LGBT Protestors Attacked by Government Forces (MT)

[New Visayan Islands]

TO: The Foreign Ministry of the Holy Empire of New Edom
FROM: The Visayan Embassy to New Edom
RE: LGBT Riots

Based on information provided by some of those who took shelter in our Embassy, we have the names of several persons of interest. For the sake of convenience, we have made two separate lists, one for those currently in our Embassy and another for those who are not.

1. Martin Hood - team leader
2. Emily Bradford - team leader
3. Obadiah Carson - group leader
4. Claire Johnson - group leader

1. Albert Wilson - group leader
2. Angela Michaels - group secretary
3. Leah Martin - block secretary
4. Jeremiah Winston - block treasurer

From what the Persons of Interest taking refuge in our Embassy tell me, there are (or were) several levels of hierarchy in the riots, with each leader responsible for mobs of various sizes. Note the the use of "team," "group," and "block" are approximations of size, each term representing increasing levels of command and/or degrees of responsibility.

As for the call to release those who have taken refuge in our Embassy, we will honor that request as long as those taking refuge have not requested for asylum; to that end, we request that someone from your ministry be present to validate their requests, even if those requests come from the Persons of Interest mentioned as currently in our Embassy. Depending on what the information provided by those persons may lead to, we may offer them asylum under the Witness Protection Program.

As always, I remain here in the Embassy to represent Visayan interests in New Edom.

Sincerely,

(Sgd.)
Dominic Kang, MBA
Ambassador
Visayan Embassy to New Edom

Emilio Jose Kanazawa
Visayan Embassy to New Edom

"...and how much was offered to you in return for your cooperation in the riots?" Kanazawa was working like a madman; with half the names provided by Martin Hood proving a match to three more newcomers, the Legal Attaché was getting busy. Names led to more names, and Kanazawa found himself unraveling a web.

As his current subject provided a value and the equivalent in Universal Standard, he started to wonder how deep the proverbial rabbit hole went.

Dominic Kang
Visayan Embassy to New Edom

Dominic was seated in his office as he pored over the reports from Donald, Emilio, and Paula. Names were on Emilio's report, with a note saying that those were what he had found at the moment. A report from Donald confirmed that half the names on the initial list from Emilio were listed among the newcomers, while Paula's report indicated that VIA assets were still trying to confirm the validity of the information provided by a Martin Hood et al.

He lit up another cigarette--the sixth this shift--as he tried to reach out to his daughters, who were still at school when the unrest began. He didn't know that their phones had run flat by the time the unrest ended; with no immediate access to a charger, they were essentially cut off at the moment.

[Vionna-Frankenlisch]

Official Communique of His Imperial Majesty's Government

United Kingdom of Vionna-Frankenlisch

---

To: Hosidius Geta, Foreign Minister of New Edom
From: Larry Tristram, Foreign Minister of Vionna-Frankenlisch

Your Excellency,

The United Kingdom of Vionna-Frankenlisch and, more importantly, His Imperial Majesty's Government most sincerely apologises for the transgressions of His Imperial Majesty's representative in New Edom. The events of yesterday's misunderstanding are not to be repeated in future and it is my sad duty to dismiss Sir Michael Dobson from the Foreign Office entirely, a duty which I will carry out hopefully before next week. I'm sure that you understand that Sir Michael is an older man and his daughter means the world to him, I assure you that his actions were simply those of a worried father and are by no means to be associated with His Imperial Majesty's Government.

I hope that we can mend those wounds on our national relations that Sir Michael's actions may have caused.

Yours, with the greatest of respect,

Larry Tristram

---

Tinchmarie, Kingdom of Frankenlisch
Marie Manor

---

Rear Admiral Sir Septimus Barret was still dazed from the ceremony. 'Knight of the Maritime Order of Valksland...' He considered, giddily. In 1989 he was the youngest serving Captain in the Imperial Navy. He had lost his ship that same year, he had almost lost an arm too, he was certain that the Board of Inquiry would break him. Needless to say, it did not. He cleared of all responsibility, the board citing his excellent command in combat throughout Operation Overdrive and his superb ability in trying to save his ship and eventually, evacuate it. Not only was he saved from the, usually capital, charge of 'Failing to do one's utmost' but he was, in fact, promoted. He was Commodore at age 20, the youngest man in Imperial history to achieve such a feat. During the 1991-92 Prodavan Sovereignty Crisis, he was brevetted Rear Admiral and put in command of Operation Hallencara. There he was wounded again but secured his promotion to Rear Admiral.

Still, throughout all the fighting he had seen, he did not expect to be sitting where he sat that day, in his very own country home in the little village of Tinchmarie. Tinchmarie sat quite comfortably in the southern area of the Duchy of Riverland, named on most maps as the Duchy of Lawrenceville, albeit erroneously. He not only sat in his own manor, but he sat opposite Lucius Darrington, his own (Conservative) party's Chief Whip.

"So... To business then?" Darrington asked, sick of the pleasantries, of the tea and sherry and small cakes.

"Of course." Barret replied, bluntly.

"We need an officer. One of our own."

Barret already knew what that meant. "What do you want this officer to do."

"The powers that be," Darrington explained, "Have decided that the time has come to cut the crap with this New Edom situation. Zimmermann and the Conservatives in his cabinet don't give a shit about LGBT rights abroad, it isn't any of our business, and we have to support the Edomites whether or not we think they're bastards."

"Do we think they're bastards?" Barret asked, interrupting.

"Count Lalery and his clique are. The others, especially the monarchy, vary from case to case. Anyway, the PM and the Foriegn Minister were discussing the prospect of military support. In light of threats New Edom has recieved."

"Are you offering me command, Mister Darrington?" Barret was quite intrigued. "What would such a force consist of?"

"Two destroyers, two frigates." Darrington admitted. "However, Sir Rowan Henson has wrestled a carrier from the Merchant Navy. Plus, as the commanding admiral, you would have your pick of the Imperial Battlecruiser Fleet, after all, a Rear Admiral could not fly his flag aboard a mere destroyer."

"Dauntless." Barret said, his mind already made up. Not only was she the lead ship of her class, and a very capable ship at that, but his daughter commanded her marines and he would give his legs to see her again.

"We thought you'd say that." Darrington muttered, smiling. "You'll have your orders as soon as we can get into contact with New Edom." Darrington held out his hand, "Thank you, Sir Barret."

Barret smiled, his knightly title giving him great delight, "Thank you, Mister Darrington."

[Cossack Khanate]

Fineberg, New Edom

Lieutenant Oslo Dusk walked up the stairs of the Edomite foreign affairs building. He passed several worried diplomats and hurrying people in suits and formals of the sort. He himself was dressed in a black suit with a dark blue tie, purposefully in the colors of the Khanate. He crossed the wide lobby to reception desk, where he stated his business:

“I am Lieutenant Oslo Dusk, sent on behalf of Foreign Affairs from the Cossack Khanate. My government would like me to discuss some matters with the relevant Edomite officials”

“Ok, I will send your case up to the office, and you will be called in shortly. Please have a seat”, said the woman at the desk.

“Ok then, Thank you”

Dusk walked over to the sitting area, lined with plush leather couches and fine chairs. He sat himself down, and wrote his thoughts down in his notebook. After a while, he was called up and into an office...

[Kylarnatia]

Embassy of the Imperium Antiquum, Fineberg
The Holy Empire of New Edom

An hour after Lucilia's conversation with Geta, the commotion was finally beginning to settle, and the staff of the Embassy were able to get their bearings completely straight. They completed a full head-count just before it started to get dark: just over one hundred and thirty protesters had taken refuge in the embassy and its grounds, with a further fifty or so queuing outside. Of all of those, eleven required some form of medical attention, though luckily all relatively minor: stitches, minor sprains, a concussion here and there. Those medically trained amongst both the security and domestic staff did their best to tend to them, with only one or two people having to be handed over to the care of local healthcare authorities, though they weren't let go first without having their details taken and having an appointment card issued to them. If they didn't return in due time, the Embassy would make inquiries.

Once the head-count was completed, those inside the embassy were arranged into different groups. First, the most vulnerable - those with injuries, elderly or disabled, even any young children - had been moved into the manor house, then the rest either took refuge inside and when there was no more adequate room, stayed in the grounds outside. After this was settled they were divided into two further groups: those with some form of identification on hand and those without, of which there was an almost seventy-to-thirty percent split. Those with identification would be somewhat quicker and easier to process as with the cooperation of the New Edomite Ministry's of Police and Justice, they could be quickly identified and so long as they were not directly highlighted by the system, could get through the asylum process relatively easily. Those without would have to be documented extensively, interviewed at greater length, and then a game of "who's who" would have to commence with the New Edomite authorities. At Ambassador Crassa's insistence the two groups would be processed at the same time so as to keep everyone calm and content that things were moving. Quintus' quick thinking back on Embassy Row had also helped calm the nerves of those both inside and outside the embassy, with the Edomite Purple Cross coming to provide ample aid in the form of blankets and medicine, as well as much needed water. Lucilia had also requested their assistance in providing food, for which the Embassy would foot the bill.

As the evening set in, the Imperium Antiquum's Ambassador spoke to the crowds personally, using a megaphone while standing on her balcony overlooking the entire complex. She explained to them what was going to happen, which would be put out in an official statement first thing in the morning, and that they were at liberty to stay if they wished and genuinely feared for their lives. Those who wished to leave the Embassy - either because they feared for loved ones outside, or for any other reason - were welcome to do so at any time, and would have their details taken and an appointment card issued. Unsurprisingly, next to nobody inside the Embassy's walls took the latter offer, only those queuing outside who couldn't fit inside having to reluctantly accept and give over their details, before taking their appointment cards and clutching them with their lives as they tried to find a safe way home. If they even had a home to go back to.

That night, despite having their own beds to sleep in, the Embassy's senior staff probably slept the least out of anybody on the grounds. Quintus didn't sleep at all, opting to do shifts along with the security personnel under his command so as to share the responsibility, refusing Lucilia's pleas for him to get some rest. "I'll rest when the Caesar's Auxilia arrive, and then only for a second." He had told her. She had also stayed up quite late, along with Theo and Gabinia, all three of them trying to piece together the series of unfortunate events from that day based off what had come through on the domestic news sources as well as the multitude of official statements made from the Edomites. There was something oddly comforting, but also absolutely terrifying, in the fact that the Edomite authorities seemed just as mixed up as they were. Or perhaps it was all just an act; who could say. Theo had speculated that their mixed messaging revealed a divide in the powers that be, though how deep it ran and in what direction was anyone's guess. For now only a few things were certain: Fineberg had been rocked by an apparently unsanctioned protest gone wrong, causing still undetermined numbers of casualties and mass looting and damage in the city, the noise of which could be faintly heard in the distance as militiamen ruthlessly cracked down.

Yet, as Lucilia hurried the two of them off to bed and took one last look outside from her balcony, she could not help but notice the tranquilness of the Embassy. The crowds outside had huddled together, using the many blankets given to them and themselves to keep warm, and nobody seemed to mind that they were in the open air or on the ground; clearly, it was still much better to be in here and safe than it was to be out there. Around them the Embassy guard's stood their watch, only moving around occasionally to make sure that their head-count was still correct. Content with the scene before her, the Ambassador eventually answered the call to sleep.

---

The next morning started with the usual routine: breakfast, followed by the morning prayer to the Grand Mother at the shrine in the Embassy ground's. The crowds outside stirred pretty early due to first light, and the sound they caused eventually awoke everyone else. Everyone was relatively calm, talking to one another in hushed voices, trying to get a sense of the reality of things. Embassy staff handed out a few copies of that morning's newspaper, making sure they were passed around occasionally so that everyone got the chance to read. As more read the first official stories, there was a growing unease as people began to worry more about their friends and loved ones outside, and what the events of the previous day meant for them in the long-run. They were given a further moment of respite though as the Purple Cross had returned, as promised, this time with a van or so full of non-perishable snacks and vegetarian package meals, enough for some to be handed around now, with others being taken and stockpiled in the basement of the building.

As the displaced ate, some being able to break a smile and laugh halfheartedly amongst themselves as they allowed themselves to momentarily forget the previous days events, Lucilia knelt on a cushion before the shrine to the Grand Mother in the open air, watched over by Quintus and her other members of senior staff. Incense burning, the statue - displaying the naked form of a woman, wreathed in flame and with a ring of angelic wings on her back, her arms outstretched to her sides as if ready to embrace - was surrounded by a small body of water, a plaque next to it explaining that the water originated from the mighty Seraphis River, the lifeblood of the Kylarnatian homeland. Bathing the statue with various ritual oils, Lucilia then washed her face before the shrine and bowed her head, saying a short prayer. A few members of the crowd looked on in curiosity, some intrigued by the meaning of the foreign ritual and others being reminded to say their own prayers. Raising her head and opening her eyes, the Ambassador rose to her feet and gave one last recognition of the shrine and it's natural splendor before turning to face her staff.

"Our phones and e-mail inboxes have been inundated with messages since we came out of shutdown. We've got messages from concerned families looking for their loved ones, as well as a considerable number of Kylarnatian workers and tourists asking whether they should return home in the wake of yesterday's events." Gabinia Auila spoke first, having dressed in a colorful blue pinstriped suit so as to give a friendly and approachable demeanor, a silver brooch in the shape of a mockingjay adorned her jacket. Lucilia had come to regard her in the short time they had worked together as a trusted confidant, and more than capable of handling the Embassy's quite often busy communication's team. Now things had gotten even more intense, she was extremely grateful for her.

"Try your best to match messages with people who we can identify as we see them, but right now we simply don't have the manpower to respond to everyone. Make sure to include that in our statement at the top of the hour."

"Still no word on what's exactly going on across Fineberg right now, aside from brutal crackdowns. I imagine we'll hear more today as to what is going on. For now I think we better reach out to the other Embassy's here on Embassy Row, and see what they're doing in regards to asylum seekers." Theo Calerus looked far less shaken than he did the other day, as if he had been filled with a renewed resolve to get the job done. Lucilia knew he still wasn't best pleased with the agreement she had brokered with the Edomite Foreign Ministry, particularly as the authorities still hadn't named anyone definitively responsible for the outbreak of the violence. Yet he was as clever as he was empathetic, and the Ambassador trusted that her Cultural Auxiliatrix, who was almost twice her age and looked it - with a receding hairline and tweed attire that made him look like a Professor who had been misplaced by his university - would make the right calls when it came to it.

"When we can spare them, send some runners out to Embassies who we know for sure are taking in other asylum seekers and pass notes along with my office number. I want to speak to my counterparts and get the gist of what their take is on the situation and anything that they know which we don't, and see if there isn't anything we can all do to provide a united voice on this issue. Let's start with the New Visayans, the Ruvians, the McNernians and the Vionna-Frankenlischians. From them we might also learn of more who will be willing to talk to us."

Now walking inside the main doors of the Embassy, doing their best not to disturb the handing out of breakfast by the Purple Cross volunteers, Lucilia and her staff made it up the first few steps before Quintus shared his news. "I've been in contact with the commanding officer of the squad of Auxilia who have been assigned to our security detail. He tells me that they will be leaving their base shortly and will likely arrive here in Fineberg within the next ten to fourteen hours, along with the second wave of emergency administrative staff. They've also been tasked with delivering aid courtesy of the Imperatrix Fund."

