SECSTATE 129 Enri New-World-Order Peace-Through-Strength Z. Whitbender was the face of Euphemian politics at home and overseas. One of the closer figures of the Camden administration, he'd served in the Oesterran Army prior to the Unification — and had quickly risen to a position of considerable clout and influence in government. The tribulations of the Transatlantic War had elevated the image of a President — even one in office — to one that needed messengers. Where the President was not capable or otherwise too preoccupied to assess things, Whitbender was always present. Today was a little different, of course. Rather, he was handling the negotiations — meeting the President himself would come later for the foreign dignitaries about to arrive in the heart of the sacred city. Past the glass he could see the giant highrises in the far distance, albeit distant from the serene, almost antiquated design of Serondequot.
It was an entirely different environment from the megacity bustle of Torch City, Serondequot almost divinely serene in comparison to the vast, unending concrete jungle that comprised the massive megacity that spanned most of Euphemie's eastern seaboard. It wasn't the worst place for sure, given that the population density of Torch City was fairly; dispersed over its rather vast area, but it was a monumental city. In comparison to the monotonous misery of Datong, flooded with smog and filth, Torch City overall was a monument to Euphemian achievement — humanity's achievement, a melting pot with people from every corner of the globe, perhaps even the most diverse city in the world. Yet Serondequot was, despite being part of Torch City, a much different affair — building regulations ensured that it remained a reminder of Euphemie's origins, albeit glorified and almost romanticized by the neoclassical architecture that comprised much of the city. It was a living, breathing monument to Euphemie — its heritage, its history, and its future.
The holy city of Euphemianism, Serondequot — all across the great city were flags of the Federal States, marble busts of past presidents, regarded now as godlike beings, incarnations of the genderless, transcendental deity that was God. Today he would serve as a tour guide for these dignitaries, as he'd served as a guide for many visitors before. There was much to see in the confines of the city of politicians along the vast avenues and neoclassical marvels of the Euphemian capital. Fern willing, they would achieve a deal mutually beneficial to the Federal States of Euphemie and the nation represented by those about to arrive... a smile made itself apparent on the edge of Whitbender's features as he awaited the foreign aircraft on the tarmac. Beside him were a simple detachment of two Secret Service officials, though Presidential Order elements had already ensured that every vestige of their planned path was entirely secure.
The
KAC-420 that Ceannasai Maura Tsaoir and a few of her closest advisers were flying on, meanwhile, was practically an extension of Kael - the model had been altered to have what amounted to a flying office which was just like the one that Tsaoir would have back on the ground, complete with internet and with similar furniture and decorations. That office was also home to the reports that Tsaoir had been studying over the past days, comparing the three nations that were courting the Federation of Kael - Euphemie, the FRNO, and Sinica. She had continued her studies even as they were on the way into the nation of Euphemie for the third of the three meetings, but she finally lowered the folders when the city came into view. It was worth getting a good look at, from thousands of feet in the sky. They had, after all, modeled their own capital district after Serondequot in hopes of gaining some of the prestige that came with the original city and nation that had produced these designs.
“Would have thought that the world would have fallen over before Kael had a diplomatic meeting here of all places,” Tsaoir remarked to her advisers, referring to the neutrality policies of earlier governments. “But here we are anyway. It’s a nice view, if not a little surreal.”
“Kael is a relevant enough player to take part in international affairs without being exploited,” commented the General of the Capital Guard, Niall McAllen - who was also the main kingmaker in the country, currently. “Holding back from beneficial relations because of the nation’s past position would be foolish.”
“Which is why I decided that a shift in policy would be necessary,” Tsaoir replied with a nod. It was one of the positions that had likely gotten her elected. Then again, there was no official criteria and the electors didn’t reveal how they had voted. Even the leaders of the country themselves didn’t know the margins they had won the election by, nor did they know the criteria the voters had used to select them. The exact reasons that Tsaoir had been picked as an underdog candidate were still perplexing to her. Or rather, they were an unknown completely. The fact of the matter was she didn’t know why she had been picked, other than the support from McAllen. She just knew she wanted to do a damn good job now that she had her hands on the position.
The two conversed a bit more and eventually, they were on their final approach. The aircraft - which was all white in traditional charter colors with the exception of the black text that marked the sides and read ‘Federation of Kael’ - touched down on the runway at President George Charles Fern Airport, and eventually came to a slow stop before taxiing off from the runway to the apron, where the plane would come to a full stop before the doors were opened and Tsaoir and her delegation made their way out.
Greeting them, small groups of approved press attaches aside, was the Euphemian Secretary of State, Enri New-World-Order Peace-Through-Strength Z. Whitbender. Immediately he gave a light cordial wave, his other hand extended for a handshake. He'd seemingly picked his security detail to be an incredibly light one — Tsaoir could see two gentlemen among the press attendees were armed under their suits and wore the almost stereotypical suit and sunglasses that came with the 'Men in Black' myths of the Federal State's high-level security personnel.
