The Fall of The Monolith (Elvarya only)

[Razonica]

Haemia,
Razonica

The capital of the empire shone as a gem of a thick crown. Businesses clung to the city like flies to a corpse. It was a major port, connected to the sea by the Kaemi River. It was a half days trip from a dense forest that was regularly turned into luxury furniture. The grand palace attracted tourists like moths to a light. It was three stories tall, with granite, obsidian, and jade pillars. And it was home to the world's most powerful military installation: Imperial Command Center or the ICC. The ICC was the size of a small university. From there, Razonica spied upon the world. A god frowning on a disobedient people. Soon, however, the tyrant god's throne would fall over, casting Razonica to the wolves below.

Today, Corco Bebbin, ambassador of Tadbu, was meeting with Empress Faenia. Bebbin walked towards the meeting room with the air of a man who believed himself to be the boss of all around him. He sneered at maids as they passed by him, not bothering to hide any of his lust. He was a man driven on his passions, women, power, and drugs, all in unhealthy amounts. Bebbin didn't care if the Imperials liked him. In fact, he was suppose to get him to hate him. So he slapped a few butts as he walked in, spoke rudely to the women. Unfortunately, he didn't get to finish his act before a Razma warrior seized him the throat and dragged him to the meeting. Bebbin liked to think of himself as a boxer. The sexist bastard shouted curses, all berating women, before he was pushed into the meeting with the empress.

The cold eyes that fell upon him made Bebbin smile. Empress Faenia, sovereigness of Razonica, wore a red gown and a golden crown with a screaming crow on the front. The crow made of black pearls. The Lussengardes were known to have used crows in medieval times and onwards to spread disease in enemy forts. Ironic, thought Bebbin, she shall die by her own weapon. "Ah, your Highness, I was just escorted here by your bitch brute. Nice women your have here. Has your bastard sister ridden them yet?" Before Princess Ymira's dating of Adfranan Klye Lonidier, the public believed her to lesbian, or at least bisexual. The empress' eyes betrayed no hint of her animosity. Only irration. "If you sexually harass my staff again, I'll have to castrated and split in twain. I believe my ancestors executed your pathetic tribesmen in a similar way." The ambassador shrugged "Aw, Ms. Faenia, that's all just a joke. My culture is just different than yours." Faenia pointed at him accusingly "If you are wasting my time I'll revoke Tadbu's small amount of autonomy. Right now. Sit down and act like a professional."

Corco Bebbin smiled as he sat down. Empress Faenia laced her fingers together and rested her arms in front of her. "What have you come here for?" she demanded. Bebbin used his practiced answer " To tell you that the gallant people of Tadbu declare their independence." The empress' laughter came easily. Bebbin hated when women had the nerve to dare laugh at him. Of course, Bebbin knew he was suppose to make that happen. The empress reached out to grab the pincher of tea before her. Bebbin jumped up and grabbed it. "Allow me to pour your tea. So you can recover from the shock." Faenia accepted his offer, now smiling. She took the cup and then poured one for him. After sitting down again she chuckled "You declare independence? You're a dense people aren't you? A colony can't just become free. I've been more than understanding. No, it's time for you to become a province. That's how you'll get more freedom."

"Some people don't want to be "free" with imperial troops marching in their streets. Becoming a province wouldn't get rid of martial law. No, that'd take ten more years." Bebbin was at least being sincere with that statement.

Faenia took a sip of the tea. "I assure you it could be worse. Ten more years of martial law before you get more freedom..." Suddenly, the young empress cut off. The tea cup shattered to the ground as the empress' arm fell. Faenia struggled to stand whilst Bebbin laughed.

Stupid! Faenia cursed herself. Of course he'd poisoned her tea. Mother always told her to never take a drink from a foreigner. Now that simple advise was made more real. She tried to scream for her guards, but her words died on her lips. Faenia's face felt hot now. She had to either press the button that would call her guards under her desk, or fire the pistol she had in a hidden pocket in her red dress. "Ah, the witty slut has no more clever words? Tadbuese milita shall attack the imperial governor's palace in two hours. My people will be free now. Ten years isn't long, not when you're dead." Bebbin's taunting made Faenia all the more angry. She had to reach the red button under the table to call her guards or her gun. She pushed her hands to listen. However, her arms refused to move. Then, Bebbin stepped closer and reached towards her chest. "Let's see if you can get me cut in half after what I do to you." As his fingers grabbed at her breasts, Faenia's hand flew up in a swift motion. Her right hand was still reaching for the button, but her left one grabbed her firearm. Bebbin jumped back, surprised to see the empress armed. Faenia managed to squeeze off one bullet. That was all it took.

The doors were flung open, Razma warriors armed with assault rifles rushed in. Bebbin, unfortunately, was armed. Bebbin spun, pulling a glass knife from his sleeve. The blade was not metal, so it as undetectable by metal detectors. It was also thin enough to be not be felt when he was searched by hand. The Tadbuese hurled the knife into the first woman's throat. A second knife flew into the other's eye. The dark skinned man was forced to run, as the door on the other side of the room burst open. The ambassador fled down the hall. Faenia felt herself swaying and her vision going black. One of the guards -a Razonican man- caught her just as the world went black. His urgent cry of "Ma'am!" fell on ears that were barely hearing.

Bebbin sprinted for the exit. He was a remarkably fit man for someone who abused substances. He had been a boy soldier in what seemed like a lifetime ago. That was before the empire ended that practice. Too late for Bebbin to forgive them. A few more guards came after him, but he had taken a gun from a fallen Razma. He shot them with startling accuracy. Just when he was in sight of the end, a man got in front of him. Prince Walter held a raised gun at Bebbin. The ambassador pulled the trigger of his gun, but heard the click of an empty magazine. Walter shouted an order "Get on the ground!" Bebbin nodded and got down. When the prince walked closer to grab his captive, Bebbin turned on the floor. Prince Walter was knocked off his feet by Bebbin's legs. The ambassador sprung on the prince, grabbed the gun and fired. Walter cried out in pain as a bullet ripped into his abdomen. Wounded, the prince delivered a straight jab to Bebbin's face. Using that moment, Walter flipped his dazed opponent to the left. The gun slid away on the marble floor but Walter held onto Bebbin.

The prince gave three more punches to Bebbin before a fist hit him in the nose. Then, a leg kicked him off. Walter hit a table barely able to duck a vase that almost hit him on the head. Bebbin lunged for Walter but the young man rolled to the side. Bebbin caught himself and grabbed onto Walter. Panicked, Walter grabbed at the vase and swung it at Bebbin. The heavy ceramic shattered on the ambassador's head. Bebbin stumbled to the ground, falling on the table, breaking it. Walter grabbed a table leg and sat on top of Bebbin, pinning him. The Tabdbuese man smiled, despite the blood running down his mouth. "Soldiers will eradicate your people from my land. Your empire has fallen o mighty Crow. We-" the men didn't get to finish as Walter drove his improvised club into Bebbin's face over and over. Blood flew every were as wood made flesh and bone cave in. By the time Walter finally regained control, he was looking at a face that looked vaguely human, with bone poking through. Walter turned to the side and coughed up his lunch and some blood.

Viobo,
Tabdu

Milita units were just outside the imperial capital of Tadbu before the planes arrived. Razonican napalm rained down on them, burning the flesh from their bones. The men screamed as they were melted, running around like headless chickens. Some pick-up trucks with machine guns survived and made a run for it. Their gunners aimed up at the planes, vainly trying to shoot them down. They had plunked feathers from the Crow. Now it had come to rip out their eyes.

[Nerodanus]

Drakodia, Nerodanus

Maxim was starting to get fed up with all the recent interviews. He was nearly twenty seven, the leader of a global super power, and still single. Naturally when he went on to do interviews he always intended to bring awareness to issues with Nerodanus, such as helping those still homeless, suffering from PTSD, or children with learning disabilities, to medical issues. But no, it always had to be if he was dating someone, if he was secretly homosexual, or even if he was already married but won't tell people. Many have hinted that they thought he was secretly in a relationship with his good friend Fredrich Von Alestun of Germeria. Maxim did his best to put these rumors down. He had neither the time or the desire to find someone and should he have needed emotional support he had his friends, the few of his family who sided with him at the end of the Civil war, and his secretary, who might as well have been his friend since childhood.

"Oh Premier Maxim, you must tell us what is going on with your love life? We all want to know!" Pleaded the interviewer, Harleen Popzel, an immigrant from Germeria to was part of the humanitarian aid sent to those affected by the massive Battle For Drakodia nearly seven years earlier. Maxim simply shook his head, she was wasting his time when he would rather be doing something productive. "Miss Popzel, I understand that I am very popular among everyone, but I right now have been far too busy assuring the world avoids Nuclear Annihilation between Razonica and Nerodanus. In fact thanks to our cosmonaut I may have another crisis on my hands." Maxim turned to the cameras. "People of Nerodanus I assure you, if anything happens involving my romantic life I will let you all know. But for now please, lets work on improving our home fir..." Maxim was cut off as a man with an earpiece, and a black suit on approached and whispered something in Maxims ear. Standing up he addressed the audience and Harleen. "If you excuse me a matter has come up I must attend to."

Five minutes later, aboard Morskoy One

A series of papers sat before Maxim, his guards, and Andrei Aniti, his Diplomatic Advisor. Maxim took a deep breath in and viewed over the papers one more time. "Alright, so one of the last Razonican Colonies is now rebelling, called Tabdu, attacked and may have killed Empress Faenia." The advisor nodded to Maxim, confirming what he had said before speaking to the Premier. "We await your orders sir. Several generals believe you will take the moment to attack Razoncia, while others are unsure." Maxim waved his hand, dismissing the thoughts. "No. I have no intention to invade Razonica, atleast right now." Maxim took a deep breath. "Lower our DEREST to level three, and find a way for me to communicate with whoever is in charge of Tadbu right now. I am going to support them against the darkness that is Razonican Imperialism."

As the helicopters landed at the Spear of The Neroians, the advisor saluted and shouted "Yes Mr. Premier!" and ran off to do as Maxim had said. Rubbing his temples Maxim made his way to his office.

This is going to give him a headache.

[Peoples Republic of New Scotland]

Edinburgh, New Scotland

George was in his office watching the livestream of the Explorer one re-entry i when his military advisor burst in. "Mr. President there was an incident in Razonica." Exclaimed the Advisor. George paused the stream and turned to address his advisor; "What the hell happened?' The Advisor quickly grabbed the television remote and changed the channel to the official Razonican news channel. On the television was a reporter, standing in Haemia, looking frazzled, police and military were swarming the area. " Early last night Empress Faenia and Prince Walter were hospitalized after the ambassador from Tabdu, Corco Bebbin, poisoned the Empress and shot the prince. Bebbin was captured but not after he killed several of the royal guard. Current information points to this attack being part of a Tabdu independence movement." George turned off the television and turned to his advisor to issue his response, "I want you to gather James and Harry and have them meet me in the Command Center in five minutes, then call up the Razonican ambassador and the head of security for the embassy." The Advisor nodded his head and ran out the door to execute his orders. George looked out the window hoping to come up with a response to the catastrophe. Instead all that came to mind was the words of his predecessor, "There is one situation that can get close to the destruction of nuclear war and that is the collapse of a superpower. If a nation of such profound importance goes then we're all fucked."

