11-28-2021, 08:45 PM
(Joint post with Eiria)
Office of the Golden Chamber, Palace of Flowers
The Attendant to the Empress hastily looked up a link, then started a video call for her mistress. Calhualyana had read a full report on the explosion at the warehouse in Desmarais, and was icily sitting at her royal desk waiting. The Attendant knew better than to keep the Empress waiting in such a mood. When the line connected to the office of Sarah Berenstein, the Attendant stated that the Empress wished to speak with all three Aurian coup leaders. Urgently.
Berenstein wasted no time, quickly calling the King and General Michelin. She thought about inviting Lautrec and Gerand, but decided against it. Gerand is already busy with some task for Cordonnier, and Lautrec would only piss people off. We really don't need that. She put on a diplomatic smile as the two gentlemen joined the meeting, waiting for the empress to join as well.
When the other three joined the meeting, Calhualyana also adopted a diplomatic smile. There was nothing else jovial about her expression, however. One look at her eyes made that clear. “Good morning. Thank you all for taking the time to speak with me. I know you must all be very busy at the moment,” the Empress began.
The Aurians nodded, their nervousness palpable. Berenstein spoke first, earning a glare from the King. "Given the growing wall of papers on my desk, I would say we are quite busy. No matter. How may we be of assistance?" She attempted to seem relieved and joking, but the feeling didn't meet her eyes. I don't think this'll end well...
"I was contacting all of you to discuss the security situation in Auria at the moment, and how we might proceed from here to stabilize the situation. The recent incident in Desmarais has raised concerns among my council, as well as our General Staff and our intelligence community. It appears indicative of a deteriorating relationship between your government and the people. CSSC has begun moving its forces into the cities, as you are no doubt aware, to assist with maintaining order. But it seems prudent to discuss what your plans are for a more permanent solution,” Calhualyana said.
King Andrew took over, a sense of regality present in his speech. "Ah, of course. And as you are no doubt aware, our Garda Nacōnals recruiting programs have greatly increased our forces. Our imposed curfews should greatly reduce any potential domestic unrest, and with our expanded forces, such curfews should be easily enforceable. However..." He spoke quickly, seeming to segue from one topic to another in a single heartbeat. "My more immediate concern is the blockade of our shores, and our current resource scarcity. And without a navy at my disposal, I must request help from you, our faithful ally. We require your help, your majesty."
Calhualyana kept the smile on her face, all the while wondering just what kind of styrofoam or paper was occupying King Andrew’s cranium in place of a brain. “Xiomera will be happy to increase the amount of goods and resources we provide to Auria, through the supply runs we are currently performing to avoid the blockade. We can also assist with increasing domestic production. But challenging the blockade at this time will certainly lead to war - a war that Auria is not capable of winning. We are pleased to be your….ally,” the Empress said, letting the slight hesitation make it clear exactly what she considered the relationship to be. “But challenging the blockade at this time would be against both my own assessment of the situation, and that of my advisors.”
Cordonnier kept his salesman smile on, adjusting his suit for the camera. "Ah, of course. My apologies, I may have misphrased things. I did not mean to overexaggerate the strength of the Xiomeran navy, or imply that your advisors would have recommended such a brazen course of action. And we will happily receive any additional resources you can generously provide for Auria. The CSSC forces have already been invaluable to our security efforts. You are a gracious ally, that's for certain."
Calhualyana nodded politely in response. "I am glad you feel that way," she said, choosing to let the King's remark about the strength of the Imperial Navy slide. "We also believe that we need closer coordination between our governments as to how we respond to the spikes of unrest taking place. My advisors and I believe that an approach that relies solely on increased security and detention of your citizens will prove counter-productive. It is essential that you also consider ways to win your people over to your side. One way we believe you should consider is to turn their attention away from the internal issues of supply and demand in Auria right now, and turn their attention instead to who is causing those issues. Right now, they blame you. But you should instead work to shift their blame to Eiria, Lauchenoiria and Milintica - the meddling outsiders who have chosen to deprive your people. You cannot arrest your way out of this crisis alone. But giving people an enemy to focus on, and showing them they are engaged in a great struggle for independence from such foreign meddling - that is something that you should implement as soon as possible."
The Empress knew very well how effective such a strategy could be - she had used that exact strategy to very good effect to gain power in Xiomera, after all.
"Agreed. We employed a similar strategy to liberate Auria in the first place. Public perception is an awfully sharp weapon." The King had a strong glint in his eye, and he seemed to defer the floor to his fellow Aurians. Sarah picked up the conversation. "We have our Minister of Information, Jonothan Gerand, working very hard to control our public broadcasts. He's very popular, and a very popular media celebrity. He's an indisposable asset, especially during these stressful times."