"The Federal States offers the Federation of Kael and her dignitaries fair welcome to her capital." He smiled, giving off a generally calm demeanor to his persona. The man seemed to be in his late fifties, early sixties perhaps, his
features having aged relatively well, his hair a kempt silvery grey. Anyone politically active on the foreign side of things could recognize his face. President Camden's third in command, practically, he was among the guiding hands of Euphemian foreign policy, ensuring the Federal States upheld its commitments sensibly, and maintained close ties with its allies, trade partners and friends.
“It’s good to be here. I’ve seen this place in a fair number of photos before. Didn’t think I’d ever get here, growing up in Northgrove,” said Tsaoir, in her usual casual demeanor. Sometimes, she really did act like she was just someone from Northgrove. Someone that had experienced international conflict before and gained experience as a mercenary, yes, but still someone that wasn’t used to the world of politics and formalities. Maybe that was the reason she had been picked. Sometimes, the outsider option was the refreshing one for a world that was used to one thing.
“After two productive visits from other nations to Daenrel, I’m sure things will go just as well now that our nation is the one doing the visiting,” Tsaoir added, offering her hand to Whitbender as her delegation left the plane - her own small security detail wearing more formal outfits which weren’t quite ‘formal’ in the typical sense, even if they were traditional for Kael. In contrast with the black suits, her own men wore blue and white face paint to go along with leather clothing.
"The President is already anticipating your arrival. The State Department, myself, and, quite frankly, even the President expect this will be a fruitful round of negotiations for both our nations." The Euphemian SECSTATE began his way to the
black Pontillac™ Pharaoh that'd been prepared for the drive to Collis Palatium, the palace of the Federal States President. Two more secret service agents were waiting there, opening the passenger doors and respectfully bowing as the group of diplomats boarded. A similarly black
Pontillac™ Sirius II had been arranged for the transit of security personnel, accompanied by two more Sirius IIs that would guard the two-vehicle motorcade front and rear. Seating himself comfortably on the grey leather seating, Whitbender leaned back, making himself comfortable, albeit with a formal composure to his demeanor. "Security's been well-arranged in anticipation for this visit. There'll be no.. unforeseen difficulties while you are in Serondequot." assured the Secretary of State, offering a respectful nod as if to answer unasked questions.
“Hah. On one hand, I’m glad it will be tough for the ALN to try anything - their reach extends beyond what one would expect from a relatively small insurgent movement, seeing one of them here would hardly be surprising. On the other hand, it means I’d lose a chance to shoot the one that tries to try something,” chuckled Tsaoir, referring to the Army of the Liberation of the North, the organization which was responsible for a vast many attacks on Kaelic government officials. Mostly back home, but as Tsaoir had said, their indirect reach was far, and seeing one of their hitmen abroad somewhere wouldn’t be very shocking.
“My superior may be somewhat unprofessional, I have to admit,” McAllen stated, referring to the casual speech and general demeanor of the Ceannasai, who sometimes still seemed like she was just the mercenary soldier that she had been years ago, before the concerns of the position had been pressed on her by her clan and eventually by the nation itself once she was elected. “She may have spent a bit too much time in the field as a mercenary rather than working in the offices as a politician.”
"It is much the same here in the Federal States — the heroes of the past war lead our nation now into the reins of tomorrow." Though his statement was rather ambiguous to his own record, it was more than common knowledge that President Camden had served in the Transatlantic War as a fighter pilot, and scored an extensive record in the process. Almost all Presidents of the Federal States had, indeed, seen a form of military service in the past. It was, by this point, an almost unspoken requirement.
Which was somewhat comforting to know for the leader of Kael. Tsaoir’s past was, after all, sometimes a slight point of controversy back home. Not because Kael didn’t support its military, but because it was wondered by some if she even had enough political experience to lead them into the future, even if her accomplishments in the Zone were respected.
The motorcade had begun its way out of President George Charles Fern Airport, named in honor of the first President of the Federal States of Euphemie, revered now as the forefather of the nation. As their Pontillac passed the various security lines leading out of the airport, they were greeted by a grand limestone statue of George Fern riding atop a horse, a grand sword in one hand and a scale in the other, figuratively representing the 'strength' and 'justice' of his leadership. Fountains and lights illuminated the statue's figure, giving it an aesthetically pleasing look amidst the morning sun's casting of orange into the sky.
"That's the first President, George Fern. In our religion, he is an 'Aspect of God' — a divine incarnation of God in the flesh. It was he who fended against the Victorians and gave hope to the subjugated, colonized peoples of Ophir... the hope that they could become the masters of their Destiny." explained the Secretary of State as they passed the statue by.
Tsaoir stared out the window at the different sights as they went by. Of course, the story of Fern was one that even she was familiar with - the Victorians had also been an enemy of the Kaels, the nation that had conquered their own region and the one that was responsible for the colonization of both halves of the Kaelic lands. That fact was one tie that the Federation already had with Euphemie.
Flanking opposite the grand statue was a sign welcoming visitors into Serondequot. Rather than a sign, it was more akin to a mural, marble depicting a panoramic replica of the capital with the words 'WELCOME TO SERONDEQUOT' etched above in
square capitals. Driving by a few overpasses, the land seemed to slightly decline as they found themselves in a depression lower in altitude than the rest of the relatively flat landscape of Torch City. It was perhaps the most hallowed place in Euphemianism, the rather obviously-named Valley of the Presidents.
