An Asterian Abroad [Kylaris]

[The Kingdom of Glitter]

AN ASTERIAN ABROAD

A Kylaris RP

---

Following his landslide victory in the 2016 Federation election, President-Elect Benjamin Avery has chosen to boost his foreign policy credentials by meeting with leading members of the Euclean Community. Avery, who defeated incumbent President Ronald White, hopes to start a new age of friendly relations between Euclea and the Federation, ties that in recent years have begun to go cold. The Eucleans, who are faced with internal divisions over the future of the Community and the growing North-South divide in terms of power, hope the young Asterian President-Elect will be able to follow through on his promises. In recent months, much of Euclea has ground to a halt as a result of the ongoing oil crisis. The efforts of Gaullican President Jean Vallette to end the deal were undermined following the Biyadi-Carcosian War, which resulted in the collapse of a deal made to end the embargo by PENB on Euclean members of DITO. As oil prices continue to soar, reaching new highs by the day, the President-Elect is faced with a nation ravaged by high oil prices. Discontent at home has begun to grow, with gas riots breaking out in Avery's home city of Freeminster. Meanwhile in Euclea, nations are still scrambling to deal with the loss of access to the vast majority of their oil supply. Glytter, who had previously worked to alleviate the pains of some of its partners, has since found itself tangled up in a complicated deal with Negara. In order to discuss ongoing affairs, Euclea leaders have agreed to meet the young President-Elect at the Imperial Resort in the Glytteronian city of Pennsea. Will the Eucleans be able to persuade Avery to truly end the crisis? Will Avery be able to persuade the Eucleans his presidency will truly mark a new era for Asterian-Euclean relations? Only time will tell if cynicism will rule once again.

Dramatis Personae:
Benjamin Avery - President-Elect of the Federation of Asteria, Senator from Eaglen. Young, liberal reformer who hopes to solve the oil crisis and fix relations with Euclea.
Carolien Dykstra - Speaker of the Euclean Parliament. A fierce socialist dedicated to ensuring the Euclean Community does not leave behind its most vulnerable, something she fears the oil crisis has done.
Alexander Lévesque - President of the Euclean Community. Faced with increasing unpopularity due to recent crises, he hopes to put an end to the crisis that has choked much of Euclea.
Katherine McDermott - High Commissioner of the Euclean Community. Is responsible for ensuring the EC functions on a day to day basis and does not care much for the usual fanfare of politics.
Jean Vallette - President of Gaullica. Affectionately known as the Grandfather of Euclea, his charismatic abilities help him mediate any situation.
Alexis Walker - Veteran Taoiseach of Glytter. A policy based leader who influences much of Euclea's purse-strings and is reluctant to trust the Asterians.

---

Taoiseach Walker was sitting in the Imperial Resort's executive conference room with her Chief of Staff and personal secretary. The trio had arrived, along with a host of SBF agents, in Pennsea the night before. The city, which was Glytter's leading holiday destination, was home for the Taoiseach. Her family first moved to Pennsea in 1983, where they would remain since. She was proud to represent her city in the Comhthionól and was even happier to host the President-Elect there. Senator Avery had requested the meeting keep a low profile, away from the usual fanfare of meetings of this capacity. Walker knew exactly what to do and exactly where to do it. Pennsea would not catch the eye of the mainstream media and it would be easy for her and her counterparts to slip into the city. Besides, who was to say the President-Elect was not simply visiting to go to the city's many casino resorts.

Papers were shuffled around the table as Walker read them. Her staff had prepared some talking points for her regarding Avery's campaign promises and what they believed was actually viable. The Taoiseach had known for some time what she would discuss with the Asterian and her Euclean partners, but until their arrival she would continue to examine the papers before her.

[Liecthenbourg]

To say that Jean Vallette disliked travelling would be a great misunderstanding. The man, now almost near his 81st year, was an avid traveller. Indeed, during his youth and military service in distant shores did the man find himself stationed: the exotic locations of Nouveau Anglet, or the islands along the coasts of Asteria Inferior. Even minor ventures and training exercises into Bahia did the man find himself in. However, he was not immune to the grasp of time and life and thus things had began to wear him down more easily. Travelling for matters of state, however important, left a weary man as he slumped back onto the plane home. The conceptions of meeting the President-Elect of the Asterias, as well as meeting long time friend Alexis Walker, did invigorate him. So did the company of Mr. Lévesque, President of the Euclean Community and a fellow Gaullican. Both had travelled to Glytter together and were now amidst a rather lovely, jet black limousine towards the hotel in Pennsea in which this meeting would take place.

