A Battle Unseen

[Elena1012]

Operation: Redemption 
------------------------------
Alkenne, Rildanor
June 3rd, 5677
01:18AM
------------------------------
The military truck went down the highway, following the convey. Alphonse Celice sat at the back of the truck, surrounded by other soldiers. Celice had his hands occupied, trying to write into a small personal notebook, despite the shaky ride. Besides the sound of the convey, the truck was silent, save for the occasional cough and small talk. Celice and everyone knew the orders they had received from President Solé. Surround the National Assembly, arrest anyone who enters or exits, and lockdown the city. It was a coup. They all knew that. Solé wanted reformists in the Movement for National Reconcilation to be targeted specifically, and placed high priority on Lucas Lajoie, Fabrice Pascal, David Astier, Néo Auch. Key reformists within the government, and treasonous traitors. Celice kept writing in his notebook, his writing shaky because of the transport. He was writing his thoughts. He felt conflicted about this. He never really bothered much with ideology. He just wanted a job that put food on the table. The military was the best avenue. He wouldn't write it down, but he kept it in his head that he was glad the war was over. So what if Meriath broke off a decade ago. They're much happier and better than Rildanor is. It's good that there's peace now. Even if there was no fighting for a decade, proper peace is good. On the other hand, if he didn't do his job, he would be without anything. And how would he provide support for his daughter? He stopped writing, closed the notebook and put it into a chest pocket. He sighed, and shivered a bit. It was late and cold. He looked to his right, outside of the transport. More conveys following behind.

Another soldier spoke up but Celice didn't pay much attention. He knew the orders, everyone did. No point repeating them. The truck made a turn and slowly stopped. Once it came to a stop, Celice jumped out, stretched a bit and got his rifle. They arrived at the National Assembly. As other soldiers left their trucks, he was ordered to join other soldiers in setting up a perimeter around the National Assembly. He sat posted at the road, helping other soldiers set up razor wire on the street and redirected traffic and curious bystanders. Pop. Pop. Pop. He heard what sounded like gunshots from inside the National Assembly, before the radio on his chest quickly fizzled to life, a squad reported to have cleaned up troublesome Assembly Members. It was a good thing Celice was wearing a mask. He frowned underneath it.

He was cold, and he didn't like this much. But he didn't have any other alternatives. The President ordered it. And the reformists were said to have done treason. A military coup was the only solution. All of Alkenne was going under martial law until Solé gave the order to go home. He didn't like that this had to happen so early in the morning but it could've been worse. More innocents could've been hurt. More than already. He was snapped out of his thoughts as he heard the breaking of a window behind him. Two other soldiers turned around and raised their rifles. He raised his cautiously and turned on the flashlight attached to it, seeing two Assembly Members trying to flee. He didn't immediately shoot, and instead ordered for the two to comply. He kept his finger off the trigger and repeated himself, ordering the Assembly Members to put their hands up slowly and step forward. 

One of the Assembly Members identified themselves as Émeric Peltier and while his voice was shaky, he seemed genuine in simply wanting to go home. Celice lowered his rifle a bit. This didn't seem right. The other soldier spoke up in his place, demanding the Assembly Members step forward or they will be shot. Celice paused for a moment. Shot? No no, this wasn't.. sure maybe the first few gunshots from that squad earlier were an accident, or it was the key targets Solé wanted dead. But these two? These two weren't important Assembly Members. This would be murder, even with military authority. He shook his head and spoke up, saying that the orders were to arrest and detain, not kill! The other soldier disregarded him, saying accidents happen and made the threat again. He started counting. Celice didn't like this. He had to do something. Before he could do anything, two shots rang out and the Assembly Members fell to the floor. Celice's heart fell.

The other soldier confirmed the kill on the radio, checked the bodies and then returned to his post. Celice stayed still. He could've done something. Anything. But he didn't. If he did anything, he would've lost his job or life. But... He has to do something. He moved his hand to the small radio on his chest, changed the channels and moved into an alleyway, feigning a quick patrol. He swapped the channel to the main military channel and spoke the truth.

"This is Sergeant Alphonse Celice in Alkenne, I.. I can confirm, President Solé has ordered Operation Redemption illegally and is conducting an illegal occupation of the capital and coup. Several Assembly Members have been shot and murdered already, and positions have been established across the city. This is a message to anyone, do something."

He hoped someone would listen to his message, and he left the alleyway. If someone in the military found out about this, then surely getting the rest of the military mobilized against Solé would be enough to make amends. It has to.

[Louis]

The beginning of the end. 
Distrito Real, Altéa, Egelion | 12:34 PM

---

The shift in the air was apparent in the city. The hot summer air was fleeting at the autumnal air came from the north. The city, quieter then usual, awaited the arrival of two highly important diplomats from distant lands. The hosts waited in a cold large hall. Golden paintings, mouldings, and elegant china waited for the diplomats. A room so golden, so warm yet so blistering cold. As the black state vehicles arrived to the palace, they were surrounded by royal guard and directed to scene the stairs to the entrance. Their arrival was semi-courteous. One diplomat was regarded as an enemy, the other a friend. They stepped into the golden hall. Waiting at their seats, five councilors in their white attire and maroon scarves, stitched with golden details. The diplomats sat to decide the fate of millions.

