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- NWI Department of Internal Affairs -
Ladies and gentlemen, it’s that time of year again. While 2020 may have been a turbulent, the December holidays are fast approaching and what better way to celebrate than to host another flag competition. Yes, you heard that correctly. FLAGS. ARE. BACK.
The theme this month will obviously be the holidays. Have a crack at redesigning your nation’s flag with either a Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza or Saturnalia theme.
The submission period will be open from now until December 13th with voting taking place from the 14th to the 16th.
Prizes will include the choice between a random Epic NS Trading Card, a custom map made my Cymiopolis or free reign on influencing an NPC of your choice in RP.
May the best flag win and happy holidays.
“I’m pleased to meet you, I feel we have much to discuss at some point or another” he added
Anna remained somewhat confused for a moment, though a smile still remained on her face, wanting let the woman speak. Though Amanda wasn't so patient, but out of politeness in the situation she kept to herself. Both Kingsely and Anna started to become worried when the girl took off her glasses and turned around with a blushed face, was she sick or something? Though as she turned around Anna saw her eyes, a small blush forming on her face. Her beautiful Blue eyes captivated her but she managed to keep her cool and nod as the woman spoke to them. She had to just be nervous because she was the Prime Minister.
Though as soon as she said the words "postulated for pm" Amanda looked up with a sense of anger in her eyes.
"She already won." She said, her voice holding some venom inside of it. Anna looked over to her with a glare, shutting her up for the time being as she looked back over to the woman.
"I'm sorry about her, she gets a bit angry when she hasn't eaten in a while... but yes I am Anna West! Prime Minister! So...? What's your name?" She was indeed curious, wanting to know a bit more about this woman. She seemed older, like in the final years of college since she noticed the Saint Marks uniform. The small blush on her face would only grow though, the girl was quite adorable. What the hell was going on in her head right now?
Anna thought to herself for a second.
"What is wrong with me...." she thought, not letting a single word out of her mouth as she waited for the woman to answer.
Sal Crochek look around the room as he entered "yes this is good im impressed" he said slowly in a deep voice. He didn't want to give away his combat knife but he complied a free meal is a free meal. He went around greating the other leaders then went to find his seat.
He sat down and took the menu, he was fine where he sat as he didnt know any of these people.
"I will have... bear" he spoke
"With a side of fish please" he added
He started to think why Oopsidroppedmyrightsburgs leader would bring them here with no weapons, was it just a banquet or something more...? But he was distracted by the wind outside. He looked again at the menu.
" should i have shark instead of fish,oh wait i already ordered" he said to himself.
(Sorry if its short idk what alse to put)
Well everyone, it’s December 1st - that’s right, we’re officially two weeks away from Election Day. Most people would probably laugh and say two weeks is too soon to start campaigning, I beg to differ. Allow this moment to officially be the start of my campaign because no one likes procrastinators.
Secretary of Foreign Affairs - Funky Goats
Secretary of Internal Affairs - Cymiopolis
Secretary of Defense - The sakura nippon
Secretary of Administration - New united carolinas
We stand at a crossroads. From the time that I first joined this region, to becoming Secretary of Foreign Affairs, and to the end of my tenure, we saw a huge growth in the New West Indies, not just in members but also our standing with the NS community. I owe Kart a lot and I know he put his heart and soul as Secretary-General to elevate us to where we are now and I want to continue what he started.
Why You Should Vote for Me
To those not aware, I had some government experience in the previous region. As a former Senator and Director of Foreign Affairs, I’ll always take my role seriously and I’ll work hard to get what needs to be done.
My Goals
Now, I know I’m going to be repeating myself from last June but I’ll say it again:
I want to bring everyone to the table so that everyone’s voices could be heard. I’m all about region first before anything else, but I want people to recognize NWI as a region that sets an example.
We Can Do This
Obviously I can’t do this alone, and certainly not without your vote. Vote for me on December 15th and I promise you I will work my butt off for everyone of you. Thank you all and may the NWI continue to thrive.
The Banquet of Bystanding Belligerence
The man in the white suit scribbled the orders of the representatives onto his notepad
--Those who didn't order get the house specialty ;)--
Then, he spoke, "We hope the food will be more than satisfactory to the enclave of excellency held before me." He released a half-hearted smile as he glanced around the room.
Ravi uttered words that made the man freeze,"You can bet that if it isn't up to standards I'll have the chef's head."
