Hardboiled Reporting [Closed|Attn Mystria]

[Malgrave]

Outskirts of Aria, United Kingdom of Malgrave/National Workers' Republic of Malgrave, 1979

In the period known to historians as the Great Exodus, the United Kingdom of Malgrave had existed for just two decades as an independent nation, however in that short timespan the Malgravean populace through the work of the Ancestral Study Group had forged a strong connection to their new homeland, and so the act of leaving and surrendering such an important building in the Malgravean people's search for ascension to a bunch of authoritarian slavers left a sour taste in the mouth of many Malgravean citizens.

Yet despite the displeasure over their departure from their first homeland, a majority of the Malgravean people understood that the continued survival of the Malgravean state was vital to the dream of ascending and finally meeting the ancestors, and after a difficult and perilous journey the Malgravean people eventually managed to settle on a new land free from Imerian imperialism.

It was at this time that the Malgravean nation began to enter into a period of civil unrest, as the introduction of harsh rationing policies and the difficulties associated with constructing the infrastructure of a new nation-state led to extreme political factions with the Malgravean Communist Party and the National Council for Stability and Justice finding increased support among the dissatisfied populace.

In 1938 these tensions boiled over when several members of the NCSJ were shot by the security services during a failed assassination attempt on Prime Minister Jozef Wajda, and the Royal Guard was forced to fire upon members of the aggressive mob moving towards the Royal Paragon City of Wizna.

The Malgravean Communist Party and the National Council for Stability and Justice respectively proclaimed themselves representatives of the Malgravean people via the Socialist Republic of Malgrave and the National Workers' Republic of Malgrave and a large number of Malgravean citizens, including the vast majority of the Royal Malgravean Army went off to support the separatist ventures.

In response to the growing crisis, the Second Wajda Administration passed the National Security and Stabilisation Act of 1938, an act that alongside the establishment of the Territorial Defence Force put the country in a State of Emergency.

It was at that moment that the historical presentation was terminated and a piercing light filled the room as the black-out curtains were drawn back to reveal the rising sun, of course, the information provided was that which would be known to virtually every Malgravean citizen or foreign individual that for whatever reason was familiar on the inner workings of the Malgravean nation, however for some strange reason the current government had decided to allow foreign journalists into the country to cover the collapse of the NWR and so the powers that be had decided that a historical presentation was needed in order to ensure that said foreign journalists had at least a rudimentary understanding of the causes of the current civil war and the events that had led to this day

In more peaceful times the building currently being occupied by the United Kingdom served as a conference hall for local businesses, and advertisements for local scientific academies, vegetarian restaurants and the local fish farm could be seen on the wall, although the constant hum of artillery and the movement of everything from helicopters, fast-moving jets and armoured vehicles in the background indicated that everyone was clearly in a war zone.

"I am Captain Rosanna Tiraboschi of the Territorial Defence Force," Rosana said, the small Malgravean neko adjusting the glasses on her face before she continued speaking, "In the next few days the illegitimate organisation known as the National Workers' Republic will be destroyed by elements of the Territorial Defence Force, Royal Marines and the Royal Air Force, and in order to record the historical victory over an important blockade on the brotherhood and unity of the Malgravean people members of the press, including international delegations, have been invited to record the preceding events," the Malgravean said her voice turning more authoritative as she moved over to the next section of her speech, "You have each been assigned a unit to follow, and the members of the Territorial Defence Force and Royal Marines will be instructed to ensure that you don't come to any harm, that means that if someone gives you an order you should follow it. Per the National Security and Stabilisation Act of 1938, all footage collected must also be reviewed by a member of the Special Investigative Service and the Ministry of Cultural Sensitivity, and any member of the press whether they be Malgravean or non-Malgravean citizens will face severe punishments if they are determined to have broken the NSSA. Does anyone have any questions?"

[Malgrave]

Rensk, Socialist Republic of Malgrave, 1979

If one was to compare the situation currently ongoing in the remaining territory of the National Workers' Republic and the de-facto capital city of the Socialist Republic of Malgrave one would struggle to believe that they were currently engaged in the same conflict. In fact, within the confines of the city of Rensk, it was hard to imagine that heavy fighting was occurring just a few hundred kilometres away, as in the streets below the sounds of buzzing trams could be heard and in the nearby courtyard of the Headquarters of the Ancestral Study Group tourists could be seen taking photographs with the assistance of local ceremonial guards and enjoying the cooperative restaurants that had formed over the years due to the influx of local and foreign tourists.

Of course, the Socialist Republic had not managed to escape the horrors of the civil war entirely, and the presence of anti-air artillery and the occasional military checkpoint hinted at the current defensive preparations assembled by the city, while a large statue showcasing the emblem of the SRM and an eternal flame listed the vast amount of casualties that the separatist state had endured since the civil war had started.

In spite of the violence raging in the background the normal business of governance didn't stop for anyone, and Prime Minister Amaranta Anselmi had to suppress a sigh as the Minister of Finance and National Productivity finished his remarks.

"...we are well on track to increase the productivity of the timber sector by 13.57% following the five-year plan instituted in 1975." Mirza Charmchi said

"Is that in line with our requirement to bring more sustainability to the timber sector? It won't do us much good to consistently increase the productivity of our timber industry if we start running out of suitable trees in the next two decades." Amaranta replied as she looked over the notes provided to her during the meeting, of course, she wasn't entirely confident that the SRM would exist in two decades but it was always prudent to make long-term preparations.

"In accordance with the Sustainable Timber Extraction Protocol of 1973 both the state-run timber concern and the cooperative sector have been planting three new trees every time they cut down one. It should allow the industry to be viable for the next few decades."

Amaranta smiled at the news, the Prime Minister had been part of the effort to introduce the Extraction Protocol and hearing about its success brought joy.

"It is good to hear that development, Comrade. I await your report on estimated improvements to the heavy industry sector in the coming months." the Prime Minister said rising from her seated position to bow to the individual before another individual entered the room, the Minister for National Defence Eun-Jeong Choe.

