11-14-2022, 05:08 AM
Joint post with Eiria
Tiruma International Airport, Outside New Riga, Eiria
The private hangars of New Riga's primary airport had never been so secure. Both Solar Guard and TAA(Transport Defense Agency) agents were posted at every entrance and corner, ensuring the utmost security for the arriving dignitaries.
Vice Chancellor Lynn Morrin stood towards the front of the hanger, watching the Huenyan transport plane taxi towards the hangar. She had donned a very respectful, diplomatic expression, almost looking forward to meeting their guests. Not the best of jobs, but hey, it's definitely better than babysitting Senators or putting out political fires.
She was flanked by both of the Ministers Lancaster, who were dressed in matching navy suits. The pair appeared organized and welcoming, completely prepared to host Yauhmi and Tlalmaxxi for friendly diplomatic discussions. However, both of them were slightly uneasy, eyeing the Vice Chancellor with a shared look of mild apprehension. Morrin's debate skills and temper were both famous and infamous in Eirian political circles. She's brilliant, but she's never hosted a diplomatic discussion before. How is she going to handle this?
The Huenyan military plane finally came to a halt, and a set of stairs was rolled up to the plane as a door opened. First was the requisite Huenyan security in the form of several FIS agents wearing dark blue suits. Then Yauhmi came down the stairs, in a plain blue dress. A simple gold chain with stones and gems native to Huenya worked into it was the only decoration she wore, the symbol of her new office. Behind her, Tlalmaxxi followed in a stylish blue and gold pantsuit of a style that she favored for ease of movement (and weapons concealment). When the group made it to where their hosts were waiting, Yauhmi smiled. “I am so happy to see my friends the Lancasters again,” she said, shaking their hands warmly. “Vice-Chancellor Morrin, I am privileged to have your presence as well. Thank you for meeting with us.”
The Vice-Chancellor gave a respectful nod after the former Empress addressed her. "Of course, Madame nantzintli. It's a pleasure to meet you." Morrin subconsciously adjusted her dark maroon pantsuit. "Chancellor Stendē sends her regards, and her apologies. A large union of healthcare workers in Geminus have gone on strike, so she got caught up mediating negotiations. She does hope that you enjoy your visit, though." She turned, gesturing for the Huenyans to follow her. "If you'll follow me, we have vehicles ready to take us to a nice lunch, where our discussion can begin."
As the group walked, Morrin gave a shallow bow to Tlalmaxxi, much to the appreciation of the Lancaster siblings. "It's a pleasure to meet you as well, Madame. Welcome to Eiria!"
"Your welcome honors us,” Tlalmaxxi replied as she returned the bow. Her soft voice was a striking contrast to the characteristically strong tones of Yauhmi.
"Of course. We're glad to host our trusted allies." Alice Lancaster replied with a characteristic smile. "Well, we're in for a treat. Elena's Lounge is famous. It's very traditional, they apparently treat everyone like royalty. If what I've heard is true, they don't have enough wall space for all of thier awards. We hope it's up to your standards!"
"I am sure it will be excellent,” Yauhmi replied. “Are they known for any specialties in particular?”
"Well, it's known for twists on very traditional dishes, especially seafood. Especially being so close to the port, it's reportedly some of the freshest seafood you can get in a proper restaurant." Alice Lancaster replied, as the group approached a series of secure vans. "Trust me, if what I've heard is true, you definitely won't regret making the trip out here."
---
The private room in Elena's Lounge was refined and well-lit, with paintings and wooden decor lining the walls. Waiters in traditional Halar robes brought the group of leaders to their table, serving them their drinks and delivering traditional appetizers, such as Duvmaize, and shrimp Pelmes dumplings in a flavorful sauce. After the servers had left, the Eirians sat down, gesturing for the Huenyans to do likewise.
Morrin inspected the table, giving an impressed nod. "Wow, more appetizers than I was expecting. Quite authentic too. I hope you both enjoy!"
Yauhmi and Tlalmaxxi both sat down and began sampling the various dishes. “Everything is excellent. I must get some of these recipes for my own chef if possible,” Yauhmi said after trying several of the dishes. Tlalmaxxi seemed especially pleased with the dumplings, echoing Yauhmi’s sentiment. “Our own chefs could add these recipes to their repertoire as well at the palace. It’s nice to try something different from our own cuisine once in a while. That’s one of the benefits of having a good relationship with your neighbors.”
