Return of the Eagle (Closed; The Cornellian Empire)

[The Cornellian Regency]

Aquilea; Capital of the Carnellian Regency

A warm breeze flitted through the city, causing the scarlet and gold flags arrayed throughout the capital to wave lazily. Surrounding the Curia and the adjoining Forum Aquileum were hundreds of Praetorian Guards in full uniform and kit. Inside their perimeter were thousands of people, filling the Forum and spilling over into the streets feeding into it. The Cornellian Flag was in evidence wherever one looked. At the top of the steps leading into the Curia were several prominent Senators, the Praetors, the Legate of the Praetorian Guard, the Pontifex Maximus, and the Princeps Senatus. Camera crews were set up to broadcast the proceedings across the Regency and throughout the region.

The Princeps Senatus, a man by the name of Appius Decius Verres, stood to address the assembled crowd. "Over a century and a half ago, our culture experienced the greatest cataclysm to have befallen it in its centuries of growth, advancement, and conquest. The Old Empire that had conquered most of the region, was itself conquered by those who had sought shelter under the protecting wings of its Armed Forces. During the final stages of that tumultuous time, we even lost our capital. And for the next several decades, we huddled here, on our island home, tenaciously holding onto the last redoubt of our former glory. And now we stand as one of the most stable states in the region, standing strong after over a century of trials.

"Despite the efforts of those that would see our culture wiped off the face of the planet, we have survived. In defiance of those who deem our religious beliefs contemptible, we have held firm. In the face of those whom profess to offer liberation at the cost of slavery, we have thrived.

"Therefore, the Senate believes that the time has come to complete our resurrection as the true successor to the Cornellian Empire. The Imperial Family may have been lost during the Cataclysm, but our Regent is the holder of the delegated powers of the Emperor in the Southern Empire. Allow me to present Regent Marcus Aurelius Scipio."

Scipio, wrapped in a purple toga with gold edges, exited the Curia, greeted by the applause of the assembled masses. The Pontifex Maximus, an aged man by the name of Servius Domitius Lepidus, then stood, handing a bundle of purple silk to Verres before turning to face Scipio. Speaking with the grave tone that comes only with years of religious service, he said, "Marcus Aurelius Scipio, Regent of the Southern Cornellian Imperial Regency as delegated by Emperor Titus Lucretius Fusus, are hereby named and declared Emperor of the Cornellian Empire at the behest of the Senate." Ledpidus removed the silk cover to reveal a corolla, a gold wreath of laurel branches and leaves, which he lifted to the heavens. "Oh great and powerful Jupiter, we invoke you to guide us as we inaugurate a new Emperor." He then placed the wreath on the brow of the now kneeling Scipio, who rose as the priest shouted, "AVE IMPERATOR!" the second shout was mirrored by the assembled thousands.

Scipio allowed the cheering to continue for a minute before he raised his hand and silence fell across the Forum. "I am honored to be chosen by the gods and by the Senate to take on this ancient and noble title, one that symbolizes the strength and honor of our nation, and I hope to lead our great nation to further heights as we move forward. [The crowd cheers] But while it is ultimately to my people and nation that I owe my most sacred honor and duty, I feel that I must take a moment and make a series of proclamations for the benefit of those foreign barbarians who would misinterpret this final act of our restoration.

"First, I hereby declare that the Old Empire is officially dissolved.

"Second, we hereby revoke our claim to the sovereignty over the former client states of the Old Empire, both loyalist and rebel. We do, however, retain all claims to former Imperial Provinces, the particulars of which may be negotiated in the appropriate channels.

"Third, all territory still claimed or administered by the Cornellian Regency hereby forms a new South Cornellian Empire.

"And finally, I invite all interested parties to contact my government with any concerns invoked with this transition. I am particularly interested in meeting the former Loyalist states' governments to discuss how this change may affect relations between us and them, but any former rebel states are also welcome to contact us.

"I once again extend my thanks to my countrymen and to the Senate for this historic honor. I hereby declare today to be Restoration Day, and all nonessential industries to close for the enjoyment of public festivities."

As the new Emperor walked back into the Curia, leaving behind a tidal wave of cheering, the camera crews panned across the crowd, sending the live footage into every state in the region. As celebratory crowds took to the streets in every city in the new Empire, all were acutely aware of the shockwaves that were reverberating across the region as a direct result to the announcements. But for today, they were determined to celebrate their restoration. "Carpe diem quam minimum credula postero" was everyone's motto today.

[Wolfmanne]

Commonwealth Palace
Presidential Wing
Aurumtum

President Palmiro De Duca was a busy man, one who put his country before himself, like his ancestor Admiral De Duca, who fought for the Empire during it's Last Days. The Empire. As magnificent as it once was, Wolfmanne had prospered too much for it to be considered. Did the Empire bring the people the National Health Service, a powerful free market economy or a social security net if it all went too bad for the people? His country was in a good position to bargain with Loyalists and Separatists, for they fought for the Empire during the Great War and later broke away from the South Cornellian Empire after the Wolfmanni Civil War between the Loyalist and Separatists, which saw the death of King Alfonso V and his daughter Queen Sophie I initiating a series of reforms which made the country a better place.

"Those were the days" the President whispered quietly to himself, looking at a portrait of his late ancestor. No one else was in his office, but the threat of an invasion of Parhes had caused a panic in the government, with the Wolfmanni Diplomatic Service, the Cabinet and the Legislature all sending him regular updates the various debates they're having, the President had to prepare for a meeting with the Cabinet for an official Wolfmanni response. The positioning of Cookish forces in a Wolfmanni protectorate on the basis of an apparent threat of invasion from Kazakia, something which the Directorate of Intelligence had nothing to report on. Pick up the paper, put in the right desk. One would think that the President, the Big P, would have hordes of Secretaries to do this for him. However, one was on maternity leave and the rest were in some civil servant's office party.

The phone began buzzing, quite possibly another update from the Diplomatic Service on Kazakia and Parhes. Sighing, he picked up the phone, less them eager to hear some bumbling diplomat moaning about some really insignificant.

"This is President Palmiro De Duca speaking" he begun. "What is it then?"

---

To: Emperor Marcus Aurelius Scipio
Cc: N/A
Encryption: Moderate
From: President P. De Duca

Although the days of the Empire are long gone, there is one hope; you, the Cornellian Regency, now hereby recognised as the South Cornellian Empire, are that. Even when we split from you, we recognised you as the legitimate heirs of the Empire, fighting to keep the last remnants of the Empire from falling apart. When we left a hundred years ago, one of the last client kingdoms to seperate, we did it for the sake of our people, for it was they who were being persecuted by the Separatists rebel during the Wolfmanne Civil War, not because we doubted the Empire, viewed it as corrupt, separated for our religious differences or any reason that the Separatists made up all those years ago. Ambassador Alvisa Fiorentino, the Ambassador to the Cornellian Regency, shall be on hand if you need to speak to a representative of Queen Sophie II. On behalf of Wolfmanne, I wish Emperor Marcus Aurelius Scipio luck in leading the South Cornellian Empire to glory.

