The Pot Boils Over

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1

A heavy snow draped the capital city Pittsburgh, it was seven o’clock well past the city’s normal evening rush hour. An air of emptiness befell the area as people snuggled up in their warm homes protected from the blizzard strength winds and stinging snow…

However in the Gothic Penn tower that housed the bulk of Alleghenian government an emergency session of the Senate was taking place. A beleaguered President Gordon sat before the senate to answer for his failure. His dark blues eyes looked worried but thoughtful and his brown hair was beginning to become gray near the temples. He had been President for nearly 3 years now, half way though his term and now the challenges have finally presented themselves to him and he has failed miserably.

“Senate majority leader Sinclair has the floor.” The parliamentarian ordered.

Jack Sinclair was no longer the fat sweaty pile of nervousness he was months ago, he had lost an incredible amount of weight and was now a strong personality in the senate. Gordon had been able to bully him into giving him what he wanted before but now it was different.

“Mr. President you promised the corporations of this county a fertile trading ground and you have only partially fulfilled this promise with the new railroads leading into Vekaiyu and Listonia. However they are not purchasing as much as we had hoped and now we have ended up with a surplus goods due to an over enthusiastic approach to manufacturing and production.”

A large holographic map of Allegheny appeared in the middle of the room.

“As you can see here the Senate commission on economic health and stability has reported that the Eastern manufacturing heavy cities of the Union will be the hardest hit by the proposed layoffs. A mock vote has shown that a bailout is out of the question as taxpayers will move for votes of no confidence against their senators and replace them with ones who would remove any bailout imposed by the last member who served.”

The room filled with noise as the Senators began to talk amongst themselves, Gordon took this opportunity to speak. “Ms. Parliamentarian I ask that you let me speak my mind on this subject!”

The Parliamentarian nodded. “President Allen Gordon has the floor for three minutes.”

Gordon took a drag of his cigar and straightened his tie as he stood up.

“Ladies and Gentlemen of the Senate I ask that you hear me with an open mind. For the last three years I have led this country we have seen an unprecedented growth in wealth and our poverty level is nearing a record low of two percent. This is indeed a grave miscalculation on my part, but it can be fixed. Therefore, I ask that you authorize a communication to Vekaiyu and Listonia to re-negotiate the terms of our trade agreement.”

Sinclair laughed.

“You think they will hear us beg them to buy more? Lets not forget that your political rage against the communists has damaged our reputation with the Kelssekians even further, another potential trading partner that was bullied away from us. Who knows how damaged our reputation is with the other nations of the world.”

“If i may interject?!” Gordon yelled. “It was this very Senate that ordered and agreed with the raid and the bullying of Kelssek, don’t you dare try to make a fool of me for a favorable look for you on the transcripts of this meeting. All I ask for is the authorization of a communication. The only other option is a war to take by force what we cannot claim by right.”

Sinclair thought it over. “Then we shall build a consensus on this matter. I move to have a vote on for a communique to be sent to Vekaiyu and Listonia detailing a re-negotiation of our trading terms.”

An hour passed as the senators debated amongst themselves.

“The vote has been concluded and consensus was achieved, twenty Aye’s and seven nay’s. The communique is to be sent immediately.”

Official Communique from The Union Republic of Allegheny.
Forwarded to Stapen Evesuni of Listonia and Selvala McEva of Vekaiyu.

To our friends and trading partners,

The Union Republic’s economy has grown in size since our last trade agreement was signed and our need for goods that cannot be created in our nation has grown with it. Likewise we have also come across a surplus of goods that need to be sold or traded for. We would like to invite you to our great homeland to re-negotiate the terms of our agreement so that we may both benefit more from our relationship.

We await your return communication,

President Allen Gordon.
Communication authorized by Union Senate.

2

((OOC: The events building up to this can be explained in the Miscillaneous Events in Listonia thread))


An indicator on Stapen Evesuni’s computer beeped as he continued to rake his hair with his hands, holding it and closing his eyes. Still, his duty was a continuous call. He had to get it together, calm down, and return to the work that awaited him. He softly opened the screen up and checked his most recent email, rubbing his eyes in the process to keep them in focus.

— Begin quote from ____

To our friends and trading partners,

The Union Republic’s economy has grown in size since our last trade agreement was signed and our need for goods that cannot be created in our nation has grown with it. Likewise we have also come across a surplus of goods that need to be sold or traded for. We would like to invite you to our great homeland to re-negotiate the terms of our agreement so that we may both benefit more from our relationship.