"Very true. Some of the best, and some of the spiciest, food I've ever had has been from Huenyan restaurants and food stalls. Which reminds me..." Minister William Lancaster glanced between the dignitaries. "I believe the next stop is visiting an ethnic Huenyan neighborhood in the Seventh District, after we finish lunch. It's truly amazing how much our cultures have interacted over the centuries, even when nations weren't exactly on the best of terms. We have persevered through so much adversity, and now that we are allies, we can face the challenges of the future much more strongly. Although," the Minister of the UCS paused, a slight edge of humor entering his voice. "Who would've expected that almost all of our current problems could be traced back to a single woman? It's insane what the abuse of power can do."
"It’s also insane what one insane person can do,” Tlalmaxxi said with a grimace. “I’d eliminate the cause of the issue if I could, but I have been told that would be….problematic.”
Yauhmi laughed briefly in response; she knew exactly how Tlalmaxxi wanted to address the issue of Calhualyana. “As much as we might all want to take a more direct approach to the issue of that person, diplomacy must be our weapon of choice for now.”
"Exactly." The Vice Chancellor put down her drink. "The way that Xiomeran mercenaries have behaved in Auria is truly abhorrent, even by the limited intelligence that we possess. We must implore the international community to denounce these actions immediately. Bringing the issue in front of LIDUN should hopefully put Calhualyana on the defensive, and isolate any of her potential allies. But even the diplomatic fight will be a challenge." Morrin subconsciously glanced around the room. "She's going to fight us tooth and nail. Talk about an uphill battle."
"Our greater concern is that Calhualyana may be past the point of persuasion. She seems to be falling for her own propaganda about building a new Empire.” Tlalmaxxi had a pensive expression on her face as she spoke. “Unless the international community does put up a united and strong stance against her actions right now, it may not be enough to deter her and prevent a wider war. But if we can get this in front of LIDUN, and convince other leading nations to take whatever steps are necessary to deter her, perhaps we can avoid that.”
"I wholeheartedly agree. But we will need a united front in order to actually have an impact. While our allies may be quick to stand against Xiomera, other nations may be harder to convince." Morrin replied, prompting Alice Lancaster to cut in. "Yes, however, much of our work has already been done for us. Calhualyana's extremist actions have isolated many remaining allies, and if we make a coordinated effort, we will deter any potential allies that she would have left. May I suggest increased public showings of unity and diplomatic events, both inside the UCS and with democratic allies? Let us make Calhualyana's isolation abundantly clear to her."
"That sounds like a good place to start,” Yauhmi agreed. “As distasteful as it may be to deal with the allies she has found, we may also want to consider ways to isolate her from them. If we perhaps make overtures to Shuell and Iskiram to show that being allied with Calhualyana is a losing proposition in the long term, we may be able to isolate her even more.”
"A very solid plan. Even if Calhualyana isn't deterred by a lack of allies, it should hopefully help prevent her from waging another full-out war." Morrin sighed, glancing at her colleagues before addressing an apparent elephant in the room. "Unfortunately, despite how vigilantly our citizens are speaking out against Xiomeran imperialism, some Eirians are beginning to tire of war. And I can't exactly blame them. We've seen more war in the past ten years than we have for the entire rest of the history of the Republic. Calhualyana would be a fool if she didn't notice and take advantage of our citizen's war weariness. Even if we are successful with our liberation of Auria, we will be in no place to join a war, leaving us vulnerable if Calhualyana struck again."
"That is very understandable. You have been shouldering the burden of the issues in Caxcana for some time now. I would not be surprised if that was part of Calhualyana’s long-term strategy, to wear all of us down and make us more vulnerable,” Tlalmaxxi said soberly.
“This is why isolating her as much as possible, as quickly as possible, is so important,” Yauhmi added. “We should also begin reaching out beyond Caxcana to broaden our coalition.”
"Absolutely. Bringing Lauchenoiria and Laeral fully into our ranks at minimum will be a great start, though they may be weary of more war as well. Making pleas to other democracies will also greatly increase the influence that our messages will have." Alice Lancaster confidently spoke in reply, this being her area of expertise. "May I ask if you had any other particular areas in mind outside Caxcana, besides Laeral and Lauchenoiria?"