"Comrade Choe. I understand you have some information on some recent developments that are happening in regards to the National Workers' Republic." the Prime Minister said bowing to the new arrival before signalling for her to take a seat.

"You are quite correct, Comrade Prime Minister," Eugen-Jeong said returning the bow before taking the offered seat, "We have been made aware of the deployment of additional units of the Territorial Defence Force and the Royal Marines in the region surrounding the city of Aria. I have also been informed by members of the People's Security Service that several aircraft have been reassigned from bases near our territory to facilities near the NWR. It looks like the United Kingdom are preparing for a final offensive against Aria."

Amaranta paused for a moment before accepting a new folder of information, this time on military deployments of the United Kingdom and the estimated size of defences of NWR positions.

"Is it likely that this operation will be successful, and have you received any additional contact from the intelligence service in the United Kingdom about this offensive?" the Prime Minister said hinting to prior contact that had been made between the two sides during key moments in history.

"I understand that the military force of the NWR has dwindled significantly in recent years, especially when you consider our recent gains against their territorial holdings. I don't doubt that they'll put up a strong resistance against the United Kingdom but current analysis stipulates that they will crumble within a few months at the most," Eugen-Jeong said before adding, "I have not received any pressing information from the United Kingdom's own intelligence service, but I have been led to believe that any assistance offered in the form of diversionary assaults or coincidental artillery and air support will reflect positively during potential peace negotiations."

"Of course," Amaranta said with a sigh, the Prime Minister hadn't experienced much contact with the United Kingdom's intelligence service but she understood that they weren't exactly straight forward with their intentions even at the best of times, "In that case, I will authorise limited offensive military action against the NWR," she said the Prime Minister frowning when she noticed an addition to the regular notes, "I understand that we are supposed to be coordinating supporting for some international journalists as well?"

"Yes, Comrade Prime Minister," Eugen-Jeong said with a smile, "I understand that several journalists have expressed their discomfort with working with the United Kingdom and so wish to deliver their report on the developing situation in regards to the NWR from the relative comfort of the SRM. I understand we have some of the journalists here if you wish to meet with them?"

Amaranta nodded in confirmation, although a small part of her wished to avoid the meeting at all costs, the Prime Minister suspected that the journalists would level off a list of questions that weren't related to the subject matter at hand but she had a certain respect for the field of journalism and so had a desire to speak with them.

As Eugen-Jeong signalled for the waiting journalists to enter the room, the Prime Minister once again stood and prepared to bow individually to the new arrivals.

"I am Prime Minister Amaranta Anselmi of the Socialist Republic of Malgrave," the Prime Minister said with a bow, "I have been led to understand that you have an interest in reporting the impending collapse of the National Workers' Republic."

[Mystrian Altea]

Mairi Pressman
The Foreign Press Correspondent Concerning the Counterfeit United Kingdom of Malgrave
The Aspiring Deputy Party of the Young Socialist Workers Party of Belmaria (ADPYSWPB)

"The ADPYSWPB has decried any of these accounts of state-collapse of the National Worker's Republic to be liberal slander and fake news coming from hostile agents to the people. What proof do you have that the party or the state is weakening and how can you prove to the people of Belmaria that this weakening is unrelated to the terrorism committed by the 'United Kingdom' who is enforcing nepotism and corruption of all social solidarity? They have create a 'nobility' on the basis of 'elective' monarchy and are reinforcing by choosing people based on the twat they swam out of. This is basically a betrayal of Malgravean values and should be shunned and combated openly." The reporter who spoke was passionate and wearing a grey outfit with boots and her long black hair was tied back into a pony tail, and her blue eyes were covered with glasses. "How do we know that this isn't yet another betrayal of Social Solidarity? The party must fight back against these foreign values being promoted by former Imerian Stooges."

[Malgrave]

Léa Séverin
Official Statement from the Ministry of State Security regarding recently published communist propaganda
Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of State Security and Paragon of Social Solidarity

"The Ministry of State Security condemns the illegitimate extremist organisation known as the Young Socialist Workers Party of Belmaria, a group that exists in stark contrast to the National Security and Stabilisation Act of 1938 which in the interests of the continued unity of the Malgravean people restricted the organisation capacity of radical far-left organisations that sought to destroy the very foundations of the Malgravean state and endanger the journey towards ascension.

The Ministry of State Security implores every Malgravean citizen to remain vigilant over the spread of illegal communist propaganda, information that seeks to weaken the social solidarity of the United Kingdom. If anyone has information regarding individuals or groups that might be reading or distributing material that is banned under the National Security and Stabilisaton Act of 1938 the Ministey of State Security recommends that the Special Investigative Service is contacted as soon as possible, and reminds citizens that loyalty to the principles of social solidarity will have their dedication listed on future employment files."

[New Dornalia]

Somewhere near Aria

As journalists were assembling and being given the riot act by Captain Tiraboschi, another group was assembling out in a small facility outside of town. It wasn’t much to look at on the outside--fairly anonymous, with a couple of vehicles outside and a sign urging trespassers to keep out, with serious penalties if they strayed too close. It wasn’t much to look at inside, either. The inside had some small offices, some small bedrooms with spartan cots, a common toilet and shower area, a small rec room, and a common mess area with its own little kitchen. However, aside from some MalTec encrypted communications gear, there wasn’t much to speak of.

In one of the rooms, there was a neko sitting down next to her cot, reading a letter. This neko may have sported cat ears and a tail, but she was clearly a bit different from the other Malgraveans. She was much bigger, for one thing . Taller, mainly. She also wore a uniform that resembled the Malgravean uniform, but was devoid of most identifying markings except for a nametag--”DiSevo.” Her belt also had a standard pistol holster onto it, but inside of it was not a normal Malgravean issue arm--rather, it was an unusually blocky pistol, with a stepped front that seemed to narrow as one got closer to the front, with what looked like black rubberized grips that melded to one’s hand.

The letter was also another clue that she was a bit different. It told a tale of violence, of the breakdown of law and order. And, given the faint smell of lemon juice and burning, it had been modified to conceal a secret message within an otherwise banal letter.