"Excellent. You may want to consider offering loyal citizens incentives for their support, as we do. The carrot is often more productive than the stick," Cahualyana replied. "As for security.....the recent destruction of our donated equipment and supplies in Desmarais is unfortunate. Perhaps you, or General Michelin, could enlighten me as to what measures are being undertaken to ensure such an event does not occur again."
Michelin, who had been mostly silent until this point, cleared his throat. "Our security around our military bases has been doubled, with posts at gateways being manned by more senior, experienced soldiers. Officers have been distributed to each new Garda company, and each group's loyalty is carefully monitored. We are working on getting some better forms of secure identification, so any person attempting to disguise as a soldier could be found out quickly. Currently, the protection of our weapons is our first priority. We cannot afford to lose more of our resources."
"I would be inclined to agree," Calhualyana replied. "We have no problem with supplying those resources, but would prefer not to see them wasted. We believe it prudent that CSSC forces begin supplementing your security forces, both at military installations and checkpoints, and at key government facilities. As a precautionary measure, of course."
In truth, CSSC had already begun doing that in the wake of Desmarais, but Calhualyana wanted to make it official. Her tone of voice and phrasing also made it clear that, for her, this was not a request.
"Of course. We look forward to working further with them." The General said, appearing neutral on demeanor. Berenstein also attempted to maintain her expression, but that last "recommendation" had her slightly unnerved. "Anyways, I was slightly concerned about our enemies organizing their forces into a singular military. Now they pose a unified threat, or at least, more of a unified threat."
"Perhaps, but they are only unified to a point. Lauchenoiria is still a feeble state at best, and it is well-known that they have issues with Milintica," the Empress said. She thought back to the confrontation between Neina Arana and Sandra Pavia at the IWC, and allowed herself a soft chuckle. "The longer this drags out, the harder impoverished states such as Lauchenoiria and Milintica will find it to sustain a blockade. I am confident that the Empire's endurance is greater than theirs, we just have to stay the course and wait them out. I am also quite confident that we can find ways to exploit the tense relationship between the Lauchenoirians and the Milinticans to degrade the effectiveness of their blockade. As for the CU....it is a concern, but if we unify our own forces more closely, I believe we can meet that challenge. This is why....cooperation....will be essential between us."
Alarm bells were ringing in Berenstein's head. What have I done? Inviting Xiomera was partially my idea. Did I help sell Auria to foreign imperialists? She could tell that the General was similarly concerned, however his Military discipline kept his feelings concealed. "Exploiting tense relationships is also a good idea. I'd never thought I'd say this, but having Milintica in the coalition does make things a bit easier. At least, when starting arguments. Ideological arguments are practically gasoline." She gave a small smile at that, trying to joke at the hot mess that politics is.
"They certainly are. And I am sure Imperial Intelligence can use that gasoline to set a few fires for their little alliance to deal with,” the Empress said with another soft laugh. “In any event, CSSC will begin helping you secure your important facilities and will also assist with implementing an instant ID system using Xiomeran technology. It may also be prudent to let CSSC establish some permanent bases in western Auria, so that we can begin supply flights directly into Auria and bypass the silly naval blockade altogether.” Calhualyana said that last bit with a tone of finality, as if it was already agreed.
"Of course. We will make the appropriate preparations." The King nodded his thanks. "You are truly a gracious ally. I hope we can work together further without the 'CU' intervening, for the betterment of both of our great nations."
"I am confident that we can, and look forward to it,” Calhualyana replied. “That is all I had to discuss, is there anything that any of you would like to add?”
"I don't believe so. Thank you for your time. And congratulations on your marriage." King Andrew sounded sincere, ditching the cheerful PR tone he had used before. "Finding love is such a hard thing, and I'm glad that you have been able to find your match in life."
The Empress smiled in response. “Thank you very much for that. It is a hard thing to find sometimes, especially for people in our position. I am indeed fortunate.” Calhualyana smiled more broadly. “Thank you all again for taking time to speak with me. If you need anything urgently, please don’t hesitate to contact me.”
When the call ended, the Empress thought a moment, then dialed up another call. Soon, her Defense Minister appeared on the screen. “Make sure CSSC gets those temporary airfields in western Auria set up as quickly as possible. We need to open up another supply route immediately.”
As the call wrapped up, Berenstein was halfway tempted to make another call with just the Aurian leaders, to discuss how risky this situation was getting. But seeing how obedient the King was had her hesitant. I don't like this, but he might not mind it. If I bring it up, I might become a threat to him, at least in his eyes.
