A Messy Breakup (Private)

by **AHSCA** » Sun Jun 13, 2021 10:25 am

Good day, this is a Private RP with some friends of the UIS, you're welcome to read along but please do not post without an invite. Questions, comments or concerns, always free free to telegram me.

A big night ahead of the Duchess, with a visit from the Sultana of Kyrenaia. Honestly at this point, this was starting to feel like a last ditch effort to finally convince the old hag, that Aurelia and Marcella were meant to be together, should be together. But a lot of complicated politics were holding it up, frankly more on the Sultanate’s end than AHSCA’s end, but it’s not as though there weren’t critics of Marcella naysaying a relationship with a foreign Princess. Marcella’s father, George was from common lineage so it made it less complicated in setting up the dynasty of AHSCA at the birth of what is now the UIS in the days after the war, but should Marcella find herself sharing the court of a foreign monarch, what would that mean for the future of the UIS. Nobody said being Duchess was easy, being given the title at such a young age by her respected and beloved mother. What would happen if either were ask to abdicate their positions? For Marcella if she did she could pass along the title to her younger sister, Gisella but Gisella was still young, hardly ready to take the throne on a whim, so that would pass along to the next highest government rank and so on and so forth. But the Nanao-Villa line had been ruling these islands for over a 100 years, what would happen if she did that? Yes, the theory was there but the practice wasn’t something she was sure she dared put to use, not with others really vying for power.

The militant junta that ruled Stillestando since the collapse of that state’s attempt at a local democracy, was all too eager to grab the throne for themselves. That would certainly plunge the nation into civil war and open the door for other nations like Stevid from coming in to pick up the pieces with a big "see, we told ya so" There was already a land rush in the Craxx archipelago by AHSCA’s neighbors so no, the UIS was too fragile for that option. Abroad, the biggest obstacle as far as Marcella was concerned was the Sultana and that lead to some very dark thoughts to cross her mind; namely having her newly christened Shadow Knights take the old duft out. An old lady could simply slip quietly in the night, who would really think anything of it? But that could have a lot of really bad blowback if it ever got back to Marcella that she ordered the assassination of a siting Monarch, even if they could make it look like no foul play was at hand.

Marcella contemplated all these thoughts as she was being prepped for this evening’s dinner at the Ducal Palace, being dressed by her handmaiden in a fancy modern gown, pink as the hair from her head, frilly as can be elaborate as can be.

“Last stich, Milady.” Her handmaiden Yoshi said to her to get her to raise her arm.

“It looks perfect already.” Marcella said flatly.

“Cheer up, Milady. Whatever happens, happens, the Goddesses will look after you as they always have. Even if this isn’t meant to be.”

“I suppose so.”

“All set. Come, I’m sure your guests will be arriving any moment.”

Marcella nodded, this was a state visit but she knew without a doubt Aurelia would come up and their relationship. Well it was now or never. Flanking her was Noir, her foreign officer, her two guards, Asuna and Sayaka, “Milady, I have everything set.” Noir said but Marcella kept her gaze forward. “I think it should be a simple meeting, just a reaffirming of terms we have laid out since your last visit to the Sultanate.”

“We’ll see.”

The walk from Marcella’s bed chamber to the office was quick but it rather felt like an eternity as Marcella’s mind raced with how to conduct herself should the worse really happen. With her two guards posted outside to await the arrivals, Noir and Marcella discussed matters a bit further.

“Of course you as the Duchess you have the final say about how foreign relations go but are you sure you’d want to go that far?”

“Well it is something I’ve been thinking about…”

A knock on the door as it was opened. Asuna announced “The Kyrenaian delegation, Milady.”

“Thank you, Asuna.”

Led by the Sultana herself, the small group entered – there was Aurelia's father and stepmother, Prince Damir and Princess Yasmin, there was Azad Safir, the Vizier responsible for foreign affairs, there were a couple of Kyrenaian Handmaidens... and there was Aurelia. For some reason, she didn't dare to look at Marcella. Once the door was closed, Marcella curtsied.

“It’s a pleasure to have you here at last.” She greeted with all the politeness she could muster. Aurelia was here so that also meant she had to restrain herself from throwing herself upon her and doing god knows what, hopefully time for that later if they’d stay a while. “It’s truly an honor, won’t you please sit? I can have Yoshi bring you anything you’d like, tea, water, coffee, other beverage or food if you desire? ”

“Thank you,” The Sultana said as she, as the only one, sat down, “I believe I shall pass.”

“Very well.” Marcella said taking a seat and offering it up for the rest. “Ahem. So Milady, Sultana,” Marcella continued to conduct business, “I trust we wanted to go over the latest in our joint military cooperative. Or perhaps you’d like to discuss trade and tariffs?”

“Marcella-Khana.” The Sultana spoke. “I am afraid, that we first need to take care of another business, one more private – the issue of you and my granddaughter.”

“Milady Sultana, I know of your past feelings on this matter, as my Dear Aurelia came to me during the festival a couple years ago saying you felt as such. Our jobs are not easy as Monarchs but as Aurelia also reminded me during the past festival in September, we also have the advantage of not being subject to the whims of an electorate…”

The Sultana interrupted Marcella in the middle of the sentence; “What she did not tell you was, that we, too, cannot rule without support. And we still have our own Houses to manage. You with yours, we with ours. I know the two of you are close and I was willing to put up with it but the whispers are growing more and more out of hand. I have to put my foot down and force this to an end.” She raised a finger. “But I’m not unreasonable. The two of you can maintain a friendship, if that is, what you wish. Though only as friends.”

“Friends are friends but at this point the distance is starting to take a toll. I’d hope to potentially make Aurelia my Duchess Consort in the near future.”
The Sultana's eyebrow twitched and Aurelia swallowed hard, as Marcella continued to hopefully give her persuasive arguments to the Sultana about why a marriage would be beneficial. “Would it not strengthen the ties of our two nations to have it that way? You have a trusted friend in Greater Dienstad, as you know, home to many powerful nations.”
Oooh, that might have sounded like a threat which made Marcella choke her words a bit “In-Influential, that is. Power in influence, wealth and trade and we have you a reliable partner for security and defense—“

“My dear... the UIS is a culturally rich and beautiful place, that is for certain.”, the Sultana replied, “But powerful it is not. The UIS neither has the economic nor is the military power to command the respect you claim to have among the nations of Greater Dienstad – to my understanding, the UIS, among them, considered a poor backwater at the edge of the world.”

Noir’s eyes widened and her pupils dilated, now this was starting to feel a bit personal. Her expression changed as her mouth curved and a little fanged tooth made itself visible. Marcella continued the conversation, increasingly working to keep her temper in check.

“S-Sultana, I…” It was a bit hard to argue with, AHSCA wasn’t a superpower, it had ties to nations like Mokastana and Lamoni, but nobody could consider AHSCA much of a broker of power, hell, it’d had yet to even join GD’s regional council.

“There are other issues, Duchess. Among other things, it’s simply improper. That, in turn, causes strife within our own houses of nobility, the people themselves are torn and I’ll admit, that I wish my granddaughter happiness, but not in the arms of another woman.” The Sultana let a beat pass. “Additionally, Kyrenaia was hit hard by COVID. The Sultanate must stand strong, with faith and confidence in itself and in its leaders – it can't stand strong when divided and it can't stand strong under a Sultana, who can't even keep her own family in line.” The Sultana leaned back. “And while I could be persuaded to see more advantages in such a relationship, you are the Duchess of the UIS, Marcella, hardly of a powerful or influential nation or of a proper lineage.”

“That’s it!” Marcella jumped from her chair. “I’ve heard enough, you old hag!” Noir’s eyes went wide, for Marcella to break decorum and court manners like that, was unheard of. “If that’s the way you feel about my country, about my family, than I don’t see a future between us. If you weren’t a foreign guest of state, I’d be just as glad to have you sent to our prison island to never be heard from again, but as you are, all I can do this: You are hereby declared a persona non grata!”

The Sultana still sat, unperturbed and shook her head.

“You certainly have a bit of fire.”, she said and rose, “As ruler of a sovereign nation, it is of course your prerogative to demand that of us, but I thought better of you, Young Duchess.” She looked Marcella up and down. “You have a lot to learn still – among other things to keep your temper in check.” Exhaling, she added: “We will make our departure now. I’m sorry it had to end like this.”

The doors opened. “Asuna, Sayaka, see to it the delegation are returned to their ship and see to it they depart the UIS safely.”

“Yes Milady. Follow us please.” Asuna urged them to come along.

The Sultana bowed her head lightly, as did the others, but Marcella was glad, that she did not see into Aurelia's eyes – if she did, she would have seen shock and anger and fright and utter, simple hate. Fighting back tears and frustration, once they were out of the room, Marcella couldn’t help but kick the desk. Hard to believe she was the descendant of a woman who was so feared in this part of the world that she could do anything. But times changed, Marcella, AHSCA they were specs in a sea of competing superpowers. Truth was, AHSCA probably need Kyrenaia more than the vice versa.

“I suppose that could have gone better.” Noir shook her head in disappointment.

“Noir…”

“Uh, yes Milady?”

“Draft up the papers. We are ending our relationship with the Sultanate. The embassy will be closed, their military base vacated and remaining envoys sent home.”

“As you wish.”

“Further…”

“Uh, yes?”

“Get a network going. Shadow Knights, I want them to begin ops there.”

“Milady—“

“Just to keep tabs on them, nothing more.”

“Yes Milady.”

Noir was left to do her thing, while Marcella simply watched the rain fall from her window. It was over. Just like that, hard to believe. Aurelia was someone special, there’d never be a girl quite like her, but if that’s what it was, that’s what it was. Hours passed. Night fell by the light of the alcohol lamp on her desk she looked over the original deal they hashed out years ago. Next to her was the official documents that would make this happen.

By Decree of Her Royal Highness, Duchess Marcella Villa
The UIS and the Sultanate of Kyrenaia hereby terminate diplomatic relationships and military alliances going forward. AHSCA’s Embassy in the Sultanate shall be closed effective immediately and all diplomatic and security staff shall be returned home. Vice versa, The Sultanate’s embassy in AHSCA shall also be shuttered upon the same conditions along with the military station on Aurora Island and all staff therein shall also be returned home.

With a heavy heart, she signed the papers with one swift stroke of her pen. Admittedly now, it was starting to get to her, she was feeling stupid, foolish, childish but what else could she do, no way they'd take her back now after her outburst. Sitting alone again with the faint dim lantern light burning on her desk a soft knock at her door. "Your mother, Milady"

"Mama...?"

Her mother Shino. Right now, she could hardly face a lecture from her but Shino's eyes weren't of contempt or disappointment for her daughter, just sympathy and empathy. "So, you lost your temper with the Sultana."

"I did. I know the papers will be all over me in the morning. But what difference does it make. If they want let them have my crown or whatever else. Doesn't matter anymore."

"My dear, I love you dearly, don't you think you're being dramatic for a girl?"

"It's not just that. It's my outburst. I can't believe I let my self get so worked up like that. I do love Aurelia but I also thought I could maintain my composure always even in the face of pressure. What good am I as a Duchess? Even if things change, I'm not cut out for this. Imagine me negotiating something more important."

"Oh my dear, you come from a long line of emotional silly women who are all just overly romantic and sentimental for their own good. Me, your grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother before were all the same. We have deceptively short fuses to us at times and we fly off the handle at inopportune times. You'll pick yourself up and work through this. I wish I could say a fairy tale ending was in the cards for you, that the Sultana will change her mind but I do not know about that. It may never change or come to pass even with time. In time Aurelia may even be married off to someone else out of necessity."

"I know." Marcella didn't want to admit it, but it was likely. "But how can I get over her? She was my first love..."

"Firsts are always special. I know."

"But in the end you got to be with papa."

"I did but he wasn't my first."

"Huh?" Marcella looked up at her mother, this was news to her. For as long as she's known her parents it always seemed like by all the graces of Heaven they were destined to be together.

"You remember Schala."

"The former Queen of Stillestando, yeah..."

"Believe it or not, she was my first."

"Mama..."

"This was before the war, going back to when we were both young monarchs of our respective islands. It was a big reason why I wanted to push to unify the islands as a monarchy. To be honest, I really thought she'd be given the title but--"

"But she was killed in the war."

"Mmmm not quite."

"Not quite?"

"Things were so unsettled after the war and given Stillestando was more or less the triggering point for everything, she decided it was best to quietly abdicate."

"I don't understand though, why?"

"My dear, that's getting off topic here, you can find her and ask her yourself some time for now let me continue. Schala was my first love, I wanted to be with her. And well like you, I was in the same predicament. Mother, that is your grandmother, would not have it. Given I was the only daughter, abdicating was out of the question for me, and when she died and I was thrusted into the throne for Aurora but of course by that time she also had married herself."

"You never thought of it? Neither of you?"

"Sure we did but, we were duty bound. So we tried to change from within. Unify the islands as a nation instead of the conquering your ancestor Tamura did. Of course you know where that went."

"But after the war, why not get with her?"

"You know how unstable things were, we were a new nation. As a prisoner I was made leader in abstentia. People looked to me as their symbol, their unifying figure. I couldn't imagine throwing that off after so much suffering and anguish so I quietly accepted it's just how things were. To better secure the nation, people felt I should have a partner, a husband ideally so I could begin a dynasty to continue the Nanao line. But I decided instead I'd make it more interesting. So I put out an open marriage call and you know the rest."

"Does...Does papa know this?"

"I don't know to be honest. I rather hope he doesn't. I don't want him thinking I settled. I love him, dearly, with all my heart. Wit him, I got you, and your sister, my two beautiful daughters. A man that I rely on and hold. I'm a coward obviously. Afraid of something as silly as thunder and haunted by my time as a captive. Through the nightmares, through the fear, he's always been there for me. That's what it means to have someone you love. That's what I'm getting at. Schala is-was-a lovely woman, I would have liked to have been with her but I have no regrets about ending up with George. Aurelia is a lovely woman, it'd make me happy to see you two together as a couple. But don't feel like there won't be another special someone out there for you as well. Just as I found the same joy and happiness with your papa, you might find it with someone else as well. Or fortunes will change and you will be with Aurelia. Either way, wait and see what Heaven brings upon you, my dear."

"Mmmm."

"I'm going on home."

"Right. Good night."

"Good night. Think about what I said."

She was left alone again with her thoughts before long it was time to put herself to bed. Well what was done was done, all that can be done was let the fallout settle then consider if it was worth picking up the pieces. Aurelia was special but her mother had a good point, if not Aurelia there could be someone else out there for her, not a replacement of course. Well her pride wouldn't let her face the Sultana right now but maybe at least she could apologize to Aurelia. But chances are her mail would be censored if she did, she really didn't know so she got a little clever with it, disgusing it as a piece of fan mail. Aurelia did have her admirers among young women in the UIS so with enough clever visuals, the envelop read,

Princess Aurelia Fan Club of AHSCA

but inside the contents were:

Dear Aurelia,

I'm really sorry about the way things went with your grandmother's visit to the UIS. I really do feel foolish about my outburst and about maybe jumping the gun by ending things. You are important to me, I suspect you always will be but I guess the Heavens will not bless us so to be together. Mother told me a rather long story that I don't want to get into here that put things into perspective for me, I hope things will be the same with you. Whatever happens in the future, happens. For now, I think it is best to let the dust settle and put this behind us. I'm sorry, really sorry that I'm such a little hot head.

All my love,
Marcella

Maybe she should have coded it but for now she did just let it act as a mini Trojan horse.

by **Kyrenaia** » Sun Jun 13, 2021 10:33 am

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Aboard the Yacht Rashiq.
Marcella had planned to marry me and now...
While we had been escorted from the Ducal Palace back to the harbour, where Grandmother's favourite Yacht, the cruise liner sized vessel Rashiq, waited, she had already spoken orders into her telephone. We were officially unwanted in the UIS now and we would not overstay our welcome.
...and now...
Upon boarding, we had been welcomed back aboard by an armed crew, heavy submachine guns at the ready, from the Handmaidens to literally the First Officer. We had gotten underway half an hour later, steaming for the open ocean.
...and now...
Grandmother had barked orders, both at the crew, into a radio set, at my Father, at ben Sahid, at Lady Fara, at almost everyone. She was livid. One did not throw out a Sultana of Kyrenaia, not as the head of state of a little boger on a map, were her words. She needed to get it out of her system and to be frank, no one was happy.
...and now...
I had slunk away. My moment under the limelight that were the anger-powered searchlights which were the eyes of my Grandmother would come soon enough. I had retreated into my suite, Sarina giving me space, my Personal Handmaiden seeing in my eyes, that I needed time.
...and now...
...and now I had ripped off the dress, which I had worn, it was in tatters on the ground somewhere in the anteroom to my bedroom, I myself was on my bed, snuggled into Aldhiyb, who did his furred best to keep me company, his fur soaking up my tears, he himself licking away any tears, which had escaped.
I had bawled my eyes out.
It felt as if my heart had been ripped out of my chest and crushed under the heels of others for their benefit, for the second time in my life. At the same time, I had not cried like this ever since the day Mother died.
It felt similar.
I had loved Marcella. Still did, actually, no matter what my Grandmother decreed. She knew of the love we had shared, of our feelings and passion, she had acknowledged them as real... I had hoped, that she had finally come around, would push for a change in the Law of Marriage as well, would allow me to marry Marcella by Kyrenaian Rite as well...
...the whispers Grandmother had spoken of, to me, they were said to my face.
...the Sultanate had indeed been hit hard by the Pandemic and while we had a handle on things, we had been divided for a while. A House divided can not stand. My Heart and its 'escapades' certainly had not helped to keep a united front. A Sultana, who demonstrated power by ripping apart the heart of a young woman, who kept her House in check, would win brownie points with some. Brownie points, which she desperately needed, I knew that.
And if it meant sacrificing my happiness, then she would do it.
I would understand it one day, she would say, in the kind and gentle way only a Grandmother could muster.
Bullshit.
A knock on the door made me pull Aldhiyb closer. Was I summoned?
Dad entered after half a minute of no reply.
He was silent, most likely presuming, that I was asleep, crouched half-down as he slunk into my view. He had shed the suit jacket and the tie, and he looked a bit ruffled, but when he looked into my eyes, he looked, for a moment, like a kid caught with his hand in the cookie jar.
Then he rose from his crouch and sat down on the bed.
“Hey.”, he said, reaching out and wiping a strand of hair from my face. “I wanted to check up on you.”
“And see if I can face the Old Dreadnought?”, I replied. There was anger in my voice, I knew that, and I did not care.
Dad was silent.
“I convinced your Grandmother, that she should leave you in peace for now. We all know, that words would be said, which we would come to regret.”, he told me, “She wants to speak with you tomorrow morning, right for the morning tea. She is currently busy barking a press release into a telephone. You know much she takes insults like that to her heart.” He sighed. “Thank your Uncle the next time you see him.”
I nodded.
“We are approaching international waters, too.”, he said, “Ilia said, that we will meet a cruiser soon, the Shaear. She will escort us home... sprinting to join us at 34 knots.”
I gave a tired smile at imagining the feeling.
But I was also silent.
Dad was silent.
His hand softly stroked my cheek, but suddenly, stopped.
“You know... Grandmother, Jida, once told me something.”, he began, “She told me, that she only married into the family, that she was an outsider from the very beginning... and still was. Because everyone was.” He let a beat pass. “Everyone was, and is, a lost, lonely, irrelevant outsider... apart from one person, the only person, that matters. She is the oxygen we all breathe, the essence of our duty...” He exhaled. “I was nineteen at the time, so of course I did not understand. But today, I think I understand.”
“That we are all irrelevant, when it comes to the will of Grandmother?”, I asked.
“No, not the will of your Grandmother or my Mother.”, Dad replied, sadness in his voice, “The will of the Sultana. For it is also the Will of the Sultanate.” He exhaled. “Half a billion people... what is the personal happiness of one man or one woman compared to their wellbeing? Ours is to rule, to lead... and for it, ours is to sacrifice.”
I was silent, before I replied: “Wait, you were nineteen?”
“Yes.”, Dad said, with a bit of finality. “And yes... that was shortly before your birth, actually.” He looked down, at his shoes, smiled. “Though I doubt, that she would have accepted... can you see your Mother as a Kyrenaian Princess?”
I had to snort at the mental image.
“Exactly.”, he said and took a deep breath, steadied himself. He turned to me, bend down and kissed me on the temple. “For now, however, sleep, Aurelia. May Ea watch over you.”
He made to rise, I grabbed his hand.
“...can you stay for a while?”, I asked of him.
He nodded.
He nodded off first, sitting on the edge of my bed, before I fell asleep. When I woke up the next morning, however, my Dad had covered me and Aldhiyb and made off.

Official Press Release of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia

On the matter of the sudden end of the State Visit of Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad to the United Island States of AHSCA and the sudden end of the diplomatic relations between the UIS and the Sultanate:
In the Name of 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 honoured to publish this message.
As it is public knowledge, Princess Aurelia bint-Damir, the Beyeha of Malakiard, is in a relationship with Duchess Marcella Villa of the United Island States of AHSCA. Extensive press coverage from both reliable and unreliable sources had speculated about the course the Sultana will take in regards to that relationship during the state visit.
The Sultana, as Matriarch of Her House and Grandmother of Princess Aurelia, decided to dissolve the relationship peacefully for a number of reasons. This decision came with a heavy heart and with the knowledge, that it would cause much pain to all involved. However, the Sultana also allowed the two to remain friends.
In response, Duchess Marcella, mixing personal issues and her duties as Head of State, ended all diplomatic relations between the UIS and the Sultanate, expelled the Kyrenaian Ambassadorial Mission and the Party of the Sultana, as well as called upon the Sultanate to dissolve Naval Base Mokastana Northeast.
The Sultanate does not conduct politics, and least of all foreign politics, in the bedroom. However, it is the right and prerogative of a sovereign ruler to demand these steps. Within the coming forty-eight (48) hours, the Kyrenaian Ambassadorial Mission will depart the UIS and within the next seventy-two (72) hours, Naval Base Mokastana Northeast will be closed, its facilities rendered unusable. The Rashiq, the personal vessel of the Sultana, is already on her way back home and has already arrived in International Waters.
The Sultanate deeply regrets, that the UIS had to take these steps. However, the Sultanate also reaffirms the Guarantees given on the 27th of November 2017.

For all communication by state-actors, please send your messages to:
Azad Safir, Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Qaleatan Maktab, Utica, Ilkhanate of Utica, Sultanate of Kyrenaia.
For all communication by non-state-actors and press, please send your messages to:
Public Relations Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sub-Department 01, Qaleatan Maktab, Utica, Ilkhanate of Utica, Sultanate of Kyrenaia.
As usual, messages sent to the wrong recipient will not be replied to!

by **Astares Amauricanum** » Mon Jun 14, 2021 6:36 am

Astares Keiserlig Office
Silver Palace, Columbia District

"Well, Marcella has balls, I'll give her that." says Anna with a sigh as she crosses her arms. Back from a war and we don't even have time to settle before things get heated up elsewhere. thinks the Keisaerina. Next to her, and judging by his facial expression, her husband must be thinking the same.

Sitting down at their desk in their official Office, the Imperial Couple had just come back a few days ago from another deployment in the ongoing Geonal War. But as they were getting back in their old routine as Heads of State in the Astarian capital, thundering news were brought to them: Marcella Villa, the current Duchess of the United Island States of AHSCA, had chosen to purely and simply end all relations with the Sultanate of Kyrenaia, apparently on the fact the current Sultana, Razia, did not approve of the relation between her grandaughter, Princess Aurelia, and the Duchess.
Of course, things are always more complex tha just the news title, which is why Adrean and Anna had called in an emergency video meeting with the people that were or would be involved in the situation. Those people are:

Michael Foxter, Secretary of State
General Patrick Barrera, Secretary of Defense
Daniel Vincao, Astarian Ambassador to AHSCA, and his wife Patricia, both also being ACI agents.
Rear Admiral Owen McAwarall, Commander of the Islas Malditas Garrisons.
General Ronald Petraeus, Director of the Astares Centralis Intelligentsia.

"Maybe she has balls, but no one can deny her actions were foolish." says Michael from his office. "No one can deny the Sultana has some good reasons to end the relation between her grandaughter and the Duchess. The Sultanate is a bit divided as of now, and she needs to keep her ship afloat. She put it back on the right track after the Decolonization Wars, she does not want to see it sink again, especially for a reason coming from withint her own family no less."

"I agree Mike, but right now, what's done is done, there's no coming back." replies Patrick to his fellow Secretary. "We'll just have to live with the consequences. Admiral, did you spot anything unusual in your vicinity?" asks the SecDef to the Malditas Commander.

"Negative Sir." replies McAwarall with a sharp tone. "The Rashiq has swiftly gotten out of the UIS waters, and met with a cruiser, the Shaear, before starting to sail back to Kyrenaia. We are still monitoring the waters for any buildup of forces, but so far, I think that we may expect will just be their planes and ships going back home in the next days."

"Very well Admiral." replies Adrean. "However, as an additional precaution, I want you to put half of your long range, anti ship missile batteries on high alert until further notice. Get ready to unleash a storm should anything threaten the UIS. Is that clear?"

"Yes Your Majesty!" answers the Rear Admiral with a sharp nod and salute, before returning to a normal stance behind his desk on Adrean's computer screen.

"Aside from the military matter, we have also been told by our Liaison Officer Captain Akira Tomae that the Shadow Knights have been tasked by the Duchess to conduct an intelligence mission in the Sultanate, and establish a network there." continues Daniel, as he reads again the message that had been sent to him in the Embassy.

"Finally, seems like our pupils will get their baptism by fire." says Petraeus with a small smile as he rubs his chin. "I suppose that we'll be doing the SIGINT part as per our treaties."

"Indeed Sir." replies Daniel with a nod, before they both look deeply in their webcams, as if to look directly at Adrean and Anna if they had all been in the same room.

"Why are you looking at us like this?" asks the Keisaerina with a raised eyebrow. "We have a treaty established, we abide by it. If a problem arises later with Kyrenaia, we'll handle it when it comes."

"I would have said the same thing." adds the Keisaer with the same tone. "Anyway, now that we're all set, you all know what to do. Ronald, Daniel, prepare for the operation with the Shadow Knights. Michael, get the messages written and sent to us for approval. And Admiral, continue monitoring the situation."

"Aye Your Majesty." replies Owen. "Just to ask though, can we ask for the land of the now former Kyrenaian base? If we could position some Coast Guard units there for Search and Rescue, it would boost our capacities in the area, not to mention the influence even more with a direct foot in the UIS."

"We'll get on that in due time Admiral, don't worry." replies Adrean. "The last thing we want right now is to show our game to the Kyrenaians, and anger them. Stay put with your defense measures for now. You are all dismissed." finishes the Keisaer

"Aye!" answer all the men on his and Anna's screens, before shutting the off and going back to their tasks...

Official Press Release of the Department of State of the Federalis Imperium of Astares Amauricanum

On the matter of the sudden end of the diplomatic relations between the the United Island States of AHSCA and the Sultanate of Kyrenaia.

It has come to the attention of Their Imperial Majesties, Keisaer Adrean Blachkor and Keisaerina Anna Blachkor, and the Imperial Cabinet that the diplomatic relations between the UIS and the Sultanate have ended in a sudden manner, after a State Visit of the Sultana to the UIS, with said state visit also being suddenly ending.
While the Federalis Imperium will refrain from judging the reasons advanced by both sides to explain this sudden break, we can't help but feel sad that it had to end like this.
We will continue to collaborate with the UIS and the Sultanate on a number of issues, and by the will of Their Imperial Majesties, we stand at either's side disposal in case they wish to mediate the crisis.

Signed by Imperial Order
Michael Foxter
Secretary of State.

Also, a private message would be sent on Aurelia's phone...

Aurelia,

we heard what happen. Don't expect us to judge the situation or some political mumbo-jumbo, it's not our place to do that. We just want to tell you that we are sad that it happened, and we are sad for you as well. We don't know what will happen now, but know that if you need anything, whether it be a talk, a virtual hug or anything else, we'll be here for you. Not as Keisaer and Keisaerina, but as Adrean and Anna.

May Ymir watch over your dreams.

and a more official one to Marcella...

From:
Keisaer Adrean Blachkor
Keisaerina Anna Blachkor

To:
Duchess Marcella Villa of AHSCA

Encryption: Maximum

Dear Marcella,

we were told of the situation. While we will refrain from judging the reasons that led you to enact such a policy, we will just say it was quite a daring move to do so. Maybe a bit foolish, but what's done is done, there's no turning back.
Anyway, we will continue working with your nation as per the treaties we have signed, do not worry about that.
And finally, on a more private matter, we are sad that it had to happen between you and Aurelia. You two were such a nice couple.