However, there is one favour of which we ask you. As you may be aware, there have been unconfirmed threats made towards Parhe, one of our closest allies, from the Federation of Cossacks. These threats, although unconfirmed by the Directorate of Intelligence, our foreign intelligence agency, troubles dearly, for the Cookish States have begun to stir, offering aid towards Parhe. Although we have, at least for now, allowed Cookish forces to operate in the area, what concerns us is that the Cossacks, loyal to the Empire as always, seeks to become a client kingdom, perhaps even a province under direct Imperial rule. If the Cossacks' invasion plans are true and they are accepted as a client kingdom, we would have no choice but sever ties from the Empire. For the sake of the Parhesians, for the sake for Wolfmanni lives, please can you do what you can to prevent their plans. If their plan proceeds whilst they are a client kingdom, I fear conflict between our two nations.

But why fight, for it was the Wolfmanni legionnaire who died at the gate of Cornellia, along side his Cossack and Cornellian brother - who now threaten to become an enemy of one of the few nations which respected the Regency, respect which I hope shall carry over towards the new incarnation of the South Cornellian Empire. Ambassador Fiorentino, on behalf of the Commonwealth, wishes to speak to a representative of the Empire, to strengthen ties between our two glorious nations. Despite the fact that Wolfmanni sovereignty is too valuable to give up now, our hospitality towards our allies is something we pay to do, for it will be rewarding to us and to our Imperial friends. I wish you give you best luck of what seems to be a new horizon; a new horizon for the Empire, restored of it's prestige, of it's capital. Thank you Emperor Scipio, for reading a letter of congratulations from the People of Wolfmanne.

Yours Sincerely, President P. De Luca

[Cossacks]

The moon could still be seen, and was only beginning to give way to a cold sun which was beginning to illuminate the freezing night; the rising of the sun did little to warm the city of Kalas, the capital of the Imperial Province of Kazakia and the Federation of Cossacks. Despite the early morning, the streets were filled with the people from Kalas and the surrounding villages, though something about the scene appeared to be shockingly un-Cossack. There was the City Fire Pit, pits which sat in the center of every city and village throughout Kazakia, they were used to build the massive bonfires which were key to the celebrations frequently held during the chilling nights for various reasons. For all practical purposes, the prior night had been declared a national holiday- they had heard that the Regency had a major announcement to make, that the Regent himself would be addressing loyal Imperial subjects worldwide. This announcement of course spurred nearly a dozen high profile political analysis from across Kazakia to begin to speculate, and they returned to the people of the Federation, in a single voice, the answer to their questions; the Regent was going to call for the reunification of the Empire. Reunification was the only solution- after all, what else would the Regent need to address the world for?

Kazakia had responded to these predictions perhaps with over optimism, obviously, the Hetman and Atamans had reasoned, there would be people who would resist such as Edomites, Cookes, the Parhenese, possibly even the Nords, but none of this had mattered. If the Regent was prepared to reunite the Empire, than surely he had also managed to locate an Imperial descendent, one destined to claim the throne of this renew Empire, a single figure that all Cossacks would bow before and pledge to undying loyalty, just as they had the Emperors of old. Every flag of the Federation had been removed from the nation, and replaced with the flag of Kazakia, a Province of the Cornellian Empire. The army had been mobilized yet again, with forces, even now, heading at full speed towards the borders, prepared to cross over into enemy territory in what would, percentage wise, be the largest mobilization of land based soldiers since the Cossacks had first learned of The Fall. Yes, things were going excellently for the Cossacks, who were eager to reclaim the Empire… but that had been before the Regents speech.

With the Regent’s final remarks, the nation had been stunned, shocked, speechless. However, the announcement had immediately affected practically every aspect of Cossack life. Namely, the economy was seeming to come to a halt, as many people in the nation had simply not arrived to their work, factories were abandoned and mines were empty- no one in the government could get into contact with anyone, save for the military who were reporting some thirty percent moral drops- and continued to remind the government that this was only the beginning of the plummeting morales corpus. The soldiers weren’t the only ones losing a sudden battle with doubt, some government predictions suggested that the Hetman’s approval rating could fall some sixty percent in a month if something of monumental importance, some massive and unforeseen victory for the Cossacks; though at the moment it looked bleak.

The Hetman was faced with, for the first time since The Fall, the possibility of removal- a word so sickening it could make many a grown Cossack tremble, and the Hetman feared that even removal would not be enough for such a failure and feared the potential excommunication of the entirety of the House of Rhysin. Indeed, the Federation of Cossacks had never even declared independence, they had never wanted it- they were set to be forever content with their role and position as a Province assisting in the greater motions of the Empire which were far beyond their own comprehension. Now, however, they had had independence thrust upon them, they had been forcibly given something they never wanted, cornered into admitting that the Empire of antiquity was truly gone, forever dead and this was not something they could readily admit.

In Kazakia, everything revolved around the Empire. Their monetary unit, the Imperial Credit, their status as an official Province of the Empire with an autonomous Federation governing the people within said province, the military branches were still preluded by the title Imperial-Federation, the technical head of state was still the Lost Emperor, the official language was Latin, the official religion was Roman paganism. More importantly, the Council of Atamans and the Hetman, the two ruling figures of the Federation, could always keep the populace in line, as they could avoid major social issues by retreating to the standards followed under the Empire. Now it seemed all of this had been swept away, and the Hetman had ordered what had previously been the Imperial-Federation Army from the border to suppress, what he could only suspect, would snowball into full-fledged riots across the snowy land.

***

“Hetman,” came the voice of Ataman Ivan Azov, the elderly man had served as Ataman of his House for the past forty years and was well respected by the entire Council, he had also been Izekiel’s strongest competition for the position of Hetman, though the House of Rhysin’s age had helped the Izekiel secure a slight lead in the final votes, thus awarding him the position he would hold for life. “We must control this fall out.” The Hetman looked up from his desk, papers and reports were scattered across it, his children were still in New Edom, which was dangerous considering the massive political upheaval they had just experienced, worse yet- he had personally given overwhelming approval to a possible invasion of Parhe, and now he was forced to question everything. He, like all Cossack children, had been taught that the gods were less than benevolent, and that centuries ago they had collapsed into civil war, this fighting lasted until they had united against a common enemy, the Cornellian Empire- they decided to ruin this great nation because its unity mocked them, for it demonstrated that mere mortals could act in unison better than even Jupiter and his Court. This was the reason for The Fall, it was not internal or tribal pressures, not the economy, but divine intervention, and the world would remain in chaos until the Empire was restored, and this announcement made that possibility seem farther than ever.

