The Brothers War | IC (Closed)

[Jedoria]

To: Prince Constantine XX, Prince Michael of Latium
From: Foreign Minister Dragomir Rotaru
Subject: Situation in Latium
Encryption: High

Dear sirs,

Given recent events unfolding within the Latin Empire, I'm sure you can understand the concern an outside observer feels for the cause of peace. Recent events in the Empire are troubling to say the least, but for now I will refrain from commenting on greater detail, as that is not the intention of this letter.

While both of you have maintained your desire towards peace, (a claim I trust and have informed my colleagues of), you must understand the concern the Confederation has regarding the safety of our allies and trade partners in Acheron. While your intentions are not questioned, history tells us that caution is virtue that should not be ignored. Therefore, it is my intention to inform both of you of the actions taken by the Confederation with regards to recent events.

Firstly, several naval vessels of the Confederate Navy are to be deployed to waters in and around the Noviteran-Latin strait. The mission of these vessels is to safeguard and secure the shipping and commercial interests of the Confederation, an action that will hopefully prove unnecessary, but I hope you will forgive our caution. In the interest of transparency I have informed you of this development in to avoid any potential surprise or confrontation that may arise from this action.

I hope and pray that a peaceful solution to this conflict be achieved, and offer the services of my government as an intermediary. Otherwise, I can only hope that innocent lives are not taken in this crisis of succession.

Kind Regards,
Dragomir Rotaru, Foreign Minister of the Jedorian Confederation

The Confederate Navy was organized into task forces focused around one of the nation's four carriers, with smaller forces composed of combinations of frigates, destroyers and submarines. Ships were rotated throughout the normal patrol patterns maintained by the Confederation's maritime defensive network. The Furious Redemption was normally assigned to patrols between Jedoria's northern coast and the interior, until it was ordered to move 150 kilometers east of the Makos coastline and rendezvous with it's sister ship, the Tranquil Composure. From there the two ships sailed north where they met with the Commitment and Patience, which had ended trials early for it's target acquisition radar to take part in the deployment.

The Primordium and the Kypsela were diverted from planned exercises to take part as well, sailing from farther south in the Jedorian Gulf at top speeds to meet with the rest of the small task force. Once all were accounted for and ready to move, the group set sail for the Noviteran-Latin Strait, sailing west of the United Federation. At their current heading and speed they would arrive in only a few days.

[New Edom]

To: His Imperial Majesty Michael VIII, Emperor of the Latins
From: His Royal Majesty King Elijah IV of the Allied States of New Edom
Subject: Condolences
Encryption: Moderate

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Your Majesty

I was sorry to hear of the death of His Imperial Majesty the Emperor Jason. I hope that the tragic circumstances of his death are made clear to you and your family. In the meantime, on behalf of Queen Mara and myself, I can only give my sincerest prayers for your family in this time of grief, and hope and pray to Almighty God that you will receive, by His good grace, the will, strength, courage and wisdom to rule your people well. If there is anything that I can do to ease your passage into the mighty concerns of head of state, please do not hesitate to ask.

I have the honour to be
Elijah IV
King of the Allied States of New Edom

[Jedoria]

Machinations

A series of high level meetings were conducted by the Confederate Intelligence Service in conjunction with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to determine a solid policy to adopt to deal with the situation ongoing in Latium. Primary information had been provided by the Jedorian Embassy in Castellum ab Alba, with the CIS offering what limited intelligence it had gathered on the Latin Empire. While explicit details and insider information was lacking, there was still enough to lay down some basic facts that the Confederates could draw some conclusions from. It was from this assessment that the Confederates intended to establish how they would proceed with regards to the potential succession crisis unfolding in Latium.

For starters, Latium as a whole. The Latin Empire was a modernized, prosperous state, smaller than the Confederation in population significantly, but it's economy wasn't far behind thanks to a vibrant business environment and high productivity. Jedorian economic success by contrast was built on the expanse of it's industrial base and wealth of natural resources, so despite it's larger size the average Jedorian citizen had a lower standard of living compared to their Latin counterpart. A war would certainly prove hard on the average Latin citizen, depriving them of many of the commodities and goods they were used to having access to.

The Latin Armed Forces protected the Empire and were divided into the Legions, the Praetorian Guard, the Navy and Air Force. Overall their loyalty was not clear at the moment. The Praetorians numbered at least 65,000 and likely more, and were loyal to Constantine. Overall the Latin Armed Forces numbered over 300,000, though that still was smaller than the Confederate Army. The Latin Army consisted of 111,628 personnel while the Navy employed one carrier, eleven submarines, three amphibious ships, seven destroyers, fourteen frigates and a number of smaller vessels.

But without a clear picture of which force was supporting which claimant to the throne, it was difficult to establish exact numbers for either side.

Next was the former Emperor, Jason VI Augustus, now deceased. The Emperor had been a mix of a popular and controversial leader. His support of democratic ideals and opposition to administrative corruption had garnered the support of many Latins, but his rough history with regards to his marriages had soured his relationship with the Church. His infidelity aside he had been largely viewed as a pragmatic leader, perhaps a bit rough around the edges but overall not a bad national leader. The nature of his death is what drew concern, however; at age 52 Jason was no longer a young man, but neither really old either. For a wealthy and modernized state like Latium, to die of natural causes when access to modern medicine and technology was surely afforded to national leadership seemed bizarre. While in other circumstances it might have been accepted as act of misfortune, the nature of the death only provoked further inquiry.

The reports of gunfire and fighting within the Palace, right after the Emperor's death, and followed by the surprising ascension of Prince Michael to the Throne, all did much to arouse Jedorian suspicion. Constantine, after all, being the elder son, was largely seen as the presumed heir. The disappearance of the Prince did little to dissuade conspiracies, and when he did finally reveal himself, he did so with the announcement of a new will, this one apparently legitimate and describing Constantine, not Michael, as the true heir to the Latin throne., while also confirming some less than flattering rumors regarding the former Emperor Jason.

After review by the CIS, it was concluded that in all likelihood the second will, the one which established Constantine as the true heir, was in fact the legitimate will. This was based on two main points; number one it matched up well with previously established law as well as expectations. Number two, the revelation and confirmation of the former Emperor's affairs and long suspected infidelity appeared genuine, in part due to the reaction from the Prince himself, but also the fact that the revelation of such information seemed genuine as well. After all, if it had been faked, and the will was just a means to make Constantine's claim to the throne, adding that sordid detail wouldn't do much at all to back up the claim, and might even harm it. Therefore, the CIS reported their suspicions that Prince Michael had presented a fake will to back up his claim while Constantine was in fact the true heir based on previous expectations and legal proceedings, in addition to the circumstances of which the information was released.

Although direct empirical evidence was lacking, what information was available appeared to support the following conclusion: That Prince Michael, acting with support of the Scholae Palatinae, had killed Emperor Jason and attempted to seize control of the throne, forcing his brother Constantine to flee along with several other members of the royal family. Constantine's announcement and alleged will appeared to make him the legitimate heir, and the details that were available did little to cast doubt on that claim.

Part of what helped the Jedorian government arrive at this conclusion was that many senior members of the government were experienced in this kind of situation specifically. Most of the nationalists in power had just a few months prior conspired to and successfully assassinated their own Duke, and seized power following his death. Of course to the outside world, that was all passed off as a terrible terrorist attack. The differences however were stark; the nationalists had spent months planning our their endeavor, meeting in shadows and working to ensure once the Duke was dead there was nothing to stop their seizure of power, and it had worked. No domestic threat had risen to challenge the new government, and no foreign power had yet to step up and challenge the Confederation.

Michael, on the other hand, seemed to be facing down a succession war. Different strokes for different folks, it would seem.

All the above information was compiled into an official report and handed over to the Duke by the Foreign Minister, after which Zaharia met with his cabinet to determine an official policy. It was the opinion of Foreign Minister Rotaru that the Confederation should intervene in the conflict should it break out in support of Prince Constantine, as it appeared by what evidence was available that he was the true heir. Furthermore, the Demphorians, Latin allies, were apparently moving to intervene themselves. Not all ministers supported involvement; Minister of Culture Haralamb Rusu openly wondered why the Confederation should involve itself in the affairs of an infidel nation, especially one composed of Christians. Rotaru disagreed, pointing out that Christians in Latium posed no threat to the Confederation, and indeed, becoming friendly with a Christian state would do much to dispel the claims of anti-Christian sentiment in Jedoria. After all, the Confederation was already an ally to Chaco and Ashab, both Catholic states. What harm would come from adding another to the mix?

As usual, Zaharia agreed with Rotaru but stressed caution for now, and maintained that the Confederation would wait for actual fighting to break out before considering direct involvement. Nevertheless, Minister of Defense Remus Gherghel and Field Marshall Bianca Cernea were tasked with organizing a possible task force that could respond to the situation in Latium.

A preliminary study suggested the following naval vessels could be deployed if necessary; the Annihilator-class aircraft carrier All Under Heaven, supported by the cruisers Reliquary and Uthera Midgeerrd, with the destroyers Enforcer, Light of Aidan, Sabie, Rege, Followers of Kerensky, the frigates Enduring Hope, Trust and Faith, Silentium, Larissa, Egeta, Defiant, with an undetermined number of submarines. If necessary, the 1st Naval Infantry Division could be loaded onto transports and deployed as well. Task Force Lion was the as of yet unofficial name for the collection of ships that would be sent to Latium if the order came down.

To: United Federation Department of State, Executor Eric Douglas
From: Foreign Minister Dragomir Rotaru
Encryption: Highest
Subject: Latium

Dear Executor,

I hope this letter finds you in good health. As our ally and closest trade partner it is the wish of my government that our two states remain in constant communication to determine combined policy endeavors and to ensure continued cooperation with regards to any potential situation that arises.

As you may be aware, a situation has developed in the Latin Empire regarding the succession to the Latin throne. Previously, it was believed that Prince Constantine the XX would be the presumed heir based on official expectations and previously established legal proceedings. However, following the surprisingly early demise of Emperor Jason, it was in fact Prince Michael that was declared the new Emperor.

However, since that declaration several concerns have risen. Around the time of the death of Emperor Jason, reports came in from the Palace of Augustus of gunfire and fighting, followed by the disappearance of Prince Constantine and several members of the royal family. Only a short while ago, Prince Constantine turned up in Adrionople and with him came the announcement of a new will, this one proclaiming Constantine the true heir to the Latin Throne. Given the information revealed by this new will, as well as the suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of Emperor Jason and the claims of Prince Michael, it is the opinion of the Confederation that Prince Michael, with assistance from the Scholae Palatinae, assassinated the Emperor and is now attempting to seize power. It now appears likely that a war of succession is rapidly approaching.

While the Confederation does not have deep seeded ties with the Empire, it's close proximity to our trade partners in Tericio and to our allies in your United Federation is a great concern to my government. In order to assure the safety of our combined commercial interests, the Confederate Navy has dispatched several vessels to the Noviteran-Latin strait to maintain the security of our shipping and trade.

Furthermore, given our previously stated suspicions regarding the death of the Emperor and the claims of Prince Michael to the throne, our intervention in what appeared to be a rapidly approaching civil conflict in Latium seems likely. Should that arise, I wish to further communicate between our governments a combined response to the situation.
If your have any inquiries or concerns, please feel free to contact me.

Kind Regards,
Dragomir Rotaru, Foreign Minister of the Jedorian Confederation[/b]

[The Demphorian Kingdoms]

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Official Diplomatic Communiqué of Government of the the Kingdom of Demphor, Élbannin and Duís
Oifigeil Dioplòmasach Fios-Oifigeil nà Riaghaltais nà Rìoghachd nà Démpharás, Élbaniøs & Duís

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From: The Right Honourable Sylvester Dermot, Secretary of State and Foreign Affairs for the Kingdom of Demphor, Élbannin and Duís
To: Constantine XX, Emperor of the Latins

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Presented to the recipient in the utmost secrecy.

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Your Majesty,

I have been instructed by His Majesties Government to notify you of the embarkation of Demphorian naval and marine forces to Latium, for the specific purpose of securing the port of Aarhusium. The Demphorian government shall state publicly that this port shall be used as an evacuation point for all foreign persons in Latium wishing to be evacuated from your country.

At this same time, the Demphorian government shall state explicitly that it shall be using the port to provide support for your forces. We appreciate the communication by your forces of munitions and other supplies they may require in the event of confrontation with Michael's forces.

The Demphorian forces seek permission for the occupation of Aarhusium to support Latin forces in support of Constantine XX and hope that our forces will be able to cooperate in full with your forces.

From the undersigned,

Sylvester Dermot
Rùnaire na Stàite agus Dàimh-Coimheach
Rìoghachd nà Démpharás, Élbaniøs & Duís
14 September 2016

[The IASM]

13th of September 2016

“Reason and judgment are the qualities of a leader.”

Da Migong
Xungong
Xuan
Akai

HOUSHENG

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Housheng found the Ditu’s wing of Da Migong to be a very poor description of the huge and sprawling nature of them. She, as a Lazin, had lived in this palace for most of her life and yet the size of its sprawling tentacles which feasted upon the landscape with an unfettered attitude which matched Jieke’s own. The Ditu’s wing itself was a built the edge and over a waterfall, on the side of the great fierce mountain’s black side. There was a certain anachronistic feel to it; the reactionary modernist rejection of the new forms of beauty while using the application of modern technology was certainly bizarre. Hulang always spoke of it being Jieke’s style - to embrace both the old and the new for a bizarre synthesis.

But to look upon its curving walls which were composed black metallic fused scales, and its singular magnificent tower from which you could see the entire island it seemed. It was covered in gold, the patterns it possessed were all singularly ornate and ancient. The script was seemingly familiar to Akai but also equally bizarre and alien in its bizarre character. It was quantifiably ancient, and the meaning of its text most likely kept to the memories of those who could learn to understand it. Beneath these markings were patterns of a three dimensional nature, forming shifting images of eldritch angels of whose dragon like forms seemed strangely drawn to the black sun which was held above the door. As Hosheng approached it even closer it was even more curious - it had thirteen monolith shaped rectangles surrounded an eye looking ever vigilant in its observations.

Housheng was with her father, Prince-Ditoral Qiang Lazin, one of the few men in Akai who had the misfortune of being related to both Jieke and Yanfeng. Alas, he was one of the few stars of the military’s internal political scene; embracing a philosophy which often associated him with the ‘defensive’ cliques. He was considered defensive as his attitude towards war was one which did not overtly aggressive in its manifestation and was significantly more restrained. He possessed a certain gentlemanly brutality to himself with seemed oh so wonderfully well suited to a nation like Akai. His toned physique while fading, sill provided a grand sense of strength to the man, whose character remained strong and full of fortitude.

Housheng herself was his daughter, one of three triplets who were born in 1999 - a year before the current Ditor. She was a squire for her father, wanting to live up to his reputation as a magnificent general she was fortunate to have a family in the highest of places.

As she approached the doors, with her father, two Riyeskonsu appeared carrying old Class 53 rifles, with their bayonets prominently fitted in a manner which allowed them to look like spheres. They were coated in a layer of carbon fibre it seemed, instead of the old woodwork which usually covered such rifles. “Your Heavenly Highness, your highness” the guards spoke, prostrating before them until their white masks touched the floor. “His Perfection and His Sublime Grace are awaiting you in the tower room.”

And with this the doors opened, slowly and cautiously as they always did. What always astounded Housheng was just how thick these walls and doors actually were, they were at least 2 meters thick at times, and in the case of the doors there were quite evidently blast resistant underneath Jieke’s ornate fantasies.

Inside there was a series of various grotesquely elaborate statues in the image of the important Lazins. This meant all of the ones who were sovereign rulers and all the ones otherwise worthy of respect were all collected to surround the paths. They were typically all made from Jade stone, with their eyes being various types of precious stones to distinguish the various branches they were from. On the walls themselves dominated huge paintings in traditional Akai techniques, of what looked like to Housheng to be a depiction of the most hellish of all images. It seemed to depict the creation story of the Akai, one which featured the thirteen beings who truly were downright demonic in their appearance. Betrayal and rebirth seemed to be the main themes of the images, with it starting with the betrayal of the first Ditor and the trials he endured in order to be reborn on earth.

Regardless, Housheng had not time to stare as she swiftly strode up the glass and metal helical stair case. Qiang was swift in his ascent upwards. The walls here were tight and constricting, with triangular windows pointing upwards, each and every one coloured various shades of purple, burgundy and crimson forming a curious illumination. This led you eventually arise to the peak of the tower, where you were greeted with a circular study it seemed with a single vast semi-circular desk fitted there. In front of it was another man, huge and musculed in his nature and wearing a field-grey uniform which gave away the true identity of the figure there.

“Why it isn’t it Molxue Woerjin, what a pleasure,” Qiang spoke his voice being especially dry with his remarks as he approached the table. Molxue was a man who had quite the reputation in Akai, especially among military circles as Housheng knew. A man who was now the step-father of the Ditor through his marriage to his mother, a man whose cunning allowed him to form his own military intelligence bureau the Geluxu and a man whose reputation for cruelty seemed to allow many to respect his will and influence. His mask was that of a flayed man, the eyes that he possessed were a deep and violent shade of purple. Calm, cool and collected they were, yet they were almost predatory. They watched Qiang and then Housheng with an unnerving drive behind them.

"Your heavenly highness, Prince-Ditoral Qiang, it is fortunate that you have arrived on time, his perfection is awaiting," Molxue cooly replied as he shifted his hand to point towards the young Ditu. He was perched on the edge of a huge curved metal throne, one covered in ornate silk patterns and cushioned exceptionally well. It was almost skull like in its solid strength, with its interior folding onto one another in order to form the required cushioning. Upon this bizarre throne sat Hulang, leaning forwards with his hands steepled front of his mouth. Hulang for Housheng was quite the unnervingly unusual individual for he seemed oh so chillingly perfect. He was when he needed to be warm and friendly to those he wanted to be so, yet seemed quite simply stoic when not so. Was it that his face and body was so perfectly crafted that he seemed more like a work of Renaissance sculpture than a real human? He was talented in a surprisingly large number of fields and curiously well prepared for his new role. But perhaps it was his eyes which haunted her the most, those crimson, piercing and observant eyes felt like they were straight from Jieke's corpse. Yet there was overall a sense of melancholy to Hulang which Housheng could not precisely nail down, he seemed distant from nearly everyone.

"Thank you for coming uncle, we have some rather curious developments you see," Hulang's voice had changed it seemed, while it still possessed that low pitch and high pace, it now seemed to flow almost like silk. Calming almost: "It seems you wished to present to us some information about the rather intriguing developments in Latium did you not?"

"You would be correct, your perfection," Qiang said kowtowing along with his daughter before their sovereign. He arose surprisingly swiftly for a man of his decaying age, seeming retaining fitness despite his role as a general: "you see, nephew there has been seemingly an outburst of violence in Latium, not by the military but by the second heir of the now deceased Emperor Jason Augustus. You see Prince Michael has managed to secure the throne, as has declared himself as Caesar. This is also to the pretext of him describing his eldest brother - Prince Constantine and his family fleeing his grasp thanks to a Ghantish bastard… Leo." Housheng noted the Lazin Marshal's hesitance to call Leo a prince instead calling him by his first name only."

"Yes, I am quite aware of this, his rather colourful message came through this morning, along with our message expressing our condolences" Hulang replied almost completely deadpan. "What my question is to yourself, how are we to make the best out of this rather compromising situation?" Hulang's eyes seemed to shift towards Molxue for a second, studying him once or twice before returning back to Qiang.

"Michael is young, unwed and unlikely to receive support from the wider international community I suspect the Ghantish, Demphorians and possibly the Allamunnic might be inclined to align towards Constantine should he stake a claim which he most likely will. This is on top of this, we have the fact that both Vannois and quite a few other nations such as Selajtrazen maintain fairly close ties to House of Claudius. Furthermore should the regional powers such as Jedoria, New Edom, Rome getting involved we are ultimately facing quite the issue here."

"This situation seems to have a rather expansive web associated with it doesn't it? But whimsies in the centre but two competing spiders, fighting over this most valuable of webs," Hulang quietly remarked to himself as he contemplated. "Now, while I imagine much of the military is clambering out for me to use a more direct application of force, not only is that exceptionally crude it is also far too expensive for my tastes. I do not want a repeat of this March where we nearly lost our new found allies over an ally a continent away. Our direct conventional support would also likely dramatically legitimise any candidate we do chose due to our reputation. Hence why I ordered both you and Molxue here."

"Are you asking me to lead an asymmetric campaign in Latium," Qiang inquired his voice strangely softer now as he seemed rather surprised at such a notion.

"Yes, uncle. Not only are you one of our finest marshals, you are also one of the few I can actually trust with such a mission. Your army will be lead by your deputy, Marshal Zuolin Oato in your leave of absence. Instead your goal is to ensure the success of Prince Michael, through whatever means necessary." Hulang let the last part of that sentence longer almost, his eyes then came to focus on Housheng and then the most strange of things began to crawl across his usually stone cold face. "And maybe it could be incentivised for yourself also." He paused again, this time turning to face Marshal Molxue.

Qiang nodded his head as he listened, he seemed curious once more and began to inquire. "However I do hope you understand the limitations I will be facing here in Latium, I assume this why hence why You have arranged for the Geluxu to be assisting myself with this operation?"

"Why yes, that, I was advised, was prudent. Anything else you need, please ask," the Ditor agreed.

It was now Molxue who began to speak, once more, his gloved fish clenching as he did: "It's why I was told to give you direct command of a Tezhentuan company and some 'volunteers' for training purposes. And access to some of the other more indirect units."

"We also have had some communication from the Demphorians but I imagine it is unlikely to be of consequence I imagine," Hulang commented in a rather dismissing sort of way. "I have delegated it to Sanfu myself, he seems to be able to cooperate well with Northern foreigners."

"All of these things will be exceptionally useful, your perfection," Qiang concluded as he bowed his head. "May I make my preparations in order to complete my commands?"

"You may so," Hulang rather calmly relied before picking up one of the few books on the table. It seemed to be written in Palace Akai, and looked to be of a reasonable size. I wonder what that book is Housheng wondered as she descended the stairs with her father who seemed different somehow. Underneath that frown face of his, once you peeled away the scars and the flesh which covered him and looked deep into those maroon eyes, there was something different - a pride seemed ignited deep inside of him. One which seemed to be poised to become an inferno.

---

Co-written with Latin.

Latium was certainly a place unusual for the four Lazins, it was a land in the image of both Hellas and Rome and it certainly showed. Housheng sat outside in controlled silence behind her towering father, a man who upon this occasion decided to wear an elaborate great army overcoat of which surrounded his muscled bulk. A cape which fell down to his knees, dangled from his back, and like the rest of the uniform it was a mixture of silver and black-grey. It was clearly the design of for an Akai marshal, something further exemplified by the medals present upon the old-warrior's chest. There was also his unique sigil, a collection of golden wings carrying the Lazin eye a reference to the Archangels of Dawei Christianity it felt like. This combined on top his various regal chains, it gave the image of a man authoritarian and domineering in his appearance. His mask however, one which covered his entire face when worn. Housheng found it awfully simple in comparison to the others, being oddly utilitarian and almost traditional in its carbon black metallic appearance. Qiang was a man of war through and through; he possessed a firm foreboding face whose stern essence was embodied with his harsh stare. He himself while smaller than his elder brothers still stood at six foot five, and seemed to be white not in his prime physically better than most for sure. Yet there was the feeling of gentlemanliness which floated around Qiang despite the brutish strength he possessed. His stern look, clearful sense of dress and his speech so particular felt so different to what was to be expected from a man of his physicality.

The three daughters however all kept looks especially different to one another, something which Qiang thought of as being rather amusing. Princess Housheng wore quite the simple black-grey mandarin collared nehru jacket which was traditionally issued to the young Akai squires who serve their lords. Aside from her ranks which were placed on her shoulders and silver buttons, there was only one thing to distinguish this piece of uniform which was a pair of golden wings carrying an eye, a single button on her collar. Housheng herself kept her silver hair tied up in a bun at the back of her head, tilting to the floor when resting, while she decided to wear some make up not excessively to ensure a clean appearance. She herself possessed a muscled athletic body, her figure being decisively better hidden thanks to her clothing allowed her to avoid much scrutiny for this particular issue of dress, something which could not be said of her sisters vain as they were. She carried her own mask, in the image of her fathers yet it was softer and only a half-mask one which covered the upper head, and was covered in diamonds across it.

