The Discussion heats up! (MT)

[Bruke]

Released through the Ministry of Royal Affairs on June 17th, 2019. Drafted and sent out on the same day:

Statement from the Royal Palace on the attack against the Sultanate of Kyrenaia:

The attack in Utica has shocked the world.

While most Brukeans pray for comfort for those who grieve and good health for those who have been injured, a vocal few in public life have attempted to use this tragedy for their own benefit.

The public deserves civic leaders who are more than apologists for wicked men or naked pursuers of political advantage.

Figures which sympathize with the perpetrators have claimed that they were vigilantes of sorts, shifta serving as inadvertent enforcers of the higher law. This view distorts the higher law, for an act of vigilante justice is by its very nature unlawful.

Shiftinnet presupposes that one is rebelling against an institution which has become illegitimate, but there is no reason whatsoever to doubt the legitimacy of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia, both as a nation and a sovereign state. The evildoers in Utica are t'era-shifta, who would have forfeited the protection of the law if not for the commitment of the Sultana to see that justice is done, even though they have wronged her.

Neither the traditional law nor the moral laws as derived from the national religions, nor any of the customary laws, condone extrajudicial punishment. The natural law requires elaboration by knowledgeable persons to be understood, and does not set any penalty which can be brought about by human action. No legal system can exist without proper authorities for enforcement, and vigilantes are in no way suited for the task.

Other figures have unleashed their anger not just at the perpetrators, but at their fellows.

Certain bills now being considered by Parliament would bring about the very changes which have been proposed in Kyrenaia, and opponents contend that such changes would be antithetical to the higher law. The most assertive supporters of these bills, basing their argument on a particular interpretation of the Constitution, maintain that the necessity of these changes requires setting aside the higher law. To set themselves against the very bodies of law which are the foundations of Brukean jurisprudence only inflames the passions of self-appointed enforcers.

There is no darkness in anyone who honorably disagrees with another, especially when discussing contentious issues.

Remembering our common humanity, let us extend our hearts to all those who grieve.

The Crown condemns agitation of any kind, and urges the Federal Government to render all assistance to Kyrenaian authorities that may be required.

Issued in the name of he who is the Pride of the Prince who was made King, His Majesty Emmanuel II, Negus of Bruke, Elect of God

Released through the Government Information Service on June 17th, 2019. Drafted and sent out on the same day:

Statement from the Office of the Prime Minister on the attack against the Sultanate of Kyrenaia:

---

On behalf of the Cabinet and the Federal Government as a whole, the Prime Minister extends his condolences to the families of those who have died in Utica.

The Parliamentary Commission on Terrorism has been convened to determine whether or not to designate the Front for a Traditional Kyrenaia as a terrorist organization. If the initial report recommends the designation, affiliated persons, whether formal members or not, would be subject to the Act for the Control and Suppression of Criminal, Terrorist, and Cultic Organizations.

The Act provides for stringent penalties -the maximum prison term allowable, imprisonment with special conditions, or the death penalty- for those who are convicted of a felonious financial crime or a violent felony.

In addition to a designation of the Front for a Traditional Kyrenaia as a terrorist organization, the Royal Republic is willing to offer any assistance which the Sultanate requests.

Brukeans had quite a positive opinion of Kyrenaia, and a brazen assassination attempt against relatives of the Sultana brought an outpouring of sympathy and support........ mostly. Mixed in were thoughts of worry, fear, and to a lesser extent, justice being done- a divided response for a divided country reflecting on the so-called repeal crisis.

There was staunch opposition to full decriminalization of abortion and alternative sexualities, let alone legal recognition, across denominational, ethnic, political, and religious lines.

Almost two years ago, riots had broken out in Dub City which were sparked on by the aggressive police response to protesters who were harassing then-Senator Liya Gulema after a contentious vote in Parliament on the Repeal and Anti-Repeal bills. One death and two injuries led to millions of weriks in property damage and fears of an attack on the Royal Palace. Suspicions fell upon the Sons of Tewodros, a self-styled veteran's organization alleged to be affiliated with the Semien Vigilance Committee -a vigilante group operating in the Brukean Semiens and Anti-Semiens- but no definitive proof was ever found.

Political violence has decreased after a series of joint operations by RNIS and the (then) National Police, but the attack in Utica raised concerns if similar attacks could be carried out -perhaps by the Semien Vigilance Committee- targeting outspoken activist groups such as Equality Bruke or well-known events such as Dub City Pride.

Rhetoric belied hostile intent... A few MPs, provincial assembly-members and city and/or county council-members made comments along the lines of: "The deaths and injuries are terrible, but if we only had their [the FTK's] zeal to defend what is right..." Sympathies for the terrorists were borne of a long-simmering desire for full enforcement of the laws- the traditional and religious laws, that is.

If a foreign princess was killed for her lifestyle by vigilantes, surely this meant that there should be re-criminalization?

Such were the attitudes in a country which had written a medieval legal code into its laws, and constitutionally entrenched said code along with religious laws from the Abrahamic religions.

Still, from tragedy was borne a call to action- #NowEvenMore was trending on all the major social media platforms.

In addition to public statements, two private letters were sent to the Palace of the Azure Hall.

The first of the two was a person-to-person message of support and understanding. The second letter was a message with a warning of things to come.

To Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad, Lady of the Five Deserts, Ilkhana of Utica, Daughter of Kyrenaia, Mother of Her People, Highest Servant of the Lioness

---

Forgive me for the shortness of this letter, but I felt compelled to write to you personally rather than limit myself to a prepared statement.

I am appalled that armed thugs would try to kill Aurelia, and have hurt Princess Alya and Princess Fadia in the process- as well as putting other students in harm's way.

To think that so many lives, young and hopeful, have been cut short... truly, there is no tradition which can justify such an act. I cannot help but be reminded of another attack against young students, years ago, in which the dead outnumbered the living many times over.... Praise be to God, that this is not true today.

Though there will likely be much politicking in the weeks and months to come, and perhaps public pressure directed at you personally, do not let anything deter you from seeing that justice be done and that the Sultanate is at peace.

May God be with you and your family during this time of tribulation.

Pride of the Prince who was made King, His Majesty Emmanuel II, Negus of Bruke, Elect of God

To Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad, Lady of the Five Deserts, Ilkhana of Utica, Daughter of Kyrenaia, Mother of Her People, Highest Servant of the Lioness

---

I am afraid the Sultanate has become subject to a vicious brand of political violence.

Taking the American experience following the legalization of abortion as an example, there has been a relatively small-scale but continuous campaign of violence against abortionists for almost 50 years until the present day- and that was without an attempted assassination of a relative of the head of state.

Whether or not the homosexual marriage bill is approved, there is sure to be more violence to come.

While generic political violence is known to every intelligence service, issue-based political violence is particularly challenging because of its reactive nature. To help combat what will undoubtedly be an ongoing threat, RNIS stands ready to assist in in this present investigation, or in any covert operations against the Front for a Traditional Kyrenaia.

In any case, you have our full support in whatever course of action you decide to take.

Tihuti Sewi Hoy of the City and County of Brukeville, Prime Minister Tamru Negasi

[Lillorainen]

17th of June, 2019. Al'Arz.
Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I smiled softly, offered Lina a hand when rising, then followed Amana together with her, at a sedate pace.
The medics and the police officers allowed us to pass, although we had to give way to one of my schoolmates being carried out. Once outside, the heat hit me like a brick to the face.
It was Utica and summer was almost upon them.
Amana led them to the side, where a few other HGA students, all lightly wounded, waited with a few lads in black uniforms, the jackets open. I knew, that the uniforms of the TBA were surprisingly well to wear in this climate.
Water Bottles were in everyone's hand and we got some passed to us without even asking.
And in the middle was someone, who I still liked as a friend and competitor, but who didn't get the memo, that I had a girlfriend now. Atif Qalb was a charming and good-looking man (and quite well-equipped, if you catch my meaning), but...
Then again, I did give his ego quite a heavy blow with leaving him, breaking up with him and then choosing a woman as my girlfriend a few hours later. And he was the TBA's Horseman Team's Captain, too.
He was standing in front of me with a relieved look on his face.
"Aurelia...", he began in Kyrenaian, "...how...?"
I stopped him by raising my hand. "Atif... is Amir with you?", I asked and he nodded, calling forth his friend and fellow horseman. I looked him in the eyes and then hugged him: "I'm sorry. Samira was hurt. They took her to the hospital."
He nodded. Swallowed. Nodded again.
Then I let go of him. The young man stood there, swaying for a moment.
I knew, that she was the love of his life and that the feeling was mutual. One of his friends took him aside, put a bottle of water into his hands. The lads would take care of this. No one knew, how, but... they would.
I nodded to Lina, then switched to English: "Lads, lassies, listen, I need your help.", I said and many perked up. I put a hand on Lina's shoulder. "This lassie here, she's a tourist. Her girlfriend was seriously hurt. Please, someone get her to the Military Hospital."
"A name would be helpful.", one of the lads complained with a grin, causing a round of chuckles. His name was Dschafar, he was a young man with a short beard and short, black hair, nothing really remarkable about him, safe for the facts, that he smoked cigarettes (not exactly the healthiest of things) and that he had a car and a license.
I turned to Lina.
"Lina, I am sorry, but I need to return to the Dorms and make a few calls.", I said and smiled softly, I squeezed her hand. "You'll be in safe hands with Dschafar. I'll try to stay in touch. Sera will be alright."
And with that, I motioned for Amana to follow me, walking across the square towards the HGA, which loomed on the other side. I also needed a change, to be honest...

One of the first messages, which I answered, was from Anax. I typed a quick reply:

To:

Emperor Anaximander of the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle.

From:

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.

Dear Anax, dear Anna,
thank you. My best wishes for your trainer and my condolences about his friend.
I, quite honestly, do not know, what to write or do in such a situation. They let the lightly wounded girls of the HGA return to the Dorms and put us under guard here, so... here I sit, shutters drawn, in my underwear, on my bed. Aldhiyb is here, his head in my lap. I scratch him behind the ears.
You say, that you were bombed a few years ago? What did you do?

Give my regards to your grandparents,

Aurelia.

Captain Ilia Jamkiya.
Hangar at Utica Air Base.
I noted with some satisfaction, that they immediately jumped to drinking, making themselves aware of their own limits. That was very good.
"If you feel, that you need water, say so immediately. Cars of the Chandshar usually have a box or two like that in the back.", I assured both Douglas and Heidemann, as well as Kana. My driver handed her another bottle. "I don't give a damn about any protocol when it comes to that."
I let a beat pass.
"With that being said and done, gather around.", I said and smiled slightly. "Let's get the briefing underway..."
And for the next half hour, I told them all about what we knew, which was quite a bit substantial. I told them about our first leads, how they pointed towards the Democratic Movement and connections to Lillorainen, about Seitz and her group, about what we knew.
Of course, it was all top secret.
"Your Main Mission here will be to assist us, officially.", I said, "Unofficially, I would like for you to see, if our logic is... well, logical, and if we didn't miss something. There are so many people in this world, who would have a very good reason for blowing up the Al'Arz and to be honest, we might get carried away." I smiled slightly. "In all honesty, you are, what we refer to as 'The Second Team', a secondary team, whose purpose is to check and to make sure, that nothing was missed."
I let a beat pass.
"So... questions so far?", I asked the assembled specialists.

