A Different Republic

[Ayzek]

Aselkam, Republic of Nyland
15 Vintyr 1592

Lalanda Marionett had not expected to actually win the election. Since the 50s, the Progressive Conservative Party had been in decline, nearly consisting losing seats to the Liberals, socialists, and even the reactionary Ultranationalists. Though there was a resurgence of Conservatism in Nyland when the New Conservative Movement exploded onto the scene in 1582, the PCP itself only continued to decline. Only now, in 1592, has it made a comeback—set to gain over 40 seats in one swoop. Though its influence was nowhere near the levels it had at the middle of the century, the PCP hoped to lead Nyland into the next one. If it managed to maintain this year's moment, doing so wasn't impossible.

"Thank you, Nyland!" Marionett said, a wide a smile on her face as the applause died down. "And thank you all that are here with me tonight to celebrate our victory this year!" The crowd erupted in applause and cheers again, as the PCP celebrated their first election victory in almost four decades.

"It was a truly stunning victory," the President-elect continued when the crowd calmed, "and I hope its a sign of many more to come. It was a long and trying road to stand here with you all tonight and I greatly appreciate the hard work put in by our next vice president Liam Lofgren, our staffers and volunteers, and everyone else in the Party that supported us along the way. Thank you. I also want to thank my husband and our children for their love and support.And I am especially thankful to each and every one of you, every Nylander, for the confidence that you have invested in me. I am proud, honored, and privileged to have the opportunity to serve as your next president. Thank you! Thank you!" Marionett waved at the crowd and then into the cameras, beaming as the crowd exploded once more.

It took several moments for it to settle and allow Marionett to continue. "Thank you to my rivals in the Central Democratic Alliance and the Nyland Liberalists for the great race. Astrad Bengtsson, Lenna Schenkenberg: it was an honor. I look forward to working with you and all our friends and colleagues in Nykoping this coming Alvan. I am grateful to you and the Nylander people for once again being able to peacefully resolve our differences and keeping our democratic tradition strong. It is that democracy and the right of the people to be heard and to elect their leaders that makes Nyland strong.

"As leaders and as Nylanders, we must never forget that. We must ensure that we do not fall victim to divisive partisanship and instead continue to work across party lines to ensure a stronger, greater, and united Nyland. Only with its people working together for the common good can Nyland remain the leading world power.

"Only together can we make sure that our education system remains globally competitive and that our youth's future remains bright and full of opportunity.

"Only together can we resolve the challenges facing social security and ensure a safe retirement for future generations.

"Only together can we fairly and responsibly reduce the tax burden on all Nylanders.

"Only together can we ensure that the Nylander economy market remains strong and globally competitive.

"Together, we will address these challenges and more. We will ensure a safe and secure Nyland, protected from threats both domestic and abroad. Together with our allies and partners we will ensure a safe and democratic Skathia and promote a free world safe for all peoples and trade from the scourges of fascism and totalitarianism. Together, we..."

Lalanda's speech continued for several more minutes.