Mondragon II: "Welcome to Altéa, Madame Boutet. His Majesty welcomes you to the royal capital. Monsieur Pascal, thank you for your attendance. We have gathered you both here today to end the greatest stupidity of our time. We cannot go on and pretend that is all is fine. His Majesty, god bless his heart, is determined to bring a final peace to your nations, so long as you are all willing to accept terms.

We will be frank for we have not the time to so elegantly waste. We propose that the two fishermen be released immediately, Monsieur Pascal. In return, the Egelian fleet shall end the current blockade of resources to the mainland."

Pascal looks at the councilor and nods surprisingly. "This is acceptable to us, Your Excellency, I am honestly quite surpri--"

Mondragon II: "You are also to convince your government to end your fascist ways. We understand your policies have led to the ruin of the mainland. You are too leave Altéa and directly send this request to President Solé. The Island nation is to be recognized. These are our demands. Failure to comply will result in the self-inplosion of the Rildanorian State. Are we clear?"

Pascal: "Quelles idiots! You want me to singlehandedly ask our president to give up power and everything we've fought for?"

Boutet says nothing. She stares and very discreetly smirks at the unfolding debate.

Mondragon II: "Désolé, Monsieur Pascal, but you are in no position to debate our terms here. Your people are hungry. They are tired. They long for a better future...A future you are in no position to provide. Their desires are stronger than your will. It is best you trust us."

Pascal: "I cannot you monster!"

Mondragon II: "Monster? No no. His Majesty gives you grace. If you accept our deal and rid Rildanor of fascism, we can give you the aid you desperately need. It is your choice."

Montalivet II: "I can assure you the Armada will make sure you get this aid, as soon as you self-exile the fascists."

Pascal: "Merde, you are crazy to think I'll agree to this." He gets to from his seat and rushes to the door. He is stopped by the Royal Guard with their sterling swords.

Mondragon II: "Monsieur Pascal, I'm not sure your tiny brain intend this precarious situation. I'm afraid you don't have a choice anymore. Things are now in motion that cannot be undone. You either leave this city saving your people, or they will be the end of you."

Pascal stops and breathes. His forehead sweaty and face red. He turns slowly. "I will release the fishermen. I will call for a partial recognition of your shitty island, Madame. But I will CERTAINLY NOT give up my beliefs. I will not! NOT! NOT!"

His yells echoe in the hall. Then silence. An unbearable silence.

Mondragon II: "So be it, Monsieur. The people of Rildanor shall bring an end to your power just as they gave it to you. This is known.

Our Armada will be ordered to stand down and we shall end all hostilities as soon as you leave our hall. Can we agree?"

"Oui."

Mondragon II:"This agreement shall be written down and placed in the scroll of our laws. Such is the will of His Majesty."

The guards move from the door and they open them at the same time. Pascal rushes out in only 20 minutes. The councilors stand and prepare to leave.

"Foutet?"

"Oui Monsieur ?", she speaks to Mondragon.

"Go back to Meriath immediately. They will need you in the next few weeks. Thank you for assistance. Dios te bendiga."

"Thank you, Your Excellency."

"You are all dismissed. Gracias." He walks towards the long window in the room, picks up his coffee, and looks out the window into the city. Suddenly, the bustle of the metropolis was no match for the speed and identity of the meeting that unfolded

[Elena1012]

Considerations of the Past.
September 1st, 5679
------------------------
Sherab Aurousseau picked up the remote and turned off the TV. The Bajoum Strike came to an end peacefully and Metz-Leonid was calming down. A bit. She sat down and thought to herself. What the hell was Passereau thinking. Threatening the Revolution like this? Our spot in the global order. All for a desert? Ridiculous. She got up and stepped outside. The sun was starting to set over Lenakha. Even Lenakha saw some protests and riots. The breeze kicked in, and she took a deep breath. The election was practically hers now. The SLP candidate, Paljor, he's not getting elected. The public want the CPX back, they want outsiders right now. She kept staring at the cityscape. This was what? The second time a collosal fuck up happened because of revisionists? The DPP almost killed Pan-Dovanism in the 40s, now Left-Green Dovani has done this. This is what democracy was doing? Allowing revisionists to threaten the Revolution and threaten Xsampa? Oh well.

It's not like the people would accept it being taken away. A part of Sherab didn't want to be elected. A part of her hoped Paljor would win instead, so someone can clean up Passereau's mess. She shook her head and reminded herself. This is the job of the CPX. Fixing things when it goes south. But..

A thought occured to her. Before democratization. The New Democracy Act. Everyone was skeptical of democracy and whether it would work. So, the CPX under Bhutia drafted the New Democracy Act. It would allow the XDA to launch a legal coup against the government if deemed to be counterrevolutionary or a threat to socialism. Sure, it was essentially a military coup but it would defend socialism. It would require the authorization of the Premier, Custodian and Commissary of Revolutionary Defense. Everyone knew the NDA existed, but no one ever considered using it since democracy is sacrosanct. But what if it was used?

She brushed those thoughts aside. The CPX accepted democracy. It brought democracy. She wouldn't consider ending it. She'd have alot of work to do once February arrived. Repair relations with Egelion, Bianjie, find a new trade partner for gems, figure out what to do with Canton 14. She sighed heavily. It was going to be a nightmare. But someone had to do it. It would be easier with the NDA. Maybe. But would such a move be worth it? No. It wouldn't be. She shook her head. Democracy is vital to socialism. She might as well start drafting her plans now. The public was already campaigning for her essentially. 