Utica Air Base.
When Marcella's Plane landed and taxied to a stop, the young woman was already expected by a familiar face.
Wearing a cloak over her usual Altanafus min la Shay, the woman was well known to Marcella and Asuna, her hair being dark brown and eyes sparkling like ambers. She was Fatima, the Handmaiden, who had attended Marcella during her stay in Kyrenaia.
She smiled at the uniforms, waved at the people, who wore them.
She liked Marcella - not in the same sense as Aurelia did, but still. Once the other woman stood before her, she bowed her head with a smile.
"Welcome back, Marcella-Khana.", she said and looked up, "I wish, it would be under happier circumstances..." She let a beat pass, bowed deeply. "The Sultana regrets, that She can not receive you personally, and sent me in Her stead."
Behind her, a car stood ready, an armoured limousine.

Headquarters of the Chandshar.
Lieutenant Amir Alnnayib.
Our investigation, which started with results so quickly, was hitting a bit of a lull.
Sure, that was to be expected, but still...
The MND was asking around, too, for example towards the Almukhabarat Al'Amn Aljumhuriyyat of Shamsiyya. The A3, as we called them, sent over an image of Seitz with local nationalists, together with the message, that she left for Adirnabul on the 12th, where she had slunk away. The A3 was investigating.
That was... troubling.
I sent a message to my MND-colleagues and Captain Jamkiya, that we might be dealing with a network of possible rather aggressive-minded nationalists and traditionalists. That they were willing to take violent action was proven.
Fear-stirring was not my intent, but the possibility was there.
Other then that... we were still searching, too. There were a few images, which were rated as "could be her...", CCTV-cams, mostly, but no complete hit so far. They showed people, who indeed could be Seitz, in various places, from banks to imbisses to having a guided tour of the Palace of the Azure Hall.
The computer still searched.
Meanwhile, the death-toll rose to 13. A girl, a Cherry of thirteen years, passed away in the Hospital of her wounds.
Things needed time now.

With Miles Alancroft.
When Miles opened his door, he would look into a rather distraught face.
His usual teacher in all things Kyrenaian, Shaira Zaeim, was usually a pretty woman. She had long, black hair and blue eyes, the olive skin typical for Kyrenaians and usually wore an earring in her left ear. She was always neatly dressed, hinting at some curves, but never showing.
Now, her clothes were in disarray, her blue eyes bloodshot. She looked as if she had cried. Her bag over her shoulder was her usual handbag, though, but a few papers were sticking out, as if she put her books in in a hurry, simply shoving them in and running towards the date she had with Miles.
"Hello, Miles.", she greeted in clear School Kyrenaian, tried to smile, "Would you mind, if we would repeat old lessons today?"
She did not seem to be capable of teaching him something new today. Something had happened and it affected her deeply.
What neither of them knew, was, that the Chandshar was keeping taps on Miles. He was a foreign military officer on 'cultural studies', but no one believed it one bit. That he so far did not do something suspicious was another story.
The van outside was not the observation post, though, but the flat on the other side of the street. The van was merely the supplies vehicle.

Al'Arz. June 17, 2019.
Lina took Aurelia's hand, then they followed Amana outside of the restaurant, let through by medics and police, making space for the former to carry one of Aurelia's schoolmates out.
The heat stroke Lina hard. She wasn't used to such temperatures. Yet, she didn't faint again.
Luckily, both received water bottles. "Thanks a lot!" - Lina said.
Atif Qalb was amongst the people awaiting Aurelia, who talked to her at once, then she asked for someone named Amir; said Amir was called for, and Aurelia brought the sad message to him, that Samira was hurt. He swallowed and nodded. Lina didn't understand Kyrenaian, apart from basic vocabulary, but from the names mentioned, and the previous talk with Amana, she could figure it out.
Aurelia nodded to Lina, then asked the people around in English, if someone could could get her to the Military Hospital, which got replied to by the complaint, that a name would be helpful. Yeah, that was a good point.
Aurelia had another good point - she needed to get back to her Dorms and make a few calls, which Lina understood well.
"Of course, you need to. I'll get along somehow. And thank you a lot! Shukran jazilaan!"
As Aurelia had turned away, Lina turned to the guy Aurelia had introduced to her as Dschafar.
"My girlfriend's name is Serafina Felske. I'm Lina Koogholm. Already, thank you for taking me!"

Headquarters of the MND FL, Northern Section, Saskilde.
While it was reported, that a thirteen-year-old girl was the thirteenth one reported dead (in some cultures, the 13 was an unlucky number ...), the computers were busy searching the databases - not only here in Saskilde, but also in Lysköping, in Lefkagor, in Bargrade, in Freudenberg, in Sophienhof near Preetz, in Leewerder, in Pippard near Lechelen, as well as in Luntrop near Nienhagen. These were the nine cities the MND had departments in. And not only there, the computers did intense searches, but also in various cities in Shamsiyya.
The investigation was hitting a lull - not exactly a surprise, but still unsatisfying a tiny bit. While some Agents were keeping it calm, continued reading in the press and in social media, or surfing in a certain imageboards not even MND Agents talked about (only for press content and the comments thereon, of course, what else?), Lt. Com. Majström nervously thrummed around on the table, his hand next to an ashtray, the amount of cigarette butts in which suggesting, that some in here were obviously very nervous.
"Gods in Asgard, Giants in Jötunheim, bind Your Powers together and let Haithabu arise again ..." - he murmured, "... we need results, results, and again results! For Thor's sake!"
Majström, normally not known for being particularly pious, had been keeping the Gods busy now for half an hour.
"It takes its time, Lieutenant Commander ..." - Agent Worringer said. "We already have the best systems currently available, but unless we can employ a magician anytime soon, we won't get to results any faster."
"Yes, but still ..."
"We just received a warning by the Chandshar - we might be dealing with an international network of nationalists and traditionalists who might be more than willing to take violent action ..." - said Agent Dahmen. "It's not absolutely for sure, but possible."
Majström shook his head. "That's not good ..." - he said. "That's absolutely not good. Did the Almukhabarat find something?"
"They're just collecting information, as much as possible."
"Do they have any more details on the people Seitz met in Ahjada?"
"They do. The guy is Khalid Qudratuliha Nabili, born on May 27, 1979, in Sirtat. The woman is Rashida Boutrousi, born on October 3, 1986, in Luhrouane. Both are known to be pretty much Seitz' ideological counterparts when it comes to nationalism and traditionalism. They got known, when they were suspected to be in contact with some others who planned, but luckily didn't succeed fulfilling, an attack on the Junaira Metro in 2016. But the connection couldn't be proven."
"Have they been in contact with Seitz prior to this?"
"No evidence ... ah, but with her colleague, Linda Pressler! We have photos of the three of them here in Lillorainen. They were seen at various gas stations along the Highways A1, A4, and A53. All taken from the 24th of May to the 2nd of June this year. Arrived by plane in Jillich and also departed from there."
"So they were driving around in here ..."
"Seems so. Unfortunately, there's no evidence as to what they were up to. Maybe, that was really a sort of Headquarters on Wheels."
"Certainly. What about the car?"
"A black van. They hid it too well, always parked in a way one can't read the license plate. One only sees the first two letters. SO."
"SO ... District of Steenstrup-Önning?"
"Possible. Or SOH, Sophienhof."
"Doesn't matter in this case - both are pretty far away from the Lower Rathe Area, where they have been seen - and this means, that someone brought it to them in some way or the other."
Majström sighed. "Doesn't really help us a lot ... in any case, the Chandshar seem to be right with their theory. This might be a complete network - maybe not a big one, but surely not a less dangerous one. I'll inform them. While they found nothing on Pressler, they might also check on Nabili and Boutrousi."

[The Scarlet Eagle]

Eagle Force One, en route to Blachkov DC.
After having been picked up by a group of five CH-53K King Stallion of the Imperial Guard, Anaximander, Anna, and their Alphas had been transported to the Phoenix Imperial Guard Air Base, where their Boeing B380 Jumbo, their official transport plane, was stationed for the time they were in Arizona. After having boarded it, the Imperial Couple had immediatly called for an emergency videoconference meeting with General Erwin Smith, the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, Daniel Coats, the Director of Imperial Intelligence, Christopher Walbert, the Federal Investigation Bureau Director, and finally, Michael Foxter, the Secretary of State.
After having discussed for nearly an hour about the situation in Kyrenaia, as well as the refusal of the Sultanate's authorities to let the Empire help them, citing motives such as bias or conflict of interests, one thing for sure, was that everyone was pissed off, some persons on the verge of achieving a Godwin Point. However, the Emperor, despite sharing the anger of his staff,had managed to calm down his subordinates a bit, by telling them to keep working on it, while he would try something...

A few hours later, just after Eagle Force One has landed in Andrews Air Force Base

To: Princess Aurelia bint Damir
From: Emperor Anaximander Blachkov

Hey Aurelia,
thank you for your wishes for Gabriel and condolences for Lt Anderson. Those two are, or were,some of the best men we've ever known.
As for what to do in such a situation, the best advice I can give you is: if you can't do anything, then don't. Just sit back and let the ones whose job is to handle this do their best.
As for being bombed, indeed, in Iraq, Baghdad, 2012, while Anna and I were visiting for an official working visit. I don't have to tell you how is the security there since 2003, when Dad chose to put Sadam out of the game.
Anyway, since when we go there, we're usually clad in tactical gear and armor, we didn't suffer much damage from this bombing, just a few burns for Patrick at most. So, the CIA managed to track the perpetrators down in just under a day, and we raided their hideout in southern Bagdad. End of story.
Now, I know I may be asking much of you, but I would please need a big favor, and that is for you to try and put a good word for us to your grandmother, so that we're allowed to sent some analysts and agents to Kyrenaia, to help with the investigation. I know the declarations of friendship we've signed do not necesarily mean outright trust, but for the Spirit's sake, we've lost a compatriot, another one is heavily wounded, and we can't sent people, while countries like Kuronami who lost no one are welcomed with open arms. ( I don't have anything against Kuronami, but I think you get my meaning). So, if you can do anything about it, I would owe you big time, period. This is something that pisses off everyone in my Cabinet, and I can't imagine what the media headlines would be tomorrow.
Anyway, I'm glad (and Anna too, and the Squadron also) you're safe, and if you need anything, don't hesitate to ask. I won't lie, this is the kind of thing that may give you Acute Stress Reaction. I've been subject to it before, especially when my dad died.

Give my regards to Damir,

Anaximander

[Kyrenaia]

Captain Ilia Jamkiya.
Hangar at Utica Air Base.
I smiled slightly.
Seemed like they knew their stuff and caught on quickly as to what I wanted from them. And that was very good.
"Alright.", I said with a nod, going down point by point, "We, of course, already conducted interviews with a number of the students and have the protocols of those. You can look them over and speak with them again, I'll arrange for that, both at UMH and at the HGA Dorms. Be advised, many of them are under shock." I let a beat pass. "The CCTV-footage is currently being analyzed as to who when where was, both by computer and by eye, but if you want to look at it yourself, I'll have you brought to the lab. We'll also drop you off at the Al'Arz, the Utica Met and our team are still securing evidence, but we know already, that it was at least industrial grade explosives, I would rather bet on military grade. We're currently working down the lists of people with the permission to use explosives and are questioning them for their stocks. Any evidence we find will also find its way to you." I knew, that this was a lot, but we had asked these people to cooperate with us, so we would cooperate with them. "As for Social Media, we're currently sifting through it, but only through those, who gave us access to their accounts voluntarily. I would like to respect the privacy of the people, at least to some extend."
I let a beat pass.
"If there aren't any other questions or comments, I would propose, that I call a few more cars and then the first group departs for the Chandshar's Headquarters.", I said, "Sadly I can not requisition a staff car from the air base, but we should be able to have a few here in... call it quarter of an hour. The drivers will also act as your translators."

