08-11-2022, 05:19 AM
(Joint Post with Xiomera)
Chancellor's Manor, Geminus
Wednesday, August 10th, 2022, 2:37 PM
To say that Chancellor Leah Stendē was worried about events in Huenya would've been an understatement. Her nails, usually neatly clipped and uniform, were chewed raw, and she kept running her hands through her jet black hair every few seconds. For Angel's sake, how the hell do you fix this? We are an inch from losing our strongest ally in the region, and there may not be a single damn thing we can do about it.
The videos of protests outside Huenyan government buildings played on loop on her laptop, but she had stopped watching minutes ago. Reports from her security and political advisors were opened on her desk, both of them saying the exact same thing. If the Huenyan government falls, we may be a prime target for Xiomera next.
She glanced down at her desk for a brief second, before snatching her desk phone and pausing, waiting for her secretary to answer. "Get me a call with Vice-Speaker Tiacihitli please." Stende sighed as the dial tone came back, presumably to give the secretary time to find the number and place the call. At this point, we really ought to have them on speed dial.
When the call came through, Tiacihitli quickly put aside what he was working on. He was facing the biggest crisis yet of his administration, and Eiria had been a close ally. Hopefully, this call would throw him a lifeline.
“Chancellor Stendē, thank you so much for calling. How are you doing today?”
"Well, Your Excellency, I'm doing well, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't concerned. Recent events, at least from an outside angle, have appeared drastic and potentially catastrophic if escalated. And although I do not wish to step on your toes, so to speak, I was just wondering if Eiria could provide assistance in any meaningful manner. Given the looming threat of Xiomera, I believe we could all benefit from united action." Stendē chose her words carefully, in case the Huenyan executive found insult in what was supposed to be an extension of help.
”It is undeniable that your day is going better than mine,” the Vice-Speaker replied with a laugh. “And we can, indeed, benefit from united action. I am glad you called, because there is one thing Eiria could do to assist us in this situation. Statements of support for a cease-fire, and for my administration and our chosen course of action concerning the separatists, would be of huge benefit right now. Most Huenyans want peace, but there are certain individuals among us who want to go to war with Xiomera again. They believe that Eiria and our other allies will come to our aid if we go back to war. If you could make it clear that sending troops is not an option, it would greatly weaken the argument of the pro-war faction. And if you and other influential Eirian leaders were to speak in favor of my position, that would help as well. Many Huenyans have a positive view of Eiria due to your help during the civil war. Your words could help greatly.”
Stendē noticeably eased, the simplicity of the request a surprising respite. "We would be happy to speak out in support of your decision. And, I agree, sending troops right now is really not a good option. We're already stretched thin logistically, and we can't afford to fight a war on two major fronts. Plus, members of our own governing coalition are wary of additional troop commitments. We've already disturbed many pacifist-leaning voters, and an all-out war with Xiomera would be impossible to justify, unless as a last resort." The Chancellor paused, an interesting thought coming to her. "Does the Huenyan public have a high enough trust of Eiria that our words would have a positive effect? If our words appear like we're attempting to 'meddle' in Huenyan affairs, they may have an opposite effect than the one we're intending it to have."
”I don’t think it would be perceived as meddling. Sure, there are some Huenyans who see all foreign intervention as meddling, mainly because of the years we spent under Xiomeran rule. Some are wary of coming under foreign control again, and there has been a little grumbling here and there about the help we get from Eiria and Laeral, but it’s a very tiny fringe of the population. Most Huenyans are very grateful for the help we have gotten. So I believe your words would be well received. Acxopotl’s side may not like them, but that’s their issue,” Tiacihitli added with another laugh.
Stendē politely returned a laugh. "That's great to hear." Her smile slowly faded, replaced by her signature look of determination. "However, I do have another question. Do you believe that our endorsement will be enough to survive a vote of no confidence? Governmental dissolution is something that Xiomera would be quick to take advantage of, and I'd like to do everything in my power to assist you, in order to not give them that leverage."
”As long as my own party remains behind me, and we retain the support of the anti-war faction, it will be close but we will prevail. Acxopotl does not have the majority of votes in the Legislature, unless he somehow breaks the unity of my own party. The other parties in my coalition tend to be quite a bit further left than the Party of Huitzilopochtli, so I can’t see them being willing partners to put Acxopotl in a situation where he could somehow become Vice-Speaker.” Tiacihitli paused. “If you and your fellow leaders could quietly reach out to the legislators within the Unification Party and help me keep them on side, that would be another way to ensure this no-confidence vote fails.”
"That we can do. I'm sure we'll have quite a few enthusiastic volunteers in the Senate, given the gravity of the situation. Most of us would prefer to have the leadership of the UCS united on this matter, before we get trapped in a war that we can't fight and didn't want to start in the first place." Stendē gave herself a small smile, imagining the wave of statements and calls from Senators who would support their cause.