We await your return communication,

President Allen Gordon.
Communication authorized by Union Senate.

— End quote

Evesuni blinked his eyes, the tattoo surrounding his right eye deforming with the sudden movement as one of his triangular ears twitched. He moved his hands into a typing position, and moved the laptop farther away, paying little attention to it grinding on the ridges on his desk. After all, he wasn’t a man that really understood technology - he never really needed to know too much anyway.

— Begin quote from ____

Kivo Allen Gordon,

In these current times, it would be wise to setup a re-negotiation of our agreement. Both of our nations have changed since our last meeting occurred, and importance should be placed upon fitting our nations with the needs they want and deserve. Name a time and details on the arraignment, and I will determine if it is feasible for my schedule.

  • Kivo Stapen Evesuni.

— End quote

As his spellchecker and grammar checker ran to ensure his message didn’t have any issues in regards to his English, he set the laptop down, rubbing his eyes as he leaned back in his chair. “I need sleep, but I can’t sleep,” he said as he held his breath while he stretched his arms. His mind churned as he debated on telling Ikrisia of the news, as it seemed to be addressed to Vekaiyu as well as Listonia, but he decided to sleep on it. Or, rest on it. Whichever came that night.

3

A great huff of smoke poured from the train as the wheels ground and sighed on the steel ties as it pulled into Carson Station. Evesuni kept his gaze out the window, paying close attention to the lifeless industrial sectors they passed on the way. The haze was good at hiding much of the wasteland in the distance, but the heavy machinery and large complexes were an interesting sight. Interesting from the apparent amount of pollution, but, then again, he wasn’t necessarily an expert on the subject. It gradually changed, however, to something more sophisticated. Proud buildings with a pseudo-Vekaiyun architecture began to acend into the air, until it appeared as if heaven were more for real estate than for clouds. Still, they didn’t climb that high, not as high as some buildings in Ye’leli or Cestinglavoiga, but still, high and apparently drenched in this odd architecture. And it wasn’t like he could tell what they meant either. The words went too fast for his mind to decipher from his poor English. At least one could make some sense with it. Bank was obviously a bank, and so on. But still, it was a discomfort to try and accept the fact that he truly was far from home, in a nation that didn’t quite accommodate his language or customs.

“Do you want me to get your bags?” Ikrisia asked.

“No,” he said, flashing a look at her. He dropped his eyes. “No. Let the guards grab them and move them wherever they’re instructed to do so.” He stood up, but the force from the train jerking to a halt caused him to crash back into the wall and his seat.

“Oh, dad!” She grabbed him by the side, but Evesuni quickly jerked away, glaring at her. “I’m sorry.”

Stapen sighed. “It’s okay. Just step off the train, I’ll be down eventually.” He grimaced as he picked up his cane. He hated having to use it. But, with the limousine explosion just two days after the fact, he needed it. He was still sore from the attack, and bruises took a little longer to heal. He tried to hide it, but his hip really bothered him. More of that “old man” stereotype. But he wasn’t old. He was 46. Not… too old. “When does your nation’s leader arrive?”

Ikrisia paused. “I haven’t heard much from her. A few hours, judging from what the train schedule said.”

Evesuni nodded. “Good enough.” He walked to the side door of the train, using the intricately-carved stick to keep his left leg from sliding. He groaned silently to himself when he noticed Ikrisia was waiting for him as he stepped off the train, probably there to help him down the steps, no doubt. “I can do it,” he muttered.

“Oh, okay.”

Frustrated, he lifted his cane and stuck it next to his side as he used the railing to step down, putting his right foot directly on Alleghenian soil for the first time in his life. He was surprised to see a collection of his own people already there. A few guards. A translator, it appeared. A secretary. What was this? He couldn’t do his own work suddenly? Why did he need all of this? He hobbled over and grabbed the translator by the hand. He forced his fist open and handed him his cane. “I’m not going to use this,” he replied in monotone Unonian. He continued to hobble forward, flanked by Ikrisia, who wore a semi-armored red, white, and black dress, signifying her status as Vekaiyu Kral Commodore. “Leave us,” he shouted to his guards, too tired and proud to hobble back and tell them. His translator and secretary followed, though.

Ikrisia reached the escort in front of the party. “Please take us to government building to see Kivo Gordon,” she said in her imperfect English. “Vekaiyun leader will be here shortly.”