Two attendants opened either door on the back of the vehicle and out stepped both individuals. Before them stood the hotel, a faint glimmer of luxury and imposing stature amidst the quaint-and-often-ignored city of Pennsea. For its fame in regards to casinos, Vallette cared little for it. Gambling left a distaste in his mouth and an ill gone venture since the days of yore. Gambling for cigarettes in the middle of island tropics was an altogether different story.

The cool and collected voice of Lévesque breached through the mental recollections. "Shall we?" he asked, gesturing forth to the hotel.

Vallette let forth a smile, ever so brief and began walking up the steps into the reception of the hotel. "Indeed we shall." With that, both individuals stepped forth into the reception of the 'Imperial Resort' hotel.

[Alinora]

If President-elect Avery was to have any shot in completing his early term goals, and indeed the goals for his entire presidency, he believed that he would need to reach out to foreign nations early on and begin mending the wounds of the past, while also refreshing alliances that have worn dull over the years. Against the wishes of his Transition Team, he boarded a plane to Glytter, where he would meet with members of the Euclean Community. While he couldn't deny the fact that we was travelling to Glytter, it was highly played down by his Team, which said it was just "a brief meeting to 'iron out the kinks' in relations between Euclea and the Federation." In fact, it was actually much, much more.

The city of Pennsea was a gambling and cultural hub for the Glytteronian people, and indeed many from across Euclea. It was very similar to Las Ventros, an Asterian city in Dinejo, which is the gambling and lesser-known hub of Organized Crime in the Federation. The architecture in Glytter, like the rest of Euclea, differed from architecture in the Federation and other Asterian countries - for many Euclean cities and styles grew around the technology available, and expanded as populations did. In the Federation, Roeselle, and Senouillac, most cities were planned with grids, and had a more modern style that evolved with the times, rather than remaining in one era. Driving through the city to the iconic 'Imperial Resort' in a simple black Sedan was enjoyable, but the scene was cut as the car pulled into an underground carpark. Upon stopping, Ben was greeted by a number of guards, and he proceeded to follow them to the meeting place...

[The Kingdom of Glitter]

The Taoiseach was now standing in front of one of the conference room's tall, glass windows. Below her was the iconic Pennsea boardwalk, a site she had see many times. Walker had very fond memories of her life in Pennsea, and had made many on the city's 'Iron Pier' with her children. The beaches were vacated, and would remain that way until the summer peak season returned. At this time of year, Pennsea was a destination for pensioners and families hoping to take cheaper vacations before the Christmas holiday consumed the nation.

A static murmur could be heard in one of the earbuds of the SFB agends. The voice said "Eagle is on his way, Lion is close behind".

The agent approached Walker's Chief of Staff, Seamus O'Leary. "They are on their way, Sir" the agent said in a low voice.

"Right", O'Leary said as he stood up and made his way over to the windows.

"M'am, they have arrived" he told the Taoiseach.

"Wonderful news. Any word on the Speaker and High Commissioner?" she inquired.

"They will be joining us soon after the Gaullicans and Avery" her Chief of Staff replied.

"We best see our guests in then, Seamus" Walker said as she briskly walked towards the conference room's class double doors. In the distance she could see her friend Jean Vallette accompanied by the Euclean President. The doors were opened for them by two SFB agents and Walker moved closer towards them.

"Jean, Mr. Lévesque. The pleasure is mine" she said as she embraced the elder Gaullican, kissing him on the cheek.

President-Elect Avery was being shown into the room as Walker began greeting the Gaullicans and the doors were closed behind him.

[Liecthenbourg]

"Nonsense, nonsense Alexis!" Vallette intervened, returning the kiss on the cheek with one of his own. "The pleasure is ours, madam."

Following their greeting, Lévesque moved forth and shook the Taioseach's hand. "A pleasure to see you again, madam. I appreciate your holding of this meeting, for its potential is to have many a greet thing bloom out of it."

With President-elect Avery moving into the room both Gaullicans turned towards the door. The President of the Euclean Community moved forth slightly as the man approached and shook him by the hand. "Let me wish you congratulations for your victory in person, Mr. Avery. A well fought election; and a pleasure to meet you in person." Jean nodded and once the younger Gaullican had finished the friendly shake, he took put forth his hand.