“Agreed,” the Hetman said slowly, and he shook his head, still marveling at the fact that yesterday his nation had celebrated with cries of Reconquista, and today he was forced to mourn the official death of, what had been called, the Old Empire. “Cut every communication system in the nation. If anyone hears anything more on the matter, it’s going to be from me directly. Organize an official announcement, order a honor bound period of inimicos unum,” which was a period of enemies and opposing factions treating each other as if they were a single House, such declarations were followed as part of Cossack honor, and were only employed in times of great upheaval when everything needed to be completely calm for a period.

***

“Today is certainly a dark one for the Federation, and is sadly, the last one for the Empire.” The Hetman announced hours later at a press conference being broadcast on practically every communication device in Kazakia. “In all honesty, I don’t know what all this means for the Federation other than the fact that we are no longer a Province of the Cornellian Empire. We are still amongst the last remnants of the Cornellian Empire; we are still a powerful people. We will discuss this matter with the Regent, now Emperor of the Southern Cornellian Empire, to determine exactly how this will effect relations between our peoples, but… we survived The Fall, and this too will pass. It is possible,” the Hetman paused, knowing that the next words he would say would forever shake the foundations of Kazakia amongst the International Community and would be a major turning point in the apparently independent Federation’s history, “It is now possible for the Federation of Cossacks to… to,” it was a difficult thing to say, an even more difficult concept to grasp, “normalize relations with the former rebellious states and we will drop any claims of illegitimacy with their current governments and will for the first time since The Fall, consider the extension of official diplomatic recognition to the nations of the world.” The Hetman ordered the signal cut, normally he was a much better speaker, but today he only hoped for a swift sunset, tomorrow would be another day, and he would deal more completely with this crushing dilemma when it came.

***

Official Diplomatic Communique
To The Southern Cornellian Empire
From The Federation of Cossacks

We do not know if we are to be saddened or outraged at your most recent announcement, in which you surrendered claim of the Old Empire and in doing so, dashed every major piece of policy throughout the Province turned Federation. We cannot guarantee how this will affect our relations, know that some of the Great Houses have even begun to consider severing diplomatic ties and repudiate your announcement. We have been, undeniably, the most loyal Province in the Empire since our inception, and we hope that relations can somehow be maintained, but it will take an action equal to your most recent in terms of colossally revolutionizing previously held standards. We offer you this only due to our years of friendship, camaraderie, and loyal service.

[The Cornellian Regency]

Official Diplomatic Communique
To The Southern Cornellian Empire
From The Federation of Cossacks

We do not know if we are to be saddened or outraged at your most recent announcement, in which you surrendered claim of the Old Empire and in doing so, dashed every major piece of policy throughout the Province turned Federation. We cannot guarantee how this will affect our relations, know that some of the Great Houses have even begun to consider severing diplomatic ties and repudiate your announcement. We have been, undeniably, the most loyal Province in the Empire since our inception, and we hope that relations can somehow be maintained, but it will take an action equal to your most recent in terms of colossally revolutionizing previously held standards. We offer you this only due to our years of friendship, camaraderie, and loyal service.

The Decemvir of Foreign Relations had been alerted to anticipate a message from the Cossacks, although the level of implied anger the message contained was slightly unexpected. The Consul shrugged it off and wrote a short message in reply, following the directions his Emperor had given him.

Official Diplomatic Communique
To: The Federation of Cossacks
From: The South Cornellian Empire
Subject: Re: Your Message

The new Emperor both acknowledges and sincerely thanks the Cossack people for their unwavering loyalty to the Old Empire and to the Regency in the years following the Cataclysm. It is true that no other Client State has shown the level of commitment and dedication as the Cossacks, and we are eager to repair any damage done to our mutual relations as quickly as may properly be achieved. As such, the Emperor officially extends a personal invitation to the Hetman and representatives from each of the Great Houses to discuss our new relationship, and to reward your loyalty in a way that adequately embodies your level of commitment as well as our sincerest thanks.

[Aldares]

Westcliff, South Aldares

"It is about damn time. Heh heh, enim Imperatorem!" Censor Quirius raised his glass of scotch to the crowd of soldiers sitting around him in the Censor's Lounge. In South Aldares, many were of Imperial-Aldaresian descent, and the restoration of the Empire was a glorious occasion for both of their ancestries. It had been ages since any generation of Aldaresians had witnessed the crowning of a new monarch, and when it had finally happened, citizens crowded around their old television sets to watch their new Emperor become what he deserved; a god on Earth. With the blood of man and god bound together Aldaresians believed that the Golden Age was finally arriving. In South Aldares, the government observed, quite to the glee of the inhabitants, Restoration Day.

Tvares, Free Aldares

"We have no other monarch than the ones of New Edom, gods be damned!" A Free Aldaresian soldier, off-duty, threw a punch in a local tavern at a South Aldaresian, who had been taunting the man all night. Both were Aldaresian soldiers, both were off-duty, and both were very, very drunk. The fight was quite pathetic, and the barkeep decided not to stop the fight, as it was slightly amusing and he didn't care for either sides of the argument; he was Nalayan, and have any king or queen, simply a General, whom he dearly cherished. He had a framed picture of her beside his bed and he had to point out who it was to the tavern-goers, for they didn't know who she was. It was rare to find a Aldaresian who knew about politics outside of their own country. Even then, most only knew their local representatives and the Big Two, Censor Quirius and Populi Gandus.

House of Commons

Populi Gandus wearily rubbed his temples. This annoying Cornellian regime was becoming quite tiresome to him, but their was nigh a thing he could do to stop it. Free Aldares was sheltered from Cornellian influence by it's Edomite allies, but the immigration between South and Free Aldares meant a growing influx of patrons of the Emperor showing up at his doorstep. They knew no bounds for their love of the Empire, and while that was all fine and dandy, they pushed it too far sometimes, and the Free Aldaresians didn't take too lightly to a disturbance like that. They appreciated their Edomite kings and queens, but it wasn't something they would die for in an instant. When the South Aldaresians told off the Free Aldaresians, and the Free Aldaresians barely mumbled a quick witty response, a fight usually emerged from the temper of the brawlers.

Civil disputes and an ethnic rivalry were just two problems that made running the country a testing task for Populi Gandus. Despite all this, he still found enough optimism to keep a light smile on his face at all times.

[New Edom]

Sixington, Gloria Regis

It was a really hot day, and sunny, on Flora Beach on the southern edge of Sixington, and Atia Justus, her voluptuous bare body streaming with water, was coming in out of the water, smoothing her dark hair away from her face, smiling at her friends and family who were gathered along various degrees towards the water's edge. She was still in good shape after having two children, and she still enjoyed a good healthy swim on a warm day. Her husband Falco was with their kids helping them make a sand castle, and not far off her cousin Tabitha was tanning and watching the little video player they had brought along. Gloria Regians were possibly even more communal in lifestyle than New Edomites, and no holiday was complete without extended family and friends, often in the dozens. A picnic easily became a feast, a dinner party a banquet, a beach vacation a party. Get a bunch of such groups together and beaches were crowded with people.