5 Minutes later, In the Presidential Emergency Operational Joint Intelligence and Command Center (PEOJICC)
Imperial President George, Minister of War, James Gael, and Minister of Intelligence, Harold Norwan are gathered around a table in the PEOJICC Ambassador to Razonica, Michael O'Dublin and Embassy Chief of security Colonel Thomas Smith on the phone

Imperial President George looked at a satellite map of known Razonican and Neroian troop positions before addressing the Minister of Intelligence, "How has the Razonican military responded?" Norwan focused the map on Razonica; "Our according to satellites, Razonica has mobilized it's air force. Intercepted radio chatter we gathered seems to show that the military is planning on a retaliatory strike on the colonial capital of Tabdu, Viobo." George turned to look at Gael; "James you've worked with the Razonican military before, what do you think this strike will entail?" James pondered the question for a moment before answering. "I see three possibilities. First, if the Empress survived the attack then this is probably an airborne invasion and pacification of Tabdu. The Second possibility is if Faenia died. Then it is likely they would aim to completely destroy Tabdu. It is possible they would utilize their own Chemical, Biological, or maybe even nuclear option to "deal with the problem. The Most likely response though is if a attack on militia in Viobo. Odds are they would use napalm to destroy soft targets and allow them a unoccupied area to land troops." George nodded. O'Dublin spoke up, "Mr. President the situation on the ground here leads me to believe that the military is running the show here. There are soldiers in the street and the Government has enacted Martial law. The populace has not reacted well either. It is my belief that this could ignite a full blown civil war." "Why the hell do you think that?" Asked Gael. "Razonica is a ethnic based empire, The Razma rule over a diverse group of people. But all of the top government positions are off limits to all non Razma. Combine that with increasing distaste in the government and this could be the metaphorical straw to break the camels back." George pondered this information before he turning to his subordinates, "Thomas I want you to enforce our sovereign ground clause. If any foreigner attempt to enter the embassy with out official permission I want you to detain them. If they resist you are authorized to use force. Michael I want you to meet with the Razonican Home Minister and let them know we support their government-" "But sir this gives us the chance to-" Interjected O'Dublin. "Michael just shut the hell up and follow your goddamn orders!" Shouted George before hanging up the phone to the Embassy. "Now Harry I want you to deploy all available NSIA agents to Razonica and Tabdu. I want to be able to know everything that goes on. I also want you to have the Special operations divisions ready." Norwan nodded. "Now James how has Nerodanus responded?" George asked. Gael pulled up Nerodanus on the satellite map. "So far no known response by the Neroians". George sighed. "Thank god. In that case I want you to set the DEFASRPI to level 3 and I want you to begin preparations for a possible conscription." James looked at George and asked, "Are we invading sir?". George replied, "No, not unless things get worse". James pressed further, "What do you mean by worse?" George looked at the map and said, "We will know when it gets worse." He turned to address both ministers, "You are both dismissed." George turned to look at the map of Razonica. He sighed and whispered, "Shit."

[Adfrana]

Harrington Estate
City of Daleford
Capital Province
Southwestern Adfrana
2:43am

The bustling city of Daleford, capital of the Queendom and international trading center for many nations across Elvarya, was unusually quiet this night. The typically packed streets were now only moderately filled, something that rarely happens in the city that never sleeps. Queen Alyssa, Minister of Defense Simon Remington, and a panel of political experts sat around the large darkwood table, papers strown about, empty coffee cups and coffee pitchers filled the remainder. Since 9:43, they've been debating what to do over the Razonican Crisis. Alyssa supported assisting the Empire. Ever since the Newburg Ball, she considered her a good friend and ally. To hear of the news that she was hurt, it infuriated the Queen. Her typical cool-headed, good spirited attitude had all but vanished in the way she spoke to her subjects.

"Your Majesty, I must inform you that any military intervention would draw Neroian attention. If we deploy troops to Razonica, it may spark something much larger and much worse." Said Minister Remington.

"What about the EAC? Where's the Futrellian response, any Nova Zealander outcry?" She still had faith the EAC could do something to assist their largest ally.

"Your Majesty...the EAC can't help us here. The Coalition has been considerably weakened." Said Chief of Staff Markis Mallory.

"To hell with all of them then. I've known how silent the EAC has been over the past few months. No official declarations, reports, sanctions, nothing. It's become nothing but a husk of what it once was. And its something we don't need to be apart of any longer. I'm tired of inaction on our part. We need to find something to do to help them. We can't allow one of our oldest allies to wither like this." She said, so exhausted and so drained.

"Perhaps economical help? Send them a sum of money?" Said Minister Remington.

"Let's get into further contact with the Razonicans before we do something like that. Once we have a clear picture of what the Empire needs, we will do it. Communist threat be damned." Said Chief of Staff Mallory.

[Razonica]

Kaela Milopi Unionist Hospital
Haemia, Razonica

Faenia woke up and moved her arm. Or at least she tried to. The empress of Razonica found that her body felt as if it were a shattered window. The young ruler gasped for relief from her feverish state. Her ears rang and it was hard for her to focus. "Nurse." she croaked softly. A young woman wearing white medical garb and a Unionist Star talked in. She smiled "Empress, you're awake. That's a good sigh that you're recovering." The empress grunted "Where...how long?" The nurse stopped the empress as she tried to push up to stand. "Not long, ma'am, just a few days."

"Days? I must get up!"

The nurse held the empress down again. "Governmental duties have been turned over to General Edmune Laerolk. His is regent now. The empire is in very capable hands." Faenia grabbed the nurse's arm tightly and said weakly "No, not him." Then, her eyes drooped and she slid back into unconsciousness.

Imperial Palace,
Haemia, Razonica

Regent Laerolk stared at the Imperial Council. The council were fifteen people chosen by the monarch to assist in ruling. They could not overrule the monarch. They were only called upon for expert advise only. Laerolk was an arrogant man born of Raz heritage. He was not a Journey Unionist, but many of the zealots adored his nationalist approach to everything. His appointment to the regency by the military and council was decided due to his impressive military record. He had not been the lead general in the Avarice War, but he had cut Vacroaye's supply lines apart a few times. He wielded brutal strikes with a delicate hand. He was a steel man, hard to look at and hard to be taken off his mark.

His voice was like a hammer hitting an anvil "I want our allies to start helping us fund this conflict. Futrellia received our aid in the Avarice War. I want my damn return in investment. Tell the Adfranans to send us money and troops as well. They were too slow to help in the last war." Percival Norma, Chief of Economics, dared to speak up. "Regent Laerolk, if I may, we need more than just money. With the Siolin Isles refusing to pay taxes and failing to export we-" The general's temper lashed out at the economist "I don't care about trade damn you! This empire is made by blood and sweat. Tell the Air Force to bomb the Isles into submission. Kill their local governors. Raze their fields and whatnot-."

"And is it wise to do that?" A calm voice, the voice of Lord Hrathaen Ventarin, interrupted. "The Siolin Isles are our lands. We get a good deal of trade from the Isles. Those exports are most helpful to keeping our empire's coffers full. You can't blow it up without weakening us more. Our debts are getting too great and dire for you to wave guns around like a child." Laerolk's lips twisted in anger "Get out old man." While he was fifty-three and in good health, Hrathaen had white hair dangerously close to out numbering his fine jet black strains. Without a word, the nobleman rose and pushed in his chair. He did not leave yet "I have served this post for thirty years. It is a shame to see a non-Lussengarde rip our nation down. I shall alert the empress at once." As he turned to left, a gunshot rang out. The nobleman's shoulder went forward but he did not fall. Hrathean ducked and then spirited towards the exit, as Laerolk opened fire with a pistol. His guards turned on the council, gunning them without mercy. Hrathean was hit again in the back and he fell. Laerolk spat on the ground and said "Tell the media that Black Lions attacked the council, that Mr. Norma and his peers turned on our eight loyal ones." The regent turned his gun on himself and shot his left arm. He grunted but knew it wasn't major. He knew that if he were unwounded it would appear suspicious. "Clean this up." he ordered "and call me an ambulance. Tell them the Black Lions attacked me."

Viobo,
Tadbu

Viobo was a blessed city for one in Tadbu. It was in the northern tip of the colony. The northern part was about 10% of the colony in landmass, but held most of the wealth. With a population of six million, it was the home of many Razonicans who were from the mainland. Few people dared to go to the "savage cities" to meet the Tadbuese. Despite that, a third of the people who Tadbuese themselves. The Imperial Governor It had a port that commanded regional trade. It had skyscrapers and a stock exchange. Children ran through the streets freely and without a care, ignorant of the threat of warlords. The city square had foreign plants that were well-cared for. They hugged a polished stone statue of an Imperial solider holding the Razonican flag and his rifle aloft towards the heavens. It was a visible sign that the empire ruled these lands. And, of course, 10,000 armed soldiers also served that purpose. The once peaceful air had become stiff with tension. The mirth of youth was halted and locked into safety. Barricades had been erected in narrow streets while wider ones were simply pulled up by military engineers. Snipers and machine gunners adored rooftops and watched the outskirts of the city. For beyond were wind tossed grasslands that were acting as cover for Tadbuese terrorists. The Black Lions were claiming to be bringing "freedom" to the people of Tadbu. For the Imperials, they were an armed threat.

Jureli Yorvon was not a native of Tadbu. His father and grandparents were of Raz and Kalbor ancestry. His mother, however, was Tadbuese. His skin was not as dark as his mothers nor as pale as his father's. Tonight, however, the color of his skin made no difference. He wore the tan and light green uniform of a military policeman. In Tadbu, there were no civil police, only military police. Corporal Yorvon kept his rifle close to him as he watched the wildlands before him ignite in flames. Napalm and bombs turned the grasslands into a pyre for the Black Lions currently attacking the city. They were too far for Yorvon to worry but were too close for him to feel safe. Main battle tanks rolled past his guard station, heading towards the Black Lions. They were hoping to encircle the enemy and kill them off. Jureli hoped they were successful. Not because he feared the disorganizated warlords, but because he was worried that the citizens might start to feel sympathetic towards the enemy.

[Adfrana]

Royal Palace
City of Daleford
Capital Province
Southwestern Adfrana
8:40pm

"I've already requested a special session of Parliament to discuss how to deal with the Crisis in Razonica. I understand you and the Empress are good friends, Your Majesty, but to devote Adfranan forces to keeping the government in rule? Beg my pardon, My Queen, but you overruled me once to deploy troops to Vacroaye during the Avarice War. I cannot allow it to happen once more. There is a delicate balance between Prime Minister and Monarch, and if we-" Prime Minister Mathers was interrupted as the Queen stopped right in front of him, turning to look him in the eyes.

"You forget your place, David. I am Queen, daughter of King Callin, and he would not stand for someone to undermine his rule." Queen Alyssa said.

"Adfrana is no longer an absolute monarchy, Your Majesty. You don't hold all of the power like befor-"

"Yet, I still retain the power to dissolve the Parliament and render your position extinct, Prime Minister."

"And the people will turn their backs on you. They may love you now, but take away their right to vote, their right to representation, and there will be Civil War. The people have been spoiled on our government, and they will die before they give it up." Prime Minister said out of turn, forgetting that the Queen had the power to arrest the Prime Minister as well. While the Military and Police forces are owned by the Parliament, her Queensguard are her family's. An ancient organization of warriors devoted to protect the Monarch of Adfrana. Their order dates back to the 1300s.

"Your Majesty, I apologize for the way I spoke." He said, bowing his head. Forgetting the ancient place of the Monarch of Adfrana.

"Your Majesty. Prime Minister. Your presence is requested in the Onyx Room." Said one of the Palace secretaries, dispatched to find the Queen and Prime Minister. Not a word was spoken between the two as they descended down four flights of stairs to the Onyx Room, the Palace's secure strategic operations center, installed twelve years ago for sensitive security missions and matters that concerned national security. It was now divided between Operations and Intelligence. Intelligence gathered reports as they came, and Operations debated on how to handle them.

They approached the large double doors from the long hallway, two Queensguard stood present, quickly saluting to their Monarch and returning to ready positions. As the Queen entered, the Generals and Advisers stood up, saluting to their Queen, who motioned them to sit as quickly as they stood.

"Your Majesty, Gabriel Falkus, Intelligence Commander for Onyx. We received new intel from Razonica. As she read the report, she was devastated at what Falkus brought.

"The entire Imperial Council...." She said, laying the report down gently and folding her hands in front of her.

"We are still determining how Black Lion operatives could have infiltrated the Imperial Palace, especially after the recent attack on the Empress. By all accounts, the Palace should be the second heaviest defended building in Razonica. The security systems, armed guards, fences, guard dogs, they should have detected an attack like this fairly quickly, possibly even before it was carried out. It is documented that Imperial Regent Laerolk was present during the attack and sustained a none-life threatening wound to the shoulder. Civilians reported seeing the Council walk in and the doors close behind them. Then gunshots." Said Cmdr. Falkus.