Kind regards,
Adrean Blachkor
Anna Blachkor

by **Kyrenaia** » Mon Jun 14, 2021 10:24 am

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Aboard the Yacht Rashiq.
Next morning, my Dad had left me, covering me and Aldhiyb up.
Sarina had prepared tea and something for me to wear, something simple. The rather raunchy lace underwear went into the hamper... I had worn it for the time planned, where I had been alone with Marcella - a stab went through my heart.
I made myself presentable and left the bathroom, only to find Lady Fara sitting on the couch in the living room. She and Sarina were sitting there, drinking a cuppa and when she noticed me, she placed her cuppa back onto the saucer in a slow and deliberate move.
Lady Fara rose and bowed her head lightly.
"The Sultana expects you.", she spoke.
I nodded. "Then lead the way, please."
Sarina was behind me, when we departed. That was, what it felt like when one was being marched to the gallows, I think. The personal suites were relatively high up in the superstructure of the Rashiq, it was not much higher until we were on the Sun Deck.
Towards the bow, away from the smokestack, Grandmother sat at a small table. She was reading a newspaper, or rather a printout of a newspaper, a breakfast table prepared next to her. I knew, that it was scenery, much like the heavy missile cruiser near the horizon, our escort.
The Shaear, Sharaf-class Guided Missile Cruiser. 12,500 tons, 190 meters, nuclear powered, 365 officers and men aboard... I had toured her a few weeks ago with Uncle Ilia, she was a good ship at the head of her own Cruiser Group. I did not know, where the other three vessels were. The crew had hosted a dance later that evening, I had attended with Uncle Ilia and as the only person not in uniform, I had been a much sought-after dance partner. I don't think, that there is any male officer onboard that ship, with whom I haven't danced that night. My feet had killed me by the time I had retired for the night.
"Good morning, Grandmother.", I spoke and bowed my head.
She did not acknowledge my greeting, continued with her newspaper. I glanced up, scanned the title page... of the Utica Herald.
Shit.
In bold letters, with an image of myself and Marcella, there was the headline The End of two relationships. The underline detailled how the Sultana, according to a press release, ended my relationship with Marcella and thus, Marcella had ended the diplomatic relations with Kyrenaia. Several companies, among them Surya Corp., had apparently huffed and puffed in response.
Grandmother gave a small snort, then she began to fold the newspaper. That done, she put it onto the breakfast table, the image of me and Marcella on top.
"She has balls, one has to give her that.", she spoke, almost respectfully. "Still, she sould be very grateful towards both your Astarian friends and towards your Uncle." I still did not rise from my slight bow. I knew, that the Sultana was watching me. "And they should be very, very grateful for me not being Kian-Sultan. He wouldn't have given a shit and her palace would by now be a smouldering ruin for the insults she rendered us."
I swallowed a comment of us not exactly being polite either.
"Rise, Aurelia, and sit with me.", she said finally and I did as I was commanded to. She looked at me for a long time. "You know, what I am going to say."
"Something, something, greater good. Something, something, the needs of the many.", I replied, almost insolent, "Something, something, you will get over it."
Grandmother coughed into her elbow, clearly a distraction from her being amused and not wanting to show it. I was not in the mood for laughing and she knew that.
It took a moment until she replied.
"Indeed, you are correct.", she said finally and nodded, "You will get over it. And it was necessary." I did not respond. I wished to, but I didn't. "I know, that you know it, I know, what you don't like it... and I know, that you hate me now."
"'Hate' is not the word I'd use.", I replied, looked her into the eyes.
The Sultana held the look, returned it in kind. "Ask Karim for a word, which you might want to use, then.", she adviced me, "But until you can get him on the line, try to see reason." She let a beat pass. "You know, that I know of the whispers... and you know, that I know, that those had been said to your pretty little face."
I exhaled. Well... so much for that little secret.
"Repeat a few of them for me.", the Sultana said.
I looked at her.
"Go ahead, don't be shy. I don't think, that you heard anything, which I hadn't heard already.", Grandmother smiled, folded her hand in her lap. "The floor is yours."
I swallowed.
"Carpet-eating Runt.", I repeated, "Selkie-Spitroast-Bastard." Grandmother's eyebrow twitched. "And one wondered, if I could tell her, who's phallus tasted better, Dad's, Uncle Ilia's or Atif's."
I stopped.
"What did you do with Princess Amana in return?"
I was stumped for a moment. Princess Amana bint-Adil had been one of the most insolent critics of Marcella and me and being a Princess of the Khanate of Tipassa, she could allow herself being that. "I don't think..."
"Don't.", Grandmother interrupted me. "Don't play me for a fool. So?"
I sighed. "I laughed at her, telling her, that I heard better insults in Elementary School.", I replied. It had been less funny, then one would think. I had been an olive skinned girl in Elementary School in the Free Lands and, worse, born out of wedlock. "She huffed and stalked off."
"And told her Father.", the Sultana replied, "Who told Nesrin, that you insulted his daughter - you know, the Ilkhana of Fenchu?!" She exhaled. "Also known as my greatest and most influential critic?" She nodded and smiled a smile, which did not reach her eyes. "That one. Luckily, that woman has standards, knew, what was going on, and told Dschamilla, who, in return told al-Zahir. Who told me." I swallowed. "And I asked a few Handmaidens... don't worry, I didn't even attempt asking Sarina, but those, who I did ask, told me, that this was not the first incident of that kind... under my own roof."
There was a lot of anger in her voice.
"This had to stop.", she finished. "I tried to not being unreasonable, but..." She shrugged, then tapped the Herald's front page. "...we know, how that ended." She looked at me and smiled slightly. "The Sun's Review was surprisingly sympathetic, you know? Towards you, I mean, railing against how Marcella, the Duchess of an unimportant speck of dust could so easily break a Kyrenaian Princess' heart by not agreeing with the Sultana."
I looked at her with wide eyes.
"They never made any bones about hating the fact, that I was in a relationship with another woman." There. I said it. Was. Marcella was far from being history, but... I suppressed the urge to swallow. "So...?"
"I did, what they wanted me to do. They can hardly put me at fault now.", Grandmother replied, "Besides, Marcella insulted the Sultana and the Sultanate by throwing us out and declaring us personae non gratae." She let a beat pass. We both knew, that she had not exactly been polite either. "Their colleagues from the Illustrated Review were far less polite towards either of you, if it is a consolation to you."
I groaned. "What did they call me this time?"
"Oh, the usual... though they did wonder, who might end up in your bed next.", she said and raised her hand, "Their words, not mine. And the online edition of the Journal of the Moon was so polite to specifically write, that they did not give a damn as to who had intercourse with whom and how, they are a political journal, not a gossip rag."
"Small blessings.", I mumbled and exhaled, then looked at the Sultana - not at my Grandmother. "I hate you. You know that."
She nodded.
"And you know what I hate the most?", I asked, then answered my own question, "I know, that you had valid and important reasons. From your point of view, you did the right thing... it's just not my point of view."
The Sultana nodded.
"Would you terribly mind, if I were to leave you alone for your breakfast?", I asked. Don't cry, girl. "I'm not exactly feeling hungry."
She bowed her head lightly, "Give Aldhiyb my best regards. You are dismissed."
I rose and returned the bow before turning on my heels and walking off at a brisk pace, not speaking another word. Don't cry.
Sarina expected me at the bottom of the stairs leading up to the Sundeck, I walked past her. She did not hold it against me, as we walked down the hallways briskly, back into my suite.
Once the door was closed, I sniffed once, then a second time.
"Tea, Aurelia?", Sarina asked, concern in her voice. I nodded without a word. She went to the small kitchenette and prepared the tea.
Aldhiyb was there in a moment's notice. I buried my face in his shoulder and exhaled deeply, taking a few deep breaths.
Sarina made to place the cuppa onto the living room table, I shook my head. "In my study, please.", I asked of her, "High time that I see, what went on back home..."
The first thing, however, when checking my smartphone was a messege from the Empire of Astares Amauricanum:

I stared at my private phone. I had given them my private number, exactly because we had become good acquaintances, maybe even friends, all those months ago during the state visit. Sure, they were special at times, but they were also good people.
Marcella had that number, too.
But regardless, I wrote a messege back:

Dear friends,

I stared at those two words, then deleted them. Sure, I was friend of both of them, did not want to put one ahead of the others, but that was just too unpersonal.

Dear Adrean, dear Anna,
thank you for your kind words. Although I am very sure, that I will read a press release from the Silver Palace in a few minutes, I appreciate you two offering me your aid.
I would love to invite you two to the Altinyarat-Palace, so that the hug is not virtual, but I am afraid, that we are all busy with matters greater then us. And not only that, I would wish for your first visit to Kyrenaia to be something other then comforting a girl with a broken heart.
I will manage, I am sure of it. Aldhiyb is with me, after all, and Dad is not far away either. Sarina and Yasmin are closeby, too.
Still... if we could maybe make a VOIP-call one of these days, I would love to hear, how you two are.

With a big hug,
Aurelia

I pressed the send button and by that time, my PC had started, the E-Mails already up - and lo and behold, Dad had forwarded me the press release.

P.S.: Please relay to Mister Foxter, that he should scratch the "-ter" from his nameplate, for he is a little fox - in a positive sense of the word. ; )

I knew, that Safir, ben Sahid and Dad would be glad about that assurance, that te Astarians were (not yet) taking sides.

Naval Station Mokastana Northeast.
It was not a big station.
A couple of patrol vessels, four Pattern A Littoral Operations Vessels and a tender, to be precise, plus a small flight of helicopters for SAR, a radar, a couple of other buildings... still a lot to pack within three days... and especially if it was made to be unusable.
The Sultanate had announced that.
That was why part of the base staff was going through the already cleared buildings with backpacks full of explosives and detonators, were drilling deep holes into the piers to blow them up and were emptying the fuel tank into the tanks of their ships and any barrel they could find.
The radar would be blown to the moon, too, too large and too complex to uninstall on such a short notice.
Three days was ambitious, especially since the crew had started to like the place. Good weather, not much to do, friendly indiginous people... they did not care about who screwed whom, but they understood the apparent reasoning of their hostess.
They did not like it, though.
The UIS was, thus, open to influence of people, who might be worse then the Sultanate could ever be. The Astarians, for example, were seen as kind of dodgy by some in the Armed Forces of the Sultanate. Not to the point of hostility, but to the point of caution. No matter which beautiful press photographs the next state visit produced, some had their doubts of the good intentions of the people from the Malditas.
But they had work to do.
And they knew, in Naval Base Acra, there was work being done, too: A tender and a troop transport were being prepared to meet them at sea, so that the arrangement of people sleeping in every nook and cranny could end very quickly.
All in all, it would be busy days - but the fireworks would be splendid.

by **Mervay** » Mon Jun 14, 2021 2:58 pm

Village of Volci, Slyvan Valley
Callista IV of Mervay
Volci, an town of history and beauty; a bit isolated if it wasn't by the road and railway station that leads to the town here but like the rest of the nation, it is well connected digitally. As such thanks to the power of a single click or tap, she could be briefed of what was happening in the nation alongside the reports she has to read as well; as such, she did during her breakfast. News about the elections coming close; Liberal Candidate for the Premiership, Hubert Durant meeting with Labourist Candidate, Celina Von Eyl; Conservative Candidate, Tobias Skylark; Green Candidate, Lucia Artrid; and Nationalist Candidate, Tousert Artent for the last of the three debates before the general elections.
The latter was all in an tense decision as the polls showed an close race between the LDP and the SDLP. Making whoever win have the task to seek alliances with the minor parties and the ARAP (Ardens Royalist Autonomous Party) for an calm government; this close race can all boil down to the fact that while Mervay handled very well the pandemic and it's economy got off fine even if it had a recesion during the first half of the year, however it is clear reforms are to be made and innovation and helping those workers that lost their jobs return to the job market with new skills for those whose labour sectors were hit the hardest, the tourist and aviation industry being two of the ones to focus.

That alongisde the last two areas it all comes down; the fact both candidates have presented good arguments and points alongside proposals, making many consider between the two options and then the increase of the greens in the polls which make many believe that part of the voter base was interested in the proposals of the party.

"Seems we will have an interesting election to look foward to." The young blond woman muttered to herself as she drank her tea, the calm of her small, yet beautiful villa helping a lot. That was until...

"Huh!?" She nearly choked on her tea as she was reading the most bizarre news ever since the supernova joke her silbings told her years ago. Of course those besides her at the table rushed foward to help her, to which as soon as she got better she smiled warmly at them for helping her out. Of course, one of the people there was concerned about such break of character from the usually calm woman they swore loyalty to.

"Your Majesty, is everything alright?" Her most trustworthy bodyguard and friend asked concerned, the white haired and ruby eyed woman concerned. To which her superior only tried to play down her shock.

"I'm fine Jess, I just read something I thought was a joke... Until I saw the documents bellow that confirmed this wasn't a joke like that supernova my silbings told me..." As such her guardian and leader of the unit that protected her took a look at what made her lady act that way and... She raised an eyebrow.

"I'm... I'm surprised." It was all the Lt. General could say before blinking twice to confirm what her eyes are seeing and then the reports to see if there was something there, only to find to her dismay that nothing was present. It is now for them to wait for the Chancellor and the Royal Intelligence to confirm this. "I suggest we wait to see if there's more than what the news article presented..." They didn't had to wait long as in the blink of an eye, the e-handbook the queen used was showing an urgent videocall from government officials. The Chancellor Dileva and the Royal Intelligence and Communications Organization (RICO) Director General. The Prime Minister absent as he's on a diplomatic tour in North Point and San Salvacion.

The two looked at each other, Agustinas, the woman, finally accepting the call in an secure government line.

"I hope the emergency meeting has to do with what the whole news are talking about." She sighed, rubbing her head thinking about how did that happened when they were seen lovely dovey back in february.

The first to talk was the chancellor, Dileva was by all means as dumbfounded as the rest about the sudden turn of events, in fact never in her carrer has she seen such overnight change without a deep reason or that had the writing on the wall, and yet here she was, considering the theory that the entire diplomatic breakdown came from the relationship between Duchess Villa and Princess Aurelia was the cause of it goind downhill. Now the aftermath is clear and for sure neither nation will get off pretty easily of it for the time being. However those thoughts were soon pushed aside to answer the queen's question.

"It is Your Majesty, the news are spreading about the diplomatic debacle between The UIS and The Sultanate." The brunette responded while looking at the head of state sigh before motioning with her hand to continue. "As you may know, we were planning on briefing you about this earlier in the morning, however we had the misfortune of our analystys having to run a series of simulations regarding all consequences while new information has been appearing and now that we have it... We came to the conclusion the prospects for this being an orderly breakdown are null for the moment, as the actions recently committed will not help at all." The face for her said it, never in her life has she seen such breakdown and only deities know if this could end in a war since the most closest examples of such breaching of relationships are from nations that are in conflict or high-running tensions.

The Queen now found herself wishing to know what did just happen for this to breakdown beyond the breakup between the couple, after all; all signs before this were that Kyrenaia was an strong and reliable ally to The Sultanate and now; in an 180º turn of events, the two nations break their special relationship in an single night; either the statement they sent to the public was telling half of the truth and they did played that type of diplomacy, or, like the cable said... Duchess Villa just mixed personal issues with the chains of command. The worst mistake to ever do...
Now here they find themselves in, her romantic side would certainly tell her to support their relationship and disobey what was decreed to Princess Aurelia and Duchess Villa; yet, her pragmatic side would tell her that while it's tragic what it happened, saying that would just bring in heat no one wants; more now when it is possible that whispers will emerge, rumours will run wild, the media will let their imagination for the tabloids to make this an massive romantic novel; all the while Aurelia and Marcella are to be in middle of the spotlight.

They will take the worse of the impact, it will be them that will have to deal with the fallout that will happen over this and the rest of the powers that fight for adding AHSCA into their sphere; they will take advantage to gain further influence on the islands now that one of the key players has been ejected from the game,

Callista could only sigh as she imagined the images on her head and what did it ticked off Villa's outburst; whatever happened in the room where it happens, it was certainly tense.

"Please tell me we do have anything regarding what happened there, both of you." She then asked as the RICO Director spoke to confirm.

"Embassy personnel reported that the Sultana and her delegation left the Palace after a short meeting Your Majesty, they were escorted by the Duchess Knights to their ship before departing Aurora to international waters... And that it appears they were declared Persona Non Grata" The Director General said, it was brief and short, yet it was all needed to say.

It was silent for a few moments, tension filling the room about what could be done, either intervene as some kind of mediator should it happen, that the considered peaceful breakup goes awry, throw their ring and play the game, or do nothing and watch from the sidelines. A decision was made with firm determination.

"Chancellor. Please prepare an statement regarding the situation and our intentions to mediate the situation shoud it get out of hand." The blonde woman directed at the chancellor before looking at the RICO Director General. "Director General Hamilton, please make sure to keep me informed of any new development of the situation between the two nations, they are two of our closest partners and I would rather see an restoration of relations as soon as this whole debacle ends." The Director General nodded and got prepared to do that. However, Her Majesty, no; Agustinas, spoke.

"This might seem hypocrite, but... As soon as the Chancellor's Office prepares the declaration, please do add our intentions to have a visit to both involved states. I feel... That you should go and check the situation in the isles as soon as we are allowed and I to the sultanate in the same fashion as well." Needless to say, she was; worried of the state Aurelia might be since as soon as the news spread, the media will be all over her and some will certainly try and bring back the ghosts of the Fiafia Scandal, while others will see that perhaps the change she tried to do to the Marriage Law is all to the dust as the issue is unsettled. In other words, she was worried of her state after politics just stopped her from getting her relationship to the next level.

The chancellor stopped whatever she was doing, the brunette looking at what the young woman she knew for so long and way before either of them got in the positions they were talked about; she remembered fondly how she did the same for her daughter, always at the side of Tess.

"While I can say it is a bit selfish; I guess that's who you are as well... You had learned to adapt to this world of politics and the separation of state affairs and personal ones." She spoke, looking at the girl she knew since childhood came to play with her daughter and was always by her side. "But-" She let a beat pass. "That's who you are sometimes, Agus. You had done your best and I'm sure your reasons are far beyond personal ones on you being concerned; but I guess that if they do accept our proposal, then you will be able to mediate and for sure accomplish your mission of helping Lady Aurelia on these dire times for her." She smiled warmly at her and before long, Agus did the same as well.

"You are right, Ms. Dileva. My parents and silbings always told me the same as well... Guess I have it as a trait or something..." She chuckled a bit at that. "As soon as possible, please make me the favour of call Tess and her wife, they could perhaps tell us how is the air on the people's side..."

Royal Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Kingdom of Mervay
Ministère royal des Affaires Étrangères du Royaume de Mervay
Ministero Reale Degli Affari Esteri del Regno di Mervay

In the name of Her Majesty's Goverment, The Kingdom of Mervay finds itself dissapointed to the breakup between The Sultanate of Kyrenaia and The United Island States of Aurora, Hoshino, Stillstando, Corona and Animalpolis (AHSCA); two of Asteria's closest partners and ones whose relationship seemed so strong. And while Asteria finds itself sad for the developments, it is one understandable.
As such, we wish to extend our offer for the nation to act as mediator between the two parties shall it be desired and to salvage what little can be of the relationship.

Signed by
- Her Royal Majesty of Mervay, Callista IV
- Minister of Foreign Affairs/Her Majesty's Chancellor, Jessica Dileva

by **AHSCA** » Mon Jun 14, 2021 4:30 pm

Aurora - Next Morning

Well it wasn't a real restful night for Marcella but today she was ready to face the new days. Without a doubt there was going to be some blow back for her actions last night, she wished things could have gone better but well now it was what it was. Someone like the Sultana was probably not one to take an insult from someone so young lightly, and while Marcella did go over a thousand apologies in her head, she certainly wasn't about to beg or grovel for forgiveness. Her mother's words of wisdom certainly echoed in her head. Perhaps it was as she said, she might find someone else while holding Aurelia in a special place in her heart, perhaps not, one can only wait and see. "Good morning." she bid Asuna who stood at her door ready to greet her. "Good morning, Milady."

"I didn't see you off last night, I trust there were no issues in seeing the Kyrenaians off?"

"No issues, Milady, they departed our waters safe and sound and all way stations report they exited our area of responsibility."

"Milady," Yoshi spoke up "Before your day starts, should I bring you something?"

"I'm fine, thank you. You have my schedule?"

"Yes Milady, it's a busy one, with three of your Officers, Gozen, Kurago and VinoCacao requesting your audiences along with General Leader Sturnum of Stillestando."

Marcella sighed "Great, what does he want?"

"I tried to inquire, Milady, he would not tell me anything."

"Very well, is he here already?"

"He is, shall I show him in?"

"Do so. Might as well get this over with."

Yoshi and Asuna nodded to allow him to enter. General Zwei Sturnum, leader of Stillestando, a noted hawk in the UIS, at best a vocal critic, at worst a parasitic social climber hoping to dethrone the Villas. As such he was the leader, though the thought of the former Queen being alive was starting to nag her suddenly. Ah gees why did she have to have this earthquaking news at this time.

"General."

"My Lady" He said with all the sincerity of a gnat. "Have you seen all the papers?"

"I'll be having a meeting with my Culture Officer later, you want to talk business of your state?" Marcella attempted to wrestle the conversation away from him.

"Well I'd say this is a matter of national interest that goes across all state lines with your little tuffel with the Sultana of the deserts."

"I'd hardly call it a tuffel as much as a spirited disagreement. Come on, my time is short, get to the point."

"Of course Milady, of course, contray to what you might expect, I only wanted to congratulate you on finally taking a stand. I've been critical of you giving more and more of our national sovereignty away to so many foreign powers. Given the complex lineage of the Princess Aurelia, I want to assure you this is for the best and well offer up my own eldest daughter."

"Noire huh?" She only in passing ever saw the so called General's Daughter, Noire, (not to be confused with Officer Noir) having spoken to her on a few occasions, she was a few years younger than Marcella and often seemed more standoffish. But maybe she was only shy? Who really knows but the nerve of this guy trying to pawn his daughter off for political gang, but she supposed she better keep her options open.

"I'm not eager to take up another relationship so soon, whether that is someone from our islands or someone abroad. GIve her my best, will you?"

"Yes, Highness, of course, I only wanted to suggest it but I do understand you might need time to heal. Noire would I believe make a fine suitor but if you also desire a man as you do seem to pick the fruits of both gardens, I have many fine young men in my command who might be advantageous. I don't imagine you'll be following your ancestor and setting up a concubine."

Marcella had enough explosions for one week so she decided to let his slights against her slide. "Now, if you'll please, General, I have quite a few meetings today."

"Very well, good day, Your Highness."

The clock ticked on from morning to mid morning next was Officer Gozen. "Milady, as you're aware this has made a number of news outlets. But you still don't wish to give a statement."

"Give them the usual, political differences."

"Still not sure how well that's going to go, allow me to get your statement officially. I mean even if you so desire, I can really try to spin it in your favor."

"I think by now everyone knows of my relationship, it's not hard for them to put two and two together. What does the Sultanate press say. Formally anyway, respected sources, not worried about the gossips sheets there."

"I will see what I can find out."

"See it this way, if they give the usual humdrum, we shall. If they try to drag my name or Aurelia's name down, then we will fight fire with fire."

"Of course, Milady."

"Shizuka, thank you, do what you can and see me later."

"Yes, Your Grace." She bowed and made her leave. A few bills made it to her, small things like budget approvals or maritime amendments to worry about, it was hard for her to concentrate with her mind still thoroughly on Aurelia. She really hoped her letter would find her soon enough when they got home. It was a bit of a voyage from here to there after all.

Asuna poked her head in "Officers Kurago and VinoCaco here to see you, Milady."

"Thank you. Come in, sit down."

"Milady"

"Milady."

"Officers, the station decomition is going along?"

"Yes milady, no issues with their naval base or embassy closure going on." Kurago replied to her.

"Milady" Noir continued "Perhaps it is not too late to consider a formal apology, if you are having second thoughts?"

"I won't like and say that I'm not having doubts about this but I burned the bridge. What's done is done. The Sultana is a prideful woman, she won't take the insults from a Monarch of a few backwater islands that's a quarter of her age lightly, especially with how much trouble our relationship made in the Sultanate."

"Yes, Milady, just wanted to get my thoughts across, again it is your decision to go forward. That said, we have been given some communiques, this one from Astares Amauricanum

She passed along the envelope contents marked confidential, only Marcella could read it or chose who could read it.

"Mmm it's pretty standard."

"This one from Mervay."

Given the Mervay letter was addressed to both Noir and Marcella that meant both of them were entitled to read it. "Word is really starting to spread....This is starting to get concerning." Marcella said as she began to read it.

"Yes, Milady they are requesting an audience with us to discuss this matter."

"Not sure why it concerns them."

"I believe they mean to help out of concern, Milady. If you wish I can set it up for us as soon as possible."

"Well if they know, the whole damn world must know by this point, and I really don't want to give our advisories any ideas." Granted, Stevid's relations with the UIS might have gone from cold to frosty with recent events. "So, Noir, please do arrange it, I'll hear what they have to say. And yes, I'll bite my tongue on this one."

"Of course, Milady, please do not think of me as being harsh against your choice, I heard some of the things the Sultana said it started to get under my skin a little too. Remember I act as an officer of your court." Noir stood and bowed to go do her thing.

"Kurago, my request for a quiet observation of intel within the Sultanate?"

"Plans are in, Motion, Milady. And I want to emphazie with you so we are clear, this is strictly observational?"

"Strictly so. If you are working with the Imperium on this, than be sure they understand that as well."

"Yes, Milady."

"And Kurago, given this is starting to get out there, please increase our maritime patrols by air and sea. I don't imagine we'll have problems but I want to be safe. You may do so by my orders, you don't need to go through Congress on this one."

"As you Command."

United Island Office of Foreign Affairs (UNIFRO)

Honorable Chancellor,

Thank you for the latest communique from the Kingdom to us. I have relayed your message with Her Royal Highness, Duchess Marcella Villa, and she has agreed to take the time to meet up with your delegation to discuss this matter further. Her Highness would like to apologize for any issues and concern caused to Mervay by this sudden swift diplomatic fallout between our nation and the Sultanate of Kyrenaia and she looks forward to meeting you soon enough. Until then, we shall be in touch.

Noir VinoCacao
On Behalf of Her Highness,
Duchess Marcella Villa

Addressed to Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia

United Island Office of Foreign Affairs (UNIFRO)

To Whom It May Concern,

Please excuse the abruptness of my new message to you. With our formal diplomatic relations coming to an end, there is a matter we regrettably overlooked in executing this command for Her Highness, and that is the matter of foreign persons in each our own states. While diplomatic and military personal will be easily accounted for and rotated out, we are talking of ordinary civilians will complicate matters for the time. We do not know of the Sultanate's intentions in regards to none state actor personas of our nations but we would like to assure safe passage and the continuing of free travel (within respect to each other's policies on travel and emigration) of said persons. At present we are still prepared to honor all passports of the Sultanate within the UIS and related civil maritime transit. We hope you will do the same with us or at the very least, see to the safe and orderly movement of all non-state actors within our respected territories.

Thank you for your cooperation,

Noir VinoCacao
On Behalf of Her Highness,
Duchess Marcella Villa

by **Brettenwald** » Mon Jun 14, 2021 9:02 pm

His Majesty's morning routine rarely differed: wake up, shower, get dressed, eat breakfast, and walk upstairs to his office, where he would receive a cup of coffee brewed to the same strength with the same amount of cream served at the same temperature in the same bone china cup and saucer as he had drunk every morning for the past 32 years and drink it while he looked over his morning briefing. This morning's folder wasn't terribly interesting, but then again "interesting" had an unpleasant tendency to mean "something the Crown finds undesirable". Appeals for increased transportation infrastructure funding from Ariyne province (not unless the bastards quit stonewalling the Crown's corruption probe of their local leadership and if he had to fly out there personally and make sure that got done then by the gods he would), something about the defense budget for the next fiscal year (no, as a matter of fact it was not too damn high), and various forms of insignificant bullshit that the relevant ministers should have known better than to bother him with.
"Your Majesty?"
"Yes, Shireen?"
His secretary entered, bearing one of the dreaded red folders that meant "urgent". "It's from the Foreign Ministry, sir." He took it from her and began to read as she silently shut the door, frowning slightly, frowning deeply, and then irritably punching a button on his desk phone. "Alerik. Oh? Good. I thought so. See you soon." As the Foreign Minister's limousine had just passed the palace gates when His Majesty rang, it was therefore a matter of minutes before His Honor the Foreign Minister was present in the emperor's sanctum sanctorum. "I wouldn't have thought our little Duchess had half the stones on her that she seems to," His Honor commented by way of a greeting, grunting and settling his significant bulk in a high-backed leather chair on the opposite side of a six-foot-wide solid mahogany desk. Despite looking and acting like a fat, jovial and generally harmless middle-aged dad, Alerik Leon Morvan had a killer instinct for figuring out what made people tick, a mind like a steel trap, infinitesimal tolerance for bullshit, unquestionable loyalty and a civil service record clean enough to perform heart surgery on: qualities which made him not only indispensable to the Emperor but also the only bureaucrat His Majesty actually enjoyed working with.
"You're telling me. I always thought Helena would have eaten her alive- no, correction. I still think my daughter could run rings around her, but if the Duchess gets through this without getting her country either annexed or bombed back to the Cretaceous period I'll reevaluate her. Anyway, you're not here to hear me ramble on as a proud father, so let's get down to business. I know what's happened, of course, but I want to hear it from you."

