"The independence of Zanna"

[Candeluian Minister]

The day is January 2nd 1424, 18:30pm, Tiveronian time.

1ST MEETING OF THE ZANNESE COUNCIL.
-Convened in Tiveronia, January 2nd 1424.
-Answering the Zannese need of Independence.
-Dedicated to protect our people's rights.
-Observing that Zanna has been independent in the past, willingly joining into a union with Candelù in the past.
-Recalling for that independent status.
-And Determined to see our status resolved, for the future of our people.

ZANNESE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE (parts of it)
 

1.  We, the democratically elected leaders of our people, hereby declare Zanna to be an independent and sovereign state.
2.  Zanna will be a declared democratic nation, guided by the principles of non-discrimination and equality.
3.  We shall write and adopt a new constitution as soon as possible.
4.  We express the desire to estabilish good relations with the bordering nations, including the Republic of Candelù, with whom we have deep and important historical ties.

This is the document that started it all. The country is divided, as it was over 200 years ago. The Candeluian government will soon issue an answer to the declaration.

[Candeluian Minister]

January 2nd 1424, 19:30pm, New Maserut time, in the Royal Palace.

Emperor Sebastiano Tiveron and president Alija Granito have been informed of the declaration, their reaction of pure shock is shared through all of the Granzian people.

-How could this happen? How did the government lose so much control of the region, to make Zanna declare independence?- The emperor immediatly asked to Alija, while reading for the 3rd time the zannese declaration.  -We can't have war in Candeluian lands again...-

-Sir, it's not like we lost control of the area... it's just, this was bound to happen, eventually.- Said Alija, current candeluian head of state.     

-Then why, why mister president? Why did Candelù just, disappear?! We're back to being Zanna and Granzia now! And if i learned something from history, it's that war is imminent... in the past, the two nations were constantly in war.- 

No answer, silence reigned in the room for various minutes.

Alija broke the silence. -We're not in the past anymore sir, we'll find a way to deal with them, in a peacefull way, with the help of other nations from the rest of Esferos.- 

-We'll see how this goes then, diplomacy may really be enough... what if the other nations support Zannese independence though, huh? We'd really be back to the past...-

-I don't think that's an option sir, Candelù has pretty good relations with most nations.-

They kept talking about the situation, and as the meeting ended, Emperor Sebastiano was left with even more doubts. Would other leaders really support Candeluian unity, or would they switch to supporting zannese independence? Is Candelù ready for an eventual war? Would he be dethroned? With all those thoughts in his mind, the emperor could barelly sleep that night.

[Candeluian Minister]

January 3rd 1424, 15:00pm, New Maserut time.

People of New Maserut gathered in front of the royal palace, Piazza Clemente hasn't  been this crowded in many years. The people were standing there, waiting for their emperor to start his speech.

After more than 20 hours after being informed about Zanna, The emperor has organized a speech for the people.
Even with all of his insecurities, the emperor organized the best speech he could.
In the afternoon, on the balcony of the royal palace, facing directly the square, He would talk to the candeluian people.

 -Men and Women of Candelù, of the land and the empire of my dynasty, my people, listen carefully! As i stand here, i am aware of the recent independence of Zanna, a serious problem is in front of us, a problem for our present, for our future, to which we, candeluians, shall not remain indifferent.
Luckly, thanks to our good relations with most nations in the entirety of Esferos, we are not left alone, many of them have already offered to send support. 
We shall not succumb to fear and doubt, and even though future might seem uncertain for our nation, hope for re-union is still here.-

He'd stop for a bit of time.

-For this brief speech, i'd like to add one last thing, my people.-

-Even in this temporary disunity of our nation, we shall not let the candeluian spirit die. While now, what remains in our power are the historically Granzian regions, this doesn't make us return to Granzia. We are now, and especially will always be, candeluians.-

The emperor would now return inside the palace. 
 

[Nouveau]

 

Ministère de la Défense Press Office
Place Héros
245 Rue de l'Armurerie
Pointe-d’Espoir, Trebec 01569
Republic of Nouveauterra

 

 

 

FORCES TO BE DEPLOYED IN RESPONSE TO POLITICAL UNREST IN THE NATION OF CANDELÙ

1/4/1424

La Republique de Nouveauterre will be deploying troops and equipment to the nation of Candelu with the express mission of aiding national stability and peacekeeping within the region.

Approximately 1000 service members will be deployed to the region as part of efforts with partner nations to ensure peace, and protect diplomatic efforts.

These efforts fall within the mission of advancing national interests in regional security, and protecting the shared interests of like-minded nations through precise intervention.

Forces included in these efforts will originate from the infantry companies of Marteau, the infantry companies of Trebec, and the combined arms companies of Corne d’Abondance. Forces will also include airlift sections of the Air Force, and select reservist detachments.