"It doesn't make sense. A special session of the Imperial Council would retain the highest security presence possible. Without the Empress, the government would try its best to protect them. Breaking into the Palace seems much too difficult, even for our Queensguard. No frontal assault, no evidence of infiltration. The media claims that Chief of Economics Percival Norma was the culprit. I had several talks with the Chief of Economics and he never threw me for a terrorist. He was loyal to the Empress and the Empire. It would be very hard, nigh impossible, to buy out his loyalty or threaten him. Your Majesty, I believe there is more to this story." Said Deputy Chief of Staff Major General Steven Cotter.

"I must disagree with the Deputy Chief of Staff. Security in the Palace was at an all time high before this. The Neroian threat to Razonican sovereignty had already caused it's security to heighten. The fact that these terrorists hospitalized the most powerful person in Razonica only means that these Black Lions are capable of anything and capable of attacking anywhere. They have the resources, they have the agents, and they have the ideology that people get behind. No amount of security details, steel walls, and attack dogs will protect anyone from attack from within." Said Director of the Royal Interior Security Agency Arthur Manderly, the man in charge of keeping the Adfranan homeland safe.

"Enough bickering. The fact of the matter is that we need international cooperation. The Empress is incapacitated, the Imperial Council murdered. The Razonican Empire is growing weaker and weaker and if we do not intervene, she will fall. Whoever takes control of the ashes after that may not be our ally." She halted her sentence for a moment as the panel of officers waited for the Queen's decisions.

"We do not have time to bicker and choke on indecision. As Queen, I can do what it necessary to assist our allies. Prime Minister Mathers. Would you consider going to Razonica?" the Prime Minister seemed to be blindsided by the question.

"Your Majesty I.....Yes. Yes, of course. I will reach out and request my presence there be accepted. If so, I will leave for Razonica by tomorrow afternoon." He said.

"Good. Once you are there, I need you to check on the state of the Empress. I need to know how she is doing. Get me President Underwood on the phone." She said.

[Tadbu]

Benhaska, Capitol
President Al-Hamir Raskneran's Mansion
Tadbu

The only obstacle in the way of Tadbu autonomy was Viobo city. Viobo was a upstart city during the 1800's built with the blood of the Tadbu people. The Razonicans arrived in the region known as Tadbu about 200 years ago. They said that they wanted to educate the less fortunate and share with them the technology they had discovered. At the time, Tadbu was ruled by one Chieftain, who showed hospitality to the Razonicans, but had his suspicions about their real intentions. The Razonicnas shared their knowledge, however wanted something in return for their gifts. They wanted the resources to fuel their growing empire. Knowing that the Razonicans were not asking, the chieftain knew that resistance was futile. He was going to meet with the Razonican representative the next day to surrender Tadbu when his brother killed him in his sleep. His brother declared war on the Razonicans and started a war that had lasted to the present day. Even though the warlords of the past lost horribly hundreds of years ago, Tadbuese blood still boils at the mention of Razonican occupation. After Razoniza had won, the Tadbuese were forced to work for little pay and used to harvest the lands resources. Viobo became the largest port city in Tadbu. Viobo was used for exporting all of the precious resources to the mainland. It also received many resources and optimistic wealthy men believing they build their own monopolies. Since then, Viobo had the been Imperial capitol of all Tadbu. The city quickly grew from a small shanty port into a powerhouse within the decade. In the present, the booming city of 6 million was dominantly Razonican in nationality. Viobo had always stood as a monument of imperial might in the eyes of Razonica and a sign of constant repression to the Tadbuese. No Tadbuese would shed a tear seeing the entire city in ruins. If violence was what it would take to gain independence from Razonica, Tadbuese were willing to spill their blood.

"My fellow leaders of Tadbu, we have not always seen eye to eye, however I did not invite you here to fight amongst ourselves. We have an enemy that is larger than any of
us" President Al-Hamir Raskneran The Tadbuese warlords stood around a large table on the middle of a great hall. The room was adorned with large Tadbu sculptures and art. The walls were blanketed in tapestries sewn with golden thread. The room was well lit by three huge windows with velvet drapes around the edge. A thin layer of dust could be scene laying on the floor and floating in the room. A large pool could be scene through the windows, however it seemed that it had not been used in a long time. Two armed guards stood at ready next to huge black mahogany doors. "Razonica has ruled Tadbu for far too long. Many of Tadbuese leaders have been killed off by the Razonican pigs, we are all that is left. They have sapped us of all that we are worth. I can barely keep my wealth and house from the bastards. I feel that you are having the same troubles with this occupation, yes? Some of you have already engaged the Razonicans near Viobo, but will need reinforcements and more firepower. What I called you here today is to discuss is an alliance. In our past, the warlords of Tadbu killed each other and allowed for us to easily be taken over. I hope that we will not make the same mistakes. Razonica is at its weakest in centuries. I feel it is a sign from our god to destroy the shackles of slavery and form a free Tadbu! This is the will of All Powerful to defeat the heathens and rebuild the Holy Tadbu empire to worship All Powerful again. We can combine our armies and rally the people to battle. There are also many enemies of Razonica who would gladly supply us with advanced weaponry in order to fight. We can either claim victory from the Razonican empire like All Powerful has proclaimed or allow their failing empire to pull us down. What say you?" Raskneran said. He looked around the room at the other chieftains.

"Aye"
"Aye"
"Aye!"
...
"NO! If we try to unite we will be crushed once again. We will all lose everything and be executed. Even together, we are outnumbered and outgunned. If we are to salvage anything from this conflict we must stay divided and hide" cried out one of the warlords. The president looked at the man with disgust but quickly hid it. "Very good idea" right as the president finished his sentence, he painted the floor with the man's brain matter. The sound of the gun discharge resonated across the room, the gun still smoking.
"Servants! Clean this up! Is there anyone in this room still that would also like to disagree. I will happily spatter your blood? No? Good."

[Germeria]

Aelstun, Capital of the Germeria
von Aelstun Imperial Palace
Southwestern Germeria
8:30 p.m.

Friedrich sat in his study, once his father's, finishing his dinner and drinking wine as he looked over administrative reports and petitions from lesser nobles. His once staunch allies on the electoral council were continually reminding him of the obligation he made for their support, and the pressure was starting to mount as more and more Princes started stirring trouble in the Diet. And to add to that, the duchy of Baiern was still experiencing the effects of GR-83, though it has thankfully been quarantined and combated and now only the initial site of Walden remains infected.

A knock on the door made him look up from his reports as a servant opened the door from the outside and Friedrich's Chief of Foreign Affairs stepped in, covered in sweat and out of breath.

"Herr Feuerbrald, what brings you here so late in the day?" said Friedrich. Hans Feuerbald quickly made his way to the Kaiser's desk and turned on the TV facing the two men and turned to a news channel.

'Razonican Military Bomb Rebel Forces; Regent Revokes Autonomy' flashed across the screen as images of napalm on fighters appeared on the stream. Both men remained quiet as the reporter on the screen explained what was happening, but the emperor was too caught up in thought to pay attention.

"I knew the empress was in critical condition, but it seems the situation has worsened far faster than I thought. Call the cabinet and bring them to the Wolf Bunker."

With that the two men departed, one going to awaken his colleagues and the other to the operation headquarters of the empire.

---

Der Wolf Bunker, Ost Preußen
Southern Germeria
11:43 p.m.

Friedrich sat patiently as the various members of his cabinet entered the room and took their seats at the large table in the center of the meeting room, with the various men and women in different stages of weariness and fatigue. There was only one unoccupied seat, which belonged to his uncle Randar who lived outside of the capital and was viewing the session through a video feed.

The Wolf Bunker. Originally a get away resort made in 1832 by Kaiser Franz Eduard, it was transformed into a private bunker by Kaiser Hans Johan with the creaion of an underground bunker in 1876. Since then every successive emperor has added to the complex with various new renovations and additions until it got to where it is now, an extensive underground complex that could withstand a nuclear strike and was the organizational head of the empire in emergencies.

Once everyone was seated, Friedrich turned on the television, the huge screen replaying the same news feed Hans and Friedrich had seen hours earlier. Everyone watched the screen with varying levels of shock or interest.

"That was ten hours ago, in the Razonican colony of Tadbu. I need options and opinions to deal with this. Thoughts?" said Friedrich.

"Though alarming and worrisome, this issue with the Tadbuese is a domestic affair and doesn't concern us. We should stay away from Razonican disputes," said Friedrich Dorstfuller, the Secretary of the Interior. A thin, wiry man with a balding head and a reedy voice, he was one of the oldest men in the room and had three decades worth of experience managing the various territories in Germeria.

"Nonsense! What effects Razonica effects us. We could use to our advantage and strengthen relations between our countries." That was Rachel van Gelre, his Secretary of Diplomacy. While Feuerbald was the head of all news and developments relating to foreign countries, Rachel was the diplomat that coordinated the various diplomats and officials in foreign lands.

"We could lend support to these rebels, equipment, advisers, even troops should we deem it necessary," said Ulrich von Verden, the Secretary of War. He was the youngest of them all, aside from Friedrich himself, but had proven himself in multiple joint operations and deployments as an able tactician and top tier organizer.

"While Razonica has never been the most cooperative friend to the empire, that does not make them enemies a priori. The requirement to be an enemy hasn't changed to not being a friend in the years I've been away from the capital, has it?" spoke Randar. His question was pointed to Friedrich, and he didn't miss the underlying tone in his uncle's voice. While Randar himself wasn't in the cabinet he had the top adviser spot in Friedrich's court, and Friedrich trusted no one more than him to give him honest advice and criticisms.

"Of course not Uncle. My uncle is correct though; While not always at the friendliest of terms, it would be disastrous for the local populations should Razonica splinter at the seams at this stage of unrest. If they do fall, it should be done peaceably and with fair terms. But this talk is moot so long as the empress lives." He turned to Ulrich.

"Secretary Verden, I want Special Operations Group Tarton on standby for deployment, link them up with Special Operations Group Twelve. I want Twelve to scour the major cities for whereabouts of the empress and watch for signs of any dissent from internal factions. Tarton will be on standby for deployment should any major action be taken. Director Skorzeny," he said, turning to the smoking man at the far end of the table. Oskar Skorzeny was a middle aged man in his late 30's, though he looked closer to twenty five, and was the head of the Reichs Sicherheit Spionage, Germeria's espionage agency. At the mention of his name, he turned his head away from the news report.

"I want you to coordinate your agents in Tadbu and give me actionable intelligence on the situation, understood?" He nodded mutely.

"Alright, Hans keep me updated on develpments, Rachel, send an envoy to the regent expressing our sympathies for the recent unrest, better to build bridges than destroy them for now. Everyone has their orders, any questions? Good." At that everyone began to leave the room as Friedrich continued to watch the various reports filter in.

If all goes well, the Guard needn't even involve itself. But if worst comes to worst and they splinter, who picks up the pieces?

[Futrellia]

The Federal Capitol Building
Presidential Planning Room

---

With the deteriorating situation in Razonica and Adfranan pressure to act, President Underwood could not stay quiet any longer. For too long has the Federal Republic stayed quiet on the international stage, and now, it could not wait any longer. They stayed quiet during the Empress's hospitalization, and now the Imperial Council's demise.

At 4:36am, a transfer through EAC supply chains allowed for the balance of 1.5 billion in Futrellian Credits to be given to the Imperial Treasury for use in quelling the rebellion that was occurring in their Colony. During that transfer, the Federal Department of Defense ordered the FNV Armstrong Battle Group to deploy just outside of Razonican sovereign waters and inform the Razonican Navy that they were there to assist if they were needed.

The 12th Armored Brigade of the 25th Armored Division on the East Coast of Futrellia was ordered to stand by for possible deployment operations to the Razonican homeland and to closely coordinate with Imperial military operations in case of heightened security measures.

Presidential Media Room
6:43pm

The President stood at the pedestal, looking down at his notes he was planning to use to address the nation during this time of dire need for the Razonican Empire. He shifted through the papers, finding the most important facts and sentences he was going to say first, then open the room up to questioning.

"Mr. President, we're ready when you are." Said one of the Federal News bigwigs. The President took a breath in and nodded quickly. The light on the cameras lit up, and the cameramen motioned that they were rolling.