"Reaching out to the Maximusians and convincing them to place sanctions on Xiomera would be a good start. Sanctaria would also be a good contact. Wosteaque might also be good to bring into the group. Any countries that we can convince to sanction the Empire or limit trade with it, the better.”
"Perfect." As the Minister of Diplomacy took a bite of a Pelmes dumpling, her brother took up the mantle of conversation. "It is absolutely imperative that we work together on this. Although a sizeable majority of Eirians still support the UCS, we have been facing a vocal minority of... 'Union-Skeptics', I guess. Earlier this week, a conservative activist group filed a lawsuit, claiming that the formation of the UCS violates the sovereignty clause in our constitution. While it's highly likely that this case will be thrown out, it's an unfortunate fact that those discontent with the UCS are becoming more vocal with their opposition."
"I wish we could say we don’t have similar issues, but we do. There are some skeptics in Huenya who fear any kind of foreign ties after spending so long under Imperial domination. They’re opposed to the UCS, the partnership between Laeral and Huenya, and our own agreements. They are a small group, but also…..vocal.” Tlalmaxxi grimaced as she speared a dumpling.
"I do find it ironic that these groups are fighting against the UCS with similar means, but inverse motivations." Morrin noted with a glint of humor in her eyes. "Some of our politicians go on and on about Eiria 'being exploited' by our neighbors, which is patently absurd. Those same politicians would throw a fit if they heard that Eiria was even remotely being accused of being imperialist or exploitative, even by politicians who they'd agree with. Such is the irony of politics, I guess."
"I am honestly surprised and amused at how quickly our own politicians are learning how to play the game.” Yauhmi finished the last of her meal and set down her fork. “One would think we had been operating as a democracy for ages, with the way the parties back home are going at it.”
William Lancaster nodded as he cut up his last dumpling. "I guess some facets of deliberation are just so natural that they are easy to pick up on. There's a comment about human nature in there somewhere, but that's probably more suitable for a university philosophy course, so I'll restrain myself."
The Vice Chancellor gave a small amused smile at the Minister's musings, before glancing at the empty plates around the table. "Well, shall we head to the next stop on our itinerary?" She looked between the Huenyan women with a look of curiosity. "Have either of you been to the Huenyan neighborhood of the Seventh District before?"
"I don’t believe we have,” Yauhmi replied. “That would be a very interesting place to visit.”
“Definitely. It’s always interesting to see how different cultures interact and grow.” Tlalmaxxi’s slightly pensive expression had been replaced by a grin.
"Very true. It is truly an amazing place. Well, let's head there now, before the Solar Guard agents change their mind about allowing us to."
---
Nestled in Eiria's busy Seventh District, the neighborhood of Norduenyaceda Jēun (literally "Young Huenya-town") was a stunning and thriving example of cultural syncretism. Huge multilingual signs were hanging from every place they could, and street vendors shouted offers in both Eirian and Huenyan. Even the architecture reflected a mix of cultural styles. And summmarizing the vibrant district, a large open gate towered over everyone entering the neighborhood, enscribed with a phrase in both Huenyan and Eirian: "Kur leis duv arana un ut lei un es mēu."
Where the two are one, and the one is more.
"How beautiful,” Yauhmi said a broad smile on her face. “This is the sort of place I would love to see in Huenya someday.”
Tlalmaxxi simply nodded, a big smile on her face as well as she looked around.
"It is amazing, even when you can only understand around half of what's being communicated." Morrin looked from building to building, hypnotized by the architecture and colorful signs. "It's amazing, that even when nations have been rivals for centuries, these communities still thrive while being caught between them."
"It really is an outstanding spirit of cooperation. This is an example of the sort of nation that we want Huenya to become,” Yauhmi said as they walked into the neighborhood. Upon sight of the two Huenyan royals, many of the people in the immediate area began to cheer. Yauhmi began to greet people, waving and smiling. Tlalmaxxi was doing the same. But the younger Huenyan was noticing things that Yauhmi, in her excitement, had overlooked. While most of the people gathering around them were happy and pleased, there were several surly faces in the crowd. Tlalmaxxi kept the smile on her face as she waved, but her security agent-honed sixth sense was buzzing at top volume in her head.
