NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: This is an invite only thread, some of you have already been invited, TG or PM me if you'd like to be invited also.

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IC:

"Your Majesty, are you sure you want to proceed with your plans? Changing the nation's name, by itself, has stirred up the nobles," Norgan Sheloran, Altanar's Minister of Justice, said cautiously.

Dala Crevenarath, the Minister of Social Welfare, interrupted him brusquely. "Waiting longer only delays the inevitable, to the pain of everyone. Better to pull a scab off quickly than slowly."

Altanar's young King sighed, drumming his fingers on the long, black-and-gold conference table. "I understand your concerns, Norgan. But Dala is right. We've waited over a hundred years to finally take Altanar to the next step of its rightful evolution. If we're to ever do it, the time is now. The nobles will never drop their stubborn intrasingence. And we cannot withhold democracy from the people just to please a few bluebloods more concerned about their wealth and position than the nation or its people."

"If I may interrupt, your Majesty, it is also important to remember that the stranglehold the nobles have over our legislative process makes it almost impossible to effect any change," Royal Treasurer Warca Simexpa added. "I've served under three kings now, and I have the gray hairs to prove it. The nobles drove many a fine plan of your grandfather and your father to ruin, and they will do the same to you if they can."

"But forcing the nobles out now could cause them to revolt. That could lead to unrest, even fighting among our people," Sheloran exclaimed.

"Not to doubt you, Norgan, but I do not think so. Bringing the Provincial Guards under the Ministry of Defense, and out of the bailiwick of the nobles, took away the last bit of military force the nobles had," Defense Minister Pargal Khaskereth grinned. "The only means the nobles would have to resist our reforms now would be to appeal to the people themselves to revolt. And, considering how disgusted the people are with the nobles, I seriously doubt any of our citizens would even consider it. Most of them want the nobles done away with entirely. We're offering the nobles a lot more than the average citizen on the street would."

"This does raise an interesting point, though," Education Minister Lelia Drekeval remarked archly. "The nobles are sure to ask this question: why do we have to give up all our political power, yet the King gets to keep his? We have to have an answer ready for that argument."

"And we do," Crevenarath responded. "The line of Aranathas has never robbed our people blind. The taxes they collect in their province are the lowest of any noble family. Unlike the other nobles, the line of Aranathas has actually given more money to the people over the years then they've taken from the people. How many schools, hospitals, charities have been funded by the Aranathan kings and queens - even in provinces where the ruling noble there would not? And the line of Aranathas doesn't waste the peoples' money on enriching themselves and on the debauchery and selfish gratification all too common among the nobles. You've seen the headlines they make! Mark my words, the time for prevarication has passed. The peoples' discontent with their taxes going to the nobles is at an all-time high. If we don't force them out now, we may be the ones at the end of a revolt!"

"That will never happen," the King replied. "We will take the necessary steps now. I understand why my predecessors never forced out the nobles. But times have changed. It's time for us to throw out the last decrepit symbols of a divided Altanar and bring true unity and democracy to our people. You are the Altanari High Council. What say you?"

Some hands were raised quickly, others slowly. But eventually, all seven hands of the Council were raised firmly in assent.

"Then we shall move forward. And may the gods and goddesses bless us all," King Aelkyn said.

---

The next day, a Saturday, was a typical winter day in Altanar's capital, Ael Khalas - mild and sunny, with brisk winds sweeping down from the towering mountains to the north.

The nobles of Altanar laughed and joked as they made their way up the sweeping stairs in front of the Altanari Legislative Building. "So, our little boy king wants to start imposing taxes on us, does he? Let him pay them, if he likes. The Aranathans seem to revel in poverty. That's no reason we should," Lord Jovan Pyrellis joked to his colleague, Lord Markesh Ankrina. "I have to agree with you on that one," Ankrina replied. "The King has no authority to impose his will upon our traditional rights. And not paying the Royal Tax is one of those rights!"

"I wouldn't worry about it. We'll put a stop to that taxation bill, just as we do to every other idiotic and power-grabbing scheme Aelkyn comes up with and gets his patsies in the Legislature to support," Lord Werik Grengath laughed.

Their laughter was stopped short when they arrived at the massive front doors of the Royal Senate entrance. The doors were chained shut, and padlocked. Three heavily armed Royal Police stood in front of them.

"What is the meaning of this? Unlock these doors and get out of the way at once!" Pyrellis declared arrogantly to the officer in charge. "I'm afraid I can't do that, sir," the officer replied. "We are under orders to let no one in or out of the Senate Chambers until further notice."

"Do you know who we are? We're not going to tell you again. Move aside!" Ankrina roared.

"I know who you all are, sir. All of Altanar knows who the members of the Royal Senate are," the officer in charge declared coldly. "And as I stated, I am under orders - from the King himself - to let no one in or out of the Senate Chambers until further notice. And that's how it's going to be. You are more than welcome to address this matter with my commanders at headquarters."

"And we shall, you can trust me on that," Pyrellis barked, writing down the name and badge number of the officer. "What in the name of the Pantheon is going on here?" Pyrellis said, as the nobles began walking back to their ground cars.

---

The answer to that question would come quickly. As the nobles began driving back to their homes in the capital, the image of the Royal Seal flashed on the television screens in their limousines. The voice of the Altanari Royal Television announcer solemnly informed viewers that the King was about to address the nation.

The image changed, to show King Aelkyn standing at the podium of the Assembly, the side of the legislative branch made up of elected commoners. In a very unusual move, he was dressed in his ceremonial full regalia (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/aelkyn.jpg), rather than his usual suit and tie. "Honored members of the Altanari Assembly, and people of Altanar, I thank you for allowing me to address you this day. I wish that it was under more casual circumstances. But as Sovereign of Altanar, it is my solemn duty this day to announce a sweeping reform that will bring Altanar firmly into the embrace of democracy."

"Ever since the founding of this nation, we have labored under a cumbersome system where the rights of hereditary nobles were balanced against the rights of the citizens of this nation. We did this because in his wisdom, my ancestor King Olen recognized that it was necessary to have the support of those nobles in order to form this nation. Without that support, Altanar would to this day be divided into petty kingdoms, warring against each other, bringing misery and suffering to the people."

"So, as our history lessons in school teach us, a bargain was struck between King Olen and the rulers of those petty kingdoms. They agreed to form one nation under Olen - the First Among Equals, the King without Peer - as long as their rights to tax and run their respective provinces were maintained. King Olen did this to unify Altanar without war. And it was a wise decision. But even a leader as visionary and devoted to Altanar as he could not have seen the consequences."

"For over a hundred years, we have watched as the nobles have taxed their people to enrich themselves. We have suffered as the nobles used that wealth to live a frivolous and selfish lifestyle, completely against the spirit and ideals of the Altanari Way. Everyone in this room, and indeed everyone watching this telecast now, knows the truth of it - all one need do to see it is view the media reports of their debauched and perverse waste of the peoples' money for their own amusement and enrichment."

"We have also been forced to watch as the nobles, under the banner of the Senate, have blocked any attempts to prevent this waste, and have used their stranglehold over the legislative process to block efforts at democratic reform."

"That era is over. Today, with the support of the Assembly and the High Council, by Royal Decree, the Senate of Altanar is no more! There will only be one Assembly - the one populated by the citizens of Altanar, the one I stand before today! In accordance with our goals of furthering democracy in Altanar, we shall double the number of seats in this Assembly. New elections shall be held in six months, to give even more of our citizens the chance to work towards a more democratic era."

Thunderous applause broke out, as the members of the Assembly stood up and unanimously applauded the King.

"And to the people of the provinces, who have long suffered under the dual burden of paying taxes to the national government and to the nobles, I say to you: that era is over too! Effective today, by Royal Decree, I am stripping the nobles of their right and power to tax the people. The hard-earned money of our people will now go only to the government spending that they support, and not to fatten the pockets of useless leeches! And to show that I do not put myself above that decision, I also declare that from this day forward, the House of Aranathas shall no longer collect any tax or tithe from the provinces of Ael Khalas or Nalioka!"

Even more thunderous applause greeted this announcement, rocking the Assembly walls. Those nobles who bothered to look out the windows of their limousines saw people on the streets, who had been watching the broadcast, cheering and clapping - and occasionally making rude or mocking gestures at the noble limousines and persons driving by.

At least one of the nobles was not amused. This shall not stand, Lord Jovan Pyrellis thought grimly. Aelkyn, now you have gone too far.

"There is absolutely no need for us to go there," insisted Councillor Amalia.

It was, by Teo's count, the sixteenth time she had said it. They had been brangling over the subject for almost two hours now, and surely the Beldame must be in pain. You'd think a woman who'd been Victim of the Month for Valentor's clumsy interrogators not two weeks ago would be ready to take a break. But no, she showed every sign of being able to go on for another two hours -- or sixteen more refusals.

Teo, however, wasn't. "I move we vote," he said.

He saw Jaren's inner eyelids blink briefly as the tall humanoid winced. The mahogany-skinned, golden-eyed Lloegeyrian had a quirky passion for Earthling rules on the proper conduct of meetings, and Teo's move wasn't proper. Nonetheless, as chairman, he let it pass.

"Moved, that the motion be put," Jaren droned. "This now takes precedence over all other matters before the meeting. Does the proposer of the motion wish to exercise her right of reply?"

"I waive that right and ask that voting proceed," said the small, fair-haired young woman next to Teo.

Aha, so Flick's crunched her numbers, Teo noted. Of course, she did learn her politicking in Old Sydney.

"The motion before the chair is that events now taking place in the Kingdom of, ah, Altanar pose a clear danger to human rights of sufficient significance to warrant the attention of the Harpers," Jaren continued. "Voting is by show of hands. Those in favour?"

Raising his own hand, Teo twisted round in his chair to count the palms, paws and claws in support, but the experienced chairman was quicker.

"A clear majority," he announced. "Fifteen to five. Carried."

Teo ignored the smattering of applause. He was too conscious of what this could mean to him. After a year's recovery here in gentle Lavinium, the healers had said he was well enough, but was he trusted enough? Had his fellows truly put the fiasco of Engarrad behind them?

"As the senior functioning Harper here, I claim the leadership of this mission," Jaren announced. "No, Amalia, it's no good, you're not functioning right now, and you know it."

He collected their attention with his eyes as he glanced around the table. "We've been over the reasons this one's important," he said. "To let an open nation fall would be as bad for human rights as failing to pick the locks on a closed one. I'm asking your permission to risk three of our number here."

It wasn't won easily -- the Harpers were spread thin these days as the worlds succumbed to powermongers who promised quick solutions -- but it was won. For Teo, more than won. Jaren had chosen Flick, of course; her advocacy had shown she was already an expert on this "Altanar". But Teo, too, would go along; his unlikely combination of IT skills and explosives expertise had gained him the third place.

"So, will the International President of the Guild of Harpers, Fen-Lord Jaren na-Tholiou, be making another appearance?" Flick asked Jaren, as the three strolled back to the refectory for some well-fuelled planning.

"He might well, if he's not driven to drink by the annoyingly aristocratic trainee, the Right Honourable Milady Felicity Henderson of Baulkham Hills, Old Sydney," smiled the older being.

"Fen-lord?" demanded Teo, scenting a tale.

"He says it's just another was of saying Bogtrotter," Flick explained, "but the Uppah Clahsses of Altanar don't need to know that."

Lord Jovan Pyrellis stared out the windows of his family's ancestral home. The lights of Celavan sprawled over the low hills, twinkling in the night below him. Why must I be saddled with these weaklings as my only supporters, he asked himself silently yet again, listening to his fellow nobles debate.

"We cannot openly oppose the King! He controls the military and the police. Even if we did try to rally the Provincial Guards and our retainers in some kind of revolt, his forces are far superior and outnumber us five to one! He'd crush us like a bug," Lord Ankrina whined.

"Well, we need to figure out something," Lady Tarabesh said sharply in response. "Without the right to tax, we have no revenue. Without that, we really will have no way to stop Aelkyn...not to mention, we'll all end up in the poorhouse. Not a scenario I really want to contemplate."

Pyrellis sighed, and turned around. "The solution to our little dilemma is obvious. You all simply lack the courage to implement it."

The gaggle of nobles seated around the table reacted indignantly. "Oh? And what do you have the courage to do?" Lord Sarkas asked.

"The problem here is obvious. The military and police are a bunch of uniformed morons who don't do anything without their superiors telling them to. The Legislature is nothing but common rabble that would turn to fighting amongst themselves without something to rally around. And the people are even worse that way. The military, the police, the Legislature, the people....they're all sheep. How do you take control of a herd of sheep? You take out the shepherd," Pyrellis said.

His meaning slowly became obvious to the other nobles. "You're thinking of assassinating Aelkyn? Are you insane?" Lord Sarkas snapped. "If we try that, the government will have the heads of all of our families spiked outside the Aerie! You're speaking madness, Jovan!"

"Oh, stop being so dramatic," Pyrellis sighed. "You almost act like you care what happens to Aelkyn. You know damn well you despise him, and his family, as much as any of us do. And we all have reason to. Isn't it the Aranathans that forced us to subordinate ourselves to them? Isn't it that wretched family who has constantly sided with the common rabble over their own class, ever since they started this nation? Seeing Aelkyn dead would make you just as happy as it would me." Pyrellis swirled his wine around in its glass. "But that would be an action of last resort. I was thinking that other methods might sway our little boy king away from his....unacceptable flirtations with democracy."

"What methods are you thinking of applying?" Lady Tarabesh said, with interest in her voice.

"We can use one king to snare another king. Well....a former king, anyway," Pyrellis responded. "Aelkyn's father, that weak old fool Cianar, is sitting in his self-imposed retirement outside of Nalioka. We can....use Cianar. Perhaps he can be....convinced to replace his son. Give the idiot rabble a new shepherd to rally around, one we control. Or, if he proves to be uncooperative, we can use him as leverage against Aelkyn. After all, he's a good son....he wouldn't want to see his father hurt, now would he?"

"You forget another obstacle. When Aelkyn was still unmarried, such a plan might have worked. But he is married now, and his Queen is pregnant. Aelkyn is not likely to bow to any pressure to give up his throne now that he has an heir," Lady Tarabesh said.

"Then we shall have no choice but to remove that obstacle," Pyrellis responded. "I am sure you all agree with me that the line of Aranathas has plagued us long enough, and must end. Cianar is too old to father any more children, and his wife is dead anyway. Losing his wife broke him - if he were to lose his son and his grandchild in one swoop as well, he would be eminently open to our control. If Aelkyn and Melika, and their damnable child, are out of the picture, we could have a pliable king under our thumb whose sole job would be to secure our place and our privileges until he dies, and his line is erased from the earth for good. Then, without the Aranathans hounding us anymore, we can shape a new Altanar. A better one, one that shows respect for us and returns us to our rightful place as the true rulers of this land. And what better way to ensure that then under Cianar's banner? The people still love him, even though he's a doddering old fool. Having him as a puppet gives us all the legitimacy we need in their eyes."

"In that case, perhaps a little....accident should be arranged for Aelkyn and his beloved," Lady Tarabesh said. "Who could fault us for an accident? And without anyone else left, Cianar would have to return to the throne. We have to make sure the old bastard is broken to our control before that, though."

"Leave that to me," Lord Krytellin purred. "Cianar's in my province, it should be easy enough to insert one of my agents into the ranks of his caretakers. And from there, it's just a matter of time."

"Then are we all agreed on this course of action? We must all agree to it, we cannot afford anyone wavering and possibly giving this plan away," Lady Tarabesh said.

One by one, the nobles raised their hands in assent.

Some people would have been annoyed by the business at the Ael Khalas airport, but she wasn't. If that immigration officer had checked her diplomatic passport about three more times, he'd have worn out the pages. And they'd examined the seal on her satchel with everything but an electron microscope. And yes, it really was a diplomatic pouch. She'd noticed the immigration officer looking around for the supervisor when he'd asked her occupation. "Executive Officer, Second Battalion, Special Operations Command, Army of Ausserland". Then he remembered he was the duty supervisor. And, of course, the knife stuck in her boot hadn't lessened his nervousness much.

Then there had been the usual bit about her last name. "Is that really all of it?" She chortled as she considered -- for the umpteenth time and not very seriously -- adding a k to the end. No sense ruining a good old South Dwarvish name.

Major Camphor Ee looked out the window of the cab. The embassy should be right up ahead.

http://h1.ripway.com/reclaim/Camphor_Ee.gif

-----

[The scene: The Ausserland Embassy in Ael Khalas. Ambassador Truddlit Zwedvek is chatting with the newly arrived Major Ee. The "Sammy" they talk about is Samantha Silverhelm, Deputy Minister for Diplomatic Operations in Ausserland's Foreign Ministry.]

http://h1.ripway.com/reclaim/Truddlit_Zwedvek.gif

Zwedvek: "That Sammy's something else, isn't she?"

Ee: "You got that right."

"Field uniform with the shorts and everything. I love it. And even the knife in the boot!"

"When she said that, I said maybe that was a bit much. But she said, 'You usually have that when you go op, right?', and that was that."

"That's our Psych-Em-Out Sammy for you."

"Yeah, I guess she and Old Baldy got their heads together. But this is a Sammy operation, for sure. She quoted Himmelberg at me."

"Let me guess... 'Uncertainty is worth two regiments; confusion, three'."

"Yup."

"So now I get the note inserted, right?"

"That's step two."

"OK, I'm on it."

Sultan Gardab Woltzten IX was back home (http://z11.invisionfree.com/Antarctic_Oasis/index.php?showtopic=339), but still laid up in bed. Propped up against a wall of pillows, he was oscillating between reading a translation of On Liberty, and contemplatively sucking on orange segments being peeled for him by attendant handmaidens. The life of a Sultan was a hard one indeed. The face of Grand Vizier Mikkolic Weltin hove into view.

“Listen to this, Mikko.” The Sultan raised a finger in pre-emption. “‘It will be said, that we do not now put to death the introducers of new opinions: we are not like our fathers who slew the prophets, we even build sepulchres to them. It is true we no longer put heretics to death; but we really should’.” Lowering the book, and the spectacles on his nose, he asked, “Are you sure this translation is quite cast-iron? I think I’ll have to take it up with them.”

“Vital state business as that will be, Holiness, there’s something more pressing.”

The Sultan wearily shooed away the orange-peeling girls and put down his book. Two men flanked the Grand Vizier: one was his usual intelligence liaison who delivered his usual briefings; the other, in military uniform, he did not recognise.

“Holiness, there is trouble in Altanar.”

“Um…”

“They’re considered friendly, not strong allies. Their delegation was very active in defending the Fair Sentencing Act against repeal.”

“Ok.”

The uniformed aide began speaking. “Holiness, King Aelkyn has introduced sweeping new legislation to effectively neuter the nobles. He has removed their political office and rights of taxation, and plans to…”

“Yeah, listen. I’m just recently out of surgery. Half of my own country is buying canned goods and corrugated iron in case my health turns down,” his eyes slid over the Grand Vizier’s implacable face, “And the other half is trying to facilitate that. If this is going to be complex, I’ll be needing a primer on Altanarese civics, and right now, there are things I’d rather be doing, like not dying. Cut to the important bit.”

The three men before exchanged the series of twitching uncertain half-glances that had been the staple of the Sultan’s audience for his whole reign. “Very well, Holiness. Though, at the risk of impertinence, I should point out it’s ‘Altanari’.”

The Sultan studied the uniformed man for a moment. “Cut.”

“Holiness, the King’s acts are reckless and liable to cause to severe civil disruption. Our sources on the ground indicate that while the people are not likely to support the nobles, nor are the nobles to take it, as it were, lying down. There will retribution of some form.”

“Ok, thank you. Then have our ambassador –”

“Holiness…”

“We don’t have an ambassador. Right. Well, then, establish a diplomatic contact of some sort – I don’t care what – and have them communicate our strong support for the King at this time of trouble. Mikko, please draft a letter in my name to whatever their largest paper is…”

“The Ael Khalas Union-Sun.”

“…to that, and indicate that the preservation of monarchic rule within a constitutional setting remains a top priority for Gruenberg. And I’d like to make contact with these nobles: let them know that an attack on monarchy would be viewed as just that.”

An intensely active silence ensued, in which four sets of mental cogs could be heard positively whirring on matters from ‘how do we tell him?’ to ‘what did I say?’ to ‘I could kill him right now and make it look like he choked on an orange seg-’

“Mikko?”

The Grand Vizier shifted his feat uneasily. “Holiness, that is perhaps not quite the course of action I’d recommend – though I commend your swift thinking.” It was true. He’d got much better at giving orders – he just needed to start giving the right ones.

“Wouldn’t anything more forceful be something of an overreaction?”

“Absolutely. But Holiness, I fear we may have misinformed you of the situation. It is not the King that it would be optimal for you to stand by at this point – but the nobles.”

“Mikko, in case you hadn’t noticed, I am a king. I was the Chair of an international monarchist federation. We have always –”

“Yes, Holiness, I’m aware. But the King’s actions are without precedent, irresponsible and smack of tyranny – the bad sort of tyranny, I mean. But more than that, Holiness, Altanari history demonstrates that the nobles have always been able to withstand attempts like this. The King doesn’t know what he’s doing, and if he loses – which he will – then we would have pledged allegiance against the new power behind, and most probably on, the throne in Altanar. It would hardly be a blow for Gruenberg’s international stature. If we can assist in peaceful resolution of the impending conflict, then we will have demonstrated that we stand behind international stability, rather than the anarchy this would wreak.”

The Sultan had ceased listening, instead watching the birds outside turning slow, predatory arcs in the clear, open sky. The Grand Vizier came to a pause.

“We have no embassy in Altanar.”

“No, Holiness.”

“Well, then, I’d like you to do the following: establish one.”

“Holiness…”

“Emphasise our neutrality in the matter, and if either party approaches our officials, have them receive them. We have…‘sources on the ground’?”

“Yes,” answered the uniformed officer, quickly adding, “Holiness.”

“Get more. Find out what’s going on, what’s going to go on, and compile a comprehensive report for me. And see about establishing contacts with the nobles; I imagine only the King will come through the embassy.” He looked straight into his Grand Vizier’s eyes. “Mikko, I trust your counsel, but before I pick sides, I’d like to know more. That’s if we’re to pick sides at all.”

The men shuffled out. The Grand Vizier snapped brief instructions to both of them, and marched off imperiously, long purple robes flailing impressively in his wake. The Sultan stayed sitting upright in is bed, and picked up his book again.

‘We have now recognised the necessity to the mental well-being of mankind (on which all their other well-being depends) of firm regulation of opinion and the absolute restriction of expression of opinions deviating from…’

King Olen International Airport, Ael Khalas

Once the officer from Ausserland had left, the Subministry of Immigration, Naturalization and Citizenship (SINC) agent who had been manning the customs desk gave a look to his supervisor. "Better let the people at State know about our new arrival," the supervisor said. The agent nodded, and walked into the airport SINC office to make the call.

---

Royal Ministries Building, Downtown Ael Khalas

"Yes, I understand. Thank you for calling me. We'll keep it under advisement," Minister of State Nelron Khiskithy said, hanging up the phone. "Dare I ask what that was all about?" his assistant, Deputy Minister Keran Meranas asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Apparently, we have a new arrival from Ausserland. A military attache of some sort," Khiskithy replied.

"Are they really an attache, or just a visitor?" Meranas asked.

"Hmm, not sure. I'm sure if the Ausserlanders think it's something we need to know about, they'll tell us. In the meantime, we'll just observe the situation," Khiskithy replied.

---

Village of Nalitar, just outside of Nalioka

A jet black limousine pulled up to the front of the small stone fort at the center of the village, rounding the circular drive. The two Aranathan Guards at the entrance stood at attention, as Lord Merak Krytellin exited the vehicle. They saluted stiffly, as a servant greeted the local noble and escorted him and another man inside.

The two men were walked to the garden at the center of the fort. Once a military outpost for the rulers of the Kingdom of Nalioka, the building had long since been given to the House of Aranathas by House Krytellin. It now served as a sort of vacation house for the Aranathas family.

In the garden, an old, balding man stooped down to pick some weeds away from a rosebed. He wore faded military fatigues. They had no rank or insignia, save for a small name patch that read "Aranathas, C." The man rose slowly as Krytellin and his guest walked into the garden. "Merak! Good to see you. I don't get visitors often these days," Cianar smiled, dusting off his hands.

Lord Krytellin smiled also. "It's always good to see you, Cianar. I hope you don't mind that I brought someone with me?"

"Nonsense! Any friend of yours is welcome in my house. I'm Cianar, but I bet you already knew that," Altanar's former King said, extending his hand to the visitor.

"I am Geril Kanelar, a retainer for Lord Krytellin. I am honored to meet you, your Majesty," the guest said, shaking Cianar's hand.

"Thank you, and welcome to Nalitar House, Geril," Cianar said. "Would the two of you like to sit down for a drink?"

"I wish I could, but unfortunately, I have business in the capital. Your son is stirring my colleagues up a bit, so I have to soothe the other nobles and make them behave," Krytellin said.

"Ah, yes, the speech," Cianar said. "I figured that might bother some of them a bit, but hopefully you can make them see it's all for the best. Your family has always been loyal to the Kingdom, so I am sure your words will carry weight."

"I certainly hope so," Krytellin smiled. "I stopped on the way, though, because I've been a bit worried about you. I know that you have plenty of help here, and that Aelkyn checks on you as often as he can, but I feel remiss in not offering more help. You are a guest in my province, after all. That's why I brought Geril here with me. I was planning to assign him to Nalitar House as a retainer in order to help out with whatever you may need. If you don't need the help, though, we can always find work for him at my house!" Take the bait, you old dotard, Krytellin silently prayed.

"That's very thoughtful of you, Merik," Cianar said. "Are you sure he isn't needed at your house, though? I don't want to take him away from his duties."

"Not at all. And it would be a boon to Geril as well...his family lives here in Nalitar, so he'd be able to see them a lot more than he can from Nalioka," Krytellin said.

"Well, in that case, he is more than welcome here," Cianar smiled. "If nothing else, he can help me pick these damnable weeds!"

"That he can, that he can," Krytellin laughed. He'll help us kill a lot more than weeds.

As the King sits down to dinner, he notices the edge of a piece of greenish paper sticking out from under his plate. It's a small, folded note, written in a rather odd handwriting.

Leon's watching. If it gets near the fan, holler.

The Aerie, Altanar's royal palace
After reading the note, Aelkyn quickly palmed it, placing it in a pocket. Only Queen Melika noticed the gesture. "What was that, love?" she whispered to him. "I'll tell you later...you'll think it's clever," Aelkyn whispered, chuckling under his breath. Now how in the seven heavens and hells did they slip that in here?

---

Nalitar House

"Did the background check on that new guy...Geril...come back yet?" the Aranathan Guards base commander asked his Security Officer. "Yep, he shows up as clean. No violations, no criminal history to speak of...he's been a servant for House Krytellin since he was 16, so he seems okay," the officer replied. "Alright then...his Majesty Cianar wants him here, so just send a note to the King's office letting them know about the assignment," the commander said, mentally already forgetting about the new guy.

---

Aranathan Guards command office, the Aerie

The report about the new servant assigned to Nalitar House arrived, to be filed along with the usual list of daily updates.

Eistar Kappmaan, Imperial Ambassador to Altanar, swore loudly.

"First, the goddamn Directorate cuts my staff in two, now, they want to triple it! Why can't they make up their minds!"

A tall, thin woman with white hair smiled tautly.

"Eistar, the Directorate is the least of your concerns. I know I'm crazy for saying that, but there are definitely more pressing issues."

Kappmaan looked up and glared at her. Merideth was the best assistant he could have asked for, but sometimes her plainspoken nature and lack of decorum grated.

"Well then, Meredith, enlighten me. What could possibly be more important than the Directorate and their usually schizophrenic directions?"

"The unrest in Altanar. Haven't you been reading the papers? You don't get out of the office to hear what the Altanari people are talking about."

"That's because I'm not Altanari, Merideth."

"Of course you aren't. I'm not either, but it's good business. The people are bracing, it seems. Rebellion? War? Assasination? I don't know. That's the job of the analysts in the basement."

Kappmaan removed his spectacles and rubbed his eyes. He sank into his highbacked chair.

"Merideth, schedule an appointment with the Aushedar. We need to be briefed on the Altanari goings-on, and the scuttle from the countryside. I can't make any recommendations on behalf of the Directorate without intel."

She nodded, taking down her notes on a datapad. Even though the Empire was a space-faring, highly developed nation, and very proud of it's might and prowess, the embassies made care to keep their advancement on the down-low.

"Yes, sir. I'll get in touch with our government contact, try to get the official line and see what we can do to help. We probably can't count on much support from the Directorate without first giving them some information."

"Yes, yes. Go to it." Kappmaan waved dismissively, and Merideth exited the office. He raised out of the chair and walked over to a bookshelf, took a glass out of a cabinet and poured himself a glass of scotch. Looking out the embassy window, he contemplated the streets of Ael Khalas.

First: Observe. Rule one is to know what is going on... and hope you can figure it out before things go wrong...

Legislature Square, Ael Khalas

On the Monday following the King's announcement, the 17 nobles that made up the former Royal Senate lined up in front of the legislature building to give their response to the King's decision. A spokesperson for them gave a prepared speech: "While the King may think he has the support of the Assembly, that alone does not permit him to simply remove one half of our bicameral Legislature. The King's actions are patently unconstitutional. It states clearly in the Constitution of 1936 that there shall be a bicameral legislature, with us making up half of that. We demand that the State Court rule immediately on this egregious violation of Constitutional law by our supposedly constitutional monarch. Furthermore, we refuse to accept the King's power grab. We will give the King until the end of this week to reverse this decision."

The speech was loudly heckled by protestors from the Modern Democratic Party, as well as various citizens who stopped to heckle. As the spokesperson ended his speech, a tomato flew through the air and landed squarely on his forehead. A retainer for one of the nobles responded by punching the tomato-thrower in the face. The situation quickly degenerated into a melee between protestors and bodyguards. As the nobles were hastily ushered out of the area, Ael Khalas municipal police and Royal Police from the city's garrison quickly moved in. The melee was soon ended, with 32 people being arrested and seven sent to area hospitals.

[Ambassador Zwedvek and Major Ee are relaxing in the Ausserland embassy with a couple (or so) bottles of Olde Frothingslosh.]

Zwedvek: "Well, the King got the note."

Ee: "Yeah, your guy in there's pretty good. But do you think he got the note?"

"Yeah, he's pretty sharp. And I'm sure the MOS people told him about your coming here."

"Uh huh. And the nobles' mole in the MOS undoubtedly told them."

"Sure hope so. Lot of trouble for nothing if he -- or she -- didn't."

"Did your guy get the motor scooter?"

"Yep. It's in the garage."

"Good. That bit oughta be fun."

[They chortle. Dwarves and ulrheks tend to chortle a lot.]

Lord Pyrellis' house, Ael Khalas

After the melee in Legislature Square, the nobles gathered to discuss their plans.

"I can't believe those rabble dared to throw tomatoes at us! And that heckling! The next time that happens, I'll have my guards run them off, no matter what the police say. That is simply intolerable," Lord Pyrellis grumbled. The other nobles nodded, several of them picking bits of tomato off their expensive suits. "Do you think that the State Court will actually address this, or will they defer to the King?" Lady Tarabesh asked.

"Even if they defer it, that still plays into our hands. The Constitution - the one Aelkyn's cursed ancestor wrote, no less - is very clear. If they choose to ignore it, we can make that the issue," Lord Sarkas said. "Either way, Aelkyn is stuck."

A retainer walked into the room. "Excuse me for interrupting, lords, but the King is about to give a speech on ART." "Very well, turn it on, then," Lord Pyrellis snapped distractedly, still removing vegetable matter from his suit.

The retainer walked over to the television mounted to a wall, and turned it to Altanari Royal Television. The King's speech had already started. "....and I deplore the violence that took place today in Legislature Square. No further such outbreaks of violence or unrest can be tolerated. It is incumbent upon all of us, as Altanari, to treat each other with respect and tolerance. While we understand why many people are upset, it is the responsibility of this government to maintain order and protect the people from harm. We ask everyone in the nation to help us with this duty, and refrain from any displays of violence or civil disorder."

"In response to the demands made today by the nobles, I reaffirm that it is, in fact, my right under the Altanari Constitution of 1936 to alter or rescind the establishment of legislative bodies as needed. I refer to Article 11, Clause 6, Section 3, which states that 'in times of emergency or extreme need, the Sovereign may make changes to the structure of the government as needed. This shall include the judicial, legislative, military and law enforcement institutions of this government, and shall be allowed to be enacted by Royal Decree. In situations where the need for such changes is disputed, the State Court shall serve as the ultimate and final arbiter of such changes.' As I am confident that this situation meets that standard, I welcome the review of the State Court and announce that this shall be judged by the Court, beginning in one week's time."

