Post by Aiman on Jun 5, 2021 8:09:53 GMT
Dear Diary,
Today is the day. Today is my Passing Out Parade.
We've just finished the 30km route march. From yesterday night to today dawn, we marched, we walked - lugging all our full gear and rifles along. We endured the pain in our backs, in our knees, the aching in our shoulders but after what it seems like an eternity, I remember finally seeing grand stands of the Verdasnoya Platform. And behind it, a horizon of neon lights and towers that pierced the sky - the city. Our home. Our spirits lifted up a bit, we made it, we made it all the way from base camp to the very place we would pass out from.
It is all all so surreal. Now, we're only hours away from the end but it felt only yesterday we just enlisted. Heads full of hair, hearts full of fear. Then the whole 3 months just came flashing through; the first night, the PT, our weapons presentation ceremony, getting fucked by our commanders, failing area inspections and getting screamed at by the company Encik and bashing through the jungles and eating MREs. Now, we are all here, close to the final moment. I look to my fellow company mates. We've had our differences, we even fought sometimes but now...we're brothers and sisters.
--
In 10 more minutes, we will fall in for our parade rehearsal. For one last time, the Encik will run us through the drills and commands. He says we have to look damn good, someone special is coming for our parade. He did not tell us exactly who, but I overheard the battalion officers saying something about a foreign dignitary reviewing the parade together with a local government high-ranker before they conduct some negotiations. If that is true, then we better work extra hard in shining our boots and make sure we put on the best parade the foreigner has ever seen, because our entire nation's destiny may very well rest on our POP.
I know my NS is far from being over. Nevertheless, this would be my first big milestone cleared, as my brother said - take it step by step, and before you'd know it, you reached the end.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chief Diplomat Kalsar straightened his tie as his receiving party lie in wait in the airport, patiently awaiting the arrival of their special guest. Security was tightened in the airport - patrols were increased, security agents and snipers had cleared out any spot that seemed like a good sniper nest and the route for their foreign guest all the way from the tarmac to the terminal and to the motorcade was also cleared of civilians. The only civilians present in that exact terminal were government officials, essential staff and members of the press.
"Sir, ATC reports the guest has touched down on the tarmac. Security teams report no abnormalities," one of the black-suited security agents whispered to the Chief Diplomat. Kalsar nodded, and the security agent dismissed himself returning to his post.
Soon enough, Kalsar would come face-to-face with their 'guests' and their entourage.
"Welcome to Kel-Assim IV, ladies and gentlemen. You must be the representative for the Colonial Systems Alliance?" Kalsar's hand extended out to the person at the head of the foreign mission.
----
A pair of figures approached Kalasar as the Security Guard left. Flanking this pair was a squad or so of Naval Marines, their armor and weapons dark grey and black.
Stepping forward in the dark grey and blue suit with skirt was Congressional Representative for Foreign affairs of the CSA, Charlotte Johnson. Her dark hair cut short as always she smiled as she took Kalsar’s hand in her own. “That you very much Chief Diplomat.” The women said as she released his hand. “I am Charlotte Johnson, assigned as the representative for foreign affairs by the Colonial Congress.”
The women gestured to an older man wearing a green and grey uniform, a grey hat with a silver 10 pointed star on the front under his arm. “This man next to me is a recently taken from retirement, Military Advisor Alexander Dumont. I thought it best to bring him along given he was the first to make contact to any other soecies, and his military background makes him perfect for this diplomatic exchange.”
Advisor Dumont bowed his head and moved to take the Chief Diplomats hand as well, a Colonial Army rank insignia of Colonel emblazoned on his uniform. “Thank you for having us here, it’s been a while since I’ve seen an Academy send off.” The old Colonel remarked with a laugh.
"Indeed, I know it is a detour from the negotiations, but since I have been invited as the parade's reviewing officer I thought it would be perfect as a little tour of the country," Kalsar smiled, unconsciously lifting up his hand to his chest where the heart was before putting it back to his side - a habit from Muslim tradition after shaking a person's hand. He gestured them to follow him as he walked to the lobby where a convoy of black armored SUVs were awaiting both RANGSI and CSA diplomatic teams. RANGSI security forces and soldiers eyed the Naval Marines closely, there was a slight tension in the air but their postures remained neutral - firm and vigilant, but never aggressive.
All the SUVs were outwardly identical and had both RANGSI and CSA national flags mounted at the sides to denote their diplomatic status, this was basic security 101 - so any potential enemies do not immediately know which SUV to target. Each SUV allowed for 7 passengers; 1 driver, 1 shotgun, 3 in the middle and 2 more at the back.
"Representative Johnson, Advisor Dumont, please join me in this car," Kalsar pointed at the SUV in the middle. "If you like, you can take one soldier with us. The rest can fill up the other SUVs behind."
“That sounds like a splendid idea.” Charlotte said with a smile, Dumont giving a nod in agreement.
The Representative nodded to Kalsar’s request giving the Naval Marines a nod. The Sargent of the squad stepped forward, the slightly thinner form denoting it as a women, her compact A-34n Carbine right to her chest.
“Lead on Chief Diplomat.” Advisor Dumont said straightening his cap.
After the CSA officials had taken their seats, the motorcade convoy drove off, exiting the airport and turning right towards the highway. Highway 14, one of the many highways linked to the airport and the only highway connected to the Verdasnoya Floating Platform, had been closed off to the public three days prior to facilitate Chief Diplomat Kalsar's, and now Representative Johnson and Advisor Dumont's, visit to the parade. Only emergency vehicles were allowed to use the highway which was guarded by a combined force of police officers and more heavily armed Planetary Militiamen. The convoy stopped before the security checkpoint at the highway's entrance, drivers rolled down their windshields and presented special passes to the police officers manning the ad-hoc barricades. Passenger windows were not rolled down, this was to ensure that Kalsar, the CSA officials and the security personnel remained safe behind the bulletproof tinted glass. Police officers used fiber optic cameras ascertain their identities instead. Satisfied, they opened up the barricades and saluted as the convoy drove past.
-----
Kel-Assim IV is an arid world, the planet is quite dry with endless seas of sand rock. Even where they were, one of the cities in the equatorial belt where there is some rainfall and some small water bodies, there was still alot of sand, only now complemented with brown-greenish arid vegetation of thorny shrubs and cacti forests. Sal-Darim City was something of an in-development upstart; it was currently in transition from a colonial settlement to a full fledged megacity. Only a handful of gleaming white spires were seen protruding out of a sea of biodomes and prefab-habitats, though the abundance of scaffolding and cranes hinted at ongoing development.
