Small New Nation Seeks International Recognition (MT)

[The Shrailleeni Empire]

Aedoran District,
Fallows, Aedora

Daru Jon listened intently as Lora spoke, fingers linked together in front of him. The other Aedoran at the table also listened carefully, occasionally glancing at one another but saying nothing. When she concluded, he said nothing for a second or two, not meeting her gaze. Then he nodded in some kind of silent understanding, and put his hands flat on the table.

"Oh, make no mistake, we are ready. We Aedoran haven't been this united in our entire history, we are ready to throw off the shackles of oppression and take our lands back. The Council of Aedora has brought together we Socialists, the clan matriarchs, and the Leenic priestesses. If the Council ordered it tomorrow, we would have everything south of Torrebyn by midnight."

He voice was strong and certain, but his lips thinned and his brow furrowed in obvious frustration as he continued.

"The problem is the waiting. Every day that we sit on our hands, the Nadirii and Kehrahnii occupiers have the chance to undo everything. Er, the Kehrahnii puppets of Bryn Tegna that is," he corrected, briefly apologetic. He looked perturbed a moment, and then took a drink of water, apparently mulling something over. Setting it down, he spoke again. "Theres a Shrailleeni queen here in Fallows. She said that she was taking care of the nobles for us, bringing them over to our side. Said it would be easier that way. And she said that Jennifer Thrall was on her way here, and that she would give us full autonomy in exchange for supporting her against her enemies."

There were muffled whispers around the table, but it didn't seem as though this was the first time any of the Aedoran had heard this information.

"I told her I'd rather trust a hungry smilodon with my kids, but she's got the damn priestesses wrapped around her fingers. The Leenists positively tremble with anticipation at bearing their necks to the Shrai, and without their support everything falls apart. But no Aedoran trusts a Thrall. If you go before the Council tomorrow and tell them exactly what you just told us, I know I can get a majority vote to accept independence, alliance, trade...the whole deal."

"And when that happens, nobody, not the nobles, not the Shrailleeni, will be able to stop us from seizing what's ours."

[Kehrahn]

OOC: Hello folks, my humblest apologies, but I got very busy with school and have not really had time or thought to post. I realize some of you are waiting for responses, but I'll have to let you all know when I'm more available. If you need to move on in some way, please telegram me and we can discuss how to make that easier for you.

[Kehrahn]

OOC: Back. My plan is to keep the thread moving. I would like to address roleplaying focused on individual characters and the like to other threads or as vignettes in this one to keep things moving. Please TG me if you have concerns and thank you for your patience!

IC:

In the days following Jacqueline Thrall's menacing press conference, Queen Jada's new government was busy round the clock. Academics, businesspersons, journalists and diplomats were given a certain degree of freedom to move about, but of course there were areas of strategic importance that were restricted, and everyone who was a foreigner was either restricted to particular areas or groups or else guided by minders. This was stated to be for their own protection. The Adirans, for example, were accompanied by a woman who was an official from the Matriarchate of Industry along with a driver and bodyguard, while the academics from Chaco simply had a young woman from the Matriarchate of Culture.

An entire division was mobilized to protect the oilfields and refineries. This was a motorized division which had vehicles that had proven durable for desert or rocky terrain operations. Air defense systems were protected in fortified bases which were worked on tirelessly by field engineers and slave battalions. It was considered a good use for gelded, as they were not quite as strong but were far more docile than whole males would have been. The oil fields and their routes were key to the economy and were to be protected accordingly. The Matriarch of Industry advised that there should be a strong focus on redundancy for transport just in case, so that road, rail and pipeline transport were equally to be focused on.

The Kehrahni Air Force maintained three AWACS patrols: one watching the border with the Feminist Empire, one watching the foreign borders with the Dengali/Dahamys, and one overseeing the central district and the Edomte border.

Behind the scenes, however, they were working feverishly to put themselves in a better position.

First: the foreigners who had promised aid were focused on. Those who had offered to donate munitions and valuable industrial parts. food and textiles were flattered and courted, were sent the nicest looking most charming diplomats to encourage the view that Kehrahn was civilized and pleasant unlike barbaric Deadora. The Matriarch of War had estimated that without the entire country providing industry and munitions, Kehrahn might be able to provide heavy weapons, missiles, shells and bombs for perhaps a week before they ran out altogether, and that would stretch them to maximum transport capacity. Perhaps 2-3 months of small arms ammunition was available. They could stretch that plus simpler munitions such as grenades and mortars about the same if they focused almost entirely on war. This was not what Queen Jada wanted. She wanted a prosperous, successful nation. "Tits and slits it is then," said Queen Jada to her privately, "To woo the sweet foreigners. Just peeking for now, but if the foreigners want to break out the strapons I won't say no at this stage."

Second: Shrailleen, New Edom, Novitera and Adiron must be wooed, but differently. Unlike the foreigners, they would not be dazzled by exoticism and pleas. Shrailleen, it was grimly recognized, wanted acceptance of Mother Goddess worship and support for their agenda in Acheron, and it had to be vigorous. Efforts at attempting to intimidate the new ambassador had only been effective on a personal level. The Shrailleeni themselves were determined. "I don't want one darkie foot in my palace," warned Queen Jada. "Not without it being a guest. I hear they were so far up Bryn Tegna they were regularly sniffing the Matriarch Empress' anus. Not here. But we can be friends." Easier said than done, grumbled the officials in the Foreign Matriarchy. Friendliness and support for the Shrailleeni ambitions was fine, and economic and military partnerships were to be made a priority. Queen Jada offered to send one of her own family, ideally a daughter or sister, to the Holy Empire to begin the rounds of discussions.