"This is a time of great upheaval for our nation. However, it is also a time of great opportunity. We have the chance to bring Altanar into a state of greater democracy and freedom for all its peoples. I urge all of you, as fellow Altanari, to greet this opportunity with patience, tolerance and optimism. Thank you, and may all deities continue to bless Altanar."

Lord Pyrellis turned off the television. "If that idiot Aelkyn thinks the State Court is going to define this as an emergency situation, he's gone insane! We'll have a field day with that when our lawyers get done with it."

"And what about our plans in the meantime?" Lady Tarabesh asked.

"Already proceeding according to plan. My agent is now in Cianar's household. It won't be long now," Lord Krytellin said, smirking.

"We have another problem. Certain other nations seem to be sniffing around the Aerie a bit more than I like," Lord Sarkas growled. "What nations do you refer to?" Lord Pyrellis said, slightly alarmed. "I've been informed by my agents that the Ausserlanders are in some form of contact with the King. They may throw their weight behind him. There is also some increased activity at other embassies. We cannot discount the possibility that other nations, ones friendly to the King's regime, might intervene."

"Let them, if they want. They won't be able to prevent what we plan to do. When we have Aelkyn and Melika gone, and a 'legitimate' king on the throne, no other nation will be able to intervene unless they want a war with us. We'll see how eager they are to stick their noses in then," Lord Pyrellis responded.

Meanwhile, in the Palentine embassy, Ambassador Winslow sat on his table. All the folderol that was going around him in Altanar, seemed not to affect him much. He sat and smiled. The low level Altanar diplomat who was tasked with entering the embassy and seeing to the dusting or other needs of Winslow, was usually creeped out.

"Damn, thats one strange looking stuffed animal! And to think the Palentine people give it some strange significance. I think they've been in the cold too long. Geez, that smile creeps me out.", the low level and nameless functionary thought.

He continues with his work, and had his back turned, when Winslow twitched a bit...or maybe that was a trick of the light.

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f235/HoratioSulla/shirow/winslow.jpg

As the morning rush hour ends, a very short and rather stocky figure emerges from the Ausserland embassy compound riding a blaze orange motor scooter. She's dressed "inconspicuously" in black tights, a black sweat shirt, a black Stetson, shades, and combat boots. The scooter looks new, but there seems to be something wrong with the muffler. It sounds more like a badly tuned hog than a scooter.

At first, she seems to be riding aimlessly through the city streets. But then "interested observers" note that she drives several times through Legislature Square and makes several circuits of the Royal Palace grounds. She stops several times in those areas to blow her nose. Must have allergies. One sharp-eyed watcher spots a small metal box in the folds of the handkerchief. Looks something like a cell phone, but he can't be sure.

After an hour or so of this, the scooter rider heads back to the embassy.

The evening news broadcasts on Altanar's domestic TV and radio networks focus on the "near riot" in Legislative Square. The networks try to interview the nobles, but get nothing more than a bland re-iteration of their remarks from their spokesperson. The networks do, however, get a response from the chairman of the Modern Democratic Party, an Assemblyman from Lukisha Province named Heran Naskaragh, who blames the nobles' "hired thugs" for starting the melee. Naskaragh announces that the MDP is forming an alliance with the Green Altanar Movement, the bloc of independent legislators and several smaller parties that aren't currently represented in the Assembly, such as the Altanari Communist Party. They call themselves the Forces United for New Opportunities Bringing Liberty and Ending Suppression (FUNOBLES).

Naskaragh is quoted: "Our goal is simple: the nobles must go. They can hang on as some kind of ceremonial ornament for tourists to gawk at if they want, but the days of them exerting any kind of real power in Altanar are over. And if King Aelkyn expects our continued support, he needs to not lose nerve and follow through with his plans." Naskaragh announces that starting the next day, FUNOBLES will form a human chain around the Legislative Building, and will not end their protest until the State Court makes their ruling on the King's plans.

---

The Aerie

"Well, that's just what we need," King Aelkyn sighed wearily, having just watched Naskaragh's speech. "Do you want us to do anything about it?" his Defense Minister asked. "Just make sure there are plenty of police down there to make sure nothing gets out of hand. Other than that, don't hinder the protestors. Leave them alone unless they start breaking the law." The Defense Minister nodded and left the room.

---

Encrypted telephone communication

"Has the next phase begun?" asked the caller from Celavan. "The purchase has been made, the project is on track to be built as scheduled," the receiver in Ael Khalas responded, hanging up.

The invitations were gaudy, ostentatious, totally over the top. Precisely the sort of thing that would normally make the trip from letterbox to wastepaper basket without even being opened.

Nonetheless, a bored social secretary opened one. A bored aristocrat, informed of its existence, dismissed it out of hand -- "Really, dear lad, whatever were you thinking of? International President of the Guild of Harpers? Sounds like some sort of organised labour type. I don't want to criticise, dear, but are you sure you're really up to this job?"

But it was amusing, wasn't it, that someone like that should send an invitation to someone like us -- "... from a trade unionist! No, Verusha, really, darling, it was!" -- especially when it became evident that some of the Someones had missed out. And, as the little anecdote tinkled and giggled its way through Ael Khalas, the word "select" began to attach itself to its tail. Then "exclusive" joined on.

There was uneasiness. Of course, when one did receive one's invitation -- wasn't the mail terrible lately? -- one would laughingly refuse it, but still ... By little social bribes and blackmails, the RSVP number was obtained; but that number, contacted, was politely but firmly dismissive. No, Fenlord na-Tholiou's regrets, but he desired that attendance be strictly by invitation only. No, there had been no mistakes. Yes, it was unfortunate, wasn't it. No, the speaker felt no need for theatre tickets, a small gratuity, a rather good watch.

Suddenly a number of people at the bottom of the A-list -- the A(b)-listers, perhaps -- discovered that, though of course they had intended to go to the party (just for a joke), they were urgently required out of town on that date. Equally suddenly, a surprisingly large number of A+++-listers found that they did have an evening free, after all.
_________________________________________________

Teo found he'd been rostered to cover it.

"Why not?" the features editor of the Ael Khalas Union-Sun grinned. "It'll give you a chance to meet some of the movers and shakers round here. Dunno why they sent us an invitation, but let's see what comes of it."

"Dammit, I'm a reporter!" Teo felt he had to protest; it was what his character would have said. "I wasn't hired to do social!"

"Yeah, right. You were hired because people like you are scarce on the ground -- at the moment," she told him. "Okay, we're not as far ahead as some places, there aren't many journos here who can do the whole media-centre thing yet. Note, yet."

Teo succumbed. Truth to tell, he hadn't been able to believe his luck in getting a job at the national daily. Apparently Altanar was just on the crux of the big communications change, the one that had media junkies insane with excitement and media companies desperate for anyone with training.

Training? It was shorthand for something more like a circus act: he was print journalist, radio reporter, television newsman and citizen-journo-cum-blogger, able to get a feed out in seconds and back it up with video, but still knowing when and how to sift information, check sources, follow leads. Teo was left gaspingly grateful for his Harper experiences.

And even more grateful that he knew what he was doing with the media's new tools, because it was only thing he did know in this confusing place.

Djem Mag was not a happy man. He had been ordered all the way to Altanar from his post in the Empire, with very specific instructions not to make contact with Ambassador Kappmaan. In fact, he wasn't to allow any other Imperial officials know he was there- the only people that needed to know anything about him already did.

Mag looked out the window of his car at the passing Altanari countryside. A sign indicated that they were approaching Nalitar, which, according to the intel reports, was the home of the abdicated Altanari king Cianar.

Mag coughed lightly. He chastised himself for being angry about the assigment. He did work for the Eye of the Emperor, after all, and life in the Agundan sometimes didn't make sense. Officially, he was an assistant to a magistrate on Ben Ral, but his job as Doyin was strictly secret.

The car pulled up to the estate of the old ruler, and Mag's driver stepped out of the car, opened the door, and the Imperial stepped out. Brushing the lapels of his coat, he lifted his briefcase and walked to the guards.

"Gentlemen. My name is Olen Ceberath, aide for Jaris Krytellin." He pulled some official-looking papers from his case and brandished them. They were forgeries, of course, but the guards would never know.

"I'm here to speak with His Excellency Lord Aranathas on Ambassador Krytellin's behalf"

[The immigration officer at the Ael Khalas airport had never had anything against Ausserlanders. The ones he'd met had always seemed nice enough. But he was starting to wish they'd all just stay home. The other day, there was the dwarf girl in the army uniform. Now these two. They seemed nice enough, too. In fact, they both had big grins on their faces. But combined with the fact that they both seemed to be wearing pistol belts, that was more unsettling than reassuring. The dwarf in the leather jacket did all the talking. The girl with the eyepatch just grinned.]

http://h1.ripway.com/reclaim/Harmony_and_Herb.gif

"Now, let me make sure I've got this straight.... You're both interior decorators?"

"Yep. Harmony and Herb: Distinctive Decor for Discerning Diplomats. That's Harmony. I'm Herb."

"But you have diplomatic passports?"

"Yep. We sorta specialize in interior decorating embassies, so they figured we oughta have 'em."

"And those are diplomatic pouches?"

"Yep. They don't want people stealing our designs to use in somebody else's embassies or nothing. Get what I mean? We got courier orders right here."

"Yes, yes, I've looked at those. And you're going to be redecorating the Ausserland embassy, is that right?"

"Yep. That and some stuff at the Royal Palace, too."

"Uh... well... enjoy your stay in Altanar."

[As the two left the desk, the girl winked at the immigration officer. He'd never realized how disconcerting it could be to be winked at by a one-eyed girl. You couldn't tell if she was winking or blinking. He decided he should go lie down for a while... after he called the Ministry of State.]

(OOC to A-A: Jaris isn't the lord, Merak is. Jaris is his son and the UN ambassador, who is on his way back to Altanar. Technically, your guy could be coming from Jaris instead of Merak, but that might raise a few eyebrows. We can play that out if you like, though, or just change it.)

IC:

Royal Ministries Building, Downtown Ael Khalas

"Yes, I understand. Yes, I know someone else from Ausserland arrived recently. No, it's not a problem...Ausserland is a friendly state, and we shall treat their diplomats accordingly. We'll keep watching the situation. Yes, thank you," Nelron Khiskithy said, hanging up. Keran Meranas didn't even say anything this time - the raised eyebrow was greeted with a nod from Khiskithy.

Royal Hall of Justice, Downtown Ael Khalas

On the front steps of the Hall, Manar Kenae, Chief Justice of the Altanari State Court, read a statement: "We have received the petitions of King Aelkyn and the noble families, respectively, on the matter of the abolishment of the Royal Senate and the removal of governing and taxation rights from the noble families. In accordance with our constitutional responsibility as arbiter of these matters, we shall hear their arguments and render a decision. Due to the instability this issue has the potential to cause, we are moving this particular case up the docket. We shall begin hearing preliminary arguments tomorrow."

---

As word of the invitation from the "International President of the Guild of Harpers" circulated among the noble and wealthy families in Ael Khalas, the merits of going to said event were debated. While no one even knew what the "Guild of Harpers" was, the mere fact that so many highly placed people had been invited was a powerful pull.

"After all, if they are all going, it has to be something important, right?" Lord Ankrina remarked to his wife. "It must be," his wife agreed. "And we can't be the only ones who don't go. What would everyone else think?"

16 similar conversations went on at 16 mansions of the noble families in Altanar's capital city. Soon enough, RSVPs would confirm the attendance of those families.

OOC:

Since this seems to have taken off nicely, could I suggest we have a quick summary list of who's who among the Altanari folks -- and an indication of which side of this dust-up they are (or may be) on? Might help me keep from getting even more confused than I normally am. ;)

OOC: excellent idea, Auss....I should've thought of that sooner. Without further ado, then:

The Players

The Government
King Aelkyn - ruler of Altanar, head of house Aranathas and Lord of Ael Khalas Province
Queen Melika - queen of Altanar, wife of Aelkyn and High Clan Leader of the United Clans of Argalia Province
Pargal Khaskereth - Minister of Defense and member of the High Council
Lelia Drekeval - Minister of Education and member of the High Council
Dala Crevenarath - Minister of Social Welfare and member of the High Council
Norgan Sheloran - Minister of Justice and member of the High Council
Nelron Khiskithy - Minister of State and member of the High Council
Keran Meranas - Khiskithy's assistant and official delegate to the foreign embassies in Altanar
Edan Morelevey - Minister of Infrastructure and member of the High Council
Warca Simexpa - Royal Treasurer and member of the High Council
Malek Veriaka - Royal Police Commissioner
Manar Kenae - Chief Justice of the Altanari State Court

The Nobles
Lord Jovan Pyrellis - Lord of Celavan Province, chief opponent of the King
Lord Markesh Ankrina - Lord of Astrival Province, supporter of Akamian independence
Lady Girella Tarabesh - Lady of Marr Province, prodigious funder of politicians and pressure groups opposed to the government
Lord Werik Grengath - Lord of Nara Province, supports Akamian independence groups
Lord Valen Sarkas - Lord of Po Province, former General in the Altanari Army
Lord Merak Krytellin - Lord of Nalioka Province, friend to the Aranathas family, but secretly opposed to the current king
Geril Kanelar - retainer to Merak Krytellin, currently serving in the household of Cianar Aranathas
Houses Amarellis, Karaketh, Belevora, Kankeld, Melreth, Haraspar and Gnarageth - the other noble Houses that are opposed to the King (their leaders should be mostly peripheral to the plot)

The Wild Cards (uncertain loyalties)
Lord Cianar Aranathas - former King of Altanar, father to the current King
Heran Naskaragh - Chairman of the opposition Modern Democratic Party (MDP) and head of the FUNOBLES alliance of parties opposed to the nobles
Jaris Krytellin - son of Lord Merak Krytellin, current UN Ambassador and member of the MDP
Akama Berialas - President of the majority Altanari Unity Party (AUP), which typically supports the King but is wary of changing the traditional structures of Altanar
Ikinar Inimena - Lord of Isilkara Province, former lover of King Aelkyn, currently involved with Makar Ankrina, the son of Lord Ankrina of Astrival; he is aware of the plot against the King, but is fence-sitting at the moment
Melakis IV, High Priest of Tela - the head of the Church of Altanar, based in Altana Hol; technically considered a noble and aware of the plot, but also fence-sitting
Sinis Kerilais - self-styled "General" and head of the Akamian Self-Determination Front (ASDF)
....and the rest of Altanar's 600,000,000+ population, who will no doubt take various sides as things unfold.

As more of the plot unfolds, I may add to this list.

OOC: Shoot! I knew I probably got that wrong- I confused Jaris Krytellin with Jevo Telovar for a second, Krioval's man. I'll edit it. And yes, he is coming "On Jaris' Orders," but we'll se how that plays out if Jaris is returning from the UN.

IC:

Bashar Kappmaan paced the floor while an impassionate man in a military jacket regarded his black leather gloves with casual interest.

"What do you mean, you can't tell me? I'm the highest ranking officer here- I need to know what's going on, or it's my head. We have no idea how things are going to turn out here in Altanar- we may well face a siege if things turn south. Tell me what the hell is going on."

The man looked up at the agitated diplomat and smirked.

"Please. You know full well that I don't have to tell you a damn thing, so cut the bullshit. I know exactly what the stakes are, but my job is to observe the situation and report back to the Eye. What the Eye tells me is strictly secret- Emperor's Word secret, even. Don't pressure me- if it's pertinent, we'll let you know.

Kappmaan fumed. "Bullshit! This is the sort of bullshit that makes me want to go back into retirement, the same bullshit that fucked up our embassy in Zatigao. The Eye won't unclench their fingers and give us some rope to work with. Well, my report is going straight to the Old Man, and he'll make the calls."

There was silence as the ambassador stared daggers at the man, who in turn just smirked.

"Do what you want. As Aushedar, I'm only here to observe and follow orders. I do, however, have some information from my superiors in the UN Offices- rumours indicate that the Altanari Ambassador, Jaris Krytellin, might be returning to Altanar. We're not sure yet, things on that end are still a bit buggy. But if the King is calling back his ambassadors, that might not bode well for the state of the country. Other than that, I have nothing for you."

Kappmaan frowned, grabbed the datapad that had been slid toward him on the table, and left the room. The Aushedar leaned back in his chair and chuckled.

Nalitar House

The Aranathan Guards at the gate inspected Ceberath's papers. "These seem to be in order. Very well. Follow me," the commander said.

The commander escorted Ceberath to a small kitchen nook at the back of the house. A balding, gray-haired and mustached man in civilian clothes sat at a small wooden table, chatting amiably with a much younger man with long, black hair, dressed in the green-and-gold livery of House Aranathas. A cook and a maid chatted with them as well, while preparing a snack.

"Lord Aranathas, you have a visitor," the Aranathan Guard said, respectfully bowing towards the older man. The younger man eyed the arrival with keen-eyed interest, as the older man stood up to greet Ceberath. "A visitor, eh? And who might you be, sir?" Cianar said in a strong voice belying his age.

Mag/Ceberath bowed slightly.

"Your Majesty, I am here on behalf of Jaris Krytellin, the King's Ambassador to the United Nations. I know it's odd that Jaris would send someone to see you so soon after his father came to visit, but he thought that this was such a wonderful opportunity he couldn't pass it up. One of the ambassadors from a UN member has given an official invitation to visit their nation- specifically, the Great Star Empire of Allech-Atreus."

He opened his briefcase an pulled out several travel papers and invitation letters. dOing his best to seem excited about being in the presence of the former king, he talked a little too fast and smiled a little too much.

"I confess I don't know much about it, but from the travel vouchers the place looks gorgeous. Apparently, the Empress Dowager of Allech-Atreus wants to get to know more about her son's diplomatic allies, and desired people of great importance to visit the Empire at leisure. According to the Imperials, the knew that your Majesty was retired, and thought it might be welcome to take a trip out of the country."

Mag/Ceberath smiled and frowned at all the appropriate times through his entire lie. He was an expert at this sort of thing, but the old king was clearly no fool. He'd have to be extra-careful. Just watch faux-anxiousness... make the maid smile... make the King feel like he was a nervous aide.

Ruffling in his cae, he fished out some pictures from the Empire. (http://uf.julianbh.com/viewtopic.php?t=26)

"Ah, here they are. Some of the places look really gorgeous. Everything's covered by the Imperial government, too. State trip, honors, everything. If your Majesty doesn't mind me saying so, I would jump at the chance to go."

OOC: Let me know if you want me to back down a bit. It's so nice to get so good roleplay in!

OOC: no, keep it up, this is good stuff :)

IC:

Cianar looked over the papers. "It seems lovely...I've heard a little bit about this place, although I don't hear as much from the diplomatic circles these days...I'm a bit out of the loop, being retired and all," he grinned. "As much as I'd love to go, wouldn't it be more appropriate to send someone who's currently active in the government for our first state visit to Allech-Atreus?"

Nondescript warehouse building, Industrial Sector, Southeast Ael Khalas

"You're sure none of you were followed?" Lord Pyrellis asked the others seated around the table. Lord Ankrina, Lord Grengath and Lord Inimena only nodded in response, their faces conveying almost timid expressions, as if they felt silent eyes of some Royal Police investigator or Royal Intelligence agent already on them.

"Wow, you all look like someone just put a knife to your necks," the other person seated at the table laughed. "It's almost funny. I never expected such high and mighty nobles to be such chickensh-"

"Oh, shut up already," Lord Pyrellis snapped irritably. "Can we just get on with this?"

Sinis Kerilais, the "General" and leader of the Akamian Self-Determination Front, laughed in Pyrellis' face. "Fine, have it your way. You have my proposal in front of you. Are you in or not?"

Lord Grengath grimaced. "Of course we're in. This situation gives us the chance to finally get Akamia from out of Altanar's clutches - and under our control, as it should be."

"Very well," Kerilais said. "Then we're agreed? Once Aelkyn and Melika are dead, and Cianar propped up on the throne, then we'll get him to 'approve' Akamian independence, with you three ruling Akamia, and myself and my followers as the Akamian army?"

"Yes, that is the plan," Pyrellis said. "But can you handle your end of the deal? Your.... 'followers' have tried to take Aelkyn out twice already, and failed miserably both times, as I recall."

Kerilais snarled. "We won't fail this time. And it will look like an accident, just as we need it to."

"What about the Altanari nobles?" Ankrina asked. "They won't go along with our plan, so what do we do about them?"

"There will naturally be unrest during the period between the Royal Family's deaths and Cianar being placed back on the throne. My people will do everything we can to...amplify that unrest. Once we do, it'll provide perfect cover to take out the Altanari nobles, under the guise of 'civil unrest'. We can even make it look like the opposition was responsible. That idiotic 'FUNOBLES' group should do nicely as a patsy," Kerilais laughed.

"Good. then let's get started," Pyrellis said.

Cianar looked over the papers. "It seems lovely...I've heard a little bit about this place, although I don't hear as much from the diplomatic circles these days...I'm a bit out of the loop, being retired and all," he grinned. "As much as I'd love to go, wouldn't it be more appropriate to send someone who's currently active in the government for our first state visit to Allech-Atreus?"

Mag/Ceberath nodded.

"Yes, that's what Jaris- I mean, Ambassador Krytellin, said. But, apparently the Allech-Atrean Emperor's mother was specifically looking for nobility, royalty, and other symbolic people. It seems to be mostly a show-tour. Invitations were also sent to some people from Ariddia and Karmicaria, although I don't know anything else about that."

He quickly looked at his watch. It was later in the day... and his driver had already headed out. Conveniently planned. Visibly swallowing and thinking to himself, he looked up to the former King.

"Ah- Your Majesty... I hope I'm not being too presumptuous... but may I request lodging for the night? My driver has already gone back to the city, and I fear it's too late for him to return. I can sleep in servant's quarters, or wherever is most convenient for you. I hope it's not too much of a disservice- I can call out my driver."

[The two new arrivals from Ausserland are greeted at the embassy by Ambassador Zwedvek and Major Ee.]

Ambassador Zwedvek: "Hey, Colonel Herb! How's life in the AoA [Army of Ausserland]?"

Colonel Herbert Hardblade: "Just fine, Truddy. Defending our shores from the ravaging hordes of the terminally clueless, as usual."

Ambassador Zwedvek: [Grinning] "But Ausserland's a landlocked country."

Col. Hardblade: [Grinning back at her] "Yeah. Makes it sorta easy."

Major Ee: "So they let you out of S&I [the Ministry for Security & Intelligence] for a change, huh, Harmony?"

Ms. Harmony Perun: "Yeah. Nice to get out and see some of the world once in a while."

Maj. Ee: "I can't believe this interior decorator schtick!"

Col. Hardblade: [Chortles] "Yep. Nobody else will either. That's the whole point, I guess."

Amb. Zwedvek: "I can just hear the noble nitwits now: 'They can't really be that stupid, can they?'"

Ms. Perun: "Elena said, 'That's about as good a cover as a string bikini!'"

[Everybody laughs.]

Maj. Ee: "So bring me up to speed on how this interior decorating stuff's supposed to work. I didn't have time to get read in on that before I left.

Ms. Perun: "OK. Here's the legend: The Queen thinks the royal apartments need redecorated. Truddy volunteers our services. We have to do a preliminary survey and draw up plans. Herb does it daytime. I have to work nights because bright lights bother my eye. We do round-the-clock coverage."

Maj. Ee. "Neat! Do we do the approach overt or covert?"

Amb. Zwedvek: "Sammy left that up to me. I'm gonna do it overt. The King's pretty sharp. He'll tip to it. And I don't want to tap my inside guy any more than I have to."

Ms. Perun: "Good."

Cianar smiled at Ceberath. "It's not a presumption at all! An old man like me seldom gets visitors - and a former king even less often. A former king is about as much use as a spare umbrella in the desert. You're welcome to stay...you can have dinner with us. Oh, I'm being quite rude, I haven't introduced you to my new assistant. This is Geril Kanelar," Cianar said, gesturing to the younger man sitting at the table. "You both have something in common - you work for House Krytellin."

Kanelar nodded politely to Ceberath. "A pleasure to meet you, sir. I hadn't heard that Jaris had a new aide." The smile on Kanelar's face did not extend to his eyes, which remained keenly fixed on Ceberath.

"Oh, just an oversight, I'm sure," Cianar said. "As it was in my time, government is still most efficient at being inefficient. I've heard that Jaris is coming back home to meet with his father - I'm sure he'll tell us all about it then. Well, I am going to get ready for dinner. I hope you'll join us, Olen. We can sort out the plans for the trip to Allech-Atreus. Geril, would you be so kind as to help me get ready?"

"Of course, sir," Geril said smoothly, escorting Cianar out of the room. When Geril had his back turned, Cianar made a gesture towards Ceberath that could well have been a wink. It was so quick, though, that it could have just as easily been a twitch.

Hall of the Pantheon, Altana Hol

Melakis IV, High Priest of Tela, stared out the window of the tower conference room. The sprawling monastery that served as the home of Altanar's indigenous religion caught his eye, nestled into the high ridges of the Eagle's Backbone Mountains. Centuries of faith, all on the line here, Melakis thought. In the Pantheon's name, don't let me screw this up now. Help me make the right choice. With that thought, he turned around decisively to face his Council of the Church.

"You all are, no doubt, aware of the power struggle going on between the King and the nobles," Melakis said. The robed and cloaked figures seated around the table all nodded. "There is something else," Melakis said in a lower voice. "Something which you have not been aware of until now." He took a deep breath, then: "As the 'noble' in charge of Altana Hol Province, I was recently asked to attend a meeting of the other nobles. They made me aware of a plan they have and asked for the support of the Church. They plan to remove the King and Queen from power, and replace them with the King's father."

There was stunned silence around the table, then a flurry of arguing voices. "There is no way the Holy Church can support such a plot!" the Archpriest of Nalioka yelled. "We should report this plot to the King immediately! It would be a stain on our faith to do otherwise!"

"And what if we do that, and the nobles still succeed with their plan? Then we shall have incurred their wrath for betraying them. Where is the Church left then?" the Archpriest of Staria rebutted.

"I do not like the direction the King is taking the country," the Archpriest of Lukisha yelled. "Allowing all these foreign religions in has diminished the True Faith. His reckless immigration policies could well leave our Church a minority in its own country, if not checked! I say we should support the nobles. They have always supported the True Faith, unlike Aelkyn."

"The introduction of these competing religions is a test from the gods and the goddesses. If we are pure of heart, and follow the Way, the Church will always triumph in the end. And overthrowing our liege lord and King is not an act that is pure of heart." the Archbishop of Kyrinia said calmly.

Melakis allowed the arguing to continue for a while, then raised his hand for silence. "We cannot make a decision of this import immediately. We shall watch the situation, observe both sides, and let the Pantheon guide our decision. This is my ruling for now, in the name of the Church. I am invoking the Tenet of Silence on this matter. None of you may divulge your knowledge of these events to either side, under penalty of excommunication and banishment to the seven hells, until we make the final decision on which side to support."

The cloaked figures raised their hands to the image of the sun mounted to the far wall, showing their assent.

Cianar smiled at Ceberath. "It's not a presumption at all! An old man like me seldom gets visitors - and a former king even less often. A former king is about as much use as a spare umbrella in the desert. You're welcome to stay...you can have dinner with us. Oh, I'm being quite rude, I haven't introduced you to my new assistant. This is Geril Kanelar," Cianar said, gesturing to the younger man sitting at the table. "You both have something in common - you work for House Krytellin."

Kanelar nodded politely to Ceberath. "A pleasure to meet you, sir. I hadn't heard that Jaris had a new aide." The smile on Kanelar's face did not extend to his eyes, which remained keenly fixed on Ceberath.

"Oh, just an oversight, I'm sure," Cianar said. "As it was in my time, government is still most efficient at being inefficient. I've heard that Jaris is coming back home to meet with his father - I'm sure he'll tell us all about it then. Well, I am going to get ready for dinner. I hope you'll join us, Olen. We can sort out the plans for the trip to Allech-Atreus. Geril, would you be so kind as to help me get ready?"

"Of course, sir," Geril said smoothly, escorting Cianar out of the room. When Geril had his back turned, Cianar made a gesture towards Ceberath that could well have been a wink. It was so quick, though, that it could have just as easily been a twitch.

Mag bowed his head. "Thank you very much, your Majesty! I am honored to join you for dinner!"

As the two men left the room, Mag quickly began running through the scenarios in his head. It might be likely that this Kanelar realized that Mag was not in the employ of House Krytellin, but it wouldn't matter- Kanelar was a mole for the Krytellins anyway. And with Jaris returning to Altanar, Mag's missions just became a bit more difficult.

But I like it a bit dangerous... it's a game, then. With higher stakes...

He walked out of the kitchen and was shown up to the room he would be staying the night in. Two windows, bed, bureau... only one door, one closet. He set down his briefcase, closed the door, and opened the case. Inside were sheaves of papers, fake diplomatic communiques, a passport, and some currency. Nothing out of the ordinary. He closed the case, waited for a moment, and opened it again.

This time the case was filled with instruments, weapons, and vials of liquid. He lifted a pen out of the case, took off the cap, and clicked his finger against the shaft. A hypodermic needle dropped down. Unscrewing the base, he lifted a vial out of the case and pressed it to the back, clear fluid emptying into the ink cartridge. Putting the pen back together, he put it in his breast pocket.

He closed the case. If anyone would open it, they would only see papers. He looked at his watch, then blinked. His neural implants (standard for most in the Agundan) kicked in and he began reviewing the conversation with the old King. The man was more than he seemed... unlike the double that had been sitting next to him. Old Cianar would have to be watched... eliminating him was the last resort.

Standing up, he opened the door and walked down the hall and outside, into the garden, and began to admire some of the flowers ((assuming there are flowers...))

dinnertime..., he thought.

King Olen International Airport, Ael Khalas

Jaris Krytellin tapped his fingers irritably on the armrest of his seat, waiting for the Royal Altanari Air Force diplomatic jet to clear the interminable security checks at the government terminal. "Patience, Jaris," Cmdr. Delren Meleketh, his Security Chief and bodyguard, chuckled. "I normally am patient, Delren....you know that. But we really don't have time for this nonsense," Jaris grumbled, still tapping his fingers.

When the RAAF tower finally cleared the plane to disembark, Jaris briskly exited the plane, followed by Meleketh. "We have a vehicle waiting, I trust?" he asked Meleketh. "Don't we always?" the burly Royal Guardsman grinned, as they walked to the front of the government terminal.

Once in the vehicle, Jaris instructed the guard to drive to his home. While driving there, he picked up the vehicle's secured phone and made a phone call to his father's secretary. "I'm sorry, sir, but Lord Krytellin is not home at the moment. Would you like to leave a message for him?" the secretary said. "Will he be home soon? It's urgent that I speak to him in person," Jaris replied. "Well, he did not tell me where he was going, but he did say that he would be back for dinner..."

"Then I shall be joining my family for dinner. Please inform them that I will be arriving," Jaris said. "Of course, sir. Is there anything else I can do for you?" Jaris shook his head, not stopping to think that the secretary couldn't very well see that over the phone. "No, thank you," Jaris said, hanging up.

"Expecting a pleasant dinner with the old man?" Meleketh chuckled.

"I need to talk to him about all this crap going on since the King's edict, since I'm supposed to meet with Aelkyn tomorrow. And you don't have to be amused by this," Jaris replied, although he couldn't hide a wry grin.

"Well, I know how much you love coming back home to visit the folks," Meleketh laughed. His laughter was interrupted by a small beep from the vehicle communications system. "Hmm....a request for confirmation from the A-Guards office at Nalitar...did we send someone over there?"

"No....we don't have anyone to send. You're the closest thing to a staff I have, pencil-pusher," Jaris laughed.

Meleketh waved a rocklike fist in front of Jaris. "Watch it. I can still push more than pencils," he grinned.

"Okay, nevermind....sheesh.....what's the name on that conf request?"

"Hmmm...Olen Ceberath? Never heard of him," Meleketh said.

"Neither have I," Jaris said, tapping his fingers on the limousine door. "Better send them a response. Cianar isn't exactly a high-profile target these days, but with all the nutjobs out there these days, you can't be too careful."

"Well well well...you finally learned something from me after all these years," Meleketh said, sending a response to the confirmation request.