”Dear Eliza,

Thank you for your last letter. It is good to hear you are still alive.

I will be brief. The war between the First Citizen’s forces and the Human League grows with savagery every day. No one will want to admit it, but there is a feeling that the Human League is growing stronger, while First Citizen Ruiz’s forces grow weaker. This is especially after what happened in Guadalajara.

Our town has been occupied by the Human League. It is by the Grace of God that I have been able to get this letter out. The League has begun going to house to house, looking for prominent individuals associated with Ruiz, and also even associated with Jacinta and Elizabeta herself. Several members of your old unit have been taken in for ‘questioning’. Several more have fled for the hills. I fear the worst.

I don’t know how long I can keep this up. Do yourself a favor. Stay where you are. Do not come back. Not because I am angry with you--I have since recognized you made the better choice to stay abroad--but because if you come back, they will come for you.

I will write as often as I can.

Your Comrade in Arms,

Luisa.”

Eliza felt a chill up her spine. The last few letters had been tense--the Human League was becoming a recurring subject within them--but if there was anything to keep her here in Malgrave besides the SIS contract and the fact she chose to stay, well, it was the prospect that she would not have a home to go back to otherwise.

Just as well too, Eliza thought. There were bad men that needed killing.

Eliza folded up her letter and put it among her possessions, kept in a small duffel bag. She looked in a mirror nearby, and sighed. She muttered a few lines in Malgravean Ancient--which she had by now been able to speak without any trace of a Mexican Spanish accent--which equated to “How now brown cow how now brown cow.” She then slapped herself in the face, and then switched temporarily back to Spanish, going, “You can do this. You can do this. You’ve done this for a long time now. You can do it for a little bit more.” She sullenly stared into the mirror, and glared.

Her routine was then interrupted by a knock, and a greeting in Spanish, also, “It’s me!”

“C’mon in.”

The woman entering was another neko, dressed in a similar uniform with the nametag reading “Pesaro,” but with a darker complexion.

”Getting psyched up, Teniente DiSevo, er, Eliza--I mean, Antonia?”

Eliza turned to the neko and said in Spanish, ”Our handlers aren’t here, and none of the other Malgraveans are here, it’s all right, Sergeant Diana Rios. What’s up?”

Diana then nodded and said matter of factly, ”Well, Teniente, just wanted to let you know that our handlers are calling us into a briefing in half an hour. Apparently, it’s the big push--the one the Malgravean brass says will end the NWR once and for all. Our handlers are in on the action--which means we’ll be too.”

Eliza nodded, and then said, finally making eye contact with Diana, ”Tell our handlers we’ll be there soon, Sergeant. I just need to get cleaned up.”

Diana saluted, with a hearty, ”Aye, Teniente.” Pausing, Diana giggled as she looked at her hand that she saluted with.

”What’s up, Sergeant?” came Eliza’s reply.

Diana then looked around, and said, ”Oh--it’s nothing, Teniente. I just noticed that I saluted in the Malgravean style. Not like the way we were taught back home. I mean, I usually salute the others in our position using the salute we were used to. I just noticed something different was all.”

Eliza nodded, with a weary smile.

”We’ve been spending enough time here undercover as Malgraveans. We were inevitably bound to pick up local customs.”

Looking into the mirror, Eliza then said, ”Besides. The way things are looking...Malgrave may be the only home we have left. Better brush up on our characterization while we still can.”

Diana raised an eyebrow, but Eliza shot her a look that suggested it wasn’t wise to ask further questions.

***

With that done, Eliza and the rest of her people were assembled for the briefing at hand. Eliza herself lead the introductions in fluent Malgravean Ancient.

“Thank you, ma’am. Antonia DiSevo, et al, reporting for duty.”

[Legokiller]

Jolly Joyfeet
International Investigative Journalist for the Polar Newswave
Outside of Aria

The brawny king penguin beastling looked displeased by the instructions given for him and the rest of the journalists to follow. To be assigned to a one of a kind international job to show Silverdale the state of the Malgravean Civil War and the turning point of the war? Great. Not so much the whole part to follow to report what the Malgraveans want them to see, and get their approval to be released to the press. To protect social solidarity from the truth? Such are the dangers of shadow masters who blind the masses from the light. Jojo had no intention to play along as the discovery of the truth, the real story, lies out there.

“Good grief.” the penguin adjusted his baseball cap. “Cpt Rosanna, would there be an adequate amount of water for the crew and I from Polar Newswave? We penguins don’t fancy ourselves in hot temperatures. It’s rather unbearable if you ask me.”


Maldale, SRM

While the civil war in Malgrave raged on for decades, its lack of development and industrial capabilities spared them from the great tragedies of another civil war down south. A Great War that embroiled all aspects of Silverdalean life, many who had the money and chance fled the nation from its harshest winters, draft, starvation, and present danger. The Rubydaleans have the heart of the worker but not the cold thirst of a beast, and when the great dragon and its frozen horde came to the communes, it was doomed to fall. Those along side of Ruby Redheart ford to the SRM to rework her ambitions to bring her vision of a red Silverdale to life.

Decades passed and the dream faded away.

For those who have not returned to Silverdale after the civil war continued with either an unattainable goal of a socialist utopia or moved on with life to settle down in a valley within the mountains. Maldale was born to practice the Silverdalean way of life, and harbor those with magic talents away from the eyes of the superstitious and the SIS who aimed to make a fellow member not seen again. Rumors spoke of the SIS forced many to be tested and used as tools for the capitalist dog’s wars. Thus the town’s Druid Circle and many others kept their magical usage secret to avoid unwanted attention.

Beyond the agrarian fields and the homestead of Maldale was the nearby Aurora’s Weep Woods were a small meadow of flowers were circled by trees. The wind blew the flowing golden hair of a young woman who mediated and cared for the patch of flowers. This would be the last time she’d stay in her sanctuary as she followed her footsteps of her disabled veteran father to join the war, and now wore the standard SRM soldier attire. Her sapphire eyes felt sorrowful as she knew the danger of this task, and had to leave her hometown to meet with the others in at Aria. Before she moved on ahead, she needed to attend the flowers in the meadow and meet her teacher. Hopefully.

