A Battle Unseen

[Doc]

Intelligence Summary Meeting of IBSI Section Heads, IBSI HQ, Suldanor, 2:30pm

Director Henry Martel tapped his stack of papers on the desk, "And that concludes our Dovani brief, and if there are no further questions, let's move on to Anantonese Affairs. We read in the papers that Lodamun is working again on their large platform sea based X-Band long distance radars. Mike, what do you have on that?"

IBSI tech analyst Mike Hengstrom said, "It's the program they apparently started decades ago: as a matter of fact, just before they joined the Empire they had discussed building these systems, though as soon as they joined the Empire, much of their technological development was put on hold. So I imagine they are just picking back up where they left off now that they have left. Not sure why they abruptly halted much of that development, but now that they are remilitarizing and have just left the Empire, it seems to be a renewed priority suddenly."

Martel asked: "How do we see this fitting in with Lodamun's over all posture of the last couple years?"

Hengstrom said: "Their intentions are fairly mixed: They intend to reassert themselves in the Mad Dog Ocean and in western Seleya. If their previous plans are any indication, they may ask to position one of these radars in the Anantonese Ocean. But they have been pretty circumspect regarding their posture toward the Empire now that they have left it. They haven't even publicly acknowledged the split in their paper yet. So it is a somewhat odd situation: We don't have a lot of information from Kensington yet regarding their new stance, but we can assume that now that they are independent, Kalistan remains not their chief priority or concern."

"Just as well," said Martel. "Her Imperial Majesty is planning a reorganization of our fleets in the Northern Anantonese now that the Fifth Fleet has been cancelled. We are sending the handful of ships that we completed to the 3rd Fleet, but they are going to be patrolling the Lorna Sea while the 4th Fleet takes up position in the Anantonese Ocean over to the Karzon Straits. As Lodamun is intent on dramatic increases on defensive spending, we will be happy to let them take the defense of the entire Mad Dog, and Kalistan will focus on returning to our traditional defensive stance."

Hengstrom nodded and said, "Our guys also think there is an arms race developing in the region, and would advise that Her Imperial Majesty pay attention to that so she isn't left behind."

Martel responded, "I actually think it is her intention to do just that."

Hengstrom asked, "That's fine. As long as we continue advising her, we need to make sure that Kalistan's position remains pre-eminent. Any increase in power should be met with a corresponding increase on our side."

Martel responded, "Hmmm, I don't know though. I think both she and Princess Margaret are convinced that Kalistan has been carrying the burden for defense of this hemisphere long enough without much help from anyone else, and the Empire has suffered as a result. If Lodamun and Egelion are happy sinking entire chunks of their economy into military spending, that's perfectly fine: It frees up money for Her Imperial Majesty to focus on improving Kalistan and Gaduridos. Kalistan is more than 100 years into this particular phase of the Imperial Project: Things changed when The Black Empress took over. I think Her Imperial Majesty wants to completely leave the legacy of Artania behind and return to a more traditional posture for Kalistan, while Lodamun and Egelion have both decided to start spending like the enemies are at the gates. So, more power to them. The Empress would rather take that kind of money and put it into health care and reforestation, and school and industrial investment. Which is also probably why she was so willing to let Lodamun go. As you know, Kalistan has no intention whatsoever in supporting any naval conflict on the other side of the world, especially over some abstract nonsense like free trade or international navigation."

"And yet our own missile defense program continues apace," interjected Cathy Martinez, of the Defense Projects Section.

"I'll tell you, I think Her Imperial Majesty is 50-50 on that as well. If we can't do it with our current budget, which, it looks like we won't be able to, I think Her Imperial Majesty would sooner scuttle that program too. We will keep working on the new Frigates in Hutori, but may stick to conventional weapons defense, because the technological necessity and budget for defense against a threat that will likely never realistically materialize for Kalistan is simply too high. She has said it is far easier to simply not play that game anymore and just focus on the things we can actually do something about."

There was silence in the room, and then Martinez responded, "That sounds like Margaret and her 'constructivism' talking."

Martel responded coldly, "Why do you think Her Imperial Majesty keeps Princess Margaret at IBSI? She wants us to be her spies, but she has a whole batch of other spies, who spy on us."

Nobody said anything.

"I really think she is paranoid," said Director Martel, almost under his breath. "But, lets move on to Southern Seleya... John, if you would please..."