With Miles Alancroft.
Shaira smiled sadly, glad for the concern he showed.
"A cuppa tea, if you have, please.", she said and watched him. "There was an explosion at a restaurant near the Haram Girls' Academy. Many wounded, a few dead..." She hiccuped, tears silently at the edges of her eyes. "A few of my girls are amongst them. The Police sent me away, said, that they would take care of everything..."
She looked very vulnerable in those moments.

Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad.
In front of the Al'Arz.
My visit to the crime scene was complete, I had bothered the inspectors and investigators too long. Now, it was onto them to find the truth and to bring people to justice, who deserved it. Who knew, maybe my old Axe-Arm needed a bit of a workout?
Next stop would be the hospital.
The press, after all, did get a few nice video clips and photographs, even of me hugging Aurelia. If anyone critisized me for it, I would counter them with a simple argument: I was only human, too.
Still, when I reentered my vehicle, I took up my uplink to the Government Network and found a total of dozens of messages, two of which were marked with Diplomatic Urgency, plus two press releases.
They were from Bruke.
King Emmanuel and Prime Minister Negasi were expressing their condolences and condemning the attack, as well as condemning the Front for a Traditional Kyrenaia, even marking them a terror organization. This made me smile slightly, especially as Emmanuel was calling for a civilized discussion of this problem in his own country.
It was... heartening to see, that not all were giving in to the immediate reflex of inflicting pain.
The more personal messages echoed that. Emmanuel taking the time to send me a personal message (and especially how he spoke about Aurelia, or rather missed her title, implying a level of familiarity, which spoke of friendship) was kind, it brightened this dark mood, which had befallen me... there were smears of blood all over the Al'Arz's ground floor, where I had stood in line decades ago...
The Prime Minister was offering help, which was always appreciated.
In any case, I composed an official reply and a more personal letter.

To:

His Majesty Emmanuel II, Negus of Bruke, Elect of God, the Government of the Royal Republic of Bruke and her People.

From:

Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad, Lady of the Five Deserts, Ilkhana of Utica, Daughter of Kyrenaia, Mother of Her People, Highest Servant of the Lioness.

Subject: The Condolences.

Official Diplomatic Correspondence.
Can be released.

In the name of the People of Kyrenaia, of Our Government and of Ourselves, We express Our Gratitude towards the Royal Republic of Bruke and her People. Bruke is a true friend of the Sultanate.
The offer to help is appreciated and we will come back to it.
We understand, that Bruke is currently having a discussion similar to Kyrenaia and that the emotions in it are boiling up as well, especially in the light of the gruesome attack here in Utica. However, allow me to express our hope, that the discussion, as heated as it is, stays non-violent.
I thank you again.

Thank you again,

Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad,
Lady of the Five Deserts, Ilkhana of Utica, Daughter of Kyrenaia, Mother of Her People, Highest Servant of the Lioness.

To:

Pride of the Prince who was made King, His Majesty Emmanuel II, Negus of Bruke, Elect of God.

From:

Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad, Lady of the Five Deserts, Ilkhana of Utica, Daughter of Kyrenaia, Mother of Her People, Highest Servant of the Lioness.

Subject: The Message.

Diplomatic Correspondence.
Not for public release.

Dear Emmanuel-Malik,
thank you for your personal message. I will give your best wishes to the three girls, but I believe, that especially Aurelia will be glad to hear from you. She took a shine to you, I think, less in the emotional sense of her age, but more, to quote my son, "like that wise Grand Uncle every girl should have."

Your encouragement is also gladly received. When I was chosen as Sultana, all those years ago, barely not a little girl anymore, I took an oath to uphold Kyrenaia's Law and to do Justice. I do not plan to stray from it, despite calls for lynchings.
I sometimes fear, that I stray from that path, but every old fossil like the two of us is prone to such thoughts, I feel.

Thank you again and please send my best regards to your sons,

Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad,
Lady of the Five Deserts, Ilkhana of Utica, Daughter of Kyrenaia, Mother of Her People, Highest Servant of the Lioness.

Satisfied with my messages, I checked the diplomatic tags again and sent them.
I hope, that Emmanuel would not take offense at me calling us both 'old fossils'...

Al'Arz. June 17, 2019.
Dschafar smiled.
"The pleasure is all mine, Miss Koogholm.", he said and made a slight bow, "Though should I say Lina?"
He let a beat pass.
"Whatever the case may be, we should go through the formalities of the police before we depart.", he said and nodded to a small police van, side doors open, with two officers registering the girls of the HGA and other victims, taking personal information and so on for later contact.
Pretty normal-looking, especially since the girls stood in line.
Dschafar offered Lina his shoulder. "If you want, you can hold on.", he offered.

To:

Emperor Anaximander of the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle.

From:

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.

Dear Anax, dear Anna,
thank you for your advice. Raiding their compounds might best be indeed left to those, who are trained for that.

As for your request... I will see, what I can do, but I will promise nothing.
I know a few people, who might be willing to help, but me trying now to appeal to Grandmother directly will lead to outright rejection. Remember, that my only powers are my word and my name, not actual power. Once I got their support for the idea, things will move on their own.
And even then, what said people of yours will do will be up to the leader of the investigation team.
As the case is, I can understand both sides of the problem. They want an unbiased investigation, you want to do at least something to aid in bringing justice to those, who hurt your friends. It's a difficult situation.
Be aware, that you owe me very big time for this!

I will talk to Dad later. He's on a diplomatic mission at the moment, some boring work-visit, and according to Tara, he almost convinced his hosts, that he could ride an ICBM back to Kyrenaia before she clonked him over the head. A Handmaiden's duty is also to prevent her master/boss from doing very stupid things.

My best regards to your squadron,

Aurelia.

Headquarters of the Chandshar.
Lieutenant Amir Alnnayib.
So we might have an entire network on our hands... that was troublesome.
Khalid Qudratuliha Nabili and Rashida Boutrousi - two Shamsiyyan nationalists and traditionalists, of the same brand as Seitz. It was... worrying. They had also been in Lillorainen with Pressler.
And their car could not be identified either.
Worrying. Very worrying.
And then, one of my (well, technically my boss') chemists poked his head in.
"Amir, we found out, what the explosives are.", he said and showed me a printout. "It's Octogen. Usually used by the military as a solid rocket propellant and similar things as well as with PBX, where they are then used to produce shaped charges and missile warheads. Including for the..." He showed me another printout. "...including for the Monarcha M-100 Anti-Ship Missile, used by the Armed Forces of Dhaer, produced in the Free Lands."
I let a few beats pass.
"What are you insinuating?", I asked.
The chemist shrugged. "Maybe someone got his hands on the warhead of one in some way or the other and...", he began.
"Let's stay with the facts. Octogen...", I pointed at a line in his own report, "...is also used in our own SAMs and AAMs and countless other examples. Before we send a circular email around the world, though, we should check the stocks here, in Markaz, in the Free Lands, Lillorainen and Shamsiyya - provided they use Octogen. And in Dhaer, if they are willing to cooperate." I let a beat pass. "Send the message out to the MND, that it's Octogen."
It narrowed possibilities down considerably.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Dorms of the Haram Girls' Academy.
I held my phone to my ear.
Anax wanted me to do him a favour - as a friend, I would. Problem was, that I would have to ask someone for a favour, too. Someone, who I did not like to call under this number, for it was his private-private number.
It was no secret, that Commander Atif Mareab had something for pretty women, usually way younger then him.
It was also no secret, that he liked to describe that thing, which he had, as "long and hard."
And it was no secret, that Commander Atif Mareab was the Head of the Chandshar.
Although married, he had multiple affairs running and had given me his number for "special times of the day." I would have punched him and then kicked him into the balls until they came out of his mouth, if it hadn't been so utterly, utterly dumbfounding.
And now, I needed to call that pervert for Anax. He owed me - and big time wasn't going to cut it!
He picked up.
"Ah, Aurelia, what do I owe the pleasure?", he asked. At least he did not sound like a pervert outright. His voice had a nice timbre. Then there was a bit of genuine concern: "Are you alright?"
"I am, thank you for asking. And Nesrin is, too, safe for a few scratches.", I answered. Nesrin was his niece, from my year, and despite everything, he was concerned about her. There was still hope for that man. "Commander, I need your help with something."
"Well, my knowledge is a bit rusty, but I was quite good in biology...", he said and I could hear his smirk.
"It's about the investigation.", I said and had his attention. He listened as I explained, both our standpoint and Anax's, then what he had asked of me. It was no use to try and hide it from him or anyone - aside from that, honesty was the best policy. "So..."
Silence on the other end of the line.
"Quite the pickle you got there, Aurelia.", he said and thought. "I guess, that I can ask Jamkiya, if he would accept one agent of the Empire in his team. Though, I expect something in return..."
I sighed. "What do you want?"
He chuckled. "What colour are the panties you are currently wearing?", he asked.
Well, so much for the hope... "Black and with lace-trimmings.", I replied.
I was taking one for the team.

To:

Michael Foxter, Secretary of State of the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle.

From:

Azad Safir, Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Subject: Possible involvement of the Empire in the Investigation of the Al'Arz Terror Attack.

Diplomatic Correspondence.
Not for public release.

Mister Foxter,
please allow me to first express my deepest condolences for the loss of a citizen of the Empire while he was our guest. Secondly, allow me to express my best wishes for the two wounded. According to my information, the woman is mostly unhurt, but her husband is in stable, albeit critical condition. Once his condition allows it, all three will be repatriated.

Your Emperor and His Government have requested to participate in the Investigation of the Al'Arz Terror Attack. At first, citing reasons of possible bias and other reasons, the Chandshar refused politely.
The issue brought fourth again on the initiative of Commander Atif Mareab, the Head of the Chandshar, and Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Both of them, the leader of the investigation, a certain Captail Ilia Jamkiya, and the Sultana, agreed to allow for ONE (1) agent of the CIA to participate in the investigation.
He or she will be under Captain Jamkiya's command and subject to the same regulations as members of the Chandshar. It is Captain Jamkiya's Prerogative when, where and in which capacity said agent will be employed. These provisions are not negotiable.

With kind regards,

Azad Safir,
Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

[Lillorainen]

Captain Ilia Jamkiya.
Hangar at Utica Air Base.
I smiled slightly.
Seemed like they knew their stuff and caught on quickly as to what I wanted from them. And that was very good.
"Alright.", I said with a nod, going down point by point, "We, of course, already conducted interviews with a number of the students and have the protocols of those. You can look them over and speak with them again, I'll arrange for that, both at UMH and at the HGA Dorms. Be advised, many of them are under shock." I let a beat pass. "The CCTV-footage is currently being analyzed as to who when where was, both by computer and by eye, but if you want to look at it yourself, I'll have you brought to the lab. We'll also drop you off at the Al'Arz, the Utica Met and our team are still securing evidence, but we know already, that it was at least industrial grade explosives, I would rather bet on military grade. We're currently working down the lists of people with the permission to use explosives and are questioning them for their stocks. Any evidence we find will also find its way to you." I knew, that this was a lot, but we had asked these people to cooperate with us, so we would cooperate with them. "As for Social Media, we're currently sifting through it, but only through those, who gave us access to their accounts voluntarily. I would like to respect the privacy of the people, at least to some extend."
I let a beat pass.
"If there aren't any other questions or comments, I would propose, that I call a few more cars and then the first group departs for the Chandshar's Headquarters.", I said, "Sadly I can not requisition a staff car from the air base, but we should be able to have a few here in... call it quarter of an hour. The drivers will also act as your translators."

