May 5th, 1938. Valoria.
Alexander and Chief Mosi were in one of the elaborate rooms of the Volkshalle. They sat at either end of a long table, reviewing the contents of the documents that outlined the partnership between the Kingdom of Zambesi and Valoria.
Alexander leaned back in his chair, his sharp eyes scanning the papers in front of him. "This alliance, Chief Mosi, is a significant step forward for both of our nations," he said, his tone measured. "It provides Zambesi with the technological and military support needed to ensure its sovereignty, while Valoria secures a strategic ally in the region."
Chief Mosi nodded, his expression serious. "Indeed, Your Excellency. The Zambesi people have long struggled against external pressures, and this partnership with Valoria offers us the strength to resist those who would seek to dominate us. But we must ensure that this alliance is balanced. Zambesi cannot afford to become overly dependent on Valoria."
Alexander smiled slightly, appreciating Mosi's caution. "Of course, Chief. Our goal is not to dominate, but to support. Valoria seeks to build a lasting partnership based on mutual respect and shared interests. We understand the importance of Zambesi's independence and are committed to preserving it."
Mosi studied Alexander carefully, weighing his words. "I appreciate your assurances, Alexander, but words alone are not enough. We need to see concrete actions that reflect this commitment. The people of Zambesi will judge this alliance by what it brings to their lives—security, prosperity, and a better future."
Alexander nodded, acknowledging the chief's concerns. "You will see those actions soon, Chief Mosi. Our first shipment of military supplies is already en route to Zambesi. In addition, our engineers will arrive within the week to begin work on infrastructure projects that will benefit your people directly—roads, bridges, and communications networks.
These will not only strengthen your nation's defenses but also improve the daily lives of your citizens."
Chief Mosi looked thoughtful as he absorbed Alexander's words. "That is a good start," he admitted. "We are ready to sign the treaty of friendship."
Alexander smiled, sensing that the negotiations were coming to a favorable conclusion. "Excellent, Chief Mosi. Now without further ado, let's sign this treaty and solidify our partnership." Alexander gestured to the aide who had been waiting by the door, signaling for him to bring forward the treaty documents.
The aide approached with a leather-bound folder, carefully placing it in front of Chief Mosi first. The chief took the pen offered to him, pausing for a moment as he considered the weight of the decision he was about to make. Then, with a firm resolve, he signed his name with a flourish, committing the Kingdom of Zambesi to this new alliance.
"Say what you want, but the system's mission is for the benefit of our country. Outside, we have to keep appearances to make us look like the perfect allies," Alexander continued, his tone pragmatic. "But inside these walls, I have no illusions about what this alliance truly is. It's a strategic move, nothing more.
The system's mission dictates my actions, and as long as it benefits our nation, I will continue to follow its directives."
"Even if it goes against your personal morals?" Julieanne asked.
Alexander paused, the handkerchief now resting still in his hand. He met Julieanne's gaze with an intensity that was almost unsettling. "Morals are a luxury, Julieanne. In the world we operate in, results are what matter. The system provides a path, and I follow it because it ensures the survival and prosperity of our nation. Personal feelings, ethics—those are secondary."
"So, what's next on the agenda?" she asked, steering the conversation back to practical matters, though a small part of her still lingered on his previous statement.
"Next, we secure our foothold in Zambesi," Alexander replied, the sharpness returning to his tone. "I want regular updates on the progress of the military supplies and infrastructure projects. We need to keep Zambesi reliant on our support, ensuring their loyalty remains unshakable."
Julieanne made a note of his instructions, her mind already organizing the tasks ahead. "And what about Chief Mosi? Do we trust him to keep his end of the bargain?"
Alexander smirked, folding the handkerchief neatly before setting it on his desk. "Trust is irrelevant. As long as we control the flow of resources, Mosi and his council will have no choice but to comply. They need us more than we need them, and that's the leverage we'll maintain."
Julieanne nodded, understanding the underlying strategy. "And if Valoria's interests change? If the system demands a different course of action?"
"Then we adapt," Alexander answered without hesitation. "Alliances are temporary. If the system guides us toward a new objective that requires abandoning this one, we will do so. But for now, we solidify our influence in Zambesi and ensure that this alliance serves its purpose."
Julieanne finished jotting down her notes, her respect for Alexander's strategic mind deepening, even as she wrestled with the moral implications of his approach. "I'll get to work on those updates immediately."
"Good," Alexander said, dismissing her with a nod. As she turned to leave, he added, "Remember, Julieanne, in this game, the only rule is to win. Everything else is just a means to that end."