"On the way to Collis Palatium, we pass the Valley of the Presidents. Every past Euphemian President that has lived is buried in this district, resting peacefully in their mausoleums." noted the Secretary of State.
They passed a grand structure more akin to a legislative building than a religious site, limestone statues of its eponymous presidents standing boldly before the steps of the sanctified structure. It had much a story to tell, too. Whitbender looked to the building, nodding to himself as if knowingly. "The Fern-Hughes National Cathedral, where our first two Presidents are buried. In the darkest hours of the Transatlantic War, after the island of Etoile Marin was utterly overcome by the Tangaliroan terror bombings, its people had scattered in a terrible exodus. President Neworder welcomed them with open arms, consecrating the Cathedral a site not only for Euphemianists, but for Polarists seeking a new home."
It did seem to be a site of religious significance, given the sheer amount of pilgrims that walked about the grand plaza park situated before the grand structure. At the peak of the Cathedral's dome was a marble depiction of President Fern, clad in a robe as he held high the sun symbol — the symbol seen on the Euphemian flag.
“Impressive,” Tsaoir said, her mind traveling back to the capital district in Daernel, which was modeled after the most notable parts of this city. However, she was able to see now that the real thing was better constructed, more impressive and well put together - she had noticed certain details that were lacking from Kael’s own capital, better and more varied materials and more attention to detail.
Next to grace the diplomatic motorcade was the Langdon-Ackerman National Cathedral, situated symmetrically and exactly opposite to the Fern-Hughes National Cathedral. Its grand marble structure was capped by a dome layered in 14 karat diamond, the precipices of the structure arranged sharply and roughly, almost akin to the decks of a vessel of war — as if to symbolize the struggle, conflict and greatness of Langdon's term.
"This Cathedral is built in honor of James Langdon and his successor, Howard Ackerman. They guided Euphemie through the Calamity, and the Euphemian Civil War which followed. It was in their tenure that the religious revival that brought about the Presidential Pantheon came about." noted Whitbender as they passed the structure by.
The religion that the Cathedral was built for was an exotic one to the Kaelic delegation - the Kaels were a mix of areligious types, Stigmatic Ourielists, and followers of more local religions which could be considered pagan to some extent, even if most of them had been modernized and adapted for the current day. Euphemianismm was a different thing altogether, and Tsaoir and the others generally had a neutral stance on it. They didn’t practice it - it wouldn’t make sense for a nation unrelated to Euphemie to follow it, anyway - but they did have to admit it was interesting in a certain, foreign way. After all, in Kael, there were many revered men and women… But not ones that were looked up to as gods. Or as the incarnation of god.
The avenue transitioned from asphalt to smoothened quartzite brick, the motorcade approaching a grand structure that towered above the group of vehicles. It was an arch of limestone and cobblestone composite, grandiose murals on the sides depicting patriotic portrayals of Euphemian soldiers — fighting on the shores of Gallia and Fuxia in ancient wars long predating the Calamity itself.
This triumphal arch seemed a tribute — not only to the men and women who'd fought and died for the armed services, but to all citizens of the Federal States, patriots by blood. The sight left the Secretary of State in an almost solemn silence for a brief moment, before he cleared his throat and nodded. "..this is the Arch of the Republic, dedicated to the Armed Forces and all citizens of the Federal States. It was commissioned to emulate a similar Gallian design, albeit much larger."
As they neared the triumphal arch further, the words
'PEACE IS OUR PROFESSION' welcoming them as they passed it by. Almost in sync with their passing through of the structure, a flight of F/A-130 Chiangshi aircraft soared past, symbolizing the close vigilance by which the capital was guarded.
It also symbolized where Euphemie was compared to Kael. They had their own program that was supposed to produce a fighter comparable to the Chiangshi in terms of capability. However, it was noticeably less successful than the Chiangshi program. Where the Chiangshi had went on to become a successful fighter, the Specter was grounded completely at the time of the visit, because of the many technical problems with it. Perhaps, a potential partnership with the FSE would result in the development of the struggling project being saved by allied help and investment.
The road ahead was flanked largely by cherry trees, which beautifully complemented the orange and pink hues scattered about the sky with the morning sun ascendant to the east. "Ahead of us is the tomb of President Neworder, perhaps one of the greatest men to live in the past century. It was he who forged the more perfect union we live in today." noted the Secretary of State.
Proudly standing at the end of the avenue was Neworder's Mausoleum, which seemed to have about it the most pilgrims, carrying about flags and praying in the presence of the grand structure. Some brought their copies of the Euphemian sacred texts: the Constitution, to read at the steps of the holy site. Indeed, it was a place for many to remember a man who not only defeated the global menace that was Tangaliro, but unified Euphemie with its western brethren, Oesterra, securing a more perfect union and affirming Euphemie's role on the global stage. For many the memory of the Aspect of God's peaceful passing was a solemn one, and a real one above all. He was a man who garnered the respect and adoration of not only Euphemianists, but Atomicists and Consumerists alike — the former for his responsible handling of the Atom, the latter for his vast wealth. Regardless of faith, race, or creed, Neworder was a man who seemed to command respect from almost every Euphemian kneeling before the grand mausoleum's steps.