"To the Futrellian people, whom I serve as President, I have come to speak today of the Razonican Crisis. As most, if not all, of you know, Empress Faenia was fatally poisoned by a Tadbuese terrorist, who was terminated by the quick reactions and brutal efficiency of Prince Walter. Never in a million years did I truly believe something this awful, horrendous and unforgivable could happen in Razonica. Since the Avarice War, I always knew the Razonicans were a tough people. A compassionate, dedicated country with a strong Empress. To see what it has happened to it has caught the attention of Futrellia and her allies. First the Empress, now the Imperial Council, god help their souls. The Empire as we know it is crumbling. It is something we cannot and will not ignore. The Federal Republic has already wired a significant amount of funds to the Empire to be used to help quell this rebellion and crush the insurgency. The Armstrong Battle Group has been deployed to the border of Razonican waters to request that the Federal Navy assist them if they need them. With the EAC's influence and efficiency at an all time low, it is important that we now stand shoulder to shoulder and unite to help the Empire to her feet. The room is now open." That last bit turned the rabid Media dogs loose and they howled loudly in the room, shouting "Mr. President!" to try to get their attention.

"Yes, you." He said, pointing to a young woman, a girl with dark olive skin, piercing green eyes, and jet black hair.

"This question is concerned with the Imperial Council. The Imperial Palace is one of the most highly secured places in the world. The poisoning of Empress Faenia, has only helped in making it stronger. The chance of Black Lion insurgents infiltrating the Palace has been debated as very low and near impossible. Is there any information that points to the Council deaths as being an inside job from someone who has higher power than any of the Council members?" She said, ready to write down any notes.

"There has been no indication that there was any sort of inside job, except for Chief Norma. Next question." He said, quickly appointing another Media speaker after her.

"Mr. President, with the Armstrong Battle Group deployed, many are claiming that this will agitate CU members Renova and New Scotland. Comments?"

"This is an entirely EAC issue. This is one that comes from within the country, and will be dealt with by Razonica and the EAC and will in no way impact the Crimson Union's sovereignty." He motioned for one more question.

"Mr. President, is there any chance that Tadbu could be released as a Razonican colony and established as an independent country?"

"I believe those chances flew out the window once the Empress was poisoned. What happens to any colony that poisons their Empress and murders the entire Imperial Council? I don't need to answer that. No more questions."

[Peoples Republic of New Scotland]

Edinburgh, New Scotland

George hadn't been seen in public for several days after the assignation attempt on Empress Faenia. He once again summoned Minister Norwan to discuss a possible plan from the Minister of intelligence.

In the Presidential Emergency Operational Joint Intelligence and Command Center (PEOJICC)
Imperial President Georgeand Minister of Intelligence, Harold Norwan are gathered around a table in the PEOJICCne

George stared intently at a map of Tabdu before speaking up, "I want to take an official stance on what happened in Tabdu last night."

"You mean the Napalming?" Norwan asked.

"Of course I mean the fucking Napalming!" George paused for a minute attempting to regain composure before continuing, "I'm sorry Harry I didn't mean to snap at you, it's just I've been going over files for days now and I haven't come any closer to figuring out how to respond to this attack without triggering a major diplomatic incident. The fucking lunatic acting as regent isn't helping either." Norwan looked solemnly at him before speaking up.

"Sadly sir I have some new information that won't ease that decision. We have some unconfirmed reports that Laerolk may have been responsible for the attack on the Imperial Palace. I must, however, stress that these reports are, as of now, unconfirmed."

"Shit." George muttered, looking down at the many incident reports strewn across the table. He looked at Norwan before pointing at Tabdu on the map. "I want you to insert a group of NSFIA agents in Tabdu. I want to know what is going on on the ground before I side with either party." Norwan gave a sly half-smile before nodding his head and walking out of the room. George turned away to stare intently at documents left behind by the minister. George sat down to read the papers. He spent at least an hour going through the documents before getting to the last line; "It is the recommendation of the NSFIA that the Imperial President contact the Premier of Nerodanus before conducting any possible large-scale operations." George stood up, walked over to a PA system and called his secretary; "I need you to get me in contact with the Premier of Nerodanus. Maxim and I need to have a talk."

[Plyric]

Grumhelwale, Plyric
Plyric National Parade-grounds
Royal Booth #2

The Capital city of Plyric is in process of one of it's national parades, showing off many floats, massive balloons, and the finest soldiers that had served the Plyrican army during it lifetime. Lucius and Gallius are up in Royal booth watching the parade going on as they talk about domestic politics. "I can't believe Joseph cut the security budget down by 25%, does he believe that we are that safe? What about the liberation group, you know, the terrorist in our fair lands?" Gallius says as he points at the float showing the many prisoners, some being flogged for their crimes. Lucius just looks at Gallius and shakes his head, "Brother, you worry too much, Joseph is just trying to help with the budget which can be put into other things, like the science division or more for infrastructure". Gallius gets up and walks towards the edge of the booth and looks upon the millions of citizens who came to see the wondrous parade. As Gallius sits back down, Joseph comes walking to the booth with a very strange look on his face, "Sirs, you may need to hear about this, and we can't speak here". "What is wrong Joseph, tell me now!" Gallius says as he pops out of his chair in fright. Joseph points towards to the door, "We can not speak here right now, all I can say is that it may lead to...". Lucius stands up and looks at Joseph, "What? what do you mean? Are you talking about a possible war?". "Let us go please, we need to speak elsewhere. The Military HQ would be a safe place to speak, I'll call the royal guards to escort you there" Joseph says as he walks out the room.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Location Unknown, Plyric
Military Headquarters
Communication room

Lucius and Gallius enters the room as many people are hard at work. Gallius notices that many news reports are going on live and some are on repeat, "What's going on? Why does one headline mentions Razonica?". Lucius and Gallius sits down at a large table, as they situate themselves, the advisers takes the other empty chairs. "Which bad news doe you want to hear first?" Gallio, the war adviser, says as he looks at Lucius. Lucius looks around and notices the things that Gallius noticed already, "What's going on with Razonica?". Gallio looks over at one of the monitors playing the repeated news break and looks back at Lucius, "The Empress is heavly injured, after a attempt on her life. It was done by a man from Tadbu and that he was finished off when he tried killing the prince as well, I think". Gallius breaks his attention away from the monitors, "What do you mean I think? Are you sure that the Empress and The Prince is alright?". "We tried getting in contact with our ambassador there, but the phone lines were full, presuming that their allies were getting to them first, so we don't really know, besides that a man from Tadbu tried taking the Empress life and paid for it with his. But that isn't the worse of our problems, I'll let Pallius tell you that part." Gallio says as he puts his head on the table, he shows signs of heavy stress and had seems to not have a break yet, since all of the problems began. Pallius hands Lucius a folder and clears his throat, "Nerodanus also received the news and Maxim is deciding to send supplies to Tadbu to help them for support, which means that he's supporting the faction against Razonica". Lucius flips through the papers and close the folder ehn he heard of his ally supporting Tadbu, "Honestly, I wouldn't find that surprising if it had been a surprise, Nerodanus and Razonica had always hated each other, and I can't even understand why, beside them trying to stroke their own power stick at each other. Other than that, what are you trying to propose?". Pallius takes the folder back and clears his throat again, "The counsel spoke about this before we decided to bring you and Gallius along, and that we may need to do something, we can do what Nerodanus says to do and support them, wait for Germeria to respond and do what they do, or just leave the Crimson Union. We honestly do not have the manpower to fight a war that may last more than 2 years, and when two superpowers collides, it will take longer than 2 years, we'll be scrapping the barrel by then if we participate in this possible war".

Gallius looks at Pallius and then at Lucius with horror in his eyes, "Are you sure this can be war, I can't....I can't keep myself together if we go to war". Lucius pats Gallius on the back laughing, "He said possible war, not guaranteed war you silly Jackass. But to be serious, I want to see who attacks first before I decide to be called into a war, if Nerodanus attacks first, I'll might or might not be within the Crimson Union anymore, but if Razonica attacks Nerodanus first, I'll join into the war with volunteers first and then might mobilize for a larger scale war , after today we'll need to begin prepping for this, even if it just a false flag. I'm afraid to announce this, but we are now in G.I.N.T Level 3 adn that all people of Plyric shall go through drills every once in a while, just to keep this threat fresh in their minds. C'mon brother, we need to get back to our place, this will be the longest wait we'll have, or at least what Germeria may do within the Union itself". Lucius and Gallius leaves the room ith Armed escort and is being escorted back to Grumhelwale, to announce the new G.I.N.T level to the populace.

[Razonica]

Imperial Crypt, Imperial Palace,
Haemia, Razonica

Hrathean rolled off his stomach to find himself surrounded by the corpses of the Imperial Council. The smell of gasoline made his stomach do back-flips. The older lord sat up, coughing as the pain of his injuries returned. For an instant, he couldn't remember what had happened. Then, his memory rushed back to him in a torrent of intensity. Being fired, taking two bullets, gunfire released on unarmed civil servants. Lord Hrathean stood up, using the wall as a crutch. The wall was made of rock, not neatly cut. It was earthly and unadorned. But what scared him most was the armored skeleton embedded in the wall.

The former soldier's twisted smile was yellowed from centuries of disregard. His armor was so old, the metal was rusted and crumbling into dust. His arm was out in salute, an open hand, palm up, pointing to the floor. He was an Imperial Guardsmen. The wall was lined with dozens of skeletal sentries, grinning in their armor. As a boy, visits to the Imperial Crypt had terrified him. Up until the 1860s, every single Imperial Guardsmen was buried within the Imperial Palace. So I am dead. Why else are the dead laughing at me? he wondered quietly. He touched the plate-mail of the soldier and recoiled as the metal popped and fell to the ground. The echo of the metal rang in his ears with terrible foreboding.

"Hey! What was that?" a voice called. Hrathen spun to see the beams of flashlights approaching him. With a sigh, the aging lord dropped to the earth and held his breath. Two soldiers approached the bodies with rifles in hand. "Well, what was it?" one urged. The other looked around "Who the hell cares. These old bones are always falling apart. A fine metaphor of our fallen, crumbling to dust as is our empire." The spark of a lighter made Hrathean's stomach churn. The solider holding it grumbled "Why do we have to dispose of the bodies? We are missing the victory of our general over the Lussengardes. Right now, he's about to end their reign." The words of the soldiers cut deeper than blades into Hrathean. Treason of the most heinous sort. Hrathean's breathing became ragged. The sparks stopped. "Do you hear that?" one soldier demanded the other. Hrathaen knew he had to strike now while his strength was still with him.

With a cry of anger, the ex-Imperial Scout kicked his leg up into the balls of the first man. In the next instant, Hrathean sprung up despite his age and did a round-house kick into the second soldier's face. The lord grabbed the dazed man around the throat and squeezed and tiwsted, using his training as a special forces scout to breath the neck of the traitor. The first man had recovered somewhat and raised his assault rifle. Hrathean stepped past the barrel and drove his palm into the nose of his foe. With a crack and a scream, Hrathean knew it was broken. The old lord grabbed the rebel's shoulder, holding him still while he drove his fist into the man's sternum, then his ribs, and finally his throat. The dead man fell, coughing and choking for air that he could never draw again. Hrathean picked up a weapons and gazed back at the first skeleton. The dead man's smile seemed warmer somehow and the old man was less uneasy. Afterall, he had just killed men working to undermine the line they had died serving. "Don't worry comrade" he whispered "I'll save those old Crows."

Kaela Milopi Unionist Hospital
Haemia, Razonica

Prince Walter watched the regent's speech from a TV screen. His bullet wound still prevented him from assuming any royal duties, since he had just gotten out of surgery. Today, he had been allowed to be wheeled down to watch the regent speak. His family's most loyal guards, the Imperial Guardsmen, watched him. There were ten in total just in the room. Sixteen more waited outside. A total of three hundred fifteen men guarded the palace. And they had a new vendetta against the Tadbuese making them more careful. He was interested in what Laerolk had to say, after all, when he became the reigning lord until his sister recovered, General Laerolk would be his only Imperial Councilmen.

Regent Laerolk had chosen to wear a military uniform. He was even wearing a cavalry sword will a pearl handle. That struck Walter as odd, regents and monarchs did not wear military uniforms. The general was standing but behind him sat Prince Reio, Walter's younger brother. Poor Reio looked all nervous and shy from all the cameras. He was almost hiding in his vast emerald green cape. The general smiled when he began to speak "My countrymen, today I bring great news! The war against Tadbu shall end soon. I am ready and willing to annihilate our treacherous colony with our superior military might and the superiority of our race's intelligence." Walter's pulse quickened. What is he doing? he thought. It was no secret the man was a proud Raz, but what was this talk of superiority?