Shijin decided to indulge on a dress which Housheng felt was ripped right outside her cousin’s Lilisi’s most fashionable wardrobe. It was a curious mixture of Akai dress and almost renaissance luxury. A combination of blacks, rose reds and whites flowed into a series of floral patterns especially focusing on series of chrysanthemums and dragons which traversed across her well-endowed bosom. She evidently is dressed to impress it seems, Housheng thought as she studied her sister’s bizarre clothing. She let her radiantly silver hair flow, to her shoulders and curled ever so slightly. The dress hugged her voluptuous flesh exceptionally tightly around her upper torso, with golden strings of silk thread, which avoided an opening in the chest area to find a black collar which wrapped around her neck. On this collar was a button almost identical to Housheng’s although it was tilted in such a manner that it seemed to be at a different angle now vertical. It was all focusing on the innate contrast with her face, ever pale and yet ethereally beautiful. Her lush lips were crimson, tight and sharp as was her confident smile which went well with her sharp flaming red eyes. Despite this, she wore underneath something which to a foreigner must’ve looked like a combination of the most elaborate from of stockings across her arms and legs in accordance with Akai’s bizarre traditions. She was a highly desired individual in Akai, her hand in marriage being at least chased by a few of her cousins, Clans Woerjin, Baermali and according to some rumours the Ditor himself. Housheng personally doubted the last one, given her bizarre relatives quite unusual behaviour she suspected Hulang had little interest in any women for that matter. This being said, her beauty was well known in Akai, something which Housheng would have rather not been the case; she worried for her sister and her behaviour as it became increasingly questionable in nature. Her mask was like Housheng’s curiously similar to one another aside from the fact that she had rubies instead planted.

Aorta on the other hand was dressed in traditional robes, a dark shade of black and most ancient of the designs. It seemed to be the bastard offspring of the Diyi’s worn by the Dihei and Dibai, combined with the proper dress of a princess of her rank, the Daxiushans. Hers had white doves, embroiled with incredible detail into it their eyes even the same shade of burgundy as her own. This was combined with a lighter robe which was possessed with patterns even more elaborate and detailed than Shijin’s somehow. It was covered in various Christian religious figures which dominated the furiously white and red robe which covered herself. Seraphim imagery covered her robes and six wings went across it. Aorta’s face was as astute and stern as her imperialist father - almost unflinching in its lack of emotion at times. Her silver hair and ghostly pale skin gave her the most otherworldly feel out of them all, something which Housheng only really found comparable to the disturbingly angelic Hulang. She found him increasing detached without Lilisi and his other contacts. They all sat just waiting.

The waiting area outside of Michael’s office was filled with busy workers and armed men alike. Ever since the day his father passed, the Palace of Augustus had been heavily guarded by members of the Scholae Palatinae and an increasing number of new recruits. Stationed outside of the office door, however, were two members of the Emperor’s new Manipulus Umbra. They followed Michael everywhere he went with their presence becoming a near permanent fixture in the Palace.

The two Manipuli stationed at his door were sporting their white dress uniforms, white gloves, both armed with sidearms, swords, and possibly whatever other weapons were hidden in their garb. These two flanking the doors had a flat expression on their face, offering no changes as anyone walked by them.

Nice uniforms Housheng noted as her father’s eyes darted towards the guards, studying them both with great suspicion as they walked towards him. Now I wonder if the rumours were true that there was a coup here.

A phone at the secretary's desk rang, she answered and then set the phone back down as quickly as she first picked it up. “His Majesty is ready for you, Your Highness,” the secretary said to Qiang and by extension to his daughters.

“Your Heavenly Highness,” Qiang corrected in carefully articulated Latin, his tone of voice completely deadpan and unamused in its nature. Qiang always possessed his low and forceful voice which somehow managed to attain “And thank you,” he said as he glared towards the men and then his daughters. “Get up and behave, I shall have no embarrassments from my own kin here. Not like Midsummer,” he noted recalling on those unfortunate days in Ghant nearly a year ago.

The girls nodded, and formed a wave of sorts behind Qiang who walked forwards in a decidedly forceful manner, carrying himself especially high and holding his helmet like mask at his side. Housheng grinned as she looked on her father, amused at his correction. “Let’s just hope he isn’t like that with Michael,” she whispered to Shijin who returned her with a look of displeasure.

At the same time, the two Manipuli stationed at the Emperor’s door created a wider path to the entrance, with the guard to the left reaching over himself to swing open the door for Michael’s guests.

Once the door opened, it revealed a much simpler office than one would have expected the Emperor of the Latins to occupy. There was a small bookshelf just below the windows at the back of the room, with a bust of Michael’s grandfather and former Consul Sebastián Verruscosi situated atop, and on the same side as a door leading to another room. Upon walking in, one would find the desk just to the left with the Emperor seated behind it and four chairs laid out on the opposite side of him for his guests.

Qiang marched into the room, his fist close at hand and his stern face still solid as he came to observe study it and his daughters. Qiang bowed his head first, in the manner of Akai royalty while the girls curtseyed politely also towards Michael. Housheng watched Shijin look on with a strange look of disappointment at the place, finding it awfully plain it seemed. What a spoiled brat, Housheng thought she looked upon her more arrogant sister, while Aorta quietly performed her duty. “Your Imperial Highness, it is a pleasure to have you host us today although we wish it could have been done on better circumstances of course. We hope your father may rest easy, knowing that the kingdom is in your hands,” Prince Qiang introduced himself, his tone bare and seemingly grim in its predisposition despite the aristocratic politeness he attempted.

“Majesty,” Michael corrected him with a smile as he stood from behind his desk. “I understand how difficult languages can be to a non-native speaker. Please have a seat, may I offer you anything. Food, drink?” He extended his right arm out to offer seats for his guests. Michael appeared almost cheerful in his demeanor, matching his lightly colored tan suit.

“Why thank you, if I could have some white tea with some shortbread that would be most fine,” Qiang did not smile as he took a seat, instead nodding his head and doing so and gesturing to his children. He seemed almost annoyed at himself that he got it wrong God, could he not crack a smile for once thought Housheng as they took seats. She and Shijin did smile slightly, trying to get occasional subtle glimpses of the new Autokrator. Then suddenly Qiang turned his head and asked his princesses: “Would you like anything?”

“Some well prepared tea would do me nicely,” Shijin quickly spoke, her voice while slightly accented almost dripping with sophisticated wealth. “I imagine my other sisters would like so too?”

“Of course,” Housheng rather quietly replied, her eyes glancing at displeasure at Shijin’s perfect confidence. Aorta on the other hand just simply nodded as she would and remained quietly observing.

On his desk were few items, a handful of books - one authored by each of his grandfathers respectively, and atop one was a golden laurel wreath crown. “Apologies if you feel a bit cramped in here. We’re still working on the handover to my offices. But thank you, we heard from your nation’s ambassador very quickly and my sister and I appreciate all the kind words and prayers everyone has offered up.”

He seems awfully happy Housheng thought as he observed the Caesar with a certain pleasure abound with suspicion. “We received your message to the international community rather immediately,” Qiang stated: “It intrigued the Ditor and my associates for sure. We do hope that your family can safely be recovered and that Gentry bastard be brought to justice before he becomes more than just an exile.” Housheng found it hard to see whether Qiang was being truthful with his words, he typically was able to maintain something along these lines anyways. “I assume your…”

“You do seem to possess a quite the large collection of tomes here,” Aorta interrupted her father finally coming out of her disconnected state of being. This was met with a stare unrelenting forceful in its nature, the maroon eyes of Qiang looking ever displeased. This did not last for long it seemed after Aorta returned back to her usual state.

Qiang continued, after completing taking a sip of his tea as he did. “Anyways, before I was so callously interrupted, I assume you are at least acquainted with my family and its history are you not? In particular my half-brother and our history with House Gentry?”

“I hope so too. The bastard has been a stain on our family for far too long and now he runs off with my own brothers and sisters as a prize for the highest bidder...I suspect. Lord Commander Mavrozomes of the Scholae Palatinae is working tirelessly to ensure he’s captured before he’s able to leave the country, and I have the utmost faith in his ability to do so,” Michael said, but found it amusing when Aorta spoke, even more so at Qiang’s response. “I’ve been briefed on a few things regarding your two families, so we needn’t waste time covering that. Unless of course that is the reason for this meeting.”

“Good,” Qiang bluntly put it. “While I’d recommend you will be swifter and take preparations of a more military manner if that bastard tries to corrupt your brother into claiming the throne. In this instance is better because the autokrator, with little reluctance, takes the opportunity of the rebellion to punish the delinquents, to clear out the suspects, and to strengthen himself in the weakest places. I do assume the principle is not imprudent is it not?” He himself took another sip of tea: “Apologies for that tangent of mine. And while a part of my family's history with House Gentry does play a part, I myself do have desire to help you in the future if needed.” He paused for a second to let Michael respond, perhaps curious to what he’d make of it.

“He cannot claim what is already occupied. Not that I need them, but the courts have already named me the rightful successor. My brother couldn’t even dream to match my numbers. Any attempt would be futile, with or without the bastard corrupting his mind,” Michael seemed to grow a bit unnerved at the thought of another claimant, nearly refusing to acknowledge the likelihood of it. “However, my Latium is open to any and all friends...even those my predecessors may have spat at before.”

“1972 of course,” Housheng commented in a cautious manner - her father almost pridefully studying her - recalling the military history that she had been studying. “An avoidable tragedy for those involved but regardless, there is only one man here was even alive then,” she gestured towards Qiang. Let’s hope that was not irrelevant…

Qiang took another sip of his tea, his eyes seemingly exhausted from some bizarre actions. “Thank you for being most reasonable with your approach here. Have you ensured the loyalty of the Praetorians? The military perhaps? Should they believe you illegitimate, which unfortunately may be the case your imperial majesty, they could be an especially unpleasant force to deal with,” he noted in a foreboding tone. “A military must be loyal, were it not to be the case they could present a hell for any of their previous rulers. My brother knew that well. I am also guessing you have heard of the Guizitong? The incident of 1984?”

“The Praetorians have been disbanded by my own Edict, Your Highness. They shan’t be causing trouble for anyone when they are enemies of all Latium,” Michael smirked, finding himself clever. “I’ve met with members of the military already, of course I can’t guarantee all will accept the new reality, but there are ways of ensuring cooperation at the very least...though I can’t go into details.”

“How prudent of you,” Qiang commented. “I can understand those means, although my brother learned the bad the way the consequences of being too merciful with regards to those who wield armed forces,” Qiang replied voicing his thoughts on the issue. “I just do not wish to see a young ruler like yourself go through such turmoil. I also wanted to ask you…”

Meanwhile, a massive figure emerged from the door at the far end of the room. He was wearing the same white uniform as the two guards stationed just outside the main entrance of the office. The way he walked was odd, in a lumbering type of way, and his face was covered in scars and various other wounds or blemishes. Though he did nothing upon entering except stand in the same corner he entered.

Qiang moved around to study the other giant present in the room, newly present. He seemed paranoid and rather tense as he usually was then matters like these presented themselves. Who the fuck is that? The Steel Princess thought to herself. While the Lazins seemed collectively awfully mistrustful of this new guard, it was Shijin “May I ask before we continue our conversation, who is this new guard. He seems to have a rather interesting history does he not?”

“Who, Sir Ajax over there?” Michael said with a hint of laughter. “Don’t let his appearance frighten you, he’s really rather harmless, isn’t that right?” the guard nodded. “Just pretend he’s not here. Now, what was it you wished to ask of me, your Highness?”

Qiang seemed to find that explanation rather incredulous: “Now I wanted to ask you two things actually,: firstly, would you allow me to help assist you with your reign to help build a bridge over the abyss of our former history by allowing me to serve in your court? I will pledge to you the support of some of Akai’s finest and most skillful operators.” He took another sip of tea: “Secondly, if the slight impossibility of rebellion… no treachery among the military what defence would you have other than your current forces?” Qiang posed this question almost like a tutor would to a student, his hand gesturing in an angular manner. Housheng deeply enjoyed watching Shijin squirm in the presence of the guard, almost visibly disturbed by his presence.

“I very well don’t know what help you’d be to me if I don’t know you. We’ve only just met. As for the matter involving my military, well those matters are classified. A man of your station and rank, I’m sure you understand I can’t simply divulge such information at such a time,” Michael continued to think rather highly of himself, and it showed. “If you’d like to stay at court for some time, I would be more than happy to permit you and your daughters to stay as my personal guests. Should we learn to come to an understanding of one another, then I may answer your questions.”

“Understood,” Qiang spoke almost unconvinced of what was spoken to him. “Consider it advice and prudency from someone, who does not wish for something to go wrong.”

Sir Ajax remained brooding in the corner, though if one hadn’t seen him enter the room he was so still that you might have forgotten he was even there. “I’m sorry,” Michael directed to Shijin. “Is he making you nervous? It’s alright, you can say he is. Admittedly, it’s why he’s the head of my security detail.”

“Yes...” slowly replied Shijin, her eyes uncomfortable as they were. “There’s only one Riyeskonsu who looks anything remotely like that and he’s a terrifying individual. Currently guarding my cousin Princess Ditoral Lilisi in her service at the moment as he has always done,” she continued. “We decided to travel with little guard today mostly because we believed that security here would be more than adequate.”

“Well there’s no need to fear Sir Ajax, I promise you that,” Michael smiled at Shijin. “You and your family are in my home and under my protection. That means he’s here for you as much as he is for me.”

“Ultimately though, my main concern is the Ghantish and their equally inbred, intermarrying scum deciding to try and prop up, Constantine should he decide to rebel. It could spell disaster if they decided to get involved, as my foolish predecessors learned so many years ago,” Qiang spoke somberly now, almost disappointed.

“I’m no fan of the Ghantish myself, but I suspect Nathan won’t be causing me any trouble,” Michael smirked, thinking he had the ultimate trump card on the Ghantish emperor.

“While you are right in that manwhore is rather pathetic; he is rather unstable as is their government and the aristocracy’s influence over his actions whether intentional or not,” Qiang continued creating the case he had for the threats Michael faced. They threatened war over Rietumimark last March and to the detriment where we would have been forced to fire on their vessels. Furthermore we offered peace and they still pushed for war, it was a miracle that it didn’t escalate into one to be honest.”

“The only difference being that his sister Theodora is under my protection. Whatever happened between your two governments last March will not occur this time. That I can promise,” Michael smirked again, taking a harder glance at Shijin. “Now, how many rooms shall I have prepared for you and your lovely daughters, Your Highness...I’m sorry, if you would be so kind to honor me by guests at court that is.”

“Four,” he bluntly replied, taking a slight break to finish his tea.“Make sure mine is secure and well protected, with considerable space.” Qiang put down his teacup before nodding. He arose from his seat swiftly towering over nearly all apart from Sir Ajax. He was still unsmiling and seemed amused himself. “Your Heavenly Highness,” he corrected echoing Michael’s initial correction Housheng suspected, not that she or any of the princess were pleased with it. He left like he entered, marching outwards with a sense of determination as he did.

Housheng turned her head to look at Shijin, she was blushing it seemed now more comfortable. The cadet princess grinned as she watched her reactions: “I apologise about my father’s demeanor, he is like iron. Hard and unyielding as men of war often are. You on the other hand are better…” she spoke in her silky voice being all the more coquettish as she did; a smirk sliding across her mouth. “You were quite the model gentleman.” She seemed to relax now, resting her head in her left hand as she leaned backwards.

“And that’s how an Emperor should act, is it not?” Michael grinned as he studied Shijin. “Your father means well I’m sure, though he’ll need to lighten up a tad if he’s to stay at court. We need smiles, and the three of you have beautiful smiles. Court is sure to be brighter with your presence.”

“What flattering words,” Shijin replied with an almost coy smile. She leaned inwards towards Michael, and looked at her tea. [i]Cold as she is[i] Housheng thought as she watched her drink from it cautiously. “Anyways, we are mere candles in comparison to your sunlight. You have potential to blind us all with your radiant charm.” While Housheng noticed Shijin’s rather unsubtle comments, she did have to admit that Michael seemed rather intriguing to herself yet something felt off about him.

“Let’s just say this it the closest thing he would get to considering relaxation. Dealing with both Jieke, and then latter Yanfeng left him rather bitter; ontop of military politics” Housheng explained sadly reflecting on their families’ poor history.

With this Aorta seemed strangely distant, steepling her hands as she leaned backwards: “An Emperor must act prudently while all men should act like gentlemen,” she commented again before remaining as quiet as she usually was.

Michael seemed rather disinterested in the talk of their father and family, though still wore as smile to feign interest. And then there was Aorta’s comment; that didn’t please him. “Do ladies so openly declare what makes a ruler in Akai?” He paused quicky before smirking again and continuing. “Perhaps you would like to dine with me tonight, Princess Shijin. Of course I’d like to spend time with you as well,” he said to the other girls, “as I’d like to come to know all who stay in my court.”

As Housheng smiled, but felt something curiously uncomfortable in her stomach yet was unsure what it was.

“They are to be advisors, usually,” Aorta quickly explained, seemingly noting the change in tone. “But alas, it is more a test of their master’s wisdom to work out which one actually is the wisest and which ones are flattering for influence. Regardless, if the tradition is not the case in Latium I will not repeat it.”

“Anyways, let’s not dwell on that shall we,” Shijin seemed rather annoyed at her sister to her left, she was almost uncomfortable at her comments. “I would love to take up such an offer, you do seem like you’d made interesting company. What meals would they serve?”

The Latin Emperor pushed the sleeve of his suit jacket up to look down at his watch. He hardly listened to what Aorta was saying as again it seemed of little interest to him. “Wonderful, I’ll see to it that it’s added to my schedule. And why, I can have them cook up anything your heart desires,” he took a quick look at her chest before finding her eyes. “You’ll find that I am most generous and sharing. But if you’ll excuse you, there are pressing matters that I must attend to. Apologies for being curt,” he smiled at all three girls before excusing himself from the room, with the hulking Sir Ajax following him out of the room.

There was a quiet silence as the two girls that remained sipped their tea, both not wanting to disturb the silence. Yet it was the more the near mute Aorta who broke it, her words strangely tranquil: “He has much to learn, I feel...”

[The Demphorian Kingdoms]

Joint Emergency Session
Nàiseanta Coithional na Démpharás
Monday, 19 September 2016

"Ladies and gentlemen, the Chair now recognized the honorable Representative of South Walldon of the Province of Ethdromar, and Right Honourable Prime Minister, Mr. Andrew Wilson."

The Prime Minister stood up in front of the joint session of the National Assembly, the first emergency session called since the foundation of the semi-presidential system. His job as the lone representative of His Majesty's Government in the National Assembly was to push through the President's proposal for authorization of military force in Latium. Already, the National-Labour Party had mobilized it's anti-war resistance in the House of Representatives, where they had derailed the debate for military authorization for days. The Senate had not even opened discussion, and thus Wilson, under pressure from the President, forced the Joint Session.

He here rose and stood in front of the House of Representatives and Senate assembled, pushing for a war that some even within his own Party were not keen to support. Nonetheless, he stood in front of the Assembly, determined to give the push forward to rush to the defense of not only a rightful heir to the throne of Latium in danger, but to rush to the defense of a pro-Demphorian government in Acheron, which, if Michael was successful, could not be guaranteed.

"Members of this Assembly," he began. "Last week, His Majesty's Government made it's final and legitimate attempt towards securing a peace not only for this country, but to preserve the peace of Acheron. Today events move so rapidly that it is exceedingly difficult to state with technical accuracy the actual state of affairs, but it is clear that the peace of Latium cannot be preserved. Constantine and Michael, at any rate, have declared conflict upon each other."

The House murmured and some jeers of disapproval for the conflict rose from the chamber, but Wilson persevered. "Before I proceed to state the position of His Majesty's Government, I would like to clear the ground so that, before I come to state to our Assembly what the policy of this nation shall be in the wake of recent events, the legislature may know exactly under what obligations the government is, or the House can be said to be, in coming to a decision on the matter."

"In the present crisis, it has not been possible to secure a ceasefire in Latium between Emperor Constantine's forces and those of his brother. There has been no time, and while this government has done everything in it's power to avoid intervention in the Latin country, at any rate to the great risk of peace, and, as we now know, the result of that is that the policy of peace as far as the powers that be generally are concerned is in danger. The government needs this Assembly to approach the current crisis in unity, in which we are now from the point of view of Demphorian interests, honour and obligations, free from all passion as to why peace has not yet been preserved..."

"Breugaire!" cried out a National-Labour representative, "Thu breugaire! A ghlaoic air do chasan!"

The Assembly descended into a minor chaos, with Representatives yelling at each other while the Senators, whom had not been elected to such a chaotic chamber, attempted to understand the dynamic of the House. The Chair slammed the gavel against the podium several times as the Prime Minister regained his composure. After several minutes, the House was returned to order, and the eyes were upon him again.

"The Demphorian fleet is now in the Tempesta, now on it's way to the northern and western coasts of Latium. The Latin fleet being concentrated on the present chaos, the situation is very different from what it used to be, because the friendship which has grown up between the two countries has given them a sense of security that there was nothing to be feared from us. My own feeling is that if a foreign fleet, engaged in a conflict which Latium had not sought, and in which she had not been the aggressor, came south up the Tempesta and bombarded and battered the undefended coasts of Latium, we could not stand aside..."

The Assembly now responded with cheers of approval, agreeing with the Prime Minister on all accords of his last point.

"... and see this going on practically within sight of our eyes, with our arms folded, looking on dispassionately, doing nothing. I believe that would be the feeling of this country. There are times when one feels that if these circumstances actually did arise, it would be a feeling which would spread with irresistible force throughout the land. But I also want to look at the matter without sentiment, and from the point of view of Demphorian interests, and it is on that that I am going to base and justify what I am presently going to say to the Assembly."

"If we say nothing at this moment, what is Latium to do with her fleet? If she leaves it in port, with no statement from us as to what we will do, she leaves her coasts absolutely undefended, at the mercy of a enemy fleet coming down the Channel to do as it pleases in a war which is a war of life and death between them. If we say nothing, it may be that the rightful Latin government is destroyed."

Again, cheers erupted from the chamber. Wilson, now feeling confident and feeling the command of the chamber before him, pushed through to the end of his speech.

"I have now put the vital facts before the respective chambers, and if, as seems not improbable, we are forced, and rapidly forced, to take our stand upon those issues, then I believe, when the country realizes what is at stake, what the real issues are, the magnitude of the impending dangers in Latium, which I have endeavored to describe to this Assembly, we shall be supported throughout, not only by the National Assembly, but by the determination, the resolution, the courage, and the endurance of the whole country."

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Official Diplomatic Communiqué of Government of the the Kingdom of Demphor, Élbannin and Duís
Oifigeil Dioplòmasach Fios-Oifigeil nà Riaghaltais nà Rìoghachd nà Démpharás, Élbaniøs & Duís

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From: The Right Honourable Sylvester Dermot, Secretary of State and Foreign Affairs for the Kingdom of Demphor, Élbannin and Duís
To: The Right Honourable Michael Augustus, Prince of the Latins

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Presented to the international community.

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Dear Sir,

Owing to the summary rejection by the Government of Prince Michael of the request made by His Majesty’s Government for assurances that the abdication of Michael from the throne of the Latins would be respected, His Majesty’s Ambassador in Castellum ab Alba has received his passport, and His Majesty’s Government has declared to the illegitimate government that it shall take all necessary steps to securing the transition to the legitimate government in Latium, under the authority vested in the President with the approval of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

From the undersigned,

Sylvester Dermot
Rùnaire na Stàite agus Dàimh-Coimheach
Rìoghachd nà Démpharás, Élbaniøs & Duís
14 September 2016

[Jedoria]

Approaching the Latin-Noviteran Strait

The Furious Redemption cut through the waves of the northern Tempesta like a knife, it's steel gray bow slicing through the ocean while the Henry VI class destroyer sailed north. As the class name would imply, the Henry VI was not a native Jedorian design, rather it was a foreign production purchased and refined to suit the Confederation's needs at sea. There was a time when the Confederate Navy had existed solely for the purpose of patrolling the waters between Peregrino and Jedoria, but that had changed. Now ships like the Furious Redemption, or it's sister ship the Tranquil Composure led the fleet, bristling with weapons and armaments. The days of patrolling the Gulf were over; now the Confederate High Seas Fleet existed for the purpose of annihilating opposing naval vessels and formations, and projecting power to whatever corner of the region it was needed. Four carriers, eleven amphibious ships, sixteen cruisers, thirty destroyers, fifty two frigates, thirty six corvettes, and forty seven submarines now patrolled the waters under the control of the Confederation.

By necessity, their jurisdiction also encompassed the security of Jedoria's trade routes, overseas allies, and strategic interests. The five ship task force that were now passing around Novitera's most northern peninsula was evident of that. Somewhere to the north-west was Callaban, and beyond that the Allamunnic States. Captain Giurescu, ship master of the Furious Redemption, was one of the few members of the task force that could say he had visited the Federation. “Different place, that's for sure. People tend to keep to themselves a bit more. Damn good football though.” He told his XO, who simply nodded and stared out into the vast expanse of ocean that surrounded the vessel. Even when they were relatively close to the Noviteran coast, the waters of the Tempesta seemed to extend in all directions infinitely. Giurescu had read as a child and learned that water covered 70% of the world's surface, and standing on the bridge of his ship it was hard to argue with that.