With Miles Alancroft.
Shaira smiled sadly, glad for the concern he showed.
"A cuppa tea, if you have, please.", she said and watched him. "There was an explosion at a restaurant near the Haram Girls' Academy. Many wounded, a few dead..." She hiccuped, tears silently at the edges of her eyes. "A few of my girls are amongst them. The Police sent me away, said, that they would take care of everything..."
She looked very vulnerable in those moments.

Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad.
In front of the Al'Arz.
My visit to the crime scene was complete, I had bothered the inspectors and investigators too long. Now, it was onto them to find the truth and to bring people to justice, who deserved it. Who knew, maybe my old Axe-Arm needed a bit of a workout?
Next stop would be the hospital.
The press, after all, did get a few nice video clips and photographs, even of me hugging Aurelia. If anyone critisized me for it, I would counter them with a simple argument: I was only human, too.
Still, when I reentered my vehicle, I took up my uplink to the Government Network and found a total of dozens of messages, two of which were marked with Diplomatic Urgency, plus two press releases.
They were from Bruke.
King Emmanuel and Prime Minister Negasi were expressing their condolences and condemning the attack, as well as condemning the Front for a Traditional Kyrenaia, even marking them a terror organization. This made me smile slightly, especially as Emmanuel was calling for a civilized discussion of this problem in his own country.
It was... heartening to see, that not all were giving in to the immediate reflex of inflicting pain.
The more personal messages echoed that. Emmanuel taking the time to send me a personal message (and especially how he spoke about Aurelia, or rather missed her title, implying a level of familiarity, which spoke of friendship) was kind, it brightened this dark mood, which had befallen me... there were smears of blood all over the Al'Arz's ground floor, where I had stood in line decades ago...
The Prime Minister was offering help, which was always appreciated.
In any case, I composed an official reply and a more personal letter.

To:

His Majesty Emmanuel II, Negus of Bruke, Elect of God, the Government of the Royal Republic of Bruke and her People.

From:

Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad, Lady of the Five Deserts, Ilkhana of Utica, Daughter of Kyrenaia, Mother of Her People, Highest Servant of the Lioness.

Subject: The Condolences.

Official Diplomatic Correspondence.
Can be released.

In the name of the People of Kyrenaia, of Our Government and of Ourselves, We express Our Gratitude towards the Royal Republic of Bruke and her People. Bruke is a true friend of the Sultanate.
The offer to help is appreciated and we will come back to it.
We understand, that Bruke is currently having a discussion similar to Kyrenaia and that the emotions in it are boiling up as well, especially in the light of the gruesome attack here in Utica. However, allow me to express our hope, that the discussion, as heated as it is, stays non-violent.
I thank you again.

Thank you again,

Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad,
Lady of the Five Deserts, Ilkhana of Utica, Daughter of Kyrenaia, Mother of Her People, Highest Servant of the Lioness.

To:

Pride of the Prince who was made King, His Majesty Emmanuel II, Negus of Bruke, Elect of God.

From:

Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad, Lady of the Five Deserts, Ilkhana of Utica, Daughter of Kyrenaia, Mother of Her People, Highest Servant of the Lioness.

Subject: The Message.

Diplomatic Correspondence.
Not for public release.

Dear Emmanuel-Malik,
thank you for your personal message. I will give your best wishes to the three girls, but I believe, that especially Aurelia will be glad to hear from you. She took a shine to you, I think, less in the emotional sense of her age, but more, to quote my son, "like that wise Grand Uncle every girl should have."

Your encouragement is also gladly received. When I was chosen as Sultana, all those years ago, barely not a little girl anymore, I took an oath to uphold Kyrenaia's Law and to do Justice. I do not plan to stray from it, despite calls for lynchings.
I sometimes fear, that I stray from that path, but every old fossil like the two of us is prone to such thoughts, I feel.

Thank you again and please send my best regards to your sons,

Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad,
Lady of the Five Deserts, Ilkhana of Utica, Daughter of Kyrenaia, Mother of Her People, Highest Servant of the Lioness.

Satisfied with my messages, I checked the diplomatic tags again and sent them.
I hope, that Emmanuel would not take offense at me calling us both 'old fossils'...

Al'Arz. June 17, 2019.
Dschafar smiled.
"The pleasure is all mine, Miss Koogholm.", he said and made a slight bow, "Though should I say Lina?"
He let a beat pass.
"Whatever the case may be, we should go through the formalities of the police before we depart.", he said and nodded to a small police van, side doors open, with two officers registering the girls of the HGA and other victims, taking personal information and so on for later contact.
Pretty normal-looking, especially since the girls stood in line.
Dschafar offered Lina his shoulder. "If you want, you can hold on.", he offered.

To:

Emperor Anaximander of the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle.

From:

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.

Dear Anax, dear Anna,
thank you for your advice. Raiding their compounds might best be indeed left to those, who are trained for that.

As for your request... I will see, what I can do, but I will promise nothing.
I know a few people, who might be willing to help, but me trying now to appeal to Grandmother directly will lead to outright rejection. Remember, that my only powers are my word and my name, not actual power. Once I got their support for the idea, things will move on their own.
And even then, what said people of yours will do will be up to the leader of the investigation team.
As the case is, I can understand both sides of the problem. They want an unbiased investigation, you want to do at least something to aid in bringing justice to those, who hurt your friends. It's a difficult situation.
Be aware, that you owe me very big time for this!

I will talk to Dad later. He's on a diplomatic mission at the moment, some boring work-visit, and according to Tara, he almost convinced his hosts, that he could ride an ICBM back to Kyrenaia before she clonked him over the head. A Handmaiden's duty is also to prevent her master/boss from doing very stupid things.

My best regards to your squadron,

Aurelia.

Headquarters of the Chandshar.
Lieutenant Amir Alnnayib.
So we might have an entire network on our hands... that was troublesome.
Khalid Qudratuliha Nabili and Rashida Boutrousi - two Shamsiyyan nationalists and traditionalists, of the same brand as Seitz. It was... worrying. They had also been in Lillorainen with Pressler.
And their car could not be identified either.
Worrying. Very worrying.
And then, one of my (well, technically my boss') chemists poked his head in.
"Amir, we found out, what the explosives are.", he said and showed me a printout. "It's Octogen. Usually used by the military as a solid rocket propellant and similar things as well as with PBX, where they are then used to produce shaped charges and missile warheads. Including for the..." He showed me another printout. "...including for the Monarcha M-100 Anti-Ship Missile, used by the Armed Forces of Dhaer, produced in the Free Lands."
I let a few beats pass.
"What are you insinuating?", I asked.
The chemist shrugged. "Maybe someone got his hands on the warhead of one in some way or the other and...", he began.
"Let's stay with the facts. Octogen...", I pointed at a line in his own report, "...is also used in our own SAMs and AAMs and countless other examples. Before we send a circular email around the world, though, we should check the stocks here, in Markaz, in the Free Lands, Lillorainen and Shamsiyya - provided they use Octogen. And in Dhaer, if they are willing to cooperate." I let a beat pass. "Send the message out to the MND, that it's Octogen."
It narrowed possibilities down considerably.

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Dorms of the Haram Girls' Academy.
I held my phone to my ear.
Anax wanted me to do him a favour - as a friend, I would. Problem was, that I would have to ask someone for a favour, too. Someone, who I did not like to call under this number, for it was his private-private number.
It was no secret, that Commander Atif Mareab had something for pretty women, usually way younger then him.
It was also no secret, that he liked to describe that thing, which he had, as "long and hard."
And it was no secret, that Commander Atif Mareab was the Head of the Chandshar.
Although married, he had multiple affairs running and had given me his number for "special times of the day." I would have punched him and then kicked him into the balls until they came out of his mouth, if it hadn't been so utterly, utterly dumbfounding.
And now, I needed to call that pervert for Anax. He owed me - and big time wasn't going to cut it!
He picked up.
"Ah, Aurelia, what do I owe the pleasure?", he asked. At least he did not sound like a pervert outright. His voice had a nice timbre. Then there was a bit of genuine concern: "Are you alright?"
"I am, thank you for asking. And Nesrin is, too, safe for a few scratches.", I answered. Nesrin was his niece, from my year, and despite everything, he was concerned about her. There was still hope for that man. "Commander, I need your help with something."
"Well, my knowledge is a bit rusty, but I was quite good in biology...", he said and I could hear his smirk.
"It's about the investigation.", I said and had his attention. He listened as I explained, both our standpoint and Anax's, then what he had asked of me. It was no use to try and hide it from him or anyone - aside from that, honesty was the best policy. "So..."
Silence on the other end of the line.
"Quite the pickle you got there, Aurelia.", he said and thought. "I guess, that I can ask Jamkiya, if he would accept one agent of the Empire in his team. Though, I expect something in return..."
I sighed. "What do you want?"
He chuckled. "What colour are the panties you are currently wearing?", he asked.
Well, so much for the hope... "Black and with lace-trimmings.", I replied.
I was taking one for the team.

To:

Michael Foxter, Secretary of State of the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle.

From:

Azad Safir, Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Subject: Possible involvement of the Empire in the Investigation of the Al'Arz Terror Attack.

Diplomatic Correspondence.
Not for public release.

Mister Foxter,
please allow me to first express my deepest condolences for the loss of a citizen of the Empire while he was our guest. Secondly, allow me to express my best wishes for the two wounded. According to my information, the woman is mostly unhurt, but her husband is in stable, albeit critical condition. Once his condition allows it, all three will be repatriated.

Your Emperor and His Government have requested to participate in the Investigation of the Al'Arz Terror Attack. At first, citing reasons of possible bias and other reasons, the Chandshar refused politely.
The issue brought fourth again on the initiative of Commander Atif Mareab, the Head of the Chandshar, and Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Both of them, the leader of the investigation, a certain Captail Ilia Jamkiya, and the Sultana, agreed to allow for ONE (1) agent of the CIA to participate in the investigation.
He or she will be under Captain Jamkiya's command and subject to the same regulations as members of the Chandshar. It is Captain Jamkiya's Prerogative when, where and in which capacity said agent will be employed. These provisions are not negotiable.

With kind regards,

Azad Safir,
Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Al'Arz. June 17, 2019.
Lina nodded, holding on the shoulder Dschafar offered - one should not leave a crime scene without going through the formalities. After all, gaps in the protocols weren't exactly something that was likely to bring investigations on.
Not to mention, that leaving personal information for later contact was important as well.
"Thank you!" - she said. "And yes, feel free to call me Lina."
It had a sort of practical reason - 'Lina' would, most certainly, being easier to pronounce for him. Aside from that, he seemed to be nice and willing to do her a damn important favor ...
She looked over to the police van. They looked different from those in Lillorainen - at least the states she knew them of. For a moment, there was a thought as to whether Sera would ever seen a green-white party bus again - but Lina shook it out of her head immediately. Sera would - at least, Lina refused to believe in the opposite.