"It is great to see you once more, now the President, and not the Senator whom came live on Gaullican TV!"

[Alinora]

"It is great to see you once more, now the President, and not the Senator whom came live on Gaullican TV!"

Avery gave a genuine smile as he shook the hand of the Euclean President. "Thank you very much" he would say in response to the congratulation. He then turned to Jean. "It's good to see you again, Mr. President". Taking a deep breath, Avery turned to Alexis Walker and the other representatives of the Euclean Community: Carolien Dykstra, and Katherine McDermott. He proceed to shake their hands, giving them all greetings, waiting to shake Walker's last. "Taoiseach, it's good to meet you in person at last. I'll admit, I'm glad you decided to show up. Relations between our nations aren't historically great, so I'm happy you decided to give this olive branch a shot."

[The Kingdom of Glitter]

After greeting the Gaullicans, Walker turned her attention to the President-elect. As the two shook hands she listened to the young Asterian speak very carefully. When conducting diplomacy with those from the Federation, Walker knew it was important to hear and analyze every word. They were an oddly sensitive people. The wrong combination of words at the wrong time could spell disaster, and it had before. Incumbent Ronald White fit the silent stereotype Walker held for Asterians very well, and she had hopes Avery would be different. After all, that appeared to be the case.

She silently wrangled a few things he said. I'm glad you decided to show up. It was unlike her, and her predecessors, to miss diplomatic meetings. Glytter doesn't boycott diplomatic talks, it leads them. Relations between our nations aren't historically great, so I'm happy you decided to give this olive branch a shot. Of course relations are bad, she thought to herself, it was his country that had occupied and oppressed hers. Ties between Glytter and the Federation had been strained for decades, remnants of the Occupation and Quasi-War. Walker's party in part surged off of anti-Asterian sentiment, and to a lesser degree anti-Asterian insurgencies.

"I am equally as pleased" Walker told Avery with a smile. "We in Glytter, and I believe I can speak for my associates in Euclea, view the issues you campaigned on quite favorably. It is no secret that tensions have been strained under the White Administration, and I look forward to working with you to ensure our countries work together".

Walker waved her Chief of Staff and other assorted aides out of the room, and motioned to the table before them. "Please everyone, take a seat. I am sorry for the formality of the table, I'm afraid the Imperial did not have any couches to spare" she said with a chuckle.

[Alinora]

Avery took his seat - watching the others as they did as well, and did not take his time getting down to business. "I hate to jump right into it, but there are a few things I would like to start with, if I may." He looked around, and nobody seemed to have any argument. "Before we move onto the broad subject of foreign policy and international relations, I'd like to explain my current plans for my first one hundred days." He shifted his weight in his chair.

"In the first week after inauguration, I plan to repeal the Mason Acts - a hopeful step towards improving tense relations with Glytter." He looked over at Walker for a moment, then returned to explaining. "The largest piece of legislation of my term will also hopefully come during the first 100 days - a plan currently called 'Asteria Works' In short, it's a massive economic, infrastructure, and industrial reform designed to bring the jobs back to the Federation. This includes massive infrastructure projects, Federal loans to manufacturers to revamp Asterian factories, and other things like that." He paused. "Along with the Asteria Works Program will be a massive tax reform - a 15% flat tax for all Asterians, rich and poor, rather than massive tax cuts for the wealthy under the White Administration that have bled my country dry."

He paused for a moment. "Thoughts?"

[The Kingdom of Glitter]

Walker was intrigued. Inadvertently, she did not care much for Avery's points about mending ties between the two countries nor did she care much about Asteria Works. The first she knew would only matter once concrete attempts to fix the shattered relationship were made. She had a few ideas as to how to go about this, and would not refrain from mentioning them as the meeting went on. Likewise, she thought Asteria Works meant simply one thing: a catchy slogan. Walker sincerely hoped the plan would be a success, but hoped Avery would come to understand that the time for heavy industry in the East had come to an end a few decades ago. But, that was neither here nor there.

What did catch her interest was the flat tax. In Glytter, this was easy. The Glytteronian government's expenses were modest compared to many other Euclean democracies. Likewise, the Petroleum Trust Fund helped the country offset much of its expenses, so a flat tax worked here. Glytter and its small, homogeneous population was nothing like the Federation. Walker had concerns that she viewed more as advice.