As the motorcade drove past the sky-piercing tower of one of Kel-Assim IV's five orbital elevators, Military Police motobikes rallied with the convoy, taking up flanking positions to provide escort as they exited Highway 14 and moved onto the road leading to the Verdasnoya Floating Platform. Police UAVs hovered above the city, scanning the rooftops for any unusual activity as they trailed the motorcade. It won't be long before they finally reach the Platform.
-------------------------
"Dari kanan! Cepat jalan!"
We marched out of the gallery to a melody of applause, drums and the clicking of our boots. Unwavering, we held our heads high, with a firm grasp on our rifles, as we formed up the parade. Our parents, our loved ones, were all watching us from the grand stand. It was as if the whole world was watching us.
We shouldered our arms and stood in parade, awaiting our guests of honour. It did not take them long to arrive, five minutes later several black cars drove past and stopped in front of the podium. Military Policemen, distinct with their ironed dark green uniforms and white helmets that displayed the words 'MP' in red on the front of the helmet, opened up the doors, saluting as the VIPs stepped out. One of them was in a blue military style uniform, with four golden triangles on each shoulder and he manned the podium. The other two that followed him, one of them a dark-haired woman in a dark gray and blue suit and the other an older man in green and grey uniform, judging by the uniforms and the ten-pointed star insignia these two seemed to be the foreign dignitaries our Encik was talking about.
"Baris! Hormat RO dan Dignitari! Hormat Senjata!" our parade commander and CO of our training battalion, Captain Julian Lee, barked the order to present arms to the VIPs.
---------------
The recruits before Kalsar and the CSA officials gave their salute to them with their rifles. In one sharp and unified motion, thousands of recruits grabbed their handguards and thrusted their rifles forwards, bringing them to the middle of their torsos, while raising and stomping down their right foot just behind their left foot, forming a L-shape of sorts. With their boyish and girlish faces, these men and women were barely adults - at the fresh age of 18 they resembled more like teenagers, more accurately teenagers in full battle order complete with dark green uniforms, field packs and body armor, and guns in hand.
Kalsar saluted in response as the Reviewing Officer (RO) of the parade.
"Rusuk senjata!" the command was given to shoulder arms.
"Senang diri!" the command was then given to stand at ease.
------
Kalsar laid out his written speech on the podium and adjusted the microphone.
"Good morning, soldiers, parents, guests and our foreign dignitaries from the Colonial Systems Alliance, Representative Charlotte and Advisor Dumont," Kalsar gestured to each of the CSA officials, introducing them to the recruits in parade as well as the civilian attendees.
"Today is the momentous day for our young men and women. Today marks the end of the recruits' basic training, the end of three months of hard training that have tested their physical and mental limits in their journey to become soldiers of the Republik. As we speak, these recruits have just endured a long 30 kilometers route march, marching in full gear all the way from their base in Jerychoko to here, on the Verdasnoya Platform. To them, I say, congratulations for reaching the end of this journey."
"However, this is not the end of your service, you will spend the rest of your two years specializing in various vocations and undertaking operational roles in the defence of our Republik. Dare I say, as fully-fledged and fully trained soldiers, more responsibility is now on your shoulders to defend your home, your loved ones and your country. Even with the end of the 2nd Ancerious War, threats are still everpresent with belligerent factions, state or non-state actors alike, who seek the destruction of the Republik. While yes, the primary intent of National Service is to train and equip you with the know-how to defend your country on your own home soil while wars abroad are fought by Regular volunteers, never ever assume that war will never come here to your homes."
----
"For just ten years ago, I have personally witnessed this Platform attacked by APP-backed insurgents during your predecessor's own Passing Out Parade. The recruits before you on that day showed extreme valour and courage, despite having no bullets or any weapons on their person, they brought up their rifles and charged towards the grand stand where the attackers were. Hundreds of them died before they were able to complete their service as they fell victim to gunfire before the rest of their brothers and sisters closed the distance and melee'd them with their rifle stocks to death. Today, the bullet holes and scars of the bombs remain on the Platform if you look around. This is the visible reminder to all of you that threats are not a matter of if they happen, but when they happen. The reason you give up three years of your youth to National Service is so that if the enemy ever reaches your soil, you are ready to defend everything you love."
"With that, as your Reviewing Officer, I stand proud to bear witness to your transformation into full-fledged soldiers of the Republik," Kalsar ended his speech. He turned to the Dumont and Charlotte. "Advisor Dumont, Representative Charlotte, would you like to say a few words to our young recruits?"
Through out the ride, the march and the speech the pair of CSA representatives were silent and watchful. Both Dumont and Charlotte were impressed, both at the similarity and efficiency of it all. Dumont himself felt almost a flash back in his mind to the long ago days of his own training. He too has trained during a time of turmoil, the Colony War era in full swing and as Kalaar finished Dumont nodded and stepped forwards when allowed.
“Greetings, young men and women, today I am told you become soldiers.” He smiled. “That’s only in writing. As a military man myself I can tell you that no matter how much training you receive, the first taste of battle will truly test if you learned anything.”
“From what I am told, those who came before you had already faced that first baptism. I sincerely hope, that you are so lucky as to be spared from this, but be prepared if it does come.”
“I have seen war, I lost a brother to it, I lost a wife to it, and I lost a son to it. War and conflict is a fickle, untamed and bloodthirsty beast. And one day you May have to face it down, with naught but your training and the comrades by your side. You will be tested, in ways that even your training never taught you how to react and must learn to make decisions sometimes within seconds of them being presented.”
“And if your anything like the boys and girls back home in the CSA. I have no doubt that you will crush the expectations when that day does come.”
----
Kalsar nodded as he stepped forward again. Taking a deep breath, he stood at attention and raised his right palm.
"I! S-901D! Chief Diplomat Kalsar! Hereby stand ready to witness the recruits take their oath!" his voice echoed throughout the floating platform.
The parade commander immediately sharpened their posture as he resumed, issuing further commands to continue the parade. "Kawalan Kehormatan! Masuk baris!"
"Sir!" the Colours party shouted in response to the order to fall in formation from below the gallery. They marched to the front, bringing the National Flag and the Regimental Colours of the training battalion before the recruits.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, please stand for the National Flag and the Colours," the announcer said. The audience stood up while the flag bearers marched forth. Military personnel attending as guests saluted, and as the Reviewing Officer, Kalsar did so as well.
The flag bearers presented the flags before the parade commander who gave his compliments to the flag. Then the officer bearing the National Flag stepped forward and dipped the flag to a recruit in the center of his company, which was in turn the center of the entire battalion and thus the entire parade.