Headquarters of the MND FL, Northern Section, Saskilde.
In the moment a message by the Chandshar floated in, countless pairs of eyebrows all over the Federation, in all nine offices of the MND, were raised - they had found out what sort of explosive had been used.
"Octogen, it, is then." Lt. Com. Majström scratched his head, thinking. "Used for various sorts of missile warheads from a lot of places. They used it as a rocket propellant in Kyrenaia, the Free Lands, Dhaer ..."
"... and in here" - Agent Wellem concluded. "Anti-Ship Missiles such as the Förpiel FP-17, for example, or pretty much all its successors. Still a thing you can't just mix together with items from a chemistry box, I'd say. At least, we now know what we're looking for."
"Don't the Shamsiyyans use it as well?"
"They do. It's a pretty standard thing to use in the SFDF as well." She had replaced the old keyboard in the meantime, only to type the new one to death as well. "They'll inform us in a few, whether or not their stocks are complete."
"In any case, ours are not" - Agent Worringer reported now. "There is around half a ton missing from the deposit of the Eppenrath Army Base. The colleagues in Luntrop were reported this to on the 9th of June. And since the 28th of May already, there was yet another half a ton reported missing from the factory in Brunweiler."
"That's not good" - Majström said. "Any evidence?"
"You mean, like snapshots or CCTV-cam records? Negative."
Majström frowned. "You mean, they managed to let half a ton of Octogen disappear without anyone noticing?!"
"Whoever did this - they are professionals."
"Same as in Shamsiyya!" - Wellem interjected. The Almukhabarat, or A3, as they were called by the Chandshar, had obviously replied. "May 12 already. From their own factory in Aryana. They immediately reported a vehicle delivering 300 kilos of Octogen to the nearby Army Base, as it entirely disappeared from the radar and never showed up again."
Majström nodded. "Professionals ... we might be stuck in deeper shit than we might have thought. The Liberal Democratic Front and their Shamsiyyan counterparts have contacts. People like Pressler and Seitz are a danger, but they aren't skilled enough to march into a factory or a base and let such amounts of combat agents go missing."
"The question is, who would be?" - Worringer asked.
Silence. Glances were exchanged.
"We would be" - Wellem expressed what they all were thinking.
"Gods in Asgard ... we might have a security leak amongst us?" Majström shook his head. "We will have to check Pressler, Seitz, Nabili, Boutrousi and all of them for any possible contact with MND agents! And ask the Almukhabarat to do the same!"
"Will do."
"And of course, the Chandshar have to be informed. There's a good load of this stuff missing ..."
"These are only the most recent cases ... we'll have a check on all of them, provided there are more."

[The Scarlet Eagle]

Blachkov D.C., Imperial Palace, Alpha Squadron Mess Hall
As the Imperial Couple and their Personal Guards are enjoying their lunch, the conversations are interrupted by Anaximander's smartphone beeping, signaling a message. Without a word,thr Emperor takes the device from his pocket, and reads the message that has arrived.
"What is it? asks Anna, his wife.
-Aurelia agreed to help us on that matter, and said I owe her big on this one, replies Anax. And she sends her best regards to all of you, he adds to his friends.
-Well, as long as she does not ask for the nuclear codes, we're good, says Pavel Morozov, causing the whole group to chuckle and laugh.
-Har har, replies Anna, while Anax has started to type his reply to Aurelia.

From:

Emperor Anaximander "The Scarlet" Blachkov

To:

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir

Dear Aurelia,
Do I have to remind you what our other job is? Among the many operations our Squadrons, Anna and I have conducted, this one was a piece of cake.

Anyway, thank you very much for doing that for us. Don't worry, whatever you ask (as long as it's not our nuclear codes says Pavel), I'll do it.
Other than that, how are your comrades at the HGA handling this?

I understand what it must be like for your dad. For me, it would rather be Anna who would do something like that

Stay safe girl, and take a good rest.
Regards

Anaximander.

An hour later
Blachkov D.C., Marshall Building (Department of State Headquarters)
Secretary of State, Michael Foxter, Office.

As the Secretary of State has just come back from lunch, the first thing he sees on his computer when he sits back at his desk is that a message has arrived from Kyrenaia, sent by his counterpart Azad Safir, the Vizier of Foreign Affairs.
After having read carefully the message, he takes his smartphone out, and composes the Emperor's number.

After a few minutes, the two men have agreed on the conditions of the Kyrenaians, and while Anaximander will select the Agent sent to the Sultanate, Michael would reply to Safir

From:

Secretary of State Michael Foxter.

To:

Azad Safir, Vizier of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia

Diplomatic Correspondence
Not for public release

Mister Safir,
Thanks you for your condolences. Please allow me to express mine as welw for your compatriots that died today. Their Imperial Majesties, and me as well, would also like to thank you for taking care of Colonel Rorke and his wife.

Now, their Majesties have agreed to the provisions you made, and will select an Agent fit for the jov accordingly. They will advise Captain Jamkiya personnally on that matter.
This will surely calm down some voices in our government, that were starting to put into question the friendship between ouf two nations.

Best regards
Michael Foxter
Secretary of State.

Meanwhile, another message was being sent to Captain Jamkiya...

From:

Emperor Anaximander "The Scarlet" Blachkov
Empress Anna "The Scarlet" Blachkov

To:

Captain Ilia Jamkiya, Chandshar

Encryption: HIGH

Captain Jamkiya,
It's been a long time since we last talked, eh? Anyway, we are glad that the Sultanate accepted foe us to send one of our Agents and we don't doubt that he will not dissapoint you

So, the Agent is named Elijah Kamski, of the Central Intelligence Agency. Age 36, 1.98 m tall. Here's his photo.

He has been serving in the Agency for ten years, starting first as an analyst after he graduated from Yale in Informatics, before moving to being a field agent in 2017.
He has been one of our best assets during Operation Iron Fist, so his name might ring some bells to your colleagues.
Anyway, he's currently packing his gear, and will take off shortly in a Gulfstream C 20 of the Imperial Air Force.

Regards; and goodluck with the investigation.
Anaximander Blachkov
Anna Blachkov.

[Kuronami]

Captain Ilia Jamkiya.
Hangar at Utica Air Base.
I smiled slightly.
Seemed like they knew their stuff and caught on quickly as to what I wanted from them. And that was very good.
"Alright.", I said with a nod, going down point by point, "We, of course, already conducted interviews with a number of the students and have the protocols of those. You can look them over and speak with them again, I'll arrange for that, both at UMH and at the HGA Dorms. Be advised, many of them are under shock." I let a beat pass. "The CCTV-footage is currently being analyzed as to who when where was, both by computer and by eye, but if you want to look at it yourself, I'll have you brought to the lab. We'll also drop you off at the Al'Arz, the Utica Met and our team are still securing evidence, but we know already, that it was at least industrial grade explosives, I would rather bet on military grade. We're currently working down the lists of people with the permission to use explosives and are questioning them for their stocks. Any evidence we find will also find its way to you." I knew, that this was a lot, but we had asked these people to cooperate with us, so we would cooperate with them. "As for Social Media, we're currently sifting through it, but only through those, who gave us access to their accounts voluntarily. I would like to respect the privacy of the people, at least to some extend."
I let a beat pass.
"If there aren't any other questions or comments, I would propose, that I call a few more cars and then the first group departs for the Chandshar's Headquarters.", I said, "Sadly I can not requisition a staff car from the air base, but we should be able to have a few here in... call it quarter of an hour. The drivers will also act as your translators."

Doug nodded indeed they were all on the same page, as it made sense. "Perfect, sounds like you guys are very much on top of things as well. We'd be glad to look over your notes and take a second look and if anything else new comes up, we'll let you know right away. I think we're all set to get moving and get started. Whatever you can provide, we'll be grateful for. Ladies, gentlemen, we have our first tasks so let's get to work."

They all agreed.

[AHSCA]

Utica Air Base.
When Marcella's Plane landed and taxied to a stop, the young woman was already expected by a familiar face.
Wearing a cloak over her usual Altanafus min la Shay, the woman was well known to Marcella and Asuna, her hair being dark brown and eyes sparkling like ambers. She was Fatima, the Handmaiden, who had attended Marcella during her stay in Kyrenaia.
She smiled at the uniforms, waved at the people, who wore them.
She liked Marcella - not in the same sense as Aurelia did, but still. Once the other woman stood before her, she bowed her head with a smile.
"Welcome back, Marcella-Khana.", she said and looked up, "I wish, it would be under happier circumstances..." She let a beat pass, bowed deeply. "The Sultana regrets, that She can not receive you personally, and sent me in Her stead."
Behind her, a car stood ready, an armoured limousine.

"No apologies needed from The Sultana, I know how very busy she must be right now, I'm glad we made it and we can be here to help out a little. And thank you again for taking time to watch over us again, we appreciate it. " Marcella had to scrutinize the face of the maiden a bit but realized just who it was after a moment "Ah, Fatima, my apologies to you as well, I almost didn't recognize you. Your voice did sound familiar but I suppose the noise of the environment made it tough to realize. It's very good to see you again."

Asuna also gave a bow to add "As Her Majesty's Guardian I also thank you for looking over both of us. May we be of service to our friends."

[Kyrenaia]

Al'Arz.
The police-formalities were quickly taken care of, although Dschafar did have to translate every now and again. It were standard inquiries, name, date of birth, nationality, telephone number one could use to reach the person, airspeed velocity of an unladen swallow, such things.
That done, he led Lina to a small car, a Walaea Motorworks W-11 City Car - a small, small car, barely three metres long and not one of the original cars from the 50s and 60s, but one of the newer models, vintage 2015.
He grinned. "Might not be much, but it works and its ideal for Utica.", he said and opened the passenger door for Lina. "Please, have a seat."

Headquarters of the Chandshar.
Lieutenant Amir Alnnayib.
I looked at the message from our MND-colleagues.
300kg at least, of a very potent military explosive. In the wrong hands, the effect could be fatal. One could make a convincing case, that one did not simply loose such things, but the problem was there.
In Lillorainen, in Shamsiyya... in Kyrenaia.
I sat down and composed a message to MND and A3, as well as the domestic intelligence services of the UIS and the Empire of Kuronami, warning them, that we, too, had lost about half a ton of Octogen in the half year now, all over the Sultanate. Some small quantities, a kilogram here and there... and then, there was the loss of an entire truckload, which had been transported covertly, the GPS-sender one moment showing us the exact position, the next, nothing.
We were still puzzled.
The CIA would get their information package when their guy arrived.
Anyway, I was not yet finished, when one of the others in the investigation team entered, a printout in hand. "Amir, we have another problem.", he said and showed me the printout, the letterhead of the Ionchoisne jumping into my eye immediately. "Apparently, SDY lost three Type 40 Anti-Ship Missiles. They can't be accounted for."
"Model T?", I asked with a bit of worry.
"Mark I.", the man replied. "We have three carrier-killing Anti-Ship Cruise Missiles on the loose."
I groaned lightly and nodded, then began to add that into the message.
The other guy took it as his permission to leave.

Captain Ilia Jamkiya.
Hangar at Utica Air Base.
I nodded as well, then pulled out my phone to call home.
Three minutes later, I sat in my own car with the group, that would go for the Al'Arz, sifting through the destroyed restaurant's ground floor. My driver stayed behind to entertain the others.
I had yet to go to the crime scene myself, so this seemed like a good chance.
Although I was from Caralis, though, I knew Utica, and I knew the afternoon traffic. I led us through side-streets and less busy routes, which were not as scenic, but which actually fulfilled their use.
Aside from that, the investigators were not here for the tourist thing.

Utica Air Base.
Fatima nodded to Asuna.
"I hope so.", she told the other woman, then turned slightly. "This way, please. I have a car standing at the ready. The Driver Corps even gave me someone to drive you..."
Indeed, a couple of dozen metres away, a massive, armoured limousine stood, a Walaea Motorworks W-115 Armoured Limousine. It could resist heavy rifle ammunition, mines meant to be used against tanks and still offered all the luxury appropriate to a luxury limousine. Not exactly inconspicuous, but it did its job.
"Where to first?", I asked, although I had a feeling as to where we would go first, "Azure Hall, to get rid of the lugguage, or HGA Dorms?"

To:

Emperor Anaximander of the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle.

From:

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.

Dear Anax, dear Anna,
oh, I know, but do I really need to remind you, that I am a student? Not a soldier? And that we have quite capable Special Forces in Kyrenaia, who can take care of such things quite easily?

