Marisela Palace

[Oneida]

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Palacio de la Marisela
"From Here, No Kings Shall Reign"
​

The Palace of Marisela is the official residence and primary workplace of the President of the Aurarine Republic. The Palace is located in the Aravaca District of Solis near the Plaza de la República, which has served as the Capitol Building of the Republic since the Aurarine Revolution in 1819.

Marisela, like the Plaza of the Republic, is a former royal palace of the Aurarine Monarchy. It was common during the revolution for Republicans to storm and reclaim Royal Palaces as a symbolic gesture of the Monarchy’s collapse. The purpose of Marisela has changed numerous times throughout the Republican era, from a museum to the headquarters of the Ministry of Finance. President Gonzales relocated to the Palace in 1975 to house the Executive Branch’s growing staff and offices.

While serving as the residence and workplace of the President, Marisela is also where the Ministry of the Presidency, Office of the Chief of Staff, and Office of Communications are headquartered. Additionally, the Palace serves as a regular meeting place of the President’s Council of Ministers as well as generally a nerve center of the Aurarine Government.

Key Aurarine Government Figures:
Manuel Sanabria, President of the Republic
Susanna Petit, Chief of Staff to the President
Sebastián Paredes, Chief of Defense Staff
Arcelia Elizondo, Minister of Defense
Rodrigo Ferreiro, Minister of External Affairs
Abraham Varela, Consul of the National Court
Jordán Ramírez, Minister of Finance

 

[Oneida]

Strategic Response Center
Basement Level, North Wing
Marisela Palace
Solis, Auraria

Located in the basement of the North Wing of Marisela Palace, the SRC has gone from a tiny conference room in the 1970s to the nerve center of the Aurarine Government. The room had gone through significant renovations since its conception in the 70s. Today, there are three large conference rooms, several smaller ones, and one primary conference room that is normally reserved for meetings called by the President himself.

The SRC is run by the President’s National Security Council, serving as an intelligence center and national fusion center – combining timely and necessary information from across Auraria and the planet to provide three daily reports to the President and its advisors on any given situation. Between the available conference rooms and numerous agencies involved in the nation’s security, the SRC normally sees 400 people come and go each day.

Today was no different than any other, the President’s National Security Council was gathering into the principal conference room, colloquially referred to as “The Rectangle” due to its distinction as the only rectangular room in the SRC. The room’s south end had two doors flanking the sides of four large TV’s, which allowed for video conferences. In the middle of the room was a large conference table with nine seats around it. At the opposite end of the entrance, was one seat at the head of the table taller than the others and flanked by the Flag of the Republic on both sides. In the middle was a large, golden seal of the Republic. This, of course, was the seat of the President. Surrounding the conference table were chairs lined against the wall where the staff of the various Council members would sit while the meeting went on.

In the middle of the commotion, General Sebastián Paredes was paging through several documents that his staff had provided him. General Paredes, Chief of Defense Staff, is the highest ranking military officer in Auraria. He was a strong, tall man approaching 70 years of age – but certainly didn’t look it. General Paredes had served in this role for many years, advising many Presidents, on military strategy for the Republic. No one was quite sure where his political leanings were. His silence on the matter was deafening and perhaps one of the reasons he has survived so long in a position so critical to any administration.

Seated next to him was Defense Minister Arcelia Elizondo, a controversial choice for Minister of Defense. Elizondo was an intellectual by trade. A professor of international studies at Zamorano Academy – a posh, private liberal arts school that held a prestige in Auraria that few other universities could match. Ironically, perhaps, the school’s roots in nobility and hierarchy have made it a target of many of the factions that President Sanabria brought together to win the 2016 election.

Elizondo’s career also had her as an analyst at the National Bureau of Investigation for several years, eventually moving over to the National Intelligence Committee, again as an investigator. Impressively, however, she worked her way up the ranks and even served as Acting-Director of the Committee for several years.

Across from Elizondo was Rodrigo Ferreiro, Minister of External Affairs. Ferreiro was a quiet man, paying little attention to the commotion of the room and was far more focused in paging through the binders his staff provided. Ferreiro, in many ways, just looked like an older President Sanabria. At 51, the Minister had black hair, cut high and tight, with just a bit of gray in front. His dark eyes and darker complexion were atypical of his Gallaecian roots. Ferreiro, much like Elizondo, had an academic background with little government experience. He had served on numerous commissions that the Ministry of External Affairs convened – evening chairing a few – but this was his first genuine role in Government.

Together, Elizondo, Paredes, and Ferreiro made up the most senior members of the President’s National Security Council and thus sat closest to him in the regular meetings. Despite the three of them entrenched in their own business, they all immediately noticed when the door behind General Paredes opened and in walked President Sanabria. Immediately, the room rose to attention and all conversation ceased. The clock had just struck 8:55AM.

“Good Morning, at ease everyone,” the President uttered, swiftly unbuttoning his jacket and sitting into his chair in almost singular motion. The President’s staff filled in behind him, handing him shorten documents of the binders that the others brought. Shortly after the President, Chief of Staff Susanna Petit, sat in her seat next to Ferreiro. The two exchanged pleasantries as the President began.

“Thank you everyone,” he began “I know we provided brief notice of this meeting and I appreciate your attendance.” The President looked up from his briefing materials and leaned back in his chair, taking a quick scan of the entire room – which was silent in preparation for his words. “I believe it necessary now to sit down and address the situation that we find ourselves in. Trivodnia has fallen and Kadikistan has claimed yet another victory. Closer to the heart land of Gallo-Germania than before. This adds to the already problematic situation of the war in the Thaumantic, Serenierre’s invasion of Occitania, and the war in Virumaa. It is becoming increasingly apparent that this country can no longer rely on the Almanzores as our principal defensive strategy.”

The President looked to General Paredes, indicating he was the first to speak.

“Mr. President,” the General began “As you know, Serenierre’s usage of biological weapons has stunned many across the planet and caused great concern. The Eiffellanders are trying legal action, but they seemed to have their hands tied and I am doubtful that they have any avenue to pursue.”

“How prepared are we in the event that those weapons were used against us?” President Sanabria asked.

“We are addressed our training procedures and equipment on hand across Heredia to handle the fallout of the weapons from a medical standpoint,” Minister Elizondo replied “Hospitals in civilian centers are being equipped with treatments to what we suspect the Seren Military to have access to, but if I am to be honest an attack of that nature is something we’re vulnerable to.”

General Paredes nodded “We are addressing some response strategies and training officers accordingly, but I agree with Minsiter Elizondo.”

“I want a comprehensive response strategy drafted that can be applied to a variety of different attacks but is detailed enough to provide the exact roles and responsibilities of emergency personnel. It is our speed that will count,” the President added – both Paredes and Elizondo nodded as their staff scribbled down notes ferociously. “The situation in Virumaa?”