4

“Right away!” The officer saluted and opened the door of armored limousine.

The vehicle departed the station upon a street that had been previously closed to make way for their VIP passengers, flanked by four motorcycle troopers. The closure of the road had caused massive traffic jams and tempers flared as they waited for the escort to pass through.

Penn Tower stood by itself, separated from the main portion of the downtown area protected by many checkpoints, it was the oldest building left in the city, the only one not to have been destroyed during the long civil war that raged many years ago, the only example of it’s type of architecture outside of East Allegheny, the rest of the city had been replaced with structures of glass and steel.

The convoy rolled up to the main foyer of the tower, the lobby was shrouded in silence as the group of officers escorted their important guests toward the elevators. Most of the senators were in their district offices far from the capital and many of the aides and workers were hidden away in offices on the upper floors as the senate was not in session. The President’s office lay at the top of the tower.

The elevator finally arrived at the top where at the back of series of chambers lay Allen Gordon’s office. The guards opened the door for Evesuni and Ikrisia and closed it behind them.

Gordon stood up and smiled at his newly arrived guests. “Chairman Evesuni! It’s good to see you once again.” He exclaimed.

"Ah yes, and you must be Vekaiyu’s Kral Commodore Ikrisia. It is an honor to meet such an esteemed military commander such as yourself!

A younger woman with sand colored hair had been standing off to the side of Gordon’s desk, she wore a black military uniform with many medals on her chest and a red military beret with 4 stars pinned to the front of the cap denoting her rank as Supreme Commander of all Alleghenian military forces. She looked upon them with a emotionless but relaxed stare and saluted the foreign leaders.

“Good evening, I am Supreme Commander Cassandra Phillips.”

Gordon motioned towards plush chairs. “Please everybody sit down. Tea? Cigar? Our cook has brewed a wonderful pot of tea for us, the best I have had in a long while! I hope you don’t mind but I would like to dispose of the grand titles every one here has, you may address me as Allen if you wish to do so and Ms. Phillips here is just Cassandra. I know it may seem informal but I like to keep my meetings as friendly as possible.”

5

Stapen Evesuni secretly cringed to himself. English was not his strong suit. While he could make out the words fairly well when they were written down, he was very limited in his abilities to speak it. He knew what the words meant, but as far as pronouncing them… that was where his Unonian tongue stuck out. “Yes, Eetees a plasoorey,” he muttered, knowing it didn’t sound quite right. “Plah-soo-reh,” he repeated again.

“Pleasure,” Ikrisia said as she stuck out her hand to address the President in a customary English greeting. “And the pleasure is all mine, President Gordon.”

Evesuni gave a silent nod and shook the man’s hand as well, knowing enough about the gestures, but it didn’t hurt to be reminded. Perhaps it was better to let Ikrisia lead in this time.

“Good evening, I am Supreme Commander Cassandra Phillips.”

The greeting by the female officer caught Evesuni off guard, who was still going over his English in his head. While Ikrisia gave a slight nod, Stapen chose to try and test English once more. “Neesay tumeet yoh-oo.” He was nothing without his translator. Why didn’t he have one of those electronic ones he heard about in Vekaiyu?

Gordon motioned towards plush chairs. “Please everybody sit down. Tea? Cigar? Our cook has brewed a wonderful pot of tea for us, the best I have had in a long while! I hope you don’t mind but I would like to dispose of the grand titles every one here has, you may address me as Allen if you wish to do so and Ms. Phillips here is just Cassandra. I know it may seem informal but I like to keep my meetings as friendly as possible.”

Stapen and Ikrisia both nodded.

“Thank you,” Ikrisia replied. “You have a wonderful nation from what we’ve seen. It’s quite breathtaking, and some parts remind me of home, but with a certain unique flavor. It’s interesting to see what lies beyond the Ta’lavero Mountains again.” She turned to Evesuni, who just nodded. “It is lovely to meet you in person as well. But I must apologize - Kivia McEva will arrive shortly. Her train has been delayed.”

Ikrisia paused as she looked over at her counterpart. “And I suppose we’ll both take tea,” she said with a smile. “But seriously now. I want to know what you’ve inquired us about. I didn’t hear much from Evesuni - just that it was regarding trade, something our nation would be very interested in, I’m sure.” She smiled again. “What did you have in mind?”

6

“Straight to business!” Gordon said with a slight chuckle.