She couldn't undo the deal. Sadly. But, she could mitigate the damage of it and fix the mess the Left-Greens made. Banking reforms, foreign policy reforms, hell, maybe even some coalition reforms. Too much reforms. She didn't even know what to do about Canton 14. That was a grenade she didn't want to pull the pin on. But she would have to. It's a situation that the CPX would have to fix come February. It's not the first time the CPX was dealt unfavourable cards. Just this time, it was even worse. But it was salvageable. She already felt the headache coming from it. She took one last look at the city and went back inside. It would only get more busy from here.

[Louis]

Operación Marea Regia
Palacio de Villamor | Altea, Distrito Real | 9:09 PM

---

The wind was beginning to turn cold in the capital. With winter close by, the leaves on the trees began to fall rapidly. The sound of the city slowly went quiet. As the night approached, vehicles arrived at the homely seat of the monarch. The moon and the stars were set to illuminate a meeting that would change Keris.

The king sits at a long table full of papers, teacups, and broken promises.He is joined by Royal Councilor Mondragon, who reads the online press at hi seat. "Filthy rats. Sell out an entire continent for what? A morsel of land. Pfft... I've seen Luthorians handle the situation better. Lucero, what's our current situation? Have they agreed to the deal or not?

"They have, Majestad. I do believe that the proposals we set off are enough to counter the flood of traders from the west. We are hoping that the Jelbics do enough to counter the disastrous proposal."

"Of course..... of course. Do you think this will be enough for our investors to calm down. You know I do not like to see our numbers in red. There is opportunity to be had."

"Yes, Majestad. The IDE is beginning to send memos to the ANSE to ensure that the results of our negotiations with Xsampa do not cause more ripples."

"Indeed... Lucero, away from this political nonsense. Tell me, how is your son?"

"Oh- He is well Majestad. He is in his third year at La Academia Militar de Cartablanca. The usual for us. He is already speaking of taking my spot." He chuckles. "you know how they are. I think he will be a great aid, Majestad. Especially for His Highness, the Prince of Amateria. I believe they will be great friends."

"Good to hear. I hope Formoselle's kids are the--"

Suddenly, Royal Councilor Montalivet II barges into the room followed by three generals of the Royal Air Force and Head Agent Dolid of the IEI (Institute of Egelian Intelligence).

"Con permiso, Majestad", says Montalivet. "I come with news from Cartablanca"

"What is it Felipe?"

"Majestad, we have received news of a golpe in New Endralon."

The King stands up from his chair and grasps the marble table in front of him with anxiety.

"Como?"

"Last night, several forces have deposed the Commission and the acting government. There is chaos in the streets and no social order. If history recalls, this commission was set to make your late father the throne of the nation. While your family still retains rights to the throne of the country, as Prince of Zyldavia, you must make a statement or a move, Majestad."

"You must understand... Gentlemen. Things are now in motion that cannot be undone. Felipe, I want you to call for mass mobilization, but do not make this public. We must be ready to roll out whenever I make the call. We must have a reason.... You understand this no?"

"Of course, Majestad."

"I want ATENEA satellites focused on New Endralon. Our missiles on standby and intelligence forces infiltrating the nation immediately. We need to take them down from the inside first to clear the way."

"Majestad, what of diplomatic fallout?"

"Lucero..... begin Operación Marea Regia "

[Kubrick]

09:47, Meeting Room 12b, Headquarters of the RSB, Wiel, Kingdom of Wrnuke.

"..Carte blanche? On the whole thing?" He asked, with severe doubt in his voice as he glanced over the list of objectives. The Director-General nodded. "Straight from the JBT*, signed off already. Specifically asked for your team." For a moment he looked up, confused by the compliment, then he studied the list again. Full destabilisation, sea access for expeditionary force, local collaborators eliminated, assist and promote terror attacks, it went on and on. The RSB had not done clandestine warfare on a level like this since the Empire days, and even then it had been more nuanced and more.. gentlemanly. "So, I take my team and tick off these objectives?" He looked up at the Director-General, who smiled at him. "All that and more, you will have to work in a particular order, your briefing will speak on that, the sea access will be handled by your colleagues in military planning. Besides that, yes, practically unlimited funding and just one rule." He folded the paper and put it in his jacket. "And what is that rule?" "Don't get caught. Those that get caught enter their termination process." He could only nod at that. "Thank you, sir," he said as he left the room. After him a junior director, several generals and an admiral entered the room he just left. He went downstairs to brief his team.

10:12, Meeting Room 12b, Headquarters of the RSB, Wiel, Kingdom of Wrnuke.

The Director-General pointed at the map. "Sholemberg." The Admiral scoffed. "Impossible. The Migrant's Pass is actively being patrolled." The Director-General looked up and glared at him. "As we are aware, we do not wish to sail a carrier fleet in there and openly invade, that would mean war. But for the success of this operation we require some sort of grasp on Sholemberg." The Admiral peered back down at the map and pointed at Tel Bira. "That we could make happen, the Yavanton Bay is easily penetrated by our naval assets, I've read the after action reports on Rishon Le Hofesh." The Director-General shook his head. "Tel Bira has the banks, JBT prefers us to not upset the banks." This prompted the junior director to speak up. "Will they not object to Sholemberg?" "Not since we signed their banking treaty, they'll look the other way." The junior director stepped forward and pointed at Pontesi. "Well, perhaps there is an opening.. that and freighters?" The Admiral was about to speak, looked back down at the map with a puzzled look and remained silent. The discussion went on for another hour before a full report was ready to be presented to the highest levels of the Kingdom.