“Mr. President,” Minister Ferreiro began, removing his glasses “It does seem apparent that there will be a swift Nationalist victory. The capital is already under siege and it does not seem that Kadikistan has moved to stop their advance.”

“How does a nationalist victory there impact our situation here?” Sanabria asked.

The room was quiet for a bit before General Paredes leaned in with a sigh “Well,” he began “We do have evidence to suggest that the nationalist cause in Virumaa has sparked activity amongst the more radical parts of the population that should be cause for concern.”

“Aurarian?” Chief of Staff Petit asked, with a tone that was noticed by all in the room.

“Simply, Madam,” he replied “There are several citizens who have left the country for passage to Virumaa, presumably to fight in the war. We aren’t sure on numbers yet – nothing significant, but not negligible either. The primary focus, at the moment, is looking into whether or not these are the actions of a few individuals who are passionate or at the behest of a larger organization.”

“The Church, you mean?” President Sanabria asked, General Paredes nodded. “I want to know whether or not the Church is funding these expeditions…let me reiterate that anyone who fights for a foreign army forfeits their citizenship in the Republic.”

A staffer grabbed the president’s shoulder, leaned in, and whispered into his ear. As the staffer completed, the President closed his binder and stood up.

“Thank you,” he uttered “General Paredes, please prepare that information for me by close of business – if possible. Please discuss with Susanna if needed. Gentlemen, I want to know what we can do here besides issue a statement or assessments.”

The President then turned and left the room, the clock had barely struck 9:15AM. The President’s entire caravan of staff had departed with him. Elizondo looked to General Paredes.

“What do you think he means?” Elizondo asked.

“More funding,” General Paredes smirked at her. He rose and gathered his papers. “My office will be in contact with yours, we should get working swiftly. Good day, everyone.”

 

[Oneida]

President's Private Office
Level 1, North Wing
Marisela Palace
Solis, Auraria

President Sanabria heard a knock of his door “Come in,” the President called.

“Mr. President,” his Secretary stated “Minister Ramírez is here.”

“Send him in,” the President called, as he rose from his desk.

In walked the Minister of the Treasury, Jordán Ramírez. He was an elderly man, with a white combover and a beard that covered a good junk of his face. His glasses, which hung around the middle of his nose due to an improper fitting – were big and bulky, reflecting his poor eye sight. He was an average height man of average build, having a profile only slightly bigger than the President’s.

“Jordán,” the President called, shaking the Minister’s hand “Good to see you again, my friend.”

“Likewise, Manuel,” the Minister replied – one of the few who referred to the President by his first name.

“Thank you for coming,” the President continued “would you mind joining us?” the President gestured to the seating area across from his desk. Two couches, facing across from each other, and two arm chairs on the far end between them. The President always sat in the right arm chair and in the left was Abraham Varela, the Consul of the National Court. In the couch farthest from Ramírez was Chief of Staff Susanna Petit. A fireplace, which was not lit, sat behind the two arm chairs. On the mantel was a painting of the Allegory of the Republic. She was a woman in a white dress, with a red scarf. She was wearing a Phrygian cap, holding a scale in her left arm with a flag in the other. The flag was the purple, gold, and black – tricolor of the Republic. Behind her stood a lion, which at the time symbolized the Republic. It was one of the most famous paintings in the Republic’s history.

“My, my,” the Minister began taking his seat across from Petit “It seems like just yesterday we gathered to discuss the budget.”

“It is certainly a nonstop issue,” Consul Varela replied, with a smile. “Certainly,” the Minister replied.

“Jordán,” the President began – sitting with one leg over his other, not wearing a jacket and the first button of his shirt undone. It was a casual look he only had while in the privacy of his office “It’s around that time of year again that we need to present a budget to the National Court. I wanted to do something a little different this year than last.”

“Of course,” Ramírez nodded “As you know, the Ministries have done an incredible job of cutting costs through technological improvements. Each Ministry has dutifully reached the 3% reduction in costs for streamlining services. The initiative was very much so a success.”

“Yes,” Sanabria continued “I am of course happy about that and I believe that it will have a long-lasting impact on the financial health of the Government. This year I will make no such ask of the Ministries.”

The Minister nodded. While everyone would argue that the Aurarine bureaucracy desperately needed modernization, the Ministries did struggle to cut the costs to meet the President’s goal. They certainly weren’t anxious to go further. Still, it was a popular proposal and one of the few that Conservatives and the CNC agreed upon.

“What proposal would you like to make this year?” Minister Ramírez asked.

“I am going to propose to the National Court that the funds be made available to expand, train, and equip an additional 100,000 recruits to the Republican National Guard,” the President said bluntly.

Ramírez was stunned. “100,000?” he thought “that’s a 30% increase!” the Minister was unable to respond, simply sitting and staring at the President, who maintained a straight – and very serious – face.

“I know,” Sanabria continued “It is a large increase.”

“The largest in the history of Auraria,” Consul Varela chimed in – interrupting the President.

“Yes – the largest,” the President cut off Varela “and I know that it will be costly. To pay for it, without increasing taxes, I am going to propose that we flatline the budgets of every National Ministry, cancelling the annual increases.”

“Mr. President…” Ramírez remarked “That will significantly impact the function of the Ministries. You’re taking money out of Health, Welfare, and Transportation – to name a few – to bring in an additional 100,000 soldiers? Soldiers, Mr. President?”

“I am taking steps to ensure Auraria’s military readiness,” the President spoke, interrupted by Ramírez.

“Readiness for what?” he protested “Are you preparing for war? War with who? Are you going to invade Occitania, Serenierre, Warre, Al-Kez, who? For what?”

“I am ensuring that Auraria is not the next Trivodnia, the next Occitania, the next Al-Kez, the next Virumaa. We need to secure our strength in a world where security is an increasingly scarce commodity,” Sanabria’s tone was serious, monotone – he was firm in his belief and he wasn’t open to negotiation or discussion. Ramírez looked to Varela, who didn’t blink. He could feel Petit’s gaze and had no interest of meeting it.

“Mr. President,” Ramírez stated – switching to a more formal approach “We were going to do so much this year. Universal healthcare, universal pre-k, expanding educational opportunities, an infrastructure bill, we were going to accomplish long ignored projects.”

“We will empower the Provinces to take necessary steps,” Sanabria replied.

“Oh you know they won’t,” Ramírez was shaking his head “Gallaecia hasn’t improved its infrastructure in decades, Andaluz is too busy repealing abortion rights to build new schools. It’s far too concerned with whether or not creationism is science to be concerned with whether or not people with cancer can get proper medical care. Auraria needs the Coalition for Change to step up and be a fighter for the vulnerable. The reason they need us is because the Provinces have failed and the Conservatives don’t know they exist!”

“Jordán,” Petit tried to interrupt.