The mausoleum was one that Tsaoir recognized immediately. She wasn’t a follower of any of the local religions but the Transatlantic War was something that even neutral nations who hadn’t been involved were quite familiar with the effects of the conflict on the rest of the world. Seeing the mausoleum of one of the men who had been the most involved in ensuring that the war turned out the way it did was… Somewhat surreal. Especially as the Euphemian victory had also guaranteed that Kael wouldn’t be pulled into a conflict on Ophir.
Adjacent to the grand mausoleum was a memorial dedicated to the tens of thousands of men and women who'd given their lives in the name of the Federal States. It was situated across a vast reflecting pool complete with fountains, ornately decorated at its sides by beautiful cherry trees. As they passed the memorial, gaining a view of its steps, they were greeted by a grand statue within the chamber, depicting a soldier, a marine, a pilot and a sailor — all standing victorious atop the shattered remains of a Tangaliroan dragon. Indeed, the Fox had overcome the Dragon three decades ago. At the base of the pedestal were inscribed the words 'THEY TOILED THAT WE MAY DREAM', poetically symbolic of the patriotic men and women who'd given their lives in the name of the Federal States during the war.
"Many Euphemians died in the terrible tribulations of the Transatlantic War. This memorial is dedicated to them... it's said many of the stones used to make it were laid by President Neworder himself." noted Whitbender.
“Your former leader is one that’s well respected in Kael. I’m sure we would’ve had our own conflict with the far east had the result in the Transatlantic War been different,” remarked Tsaoir.
"Indeed." Nodded the Secretary of State. Symmetrically opposite to Neworder's mausoleum, just past the Transatlantic War memorial was that of an almost equally great man, Alexander Strickland — Neworder's successor. "Strickland. He'd continued his predecessor's policies and maintained Euphemie's dominance on the world stage, but on new century's eve, an assassin took his life. Defiantly his towering mausoleum stands against any who would do our nation harm."
Towering above the other mausoleums was Strickland's own, its almost modernist touch to the structure depicting the utopian, almost futuristic view of Euphemie's prosperity after the war — something Strickland himself would've surely wished for the Federal States, too. As they passed it, a flight of Hierofalcons soared past, indicating furthermore just how protected the capital was from threats both internal and external.
They passed a smaller triumphal gate, indicating entry into another part of the Valley of Presidents. The words, seemingly a quote by Strickland, given his name was inscribed on the bottom right of it:
THERE ARE SOME WHO'VE FORGOTTEN WHY WE HAVE A MILITARY. IT IS NOT TO PROMOTE WAR, BUT TO BE PREPARED FOR PEACE.
Greeting them on a roundabout was a rather simple statue of much more primitive soldiers — perhaps almost a half-millennia past. "Of course, we do not forget our ancient veterans. This monument is dedicated to the men who fought and died in the First Alvimian-Euphemian War."
They were seemingly entering a more governmental quarter, passing the outer reaches of the Valley. Various tall structures greeted them, their architecture an interesting matter to behold. Indeed, it was a sight to be taken aback by — towering at 176.6 metres (to the date of Euphemian independence) was the National Defense Pyramid, a great black structure tipped by a grand lamp chamber that cast a beam of pure light skyward into the heavens. It was truly symbolic of Euphemian achievement, housing the inner neurons of the Federal States' military and defense apparatus.
"The National Defense Pyramid. Heart of our nation's military. It's among the Great Pyramids of Euphemie... there are three more." Whitbender looked on at the beam glimmering upward, as if to admire it.
“You do know how to build things around here, that’s for sure,” Tsaoir said with a chuckle, looking up at the light which was headed into the sky. She had the feeling that the Kaelic military would have constructed something like this… If they had been granted the funding and if they had the engineers to make it possible.
The next pyramid to greet them, past an almost crystalline-clear canal that glimmered in the morning's light, was a much more ominous one. Not as tall as the National Defense Pyramid, it compensated for its lack of flashy lights and grand skyward beams in its foreboding figure.
The SECSTATE took note of this, looking to the structure as they passed it by, being shadowed by its figure as they drove adjacent to the pyramid. "CBI headquarters. One of the nerve centers of Euphemie's intelligence community."
These types of buildings weren’t as unfamiliar for the delegation from Kael, which had been around the intelligence community quite a lot by now, with McAllen being from the Capital Guard - the organization which was responsible for operating the intelligence agencies of Kael, and Tsaoir herself having spent significant time around the organization. However, the pyramids here were obviously flashier than the rather plain but still, interestingly enough, neoclassical buildings of the Capital Guard HQ.
They were getting closer to Collis Palatium, though there were two more pyramids yet for them to behold on the way there. The next one did eventually come, differing greatly in structure to the previous two. The Internal Security Bureau building was far more cubicle, perhaps even vaguely neobrutalist in comparison to the other vaguely postmodern pyramid-structures.
The Internal Security Bureau were the Federal States' prime form of investigating and handling crime and conducting counterterrorism, many agents lurking outside the building presumably on-duty due to the motorcade, their signature blue jacket uniforms instantly recognizeable, especially moreso if one had watched a few crime thrillers.
It was unmistakeable, to which Whitbender needed not even utter a word as they passed it by.