14:59, Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Grand Council Palace, Wiel, Kingdom of Wrnuke.

"Add the Goldblooms too, Judif, they will heed this call." The Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs glanced at the notepad beside her. "Tzafrir, Aristocrat, Goldbloom." The three that remained, he thought to himself. "Keshef is too risky for now, as are the few Banmek-Sntazed's that still live there, the King warned me personally not to trust them, they're still unhappy their line was ousted after their last relative lost the Empire. For the Tzafrir's he gave me a name.." For a moment he shuffled around the papers in his pocket, taking out a small note with gilded stamping marking it as from the royal palace. "Balthazar Tzafrir, and for the Aristocrats he recommended Louiz and Aharon." Judif nodded while taking notes. "I will get on the phone with the museum director, you make sure the RSB knows not to fuck this up." She nodded again, frantically. "I will put our best on this, Dwít, don't worry." He gave a sigh and stared at the report in front of him. The Duchess had been completely charmed by that businessman*, now their hawkish plans were about to become as hawkish as they could be. Deep down he suspected it was because of the ties Trmékez had to their defence industry. He shook off those thoughts.

*Jez Bltmojad Tep, the Peak of the Grand Council, the office of the Prefect in Wrnuke's parliament.
*Finance Minister Intrsmor Shlajkaisrmko Trmékez, billionaire leader of the junior coalition partner.

[Kubrick]

21:28, office of the Prefect (JTP), Grand Council, Wiel, Kingdom of Wrnuke.

As the Director-General of the RSB entered the office the Duchess looked up with an inquiring gaze. "And? Did the ambassador look upset?" He nodded. "She could make an excellent actress, stomped out of the building like you demanded the most outrageous things. Refused to talk to the press as well." She let out a sigh in relief. "Good, good, as long as they all think our talks stalled you will have some breathing room. My assistant will brief you on the concession-" He interrupted her. "Your Grace, these concessions are all well and good but I hope you do understand they will not last." She swallowed, for now it would work, he was right, but it would never last, not even if she wanted to. "I understand, Director, but for now please respect it and use it." She nervously fiddled with some papers that she stuffed in her bag. "I must go now, the emergency session to enact these sanctions, long lists to draft and parties to convince." As she stood up and walked to the door the Director-General gently grabbed her arm to stop her. Her heart stopped for a second, she always feared this man, his dead eyes are staring at me. "Your Grace, the teams are briefed and ready, Minister Z'nstro has given us a list of people to meet, the Pontesians have agreed to give us access, as we speak RSB agents are travelling to the Holy Land. People will die. Guilty people, yes. Innocent people, yes. People with families. Are you certain you wish to proceed?" A long silence fell, she felt a deep guilt for the bloodshed that would come but with that her resolve grew stronger. Majatra must be free. She looked up and stared directly in his dead eyes. "Proceed, Director, every step, no rules." After that she left the office.

[Doc]

Audience Side Chamber, Imperial Seat, Kaliburg
12:30 pm, February 21, 5680

Jacob Maxwell, new director of the Anantonese Yeudi Interest Committee was shown into the outer sitting chamber. There waiting for him was the Chancellor of the Empire, Lady Ericka Donahue.

"Come on in, and sit down," said the Chancellor.

"Thank you Madame," said Maxwell. "Will we be joined by either of Their Imperial Majesties today?"

"His Imperial Majesty will be joining us shortly, but let me make sure you are ready." Maxwell sat at the small table with the Chancellor. "It's about protocol. Are you familiar with the Informal Audience?"

"I--- I think so," said Maxwell, not quite sure what she was getting at. "When the Emperor comes in I..."

"Look, I thought you had been briefed before now. But I'll make this quick: First, the Tea is drugged. Drink it if you like or don't. He just has to offer it to you. Second: Your meeting is with me. This is an informal audience, but audience means listening: The Emperor will likely not say a word during the entire thing. But he wants to get the measure of you, so you're meeting with me. Otherwise, just follow what I do..."

Jacob Maxwell suddenly felt dread rising in his throat. "Wh---what?" He stammered, followed immediately by the sound of three knocks. The door opened and in walked The Emperor. The Chancellor immediately jumped to her feet and lowered her head. Maxwell saw the gesture, and nervously he also rose, rather too quickly it would seem as his chair flew back several feet as he straightened his legs right into the seat. It clattered across the floor. He instantly dropped his head in a low bow.

The Emperor, who was dressed modestly, stopped his gait as he watched the chair skitter across the room. When it stopped, he pivoted and went to pick it up and replaced it directly behind Jacob Maxwell. He then went to the tea service and simply said "We welcome you, Mr. Maxwell."

Maxwell, with head still bowed, muttered "Thank you Your Imperial Majesty..." almost under his breath, and he happened to glance up to see a Chancellor glaring at him, slightly shaking her head. The Emperor laughed quietly and said, "Madame, please be seated. Tea will be with you both shortly."

"Aye my Lord," answered the Chancellor, and then she turned to Maxwell, who was watching her for any cues, and she said "You may be seated." As they both sat, she whispered, "You're doing fine. Don't speak to him, speak to me. And remember to breathe or you will pass out."

As they both sat, Lady Donahue said "Mr. Maxwell, His Imperial Majesty would like to welcome you to The Imperial Seat. The Anantos are great supporters of your organization and His Imperial Majesty has been very interested in meeting with you and discussing some of your ideas for Kalistani foreign relations, in regards to the Yeudi Diaspora in Terra."