Nalitar House

After finishing with attending to Cianar, Geril excused himself to "get ready for dinner". Once in his own room, he pulled out a small phone to make a call. "What is it? I told you to only call this line in emergencies," Lord Krytellin answered harshly. "And this is one," Geril answered. "Someone claiming to be an aide to your son is here, trying to convince Cianar to go on a trip to some place called Allech-Atreus. I've never even heard of it."

"Even if Cianar does go on a trip somewhere, it means nothing. Cianar would have to come back to Altanar anyway once the plan is realized. We stick to the plan. Have you begun giving Cianar his...medication?" Lord Krytellin asked.

"Yes, I have. The cook has been attending to that. But..."

"But nothing. Just keep an eye on them both and report to me later with the details, in the manner I ordered you to." Lord Krytellin hung up.

---

Cianar leaned down to remove one final speck of dirt off his dress shoes. The secure phone at his belt beeped. He rose back up to answer it. "What is it?"

"Lord Aranathas, we have received a return on the confirmation report on your...guest. The security officer for Ambassador Krytellin states that this individual is not someone they sent. Shall I take him into custody?"

"No....I am curious about this. Just watch him. In the meantime, we shall see how this plays out," Cianar replied. "As you wish, Lord Aranathas," the security officer replied. Cianar removed the offending speck of dust from his shoe, and walked to the door, a smile on his face.

The popular Sun TV political program Altanar Debates weighed in on the struggle for power going on. Commentator Jerila Deriskanan had this to say:

"While the nobles are certainly a group of overly-rich, power-hungry, self-interested jackasses, King Aelkyn cannot be accused of acting out of purely altruistic motives here. Certainly, his plan to dump the Senate and expand the Assembly looks good - on the face of it. But you have to look at the bigger picture. The King wants to double - or even triple - the number of seats in the Assembly. He says he wants to do this to 'give more parties and more people a chance to take part in the political process'. But Altanari politics has long been defined by the classic struggle between the AUP and the MDP - the traditionalists and the reformers. When the AUP holds control, they try to keep things in Altanar the way they've always been, 'to maintain traditional Altanari values and policies'. When the MDP holds control, they try to change everything 'to reform Altanar's antiquated political system and bring about true democracy'. And historically, when the MDP holds sway, the King has a hard go of it. So, naturally, Kings have always tried to keep the AUP strong. But by tripling the number of Assembly seats, this will open up the process to all the smaller parties that traditionally have gotten nowhere in Altanar. Progress, you say? Maybe. But I personally think that it's a really slick move by the King. Most of the smaller parties tend to be left-leaning, a constituency normally represented by the MDP and sometimes the greenies. Now, when you have a big chunk of different parties competing for the left-leaning vote, most of which can't stand each other and don't know how to work together, how can that be anything but a win for the AUP - and the King?"

"You're probably expecting me to say that the Senate should be kept, then. But I'm not going to. As ultimately sneaky as the King's plan really is, having 16 filthy-rich parasites and a stuffed-shirt priest of an archaic religion in control of half our legislative branch - and by extension, our government - is even worse. So, I say, bring on the King's plan. Just remember, King Aelkyn - your people are watching you. And we're not dumb."

---

Meanwhile, the ART news show Altanar Today reported an incident that occured in the city of Ektar, capital of an isolated province in northwest Altanar. A large group of citizens there apparently tried to storm the local noble's mansion, only to be beaten back by Provincial Guards and retainers. The governor of Ektar Province was threatening to impose martial law if the citizens did not calm down. Several graphic images of people who had been beaten by the guards were shown, shocking many viewers.

OOC: These are some images to give you an idea what some of the various places I'm mentioning look like.

The State Court (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/statecourt.jpg) (Royal Hall of Justice)

The Legislative Building, seen from the square (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/cap.jpg)

Nalitar House (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/nh.jpg)

The Aerie (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/aerie.jpg)

Another shot of the Aerie (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/aerie2.jpg)

Royal Ministries Building (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/rmb.jpg)

OOC: Just going to skip ahead to just before dinner, if that's allright.

Mag descended the steps steps from the second floor, having changed his suit. His pen was in his breast pocket, and cupped in his hand was a tiny clear gelcap. He turned the corner and walked into the kitchen, smiling at the cook.

"Good evening, ma'am. What are we serving for dinner tonight?"

He looked over the room. There was a soup bubbling over the stove, but the cook just looked crossly at him.

"Get out of my kitchen, you! You'll get some when it's ready!"

He smiled sheepishly and backed out. He found his way to the dining room, where they table was being set. There was a flower vase, and he leaned over to smell the flowers. Taking one by the stem, he invisibly dropped the gelcap into the water, dissolving it on contact.

The liquid in the capsule will be absorbed... and be spread about the room...

Suddenly, his neural implant gave him a mental nudge. He had his course of action. By now the other mole had ID'ed him, so he'd have to deal with him quicker than he expected. And if the grunt knew, the old king probably did too.

He walked back through the house and found the bedrooms again... the room he had seen Kanelar go into earlier. He knocked on the door, patting his chest and feeling the pen against his skin.

The door to the bedroom opened. Geril appeared in the doorway, starting slightly when he saw Ceberath. "Yes, can I help you?" he said, keeping himself partly behind the door.

He didn't smile.

"I need to speak with you, one-on-one. It's important."

[Somehow, Ambassador Truddlit Zwedvek manages to shortcut the usual bureaucratic nonsense and wangle a quick audience with the King. Ulrheks are such pleasant (or, at least, pleasant-looking) people that folks often find it hard to tell them no. After the usual ambassador-to-monarch pleasantries, she gets to the meat of the matter.]

"Your Majesty, I've heard for a while that Her Majesty has been really, really wanting to have the royal apartments redecorated. Well, we have two really, really fine interior decorators here to redecorate the embassy, and I figured while they were here they might as well redo your place. They're from the firm of Harmony & Herb. In fact, they are the firm of Harmony & Herb. It'll be on us, of course. So, with Your Majesty's permission, they'll start doing their preliminary studies and planning right away. Herb'll be working during the day. Harmony works at night. Lights bother her eye. She only has one of them. So it'll be sort of round-the-clock coverage. Tee hee. Anyway, we'd really, really appreciate it if Your Majesty could make arrangements for them to start work immediately. I'm sure our Prince would be really, really happy to know they're on the job."

[As she gets to the end of this odd recital, Truddy gives the King a re... (aw, forget that) a very odd look, crossing her eyes. And with the size of Ulrheks' eyes, that's something to see. She wants to make sure he realizes that there's a lot more here than meets the eye, and doesn't just write her off as an incurable ditz.]

Nalitar House

"All right, then," Geril said cautiously, stepping away from the door and allowing Ceberath to walk in, and then shutting the door behind him.

An Aranathan Guardsman, who had been watching the brief conversation through use of a video camera in the hallway, nudged the guard commander. "What do you make of that?" The commander simply stroked his chin. "It's odd, but the Lord wants this to play out, however it plays out. So we'll just keep acting like dumb country bumpkins and watch this for now. It should make dinner interesting, at least. There is one thing we're going to do, however, Lord's orders or no." The commander walked over to the secure command terminal in his office, to send a message to his counterpart at the Aerie.

---

The Aerie

King Aelkyn listened quietly to Ambassador Zwedvek until she finished her spiel. After pondering silently for a moment, he nodded. "Yes...I think the Queen and I will be glad to have them on the job too," he said. "I'll see to it that you have all the....decorating help you'll require to start immediately."

The Ael Khalas Union-Sun newspaper's website published a report noting several large purchases the government had made of military and police equipment over the recent year, and several increases in the size of Altanar's police and military forces. The website speculated that these changes, which had been little noticed until now, may have been moves by the King in preparation for his sudden decision to disenfranchise the nobles. The article wondered if the increased muscularity of Altanar's police and military portended bad things for the nation.

The Sultan was still recovering, but was out of bed, and had returned to normal business, something the Grand Vizier was profoundly regretting.

"It's a military coup!"

"We like military coups, Mikko. It was you who advised to finance that..."

The exchange subsided into hurried coughing.

"No, Holiness. We do not ‘like’ military coups. We may in the past have supported legitimate movements who have cooperated with military officers in order to bring about stability and social order. But that’s not what we see here: instead, we have a despotic –”

“Mikko, you once had me include ten paragraphs on the value of despotism in my Annual Address.”

“– tyrannical –”

“Since when was Gruenberg opposed to tyranny?”

“– powerhungry –”

“One of our strongest allies was actually called Powerhungry…whatevers.”

The Grand Vizier struggled on valiantly. “– dictator, forcing a new and unpopular form of government on a populace blind to its possible effects, no doubt preparing to use the brutal enforcement of the military arm to smash his so-called reforms.”

The Sultan moved round the table, on which lay a highly detailed though also highly inaccurate map of Altanar. Cartography was somewhat anathema to strict Wenaism, and anyway Gruenberg’s inherent xenophobia tended to discourage the study of other lands. The Sultan didn’t like to point it out, but he thought it pretty unlikely that they had four-dimensional rivers and a settlement called ‘Generic Town #3A’.

“Mikko, I don’t really care. Fine, Altanar is a nation that could plausibly affect us. But why does this really matter? Why the sudden interest? Coups happen all the time, and ones that are lot more coup-like than this one. They involve actual tanks instead of a little reorganization of parliament. And the only ‘bad’ aspect to this seems to be the preservation of the monarchy – I should hope that’s not the root of your objection.”

“Of course not, Holiness. To even think it would be a heretical act worthy of damnation.” The security guard looked down from staring out of the window, and the Grand Vizier reluctantly returned the dart gun to his pocket. “Holiness, if I may. We have on occasion agreed, but when we have, I have always spoken up – as any true friend does. So now, we should act as true friends to Altanar, and speak up when they are on the cusp of making a bad decision.”

“But you’re not talking about speaking.”

“Well, yes, speaking. It’s just a question of who we speak to.”

“And this Pyandran…”

“Yes. Rono Pyandran. He’s going to be our security chief at the new Altanari embassy: he’s under instructions to find a way of communicating covertly with the leading nobles.”

“I trust you mean he will be under such instructions pending my approval.”

“Of course, Holiness.”

They exchanged smiles of refined animosity for a moment, and then the Sultan rested his hand on a portion of the map labelled ‘here be dragonnes’.

“Mikko, I still have no earthly idea what’s going on. I’m almost touched to see you care so much.”

“Holiness, how can I stand by and watch such atrocities be wantonly committed?”

“Hmm. Well, I trust you. Next…one of my advisors tells me there’s a genocide underway in –”

“Eh, I really don’t think that’s any of our concern, Holiness.”

OOC: Sorry for the delay, had a busy weekend.

IC:

Mag walked into the room, quickly looking around to get his bearings. He did it deliberately, knowing that Kanelar would notice. He turned to face the man, and spoke.

"I'll cut to it. I know why you're here, but you don't quite know why I am. To put it plainly, I'm here to watch you."

He didn't wait for a response, but kept talking.

"Yes, watch you. There are more powerful people at work here than your boss, and I'm here on their orders. I know full well that the old king has figured out that I don't work for Jaris, just like you do. But that's not important. My job is to watch. And since you seem like a reasonably intelligent man, one that can grasp the gravity of important situations and judge danger fairly well, you can no doubt deduce what will happen to you if you get in my way."

He kept talking.

"I know exactly why Krytelling sent you, but I'm not here to stop that. You will let me do my job, and I will let you do yours. Are we clear?"

OOC: no problem...I did also.

IC:

Geril pondered the statement of Ceberath for a moment. "As long as your job doesn't interfere with mine, we won't have a problem. I have to admit, I'm curious about who sent you here, but I'm sure you're not going to divulge that."

---

Meanwhile, at the Aerie, the Aranathan Guards commander's office received the message sent by their counterpart at Nalitar House. The communications officer frowned, and called the commander over. "You might want to take a look at this," he said. The commander reviewed the message, and frowned as well. "What does Cianar think he's playing at?" the commander mused. "I'm going to ask his Majesty if we should do anything about this. Tell the commander over there to keep me advised - personally - if anything changes," he snapped at the comm officer. "Do you think this is important enough to bother the King about, sir?" the comm officer replied. "Let's put it this way. Do you want to be the one to tell the King that something happened to his father, and we knew something was odd, but said nothing?" the commander replied.

The comm officer said nothing - his silence and suddenly nervous expression said it all. "Thought not," the commander growled, leaving the room.

The commander soon arrived at the throne room. Two Aranathan Guards in full-dress uniform stood on either side of the double doors. "I need to see his Majesty. Is he occupied at the moment?"

"He's meeting with the Ausserland ambassador right now, sir," one of the guards replied. "Damnit....diplomatic crap," the commander responded. "I'll have to wait until he's done."

[Ambassador Zwedvek beams at the King.]

"Excellent, Your Majesty! They really won't need any help for now. They'll just be making sketches and coming up with plans and tossing around color swatches and all that decoratorish stuff. All they'll need is free access to the royal apartments and other places you spend time."

[Truddy bows quickly and hurries out of the Royal Palace. As she exits the gate she whips out her cell phone. The conversation is a very short one.]

"Hardblade here."

"Go, go."

"Roger. Enroute."

Once Aelkyn was done exchanging goodbyes with Ambassador Zwedvek, the Aranathan Guards commander went into the throne room. "I'm sorry to interrupt, your Majesty, but there is something odd going on concerning your father."

"Odd? Explain," the King said.

The commander explained the goings-on at Nalitar House, reading off the message from the commander there. "No one bothered to tell me this until now? From now on, commander, I expect to be informed immediately when anything that may affect the well-being of my father takes place. I want that order given to the Nalitar House A-Guards commander as well. Is that clear?" Aelkyn snapped. "Yes, your Majesty...I'm sorry..." the commander said, turning pale.

"Never mind that now," Aelkyn said, calming slightly. "I'm glad you showed the initiative to tell me what was going on. I don't like this, though...order the commander at Nalitar House to begin watching both Kanelar and this...'Ceberath' very closely. And alert the nearest Royal Guards platoon to set up outside the house. Do it discreetly, commander. And also, get Nelron Khiskithy in here. I want to know more about this 'state visit'. I need the Minister of Justice in here too...I want to know about the preparations for our case to the State Court tomorrow."

"At once, your Majesty," the commander said, saluting and practically running out of the room.

"And now, arriving in one of this year's limited edition concept-model Ferraris imported into Altanar at a cost of some 1million solari ..."

" ... and her ladyship is wearing a 10,000-solari creation from the exclusive Venducci Sisters, a couture fashion house based in France Nouvelle, with shoes by the designer-artist Enolo containing hundreds of diamond chips in the heels -- we'll try to pan in there, it's not often you see half a million solari walking on a public footpath ..."

Teo had done his homework. That social secretary Jaren had discovered had been a help, but the solid facts and figures Teo was quoting had come from his own search programs. And who could fault a reporter who researched a story so thoroughly, and who could be blamed if it drew a picture of shameless luxury? It wasn't as if he'd made up the facts, after all. He particularly liked the touches about the foreign firms that would profit from the nobles' indulgence.

Naturally, once inside, he had to interview the author of all this splendour.

"You lead the International Guild of Harpers, I believe, Fen-lord na-Tholiou? Are you hoping to set up a branch of your union in Altanar?"

"My dear boy!" Jaren twinkled reproachfully. "Are you calling the Harpers' Guild a labour union? No, Teo -- I may call you Teo, may I not? That microphone constitutes an introduction, I would say -- the Harpers' Guild is the name given to an organisation that, over the centuries, has represented the leading exponents of a vast field of artistic and cultural enterprise. We endeavour to present these talents to the widest possible audience, and we adopted the name 'Harpers' because in mediaeval times they were the first recognised group of artists to come under the benevolent patronage of a far-sighted aristocracy."

He's laying it on too thick, Teo cringed to himself, but nevertheless kept his tiny mike/camera focussed on the beaming Jaren.

"Indeed, before the, ah, 'glorious revolution' in my home country, Lloegeyr, my family had a long tradition of encouraging such abilities. I have found that wherever a nation has allowed its nobility to exercise their trained sensibility and discriminating tastes, true artistry flourishes in a genuine Golden Age under an informed patronage that cannot be equalled by the efficient but, let us say, somewhat shallow perceptions and brief authority of State officials."

It wasn't a 30-second grab, but then, a 30-second grab would have been out of character for such a voluble aristocrat. At least the steady parade of recognisable faces in the background of the interview would guarantee exposure. Teo's thanks and Jaren's polite farewells reflected their mutual satisfaction.

Not so Flick's current situation.

"My cousin gave me some, he says it's sooo coool, you wanna try?"

The young woman in front of her was a direct contradiction of Darwin, Flick decided. Confident in her status as a daughter of the nobility, she was offering an illegal drug of unknown effects to someone she'd met five minutes ago. Only some sort of supernatural intervention could have allowed such self-destructive entities to survive and breed.

"Uh, right. Coool."

Clinking glasses with her new bosom buddy, Flick tipped the powder into her drink and swallowed. She was grateful yet again for the minor psycho-kinetic ability she'd acquired at her unlikely high school. A slight shift in perception allowed her to trace the drug through her body and quickly shunt it away from centres that would be overloaded, cells that would over-react -- well, well! If the Altanaran physiology was anything like human, at least this kid's cousin hadn't slipped her a date-rape drug.

"Why's your uncle that colour and you aren't?"

"He's not my uncle by blood, he's my uncle by marriage." Flick had prepared an elaborate explanation, but why waste it? "So, do you go to Uni here?"

"University?" Flick might just as well have asked if she'd captured many unicorns lately. Well, she'd just have to look elsewhere for information to flesh out the other identity she planned to adopt.

Observing from across the room, Jaren grinned inwardly, but kept his attention on the State Court judge he'd captured. This was certainly one significant scalp for his belt, given the Constitutional power that body held, but where were the diplomats? And the ecclesiastics? Far too few of either -- was that a pointer to the state of play?

He snagged both his wandering mind and a canape. Tonight, think only Noble thoughts.

(OOC: A party is a chance for conspirators to meet openly ...)

Mag smiled coldly.

"We understand each other, then." He turned to leave, but stopped. Without turning back, he said one last thing.

"Your boss ought to think about which side he's picked. After tonight, things may change."

He opened the door and walked out of the room. As he was walking down the hall to his own night's lodging, his implant signalled him. The sensor he had placed when he was outside was detecting something.

Excellent. Everything is as it should be.

In his room, he pulled out his attache and retrieved several sheets. He looked them over quickly, and pulled out a false bottom in his "decoy" version of the case. Placing the papers in the hidden compartment, he picked up a bottle of pills- mind-altering substances- and put them in with the papers.

The papers were encrypted, but only lightly. It would only take an hour or so to decode them. And when they were decoded, they would spell out orders from "General" Kerilais detailing a plan to use Cianar to support the Akamian movement.

Mag closed the case and brushed his hand over the top, resting it for a moment. Removing his hand, he placed the case under the bed. If opened, it would only reveal the papers and false bottom.

Leaving the room once again, he walked downstairs calmly, and to the door. He smiled at the guard, opened the gate, and bolted.

Nalitar House

"Damnit! You there! Stop or i'll shoot!" the guard at the gate yelled, unslinging his AR-67 rifle and pursuing Ceberath. The guard at the front door frantically yanked out his radio to call for backup.

---

Meanwhile, at the party, several nobles clustered woodenly in a far corner, away from the crowd. They weren't sure why they were there, but were certain they were there for a reason.

"Has the father been prepared yet?" Lady Tarabesh whispered to Lord Krytellin. "We are preparing him now," Krytellin responded quietly. "You need to hurry up with that," Lord Pyrellis whispered coldly. "We don't have much time, even people as dimwitted as his son will catch on soon. Is the father secure?"

"There is someone trying to get him to go on a trip out-of-country. But I don't see that mattering, once the son and his family are delivered to their loving mother. The father will need to return home anyway," Krytellin whispered back.

"The father needs to stay here, where we can keep an eye on him. Have your friend....encourage the father to stay home for now," Pyrellis responded.

"And what of our Holy Eminences?" Lord Sarkas asked.

"Still praying out both sides of their mouths," Pyrellis said. "We need to make them see the light, and soon."

Office of King Serph
The White City of Valak
Valak District, Krioval

"If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, it would seem that either we or the Altanari King should be feeling quite the boost in self-esteem, don't you think?"

"Your Majesty refers to the recent actions of King Aelkyn and how they pertain to, er, 'recent events' in Krioval?"

"Director Takahara, there are no need for euphemisms here. He and I incited revolutions. Perhaps they are different in their roots and scope, but they pair up nicely in their desired results."

"To varying degrees, my Lord."

"Explain," Serph said quietly. "Without gliding over the complicated parts, please."

Yoshi gulped. "Altanar appears to be undergoing a social revolt against the moneyed nobility led by a popularly supported king, in order to expand democracy. His Majesty the King Aelkyn, however, does not appear to enjoy a great deal of support among any of the nobility. I would compare this to Krioval's revolt of last November, wherein the conflict was over political and religious institutions, namely the issue of the Paladic Guild."

"A fair summary. I would add that, in our case, Krioval was heading toward a sociopolitical crisis. My reports lead me to conclude that the root of Altanar's troubles are more based on economic concerns?"

"I would not disagree with that assessment, my Lord. Still, I believe it in Krioval's best interests, from a foreign policy standpoint, to support the Altanari King."

"Agreed. I presume that in the wake of our last few months' mess, we lack coordinated diplomatic contacts with Altanar?"

"That is correct, Majesty."

Serph exhaled loudly. "That complicates matters. Then again, would it be as fun if it weren't a challenge?" He paused. "See if they'll agree to an exchange of ambassadors. Also, I will draft a letter expressing Krioval's solidarity with forward-thinking monarchs, which I will send directly to His Majesty in Altanar."

"Is there anything else that Your Majesty would have my office do, with regard to this situation?"

"You are the gold dragon, Director, and information is your prey. Hunt it down and devour it. And please make sure that my missive to His Majesty is intercepted and leaked."

"My Lord?"

"Consider what led to a reasonably nonviolent end to our revolution. We possessed both the Paladic Guild and the center of the Faith, as well as a few other devices that aided us. Also, the average Kriovaller is used to stability and prosperity. We kept that intact, not that it was particularly easy. Finally, several of the tribes actually preferred a Dekker/Kriov monarch to an Andros president simply due to our politics." Serph looked seriously at the Director. "Now, if tribalism in Altanar is stronger, or if the religious leaders there support the nobility, or if a democrat there does something incredibly stupid, the Lord Aelkyn is not going to do so well as did I. He is even now losing the initiative that his surprise maneuver generated."

"So the leak is to induce an impulsive reaction from the Altanari nobility?"

"And give them a target that's a hell of a lot harder to hit."

Yoshi smiled. "I believe that many people underestimate your cunning, my Lord."

Serph returned the grin. "Explains why I still live."


* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *


http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l88/SilverSerph/WHITECIT.gif
Seal of the White City of Valak
Free Lands of Krioval

To His Most August and Enlightened Majesty,
King Aelkyn of the Unified Kingdom of Altanar,

We would like to extend our most sincere congratulations to Your Majesty for Your Majesty's decisive efforts to curb the evils of rampant tribalism in the Unified Kingdom of Altanar. Within the Free Lands of Krioval, our efforts to enact similar reforms have been trying, to say, the least, but have led to a more productive and prosperous nation. We firmly believe that, while Your Majesty will be beset by many detractors in the coming weeks and months, it is clear to those watching the valiant struggle of the Altanari people that they, and Your Majesty, will prevail, for those endeavoring for greater wisdom and justice inevitably do so.

For those who combat Your Majesty's glorious campaign, it is the opinion of our modest nation that those individuals, drunken from a legacy of gluttony and wanton abuse of power, must be broken of their addiction to money and authority. As an alcoholic cannot begin to recover until all traces of the intoxicant are withdrawn from the body, so must those protesting Your Majesty's swift actions must be weaned not gradually, but immediately and with great force, from those things that corrupt them so utterly.

Our government desires most strongly to see resolution in this issue, and for healing to follow this time of social and political upheaval. We offer any and all support that can be brought to bear upon this situation that Your Majesty might continue to work for the Unified Kingdom.

Most Cordially,

Serph-Kaiyos, the Light
Free Lands of Krioval

Mag turned back, shouting.

"You'll never take me alive! Down with the Aranathas!"

He pulled the pen from his pocket, exposed the syringe, and jammed it into his neck. He dropped like a stone, crumpling to the ground.



* * *

It was nighttime when Inquisitor Darak awoke to the sound of someone at his door. Putting on a silk dressing robe, he walked to the door and opened it without question.

Before him was a man in a jet black military uniform. He said nothing.

Darak nodded. "I'll be there." he said, and closed the door.


* * *

Imperial High Council of the Five, Imperial City, Imperia Prime, Allech-Atreus

Councillor Weldin steepled his fingers.

"The legal issue before is one that is most interesting, regarding sovereignty in foreign nations. As His Most Excellent Imperial Majesty is the sole arbiter of the heavenly will, being the most holy manifestation of divine power, all right to rule flows from him. Consider the case of the Kingdom of Altanar."

Councillor Trask nodded.

"The case is an interesting one. We are faced with a King who is at odds with the nobility, who has sought to strenghten his own power base by removing the obstinacy of the traditionalists."

Councillor Belda shook her head.

"However, he does this at the expense of the established heavenly order, by giving power to the mass of people. This is not something that indicates a mandate from the heavenly powers."

Councillor Dejachman nodded.

"This is true. However, it cannot be denied that the King of Altanar is the rightful ruler of his nation. The nobles, though hereditary, threaten this through subterfuge and rebellion. Although the King may be unpopular with them, they seek what is unconscionable- rebellion against a legitimate ruler."

At the end of the long table, Councillor Vrid sat motionless.

"The best course of action is to continue operations in Altanar and gauge the situation as it develops. Though we may have reached a legal standing, we cannot ignore the plans given to us by highed powers. Therefore, we must continue with the status quo. Aushedar Darak has been given his orders, and Doyin Mag has nearly completed his mission. He will be back in a day to give his report."

The other councillors nodded in agreement. After a moment of silences, they all rose in sync and left the room.

Nalitar House

The sound of the shouting and frantic running of various soldiers soon attracted the attention of Cianar. He ran down to the front of the house, accompanied by several guards. At the sight of "Ceberath's" body, they came to a halt. "Damnit! Entirely too precipitous!" Cianar shouted. "What happened here?"

"He tried to make a run for it, Lord. I ordered him to stop, and he jabbed this into his neck," the guard that had chased "Ceberath" said, nudging the pen-syringe with his foot gingerly.

Another soldier came up to the group. "Milord, I am Captain Herin Kapala, 2nd Platoon, Royal Guards Nalioka. My unit has a medic with us - he can attend to this man," the captain said. "Very well. Is he alive?" Cianar asked the medic. The medic checked for a pulse, or breathing, then shook his head. "Damnit," Cianar swore. "Search him to see if he has anything on him that might give us some clues. Also, search his room immediately."

"Yes, milord," the captain said, and quickly dispatched several of his soldiers to do so.

"By the way, captain, who ordered you here?" Cianar asked. "His Majesty, your son, did, milord," Kapala said. "There was concern for your wellbeing."

"And who, exactly, sent this...concern to my son?" Cianar asked. No one said anything. "Putting one over on the old man, eh? Well....maybe I am too old to be playing these games anymore..." he trailed off.

A few minutes later, the guards who went to search Ceberath's room came back. "Milord, there were some encrypted documents in his room....and these," one of them said, handing the pills to Cianar. "I don't recognize these. What are they?" Cianar asked the medic. After examining them, the medic replied, "We'd have to analyze them at a base lab to be sure, but I think they're psychopharmaceuticals. They're meant to alter mental chemistry."

"But who were they for?" Cianar mused. After a moment, the old Lord drew himself up straighter. "I don't know what's going on here, but I'm not making any more a fool of myself by trying to play spy games. Captain, you and your men will escort me to Ael Khalas immediately. Your men, except for a small crew, will accompany us," Cianar said, waving to the Aranathan Guards commander of Nalitar House. "How quickly can we get to the Aerie?"

"Within an hour at most, milord," the captain replied. "Very well, let's be off, then," Cianar ordered.

As Cianar walked to board one of the armored transports, the A-Guards commander pulled him aside. "There's something else you should know, milord. Your new retainer and this....Ceberath....they were speaking privately in a bedroom before Ceberath tried to flee. We did not hear their conversation....but it is suspicious," the commander whispered. "I see," Cianar said, brows drawing down sharply. "Well, when we get to the Aerie, we shall find out what, if anything, he had to do with it. Take him in a different APC. Allow him no communications."

"Understood, milord," the commander said, saluting him.

[Ambassador Zwedvek and Major Ee are relaxing in the Ausserland embassy, chuckling over a wire-service story just received.]

From: The Haupstadt Herald
Haupstadt, Ausserland
060207 1449 AT

Rush-hour traffic in the District's southeast section was tied up even more than usual today as Old Branch Road was closed for more than a half hour to permit passage of a convoy of some 40 military vehicles. The convoy departed Fort Defiance shortly after 8:00 a.m. and traveled to Prince Egon Air Force Base.

The vehicles were unmarked, but our sources explained that, coming from Fort Defiance, they were almost certainly part of the Army of Ausserland's Special Operations Command. They estimated that, from the number of vehicles, at least a battalion of troops was involved.

A spokesperson at the Ministry of Defense declined to comment on the convoy, stating that the Ministry's policy was to refrain from comment on routine military operations. A query about the reported fly-in of several Ausserland Air Force AC-141B aircraft yesterday brought the same response.

In a possibly related development, both Fort Defiance and Prince Egon Air Force Base were declared temporary Restricted Areas yesterday, and closed to all but assigned military and civilian personnel and dependents.

Ee: "Amazing what a few dozen empty trucks can do, huh?"

Zwedvek: "Yeah. But the planes?"

Ee: "Crew familiarization runs. Routine stuff. Just jerked the schedule around a bit."

Zwedvek: "Sammy tells me the Prince went out to the air base yesterday afternoon, trailed by a gaggle of generals."

Ee: "Yeah. Figured that might boost some interest. Besides, he likes the kielbasa sammiches in the dining facility." [Chortles.]

Royal Highway 1, between Ael Khalas and Nalioka

Jaris Krytellin silently pondered the countryside outside his window as the limousine sped towards Nalioka. Beside him, Delren Meleketh snored. Some bodyguard you are, Jaris mused, silently laughing. He knew fully well, though, that Delren could snap awake at a moment's notice, ready to fight if needed.

Another beep sounded from the comm system. "Yes, what is it?" Jaris answered. "Ambassador Krytellin, we have orders from King Aelkyn. You are to return to Ael Khalas immediately. It is a Priority One command, sir."

"Priority One? Did he say why?"

"No, sir, all I was instructed was to tell you to proceed immediately to the Aerie. I'm sorry, sir," the comm officer said.

"That's allright, we'll be there in 35 minutes or so. Krytellin out." Now what in the hell's happened? Jaris wondered.

"Priority One, eh?" Delren said, suddenly, startling Jaris. "I thought you were asleep," Jaris smirked.

"I was. Things are really hitting the fan, aren't they?" Meleketh said seriously.

"We're about to find out," Jaris responded, picking up the mic to instruct the driver to turn around.

At the party, a beep sounded on Lord Pyrellis' secured phone. He walked outside to answer it. "What is it?" he answered harshly.

"The 'visitor from your son' is dead. Cianar is heading to the Aerie now," the cook from Nalitar House told him.

"What in the hell happened!" Pyrellis shouted, causing a few heads to turn. Lowering his voice and walking away a bit, he repeated the question.

"I'm not sure, sir. The 'visitor' tried to flee, a guard chased him, and now he is dead. Geril has been taken by the guards in an army vehicle. I don't know why, but I'm not sticking around here to be taken prisoner too." The phone went dead.

Pyrellis pondered the phone silently for a moment. He then walked inside to the other nobles. "We may have a problem. You might want to be ready to leave soon."

Allech-Atreus Embassy building, Ael Khalas, Altanar

Kappmaan sat in silence, reading the documents he had recieved from the Empire for the third time.

It is therefore advantageous to continue to observe the situation and take stock of all available avenues of action...

He threw the papers to the side of his desk, rubbing his temples in frustration. Old Man Pendankr was busy with the Dakashi fiasco, so his contacts in the Directorate were just underdirectors and secretaries. That explained the legalistic mess he had been sent, which when translated meant "don't do anything yet, we still don't know what the hell we're doing."

A knock came on the door. "Come in." he said dismissively, moving on to the next document.

Inquisitor Velren Darak, in his Aushedar's uniform, entered the room.

"Ambassador Kappmaan. Aushedar Darak, from the Empire. I have been assigned to your office."