"My countrymen, the Raz race forged an empire that now is our great nation. Those of you who are non-Raz have been granted a spot in our family through your service to this empire. Together we are one people, though our races our different. Together, our races are stronger than all others. Communism is our great threat, not these black animals of Tadbu. Nerodanus has sent soldiers with the disgusting blood of Tadbu to fight with their animal people. The Neroians are plotting our downfall! They wish to destroy our empire. This empire is a gift from the Ever-Parents. We are the chosen Holy People. And for too long the Lussengardes have whored for the world, giving up our power for peace!"

General Laerolk drew his sword, his face twisted in zealous fever. "We shall end their line like the rotten tree that it is!" The man grabbed Reio and in a single motion, decapitated him. "NO!" Walter screamed as his eight year old brother's body was flung off the balcony. The general's voice rose higher "All will bow to Razonica! No more peace! No more schemes! Our people shall eradicate all nations who don't serve our Holy Race! Kill all who are different, slay the stranger! Raz and our chosen ally races are the only ones who deserve life! This is the word of our Ever-Parents! We will-"

The TV went static as the sound of chaos spread. Gunfire roared in the streets as Laerolk's men opened fire into crowds of people. Walter knew that those people were standing where tourists were welcomed to sit. And now it had become a bloodbath. Then, Guardsmen appeared, firing back at the traitors, shielding the tourists. Police forces made a shield wall to keep back Laerolk's men, firing pistols and shotguns at those who dared to get close. Walter's men grabbed him from his wheelchair and carried him towards the door. "It's not safe sir!" one shouted "They're attacking the hospital!" In the hallway, Walter saw his sister being carried by her own guards. "Walter, I called the Futrellians and told them to land their troops in our port. Our cousin is bringing the Razmans. Help is coming!" Faenia called to her brother. "Where is our sister!" Walter shouted as they were carried to an armored car. Ymira was visiting Adfrana, so only one other remained. Faenia answered "Vienna was taken to safety just before the speech. I tried to get Reio but was too late. Lord Hrathean warned me." Their conversation died as they were forced into the armored car. The driver sped off, just as the Guardsmen turned to face a riot of people, armed with their firearms chanting "No more peace!"

[Kaladia]

Empire's End

We knew a day such as this would happen. The heavy, sogged roofing of a crumbling home caving in on itself. We were all too prepared for it, just as we had been for generations. We expected the unexpected.

–THOMAS CASSINIO
PRIME MINISTER OF THE IMPERIAL CABINET (2013-)
ROYAL CABINET MEETING ON AUGUST 21, 2017

August 22, AD 2017

Strategic Intelligence Command Headquarters
Lower Compound, Mount Kysus Complex
The St. Thaldaesius Mountains
Imperial Dominion of the Kaladian Empire
Elvarya

Silence...exhaustion...anticipation...opportunity. These were the feelings that the men and women of the Strategic Intelligence Command, Mount Kysus Complex were feeling as the Prime Minister arrived. From the international perspective, the world saw Kaladians going about their day to day, putting forth the social media concern that many other people of the world presented, such as standing for Razonica, prayers are with Faenia, and Tyranny would be silenced. The Emperor had little time for such tedious concerns. In fact, he didn't care about much of anything. Emperor Titus Minea VIII had ruled for 79 peaceful years, and as so, the Kaladian Empire flourished economically, militarily, and politically. On his best days in his 87 years, he utilizes his wheelchair to maneuver through the large, empty halls of the Aula Caesarea, or Imperial Hall, ancestral home of all Emperor's since 1723. On his worse days, he sleeps, not able to obtain the strength to lift a finger. Kaladian succession of the Crown was very clear, it would pass to his son, Casus Minea should Emperor Titus die. Until then, unable to perform his duties, the Crown required his wife, Empress Consort Hylia Minea, be ruler in his stead, using his authority. She was the figurehead of the Empire, the People's Idol, the Peasant's Messiah, men and women adored the Crown under Emperor Titus Minea, a man of fair hand, cool head, and a unnatural ability to persuade and negotiate. But in the eyes of the Government, the Senate and Representative Assembly, the Prime Minister held all of the cards. Prime Minister Cassinio knew who to ally with and who to turn their back on, whose wrist to twist, who's neck to break. He was the difference between a quiet, respectful Imperial Cabinet, and an enraged council of traitors and usurpers who would take the Emperor's head should they get the chance. For the most part, he forced the Cabinet to keep their mouths shut, head high, and smiles up. The previous Prime Minister did the same, and the previous, since the beginning of Titus's reign. The Emperor was the Sword and Shield, and the Prime Minister was the Quill and Dagger. What the Sword could not kill, the Dagger would slay with one strike. What the Shield could not defend against, the Quill would halt in a single letter. The Balance had been in place for a long time, and the Empire was satisfied. Like a fat Lion, the Empire did not want for blood, for oil, for domination. It simply wanted....to be. All except for the Prime Minister.

The men and women of the information center, cloaked in suits, combed and brushed hair, each wearing a pendant on their suit that marked their involvement in the S.I.C., a white dagger, black wings at the hilt. For years they were the Military's covert intelligence agency. Where the Imperial National Intelligence Agency could not go, the Strategic Intelligence Command boldly breached. Now, they were the Prime Minister's own little club. The man arrived, his suit, neatly pressed, his salt and pepper hair slicked back, the wrinkles upon his older face had been smoothed out by lotions he applied earlier in the morning.

"Any updates on the Razonican Empire?" He said, the same tone of authority in his words that he used all of the time, giving him a deathly intimidating aura about him.

"An attack at Kaela Milopi Unionist Hospital in Haemia. The Regent Laerolk has openly attacked the Lussengarde family by executing Prince Reio Lussengarde. The remaining Lussengardes have fled from the Hospital to an undisclosed location. The scene left behind was....disturbing." The woman speaking was Chief Intelligence Officer Laena Dantius, former Imperial Army officer, INIA field agent, and now, working in the employ of the Prime Minister. She was highly recommended from those who watched her work. She was cunning, ruthless, and stopped at nothing to accomplish her mission, of which he had none, because they were all sealed and burned, classified under Onyx Clearance, a Clearance level not even the Emperor knew about. Her red hair flowed out a bit below her shoulders, something that only she could get away with, considering the strict dress code.

"The Razonican Raven devours it's own wings while the world watches. Intervening would send the world a message. Just imagine the symbolism the press would use. "The White Eagle and the Black Raven." What a tale that could turn to be. Kaladia has the military, the economy, the people's goodwill to end this conflict in Razonica. More than the Futrellians and Adfranans could hope to do." He said, staring up intently at the various Razonican news agencies reporting on the chaos enveloping the country.

"You could do it, sir. Twist the Empress Consort's arm a bit, you could have the people begging for war. Twist the Minister of Defense's arm a bit, you could deploy all five field armies. Quite a massive response, but it'll solve their problems in a week's time." Said CIO Dantius, addressing some paperwork from the central table next to the Prime Minister. Cassinio looked at her, questioning whether or not her antagonizing words were suggestive or manipulative.

"Alas, I'd rather watch how it plays out. We did so with the Avarice War and we gained tremendous advantages. Perhaps the fall of their empire may not be as doomsday-ish as some people make it out to be. I'm leaving now. If any new information turns up, you know how to find me." He said, turning to face his guards and the door behind them.

"You only just arrived. Don't care to stay a bit?" She said nonchalantly. She had feelings for him since they first met three years ago during a Cabinet Meeting to address pirate attacks in the Orvosic Sea, no matter how convincing she was with the "I could care less attitude".

"I was actually on my way to Cassada from Atticar. I had to visit the Minister of State's sickly daughter, make a good impression on him, reassure him that I'm not trying to dissolve the useless position he obtained from being a personal friend with the Minister of Agriculture. Gods be good, the position will be struck from the Cabinet at the next Senate meeting." He said, ending the conversation with a friendly wink, departing the room.

The Prime Minister was now late for his appointment with Minister of National Security Thomas Vectin to discuss contingencies in place for a number of possible outcomes from this international unrest. He would need to board his private jet and depart the Complex's runway within the hour to avoid having to reschedule. He had a bright, shiny reputation to uphold, of course.

[Poland-Lietuva]

Sobek, Poland-Lietuva
Captial City
Aug. 23 8:00AM

Jonas Sitkoski sat at his desk on another cold morning in Sobek. He has been working days with little sleep trying to figure out how to complete the empires democracy. Paper and texts with information on other nations governments fill his desk. After reading another page of a book about the Allied States of Germeria Vice President Linas Broż and Nation General Lech Róg burst through the door.

"I have told all of you a million times to knock before entering my office. I hate being interrupted with my studies."

Broż, with slight hesitation in his voice, says, "Sir, we just received word from our intelligence sector that Razonica is being plunged into a civil war. There was an attempted assassination on the princess of the nation and the eldest prince is wounded as well. They are both in medical care and it seems they will recover. This chaos was caused by their colony of Tadbu. General Laerolk has been appointed Regent because the next in line, Prince Reio, isn't old enough to rule."

President Sitkoski looked at Linas with an unamused stare, "Well, I hope our beloved empire doesn't come close to what Razonica is dealing with. We will be able to learn from the mistakes they are creating."

"Sir, are we not going to take any action with what is occurring in the north?" General Róg yells over President Sitkoski.

"What are we to do General? Our country is just starting to finally create a stable government, our military has just become organized, and we don't have the procedures in place to even deal with an issue like this. All we can do is sit back and hope that their issues don't affect us."

Just then Ambassador Anatol Sadowski rushes into the room in a panic.

"Prince Reio was just executed and the people of Razonica are now fighting each other."

"Have the Tadbu's planned another assassination? Thier country with crumble within a fortnight." General Róg exclaimed with the shock of this news.

"General Laerolk was the one who executed the prince; all done on national TV. He is telling the people that the nation's enemy is not the Tadbu but the Neroians. The countries civil war is getting out of hand. Sir, we must do something so that this chaos doesn't spread to other countries.

The once quiet room has now become a grounds for debate. All the Cabinet members scrambling to find a plan that won't end up hurting the Empire of Poland-Lietuva in the process. As the yelling continued, President Sitkoski stayed quiet, thinking about what the Empire should do as well. Sitkoski slowly rose from his seat and stood tall in front of his Cabinet members.

"I do believe that this chaos may become an issue for everyone if not treated immediately. Our Empire has a strong army that fights for the freedom of all men. I promised in my campaign that I will make Poland-Lietuva a strong presence on our globe. This is our chance to show other nations that we have what it takes to compete with everyone else. However, we can not rush into this issue alone. If Poland-Lietuva puts all its military power into Razoncia, then there is a chance we may lose a lot of soldiers in this chaos."

President Sitkoski paused for a second and looked to Vice President Broż.

"Go assemble all of my Cabinet to discuss a plan of action if we are to get involved with the Razoncia Crisis. For now, we must wait to see what other nations will plan on doing. If a nation does get involved we can offer aid to show the world that Poland-Lietuva will fight to bring peace and freedom to all people."

Vice President Broż looked at Sitkoski with a smile,"Yes Sir!"

[Tyranni]

Tyran City

The Free State of Tyranni was far away from the chaos in Razonica... far away from anything, really. A moderately-sized island far into the Orvosic Sea, the nation and its people had thrived in their isolation. However, now the ambitious God-Emperor of Tyranni had entered into the geopolitical game.

Helmsworth, the God-Emperor's butler, entered the room. "The Foreign Minister would like to see you," the butler said. "But I haven't appointed a Foreign Minister yet..." the God-Emperor replied. "I did. And he's coming in to see you, whether you like it or not," the butler explained. "Fine..." the God-Emperor grumbled.

"You can come in," the butler called. The Foreign Minister walked into the room. "Hey, I recognize you! Who are you?" the God-Emperor asked. "I was your old general, and I just resigned yesterday..." the Foreign Minister said. Turning to the butler, the Foreign Minister asked, "What happened to his memory?" "He hit his head trying to crawl into a sewer," the butler replied. "Why-" "Don't even ask," the God-Emperor replied.