This mission is the result of Special Request 1424-0001 made by President Hugo Quizolin, duly granted by le Grande Assemblee on January 4th, 1424, pursuant to articles of the mandate of le Ministère de la Défense.

Un En Lute

[Zoran]

January 3rd, 1424
4:00 PM Over Time
New Zoradia, Zoran

“Your Majesty, Ambassador Ahyoka is on the line to report the current situation in Candelu.” said Foreign Affairs Minister Rayetayah Agaluysdi,

“Thank you, Agaluysdi, put her on speaker.” replied Queen Atsila. Rayetayah obliged, putting the call on speaker so all in the room could hear.

“Ambassador,” said Atsila, “you are on speaker. Myself along with Minister Agaluysdi and General Adahihi are in the room right now. What is the situation in Candelu and what do  you recommend we do at this point in time?”

“Thank you, Your Majesty,” begins Ahyoka, “the situation does not seem…ideal as it were. The situation is not likely to turn violent yet but who knows how the situation will develop at this point in time. It is my guess that the emperor is likely to try a diplomatic approach with the Zannians.”

“How receptive are the Zannians to negotiations with the Emperor?” asked Rayetayah,

“I can’t say, sir, but considering that the Zannians have continuously ignored Candeluian laws and seem to be adamant about their independence, I assume that they are not too keen on the idea.”

The Queen sits there for a moment and ponders the situation, knowing very well that lack of communication could cause the situation to escalate as either party grows more desperate.

“Do you recommend that we get involved at all?” asks the queen,

“If we do, we cannot favor either side. But doing nothing won’t improve the situation at all but we have the excuse of distance to ignore the situation.” answered Ahyoka,

“What is the likelihood of armed conflict developing in the region?” asked General Adahihi,

“Well, as I said earlier the likelihood of armed conflict is low at the moment but should Candelu dissolve and become Granzia and Zanna again then conflict in the future is possible. Also, should a violent uprising occur, the Candeluian government would be unlikely to put it down as they lack a military”

The Queen mulls over her options, thinking over possible actions she could take. While she knows she could simply remain uninvolved in the situation, she does not want to continue the old GDC policy of political isolation. Knowing how badly the civil war affected her country, she does not wish for a similar situation to occur in another part of the world. She closes her eyes and thinks back upon the capabilities of the nation when she recalls the plan for the structure of the Zoranian army. She opens her eyes and looks to General Adahihi,

“General, you were there when Waholi and I along with other leaders of the Revolutionary Army came up with the plan for the Zoranian army, right?”

“Yes, Your Majesty. The plan was to develop a powerful force that can be rapidly deployed and be flexible in their mission capacity through modularization and training to perform a variety of duties outside of warfare.”

“Eh, close enough,” says Atsila, “would you say that the army, in its current state, has the capacity for an initial rapid deployment task force?”

“Where are you going with this, Your Majesty?” asks Ambassador Ahyoka curiously. Minister Rayetayah raises an eyebrow at Atsila, clearly curious himself as to what she is planning.

“How about we offer to send a peacekeeping force into Candelu to help maintain conditions to facilitate negotiations between the two parties? We ensure peace is maintained and use our presence as a deterrent for any opportunists seeking to incite some violence.”

“That…could work,” says Ahyoka, “as long as we maintain that we are neutral in the affair and keep our troops from taking sides then it could be a valid option.”

“Uh…I think we should consult Minister Yenuha on this.” says Minister Agaluysdi with hesitation, “The deployment of troops abroad without a declaration of war, even for a peacekeeping operation, might ruffle some feathers in the dikahnawadvsdi aninotlvsgi iyunadai.”

Atsila laughs in response to this statement,

“I will take care of the iyunadai should they try to confront me on this, I want you, Minister Agaluysdi, to do your part in monitoring the situation with Ambassador Ahyoka to ensure that our peacekeeping efforts are proceeding as planned.”

“Just to be clear,” says Ahyoka, “we are offering to send a peacekeeping force into Candelu?”

“Yes, with not just military personnel but also some military observers and police to ensure conditions conducive to negotiations are maintained. Inform the Candelu and Zannian parties about this and make it clear to them that our forces are there in a neutral capacity.”

“Very well, Your Majesty. I will get to it immediately.” says Ahyoka before hanging up. Atsila turns to look at General Adahihi,

“Get the pre-planned rapid deployment task force of one light mechanized infantry battalion, one self-propelled mortar battery, and one light cavalry company ready for deployment as soon as possible. Prepare the necessary C-17s for their transport along with their equipment and vehicles.”

General Adahihi salutes and marches out of the room to fulfill their orders leaving Atsila and Rayetayah together in the room.