“Holly, is there anything troubling you?”

Her teacher was large and taller than any elf and was thicker skinned alongside her charming pear body build with the blood of giants. The light furred clothed teacher glanced down at her smaller student, her green long ponytail fell on her shoulder and gave a friendly nice. Holly knew that her teacher Tuiwil appeared in these lands after the arrival of the Malgraveans amongst her many visits in the lands, and when her husband was need of shelter away from pursuers back home, she allowed him to stay in a hidden cabin in the mountains and was close to Maldale. As of late, Tuiwil cares for the animals whose homes were lost by the timber industry and cared for the druids in this circle. The rest of her backstory to Holly was mysterious and only vague mentions of her as a bird entering these lands undetected.

“Well… There is one thing that troubles me, Tuiwil.” Holly admitted. “You see, I’m rather nervous about this whole service to the military and if it can truly get me the money to buy you, dad and the rest of my family back to Silverdale alive to see Uncle Dolly and Aunt Shana. Maybe if I can convince them… Well we can reunite with them.”

Holly Goldenheart knew that in the civil war, House Goldenheart was fractured into many families, and she belonged to the lesser branch who had nothing and went to the Rubydaleans. It was a terrible period in her family’s history. Many of the member after the war were dead, stripped of their noble titles, lost great wealth, and the survivors disowned her family in Malgrave as traitors. The only ones who cared were Shana, who helped out her family when they fled to SRM with the help of Comrade Ruby Roseheart, and Dolly who was outside of the family and didn’t care for family affairs of the Goldenhearts, and would happily accept them.

“And you’ll risk yourself to be amongst wolves to achieve it?” Tuiwil frowned. “Your bravery is honorable and your father will appreciate your efforts, but you must remember that the Malgraveans are superstitious, and there are others interested in benefiting their groups from your talents of nature.” She pointed Holly from her slight surprise from a passing Rohanian Bee-Eater. “If you wish to follow this place, be silent as a mouse and cunning as a fox. For us druids, mere men will confused our actions to be simple wildlife, and the phenomena of nature.”

“Um, of course Tuiwil!” Holly nodded. “I know one trick of using the mending spell and give a rational explanation that my hands are swift with all the parts presented.”

“Indeed.” Tuiwil nodded. “Your comrades value such rational expectations,and if you use such logic to make it mundane beyond the magical cause, they will buy it. This key to explaining your magic without being suspicious. I’ve lost another student beyond the forests from the borders, and transformed from a puffin to a man within a foolish place with many witnesses. It’s impossible to explain yourself with such magic in this land, and he ended up disappearing after his arrest soon after. I wish this fate won’t be the same as yours.”

“Well…” Holly leaned over and winked at her teacher. “Obviously I won't allow that silly dead end mistake happen to me!” Holy felt that unlike Rainwhisper, she was way more skilled!

“Have good judgment and be patient.” Tuiwil replied. “I’ll watch over you when you least expect it.”

“Understand.” Holly stood up from the meadow of flowers and looked back at the dirt path. “I should be going now Tuiwil. I don’t want my friends waiting for too long. We should be moving out to NWR land.”

“Farewell Holly.” Tuiwill replied. “May the spirit of fortune and the guidance of Medina aid in your journey.”

SRM Command Post, MWR nearby Aria
“1st Maldale Airborne Company”
OOC: Collab with Malgrave

When Holly Goldenheart arrived back in her local until at the frontline base, she can see a few of the gruffed middle aged veterans from the Civil War who were still fit enough to still fight alongside the younger generation of Silverdaleans This includes the brown bearded and egghead man Miller, who fought in the arctic front. The introduction of the helicopter got many to use it as a favorable means of transport and support, and a lot of the penguins loved it.

“Oh thank goodness you arrived Holly.” A fellow Silverdalean human lady rushed over and titled her helmet back to hide her tied snow white bun, and smiled at her friend.On her shoulders hung a white ferret, who was the mascot. “I thought meowie caught you in her paws by now.”

“Uh, not at all Chloe.” Holly chuckled uneasily. “It’s better not to tease our Social Solidarity Officer Camilla. She’s trying to do her best.”

The Social Solidarity Officer in question didn’t seem to mind the joking remark from the Silverdalean soldier, the small neko woman simply adjusting the beret on her head to fit comfortably with her ears

“I’d listen to your fellow Silverdalean if I was you, Comrade Goldenheart,” Officer Guerra said with a small hint of a smile, “The Socialist Republic of Malgrave embraces the internationalist struggle against the immoral system of capitalism and the corrupt guard of the monarchy and enshrined power, and when the Socialist Republic emerges victorious in our own struggle against the internal forces of unbridled capitalism and monarchism we will assist in the global effort with our Soviet counterparts,” she said fully embracing her role of the promoter of socialist ideals with the unit, “At the same time in their wisdom the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic recognised that those that have come from abroad to aid our struggle would require assistance in order to fully integrate into Malgravean society, especially as such a matter improves cohesion between foreign and native military units and that means that we’re more efficient in our armed struggle.”

“Uh, I shall do my best to listen to the wisdom that Comrade Fairewind would provide…” Holy eyeballed Chloe, who had a slight hard time to hide her laughter. “Now, if I may ask, what measures would be needed to improve such cohesion with our unit Comrade Guerra?”

Camilla seemed pleased that the Silverdaleans wished to listen to her advice, the neko had heard that minor disagreements had emerged between the Political Officers and some foreign fighters.

“Comrade Goldenheart. In the Socialist Republic outside of official military channels it is considered polite to bow to individuals before and after the conclusion of a meeting, whereas the gesture can be replaced with a more professional salute in military situations. You should also be aware that Malgrave has a more stringent form of dress compared to some of the nation's that we’ve been made aware of recently, and that our national diet doesn’t include as much meat.”