The waiter froze, staring towards the floor... The representatives from other nations looked towards Ravi with no words. It was silent, nobody spoke a word. Ravi did not acknowledge the cold air, merely sat there and looked around. "I'm joking of course!" He began laughing loudly, with passion. The waiter began to chuckle as well, then Ravi stopped. He stared at the waiter for a few seconds, "Don't you have a job to be doing?" The waiter exited the room with haste.
Ravi glanced around the room, he appeared to be judging the others. He appeared calm, but sweat ran down the side of his head. The air was cold, and the temperature was too. "Antonios of the great Cymiopolis, I'm pleased to make your acquaintance once again. I'm sure you're wondering how I manage to be here, given the events that occurred at the last banquet, but some questions are better left unanswered. Nonetheless, I thank you for returning to the great Oopsidroppedmyrightsburg. Gentleman, ladies..." he glanced towards the Bucksdenian leader, "droids..." He glances around the room, analyzing the walls and the floor, he turns towards the door and motions one of the guards looking inside. The guard begins to shut the door, the building rattles as the door slams shuts. Ravi slowly pulls the briefcase out and places it on the table. He takes his time as he opens the lock, watching for movement from the others. The briefcase clicks, a beep is heard, then it pops open. Ravi reaches inside and removes a smaller briefcase, this one made of metal. He places this under the table, and goes back to the first briefcase. He pulls out small pens, they appear to be made of gold. He passes them out to each representative, names of the leaders engraved on each. He then places the excess pens back in the briefcase solemnly, with a slowness to his movements that appear saddened. "I apologise that the number of attendees was sub-par. I will shoot for a better number next time." He smiles, then continues, "Despite that obstacle, I aim to make great strides in this meeting," he looks towards Nationalist german empire, "great strides indeed."
He reaches back into the briefcase and removes three many-page documents. "This one here outlines a free trade agreement for anyone who signs. It keeps you bound to holding to the document, unless the nation commits an act against you or an ally. I assure you, this is for the best." He passes the document to North italian union. "Do not feel obligated to sign the document, it is purely optional."
He holds up the second document, this one is obviously thicker than the others. "This particular document, I do not expect many of you to sign. This outlines an economic and militaristic alliance with Oopsidroppedmyrightsburg. Do not worry, I take no offense to those who ignore this." He slides the document, once again, to North italian union, this document is notable, as opposed to the first one, which had well around fifteen spaces to sign, this one has a mere two.
He analyzes the third document and chuckles, then tucks it back into the satchel. "Your meals will be here soon, my dearest apologies for the delay. Also, do not worry about watching your tongue, the room is practically soundproof."
Raphtalia wasn’t so sure if the threat was a joke or not, so she made a mental note to let the chef know it was a five star meal even if it was only four. As for the documents, she wasn’t the least bit surprised. A trade agreement was never a bad thing, as long as they weren’t depleting their resources to the point they could not recover. Lysithea did warn her about this, though she did say the fish was pretty good. As for an actual alliance...she would have to pass for now. She knew little of the country and seeing as how Olé tended to be a bit abusive of his staff, she couldn’t go through with that decision.
As for Impa, she was feeling a lot more anxious. Diplomacy hadn’t exactly been what she was expecting at this dinner. Judging by the looks the other leaders, it didn’t seem like they were all on board. Impa wanted to make a good first impression but making an alliance or even a trade agreement with someone you just met would be the worst rookie mistake you could make.
“So...” Impa said to no one in particular. “Does anyone know this country well? You know, being the new girl around here...”
“Of course...We fully intend on compensating you for your losses and can even push it a bit further.” he stated. He repositioned himself in his chair. ”Whatever you need, just let me know.” he concluded, seeing the banquet about to start.
Order Up
The man in the white suit scribbled the orders of the representatives onto his notepad
Then, he spoke, "We hope the food will be more than satisfactory to the enclave of excellency held before me." He released a half-hearted smile as he glanced around the room.
Ravi uttered words that made the man freeze,"You can bet that if it isn't up to standards I'll have the chef's head."
The waiter froze, staring towards the floor... The representatives from other nations looked towards Ravi with no words. It was silent, nobody spoke a word. Ravi did not acknowledge the cold air, merely sat there and looked around. "I'm joking of course!" He began laughing loudly, with passion. The waiter began to chuckle as well, then Ravi stopped. He stared at the waiter for a few seconds, "Don't you have a job to be doing?" The waiter exited the room with haste.