He slumped back in his chair. "Wonderful, another Inquisitor. Maybe I should just blindfold myself and let the two of you run the whole operation."

Darak smiled. "Bashar," he said, using Kappmaan's honorific title, "I'm not here to obfuscate. The Emperor is taking a vested interest in the developments in this country, and I have been dispatched to organize our intelligence efforts. We already know a great deal, but it never hurts to know more."

Kappmaan leaned forward, his brow arched. "And am I to be let out of the little cage the Eye has me in?"

"You will be briefed regularly. I'm going to set up in the Dungeons in a moment. I also have a diplomatic package for you."

Kappmaan nodded as Darak saluted and walked out. Picking up the package, he checked the contents, and smiled. Picking up the phone he talked into the reciever.

"Merideth? Make an appointment with Nelron Khiskithy, maybe a lunch meeting or something. This package may brighten everyone's day."

At the party

"What the hell are you talking about?" Lady Tarabesh asked Lord Pyrellis crossly. "We are not going to discuss that here. All of you stick around and mingle a bit, and then make an exit. We shall meet at my house," he said, walking off. Once Pyrellis had left, and was in his limousine, he made a secured call. "Why are you calling me? You were all worried about breaching security," Sinis Kerilais said. "Plans have changed. You need to prepare our alternate plan. Can you have it ready in time tomorrow?" Pyrellis demanded.

"Oh, it'll be ready. I knew you bluebloods would screw this up," Kerilais said, hanging up.

---

Royal Ministries Building

At the Ministry of State office, Keran Meranas scheduled an appointment for his boss to meet with the Allech-Atreus ambassador, as requested. Better make the appointment before his meeting with the King, since the King will want to know about it anyway, he mused.

Meranas then noticed the letter that had arrived from Krioval, directed to the King. I'm not even touching this one, he thought, calling for a courier to deliver the letter to the Aerie.

---

The Aerie

Norgan Sheloran, the Minister of Justice, arrived as requested by the King, along with a small army of Altanar's government attorneys. The King planned to attend the State Court hearing the next day personally, so everything had to be finalized beforehand.

OOC: I'm just going to skip ahead to the meeting. Assume Kappmaan and Khiskithy are just meeting in a posh Ael Khalas restaurant.

IC:

Kappmaan took a seat at Minister Khiskithy's table.

"Afternoon, Nelron. I hope you're doing well today."

OOC: that's fine, we're probably just going to be working on fluid time from here on out as things are going to begin to progress rapidly.

IC: "As well as could be expected, Eistar," Khiskithy said wearily. "I'm glad you asked to see me, actually, because there was something I needed to ask you about. But we can get to business after lunch, of course," he smiled politely.

Kappmaan laughed. "True, true. We all need some relaxation. I think I'll have the salmon today..."


* * *
Kappmaan set down his fork, and motioned for another drink. He pulled his briefcase up and pulled out some papers.

"Now, business. Unfortunately, my government has not formulated a position on your King's moves. Usually I can tell which way they are going to lean- they tend to favor central authority over nobility, but this one is up in the air for me. We've got some border issues of our own, so military support for his majesty is out of the question for the moment."

He paused.

"What we can offer you is intelligence support. I can't reveal too much, but we do have a very well-developed secret service and can give you whatever help you want if things heat up here."

He handed the papers over and sat back, taking a sip of his drink.

Khiskithy took a sip of his wine. "Any support you can provide would be greatly appreciated by his Majesty, I am sure. This is indeed a difficult moment for our nation, but we'll get through it. No matter how opposed the nobles may be, they simply can't win against the entire nation. The latest polls in the media all show 80% or greater public support for the King's plan, and our own investigations bear that out."

Khiskithy pondered for a moment. "Has your government heard anything that stood out? We are aware of at least one set of machinations."

Kappmaan shook his head.

"Nothing to my knowledge, not yet. It's possible that our intelligence section has turned something up, but I would have been briefed about anything relating to your majesty's government."

He took another drink, then perked as if he had forgotten something.

"Oh! I had almost forgot..." he pulled his briefcase up again, and took out a leatherbound dossier.

"This came just yesterday, direct from the Emperor's assistant himself. Might brighten the King's day a bit. A special travel package, requested by the Imperial family themselves. The King, his wife, his father, and his close family are invited to the Empire, courtesy of Emperor Allech-Atreus."

He handed over the packet, filled with pictures and diplomatic documents.

Khiskithy examined the dossier thoughtfully. "This is certainly a generous invitation...and it may be an ideal time for a state visit abroad, as well," he said, pondering the previous night's events.

---

The previous night, at the Aerie

Before the hour-and-a-half long trip from Nalitar to Ael Khalas, Cianar had ordered a brief stop at the Royal Guards base in Nalioka, to pick up a Royal Intelligence agent skilled at decoding encrypted communications. By the time the convoy reached the outskirts of the capital, the document had been decoded and read. Once its meaning was clear, Cianar ordered the convoy to proceed as fast as possible. The small convoy of APCs roared into the front entrance of the complex, not slowing down until they finished ascending the long, steep road up the mountainside and pulled in front of the palace itself. Once the vehicles stopped, Cianar disembarked and quickly entered, flanked by several guards. The RI agent was sequestered and ordered not to tell anyone what he had read, an order he was glad to obey.

It did not take long for them to reach the throne room, where Cianar's son was waiting. "Welcome home, father. I am glad that you are unharmed and made it safely," Aelkyn said. "Thank you, son, but this is your home now, not mine. I am glad to be here, though," Cianar replied. "And I am glad to see you as well, Melika," he said, nodding warmly to the Queen as she walked into the room. "As I am for your presence here, Cianar....albeit I wish the circumstances were better," she said.

"Yes...the circumstances....they are even worse than you think. You both need to read this," Cianar said, handing them the documents. As Aelkyn and Melika read the documents, their expressions changed from concern to disbelief, which quickly became anger on Aelkyn's part. "They dare this kind of treason! I'll have their heads for this," the King snarled in a low, dangerous voice.

"While it is certainly your right to defend your honor by taking their heads, son, allow an old hand at politics to make a suggestion. Don't move against them yet. Draw them out, let them make their betrayal very obvious. They can't help but do so...they no longer have me as a target, so they won't have any other choice but to do something desperate. Once they do, you can nail them and their entire misbegotten families to the wall, with the complete support of the people and the courts," Cianar said.

Aelkyn's expression of rage changed slowly to one of contemplation, as he considered his father's words. "You're right...we need to make sure everyone in Altanar can see just how dishonorable and vile they are, and follow the law," the King said. "But that they would dare to threaten not just me, but my wife and child.....they shall pay for this with every drop of blood they have by the time they are done."

Aelkyn turned to Defense Minister Pargal Khaskereth. "I want RI and the Royal Police watching these people every second from now on, and be ready to move against them at a moment's notice. We need to begin compiling a case against them."

"By your command, your Majesty," Khaskereth said. "I would also recommend not going to the State Court tomorrow. They could well try to harm you then."

"Let them try," Aelkyn snapped. "I will not hide from these jackals. We shall keep the Queen and my father safe, but I am damn well King of Altanar and I will go where I please. If they try for my life tomorrow, so be it. Their heads will make nice decorations in Legislature Square and outside the palace, if it comes to that."

"Now that sounds like something your grandfather would have said," Cianar laughed. "But he wasn't such a bad king, as I recall."

---

Khiskithy thought for a moment longer, then looked at Kappmaan. "My lord the King would never agree to leave Altanar in such a moment of crisis. He believes it best to confront one's enemies, not hide from them. However, if the rest of his family would be welcome to make a visit to Allech-Atreus, now would be an ideal time. We'd be most grateful."

Akamian Self-Determination Front (ASDF) base, Phantom Lake, Celavan

A truck drove up to the front gate of a shabby ranch. The ranch had once been home to an Altanari rancher who, having more money than sense, had tried to raise livestock in a semi-desert area with little grass and even less water. Thanks to a well-timed assassination and some friends in the provincial land title office, the ranch had since become the property of one "Fernal Jerikathen", who was really a dummy owner for the ASDF.

While the guards at the gate had been alert, the one at the checkpoint midway up was not. Sinis Kerilais stopped the truck, and stepped out to give the guard a hearty kick in the rear end. "Ouch! What the hell..." the guard yelled, balling his fists, but instantly dropped them when he saw who had kicked him. "Oh crap....sorry sir...."

"Revolutionaries don't sleep, bastard!" Kerilais said, kicking the guard again, this time squarely in the crotch. The guard went down like a rag doll, to hoots of laughter from the truck. "That'll teach you to sleep on guard duty," Kerilais grumbled, walking back to the truck. "Take over for this idiot. Tell him to go to the infirmary once he can see straight again," Kerilais told a woman in the truck. "Yes sir, General," she said, saluting him and walking over to the checkpoint.

Satisfied, Kerilais got back in the truck, and drove it to the main building. Everyone got out and walked inside. The meeting room inside was already full with people. A Royal Intelligence agent who knew the Celavan area would have been shocked to see some of the people there. A Royal Policeman...the deputy mayor of Celavan...a few priests with the Church of Altanar...teachers, civil servants...several people who no one outside their families even knew were of Akamian descent...and easily 200 other people. All of them waiting for the self-declared leader of the Akamian independence movement.

Kerilais marched onto the small dais at the front of the room, to raucous cheers from the audience. "Patriots of Akamia! Tomorrow is the day we begin our struggle in earnest to free ourselves from the Altanari yoke and restore our rule over our lands! Are you ready?" he shouted.

The crowd roared their assent, fists pumped into the air.

"You are all the leaders of your cadres. Each of you has the orders for your cadre for tomorrow. Execute them without fail. Tomorrow is the day we earn our freedom!" Kerilais yelled, raising both arms in a two-fisted salute.

"Death to the Aranathans! Death to Altanar! Long live Akamia!" the crowd shouted.

***BREAKING NEWS BULLETIN - SUN TV NEWS***

[Kiana Jaxalas, STV News] - "We interrupt your regular programming to bring you breaking news. Riots have been reported to be breaking out in several cities across Altanar in the past few hours. There have been several reports of attempts to storm noble estates in the cities of Kyrinia, Marr, Astrival, Lukisha, Narraskath and Draskatar. While information is still incomplete, reports are coming in that guards at some of those estates may have fired on the crowds. There are reportedly at least six deaths so far associated with this rioting."

"The provincial governors in all of those provinces have ordered out the Provincial Guards to try to separate the rioters and the nobles' guards and mercenaries. However, we are receiving reports that some PG units have refused to protect the nobles' estates, and that a few may have even assisted the rioters in attacking them."

"None of the nobles have been harmed - all of the nobles are in Ael Khalas currently, awaiting the verdict of the State Court on the King's plan to disenfranchise them. Unconfirmed reports from people on the scene at some of these riots seem to indicate that live coverage of a lavish party the nobles were attending in the capital may have sent viewers angry at the excess displayed into a rage, and that combined with recent beatings of people who had tried to enter noble estates earlier this week, this may have been the spark that lit tonight's conflagrations. We shall bring you more coverage of these events as they develop. For now, the Royal Police have declared martial law in the affected cities and are ordering all citizens to stay home unless absolutely necessary."

Office of King Serph
The White City of Valak
Valak District, Krioval

"You sent for me, Your Majesty?"

"I did. Director, when I asked for the letter to Aelkyn to be leaked, I do not believe I was being subtle. For that matter, I was unaware that I possessed subtlety to begin with."

Yoshi looked perplexed. "You mean that the message arrived securely?! How could that have happened, I wonder."

Serph laughed. "Let me guess. You handed the missive to somebody of questionable trust and then impressed upon them the importance of not releasing this document?"

"I...suppose that was done, my Lord."

"I see. I must say, however, that I am quite impressed that not a single word of this letter was breathed to anybody. Do you know of your office's contact in this matter?"

"I will find out immediately." The Director paused, unsure of whether to continue. "If I may...?"

Serph gestured outward with his arms. "Always."

"Does Your Majesty seek to reward or punish this contact?"

"I believe I may see whether he or she can pass the civil service examination. Apparently this individual's trust is quite strong if one is able to resist the temptation of opening the King's mail."

"I apologize for my failure, my Lord." Yoshi bowed deeply toward the Kriovalian monarch.

Serph walked toward Yoshi and motioned him to resume his normal standint position. "Yoshi, you have done better than any other in this nation at your position. Your dedication honors me. These things...happen, though usually in the reverse."

"We have officially requested an exchange of ambassadors with the Altanari government this afternoon, in addition."

"Good to hear. Please let us know when the application has been processed. And, for that matter, when His Majesty in Altanar responds to my correspondence."

"It will be done." Sensing the conclusion of their conversation, the Director left.

Several minutes later, Lord-General Basch entered, exhausted. "You will not believe the disarray in some of the divisions, Serph. Were it not for the Guild, I should wonder at the defensive capabilities of half of Krioval."

"That bad?"

"Probably not, but they are certainly used to General Sokolev's style. Speaking of whom..."

"Ah, yes," Serph sighed. "Another problem that refuses to go away. I'm thinking we keep him in house arrest until the elections pass."

"Then the unceremonious release from confinement?"

Serph smirked. "On the contrary. We hold a festival celebrating his glorious service to the Free Lands, insist that his detention was merely to protect him from subversive elements within the military, and the praise the new command structure for maintaining internal discipline."

"And that will work?"

"I'll meet with him privately, of course. I would hope that he's either corruptible or a pragmatist. Gods help us all if he's one of those starry-eyed idealists, though. Bombs waiting to go off at the least likely moment."

"You should talk."

"I know myself quite well," the king said. "Oh. Pack your bags. We're going to Altanar."

"May I ask why?"

"Officially or otherwise?"

Basch rolled his eyes. "There's a difference?"

"Officially it's in celebration of our union. Where better to go than the center of liberty and democracy in motion?"

"Somewhere where liberty and democracy are fixed on foundations of bedrock, perhaps? What's the 'otherwise'?"

"Elections are two weeks away, and we need control of the Senate. Some here think that I'm about to launch a tyrannical purge any day now. Supporting democracy abroad might help dispel that notion."

"You worry about the conservatives after what you did to Lord Andros?"

"I worry about the isolationists. If I have to butt heads with the Senate every time I make a decision, control of the military, Guild, and Temple are not going to be enough. And should the tension rise considerably, I would have to eliminate much of the Senate's power."

"So Krioval remains a democracy, so long as the elections favor the king?" Basch asked dryly.

"I need a few months to demonstrate that internationalism is not the evil that many would think. Increase trade, and people get happier. When the people are happy, it makes our jobs much easier. I'm getting tired of domestic challenges, in any case. It's time to interfere in other people's problems for a change. Besides, I don't want the Empire of Allech-Atreus to have all of the fun."

"Saturday morning, then? After the Altanari High Court renders its decision?"

"It's a date. Unless, of course, travel becomes inconvenient at that point."

The Aerie

While waiting after his father arrived, Aelkyn received the letter from Krioval, and sat down to write a formal reply.

---

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/altanarseal.jpg

To: The Honorable King Serph, Esteemed Monarch of the Free Lands of Krioval

On behalf of my nation and its people, I would like to thank you personally for your kind words and generous offer of support. As you no doubt know from your nation's own recent history, moments of transformation and liberation can be intensely difficult for a nation. However, it is our earnest hope and desire that Altanar shall emerge as a strong and free land of equal people as a result.

We assure you that, while Altanar values the rule of law for all, we shall exercise all necessary determination and firmness to ensure that those who would hinder the equality and freedom of our people shall see nothing but failure and disgrace for their efforts. As your nation has dealt with similar travails, any guidance your esteemed nation can provide would be most welcomed by a grateful Altanari nation.

It has come to my attention that Altanar and Krioval have not formally established diplomatic relations as of yet; we would welcome the opportunity to correct this oversight, as nations of a like-minded spirit must of necessity support each other in both moments good and ill.

Again, I thank you for your kindness and support. If there is anything that either I, or my nation, can do to help Krioval as well, please do not hesitate to ask.

Most sincerely,

Aelkyn Aranathas
King of Altanar and Lord of Ael Khalas

(OOC to Findhorn: if you want to post anything else about the party, feel free to do so...we'll just assume the events in this post happen afterwards.)

After the party, at Lord Pyrellis' mansion, Ael Khalas

Several of the nobles, many still dressed in their finery from the party, milled nervously around the room as Lord Pyrellis entered the balcony above. Strangely enough, Pyrellis didn't seem bothered much at all.

"What exactly is going on, Jovan?" Lord Krytellin yelled crossly as Pyrellis stood above them. "First you tell us there's a problem, then when I try to contact my agents at Nalitar House, they tell me to talk to you and hang up! How in the hell have you screwed this up?"

"There are people rioting all over the place out there!" Lord Kankeld roared. "I can't even go home, the roads are sealed off! Tell us what the hell is going on! We want some answers!"

"I am sure you do. But what you want is no longer relevant," Pyrellis said, waving his hand langiudly. "The situation has changed, my dear nobles. Our plan to use Cianar is no longer viable. Therefore, neither are you."

At the wave of Pyrellis' hand, troops from his personal guard quickly lined the balcony above, and blocked off the doors below. The guards raised their AR-67A1 carbines at the crowd of nobles below. The end result was quick, and definitive.

As his guards finished off the nobles and their retainers outside, Pyrellis made a call. "Is the excess baggage disposed of?" Lord Ankrina asked. "Most of it," Pyrellis replied. "Sarkas and Tarabesh didn't show. We'll deal with them later. The rest of them are taken care of. And our 'friend' is ready to move tomorrow. In the meantime, we'll place the 'baggage' in the square as we planned, with directions on who it should point to."

---

The following day, Independence Square, Nalioka

The Nalioka Municipal Police officers patrolling downtown were on edge. The riots that had struck other cities had not reached theirs yet, but word on the street was that it was only a matter of time. "To the seven hells with this," grumbled one of them to his partner. "All I want now is a cup of coffee and to get off my feet." His partner nodded, then stopped suddenly as they entered the square in front of Nalioka Municipal Hall. "By the Pantheon...." he said, shaking and pointing.

The other officer looked to where he was pointing. A large pile of bodies, full of gunshots and burned, met his revolted eyes. A large sign standing in front of them declared, "Down with aristocracy and oppression!" It bore the logo of the opposition group FUNOBLES.

Kappmaan dropped his smile to a more conspiratorial, businesslike look.

"You're absolutely right... but you should also consider this as a more... strategic option, should things get any worse for the royal family."

* * *

Inquisitor Darak stood on the roof of the Imperial embassy building a looked over the city of Ael Khalas. Behind him was the embassy's assigned Aushedar.

"Rioting in the other cities? The end result is rioting in the capital." he mused.

"Correct, sir. I am unsure of our defensive capabilities if the rioting should come to Ael Khalas. We are not prepared for all-out civil disruption, much less civil war." the Aushedar said.

Darak frowned. "Correct. Contact General Taars and have him dispatch a legion of Imperial Guardsmen, preferably under Colonel Huiddel. We can billet them in the bulding and the compound itself. Has Doyin Mag come in yet?"

The Aushedar shook his head. "No yet. We're waiting."

"Very good. You may go."

The Aushedar bowed, and left the Inquisitor looking out over the still peaceful city.

* * *
Council of the Star Chamber, Imperial City, Imperia Prime, Allech-Atreus

lPrivy Councillor Rehashan Allech-Atreus took off his pince-nez and set a datapad back on the table. The three other councillors looked at him.

"Riots, now. And on top of that, intelligence indicates that many of the Altanari nobles have been murdered by radical elements."

There was a collective intake of breath.

"Quite." Rehashan said. "That changed the scope of the action and gave the Council of Five reason to reexamine the Altanari case and refer the matter to us."

Councillor Polyari cleared his throat. "Since this has ceased to be a conflict between nobility and royalty, we must take a more vested interest in the wellbeing of our allies in Altanar. King Aelkyn's government will be much more friendly with our own Empire than would a democratic, radicalist polity."

Councillor Muqtadar nodded in agreement. "Correct. Inquisitor Darak has requested a legion of Guardsmen for the defense of the embassy. I see no reason why we should not give Bashar Kappmaan some added security. I also see no reason why we should not allow the Inquisitor to have some bargaining chips if the situation goes sour. Why don't we have the Directorate send out the Sunfury Legion?"

The other councillors nodded.

Rehashan spoke again. "Very well, we will advise the Emperor that the situation has changed, and that it now warrants the immediate attention of His Most Excellent Imperial Majesty. We will take these steps, and watch as the situation progresses."

Valak Central Command

Encryption Sequence *********** Initialized

To: King Aelkyn of Altanar
From: Serph

Situation devolving? Can come within two hours of request. Regular forces or paladins - or "other". Any level. Hail, be strong.

~ Serph-Kaiyos

Subroutine Complete
Sending..................sent.


OOC: My NSWiki entry needs updating, but the bulk of Krioval remains earthbound. "Regular" means normal soldiers with pretty standard equipment. "Paladins" are fairly self-explanatory, but involve a bit higher tech level than Altanar might want on display - forcefields, area-of-effect stun weapons, and maybe a few subtle mind-based techniques. "Other" means high-level paladins plus their avatars (ex. Serph + Bahamut) - probably things never seen before in Altanar, which might have a certain effect on the population.

[Scene: The Ausserland Embassy.]

Maj. Ee: "Holy shit!"

Amb. Zwedvek: "Eyup. That's putting it mildly. And there's more going on here than we figured on. HRH is ratcheting things up a notch, too. I just got this, which they're gonna put on the news shortly."

To All Diplomatic Missions within Ausserland
cc: Ausserland missions abroad

We have recently been informed that there is some confusion in certain quarters concerning this government's policy relative to the safety of Ausserland's citizens in foreign parts. To eliminate any such confusion, we felt it best to advise all pertinent parties as follows.

The government of Ausserland shall consider any offer of violence to any of its citizens present in a foreign nation by the government of that nation, its instrumentalities, or agents acting on its behalf, or any sub-governmental or quasi-governmental organization, their agents or instrumentalities, to be an act of war. Appropriate measures shall be taken in response. This shall not apply to acts of duly appointed law enforcement authorities acting in performance of their lawful duties as enumerated by the law of the nation.

Questions concerning this policy may be directed to the Hon. Samantha S. Silverhelm, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs (Diplomatic Operations).

By Order of His Royal Highness, the Prince of Ausserland:

/s/
Patrick T. Olembe
Minister for Foreign Affairs

Maj. Ee: "Yeah, and the head shed just took the SOC and the AAF Air Transport wing to OPCON 1."

Amb. Zwedvek: "I'm going to the palace. I think it's called putting one's self in harm's way." [Chortles.]

Maj. Ee: [Rummaging in her satchel, she tosses a couple of bandoliers of ammo over her shoulder and jacks a round in her AR-15.] "Hokay. I'm ready."

"...and now the Ausserlanders are getting involved?!"

"Looks that way, Your Majesty."

"Gods in Heaven. Did they have to use the word war?"

"They are Ausserlanders, Majesty."

"Point, Director." Serph frowned. "This is going from a containable problem to a moderate-sized nightmare. Summon the Directorate for an emergency session, two hours from now. And start getting our people out of there."

"Voluntarily, my Lord, or 'other'?"

"Start with voluntarily."




An Official Statement from the Free Lands of Krioval

http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l88/SilverSerph/WHITECIT.gif
Directorate of Diplomacy and International Affairs

As of 6:00 pm today, the travel alert for the United Kingdom of Altanar has been raised from cautious to restricted. Flights operated by Krioval-based air and space liners are strongly urged to delay or cancel departures for this destination until the situation has improved. All travelers bound for Altanar are encouraged to postpone any non-essential trips; for those whose travel is necessary, please contact your flight operator or the Directorate of Diplomacy and International Affairs as your scheduled time of departure nears. Situations may change rapidly, and departures will reflect this uncertainty.

Any travelers of non-Kriovalian origin unduly inconvenienced by this restriction should report to either their national embassy, consular office, or any police station for assistance.

The Aerie

The mood at Altanar's royal palace was, in a word, frantic.

Aelkyn read the report from Royal Intelligence about the nobles' bodies in Independence Square. "Then it's true?" he said, laying the report back on his desk with a heavy sigh.

"I'm afraid so, sir. Most of the nobles were found there, along with their retainers. At least 30 people. None of them survived," Defense Minister Khaskereth said.

"Who could have done this though? We need answers, and now. Before people start thinking this government had something to do with it," the King said.

Altanar's Royal Intelligence Director, Alicia Kamalek, looked at the Defense Minister. "If I may, sir?" she asked. Khaskereth nodded. "Your Majesty, it is our assessment that the FUNOBLES group could not have pulled off an operation of this magnitude. They only formed a week ago. And they're political parties, not killers."

"Could there be rogue elements of our military or police that did this?" Aelkyn asked, looking squarely at Khaskereth. "It leaves a foul taste in my mouth to even say that, but....it has to be asked."

Khaskereth returned the King's stare evenly. "I will swear on my honor and my position as Defense Minister that this was not our people. If I turn out to be wrong, I will resign immediately. We are investigating that even now, but all of our units are accounted for as of last night. I do not think, for a second, that it was our people."

Aelkyn steepled his fingers. "Where was the last time and place anyone remembers seeing the nobles that died?"

"At the party that was thrown last night," Kamalek said, reading from a datapad. "Wait....a driver for one of the nobles took sick from some of the food and had to be replaced last-minute. He remembers hearing his Lord ordering the new driver to go to Lord Pyrellis' mansion here in town."

Aelkyn and Khaskereth exchanged meaningful looks. "Have Pyrellis' house searched immediately," the King said. "If he's still there, which I doubt, detain him. Issue an APB for all of the nobles that did not get killed last night, for their safety if nothing else. Who are they?"

Kamalek consulted her datapad. "All of them except Lord Sarkas, Lord Inimena, Lady Tarabesh, Lord Pyrellis, Lord Ankrina and Lord Grengath. Their wherabouts are currently unknown, but we're investigating."

"All of them except....oh damnit....is Merak Krytellin among them?" Aelkyn asked, suddenly turning pale. "Unfortunately, he is, your Majesty," Kamalek said. Aelkyn was silent for a long minute. "Does Jaris know?" he asked Khaskereth at last. "It's all over the news, sir, he must know by now," Khaskereth responded solemnly. "And he is on his way here now....damnit...." Aelkyn sighed sadly. "He should be arriving very shortly, your majesty," Kamalek said. "Very well...have him shown here immediately upon his arrival," the King said.

---

At lunch

Khiskithy looked at Kaapmaan solemnly. "This is exactly why everyone except the King himself will be going. The Queen, and her unborn child, are a particular priority. Even if, the gods forbid, his Majesty dies, his line will continue. How soon can your people be ready to receive them?"

---

ASDF camp, Celavan

Sinis Kerilais was poring over a map when his phone rang. "Yes, what is it?" he grumbled, still looking at the map.

"Have you seen the threat the Ausserlanders made? It's all over the news now," Lord Pyrellis said, without preamble.

Kerilais snickered. "And what of it? We won't harm a hair on their pretty little heads....as long as they stay out of this. If they try to help Aelkyn's regime against us, though, they're an enemy, the same as anyone else. Are you scared of them, my noble, brave Lord?" Kerilais said, sarcastically.

"We can't do anything that might bring other countries into this fight! I know the overinflated opinion you have of your 'revolutionary army', but it's a pack of hooligans that can barely take on Aelkyn's military by itself. Bringing other militaries into this on top of that will lead to defeat!" Pyrellis practically shouted into the phone.

"And I know the overinflated opinion you have of yourself as the 'future leader of Akamia', but let's get something straight once and for all, you parasite," Kerilais shouted back, angry now. "Without my army, you're nothing. Your own 'Celavanian Guard' is just a bunch of mercenaries who are barely one step above parking lot security guards and meter maids. When you nobles did nothing for us, it is the ASDF that trained, fought, bled and died for Akamia. Not you. Therefore, I won't listen to the cowardly rantings of a stuffed shirt like you. I will do whatever it takes to free Akamia once and for all from Altanar - and anyone who gets in the way is fair game. So stop wasting my time. If you're so worried about other countries interfering, get off your incompetent rear end and find us some allies of our own!" Kerilais hung up.

* * *
A restaurant in Ael Khalas, Altanar

Kappmaan sat back. "As soon as possible. If the family were to be ready tomorrow, we could take them then. Once they are under the aegis of the Empire, no harm will come to them, I swear on my life. The Emperor himself will recieve them on Imperia Prime, under pretext of a state visit. It won't fool many, but pretense is important."

* * *
Allech-Atreus Embassy Compound, Ael Khalas, Altanar

Inquisitor Darak looked over the troop roster in front of him, mildly surprised.

I expected some excellent troops, the but the Sunfury Legion...?

He looked up at Colonel Huiddel, standing before him.

"Well, Colonel, welcome to Altanar. Currently, your mission is to secure the compound, and if necessary, take to the streets. We have not officially voiced our support for the Aranathan royalty, but I highly suspect that we will."

Huiddel nodded. "Yes, Inquisitor. General Taar asked me to inform you that the Stormrunners, Shadowcats, Warp Spiders, and Steel Fists Legions are standing by. 4,000 Imperial Guardsmen are ready at the warp gate on Gindan, awaiting Imperial orders. I hope it should not come to that."

Darak shook his head. "This conflict has transcended espionage. We are now facing a very dangerous situation."

Somewhere in Krioval

His commconsole crackled as the image resolved. "Majesty, good news."

"I should hope so, Lord Yoshi." Serph looked at the Director fiercely. "What is it, exactly?"

"The Altanari Ministry of State has agreed to formal diplomatic relations with us."

"Not bad for an afternoon's work."

"..."

The Kriovalian king laughed softly. "Come now, Director." He paused. "Thank you. Please prepare Anne Novak-kari for her assignment. We will be leaving shortly."

"I am honored to serve, Majesty."

The link dissolved, and Yoshi's face was replaced by another. "Serph?"

"Director Machida, how can I be of assistance?" he responded, not missing a beat.

"Gods, Serph, I hate when you do that," Ayumi said, rolling her eyes. "Anyway, I thought you might want to know that a certain Empire has been quite active of late."

"And how might you know about this?"

"I thought you didn't want to know," she teased.

"Not the specifics. Just generally."

"Well, Serph, I figure that if I can manage to carry a baby to term, getting a few observers on the ground in Altanar isn't exactly a challenge. Not that they've seen anything the general public can't pick up on, but now that we are..."

The link sputtered with static. "Sorry, Ayumi, you're breaking up. Damn these open channels, so prone to disruption. We'll have to discuss your pregnancy over dinner tonight. Seven o'clock?"

"Soun...ood."

Serph breathed a sigh of relief. "That was a bit closer than I might have liked," he muttered to himself. No telling who might be listening. "Now to write a letter."


* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

To His Highness, the Prince Tang,
The Great Star Empire of Allech-Atreus

First, I must apologize for my abrupt departure from the Drae Nei office party several months ago. Certain problems at home made such a flight practically a necessity. I had enjoyed our conversation to that point, and while I am ashamed to admit I may have monopolized most of it, I found several of the topics we discussed that evening to be quite educational.

For example, while I may have mentioned Kriovalian battle epics, what I may have omitted is their sheer volume - we Kriovallers seem to be born to fight! Strangely enough, it has been nearly a century since our armies have involved themselves in anything other than a small territorial skirmish here and there. We are most glad for our peace, though it has come at the cost of watching friendly nations suffer at the hands of stronger or more ruthless enemies. Such are the tragedies that we should best avoid, I would hope you agree.

I can hear the pens of history's authors scratching out the next volume of Kriovalian epics, and I wonder if some will feature the beating of war-drums, not over vain and prideful acquisitions, but for the safeguarding of righteousness. Perhaps there are those outside my nation who may wish to contribute to such a work. I would be most interested in speaking with you further on this or any other topic on which Your Highness might wish to converse.

Most Cordially,

Serph-Kaiyos, the Light
Free Lands of Krioval

P.S. - It is a shame about the situation in Altanar. If only there were something we could do about that...


OOC: I hope I'm not stepping on too many toes here - I've wanted to RP with both Altanar and Allech-Atreus for a while now, and this looked like a good way to do so. Please let me know if I'm out of line.

"Events have overtaken us," Teo announced, snapping on the screen.

"Oh, stop dramatising," yawned Flick. She and Jaren had been sitting companionably by the fireplace assessing what they'd gained from the party when Teo burst in.

"No, seriously, look," Teo said, waving impatiently at the broadcast, where a list of names was scrolling up.

"That must be the father of that bubblehead I couldn't get rid of," Flick noted, catching a familiar name.