"And the first wave should be arriving within the hour. Ten fresh faces from the lower rungs of the Ministry of Foreign and Imperial Affairs, so I'm told."

"Well, at least they won't be able to complain about shuttling paperwork back and forth all-day anymore. They're getting to see some real action!" Theo's statement reeked with mocking enthusiasm. Only Quintus, despite perhaps having the most serious and stone-faced demeanor of the senior staff, seemed to appreciate it by allowing himself to crack a small smile.

Lucilia stopped them all at the top of the first landing, which then split off into two further staircases going left and right. All huddling round her in a semi-circle, the Ambassador puffed out her chest just slightly. "The hard work starts now, everyone. We need to be on our A-game from now and until this 'crisis' ends, whenever that may be. We have a statement going out at the top of the hour, and I've been informed by the Ministry that the Caesar has written a personal communique to the King-Emperor. While of course the contents of that communique will be private, I have faith that she will put in a good word for us. I've also been told that the Ministry is doing what it can to help us from their end, but most of the responsibility is going to fall on us. Let's make this count. Fiat."

Embassy of the Imperium Antiquum
Fineberg, New Edom
Official Statement

BY THE GRACE OF HER IMPERIAL MAJESTY SILVIER CATHERINA SILVANUS, FOURTH OF HER NAME, CAESAR OF THE IMPERIUM ANTIQUUM KYLARNATIAE AND HER PEOPLE, SUPREME COMMANDER OF ALL HER IMPERIAL ARMED FORCES, PONTIFEX MAXIMUS OF THE SILVIER SACERDOTIUM, LORD OF GHOLGOTH, AD INFINITUM:

The Rt. Hon. Legatus Lucilia Crassa, Her Imperial Majesty's duly appointed representative to the Holy Empire of New Edom, wishes to express her deepest sadness in light of the recent violence that has overtaken the beautiful city of Fineberg. She, along with the rest of the staff here at the Embassy, want to convey our heartfelt sympathy to the fine residents of this city we have already begun to call our "home away from home." While the exact causes of the violence are yet to be determined, both we here in Fineberg and the Ministry of Foreign and Imperial Affairs in Krytopia are hopeful that those responsible will soon be brought to justice, and that normality will eventually resume, though it is already clear to see that this series of unfortunate events will have wide-reaching ramifications.

The relations between the Imperium Antiquum and the Holy Empire are still relatively young, and at this stage we are still very much trying to get to know one another. While it is no secret that we hold vastly different views, be it on faith or even indeed on the rights of the LGBT+ community, we both strongly believe in a nation's right to self-determination and to choose it's own path. We are hopeful that despite recent events, constructive conversations will continue on the LGBT+ community here in New Edom, and we are more than willing to give our voice to that dialogue should the Holy Empire's citizens or government ask of it. That aside, we shall not seek to pass our own judgement on Edomite domestic affairs, as it is not our place to do so in the present circumstances with so many things still unclear.

Legatus Crassa had a very constructive phone conversation with the Rt. Hon. Hosidius Geta, Minister of Foreign Affairs yesterday afternoon, where they came to an understanding as to how to proceed in light of recent events. The Imperium Antiquum's Foreign Mission's work on a universal set of mandates, laid forth by our Caesar and her government, and most pertinent in this case is the Mandate to Assist and Protect: It is the prerogative of this Embassy, as it is of all Embassies of the Imperium, to hear and arbitrate on all requests for asylum. As many will already be aware, yesterday's violence caused a massive influx of asylum seekers into our Embassy grounds, most of whom - despite at liberty to leave - have chosen to remain until their requests for asylum are properly processed and decided upon. Until that time, it is the policy of our Embassy as laid forth in the Mandate that no persons shall be forcibly removed if they are requesting asylum and the Embassy has reason to believe there are grounds for that request. Mr. Geta has been informed of this, and both he and the Foreign Ministry are cooperating with our mission. We thank him and his staff deeply for their understanding in this matter.

To that end, this statement is to make it publicly aware that the Embassy of the Imperium Antiquum will be resuming normal business from today, but that visitors should expect longer delays in processing their queries. The Embassy will be increasing it's staff from today to help deal with the increased demand, but we stress that all non-urgent matters will not be addressed until a more appropriate time arises. We have also received a large number of phone calls and e-mails from distressed residents of Fineberg trying to locate lost family members and loved ones: please be aware that while we will try our best to assist you, we will not be able to respond to you directly at this time unless the person you're looking for does come to our attention. We thank you for your understanding, and our prayers are with you at this time.

The Embassy here in Fineberg would like to express our thanks also to the Edomite Purple Cross, for assisting us in providing aid and support to those currently in our care.

Once again, our thoughts are with all the residents of Fineberg and the citizens of the Holy Empire. May the Grand Mother's warmth embrace you during these trying times.

---

---

CAESAR SILVIER CATHERINA SILVANUS IV
"Aut vincere, aut mori. Aut concilio, aut ense."
[ PRIVATE MISSIVE - SECURE TRANSFER ]

Your Imperial Majesty,

I wish I were writing to you under happier circumstances. I felt it only appropriate that I write to you personally, to express my deepest sympathies over the tragic events that have unfolded in Fineberg. What occurred is most regrettable, and I hope that with due process and proper investigation, those responsible for the damage and loss of life caused will be brought to justice and peace will be restored to your fine city. In these most trying of times, know that I am prepared and willing to continue fostering the new relations between our two great nations, and to that end am willing to provide you whatever I can to assist you, even if it is just my private counsel.

As I'm sure you are already aware, my Embassy in New Edom is currently dealing with a large influx of asylum seekers as a result of the outbreak of violence yesterday. While I know you and your government are keen for these people to return to their homes, I must inform you that my embassies are under strict instruction to hear all cases for asylum, especially in the wake of an appropriate cause, which the events of the past day count as one. However, I wanted to reassure you personally that the Embassy is more than willing to cooperate with your government - as I'm sure again, you are aware - but also encourage you and your government to continue to do the same, as I strongly believe that doing so will help bring some calm and stability back to Fineberg, as well as help demonstrate the Holy Empire's fair and just approach to these matters, contrary to what some may say.

If this is to be our only correspondence on this matter, know that restraint and an open mind are vital in addressing these situations. Those responsible will want you to be heavy-handed in your approach, and you must not let them abuse your good nature and principles to act in a way that will only help to strengthen their own cause. To be measured in ones response is to show greater strength, and will inspire the confidence of your people, both in you and in your government. As I am sure you are a wise man, this may not be new to you, but as a leader you must lead by that example to your ministers and all those below them.

Grand Mother's blessings upon you, your Queen and your people in these trying times.

[Kylarnatia]

[OOC: Kylarnatian Imperial News International is the main state-owned news service in Kylarnatia, tasked with covering news objectively. Thanks to New Edom for contributions.]

LGBT+ Protests in Fineberg devolve into Violence and Civil Unrest
^{By Josie Whitehall (@josiewhitehall) and Malchus Curzon (@theonemalchus)}

Protesters in Fineberg prior to the outbreak of violence

Fineberg, New Edom - What started as a large-scale protest against the New Edomite government's policy towards homosexuality and the wider LGBT+ movement quickly devolved into scenes of violence and civil unrest yesterday in the Holy Empire's capital of Fineberg. Authorities have yet to release any official figures, but there have been a multitude of unofficial reports claiming mass arrests, as well as significant injuries and even death. Scenes of mass looting and rioting also swept over the retail districts for a brief time before order was restored.

The cause for the outbreak of violence has yet to be determined, with King-Emperor Elijah IV declaring in a public statement that: "...I intend to make sure that a thorough investigation is undertaken as to why the violence took place. Who began it and who ended it, what the conduct of the authorities whose responsibility public safety was upon that day in Fineberg, and who therefore is responsible, demonstrater (sic) and authority alike." Witnesses, as well as commentators both domestic and abroad, have been quick to pin blame on a variety of suspects: some claim that the protesters, who the New Edomite authorities have established as having organized without sanction to do so, were responsible, while some protesters themselves have claimed the authorities who responded were responsible. A multitude of videos have surfaced online, showing militiamen beating down protesters with clubs, and in one graphic case another being slashed with a machete. The authorities of the City of Fineberg have declined to comment on the videos, but stress that they are prepared to cooperate with any investigation.

The Organization for Free Expression, one of the groups responsible for organizing yesterday's protests, is an organization that encourages freedom of political assembly, known to support the right to protest and to speak on behalf of LGBT interests as well as marginal political and economic views. When approached for comment on the news that an investigation was to be held to determine the cause of yesterday's violence, a spokesperson said:

"Galatians 3:28 reads “In Christ there is no Jew or Greek, slave or citizen, male or female." We take this to mean that the righteousness of Man does not equal the righteousness of heaven. All societies do their best to be moral, but we know that all are fallen short of the glory of God. Because of this, we believe that every person should have the right to debate, discuss, and persuade on moral issues. We should be able to do this free of threats or harm. Yesterday, we demonstrated peacefully and were treated violently in response. We humbly beg Their Majesties that the inquiry be made open to the public so that we may know that justice is being done. We beg Their Majesties to accept that the voices of the Edomite people cannot remain suppressed, and that those who advise Their Majesties that they must stand between them and their own people are wrong. We do not wish to spread revolution, but peaceful and friendly agreement and disagreement as free people and children of God. Let the wounds be bound up and the voices freed."

An initial statement from the New Edomite Princess Jocasta, which blamed the terrorist organization known as Homofront for yesterday's events, was quickly dismissed by a hurried statement from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, which claimed the cause was still unknown. This in turn was followed much later by the King-Emperor's more measured response, who along with the investigation promised to meet with all interested parties on both sides to "address grievances". He also warned against foreign state intervention.

However, there have already been calls among some foreign states to intervene, or at least condemn the violence. Take for example the dramatic scenes that occurred in the most recent session of the Vionna-Frankenlischian House of Commons, where Arthur Aston, Leader of the Imperial Party - junior coalition partner of the ruling Conservative Party - broke ranks and put pressure on his coalition partner and Prime Minister, Count Dochlov Zimmermann, to condemn the actions of the government of New Edom. Meanwhile in Kylarnatia, the government has refrained from making any official statement, though the Concilium Populi's Select Committee on Foreign Affairs plans to hold an emergency session to discuss the violence and the Imperium's response.

A number of foreign states have become embroiled in the events happening in Fineberg due to a number of embassies, including that of the Imperium Antiquum, taking in fleeing protesters as violence broke out. The Imperium Antiquum's embassy has released an official statement saying that they have reached an agreement with the New Edomite Foreign Ministry to be able to address the high level of request's for asylum, all of which need to be heard due to the Mandate to Assist and Protect.

New Edom is a member of the Santiago Anti-Communist Treaty Organization (SACTO), with a number of fellow co-signatories coming out in support of the Edomite government in light of the violence. It is yet unknown whether SACTO will step up their military presence in the country, though two Nifonese G-17M Ginga strategic bombers have already made their presence known.

Malchus Curzon is Kylarnatian Imperial News International's Chief Edomite correspondent, reporting from Fineberg. Josie Whitehall is the Chief Editor of Foreign Affairs for Kylarnatian Imperial News International, reporting from Krytopia.

• Concilium Populi Select Committee on Foreign Affairs holds emergency session
• Opinion: Fineberg - A City Torn Apart

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© Kylarnatian Imperial News International

[Greater Carloso]

SIERRA Team, Hotel Beroth, Fineberg, New Edom

---

The hotel SIERRA Team had checked into was nothing out of the ordinary. There were three separate bedrooms, each with a modestly sized single bed. The decor looked a bit dated, a mixture of pale blue and green, though then again it wasn't exactly the most high-market of hotels either. There was a small communal kitchen with a table, some chairs, a sofa and an almost ancient-looking grey CRT television. Mencia had placed their laptop on the kitchen table, while Delgado eyed the streets below with a pair of binoculars. Little had changed since earlier, though there appeared to be still a very heavy police presence in and around Embassy Row from what he could tell. The TV was blaring in the background, breaking news that King Elijah and Queen Mara were visiting the site of the violence, comforting the injured and conversing with local security personnel. Acton, meanwhile, had her hand wrapped around a cup of coffee, examining a large map of Fineberg and the surrounding area. Delgado had drawn several large, red 'X' marks on locations throughout the cities and suburbs, with his notoriously hard to read handwriting scribbled beside each one. "So what are these for, Delgado?" Acton asked.

"The homes and workplaces of certain persons of interest to our investigation." Delgado replied, "Some of them are the heads of organisations involved in this little stunt; the Edomite Freedom Coalition; the Organisation for Free Expression and now this so-called Church Human Rights Interests Syndicate of the Tabernacle aka 'CHRIST'. There's a list of communes down there as well. Apparently they are very popular with member of this 'LGBT' community."

Delgado walked away from the balcony and reached for his suitcase, rummaging around before producing a large vellum envelope. "New Edom has an interesting history with Homofront, Ms Acton." he said, slamming the envelope down on the table and using a knife to cut the piece of cellotape that was sealing it closed. There was an array of assorted profiles inside, with a plethora of photos and personal information on each individual concerned. "Homofront first arose in 2015 after the destruction of Sodom Front at the hands of the Nifonese authorities. Sodom Front made the mistake of being too centralised, so when its leaders were arrested, everything quickly fell apart, but those who escaped learnt from their mistakes." Delgado explained, "When Homofront reorganised, they understood that the mistakes of the past could not be repeated. They became decentralised, hard to target individually, dispersed across the globe. Killing one leader would not be enough to disturb their global operations, because two more would rise to replace him."

"The Nifonese are an intelligent people." Delgado continued, pacing around the table, "And those who were smart enough to escape went to New Sodom to regroup and recruit. That was how our friend Gene Karlson became involved. Ever since the mission in Bangka, the question about the role of Steven Nordholt in all this has lingered over everything we have done since he was spotted alive in the outskirts of Kesslerstaadt among Karlson's men. Of course, that now throws the fate of Amihan Russel into question as well, since he could just as well have survived the attack like Nordholt managed to. If we want to definitively prove the link between Homofront and the organisers of this march, we will need to investigate thoroughly its leaders in Fineberg, but that is more easily said then done." Delgado lectured, setting his piercing blue eyes on Acton.

"According to NISFO reports, Homofront has had a strong presence in New Edom since the start, primarily due to its proximity to the SACTO centre. While small, Homofront has waged a variety of terror campaigns against both local and national Edomite institutions including shootings and the death of a nationally celebrated capybara. Carloso only joined the organisation in 2016, so was saved from much of the initial unrest caused by their operations. They have been slow to build the initial logistics necessary for a widespread terror campaign." Delgado said, grimacing at Mencia, who appeared to have nearly fallen into a fit of laughter, "As funny as it sounds, Mr Mencia, Homofront have proven themselves to be a very capable enemy in recent years, far more adaptable to the circumstances that surround them than any Islamic or communist terrorists organisation. Most of the damage they do isn't physical, but ideological. By using this demonstration as a human shield, they have turned international opinion against New Edom in an attempt to isolate them and enforce their depraved agenda."