"Baris! Angkat tangan kiri ke bahu di kanan! Akan ambil ikrar! Ang-Kat!" the parade commander called for the recruits to raise their free left hand and place them on the right shoulder of the recruit standing to their left, forming a chain of hands that linked to the centermost recruit who was grabbed the National Flag in his own left hand.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, we shall now witness the recruits to recite the Armed Forces Pledge before the flag."
------
The end is near. My left hand was on the right shoulder of the soldier next to me. All of us were connected.
I said with all my might and gusto, joining the chorus of thousands of others.
We, members of the Singapore Armed Forces
Do solemnly and sincerely pledge that
We will always bear true faith and allegiance
To the Autarchs and the Republic of Singapore
We will always support and defend the Constitution
We will preserve and protect,
The honour and independence of our country
WITH OUR LIVES!
-------
"Baris! Sedia!" the recruits then placed down their hands back to attention position. The platform erupted into cheers and applause.
"Baris! Akan berjalan keluar, dalam masa cepat! Ke kanan pu-sing!" the order was then given to face left and prepare to march off in quick time.
"Dulang Senjata!" the recruits then held their weapons in high port. "Dari kanan! Cepat jalan!"
The entire battalion then marched off to the beat of drums and military percussion, company by company. As the company marched past the podium, they would tilt their rifles upwards and turned their heads to face the Reviewing Officer and the CSA dignitaries as form of salute, before sharply facing the front again after the company has finished marching past. This would repeat until the very last company.
------
After the last company of recruits marched past, the diplomatic motorcade returned, flanked by military police bikes, and stopped right in front of the podium. Chief Diplomat Kalsar, Advisor Dumont and Representative Charlotte were ushered into the SUVs before they drove off exiting the stadium. The last part of the parade, the throwing of their patrol caps, would have to go on without them for there were more important matters to attend to on the itinerary.
The scene changed back to that of the arid urban landscape. This time however, the fields of sands around them seemed to be much less inhabited. A bombed out apartment building collapsed just right next to the highway they were driving on, a good 4 klicks away, as a wrecking ball smashed into it breaking it into pieces of Rangcrete that joined the sea of ruins and rubble that lay beneath them. Dozers scooped up the debris, pouring them onto large dumpster trucks who then drove to pour them out again into mobile smelters that recycled the Rangcrete. Out from the smelters came batches of newly baked Rangcrete bricks, destined for new construction projects.
-----
Then, after the rubble was cleared, new foundations were laid down in their stead. Macroprinters shot out smart bricks at precise locations, arranging and layering them without rest or tire. Some who were already at it for a few hours managed to construct something that resembled a skeleton of a twenty-story apartment building. Entire communities were being demolished and rebuilt again, all in a span of a day.
"It's finally good to see this part being rebuilt, last I came here it was a warzone. Religious fanatics, backed by a communist nation of all people, were going around not just attacking the stadium but bombing the apartments as well. It was unfortunate the 2nd Ancerious War forced resources elsewhere but now with that out of the way the government was able to re-channel back them towards reconstruction," Kalsar commented as the motorcade finally reached their destination- a military communications center converted into a temporary local government office.
"My apologies for travelling a far bit from the city, the government's capital hall is being rebuilt in the center of the city as we speak. This communications center was the best option to house the functions of governance with all their comms relays and a secure underground bunker," Kalsar stepped out of the car. A MP sergeant opened the doors for Advisor Dumont and Representative Charlotte. "If you would follow me to the meeting room, please."
Dumont and Ms, Charlotte entered the diplomatic motorcade without issue, following as they were ushered forward. The female Naval Marine Sargent that had accompanied them while the others filled other vehicles in the convoy sitting where she had been previously.
As the landscape changed, the old lines face of Advisor Dumont grew melancholic as he looked out at the rubble and bombed out buildings. He was greatly impressed as was Congresswoman Johnson, however it did seem as though the sight brought memories to the forefront of the old mans mind.
As Kalsar spoke, detailing what caused the devastation Dumont gave a grimace and nodded. “I have dealt with the like, it’s always brutal.....and never lenient. Such warfare.....it’s hard to call it as such.”
The arrival at the communications center seemed to shake Dumont from his melancholy as he straighter himself, adjusting his hat similar to Charlotte with her dress. Charlotte smiled at Kalsar, her dark hair framing her face. “It’s quite alright, from what we’ve seen your people will have it rebuilt in no time, perhaps we might see it another time.” She said in her kind voice, Dumont nodding in response, the Naval Marine Sargent seemingly doing so as well almost in reflex.
“Such a military and governmental reason does it justice as a base of operations.” Dumont said once he nodded, recognizing the necessity and strategic value of its use. Once the door was opened, the pair alongside the Sargent, unless told otherwise, followed Kalsar inside.
The comms-center outside the city had been initially built for its intended military purpose - first as a command center for the planetary brigades stationed to protect the city and second as a signal relay to boost the command and control capabilities of any RANGSI forces in the area. During the Third April Fools War with Separatist Union forces and their associated insurgent forces, these functions were put to the test. The sudden wave of terrorist attacks that signalled that the war had finally reached there erupted from within as insurgents bombed strategic targets in the inner cities, spreading out and linking up with other elements. The stadium which hosted the parades of young conscripts was not the only one. As mentioned, the government hall and a few other state buildings were engulfed during the insurgency. It was this comms-center and bases on the outskirts that kept the rebels in and coordinated the efforts to recapture the city. Today, that war was over. In current peacetime, its facilities were temporarily leased out to the surviving government officials to maintain contact with other regions and the planetary government while military and sensitive assets were relocated into the deeper ends of the facility.
----
Peacetime did not mean low-security however, Provosts and MPs from the local 3rd Internal Security Brigade were on watch, manning various sentry posts and checkpoints. The ones inside the comms center were lightly armed with a pistol and a baton. Since this foreign visit was a planned one and had prior approval, thankfully there would not be a whole labyrinth of security procedures to slow down anybody, just a quick walk through the detector gates to make sure the civilians were not carrying any prohibited items.
“Ma’am, as you are protecting your national officials, we allow you the option to bring in a sidearm, if you have any, but it must be unloaded and cleared at the bullet catcher there. If you want, we can also safekeep it for you in the guardroom armoury and we will return it to you before you leave,” the provost manning the detector station briefed the CSA Naval Marine Sergeant as it was her turn, pointing to the metallic red cylinder object that was bolted to the ground just outside the main guardroom. This was where relieved armed sentries would go to clear their weapons before they were allowed to return inside the guardroom.