"Well... please tell His..." Maxwell was cut off as the Chancellor cleared her throat unmistakable. "Ask His Imp...." she quickly shook her head... and started mouthing some words silently. "I... I can't understand..." he whispered...

"Mr. Maxwell, Lady Donahue here is trying to tell you that you should speak directly with her and not to us," interjected the Emperor. "Madame, do you mind if we just dispense with protocol for this meeting, so that we may have a candid conversation with Mr. Maxwell?"

"Your word is the law, Your Imperial Majesty," said the Chancellor. "I was just..."

"Yes yes, I know," said the Emperor. "And you are a fine Chancellor. We shall officially suspend the protocol so we can talk like two people, but only for this meeting," said the Emperor, as he brought to the table three tea cups, saucers, small silver tea spoons and a porcelain tea pot on a mirrored platter. Into the cups, he poured a very aromatic and flowery tea. It was steaming hot, but not scalding, and almost as dark as coffee, but smelled of poppies. He set a cup and saucer before each place at the table and pulled up another chair and sat between the Chancellor and Mr. Maxwell.

"We are glad you came here," said the Emperor. "If its ok, our Chancellor needs to remain with us here, to ensure that anything we say, and by we, we mean you, stays within the bounds of the law. Is this ok, Mr. Maxwell?"

Not knowing who to speak to, Maxwell looked back and forth between the Chancellor and the Emperor, and then back to the Chancellor, who was by now urgently signaling with her eyes, to answer the Emperor directly. "Y-- yes, um, Yes it is Your Imperial Majesty."

The Emperor smiled and said "Are you quite alright, Mr. Maxwell?"

Maxwell gulped and then answered, "Yes, Your Imperial Majesty. I am just nervous. I've never met a real Emperor before." He immediately realized how ridiculous this sounded as he said it.

The Emperor smiled and said, "Neither have I, outside of Kalistan! We have this in common." The Emperor sat stirring his tea and sipping it from the metal spoon. Maxwell himself nodded, and took a drink of the now rapidly cooling tea. It tasted surprisingly good: A black tea with jasmine, hibiscus, lemon peel, and some other... he couldn't quite get the last flavor. So he drank another draught, this time larger than before, and the Emperor looked at the Chancellor who looked concerned all of a sudden.

"Mr. Maxwell... you are meant to drink that slowly," said the Chancellor.

"I must admit: I don't drink a lot of tea, but there is something about this tea that makes me want to drink a lot more of it. What brand of tea is it?"

"Mr. Maxwell... its opium tea. You should be advised... you will begin feeling it in a few minutes, so please, take it slowly."

Opium? gasped Maxwell. "Do you mean to tell me I've taken a narcotic? I... I have Temple this evening, its Shabbat tonight..."

"Mr. Maxwell, you were warned... But I think you'll be fine," said the Chancellor. "Just relax... everything will be ok."

As soon as she said it, Maxwell felt a calm come over him, as his nervousness almost gave way. "Mr. Maxwell, we are interested in your ideas for making connections to Yeudi Communities around Terra. Specifically your ideas for the Hulanevek Diamond," said the Emperor.

Maxwell took a second to process the words of the Emperor, but then, as if he suddenly snapped back to utter clarity, and with a new sense of confidence in himself and his organization's message, he looked at the Emperor and said "Your Imperial Majesty-- I believe that Yeudis world wide would like to see that Diamond. You may not be aware of this, but I think Yeudis in our world really admire that the House Ananto has done such an excellent job of keeping what many of them believe to be a Cultural relic safe through all the turmoil in the world. I think with Amudim in chaos, as it certainly is, Yeudis in the diaspora could really benefit from a unifying symbol, a clear message that they have a shelter from all the anti-Yeudism we are seeing rising in the world today. Kalistan can be that center for the Diaspora. And the Hulanevek Diamond could conceivably serve as a symbol of that Safe Haven."

The Emperor smiled, apparently satisfied that the drugs were having their effect. "But Mr. Maxwell, that diamond is utterly cursed. It will kill all men who wear it, and our wife, the Empress is also not interested in taking chances either. It was presented to Empress Pavlina as an effort to keep it safe from the fascists in Kundrati, not to be paraded around. So it remains in safe keeping."

"Your Imperial Majesty," said Maxwell, now slowly sipping his tea to maintain its strangely comforting effects. "I don't mean for you to wear it. I think it is important for the Empire to acknowledge it for what it is: A Yeudi cultural artifact that you and the Empress merely maintain a trust over, to keep it safe for the Yeudi people until such a date as it is time to return it home to where it belongs."

"And when do you think that date is, Mr. Maxwell," asked the Emperor.

"Tomorrow, yesterday... The year 9500, who cares, Your Imperial Majesty," answered Mr. Maxwell. "You have the trust and good will of the 3 Million Yeudis who live in this nation. What I am talking about is more like making it available for 10s of millions of Yeudis world wide to come and see. The Empress was gifted the Diamond from the Hulanevek. Its really unimportant how they got it. What is more important, I think is that you have it now. And you may think its cursed, but hiding it in a vault 50 stories in the ground or whatever, it does you no evil there, but also it does you no good either."

The Emperor sat back, a considering look on his face. The Chancellor took the opportunity then to raise the question, "Who's to say someone won't try to steal it?"