"The flat tax idea is interesting, Mr. Avery. As you know, Glytter is one of the few countries who has implemented one. It was harder than it seemed. I do see the argument for a proportional tax of course, but one can assume where I stand on the issue of taxation. However, I do hope the flat tax takes into consideration the immense defence budget the Federation has. While many would say it is ideal for countries to switch to a flat tax, issues such as spending must be taken into consideration. We were lucky here and oil helped us".

She paused for a moment as Speaker Dykstra silently scoffed.

"In regards to mending the ties between our nations, perhaps you would attend the upcoming memorial service for the Battle of Glytter? It takes place on January 29th, after your inauguration. I know it is quite quick into your presidency to make such a trip abroad, but it would be highly symbolic and would be an excellent way to mark a new diplomatic age between our nations" Walker finished.

[Liecthenbourg]

It was the turn of the two Gaullicans to look slightly uncomfortable. Mr. Lévesque brandished a brief tired face that had come to resonate the past few days of his presidency, though it had begun to alleviate once PENB and the EC had seemingly decided that Biyadh was clearly overstepping its bounds. He intertwined his fingers, in thought, listening to the Glytteronian and the Asterian.

Vallette remained with a small smile on his face, but within he noted the slight uncomfortable nature of this topic of conversation. The Battle of Glytter. The World War. Wherever Gaullicans seemed to tread the branding of such an immense global conflict would creep on behind them. It was there silent chain of burden. Perhaps one that was deserved. Both he and Lévesque probably had the same mental process as of that moment; whilst the war itself was a grand travesty, certain acts within them received greater appraisal than others. The Battle of Glytter, undergone by Admiral Voclain, was regarded as a fiendish event carried out by a man who had done his duty. Voclain, for all the contention he caused due to his gambit upon that pre-emptive strike, was regarded as an honourable, almost heroic, man.

"This... topic of taxation, if I may revert it back for a moment, is most intriguing." Vallette began. "I must note, that perhaps out of personal preference, proportional taxation equates to more solidarity. One runs the risk of having tax loopholes, but these are problems that must be dealt with. Glytter, as Mrs. Walker has stated, indeed does run a flat tax. I would go so far to argue however that Glytter is a unique case - an anomaly amidst running a state, if you will. I mean no offence in these words, but one must equate the 'small' state of Glytter, with its carefully formulated tax plan, equates to its situation. Perhaps, Mr. Avery, you could consider stamping out any potential tax loopholes and reverse the tax cuts for the rich."

It was Lévesque whom continued the point. "Most of the nations in our Euclean Community follow a proportional tax system and once more Glytter is a unique case with a perfectly functioning system for her unique situation. It is difficult, as perhaps can be shown by the Neoliberal movements of the late Gaullican Conservatives before myself, and perhaps in Estmere, that attempting to change the tax code or implement a flat-tax in attempts to lower tax rates across the board was met with hostility from the working and middle classes." Lévesque stifled a short laugh. "I believe it was commented in the... uh, Herald." Vallette nodded, knowing as to what he referred. "When Clélie Gérin-Lajoie attempted to push forth her tax plan ideas of negating income and resources, well, 'Why do the men in the flats pay the same as the men in the castles?' A scenario difficult to justify, as you can imagine."

[Alinora]

Avery noted the reserves that both Walker and Valette had, and understood them. Implementing a flat tax on a country like the Federation would be quite the accomplishment, but only if done successfully. "Taoiseach, the Federal Military Budget is currently hovering at around 600 billion - a staggering number, and larger than every country by a lot - even Kaxakh, who we beat by more than a hundred million. I am certain my tax reform will allow for budgets to remain how they are, but part of Asteria Works is slashing military spending by some 75 billion in pouring that money into the program." He paused. "Presidents have been struggling to find the money to get things done for decades, when it's just been sitting in the military budget. This 75 billion cut in spending still puts us far above the rest of the world, but gives us a huge vat of funding for the program." Once again, he paused. "On the matter of the 88th Anniversary of the Battle of Glytter, I would be honored to appear and attend. They're my countrymen, and fellow soldiers, and it's our responsibility to make sure that they know they're deaths weren't in vain. He made uneasy eye contact with Valette, not trying to make him uncomfortable.

"I understand your own concerns President Vallette, and I thank you for voicing them." Avery said. "My team and I are doing our best to make sure the rich can't get out of paying their fair share - Asteria might be a nation of business and corporations, but not a nation where the rich can run around without fiscal responsibility."