Adiron and Novitera simply appeared to want to trade, and this was easiest to deal with. Meetings were to be set up to arrange for land leases, contracts and development plans. If foreigners would relieve some of the burden of developing stronger infrastructure and services, so much the better. This could also be used to make Jacqueline Thrall hesitate. Would she want war with the long range air and sea power of Novitera and Adiron? Jada made sure that these negotiations were allowed to leak to foreign press but did not mention it deliberately herself.

New Edom was another matter. They wanted greater control over Magna Lacuna and they wanted Kehrahn to remain in FODE. Rumour had it that they had sent a special envoy to see Jacqueline Thrall. The Kehrahni Ambassador urged Queen Jada to believe that the Edomites were not bluffing; they would, if they suspected a rat, sell them out to Jacqueline Thrall in a moment, who was, after all the rightful ruler of Deadora in the absence of Jennifer Thrall. The Edomite Foreign Minister had pointed out that Empress Jennifer Thrall had reached an understanding with King Elijah, and that his duty was primarily to follow that up and find out if there were any policy changes. Queen Jada wished that they would fail and fight it out with one another, and spoke with her closest advisers about how to exploit that possibility. "We can hope...but in the meantime we must tread carefully," she decided. This was a juggling game. One could not rush the Shrailleeni save by one means: telling them of a pending Edomite success. Jada realized she must somehow juggle two great forces to gain what she could while not giving away the farm to each.

And then there was the Matriarch Empire itself. You could not play with Nadirii rulers. They would not play the game as the Shrailleeni and Edomites would; they would demand neck baring. Queen Jada knew that she could only delay so long, but that the hints of negotiations with foreigners would require that the Thrall dynasty would have to be a little cautious. But she was Deadoran herself by education and training. There was an impatience that would boil out, a deep lust for power that would dominate in the end. She had to be ready. And worse, there was a part of her that yearned for it. Jacqueline Thrall's face and voiced filled her with those maddening desires that warred within every powerful woman in Deadora: to conquer or submit. It would be equally sweet to bare her neck, submit herself to a violent giving that would leave her bruised and kissing Jacqueline's beautiful feet. It would be equally sweet to see her running and hot faced with furious tears as Jada sent her reeling back across the border. Uncertainty existed within the Empire. Could Jacqueline move forward and trust that all was safe at her flanks and her back?

Some patriarch philosopher had remarked once that being in power was like riding a giant blind worm. Queen Jada lay in sweat soaked sheets and wondered.

[Aedora]

Fallows, Aedora

Before Jacqueline Thrall's ascent to the throne of Deadora, the Council of Aedora had been divided over the issue of independence. The Socialist Party was entirely in favor of it, but the tribal elders and Leenic priestesses put their faith in the counsel of the Shrailleeni, who urged caution and prudence. With Jennifer Thrall missing and Deadora weak, many argued that Aedora had the time that it needed to work with the Shrailleeni and find a careful route to sovereignty. Some even argued that Aedora should join the Shrailleeni Empire outright.

This all changed in the space of a single morning.

Jacqueline Thrall was a terrifying threat, and one that united all of the Aedoran people. Not long after her speech, word began to spread around Fallows that the Deadoran army was mobilizing in the north of the province, and that armored divisions were making their way south. In the chambers of the Council, Daru Jon gave a passionate speech about the need to take action before everything was lost. Afterward, he gave the floor to a woman named Lora Kiallo who claimed to represent the Queendom of Kehrahn. She offered recognition of Aedora's independence and a mutual defense pact against Deadora on behalf of Queen Jada.

In the end the vote was unanimous, with only a handful of abstentions. The Council of Aedora declared the formal creation of the People's Republic of Aedora, a fully independent and sovereign nation. It claimed as its territory the entire Deadoran province of Aedora, naming Fallows as its capital. In the same session, the Council offered full recognition to the Queendom of Kehrahn and authorized the creation of a mutual defense pact.

But the troubles of Aedora were not over. Although they claimed all of the province as their state, they exercised true control only over the small, southern tip of the peninsula. They were poorly armed, and had only militias for their defense. The Nadirii and Kehrahnii nobility who ruled the province were still very much around, and were keen to keep their traditional powers. Without international recognition, the fledgling Aedoran state was doomed. And so the People's Republic made a statement to the rest of the world.

To the Nations of the World

We, the Council of Aedora, acting on behalf of the free and sovereign Aedoran people, do hereby establish for our nation a fully independent and sovereign state. We renounce the tyrannical rule of the Empire of Deadora and its Matriarch Empress Jacqueline Thrall, no longer will our oppressors seize our lands, our labor, and our very lives for their own cruel purposes and personal wealth. The land of Aedora belongs to the Aedoran, its soil holds the blood of our ancestors and our mothers' mothers, and it shall no longer tolerate the presence of its unlawful conquerers.

We hereby establish the People's Republic of Aedora, which shall continue to be led by the duly elected Council of Aedora, the voice of the Aedoran people. We embrace our sister nation the Queendom of Kehrahn, and stand with Matriarch-Queen Jada against the forces of the tyrannical and oppressive Thrallist government of Deadora.

No longer will we Aedoran be cut off from the world, prisoners in our own land. We now call upon all freedom and peace loving peoples to recognize our sovereignty, and welcome all the world to our nation to discuss how we might build ties of trade and diplomacy with other free peoples. What we want most is peace, prosperity, and to exercise our Goddess-given right to self-determination. We hope that the nations of the world will recognize this right, work with us to build a better future for all people, and resist the forces of slavery and oppression.