"What did we bring for picnic?" asked Toby, her younger boy, built like a little cub and always hungry, as he dug at the moat with his toy shovel.

"We brought pita pockets--yours has your favorites, cucumber, tomato, goat cheese, sprouts and shredded carrot," replied Atia, reaching for her towel. They were all smelling nicely of the aloe based body lotion they wore to the beach; Falco said, "Here, let me rub some on you now that you've done a good job washing it off in the sea." Atia laughed and held up her hair while her husband rubbed down her body with the lotion. As he did they caught the eye of Marcus Rufus, Falco's nephew, who looked away a bit shyly from her, obviously aroused. They both hid their laughter. Falco remarked, "I think Marcus is a great candidate for Premar--while we have agreed to home school the kids as much as possible, I'm concerned about that shyness. I suspect it's because you're his aunt by marriage."

"He blushes every time he looks at me," agreed Atia. "It's quite unhealthy." However Premar cost benefits, and they had to consider everything as a family as costs for education for children were shared in the extended family. Premar on the other hand did have benefits--it encouraged work that encouraged travel. There were pluses and minuses, but as they were beginning to discuss the situation in preparation for bringing it up at family council Tabitha had begun turning up the video player, saying, "I think everyone should hear this..." And they could not help but have their hairs rise as they heard the voice of Scipio speaking as though he were just a block or so away on a megaphone:

"I am honored to be chosen by the gods and by the Senate to take on this ancient and noble title, one that symbolizes the strength and honor of our nation, and I hope to lead our great nation to further heights as we move forward. [The crowd cheers] But while it is ultimately to my people and nation that I owe my most sacred honor and duty, I feel that I must take a moment and make a series of proclamations for the benefit of those foreign barbarians who would misinterpret this final act of our restoration.

"First, I hereby declare that the Old Empire is officially dissolved.

"Second, we hereby revoke our claim to the sovereignty over the former client states of the Old Empire, both loyalist and rebel. We do, however, retain all claims to former Imperial Provinces, the particulars of which may be negotiated in the appropriate channels.

"Third, all territory still claimed or administered by the Cornellian Regency hereby forms a new South Cornellian Empire.

"And finally, I invite all interested parties to contact my government with any concerns invoked with this transition. I am particularly interested in meeting the former Loyalist states' governments to discuss how this change may affect relations between us and them, but any former rebel states are also welcome to contact us.

"I once again extend my thanks to my countrymen and to the Senate for this historic honor. I hereby declare today to be Restoration Day, and all nonessential industries to close for the enjoyment of public festivities."

There was some commentary from Annabelle Barca,a leading national commentator on the news show, but during this there was a flurry of conversation among the people on the beach. It was a sensitive subject, the issue of the Empire, among people of Imperial descent. They kept their names, they tended to marry among themselves (though increasingly Semitic and Anglo names were popular) and they tended to be ambivalent on the subject of the Empire or else vehement in their opposition to it. In the case of ethnic Imperial Lecks, the ambivalence was often strong, as they felt that there needed to be a breaking down of national barriers. However they also felt distaste for what they saw as the Paterfamilias Obsession. Atia, as a prominent Sixington journalist, was particularly outspoken about this, and was beginning to say, "Oh, thank you precious Patron for your benevolence--Bona Dea! Caught between New Edomite Christianity and the Paterfamilias of Paterfamiliae..."

"Shhhh!" exclaimed Tabitha. "It's the President!"

President Touchstone looked more grey than before, more tired, after his assassination attempt in Ossurwald. He rarely made public appearances, when he did they were meaningful. Paparazzi from foreign countries at best caught him doing things like walking his dog or talking to his staff; his pastimes were quiet and private and boring, but he was probably the strongest leader they'd had in a while. The Gloria Regian Imperials were ambivalent about that too.

"Fellow Citizens of New Edom," said the President, facing a podium, nearby him Council Police Officers, the tall form of General Abiathar, the ugly face of John Kohath, the pretty face of Sif Finnhald, Bishop Zecharias. "I am heartened by the evidence of a change of policy in Cornellia. I am hopeful for the best but it is early days yet. I congratulate the people of Cornellia on having a leader such as Marcus Aurelius Scipio, and am hopeful of talks which will once and for all resolve the issue of Gloria Regis. At this time it cannot be stated what the nature of those talks will be, but it is my intention to request that the Foreign Minister begin overtures towards such talks at the best opportunity for doing so. I have also requested that the Council of Churches dedicate themselves in prayer for a more peaceful future with regard to the Regency in Cornellia. May God bless this nation and everyone in it..."

"The usual platitudes," said Atia angrily, snorting. "I think I should write a series of questions directed at the National Government demanding to know what they're going to do. No mention of even the possibility of Gloria Regian independence."

"You should write it," said Tabitha with a smile. She got up; she looked a little funny as her arms and legs were browner than her body--her bottom, groin and breasts were quite pale as she had been living in Lamoni for a few months. "Anyone for another swim?" The kids eagerly went with her, running and laughing into the water.

Atia felt too excited to just swim or picnic, and even Falco's protests wouldn't stop her from grabbing her Blackberry and making some notes on it, and sending a request for research to her PA (who was still in Sixington) so that she could start work after she got back home later that evening.

"We're on holidays," insisted Falco.

"And this...is history!" exclaimed Atia.

[Nalaya]

Sevan, the Military Protectorate of Nalaya

"...and now for your pleasure, the iconic jazz of Louis Armstrong, beginning with his famous piece, 'What a Wonderful World'..." the radio murmured softly in the background as General Vaneni set aside stacks of budget appropriations in favor of a light lunch. Her fresh coffee, sweet with honey and accented by cinammon, sent up perfumed curls of steam by her elbow where it was perched on a folded napkin for the protection of the beautiful dark hardwood of the desk.

"A historic day, and not a peep from you," Hravad said dryly as he came in with a manila folder tucked under his arm. "These are the estimates you asked for."

"Yes, yes, the sun has set on the old Empire and risen upon the new. I doubt the country has given it much thought since the fall of the old capitol," Anahid said. She gave him a small smile and waved at the papers covering her desk. "As you can see, I have other matters to attend to. But I'll humor you. What's this one call himself? Emperor still, maybe a king?"

"Emperor," the scarred colonel said. He was rewarded by a roll of the General's eyes as she left her lunch on the desk and moved to the bar that had been affixed to the wall so she could do pull-ups in her office whenever she wanted. Anahid's uniform jacket remained on the back of her chair.

