NationStates Jolt Archive

Like a Hurricane meeting winds of the opposite nature, that which existed today was rather a mess of political mumble-jumble and a rift being defined by social values. Particularly in the Excalbian Isles--where a preliminary expectation appeared to have been created, that which was considered to be the Catholic Church, and the Marketeers had now come at odds; whichever was "right" was more defined in one's own personal understanding, and his own perspective of the world around him. For most in the Absolutist State, there had slowly been a defining shift away from its Christian-based history--only to become that which was comparable to Knootoss, actually. Marketeers, venturer and explorer of the Free Market made these lands richer than ever; and for a nation derived of Italian and Spanish influences, they had done extremely well. (As good as the Dutch it had seemed). But for he who lay dominant in the text-books of history, and for those who took a particularly liking to the subject in question--many of them remain loyal to the books of which this nation had been founded upon. Simply put, the Market was the future, and the Church had faded from social relevance, to take a much more passive role in the society of today.

Still, as passive as it might be, one could never ignore the strength of such individuals. "The Church", as an institution, was still rather linked to many of the greater individuals which had emerged over the centuries of independance. And although much of this was only evident via tradition more than anything, there was an overwhelming minority of individuals who still identified themselves as either "Christian", or "Catholic". What they actually were however, was really much more up to "God" himself--if he existed enough to actually judge those worth judging. And so eventually, it had come to the attention of such "social experts", that the Excalbian Isles Crisis was but a preview of what was to happen here. Eventually, Knootian and Associated Propeganda would make its way to the growing sectors of global businessmen, and/or Catholic Doctorine would fight its way into the society many men and women lived in. Censorship, was but one solution. But even Indigo recognized the need for something greater, a plan much more grand... to bring together the forces of the Catholic Church of yesterday, and the Market-advocating Organisations of tommorow.

In the meantime, it had been the Hoffmans whom had been commissioned with a sort of objective-type mission. Ultimately, their duty was to their nation, and to Lord Indigo Blue himself, via a series of political and un-official social links. Even if "God" were to come today, only to condemn the very lifestyles of said men and women within the Austar Union, no rift would ever occur here. That said, Indigo would make sure of it.

National Statehouse
Anatoba City, the Absolutist State of Austar Union

"Now listen up you Papist Reich-loving abortion-clinic-bombing baby-rapist. Your kind has already been given one very important post despite your religion having no other followers then a bunch of old ladies refuse to die!”, a rather fat and unpleasant-looking man yelled across the table to the other side. A KNN presenter looked at it bemused.

“Now listen up you Godless hate-mongering liar”, a firm lady in a suit with a small silver cross around her nick retorded, “If all you can do is call names you might as well go back to kindergarten where you belong.”

The two glared at each other as a television anchor asked.

“Petra, in your latest book ‘Why Knootians deserve Hell’, you said that Knootoss is in effect an atheist theocracy. The recent remarks on The Resurgent Dream television have spurred the debate on your weblog, what do you think?”

“I think they’re right”, she said, “And its people like Pat over here that run it. It’s a bunch of atheists again that will burn in Hell.”

“This anti-Knootian tirade only shows that you hate Freedom", the man replied, "You're also wrong. In a theocracy is the religion is boss, we don't have a religion. Are you thick, you old wench? I say you conform to Knootian values or you can find another country to live in.” He beat his fist on the table as he said so.

“We’re not second class citizen!”, the agitated woman yelled back.

“Cry me a river baby. We’re not in Pantocratoria. Get used to it.”

“Don’t you think that every Knootian has a right to public office Pat? Its in the constitution”, the KNN anchor suggested tentatively.

“Sure they do”, he said self-satisfied that he got another turn at speaking. “Just not every office.”

“Like we get so many!”, Petra yelled.

“More then you deserve”, he bit back. “It’s a fact that a religious person should not be allowed to run departments where they can abuse their positions to spread their poison ideology. Like education or healthcare where they would force their religious issues like abortion. And everyone knows that Christianity is anti-science so it would be ridiculous to give them that department as well.”