[Elena1012]

A Masquerade of the Guilty
February 11th, 5642
-------------------------------
Choezom sat in his office, his foot impatiently moving whilst awaiting a phone call. Operation Guilty Masquerade was being enacted, but who knew when it would be done. His office was silent. The only noise in it was the ticking of the clock, and his foot. This was his big break as Director of the Committee of State Security. Securing not only a Yeudi Gem, but Maria Kadiyot, the monster responsible for the Bargas Chenpo would not just put his name in the history books, it would make him an icon in the CSS for generations to come. The phone would ring, and he would quickly answer it. The report came in. It was a success. The ship was scuttled, and the state had plausible deniability. It could be chalked up to unexpected pirates or a freak weather accident. Anything the world and especially the public would believe. The crew was unharmed fortunately. The Seizure Team was under strict orders not to kill any individuals. The crew was sedated and are being transported to Rebarnyingpa. They will have to be dealt with sooner rather than later.  Choezom thought about ways to resolve the issue of the crew. They obviously couldn't, and wouldn't be killed. But they'd have to be disposed of somehow. They couldn't be kept in Rebarnyingpa forever.

However, his thoughts went blank as the report confirmed the real prize. Maria Kadiyot. The architect of the Bargas Chenpo. She was captured and was instead being sent not to Rebarnyingpa like the crew, but to a separate facility instead. This meant two things. Kadiyot was effectively in Xsampan possession. Indefinitely. As long as the world didn't know, no one would know she was in Xsampan custody. The Gaduri government wouldn't say anything about a missing boat that never arrived. They take in too many ships a day to worry about that. But it also meant that the gem was in Xsampan possession. Meleh's Gem. The Yeudis had such a strong obsession with it. Choezom didn't understand why, but if they adored the gem, then it was a good deterrent to keep.

Choezom was ecstatic. His future would be of glory. And he served his country in helping capture the monster that is Maria Kadiyot. But he couldn't get ahead of himself. The transport still had to arrive. It would take a few days, but good things come to those who are patient. As he put the phone down, he couldn't stop himself from smiling. It was a great day. For him and for Xsampa. He began to dial another number on the phone and made preparations for the arrival of Kadiyot. She may be a prisoner now, but Xsampa doesn't need to stoop to the levels of tyrants. She would have an acceptable quality of live. Not luxury. But not horrid conditions either. She couldn't be properly put on trial by a Xsampan court. Not without the world knowing. And too many questions would be asked about how she came into Xsampan custody. But, for now, the focus was on getting her to Xsampa now. 

As for the gem. Choezom thought to himself more. What about the gem? It'll be immensely valuable. Materially and symbolically. It was up to the state to decide what to do with it. Not him. But for now, it would have to be seized from Kadiyot and kept in secure custody. It would be a powerful bargaining chip. If knowledge were to circulate that Xsampa was in possession of it. If no one knew Xsampa has it, then no one has any idea what happened to it. And perhaps that was for the best. But Choezom was content. He couldn't say the Operation was a success yet. So far, it was. But it wasn't over until Kadiyot step foot on Xsampan soil. He thought to himself. The arc of justice is long, but it always strikes. Kadiyot wouldn't get freedom in neutral Gaduridos. She would get justice for her crimes in Xsampa. Whether by trial or imprisonment.

[Doc]

Cliff Offices, South Kaliburg, March 5642, 1:30pm

"Welcome Meg, please close the door," said Empress Mary

"Don't you think the Chancellor should be here for this?" asked Princess Margaret, who just arrived.

"Not this time, Meg. Just you and me." answered the Empress.

Margaret knew what this had come to mean. It was school time. Mary was about to pick her brain and wanted unofficial advice before she talked with the politicians. "Don't you think maybe you should take some night classes or something?" asked Margaret, who was now nearly finished with her Theory PhD. "I'm not always going to be around to be your tutor, you know."

Mary nodded, "Yes that's why I'm trying to get everything out of your mind while I can."

"Mary," Margaret said with a sigh, and then pulled up a chair. "Alright... What can I tell you today?"

"First, I need the actual story of your time in Baltusia..."

Margaret narrowed her eyes, "You got the briefing from IBSI, right?"

Mary nodded. "Yes, but I don't believe them. People in this country tell me what they think I want to hear. But I need the truth."

Margaret rolled her eyes. "What good is it to have a spy agency you don't trust?"

"Meg, I don't trust any of these people. They all treat me like I'm a kid, like I'm some dumb idiot. I didn't get to go to school like you, but I know things. I just want someone to give me good advice and these people are all running some political agenda. They're all acting like I'm someone they have to put up with."

"Do you trust any of them, Mary?"

"I trust you, Meg. So please. Tell me what I need to know."

"Baltusia was receptive to me," said Mary. "I talked with several groups in Athosia and it seems like there might be some support for a full monarchy in Baltusia, but not necessarily under our flag. I wouldn't push that. They will be meeting with Egelion soon, if they haven't already. I mentioned our... difficulties... with Egelion during the meeting. They listened politely. Problem is, of course, they don't trust you. They can look at a place like Gaduridos and see what the family and what the empire has done there, but they can't see that for themselves.