“Oh, of course.” Said the Sargeant as she handed her rifle to the remainder of her guard detail who would be remaining outside. She then took out her pistol, ejected the magazine and cleared the chamber as instructed before she entered.
-----------
The provosts nodded and allowed the CSA Sargent through. The rest of their journey to the meeting room was relatively smooth and unadventurous as they were escorted through a series of spartan steel gray corridors and exposed cabling, a mark of the ad-hoc job of plugging in governmental equipment in the last minute during the war where there had been no time to take out the wall panels and do the entire rewiring.
The meeting room was small and intimate, just big enough to accommodate a group of 10-15 people or so for individual project teams. The centerpiece of the room was the relatively large wooden long rectangular table that occupied much of the room’s flooring space, complemented by a perimeter of a myriad of office chairs, scavenged and pieced together from various other offices and places beyond the comms-center. In the middle of the table was a holographic projector. Seated at the table now were three men in black government suits, who stood up to welcome the new arrivals.
“Representative Charlotte, Advisor Dumont, this is the Regional Governor, Al-Jamadi,” Kalsar pointed to the one heading the table, easily distinguished by his bald head, olive-brown skin and a thick black beard. “The one on the left is the head of the regional government’s economic department, Advisor Kel-Farrudi, and the one on the left is the secretary of this city’s Mayor, Jammiyah.”
-----
Kel-Farrudi, a younger man with slicked back hair, nodded in acknowledgement and adjusted his pair of spectacles, while Jammiyah bowed slightly. The three then took their seats, joined by Chief Diplomat Kalsar who sat beside the Regional Governor who then gestured to the CSA visitors to take theirs wherever they please. An aide brought in a tray of refreshments, consisting of a pot of herbal tea and a bowl of various light snacks such as assorted biscuits, sweets and the region’s local favourite, preserved honeyed dates the locals called ‘Gham’.
“Herbal tea is the local favourite in these parts so we serve it as the default drink, though we do have coffee or other kinds of tea if it is to your preference,” Kalsar said as he poured tea for the regional governor, the regional economics advisor and the mayor’s secretary. It was a general nation-wide custom for superiors to pour drinks for their subordinates during small meetings, to build rapport and trust between the worker and the boss.
Sitting across from their RANGSI counterparts Charlotte and Dumont nodded as each individual was introduced.
“Herbal Tea is more then welcome.” Charlotte said with a kind smile, she found the sight somewhat interesting. “May I ask, is it a tradition for, someone whom I assume is of higher rank, to serve a drink for their subordinates?” She asked curiously.
Kalsar and Governor Al-Jamadi looked at each other, nodding approvingly at Charlotte’s comment. “Your observation is very astute, Madam Charlotte,” Kalsar turned back to her. “Yes, it’s a small national tradition if the leader is meeting a small group of subordinates in...how do I explain it...a formal but more intimate setting? It’s still official business, but you’re only with your closest subordinates in a small meeting room as opposed to addressing the whole company in an auditorium kind of thing.”
“Serving this herbal tea to Governor Al-Jamadi, Advisor Kel-Farrudi and Secretary Jammiyah is a small way of thanking them for all their hard work. Mutual respect between the leader and those they lead is the ideal professional relationship in RANGSI,” Kalsar continued his explanation of RANGSI customs to Charlotte. He sipped the herbal tea, savouring its refreshing taste before continuing further.
“Speaking of which, how is our neighbour in the Invilis Corridor doing right now? It’s been some time since your probe and our border patrol made the first contact between our nations.”
Charlotte smiled as she listened to the explanation of the ritual. “That is a rather wholesome tradition I must say. I can see the implications of such a tradition certainly being an improvement to such affairs as I have been privy to within the Colonial Congress.” Charlotte have a soft laugh as she spoke, beaming at Kalsar.
“As for how we are doing, much of it I am not at liberty to speak of fully.” She said in an apologetic tone. “However I can tell you that we have continued to settle in, more colonies developing, research progressing and so on. We’ve been attempting to reach out to various known groups, feeling out our position in this new Galaxy we find ourselves in. Aside from this we have encountered a few bouts of piracy, nothing we have yet been unable to handle of course.”
“That is good to hear Madam Charlotte,” Kalsar put down his cup. “Of course, I understand, matters of national security are hard to divulge. As public servants, you and I, it is indeed a heavy burden to bear.”
“But I ask because I have a business proposition for our good neighbour,” he turned to Al-Jamadi. “Perhaps Governor Al-Jamadi can...explain the situation.”
The governor’s eyes widened slightly as he stopped sipping tea and placed it back on the table. “Yes, of course, of course habibi.”
“No doubt, Madam, you have seen the state of our city. Peaceful now, yes, but there are still many scars from the last war. This city we are in is not the only one, many more are like it within the region I administrate. The people need many things urgently, but we don’t have the resources to speed up the process. The good planetary governor is trying his best, but there are so many regions and so little resources to go around.”
“What his region lacks can be the CSA’s opportunity, Madam Charlotte,” Kalsar returned leading the conversation. “We would like the CSA to come in, set up businesses and inject some investments into Al-Jamadi’s region. It would be a win-win for all of us. 20 million potential customers for the CSA, Al-Jamadi’s people get what they need and my bosses are happy with one less ruined city to rebuild. What do you say?”
The brown haired Congresswoman looked on and smiled wide at the proposal. It was indeed something she knew full well her compatriot within Colonial Congress, especially those with ties to the large Corporation would absolutely jump at the chance. Dumont himself nodded slightly as he knew just the same as Charlotte smiled.
“It is without a doubt a proposition that my government would jump at. Since entering this galaxy we have looked for allies and partners, this is a perfect opportunity to achieve a start towards this end. Without relaying this proposal back to the Colonial Congress I can not make Political decisions. However I can personally promise your people will receive what they need.” She reached out her hand to shake. “You have my own promise.”
“Of course, such is the life of a civil servant,” Kalsar chuckled as he shook Charlotte’s hand. “I hope this will be the start of a new fruitful relationship between our nations.”
The meeting between the CSA and RANGSI representatives ended with a round of handshakes all around. Before Representative Charlotte and Advisor Dumont left for the spaceport proper, they were given additional miscellaneous souvenirs and gifts to bring back to their homeland to share with friends, family and colleagues alike.
In due time, the diplomatic agreement for the CSA’s investment in the region of Al-Jamadi was eventually approved by higher political authorities of both nations, and was officially signed into effect. Together with the investment agreement, like all agreements initiated by RANGSI, was also a non-aggression pact to guarantee peaceful relations between both parties.
Chief Diplomat Kalsar smiled at the news in his office as he looked out the window to gaze at the morning sunrise. “Another job well done.”