Frigid, Frosty, Freezing
Ravi glanced around the room, he appeared to be judging the others. He appeared calm, but sweat ran down the side of his head. The air was cold, and the temperature was too. "Antonios of the great Cymiopolis, I'm pleased to make your acquaintance once again. I'm sure you're wondering how I manage to be here, given the events that occurred at the last banquet, but some questions are better left unanswered. Nonetheless, I thank you for returning to the great Oopsidroppedmyrightsburg. Gentleman, ladies..." he glanced towards the Bucksdenian leader, "droids..." He glances around the room, analyzing the walls and the floor, he turns towards the door and motions one of the guards looking inside. The guard begins to shut the door, the building rattles as the door slams shuts. Ravi slowly pulls the briefcase out and places it on the table. He takes his time as he opens the lock, watching for movement from the others. The briefcase clicks, a beep is heard, then it pops open. Ravi reaches inside and removes a smaller briefcase, this one made of metal. He places this under the table, and goes back to the first briefcase. He pulls out small pens, they appear to be made of gold. He passes them out to each representative, names of the leaders engraved on each. He then places the excess pens back in the briefcase solemnly, with a slowness to his movements that appear saddened. "I apologise that the number of attendees was sub-par. I will shoot for a better number next time." He smiles, then continues, "Despite that obstacle, I aim to make great strides in this meeting," he looks towards Nationalist german empire, "great strides indeed."
Nobody Reads The Fine Print
He reaches back into the briefcase and removes three many-page documents. "This one here outlines a free trade agreement for anyone who signs. It keeps you bound to holding to the document, unless the nation commits an act against you or an ally. I assure you, this is for the best." He passes the document to North italian union. "Do not feel obligated to sign the document, it is purely optional."
He holds up the second document, this one is obviously thicker than the others. "This particular document, I do not expect many of you to sign. This outlines an economic and militaristic alliance with Oopsidroppedmyrightsburg. Do not worry, I take no offense to those who ignore this." He slides the document, once again, to North italian union, this document is notable, as opposed to the first one, which had well around fifteen spaces to sign, this one has a mere two.
He analyzes the third document and chuckles, then tucks it back into the satchel. "Your meals will be here soon, my dearest apologies for the delay. Also, do not worry about watching your tongue, the room is practically soundproof."
[spoiler=Pingy Bois]North italian union Cymiopolis Bucksden Kysikstan Ventus Prime Nationalist german empire
"Generalissimo, I'm really sorry but as a rule our monarchy never signs deals like that. I'm sure we can have time to discuss terms and value possibilities. Ehm. I guess a trade deal might be interesting given your important exports of... Uh... Potatoes and.. Yeah we can talk about it. As for the military deal I'm afraid our relations are still too cold to develop any farther... But a couple more banquets like this..." he pointed at the potato-themed menu with a forced laugh, "... And we'll might be onto something".
Ventus Prime and Cymiopolis
RP: 弱肉強食 (Jaku niku kyō shoku, The Jungle Law)
After the victory in Japanese invasion against the Korean Peninsula and parts of Manchuria and Russian land. There was no doubt that some people may be rebellious against the vassal states Japan has set up. Mainly the exploitation of Manchurian with Mantetsu influence dominating Manchuria and Chosen (Korea) has left the people of Korea and Fengtian rather resistant to Japanese influence, hopefully this will change in time with their compliance slowly to grow.
대한제국 (Korean Empire)
Currently Korea is governed by a Military Administration with the Monarchy being a head figure or rather a puppet to the Japanese Empire. While Minamichosen (South Korea) has historically been under a Capitalist Democratic Government, Kitachosen (North Korea) has been a target to mass imprisonment of Koreans, even though the population of the Northern part of the peninsula has been twice as small as the Minamichosen. The amount of people that had been imprisoned were staggeringly higher than Minamichosen, this has resulted in less production coming from Korea along with rebellions happening in the Kitachosen.
Республика Трансамур (Transamur Republic)
The Transamur Republic led by an Admiral-Dictator of the former Russian Nation has been plagued with suspicion on her fellow colleagues. Her ideas seem radical to many of her colleagues and has been power hungry. While many of her colleagues plan to overthrow her, so as Japan does wish to do so and assert a proper Pro-Japanese candidate in the Republic.