The agents were recognizable to Tsaoir and her group also, partly because of her own country’s primary intelligence service - the KIB, which was known for its green jackets rather than blue jackets. Still, the Euphemian agents looked familiar enough. It was a bit strange seeing them in person rather than in some show that had been imported and broadcast on Kaelic networks.
Past a rather lengthy stretch of avenue flanked at both sides by towering
wawona trees, they were greeted by the final pyramid on the way to Collis Palatium: the headquarters of the Presidential Order of Patriotism. The mysterious paramilitary organization answered only to the President of the Federal States himself, and were involved in situations where it was otherwise unscrupulous for the Bureau or special forces. Their Action Branch was much akin to a foreign legion of sorts to the Federal States, welcoming any and all who could take the oath and pledge their life to the President — after a plethora of background checks, of course.
Standing guard outside the Pyramid were men and women of every race, color, and creed — ever-indicative of the Presidential Order's diversity.
Tsaoir supposed it reminded her of the Capital Guard, the organization that she herself had worked with for a time and that her top adviser and confidant was from, but the Presidential Order took a less open role and was more shrouded in society than the Kaelic Capital Guard was - the latter didn’t shy away from acknowledging its role as kingmaker.
Finally they were on approach, Collis Palatium within view, situated directly opposite to the
Capitol Building. The motorcade gradually slowed down as they approached the building, little more than a grand palace befitting the borderline divine role of President of the Federal States. True to its name, it was situated on a slight hill that gave them a direct view of the Capitol Building situated directly opposite to them with perfect symmetry.
The fence of the palace was made of solid gold, two secret service officers granting them access past the security kiosks. Situated opposite to the palace itself was a statue upon a fountain, depicting a nude woman representing the 'Nine-Tailed Fox' of Euphemian myth comprised of pure 18 karat diamond, holding a sword upward into the air representative of Euphemie's revolutionary secession from the Victorian Empire. Flanking this beautiful nude statues were depictions of cherubs, equally ornate and covered in diamonds as they held up depictions of the Bill of Rights and the Constitution respectively.
Towering above the palace was the flag of the Federal States, flying gracefully in the wind as the morningsun rose behind it. Collis Palatium was positioned so that the sun rose directly behind it, symbolizing Euphemie being the true land upon which the sun never set.
"Welcome to Collis Palatium." The doors were opened for them by Secret Service agents, Whitbender stepping out upon the meticulously-cleaned walkway of pure marble that led forth into the building. Towering atop a pedestal was a limestone statue of President Neworder, clasping in his hands a depiction of the Atom — symbolizing furthermore Euphemie's triumph in the second nuclear holocaust to plague Tsion, along with his mastery in 'kicking Tangaliroan ass'.
“It’s been an interesting ride so far. I’m sure the inside of this place will be just as impressive as what we’ve seen so far,” Tsaoir said, stepping out along with McAllen and looking to the steps of the building, her eyes traveling up to the pedestal.
Walking forth with the secret service detail as security, they were graced by a sight to behold as they entered the first grand chamber of the palace.
Paintings across the ceiling depicted scenes of Presidential elections, wars, nuclear hellfire, the great Torch City metropolis, and various scenes depicting Euphemian history. The room was designed with acoustics in mind as well,
ancient pre-Calamity Euphemian music playing from the variety of 14 karat gold synthesizers and automated instruments arranged about corners of the room. The way to the Presidential Office was straight ahead, down this grand chamber flanked by marble busts of every Euphemian president to date, the
Rapture columns separating each marble bust decorated by the figures of Euphemian soldiers,
more nude statues, and various paintings along the walls. One such
painting situated directly at the chamber's end, depicted President Neworder bearing Angelic wings as he slayed the final leader of Tangaliro, Clayton, portrayed in a metaphorically and almost stereotypically demonic form. Nearing the multi-chamber that would lead into the Presidential Office, the diplomatic entourage could see at both sides two statues depicting holy Euphemian pasttimes — to their left, a depiction of the holy sport of
Gridiron, diamond-covered football in one of the marble statues' hands... and to their right a depiction of the sacred process of voting. The cornerstones of Euphemian culture, truly.
Tsaoir looked through the different sights and listened to the sounds silently. There was something of a cultural difference here, the Kaels were proud of their culture but they had a way of showing it off that was… Different. They tended to be a bit more subtle, and while wealth was important, at its core, their boasting was often more about
power, political or otherwise, than it was about great accomplishments or great wealth. Still, she had to admit it was quite impressive.
In the multichamber, where various other rooms and corridors pertaining to Collis Palatium met, lay the grand ornate door to the Presidential Office, glittering with diamonds and solid gold. Inscribed upon the doors in small etched text was the Constitution, and along the doorframe were etched the first few hundred lines of code comprising President Langdon's fabled grand stash of cryptocurrency.
Whitbender paused then, allowing their security detail to open the doors — and there they were graced by the surprisingly simple confines of the Presidential Office. Yet upon his leather chair the President was akin to a deity, especially to the Euphemian people. Flanking him at both sides were marble statues of Neworder and Lazarus, perhaps the man's own favorite Presidents.
"Ah, I see you've all arrived. Hope the trip was all right."