Even on a seemingly small ship compared to the vastness of the open water, the Furious Redemption was not sailing blind. With no need for stealth or evasion the ship was free to openly make use of it's arsenal of advanced sensor arrays, radar, sonar, and other electro-optical equipment designed to detect and track other ships, aircraft, submarines and missiles. Together the destroyer was linked up with the other four Jedorian vessels, whom were currently sailing in a loose formation a few dozen kilometers apart from one another. Although not visible to the naked eye, the long range sensors aboard each ship allowed them to communicate as though they were side by side, making use of their ComStar uplink to verify they were all maintaining the same course and staying together.

As this was not really a designated military operation there was no real operational commander, rather control of the task force fell to the ad-hod committee composed of each of the ship's commanding officers. Despite that organization Giurescu had found the other commanders had more or less just followed his ideas, as he was the most senior of them all in age and years of service. Thus far in the mission he hadn't seen any reason to deviate from orders. He had his XO bring him the latest reports on the situation in Latium as well as updated rosters of the ships that were expected to pass through the trait, at least the ones that were under the Jedorian or allied flag. As it turned out, things had changed.


Back in the Confederation itself, news had broken of the intentions of the Demphorian Kingdoms to resort to force to bring about the abdication of the self-proclaimed Emperor Michael. He had been treading on thin ice before, but now the would-be Latin leader was facing direct opposition to his throne in the form of a foreign nation-state, one that was in fact allied to the Empire and now apparently obligated to intervene. In Strana Mechty, Foreign Minister Rotaru met with Duke Zaharia and concluded that supporting Michael, unlikely as it already was, now was firmly out of the question. Supporting the younger brother would now require armed opposition against Demphor, a state the Confederation had no quarrel with and no reason to start one with the Kingdoms. Now the gears of the Confederate diplomatic corps began switching; with Michael now facing direct opposition from another country and no known support aside from his domestic allies, the opportunity was now one that favored hopping onto the bandwagon, so to speak.

While outright intervention had not been agreed upon as of yet, it was now firmly decided whom the Confederation would support, would it come to that.

To: The Right Honourable Sylvester Dermot, Secretary of State and Foreign Affairs for the Kingdom of Demphor, Élbannin and Duís
CC: Prince Constantine XX
From: Foreign Minister Dragomir Rotaru
Encryption: Highest
Subject: Events in Latium

Dear Secretary,

I have received from your office this public address concerning actions to be undertaken by the Demphorian Kingdoms in response to the situation unfolding in Latium. The Confederation has for some time now monitored the Empire following the death of Emperor Augustus, and we have reached a conclusion: all evidence indicates Prince Michael of the Latins was indeed fully or partially responsible for the death of the Emperor, as a means to secure the Latin throne and seize control of the Empire. This action, barbaric in nature and ill-fitting of a modern state like the Empire, can hardly be tolerated by the civilized world, and it is comfort to know that the Demphorian Kingdoms share our disgust as the actions of the would-be Emperor Michael.

We gave also come to understand that the Kingdoms intent to intervene fully in this brewing succession crisis in support of Prince Constantine XX, whom we agree is the rightful heir to the throne of the Empire. While the Confederation is not currently aligned with either faction, it is the intention of my government to acknowledge the legitimacy of Constantine and join in your call for the abdication of Michael from the throne.

Should he refuse, the Confederation would be willing to offer support for Demphorian efforts in backing up Constantine and his ascension to the throne. If this would be acceptable to your government, please let us know so we may begin further cooperation towards restoring rightful rule to the Latin Empire.

Kind Regards,
Dragomir Rotaru, Foreign Minister of the Jedorian Confederation

[Lacus Magni]

To: Prince Constantine XX, Prince Michael of Latium
From: Foreign Minister Dragomir Rotaru
Subject: Situation in Latium
Encryption: High

Dear sirs,

Given recent events unfolding within the Latin Empire, I'm sure you can understand the concern an outside observer feels for the cause of peace. Recent events in the Empire are troubling to say the least, but for now I will refrain from commenting on greater detail, as that is not the intention of this letter.

While both of you have maintained your desire towards peace, (a claim I trust and have informed my colleagues of), you must understand the concern the Confederation has regarding the safety of our allies and trade partners in Acheron. While your intentions are not questioned, history tells us that caution is virtue that should not be ignored. Therefore, it is my intention to inform both of you of the actions taken by the Confederation with regards to recent events.

Firstly, several naval vessels of the Confederate Navy are to be deployed to waters in and around the Noviteran-Latin strait. The mission of these vessels is to safeguard and secure the shipping and commercial interests of the Confederation, an action that will hopefully prove unnecessary, but I hope you will forgive our caution. In the interest of transparency I have informed you of this development in to avoid any potential surprise or confrontation that may arise from this action.

I hope and pray that a peaceful solution to this conflict be achieved, and offer the services of my government as an intermediary. Otherwise, I can only hope that innocent lives are not taken in this crisis of succession.

Kind Regards,
Dragomir Rotaru, Foreign Minister of the Jedorian Confederation

To: The Right Honourable Sylvester Dermot, Secretary of State and Foreign Affairs for the Kingdom of Demphor, Élbannin and Duís
CC: Prince Constantine XX
From: Foreign Minister Dragomir Rotaru
Encryption: Highest
Subject: Events in Latium

Dear Secretary,

I have received from your office this public address concerning actions to be undertaken by the Demphorian Kingdoms in response to the situation unfolding in Latium. The Confederation has for some time now monitored the Empire following the death of Emperor Augustus, and we have reached a conclusion: all evidence indicates Prince Michael of the Latins was indeed fully or partially responsible for the death of the Emperor, as a means to secure the Latin throne and seize control of the Empire. This action, barbaric in nature and ill-fitting of a modern state like the Empire, can hardly be tolerated by the civilized world, and it is comfort to know that the Demphorian Kingdoms share our disgust as the actions of the would-be Emperor Michael.

We gave also come to understand that the Kingdoms intent to intervene fully in this brewing succession crisis in support of Prince Constantine XX, whom we agree is the rightful heir to the throne of the Empire. While the Confederation is not currently aligned with either faction, it is the intention of my government to acknowledge the legitimacy of Constantine and join in your call for the abdication of Michael from the throne.

Should he refuse, the Confederation would be willing to offer support for Demphorian efforts in backing up Constantine and his ascension to the throne. If this would be acceptable to your government, please let us know so we may begin further cooperation towards restoring rightful rule to the Latin Empire.

Kind Regards,
Dragomir Rotaru, Foreign Minister of the Jedorian Confederation

To: Foreign Minister Dragomir Rotaru
From: The Imperial Offices of His Majesty The Emperor of the Latins - Constantine
Subject: Re: Events in Latium
Encryption: Highest

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Minister Rotaru,

As per your most recent communications with The Emperor's Offices, we would first like to thank you for the constant availability and communication. Peace is of course the number one concern of His Majesty Constantine, however, Prince Michael - throughout his occupation of Castellum - has made no effort to respond to our attempts at communications. The Emperor thanks you for the recognition of his truthful claim to the throne, and offers you to recall the Confederation's Ambassador from Castellum, as he can make no assurances of their safety at this time. Until such a time that Castellum is again secure, we offer a temporary home to your Ambassador and staff in Adrianople, which His Majesty takes as his Imperial Seat. It is our hope that Ambassador Manole visit His Majesty at a time of his nearest convenience, should continue to hold his current position with your Embassy in Adrianople.

Sincerely,
Thomas Peltrasius
Chamberlin of His Majesty's Imperial Offices

To: His Imperial Majesty Michael VIII, Emperor of the Latins
From: His Royal Majesty King Elijah IV of the Allied States of New Edom
Subject: Condolences
Encryption: Moderate

---

Your Majesty

I was sorry to hear of the death of His Imperial Majesty the Emperor Jason. I hope that the tragic circumstances of his death are made clear to you and your family. In the meantime, on behalf of Queen Mara and myself, I can only give my sincerest prayers for your family in this time of grief, and hope and pray to Almighty God that you will receive, by His good grace, the will, strength, courage and wisdom to rule your people well. If there is anything that I can do to ease your passage into the mighty concerns of head of state, please do not hesitate to ask.

I have the honour to be
Elijah IV
King of the Allied States of New Edom

To: His Royal Majesty King Elijah IV of the Allied States of New Edom
From: His Majesty Michael VIII, True Emperor of the Latins
Subject: Re: Condolences
Encryption: Highest

---

Your Majesty,

My family and I thank you for your prayers, they mean the world to us in such a trying time. As I'm sure you have seen in the press, my dearest brother Constantine means to question my legitimate rule of Latium. As a fellow Sovereign, I'm sure you can also sympathize with just how worrisome that can be, and all the problems that can lead to. It is clear to me that the Demphorians intend to support him and perhaps even place him on the throne in my place as a likely puppet. Should you consent, I would hope our offices can arrange a time for your ambassador to speak with me at the Palace of Augustus.

God Bless,
Michael VIII
True Emperor of the Latins

[Republica De Gran Chaco]

To: United Federation Department of State, Executor Eric Douglas
From: The Office of the Prime Minister
Subject: Protecting Trade in the Straits
Encryption: Highest

---

Executor Douglas,

As you are no doubt aware, the succession dispute in Latium seems to be escalating to the point of conflict. With the region on edge we believe that there may be the addition of forces from other nations entering the area. This poses both the threat of direct and indirect impairment of trade between CTO partners particularly Tericio which lies so near to Latium. We fear that a spillover of the conflict into the straits or the possibility of any blockade or inspections could be crippling to the free flow of goods.

While this has not happened yet, we believe it to be wise to have forces ready to react to any contingency. We have been in contact with the Jedorian government who feels the same as we do. While we do not know Novitera’s exact policy regarding this specific issue at the moment, we do know of Novitera’s commitment to free trade.

I am asking for permission to send a military contingent to Novitera for rapid reaction purposes to assist in our commitment to protect the interests of Chaco and the Cornelian Trade Organization. The force would not be particularly large, a brigade of Marines and Chaco Light Infantry, their organic air assets and squadron of F-15E’s. We would suggest that the force be sent under the guise of a joint military exercise, that way it would not be strange to have our men acclimatizing to the area and conducting training.

We will await your reply. As ever Gran Chaco has the highest respect for the Novitera Federation.

Luis Trujillo,
Prime Minister, Republica de Gran Chaco

Xeina Ccallo
Yanque, Chaco

There just wasn’t enough information at the moment to make any hard decisions on Latium. Xeina had been waiting for the Jedorians to send her their position before taking any real diplomatic action with the now two competing Latin factions. There was just not enough eyes in Latium for the Chacano government to get a good grasp on state of affairs themselves, the government would have to rely on their allies for intelligence. Chaco had always focused what little resources it had on its surroundings in and around Ayaca. Latium was just too far away to worry about. But now with Chaco’s membership in the CTO, the potential for conflict mattered.

Chewing on the end of a pen and rocking back and forth in her leather chair, Xeina read a report from the embassy in Castellum ab Alba. It was getting late in the evening and the report had just come through. Xeina had waited around the office expecting news and wanting to be as up to date as possible about what was happening.

The situation seemed to be getting worse. Road blocks and checkpoints were being established over the country, and the city was in a curfew. There were rumors that the embassy had yet to confirm of gunshots in the capital. It wasn’t to the point where diplomatic relations needed to be broken off, Xeina, doubted that would be necessary unless Chaco was drawn into a war, but it looked like some of the less important embassy staff could be removed from the country.

Xenia penned a quick message to be sent to the embassy. She wrote that non-essential staff were to be gradually sent out of the country a few at a time to try and avoid any unnecessary attention. When she finished writing the note, Xeina pressed the intercom and summoned her secretary, “Could you take this down to communications and have them encrypt it and send it to the ambassador in Latium?”

“Of course, Ms. Ccallo. Anything else?”

“No that’s all for now, thank you.” Xeina replied and then went back to her desk to grab her bag. She looked around her office making sure she didn’t forget anything and then walked out for the night.

Brigadier Julian Tomás
Arica Marine Base, Northern Chaco

Most people who looked at Julian Tomás would have taken him for a librarian, or a history teacher, someone who was rather ordinary and bookish at least, certainly not a marine brigadier. He had a slight frame some might call petit, and wore his graying hair as long as he could get away with so that he could keep it neat and combed. When not on base, Julian spent his spare time in his office at home reading and writing military history. He had published several books, and had written articles for academic journals. The military was not only his career, it was his hobby and anyone who believed him to be a pure academic could not have been further from the truth.

Julian had made a name for himself fighting border bandits in the jungle during the late 90s where he discovered an encampment containing about twice as many bandits as men on his patrol. Realizing that they had no sentries, and were lounging in the afternoon heat, Julian took the initiative to assault and destroy the camp without calling for reinforcements or support assets that might have given away his presents. More recently, Julian had played a major role in the planning of the successful amphibious assault that had helped cut off the retreat of Theology Council soldiers in the Ashabi Civil war. Still due to his lack of swagger and his quiet calm demeanor Julian had been overlooked for a command position for some time, and had only just received the job of commander for the landing brigade.

Marines in Chaco were divided into two basic roles, the Riverine Division was used to primarily patrol the countries northern river systems, and the Landing Brigade, who’s three infantry battalions rotated between being assigned to an amphibious assault ship and training. Command of the latter was seen as a prestigious posting among the marines, who were proud of their amphibious abilities, though it was not often desired, as it was a posting that rarely saw any action and often meant the end of a career.

Julian was preparing to head to a meeting with his staff to plan a brigade level training exercise when an aid knocked on his door, “Come in please” Julian invited without looking up from the papers he was organizing.

The aid walked in with a piece of paper and held it towards the brigadier and shivered. It was always cold in Julian’s office, he kept the temperature down low so he could wear the tight wool sweaters that were rarely issued in Chaco. “Urgent message just came in for you sir”

Julian slowly stood up strait and brushed his hands on the front of his sweater before taking the message and setting it on his desk, “Thank you corporal. Let them know I receive it.”

Julian watched the aid close the door before reaching into his pocket and taking out a black case and putting on a pair of rather large glasses. He then picked up the paper and began reading.

To: Brigadier Julian Tomás
From: Admiral of the Fleet
Subject: Emergency Reaction Force in relations to the crisis in Latium
Encryption: Highest

Brigadier Tomás,

-The Landing Brigade is to be temporarily renamed the “1st Commando Brigade”
-The Chaco Light Infantry has been transferred to your Command.

You are hereby ordered to take the following actions,

-You are to immediately take whatever measures are necessary to prepare the 1st Commando for deployment and possible combat action.

Deployment location is likely Novitera or Jedoria. Prepare accordingly.

Miguel Grau Seminaro,
Admiral of the Fleet

Captain Bryan Cayo
Collagua Army Base, South East Chaco

The phone rang and Bryan shot up to a sitting position looking around in a cold sweat and breathing heavily. He had been in the middle of a dream where he relived a patrol that had taken place in Ashab. Bryan’s unit, the Chaco Light Infantry, had never been deployed to Ashab during the civil war, but he had gone on a joint patrol with an Ashabi unit that had ended up defecting. On that exercise, Bryan had witnessed the looting and raping of an Intaki village by, who were at the time, members of the Ashabi army. The Chacanos had been powerless to stop what had happened due to the political nature of the trip, but it was a moment that he regretted every night as he lay in bed trying to fall asleep. The dream that accompanied the guilt had grown less common with time but it was always the same. Bryan was in full combat gear with his helmet on and Galil in hand walking down a line of the villagers who stood in front of their ransacked little village. Every one he passed had a face full of sorrow and quietly asked him questions about that day, “Why? Why didn’t you help me?” “Why did you let them cripple my son?” “Why didn’t you save my daughter from being raped?” “Why did you let them burn my home?” The last one, a young girl always tried to look into his eyes. Bryan would avoid the gaze as long as he could, but always ended up locking eyes with her. When their eyes met, the girl would slowly form the largest sickly grin he could ever imagine. It was terrifying, but no matter how hard he tried to scream no noise would come. The girl would then cough up blood and everything would fade to black dust and swirl away leaving Bryan sitting up in his bed panting.

This had terrified Bryan’s wife Alicia on their honeymoon, then as she became more used to the random occurrence she would try to comfort him, stroking his hair and singing softly in Quechua to calm him back to sleep. Alicia had tried to ask what was wrong several times, but Bryan could not bear to tell her his shame, and eventually she stopped asking. The phone ringing had woken Bryan up right as he was halfway through the night mare, but spooked him all the same. It took a minute for Bryan to get his bearings and the ringing caused Alicia to groan and stir in their bed. Bryan’s company had just been given a week’s leave, and the call was disturbing the first chance to sleep in. Bryan looked at the clock, it was 6 am, he was used to getting up around then so he decided it wasn’t that big of a deal and besides, the only people who called his land line were affiliated with the army, so he rolled over and picked up the phone.

A hesitant voice was on the line, “Is this Captain Cayo?”

“Yes” Bryan groaned.

“Sir, I’m to tell you that your, company’s leave has been canceled on the colonel’s orders. You are to also get your company prepared for a potential deployment.”

Bryan was taken aback trying to figure out what had happened to put his men on an emergency stance, “Deployed?” he asked, “Where?”

“That is to be told at the briefing at regimental hq at 0800 sir, but rumor around here is Novitera. Good by sir.” The line then went dead.

A wave of confusion had passed over Bryan. “Novitera? What the hell happened? ” He said quietly to himself. By now Alicia had sat up, “Iman pasan Bryan?” she said her grogginess causing her to speak in Quechua.

“Holidays been canceled sweetheart, I may get deployed.” Bryan answered flatly.

Alicia went ridged, “Now? You can’t leave Bryan, not now!”

Bryan winced he should have expected this. Alicia was having a tough time adjusting to life on base. She had grown up in a small Indy village and had been the butt of cruel comments and jokes from the other officer’s white wives. She was just learning to read, to use appliances like microwaves and dish washers, and was legally a second class citizen, and they never let her forget any of it. The wife of Bryan’s XO was kind to Alicia and tried to help her but the whole business was causing Bryan to look for housing off base. On top of all of it, they had just found out that she was pregnant.

“It can’t be helped, Alicia, I’m a soldier.” Bryan answered, and then thought, “Maybe you can stay at the ranch with my parents, and there is plenty of room. We could even have your mother come out too.”

By the look on her face Bryan could tell that she liked the idea of getting away from the cattiness of living on base, but then she began to sob, “Bryan, what am I going to do without you? What if you get hurt?”

“Hurt?” Bryan laughed trying to calm her down, “I doubt anything bad will happen in Novitera. Anyways, let’s not jump to conclusions just yet, I still have to figure out what’s going on.”

Bryan got up and began to dress. This would be a mess, by now his company would be scattered all over the country. Weapons and equipment had been turned over to armorers for repairs and overhauls after the state of emergency had ended, and while the weapons had been returned, many of the vehicle had been sent elsewhere. Bryan would need to figure out what heavier equipment would need to be issued and he would have to make sure his men had everything from bullets to socks. There was a real mess that had to be sorted out to get combat ready on such short notice.

Bryan paused and looked at his wife, who had her head in her hands, “Don’t worry, everything will be fine it’s probably some stupid political posturing anyways. I’ll let you know more when I come home tonight.” He gave her a kiss on the cheek, laced up his boots and headed out the door.

[Lacus Magni]

Adrian
Castellum ab Alba

Lord Adrian Ulpius - or simply “you” as Emperor Michael liked to call him - stood guard inside the Emperor’s Privy Council meeting with watchful eye. As one of the ten members of Michael VIII’s newly formed Manipulus Umbra, Adrian was almost always on duty guarding the Emperor and when he wasn’t he or his colleagues kept a watchful eye on kept a watchful eye on “Theodora Gentry” as Michael liked to call her and even Princess Selene. During most of his time guarding Michael he kept his eyes forward and kept silent. He didn’t find his job difficult, though he grew more tense whenever the Emperor looked as if he was losing his cool.

“I don’t want your fucking ‘apologies, Caesar,’” Michael shouted in an increasingly sarcastic tone to his table of generals and advisors. “I want some fucking success and no more bickering of who is the Emperor. I am the Emperor!”

“Yes...of course, Caesar,” Flavius Gavius, one of the many privy councillors remaining in Michael’s service from his father’s previous council, cowered at the young Emperor’s fury.

Michael continued to mock Gavius however. “Yes of course, Caesar,” he mouthed back in a mocking tone and look on his face. “My brother betrays me in front of the whole world, I cannot stand for that. And what more he parades some false piece of paper and acknowledging some supposed bastards of my father. What will we do about this, hmm? It pains me to say that my brother must suffer, And on top of that I have the fucking Demphorians saying this bullshit,” he waved a piece of paper in the air. “I want their fucking ambassador brought here in goddamn chains! If they want war I’ll damn well give them one.”

“We’ve had eyes on the two boys since your brother’s announcement, sir,” Antonia Frontalia, the newly appointed High Lady Chancellor of his Council. Ms. Frontalia was never far from Michael’s side, Adrian often observed. It was clear her looks were at least part of the reason Michael brought her around, what with her light brunette hair, seductive hazel eyes, and an appealing frame. “They’ve made no movements from their home in Espo, but our assets report a swell in security at their estate.”

“This is a problem people, a very large problem,” Michael shook his head with a concerning look.

“Caesar, these boys...they’re bastards and their claim is so very weak. We should focus most of our energy on coming to a peace with Constantine,” Senator John Synnodus, leader of the Popular Social Party told Michael. The new Emperor recently mandated an end to the Senatorial recess, hoping that the Senate would comply with his order and return to the capital at once. However, very few members of the ruling Conservative Party were in the city and that was for the sole reason they represented and resided in the capital. It was another plague Adrian had heard Michael complain about in recent days. “He’s the largest threat that faces your rightful rule.”

“They are all problems. His Majesty wouldn’t be doing his due diligence if he didn’t give proper attention to all national security issues,” Frontalia added, then looked over to Michael who smiled at her.

“Send someone to speak to them, make them see the light,” Michael offered up what he believed was a quick solution to his father’s bastards. “And if they don’t see the light, see to it that we have someone on hand that fix that permanently.”

“Are you suggesting that we…” councilmember Gavius said slightly taken aback.

“I’m not suggesting anything, I’m stating what I want done Flavius. As for my brother, I want to hit him where it hurts. I want to see him for what he intends to do, let’s make him bleed.”

“We can’t assault Adrianople. We simply don’t have the manpower at present, Caesar. But we continue to hear reports that Leo Gentry is at-large in Hellas,” General Jordan Caelius, who held the loyalty of many military institutions to the west of Castellum in Sorrentia, spoke up.

“Hellas continues to be one of the main areas we exert little control. Just the other day the Scholae were forced across the county line back into Sorrentia,” Lord Commander Mavrozomes added to the discussion. “Our resources in the area are limited, I admit, but we are working on it.”

“He’s met with the EEK leader, Your Majesty,” General Caelius added to his previous reports.

“The Kinnamos bitch,” Senator Synnodus sniggered. He and his party members often clashed with the Greeks in the Senate, and Anna Kinnamos’ quick rise to party leader at such a young age certainly didn’t contribute to any end of the tension between the two parties. “Her uncle is The Doux Palaiologi.”

“...His heir is in your household guard, Caesar,” High Lady Chancellor Frontalia stated the blatantly obvious, though spoke as if she just made an astounding discovery.

“Let’s make the Doux our ally, friends are always good no? At the very least ensure he doesn’t aid my brother...perhaps we can have him bring in the Ghantish bastard,” Michael said. The discussion worried Adrian, though while he was close friends with The Doux’s son Leon, the two were never put on guard duty together. In fact, it seemed to him that they did whatever they could to keep the two separate, that they trusted the two of them the least. “Lord Commander, let’s issue a reward for the bastard. Hmm, what say £500,000.”

“Alive or dead, Caesar?” Mavrozomes jotted something down in his notes.

“Alive and I’ll even grant them a lordship, and maybe even my sister’s hand,” he laughed as if he told the funniest joke the world had ever heard, and many of the others in the room laughed as well. “He’s no use to me dead. Alive and I have two of the three bastards to hang over Nathan’s head or even drop dead at his feet should he wish to attempt to aid my brother.”

Adrian turned his head from the middle of the room when the door to his left opened. The large and lumbering Sir Ajax of the Manipuli walked in to relieve his counterpart, breathing heavily as he often did. “Why don’t you breath with your mouth closed so we can have so fucking peace and quiet for once,” he recalled one of the initial recruits to the Manipuli said to Ajax before Michael anointed them as his guard. Sir Ajax punched the lad so hard in the jaw that he lost nearly all of his teeth - Adrian thought he poor guy died at first. No one ever spoke back or insulted Ajax again.

“What else...what else,” Michael tapped his chin with his fingers. “Alexandria!”

“Alexandria, Caesar?” councilmember Gavius asked meekly.

“Yes Alexandria….the blasted city. We’ll make an example out of them. General, what say you we order my ships anchored in Hierapolis to take voyage east. Alexandria is lovely this time of year I hear,” the Emperor smiled and looked at Antonia.