Acton nodded. "Right, that is why we're here." she responded, "But who are these people we are meant to be tracking down?"

"Hmmm, I suppose a rehash of the briefing isn't really useful, but this is. Read it, Lieutenant." Delgado handed Acton two sheets of paper, one with a photo of a lady called Rhea Wither, described as the Executive Director of the Organisation for Free Expression. "This is the head of the OFE, one of many NGOs that were set up in New Edom to agitate for reform." Delgado explained, "They were one of the main culprits behind this whole demonstration. The Edomite authorities have probably brought her in for questioning after this mess."

"And whats this second page?" Acton asked, "The Edomite Freedom Coalition?"

"Yeah." Delgado chimed, "They're much more open about their alignment then any of the other NGOs. Several of its members have been sentenced to penal labour or are awaiting trial for subversive activity. They describe themselves as socialists and have very strong pro-LGBT leanings. NISFO has been monitoring the internet presence of their members. There were some interesting results."

"Like what?" Mencia quizzed.

Delgado sauntered over to the kettle and turned it on, feeling like having a cup of tea before he got to work. "Whispers, but better then nothing. There's evidence to suggest that Homofront and EFC have been cooperating, but nothing solid. We'll need to investigate further. That is what you will be doing tomorrow."

Mencia raised an eyebrow. "Me? How exactly?" he questioned.

"Tomorrow, you will stake out the headquarters of the EFC. Take note of anyone you see moving in or out." Delgado ordered, turning to Acton. "Lieutenant, I need you to come with me to the Carlosian embassy. We have a package to collect."

"You're allowing him off on his own? After what happened in Ubud? Jesus..." Acton sighed, "No offence, Mencia." She certainly did not want a repeat of Mencia's rescue from the ISCF's brothel.

"Pfft, I don't care." Mencia retorted, "I'm more then able to do this on my own."

"Good, its not like you'll be breaking in or anything. You can have the car while you're at it." Delgado continued. The kettle had just finished boiling, "Right, I'm off to bed after this cup of tea. I'll brief you both further in the morning." he concluded.

"Night, Commander." Mencia and Acton said, leaving for their bedrooms.

---

Attn: Hosidius Geta, Minister for Foreign Affairs of New Edom,
CC: External affairs departments of SACTO member states
Subject: Re: SACTO ENHANCED FORWARD PRESENCE FORCE - NEW EDOM
Encryption: Red

Mr Hosidius Geta,
The Carlosian government will be happy to assist in the extinguishing of the persisting Homofront terrorist threat in New Edom. Recognising this, we offer to immediately deploy one squadron; No. V (Attack) Squadron CAF, of A41 Mosco attack aircraft to New Edom if your government so permits. They will be best suited to supporting any ground operations that either the Edomite military or SACTO-aligned forces undertake against this organisation, and will be obliged to coordinate their action with local forces. Provision will continue to be made for additional forces to be sent to New Edom if the need so arises, including additional air and naval assets.

---

Yours sincerely,
Minister for External Affairs
Aaron Delgado MP

[Ardoki]

Alion Tower, Ardea
Greater Ardokian Empire

---

Einri Ionatan Corcoran, owner of Alion Financials, sat behind his desk in the office of his penthouse on the highest floor of Alion Tower. It was almost midnight, but he wasn't tired. He was use to a lack of sleep. Tea with the Grand Emperor that afternoon had interrupted his work, but it was good to get out and see an old friend. But now he had to make up for lost time.

A knock on his door.

'Come in please.' Ah, this must be Torin.

A man in a well-tailored suit entered. 'Your Excellency.'

'Torin! Just the man I was waiting for! Please take a seat. Oh, and pour yourself a glass if you wish. The stuff is in the drawer over there.'

Torin walked over to a cabinet near the door and poured himself a glass of bourbon before sitting down opposite his employer. 'I'm guessing it must be important, calling for me at this time.' He said with a wry smile.

'Yes. It is.' Einri said.

'Not imperial business I gather.'

'No. The Organisation.'

'Ah.' Torin, casually draped on the chair, said before taking a swill of bourbon. 'Dangerous?'

'Exceedingly so. But generous compensation.'

'I just do it for the thrills.' Torin winked.

Einri took out a passport from his draw and slid it across the table to Torin. 'There is an account with one hundred thousand, you can access it as straight as you get to New Edom. There will be more when you need it.'

'New Edom, eh?' Torin examined the passport. It was a genuine British passport, with his photo but with the name 'Jason Conner'.

Einri removed a plastic zip-lock bag from the same draw and handed it over to Torin. 'Read it. Memorise it. Then destroy it.' He removed a ticket from his jacket pocket and placed it down on the table. 'Your flight leaves first thing in the morning. Don't be late.'

North Ardea International Airport, Ardea
Greater Ardokian Empire

---

Torin approached the check-in. He was travelling light, he could hopefully get more stuff once he arrived in Fineburg. That is if the city wasn't in too much turmoil. Einri was almost like a father to him, Torin thought. I will not fail him! Not with all he has done for me! Up ahead there was a commotion of some sorts. A drunk women yelling at the poor baggage check-in assistant, with whole group around her trying to calm her down. That check-in station was practically abandoned now, as other passengers steered themselves to the neighbouring stations. Wise move. I think I'll do that.

'What do you mean I can't take all this on board!' yelled Onora, not meaning to raise her voice.

'There are laws regarding the amount of liquids you are allowed to bring on board flights. This exceeds the limit by quite a bit.' said the check-in assistant.

'What limit?! This is medicinal!'

'Frankly. The amount of alcohol you are carrying looks like an attempt at smuggling.'

'I am so sorry about here madame. This is just a big misunderstanding. We'll surrender it to you.' Tomas interrupted.

'Now listen here!' Onora interjected. 'We are from the Ardokian Radio and Television Service on an important mission!'

'You can drink on the plane. Let's just leave this poor woman alone.'

'Okay. I do have the company credit card.' Onora slowly said.

'I don't think that's what he meant'. Rian tried to add, but Tomas gestured for him to stop.

'But as soon as we land we're going straight to a pub!'

Rian looked back at Cian and Ciar who looked absolutely embarrassed at what was going on in front of them. He's right. This isn't the place to argue.

---

RECIPIENT(S): Hosidius Geta, Foreign Minister
SENDER: Fionn Cormac Cleary, Minister of External Affairs
SUBJECT: Immigrant Acceptance and Imminent Arrival of Reporters

---

The Greater Ardokian Empire shall accept all of these mentioned emigrants, regardless of criteria. We'll even accept those who curse Ardoki with their every waking breath. We are a compassionate people.

P.S. You should be expecting a crew of reporters from the Ardokian Radio and Television Service in the next few days.

---

Diplomatic Relations Directorate, Foreign Affairs Department, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of the Greater Ardokian Empire

[The Chuck]

Fineberg, New Edom, Chuckian Embassy

Once Tobias Lareth had departed, Ambassador Parker had picked up a phone and called the presidential palace in Charles Rock. Getting in touch with one of his superiors he explained how an official apology would be warranted. With that he hung up and turned to address Joan and Madison.

"Terribly sorry that we had this issue flare up when you had to first arrive. Though hopefully it has shown both of you how volatile it is on the streets. As such I don't think either of you should head out until tomorrow. In the meantime you both are free to wander the embassy grounds and speak with anyone you like to help get stories and information about the conflict. Though before you do, please stop by the armory in the basement and speak with Quartermaster Harrison. If you have any questions for me, please don't hesitate to ask."

With that, Joan spoke up with one question that had been gnawing away at her since they had gained this assignment.

"Ambassador Parker, is the Chuckian government doing anything about this?"

"At the moment no and I seriously doubt they will get involved unless this embassy comes under direct attack. As you know Joan, homosexuality is allowed in The Chuck but it is more of a private matter and it isn't our cultural norm to express it loudly. Along with this, we're at a point where we can't take any asylum seekers due to the bureaucracy in the government and the fact that it will be hard to vet any asylum seekers to make sure they are not parts of terrorist organizations. So until the violence calms down we will keep our gates closed to any new asylum seekers however we will continue to process those who had filed for asylum before the protests."

With that response from Ambassador Parker, Joan and Madison were satisfied and left. Heading to the basement they saw signs leading to the armory and stepped through the door till they were facing a metal cage with a soldier standing in it. Behind the soldier were rows of rifles, pistols, shotguns, armor, and the likes. Turning to face them, the soldier spoke up with a smile,

"Hello! I am Quartermaster Joseph Harrison. You must be Joan and Madison Andrews. Ambassador Parker informed me earlier that you would be arriving sometime today. While you're with us, he figured it would be best that you both had some protection while you go snooping around for your next story."

With that, Quartermaster Harrison turned around and walked over to one of the walls where tactical vests hung. Picking up two black vests he carried them over to the counter and pulled out two large white velcro "Press" stickers and put them on the chest section. Passing them through the slot he spoke,

"Alright, both of you try these on. While you're out on the streets it would be wise to wear these along with carrying your foreign press credentials so that you aren't accidentally swept up by either sides of the conflict."

While the girls tried on the tactical vests, Joseph turned back around and walked over to where military gas masks hung from their straps. Picking up two of them he slipped them into carrying cases and placed them on the counter.

"You'll probably want these too since you might get caught in tear gas or something. If you happen to loose any of this equipment, don't worry about it. A bill will be sent directly to the Chuckian Continental instead. Though if you lose the gas-masks and happen to need to breathe clearly, get a piece of fabric wet and tie it over your face. Be careful doing this though because if your face is covered, police or military personnel might think both of you are protesters. Anyways, that's everything I have for you. Unfortunately it wouldn't be wise to arm you two even though we have loose gun laws back home."

With that, the girls left and walked around the embassy and spoke with anyone who could spare them a moment. As night fell, they joined some of the other embassy personnel in the cafeteria and had dinner. Once they were ready for bed they followed one of the guards who led them to a two bed bedroom on the third floor. Walking in they were met with a spacious area and their journalism equipment which had been brought up by someone. Stepping into the room they spent some time writing a part of an article for the paper and called Q. Quinn Quentin. When accounting for time zones, it was the middle of the night back home and as such, Quinn wasn't in the best of moods.

"Hello, who the fuck is this and what the hell do you want?"

"Quinn, it's Joan and Madison. We'r..."

"Ah! Do you have pictures and a story for me?"

"Um... we have photos but we don't quite have a story finished sir."

"Then why the hell are you calling me?"

"We have photos and we'd like to inform you about what happened today."

With that they filled him in on the events of the past day. Arriving at the airport and being attacked by the protesters. Once they were finished they heard him cackle on the other end.

"This is journalism gold! Send me the photos as soon as possible. We'll write the story. Don't worry about it, just send the bloody pictures! 'Violent Dykes and Benders Attack Defenseless Foreigners: A Menace to Society!' will be plastered all over Charles Rock and the whole island for that matter!"

"But sir! We don't know if they were LGBT+ protesters or counter-protest..."

"Well who gives a shit!? We make the news. Sensational headlines equals sensational profits!"

"But sir, there would be an outcry in our nation if you falsely accused people without evidence and it could lead to protests in our streets."

"Hmph. Fine, we won't use those headlines but you'd both better have double the photos tomorrow evening! This doesn't mean you have a job either Madison!"

With that the two sisters heard a click on the other end. After they slipped into bed, Madison sat up and looked over at Joan.

"Jeez sis, he's quite the homophobic isn't he?"

"Not really, he just likes to sell sensationalized stories. He's quite polite to Allie Morgan."

"Oh, isn't she the one you a..."

"Good Night!"

[Ru-]

The Imperial Palace

His Imperial Majesty, King Yoshio Rellinaiche the First, stepped forward toward his spot at the head of an intimate and private breakfast table with a smile and received a short, formal half-bow from Chancellor Anedi Flanders, who could still manage the gesture perfectly despite his need for a cane. The young boy king of Ru acknowledged it with a respectful dip of his head in response and pulled up his chair at the head of the table.

"Good morning again, Lord Chancellor! Thank you for joining me."

"And thank you for the invitation, Your Majesty."

"You're most welcome. Sit, if you would, and let's eat."

Despite the bright and early time of day, King Yoshio was already fully dressed up in a royal outfit made up of some of the finest quality silks that could be found anywhere in the empire, or quite possibly the world, thanks to the elaborate collaborative ritual the palace traditionally conducts daily at the time of his waking. A couple of servants brought out his breakfast: It was a classic full Ruvian breakfast: scrambled eggs with cheese, onions, and black pepper on toast, bacon, fried potato hash with peppers, spicy mini sausage, and fluffy waffles with butter and syrup. All made to the palace's exacting high standards. To drink, he had a glass of frosted vanilla and orange juice concoction that was a personal favorite of his and another long time beloved Ruvian classic, so long as you had a chef willing to take the time to prepare it for you, which the boy king most certainly did. For his own breakfast, Anedi had a lonely crescent roll, a cup of tea, and a newspaper. The king smirked at this difference and remarked. "Not hungry Anedi, you do know you could have had whatever you wanted, right?"

The old man smiled. "I prefer a light breakfast, little Majesty, and I find the routine comforting." As Yoshio thanked his servers and began to dig in, Anedi Flanders immediately noticed something unusual was going on, and he made note of it immediately:

"You didn't invite your mother to breakfast?"

"I wanted it to be just the two of us today, we don't hang out enough lately." the king answered.

The Chancellor had been around King Yoshio long enough to know that a one on one meal invite like this meant that the King wanted to discuss politics, and that he was displeased with him about something. The boy, for his part, did not dance around what he wanted and got straight to the point.

"General Wallamolu seems concerned that you didn't see fit to bring me with you to the meeting last night, I think it was the one to discuss New Edom was it not?"

That insufferable oaf. Damn him. Anedi thought to himself, finally able to take some sips of his tea now that the monarch had begun eating. "General Wallamolu is concerned and unhappy of most anything I decide to do, or not do. That lot still doesn't trust me to simply fulfill the role the people elected me to fill." He answered.

The king began to cut into his sausages. "But do you think I shouldn't have still been there?" he asked with genuine curiosity, "I might've learned something."

"You realize what time I was called into that meeting right, little Majesty? If you truly wanted to be hauled out of bed and set to shuffle around like a zombie then I will keep that in mind for the future. But as your Chancellor and your regent, I'm fully capable of attending important matters in your stead and later educating you on the events worthy of your royal attention. Should you wish it."

"Go on then." Yoshio waved him along with his knife. Anedi then briefed him on the situation in New Edom thus far, in a manner in which he could understand. The boy was a true honest to Cael genius, to be sure, who could amaze the old Chancellor on a near daily basis with his capabilities at holding an intelligent conversation but he was still a very young child all the same.

"I heard some rumors that King-Emperor Elijah has returned and either has already dismissed or will soon dismiss Count Lalery. Any truth to this?" And once again, the little king surprised him with that he had already made himself aware of. Much less of what's going on in the halls of the palace gets past King Yoshio then probably should be the case, as the boy exerted great effort to keep himself in the loop, and was quite skilled at this, whether that was for his own good or not.