Morvan collected his thoughts for a brief moment. "Right. Princess Aurelia bint-Damir and Duchess Marcella Villa are, since I highly doubt either of them consider it over from an interpersonal perspective without Razia-Sultana in the frame, in a same-sex relationship. This has been about as popular in the Sultanate as a violent fart in a crowded lift, and the same thing can be said of the Princess' sexual orientation if not to an even greater degree. Razia-Sultana, Aurelia's grandmother, personally travelled to the UIS and ended the pair's relationship for them yesterday. I can only assume that needed to be done to score points with conservative elements in Kyrenaia, since from everything I know about their home situation the country's been held together politically with perhaps more duct tape and ratchet straps than is wise or sustainable in the long term. The Duchess, in response, terminated the two countries' diplomatic relationship and officially declared the Sultana persona non grata, both actions being in my opinion stupid and a needless personal insult."
"Couldn't agree with you more," the Emperor said, taking a deep draught of his coffee. "Never mix the political with the personal, it never ends any way except badly. Continue."
"Anyway, this termination of diplomatic relations leaves a power vacuum in the region since the Kyrenaian air station on Mokastana is being vacated and in fact destroyed. A power vacuum which, since they're already in the Malditas, I have no doubt the Astarians would like to fill."
"And your take on this whole mess is?"

Morvan shifted in the chair, laced his fingers together, and grimaced. "Villa's let her emotions and personal biases deal her into an extremely high-stakes card game here, and it's not one I'm at all sure she can win. You don't want to piss off a country like Kyrenaia- powerful military, powerful allies, and culturally extremely sensitive to honor and insults and what have you -and she's done that. You don't want to let a fox into your henhouse, and she's done that too by letting the Astarians set up shop in the Malditas. You especially don't want to do either of those things if you're the woefully inexperienced ruler of a third-world sneeze on the map, and she is. I don't see this turning into an armed conflict on either the civil or international scale for the time being, but I'm hardly an oracle. If it does, worst-case scenario, as far as we're concerned we can easily maintain neutrality. Maybe send hospital ships and start taking in refugees if we want to do some good. As far as they're concerned, I hope to hell that young lady knows what she's doing, for her and her people's sake. Couple solid bomber runs combined with some artillery from offshore and it's goodnight Mrs. Heyling for the UIS. Now that I've said my bit, your majesty, that brings us to the 64,000 krona question: what do you want to do about this?"
"Official joint statement from your ministry and the Crown to the effect that we are in no particular order saddened by the breakdown of a healthy diplomatic relationship, extend our-slash-my sympathies regarding the breakdown of a healthy personal relationship, and concerned about Astarian aggression- no, that's too strong a word, Astarian maneuvering in the resulting power vacuum but hopeful that a peaceful resolution can be reached. That's all for now, I think, but I'll probably drop in at the Mausoleum later after I'm done with our meeting with Saatje and see who Oskar thinks will come out on top if things do heat up just out of curiosity."
"Understood." His Honor stood up. "If there's nothing else, your majesty?"
"No, nothing else. I'm not worried about military involvement yet because you're not worried about it yet, but Johan's keeping myself and Oskar updated on comms traffic and various other things, so that'll keep our diplomatic response times to a minimum. He should have you and Saatje in the loop too by the time you're finished giving her the no-bullshit version of events you just gave me. Say hi to the wife and kids for me when you get home."

June 14, 2021

Joint Statement from the Crown & Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Regarding the ongoing situation between the Sultanate of Kyrenaia and the United Island States of AHSCA:

On order of His Imperial Majesty Emperor Thomas IV and on behalf of the Crown and the Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs, I hereby have the honor to release this statement. The Crown has recently been made aware of the termination of all diplomacy between the Sultanate of Kyrenaia and the United Island States of AHSCA as well as the termination of the relationship between Princss Aurelia and Duchess Marcella. While it appreciates the political necessities and deciding factors on both sides, the Crown is saddened by the end of a healthy and mutually beneficial diplomatic relationship but hopeful that a peaceful resolution to this unfortunate conflict can be reached. The Crown also wishes to express its concern regarding the impending power vacuum created by the closure of the Kyrenaian naval air station on the island of Mokastana, a situation it fears will leave the UIS vulnerable to further maneuvering by the Federalis Imperium of Astares Amauricanum. Finally, His Imperial Majesty wishes to personally and sincerely extend his sympathies to the Duchess and Princess during this difficult & highly emotional time and to offer the Crown's hospitality to representatives of the Sultanate and the UIS should neutral ground be required for any negotiation proceedings.

Signed,
His Honor Alerik Morvan, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Overseen by:
His Imperial Majesty Emperor Thomas IV
Her Honor Saatje Kaenor, Prime Minister

Communication by state representatives is to be addressed to: Adalrich Morvan, 129 Coronation Boulevard, Aurinel, Brettenwald NW1-04535. For media inquiries, please contact: Crown Office of Communications, 300 Coronation Boulevard, Aurinel, Brettenwald NW1-04535.

by **Kyrenaia** » Tue Jun 15, 2021 9:56 am

Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
Aboard the Yacht Rashiq.
As we cruised along, I knew, that Marcella was getting up, too. Maybe earlier then I did, too, with her not having bawled her eyes out... she was stronger then that.
Over the morning, more and more people were chiming up, adding their voices – press, governments friendly to one or both of us, people, who knew us, the whole array. I appreciated the kind words directed at me personally and I was sure, that Marcella was in a similar boat.
They were, naturally, all worried.
Kyrenaia was a powerful, proud and ancient country and its people were proud, too. There were already some voices, who were calling for air strikes (because sending a few Daburs over Aurora with firebombs under the wings was going to help so much), but those hawks were shot down by the Leadership of the Armed Forces quickly and with extreme prejudice. Grand Admiral Safina, bless his ancient heart, was quite strict in that, not even entertaining the thought.
The thing was, we had to respond to this slight against Kyrenaia, the Sultana had to reply to this slight against her, otherwise whichever brownie points she earned were for naught.
The main issue was, that the economic relations between us and the UIS were small and, while it might hurt the UIS, cutting those ties would have little effect but being symbolic. It was mostly tourism anyway and while that was an important sector in the UIS, there were enough, who would gladly fill that hole.
From the Malditas, for example.
Marcella's move had opened her up to more influence from the Astarians. It was, hopefully, not what she had in mind.
Fact was, if I knew my Grandmother correctly, she was not planning armed action against the UIS, not now. Uncle Ilia had convinced her of that being a bad idea. Otherwise, every call towards the UIS would go down in the irradiated ash, that it would be now.
No, if I knew my Grandmother correctly, she was planning to go through the back door. While that sounded fun, it would not be, least of all for those on the receiving end. And she would be vicious, I knew that much, too.
By lunchtime, I sat in my suite's living room, wearing something comfortable, which I wouldn't be caught dead in during a stately function, the feet on the sofa, a cuppa on the table. Sarina had sent for someone to bring something to eat up for both of us.
I was sifting through reports of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, when I stumbled across...

It was not Marcella begging for forgiveness, but about us urgent and as important. Normal travellers and tourists – I admit, that I completely forgot about that. Normal people were in both countries and the Marcella seemed to be willing to continue as before.
According to the reply following suit, we were in a similar boat:

To: Noir VinoCacao, United Island Office of Foreign Affairs.
From: Azad Safir, Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Qaleatan Maktab, Utica, Ilkhanate of Utica, Sultanate of Kyrenaia.

Miss VinoCacao,
we are glad to hear, that the UIS plans to respect the Sultanate's citizens within its borders and guarantee their safe passage.
Likewise, the Sultanate does not intent to take any hostages, least of all in the form of civilians caught in the crossfire. The Passport of the UIS will be respected and honoured by the Sultanate's authorities and its holders will be allowed safe passage to, from and through the Sultanate and all of its Territories as well.
This is the Will of the Sultana.

Signed,
Azad Safir,
Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia.

Safir had a thankless job right now. He was the highest-ranking government official in Utica right now. And with at least three days at sea remaining, even if the Rashiq went at maximum speed, he would be for the foreseeable future. Al-Zahir was on speed dial for him, I knew that, but still... he had looked forward to a few relaxing days with extra pay, then two weeks vacation with his wife.
Things were slightly derailed.
I rose. I was not confined to quarters, but I had little interest in wandering around the ship, plus, there was work to do. Wandering around would only increase the chances of meeting someone or worse, the Sultana. I knew, that I would not be able to keep my trap shut.
No, work was better.
A Handmaiden knocked and delivered lunch, Kisir, a light salad.
I thanked her, then went back to work, munching on the greens all the while – and nearly choking as I read the message...

Mervay wrote:[...]

(Image)
Royal Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Kingdom of Mervay
Ministère royal des Affaires Étrangères du Royaume de Mervay
Ministero Reale Degli Affari Esteri del Regno di Mervay

In the name of Her Majesty's Goverment, The Kingdom of Mervay finds itself dissapointed to the breakup between The Sultanate of Kyrenaia and The United Island States of Aurora, Hoshino, Stillstando, Corona and Animalpolis (AHSCA); two of Asteria's closest partners and ones whose relationship seemed so strong. And while Asteria finds itself sad for the developments, it is one understandable.
As such, we wish to extend our offer for the nation to act as mediator between the two parties shall it be desired and to salvage what little can be of the relationship.

Signed by
- Her Royal Majesty of Mervay, Callista IV
- Minister of Foreign Affairs/Her Majesty's Chancellor, Jessica Dileva

Royal Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Kingdom of Mervay
Ministère royal des Affaires Étrangères du Royaume de Mervay
Ministero Reale Degli Affari Esteri del Regno di Mervay

Encryption Level: CTP10 (Classified-Top Secret)
Time of Response: Urgent
Recipient: Azad Safir, Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Theme of Interest/Concern: Ceasing of Diplomatic Relations between The Sultanate of Kyrenaia and The United Island States of Aurora, Hoshino, Stillstando, Corona and Animalpolis (AHSCA)

Minister Zafir, I hope this won't be the worst moment to send this urgent mail; however the massively shifting that both Utica and Aurora had done is too difficult to ignore for our government. That is why, we are requesting an urgent meeting with The Sultana and Princess Aurelia; I must add that this will be a complete affair Her Majesty wants to take in and that shall it be accepted, it is possible that she will be in company of His Royal Highness Pandareos, Prince of Athalyssya. It will understandable if there's no opportunity for this meeting to take place, but Her Majesty is really interested in checking with Lady Aurelia after their bonding during the state visit and the ball at Montrose.

So please, if possible; make sure this message is relied to The Sultana and Princess Bint-Damir.

We will expect their answer.

Signed by
- Minister of Foreign Affairs/Her Majesty's Chancellor, Jessica Dileva

[...]

Note: Quote modified by removal of spoiler-tags.

Both were surprises, but welcome ones: An international mediator would allow Grandmother to safe face and to reach a conclusion without having to resort to means everyone would regret later, and it would allow her to do so without much issues.
Meanwhile... I liked Callista. She was a good and decent woman, who I got to know on several occasions now. She was right, the Sultanate, the UIS and Mervay were too close to simply let this slide as everyone getting along was ultimately better then the alternative.
There was a note attached to it: Come to me immediately upon reading this. Dad
Well, if my Father commanded...
I got up and crossed the hallway, knocked on the door. Callista wanted to meet with me, Prince Pandareos in tow. I have heard of him, a decent young man, a brother of Callista's and a bit older then me. I doubted, that this was a move to get me a favourable rebound romance, but still... odd timing.
Tara Harir, Dad's Personal Handmaiden, opened, looked at the door and clicked her tongue, then made way for me to enter.
“Dad bet, that I'd come after lunch?”, I asked with a smile.
“Yes.”, Tara said and sighed, “And now I have to cook his favourite dish for him, you and Yasmin-Khana... and something for Dschafar.” I smiled comfortingly, knowing, that Dad's favourite dish, Ajjaha, was quite an undertaking, one, which Tara did not like, no matter how good she was at it. Now Dad had won a coupon for it. “He's expecting you in his office.”
I nodded and smiled at Dschafar and Yasmin, who were playing by the living room table.
The little toddler babbled something, which made Yasmin coo. She looked at me and motioned with her head towards the office, I nodded.
Work first, playing with my half-brother later.
I knew the way and indeed, Dad was, where I expected him to be.
He sat at his desk, papers on it, no jacket and no tie in sight. He looked up as I entered and motioned for me to close the door. I did so, then approached the desk. He had a self-satisfied grin on his lips as he leaned back, I rounded the desk and sat down on the edge.
“Quite relaxed, aren't we, Princess?”, he asked with a smile.
“Indeed, Prince, especially after this morning's conversation with Grandmother.”, I replied with the same unctuous tone. Then we both laughed. “I take you heard of it?”
Dad nodded. “Something, something, greater good.”, he quoted with a smile, putting a hand on my upper leg. “You have too much of your mother in you.”
“Mam would have broken Marcella's desk with Grandmother's head and you know it.”, I replied with a small smile, “I spent half the morning wondering what would have been, if she would have accepted... and if you had been allowed to make the proposal.”
“Welcome to my world. I wonder quite often, too.”, Dad replied, then looked to the door, “I love Yasmin, I love Dschafar, I love you and I love Marla.” He exhaled, then looked at me. “Something else, though. Marcella's move made quite a few people very nervous.”
“I know.”, I said and raised the message from Mervay. “Callista seems quite nervous.”
“Not only her.”, Dad replied, “I have something on my desk from Filicia and Adalrich. And, of course...”

I read the joint statement and had to grin at the part about the power vacuum – and how they feared, that the Astarians would attempt to fill it. Oh, these thoughts sounded so deliciously familiar...
“I see you stumbled across the same part as I did.”, Dad commented as I lowered the piece. He was grinning, too. “It appears as if we have the prerogative of interpretation right now, mainly because we were a bit more forthcoming with information in our statement.” He let a beat pass. “I have half a mind to simply leave the UIS to the Astarians, see if it makes them happy, and let the whole situation peter out, but your Grandmother is of a different opinion.”
“I will not like this, will I?”
“Eh...” Dad shrugged. “Listen first, then judge.” I nodded. “The idea is threefold. One, you will write, sometime this afternoon, a confidential message to the Brettenwaldians, or rather, their Emperor. It will be a message of gratitude for his kind words. It will be attached to our formal diplomatic reply.” I nodded. I would not even be lying with that, too, for I was grateful. “Two... you planned on returning to the Altinyarad-Palace upon our return, right? Doubling down on it?” I nodded at both questions. “Perfect. Step two will be the reply to the Mervayans. We will agree to a meeting and invite both Callista and Prince... what was his name...?”
“Pandareos.”, I supplied.
“Thanks.”, Dad said with a smile, “Anyway, we will invite Pandareos and Callista. The former will meet with Mother, the latter will visit you in Malakiard.” I raised an eyebrow. “I know, it will be like introducing the sheep to the starving wolves, as far as that lad is concerned, but Mother sees no need for any large-scale mediations and reconciliation tries yet.” He raised a hand to forestall anything I might want to say. He smiled as he realized, that I had nothing to say. “While she will not tell him that outright, she will make that standpoint clear... and introduce him to Dschamilla.”
I looked at him with wide, shocked eyes.
“Nesrin did help us a bit as of late and if it nets her a new acquaintance, let alone Dschamilla a new boytoy...” He shrugged. “I can see the advantages. It also hinges on whether or not Callista accepts that invitation like that, which is another question.” He leaned back. “In any case, all of that also makes step three necessary.”
I nodded. This was, likely, the part which I would not like.
“We'll leave the Rashiq after dinner.”, Dad said, “A helicopter of the Eanqa will pick us up, bring us to their mothership and from there, a Baghl will take us to Oea CG. Amina already has a few rooms for us prepared, so we will stay overnight, or the rest of it, and then depart for the ultimate destinations.” He let a beat pass. “The catch is, that you'll spend several hours in a tight enclosed space with your Grandmother.”
I was not happy, Dad could see it.
Dad was not happy, I could see it.
It was a bit of consolation.
“I am not allowed to throw her out, right?”
“Don't even think about it.”, Dad replied, a small smile on his lips as he pulled me into his lap. “No matter what happens, though, never forget: You are my daughter and I love you.” He kissed me on the cheek. “If you ever need me, just give me a call. I'll come as soon as possible.”
“I know.”, I replied and gave him a peck on the forehead.
He released his grip, grinned. “Now go and play with your half-brother!”

To: Jessica Dileva, Her Majesty's Chancellor/Minister of Foreign Affairs.
From: Azad Safir, Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Qaleatan Maktab, Utica, Ilkhanate of Utica, Sultanate of Kyrenaia.

Diplomatic correspondence.
Not to be released.

Your Excellency,
Your message has been received and the words of both Yourself and Her Majesty the Queen have been relayed to both the Sultana and the Princess. Princess Aurelia was especially moved by the concern for her.
The breakdown of relations concerns us as well, especially in regards to who or what will fill the vacuum we left behind – it is a mess waiting to happen and I sincerely hope, that Marcella-Khana has the strength and willpower to withstand the storms, which will be coming for her.

That being said, both Princess Aurelia and the Sultana have agreed to meet Queen Callista and Prince Pandareos. The Sultana is especially interested in the Young Prince's view of the matter.
Unfortunately, Princess Aurelia intends to return to her duties as Beyeha of Malakiard as soon as possible, but she has allowed me to invite Her Majesty to her residence, the Altinyarat-Palace near Larsa.
Please tell us about any travelling arrangements, which either of them are going to make (as long as they relate to Kyrenaia, of course).

I remain respectfully yours,
Azad Safir,
Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia.

To: His Honor Adalrich Morvan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brettenwald.
From: Azad Safir, Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Qaleatan Maktab, Utica, Ilkhanate of Utica, Sultanate of Kyrenaia.

Diplomatic correspondence.
Not to be released.

Dear Mister Morvan,
in response to the recent Joint Statement issued by both you and His Imperial Majesty, the Sultana has asked me to relay Her gratitude for the offer. However, She, and I, for that matter, would much rather see such a get-together not as conference about rekindling the friendship between the UIS and the Sultanate, but rather about how to counter the growing influence of powers, which we all view with a certain scepticism.
The relations with the UIS will return in time.

In the meantime, attached to this letter, you will find a missive addressed to His Imperial Majesty, of the hand of Princess Aurelia, expressing her gratitude for the sympathy.

I remain respectfully yours,
Azad Safir,
Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia.

Your Imperial Majesty,
I wish to express my gratitude for Your sympathy in regards to the breakup between myself and my ex-girlfriend Marcella. It feels weird to write the word “ex-girlfriend” when speaking about her, but I am afraid, that these are the times.
Speaking of, the times also don't allow me to express my gratitude in the way I would want to, so I must ask His Imperial Majesty to feel hugged instead of hugging You myself.

With kind regards,
Aurelia bint-Damir,
Princess of the Ilkhanate of Utica and Beyeha of Malakiard.

P.S.: Please do not see this message as a diplomatic missive.

Over the open ocean, near the UIS.
Lioness 1-1/Commander Shaira Katakut.
We were far away from the UIS and even the Rashiq was more then a thousand kilometers away – still, a Kyrenaian Carrier Group, especially one like Carrier Group 5, which had the newest vessels and equipment at its disposal, made anyone within 3,000 kilometers nervous.
Rightfully so.
3,000 klicks was well within our range and, more importantly, well within the range of our Saqrs.
We were the standard Carrier Air Patrol, however. One AWACS-aircraft was a bit below us, searching for threats, while Lioness Flight was on the lookout for trouble. Six Armalas, one of the most advanced stealth interceptors, acting as patrols to secure our carrier.
RKN Eanqa was in the waves down below, with her three escorting destroyers. Of course, from my vantage high in the clouds, I could not see her, but I knew, that home, or whatever passed as such, was down below.
We were here as part of the Sultanate's commitment against piracy in international waters, as part of the Resolution to suppress International Piracy (GAR #20) and as we operated over and in international waters, the current shuffling between the Sultanate and the UIS, as well as others getting involved, could theoretically breath some engine exhaust.
Theoretically.
Fact was, that we were close enough to the Rashiq to send a helicopter with additional fuel tanks to send to the vessel to pick the Sultana up. We were within 3,000 klicks of the UIS.
Not necessarily the Islas Malditas, but I could imagine some people getting nervous there, too.
The best part was, our AWACS wasn't hiding – we were using our stealth-capabilities. So, any patrolling aircraft challenging the AWACS, maybe even intercepting it, would have a rude awakening...
Hopefully, neither of us would need that.
We, in any case, patrolled, in search for pirates.

Aboard the yacht Lustro, docked in Canaclon in Brucalla, a telephone rang.
It was a special telephone, not many people knew the number, so the man, who picked it up, knew, that it was important. He listened to the man on the other end, by the accent a Kyrenaian, outline the portfolio for people, who he needed under his employ for a very special task.
Thankfully, the man had an idea as to who he could contact for that very special task.
People, who did everything, if the money was right... and right the money was.

by **Brettenwald** » Tue Jun 15, 2021 5:10 pm

Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs

State Correspondence, security level Gamma
Subject to Gov't Transparency Act 1997: At Crown discretion

Dear Mr. Safir,

I will admit to a certain skepticism of His Majesty's phrasing in his personal addendum to our official statement, but as we had already fired a figurative warning shot across the Astarians' bow he felt it unwise to fire another. To paraphrase one of our proverbs, it is easy enough to poke a sleeping bear; the hard part comes when he wakes up. I assure you that we share your concern regarding Astarian aggression in the UIS, and we recognize that as Duchess Villa's gesture was less of a verbal barb and more of a full backhand to the face your relations will take some time to thaw accordingly.

His Majesty sends his thanks for the attachment of Princess Aurelia's letter and will respond to her personally when he is able.

Respectfully yours, sir,
Adalrich Morvan, Imperial Minister of Foreign Affairs

P.S. Please feel free to omit "Imperial" from His Majesty's title in our correspondence, he only uses it on the most formal occasions.

His Majesty scratched his beard and raised an appreciative eyebrow at his copy of the Minister's reply. Lovely work there, Morvan. His next concern was something more personal. Personal letterhead, handwritten, black ink is too formal so let's go with a tasteful dark blue, he thought idly, switching the record player on the windowsill behind him on and refilling a fountain pen as the soulful voice of Luciano Pavarotti filled his office.

Dear Princess Aurelia,

Your gratitude is most appreciated, and please know that I feel quite honored. Even including my daughter, being hugged by a princess even metaphysically is hardly an everyday occurrence for a grumpy old bear like me. I must confess to having taken the liberty of reading our file on you, and after a thorough review I don't doubt you have what it takes to make it through this difficult period. I see no reason to drag the past up again for a review of the relevant events, but in short you have been through some tough times before and come out on the other side far better than I would have thought possible, and thus you have my sincere respect. I can only hope that Duchess Villa will show the same strength in the days to come. In your professional opinion as a politician, can she be the leader the UIS needs at this moment? I deeply regret the necessity of asking that question, but though I am by no means an oracle I fear (as I think you do too) for the future of the UIS as a sheep playing a wolf's game.

Let us hope that our fear is unfounded and that our respective gods & goddesses hear our prayers that it is so.

Yours sincerely,
Thomas Cärrino, Emperor

He had a much longer and more personal letter to pen to the Sultana regarding a far more delicate matter, but as that would require a great deal of care & attention it could kick around in the back of his mind until the evening.

by **Mervay** » Tue Jun 15, 2021 10:33 pm

AHSCA wrote:
(Image)

United Island Office of Foreign Affairs (UNIFRO)

Honorable Chancellor,

Thank you for the latest communique from the Kingdom to us. I have relayed your message with Her Royal Highness, Duchess Marcella Villa, and she has agreed to take the time to meet up with your delegation to discuss this matter further. Her Highness would like to apologize for any issues and concern caused to Mervay by this sudden swift diplomatic fallout between our nation and the Sultanate of Kyrenaia and she looks forward to meeting you soon enough. Until then, we shall be in touch.

Noir VinoCacao
On Behalf of Her Highness,
Duchess Marcella Villa

Kyrenaia wrote:
To: Jessica Dileva, Her Majesty's Chancellor/Minister of Foreign Affairs.
From: Azad Safir, Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Qaleatan Maktab, Utica, Ilkhanate of Utica, Sultanate of Kyrenaia.

Diplomatic correspondence.
Not to be released.

Your Excellency,
Your message has been received and the words of both Yourself and Her Majesty the Queen have been relayed to both the Sultana and the Princess. Princess Aurelia was especially moved by the concern for her.
The breakdown of relations concerns us as well, especially in regards to who or what will fill the vacuum we left behind – it is a mess waiting to happen and I sincerely hope, that Marcella-Khana has the strength and willpower to withstand the storms, which will be coming for her.

That being said, both Princess Aurelia and the Sultana have agreed to meet Queen Callista and Prince Pandareos. The Sultana is especially interested in the Young Prince's view of the matter.
Unfortunately, Princess Aurelia intends to return to her duties as Beyeha of Malakiard as soon as possible, but she has allowed me to invite Her Majesty to her residence, the Altinyarat-Palace near Larsa.
Please tell us about any travelling arrangements, which either of them are going to make (as long as they relate to Kyrenaia, of course).

I remain respectfully yours,
Azad Safir,
Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia.

Royal Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Kingdom of Mervay
Ministère royal des Affaires Étrangères du Royaume de Mervay
Ministero Reale Degli Affari Esteri del Regno di Mervay

Encryption Level: CTP10 (Classified-Top Secret)
Time of Response: Urgent
Recipient: Azad Safir, Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Theme of Interest/Concern: Travel Requirements for Her Majesty's and His Highness's State Visit

Minister Zafir. It is with great joy that we are glad to hear that both The Sultana and Princess Aurelia have accepted our request, we do also want to voice our surprise to the fact His Royal Highness was personally requested by the Razia-Sultana in place of Her Majesty as the person she would talk about; however, out of the initial surprise and after deliberations between both members. They had come into an agreement where they will accept the proposed offer. Regarding travel agreements, because of the distance between Utica and Larsa, both members of the state visit will travel on separate airplanes, both of them two T-400 Newliners, while this might seem as an ridiculous advice, we had come into this conclusion by the fact we are not assured that it would be convinient to have the plane land at two locations and wasting valuable time that could be used in to try to find a solution to the problem at hand. It is also adviced that Her Majesty will be staying with Princess Aurelia for three days in order to check on her state and to provide her the necessary support during these dire times for her; the same can be said for His Royal Highness whose arrangement is also for such time period as well, that is in order to convince The Sultana of the need for the negogiations or to the minimum at least, be assured that should retaliation even if unlikely against the isles, that Mervayan Nationals and National Assets are not to be affected; and I may be personally biased here Minister. But should anything happen, the lives of my daughter and daughter in law will be on the line of fire as civilians should this whole debacle continue.

So as you can see Minister, we all have things to lose and worry for; and my apologies to having to add that, but I believed it was necessary to add my motivation, not as Her Majesty's Chancellor, but as woman and as a mother. So I also share the concerns of the domino effect that is to follow over who will fill the vaccum that has appeared from the sudden break of relations; let us hope this is not something that can easily fall into the worse case scenario we all fear.

Should any urgent communique is to be sent, rest assured that it will be answered; but from either the Vice-Chancellor or The Prime Minister himself should he return off his tour from San Salvacion and North Point sooner than expected; as I will be on travel with Her Royal Highness, Princess Circe IV, Princess of Slyvan to the UIS to convince for an peaceful resolution and keep the current breakup on an semblance of cohesion that will not affect Mervayan Interests and will allow for a mediation of our government shall both nations require it.