"But all they see is strings. I tried to avoid even mentioning Athosia, but that's what their Minister really wanted to talk about. I gave the Government assurances on the Duchy, but I don't know if it satisfied them or not. That said, I really wanted to stress to them that we are trying to find common ground with them wherever we can, to stress our commonalities, to play up our identities as Northern Seleyans rather than play up the things that have kept us separate. Time will tell. I'm optimistic, but only cautiously so, because apparently, Egelion gets whatever it wants whenever it wants and doesn't even have to try, and the only thing it is doing now is challenging us. I don't know how susceptible Baltusia will be to that."

"See," said Mary. "Literally none of that was in the IBSI briefing."

"Well, its just my personal take. The briefing probably had a bunch of other intel in it that even I didn't see. I just reported on my trip there."

"No, they are advising me that I step up the challenge to Egelion in the Anantonese Ocean."

"Look Mary, that is what you shouldn't do."

"But they have some good points," said Mary. "How can they have navies all over the place all of a sudden? They have a base now in Mordusia, did you see that? We can't just let them get away with that."

"Yeah, but I mean, think about it Mary," said Margaret. "We know how big their navy is: Hell, we can turn on a tv here and see how big it is. They correctly report the size of their 'armadas' in their news paper, and they aren't any bigger than one of our squadrons. They just bought a handful of ships from Beiteynu, including two aircraft carriers. So what? And they call this an armada? Egelion isn't a threat to us."

"Two aircraft carriers is a threat," said Mary.

"No, it is not a threat," said Margaret. "In terms of sheer firepower its not. With the changes to our deployment that you yourself approved, you put anything Egelion could ever engage against within range of our coasts, within range of our interceptors and SAMs. That means that in a war, it wouldn't just be Kalistani navy against the whole Egelian military. We have so many coastal batteries which can send cascades of missiles. We have our airforce here, on the mainland. We have surface to surface missiles here. In a war, the Ananto Strait becomes a gauntlet and a meat grinder. Because this family is obsessed with protection of our coasts. Within 450 nautical miles of any land we possess, we are the ones with superiority, not them.

"So let them have their little aircraft carriers, and let them claim they are the ones who need to patrol the seas because apparently 'we can't'. That's fine... Because we don't have to. All we have to do is defend our part of it, and we have four massive navies to do that with: they have to defend the rest of it, they're on the hook to defend the rest of it, and if they fail to do so, they look terrible. And they know that so they will run their economy into the ground to do it. Besides: Aircraft carriers are incredibly expensive to maintain. And we don't have that expense. At all."

Mary sat silent as she learned. Margaret almost forgot that she was teaching.

"What about this Luthori thing?"

"What about it?" asked Margaret.

"Egelion says they want to let Luthori base in Southern Egelion."

"So what? Egelion, despite their best efforts to get you to think so, is not our enemy. And neither is Luthori.
Not if you don't want them to be. They aren't in control of your perceptions. You are. And so it really doesn't matter what they do: Since you act based on your perceptions, they have no power over your actions either. They aren't in control of anything at all."

"Why does it feel like they are trying to be our enemy? Why are they trying to provoke us?"

"Because Big Sister, you are paranoid, and it is about time someone told you. You have more friends than you know. And besides, you remember from our constructivism talk: It's not relative power, but absolute power. You are only as weak as you think you are, and they are only as strong as your perception causes you to act like they are. Whatever Egelion writes in their paper, Kalistan has the most powerful navy on this planet. And its not even close. You have more than enough to keep our nation safe. Egelion and Luthori together don't even come close, because you and twenty generations of our ancestors are obsessed. Focus on where you can actually do something, and let the rest of the world handle itself.

"Baltusia is one place to start. Do what you can to reassure them, to let them know that you want to be their friends. Use how you treat Valruzia as an example: Offer to help and stand with them on their terms, rather than worrying about Athosia, or Egelion going in there. Baltusia will do what Baltusia wants to do. Your choices with Lodamun I think were correct. Now they come back as equals and as friends rather than as subjects who resent you. We can do something with that. It's about identity and choosing to do something different than you would otherwise do, right?"

Mary nodded. She thought about Margaret's words for a long time.

"Indeed," said Mary, finally. "Director Martel would never say anything like this to me. He wants me to increase monitoring and consider destabilization strategies in Egelion."

"That's a shame, Mary," said Margaret. "You really need someone in charge of that Bureau who will give you good advice."

"I'm glad you said that," said Mary as she stared at her sister. Margaret looked at her. Suddenly she caught her sister's wavelength.

"No no no, Mary. Don't even think about it."

"Margaret, I am sorry. It is already done. Martel is already out, I've already told Koenig."

"Mary, I defend my dissertation in June. I really need..."

"I'll wait, Meg, but I need you, and can't make you the Chancellor."

Margaret closed her eyes. This was typical of Mary--This wasn't a class; it was an interview. She loved her sister, but she should have seen this coming years ago... She shouldn't have said anything about wanting to continue serving.

"You should have been the Empress," said Mary, as if she heard her sister's thinking.

[XanderOne]

For the future...