In the name of freedom and justice,

The Council of Aedora,
Daru Jon, Head of the Council
The People's Republic of Aedora

[Free Garza]

To: Queen-Matriarch Jada of the Queendom of Kehrahn; Daru Jon, Head of the Council, The People's Republic of Aedora
From: Marco Roman, Premier of the Restored Kingdom of Free Garza
Re: Recognition
Encryption: None

Senor,

It is, as advised by His Catholic Majesty, King Diego IV of Free Garza, His Catholic Majesty's Government's decision to formally recognize the independence and sovereignty of both the Queendom of Kehrahn and the People's Republic of Aedora at this time from the Feminist Empire of Deadora. As from this moment, the Restored Kingdom of Free Garza regards both nations as independent, sovereign nation-states and therefore entitled to diplomatic relations, the exchange of ambassadors, and the formulation of trade and peace agreements, among other things. If you so desire, we can begin exchanging ambassadors with both of your countries after reaching agreements on protocol regarding the same.

Sincerely,
Marco Roman, Premier of Free Garza

[West Phoenicia]

Antebellum Territory; The Confederate Kingdom of West Phoenicia.

The royal family of West Phoenicia had settled into the Winter Palace in the city-state of Antebellum Territory; West Phoenicia.

King Glenton Gryphon-Bush II was pleased with his reports from both Senator Casey Chapps his Minister of Trades, and Senator Jack Portland, his Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The visit from the delegation of Kehrahn had been a success in the eyes of the royal family and the West Phoenician Congress.

The exchange of ambassadors had taken place smoothly. Roxanne Anh, 40, Career: Politican & Feminist Poet, Skills: Poet, Militant, Inspirational speaker, Wiccan had been selected to represent West Phoenicia. She had left with a staff of 12 to work in the new established embassy in Kehrahn.

Senator Casey Chapps the Minister of Trade had worked tirelessly to come to a trade deal to assist Kehrahn. Fruits, Vegetables, Grains, Dairy and Olives were part of the trade to assist with the feeding of Kehrahn.

Aircraft parts, munitions, tank munitions were also included in the trade deal to assist Queen Jada with the defence of her nation. West Phoenician Beer and Tobacco had been included in the trade as well as both nations expressing friendly relations with each other. West Phoenicia making it known across the world that the nation of Kehrahn was a friend.

[The Shrailleeni Empire]

Recap: The Shrailleeni Response

Things had happened quickly on that fateful morning, when the Shrailleeni plan to evacuate Jennifer Thrall safely from the capital had failed and her sister Jacqueline had assumed the throne. The first thing that the highest ranks of the Shrailleeni government knew was that something had gone wrong, because Jennifer Thrall and her escort had failed to make their rendezvous in Fallows. Shrailleeni intelligence, operating out of the embassy, then reported gunfire in the Deadoran capital. No sooner had the Shrailleeni realized that something had gone wrong than Jacqueline had appeared on international news, making her accusations.

The Nadirii nobility and the Heir had been waiting to make their move against Shrailleen for some time, and Jacqueline Thrall's speech was their decisive blow. She blamed all of Deadora's problems on Shrailleeni interference, and claimed that the evacuation attempt was in fact a move by the Shrailleeni to abduct Jennifer Thrall. She accused the Mother Empress of holding her sister hostage, and demanded her return and recompense for Shrailleeni meddling. If the Mother Empress did not comply, then Deadora would go to war to get its former Matriarch Empress back. In the meantime, Jacqueline Thrall assumed her rightful place on the throne.

Of course the Enlightened Matriarchy did not have Jennifer Thrall to return her. What was worse, without Jennifer Thrall's voice lending weight to the Shrailleeni cause it was their word against that of Bryn Tegna. SISI's top priority was made the location and recovery of Jennifer Thrall, a difficult search which had to scour the capital and which was opposed at every turn by Deadora's own security forces. Some progress had been made, they had located the wreck of the helicopter which had been carrying the Empress and her entourage. But after that the trail went cold, it was as if she had simply vanished into thin air. No one seemed to have seen a woman matching her description, and desperation had made the Shrailleeni agents sloppy. Many had already been captured, and held in the dungeon of the Calla-Gold Palace to await torture and questioning.

The official response to Jacqueline Thrall's accusations was swift and straightforward. The Mother Empress herself responded to the charges, and denied every single one of them in a speech published in The Eagle's Cry.

"To my dear Child, Jacqueline Thrall, proclaimed Matriarch Empress of Deadora,

You have issued unto me an ultimatum to be met, and indeed I shall meet it, for my answer is unequivocal. Neither myself nor any in the Shrailleeni government have had any involvement whatsoever in the sudden and shocking disappearance of your sister, a woman who I have considered to be a trustworthy ally, wise confidant, and friend. You ask for her return, and were it in my power I would only gladly hasten to enable it. Her disappearance wounds me deeply, and I pray for her health and for the health of her unborn child for whom I have spared no expense in caring over these last few months.

I have not abducted your sister, nor have I authorized any kind of attack on the Calla-Gold Palace. You say that in my denying this you shall declare war upon me and all Children of the Mother Goddess. I say that if this is your first act as Matriarch Empress, then you are fool and foolish, and the swords of the Enlightened shall oppose your transgressions and shall not waver.

The wise hearts and clear minds of this region see this ploy for what it is, the actions of a jealous sister threatened by the impending birth of a new heir. If Jennifer Thrall has disappeared, as indeed seems to be the case, my heart darkens to think of what fate you may have provided for her. And so my Child I now provide for you this counter-offer, cease this pointless antagonism and renew the bonds of Sisterhood which strengthen our peoples. If your purpose is true and your actions merely misguided, place suspicion aside so that we may work together to find your sister and bring her home.