POTFS 104 Dean Accounts-Receivable Credit Dollar Enterprise J. Camden rose from his chair to greet the new visitors, evidently pleased at their timely arrival. He was as most men in his post were — middle-aged war veterans — though his aura seemed to command respect from his subordinates. The President was quick to shake Whitbender's hand, before offering a hand to his new guests.
“There was quite a lot to see on the way over,” nodded Tsaoir, shaking Camden’s hand and bowing slightly. McAllen did the same - and there was a bit of a contrast between both of the Kaelic representatives in their demeanor and attire, Tsaoir looking and acting like the more casual one and wearing a plain shirt and skirt, while McAllen was in military uniform and moved and acted accordingly.
Seating himself opposite to Whitbender, President Camden was quick to pour the group four glasses of Augustan whiskey, situating the glasses in accordance with the seating arrangement. "Please, have a seat." He heartily offered — but it seemed he was already inclined on talking business, given his almost anticipatory posture.
The group sat down, and Tsaoir drank from the whiskey immediately while her partner from the Capital Guard took the glass but didn’t quite drink much. It was still too early in the negotiations for that, and as expected, McAllen was the more cautious one in that regard. “It’s nice to sit down with another leader that has proper taste in… Refreshments,” Tsaoir stated.
"Of course," Camden reclined back, chuckling as he took a sip of whiskey. "The Federal States of Euphemie and the Federation of Kael have an auspicious favor, given my Administration's unending aspiration that the nations of this great continent we call Ophir. I'm no faithful man, believe it or not— but I do believe a divine force set this continent aside for people of every race, religion, calling and creed to fulfill their dreams... and so we're all here today. I've had a dossier prepared for today to personally assess mutually-beneficial negotiations between our two states, and I'm certain it can be of significant, mutual benefit to both the Federal States and the Federation of Kael." It was almost fascinating that the President, the peak of the religious hierarchy of the Federal States, wasn't very religious himself. Maybe that came naturally from being what society equated to being 'close to God'.
“We’ve already done some of our own research and have some ideas about where this deal might take both countries, if it’s made,” said McAllen. Both he and Tsaoir had looked after pages and pages of raw data, as well as reports from various diplomats within Kael, each one suggesting different things to push for or to be wary of in negotiations. “But as the visitors, we’ll wait and see what you would like to offer before going into our own plans.”
"Of course. Whitbender," He glanced over to the Secretary of State, who produced an avila folder from his suit and set it down on the table, opening it. Within the folder was a
document seeming to outline Euphemian diplomatic goals with the Federation of Kael.
"The Tradewinds Initiative," began the Secretary of State. "In it are outlined proposals and their benefits, I'll allow you to review them accordingly."
Tsaoir took the folder first, looking it over. Some of it was what they had expected, other parts were more unexpected, but overall, it looked acceptable to her. She passed it over to McAllen, who also took a look, before offering some opinions. “I think that the trade opportunities listed here look good - particularly in the fields of IT and aerospace. I’m sure you’ve realized by now that Kael is moving to a high tech economy, one which could work alongside the FSE’s,” he stated, moving on to one of the other sections. “And while I don’t think Kael itself is in much danger of a war in the coming years… I could see various ways which a partnership in defense would be useful. For both countries, rather than just the one that would be under Euphemian protection. You may or may not know this but our soldiers are, for lack of a better term, itching to
do something in the world rather than sitting around and waiting for the next civil conflict, or for some deterioration with Hesperia or Floriana. We believe that based on our current standing in the world, this goal of
doing something would be better accomplished alongside… Allies rather than by ourselves.”
"Certainly," Camden took another sip of whiskey, speaking up in the SECSTATE's stead. Setting the glass down, he chimed in. "Euphemie stands at a crossroads upon which her future — her
destiny, even — lies. In this day and age, we require friends and allies: equals together with which we will tread forth into a brave new future. I see in your nation not numerical profit margins as the Sinicans do, or bulwarks against enemy influence as the North Ophirics do. I see in our bilateral relationship, rather, a benefit for both our nations. I am well aware of the Federation's own military aspirations, and I can't help but agree with you. The Federal States needs strategic partners in the southern hemisphere, now more than ever. We've all seen the news of what's going on down there: war, genocide.. if we are to prosper, we must look outwardly upon Ophir and process the weight of the situation. South Ophir is a powder keg... and at any moment, the Velezians, the Florians, the Canguarians, the Alvimians — stand ever-closer to setting it off. This great continent was largely spared the horrors of the Calamity and the Transatlantic War, yes, and I do believe a responsibility exists between both our nations, for our interests and the interests of millions of innocent lives across the continent, to prevent an 'Ophiric Calamity'. Now, this might sound wildly exaggerated, of course... but that is a worst-case scenario given the nuclear... pursuit of the Duchy of Canguari, along with Velezia's own nuclear predisposition..."