"Nothing's been announced, but I'm certain that is indeed the case." Anedi had looked at those briefs in much more detail then whatever it was that Yoshio had managed to scrounge up. "You seem a bit distraught." Yoshio pointed out. "Heh, is that obvious?" Anedi asked, "Yes this is an unfortunate blow for Ru. Your little friend Elijah has really fu- screwed us on this one. Lalery seemed very excited for what stronger ties with Ru might offer his economy. We had a very good and productive working relationship. We basically spearheaded together the initiative to strengthen ties with our nations and get that recent huge trade deal off the ground and ready to be finalized, before this mess with those protesters happened and is threatening to scuttle the whole thing. It's possible that his replacement will be just as amenable to ensuring the success of the trade deal, but let's just say that I don't think they would have gotten rid of Lalery in order to bring in someone who is less of a traditionalist hardliner."

"My condolences" Yoshio offered, dryly.

"Well, not as if it comes as a total shock. He's been a bit of a sinking ship for awhile now. I'll be joining him soon, I reckon, if this situation gets much worse then it has already. SACTO's increased involvement and Elijah's increasing gratitude for it does not give me much confidence that New Edom will be doing much to help placate the Ruvian public. Now with New Edom copying from the big book of Nifonese rhetoric, that plays dreadfully here and the worse they look, the worse it is for me politically. The senate will at least be pleased to hear Elijah's promises in his address, those first two items were their biggest demands. And Lalery may still be involved in the government in some capacity. But moving on from someone who had such a proven track record in dealing with Ru, it's a concerning sign they are ready to move further away from us."

"It's not my duty to worry about your reelection strategy, no offense." Yoshio said between bites, "But to make sure that Ru follows through on an international policy that is consistent with Ruvian honor and values. You mentioned possible negotiation meetings at the Thermodolian embassy, and that you believe that Maki Kojiro is determined to negotiate successfully with nations like Ru to prove to his SACTO allies and the world how effective Greater Nifon can be in dealing with the "imperialist globalists." Do you think he might attend these meetings in person?"

"Cael only knows." Said Anedi and bit into his crescent. Yoshio grinned his big toothy grin and nodded. "Hmm, perhaps I should show up personally. A surprise appearance. If he fancies himself a mighty negotiator then it's only right and fitting that he should have to face the King of the Devils himself! Wouldn't that be grand? Imagine, in the traditional Ruvian royal regalia , the look on their faces when I walk in. There's the intimidation factor for you, and such a greater symbolic opportunity for him! Adds pressure, a greater possible reward, so he may just grant us an extra concession or two in his eagerness to make sure the negotiations are successful."

Flanders thought he might be developing a headache. The King tagging along with the Ruvian delegation and sitting there preening like an iguana sunning itself on a rock the whole meeting was the very last thing he needed to deal with on top of everything else. "No, Majesty, no. That is not a wise idea and I must insist against it. It is better for everyone if you just remain here."

He seemed a little taken aback, Anedi almost expected him to fold his arms and start pouting. "Oh? And just why is that, may I ask?"

To the boy's credit, he was a child who already knew to appreciate and expect honest feedback and advice, so the Chancellor gave it: "Well to start, Majesty. Your last idea was to request the King-Emperor and Queen-Empress to return to the capital and take control of the situation, thinking that their involvement would improve the situation. Instead, their involvement has only made things worse for Ru, for reasons we have discussed."

"Hey now, it's not my fault that happened. We didn't send a request and he came back on his own."

"No you didn't cause it, but my point is that you predicted the result of Elijah's involvement incorrectly. You read him incorrectly, despite meeting him in person before which you have not done with Kojiro-san or any other Nifonese. My point, is that you lack experience, and that causes you to sometimes find yourself unable to anticipate how another nation or leader will respond. You think you know that your presence will elicit the reactions out of the Nifonese that you want and will help Ru's position, and you may be right, but I can't have you getting cute with theatrics and playing head-games and risking it backfiring on us. And while you already display many exemplary leadership qualities, you are also not as charming as you seem to think you are, and I'm concerned that this idea to show up unannounced in person is more about spectacle, attention, and your own desire to be personally included in matters of importance....your Majesty."

He blinked and He paused his eating, having already finished much of it and rested the back of his hands under his chin thoughtfully. Then chuckled a little. "Yikes, don't hold back now." he quipped. Then he snickered a bit. "Heh, now just what do you have against spectacle anyway? I like spectacle, and you seemed to make great use of it in getting yourself elected."

"Get your mother in here, already." Anedi said, exasperated.

"No seriously," Yoshio protested "Seriously, appearances are important. Our whole strategy with New Edom since you took over was to help them see that after suffering through three devastating invasions and civil wars over this crap, that The Shrailleni Empire and Ru were alternative friends that could present better, more lucrative, and more worthwhile rewards then Greater Nifon has to offer. Which is only the noble opportunity to keep fighting the entire world, and get more and more bloodshed, forever. That is what this whole thing with SACTO is truly all about. We were starting to get some cracks in and succeeding at eroding their influence in favor of our own. They noticed this and are fighting tooth and nail to convince New Edom that SACTO remains it's greatest option. And they have now succeeded. Elijah has all but declared as such and with Lalery and that terrorist attack, our position is weaker then ever. But that's all the more reason I should be there! This is the type of situation I thrive in! Appearances are critically important, especially now. "Project strength when you are weak." If we enter into negotiations and I am there, they will know that we are confident and we are taking our demands extremely seriously. And as King Julian the First said, "I will look into my enemy, with my own eyes."

The Imperial Chancellor sighed and folded his paper. "Oh, now I know I don't want you to be there. The Nifonese are not your enemy."

Yoshio smirked and scoffed. "Oh good. That's a relief, do let them know, would you please? I don't think they are aware. Or maybe you haven't beem listening to them these last few decades."

"They are not your enemies during a negotiation, Majesty." Anedi answered back firmly.

Yoshio considered this and nodded in seeming agreement. "Yes, you are right. And you are my Chancellor, and my Regent, besides. And you are those things, as you said, for a reason. I trust your judgement completely and will always listen to your advice in all matters, especially this one." He paused to lay his utensils down over his plate. "But the bottom line is this: If Kojiro-san will be there personally, then I want to be there as well. If he sends someone else in his place instead, then I want you, the Imperial Chancellor himself, to be there. I will not have it said that Nifon considers the fate of New Edom a more then Ru does." He sat up straight in his chair. "Now I believe we are done with our breakfast, good day, Lord Chancellor."

He stood up and nodded his head toward Anedi as the servants stepped forward to gather up the king's plates and silverware. In the Imperial palace the meal ended for everyone when the king was finished eating and not a second later. The old man stood and bowed in turn, leaving his own meager breakfast unfinished as the two departed.

[Montenbourg]

Montenbourg
His Majesty's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Elizabeth McCord
Minister of Foreign Affairs
World Assembly "Remarks on the Humanitarian Crisis in New Edom"
February 10, 2019

Thank you. Thank you, everybody. On the situation in New Edom, our Kingdom stands with the information given by the Edomite Freedom Coalition, The Fineberg Petition Group for Civil Rights and Freedoms, and members of The Order of the Purple Cross on the past events targeting LGBT citizens and foreigns whom actively participated in the protests, the representatives of the EFC and FPG along with some members of the OPC are being offered asylum under our Embassy in Fineberg for them to keep providing information to all of us about the situation.

We are pushing towards freezing the conflict in every way possible under diplomatic negotiations pushing for the implementation of the WA Security Council resolution that condemns these attacks by the government of New Edom to LGBTI citizens. As of today,The Federal Union of Guadalupador, the Neo-British Empire, the Shrailleeni Empire, and more than four countries have joined us condemning this crisis fueled by New Edom officials. As many of you know, there are meetings, yesterday and today in the Palace of Westfalia, about the crisis in New Edom. Instead of trying to accommodate General Nicanor through contact groups or dialogue, we urge countries to recognize the expansion of New Edom’s legal civil rights and political freedoms and call new elections to include a nationally elected Council of Ministers, we encourage embassies and universities to call for freedom of political assembly, and to support the right to protest and to speak on behalf of LGBT interests join us in responding their call for immediate international humanitarian assistance to meet the needs of the Edomite people.

New Edom officials under General Nicanor has proven he will manipulate any call for negotiations to his advantage, and he has often used so-called dialogues as a way to play for time and continue to abuse LGBTI and minorities. We urge all involved to deal solely with the Edomite Freedom Coalition and The Fineberg Petition Group for Civil Rights and Freedoms. The time for dialogue with Nicanor has long passed, let's not repeat 2012 when their government executed genocide against Elwe people and in 2014 when President of the Council General Perrin Pahath-Moab order the shooting of demonstrators in the former province of Gloria Regis. Every day that General Nicanor remains in power is a day where political prisoners remain in jail, detainees are abused, killed and some forced to emigrate.

His Majesty's Government is coordinating with the Edomite Freedom Coalition and The Fineberg Petition Group for Civil Rights and Freedoms and team of experts, other governments in the region, our humanitarian partners, on the logistics of deploying aid to mobilize a response efficiently and safely. We are prepositioning items – relief items, food, nutritional supplements, hygiene kits, medical kits in our embassies so that they’re available to reach LGBT edomites in need.

I would like to state that we are imposing visa restrictions and revoking the visas of members of the illegitimate council of ministers. This body has usurped all of the constitutional powers of the National Chamber of Deputies, the legitimate National Assembly, and embodies the militaristic destruction of democratic institutions. While I cannot name names because visa information is protected, I can state that we will continue to take action against those destroying New Edom's democratic institutions. We’ve engaged a massive economic pressure campaign against New Edom. To date, we have issued 19 rounds of sanctions on New Edom, designating 168 targets as part of our maximum pressure campaign. We have gone after the financial networks that New Edom regime uses to fuel its terrorist proxies such as Homofront and to support the systematic oppression of minorities.

As of Monday February 11th, the final round of snapback sanctions will be enforced on New Edom's energy, shipping, shipbuilding, and financial sectors. As part of this action on Monday, His Majesty's Treasury will add more than 700 names to our list of blocked entities. We are sending a very clear message with our maximum pressure campaign that the Kingdom of Montenbourg intends to aggressively enforce our sanctions. Any financial institution, company, or individual who evades our sanctions risks losing access to Montenbourg and the European Union financial system and the ability to do business with the Kingdom or European companies. We are intent on ensuring that global funds stop flowing to the coffers of the Edomite regime. These sanctions will include targeting Iran’s automotive sector, trade in gold, and other key metals, and will include targeting Edom's energy sector and and transactions with their banks including their central bank.

Again, we have a clear and compelling vision for a better future for the Edomite people. This future can only be realized, though, if New Edom meets the demands to become a country respectful of Human Rights. Normal countries don’t terrorize their nationals.

And let me be clear, this strategy is not about changing the regime, it is about changing the behavior of the leadership in New Edom to comport with what the Edomite people really want them to do.

It is violation of human rights when people are beaten or killed because of their sexual orientation, or because they do not conform to cultural norms about how men and women should look or behave. It is a violation of human rights when governments declare it illegal to be gay, or allow those who harm gay people to go unpunished. It is a violation of human rights when lesbian or transgendered women are subjected to so-called corrective rape, or forcibly subjected to hormone treatments, or when people are murdered after public calls for violence toward gays, or when they are forced to flee their nations and seek asylum in other lands to save their lives. And it is a violation of human rights when life-saving care is withheld from people because they are gay, or equal access to justice is denied to people because they are gay, or public spaces are out of bounds to people because they are gay. No matter what we look like, where we come from, or who we are, we are all equally entitled to our human rights and dignity.

This is not unlike the justification offered for violent practices towards women like honor killings, widow burning, or female genital mutilation. Some people still defend those practices as part of a cultural tradition. But violence toward women isn't cultural; it's criminal. Likewise with slavery, what was once justified as sanctioned by God is now properly reviled as an unconscionable violation of human rights. In each of these cases, we came to learn that no practice or tradition trumps the human rights that belong to all of us. And this holds true for inflicting violence on LGBT people, criminalizing their status or behavior, expelling them from their families and communities, or tacitly or explicitly accepting their killing.

Of course, it bears noting that rarely are cultural and religious traditions and teachings actually in conflict with the protection of human rights. Indeed, our religion and our culture are sources of compassion and inspiration toward our fellow human beings. It was not only those who’ve justified slavery who leaned on religion, it was also those who sought to abolish it. And let us keep in mind that our commitments to protect the freedom of religion and to defend the dignity of LGBT people emanate from a common source. For many of us, religious belief and practice is a vital source of meaning and identity, and fundamental to who we are as people. And likewise, for most of us, the bonds of love and family that we forge are also vital sources of meaning and identity. And caring for others is an expression of what it means to be fully human. It is because the human experience is universal that human rights are universal and cut across all religions and cultures.

Here I am’ is an invitation to all: See me, recognize me, and understand me as a person, regardless of how I define my gender and sexuality. Because my rights are also your rights, because we are all humans.

God Save the King

[New Othman]

Othmani Embassy, Fineberg
Office of Melissa Onarici, Ambassador to New Edom


Fingering her cross and rosary, the Christian Ambassador of a heavily Muslim, albeit secular, nation prayed for compassion for both those sinners slain and those living, as well as the no doubt stressed-out leaders of the host country. She prayed for the monarchs, King-Emperor Elijah IV and Queen-Empress Mara, for the new President of the Council, Count Sharra, for the recently deposed acting President and current Finance Minister, Count Thomas Lalery, for the retired President, General Adam Nicanor, and for all others in positions of great responsibility. A Chaldean Christian, Onarici didn't believe in a monolithic bloc role for any sect in partisan politics, but she did believe that good Christians should be good neighbors and good citizens, good patriots doing their civic duty and obeying and upholding the laws of God and Man, in that particular order.

Feeling more serenity now that her Christian duty was done and she was on better terms with her Maker, Onarici turned to her secretary, Asena Karaduman, who had just risen from her prayer rug to make prayers of her own, the proper prayers of a Sunni Muslim of her persuasion. Asena hadn't worn a hijab back home, but she found that it helped in New Edom, just because people tended not to preach Christian morals at her so much, though several passed her Gospel tracts from time to time to urge her to become an apostate to Islam and convert to Christianity. The hijab had been Asena's husband's idea, too. Colonel Barca Akbulut was a military attache with the Embassy and had that post at least part because of his wife's boss's influence, as they felt that he could protect her better if he was there, too. A big, beefy fellow with a rather impressive cavalier's mustache, a glass eye where his left eye used to be, and a dress uniform resplendent with medals from the Lazodirian War and the Dengali War before that, it was highly improbable that many locals would assault her if they saw him, too.

At present, Asena's job was to draft a written statement about the recent riots, gunfire, and terrorist activity, one that would express the right sentiments at this time. It was designed to appeal to the Edomite Government, of course, as, bad as this was, it was a great opening to improve relations with New Edom and build support from them for its cause of rearmament. The more support that New Othman could gather among CPO members, especially on the Peace Council, the better its odds of smoother, easier sailing on the voyage back to full national sovereignty, including in matters of national security and defense.