“Sir, I think it unwise to bring the fleet east. If we move them at all we should do so to Helenopontus in the west to secure the strait,” Gavius told Michael with a little more vigor than he had been speaking with prior. “And with the reports of your brother amassing at the Adrianople county border…”

“I believe I can do just that, Caesar,” General Caelius stated with little change in his stoic manner. “However, I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t inform you there were better and even more important targets with actual military value, such as Leonopolis or Iasonia - as The Honorable Mr. Gavius stated recently.”

“Alexandria will strike at their hearts, General. The Greeks will see I can crush them at a moment's notice, and with the Doux stalling the bastard’s attempts at growing my brother’s support in Hellas, they will think twice of who they should support. We’ll make them fall into submission if we must,” Michael stated, though Antonia interrupted him.

“Absolutely brilliant, Caesar,” she smiled at him.

“The Edomites reached out with their condolences, it is my hope we can turn that into their support, as do the Akai according to my guests with the odd masks. But the Demphorians demand I abdicate, no doubt they will aid my brother to ensure my demise. We need to make the first move against their forces. General, order your armies in Sorrentia to begin marshalling near Rhenus. While we’re waiting for that to finalize, we will begin bombardment of Alexandria. What word have you heard from your colleagues to the west?”

“They are loyal to your cause in Iuenna and Castra Invicta, to as far west as Lomvardía, Caesar. Nothing on Utica yet, however.”

“I spoke with the Mayor of Utica nearly three hours ago, Caesar,” Antonia began to add. “He has yet to make a decision.”

“Maybe he’ll make a decision after he sees what befalls Alexandria,” Michael looked at his watch.

The door swung open again, and Adrian knew it was his time to leave guard duty. He did so silently as Michael continued discussing how Alexandria would pay for Constantine’s mistakes, and how he’d soon march north to meet him in battle. Once outside of the Council chambers, he saw his friend Leon. He wanted to tell him what he overheard Michael talking about, or at the very least warn him, but Adrian said nothing. I swore to protect the Emperor and even keep his secrets, he thought.

Even as Adrian moved to approach Leon, he turned away and continued on towards the Manipuli offices once he realized nearly everyone except Michael and Antonia left the council room at a rather brisk pace. It didn’t take long for him to reach the offices; in his Manipuli uniform he had nearly unlimited and unquestioned freedom of the palace. No one ever asked him of his movements, well except for his higher ups in the guard.

It was nearing 5:00 pm, and when he arrived in the offices he had been given orders to bring Princess Selene to dinner. So he did just that, and began his journey to her chambers back in the residence section of the palace. Outside her door, he found Captain Ausonius. “Princess in?” Adrian asked the Captain.

“Aye,” Ausonius gave Adrian an odd look and then pounded on her door. “Princess, someone here to see you.”

Together, Adrian and Captain Ausonius stood outside the door for what seemed like ten minutes before the Princess arrived. “She likes to take her time,” Ausonius joked with him while they waited. But she did answer the door eventually.

While not smiling, Adrian thought she looked very beautiful today - though he made no compliment of the sort to her. Michael would almost certainly hear of it. “Your brother commands me to escort you to dinner, Your Highness.”

“Tell him I’m not feeling well,” she let out a painfully obvious cough and shrugged. “Lady troubles, make something up, I don’t care. I’d prefer to sup alone today.”

“Of course, Your Highness. I’ll be sure to tell him of your troubles,” Adrian bowed his head but Selene closed the door before he even finished speaking.

Captain Ausonius just laughed. “Aye, she likes to do that too.” But Adrian just narrowed his eyes at the Captain and walked away. “Try not to fall, mi Lord. Be an awful shame to ruin that pretty white uniform.”

Adrian later returned as an escort for the servant who brought food for the Princess. She had different guards now, and Ausonius was seemingly gone. He informed the guards why he was there, and knocked on the door himself to prevent a long wait. “Princess. Your supper is ready.”

She returned to the door rather quickly, and allowed Adrian and the serving girl into the room. Adrian chose to wait near the door while the girl placed the Princess’ food where she was instructed. “Thanks you. Lord Adrian,” Selene stated as she sat down in front of the food and placed a napkin on her crossed legs. “Would you mind if I borrowed you for a moment The door please.”

“Of course, Princess,” Adrian closed the door once the serving girl left, then he stood there waiting for whatever it was she wanted.

“Are you hungry...some wine?”

“No thank you, Your Highness. I ate nearly an hour ago,” he told her, still standing near the door.

“You don’t have to call me that you know,” Selene smiled to him while she sat with her legs crossed on the couch. “You never called me that when we played games in the dirt outside growing up, you certainly don’t have to now. You can sit if you like, there’s no harm...unless you have somewhere you need to be.”

“Don’t have guard duty for another few hours,” Adrian told her as he walked for a seat near her.

“Good, I could use the company,” she took a bite of chicken off her plate. “How’s my brother today?”

“He’s well I suppose,” he relaxed in his seat. “I’m sorry, I can’t really say much, Selene.”

“Who am I going to tell? I don’t leave my room now unless I have to, and even when I do, I’d rather huddle in here and watch a movie instead of join in this mess,” Selene started playing her movie, but turned down the volume. “I asked Michael if I could attend his Council meetings a few days ago, all he did was laugh and tell me ‘It’s no place for a woman.’ So I’ll just stay here.”

“Do you know a Frontalia?” I shouldn’t have asked that, he thought.

“Oh, Antonia!” Selene perked up. “They met in school. She’s very sweet I think.”

“She follows him everywhere. Not a moment they aren’t near one another.”

“Makes sense, he lost his virginity to her,” Selene laughed before putting on a serious face. “He’s had puppy dog eyes around her ever since.”

Adrian smiled, though said nothing for a few minutes. “I was sad to hear of your father...and sorry I didn’t say something sooner.”

“As I was for yours,” Selene forced a quick smile, but instead looked sad. “Do you ever feel less…”

“Empty?” Adrian looked down at his lap, but he glanced at Selene when he heard her start to cry. He moved over to her and put his hand on her shoulder. “Gradually, I guess…”

“...and I haven’t even heard from Audric yet. It’s like he doesn’t care about me at all,” she continued to cry out. “My father’s dead, my boyfriend doesn’t care about me, and my brothers are fighting like babies.”

“I thought he wrote your brother just after your Father’s death,” Adrian asked confused. “Leon told me he sent someone to tell you.”

“He...he did?” she asked, sniffling and rubbing her nose.

This was a mistake. “...I should go. I’ve already said too much,” Adrian quickly paced to the door. “Please don’t mention what I said to anyone, Selene. I could get in a lot of trouble.”

She remained silent, and then ran towards him and grabbed his arm. “Please, come back. I...I’ve barely spoken with anyone outside of Michael or Captain Ausonius for the last week.”

Adrian looked at the door and back at the Princess. He nodded before exiting the room and closing the door behind him.

---

Code: Select all

To: Praefectus Counter Justin Ordius
From: General Jordan Caelius
Encryption: CONFIDENTIAL

The 4th Naval Fleet to make for sea. Set sail for the Alexandrian Bay and prepare for offensive measures. Further orders to follow upon near arrival to destination.

Code: Select all

To: All commands
From: General Jordan Caelius
Encryption: CONFIDENTIAL
[hr][/hr]

Attention: All commands are to begin mobilization. Those located to the west of Castellum ab Alba are to begin massing north of the city in Colonia Augusta. Those located east of the city will mass in Rhenus. Both should be prepared for offensive measures.


---

To: All Members of the International Community
From: The Imperial Offices of His Majesty The Emperor of the Latins
Subject: Re: Events in Latium
Encryption: Low

To members of the international community,

News of the recent and troubling events throughout Latium have been rapidly spread across the globe, so I will save time in not listing them yet again. We all know my younger brother Michael illegally occupies my Father’s seat in Castellum; I fear the city is not safe. He continues to escalate from curfews in all Latin cities, to now issuing martial law. If you reside in the city, I urge you to seek safe haven elsewhere. If you are a representative of a foreign embassy or foreign leader, I urge you to close your embassy in Castellum with the illegal government, and join me in the Imperial Seat of Adrianople.

It is clear to me that my brother has no intention of stepping down or ending his occupation of the capital. I have reached out to my younger brother to attempt a peaceful resolution to the issues surrounding succession to the throne. He has either not responded or responded with sharp words and even more warnings. He intends to stomp out he Latium my father, ancestors and their predecessors sought to protect throughout their reigns. The Latin people have enjoyed a flourishing democracy over the last fifty plus years, where all voices are heard in an open forum, I fear if we stand by and do nothing we will lose all that we have worked for.

I pray for your support in this endeavor and fights to come.

Signed,
Constantine XX

[Jedoria]

Castellum ab Alba

The Jedorian embassy in Latium was not the most prominent nor the most impressive of buildings, but it did represent the Confederation in the Empire, and as a result did bear a deal of significance. Up until this point in the crisis, the Jedorian embassy had taken a rather non-interventionist stance, simply providing Jedorian citizens in Latium with a safe haven and coordinating travels out of the country should one request it. No statements had been put out regarding recognition of the legitimacy of either claimant to the throne. Ambassador Manole had obeyed orders from Strana Mechty to the letter, keeping an ear to the situation without overly acting favorable towards either party. It so far seemed to have worked, as the embassy hadn't been targeted or noticed much at all over the course of the past few days. That all changed when news came in from the Foreign Minister back in Jedoria.

In the middle of the afternoon, without any warning or notification, Ambassador Manole and a small entourage drove to the nearest airport where a private jet, owned and operated by the Jedorian diplomatic corps, awaited the ambassador. Unless there were obstacles in the way, the plan was for the aircraft to take off and leave Castellum, then head north towards Adrionople, where the Ambassador arranged to meet with Constantine. This was all told to the heir apparent through an encrypted message sent by the embassy staff to the office of Constantine. In the meanwhile the Embassy continued normal operations without the ambassador present, a skeleton crew working the shifts and continuing to offer refuge to any Jedorian citizens who felt unsafe with the current succession crisis unfolding.

To: Prime Minister Luis Trujillo, Republica de Gran Chaco
From: Foreign Minister Dragomir Rotaru
Subject: Latium
Encryption: Highest

Dear Prime Minister,

As I'm sure you are aware, events in Latium have unfolded rapidly and the situation at hand is one more dangerous than previously believed. It now appears that a full blown war of succession over the Latin throne has developed between Prince Michael and Prince Constantine. For reasons based on intelligence gathered by my government (which is attached to the end of this letter), the Confederation has arrived at the conclusion that Prince Michael did indeed upsurp the throne and was responsible for the death of Emperor Jason IV. What we have appears to be a case of regicide, with Prince Michael apparently aiming to seize control of the throne and power over the Latin Empire.

The Confederation has not made it's stance public as of yet, but my government considers the actions undertaken by Prince Michael to be reprehensible and a sign he is not fit to rule in any capacity. Because of this, the Confederation is currently embarking on a series of endeavors aimed to support Prince Constantine's claim to the throne. If necessary, this will include force of arms as brought forward by the Confederate Armed Forces. At this time however we are still in the process of mobilized forces necessary for intervention, as well as establishing dialogue with both Prince Constantine and the Demphorian Kingdom, whom are also supporting Prince Constantine.

As your government has so generously offered, we would like to request official Chacoan assistance on this endeavor. While we understand that your capability to support such far ranging operations are limited, it is hoped that the Republic can dispatch forces to Jedoria itself, which can then be further spring-boarded towards the Empire should they be needed. As Chaco is a Jedorian ally, the movement of troops into the Confederation should not come as a surprise to anyone and should not arouse suspicion. The Confederation as ground installations, naval facilities, and air bases capable of supporting foreign assets should they be sent here.

Whatever your government can offer would be greatly appreciated.

Kind Regards,
Dragomir Rotaru, Foreign Minister of the Jedorian Confederation

In Jedoria proper, Port Adrian became the site of major naval movement as the 1st Naval Infantry Division began mobilizing it's forces in what was originally believed by most personnel just to be another drill. Tucked away within the Jedorian Bay, Adrian was one of the largest military installations in the Confederation, home to not only major dry docks, piers and hangars, but now barracks and motor pools to support the naval infantry now stationed there. The Naval Infantry were a new phenomenon in the Confederate Armed Forces, existing for just under a year having taken over all amphibious operations from the army. Though most of the personnel composing the 1st and 2nd Naval Infantry Divisions were former Army soldiers, they had quickly taken on a new identify and culture to separate themselves from their land based peers. It wouldn't be a military without inter-service rivarly.

But the Navy was still the primary focus of operations even with the Naval Infantry preparing themselves for mobilization. The Annihilator-class aircraft carrier, the CNS All Under Heaven, was on station, and finishing it's final load up of essential supplies, namely food, ammunition, and spare parts. Sailors were finishing up their final days of shore leave before returning to the massive behemoth of a ship that waited for them next to the docks, gangplanks leading them into the belly of the steel beast. Up above Rafales were loaded onto awaiting hangars with cranes, ground crew motioning with lightsticks and radio operators confirming everything was in order and on time.

A number of ships were beginning to gather around the bay. The cruisers Reliquary and Uthera Midgeerrd had arrived in the early morning, and later the destroyers Enforcer, Light of Aidan, Sabie, Rege, Followers of Kerensky, arrived, followed by the frigates Enduring Hope, Trust and Faith, Silentium, Larissa, Egeta, and the Defiant. Should the naval infantry be required to take part, amphibious ships and transports were already being slated form other naval facilities along the Jedorian coast.

[Novitera]

Avantine, State of Soletrek, Novitera
Sunny Tom's Bar and Grill


Sunny Tom's was in it's own way, a successful establishment. The reason why it had a devout following of patrons was because it was quiet and not frequented by tourists. Mostly it was a place for clientele to relax during lunch or after a long day's work. Sometimes it would be used for meets between various clubs and organized social groups in the area. One thing that made the bar special was that a variety of social classes made up its clientele and none really cared. Older rock music played in the background. Quiet enough so people could talk yet enjoy it unlike some places that seemed to want to blast their music at all hours of the day. Sunny Tom's had the typical bar games such as darts and billiards for entertainment. Behind the bar, Tom always kept a couple sets of playing cards too, a Noviteran past time. But this was no casino. There were no dealers and the games were purely private affairs. It was what Mary Takeshi was doing now in the middle of the afternoon.

Everyone who came knew who she was and she got along with the other customers well. She shot pool with them, exchanged stories and had drinks with. Perhaps they were her only friends. She had been coming here for years and nobody was startled now by the men in suits that sat close by her at all times. Private security as most dignitaries employed. With the position came a budget for that sort of thing. At this moment Takeshi was having herself a beer and shooting against Oliver, some junior partner at a local law firm. Not one of the big ones but it had done well doing wills, trusts and taxes for individual clients. Oliver was one of her few friends although they never really met up outside of Sunny Tom's. Takeshi was sitting on a chair near a wall, beer on the table next to her with pool cue in hand when Parker Gladwin walked in. Gladwin was Prime Executor Trask's weaselly Senior Political Adviser and unofficial hatchet man. He was always polite but something about him made her skin crawl and many in the Directorate would agree. Instead of walking right too her, Gladwin sat down at the bar and ordered a water which he did not drink. Although he did place a generous tip in the tip jar which made Tom happy enough. Takeshi finished up her game with Oliver before Gladwin walked over.

Oliver got the message. "I have to head out Mary. Got a client. See you tomorrow." He said, putting the pool cue back on the rack.

"See you later Oliver." She said just as Gladwin took his seat across from her.

"Strange place to be in the middle of the day." Gladwin said fumbling for a cigarette.

"I come here to relax Parker. You can call it overtime." Takeshi replied taking a sip of her beer. "Care for a game?"

"No thank you." Said Parker tersely. "I take it you got the communiques from Jedoria and Chaco." As Officer of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Takeshi was privy to all high level communications from other governments concerning and in fact, was chiefly responsible for crafting Novitera's foreign policy.

Takeshi wrinkled her nose. "I did." There was a brief silence. "What has UFASC done in response?" She asked noticing that Gladwin had not taken a sip of his water.

"The usual." Parker said vaguely. UFASC was United Federation Armed Services Command. Given how important a trade lane Novitera was sitting on they had immediately redirected a few submarines and the Second Fleet to the area. Air patrols usually flied into the strait but now their frequency was increased. It was nothing out the ordinary for the situation although Takeshi did not quite understand the protocols. She knew though she would not get more out of Gladwin than that. This was done without the Directorate's approval. Rightly so as it was a matter of national security so the Trask Administration had free reign, to an extent. "The Jedorians and Chacanos will be wanting a response."

Takeshi took a deep breath. "The Chacano proposal seems reasonable enough. I'm sure I can swing that. Cooperation, appeasing our friends down south. Reasonable. Not that I need to. Joint exercises are a national security matter. But what policy is there really to craft? This is an internal matter for Latinum. One side is as good as the other from my point of view right now. As long as trade is not disrupted I see no reason for us to get entangled. We simply wait for a winner and congratulate them."

"Do nothing. That's the National Party's song and dance." Said Gladwin.

"What is there to do? We haven't heard of any policies these two Emperors are propagating. In my mind, one is as good as the other. Fucking monarchies. The whole affair seems primitive to me." Takeshi stated dismissively.

"The Administration will work on gathering more intelligence for that." Gladwin said. "As for the Jedorians?"

"We tell them exactly what I said, for now." Takeshi said firmly.

To:Foreign Minister Dragomir Rotaru
From:Executor Eric Douglas
Encryption:Highest
Subject: Concerns in Latinum

---

Dear Sir,

We too here at the United Federation are worried about the current developments to the North of us. Like you, Novitera is committed to defending the rights of the CTO and making sure all trade gets safely through the Strait. Our government will brook no disruption of such CTO or otherwise.

However, at this moment, the Directorate and Administration is at a loss on what policy to craft. Neither Emperor has any apparent policies or intentions other than to take power. For the time being, my government sees no reason to intervene on behalf of Michael or Constantine. We especially have to be careful when it comes to getting entangled with foreign royal affairs. There is a great disapproval for that sort of thing with the Noviteran people. Right now, I suggest the Confederation work on collecting intelligence. Our government needs more to get the public behind this in case we are to take an interventionist policy.

Also, we would approve of Jedoria sending naval assets to the area for now if your government is so inclined. The Administration only asks that you keep us informed on your military actions regarding this matter. Good day Mr. Rotaru.

Sincerely,
Eric Douglas
Executor of State, United Federation of Novitera

To:The Office of the Prime Minister
From:Executor Eric Douglas
Encryption:Highest
Subject: Concerns in Latinum

---

Dear Sir,

The situation is very troubling however my government is unsure of what our response will be. Getting involved with royal affairs is beyond the scope of any foreign policy the United Federation has. As far as we perceive it, this is purely a royal affair. Neither Michael or Constantine have declared any policies from which to craft one of our own of which side to support. Frankly, without as much it would be too difficult for us to play a significant active role in the conflict. There is the public as well as the opponents to interventionism within the Commoner and National parties.

However, your request is a national security matter which is in the realm of the executive. The Trask Administration is able to accommodate your request at this time to send a modest contingent for joint training exercises. Please contact Lieutenant-General Royce Canonach, Director of Eastern Air Command.

Sincerely,
Eric Douglas
Executor of State, United Federation of Novitera

[Ghant]

"Confusion will be my epitaph / As I crawl a cracked and broken path..." — King Crimson, Epitaph

---

Inperiala Palace
Ghish, Ghant

This was certainly unexpected…

The Emperor of Ghant was somber in his private meeting room, forgoing the Privy Council Chambers in favor of something smaller, more personal and more comfortable. He dressed all in black this day, in garb appropriate for mourning. He mourned the death of a man who he had spent most of his life trying to impress, but ultimately failed because Nathan couldn’t beat death. Death always wins.

Indeed, twas Emperor Jason Augustus of Latium that perished, an event most irregular given the man’s health and vigor. Of course, the circumstances remained unknown, only that Jason was dead. Nathan had known the man and his family for as long as he could remember, given the…unique relationship that Nathan’s father, Crown Prince John had with Jason’s older sister Isabella. Though Nathan never felt good about that, he accepted the children begotten by their union as his siblings. Leo, followed by Diana and then Theodora.

When Nathan became Emperor back in 1997 and his Uncle Albert regent, the latter had the three of them attainted and banished from the country, which remained in effect until Nathan assumed his majority on his eighteenth birthday in 2006. The following day the attainder was abolished by Imperial Decree and all was good henceforth. Or so I had hoped. The Latins were a hard people to please, and their Imperial family especially.

Due to the events surrounding John and Isabella, the late Emperor Leo developed a sour opinion of Ghant and the Gentries, with that sentiment rubbing off on Jason. Nathan had been around Jason and his family for as long as he could remember, and there was always a sense of disapproval that Nathan couldn’t overcome. Especially as far as Maria is concerned…

Maria was Jason’s eldest child, and the only one with his beloved first wife Stephanie. She was the apple of her father’s eye, and Nathan’s too, loathe as Jason was to realize. Nathan and Maria had spent much time together as children, and aside from Sophia, Maria was the closest royal friend of the opposite sex that he had. When the two were of an older age…something definitely developed there.

Despite his efforts in pursuing her, Jason rebuked him. Though Sophia in the end became Empress of Ghant, Nathan would have offered the Crown of the Empress to Maria, circumstances permitting though they never did. Nathan was still fond of her all the same, and thought of her often enough. Especially in panties and nylon leggings…

“Nathan, are you there?” Cassandra snapped her fingers in front of her cousin’s face. Also present was their cousin Alexander, Nathan’s maternal half-sister Alexia and Prime Minister Nymun Izarbegiratzeak, along with other lesser men of court and retainers. Nathan did away with the Privy Council for this meeting, stacked with Lords of Dakmoor as it were.

“Yeah, sorry.” The Emperor ran his hands through his thick reddish-brown hair, and rubbed the bags under his blue-grey eyes. His face was as worn as his tunic and jacket, stressed as he was from the news. Before him was the letter that Michael of Latium had sent out to the international community. Nathan read it privately roughly an hour previously, and that was what prompted him to summon select members of his inner circle to attend him in his private meeting room at such a late hour.

It is with a heavy heart that I reach out to inform the nation and the world that our Emperor, my father, Jason VI Augustus has passed away at the age of fifty-two. My great Father’s cause of death is not yet known, but as of present it is believed he passed peacefully in his sleep. Per the Curiate Assembly Reform Act of 1999 and the Judicial Reform Edict issued by my great Father in 2001, the justices of our Supreme Court will oversee the execution of my Father’s last will and testament. I shall instruct Lord Chief Justice Comitas Funar to announce my Father’s wishes and final decisions as soon as possible. In the months leading up to today, my beloved Father and I oft met to discuss the future of the State and whom he desired to hold his powers once he passed, and to that I ensure you all that there shall be no complications to arise from such an announcement.

However, not even moments after my family was informed of my great Father’s passing, my beloved brother Constantine, most likely upon the advice of the bastard and traitor Leo Gentry, elected to flee from the capital, taking with him as captives all my siblings except for my dearest and most faithful sister, the Princess Selene and my cousin Theodora Gentry, whom both managed to escape the grip of my brother and the turncoat Praetorians that aid him. It deeply pains me to see my Father’s most current wife, the Lady Marsella flee from the capital, while sending her own cousin and traitor to the Crown Leon Euforbenos to murder my sweet sister Selene and I. No doubt this was in attempt to cement my brother Peter’s claim to the throne and name him Emperor and herself as regent. Luckily, our lives were saved by the impeccable timing of Lord Commander Andronikos Mavrozomes of the Scholae Palatinae. The renegade Euforbenos, however, opted to fight to the death rather than face true justice in the courts of law.

Until such a time that my Father’s will can be read, I, Flavius Claudius Nero Michael Iohnnes Iason, will assume my late Father’s powers and hereby recall Consul Alexander Pompilius and the Senate to the capital from their recess immediately. I mourn for my Father’s untimely death, and I pray for the safety of my siblings in this trying time. I pray you do the same.

Signed
His Imperial Majesty Michael VIII, Emperor of the Latins

And so, here lies a man
Who has fallen victim to his tragic flaw: Mortality.
All that he has Accomplished,
Everything he strived to Establish,
And all his toil will be for naught.
Through the abuse, the neglect, and the misuse
Of those that shall succeed him,
All that he has created will be Dismantled, Destroyed,
And Corrupted – Either to nothingness or to something Perverse.
And Everything that bears his name
Shall tatter, crumble, rust,
Or, like him, simply turn to dust.

“You believe this shit?” Nathan asked the others. “He calls my brother a traitor, my sister by a disrespectful moniker and tells me that Marsella Atmos conspired to murder him and his sister? What a crock of shit…who does this asshole think he is?”

“Where is Theodora?” Cassandra asked sharply. “His reference to her not leaving is rather cryptic. Perhaps he has her in his custody.” While Nathan’s sister Alexia sat quietly in her white sift with her long black hair hanging loosely down her back and around her shoulders, Cassandra was dressed to the nines in an extravagant black chiffon gown. Cassandra is always dressed to impress. Alexander wore a very casual court uniform that he must have thrown on not long after receiving the call, while Nymun was wearing an ugly brown smoking jacket and trousers.