Without further to add, may Solaria and God help you on these stressful times.
Signed by
- Minister of Foreign Affairs/Her Majesty's Chancellor, Jessica Dileva

Asteria, En Route to it's Outskirts
Vehicles were moving through the new city district, an massive convoy that left that part of the city on an temporal stop when it came to upper transportation since people could still move through the metro or the monorail, yet trams, buses, cars and taxis and trolleybuses that had to pass through the middle of the avenue were requested to wait as the vehicles moved out the city through the coastal avenue that would take them to the outskirts and from there to the forests around the valley where they would take their planes. Her time off at Volci was all cut short, but she promised herself to get back there or other part of the nation to take a break after this and the elections; she'll need it.
After all, for a woman like Agustinas, things like this were normal; yet, she was looking foward to a dreadful tit and tat or who will be the first one to blink, she has to be glad it cannot be multiplied or things would get even worse than what they are already.
The convoy was in fact escorting her, her older sister, her older brother and the Chancellor to the Laciat Air Base where they will take off from their respective planes to their destinies, she could only sigh as she passed through the avenue, Huffton was certainly needed to be opened as soon as they passed through.

"Penny for your thoughts?" A male voice asked, she then glared at who it was and there he is. The Prince that will have to deal with The Sultana. Agus could only sigh again as she thought of how her brother was entering into the Lion's Den as soon as he insisted on accepting the idea; she was fully against it as she believed she should handle this whole part with the head of the sultanate even if she trusted her brother with this affair, he was her counselor after all, her older sisters were busy with the foundation and yet she was thankfully able to bring Ari into this whole situation; she has always been a woman with a personal touch and she could perhaps do more help there in the isles for this meeting with the chancellor; who was busy having a phone call with her daughter who's yet in the islands; she didn't doubted Tess's ability to be able to be on college and be on an accelerated course and yet pass it smartly without trouble, that was the heiress to the Dileva Group after all.

"Thinking on this whole mess..." She said, looking out at the window and noticing how people was taking videos and photos of the convoy passing through the streets of the city, this will end on the news for sure. "I can't believe you decided into going to the Lion's Den? Do you know how vindictive they can be if their pride and honour is on stake?" She asked, her brother had to do a lot of convincing and would own her a lot of favours for him taking in the offer; she trusted Luci; he was a man which was as deep as in this whole affair as she was; they always watched each other's backs and while he had an special bond with his twin, both of them also had an bond like an older brother would have for an older sister. He stared at her, smiling back before barking a little laugh.

"Well, that's what make this interesting; time is on the essence and right now we are working under a clock." He told her, smiling as he thought of it, it was more of interest in the whole affair rather than for some kind of thrill or anything like that. "We have three days to convince the Kyrenaians of taking this offer and should it fail we will have to try through different methods and assuring Mervayan Nationals won't be hurt in any retaliation, albeit; I do wonder how I will have to pass through should the biggest opposition she has appears, after all there is people asking for blood there even if a minority, they could become a majority should something massive happen." That put him into thought, the whole idea did made sense, it was only a matter of time anyone who couldn't resist their hands off the trigger did something like that, it was not a matter of who, but when.

"I'll sure you'll manage to find a way, that's our speciality." The oldest of the silbings spoke, Princess Circe, or personally known as Princess Ariadna. She was 25 years old and one of the most active members (Even if all had very important jobs and help the other) of the Royal Family, mostly related to the Da Mervay Foundation and the day by day managment of the family with her parents help and her silbings as well, most of the time from the pair of twins than Agus herself. "We had gone through other dire moments as well and we came out alright, so I think this will be the same." She smiled, obviously referencing at how their father almost died back in 2012 in Yuktobania, it was a miracle mom wasn't in the plane because of a charity event for the war refugees of the Apoptos-Yuktobania border back in Arcadia, but they were glad their father came out without physical injuries.

The two of them smiled and nodded at her words, she was certaily right on that area, they will prevail over this surprising crisis and so they laughed. After that small moment, the atmosphere changed from a more tense and quiet ambient to an noisy yet cheerful one, thanks in part to them deciding to leave work aside for a moment and let themselves off from the responsabilities they have. It was an nice change of pace for what was an mess of a day as she had to leave quickly from Volci in the Royal Train; conctacting her silbings for this help, debating with her brother over the offer the sultana made; returning to the palace and having a quick press conference about the situation; and then she had to deal with an emergency meeting regarding the situation and what to do in case of an outbreak of hostilities in the area, the Prime Minister present through a videocall on North Point alongside the North Pointian Prime Executive on a joint meeting between the two nations. Then calling the electoral candidates for the Premiership Position, all of them party leaders to wish them good luck in the elections, then a videocall with the independents to do the same; and a videocall with the ARAP Candidate for the Ardens Premiership alongside the Grand Dukes of Ardens and the Crown Princess... All of that in an span of 12 hours since everything begun yesterday and she at least was able to rest there in the mountains.

She will certainly take advantage of the rest she'll have on the plane en route to the Khanate of Khond while her brother makes an direct stop in Utica; her sister and the chancellor in the other hand will be en route to the Aurora Village, landing on the Embassy Isle before making their way to Aurora. By request and also safety of course, those going to The Sultanate will go with Black Knights soldiers or Mirage agents that will be dressed as maids and butlers, the number kept on a realistic one but enough to provide them with safety shall things go south by any reason. The Aurora Plane however, it will have an more direct approach with it's safety dressed like required by standards rather than use a disguise of any means.

Just a few minutes later after leaving the city for it's outskirts around the forest, they went through a road that led to an military facility; soldiers gave their salute to the people leaving out the vehicles the moment it stopped; three planes were prepared two for Kyrenaia and one for AHSCA, government press prepared to take the pictures and video that were being sent to the media and so on. An organized movement was maintained to accelerate the process on which the planes will leave. The Chancellor finally cut the call out, it appear she had a long conversation with her daughter about what could go down and how she was worried, she wasn't the only one by the looks of as it was like a videocall, Mr. Dileva was surely there and while not an person that was part of the government and that meant that he didn't knew the whole story, on paper.
On practice and considering what could happen if all went downhill, the three of them had a long talk as a family, the parents sharing their concern for their daughter even if she was old and not living under their roof; she in kind answered assuring that it would all be fine; she owned her friend a call, it was the least she could do now that she has been busy and it would be nice to talk with her as well. Then, out of sudden, flashes begun to appear and they were on live television for the nation.

The silbings and the chancellor, a woman they knew since their childhood moved together and gave the other a group hug, as a sign of good luck before breaking off; Callista speaking out.

"Remember that we must keep in contact, as soon as we return we'll have an general meeting regarding the overall advance of the efforts, understood??" They all nodded in agreement, noticing well how quick they had to be. Perhaps they could be paranoic or perhaps it was the habit, but one thing was for certain, a quick and decisive reaction could salvage the whole affair.

A few minutes after everyone was in their respective flights, one by one, at the eye of the cameras and to the eyes of the nation the planes begun to take off. First it was the Chancellor's and Princess Circe's plane, then followed by His Highness plane to Utica, and at last, Her Majesty's plane to Khond; for the next three days; diplomacy will do it's job.

WKZ NEWS

Breaking News: Massive Mervayan Diplomatic Intervention

After today's declaration by Her Royal Majesty, The Kingdom of Mervay is officially increasing it's intervention in the Diplomatic Fallout between The United Island States of AHSCA and The Sultanate of Kyrenaia by sending delegations to AHSCA and Kyrenaia, the former led by Her Royal Highness, Princess Circe IV and Chancellor Jessica Dileva; while the latter is being led by Her Majesty herself and His Royal Highness, Prince Pandareos III. The relationship fell down after Razia Sultana Umm Albilad, Sultana of Kyrenaia officially ended the relationship between The UIS Duchess, Marcella Villa and Kyrenaia's Princess, Aurelia bint-Damir. The situation deteriorated after Duchess Villa abruptly ended her state meeting with the Kyrenaian Delegationand officially declaring The Sultana as Persona Non Grata, alongside announcing an cease of diplomatic and military relations between the two countries alongside the explusion of all diplomatic and military personnel from Utica off the Islands.
It is yet to be see which will be the current winner of the fallout; but, it is clear to many that both nations won't get out unharmed of this affair as various governments presented their concerns, between them The Federalis Imperium of Astares Amauricanum, The Empire of Brettenwald and Mervay; it is expected that more nations close to The UIS and The Sultanate voice their concerns as well during the upcoming days, but many believe that it will be a diplmatic battle for the influence that Kyrenaia lost in the UIS and some point to The Astarian Government as a possible candidate and is yet to be seen who joins the scramble.

In regards to Kyrenaia, The Sultana has gained the needed political points she needed after the nation was hit hard by the COVID-19 Pandemic in an attempt to keep an house united; Princess Aurelia, whose open relationship with Duchess Villa, an bi-sexual and one of the important members fighting for an change on the marriage law in favour of the LGBT Community on The Sultanate has been the point of discussion among the more conservative elements of the nation's society and as such she was seen as a viable candidate to show that the nation was in order and to keep the nation united during these times. It is not the first scandal for the Princess as she had been involved on some of them before; the first one being the Fiafia Scandal which in turn was followed by the accusations that followed where it has been said she was in an relationship with her father, Prince Damir ibn-Razia which had been denied to the most lattest incident where she was one of the victims of the tragic 2019 Al'Arz Terrorist Attack on which 12 people died many were injured. It appears that for the Princess, another scandal can be added to her list and hopefully it will be the last one. As for the Sultana, while as controversial as it might be her decision, it also gifted the political support she needed; however, now that the whole scandal is afloat and considering how tense the situation might be, many wonder what will be the next move as some have called in for retaliation against the island state; time will tell, but it is with hope that nothing serious will come out of it.

Meanwhile in regards to AHSCA, the nation has lost one of it's key allies and now is on an free for all between various powers over who will take that spot; Duchess Marcella Villa has certainly made an controversial decision which people could think off that has also opened the door to many who desire to expand it's influence in the UIS. This isn't the first scandal we report of The UIS after we reported back in January how there were rumours of a possible dismissal of Foreign Minister, Noir VinoCacao; which this media considered as an impossibility and unlikely scenario to happen. However, it appears this scandal might be the biggest Duchess Villa will have to navigate and only the goddesses will tell if she survived the storm.

We will continue to report this through this website and news channel as it continues.

Note by Manny Janneson

by **Brettenwald** » Wed Jun 16, 2021 12:52 am

To: Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad, Sultana of Kyrenaia
Security level: Epsilon
Subject to Gov't Transparency Act 1997: No

Your Highness,

I must confess to feeling slightly embarrassed at asking a fellow world leader for personal advice, especially as the face I present to my people is a rather proud and independent one, but I find that I have no other obvious recourse. Strictly speaking I suppose I should be addressing this letter to your son Prince Damir as this concerns my role as a father, but since from what I know you have had more to do with your granddaughter's personal controversies than he has I will consider you a greater authority as I find myself in a somewhat similar situation to you, the Prince and Aurelia as far as my son and his personal leanings are concerned. I will now dispense with the cryptic formality, if I may, and come straight to the point. My son Marco is bisexual and wishes to- I believe the colloquial term is "come out of the closet" -make that fact known to the world. He entrusted his siblings and myself with that knowledge ten years ago, but my failings as a father have forced him back into his shell since then. It is a terrible thing to know that your child is deeply and desperately unhappy and an even more terrible thing to know that the blame for it lies squarely on your shoulders. I will carry the shame of my words and actions to my grave. I called my own son a disgusting pervert, threatened to expel him from the line of succession, and kicked him out of the palace. He attempted suicide via a drug and alcohol overdose two years later. He has not expressed a willingness to talk about the matter even once since then, and I fear that I have let the personal biases I hold drive my son away from me forever.

I feel it prudent to explain the aforementioned personal biases lest you think me one of those tract-thumping evangelicals who thinks everyone who so much as thinks about conjugal relations with the same sex should be lined up against a wall and shot. I used to be closer to that stance than I care to admit, but I held my fire when same-sex marriage was legalized here in 2002 largely to avoid getting myself even deeper in our progressives' black books. Age, what I hope will prove to be wisdom, and my son's revelation have tempered my opinions considerably since then. I see no reason why homosexual individuals should be denied equal rights and protection under the law, but it is my personal belief that the gods designed male and female for female and male and that what happens in the bedroom between consenting individuals should stay there. Love strikes me as being the central issue in this situation. I deeply love Marco, as I do all my children, and for that reason I find myself caught between a rock and a hard place. For the sake of his reputation and his future in a country where non-heterosexuality is still stigmatized (albeit to a much lesser degree than in your country), I have no desire to see him potentially sabotage his political career for something that I simply don't understand. On the other hand, I feel that giving my blessing for him to go ahead would hopefully go at least a little way toward making up for my past words & actions and the hell of my creation that he has been living in for the past decade, and this option also counts in its favor the advantage of preexisting battle plans for both orchestration of the revelation and containment of the ensuing PR fallout.

Love on my son's part is also responsible for the decision I now face, for the light I see in his eyes when he talks about the man he is currently in a relationship with is the same one my father told me he saw in mine after I first met my late wife. Rohan comes from a respectable & highly regarded if impecunious family and is a rising star in the world of the theatre, and despite actors being in my opinion a bunch of communist layabouts I trust completely in my son's judgment of his character. The two are aware that the necessity of succession precludes their marriage, if indeed my son and his reputation as something of a rake ever brought that into consideration in the first place. Finally, I wish to sincerely apologize for imposing on you at a rather difficult time, but as my head and heart are currently in a total stalemate I must do something about it.

I remain sincerely, Your Highness,
Emperor Thomas Cärrino of Brettenwald

by **Lamoni** » Sun Jun 20, 2021 3:25 am

OOC Note: I am entering this RP at the request of AHSCA, mostly just to protect the islands from attack, though if someone wants a side story or something, we can work something out. This first post is also likely to be a short one, intended to get my foot in the door, more than anything else.

*************************************************

Admiral Wilkinson had been looking forward to making it home after a lengthy overseas deployment, capped off by performing interoperability training with the UISDF's Navy. While AHSCA always made for an excellent liberty stop, and the training exercises had gone well, the ships and men of the FRLS Arcturus carrier battlegroup were looking toward the comforts of home. Such expectations changed however, when Duchess Marcella had made her move, and made all of the archipelagic nation's relations with Kyrenaia go up in smoke.

Within hours, the Admiral had been sent new orders. He and his carrier group would remain near AHSCA. They were to remain alert, and ensure that no one tried to invade the allied nation. Fleet logistics ships would resupply the Admiral's ships as needed, though everyone hoped that this would all be over before the week ended, with no one succumbing to violence. The Admiral's orders also stated that the Free Republic's government was seriously considering the purchase of new and improved defensive weaponry with which to equip the UISDF, the threat posed by states like Kyrenaia and Stevid in mind, though that would also depend on the cooperation of the AHSCAn government.

The relationship between the Free Republic of Lamoni and AHSCA was a strong one, with Lamoni assisting in the defense of the islands. The islands also served the purpose of being in strategic location that would allow AHSCA to see an invasion force from outside of the region coming, and allow Lamoni time to prepare to meet and destroy said invasion force. It was also always a good thing to have relatively happy neighbors. In exchange, Lamonians were encouraged to play tourist in AHSCA, which helped to build up the coffers of the AHSCAn state. Trade between the nations also followed, and things had turned out well for all involved.

So now that there was a potential threat to the islanders, it was once again the duty of the Lamonians to come to their defense. Walking over to the aircraft carrier's communications room, he ordered the technicians working there to draft messages to the UISDF as well as the Duchess, informing them that the carrier group would remain nearby, in case Marcella's outburst had more negative effects than anyone expected. This was of course, conveyed much more diplomatically, in the messages themselves.

by **Astares Amauricanum** » Sun Jun 20, 2021 7:15 am

The bunker complex underneath the Silver Palace.
Columbia District

In a secure conference room, away from privy ears thanks to a jamming system and other countermeasures, the Imperial Couple is having an important meeting.

In the room with Adrean and Anna, are three people who handle the Imperium's foreign intelligence.
First of all, General Ronal Petraeus, Director of the Astares Centralis IntelLigentsia, or ACI. Next to him, Vice Admiral Orjum Sostak, Diretor of the Forsvar Intelligentsia, or Defense Intelligence, the military's intelligence agency. And finally, Keiserlig Custos Lieutenant General Manuel Stratelli, Director of the Keiserlig Custos Investigatio, the Intelligence and Police Agency of the Imperial Guard.

"So, gentlemen, what's new regarding the situation in the UIS?" asks Adrean from the start to his three agency directors.

"We have picked up a surge in electronic activity back and forth between the Mervayan embassy and their mainland. Given they are close allies of both the UIS and Kyrenaia at the same time, this is surely seen as a problem for them. And you saw their official communiqué, they offer themselves as a mediator between both parties." replies Petraeus first, before taking a deep breath and letting a beat pass.
"However, we also intercepted and decoded some encrypted messages between Kyrenaia, Mervay, and the Empire of Brettenwald as well. Here is a copy of them." he says as he hands some folders to Adrean and Anna.

Royal Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Kingdom of Mervay
Ministère royal des Affaires Étrangères du Royaume de Mervay
Ministero Reale Degli Affari Esteri del Regno di Mervay

Encryption Level: CTP10 (Classified-Top Secret)
Time of Response: Urgent
Recipient: Azad Safir, Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Theme of Interest/Concern: Travel Requirements for Her Majesty's and His Highness's State Visit
Minister Zafir. It is with great joy that we are glad to hear that both The Sultana and Princess Aurelia have accepted our request, we do also want to voice our surprise to the fact His Royal Highness was personally requested by the Razia-Sultana in place of Her Majesty as the person she would talk about; however, out of the initial surprise and after deliberations between both members. They had come into an agreement where they will accept the proposed offer. Regarding travel agreements, because of the distance between Utica and Larsa, both members of the state visit will travel on separate airplanes, both of them two T-400 Newliners, while this might seem as an ridiculous advice, we had come into this conclusion by the fact we are not assured that it would be convinient to have the plane land at two locations and wasting valuable time that could be used in to try to find a solution to the problem at hand. It is also adviced that Her Majesty will be staying with Princess Aurelia for three days in order to check on her state and to provide her the necessary support during these dire times for her; the same can be said for His Royal Highness whose arrangement is also for such time period as well, that is in order to convince The Sultana of the need for the negogiations or to the minimum at least, be assured that should retaliation even if unlikely against the isles, that Mervayan Nationals and National Assets are not to be affected; and I may be personally biased here Minister. But should anything happen, the lives of my daughter and daughter in law will be on the line of fire as civilians should this whole debacle continue.

So as you can see Minister, we all have things to lose and worry for; and my apologies to having to add that, but I believed it was necessary to add my motivation, not as Her Majesty's Chancellor, but as woman and as a mother. So I also share the concerns of the domino effect that is to follow over who will fill the vaccum that has appeared from the sudden break of relations; let us hope this is not something that can easily fall into the worse case scenario we all fear.

Should any urgent communique is to be sent, rest assured that it will be answered; but from either the Vice-Chancellor or The Prime Minister himself should he return off his tour from San Salvacion and North Point sooner than expected; as I will be on travel with Her Royal Highness, Princess Circe IV, Princess of Slyvan to the UIS to convince for an peaceful resolution and keep the current breakup on an semblance of cohesion that will not affect Mervayan Interests and will allow for a mediation of our government shall both nations require it.

Without further to add, may Solaria and God help you on these stressful times.
Signed by
- Minister of Foreign Affairs/Her Majesty's Chancellor, Jessica Dileva

Adrean and Anna take a quick look at the messages, especially the one from Morvan to Safir. In answer, Adrean simply sighs, before looking back to the three Directors.
"The Brets think they've only poked the bear, they've awoken the Wolf. Minister Morvan dares calling us agressors while we have done nothing concrete. If this message had not been encrypted, I would show it to the face of the world right here and there. But we can't do that."

"Indeed." adds Anna with a somber tone. "Director Petraeus, please have some of your teams prepare some eletronic attacks for payback against Brettenwald. Nothing harmful however, we won't tolerate casualties or damage. But try to see if you can't flood their systems with silly memes or smutty pop ups." adds the Keisaerina with a small grin.

"Immaturity at its finest eh?" asks the ACI Director with a small laugh. "All right Your Majesties, I will try to see what we can do."

"Thanks." answers Adrean. "Alright, back to the topic at hand."

"On the matter of military assets, we found something interesting." continues General Sostak. "The RKN Eanqa and her escort destroyers are conducting a maritime patrol east of the UIS. While they are within range of the UIS, they're not in position to threaten it, while the Malditas are not concerned. Secretary Barrera ordered Admiral Mc Awarall to put additional fighters on alert, as well as some bombers armed with anti-ship missiles.
However, we picked something interesting: apparently, a lone helicopter coming from the carrier has made a trip back and forth to the Rashiq. Just after the chopper came back, a Baghl was seen taking off by our satellites. apparently flying towards Oea. Our analysts think that the Sultana and some other VIPs aboard were picked up to be back in Utica earlier than expected. This would also confirm the information in the messages that were being decoded., about her and Aurelia meeting with Callista and Pandareos."

"Thank you Gentlemen." replies Anna as she looks again to all the documents laid out before her alongside her husband. After a few more seconds, the Imperial Couple looks at each other, then sighs.

"Your call honey." asks Anna to her husband.

"A open communiqué answering everyone's concern, in polite but firm terms. In the meantime, Ronald, deploy the emergency Special Activities group and the technical guys to the UIS. Tell also Daniel to get his ass ASAP on Aurora, and meet with the Duchess. Have him force doors if he needs to. And also, continue to prepare the coordination with the Shadow Knights before their deployment to Kyrenaia."

"Aye Your Majesties." simply replies Petraeus with a nod.

"Good, anything else?" asks the Keisaerina, to which Petraeus, Sostak and Stratelli answer no. "Then you are dismissed. Thank you all for your work." she adds, before the three men salute and leave the room.

"Now, let's answer to Aurelia first, shall we?" she asks Adrean, to which her husband simply nods.

Dear Aurelia,
Thabk you for your invitation. To be honest with you, if we come to Kyrenaia, comforting a girl with a broken heart first before meeting the Court at the Azure Hall would be a welcomed thing for us. As you have your Dad and others at your side already, it's good to know for us you are not alone.
We will try to make a VOIP call one of these days. However, as you are surely aware, other players are stepping in in this diplomatic matter, and as politicians, we have to get involved in it. We sincerily hope that in this dispute, everyone will keep a cool head and be reasonable.

A big hug to you too.
Adrean and Anna.

PS: We submitted your idea to Foxter, and while he considered it tempting, he prefers to keep the "-ter" He says that he is a fox with three tails, hence the "ter" in his name.
(If you're finding this joke lame, know that you're not the only one. )

Official Communiqué of Their Imperial Majesties, Keisaer Adrean Blachkor The Third, Son of the Imperium, Master of the Appalachia, Conqueror of the Rockyes, Lord of the Plains and Tamer of the Frost, and Keisaerina Anna Blachkor, Daughter of the Empire, Highest Servant of the Stars.

Greetings.
It has been quite some time since We last wrote a communiqué by Ourselves, but the situation We find Ourselves in had mandated it.

First of all, We would like to adress one of the main issues some nations and their leaders who are involved, or have involved themselves in this matter of state, have regarding Our nation. This issue being our presence and seizure of the archipelago known as the Islas Malditas, and how this would give Our nation an advantage to move Our pawns in the United Island States of AHSCA.
We do not have to remind everyone that according to the international principle of Terra Nullius, if some land does not belong to any sovereign nation and is not claimed by any, then it is in one nation's right to claim that piece of land fr themselves. That is what we did with the Islas Malditas. And while the military buildup we enacted in the following months may have surely appeared threatening to our new neighbors (something We truly understand, and are sorry about.), We have to repeat once again that this was only done to protect this new Astarian territory, whom is surely known by now as being a treasure trove for ressources.

And while We could have theorically used these military assets to threaten the UIS in any way, shape or form, and extend our influence by strong means, e didn't. Instead, we established a peaceful contact with Duchess Marcella Villa and her government, we signed some treaties, one of them being the gift of three hospital ships free of charge to the UIS Navy, etc. We could have asked for something in exchange, like a direct foothold in the UIS like some nations already have (or had), but we didn't. Why? Because the Malditas are already more than enough for us.
Although the corresponding documents have yet to be declassified, We can assure everyone that back in 2019, when we established our presence in the Malditas, oe of our nation's plan was to settle in our corner and not interact with anyone else. Sure, we would have appeared threatening to our neighbors, but over time, they would have come to see that Our nation was not the threat they thought it was. It seems that even though we tried instead to interact, some will always consider us as a potential threat to the stability of the region. We sincerily hope that with some time, they will see that their fears are unfounded.

In the end though, We are surprised by the collective reactions this downfall of relations has triggered. While We do not deny that this affair is far from being trivial in terms of diplomacy, We feel people and nations are overreacting. We don't want to hide it, but for example, our dear friends from Mervay requesting an urgent meeting in person with the Kyrenaian and AHSCAian authorities has made quite a few eyebrows rise in the Astarian political circles.

Based on Our experience, We can assure everyone that situations like this, where everyone seemingly panicks and tries to work a solution in a frantic way, presents a greater risk to aggravate the situation itself rather than solve it with minimal damage. Everyone needs to keep calm, or this could very well to the outcome everyone is fearing. As the saying goes: "The portal to hell is opened with the incantations of good intentions."
May everyone involved in this dispute remember those words from now on.

May Ymir watch over us all and guide us through this endevaour.

Signed,
Keisaer Adrean Blachkor
Keisaerina Anna Blachkor.

Embassy Isle

An white unmarked, bi-reactor commercial airliner lands on the Isle's airfield. After the plane has taxied to its parking spot, the door opens and out come a certain number of people, at least a hundred would say external observers. Dressed in generic, casual civilian clothing
With the help of some AHSCA workers, they load their belongings on some trucks, before driving towards the different compounds of the Isle, and entering a generic building without any word...

Aurora Village.

After a quick trip by helicopter, Daniel Vincao has landed in the UIS capital. Immediatly after having received some decoded messages between the other nations involved in this dispute, he had requested an urgent meeting with the Duchess.No doubt she would accept being informed of some of the things happening between greater powers.

After a short trip from the helicopter landing zone to the Ducal Palace, Daniel, wearing a standard polo shirt, cargo pants and a bagpack, approaches the Palace's doors.

"Hey." he simply says to the Royal Guards guarding the entrance. "May I see the Duchess now? It's pretty urgent." he says as he shows them his ID.

by **Kyrenaia** » Sun Jun 20, 2021 10:23 am

Two days later, Altinyarat-Palace, Malakiard, Khanate of Khond.
Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
The Altinyarat-Palace was around five centuries old, having changed ownership multiple times. Overlooking one of the major fords, and by now bridges, of the Saghara River, it was at a wonderful strategic position to control trade and commerce, especially since upstream, there were the iron pits of Beitruna. The Saghara River also marked the border between the Khanate of Khond, and thus the Ilkhanate of Utica, and the Ilkhanate of Kyrene.
In times long past, it has been an important post for the collection of tolls and, with the small fortification on the river island of Nahriarat, that function had a grim reminder.
The Altinyarat-Palace, on the other hand, was on Khond's side of the river, on a small cliff. Its original function as a fortification was a memory of the past, but the curtain wall at the foot of the cliff was still there and manned. It overlooked three major bridges, one for railways, two for motor vehicles, as well as the river itself. Nahriarat Fortress was fully accessible to tourists and the small museum of the fortress was a tourist magnet, while my own palace on the cliffs up high was not, especially not these days.
It was a centre of rulership, in this case of the Beyeha of Malakiard, and there wasn't much to look at anyway.
The main living building was at the edge of the cliff, the old citadel having been repurposed a long time ago, while the administrative buildings were outside the last curtain wall, in the bailey. The citadel was, by now, my private sanctum.
My office was in a tower at the bailey.
I stood at its window and wondered. In my hands, I held the letter of Emperor Thomas of Brettenwald, a wonderful letter, full of praises for me – when some of the achievements, like me getting through the tough times of the Fiafia-Scandal and the death of my mother, were not my achievement... especially with the former, I had the support of my Father and of a little puppy, who hadn't been little for a while now and who slept in his basket.
I stood at the window and looked outside. Someone had to use serious firepower to get through that window (truth being told, it might be easier to go through the wall, if I saw that correctly).
I had a splendid view of the area in front of the Main Gates and the walls, beyong which a free zone of around a hundred meters came – then, Malakiard itself, a small town with ten thousand inhabitants, famous for its fig plantations, who would have never dreamed to see such an assembly in front of the Altinyarat-Palace.
A few thousand, according to Captain Hamia of the local detachment of the Tabardariyya, people, protestors, who were here for one thing: Either to show their support for me – or their disdain. Larsa had sent a onehundred men strong detachment of the Police Special Forces to keep the two camps separated, but it was all peaceful anyway.
At least the leaders of the Disdain-Camp had taken down the banner reading Hang the Bitch-Princess! quite quickly.
There were also people there, who were for or against the Change in the Law of Marriage, allowing for Homosexual Marriage. They had their own banners, one asking, if I would continue my work with the Movement. It was on the Disdain-Camp's side.
Of course I would.
The last two days, ever since the departure from the Rashiq, had been hectic, though, and I just wanted to finish the work day and take a nice, long, relaxing bath in the Hammam of the Altinyarat-Palace.
I looked forward to it, too, mainly because with some luck, I could have a cat with me: Callista had, according to the latest report, touched down in Larsa International (her brother would be meeting Grandmother) and was on her way here. She had been my friend ever since the State Visit last year, I had wanted to show her to this here place, too.
Her motorcade was inconspicuous, a limousine, a few cars of different makes as escorts, all manned by the Tabardariyya. It was not a huge state visit, but a smaller personal one, so no huge motorcade with a number of vehicles only Manat knew.
Until they would arrive, I would have to write my reply to Emperor Thomas.
One thought dominated my head: Was Marcella the right ruler for the UIS right now?
I sat down and began to write, using ink and a fountain pen as well, though my ink was of a deep, luxurious red. Associations with a woman's lips, strawberries, wine or tomato sauce could be made, but I knew, which association I preferred.

