The American In Another World
Chapter 61: Gesta Betting

10 February

Washington DC

Quiet streets and sidewalks flashed as Prince Gra Cabal looked out his car window, admiring the view. The Gesta delegation also analyzed the passing views. Pedestrians rarely fill the streets - a stark contrast to what he sees in San Diego and New York. Everything he saw showed that this was a rather typical population center, certainly not suitable for the title of 'capital'. If anything, New York City — built over Ragna — is his impression of the capital city.

Curious about the small size of the city and the limited grandeur compared to capitals like Ragna, Runepolis, Otaheit, and even Leiforia, Cabal asked, “Agen Nomura, is this really the capital? It is slightly smaller than New York City.”.

Nomura chuckled, “Yes, Your Majesty, this is a little smaller. I have asked this question several times before when I was studying history at that time. There is no one single reason, more like several. Washington DC was founded very late, in relation to human history on Earth. Unlike Old World capitals, which were built during centuries of conquest and hundreds of generations, DC was built for the primary function that the capital would serve.

The inquisitive prince pushed Nomura further, "So this city mainly serves most of the purpose of bureaucracy and government?"

Nomura answered cautiously, wondering if Prince Cabal asked because he wanted to plan a decapitation. “Agaknya, despite having fifty other state capitals definitely help with that. I will elaborate further, but this is not my area of expertise.

Cabal backed off, seemingly satisfied with the answer. "So so. Maybe one day I will return to visit this beautiful state.”

“Your Majesty, it is the most appropriate idea, especially if we want to build friendly relations,” said Cielia, aware of the diplomatic impact of the presence of important figures of countries spending time in other countries.

“I agree with Miss Oudwin. On Earth, leaders from our closest allies often visit the United States for holidays, ” Nomura said.

Fearing the influence of the prince and his friendly disposition with the Americans, Gesta felt that such activities were contrary to his and His Majesty's interests. His investment in war-industry stocks as well as his relationship with many pro-war investors would falter if the Prince continued to be friendly with America. He quickly replied, “Your Highness, it is also a distraction from your prince's studies and duties. I'm sorry for this, but your father was also very adamant when he asked you not to interfere in the affairs of my department. Gesta took a breath, relaxed his expression and switched to a not-so-aggressive tone, “It is best not to accept the idea until His Majesty gives permission. I hope you understand."

Prince Cabal replied firmly, "I appreciate the warning, Gesta." She stood up straight and returned the favor, “I also want to remind you that my memory is pure. I spoke to Dad and can remember his words. Therefore, I believe witnessing negotiations is not considered a distraction. I'm sure you don't mind if I just watch?

"Ah." Gesta smiled, giving off the impression of courtesy even though her smile came from relief. “I actually have no say in that. The President of America actually wants to meet with you, Your Majesty. That's on Cielia's schedule for our Washington DC visit.”

Cabal scratched the back of his head, “Oh, I guess I must have missed it.” He turned to face Cielia, "Miss Oudwin, do you know what is being asked of me?"

Cielia nodded, “Yes, Your Majesty. Your meeting with President Lee includes a photo shoot. Unfortunately, you have to entertain their press for a moment before you can discuss the matter in person with the President.”

"so yeah... And what are you gonna do?"

“We will discuss the terms with our American colleagues: Secretary of State and his department. I have a copy of your schedule here, Your Highness,” he handed a piece of paper to the Cabal. “It looks like there is a time conflict between your responsibilities and the negotiations. I'm afraid it may be difficult for you to attend during the meeting.”

"All right, I get it." Cabal looks into the eyes of every Foreign Office, “I believe that you will carry out my Father's will with extraordinary.”

"Of course, Your Majesty," said Gesta, followed by similar thanks from Cielia and Dallas.

The conversation in the vehicle died down as they approached Blair House. For the Gra Valkans who had the privilege, the exterior of the structure was very disappointing. It was almost indistinguishable from the other buildings they saw on the way here. As they set foot inside, however, they encounter an unremarkable interior that seems to represent the epitome of humble luxury. The artwork and furniture inside screamed 'classy', albeit unsuspecting outside.

As Cabal and his colleagues marveled at the elegance within, they inevitably wondered what such a design meant about their position. Compared to the luxury hotels and megamans they visited, this residence - as well as the White House itself - was too humble. For a country like the United States, with all its economic strength and prosperity, why is the home of its leaders so simple?

Cabal walked towards Nomura, who had just finished giving orders to a group of his men, and expressed his opinion. "Agent Nomura," he called out to her.

"Your Majesty, enjoy this place?"

The cabal smiled politely. “I do, though I should ask: what is the standard policy to minimize the splendor of your leader's home? Compared to the plantations we've seen in San Diego and New York and on the Internet, this place is somewhat, looking for the right adjective before finally deciding, “... Tasteless.”

“Then, how do other countries know how strong your leader is?”

“Back to Earth, everyone knows. I'm sorry, but I don't know how to explain this. I guess it's just something that becomes unnecessary over time.”

The cabal was still curious, but stopped his question. He thought that he might be able to figure out the reason from the President himself, and it was better if he did not distract Nomura from his work. "So so. Well, I'll get ready for the camera. Thank you for your answer, Agent Nomura.”