“I have to assume that Michael has her, or at least has access to her,” Nathan hesitated to say. It was asinine to think that Leo would abduct his own sisters from the palace where they were staying as guests for an upcoming party that Jason had planned. It is far more likely that Michael captured her and won’t let her leave. Though, Nathan wouldn’t assume anything until he knew for sure. “If Michael has her, we cannot act.”

“…Why not?” Cassandra asked benignly.

Nathan stared at his cousin with heavy eyes. “Because if he has her and we provoke him, he could retaliate against us by hurting her.”

“Then he loses his leverage,” she pointed out.

“If he thinks he has nothing to lose, nothing’s going to stop him from doing it,” the Emperor countered firmly, annoyed with Cassandra’s aloofness. “Michael has never liked me, Leo, Diana or Theodora, or Marsella for that matter or any Ghantar really. Fuck, the whole country he has contempt for, I know for a fact! He also knows my good standing relationship with Constantine. If Michael has her he will use her as leverage to keep my uninvolved, knowing that I won’t involve myself if it means he won’t hurt her.”

The Prime Minister scratched his chin while pursing his lips. “We need more information first anyway before we act. This could grow into a long, bloody affair if things are not resolved properly and in quick order. Other nations will no doubt look to capitalize on this turn of events. We must bide our time…”

“Agreed, though I plan on asking for my sister back if Michael has her,” Nathan nodded confidently, though all things considered he was quite apprehensive. Michael becoming Latin Emperor would deal a death-blow to Ghanto-Latin relations, and no doubt would even provide Ghant with yet another enemy. Though he was mostly worried about the late Emperor’s family, given how close Nathan was with them. Especially Maria…

“I agree as well,” Cassandra replied as she poured herself a glass of chardonnay, as gold as the gilded walls of the Emperor’s meeting room. “We must be thorough if we are to ascertain the veracity of Michael’s claims. I don’t know the Claudii very well admittedly, but I know people that have had…dealings with them rather recently.”

Before anyone could respond, Cassandra clapped once, and from beyond the room walked four Imperial guards. Between them defiantly walked a young woman with a look of righteous indignation on her face. The girl had hair the color of mud, dark and dense, with eyes that flickered in spite of their deep brown hue. Her skin was fair and unblemished, dotted with dark freckles like specks in a bowl of milk. She was tall for a girl, roughly six foot Nathan reckoned, with a slender build countered by wide hips and a bountiful bosom. Her lips were full and petulant, a sense of mirth betwixt them.

In contrast with the others present in the room, she was commonly dressed the way a wealthy common girl may have been, wearing some soft cotton hipster-style dress of black and grey stripes with long black stockings that went up to her knees. Her hair was disheveled too, giving her the appearance of some chic party goer fresh back from the nightclub. She may have looked like some upper-class young ingénue, but she was anything but.

Indeed, if Cassandra is the wolf of the family, than her sister is the black sheep.

The girl went to speak once she was escorted in. “What the fuck, Cassie…”

“You shut your mouth,” Cassandra snapped back. “I am your elder sister, and you will speak to me with respect…”

The girl snorted. “Kiss my ass.”

Cassandra went to hit the table with a fist, and Nathan raised his hand. “That’s enough, you two. Anastasia, please sit down…for me please?”

“For you, Nate,” Anastasia answered as she shouldered past the guards and sat down, staring at her older sister with a scowl. The two sisters never got along. Cassandra was a domineering sort, and Anastasia a free spirit. As long as Nathan could remember there were fights between them, and as soon as Anastasia had the opportunity she departed Ghish and didn’t go back. For many years she lived like a recluse in the island of Abaza in the south, occupying a villa that she rented out to Spring Breakers while she enjoyed the life of a princess that didn’t want to also live with the responsibility.

Anastasia was only coaxed out of her island home by Arietta’s invitation to her to be a bridesmaid in her wedding, an invitation that Anastasia was loathe to refuse, as the two were close as cousins sometimes were. “At Arietta’s wedding,” Nathan began to speak of his sister’s recent wedding to the Allamunnic Prince Vitus of Staalmark, “you spent some time with Prince Constantine, did you not?”

Looking around the room, Anastasia casually threw up her hands. “Yeah, but so what? I fail to see what that has to do with anything. We just talked about stupid shit, like the weather and the texture of the punch and shit like that.”

Alexander, usually quiet, coughed into his closed hand and said, “Ana, you heard about what happened in Latium. Emperor Jason is dead and Michael has accused Constantine, Leo and Marsella of treason most foul. Did Constantine give any hints of anything of that sort?”

“Uh…no?” she shrugged. “It was a wedding, Alex. It wasn’t like we were talking about taking over the world or anything. He was nice…cordial. I mean, he was cool. No hints at all of doing anything sinister like that. But hey, it’s always the quiet ones, isn’t it?” she said with a grin towards Alexia.

“Listen, smartass,” Cassie practically shoved a finger in Anastasia’s face from the other side of the table. “You’re twenty-two years old. Act like it. Stop with these stupid games. This is a matter of national policy…”

Anastasia began to mockingly move her lips in an attempt to mimic her older sister. “This is a matter of national policy…my name is Cassandra, the Princess of Sandy Vaginas…blah blah blah…”

A courier snuck into the room and handed an envelope to Alexia, who signaled to her brother that she had something to say. “Nathan,” she began, “a letter from Marsella.” Alexia had only held it out for a few seconds before Nathan snatched it and began to read it to himself while holding up his hand to bid for silence, which was obliged to him while his face turned more read with each passing line.

To: Nathan IV, Emperor of Ghant
From: Marsella Atmos
Subject: Recent Events
Encryption: High

---

Dear Nathan,

No doubt you are by now aware that my husband, the Latin Emperor Jason has perished. Also by now, you may be aware that his second son Michael has claimed the throne as Latin Emperor Michael VIII. I would expect nothing less from him to have voiced his claim to all the nations of the world.

I however I am sending you this communiqué to inform you that what you might already suspect to be true. Michael not only usurped the Latin throne, but I am convinced that he murdered Jason in order to seize it. Allow me to explain what I know and experienced during the time leading up to Jason’s death and immediately afterward.

Jason kept his succession plans close to him, and revealed them to very few. He did however make them known to me. He had every intention of naming Constantine his heir as everyone expected he would. He also informed me that he would speak to Constantine, Michael and your brother Leo about this plan. Michael was the last one to my knowledge he would have spoken to, and alas, Jason was dead not long after that.

During breakfast with the family, I was summoned to attend “the Emperor” by a Scholae, which I obliged, believing that my husband wished to speak to me privately. I was escorted to the chapel where Michael awaited me, and began to taunt and intimidate me, all the while hinting that he murdered Jason perhaps a mere few moments prior. Even as I write this communiqué, my heart is filled with grief and my eyes wet with the tears of anguish.

Michael then attempted to coerce me into recognizing his usurpation as legitimate, and when I refused, he threatened me and my children. He had his Praetorian traitors hit me, and he granted them leave to have their way with me, which they would have were it not for the timely intervention of my cousin Leon Euforbenos. He helped me escape, but at the cost of his life I suspect.

That is the extent of what I am able to share at this time. I have known you since you were a child, and I’ve always known you to be a person with a great heart and a strong sense of right and wrong. I believe that you will act upon this information in a manner most appropriate, and help see to it that Constantine is restored as the rightful Emperor as my late husband wished.

I would also beseech you to grant my family refuge during this crisis, as Michael will harm them if he is able to get his hands on them. Likewise, your brother Leo and sister Diana are safe and accounted for, though I know not of Theodora, who was lost in the chaos. I will pray that she is not in the hands of Michael, for he has no love for your brother or sisters.

Thank you Nathan, and Godspeed.

-Marsella

I think it now, as if some want-wit curse
That strange fate willed you die, you of all men,
And over all times, now, when foes run free,
That stars dictate this moment for your fall.
Oh how, my friend, am I to mourneth thee?
When I do also mourn the loss of hope
So cruelly forced on me upon your death,
That in your passing, my strength, too, doth fail,
For you were always strong; our final hope
Did always rest upon thy vengeful blade!
That very blade which we had prayed would live
Until the day that all the land would rest
As finally silent, and finally purged
Of all the evil that did keep us slaves!
Alas, that blade lies shattered, with our dreams!
And so, shall all your power go to waste?
That silent sword, now what shall come of it?
That shadow formed, where light and dark collide,
Which came to life to choose between the two;
Where is it now? Oh, dead among the fools!
For all your speed you still could not outrun
The speedy silence all men call the End!
For all your strength you still could not defeat
That warrior, unopposed called the Reaper!
For all your cunning you could not outwit
The dark malevolence thus called the Doom!
Grim death has come to you, who knew it most!
You, cold assassin, liest colder still!
You, righteous killer, killed by unseen fate!
My sanity can hardly bear this load!
So, tell me not that my mind dieth now
Within my skull, for I see something strange
About this newly cooling carcass. There!
Some minor new detail that I feel false!
Or incongruent with my chain of thoughts!
Oh friend, are you the one who lies there, dead?
Or is this just another clever ruse?
Shall I then pray that you still walk the land
On nights that evil spirits are abroad,
And that you still lead your strange, silent charge
Against thine foes which are our foes as well?
If so, then all forgive me for this sin,
This blasphemy against thine final rest,
For I doth pray these solemn bells are wrong,
That they ring false, these mourning bells for you!

“This is worse than I thought!” Nathan exclaimed with a great fury as he cast the letter across the room. “If this is true…then the mother fucker is lying to everyone about his dark deeds, lying to me about my brother, about Marsella and possibly about my sister.” Nathan sent his hands crashing against the table. “Mother fucker, I swear to God if he hurts Theodora I will kill him myself…”

“Relax,” Alexander attempted to reassure his cousin with a hand on his shoulder. Alexander had a cool confidence about him, and a charisma to match, though Nathan wondered how much that was aided by his suave blonde hair and blue eyes. “You were right, you know. Michael isn’t stupid…he won’t hurt Theodora unless he feels he has nothing to lose from doing it. Marsella just confirmed for us what we already knew.”

“…Does that mean I can go home now?” Anastasia probed. “I left Ghish years ago for this exact reason. Everyone is so bent out of shape all the time…too much going on. Michael seemed like a douche anyway. Constantine should be Emperor, he’s definitely the one that seemed actually suited for it.”

Nathan looked curiously at his cousin for a moment, finding himself calming down a bit. “Say that again…that last part.”

“Uh…Constantine should be Emperor,” she repeated. “He’s the one that seemed best suited for it.”

“How much do you think he liked you?” Nathan probed a little further.

Anastasia stared at him with a slowly raised eyebrow. “Seriously Nate? Um…he was definitely interested…but you know…I’m not that type of girl.”

Cassandra snorted contemptuously. “Yes you are, you little slut.”

“Nuh-uh!” Anastasia shouted back, prompting Nathan to raise his hand again for silence.

“Seriously you two, it never ends does it? For once, please just get along. At least no fighting in here tonight.” The Emperor shook his head, and sighed into his hands. “Now, the Prime Minister is right, there’s more about all this we still need to find out. However, here’s what I am inclined to believe. Marsella’s story, and that Michael is a no good usurper. And let’s be honest here…if Michael were to prevail, we are fucked, and my sister Theodora is fucked. He doesn’t like Ghant, and he will lose once again in Acheron.”

Nathan paused to drink some of his fresh minty tea, while glancing outside. The summer was turning to winter, with autumn quickly sweeping across the landscape of the city beyond the Imperial Palace. A little fire that Nathan forgot about crackled in the corner of the room, with long bookshelves barely stocked on the other walls. It had a dark and dreary vibe that nearly threw the Emperor off. “However, Constantine is a friend of Ghant, and by all measures is the rightful Emperor, the one groomed for it. He also seems to like Anastasia if what she says is to believed…this could be very good for us were he to prevail. I will gather some information personally, but in the meantime, what is our military preparedness?”

Nymun had just finished scratching an itch just under his eye. “We’ve been on alert for awhile, what with Ceti, Deweden and Gloria Regis and all. Are you suggesting we gear up for military action in Latium in favor of Constantine?”

“Possibly…more than likely,” Nathan answered the Prime Minister’s inquiry carefully. “If it comes to that.”

“And do you suppose should command this force, should it come to it?” Alexander queried casually.

Nathan gave a grave expression. “Me.”

There was a collective gasp in the room at that, with Cassandra exclaiming “what do you mean you?”

“Exactly what I said…me.” Taking a deep breath, Nathan concealed his cold, sweaty hands underneath the table. “When Alexia was captive in Kulsandia, I went myself to retrieve her. I’d do the same for any of my sisters, Theodora included. She’s as much my sister as any of the others, is she not? I’d march an army into hell to save her if that’s what it would take. And Castellum is hardly hell, though it gets as hot as hell does during the height of summer.”

Alexia stammered, suddenly on the verge of tears no doubt as she remembered that great ordeal years prior. “But Nathan,” she pleaded. “No Emperor has took the field since Nathan II back in the Civil War, and that was almost 150 years ago.

“So…long overdue,” Nathan shot up from his seat. “I’ve got some work to do, and so do the lot of you…”

“Nate, come on man,” Anastasia pleaded with an exasperated sigh. “Can I go home now? I’m tired of feeling like a prisoner.”

“For your own safety Ana, you should stay here. I will provide adequate chambers for you and see to your comforts,” Nathan offered a kindly gesture towards his peeved cousin, who didn’t seem enthusiastic. “For the time being at least. Michael is dangerous and I wouldn’t put anything past him. I’d feel better if you stayed here.”

“Un-fucking-believable!” Anastasia got up and walked out, her guard escort in tow, and some servants chasing after them.

“That’s your cue,” the Emperor said with clasped hands. “Thank your for coming on such short notice, and good night to you.” Nathan wasted little time, walking briskly out of the room and down the hall to his chambers, which wasn’t a far walk at all. And now, it’s time to get to work...

---

To: Michael of Latium
From: Nathan, Fourth of His Name, Emperor of Ghant, High King of the Ghantar, King of Gholghant, King of Low Ghant, Lord of Ghish, Lord of Gaztelua, Lord of Gholgoth and Protector of the Realm
Subject: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

---

Dear Michael,

I would first like to extend to you my sincerest condolences on the loss of your father. As a man who lost his father before his time, I can relate to what you and your family must be going through, and my heart is heavy with grief. Your father was both a good man and a good Emperor who served his country well and loved his family. He will be remembered fondly not only by myself, but by the people of Ghant. We mourn together as a nation.

Now, having said that, I must react with both horror and confusion at your telling of the events subsequent to your father’s passing, in particular as it concerns my brother Leo. I’ve always known Leo to be a man of honor, and a man that loved your father like a second father. To hear you name him traitor, as well as bastard, is quite alarming. I have a hard time believing that he would betray your father…if Leo was as traitorous as you indicate, no doubt he would have attempted to betray me long ago in order to seize the throne of Ghant. Yet he has never done any such thing, nor given any indication of such inclinations.

I also find it shocking that Empress Marsella would conspire to murder you and your sister, for as long as she has been married to your father, I have known of the love she bore him as well as you and your brother and sisters. Such an about-face is unexpected, and quite surprising. Regardless, I intend to ascertain the veracity of these claims, and should I find them to be true, then I shall proceed accordingly.

You say also that all but your sister Selene and my sister Princess Theodora escaped…it relieves me to know that my sister Theodora is accounted for. Surely you would be so kind as to return my sister to Ghish posthaste, for a love my brothers and sisters as much as you love yours, and I miss her deeply.

Thank you, and sincerely,

Emperor of Ghant

---

To: Constantine of Latium
From: Nathan, Fourth of His Name, Emperor of Ghant, High King of the Ghantar, King of Gholghant, King of Low Ghant, Lord of Ghish, Lord of Gaztelua, Lord of Gholgoth and Protector of the Realm
Subject: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

---

Dear Constantine,

To begin, I would like to express my sincerest condolences to your and your family regarding the loss of your father. This is a hard time for you, I know, as I’ve been there myself. It is a great pain, and even greater still to know that he was lost before his time. Alas, we must be strong for our families especially in times of danger and uncertainty such as those we find ourselves in now.

I have received a message from your brother Michael addressed to the international community, and I am especially stunned by what he claimed in it. To think that Michael would name you and my brother Leo traitors, and that Marsella would try to assassinate him and Selene, is quite a stretch. I’ve known you and my brother for almost as long as I can remember, and I would never have expected such treachery for either of you. Which is why I cannot believe it.

Marsella wrote to me as well with a chain of events that I find far more believable. One that involves Jason naming you his successor, and telling no one save her and perhaps a few trusted others. Upon sharing this news with Michael, Michael murders him out of rage and claims his crown with the help of some worms among the Scholae. This I find far more likely, given that your brother always seemed the dark and brooding sort, prone to all manner of twisted inclinations.

Such as it is, he seemed to indicate that he has my sister Theodora within his grasp. I fear what a man who would murder his own father and threaten the lives of his brothers and sisters would do with his cousin. I know that Michael has never had much love for me or my brothers or sisters, so I must tread carefully so long as I suspect that he has my sister close enough to hurt her. As long as I do not threaten him, I know that he will not hurt her. If he does, my vengeance will be severe.

In the meantime, please know that given what I’ve been told by Marsella and what I suspect to be true, I intend on recognizing and supporting your claim, as well as offering refuge to your family should the elect to accept my offer. Please be well and safe my friend, and remember that you can always count on me as your friend.

Sincerely,

Emperor of Ghant

To: Leo
From: Nathan
Subject: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

---

Dear Brother,

I am sorry for the loss of your Uncle Jason. I know he was like a second father to you, and while I know what it’s like to lose such a figure, I do not know what it’s like to lose two. I can only imagine your grief, and my heart is with you in these troubled times, as it has always been in the worst of times.

Michael’s communiqué to the international community named you a traitor, but I cannot believe that. I’ve always known you to be an honorable man, more honorable than I. Our father would be proud of you, as no doubt Jason was, and as I am. I ask you now to tell me what you know, and what you recommend as an appropriate course moving forward. I know that you would not lie to me, given the blood between us and all that I have done for you and our sisters.

It relieves me to know that you and Diana are safe, though according to Michael, our sister Theodora may still be within the Palace. If what Marsella told me is any indication, then I am greatly concerned for her safety. Even as children I knew that Michael had little affection for us, and I fear what he might do with her if provoked. As such, I intend on proceeding carefully and with caution, as I do not want to see her come to harm. Do know however that if she comes to harm at Michael’s hand, than I shall reap a terrible vengeance upon him. Hopefully it does not come to that.

I look forward to reading what you have to say about this unfortunate turn of events.

Sincerely,

Emperor of Ghant

To: Maria
From: Nathan
Subject: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

---

Dear Maria,

There are few in all the world that cause my heart to ache the way that you do. To know that you are mourning the loss of your father fills my heart with grief. I am so terribly sorry for your loss, and I mourn for him as though he was mine own kin. To think that I spent a lifetime trying to impress him and win his respect, only to fail as a result of this type of tragedy is of great personal anguish. I shall pray for you and your family during these troubled times.

Alas, having said that your brother Michael and step-mother both messaged me with conflicting stories concerning what transpired in Castellum. I’m assuming you are aware of both versions of events, and of course I am inclined to believe Marsella. She loved your father deeply, as she did his children, and I cannot believe that she would conspire to usurp of harm them in any way. Michael, on the other hand, I have always known to be an irritable and problematic person, as I’m sure you can attest.

I would like to know what you have to say about these events, and to see what you might suggest as a plan of action moving forward. Though I must say that if my sister Theodora is in Michael’s custody at the palace, then I must tread carefully lest he hurt her in retaliation. I care for my sisters too greatly to see them come to harm, so I will not provoke him if I can avoid it, though if he hurts her then I shall reap a terrible vengeance upon him.

In addition, I would offer you and your family refuge here in Ghant. House Atmos has been informed of these transpiring and they are willing to offer refuge in Atmos to you all, as well as the Imperial Palace in Ghish naturally. I long to know that you and your brothers and sisters and safe, and it would please me greatly to be able to provide that for you, should you wish to accept.

With love,

Emperor of Ghant

To: Marsella
From: Nathan
Subject: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

---

Dear Marsella,

I can only imagine the terrible anguish you are feeling right not at the loss of your husband under such circumstances as you presented, as well as Michael’s betrayal of the love you showed him for all those years with wanton brutality, threats and violence. You deserve better, as I know you to be a kind and generous woman who loves her family.

Given what I know and what I am inclined to believe, I am willing to extend the hospitality of Ghish to yourself and your family for as long as you may require. Your mother and father have been informed as well, and offer the same from your ancestral home in Atmos. Given all that has transpired, I’m sure you would appreciate the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your children are safe.

My plan is to see how Michael responds to me, and to learn more about the whereabouts of my sister Theodora. I will fear for her if she is within Michael’s reach, and if she is then I must tread carefully. I would not wish for her to come to harm as a result of provoking Michael, and he would be a fool to do so otherwise. My vengeance would be terrible if he did.

I will pray for you and your family and hope that things get sorted out. It is my hope that Constantine is restored, and if I am able I will support such a restoration, though not before I know that Theodora wouldn’t be put in harm’s way by doing so.

Sincerely

Emperor of Ghant

Twisted decadence and dammed desires,
Souls lost to the darkest indulgences.
Flowing free from a million bloodied wounds,
The taste of victory is turned to bitter ash.

The phoenix rises from the blackest pit.
Better for it to have perished in the abyss,
Than to fall from grace, honor and perfection,
For the warned cries of blood fell on deaf ears.

Loyalty to thy brothers is now a death sentence,
To cull them of light from the few chosen ones.
Honor and faith in the light was doomed,
And dark acts to blacken to soul praised above all.

Ignorant of the vanity that tarnished the light,
That blackened the great golden eagle of the empire,
And that dulled the jewels of amethyst to darkness.
Such is paid in the blood that mar’s his marbled visage

The darkness whispers sweet lies and dark truths,
To those so easily blinded by the reality of them.
And to those with vision unclouded comes death,
Pure, swift and without mercy, it plunges deeply.

One last stand in the deadly ruins of hope,
Forgotten vows are remade and bonds re-forged.
Together they stand on a charred and raised world,
Shoulder to shoulder, against the dark, brothers in arms.

The night rains down darkness and oblivion upon them below,
The last voices of reason, snuffed out with unquenchable flame
With the all thresholds broken and shattered before them,
They march onwards to attain the ultimate perfection, death.

But for all the honor and glory of the empire, and its warriors.
Those who’s honor is wrought by their unending pride,
Betrayal is but the method with which to gain more vanity
And with that final act of damnation, honor is burned.

[Jedoria]

As had been expected by the Confederation, the Noviterans were not really interested in involvement at this point. The United Federation tended to view such endeavors as pointless unless they were guaranteed some sort of payment in return, a contrast to their Jedorian allies. It was agreed by the Duke and Foreign Minister that Noviteran support was important, though not essential, and that Ambassador Manole should attempt to arrange a deal favorable to the Noviteran-Jedorian alliance, but if he failed the Confederation would go on without the support of their corporate allies.

If the Noviterans failed to come through, the arm of the Confederaiton would fall to Task Force Lion, which had just finished up final preparations for their voyage to Latium. All together some 19 surface ships, including transports, and six submarines were taking part in the operation, making it one of the largest naval formations deployed in Confederate history. Task Force Lion departed from Port Adrian in the early morning and sailed west, with the intention of following the coast of south Acheron until they hit the northernmost Noviteran peninsula, then swing east towards Latium. To keep the deployment a 'public' secret, it was 'leaked' that joint exercises with the Chacoans and Noviterans had been planned and the Jedorian ships now sailing were part of that exercise, expected to take place west in the waters of the Tempesta.

To keep up this charade and since they were still technically not in a state of conflict, the fleet advanced without CAPs or early warning birds in the air, relying on normal radar and sonar to guide the way. They stayed relatively close to Novitera, where the passage of Jedorian and Noviteran warships was a common occurrence and therefore the task force wouldn't seem so out of place, at least for now. Vice Admiral Pogonat, a 59 year old woman from the streets of Malva, commanded the task force. The no nonsense senior officer made no qualms about her duty, and made it clear to her subordinates the were going to follow their orders to the letter.

“As of right now,” She said in a flotilla wide address to her various ship commanders, “We are not in a state of open conflict. But that will change, likely shortly and by the time we arrive near Latin waters. Our primary goal is the elimination of hostile naval forces and to assist ground based operations of forces loyal to Prince Constantine, including Demphorian forces. We are not to open fire or conduct offensive operations until official word has been given from the Confederation. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action. Is that clear?”