”Those two things are the best things that you can do for us right now, and I am grateful for the help. If we can get this situation stabilized in southeastern Huenya, it is entirely possible that we could once again resume participation in the coalition in Auria. I think that would be greatly appreciated by those on the front lines there,” Tiacihitli replied.
"Absolutely. This could be the turning point of the War in Auria." The Eirian leader's mood had improved considerably. "I'm very glad to hear that. We'll waste no time in declaring your support, and I'll make it known among Unity Alliance Senators that they should follow suit as well. We may overwhelm the journalists with too many statements, but hey, no one will accuse us of half-assing our assistance, if you'll pardon the phrase."
”That is definitely true,” Tiacihitli responded. “I know that the assistance will be highly beneficial.”
"It definitely will." Stendē glanced at her watch, calculating her daily schedule in her head. "Well, I'm glad to have talked to you, Your Excellency. If Eiria can assist you in any other ways, please, do let us know." After the call disconnected, Stendē wasted no time, grabbing a nearby portfolio and scribbling a few notes, before walking into her chief of staff's office. Julius Riekstins immediately stood from his desk, reading the expression on his boss's face. "What do you need, kurena?"
"Could you have the press core gather in the briefing room in thirty minutes, please? And afterwards, I'll need to make a few calls to coalition whips and party leaders, as well as Minister Lancaster. Actually, both Minister Lancasters. You'll see why after the briefing." She thought for a few seconds. "Could you get Fournier and Bennett in here as well? I'll need their help."
And with that last request for her Press Secretary and Head Speechwriter, she walked back into her office, the door drifting shut behind her.
``-----
Thirty minutes later, the Chancellor's briefing room was packed full of curious journalists and live cameras, per her request. As Stendē took the stand, the room was suprisingly quiet, except for the occasional camera shutter sound. She cleared her throat, glancing around the room, before beginning to speak, her light Geminus regional accent subtle, yet apparent.
"Good afternoon. I apologize for the short notice, but what I've called you all here for is quite important. As you all know, there has been a large political disturbance in Huenya. The Party of Huitzilopochtli has left the governing coalition, putting the current ruling government at risk of a no confidence vote. This was brought on by Vice Speaker Tiacihitli's announcement of a cessation of conflict with the rogue state of 'Western Xiomera'."
"This political rift is a dangerous one, and the safety and security of Huenya and Caxcana as a whole will be put at risk if we devolve into political chaos. Now, while the state of 'Western Xiomera' is a blatant attempt by Empress Calhualyana to skirt around the Jinyu Agreement, I must be completely frank: I agree with Vice-Speaker Tiacihitli's decision to negotiate a ceasefire."
She paused and examined the reactions of the press core members, before continuing. "In an ideal world, we would have the capabilities to fight against the machinations of authoritarian rulers on multiple fronts. However, even with the combined strength of Eiria, Huenya, and Milintica, we cannot seek to liberate Huenya from Xiomera's clutches and defend our own flanks."
"It has come to my attention that some politicians in the UCS would like to re-enter open conflict with Xiomera, under the assumption that we will have enough strength to gain ground against Xiomera. And while these politicians may have good intent, more outright conflict is not the answer at this time."
"Our troops have been truly dedicated, fighting against Xiomera directly, before fighting in Huenya and Auria. We've put them through three major conflicts, one of which is still ongoing, without the respite of peace. Many of them gave their lives for the prospect of freedom throughout Caxcana. Actively restarting the war against Xiomera would gamble their sacrifice and all that they have given on the misguided idea that we can fight the enemy on several fronts. I cannot and will not risk the freedom of millions of UCS citizens on the vain hope that we perhaps can gain a little more territory. A war of that scale just isn't feasible at this point."
Stendē stared straight into the TV cameras, accentuating her speech with visible confidence and dedication. "Citizens of the Union of Caxcanan States, whether Huenyan, Eirian, Milintican, or Aurian, I must ask you to examine your situation, and ask yourself 'Does my leader want to restart the conflict with Xiomera, instead of handling the issues we currently have?' I encourage you to make your voices known. Contact your representatives, shout in the streets, post on social media! Don't let the harrowing conflict in Auria be put aside by politicians with lofty ambitions."
Stendē's tone relaxed as she entered the conclusion of her speech. "Both the state of Huenya and the UCS as a whole are testaments to how far democracy has come in Caxcana. We must protect these institutions, for the sake of our descendants. But destabilizing Huenya in order to resume all-out war is not the way we will make sure our democratic legacies live on. I stand with Vice-Speaker Tiacihitli, I stand with the leaders of Huenya, and I stand with the Union of Caxcanan States in this matter. I hope that you all, wherever you may be, will do the same, regardless of political affiliation or nationality. Giving ourselves the time to recover is the only way we will continue to stand strong and united in the future."