“No,” Ramírez shot back “This is not who we are. This is not how we motivated millions of voters across the country to rise up and choose a new path. You have been in office for two years and you’re already moving back to the same talking points that the military has warped Conservatives into believing for years!”

“3.5 to 1,” Sanabria spoke – solemnly.

“Excuse me?” Ramírez asked.’

“3.5 to 1,” he repeated “Do you know what that means?”

“No.”

“It means, for every one soldier that is commissioned under the Republican National Guard, Serenierre has 3.5. It is an overwhelming disadvantage, we cannot sustain that – we cannot answer to that. We are outclassed and we are outgunned. The Rurikgrad Pact has encroached ever closer into Gallo-Germania and it is only a matter of time before it becomes an issue we cannot ignore,” the President explained.

“100,000 extra soldiers won’t prevent that,” Ramírez shook his head “That won’t come any closer to stopping a chemical weapons attack.”

“It is a deterrent. Strength is the only thing that will keep our people safe and keep Serenierre out of our territory,” Sanabria reinforced his point “I will not sacrifice the security of our people.”

Minister Ramírez rose, pushed his glasses up and looked at the President.

“Respectfully,” he started “In 2016, I watched your speech. I watched when you announced the Coalition for Change. No one believed that such a thing could be successful and shockingly you now sit in the office you do. You brought hope, a feeling of change to this country. You showed an entire country that things do not need to be the way they are, that we could strive for something higher.”

“Minister Ramírez,” the President interrupted, in an agitated tone “Campaigning and governing are very different things. Every morning I wake up to being briefed by some new horror that threatens our people. We must be ready, we must be prepared, we must be capable of defending ourselves and showing the world that attacking our people, our sense of security, is the same as provoking the wrath of hell. We must do better.”

“No,” Ramírez cut off the President “What we need is for you to be better.”

The room was quiet. Ramírez and Sanabria stared at one another, neither making a comment.

“Mr. President,” Petit spoke “I believe your next appointment has arrived.”

“Yes,” Minister Ramírez answered “Do not let me keep you.”

The Minister walked out of the office.

 

[Oneida]

Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
Level 4 - Fidel Acosta Complex
Marisela Palace
Solis, Auraria

Valeria was certainly taken a back by the sheer speed she had been summoned to Marisela Palace. It was as though Marisela was aware of Crotobaltislavonia’s agreement before Valeria had informed them. The clock had barely stricken 9:10 when the Palace summoned her for a 9:30AM meeting with the Minister of External Affairs, Rodrigo Ferreiro. She had never met a government official of such a high stature, despite being president of humanos sin fronteras for four years. It wasn’t through lack of trying, but the Conservative Government that had dominated Auraria for years had little interest in hearing out what Valeria had to say.

“President Meléndez,” an aid opened a door into the waiting room “Minister Ferreiro is ready for you now, would you please follow me?”

Valeria smiled, grabbed her purse and dutifully followed the aid through the door. The hallways were buzzing with staffers, zooming back and forth to preform whatever duties assigned in the rather fast pace of the Ministry of External Affairs’ satellite office. All of the National Ministries had satellites offices in Marisela Palace so that each Minister could work with a full staff on days where it made no sense to brave the Solis traffic to get from building to building. A police escort, diverting traffic, could only last for so long before a revolutionary mob would amass.

Valeria was escorted into a larger, circular room that had a receptionst desk outside of two large Serenien doors, flanked by Aurarine Flags. There was a name plate on the right that read “The Honorable Rodrigo Ferreiro, Minister of Foregin Affairs.”

The receptionist smiled at Valeria, rose from her desk and knocked on the Minister’s door before entering. The receptionist popped out and smiled at Valeria “He’s ready!”

Valeria smiled and entered the office. The office certainly wasn’t ornate. In truth, it reminded her of some of the offices of higher-end non-profits that she had spent countless hours in lobbying for funds for HSF. The walls were adorned with degrees, newspaper articles, and photos of Minister Ferreiro with foreign diplomats. In the corner of the room was a large mahogany desk, where the Minister was seated.

“President Meléndez,” the Minister spoke “Thank you for coming on such short notice. I simply had to meet with you today and there were really no other options.”

“Of course, Minister,” she smiled back to him.

He motioned to a chair on the other side of his desk, Valeria took her seat and set her purse down next to her.

“You’ve done very well,” the Minister told her “I want you to know that the President is thankful for your actions. In truth, we weren’t sure if you would be able to convince the Crotobaltislavonians to allow aid in.”

“I am happy to have helped,” she said, uneasy. The Minister smiled, and then slid a manila folder closer to her. She grabbed him with some hesitation.

“There are fifty individuals in that folder that you will include on your team into Crotobaltislavonia,” the Minister stated “Obviously their backgrounds are doctored and their real identities is none of either of our concerns. Certainly, your discretion is appreciated. Worry not about setting any flags amongst your organization, all fifty of these individuals already have been working for HSF.”

“They are?” Valeria asked, concerned at the prospect of government agents in HSF.

“They’re all trained professionals with a job to do,” the Minister repeated “All in the name of the Republic.”

Valeria moved to put her hand on the folder, but the Minister quickly put his down with force.

“I don’t need to stress to you the importance of the contents of this folder being kept confidential, do I?” the Minister’s tone was serious, uncompromising “Follow the procedures that we have lined out and everything would be fine. If these men are compromised, your entire team will be compromised. A leak endangers all of us and we are putting a lot of faith – and money – into this project.”

Admittedly, Valeria was uncomfortable with the arrangement. That didn’t surprise anyone and she figured, correctly, that the Government would pay little attention to her discomfort. The funding that the Government offered for HSF was not only extremely generous, but a five-year commitment. It would be enough to put HSF in the black for years, alleviating a stress that had turned her blonde hair gray.

“You promise that they will be safe?” she asked.

“Of course,” Minister Ferreiro replied “We’ve gone beyond necessary precaution to ensure it. Simply follow what we’re asking you to follow and everything will be fine.”

“And the money?”

“Will be paid in full,” the Minister assured “In the same fashion that we agreed.”

“Thank you,” she said, as the Minister released his grip of the folder. She placed it into her purse and zipped it, not even taking a glance at what was inside.

“I am, of course,” Valeria hesitated “Happy to assist in whatever what I can to ensure the country’s security, but HSF is not a military organization – it isn’t an intelligence agency. This shouldn’t be our new normal.”

“Sometimes,” Minister Ferreiro replied “Service requires us to do things we may not be comfortable to do. We have an agreement, we can discuss the future in the future. Do you have any questions for me, Mrs. Meléndez?”

“No, I believe I am okay for now.”

“Excellent, my assistant Rhonda will show you out,” the Minister gestured to his assistant, who was already positioned to lead Valeria out. As soon as she left, the Minister’s Special Assistant, Alfonso Benítez entered.