[The Kingdom of Glitter]

"My only concern" Walker said carefully, "is that while you hope to undo the tax cuts of your predecessor but at the same time you are cutting taxes for the wealthy. If I am not mistaken, the highest rate for your nation's income tax floats around forty percent, which is applied to the highest earners. A flat tax would be cutting that by nearly twenty five percent. So, the same people who experienced tax cuts under the White Administration will technically be doing the same under yours. One worrying thing is that these cuts will be applied the board, but there will be no major changes to the budget. You mention seventy five billion will be cut from defence, but that it is going to be spent elsewhere. How could you cut your tax revenue by billions of dollars without comprehensive, across the board cuts?"

"Granted, this is of course something I am sure your administration can tackle. However, as the head of government of the few nations to adopt a flat tax and the leader of a libertarian party, I hope to offer you sound advice on the subject" she smiled.

Walker hoped to shift the conversation away from Asteria's domestic policies, as that had little to do with Euclea and was of little interest to her. She viewed the Asterians cynically. Sweeping reforms by an Asterian government, in her eyes, meant minimal progress or change. In many ways, this was justified. Past presidents either failed to deliver on their promises of domestic change, torpedoing their political careers and tarnishing their legacies in the process. What made Avery different? The Taoiseach was not sure, but hoped to find out.

"If yo do not mind, I would like to shift the discussion towards Euclea and DITO. Since the start of the oil crisis, we have seen Roeselle join DITO. This comes at a time of increased tensions between the East and the West, and might I also add within the alliance. Mr. Avery, what do you plan to do to counter the worsening situation with Kaxakh and if I may be blunt, the very worrying changes in Sveltlana?" Walker asked.

[Alinora]

"If you do not mind, I would like to shift the discussion towards Euclea and DITO. Since the start of the oil crisis, we have seen Roeselle join DITO. This comes at a time of increased tensions between the East and the West, and might I also add within the alliance. Mr. Avery, what do you plan to do to counter the worsening situation with Kaxakh and if I may be blunt, the very worrying changes in Sveltlana?" Walker asked.

Avery shifted his weight in his seat before responding. "With Kaxakh, I initially wanted to move towards a state of cooperation and understanding, but given the increase in hostility the nation is showing, I feel that this is no longer possible. It is in this regard that I fear President White was right - Kaxakh is a beast that can never be tamed, nor befriended, but needs to be contained." He paused. "However, this is not my top concern - ending the War in Nuranz, and subsequently the embargo, is."

He stopped, waiting for a reply, and carefully neglecting to mention Svetlana.

[Liecthenbourg]

"The War in Nuranz is a risky business." Vallette added.

"And an immense source of much trouble for our Community." President Lévesque added in. "We give no fault to you or your country, nor Estmere and Wazovia whom supported you - a noble goal was indeed the aim, we feel." The man reached for a glass of water and sipped on it slightly.

"Ending the War in Nuranz, itself, however, could leave a host of unintended consequences. We support the endeavour wholeheartedly, but I feel that Asteria, despite being the main component of this democratic-cog, will need to willingly get the attention of Estmere and Wazovia on pulling out of this conflict. There may be the need to retrieve a Community of Nations mandate to stabilise the region as per further, for who knows what will creep in once your stabilising force gets out."

Lévesque could only nod. "A state in such turmoil left unchecked could have paramount disastrous consequences; such as a rapid rise in extremism." The President of the Euclean Community tented his fingers and reclined slightly. "Mrs. Walker brings up Sveltlana, but we almost must note; perhaps for later discussion to not conglomerate all together, is the situation of Rhaetia and its current transpirings."

[The Kingdom of Glitter]

"As Jean perfectly said, Nuranz is complicated and if I may be so frank, a mess. The tensions between the Bahian majority and the Badawiyan minority are likely to every cease. Perhaps it is time other options are considered. A two state approach could be a potential solution. Stabilisation is key, as it was already said the fall of Nuranz or any new state to radical elements would reek havoc on the region. Should a two state solution be pursued, I must warn that without careful selection of a unifying figure to lead the new nation the experiment will most certainly fail" Walker said.