Today is the day. Today is my Passing Out Parade.
We've just finished the 30km route march. From yesterday night to today dawn, we marched, we walked - lugging all our full gear and rifles along. We endured the pain in our backs, in our knees, the aching in our shoulders but after what it seems like an eternity, I remember finally seeing grand stands of the Verdasnoya Platform. And behind it, a horizon of neon lights and towers that pierced the sky - the city. Our home. Our spirits lifted up a bit, we made it, we made it all the way from base camp to the very place we would pass out from.
It is all all so surreal. Now, we're only hours away from the end but it felt only yesterday we just enlisted. Heads full of hair, hearts full of fear. Then the whole 3 months just came flashing through; the first night, the PT, our weapons presentation ceremony, getting fucked by our commanders, failing area inspections and getting screamed at by the company Encik and bashing through the jungles and eating MREs. Now, we are all here, close to the final moment. I look to my fellow company mates. We've had our differences, we even fought sometimes but now...we're brothers and sisters.
--
In 10 more minutes, we will fall in for our parade rehearsal. For one last time, the Encik will run us through the drills and commands. He says we have to look damn good, someone special is coming for our parade. He did not tell us exactly who, but I overheard the battalion officers saying something about a foreign dignitary reviewing the parade together with a local government high-ranker before they conduct some negotiations. If that is true, then we better work extra hard in shining our boots and make sure we put on the best parade the foreigner has ever seen, because our entire nation's destiny may very well rest on our POP.
I know my NS is far from being over. Nevertheless, this would be my first big milestone cleared, as my brother said - take it step by step, and before you'd know it, you reached the end.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chief Diplomat Kalsar straightened his tie as his receiving party lie in wait in the airport, patiently awaiting the arrival of their special guest. Security was tightened in the airport - patrols were increased, security agents and snipers had cleared out any spot that seemed like a good sniper nest and the route for their foreign guest all the way from the tarmac to the terminal and to the motorcade was also cleared of civilians. The only civilians present in that exact terminal were government officials, essential staff and members of the press.
"Sir, ATC reports the guest has touched down on the tarmac. Security teams report no abnormalities," one of the black-suited security agents whispered to the Chief Diplomat. Kalsar nodded, and the security agent dismissed himself returning to his post.
Soon enough, Kalsar would come face-to-face with their 'guests' and their entourage.
"Welcome to Kel-Assim IV, ladies and gentlemen. You must be the representative for the Colonial Systems Alliance?" Kalsar's hand extended out to the person at the head of the foreign mission.
----
A pair of figures approached Kalasar as the Security Guard left. Flanking this pair was a squad or so of Naval Marines, their armor and weapons dark grey and black.
Stepping forward in the dark grey and blue suit with skirt was Congressional Representative for Foreign affairs of the CSA, Charlotte Johnson. Her dark hair cut short as always she smiled as she took Kalsar’s hand in her own. “That you very much Chief Diplomat.” The women said as she released his hand. “I am Charlotte Johnson, assigned as the representative for foreign affairs by the Colonial Congress.”
The women gestured to an older man wearing a green and grey uniform, a grey hat with a silver 10 pointed star on the front under his arm. “This man next to me is a recently taken from retirement, Military Advisor Alexander Dumont. I thought it best to bring him along given he was the first to make contact to any other soecies, and his military background makes him perfect for this diplomatic exchange.”
Advisor Dumont bowed his head and moved to take the Chief Diplomats hand as well, a Colonial Army rank insignia of Colonel emblazoned on his uniform. “Thank you for having us here, it’s been a while since I’ve seen an Academy send off.” The old Colonel remarked with a laugh.
"Indeed, I know it is a detour from the negotiations, but since I have been invited as the parade's reviewing officer I thought it would be perfect as a little tour of the country," Kalsar smiled, unconsciously lifting up his hand to his chest where the heart was before putting it back to his side - a habit from Muslim tradition after shaking a person's hand. He gestured them to follow him as he walked to the lobby where a convoy of black armored SUVs were awaiting both RANGSI and CSA diplomatic teams. RANGSI security forces and soldiers eyed the Naval Marines closely, there was a slight tension in the air but their postures remained neutral - firm and vigilant, but never aggressive.
All the SUVs were outwardly identical and had both RANGSI and CSA national flags mounted at the sides to denote their diplomatic status, this was basic security 101 - so any potential enemies do not immediately know which SUV to target. Each SUV allowed for 7 passengers; 1 driver, 1 shotgun, 3 in the middle and 2 more at the back.
"Representative Johnson, Advisor Dumont, please join me in this car," Kalsar pointed at the SUV in the middle. "If you like, you can take one soldier with us. The rest can fill up the other SUVs behind."
“That sounds like a splendid idea.” Charlotte said with a smile, Dumont giving a nod in agreement.
The Representative nodded to Kalsar’s request giving the Naval Marines a nod. The Sargent of the squad stepped forward, the slightly thinner form denoting it as a women, her compact A-34n Carbine right to her chest.
“Lead on Chief Diplomat.” Advisor Dumont said straightening his cap.
After the CSA officials had taken their seats, the motorcade convoy drove off, exiting the airport and turning right towards the highway. Highway 14, one of the many highways linked to the airport and the only highway connected to the Verdasnoya Floating Platform, had been closed off to the public three days prior to facilitate Chief Diplomat Kalsar's, and now Representative Johnson and Advisor Dumont's, visit to the parade. Only emergency vehicles were allowed to use the highway which was guarded by a combined force of police officers and more heavily armed Planetary Militiamen. The convoy stopped before the security checkpoint at the highway's entrance, drivers rolled down their windshields and presented special passes to the police officers manning the ad-hoc barricades. Passenger windows were not rolled down, this was to ensure that Kalsar, the CSA officials and the security personnel remained safe behind the bulletproof tinted glass. Police officers used fiber optic cameras ascertain their identities instead. Satisfied, they opened up the barricades and saluted as the convoy drove past.
-----
Kel-Assim IV is an arid world, the planet is quite dry with endless seas of sand rock. Even where they were, one of the cities in the equatorial belt where there is some rainfall and some small water bodies, there was still alot of sand, only now complemented with brown-greenish arid vegetation of thorny shrubs and cacti forests. Sal-Darim City was something of an in-development upstart; it was currently in transition from a colonial settlement to a full fledged megacity. Only a handful of gleaming white spires were seen protruding out of a sea of biodomes and prefab-habitats, though the abundance of scaffolding and cranes hinted at ongoing development.