"New Riga has a bunch of these types of neighborhoods, but this is the largest by far. We'll be meeting with a couple of district council members in Texotepetl Park, which is right at the end of this street. Apologies that we couldn't take the car into the neighborhood, but we thought you'd enjoy the added affect." As Alice Lancaster spoke to the women and Lynn Morrin led the way through the street, William Lancaster was sharing similar thoughts to Tlalmaxxi, only a little more visibly, walking in lockstep with a Solar Guard agent. He forced himself to maintain his smile, however, not wanting to scare their guests due to his unfounded worries.
Just before the group arrived at the park, however, those worries would prove to be valid. Tlalmaxxi noticed, before Yauhmi, that several of the more disgruntled-looking Huenyans in the crowd had formed a clot outside the park. The group began shouting at Yauhmi and Tlalmaxxi to go home, as the rest of the crowd was shocked into silence. A grim-faced shopkeeper stepped forward, pointing a finger at Yauhmi and Tlalmaxxi. "You are not welcome here! Your presence soils this place! Go away!" he demanded.
The rest of the crowd began to boo in response. "How dare you speak to them that way! This is the nantzintli and cihuātlahtoāni of Huenya you are addressing!" an older man yelled. The grim-faced man turned towards him. "And why am I supposed to honor them? They are as guilty as any Imperial of crimes." He turned back to Yauhmi. "You were an Imperial Prosecutor, and then the wife of Topilpopoca. And you," he added, pointing at Tlalmaxxi, "served ASI before you married Texōccoatl. How many innocent Huenyans did the two of you send to their graves before you had a sudden change of heart just because Yauhmi got a taste of her own medicine?"
Tlalmaxxi, her expression darkening, stepped closer to Yauhmi as the angry shopkeeper continued to berate them both. Yauhmi's expression was drawn and pale as he shouted at her. "You both should be sent before the CNR, or LIDUN, for your crimes!"
The shopkeeper then turned to the Eirians. "Forgive me for this outburst. I mean no disrespect to you. Eiria has given us a home, and we are grateful for it. But what I have said needed to be said. You must understand that Yauhmi and her family are not people a civilized and democratic state such as Eiria should be treating with any kind of respect!"
The Eirians were flabbergasted, stunned into brief silence. Lynn Morrin regained her wits first, addressing the gathered group. "I understand your grievances, however, Caxcana as a whole is in an incredibly perilous state right now. Calhualyana's overreach threatens us all, and we need allies wherever we can find them. Would you all rather us give up the first chance that Huenya has had at democracy for centuries, and by extension, sign our own eventual death warrant as our allies fall one by one? Civilization and democracy are the primary values of the UCS, and we either protect these values together, or we watch them get trampled on by an Empress who would have no remorse watching everything we have ever built get burnt to the ground." She glanced around at the crowd, before turning forward towards the end of the street, and beckoning that the rest of the leaders follow her.
The Huenyan delegation eagerly followed Morrin. Tlalmaxxi’s baleful glare at the hecklers as she passed served to encourage the hecklers to move along, albeit with disgruntled murmurs under their breath. Yauhmi continued to greet people as she passed, but she was clearly shocked by the encounter.
"I'm sorry about that. We did not expect that type of reaction." After her passionate speech, Stendē had withdrawn back into a stoic facade. "Shall we proceed to the park, so we can make our appointment at the museum on time?"
The Huenyans agreed quickly, clearly seeking to put the embarrassment of their rough welcome behind them. The rest of the visit was a whirlwind of diplomacy and hand-shaking with the locals, and plenty of photo opportunities. Yauhmi and Tlalmaxxi got through it relatively unscathed, thanking their gods for no further disruptions.
Later, back at her hotel room, Yauhmi played her least-favorite game of late: tallying up the good and bad moments. It had been highly unsettling to encounter her angry hecklers, especially since it reminded her too well of those back in Huenya who wanted her family to have no role or place whatsoever in the government or even the country. But Huenya had shored up its relationship with Eiria, and worked out a game plan for how to confront Calhualyana moving forward. That, for now, was good enough.