“Don’t underestimate the iyundai, Your Majesty, you don’t want to make an enemy of it.” says Rayetayah nervously,

“Oh I am aware, but I know just the right song to play to get opponents to see this as an opportunity for Zoran. Now, I must go to my next meeting, see you later, Rayetayah.” she says as she gets up from her chair and walks out the room.

[Bran Astor]

The Kingdom of Cambria:

Acknowledges the declaration of independence made by the region of Zanna on 2 January, 1424.

Reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the principle of self-determination for all peoples.

Recognizes the right of the Zannese people to determine their own future and establish their own sovereign state.

Notes the historical grievances and ongoing challenges faced by the Zannese people, while also acknowledging the complex past between Zanna and the region of Graznia.

Expresses its sincere hope for a peaceful resolution to any outstanding disputes between Zanna and its neighbors, and encourages all parties to engage in constructive dialogue and diplomacy.

Declares its intention to establish formal diplomatic relations with the independent Zanna, and to work together to build a relationship based on mutual respect, cooperation, and the promotion of shared values.

Offers its assistance to Zanna in its transition to independence, and stands ready to provide support in areas such as governance, infrastructure development, and economic growth.

Calls upon the international community to respect the right of Zanna to self-determination, and to support its peaceful integration into the global community.

[Sekiya]

---

Common Translation:

Spoiler

Letter of recognition of the Zannese Council as the governing body of the lands of Zanna.

 

The Lands and Realms guided by the Sovereign House of Xing, represented by the Sovereign Assembly and Eternally Aligned to the Starist Faith:

Recognising the Zannese Council’s declaration of independence on the international date 2^nd January 1242.

Establishing good relations with the Zannese Council.

Maintaining good relations with the Republic of Candelu.

The Lands and Realms guided by the Sovereign House of Xing, represented by the Sovereign Assembly and Eternally Aligned to the Starist Faith joins the Kingdom of Cambria in:

Recognizing the right of the Zannese people to establish their own sovereign state.

Offering assistance to the Zannese council in its transition to independence.

Calling upon the international community to respect the right of Zannese independence.

 

Signed: Premier Liu Xinrui

Seal of Approval: Sovereign Seal of the House of Xing

[OOC: This was mainly done with google translate. I sincerely apologise for any language mistakes made]

[Candeluian Minister]

January 4th 1424, 10:00 am, Tiverian time.
"The Granzian Threat is growing constantly, or at least the population's fear is growing.
Though, the fear of our people isn't wrong. We're weaker, our economy still has to properly get back in function, and the people ask for a president, someone to guide them through the worst time of modern Zannian history. And that's where i come in, i'll gladly take the spot as temporary president of Zanna, untill our constitution is written, untill we're stable, untill it will be needed." this is an extract of Karl Spritzetto's talk to the Zannese people. Spritzetto is a well known figure in Zanna, being the former president of Tiveria. He's seen as a strong figure, someone that wouldn't allow another unity with Granzia, especially now.
He's already announced that he'll start to work on the economy, organize the country, and most important of all, organizing some divisions of soldiers who want to fight for our independence. Zanna will not be seen anymore as the weak side of Candelù, we will be seen as the shining star of Doll Guldur, we will better our foreign relations, thanks to Spritzetto, we shall be fully independent.

[Candeluian Minister]

January 9th 1424, 00:00 am, Tiveronian time.

A' Candela Mattutina _1/9/1424

Peace keeping forces are able to keep peace between the two nations, as a sort of "demilitarized zone" is created on the border.
Crysis is closer than ever for the candeluian land, now that both nations are organizing a national army.
Candeluians are still being forcebly removed from Zannese lands, and violence seems to be used much more, since the instauration of the temporary government.

And here, in the middle of the night, the Candeluian cities gradually start to get gradually quieter, until.

(A photo from the streets of Clementia, the fire starts spreading.)

The city of Clementia was shook from an explosion in the main plaza, which then caused a large fire that spreaded to the close-by appartments, causing many injured, and 4 deaths.
While there's no culprit found as the incident just happened, many already speculate that this was a terrorist attack, programmed by radical zannese supporters.
We will bring news about the incident as soon as they're present, and we give our full support to Clementese people.

[Candeluian Minister]

January 10th 1424, 4:40 pm,  New Maserut time.

A Broadcast of the minister of defense, Nicco Gilimberti, who's role has been almost completly useless since the full de-militarization of Candelù, has been seen all throughout the nation.
"This is where we should cross the line! The zannese "government" organized a terrorist attack in one of our oldest and biggest cities, we won't let anything else pass like that!" he'd shout.
"We will start organizing a volunteer army, and a bigger mobilization eventually, like those rebels are doing. we will place them on our border, and then, we'll see how the situation evolves, if they keep sending attacks like that, we might have no other choice but to declare war on our own people."
The de-militarized zone will soon be covered on both sides by Candeluian and Zannese soldiers, the smallest of mistakes might bring the nation to war.