Dear Emperor Thomas,

I want to be honest with you: I would not have come out of the pickles I have been in they way I did without my Father, without my trusty Sand Wolf Aldhiyb and without my Handmaiden Sarina. I am positive, that they will help me through these tough times as well and that my stepmother Yasmin will be right with them – in fact, they already do, as do other friends of mine.

Now, as for your question – no.
Please do not get me wrong, Marcella is a woman with a beautiful mind and soul, strong and fierce, but despite all the love I still feel for her, she is not the right woman in these trying times for the UIS.
She lacks the experience to handle the mess, that was made by both her and my Grandmother, she lacks the resources to do so effectively, she lacks the corresponding government and I fear, that right now, she chased the foxes out of the chicken coop only to let the wolves in. I pray, that she realized that before it is too late and acts accordingly, swallowing her pride.

With a kind hug,
Aurelia bint-Damir,
Princess of the Ilkhanate of Utica and Beyeha of Malakiard.

I looked at the letter, written in fluid and fine cursive and with the deep red ink, which I preferred for my personal correspondence. I looked at it and thought, that it didn't look like lips, wine or strawberries, but like blood.
I folded it and put it into the out-box, I'd have to send it via the Foreign Ministry.
Someone knocked.
“Come in.”, I called and smiled as my Handmaiden Sarina entered, a letter in her hand, “What do you have for me?”
“Fan mail.”, she said, looked at my frown, and shook her head. “This one might be interesting to you.”
It was the of the Princess Aurelia Fanclub of AHSCA. Oh, dear... I read...

Leaning back in my chair, I swallowed once, then twice.
Sarina got a tissue, handed it to me, I took it without thinking.
This was the end, then. Marcella and I were now officially apart, not only by the will of my Grandmother, but also by her own admission. What else was left to me other then to accept it? What was left to me other then to move on?
Sarina's arms wrapped around me from behind, pulled me closer.
“I will not cry.”, I told her, “Not yet, not now. Callista will soon be here and the blasted photographer...” My voice cracked, I cleared it. “...not yet. Not now.”
Sarina held me for a moment, I took her hand.
“I have to reply, don't I?”, I said and reached for my pen again.
Sarina's hand stopped me. “Maybe it would be better, if you would wait with that until tomorrow?”
I thought for a moment, then shook my head. “No, today.”
I got to work, using the same, red ink:

Dear Marcella,

this is it, then, isn't it? It was a beautiful dream while it lasted, but the night ends and gives way to the day and to reality for everyone.
I do not know, what I am sorry for, but I know, that I am.

Whatever happens, however: I implore you, Marcella – please swallow your pride. Ask Grandmother for forgiveness, to put it all behind you, and I promise, all will be well.

Signed,
Aurelia bint-Damir,
Princess of the Ilkhanate of Utica and Beyeha of Malakiard.

P.S.: Please give Gisella a hug from me, as well as a big kiss on her cheek.

I looked at the reply I had written and nodded. “Send it from Amina's place.”
Sarina nodded. “It will be done.”, she said and turned, “Oh, and the motorcade of Queen Callista will be here in a few minutes.”
I nodded and grinned, though I did not know, if it reached my eyes.
“Wonderful, thank you!”
And off I was, reuniting with my friend at the steps of the Citadel, of my personal, private residence and sanctuary. Maybe I would be able to have a bath later today as well? Maybe Callista would join me? Though something to eat might be nice, too...
...however, one thing slipped my notice.
The receipt stamp on the letter was from two days ago. I had been back in office yesterday. Usually, important fan mail was shown to me immediately. I knew, that no one was beyond corruption, it was only a question of the price, but I usually believed, that Tabardariyya and Handmaidens were very expensive.
I did not know, that Marcella's letter had also gone somewhere else – the end result would be interesting to see...

Office of the Sultana, Palace of the Azure Hall, Utica.
Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad.
Around the same time, that Aurelia was writing her messages, I had written one, too.
However, I had used blue ink to write to Emperor Thomas and to reply to his request for advice.

To: Emperor Thomas Cärrino of Brettenwald.
From: Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad, Sultana of Kyrenaia and Lady of the Five Deserts.

Personal Correspondence.
Not to be released.

Your Highness,
as far as I am concerned, I don't think, that you should feel embarrassed. We Kyrenaians see asking for advice when one has to not as a weakness – rather as a strength, as Wisdom includes knowing, when one is out of one's depth.
Please also allow me to clear a small misconception: Damir deals with the controversies surrounding Aurelia's leanings as her Father, I deal with the fallout as her Matriarch. And Aurelia herself deals with whatever is left. In time, the roles will shift.
Lastly, I want you to praise every deity, which mean something to you, for one, simple fact: Your son approached you and the rest of your family, told you of his secret, and is now planning to, by his own free will, tell the world who and what he is. Aurelia did not have that luxury and neither did I. I learned of my granddaughter's leanings from a newspaper cover depicting her having intercourse with another girl, who rose to be some sort of national heroine in her homecountry. Aurelia got to know of her secret being out by a very, very angry headmistress storming into her room.
I do not want to go into too much detail here, but I fear, that I failed my Son and my Granddaughter twice in those days, both as Sultana and as Mother/Grandmother. And I also fear, that I hurt both of them in the UIS, but at the end of the day, I had good reasons for why I decided and acted the way I did and I stand by that record.

However, allow me to let you in on a secret: Aurelia once showed me the love letters Marcella wrote to her. I saw the love, that this woman had for my granddaughter, maybe even still has, but while I acknowledge, that this love existed and was real, I was born in a different time. I do not doubt, that your son loves his boyfriend as well.

There is only advice I can give you: Be there for him. Support him in any way you see fit and if it is only cleaning up the mess left after the 'Big Reveal.' Then you would do far better already then I did.

I remain respectfully yours,
Razia,
Sultana of Kyrenaia.

P.S.: If you wish, I can ask Damir, if he has advice for you.

I looked at the letter and sighed.
There was more in this then I was comfortable with, but it needed to be said. I put the letter away and wanted to go at the next thing, when someone knocked on my door.
“Enter.”
It was Ilia Jamkiya, one of the most well-known faces of the Chandshar, Kyrenaia's foreign intelligence service. He was followed by Damir and Azad Safir, my Minister of Foreign Affairs. He had done excellent work and he was quite dependable – there might be a reward for in the cards, soon.
I looked at Jamkiya. “Every time you enter this office, something has gone wrong. What is it this time?”

Astares Amauricanum wrote:[...]

Dear Aurelia,
Thabk you for your invitation. To be honest with you, if we come to Kyrenaia, comforting a girl with a broken heart first before meeting the Court at the Azure Hall would be a welcomed thing for us. As you have your Dad and others at your side already, it's good to know for us you are not alone.
We will try to make a VOIP call one of these days. However, as you are surely aware, other players are stepping in in this diplomatic matter, and as politicians, we have to get involved in it. We sincerily hope that in this dispute, everyone will keep a cool head and be reasonable.

A big hug to you too.
Adrean and Anna.

PS: We submitted your idea to Foxter, and while he considered it tempting, he prefers to keep the "-ter" He says that he is a fox with three tails, hence the "ter" in his name.
(If you're finding this joke lame, know that you're not the only one. )

Official Communiqué of Their Imperial Majesties, Keisaer Adrean Blachkor The Third, Son of the Imperium, Master of the Appalachia, Conqueror of the Rockyes, Lord of the Plains and Tamer of the Frost, and Keisaerina Anna Blachkor, Daughter of the Empire, Highest Servant of the Stars.

Greetings.
It has been quite some time since We last wrote a communiqué by Ourselves, but the situation We find Ourselves in had mandated it.

First of all, We would like to adress one of the main issues some nations and their leaders who are involved, or have involved themselves in this matter of state, have regarding Our nation. This issue being our presence and seizure of the archipelago known as the Islas Malditas, and how this would give Our nation an advantage to move Our pawns in the United Island States of AHSCA.
We do not have to remind everyone that according to the international principle of Terra Nullius, if some land does not belong to any sovereign nation and is not claimed by any, then it is in one nation's right to claim that piece of land fr themselves. That is what we did with the Islas Malditas. And while the military buildup we enacted in the following months may have surely appeared threatening to our new neighbors (something We truly understand, and are sorry about.), We have to repeat once again that this was only done to protect this new Astarian territory, whom is surely known by now as being a treasure trove for ressources.

And while We could have theorically used these military assets to threaten the UIS in any way, shape or form, and extend our influence by strong means, e didn't. Instead, we established a peaceful contact with Duchess Marcella Villa and her government, we signed some treaties, one of them being the gift of three hospital ships free of charge to the UIS Navy, etc. We could have asked for something in exchange, like a direct foothold in the UIS like some nations already have (or had), but we didn't. Why? Because the Malditas are already more than enough for us.
Although the corresponding documents have yet to be declassified, We can assure everyone that back in 2019, when we established our presence in the Malditas, oe of our nation's plan was to settle in our corner and not interact with anyone else. Sure, we would have appeared threatening to our neighbors, but over time, they would have come to see that Our nation was not the threat they thought it was. It seems that even though we tried instead to interact, some will always consider us as a potential threat to the stability of the region. We sincerily hope that with some time, they will see that their fears are unfounded.

In the end though, We are surprised by the collective reactions this downfall of relations has triggered. While We do not deny that this affair is far from being trivial in terms of diplomacy, We feel people and nations are overreacting. We don't want to hide it, but for example, our dear friends from Mervay requesting an urgent meeting in person with the Kyrenaian and AHSCAian authorities has made quite a few eyebrows rise in the Astarian political circles.

Based on Our experience, We can assure everyone that situations like this, where everyone seemingly panicks and tries to work a solution in a frantic way, presents a greater risk to aggravate the situation itself rather than solve it with minimal damage. Everyone needs to keep calm, or this could very well to the outcome everyone is fearing. As the saying goes: "The portal to hell is opened with the incantations of good intentions."
May everyone involved in this dispute remember those words from now on.

May Ymir watch over us all and guide us through this endevaour.

Signed,
Keisaer Adrean Blachkor
Keisaerina Anna Blachkor.

[...]

One was a message from the Astarian Monarchs to Aurelia – I knew of her communication with them. She had told me herself. I had placed any contact between them on the watchlist, just to be safe, and was informed only of the most important happenings.
Of course, Aurelia would still receive everything as if nothing had happened.
“'Be reasonable', huh?”, I said with a small laugh, “Little shit.”
“He is well above two meters.”, Damir commented.
“Then he is a big shit, whoop-ti-doo, doesn't matter.”, I shot back and read the other part. An Astarian Imperial Press Release. “I did not know, that he could write... or did he dictate that?”
“Mother...”
“You know how much I like people like him.”, I told him, the answer being obvious: Not very much. He was a little soldier playing at being head of state, in my opinion. His father had died before his time and left the Empire in the incapable, unprepared hands of a boy and his wife (and they insisted on being addressed together in official missives), as well as his nepotism-riddled circus troupe of wannabe special forces soldiers. That left a highly militarized, highly aggressive country and culture in the hands of someone, who apparently had made some sort of special forces training and kept back bonkers, if he himself and his briefing to Aurelia during the state visit last year were any indication. And that someone had no bloody idea of what he was doing, his subordinates of course agreeing to everything he said and suggesting things falling into his thought patterns, simply because they wanted to advance their careers, too. “So, little boy says, that everyone is overreacting and should shut up so that he can play be the big Prince of Peace. Mister Safir, what do you plan to do as a reaction?”
Safir looked to Damir, then back to me: “Prince Damir and I had the idea of, well... ignoring it. And them.”
I raised an eyebrow. Not what I had in mind, but let's hear them out.
“The idea is simple.”, Damir said, joining Safir's side, “The Astarians call for everyone to calm their minds and souls, so we will – by keeping the number of those involved to a minimum. Not only that, he should take his own proverb into consideration, as he, too, proclaims good intentions.” Damir added and I nodded slowly. “Besides, while some rather twitchy reactions did occur, I think, that we have a good handle on the situation and are calm.”
“Otherwise, the UIS would be an irradiated wasteland already.”, I added and nodded, “That is actually better then my own idea. I just wanted to tell him to fuck off and play with his toys and not to intrude on matters, which are of no concern to him.”
“That would have weird repercussions as far as Mervay and Brettenwald are concerned – after all, what are their stakes in it?”, Safir asked.
“We invited them as mediators.”, I said and shrugged, “As said, your idea is better.”
“There is another concern.”, Jamkiya threw in, “In no official statement, the Mervayan Government expresses suspicions about the intentions of the Astarians. Yet, their missive could be interpreted as them wanting to call that up. There are, however, passages allowing such interpretations in confidential diplomatic missives.” He shrugged. “The Brettenwaldians were at least honest from the get go.”
“And officially so.”, I said and nodded, “So... what are you concerned about?”
“That the Astarians can read along some of the diplomatic communication between our partners.”
To be honest, cryptoraphy and the related subjects went right over my head, but I will admit, that it was a valuable advantage to know, what the other was thinking or speaking among the own side. We did have our own decyphering rooms, after all, which were producing results every once and again.
I nodded slowly. It was possible, that the Astarians simply had meant Brettenwald and the Free Lands and a few others, who's statements were not exactly free of suspiciousness. “Continue monitoring everything.”, I still said.
“Yes, Sultana.”, Jamkiya nodded and bowed, “With your permission...”
“Of course. Dismissed, Mister Jamkiya.”, I relieved him and nodded, a grateful smile on my lips. Then I turned to Damir and Mister Safir. “So...”
“Pandereos has arrived at Utica International and is on his way to us in a small motorcade.”, Damir said and smiled, “Dschamilla is already in position, too. He'll be here in, say, half an hour.”
I nodded and rose. “Then I might go into position as well, shouldn't I?”
Both men flanked me, as I left my office and made my way down the hallways of the Palace. Three centuries of Ilkhans of Utica had walked these halls, now it was me.
“What did you reply to the Mervayans officially anyways?”, I asked Safir.
“It was actually a short message about me understanding their concerns, us having peace in mind as well and us agreeing to their travelling arrangements.”, he replied, “I was honestly a bit surprised by Dileva's honesty about her own interests.”
“Right, she has that daughter...”, I said and sighed, “I sometimes envy them. But anyway, what is the status on...”
Twenty minutes later, I was in the Gallery, a hallway open to the side, its arcades resting on sandstone pillars. The building provided shade, but outside of that shade, the sun beat down in Utica's vicious summers. Nearly 35 degrees Celsius in the shade, no rainfall, only sunshine for ten to eleven hours a day – it was not for everyone's liking.
A Handmaiden stood ready to give the Prince some water should he require it.
The motorcade would arrive at the vehicle pool under the rock the Palace of the Azure Hall was situated upon, an elevator carrying them upwards onto the rock. And once one had left the elevator room, one would be standing in the Gallery, a fresco to the left, to the right a small garden.
The fresco was one of the beautifully playful frescoes, which Fialtalaqa the Elder, the Fresco-Painter, was so famous for: A young softpaw and a young Sandwolf playing with each other. The two cubs were having fun, their parents watching each other with concerned eyes in the background as both animals grew up – and apart. Their differences were too large. The last image, however, showed the two of them meeting again, this time watching over their own young, together, with bemusement at their shenanigans in their eyes.
The garden was dominated by an open area in the middle, the wall opposite to the Gallery being the home of a large, vast rosebush. It was a beautiful plant, much like the woman in the open area was known as the Flower of Fenchu for a reason. Princess Dschamilla bint-Fadi was a beautiful woman, her long, silver hair bound up and her silver eyes gleaming in the sun like the steel of the two sabres she carried.
She was an athletic woman, too, as the opponent soon learned – Aynur, the Ilkhana of Megido, another beautiful woman with thorns one should never underestimate. The Lasite Redhead had a lot of fun, quite visibly, as Dschamilla went to town, less moving and more like dancing through the slashes and attacks of the younger woman's sabres.
Both were masters of their subject and weapons, so when I heard the door open, admitting a Handmaiden followed by someone, who could only be Prince Pandereos III.. He looked handsome – were I a few decades younger, I would make a pass at him. Nowadays, however, I was not a Sandpanther stealing the cubs from their beds and I learned better then to think of a pretty face as 'just' a pretty face.
I motioned for him to join my side and join me in watching the Princess and Khana.

While that was going on, in Lutetii, people were being assembled – everyone knew, who had called them, but no one had any evidence. Everyone knew, who had paid them, but no one had any evidence. Everyone knew, who had owned their safehouse, but there was no evidence of that person left.
The group of fifteen people, who would form a travelling group of normal tourists with legal documentation checking out splendidly. So, as far as any outsider was concerned, they were legitimate tourists. They were also among the best in their subject.
Their destination, however, had surprised them a little bit: Kyrenaia.

by **AHSCA** » Sun Jun 20, 2021 11:59 am

Aurora Ducal Palace

Well things were getting complicated now with Mervay desiring to meet up with the parties involved, honestly Marcella wasn't certain what they really had to talk about, in the end it really seemed doubtful any mediation was going to come about this. But she did understand, at first it missed her but she did remember, the good Chancellor Dileva's daughter was now a UIS citizen by marriage rite (though there has been some considerations about changing the citizenship laws, noting yet has come) so now a lot was on the line. Reading the papers, various news statements and press releases across the board about this, not just at home but so many abroad. with her all her Officers present, Marcella set it down, "Good grief, you'd think we've just gone to war, or invaded a country or toppled a government or something. All I did was dissolve relations with one country, why is everyome making such a fuss?!"

Shizuka nodded, "I admit, the news really has been abuzz, it's just a matter of time before it reaches every corner of GD."

"Noir, what's your opinion, is this something to be worried about?"

"In terms of security, I think we don't have much to worry about. Maybe more your reputation but that's for Miss Gozen to worry about. Most of the region is preoccupied with the land grab in Craxx to care about a sliver of our island for military purposes. Even so you could easily lease the land out to anyone of our allies."

"The Mokans have a base here already, I'd be willing to consider Lamoni, strongly. Even Mervay if they so desired."

"Milady I must agree," The next to speak up was AHSCA's Treasure, Violetta Vera. "The economic cost of dismantling the remains of the old Kyre station under our own would be high if you were to restore it to the old natural habitat and let a village resume settlement there. Besides the nearest village of Saiki taking the blow from this At this point, we could consider this optimal time to renegotiate."

"Officer Kenny?" She turned to her Interior Officer

"I'm with Violetta on this. The station of Kyre was a clean one and secure one but it still would be a lot to clean up by ourselves. Besides letting the weather do its thing."

"I take that as my cue," Next up was Youkika Elma, the Meteorological Officer

"We are going into hurricane season, without them it's going to start making some rather anxious."

"We're predicting about an average season again. Right now conditions are clear with no major storms on the horizon. Though they affirmed their commitment did they not? I'd say for relief if we're slammed by something major, we don't have much to worry about."

"Yes that is possible unless things go even more sour."

"Kurago, how are things in the waters?"

"All is calm and well, we did note some Naval ships from the Sultanate around, probably just patrolling as well as Lamonian ships too. I'm guessing Lamoni wants to ensure they're kept at bay."

"International waters right? Nothing we can do to stop them form that, for now keep an eye out, I don't imagine they're doing anything foolish. I think we've discussed enough, so thank you for coming today, if I need anything more, I shall call for you again."

"Thank you, Milady."

As the others began to file out Marcella did summon Noir and Kurago back "Except you two, one more moment. I trust plans are in motion?"

"They are. We've been in touch with some of our other contacts to get some things going. And for now it seems The Sultanate is willing to honor present travel agreements between our nations."

"Ah gee, I didn't even think about that, thank you for being on top of that Noir"

"Tit for tat, Milady. We keep the lanes of tourism open we also get to have our people roaming around easily. But with so many taking note of this situation, we may need to expand our mission a little. Beyond simple recon"

"What are you proposing?"

"Deep recon. See if we can't get into their corespondents."

"If we get caught, we'll be deeper."

"That is dark world of espionage. We'll have to do our best, Milady but we are right now at significant disadvantage. Forgive my bluntness but your loss of composure with the Sultana is starting to get out there which makes you look like a petty unstable leader. We're not a world power where get to sit on that without concern. If we want to ensure things stay in our favor, we need to be one step ahead of everyone."

"All right do what you can." It was blunt indeed but she was right.

"Yes, Milady." The two made their leave, in the silence of a few moments.

Marcella thumbed through some of the mail that arrived, and still nothing from Aurelia. Of course not, chances are she simply tossed the letter, thinking it was just silly fanmail. Well then again, maybe not, Aurelia did appreciate some of the Islander's Sentiments towards her, many finding her quite lovely, especially dolled up in a yukata. So maybe she was just that angry with her, she really couldn't blame her, if the tables were turned she probably would be the same. This was getting out of control, maybe she should just write for forgiveness already and just call it even. The two nations could go their ways and be done with each other. Aurelia, even if you are mad at me, I only hope you'll be happy. I'll always love you, whatever happens. She took a seat, pulled out her pen to handwrite the Sultana personally but as she made the first stroke, a knock on her door as Asuna opened the door "Milady, you have a visitor, Mr. Vincao who's requested urgently to speak with you."

"Thank you, Asuna. Please inform Yoshi to hold my meal." With a nod, Asuna shut the door behind her as Vincao entered. Mr. Vincao, good afternoon to you." Marcella urged him to take a seat.

A statement on behalf of Her Highness,

The United Island States of AHSCA has begun to note a significant interest within our recent dissolving of formal relations with the Sultanate of Kyrenaia, following a state visit that unfortunately ended due to irreconcilable differences. With many nations, from The Kingdom of Mervay, the state of Lamoni, The People's Unified Federation, Holy Empire of Holy Marsh, The Grand Theocratic Empire of Holy Marsh, The Freelands of the Selkie and of course the Federalis Imperium of Astares Amauricanum. We understand there is a great amount of concern with the now vacated land that was home to Kyrenaia's Military Base, at present Her Royal Highness, Duchess Marcella Villa has yet to make a formal decision on the future of this site so we are only asking for a bit of patience on this matter. Further, members of the Kingdom of Mervay's Royal Government are wishing to become mediators to this complicated matter and Her Highness is welcoming their input. In time, we want cooler heads to prevail, realizing state relations as these are formed and broken all the time with minimal fuss.

Further Concerns and Questions, we ask you contact our Foreign Office for further information. Mark communiques as Attention to Foreign Officer Noir VinoCacao or Deputy Roshin Tendo for urgent replies. Until then, peace be with you friends.

Noir VinoCacao
Officer for Foreign Relations
On Behalf of Her Majesty, Duchess Marcella Villa.

by **Astares Amauricanum** » Sun Jun 20, 2021 2:34 pm

"Good afternoon Your Highness." replies Daniel as he enters and bows to the Duchess, before rising back up and taking a seat. "Thatk you for having accepted to meet me on such a short notice." he adds before taking a folder from his bagpack, and sliding it towards the Duchess on her desk.

"I will go straight to the point if you don't mind." he says as he opens the folder, revealing the message from Brettenwald to Kyrenaia that was intercepted and decoded a few hours ago.

"As you'll see," starts the Astarian ambassador, " our settlement in the Malditas is still feared by many as an agressive move towards your nation. And with the Kyrenaians now gone, some are not afraid to say out loud that they think we will move on this and increase our influence over the UIS." he adds with a very serious tone.

As he lets a beat pass, Daniel takes a sip from a bottle of water he takes out from his bagpack.

"But as Their Imperial Majesties Adrean and Anna already told you, our only interest in this corner of the world is the Malditas, stability in the region, and peace with our neighbors. Yourself can surely testify of this fact, as we never tried anything against the UIS. Granted, I admit that the settlement of a spy network on your own soil is something not nice, but as you have seen, and Officers VinoCacao and Kurago as well, we didn't use it against the UIS. In fact, it allowed us to introduce you to the world of espionage, and now you have your own bonafide intelligence agency thanks to us."

With that said, Daniel leans a bit towards Marcella.

"Duchess, I won't sugarcoat it, this situation is a mess. What you've done is considered by many as a bold, yet foolish move back home. As the Keisaerina said during a meeting we had over videoconference: "She has balls, I'll give her that." I
I know you're maybe thinking to send back an apology message to the Sultana, but if I may give you a small piece of advice, it is most likely too late for that. While Kyrenaia has made clear that they will continue to honor the guarantees they gave you back in 2017, my colleagues at the ACI do all believe that some form of payback will come.
What you did is not something to be taken lightly, especially for a big country like the Sultanate. The UIS are unfortunately not as big in terms of power and influence. And this is why this situation is garnering so much attention from others.
Beyond the influence, beyond the power whether is is military, economical, etc, the fact remains: a small, young country cut relations with a bigger and ancient one. And to add insult to injury, you chose to do so over a personal matter, which is something most people will tell you not to do."

After saying this, the ambassador stands up from his seat, and walks a few steps around his chair, stretching a bit.

"Duchess," he continues as he turns back to Marcella, " in the end, it's not my position, or the Imperium's, to judge your actions. You did what you did, we will all have to live with the consequences. But be assured of one thing: no matter what happens, and even if we haven't made that clear publicly, the Federalis Imperium of Astares Amauricanum will support the United Island States of AHSCA to the end.

If you want to ask why, there are many reasons: first, I won't lie, Their Imperial Majesties have taken a liking to you and your country. As military leaders and special force operators, they've seen their fair share of war, and don't like to see unecesary deaths happen. That's why, due to what happened here 20 years ago, they sworn they would not let anyone repeat the same scenario twice.

Second, even though our two countries are the only one to know it, our... underground involvment should I say," he continues, air-quoting underground, "has been a costly investment. While we will never ask for payment from the UIS for creating the Shadow Knights, it is out of question that we just drop everything we did and go back where we come from. We invested time and ressources here, we are here to stay, no matter what others may think.

And third, as I said it: we believe some form of payback will come for what happened. The ACI believe it will not be an open move, like an attack or an embargo, but something more discreet and vicious.
To that end, we have deployed an emergency ACI team made of SOG Agents and technical analysts, which have just landed at Embassy Isle and will link up with the Shadow Knights.
We need to set up something to monitor the UIS internally for anything suspicious.

Finally, regarding our collaboration in what we are supposed to do in the Sultanate, I will get in contact with Officers Kurago and VinoCacao to hammer out the finer details. Just know that our signal intelligence is ready to go when the operation will begin."

As he finishes, Daniel sits down, and leans again towards Marcella.

"So, Your Highness, do you have any questions? And on a side note, know that our nation would be willing to buy the land formerly occupied by the Naval Base for a hefty price. We would also cover the cleaning costs of the previous rubble, if this is okay with you."

by **AHSCA** » Sun Jun 20, 2021 5:37 pm

Taking over the messages handed to her, from ACI's own intel service to her, this from the Brettenwald side of things. To be honest, Marcella was still at a loss as to what was their angel on this, she didn't know much about them as a nation or their relations with the Sultanate. But it seemed like Aurelia mentioned back at the festival, something about the Imperium's presence in the region were rattling cages for reasons unknown. Aurelia has been in touch with them too, personally? What was up to anyway? She set it down. "I don't deny, I should have handled things a lot better instead of simply throwing the Sultana out. Now I'm starting to grow anxious over all this if you say is true, there might be consequences."