“You didn’t make that difference on your talk show,” she yelled, “You were all high-and-mighty when they considered a Catholic for Defence which has nothing to do with that!”

“I ask you”, Pat turned his face to look into the camera, “Would you trust a Catholic to defend us against the Pantocratorian Imperialist Agressor?”
Shutting off the feed at that, Indigo pursed his lips; fuming with anger. Both being on the European Continent, Knootoss was hardly a distance away, and Amsterdam was but a fair drive from here. He held his voice however, not speaking a word--allowing what these men just witnessed to sink in.

"As you can see," he said, keeping his cool with relative ease. "What I was just talking to you about is occuring just five hundred, six hundred kilometers from here--in Knootoss, just as we predicted."

Richard nodded, standing back to his feet; "I see your point Mr. Blue. What is it you plan to do about it?"

Indigo crossed his arms and pondered. "I'll handle my bit on the Knootian end." He paused again, and turned back to the now dulled feed. "Your duty is to continue the friendship growth missions Catholic-wise. Contact the Pantocratorians perhaps; show the public that we stand for the greater good, not just the athiests, not just the religious."

Richard gave a sort of half snort, half laugh expression, with a half shake of his head. "I tell ye Indigo. We've got a big job here. With the strength however, we'll make a damn good team."

Shaking his hand, Richard gave his end of a respectful nod, before quietly making his way out. In the meantime however, night had fallen over Anatoba City, and the duty to his nation still called upon him. Midnight, might reign; and the stars might have been out... but such could never stop a man from furfilling his duties.


{Open Transmission}
{TRANSMISSION ENCRYPTION: Diplomatic, Secure}
{FROM: Lord Indigo Blue, the Absolutist State of Austar Union}
{TO: Prime Minister Jan Willem Daatman, Knootoss}
{SUBJECT: Greater Concerns...}

Concerning the most recent intelligence reports and K.N.N. Newsfeeds coming out from Amsterdam, I am rather disturbed at a heightning level of social intolerance between the Catholic and Athiest Sectors within Knootian (and abroad) society. Quite, I am rather sure that much of it is within regard of the over-continuing situation regarding the Excalbian Isles, which I am also sure you are capable of handling alone. But... my concern stretches further, and into the hearts and minds of every Austarian citizen.

Friend, it is with great regret that I must contact you on such terms, however I would like to arrange an emergency meeting with you, personally; here in Anatoba City, the Absolutist State of Austar Union. I await your response as soon as possible.

With Respect,

Lord Indigo Blue
The Absolutist State of Austar Union
{Close Transmission}

“Heightening level of social intolerance?” Daatman looked amused. “More than the usual punditry he means?”

Femke Halsema smiled at the Prime Minister.

“The Excalbian Isles crisis has exposed some deep wounds within our own people”, she said with her clear, feminine but strong voice. “Dormant cultural differences have been laid bare, in a sense he is right to be concerned.”

“… but an emergency meeting”, Daatman said, his tone conceding even in his protest, “I have only just left Knootoss to attend that party-coronation thing everyone was insisted was vitally important.”

“Nobody ever said Prime Minister was the easy job. You can still switch jobs, if you want”, she replied with a teasing smile.

“Can’t you go?”, Daatman asked with not much hope. “I mean, would he be insulted?”

“Yes, he probably would”, Femke said more seriously. “His disquiet also concerns the stability of his own people. I don’t think this is yet an Excalbian Isles-related trip, but more something designed to regain trust – something we set out to do together”, she grabbed Daatmans hand, which rested in hers.

“Don’t worry Jan Willem, I’ll come with you. It never hurts to be good neighbours and drink some coffee when you've just moved in.”

…

Some time after the initial letter, a high-speed train arrived in the Austar Union from the Dutch Democratic Republic of Knootoss. The direct railway link between The Hague and Anatoba City was convenient, to say the least, and it had done much to convince Daatman (who always got airsick on planes) to make this visit rather quickly.