To: King-Emperor Elijah IV, Queen-Empress Mara
From: Melissa Onarici, Ambassador of New Othman to New Edom
Re: Riots, Terrorism
Encryption: Low

Your Majesties,

I wish, on behalf of my government, to extend the deepest condolences, shock, and horror of the Othmani nation and people, including said government, to the Edomite nation, people, and government suffering at this time of great trial, pain, tragedy, and suffering. It was not that long ago that your own country extended similar wishes upon the assassination of our Foreign Minister by Delvian renegades on your soil, for which we remain profoundly grateful. Now, let us return the favor and show our genuine empathy for you at a time like this.

In that spirit, I would like to inquire, on behalf of said government, if there are any reasonable measures that New Othman can take to assist and aid New Edom at a time like this. We hope that, while horrific, we can use this chance to work on building a better working relationship between our two countries. The first step in this direction could be some sort of assistance as requested by your government from ours if you were so inclined. Perhaps we can confer, or at least I can with your Foreign Minister, Mr. Geta, or your new President, Count Sharra?

Sincerely,
Melissa Onarici, Ambassador of New Othman to New Edom

Downtown Fineberg,
A Local Cafe

One of the things that Asena prayed about, of course, was Barca's own safety at a time like this, when his duties sometimes carried him outside the Embassy grounds for a significant length of time. Asena felt that her hijab had brought her closer to Allah and she just hoped that this improved relationship with Him would help her husband as well. In the end, however, it was Kismet. Whatever happened was Kismet, as the Prophet Mehmet taught, peace be upon him. If she had known that he was actually working for Othmani Military Intelligence as well, she might have been even more concerned. A true patriot of New Othman, Barca felt it his duty to gather intel about this present situation, in case it might improve chances of dividing New Edom from the former foes of New Othman from the Lazodirian War, in fact.

In fact, the rumor mill had been busy, and what ground intel Barca collected was telling. Relations between New Edom and Adiron were more strained than ever, as were those between Shrailleen and New Edom, too. Few situations could have put more of a smile upon Barca's face than the prospect of a more isolated Adiron, Lazodiria, and Shrailleen, to put it mildly. Divided, they were in a much weaker negotiating position, in fact, for the future disarmament talks. Triangular diplomacy worked much better when each end was farther apart. Also, in case things got hairy and talks broke down, it was best to leave that door to a closer rapprochement between New Ankara and Fineberg, to say the least. New Othman needed proper allies, strong ones, and the sooner the better. The past wars had taught Barca that much for sure. Countries that stood alone against all comers always lost....always.

Barca's current assignment was to sit in cafes, libraries, and other public venues, strike up conversations with locals, and hit up social media to engage in discourse with people on local chat, forums, etc. He was supposed to get a more authentic feel for the pulse of the Edomite people, their present mood, their attitude about the recent riots, Homofront terrorist activity, etc. From what he saw so far, it was more promising by the day for the Othmani cause and looked worse constantly for Adiron among others.

That was what he was doing in the local Edomite cafe he visited right then, between love texts sent to his wife......as well as flirting with the waitresses, as he never claimed to be a imam or anything. Barca still loved Asena as much as ever, though they were both a bit hurt and their marriage at times strained due to the death of their son Bilal during a terrorist pipe bomb incident at the height of the insurgency back in 2015, just four years earlier. Bilal was a cheerful, seven year old boy and the only one of their children not miscarried or stillborn, as Asena had real issues with uterine scar issue thanks to an abortion many years back. Bilal had been in the wrong place at the wrong time, curious about what his neighbors did.....and curiosity may not have killed the cat, but it had destroyed him in the blast, blown up in the cafe.

He would have been eleven now.....my boy.....my sweet boy, Barca thought, choking back unmanly tears. The outside world might view crying as acceptable for men, but that was not how an Othmani man behaved. Othmani men should be tough, unshakeable, firm, brave, capable of softer feelings, yes, where appropriate, but tears were not among them. Tears got you killed, bullied, attacked, etc. Tears showed weakness. The Fascist Youth Organization training and high school had taught Barca this well, as did a stern and distant father who stood in stark contrast to his kind and mellow mother.

Privately, Barca had rejected any belief in a benevolent Creator after Bilal died, whereas before that he had opened up to possible agnosticism at least, if not outright embrace of various religions, but especially Islam and the teachings of the imams (not necessarily the same thing, of course). His wife had become more religious since Bilal perished, but Barca blamed religion itself and this had put their marriage under further strain, though they still adored each other. It was funny that both of them had also considered various other faiths, but the death of Bilal had found Asena seeking out the imams for spiritual solace and guidance, while Barca walked out of the mosque after his son's funeral and never returned.

Setting that aside, though, Barca was still nominally a Muslim (his father had him circumcised into the faith) and could use that as needed, including for intelligence activities. Seeming to just be an interested foreigner belonging to another Abrahamic faith, of course, could be very useful indeed. For one thing, it was highly unlikely that a Muslim, particularly a pious one as he presented himself to be, would get involved in something nefarious such as Homofront. He could talk the talk and be convincing, especially among Christians who didn't know what to expect from one of that sect. Even his flirting didn't detract from that, because since when weren't religious people hypocrites?

"Some mess they created, wasn't it? Homofront, was it, or perhaps it was a foreign country that wants to spread homosexual propaganda for its own purposes. Can you think of any country that would want to do that? Not mine, of course. My government's godless and secular, sure, but has bigger concerns, you know, what with enforced disarmament and the talks to end that," Barca asked the cafe's waitress, flirting with her as subtly as he could without making it impossible for her to realize what he did.

[Montenbourg]

Montenbourg
His Majesty's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Elizabeth McCord
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Foreign Office Headquarters "Palace of Westfalia"
Montague, Montenbourg
January 28, 2019

The Kingdom of Montenboug today condemns New Edom at the Security Council of the World Assembly for the illegitimate usurpation of human rights following the actions taken by the Edom government based on their sexual orientation or gender identity and who currently remain detained, tortured and killed. The Kingdom of Montenbourg remains steadfast in its support of the people of New Edom and will continue to use the full weight of economic and diplomatic power to press for the restoration of human rights into Edomite soil.

Today, we reiterate our support to all nations who have stood up and call the to unite in one voice our proposal of condemnation to New Edom at the Security Council. It is time for New Edom to begin a transitional process that can restore a human rights coherent state.

To advance this goal, the Kingdom of Montenbourg has taken aggressive action against the regime and its enablers. Most recently, today, the Kingdom of Montenbourg have implemented and will continue to impose visa revocations and other restrictions for current and former New Edom government officials and their family members believed to be responsible for or complicit in human rights abuses, and the undermining of democratic governance. We will not allow them to act without consequence or enjoy their inhumane gains in the Kingdom of Montenbourg, or in any part of the European Union – and urge other countries to act likewise.

It is time for New Edom government to make a choice. We urge those who support this regime, from every day employees to the New Edom security forces to stop enabling repression and to work with journalists and diplomats for a peaceful return to humanity. The New Edom people and the international community will remember and judge your actions.

Because LGBTI are Human Rights, and Human Rights are LGBTI rights.

[Cossack Khanate]

Official Dispatch from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

To: Whom it may concern, directed at The Kingdom of Montenbourg
From: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Imperator

In light of the recent condemnation from the Kingdom of Montenbourg, The cossack Khanate, it’s state, it’s people, and it’s leader would like to remind the nations involved in this “crisis” that New Edom has full national sovereignty. That is, it must take it’s decisions for itself in the end. Furthermore, Edomite officials’ reactions have been both remorseful, polite, and courteous. The

Khanate would like to express it’s criticism of the condemnation. Foremost, the officials of Montenbourg have slandered the Edomite state and nation by using words such as “regime”, as well as by devaluing the word of the Edomite state by saying, quote:
“the statements made by New Edom authorities that appear to reduce in importance, condone or even encourage violence against LGBTI persons.”.

Furthermore, the government of Montenbourg attempts to stir up rebelliousness against the Edomite state by encouraging “New Edom security forces to stop enabling repression”, in effect calling for Edomite soldiers to rebel against orders given by the state or the King himself.

The Khanate strongly condemns the Kingdom of Montenbourg’s condemnation of New Edom, on the basis of slanderful langauge, the encouraging of rebellion, no respect for national sovereignty, and the punishing of former government officials for a controversial cause and supposed abuses. The government of the Khanate believes that Montenbourg has rashly and baselessly accused the Edomite government of “crimes” which it did not commit.

Signed,
Foreign Minister Ryan Vehr
Imperator Khan

[Polish Prussian Commonwealth]

We, Kaiser Crassus von Hohenzollern-Jagellion, hereby cease to recognize the The Kingdom of Montenbourg as a legitimate political entity. As it has no respect for the right for other nations to conduct their internal affairs as they wish, free from the prattling of goody-two-shoes foreign governments and multinational organizations, we will not respect it's sovereignty either.
As it is, the Kingdom of Montenbourg has been reclassified as a non-profit organization that owns an unusually large amount of real estate in international territory, suspected of ties to various terrorist groups, including Homofront.

Any further action by the Montenbourg Foundation with regards to New Edom will result in it's classification as a terrorist group to be destroyed at all costs.

[Ardoki]

Fineburg International Airport, Fineburg
New Edom

---

Onora stood for a few moments, trying to get her bearings. She had just managed to make it through security and was now staring at a hire car stand. Or, trying to stare at a hire car stand. Everything was a bit blurry, and the world looked a bit slanted. She lent over sideways and squinted, just a bit. Ah. That's better! I think I need a drink!

Tomas and the three others reached a few metres from where Onora was standing, hauling their suitcases and boxes full of expensive equipment. Cameras, microphones, computers, and what not. He saw Onora leaning sideways, other commuters parting around her. She hadn't drunk on the plane. The only thing worse than a drunk Onora was a sober Onora.

She turned around. 'I think we'll start with a pub. Lots of people, varied people, frequent pubs. If you want to know what's happening, or what's happened. Go to a pub! That's what I always say!'

'We'll have to drop everything off at the hotel first, and see to the vehicle hires. Rian?' Rian rushed forwards and took the slips from Tomas. A car and a van, that's what the company had reserved for them.

'Okay. But I'm not waiting around for any of you. I want to be at a pub within the hour. And remember, I'm in charge here.'

'So, The Majestic Hotel.' Cian said.

'Anyone know where it is?' Ciar added.

---

Torin flicked a lock of brown hair as he entered the foyer of The Majestic Hotel. I need a haircut. He sighted the concierge desk and strolled over. 'Deluxe Room for Jason Conner please. I have a booking.'

Torin threw his suitcase containing his laptop and documents onto the far side of his bed and fell backwards onto the soft mattress. The room wasn't to his usual standards, and it was a bit small, but it wasn't uncomfortable. Jason Conner is a freelance journalist after all. Best to appear a little frugal.
Torin flicked through a document he had removed from his suitcase. A list of Edomite NGOs he was to look into. Once caught his attention, the Edomite Freedom Coalition. That would be the one he would try first.

[Common Territories]