"Well, why did you want to see me?" the God-Emperor asked. "Well, you see, there's a crisis going on in Razonica, which is quickly turning into a civil war. The Royal Family is being slowly killed off or forced to flee-" "Why would I want to intervene?" the God-Emperor asked. "Well, a few paragraphs ago, it said that you were entering the geopolitical game!" the Foreign Minister protested. "Yeah, I've entered it, but that doesn't mean I want to PLAY it," the God-Emperor replied. "Then what was that whole broadcast about!?" the Foreign Minister asked. "Tourism, obviously!" the God-Emperor replied. "I've always wanted a new armchair."

"Actually, the God-Emperor IS going to intervene, he's just waiting until the situation develops further," the butler said. "Right?" "Fine..." the God-Emperor grumbled. "Now, we have fifty-two things to go, so-" the Foriegn Minister said. "NO! GET OUT!" the God-Emperor screamed. Not even the Butler could defy this order.

[Peoples Republic of New Scotland]

Edinburgh, New Scotland

The call to Nerodanus did not go well. In fact the Neroian government ignored all of the attempted contact. According to an unknown official New Scotland is too insignificant to be worth cooperating with. George was infuriated to hear this. He decided that if Nerodanus would not be willing to work with New Scotland to solve the Razonican crisis he would support the Razonican government. George summoned his Foreign minister to discuss his choice.

Foreign Minister McGee sat down opposite of George at the presidential desk. Both men sat there for a moment, both had the faces of men who hadn't slept in days. McGee tiredly spoke up, "So George what's the plan?" George opened a drawer in his desk and pulled out a dossier and set it on his desk. George spoke up, "I want you to meet with Reagent Laerlok. I want you to let him know he has the full support of the New Scottish Government."

McGee looked shocked, "You want us to support that dictator?"

George sighed, "Yes. Nerodanus didn't want our assistance in any counter-action, we can't roll into Razonica guns blazing, and the best way to stop this is to support Laerlok and try to convince him to lighten up his rule."

McGee quietly agreed. George dismissed him. He waited for a couple minutes before picking up the phone. The person on the other side of the phone was Harold Norwan. George skipped the pleasantries and just said one sentence before hanging up, "Contact the remaining Razonican Imperial Guard, I have an offer for them."

[Razonica]

One week after the assault on the capital

Haemia,
Razonica

The once proud capital of a multi-cultural empire was a mere scar to the naked eye. Smoke drifted to the heavens while crows and ravens circled over head. In her life, Queen Turína had been to the imperial capital a few times. Many Razmanic businesswoman commuted to this city to trade with it. Sometimes, deals with the capital fell through. The seat of her cousin's power was now ablaze. From her spot on the Queenship, Northern Storm, Turína could tell that the new emperor had not been too kind to the supporters of her sister. The wind carried the iron smell of blood and assaulted her nose with the stench of burnt sulfur. What concerned her most was the line of ships blocking her own flee access to port. It wasn't that they outnumbered her. In fact, she could care less about that fact. It was that the port was narrow and now completely sealed. Landing troops was now out of the question. Even if she could sink them, the port was shallow and they would still be blocking Turína's fleet. Their only option now was to airdrop troops.

"We could just turn back" a woman said. Turína turned from the observation deck to see her second-in-command, Helga. Fleet Commander Helga Waterdagger was taken into the Razmanic province when she was only two. With no name of her own, she named herself Waterdagger after her success in several naval assaults. She looked older than her thirty-eight years. Helga's face was stern but smooth as seaglass. Her hair was black and wavy as waves. What made her look old was the scar that ran from her forehead over her left eye. Her ship was hit during a pirate raid. The RPG had hit a window, sending some debris at her. "Why do we need Razonica? Now is the time to become our own nation." she insisted. The queen was not impressed "I'll not entertain treason on my ship." She answered with a scoff "The empire is failing. We can be free of them now. Care for our own sisters." Turína stared back at the other woman "We get our sisters from Razonica. Few join our numbers now." The fleet commander shrugged "Okay then." Turína turned back to the observation deck "Bombard their positions with anti-ship missiles. We need to disable them. Even if sunk they'll fight. Send in the fighters as well. One more thing, call that Futrellian fleet and get their asses over here now."

Northern Storm's battle alarm went off in a shriek. The super-carrier was the only actual carrier the Razmans had. The other 4 were merely escort and helicopter carriers. Between them, they had forty planes. Northern Storm boasted twice that number. Aircraft were the fleet's only hope in getting into the city. But first, they had to assault the defenses. Raven-18s screamed in, fending off enemy planes, allowing other planes to launch missiles and fire torpedoes at the enemy ships. Razmanic missiles traded with Laerolk's. The fight for Haemia was underway.

Imperial Guardsmen Outpost, Haemia,
Razonica

The sounds of battle gave Captain Otto Pintorin a sense of hope. The royal family had been taken out of the city, but the Imperial Guard still had not yielded to the enemy. Their headquarters had been besieged by enemy forces, attacked by machine gun and mortar. Luckily, no tanks were within a week of Haemia since they were being shipped to Tadbu. Pintorin looked down the hall at the sprawled corpses to convince himself that there was no luck in that. They were still dying. Perhaps sixty men and women remained against Laerolk's now four thousand strong force. The true blessing was from the Razonican Army's loyalty to the empress. They still numbered about 400,000 without Laerolk's 250,000. However, almost a fifth of them were not moving from their home provinces. Pintorin feared that they had broken away as well. Luckily, that didn't include the Siolin Isles. They had their own small provincial military. Pintorin looked down at his chest and cupped the chain he wore. It was small and thin, but made of bronze. It praised Koe, the True God. The Ever-Parents of Razonica were not his gods. They were said to have made creation, to be the example of family. Koe was not that. Koe was a force, a presence. He had no form but he had knowledge. He could give you aid if you prayed to him, exchanged your ideas and knowledge for his. Studying was praying. His followers were few but they were well-educated and friends of Unionists. After all, family was were wisdom came from.

'Koe, I need you now.' he pleaded 'I cannot offer you much now. But I will give you more of my learning if I survive. Protect me Elder One.' The chestnut haired captain stood just in time to see a fighter soar past the window. Behind it, another plane loosed rounds of ammunition. At least someone had come to help. Just then, the phone in his office rang. Pintorin jumped, not expecting it. He crept back into his office, aware that below someone had just begun to shout that traitors were coming. Captain Pintorin picked up the phone. "Who the hell is this?" he demanded. It was a New Scotlandish man.

[Nerodanus]

Drakodia, Nerodanus

Maxim slammed his fist down on his desk. Right now it was starting to look like war with Razonica is going to unavoidable. Multiple generals had already suggested a pre-emptive strike against the Fascist government in the guise of attempting to restore the fallen government and assisting the people who are being killed by the new government. However Maxim had no intention to start a war. It was already sending older equipment that was being replaced to Tadbu with the Tadbunese-Neroian legonaries who have been allowed to return to fight for their homeland. On offical records, the equipment was bought by the soldiers heading to Tadbu on a "garage sale" plan. Although the action has not affected the Neroian military power, it has caused a diversion of resources that ensured the supplies reached Tadbu without issue which has finally paid off. Leaning back maxim let out a sigh before calling in his secretary.

Sky ran in, a pair of heels in her hand with one of them broken. "Yes Premier?" She asked. Maxim stood up and grab a bottle of superglue from his desk. Taking her broken heel he began to fix it. Not that it would last very long, just a temporary fix to get through the day. "Sky, Razonica has threatened us with Nuclear War. I need you to send out the Martial Law orders." Handing the now fixed heel back to his secretary she ran off to follow his instructions. Heading back to his desk, Maxim began issuing orders to his Generals. Patrols were to begin along the Orso Strait, from ships to jets. The Navy was to be placed on Standby at the major ports and all aircraft is to be ready to sortie at any moment. Anti-Nuclear weapons are to be readied and all Nuclear facilities were to be placed on standby for a retaliatory strike, only to be ordered by the Premier.

Opening up another chat channel, Maxim placed an order for his spies to locate Empress Faenia and Princess Ymira. If they were alive, it would benefit him to attempt contact. If they were dead, then the inevitable war between Razonica and Nerodanus would be far different.

Tadbu

The planes carrying the supplies for Tadbu has just landed. Ten old cargo carriers with Weapons and vehicles in each. The Cargo Planes will return to Nerodanus to bring in the next supply run later, under Neroian fighter Escort. Any attack on them would result in a deceleration of War against Nerodanus, and the Crimson Union. With the supplies and troops unloaded the planes began their refueling, and the Neroian-Tadbunese forces made way to the front lines. Within an hour and a half everything was checked and back in the air, returning to Nerodanus.

[Futrellia]

Capital Building
Tyderius, Tyderi District

---

"Sir, it's clear that our position on the Regent is wrong. The Federal credits we sent went right into his pocket. It is clear that the man ruling Razonica now is a tyrant who's only motive is to destroy and demolish. As General of the Federal Army, I'm requesting that the Armstrong Battle Group move to strike key Razonican military targets controlled by the Regent, and to put Futrellian boots on the ground right into Haemia to bring this Regent to justice." Said General Mizer, Commander of the Federal Army forces.

"Sir, If I may interrupt? I don't think our first target should be right into Haemia. We don't know where the Empress is after the Hospital attack, but we do know that Princess Ymira is in Adfrana. As to where, well, the Queen has really upped the security since her arrival. For now, she's safe there, but we need to take steps in case that changes. We have a good record with the Lussengardes, and now one of their Princes is dead." Said Advisor McMillain, one of the President's trusted advisers, who served during the Avarice War.

"Razonica's in a civil war, the Lussengardes are on the run, and Nerodanus is agitating the entire situation by supporting Tadbu. I won't allow them to provoke this any further. Prepare a statement for their government. They either back down and withdraw support from Tadbu, or the Federal Republic will use whatever force is required. Getting the Tadbuese to fall back in line is one problem, and removing the Regent is another. Futrellia will lead in the example that Nerodanus and the Crimson Union will not bully the rest of the world into submission. It's time we take a stand. Generals, mobilize everything. Every soldier, every ship, every tank and plane. I want them ready to launch at a moment's notice. As for the Armstrong Battle Group, I want them to work closely with the Razmas and do whatever is necessary to get the Regent off the throne. Contact the Adfranan Queendom and ask if they can contribute anything." The President removed himself from the office and allowed the men to gather their thoughts and begin mobilizing the Federal Republic's military and send Nerodanus a warning.

FNV Armstrong
Armstrong Battle Group

Admiral Nathan DeVier watched from the helm of his ship as the Battle Group of one of the Valla-Class Aircraft Supercarriers, accompanied by five Davro-Class Destroyers, two Corvo-Class Guided Missile Destroyer, and two Valder-Class Anti-Submarine Frigates breached Razonican waters, heading towards the Port of Haemia. That would be their first target. The 10-ship strike force now had different orders. They would clear the skies and seas of nearby Regent-loyal ships and aircraft, take the port and begin offloading Federal Marines to assist in taking the city. With the Port taken, they would have control over the seas and with the F/A-37 Talon Advanced Fighters, they would rule the air. Once the Port was taken, they would also begin striking High Value areas under the control of the Regent, while coordinating with Razman forces. Together, they would take back Razonica and place it back into the hands of the Lussengardes. Then, would come Nerodanus.

[Peoples Republic of New Scotland]

Just outside of Hameia

Thomas Wallace was tasked with contacting Captain Pintorin. In order to do so he was flown into Razonica and Para-dropped 12 miles from the Imperial Guard Headquarters In Haemia. He watched the siege through binoculars. He waited for a lull in action before calling the Captain. "Captain Pintorin, I'm afraid for security purposes our call must be kept short so let me give my proposition to you. I am Agent Thomas Wallace, I work with the NSFIA, I have been authorized by my government to make the following proposition to you and your men. If you agree you, your men, and any civilians you have with you can be extracted and taken to safety. There is an NSFIA aircraft carrier off the coast. It is equipped with enough helicopters to extract everyone. We also have jets marked with the Razonican air force banner which can provide cover for the extraction. Now we will extract you if you are willing to arrange a meeting between Empress Faenia and myself. If you accept my proposition then place an IR beacon on the rood of your building in the next 20 minutes. Once you place the beacon you will have 30 minutes to get all your people together for extraction once you are in position the jets will proceed to bomb the surrounding forces, use another beacon to alert the helicopters to your position. If you don't trust me then get one of your snipers to look North at bearing 125.3. You will see me. Alone. With only my personal service weapons. Remember Captain you have 20 minutes to make your decision, starting now." Wallace hung up the phone and started a timer.