“I am aware of the short amount of meat consumed by our nation Comrade Guerra. It’s more of an issue for our canvirouses soldiers like the penguins who depends on seafood, and the wolflings who consumes meat. As for the clothes… um, you’re aware that I was born in the Socialist Republic, but my fellow Silverdaleans don’t see a need to be stringent with clothing outside of winter. Some have fur and feathers, while others aren’t ashamed of exposure of skin. At least outside of a hot and heated day.” Holly replied.

“Besides that…” Chloe stepped in. “How low should the bow be meowie? For example, how low should a bow be for a superior to be considered polite, and how that would be different to a person with equal status?”

“I am well aware of the requirements for the non-human population of the Socialist Republic, Comrade Goldenheart. In part due to the hard work of those working in our cooperative fishing industry, and social solidarity efforts by those that don’t have to eat animal products we’ve been able to ensure a steady supply of meat and fish towards military facilities such as this one,” Camilla said, the neko having a personal stake in the safe delivery of the fish supplies to the local base, “As for the clothing situation the Silverdalean population should learn to adapt to their newfound surroundings. In professional spheres such as the military, and areas of the public individuals are expected to conduct themselves in a suitable manner, and so appropriate clothing should be worn at these times. In the privacy of one's own residential unit, however certain freedoms are permissible, although I would revise them when arranging meetings with individuals that aren’t comfortable with such ideas.”

Camilla took a step back at Chloe’s question, “I shall demonstrate the appropriate angle for bowing now, so please pay attention,” the neko said bowing lightly at a five degree angle, “If you are meeting someone you are familiar with like a close personal friend or an individual with a lower rank in society then a low bow is an appropriate gesture,” the neko then bowed at a slightly lower 15 degree angle, “this is for greeting individuals that we are slightly familiar with but not close or individuals with the same rank,” the neko then deepend her bow to a 30 degree angle, “a lower bow like this is used when greeting an individual with higher rank for example the Commanding Officer of this facility,” again the neko bowed lower at a 45 degree angle, “In the SRM and the UKM this style of bowing is used when someone has made a grave shameful action and wishes to apologise or when showing respectful greetings to the Premier or Prime Minister of the SRM,” at that point the neko paused for a few moments before falling to her knees and deeply bowing for a few moments before rising again, “the last form of bowing is extremely rare and is only used when an individual's actions have resulted in death, serious harm or deep shame.”

“Extremely rare?” Chloe looked confused. “Not to be rude, but papa Cornfield will have a hard time doing such an action.” Chloe began to feel uneasy as if she sensed the presence of the elderly Earth Pony’s stink-eye upon her. “. . Let’s just say he carries some misdeeds that requires that bow.”

“I honestly don’t see papa Cornfield would have to do such bows for his actions in the distant past. Although I’m not sure about that. . . ” Holly knew she wasn’t in the right position to speak for the Earth Pony. She didn’t know much about him and he kept a lot of his darker deeds a secret. “But I suppose us Silverdaleans can follow the dress code in military operations. As for public, it might be a different case as my people in Maldale do so more freely than the neighboring towns. Not that I see much of an issue there.”

“You are quite correct about that assumption, Comrade Goldenheart. It would also be unproductive to speculate on the deeds of one of your fellow comrades, as I believe that our steadfast intelligence service would’ve rooted out anyone with too dark a past to be able to effectively serve in any military units,” the neko said with a smile, “As for Maldale I have no control over the local decisions taken in that village as my responsibilities only extend to this particular unit, although I would recommend that you take my suggestions to heart and maintain a certain standard in public affairs.”

“I’ll take note of it and perform to the best of my ability to follow such guidelines, Comrade Guerra.” Holly replied. The secret druid knew that such guidelines, if followed through, might turn her into a “Maldalean” by the time she moved back to Silverdale. The dork of her family. Even then, there are so many wonders in her homeland like available to use magic openily to the public without some ominous spy network talking over you would be great to see. Holly hoped the war against the MWR will end swiftly before the end of the year so she could begin her journey back to Silverdale.

“You’ll do good to study them in the future, Comrades. I understand it might be difficult to accommodate to Malgravean culture but I believe that it is for the betterment of unit cohesion and your quality of life in the SRM,” the Malgravean said with a smile as the base kicked into an upper gear of mobilization, “I believe that any preparations shall have to wait until the future as we have been called to serve against the NWR.”

[Malgrave]

Jolly Joyfeet
International Investigative Journalist for the Polar Newswave
Outside of Aria

The brawny king penguin beastling looked displeased by the instructions given for him and the rest of the journalists to follow. To be assigned to a one of a kind international job to show Silverdale the state of the Malgravean Civil War and the turning point of the war? Great. Not so much the whole part to follow to report what the Malgraveans want them to see, and get their approval to be released to the press. To protect social solidarity from the truth? Such are the dangers of shadow masters who blind the masses from the light. Jojo had no intention to play along as the discovery of the truth, the real story, lies out there.

“Good grief.” the penguin adjusted his baseball cap. “Cpt Rosanna, would there be an adequate amount of water for the crew and I from Polar Newswave? We penguins don’t fancy ourselves in hot temperatures. It’s rather unbearable if you ask me.”

United Kingdom of Malgrave/National Workers' Republic, Aria

Captain Tiraboschi smiled at the curious Silverdalean journalist before briefly looking at her notes. In the years she had spent working for both the Royal Malgravean Times and the Territorial Defence Force the Captain had worked successfully with a few local non-humans without any major incidents, but she understood that foreigners didn't have that information on hand and perhaps shared some heightened concerns about working inside a nation that had endured a policy of strict isolationism for the past few decades.

"I have checked the weather reports for the coming few days and I don't believe that the weather pattern will be particularly sweltering. Some light to medium rain is expected to cover the lower regions of Aria over the next few days, with the more mountainous regions of the city experiencing some light snowfall." Rosanna said, "As I said earlier the TDF or Royal Marine unit you will be assigned to are responsible for your safety and that includes your biological needs. If you believe that additional preparations need to be made in regards to water, food or even sleeping arrangements please don't hesitate to communicate that requirement to myself or the commanding officer of the unit that you'll be assigned to, now Comrade.....Joyfeet do you have any further questions regarding the parameters of these press guidelines?"

