ARCHIVED: Crisis in the East

Note: To help understand this role play scenario you can check out the Kaltian map here: https://www.nationstates.net/page=dispatch/id=351918. Summerland is the national capital and also rules Castelli di Summerland (think of the Castelli's as states or provinces). Alacus is the capital of Elham Island whose population is currently rallying around the cause of creating a new Castelli (temporarily named Castelli di Elham by Raiz and Kait, the leaders of the Free Elham organization.

---

Secretary Balin bursts into Premier Nightsong's office, "ma'am, we have a possible crisis on our hands". Premier Nightsong looks up at her secretary and quickly hides her dismay at being interrupted, "Yes Balin, what is is"? "Ma'am, Sefydliad has uncovered a plan by dissidents who are unhappy with the status quo and are demanding change", replies Balin. "Very well, go find me Minister Holbach and Intelligence Director Ramon", replies the Premier before dismissing the Secretary from her office. Leaning back in her chair Solveig quietly mumbles to herself "this is going to be a long night".

Later that evening, Premier Nightsong, Minister Holbach and Intelligence Director Ramon are seated in the War Room discussing the situation.

"... the demands of these so called separatists are outrageous, we already give the people of the Elham Territorium near full autonomy. Creating a new Castelli would upset the balance that has been maintained on the Fields of Siriol for centuries!" screams Minister Holach. "Damien, do calm down… getting upset over this situation will only make things worse", chimes in Premier Nightsong in an attempt to calm her Minister of Defense. "Yes, yes... the only rational thing to do is to send in Oiche na Ruin and covertly wipe out the separatist leadership. Cutting off the head of the snake will cause the rest to scatter", replies Intelligence Director Ramon in an attempt to progress the meeting down a productive path". Solveig turns to the Intelligence Director, "true, we could try that method but we could inflame the people's passion even further and end up with a full blown civil war on our hands. No... it is too risky. Our current option is to reassign the Sefydliad agents on the islands to do recon and report back the situation. Send in Oiche na Ruin to help with the recon but do not act further without my go ahead". "Yes ma'am", reply Ramon and Damien before leaving the meeting.

While the meeting is taking place in Summerland, a rally is taking place in Alacus lead by Razi, head of the Free Elham [opponents of Elham staying under the jurisdiction of Castelli di Summerland and creating their own new Castelli] organization. A large crowd of thousands have turned up in force and being goaded along by Razi are chanting the following: "Free the people of Elham! Governance by locals!" In the midst of this crowd stands one man and one women who are not chanting along but are looking for Kait, Razi's second in command. They are a husband and wife (Dyzir and Ranii) command unit of Oiche na Ruin and are attempting to put forward a compromise to hopefully end the situation without further escalation and bloodshed. Very soon, the two find themselves a few feet away from Kait. However before either is able to act, chaos and pandemonium strike. A large gathering of members from the 'Together as One' [supporters of Elham staying under the jurisdiction of Castelli di Summerland] organization have charged in and clashed with the Free Elham protesters. As the two sides clash, Kait and Razi manage to flee while Dyzir and Ranii fall back to report a mission failure to Premier Nightsong as well as update her on the escalation of hostilities.

After the meeting with the Intelligence Director and Minister of Defense, Premier Nightsong is heading back to her office. On the way, her phone rings... picking it up she replies in a tired tone, "hello... ah good to hear from you Ranii, please tell me everything is going well over in the Elham Territorium". Ranii replies, "no ma'am... we were close to Kait but everything has gone down the drain since members of 'Together as One' decided to crash the party". Premier Nightsong pauses to digest this new information, "well... there goes the neighborhood. I’m putting OnR [Oiche na Ruin] X on high alert and putting you and your husband in charge. You have full security and military clearance and immunity". After hanging up the phone, Ranii updates her husband on the situation and the two head to their safe house as the Kaltian police rush in to break up the protesters.

Premier Nightsong finally makes it back to her office where she immediately calls Vice-Premier Stark... "Anthony, we have a protest that is quickly spiraling out of control in Alacus. The situation could inflame the hearts and minds of the citizens of the other cities of Elham Island. Send out an alert to our allies in the region that any and all humanitarian aid will be appreciated to help deal with refugees and injured".

OOC: Syrixia, I wrote a lot of this when I was running on about two hours of sleep. One little detail that will play a major role in how this plays out is the Free Elham campaign wanting to overthrow the Houses which govern the status quo of the religious sites (and have done so since the last major war between Castelli's). My nation is not opposed to the creation of a new Castelli (we are for it)... we are however against some of their methods and demands. Also, do remember that there are two other younger territorium's in Kalti (Akkar and Olira) both of whom are content with the status quo of having self governance on their respective island but still answering to Castelli di Summerland.

The Alacus government, on behalf of the people of Elham, has called for peace and calm as the police clear the streets of the protestors.

Much later that night Representative Richye has phoned Premier Nightsong, "the Kaltian police were able to break up both groups of protestors. However, Razi and Kait have fled north to Lieza... What are our current options in dealing with them?" Premier Nightsong replies, "Oiche na Ruin X has been deployed to Alacus and is being headed by Dyzir and Ranii. Sefydliad agents in the south have been reporting back on reconnaissance and so far they have held back the Free Elham organization so Tizela and Vrenzo are still securley in your government's hands." Richye takes a moment to digest this news, "and what of the separatists demands to create a new Castelli and bring down the Houses and their control of the Fields?" Premier Nightsong responds, "as you already know, the Kaltian Estate [the national government] is not opposed to creating a new Castelli yet we cannot put forward out support for a new House... it would cause a full on civil war on Acquaviva Island. However..." The phone call is paused as Katerine Sladek, Majority Assembly Speaker for the Kaltian State Assembly is ushered into the Premier's office. Katerine takes the phone, "one thing we can do as a stopgap measure is an emergency bill to recognize Castelli di Elham with Alacus as it's capital and Tizela and Vrenzo under its jurisdiction." Representative Richye considers this for a moment, "what about the northern cities of Galeva, Ruzine, Morianske and Lieza? I cannot in good faith leave them out in the cold on this measure." Katerine quickly replies, "we have no choice, after the Free Elham organization was routed by the Kaltian police in Alacus, Razi and Kait are going to establish a much stronger foothold in the north where our Castelli has much less influence. You might be able to sway some of the citizenry to your side but it will be an uphill battle." Representative Richye takes a moment, "very well, call an emergency State Assembly meeting and push that makeshift measure through. I will try to sway the northern cities but they are very religious and will be tempted at the prospect of being able to create a new House."