Marcella's gaze turned out the window at the peaceful blue sky, deceptive in so many ways. Like it or not, AHSCA was at a real crossroads. Marcella really wanted to have them stand firmly on their own two feet, not be so dependent on friends and neighbors. Last thing she was doing was looking to become another power broker in GD, plenty of them already, just to allow the UIS to not have to be so willing to bow to every whim. She always kind of thought, she gave into letting the Kyrenaians get a piece of land too quickly and easily. "I believe your interests are only in the Matildas, as far as I'm concerned they are well within your rights for claiming. You really think though, I'm too late to possibly apologize for my behavior?" The Sultana was a prideful woman, maybe a lot like Marcella in ways, but she also had years more experience to guide her compared to the guppy Duchess.

"Your support is truly grateful and welcome for right now. As much as I'd be happy to sell you the land, you might be aware I've agreed to meet with Mervay's delegation on this matter, I feel it's only right I have to hear what they say, before I make a final decision. After all, we have other allies that I should be considerate of as well. I hope the good people of your country will understand and allow me time to contemplate all offers. But I will consider yours. I do have to ask, in your opinion if you feel able to give one, something serious is lurking on the horizon as a payback for my insolence. You say it's not major, but I can't help but worry it is...Then again between you, Mokastana, Lamoni & Holy Marsh, though I admit, I haven't heard formally from the Marshites yet, I'd say it's not as concerning about a major operation but what do you in your opinion think they might go for? Think something subtle like a propaganda campaign or hassle our civil maritime ships?"

A small knock to interrupt "I'm sorry, yes?"

Asuna poked in. "Sorry, Milady but your sister is also here now."

"Oh, can Gisella wait a few moments?" Of course nothing would make her happier than to speak with her sister but with the meeting, might be good to wait.

"I'll see, Milady. Pardon my interruption."

"Wait, Asuna, is she okay?"

"She seems fine, Milady, just a little eager to talk with you. But I'll have Yoshi keep her occupied."

"Thank you, tell her I'll be just a few moments, okay?"

"Yes, Milady."

"Do pardon that, but please answer my question if you will."

by **Cartoonia** » Sun Jun 20, 2021 7:06 pm

The Supreme Leader’s Estate. Gallagher, Cartoonia.

Things… have been eventful this morning. Supreme Leader Jimmy Kudo was in the living room of his estate, watching television while Rachel was getting ready for a day out in Gallagher’s shopping districts and the kitchen staff making breakfast. Jimmy was surfing through channels as he would do on any other normal day, but that day would become irregular when a news broadcast got his attention

Gallagher Central News, 8:00 AM News.

In international news, scandal rocks the two nations of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia and the United Island States of AHSCA.

Surfacing reports, and a segment of the unpopular tabloid journalism television show TTG (TMZ stand-in), claim that her majesty of AHSCA, Duchess Marcella Villa had a fight with the Sultana of Kyrenaia.

This coincides with the Duchess supposed marriage with Princess Aurelia, which would make the latter the Duchess-consort. But of course, if TTG is to be believed, the Sultana refused to acknowledge this relationship. It must be noted that the Cartoon government does not have a clue on the royal family of Kyrenaia, since proper relations have not been established.

So the only conclusion that we came up with to why this wasn’t allowed was simply for reasons of a conservative royal family, which many Cartoon politicians of the liberal wing would shout oppression at the first drop of a pin.

It would have been fine for things to come together, but what we have gathered, a heated argument broke out and Duchess Marcella not only ended her relationship but the nation’s relation to Kyrenaia altogether.

Whether TTG is actually right about this, or severely exaggerated, or just another bit of yellow journalism, I guess that there is one thing to learn here ladies and gentlemen, love never wins in the end after all.

We will update you on this situation as it comes up, until then. I’m Kent Brockman, and now its time for sports.

Jimmy changed the channel, not one for sports. His wife came in once she was done in the bathroom.

“Hey, Jimmy! Anything interesting on the news”.

“Oh, I don’t think there is anything interesting”.

“Really?”

“Oh yeah. TTG is on the news again though”.

“That tabloid journalism show? The one that has the least amount of views?”

“The same one, it was something about Her Royal Highness, Duchess Marcella Villa ceasing relations with the Sultanate of Kyrenaia all because of some love… royal house… complication”. Seeing how it was TTG, it was none of Jimmy’s concern. His wife however was a little bit worried.

“That sounds serious, are you sure it’s nothing”.

“If it is from TTG it’s probably nothing but slander and exaggeration”. As he was ranting on how TTG was not a reliable source of news and how it plays out for entertainment purposes. The family butler came in with the newspaper. He finished his rant and opened the papers and what he saw in the international headlines did bring out a gasp.

AHSCA Duchess breaks relations with the Sultanate of Kyrenaia. Outburst leads to diplomatic crisis!

Jimmy was in shock. Duchess Marcella seemed so nice, he didn’t think she had it in her to become so angry. Following the headlines were two official public press releases from the two nations, confirming the whole mess.

“Jimmy?”

“For once…” Jimmy says slowly, reeling from the shock. “TTG was right about something”.

“What do you think caused the situation?”

“I’m not sure, that is something that would need to be looked into. But… If I were to guess, the sultana probably said something nasty… Ah, it is even said in the Sultanate’s official press release. Something to do with ‘mixing personal issues and her duties as Head of State’. I would have to guess as well, that it had to do with Duchess Marcella’s and Princess Aurelia”. Jimmy just sighs.

“Just another day in the world of diplomacy”. The butler came back just as Jimmy was done assuming.

“Sir, ma’am. Breakfast is ready if you wish”.

“Thank you very much, Wadsworth”.

“Save a place at the table for me. I am going up to my office”.

“Already Jimmy?”

“Look the last thing I need is another crisis that could lead to all-out conflict”.

“You always think something bad that has happened is going to lead to an all-out conflict. I don’t think it is that bad”.

“Nevertheless Rachel dear. We are bound by treaty and national policy to support and aid our friends and allies no matter what their course of action. Since we do not have any formal relations with Kyrenaia. So our stance is neutral, but we are bound to support AHSCA. I shall draft up some letters and official communique on my stance. I’m sure the government will do the same as well. I need to get in touch with Mr. Fernandes over on Embassy Island, have him hand my personal letter to her majesty”. He begins to leave his living room, but before that…

“Oh! Wadsworth. Please bring up some coffee. I have a feeling that this will take up most of my day”.

The Office of The Supreme Leader of Cartoonia
6/21/2021

Public Press Release. For international presses. Attention to AHSCA and Kyrenaia foreign offices.

As sovereign of the Democratic Republic of Cartoonia, and subsequently, the Emperor of the Cartoon Empire, I speak on behalf of the people that we are most saddened to hear of the recent fallout between the United Island States of AHSCA, and the Sultanate of Kyrenaia. We would have never guessed that the divide in opinion would leave to severe consequences. Cartoonia’s thoughts on the matter would like to try and remain neutral. I have a good feeling that everything will be sorted out. But if the circumstances are less than desirable, Cartoonia is bound by treaty and national policy to support and aid our friends and allies. If push were to come and shove, we are bound to support AHSCA, as they have a larger presence than the Sultanate diplomatically (with ambassadors in both Cartoonia and AHSCA). It is my hope that both of these nations will be able to resume normal relations as quickly as possible. I think all would agree that the last thing we need is a conflict.

Might I add, that I have written to the Sultana back in 2019 when terrorists attacked Downtown Utica, and I just want to say that I really hoped after that, diplomatic relations would have started on much more better omens.

- Supreme Leader Jimmy Kudo, Head of State

Cartoon House. Gallagher, Cartoonia.

It was to be another day in Cartoon House. No meeting was scheduled for the House of Representatives, and the cabinet secretaries were busy with paperwork in their respective department buildings. It was certainly busy for the Department of Foreign Affairs, as it looks that the news was spreading, and Cartoonia is eager to weigh in on its position. Chancellor Nigel Uno is writing his own communique, on behalf of the Cartoon government, which is completely different from what the Supreme Leader Kudo speaks on. As where Kudo speaks on all things generally, Chancellor Uno has to take a political stance on situations.

He was in his office of Cartoon House, writing this communique, and along enters Representative of South Park, Peter Charles Patterson. He is the ex-Secretary of Education until a debacle with the Ooarai Academy, a prominent tankery school had been shut down by him as an act of what he calls, de-conservatism (seeing that he views tankery as a militarist, imperialist, misogynist sport). He was replaced by Marge Simpson and has been demoted as a representative to Cartoon House. When he entered the chancellor’s office, he was clearly not happy.

“Mr. Patterson. I told you that I’m not going to deal with you denying your dismissal. Or did you forget to drink your coffee this morning?”

“Uno. Have you read the papers today!”

“If you are referring to the international section, then I am already on it. I am writing an official communique as we speak, on behalf of Cartoon House”.

“NO! Not this diplomatic crap! Why are we not condemning the Sultanate for not allowing the right for LGBTQ+ to marry. This is an attack on modern social justice! This is something we cannot stand for!”.

“It’s not like they are executing them. It is not our place to police the world with our domestic policies. Well… unless we were attacked”. Referring to the attacks from Crossoveria with the ACE and all.

“But Uno. We live in a society where everything around the world has become more acceptable. The fact that this sultanate has not offered these rights is extremely disgusting. I must insist we threaten them! It is the only way they will understand!”

“Now don’t jump on such a high horse, especially since you didn’t support that high horse in the first place. And besides, we are not going to whip out the big stick when it is not necessary”.

“Oh yeah” Patterson replies sarcastically, “the big stick was not necessary when Crossoveria threatened us”.

“Hey! You know that their terrorists attacked us first. Besides, they were operating illegally even before then. So far Patterson, no one had declared war. And I hope they don’t, war is simply out of the question. But as far as I know, there is a severe power vacuum. And right now, our policy is to support our friends and allies in whatever decision they choose. If they decide on war, then we shall aid and join them. But we are not going in too hastily. Now you just return to your duties while I write this communique. Thank you for your time”.

“But Uno!”

“I said thank you. That means leave”.

“UNO!”

“Do I have to call security?”. Knowing that his political career would be in danger if he continues on like this, he reluctantly complies and leaves silently, but he knows what he must do and returns to his apartment, to carry out his own mission.

The Office of The Chancellor of Cartoon House
6/21/2021

Public Press Release. For international presses. Attention to AHSCA and Kyrenaia foreign offices.

On behalf of Cartoon House, it pains me to see the relations of two great allies deminished. It is my wish that stable relations are in order, and all nations can settle any differences, but it seems that relations have fallen between the United Island States of AHSCA and the Sultanate of Kyrenaia. The Supreme Leader has made it clear that Cartoonia will try to maintain neutrality on the situation. But we have made agreements with the United Island States, and they do have a good amount of diplomatic influence with our relationship being good friends and allies. Nevertheless, since we do not have any diplomats or envoys in the Sultanate, we are bound by treaty and national policy to aid and support our friend AHSCA in any decision they make.

On a more, personal political note. It has come to the attention that the Sultanate has no law allowing nor protecting the right of marriage of the LGBTQ+ Community, as evident with the 2019 Al’Arz Attacks. Personally, I have no right to judge another nation’s politics (as long as no harm is done to a certain group) but I do hope these laws change for the better. If memory serves me right, this was the reason this whole international fiasco began in the first place.

- Chancellor Nigel Uno, Head of Government

The Cartoonian Embassy Office, Embassy Isle, AHSCA

“Yes ma’am, it is quite a mess” Ambassador Jellal Fernandes responds on the phone with Secretary of Foreign Affairs Raphtalia. It would seem that Jellal has known about this whole debacle since the beginning. It’s times likes this that keep him up at night. “It would seem that a spark has likely ignited that night. But I have faith and confidence that this will not turn into a conflict ma’am Yes, I will try to deliver his message to her majesty as soon as possible… Thank you ma’am. Have a good day ma’am”. He finishes his call, and security officer Quagmire enters the office.

“What is it sir?”

“The Supreme Leader wants me to send a letter to her Royal Highness, Duchess Marcella”.

“Is it…?”

“Yes. It’s about the current situation”.

“Are we taking sides?”

“We are to try to remain neutral. But that might seem a little tricky. As you know, we are bound by treaty and national policy to support our allies and friends, and seeing how we have no diplomatic representation with Kyrenaia, we are most likely to side with the United Island States”. He gets up from his chair. “Look, I don’t not know if her Royal Highness is busy, but I must deliver this letter to her”.

“As you wish sir”.

Cartoonian Embassy Telegram Communications

To Her Royal Higness, Duchess Marcella of the United Island States,

I hope this telegram finds you well. I have received a letter from his excellency, Supreme Leader Jimmy Kudo, and I wish to request an audience with you to give you the letter personally. I hope that this is not too much trouble. If you are unable to see me, I will gladly send you the letter regardless.

Thank you,

Jellal Fernandes, Ambassador of Cartoonia to AHSCA,
Embassy of Cartoonia,
Embassy Isle, AHSCA.

by **Astares Amauricanum** » Mon Jun 21, 2021 3:09 am

AHSCA wrote:Taking over the messages handed to her, from ACI's own intel service to her, this from the Brettenwald side of things. To be honest, Marcella was still at a loss as to what was their angel on this, she didn't know much about them as a nation or their relations with the Sultanate. But it seemed like Aurelia mentioned back at the festival, something about the Imperium's presence in the region were rattling cages for reasons unknown. Aurelia has been in touch with them too, personally? What was up to anyway? She set it down. "I don't deny, I should have handled things a lot better instead of simply throwing the Sultana out. Now I'm starting to grow anxious over all this if you say is true, there might be consequences."

Marcella's gaze turned out the window at the peaceful blue sky, deceptive in so many ways. Like it or not, AHSCA was at a real crossroads. Marcella really wanted to have them stand firmly on their own two feet, not be so dependent on friends and neighbors. Last thing she was doing was looking to become another power broker in GD, plenty of them already, just to allow the UIS to not have to be so willing to bow to every whim. She always kind of thought, she gave into letting the Kyrenaians get a piece of land too quickly and easily. "I believe your interests are only in the Matildas, as far as I'm concerned they are well within your rights for claiming. You really think though, I'm too late to possibly apologize for my behavior?" The Sultana was a prideful woman, maybe a lot like Marcella in ways, but she also had years more experience to guide her compared to the guppy Duchess.

"Your support is truly grateful and welcome for right now. As much as I'd be happy to sell you the land, you might be aware I've agreed to meet with Mervay's delegation on this matter, I feel it's only right I have to hear what they say, before I make a final decision. After all, we have other allies that I should be considerate of as well. I hope the good people of your country will understand and allow me time to contemplate all offers. But I will consider yours. I do have to ask, in your opinion if you feel able to give one, something serious is lurking on the horizon as a payback for my insolence. You say it's not major, but I can't help but worry it is...Then again between you, Mokastana, Lamoni & Holy Marsh, though I admit, I haven't heard formally from the Marshites yet, I'd say it's not as concerning about a major operation but what do you in your opinion think they might go for? Think something subtle like a propaganda campaign or hassle our civil maritime ships?"

A small knock to interrupt "I'm sorry, yes?"

Asuna poked in. "Sorry, Milady but your sister is also here now."

"Oh, can Gisella wait a few moments?" Of course nothing would make her happier than to speak with her sister but with the meeting, might be good to wait.

"I'll see, Milady. Pardon my interruption."

"Wait, Asuna, is she okay?"

"She seems fine, Milady, just a little eager to talk with you. But I'll have Yoshi keep her occupied."

"Thank you, tell her I'll be just a few moments, okay?"

"Yes, Milady."

"Do pardon that, but please answer my question if you will."

"It's never too late to solve any problem you may have in your life Duchess." replies Daniel with a sigh. "However, the question is: how much are you willing to pay for the problem to be solved.
When I said it was too late in my opinion to ask for forgiveness to the Sultana, I meant it in the sense that the UIS would get out without any trouble whatsoever. But as of now, many of us believe that for things to go back to normal, the Sultanate would want something in exchange to forgive your slack completely. Maybe better trade deals to their advantage, maybe the increase of relations to the detriment of other of your allies, etc. In any case, they would want something, that is for sure."

The Ambassador lets another beat pass, and takes another sip of water from his bottle.

"As for what they would do as payback, we don't know for sure. Some of my analyst colleagues believe it could be some propaganda to decrease your popularity, by maybe increasing support for General Sturnum who is a known critic of you, maybe trying to have others restrict their relations with you in terms of trade or diplomacy, etc.
I'm sorry that I, or my colleagues, can't give you a clear answer. But when you consider that even in their own country, with their Hyena Game, they are ready to go through various means to fight each other in the shadows, you have to be ready for anything."

"I am not trying to paint the Sultanate in a bad light for you to increase our influence here Your Highness, I just cite the facts the ACI has gathered so far. I just say this for you to be careful. And to that end, that's why I came to you, to ask for an immediate collaboration between the Shadow Knights and the ACI. We also have to coordinate regarding the actions we will carry out in the Sultanate."

"Finally, regarding the base, do as you want, we will respect your decision no matter what you choose. But know we are thankful for you to consider our offer.
Also, I hope I'm not overstepping my position, but I would like if possible to discreetly be there when you meet with Chancellor Dileva from Mervay. Would that please be possible Your Highness?" asks the Ambassador with a nice tone.

by **Mervay** » Mon Jun 21, 2021 1:51 pm

No one in intelliegence was happy, in fact, they were either worried and making damage control or pissed and researching everything about this whole new decryption and figuing out if they saw anything else or intercepted more messages. In fact, the situation was so tense back in Mervay that even the Prime Minister had to cancel whatever meeting he had on his tour and returned on a flash to watch over as the Crown was away for the moment and the Deputy Prime Minister was acting as a candidate so that meant it had to be him, yes or yes.
The National Intelligence Service Agency (NISA), RICO and even The Defense United Intelligence General Directors were in an meeting with the Prime Minister and the officers out yet in travel; a new secured line being used after eliminating the last one for fears of that being compromised and other countermeassures were put in place. The conversation was going for an hour by now and it was easily clear to everyone in the room that no on was happy; The Prime Minister was irritated and at the brink of being livid; Princess Circe was growing tired, The Chancellor was listening intensely to the conversation as she, like those in the rest of the room had a lot to say; Prince Pandareos was certainly doing the same as the chancellor, but; Her Majesty, she was absolutely furious, all kept by an well made mask where she put an smile, one that never reached her eyes.

"Ladies and gentlemen of the Joint Intelligence Committee, all of you as directors of the respective organizations that do make up the whole Intelligence Apparatus of our prestigious nation. Now that we had heard that nothing excepting the message we sent to The Sultanate was decrypted and leaked onto whoever did this..." The smile she had changed, it became a threatening smile as her eyes and the aura she showed gave the feeling she was livid and could ask. She was not alone in that regard, The Chancellor had the same threatening aura but hid behind an false motherly smile while the Prime Minister had an dead stare on his eyes and the Prince had something of an sadistic smile on his face. The Princess in turn, she was sighing as well as irritated, this whole debacle was just being made worse minute by minute.

In an exchanged glare between the members of the Intelligence Community, It was decided that Director General Hamilton from RICO should speak, even if the NISA and RICO had to perform tasks both national and internationally thanks to their respective branches.

"If I may, Your Majesty; we have all our suspicions on the possibility it was an UIS Allied Nation..." Suddenly as soon as the Director General said that, the ambient became heavy; it was that such news were a shock to everyone. However the man soon was made to continue as soon as Her Majesty and the Prime Minister nodded for him to continue. "Considering everything and how one of the UIS Allied States have been so far the most active ones on this whole scandal, considering how The PUF, Lamoni and other allies of the GD Area had been silent and yet we do know they will make sure to protect the isles but we are certain they cannot be as that type of situation might be tense; we came with our analysts and agents in all three agencies that the main suspect might be The Federalis Imperium of Astares Amauricanum based on the current hypothesis." It was at that moment that the Prime Minster spoke, Mr. Vianna tried his best to keep calm and did so, but. He was not pleased with the news they were given.

"Please explain your Hypothesis, Director General." The man spoke, his fingers rubbing his eyes as he tried to make sense of why the Astarians of all people would try and spy on some of their communications. Hamilton just nodded.

"Yes, Prime Minister. RICO has been picking up a sudden activity on attempting to track down our messages on the UIS regarding the situation and while those were not leaked and decrypted. The next incident of this kind was against our communications with the Kyrenaia Government, the communique that regarded the transport and other issues was leaked to them, including Chancellor's Dileva Personal Reasons as well." He paused, reactions were grim and by the looks of it, the chancellor and queen had an possible dangerous intent considering everything, while the prince put up an charming fake smile that never got to his eyes; the princess was shocked and was seriously onsidering on joining in the current climate; thankfully the prime minister was... Well; it wasn't to throw rockets as his job was on the line so better don't talk about him. "We were able to localize and eliminate the threat and protect the rest of the network, both from that and the Embassies. All like we said at the middle of this meeting half an hour ago." The Director then went to the mysterious coincidences.

"As you may know, soon after this event their diplomatic communique was released, on where they explained they meant no harm and they criticized how some nations wiewed them; they didn't gave names but we can speculate and how they considered our decision to request an meeting with both governments as, and I believe they didn't said the word out of respect but completely implied; as paranoic." There was an collective groan from the most outspoken four, and a sigh from the Intelligence Community and the Princess of Slyvan. Well they did read the news from here, points to them that might be an point to use.

"Ironic." The silbings said in french simultaneously; they glared at each other before sighing. The Chancellor however, she wanted to hear more of this whole declaration.

"Please continue Director." She said very seriously, as the Director begun to continue.

"Other area to mention was how they hoped their interactions would calm the general public and those worried of an an attempt to expand their influence; however that wasn't all as they also did talk that the best course of action was to let it all go at it's natural course, calm down and wait for it to pass. All the while they talk of their well intentions and how all should remember their words when dealing with this." At that moment and through the safe lines the government put to replace the compromised one, an series of copies of the communique were rolled to those in their planes.

The reactions varied, but the Chancellor was looking mildly pissed and dissapointed when looking at the bigger picture, Princess Circe alongside her just sighed dissapointed as well while The Queen and The Prince just laughed bitterly and had the same dissapointing look and expressions than the rest.

"How ironic." Callista then spoke, an dissapointed expression filling her face. "We weren't cautious of the Astarians like the Kyrenaians were, we understood their actions as soon as we saw everything was peaceful and how both AHSCA and The Empire were closing; yet here we are... That trust they learned to build with us of their intentions; thrown out the window by their attempts at glancing around someone else's correspondence. Perhaps they should live up to their own words." She sighed deeply, all the actions to convince people they meant no harm did worked and now, the slap on their faces.

"We should take word of their advice, let them be as we lie low if I may say." Prime Minister Vianna proposed to which the Chancellor let out an nod in agreement before speaking.

"The Prime Minister has a point, we had always worked laying low and now it's the time for that than keep our heads up the wall. We can wait for our moment to fly and show ourselves, all the while he they do their work as peaceful supporters to an solution." Jessica explained; all the while a wicked grin appeared on Her Majesty.

"I see. Let's follow that then; let's keep them on the blind that we had discovered they were spying on us, I rather save the card for future use should it be necessary with them." She said before turning to look at the screen where her brother was, a look being given which only the silbings and those who knew them closely knew what it meant. Then, with a cheshire smile; she looked at the Intelligence Directors.

"Ladies and gentlemen; it is on the interests of national security that; this, is the last time this happens. As for you Director General Hamilton." She turned on to look at him, the eyes threatening as the cat watched it's prey with the mischief that all would know will cause chaos to those on her way, the man of her anger falling to keep his cool after the pressure he saw rom all on him made sweat run down his cheeks.

"If this repeat itself. You. Will. Be. Fired..."

Kyrenaia wrote:Two days later, Altinyarat-Palace, Malakiard, Khanate of Khond.
Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
The Altinyarat-Palace was around five centuries old, having changed ownership multiple times. Overlooking one of the major fords, and by now bridges, of the Saghara River, it was at a wonderful strategic position to control trade and commerce, especially since upstream, there were the iron pits of Beitruna. The Saghara River also marked the border between the Khanate of Khond, and thus the Ilkhanate of Utica, and the Ilkhanate of Kyrene.
In times long past, it has been an important post for the collection of tolls and, with the small fortification on the river island of Nahriarat, that function had a grim reminder.
The Altinyarat-Palace, on the other hand, was on Khond's side of the river, on a small cliff. Its original function as a fortification was a memory of the past, but the curtain wall at the foot of the cliff was still there and manned. It overlooked three major bridges, one for railways, two for motor vehicles, as well as the river itself. Nahriarat Fortress was fully accessible to tourists and the small museum of the fortress was a tourist magnet, while my own palace on the cliffs up high was not, especially not these days.
It was a centre of rulership, in this case of the Beyeha of Malakiard, and there wasn't much to look at anyway.
The main living building was at the edge of the cliff, the old citadel having been repurposed a long time ago, while the administrative buildings were outside the last curtain wall, in the bailey. The citadel was, by now, my private sanctum.
My office was in a tower at the bailey.
I stood at its window and wondered. In my hands, I held the letter of Emperor Thomas of Brettenwald, a wonderful letter, full of praises for me – when some of the achievements, like me getting through the tough times of the Fiafia-Scandal and the death of my mother, were not my achievement... especially with the former, I had the support of my Father and of a little puppy, who hadn't been little for a while now and who slept in his basket.
I stood at the window and looked outside. Someone had to use serious firepower to get through that window (truth being told, it might be easier to go through the wall, if I saw that correctly).
I had a splendid view of the area in front of the Main Gates and the walls, beyong which a free zone of around a hundred meters came – then, Malakiard itself, a small town with ten thousand inhabitants, famous for its fig plantations, who would have never dreamed to see such an assembly in front of the Altinyarat-Palace.
A few thousand, according to Captain Hamia of the local detachment of the Tabardariyya, people, protestors, who were here for one thing: Either to show their support for me – or their disdain. Larsa had sent a onehundred men strong detachment of the Police Special Forces to keep the two camps separated, but it was all peaceful anyway.
At least the leaders of the Disdain-Camp had taken down the banner reading Hang the Bitch-Princess! quite quickly.
There were also people there, who were for or against the Change in the Law of Marriage, allowing for Homosexual Marriage. They had their own banners, one asking, if I would continue my work with the Movement. It was on the Disdain-Camp's side.
Of course I would.
The last two days, ever since the departure from the Rashiq, had been hectic, though, and I just wanted to finish the work day and take a nice, long, relaxing bath in the Hammam of the Altinyarat-Palace.
I looked forward to it, too, mainly because with some luck, I could have a cat with me: Callista had, according to the latest report, touched down in Larsa International (her brother would be meeting Grandmother) and was on her way here. She had been my friend ever since the State Visit last year, I had wanted to show her to this here place, too.
Her motorcade was inconspicuous, a limousine, a few cars of different makes as escorts, all manned by the Tabardariyya. It was not a huge state visit, but a smaller personal one, so no huge motorcade with a number of vehicles only Manat knew.
Until they would arrive, I would have to write my reply to Emperor Thomas.
One thought dominated my head: Was Marcella the right ruler for the UIS right now?
I sat down and began to write, using ink and a fountain pen as well, though my ink was of a deep, luxurious red. Associations with a woman's lips, strawberries, wine or tomato sauce could be made, but I knew, which association I preferred.

I looked at the letter, written in fluid and fine cursive and with the deep red ink, which I preferred for my personal correspondence. I looked at it and thought, that it didn't look like lips, wine or strawberries, but like blood.
I folded it and put it into the out-box, I'd have to send it via the Foreign Ministry.
Someone knocked.
“Come in.”, I called and smiled as my Handmaiden Sarina entered, a letter in her hand, “What do you have for me?”
“Fan mail.”, she said, looked at my frown, and shook her head. “This one might be interesting to you.”
It was the of the Princess Aurelia Fanclub of AHSCA. Oh, dear... I read...

Leaning back in my chair, I swallowed once, then twice.
Sarina got a tissue, handed it to me, I took it without thinking.
This was the end, then. Marcella and I were now officially apart, not only by the will of my Grandmother, but also by her own admission. What else was left to me other then to accept it? What was left to me other then to move on?
Sarina's arms wrapped around me from behind, pulled me closer.
“I will not cry.”, I told her, “Not yet, not now. Callista will soon be here and the blasted photographer...” My voice cracked, I cleared it. “...not yet. Not now.”
Sarina held me for a moment, I took her hand.
“I have to reply, don't I?”, I said and reached for my pen again.
Sarina's hand stopped me. “Maybe it would be better, if you would wait with that until tomorrow?”
I thought for a moment, then shook my head. “No, today.”
I got to work, using the same, red ink:

I looked at the reply I had written and nodded. “Send it from Amina's place.”
Sarina nodded. “It will be done.”, she said and turned, “Oh, and the motorcade of Queen Callista will be here in a few minutes.”
I nodded and grinned, though I did not know, if it reached my eyes.
“Wonderful, thank you!”
And off I was, reuniting with my friend at the steps of the Citadel, of my personal, private residence and sanctuary. Maybe I would be able to have a bath later today as well? Maybe Callista would join me? Though something to eat might be nice, too...
...however, one thing slipped my notice.
The receipt stamp on the letter was from two days ago. I had been back in office yesterday. Usually, important fan mail was shown to me immediately. I knew, that no one was beyond corruption, it was only a question of the price, but I usually believed, that Tabardariyya and Handmaidens were very expensive.
I did not know, that Marcella's letter had also gone somewhere else – the end result would be interesting to see...

