Prime Minister Ayrault had no expectations when he arrived in the Union of Duxburian Dominions. He had only heard about Les Duxburiens, and the idea that he would be the first Gaulois prime minister to make it to the capital of such an influential nation...he was proud of that. His plane touched down at Blackstone International Airport. He was taken with how efficient everything looked. The architecture was not utilitarian, but it was the pinnacle of efficiency, function and aesthetic all at once.
"Mon Dieu," exclaimed Ayrault. He had been studying his notes in the notorious Blue Notebooks, the files that all government ministers carry with them. "This makes an amazing impression."
He was immediately greeted by aides who scurried him and his trusted aide Alize towards the transportation to the famed Federal Citadel. Alize looked at the walls. She found idyllic scenery and art that made her feel less austere. The Duxburians had really taken time to make a good first impression.
"They know our country well, even from afar..." Alize said to the Prime Minister. Ayrault turned to her and smiled.
"They know our country well because they know every country well. It takes a lot to catch a Duxburian off guard," Ayrault said to Alize. "Have you ever noticed the Duxburian tourists to Aurelis? They laugh at how relatively simple our metro is by comparison to the almost three-dimensional chess that is their metro systems. Never mind that they have created innovations that we still use to this day. You see that 5G in the corner?"
Alize nodded, then gasped at the suggestion that the Duxburians made the 5G network.
"Do you see the phone itself, my dear? Apple? They made it," Ayrault replied. "The Government had quite a time ordering phones and computers from the Union but I think they were at least happy to do it considering the Kingdom of Gallorum is at least sane."
Ayrault took a moment to reflect on what had happened in the European Union in the last two weeks. Communist uprisings, bombings of the URR, the resignation of Elisabeth Baschet, the air superiority campaign in La Manche, the peace deal in Vayinaod, the meeting with Fremet. So much had happened. It has taken a toll on the machinations of the civil service, but they got back around in front of the action. They always do...praetorian in how they pursue information and policy.
Upon arrival at the Federal Citadel, Alize gasped again. She noticed the turrets and draw bridge. Ayrault seemed...unshaken. Alize looked at the Prime Minister as the Duxburian aides ushered them towards the entrance.
"Well, aside from breakfast with Alexandria, I'm quite glad I've lost a few kilos over the last couple of years," Ayrault joked. The draw bridge itself was sturdier than it looked, but it made for a hell of an entrance. Alize looked over the bridge towards the abyss and let out a yelp. Ayrault offered his arm. "No worries, ma'moiselle. You will be fine. This is a prime example of Duxburian architecture and ingenuity. What does it project to you, Alize?"
"Intimidation....anxiety..." Alize began. Ayrault laughed,.
"Intimidation, yes. But with good reason. As the old saying goes...the only animal whose bark is backed up by its bite is the Duxburian Armed Forces. Their display in the skies of Dromund Kaas, my god..."
They arrived at the room and stopped at the door. They were surprised at how modest the room was within the bastion. Ayrault looked around and found the Duxburian. Ayrault cleared his throat and then spoke in English rather slowly, as if thinking about every word.
"Hello! Thank you for your wonderful welcome to your beautiful country! As the daughter of Rome, we appreciate such quality architecture. It shows the true strength of the aura that is...eh...how do you say in English...L'Union Duxburien."