Camden took a well-timed pause to finish off his glass of whiskey. "But this is not to say that I merely perceive your nation to be a 'strategic partner'. To leave it at that would be simple-minded — where the Sinicans stop their naive rhetoric I begin my own. I intend to, by all means, act in the benefit of both our nations — I am more than aware of your nation's technological aspirations. Euphemie's involvement with military research and development and joint military projects with its allies and friends abroad have been more than fruitful, be it Zachod, Fuxia or North Ophir. We would also be willing to... act in your Federation's benefit in the southern hemisphere. I'm more than informed on the current state of affairs regarding Floriana. Of course, hearing can be worth much more than knowing... so I'm all ears about what you want from
us — because the Federal States of Euphemie has plenty to offer its Ophiric friends in turn for mutually-beneficial negotiations."
“Personally I don’t think the next flashpoint is going to come from Velezia or Canguari but from Floriana - and I say this as someone that’s fought on the ground in the Zone for years. I’ve been around all of the countries there although I have to admit I’m slightly biased on the issue. My clan’s private military company was formerly the primary one working with the Canguarian government. I could say that it was a home to me for some time, but that also means I have a decent feel for the politics of the area and I think I know a bit more about the current situation than someone that might have just showed up for a year or two as a mercenary or an envoy without really staying and getting a feel for the area itself,” said Tsaoir, sitting back and lowering her glass. “The fact of the matter is that the event that may have escalated things most recently, the nuclear attack, seemingly only happened in the first place because Floriana overstepped the normal boundaries of a low intensity conflict such as the one in the Zone and pushed too far. I believe that the nuclear attack was an action taken in self defense by a nation that couldn’t protect itself by traditional means.”
She continued. “Now, it’s no secret that the Federation has supported Canguari to some extent - we’ve sold them one of the more recent editions of the Super Phantasm to help replace some of their aging J-5s. Further deals might be on the table. I believe that our nation may be pulled into things further going forward when you consider that there is a… border tension with Floriana. Our country is surrounded by rivals to an extent, but Floriana is one that boxes us in on two sides - they control one side of the straits to our east, with the other side being controlled by Hesperia, and they hold the islands to our south. Which many in our country and our government consider a problem. That geographical tension because of those islands, it’s existed for a long time. The fact that trade is one of the cornerstones of our country doesn’t aid in that. And at some point, it’s going to boil over, you know? Because they might not like us supporting our ally, especially if some of the deliveries that I mention happen to cut over their own territory. And while our nation is… not the most prepared in the world at the moment, I can say that there will be hell to pay if they respond by closing their part of the strait or attempting to use their geographic position to box us out.”
Camden paused, as if to process her words. Something lingered on him, which had left him solemn for a good few seconds. Gesturing auxiliary staff out of the room to ensure the discreet nature of his next words, he continued once the ornate gold doors had closed once more. "I fought in the Transatlantic War, ma'am. Hundreds of millions perished in atomic hellfire because a nation could not swallow their pride. That is not to say, however, that I do not see eye-to-eye with you on Floriana. Conflict resolution is a noble goal for any nation and their people, and that is the ambition of Euphemie in the southern hemisphere. The first step towards the nuclear disarmament of a state that may be interpreted as
rogue ... is the resolution of present conflict. And to that end,"
Evidently the President wouldn't utter words that damning if they were being monitored — not that there was any danger from within the office itself. SECSTATE Whitbender interpreted the President's quick sign language accordingly, continuing in his stead. "Your nation's intentions to create disrupt Floriana's plans would, in fact, be beneficial towards peace in the Zone. It creates an additional degree of pressure that urges the current sides involved to come to the negotiating table. Kael's ambitions towards territorial self-defense work fairly well with the Federal States' ambitions towards peace in the Zone."
“I don’t mean to dismiss your military experience. I simply mean to say that I’ve been
in the Zone itself and have direct ties to one of the main factions involved, while having fought with the others. It adds a certain level of familiarity that’s hard to be gained just by reading reports, especially in a rather… Lawless and untamed area where what you see on the internet might not be the truth of the matter. As you’ve said, our goals are goals of peace - of protecting our maritime borders and opening a path to Miramar, while also helping to preserve the independence of Canguari against relentless Florianan aggression,” Tsaoir stated. “I’ve already talked quite a bit with officials from the Imperial Army about the best plan of action in this case, and we’ve come to a simple conclusion. Floriana needs to be brought to its knees within the first week of the war to gain the outcome that we want with the resources that we have, as well as the fractured military which we possess… One which has a number of non state actors pulling it in different directions as well as a navy which isn’t set up for offensive action against Floriana. This could be done in a variety of ways. Personally, I buy into the idea of runway and harbor strikes during the night to cripple Floriana’s chances of counter attacking before they are able to do so. But, going into such a plan without an ally capable of putting on more pressure, of causing the enemy to snap and break before they can muster the strength to punch back, is a risky idea, yes?”
The Secretary of State continued on Camden's behalf. "Of course it is. The President does not speak lightly when he speaks of aggressive action — he has witnessed the weight of bloodshed unimaginable in this modern, civilized age. Euphemie can provide the backing Sinica cannot. What Sinica requires three weeks to fulfill we can fulfill in three
days — that is to say, the age-old art of diplomacy paired with the eloquence of naval posturing. Why rely on a second-rate military halfway across Tsion that can hardly grasp the nature of cultures other than their own? The President offers his backing as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces," He said, reading the President's sign language, before continuing. "and I offer my word as Euphemian Secretary of State."