Come to the Light of the Goddess Child, or be lost in the Darkness forever."

Information regarding the incident, including confirmation of Jennifer Thrall's pregnancy and details of Shrailleen involvement with Jennifer Thrall before her disappearance, was made available to Shrailleen's allies. The Republic of Adiron, which had specifically requested information regarding the startling events in the capital, was informed not only of this, but also that Shrailleen had attempted to evacuate Jennifer Thrall from the capital and had failed.

Despite these efforts to control the situation, the Shrailleeni found themselves in a difficult position. That could not decisively prove their innocence of the situation, and had to rely on the soft power that they had accumulated in the region to deflect Jacqueline Thrall's accusations. Even worse, the new Matriarch Empress seemed to be backing up her threats with action. Deadoran divisions began to mobilize on the border with the Shrailleen Queendom of Kurungarra, and air patrols were tracked coming dangerously close to Shrailleeni air space. The Deadoran Navy in the gulf deployed as well. Finally, reliable intelligence indicated that several Deadoran divisions were mobilizing in northern Aedora, presumably for a rapid advance on Fallows.

The declaration of independence by the self-proclaimed People's Republic of Aedora was the final blow to the original Shrailleeni plan for Deadora. With Kehrahn and Deadora now in complete rebellion, Jennifer Thrall nowhere to be found, and Jacqueline Thrall refusing any kind of diplomatic contact with Shrailleen, the Imperial Palace was forced to side against Bryn Tegna to preserve what assets it still had in the country.

With this in mind, the Mother Empress Chella Resyanna fe Shrailleeni announced that the Enlightened Matriarchy of the Shrailleeni Empire would recognize both the nations of Kehrahn and Aedora, and would guarantee the independence of both states against the Empire of Deadora. In private it also made demands of both nations: from the Queendom of Kehrahn it asked for the rights of Leenic citizens to be respected and for mutual defense to be assured, and from Aedora it demanded that the Nadirii and Kehrahni living in Aedora be given full citizenship. The battlegroups in Kurungarra were mobilized along the border, and battlegroups mobilized in the home islands for Gavinium Magnus were re-routed to Dengali.

Now, it waited to see how Deadora, Kehrahn, and Aeodra would react.

[Aedora]

Fallows Worker's Chronicle
Socialist Party News

---

July, 2018

---

Aedoran Workers Rejoice, Means of Production Seized!!

Fallows - In an historic vote today, the Council of Aedora approved a law drafted by the Socialist Party to legalize the takeover of all manufacturing, plantation, and mining industries by their rightful owners: the Aedoran workers and farmers. The ownership of these vital industries by Nadirii and Kehrahnii noblewomen has nearby been utterly revoked and their assets seized, handed instead to representatives of the workers' unions.

The takeover was made official by Council vote, but had already been planned by the Socialist Party leadership for some time. Several workers' unions in Fallows had already enacted the physical takeover of their factories during the push for independence, and are now supported to the fullest extent of the law. All Aedoran industries which formerly served to enrich the empire will now be owned by the Aedoran, and it will be the responsibility of the workers' unions to institutionalize new corporate leadership and policies. All major industrial activity will now be coordinated by the Council government, which has created a Department of Industry to oversee this process.

A standard minimum wage, forty-one hour work week, and mandated benefits are all listed for future Council discussion.

From now on the money made from the exploitation of Aedoran resources will go directly into the hands of the Aedoran people. The Aedoran worker can work happily and energetically knowing that the reward will be the full value of her labor, and the construction of a stronger and more united Aedora.

In related news, another vote regarding the fate of the Nadirii and Kehrahnii currently residing in the People's Republic of Aedora failed today when only 56% of the Council voted in favor of granting full citizenship. Strong arguments for and against accepting citizenship for the former masters of Aedora have divided the Council nearly in half, and have even divided opinion within the Socialist Party. The arguments can be summarized as follows:

Those in favor of granting citizenship to Nadirii and Kehrahnii argue that the People's Republic is a democracy based on the principles of justice and fairness. Therefore, all people regardless of their ethnic origin should be able to enjoy the full rights and privileges of citizenship. Many of the Nadirii and Kehrahnii living in Aedora have done so for generations, and are our neighbors. Pragmatists argue that removing these people or denying them citizenship would ultimately be too great a strain on Aedoran resources, and point out that the Shrailleeni Empire has asked that they be integrated into society. Leenist leadership offers a more sentimental argument.

Those against granting citizenship point out that the majority of Nadirii and Kehrahnii in Aedora are active members of the Deadoran tyranny, including noblewomen, secret police, and business owners. Their loyalties are at best untested, but more likely lie with the power and wealth of Bryn Tegna upon which their own success has depended. They also argue that Aedora belongs to the Aedoran, and that if the entire province were to fall under Council control then the Nadirii and Kehrahnii would form a majority of the population. In our democracy, that would mean the death of the Aedoran revolution, the rebirth of our culture, and our right to self-government.

Strong arguments on both sides, and no doubt compromise will be necessary. But Aedoran should take heart that these debates are occurring from our own voices, in our own government. Our future is now ours to decide, whatever it might be. And the revolution has only just begun.

[New Edom]

New Edom

When the Council of Ministers arrived at the home of Cyril Donatien, the Minister of Tourism, they were greeted by a smell of Othmani coffee richly wafting through the doors. Servants bowed them in, and Donatien himself, wearing a collarless shirt and trousers, welcomed them with spread arms, saying "My home is honoured!"