"Well without dicussing too much without Ms. McEva, what we are looking for is new trade agreements with both your nations. In fact we hope to create a new pact of nations who will work together for our common interests both militarily and economically. With our nations in some way bordering or close to Packilvania and EPTO looking at Listonia with a quiet interest, it seems that this is the best option to maintain security for our parts of this continent. My goal here is to create a self sufficient trading and military bloc which will give our potential enemies pause! With this power we could fend off EPTO should they try to “keep the peace”.

Gordon took a small sip of his tea and continued.

“In a perfect world we could even bring the Packilvanians in on this as I’m sure that there disposition with the rest of this region is hurting them. However that is to be discussed in further detail when Ms. McEva arrives.”

Gordon took a drag of his cigar, “Before I forget, thank you for your kind words about our nation, I hope your trip through the east wasn’t that unpleasant.”

7

Ikrisia shook her head. “Not at all. The journey from Ye’leli to Pittsburgh wasn’t so bad. At least the snow is starting to melt. I have to say, though, the railway between our three nations runs pretty well. I only saw the west train citizen route, but I assume the others are much better.”

While Ikrisia was speaking, Evesuni whispered something to his translator, pointing to his ear in the process. She quickly stood up and walked out of the room. It was somewhat awkward, but Ikrisia was ready with another dose of tact.

“I believe a trade agreement would work wonders for our nations. As for Packilvania, there may be issues. I assume what is said here does not leave this conference room, but we are eying Packilvania’s lands near us to tap into their oil reserves and mining colonies. It would be best if we could somehow Vulpenify those lands, which will be an endeavor, as Packilvania itself is a very desolate nation devoid of most vegetation. There’s just one problem,” she added as Evesuni’s translator returned from the hallway and handed Evesuni a device, which he placed in his right ear. “We don’t want to go to war with Packilvania. So, whatever happens has to work out in such a way that we can gain those lands without causing infighting between our two nations.”

Evesuni could hear the last few sentences quite well when he switched his electronic translator on. “No nation should go to war with Packilvania,” he replied, knowing full well of the nation’s prowess.

“I’m not proposing that,” Ikrisia said as she turned to him. “Vekaiyu could use Packilvania’s southern lands for oil and resources.”

“And Listonia could use the corridor to Lake Miiyu. But that has been stagnant for a long time now.”

Ikrisia turned back to President Gordon. “You see, both our nations need parts of land to grow and become more powerful. Doing this would give us strength and an ability to prevent any infighting between goods. I agree that there’s a need for trade to prevent this monopoly the EPTO has on the realm, and it would be favorable to try to create something to rival it.”

Evesuni leaned back in his chair. “Maybe. But we have to be careful… especially with limiting our trading partners. Realistically, does a trade agreement of Packilvania, Listonia, Vekaiyu, and Allegheny make our four nations self-sufficient within our agreement, or do we need to gain more nations into this fold?”

8

Ikrisia turned back to President Gordon. “You see, both our nations need parts of land to grow and become more powerful. Doing this would give us strength and an ability to prevent any infighting between goods. I agree that there’s a need for trade to prevent this monopoly the EPTO has on the realm, and it would be favorable to try to create something to rival it.”

Gordon thought about this new information, "Indeed, I thank you for your honesty about this information. It seems we both are looking to gain land somewhere. We have been secretly planning and invasion of the Tasselvaltan lands for sometime now, but with Packilvania’s involvement in the region it may lead to a unnecessary conflict. You want their oilfields, Stapen needs a corridor and we need a land route to the sea. The only thing here that is preventing this from happening is Packilvania and in Listonia’s case Elephana and her Allies.

Gordon paused and pondered more and Cassandra took the opportunity to comment.

“Our military is strong but every scenario and simulation we have ran has led to a crushing defeat by the Packilvanian military, it just isn’t going to happen not through a means of violence.”

Gordon nodded in agreement, "Therefore we must either forget this or invite the Packilvanians to meet with us.

“As to your statement Stapen, that is not a question I can answer with our knowledge. I am assuming that we would not just limit this to ourselves. We should keep an open door policy to other nations who do not want to join the EPTO alliance.”

9

Evesuni nodded as he folded his hands in front of him, leaving his gloves on to prevent the exposure of his missing fur. He wasn’t entirely sure of how well the Alleghenians understood the demeanor of vulpine people, but regardless, showing missing patches of the thin coating of fur would probably be a bad idea anyway. “I have been watching the quarrels in your nation, and the best way to jump-start an economy is a war. Perhaps that is just what your nation needs.”