Borromesi Castle (one of the Imperial residence of the Istalian Crown), municipality of Rocca Bassa, Province of Saxera (Island of Alaria).
Sunday afternoon of April 28, 3:45 p.m.


On the television screen the images of the match Romula–Milona, classic of the classics of the Istalian football major league championship, first half just finished.
When the referee's whistle blew, the applause from the crowd for their favorites who were returning to the locker rooms was loud and festive while the yellow-red coat of arms of Romula stood out on the screen that marked 2-0 for the home team.

The Emperor, getting up with a satisfied shake, exclaimed smiling:
«Ah! Did you see the second goal? A brush stroke! That's football Tommi! That's the spirit of Romula... like in the days of Montanari!»

His son Tommaso stood up giggling and running his hands through his hair replied:
«Mamma mia, what a move... three passes and the ball was already in the net. Milona didn't even understand what passed by him. If we continue like this today we'll score four.»

The Emperor moved to the bar cabinet to open the door of the small refrigerator:
«We need a nice cold beer to celebrate the first half properly. "Daje Romula!"» esclaimed in the end using the typical slang of Romula.

Then he took out two bottles from the lowest compartment of the bar cabinet and then filled two glasses:
«This, Tommi, arrived this week: it's the blonde one produced by those friars in Valdovena, the one you like so much.»

Having taken the glass, Tommaso sat back on the sofa while his father remained at the window watching Melissa, his son's wife, stroll with the Empress in the terrace garden overlooking the sharp bend of the river Adise, one hand on her hip, the other caressing her belly that was starting to show.

The Emperor, after a long thirst-quenching sip, said to his son while continuing to look out the window:
«Your mother has already had a gift prepared for Melissa: a diamond set. But not just any thing, eh: there's an emerald, Tommaso, as big as an egg, as the main piece. I tell you… something shamefully embarrassing considering how much it cost.»

Tommaso just smiled, answering absentmindedly, like all the excitement for the match were vanished:
«Melissa will be happy…»

The Emperor looked at him and moved to sit next to him with an inquiring look:
«You've had that face since you arrived, thank goodness we are winning the match, otherwise you wouldn't have been good company today… what is it?»

The son seemed hesitant, but his expression had become serious again:
«yes thank goodness for the match, because today…»

«The GFCAB, isn't it?" his father asked with a sharp look.

Tommaso took another sip, remaining thoughtful:
«The crisis on Yishelem, the initial panic, the losses on the stock exchange... but what really worries me... yes, it is the GFCAB, but it is certainly not the stability of the company that worries me: it is the name of our family, the symbolic weight. All that round of offshore companies, the speculation in the markets of northwest Majatra... if everything comes out clearly, we will end up at the center of the storm. And don't tell me it can't happen!»

The Emperor nodded understandingly, starting to speak calmly to reassure him:
«I see it, I see it... you're not in the mood... but relax! First of all, we are still in full control. The network we have built with the GFCAB is too deep, too branched out to be compromised by two weeks of chaos and uncontrolled rumors.»

«Yes, but there is a risk of exposure! And if someone in Beiteynu or Pontesi were to start investigating and… talking…»

The Emperor promptly raised a hand as if to block him and in a calm but firm tone replied:
«I've already thought about that too: the intelligence started working right away. They're… "reviewing" the position of certain possible "chatterboxes" in Beiteynu and Pontesi. Someone had started asking too many questions in fact. Well… now they don't talk so willingly anymore.»

Tommaso didn't seem too reassured, however, and shaking his head he sighed:
«let's hope that the intervention of the Intelligence doesn't emerge then!»

The father, empathetically, but without abandoning pragmatism, resumed speaking:
«Tommi, let's remember what they did to us! Beiteynu has gobbled up our economy, steered our diplomatic choices, infiltrated our intelligence, all this smiling as a good old friend. Maybe at the beginning it was the case, but… it has never been officially proven… but do you really think that all that stuff is just fantasy? Istalia has been marginalized, sunk in a political and economic crisis that lasted too long and resulted eventually in the Socialist Republic!»

Tommaso, looking at the bottom of his beer, almost muttered to himself:
«Many think so, but many others talk about conspiracy theories, nationalist paranoia… I didn't imagine that you too…»

«You are not aware of ALL the things that happened, and you can't know what happened during the Peninsula War, I did! I fought during that war. But… then… what? These are such widespread opinions now that they have taken root. For the people Beiteynu is the culprit, 3FP too. And Pontesi… is little more than a pawn. No one will cry if some of those economies end up in ruins while our companies grow.»

«And the Crown?»

The Emperor settled more comfortably and calmly on the sofa and continued relaxed:
«The Crown is safe, more than ever! Furthermore the country is much more interested in what happens in the Carvelli trial. Since he was extradited from Vanuku there has been a media obsession. All eyes are there, not on the GFCAB.»

Tommaso, raised an eyebrow:
«I didn't think it could make so much noise after all these years.»