As the motorcade drove past the sky-piercing tower of one of Kel-Assim IV's five orbital elevators, Military Police motobikes rallied with the convoy, taking up flanking positions to provide escort as they exited Highway 14 and moved onto the road leading to the Verdasnoya Floating Platform. Police UAVs hovered above the city, scanning the rooftops for any unusual activity as they trailed the motorcade. It won't be long before they finally reach the Platform.
-------------------------
"Dari kanan! Cepat jalan!"
We marched out of the gallery to a melody of applause, drums and the clicking of our boots. Unwavering, we held our heads high, with a firm grasp on our rifles, as we formed up the parade. Our parents, our loved ones, were all watching us from the grand stand. It was as if the whole world was watching us.
We shouldered our arms and stood in parade, awaiting our guests of honour. It did not take them long to arrive, five minutes later several black cars drove past and stopped in front of the podium. Military Policemen, distinct with their ironed dark green uniforms and white helmets that displayed the words 'MP' in red on the front of the helmet, opened up the doors, saluting as the VIPs stepped out. One of them was in a blue military style uniform, with four golden triangles on each shoulder and he manned the podium. The other two that followed him, one of them a dark-haired woman in a dark gray and blue suit and the other an older man in green and grey uniform, judging by the uniforms and the ten-pointed star insignia these two seemed to be the foreign dignitaries our Encik was talking about.
"Baris! Hormat RO dan Dignitari! Hormat Senjata!" our parade commander and CO of our training battalion, Captain Julian Lee, barked the order to present arms to the VIPs.
---------------
The recruits before Kalsar and the CSA officials gave their salute to them with their rifles. In one sharp and unified motion, thousands of recruits grabbed their handguards and thrusted their rifles forwards, bringing them to the middle of their torsos, while raising and stomping down their right foot just behind their left foot, forming a L-shape of sorts. With their boyish and girlish faces, these men and women were barely adults - at the fresh age of 18 they resembled more like teenagers, more accurately teenagers in full battle order complete with dark green uniforms, field packs and body armor, and guns in hand.
Kalsar saluted in response as the Reviewing Officer (RO) of the parade.
"Rusuk senjata!" the command was given to shoulder arms.
"Senang diri!" the command was then given to stand at ease.
------
Kalsar laid out his written speech on the podium and adjusted the microphone.
"Good morning, soldiers, parents, guests and our foreign dignitaries from the Colonial Systems Alliance, Representative Charlotte and Advisor Dumont," Kalsar gestured to each of the CSA officials, introducing them to the recruits in parade as well as the civilian attendees.
"Today is the momentous day for our young men and women. Today marks the end of the recruits' basic training, the end of three months of hard training that have tested their physical and mental limits in their journey to become soldiers of the Republik. As we speak, these recruits have just endured a long 30 kilometers route march, marching in full gear all the way from their base in Jerychoko to here, on the Verdasnoya Platform. To them, I say, congratulations for reaching the end of this journey."
"However, this is not the end of your service, you will spend the rest of your two years specializing in various vocations and undertaking operational roles in the defence of our Republik. Dare I say, as fully-fledged and fully trained soldiers, more responsibility is now on your shoulders to defend your home, your loved ones and your country. Even with the end of the 2nd Ancerious War, threats are still everpresent with belligerent factions, state or non-state actors alike, who seek the destruction of the Republik. While yes, the primary intent of National Service is to train and equip you with the know-how to defend your country on your own home soil while wars abroad are fought by Regular volunteers, never ever assume that war will never come here to your homes."
----
"For just ten years ago, I have personally witnessed this Platform attacked by APP-backed insurgents during your predecessor's own Passing Out Parade. The recruits before you on that day showed extreme valour and courage, despite having no bullets or any weapons on their person, they brought up their rifles and charged towards the grand stand where the attackers were. Hundreds of them died before they were able to complete their service as they fell victim to gunfire before the rest of their brothers and sisters closed the distance and melee'd them with their rifle stocks to death. Today, the bullet holes and scars of the bombs remain on the Platform if you look around. This is the visible reminder to all of you that threats are not a matter of if they happen, but when they happen. The reason you give up three years of your youth to National Service is so that if the enemy ever reaches your soil, you are ready to defend everything you love."
"With that, as your Reviewing Officer, I stand proud to bear witness to your transformation into full-fledged soldiers of the Republik," Kalsar ended his speech. He turned to the Dumont and Charlotte. "Advisor Dumont, Representative Charlotte, would you like to say a few words to our young recruits?"
Through out the ride, the march and the speech the pair of CSA representatives were silent and watchful. Both Dumont and Charlotte were impressed, both at the similarity and efficiency of it all. Dumont himself felt almost a flash back in his mind to the long ago days of his own training. He too has trained during a time of turmoil, the Colony War era in full swing and as Kalaar finished Dumont nodded and stepped forwards when allowed.
“Greetings, young men and women, today I am told you become soldiers.” He smiled. “That’s only in writing. As a military man myself I can tell you that no matter how much training you receive, the first taste of battle will truly test if you learned anything.”
“From what I am told, those who came before you had already faced that first baptism. I sincerely hope, that you are so lucky as to be spared from this, but be prepared if it does come.”
“I have seen war, I lost a brother to it, I lost a wife to it, and I lost a son to it. War and conflict is a fickle, untamed and bloodthirsty beast. And one day you May have to face it down, with naught but your training and the comrades by your side. You will be tested, in ways that even your training never taught you how to react and must learn to make decisions sometimes within seconds of them being presented.”
“And if your anything like the boys and girls back home in the CSA. I have no doubt that you will crush the expectations when that day does come.”
----
Kalsar nodded as he stepped forward again. Taking a deep breath, he stood at attention and raised his right palm.
"I! S-901D! Chief Diplomat Kalsar! Hereby stand ready to witness the recruits take their oath!" his voice echoed throughout the floating platform.
The parade commander immediately sharpened their posture as he resumed, issuing further commands to continue the parade. "Kawalan Kehormatan! Masuk baris!"
"Sir!" the Colours party shouted in response to the order to fall in formation from below the gallery. They marched to the front, bringing the National Flag and the Regimental Colours of the training battalion before the recruits.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, please stand for the National Flag and the Colours," the announcer said. The audience stood up while the flag bearers marched forth. Military personnel attending as guests saluted, and as the Reviewing Officer, Kalsar did so as well.
The flag bearers presented the flags before the parade commander who gave his compliments to the flag. Then the officer bearing the National Flag stepped forward and dipped the flag to a recruit in the center of his company, which was in turn the center of the entire battalion and thus the entire parade.