"The clock starts ticking on Zanna."
 

[Nouveau]

January 10th, 1424, 5:20PM - within La Citadelle de la République

President Laclare sat in the Office of the President, with Chef de Retinue Vitale Fête reading off a list of interns being brought to work in Le Grande Assemblee. Pierre Laconcorde, Minister of Intelligence, strode into the office through the open door, with short sharp breaths following every step.

“Monsieur President,” Laconcorde said. Fête rose from his seat with his tablet by his side.

“Your briefing is in 10 minutes,” Fête said.

“It is urgent,” Laconcorde snapped back. “Les Chandellienes.” Fête walked quickly to the office door and closed it.

“Vite, what is happening now?” President Laclare asked.

“The Minister of Defence, Gilimberti, has called up the dogs of war,” Laconcorde said. “Before you say anything, yes they don’t have a regular standing army, but based on sources, armed militias are forming on both sides of the battlelines.”

“We’re sticking to doctrine,” President Laclare said. “War only if absolutely necessary. Inform the Ministry of State. I want you and Everly [Minister of State] in Candelu. See if either side is willing to buy peace. Fête, inform Oies [Minister of Defense] to increase forces in theater in case this war turns hot.”

“Understood Monsieur,” Laconcorde said. He rose from his seat and rushed out of the office, phone to his ear.

Fête brought up his tablet and put an earpiece in his ear. As he barked orders over the microphone, Laclare put his fingers to his brow and shook his head.

Nouveauterran ministers attempt to sell peace to the Candelunians and the Zannese. @Candeluian Ministercan now decide whether none, one, or both sides are interested in peace talks.

1500 additional Nouveauterran soldiers, as well as IFVs and 5 super tankettes will be deployed to the region amid heightened tensions, with an impromptu operations base being built in the DMZ.

[Candeluian Minister]

January 11th, 1424, 3:00PM, General Zannese/Granzian (Candeluian) Time.
The Nouveauterran ministers' proposal was a predictable happening, that is ready to finally bring peace in the Candeluian lands.
Sebastiano would breathe a sigh of relief, expecting the zannese government to actually be reasonable, and accept the peace talks, knowing that Zanna would be given more autonomy, or well, even an independent but friendly state, but he was wrong.
Sprizzetto's government has announced that they will not be searching for peace with the "Granzians", saying: -"We were under their influence for over a century, they want us under their influence now, and they want to keep us under it. It's time to show that Zanna can be OVER the Granzians! For Zanna!".
The king was crushed. War might still be an outcome for his people, and he doesn't want it. While the president helps organizing militia units, he can't do anything other than watch.
The option of peace is still present as well, but no one can predict how this will end, any event could change the route of this conflict.

"The clock is ticking on Zanna."

[Candeluian Minister]

January 24th, 1424, 3:00PM, General Zannese/Granzian (Candeluian) Time.
The rest of the month would pass relatively calmly, no acts of violence would happen between the two nations. In this day however, the Zannese government would send a peculiar request to the Nouveauterran base in the demilitarized zone.

It was simply, a request to remove any divison found in "Zannese, neutral and Granzian" territory, as it is "An obvious threat against the very existence of Zanna itself", because "no blood has been spilled so far", and their presence was "not needed".

From this day, the zannese would become more and more active and supportive of the idea of a bigger Zanna... basically what was Candelù before this civil war, with the complete eradication or exile of all granzian people (Besides those who were to swear loyalty to the Government).

While the zannese people are almost completly supportive of an eventual full-on war, as a way to show their power, the Candeluians, still creating improvised militia with the little equipment left after such a rapid and massive mobilization (for an armyless nation standards), had very, very low war support from the population, hell, even the king himself was against this senseless war. 

War is now the most likely outcome, and both sides know it.


Now, how will the Nouveauterran soldiers in the base answer? will they actually leave Candelù to it's fate, or will they still help to keep peace? @Nouveau may choose.

[Nouveau]

January 24th, 1424, 03:35 PM Overtime, in Pointe-d’Espoir, Nouveauterra

President Guy Laclare and Prime Minister Martin Toro stood by a column, looking out at the city of Pointe-d’Espoir.

“What are we going to do about Representative Châtaignier?” Prime Minister Toro asked. “Are we really going to let the knives get him?”

“I know he is one of our own,” President Laclare said. “But he’s in a safe district. Losing him isn’t a loss for us. And HE decided to play with fire. If he listened to his father about playing with matches, he would’ve never touched Bertha Brun in the first place.”

“Monsieur President,” Minister of Defence Mark Oies approached from the shadows with a grave look. His heavy steps echoed. He is shadowed by Minister of Intelligence Pierre Laconcorde. “I’ve ensured that this get-together is private.”