[Legokiller]

Jolly Joyfeet
International Investigative Journalist for the Polar Newswave
Outside of Aria

"I see..." Jojo nodded his head. "Outside of basic accommodation, I believe not many of us foreign journalists are familiar with the guidelines of the NSSA and what the SIS would prohibit. Can you or a representative of the SIS provide some highlights and other minor rulings of the NSSA? I believe it is an important piece of info that many of us would like a small clarification.” He suspected that any negative light on the UKM’s actions in Aria would be severely punishable. He wondered how far does the UKM restrict the freedom of the press goes.

[Malgrave]

Jolly Joyfeet
International Investigative Journalist for the Polar Newswave
Outside of Aria

"I see..." Jojo nodded his head. "Outside of basic accommodation, I believe not many of us foreign journalists are familiar with the guidelines of the NSSA and what the SIS would prohibit. Can you or a representative of the SIS provide some highlights and other minor rulings of the NSSA? I believe it is an important piece of info that many of us would like a small clarification.” He suspected that any negative light on the UKM’s actions in Aria would be severely punishable. He wondered how far does the UKM restrict the freedom of the press goes.

Captain Rosanna Tiraboschi didn't bother to look down at her notes before she started to respond to the Silverdalean journalist, not only was the Malgravean acutely aware of some of the finer points of the NSSA due to her role in the Territorial Defence Force but she had it recently drilled into her head by members of the SIS.

"I understand your concerns, Comrade Joyfeet. It has been an interesting experience in the TDF getting used to the influx of no...how you say foreigners that don't shoot and enslave you on sight?" Rosanna said highlighting briefly that common wasn't exactly the first language of the Malgravean people, "In simple terms the elements of the NSSA that you'll be concerned by relate to the promotion of fake news or propaganda messages that can be utilised by either the National Workers' Republic or the Socialist Republic to incite terrorism against the United Kingdom and...well for the rest I will allow a representative of the SIS to explain." the neko said before being interrupted by a short human woman, the TDF officer saluting in the traditional manner before giving a deep bow and moving to the side of the podium.

"Comrade Journalists, on behalf of the Special Investigative Service I welcome you all to the United Kingdom of Malgrave," the woman said giving a short bow to the room, "I am Lance Corporal Eva Pesaresi of the Special Investigative Service, and I am here to respond to your concerns about the legislative controls that our parliament has continuously ratified since the initial outbreak of civil violence in 1938," Eva said pausing briefly to take in the room before continuing, "Comrade Joyfeet. I have every confidence that you'll be able to perform your duties to the best of your abilities without recording something that will glory the campaign of terrorism being carried out by the NWR, and I am certain that you won't broadcast information that will harm the operational security of ongoing military operations, however for the avoidance of doubt I can be certain that the SIS monitor in your units will appraise you of any footage or written passage that might accidentally breach the NSSA. I should also note that while the soldiers assigned to you will speak with you in the common tongue they will occasionally speak to each other in a language that we call Ancient, so please don't be alarmed if you spot a few conscripts talking in a language that is foreign to you as they are most likely talking about personal matters."

Lance Corporal Pesaresi stepped away from the podium and gave another short bow.

"If you have any further questions for either myself or Lance Corporal Pesaresi please ask them now." Captain Tiraboschi asked the rest of the group of journalists.

[Legokiller]

Jolly Joyfeet
International Investigative Journalist for the Polar Newswave
Outside of Aria

Jojo had no interest in the promotion of progranada work from either the NWR or SRM side. They’re mere distortions. Shadows to blind and control the people to give a message to the public. His readership had no love for pro-fascist rhetoric from a soon to be destroyed faction of the Malgravean civil war. However, the story about the Silverdaleans who fled to Malgrave who are refugees from the war to partisan members of Ruby Redheart is a worthwhile tale to discover for Jojo. Not the whole pro-communism part. Just to see how people's quality of life is like in the SRM. Of course, if Lady Aileen guides the light to that part. There are other things to discover here.

“I believe the answer sated my curiosity for now.” Jojo replied.

[The Batorys]

Sarkanotthon, Batory home province, 2848 by the Hyperborean Calendar (1952 CE)

The women’s boots echoed in the great hall of the Hearth with each step. Petite, they carried themselves as if they were much less diminutive, straightbacked and long-gaited. One was young, perhaps in her twenties or thirties, the other was much older, enough so even with her people’s blessedly slow aging, her hair had turned an iron grey. As had that of the woman they now approached, seated on the Throne of Bones.

Lena Sorvik had seen the Empress before, but only from a distance. This close, while still clearly taller than any Sorvik, Luzja Batory looked rather small… though Lena had only been a little girl the last time she had seen her. She wore black, as usual, having adopted the color of mourning at the close of the war. The skin that the loose, low neckline, sleeveless garment exposed was even more covered in tattoos than that of the Sorvik’s kin or other western moroii clans. Luzja sat with her legs crossed, her pose relaxed, leaning over more towards one armrest. Her throne itself Lena had seen in pictures, though it was even more ghastly in person, the back composed of ribs and limb bones, while the seat and ends of the armrests were skulls, all polished to a gleaming white.

“Ah, Rózsa,” the seated Batory exclaimed, her voice pitched to carry through the large hall. The earlier conversations among the army brass that filled the room had dropped off, and they had parted to clear a path to the throne. “Exactly on time, as always. Thank you for coming. I trust you are prepared to discuss your proposal? I find it intriguing. And is this Lena that you’ve brought with you?” There was a glint to her black eyes that made the younger Sorvik nervous.

“Of course Empress,” the elder Sorvik responded with a slight bow of her head, which Lena followed. “And yes, this is my pupil. And thank you for considering my proposal.” She stopped walking when she was just before the throne, within easy conversational distance.

Luzja leaned forward. “If I understand correctly, you suggest that we intervene in the Malgravean civil war, specifically, recognizing and even more, assisting the Socialist Republic of Malgrave, gifting them and selling them military hardware at cost.”