Donatien's home was startlingly modern, full of electronics and conveniences. The air was cooled not just by fans but by a cold air conditioner that sent a shock through most of them. It had hardwood floors and a lot of glass and metal inside. It was said that he had a huge refrigerator from Wyrkomi that could be programmed like a computer that could be talked to like a person, and that he had some kind of robot that controlled the lights, temperature and security systems in his house.

He came from a family of Cornellian colonial decent, and was educated in Constantinople and in Avantine. His family were successful bankers and businesspeople in Fineberg who had enormously profited by the financial revival of 2014. A bright student, he gained a degree in business and went on to get another in law. For a number of years he worked for a marketing firm in Avantine but became tired of it and following an unpleasant divorce from a fellow émigré and an even more unpleasant custody case decied he wanted to return to the land of his birth. Donatien served as a volunteer for the order of the Purple Cross in Bara Province during the Anarchist Uprising and ended up acting as a senior liaison officer to the Isidium foundation. His variety of skills brought him to the notice of then Vice-Admiral Prince Elijah shalmaneser and he was one of the key minds in helping successfully spread information about the National Elections Commission’s work.

He began to work as an acting deputy minister in the Ministry of Tourism during the 3rd Civil War, at a time when it was hardly a priority, but when the Regent’s government had felt it was good to plan for the future. He did a good job of modernizing the moribund existing system, and was made Minister of Tourism following that. He had a synthesis of skills which have thus far proven very effective, was well travelled and has the strong patriotism based on personal choice that only a former émigré returned to his homeland can have.

In spite of all his devotion to modern technology and business practices, he remained, at heart, an Edomite, and was suspected to be among the most zealous religiously of the Council. He was known to be tenderly devoted to his wife and children. Once, however, these had been poliltely presented to the Council everyone moved into another room and sat, taking refreshment of lightly flaky pastries stuffed with spinach, goat's cheese and tomatoes, pistachios baked with honey and ginger and other delicacies.

The Ministers spoke. They spoke of their children, of boys who were doing well riding or facing exams, girls who were showing beauty and virtue, of in laws and properties. Count Lalery spoke happily of his marriage, which made everything awkward a moment, and General Unwerth reported that his daughter was transformed by marriage into a sober young woman.

Prince Enoch Tubal-Cain took the lead. "The King and Queen would like us to discuss the issue of what to do about Deadora. There have been many conversations in your ministries and among persons of importance throughout the country, but it is time to be wise and like the ant devote ourselves to industry and determining the path we must take now."

Hosidius Geta wiped some nut-dust on a napkin and cast it to a table. "I think it is obvious: we must not show them any cause for provocation. The concern that I and my ministers have is that any provocation on our part might lead to Kehrahn reuniting with Deadora. This would obviously give a huge advantage to them together in defeating Aedora and make Jacqueline Thrall stronger. We need to be subtle and careful. I have a good relationship with the the Kehrahni envoy."

"I would like to add to this. We have a paucity of information with regard to Deadora right now. We have lost informants in Bryn Tegna," said General Ashdod, who had eaten only enough for courtesy and mostly devoted himself to smoking and drinking. "What we do know is that there are still ties between officers in Kehrahn and in Deadora. The very fact that there are few open hostilities means that there is the possibility that it will lead to peace between them."

Donatien was quiet, observing this, waiting until he was offered a chance for input. Count Sharra, Dr. Lay, Justice Balaam, and Captain Cotta were not so shy however. They pointed out that if Deadora had cracked, or begun to crack, that they needed an honest assessment of what was possible. Count Sharra observed that Aedora was trying to build some kind of socialist paradise, and did they want to encourage that? Perhaps it was best to just let them fight it out.

Donatien asked, "Is this situation requiring a new policy entirely? It seems to me that it is. With Deadora, with Shraileen, the whole kettle of fish."

Count Lalery said that he was right. A direction for such a policy needed to be talked about, but there was also little time. He strongly advocated for what Geta was suggesting, and proposed that supporting the economies of Kehrahn and Aedora would be the best idea. He agreed with Geta. Mobilizing any force that might be capable of attacking might send fear through the remaining matriarchal states and urge them to unite. But right now, they were even experiencing open tensions with the Shrailleeni. What they must do, he proposed, was entertain talks with the Kehrahni and Aedoran representatives available to them while offering to mediate between Shrailleeni and Bryn Tegna.

"Let us offer to referee...and then we will be demonstrating a lack of being partisan." said Sharra with a nod. "I approve."

General Unwerth frowned.

"General," said Count Lalery, "With occupation in Gavinium and Hostillia, do we have forces to spare to attack Deadora?"

"Only on a strategic basis, but we could find opportunity to dominate air and water space over Magna Lacuna," growled Unwerth. "And possibly if new agreements were reached with the rebels that could be a deciding factor. Missile and air strikes would possibly tip the balance in favour of rebellions and at least weaken Deadora."

"The King would like us to have a preparatory plan for war with Deadora," said Prince Enoch Tubal-Cain bluntly. "In light of new information."

They continued to talk about the end goals of such a policy. Essentially, it would be to encourage peaceful relations with the provinces and support them in security in order to weaken Deadora and 'kill her as an imperial power' as Lalery put it. The shadow over this was that the King was suspicious. He made it clear that he saw this as due to Shrailleeni meddling and empire building of their own. The King had his own plan that they had to take seriously: the transfer of troops from different parts of the overseas territories for training exercises that would be preparation for, if need be, a strike force across Magna Lacuna. The King respected that people were haunted by the old story of the Great Cornellian War and the decimation of forces that had crossed the lake. This was a different era. Technology and communications and long distance warfare would demonstrate the effectiveness of Edomite military doctrine. He had carefully studied their campaign in Deadora and saw weaknesses he believed could be exploited. If, of course, Unwerth and Ashdod were unable to come up with an effective plan, the whole thing might have to be reconsidered. Thus far they had been very successful in maintaining the nation's military goals, and he had every confidence that this would continue to be the case.