The Taoiseach shifted the conversation elsewhere. "Now I would also like to address Mr. Lévesque's concerns regarding Rhaetia. I am of the opinion that the EC and DITO must develop a comprehensive approach that both prevents wide-spread conflict and advances our shared interests in the region. Cooperation with Kaxakh is an option, and Glytter is one of several nations who can act as a middleman on behalf of the Federation if needed".

Katherine McDermott, whose natural inclination was to remain a silent observer, decided to speak briefly.

"Kaxakh cannot afford further upheaval and prolonged conflict within its sphere. If this trend continues, they run the risk of reliving the 90s. We all know how that went for CSS. Silent cooperation with them, conditions permitting, may allow us to reach an agreeable solution".

She paused for a moment before resuming. "I too would like to circle back to Sveltlana. The rise of autocracy and populism in an EC and DITO member state is very alarming. Likewise, anti-Glytteronian, anti-Raglanese, and anti-EC rhetoric by leading members of government are cause for alarm. This is a situation we cannot choose to ignore, as it threatens the very fabric of our institutions".

[Alinora]

Avery found himself being bombarded with subjects - something he expected, being that he was soon to be the President of the Federation. It seemed in times of crisis and uncertainty, many countries turned to the Federation for help and guidance, even though it is often these same countries that criticize Asteria for intervening in international events. He did his best to maintain a calm appearance and responded accordingly.

"For Nuranz, the solution is simpler than many think it is - not simple, mind you, but people definitely over-asses the situation. Take my word for it, as a veteran of the conflict, to say it bluntly, I know more about the topic than most of you here." He paused, looking around at the others. "First and foremost, bringing Asterian troops home is the most important goal for me - too much Asterian blood as soaked Nurani soil. However, we must make sure that we do not allow for a power vacuum to be created that can allow for groups like Al-Haras to emerge again. Also, a major element to ending the War is also in ending the Embargo by the PENB, and there is a way we can satisfy both parties." He shifted his weight in his chair.

"Create a separate Badawiyan state - independent of Nuranz. At this point, the PENB is looking for any excuse to end the Crisis - it's destroying their economy, but they have too much pride to give in, just like we admittedly do. If we allow for a Badawiyan state to be formed, the PENB will drop the embargo, but we must do it smartly. We will have to slowly cycle out Asterian, Estmerish,and Wazovian troops and replace them with CoN Peacekeepers who will make sure terrorist and radical groups cannot rise up again. Of course, the CoN will eventually leave, but I will have lived up to my promise to my country, and to the world. Oil prices will return to normal, the War will be over, and the world economy can once again stabilize."

[The Kingdom of Glitter]

Walker blinked.

She had found it, the typical Asterian arrogance she had been expecting. Of course, she did not fault Avery personally for it. After all, when you are told your whole life that your nation is exceptional in comparison to all others what else could you possibly expect from a person. Walker chose to ignore it, as she had done many times before.

"While democracy is an ideal we all support, and I may go as far to say as love, we must remember it is not easily transferable. Should an autocratic figure arise in Badawiyan-administered Nuranz, as long as he or she respects basic human rights and international law, the East - in my view and the view of many in my administration - would be wise to leave him in place" she replied.

The Taoiseach glanced over to see the frustrated eyes of the High Commissioner. McDermott was ignored, and was put off by it. By nature she cared more about policy than she did anything else, and that would once more be her focus.

The other woman in the room, Carolien Dykstra, had issue with what Walker had said. She was a staunch democratic socialist and was known throughout the Community as an unwavering champion of the Euclean working class. To her, the idea that an autocrat be put in place was not only wrong, but mildly offensive.

"How could we ever allow an oppressive regime to thrive? Democracy is something that must be fostered, not destroyed or perverted by a tin pot dictator" the Speaker said passionately. She was from Kesselbourgh and most importantly, in comparison to the rest of the Eucleans gathered, young. Dykstra was in her mid-40s and had a long political future ahead of her. She was the future of Euclea, and Walker knew it.

"We must not forget that our democratic roots also stem from autocracy. This is the case in much of Euclea, and to a degree the same is true for our friends in the Federation. The development of the state and national identity, whether or not we come to like it, must take precedent over democracy. Without a state and strong, common identity democracy is nothing. Let us look to Sveltlana for a moment" Walker said as she turned her attention to the Asterian President-Elect.