After the obligatory playing of the Knootian anthem (knootoss.vogels.nu/images/anthemknootoss.mp3) and other formalities (Daatman and Halsema had insisted in their reply that these be kept to the minimum) the Knootian Prime Minister was finally to talk to Indigo in a more private setting as Halsema began her own meeting with some of the national political figures…

[OOC: Sorry Knoot, I might leave this thread for just a little bit. I'll probably set this before Indigo's address to the world (post coming soon) however. But, you should be happy with the "news" coming out when you read it; I know I certainly am, as a writer.]

((OOC: No problem. When you are ready.))

[OOC; Right, after some careful considering, I have since decided not to turn the AU democratic. *Hugs his Dictatorship* ^_^. Move along now... >_>]

Kept company by only the ticking of the grandfather clock, Indigo pondered thoughtfully on the subject at hand, whilst on the table before him, a book lay open. Su Divisione Sociale: Religione. Its pages, although quite old and fragile, were still more than relevant to the world of today. Funny that; while technology increases faster now than any could any truly imagine or understand, people for the most part, still operated the same. Such was helpful to say the least, and it made Indigo's job that little bit easier--being trained in psychology helped even more.

Knocking first, a man came in and whispered in Indigo's ear, something in Italian.

"Grazie," he replied, nodding. Standing to his feet, he sighed and wandered for the nearest mirror. This would be the first time to meet Minister Daatman, and first impressions counted greatly, if not for the most of everything.

A few minutes later...

Indigo paused before entering the room, and took a deep breath. Closing his eyes, he muttered something--a prayer perhaps, and then straightened himself tall. Pushing open the double doors, he crossed the marble floor with a stride; grinning from ear to ear.

"Ah, Saluti Mr. Daatman, Ms. Halsema!" he called and shook both of their hands, Daatman first. "I'm glad you could make it here, thankyou for coming on such short notice."

Making first greetings between them, Indigo was quick to get down to business; "Join me in the Study would you?" He gestured, "Come, I'll lead the way."

The two Knootians followed Indigo diligently into the office.

((OOC: feel free to use my characters for following, drinking drinks and introductory talk and all that. ;) I'm not so very inspired today for elaborate literary descriptions of "following guy into office". Perhaps tomorrow will be better.))

Offering both a seat and cigar, they took position in the appropriate place; more toward the center of the study. Around them, the room had been decorated with a mix of velvet, leather, and mahogany. Art on the walls filled any empty spaces, and a large portrait of a man standing tall sat above the fireplace which burned gently, warming the room to a comfortable temperature. In the meantime, a soft ticking coupled with the flickering of said flames filled any gaps of silence, while Indigo wandered to the mantlepiece for his box of cubans.

"How are you finding your Prime Ministership, Jan?" he asked from the mantlepiece. He poured out three glasses of Port, one for each of them. "I bet you must have been proud when you won the elections?"

Jan chuckled softly. "I guess I was more surprised more than anything. Until now, I had been relatively quiet personally." He shrugged. "I guess I wasnt sure how Knootian voters would recieve me, whether they would stay loyal to Galadriel... or not."

"Aye," replied Indigo, coming back with the goods. "But you must have had at least some idea."

Jan nodded thanks. "Well of course." Accepting a light from Indigo, he leaned forward, and drew his first puff. "I'd be quite a poor politician if I didnt."

Femeke giggled lightly, but added nothing to the conversation. Instead, she sipped her glass--whether or not Port was a liking of hers was rather unknown.

"Fair enough," Indigo commented. He crossed his legs; "Anyhow, thanks again for coming. I guess for the most part, this wouldnt be considered an emergency meeting in most places in the world. But then as they say; L'uccello mattiniero si becca il verme, correct?"

He chuckled, "Athough, this worm bites!" Returning to a more professional demeanor, he smiled. "But, it's lucky you are here anyway. I might be able to also address this damn Energy Crisis, if we have time." He grinned from the corner of his mouth, "Sincronizzazione Perfetta."

Daatman raised an eyebrow, turning towards Femke. She could however only wrinkle her own forehead a little, as neither Knootian spoke a word of Italian. Still, they decided to go with the flow presuming that it was some sort of Dominion saying.

"The energy crisis has been somewhat of a worry of ours", Daatman replied tentatively, "It makes our plans for closer cooperation with the United Nations rather difficult, to say the least, and it will likely have rather unpleasant economic effects, globally."