"Baris! Angkat tangan kiri ke bahu di kanan! Akan ambil ikrar! Ang-Kat!" the parade commander called for the recruits to raise their free left hand and place them on the right shoulder of the recruit standing to their left, forming a chain of hands that linked to the centermost recruit who was grabbed the National Flag in his own left hand.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, we shall now witness the recruits to recite the Armed Forces Pledge before the flag."
------
The end is near. My left hand was on the right shoulder of the soldier next to me. All of us were connected.
I said with all my might and gusto, joining the chorus of thousands of others.
We, members of the Singapore Armed Forces
Do solemnly and sincerely pledge that
We will always bear true faith and allegiance
To the Autarchs and the Republic of Singapore
We will always support and defend the Constitution
We will preserve and protect,
The honour and independence of our country
WITH OUR LIVES!
-------
"Baris! Sedia!" the recruits then placed down their hands back to attention position. The platform erupted into cheers and applause.
"Baris! Akan berjalan keluar, dalam masa cepat! Ke kanan pu-sing!" the order was then given to face left and prepare to march off in quick time.
"Dulang Senjata!" the recruits then held their weapons in high port. "Dari kanan! Cepat jalan!"
The entire battalion then marched off to the beat of drums and military percussion, company by company. As the company marched past the podium, they would tilt their rifles upwards and turned their heads to face the Reviewing Officer and the CSA dignitaries as form of salute, before sharply facing the front again after the company has finished marching past. This would repeat until the very last company.
------
After the last company of recruits marched past, the diplomatic motorcade returned, flanked by military police bikes, and stopped right in front of the podium. Chief Diplomat Kalsar, Advisor Dumont and Representative Charlotte were ushered into the SUVs before they drove off exiting the stadium. The last part of the parade, the throwing of their patrol caps, would have to go on without them for there were more important matters to attend to on the itinerary.
The scene changed back to that of the arid urban landscape. This time however, the fields of sands around them seemed to be much less inhabited. A bombed out apartment building collapsed just right next to the highway they were driving on, a good 4 klicks away, as a wrecking ball smashed into it breaking it into pieces of Rangcrete that joined the sea of ruins and rubble that lay beneath them. Dozers scooped up the debris, pouring them onto large dumpster trucks who then drove to pour them out again into mobile smelters that recycled the Rangcrete. Out from the smelters came batches of newly baked Rangcrete bricks, destined for new construction projects.
-----
Then, after the rubble was cleared, new foundations were laid down in their stead. Macroprinters shot out smart bricks at precise locations, arranging and layering them without rest or tire. Some who were already at it for a few hours managed to construct something that resembled a skeleton of a twenty-story apartment building. Entire communities were being demolished and rebuilt again, all in a span of a day.
"It's finally good to see this part being rebuilt, last I came here it was a warzone. Religious fanatics, backed by a communist nation of all people, were going around not just attacking the stadium but bombing the apartments as well. It was unfortunate the 2nd Ancerious War forced resources elsewhere but now with that out of the way the government was able to re-channel back them towards reconstruction," Kalsar commented as the motorcade finally reached their destination- a military communications center converted into a temporary local government office.
"My apologies for travelling a far bit from the city, the government's capital hall is being rebuilt in the center of the city as we speak. This communications center was the best option to house the functions of governance with all their comms relays and a secure underground bunker," Kalsar stepped out of the car. A MP sergeant opened the doors for Advisor Dumont and Representative Charlotte. "If you would follow me to the meeting room, please."
Dumont and Ms, Charlotte entered the diplomatic motorcade without issue, following as they were ushered forward. The female Naval Marine Sargent that had accompanied them while the others filled other vehicles in the convoy sitting where she had been previously.
As the landscape changed, the old lines face of Advisor Dumont grew melancholic as he looked out at the rubble and bombed out buildings. He was greatly impressed as was Congresswoman Johnson, however it did seem as though the sight brought memories to the forefront of the old mans mind.
As Kalsar spoke, detailing what caused the devastation Dumont gave a grimace and nodded. “I have dealt with the like, it’s always brutal.....and never lenient. Such warfare.....it’s hard to call it as such.”
The arrival at the communications center seemed to shake Dumont from his melancholy as he straighter himself, adjusting his hat similar to Charlotte with her dress. Charlotte smiled at Kalsar, her dark hair framing her face. “It’s quite alright, from what we’ve seen your people will have it rebuilt in no time, perhaps we might see it another time.” She said in her kind voice, Dumont nodding in response, the Naval Marine Sargent seemingly doing so as well almost in reflex.
“Such a military and governmental reason does it justice as a base of operations.” Dumont said once he nodded, recognizing the necessity and strategic value of its use. Once the door was opened, the pair alongside the Sargent, unless told otherwise, followed Kalsar inside.
The comms-center outside the city had been initially built for its intended military purpose - first as a command center for the planetary brigades stationed to protect the city and second as a signal relay to boost the command and control capabilities of any RANGSI forces in the area. During the Third April Fools War with Separatist Union forces and their associated insurgent forces, these functions were put to the test. The sudden wave of terrorist attacks that signalled that the war had finally reached there erupted from within as insurgents bombed strategic targets in the inner cities, spreading out and linking up with other elements. The stadium which hosted the parades of young conscripts was not the only one. As mentioned, the government hall and a few other state buildings were engulfed during the insurgency. It was this comms-center and bases on the outskirts that kept the rebels in and coordinated the efforts to recapture the city. Today, that war was over. In current peacetime, its facilities were temporarily leased out to the surviving government officials to maintain contact with other regions and the planetary government while military and sensitive assets were relocated into the deeper ends of the facility.
----
Peacetime did not mean low-security however, Provosts and MPs from the local 3rd Internal Security Brigade were on watch, manning various sentry posts and checkpoints. The ones inside the comms center were lightly armed with a pistol and a baton. Since this foreign visit was a planned one and had prior approval, thankfully there would not be a whole labyrinth of security procedures to slow down anybody, just a quick walk through the detector gates to make sure the civilians were not carrying any prohibited items.
“Ma’am, as you are protecting your national officials, we allow you the option to bring in a sidearm, if you have any, but it must be unloaded and cleared at the bullet catcher there. If you want, we can also safekeep it for you in the guardroom armoury and we will return it to you before you leave,” the provost manning the detector station briefed the CSA Naval Marine Sergeant as it was her turn, pointing to the metallic red cylinder object that was bolted to the ground just outside the main guardroom. This was where relieved armed sentries would go to clear their weapons before they were allowed to return inside the guardroom.
“Oh, of course.” Said the Sargeant as she handed her rifle to the remainder of her guard detail who would be remaining outside. She then took out her pistol, ejected the magazine and cleared the chamber as instructed before she entered.