"Thank you for your time."
Chancellor's Manor, Geminus
Wednesday, August 10th, 2022, 2:37 PM
To say that Chancellor Leah Stendē was worried about events in Huenya would've been an understatement. Her nails, usually neatly clipped and uniform, were chewed raw, and she kept running her hands through her jet black hair every few seconds. For Angel's sake, how the hell do you fix this? We are an inch from losing our strongest ally in the region, and there may not be a single damn thing we can do about it.
The videos of protests outside Huenyan government buildings played on loop on her laptop, but she had stopped watching minutes ago. Reports from her security and political advisors were opened on her desk, both of them saying the exact same thing. If the Huenyan government falls, we may be a prime target for Xiomera next.
She glanced down at her desk for a brief second, before snatching her desk phone and pausing, waiting for her secretary to answer. "Get me a call with Vice-Speaker Tiacihitli please." Stende sighed as the dial tone came back, presumably to give the secretary time to find the number and place the call. At this point, we really ought to have them on speed dial.
When the call came through, Tiacihitli quickly put aside what he was working on. He was facing the biggest crisis yet of his administration, and Eiria had been a close ally. Hopefully, this call would throw him a lifeline.
“Chancellor Stendē, thank you so much for calling. How are you doing today?”
"Well, Your Excellency, I'm doing well, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't concerned. Recent events, at least from an outside angle, have appeared drastic and potentially catastrophic if escalated. And although I do not wish to step on your toes, so to speak, I was just wondering if Eiria could provide assistance in any meaningful manner. Given the looming threat of Xiomera, I believe we could all benefit from united action." Stendē chose her words carefully, in case the Huenyan executive found insult in what was supposed to be an extension of help.
”It is undeniable that your day is going better than mine,” the Vice-Speaker replied with a laugh. “And we can, indeed, benefit from united action. I am glad you called, because there is one thing Eiria could do to assist us in this situation. Statements of support for a cease-fire, and for my administration and our chosen course of action concerning the separatists, would be of huge benefit right now. Most Huenyans want peace, but there are certain individuals among us who want to go to war with Xiomera again. They believe that Eiria and our other allies will come to our aid if we go back to war. If you could make it clear that sending troops is not an option, it would greatly weaken the argument of the pro-war faction. And if you and other influential Eirian leaders were to speak in favor of my position, that would help as well. Many Huenyans have a positive view of Eiria due to your help during the civil war. Your words could help greatly.”
Stendē noticeably eased, the simplicity of the request a surprising respite. "We would be happy to speak out in support of your decision. And, I agree, sending troops right now is really not a good option. We're already stretched thin logistically, and we can't afford to fight a war on two major fronts. Plus, members of our own governing coalition are wary of additional troop commitments. We've already disturbed many pacifist-leaning voters, and an all-out war with Xiomera would be impossible to justify, unless as a last resort." The Chancellor paused, an interesting thought coming to her. "Does the Huenyan public have a high enough trust of Eiria that our words would have a positive effect? If our words appear like we're attempting to 'meddle' in Huenyan affairs, they may have an opposite effect than the one we're intending it to have."
”I don’t think it would be perceived as meddling. Sure, there are some Huenyans who see all foreign intervention as meddling, mainly because of the years we spent under Xiomeran rule. Some are wary of coming under foreign control again, and there has been a little grumbling here and there about the help we get from Eiria and Laeral, but it’s a very tiny fringe of the population. Most Huenyans are very grateful for the help we have gotten. So I believe your words would be well received. Acxopotl’s side may not like them, but that’s their issue,” Tiacihitli added with another laugh.
Stendē politely returned a laugh. "That's great to hear." Her smile slowly faded, replaced by her signature look of determination. "However, I do have another question. Do you believe that our endorsement will be enough to survive a vote of no confidence? Governmental dissolution is something that Xiomera would be quick to take advantage of, and I'd like to do everything in my power to assist you, in order to not give them that leverage."
”As long as my own party remains behind me, and we retain the support of the anti-war faction, it will be close but we will prevail. Acxopotl does not have the majority of votes in the Legislature, unless he somehow breaks the unity of my own party. The other parties in my coalition tend to be quite a bit further left than the Party of Huitzilopochtli, so I can’t see them being willing partners to put Acxopotl in a situation where he could somehow become Vice-Speaker.” Tiacihitli paused. “If you and your fellow leaders could quietly reach out to the legislators within the Unification Party and help me keep them on side, that would be another way to ensure this no-confidence vote fails.”
"That we can do. I'm sure we'll have quite a few enthusiastic volunteers in the Senate, given the gravity of the situation. Most of us would prefer to have the leadership of the UCS united on this matter, before we get trapped in a war that we can't fight and didn't want to start in the first place." Stendē gave herself a small smile, imagining the wave of statements and calls from Senators who would support their cause.