"Madame Chancellor," said Maxwell after another sip. "Their Imperial Majesties posses fifty diamonds of larger size and better clarity. We read the annual reports from House Ananto. If someone steals it, and there is a curse on it, they lift the curse from this House."

The Emperor laughed. "That is a very simple answer, Mr. Maxwell," responded the Emperor. "If that diamond is stolen, we have failed to protect it for the Yeudi People. So there seems to be a contradiction in your logic on this point."

Maxwell was silent as he thought about the words of the Emperor. "Your Imperial Majesty: Security is a superficial concern. You can put a militia on that diamond, but if someone is determined to steal it, they will find a way. I assure you, the benefits of displaying it, and using it as a touchstone for the entire Yeudi diaspora will yield far greater benefits in terms of good will of the Diaspora than any danger of it being stolen can outweigh."

The Emperor folded his arms. "Mr. Maxwell, your pitch is compelling... but... it does not yet convince..."

Maxwell took another maintenance sip of his tea and thought for a moment. "Your Imperial Majesty, I mean no disrespect or disparagement here, but: you may not know our stories, and for it, you can be forgiven. There are some people in this world who would kill to get their hands on that stone. As long as you have it, they cannot touch it. But to use an analogy, the Hulanevek is to them what Athosia is to you. Those are the people who work in the shadows, and spend their days and nights moving large chess pieces around on the global scale. They have found their way into the governments of many of your own adversaries through bribes, subterfuge and outright intimidation, and though many of them were wiped out recently, they always find a way to come back. Yeudis of the Diaspora believe they are that first group's blood enemies. We may have won this round, but these others will be back. Openly displaying that Diamond will be a constant reminder of what they cannot have. You can spin it however you want, but the Diamond has a far different significance that you can ever imagine, and its really not your fault. You are not a Yeudi: you couldn't be expected to know."

The Emperor slowly refilled Mr. Maxwell's now empty tea cup, and his own. The Chancellor had helped herself to seconds a while ago. "This is a wild story, Mr. Maxwell, and you will forgive us, but it is a bit difficult to wrap our own imagination around."

"It's more like a legend," said Maxwell. "Who knows if its real or not. But I am pointing out the significance of that diamond as a symbol for my people. Displaying it shows first that the Empire is not afraid of those forces which have so often infiltrated Kalistan's adversaries, and also provides Yeudis in the Diaspora yet another flag to rally ourselves around. People will come from around the world to gaze on this diamond. Yeudis worldwide will pay attention. It can do you no good locked in a basement in a dark gem vault."

The Chancellor, as if receiving an imperceptible sign from the Emperor, rose and said, "I thank His Imperial Majesty for his time today. Mr. Maxwell, we shall wait here until His Imperial Majesty departs." The Emperor drained his second cup and rose. "Mr. Maxwell, you have given us much to think about today. We thank you for coming here to talk with us, and will most certainly want to speak more with you, perhaps next time at our home. Have you ever been to Cliff House, Mr. Maxwell?"

Maxwell, standing as he followed the Chancellor's actions smoothly and carefully now, said "No Your Imperial Majesty. I have not had the pleasure."

"Next time at Cliff House, Madame," said the Emperor.

"If it is Your Imperial Majesty's Will," said the Chancellor.

"We wish you a fine rest of your day and good luck getting to Temple tonight," said the Emperor. "We may advise a nap first."

Maxwell, who felt the second cup of tea starting to take effect smiled dreamily, and said "As your Imperial Majesty wishes." The Emperor then turned and left the room, before the Chancellor came to him and said, "We have a taxi to take you back home."

"Do you think I did alright?" he asked the Chancellor.

"I think you did very good for your first time," she said with a smile. "Next time, don't drink so much of that tea. You don't have a tolerance for it yet. And next time as Their Imperial Majesty's guests, you will not be served tea. The Anantos tend to serve underproofed rum to their guests."

[Louis]

I Can Move Mountains 
Estostea, New Endralon | 6:54 PM

---

GET HIM, GET HIM! 

The snow on the side of the mountain crashed on the team surveying the valley. It was snowing, the wind was cutting through skin like frozen knives--the situation intensifying. A long range battle was taking place. A unit of golden caps (OOC: Egelian Special Unit name) was ambushed by a kuzaki military group looking for blood, looking for death. 

"COÑO HE'S ON THE CLIFF! USE YOUR TRACKING, MIERDA!"

"THEY'RE USING HEAT SIGNATURE. WE NEED TO GO AROUND THE CLIFF AND GET OUT OF THE LINE OF SIGHT."

"TARGETS SPOTTED. 500 METERS OUT, SIR"

"CALL IN AIR SUPPORT, OUR WEAPONS DON'T REACH. I NEED A SNIPER... PÉREZ, HERE! 

"YES SIR!"

"I NEED VISUALS ON THE TARGET. NORTH-NORTH-WEST BY THE CLIFF!"

Bullets can be heard flying by. The sound of firepower was silenced be the howling wind from the north. Distant jets can be heard. 

"I SEE THEM. 12 TARGETS, THREE HEAVY GUNNERS, FOUR AIR FORCE, ONE--"

A bullet goes through the lense of the soldier, creating a visible pool of blood so clear in the white snow.

"MIERDA! PÉREZ!.......... WHERE'S AIR SUPPORT?!"

"ON IT'S WAY"

A fighter jet is heard in the distance. Then a radio.

"This is Zeta-12. Ready to engage. Need target location, over."