Office of the Golden Chamber, Palace of Flowers
The Attendant to the Empress hastily looked up a link, then started a video call for her mistress. Calhualyana had read a full report on the explosion at the warehouse in Desmarais, and was icily sitting at her royal desk waiting. The Attendant knew better than to keep the Empress waiting in such a mood. When the line connected to the office of Sarah Berenstein, the Attendant stated that the Empress wished to speak with all three Aurian coup leaders. Urgently.
Berenstein wasted no time, quickly calling the King and General Michelin. She thought about inviting Lautrec and Gerand, but decided against it. Gerand is already busy with some task for Cordonnier, and Lautrec would only piss people off. We really don't need that. She put on a diplomatic smile as the two gentlemen joined the meeting, waiting for the empress to join as well.
When the other three joined the meeting, Calhualyana also adopted a diplomatic smile. There was nothing else jovial about her expression, however. One look at her eyes made that clear. “Good morning. Thank you all for taking the time to speak with me. I know you must all be very busy at the moment,” the Empress began.
The Aurians nodded, their nervousness palpable. Berenstein spoke first, earning a glare from the King. "Given the growing wall of papers on my desk, I would say we are quite busy. No matter. How may we be of assistance?" She attempted to seem relieved and joking, but the feeling didn't meet her eyes. I don't think this'll end well...
"I was contacting all of you to discuss the security situation in Auria at the moment, and how we might proceed from here to stabilize the situation. The recent incident in Desmarais has raised concerns among my council, as well as our General Staff and our intelligence community. It appears indicative of a deteriorating relationship between your government and the people. CSSC has begun moving its forces into the cities, as you are no doubt aware, to assist with maintaining order. But it seems prudent to discuss what your plans are for a more permanent solution,” Calhualyana said.
King Andrew took over, a sense of regality present in his speech. "Ah, of course. And as you are no doubt aware, our Garda Nacōnals recruiting programs have greatly increased our forces. Our imposed curfews should greatly reduce any potential domestic unrest, and with our expanded forces, such curfews should be easily enforceable. However..." He spoke quickly, seeming to segue from one topic to another in a single heartbeat. "My more immediate concern is the blockade of our shores, and our current resource scarcity. And without a navy at my disposal, I must request help from you, our faithful ally. We require your help, your majesty."
Calhualyana kept the smile on her face, all the while wondering just what kind of styrofoam or paper was occupying King Andrew’s cranium in place of a brain. “Xiomera will be happy to increase the amount of goods and resources we provide to Auria, through the supply runs we are currently performing to avoid the blockade. We can also assist with increasing domestic production. But challenging the blockade at this time will certainly lead to war - a war that Auria is not capable of winning. We are pleased to be your….ally,” the Empress said, letting the slight hesitation make it clear exactly what she considered the relationship to be. “But challenging the blockade at this time would be against both my own assessment of the situation, and that of my advisors.”
Cordonnier kept his salesman smile on, adjusting his suit for the camera. "Ah, of course. My apologies, I may have misphrased things. I did not mean to overexaggerate the strength of the Xiomeran navy, or imply that your advisors would have recommended such a brazen course of action. And we will happily receive any additional resources you can generously provide for Auria. The CSSC forces have already been invaluable to our security efforts. You are a gracious ally, that's for certain."
Calhualyana nodded politely in response. "I am glad you feel that way," she said, choosing to let the King's remark about the strength of the Imperial Navy slide. "We also believe that we need closer coordination between our governments as to how we respond to the spikes of unrest taking place. My advisors and I believe that an approach that relies solely on increased security and detention of your citizens will prove counter-productive. It is essential that you also consider ways to win your people over to your side. One way we believe you should consider is to turn their attention away from the internal issues of supply and demand in Auria right now, and turn their attention instead to who is causing those issues. Right now, they blame you. But you should instead work to shift their blame to Eiria, Lauchenoiria and Milintica - the meddling outsiders who have chosen to deprive your people. You cannot arrest your way out of this crisis alone. But giving people an enemy to focus on, and showing them they are engaged in a great struggle for independence from such foreign meddling - that is something that you should implement as soon as possible."
The Empress knew very well how effective such a strategy could be - she had used that exact strategy to very good effect to gain power in Xiomera, after all.
"Agreed. We employed a similar strategy to liberate Auria in the first place. Public perception is an awfully sharp weapon." The King had a strong glint in his eye, and he seemed to defer the floor to his fellow Aurians. Sarah picked up the conversation. "We have our Minister of Information, Jonothan Gerand, working very hard to control our public broadcasts. He's very popular, and a very popular media celebrity. He's an indisposable asset, especially during these stressful times."