Office of the Sultana, Palace of the Azure Hall, Utica.
Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad.
I looked at the letter and sighed.
There was more in this then I was comfortable with, but it needed to be said. I put the letter away and wanted to go at the next thing, when someone knocked on my door.
“Enter.”
It was Ilia Jamkiya, one of the most well-known faces of the Chandshar, Kyrenaia's foreign intelligence service. He was followed by Damir and Azad Safir, my Minister of Foreign Affairs. He had done excellent work and he was quite dependable – there might be a reward for in the cards, soon.
I looked at Jamkiya. “Every time you enter this office, something has gone wrong. What is it this time?”
He handed me two prinouts.

One was a message from the Astarian Monarchs to Aurelia – I knew of her communication with them. She had told me herself. I had placed any contact between them on the watchlist, just to be safe, and was informed only of the most important happenings.
Of course, Aurelia would still receive everything as if nothing had happened.
“'Be reasonable', huh?”, I said with a small laugh, “Little shit.”
“He is well above two meters.”, Damir commented.
“Then he is a big shit, whoop-ti-doo, doesn't matter.”, I shot back and read the other part. An Astarian Imperial Press Release. “I did not know, that he could write... or did he dictate that?”
“Mother...”
“You know how much I like people like him.”, I told him, the answer being obvious: Not very much. He was a little soldier playing at being head of state, in my opinion. His father had died before his time and left the Empire in the incapable, unprepared hands of a boy and his wife (and they insisted on being addressed together in official missives), as well as his nepotism-riddled circus troupe of wannabe special forces soldiers. That left a highly militarized, highly aggressive country and culture in the hands of someone, who apparently had made some sort of special forces training and kept back bonkers, if he himself and his briefing to Aurelia during the state visit last year were any indication. And that someone had no bloody idea of what he was doing, his subordinates of course agreeing to everything he said and suggesting things falling into his thought patterns, simply because they wanted to advance their careers, too. “So, little boy says, that everyone is overreacting and should shut up so that he can play be the big Prince of Peace. Mister Safir, what do you plan to do as a reaction?”
Safir looked to Damir, then back to me: “Prince Damir and I had the idea of, well... ignoring it. And them.”
I raised an eyebrow. Not what I had in mind, but let's hear them out.
“The idea is simple.”, Damir said, joining Safir's side, “The Astarians call for everyone to calm their minds and souls, so we will – by keeping the number of those involved to a minimum. Not only that, he should take his own proverb into consideration, as he, too, proclaims good intentions.” Damir added and I nodded slowly. “Besides, while some rather twitchy reactions did occur, I think, that we have a good handle on the situation and are calm.”
“Otherwise, the UIS would be an irradiated wasteland already.”, I added and nodded, “That is actually better then my own idea. I just wanted to tell him to fuck off and play with his toys and not to intrude on matters, which are of no concern to him.”
“That would have weird repercussions as far as Mervay and Brettenwald are concerned – after all, what are their stakes in it?”, Safir asked.
“We invited them as mediators.”, I said and shrugged, “As said, your idea is better.”
“There is another concern.”, Jamkiya threw in, “In no official statement, the Mervayan Government expresses suspicions about the intentions of the Astarians. Yet, their missive could be interpreted as them wanting to call that up. There are, however, passages allowing such interpretations in confidential diplomatic missives.” He shrugged. “The Brettenwaldians were at least honest from the get go.”
“And officially so.”, I said and nodded, “So... what are you concerned about?”
“That the Astarians can read along some of the diplomatic communication between our partners.”
To be honest, cryptoraphy and the related subjects went right over my head, but I will admit, that it was a valuable advantage to know, what the other was thinking or speaking among the own side. We did have our own decyphering rooms, after all, which were producing results every once and again.
I nodded slowly. It was possible, that the Astarians simply had meant Brettenwald and the Free Lands and a few others, who's statements were not exactly free of suspiciousness. “Continue monitoring everything.”, I still said.
“Yes, Sultana.”, Jamkiya nodded and bowed, “With your permission...”
“Of course. Dismissed, Mister Jamkiya.”, I relieved him and nodded, a grateful smile on my lips. Then I turned to Damir and Mister Safir. “So...”
“Pandereos has arrived at Utica International and is on his way to us in a small motorcade.”, Damir said and smiled, “Dschamilla is already in position, too. He'll be here in, say, half an hour.”
I nodded and rose. “Then I might go into position as well, shouldn't I?”
Both men flanked me, as I left my office and made my way down the hallways of the Palace. Three centuries of Ilkhans of Utica had walked these halls, now it was me.
“What did you reply to the Mervayans officially anyways?”, I asked Safir.
“It was actually a short message about me understanding their concerns, us having peace in mind as well and us agreeing to their travelling arrangements.”, he replied, “I was honestly a bit surprised by Dileva's honesty about her own interests.”
“Right, she has that daughter...”, I said and sighed, “I sometimes envy them. But anyway, what is the status on...”
Twenty minutes later, I was in the Gallery, a hallway open to the side, its arcades resting on sandstone pillars. The building provided shade, but outside of that shade, the sun beat down in Utica's vicious summers. Nearly 35 degrees Celsius in the shade, no rainfall, only sunshine for ten to eleven hours a day – it was not for everyone's liking.
A Handmaiden stood ready to give the Prince some water should he require it.
The motorcade would arrive at the vehicle pool under the rock the Palace of the Azure Hall was situated upon, an elevator carrying them upwards onto the rock. And once one had left the elevator room, one would be standing in the Gallery, a fresco to the left, to the right a small garden.
The fresco was one of the beautifully playful frescoes, which Fialtalaqa the Elder, the Fresco-Painter, was so famous for: A young softpaw and a young Sandwolf playing with each other. The two cubs were having fun, their parents watching each other with concerned eyes in the background as both animals grew up – and apart. Their differences were too large. The last image, however, showed the two of them meeting again, this time watching over their own young, together, with bemusement at their shenanigans in their eyes.
The garden was dominated by an open area in the middle, the wall opposite to the Gallery being the home of a large, vast rosebush. It was a beautiful plant, much like the woman in the open area was known as the Flower of Fenchu for a reason. Princess Dschamilla bint-Fadi was a beautiful woman, her long, silver hair bound up and her silver eyes gleaming in the sun like the steel of the two sabres she carried.
She was an athletic woman, too, as the opponent soon learned – Aynur, the Ilkhana of Megido, another beautiful woman with thorns one should never underestimate. The Lasite Redhead had a lot of fun, quite visibly, as Dschamilla went to town, less moving and more like dancing through the slashes and attacks of the younger woman's sabres.
Both were masters of their subject and weapons, so when I heard the door open, admitting a Handmaiden followed by someone, who could only be Prince Pandereos III.. He looked handsome – were I a few decades younger, I would make a pass at him. Nowadays, however, I was not a Sandpanther stealing the cubs from their beds and I learned better then to think of a pretty face as 'just' a pretty face.
I motioned for him to join my side and join me in watching the Princess and Khana.

Callista IV of Mervay
After an nice rest from that whole debacle with the Astarians having spied on their communications and almost firing the RICO Director General, Agus was to enjoy and relax; she was certainly in need of as soon as she see her friend; it has been a while since Aurelia and her saw each other, Montrose was a long time behind by now. But now she was here, able to enjoy with her friend and the one who now certainly needed some support.
She looked down at her clothes and smiled. She did pride herself of always being a dynamic on her styles after all, besides her there the ever trustworthy escorts she had, Agent Williams of Mirage, the secretive Intelligence Organization that answered to the Crown and was under official control of the Committee as an specialized joint unit and Agent Darius from the Black Knights, her secretive escort and special forces unit; it was a shame she couldn't be able to request a few more guards, but circunstances required it and they were well prepared as well; meanwhile Rosewell and Monteprieto had to stay back at home to take care of her sister back in Mervay, understandable considering she would take the throne if something bad happened.

But she shouldn't complain as the Tabardariyya was protecting her and escorting her to Malakiard Palace, she trusted this would end well and was enjoying the wiew; a break of the entire madness she had to deal on the plane and how this whole situation was literally going out of control. In fact, she asked herself what was what ticked off so much Marcella Villa to do that beyond the rejection of the compromise; did the Sultana said anything that ticked her off her nerves or they both just let themselves lose on the whole debate? Dear, this was madness.

Her guard and maid whispered to her that they were getting close and if she noticed something, was that there were two protests going on by the looks of it, protesters divided by the authorities and if she had to say something; it was...

"Of course" She groaned in italian as she saw the situation; of course there would be protests in solidarity for Aurelia and against her, she was certainly an divisive figure around Kyrenaia. She just sighed and hoped the whole travel through the crowd won't have any trouble, as she watched the majestic place where her friend lives. Fancy.

Pandareos III of Mervay
The Palace of the Azure Hall. It's certainly marevelous when you see it on first person, that's for sure. And here he was. His Suit was certainly noth what you expect for these types of days, but it worked and it worked well on this climate; as he only had an shirt and tie beneath his coat. He stepped out of the vehicle as soon as it stopped, the maids and butlers he brought were to stay with his belongings as he went up the elevator.
The handmaiden opened the door for him to enter to the gallery; passing through the frescoes as he smiled at the maiden as she lead him to The Sultana; The Prince smiled at her before his attention went at his surrundings; hedid noticed themandfound them pretty beautiful, certainlya work to admire, life. The garden was certainly to admire as well, so that rosebush that decorated the opposite wall.

Pandareos accepted the offer of his host and joined her in, there he found two women fencing, a red haired woman which he remembered to had read of, The Ilkhana of Megido; she was a woman of undeniable beauty and strength, one to never mess with. But so he could say the same or more of the woman which caught his interest; Dschamila bint-Fadi, The Flower of Fenchu. A woman of steel like the blades she masters, heiress to the Ilkhanate of Fenchu and if the whispers got it right, she was also an well known critic of Princess Aurelia. Tight and formal, yet relaxed when it came to children. She was... Interesting to say the least.

"My apologies for my lateness Sultana, but; we had to deal with an pestering problem regarding our common worry." He said to her, smiling warmly before returning his focus back to the duel at play; his eyes don't taking any chances as he watched it play. He might not be an expert on the type of swords they use, but he was an professional and skilled fencer. "Such beautiful place I've must say, worthy of such duel we have the honour to be witness of..."

Circe IV of Mervay and Jessica Dileva
Time, an essence, an commodity, an unique experience one might say. It was what the human runned on; we live our lives to the best and one day; time will run out. It's up to us to take advantage of that time and use it to our best after all. And so they would. The Ambassador Bellrose was present and ready to deal with the whole scandal as well. Her mind working on a complete list of possible outcomes like the women besides her; the chancellor was thinking on all political and personal outcomes as she will also have to talk with her daughter, while Princess Circe was brought to at as an wise head on firm shoulders to try and aid what she could to Duchess Villa before they had to leave. She would need some advice and help.

Now, they were here. Soon they go and have a meeting with the duchess.

Tess Dileva
AHSCA, her second home. Ever since she moved around here as well to enjoy with her wife and the woman she loves, the islands had been her second home; one where she knows she will be welcome as well as the nation she sails from. Yet; things were now not looking good for everyone.
The media back home talked about the whole scandal that was happening around the fallout between AHSCA and Kyrenaia, all pointing to an controversial decision of Duchess Villa which the languages and logic told her it had to do with the relationship she had with Princess Aurelia, so, the fact that The Sultana rejected it was certainly what begun everything considering there weren't signs of an possible fallout, instead; it was all spontaneous and quickly, so quickly in fact that it happened overnight.

She sighed; her parents wanted her and Satou as soon as possible in Mervay, the whole issue possibly escalating and them fearing she will be on the crossfire; this wasn't the hurricane she rode, this was a real possibility of something nasty that could happen and degrade into an war. She then closed off the laptop after reading everything regarding the news and after finally ending with another part of that accelerated course she's doing.

"Hope Satou gets here soon, I do really need to tell her this."

by **Brettenwald** » Mon Jun 21, 2021 6:45 pm

"...so the Mervayans are meeting with Kyrenaia at the moment and that's pretty much it." Marco made a noncommittal noise in response to his father's recap of events and poured him another. "The problem here, or at least part of it, is that the young are almost wholly unsuited to govern. One of the very few things the Americans got right was the bit about having to be 35 to be President. I mean, Duchess Villa's a naive girl with more bark than she should have and even less bite than I think she realizes, Blachkor's an unstable, upjumped commando treating this like it's equal parts a game and a [asset]-measuring contest- we had ways of dealing with guys like him when I was in the Marines, believe me -and thank the gods Aurelia seems to have her head screwed on straight. Somebody should in this mess. Razia-Sultana seems a decent woman but I worry about her pride getting the better of her even if the Duchess bends the knee like she should have in the first damn place, and I'm starting to think I'm just becoming an old man scared of shadows who's poking his nose into things he shouldn't. Marco, if I ever get within shouting distance of my father's paranoia you have my permission to usurp the throne and assassinate me, but I don't like what's going on and I really don't like that I don't know what's going on. What reason would the Astarians have for suddenly claiming a throwaway speck on the map for themselves if they didn't have anything planned to do with it? That's what's bugging me."
"Would you consider yourself unsuited in retrospect?"
"I wish I knew. Alerik's death was something that I've never been able to properly come to terms with, even after 33 years. I got over your grandfather by the time you and your brother came along, I had a job to do and I did it plus we were never that close, but with brothers it's like a little piece of you goes with them. Some mornings I wake up and think I'm just borrowing his bedroom, he's the one of us four who should be on that throne. Not me, not Henrik, not Arin and his stupid ponytail, him. The brightest candles burn the shortest, I suppose, but no father should outlive his son. I don't know what kind of a job he would have done- hell, I don't even know what kind of a job I'm doing sometimes. It's hard being personally responsible for 300 million additional lives and livelihoods along with your own."

A phone rang in a sparsely appointed office, in which cold LED lights silhouetted a lone figure against a glass wall and shone out into the night from atop a monolithic building constructed in the style of a heady mixture of whitewashed brutalism, I.M. Pei, and morally repulsive amounts of money. "Director, what a pleasant surprise." The tall, athletic redhead leaned back in her desk chair, which like everything else in her office bar the carpet was a stark, immaculate white. As a matter of fact, the Director creeped the hell out of her, but business was business. "I see. I see. With all due respect, I don't have the security clearance to- well, I am flattered. You do know how to treat a lady. Now that I can discuss this without the Gardae putting a bullet through me via my office window, what can I help you with? Ah. Right. Of course. I'm not stupid, Director, we're very very good but eventually that isn't enough anymore. Evolve or die, just ask Darwin, I'm not offended by that. An ounce of prevention and what have you. I see. From the ground up? Oh, hell, that's probably 48-60 hours on the absolute inside for proof of concept plus at least another 24 for quality assurance and loose ends. Our white-hat boys will do their best, but total perfection is your problem. It's a bit of an edge case, this, if you know what I mean. You're asking me to accomplish within a week what we'd usually take a month to even get a prototype going of... Of course I can do it, Director," she snapped, "but if you're going to ask me, albeit in the interest of state security, to massively inconvenience an entire division of my company, piss on every procurement & contraction procedure we have in place as well as seriously violate the Transparency in Government Act, maybe break at least two labor laws and get the union's hackles up then I want myself and my company to get something out of it. Not right now, of course, we're on a deadline, but as long as we have an understanding. Right. Thank you, Director. Good night." Valentine Teissedre was about to have a very long week.

by **AHSCA** » Mon Jun 21, 2021 6:49 pm

Astares Amauricanum wrote:"It's never too late to solve any problem you may have in your life Duchess." replies Daniel with a sigh. "However, the question is: how much are you willing to pay for the problem to be solved.
When I said it was too late in my opinion to ask for forgiveness to the Sultana, I meant it in the sense that the UIS would get out without any trouble whatsoever. But as of now, many of us believe that for things to go back to normal, the Sultanate would want something in exchange to forgive your slack completely. Maybe better trade deals to their advantage, maybe the increase of relations to the detriment of other of your allies, etc. In any case, they would want something, that is for sure."

The Ambassador lets another beat pass, and takes another sip of water from his bottle.

"As for what they would do as payback, we don't know for sure. Some of my analyst colleagues believe it could be some propaganda to decrease your popularity, by maybe increasing support for General Sturnum who is a known critic of you, maybe trying to have others restrict their relations with you in terms of trade or diplomacy, etc.
I'm sorry that I, or my colleagues, can't give you a clear answer. But when you consider that even in their own country, with their Hyena Game, they are ready to go through various means to fight each other in the shadows, you have to be ready for anything."

"I am not trying to paint the Sultanate in a bad light for you to increase our influence here Your Highness, I just cite the facts the ACI has gathered so far. I just say this for you to be careful. And to that end, that's why I came to you, to ask for an immediate collaboration between the Shadow Knights and the ACI. We also have to coordinate regarding the actions we will carry out in the Sultanate."

"Finally, regarding the base, do as you want, we will respect your decision no matter what you choose. But know we are thankful for you to consider our offer.
Also, I hope I'm not overstepping my position, but I would like if possible to discreetly be there when you meet with Chancellor Dileva from Mervay. Would that please be possible Your Highness?" asks the Ambassador with a nice tone.

Marcella sighed. She really got herself into a mess didn't she, now she had to get out and still save face. The UIS needed to show strength now, more than ever. If she reneged now, she really would look like the silly unstable, overly emotional silly girl her critics said she was. If what the man said was also true, no doubt the Sultanate would use that to her advantage to really stomp all over her this time. "It really does sound like we can't let this be a bygones be bygones can we? Thank you for the information. I'll have alerts put out as quickly as I can. As for my meeting, I shall let you listen in, if you have some kind of listening device you can place, I can have you escorted to a private room out of sight. Asuna..."

Asuna opened the door

"Please escort our guest to a private conference room. And let Gisella in."

"As you wish. Come along sir."

With that Gisella came running in. "Hey."

"Sis, don't you think this is getting out of hand?"

"Oh it's well past that, Gisella."

"Listen, I know you're doing what you think is best, I'll stand by you and back you up as your sister but come one, we can put this to bed already. The Sultana is a reasonable woman, make peace."

"Gisella, you know the last time the Duchess hoped things could be resolved amicably with simple words she was taken as a prisoner."

"Wait, but mama was taken as an act of war.. We're not at war!"

"That we are not but the point is, mother stood up hoping to be the voice of reason to bring things to an end and negotiate. They wouldn't have it, they demanded her surrender or death on the spot. That's what made her the unifying figure that made us to the UIS today."

"But why do you think that she won't listen."

"They won't listen. They won't listen because they have no reason to listen. Stevid had no reason to listen to mother then, Kyrenaia has no reason to listen to me now. Perhaps Mervay will act as a nice third party but if not, then it's time we show the world we've come far as a nation, as a people. We're gonna stand on our two feet..." It was a bit hard to say that knowing they had two allies ready to jump to the call with little to ask in return. But Marcella had a cynical side to her, a side that was gnawing at her believing true altruism was a myth, someone always wanted something in return or had something to gang. The Imperium had the Matildas, Lamoni and Mokastana had a buffer against more powerful advisaries, this is how things are in global politics.

"dammit." Marcella cursed under her breath.

"Sis, really, it'll be all right. Come on, let's just let cooler heads prevail right? I really liked Aurelia, I did, she was so kind to me and you. And I still wish you two could be together, but come on, you can be good friends. How many monarchs in the past probably loved someone else but were betrothed out of another obligation? I bet so many. This could be no different. Things could change with a little patience right?"

"mmmm when did you get to be so smart, my little sister?"

"Watching you!"

Well that was that, now Marcella had to hear out Mervay's side of things.

Ducal Palace - Waiting Room

Marcella was busy the last few minutes between speaking with her sister and finishing her brief meeting with the Imperium's own representative who spoke with her on the urgent matters. Yoshi then was keeping Circe IV and Mrs. Dileva busy by at least serving them with tea and snacks of they desired. "Please excuse, My Lady, as you can imagine this situation is keeping her quite busy with so many trying to get their words in. You two okay, anything else I might be able to do for you while you wait?"

Satou Fujimiya-Diileva

The news was certainly a buzz about this whole predicament, everyone seemed to have their own opinions on it, especially her co-workers. As their shifts drew to a close they all spoke of what was going on in the news, they all had an opinion to share for, against or just apathetic.

One spoke out, "Personally, I feel Her Highness was making a daring political statement."

"And what statement is that? Throw a tantrum like a little kid?" Another responded

"I'm sure she could have handled it better, but still don't you think the Sultana was being unreasonable? I mean she can't be the only heir to their throne can she?"

Satou kind of half listened half didn't . The news had her a bit worried too, only because it seemed to be worrying Tess a lot. How to make her wife feel better, she didn't know. With news of her mother-in-law visiting the nation formally, it could only mean this was a big deal and not a simple "we just don't see eye to eye so let's go our own ways"

"Satou, your ma is visiting as the ambassador isn't she?"

"In-law, Tomi, in-law." Satou corrected

"Sorry, ma-in-law."

"She is. But I don't know if I'll get to see her personally on this."

"Still, must be big if someone of such a high rank has to come all the way down here."

"Maybe she just wanted an excuse to see her daughter, and daughter-in-law, you know check on them a little?"

"Maybe so. How is your wife doing, Satou?"

"She's well she's okay for the most part. I mean in general. But I think what's been going on last few days have got her a little rattled. I need to really ease her nerves a little."

"you could always..."

"Have a cookie, Mayu." An older co-worker stuffed the younger's mouth with a cookie, why, well she knew she'd throw out a dirty little suggestion.

"Treat her to a bath here. They always calm me down. Frankly with how much we're slowing down right now, can't imagine getting a private bath would be hard."

"Oh maybe I will, if she's feeling up to it."

Their conversation was interrupted with the enterace of the manager.

"Ladies, good day to you."

"Good day, manager."

"I'm certain you're all up on the latest news. I understand how something like this can be a bit stressful and maybe make you feel anxious. So I do urge if you feel you need to talk about it, my door is always open. So we do have customers so let's do our best to tend to them today, you all have your rounds?"

"yes ma'am."

"Very good, let's all get onto work now. Except you Satou, you're being summoned home."

She handed a simple note delivered a short time ago from Tess requesting Satou to urgently head home.

"Oh, yes it looks like Tess needs me."

"Well if you need the day, feel free but if you can make it back, at least to let me know that things are all right, I'd appreciate it."

"Thank you, manager."

Well whatever it was, Satou felt it best to head on home and take care of it right away. It wasn't a long dash home.

"Tessy, you here?" she called as she entered and indeed she was, looking certainly anxious.

"You okay?" Satou sat down, hopefully she was all right otherwise. Placing her hands on her wife's she listened intently. Tess family was urging them both to come home to Mervay. Well Satou still had her passport valid but still this seemed like a bit of a leap "I know you're a bit worried, I am a little too but are you sure this is necessary?" Tess certainly made plenty of good points, hard for Satou to refute any of them from where she was sitting. A simple waitress versus near nobility of Tess' line. Frankly, Satou was a bit outranked on this one. "If it does make them feel better and you better, well I'll go. Just let me get things at work settled first, okay?"

Aurora Ducal Palace - Night

Whatever happened in the day, happened, Marcella had her meetings, how they went, Shino would surely find out come morning like everyone else. This was weighing on her, she had to trust that Marcella would do what is right and in the strength of her own teachings. But still, maybe as a private citizen and as the former sovereign of AHSCA, she could do something to maybe well try to douse the flames if even just a little. That's why well into the evening, she'd been carefully quietly and contemplatively writing a letter to the Sultana herself, only appealing to her as a mother herself.

Your Grace,

I hope my letter finds you well and I hope you are still holding in good health and high spirits in spite of these rather contentious days that have come upon us. I'm writing to you, rather informally, not so much as the Former Duchess although I do hope that fact will get my letter through to you easily, tehehe. I'm really writing to you as a private citizen I guess, if you will take me at that. I'm not here to excuse my daughter's actions, condemn them as foolish or say right from wrong on this. Honestly, I feel that is now for her to discover that on her own, as she now holds the crown of our nation. No, I want to write to you, appealing as a mother myself, now former monarch and certainly a woman in love. I know you have your reasons to decide my daughter and your granddaughter should not be together, and well I feel I must respect that, regardless of how I feel about that personally. I know you are doing what you feel is best for your nation, your family, your line, and everything else.

At risk of making excuses, Marcella is truly my daughter and thus is my departed mother's granddaughter, and so on down the line. Our family history isn't really a big secret, I'm certain you've read up on it yourself and you'd probably understand, we Nanao women are all just a little foolish and impulsive and maybe stubborn and persistent for our own good. I want to share a story, a story that now I've only told Marcella about, and would like to share with you quietly and in your utmost confidence,

I understand how your dear Aurelia and Marcella must be feeling right now because I've been there myself. Many years ago, before we were the UIS, I too had my heart set on a special young woman that I found so lovely and appealing as my Marcella finds for your Aurelia and vice versa. But as such the circumstances of the years that came prevented that from being a thing. You know that I am married to a man, a wonderful man I must say, which did begin as a ploy for stability but is nothing but true love now. Nothing can shake that for me. What I'm getting at is, this is why I understand why you did what you felt you needed to do. I married to maintain our stability in the aftermath of the war, you feel the stability of your Sultanate rests with a sturdy lineage, well I presume, you may so correct me if you chose to reply to me. I truly empathize with you, Milady Sultana. We want happiness for our children, you with your own and your grandchildren and me with my two daughters but sometimes we have to sacrifice that a little in the interests of a greater purpose. I feel in time, Marcella will see the same, but for now, she'll blow off steam by being who she is.

I'm sad we never had the chance to meet in person, so I only hope the words of my letter will make things cool down a little. We believe in different kinds of deities but I still want to wish the blessings of the Goddesses upon you and your nation. I hope you will wish the same for us from yours.

All my best,
Shino Villa-Nanao

by **Mervay** » Mon Jun 21, 2021 8:56 pm

AHSCA wrote:Ducal Palace - Waiting Room

Marcella was busy the last few minutes between speaking with her sister and finishing her brief meeting with the Imperium's own representative who spoke with her on the urgent matters. Yoshi then was keeping Circe IV and Mrs. Dileva busy by at least serving them with tea and snacks of they desired. "Please excuse, My Lady, as you can imagine this situation is keeping her quite busy with so many trying to get their words in. You two okay, anything else I might be able to do for you while you wait?"

Satou Fujimiya-Diileva

The news was certainly a buzz about this whole predicament, everyone seemed to have their own opinions on it, especially her co-workers. As their shifts drew to a close they all spoke of what was going on in the news, they all had an opinion to share for, against or just apathetic.

One spoke out, "Personally, I feel Her Highness was making a daring political statement."

"And what statement is that? Throw a tantrum like a little kid?" Another responded

"I'm sure she could have handled it better, but still don't you think the Sultana was being unreasonable? I mean she can't be the only heir to their throne can she?"

Satou kind of half listened half didn't . The news had her a bit worried too, only because it seemed to be worrying Tess a lot. How to make her wife feel better, she didn't know. With news of her mother-in-law visiting the nation formally, it could only mean this was a big deal and not a simple "we just don't see eye to eye so let's go our own ways"

"Satou, your ma is visiting as the ambassador isn't she?"

"In-law, Tomi, in-law." Satou corrected

"Sorry, ma-in-law."

"She is. But I don't know if I'll get to see her personally on this."

"Still, must be big if someone of such a high rank has to come all the way down here."

"Maybe she just wanted an excuse to see her daughter, and daughter-in-law, you know check on them a little?"

"Maybe so. How is your wife doing, Satou?"

"She's well she's okay for the most part. I mean in general. But I think what's been going on last few days have got her a little rattled. I need to really ease her nerves a little."

"you could always..."

"Have a cookie, Mayu." An older co-worker stuffed the younger's mouth with a cookie, why, well she knew she'd throw out a dirty little suggestion.

"Treat her to a bath here. They always calm me down. Frankly with how much we're slowing down right now, can't imagine getting a private bath would be hard."

"Oh maybe I will, if she's feeling up to it."

Their conversation was interrupted with the enterace of the manager.