[Razonica]

Haemia

Pintorin wasn't sure how someone was somehow able to enter a war-zone unless they had been invited. New Scotland had yet to voice their side in the war, but the fact that they were silent while Futrellia and Adfrana were voicing outrage made Pintorin suspicious. Perhaps they weren't even from New Scotland and were the regent's forces. There was no way he would allow his men and the people under their protection to be taken by the enemy. Everyone had Razonican banners and uniforms. Telling friend from foe was an absolute nightmare. The most important issue, however, was the fact that the captain had no idea where the empress was. She had been taken by her personal house guard and rushed underground through the city's subway routes. For all he knew, they could be going to an airport to flee the country. Or perhaps...yes...perhaps they had been taken somewhere closer to home. Somewhere that the Lussengarde banner had flown for over four and a half centuries.

Regardless, there was no way he could give the man what he wanted. He did not order his men to watch him or take him out. Pintorin did not want to kill the stranger, just in case he was from New Scotland. The key was to make friends, not enemies. Refusing their offer might upset them, but killing their citizen would piss them off. Instead, Pintorin called for Razma aid. He picked up his satellite phone and switched to the Local Combat Command Chancel (LCCC). This chancel was heavily encrypted to outside instruments but not difficult to dial into with the proper radio and access code. Each commander had a different code.

Downstairs, Pintorin could hear the cries of surprised traitors as they stumbled into his ambush. Yet, he also heard the thunder of a tank. The building shook has another shell impacting, exploding a portion of the wall. He turned his attention back to his radio "Foxhound to Elkhoof, my position is heavily compromised and in dire need of support. Civilians are included in our position." For a moment there was no answer. Then a woman answered "This is Hunter 1, I can lend aid with my squadron. We can send helicopters to evacuate the civilians."

Above the battered command post, six Razma fighters zipped across the sky. Command Crystine, commander of Hunter Squadron, looked down to see that the man she had spoken to was not exaggerating. Six tanks hammered the building whilst mortars poured down the roof. Troops stormed the positions by the entryway, making sure to not actually enter the building for fear of friendly fire. The Razmans broke formation to swoop down and fire anti-armor missiles at the tanks. On the first pass, the tanks were eliminated. The mortars, however, remained constant. Then, a warning went off in Crystine's cockpit. Knowing that a shoulder launched missile was screamed at her aircraft, she fired counter measures and turned off to the right at a hard angle. Once more, Hunter Squadron bore down on the enemy, using missiles and guns to strafe the enemy.

Once clear, helicopters poured in from surrounding areas. Some had wounded soldiers already loaded on them. Civilians were hurried on-board, while uninjured Razmas exited their craft to help strengthen the number of imperials there. Pintorin walked out to see almost forty more soldiers waiting for orders. One of the women stepped forward "Imperial convoys are about four hours out. The Army is doing their best but they're having to cut a way into the capital. The south has declared independence under a fascist regime lead by the regent. They plan to take all of Razonica in order to make their lands the new capital provinces." Pintorin grimaced "Any order from the Old Crow?" The woman shook her head "Taeron Lussengarde has yet to march his armies from the north but I've heard that Lusendale has tripled its security. It seems that the general plans to use his ancestral home as his main supply-line depot." Pintorin scowled "I was hoping that General Lussengarde was coming to the capital."

"No, his army is preparing to invade the south and crush the resistance there."

"Well...I suppose we'll have to wait then."

The woman smiled then "Not long though. The Futrellian fleet is going to come and help us fight for this city. I've just received word."

Haemia, Imperial Palace

Despite warnings to leave, General Laerolk had not left. He had chosen to wait for his own army to push out the imperials. His plan was to move his troops from the south straight to the capital. From there, he would move north towards the Razma lands, cutting the imperials into two separate armies. While he was planning how he would handle the two armies, a messenger came into his office.

"Sir, the Neroians have asked for one of our factions to get their favor. Sir, if I may be so bold, I believe we should take them up on their offer." The general waved his hand in dismissal "Reject it. We shall not be put under the thumb of communism. Even for their aid. They would try to breed their vile government in our lands. Never." He stopped to read over his plans again. The messenger waited for several minutes before asking "Sir...what should our answer be officially?" The general didn't look up from his schemes "Tell them we decline their offer to legitimize us. We can do that ourselves."

Lusendale

Lusendale, the birthplace of the Lussengarde line. Held by them since 1446, Lusendale had always been governed by a Lussengarde. Taeron Lussengarde was the spinning image of his brother, the fallen emperor of Razonica. While only forty-five, General Lussengarde had been nick-named the "Old Crow". That was no mistake though. Every Lussengarde who ruled Lusendale and held a military rank of an officer was called an old crow. Tradition demanded that this accomplished man also receive that name.

In the distance, he saw his niece approaching their family's fortress in a sleek aircraft. It had probably come from one of the hidden airports that was build outside of the capital for occasions just like this. It was troubling to know that it had to be used for its intended purpose. The collapse of the empire would result in not only civil strife, but also foreign invasions from almost all major powers. If it came to it he could use...no, Taeron must not think about those weapons. Since she was still a few minutes from the airport, Taeron took the time to find her favorite flower in his garden. It was a blue-yellow petaled flower. The petals were curved, like wings, and was bright and cheerful. Gently, he took hold of one of the flowers and pulled it from the plant. His hands were firm and strong, yet he held the flower with grace and just enough force to keep it from falling. The flower was called a Sunrise Lily, which was why Taeron called the empress of the entire Razonican people "Sunrise"

Faenia and Walter exited the aircraft under a guard of thirty-six imperial guards. Faenia leaned on the shoulder of one of the soldiers, while another pushed Walter in his wheelchair. Vienna trailed behind, being lead by Councilmen Hrathaen, who looked injured and sore himself. When he saw them, Uncle Taeron's smile evaporated. Seeing his nieces and nephew in this state was painful. Then his face went pale. "Where is Reio? And Ymira?" Like his older brother, Taeron never forgot about the bastard. She was family to Taeron. She was the blood of his own brother. If blood was not enough to forge family, then what could men do to change it? Faenia looked up from her feet to sob quietly "He's dead uncle." The Sunrise Lily slipped from Taeron's hand. He sucked in a breath as if he had been punched. "Dead? I...I heard their was riots in the capital, but I had been resting then..." he whispered. He asked quickly, "Your mother, where is she?" Faenia shrugged "I don't know. I was herded out by my guards, I was only thinking of the children." Vienna looked up, the innocence of youth shielding her from the pain," Uncle, Faenia says Reio is gone. Where is he?" The older man smiled despite the tears he felt coming. He knelt and picked up Vienna in his strong arms. "Do you remember our Parents Vienna? Our gods?" The little girl nodded. "Well, your brother has gone to see them. He's gone to see your father. He can't come back to us. Not now, not ever. We will have to see him. We have to wait though." He hugged her close and said -more to himself than her- "And we're not going to wait idly."

After they had spoken some more, Faenia followed Uncle Taeron to his command room. Lusendale was a city similar to the imperial capital. It had a port, skyscrapers, and even a stock exchange. It had something extra though. Fort Lusen, named for the first of the imperial line, was a massive fortress. Over the centuries it had been updated many times. Still, the star formation stone walls still stood. They were put in during the mid-1800s, after the destruction of the medieval walls. The ancient keep was attached to the larger complex. The castle was only two stories but was still large. It's walls were snaked by vines and overgrowth. Weeds grew in the arrow-slits that were once a line of defense. It was now only the house of the general. He liked the old feeling the plants gave his home, so he never cut them. The rest of the fort was modern. The mossy stone-and-mortar simply didn't match the smooth concrete of new additions.

The Information Room was as high-tech as any one could hope for. College-aged tech geeks (as Taeron dubbed them) manned keyboards with the same determination as war-hardened veterans embraced their rifles. The room glowed with lights and bleeped with alerts. General Taeron showed the empress to a complex looking screen-computer network. "This is where I got the messages I wanted to tell you from." He looked at the young man typing on the keyboard. "Make this thingy work, woulda son?" The screen lit up with the world news. The first broadcast showed that Vacroaye had entered the war on Razonica's side. The empress laughed scornfully, "So now I'll have to suffer those people when this war is over? I'm tempted to deny them access. There's no telling what they'll try to take from us after this is all over. They needed us to build their nation up but they refused us. They'll just stay here in our nation as say that's only fair." She sighed "Thank them for me with a big ol' letter of happiness."

"And what of this one?" asked her uncle. The image changed to an official document from Nerodanus. It declared that which ever Razonican faction answered them first would be named the legal one. Faenia smiled "They want to enslave us. They think we'll actually accept their subjugation? Thank them for me and express my heartfelt gratitude but explain that I don't believe our relations are good enough for this. Tell them I fear they would panic my people if they brought their banners into our lands."

Yuladi,
Capital of the Siolin Isles Province

It was official. Today, the Siolin Isles had declared their independence from the empire. For years, the Isles had demanded equality from the mainland. They wanted to have representatives, not bow to an absolute rulers, to a woman young enough to be in university. Instead, the imperials told them when to do things. What to produce, what to export. No more. Now, the Siolin Isles were masters of their own fates. They had taken the means of production by slaying the imperial garrison in their capital.

Premier Maekus Britho smiled as he looked up at his new comrades. They stood amidst the guts and gore of foe and comrade alike. Britho had the vision to see communism save the Isles. All he had to do was give it a push. Now, he stood atop a destroyed statue of the first Lussengarde emperor. He raised his arms and voice like a preacher. "Gentlemen, today we have overthrown tyranny by accepting the truth of communism. That being said, the Raz will try to use their Unionist religion and their weapons to argue against our cause. We do not bow to gods or kings. We are free men! The savage women north of us shall do as their imperial masters bid and will march on our shores. We are a small people but we are mighty. We shall push them back. We shall reject all that is Raz and all that is Unionist. The Ever-Parents aren't real, men rule, not gods."

"Comrades, we intercepted a transmission to the mainland and we able to discover that Nerodanus is willing to support which ever nation answers them first. I took the liberty to declare that we are the most legitimate nation in the fallen empire. We shall soon have their fists as our own. Together, communism shall stomp out the ravings of the tyrant bitch and the murderous zealot! Then all of the former empire shall become communist. We are not just the Isles. We are the heart of all Razonicans. We shall be reunited by our new freedom! Hail the power of Men!" A thunderous roar of cheers and bursts of rifles showed their approval.

To: The Nerodan Government

Comrades! By the time you get this, I shall be Premier of the Siolin Isles. I am Maekus Britho, a believer of Communism. My people are ignorant to your equalizing ways. If we were to become the new government of the fallen empire, communism could have all of this continent. United, we can spread communism to all the world and free men from gods and tyrants. If you support me and my Isles, we will be willing to fully learn and embrace the tenets of Communism to join our brethren in your nation.

Premier Maekus Britho.

Doretha,
Captial of the Raeh Province

"I say that we should take up the Neroian's offer." stated Martin Yaenor. A small council of Raeh men and women had gathered in a local senate. There were some other ethnic groups too, even a few Raz. The Republic of Raegaron, as they now called themselves, had not deployed their provincial troops. Instead, they stood waiting to fight off imperial troops. Or the new zealot army commanded by the regent.

The council was a timid bunch of dreamers and idealists. They would never had dared to such betrayal unless they had the backing of a major noble house. House Halbeck had lived in the Raeh Province for almost as long as they had been around. Some of them were even believers of Lolae, Pyrina, and Kiola, the sisters of Creation, Balance, and Destruction. Septimus Halbeck was not one of these men. He held the Ever-Parents close to his heart, but did not follow the rules of their church. He argued that men should know their own gods, not be told who they are by priests.

Septimus Halbeck sat at the council, listening rather than speaking. While some in his family wanted to take over, Septimus believed in democracy. If his noble blood would make people take his ideas, he didn't want them to hear him. A man's blood and his mind were separate. These new representatives would have to toughen up before they collapsed and a new monarch came.