A sedentery lifestyle had never suited the General, so she compensated for working long hours a her desk with hard exercise. The muscle that she'd needed her whole life long hadn't had a chance to atrophy, flexing as she lifted and lowered herself effortlessly in a series of easy, repetitive motions.

"You know how I feel about monarchy, Hravad. At least dictators have to work themselves into that position. They aren't born with everything handed to them on a platter. Whether or not this new bastard is a good ruler might as well be a moot point if his offspring are mad dogs," she said, phrases punctuated by sharp exhales. "And wrapping a man in purple and singing his praises like he's Jupiter incarnate does nothing for humility or reason."

"Early to make value judgments, don't you think?" Hravad said with a chuckle.

"You can take them and throw them in the same sack with theocrats and zealots. Then close it and beat it with a stick, and I don't much care who gets the worst of it," Anahid said, adjusting her grip before pulling herself even with the bar again. Even at rest hanging, her feet weren't allowed to touch the ground. "A lot of people in the outside world are going to be in a twist about this, one way or the other. Quite frankly, the Empire might as well be fossilized for the amount of bearing it has on our lives. Nalaya is united and the strongest it has ever been."

"And diplomatically our position is...?" he probed gently.

"If they want to talk to Nalaya, they either already know where I am or can buy a globe," the General said, mangled hands again shifting so that they were curled towards her on the bar for a better grip and an exercise of different muscles. "If they don't, that's fine as well. In the meantime, our official stance is that we have no strong feelings on the subject."

Hravad nodded. "At least there is little saber rattling at the moment. A refreshing change, wouldn't you say?"

"Old habits are hard to break. I doubt it will be long before they start trying to throw their weight around, the Cossacks at their heels like kicked hounds," Anahid said, words sharp with cynicism. "An Empire exists to conquer, not to endure in peace. Care will be required. And the moment they start interfering in the business of our neighbors, they will have outstayed their welcome in my good graces. Is this clear?"

"Like the waters that run from Shin'ar," the Colonel said, bowing his head slightly.

[New Edom]

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE ALLIED STATES OF NEW EDOM

To His Majesty, Emperor Marcus Aurelius Scipio

I would like to extend to you the warmest congratulations on your establishment as Emperor of your nation, and hope that you will receive the blessings of Almighty God for yourself and your nation. For generations the Cornellian Regency and the Allied States of New Edom have been in a state of varying degrees of hostility. It is now my intention to broach the subject of the possibility of peace between our nations. If you would agree, I would like for our mutual representatives to meet, possibly at a neutral location, to discuss the future of Gloria Regis, possible trade and diplomacy.

I have the honour to be,

[The Cornellian Regency]

[align=center]
FROM THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE ALLIED STATES OF NEW EDOM

To His Majesty, Emperor Marcus Aurelius Scipio

I would like to extend to you the warmest congratulations on your establishment as Emperor of your nation, and hope that you will receive the blessings of Almighty God for yourself and your nation. For generations the Cornellian Regency and the Allied States of New Edom have been in a state of varying degrees of hostility. It is now my intention to broach the subject of the possibility of peace between our nations. If you would agree, I would like for our mutual representatives to meet, possibly at a neutral location, to discuss the future of Gloria Regis, possible trade and diplomacy.

I have the honour to be,
(Image)

IN THE NAME OF HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY

To the President of the Allied States,

I accept your proposal to meet in a neutral location to discuss a normalization of relations between the Allied States and the South Cornellian Empire. I also agree to the necessity of putting our past differences behind us and discussing the future of the disputed territories as well as renegotiating our trade and diplomatic policies that are currently in place with regards to our respective nations. I would propose that instead of sending mere representatives to such a meeting, you and I should meet face to face to discuss the serious matters that currently obstruct us from achieving a more normalized relationship between our nations. As for the location of the meeting, I would propose to meet in the Joint Occupation Zone on the Armistice Line on the main island of Gloria Regis.

Sincerely,

Emperor Marcus Aurelius Scipio

[New Edom]

Joint Occupation Zone, Island of Iphigenia, Gloria Regis

Approaching the JOZ was a small convoy of vehicles, Fox 4x4s, carrying a group of diplomats, military personnel and high ranking officials, escorted by helicopters and observed by UAVs and an AWACs. The JOZ was always a place of quiet tension. It had been rebuilt and had two large classical temple like buildings on it. The New Edomite side was a light blue and yellow sandstone building that was simple, with images only of the cross, scrollwork and scriptures, and had a round dome and surrounding buildings with pillared galleries.

As President Touchstone sat in his helicopter, seeing the handsome buildings below, he couldn't help but think of a letter he had received earlier, at his gala. And the reply he had written.

My Dear Yeva,

I would like to thank you, first of all, for your frankness. I felt that it was difficult for me to pursue a relationship with you while you were in my country in an official capacity, however much an ally your country is.

Yeva, for reasons I have never discussed with you before, I have never married. I hope you will understand that I prefer to discuss those reasons in private, in person. Nevertheless, I have to tell you that I felt warmed deeply by your letter and wanted to tell you that I share your feelings. I hope you can accept my reticence as respect for our respective situations and not for taking this lightly.

When I have been with you, whether walking quietly, talking, exploring a market, eating and drinking, or even just resting and watching you, I have felt a sense of peace I have rarely felt, and with it a growing sense of admiration, affection and yes desire I can only call love. And I have regretted that we could not concentrate upon this when together.

I will be sorry to lose you as an ambassador from your country; I will be honored if you would have me court you as a woman I believe I would like to have as my life's companion. I feel that with you we can do this honorably and enjoyably, with time for me to meet your family and you mine, and for us to have conversation on what it would be like to share lives together. If possible, following my conference with the Cornellians I would like to see you in Fineberg. Please let me know if you would still like to come.

I cannot tell you in simple words how happy I am to have gotten your letter. I miss you very much and look forward to seeing you again.

with much affection,
William

There was a great deal more tension as the VIPs disembarked and prepared to move to the Armistice Line. Prearranged agreements on timing were to be observed, so that there was no possible loss of face for either side. Instead, each party would begin to move and time their arrival so that they came at an identical time. A day was picked with excellent weather, and tables set up for the discussion as well.

At 10 O' Clock, President William Touchstone, Foreign Minister Sif Finnhald, Chief of the General Military Staff Jonathan Abiathar, Minister of Police John Kohath, President of Gloria Regis Jennifer Smart, and several aides and assistants approached the Armistice Line. Once they had arrived President Touchstone said, "I am President William Touchstone, the leader of the Allied States of New Edom. With me are my Foreign Minister Sif Finnhald, my Chief of the General Military Staff General Jonathan Abiathar, Minister of Police John Kohath, President of Gloria Regis Jennifer Smart. Thank you for agreeing to meet with me. Emperor Marcus Aurelius: I salute you. You stand high above all your predecessors in your wisdom and courage. When I saw your speech, I was glad and had good hopes for the future. In the past, our people fought over many things, land, ideology, sovereignty. We fought over this very soil of Gloria Regis. Now we stand at a crossroads. I would like, if you are willing, to discuss a demarcation of Gloria Regis which recognizes the sovereignty of each nation over the parts currently held, and the details thereof. And if that is the case then we can perhaps jointly discuss future trade and exchange of ambassadors, with mutual recognition of the entire sovereignty of both your Empire and our Allied States. Do you agree to this?"