President Laclare looked over Minister Oies’ shoulder to see Vitale Fête give an approving nod from down the balcony-way. President Laclare and Prime Minister Toro gave Minister Oies a nod.

“The Zannese have sent us a message,” Minister Oies said. “They want us out of Candelu. The Zannese are hungry for war, as Monsieur Laconcorde relayed to me.” President Laclare bit his fist, and Prime Minister Toro let out a sharp sigh.

“The Zannese have circulated a concept of Great Zanna,” Minister Laconcorde said. “Total revolution. The state would be dissolved, and a new state formed. Ethnic tensions are at their worst point in recent history. The inflamed tensions will likely lead to ethnic cleansing and mass exiling.”

“Genocide,” Prime Minister Toro said. “Quizolin was right.”

“Based on intelligence, no other nation has received such a message yet,” Minister Laconcorde said. “We have pushed the most for peace, maybe it is the loudest goose getting the bullet. In addition, we can’t confirm if the message came from a splinter group or the executive organ of the Zannese Council.”

President Laclare pointed straight to Prime Minister Toro with his teeth bared. “This is what I warned you about!” Prime Minister Toro held up both his hands.

“It is an outcome we accepted could happen,” Prime Minister Toro said. “Now it’s just about working around it.” President Laclare took deep breaths as he faced the city.

“We said we were there for peace in our time,” President Laclare said. “We’ll spin it that way to the public. The Zannese are all too eager to shoot some shots, and they want us gone so that poor Granzian women and children are a lot easier to put in the crosshairs.”

“Maybe something a little more civil tonton,” Prime Minister Toro said.

Flash forward to 6:00PM Overtime, in the Press Room of the Citadelle

“Let us not mince words,” President Laclare said. “The brave men and women of the Armed Forces are in Candelu to ensure peace. And we have had peace, only because of the work of our soldiers and our like minded partners locally and abroad.

“Madames et Monsiuers we stand at the crossroads of destiny. Indecency and domination litter the past and have brought us to this moment. But we have a choice. We can choose peace, respect, and cooperation. We’ve chosen peace, and if the peoples of Zanna and Granzia do too, we would happily work to ensure economic and political connections are normalized.

“However, if the choice of the day is war, dehumanization, and hostility, we will not hesitate in protecting innocent lives and keeping the peace on our continent. We can have peace in our time, only if we keep it.”

 

Nouveauterra publicizes the request made by the Zannese to leave the country. Nouveauterran soldiers remain in the base and hunker down, expecting the worst.

Every player gets a chance to respond diplomatically.

[Candeluian Minister]

January 26th, 1424, 09:00 AM, On the demilitarized zone Zannese border.
Zannese people didn't like the answer given from the nouveaterran soldiers, which was remaining there, in their land.
To contrast this, common Zannese civilians, farmers, workers of any kind, decided to unite in front of the main Nouveaterran outpost and protest their very own presence in the region.

While the revolts did start out peacefull, just with people chanting against them, things soon became violent.

Some protestants threw IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) at the base, which could have brought heavy wounds to the soldiers present.
The protests seem to have calmed down, but are still present, and still demanding other nations (Especially Nouveaterra, as they've been the ones aiming for peace the most) to "let Zannese and Granzians handle this situation by themselves".

On the other side of the border, the Candeluian milita groups were fully organized, and they were now prepeared to defend their homeland if needed, but especially, they were ready to help and liberate the zannese people from the tyrants that caused this rebellion in the first place.

With the situation getting hotter each day, war is certain.









"The mid-day hour is ticking on Zanna."

[Zoran]

January 27, 1424
5:23 AM Over Time
New Zoradia, Zoran

“...Taking note of recent events, General Adahihi, what is the latest report on our peacekeeping forces in Candelú?” asked Queen Atsila, “I take it that the situation is not proceeding ideally?”

“To be honest, Your Majesty, that is putting it mildly. The situation continues to escalate and the presence of our forces in the country seems to only be exacerbating current tensions. While the Nouveaterran forces have been the primary focus of the media in Candeú and the ones who are drawing the Zannesse’s ire, our forces have been facing harassment and violent attacks as well.” he says, pausing to take a sip of coffee, “While some areas have remained some semblance of stability since the arrival of our forces, these cases are few in the reports we are receiving.”

“Any injuries or deaths among our own?”

“Thankfully no, Your Majesty. But it must be said that with pressure from the Zannesse government rising and hostilities further increasing this might no longer be the case for very long.” 

Atsila rubs her chin as she thinks about her next course of action worried about the disaster that could come if Zoranian troops die on foreign soil.