"This is an Eastern nation with a long record of democratic practices. Born out of the fires of the Great War, the United Republic became a bastion of democratic liberalism in the decades since. However, this is changing. It is not to say that the Svelt national identity is weak, when in fact its strength is being exploited. Rather, it is the Sveltlanan state that is crumbling. Democracy there is being 'perverted' in order to push the oppressive agendas of the Reitan Administration. We must work to ensure a situation like this can never occur in Badawiyan-administered Nuranz. The result of a crumbling state in a region prone to radicalism would prove devastating, a safe haven for terrorists would once against flourish. State building is a dangerous game, but it is one we must play to win" she concluded.

The Taoiseach changed her tone. "Given the dangers poised by the lack of a central, unifying figure in Nuranz. Well, Mr. Avery as you yourself said you know the region and conflict better than any of us. Do you have any recommendations as to who could possibly lead a new Badawiyan state?"

She folded her hands and she saw the High Commissioner crack a small smile. Sveltlana was still at the forefront of the discussions while the two Gayls knew Rhaetia would be discussed later. Glytteronian support in a CN mission to Nuranz would be crucial. The island nation had a good international reputation when it came to such missions, and its military was essentially solely used for peacekeeping. Avery wanted to discuss Nuranz in order to secure support, and Walker would play ball. However, he would need to be willing to offer her something in return. What exactly that would be, she would choose to keep to herself for the time being.

[Liecthenbourg]

"Perhaps a solution from the past could represent itself through a manifestation in the future." Lévesque began. "In the days of yonder, upon the culmination of the Great War, we were given a taste of the cup of democracy. But, wisely, the allies did not let this flower bloom without the tending hands of a gardener. Lévesque gestured to Dykstra. "Madam Dykstra speaks truth, we must foster the democracy through tender hands. The only way, perhaps, will need to be through a Community of Nations joint effort in maintaining the democracy; to rebuild the broken infrastructure, to teach, to inspire, to lead. As was done to Gaullica should be done here, the circumstances are of the same variety."

Vallette gave a curt nod, his eyes seemingly gleaming with admiration for what his younger colleague had just uttered. "Sveltlana does pose an interesting - if especially worrying - scenario. This recent exploit of tyranny by majority is barbaric. Not only must we turn to Rhaetia and Nuranz, but attention must be paid to Sveltlana. Its democracy must also be fostered to avoid this fascism-in-the-making and we must deal with the very real possibility that if nothing is done by their parties to stop this rampant extreme far-right nature; the scenario may devolve where we are dealing with a rogue state in Euclea; one against our Community and one against DITO; a horrid prospects for our ideals of freedom, liberty, equality and democracy."

[Alinora]

Avery leaned back in his seat and crossed his legs before continuing. "There are many names we've brought up - politicians, resistance, but for the sake of time, I won't mention most of them because most won't even be considered. General Masood Hashem - member of the Badawiyan Liberation Front that took part in multiple operations and campaigns against Al-Haras long before the Federation even stepped foot in the region. He understands the war, he understands what it means to lead, and better yet, the people revere him as a hero. If anyone can establish the national identity needed to forge a successful state, it is Hashem." Avery laced his fingers together.

"With our support, Hashem can establish a stable state - one that will undoubtedly be recognized by the Federation, and indeed all of DITO. I'm sure the PENB and EC will do the same, but most importantly, the formal recognition by the CN will solidify the legitimacy of Hashem and his State."

[The Kingdom of Glitter]

Ah yes, progress. Avery had seen the light and thus far it seemed a Badawiyan state could survive.

"General Hashem sounds like he would do a fine job. A rebel general with experience fighting governments and radicals alike is the ideal candidate, especially one revered by the people" Taoiseach Walker said before taking a brief pause in order to reflect.

"Due to his ties to the BLF, he should be an agreeable candidate for PENB. His campaigns against Al-Haras will also give the cartel the ability to distance themselves further from the terror group. Ties in the past have been, blurred at best" she finished.

Walker turned her attention to the two Gaullicans. She had listened carefully to both of them. The Taoiseach liked Jean, he was a personal friend and the two often saw eye to eye. Walker did not like Lévesque. She viewed him as an idealist who had lost control of a sink he put on course to sink.

"Mr. Lévesque, we must remember that Gaullica is a unique situation. Gaullica has had a history as a cohesive state with a strong and proud national identity for centuries. This was never the case in Nuranz, the creation of Euclean colonialism and nothing more. Gaullica is homogeneous, Nuranz is violently multi-ethnic. Many noble attempts at state building have failed because we in the East hoped to apply the Gaullican approach to nation building. I must caution that we distance ourselves from this approach, as we too will fail" Walker finished.