"We do have faith in international diplomacy", Femke added, her eyes glimmering. "Our joint lobby with the UN Old Guard swung the vote against the resolution. It only passed with 55 percent of the vote, instead of the predicted eighty percent. The resolution is certainly very, uhm, repealable." She smiled. "I would be highly surprised if it actually made the ten-year implementation period. Still, we have to prepare for the worst."

"I consider myself a man with a mission, Indigo" – Daatman paused briefly. He felt slightly uncomfortable calling the foreign leader by his first name, but as Indigo had started it, it was apparently par for the course in Knootian-Austar relations. "I have a lot of things to do in Knootoss – restoration, if you will. I’m hoping for a stable international environment… friendship with all the nations of the world, and restored trust, especially with our neighbours and allies, such as your own nation. This sort of thing…” he added a lustless gesture in the air "is an unfortunate development, which sidetracks our shared mission of reforming Knootoss. I hope for Femke to deal with it through international action."

With that, he grabbed his own glass of port, taking a sip.

((OOC: Heh. You actually talking FOR them was not what I had in mind, but I guess I’m punished for my lazyness. :P Daatman doesn’t smoke though, neither does Halsema. ))

Shifting his weight, Indigo listened closely and grinned--the sort of grin that meant he knew that he was in a more superiour position than these two. His attitude however, remained the same--for the most part, they probably wouldnt see beyond his cordial welcoming.

"Only fifty-five percent?" he snickered, coupled with a soft chuckle. He snorted; "I find such idealistic environmentalists quite pathetic, actually. Organisation such as Greenpeace, et cetera... are in my opinion, worthy of terrorist status--and are treated as such. If you get to know me, Jan, you will soon learn that I have very little patience for these individuals." He grinned from the corner of his mouth, and took a puff. "And resolutions such as these, dont even deserve my recognition."

He pursed his lips just slightly, "I'll be frank Mr. Daatman, Ms. Halsema; if the United Nations wants to screw themselves over with such ignorant policy-making, then I dont give a dime." Allowing a sigh to escape from his lips, he flopped his arms beside him. "But... since this affects the world markets, and thus the Union in general..."

He allowed his voice to trail off, having made his point. In the meantime, he went for a change of subject as Daatman thus changed the course of the conversation onto his "promises" of reform.

"If you can change the suicidal course of Knootoss," he opened, having took a sip of his drink. "My hat's off to you. Unfortunately, I do hope you'll understand why I have to be quite skeptical about such things." He paused, deciding not to mention Galadriel. "Knootoss has been a stain on our own international reputation for some time now, and to be honest, for your sake... I hope you can change things with Godspeed."

He crossed his arms, "I do apoligise for such brutality Jan, but if we're ever going to get anywhere in the future, Id rather be honest today."

As Indigo started about environmentalists, the smile on Femke Halsemas lips grew very thin indeed. The leader of the Knootian Green Party did not exactly share his opinions, and Daatman even had to grab her hand for just a moment to reassure her to keep her composition.

"That is quite understandable, Sir", Jan Willem Daatman replied distantly to Indigos blunt confession. "And I have always valued frankness both in politics and in my personal life."

Indigo noted from the corner of his mouth, Femke's own expression and reaction to his more obviously, frank attitude toward the extreme side of environmentalism. He also noted the Prime Minister's own reaction... much more of a silent discontentness than anything. Of course, it showed that he would rather take a more diplomatic stance, for he simply said very little at all about Indigo's comments and opinions. Good, at least he wouldnt have to bother with the explanation of things, and could move on into the topic of today's true business.

Indigo gave a respectful nod, his demeanor now shifting away from such almost open hostility; "But, I didnt invite you here today to insult you," he grinned lightly. "Or your counterpart, Mr. Halsema, for that matter."

"I have been in some conversation with a few good friends of mine, within various departments, and they have been recording and noting an opening trend within Austarian society," he began. "Without wanting to bore you of such particulars, I am beginning to grow in concern about this damn crisis within the Excalbian Isles."