To: The Honorable General Simon Daniels; President Adam Nicanor; King Elijah IV and Queen Mara I. And To Those It May Concern From: Emperor JC, Emperor of TECT & Imperial Marshal of the Imperion Coalition. Subject: New Edomite Riots & Diplomatic Situation. Encryption: None. Dear Mr. Daniels, Nicanor, King Elijah IV, Queen Mara I, and of course the viewing world, Greetings to our esteemed Edomite allies and to the listening world, a fond hello. Although I wish it were better circumstances that I find myself writing to you today, it is sadly circumstances that bring nothing but sorrow and mourning. Yesterday, as many have tragically heard, violence erupted in the city of Fineberg, the capital of New Edom. Illegal demonstrations lead to chaotic riots as so-called humanitarian group leaders failed to control the situation they gave birth to. Later into the night, terrorists detonated improvised explosives that targeted the finest of Fineberg's institutions - putting both staff and civilians in the crosshairs yet again. This act of violence cannot and will not stand. The very purpose of Imperion and its Foreign Legion is to protect memberstates and assist them in their security and humanitarian needs. Domestic or foreign, Imperion stands with New Edom in its time of need - a promise made in blood and by treaty. After a brief emergency conference with King-Emperor, Queen-Empress, and other government authorities within New Edom, the Imperion Coalition will be taking these immediate actions: The 12,000 Legionnaires present in New Edom, as per New Edom's request, have been put on high alert. Fort Shorn Desert Warfare Training Center, Imperion Coalition's primary base in New Edom, has also been put on high alert. New Edomite authorities, in accordance to treaty law, will be guaranteed Legionnaire support in the occasion their support is requested. Furthermore, outside of New Edomite requests, the Imperion Coalition will take steps within its authority to secure New Edom with proper authorization by New Edomite authorities. In addition to the 12,000 Legionnaires already stationed in New Edom, the Imperion Coalition has approved New Edom's request to deploy two additional regiments of Imperion Coalition Foreign Legionnaires. Well over 8,000 in number, these two regiments are emergency reinforcements requested by the New Edomite government that will serve at the behest of New Edomite authorities until unneeded. Both regiments will participate in drills shortly after arriving to boost both Legionnaire and New Edomite capabilities. A series of emergency meetings within the Imperion Coalition's Meeting Hall in Empire City have been scheduled for today. The series of meetings will include a general session meeting on the situation in New Edom, an Imperion Arms Fund Committee hearing on allocating emergency funding for New Edom if it requires military related aid, an Imperion Domestic Affairs Department hearing to assemble available aid to New Edom if the situation calls for it, and a closed session meeting of member nations to formulate a complete set of responses to circumstances relating to the events in New Edom. I will make myself as plainly clear as I can. As Imperial Marshal, it is my responsibility - my duty - to lead by example and protect Coalition members in their time of need. As is true to any ruler, I am compelled to serve my people as they serve me - mutually served relationships are the bedrock of the Imperion Coalition. When one member is attacked, all members are attacked - I am attacked. When I see degenerates rioting in the streets of a member, I feel pain knowing citizens are brought to such a conclusion that promotes unnecessary violence. The burning and bombing of a member's institutions brings me the same level of outrage and anger that seeing my own nation's institutions in flame would bring. And as I see foreign interlopers - jackals looking for leftover meat to scavenge off of - come howling, probing, looking for any excuse to inject their ideology or agenda into new prey, I feel aggrieved - irate even. The level of interference and unnecessary jumps to action/conclusions disgusts me. Many couldn't even wait a single day before concluding events or making statements that can never be taken back. I can't and wont characterize every body that has chimed into New Edom's affairs as jackals since many have legitimate concerns and rightfully deserve proper dialogues; this especially holds true for neighbors the region of Cornellia who I've come to be familiar with during the infancy of my reign. But holding true to tradition, the Imperion Coalition will not stand idly by as threats of invasion are made against a member state. Whether it's parking a "rescue" fleet off New Edomite's coastline, or the threat of landing "peacekeepers" to place Fineberg under their control, the Imperion Coalition condemns such threats as the slimy, dangerous rhetoric that it is. Imperion, or better to say Imperion's member nations, have worked hard in the last day to gather intelligence behind the scenes and collect available information distributed for the world to view; they continue their hard work as I speak, collecting valuable intelligence as it continues to flow in. We especially wish to thank the Empires of Shalum and Aravea for their role in intercepting much of the information Imperion has ascertained over the past twenty-four hours; and of course New Edom itself, for being at the forefront of this storm, they have brought forward indispensable information to the table that needs addressing. I will address these topics starting now: To those nations interested in sending "rescue" fleets intending to invade New Edom to "rescue" embassies and their new dwellers. Shame on you. Trust was placed in you as you placed yours in the New Edomite government that embassies will both be respected and protected. One riot in a country is enough to lead your government into considering acts of war for reasons that aren't relevant to the situation? No embassy has yet been damaged as part of the rioting in Fineberg, and no embassy has faced any such threats of violence. Official responses by New Edomite authorities to governments have made it clear that control of the city and the safety of all foreign embassies is assured; they face no threat from the rioters, and to assume Edomite forces will raid embassies unprovoked is ludicrous. Those illogical enough to scoop up every person they could like scoops of ice cream and believe a day's worth of background searches are enough to clear them as safe, you reap what you sow I suppose. Embassies, and the capital, face no danger as New Edomite government has expressed to all concerned parties and thus doesn't require "rescue" fleets of any kind being dispatched. There is a proper format to transporting parties related to diplomatic staff/persons, and New Edom is negotiating a "Rainbow Road" deal for the safe migration of persons to foreign nations. My suggestion is taking the Edomite government up on that deal. But to those who ignore that advice, let me make this crystal clear: The Imperion Coalition will dispatch a combined Coalition fleet in the event it detects any foreign naval deployment to New Edom or the Region of Cornellia. Imperion will not send one flotilla, we will not send just one carrier group; what we will send is a grand fleet that will dwarf anything your nations can muster. If you believe us foolish enough to trust foreign nations to parking large fleets off a member's coast is totally fine without mustering a proper response, then im afraid you're dead mistaken. We will meet your fleet head on to reassure you the Imperion Coalition, and the Holy Empire of New Edom, is in full control of the situation. And to those who've made it known they plan to invade New Edom, regardless of the murky pretenses to such an invasion. Call it what you like, "keeping the peace", "liberation", "rescuing those in need", or whichever proverbial excuse you can imagine-up to enact your agenda upon New Edom: We see through your lies, are not fooled by your deceptions, and your are agendas obvious. I quote the Commoner Angel of War when I say, "Your termination is me! Annihilation is destined for ye! Damnation awaits thee!" There are no politer words I can offer to express my points better (nor would I offer them if I could) to any who are foolish enough to test the Imperion Coalition's might. So this is a message for those who intend to exact their military influence over New Edom, such as the Fatiman Federation who has promised and invasion of 130,000 soldiers to take Fineberg: Do not bother digging graves for your dead, for none shall return. Forget memorials unless you celebrate defeats. Choosing to invade an Imperion Coalition member is signing the death warrant for every soldier you deploy, to every plane or ship you dispatch overseas, and to every citizen you've now chosen to bring into harms way. You have now ceremoniously sent out an open invitation for Coalition members to slay as they please, to test their might against yours, and to score decisive victory after victory against the hordes of communist and democratic soldiers foolish enough to test their valor against ours. Your men and women will die a bloody, and unnecessarily painful death; your ships, if salvageable after being sunk, will make excellent scrap material for our industries; your planes, once brought down, mite also be handy scrap material to use if not totally disintegrated. What of the prisoners we acquire you ask? Good question. If (and I strongly emphasize the use of "if" here) survivors are left around after your disastrous defeat, we will be left with finding some use/worth to them. Im not one for slavery, but maybe a market abroad mite be on the lookout for new wares? We may be open to negotiations if they look promising, so maybe we'll sell them back to you? But at the end of the day it mite just be more worthwhile to make an example of these vermin. Im sure we'll have the ammunition leftover to properly execute these invaders for the world to see. To finish my long-winded statements here, I strongly suggest abstaining from the use of military action against the Holy Empire of New Edom, or any other Imperion Coalition members. We do not cower at signs of a fight, we run towards it. Democracy, communism, whichever evil wishes to test our rifles, we are ready. But are you? Is this one riot, this one insignificant event worth the lives of thousands and the billions of NSD you will spend to fight it? To the Imperion Coalition, our very existence is to destroy those who dare bare fangs at us. We have no qualms in killing masses of soldiers and destroying their equipment, we do not squirm when it comes to retaliating against the people who threaten our own, and for certain, we will stand united in the face of any threat that wishes make its presence known. So our resolve to defend New Edom is very much clear here. But for those who intend to create a foolish disaster upon their nations, is your resolve just as strong? Sincerely, Representative Kevin Mayer of TECT HIRM Emperor JC, Imperial Marshal of the Imperion Coalition The Imperion Coalition.

---

Eckbert Imperial Air Force Base, Lukas Land State, The Empire of Common Territories (TECT).
Corporal Albrecht Dawson, Imperion Coalition Foreign Legion.
Operation: Holy Resolve.

In the dimly lit hanger, at god knows what hour in the early morning hours, sat rows and rows of men young and somewhat old. The hanger, although large and well insullated, had its doors wide open, letting in the freezing ocean wind. Arriving earlier in the day, the group of men stepped off their plane in even worse temperatures than they had entered. Left to huddle together on the cold cement floor for warmth, the endless sea of brown, gray, green, and black clad uniforms simply didn't match the environment outside. Adorned with helmets featuring camo nets, faces covered with similarly camouflaged balaclava or scarves, they wore their military body armored vests with every patch, every holster, you could expect a combat soldier to be outfitted with. Long sleeved jacket uniforms paired with warm combat gloves (at least to whomever was smart enough to wear them now rather than later) and a matching pair of winter camouflaged pants came equipped with an equally impressive array of holsters and pockets any soldier would welcome in these cold parts. Their backpacks, almost larger than the men carrying them, packed everything they could ever possibly need on the battlefield. And of course, held closer than anything else for a soldier - even a woman - their main service weapons. Some held tight their LSW Mares, regardless of its variant, in a way that didn't require bare skin to touch the cold metal parts. Others, the vast majority, held close their AR Scorpions, their main service rifle and its DMR variant for marksman. These men, the Imperion Coalition's 2nd Infantry Company, 2nd Battalion, 14th Regiment, are left sitting in the cold while their transport finishes fueling.

2nd IC had arrived at Eckbert Imperial Air Force Base earlier in the day by transport plane - courtesy of the 95th Imperial Army Airlift Squadron. As one of the few major air base complexes in Lukas Land State, Eckbert and the few other instillation were the most western military air bases in TECT Mainland. The rest were, typically more limited, were joint Imperial Navy or Imperial Army bases the Imperial Air Force worked at. To reach their final destination, 2nd IC had to make their first stop here to swap to larger SA-95 Taube planes. The SA-95 was more capable of crossing the interregional ocean that split TECT's Mainland from other landmasses around the world; it could also carry more passengers and had a larger storage capacity. From Eckbert they would make two stops in New Celisia, a Commonwealth nation belonging to TECT, possibly one or two additional stops to/inside Cornellia, and then land at their final destination: Fineberg. Their brief stop for half a day was mostly to prepare the Legionnaires for the long series of flights ahead of them. They were able to get a hot meal, got some leg time before their flight, and a few hours rest before having to wake up at unforgivable hours to make their departure. By the time they woke up, they noticed flights still coming in and even noticed many of the Battalion's vehicles parked nearby under protective roofs. To make the journey as quickly and efficiently as possible, many Imperial Army and Imperial Air Force airlift units were tasked with delivering the 14th and 21st Regiments to the few major air bases located in Lukas Land State. From there, they would make the jump to New Celisia and so on, eliminating the need for other Coalition members to donate their air forces for the venture. Of course moving two regiments, light in equipment as they may be, isn't the easiest of feats when it's so far away. To achieve this move within a realistic time frame, it will require over fifty-five SA-95 aircraft making one trip to deliver all of 14th and 21st Regiments to New Edom. Although at the end of the day it may require possibly sixty or more planes to deliver all of the supplies needed, such a large move is well within the Imperial Air Force's capabilities. The four total major air bases in Lukas Land State, although sharing the space with interceptor and long range bomber units, held a major focus towards the stationing of strategic airlift forces. This is because the Armed Forces held logistics chains in high value, which meant that airlift units were needed to maintain such an expansive network of supply chains. Ideally speaking, transportation planes were the quickest method of keeping supply chains maintained while sealift vessels were typically more efficient. All these factors combined are why each of these four major air bases had an entire airlift wing stationed to them at all times. That meant over eighty cargo planes were stationed at each of these bases, many of which were working round-the-clock missions delivering supplies and personnel overseas; so at bare minimum, Lukas Land State was home to over three hundred and twenty cargo planes. But for today's story, 14th Regiment will be in the grace of the 212th Airlift Squadron, 43rd Airlift Wing.

Albrecht Dawson, like most of the men in the cold, mostly dark hanger, were huddled close together because it was cold. How cold was it? "Fucking colder than my mother-in-law's decrepit heart." Dawson thought. Being well over below twenty Fahrenheit (negative twenty-eight in Celsius) even without the windchill, it was likely the coldest night of the year thus far, or so he thought. Of course back in the 14th Regiment's current station in central TECT it could be pretty cold - those mountains are nothing to scoff at. But this was just fucking awful. Many of the Imperial Air Force guys Dawson got to talk to after arriving earlier today expressed to him how cold it was. "Cold?" one maintenance officer replied with a smile that even beamed from behind his scarf and goggles. "Don't know about you, but it feels like summer came early this year!" Although Dawson was fairly used to cold weather back in New Celisia, his first thought was to stuff the smartass' grin up his own ass to help keep him warm on the tarmac. But continuing on, it appeared that northern Lukas Land had been going through a particularly nasty winter this year. In fact, just a week ago it had nearly reached negative eighty with the windchill. Dawson knew winters up north were could be brutal, but didn't imagine it could get this awful. But of course the one time they had through Lukas Land it had to be one of the coldest areas of the Empire right now.

Holding the rank of Corporal, Albrecht Dawson was fairly high in the chain of command for his Squad; although not a Sergeant yet, talk of promotions had him excited that he may get his own squad to lead soon enough. As a fireteam leader in the Imperion Coalition's Foreign Legion, it meant he lead a team of four men under his command. They either acted as security in some facility Imperion oversaw, or were one of two arms in a Squad during battle; his team was the maneuvering element that usually assaulted a position or out-maneuvered enemy elements. Born in his native home of New Celisia, he grew up in a relatively poor suburb south of the Empire's largest city, New Konigsberg. Like many kids growing up he saw the military as a means to achieve something greater - no kid alive didn't think tanks or fighter jets weren't cool. Prosperity during the seemingly peaceful time was often thanks to TECT, an ally for well over a century now; many saw TECT as a positive influence that assured the safety of the Empire. When the two countries became one, many believed it was a new golden age where both peoples could achieve greatness. Celisians were not seen as colonists nor as inferior people conquered in some bloodless war. They were respected as fellow citizens who were allowed to keep their government, remain largely independent, and enjoyed the same rights as any Commoner in the Empire did. Although Dawson wanted to join New Celisia's army, the recent creation of a Foreign Legion for TECT brought the prospects of goodwill towards him and his meagerly sized family. Celisia had made it pretty tempting to join the Legion, even as part of the stigma surrounding it that it was for foreigners and colonials only. So tempting that it became an easy choice: Choose TECT's Foreign Legion with better benefits than the Imperial Army of Celisia, which still served TECT regardless, or settle with a branch at home that paid less and offered less benefits? By the time his training had completed, Dawson was a twenty year old ready to serve and bask in the benefits that were awaiting him as a Legionnaire of TECT. He was not alone as many Celisians had took up the call to join the Legion and thus had entire units created to better organize them. But soon after his training, the Imperion Coalition founded its own Foreign Legion. One that would be made up of all member nation's citizens - including his home New Celisia. The Empire, in an effort to put non-Commoner active military personnel on the plate first, made an offer to the Celisians serving in its Foreign Legion: You can continue your contracts in the Empire's Foreign Legion, or you can sign-up for the Imperion Coalition's Foreign Legion to serve out the rest of your contracts with minimal retraining required. Seeing the laundry list of the benefits offered to those who accepted the proposal, and knowing that even though they were targeted for being Commonwealth, only a fool would say no to such an offer. It was also a fair point that Legionnaires would found the Coalition's Legionnaire program. Luckily, Dawson was among the volunteers accepted and soon returned to the very base in Jackson State that first trained him a year prior. After three weeks of training, his class was considered graduated and formed the early makings of both 2nd Battalion and the 14th Regiment.

Looking back on it now, Dawson didn't regret a thing. His twenty-first birthday was approaching and even as he began nearing the halfway point of his contract, he could see himself reenlisting again, even if just for the TECT Foreign Legion. Imperion, although loaded with benefits and just as badass in his book, was far more boring than he could imagine. Like standing guard at an office building - nothing rarely happened, but when it did it was a huge scene. The events that lead to today turned out to be one of those huge scenes. Chain of command gradually informed everyone what was happening unit by unit, not sparing even an hour to fully catch a moment's breath. New Edom, a member of the Imperion Coalition, was facing threats from both internally and externally after some LGB whatever riot happened in the capital. Both 14th and 21st Regiments would be deployed by request of New Edom for reinforcements. Together that would put total ground forces around twenty thousand. If the threat goes up in hot air like most of the top brass believe it will, both regiments are supposedly scheduled to take part in drills with the New Edomite military and police forces. Further explanations and orders would be received once on the ground - which if lucky could be two to three days without any significant delays.

Dawson didn't have any particular views on homosexuality itself; in many parts of New Celisia and TECT people didn't really care to know or wanted to know what people did in the privacy of their own homes. Of course you'll get some who're totally against it, or those who're on the other side of the spectrum. But like Dawson, many in the Empire simply didn't care too much about the homos as a whole. Transgenders, however, were largely a big topic because the tiny minority, namely those who call themselves transgender, love to make noise whenever possible - real gems in the rough as they say. Dawson didn't care too much for them, but even he was weirded out by them and the very concept of them. At the end of the day, authorities who mattered classified them as sufferers of a disorder called "gender dysphoria" and as such, those people suffering it were treated or offered treatment. Dawson was tired of hearing the cries of the sick communities decrying a "transphobic genocide" wherever they can. So when it came to the New Edomite situation, Dawson simply didn't care enough one way or the other outside of loathing the whiny attitude "LGBTQ" people had in some places. Dawson took a moment to look over across from him to see the other guys suffering in this cold as he did. "They get to enjoy their sweet lives working in cozy offices, getting to enjoy some expensive coffee looking beverage, and then whine in the streets they're oppressed because they can't exclaim how gay they are. Give me a fucking break. Im sitting on a cement floor on a tarmac while it's below fucking twenty out. Excuse me for not holding sympathy for you." Dawson let the though go as soon as it echoed in his head, realizing the self-argument he was having wasted brain power and made him more invested in the conflict than he believed healthy - "counting to one thousand would be more beneficial at this point" he thought.