The father, with a half smile, continued:
«For years we have looked ahead... in fact it could have seemed like a closed and forgotten chapter from a distant past, given how much the country has changed, but when there has been so much blood, the noise never ends! But, being pragmatic, this is also needed: a perfect diversion at this time. In the meantime, we continue to consolidate ourselves. The crisis will pass, like all the others, the markets will adapt and our presence in the north-west quadrant will be even stronger.»

He paused briefly, then before draining the remaining beer in the glass, he added as if looking far away, beyond the windows and the garden:
«God forgive us, but we could say that it is a poetic divine justice!»

At that moment Melissa was glimpsed again from the window and the Emperor, pointing at her with his chin, said in a paternal tone:
«Look at your wife... that is the future, a future worth taking every risk for!»

The son observed his wife in silence for a moment, then took a long sip, finishing the beer in his glass:
«Yes... but I worry about the future we want to leave, hoping that it will be cleaner than the one we are leaving behind.»

The Emperor, without looking at him, always pragmatic, in a calm tone replied:
«What is certain is that we will leave a future that will be more ours! That is what matters!»

[Louis]

With Power Comes Responsibility
El Capitolio | 3:45 PM | Distrito Real, Altea, Amateria

---

The building was loud and hectic. several secretaries and office workers ran from office to office, dropping important documents, making important phone calls, and scrambling to control the political damage. On the first floor, the large wooden door open, and all five royal councilors walk in--the room goes silent. The councilors walk up the staircase to the second floor. The sound of the cold, hard marble floor echoes through the building. The doors to the councilor's hall open and close with a loud thud--signaling the beginning of a historic moment. 

The councilors enter the large hall. It is warm, and unorganized thanks to the turmoil from the past few days. At the center of the round desk and sits all of the councilors, is the golden throne of the king. His Majesty himself sits on the chair, hands crossed, and a look of confusion, anger and disappointment. The councilors sit and wait for the king to speak.

Romulo: "My dear councilors..... as you may know with recent developments, my reign is at risk. Such is the will of the people no? Alas we stand at the faults of our system: the desperate attempts to gain power. I understand that you all in front of you a recommendation to do just that.

Please, discuss.

Formoselle: As speaker of this council, I do believe that some of us have concerns... with the ideology itself. I, for one, believe that we should have more legislative power--for efficiency of course. I think if we delegate powers we--

Do you not think this council is efficient? High Councilor?

Well--I do think--um..

Enough said. Does anybody else in this council believe it is inefficient?

Silence....

Ibarra: Majestad, as your humble servant that is responsible for the Royal Treasury and the national economy, I do believe that this council is as efficient as can be. I do not think sending power to the court will improve the standing of the nation. I for one reject these ideological battles and believe the status quo is what works best for this nation.

More silence... waiting for the next councilor to speak.

Montalivet: Majestad, the military and our industrial sectors have seen massive success from this government the way it currently is. Our productivity in the Duchy of Yadraz is successful. We see no interest in changing.

Mondragon: Majestad, I am your humble servant. As the representative from Caille, I am deeply disappointed by the actions of the PPC. I understand these grievances go far beyond our times--it is historical. It is best I retire early and hand in my resignation, Majestad.

No, Veronica. I need you here for your final two years. Your service and loyalty is recognized.

The councilors and king look to the final councilor.

Cascabel: Majestad, while I appreciate the efforts done by this council, I do agree with Formoselle that this council can be more-

Enough. Through the power vested in me by Our Lord and by the People of the Kingdom, High Councilor Formoselle, Royal Councilor Cascabel, as your king, I declare you relieved of your duties. Per the law of succession established by King Amadeo, your eldest heir is eligible for your position on this council.

Thank you to those who have shown your loyalty. Leave this chamber at once, Formoselle and Cascabel. 

They walk out of the chamber.....

For you here, your presence is requested at the Royal Court. I take my leave.

[Elena1012]

Atop A Lonely Pedestal
------------------------
Chenpozhing, Public Square 
------------------------
September 8th, 5642
------------------------
Choenyi Auberjonois took a break. She had been sitting and preaching for hours at this. Hardly anyone was interested in what she was offering. She got a few notices, but they chose to respectfully leave. Tch. She didn't like it one bit. But the rest of her organization depended on her. Granted, it was small. But it was better than nothing. The Socialist Unity League. She and her friends organized it earlier in the year after graduating university. They all shared a dream of changing Xsampa. Choenyi spent her weekends trying to get people to join the SUL. But she could hardly convince anyone. It wasn't because of apathy, but no one just seemed interested in what it offered. The SUL wanted to redefine Xsampan Socialism. Not by revising it, but by challenging imperialism everywhere, and spreading the revolution abroad. It was hard enough to be satisfied with the way things were going with the world as it was. 