“Minister,” Alfonso stated, sitting down in the same seat that Valeria took. The Minister nodded in acknowledgement. “Do you think she’ll get the job done?”

“Of course I do,” the Minister answered “I wouldn’t have brought her in here or gone this far had I believed that she couldn’t accomplish the task.”

“Do you trust her?” Alfonso asked.

“Yes, completely,” Minister Ferriero answered, in a confidence that made Alfonso skeptical “But, as with all things, I have taken the necessary precautions to verify that my trust is properly placed. We have a wonderful opportunity here to get boots on the ground. Inform Petit’s Office that we are proceeding.”

Alfonso nodded and existed the Minister’s Office.

 

[Oneida]

Strategic Response Center
Basement Level, North Wing
Marisela Palace
Solis,

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The Strategic Response Center was buzzing with activity as staff of the Ministry of Defense was joined by the Aurarian Aerospace Science and Technology Center (AASTC) and the Aurarine Republican Army Rocket Force. Behind the conference room, across from the seat of the President, was a large screen showing a map of Auraria. The large mahagony doors were opened amid the activity and in walked the Minster of Defense, Areclia Elizondro and President Sanabria. As soon as the two entered, the room fell silent and the military immediately saluted in attention.

“At ease,” the President commanded, unbuttoning his jacket and taking his seat.

“Mr. President,” General Paredes began “It has long be established that the entrance of the Long Sea has been of critical importance not only to global trade but to the national security of Auraria.”

The President nodded.

“Assessments of defense strategies have long been the focus of studies conducted by the Republican Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Ministry of Defense as a whole. The General Pasqual Montiel Naval Base established in Amusco was designed specifically to reinforce the Republic’s control over the western entrance to the Long Sea,” Paredes continued.

“Yes,” President Sanabria stated “and the Republican Navy charged with its defense, I am aware of the stated strategies, but why was this meeting called?”

“Well, Mr. President,” Paredes replied “Auraria’s Naval capability outpaces several nations along the Long Sea and has more than enough might to challenge foes. However, the Pelasgian Navy boasts a strong presence on paper – even if it has never been used in combat – whereas the Engellexic Navy has proven its presence in the Thaumantic and ability to enforce its will. Our accessmenets would indicate that, on paper at least, the Aurarian Navy would be outclassed by the Pelasgians and the Engellexic in a sustained conflict.”

“We’re sure of this?” President Sanabria asked “How sustained a conflict?”

“Over the years, Auraria has changed its naval strategy to the production of smaller, faster ships that are easier to produce and, well, pack a lighter blow if destroyed. Essentially it means we can put more resources in play and should things produce an undesirable response, the impact on military operations as a whole could be minimized. Today we are proposing an additional step in that process.”

President Sanabria nodded and leaned back in his chair “Go on,” he stated.

“Mr. President, we are proposing the construction of Project Steel Saber,” General Paredes declared, Sanabria raised an eyebrow to the admittedly cheesy name “The System is a new network of anti-ship ballistic missiles designed to hit any ship coming in too close to the Aurarian coast. Using an exceptionally high number of missiles to launch at enemy ships, the idea is to overwhelm the enemy’s defenses and destroy ships at sea without engaging our own naval assets.”

“The purely defensive system is designed to nullify numerical advantages held by foreign powers in the Long Sea,” Minister Elizondro chimed in “The systms would be placed in Las Palmas, Amusco, and Cartagena in a trifecta which would maximize the reach of our missiles. Under the cover of Steel Saber, we are confident that Aurarian Naval assets can operate with greater strength and engage larger fleets more effectively.”

“Do these systems not already exist?” President Sanabria requested “What makes this any different from current defenses?”

“Yes,” General Paredes replied “We do have installations lining the coasts, but this system is of a scale and complexity we do not currently have. Steel Saber will be as much a defensive weapon as it is offensive. We will make it hell for enemy vessels to operate too closely to Aurarian territory.”

“And we have plans for implementing the installations and the funding has already been approved?” President Sanabria continued.

“Yes, extensive plans,” Minister Elizondro passed a folder to the President, whom he immediately passed to his Chief of Staff Susanna. “The project, as all projects, does not come cheap and will require some manpower to sufficiently install. However, we are confident that the increase in defensive capabilities far outweighs this cost.”

“Agreed,” President Sanabria rose from his seat “You have my approval, begin construction promptly.”

“Thank you, Mr. President,” General Paredes responded.

 

[Oneida]

President's Private Office
Level 1, North Wing
Marisela Palace
Solis,

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“We’ve managed our members to a fare-thee-well. You have had no defections from the Workers’ Collective to challenge you. Whereas, what you’ve promised, where the hell are any of the results?” said Deputy Joaquin Domínquez, Floor Leader of the Workers’ Collective.

“You have had a seat at the table since Day one to today, every day I have ensured your party’s representation in our coalition,” Consul Varela replied.

“A seat at what table, Mr. Varela,” Domínquez dismissed, shaking his hands “Simply inviting us to a meeting or CC’ing me on an e-mail hardly constitutes the decision-making apparatus of your government, while it is extremely reflective of your philosophy on the participation of my party in your Government.”

“Do not bullshit me in front of the President, Joaquin,” Varela barked back “every week we meet, every week we strategize. Every week we determine what proprieties to bring to the floor. I take every single one of your ideas, no matter how completely baseless, bring them to the other four party leaders I need to bend over to. I hope we find a consensus there and then I take that consensus to the President who I pray signs off as well. Do not sit here and pretend I am silencing your voice.”

President Sanabria was sitting perpendicular to the two men who were in a screaming match in front of him. In truth, he had stopped paying attention to the substance of their conversation long ago. Now all he could hear was their yelling with no distinct words or conveyance of thought. “This is my life now,” he thought to himself.

“This whole thing, everything we have strived to accomplish you are prepared to sacrifice. For what?” Varela asked, with no intention of getting an answer.

“For the principle of the people I represent, for the mandate I received when I was elected to this body,” Domínquez shouted back at Varela.

“I don’t need your god damn talking points Joaquin,” Varela leaned back in the couch, growing more and more tense “You know damn well what you’re doing.”

“I was promised that we would achieve something higher and greater than ever before. You think I don’t know that he,” Joaquin pointed to the President “denied Minister Ramirez’s resignation letter after he betrayed the Finance Ministry’s trust on the budget? You think that’s some kind of secret? Is that the kind of politics you intend to perpetuate in Solis? The same kind of backstabbing, arm twisting, hardline bullshit?”

The screaming continued to descend into nothing more than just sounds. Occasionally, a word would come forth, but there was no substance that Sanabria was willing, or even physically capable of putting together.

“Enough!” the president yelled, immediately catching the attention of the two bickering men in front of him “I cannot stand to hear any of this anymore. I cannot accomplish a damn thing of any human meaning or worth while I sit here and listen to the two of you yell at one another.”