The Vladivostok regime has become hopelessly reliant of the Japanese Empire, and the tendrils of Imperial influence dominate many institutions and aspects of Transamurian society.
中華民國奉天政府 (Fengtian Government of the Republic of China)
The Fengtian Government under Grand Marshal Kang Xun serves as a lapdog of the Japanese Empire for it's plans to grow influence and assert Seishin-ron plans in the continent. Though it's backwards industries containing obsolete machinery, inefficient practices, and serve mismanagement has led to them relying on great deals of investment from Japan and the Mantetsu's.
Despite its claims to the contrary, the Fengtian Government is plagued by endemic corruption, incompetence, and abuse of power, while being a newly vassal state of the Japanese Empire, it lowers the popularity of the regime in Fengtian.
Fengtian's Northern parts of the Heilongjiang Province have been used as sites for many of the death camps where a small population of Fengtian live there in a vast land of Mountains, hills, plains, and forests. Recently there had been a breakout with the prisoners fleeing from the camp, many of them shot though the body counts haven't been reported nor the known number of people that have fled. Which has raised concerns in Tokyo.
RP: 弱肉強食 (Jaku niku kyō shoku, The Jungle Law)
With instability rising in these vassal states, the Celestian Empress in par with the Minister of Defence has now changed conscription laws, previous conscription laws stated that those who are 18 are eligible to join the Imperial Military Academies. This now has been lowered to allow people over or who have turned 16 years old to join the Imperial Japanese Armed Forces. The Japanese Empire has witnessed an increase of 0.5% in Military personnel, which is about 1,731,235 people from Japan and other vassal states have joined the army.
Japan has also decided to increase military funding to expand on their naval capabilities at sea; their land capabilities in order to deal with internal and external threats; their air capabilities to deal with missiles, jets, bombers, etc.; along with their Space Force in order to combat threats that may do damage to Japanese communication satellites and threaten our airspace.
The Imperial Japanese Army, while ground force had outdated tanks, APC's, and motorized vehicles. They offered better equipment in small arms like cybernetic augmentations, exo-skeletons, new weapons, etc. Investment into tanks and new motorized and mechanized vehicles have been put into under the order of the Ministry of Defence.
The Imperial Japanese Navy have enjoyed a large investment from the Japanese Government for several years, though still with some of their ships relying on old technology and newer ships with up-to-date 22nd century technology. The plan for IJN is to retrofit or retire ships that are not needed or no longer capable against modern-day naval ships.
The Imperial Japanese Air Service has been mainly receiving a lot of investment over the following years after Japan had finally began to break out of their isolationist state. Their investments mainly went in par with developing space aircraft fighters or aircrafts capable of fighting in the exosphere down to the Troposphere.
The Imperial Galactic Force is a newly formed branch of the Imperial Armed Forces, mainly made up of newly volunteers from the conscription change. Mainly in order to gain experience in Space Engineering, IT, etc. Though plans have been made to further expand the IJGF as it only consist of 1 ship that has now been turned into a temporary manufacturing area in order to create ships in space in the Inari System.
Kiyomi: "Japan has been in decay for a century, now it is time for the Sun to Rise upon the horizon, if we fail to do so we shall be the meat for the strong to devour. Let us not have Japan succumb to internal threats like Syndicalists, let us not let Japan succumb to foreign threats, and in order to achieve this we must work together as smaller beings (cells) apart of a larger organism (body). Japan shall rise to its former glory and become prosperous once more." large cheers erupted and camera's had filmed her speech of the announcement of Japanese militarization. What Japan may do with a large army is unknown.
RP: 長崎 (Long Cape, Nagasaki)
Cargo ships have also been set out to Kadiya after the private discussion between President Takalska and Celestial Empress Kiyomi. These cargo vessels contain unknown items and materials. The recent delivery of some certain materials have reached the Port of Nagasaki, remains to be unfoled.
RP: Defences
Investments have been made for Surface-to-Air missiles, Counter Ballistic Missiles, Tactical High Power Microwave Operational Responder, and anti-ship defences. Many of these will be mobile units while some may serve as static defences.
RP: Civilian Economy to Early Mobilization
Consumer Goods from Civilian Factories have been reduced by 5% with around 3/10 of factories producing civilian goods and the other 7/10 either going into building static defences, special projects in gaining more raw materials, building more factories, or going to trading with other nations for resources or products. While still not in a Total State of Mobilization. The Early Mobilization will allow Japan to build more factories or convert civilian factories for military purposes.