Her captains rushed to assure her that her words were crystal clear. Despite being a women of senior rank the Vice Admiral didn't seem to show much appreciation for the vastness of the ocean, preferring to remain in the CIC of the Annihilator-class aircraft carrier All Under Heaven. From there she used the ComStar battlenet to coordinate the operations of the entire fleet, to maintain formation and heading regardless of wind or weather conditions. In the dark gloom of the CIC, illuminated mostly by computer screens and LED displays, Pogonat paced around with arms behind her back, eyeing each terminal, seemingly staring right through whatever officer or enlisted person was sitting at the console. It was enough to make some hairs stand up on some necks, but Vice Admiral never stayed in one place for long.

The Chacoans arriving in Jedoria would've been welcome to stay in either Port Octavian, or Vasili Air Force Base. Either station had accommodating facilities for the Chacoan troops and their equipment, or if they were just passing through on their way to Novitera. As was typical of the Confederates there was little fanfare or celebration to welcome the Chacoans, but as allies the Jedorians would greet them friendly and try to make their stay comfortable.

[Lacus Magni]

(Image)

---

To: Michael of Latium
From: Nathan, Fourth of His Name, Emperor of Ghant, High King of the Ghantar, King of Gholghant, King of Low Ghant, Lord of Ghish, Lord of Gaztelua, Lord of Gholgoth and Protector of the Realm
Subject: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

---

Dear Michael,

I would first like to extend to you my sincerest condolences on the loss of your father. As a man who lost his father before his time, I can relate to what you and your family must be going through, and my heart is heavy with grief. Your father was both a good man and a good Emperor who served his country well and loved his family. He will be remembered fondly not only by myself, but by the people of Ghant. We mourn together as a nation.

Now, having said that, I must react with both horror and confusion at your telling of the events subsequent to your father’s passing, in particular as it concerns my brother Leo. I’ve always known Leo to be a man of honor, and a man that loved your father like a second father. To hear you name him traitor, as well as bastard, is quite alarming. I have a hard time believing that he would betray your father…if Leo was as traitorous as you indicate, no doubt he would have attempted to betray me long ago in order to seize the throne of Ghant. Yet he has never done any such thing, nor given any indication of such inclinations.

I also find it shocking that Empress Marsella would conspire to murder you and your sister, for as long as she has been married to your father, I have known of the love she bore him as well as you and your brother and sisters. Such an about-face is unexpected, and quite surprising. Regardless, I intend to ascertain the veracity of these claims, and should I find them to be true, then I shall proceed accordingly.

You say also that all but your sister Selene and my sister Princess Theodora escaped…it relieves me to know that my sister Theodora is accounted for. Surely you would be so kind as to return my sister to Ghish posthaste, for a love my brothers and sisters as much as you love yours, and I miss her deeply.

Thank you, and sincerely,

(Image)

Emperor of Ghant

To: Emperor Nathan IV of Ghant
From: Michael VIII, Emperor of the Latins
Subject: Re: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

Your Majesty,

Yes, thank you. Your kind words are duly noted and recorded. But I must admit, I’m confused to hear you speak this way of your brother and his “honor.”

I call him a bastard because that is simply what he is. You can’t tell me it hasn’t bothered you that your father treated your mother so horribly. The way he cast your mother - his wife - aside for my aunt, it must dig away at you I’m sure. It makes me realize we’re not so different you and I. Though I pity you, I really do, you had it much worse; you had to live with that living proof of your father’s shameful actions until your uncle did you the favor of ridding them away whereas I had the benefit of only just discovering who my bastard siblings were. As for your “horror and confusion” at hearing these acts your brother committed, I’d remind you that we never realize one’s true treacherous nature until they act, mayhaps Leo is simply biding his time for you to commit yet another blunder and steal the throne from you. Though perhaps not, again I can only tell you what I saw that day my father died.

As for Lady Atmos, she has been maneuvering for some time to make my father’s Praetorians her own. Even when my Father sensed these movements he reshuffled the Guard, though her cousin the Euforbenos traitor continued to rise to the post of Deputy Prefect. It was he who she sent to murder my dear sister and I. He paid with his life, it pains me to tell you. Should Lady Atmos appear in Ghant, I’d hope that our governments can work together for her return to Latium as she is under investigation for a plethora of crimes with a warrant issued for her arrest.

Though I digress, I do have your sister. In fact I dined with her the last night, and given all everyone in the capital has been through she remains in good spirits. However, it pains me to say that I must deny any return of Theodora Gentry to Ghish at this time. Due to the actions of my brother and even those of your own brother, the current climate is far too tense to risk such a venture. Why, if anything happened to Theodora I’d never be able to forgive myself. I hope that you understand why your sister is safer in Castellum than anywhere at this point in time. However, should you ever come across my own family, I’d very much love the chance to look on them once more. Please keep me up to date in their regards and shall do so to the status of your dearest sister.

Signed,
Michael VIII
Emperor of the Latins

(Image)

---

To: Constantine of Latium
From: Nathan, Fourth of His Name, Emperor of Ghant, High King of the Ghantar, King of Gholghant, King of Low Ghant, Lord of Ghish, Lord of Gaztelua, Lord of Gholgoth and Protector of the Realm
Subject: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

---

Dear Constantine,

To begin, I would like to express my sincerest condolences to your and your family regarding the loss of your father. This is a hard time for you, I know, as I’ve been there myself. It is a great pain, and even greater still to know that he was lost before his time. Alas, we must be strong for our families especially in times of danger and uncertainty such as those we find ourselves in now.

I have received a message from your brother Michael addressed to the international community, and I am especially stunned by what he claimed in it. To think that Michael would name you and my brother Leo traitors, and that Marsella would try to assassinate him and Selene, is quite a stretch. I’ve known you and my brother for almost as long as I can remember, and I would never have expected such treachery for either of you. Which is why I cannot believe it.

Marsella wrote to me as well with a chain of events that I find far more believable. One that involves Jason naming you his successor, and telling no one save her and perhaps a few trusted others. Upon sharing this news with Michael, Michael murders him out of rage and claims his crown with the help of some worms among the Scholae. This I find far more likely, given that your brother always seemed the dark and brooding sort, prone to all manner of twisted inclinations.

Such as it is, he seemed to indicate that he has my sister Theodora within his grasp. I fear what a man who would murder his own father and threaten the lives of his brothers and sisters would do with his cousin. I know that Michael has never had much love for me or my brothers or sisters, so I must tread carefully so long as I suspect that he has my sister close enough to hurt her. As long as I do not threaten him, I know that he will not hurt her. If he does, my vengeance will be severe.

In the meantime, please know that given what I’ve been told by Marsella and what I suspect to be true, I intend on recognizing and supporting your claim, as well as offering refuge to your family should the elect to accept my offer. Please be well and safe my friend, and remember that you can always count on me as your friend.

Sincerely,

(Image)

Emperor of Ghant

To: Nathan IV, Emperor of Ghant
From: The Offices of His Majesty Constantine XX
Subject: Re: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

Your Majesty,

To jump forward to your invitation of offering refuge for my family, I would like to apologize. In the aftermath of everything that has occurred, it never once dawned on me to notify you or your government that I had sent my siblings to stay with their grandparents in Atmos. I should have asked your leave before so, as I now realize this act may have inadvertently drawn you into a conflict you may or may not have intended to join. Once my siblings arrive safely in Atmos I will notify Maria to thank you for your hospitality. Your sister Diana will of course be able to return home should she like.

Thank you for your kind words. The most recent days have been exceedingly difficult for many reasons, most of all that my Father is no longer with us. But hearing the kind things people to say of my Father or tell me makes me proud to call myself his son.

Marsella told us he same story I fear. The events she depicts were and are incredibly hard to wrap one’s head around. But the more I think on it, the more I’m inclined to agree with them. I’ve spoken with Prefect Santella of my Praetorian Guard on ways we could prove these facts, but until such a time we retake Castellum he tells me it is a near impossibility.

I know my family was especially lucky to safely escape the palace the night my Father died, and I’m sorry that we were unable keep Theodora out of harm's way. As the head of my household the blame lays at my feet and I fully accept that. She was with us when we left the dining hall, but gone when we reached the next floor. Selene refused to come without her and opted to remain in Castellum. I believe them both to still be in my brother’s custody, though I hope and pray for their continued safety - Theodora’s especially as she is in far more danger than my own sister.

And thank you for the support of my claim, and hopefully in the war that is soon to come. I offer you to reappoint your ambassador to Adrianople, which I have taken for my temporary Imperial seat. I hope to stay in contact with you or your offices.

Sincerely,
Constantine

To: Leo
From: Nathan
Subject: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

---

Dear Brother,

I am sorry for the loss of your Uncle Jason. I know he was like a second father to you, and while I know what it’s like to lose such a figure, I do not know what it’s like to lose two. I can only imagine your grief, and my heart is with you in these troubled times, as it has always been in the worst of times.

Michael’s communiqué to the international community named you a traitor, but I cannot believe that. I’ve always known you to be an honorable man, more honorable than I. Our father would be proud of you, as no doubt Jason was, and as I am. I ask you now to tell me what you know, and what you recommend as an appropriate course moving forward. I know that you would not lie to me, given the blood between us and all that I have done for you and our sisters.

It relieves me to know that you and Diana are safe, though according to Michael, our sister Theodora may still be within the Palace. If what Marsella told me is any indication, then I am greatly concerned for her safety. Even as children I knew that Michael had little affection for us, and I fear what he might do with her if provoked. As such, I intend on proceeding carefully and with caution, as I do not want to see her come to harm. Do know however that if she comes to harm at Michael’s hand, than I shall reap a terrible vengeance upon him. Hopefully it does not come to that.

I look forward to reading what you have to say about this unfortunate turn of events.

Sincerely,

(Image)

Emperor of Ghant

To: Nathan
From: Leo
Subject: Re: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

Brother,

I’m glad to hear from you. We are in grave need of your assistance, as the situation is far more dangerous that it seems. Everything that has occurred is likely to come to war. As you say, we also widely believe that Michael played some role in my Uncle’s death. Every action I’m taking now is to fight for Theodora, to get her back to safety and to help Constantine win his throne. However, I’m in a safe place for the moment with my friend Anna Kinnamos and Diana is on her way home along with Maria and my cousins. I know Constantine would prefer my cousins to stay with their family in Atmos, and I know you will respect that and offer them safe haven until this conflict ends.

It pains me to admit it, but I have so few memories of father that most I know of him are things my mother or Uncle told me. I wish I had the chance to know him, but I’m grateful for everything my Uncle did for our sisters and my mother. He was kind to us when he had no benefit to reap from it, and I’m at least glad for the time I was able to spend with him. So thank you for our words and please pray for us - especially Theodora.

As for Michael, you’ll have to wait in line for any vengence you wish to seek from him. If I ever get my hands on him, I’ll split him in two.

-Leo

To: Maria
From: Nathan
Subject: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

---

Dear Maria,

There are few in all the world that cause my heart to ache the way that you do. To know that you are mourning the loss of your father fills my heart with grief. I am so terribly sorry for your loss, and I mourn for him as though he was mine own kin. To think that I spent a lifetime trying to impress him and win his respect, only to fail as a result of this type of tragedy is of great personal anguish. I shall pray for you and your family during these troubled times.

Alas, having said that your brother Michael and step-mother both messaged me with conflicting stories concerning what transpired in Castellum. I’m assuming you are aware of both versions of events, and of course I am inclined to believe Marsella. She loved your father deeply, as she did his children, and I cannot believe that she would conspire to usurp of harm them in any way. Michael, on the other hand, I have always known to be an irritable and problematic person, as I’m sure you can attest.

I would like to know what you have to say about these events, and to see what you might suggest as a plan of action moving forward. Though I must say that if my sister Theodora is in Michael’s custody at the palace, then I must tread carefully lest he hurt her in retaliation. I care for my sisters too greatly to see them come to harm, so I will not provoke him if I can avoid it, though if he hurts her then I shall reap a terrible vengeance upon him.

In addition, I would offer you and your family refuge here in Ghant. House Atmos has been informed of these transpiring and they are willing to offer refuge in Atmos to you all, as well as the Imperial Palace in Ghish naturally. I long to know that you and your brothers and sisters and safe, and it would please me greatly to be able to provide that for you, should you wish to accept.

With love,

(Image)

Emperor of Ghant

To: Nathan
From: Maria
Subject: Re: Events in Latium
Encryption: High

Nathan,

You have no idea how much it means to me to hear you say that. Everytime I think of father I can’t believe he’s gone. I just don’t believe it, he was too young to have passed as Michael claims he did. I’ll thank you for your prayers for my father and family in person since Constantine has sent us to Atmos for the time being. He doesn't think it’s safe for us to stay home or so near Michael’s reach.

Marsella told us Michael was going to have her killed. She was always kind to us, much kinder than my father’s second wife. She always treated Kostas, Michael, Selene and I like we were her own children and Michael hated her for it. I had always heard that my father was never the same after my mother died; I was too young to remember him then, but I hardly recall him even smiling until Marsella entered his life.

I’m so sorry for your sister, Nathan. Thea was with us when we ran to the top floor, but she was gone by the time we were there. Leo tried to rush down to find her, it Kostas to hold him back and instead he sent half of his Praetorians to find her and Selene. We never saw them again. I want you to know that I’m thinking of her daily and praying for her. She doesn’t deserve to be afraid like I’m certain she is. The only good to come from it might be that Selene is back with her. No one of us had a relationship with Michael that Selene has, I hope she can keep your sister safe.

We’re soon to arrive in Ghant, I’m not sure if Kostas told you. I told him it would be the safest place to stay and assumed you’d help. Once my Philip, Poly, and Olivia are settled in Atmos, I’ll visit Ghish. Thank you for everything.

Yours,
Maria

---

Aarhusium, Latium

Word arrived from Adrianople only a day prior that the Demphorians were heading to the port city in an effort to secure it for foreigners and for Constantine. The city had been the second largest port on the Tempesta aside from Adrianople. Though while Adrianople had an ancient history, Aarhusium grew in prominence only after the Social War as it was a city untouched from much of the destruction in that civil war. The city had less a mix of antiquity and modern than most other cities, with even few buildings from the old Hellenic city that stood near still in use. If one stood at port, they would look up to see the city as it gave the appearance of growing larger from the hill it sat atop.

At the port, Lord Mayor Flavia Rusonia sat in an armored car with two members of the Latin Armed Forces that were loyal to Constantine. One of the two officers was who Lord Mayor Rusonia spoke with on the phone. Previously, the Lord Mayor had already declared the city and county of Lusitania for Constantine. When Constantine’s officers arrived, they only brought 500 or so soldiers with them.

The Lord Mayor looked out the window of her car towards the city; it looked as though there was no war to come or no war at all in the city. The few skyscrapers in the city had their lights on, it was almost business as usual. Then she saw another jeep drive past the closest triumphal arch and through a taller stone arch into the port.

An elegantly dressed police officer exited the passenger door of the jeep and walked near hers, standing still and waiting for the arrival of the Demphorian ships. What little soldiers the city held were to be supplemented by its small police force should the city come under attack by Castellum, hopefully with the Demphorians arrival, there will be no chance of that happening, the Lord Mayor thought.

[The Demphorian Kingdoms]

DMS Wallington
Port of Aarhusium
Thursday, 22 September 2016

Admiral John B. Penn stood on the bridge of the Invincible class dreadnought. The Wallington is one of the newest ships in the Demphorian fleet. He looked through his binoculars on the Aarhusium. His orders were simple: Seize the port with no damage, and do not fire unless fired upon. No part of the down is to be destroyed unless it posed an imminent threat to the navy or the marines.

The port was large and impressive. Coastal defenses in the harbor were on alert, naturally, but were more puzzled than defensive. Admiral Penn had sent a shore party to have a discussion with the Mayor, and hadn't heard back for an hour.

His sailors had been hard at work for a week preparing for what could be called by some an invasion, although the Admiral was told it was an emergency diplomatic mission. But 5,000 marines wouldn't be needed to take over a town, hell, if they wanted to construct a diplomatic mission, they could have sent a destroyer and, if they wanted to make it comfortable, a small transport ship for 200 marines.

But no, Admiral Penn knew he was conducting an invasion of Latium, the first time Demphorian troops would be stationed in the country since 1990s. It had been twenty years plus since the closing of Obreyno, where the Demphorian soldiers fought tooth and nail to be a thorn in the belly of the Latin Social Republic. Penn saw it as the finest military action in Demphorian history.

Suddenly, Penn looked out onto the harbor and noticed the small shore party returning, most likely with a message from the Mayor of the town. The Captain of the detachment boarded the ship and handed the Admiral the reply of the Mayor.

The Admiral nodded to his officers. They had been given permission to go ashore.

---

Admiral Penn drove through the streets of the city as a B-19 zoomed past their car. The Marines had taken to transporting their forces through the city to the city outskirts, under the command of General Benjamin Howards. Admiral Penn was on his way to meet the Mayor.

The Port of Aarhusium itself had some magnificent buildings erected within the city. It was no wonder that this city would be one of the largest ports on the Tempesta. It was bestowed a fresh start after the destruction of the Social War, modernizing and proving itself a gem of the Tempesta, in the eyes of many, and the Admiral could see why. While the ancient buildings of old were proud and a reminder of the ancient times, the modernity of the city was also seen with plain eyes. One only had to look upward to see that the city could go on and on, at least it gave the illusion thereof.


The city also had some triumphal arches constructed throughout the city to celebrate military victories. It was interesting to the foreign Admiral, where such a structure did not exist in his home country.

The car pulled up to the government offices, where some Demphorian officers were talking to local police and some Latin soldiers. Logistical coordination of operations was promptly being set up, as ordered.

Admiral Penn walked into the office and met the Mayor, or as she was called, the Lord Mayor Flavia Rusonia, shaking her hand and thanking her for her cooperation. The city was now effectively under the control of the Kingdom of Demphor.

---

Palace of Cinarion
Ormania, Demphor
Friday, 23 September 2016

“It’s awfully strange, you know?” King Robert asked, sitting down on the couch. He was in his pajamas and held a cup of hot water in his hand. It was a long, exhaustive day for him. Annabelle and Robert had been up since 7 that morning, and it was around 2 in the morning the next day for them.

“What is?” asked his wife, Queen Annabelle. It had been a while since she had visited, and this was one of the few moments they had had together in a while. Fortunately, her stay would be longer this time.

“After all these years, nobody’s really bothered to talk about how the Thérordøns and the Claudius’ are related,” Robert concluded.

“Probably because they’re busy trying to avoid being killed?” she responded sarcastically.

“Well, yeah, probably,” Robert said, “but to think that a bunch of the northern houses are so aligned with another and we didn’t even realize it.”

“True,” Annabelle responded, “although Nathan and yourself are much more related.”

“Yes… ...yes we are,” Robert said, warily. “You know, the Gentrys themselves aren’t so bad, it’s just a small, weird conglomerate of cousin-fuckers at the top.”

“Ah here we go again,” she said. She was used to it, and she didn’t necessarily consider Robert wrong either, “Yeah, I never got that, or a lot of things about them,” Annabelle responded, “at some point you’ll have to talk to him again.”

“Can I enjoy my water first?” asked Robert.

Annabelle laughed, “Of course, take as long as you want. But at some point just do it to be nice, after all, you did basically tell him his House wasn’t going to take your Throne after you die. That was gutsy.”

“Yes, of course,” Robert said, “Dad always said that “the Gentry’s will set foot in Demphor no longer.”. He loved to proclaim that after he sent Mom back.”

“Well, like it or not you’ve won the lottery!” she paused. “You get to work with him with this one!” she added a sarcastically excited tone to her statement.

“I’m riveted in excitement,” Robert said, with a deadpan expression. “I should probably send him a message and a box of chocolates at some point.” He paused, “Well, not the chocolates. But I should tell him about the visit with Michael and how dissatisfied I was with him.” He finished his water and set the cup next to him.

“Good idea,” Annabelle said. “The way I see it, the Gentrys see the Thérordøns as weak for giving up their power to the legislature, and the Thérordøns see the Gentrys as the group of failed auditions for the local Renaissance Faire.”

Robert paused and sat there, “How do the kids say it? That was some of the, uh, realeast shit I’ve heard all day? Right?”

Annabelle looked at him, “Robert, for all of your attractive and hilarious traits, you are the most uncool person I have ever met.”

“Right,” Robert responded, smiling at her.

Annabelle smiled back, “We should go to bed,” she said.

“Sure thing,” Robert replied. They got up and walked over to the bedroom, slowly slipping into bed, “Oh! Honey?”

Annabelle looked over, “Yes Robert?”

“Also, you forgot a thing about the Gentrys, don’t forget the cousin fuckers part,” Robert said.

Annabelle sighed, “Yes honey, of course.”

---

---

Official Diplomatic Communiqué of Robert I, King of Demphor, Élbannin & Duís
Oifigeil Dioplòmasach Fios-Oifigeil nà Roibeard I, Àrd-Rìgh nà Démpharás, Élbaniøs & Duís

---

From: His Royal Majesty, Robert Calvin-Frenswick Thérordøn, High-King of the Demphorians, Lord of Élbannin, Great King of Duís and King consort to the Queen the Dewedish. Conquerer of the Dûrs, the Dessex, the Argøsas and Westflørdés. Protector of the Sea and and Lord Protector of the Realms of Demphor by the Grace of God
To: His Majesty Nathan, the Fourth of His Name, Emperor of Ghant, High King of the Ghantar, King of Low Ghant, King of Gholghant, King of Akitania, Lord of Zahaghant, Lord of Gholgoth, Lord of Ghish, Lord of Gaztelua and Protector of the Realm

---

Presented to the recipient in the utmost secrecy.

---

Greetings cousin,

I hope this letter finds you as well as can be. The indignation in Prince Michael shared fully by me is enormous. It is already evident that my government has been overwhelmed by the pressure forced upon them on maintaining a friendly government in Latium, and was forced to take extreme measures which will lead to an armed confrontation.

In my visit with the Prince, before evidence provided that Constantine was the legitimate heir to the Throne of the Latins, it was clear to me that much was not known about Michael’s ascension to the throne, and frankly I was suspicious of his actions in the meeting, which consequently led to our meeting ending quickly.

Michael has also targeted your brother, which I believe you are aware of already. I find such an action unnecessary, foolish and downright awful, and the Demphorian government is aware of his location at any time, I will notify you of that.

It has been a while, and I hope that a visit can be arranged within the next few months, hopefully after this crisis is abridged.

May God be with you,

Robert
Àrd-Rìgh na Démpharás, Tighearna nan Élbaniøs, Mhòr Rìgh na Duìs agus Rìgh Consort ris a 'Bhanrigh na Dewedarshén. Conquerer na Dûrs, an Dessex, an Argøsas agus Westflørdés. Protector na Mara agus is Morair Protector na Rìoghachdan de Demphor le gràs Dhè
23 September 2016

[Leasath]

To His Imperial Majesty Michael VIII, Emperor of the Latins
From Dauphin Audric of Vannois, Crown Prince and Duke of Saint-Nazaire
RE:RE:On the death of Emperor Jason Augustus
High Encryption

Emperor Michael,

I thank you for the message sent to me by the Princess Selene, though I must ask after her rather formal address of myself; she may know what I mean by that.

As for the safety and security of her person and others in Castellum, I would offer the Imperial Palace as a home to the Princess and any others wishing to leave Latium for the duration of these troubled times. All Latin nobility shall enjoy the utmost comforts that Vannois has to offer should they wish, and will be free to travel should they come to Vannois.

Additionally, with the announcement by Prince Constantine claiming the two bastards of the Marchioness of Espo having been fathered by the Emperor Jason Augustus, we would offer our support in the suppression of any attempts to seize the throne of Latium by these bastard born individuals. As they ought have no true claim to the Throne, and by Vannoisian views have no claim to any Royal ancestry regardless, we support any attempts to exterminate this issue.

Do take these ideas to heart.

Signed,
Dauphin Audric, Crown Prince of Vannois and Duke of Saint Nazaire

To His Imperial Majesty Constantine XX, Emperor of the Latins
From Dauphin Audric of Vannois, Crown Prince and Duke of Saint-Nazaire
RE:RE:On the death of Emperor Jason Augustus
High Encryption

Emperor Constantine,

It is the opinion of this government and of the Imperial Palace in Saint-Nazaire that, by true succession laws, you are the rightful Emperor of Latium. While we cannot decide ourselves the validity or invalidity of the wills presented by both yourself and the Prince Michael, we are prepared to do whatever necessary to progress the lawful accession of yourself. That being said, it is also the intent of this government to avoid royal blood being shed at all costs and, though I do not know Michael as well as I might, it would not be impossible for him to hold the Princess Selene hostage against myself and the Vannoisian military.

As such, while I cannot keep you fully updated on the actions being taken by our military, know that it shall not make any attempt at halting your actions over the coming days and weeks. What we do we do for the Crown, and for the security of the Latin peoples.

We shall inform you of any major developments that may affect you as soon as possible, and we would appreciate that these correspondences - especially our endorsement of yourself as Emperor of the Latins - remain exceedingly confidential until further notice.