“Mr. President,” Varela’s comment was waved off by Sanabria.

“I don’t know what I need to do to convince either of you of the necessity of this government’s unity over your petty disagreements. I am not sure if its your hubris or some aspiration of a higher office, Joaquin, but it was not more than one decíma* since you signed an agreement in this very office to put your members in the affirmative and pass this budget so we can move the hell on.”

“Sixteen people were murdered,” Joaquin replied.

“Sixteen people will die today, tomorrow, and the next,” Sanabria cut him off again “What the fuck would you have me do? Would you like me to send thousands of Aurarian Soldiers to the shores of Justosia with a budget you just killed and have them wage war because some asinine, nonsensical King committed an atrocity? Am I now responsible for governing not kust this republic but every damn nation of this earth? Do you want me to issue some harshly worded letter that will result in the Justosian Foreign Ministry screaming at us over Twatter?”

The two men were silent.

“You have forty-eight hours before Ibarra proposes the vote of no confidence. He has the votes necessary to bring it to the floor. You will go back to your caucus, you will rescind your statement, and you will pass this fucking budget as you will pay any and all other legislation proposed by this coalition,” Sanabria ordered “Now get out, and get me my votes.”

“If you’re not willing to stand for what is right, then perhaps it is time for the people to choose again who shall lead them,” Joaquin replied.

“Very well,” Sanabria answered “If I don’t get my votes in forty-eight hours, the first thing I will do is dismiss the National Court and call a snap election. And I swear to you, on all my strength and ability, I will make sure that you never see the office of any elected official in this Republic ever again. Get my votes or get the hell out of this city.”

“Mr. President,” Varela spoke once more.

“Get out,” he commanded.

*Decíma is a week in the Aurarian Republican Calendar.

 

[Oneida]

Strategic Response Center
Basement Level, North Wing
Marisela Palace
Solis,

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The SRC was again abuzz with activity as staff continuously exchanged documents in preparation to support their respective principals at the table. This meeting was to include Consul Varela, Minister Ferreiro of Foreign Affairs, Minister Elizondo of Defense, Chief of Defense Staff General Sebastián Paredes, and the President himself. When the President entered, the entire room stood at attention.

“At ease, gentlemen,” the President commanded, as he took his seat.

“Welcome, Mr. President,” General Paredes stated “I hope you had a nice time with your family over the holidays.”

“Thank you, General,” the President replied, opening a massive briefing binder “My family and I aren’t very religious, but I enjoyed the time with my kids. We have a long day ahead of us, what you do have for me General?”

“I wanted to take this opportunity to update all those gathered on Operation Condor and Iron Shield. First, let’s discuss Iron Shield,” the General stated, as a map of Crotobaltislavonia appeared behind him “Please direct your attention to page 37 in your briefing documents.”

“The man arrested in Crotobaltislavonia was Pablo Renaldo. He is 37, married, three children, lives in a rural village outside of Navales. This seems to have been a genuine instance of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. He’s lucky to be home in time for Christmas and he’s equally lucky the Slavonians released him. Perhaps he is most lucky, however, to not be one of our operatives in the area,” Paredes explained, changing the slides behind him to copies of Minister Ferreiro and Minister Jedreck’s letters. “Here we have a threat issued by the Slavonians. They claim to know about our operations in their territory.”

“Do they?” President Sanabria asked.

“Well, to be quite honest with you they’d be foolish not to suspect something. I think it extremely difficult to put the pieces together to find the fifty individuals we have there, but it shouldn’t take too much to discover that some pieces do not add up,” Paredes answered.

“I believe the true question is deterring how far we are willing to go should the Slavonians actually provoke us,” Minister Ferreiro interjected “The situation there is volatile and they of course have the Kadikistani pulling every string imaginable.”

“The Kadikistani respect strength,” President Sanabria suggested “Is there a benefit to openly provoking the Slavonians to gain the attention of the Kadikistani?”

“Yes,” Minister Elizondo of Defense replied “I would agree with that to a certain extent. At the risk of sounding out the obvious, we would need to be extremely careful. There is currently no power in Gallo-Germania aside from the Rurikgrad Pact, their hegemonic status may lend them to making more aggressive decisions.”

“To that end, we should rectify our relationship with the Engellexic Republic,” Minister Ferreiro replied “I understand the drama over what happened, but it’s a valuable and powerful ally that we need.”

“I am not here to talk about them today, Rodrigo,” the President dismissed – the others in the room nodded “Arcelia, General Pardes, Rodrigo, please develop a variety of strategies for response in Crotobaltislavonia should a continued provocation occur. I want to show strength and resolve – but I am not going to do something idiotic.”

“Excellent, Mr. President,” General Paredes answered “Now should we turn to Justosia, please go to page 71 in your materials.” Through the flipping of the pages, General Paredes changed the screen behind him to show a map of Justosia.

“Mr. President,” Minister Elizondo began “as you know, the BPA Toro and BPA Silencio have been operating off the coast of Justosia for eleven days. They arrived on schedule on 30 Ningemes (15 Dec) and have immediately begun operations. Justosia’s islands are very well guarded, their Navy runs almost constant patrols across their territorial waters.”

Images flipped to a picture of a Frigate taken from the periscope of a submarine.

“This is a Justosian Frigate that the BPA Silencio photographed. This range is within a kill shot, which bodes well for Auraria’s ability to strike against the Justosians – if need be. It also showcases how capable we are of getting close to Justosian military assets. As far as their carriers go, we have a generally good idea on where they are, but we have not yet ordered an approach. The carriers are bound to be better defended and if there’s a greater risk of discovery.”

“How great?” President Sanabria asked.

“I am confident in our sailors and our equipment, Mr. President,” General Paredes stated “I believe we can initiate an approach in stages. Something of this value will take time, but we need to know if we’re capable of sinking the ships.” The General was pointing to the image taken within kill shot range.

“I agree,” President Sanabria concluded “If we cannot strike at the core of Justosian military assets, then the entire operation is a waste of resources.”

“I agree,” Minister Elizondo stated “which is why I am going to request that it be expanded. These submarines are good for determining general shipping lanes and testing our strike capabilities, but I need to know what is going on inside their palaces. It’s clear that their psychosis is growing and they’re becoming more brash. I need to know why. I need boots on the ground.”

The President looked at Arcelia, and then shot a look to General Paredes and Rodrigo – both of them nodded in agreement.

“They’ll have counter measures in place,” President Sanabria said.

“Of course, they will,” General Paredes answered “But we’re smarter than that. I ask for faith Mr. President, or in your case – trust.”

“I have faith and trust in each of you, otherwise you wouldn’t be in the room. Go, it’s approved. Put boots on the ground in Justosia, but get me valuable information on them. I want know everything down to when his Royal Highness is shitting.”