[The Cornellian Regency]

Joint Occupation Zone, Island of Iphigenia, Gloria Regis

The Cornellian side of the Armistice Line was rife with concrete and steel fortifications, obstacles, and wire traps. The men assigned to guard the border, which was technically still an active war-zone were constantly on the guard for a potential resumption of hostilities between the two opposing armies. Today, they were all on an abnormally high alert status, as today the Emperor himself was present to attend the negotiations with the Edomite leadership.

The Emperor and his retinue arrived in a small convoy of their own, the composition of the delegation mirroring the Edomite delegation. Aside from Emperor Marcus Aurelius Scipio, those present were Decemvir of Foreign Affairs Titus Cassius Lupus, Praetor Octavius Furius Triarius, Decemvir of Imperial Security Aulus Licinius Natta, and Consul of Gloria Regis Gnaeus Furius Scaeva. The Emperor allowed the Edomite President William Touchstone to speak first as had been agreed beforehand, waiting until the President had finished and his turn to speak had come.

"And I salute you, President Touchstone. As you have observed, I am Emperor Marcus Aurelius Scipio, and those with me are my Decemvir of Foreign Affairs Titus Cassius Lupus, one of my Praetors Octavius Furius Triarius, my Decemvir of Imperial Security Aulus Licinius Natta, and the Consul of Gloria Regis Gnaeus Furius Scaeva. It is true for you to say that our nations have traditionally been enemies, however not all traditions are healthy or productive. It seems fitting that we should come together here. To this effect, I'd like to hear your proposal for the situation here in Gloria Regis, as it represents the exact situation we are here to resolve."

[New Edom]

As the two groups sat at the table, President Touchstone said, "Thank you, your Majesty. Now: the proposal I have is simple but may anger some people in Gloria Regis. Essentially it calls for accepting the current divisions, and allowing for a 6 month period during which people can move if they prefer a particular sovereignty with an accelerated transit of travel visas or other requirements. During this time we will mutually reduce military patrols on air, land and sea, and mutually reduce the Zone to a normal border, destroying gradually all fortifications. Border forces reduced to a single regiment or cohort sized unit of ground troops on either side of the border, no air patrols within 5 KM of the border.

"Following this: agreement to maintain no more than one division or legion of ground forces, one naval squadron, one tactical air group in Gloria Regis proper. Each nation agrees to notify the other of any necessary military buildup due to actual or potential outside aggression.

"Finally: recognition of the sovereignty of each territory under the particular nation in question to be recognized by formal treaty declaration." President Touchstone glanced up from his reading. "I hope that is all clear, and I would like to hear your Majesty's thoughts on the matter."

[Yisrae1]

TO: The Southern Cornellian Empire

FROM: The People's Republic of Y'Israel


Dear Great Emperor Marcus Aurelius Scipi,

Y'Israel is appalled by the recent move that the old empire shall disband and a new one to be put in place of the old one, which does not include the states that have so loyally stood by you! It is a shame, a major shame, the cornellian emperor has decided this. We still have the hope of uniting the world under the Cornellian rule, as it should be and we will continue to support the empire whether or not it includes us. I would love to begin trade with you and we do wish the best for you and, the new empire. May you be as strong as you were and may you be stronger! We shall also pray to make sure our G-d looks after your empire. LOVE LIVE THE SOUTHERN CORNELLIAN EMPIRE!


The People's Equal ,

[The Cornellian Regency]

As the two groups sat at the table, President Touchstone said, "Thank you, your Majesty. Now: the proposal I have is simple but may anger some people in Gloria Regis. Essentially it calls for accepting the current divisions, and allowing for a 6 month period during which people can move if they prefer a particular sovereignty with an accelerated transit of travel visas or other requirements. During this time we will mutually reduce military patrols on air, land and sea, and mutually reduce the Zone to a normal border, destroying gradually all fortifications. Border forces reduced to a single regiment or cohort sized unit of ground troops on either side of the border, no air patrols within 5 KM of the border.

"Following this: agreement to maintain no more than one division or legion of ground forces, one naval squadron, one tactical air group in Gloria Regis proper. Each nation agrees to notify the other of any necessary military buildup due to actual or potential outside aggression.

"Finally: recognition of the sovereignty of each territory under the particular nation in question to be recognized by formal treaty declaration." President Touchstone glanced up from his reading. "I hope that is all clear, and I would like to hear your Majesty's thoughts on the matter."

"I can certainly see how that would cause certain people to become upset, particularly those who would rather see the whole of the territory under either your Griffon or my Eagle. However, these people have the luxury of only devoting their energies towards a single goal, whereas the affairs of the State make us more aware of the larger scope of things, where individual desires must sometimes be compromised for the betterment of the State, and sacrifices must be made. This is such an occasion. For a long time we have each claimed the entire Gloria Regis area to be ours, yet we find that we must satisfy ourselves with half of what we desired in order to attain something that is more beneficial to our two nations.

"I can accept your proposal that the we each drop our claims on the whole of the island group in favor of what we already control. I also can accept your proposals for accelerated repatriation for those who desire it and a mutual phased reduction of forces in the area. However, I feel that while the majority of permanent fortifications should be removed, some, particularly those sited in areas where key battles were fought in the later stages of our war, should merely be deactivated and left as monuments to the soldiers who fought there.

"The rest of the proposition is acceptable," Scipio said. "Hopefully it will lead towards a solid, lasting peace to replace the hostile armistice that ended the fighting here, but not the war itself."

[New Edom]

"Very well then, Your Majesty, I think we can agree on the need for minimal fortifications as well as monuments. That brings us to another point, I believe that it is also important that we have a ceremony that honors the fallen on both sides, acknowledges peace according to both religions, and demonstrates that our troops, sailors and airmen have done their duty to the satisfaction of leaders on both sides, and that our swords are sheathed now. Any of the fallen of either side buried on the foreign side should be returned with full honors if possible." Touchstone looked at the Emperor gravely, and a flicker of tension ran through the New Edomite side. The Emperor would never know the debates, the struggles, the difficulties that had come when what he was about to say had been proposed. "In addition to this, we would like to suggest that do a most important exchange. The bones of our King Josias I were taken and displayed in Cornellia and then removed with other relics, we believe, when the evacuation took place after the abandonment of the old Imperial Capital. We would like them returned to us with due respect and ceremony so that they can finally rest in consecrated ground. In exchange for this, we will return the two Eagles that are in New Edom's possession. We are unable to locate the third--it was lost somewhere in Raith Immel. Would this be a satisfactory exchange?" General Abiathar, Foreign Minister Finnhald, and the others looked grave but also wary as this was stated. It was not spoken openly, but it was a point on which the peace very must would rest...