As the phone call ends, Premier Nightsong sighs and looks at her Assembly Speaker, "well... you heard the Representative... damn the late hour but call an emergency meeting of the State Assembly." As Katerine leaves, Vice-Premier Stark walks into the office, suit ruffled and hair unkempt. "Anthony, you look like hell..." states Solveig. "Yes, well... I've been busy coordinating relief efforts for any refugees that flee the crisis. Currently Shaw Atlas of Syrixia has pledged support. What about you? What have you done about all this", replies the Vice-Premier. Solveig replies, "an emergency State Assembly meeting has been called to recognize Castelli di Elham with Alacus as its capital and Tizela and Vrenzo under its jurisdiction. I didn't tell Representative Richye but OnR X has been dispatched north to Lieza to apprehend Razi and Kait as well as sending additional units of Sefydliad to Galeva, Ruzine, and Morianske to sway the people to back the official recognition of the Castelli and to drop their demands for a new House." Anthony looks off out the window at the night skyline of Summerland, "will that work? Will the people of Elham accept their own Castelli without the creation of a House with jurisdiction over a religious site?" "It better damn well work otherwise we will have a full scale civil war on our hands between the current standing houses and those loyal to Razi and his Free Elham organization", replies Solveig.

---

In the early hours of the morning, the following two broadcasts were made to the citizens of Lieza, Galeva, Ruzine and Morianske:

From Representative Richye, governor of the Elham Territorium...

Friends, Kaltians, countrymen, lend me your ears!

I have just gotten off the phone with Premier Solveig Nightsong and Majority Assembly Speaker Katerine Sladek.
The Kaltian State Assembly is voting to officially recognize Castelli di Elham with Alacus as its capital!
Yes, I know the Free Elham organization is promising the creation of a new religious house.
But ask yourself this, do you want to be responsible for tearing down centuries of tradition?
Do you want to ignite a civil war over the holy sites that are open to all Kaltians?
Ask yourself what your children and grand-children will think of you.
Live up to a higher moral standard. Take this chance at freedom.
Join the soon to be formed Castelli di Elham and become more than a territorium.
Carpe diem and may the God and Goddess be with you all.

Click to expand...

From Razi, leader of the Free Elham organization...

Do not listen to their lies! The Kaltian Estate is only willing to meet us halfway.
And where are the Houses on this matter? SILENT! Silent I tell you!
They are scared, they don't want to deal with the prospect of a new House being created that will upset the status quo.
But do not fear! So long as we do not give in, there is still a fighting chance of creating not only a new Castelli but a new House.

Click to expand...

Following this broadcast, the only reported incidents (as given by the Sefydliad agents who had arrived shortly before the broadcasts) were in the cities of Lieza and Galeva where national government buildings were ransacked and set on fire.

In the city of Ruzine, no major incidents were reported by the news but two camps had popped up... one supporting Representative Richye and the other supporting Razi. For now, both were chanting their slogans peacefully and no injuries or riots had cropped up.

In the city of Morianske, relative peace and calm ruled as the sun rose and the population, in a popular referendum held in the cities central square decided to throw their support behind Representative Richye and his soon to be created Castelli di Elham.

Back in the national capital, Majority Assembly Speaker Katerine Sladek had called an emergency session of the Kaltian State Assembly who were now discussing the prospect of creating a new Castelli. As of the sun rising, the majority of State Assembly Representatives had thrown in their support for the creation of Castelli di Elham but they were not yet there with a two thirds majority.

(OOC: this corresponds with the post I just made about a couple minutes ago on the Eknorve Civil War thread.)

Nursson hang up the phone, knowing the Deputy Prime Minister would take care of the request he had given him.

He zipped all the way down through his contacts, found Shaw Atlas, and hit the "call" button.

"Hello? Hello, sir!...yes, we've sent election moderators down there...yes, sir...See, sir, the government of Kalti actually supports the creation of Castelli Di Elham, but the people of Elham are acting more like terrorists than separatists."

"This is bad. Ask the Kaltians if we can call in the navy. Our water cannons and intimidating ships will put out fires and scare off the separatists while the Kaltian State Assembly votes."

"Yes, sir."

OOC: Some context... Sefydliad is one of the three pillars of the Kaltian Intelligence Community alongside Celeste and Garda. Oiche na Ruin is a Special Forces unit that consists of agents from all three intelligence branches as well as some members from the Kaltian Defense Forces. Oiche na Ruin operates in complete secrecy and usually behind the cover of another Kaltian agency, in this case Sefydliad.

Late morning, Razi is sitting in the burnt out remains of the Lieza Police Station. With him is his lover and second in command, Kait. "Bah! How insulting... The Kaltian Estate goes ahead and proposes the creation of a new Castelli and the people of the southern cities just roll over and accept it. At least the northern cities have more backbone in holding out and demanding a change to the antiqued system of the supposedly great Noble Houses." Kait leans back against the wall and looks at Razi, "well, three of the four... the citizens of Morianske have rallied behind a popular referendum to support the creation of the Castelli. They are getting backing and support supposedly from Sefydliad." Razi looks at her in surprise, "did you say Sefydliad? Well this is just wonderful, if my little organization succeeds in embarrassing the Sefydliad the Estate will have no choice but to then acknowledge my demands and allow the creation of a House for the citizens of Elham."