President Sanabria stood up, causing the room to stand alongside him. “Dismissed,” he called, exiting the SRC.

@Justosia @Crotobaltislavonia

 

[Oneida]

Strategic Response Center
Basement Level, North Wing
Marisela Palace
Solis,

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“So what the fuck are we doing here, gentlemen?” the President threw down his briefing materials and looked at the group.

“Mr. President,” General Paredes began “At approximately 13:45, the BPA Silencio was detected during a surveillance operation just inside of the Justosian EEZ. There were freighters that we believed had a military purpose in connection to the western archipelago. This was a part of general observations of the Justosian supply lines. The BPA Toro was operating deeper within the Justosian EEZ, toward the Northwest Shore, about 177 kilometers (110 miles) from the Justosian coast. We believe that the Silencio’s detection, and the heighten state of awareness that followed cause the Toro’s far more dangerous mission to be detected.”

“What of the Justosian JNN report is true?” Sanabria asked.

“Little, in all honestly,” General Paredes responded.

“JNN is a known propaganda network,” Minister Ferreiro replied “it deals mainly with propaganda rather than facts.”

“However,” General Paredes replied, flipping through slides on the screen behind him “It did do a decent job of showing what the Justosian response would be. The Justosians reported that the submarines were hugging the coast, which is completely false and counter to even the most basic of military protocol. Secondly, the subs were never to travel together. They were to be kept a minimum of 800 kilometers (500 miles) apart at any given time. While both submarines were indeed detected by the Justosians, they were capable of returning to international waters. Whether or not the Justosians choose to pursue is their prerogative.”

“Two days ago I was asked to give orders to expand the program and now I’m being told we almost lost two subs,” President Sanabria stated.

“The program is a risk, Mr. President,” General Paredes answered “We all knew that going in. The Justosian King is violent and irrational. Detection could have led to serious consequences. This is part of the calculations, and even with this set back, our contingency plans are in place and our subs remain in free operation, undetected.”

“I want them to return to Natalia as soon as its calm enough. I imagine Justosian Waters will be too hot for the foreseeable future to continue the operation. Let’s lay low for a bit. Let’s draw up plans with what to tell the Natalians. It cannot get back to the Justosians that they’re helping us and we need to reassure any concerns that they have. Should consider sharing a significant amount of the data we’ve collected,” President Sanabria ordered.

“Yes sir,” General Paredes answered.

“Respectfully, Mr. President,” Minister Ferreiro interjected “I need to raise my voice in protest to this entire operation. The risks presented here have no reward. Justosia is not a threat to the Auraria and we shouldn’t be giving such attention to the ramblings of a mad man. We have genuine threats much, much closer to home. The Serenien, for one, the Kadikistani, the fact that we have fifty spies in Crotobaltislavonia that may have been uncovered and monitoring the ‘good faith’ of the Pelasgians. We need to cancel this operation, bring these assets home, and refocus on our national defenses.”

“Your protests are registered, Minister,” President Sanabria replied “Once these subs are back in Natalian ports, we will reassess the usefulness of Operation Condor. Until then, we stay the course. I need you to signal the Aurarian Embassy in Avalon. It’s time we send out info to confuse the Justosians are throw them off our scent.”

“Your orders?” the frustrated Minister asked.

“Inform them that business as usual is to continue. They are to make no mention of Condor, simply raise concerns with Solis about who the aggressor state could be. They need to act like there’s no concerns,” President Sanabria stated, rather obviously.

“Of course,” the Minister agreed.

“General,” the President stated “Inform me when the subs have returned, safely, to Natalia. Minister Ferreiro, please patch me through to Lord Protector Adrienne Stone.”

The men nodded and the President exited the room.

@Justosia @Natal

 

[Oneida]

“Thank you, thank you!” President Sanabria was grasping hands as he was walking down the barricades that lead directly to the exit of the theater. “I can’t hear a single word any of you are saying,” Sanarbia thought to himself as the people sung his praises, to him it all sounded like static. Finally, he arrived at the back of the line and the Republican Guard escorted him to the hallway. As the noise quieted, Sanabria gently rubbed his left ear.

“it certainly is loud in there,” Dieguito Fernan Badelas remarked.

“It can get so much worse,” Sanabria chuckled “You did good today, I hope you’re enjoying your time on the team. I’m clear to go to the Residence at Marisela Palace, correct?”

“Yes sir,” Dieguito replied “We’ll be departing Las Moreras at 8:00AM tomorrow.”

“Ah,” Sanabria chimed as if this wasn’t the seventh time he was told “Can we look into leaving at 9:30AM? Would be nice to have breakfast with my kids.”

“Catalina said no later than 9:00AM.”

“She is a tough one,” Sanabria laughed.

The group exited the building and to the Presidential motorcade. Red and blue lights were filling the night sky as they prepared for the short 13 minutes exact ride back to Marisela. Sanabria shook Dieguito’s hand and said he’d see him tomorrow. He then shook the hands of the members of the Republican Guard who were working the detail. Presidential Security Details exchanged regularly, it was always difficult for Sanabria to get a name to a face. The Guard then opened the door to the President’s vehicle and he hoped in. Sitting across from him were Susanna Petit, Chief of Staff, and General Sebastián Paredes, Chief of Defense Staff. Sanabria sighed, “Dieguito said I was on my way home.”

“You are,” Susanna replied “Don’t be mad at him, he didn’t know we were here.”

“Then I do not imagine we’re talking about anything light,” he undid his tie and took off his jacket. The vehicle jerked into motion as the motorcade made the journey back to Marisela “13 minutes.”

General Paredes handed the President an iNad pre-loaded with his briefing. The light of the tablet, glowing against Sanabria’s face became the only light in the limousine. The President’s eyes squinted to adjust to the light. “Lars?” he said.

“The country is becoming quite problematic,” General Paredes continued “In short, the country descended into a constitutional crisis over whether or not to recognize West Occitania as a separate political entity – something that is no longer up for the debate. The result ended up with the country amending its constitution to host foreign troops, Marino’s resignation, and a new Prime Minister who seems to be more aggressive than previous administrations.”

“This, combined with the country’s lack of regard for Auraria’s presence in Gallo-Germania raises significant concerns,” Susanna added “especially when you consider the country has been getting closer to the Anti-State. We are concerned that they will provide an avenue for Post-Delegationists to gain a foothold into the Germanian heartland.”

“Could this explain the sudden withdrawal from ECONAMS?” Sanabria asked.

“It is difficult to say,” Paredes answered “They certainly seem related. Overall, the Larisians are definitely altering behavior. I fear that they’re preparing for something larger. We don’t want them to be another Crotobaltislavonia.”

“Mhm,” the President mumbled in agreement, scrolling through the documents “It is truly fascinating how all these small countries find ways to cause such significant problems. Crotobaltislavonia, Trivodnia, Occitania, Pohjanmaa, and now Lars. Have we spoken with the Serenien on the matter?”