Tiruma International Airport, Outside New Riga, Eiria
The private hangars of New Riga's primary airport had never been so secure. Both Solar Guard and TAA(Transport Defense Agency) agents were posted at every entrance and corner, ensuring the utmost security for the arriving dignitaries.
Vice Chancellor Lynn Morrin stood towards the front of the hanger, watching the Huenyan transport plane taxi towards the hangar. She had donned a very respectful, diplomatic expression, almost looking forward to meeting their guests. Not the best of jobs, but hey, it's definitely better than babysitting Senators or putting out political fires.
She was flanked by both of the Ministers Lancaster, who were dressed in matching navy suits. The pair appeared organized and welcoming, completely prepared to host Yauhmi and Tlalmaxxi for friendly diplomatic discussions. However, both of them were slightly uneasy, eyeing the Vice Chancellor with a shared look of mild apprehension. Morrin's debate skills and temper were both famous and infamous in Eirian political circles. She's brilliant, but she's never hosted a diplomatic discussion before. How is she going to handle this?
The Huenyan military plane finally came to a halt, and a set of stairs was rolled up to the plane as a door opened. First was the requisite Huenyan security in the form of several FIS agents wearing dark blue suits. Then Yauhmi came down the stairs, in a plain blue dress. A simple gold chain with stones and gems native to Huenya worked into it was the only decoration she wore, the symbol of her new office. Behind her, Tlalmaxxi followed in a stylish blue and gold pantsuit of a style that she favored for ease of movement (and weapons concealment). When the group made it to where their hosts were waiting, Yauhmi smiled. “I am so happy to see my friends the Lancasters again,” she said, shaking their hands warmly. “Vice-Chancellor Morrin, I am privileged to have your presence as well. Thank you for meeting with us.”
The Vice-Chancellor gave a respectful nod after the former Empress addressed her. "Of course, Madame nantzintli. It's a pleasure to meet you." Morrin subconsciously adjusted her dark maroon pantsuit. "Chancellor Stendē sends her regards, and her apologies. A large union of healthcare workers in Geminus have gone on strike, so she got caught up mediating negotiations. She does hope that you enjoy your visit, though." She turned, gesturing for the Huenyans to follow her. "If you'll follow me, we have vehicles ready to take us to a nice lunch, where our discussion can begin."
As the group walked, Morrin gave a shallow bow to Tlalmaxxi, much to the appreciation of the Lancaster siblings. "It's a pleasure to meet you as well, Madame. Welcome to Eiria!"
"Your welcome honors us,” Tlalmaxxi replied as she returned the bow. Her soft voice was a striking contrast to the characteristically strong tones of Yauhmi.
"Of course. We're glad to host our trusted allies." Alice Lancaster replied with a characteristic smile. "Well, we're in for a treat. Elena's Lounge is famous. It's very traditional, they apparently treat everyone like royalty. If what I've heard is true, they don't have enough wall space for all of thier awards. We hope it's up to your standards!"
"I am sure it will be excellent,” Yauhmi replied. “Are they known for any specialties in particular?”
"Well, it's known for twists on very traditional dishes, especially seafood. Especially being so close to the port, it's reportedly some of the freshest seafood you can get in a proper restaurant." Alice Lancaster replied, as the group approached a series of secure vans. "Trust me, if what I've heard is true, you definitely won't regret making the trip out here."
---
The private room in Elena's Lounge was refined and well-lit, with paintings and wooden decor lining the walls. Waiters in traditional Halar robes brought the group of leaders to their table, serving them their drinks and delivering traditional appetizers, such as Duvmaize, and shrimp Pelmes dumplings in a flavorful sauce. After the servers had left, the Eirians sat down, gesturing for the Huenyans to do likewise.
Morrin inspected the table, giving an impressed nod. "Wow, more appetizers than I was expecting. Quite authentic too. I hope you both enjoy!"
Yauhmi and Tlalmaxxi both sat down and began sampling the various dishes. “Everything is excellent. I must get some of these recipes for my own chef if possible,” Yauhmi said after trying several of the dishes. Tlalmaxxi seemed especially pleased with the dumplings, echoing Yauhmi’s sentiment. “Our own chefs could add these recipes to their repertoire as well at the palace. It’s nice to try something different from our own cuisine once in a while. That’s one of the benefits of having a good relationship with your neighbors.”