Back in Castelli di Summerland, Premier Nightsong and Vice-Premier Stark have managed to catch a few hours of shut eye before boarding the ferry at Summerland Port to Ardal Tri. Upon arriving they are greeting by Intelligence Director Ramon and taken to Colgador de Ruina, home base of Oiche na Ruin. Once inside they are quickly ushered into Control Room X which is overseeing the operation being led by Dyzir and Ranii. I.D. [Intelligence Director] Ramon addresses both the Premier and Vice-Premier, "as you can see, the situation across Elham Island is in flux. The government in Alacus has full control of Alacus, Tizela and Vrenzo. Earlier this morning the population of Morianske voted in a popular referendum to back the creation of a new Castelli. Ruzine is hit and miss... the situation is sitting on a knife's edge and could deteriorate at any moment. I have dispatched OnR X to the city to sway the population towards supporting Alacus. I also dispatched two contingents of Sefydliad agents to Lieza and Galeva for deep cover reconnaissance and to see if we can locate Razi and Kait." Vice-Premier Stark chimes in, "and what of refugees? Shaw Atlas from Syrixia called. He's offering water cannons and ships to help put out fires and scare off the separatists. I need to reply back soon." Premier Nightsong looks at Stark and replies, "you have my go ahead on it. We have refugees fleeing from Lieza and Galeva, have the Syrixians send their ships there to help bolster the faltering Kaltian police force..." Before Premier Nightsong can continue her phone rings, looking at the caller ID it is Majority Assembly Speaker Katerine Sladek.
PM Nightsong: "Hello Katerine, how goes the State Assembly vote for the creation of a Castelli?"
MAS Sladek: "Grueling, we came close to a two thirds majority but the Representatives from Acquaviva will not throw their support behind the measure without a 100% guarantee that there is no threat to the Noble Houses."
PM Nightsong: "So we need Razi and Kait... That's going to be complicated. The situation on Elham is descending into anarchy in the north."
MAS Sladek: "What do you want me to do with the State Assembly then?"
PM Nightsong: "Let them have a break and reconvene tonight. Hopefully either Sefydliad or Oiche na Ruin can pull through."

Syrixia was renowned for its navy. Admiral Henry Tiberio knew that. "Yes. Send the ships, Vice-Premier Stark contacted us." said the Admiral. "Okay, sir." said a sailor, who ran off to tell the others Tiberio's orders: assemble a naval taskforce and set sail for Elham Island.

This naval taskforce, one of around 8 armored frigates, sailed into Alacus around an hour after it was sent. It was led by a Captain by the name of Aqoz Gundersen. Gundersen ordered a sailor to scout Alacus. "What do you see?" he said to the sailor.

"Fire, sir...something tells me they don't want the creation of a new Castelli alone. They're setting buildings on fire and doing terrible things, sir." the sailor said. "Well then, methinks the Kaltian police needs some assistance." said Captain Gundersen.

"Here's what we'll do: We're gonna prime the water cannons, and send in some 'landers' to help the Kaltians inside the city. Meanwhile, our ships will sail around Alacus putting out fires and scaring off anyone who dares start another one." said the Captain. (OOC: 'Landers' are navy soldiers who are trained for D-Day style landing missions.)

As it seemed, the operation was now beginning, however it was all along merely a distraction, only intended to distract the separatists so there was no risk they would attack anywhere else. This was because scores of Syrixian diplomats were en route to Summerland.

Hopefully with Syrixian aid to the Kaltian police, the separatists would be willing to begin peace talks...

OOC: Just a correction Syrixia... Alacus, the capital of Elham, is firmly under the control of the city government through the support of Sefydliad and Oiche na Ruin. Lieza and Galeva are the cities that need help and overrun by separatists.

OOC: Oh ok. Pretend I said the correct cities.

(Location: Ardal Tri)
Sinsearach Verstand Asiant [Senior Intelligence Officer] Andrew Lizera knocks on the door where the Premier and Vice-Premier are discussing the Elham situation. The Premier responds, "come in". SVA Lizera enters, "sir, ma'am... the Syrixians have arrived in Lieza and Galeva with a naval taskforce of eight armored frigates to help put out fires and bring humanitarian aid to refugees caught in the crossfire". Vice-Premier Stark looks at the SVA, "I feel you aren't telling us something... well go on, tell us..." SVA Lizera looks at the Premier and Vice-Premier nervously, "well... the Syrixians... they almost screwed up...". Premier Nightsong controls herself and in an even tone asks, "what did the Syrixians do?" SVA Lizera, even more nervous than before, "ma'am... they almost sailed into Alacus where they could have got tangled up with Oiche na Ruin X". Vice-Premier Stark looks aghast at the SVA, "oh for the love of the Goddess... that would have been an international disaster. OnR X is operating with complete military and security immunity and secrecy, any act against them (be it help or harm) without Ardal Tri and our [the Premier and Vice-Premier] authorization would have lead to fighting and causalities on both sides." Premier Nightsong directs the next question back to SVA Lizera, "did we manage to get word to the Syrixians to turn north and head for Lieza and Galeva?" The SVA responds, "yes we did." Premier Nightsong looks at the Vice-Premier and the SVA, "well then... we have nothing to worry about with international incidents starting. Thank you for the update. Go report to Intelligence Director Ramon and let him know the status of the Syrixians and who among them he can contact. Anthony and I have important matters to discuss in resolving this situation."

The Syrixian ships pulled into Galeva, and then split into two task forces, one heading to Lieza. Humanitarian aid was at the ready and in action, and the fires were being put out.

(OOC: Yeah. That's all I can think up right now. We need some more story progression from the OP, plox? :3)

Syrixia:

The Syrixian ships pulled into Galeva, and then split into two task forces, one heading to Lieza. Humanitarian aid was at the ready and in action, and the fires were being put out.

(OOC: Yeah. That's all I can think up right now. We need some more story progression from the OP, plox? :3)

Click to expand...

OOC: Been busy with some very inappropriate Latin American poems the past few days for school. I'll add more details today.

Dyziir and Ranii, the husband and wife commanding team of Oiche na Ruin have arrived in Lieza with ten Oiche na Ruin operatives. They had sent ahead five other operatives to Galeva and left five behind in Alacus as extra protection of the island government. They were on the hunt for Razi and Kait and with a confirmed sighting from Sefydliad, they were now on Marshall Boulevard heading towards the remains of the Lieza Police States. Since it was nighttime, all twelve operatives were wearing night vision goggles as well as full body armor... Inside the police station, they could see two people upstairs on the second floor with about twenty guards down on the first floor. The OnR team spread out... Dyziir would take five operatives through the front while Ranii would take the other five operatives through the back. As soon as both were in position, smoke and stun grenades were thrown in swiftly followed by the OnR team. Within minutes, all twenty separatist bodyguards were apprehended with a few minor injuries to the OnR operatives. [Note: Oiche na Ruin is under orders to take the separatists alive and minimize casualties as much as possible] The commotion downstairs was enough to wake Razi and Kait who quickly threw together a few items, grabbed their weapons and started to flee the building. They would have both gotten away without being spotted if it was not for one OnR operative who had gone outside to relieve himself in the bushes when he noticed two people climbing down the fire escape ladder. He shouted for both to stop yet they quickly descended the ladder and took off running. The OnR operative, not waiting for the rest of his unit dropped to one knee and took aim with his gun. He managed to hit Kait in the leg and she went down tumbling...