"Excellent. You may want to consider offering loyal citizens incentives for their support, as we do. The carrot is often more productive than the stick," Cahualyana replied. "As for security.....the recent destruction of our donated equipment and supplies in Desmarais is unfortunate. Perhaps you, or General Michelin, could enlighten me as to what measures are being undertaken to ensure such an event does not occur again."
Michelin, who had been mostly silent until this point, cleared his throat. "Our security around our military bases has been doubled, with posts at gateways being manned by more senior, experienced soldiers. Officers have been distributed to each new Garda company, and each group's loyalty is carefully monitored. We are working on getting some better forms of secure identification, so any person attempting to disguise as a soldier could be found out quickly. Currently, the protection of our weapons is our first priority. We cannot afford to lose more of our resources."
"I would be inclined to agree," Calhualyana replied. "We have no problem with supplying those resources, but would prefer not to see them wasted. We believe it prudent that CSSC forces begin supplementing your security forces, both at military installations and checkpoints, and at key government facilities. As a precautionary measure, of course."
In truth, CSSC had already begun doing that in the wake of Desmarais, but Calhualyana wanted to make it official. Her tone of voice and phrasing also made it clear that, for her, this was not a request.
"Of course. We look forward to working further with them." The General said, appearing neutral on demeanor. Berenstein also attempted to maintain her expression, but that last "recommendation" had her slightly unnerved. "Anyways, I was slightly concerned about our enemies organizing their forces into a singular military. Now they pose a unified threat, or at least, more of a unified threat."
"Perhaps, but they are only unified to a point. Lauchenoiria is still a feeble state at best, and it is well-known that they have issues with Milintica," the Empress said. She thought back to the confrontation between Neina Arana and Sandra Pavia at the IWC, and allowed herself a soft chuckle. "The longer this drags out, the harder impoverished states such as Lauchenoiria and Milintica will find it to sustain a blockade. I am confident that the Empire's endurance is greater than theirs, we just have to stay the course and wait them out. I am also quite confident that we can find ways to exploit the tense relationship between the Lauchenoirians and the Milinticans to degrade the effectiveness of their blockade. As for the CU....it is a concern, but if we unify our own forces more closely, I believe we can meet that challenge. This is why....cooperation....will be essential between us."
Alarm bells were ringing in Berenstein's head. What have I done? Inviting Xiomera was partially my idea. Did I help sell Auria to foreign imperialists? She could tell that the General was similarly concerned, however his Military discipline kept his feelings concealed. "Exploiting tense relationships is also a good idea. I'd never thought I'd say this, but having Milintica in the coalition does make things a bit easier. At least, when starting arguments. Ideological arguments are practically gasoline." She gave a small smile at that, trying to joke at the hot mess that politics is.
"They certainly are. And I am sure Imperial Intelligence can use that gasoline to set a few fires for their little alliance to deal with,” the Empress said with another soft laugh. “In any event, CSSC will begin helping you secure your important facilities and will also assist with implementing an instant ID system using Xiomeran technology. It may also be prudent to let CSSC establish some permanent bases in western Auria, so that we can begin supply flights directly into Auria and bypass the silly naval blockade altogether.” Calhualyana said that last bit with a tone of finality, as if it was already agreed.
"Of course. We will make the appropriate preparations." The King nodded his thanks. "You are truly a gracious ally. I hope we can work together further without the 'CU' intervening, for the betterment of both of our great nations."
"I am confident that we can, and look forward to it,” Calhualyana replied. “That is all I had to discuss, is there anything that any of you would like to add?”
"I don't believe so. Thank you for your time. And congratulations on your marriage." King Andrew sounded sincere, ditching the cheerful PR tone he had used before. "Finding love is such a hard thing, and I'm glad that you have been able to find your match in life."
The Empress smiled in response. “Thank you very much for that. It is a hard thing to find sometimes, especially for people in our position. I am indeed fortunate.” Calhualyana smiled more broadly. “Thank you all again for taking time to speak with me. If you need anything urgently, please don’t hesitate to contact me.”
When the call ended, the Empress thought a moment, then dialed up another call. Soon, her Defense Minister appeared on the screen. “Make sure CSSC gets those temporary airfields in western Auria set up as quickly as possible. We need to open up another supply route immediately.”
As the call wrapped up, Berenstein was halfway tempted to make another call with just the Aurian leaders, to discuss how risky this situation was getting. But seeing how obedient the King was had her hesitant. I don't like this, but he might not mind it. If I bring it up, I might become a threat to him, at least in his eyes.
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