"They're almost all the lords I spoke to last night," said Jaren. "I thought I was subtly pressuring them to act fast -- I wanted them pushed into making mistakes. But it looks as if they've done something rather quicker than I expected. What've they done, Teo?"

"Died."

"What?"

"All of them?"

"Their bodies were found in Independence Square," Teo told them. "Along with 'retainers'; at least, that's what the police radio said. About 30 of them. They'd been shot. And burned. Everyone's blaming FUNOBLES -- not surprisingly, since there was a big sign with their logo stuck right in front of the pile."

He turned to the other Harpers. "You can imagine the effect that's having," he said bitterly. "Look at him!" He gestured to the announcer, whose anguished face belied his professional delivery.

Teo began to pace. "There's a lot of sympathy in the media for FUNOBLES," he explained. "They've been good copy -- staged some stunts, put out some cheeky statements, made fun of the nobles and the King. People were a bit proud of them for just existing. They made Altanar look like a real democracy where everyone could put a point of view. They were good politicians. And now, suddenly, they're good mass murderers ... except, of course, they're not."

"You're very definite about that, Teo."

"I should be. I spent most of last night with them."

Jaren looked skeptical.

"With their leaders," Teo said hotly. "They were .. interested ... in the way I reported the party. They wanted to get to know me. I wanted to get to know them. That's what politicians and journos do. We were talking and drinking, really just relaxing, you know? There were no messages, there was no sudden flurry of aides, no phone calls that couldn't be taken in front of me, nothing. And they weren't expecting any action against them, either. Nobody jumped at odd noises. There was none of the sort of edginess you couldn't hide if there was every chance the cops'd soon be breaking in to round your members up for staging a massacre."

"So who d'y'think did do it, then, Teo?" asked the older being.

"Someone who wasn't as smart as they thought they were."

The two men turned to Flick, who was looking both shocked and smug as she put her phone back in her pocket.

"Remember the airhead from the party? That was her. She woke up this morning under a corpse. I told her I'd come and get her."

It wasn't quite that easy. The others demanded explanations, but Flick had only the barest outline.

"Her father went somewhere boring after the party. He made her go with him, and it was so dull she and her cousin went off to the toilets to take some more of that new drug they're all using here. She must have passed out, because she doesn't remember anything until she woke up at first light this morning and wriggled out from under the corpse."

"Poor kid," Teo sympathised. "So why did she ring you? Someone she's only just met?"

"She figured she didn't know who'd provided all the corpses, but chances were it was another Altanari. So she went for the only people she didn't think would have anything to do with it. Maybe she's not such a dim bulb, after all."

"She will be unless we get to her, fast," Jaren said. "She's a walking corpse herself, if anyone finds out she survived. Where's she hiding, Flick?"

Flick couldn't help but grin.

"In another toilet. Apparently there's a public one on the Square. Okay, I'm off."

As she left, she saw Jaren hold Teo back. At least one of them had realised that two males weren't the best choice to infiltrate the women's toilets.

(OOC to Krioval: No, you're doing just fine. This'll make things more interesting. :) )

IC:

A restaurant in Ael Khalas, Altanar

"We can have them ready to leave by the end of the day today," Khiskithy said to Kaapmaan. "I'm assuming we should deliver them to your embassy for transport."

---

The Aerie

Aelkyn read the message from Serph. At least not everything's going south on us, he thought wryly.

********
[encrypted reply through secure channels]

We recommend sending additional forces to guard your embassy and diplomatic staff. The number of troops you wish to send is entirely up to you. If you wished to send regular forces or paladins to assist us, their presence would be welcome. While we think we can handle what's coming, being prepared is always the smart response. Again, Altanar is most grateful for your friendship.

- Aelkyn
********

He had just finished sending that message off when an Aranathan Guard coughed discreetly. "Milord, Ambassador Krytellin is here to see you, as ordered," he said.

By the Pantheon, I am not looking forward to this, Aelkyn thought, not letting that show on his face. "Show him in at once, please," the King said.

The Jaris Krytellin that Aelkyn knew, and had been friends with for years, was normally an outgoing, engaging person. The man that walked into the throne room was the exact opposite - he looked as if he had aged twenty years in just a few minutes. "Aelkyn....I mean your Majesty...I'm sorry I am late, but...." Jaris choked up, unable to finish.

"Enough of that," Aelkyn said. "I know what you're going through right now....I've lost a parent as well and that pain never ends. If you need to go to your family now, all of this nonsense can wait."

"No, but thank you, old friend," Jaris said, straightening. "I still need to do my duty. My father would have wanted that. Do we know anything about who did this?" he asked, his voice hardening.

"Not yet," Aelkyn replied sadly. "The sign left at the scene claimed it was done by FUNOBLES, but our intelligence suggests it was from another source entirely."

"I should hope so....I was not a member of FUNOBLES, but I am a member of the MDP, which is one of the parties in that group. They'd never do something that vile," Jaris said.

"I don't think they would either, but I think I know who might be. How well did your family know Lord Pyrellis?"

"Pyrellis? An arrogant bastard, who's always hated this nation but was too cowardly to show it. Is he behind this?" Jaris replied angrily.

"He might be. We're trying to find him now. The last place anyone saw these nobles alive - including your father - was his house," Aelkyn said.

"If he is my father's killer, I demand the right to take his head. Let me do it, not some government executioner. If he is guilty, he needs to pay for what he's done," Jaris said, shaking.

"And he will, trust me," Aelkyn replied. "I did not agree with most of the nobles, but this is still murder. If Pyrellis is responsible, I'll put the blade in your hand myself to end his miserable existence. I swear that on my family's honor," the King said.


"Thank you for that," Jaris said, sighing. "Has anyone attended to my mother?"

"We've sent counselors from the Nalioka University Medical Center to help her, along with a team of soldiers to guard her. You should go to her now," Aelkyn said. "We can talk about this situation later."

"Thank you, Aelkyn," Jaris said, clasping the King's hand warmly, and turning to leave.

"If you follow me, Lord Krytellin, we will escort you safely home," the guard said. "What did you call me?" Jaris snapped at him, ashen-faced.

"Jaris.....with your father's passing, you are now the Lord of Nalioka...." Aelkyn said softly.

"I don't care! I don't want it! I never did. Even my father knew that!" Jaris yelled.

"I know, and so did he. But this is part of duty. You have a chance now to show everyone what the Altanari nobility can really be - what it was meant to be. If you can do that for us all, you'll be doing a great thing to honor your father's memory. I hate to ask it, you know that...but can you?" Aelkyn replied, almost hesitantly.

Jaris sighed, staring at the wall. After a long pause, he said softly, "My father always said you cannot escape your destiny. I guess he was right after all." With that, he turned and walked out of the room.

Aelkyn stared after him silently. A King has to be a manipulative bastard sometimes. But he doesn't have to like it.

---

Public bathroom, Independence Square

A well-dressed woman, her finery dirty and bloodied, sat shivering in one of the womens' stalls, waiting for the "friend" she had made at the party to come rescue her.

Allech-Atreus UN Office, United Nations Building, Somewhere

Rang Erman, ambassador pro tem, was sitting and enjoying a fine cigar in the Delegate's Lounge. Prince Tang was still away in the Empire tending to royal business, so he was serving as the current speaker on most issues. He didn't care much- it was more a game to him than anything else.

He was about to take a sip of brandy and contemplate the setting sun when Selvia Mannuschrat, the workhorse secretary of the office, came in.

"Messages for you from Eistar Kappmaan in Altanar." she said, handing him a datapad. He quickly scanned the missive... events developing in Altanar... royal family no longer safe... coming to the Empire for a "state visit."

He finished reading and set down the pad, taking that sip of brandy. He looked out the window and spoke.

"They'll be here tomorrow. Get the Pulsars we have on staff ready to escort them through the warp gate to Imperia Prime... I want everything secure, and I mean completely secure- the ductworks, the doors, the windows, everything. I don't want any Yeldan Destructor Bunnies or Cobdenian spies getting involved in this. And make sure food is prepared for them- make it seem like everything is normal and comfortable, maybe even give them a fine dinner in the Lounge."

Selvia nodded. "Right away. Our other halves in the Empire will be informed."

* * *
A restaurant, Ael Khalas, Altanar

The ambassador took one last sip of his drink and nodded gravely.

"Under pretense of an official visit, I will come to the Aerie with my guards and personal car. We'll take them back to the compound, and send them out. I'll set up contacts with our UN Office to send them through the warp gate to our capital. You have it on my honor as a Bashar the they will be safe."

He made to rise, but he stopped.

"Once the King's enemies find out- and I'm sure they will find out- that the royal family has come to Allech-Atreus for safekeeping, they will surely try to reach them in my country. If they manage to divine their whereabouts in a nation of over 200 planets, and if they manage to get past the finest and most feared intelligence agents in the Empire, then they will be caught by the personal guards that we will give your people for their defense. You may mark me, that will never happen. Should your enemies try to find entrance into the Empire, they will discover themselves on a deserted world, surrounded by very angry and disappointed soldiers."

He stood up this time, and started to walk past his Altanari counterpart and friend. Putting his hand on his shoulder, he leaned in to whisper.

"If things get rough, we will help you and your colleagues too. Don't forget."

With that, he left the restaurant.

Tarusen Temple

He arrived without anybody noticing, a trick honed by years of paladic training. The Temple of the Waters loomed on the horizon. Ordinarily, Serph might have simply flown to the religious complex directly, but he didn't want all of Krioval to know about his private adventures-to-be. At the very least, the plans needed to be kept secret until after takeoff.

The Kriovalian monarch availed himself of several little-known passages that inexorably led from smaller building to larger, until he emerged in the High Priest's study. Koro Vartek looked up almost indifferently, by now used to his former mentor's surreptitious comings and goings.

"Good afternoon, Your Majesty," Koro said simply.

"Your Grace."

"To what do I owe the pleasure, Lord Serph?"

"I seek the blessing of the Gods for what is to come."

"For that you do not need me." The red-haired young man smiled warmly. "What troubles you, Serph, that you seek me out? Certainly not the prospect of battle."

"Basch and I ride tonight. Should we...be long, you will be next in line for control of the government."

"Now I know why some would call you evil, saying such things to me. No, you will not die - to kill you would take far more than bullets or plasma bolts. He won't let that happen, in any case. And you would never allow the Lord-General to come to lasting harm, by the sheer force of your will."

"I can accept that," Serph replied.

"Wonderful. Now, I have something for your trip." Koro opened a chest and took out a silver helm. "Rescued from the Monastery. Somehow, it survived the explosions. As for paladic garb, I had the Lady Ayumi go through your things and send one over."

"There are days I almost regret teaching you how to mind-link, young Lord Vartek."

Koro flicked his left hand upward in dismissal. "Piffle. You love each and every moment of it. If it were up to you, all Krioval would dance to tune only you could perceive."

"Who says it doesn't?" Serph lifted the helm and inspected it. "This is the same one I had that night."

"Correct. Now, then, it is getting late. Time to fly into the setting sun, is it not?"

"And to return with it in the morning. Until then, my friend."

"Go with the Gods, Serph."



Valak Central Command


The king looks more a paladin now, and several technicians are forced to look away from the white and silver that reflects the indoor lighting. None are sufficiently bold to mention that Serph seems to "reflect" light even when in shadow. Basch looks like the anti-Serph. He exudes the purest of the divine darkness, and between them, one would be hard-pressed to say which inspired more awe - or more fear.

They pointed variously to small groups of soldiers or paladins, and the groups moved fluidly to transport vessels. The Lady Anne Novak boarded one of them, and the remainder of the diplomatic staff crowded into the others. Once filled, the ships waited for orders.

The Lord-General and King stepped onto a lift platform and rose to the roof. Minutes later, there were two brief flashes of light, two shrill howls, and two distinct thuds. Then came notification they were airborne.

"Commander Hogan."

"Yes, General."

"Announce standing orders."

"Standing orders, operation Diplomatic Impunity. Enter Altanari airspace and establish the Lady Novak at our embassy. Half remain to safeguard the embassy, half pretend to be clueless while gathering intelligence. Chain of command as normal."

"Correct. No uncoded messages. Move out."

Bahamut and Tiamat rose far above the diplomatic convoy and closed distance. Basch spoke first. "What is the plan? We can't just fly up to the palace and knock on the front door."

"No?"

"You can't be seriously considering it."

"Why not?"

"...well...actually, it might work, under the circumstances."

"Good. You'll cover me, then."

Basch smirked. "Don't I always."



From the convoy, a message was sent. "Krioval is on the way."

The Aerie

"So the plans for our travel have been set?" Cianar asked his son.

"Yes, they have. A group from the Allech-Atreus embassy will come here on a 'visit'. They will pick you up, and deliver you to a safe place," Aelkyn said.

"I understand why you're sending us there," Melika said, a little crossly. "But I don't like the idea of leaving you here to face these jackals all alone."

"Of course you don't - you're a typical Argali," Aelkyn teased her. "Ready to pick a fight with the best of them."

"I'm serious, Aelkyn," Melika replied. "It doesn't seem fitting somehow to be running away."

"I know...but there are more important things. Like keeping you alive. And our child," Aelkyn reminded her.

"Do you really think it'll get that bad?" Cianar asked him. "We can't discount the possibility. The death of the nobles has brought this matter to a completely different level," Aelkyn said. "But we know somewhat to expect now. And we have friends as well. We'll get through this, and you'll be able to come back home soon enough."

---

All domestic Altanari networks began broadcasting a bulletin on their news segments, indicating that Lord Sarkas, Lady Tarabesh, Lord Pyrellis, Lord Inimena, Lord Ankrina and Lord Grengath were now wanted individuals, to be detained on sight. Images appeared showing Royal Police units storming their homes in the capital, in some cases apparently exchanging gunfire with guards.

It was the middel of the night in Ael Khalas, and Inquisitor Darak was not happy. He had been woken from his first full night's sleep in a week, told to get his uniform on, and get to the embassy building. Five minutes later, he was stalking down the hall of the eigth floor of the Imperial Embassy, coming to the ambassador's office. Opening the door, he was confronted with the image of the Ambassador sitting in his desk, talking to a person facing away from the Inquisitor.

"He should be here any minute- ah, Inquisitor." Kappmaan said, gesturing to the newly-arrived Darak.

The figure in the chair turned around, and Darak snapped to attention. The quiet, restrospective visage of High Lord General Adhirilan Taar (http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a188/kuroutesshin/180px-Pope-benedict-xv-01.jpg) greeted him.

"My Lord General. I was not expecting you."

Taar smiled, looking out from under his glasses, a look of peace and surety on his face. "And I was expecting you, Velren."

Darak sat in another chair in front of the ambassador's desk. "Might I ask, sir, why you have come? The High Command would not have dispatched you unless there was some great need."

Kappmaan broke in. "The Lord General arrived just a short while ago. Doyin Mag also came in to report.

Taar nodded. "Quite. I had expected merely to allow Colonel Huiddel the honor of commanding the Sunfuries, but circumstances have come to the High Government's attention that warrant immediate action on our part." he adjusted his glasses. "I am assuming command of the forces. You will remain as my assistant. My presence here is not to be known by the Altanari, Ambassador Kappmaan remains the nominal head of our embassy."

Darak nodded in agreement, Kappmaan yawned.

"Sir, might I ask what the developments were? What has transpired?"

The General smiled knowingly.

"I'm afraid that I cannot reveal that just yet. Do not fret, all will become clear in time."

* * *
Earlier, Temple of the Avata Husmangaiyu, Danbus IV, Allech-Atreus

The sound of glattering metal and wood brought Acolyte Kish running. On the ground, his lover Tiras lay, shaking quietly. With a cry, he dropped to his knees.

"By the gods, what happened!? Tiras, speak to me!" he cried.

His eyes flew open, pure white, and he looked directly at his fellow acolyte and lover. His mouth twisted into a horrific, anguished snarl, and he spoke.

Son of Rakash, bow before your Lord! Avata Dahrasanna comes for the soul of the one true Scion, made the last in blood and spirit! Successor to two thrones, mortal and heavenly!" a deep, booming voice spoke from Tiras' body.

Kish, in terror, dropped the body of Tiras and scrambled away on his hands and knees, screaming. Other acolytes came running, and the Speaker, an old man who tended to the Avatar's image, pushed his way through, his brown robes flying. When he saw the acolyte on the floor, his eyes bright and white, he turned pale and uttered a prayer before falling to his knees.

"Torn by strife the earth gives up the truth, in blood the old is turned away! Made in agony and loss, he is revealed! Seek out the lonely son, bound by law! Bearer of the holy of holies, he shall wake a fire in the great univserse! Two thrones he has, but neither has he claimed! Avata Dahrasanna, seeker of the darkness, comes for the soul of the one true Scion, to bring the cleansing fire!"

With those words, Tiras' face contorted again, and with a high scream, he went limp. Scrambling to him, Kish lifted him up and cradled his head in his arms, whimpering.

The old Speaker slowly rose to his feet and walked slowly to the prostrate form, before once again falling to his knees. In a cracked voice he spoke.

"The Avata Husmangaiyu has spoken through this young, innocent form. A new Avatar has been found... and the Scion is revealed."

Looking up, he saw that higher ranking temple monks had come. With tears of joy in his eyes, he again spoke.

"The Scion is come. Consult the oracles and inform the Son of Heavens... the Scion is come..."

He turned back to the softly crying acolyte, cradling the unconcious form of his love, and closed his eyes, a prayer on his lips.

The political group FUNOBLES issued a statement to the media, denouncing the death of the nobles and disavowing any involvement. "This is just an attempt to smear the name of the political opposition with an evil act," the statement read. "While we did not want the nobles in power, we did not want them harmed either. We join the outraged calls for justice in this matter and an investigation to track this crime to its source - whatever it may be."

Sarkas Manor, Po province

A small armored vehicle hastily pulled into the fortified Sarkas compound, raising a cloud of dust. The guards hastily closed the gates behind it.

Lord Sarkas stepped out of the vehicle. The guards saluted him. He returned their salutes as he walked inside. Lady Tarabesh was with him. "You were right about Pyrellis," Sarkas told her once they were inside. "Of course I was," Tarabesh replied crossly. "I can't believe the rest of those idiots trusted that Akamian backstabber. Well, so much the better. We can achieve a lot more without them."

Sarkas and Tarabesh walked into the main chamber. Several men and women waited for them there. All of them had uniforms of various Altanari military branches, with insignia indicating they were local commanders. Sarkas walked up and greeted them warmly - having been in the military before, these were all old friends.

The commander of the local Altanari Army garrison got right to the point. "You're both wanted people now. We could put ourselves in high esteem with the King by handing you over. Why should we support you like you're wanting? Friendship only goes so far, Sarkas."

"Because you've served with me," Sarkas said. "You know what kind of man I am, and why you should follow me instead of that whelp Aelkyn. He's opened up our borders, let in all sorts of foreigners, and now he's trying to tear down every institution we've spent our lives defending. He's just too radical, too impulsive. We need to have leadership that will restore and protect the Altanar that we have always believed in."

"But how can we win?" another Army man said. "The Royal Guards and the Royal Police support Aelkyn."

"We can take the ones here out easily enough. I've got my men, and the Provincial Guards that'll support me. If you back me also, we can take control of this province. From there, that's where my Lady here comes in," Sarkas said, gesturing to Tarabesh.

Tarabesh stepped forward. "I've managed to secure a large amount of my fortune in places that Aelkyn's investigators will never find it. With your support, and my money, we can hold Aelkyn off until we can show the people why his reign needs to end. The longer that we can hold out, the more people we can sway to our side. But you have to have the courage to fight for it. Besides, Pyrellis is going to lead the Akamians to revolt. Who do you trust more to crush that revolt and keep Altanar whole - Aelkyn, or my lord Sarkas?"

The Army commander sighed heavily. "If it was anyone else asking this, Sarkas, I'd tell them to go to the seven hells. But you both raise good points. And, may the gods help me, I don't trust Aelkyn to do the right thing here. All he's done with his craziness is disrupt our nation. I'll back your play. But you better pull it off."

[Having bullied... er... negotiated her way into the Royal Palace, Ambassador Zwedvek hurries to the King. Major Ee trudges along behind.]

"Hullo, Your Majesty. No time for diplomatic fancy talk. Here's the deal...."

[She hands him a copy of the Foreign Ministry notice.]

"I have strict orders from Prince Leonhard. There are four of us: me, Major Ee here, Colonel Hardblade and Harmony Perun. Our orders are that we stick to you like superglue. Wherever you go, two of us will be there. If they want to do a hit on you, they're gonna have to take a couple of us out too. Bingo. Act of war. Not much of a way to start a take-over, huh? If you have a problem with this, here's my cell phone. The Ministry will patch you through to the Prince. If you can get him to call us off, OK. But, with all respect, Your Majesty, unless he does, we follow our instructions unless you have us hauled out kicking and screaming."

The King laughed heartily at Ambassador Zwedvek's statement. "I certainly appreciate the sentiment, and I'd normally be glad to have you around...but the people we're dealing with don't care about that. They'll still try to attack me, most likely, no matter who is standing next to me at the time. These are people who had no problem with killing 30 people and dumping their bodies in a public square, or in planning to kill my wife and her unborn child. I don't think you understand quite how ruthless these people can be, and I am reluctant to put you in a situation where you could be harmed."

As the Ausselanders were speaking with the King, Ambassador Kappmaan was on his way to the Aerie for the "state meeting" with the king. His black limousine was flanked by cars holding Imperial Guardsmen, and the flags bearing the Great Seal of the Empire fluttered from the front bumpers of each car.

Inside, Kappmaan tried to distract himself by reading todays copy of the Union Sun, but couldn't. He looked up from the paper at Djem Mag, sitting across from him, absentmindedly poking his neck. Kappmaan grinned and looked out the window.

The King laughed heartily at Ambassador Zwedvek's statement. "I certainly appreciate the sentiment, and I'd normally be glad to have you around...but the people we're dealing with don't care about that. They'll still try to attack me, most likely, no matter who is standing next to me at the time. These are people who had no problem with killing 30 people and dumping their bodies in a public square, or in planning to kill my wife and her unborn child. I don't think you understand quite how ruthless these people can be, and I am reluctant to put you in a situation where you could be harmed."

[Major Ee fidgets while the King speaks. Before the Ambassador can respond, the Major pipes up.]

"Look, Your Majesty, there are a couple things I think we need to get straight. First, the key word here is "try". [Taps her assault rifle.] This ain't exactly a lollipop I'm toting. And Harmony and Colonel Herb ain't exactly babes in the woods. Second, these people may be vicious skunks, but maybe they're smart enough to realize that taking over a kingdom that's immediately in a state of war isn't exactly a good move. Third, you're not putting us where we could be harmed. Prince Leonhard did that. So no need for a guilt trip."

The King grins at Ee. "You do make good points. Very well. Hopefully my enemies aren't stupid enough to take such a risk, but if they are, we'll just have to put them down before they have a chance to do that kind of harm." Aelkyn gestured to his Royal Intelligence Director. "Alicia, can you give our Ausserlander friends everything we have so far on this situation?"

"Of course, your Majesty," Kamalek said, pulling out a datapad and offering it to Ee. "This is what we know, or suspect, so far. Lord Pyrellis seems to be pulling the strings, but losing his control over the King's father seems to have forced them to change plans last-second. We think that they will now try to assassinate the Royal Family, and stage some kind of revolt. But there is one variable that has me thinking something else is going on here."

"And what would that be?" Aelkyn said.

"The fact that except for Sarkas and Tarabesh, every single noble that has survived is an Akamian one," Kamalek said thoughtfully.

Meanwhile, at the front entrance of the Aerie, the Aranathan Guards opened the gates for the Allech-Atreus limousine to enter.

Kappmaan had eschewed his normal suit and war wearing official court robes, glittering with silk brocade and brilliant gems. His personal bodyguards, Imperial Guardsmen of the Sunfury Legion, were dressed in their fine livery, a stylized sunburst on their shoulders. Doyin Mag was wearing the brilliant red uniform of an Aushedar of the Agundan, a red cape swirling around him.

They proceeded through the halls to the audience chamber where the King and his family would recieve them. An aide, dressed in white robes, accompanied the ambassador, carrying a briefcase and a datapad.

Coming before the king and the Ausserlanders, Kappmaan removed his hat and bowed low at the waist before the Altanari sovereign, as did his men. He nodded his head in respect to the Ausserlanders.

"Your Majesty." he said.

There are some difficulties in extricating a wounded female in evening dress from a murder scene. Flick solved them by a combination of arrogance, speed and deceit. The "Findhornian Ambassador's drunken daughter" was whisked discreetly from the scene.

The Honourable Bethia Haraspar was in no state to argue. Slumped in semi-consciousness in the passenger seat, she swayed bonelessly with the car's progress, moaning at bumps and swerves. Flick, concentrating on smooth driving, couldn't do anything about it. She'd have to get them safe home before she could try to muster her unreliable healing gift.

Teo, news-junkie to his fingertips, couldn't simply wait for Flick's return. Impatiently he surfed his employer's site, clicking from one "citizen-journalist's" fuzzy video-clip to the next. An unusually clear, unshaky offering caught his eye.

"...has declared the formation of the People's Soviet of Harasparton and confiscated the estates of the former Lord Haraspar," a thick-set man was saying.

He clenched both fists, took a deep breath and continued, almost hectoring the camera, "Said estates will, however, be leased back to him and his family on a renewable 99-year lease, on payment of a peppercorn rent and on condition that he agrees to serve as executive officer for the Soviet's holdings." The camera panned to a dilapidated library inside a great house. "In view of the failure of Lord Haraspar to properly maintain the historic and valuable library of Haraspar House, it has been sequestered to the Soviet. Former Lady Bethia Haraspar has been appointed People's Librarian. She will be required to live on-site to ensure unfettered public access to the library's resources."

Teo and Jaren were already laughing as the man continued, "The People's Soviet has decided to retain some titles from the times of oppression, as they enshrine the historic struggles of the workers. Therefore the titles of Mayor and Councillor will remain. However, I am stepping down from my position as Mayor of Harasparton to serve as Deputy Mayor under the new mayor, the former Lord Haraspar."

The man leaned into the frame, lower jaw thrust forward aggressively. "The People's Soviet emphasises that the two Citizens Haraspar are now legally elected civic officials and any untoward acts against them will be met with the full power of Altanaran law. The People's Soviet of Harasparton declares its undying loyalty to the State of Altanar. Hail Altanar!"

Jaren and Teo's splutters drowned the closing shot, a mass singing of what a generous audience might accept as The Red Flag. "Brilliant!" Jaren choked. "They've managed to position themselves as extreme supporters of FUNOBLES while at the same time keeping their own nobles in the style to which they're all accustomed."

"The people's right to choose. That's what we're here to support," Teo laughed, then abruptly sobered. "They evidently haven't heard yet that Haraspar's one of the bodies in the square."

"Mmm. And Flick's airhead is now Lady Haraspar. It sounds as if they'd look after her, though, if we could get her to them ..."

Jaren stood gazing unseeingly at the screen while Teo, recalled to what was happening around them, began preparing for the reception of a wounded, perhaps dying, fugitive. It was no new task for a Harper.

Ael Khalas - Kriovalian Embassy

The diplomatic convoy arrived first, as planned, and established itself with a minimum of fuss. This was in large part due to Commander Natalie Hogan's complete disdain for bullshit, and for her lack of reticence to call it exactly that. The embassy staff had been installed by two-thirty in the morning local time.

Anne Novak, now Ambassador to Altanar, looked on in satisfaction as the bustling gradually wound down. "I believe now would be a good time," she said, and punched in a command on her commconsole. "The situation in Altanar..."

The message flew through the ether back to Krioval, where Director Yoshi Takahara sat in his office, on the off chance that a message might be arriving, despite that it was nearly midnight in Torokara. "...is beginning to..."

It was relayed back across the darkness, to Serph, who was clearly unsurprised. "...deteriorate rapidly. We request assistance."

"Well then," the King of Krioval said lightly, "I suppose there is no recourse."

Basch looked at the other man. "You live for this, don't you?"

Serph grinned. "Onward, Bahamut!"

Together, the two riders crossed into Altanari airspace a scant five minutes after Ambassador Novak's signal, heading toward the embassy. Bahamut soared into the sky, his flashiness designed for optimal distraction, while Tiamat, carrying the Lord-General, descended onto the embassy complex in cover of darkness.

"KYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRR!" Bahamut's shriek rattled the ground.

"What the fuck is wrong with you?!" came Natalie's voice.

"Commander!" Basch warned.

"I apologize," she said acidly. "What the fuck is wrong with Your Majesty?"

"Many things, Commander Hogan, though a full psychoanalysis session will have to wait. I'll be back by dawn. Keep things in order until then."

"...as you wish. Should Her Excellency the Ambassador send word that you're coming, or would you like to keep your visit a surprise?" Despite her best efforts, Natalie's sarcasm continued unabated.

"Notify His Majesty, and tell him I intend to arrive within the next ten minutes. I trust that he will know where to look."

Several minutes later, something like a multicolored shooting star flew across the Altanari capital and began to circle the palace grounds, not quite crossing the presumptive barrier dividing it from the rest of Ael Khalas.

Paling?

Already set, my Lord Serph.

I figured as much. This is why I like you far more than Tiamat, Serph teased.

And that is why I like you far more than Tiamat.

General Taar, taking a midnight walk on the roof of the embassy building, looked up to see the bright light that circled the Aerie before setting down.

He contemplated the sight for a moment, and then looked toward the western sky. He blinked, and for an instant rosy red tendrils rose from the horizon, snaking up toward the starry night sky. He blinked again, and they were gone.

He looked back to the Aerie, the lights of the city illuminating the centre of government. Thinking on the sight, he smiled briefly, pulling a small book from his robes. He flipped it over to a specific page, placed his finger on a line, and began to read.

"Two thrones shall be held for the joining of earth and heaven, when the peoples who were scattered will be awoken. From the great mass of the ancient world will come the son of humanity, who will set a flame in the shape of a lion, roaring. By the roaring star he is beckoned, by the innocent youth he is heralded."

Taar closed the book lightly, and looked once more at the night sky, the pole star shining brightly. His smile disappeared, and he walked slowly back into the building.

[Harmony Perun hurries into the throne room and hands a piece of paper to the Ambassador. She's just printed it out from the internet via her laptop. She's grinning. As she reads the paper, Ambassador Zwerdvek starts to grin too. She hands the paper to the King.]

"Your Majesty, I think you'll want to read this."

A PROCLAMATION

I, Leonhard Ottmar Falk von Alteweide, Prince of Ausserland, do herewith proclaim that our royal cousins, Aelkyn of Altanar and his Queen Consort, Melika, their heirs and assigns, are from this date honorary citizens of the Principality of Ausserland.

In accordance with the Citizenship Act of 1912, they shall be afforded all the rights, privileges, and protections due the citizenry of this realm. All officers of the government are commanded to take heed.

Given under my hand and seal this date of 12 February 2007:

Leonhard

Attest:

Ærnoud B. Vlyminck, J.D., D.C.L.
Minister for Justice and Attorney General

Harmony Perun: "They're gonna be moving this on the newswires in a few minutes, they said."

Ambassador Zwedvek: "Nifty!"

Aelkyn gave a respectful nod to Ambassador Kaapmaan. "Ambassador, welcome once again to the Aerie. I wish it were under better circumstances, but I am most grateful for your presence here, and that of your companions. You have met my wife, of course, but I do not know if you have met my father," Aelkyn said, as Melika and Cianar stepped forward.

Aelkyn read the document handed to him by Harmony Perun. "That is most generous of Prince Leonhard. Please convey to him my personal gratitude. We are indebted to both Ausserland and Allech-Atreus for the great help your nations have been to us in this time of trouble."

A guard stepped forward. "Your Majesty, there is a message for you."

"I'm sorry, please excuse me a moment," Aelkyn said, walking over to the guard. "I have a message from King Serph of Krioval, milord. He shall be arriving shortly." the guard said.

"Indeed? Well, when he gets here, bring him to the throne room, with all the respect a visiting head of state deserves," Aelkyn said. "At once, milord," the guard replied, rushing off.

---

The Altanari Ministry of Justice issued the following statement in response to the Ael Khalas Union-Sun publishing a video declaring a "People's Soviet of Harasparton":

"The former Lord Haraspar, who is now deceased, is suspected of high treason and plotting against the Altanari government. As such, if these accusations are proven true, any and all properties of his, as well as any other nobles involved in this treason, shall immediately become the property of the Altanari government, and it shall be the sole responsibility of the newly constituted Peoples' Assembly, as the legislative branch of this nation, to determine their disposition. This is pursuant to the High Treason Acts of 1937. While we are not planning to use force at this time to evict anyone currently occupying nobles' properties, we reserve the right to secure these properties if necessary, and advise anyone occupying said properties to relinquish them peacefully. We are also compelled to note that, in accordance with the Altanari Constitution of 1936, municipal and provincial leadership can only be emplaced through public elections, held in accordance with all applicable electoral laws. As a result, the Altanari government, and the provincial government of Gennor Province, do not recognize this quasi-authority. The municipal and provincial officials that have already been elected in those regions are, and shall remain, in authority there."