Signed,
Dauphin Audric, Crown Prince of Vannois and Duke of Saint Nazaire

To His Imperial Majesty Nathan IV, Emperor of Ghant
From Dauphin Audric of Vannois, Crown Prince and Duke of Saint-Nazaire
On the death of Emperor Jason Augustus
High Encryption

Emperor Nathan,

Dearest relation, it is my hope that you and your family is well in these troublesome times. I wish to contact yourself at this time to confirm your sentiments regarding the so-called Emperor Michael, whom has no right in Vannoisian eyes by law or blood to the throne he currently claims to sit. His actions have heavily disturbed the Emperor Charles XII, and at his own urging he has named me the utmost authority on this issue within the Empire.

As Constantine is the legal Emperor of Latium, it is the intent of Vannois to begin mobilization of all aspects of her government and military with the intent to continue the rightful reign of true Emperors of Latium. We tell you this out of trust and of friendship that has united our nations since the marriage of my beloved great-grandmother Teresa and Thibault I, and also out of a need to document our true intent. Though our actions in future days and weeks may contradict the statements made here, know that it will ever be the intent of the Vannoisian government to endeavor for a brighter future in the Latin Empire, led by Constantine as the rightful and more competent candidate for the throne.

Please send the regards of the Prince Rémy to his daughter, Dominique.

Signed,
Dauphin Audric, Crown Prince of Vannois and Duke of Saint Nazaire

The Imperial Palace, Saint-Nazaire, Vannois

"Very well, that should be all for now." Audric ran a hand through his dark hair, looking around the room at the men reassembled within. "I must say, Michael's poor attempt at a love letter from Selene was rather the best thing to come out of this thus far. Or, it would be were he not marking himself for death with it and his actions." Audric's small smile became a sigh, and he sat back in his tall chair.

"Your Majesty, is it your intent to mobilize the National Guard for this threat? I realize that you have already ordered extra patrols along the southern border, but -"

"I must do more than that, M. Prime Minister. The Second Army is headquartered near Mont Saint-Lô and so it shall be mobilized immediately with an eye towards the Latin border. This is both for the southern security, as well as suppression of any elements attempting to assault Constantine or Michael outside of either of their forces." Audric looked for a long moment at the present General, who nodded and asked his permission to leave the room before rushing away to being executing his orders.

"Other forces, Your Majesty? Would it not be better to allow them to fester and perhaps challenge Michael, even at the risk of an attack on Constantine?" Nicollier spoke now, but almost immediately retracted his idea. "No, no, I see. We must slaughter these bastard boys to legitimize ourselves for both Constantine and Michael. We could even make for Castellum under the flag of an ally, clashing with these minuscule rebels on our way to keep up appearances."

"Precisely that, Jean-Yves. For now we shall wait, and during that wait I do believe it would be well to recall the Third Fleet - that is the one which contains the IVV Thibault I, yes? - to begin closer patrols within the channel near to the coast." The Thibault was the pride and flagship of the Vannoisian fleet, a state of the art nuclear aircraft carrier, the latest addition to the Vannoisian fleet as of 2014. Its presence would be vital to any possible efforts to enter Latium by force. "We shall do that now, actually. If you please, gentlemen."

[New Edom]

Fineberg, New Edom

The Chamber of Deputies (New Edom's national legislature) had several concerns before it at this time. Consolidating how laws should be enacted and how budgets should be declared was among the most important. After all, it was on this that peace in the long troubled country rested.

While the nation was somewhat weary of constant warfare--in spite of a strong warrior tradition among ethnic Barans and Haranese, nevertheless it was agreed generally that focusing on foreign enemies was a good thing, especially if it helped New Edom's foreign policy and economy. So the conflicts in Delvian States, Arcologia and Dengali-Ashab would remain an important focus. The operations in Arcologia were also vital to control interntaional piracy and terrorism; the operations in Delvian States dealt with a major source of human trafficking efforts, the operations in Ashab-Dengali being economic and religious largely. The overall security of the Region affected the security of New Edom, it was agreed.

When it came to foreign policy, it was really not just one committee but several that looked into it:
- Budget, Administration and Planning Committee
- Economical Affairs Committee
- Foreign Relations Committee
- Ethnic Affairs Committee
- Defense, National Security and Mobilization Committee

As well as this part of government, the Council of Ministers naturally met as they always guided the execution of government policy.

For all concerned it was largely a time of celebration. The Siege of Radost was over, and General Romain had done it again, seized a good victory that would advance the cause of Edomite Christianity and civilization.

However recent news from Ghant had everyone around the table baffled.

"What's going on in Latium?" said the Finance Minister, Count Lalery. "I thought everything was fine."

"Apparently not. Some Latins want Michael to be Emperor, some want Constantine to be Emperor. They're each accusing the other of seizing power." said Hosidius Geta, the Foreign Minister.

Prince Enoch Tubal-Cain, the Royal Master of Offices, said idly, "Is there some kind of difference between them?"

Geta replied, "Well, so did I from our Ambassador in the Castellum, until I got reports from Prince Amenmar and our agents in Ghish. From the reports, information from the Empress Marsella reached Emperor Nathan claiming that the new Emperor-claimant, Michael, usurped the throne and possibly murdered Emperor Jason. Then there is the claim by some members of House Gentry that Constantine, the other one, ought to be Emperor. There are reports of battles between Scholae and Praetorian. it's all very confusing."

"What do our agents say about the Ghantish intentions?" asked prince Enoch Tubal-Cain.

"Well, a letter from Nathan IV to Emperor Michael about returning his sister Theodora to him; letters to the other key members of the Imperial Family in Latium wanting proof of wrongdoing. And the Emperor--Nathan IV I mean--said he would lead an expedition to Latium if need be. This while another one from Jedoria and another still from Demphor and their allies are on their way there."

"What strength do they have?" asked Count Lalery with a look of concern.

"We have no idea," said General John Ashdod, the Minister of Police. "it's a complete mystery."

"I say that we should do as little as possible about this until we know more," grumbled General Adam Nicanor, the heavy set aged Minister of Defense. "It's only a problem if we choose to make it so. We must set an example of calm. It seems like it's a dynastic issue, not really one we should invovle ourselves in.>"

"Yes, they are Emperor Nathan's kin, not ours," said Prince Enoch to Count Lalery. "Sure you want to marry into that bunch?"

"I'm reconsidering even as we speak," Lalery said glancing at him sharply. "Why didn't amenmar direct things more?"

Geta spread his hands. "Should he have? They're not actually doing anything yet."

"We have well placed agents in Ghant," said General ashdod. "I don't think we shoudl wory. The Emperor is a mercurial personality, easily distracted."

"Maybe we should investigate the matter, this succession issue," suggested Marcus Cotta, the Miniter of Culture.

Everyone started at this and Lalery looked at him incredulously. "What for?" he asked.

"Well...to find out if it is true, to support our allies..." suggested Cotta.

The King, in the day uniform of a navy admiral, who had been sitting at the end of the room in his armchair, saying little but stroking the long silky ears of a saluki sitting beside him alertly, now and then looked at people in the room with large melancholy eyes. He now spoke for the first time. "I see no reason to meddle in this. We must wait to see if our help is in some way required by our allies. We have recognized what we have no reason to doubt is the lawful Emperor of the Latins. Was there anything further on this matter? Otherwise I would like to discuss this issue brought before us by the Chamber concerning voting on the part of expatriates.."

[Arbites]

To: The Office of His Imperial Majesty Michael VIII, Emperor of the Latins
From: Cardinal Edward Long, Order Pacific, Imperium of Arbites Materia
Subject: Condolences
Encryption: Delivered in sealed pouch by diplomatic courier, eyes-only

Your Imperial Majesty,

We send our deepest condolences for the loss of your father, may he rest in peace. His Imperial Majesty Jason VI Augustus was a just ruler with a reputation for having an even hand. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

This must be a difficult time, made all the more difficult by the shocking revelations you recently released to the press. It would seem that until the legal matters surrounding Constantine's most recent actions can be resolved, then the succession must be considered very carefully. The Imperium of course cannot claim to know all of the inner workings of Latium's politics. Even more disturbing are these allegations about Leon Euforbenos in effect declaring open rebellion against the throne.

The mere fact that the rebels have already declared their intent to use force throws their legitimacy into question. Surely this should be a matter best settled by courts, not soldiers. However, if Constantine has foreign backing, assurances of support in a contest for the throne, perhaps he has been emboldened. Has your office received communications from any nations acknowledging Constantine's claim or casting doubt on your own? His Highness has blood ties to the Ghantish House of Gentry, after all, and while there are many decent members of that great house, the current Emperor and government seem impulsive, even erratic at times.

Order must be restored. Latium sits upon a key international trade route which could be badly disrupted by a protracted civil war, god forbid it come to that. We would like to offer our support in maintaining peace to Latium, including intelligence-sharing and the deployment of an expeditionary force to restore order and deter both domestic uprisings and foreign interventionism. It is our sincerest hope that this will convince your beloved brother Constantine to negotiate rather than resort to drastic action.

Incidentally, embassy staff would like to know if a state funeral is planned for the late Emperor. We hope to hear from you soon.

By His Glorious Name,
E. Long

[Jedoria]

Latin-Noviteran Strait

Having arrived in the strait, the collection of Jedorian naval forces known as Task Force Vanguard took up their pre-arranged patrol routes throughout the strait, sailing alongside major shipping lanes and keeping tabs on Jedorian or friendly cargo ships that passed through, ensuring they were unmolested in this part of their journey. At this point however in the situation, the tasking was rather routine; there had yet been any major engagements between the forces of Constantine and Michael, and while tensions seemed to be on the rise thus far the strait seemed unaffected, at least in tangible terms.

The Furious Redemption sailed through the waters heading east as part of it's patrol pattern, passing south of the Latin non-metropolitan county of Gela. As a courtesy, the Confederate ships tried to avoid crossing into the EEZ of the Empire. While not forbidden by international law, it also wasn't preferred when armed warships sailed close to the borders of other states, and therefore the Confederates had been quick to announce their presence to both the Latins and Noviterans, expressing their goal of safeguarding the Confederation's commercial interests and ensuring sea-faring trade continued unabated.

However, the narrow confines of the strait and and amount of shipping that went through the waters made such crossing unavoidable in certain areas, and to avoid any confusion the Jedorian ships made certain to contact Latin naval and coastal authorities to notify then when such events were occurring to avoid any confrontations and incidents, at least for the time being. Unofficially the Confederate ships were also there to gather intelligence, keeping track of any naval movements, especially ships belonging to the Latin Navy, or if any other foreign power attempting to weigh in on the situation in the Empire. Records were kept of any naval vessels that passed through that could be identified, the same going for aircraft that flew over the strait. The Jedorians themselves were still not sure the exact size and disposition of the forces that were aligning in the coming succession crisis, and until then all available information needed to be ascertained.

The cryptologic exploitation system aboard both the Furious Redemption and the Tranquil Composure intercepted what transmissions they could to try to paint a picture of military movements in the area. They relayed this information back to Central Command over an encrypted channel, keeping the Confederation informed of what developments the task force could keep track of.

Meanwhile the Commitment and Patience, a Bravado-class frigate, set sail further east for the waters between Tericio and Latium. Though Tericio was not really a Jedorian ally, they were a member of the CTO and therefore the Confederates were bound to defend their trade partner. The Confederate Naval ship began moving east towards Tericio and the Latin non-metropolitan county of Reate, with the aim of circling around the Terician isles before swinging around and heading back west.

Further west, Task Force Lion continued sailing north, reaching closer to the edge of the Noviteran state and the opening of the Latin-Noviteran strait. Still sailing under peacetime conditions and close to the Noviteran coast, the All Under Heaven dwarfing the ships around it as it moved northward, as of yet not officially part of the current conflict unfolding in Latium.

To: Duke of Périnesse-Toucourt, Jean-Christophe Dammartin
From: Foreign Minister Dragomir Rotaru
Subject: Situation in Latium
Encryption: Highest

Dear Prime Minister,

I hope this letter finds you well and in good health, the same to your Emperor and family.

As I am sure you are aware, a situation has developed in Latium regarding the succession of the Latin Throne following the unexpected death of Emperor Jason IV. His death, while tragic, has seemed to only bring forward more controversy, given the competing claimants to the throne by Prince Michael and Prince Constatine. It was the assumption of my government that Prince Constantine would be chosen as heir, however we first learned that Prince Michael had apparently succeeded Emperor Jason as ruler of the Latin Empire.

But now we have learned of a great deal of things; the reports of gunfire at the Palace of Augustus, the fighting between the Praetorian Guard and the Scholae Palatinae, and now the rival will produced by Prince Constantine allegedly proving himself as the rightful heir to the throne. As a fellow monarchy with strong ties to Latium, I am sure this situation is of great concern to your nation and government. The same can be said for the Confederation, despite our previous distance from Latium. My government believes however that the potential succession crisis is one we cannot avoid, and have asked my to inquire as to your nations intentions with regard to the Latin situation. As a neighbor and friend to the Empire, the Confederation wishes to know local reactions to the impending succession dispute before our own involvement is weighed.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Confederation and our involvement in Latium, please feel free to contact me.

Kind Regards,
Dragomir Rotaru, Foreign Minister of the Jedorian Confederation

[Lacus Magni]

Leo
Cathedral of St. Andrew
Alexandria, Bosphoros

Before the Latin kings ruled Latium, the land was far and wide called Hellas and was home to a Greek kingdom. They ruled from the grandest of their cities - Agato - but when Felix Claudius and his Latin invaders came, they took it for their capital and it soon became Castellum ab Alba. These Latin kings would rule from Castellum for nearly two-hundred years until the Royal Court was moved to Alexandria where it would remain until the 1950s.

Leo had heard the history of the city so many times. “Here your great ancestor did this...here they did that...so and so built that,” he was told ad nauseum when he made his first visit to the city as a boy of ten. He always found it odd, the city specifically built by the Latin kings grew to become the most important Hellenic city in all of Latium.

The Prince had fond memories of that day and of the ball he would later attend during that time. The Doux of Akropolites hosted a ball for his daughter’s sixteenth birthday and invited all the noblemen and women of the country to attend. He met Anna that night, and they became quick friends. “My Lady,” he remembered it so vividly the first time he spoke to her.

She was shy. “Oh, I’m not a lady,” he recalled she was quick to point that out. He was so confused, why would she be here if she wasn’t a noble lady. “My mother is a lady, but I’m not.” Her mother is of the Palaiologi-Oriundi, but she herself is a Kinnamos - which may have been even more noteworthy at that point in time.

“Leo, this is Doúkissa Xene, wife of Doux Petros of Doukas,” Anna elbowed him as he continued to stare into seemingly nothing. Leo had wanted to hold the great meeting in the Grand Palace, but Anna convinced him that it was too obvious of a target should anyone catch wind they were convening in Alexandria. Instead, they met at the Cathedral of St. Andrew. It was rebuilt after its destruction during the Social War, but looked every bit the same as the original with its Byzantine architectural design.

“My husband sends his condolences for your uncle, Prince Leo. Along with his apologies for not being able to attend in person. He wishes he could have attended this grand meeting, but his many ailments simply won’t permit,” the elderly woman with olive tinted skin and white hair fraily shook Leo’s hand.

Leo had often heard how the Doux Doukas was one of the founding members of the Greek Resistance - along with Anna’s own grandfather - against the Social Republic during the Social War. Anna recently told him of how the Resistance would have collapsed entirely under the weight of Social Republic’s forces if not for the financing and leadership The Doux provided to the cause. His or even his wife’s support could mean a great deal in securing Hellas for Constantine.

“Quite alright, Your Grace. I’m honored you could attend in his stead, as much as I was looking forward to finally meet the man I’ve heard so much about,” Leo let out one of the weak smiles he often did as of late.

“I’ll be sure to tell him that,” Doúkissa Xene smiled at Leo before turning to Anna, who promptly escorted the Doúkissa to her seat at a nearby table.

All in all, Anna had called for all forty-four of her Greek National Party Senators to attend and they all did. Even a handful of Greek senators from the Progressive Party were in attendance. “Leader Lepera sends her best wishes,” the head of the Progressive Party’s miniscule delegation told Leo. “I’m told she is working on meeting with your cousin as soon as possible.” But the group consisted of more than Senators, with nearly seven Greek lords or peers in attendance: The Doux Palaiologi, The Count of Geraki, The Lords of Causennae, Kepetta, Hiemsdeicio, Pumbedita and Dodóni...and of course Doúkissa of Doukas. Even a handful of local government members made the trip to Alexandria, mayors of major Greek cities, and a handful of county-level officials.

Leo and Anna sat with the church’s altar to their back, a folding table placed in front of them and all of their guests seated throughout the many pews of the Cathedral. Many were talking amongst themselves, but all were sitting according to their position. The senators sat amongst the senators, the nobles among the nobles and the local government officials sitting amongst themselves. “My Lords, Ladies, Senators and Honorable guests, thank you for making the time to meet. We understand that under the circumstances currently befalling the country that it was no easy ask of you,” Leo spoke with authority though wasn’t overbearing. “We all know what happened to my Uncle, that Michael sits in my Uncle’s throne as a usurper. He’s issued curfews, martial law, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he is preparing to invade. We must band together, all of us, to put an end to his unlawful reign before it is too late.”

“We’ve all heard about the curfews and martial law. Michael has made that abundantly clear since they day your Uncle died,” Count Andreas of Geraki stood up and declared, holding the fold of his jacket. He was a short and rotund man, with red cheeks that would have made him look like St. Nicholas to a child. “Yet we have seen little effect if any near my home, and I’m sure elsewhere around Hellas.” Nearly everyone in the room nodded.

“If we wait until the moment he has the ability to enforce his will, it will be far too late, my Lord,” Leo rose to address everyone. “Should he gain the forces to actually march on Hellas, we’re all doomed the Greeks included.”

“You underestimate us, boy?” Lord Alexios of Causennae barked from his seat in the fifth row of nobles and their retainers. He snorted. “Might I remind you the last time someone underestimated the Hellenes.”

“I know full well what happened in the war. My grandfather…” Leo spoke again before he was interrupted.

“You are not your grandfather, boy. And your grandfather wouldn’t have won his war without us,” Lord Alexios snapped at Leo once more.

Leo looked to Anna, his face was growing in frustration and she was sure to notice it. Why are they being so difficult. “Aye, my Lord. He may not have, but the Greeks supported him and he supported them. I see no reason why we cannot do so once more; separate we are weak against Michael and his supporters, but together we can defeat him. It is no different than then.”

“No different?” Lord Alexios continued to heckle Leo, and the Prince closed his eyes so they couldn’t see him roll them. “Many of us in this room, your friend Ms. Kinnamos included, lost many a family member at the hands of Rulliu and his Obequio. They put villages to the sword, Michael has not. This is not our fight My Lords and Ladies.”

“Rulliu killed members of my own family as well, my Lord. Or have you forgotten that. My grandmother Diana lost all her family but her sister at his hand. Everyone lost family in that war. You are not alone in that.”

“He killed my brother the night of the Emperor’s death,” Lord Alexandros of Kepetta was the first noble to speak in Leo’s defense. “Called him a traitor...he calls my cousin Marsella a traitor. My brother was no traitor, he dedicated his life to protecting the people of this country and then Jason Augustus. Constantine has my support, Your Highness.”

Lord Alexios snorted again and shook his head. “I will not sit here and be lectured to be lectured to by a boy born both bastard and excommunicated,” he stood up with the assistance of his aide sitting near him. “I should have gone to Espo instead.”

“Your Graces, My Lords, Ladies and honorable representatives, I feel Prince Leo has the right of it. Though we may not yet have been affected by Michael’s repressive declarations,” Anna stood up to speak on behalf of Leo, with the large cathedral door slamming shut to interrupt her. “My own father knew many of you personally during his time of public service. He was the face of Hellenic politics because you chose him to be. You respected him, and he you. If he were still alive I know he would have listened to what the Prince had to say and would have been quick to reach out to Emperor Constantine.”

The Doux Palaiologi rose to speak next, allowing both Leo and Anna to take a sigh of relief. If each of them expected to have any ally in the room it would have been Palaiologi. “Dear niece, perhaps The Lord of Causennae has a point.”

“...uncle...” Anna said in a deflated voice.

“I admit, Michael’s actions since the death of Jason Augustus are indeed worrisome. But should we accept Constantine as our Emperor just because one politician and his own cousin vouches for him,” Palaiologi continued to speak while Leo grew near red in anger. “Why should we so willingly offer our support to him simply because he asks. We know so very little of him.”

“Ask then, Your Grace,” Leo stood up forcefully and leaned forward on the table. “I’ve known both Constantine and Michael nearly all my life. I can say without a doubt that if you desire the stability Latium saw during my uncle’s reign and throughout that of my grandfather and grandmother’s, then Constantine is the only choice.”

“You all know my father spoke at length to how good of friends the Claudii have been to the our people over the years,” Anna added to Leo’s point about Constantine and Michael.

“Anna, we know you are looking out for your friend and his family. We are not too ignorant to see that and how admirable that is,” her uncle interrupted again. “But what have the Claudii done for us since the war. Whenever the local governments asked for devolution, we never received it. Not to mention the late Emperor shuffling some county borders in ways less than unfavorable to our people.”

“Perhaps you are to ignorant to see that while the local governments requested devolution, the people voted it down each time,” Anna shot back to her uncle, though now some of her senators began to speak amongst themselves.

“Opposition Leader Lepera has already pledged her support to Constantine as the rightful Emperor,” one of the Greek Progressive Party members spoke up.

“Whatever that Papist does is no concern of ours. She is no Greek,” The Doux Palaiologi added.

“Perhaps it is time for the home rule discussion to occur again,” Senator Leon Dalassenos stated. Leo didn’t like Dalassenos, though that was in large part to Anna confiding in him that since Dalassenos defected from the Conservatives he had been gunning for her position as leader. “The local government reform has even hampered some schools ability to teach in Greek to their classes.”

“Didn’t you vote for the local government reform, Senator Dalassenos?” Anna reminded him, causing quite the roar and laugh from many of the senators and Leo. He had nothing to say to that and quickly sat down.

“The Senator’s memory of his own voting record aside, this may be the time to demand a devolved government just as there is in Greater Alba,” Anna’s Deputy Leader supported Dalassenos’ idea. “The last referendum we had on the issue we were in a different political climate and the people were largely distrusting of the government in the capital. The EEK didn’t even have as large a reputation then.”

“Devolution?” Leo asked as he remained seated. He grew tired of this discussion. This should have been over by now. “Is that all? I can reach out to Emperor Constantine, and see what he has to say. I can’t envision it will be an issue.”

The whole group of local government members nodded emphatically to Leo’s suggestion of accepting devolution, even the senators did. The nobles were quiet, but Leo wasn’t sure if that was due to Palaiologi’s recent words erring towards caution or if they were simply waiting to see if he would cave to other concessions.

“He should use the title of Basileus and Autokrator alongside that of Emperor,” someone one shouted out. Even more shout out things Leo couldn’t understand.

“The Count of Geraki has a daughter near Constantine’s age. I’d say a Greek consort is long overdue, don’t you all agree?” Lord Thomas of Pumbedita added.

“Aye,” The Count Geraki added. “Eudokia, Your Highness. Twenty-two, just as your cousin. She’s a sweet girl, I think your Constantine would like her.”

“My uncle’s consort Marsella has Greek blood in her, my Lords,” Leo reminded the Lord of Pumbedita. “That is a petty request. Every minute we waste time with demands such as these is another minute we lose to dethrone the usurper.”

“No offense to The Lord of Kepetta, but your uncle’s third consort was hardly even a half-Greek. Your uncle’s second wife was of common birth, and his first a Latin,” Lord Thomas rebuked. “The young in Hellas should see one of their own in the Imperial family or in the Consul’s chair at least.”

“Matters of the Senate are not of discussion here. Pompilius is Consul, he cannot be removed at your whim.”

“He is Consul, that is true,” Lord Thomas admitted before continuing towards his desired concession. “But he has yet to say anything to the public regarding the conflict between your Imperial cousins. You must see how concerning that is.”

One of the Progressive Party Greeks rose again. “Our party’s leadership has reached out to the Consul and Senate leadership time and time again, we’ve yet to get a response that wasn’t along the lines of how they are still gauging the situation.”

“How did this turn into the Consul being my problem...I’m losing control,” Leo whispered to Anna.

“We lost control the second my uncle opened his damn mouth,” she looked apologetic, but it wasn’t her fault. “I’m so sorry. I don’t know why on earth he’d do that.”

“I’m sorry Prince Leo, are we interrupting something?” the Doux Palaiologi rose his voice to give the appearance he was upset.

“Not at all, your Grace. I was merely commenting to your niece at how I am disappointed with the display I’ve seen today. It was not at all what I expected of those I was told were among the best and most noble Greeks in the country. My Uncle was murdered in cold blood, and now a usurper sits on his throne while my cousin Constantine is risking his life and the lives of his whole family to try and save what little of Latium might remain from the reigns of Leo, Diana, and Jason,” Leo now rose from his seat and spoke with more authority in his voice than he knew he had in him. “He holds no regard for the law and I promise you, if you continue to hide behind these city walls he will come for you, and you won’t have anyone to protect you.”