As I ended my poorly-constructed word full of stuters and with a palpable sense of nervousness, I tried to giggle. Giggle nervously. Because I was talking to a very important politician! Who wouldn't get nervous at that...? I let out a very weak "Heh... yeah..." before the other lady, one with significantly darker hair and eyes not nearly as beautiful's as the candidate's. Not long after that, I felt like something or someone was coming at my throat, but nobody was strangling me or anything.
No. It was the voice of the dark hair lady. Her voice sounded angry, anger specifically directed at me, and apparently, Anna did win the election. So that meant i was talking with the Prime Minister... and I looked pathetic in the presence of the Prime Minister herself. Yeah... but what made me feel even more unqueasy was just... the other lady's presence. Did she hate me because I thought Anna lost the election? Because I was rich or any other thing... maybe because I was talking informally to the Prime Minister?
This was a very difficult situation, so I had to come up with something to make it less awkward and have that attempt not backfire spectacularly, like just a few seconds ago. I ignored the sheer venom of the other woman's voice, and I directed my sights right at Anna, smiling. Peacefully. Putting every single inch of my being into not messing up and not blushing even more.
Anna asked my name. Why would she be interested in that? I did my best to not look around the restaurant to see people's reactions; it would make this situation only more awkward. Okay, she asked your name. Don't mess it up!
"My name is..."
A 2-second gap stood in the way of my thoughts and my mouth.
"S-Sophie Pearson..."
"Er what" he said after hearing the room is sound proof.
"Why is the room sound proo..." he was interupted by the documents.
"Huh? Well i dont mind a alliance, economic or militaristic" he whispered to himself. He thought of the kind off threatening stuff Ravi said but yet the offer of a alliance balanced it out.
"Wait was the offer for everyone mabey not" he said to himself again. He waited for his food looking around the room hopefully it will come soon.
Anna couldn't help but continue to look at the woman in question, waiting for her to answer as the seconds became longer. As if they were stuck in a continuous timeloop almost. Anna didn't even notice anyone else was looking over to them as Sophie spoke, Anna nodded.
"Well its very nice to meet you Sophie! Or should I say Madame Pearson? I assume you go to Saint Marks judging by the uniform, a great school!" She continued to seemingly beam positive energy but inside she was in chaos, her mind was frazzled and she was unsure of what to do next. She understood that it might be weird for this woman to talk to the Prime Minister of the country though and decided to let her trouble speaking slide by.
"So what brings you to our table?" Anna said out of curiosity, hoping it wasn't because she was staring at her earlier. Anna at this point was clearly blushing, Amanda shaking her head at the scene while Kingsley couldn't help but smirk. Kingsely then spoke up.
"If you wish to sit down to help collect your thoughts then feel free. Trust me Amanda won't bite."
Amanda looked at him with a glare, Kingsely merely snickering at her reaction. Anna merely facepalmed, unsure of what to say because of the embarrassment she had of the situation. Of course it wasn't because of Sophie, but because her two top advisors seemingly had no clue how to act.
No, it was the documents. She could already tell a few of the delegates were unsure about this, like her. Checks out, Mr. Ravioli over there didn't look that trustworthy. Good at interior design, but at what cost?
Regardless, someone with the capability to make such a room must have a nation that produces *something* of value, so she prepared herself to sign the free trade agreement, at least. Nothing to really shout in joy about. If it was, she'd glad that her security detail couldn't hear her.
As soon as she thought that, she stopped herself. What was the soundproofing for, anyway? A sudden jam session, or insurance that no one would hear their screams?
...she was hoping for a jam session, but just to be certain she made sure she could still contact Taft.
-----
Meanwhile, outside the door or wherever the personal guards are at the moment...
Taft grumbled to himself. "Yeah, right, tag along. Because that's what happened..."
When he came along on this diplomatic trip, he was expecting something a lot more exciting than this. Intense diplomacy! Reverse psychology and outsmarting! Perhaps even a fight!
Not being considered a part of Heidrun's personal guard and escorted out the door. He was no bodyguard, he was an admiral! A charming connoisseur of bullet points and plain old bullets alike!