In another announcement, the State Court announced that they were declining to render a judgement in the case of the nobles' disenfranchisement, due to the fact that all of the plaintiffs were now either deceased or accused of treason, rendering the matter a moot issue. The State Court also declared that, in their judgment, the situation in Altanar constituted an emergency, thus allowing King Aelkyn to make the changes he desired. When asked by a reporter about the rationale behind that decision, Chief Justice Manar Kenae replied sarcastically, "We have nobles being turned into catfood in public squares, riots, pseudo-communist communes springing up, fighting in the streets, and borderline open revolts against the King. If that's not an emergency to you, what is?"

Hall of the Pantheon, Altana Hol

The Council of the Church of Altanar gathered once again, to hear the decision of High Priest Melakis IV. "We've all been following the situation, so I'll get right to the point, brothers and sisters," Melakis said flatly. "I have decided that the Holy Church must support the King in this matter."

The murmurs of assent around the table were suddenly broken by a strident voice. "You want us to support the King that has brought discord to our people, and foreign religions into our lands to taint the True Faith? How can this be so?" the Archpriest of Lukisha demanded.

"He is, by law and by natural right, the King and liege lord of us all. More to the point, he is not the one who decided to kill over thirty people and leave them in public, desecrated and shamed, and unable to enter the seven heavens in the grace of our gods and goddesses," Melakis replied. "How can you, brother, support ones who do such things?"

"I support those who support the True Faith, Melakis," the Archpriest replied. "Aelkyn does not, else he would take up the mantle of Protector of the Faith that kings of old wore with pride, and drive the false religions out of our lands. And if you support such a King, as far as I am concerned, you do not support the Faith either!"

"That is enough!" Melakis thundered. "One more word out of you, and by Tela's name, you will be excommunicated and banished! Now be silent!"

"You will not have to hear me anymore, Melakis, never fear," the Archpriest said coldly. "And to be blunt, you know what you can do with your threats of excommunication. The only ones who can truly banish me from the embrace of the Pantheon are our gods and goddesses themselves, the ones you've forgotten. You're more concerned with being on what you think the winning side will be than with renewing the Faith. I will not be numbered with such sinners." The Archpriest stood up and marched towards the doors.

"That tears it! In Tela's name, you are excommunicated! You are Archpriest of Lukisha no longer! Leave this holy place at once!" Melakis yelled.

"That title is not yours to take away, false High Priest, betrayer of the Faith," the Archpriest said bitterly. "The Pantheon placed me where I am, not you. And it is you who are excommunicated, not I." The Archpriest stormed out of the room. Before Melakis' stunned eyes, the Archpriests of Ektar and Staria followed him out the door.

"Your Holiness, what should we do now?" Melakis' assistant nervously asked him.

"We tell the King what is about to happen. And then we pray for everyone in Altanar. Because they will need it," Melakis replied sadly.

A minor functionary (so minor he doesn't even have a name) hurries up to the King and hands him a message just received.

PERSONAL FOR: His Majesty, King Aelkyn of Altanar
FROM: Nohea Kaewe, President of Wailele Island

I wanted to personally inform Your Majesty that a small task group of the Wailele Island Coastal Patrol Service has taken up station approximately one mile outside the territorial waters of your nation. In this unsettled time, I wanted to be sure that Your Majesty was personally aware of the existence, location, and mission of this task group. It will be conducting oceanographic research.

The task group consists of two corvettes, the WINS Hautoa and the WINS Lanakila, and a commercial steamship currently in government service, the WISS Coastal Queen, escorted by four patrol/attack boats. Two companies of the 2nd Infantry Regiment, Wailele Island Defense Force, are embarked on the steamship to provide on-board security. The task group is under the command of Captain Mahilai Alaula, WICPS. No port call is expected unless exigencies require.

Any questions you may have about the task group may be addressed to the Ambassador of Ausserland in Ael Khalas, who represents my nation's interests.

Best personal regards,

/s/ Nohea Kaewe

Aelkyn gave a respectful nod to Ambassador Kaapmaan. "Ambassador, welcome once again to the Aerie. I wish it were under better circumstances, but I am most grateful for your presence here, and that of your companions. You have met my wife, of course, but I do not know if you have met my father," Aelkyn said, as Melika and Cianar stepped forward.

Aelkyn read the document handed to him by Harmony Perun. "That is most generous of Prince Leonhard. Please convey to him my personal gratitude. We are indebted to both Ausserland and Allech-Atreus for the great help your nations have been to us in this time of trouble."

A guard stepped forward. "Your Majesty, there is a message for you."

"I'm sorry, please excuse me a moment," Aelkyn said, walking over to the guard. "I have a message from King Serph of Krioval, milord. He shall be arriving shortly." the guard said.

"Indeed? Well, when he gets here, bring him to the throne room, with all the respect a visiting head of state deserves," Aelkyn said. "At once, milord," the guard replied, rushing off.



The Ambassador bowed again to the elderly Arnathas. "Your excellency, a pleasure to meet you. May I introduce Aushedar Djem Mag, special intelligence attache."

He gestured toward Mag, who bowed low to the former King and smiled. "Your excellency, I am glad to see you again, and in good health. I hope your trip from Nalitar House was an easy one."

Cianar grinned at Mag. "It wasn't, but nothing I couldn't handle. I'm glad you're not actually dead, now that I know whose side you're on," he laughed.

---

RADF Command Center, Po Province

Royal Guards Commander Akin Merath walked into the section of the CC reserved for his unit, mentally going over the latest report from Central Command in Ael Khalas. He noticed the local Army commander, Gerak Perispath, standing in the middle of the command center. "We're supposed to go out to Sarkas Manor, and look for the Lord and his family - "

"You won't have to look any longer, Commander," a man standing next to Perispath said, turning around.

"Sarkas!" gasped Merath. He went for his sidearm, only to see ten Army soldiers level their rifles at him.

"Please don't try to resist, Akin," Perispath said. "You'll only make this harder than it has to be."

"What in the seven hells do you think you're doing?" Merath said angrily, as the soldiers relieved him of his weapons and communications devices.

"We're doing what we have to do, Merath," Sarkas said. "We're preserving Altanar as it should be. You can help us, or face the inevitable. You choose."

"You're insane, Sarkas. I'll never betray the King," Merath said.

"The King has already betrayed you, and all of us. If you cannot see that now, hopefully you will soon. I'd hate to have to kill you. Take him away," Sarkas ordered the soldiers.

As they escorted Merath to the brig, Perispath asked Sarkas, "Now what?"

"Now, we begin taking this province over. From there, we will see what Aelkyn does," Sarkas said.

Cianar grinned at Mag. "It wasn't, but nothing I couldn't handle. I'm glad you're not actually dead, now that I know whose side you're on," he laughed.


Kappmaan gave a wry, trying smile to Mag. "I was only informed of Aushedar Mag's missions the other day. At least the only lie was about who employed him- I believe that you will enjoy Allech-Atreus while you are there, your Excellency."

He turned back Aelkyn.

"Your Majesty, with your permission I will take your family into the custody of the Great Star Empire. We shall treat them as persons of great importance, afforded every advantage and courtesy as befits their station and personage. On behalf of the Empire, I do promise that no harm will come to them."

Mag reached into his pocket and took out a small metallic box, about the size of a package of post-it notes. Walking to a nearby door, he opened the door, looked inside, closed the door, and stuck the box on it. He opened it again, and the scene had changed. Looking back at him from the other side was Inquisitor Darak, flanked by Pulsar Guards, standing in the basement office of the Aushedar in the Imperial Embassy.

Turning back to the group, Mag spoke. "For safety, please travel with me. The ambassador will return to the embassy in the convoy to distract any ill-wishers."

Serph and the dragon watched for signs of activity below. When nothing particularly caught their attention, they dropped from the sky, landing with a tremendous thud just outside what appeared to be the main gates to the Aerie. Bahamut craned his neck, gesturing vaguely into the Aerie and upward with his head, and Serph grinned devilishly.

"Anybody home?" the Kriovaller asked sweetly. If anything, he expected the small yet growing crowd near the two might yield up some interesting information.

Aelkyn nodded to Kaapmaan. "You have my permission, of course - and also my gratitude. Altanar shall not forget the friendship you are showing, and neither will I."

Aelkyn turned back to Cianar and Melika. Father and son simply clasped hands for a moment, then Cianar nodded firmly. Nothing more was said, or needed to be.

Aelkyn then turned to Melika. "I'm still mad that you're making me miss all the fun," she teased. "But the clans of Argalia will make up for that on the battlefield, I am sure. And you better not end up getting yourself killed, or I'll be furious with you," Melika said. Her expression turned serious. "Seriously, Aelkyn, be careful," she whispered. The King embraced her, and gave her a kiss. "Oh, I will be. Who else will get the traditionalists all riled up if I don't?" he laughed. "Be careful as well, and I'll try to finish this up as quickly as I can down here so you can both come back home."

"You better," Melika said gently, and stroked his cheek. Then she turned, and with Cianar, walked towards the door. "Never fear, my Lady....we are with people who certainly know how to travel in style," Cianar grinned, gesturing to the box attached to the door. They walked through.

---

Outside the Aerie, several Aranathan Guards stared nervously for a moment at Serph, although they seemed, frankly, to be staring more at Bahamut. No one said anything, until another Aranathan Guard walked into the gatehouse checkpoint. "It's all right, everyone.....our guest is expected by the King," he said. The guards simply nodded, as if not trusting themselves to say anything else. "Is that a dragon?" one of them whispered to his neighbor.

The guard turned towards Serph and Bahamut and bowed deeply from the waist. "On behalf of the Kingdom of Altanar, welcome to the Aerie, your Majesty. If you would be so kind as to follow me, I can escort you to the throne room at once. Is there some place we can direct your....companion to, where he....she...er...would be more comfortable? I do not think he'll fit inside the palace itself," he said nervously.

Mag took one last bow, and walked through the door, closing it behind him. After it shut, the little metal box fell off the door and shattered into hundreds of little pieces. Opening the door would should the proper room again.

Ambassador Kappmaan turned back to the King. "Your Majesty, with your leave I will return to the embassy. You family will be escorted immediatly to the United Nations, and from there to the Empire. I will be coordinating the Imperial efforts from the embassy... should you require anything, you have only to ask."

He bowed, and with his retinue left for their cars.


* * *
Allech-Atreus Embassy, Ael Khalas, Altanar

The Queen and former King were greeted by Inquisitor Darak, who smiled and introduced himself.

"I'm sorry that we don't have much time to chat, but for safety's sake we will be opening a warp gate now. Please sit tight, the momentary tingling is nothing to be alarmed of."

A palpable heaviness filled the room, and the two Altanari felt their sking tingling and crawling. Against the back wall of the basement room there appeared to be a strange mirage, shimmering. One Pulsar Guard stepped through it, disappearing, and Darak led the two royals to the gate.

"Don't worry, it's nothing to be afraid of."

On the other side, Rang Erman would be waiting with a cigar and a glass of brandy in the Allech-Atreus UN Office.

* * *
Streets of Ael Khalas, Altanar

Bashar Eistar Kappmaan, Ambassador to Altanar, looked out the window of his limousine, taking in the sights of the city. On every face he saw a sort of force happiness, a tired smile that revealed the gravity of the situation. The people didn't know what to do, they were waiting for someone to make another move. It was radical versus radical, and the average person was just caught in the middle.

He sighed and turned his attention back inward. Pulling a jeweled dagger out of his robes, he turned it over in his hands, the sunburst pattern on the pommel glistening. It was his distinction to carry it, as a Bashar of the Order of the Nova. He had worked for years to become a respected brother of the Nova's mysteries... and here he was, doing their work. He smiled sadly, hoping that all his works would ensure the safety of the Aranathas line.

Your work is the most important of all. The Metaphile had said to him, the red and black robes forming a backdrop against the white room. But before your mission can be fulfilled, be ready for calamity and strife.

Replacing the dagger, he looked at the Imperial Crest emblazoned on the driver's partition in front of him. For a brief moment, he was filled with the courage and hope of the Emperor.

And in the next moment, the car exploded.

ASDF camps, multiple locations, Akamian Provinces

Cadres of the ASDF began carrying out their assignments, as ordered by the ASDF leader, "General" Kerilais. In several cities, municipal officials and police officers began to quietly be murdered in their homes in the late hours of the night. Often, it was their own guards or fellow officers doing the killing. Whether they were Akamian or Altanari in ethnicity did not matter - anyone that supported the government was fair game. If the families, lovers or friends of the targets happened to be in the way, the killers shrugged it off as casualties of war. This sort of quiet killing in the night was a skill the ASDF had honed through the decades of their quiet insurgency. Unfortunately for the Altanari government, it was something the ASDF was very good at.

---

Church of the Ascending Sun, Lukisha

The Archpriest of Lukisha issued a statement, signed also by the Archpriests of Staria and Ektar:

"We hereby renounce the heretical and unnatural regime of the false King, Aelkyn, and the ungodly teachings of his lapdog, Melakis of the false Church of Altanar. We declare that all true Altanari everywhere should rise up against this false prophet, and his overlord the King of sin. We declare ourselves the Church of the Ascending Sun, named for the building in Lukisha where we make our stand, but also for the rebirth that we true believers will bring to the Holy Church and lands of Altanar. We declare holy war against the false Church of Melakis and all who follow it, against the jackbooted tyrants of this government who seek to plunge our nation into modernist heresy and turmoil, and against any foreign agents or outsiders who support them. We call upon all Altanari who seek to defend their lands from this plague to raise arms and stand with us in this quest blessed by the Pantheon."

The reaction from Melakis was swift: "By even thinking, much less uttering, such hateful, heretical and blasphemous sentiments, the followers of this false Church of the Descending Sun have proven themselves unworthy of the legacy of the Pantheon. We declare them to be excommunicated, and will do everything we must to support our King and government in scourging them from the lands of the Sun."

News of the schism, and the call for holy war, soon reached the Aerie. "Great, now the Church is going to the seven hells on top of everything else. What else could go wrong?" Defense Minister Khaskereth asked Royal Intelligence Director Kamalek. He would soon find out.

The King of Krioval nodded to the Altanari guards as he jumped to the ground. He very nearly botched the landing, and his weapon clattered to the ground as its bindings broke loose. Serph touched his right index finger to his forehead as he collected the blade.

"Well met, Guardians." His solemnity dissolved. "I seem to be a bit out of practice. Then again, I am more tactician than pugilist these days."

Where shall I go?

Find someplace nearby where you won't draw too much attention.

In case you have forgotten, I am not exactly designed for stealth.

*Try* to stay hidden. Anywhere. But not too far. And do not eat our hosts.

Hmph. As if I would condescend to eat a human. Bahamut lifted into the air suddenly, and soared the short distance to a rather sturdy-looking building, where he deftly touched down, feigning continued offense.

"I can tell him to move if it becomes problematic, though I cannot conceive of a location where Bahamut will be able to remain concealed." Serph paused. "Though if that location is acceptable, I will gladly accept your invitation to converse with His Majesty. I would bet that he has his hands quite full tonight."

Streets of Ael Khalas

The Royal Police that had been escorting Ambassador Kaapmaan's limousine slammed to a halt at the explosion. A police cruiser was too close to the explosion, and was caught in it, soon exploding as well. Shrapnel, glass and metal rained onto passerby, and the sounds of screaming and crying filled the air.

"By the gods! We need backup and medical personnel here now! Merikatha Parkway and Central Avenue! The Ambassador's vehicle just exploded!" a Royal Policeman screamed into his police radio, before fainting from blood loss.

---

"Of course, your Majesty. We are honored to receive you," the guard said. The sound of the explosion, just blocks away, underlined Serph's last remark. "Your Majesty, we'd better get inside. I don't know what that was, but explosions are rarely a good thing," the guard said, as alarm klaxons began to sound throughout the palace and sirens began to be heard a distance away.

"By the Gods." Serph's gaze darted around the area briefly. "I suppose I will be more useful inside. Please lead the way."

"Please follow me, your Majesty," the guard said, quickly leading Serph inside. Several other guards quickly moved into flanking positions to guard them as they walked inside, with others moving around the building Bahamut was sitting on as a protective cordon. "Not sure if we're guarding him, or the other way around," one of the soldiers whispered to his neighbor, who merely grinned.

Meanwhile, the Aranathan Guards commander quickly rushed inside to the King. "King Serph is on his way inside, milord...but....there's been an explosion, sir. The Allech-Atreus ambassador's vehicle. We have police and Guardsmen cordoning off the area now, sir."

"By the Pantheon....." Aelkyn said. "Is the Ambassador all right?"

"We do not know yet, milord. The area is being sealed off now," the guard replied.

"Contact their embassy at once. They'll want to investigate this as well. Instruct our people on the ground that they are to give their investigators full cooperation, by my order. And I am ordering martial law on Ael Khalas immediately. Execute City Defense Plan Alpha-Zero-Seven. No one is to enter or leave the city without being checked until further notice. Shut down the airport, rail and bus routes as well. Only military and government traffic is allowed. Understood?" Aelkyn said. "I am declaring Nationwide Emergency Plan Zeta-Zero-Three active as well immediately. All cities are under martial law as of now. Activate all police and military units."

"By your command, milord," the commander said, bolting to execute the orders.

After the royal family had gone through the gate, and it had been shut, Velren Darak walked back to his office in the basement. The embassy's Aushedar had given it up for him, and Darak was glad for the space. Underground, he has more safety.

He was there no more than a moment when Merideth walked slowly into the room. He looked up and away from his desk lamp, squinting. Light tears were on her face.

"Merideth? What's going on?"

"The Ambassador... Eistar... he's dead." she choked. "His car exploded. Bombed. In the middle of the street, by the Emperor..." she sobbed.

Darak's face fell, and he looked down to his desk. His training and his implants denied him any emotional outburst, and his thoughts turned to the two Aranathas. The bomb had surely been meant for them.

"Merideth, go rest. I will handle everything. She left silently. He called in the Aushedar, gave him orders to dispatch some Guardsmen to take over the scene of the disaster and then started to log into the Imperial Subspace Network, hoping to get in contact with the Empire. He wasn't at it long when General Taar entered the office, his red silk robes shining lowly.

"Inquisitor."

"'Yes, General? I apologize, but I'm trying to contact the Empire about this disaster. The Aushedar is already heading to the scene to ascertain the cause of the accident."

The General smiled. "Very quick thinking, Inquisitor. I commend your speed. I am sure that those renegade Altanari groups are behind the attack, why else would they kill the former King and the Queen?"

Darak was silent for a moment. There was a beat.

"The ambassador was the only one killed, General. The Queen and old King are already on their way to the Empire... we sent them by way of warp gate."

This time the General was silent, his smiled was gone. For a moment, he stared at the Inquisitor, then smiled again. "Oh, what a relief! I had thought that the Ambassador would take the two with him in the convoy! Only you could have been so cautious as to turn Eistar into a decoy."

Darak didn't smile. "Yes, of course, General. As I said, I'm now contacting the Empire as to the ambassador's death..."

The General stood. "That won't be necessary. I will make the necessary contacts."

Darak frowned. "But I am the Inquisitor in charge here, since the ambassador is dead it is my duty."

Taar smiled. "I am the new ambassador. My orders were to assume diplomatic relations in the event of any disaster befalling the ambassador. A safeguard, in these dangerous times. I will make the reports. Inquisitor, you may return to your quarters and get some rest. You will need it for the morning."

Darak stood sharply. "Sir! The ambassador is dead! I hardly think that it is appropriate to take the night off!"

The General rose just as sharply. "That is an order, Inquisitor Darak." his voice was ice cold.

Darak sat down slowly. "Yes, General."

Taar smiled and looked down his nose. "Very good. Tomorrow, Inquisitor, we will formulate our response."

With that, he turned and left.

* * *
The streets of Ael Khalas, Altanar

The Aushedar was on the scene in moments, almost running out of a shop door. If one had been looking, they would have seen the interior to the embassy before the door closed. His red military uniform and Imperial Insignia quickly identified him, and he went directly to the burning hulks.

The ambassador's car was a mass of flames, and the police vehicle it had enflamed was also burning. The Aushedar squinted, his bioenhanced eyes filtering out the flames. The glinting of the ambassador's dagger shone through, attached to a shapeless mass of burning silks. He shook his head.

An Altanari policeman ran over. "Hey, this is a disaster area! What are you doing here?"

He turned, showing his insignia. "I'm with the embassy, dammit!" he shouted. "And the fucking ambassador is dead! What the fuck do you think I'm doing here!?"

Serph walked wordlessly with his escorts until they reached their destination. "Your Majesty, I should like to wish you a good evening," he said, removing his silvery helm, "but it appears far too late for such sentiment. I believe that you might be better able to tell me the situation on the ground. From that, we may be able to stop things spiraling completely out of control." He then noticed the Ausserlanders. "Excellencies."

The Aerie

The King nodded politely to Serph. "Of course, and thank you for coming. We could 'your Majesty' each other all evening, but I am more than comfortable with you addressing me by name. I am not sure what protocols you prefer, but we can figure that out. As for the situation.....here's where it stands right now. We have several nobles on the run, a religious schism with some radical priests calling for a holy war against me, and reason to believe a separatist group is about to launch a full-scale revolt in our southwestern provinces. And we just had an assassination attempt on a foreign diplomat, and we don't know if he survived or not." Aelkyn paused. "Forgive me, I don't normally run off at the mouth quite so much, but this has not been a normal night by any means. I also don't imagine this is quite what you expected on your first visit here."

---

Central Command, Fort Olen, Ael Khalas

As the call for all military units to mobilize and institute martial law went out, each provincial command reported in to the RADF Central Command. All, that is, except one.

"Minister, we cannot seem to establish communications with the Po Province Command Center. They are not responding to our messages," a tactical officer reported to Defense Minister Khaskereth. "Is there a problem with the communications system? Have you tried the backups?" Khaskereth replied.

"Yes, sir, and there has been no response on any system," the tac officer replied. "Satellite information shows the units in that province are positioned as normal."

"What are the nearest units we have to that province?" Khaskereth asked.

"We have the 2nd Brigade based out of Lukisha, sir. There are several units near the provincial border," the tac officer replied.

"Send them out to Po to find out exactly what in the hell is going on," Khaskereth replied.

---

Town of Malitseth, on the border between Po and Lukisha provinces

The convoy of MAV-2 armored personnel carriers moved towards the provincial border, avoiding the main roads. As they neared the border, they slowed as they took back roads into the village of Maliseth.

An AT-30 Hellstrike antitank missile streaked out of the darkness, hitting the lead APC. It exploded in a geyser of fire, careening off the street and crashing into a building.

"We are taking fire!" the unit commander reported to his base. "Unknown attackers, moving to engage." The APCs moved to cover behind whatever source they could find, as more rockets and rifle fire began to pepper the convoy.

"My friends call me Serph. I believe that we are fast becoming thus, are we not?" The monarch took a deep breath. "In the interest of saving time, I suppose I will have to be a bit forward, Aelkyn. When I was made to undo the former President David Andros these few months past, I had to make some devastating decisions. The Monastery at Andretara had stood for three centuries until that night - it did not see morning. Before we can formulate a strategy, then, I must ask what decisions you would make. Take the renegade priests...could they be frightened back into submission?"

"I do believe we are becoming friends - at least I hope so. I think that we can dispense with formality, or sugarcoating. I seriously doubt any of our foes can be swayed into surrendering without a fight. From what the High Priest has told us, they are extremely fanatical about the fact that they hate me, and want to close the nation off to foreigners and other religions," Aelkyn said. "The nobles that have gone missing won't surrender either. They know fully well that we execute traitors here. They have to win, or die. The separatists may be easier to deal with, but even they have a hard core of fanatics that won't listen to us. We've been trying to talk to them for thirty years now without much success."

The Aranathan Guards commander came running back in. "Your Majesty! One of our units that tried to enter Po Province has been fired on! They're returning fire and trying to proceed into the province, but they've encountered stiff resistance."

Aelkyn swore under his breath. "Have we been able to establish contact with the Po Province command center yet?"

"Not yet, milord," the commander said. "But there is a message that was sent from there - to the media," he said.

"Great," Aelkyn said sourly. "Bring it on in here, then."

The commander turned on the large viewscreen that dominated one wall of the throne room, and turned it to Altanari Royal Television. ".....and we have reports that renegade units of the military have fired upon forces sent by the King to Po Province. The following statement was issued just minutes ago from the provincial capital."

Lord Sarkas' face appeared on the screen. "As of this day, I have taken command of the military forces in Po Province. I have little doubt that the King will attempt to label this as a treasonous act. But he lies to you. These are the acts of patriots. The King is supposed to be the protector of our traditions and our way of life. He has done anything but protect them. He has brought us radical and unsettling political experiments, and opened up our borders to foreigners who would force us to change. He has upset centuries of tradition and Altanari values, all in the quest for a fig leaf of 'democracy'. He consorts with foreign leaders and advisors, who guide him as a puppet, placing our government - and our nation - at their hands, and not of the people."

"I am acting not as a noble, but as a soldier, who spent decades defending Altanar from any threats it faced - and still faces. I urge the people to see through Aelkyn's lies, and join us in preserving and protecting the true Altanar."

The commentator came back on screen. "Reports are coming in that no one has been able to enter or leave Po Province since three hours ago. Military checkpoints have been set up, and government forces attempting to enter the area have been attacked. And there have been reports of small groups of Royal Guardsmen and police escaping across the border, who tell a tale of betrayal and death at the hands of their fellow soldiers. There has been no response from the King or the government as of yet. We will follow this story as it develops."

The commander shut off the screen, ashen-faced.

Aelkyn stared at the screen, wordlessly, for a moment. Then he turned to his guard commander. "I want a link to Central Command - now," he hissed.

The commander quickly established the link, and Defense Minister Khaskereth came on the line. "Yes, your Majesty," he said.

"I want every single unit we have mobilized, and a plan drawn up for going into Po Province. We cannot allow Sarkas' treason to go on for long. We need to crush him decisively and quickly. I expect a plan for doing just that in front of me here within the hour," Aelkyn said.

"We're working on it as we speak, your Majesty. The plan shall be ready for you within the hour," Khaskereth said.

Aelkyn cut the communication. "Add a renegade noble with control over part of my military to the list."

Meanwhile, at the scene of the explosion, the policeman that had run up to the Aushedar stopped short. "I'm sorry, sir. I did not see your identification," he said.

Two men in the black uniforms of Royal Intelligence came walking up at that point. "We'll take over from here, officer," one of them told the policeman. "Go secure the perimeter, please."

"Yes, sir," the policeman said, glad to be given a way to escape with a margin of grace.

The two Intelligence agents walked forward, one of them presenting his identification to the Aushedar. "We apologize for that, and we are sorry for the loss of your countryman. The King has ordered us to aid you in any way we can and grant you full cooperation. Is there anything we can do?"

Various cities, Akamian Provinces

As the order for nationwide martial law went into effect, the command centers in the Akamian Provinces began implementing the protocols. It became evident quickly that many people were not responding. Political officials, police officers, even some military officers...large numbers of them simply could not be reached. As the local command centers began to try to work around the gaps this caused, and implement their orders, the ASDF struck.

The first step became evident in a thunder of flame and smoke. Carefully planned car bombs went off at a number of law enforcement, political and military sites throughout the Akamian Provinces, trying to gut the command and control infrastructure. While there were backups for those facilities in place, this still weakened the Altanari response network significantly.

Immediately after that, the ASDF's military wing, along with the forces controlled by the Akamian nobles, swung into action. They attacked Altanari military and law enforcement centers, and either occupied or destroyed government sites. They also fired on, or took prisoner, any medical or disaster personnel who tried to respond to the bombings.

The beleagured Akamian Command of the RADF began to fight back, launching counterattacks and trying to weed out ASDF nests. But it soon became apparent that without backup, the best they could hope for was a stalemate.

Back in the Aerie

Serph watched the newscast, and the comments by the Lord Sarkas. "I am beginning to long for Kriovalian intrigues. No shortage of bizarre and lengthy plots, to be sure, but far less blood. Of course," he continued, "there have been impressive exceptions. What is clear is that this mess was waiting for a trigger. What is less clear is whether these various factions are united in some forward direction, or whether they simply share distrust for your government. If it's the latter," the king grinned almost evilly, "I can bring the priestly situation to a conclusion before the 'ascending sun'. That is, depending on how the average Altanari subject would view such an act - as proof of divine or diabolic force."

"Lord Serph?" his commconsole crackled to life.

"Commander Hogan. Anything new and exciting?"

"You're kidding. Not enough going on out there?"

"Is that a 'no', Commander?"

"That would be correct, Great One."

Some scuffling could be heard before Basch appeared. "Hey, Serph. Don't mind her. It's past her bedtime, after all." In the background, Natalie Hogan fumed.

"How's everybody holding up?"

"We're good. We're having some trouble getting into their networks. The technology is a bit beyond our abilities," he said graciously.

"More like totally out-of-date," the Commander snapped from behind Basch. "Gods above, you'd think they hadn't heard of a quantum plasmatronic configuration array."

"Unless they have space colonies, I wouldn't think they use those," Serph intoned.

"Ah...point, Majesty. Anyway, we'll get it eventually." Natalie wandered away from the link muttering something about wires.

"Basch?"

"Yes, Serph?"

"Get some rest. I'll need you in the morning."

"Making me sit this one out? Oh well," the Lord-General shrugged. "Tiamat's not going to like this."

"She's a Kriovalian female. Even they don't know what they like most of the time."

Serph could hear the Commander's cursing in the background as the link dissolved. He turned back to Aelkyn. "Any ideas on how to penetrate their network?"

Aelkyn grinned as well. "I like the way you think, as far as the priest situation. I don't think our people would react negatively, and we can coordinate that with our Church leadership to put the right...ah...appearance to it. Can we get Melakis in here?" Aelkyn said, turning to his guard commander. "We shall summon him at once, milord," the guard replied.

Aelkyn turned back to Serph. "As far as the networks are concerned, they're using the same domestic and military networks as we are, they've just locked us out of them locally. We should be able to break back into them in time. I suspect Sarkas is hoping the military will topple me before that can happen. He's going to be disappointed, and by disappointed, I mean quite dead."

As the two Kings were speaking, a door opened and General Taar walked out of it, as if nothing was the matter with the manner of his entrance.

"I do apologize for entering without permission, but I believe that the situation warrants it. I amd General Adhirilan Taar, command of the Five Legions, and current ambassador for the Great Star Empire of Allech-Atreus, having the unfortunate duty of replacing the Bashar Kappmaan. I am now in charge of all Imperial affairs within your country, Majesty. Your acquaintance is well made."

Aelkyn gave a respectful nod to Taar. "As is yours, General Taar. I am deeply sorry for the loss of Ambassador Kaapmaan. I swear to you that we will do everything in our power to avenge this crime."

The guard commander rushed back into the room, breathing heavily. (He'd been running around quite a bit.)

"Milord, the ASDF is moving, as expected. They've managed to cut out a large portion of our command and control infrastructure down there, though. They seem to have had inside help."

"Something we did not expect," Aelkyn mused. "Very well, connect me with Central Command again."

"Khaskereth here," the Defense Minister soon answered.

"We have yet another variable. The ASDF is on the move," Aelkyn said.

"Yes, milord. We are tracking their movements now. They've managed to seize control of large areas of Celavan, Nara, Astrival and Isilkara. Gennor is still chaotic - the ASDF, our forces and this self-declared 'Peoples' Soviet' seem to all be in the mix. The Akamian Command reports that they've been rocked a bit, but are counterattacking. What are your orders, sir?"

"Order the AC to surround all areas the ASDF has control of now, and deny them any additional areas. Take care to avoid civilian casualties as much as possible. For now, we're going to box them in, until I can come up with a way to end this idiocy without massive casualties or having to conduct thousands of military executions. Move forces from surrounding provinces as needed."

"Yes, milord. What about the religious uprisings in Ektar, Staria and Lukisha?" Khaskereth asked.

"Follow the same protocol - surround and ensiege the areas they have now, and deny them any further expansion. Do the same with Po Province. Also, all air, sea and land travel, except for government and military personnel, is banned throughout Altanar as of right now. Publish a warning to all our media outlets. Send an advisory to all appropriate international locations from the MoS. This does not include the Wailele Island units off our waters - just let them know what's going on. Understood?"