-----------
The provosts nodded and allowed the CSA Sargent through. The rest of their journey to the meeting room was relatively smooth and unadventurous as they were escorted through a series of spartan steel gray corridors and exposed cabling, a mark of the ad-hoc job of plugging in governmental equipment in the last minute during the war where there had been no time to take out the wall panels and do the entire rewiring.
The meeting room was small and intimate, just big enough to accommodate a group of 10-15 people or so for individual project teams. The centerpiece of the room was the relatively large wooden long rectangular table that occupied much of the room’s flooring space, complemented by a perimeter of a myriad of office chairs, scavenged and pieced together from various other offices and places beyond the comms-center. In the middle of the table was a holographic projector. Seated at the table now were three men in black government suits, who stood up to welcome the new arrivals.
“Representative Charlotte, Advisor Dumont, this is the Regional Governor, Al-Jamadi,” Kalsar pointed to the one heading the table, easily distinguished by his bald head, olive-brown skin and a thick black beard. “The one on the left is the head of the regional government’s economic department, Advisor Kel-Farrudi, and the one on the left is the secretary of this city’s Mayor, Jammiyah.”
-----
Kel-Farrudi, a younger man with slicked back hair, nodded in acknowledgement and adjusted his pair of spectacles, while Jammiyah bowed slightly. The three then took their seats, joined by Chief Diplomat Kalsar who sat beside the Regional Governor who then gestured to the CSA visitors to take theirs wherever they please. An aide brought in a tray of refreshments, consisting of a pot of herbal tea and a bowl of various light snacks such as assorted biscuits, sweets and the region’s local favourite, preserved honeyed dates the locals called ‘Gham’.
“Herbal tea is the local favourite in these parts so we serve it as the default drink, though we do have coffee or other kinds of tea if it is to your preference,” Kalsar said as he poured tea for the regional governor, the regional economics advisor and the mayor’s secretary. It was a general nation-wide custom for superiors to pour drinks for their subordinates during small meetings, to build rapport and trust between the worker and the boss.
Sitting across from their RANGSI counterparts Charlotte and Dumont nodded as each individual was introduced.
“Herbal Tea is more then welcome.” Charlotte said with a kind smile, she found the sight somewhat interesting. “May I ask, is it a tradition for, someone whom I assume is of higher rank, to serve a drink for their subordinates?” She asked curiously.
Kalsar and Governor Al-Jamadi looked at each other, nodding approvingly at Charlotte’s comment. “Your observation is very astute, Madam Charlotte,” Kalsar turned back to her. “Yes, it’s a small national tradition if the leader is meeting a small group of subordinates in...how do I explain it...a formal but more intimate setting? It’s still official business, but you’re only with your closest subordinates in a small meeting room as opposed to addressing the whole company in an auditorium kind of thing.”
“Serving this herbal tea to Governor Al-Jamadi, Advisor Kel-Farrudi and Secretary Jammiyah is a small way of thanking them for all their hard work. Mutual respect between the leader and those they lead is the ideal professional relationship in RANGSI,” Kalsar continued his explanation of RANGSI customs to Charlotte. He sipped the herbal tea, savouring its refreshing taste before continuing further.
“Speaking of which, how is our neighbour in the Invilis Corridor doing right now? It’s been some time since your probe and our border patrol made the first contact between our nations.”
Charlotte smiled as she listened to the explanation of the ritual. “That is a rather wholesome tradition I must say. I can see the implications of such a tradition certainly being an improvement to such affairs as I have been privy to within the Colonial Congress.” Charlotte have a soft laugh as she spoke, beaming at Kalsar.
“As for how we are doing, much of it I am not at liberty to speak of fully.” She said in an apologetic tone. “However I can tell you that we have continued to settle in, more colonies developing, research progressing and so on. We’ve been attempting to reach out to various known groups, feeling out our position in this new Galaxy we find ourselves in. Aside from this we have encountered a few bouts of piracy, nothing we have yet been unable to handle of course.”
“That is good to hear Madam Charlotte,” Kalsar put down his cup. “Of course, I understand, matters of national security are hard to divulge. As public servants, you and I, it is indeed a heavy burden to bear.”
“But I ask because I have a business proposition for our good neighbour,” he turned to Al-Jamadi. “Perhaps Governor Al-Jamadi can...explain the situation.”
The governor’s eyes widened slightly as he stopped sipping tea and placed it back on the table. “Yes, of course, of course habibi.”
“No doubt, Madam, you have seen the state of our city. Peaceful now, yes, but there are still many scars from the last war. This city we are in is not the only one, many more are like it within the region I administrate. The people need many things urgently, but we don’t have the resources to speed up the process. The good planetary governor is trying his best, but there are so many regions and so little resources to go around.”
“What his region lacks can be the CSA’s opportunity, Madam Charlotte,” Kalsar returned leading the conversation. “We would like the CSA to come in, set up businesses and inject some investments into Al-Jamadi’s region. It would be a win-win for all of us. 20 million potential customers for the CSA, Al-Jamadi’s people get what they need and my bosses are happy with one less ruined city to rebuild. What do you say?”
The brown haired Congresswoman looked on and smiled wide at the proposal. It was indeed something she knew full well her compatriot within Colonial Congress, especially those with ties to the large Corporation would absolutely jump at the chance. Dumont himself nodded slightly as he knew just the same as Charlotte smiled.
“It is without a doubt a proposition that my government would jump at. Since entering this galaxy we have looked for allies and partners, this is a perfect opportunity to achieve a start towards this end. Without relaying this proposal back to the Colonial Congress I can not make Political decisions. However I can personally promise your people will receive what they need.” She reached out her hand to shake. “You have my own promise.”
“Of course, such is the life of a civil servant,” Kalsar chuckled as he shook Charlotte’s hand. “I hope this will be the start of a new fruitful relationship between our nations.”
The meeting between the CSA and RANGSI representatives ended with a round of handshakes all around. Before Representative Charlotte and Advisor Dumont left for the spaceport proper, they were given additional miscellaneous souvenirs and gifts to bring back to their homeland to share with friends, family and colleagues alike.
In due time, the diplomatic agreement for the CSA’s investment in the region of Al-Jamadi was eventually approved by higher political authorities of both nations, and was officially signed into effect. Together with the investment agreement, like all agreements initiated by RANGSI, was also a non-aggression pact to guarantee peaceful relations between both parties.
Chief Diplomat Kalsar smiled at the news in his office as he looked out the window to gaze at the morning sunrise. “Another job well done.”