——

Planning an upcoming meeting with the American Secretary of State, Gesta personally coordinated the strategy with Cielia and Dallas. While Prince Cabal prepared himself to please the crowd and the press, Gesta reviewed the plans passed by the Emperor. Stretched out on the table in front of them were three packages, each detailing a specific plan to be implemented depending on the current circumstances.

The first package contained the strategies favored by Emperor Gra Lux, who prioritized prudence, but still left room for aggressive policies in the future. Representing the Gesta's opinion on the issue, the strategy calls for a relatively neutral approach to the United States. Because it was too early to make any conclusions about the technology, economy, and military might of the United States, the Gesta was reluctant to lock themselves in a situation they could not avoid - be it friendly or aggressive. He wanted to buy some time, leaking as little information as possible about the Gra Valkas Empire while learning as much as he could about the United States. Already, they see opportunities with Naguano's freedom of navigation around museums and libraries, and Gesta feels wise to take advantage of this.

Most importantly, he could look for a non-aggression pact. With the increasingly strong relationship between Americans, Muans, and Mirishial, the possibility of — friendship may even be a — alliance between their host countries is becoming more and more likely. In a sudden change of character, Emperor Gra Lux issued an explicit order not to incur the ire of Americans. Gesta suspected that it had something to do with the video his department received during their first meeting with the American diplomat. At first, he thought it was another piece of propaganda, designed to scare the arrogant Gra Valkans into submission. The Emperor's reaction suggested otherwise; his reaction showed that the fear was indeed real. Further research by Naguano corroborated this, leading the Gesta to question its loyalty to warhawks and the war industry,

Amidst the conversation with Dallas who were arrogant and prone to aggression, the realization shocked him. There is only one possible reason, aside from insanity, that the Emperor wanted this path open: he had access to similar super weapons, or was in the process of obtaining them. Risking this assumption during negotiations will be reckless, but profitable as long as Americans don't bully it.

If circumstances suggest that his bluff is unimportant, or that Americans are somehow immune to such weapons, then the second and third strategies are his plans of retreat.

The second strategy, developed by Cielia, outlines the path to peace and friendship, calling for the establishment of deep trade relations followed by research agreements. Although this route guaranteed immunity from American weapons, it basically reduced the status of the Gra Valkas Empire to mere satellites, barely different from Mu and the Mirishial Holy Empire. This recognition of inferiority is unacceptable, and therefore is the least preferred strategy of the three strategies.

The latter strategy, developed jointly by Kurtz and Dallas, emphasized isolationism. Modified by American isolationist research during World War 2, the strategy proposed minimal contact with America, aside from small trade and other opportunities that allowed for spying. A preemptive Pearl Harbor-style attack was also proposed by Dallas, but was quickly destroyed by Naguano. He opposed the logistical efficiency of the plan and highlighted its ineffectiveness against opponents with superior surveillance technology.

Confirming their decision to follow up with the first strategy, the three continued to put forward hypotheticals and generate responses in preparation for negotiations.

——

White House

A block away from the Gra Valkans discussion, President Lee listens from the Oval Office. He and various intelligence agencies tracked the Gra Valkans through small recording devices planted throughout the hotel, vehicles, and designated devices. He looked at the camera on the large monitor, observing the various feeds as the Gra Valkans spoke amongst themselves. Director Klein and Secretary Heiden sat on the sofa beside him, planning his next move based on the delegation's conversation.

"Lord Almighty," Heiden said, watching as Gesta continued to talk to Dallas about the words of Emperor Gra Lux.

“This is the clearest confirmation we have of the existence of the Gra Valkan nuclear arsenal,” President Lee said in shock.

Klein did not share their sentiments, instead reacting suspiciously. “This could be a confirmation, sir, but I think most likely they are still in the process of finding out. Sir, I would recommend assigning a Defense Support Program satellite to monitor the mainland Gra Valkans and their island territories for signs of nuclear testing.

“Hmm...” Lee took a breath, considering that suggestion. “Yes, that seems like a good idea. Apart from our discovery,” he turned towards Heiden, “I believe this new revelation is important. Gordon, if possible, I want non-proliferation to take precedence over other negotiating topics.”

Heiden nodded, understanding the risk of letting an aggressive and expansionist state like the Gra Valka Empire rule free over weapons development. “Master, what if they already have supplies and do not want to comply with our demands?”

Lee's eyebrows and mouth turned in frustration. “I'm not— Um,” his sigh, “Then, gosh, I think it's best to focus on limiting their missile technology. Even though their technology isn't as advanced as ours, there's still a chance they'll use nuclear to fight our new friend, or worse. I know this is not a feature of their arrogance, but it's possible that they could use one of these weapons as a dirty bomb and hit one of our beaches.”

Heiden replied simply "yes". After a moment of silence, he continued, "Master, is there anything else you want me to focus on?"

“I... will leave the rest at your discretion, Gordon. I am open to the prospects of the Elysian Defense Initiative that we heard about earlier. Keep in mind that I would rather be closer to the natives of the Elysians than to the Gra Valkans. Excuse me,” he shook the hands of Klein and Heiden, “I have to prepare for a meeting with the royal family. Hopefully he has a secret to shed.