"Lord Halbeck...?" Septimus looked up at Jaesi Namoi, the Speaker General, of the council. He was the only Halbeck present, even if that was usually what people called his father. Septimus wanted to be just Septimus. "Ms. Namoi, please, call me Setpimus. Or Mr. Halbeck." The young man smiled "I'm not too sure my family would like it if you called me Lord. If you haven't noticed, I'm kinda at odds with them." The woman nodded "Yes, sir, your sacrifice for the people is most generous-"

"Please just Septimus. And look, we have to act quickly here people. The Empire is sure as shit going to smash our armies. Our democracy rests upon the twisted and corrupted shoulders of my father. We can't allow that. My ancestor, Hersea Helbeck once said 'Peasants can stab deeper than any nobleman if you give them enough reason'. As we know, she was quite a controversial woman who married a boy but what I'm saying is that she believed that you were equal to lords. What you lack is conviction. Don't look at me for purpose. Find it. Embrace it. Make it your reason to stab back. "

"Then...you think we should treaty with Nerodanus?" asked the Speaker General. The young lord shrugged "I'm not much of a politician. I'm just saying without an army we can't stand alone. And if we take their offer, they'll snuff out our republic before we ever get to take our first baby steps. Instead, we must look to our allies in Futrellia. They are republicans like us. If we can turn the from the imperials, we can stand."

To: The Futerillan Government
Encryption: Medium

We are the Republic of Raehgaron. The people of Razonica are tired of absolute rule. For centuries, the Lussengardes have ruled. While we wish them no ill will, we don't want one woman telling us how to live. One person should never have that much power. We implore you to remember what blood was spent to buy your democracy. Remember why your forefathers were ready to die for their liberty. We all are sharing this country together. We should all get a say. If you would back our legitimacy, we too could be free men. Without your help, the Empire will crush our liberties with their absolute rule. Please help our people get what they deserve. They cry out for democracy in their dreams, but hide from the monarch during the day. Help our people become equal. Show us what a nation where everyone has a voice can do for those who need help.

The Council of Republicans.

[Peoples Republic of New Scotland]

Just outside of Hameia

20 minutes had passed and there was no response from Pintorin. Wallace picked up his binoculars and look over the Imperial Guard Building. He saw several of Laerolk's men killed an ambush. He watched and waited for at least an hour before the helicopters arrived. They were Imperial guard aviation units. Wallace watched from his perch as the civilians were evacuated. He smiled. Suddenly a call came in on his sat phone. Wallace answered the phone. The man on the other side spoke first; "Activation code Delta-Xray-Charlie-1-8-7-9-9-2-3. New orders. For get about finding the empress. New faction rose up. New priority is to aid the Imperial guard. Asset 3-3-2-Foxtrot-7 given the same orders. You are being granted strike clearance. Be advised, hostile convoy in bound, 300 Clicks out." The man hung up the phone. Wallace could tell from the code that it was his handler. He dialed Pintorin's command post. An aid picked up the phone. Wallace spoke quickly; "Tell the captain to withdraw any men to your compound, your guardian angles are en route about 15 minutes out." Wallace hung up he then dialed another number. "Activation code Delta-Roger-Foxtrot-Taco-9-0-2-1-0, Operation Guardian Angel is a go. Repeat, Operation Guardian Angel is a go." Wallace hung up. In about 20 minutes Jets based off of the most popular Razonican design, marked with the Imperial Guard insignia, would take off from a Aircraft carrier hidden in international waters off Razonica and run several sorties over the city bombing the Laerolken forces based on satellite imagery. Captain Pintorin. In order to do so he was flown into Razonica and Para-dropped 12 miles from the Imperial Guard Headquarters In Haemia. He watched the siege through binoculars. He waited for a lull in action before calling the Captain. He began packing his gear and getting ready to make his way to the Imperial guard compound to offer his services to Pintorin.

[Futrellia]

The Port of Haemia

The Armstrong Battle Group had arrived at Haemia, deploying ground and air assets immediately, establishing a forward operations base from the FNV Armstrong, the sister ship of the FNV Underwood and the second Valla-Class Aircraft Supercarrier to be built. Ten Federal F/A-37 Talon Advanced Air Superiority Fighters deployed from the Armstrong, securing the air above them and to provide air security for the ground assets when they landed.

"Striker Five, reporting all systems green, ready to fly."
"All aircraft accounted for and ready, the light is green. Godspeed, gentlemen." Said the Air Traffic Controller of the Armstrong. One by one, fifteen EC236 Transport Helicopters, carrying twenty-eight men each, lifted off of the Armstrong's massive runways. This would be the first wave of Federal forces in the Razonican capital of Haemia, codenamed Sword. The second wave, Dagger, would be delivered by three V-42 Condor Vertical Take Off-Landing aircraft to the city blocks that surrounded the Imperial Palace. Their mission was a capture-or-kill order. They would attempt to breach the Palace and find the Regent. If he surrendered, he would be arrested. If he resisted, he was to be terminated at all costs. If Dagger Teams failed, Sword Teams would divert to assault the Palace and capture it from Regent-loyal forces. The third and final force, Shield, would be delivered by thirty DD-120 Fast Assault Craft, each carrying fifteen Federal Marines. Their mission would be to capture the port and use it as a forward operating base and to fortify it. If Dagger and Sword failed, surviving forces would fall back to the Port and resupply while Air Force units would provide resistance for any Razonican forces attempting to breach Shield lines.

Tyderius, Futrellia
3:46am

The President read through the message several times before placing his head in his hand and rubbing his face roughly. Recent military operations had the President awake for the past twenty-one hours. He was irritable, exhausted, and downright pale.

"I understand that this is something that we didn't expect, but it's there, Mister President. If we don't support Raehgaron, they fall into the arms of the Neroians. If we do support them, we lose our friends in the Empire, including the Lussengardes. We've already got forces landing in Haemia for the Empress, but if we don't act in time, Raehgaron could fall into the communist category, giving us another enemy to fight." Said Advisor Henris McMillain, twirling a pen in his hand while sipping lightly on a white, ceramic cup of coffee.

"They wouldn't go to Nerodanus. They want a republic, they want to be free. They take Communist help, it'll destroy what little bit of democracy they have." Said General Mizer.

"Desperation can make all honorable men do dishonest things. If they can't secure Federal help, they'll look elsewhere, towards our enemies."

"Perhaps a compromise? If I can get the Empress and....whoever the leader is for Raehgaron, maybe they will agree on sovereignty for the Republic?" Pleaded the President, examining the laptop he read the message from.

"Sadly, the Regent has pushed that off the table. Had Laerolk not killed Prince Reio, maybe it would be possible for that. The Empress will stop at nothing to re-unite her Empire, whether they want to or not. When the Regent is arrested or executed, Raehgaron will resist and Faenia will behead them all." Warned McMillain.

"I can't leave them to fight this alone. Democracy is already so rare, I can't just turn my back on them. We have to help them. With the Empire shattered and the Lussengardes in hiding, we can give Raehgaron a fighting chance, as long as they do not deploy their troops outside of the Raeh Province. Federal troops will continue to smash through Haemia and help the Imperials as best we can. If this new republic can avoid attention, close it's borders and continue to establish it's government, I believe we can give them something." Said the President.

"Mister President....if...if the Lussengardes found out about this, if they knew we were funding rebels to fight Imperial forces. Worst case, they will declare war and begin operations against Futrellian forces in Razonica and smash the Raeh Republic. Best case? They break off all military and trade agreements, kick our troops off of Razonica and smash the Raeh Republic. If we engage in a war with Razonica, we will stand alone. Adfrana is heavily invested in Razonica, which will either mean Adfrana will leave the EAC and cut off all ties with us, or leave the EAC and deploy their military against us. The already fragile EAC will break and Futrellia would be in a dire predicament. Please....consider your actions here, Mister President." Said the Advisor.

"Then.....delay our response. Inform them that we are open to helping them, but it must come from a diplomatic standpoint. Attacking Imperial troops will only cause them to suffer, but if they fought against the Regent's men, perhaps it would be enough. I have to get some sleep. I have an important meeting with the Kaladian delegation tomorrow and I can't see them looking like this. Dismissed." President Underwood said, raising from his chair. The stress of the Presidency had turned Underwood into a husk of his former self. He was thinner, paler, a few strands of grey hair dotted his blonde hair.

[Plyric]

Grumhelwale, Plyric

Gallius is in his office doing most of his work that he was behind in after his extensive vacationing all over Elvarya, which was cut shortly 3 months ago. During his recovery of work, Lucius puts the government in G.I.N.T in level 3, which meant that the nation need to prepare for anything, but at a very fast quota, more mellow pace than anything. Julie enters Gallius room with more files in her hand.

"Gallius, here's the files you requested, I dunno why you want the prisoner's identification nor their whole background, when Lucius allowed prisoners to undergo Pilot training" Julie says as Gallius takes the files from her.

"I need to make sure if he actually listened to me, I wanted a prisoner to be recruited for a particular interest, and I know a very well known prisoner' Gallius says as he reads the file and also stroking his fine goatee.

Julie looks at Gallius as he flips through the files, stopping at one the the red taped ones. Gallius had a grin and gets up from his chair and walks over to his window that overlooked the finer parts of Grumhelwale.

"Found the someone you wanted, but if I had to ask, who is it?" Julie says as she gives Gallius a look.

"Do you remember Brutus or also known as the Butcher of Nepte? Gallius says as he shows Julie the file with Brutus's information.

"Have you gone insane? That man almost ruined The family claim to rule, by butchering most of our supporters in Nepte, are you sure there's something to do with that monster?" Julie says as she gives Gallius a scared look.

"The man had been locked up for a good twenty five years, while exposed to all of our techniques which should've work on any strong willed men. I know this since the last time I seen him, he was very convinced of our rule, and is willing to do work for us as long he gets his freedom" Gallius says as he puts on his suit and heads out of his office, leaving Julie alone in his office.

[Adfrana]

Across Adfrana

For the past few days now, the Royal Armed Forces had been marked as "WHITE THREE", a heightened state of readiness and able to deploy all military assets within 72 hours. White Three was the middle of the readiness scale, below was "BLUE TWO", a state of readiness that would put all the Royal forces on alert and able to transition to White Three within 72 hours. Above White Three, was Red Four, meaning war has been declared and Adfranan troops are deployed. Above, was Purple Five, a state of martial law as a nation-wide draft was enacted. Purple Four hasn't been activated since it's inception in 1924.

McGallum Central Command was to be used as a muster point for all troops before they deploy to other countries. At the moment, a number of AW-139 utility helicopters had been landing in supplies for the past 18 hours, dropping off crates of ammunition to be stored at McGallum's Southside, Northside and Eastside Armories. If Red Four was activated, these crates of ammunition would mean life or death of Royal troops out in the field. Across the 4,800 foot-long runway, dozens of aircraft repair crews, battalions and various RAF officials were bustling about, readying McGallum for it's first mobilization since the Avarice War. Since then, the crews based at McGallum had grown sloppy, allowed numerous aircraft to go unattended and for decay to set in, forcing crews from nearby Ukaylin Army Station to come in and fix them all up, while the others faced court martial.

At Marlow Barracks in Baldonark, engineers from the Engineering Corps began bringing out it's fleet of Piranha armored fighting vehicles, getting them ready for deployment. McKee Naval Station had all of the Navy's ships docked at port, The RNS Harrington, the first and only helicopter patrol vessel of it's class, the two Calloway-Class Patrol vessels, and the three Hatter-Class Patrol vessels. It wasn't very large, but it would do.

In Daleford, the capital city of the Queendom, tempers had been flared between the Queen's Lord Protector, commander of the Queensguard, and the Chief Constable of the Province's metropolitan police forces on the matter of safety for Queen Alyssa.

In Kingsgate, the Royal Intelligence Service was keeping a close eye on events abroad and at home. The reason for all of these security measures was because of one person, a Princess. Ymira Lussengarde was in Adfrana, visiting the Lonidiers at Lonidier Estate in Stratford Province. Stratford Provincial Police were on standby and several RIS agents were en-route to Darhallow, a small town three miles south of the Estate. There, they would keep an eye on the Estate and ensure no harm came to her while she visited.