"ugh... RAZI! Help! Don't leave me behind...", screamed Kait as she was hit from behind.

"Sorry love, whoever they are... they were sent by the Kaltian Estate. I will not let them catch us both...", yelled back Razi before fleeing further into the dark.

The OnR operative is finally surrounded by Dyziir and Ranii who quickly run up to Kait and take her into custody. Dyziir looks at his wife, "well, at least we got one of the two separatist leaders. Too bad that Razi got away." Turning to the OnR operative, "good shot and quick thinking on that, we could have lost both of them and then we up a creek without a paddle".

Next day, early morning... Razi has been running/hitchhiking the whole night and has finally reached Galeva. Thinking to himself, "well damn... I have no idea who those guys were but they were definitely not Sefydliad... Sad that they got Kait but I couldn't go back for her and risk both of us being captured... She's a good girl, she won't break under torture or whatever that mysterious group has planned for her..."

As he is walking along the Galeva pier, he notices that Syrixians have been called in to help put out fires. He quickly turns away and starts walking the other direction. Sadly luck was not on his side, one of the Syrixians noticed him and called out to his commanding officer...

"SHOSS! QALHA NESSEN!" yelled a soldier. He spoke Syrixian in order to make sure no enemy understood incase they were afoot. but it was easy for Razi to tell that he had been caught. Within seconds, around 15 Syrixian soldiers had completely surrounded Razi, their guns aimed at his head. 15 red spots were on Razi's head from the gun scopes.

"Bring him into the SSV Zielodo. Put him in prison and bring the Kaltians here." said Captain Gundersen. The soldiers did as they were told, and threw Razi in a cold, dark, dirty and wet prison cell at the bottom of the ship, on the prison floor. Gundersen then picked up his iPhone and called Premier Nightsong herself. "Premier Nightsong. This is Captain Aqoz Gundersen, Syrixian Navy. We have Razi in our custody."

Back at Ardal Tri, Solveig [Premier] and Anthony [Vice-Premier] had just gotten up to go get coffee. As soon as they were out of the conference room, their phones rang. They looked at each other and walked to separate corners to answer the phone.

Vice-Premier Stark's Call...
"Hello?"

"Sir, this is Ranii. I'm here with OnR X in Lieza, the twenty bodyguards of Razi and Kait have been neutralized."

"And what of Razi and Kait? You know it is of vital importance that we bring them in."

"One of our operatives, well... he had gone outside to relieve himself. He got super lucky and spotted Razi and Kait trying to flee the premise. Kait was hit in the back and knocked to the ground but Razi got away."

"Well, that's one of two down. Hand Kait off to the Sefydliad agents in Lieza and have them bring her back to the Kaltian State Assembly Building."

"Sir... is that wise? She is part of an organization that is trying to bring down the Noble Houses?"

"Yes, I'm quite sure. Now go, time is of the essence. As for your updated mission, I'll relay this information to Intelligence Director Ramon who will get back to you and your husband on what to do. For now, sit tight in Lieza and watch over our misbehaving separatist bodyguards."

"Yes sir."

- Call ends

Premier Nightsong's Call...
"Hello?"

"Pre... is... Sy..." [static breakup due to the call not coming from an encrypted Kaltian phone]

"Sorry, who is this?"

"Premier Nightsong... this is Captain Aqoz Gundersen of the SSV Zielodo of the Syrixian Navy. We have Razi in our custody."

"What? How...?"

"Ma'am, we caught him walking along the pier in Galeva."

"Galeva, but that's impossible. All of our intelligence says he was with Kait in Lieza."

"He's here with us now, you can find out the truth yourself. Where would you like him brought in?"

"Bring him to the Kaltian State Assembly Building in Summerland. Use broadcast code 'IR-39' [IR = international relief] so the Kaltian Naval Patrol around Summerland doesn't shoot you out of the water."

"Right away ma'am."

"Oh, and do treat him well. Feed him well and keep him clothed, I want him presentable and respectable when he arrives in the capital. Also, you shall be reimbursed for any extra cost that puts on your ship."

"Yes ma'am. We will see you in Summerland soon."

- Phone call ends

"Feed him well? Keep him clothed? And yet he's in the maximum security cell?" said Lieutenant Chuda Hohensten, second in command of the SSV Zielodo, to Captain Gundersen.

"Yes. He is to be presented in top shape to the Kaltian State Assembly at Summerland." said the Captain. "Keep Razi in his cell so he doesn't escape but bring him some good clothes and a nice dinner."

"Yes, sir. We should be in Summerland in ten minutes, sir." said the Lieutenant.

Meanwhile at the Kaltian State Assembly, High Priest Geoffrey and High Priestess Audreyn have been summoned by Majority Assembly Speaker Katerine Sladek. Each takes a turn addressing the Kaltian State Assembly. With Razi and Kait in custody, the State Assembly has decided to recognize all three islands as new Castelli to keep the status quo and avoid another civil unrest outbreak from occurring.

HP Audreyn: "To all citizens of the Kaltian Republic I call upon you now to listen with an open mind and an open heart. As you have heard, there has been significant unrest on Elham Island caused by the Free Elham organization. They all calling for the creation of a new Castelli. To reiterate the stance of the entire Kaltian Estate: they do not mind the creation of a new Castelli... it means more individual freedom for the people and less direct governmental control. However, I have been summoned here today to speak not on the Castelli issue but on the challenge put forward by Razi to challenge the Houses and his attempt to overthrow three thousand years of tradition. The Noble Houses of Ruach Tov, Dar il-Sliem, Drom Aluinn, Eryri and Angeliki were formed by the five great founders of the Kaltian Republic to uphold the ideals of the national religion and to maintain the status quo on the Fields of Siriol by allowing free access to all of the holy sites to all Kaltian citizens. If we destroy the Houses we lost the moral compass that they embody as well as a central figure in the nation's faith and morality."

HP Geoffrey: "As High Priest of House Ruach Tov and one of two custodians [alongside High Priestess Audreyn] of the Temple of the Blessed, the Sol Altar and the Luna Altar, I cannot let this challenge stand. Prior to coming here this afternoon I have been in close consultation with the other House's and their respective High Priests and High Priestesses. Together we have decided to let the people of Akkar, Elham and Olira Island have their voices heard in letting them choose which House they wish to follow. Both High Priestess Audreyn and myself have decided to not include House Ruach Tov and keep it exclusive to Castelli di Summerland to maintain neutrality in being the central House and voice of reason on contentious religious matters. This vote shall commence alongside the passing of the State Assembly resolution to recognize the Akkar Territorium, the Elham Territorium and the Olira Territorium as three new Castelli's. Due to the sensitive nature of the ideological split between the northern and southern cities of the Elham Territorium, the Kaltian State Assembly is prepared to split the Elham Territorium into two separate Castelli's."