”Those two things are the best things that you can do for us right now, and I am grateful for the help. If we can get this situation stabilized in southeastern Huenya, it is entirely possible that we could once again resume participation in the coalition in Auria. I think that would be greatly appreciated by those on the front lines there,” Tiacihitli replied.
"Absolutely. This could be the turning point of the War in Auria." The Eirian leader's mood had improved considerably. "I'm very glad to hear that. We'll waste no time in declaring your support, and I'll make it known among Unity Alliance Senators that they should follow suit as well. We may overwhelm the journalists with too many statements, but hey, no one will accuse us of half-assing our assistance, if you'll pardon the phrase."
”That is definitely true,” Tiacihitli responded. “I know that the assistance will be highly beneficial.”
"It definitely will." Stendē glanced at her watch, calculating her daily schedule in her head. "Well, I'm glad to have talked to you, Your Excellency. If Eiria can assist you in any other ways, please, do let us know." After the call disconnected, Stendē wasted no time, grabbing a nearby portfolio and scribbling a few notes, before walking into her chief of staff's office. Julius Riekstins immediately stood from his desk, reading the expression on his boss's face. "What do you need, kurena?"
"Could you have the press core gather in the briefing room in thirty minutes, please? And afterwards, I'll need to make a few calls to coalition whips and party leaders, as well as Minister Lancaster. Actually, both Minister Lancasters. You'll see why after the briefing." She thought for a few seconds. "Could you get Fournier and Bennett in here as well? I'll need their help."
And with that last request for her Press Secretary and Head Speechwriter, she walked back into her office, the door drifting shut behind her.
``-----
Thirty minutes later, the Chancellor's briefing room was packed full of curious journalists and live cameras, per her request. As Stendē took the stand, the room was suprisingly quiet, except for the occasional camera shutter sound. She cleared her throat, glancing around the room, before beginning to speak, her light Geminus regional accent subtle, yet apparent.
"Good afternoon. I apologize for the short notice, but what I've called you all here for is quite important. As you all know, there has been a large political disturbance in Huenya. The Party of Huitzilopochtli has left the governing coalition, putting the current ruling government at risk of a no confidence vote. This was brought on by Vice Speaker Tiacihitli's announcement of a cessation of conflict with the rogue state of 'Western Xiomera'."
"This political rift is a dangerous one, and the safety and security of Huenya and Caxcana as a whole will be put at risk if we devolve into political chaos. Now, while the state of 'Western Xiomera' is a blatant attempt by Empress Calhualyana to skirt around the Jinyu Agreement, I must be completely frank: I agree with Vice-Speaker Tiacihitli's decision to negotiate a ceasefire."
She paused and examined the reactions of the press core members, before continuing. "In an ideal world, we would have the capabilities to fight against the machinations of authoritarian rulers on multiple fronts. However, even with the combined strength of Eiria, Huenya, and Milintica, we cannot seek to liberate Huenya from Xiomera's clutches and defend our own flanks."
"It has come to my attention that some politicians in the UCS would like to re-enter open conflict with Xiomera, under the assumption that we will have enough strength to gain ground against Xiomera. And while these politicians may have good intent, more outright conflict is not the answer at this time."
"Our troops have been truly dedicated, fighting against Xiomera directly, before fighting in Huenya and Auria. We've put them through three major conflicts, one of which is still ongoing, without the respite of peace. Many of them gave their lives for the prospect of freedom throughout Caxcana. Actively restarting the war against Xiomera would gamble their sacrifice and all that they have given on the misguided idea that we can fight the enemy on several fronts. I cannot and will not risk the freedom of millions of UCS citizens on the vain hope that we perhaps can gain a little more territory. A war of that scale just isn't feasible at this point."
Stendē stared straight into the TV cameras, accentuating her speech with visible confidence and dedication. "Citizens of the Union of Caxcanan States, whether Huenyan, Eirian, Milintican, or Aurian, I must ask you to examine your situation, and ask yourself 'Does my leader want to restart the conflict with Xiomera, instead of handling the issues we currently have?' I encourage you to make your voices known. Contact your representatives, shout in the streets, post on social media! Don't let the harrowing conflict in Auria be put aside by politicians with lofty ambitions."
Stendē's tone relaxed as she entered the conclusion of her speech. "Both the state of Huenya and the UCS as a whole are testaments to how far democracy has come in Caxcana. We must protect these institutions, for the sake of our descendants. But destabilizing Huenya in order to resume all-out war is not the way we will make sure our democratic legacies live on. I stand with Vice-Speaker Tiacihitli, I stand with the leaders of Huenya, and I stand with the Union of Caxcanan States in this matter. I hope that you all, wherever you may be, will do the same, regardless of political affiliation or nationality. Giving ourselves the time to recover is the only way we will continue to stand strong and united in the future."
"Thank you for your time."
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