"Very true. Some of the best, and some of the spiciest, food I've ever had has been from Huenyan restaurants and food stalls. Which reminds me..." Minister William Lancaster glanced between the dignitaries. "I believe the next stop is visiting an ethnic Huenyan neighborhood in the Seventh District, after we finish lunch. It's truly amazing how much our cultures have interacted over the centuries, even when nations weren't exactly on the best of terms. We have persevered through so much adversity, and now that we are allies, we can face the challenges of the future much more strongly. Although," the Minister of the UCS paused, a slight edge of humor entering his voice. "Who would've expected that almost all of our current problems could be traced back to a single woman? It's insane what the abuse of power can do."
"It’s also insane what one insane person can do,” Tlalmaxxi said with a grimace. “I’d eliminate the cause of the issue if I could, but I have been told that would be….problematic.”
Yauhmi laughed briefly in response; she knew exactly how Tlalmaxxi wanted to address the issue of Calhualyana. “As much as we might all want to take a more direct approach to the issue of that person, diplomacy must be our weapon of choice for now.”
"Exactly." The Vice Chancellor put down her drink. "The way that Xiomeran mercenaries have behaved in Auria is truly abhorrent, even by the limited intelligence that we possess. We must implore the international community to denounce these actions immediately. Bringing the issue in front of LIDUN should hopefully put Calhualyana on the defensive, and isolate any of her potential allies. But even the diplomatic fight will be a challenge." Morrin subconsciously glanced around the room. "She's going to fight us tooth and nail. Talk about an uphill battle."
"Our greater concern is that Calhualyana may be past the point of persuasion. She seems to be falling for her own propaganda about building a new Empire.” Tlalmaxxi had a pensive expression on her face as she spoke. “Unless the international community does put up a united and strong stance against her actions right now, it may not be enough to deter her and prevent a wider war. But if we can get this in front of LIDUN, and convince other leading nations to take whatever steps are necessary to deter her, perhaps we can avoid that.”
"I wholeheartedly agree. But we will need a united front in order to actually have an impact. While our allies may be quick to stand against Xiomera, other nations may be harder to convince." Morrin replied, prompting Alice Lancaster to cut in. "Yes, however, much of our work has already been done for us. Calhualyana's extremist actions have isolated many remaining allies, and if we make a coordinated effort, we will deter any potential allies that she would have left. May I suggest increased public showings of unity and diplomatic events, both inside the UCS and with democratic allies? Let us make Calhualyana's isolation abundantly clear to her."
"That sounds like a good place to start,” Yauhmi agreed. “As distasteful as it may be to deal with the allies she has found, we may also want to consider ways to isolate her from them. If we perhaps make overtures to Shuell and Iskiram to show that being allied with Calhualyana is a losing proposition in the long term, we may be able to isolate her even more.”
"A very solid plan. Even if Calhualyana isn't deterred by a lack of allies, it should hopefully help prevent her from waging another full-out war." Morrin sighed, glancing at her colleagues before addressing an apparent elephant in the room. "Unfortunately, despite how vigilantly our citizens are speaking out against Xiomeran imperialism, some Eirians are beginning to tire of war. And I can't exactly blame them. We've seen more war in the past ten years than we have for the entire rest of the history of the Republic. Calhualyana would be a fool if she didn't notice and take advantage of our citizen's war weariness. Even if we are successful with our liberation of Auria, we will be in no place to join a war, leaving us vulnerable if Calhualyana struck again."
"That is very understandable. You have been shouldering the burden of the issues in Caxcana for some time now. I would not be surprised if that was part of Calhualyana’s long-term strategy, to wear all of us down and make us more vulnerable,” Tlalmaxxi said soberly.
“This is why isolating her as much as possible, as quickly as possible, is so important,” Yauhmi added. “We should also begin reaching out beyond Caxcana to broaden our coalition.”
"Absolutely. Bringing Lauchenoiria and Laeral fully into our ranks at minimum will be a great start, though they may be weary of more war as well. Making pleas to other democracies will also greatly increase the influence that our messages will have." Alice Lancaster confidently spoke in reply, this being her area of expertise. "May I ask if you had any other particular areas in mind outside Caxcana, besides Laeral and Lauchenoiria?"