There were, therefore, two plans: a general policy of mediation and communication accompanying maintaining FODE and diplomatic relations to soothe the conflict while accepting that it might mean a war between Shrailleen and Deadora encouraging provincial independence.They would not recognize any independence yet, but would entertain talks with the rebel envoys, finding out what they wanted, what relations they would accept, and assessing their strengths. They would also talk directly to Jacqueline Thrall. Perhaps discuss scheduling talks to discuss the continuance of the agreements laid out between the King and the Matriarch Empress Jennifer Thrall, who until further notice was, after all, the lawful monarch. This new policy was to be handed down to appropriate officials in all relevant ministries.

General Unwerth's staff were to prepare a new military plan called Operation Maccabee. The King had taken a strong personal interest in this plan and would monitor its developments closely.

[New Edom]

To: Her Imperial Majesty, the Matriarch Empress Jacqueline Thrall
From: His Imperial Majesty, the King-Emperor Elijah IV of the Holy Empire of New Edom
Subject: The Succession of Deadora
Encryption: Private

---

Your Majesty,

First let me say personally to you how much I regret the absence and probable death of your predecessor Jennifer Thrall of famous memory. She was a formidable ruler and one which I greatly respected. Unfortunately all things must come to an end.

I must inform you that, upon careful consideration, the Holy Empire of New Edom must join the Shrailleeni Empire in recognizing Kehrahni and Aedoran independence. Kehrahn has already agreed to join FODE, and Aedora will, no doubt, soon follow suit.

I realize that this must be a blow to the honour of Deadora. It may be a temptation for you to lead your nation to war. Of course I would respect, greatly, any impulse towards defending the honour of your House and your nation. I ask you, nevertheless, to take seriously my own persuasion to avoid war.

I will not appeal to you by threat, for I know your courage and that of your gallant people all too well. However you are also a pragmatic and intelligent people and so I tell you this: you have no way of winning. Kehrahn holds kinship among many of your daughters of war. They control a third of the Imperial Fleet and Army. They have also signed mutual protection agreements with my own government. The same holds true, I am sure, with regard to the Shraileeeni with regard to Aedora. Any war would be fruitless.

Recently, the Holy Empire signed the CTO agreement. WE nevertheless remain true to FODE. In the future, nations which maintain their culture against vulgar capitalist opportunism must temper it with the one area of trade that we can control: that of petroleum, the dark life’s blood of all industry. I urge you to continue with this relationship for the sake of all our prosperity. In turn, I shall offer what the Holy Empire never has: the recognition, formally, of the boundaries of Deadora as it current stands in light of our recent treaties.

I have the honour to be
Elijah IV
King-Emperor of the Holy Empire of New Edom

[The Shrailleeni Empire]

To: His Imperial Majesty, the King-Emperor Elijah IV of the Holy Empire of New Edom
From: Her Imperial Majesty, the Matriarch Empress Jacqueline Thrall
Subject: Matters of State
Encryption: Private

---

Your Majesty,

The loss of my sister has come as a great blow to myself, and to the nation. I have not given up hope that she may still be alive, but I am certain that the Shrailleeni have spirited her away in an attempt to use her life as leverage against me. I shall never be cowed by such measures, nor would my sister wish to see our great empire brought down in such a way. One day we may be reunited, but we must look to the future of our nation.

I hold no ill will toward Queen Jada. Her choice to seek independence is regrettable, but understandable. My sister's illness created much chaos and strife in the land, which I have only recently brought back under control.

But as for Aedora, I am surprised that you would support such a pack of Marxists and anarchist rebels. The People's Republic of Aedora is little more than a socialist plot disguised as a national movement. The Shrailleeni hoped to use it to weaken my rule, but as I have said I am determined not to allow them to succeed. Surely you must understand this, after what they pulled in Gloria Regis to separate it from your rule? Support Kehrahn if you wish, but I will put down this socialist insurrection, and should the Shrailleeni attempt to stop me I will defend our lands to the last drop of Deadoran blood.

I cannot believe that you would throw the lives of your people away in the name of defending a Marxist rebellion. I do not believe it. We shall reclaim the south, Shrailleeni resistance or otherwise. But you have offered something to me that is unexpected, and so I shall reciprocate. Do not rise to "Aedora's" defense, or join the insidious Shrailleeni support for them should they foolishly choose to oppose me. Demonstrate your wisdom in this matter and I shall see a way toward recognizing Queen Jada's claim to independence. As I said, I hold no ill will toward Queen Jada and I believe that there is a path toward reconciliation between us. Recognize our borders, and our right to the south, and I shall do the same for Kehrahn.

I am gladdened to hear that your joining of the CTO has not erased the commitment to FODE that we have developed together. Be aware that I have no desire to take war to the Shrailleeni themselves, I merely seek to put down an insurrection and force our wayward sisters to heel should they intervene.

With the utmost sincerity,
Jacqueline Thrall
Matriarch Empress of the Feminist Empire of Deadora

Calla-Gold Palace, Bryn Tegna

Jacqueline Thrall finished composing her reply to the King-Emperor of New Edom, delicate fingers laying down the quill and her bright emerald eyes gazing over the eloquent script with an eye toward the artistry and form. Then she stretched lithely, her toned arms rising high above her head, breasts thrust forward, and sighed contentedly.

