A Battle Unseen

[Elena1012]

A Shift in Tone, A Promise in Stone.
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February 22nd, 5654
Johnston, Baltusia
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Merridan sat in the garden. It was a peaceful day. It was supposed to be at least. Merridan kept thinking. New threats, new enemies, new assets. The biggest threat however, was the fascist dogs in Kundrati and the threat that Kalistan could be. Mostly the Kundrati. He already had the RSB keeping a watch on all their nationals that entered the country. It was bad enough that fascist filth was entering the country. Domestic fascists would get an idea. And the last thing he needed was fascist dogs trying to overthrow his regime. It was clear what he had to do. He would need to spend some time in Congress. Prepare a purge of fascists across the country. The Baltusia First Party, even if defanged and practically illiterate, were a threat. Congress would be assembled to draft a bill that will purge fascism at home. 

The velvet glove may slip a bit more, but fascism holds no place in Baltusia. But of course, Merridan thought to himself. One big problem remained. A slight breeze kicked in, and reminded him of reality. He was still in a peaceful garden. But the biggest problem was Kundrati. As long as the deal remained, bad PR would continue and the poisonous influence of Fascism would seep in. Merridan wouldn't consider himself a master at exploring foreign affairs. Domestic events, so much easier. Assets are more controllable. But abroad? More unpredictable. He couldn't try to organize some method to force Kundrati to be provoked and use it to break off. So what could be done? Either it would be a long 15 years, or he would have to hope Kundrati makes a mistake. But if he were in the shoes of Kundrati, he'd do everything and anything to not overplay his hand. So what could he do? He'd simply have to adapt. 

Things would be harder, yes. But not impossible. New diplomatic efforts would be needed. This was a bruise for the administration. But not a black eye. Not yet. The geopolitical status quo was undesirable. Merridan remained in the garden for a bit longer. Things were peaceful in the garden. He thought to himself. Laughed a bit at himself. Invested a personal sum into this garden thinking it wouldn't be worth it. Now it's helpful. He had work to do. But it could wait. Just for a little longer.
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Royal Palace, Johnston
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Alvarez had the weekend to rest from the tour. Rallying the public was exhaustive. His subjects were interesting. But hardly subjects. He was the subject. No! He couldn't let himself fall into despair right now. He made contact with a few officers in the military. Apolitical ones and monarchists. It wasn't much but it was a start. He had to be more careful. If even one word leaked out, the EPSA would be breathing down his neck. More than it already is. But what he suspected was true. There were elements of the armed forces that loathed Monarch Dynamics, and had some qualms with Merridan. Not like Alvarez did, but it was still a qualm. Who knew how long it would take to keep gathering support. But if this was a game of chess, he made his moves. He just had to keep making moves and avoid a checkmate. Merridan had every advantage. But that smug bastard would go down. Alvarez was sure of that. 

He would have to find some way to meet with the remnants of the Royal People's Party. They would fully support him. They'd be vital to building Baltusia up post Merridan. He couldn't meet with them immediately. But perhaps after the tour, he could try giving an address to Congress? Sneak in some time to talk to the RPP? It was his best bet. The Social Radicals had some progressives, sure but they'd never dissent from the party. It was all full of Merridanists or spineless cowards. Merridan would watch him like a hawk. But maybe that was a good thing? Alvarez thought to himself some more. He pondered how it could be a good thing. He was limited in doing anything plausible. But it also meant more eyes on him. Less eyes elsewhere.

It wouldn't matter much. He had to continue the tour. One move at a time. One step at a time. Anything to avoid checkmate. He was making some ground with the Royal Guard, but it wouldn't be enough. It never will be enough until Merridan is hanging. Soon. That day will come soon. He just had to keep preparing. He had a few allies. But 5 people can't topple a state apparatus. Progress is slow, but slow progress is better than no progress.