Daatman nodded as Indigo continued forward, "Now, with some respect Mr. Daatman, in my opinion this conflict has gone far enough. Too long, whatever you'd like to call it. And already we are beginning to see some degree of seperation between Capitalist and the Catholic Church; of which you must know holds some degree of historic, if not current social power within the community."

"It has begun to grow rather obvious that the issue has indeed crossed the East-Atlantic and onto the European Continent, into Knootoss (for some time), and then slowly making its way more our-way," Indigo explained, taking another sip. "Such is the natural movements of social opinion, and its relation to the geography of things. But, although it hasnt risen its ugly head here... I would rather nip it in the butt, per say, and handle it now before it is becoming a problem, like it already is beginning to within Knootoss today."

He grinned again, this time a little more warm than before--just a little; "All I really need to know, is what you are doing to end this crisis. Because I'll be honest, should this ever become an actual problem for us in the Union, I will take various matters into my own hands, whatever that might be." He grinned again, "No threat to yourself, of course."

"My own position with regards to the Excalbian Isles has always been rather public", Daatman responded dutifully. "A comprehensive treaty to safeguard international relations. With regards to internal tensions, I would hope that these are devolve naturally as the international tensions decline." Frowning, he continued, "I myself do not believe in any fundamental opposition between spirituality and the economics of justice. The politics of conciliation are therefore inherently part of my governments agenda."

Femke smiled somewhat more concerned

"What exactly is it that you intended to do?", she asked, "Are you considering foreign policy changes for the Austar Union?"

Indigo nodded, his face remaining in a somewhat stone-like expression. "Quite possibly, Mr. Halsema." His eyes drifted to the fire which was burning, then snapped back to Femke's own. "Although, I'll admit. There are less painful options I would like to consider first. But what they are, are my own business. I hope you understand, cordially."

His attention turned back to Jan Willem. Indigo was less touched by his so-called "promises"; satisfaction came with substance, and he had heard such promises in the past. "And so, you hope to achieve this safehuarding treaty by leaving a fleet off the coast of Excalbia? Not to grill you entirely over that, but... I havent seen such be withdrawn. Your politicians have claimed them to be in position for "observation" means, but to be frank I dont buy. To exert some pressure, whatever it might be; fact is, you could do the same as your government claims to be via such means as..." he turned his hands a bit, looking for the appropriate example. "Satellites."

He watched Daatman cock his head just slightly. Indigo continued; "My point, is that I havent seen any real attempt to bring this to a final close. And to be completely honest, whilst I can acknowledge a desire to do so, facts such as these only lead me to an obvious conclusion--that you would rather achieve a series of political objectives, in order to gain favor there." He crossed his leg, right over the left. "In the meantime, you ignore the fact that these social gaps are widening, both in your own, and other social environments."

Indigo grinned from the corner of his mouth, "You might claim them to eventually disappear over time, Prime Minister, but... I cannot afford to become so careless. I am the leader of this Union, and to be frank, I'm certainly not willing to allow developments such as these get in the way of a healthy social environment, nor am I willing to allow them to prevent me from exerting the influence of certain social and government instutions." He winked at Femke, "Even if that might be at the expense of my Knootian counterparts, for example."

"What the hell does he think he has he got on us?", Daatman wondered, Calling us into his office like a headmaster would call a schoolboy who has been naughty. Refusing to offer his own ideas, but reserving to change his policy to us nonetheless.

"I don’t know what sort of aristocratic game is being played here, Lord Indigo", he started assertively – almost brusque in an apparent change of demeanour – "But I did not expect to be invited to the Union to report to you on what my positions are, only to be received with disbelief and vague threats. I find it very inhospitable.

You told me that you liked clarity, and so do I. Please tell me what it is you want or perhaps we should be on our way. "

Indigo folded his arms. "Oh, dont be offended at all, Mr. Daatman." He frowned and took a brief puff on his cigar. "You want to know what I want?" Grinning from the corner of his mouth, and explained. "I want to see an actual solution being produced, on how you will be tackling such social differences in the society. I dont want to hear things such as 'things will pass in due time' and all that bullshit."