"Yes, milord, and we shall do so," Khaskereth said, ending communication.

Aelkyn gave a respectful nod to Taar. "As is yours, General Taar. I am deeply sorry for the loss of Ambassador Kaapmaan. I swear to you that we will do everything in our power to avenge this crime."

Taar closed his eyes and nodded serenely. "His death will not be in vain, by the glory of the Avata Husmangaiyu. I am here to speak about a specific thing- the uprisings in your nation."

He adjusted his glasses and looked squarely at the King. "I am the High Lord General of the Five Legions, a special group of Imperial Guardsmen. But beyond that, I am an adherent of the religion of Husmangayana. Having spoken with the oracles of my faith, I believe that the uprisings in your nation are the result of a prophecy coming to pass. There is an important person in your nation whom you must do everything in your power to protect. This person is most important."

He turned, strolling away from Serph and Aelkyn.

"He was prophesied many years ago by an oracle who was posessed by our greatest god. It was foretold that he would appear amidst a great chaos, and be awakened. The Avata would fight for his soul- the light and darkness. But it was this person who would quell the fighting and ascend to the heavenly throne, bringing calm and peace and advancing mankind forward. This was prophesied."

He turned halfway back to the two men, almost looking over his shoulder.

"That prophecy has come to pass. He was to be revealed by deaths- the death of your nobles. He was to be heralded by a shining star that shrieked across the sky- that would be you, Lord Serph. And finally, most importantly, he would see the eruption of chaos and war."

Turning full back to face the two kings, the General's voice took on a songlike air, his eyes closed and he seemed to say each word with a holy reverence.

"The great Scion has come to Altanar."

* * *
Streets of Ael Khalas, Altanar

The Aushedar shrugged off the policemen, and saluted the two intelligence officials.

"Put out the fires on the ambassador's limousine. I need to recover some items from the wreckage. We suspect that this was caused by the Akamian revolutionaries who murdered your nobles."

From the Hauptstadt Herald:

BULLETIN FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL

The Ministry of Defense has issued the following bulletin for all military personnel:

Effective immediately, all out-of-country travel by military personnel on leave is prohibited.

All leaves (except medical and convalescent) are cancelled for personnel of the following units. All personnel of those units currently on leave will report immediately to their assigned duty stations.

Special Operations Command, AoA
15th Voltigeur Regiment, AoA
3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, AoA
1st and 2nd CEWI companies, AoA
1st and 2nd Transport Wings, AAF

Personnel of other AoA and AAF units currently on leave are advised to be prepared to return to duty on a no-notice basis.

The Aerie

"I see," Aelkyn said to Taar. "Do you have any idea who this Scion might be? We will find it difficult to protect them if we do not know who they are."

---

Explosion site

"Of course," the Intelligence officer said, quickly gesturing to one of the fire crews working the scene. The fire crew efficiently and quickly doused the flames, then moved out of the way.

The Intelligence officer looked at the Aushedar. "Do you have any evidence that Akamians were involved? Did any of our citizens who are in the embassy staff have access to the Ambassador's vehicle?"

The Aerie

"I see," Aelkyn said to Taar. "Do you have any idea who this Scion might be? We will find it difficult to protect them if we do not know who they are."

---

Explosion site

"Of course," the Intelligence officer said, quickly gesturing to one of the fire crews working the scene. The fire crew efficiently and quickly doused the flames, then moved out of the way.

The Intelligence officer looked at the Aushedar. "Do you have any evidence that Akamians were involved? Did any of our citizens who were in the embassy staff have access to the Ambassador's vehicle?"

The Aushedar shook his head. "I don't know, it's possible we have a mole, although that is highly unlikely. The bombing fits the modus operandi of the seperatists- they have been planting explosives all around Altanar."

He walked over to the burning hulk, jammed his hand into the still-smoldering wreckage, pulled at something. The officers couldn't see it, but it was Kappmaan's jeweled dagger.

Turning back to the officers, the Aushedar frowned. "You may take charge of the situation. We will collect whatever remains there are from you, at present I must return to the embassy."

* * *
The Aerie

Taar furrowed his brow, almost looking like he was disappointed in Aelkyn for asking such a question.

"No, not specifically. We do know that he is of noble blood and that he is the last of his line. That is all."

He was silent for a moment, looking quizzically at the Kriovaller. He turned his attention back to Aelkyn.

"I will return to the embassy. I will contact you in the future."

Without waiting for a response, he walked over to the door and exited the room.

Serph listened intently to the General Taar, nodding when the various turns of phrase compelled it. Finally, he spoke. "I should hear more of this prophecy when time permits it." He turned to King Aelkyn. "If Your Majesty doesn't object, I should visit the former Archpriest and his schismatic temple. Perhaps they will soften their position. Or perhaps I will soften their position. Is there anything of particular value that should be protected?"

Explosion site

The Intelligence officer nodded to the Aushedar. "Of course. Again, you have our sympathies for the Ambassador's loss."

Once the Aushedar left, the Intelligence officer turned to his assistant. "See if you can get a list of any of our nationals who may have been working at their embassy. Also, see if we can get a forensics crew in here. This all seems a bit odd to me."

---

The Aerie

Once Taar left, Aelkyn turned briefly to an aide. "See if you can find out anything for me on this religion - Husmangayana? I need more information if I'm to protect this Scion, whoever they may be. Also, send word to all of our forces that they are to try to bring in any nobles they encounter alive." The aide nodded and left the room.

Turning back to Serph, Aelkyn gave a small, fierce smile. "All I ask is that you try to avoid civilian casualties. If there is resistance, though.....buildings can be rebuilt, and physical things can be replaced. I hope they'll be smart enough not to press the issue with you, but I can't afford to play nice right now."

---

Celavan

A convoy of ASDF vehicles rolled up to the Municipal Hall. Camouflage-clad ASDF guerrillas quickly jumped out, soon overwhelming the municipal police and small numbers of RADF personnel who had been trying to guard the building.

The guerrillas moved from floor to floor, ordering people to come out and shooting anyone who didn't do so quickly enough, or who tried to resist. Bodies soon began to fall from windows, as the ASDF guerrillas "cleaned" the building.

Sinis Kerilais and the Akamian nobles, flanked by several Celavanian Guards and ASDF guerrillas, marched into the mayor's office. The two municipal policemen who had been guarding him jumped up as if to raise their weapons, only to be stopped by the mayor. "Don't bother, boys, there's no point," he said sadly.

Kerilais pointed a rifle at the policemens' heads. "Put your weapons on the ground or you're dead." The officers complied, and were soon blindfolded, tied up and hustled out of the room.

"We're in charge of Celavan now, Mayor," Lord Pyrellis said. "You can either cooperate with us, or die. You choose."

"I've already chosen. I didn't want those poor policemen to die for nothing, but I won't betray my oaths either." The Mayor quickly walked to the window. "Long live Altanar!" he shouted, jumping out and falling five stories to his death.

The people left in the room merely smirked. "I always wanted a promotion. I guess I have one now," the deputy mayor laughed, taking over the mayor's chair.

Kerilais and the nobles sat down at a conference table, to write a statement for the international media.

---

Statement of the ASDF

"We, the people of Akamia, have begun our fight to be free from the yoke of the rule of Altanar. We hereby pledge to defend the lands of Akamia from all foes, foreign or domestic. We shall not rest until we have secured the freedom and independence Akamians have longed for for decades. However, the military oppression of Altanar and its tyrant king are a continuing threat to that dream. We ask the international community to help us in these trying times, as powerful nations outside of our lands are assisting the Altanari dictator in his efforts to squelch our fight for freedom."

---

"Think they'll buy that?" Kerilais said to Pyrellis. "Let's hope so, or we're as dead as that idiot mayor out there," Pyrellis said.

Velren Darak didn't get any sleep. He paced his small room the entire night, thinking about the General and the ambassador's death. Why had the General assumed that the two Altanari were in the car with him?

He was jolted by a knock on the door. He called, and the Aushedar walked in, saluting.

"Inquisitor. It's confirmed, the ambassador is dead. I turned over the affairs to the Altanari police. I did recover this, though." he pulled the dagger, covered in soot and black, from his pocket, and handed it over.

"The King has declared martial law, and there are battles breaking out all over the country. The city of Celavan has been taken by the seperatists, many are dead. This is rapidly turning into a civil war."

The Inquisitor gritted his teeth. "Where's the General? I need to speak with him."

The Aushedar shook his head. "I'm not sure. He went to the Aerie several hours ago, but hasn't returned."

Darak grabbed his laser pistol and datapad, and stood up straight. "Alright. Come with me, we're going to marshall the Sunfuries."

The government announced that UN Ambassador and former Prime Minister Jaris Krytellin had agreed to the King's request to reassume the office of Prime Minister. This was announced at a press conference at the Aerie, at which Krytellin also issued the government's rebuttal to the earlier ASDF statement:

"The ASDF is a murderous terrorist organization. Despite the best efforts of successive Kings and their governments over the past thirty years and more, they have refused to accept any terms for resolving the Akamian issue other than the complete, immediate and total withdrawal by Altanar from the Akamian Provinces. They have rejected autonomy proposals as well as proposals to partition Akamia into separate regions. As the majority of people in Akamia - of both Akamian and Altanari descent - wish to remain part of Altanar, we cannot simply abandon them and walk away at the behest of a group of known murderers."

"The ASDF claims to be a group of pure-hearted freedom fighters against an oppressive government. Tell me - do righteous people do these sorts of things?"

Krytellin jabbed his finger at a viewscreen, which began to display images of what had taken place at the Celavan Municipal Hall earlier. Images of bodies being thrown out of windows, and dragged down the steps. Then, an image of the Mayor falling to his death. Many of the images were grainy or shaky, as if filmed by amateur observers.

"These images were taken as Celavan fell. The ASDF promises freedom, and it does deliver - the freedom of the grave."

More images, of civilians, police, soldiers and government officials, bodies burned, riddled with bullets, cut up, desecrated.

"All of these images were smuggled to us across enemy lines, at great cost. But they show the true story. The ASDF wants to govern, but it only knows how to kill and destroy. We would urge anyone, whether inside Altanar or outside it, to contemplate the true nature of what the ASDF really is, before offering them any support."

Still more images, of buildings burning, people being marched down the street by hooded gunmen.

"And to the ASDF, we say this: enjoy your victory, your hands soaked in blood that will never wash off. You will not have time to enjoy it long," Krytellin finished as the images faded from the screen. "The Kingdom of Altanar will return, and you will be held to account for your crimes. And when that happens, may the gods and goddesses show you mercy, because we will not." Krytellin stalked offstage, refusing to take any questions.

In another announcement, the government announced that with Krytellin leaving the post of UN Ambassador, Deputy Ambassador Jinella Agaranth would be assuming that position. Agaranth was the first person of Akamian descent to be given such a high diplomatic position. In accepting, Agaranth said that she hoped her promotion "would be a sign that Akamians are welcome in Altanar, and have the same rights and can achieve as much as anyone in our nation."

Meanwhile, the King summoned the High Commanders of the Aranathan Guards and the Royal Guards to his private meeting room.

"I need to know if you can sneak someone behind the ASDF lines into Isilkara Province," he said, without preamble.

The commanders pondered that statement. "We can, to be sure....but who, if I may ask, milord?" the Royal Guards commander said.

Aelkyn said nothing, simply staring at him. "I need you to make a plan to do so, as soon as possible. Insertion and extraction, as close to the Inimena fortress as possible."

The Aranathan Guards commander shifted uncomfortably. "Milord, surely you're not thinking of..."

Aelkyn cut him off. "Just come up with the plan, please. This is the highest priority. You're dismissed, gentlemen." The King turned to the window.

The Aerie

Once Taar left, Aelkyn turned briefly to an aide. "See if you can find out anything for me on this religion - Husmangayana? I need more information if I'm to protect this Scion, whoever they may be. Also, send word to all of our forces that they are to try to bring in any nobles they encounter alive." The aide nodded and left the room.

Turning back to Serph, Aelkyn gave a small, fierce smile. "All I ask is that you try to avoid civilian casualties. If there is resistance, though.....buildings can be rebuilt, and physical things can be replaced. I hope they'll be smart enough not to press the issue with you, but I can't afford to play nice right now."

"The false priests will choose their own fate. I will merely carry out the consequences. I will return with the dawn." Serph removed his communications armband. "I don't want to be tracked." He looked upward. "Bahamut! We go to fight!"

With that, Serph leapt out an open window as the flashy dragon swooped beneath. Together, they rose in a tight spiral over the Aerie, then Bahamut opened his wings fully and they coasted off on an updraft. They traveled quickly, and arrived at the separatist temple in about twenty minutes.

Temple of Lukisha

Then they plunged to the ground, slamming into it with enough force to rattle the holy site's windows. Serph considered several possible greetings and ultimatums before deciding on something poetic.

"Fighting the corrupting sin
The Dragon and the Paladin

Stand before you, bathed in light
Here to talk, or here to fight."

Serph leaned forward against Bahamut, reasonably satisfied. The effect was only slightly marred by the dragon's snort. Is that the best you could do?

The king looked only slightly put off. Lyrically, he spoke out loud, as much to the holed-up priests as to Bahamut, "My friend, what good would it be to waste my best verse on those unlikely to ever again see the light of day?"

This earned another snort, though in assent. I wonder their views on eschatology.

Statement of the ASDF

"We, the people of Akamia, have begun our fight to be free from the yoke of the rule of Altanar. We hereby pledge to defend the lands of Akamia from all foes, foreign or domestic. We shall not rest until we have secured the freedom and independence Akamians have longed for for decades. However, the military oppression of Altanar and its tyrant king are a continuing threat to that dream. We ask the international community to help us in these trying times, as powerful nations outside of our lands are assisting the Altanari dictator in his efforts to squelch our fight for freedom."


For immediate release:


http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l88/SilverSerph/WHITECIT.gif
Seal of the White City of Valak
Free Lands of Krioval

The Senate of Krioval, having reviewed a combination of news reports out of the disputed territory, as well as consulting satellite imagery, are convinced that the actions of this Akamian separatist organization are to be considered terrorism. The Free Lands of Krioval support most emphatically the legitimate government of the United Kingdom of Altanar, as vested in His Majesty the Lord Aelkyn, King of Altanar, and the democratically elected institutions of that nation. We strongly urge nations not already involved in this conflict to remain separate from it, and for those nations concerned about humanitarian issues to contact either the legitimate government of Altanar or the representatives of the United Kingdom's allies, all of whom are pressing for a peaceful resolution to this mounting crisis.

President Valkai Andros
Free Lands of Krioval

Church of the Ascending Sun, Lukisha

An answering shout came from a high balcony. "Who are you that dares to defile this holy place? You claim to be a paladin, but you are none of ours, riding that foul beast."

The Archpriest of Lukisha strode onto the balcony. He was a tall, thin man, long gray hair and beard drifting slightly in the night wind.

OOC: for reference, I now have a map (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/rpmap.jpg) showing where the various areas are.

The dragon lifted soundlessly into the air, propelled by an unseen force, and leveled off even with the balcony. Bahamut flapped his wings once, venting his frustration with a small gust of air.

"I believe introductions are in order," Serph said loftily. "I am Serph Dekker, from Krioval - one of the 'foreign agents' bent on something something 'jackboot' something or other. It's been a long day. The 'foul beast' currently supporting me in our mid-air conversation is called Bahamut, and is quite charming when you get to know him. And Your Grace is called...?" The king didn't wait for a response. "In any case, our time here together is short. I have promised His Majesty I would return by daybreak. I figured that, as men of faith, we might work out an agreement that doesn't require an empirical study of divine wrath." He smiled. "And I highly doubt that Aelkyn is the 'King of Sin' - I could give him quite a run for that title."

"I have no doubt that you could, coming here in the guise of a holy man and yet riding the spawn of the overlords of the seven hells," the Archpriest said coldly. "But this is holy land you trespass on, and those who serve the Pantheon, such as myself, have no need to fear! In death or in life, we are blessed by our gods! And we will not abandon the holy land of Altanar to an outsider or his pet King!" The Archpriest pulled on a golden rope hanging next to the balcony door.

The church bells began to sound, and people began pouring out of the church buildings, and standing in windows. They wore ecclesiastical robes and were armed with a motley assortment of weapons, running the gamut from bows and arrows to military-issue rifles and shoulder-toted missiles.

"Now - begone from this holy place! Or the only divine wrath you shall see will be delivered unto you!" the Archpriest yelled, leaving the balcony.

Parts of Celavan were still in flames while Kerilais and Pyrellis plotted their next actions over maps of the coutry. A door to their room opened, and to their surprise an unfamiliar figure enter, flanked by guards.

"Gentlemen. I am High Lord General Adhirilan Taar. If you make any move to attack, I will kill you personally."

The General smiled airily, and held up his hand when they tried to speak. The black-armored guards leveled their assault rifles.

"I do not want to kill you, though. That is furthest from my mind at the moment. I only want you to know that your lives are worth nothing to me- before the awesome wrath of the heavens, you are dust. Your forces will avoid any combat with the forces of the Great Star Empire of Allech-Atreus, or you will die in your sleep. Do not interfere with us or our mission, and you will be spared. Neither of you wish death."

Turning on his heel, he did not wait for a response from the two men and exited with his guards, leaving the two seperatist leaders staring at each other and the door.

OOC: Hope I'm not godmoding or anything... I know I have a high tech level, but I'm holding it back. Let me know if you want anything scaled back.

IC: Pyrellis and Kerilais stared, mouths agape, at the door after Taar left. "Guess we should be glad they're not helping Aelkyn," Kerilais muttered eventually, taking a big swig from a flask.

OOC: don't worry about the tech levels. Altanar is strictly a MT nation, but as I said earlier, as long as someone doesn't try to nuke my nation, I'm okay with their RPing higher tech levels. It makes things a little interesting, which is what a RP is all about. :)

Back at the Lukisha Temple, Serph was fast coming to a realization. Refusing to speak to an enemy leader under flag of truce was un-Kriovalian. Moreover, it was, to a Kriovaller, patently uncivilized. Also, for a priest to wield such crude weapons, and to engage in such forceful heresy was also uncivilized. And for a devotee of the Fighter for Light, who was whispered to have been a demon before his deification, uncivilized was not something that was to be suffered to live. A booming voice seemingly from nowhere appeared to grant the sorely needed permission to act.

"INSOLENT BARBARIANS! YOU DARE CHALLENGE MY CHOSEN EMISSARY, THE CHOSEN OF THE LIGHT? YOU CLAIM NO NEED OF FEAR, BUT WE ARE GENEROUS NONETHELESS - WE GRANT IT AS OUR GIFT ANYWAY."

"Well," Serph said nonchalantly, "if They see fit, there's little I can do, is there?" Bahamut's reponse was only a rumbling as dormant powers began their journey to activity. "They are faithless, to rely on manmade weapons. Their folly will be exposed. Eschaton."

The king and paladin lifted gently off of the dragon, who began to fly in protective circles around Serph. They ascended in tandem slowly, a brilliant aura surrounding the paladin. Tendrils of light extended from his body to the right and left, and while his armor reflected this luminosity, it still possessed an otherworldly aspect - Serph's form was clearly discernible amid the splendor. He drew his blade and suspended it mid-air, facing downward, and the metal began to absorb some of the ambient power until it too glowed with the ethereal radiance. The transfigured paladin held his arms outstretched, energy gathering in either hand.

"Taru Dakken tovo varhan. Sefikaiyo dangen tarukai."
Great weapon of the Faith, go. Destroy the faithless and evil among the priests.

The ground at the three targets, the renegade temples, glowed blue as if lit by St. Elmo's fire. But no lightning strike was to follow. Instead, the glow disappeared, and less than a second later, all three sites were bathed in brilliant flares of power, exploding outward with great force. The eschaton rite involved powers thought to be unusable outside of divine judgment, and as such, its effects would remain unknown at least until the manifestations subsided.

For all Serph knew, everybody might have survived, the difference in cultures enough to account for the 'differently righteous'. Still, he felt that was doubtful, even as his temporary elevation to the spirit realm receded, and his knowledge of such things became tenuous again. Soon, collapsing onto the back of Bahamut, the King of Krioval became acutely aware of his need for rest. Dragon and man sped back eastward, toward the graying horizon.

OOC: Right then. Uh...in my defense, I didn't really have this planned? :D Anyway, the 'Eschaton' is from FFXII (see video here (http://youtube.com/watch?v=gaIWmRF0dkI) - spoiler alert!). My idea for what Serph looks like during his vengeful state is something like Tyrael or other angels from Diablo II.

BREAKING NEWS BULLETIN - Sun TV News

"We interrupt tonight's broadcast of 'Spelunking for Dollars' for an emergency news announcement. We have received reports that the three church buildings at the center of the schismatic Church of the Ascending Sun have been destroyed. Initial reports are sketchy, but witnesses reported that the buildings were initially on fire somehow, then all exploded at the exact same time. The buildings were totally destroyed, according to observers."

"There is no word yet on casualties, but observers tell us that it is highly unlikely anyone survived explosions of such great force. The buildings destroyed were the Church of the Ascending Sun in Lukisha, the Church of the Golden Sky in Ektar, and the Church of the United Faith in Staria. We will bring you more on this story as it develops."

---

As his church vehicle pulled into the entrance of the Aerie, High Priest Melakis sighed deeply and turned off the television. It had to happen. But I can still grieve for them, he thought. Another thought, this one much more ominous, entered his head as his vehicle passed under the Royal Seal mounted in the archway over the entrance. Did Aelkyn order the churches destroyed? And are we next?

Melakis was escorted into the throne room, where Aelkyn was waiting. The King didn't bother with niceties. "You are going to endorse the destruction of the three schismatic churches as a holy sign indicating the Pantheon's displeasure with those who plot against me and this government," Aelkyn said.

"With all respect, Majesty, it is not your right to order such things. This is a spiritual matter, not a temporal one," Melakis said. "And you know fully well that the deaths of so many holy men and the destruction of those ancient, revered sites was anything but a holy act! Were you behind this disgraceful act?"

The King ignored the question. "I am going to ask you this only once, and you will answer me truthfully, on your oath as a Holy Father. Did you know of the plots against me?" Aelkyn said in a dangerous voice.

Melakis said nothing for a long moment...and then simply nodded.

Aelkyn's voice exploded in fury. "You knew! And you said nothing! You talk about the deaths of all those priests! Did you stop to think for a second about all the innocent people who've died in this stupid civil war? You could have prevented that!" The King paced for a moment. He turned back to Melakis. "Don't think to defy me on this. You will do as I say, or by the Pantheon, I'll hang you and every single member of your Council from the walls of this palace by your balls! Remember this...the Kings of Altanar have never claimed to be divinely crowned. We draw our right to rule from the people alone! I don't need you to rule this land. It just makes it easier. That's all. And I don't have time to screw around with a bunch of faithless priests! Make your choice now. Do you obey me, or does your Church die?"

Melakis' face reddened. "You leave me little choice, don't you, my King?" he said bitterly.

"Try none." Aelkyn's voice was pure ice.

(OOC to K: don't worry, you're doing just fine. I wasn't expecting Eschaton, but it seems to fit somehow. :) )

The bond between Serph and Bahamut was remarkable in its strength - there were times when the two appeared to share a single consciousness. This proved an incredible asset on this night, with the Kriovaller unconscious from his earlier efforts. The dragon sped first southeast, along the Lifeheart River, angling more eastward before reaching the provincial capital of Nalioka. From there, it was a straight shot to Narraskath before another course correction, this time to the north. Thus, Bahamut avoided nearly all of the contested region, and perhaps a small mercy, declined to fly over the ruins of Staria's stricken church. Tiamat might have chosen to cement her superiority, and such was the right of any Kriovalian Devokai, whether dragon or other, but Serph had somehow introduced the concept of moderation to the Dragon of Light. The first rays of dawn illuminated Bahamut and his sleeping passenger as they glided over the peaceful Lake of the Green Field. As they swept through the brightening capital, Serph awakened.

"I would be happy to never have to do that again," he stated.

They arrived briefly at the Kriovalian embassy, where the details of the churches' destruction had not yet reached. Hastily, Serph collected Basch, got them both on Bahamut, and together, they made the very short journey to the Aerie. It was in the nick of time. Basch's commlink chirped as they landed before the Aerie's main gates.

"Was that your doing, Lord Serph?!" came the frantic voice of Anne Novak.

"My Lady," Basch said wearily, "I am not certain that His Majesty is in any condition to brief the embassy at this time." In a lower, but kind tone, he added, "He needs a few hours to recover."

In the background, Natalie Hogan called out, "The Chief blew up those priests? By surprise? Wow. Now that's taking the faith-based initiative."

Serph, for his part, did his best to not collapse to the ground as Basch led him toward the gates.

The guards on duty at the Aerie's front gates quickly rushed forward to help Serph and Basch. "Were you attacked, lords? Is there anything we can do?" asked their commander.

---

Cities throughout Altanar

Meanwhile, the next phase of the ASDF's campaign began. A series of suicide bombers attempted to damage or destroy government and military sites within Altanar proper. With martial law having been declared, and the streets full of police and soldiers enforcing the travel ban, most of them would not reach their intended destinations. But they would still manage to detonate most of their bombs, causing at least some of the desired destruction and confusion.

---

Po

"We are outnumbered, and have no allies now," Lord Sarkas said grimly, staring at a battle map. The map told the story all too clearly - their rebel forces were blocked by the loyalist military, which would eventually move on them.

"Well, I hope you have a better plan than sitting here," Lady Tarabesh said irritably. "Or we may as well surrender now."

"There's only one thing left to do," Sarkas said. "We need to do what those idiot Akamians were supposed to do in the first place. We need to take out Aelkyn, and also Cianar and Melika, if they ever emerge from wherever they're hiding."

"But what about the 'citizenship' the Ausserlanders gave them? Won't that rile up the little buggers?" Tarabesh said in frustration.

"It's a bluff - I'm sure of it. If they were going to intervene, they would have already," Sarkas replied. "And even if it isn't, we have little choice. We need the Aranathans out of the picture, and the resulting chaos and power vacuum that would bring, to have any chance to win this at all. I'm sending several of my best men across the front lines tonight. With luck, one of them will make it through - and that's all we need," Sarkas said.

Celavan

In a completely different part of the country, a different set of conspirators was coming to a similar conclusion.

"I know what the Ausserlanders said. I know that Aelkyn is bringing in allies from all over the place. Do you have any better ideas?" Sinis Kerilais snarled at Lord Pyrellis.

"If we can hold them off long enough to gain international sympathy..." Pyrellis began.

"Sympathy doesn't win you wars," Kerilais said. "And you and I both know that Aelkyn is just biding his time. When he moves, it'll be a hard fight, but we will eventually lose - especially if Aelkyn has brought in help from outside the country. And he's playing for keeps - just ask all those priests who poked Aelkyn, and ended up scattered across three provinces in little pieces for it."

"So you don't believe what people are saying - that it was divine intervention?" Pyrellis laughed sourly.

"Divine intervention in the form of high explosives, maybe," Kerilais snorted.

"All right then....so we need to smoke out wherever Aelkyn has Cianar and Melika hidden?" Pyrellis said. "Not at all," Kerilais said. "We just need to knock Aelkyn off. Then the lovely Queen and that old fart Cianar will have no choice but to show themselves - unless they want an empty throne. I'm putting together units now. One way or another, we'll knock him off. And when the other Aranathan bastards show themselves, we'll get them too. Once they're gone, who's left to choose? We've got as good a chance to win out then as anyone," Kerilais said.

Hall of the Pantheon, Altana Hol

By orders of High Priest Melakis, the Church of Altanar issued the following statement:

"The destruction of the churches that desecrated and despoiled our faith was unfortunate, but such is the fate of any nonbeliever who defies the Pantheon, and challenges both our Church and our rightful liege lord and government. The holy fire that rained down from the heavens was a destructive fire, but also a cleansing one. It removed the cancers of heresy and rebellion from the lands it touched. Those of faith know this to be a sign that those who stand against the twin pillars of Altanar - the Church and the King - shall face the eternal and neverending torment of the burning seven hells. May this be the beginning of the cleansing of all such heresy and treason from our lands."

OOC: I'm just going to skip ahead a bit. Assume that Cianar and Melika have arrived in the Empire, and are sitting in the Imperial Palace awaiting an audience with someone of great importance. It might be the Emperor, it might not be.

IC:

Imperial Palace of the Golden Dragon, Imperial City, Imperia Prime, Allech-Atreus

Saungvan Soou Repab, the personal assistant to the Emperor himself, bowed before the two foreign dignitaries who stood before him, Cianar and Melika Aranathas. The two, after having been transported over time and space, had been given the chance to clean up and sets of opulent robes, which they now wore. Saungvan wasn't sure if the decadent majesty of the Imperial Palace, with it's sixty-foot high domed, painted, inlaid ceilings would impress or repulse the two Altanari, but he was going to show off anyway.

"My lord and lady. I am Saungvan Soou Repab, assistant to His Most Excellent Imperial Majesty Emperor Allech-Atreus XVI. I welcome you on his behalf to the Empire."

* * *
Imperial Embassy, Ael Khalas, Altanar

It was nighttime, and Adhirilan Taar knelt down in the dark of his apartments. His hands crossed over his chessed, he held a small jewel in his left hand. Praying softly, he sat motionless.

The work of my life... leading my Five Legions... just as the gods intended...my mission, about to be fulfilled!

He was silent for a moment, then rose heavily to his knees, adjusting his silk brocade robes. Strapping on a swordbelt and a heavy jeweled blade, he pressed a button on his desk. Two masked Pulsar Guards entered.

"Summon Master Colonel Huiddel, tell him to marshal the Sunfuries. Send orders to my High Marshals waiting on Gindan to prepare the Five Legions for battle."

Cianar and Melika gave a graceful bow of their own in response. "Thank you. We are honored to be the first official visitors from our nation to yours," Melika said politely.

The guards on duty at the Aerie's front gates quickly rushed forward to help Serph and Basch. "Were you attacked, lords? Is there anything we can do?" asked their commander.

"Briefly," Serph said, shrugging. "The Lord-General insists that he be at my side whenever I am involved in a battle." He smiled wryly. "Lord Basch was not clear in this instance as to whether I should notify before or after such actions."

"It was quite clear, I felt," Basch insisted, "that I should know of any movements of Your Majesty before they are undertaken."

"I couldn't very well have the fleet of Krioval follow me there."

"So that was you." The soldier deflated. "You will put me into the grave far ahead of my time, Serph Dekker."

The Kriovalian king looked contrite. "It will not happen again. Besides, I'm getting too old for this sort of thing." He looked up at the waiting guards. "We should probably brief His Majesty on...certain matters."

Cianar and Melika gave a graceful bow of their own in response. "Thank you. We are honored to be the first official visitors from our nation to yours," Melika said politely.

Repab bowed. He was about to speak when another did first.

"I wish it were under more happy circumstances." Behind them, dressed in sable-lined silk robes with a battered sword strapped to his belt was a serious-looking white-bearded man. He smiled.

"Forgive me. I am Lord Privy Councillor Rehashan Allech-Atreus, advisor to the Emperor and granduncle to him as well. I am honored to make your acquaintance. But formalities must be put aside for now. My nephew has uncharacteristically requested a formal audience with you. The audience chamber is right through these doors." he gestured to a massive pair of polished bronze doors, their huge rings inlaid with jewels.

Heavily armed Pulsar Guards stood at attention, swathed in black, their eyes hidden by blue light. The massive gates opened, letting out a cool breeze of fragrant air. Before them was a long colonnade, open to the sky, about sixty feet in height, lined by massive marble columns inlaid with precious metals and jewel. Translucent silk tapetries hung behind crystal statues of Emperors long past, and in the wings and divans behind the rows of columns courtiers and nobles conversed quietely, eyeing the newcomers with interest.

At the end of the long colonnade, black marble stairs rose up to a huge dais, about twenty feet in the air, atop which was a red and gold silk curtain, supported by polished mahogany pillars, obscuring what one could expect was the throne. At the base of the sweeping stairs stood several opulently dressed officials, at the center of which was a dark-haired man who looked unpleasant and frowned at the approaching group. A man in blue robes stood to the side, watching disinterestedly.

Rehashan took a step in front of Cianar and Melika, and the unpleasant man also stepped forward.

"What are you doing, bringing these foreigners into the presence of the Most Holy Emperor? Look at them, dressed in noble robes- what in the name of the Heavens are you doing?" he yelled, his voice filling the huge room.