She placed her elbows on the arms of her chairs and added that "I do agree with Jean on the matter of Sveltlana. Let it be an example to us and to the world of what must never happen in Nuranz, or elsewhere".

"If you would like, Mr. Avery, I can have my government act as a go between for the Federation and PENB if you would like to gauge their interest. They are looking for a way out, and with ties so heavily strained between the cartel and much of Euclea and the Federation I believe we can ensure tensions do not flare further" the Taoiseach said carefully.

[Alinora]

Avery nodded, then crossed his arms. "We need to be careful - one miscalculation and everything goes down the drain." He sighed deeply and pressed his fingers to his eyes as memories of the war flooded back as they often did, but after a few moments of uneasy silence, shook it off. "I'm sorry," he said, clearing his throat and sitting up.

"We can, of course, discuss Nuranz further at a later time, but for now, we can move on to the topic of Svetlana." Up until then, he was doing his best to avoid the sticky situation, but it was clear that Walker was determined to indulge in the subject. "The White Administration never really gave a clear... opinion on the matter, but I'm sure President White didn't have an issue with the country growing a 'pair of balls' as he would say, and flexing it's muscles to Glytter - which you know he's never liked. I, on the other hand, have given the situation serious thought. The Federation can't outright kick Svetlana out of DITO without majority support of it's members, but if the country continues along this path, a reason won't be too hard to find."

[The Kingdom of Glitter]

"The same could be said for Sveltlana and the Community" Walker agreed. "We have the ability to suspend it and strip it of all of its powers, but we do not have the ability to eject a member state. However, such embarrassment would likely cause them to withdraw on their own".

"I am concerned though. Aggravating Sveltlana further puts all of us on a course for collision. Instead, I believe we must find a way to stop any further damage from being done. Just what, well I do not know" she continued".

"Chancellor Reinfeldt has been quite silent in recent months and our usual regular conversations have been reduced to short, meaningless ones. The opposition in the Riksdag in Sveltlana is promising, and I most certainly wish them luck going forward. I am not sure what we ourselves could do to help them in their quest" the Taoiseach said.

She did of course know that there were some options, all tied to espionage. Sveltlana was playing a dirty game, and in turn so would everyone else. However, she knew she could not sanction it. The Taoiseach hoped to achieve her goals through other means. Just how to achieve them was unknown.

[Alinora]

"It is a complicated situation" Avery concluded, "and it's sad to see a nation like Svetlana turn and go down such a dark path, but we need to be willing to stop it, should things spiral out of control." Avery shifted his weight in his chair. "I would like to move on to the subject of Kaxakh and the CSS, if I may." He paused for a moment, trying to think of a way to begin.

"I'm... uncertain, of what to do, considering I based much of my campaign off the idea of working to ease the tension with Kaxakh, and now they're showing more aggression than they have since the 90s. I hate to say it, but President White's policy of containment may have to carry over if we're to protect Euclea, and the world."

[Liecthenbourg]

It was Lévesque whom replied to Avery's concerns. "Kaxakh sabre-rattling does little beyond irritate the Wazovians and Loṭuyans and the Drôhynians, Prăvkans and Srvots. You speak of Kaxakh containment, but do note that this 'increased aggression' has existed primarily and totally within the confines of their own spheres. A splintering sphere, it seems. Kaxakh's Communist Bubble does not pose the threat it once did, she is on the defensive and has been in the 90s - to overextend herself once more would be to poise itself in the position to recreate the scenarios of the 1990s. It may threaten the nations on her borders, but she seems keenly apt to refrain from international incidents." Lévesque paused for a second and rested his palms on the table. "I can assure you that Kaxakh is no more of the international pariah that it was in the beginning of the 2000s; there is no need to backtrack from your campaign promises, Mr. President-Elect."

[Alinora]

Avery crossed his arms and gazed at Lévesque. "I think you're attempting to minimize the threat Kaxakh poses - whether it is a genuine belief, or denial, I can't tell." Once again, he shifted his weight in his chair, but rested his chin on his fist. "Make no mistake, while it has been a goal of my campaign to work towards mutual cooperation and understanding with Kaxakh, this does not mean that we fail to see how slippery a snake they are. They are opportunists, and must be kept on a short leash."