Ikrisia tried to speak, but couldn’t get a word in edgewise until Stapen finished speaking. “We’re having difficulty in dealing with Packilvania too. While we have a very strong military, it is no match for their prowess… trust me, I’ve stood up against some of their tanks in the past. It-” she stopped herself, and quickly cleared her throat. “I agree with you. Packilvania must be on board for this to work. But what can we offer him?”

“Grain,” Evesuni said as he lifted his head from the resting spot created by his hands. “They’re devoid of agriculture, yes?”

“But your nation has the grain, and we want the land.”

“Well, it seems our two nations should make a trade in of itself,” he replied with a slight grin. “Perhaps it will involve gaining that corridor for Listonia… but, I won’t say right now. It’s naive to create hundreds of plans and scenarios when the one essential part to this plan hasn’t even agreed to it, let alone been informed of it.”

“Well, we could at least brainstorm a plan in the meantime. Like draw up occupied zones and the likes, you know, how the realm’s map should appear after this has all been completed, and how we all arrive at our respective points for our nation.” She turned to the president. “Perhaps if we understood each others’ goals more, we could write up a better plan. What sort of territory did you have in mind specifically, Kivo Gordon?”

10

Gordon sipped upon is tea once again before answering. “I think this is a question better answered by Commander Phillips.”

“Thank you sir,” she acknowledged.

“Our plans were to invade Northern Tassevalta as you already know. The plan wasn’t to annex the entire land itself but to use the northern region to stage the real attack upon Osea in hopes of gaining their seafront real estate. It wasn’t clear to us how much control Packilvania wields over those lands. That is were our plans are stalled at the moment. Also know that the we are not looking to annex the entirety of Osea, we had a faint hope that with our might we could force what was left of Osea into being a vassal state, that way we didn’t have to wield full administrative power over the area and spread any needed peacekeeping forces too thinly.”

“That’s basically it without having to go deep into the tactical planning,” she said before clearing her throat.

11

“Fair enough,” Ikrisia replied as she set down her glass. “This will cause great disruptions in the region, but with Packilvanian backing, it should be enough to ward off any foreseeable problems-”

“I would like to see more nations join this bloc,” Evesuni interrupted. “All things considered, our four nations are within firing range of multiple other nations. While our rockets are operational, I don’t want to have to use them at any cost. Plus, Listonia would currently represent the easternmost nation in this agreement, which would make us prime targets for any strikes. That rests uneasy with me.”

Suddenly, the door to the conference room opened. By her own power, Selvala McEva opened the doors, then walked past them as the doors automatically drew to a closed position. Her heels clacked against the floor as she stepped up to the chair Ikrisia was sitting in, looking down at her. Ikrisia sighed to herself and pulled the chair out, standing up and letting Selvala take the seat next to Evesuni. Ikrisia found a seat slightly farther back.

“I apologize for the late flight. We had delays. Would someone care to enlighten me on the current status of these talks?”

Ikrisia ran her tongue over her teeth. “We’re brainstorming ideas for a trade and military alliance. It’s been going well so far.” She continued as Selvala opened her mouth. “They are aware of Vekaiyu’s desire to obtain territory in southern Packilvania.”

Selvala glared at the Kral Commodore. “Very well. As Ikrisia said, I suppose, it is our desire to take southern Packilvania. I’m not totally aware of what else has been said, but this would be impossible to do by force, as no one wants a war with Packilvania.”

“I’ve already explained all of this,” Ikrisia said as she sipped her tea, closing her eyes.

Selvala paused. “You should have waited for your superior to arrive,” she remarked.

“Anyway,” Stapen replied, “we have a framework, but an appropriate plan is needed. I feel once we have a solid plan, other nations will want to join. Packilvania has the soldier support. Vekaiyu and Allegheny have the manufacturing and technology basis. Listonia has agriculture, as does Tasselvalta. This appears to be the makings of an interesting union. Has Packilvania been contacted with any of this?”

12

“No Packilvania was not contacted. I didn’t want to risk exposing our plans to an unknown entity, this might slow down our creation process but I thought it would be better to have you all on-board with this “project”. I do however have a communique already drafted and ready to send to them.”

Gordon put out what was left of his cigar in a nearby ash tray.