"Reaching out to the Maximusians and convincing them to place sanctions on Xiomera would be a good start. Sanctaria would also be a good contact. Wosteaque might also be good to bring into the group. Any countries that we can convince to sanction the Empire or limit trade with it, the better.”
"Perfect." As the Minister of Diplomacy took a bite of a Pelmes dumpling, her brother took up the mantle of conversation. "It is absolutely imperative that we work together on this. Although a sizeable majority of Eirians still support the UCS, we have been facing a vocal minority of... 'Union-Skeptics', I guess. Earlier this week, a conservative activist group filed a lawsuit, claiming that the formation of the UCS violates the sovereignty clause in our constitution. While it's highly likely that this case will be thrown out, it's an unfortunate fact that those discontent with the UCS are becoming more vocal with their opposition."
"I wish we could say we don’t have similar issues, but we do. There are some skeptics in Huenya who fear any kind of foreign ties after spending so long under Imperial domination. They’re opposed to the UCS, the partnership between Laeral and Huenya, and our own agreements. They are a small group, but also…..vocal.” Tlalmaxxi grimaced as she speared a dumpling.
"I do find it ironic that these groups are fighting against the UCS with similar means, but inverse motivations." Morrin noted with a glint of humor in her eyes. "Some of our politicians go on and on about Eiria 'being exploited' by our neighbors, which is patently absurd. Those same politicians would throw a fit if they heard that Eiria was even remotely being accused of being imperialist or exploitative, even by politicians who they'd agree with. Such is the irony of politics, I guess."
"I am honestly surprised and amused at how quickly our own politicians are learning how to play the game.” Yauhmi finished the last of her meal and set down her fork. “One would think we had been operating as a democracy for ages, with the way the parties back home are going at it.”
William Lancaster nodded as he cut up his last dumpling. "I guess some facets of deliberation are just so natural that they are easy to pick up on. There's a comment about human nature in there somewhere, but that's probably more suitable for a university philosophy course, so I'll restrain myself."
The Vice Chancellor gave a small amused smile at the Minister's musings, before glancing at the empty plates around the table. "Well, shall we head to the next stop on our itinerary?" She looked between the Huenyan women with a look of curiosity. "Have either of you been to the Huenyan neighborhood of the Seventh District before?"
"I don’t believe we have,” Yauhmi replied. “That would be a very interesting place to visit.”
“Definitely. It’s always interesting to see how different cultures interact and grow.” Tlalmaxxi’s slightly pensive expression had been replaced by a grin.
"Very true. It is truly an amazing place. Well, let's head there now, before the Solar Guard agents change their mind about allowing us to."
---
Nestled in Eiria's busy Seventh District, the neighborhood of Norduenyaceda Jēun (literally "Young Huenya-town") was a stunning and thriving example of cultural syncretism. Huge multilingual signs were hanging from every place they could, and street vendors shouted offers in both Eirian and Huenyan. Even the architecture reflected a mix of cultural styles. And summmarizing the vibrant district, a large open gate towered over everyone entering the neighborhood, enscribed with a phrase in both Huenyan and Eirian: "Kur leis duv arana un ut lei un es mēu."
Where the two are one, and the one is more.
"How beautiful,” Yauhmi said a broad smile on her face. “This is the sort of place I would love to see in Huenya someday.”
Tlalmaxxi simply nodded, a big smile on her face as well as she looked around.
"It is amazing, even when you can only understand around half of what's being communicated." Morrin looked from building to building, hypnotized by the architecture and colorful signs. "It's amazing, that even when nations have been rivals for centuries, these communities still thrive while being caught between them."
"It really is an outstanding spirit of cooperation. This is an example of the sort of nation that we want Huenya to become,” Yauhmi said as they walked into the neighborhood. Upon sight of the two Huenyan royals, many of the people in the immediate area began to cheer. Yauhmi began to greet people, waving and smiling. Tlalmaxxi was doing the same. But the younger Huenyan was noticing things that Yauhmi, in her excitement, had overlooked. While most of the people gathering around them were happy and pleased, there were several surly faces in the crowd. Tlalmaxxi kept the smile on her face as she waved, but her security agent-honed sixth sense was buzzing at top volume in her head.