“It’s unclear how much they can be trusted,” Paredes answered.

“Never trust a Serenien,” Sanabria repeated an old Aurarian saying – Susanna nodded.

“I can reach out to some members of their team,” Susanna suggested “I don’t think this quite rises to the level of you or Martinique just yet.”

“Fair enough,” Sanabria replied “I need it to be understood that I will not tolerate the Larisians bringing any unbalance to this continent. We keep an eye on what they’re doing. Any evidence of military coordination with the Anti-State – I want to know about it.”

Pardes and Petit nodded in agreement.

“Tomorrow I want to talk with Ferriero about reaching out to the Engellexic. We will discuss how to deal with the Pohjanmaans. Let’s explore the West Engel Republic too,” Sanabria commanded.

“The situation in Westernesse is deteriorating with the Sylvanians, Cussians, and West Engels at the moment,” Paredes answered.

“Such simple brutes,” Sanabria sighed “Fine, but prepare some kind of briefing on that as well. I will speak to Ferreiro anyway. Susanna, please call me after you reach out to the Serenien.”

“Understood, Mr. President,” they both said in almost unison.

The motorcade pulled up in front of Marisela Palace. Sanabria handed the iNad back to Paredes. The President gathered his things as the Republican Guard prepared to transport the President inside the building.

“I’m going to go enjoy my evening with the Family,” the President said “The Mrs. said she cooked a surprise, have mercy on my soul.”

The group laughed.

@Lars @Touzen @Serenierre @Engellex

 

[Oneida]

West Facade
National Court Main Building
Solis, Auraria

Hadija Zamora walked out the doors of the National Court to her Eiffellander made Raimer Pamir, all black. It was a cold, damp day. Hadija was wearing a black pantsuit with a green shawl. On her lapel was a rose of ruby with a stem of gold, a lapel she wore regardless of the occasion. As she approached the vehicle, her driver exited and opened the door for her.

“This is not a traditional meeting place, Leader Zamora,” Joaquin Domínguez said to her, sitting on the other side of the passenger seat.

The Communist Leader sat in her seat and the door closed next to her. She looked to the Labor Leader next to her.

“I like to be a bit spontaneous,” she told him, smirking “I hope it wasn’t too much of an inconvenience for you.”

“No more than anything else,” Joaquin replied “Besides, we’re both heading to Solis International.”

“Right,” she answered “It’s not a far drive, so I suppose we should get to it. We know that this does not end with Varela in the Consul’s seat nor the Coalition for Change in existence. I spoke with Ibarra not long ago, he’ll call the vote of no confidence shortly. He isn’t confident he has the votes. Even if its popular to go against Varela, stability is something to speak for.”

“Ibarra spoke with you?” Joaquin was surprised, he was not a man to look for allies.

“He sees a common enemy,” she pulled her earrings out and placed them in a part of her purse “I told him he has my party’s votes. And I told him I’d get him yours.”

“Oh you did?” Domínguez chuckled “That confident?”

“What else are you to do?” She asked “Just sit in obscurity until some savvier, younger person takes your place? You’ve made moves, Joaquin, don’t waste it with complacency. You’ll vote to force the government’s resignation and you’ll take this fight to the polls.”

“Ibarra would never put the FNT in power, so why should I care?” he pressed.

“Because Ibarra won’t be Consul,” she was disheartened by the Laborer’s insinuation she would do anything to get Antonio Ibarra back in the Consul’s Seat “I will be Consul.”

 

[Oneida]

The Cigar Room
West Basement
Marisela Palace
Avenida de la República
28072 Solis

“Don’t look so stiff, Wararni,” Hadija smiled toward her assistant, Yousef. Wararni is the name of an Ancient King known for his fearlessness in battle. She had taken to nicknaming Yousef as such due to his exceptional talent at cutting short conversations she hated having. He was an excellent body man. Sadly, she feared, he wouldn’t be able to save her from this conversation.

Hadija had been brought through the back entrance of the Palace. It was significantly less glamorous, designed to be as nonchalant as possible. While even the prettiest of Auraria’s architecture failed to live up to even the simplest Elamran Girih, Marisela Palace was still known as being an awe-inspiring structure – a full display of Auraria’s wealth, prestige, and position. This hallway, however, reminded her of the back alleys she’d walk in Hadigualis’ Medinas during university to find bars that were certainly illegal. They were the best ones.

“Few people get to see the inner workings of Marisela,” she told Yousef “Fewer yet get to this side of it.”

“What an honor,” he scoffed – Hadjia shot a cheeky smile.

“Madam Delegate,” one of the Republican Guards pointed at a door “Right in there.”

“Thank you,” she said and turned to Yousef “Stay here, make sure there’s no interruptions…no matter what texts I send to you.”

She smiled at him and then turned back to the Guard and nodded. He bowed his head and opened the door. In she walked.

The room was small, no windows, no glamor, just a tan floor with light green walls. Several paintings were hanging from the walls and there were two chairs with a coffee table in the middle. The mahogany wood against the red leather upholstery, secured by brace plates matched the scene of the room well. While the right was empty, on the left sat Manuel Sanabria. He rose as Hadija entered.

“Mr. President,” she called, extending her hand – he grabbed it.

“Madam Leader,” he replied “Thank you for taking the time to meet with me, may I offer you some tea?”

She noticed that the silver serving tray had the fixings for a traditional Elamran Green Mint Tea, a nice gesture. She nodded as the President moved to pour her a cup.

“I’m not one to deny the summons of the President of the Republic,” she told him as she took her seat – he laughed.

“No need for such formalities. You’re running an interesting campaign, Hadija. I just wanted to take the time to meet with you all, get to know you all better. It doesn’t seem very clear which one of you I’ll be working with for the next two years.”

“Thank you,” she answered – knowing full well the PAUO effectively killed President Sanabria’s beloved Coalition for Change “I think we’ve got a strong message that resonates well, which doesn’t surprise me – but the enthusiasm is very encouraging.”

“Of course,” he nodded – knowing full well a good majority of the PAUO’s message originated with the Coalition for Change “Quite a lot going on.”

“Yes well Culebria never bores.”

“Culebria?” Manuel paused “Is that truly such a common saying? You don’t hear it much here.”

“It is, in Elamra,” she replied “Auraria is Auraria, Elamra is Auraria. This Peninsula is the Culebrian…for us it is easiest to differentiate between the North and the Republic as a whole by calling it Culebria.”

“Mhm. Well, I certainly wouldn’t want to take too much of your time, all things considered. Time spent here doesn’t do you any sort of good in the elections. I asked you here because I want you to know that should you form the Government, I believe it best for us to remain a cohesive body, for the betterment of the country.”

“Of course,” Hadija sipped her tea “I want nothing less. I believe my staff has already been in contact about my federalization program—”

“Yes, it’s very ambitious...an entire constitutional convention?”