“With that said, we can discuss this forever but we can’t make any real decisions until we know the game we are playing. I will give you the choice of leaving or staying as our guests as I have a feeling that the Packilvanians will get back to us sooner than we may anticipate. The Presidential apartment on the upper floors are available for use and there are many bedroom suites to accommodate. Lastly I invite you to join me for dinner tonight, special requests can be taken.”

Cassandra stood up from her chair. “Sir, if you will excuse me I must return to CENT-COM to finish up some reports.” She turned towards the Vulpine leaders. “It was a pleasure and an honor to meet with you all.”

Gordon nodded affirmatively and with a salute the Supreme Commander promptly left the room.

Gordon smiled at the group before him. “I will send this immediately, you may leave or stay, whatever the choice, at least join me at my table.”

Official Communique from The Union Republic of Allegheny.

To the leader of Packilvania,

The Union Republic of Allegheny has been in talks with the nations of Vekaiyu and Listonia in hopes of creating a large trading and military bloc of nations. It was decided that we should extend an invitation to your great nation in hopes of becoming friends and allies. Therefore I invite you to our nation’s capitol of Pittsburgh to meet with us to discuss the terms of an agreement. It will be worth your while I promise you.

We await your return communication,

President Allen Gordon, U.R.A.

13

“Very well,” Stapen Evesuni replied as he watched the cigar burn out. “If the Packilvanian diplomat won’t be too long, then I think it’d be best if I waited for him or her to arrive. With that in mind…” He stood up from his chair. “I would be honored to join you for dinner.”

“I will also stay,” Selvala replied as she stood from her seat. “Ikrisia, you may be dismissed.” She looked down at her Kral Commodore.

“I don’t want to leave,” she replied. “I’d like to be present during these talks, and I think it’s important for a military leader to be present. Plus, I could act as a go-between for you and Kivo Evesuni.” She started to walk away from the delegation as Selvala followed.

“But you told me he was nothing more than a ruthless dictator, a terrorist. Why would you want to even represent someone like that?”

Ikrisia flashed an angry look at her superior. “I never said that.”

“You did,” she replied within earshot of the Listonian dictator, who followed not too far behind. “You told me he’s nothing more than a barbarian is killing his own people at the risk of a Vekaiyun absorption, that he’s holding back the tides of progress by keeping his nation… independent and vulnerable. Isn’t that the words you used?”

“I never said any of that at all,” she replied, a little louder than she did.

“You did. But it wasn’t as bad as what he expressed to me about you.”

Ikrisia tried to ignore Selvala, but the desire to know was too much as they walked down the hallway together. “What did he say?”

“Oh… let’s see. He first called you delusional and crazy for thinking you had a father complex with him. Then, I believe he asked me to ‘keep my rabid attack dog away from Listonia.’”

Ikrisia scoffed. “I don’t believe you. You’re only trying to make us fight.”

“What motive would I have in that? My best interests are in Vekaiyu’s best interests. Any deviation from that would be wrong. I’m only trying to make sure you know the facts, Ikrisia, so you, too, can make decisions for your country and not based on the lies you hear from a terrorist-turned-dictator.”

14

Impressed with the situation, Selvala gave a slight nod to her Kral Commodore. “Now, go and find something to preoccupy yourself with. I have to stay behind.” As Ikrisia gave a frustrated nod and began to walk away, Selvala put a hand on her shoulder. “And I wouldn’t disrupt relations between our two nations again. All your meddling is getting us further and further away from a union between Vekaiyu and Listonia. You may stay for further delegations, but I warn you, you are only able to stay on my accords. I expect better behavior.”

She watched as Ikrisia shook off her hand and continued to walk down the hall, apparently refusing to respond to her comments. Satisfied, Selvala walked back into the room.

“Mr. Gordon? May I have a moment of your time?” She stepped in the room and moved toward a seat. “I was a little shocked at the rushed meeting, personally. I had hoped that the delegation would have waited for my presence, seeing as I am the empowered in Vekaiyu and other leaders were present here.” She sat down. “Perhaps in the future it would be better to wait until the entire delegation has arrived.”

15

Gordon had poured himself a glass of Whiskey before Selvala had come back into his office.

“Mr. Gordon? May I have a moment of your time?”

Gordon nodded as he savored the flavor of the drink in his mouth before swallowing.

“I am listening.” He said quietly as he manipulated a computer terminal that was set perpendicular to his main desk.

