearly able to abruptly change his position. Still a discussion was the best way forward, and with Nathaniel already on his way to the Federal Palace of Novo Lisboa, it was too late for the Floridian president to turn back. The president paced around his office in one of his many designer suits.
"Shit. Diogo, how do I talk to this guy? I can't upset him but I need to tell him what's what. He needs to calm down."
Diogo Fernão do Pó had been one of José Sócrates' closest political allies on his way to the presidency and was now the president's main advisor, someone that could be relied upon.
"Well, this guy is just 21 right? He lost his dad, he needs a father, we know this, right?"
The president nodded in agreement as his trusted companion paused.
"So, following this" the greying politician continued. "What you need to do is act like a good father would. Make sure everything you say is cared for. Of course, don't tell him, suggest things. Use terms like, 'what I would do' and things. Make him feel that he can open up to you if you can. Just be careful and considered. I'd be worried in your position too, but remember that he cannot be as bad as the media portray. He isn't going to be insane, at least he probably won't." The old man chuckled at this last remark, the president joining him.
"Diogo, what would I do without you?"