After the High Priest and High Priestess are done giving their speeches, they turn the central podium over to Majority Assembly Speaker Katerine Sladek.

MAS Katerine Sladek: "Earlier this morning word reached me that Oiche na Ruin has captured Kait while a Syrixian Naval Patrol boat managed to catch Razi. With both in custody, I feel we can now pass the resolution to recognize the Akkar Territorium, the Elham Territorium and the Olira Territorium as three new Castelli's.

All in favor say 'aye'!"

238 voices are recorded as responding with 'aye'.

MAS Katerine Sladek: "All not in favor say 'nay'!"

12 voices are recorded as responding with 'aye'.

MAS Katerine Sladek: "The measure to recognize the Akkar Territorium, the Elham Territorium and the Olira Territorium as Castelli's has passed with 238 votes in favor and 12 votes against. At this time, the four areas shall be called Castelli di Akkar, Castelli di Elham A, Castelli di Elham B and Castelli di Olira. In conjunction with the Noble House's vote, a vote shall be put forward to the citizens of all the cities on these islands allowing them free choice in what they wish their new Castelli to be called as well as which House they wish to identify with. Should the northern and southern cities of Elham come to an agreement, the two Elham Castelli shall be merged into one but for now we shall keep them separate."

As the Kaltian State Assembly is dispersed for a break, Minority Assembly Speaker Raphael Helsing stays back to talk with Majority Assembly Speaker Katerine Sladek.

MAS Raphael Helsing: "And what of Razi and Kait. They still need to be brought to justice!"

MAS Katerine Sladek: "I have been in touch with Premier Nightsong and Vice-Premier Stark. Dyziir and Ranii are bringing Kait here to the State Assembly and Captain Aqoz Gundersen of the Syrixian Navy are bringing Razi. Both shall be dealt with in accordance of Kaltian Law. Now go on, enjoy the break."

OOC: @Syrixia, the Kaltians are a moral and just people. Just because a citizen has committed treason or terrorism against the State does not mean they shall be unduly harmed. Everyone is given a fair trial after which the appropriate punishment shall be ruled on and given out. I am still in the process of writing the trial but it will be forthcoming in the next day or so.

At last, the Syrixian naval fleet dispatched to Kalti, led by the SSV Zielodo, made it to Summerland. The Captain stepped onto the Kaltian pier, along with the Lieutenant, and made their way, along with 10 armed guards and a captured but well-fed Razi, who was wearing a nice suit, to the Kaltian State Assembly Building.

Gundersen walked in and talked to the secretary at the door. "Hello. I'm Captain Aqoz Gundersen, Syrixian Navy. This is Lieutenant Chuda Hohensten. Don't mind the guards, security protocol to ensure Razi doesn't escape. If he tries, he'll be stunned. Anyways, I'm sure you know about the situation in Elham Island. It's all over the news. As you can see, we have Razi here for you. Do you know where we should bring him? Or possibly is there someone you can call down here to answer that, and/or take a look at Razi?"

Secretary Cai looks up at the Syrixians and quickly grabs an envelope that he hands to the Captain...
"That should cover any expenses incurred by your ship in taking care of Razi. Anyways, if you give me a minute I'll call Premier Nightsong. She just arrived with the Oiche na Ruin team and Kait."

Secretary Cai grabs the phone at his desk and dials a secure line to the Premier.
"Ma'am, the Syrixians are here, they have Razi with them."

"Good, I'm sending down Ranii and a few OnR operatives to take Razi into custody."

"And what of the Syrixians?"

"Tell them that they are free to stay and watch the proceedings or stay at the Glan y Mor Hotel down by the pier. Expenses will be covered by us either way."

After hanging up the phone, Premier Nightsong's message is relayed to the Syrixians.

As Secretary Cai is talking with the Syrixians, Ranii and five of her OnR X operatives arrive in the lobby of the Kaltian State Assembly [all are dressed in suits or dresses to blend in with the crowd].

"Good day Captain Gundersen, Lieutenant Hohensten. I'll be taking Razi into custody. We are currently holding Kait upstairs in one of the committee rooms. Razi will be kept in the one next door until the State Assembly is back from break and ready to commence the trial.

Since it looks like Secretary Cai has already let you know of the Premier's instructions I'll take my leave."

As Ranii takes Razi and turns to leave, Lieutenant Hohensten asks one last question...
"Ranii... we were given orders to keep him well fed and clothed. Why?"

"He may have caused significant damage but due to the actions of Sefydliad no one was killed, we only had some injuries from the protesters scuffling. And besides... he is still a citizen of Kalti, we treat all prisoners with the utmost care and dignity up until their trial. After that, well..."

Before finishing her train of though, Ranii turns and heads upstairs with Razii and her operatives.

Gundersen turns to Secretary Cai. "We'll be staying here to watch the processions." he said firmly. "Where should we go to do so?"

Downstairs, Secretary Cai and Captain Gundersen are talking...
"Very well. The hearing shall take place upstairs in Estate Multius Room A. Take the stairs on your left and go up to the second floor, the room will be on your right. Since the hearing will not start for another thirty minutes, might I interest you all with some refreshments?"

Upstairs on the third floor, Premier Nightsong, Vice-Premier Stark, Majority Assembly Speaker Sladek, Minority Assembly Speaker Helsing, High Priest Geoffrey, High Priestess Audreyn, Chief Justice Sermeka, Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus Daziir and Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus Ranii are gathered. Chief Justice Sermeka is speaking...
"Now, this is an unusual breach of protocol since Razi and Kait should be heard and tried at the Kaltian Supreme Court but due to the unique circumstances of the Castelli and House bills that were just passed by the Assembly, I have compromised with Premier Nightsong in holding the trial here in the State Assembly Building. Normally the punishment for treason against the state is a death sentence through the use of lethal injection. However, Kait was only an indirect instigator in the protests and Razi's girlfriend; Razi on the other hand, was the main instigator of the protests against the Kaltian State. Both shall be tried accordingly but due to no civilian deaths thanks to the efforts of Sefydliad, one must keep in mind that leniency is a possibility in the final sentence."