“I was a little shocked at the rushed meeting, personally. I had hoped that the delegation would have waited for my presence, seeing as I am the empowered in Vekaiyu and other leaders were present here.” She sat down. “Perhaps in the future it would be better to wait until the entire delegation has arrived.”

Gordon turned back towards Selvala, a serious tone had washed over his face.
"Yes, that was quite uncouth of me to allow that to happen, I assure that no serious terms were really discussed in this meeting other than the things that we would like to gain from this. I’m sure you will be an integral part of this when the real negotiations start.

Gordon stood up and turned towards the window facing downtown Pittsburgh, the setting sun had begun to glint off the glass spires of one of the cities most prominent buildings.

“I hope you don’t mind me drinking this alcohol, this job gets very stressful at times and I find a glass of whiskey always calms my nerves.” Gordon turned and gave a slight smile. “Always in moderation of course!” Sitting back down he leveled his gaze back at his guest. “I’m sure you understand being the leader of a country yourself after all.”

Gordon’s face once again became serious. “I have a feeling that this negotiation with Packilvania may not go as well as we’d like it to. I hope that when the time comes we can rely on the support of each other to hammer this contract out. I am a man who is willing to compromise, compromise I think is the only thing that allows governments to even function correctly. I want you to know that the U.R.A. is willing to extend that favor to you and Listonia.”

16

She watched as Mr. Gordon apparently dropped his face to a more serious one. While the facial expressions were like nothing as to what the vulpine form had to offer, it was still enough to see she had gotten her point across.

“Yes, that was quite uncouth of me to allow that to happen, I assure that no serious terms were really discussed in this meeting other than the things that we would like to gain from this. I’m sure you will be an integral part of this when the real negotiations start.”

“Very well,” she replied as the president stood from his seat and turned to gaze out the window. She decided to take the opportunity to stretch her legs, but made sure her heels didn’t make too much noise against the hard floor.

“I hope you don’t mind me drinking this alcohol, this job gets very stressful at times and I find a glass of whiskey always calms my nerves.” Gordon turned and gave a slight smile, which was reciporicated by Selvala. “Always in moderation of course!”

“Not at all,” she replied, returning to her seat. She watched as the president did the same.

“I’m sure you understand being the leader of a country yourself after all.”

“I often find the best leaders are those who are able to find time to unwind,” she exclaimed, “but not to the point where they become lax and bend to everyone’s will. I myself am quite a drinker as well.” She gave a slight grin.

“I have a feeling that this negotiation with Packilvania may not go as well as we’d like it to. I hope that when the time comes we can rely on the support of each other to hammer this contract out. I am a man who is willing to compromise, compromise I think is the only thing that allows governments to even function correctly. I want you to know that the U.R.A. is willing to extend that favor to you and Listonia.”

“Ugh, Listonia,” she muttered, hoping it would be within earshot of the president. “We’re not entirely sure what to do with that nation. We don’t trust the leader there, we don’t quite know what is going on in that nation, and we don’t necessarily like the idea of a nation that is more left than Vekaiyu bordering us, staging military parades and getting powerful with each day.” She paused. “I don’t know how that nation will grow unless we were to influence them somehow. Trouble is, Evesuni is a very private man and doesn’t work well with others, at least that’s what I’ve been told.” She paused. “Something must be done to keep his unity with us strong, for I fear he’s only in it for the corridor, which is absurd, since if he would have accepted a Vekaiyun union with his nation, the corridor would have been a non-issue.”

17

Gordon took out the bottle and poured Selvala a glass.
“This is the finest whiskey made from our distilleries, the ingredients grown in the unmolested air of the greensburgh fields.”

“So you feel comfortable with a right wing country that also holds a strong military tradition and boasts a burgeoning economy bordering you? Mr. Evesuni can be as private as he wants, but he will need to grow up someday and realize that sometimes cooperation and friendship is the only choice when it comes to making allies.”

Gordon took another sip of his whiskey and paused to savor the taste.
“Say we help Evesuni get his corridor and then he stops contributing. What would you do in that situation? There is no place for that sort of behavior in this new union we are trying to build. When the contract is written we must insert some sort of clause to prevent such a thing from happening. I do not believe that any of us should only share the gain and not the burden.”

18

Noi sat at her desk, reading the message over in her head. It was a simple desk, green and made of sheet metal. She had a grand oak desk, but found she just ended up scratching the hell out of it. She finally had one of her aids bring up an old desk from the basement of her building. Strangely enough, the previous owner traded it for a stapler.

