Rise to the Top [Calliope/Alastair]

"Satisfaction is not exactly what came to mind when I accepted the position, but I have no plan to change it. I cannot say the same for the rest of the Vandenreich."

Alastair had risen from his seat behind the desk as soon as the door had been opened, his own dress uniform as well-kept as ever though now adorned with the Grandmaster's pins instead of those of an Administrator. He was grateful that he had been afforded the opportunity to meet Calliope before all this had taken place, such a drastic change in circumstances doubtlessly affected how one might act in these situations as the power dynamic shifted. Watching her approach with a measured intent, he offered that brief rebuttal before his hand extended outwards in the direction of a waiting chair.

"I believe the sleepless nights to be a testament to the demands of the position. We have overcome many calamities and yet there is only more work that needs to be done, which is why I am glad that our calendars have finally permitted a proper sitdown." Though he spoke of restlessness, there was little indication upon his features. Alastair naturally carried himself with an air of perseverance, possessing a fiery drive despite the cold exterior, and it would take more than a little weariness to slow him down. "So, did you have an agenda?"

Alastair enjoyed that quiet chuckle, for it was what he had expected. Calliope had not struck him as a person who came to such meetings without a plan and he certainly enjoyed being proven right in this instance. As the conversation shifted to one matter over which he had asked for oversight, he was gladdened that the idea of moving the city was not entirely laughable. There would be challenges, certainly, but nothing that could not be overcome with a little hard work.

"Those that are seriously inconvenienced by this action will be the first afforded compensation. I trust that we will do our utmost to limit this disruption but, as you say, there are going to be cases that are simply unsalvageable. This relocation effort is a considerable undertaking and one that will drain the Vandenreich's resources, but we cannot afford to be frivolous with people's safety and security."

He thumbed a few buttons on his computer and the desk between them burst into life, displaying a map of the world with several locations circled and marked. This was a topic that he had already been deliberating on, so a visual aid might serve him best in covering the unique challenges each potential destination might face.

"The western coast of North America is certainly a frontrunner among prospective candidates, not only would it limit the distance we are moving but it is also a country in which we have already spread our roots deeply. There are several locations along the coast that we could opt for, and the Vandenreich has a strong relationship with the local government." Several of the markers lit up running the length of the western coast, though the map soon continued to travel eastward. "I believe the eastern coast would offer us little benefit over its western counterpart, but there is the possibility of looking further afield."

The display landed on Africa, with several hazardous warnings clearly displayed but also several locations highlighted along the western and northern coastline.

"Africa is a continent currently in disarray, in dire need of leadership and stability. Whilst it would be foolhardy to travel into the depths of the land, where our current outposts lie, it could be beneficial to provide a secure bastion to the region that needs it most. We have allies in Europe who would also be grateful for our proximity, and refugees are already making the perilous journey from the former Vastime commune to our sanctuaries both here in the city and across America."