He started tuning his ukulele in the meantime. Not that he needed to, but it was relaxing, and he felt he needed some relaxation right now. Would be nice if he could at least get a peek at what was going on in that room or a message from Heidrun or-
"Hey, Taft... can you still hear me? I'm starting to get a bit creeped out by this guy, and I want to make sure you'll be able to at least recover the robot if things go wrong."
"Yikes, diplomatic disaster already? Should've sent me instead, ha! ...but yes, I think I could manage that. If push comes to shove, everyone here should have enough strength to push through the door, pardon the play on words."
Nationalist german empire, Ventus Prime, and North italian union
I fell the biggest rock get off my back once the other lady stopped staring at me. The darts - metaphorical, of course - of her eyes that were piercing my chest didn't exist anymore as she just decided to look away. For now... she seemed like the kind of person to be unpredictable, and threatening, too. Just had to keep an eye on her, but for now I think I'm going to be just fine. Hopefully.
That feeling of pleasure wouldn't last for long, and it ended right then and there when Anna, or well... Madame West. Why do I address the Prime Minister herself so irrespectfully? Anyway... yeah. My hearts start racing again, and my tentacle hair turns significantly paler to provide more blood to the other parts of my body. I was essentially in fight-or-flight mode, but there was no one to run away from... just an extraordinarily strong political figure referring to me, just an upper-class New Spiedskan exchange student, as "Madame." She called me "Madame"! Why?! I don't know. I don't have a clue! But she did!
As I ravel in the fact she called me Madame, all that can be seen on the exterior is just confused staring. Hopefully it wasn't staring in the creepy way, just... staring in a "confused" kind of way. I snapped back to reality when she told me her thoughts about which uni I attended based on my jacket. Yeah, she was right. Saint Marks...
I slowly began to fade back into reality. Very strangely, I felt... at ease. The first encounter with her was more chaotic than anything, Amanda's existence scared me, but now that no one else was talking, but her... I felt very secure. It's probably because she's a politician, there's no way I find her voice cute. Not a snowflake's chance in hell... right? I don't even know anymore at this point, man. I don't know!
I followed the other dude's advice and I sat down, looking at the floor with my head being pressed on top of my hands and my tentacles covering a part of my head so my face wasn't seen. I genuinely felt bad, I thought I messed up their entire evening, which brought down the feelings of pleasure and, at some point, bliss, that I was feeling when I heard Madame West's... pre- err... voice.
I felt more calm, but that did little to ease my feelings of guilt.
"Man, I'm sorry... I felt like I ruined the evening. Like, if I was in your position... and a rando showed up only to mumble up barely coherent sentences... yeah, I'd be pissed off at the rando if that happened. Sorry..." I didn't get my head up or look at her out of pure shame.
The third volley was enough to shatter both Imperial V’s Shielding Systems, leaving them vulnerable to attack. Nevertheless their Megamaser Batteries were hard at work, dealing devastating results to the enemy Cruisers. Another line of Assault Concussion Missiles were launched from the Destroyers, this time targeting the dreadnoughts.
The Royal-class Carriers dedicated what little weaponry they had to engage the Corvettes. Also deploying Automated Repair Drones, with Animated Metal Sealant to repair major damages on the Imperial V’s.
With the enemy retreating their Fighter Attacks on the Destroyers, more Imperial Starfighters joined in taking out the enemy Corvettes. The overwhelming numbers, allied support, and help of Schurke Squadron made it a bad day for the enemy Corvettes. Imperial Bombers continued to launch multiple Proton Torpedo Raids against the opposing Dreadnoughts.
Anna couldn't help but blush even harder as she watched Sophie panic as she called her Madame. Quickly apologizing.
"S-Sorry! I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable..."
She went silent for a second, watching as the girl sat down. Anna noticed a seemingly guilt ridden look on her face, feeling bad for her. She merely laughed though as Sophie started going off about how sorry she was.
"Sophie... I made my career off of getting to know each and every person who talked to me. Trust me, you haven't ruined anything."
Her smile became warm as she looked at the woman. She was really pretty, captivatingly so in fact. Though of course Anna remained professional, she didn't need to be forelocking around in a relationship or anything when she had work to attend to.
"Apologies if any of us made this weird or anything." Anna seemed somewhat guilt-ridden herself, though that was her nature. Outside she was sweet and strong but inside she was rather unconfident and always felt out of place. Kingsely looked over to Anna, seeing her face in seeming confusion between feelings of embarrassment and happiness that he couldn't help but snicker a little. He was a smart man, even though he was the recent loser of the last election. He knew what was happening, just not where it was going.