"THIS IS SARGENT VILLANUEVA, COORDINATES SENT"

Suddenly, a bright missile lights up the sky. It soars across the sky. Its engines roar loudly. It hits the mountainside. The heat from the explosion is felt by the golden caps. The bodies of many dead are illuminated and recognized for a split second. 

"Direct hit, Squadron 12. Awaiting confirmation."

The bullets stopped. There was dead silence thoughtout the mountainside. Suddenly, more bullets from the enemy.

"FUCK THEY'RE ALIVE, THEY'RE ALIVE. ZETA-12 WE'RE NEED MORE SUPPORT..... FUCK THIS...*radio static*..... ATENEA COMMAND EMERGENCY STRIKE. REGIMENT 3, PORTESTI MISSION. I NEED A STRIKE."

"ATENEA Command, Coordinates?"

"SENT"

"Strike sent. ETA 2 minutes. Clear the zone. Contesa Hypersonic deployed."

"SHIT. ALRIGHT FALL BACK! GO DOWN, ATENEA IS ON IT'S WAY'"

The golden caps begin going down a path knowing the incoming disaster. Soldiers trip in the chaos. Ammunition lost, weapons lost. Bullets still in the air, some hitting their targets. 

"My faith is strong. My faith is strong.....*breathes*....You can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. It will move... It will move...."

Suddenly, the ground began to shake. The sky illuminated. Then, a quick explosion ensued,followed by a large break in the sound barrier. The entire mountain side crumbled. Pieces of the cliff fell down several feet. The mountain which was once there, now remained half on the floor. Smoke reached the sky, a reminder of the death and the battle that took place. 

"Men, we move on. Take what you can and we leave. We arrive at the capital in three days."

[Kubrick]

23:48, the wilderness between Haifbourg and Trachimbrod, occupied Amudim.

Four months. The preparation for all this had taken four months. She glanced at her watch. "Two minutes until go, radio the locals and remind them to start in thirty minutes," she barked at her second-in-command. She looked through her night vision binoculars. There it is, Haifbourg South and whatever corporate dribble they added onto that name. She glanced at her watch again. One minute. While packing the binoculars she looked around at the squad they brought. Three RSB officers including herself, six locals. The four cars had a further eight locals. Good recruits, very eager. Sometimes too eager. "Alright, team, let's move." Their previous observations had noticed a blind spot at the southern side of the compound, as the roads ran north, west and east the guards had thrown up fields of barbed wire and called it a day. Local boys had spent the last two days finding gaps and mapping it out for them. In a few years they'll carry rifles too. They arrived after a brisk fifteen minute walk in the Majatran night.

At midnight her sapper was cutting through the barbed wire and the team of nine moved inside the compound. Two stayed on watch near the exit, the other six placed the explosives. Silent as a mouse she snuck around the tents and counted her steps. Thirty, then left, ten steps, then right. Large and green. After the two minutes that felt like two hours she reached it: the armaments tent. She could hear two men talking inside, Vascanians by the sound of it. One laughed loudly. At least they were having fun cleaning rifles. She remained outside the tent and dug a small hole near the eastern side of it, right under the base of the tent. The ground was not too hard here. After placing the explosive and timing it for ten minutes she filled the hole. A quick glance assured her nobody had spotted her. She used the same route to return to their exfil and just after her the last member of the squad arrived. In silence they left the compound after which she heard shouting inside and an alarm was sounded. For a moment her heartbeat was raised significantly but then the engine sounds of the approaching cars became audible. Thank God, they did not find a bomb. Six minutes later the compound was engulfed in a bright light and a very loud bang.

The rendezvous point saw her wait for three locals for half an hour longer than ordered. "I'm sorry, team, we need to go now. The Yeudi sapper looked distraught, one of the drivers had been his younger brother. She put her hand on his shoulder and looked at him. He nodded. "We go. We fight other day again." She could only smile at him. "We fight another day, until they free your lands."

[Doc]

The Cabinet Room at the Imperial Seat
Kaliburg, Monday 9:30ish.

The Chancellor entered the room followed by two close staffers. The rest of the government was already assembled.

"Alright, give me the news," she said as the other ministers took their seats. "I want to be able to fully brief the Emperor by this afternoon."

IBSI Director Mel Blackwell responded, "The capital is in the hands of the Egelians and the fighting has, for the most part fallen silent across the country. The South Coast occupied zone has not had an incident in months, and Regular units continue to maintain the security cordon there. We are expecting a political transition to happen soon, but we are not sure what has become of the Junta in Kizenia."

"How are we doing on ensuring that Kalistan keeps a seat at the table with regard to whatever the final settlement is?" asked the Chancellor.

"Madame Chancellor," answered Foreign Minister Henry Greene, "We are working through diplomatic channels in Altea to ensure that Kalistan's interests are represented in any settlement going forward."

"What are they offering?" asked the Chancellor.

"Well," hesitated the Foreign Minister. "At this point, nothing."

"Nothing, Mr. Greene?" asked the Chancellor.

"Nothing is on the table yet," said the Foreign Minister. "We maintain effective military control of a port within the City of Luncasi, a strip of land along the southern coastline, and about a five mile territory north of both Luncasi and Deltabor. Those two points were grabbed for logistics purposes, to allow us to provide logistical support to Egelion's war effort."

"And what of the Kalistanis living there?" asked the Cultural Minister, Dr. Janet Simmons.