"Thank you," she said, as if to herself. "It isn't good to compose diplomatic missives while emotional."

Several feet away, a body lay in a quivering heap. The naked, vaguely masculine form was covered in blood and heavy purple bruises, and offered only a low, pitiable moan in response.

She tilted her head and regarded him for a moment, then summoned her Matriarch of Foreign Affairs Orlena T'lok via a button conveniently placed on her desk. She lingered for more than a few minutes, waiting for the woman to arrive. Eventually she did, hurrying into the room. She was a Kehrahnii woman and therefore well aware that her loyalty would be questioned at all times. She owed her political position entirely to Jacqueline's mercy, and had already demonstrated her apt ability for diplomacy when begging for her life. As strange as it was to say, Jacqueline found that she trusted her more than anyone in the palace. Fear would keep her in line, ambition would keep her loyal.

"Your Ascendency?" she asked, glancing at the body as she bore her neck in submission.

"Ah Matriarch," Jacqueline rose from her seat gracefully, taking the message in hand and offering it to Orlena. "Please ensure that this reaches the King-Emperor would you? And summon Matriarch Errisyn D'Teyn as you leave. We will be executing Operation Exquisite Pain within the day."

"Of course Your Ascendency," she said, bowing, and turned to exit.

"Oh and Orlena?" Jacqueline called after her.

Turning around so quickly that it was obvious that she had expected this, the Foreign Affairs matriarch waited expectantly.

Jacqueline smiled.

"Send someone to clean up the shit on my carpet."

[New Edom]

Fineberg

Elijah IV smiled as he read the letter, and handed it back to Prince Enoch Tubal-Cain.

The Master of Offices was bemused. "Why are you smiling?" He asked.

Elijah smiled and replied "Because she is a fine woman, for courage, cunning and perceptive. Such a woman. In the old days...I would have gladly seized her from her stronghold.."

The Council of Ministers looked at one another with a few giving out startled laughter. This was unusual for the King-Emperor.

Still smiling, he said, "Shall we work on the draft of a letter?"

Count Sharra said, gravely, "Certainly, Your Majesty. May I say, Your Majesty's instincts were correct. It was taken as a gesture of diplomacy."

Elijah, nodding, serious again. "They respect strength and cunning."

To: Her Imperial Majesty, the Matriarch Empress Jacqueline Thrall
From: His Imperial Majesty, the King-Emperor Elijah IV of the Holy Empire of New Edom
Subject: The Succession of Deadora
Encryption: Private

---

Your Majesty,

I grieve with you for the loss of your sister.

Now: I have carefully reflected on the issue of Aedoran socialism. I am, naturally concerned about the politics and economics. Nevertheless, as you say, Aedora is currently under the protection of the Shrailleeni Empire. Therefore, I, and my advisors believe that we can persuade our allies to make appropriate adjustments. After all, the Shrailleeni have already been making adjustments to domestic policy in Gloria Regis, which, as you are aware, had a tendency towards political extremism. This might be the better measure in this case.

Of course I shall take appropriate measures to negotiate for a scaling down of socialist policies in Aedora, rest assured, and while recognizing the country will be our intention, I shall not be recognizing Aedora while it remains socialist.

I am concerned about possible enmity with the Shrailleeni. Naturally I would not condone the abduction of a Deadoran Monarch. I shall be inquiring into the matter. For the time being, I shall recognize your borders are they are currently existing between Deadora, Kehrahn, and states outside. We will leave pending the recognition of Aedora until we are satisfied with her political status.

I shall have my foreign ministry initiate discussions of the precise terms of territorial boundaries.


I look forward

I have the honour to be
Elijah IV
King-Emperor of the Holy Empire of New Edom

[Kehrahn]

The High Council of State
Kehrahn City,
Kehrahn

Princess Vanessa rode a few hundred meters from her home to the Queen’s official residence, on her magnificent chestnut stallion. Her personal maidservant and her military aide from the 1st Guards Regiment, both mounted, escorted her, the horses’ hooves thundering along the evenly mowed lawn. Gelded gardeners scurried out of the way hastily, as Princess Vanessa looked neither left nor right, eyes on her goal. The Royal Palace was at the crest of the hill. Vanessa could have walked, but this was a very formal occasion and tradition demanded that she arrive on horseback. She wore flowing red diaphanous robes over a red bustier, that flew around her body like a veil of blood, a short red skirt and knee length lace-up red boots. Around her narrow waist was a slender silver chain on which hung a short sword in a jeweled silver scabbard.

Stasia Dragona, the Queen’s second maidservant stood at the bottom of the wide steps leading up the entrance hall with a squad of guards, all in formal uniforms of dark blue leotards and knee high boots. They wore ceremonial short swords in their belts. The metal on their uniforms was polished to high gloss. At Stasia’s nod, one of the guards came forward and took Vanessa’s horse and two others did the same for her escorts. All three swung down from their saddles. The squad formed up and stood to attention and saluted. Vanessa returned their salute and proceeded up the steps, followed by her escorts, with the squad of guards bringing up the rear. The Queen was in the main reception hall, standing by the throne. Aurelia and her maidservant and aide had already arrived.

“Your Royal Daughters have arrived, Majesty,” announced Stasia.