Rózsa nodded. “And volunteers, if possible. That is the essential idea, yes, Empress.”

“It would seem that they would be the most similar to your own ideology,” the Batory mused, cradling her chin in her right hand, elbow on armrest. “Are you attempting to convince the throne to help you spread communism abroad? Very brazen if so. Why would we not instead assist the monarchist faction?” The faintest hint of a smirk appeared on her pale lips.

“Because they’re unlikely to win,” the western moroii said simply. “While it’s true that the Socialist Republic’s ideology aligns very closely with our clan’s, we believe that at this point in the civil war, they are the more likely of the two acceptable factions to defeat the fascists.” Seeing the Empress nod, she continued. “Obviously, a fascist victory is the worst outcome and would be highly detrimental to our interests in Malgrave postwar. Aiding the Socialist Republic gives us the best of averting that.” In this, Lena knew, the older Sorvik was being truthful yet also playing to her audience. Empress Luzja was known to find the fascist political movements abroad distasteful and even loathsome.

With a whispered word to a nearby servant, the Hyperborean monarch summoned both a member of the General Staff and another woman who was likely a Dragon’s Claw, and conferred through whispers with them. Lena assumed this was to check the accuracy of Rózsa’s assessment of the strategic situation in Malgrave. After a few moments, the Batory turned back to her visitors. “A compelling point. Please continue.”

“Very well, Empress,” Rózsa said, apparently quite used to dealing with her Batory overlords. “Furthermore, this aid would serve as a sort of field test for our equipment. We know it performs well in exercises conducted in our own territory, but most of our current weapons have never been used in real combat. When the war ended over twenty years ago, we had essentially a different military than we have now. This will give us a chance to really see how well we learned the lessons of the last war, and how well we planned for future conflicts. Without starting another shooting war with Sevaris.”

The Empress nodded. “I am hesitant to export current military hardware, given that much of it still remains guarded even from my own people,” she said, referring to the often highly highly secret nature of BIA, BIN, and BISF systems. “However, I do find your idea promising, and think perhaps we can reach some compromise. I do wonder though, could these Malgraveans use it? The country is torn apart by war.”

The elder Sorvik smiled. “It’s true, their country has suffered greatly due to the civil war. But I think you will be impressed by the Malgraveans. They are a very technically savvy people who prize knowledge and scholarship, and their culture encourages innovation. They have the brains and technical experience. All they lack currently is the material, of which we have plenty in storage. We need only translate the operating and service manuals into their language, and provide spare parts and tools. They may even teach us a few things about our own gear.”

Luzja’s brows rose a bit at this prediction, but she remained silent, seeming to ponder the matter. “So, if we adopt your proposal, we will transfer some of our surplus military equipment. What, specifically?”

“Everything. Guns, trucks, tanks, tractors, aircraft, even ships if possible,” Rózsa said, her smile growing, accentuating the scars that the war had given her face. “As well as volunteers, especially for training.”

The Empress nodded, and turned to the officer and Dragon’s Claw who had previously advised her, whispering back and forth. Finally, turning back to the Sorviks, she announced “Very well, Rózsa,” with almost irritating familiarity. “I accept your proposal… though with a condition. We will recognize and supply the Socialist Republic of Malgrave, but not with any weapons whose technical aspects remain state secrets, as I have been advised by the General Staff that this would constitute a security risk. Furthermore, you are authorized to recruit volunteers to send to the conflict, starting from reservists and garrison units.” She rose. “Come, we will discuss the details in my study.” The Batory looked directly at Lena. “I look forward to getting to know your student better.”

Lena gulped, but followed her elder.


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Rensk, Socialist Republic of Malgrave, 2875 by the Hyperborean calendar (1979 CE)

Lena entered the room with a few other journalists. Her close cropped hair was under a black, now faded to grey fisher’s cap with the Drun Communist Party’s emblem adorning the center, the metal pin somewhat battered itself, no longer shiny. Her threadbare coat was adorned with campaign patches from her time as one of the Hyperborean volunteers, serving as a gunner first on a K-40, then K-47, and most recently a K-60 tank. Her battlefield reports had been where she got her start writing for the party newspaper. While she’d been back to the Batory Empire often, she had spent most of the last decade in Malgrave, specifically in the Socialist Republic, and become much better in the local language, though she still spoke with a fairly heavy accent.

"Comrade," she began, bowing slightly as was the custom in Malgrave. "What are we to make of the recent revelations that the isolationists are planning an offensive against the fascist-held lands. May I ask if there are any plans to do likewise? And what will I tell the comrades back in Hyperborea is the position of the Socialist Republic of Malgrave towards the isolationists during this time?"

[Kouralia]

Journalists' briefing room,
Near Aria

Toward the rear of the crowds of seated journalists were two figures who certainly looked like they weren't meant to be there - for all that they tried to act like they should. Unlike the smaller Malgraveans and more akin to many of the foreigners, the two tanned women were in their about six foot tall and were broad across the shoulder. Where many of the journalists were dressed in utilitarian clothes like combat trousers and walking boots, the two women looked more like country gentlewomen at the country club. Both were dressed in polished leather riding boots with jodhpurs and well-tailored sports jackets. One was clad in khaki bottoms and green with brown boots and a matching tweed flatcap, while the other wore purple tweed with black leather and with a white ribbon tied through dark hair that was plaitted back and held up off of her neck. Despite being indoors and having just been watching a video presentation while in a darkened room, the purple-clad woman was wearing darkly tinted sunglasses that left her expression - and indeed the focus of her attention indecipherable.

As the TDF and SIS officers continued to talk and others asked questions, the two women quietly conferred amongst themselves in a language that was clearly neither Common nor Ancient or any other Malgravean language. After some time, the green-clad lady raised her pen in the air before clearing her throat and sitting up when the Malgravean signalled she could speak. "Excuse me, my Lady Comrade." She said as the woman in purple unsubtly brought her hand up to cough into and cover the lower half of her face.