"Yes, they are fine," answered the Foreign Minister. "We arrived early, and maintained those two cities in peace and security throughout the entire war. They live as they did before the war."

"Ok, so what is Egelion offering as part of the settlement?"

"Well," said Minister Greene. "At the moment, nothing. They haven't offered and we haven't asked for anything. We supported our allies in getting rid of an illegitimate junta and to protect Kalistani lives and property. That's what we set out to do. Mission accomplished."

The Ministers looked at one another. "Mission accomplished?" asked the Defense Minister, Col Morris Grant, incredulously. "Billions of Imperial Rubles over several years and we get nothing in return?"

The Foreign Minister looked at his papers, straightened them as if he was thinking of a response and then answered, "At the moment, that's correct. As I said, Egelion hasn't offered anything and we haven't asked for anything. We did what we went there to do, and as soon as legitimate government is restored, we'll leave."

The Ministers paused and then peppered both the Foreign Minister and the Chancellor with questions. Was this always the strategy? Has Egelion doublecrossed us? Why would we have supported a foreign war where we get nothing from it? Why should a country like Trigunia get to annex a third of the country while Kalistan gets nothing from it.

"Ladies and Gentlemen," responded the Foreign Minister. "Listen: I don't know, or particularly care what arrangement that the Kerisians had to divide that country between them. Our goal there, our stated goal there, was to 1) remove the Junta from power, 2) support Egelion, and 3) Protect Kalistani expatriates and their property. We also would have liked to restore the legitimate government to the Country, though judging by Trigunia's greed, that looks less and less likely by the day, but that was not something we really ever had control over. We, however, did accomplish our explicit war aims. This is a win for Kalistan and we can now look to returning troops to Kalistan."

"That's preposterous!" said Colonel Grant. "We have the troops there, we have the supplies. We can and should take the territory we possess." Just then, the Colonel glanced to the door, and immediately stood. Others, following his gaze, also stood as well. As a body they lowered their heads as the Emperor entered the room.

The Chancellor spoke first. "Your Imperial Majesty, to what do we owe the pleasure of your company?"

The Emperor smiled, and moved to his own seat along the wall, and then invited his cabinet to be seated. "Madame Chancellor, We do enjoy listening in on the deliberations of our Government. Your passion and zeal for our policies is commendable. To our Defense Minister, we would answer for our Foreign Minister that Kalistan has no title to the Southern Coast of Kizenia, and much less one which we may pursue with the force of arms. Kizenia was never part of our Crown Lands, nor are they now, nor shall we ever find ourselves in a position to govern a foreign land, belonging to a foreign sovereign, and filled with foreigners. Our Foreign Minister is correct: We have, with the blood of our military and the treasure of our people, accomplished each and every one of our war aims. It is not in our interest to act like a rogue state and annex territory which is clearly not ours by right."

The Ministers looked at each other silently, before the Defense Minister spoke again. "Madame Chancellor, surely His Imperial Majesty has a care and concern for the Kalistani emigres and their property in southern Kizenia. Wouldn't it be better for them if we raised the Anantonese Standard over the territory we have already secured to ensure that our co-nationals can continue to live under a proper regime, governed from Kaliburg, rather than whatever the Kerisians intend to turn that nation into?"

"Colonel Morris," said the Emperor. "We are indeed concerned for our co-Nationals. But we wish to turn the territory back to its rightful government as soon as we are able. We need to be the example that others strive to follow, the standard that others fail to meet, rather than debasing ourselves to act as other nations do. We are certain that our Cousin in Altea will do the correct thing, but as long as order is restored in Kizenia, we have accomplished what we set out to do. Kalistan is, for better or worse, not a lawless nation- We aren't like other nations who get to ignore the laws we set for ourselves when it is convenient, or when we stand to gain from it. Especially when we stand to gain from it. We have asked our Foreign Minister to continue to represent ourselves to the Egelian Crown, to ensure that our interests in southern Kizenia are upheld, but thankfully we have accomplished what we went to accomplish there, we did it with few casualties of our own, and we have determined that it will soon be time for the Kalistani Regular Force to return home to family, and friends, victorious and covered in valour. This is not something our own mother or Grandfather could say for their wars. It is something we desperately want for ourselves."

The Chancellor spoke, "Well, ladies and gentlemen, there you have it. Mr. Greene, your work has been commendable so far and it is clear that His Imperial Majesty intends for you to continue to do it. Colonel, His Imperial Majesty's Government also thanks you and your generals, officers, and NCOs for conducting an honorable war and accomplishing Their Imperial Majesties' goals for the conflict. We played a valuable and important support role here, limited both our engagements and our casualties and accomplished what we set out to do. Nothing more need be done."

"Madame Chancellor," asked the Colonel. "Or I suppose, Minister Greene: How much longer do you anticipate Kalistani regulars will remain in Southern Kizenia?"

The Chancellor shot a glance to Mr. Greene, who looked back at her. "Its unclear at the moment," answered the Foreign Minister. "We will need to speak with Egelion pending the return to legitimate order within the State, but I believe Their Imperial Majesties' goals for the peace is at least a completely demilitarized southern Coast, and perhaps naming both Luncasi and Deltabor free and international cities, where Kalistanis can continue to live without concern for their safety or the safety of their property. It is unclear if that will even be on the table. So we will need to wait until Egelion begins standing up a legitimate civilian government in the country and we open talks with the restored Kizenian Government."

The Cabinet then went on to less contentious affairs, as the Emperor listened in on the discussions.