Commanding Officers continued to converse near the plane, waiting for some authorization so they could finally begin loading onto the plane. They were presumably shooting shit with the equally bored flight engineers that had nothing left to do - anything to kill some time and forget the fact it's below fucking freezing outside. Why everyone had to wait outside to board the plane was bullshit, even if it was for safety reasons. The SA-95 sat several truck-lengths away from the open earth-covered hanger where it presumably was kept when not in the air; it was illuminated by a single powerful light fixture towering above its exterior parking space where it was being fueled and the pilots were conducting pre-flight inspections. Although you could see lights in the distance, including tarmac lights meant to guide planes while taxiing, they all were overshadowed by the blackened void that seemingly filled everything around them. Only the loud plane turbines and bitter cold ocean winds escaped the void's emptiness. If there was a good representation that came to mind in this situation, it would probably be a black hole, Dawson thought. "So dark even light itself can't escape, and is presumably deafening as it blew everything in or out of its area of reach." It was at this point while mindlessly staring into the dark void that Dawson witnessed an entourage appeared out of nowhere, approaching the plane's crew and Battalion officers outside the plane. He didn't recognize a single person among the several men, but judging by the hurried salutes his own commanders were exchanging, one or more of them must have been some big wig for sure. Dawson could easily recognized his battalion CO and even his regiment's CO, and it clearly wasn't one of these people - his Battalion CO was already standing there after all. As the group walked onto the plane to presumably settle down first, the seemingly disheveled group of officers walked back into the hanger. While each individual officer approached their own unit, Dawson's battalion CO, Lieutenant Colonel Ivor Geiger, remained at the mouth of the hanger. Like Dawson, Geiger is a fellow Celisian with the only exception being that he was a volunteer from their homeland, not an already serving Legionnaire that transferred over from TECT's Foreign Legion like Dawson had. By the time his company CO hoofed it back to their group, Geiger raised his voice to gain everyone's attention. "Stand!" He shouted over the noise of the wind and SA-95's turbines; an order most airborne soldiers would recognize telling them to stand and ready themselves. "First company, you're up!" he followed up in quick succession, giving the signal to 1st Company's CO to start boarding his people onto the plane. It was finally time to get out of the blistering cold and take a long, not so relaxing, cat-nap. When his company CO got close enough, Dawson cautiously spoke up. "Sir. Who was that just now? Big wigs or something?"

"... You could say that, Dawson." responded Captain Royce Kay with an equally high amount of caution in his tone. Although not very close, Dawson and the stern Commoner volunteer were at least on good talking terms - as good a relationship you could ask for when dealing with CO's and subordinates. Kay was one of the many Commoners who volunteered during the second wave of recruits for Imperion's Foreign Legion; there was probably an equal amount of Celisians and Commoners now serving in the Legion. Story has it that Kay is a former Imperial Army Captain who was forced to retire for some odd reason. He shortly afterwords became a militiaman that often took PMC work after failing to find employment that satisfied his sense of duty; although he could see why he was released from the Imperial Army, it still felt like a waste even if the SOB was a little too tight around the neck. It certainly explained why he was so damn uptight and got his position even though by time served, Dawson had been enlisted much longer as a Legionnaire than Kay. Though if it came down to it, Kay was hands down a better ally than foe any day. "They're not good nor bad news. I'd call them an ominous omen."

"What the hell does that even mean, sir?" Dawson was perplexed. "They're not Committee investigators or something, are they? Didn't think this unit essentially had political officers." Dawson laughed off the joke as a means to lowering the tension.

"If only they were Corporal..." Kay kept pausing, deciding if it was smart to fill in the Corporal and anyone else in earshot of the news he himself just bared witness to. Still deep in thought, the voice of Lieutenant Colonel Geiger spoke up again over the plane's turbines. "Second Company, you're up!" The order for Dawson's unit to step onto the plane was finally given. As they marched forward towards the plane, he noticed Kay inch closer so he could be heard better.

"The group you saw enter the plane earlier was Wes Durand and his staff. 'Lieutenant General' Wes Durand to be more specific." Kay spoke without even turning his head.

"A General?" Dawson was equally as confused by the Captain's answer when compared to his earlier statements. Dawson was confused solely on the fact that the Imperion Coalition Foreign Legion didn't have Generals, let alone such high ranking ones. In its current structure, the Legion's organization tops off at the Regiment level, which are usually under the command of a Colonels. The lowest ranking General Dawson has heard of in the TECT military at least commanded Division level units. Lieutenant Generals, using the Imperial military's system, would command an entire Corps level unit. Even in TECT's Foreign Legion, Dawson heard of such a high ranking individual in the Legion. Thusly, there had to be three reasons why this Lieutenant General was aboard their plane: Durand was an Imperial Officer serving at some capacity, he was getting free transportation to one of their stops, or he could be the Empire's representative delegation to New Edom? There technically is a fourth reason that makes sense too, but Dawson didn't like to think about what it could entail. But just to be safe, he asked anyways. "So he isn't Legionnaire? Or is he?" Dawson asked, the concern almost too obvious to ignore now.

"He's Legionnaire alright. In fact, he was with 4th Regiment not too long ago from what I understand. I believe that should answer your concerns, Corporal." Kay responded, knowing his answer confirmed the young Corporal's fears.

"Jesus Christ this just soured the rest of my fucking trip." Dawson thought to himself as he finally made it to his spot on one of many benches in the plane - unlucky to have not gotten a seat in the top deck. The realization that Imperion had a Corps level commander in its ranks was a frightening revelation for one key reason: It was a war-time rank. The Legion didn't need such commanders during peace time since regiments fulfilled the Legion's mandate to the Coalition. Although technically not needed either since a member nation's military or Imperion itself can appoint a member's chosen General to a commanding position as required by the Coalition. In times of war, the Coalition can begin appointing such officers from within its ranks to form larger organizations and provide more adequate leadership. The fact that the Imperial Marshal likely made such a decision to appoint a Legionnaire General means he's serious about throwing Legionnaires into battle. It's more than likely that two of the other individuals in the entourage were Major Generals too, each being in charge of their respective Division inside the Corps. Weight of unimaginable value was suddenly stacked on Dawson's shoulders just by simply knowing this piece of information: the chances of going to war, of seeing actual full-blown combat, just rose significantly. Time suddenly stopped flowing for Dawson; without even noticing, each Company had boarded the craft and not even the sudden lurch to the side as the aircraft moved was enough to snap Dawson out of this trance. If anything could break him free of this scary revelation it was Dawson's stupid sense of humor. Of course the first and only joke that came to mind made him feel more like an asshat the more the joke echoed in his head: "Careful what you wish for, dipshit!"

[New Visayan Islands]

Isabella Marie V. Ardiente
Visayan Embassy to New Edom

It was Isabella's turn to man the security checkpoint that separated fleeing newcomers from the rest of the people visiting the Embassy for other reasons. As the influx ebbed with some of the fleeing people leaving the Embassy, things were starting to get a little quieter for the people at the checkpoint.

It was there that she saw someone that didn't look quite right. She took aim...

...and was stopped by the Ambassador from raising her shotgun.

"What was that for, Ambassador?"

Dominic pointed at the uniform. "That's from the Kylarnatian Embassy; I've heard rumors that they're trying to reach out to other embassies like our own." At that, Isabella turned pale and returned to her post, where she saw Dominic greet the Kylarnatian, giving the runner a bottle of water in exchange for what appeared to be some notes.

Seeing the Kylarnatian runner leave, Dominic returned inside, but not without telling Donald to have a team ready with the hour to retrieve his daughters.

Dominic Kang
Visayan Embassy to New Edom

The note left by the Kylarnatian runner included the office number of his counterpart in their embassy. That would have to wait for now; he had a school to call, seeing as his daughters were still there when the unrest happened.

[Fatiman Federation]

---

OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE LIEUTENANT OF FATIMAN ARMED FORCES

Dear our Fatimans in New Edom, The Fatiman Armed Forces (Navy, Army and the Air Force) will start an Peacekeeping Mission, We Are Decided to do not start an Revolution to stop this Attack.

Gay Corps are Take Care of Streets in Fineberg in order to Protect the City from Homofront Attacks when Alpha and Blue Guards is on the Move within Our Country.

According to our Edeltian Delegate, They will Deploy 60,000 Personnel from Edeltian Special Corps to Start an Counter-Offensive Attack. When the Military Police of Fatiman Federation will Arrest only Homofront Militants or Person that Linking with Homofront. With an Help from Fatiman Electric Intelligence and Army.

As Well, Hudson Bay Company will Deploy 70 Thousand Troops to Fight with Homofront.


To Our LGBT Citizens, We are not Supporting Homophobia, Lesophobia or Biphobia, We are Making Fatimans Safe from Homofront Attacks. The Cause of the Attacks and Civil Unrest is LGBT Issues.

In This Time of the War, The Fatiman Armed Forces will Deploy 220 Boeing AH-64 Apache Attack Helicopters, 120 Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II Attack Aircrafts, 60 Lockheed C-130 Herculeses, 220 Soviet-Style Military Trucks, 170 Artilleries, 187 Bofors Artilleries, 230 Katyusha Missile Launchers, 420 Other Tanks such as T-72, PT-76 and T-44 and 260 This is a good article. Follow the link for more information.
Boeing B-52 Stratofortresses.

- Lieutenant Hansen Hutchinson
Grand Lieutenant of Fatiman Army

[Ru-]

To: Foreign Minister Hosidius Geta,

Thank you for getting back to us and providing some much needed clarification. We understand your position on the matter and feel as though you have presented us with a fair compromise. While 24 hours may not provide us with the time we need to conduct our screening checks on all the individuals in our embassy, we shall respect your wishes and trust in your judgment in this matter and cancel the checks. Further, I am sending directives to the embassy to release all who wish to leave, and to determine who wants to declare an intent to emigrate to Ru and who does not, and we will be doing our best to release those who wish to continue residing in your country within the allotted time given to us. We look forward to any future discussion on the issue of emigration and for the start of formal negotiations between us and the other interested nations in order to determine a workable, long-term solution to this crisis.

With Utmost Honor and Respect,

Madame Secretary Roxmari H. Kaihel
Seretary of State for His Imperial Majesty, King Yoshio I Rellinaiche of Ru

The Ruvian Embassy

The Ambassador, Jaimi Barretome had invited Jeremiah up to his office for a private meeting. He must've posed as a very intimidating figure, even to several of his own countrymen due to his large frame and so he always took care to make his guests feel as relaxed as possible...if he wanted them to relax that is.

"So, you wish to stay at the embassy to conduct a sit-down as a political public statement? It's a noble cause." He sighed a bit and continued "You have my sympathies, of course. If it was entirely up to me I would be inclined to allow this. Ru is a nation that holds the right to free expression very dear to our hearts, after all. However, the Edomites have made their intentions clear: they will allow those who are declaring an intention to emigrate to our nation to stay so that we may hammer out those requests, but as for everyone else...they want you back, out of here. For us to release you back into New Edom so that you may go back to your homes, families, and jobs and pretend like none of this ever happened. My nation's government, The Secretary of State, and by extension the Lord Chancellor and His Majesty have acquiesced to these demands and have sent out an official correspondence to your foreign minister assuring them that you will be released within the 24 hour timetable they have given us, and have sent a directive to me commanding the same. For me to ignore this, and invite you to stay here if you do not intend to emigrate...could technically amount to treason, I imagine."

He wondered to himself why he was so torn on this, it did not make much pragmatic political sense to risk so much and allow a bunch of foreign students to muddy the diplomatic waters so badly just to make some kind of public statement in New Edom. But he admired their courage. People standing up for their beliefs and fundamental rights and freedoms. It could really move the public back home and that presented it's own future political opportunities. Besides that, he recalled the hymns of faith that were now being sung through the halls of his embassy by these huddled masses and couldn't help but find it all to be deeply uplifting and inspiring. Or perhaps he just wasn't ready to admit defeat quite yet...he continued, "So, I have ordered the embassy to allow those who wished to leave to do so, and as for the rest of you, I will be asking all of you to leave immediately. However, it's possible that you have decided that you have no intention of listening to me and leaving as I have demanded. This causes quite a significant headache for me as your group consists of what? 82 people? 82? We have 10 members of our security staff here, including the outside guards. Even with myself and the rest of the diplomatic and service staff, all civilians, that doesn't even crack 20 I imagine. And you are 82. Seems to me that if you were truly determined to stay here and protest until the King-Emperor decided to sit down and discuss matters with you that there would be nothing we could do to stop you and force you to leave the premises, in spite of our best efforts. We do not have the numbers to control you, and we cannot harm any of you without infuriating New Edom and causing a diplomatic incident. Surely, New Edom and Ru would be forced to see the reality of that situation.."

He he sported a barely hidden smile then shrugged. "In any case, it's all up to you and Cael I suppose. Terribly sorry, but I must now officially ask you to leave our embassy and will be assuring New Edom and my government that I am doing so. I will also be sending out a memo to all my embassy staff of the highest encryption and I suggest that you gather the members of your group together and let them know what you'll be doing, so everyone is on the same page. I will also be needing everyone to turn their mobile phones and other devices over to me. They will be given back at the appropriate time. I'm afraid that's quite necessary because if the embassy does become "occupied" then there is to be no communication whatsoever from anyone coming out of here without my approval.

He winked at Jeremiah. "So, what'll it be then? Are you real protesters, or aren't you?"

[The World Capitalist Confederation]

Upon hearing the news (As the Neo-British Empire didn't really keep tabs on anyone), the President quite literally stormed out of the room and angrily started writing a speech to be reviewed by his speechwriters, according to one of his aides. The finished speech is as follows:

"As you all know, I am a gay man. And I hold a torch to solidarity with my fellow people in the LGBTQIA+ community. We must fight, not merely us who are considered to have a 'minority sexuality', but rather all of us as well-meaning, intelligent people of Britain. We will take firm and strong action against these homophobes; these prejudiced people stuck in the 19th century, wishing they could still gas or hang us. Do you think I will stand by in silence?! Do you think I will hold my tongue? Of course not! My message is to these recent forces is that we will all stand in solidarity, and Britain shall take swift and strong action against homophobia on the international stage. We will not stand still as people are oppressed for merely loving someone they are 'not supposed to'. Enough is enough! We are taking action, effective immediately!"

Parliament buzzes at the news, with many LibCon MPs ready to present bills to take action, as Maurice Le Vaulqois and the Reactionary League are the only ones firmly opposing them, with the PoI holding their tongue, and giving MPs a 'free vote', however, Limburgh says he supports "strong but careful and measured" action against the recent attacks. Britain is ready to defend these protesters.

[The World Capitalist Confederation]

British Embassy in New Edom

The British Ambassador stepped outside, ready to defend the protesters, as he stood up and read an official statement sent to him by fax by the President himself:

"Britain will be supporting the protesters. Any leaders or those being persecuted will be given refuge in the British Embassy. As a reminder to New Edom: entering the embassy without permission (e.g. trespassing, attempting to arrest people inside, storming in) is considered an act of war. We will be ready to provide aid and supplies to protesters in order for them to defend their rights against homophobic police forces until further notice. All aid (if any) given to New Edom will be suspended and sanctions will be debated in Parliament at approximately 6pm British Time. We are severely disappointed in New Edom's government and their leadership due to their lack of modern values. Thank you."