“The times call for ambition, Mr. President,” she answered the question that cut her off “Beyond that, the housing program—”

“Very Ostmarkian,” the President interrupted again.

“Humane,” she smiled. The President shrugged.

“What do you think of the Larisians’ proposal for sanctions against Serenierre and the Protectorate?” he asked.

“Well, if they aren’t going to pay for backstabbing the Republic I imagine they should for murdering children with chemical weapons,”Hadija leaned back in her chair “Neither seem the sort of thing one should forget.”

President Sanabria smiled and leaned in. His elbows resting on his thighs. He opened his hands as if to make an appeal to the Elamran.

“It’s more complicated than that,” he said “The Serenien are a more valuable ally than a moral high ground. War has its consequences and I don’t think we should dwell on that. What happened is unfortunate, but we need to think broader picture.”

“Yes,” Hadija sipped her tea “I will be sure to inform the mothers who buried their children that the broader picture must be considered.”

President Sanabria leaned back in his chair. He was visibly bothered by the comment and his body language adjusted to his anger. He huffed before closing his arms and lifting his right leg to rest over his left.

“Really?” he asked.

“I will not now, I will not in the future, and I certainly will not as Consul, allow this country to sacrifice what we were founded upon in order to not upset the Serenien. I am far too proud of my country for that,” she set her cup down on the table between them “I will not support the sanctions against Serenierre nor West Occitania – despite what they’ve done. However, if I am to be Consul and if I am to be responsible for guiding this country to the future – this will be the last time I turn my eye to that country and I will make that message very, very clear.”

“You feel strongly on that?”

“I feel strongly on our values. If we’re not fighting for them then why even fight. This country is the most enlightened in the world. The Serenien, Pohjanmaans, Larisians, nor the Far Easterners, will tear us down from that position.”

“You seem to have strong feelings on foreign policy.”

“I will be taking an active role in it,” Hadija picked her cup back up and took a sip.

“Oh?” Sanabria asked.

“Yes, which leads me to my second point – I believe you should formally leave the Social Democratic League and serve the remainder of your term as an independent.”

“Oh you do?” Sanabria was surprised at the suggestion “And why would I do that?”

“The circumstances, I think, command it. The President of the Republic should only be beholden to the Republic itself – not a representative of a political party, let alone a political party that lost virtually everything and will be removed from government. I think it provides you with an opportunity to save face in the changing political climate.”

“That so?” Sanabria was skeptical.

“Yes,” Hadija took her final sip “And also, should you decide not to, well…I will impeach you. I don’t want to, I genuinely like you and I think you’re doing a fair job. But I am prepared to.”

There was an awkward silence in the room as Zamora’s intense stare – even with her slight lazy eye – didn’t break focus on Manuel. The two sat for what seemed like hours before Manuel broke the silence.

“It’s been a pleasure, Hadija,” he said “I wish you nothing but the best at the ballot.”

“Always, Mr. President,” she rose and walked out of the room.

 

[Oneida]

Hótel Baylín
Palacio de la República

She had only been Consul for five hours at this point and they had been some of the most grueling hours of her life. Standing still in stuffy rooms as centuries old traditions needed to play out in an exact procedure that no one dared alter. Once the hours of standing were finished, she then had to pose with the fat cats of Solis that had spent significant capital to get their few seconds of fame with the first Elamran Consul, especially with the Mística del Sur.

No matter how progressive Aurarian society had evolved, there were those who thought it queer for a woman to hold the position of Consul, but even more so for the Elamran. For those of a particular taste for culture, they could identify her ties with the Azwunzug Tribe, or the Wind Walkers. As was the nature of a woman in politics, she knew that every step she took, every smile she gave, or hand she shook would be under a great scrutiny. She knew that many of the articles of this day would talk about her choice of a blue dress with silver jewelry rather than the national program she proposed.

That was all fine though, despite the annoyance she felt for the day, the fact remained that she was Consul.

Hótel Baylín, the Official Residence of the Consul, was located in the North Wing of the Palacio de la República, which was less a singular building and more a large complex of stately buildings that housed the National Court’s operations. Each building was connected by an underground tunnel system, but the Consul’s people were privy to a particular ornate and more direct line of tunnels. The echo of her high heels against the ground was welcomed after hours of cameras snapping and old men gawking at her appearance.

As she entered her new home, she took a minute to process what she had. Hótel Baylín, like the Palacio, were built at a time when the Aurarians spared no expense at architecture. The building was designed in the Aurarian Renaissance style when art, culture, and power were exemplified in the nation’s architecture. It was a Palace built to house the King of an Empire that spanned four continents. Columns, pediments, moldings, large murals, and sculptures seemed to be crammed in every nook that they could.

“Wow,” Yousef said to her, standing in the official reception room which had a large mural of the Battle of Coronado painted on its ceiling.

“Not a bad office,” she smirked at Yousef.

The group walked to her official office. Two members of the Republican Royal Guards opened the large mahogany doors into her Office.

“Madam Consul!” a woman yelled “Welcome to Hótel Baylín!”

“Thank you,” she smiled, extending her hand – which the woman enthusiastically grabbed.

“My name is Elizondra, and I have had the honor of serving as the Receptionist to the Consul for the past thirty years of my life. I look forward to serving you as well, the first Elamran!” the woman excitedly scurried to the back of the room and opened the two doors there as well.

“Come, come,” she motioned “You must see your office!” Hadija smiled and walked forward.

Her office was as immaculate as the building itself. A large, rectangular room had an entire wall as Serenien doors with curtains blocking too much sunlight. The view of the Palacio’s dome, which was coated in several tons of gold leaflets, shimmered in the Aurarian sun. Hadija didn’t speak as she took her seat at her desk.

“Madam,” the woman called to her “I don’t mean to take your moment from you, but I must instruct you as to your first task.”

She handed Hadija a blank piece of paper.

“Madam,” she took a serious tone “The first act of any Consul is to write the Letter of Final Order. In the event of a catastrophe on a scale that the Government in Solis is no longer responsive and the military is not capable of contacting – this letter will be unsealed and every it will give the orders in which the generals must execute. No one will see this letter, and if all goes well, no one ever will. I will leave you to write it.”

Hadija sat in her chair for what seemed to be a moment, but she had noticed that the sun had turned her office in a radiant orange as it began to set. She sighed, leaned in, and began writing the letter. Once finished, she sealed it and gave it to the receptionist – who dutifully handed it to the Republican Guard.

“Madam,” Yousef said “I don’t mean to interrupt, but you should prepare for the inaugural ball. We must leave soon.”

“Of course,” she said “Thank you.”

“Madam, if I may ask…what did you write?”

“Well,” Hadija looked out her windows to the dome once again “I authorized the military to do whatever it takes to kill the enemies of the Republic.”