As she sat down, she shivered a bit. The cold air from the Hanzen Shield Mountain Range swept down on Chenpozhing. She kept thinking to herself as she put an extra coat on. Surely, someone would have to listen? Surely someone would support the ideals of Kaminski? As she put the extra coat on, she took a drink of coffee and went back to trying to get attention. 

Minutes turned into hours and still nothing. A few people feigned interest, she was sure of that, and they left with respect. But not interest. She grew a bit upset at this. It wasn't supposed to be this hard. Xsampans are always politically engaged! Unless it meant the problem was with what the SUL offered? No! It couldn't be that. Choenyi knew that. It couldn't be that her ideals were wrong. It had to be something else. But then what was it? Her group, the rest of the SUL, her friends, her comrades, they were relying on her to get more interest in the SUL. 

As she kept thinking to herself, someone finally stepped up and showed genuine interest. A young man by the name of Zopa. She was ecstatic and happily began explaining what SUL was, when they held meetings and their goals. 

"I assure you comrade, this is very much worth your time!" She wasted no time expressing her enthusiasm, as she continued on. "The Socialist Unity League wants something more for not just Xsampa, but the revolution! The world revolution! Why should we sit here and enjoy prosperity when there is suffering all across the world? Isn't it our duty as socialists to bring the revolution abroad? Shatter the Empires even. Create Metz's dream of a free world!" She felt like a child with how ecstatic she was. After a full day of failing to convince people, even just one person being interested sent her above the moon. And Zopa was genuinely interested. Not just politely nodding and leaving, but genuinely interested. And as luck would have it, he was even apart of the Local Committee of Chenpozhing! He could help get the SUL registered and turn it into a proper organization instead of whatever club it was now. Maybe she misjudged her comrades too much. Maybe there was hope for the global revolution. But it would require more work. She couldn't change anything as an individual. The SUL was too small to change anything. But with Zopa, maybe, just maybe, the SUL can change things for Chenpozhing, and who knows? Maybe the SUL could one day get to PAX and challenge the status quo. One day.

As Zopa left the Public Square, Choenyi was content. Even one more person, especially such an influential person locally, could be helpful. It was getting late and she figured to call it a day. She left for home and as she walked home, she couldn't wipe the smile off her face. She had hope for the SUL, and optimism that things will change for the better. She was optimistic for the future of the SUL. Her comrades were sure to be pleased with her efforts. The SUL could become a genuine movement. A movement that can change Xsampa. A movement that can become something big across the nation. A movement that can truly, shatter the empires.

[Svetlana]

Leaving for a new world

---

Ernesta Frolova International Airport

---

"Do you really need to go to Egelion just to study architecture? I think Nadiya has plenty of good schools for that-" Maria said while tried dissuading Daria before she promptly interrupted her. "Auntie, come on! I really want to study in Egelion." Daria huffed while crossing her arms over her chest, "Okay okay I get it, miss little over 3 apples tall is already growing an attitude, I will make sure to tell your mother about that just so I can hear her tear you a new one." Maria joked teasingly before pinching Daria's cheek as if she's still a newborn baby, "By the way where is mom? She said she would come see me before I go." Daria asked while looking around to catch any signs of her mom, "Oh you know her, always busy becoming a big shot in the NGA while you're cool and pretty aunt over here is saying goodbye." Maria replied playfully while puffing out her chest to try and appear more beautiful. "Cool? Pretty? I think someone in here is inflating their ego way too much, so much for the liberator of Rodashyam huh." Daria chuckled to herself, "You know what? I'm gonna make sure you aren't a duchess anymore once you land in Altea, I'm the boss around here, Maria the First Queen of Nadiya and whatever comes after that. I really need to always carry a list with me because those titles are ridiculous, why didn't abolish them and only kept one." Maria sighed before looking at Daria again, who was desperately trying not to laugh, "Dont you DARE laugh, young lady, or I will make you regret it." She said in a somewhat threatening tone. "Alright queen of all queens or something along those lines, I won't ever doubt of your holy authority."

"Now that's what I call a really good girl, come over here and give me a hug." Maria smiled and opened her arms before Daria wrapped her arms around her, "I'm gonna miss you, you know that right?" Daria looked up at Maria, "I will see about that myself, you little pretty demon." She chuckled before kissing her cheek, "By the way, once you go in what's its name again..." Maria rubbed her chin trying to remember its name, "It's La Academia Real de Altiflor San Mares, auntie." Daria chuckled softly, "I didn't know my niece would be such a show off! Anyways, once you there, don't forget that the Frolovas also live in Altea and they're our friend so ask them for some guidance in whatever language they speak in the land chilis and paella." 