[The Cornellian Regency]

"There is no question that we would be more than willing to repatriate the bodies of the dead with full military honors. As to the idea of a joint ceremony, I'm confident that we can work something out to that effect.

"Now, with respect to the exchange of artifacts of incalculable importance to our respective nations..." the Emperor waved his hand, summoning one of his Praetorians, who was holding something covered in a purple silk cloth. The soldier approached the Emperor, knelt on on knee, and held the bundle out to him. The Emperor had forewarning of this particular topic, his Frumentarii agents in New Edom had uncovered the information and had duly passed it along, allowing the Emperor to come prepared.

"...I brought this," he said as he pulled the silk cover off of the bundle, revealing the Cross of St. Wencelas, "as a gift of good faith, in the hope that it would help us to negotiate some kind of exchange. I offer it to you now, and pledge that the other recovered relics, and your King's bones, will be restored to New Edom in a ceremony befitting their importance to your people and your culture."

[New Edom]

It was possible that the activities of the Imperial agents was known to the Council Police, but the web of the Game, as it was referred to, between the Cornellians and the Edomites had gone on so long it was virtually a tradition. President Touchstone accepted the relic, and saw that it was the proper relic (though it would be discreetly verified later) but for now thanked the Emperor, saying, "We are grateful for this gesture of amity between our people. I would also like if possible to mention that we would like for there to be trade at last between our nations--trade of resources such as New Edom possesses, predominantly in manufacture of automotives, pharmaceuticals, arms, and petroleum products such as plastics. We are always looking to purchase smelted metals, foodstuffs which do not grow in the Allied States very well (olives, grapes, and other such foods) we are aware that there are a number of services your country produces as well. If it were possible we would like to arrange a trade conference between the appropriate ministers on either side, and I suppose that we need to have respective officials draw up the formal terms of the treaty." Touchstone paused. "I hope your Majesty will not take it amiss, but I would like to have this done as soon as possible."

[The Cornellian Regency]

"As would I, Mr. Touchstone. I am perfectly willing to open our borders to trade with New Edom. However, since I am not an expert on the matter of trade and neither of us have brought our commerce ministers with us, it may be to our benefit to accept what we have done here today as holding the force of treaty until such a time as the actual documents have been drawn up by our ministers, shake hands and depart, finally able to put this conflict behind us."

With that, the Emperor rose, approached the Armistice line, and extended his hand to the President.

[New Edom]

This was an historic moment; from 1864 to 2012 the two nations had been in a state of hostility. The handshake symbolized the end of the conflict--hopefully. President faced Emperor at peace; in and of itself the actual meeting was historic. The other ministers and military and official persons present rose as well, and the photograph would later be featured in newspapers and the imagery on television and on the web. As a result of this meeting there would be hours of hard work by various legal and diplomatic staff to produce a document that was testament to the agreement that had been made.

"We were here first," said Touchstone to his staff as he got onto his helicopter.

"Mr. President, God has been with us," said General Abiathar warmly. "Sir, it is also that our government is blessed. The work of years, yes, but Sir, I don't think another leader of New Edom would have been so swift to act and so decisive in it."

The General was rarely a man who showed any emotion, but he was loyal, that was certain. Touchstone paused and shook hands with him. "Good to have good people behind me in it." He said warmly. President Smart of Gloria Regis was a bit apprehensive, but was glad of the new diplomacy between the Cornellians and the New Edomites.

The soldiers, airmen and navy personnel who occupied the JOZ were still of course on duty, and had no idea when that would end, and had little idea of what had taken place. The senior command personnel were simply giving out the usual orders, and kept their eyes on the duty rosters, the preparations for the defense of the New Edomite side of Iphigenia.

[Cinya]

From the Senate Commission of International Affairs

To: The Southern Cornellian Empire

Salve,

You can imagine our surprise at your announcement that the former Cornellian Regency is no longer maintaining claims to the lands long ago lost at the hands of rebellious armies. We are certainly pleased to learn of your nation's willingness to allow the past, to be the past- remembered but not lived. It demonstrates, among other things, the sensibility of your newly crowned Emperor of the Southern Cornellian Empire, his Imperial Highness Marcus Aurelius Scipio. We trust Emperor Scipio to be a wise and just leader who realizes that his nation, great as it may be, is one geographically short of comrades in arms. Know that the Imperial Dominion of Cinya holds nothing against your state as the successor of the now officially dissolved Cornellian Empire, nor have we ever.

It is our most sincere belief that our two peoples share a common culture and, in this hostile and wantonly belligerent world, common enemies as well. It would therefore demonstrate nothing more than extreme foolishness on both our parts to refuse to meet, so that we may discuss the potential of a partnership between our peoples. We have faith in the viability of such an agreement, and if you are willing to discuss the finer points in person, would not hesitate to send to you delegates of the Imperial Senate.

On Your Empire, May the Sun Ever Rise
The Imperial Dominion of Cinya

[The Cornellian Regency]

As the Emperor left the negotiations with the Edomites, an aide handed him the recently-received message from Cinya:

[align=center]From the Senate Commission of International Affairs

To: The Southern Cornellian Empire

Salve,

You can imagine our surprise at your announcement that the former Cornellian Regency is no longer maintaining claims to the lands long ago lost at the hands of rebellious armies. We are certainly pleased to learn of your nation's willingness to allow the past, to be the past- remembered but not lived. It demonstrates, among other things, the sensibility of your newly crowned Emperor of the Southern Cornellian Empire, his Imperial Highness Marcus Aurelius Scipio. We trust Emperor Scipio to be a wise and just leader who realizes that his nation, great as it may be, is one geographically short of comrades in arms. Know that the Imperial Dominion of Cinya holds nothing against your state as the successor of the now officially dissolved Cornellian Empire, nor have we ever.

It is our most sincere belief that our two peoples share a common culture and, in this hostile and wantonly belligerent world, common enemies as well. It would therefore demonstrate nothing more than extreme foolishness on both our parts to refuse to meet, so that we may discuss the potential of a partnership between our peoples. We have faith in the viability of such an agreement, and if you are willing to discuss the finer points in person, would not hesitate to send to you delegates of the Imperial Senate.

On Your Empire, May the Sun Ever Rise
The Imperial Dominion of Cinya

Very well, invite them to send a delegation.

To: The Imperial Dominion of Cinya

The Emperor is pleased to hear that the Imperial Dominion is interested in meeting with him to discuss things of mutual interest and would like to extend an invitation for a delegation of your choice to meet him in the Imperial Capital for a formal meeting.