As for what I'll ask for in return for the favour will not be the nuclear codes for the Imperial stockpiles, Pavel should not worry. I'll try to make it not too demeaning, though. ; ) Fun aside, I'll think of something.
As for my comrades... I don't know how to say this, but 'grim determination' might be the best way to describe it. Of course, everyone is shocked, but no one wants to give in. No one goes for the political approach to this, they only see, that the HGA was attacked and little else. I'm proud of my lassies! Speaking of, my next reply might be a bit delayed, I'll have to look after the others in my Dorm.

I would presume so. Yet, I doubt, that either of us could understand, what Dad is going through right now, as we both have no children.

My best regards to your squadron,

Aurelia.

To:

Emperor Anaximander of the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle.

From:

Captain Ilia Jamkiya, Chandshar.

Subject: The Agent.

Diplomatic Correspondence.
Not for public release.

Your Imperial Majesty, Hail!
What greatest of honours it is to receive a letter from Your Imperial Majesty in such a small matter, yet with such news! Please allow me to assure Your Imperial Majesty, that the bar for CIA Agents is not that high, so I am very positive, that Mister Kamski will be quite capable of not disappointing me or Your Imperial Majesty.

To the matter at hand: I remember Mister Kamski. We will appoint a translator to his side. Also, please include into the flight plan a stopover at Motya. The Naval Intelligence has an information package for the CIA, which they do not want to send via electronic means.
And drill it into his head, that he is under my command. When I say, "Jump." he jumps. No question of how high, just jump as high as he can. Same goes for any agent controller, which I appoint to him. We don't have time for any primadonna-behaviour from Mister Kamski.

Signed,

Ilia Jamkiya,
Chandshar.

[AHSCA]

Fatima nodded to Asuna.
"I hope so.", she told the other woman, then turned slightly. "This way, please. I have a car standing at the ready. The Driver Corps even gave me someone to drive you..."
Indeed, a couple of dozen metres away, a massive, armoured limousine stood, a Walaea Motorworks W-115 Armoured Limousine. It could resist heavy rifle ammunition, mines meant to be used against tanks and still offered all the luxury appropriate to a luxury limousine. Not exactly inconspicuous, but it did its job.
"Where to first?", I asked, although I had a feeling as to where we would go first, "Azure Hall, to get rid of the lugguage, or HGA Dorms?"

"If you'd please, Fatima, I'd really like to be able to see Aurelia even if only for a moment." Marcella requested.

---

The Kuronami detectives ran through a checklist of things they'd like to look over and double check. Between them and Kyrenaia's own police, no doubt this investigation was in good hands. Felicia in turn figured the best place they could offer up their own services. "Captain, my team and I are ready. As you know we're primarily relief. No doubt many of your local officials have been working around the clock to service the wounded and take care of the deceased. Perhaps our first line of action could be to provide some much needed rest for them. But if you have other concerns in mind, we're ready to jump at your call. "

[The Scarlet Eagle]

Blachkov D.C., Imperial Palace,Emperor's Office.
As Anaximander has fone back to work after lunch, his wife Anna having her own office next door, his smartphone beeps again, signaling the message from Aurelia.
After having read the message from his friend, the Emperor types his answer:

From:

Emperor Anaximander"The Scarlet" Blachkov

To:

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir

Dear Aurelia,
Don't worry, I have not forgotten that you're a student, but I haven't forgotten either that you're a trained Horsearcher, that has served in the past as escort for heads of states, that you've already decapitated at least one criminal, and that Damir told about you, that if you were supposed to be a damsel in distress, you would introduce the big bad to blunt force trauma. So I think that you've got some bases already covered in that domain
As for Kyrenaia's special forces,I know that they exist, I've seen them in action during Iron Fist, so I know and appreciate their skills, but since I'm a bit chauvinist, I still Ihink our SFs are the best

Joke aside, I understand what you and your friends go through. I was feeling the same thing during the Civil War and the Purge, and just like you, us girls and guys didn't care about the political side.
Don't worry about it being delayed, as a leader, you take care of your own guys first, Lieutenant! The rest will come after.

Indeed, neither of us have children (yet), but I've seen how Mom worries when I leave for an op or a visit abroad, and I think it must be the same.

Our best regards, from Anna and I, as well as your pals, to your lassies.

Anaximander.

As he has just sent his message, Anax sees that Captain Jamkiya has answered him. Wanting to go back to work as quick as possible, the Emperor simply transfers the message to Kamski, since as of now, it will be him that will be on the field.

Imperial Air Force Gulfstream C 20, en route to Kyrenaia
As the military business jets soars through the skies at 30.000 feets, heading towards the Sultanate, aboard it, its single passengers reviews the last elements he has received about the case he has been assigned to.
As Agent Elijah Kamski does that, his blue eyes roaming across his laptop's screen, his black hair tied in a ponytail, while being shaved on the sides, he receives the message from the Emperor.
After having read it, the 36 year old man simply smiles nonchalantly, before starting to type his answer to the man that will be his Commanding Officee for the future weeks, just as a flight attendant brings him a glass of water.
"Thank you, says Elijah, before focusing back on the message...

From:

Field Agent Elijah Kamski, Central Intelligence Agency.

To:

Captain Ilia Jamkiya, Chandshar

Encryption: Light

My respects, Captain Jamkiya
I am Agent Elijah Kamski, and I'm glad to work once again with the Chandshar.
Don't worry, I won't bother you with any primadonna behaviour, that's not who I am. The only thing I ask is for nothing to be hidden from me.
I have advised the plane crew that we will first land in Motya.

See you soon,
Agent Kamski

Well, that should be enough, thinks Elijah as he sends the message, before taking the Remington Five-Seven pistol in a holster at his hip, and starts to disassemble it to clean it.

[Lillorainen]

Al'Arz.
The police-formalities were quickly taken care of, although Dschafar did have to translate every now and again. It were standard inquiries, name, date of birth, nationality, telephone number one could use to reach the person, airspeed velocity of an unladen swallow, such things.
That done, he led Lina to a small car, a Walaea Motorworks W-11 City Car - a small, small car, barely three metres long and not one of the original cars from the 50s and 60s, but one of the newer models, vintage 2015.
He grinned. "Might not be much, but it works and its ideal for Utica.", he said and opened the passenger door for Lina. "Please, have a seat."

Headquarters of the Chandshar.
Lieutenant Amir Alnnayib.
I looked at the message from our MND-colleagues.
300kg at least, of a very potent military explosive. In the wrong hands, the effect could be fatal. One could make a convincing case, that one did not simply loose such things, but the problem was there.
In Lillorainen, in Shamsiyya... in Kyrenaia.
I sat down and composed a message to MND and A3, as well as the domestic intelligence services of the UIS and the Empire of Kuronami, warning them, that we, too, had lost about half a ton of Octogen in the half year now, all over the Sultanate. Some small quantities, a kilogram here and there... and then, there was the loss of an entire truckload, which had been transported covertly, the GPS-sender one moment showing us the exact position, the next, nothing.
We were still puzzled.
The CIA would get their information package when their guy arrived.
Anyway, I was not yet finished, when one of the others in the investigation team entered, a printout in hand. "Amir, we have another problem.", he said and showed me the printout, the letterhead of the Ionchoisne jumping into my eye immediately. "Apparently, SDY lost three Type 40 Anti-Ship Missiles. They can't be accounted for."
"Model T?", I asked with a bit of worry.
"Mark I.", the man replied. "We have three carrier-killing Anti-Ship Cruise Missiles on the loose."
I groaned lightly and nodded, then began to add that into the message.
The other guy took it as his permission to leave.

Captain Ilia Jamkiya.
Hangar at Utica Air Base.
I nodded as well, then pulled out my phone to call home.
Three minutes later, I sat in my own car with the group, that would go for the Al'Arz, sifting through the destroyed restaurant's ground floor. My driver stayed behind to entertain the others.
I had yet to go to the crime scene myself, so this seemed like a good chance.
Although I was from Caralis, though, I knew Utica, and I knew the afternoon traffic. I led us through side-streets and less busy routes, which were not as scenic, but which actually fulfilled their use.
Aside from that, the investigators were not here for the tourist thing.

Utica Air Base.
Fatima nodded to Asuna.
"I hope so.", she told the other woman, then turned slightly. "This way, please. I have a car standing at the ready. The Driver Corps even gave me someone to drive you..."
Indeed, a couple of dozen metres away, a massive, armoured limousine stood, a Walaea Motorworks W-115 Armoured Limousine. It could resist heavy rifle ammunition, mines meant to be used against tanks and still offered all the luxury appropriate to a luxury limousine. Not exactly inconspicuous, but it did its job.
"Where to first?", I asked, although I had a feeling as to where we would go first, "Azure Hall, to get rid of the lugguage, or HGA Dorms?"

To:

Emperor Anaximander of the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle.

From:

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.

Dear Anax, dear Anna,
oh, I know, but do I really need to remind you, that I am a student? Not a soldier? And that we have quite capable Special Forces in Kyrenaia, who can take care of such things quite easily?

As for what I'll ask for in return for the favour will not be the nuclear codes for the Imperial stockpiles, Pavel should not worry. I'll try to make it not too demeaning, though. ; ) Fun aside, I'll think of something.
As for my comrades... I don't know how to say this, but 'grim determination' might be the best way to describe it. Of course, everyone is shocked, but no one wants to give in. No one goes for the political approach to this, they only see, that the HGA was attacked and little else. I'm proud of my lassies! Speaking of, my next reply might be a bit delayed, I'll have to look after the others in my Dorm.

I would presume so. Yet, I doubt, that either of us could understand, what Dad is going through right now, as we both have no children.

My best regards to your squadron,

Aurelia.

To:

Emperor Anaximander of the Empire of the Scarlet Eagle.

From:

Captain Ilia Jamkiya, Chandshar.

Subject: The Agent.

Diplomatic Correspondence.
Not for public release.

Your Imperial Majesty, Hail!
What greatest of honours it is to receive a letter from Your Imperial Majesty in such a small matter, yet with such news! Please allow me to assure Your Imperial Majesty, that the bar for CIA Agents is not that high, so I am very positive, that Mister Kamski will be quite capable of not disappointing me or Your Imperial Majesty.

To the matter at hand: I remember Mister Kamski. We will appoint a translator to his side. Also, please include into the flight plan a stopover at Motya. The Naval Intelligence has an information package for the CIA, which they do not want to send via electronic means.
And drill it into his head, that he is under my command. When I say, "Jump." he jumps. No question of how high, just jump as high as he can. Same goes for any agent controller, which I appoint to him. We don't have time for any primadonna-behaviour from Mister Kamski.

Signed,

Ilia Jamkiya,
Chandshar.

Al'Arz. June 17, 2019.
Despite some slight complications with the language every now and then, the police soon knew, that Lina Koogholm was born on April 8, 1996, was Lillorainian and had the Federation's citizenship only, could be reached by dialling +9979816543739, and that an unladen swallow could reach an airspeed velocity of 60 to 100 km/h depending on the specific kind. And a few things more that belonged to standard inquiries.
Lina knew the car brand of the vehicle Dschafar had led her to - a Walaea Motorworks W-11 City Car; obviously of newer vintage, not one of the iconic little racers from the 1950s and 1960s. Sure, not exactly a Mowela M6, or HMW GT-123, but a car suitable for city traffic in Utica. And it had a motor and four wheels, and that was all that counted for now.
Dschafar opened the passenger door, and Lina had a seat.
"Thank you!" - Lina said.