“If I may interject, Your Majesty,” interrupts Minister Agaluysdi, “before we make any further decision on the Candelú situation we must take into consideration the threat posed to the Granzian people by the growing ambitions of the Zannesse government.” Minister Agaluysdi proceeds to pass an intelligence report from the Secret Intelligence Council to Atsila. She reads over it as he explains, “The ambitions of the Zannesse government go beyond simple independence at this point. They seek to take over the entirety of what was Candelú with the intention of committing genocide against the Granzian population in the country. While our policy advocates for national sovereignty, there is a limit to which we can support a state’s actions. If we were to turn a blind eye towards a state with genocidal ambitions when we are in a position to prevent such actions from taking place then you risk losing support of some of your people and risk angering those on the left.”

“But if we do interfere with the situation,” interjects General Adahihi, “then we risk looking like hypocrites in the international community with an inconsistent foreign policy. Not to mention that stomping out a newly independent government would draw even more anger from some groups within our country. Not to mention that while the majority of our military is developed and supplied enough for operations, performing a large-scale operation on another continent would be a risk I would be hesitant to take.”

While the two debated the situation, Atsila reviewed the intelligence report and pondered the situation in her head.

We have no real treaty obligation with the Candelú government to take action in the result of a war, to actively engage in a war with Zannia would go beyond peacekeeping efforts and present a bad image of Zoran to the international community. Not to mention that with Candelú so far removed from Zoran it would be hard to justify military action to the populace when it isn’t even in our backyard. The other factor to consider is while the report states that the Zannese government is likely to commit genocide, it has yet to commit such actions against the granzians. If we had proof of genocidal acts actively taking place within Zannia then maybe we could justify some sort of further intervention but until then it would be out of the question. I also have to consider the safety of the troops currently deployed in Candelú and whether it is worth the risk of keeping them there.

As she concluded her thoughts she returned her focus to the meeting where she found her two ministers had somehow arrived at the topic of the next Rugby World Cup. She clears her throat to get their attention,

“I agree with the concerns over potential genocidal acts being part of the agenda of the Zannese government and that we cannot ignore such ambitions; however, what makes it hard for us to justify further involvement at the moment is the lack of any treaty obligation towards Candelú at the moment. Peacekeeping was a suitable work around but we are seeing that the situation is developing in a way where it is not a sustainable solution for the problem. Attempting to create such a treaty or agreement with candelú would take too long as we would have to go through a series of negotiations with the government as well as get the approval of the iyundai, which is not guaranteed.”

“Well what that sounds like is we can do absolutely nothing then.” sighed Minister Adahihi,

“Buuuuuut,” Atsila says with a smirk, “if I recall correctly, when we reviewed Zoran’s treaties last year we stumbled upon an agreement made between the GDC and Nouveaterra three years before the revolution broke out which called for the construction of two Zoranian military installations in the country, specifically two air force bases. While I believe the base was completed, the war put the use of the base into question and it has likely been left abandoned if not in current use by the Nouveaterran Air Force.” General Adahihi’s eyes narrow and he gives a slight smirk,

“What are you thinking, Your Majesty?”

“I think we should reach out to the Nouveaterran and inquire about the base and get it set up for military use again if it has been left abandoned. If not, we simply ask for it back as the agreement was never canceled. My plan is to pull our troops out of Candelú immediately and to start positioning some aircraft and personnel into those air force bases once they are in operation. Meanwhile, we keep observing the situation from afar and the minute intelligence finds any sign of genocidal activities we work with Nouveaterra, Candelú, and any other nations interested, to intervene on the grounds of preventing genocide.”

General Adahihi cackles and claps his hands together gleefully,

“That is a very interesting and cunning plan, but what would be our objective in this conflict? What would our forces even be doing?”

“Our goal would be to enforce a peace agreement which respects the independence of both nations but enforces unconditional and safe return of any and all refugees and displaced persons, the stationing of peacekeepers to enforce the agreement and to ease tensions, and bringing any officials who had a hand in the genocide to court. Whether it would be possible to depose the genocidal administration from the Zannese government would be nice too but we can save that for future discussions with the others should this plan go well. In terms of our role in this conflict, we would primarily be conducting air campaigns over Zannia to destroy any existing military infrastructure and other strategic targets while Nouveaterra and Candelú primarily deal with ground and naval operations. While this plan is ambitious I believe it has a chance of working should Zannia actually act on its genocidal intentions.”

“I am a bit skeptical, Your Majesty.” says Minister Agaluysdi, “This plan has a lot of moving parts to it and hinges on a lot of ‘if’s’ with no real guarantee of success.”

“Well, would you prefer that we do nothing?” she retorts and is only met with silence from Agaluysdi, “Well then it is decided. Minister, arrange a meeting between me, the king of Candelú, and the president of Nouveaterra as soon as possible, inform them that I intend to make the meeting in person.” Agaluysdi’s eyes widen with surprise,

“In person! That’s a first for you. With what tr-”

“Did you forget already?” says General Adahihi, “The two jets we ordered for transporting Her Majesty were finally delivered last week.”