"Auntie that's kind of racist, you know." Daria said, "I can't be racist to a bunch of people who shit more than the average house cat." Maria joked teasingly, then she suddenly hugged Daria tightly as a photographer she hired took a picture of them, "Ha! Caught your ass, I'm gonna make sure everyone in the family sees how much you love me." She said before letting go of Daria as the operator announced that her flight will be taking off soon, but before she left, Maria turned around and blew a kiss and winked to Daria mockingly while waving the picture. "I swear to god, and they said royals were supposed to act all serious and humble." Daria sighed before turning around and checking in her luggage as she prepares herself to start a new chapter of her life in Egelion.


The picture that was taken of the photographer that was then transformed into a painting commissioned by Maria just spite Daria.

[Louis]

When Flowers Bloom
La Academia Real de Altiflor San Mares, Distrito Real, Altea | 10:09 AM

---

"Estudiantes, I am pleased to announce we have a new student with us. I want you to show her respect and to be welcoming to her."

"Buenos dias" she says in a chopped Nadiyan accent. Her Egelian is good, but not perfect. "My name is Daria Alexanderova Anastasia Rothringren of Nadiya and old Trigunia, I am pleased to be here. Thank you."

Many students give her a welcoming smile, other students whisper to each other.... "Did she say Rothringren", they say to each other. The room full of 16 year old's watch as she prepares to go to her seat.

"Miss Daria, you can sit here, next to..... umm.. oh yes! Sit here between Nora and Artemio."

The kids in the class look over as Daria takes her seat, next to class president Nora, and the most popular kid in class, Artemio.

He looks at her with gentle eyes and observes her features carefully. Her hair is dark and amber colored. Her eyes, gray with a hue of blue, her skin pale like Nadyian winter. So fair, so cold. Like a morning of pale spring still clinging to winter's chill. The big question also ponders his mind: "Did she say Rothringren?

"Um, hello." he says with a shy smile.

"Hello", she responds. She sits on her chair with such elegance and looks at the board with the day's work.

He reaches his hand out for a quick greeting. "My name is Artemio, I'm pleased to me--"

"I know exactly who you are", she interrupts and fails to notice his hand. While still looking at the board, she notices the boy, who doesn't know how to react since he was iterrupted. 

She turns her head slowly. Her eyes begin to observe the young boy up and down. She stares deep into his cinnamon colored eyes, noticing the boy beginning to blush only added on by the silence between them. She reaches down for his hand, warm and soft, hers cold but inviting. She gives the boy a smile that could melt all the snow in Nadiya.

 "I am pleased to meet you as well.... Your Highness."

[Svetlana]

The contingency

---

Location: Solmogrod village, SVZ, Lesnov.
Time: 23:50
Witnesses: to be determined
Consequences: unknown
Causes: unknown
Status of operation Cobalt: uncompromised.

---

"And with that we conclude our show! In the next episode YOU will get to decide on who wins a stay at a luxurious hotel in Zoetergraaf. Ladies and gentlemen, goodnight and may your dreams be filled with wonders." The presentator said before bowing down and stepping off the stage. "Mommy! Mommy! Can I please watch the night program announcement with you? I swear I will be a very good boy, on the name of the matriarch!" Her little son Vladimir begged desperately, he knew that usually his mom, Tatyana, wouldn't let him stay past midnight, but since today is his 7th birthday, how could she say no to her little angel?

"Okay okay, you can watch it with me, but after it ends you go sleep immediately. Okay, baby?" She chuckled before kissing his cheek softly as she then found herself staring at the screen as scenes of spring and greenery filled the screen. Tatyana has been living in the Solmogrod Viral Zone for since she was born, she remembers when the Bloody Tears mega outbreak happened in 5625 and how her village were put back under the formally abolished SVZ, most of her childhood was spent within the walls of her Novikovshkas with her mom while medical teams conducted tests on the daily and even installed military checkpoints at every corner. It was a stark contrast to freedom the other parts of the isles experienced after the fall of Trigunia, she read about the bustling nightlife of Zarvosopol or the famous artistic circles of Zoetergraaf, she wished she part of those libertine girls who danced while wearing nothing but a string and made both Augustans and Matriarchal nuns faint, yet here she is with her little boy sitting on their sofas, in the same village she grew up in, resting and enjoying a wonderful night together.

"Look mommy it's going to start!" Vlad tugged at her arm excitedly as the screen glowed with a soft orange light while the anthem of the NEC played in the background

Up next: End of broadcasting 00:00
the screen now shows a video of the NEC flag waving in the night sky
This is the end of our broadcasting for today
The screen displays one of the pictures taken during the fall of Rodashyam in 5623
We thank you for staying with us.
May your dreams be filled with joy and wonder
Glory to Nadiy-

The broadcast was suddenly cut short as the TV started bugging out, "What is it with this god damn TV again? I knew I should've never have trusted your aunt-" Tatyana remarked in a snarky tone before stopping mid sentence as a strange symbol appeared on the screen