“Then we find ourselves close to an agreement,” Tsaoir said with a smile - or maybe it was a smirk - on her face. Although, the negotiations weren’t over just yet. There was still a thing or two that was yet to come up, something that based on the priorities of the nation of Kael itself, was rather important. “And I assume the FSE will also be willing to take Kael on as a partner in development in this field? I believe another thing that Euphemie may be familiar with is the military industrial complex, and I’m not going to lie and say that it doesn’t affect foreign policy for Kael. Because it does. But really, it’s not necessarily a bad thing… Just something that’s a part of the national culture. And because of it, I’m going to have a hard time going home without some promises to make towards the domestic arms industry that their projects will benefit from this but won’t… Be challenged too much by any changes in foreign policy.”
"I intend not foreign competition of domestic industry," Camden spoke up once more, the subject matter evidently becoming a less sensitive one. "The contrary. While the Sinicans and North Ophirics offer proposals that will serve only to harm the ingenuity and insult the intelligence of your nation's proud military industries, I propose cooperation. It is.. unfortunate that the Sinicans' foreign affairs department cannot comprehend the asymmetrical,
ornate nature of Kaelic internal politics. Put simply, the nature of your state has many similarities to our own — something that foreign speculators constantly try and fail to understand in depth." Pausing again, he continued. "—anyways. Military cooperation, big word: our corporations, your corporations... working together on the development and general advancement of Kael's budding field of military development."
“I think the companies back home will be happy to hear that someone isn’t going to come in and flood the market with replacements - of either the cheaper to buy and operate kind, or the ‘too advanced for the competition’ kind. And I think that, with this development, I won’t have to worry about my own life due to the nature of how these things tend to work. Piss off the wrong person, or people, and even the Ceannasai has something to be afraid of,” said Tsaoir. “I believe that, overall, these terms are agreeable. We could have this deal signed tonight if both parties believe that nothing more should be added or changed…”
"Certainly." Camden nodded, smiling as he poured himself another glass' worth of whiskey. "I've always been one to.. get to the point, so to speak. My mere interest is to see what else the Federal States of Euphemie has to offer the Federation of Kael before we get to signatures."
“Mainly things that are close to what we’ve already talked about. The tech sector is an area where Kael can be world class, and I believe that a closer partnership here would both benefit Kael and benefit Euphemian companies who choose to work with our nation. And of course, the advancement of technology is something which helps the entire world. Technology is also one of the main obstacles in the military field for the development of our fourteenth generation fighter, the Specter, which is plagued with problems relating to the avionics as well as the engines. I don’t know how interested Euphemie would be in the Specter project, but involvement in it is something on the table. I know it’d win me a hell of a lot of points back home to get things moving more than they have been, with that project. There’s a chance for investments to happen across borders, additionally, going back to what I said about technology and the tech industry growing out of Daernel, but it doesn’t just extend to technology. We have a number of growing fields including airlines, which should see skyrocketing profits if more routes with the FSE and with the far east are established, and in the field of defense, I believe Kael has one of the most unique systems in that there can be little distinction between ‘official’ soldiers and mercenary ones. I’m not saying that the FSE might want to invest in this field for things that it doesn’t want to jump into with full force, but I am saying not many countries are able to offer… Services as
professional as our own in that area,” Tsaoir continued, offering a shrug.
"I'm certain that can be worked out. The involvement of big names like Lockreed-Eden, McLellan-Kuron, Federal Atomics... all surefire ways to remind concerned investors of the age-old phrase, 'the show must go on', and reestablish confidence in the project after the last incident. Which contractors are sought for partnership on these projects are entirely up to Kaelic companies, of course. It was exactly what I had in mind when I considered the matter of military cooperation in the field of development." Camden relaxed, taking another sip of whiskey as his attention returned to the document on the table. "Then I've got no issues with this deal. I'm sure it can be signed by tonight. To Ophiric prosperity," Raising his glass, he offered his Kaelic counterparts a toast, the Secretary of State promptly raising his glass as well.
Tsaoir and McAllen both raised their glasses. The deal was done, with both sides unanimously agreeing that it was good. And both Tsaoir and McAllen felt that this arrangement could boost their own political power, which interestingly enough, wasn’t something that they aimed to do out of selfishness. No, they aimed to establish themselves in a way that others in the top positions in Kael hadn’t managed to do in… Many years. Foreign help was one way of bringing stability to the nation, and stability was also something that had been lacking as well as a strong leader. If no one else was going to chase after that help… Tsaoir was glad to be the one to do so, and to secure them help that might just see the end of a border conflict that had lasted for at least a hundred years, as well as their advancement into the future.
Yes, this was a pretty decent way to establish her reign. Even if it wouldn’t win the ‘deep state candidate’ any favors with her rivals not in the corporate realm, but in the political one.
As for Camden and Whitbender, it was further demonstration to their own affinities towards international diplomacy — both of the gentlemen were dealmakers at heart, and sought not to exploit their neighbors and trade partners as assets in some game of dominoes, but pursue bilateral relations as equals. Yet for Camden, the sheer elegance and brilliance of his Secretary of State's proposal was impressive — he couldn't help but fancy the man a potential political ally beyond his role as Secretary of State.