Headquarters of the MND FL, Northern Section, Saskilde.
"Gods in Asgard!"
This time, the Gods weren't being kept busy by Majström, but by Wellem.
The Lieutenant Commander raised his eyebrows again. "Any news from the Chandshar, Agent?" - he asked.
"You bet!" - Wellem replied. "All over the Sultanate, about half a ton of Octogen in total went lost - out of which, one complete truckload, and small amounts, like a few kilograms, every now and then."
"Well, that's surely not good, but ..."
"... that's not everything. They were also informed by the Ionchoisne about the losses in the Free Lands ... and apparently, Silverport Dockyards lost three Anti-Ship-Missiles, Type 40, Mark I."
Silence.
"Could you repeat that, Agent Wellem?" - Majström asked, rubbing his ear. "I don't think I've understood you correctly."
Leonora Wellem sighed. "Lieutenant Commander, if you believe to have understood, that SDY reported the loss of three missiles which have the power to destroy an aircraft carrier, without any remote clue as to whose hands they're in now, then I'm afraid, your ears work entirely fine."
Majström shook his head. "That escalated quickly. If these can destroy a carrier, they will also manage to destroy, say, a bog-standard cruise liner, with thousands of people on it!"
"When in the wrong hands, indeed ..."
Worringer asked, "Do we have an emergency plan for this?"
"All we can do is to try to find out who could have stolen our Octogen. As do the Almukhabarat with theirs."
"There would be a few on our list" - Agent Nygaard, who had kept silent for some time to concentrate on his research now said. "I think of Ingo Fingscheid, Hjalmar Nyköping, Carolin Wilmerding, and Ole Vagn Ulfsson."
Majström nodded, remembering their names. "All four are former colleagues of us - until they switched sides. And while they are not in our service anymore, they still have their know-how. And if our theories are true, they don't care whom they sell stuff to, as long as they receive their money - so what should hinder them from stealing, say, a truckload of Octogen and sell it abroad? Especially since there is evidence, that they've already done so."
"The problem is, that we don't know where they are. They all entirely disappeared from our radars. Not even the tropical banana republics we usually have in mind seem to be places they're likely to reside in, according to what's known to us."
"Have you already informed Freudenberg?"
The office in Freudenberg was also the Federal Headquarters of the MND FL.
"Yes, they're made aware. As is the Almukhabarat. The personal data of the four will go to the Chandshar, and the Ionchoisne as well, in a few - let's see, if they, or the colleagues from the UIS and Kuronami, are a bit smarter than us!"

[Kyrenaia]

Utica Air Base.
Fatima nodded.
"Understood. Please, this way.", she said and opened the rear door, "I'll call ahead."
A few minutes later, they were underway, the panorama of Utica passing in front of the windows. Marcella sat in the spacious rear with Fatima, while in the front, another Handmaiden sat behind the wheel and Asuna next to her.
It would take a bit, so if Marcella had questions, Fatima would be there.

Captain Ilia Jamkiya.
Hangar at Utica Air Base.
I nodded at the Col... dang, this woman looked a lot like Colonel Arán. It would take getting used to it...
"I understand, Captain Heidemann.", I said and thought for a moment, then had an idea. "Say, how well are your people with treatment of psychological traumas? I think, that we could use that over at the HGA..."

Al'Arz.
Dschafar nodded with a smile, then settled himself down behind the wheel.
Strapping himself in, and making sure, that Lina was strapped in as well, took only a minute before they were underway. UMH was not too far away, but there was still quite a bit of traffic, especially from emergency vehicles.
Dschafar, of course, made way.
Despite that, the traffic was surprisingly orderly, even by standards of Lillorainen, he would bet, and Dschafar was a self-confident, but not an arrogant driver. Especially not with passengers.
"So... you and your girlfriend - how did you meet, if I may ask?", he asked politely.

Headquarters of the Chandshar.
Lieutenant Amir Alnnayib.
We received the message from Lillorainen and... there was an understandable panic.
We also received word on four potential suspects, four former MND-Agents, with their whole information and everything. And, to top it all off, with the mark, that they deserted.
With all of their know-how.
However, such things were a rather specialized market. You didn't put up job-advertisements for that on the bus. There were only a few, who would have an interest in hiring such people, other intelligence services for one thing... and organizations of less repute.
And that was our first hint.
Despite the total ban on firearms in private hands in Kyrenaia, there were enough floating through the criminal underworld and it was a fact, that the vast majority came from abroad. These smugglers were a danger.
It was a very good possibility, that the Octogen had found its way to one of these smugglers and went abroad for a bit. But to where...?
"Inform the MND, A3 and the Intelligence Services of Kuronami and the UIS, that we are looking into possible connections to the black market and weapons smuggling. The explosives must have gone somewhere and...", I trailed off as one of my chemists came in and handed me a sheet of paper.
Now, Kyrenaian explosives factories mark their produce with a special, chemical marker, that would be able to tell us, if it was ours or not. It was useful when it came to investigations pertaining warcrimes, believe me that.
"...and that it's not ours, which blew up the Al'Arz.", I added, "And attach the test results, maybe they can find out, where it came from."
"And these agents from the MND?", one asked.
"A seperate message to the MND. Thanks and we are looking into it.", I said, glad for the reminder.

To:

Field Agent Elijah Kamski, Central Intelligence Agency.

From:

Captain Ilia Jamkiya, Chandshar.

Subject:

Joint Encryption.

We will see.

Have fun in Motya,

Ilia Jamkiya,
Chandshar.

[Lillorainen]

Utica Air Base.
Fatima nodded.
"Understood. Please, this way.", she said and opened the rear door, "I'll call ahead."
A few minutes later, they were underway, the panorama of Utica passing in front of the windows. Marcella sat in the spacious rear with Fatima, while in the front, another Handmaiden sat behind the wheel and Asuna next to her.
It would take a bit, so if Marcella had questions, Fatima would be there.

Captain Ilia Jamkiya.
Hangar at Utica Air Base.
I nodded at the Col... dang, this woman looked a lot like Colonel Arán. It would take getting used to it...
"I understand, Captain Heidemann.", I said and thought for a moment, then had an idea. "Say, how well are your people with treatment of psychological traumas? I think, that we could use that over at the HGA..."

Al'Arz.
Dschafar nodded with a smile, then settled himself down behind the wheel.
Strapping himself in, and making sure, that Lina was strapped in as well, took only a minute before they were underway. UMH was not too far away, but there was still quite a bit of traffic, especially from emergency vehicles.
Dschafar, of course, made way.
Despite that, the traffic was surprisingly orderly, even by standards of Lillorainen, he would bet, and Dschafar was a self-confident, but not an arrogant driver. Especially not with passengers.
"So... you and your girlfriend - how did you meet, if I may ask?", he asked politely.

Headquarters of the Chandshar.
Lieutenant Amir Alnnayib.
We received the message from Lillorainen and... there was an understandable panic.
We also received word on four potential suspects, four former MND-Agents, with their whole information and everything. And, to top it all off, with the mark, that they deserted.
With all of their know-how.
However, such things were a rather specialized market. You didn't put up job-advertisements for that on the bus. There were only a few, who would have an interest in hiring such people, other intelligence services for one thing... and organizations of less repute.
And that was our first hint.
Despite the total ban on firearms in private hands in Kyrenaia, there were enough floating through the criminal underworld and it was a fact, that the vast majority came from abroad. These smugglers were a danger.
It was a very good possibility, that the Octogen had found its way to one of these smugglers and went abroad for a bit. But to where...?
"Inform the MND, A3 and the Intelligence Services of Kuronami and the UIS, that we are looking into possible connections to the black market and weapons smuggling. The explosives must have gone somewhere and...", I trailed off as one of my chemists came in and handed me a sheet of paper.
Now, Kyrenaian explosives factories mark their produce with a special, chemical marker, that would be able to tell us, if it was ours or not. It was useful when it came to investigations pertaining warcrimes, believe me that.
"...and that it's not ours, which blew up the Al'Arz.", I added, "And attach the test results, maybe they can find out, where it came from."
"And these agents from the MND?", one asked.
"A seperate message to the MND. Thanks and we are looking into it.", I said, glad for the reminder.

To:

Field Agent Elijah Kamski, Central Intelligence Agency.

From:

Captain Ilia Jamkiya, Chandshar.

Subject:

Joint Encryption.

We will see.

Have fun in Motya,

Ilia Jamkiya,
Chandshar.

Al'Arz.
Indeed - not that Lina were familiar with Kyrenaian road rules, but what she could tell, was that the traffic went surprisingly orderly. In general, she hadn't really heard much on Kyrenaians being particularly bad drivers.
On the contrary, they seemed to be commendable by Lillorainian standards, making way for emergency vehicles and generally trying to keep the traffic flowing. Lillos and Shamsiyyans alike were much speed-freaks - yet, while Lillorainen also provided the infrastructure to go fast where appropriate, the Shamsiyyan road system had seen little love in the past and was yet catching up, the result often being somewhat chaotic, yet all in all still safe (exceptions confirm the rule). Shikonjimanese were quite passive drivers ... sometimes even dangerously passive.
Dschafar knew what he was doing. Lina felt safe and comfortable - she didn't even bother watching the speedometer.
To his question, Lina replied, "Now, that was a sheer coincidence ... you must know, that my hometown is a major tourist hotspot, thus, meeting people from all over the nation isn't exactly unlikely. I was at the Wittwerder Marina on that day, a hot summer day by our standards, two years ago, to inspect a new class of speedboats recently finished. After that, I went to a beach bar to have some drink - and Sera was there as well. I recognized her at once, for she isn't exactly totally unknown where we're from."
She let a beat pass.
"Now, we got into a chat - she said, that she were on a vacation trip, and as we got along well, I offered her to lead her around a bit, for as a local, I was, of course, a bit more familiar with what's around. She agreed, and we had a few awesome days - I felt closer to her than to anyone else, and once upon a given night ... well, it just came over us."
She smiled, shrugging.
"Yeah, and there we go" - she finished.

Headquarters of the MND FL, Northern Section, Saskilde.
With their last message to the Chandshar, the MND Agents were well aware how much of panic would be circulating now, at least amongst the Lillorainian part of the investigative squad formed of more and more agencies.
The Chandshar's concerns weren't any less understandable. The Kyrenaian ban on private gun ownership had the inconvenient side effect of not managing to hinder criminals from acquiring guns nonetheless. Smuggling was a serious problem, not only in Kyrenaia - in Lillorainen, a country known for its notably more liberal gun laws, criminal organizations were still unlikely to get their equipment from the gun store around the corner as well, but rather from those imports that were not officially declared and registered. Shamsiyya, their policy based on certain old traditions, had a similar issue. - Then again, both countries were also a bit more likely to be the original country of 'opinion amplifiers' being traded on the black market abroad ...
"So, the black market it is then ..." - Agent Nygaard murmured. "It shouldn't be too hard to find out where the stuff went to."
"Oh, don't underestimate them" - Wellem contradicted, "they do have their ways. Now, so far, there are no results found in Stella Dorata - well, except for some MJR rifles going to certain resistance groups, but they look unlikely to be associated with anything we can work with right now. Also no results found in Shikonjima, the UMA, or the United Confederacy - especially the latter surprises me. Freie Stadt Wiedheim, Nijerigon, Velika Sosnica, Lundøya ... nothing."
"Not even our favorite banana republic ...?" - Majström wondered. "I don't trust their El Presidente a lot. Or anybody in Miranueva, or the Costa Cálida in general - or Lahaina, or Kalaʻolawe. Not even their bar ladies."
"I checked them thoroughly, and so did the Almukhabarat - no results from the U.C." - said Wellem.
"And Lutetii?"
"Nothing, either, despite being another special candidate - but I might leave them to the Ionchoisne, for they might have more of a clue."
"Hmm ... maybe some other place nobody even thought about yet?" - Nygaard wondered.
"Possibly ... but one thing's for sure" - Majström said, "according to the Chandshar's information, the Octogen used was definitely not of Kyrenaian origin! The test results are available - they use a pretty unique chemical makeup, including a marker making it easily identifiable."
"So it could be from Lillorainen, or Shamsiyya ..."
"Most certainly. Maybe even both - a mix of them. I'll send the exact list of chemical markers both our countries use to the Chandshar. Maybe it matches - and maybe, they find some traces of it on their own black market - or one of a different country we currently lack insight in ..."