What Tatyana's was shown on screen

Broadcast message: Operation Elysium

ID of the message: LS-623-2350

Do not use after: 23/06/5643

Authorization: Office of the Secretary General

Cause: Capitulation of the Nadiyan government to foreing forces

Purpose: Preserve the sanctity of Nadiyan Pride

"Mom, what's going on? I'm scared." Vlad whispered to his mom while hugging her tightly, "Don't worry, baby, it must be an error." Tatyana murmured to him as she tried her best to comfort him as the strange message went on:

If you are reading or have seen this message, this means that the NADIYA has fallen to forces mightier than her even with the fight of our armed forces and citizens. However, Nadiya and her people never bowed down to tyranny and shall kneel to our foes because it is YOUR duty to preserve Nadiya's image as a beacon of freedom and democracy by ANY means necessary. Every member in this administration will eagerly and impatiently help in keeping the image, memories, and reputation of Nadiya intact from any corruption be it moral, religious, cultural, political, or societal. The founding mothers of Nadiya did not die in vain and we shall honor their legacy by making sure no enemy of good manages to obtain any once of knowledge on OUR sacred and cherished nation for which MILLIONS spilled their blood, and I am sure millions of patriots and every single person living on these isles shall proudly honor our dignity, pride, and integrity through the sacrifice of every patriot. Remember this isn't just about Nadiya, but the whole of Terra needs us to resist this enemy. They can occupy our streets, homes, and even families but they cannot occupy our SPIRIT

 This was a message released by the office of the Secretary General Rostlyvan Dovhan. 

Suddenly the screen switched to images while Nadiya is not yet lost played in the background, as a series of messages played on the screen 

ACT IMMEDIATELY 
HONOR LIBERTY BY TAKING THE FINAL AND GREATEST LIBERTY OF ALL

IT IS A PRIVILEGE TO BE CALLED TO ACTION
YOU TAKE NADIYA WITH YOU
--------------
WE WILL EACH BE REMEMBERED 
USE THE METHOD MOST AVAILABLE TO YOU AT THIS TIME

YOUR CORAGE WILL INSPIRE OTHERS
THERE IS NOTHING TO FEAR
--------------
THE TIME HAS COME
ACCESS TO A LOADED FIREARM IS IDEAL 

PLACE THE MUZZLE (HOLE OF GUN) UPWARD TO THE ROOF OF YOUR MOUTH

THANK YOU 
JOIN YOUR NEIGHBORS, YOUR FAMILY, YOUR GODS
------------

As soon as that specific message appeared on screen, Tatyana froze in shock as she heard gunshots echo through her housing complex, she then hurriedly covered Vlad's ear to muffle the noises as the broadcast went on. Suddenly a message flickered on screen for a few seconds

YOUR COUNTRY NEEDS YOU
TO SAY GOODBYE WITH PRIDE AND DIGNITY
-------------------
AS A CITIZEN YOU MUST ACT NOW
YOUR LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT HAS BEEN ORDERED TO ENSURE YOUR COMPLIANCE

IT IS AGAINST THE LAW TO DELAY THE INEVITABLE
THIS MESSAGE WILL REPEAT UNTIL THERE IS NONE LEFT TO READ IT

---------------------

Suddenly an extremely loud scream followed by a thunderous boom emanated from Tatyana's neighboring unit while she tried her best to shelter vlad from the horrific sounds. Then came the most disturbing of all the messages:

IF THERE IS TIME
TAKE THE VICTORY POSITION
REMEMBER THE 3 F POSITION:
FEET TOGETHER 
FACING THE SKY
FOREVER CHERISHED

IN REGARDS TO YOUR CHILDREN
TEND TO THEM BEFORE YOURSELF 

USE A CALM TONE OF VOICE AND TELL THEM TO LOOK AT THE FLOWERS
EVERYONE CAN DO THEIR PART
-------------------
INFANTS AND PETS
THE SMALLEST PATRIOTS

YOU-

Out of the blue the message stopped before displaying the following, 


Shortly after, the TV seemed to go back to normal as an official apology was shown saying 

SLG31 CORRECTION
Earlier today, this station aired what appeared to be a warning message from a NEC government agency. 
This has been confirmed to be a hoax
SLG31 apologizes for this incident and we promise it won't happen ever again.
---------------

SLG31 APOLOGY CARD
DO NOT USE AFTER: 1/03/5645
IN THE EVENT OF ACCIDENTAL PUBLIC BROADCAST DURING OFF-AIR RELAY REMOTE TESTING
LAUNCH OF OPERATION: BROKEN MASK

[Nileowen]

Aiden Byrne TD, Public Accounts Committee, Ardmara House, Ardmara
April 2nd 5644

Well shit, that didn't go as planned. Trying to get the Central Bank to admit what those redacted accounts were isn't as easy he had thought. Unfortunately for that representative, he was stubborn enough to not give up without at least striking back. He would file an official motion for the details, it would probably be denied, and he would go digging for some truth, and, with some luck, he would find some minor dirt that could be used to push himself and his less-than major party up in the polls.