Meanwhile on the second floor, Razi and Kait are in Majority Assembly Speaker Sladek's office under heavy guard by the operatives of Oiche na Ruin X...
[Kait has broken down in tears]... "Razi! You know what they will do to us. The punishment for terrorism and treason against the state is death..."
"I'm so sorry dear... I never thought the Kaltian Estate would authorize the use of these guys [pointing at the operatives]..."
"Well they did and now we are going to our deaths... I'm still young and had so much to live for."
"I know, so did I... so did I."

One of the OnR X operatives walks up to Razi and Kait...
"Is there anything we can get for you before the trial begins?"
Razi remains silent...
Kait remains silent but continues to cry...

The Guards leave for the SSV Zielodo to do a training exercise.

Meanwhile, Gundersen responds, "Yes, that would be lovely. Do you have Syrixian Qol'Zun?r-Vakht? I often drink that, and so do Lieutenant Hohensten. If you do, I'd like the Pakköl brand."

"I'd like the Q? brand, please." says Hohensten.

(OOC: I believe, since you're in the GNPTA, you got a shipment recently of Qol'Zun?r-Vakht, one of Syrixia's most popular beverages. It's non-alcoholic and tastes/looks like a vanilla milkshake, though it is made from a mixture of native Syrixian berries. Anyways, due to this you probably have some lying around. I hope at least, lel.)

Secretary Cai looks at the Captain and Lieutenant...
"Sirs... you are standing in the Kaltian State Assembly. We only carry local drinks at the cafeteria here. However, I can send one of our couriers off to grab you your drinks from a nearby supermarket. While you wait, I'd recommend heading upstairs to Estate Multius Room A since the hearing will begin soon. I'll have the drinks brought up for both of you when they arrive."

Meanwhile in Estate Multius Room A, the following people have gathered:
[Prosecutors]
- Premier Nightsong and Vice-Premier Stark of the Kaltian Cabinet
- High Priest Geoffrey and High Priestess Audreyn of House Ruach Tov

[Defendants]
- Razi and Kait of the former Free Elham organization

[Judge]
- Chief Justice Sermeka of the Kaltian Supreme Court

[Guests]
- Majority Assembly Speaker Sladek and Minority Assembly Speaker Helsing
- Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus Daziir and Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus Ranii
- Captain Gundersen and Lieutenant Hohensten of Syrixia
- 160 citizens of Elham

Right before the proceedings begin, a courier walks in with two Qol'Zun?r-Vakht drinks, one of the Pakköl brand and the other of the Q? brand. They are handed to Captain Gundersen and Lieutenant Hohensten of Syrixia. Afterwards the courier quietly slips out of the room.

Chief Justice Sermeka begins, "Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen of the Kaltian Republic. I would also like to welcome Captain Gundersen and Lieutenant Hohensten of Syrixia who were responsible for the apprehension of Razi, the leader of the former Free Elham organization. As you are all aware we are gathered here today to try Razi and Kait for their crimes against the state. Premier Nightsong, if you would be so inclined?"

Premier Nightsong: "Of course. Just a few hours earlier today, Majority Assembly Speaker Sladek and Minority Assembly Speaker Helsing oversaw the passage of a new bill recognizing Castelli di Akkar, Castelli di Elham A, Castelli di Elham B and Castelli di Olira. Along with that recognition comes a vote authorized by the Houses to allow the citizens of each new Castelli to vote via a majority for a House to represent them. Razi here tried to challenge those very same Noble Houses and either overthrow them or subvert their authority. However, due to the hard work and coordination of Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus Daziir and Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus Ranii, a husband and wife command unit of Oiche na Ruin along with the intervention of Sefydliad, no civilians were killed and the only losses incurred were monetary in terms of buildings being set on fire or ransacked. I move to strip Razi and Kait of all land and possessions on Elham Island along with them being barred from the island for the remainder of their lives."

Chief Justice Sermeka: "Thank you Premier. High Priest Geoffrey and High Priestess Audreyn, would either of you like to speak?"

High Priestess Audreyn: "Yes I would. As High Priestesses of House Ruach Tov we do not adhere to a personification of the God and Goddess but instead stay with the traditional view of a Horned God and a Triple Goddess. Both High Priest Geoffrey and myself have been in meditation and prayer to the God and Goddess the past few nights on how to approach and handle this matter. Both of us move to back the Premier in her decision but wish to recommend a jail sentence at the Dorchadas Maximum Security Prison on Ardal Tri."

Chief Justice Sermeka: "Thank you High Priestess. Would either Captain Gundersen or Lieutenant Hohensten wish to speak?"

"Understood, Secretary. Take your time with the drinks, though, I bet we'll be invited to speak in court today due to our role in Razi's apprehension. No bragging intended, of course." said Captain Gundersen. The two officers then bid Secretary Cai farewell and headed up to the trial room. Sure enough, Gundersen was right. They were invited to speak; and speak they did, after quietly thanking the courier and handing him a 2-Lira tip, of course, as they had stopped at the bank to exchange some currency before entering the State Assembly building. Syrixia valued etiquette and this was no exception, especially for key military officials.

"Both of us would like to speak." said Gundersen. "Syrixia supports your measures to strip Razi and Kait of their possessions on Elham and barring them from entering the island, but I would like to point out two things." As Gundersen spoke, Hohensten began to take quiet sips from his drink, being sure no one noticed. "Firstly, while Razi and Kait's methods were...not exactly peaceful, they did raise this issue to crisis level and in turn played a key role in bringing the issue to the Kaltian State Assembly, and therefore helping to create Castelli Di Elham A and B, along with Castelli Di Akkar and Castelli Di Olira."

Lieutenant Hohensten chimed in, "Thus, with that and the fact that they're still citizens of Kalti in mind, we should at least give them a small ounce of leniency. Perhaps helping them to find a new home would suffice?" Hohensten noticed out of the corner of his eye that now Gundersen was sipping his drink in the same way he did, and he felt good; for he could not hear the sipping sound nor did he look directly at Gundersen. He then continued speaking before his gap in speech was noticeable. "Though too much leniency may be bad; we recommend you monitor all their activity through the use of hidden surveillance cameras installed in whatever place necessary. Syrixia can help with that; we could make a camera that could fit in the tiniest of places, perhaps even inside a phone or the canvas of a picture."