“Admiral...” Halan raised a hand, both acknowledging and silencing the crew member.
“I see now this Imperial Order isn’t all talk. Very well, I want all ships to retreat at once.” Any ships left behind would be a minor loss, at least in Lord Astor’s eyes.
The main ships began to pull back, soon jumping into hyperspace. Any ships that were currently occupied would not have the opportunity before being destroyed, mainly the corvettes and freighters.
The Captain aboard his Kopf Destroyer continued to micromanage the small Fleet on a holographic display. ”Captain, they’re retreating!” one Crewman called out. He let out a sigh of relief, almost sure he’d face defeat against such numbers.
“What’s our losses?” The Captain questioned. He watched as the enemy ships slowly vanished off the hologram.
“Both Imperial Destroyers are holding up, though one's in critical condition...We’ve lost two Raider-class Corvettes, an Emperor-class Cruiser, and 26% of our overall Starfighters.” one crewman reported.
“I don’t know what the Leitandians think they’re up to, but they just started something I don’t think they’re capable of finishing...” the Captain said to himself.
“Captain, High Command wishes to speak to you.” One Comms operator announced.
The Captain made his way over to the proper station and began chatting with High Command. “This is Captain Dash Pellian of Fleet 01S reporting in.”
“Captain Pellian, I am pleased to hear the outcome of your encounter. A possible promotion may be in your near future...Now tell me about these attackers. Is the asset safe?...”
”It was a Leitandi Fleet...The asset is safe aboard my Vessel. If we have no other intrusions, we should arrive within the hour.” the Captain responded.
The “Leitandi Fleet” retreated back into Unknown Space. Personally, Halan wanted a victory, to show just how powerful Leitandi technology truly was, but it had been stressed repeatedly how this was a mere test, and how it would sow chaos between the Ascendancy and Imperial Order, and possibly other factions as well.
“Report,” Astor said via hologram once the ships dropped out of lightspeed.
“My lord, we engaged the Imperial fleet, as directed,” Halan reported. “Unfortunately, while we were able to damage the fleet, their weaponry was almost overwhelming. Ships were lost in the process.”
“Interesting...” Astor said. “Do not concern yourself Admiral, you did well despite the odds. Now the feint has been set into motion.”
“My Lord, as far as we know, that was merely an expedition fleet. Their actual fleets are far greater.”
“If we play our cards right, we won’t have to worry about them,” Astor assured him. “The Ascendancy will have their hands full, but they may put up a good fight. Once both sides are weakened, then we, the Tenkai, shall make our move. And by that time, He will be awakened.”
“Understood my lord,” Halan said. “For the Dark Lord Demise...”
Ariana smiled boldly at the copies, graced with the signatures of the leaders of Scherzinger. One of these copies would certainly go into the National Vault and Archive of the New United Carolinas to document this small yet significant historical moment.
There was no doubt that Ariana faced some criticism with her plans to form an alliance with Scherzinger. Even some members of the Carolinian Conservative Party were reluctant to make ties with yet another monarchy. However, although Ariana and Erwin differed virtually everywhere politically, there must be some bipartisanship when it comes to a peaceful existence.
Ariana, to maintain the same level of respect that Erwin had given her, half bowed at his invitation to the banquet.
"Thank you for your kind gesture. As I'll be here until tomorrow tonight, I'll be more than happy to stay and enjoy." Ariana said. Deep down in her mind, she knew to maintain some level of formality, as it was still a diplomatic mission. She was certain that being herself in this context did not mean kicking back on the couch wearing nothing but sweatpants and a T-shirt, drinking a can of soda while watching cheesy horror movies from Idiocarasia.
Before moving to the next room, Ariana's interest in what life was like in Scherzinger began to overtake her. "Erwin, Momo. Would it be too much to ask for a tour around ShangXiang? It'd be nice to see what the city looks like, the culture, and more." Ariana cautiously requested.
Her mind jumped back to the careful examination that the Scherzingerian citizens outside had seemed to be giving her. They were analyzing her, which made sense in her mind. But she was curious just how different their lives were from the Carolinians. And even deep down in her heart, she was curious about how the leftists in the country were. Not for any malicious intent, of course.
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