“I can see that,” beamed Jada. The Queen, who had long dark brown wavy hair and a lightly tanned complexion, wore her ceremonial robes of semi-diaphanous silver clasped at her small waist with a slim white gold stomacher belt. The outlines of her finely sculpted body were clearly visible to all, as was traditional at this very formal meeting. She wore the ancient jewel-encrusted crown, made long ago and the royal scepter was in her hand. On her feet she wore very high stiletto heeled thong sandals with the laces criss-crossing up her calves almost to her knees. Following her were members of her own family. The other parts of the Royal Council were arriving as well--Matriarch of War Vang, Matriarch of Foreign Affairs Olonna and others. The Queen and her two elder daughters embraced warmly before they stepped down and sat on the royal dias below the throne. Lisu T'rel, a dark slim brunette, the Queen’s Political advisor, stood near the dias, quietly watchful. An air of tension was in the room.

“Secure the doors,” announced the Queen. “Let all under my gaze be vowed to keep the secrets stated in this chamber.”

“Let it be so,” the women present echoed, baring their necks.

“My daughter, Princess Vanessa, has a report for us. Please make it, my love,’ said Queen Jada.

“It is beyond dispute, my Mother, that Deadora prepares for war. Our informants have told us that they appear to be preparing to move four divisions towards Aedora. Supplies appear to be gathering for that purpose. We anticipate appropriate air support towards that effect.” Vanessa informed the room.

Queen Jada nodded slowly. “Matriarch Vang?”

“Army Matriarch Dahlteya Aiadi is ready to repel an invasion with the 3rd Army Group. Air support can be provided with our Navy,” the Matriarch of War replied, her icy eyes meeting the Queen’s briefly before being lowered deferentially. “We had begun readying their deployments, canceling any leaves, making sure adequate ammunition, munitions and supplies were in readiness.”

Vang continued. “I and II Corps hold our borders against Deadora, and we are prepared for a defense in depth to protect our sacred capital.”

“Will it be enough?” wondered Olonna, the Foreign Matriarch. “What of their greater numbers? They have a full army group near our border. What of the foreign support we were to gain?”

Queen-Matriarch Jada replied, “We shall have help. From the Edomites.”

None were truly surprised. This had been building for some time. Nevertheless, it wa now naked and open. Eyes glanced around, breath was sucked in, faces went blank with effort to control expressions.

“Now that it’s said openly,” Princess Vanessa said, “It sounds so strange. It is so strange. Always, men kept in their proper place. Never large bodies of them armed. So it is throughout South Acheron. From Solisia’s islands to our lands, women in their rightful place, men in theirs. Will they truly put boots on our soil? I find it hard to believe.”

“The New Edomites are such cowards,” said Vang, glancing up at her.. “Always sneaking around like foxes. Yet we do not have the air power or missile power to face Deadora alone.”

“And I have decided this,” said Jada. She leaned forward. Her eyes burned into those of the other women present. Her voice was warm, strong, caressed the ears of those who looked up at her. “It was I who was put forward, to take the risks and reap the rewards of leadership. We seized our independence under my leadership. This new nation issues from me. Before the womb opens, the blood comes forth. Life there will be but first there must be blood. First the vulnerable thighs spread, and fierce the hands and thoughts protecting even as we prepare to risk. We are now at the real birthing-stool of our nation. I will lead us to this and bring forth a new era. Do any of you doubt me now?”

Her daughters, advisors and the other Ministers one by one vied with one another to first offer the pommels of their blades and the baring of their necks. “No, Matriarch-Queen! Your Radiance has my heart and service!”

“Mark my words though: we never bare our necks to the patriarchs! They will serve us, not we them! This I vow on my life and House! Never!” Queen Jada said fiercely.

[American Pere Housh]

President Isabella Jones is going over intelligence reports on her encrypted tablet when she comes across a report on Kehrahn. "Hmmm... A bunch of feminist ruling a country, sounds interesting. It's probably those third wave feminists that scream that it was the patriarchy's fault for everything wrong.

To the Queen of Kehrahn

The Confederate Republic has been watching the situation going on in your country with interest for quite some time. Even though I am woman myself as well as several department heads, we disagree with your form of feminism as it is sexist toward men. We will remain neutral in this conflict but we will be watching closely with this conflict.

Sincerely,
President Isabella Jones
The Confederate Republic of American Pere Housh

[McNernia]

OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUE OF THE KINGDOM OF MCNERNIA
OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER OF THE KINGDOM OF MCNERNIA

---

TO:His Royal and Imperial Majesty Elijah IV, King-Emperor of New Edom
FROM:Prime Minister Andrew Holtworth of the Kingdom of Mcnernia
SEC:STANDARD
SUB:Recognition of the Queendom of Kehrahn

---

Greetings


Greetings, we in Parliament today voted to recognize the independence of the Queendom of Kehrahn from the Deodoran Empire. And as such we are prepared to cooperate with New Edom in resolving the crisis that the Queendom faces from the Deodoran Empire. I am also the bearer of news via this message that Parliament is concerned about the issue of Aedora and hopes that you have some sort of plan. Wiether it be diplomatic or military to eliminate the socialist menace.


In all things HM Government stands by the allies we have made.

Sincerely,

A.Holtworth, Prime Minister

---

OFFICIAL COMMUNIQUE OF THE KINGDOM OF MCNERNIA
OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER OF THE KINGDOM OF MCNERNIA

---

TO:Her Royal Majesty Queen Jada I of Kehrahn
FROM:Prime Minister Andrew Holtworth of the Kingdom of Mcnernia
SEC:STANDARD
SUB:Recognition

---

Greetings

On behalf of His Royal Majesty Emilion IV King of Mcnernia and Head of the Commonwealth I Prime Minister Andrew Holtworth do hearby extend to the Queendom of Kehrahn full diplomatic recognition and under the obligations of all nations we are most inclined to offer whatever military assistance you may need due to the crisis you face.

Sincerely,

A.Holtworth, Prime Minister