“I’m sorry...did you say murder? That is quite the accusation to throw around, Prince Leo,” questioned The Lord of Hiemsdeicio, who had so far kept quiet to the events unfolding in the Cathedral.

“Actually...I’ve heard similar rumors from among some of my staffers,” the Mayor of Alexandria added to the discussion.

“These are rumors then?” the Doux Palaiologi questioned, it was clear to Leo this man would ruin any attempt to pull the most powerful of the Greeks to Constantine’s cause. “You ask us to risk the lives of millions based on rumors. Perhaps you should come back to us once you have something more...substantial to offer us.”

“Some time then?” the elderly Doúkissa Xene slowly rose and spoke softly and elegantly. “The gravity of this situation is not lost on us, Prince Leo...nor are the constraints of time. Why don’t we reconvene once we’ve had a moment to dwell on all you’ve said.”

And for me to send your demands to Constantine, Leo thought before his mind shifted to the growing concern that many or some of these leaders wouldn’t even return. “Very well, Your Grace. Ms. Kinnamos and I will remain here for a time to speak with any of you should you like.”

---

Honoria
Domi Rufus
Espo, Fuscina

Events had moved offly fast since the death of Emperor Jason VI Augustus, even faster for the Caprenii family and their newly acquired status. Immediately following the news break of the late Emperor’s demise, the Marchioness of Espo - along with her three children - rushed from their familial estate in Colonia Augusta to their ancestral home in Espo of the county Fuscina. Honoria was 6th Marchioness of Espo, having held the title since she was a girl of six. She was the youngest child of the 5th Marquis George, having three older brothers with only one still living. Her two oldest brothers perished in a plane crash in April 1976, with her father passing from a massive heart attack only a month later.

Though events continued to grow ever more interesting even after she and her children reached Espo safely, especially for her two boys. All their life she told them who their father was, and all their life they grew up not knowing if it was ever true. “He is your father. I swear it,” she often told George and Alexander. But Jason Augustus never acknowledged them as his own, and the boys either grew to hate him for it or simply brush off their mother’s words as stories for children.

The rumors regarding Honoria and Jason were most rampant in the time between his first marriage and second. He stayed single for a time, though his whoring was rather widely known. Honoria had met the would be emperor in 1992 at the annual Ludi Hippodromus; she spoke of the occasion often and her children believed it may have been one of the happiest days of her life. She gave birth to her son George nine months later.

The rumors would persist that Jason and Honoria were dating, until his engagement to Zoe Verruscosi was announced in 1993. The rumors of his infidelity with Honoria would continue as she later claimed that she spent the wedding night with Jason. She later claimed that her son Alexander was born from Jason.

And on 12 September 2016, her sons George and Alexander finally believed their mother as they watched Prince Constantine say the words right from Jason’s own Last Will and Testament. “I...I don’t believe it,” George told her after she called him into the room to watch it unfold. “You were telling the truth.”

“Of course I was,” Honoria kissed her eldest son on the forehead. “I always told you that the world was yours and this day would always come.” She knew her sons and even her daughter often thought she was delusional, but Honoria surprised them and would continue to do so.

“...I mean it’s nice to know he’s my father,” George said with a smile before he shrugged his shoulders. “But he’s dead now and these two are going to fight.”

“Nothing will stop that,” Alexander added. The two boys shared more of their looks with Honoria than they did with Jason. Their skin was darker than Jason’s ever was, with a natural tan; their hair darker, thicker and more lush than he. By their looks, it would be difficult to prove their parentage, and Jason never consented to DNA tests, but that didn’t matter now. The boy Constantine read the will and the status of George and Alexander was law.

“When is your birthday, George?” Honoria asked her son, and he was taken aback.

“That can’t be a serious question, mother. You know when my birthday is.”

“Humor me.”

“It’s 17 September,” he told her but she looked like she was waiting to hear more. “1993.”

“And when is Constantine’s?”

Alexander pulled out his phone and searched for Constantine. “15 March 1994.”

“You are the eldest son of Jason Augustus. That will just announced your stronger claim to the world, sweetheart. You are the rightful Emperor of the Latins, not either of those bickering two boys,” Honoria told her eldest son. George demanded she not speak of it anymore after she said that.

She respected his wish and said not a single word of it until he came to her days later. “I had a dream,” her oldest son told her. “All the nobles...the Senate, they were behind me saying my name...I saw Castellum...I was reaching for a Crown and then I woke.”

The next day she made a few phone calls, and now their home was filled with nobles from across Latium - at least those that could make the trip, senators, and local government members. When her son and his surrogates spoke for support, they made it clear that George was in full support of the noble class and would seek to roll back the marginalization of the nobles since the Social War. “Do you still want this?” Honoria asked her son before he would step out to face all of his guests. He nodded and walked out in his navy suit to face his guests.

Honoria hung back to watch her son from afar. When he grew smaller in her vision she heard a roar of voices followed by an even louder voice. “Allow me to present His Imperial Majesty the Most Serene and Noble, Unconquered, Emperor of the Latins...George IV. Long may He reign.”

“God Save the Emperor,” the crowd roared emphatically.

[Lacus Magni]

Adrianople, Latium
(written with Jedoria)

Ambassador Manole was, despite his posting and status as an official representative of the Jedorian Confederation, not by himself an impressive site. With rather bland facial features, few defining physical characteristics beyond those that his Jedorian blood ensured, he could’ve passed for just about anyone, be it a regular civilian, doctor, construction worker, or reporter. The 47 year old however was indeed the link between the Empire and the Confederation, and the voice for Jedoria in Latium. The ambassador had been given a fairly straightforward set of instructions from his superiors in Strana Mechty regarding what he was to accomplish; namely lay the groundwork for an official relationship with Prince (Hopefully soon to be Emperor) Constantine, establish the conditions for Jedorian support, and officially involve the Confederation in the brewing succession crisis as an official belligerent.

He had traveled to Adrianople unbeknownst to anyone save for his staff, the staff of Prince Constantine, and the superiors back in Jedoria, for the express purpose of meeting the man who now found himself in the midst of a dispute over the Latin Throne. Manole, being the fairly down-to-earth man he was, wasn’t entirely aware of the history he was in the process of making, in a distant land from his home, in a nation with a culture far different from his own. As he was guided towards the Prince, all he could think of was the approaching meeting and his conduct therein.

Constantine occupied one of the lesser offices in his Adrianople palace; he never felt quite right utilizing the rooms and offices his father only so recently used. Though not his father’s study, Constantine’s was still a large room featuring bookshelves, busts of past Dukes of Adrianople, , chairs and couches, his desk - messy and covered with many books and papers - and two large tables pushed together with a map of the country atop featuring various markings and even more papers cluttered around it.

“Mr. Ambassador,” the Emperor’s secretary said when she noticed Ambassador Manole and moved to let him in the office. “His Majesty is ready to see you.”

“Thank you kindly.” Manole said with a polite smile, moving into the office where the Prince waited. Manole took note of the room with a quick glance; given the current circumstances of the country he couldn’t very well blame Constantine for the display, and Gaia knew that Manole’s own private office wasn’t always pristine. He pushed these thoughts out of his mind as he approached the Prince, to whom he bowed slightly and offered his hand to shake.

“Your Majesty, it’s good to see you once more, though I wish the circumstances of our meeting were less concerning. Let me first express my condolences, though I’m sure you’ve heard it a thousand times now, the death of your father is most tragic. By now, events had moved rapidly, beyond the control of anyone man. I would be lying if I said my government was not keeping a keen eye on the events here in Latium. This dispute of succession is not normally one where the Confederation takes part it, but the nature of things has caused my government to reconsider our previous position.”

“I know there is a great many things you must be dealing with right now, and I’m sure there are affairs you must deal with, but I wish to speak about the role the Confederation might play in this dispute. As you were notified of, my government has dispatched naval ships to patrol the waters of the strait, to ensure that trade is not interfered with. However, my government has informed me they wish to take a more proactive role in this. If you have the time, I’d like to discuss this with you further.”

“Likewise, and thank you. Please have a seat,” Constantine stood to welcome the Ambassador as he entered. “Of course, I’ve been made aware of such patrols and it is a reasonable concern. Time is something I wish I had a bit more of, but I’m curious to hear of your government’s desires for proactivity.”

Manole sat down and smoothed out his clothing. “Well your Majesty, my government feels that Prince Michael’s claim to the throne is invalid, and to be completely honest, the Confederation finds the circumstances of your father’s death to be highly suspicious. In light of this, my superiors have informed me that it is the desire of Jedoria to see you ascend to the throne as the rightful Emperor of the Latin people.”

He paused for a moment to breathe before continuing. “However, such a course of action would and likely will involve the necessity of armed intervention in support of your cause. While the Confederation recoils from unnecessary bloodshed, to support the supremacy of law and the rightful order of succession, this can be deemed a necessity. But this is not something Jedoria wishes to take lightly. If we are to intervene, my government hopes that it will be done out of a mutual desire for further cooperation between the Confederation and the Empire. In essence, we stand together now, and we stand together in the future. My government will want to know beforehand whether such a relationship is desired by you before we go any further.”

“In the future?” Constantine took a scratch of the light scruff of a beard he wore on his face. “Any desire of that sort of relationship would heavily depend on what your government considers standing together, if we may speak plainly that is. Our two nations have been cordial over the years, though never overly close. Now that’s not to say I don’t trust or entirely distrust, I’d just prefer to see how your government defines that.”

“What my government feels is that further ties between Latium and Jedoria would greatly benefit both of our nations. What would define that is trade, cooperation, and mutual support for one another to ensure the continued prosperity and safety of our people. If you look at the record of my government, you’ll see that we have developed strong ties with a number of states. In New Othman and Ashab we supported the lawful governments against terrorism and insurgency, in Chaco we have established a strong political and economic relationship. Our Noviteran allies are heavily invested within Jedoria and likewise, we are heavily invested in the United Federation. Though not allies, the Confederation enjoys strong trade relations with both Tericio and United Valik. Even with regards to our traditional enemies in New Edom and Vozgarnor, we have made overtures by offering both states pacts of non-aggression. So as you can see, your Majesty, by standing together, my government wish to open up another realm of mutually beneficial cooperation, this time with Latium.”

“Our goal, quite simply, is to build bridges, your Majesty, and it is our hope that Latium will agree to this.”

Constantine was silent for a moment while he thought about what the Ambassador just told him. “Once hostilities subside and law and order is restored in Castellum, I think a greater level of trade and cooperation between our nations is very doable. However, I’m wary to commit to mutual support without giving it a great deal of thought and consultation with the Senate. I hope you and your government can appreciate that for the time being.”

“Of course, your Majesty, I have no desire to attempt to dictate policy towards you. I’m sure my superiors will understand your concerns. As you have said however, at the moment Castellum remains under the control of your brother. And I’m aware major elements of the armed forces have rallied to him. My government has no desire to see him remain in power, and there are forces of the Confederation ready and in position to support your own forces in this coming struggle. If you wish, your Majesty, they can officially being cooperating with your senior leadership to support your efforts in restoring order to Latium.”

The Emperor felt torn, on one hand he was cautious of allowing some many foreign soldiers and arms into Latium for fear of some sort of treachery, but on the other he lacked men and his brother had more high ranking members under his thumb than he. He looked over to the large map on the tables across the room. “Nor do I, he has no claim and he…” he caught himself from slipping words he felt would be inappropriate to share. “...all of your personnel are to the south, no?”

Manole was puzzled momentarily by the question, but nonetheless nodded and rose, walking over the map and indicating with his finger the locations of the Confederate forces. “Well yes, they all are south.” He motioned towards the strait, heading east. “Most of our immediate vessels are located in this area, conducting patrols around major shipping lanes. The main force, however, is located here.” He pointed towards the northernmost of Novitera’s west coast. “The task force there consists of 19 ships, including a carrier with over a hundred aircraft, and transports ferrying thousands of naval infantry. If you authorize our involvement, they can be on scene in less than a day.”

Manole paused for a moment and looked at the man before him. The Jedorian ambassador did not see himself (correctly) as a particularly inspiring or motivating person, but staring at the young man who had been thrust into the world of power and politics so abruptly be the death of his father troubled him. Speaking again, this time a bit quieter, he said, “Your Majesty, you requested honesty, so I will give that to you.”

“The Confederation is not involving itself out of the goodness of our collective hearts. While it is true that many in my government find it morally reprehensible, if the rumors about Prince Michael and his role in your father’s death, but in the end my government is looking to further it’s own interests.”

“That does not mean we do not care about Latium. On the contrary, our involvement here proves otherwise, but it also does not mean that we do not want to see Latium prosper. But in the end, it is the duty of our government to look out for the best interests of our people. And when you officially ascend to the throne, it will be your duty to look after the wellbeing of the Latin people. And even if we do indeed afterwards, embark on a path of mutual cooperation and trade, our interests and strategic goals will not always align. There will be disputes, there will be debates, and there will always be those who believe we should not be friends.”

“There are some in my homeland that feel you are a nation of infidels that we should have no business with. There are some who feel our support should be decided based on what either side can offer us. And then there are those that agree with my view, such as my Duke and the Foreign Minister, who believe that not only is your cause just and righteous, you represent the best future for Latium. Power and politics are a complex and confusing set of affairs, and there will be times despite the best of intentions, people, whether they be regular citizens, government officials or political speakers, will find fault with your actions. Quite simply, being in power involves doing the right thing, even when it doesn’t seem fair or considerate.”

“As I said earlier, your Majesty, I have no desire to dictate policy to you, and I won’t pretend to know what you’re going through, but I’d be lying if I said things were going to get easier. As Emperor you will have to make tough decisions that will leave you divided internally as to whether it’s the right thing to do. Every government goes through the same motions. The only way you will learn is through experience, and that will inevitably involve making mistakes. The greatest sign of strength is not in never falling, but rising every time you fall.”

Manole fell silent for a moment before continuing. “Our forces are in position to support you should you request them. If you do, they will assist in operations in both sea, air and land, and will fight along your forces. If it comes to blows, it will likely be a bloody affair and test the resolve of many. But the Confederation believes you are capable of succeeding. That’s why I’m here your Majesty.”

“Thank you for your honesty, it was something of a rarity I haven’t seen since my father passed. I’d like some time still before I make any decision regarding more foreign soldiers in Latium. You’ve surely heard that the Demphorians have take up in Aarhusium. Adding more variables to this growing mess is something that needs the utmost care and attention,” Constantine stood from his desk and approached the Ambassador. “I will have an answer for you, however. And until that time, I’d offer you to stay in the palace, if you’d like, during your stay in Adrianople. And if you’d require use of an office space, I can see to it that you have that as well. Thank you for taking the time, Mr. Ambassador.”

“Of course your Majesty, thank you for your time.” Manole offered his hand and inclined his head respectfully. “If you need anything from me or wish to speak again, don’t hesitate to ask.” With that, he left the Prince to his thoughts and exited the room.

[Lacus Magni]

To His Imperial Majesty Michael VIII, Emperor of the Latins
From Dauphin Audric of Vannois, Crown Prince and Duke of Saint-Nazaire
RE:RE:On the death of Emperor Jason Augustus
High Encryption

Emperor Michael,

I thank you for the message sent to me by the Princess Selene, though I must ask after her rather formal address of myself; she may know what I mean by that.

As for the safety and security of her person and others in Castellum, I would offer the Imperial Palace as a home to the Princess and any others wishing to leave Latium for the duration of these troubled times. All Latin nobility shall enjoy the utmost comforts that Vannois has to offer should they wish, and will be free to travel should they come to Vannois.

Additionally, with the announcement by Prince Constantine claiming the two bastards of the Marchioness of Espo having been fathered by the Emperor Jason Augustus, we would offer our support in the suppression of any attempts to seize the throne of Latium by these bastard born individuals. As they ought have no true claim to the Throne, and by Vannoisian views have no claim to any Royal ancestry regardless, we support any attempts to exterminate this issue.

Do take these ideas to heart.

Signed,
Dauphin Audric, Crown Prince of Vannois and Duke of Saint Nazaire

To: Dauphin Audric of Vannois
From: Michael VIII, Emperor of the Latins
Subject: Re: On the death of Emperor Jason Augustus
Encryption: High

Your Highness,

Your offer of refuge for my sister and other nobles during this most trying of time is most generous. However, my sister has declared to me her wishes to remain in Castellum. I’m inclined to agree with her as travel from Castellum to Saint-Nazaire is far too dangerous at the moment. I don’t think either of us wish to risk the life of someone we both hold so dear.

As for the bastards, I’ve had eyes on them since my brother’s foolish reading of that falsified will. What would even possess him to include them is a complete mystery. I’ve heard reports that they have yet to move from their estate in Espo, but there has been a concerning amount of ‘security’ gathering at the home. My generals are working on a number of plans to end any trouble they could cause before they do, but as always we will be seeking out a diplomatic resolution to any problems they may hope to cause

Signed,
Michael VIII
Emperor of the Latins

To His Imperial Majesty Constantine XX, Emperor of the Latins
From Dauphin Audric of Vannois, Crown Prince and Duke of Saint-Nazaire
RE:RE:On the death of Emperor Jason Augustus
High Encryption

Emperor Constantine,

It is the opinion of this government and of the Imperial Palace in Saint-Nazaire that, by true succession laws, you are the rightful Emperor of Latium. While we cannot decide ourselves the validity or invalidity of the wills presented by both yourself and the Prince Michael, we are prepared to do whatever necessary to progress the lawful accession of yourself. That being said, it is also the intent of this government to avoid royal blood being shed at all costs and, though I do not know Michael as well as I might, it would not be impossible for him to hold the Princess Selene hostage against myself and the Vannoisian military.

As such, while I cannot keep you fully updated on the actions being taken by our military, know that it shall not make any attempt at halting your actions over the coming days and weeks. What we do we do for the Crown, and for the security of the Latin peoples.

We shall inform you of any major developments that may affect you as soon as possible, and we would appreciate that these correspondences - especially our endorsement of yourself as Emperor of the Latins - remain exceedingly confidential until further notice.

Signed,
Dauphin Audric, Crown Prince of Vannois and Duke of Saint Nazaire

To: Dauphin Audric of Vannois
From: Constantine XX
Subject: Re: On the death of Emperor Jason Augustus
Encryption: High

Your Highness,

While I must thank you for your support of my position as Emperor. Vannois and by extension your family has and continues to be a close friend to my people and family, but I’m afraid I can make no exceptions and would like to be notified of any and all foreign incursions into Latium.

Please do not mistake this demand as me lacking gratitude for Vannoisian support of my government, as that is not my intent. In times such as these, an endorsement from the Vannoisian Crown and government would be a clear indicator that Michael has no claim to occupy the throne and his status as a usurper. I hope that you reconsider and make an affirmative public statement regarding that intent.

Sincerely,
Constantine

[Leasath]

To: Duke of Périnesse-Toucourt, Jean-Christophe Dammartin
From: Foreign Minister Dragomir Rotaru
Subject: Situation in Latium
Encryption: Highest

Dear Prime Minister,

I hope this letter finds you well and in good health, the same to your Emperor and family.

As I am sure you are aware, a situation has developed in Latium regarding the succession of the Latin Throne following the unexpected death of Emperor Jason IV. His death, while tragic, has seemed to only bring forward more controversy, given the competing claimants to the throne by Prince Michael and Prince Constatine. It was the assumption of my government that Prince Constantine would be chosen as heir, however we first learned that Prince Michael had apparently succeeded Emperor Jason as ruler of the Latin Empire.

But now we have learned of a great deal of things; the reports of gunfire at the Palace of Augustus, the fighting between the Praetorian Guard and the Scholae Palatinae, and now the rival will produced by Prince Constantine allegedly proving himself as the rightful heir to the throne. As a fellow monarchy with strong ties to Latium, I am sure this situation is of great concern to your nation and government. The same can be said for the Confederation, despite our previous distance from Latium. My government believes however that the potential succession crisis is one we cannot avoid, and have asked my to inquire as to your nations intentions with regard to the Latin situation. As a neighbor and friend to the Empire, the Confederation wishes to know local reactions to the impending succession dispute before our own involvement is weighed.

Due to the possibility of these bastard born children rising up as well, and due to the already worrying situation between Constantine and Michael, actions have been taken to mobilize the borders of Vannois as well as the home navy, at this point only in a defensive effort should refugees begin entering the Empire or, God forbid, bloodshed near our borders.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Confederation and our involvement in Latium, please feel free to contact me.

Kind Regards,
Dragomir Rotaru, Foreign Minister of the Jedorian Confederation

To Foreign Minister Dragomir Rotaru
From Jean-Christophe Dammartin, Duke of Périnesse-Toucourt, Prime Minister of the Vannoisian Empire
RE:On the Situation in Latium
High Encryption

M. Foreign Minister,

I thank you for your good wishes, and duly pass them on to the Royal Family.

The Latin situation is both exceedingly complex and also quite straightforward for the Vannoisian government. While these laws do not apply to the Latin Empire, in Vannois it is not only customary for the first true born son of a ruler to succeed said ruler but also absolute law; any attempt by that ruler to change these laws of succession before death is illegal in the Empire. As such, we view Constantine as the legal and rightful ruler of Latium.

That being said, Vannois is also wholly committed to peace and prosperity in our region of the world; should it be found that Constantine as Emperor of Latium is an untenable situation we will gladly look for other outcomes, and we would also cooperate with any international coalition of nations to see to it that Latium does not fall into a bloody civil war. Until that point, it is the official opinion of the Vannoisian government by order of the Emperor that Constantine and Michael are the only standing heirs to their father's titles, as the legitimization of bastard born sons and daughters is historically illegal in the Empire and so the children of the late Jason Augustus' mistress are ineligible to inherit the throne.

We hope to work with you in this dangerous situation further.

Signed,
Jean-Christophe Dammartin, Duke of Périnesse-Toucourt, Prime Minister of the Vannoisian Empire

[Lacus Magni]

To: The Office of His Imperial Majesty Michael VIII, Emperor of the Latins
From: Cardinal Edward Long, Order Pacific, Imperium of Arbites Materia
Subject: Condolences
Encryption: Delivered in sealed pouch by diplomatic courier, eyes-only

Your Imperial Majesty,

We send our deepest condolences for the loss of your father, may he rest in peace. His Imperial Majesty Jason VI Augustus was a just ruler with a reputation for having an even hand. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

This must be a difficult time, made all the more difficult by the shocking revelations you recently released to the press. It would seem that until the legal matters surrounding Constantine's most recent actions can be resolved, then the succession must be considered very carefully. The Imperium of course cannot claim to know all of the inner workings of Latium's politics. Even more disturbing are these allegations about Leon Euforbenos in effect declaring open rebellion against the throne.

The mere fact that the rebels have already declared their intent to use force throws their legitimacy into question. Surely this should be a matter best settled by courts, not soldiers. However, if Constantine has foreign backing, assurances of support in a contest for the throne, perhaps he has been emboldened. Has your office received communications from any nations acknowledging Constantine's claim or casting doubt on your own? His Highness has blood ties to the Ghantish House of Gentry, after all, and while there are many decent members of that great house, the current Emperor and government seem impulsive, even erratic at times.

Order must be restored. Latium sits upon a key international trade route which could be badly disrupted by a protracted civil war, god forbid it come to that. We would like to offer our support in maintaining peace to Latium, including intelligence-sharing and the deployment of an expeditionary force to restore order and deter both domestic uprisings and foreign interventionism. It is our sincerest hope that this will convince your beloved brother Constantine to negotiate rather than resort to drastic action.

Incidentally, embassy staff would like to know if a state funeral is planned for the late Emperor. We hope to hear from you soon.

By His Glorious Name,
E. Long

To: Cardinal Edward Long
From: Michael VIII, Emperor of the Latins
Subject: Re: Condolences
Encryption: High

Cardinal Long,

Thank you for the kind words and thoughts in regards to my father. The actions of my brother and his allies in the time since his death have troubled me nearly as much as losing my father has - not to mention the attempt on the lives of my sister and myself by his treacherous Praetorian guards.

Plans for my Imperial Father’s funeral are nearly finalized and we would be honored to have your ambassador in attendance. As it happens, the courts have already declared me to be the lawful successor to the throne, my brother’s attempts at usurpation notwithstanding. I will be taking your offer for military assistance under careful consideration in the coming days, but I would be more than pleased if we could arrange for a meeting between top military personnel of my own and those you would send were Latium to accept aid from the Imperium. I look forward to your reply.

Signed,
Michael VIII
Emperor of the Latins

---

To: Ambassador David Manole of Jedoria
cc: Foreign Minister Dragomir Rotaru,
From: Constantine XX
Subject: Building Bridges
Encryption: Highest

Ambassador Manole,

It is my intention that this communique serve as my response per our meeting the other day. After a long and arduous discussion with those closest to myself and pondering on it alone, I believe, at this time, it is in the best interest of the Senate and People of Latium to accept Jedorian military assistance. I hope that military leaders from our two nations can meet at once so yours may be briefed and brought up to speed on our plans in the war to come.

Sincerely,
Constantine XX