“Wait, they arrived!?” exclaimed Agaluysdi,

“Yes, weren’t you paying attention during the cabinet meeting last Wednesday?” asked Atsila,

“Apparently I wasn’t paying enough attention to the meeting. Very well, I will make the arrangements necessary for the meeting. Shall also inform the embassy in Candelú to inform the government of our decision to pull our troops out of the country?”

“Yes, and when you get the meeting arranged be sure to let them know it is in regards to the Zannia situation.” and with that, Agaluysdi rises from the table and bows to Atsila before leaving the room.

“”I assume you want me to get transportation arranged for the withdrawal of troops and to get our peacekeeping personnel ready for withdrawal?” asked Adahihi,

“You assume correctly, you are dismissed.” Adahihi rises from the table and salutes Atsila before leaving the room.

Atsila sighs and checks what is next on her schedule when Director Soyohata enters the room. Upon seeing him and the uneasy smile on his face Atsila let out a groan,

“What is it, Soyohata?”

“Soooo…Varanius-” he began before Atsila let out a loud groan of frustration.

[Nouveau]

January 28th, 1424, 08:45PM Overtime
within the Den of Bones beneath la Citadelle de la République

“Queen Adsila of Zoran and Emperor Tiveron of Candelu have confirmed their desire to meet, urgently, to discuss collaboration with Les Chadellienes on the Zannese secession question,” Minister of State Bart Everly said. President Guy Laclare nodded.

“A friend of the Ministry will provide us with a meeting place in Dreistelkrek,” Minister of Intelligence Pierre Laconcorde said. “Any suspicious reports will be passed to the Viriarma immediately for investigation.”

“You’ll have a detail from the Viriarma to protect you. But because I’m coming with you,”  Minister of Defense Mark Oies said, “You’ll also have soldiers of the Army guarding you. Airspace above the chateau will be surveilled. Only approved people get access into the building.”

President Laclare and Prime Minister Toro sat at their end of the table with grave faces. “I’ll have to do this meeting without you,” President Laclare said. “Even if it’s in our backyard, the Viriarma says there’s still some risk. Continuity of power, things like that.”

“It won’t be too bad,” Prime Minister Toro said. “The Zoranians and the Candelunians are easy enough to work with. Besides, maybe some nice mountain air will be a good stress-relief.” President Laclare smiled as he shook his head.

“Let’s do some anchors and buoys,” President Laclare said. “I’ll start with the big anchor; we’re committed to peace in Candelu.” The people in the room nodded in agreement.

“Buoy,” Prime Minister Toro started, “To keep the peace, we should refrain from using force.”

“It will depend on the parties,” Minister Everly said. “The Zannese are not as interested in peace as we are. We have to be willing to use force.”

“We’d need a full bench if we’re looking to wage a war there,” Minister Oies said. “Manpower commitment from Zoran and the Candelunians. And foreigners kicking in Zannese doors is gonna be bad for the local morale, but it’ll be necessary, since the Granzians likely aren’t skilled in that kind of fighting. I guess both of those would be buoys.”

“If men and women have to fight in the field,” President Laclare said, “How many can we bring out?”

“2,500 soldiers are in country right now,” Minister Oies said. “Because we don’t have any other commitments, who we can call up is more of an open book. Not to mention aircraft and naval assets.”

“Good,” President Laclare said. “At least we have a good foundation to start this meeting with. Do we know what to expect from the Candelunians? The Zoranians?”

“The Candelunians need a life raft,” Minister Laconcorde said. “They do not want a war. Even with the militias they have now, warfare would cause deep scars, whether they succeed in quashing the rebellion or not. The Zoranians are far away, only tangentially interested in the possible war to come. Her Majesty has a reputation to uphold, and might put skin in the game if we are convincing enough.”

“Everybody wants something,” President Laclare said. “At least we can start with that.” Chief of Staff Vitale Fête, who stood behind President Laclare, leaned over the table with a tablet in hand.

“Monsieur President,” Fête said, “please assign the staff members who will be with you for this meeting.”

Entourage
Chef de Retinue Vitale Fête
Minister of State Bart Everly
Minister of Defense Mark Oies
Minister of Intelligence Pierre Laconcorde

“I could’ve just said this, Vitale,” President Laclare said. “But I appreciate how much technology we’re including now. Let's go before some ghosts start rattling their chains in here.”

[Candeluian Minister]

January 27th 1424, 4:40 pm,  New Maserut time

As Sebastiano would receive the news of a meeting being actually organized, he'd immediatly begin prepearing to reach Nouveaterran lands.
He would also call on some of the ministers from the nation to follow him to this meeting, these men being:

1. Alija Granito: Current president of the nation, he would come with as a second main figure to the emperor.
2. Nicco Giliberto: Minister of defence of the Candeluian nation.
3. Malco Mies: Minister of Intelligence of the Candeluian nation.
   