Hive speak. Not verbal.

“Jorn, make plans for travel. I leave in about an hour. I have a meeting to attend.”

Noi typed out a quick reply.

The Hive is always prepared to deal with our neighbors. I will arrive in the morning, after some last minute preparations. I assume myself, and my entourage will be cleared for travel into your territory. We look forward to dealings which could advance all of our agendas.

Noi stood up, and groaned as her weight shifted from the chair. She was getting old. She still stood a respectable 6’2", but her organic joints were wearing out. She dreaded getting the replaced with the augmented inorganic limbs, like the two she already had, but something in her just wanted to keep a hold of her old self. She feared becoming a creature tied solely to the Hive mind. It was true, she could not function away from a node anymore. Father, and even Tlant had succumbed to the temptations of the formless, but their legacy left much to be desired. She decided she would have none of that. She would be remembered for more than world wars.

Noi walked to he window and looked out over her city. The city was a marvel, with towering spires reaching to the heavens. Those same towers were almost as deep into the ground as they were high. She noticed the same thing she noticed every time shoe looked outside. There was no vegetation. The city, and the surrounding territory was almost devoid of plant life. She could feel her brethren starving. All she had to do was reach out to almost anyone not stationed outside the territories, and she could feel the hunger pains. This would have to be it she decided. Either she traded for it, or once again, a Hive Father would be remembered for war.

She turned and walked to gather her things, her left foot clanging against the metal floor of her office. On an off thought she wondered how she would get through the buildings security scanner when she arrived. Her body was pretty much one large weapon. She chuckled to herself.

“This will be an interesting meeting I think.”

19

Selvala watched as Mr. Gordon grabbed a glass on the table. "This is the finest whiskey made from our distilleries,"he began, “the ingredients grown in the unmolested air of the greensburgh fields.”

Selvala nodded slowly. “I see.” She held out a glass next to her on the table.

“So you feel comfortable with a right wing country that also holds a strong military tradition and boasts a burgeoning economy bordering you? Mr. Evesuni can be as private as he wants, but he will need to grow up someday and realize that sometimes cooperation and friendship is the only choice when it comes to making allies.”

“I often feel Evesuni is too rigid,” she replied while sipping from her glass. “I would feel more comfortable being on good terms with a right-wing state than one that is more left-wing, run by someone as unstable as Evesuni.” She watched as he took another drink.

“Say we help Evesuni get his corridor and then he stops contributing. What would you do in that situation? There is no place for that sort of behavior in this new union we are trying to build. When the contract is written we must insert some sort of clause to prevent such a thing from happening. I do not believe that any of us should only share the gain and not the burden.”

“Well,” Selvala replied, “he fails to understand that it was Vekaiyu who gave him a military. Vekaiyun investors re-started his economy. Vekaiyun construction workers worked with Listonians to rebuild their nation and railways. And we, the Vekaiyuns, provided them with defenses in the forms of WMD’s. In essence, where does one draw the line? When does Listonia really become independent? Does it make it fair that Vekaiyu has poured many resources into their lands, but it’s still held back by a terrorist turned dictator?” She paused to sip more whiskey. “Truly, he has become the source of all the difficulties within the continent. From their independence, to their aggression toward Elephana. If he keeps causing problems, it will have to be time to remove him from his seat. I don’t think Listonia the state should be punished - if we remove Evesuni, Listonia will be left to the dogs at the EPTO to divide and conquer. Instead, I propose a Vekaiyun absorption of their lands. Of course, this should only go into effect if he is abusing our union.”

20

Gordon mulled over Selvala’s words. “That is something I could support, especially if he were to “betray” our interests. Listonia’s farms are a big part of this deal and to lose them would ruin it. Just between you and me a Vekaiyun controlled Listonia is a fair deal for keeping unity and we could possibly render support should “plan B” come into play.”

Gordon chuckled to himself.
“These negotiations really bring me back, they remind me of the 1985 Alleghenian reunification convention. Those were hard times, not like now, I think a true sense of stability can be brought to the to center region of this continent, that or we end up causing a world war!”

The computer next to Gordon chirped indicating a new message had arrived.
“Hmmm, it looks like the Packilvanians have accepted our invite. Now the real negotiations start! Well the night is almost upon us and my stomach is empty, let us join the others for dinner.”