"Will it be acceptable to talk in one's mother tongue?" She continued in heavily accented common. "And also, what are the rules under which we must be being social with your servicepersons?"

[Malgrave]

OOC: two replies for one? what the heck!

Rensk, Socialist Republic of Malgrave, 2875 by the Hyperborean calendar (1979 CE)

Lena entered the room with a few other journalists. Her close cropped hair was under a black, now faded to grey fisher’s cap with the Drun Communist Party’s emblem adorning the center, the metal pin somewhat battered itself, no longer shiny. Her threadbare coat was adorned with campaign patches from her time as one of the Hyperborean volunteers, serving as a gunner first on a K-40, then K-47, and most recently a K-60 tank. Her battlefield reports had been where she got her start writing for the party newspaper. While she’d been back to the Batory Empire often, she had spent most of the last decade in Malgrave, specifically in the Socialist Republic, and become much better in the local language, though she still spoke with a fairly heavy accent.

"Comrade," she began, bowing slightly as was the custom in Malgrave. "What are we to make of the recent revelations that the isolationists are planning an offensive against the fascist-held lands. May I ask if there are any plans to do likewise? And what will I tell the comrades back in Hyperborea is the position of the Socialist Republic of Malgrave towards the isolationists during this time?"

Rensk, Socialist Republic of Malgrave, 1979

Amaranta Anselmi's neko ears slightly twitched at the Hyperboreans question as she took a seat, of course, the assistance from the outside socialist factions had been quite valuable to the survival of the SRM during the early stage of the civil war but she was still impressed at the intelligence-gathering capabilities of the foreigners.

"We understand that the isolationists should be initiating a large offensive operation against the fascist-occupied lands in the coming days," Anelmi said, "I wouldn't wish for the isolationists own intelligence services to pick-up on the movements of the Socialist Republic simply by picking up a copy of a Hyperborean newspaper, Comrade but I will say that the fascist-occupiers won't be pleased by such a development."

Journalists' briefing room,
Near Aria

Toward the rear of the crowds of seated journalists were two figures who certainly looked like they weren't meant to be there - for all that they tried to act like they should. Unlike the smaller Malgraveans and more akin to many of the foreigners, the two tanned women were in their about six foot tall and were broad across the shoulder. Where many of the journalists were dressed in utilitarian clothes like combat trousers and walking boots, the two women looked more like country gentlewomen at the country club. Both were dressed in polished leather riding boots with jodhpurs and well-tailored sports jackets. One was clad in khaki bottoms and green with brown boots and a matching tweed flatcap, while the other wore purple tweed with black leather and with a white ribbon tied through dark hair that was plaitted back and held up off of her neck. Despite being indoors and having just been watching a video presentation while in a darkened room, the purple-clad woman was wearing darkly tinted sunglasses that left her expression - and indeed the focus of her attention indecipherable.

As the TDF and SIS officers continued to talk and others asked questions, the two women quietly conferred amongst themselves in a language that was clearly neither Common nor Ancient or any other Malgravean language. After some time, the green-clad lady raised her pen in the air before clearing her throat and sitting up when the Malgravean signalled she could speak. "Excuse me, my Lady Comrade." She said as the woman in purple unsubtly brought her hand up to cough into and cover the lower half of her face.

"Will it be acceptable to talk in one's mother tongue?" She continued in heavily accented common. "And also, what are the rules under which we must be being social with your servicepersons?"

Outskirts of Aria, United Kingdom of Malgrave/National Workers' Republic of Malgrave, 1979

Captain Rosanna Tiraboschi's right brow raised in slight confusion at the question before returning to normal after Eva Pesaresi whispered something into her in Malgravean Ancient, "You are free to speak in the language of your homeland but don't be offended if you get a few curious looks from nearby soldiers," Tiraboschi said, "As for the regulations I don't believe anything prevents you from forming friendships with members of the Territorial Defence Force or the Royal Marines," the Captain said stopping briefly as the member of the SIS whispered something into her ear once more, "Oh. If a member of the TDF or Royal Marines attempts to engage with you in a relationship of a sexual nature you must report their conduct to a superior officer."

[Malgrave]

Outskirts of Aria, United Kingdom of Malgrave/National Workers' Republic of Malgrave, 1979

Captain Rosanna Tiraboschi looked out at the assembled rows of foreign and domestic journalists, as a junior employee of the Royal Malgravean Times prior to her conscription the Captain had been called to respond to the concerns of the various local and international journalists that had been summoned to report one of the closing engagements of the conflict with the National Workers Republic.

“I see that nobody else has any questions about the coverage of the upcoming operation, so if you all follow me we shall be travelling to one of the military encampments that is acting as one of our staging areas,” Rosanna said bowing once more to the assembled journalists before indicating for them to follow her outside of the conference all.

In the immediate vicinity of the conference hall, the preparations for the upcoming offensive operation could clearly be seen, from troops moving munitions and other supplies onto armoured trucks to conscripts preparing to enter Armoured Personnel Carriers destined for engagements on the frontlines, the Captain ignoring these preparations as she helped guide the assembled journalists to a trio of empty APC’s, their boxy appearance giving way to the fact that they were designed in the 1960’s.

“In recognition of the potential danger of such an operation the Territorial Defence Force has set aside three ATC61 for the purpose of travelling to the encampment I mentioned earlier, for those interested in specific designations ATC61 stands for Armoured Troop Carrier 61 due to the role it serves in carrying troops and the fact that it was designed in 1961.”

All the while, the gatas-in-disguise could be seen moving supplies and participating in the preparations. The orders were simple, and ones which “Antonia” was used to following by now. Look good for the journalists until it was time to fight. And then, when called upon, fight like Hell, because the world was watching and so was the SIS. It was old hat at this point, although there was incentive to protect the journalists too. After all, who knew if those guys would come under fire.

“DiSevo” and her people began entering some of the APCs destined for a staging area, AR-2s and kit in hand. In the distance, she could see the Captain talking to the journalists. She exchanged glances with the others in the APC and nodded; what the journos saw wasn’t their concern. The enemy was.