[AHSCA]

Utica Air Base.
Fatima nodded.
"Understood. Please, this way.", she said and opened the rear door, "I'll call ahead."
A few minutes later, they were underway, the panorama of Utica passing in front of the windows. Marcella sat in the spacious rear with Fatima, while in the front, another Handmaiden sat behind the wheel and Asuna next to her.
It would take a bit, so if Marcella had questions, Fatima would be there.

Captain Ilia Jamkiya.
Hangar at Utica Air Base.
I nodded at the Col... dang, this woman looked a lot like Colonel Arán. It would take getting used to it...
"I understand, Captain Heidemann.", I said and thought for a moment, then had an idea. "Say, how well are your people with treatment of psychological traumas? I think, that we could use that over at the HGA..."

Marcella and Asuna sliding into the car the long trip was going to be just nervous anticipation if Marcella didn't talk. "Fatima. Well....How have you and the Prince been? Otherwise? Maybe not a good time to talk small talk but besides today I just hope you and him have been doing well."



Felicia paused a moment thinking about the question. Tough one for sure but she came out honestly, "I'll admit, we don't have any professional training when it comes to psychology. But that said we do our best to comfort those who are afraid and upset. The aftermath of something like a hurricane, it's easy for young children to be seperated from their families, for example, and left in our care we do what we can until they can be returned. If we can give just a little bit, we'll do what we can. "

[Kyrenaia]

On the streets towards the Utica Military Hospital.
Dschafar nodded as she told the story, his main focus was on the road. It would be rather shameful, if he made an accident while carrying a passenger, which a Princess asked him to take.
Or worse, if he or said passenger were hurt even in the slightest.
"A nice story. I can understand, why you are so attached to her.", he told Lina, "It actually reminds me a bit of how I met an ex-girlfriend of mine."
They made good progress.

Headquarters of the Chandshar.
Lieutenant Amir Alnnayib.
The MND was so nice to send us their own data about their own chemical markers for comparison and the analysis was still ongoing - but there was still the matter of the Anti-Ship Missiles. Our friends from the Ionchoisne, the absolutely unexpected Selkie-Inquisition, were almost running amok in their area of responsibility and had all the support SDY could offer.
And they had much ground to cover and to work with, many people to investigate.
There was a bit of a lead already, though: The missiles vanished from the stockpiles of SDY with the authorization of an employee, that was found dead a day after he had given said authorization. The footage from CCTV at the underground warehouse did not reveal anything interesting either.
We had professionals against us.
But only three? Why not more? The truck they used would easily been capable of carrying at least twice the amount! So maybe other freight, too? SDY was running through its entire stockpiles of missiles, drones, aircraft, even small vessels (like Majestic-class boats), which they kept on stock.
So far, no luck.
Ugh... this was slowing down too much... if only Captain Jamkiya would be here... he would be able to make sense of everything...
Moping didn't help. Do or die was the command of the hour!
It was heartening to see, that the Sultanate had friends, which would easily come to its aid, like Lillorainen, Shamsiyya, the Free Lands, Kuronami and the UIS... it made me hope for the future.
Now... there was another matter. The CIA Agent, which the Empire sent... we had to entertain that chap. Luckily, we had a busty aide on staff with excellent abilities as a tea-maker to take care of exactly such situations.
We were ordered by Captain Jamkiya to park him in a conference room and entertain him that way, if he arrived before he returned. He wanted to brief and introduce that man to his job himself.
Whatever the job would be.

Captain Ilia Jamkiya.
Hangar at Utica Air Base.
I smiled at Heidemann.
"Very good. We are in a similar situation anyway, with the HGA being a boarding school and some of the parents living literally on the other end of the country.", I said and turned as motor vehicles approached. "The cars are here."
Indeed, entering the hangar were three cars, mid-sized and in different colours, but with darkened windows. They had large boots, though, which was certainly an advantage, and the license plates were all vastly different, too. The Chandshar was not an organization to abide by the cliche of the black limousine.
I clapped my hands to get everyone's attention.
"Alright, everyone, the rides are here.", I declared, "Those of you, who are going to the Al'Arz, the red car. Those to the HGA, the yellow car. And those to the headquarters, the green car." That was another reason: It made such things easier. "Let's get movin'!"

Leaving Utica Air Base.
The trip would not be too long, Fatima hoped.
She nodded at Marcella's words. "Up until now, we have all been fine. A bit of stress around the throne anniversary this year, but we managed. Prince Damir made a few diplomatic trips, as did Princess Aurelia with him. He is currently on one, without Aurelia, some boring work visit." I leaned over. "From what I heard, his Handmaiden had to violently restrain him from rushing back home!"

[Lillorainen]

On the streets towards the Utica Military Hospital.
Dschafar nodded as she told the story, his main focus was on the road. It would be rather shameful, if he made an accident while carrying a passenger, which a Princess asked him to take.
Or worse, if he or said passenger were hurt even in the slightest.
"A nice story. I can understand, why you are so attached to her.", he told Lina, "It actually reminds me a bit of how I met an ex-girlfriend of mine."
They made good progress.

Headquarters of the Chandshar.
Lieutenant Amir Alnnayib.
The MND was so nice to send us their own data about their own chemical markers for comparison and the analysis was still ongoing - but there was still the matter of the Anti-Ship Missiles. Our friends from the Ionchoisne, the absolutely unexpected Selkie-Inquisition, were almost running amok in their area of responsibility and had all the support SDY could offer.
And they had much ground to cover and to work with, many people to investigate.
There was a bit of a lead already, though: The missiles vanished from the stockpiles of SDY with the authorization of an employee, that was found dead a day after he had given said authorization. The footage from CCTV at the underground warehouse did not reveal anything interesting either.
We had professionals against us.
But only three? Why not more? The truck they used would easily been capable of carrying at least twice the amount! So maybe other freight, too? SDY was running through its entire stockpiles of missiles, drones, aircraft, even small vessels (like Majestic-class boats), which they kept on stock.
So far, no luck.
Ugh... this was slowing down too much... if only Captain Jamkiya would be here... he would be able to make sense of everything...
Moping didn't help. Do or die was the command of the hour!
It was heartening to see, that the Sultanate had friends, which would easily come to its aid, like Lillorainen, Shamsiyya, the Free Lands, Kuronami and the UIS... it made me hope for the future.
Now... there was another matter. The CIA Agent, which the Empire sent... we had to entertain that chap. Luckily, we had a busty aide on staff with excellent abilities as a tea-maker to take care of exactly such situations.
We were ordered by Captain Jamkiya to park him in a conference room and entertain him that way, if he arrived before he returned. He wanted to brief and introduce that man to his job himself.
Whatever the job would be.

Captain Ilia Jamkiya.
Hangar at Utica Air Base.
I smiled at Heidemann.
"Very good. We are in a similar situation anyway, with the HGA being a boarding school and some of the parents living literally on the other end of the country.", I said and turned as motor vehicles approached. "The cars are here."
Indeed, entering the hangar were three cars, mid-sized and in different colours, but with darkened windows. They had large boots, though, which was certainly an advantage, and the license plates were all vastly different, too. The Chandshar was not an organization to abide by the cliche of the black limousine.
I clapped my hands to get everyone's attention.
"Alright, everyone, the rides are here.", I declared, "Those of you, who are going to the Al'Arz, the red car. Those to the HGA, the yellow car. And those to the headquarters, the green car." That was another reason: It made such things easier. "Let's get movin'!"

Leaving Utica Air Base.
The trip would not be too long, Fatima hoped.
She nodded at Marcella's words. "Up until now, we have all been fine. A bit of stress around the throne anniversary this year, but we managed. Prince Damir made a few diplomatic trips, as did Princess Aurelia with him. He is currently on one, without Aurelia, some boring work visit." I leaned over. "From what I heard, his Handmaiden had to violently restrain him from rushing back home!"

On the streets towards the Utica Military Hospital.
Lina nodded, having to smile.
Of course, she was aware, that Dschafar was primarily patting attention on the road in order to get her to the hospital as a visitor and not as another patient, and she wouldn't have expected anything else.
She looked around onto the road, too, and couldn't spot any particular possible danger as of now, so she said, "Yes, it's one of the usual, almost stereotypical episodes as to how people in a relationship usually get to know each other, now isn't it?"
She let a beat pass.
"The one ex-boyfriend in my record was one from school, though. Another usual way." She shrugged.

Headquarters of the MND FL, Northern Section, Saskilde.
Unbeknownst to either of both, Majström and Alnnayib thought alike - this was slowing down too much. Three missiles were missing, and nobody on this damn planet had any evidence as to where they could be now. Not to forget all the Octogen missing besides these, an amount one could do a lot with. A lot of very horrible things.
Gods ... if only some higher-up genius from Freudenberg could be here now ... Majström, with all experience he had, would have been thankful for any assistance now, no matter if from the Federal HQ, or from Shamsiyya, or Ahjada, or even Kekistan or Wanne-Eickel. But sadly, he had to keep this running on his own. And he would.
"We have a match!" - Nygaard suddenly said.
Majström looked up. "A match?"
"Yes. A load of Octogen with a Kyrenaian marker was found during an attempt of an attack in the city center of Kirajevo in Kongsöer, only two months ago. A bottle of it, along with an igniter that could be activated by remote trigger, was found in a trash can near the tram station of Petković Square. Luckily, it didn't detonate - I don't think I need to be too detailed on what would have happened, if it had."
Majström nodded, knowing the Petković Square. It was one of the busiest places in Kirajevo.
"And we have yet another match - the legendary Bruckweiler-Tunnel!" - Wellem now reported. Everyone knew what was meant: only a month ago, it had been reported, that a gang of bank robbers had spent several months digging a tunnel from an underground carpool to the vault room of the Bruckweiler Bank, a private bank in the city of Sandscheid, Fylerian Free State. Eventually, they had gotten in, using Octogen to free their way to the cash down there - Kyrenaian Octogen, as it turned out now.
"And remember whom we had on our list of suspects!" - Wellem continued.
"You're still thinking of Amarin, yes?"
"He would entirely make sense" - said Wellem. "Timur Sambuu Amarin, 1977-vintage, born in the Sharulsi Khanate, raised in the City of Toriyama, Shikonjima. Served as an agent for various Shikonjimanese intelligence agencies, before he became a known supporter of various nationalist and traditionalist organizations - including the LDF here in Lillorainen. He has lived in the Federation since 2006, he had contact to Seitz and Pressler, he was seen by eyewitnesses in Sandscheid multiple times - and he needs cash."
"And he has left the Federation three weeks ago" - Nygaard added. "According to our knowledge, he now officially resides in the Free City of Wiedheim. District of Kronberg. But it's also possible, that he left the place again."
"The colleagues in Wiedheim might tell us" - Wellem said. "They are experts on collecting data - on a level that makes me respect them. One could even get jealous a bit."
"Luckily, we have good contacts there, too!" - Majström said. "Lehmkühler and Ruppert are reliable colleagues. I will directly ask them - through the proper channels, of course. They should keep their eyes open. And, of course, the Chandshar will be interested in having a new name and face to have a check on."