Chief Justice Sermeka: "Thank you for the advice in leniency. You must keep in mind that what the Premier was suggesting was that Razi and Kait have would be stripped of all land and possessions on Elham Island along with them being barred from the island for the remainder of their lives. She did not imply that they would be barred from Serravalle, Acquaviva, Akkar or Olira island. If there is no one else that wishes to speak, then I move this trial forward to a consultation between myself, Premier Nightsong, Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus Daziir and Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus Ranii. Everyone else may take a ten minute break to use the restrooms or grab a drink or snack at the cafeteria downstairs."

As everyone shuffles out of the room to grab refreshments or use the bathroom, three people stay behind to discuss options with the Chief Justice.
Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus Daziir: "I am in total agreement with both the Premier and the High Priestess."
Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus Ranii: "I agree with my husband but if we take the advice of the High Priestess then do we give equal jail time to Razi and Kait or do we do separate sentences?"
Premier Nightsong: "That is a fair point. Kait, while being one of the main people behind Free Elham, was in all fairness an accomplice to her lover, Razi. I say we show her some slight leniency in her jail sentence while still bearing the full brunt of being stripped of all and possessions. Razi on the other hand, we shall give the maximum jail sentence that Kaltian law entails without going into the realm of life in prison."
Chief Justice Sermeka: "So then we are all in agreement? Razi and Kait shall be stripped of land and possession and barred from Elham Island along with separate jail sentences for each at the Dorchadas Maximum Security Prison?"
Premier Nightsong: "Aye."
Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus Daziir: "Aye."
Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus Ranii: "Aye."

(OOC: I wasn't implying they'd be barred from Kalti. I was implying they'd be barred from Elham, I was saying you should find them a new home IN KALTI (but not in Elham) and monitor their activity. Still, an awesome trial.)

(Also OOC: We should conduct an "interview" of Captain Gundersen and Lieutenant Hohensten possibly in this thread or over PM, and then you could release a news bulletin on the Crisis' resolving and possibly some sort of ceremony creating the new Castelli. Or both that and new houses, I wasn't sure if the Assembly made a new house or not. Anyways, that'd be awesome, and we'd get other people to comment too!)

OOC: The State Assembly created four new Castelli. The Houses, led by House Ruach Tov, has allowed for a vote to go forward to the citizens of each new Castelli and letting them decide what House they want to affiliate with (by majority vote).

As the ten minute break ends, everyone heads back into Estate Multius Room A.

Chief Justice Sermeka: "Welcome back everyone. After conferring with my colleagues the court is ready to rule on Razi and Kait's sentence."
"Kait, please step forward..."

[Kait is ushered to the front of the room by the Oiche na Ruin X operatives who have been acting as guards.]
"Kait you have been found guilty of treason and terrorism against the Kaltian State. Normally this crime would involve death through lethal injection. However, due to the actions of Sefydliad and Oiche na Ruin of the Kaltian Intelligence Community, the only damages caused were to property and no civilian lives were lost. Because of this, the court is showing you leniency in your sentence. You are hereby stripped of all lands and possessions on Elham Island and sentenced to five years in Dorchadas Maximum Security Prison on Ardal Tri."

[Kait stays standing at the front of the room but has been ushered off to the side.]

"Razi, please step forward..."
[Razi is ushered to the front of the room by the Oiche na Ruin X operatives who have been acting as guards.]
"Razi you have been found guilty of treason and terrorism against the Kaltian State. Normally this crime would involve death through lethal injection. However, due to the actions of Sefydliad and Oiche na Ruin of the Kaltian Intelligence Community, the only damages caused were to property and no civilian lives were lost. Because of this, the court is showing you leniency to a degree. Due to your role as leader of the Free Elham organization your sentence shall be greater than that of Kait's. You are hereby stripped of all lands and possessions on Elham Island and sentenced to twenty years in Dorchadas Maximum Security Prison on Ardal Tri."

[Kait is brought back to the middle of the room and stands next to Razi. Both are surrounded by a small contingent of Oiche na Ruin operatives.]
"Razi, Kait... one further condition of your sentence is that you are forever barred from Elham Island. Once you have served your time in jail, the Kaltian Estate shall reimburse you with enough monetary funds to help you settle down in one of the cities on Serravalle, Acquaviva, Akkar or Olira island and find a new job."

Chief Justice Sermeka: "If there are no further comments I officially declare this trial closed."

[The Oiche na Ruin operatives take Razi and Kait with them and start to make their way back to Ardal Tri and from there the Dorchadas Maximum Security Prison.]

Seeing as the court was adjourned, Captain Gundersen and Lieutenant Hohensten make their way down to the trial area, thank the Premier for her hospitality and the Chief Justice for allowing them to speak in court, and then walk off to the SSV Zielodo. Armed with an experience that they would forever remember, along with some wonderful refreshments and special Kaltian double-key seal keychain souvenirs they got on the way out, the Syrixian fleet began to sail back home.

*ring* *ring*

*ring* *ring*

"Hello? Premier? Yes, this is the Prime Minister of Syrixia. Alfred Nursson, yes. I'm calling concerning the crisis in Elham Island I received a very vague word about, as I am in the other side of the region in Malvad currently. We've broken off to draft our parts of the treaty; we should be reconvening around Wednesday. Thus, I have time to relax and explore Malvad. Anyways, what was going on over there? I heard something about a Syrixian captain and some sort of apprehension. What happened?"

Syrixia:

*ring* *ring*

*ring* *ring*

"Hello? Premier? Yes, this is the Prime Minister of Syrixia. Alfred Nursson, yes. I'm calling concerning the crisis in Elham Island I received a very vague word about, as I am in the other side of the region in Malvad currently. We've broken off to draft our parts of the treaty; we should be reconvening around Wednesday. Thus, I have time to relax and explore Malvad. Anyways, what was going on over there? I heard something about a Syrixian captain and some sort of apprehension. What happened?"

Click to expand...

Premier Nightsong has left the Kaltian State Assembly and is heading back to the Kaltian Cabinet where her office is located. As soon as she enters the Cabinet building her phone rings...
"Hello Prime Minister Nursson. Yes... You heard correctly, a Captain and Lieutenant of your naval forces was involved in an incident here in Kalti. As you know Razi and Kait were leaders of the Free Elham organization and tried to overthrow and subvert the Noble Houses. Oiche na Ruin, our special forces unit, managed to apprehend Kait in a nighttime raid in Lieza but Razi got away. By some Divine luck, your naval task force, led by Captain Gundersen and Lieutenant Hohensten, were in Galeva helping to put out fires and help refugees. Razi managed to hitchhike from Lieza to Galeva where he ran into the Syrixians and was swiftly apprehended. As for the trial, both the Captain and Lieutenant were asked if they wanted to give a testimony, it was their choice on that matter..."

