Palazzo Malzo
A woman entered a large office, a desk on the left side and a spacious conference and living area to the right. It was quiet and its colours were sober, an oasis in the middle of the administrative and political desert that filled the various room at the Palazzo Malzo. Long the residence and official workplace of the First Councillor, it was also the main location for meetings between the former and his various councillors. This office belonged to First Councillor Marco Valerio, and the woman was Grazia Marelli, Councillor of the Foreign Office and longtime friend and confidant of the head of government. She often spent time with Valerio after office hours, usually eating at restaurants or attending the theatre with their respective wives. This time however the location was an office, and the subject matter was a serious one.
"First Councillor" she spoke "I hope you had time to read the brief on the situation in Tenochtitlan?"
Valerio was standing behind his desk, reading some papers while holding a pencil on his left hand. "Grazia, good to see you. I'm aware of the situation. What I want to discuss with you and Giovanni is what exactly we can do to help them."
Just as he said that, two knocks were heared, and a slender man with glasses and a balding head entered the office. He was wearing a grey suit with a white shirt and blue tie, his trademark apparel, and one that had served him well through the years. Giovanni Zunino was the Assistant Councillor for International Cooperation, a highly regarded senator and one of the most respected experts in development aid.
"Welcome Giovanni" said Valerio "Have you been informed of the situation?"
Zunino nodded and took his place next to Valerio. "I have, First Councillor. I hope this meeting can be productive, because timing is of the essence in this case."
Valerio gestured for them to sit in the living area, and once everyone has seated he leaned forward and spoke to both. "I think we all agree that a statement in solidarity is necessary. In addition, I want to offer any assistance the Mexica might need, and I want ACIC to be point with this." He look at Zunino "Can you take the lead on this one, Giovanni?"
"I can." He replied "In fact, I already have some ideas for what our role might be. If I may?" Valerio made an inviting gesture. "We should obviously provide technical and financial assistance following the current crisis, since I assume there will be much rebuilding to be done. In addition, we should help in evacuation efforts right away, sending our 2nd Fleet to help transport those living in Tenochtitlan to other areas, ideally near Virellia. This and any other assistance would be with the permission and at the discretion of the Mexica Government, naturally."
Valerio nodded, turning now to Marelli. "Grazia? What do you think?"
"I think assisting the Mexica is in the best interests of both our nations, sir. It definitely is a moral imperative, and Tepetitlan is our neighbour, so it would be illogical not to help them. I agree with everything Giovanni has outlined, and I could begin coordinating with the Premier of Tepetitlan as soon as you give the order."
"You shall have it then. To the both of you, please coordinate with the Military Office and the Mexica, so everything is done by the book, but make it as quick as possible. I'll send you the authorisation later today."
All rose, and shook hands as Marelli and Zunino headed towards the exit. As they both exited, Valerio stuck his head out and asked his personal secretary. "Emilio, can you please get me in touch with the Premier of Tepetitlan?"