"New Riga has a bunch of these types of neighborhoods, but this is the largest by far. We'll be meeting with a couple of district council members in Texotepetl Park, which is right at the end of this street. Apologies that we couldn't take the car into the neighborhood, but we thought you'd enjoy the added affect." As Alice Lancaster spoke to the women and Lynn Morrin led the way through the street, William Lancaster was sharing similar thoughts to Tlalmaxxi, only a little more visibly, walking in lockstep with a Solar Guard agent. He forced himself to maintain his smile, however, not wanting to scare their guests due to his unfounded worries.
Just before the group arrived at the park, however, those worries would prove to be valid. Tlalmaxxi noticed, before Yauhmi, that several of the more disgruntled-looking Huenyans in the crowd had formed a clot outside the park. The group began shouting at Yauhmi and Tlalmaxxi to go home, as the rest of the crowd was shocked into silence. A grim-faced shopkeeper stepped forward, pointing a finger at Yauhmi and Tlalmaxxi. "You are not welcome here! Your presence soils this place! Go away!" he demanded.
The rest of the crowd began to boo in response. "How dare you speak to them that way! This is the nantzintli and cihuātlahtoāni of Huenya you are addressing!" an older man yelled. The grim-faced man turned towards him. "And why am I supposed to honor them? They are as guilty as any Imperial of crimes." He turned back to Yauhmi. "You were an Imperial Prosecutor, and then the wife of Topilpopoca. And you," he added, pointing at Tlalmaxxi, "served ASI before you married Texōccoatl. How many innocent Huenyans did the two of you send to their graves before you had a sudden change of heart just because Yauhmi got a taste of her own medicine?"
Tlalmaxxi, her expression darkening, stepped closer to Yauhmi as the angry shopkeeper continued to berate them both. Yauhmi's expression was drawn and pale as he shouted at her. "You both should be sent before the CNR, or LIDUN, for your crimes!"
The shopkeeper then turned to the Eirians. "Forgive me for this outburst. I mean no disrespect to you. Eiria has given us a home, and we are grateful for it. But what I have said needed to be said. You must understand that Yauhmi and her family are not people a civilized and democratic state such as Eiria should be treating with any kind of respect!"
The Eirians were flabbergasted, stunned into brief silence. Lynn Morrin regained her wits first, addressing the gathered group. "I understand your grievances, however, Caxcana as a whole is in an incredibly perilous state right now. Calhualyana's overreach threatens us all, and we need allies wherever we can find them. Would you all rather us give up the first chance that Huenya has had at democracy for centuries, and by extension, sign our own eventual death warrant as our allies fall one by one? Civilization and democracy are the primary values of the UCS, and we either protect these values together, or we watch them get trampled on by an Empress who would have no remorse watching everything we have ever built get burnt to the ground." She glanced around at the crowd, before turning forward towards the end of the street, and beckoning that the rest of the leaders follow her.
The Huenyan delegation eagerly followed Morrin. Tlalmaxxi’s baleful glare at the hecklers as she passed served to encourage the hecklers to move along, albeit with disgruntled murmurs under their breath. Yauhmi continued to greet people as she passed, but she was clearly shocked by the encounter.
"I'm sorry about that. We did not expect that type of reaction." After her passionate speech, Stendē had withdrawn back into a stoic facade. "Shall we proceed to the park, so we can make our appointment at the museum on time?"
The Huenyans agreed quickly, clearly seeking to put the embarrassment of their rough welcome behind them. The rest of the visit was a whirlwind of diplomacy and hand-shaking with the locals, and plenty of photo opportunities. Yauhmi and Tlalmaxxi got through it relatively unscathed, thanking their gods for no further disruptions.
Later, back at her hotel room, Yauhmi played her least-favorite game of late: tallying up the good and bad moments. It had been highly unsettling to encounter her angry hecklers, especially since it reminded her too well of those back in Huenya who wanted her family to have no role or place whatsoever in the government or even the country. But Huenya had shored up its relationship with Eiria, and worked out a game plan for how to confront Calhualyana moving forward. That, for now, was good enough.
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