"Ladies, good day to you."

"Good day, manager."

"I'm certain you're all up on the latest news. I understand how something like this can be a bit stressful and maybe make you feel anxious. So I do urge if you feel you need to talk about it, my door is always open. So we do have customers so let's do our best to tend to them today, you all have your rounds?"

"yes ma'am."

"Very good, let's all get onto work now. Except you Satou, you're being summoned home."

She handed a simple note delivered a short time ago from Tess requesting Satou to urgently head home.

"Oh, yes it looks like Tess needs me."

"Well if you need the day, feel free but if you can make it back, at least to let me know that things are all right, I'd appreciate it."

"Thank you, manager."

Well whatever it was, Satou felt it best to head on home and take care of it right away. It wasn't a long dash home.

"Tessy, you here?" she called as she entered and indeed she was, looking certainly anxious.

"You okay?" Satou sat down, hopefully she was all right otherwise. Placing her hands on her wife's she listened intently. Tess family was urging them both to come home to Mervay. Well Satou still had her passport valid but still this seemed like a bit of a leap "I know you're a bit worried, I am a little too but are you sure this is necessary?" Tess certainly made plenty of good points, hard for Satou to refute any of them from where she was sitting. A simple waitress versus near nobility of Tess' line. Frankly, Satou was a bit outranked on this one. "If it does make them feel better and you better, well I'll go. Just let me get things at work settled first, okay?"

Circe IV of Mervay, Jessica Dileva, Colette Claudine Du cœur De Bellrose
In their travel and thankfully to that private communique sent, Ambassador Bellrose was now well informed of what did happened back at home regarding the incident; and how Her Majesty and Prime Minister were close of firing the Director General of RICO, yet he's walking through thin ice now as he knows well that this is his only chance at making things right and keeping an eye on the Astarians. It just, it just made her sigh as the fact that they of all people would do that; sure they were sometimes paranoic, militaristic and all, yet they certainly were true to their intentions at first and now... Well now, they just threw that trust bulit out the window with those in Asteria.
The Chancellor and Princess meanwhile; they did gained sleep from the travel and it didn't looked that they were on an long conversation, but there was no way to deny; they weren't exactly happy, yet who would right now? It is all spiralling out of control and the only thing that would break this whole mess was, may God or Solaria don't let that happen, an attack. When did this happened?

What made Marcella Villa and the Razia-Sultana of all people, tick off the way they did. One will try and make sure there's something to prove when this goes south, the other an viscious monarch of an nation which will not certainly take kindly the words said at her. Sooner or later the abyss will close to everyone and those who blink, will be those that will be saved of the flames of war.
For now they just; they just had to wait as it appeared there were many people who wanted a word with her; it wouldn't be surprising if the Astarians were on that list, for all they knew; all UIS allied nations were making their voices heard as well, Cartoonia the most recent example by what the news said; even then they had the whole list of government officers involved on this.
Jessica looked at Duchess Villa's maid and sighed.

"If it is for me, just some water." She said while looking at the Princess and the Ambassador, they nodded as well. "And for them as well..." She then leaned her face behind as she thought of the other difficult task she had ahead after this was done... Talking with her daughter. For all she knew, Tess will stall for time and make sure that at most they could stay until there was no return on this; she did saw this place as her second home. The Princess just held The Chancellor's hand, squeezing it to signal that everything was to be ok; all in all, the brunette was the one with most to lose not as an officer, but as a mother. After all, recklessness is the result of this; and now they were working on damage control hoping to extinguish the fire before the ship sinked. The Ambassador meanwhile, she looked at Yoshi and asked.

"If we may ask, who are meeting with The Duchess? Either an officer like Ministers VinoCacao, Kuraĝo and Minister Gozen; or foreign ambassadors wanting to have a word with The Duchess??"

Tess Dileva-Fujimiya
It did took a while, but she finally had came to an conclusion on what to say and do... She just hoped she wouldn't end up regretting this when push comes to shove. Her wife will be here in a few minutes and she certainly needed to calm down entirely; as such she begun to do all those calming methods she learned and... They didn't fully worked. Tess was anxious, completely trying to decide on what was best for them and yet also knowing the weight she had on her shoulders now that she has a wife and if all goes well, a family. She hasn't forgotten that, she has talked many times about it with Satou as many as she did with her. She hoped that they could set everything soon for such big step, and now...

"Tessy, you here?" Dammit. Not now when she was nervious and anxious. With her best, Tess gave her an smile albeit a bit shaking; she knew well her wife would easily noticed how was her condition, even with her best mask and Satou would yet notice she was acting weird and something was wrong.

"Yeah... I'm ok. Or at least as much as I can..." Tess sighed, her hand motioning Satou to sit with her at their bed as their hands linked together and the Mervayan looked at her wife's eyes, full of honesty. "Satou; you know very well how much the current situation is going and..." She tried to find the words to say that her parents wanted them back, and knew that the truth was better. "My parents are worried the conflict will escalate to an point of no return; the situation is, well, tense, and they believe that before everything explodes we should take our chances and prepare to go to Mervay in case a war does happen..." Her hands begun to tremble as she stopped, her wife asking if this was necessary; she nodded her head before continue.

"The Kyrenaian's are not to take such words kindly and everyone fears Duchess Villa might want to prove something as well, having an vengeful monarch and one who now has to save face is not an nice combination for peace..." She laughed bitterly, a woman who was seen as an wise head and an young monarch with so much promise; now having to deal with the mess they begun. When her wife said she would be willing to leave, something inside her made her feel relived. Yet, her heart crushed at having to ask the love of her life such thing when no one didn't know where the wind will blown completely. As such, with all the determination she could make use of; she looked at her and said what wasn't meant to be said, the words she planned all thrown away.

"No... Not yet..." Her voice was a whisper as an smile filled her face. "I appreciate you are willing to do this. But not yet; more when we are yet on the earlier steps of the conflict." She then gently caressed the cheeks of the woman in front of her; trying to continue.

"I will stall my mother for time; both she and my father will understand if I can convince them to wait until the last minute. I... I don't want you having to leave the place where you were born without a reason; and until we have one, I'll be sure they won't pressure us for the time being..." Her hands then broke off, the brunette looking down as she remembered a ghost. "My parents fear that we will be caught in the cross-fire you know? Normally, if this was an hurricane or storm, this wouldn't be a problem; we rode off one and a few of those heavy storms." She laughed hopefully to that before sighing.

"But war. It's different; more if you suffer it first hand." She didn't dared to look at her, not wanting to make the wrong impression with her words. "I've never told you this, but; there was once in a time where I almost lost my mother... It was all thanks to an war in an continent far from Mervay..." The undeclared war on Bolganio between Apotos and Yuktobania in the 2010's, a border conflict with the force of an war.

"My mother, as ambassador of Mervay in one of the affected countries mediated for a cease in hostilities ever since it begun, she was an constant on them. When a treaty was found and about to be signed... Terrorists bombed the building." Her voice became strained at mentioning that, yet, she took a deep breath and continued. "My mother came out heavily injured and..." She begun to have tears fall off her face; Satou would get the whole picture. But, Tess persisted and continued, even if she didn't want to.

"She survived thanks to an quick intervention and a miracle, but... She had to be on a wheelchair for a few months until she finally got better..." The event left a mark on their lives, one which only now was being felt. "My family was left scarred after that event... The scars only being felt now after we were able to move on from it; my mother was able to continue the negotiations even in the state she was and a few years later, here she is... Mervay's Foreign Minister." She finally looked at her wife, tears falling down her cheeks as she tried to keep herself together.

"But... I'll make sure to assure them... That what they fear won't happen... I'll make sure..." She then finally brokedown, tears beginning to fall down her face as so did her composture; those memories and fears all too real, things one doesn't want to remember even after one moves on. It was difficult to move on; more when it can all go that way...

by **Astares Amauricanum** » Tue Jun 22, 2021 3:02 am

Daniel Vincao in the UIS

"As a matter of fact, I have one." simply replies the Ambassador before taking out a small, circular box from his pack, and placing it under Marcella's seat. "Thank you for your time and willingness to work with us Your Highness. I will see you after the meeting with Dileva and the Princess." he adds, before being escorted out to a private conference room.

Silver Palace
Columbia District.

Once again, a meeting was happening regarding the latest events hapepning in the Malditas. Around the table of the Kelariel Blachkor Room, renamed in honor of Adrean's father, were the Imperial Couple, Foxter, the Secretary of State; Barrera, The Secretary of Defense; Ronald Petraeus, Director of the Astares Centralis Inteligentsia; and Vice Admiral Orjum Sostak, Diretor of the Forsvar Intelligentsia.

During the meeting, the latest elements had been reviewed and discussed:

-The presence of a Lamonian carrier battlegroup in the UIS vicinity.
-A sudden spike in communications from Mervay mainland towars many of their diplomatic posts, especially the ones in the UIS and the Imperium.

Regarding the latter point, it had been observed that after this surge in activity, no other communication had been detected by the ACI and FI, which led their technical analysts to think the Kingdom had enacted a new encryption protocol, that would take time to detect, and maybe crack. Needless to say, the two Directors had assured Their Majesties that they would do everything in their power to solve the situation.

But this also led to another evidence: if the Mervayans had enacted such a massive change so quickly, then there was a serious possibility they were considering the Astarians, or another party involved in the dispute, were listening on their diplomatic messages.
One thing for sure, any meeting in the future with the Mervayans would have to be done with careful words.

"Do anyone else have anything to say?" asks the Keisaer as the meeting comes to an end. In answer, all four men answer with a clear "No."

"Then you know what to do." continues Anna. "Patrick, Michael, send a message to the Lamonians authorities, offering our help in defense of the UIS. Petraeus, Sostak, continue working on cracking the new Mervayan codes."

"Yes Your Majesty." answers Foxter. "And what do we do about the Kyrenaian's lack of reaction?"

"They are ignoring us, we ignore them. Besides, the spying operation with the Shadow Knights is nearly underway, so we'll be hearing from them soon enough." finishes the Keisaerina.

Without any other questions needing to be asked, and all said and done, each one stands up from their seats, and go back to their respective work places...

From:
Michael Foxter, Secretary of State of the Federalis Imperium of Astares Amauricanum
Patrick Barrera, Secretary of Defense of the Federalis Imperium of Astares Amauricanum

To:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Free Republic of Lamoni
Ministry of Defense of the Free Republic of Lamoni

Subject:
Defense of the United Island States of AHSCA

Encryption: Maximum

To who it may concern, greetings.

Although our two nations never interacted with each other, we would like to say first that we had hoped it would have been under better circumstances.

To be short and not take much of your time, we will go straight to the point: our two nations are allied with the United Island States of AHSCA, and have pledged to defend them if they are ever attacked.
In our case, we settled in 2019 in the small arrchipelago located 1200 km south of the UIS, known as the Islas Malditas. According to the principles of Terra Nullius, these islands were not owned by anyone, so we legally occupied them, and started building various infrastructures, among them a certain number of military bases and assets.

For many nations, this has been seen as an agressive move, who would maybe threaten the UIS. But while we have assured Duchess Marcella Villa and her government we have no quarrel or agressive intenttions towards AHSCA, skepticism remains high for others. And now, with the breaking of relations between the UIS and the Sultanate of Kyrenaia, these doubts are coming back, stronger than ever.

We will not judge if the actions of the Duchess are right or wrong, we just want to let you know that no matter what, we will defend the UIS against all threats, whether they are external or internal.
While we have yet to make this statement public for everyone, as to not increase tensions which are currently brewing, as you are also allies of AHSCA, we thought it would be appropriate to let you know our stance on the matter.

Given the fact you have a carrier and her battlegroup in the vicinity of the UIS, we would like to know if you would be willing for us to establish a contact, to maybe coordinate possible future defense plans for AHSCA.

We hope this message finds you in good health.
Reply at your own convenience.

Sincerily yours,

Signed,
Secretary of State: Michael Foxter
Scertary of Defense: Genral Patrick Barrera.

by **Kyrenaia** » Tue Jun 22, 2021 6:16 am

Official Press Release of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Kyrenaia

On the matter of the current relations between the Sultanate of Kyrenaia and the United Island States of AHSCA as well as their allies:
In the Name of 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 honoured to publish this message.
It has come to the attention of the Sultana and the Sultanate, that various nations have taken an interest in the current situation between the UIS and the Sultanate. Many of them fear the worst.
I was asked by Her Majesty, the Sultana of Kyrenaia to make it known to the International Community, that She is not Her predecessor. While She acknowledges, that under the Rule of Kian-Sultan, which ended in 1972 with His death, the UIS would have long since fallen victim to the shells of Kyrenaian Battleships and Aurora reduced to a pile of smouldering ashes and burned cinders, there are no such plans under Her Rule.
The Sultanate was insulted, that is true, and the Sultanate will demand recompenses, that is also true, but the Sultanate will not demand those at gunpoint. The Sultanate will go the peaceful route of mediation by the friends shared between the Sultanate and the UIS, namely the mediation by the Kingdom of Mervay.
As it is surely known, the first steps into that direction are happening as this message is published, with high-ranking members of the Mervayan Government meeting with high-ranking members of the Government of the UIS and of the Sultanate.

On the matter of the deployment of Carrier Group 5 of the Sultan's Navy in the general vicinity of the UIS, in particular of RKN Eanqa and her escorts, the High Command of the Sultan's Navy asked me to add, that this deployment is in conjunction with the Resolution to suppress International Piracy (GAR #20). The Sultanate, while not a member of the World Assembly, has signed and obliged itself to the implementation of this Resolution (as well as a number of other international agreements of that organization) in 2010.
The Sultanate reaffirms the Guarantees given on the 27th of November 2017.

For all communication by state-actors, please send your messages to:
Azad Safir, Vizier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Qaleatan Maktab, Utica, Ilkhanate of Utica, Sultanate of Kyrenaia.
For all communication by non-state-actors and press, please send your messages to:
Public Relations Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sub-Department 01, Qaleatan Maktab, Utica, Ilkhanate of Utica, Sultanate of Kyrenaia.
As usual, messages sent to the wrong recipient will not be replied to!

To: P.C. Prince - Leader for the International Liberal Liberation Front.
From: Household Agency of the Palace of the Azure Hall.

Dear Mister Prince,
in the name of the Sultana, I wish to thank you for your fan letter to Her. Unfortunately, the Sultana is a very busy woman and thus can not respond to every letter personally, hence why I was tasked with that.
In regards to the rights and duties of the LGBTQ+-Community in Kyrenaia, I wish to add, that the discussions are still ongoing, but, due to recent events on the international stage, gone from the forefront of media attention.

With kind regards,
Karim Usra,
Household Agency of the Palace of the Azure Hall.

Mervay wrote:[...]

Callista IV of Mervay
After an nice rest from that whole debacle with the Astarians having spied on their communications and almost firing the RICO Director General, Agus was to enjoy and relax; she was certainly in need of as soon as she see her friend; it has been a while since Aurelia and her saw each other, Montrose was a long time behind by now. But now she was here, able to enjoy with her friend and the one who now certainly needed some support.
She looked down at her clothes and smiled. She did pride herself of always being a dynamic on her styles after all, besides her there the ever trustworthy escorts she had, Agent Williams of Mirage, the secretive Intelligence Organization that answered to the Crown and was under official control of the Committee as an specialized joint unit and Agent Darius from the Black Knights, her secretive escort and special forces unit; it was a shame she couldn't be able to request a few more guards, but circunstances required it and they were well prepared as well; meanwhile Rosewell and Monteprieto had to stay back at home to take care of her sister back in Mervay, understandable considering she would take the throne if something bad happened.

But she shouldn't complain as the Tabardariyya was protecting her and escorting her to Malakiard Palace, she trusted this would end well and was enjoying the wiew; a break of the entire madness she had to deal on the plane and how this whole situation was literally going out of control. In fact, she asked herself what was what ticked off so much Marcella Villa to do that beyond the rejection of the compromise; did the Sultana said anything that ticked her off her nerves or they both just let themselves lose on the whole debate? Dear, this was madness.

Her guard and maid whispered to her that they were getting close and if she noticed something, was that there were two protests going on by the looks of it, protesters divided by the authorities and if she had to say something; it was...

"Of course" She groaned in italian as she saw the situation; of course there would be protests in solidarity for Aurelia and against her, she was certainly an divisive figure around Kyrenaia. She just sighed and hoped the whole travel through the crowd won't have any trouble, as she watched the majestic place where her friend lives. Fancy.

Pandareos III of Mervay
The Palace of the Azure Hall. It's certainly marevelous when you see it on first person, that's for sure. And here he was. His Suit was certainly noth what you expect for these types of days, but it worked and it worked well on this climate; as he only had an shirt and tie beneath his coat. He stepped out of the vehicle as soon as it stopped, the maids and butlers he brought were to stay with his belongings as he went up the elevator.
The handmaiden opened the door for him to enter to the gallery; passing through the frescoes as he smiled at the maiden as she lead him to The Sultana; The Prince smiled at her before his attention went at his surrundings; hedid noticed themandfound them pretty beautiful, certainlya work to admire, life. The garden was certainly to admire as well, so that rosebush that decorated the opposite wall.

Pandareos accepted the offer of his host and joined her in, there he found two women fencing, a red haired woman which he remembered to had read of, The Ilkhana of Megido; she was a woman of undeniable beauty and strength, one to never mess with. But so he could say the same or more of the woman which caught his interest; Dschamila bint-Fadi, The Flower of Fenchu. A woman of steel like the blades she masters, heiress to the Ilkhanate of Fenchu and if the whispers got it right, she was also an well known critic of Princess Aurelia. Tight and formal, yet relaxed when it came to children. She was... Interesting to say the least.

"My apologies for my lateness Sultana, but; we had to deal with an pestering problem regarding our common worry." He said to her, smiling warmly before returning his focus back to the duel at play; his eyes don't taking any chances as he watched it play. He might not be an expert on the type of swords they use, but he was an professional and skilled fencer. "Such beautiful place I've must say, worthy of such duel we have the honour to be witness of..."

[...]

Altinyarat-Palace, Malakiard, Khanate of Khond.
Princess Aurelia bint-Damir.
I did not know, that Callista found my little Altinyarat-Palace fancy from the outside, but I knew, that she would love the inside. Or, I hoped, rather.
That was a little, vain part of my mind, which was banished to the back of my head as I stood in front of the citadel and main living building. The motorcade passed the first curtain wall, through the office spaces, then through the second and into the private main living area.
While most of the escort had left them by the second gate, the remainder broke off now, towards the repurposed stables, and left the limousine alone and in front of the main staircase.
Six men of the Tabardariyya stood at attention, a small guard of honour, their large axes shouldered, another six Handmaidens standing at the ready for their cues.
One of the Tabardariyya, though this one without the axe, opened the door for Callista and she looked as smart and beautiful (and a little bit sexy) as back in Octobre, during the state visit.
The court photographer began making his pictures, especially as the tall man in armour offered his hand to Callista to aid her with leaving the car. He would make his snapshots of our meeting, where I would smile and laugh, before we would go inside.
Sarina, standing behind me with a tray and two glasses of water in a gesture familiar to Callista, would be the only witness to that, aside from Callista's 'handmaidens'.
I knew, that she had them along and that they were, just like mine, more then just servants.

Gallery, Palace of the Azure Hall, Utica.
Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad.
I smiled and nodded. “It is alright.”, I said and turned back to the duel, “If I would have received a Barqa for every time I was late during my reign because of worries in matters of state, I would be able to buy the UIS wholesale...”
...thus ending this entire issue with little problems.
But that was not the point. He was right, this was a beautiful place, the reason why I had him take the route through the garage, the duel between the two experts on the blade, however, was another reason.
Of course, Aynur used the Lasite Type 4 Sabres, a testament to her heritage as a woman from the mountains, which, a long time ago, had been beset by bandits with flaming red hair. Dschamilla, on the other hand, wielded Jalidi Sabres, long blades with a vicious spike, which had been used to crack armours.
One should note, that the blades barely met as both women were like whirlwinds of steel, Aynur being on the offensive with a broad stroke, followed by a twirl into a slash down from up above. Dschamilla dodged, rolled to the left, where Aynur's cover was wide open and jumped up from the ground in an explosion of energy out into a vicious attack.
Now, Aynur was on the defensive, folding her right knee to dodge a swing at her head.
Now inside of Dschamilla's defense, she tried to ram the handle of her sabre into Dschamilla's stomach, but the other woman was clever, one heard the muffled thump of the pommel hitting armour.
Dschamilla grinned as she brought her other blade down.
Aynur was rolling forward before she knew, what was happening. The redhead now had her back to us, forcing her opponent to look into our direction – for but a brief moment, she noticed me and, if I were correct, Prince Pandereos.
Aynur used the moment for a relentless attack, forced Dschamilla back, into dodging and – finally – the characteristic ring of two swords meeting sounded as Dschamilla had to block, both swords crossed over her head, Aynur's sabre between them.
And a moment later, she had Aynur's fist in her stomach's armour.
The younger woman broke, stumbled back slightly, enough for Aynur to finish her off by ripping her feet out under her. Dschamilla fell and had the tip of Aynur's blade at her throat but a moment later.
I applauded politely.
“You still lack focus.”, the older Ilkhana said in English, “Wouldn't you agree, Prince Pandereos?”
Meanwhile, a Handmaiden came forward, offering glasses of water to both the guests, myself and the two combatants. Drinking was important in this heat, but I was just as much looking forward to the reply of the young Prince.

AHSCA wrote:[...]

Your Grace,

I hope my letter finds you well and I hope you are still holding in good health and high spirits in spite of these rather contentious days that have come upon us. I'm writing to you, rather informally, not so much as the Former Duchess although I do hope that fact will get my letter through to you easily, tehehe. I'm really writing to you as a private citizen I guess, if you will take me at that. I'm not here to excuse my daughter's actions, condemn them as foolish or say right from wrong on this. Honestly, I feel that is now for her to discover that on her own, as she now holds the crown of our nation. No, I want to write to you, appealing as a mother myself, now former monarch and certainly a woman in love. I know you have your reasons to decide my daughter and your granddaughter should not be together, and well I feel I must respect that, regardless of how I feel about that personally. I know you are doing what you feel is best for your nation, your family, your line, and everything else.

At risk of making excuses, Marcella is truly my daughter and thus is my departed mother's granddaughter, and so on down the line. Our family history isn't really a big secret, I'm certain you've read up on it yourself and you'd probably understand, we Nanao women are all just a little foolish and impulsive and maybe stubborn and persistent for our own good. I want to share a story, a story that now I've only told Marcella about, and would like to share with you quietly and in your utmost confidence,

I understand how your dear Aurelia and Marcella must be feeling right now because I've been there myself. Many years ago, before we were the UIS, I too had my heart set on a special young woman that I found so lovely and appealing as my Marcella finds for your Aurelia and vice versa. But as such the circumstances of the years that came prevented that from being a thing. You know that I am married to a man, a wonderful man I must say, which did begin as a ploy for stability but is nothing but true love now. Nothing can shake that for me. What I'm getting at is, this is why I understand why you did what you felt you needed to do. I married to maintain our stability in the aftermath of the war, you feel the stability of your Sultanate rests with a sturdy lineage, well I presume, you may so correct me if you chose to reply to me. I truly empathize with you, Milady Sultana. We want happiness for our children, you with your own and your grandchildren and me with my two daughters but sometimes we have to sacrifice that a little in the interests of a greater purpose. I feel in time, Marcella will see the same, but for now, she'll blow off steam by being who she is.

I'm sad we never had the chance to meet in person, so I only hope the words of my letter will make things cool down a little. We believe in different kinds of deities but I still want to wish the blessings of the Goddesses upon you and your nation. I hope you will wish the same for us from yours.

All my best,
Shino Villa-Nanao

It was far later in the day, that I got to reply to another letter I had received over the day:

To: Shino Villa-Nanao.
From: Razia-Sultana Umm Albilad.

Personal Correspondence.
Not to be released.

I do not know, how to begin this letter, which appellation to use. In my culture, stepping down as a reigning monarch is considered treason of the highest order. As you abdicated in favour of your daughter, no matter the circumstances, you committed that treason.
So... should I call you “Your Majesty”? “Your Grace”? “Mistress Villa-Nanao”?
Allow me to go with, simply, “Shino.”
The two of us are too old to worry about small things such as the correct appellation in our personal correspondence.

That being said, Shino, I am sad to hear of yet another case of love made impossible by the times and stations we occupy.
Allow me to return the confidentiality, which you showed to me, with a bit of confidentiality myself – I, too, love someone, who I will never again hold. Dschafar, by beloved husband, has passed away in 1985 and while the finest young stallions Kyrenaia has to offer do their utmost to satisfy certain needs, my heart was empty for a long time. It is now filled with love for him, for my children and my grandchildren.
I firmly believe, that, in time, your daughter and my granddaughter will find new people to fill their hearts – never forgetting what once was, but also finding new love.
I want happiness for Aurelia, I want to see her smile and laugh and play with a child of her own, maybe even several, the Gods permitting. I want to see our line strong and stable. I want to see Kyrenaia strong and stable and fit for the future.
Maybe an old fossil like me is not the right person in this day and age, but I will be damned before I leave my post.

That leaves us with the diplomatic issue – let me be frank: I do not plan to give in to the hawks' cries for bombs falling on Aurora. I do not want, that this matter destroys more then it already has.
I, however, doubt, that your daughter would believe my words when she reads them in this letter. As you said, she is, who she is.
And she, like too many people, fears, that I am too much of a child of my era, that too much of the Decolonization Wars and the countless atrocities committed during them, is still on my mind – they are not incorrect, they are on my mind, but as something I do not want, not on the UIS, not anywhere.
This is the reason why I agreed to the offer of the Queen of Mervay to mediate. They are friends to both of our nations and I am sure, that with their aid, we will reach a compromise suitable for all.

May Manat bless us with good fortunes.

With kind regards,
Razia,
Lady of the Five Deserts.

RKN Aurelia, off Naval Station Mokastana Northeast.
Captain Tarek Lahwa.
So, here we were... Mokastana Northeast was rigged and we were gone.
Ten kilometers offshore, RKN Aurelia, a new Pattern A Littoral Operations Vessel, had gone alongside, together with the rest of the station ships, which were now carrying us home. We would meet with a frigate and a troop transport in international waters, that had been announced as such, but for now...
Lieutenant Aurelia Muflisa, a woman, who was as charming as she was equipped with 'additional ballast tanks', joined my side. “Everyone is aboard, Captain.”, she reported.
I nodded. The Last Rollcall, then, had been completed successfully. We had all left the base.
Commander Ilia Kuranaria, a former explosives specialist of the Fleet Ground Forces, was on my far side. “I am ready, too.”
He had been the main person behind rigging the base.
I nodded again.
“Do you want to do the honours, Lieutenant?”, I asked politely, “Don't be shy.”
“If none of you objects...”, she said with a small, giddy smile. Who could hold it against her – she got to blow stuff up massively without any repercussions to her. Once she got the detonator, she looked to me. I nodded. Her scream was loud: “Fire in the hole!”
A row of small puff went out in the main barracks building, making it fold neatly onto itself, a fate shared by the secondary barracks, the main building and the mess hall with the small attached, and almost unused, hospital.
Silence.
“Well, that was...”
I had not noticed the small grin on Kuranaria's face.
The last word of the sentence went under as the ammunition storage under the small hill to the side, on which we had set up the radar station, went off. There was a fountain of dirt and rock rising high into the air as the hill cased to exist in a violent fireball.
And not only that, the fuel storage went off like a gasoline bomb – a fountain of fire blasted into the landing pads for the helicopters, melting the concrete and setting off additional charges, which drove small bombs through the pads and under the concrete, where they exploded violently, additional volcanoes of dirt erupting.
And not only that, this second sequence also saw the detonation of charges pertaining our sewage and other underground infrastructure, making the tunnels cave in, before charges similar to the ones used on the helipads detonated along the piers and the quay wall, making them go up in a fountain of rubble.
In the distance, where we once had security checkpoints and nests for heavy defensive emplacements, those went off, too, leaving craters.
It was like rolling thunder as the shockwaves washed over us, like the anger of an ancient god has descended upon Mokastana Northeast in a pyrotechnical display, that I knew, I would never see again.
I think I saw a few pieces of rock from our radar hill impacting the water not too far away.
I knew, that I had warned the local authorities due to a seismic event occurring in our base, but I had not imagined... this.
Mokastana Northeast was no more. If there would ever be something again, Manat alone knew that.
Kuranaria wore a grin like an artist, who's new collection of images had just won many, many awards. Needless to say, that he wore a satisfied grin the next morning and that Muflisa was rather bashful and unwilling to look at him.

A Messy Breakup (Private)

A Messy Breakup (Private)

Reply Part I

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