Vice-Premier Stark walks up to Premier Nightsong and asks if he can borrow the phone...
"Hello, sorry... this is Vice-Premier Stark. I'd like to arrange a video conference interview with both the Captain and Lieutenant on the matter. Whenever works for both will work. Keep me posted."

He hands the phone back then continues on his way to his office...
"Sorry about that Prime Minister, Anthony has been eager to talk with the Captain and Lieutenant and didn't get much of a chance when the trial was over."

"That's fine. I just wanted to know. They've done a good job; I suspect this will be the impetus for their promotion, though personally I doubt they would want to change their positions otherwise. I've personally met them before, those lads do love their ship."

The Prime Minister laughed, bid the Premier farewell, and went to bed, ready for a relaxing day in Malvad tomorrow.

*ring* *ring*

*ring* *ring*

"Hello? This is Captain Aqoz Gundersen, Captain of the SSV Zielodo, Syrixian Navy...ah, Vice-Premier Stark! Yes, we have a place for video communications, it's mandatory for all Syrixian ships...alright, see you there. Thanks."

"LIEUTENANT! We have an interview today!" calls the Captain.

:n2d

OOC: Sorry for the late reply. Anyways, wherever you see '...' is a space for you to put your own answer, either from the Captain or the Lieutenant.

[A video conferance has been set up between Vice-Premier Stark of Kalti and Captain Gundersen and Lieutenant Hohensten of Syrixia.]

Vice-Premier Stark: "Good day gentlemen. I wanted to get a chance to ask you some questions about the recent crisis involving Razi and Kait."

...

Vice-Premier Stark: "First off, I know you met with Ranii, the wife of Dyzir and one of two commanders of Oiche na Ruin X. I just wanted to inform you that despite her telling you that she was a Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus within the Kaltian Intelligence Community, she was telling you a lie. It is not often that foreigners are allowed to meet these people but Ranii and her husband Dyzir are both Merkismathr, the highest rank one can go within Oiche na Ruin. They operate at the highest levels of secrecy and often do not make appearances to those not from Kalti."

...

Vice-Premier Stark: "Anyways... Onto matters at hand. You were both responsible for the apprehension of Razi. What thoughts were going through your mind when your originally caught him?"

...

Vice-Premier Stark: "I do know that received a call from the Premier to keep Razi well fed and clothed. What was your reaction to that request?"

...

Vice-Premier Stark: "When you came to the Kaltian State Assembly building, as I'm sure you gathered, it was a very unusual proceeding. Normally we do not extend our judicial system to allow foreigners to give testimony on matters of the state. You had the honor of speaking in the trial. How did that feel and are there any last minute remarks you would like to make?"

...

Vice-Premier Stark: "Thank you both for your time. I'll gather this interview together with the new legislation that was passed and both will be announced in a newsletter."

Kalti:

OOC: Sorry for the late reply. Anyways, wherever you see '...' is a space for you to put your own answer, either from the Captain or the Lieutenant.

Click to expand...

(OOC: Here's my reply.)

[A video conferance has been set up between Vice-Premier Stark of Kalti and Captain Gundersen and Lieutenant Hohensten of Syrixia.]

Vice-Premier Stark: "Good day gentlemen. I wanted to get a chance to ask you some questions about the recent crisis involving Razi and Kait."

Captain Gundersen: "We would be glad to answer them, sir."

Vice-Premier Stark: "First off, I know you met with Ranii, the wife of Dyzir and one of two commanders of Oiche na Ruin X. I just wanted to inform you that despite her telling you that she was a Sinsearach Verstand Praefectus within the Kaltian Intelligence Community, she was telling you a lie. It is not often that foreigners are allowed to meet these people but Ranii and her husband Dyzir are both Merkismathr, the highest rank one can go within Oiche na Ruin. They operate at the highest levels of secrecy and often do not make appearances to those not from Kalti."

Captain Gundersen: "That's fine. That's how Oiche na Ruin operates. Just be sure not to disclose that publicly, secret government info should remain secret for the safety of the governed, right?"

Vice-Premier Stark: "Indeed. Anyways... Onto matters at hand. You were both responsible for the apprehension of Razi. What thoughts were going through your mind when your originally caught him?"

Captain Gundersen: "I've been on many operations like this before; I even fought in the One Week War between the European Union and the North Pacific. Thus, I was rather professional and nonchalant about it. I knew what to do."

Lieutenant Hohensten: "This was my first time apprehending someone, though.
It was very exhilarating, but under Captain Gundersen's tutelage I managed to perform my duties admirably."

Vice-Premier Stark: "I do know that received a call from the Premier to keep Razi well fed and clothed. What was your reaction to that request?"

Captain Gundersen: "I was rather open to it, both due to Kaltian law and also making sure Razi was in good shape physically and mentally so the trial would work normally. Lieutenant Hohensten, however, was skeptical about it since we threw him in a solitary confinement cell, but we only did that because of his criminal actions; we made sure he wasn't suffering."

Vice-Premier Stark: "When you came to the Kaltian State Assembly building, as I'm sure you gathered, it was a very unusual proceeding. Normally we do not extend our judicial system to allow foreigners to give testimony on matters of the state. You had the honor of speaking in the trial. How did that feel and are there any last minute remarks you would like to make?"

Captain Gundersen: "We were very honored, and we think it is a great example of Syrixia's excellent international relations with Kalti. Kalti is a great nation with a diverse culture. We were honored to be a part of that, and helping to end the Crisis in the East."

Lieutenant Hohensten: "As Admiral Tiberio always said, it is but the duty of a soldier to his country and its allies, and their continued cooperation and success."

Vice-Premier Stark: "Thank you both for your time. I'll gather this interview together with the new legislation that was passed and both will be announced in a newsletter."

OOC: The Merkismathr are not so much a state secret. Kaltians have public knowledge of the ranks of Oiche na Ruin yet only hear whispers and rumors of who actually hold that particular rank.

(OOC: Ah ok. Also be sure to respond to my post on the foundation day thread.)