His voice changed, also stern. "I want to see that you're willing enough to be a leader of your own nation, so that others might find it safe enough to follow you." He grinned wryly. "Truth is, this issue is the only thing actually holding me back from a future of co-prosperity with Knootoss." He gestured with his hand. "You can do what the hell you want in the Excalbian Isles for all I care. But, when it affects here," he drew a line with his finger. "It becomes a problem."

"So the question really is; what are you doing to address this problem, and give me one good bloody reason to believe you--because from where I'm sitting, you dont intend to do anything about it," he paused and smiled at Daatman cordially. "Except, to hope it all passes, fine and dandy."

Indigo hated taking on such an attitude, being so rough. It wasnt afterall within his nature. But rather, he was a diplomat; a man of unquestionable fashion, education, and dignity. But, sometimes the situated called. Leadership required that of adaptability, certainly.

"I always recommend foreigners who take an interest in our domestic affairs to read the SLP-KGP coalition accord", Daatman replied, mimicking Indigos cordial smile exactly. "It contains information about all sorts of government policies we are going to implement in the next four years including those on reconciliation and integration. I can arrange to send you a copy, if you want."

He waited for a moment, looking at Indigo directly before resuming.

"We have quite a lot of plans in the category that you alluded to…. remind me please Femke?" he asked, looking over to his Foreign Affairs and Defence Minister.

"Religious Education reform… cultural exchanges with several Christian nations, the multicultural education thingy, the public forum, the continued recognition of the Church of Freedom, the Knootian inter-cultural dialogue, the lingu…" She paused as Daatman motioned for her to stop.

"Thank you", Jan Willem said before refocusing his attentions on Indigo. "The point being, there are a lot of plans publicly available to you and your government. Whether you choose to believe if they will be successful or not is entirely your judgement. I personally like to use not just the brains that I have, but all that I can borrow, so I am always open to advice if you care to comment on any one of them specifically or all of them generally. However, you must not forget that I am still the personal elected representative of the Knootian people, and I need no lectures from a foreign autocrat on how to do my job. When problems spill over into the Union – which they won’t – you can always contact me to ask for my assistance. We are your allies, and we’ll gladly render it when required."

Upon seeing that he would gain no further information, Indigo listened to Daatman; trying to take upon himself a more respecting manner.

Indigo nodded. "Thankyou." He gave a bit of a false smile. "Ive done my fair share of reading, and if your promises are actually kept; I'll be greatly impressed."

He chuckled, his demeanor relaxing; "Of course, I hope you can understand my point of view; my doubt, per say. Politicians in a democratic system as yours have proven themselves unworthy of the trust they seek from others." He cleared his throat. "The trust to actually do what they seek to do."

"With all respect to yourself Mr. Daatman, Ms. Halsema;" Indigo smiled, this time much more genuinely. "I do hope the best for your term as Prime Minister. And I hope a convenient ending to this... conflict which has continued long enough. Galadriel," he noted. "hasnt done much to restore my confidence in the Foriegn Office of Knootoss, you see." He sighed. "It will... take some time for said confidence to be restored."

Shrugging, he wrote it all off, "Such is the business of previous arrangement, anyhow." Chuckling, Indigo stood to his feet and straightened his suit out. "Regardless, despite the fact that in some parts I have been a bit harsh, you've held your own well enough." Winking at Daatman, he smiled. "For that I respect you. Enough as Prime Minister at the very, very least."

Offering his hand, Indigo flashed his eyes at both men. "To a prosperous, co-existance? One of great wealth and trading?"

OOC: If there is nothing else…

IC:

"I’ll agree to that, gladly", Daatman said earnestly as he accepted the hand. Femke Halsema followed, offering her own hand after that.

The next day, Trouw newspaper, Foreign Affairs page:

Austar Union state visit 'constructive'

ANATOBA CITY – Prime Minister Daatman and
Foreign Affairs & Defence minister Halsema
returned yesterday from a one day trip to the
Austar Union. They met for discussions with
the Unions dictator, Lord Indigo Blue which
Daatman termed as having been ‘frank and
constructive’.