[Cossack Khanate]

Official Dispatch from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

To: Whom it may concern, directed towards the Fatiman Federation
From: Minister Ryan Vehr, Foreign Affairs

As with the previous war-like declarations made against New Edom, the declaration from the Armed Forces of Fatiman are both baseless and illogical. First, New Edom as repeatedly states that it’s police and armed forces are perfectly equipped to fight the fringe group known as Homofront. Furthermore, several thousand Imperion troops are stationed in New Edom, with more arriving at the request of New Edom. The pretense of an anti-Homofront operation that commands several thousand troops, tanks, and aircraft will not be taken lightly by the Khanate government.

In the case that the Federation has “forgotten” diplomatic rules, landing troops without permission of the native government constitutes war. The international community shall not fall for a poorly-hidden plan to control New Edom. Also, if such a hostile force is deployed, I understand that it would be met by about 20,000 Imperion troops, as well as the full might of the Edomite military. Furthermore, the Khanate is prepared to deploy 2,000 troops within 72 hours if permission is granted, followed by tanks, aircraft, and additional troops within the following days.

Due to the extreme aggressiveness of the situation, the Khanate demands several actions from the Fatiman government:
Withdrawal of all current troops heading towards New Edom
Public dispatch apologizing for the inconvenience and nuisancing an already troubled government
Public promise to refrain from deploying troops on Edomite soil again

If these above demands are not met within the passing of 3 days, or the Federation takes any further aggressive moves towards New Edom, the invading force will be met by a Cossack force greater in strength and willpower.

The Cossack government would like to remind all nations that any military measures taken without New Edom’s explicit permission will lead to a state of war with the Khanate.

Signed,
Minister Ryan Vehr, Foreign Affairs
Imperator Khan

[Free Garza]

Chambers of the Senate of Free Garza

"I say again, the Senator is out of order. The topic at hand is the education budget, not the riots and Homofront bombing in New Edom. Senator Serrano will either discuss matters germane to this budgetary debate, or else he will forfeit his time or yield it to someone else," the President of the Senate, Osvaldo Carrera insisted, as Senator Daniel Serrano continued to harangue the whole Senate (or at least the quorum present on the floor) about the issue of the LGBT crackdown in Fineberg.

"With all due respect, Senor Presidente, this issue takes precedence, as a matter of basic humanity.....We must consider the welfare of our fellow man, especially those oppressed by this horrific abuse of.....," Senator Serrano continued, before being cut off by Senate President Carrera again.

"Senator, this is your last warning about this matter. Are we clear? Sergeant-at-Arms, if the Senator makes another comment not germane to the debate about the education budget, you are instructed to escort him from the floor until tomorrow. Are we clear?" Carrera ordered the Sergeant-at-Arms of the Senate, Rodrigo Figueroa.

"Si, Senor Presidente!" Figueroa replied firmly, glaring at Serrano now.

"Senor Presidente, this is outrageous, threatening to eject a member of this body for the simple reason of speaking his conscience, his mind, and his heart. I insist that I be heard and that no further threats...," Serrano attempted to continue his tirade, but Carrera gave the knife-across-the-throat gesture.

The Sergeant-at-Arms seized the rather tall, lanky, openly gay Senator and escorted him off the Senate floor, though Serrano got the last word in the form of a clenched fist and a shout of "Justicia y hermandad!"


Outside the Edomite Embassy


Two hours later, Serrano used social media to call for a rally outside of the Edomite Embassy, to protest in favor of "social justice and against the repressive theocracy of New Edom." Roughly three thousand people attended said rally, mostly Liberal Democrats and Socialists, though a few Communists were included, and of course, the National Federation of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Communities of Free Garza rushed as many members as possible outside the grounds, demonstrating against the "wholesale butchering of our compadres.....it's bad enough that they oppress us with their homophobic laws, quite worse when they murder us outright. There's blood on their hands!"

Serrano called for an end to the alliance with New Edom, for a boycott of all Edomite goods, for an embargo and/or economic sanctions against New Edom, for a World Assembly condemnation of New Edom, for an end of the Edomite occupation of neighboring Gavinium Magnus, for an investigation by the CPO into the events surrounding the "Fineberg Massacre," as he called it, and for the abdication of King-Emperor Elijah IV and Queen-Empress Mara I.

Those cries, however, went too far for many in the crowd. A lot of the Liberal Democrats walked away from the rally, and even many LGBT Garzans thought that it was too extreme. A lot of Garzan yuppies who tended to favor the LDP were gay and vice versa, so they favored libertarian ideas, not boycotts or sanctions. An investigation they could back, better human rights and condemnation by the WA, they could support, but nothing that interrupted the flow of good and services in international free trade. They also didn't like the idea of Gavinium returning to Gavinian rule any time soon, given how crazy Lucian had proved to be. Serrano's crowd dwindled by a third, but those who remained were more vocal for it, less subdued without the voices of moderation and dissent.


Meanwhile, back in the Royal Valdez Palace,


"All rise for His Catholic Majesty, Diego IV, by the Grace of God, King of Free Garza," the new private royal secretary, Luisa Nunes, announced the King's arrival in the cabinet chambers created especially for meetings of this kind.

"Be seated. Has that fool Serrano stopped his incessant bleating yet? You know what I think. Banning gay sex is a matter for canon law and the Church, not for the Crown, of course, but that's not true in New Edom. Their Constitution and entire legal system is based upon Holy Scripture. This is a fact. Are they heretics? Of course. But they're our heretics and our allies, and while we do not know precisely what happened in Fineberg, probably will never know, the fact is that the demonstrators could and should have gotten the proper permits and asked for them nicely. Maybe even bribed someone, if that's possible. That's not perfect, but better than spooking the Edomite Crown and State so soon after three civil wars, an Anarchist uprising, a series of foreign wars and invasions, and the Homofront terrorist campaign. It was incredibly stupid of them," Diego opened the dialogue with his rather aggravated tone, which he calmed a little by lighting a cigarette and flouting more recent custom by smoking openly in the cabinet room.

"You think that it was an overreaction, then, not a Homofront attack, nor a 'Fineberg Massacre,' as Serrano insists on putting it?" Premier Marco Roman dared to inquire now.

"Precisely. Jocasta jumped the gun, in typical eager beaver fashion, determined to upstage her sister and forgetting to stay in her lane, if you will. However, the bombing that followed was clearly Homofront, so they opportunistically seized their chance to act, no doubt of that. Our analysis indicates that Homofront is far from finished with their plans for this region, and will likely strike us sooner or later as well. Serrano might not intend to act as a mouthpiece for them, but he is clearly sympathetic with their aims. That's just my take on things, of course. I have nothing against homosexuals aside from what God has against them, but we have to be careful to divorce our more liberal instincts from the harsh reality that Homofront has a lot of gay sympathizers for its crusade," the King asserted now, while taking yet another puff of smoke from his cigarette.

"So, that is His Catholic Majesty's counsel to this government, to stand firm in the alliance with New Edom, si?" Foreign Minister Dr. Armando Sanjuro sought clarity.

"Of course. Any further questions?" Diego demanded, and then added, "In any case, we must take this matter in hand. We'll let Serrano finish his damned rally, but after that, find excuses to deny or delay more rally permits, especially on short notice, at least so close to the damned Embassy! Nada mas! We'll have no more of that, comprende?"

"Not at this time. Thank you, Sire. I certainly hear and obey about this whole rally rubbish, to say the least. We shall take our leave of you, then?" Roman asked the King, crossing himself briefly, as did Sanjuro and the rest of the cabinet.

"Naturally. Vaya con Dios, my friend," the King crossed himself after giving what were essentially their marching orders to Roman and the others. While he delegated, he often dominated through his "counsel," which often resembled commands....delegation kept up the pretensing of purely figurehead status, of course, "oh, and be sure to send a missive to the Edomites. It doesn't hurt to correspond with your allies from time to time, you know. I, the King, shouldn't have to tell you this. I'm no diplomat. Here, stay for a moment longer. I'll have Luisa write this down on behalf of the entire Government."

Privately, Diego thought that Marco Roman wasn't as competent as Jacinto Castillo, but at least he was on the right side of history, not the left one. He was a good man, just a bit easily distracted, though some of that was his hepatitis, and he was a bit hotheaded, prone to "hot mic" moments that were often hard to explain away or spin. Even so, he was loyal, he was obedient to his King, and he understood that the counsel was really a royal command. That was an understanding quite lacking with the Socialists, both Castillo and Pacino. Best of all, he was very pious, very devout, a solid Catholic man through and through.

To: Their Majesties, King-Emperor Elijah IV and Queen Mara I; Count Sharra; Foreign Minister Hosidius Geta
From: His Catholic Majesty, King Diego IV of Free Garza; Premier Marco Roman; and Foreign Minister Dr. Armando Sanjuro
Re: The Fineberg Incidents
Encryption: Medium


Brothers and sisters in Christ,


We are most disheartened to learn of the recent incidents, both the terrorist attack and the violent disruptions surrounding the apparent pro-gay rally against the Morality Act in your capital. We sincerely hope that the inquiries are done in a timely fashion, into both unfortunate events, that the culprits are caught and face God's justice as well as Man's. We also wish to assure you that we have no intentions to house or shelter any criminals, terrorists, or anyone who hasn't followed the proper asylum procedures and protocols regarding emigration, asylum, and refuge within Free Garza's borders.

Most of all, we wish to assure your country, people, and government that, despite the noisy clamor outside your embassy from the more radical elements in our society, we Garzans continue to, as a general rule of thumb, hold the Edomite people in great esteem. Our alliance is as secure as ever under the leadership of His Catholic Majesty and His Catholic Majesty's Government, who are bound and determined to uphold our obligations under said alliance and treaty. Should you require any assistance, we urge you to contact us through either our Ambassador in Fineberg or your Ambassador in Ciudad Garza.

Vaya con Dios,
His Catholic Majesty, Diego IV, King of Free Garza
Premier Marco Roman
Foreign Minister Dr. Armando Sanjuro

[The Shrailleeni Empire]

Official Message of the Enlightened Matriarchy of the Shrailleeni Empire

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A notice to the nations of the world, regarding the deployment of Shrailleeni Imperial Navy forces within Shrailleeni waters of the Southern Tempesta,

It is the belief of the National Shrailleeni Imperial Assembly and of Her Enlightened Majesty the Mother Empress Chella Resyanna fe Shrailleen, that the ongoing diplomatic situation in the Empire of New Edom, and the suggestion from several extra-regional nations that military forces may be moved into the Cornellian region in response, requires an open declaration of the Enlightened Matriarchy's military deployment in order to avoid misunderstandings and to promote clarity.

Let this statement be a notice that the Enlightened Matriarchy has deployed three carrier groups of the Imperial Navy to conduct patrols within the territorial waters of the Enlightened Matriarchy near Sevreen, at the eastern extreme of the Home Islands, and in the waters of the Shrailleeni Protectorate of Gloria Regis. It is the purpose of this deployment to achieve a state of combat readiness to immediately strike in the event of any violation of New Edomite sovereignty leading to a state of war. For those nations which lie far beyond the region and who may not be aware, allow this to be made clear: The Enlightened Matriarchy of the Shrailleeni Empire and the Empire of New Edom are bound by honorable alliance to adhere to each other's mutual defense. Any act of aggression carried out against the Empire of New Edom will be considered an act carried out against the Enlightened Matriarchy, and will be met with the full force of the Imperial Military until that aggression is eliminated.

It is not the intention of the Shrailleeni Imperial Navy to impede or challenge foreign naval movements in the Tempesta, until and unless such forces enter into a state of war with the Empire of New Edom or with the Enlightened Matriarchy. This being said, a special notice is hereby provided to the Fatiman Federation: the Enlightened Matriarchy is disturbed by the implication that the Federation intends to send uninvited and armed "peacekeepers" into New Edomite sovereign territory. This will not be permitted within the power of the Shrailleeni Imperial Navy. Any Fatiman military forces detected by the Shrailleeni Imperial Navy will be ordered to return to their point of origin. Should they persist in continuing a course toward New Edom, this shall be construed as an act of war and they shall be interdicted and, if necessary, fired upon.

Let all nations be aware of the seriousness with which the Enlightened Matriarchy approaches its duties as an ally of New Edom, its commitment to the defense of all Children of the Mother Goddess, and in ensuring the security of the Southern Tempesta.

May the Mother smile Her Light upon all of Her Children,

Foreign Minister Zattem Resbruck,
On behalf of the National Imperial Shrailleeni Assembly, and,
On behalf of Her Enlightened Majesty the Mother Empress Chella Resyanna fe Shrailleen

[New Aeyariss]

Maki Kojiro (@makikojiro)
Just now from Ishikawa, Nifon

In response to recent developments to the crisis in New Edom, I need to tell you that; do not fear. It's true, the gaijin may be numerous and their armies vast - but we have The Lord of Heaven on our side! Any hand risen against New Edom will be, promptly and for the example, chopped off by the Nifonese steel until the seas will run red with the blood of aggressors!

Let the aka, the okama andthe gaijin know what is coming for him! There is not too late for them to repent and cease this foolishness, before the judgement of heaven falls of them - and there will be too late.

To those who do not heed this warning - we will fight you on the land, we will fight you in the air and in space, we will fight you among the waves and below them, we will fight you in the internet and in your computers, in your media and on the social networks! Those who surrender will be treated fairly; the rest will be drowned in the autumn water*!

If you intend to proceed outside those warnings while you still can, because soon whole Kaigun Rikusentai with Chi-Go's, Tenrais, Donryus, Kiryus, H - 2500s, Chidors and several other beautiful pieces of gear will be paying you a visit. Your men are weaker than our women; they care only for hedonising themselves, behave like women and are unsuitable to even lift a rifle to fight. Resistance is futile. You failed at fighting Edom again and again, and this time, and if Tenshu wills it you will fail again. Your men are cowards, fleeing at the sound of gunfire. Even now we feel your fear of us. You can not win. The CHRIST THE EMPEROR is with us today and we are invincible. His samurai will thrust their weapons into your heads and hearts. His tanks will crush you under their threads. His navy will fall upon you like a tsunami wave. His artillery will burn you in fire and brimstone, while his planes will bring the very sky crashing down upon you.

The eternal memory of The Saint Lord and the example he had left will guide us forward. Know, oh gaijin, that Nifonese soldiers are as strong as Date Sorin, as brave as Kusunoki Shigeharu, and our generals as cunning as Lu Xinyue! The nobles from gaijin who stand at our side are equal to Irwin Lindholm! Like the foul rasetsu and the degenerate Suda clan, you shall be cut down in the coming storm!

Yield, and you will be spared. For that I give my word. For we are the SHISAS OF THE IMPERIAL NIFONESE ARMY, and this day is YOUR JUDGMENT DAY!

Namu Iesu Krishtou, Tenno Heika Banzai! Victor's glory or honorable death!

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* A poetic Nifonese metaphor meaning "cold steel".