Sent in the Name of the Emperor.

[Cinya]

The Imperial Dominion spared no resource when talks of such importance were occurring, what they had finally decided they were confident was the best course of action given the people they were meeting with. The Regency, or the Southern Cornellian Empire as it was now to be known, had only recently given women similar rights to those held by men, and even in the modern day, women had yet to hold positions of prominence in the Cornellian government or military. The Cornellian position on women was unlike that held by the Imperial Dominion who had ensured women had universal rights long ago, and now even had women in Senate, many of whom were claimed by the Feminist Party. However, the Imperial Dominion was not the nation like the island empire to the South of the Southern Continent who were aggressively vocal in their skewed ideas of equality, the Imperial Dominion was not like the Edomites who would look down their noses at those who were not of similar faith. The Imperial Dominion was willing to accept anyone so long as they were needed, creed, faith, color, and culture were of no consequence. Their diplomatic and intelligence communities had also determined that the Cornellians appreciated the military and respected men who commanded it, so much so that the Imperial Dominion considered their military minister to be tied for second most respected, obviously coming in behind the Emperor himself.

As a result, six figures approached the Imperial Palace. The first, leading the way calmly was Senator Gaius Nonus, Chairman of the Senate’s Military Commission, behind him was the young and beautiful Marcellina Xanthippe. Nonus would handle the talks with the Emperor, discussing the military worth of an alliance and Marcellina would, for the most part, be young and charming while she took notes. The only real reason behind her presence was that she was a diplomat and as such knew how to write the final agreements in paper, things that Gaius simply would not be bothered with. The other four individuals were SIA operatives, typically these men were present only for the sake of protection, however today it may prove Gaius well to have such experienced Intelligence operatives to help him prove his points as to the military applications of an alliance between Empire and Dominion. And so they waited calmly, confident they would soon be met.

[The Cornellian Regency]

The Cinyan delegation was met at the entrance to the Palace by a Contubernium of Praetorian Guards. Their leader, a Decanus, took point as the men escorted the delegates into a meeting room of the Imperial residence. Inside was the Emperor, accompanied by the Decemviri of Defense, Foreign Affairs, Home Affairs, and Intelligence.

"Wlecome Senator," the Emperor said as the other men in the room rose our of respect for an office that they would barely have registered as significant in Cornellia. "I trust your journey was uneventful, which is more than what some can say." The Emperor directly alluded to the attack on the Paradise Lost and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Cinya's island territory. The Frumentarii had been researching the Imperial Dominion extensively, and had come to the conclusion that neither the intentional sinking of a ship full of Cinyan civilians, the deliberate refusal to evacuate the islanders, nor the brewing tensions over Dengali were outside their national character. And so the Emperor welcomed the Cinyans with a smile and an extended hand, hiding his suspicions of the artificiality of both behind a mask of hospitality.

[Gavinium Magnus]

"So, this is good news?" the King asked rhetorically.

"Certainly, Parliament thinks so. They are all keen to deal with the Southern Empire, make trade agreements and such. Does Your Majesty concur?" Count Rupert de Mark asked the King.

"It's not a bad idea, now that a major obstacle is gone. Even so, what are their neighbors saying?"

"All but Yisrael seem to think it's great, from our intel, at least. Even Yisrael seems to accept it grudgingly. Rumor has it that the New Edomites are already having talks with the Cornellians."

"So, you think that we should get on the ball?"

"Certainly, Sire," the Foreign Secretary assured the King.

"Very well. Fire off a letter to the Cornellians, asking for a conference of sorts. A preliminary for now, mind you."

"Of course, my lord."

With that, Count de Mark got his secretary to work.

To His Imperial Highness, the Emperor of the South Cornellian Empire:

His Majesty, King Damien I, wishes it to be known that he is most pleased at your decision to recognize our kingdom's national sovereignty at last and that of other lands, of course. His Majesty is most interested in some kind of preliminary summit to discuss possible normalization of diplomatic and economic relations. Would Your Imperial Highness be inclined to concur?

Your Friendly Correspondent,
Count Rupert de Mark, Foreign Secretary of the Benevolent Autocracy of Gavinium Magnus

"That should do it, I think," Count de Mark thought aloud.

"I certainly hope so, milord," the secretary curtsied and exited his office, trying to get her lustful thoughts out of her head. He was far too old for her, since she was 25 and he was 57. Still....

[Cinya]

The Cinyan delegation was met at the entrance to the Palace by a Contubernium of Praetorian Guards. Their leader, a Decanus, took point as the men escorted the delegates into a meeting room of the Imperial residence. Inside was the Emperor, accompanied by the Decemviri of Defense, Foreign Affairs, Home Affairs, and Intelligence.

"Wlecome Senator," the Emperor said as the other men in the room rose our of respect for an office that they would barely have registered as significant in Cornellia. "I trust your journey was uneventful, which is more than what some can say." The Emperor directly alluded to the attack on the Paradise Lost and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Cinya's island territory. The Frumentarii had been researching the Imperial Dominion extensively, and had come to the conclusion that neither the intentional sinking of a ship full of Cinyan civilians, the deliberate refusal to evacuate the islanders, nor the brewing tensions over Dengali were outside their national character. And so the Emperor welcomed the Cinyans with a smile and an extended hand, hiding his suspicions of the artificiality of both behind a mask of hospitality.

The Cinyans were also fully aware of the kind of policies practiced by this self-styled Emperor. He and his lap dogs who held grand titles practiced realpolitik exclusively, which was similar to a diluted version of the perfect system suggested by Invidious the Scholar. Realpolitik made the South Cornellian Empire dangerous, they would only honor treaties as long as it served their purpose, they had little respect for human life when it did not suit them, they were actively pursuing their own agenda whenever possible by whatever means possible- simply put they were never to be trusted. However, on the other hand Cinya was considerably more Machiavellian than even the Southern Cornellian Empire, and to Cinya it would be a simple matter to predict the actions of a nation relying so heavily on realpolitik, and what's more, the Empire seemed far more willing to play by the rules than did the Imperial Dominion. Evidence being their recent declaration of war against New Edom, such a declaration the Imperial Dominion had never made.

"Hello Emperor," Senator Nonus said calmly as he came to a stop before the dictator, or at least the Emperor had been declared dictator by all the Intelligence Reports gathered by SAI, and as an autocrat, even an autocrat with a title he was still a dictator, after all even a monarchy came from mono, meaning one. "I'm sure that there is much to be discussed between our peoples, though I trust we can speak, if not from positions of bilateral trust, than of mutual interest, and glaze over formalities." He said simply, perhaps if he had been a diplomat he would have welcomed the customary exchange of pleasantries, but he wasn't- he was the Chairman of the Senate's Military Commission, and he had an enemy to plot against us- New Edom.