Meeting My Ministers

POV - Governor CAL

[Day 1, March 2002, 11am]

"Well, son, you're late for your daily briefing. You'll be meeting with your appointed Ministers, the best and brightest this region has to offer," the General informed me with a hint of authority.

His words stung with a bitter truth. "Right... the brightest you could find after leading the country to ruin," I muttered under my breath, feeling the weight of the situation. "Without local representation, we'll essentially have an executive council. A dictatorship. Not unlike the regime you've just ousted."

The idea of assuming dictatorial powers sent a shiver down my spine, but the allure of wielding such authority was undeniable. Yet, the prospect also filled me with dread, fearing that these newfound powers would reveal my inadequacies. Still, with no opposition to contend with, there was potential to achieve great things and lead this region to prosperity.

I watched as the General mulled over my words, his expression thoughtful. "How about this, Henry?" he proposed, breaking the silence. "We could appoint local elders as the unofficial representatives of their communities. You could provide them with funding and resources to rebuild the country, empowering them to serve their people."

His suggestion offered a glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainty, presenting a way to involve the local population in the rebuilding process while mitigating the risks of absolute power. It was a delicate balance to strike, but perhaps it was the first step towards restoring order and stability to this war-torn land.

"I suppose there's no more delaying the matter," I conceded with a resigned sigh. "You may show me my Ministers, and we'll get the ball rolling." 

As I spoke, a sense of uncertainty washed over me. It was time to face the challenges ahead head-on, to confront the responsibilities of leadership, and to begin the daunting task of rebuilding what had been broken.

As the General led me down the hall and to the left, we passed by the same room where I had previously shown them the middle finger in a fit of frustration. Walking by the bureaucrats administering the palace, I noticed a subtle shift in their demeanor. They snapped into a display of deep respect, acknowledging the presence of the man who could potentially steer their country back to stabilization—or lead it to ruin.

The large double doors swung open, revealing the five individuals who rose to greet their new Governor. "Good morning, Sir," they chorused in unison.

The marbled council table was adorned with an array of fruits, water carafes, and dockets. Taking their seats opposite one another, they awaited my arrival.

The General escorted me to my designated seat at the head of the table. "Please, take a seat, everyone," he commanded authoritatively. "Allow me to introduce your Governor, Charles Anwar Layeed, who arrived here just yesterday and is still acclimating to his new surroundings."

Let me introduce you to your cabinet. Starting from the right to left.

Ministry of Defence - Sara Kamaruddin (42) Female

Former Athenian Guard of the Presidential Unit (Retired)

Ministry of Finance - Darrien Mal (25) Male

Graduated with a Bachelors of Finance and got back from the west to serve his country.

Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security - Janick Kastelein (37) Male

Bred to be a soldier but defy expectations to pursue Agriculture, ensuring everyone is fed.

To the left.

Ministry of Internal Security- Jordan Nelson (56) Male

An avid Astronomer and a former police officer

Ministry of Regional Development- Shaav Sautereau (30) Male

Comes from a prominent family that handled the previous ruler's public works.

Having been introduced to each member of my Cabinet, hopefully each possessed a unique skill set that could be harnessed effectively for the prosperity of our Region.

"These individuals would serve as your trusted Ministers and council, advising you on matters pertaining to governance within their respective areas of expertise." The General's words carried a weight of assurance and responsibility. "While there may be room for expansion in the future, for now, this assembly should suffice to steer us toward our collective goals." 

"I thank you for your service to your country. I hope to be of support to all your goals and mine to bring this region back to a serviceable level." I addressed the Ministers. "To begin, The general has informed me that funds have been provided for the year at 55 million dollars, so that is about 4.5 million each month." Directing my attention to the Finance Minister, I inquired, "Minister of Finance, could you please provide an overview of the spending allocations for the current fiscal year?"

12pm

"Ah, yes, of course," the Finance Minister stammered, his fingers fumbling through the documents in search of the pertinent file. As he struggled to locate the necessary paperwork, a sense of urgency permeated the room.

Suddenly, the Minister of Agriculture interjected, slamming his hand on the table. "Darren, you're wasting the Governor's valuable time! Get a move on!" he urged, his tone brimming with impatience.

The abrupt slam startled me, a clear breach of decorum that seemed out of place among the esteemed members of the council. "Please, take your time, Finance Minister," I reassured Darren, offering a calming gesture to ease the tension in the room.

Turning my attention to the Minister of Agriculture, I addressed him firmly but diplomatically. "While I appreciate directness and assertiveness, it's essential to maintain professionalism and respect for our colleagues," I began, my tone measured yet authoritative. "Minister, I would like you to apologize to Darren for your outburst. As a member of this council, each of you holds a position of great responsibility and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect."

"I apologize for my behavior, Governor," said the minister, addressing Darren directly. "I regret any disrespect shown."

As a persistent cough echoed from the left side of the table, filling the room with its sickly sound, concern washed over us. "Minister, are you alright?" I inquired, genuinely worried. "Do you need anything? Water, perhaps? Jordan pour this man some water"

Jordan handed Shaav a glass of water, offering a gesture of courtesy. "Here you go, Shaav," he said respectfully. Shaav takes a sip before apologizing to me "My apologies for the undignified cough, Governor."

"Ah, here it is," the Finance Minister said, finally locating the document amidst the papers on his desk. "Allow me to outline my proposed allocation for the region."

The general, who had remained silent and observant throughout the interaction, finally spoke up. "Darren, ensure these funds are allocated appropriately," he warned sternly. "The future of this Region hinges on it."