Arga gazed at the board filled with scribbles, the white lines forming diagrams and notes about the governmental structure. Ningning's handwriting, neat and methodical, sprawled across it, laying out ideas about the institutions they would build. Yet his thoughts wandered, far beyond the words on the board, to something deeper, more complex — something he believed was also on Ningning's mind.
"That's enough about governance structure," Arga said suddenly. His voice was firm but calm. He stepped closer to the table piled with thick books. His eyes scanned the worn covers before he continued, "What's more fundamental now is the economic system. How will we organize the lives of our people? Will we adopt a capitalist system or a socialist one?"
Ningning's pen paused mid-stroke. She lifted her face, her gaze filled with deep contemplation. "I knew this question would arise," she said, her tone calm, though it was clear she had pondered this matter for a long time. "Earth has proven that both systems have their flaws, but we must choose the best path for Kashgar ."
Arga reached out, picking up one of the books from the pile. The book, a history of Earth's economy, had pages that were beginning to yellow. He flipped through it slowly, his fingers carefully touching each page. "Capitalism creates inequality," he said without lifting his gaze. "The rich grow richer, while the poor are marginalized. But socialism relies too heavily on the state, stifling individual initiative. We need a system that balances the two."
Ningning nodded slowly, her eyes seeming to affirm every word that left Arga's lips. "Socialism emphasizes equality, but without competition, innovation comes to a halt. Conversely, capitalism fosters competition but often creates unbridgeable social divides. We can't simply choose one or the other."
Arga's gaze returned to the chalkboard. He stared at the writings with a renewed intensity, as if trying to grasp the essence of their vision. "Our nation's principles must be rooted in equality," he said finally, his voice low but resolute. "Like the motto of one of Earth's nations: 'Unity in Diversity.' Everyone is equal, without discrimination. But we need more than just a slogan."
"Exactly," Ningning interjected, rising from her seat. Her steps were light as she approached the chalkboard. With steady movements, she wrote two large words: "Hybrid Economy."
"Basic needs must be guaranteed by the state," she continued. "Healthcare, education, and housing are fundamental rights for everyone. But for other sectors, like trade and technology, let the private sector take the lead."
For a moment, the room was filled with silence. Outside, the sky shifted hues, the reddish-orange glow of dusk slowly enveloping the horizon. Arga broke the silence, turning his gaze from the chalkboard. "What if we give the state control over critical resources?" he asked. "Natural resources, energy, water—these belong to the people. But for other sectors, like creative industries and services, let individuals innovate freely."
Ningning nodded, returning to the chalkboard. Carefully, she divided it into two columns. Under the title "State," she wrote: "Healthcare, education, housing, natural resources, energy, and water." Meanwhile, under the column labeled "Private," she added: "Technology, trade, creative industries, service sector."
"But we need strict regulations," Arga added, stepping closer to the table. "We can't let the private sector exploit the people. We must ensure there are no vast gaps between the rich and the poor."
"Equality in opportunity, not outcome," Ningning replied, adding "Market Regulation" under the private sector column. "Everyone should have the same chance, without discrimination based on social status or wealth."
They both fell silent again, gazing at the chalkboard now filled with fresh ideas. As dusk turned to night, a concept began to take shape, bringing a glimmer of hope for Kashgar 's future.
Arga offered a faint smile, though his face remained as composed as ever. "We can't force everyone to succeed, but we can give them the tools to achieve it," he said with conviction, as if the words had been rehearsed thousands of times in his mind.
Once all the points were neatly written on the board, Ningning looked at Arga. Her expression was serious, but a spark of determination gleamed in her eyes. "This will be the foundation of our economy. A strong state that allows room for innovation. Basic needs handled by the government, while other sectors are managed by private entities under strict oversight."
Arga nodded in agreement. "And the government system will remain an empire. But an empire that listens to its people, with a wise advisory council and just laws."
A faint smile crossed Ningning's face. "An empire like this could become a model unseen in any world. We're building something new."
A profound silence enveloped the room once more, accompanied only by the slow ticking of time. Outside, the sun had set, leaving traces of golden hues fading in Kashgar 's sky. The future, like a blank page, stretched endlessly before them, waiting to be written.
Suddenly, a soft knock at the door broke the silence. A servant entered cautiously, carrying several thick documents. "Your Majesty, I've brought what you requested," he said respectfully.
"Place them on the table," Arga replied curtly. His eyes were sharp, though his tone remained calm.
The servant bowed deeply, carefully placing the documents before leaving the room. Arga approached the table and began opening the files. His gaze swept over the data, each number and graph feeling like pieces of a puzzle he needed to solve. "Interesting," he murmured softly. " Kashgar has nearly 81,000 inhabitants. What about the other cities? Soltera, Aldaran, Riveria, Siferia... the number of people in this world is quite significant."
He paused for a moment, glancing toward the window. Slivers of morning sunlight began seeping through the curtains. Ningning, still busy compiling notes, gave a small nod, continuing her work.
"There's a meeting with the district leaders this morning," Arga said suddenly, breaking the silence between them. He rose from his chair, walking slowly toward the door. His movements exuded confidence, like a leader ready to face any challenge.
"Your Majesty," Ningning called softly. She approached, her eyes gazing at Arga with deep care. With quick, precise movements, she tidied Arga's slightly messy hair and picked up a soft cloth to gently clean his face. Her actions were simple yet full of meaning.