   
   
    

Meanwhile, the situation on the border kept worsening. Bases being raided, and some Zannese men trying to cross over the demilitarized zone.
The situation is worsening, but the upcoming event might help calm down the Zannese.
 

[Zoran]

January 28, 1424
9:33 PM Over Time
RC-33 above the Viatic Ocean

“How are you finding the accommodations on the aircraft, Your Majesty?” asks Minister Agaluysdi,

“I,” she answers with a yawn, “find them remarkable. I must admit, it has been hard adjusting to such lavish accommodations since I became queen.”

“You will get used to it, I am sure. Now, let’s discuss the details of tomorrow’s meeting.” he answers as he takes a seat opposite of Atsila next to General Adahihi and Director Soyohata, “The meeting shall be held in Dreistelkrek, your security detail and guards have already arrived and are working with the Viriarma to prepare for your arrival as we speak”

“We are also working with Nouveauterran intelligence to ensure the security of the event, so you should have nothing to fear.” says Director Soyohata as he pops a praline pecan into his mouth,

“...where did you get the pecans?” asks Adahihi curiously,

“From the kitchen.”

“...which kitchen?”

“Gentlemen, can we please return our focus to the meeting?” interrupts Atsila, “What can you tell me about the Nouveauterran entourage?”

“Well President Guy Laclare will be there, as you requested, and he will be accompanied by Minister of State Bart Everly, Minister of Defense Mark Oies, and Minister of Intelligence Pierre Laconcorde.” answers Agaluysdi,

“What are their objectives for this meeting?” asks Adahihi,

“Well, to me it seems that the Nouveauterrans want to avoid conflict, if possible, to preserve peace in Candelú. But they would be willing to resort to force if necessary, which will likely be the case considering the zannesse rhetoric. In the meeting they will likely be looking for some sort of manpower commitment from us.”

“That sounds about right. Now what about the Granzians? What should we expect from them.” asks Atsila,

“The Granzian entourage shall consist of Emperor Tiveron, Alija Granito; the current president of the nation, Nicco Giliberto; Minister of Defence, and Malco Mies; minister of Intelligence.To put it bluntly, they are looking for any sort of support either party can offer. While they do not want a war they are likely going to get one. They lack experience in combat and their forces at the moment consist of militias that lack any formal training. They will likely be looking for any sort of aid from us whether it be in the form of manpower or otherwise.” the room nods in agreement at this statement.

“As for our goals, let’s start with the basics.” says Atsila, “Our primary goal is to establish cooperation between our countries. This will include gaining control of the air force bases promised to us, withdrawing our peacekeeper forces, and monitoring the situation in Candelú further with the goal of finding solid evidence of Zannesse acts of genocide against the Granzians.” everyone nods in agreement as this is the third time today they have went over these goals,

“Then, our secondary goal is to ensure that the two nations do not feel as though we are abandoning them. We must state our intention of getting involved once verifiable evidence of genocidal acts are being committed by Zannia. From there, we need to inform them of how we are getting involved.” states Atsila,

“We will inform both parties that our intelligence officers will be monitoring the situation through various channels and methods to ensure that we get something that can be presented to the iyundai in order to get their approval for the war.” says Soyohata as he pops another praline pecan into his mouth

“And we will tell them that we will be using the aircraft stationed in Nouveauterra and later Candelú to launch an air campaign against Zannia to destroy any existing military infrastructure and other strategic targets while Nouveaterra and Candelú work on the ground and sea. We will also be sending generals to Granzia to properly train their militiamen during the conflict.” adds Adahihi,

“Exactly,” says Atsila with a yawn, “as for our final objective, we have to make sure that we are all on the same page as to what a peace agreement between Granzia and Zannia will look like. We can work out the details with them later but we must remember what our ideal outcome looks like.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.” says Agaluysdi, “But I feel like we have gone over this enough for today. We should all get some rest.”

“Agreed,” says Adahihi, “we need to make sure we are sharp when we arrive there in the morning.” While everyone stands up to head to their rooms, Soyohata stops Atsila,

“Mind if I discuss a matter with you really quickly?”

“Very well, but please do make it quick.” she says as she sits back down.

“So, as we both know, Nouveauterran corporations have substantial influence in their country. The Corporate Investigation Task Force of the SIC wanted me to ask you if we could perform some further investigation into the companies there.”

“For what purpose?”

“To hunt for fugitive corporate executives that might be hiding out in those companies and to find out how much control over Nouveauterran politics they have. I am going to be honest, I don’t quite trust the current Nouveauterran administration and I kind of agree with the CITF on this one, despite their radical tendencies.”

Atsila thought about this for a moment before she nods her head,

“Give them the go ahead but make sure they are discrete.”

“Very well, I will get right on that. Have a good night, Your Majesty.”