"Keep your voice, you old fool! These are honored nobles from the land of Altanar, royal blood of the King, who is a friend of the Most Excellent Imperial Majesty! At his request they are here! Step aside, Speaker!"

Rehashan drew his old blade and levelled it at the angry man, who scowled and drew his own blade. The two circled each other for a moment, the only sound in the room the patter of their shoes.

"Enough!" came a voice. Everyone looked to the dais, Reshashan and the Speaker sheathing their blades and kneeling to the ground.

"I have asked that these two be brought into my Empire and my home. They are accorded the pleasure of my grace and are to be defended as I myself am defended. Let the honored elder and the royal queen ascend my throne and come to meet me."

All the Imperials bowed their heads to the ground. Rehashan rose, beckoning the two Altanari, walking up the throne.

As they reached the top, the curtain slid back to reveal the Emperor, seated upon a hugh throne carved from a single jewel and inlaid with gold filigree dragons. The Emperor himself was a youngish man, looking no more than 30 years, and was dressed in the most opulent gold and red robes, his tall mitred helm decked in jewels and silver, a gold frame surrounding his feature. His eyes were green and his hair was black. He smiled at the two Altanari, and rose.

Taking Rehashan's hand, he smiled. "Honored Uncle, it is good to see you again." turning to the two new visitors, he smiled again. "My friends, I welcome you to the Empire." his voice was soft and calm, unlike the sound that had just come from the mysterious throne. "I am sorry the circumstances could not be happier, but I am glad that you are in good health. My Queen, I trust that your child is thus far in good health?" he asked.

Imperial Palace of the Golden Dragon, Allech-Atreus

"Yes, my child is well, and we have you to thank for that in large measure. We are very much grateful for your hospitality in this difficult moment," Melika said. "I trust our visit has not caused too much difficulty?" she asked, looking back briefly down the stairs.

---

The Aerie

"Of course, your Majesty," the guard commander replied to Serph. "Please follow me." The guard commander escorted Serph and Basch into the palace, leading them to the throne room. When they arrived, Aelkyn was there, poring over maps of the troubled regions with various military personnel. The King looked up when they walked in. "Welcome back," he said. "I'm glad you made it back unharmed....and I must say, you do know how to make a point," he added wryly.

Inimena Fortress, Isilkara Province

Ikinar Inimena, Lord of Isilkara Province, climbed restlessly from his bed and walked to the window, staring out over the walls of his fortress. ASDF troops, Celavanian Guards and his own personal troops stood guard everywhere, watching the air and sea for the Altanari government attack everyone expected to happen eventually.

"Come back to bed already, Iki," Makar Ankrina grumbled, shifting restlessly in the bed. "You've been less fun than riding a wild apa for days now."

"I've seen more dead bodies in a week than I ever expected to in my entire life," Inimena retorted in a low voice. "Being in Celavan was bad enough. Don't expect me to be cheerful."

"Oh, not this again," Ankrina snapped, jumping out of the bed. "You knew what you were getting into. Do you have to bring it home with you?"

"Do you have to be so heartless?" Inimena snapped angrily. "Yes, I knew what I was getting into, but....I didn't expect all this."

"You're going to need to get used to it," Ankrina snapped. "We're in a war, and these people you're feeling so softhearted for are the ones who've been oppressing Akamians for decades. We need to do whatever has to be done to win this."

"Congratulations for memorizing the ASDF recruiting posters," Inimena snapped back, turning once more to the window.

"Oh, I give up! Come find me when you're not being such a drag. In the meantime, I'm going for a walk. Maybe one of the guards out there will be more fun then you are right now," Ankrina growled, grabbing a wine bottle from a side table and walking out in a huff.

Inimena said nothing, still staring out the window.

(OOC: an apa is an animal similar to a horse, except they have sharp, fanglike teeth and are more than willing to use them. They are found in Altanar's northwestern plains, in the Argali region. Warriors from there use them as riding animals.)

(OOC: for those interested, a map of Ael Khalas is now posted here (http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r56/smurfie_bucket/akmap.jpg). It's not complete yet, but it gives you a rough idea where you are.)

Imperial Palace of the Golden Dragon, Allech-Atreus

"Yes, my child is well, and we have you to thank for that in large measure. We are very much grateful for your hospitality in this difficult moment," Melika said. "I trust our visit has not caused too much difficulty?" she asked, looking back briefly down the stairs.


Rehashan smirked, and the Emperor laughed. "Oh, don't worry. It's all part of the court ceremony. True, Speaker Kim is a notorious xenophobe, but he is a very capable man."

Turning to Cianar, he clasped his hands in front of his body. "Honored elder, welcome. I am sorry to pull you from your retirement under these circumstances. There are quarters for yourself and your daughter-in-law set up in my own Imperial wings, suich as befitting a foreign dignitary of your stature. I do not expect you to make obeisance before my throne as your are here on my invitation and not to make tribute. I shall introduce you to my wife and my sons, but before that I would be pleased to have physicians look to your health and safety."

He waved a hand, and two men in black, red-lined robes stepped forward, bowing. The Emperor turned back. "These two gentlemen are to be well trusted. My Granduncle will accompany you. Please, be happy, and enjoy the surroundings."

He stepped backward, smiling.

Cianar gave the Emperor a courteous nod, of the sort one gives to someone worthy of respect. "I have no doubt we shall do so. Your friendship and courtesy has been without reproach, and we are indeed thankful for it. I only speak for myself, but if there is ever anything that a retired former monarch can do to assist you, you need only ask," he grinned.

"That goes for myself as well, and I know that my husband feels the same way," Melika added. "Altanari believe in repaying the kindnesses shown to us, so if there is ever anything we can do, please do not hesitate to ask," the Altanari queen said. She then turned to her father-in-law. "Shall we?" she asked, gesturing towards the two men waiting for them. Cianar nodded, and the two Altanari royals gave another respectful nod to the Emperor, before turning to be escorted out.

The Aerie

"Of course, your Majesty," the guard commander replied to Serph. "Please follow me." The guard commander escorted Serph and Basch into the palace, leading them to the throne room. When they arrived, Aelkyn was there, poring over maps of the troubled regions with various military personnel. The King looked up when they walked in. "Welcome back," he said. "I'm glad you made it back unharmed....and I must say, you do know how to make a point," he added wryly.

"Pious traitors are the worst kind," Serph replied. "They internalize the deception, and believe it fully." Changing course suddenly, he added, "I will see that the churches are fully rebuilt." He trailed off, and began to lean even more heavily on his companion.

"Is there somewhere...?" Basch began to ask, trying to talk and prop up Serph at the same time. Back home, he might have simply scooped up the other man and carried him off to bed. But that would hardly do in the palace of a foreign monarch.

The Aerie

"Of course," Aelkyn said, gesturing to some of the palace servitors, who quickly stepped forward. "Please escort these gentlemen to the guest rooms in the west wing, and provide them anything they need." The servants nodded. Aelkyn turned back to Basch and Serph. "I am honored to offer you the hospitality of my house. Please do not hesitate to ask for anything you need or desire."

---

Royal Intelligence HQ, Fort Olen, Ael Khalas

Defense Minister Khaskereth and Intelligence Director Kamalek pored over the latest reports from the front lines. "Mass defections?" Khaskereth asked her.

"I wouldn't be so optimistic as to say 'mass'," Kamalek cautioned her boss. "But the destruction of the churches, and the pronouncement from Melakis, seems to be having the desired effect, on Sarkas' forces at least. They're definitely losing people from the ranks. We can surmise that the more religious ones in his crew may be deciding to bolt."

"No such luck with our Akamian friends, though, I take it," Khaskereth said.

"No, sir," Kamalek replied. "If anything, they seem to be digging in for a long fight. While I admire the King's desire to limit collateral damage, I don't know if waiting much longer is a good idea. The longer we give the ASDF and Pyrellis' people to build their strength, the harder it will be for us to root them out in the end."

"Yes, if all things were equal. But from what his Majesty has told me, he has a plan to get around that," Khaskereth said.

"One he can't share with his Intelligence Director?" Kamalek said, raising an eyebrow.

"One he hasn't shared with me, even," Khaskereth replied wryly.

General Taar rose from his knees, his daily prayers complete. Master Colonel Jan Huiddel stood behind him.

"My Lord General, the Sunfury legions are ready to deploy. Lord Marshals Settas, Kulmangash, Vedloh and Chaldaris are ready as well. Inquisitor Darak has been asking questions, my lord."

Taar closed his eyes. "Darak is of no consequence. I have found the Scion. Deploy the troops, just as we planned."

* * *
The Streets of Ael Khalas, just outside the Imperial Embassy

The morning was calm, despite the reports of the destruction of the temples. People went about their daily lives as ordinarily as they could, and police were still on the corners. The walls of the Imperial compound were manned with black-visored troops.

On all four sides of the embassy were two double iron gates, anachronisms in the modern age. They creaked open slowly at the same moment, and hundreds of soldiers poured out of the compound into the streets, firing at the Altanari police. Behind them, armored APCS rolled out into the streets, smashing over cars and zooming down the city blocks. At the corners, they would fire bursts of ammo, and belch our their soldiers (http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a188/kuroutesshin/apc.jpg)

Sporting active camoflage (http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a188/kuroutesshin/gunners.jpg), the Guardsmen spread quickly, moving north fast. They advanced quickly, with their officers issuing orders, and as soon as they had killed or incapacitated the police and anyone in their way, the Guards themselves moved on. But right behind them were black-armored soldiers carrying stunsticks (http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a188/kuroutesshin/11864-cci.jpg) to keep order.

In the control room (http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a188/kuroutesshin/e4star53.jpg) of the embassy, General Taar looked impassionately at the viewscreen and progress readouts. The 2000 men of the Sunfuries were starting to spread out... their advance would be slowed.

"Colonel Huiddel. Order Captains Delikar, Otemba, Usman, and Selawankash deploy their warpgate devices. Bring the Shadowcats in to bloster the advance. What are our casualties?"

Huiddel punched in some orders on a keypad, several wires plugged into his head and neural implants. "Yes, my lord. Casualties: four deaths, small arms fire or friendly fire. 30 small wounds. That is all. We are closing in on the target, sir."

Taar turned back to the screen. "Order more APCs up. Storm the Aerie."

* * *
Palace of the Golden Dragon, Imperial City, Imperia Prime, Allech-Atreus

The two doctors had done their work, checking the two royals out and pronouncing them in good health. Rehashan came to collect them.

"The Emperor has ordered lodging for you in the Silver Mansion. Your things have already been sent ahead, but his Majesty wanted me to accompany you." He led them down a hallway and out into the bright sun. The trees and flowers were all in bloom, and the three looked out onto a veritable forest in the middle of the palace complex. Cultured gardens gave an appearance of ordered wildness. Three magnificent horses stood waiting.

Rehashan smiled. "My nephew is somewhat old-fashioned, he wanted you to recieve the best of the palace. You may ask me any questions you like about the Empire, from what I'm told ambassador Kappmaan has been so busy he hasn't had much time for whimsy."

RADF Command Center, Fort Olen, Ael Khalas

Alarms began sounding at the command center, as the communications officer in charge turned to the Defense Minister. "Minister, we are under attack! Several RP units reported being fired on!"

"What? Where?" Khaskereth said. "Is it Akamians or Sarkas' forces?"

"Neither, sir," the comm officer replied. "Several reports have come in all along Merikatha Parkway, leading from the Diplomatic Section. No identity on the attackers as yet, sir. But we have reports already of heavy RP casualties."

Khaskereth swore. "Leading to where, damnit?" The comm officer looked at the map screen indicating where the reports came from. He turned white. "Sir....the attackers appear to be moving up Merikatha Parkway towards the Aerie and the Legislature Building."

"Mobilize all Royal Guards and Army units we have in the CMD now! Begin redeploying towards the palace and the lege! Alert the units on guard there! And order the 1st and 2nd air wings to scramble!" Khaskereth yelled, face reddening in anger. "I don't care who's attacking us, but we're going to throw everything we've got at them! Move, damn you!" the Defense Minister yelled, as men began scrambling to carry out his orders.

---

Streets of Ael Khalas

Remnants of Royal Police and Ael Khalas Municipal Police units that had already encountered Taar's forces retreated up Merikatha Parkway, struggling to re-establish a front line and give the RADF time to bring in reinforcements. RADF forces that had already been garrisoned in the Central Military District began moving to provide backup. As alarms began to sound at the Royal Police and Royal Guards complexes just west of the Aerie, units began to mobilize, moving to block access to the Aerie and the Legislature Building.

---

Palace of the Golden Dragon, Allech-Atreus

Cianar and Melika took a moment to admire the scenery. "There is one thing I am curious about," Melika said. "The Emperor seems quite young, only slightly older than my husband. I hope he did not come to the throne under the kind of tragic circumstances that Aelkyn did."

Embassy of the Free Lands of Krioval

General Taar wasn't the only person paying close attention to the situation on the streets of the Altanari capital.

"Fuckin' hell." Natalie Hogan spit contemptuously on the ground, all thought of embassy etiquette banished from her person. She turned on her heel and pointed to one of the diplomatic support staff. "Home. Inform and request immediate backup for the security of the embassy and the government of Altanar. Highest possible priority."

"Yes, ma'am. Eh...what about His Majesty?"

"I think that the Lord Serph will have to make do for the time being with Basch and the dragon." She furiously punched in commands into a secure commlink, and praised whichever God had managed to keep the links open. "Basch, we have a situation," she said curtly.


The Aerie


The Kriovalian pantheon was a dynamic one, and occasionally, Devokai could be created or destroyed, forming from or returning to the essence of the Universe. Or so it was said. Supposedly, the collective thoughts of Krioval's gold dragons had led to Bahamut. Now, the collective thoughts of Kriovallers began to condense into being.

Its physical manifestation was unlike that of a typical Devokai - it appeared human. Like the Destroyer, the projection was male, with fair skin and light hair. However, this manifestation favored the forces of Light, and born of Serph's grudging recognition of the king's spiritual aura, the entity borrowed from his memories to create a personality.

And so the Synthetic God, number thirteen, was born.

OOC: Yay! I wanted to do this for a while, and now I have the chance!

The Aerie

As alarms began to sound throughout Altanar's royal palace, several Aranathan Guards, led by their commander, rushed up to the King. "Your Majesty, Central Command has warned us of an attack. Unknown forces are attacking the capital, and may be heading this way. We have to get you to safety."

Aelkyn stared, wordlessly, for a long second at the commander. Then he spoke.

"No, commander. I am not about to run away and expect other men and women to do the fighting and dying while I hide like a coward."

"But your Majesty - " the commander was cut off. "I've made my decision, commander. Ready my gear. This is my house. I am about to defend it," the King said.

Streets of Ael Khalas

Remnants of Royal Police and Ael Khalas Municipal Police units that had already encountered Taar's forces retreated up Merikatha Parkway, struggling to re-establish a front line and give the RADF time to bring in reinforcements. RADF forces that had already been garrisoned in the Central Military District began moving to provide backup. As alarms began to sound at the Royal Police and Royal Guards complexes just west of the Aerie, units began to mobilize, moving to block access to the Aerie and the Legislature Building.

On the ground, more Legion Guardsmen began to pour out of the warpgates set up on the ground. Heavier APCs and tanks began flowing out of the shimmering dimensional gate. On the other side, thousands more troops waited.

From the control center, Huiddel sent out the orders given from Taar. The forces were quickly overrunning the Royal Police forces, which had been taken by surprise. Casualties were growing slowly as the Altanari began to get organized, but there was nothing that could stand in their way.

Taar frowned. The Kriovallers were the most dangerous. What had happened to that Temple rivalled the power of an Imperial capital ship. He closed his eyes. The power of the Avatars would protect him.

---

Palace of the Golden Dragon, Allech-Atreus

Cianar and Melika took a moment to admire the scenery. "There is one thing I am curious about," Melika said. "The Emperor seems quite young, only slightly older than my husband. I hope he did not come to the throne under the kind of tragic circumstances that Aelkyn did."

Rehashan laughed. "I'm not familiar with the circumstances of your king's ascension, but my nephew is older than he looks. He's about 150 years old in standard years- we age much more slowly here in the Empire. Why, his eldest son is about 90. Myself, I don't mind telling you that I'm 210 years old."

He jerked the reins of his horse. "No, he came to power quite peacefully. His father, in the tradition of his ancestors, called him to the capital and named him the heir to the throne and the power of heaven. Allech-Atreus XVI has ruled for a great many years, and has overseen huge changes in the Empire. Some wars and rebellions, but that is no different than any other nation."

Streets of Ael Khalas

Royal and municipal police units, now backed by regular Army and Guards units, began a staggered retreat towards the Aerie. Unmanned fighters of the Royal Air Force soared overhead, looking for targets.

---

The Aerie

"Who is attacking us?" Aelkyn asked the Defense Minister via comm line.

"We have yet to make a positive identification...wait, something just came in. Some of the survivors reported seeing the forces attacking coming out of the Allech-Atreus embassy. We've received confirmation of that from other legations in the Diplomatic Section, and several other delegations are asking us what the hell is going on," Khaskereth said soberly.

They have my wife and child, and my father... Aelkyn thought, a stab of pain in his heart. He shook it off. "Send the 2nd and 4th Royal Guards brigades to their embassy and surround it. Do not enter their grounds yet, but try to block them from moving. Warn the other embassies there of what is happening. And order our ambassador in Allech-Atreus to find out what the hell they're playing at. Also, warn our forces on the ground about their capabilities. We know they can enter and leave areas at will, without warning. Expect the unexpected."

"Yes, you should."

Behind the King was Inquisitor Darak, red-faced and looking exhausted. With him was the unnamed Aushedar from the embassy. He threw his hands up in defense as weapons were levelled at him.

"Don't shoot. I'm not part of this. I have no control over the forces attacking right now... but I know who does, and I know who's been causing most of the problems in the capital."

The Aushedar stepped forward and threw a burnt hunk of steel on the floor, horribly twisted and burned. "We pulled that from the wreckage of the Ambassador's car. It's an Imperial design."

Darak looked at the King with weary eyes. "General Taar is behind these attacks. I have no idea why. I don't even know if the Emperor's orders are being followed here. I haven't been able to contact the Empire due to the General's commands."

He wobbled slightly, and collapsed into a heap. Blood stained the back of his jacket. The Aushedar dropped. "He was hit when we fled the embassy, Taar know's we're gone."

* * *
Imperial Embassy, Ael Khalas

General Taar sipped a cup of tea and relaxed in a leather chair as battle reports flowed in. Huiddel was fully strapped into the neural net, a visor covering his eyes and his hands tapping at invisible keys. Reports indicated that Altanari forces were trying to encircle the embassy... but Taar was ready for them. Tanks were preparing to warp into the city to suppor the ground troops, it was a simple matter of changing their destination.

Of course, they had to be careful not to harm any of the other embassies on the Row. One wrong move and the Ausserlanders would be down on them.

He sipped thoughfully, absentmindely rubbing the leather covering of his prayer book. Once they had taken the Aerie and secured the government, they would have the Scion.

"My Lord General." a Liutenant saluted. "Inquisitor Darak and his Aushedar has fled the compound, against orders. We wounded the Inquisitor, but they escaped."

Taar waved his hand. "It's of no consequence. Summon up another legion to bolster the Sunfuries and the Shadowcats. Keep the attack steady and sure, don't leave them any time to fortify. Keep pushing, right through to the Aerie."

The Aerie

"Tend to these men! Quickly now!" Aelkyn snapped. His guard commander summoned medical personnel, who began seeing to Darak and the Aushedar.

Aelkyn turned back to the comm officer who had patched him through to the RADF command center. "Minister Khaskereth, are you there?"

"Yes, milord. Go ahead," the Defense Minister replied.

"I am hereby ordering that if something happens to me, or I am taken prisoner, that Jaris Krytellin is to assume control of the government as Prime Minister. If he is unable to, the Chief Justice shall do so, in accordance with the Constitutional order of authority. You are not to surrender under any circumstances - even if they threaten to harm me or the Royal Family. Altanar will not suffer such indignities without a fight. Is that understood?" the King said.

"Yes, your Majesty - loud and clear. We will do so," Khaskereth said, a bit more steel entering his voice upon hearing Aelkyn's determination.

---

Altanari Embassy, Allech-Atreus

"This can't be happening," Ambassador Melias Kerikala said. "It has to be some kind of mistake!"

"There is no mistake, Ambassador," his Royal Guards security officer said bitterly. "Their forces are besieging the capital and the King even as we speak."

Kerikala turned soberly to his desk. "Then we have little choice, do we?" He quickly drafted a note on the embassy letterhead. "Deliver this to the appropriate people within the Allech-Atrean government, and send followup copies electronically and by voice. I want to make sure the right people get the message. I also want a copy sent to Jinella Agaranth at the UN, for posting there."

The note read: On behalf of his Altanari Majesty, King Aelkyn, and the government of the sovereign and independent Kingdom of Altanar, we formally request a meeting with your government immediately to explain the outrage that is currently being perpetrated by your national armed forces on the streets of our capital. We demand to know why your forces are attacking the capital and ruler of a sovereign nation, without provocation, and against all international norms and common decency.

---

Palace of the Golden Dragon, Allech-Atreus

Rehashan laughed. "I'm not familiar with the circumstances of your king's ascension, but my nephew is older than he looks. He's about 150 years old in standard years- we age much more slowly here in the Empire. Why, his eldest son is about 90. Myself, I don't mind telling you that I'm 210 years old."

He jerked the reins of his horse. "No, he came to power quite peacefully. His father, in the tradition of his ancestors, called him to the capital and named him the heir to the throne and the power of heaven. Allech-Atreus XVI has ruled for a great many years, and has overseen huge changes in the Empire. Some wars and rebellions, but that is no different than any other nation."

Melika grinned wryly at the comment about ages. "I wish I aged as slowly. Age does not grace a lady very well," she replied. "And as for wars and rebellions, we'd been doing pretty well on that front until now. I hope that the problems back home will be resolved soon. Would it be possible to contact my husband, to let him know we arrived here without issue?"

The Aerie

The boyish figure moved toward Serph and gestured above the sleeping man's head. The monarch awakened instantly. "So you are real, it would appear."

"YES." The nascent deity shook his head, blond hair somehow remaining immobile. "That tone is unnecessary when conversing with you, Lord Serph. You must leave Altanar at once. Take the Lord Basch and Bahamut and fly up."

"Up, huh."

"That is correct. You will be transported to the Lord Koro. He waits for you."

"I am not one to defy a God, synthetic or otherwise."

"There is a reason for that, Lord Serph."

"I suppose I will be discovering that reason soon enough?"

"That is correct. Goodbye, Lord Serph."

The king did not take long to prod the sleeping Basch into motion, and together, they located Bahamut without alerting the Aerie guard of their departure. Above the palace complex, a dragon with two passengers lifted into the air and disappeared into a dimensional rift.

The "Synthetic God" made his way out of the room and counted the seconds until a suspicious guard accosted him.

The Aerie

"Tend to these men! Quickly now!" Aelkyn snapped. His guard commander summoned medical personnel, who began seeing to Darak and the Aushedar.

Aelkyn turned back to the comm officer who had patched him through to the RADF command center. "Minister Khaskereth, are you there?"

"Yes, milord. Go ahead," the Defense Minister replied.

"I am hereby ordering that if something happens to me, or I am taken prisoner, that Jaris Krytellin is to assume control of the government as Prime Minister. If he is unable to, the Chief Justice shall do so, in accordance with the Constitutional order of authority. You are not to surrender under any circumstances - even if they threaten to harm me or the Royal Family. Altanar will not suffer such indignities without a fight. Is that understood?" the King said.

"Yes, your Majesty - loud and clear. We will do so," Khaskereth said, a bit more steel entering his voice upon hearing Aelkyn's determination.

the Aushedar stood as Darak was tended to. "Your Majesty... Taar has not moved fast enough. If your messages have gone through to the Empire, then our government will realize what is happening. And when that happens, Taar will be sorely punished."

---

Altanari Embassy, Allech-Atreus

"This can't be happening," Ambassador Melias Kerikala said. "It has to be some kind of mistake!"

"There is no mistake, Ambassador," his Royal Guards security officer said bitterly. "Their forces are besieging the capital and the King even as we speak."

Kerikala turned soberly to his desk. "Then we have little choice, do we?" He quickly drafted a note on the embassy letterhead. "Deliver this to the appropriate people within the Allech-Atrean government, and send followup copies electronically and by voice. I want to make sure the right people get the message. I also want a copy sent to Jinella Agaranth at the UN, for posting there."

The note read: On behalf of his Altanari Majesty, King Aelkyn, and the government of the sovereign and independent Kingdom of Altanar, we formally request a meeting with your government immediately to explain the outrage that is currently being perpetrated by your national armed forces on the streets of our capital. We demand to know why your forces are attacking the capital and ruler of a sovereign nation, without provocation, and against all international norms and common decency.

Lord High Chancellor Ruhomash Zagzser threw the letter down onto his desk and swore.

"The hell! Our national armed forces? The only men we have are defending the embassies! Why hasn't Ambassador Kappmaan sent us any communique? It has to be a mistake."

Across from him, Director of State Ruhomash Gishgashani pulled up some files. "Our communiques have gone unanswered. General Taar has not answered our summons. What are we facing? Mutinious action? The Old Man is still out on Jabal Kaman, trying to figure out what happened with the Dakashi. Kappmaan is silent. Bring Kerikala in to the Sun Chamber and I will speak with him."

---

Palace of the Golden Dragon, Allech-Atreus

Melika grinned wryly at the comment about ages. "I wish I aged as slowly. Age does not grace a lady very well," she replied. "And as for wars and rebellions, we'd been doing pretty well on that front until now. I hope that the problems back home will be resolved soon. Would it be possible to contact my husband, to let him know we arrived here without issue?"[/QUOTE]

Rehashan pulled at his long beard. "My lady does not show her age as much as she thinks. This old man has seen many years and many courtiers, and she outshines many. I am sure that we could try and contact the King, but I confess that such things are beyond my knowledge. It may be possible, and I will get to it."

The three came upon a building, a cottage rising three stories with a stone balustrade. Tall windows gleamed in the sun, and liveried servants came to them. Rehashan remained mounted. "The servants will show you to your quarters. Please, make yourself at home. A messenger will be sent for you."

He turned the horse, jerked the reins, and galloped off.

* * *
Control Room, Ael Khalas

"My lord general, we have confirmed transmission. The Altanari have contacted the Empire." Huiddel said, still leading the battle.

Taar rose slowly. "Then we must act. Summon my honor guard. We are taking the prize ourselves. Is the Scion in the Aerie?"

"Yes, my lord. Your guards are ready."

"Good. Master Colonel Huiddel, you have the command."

Taar brushed his robes and strapped on a wicked looking blade. Twelve red-armored soldiers joined him- each with a long plasma pistol and a chainsword. The wall at one end of the room shimmered, and they rushed through, Taar calmly following behind.

~ ~ ~
The Aerie, Ael Khalas

On the other side was the room Aelkyn and his men were in. The honor Guardsmen appeared out of nowhere, firing their blasters at the guards and cutting down anyony with a weapon. It was over before it had begun, the elite troops of the Empire seizing the room. Two men grabbed Aelkyn and held him tight.

Taar walked forward, his robes flowing behind him. "Your majesty. I am here for the Scion."

The Aerie, Ael Khalas

On the other side was the room Aelkyn and his men were in. The honor Guardsmen appeared out of nowhere, firing their blasters at the guards and cutting down anyony with a weapon. It was over before it had begun, the elite troops of the Empire seizing the room. Two men grabbed Aelkyn and held him tight.

Taar walked forward, his robes flowing behind him. "Your majesty. I am here for the Scion."

He walked calmly into the room completely unperturbed by the violence. In fact, for a seventeen-year-old boy, he looked positively beatific. He pulled down the black hood to reveal his face.

"Good evening, General Taar. I would like to have a few words with you." He paused, but his expression remained emotionless. "Or I could start killing honor guards. Your call."

The Aerie Throne Room

Aelkyn stared coldly at Taar. "I don't know what in the seven hells you're playing at with this backstabbing treachery, nor do I care. You have violated the honor and sovereignty of my nation and killed my fellow citizens. You'll get absolutely no cooperation from me." The King then paused as the beatific child walked into the room and made his statement. "You know, you could just kill them now. Really, I wouldn't mind," he said.

---

Outside the Aerie

More units of the RADF poured into the broad avenue surrounding the Aerie, the heavy beating their comrades had taken not seeming to deter them in the least. A group of Aranathan Guards and Royal Guards prepared themselves to make a suicide lunge for the throne room, crossing their weapons in front of their chests and making a brief prayer to the Pantheon.

---

Altanari Embassy, Allech-Atreus

"With all respect, Ambassador, we should return home. Or at least let some of the guards accompany you. I don't trust these people anymore," the commander of the embassy guards told Ambassador Kerikala.

"They're more than capable of overwhelming our entire embassy garrison, or blocking us from leaving, if they want," Kerikala said chidingly. "We're already in the frying pan, might as well jump into the fire. If I'm lucky, I can start putting this fire out. And if not...we're no worse off than we were before." Kerikala walked outside the embassy to travel to where the Allech-Atreus officials were waiting.

---

RADF Command Center, Fort Olen, Ael Khalas

"We're continuing to send forces into the area, but it appears the Aerie is on the verge of falling," Khaskereth said soberly to Jaris Krytellin, in the RADF Provincial Command Center in Nalioka.

"But why are they attacking? What's the gain for them?" Krytellin asked.

"We don't know, Prime Minister. But per the last orders we received from the King, we are to transfer command authority temporarily to you. What are your orders, sir?" Khaskereth asked.

Krytellin pondered the situation. "Is there any chance for us to get the King out of there?"

"The King refused to evacuate, sir. This is why he gave those orders," Khaskereth said. The expression on his face said it all.

Krytellin slapped the desktop angrily. Damnit, Aelkyn, of all the times to have stubborn pride... The Prime Minister straightened. "Order any available forces in Staria, Altana Hol, Narraskath and Draskatar provinces to begin moving towards the capital. Activate all reserve forces and begin moving them to the front lines also - the rebels may try to take advantage of this situation. And begin evacuating all command personnel from Fort Olen, towards Lukisha."

"Yes, sir. Understood," the Defense Minister said.

Director of State Gishgashani recieved the ambassador from Altanar in the meeting chamber.

"Ambassador, welcome. I will cut right to the chase- we have no idea what is going on with our embassy. We have been unable to contact General Taar or Ambassador Kappmaan. Since you seem to know more, I'll let you do the talking.

* * *
The Aerie Throne Room

Taar looked long at the boy. "Yes, I have no doubt that you could. But you are not the Scion, Avata Dahrasanna. Kill them! They are ready to die, and by the hand of the deciever they would be glad to."

His head shot to the King. Ripping a pistol from his robes, he extended his arm to the side and aimed. "The Scion has already been found. He is not a mortal man. Bring him to me, and the bloodshed will end!"

The Aushedar, hidden, moved slowly from his place. With a swift cut, he slashed the neck of a guard and rushed the General. Taar, without blinking, swiveled or his foot, his robes swishing majestically, and he fired a single shot through the throat of the Aushedar. He crumpled and slid a few feet, a thing trail of blood behind him.

He shouted wildly, his calm, collected nature disappearing. "Avata Dahrasanna will not take the Scion! You cannot impede my true sight! Bring me the Scion! Bring me Jaris Krytellin!"

The Aerie Throne Room

Aelkyn stared coldly at Taar. "I don't know what in the seven hells you're playing at with this backstabbing treachery, nor do I care. You have violated the honor and sovereignty of my nation and killed my fellow citizens. You'll get absolutely no cooperation from me." The King then paused as the beatific child walked into the room and made his statement. "You know, you could just kill them now. Really, I wouldn't mind," he said.

The "boy" proceeded to hold his arms out, and a weapon materialized in either hand. Some cross between an ordinary sword and a lightsaber, the one in his right hand radiated the light of Creation, while from the left no light appeared to escape. "Let's see what the General has to say."

Taar looked long at the boy. "Yes, I have no doubt that you could. But you are not the Scion, Avata Dahrasanna. Kill them! They are ready to die, and by the hand of the deciever they would be glad to."

"That is not my name." When a few incautious guards moved toward him, he exploded in a flurry of activity that left them dead, lying in pools of blood. Somehow, the "boy" was completely free of the liquid, as were his weapons. He looked at the General, as if probing his essence directly. "For one with such affinity for immortals, you certainly treat them with disrespect. Though I wonder what you plan to do with this 'Scion', should he be brought to you." Waiting for a reply, he idly twirled his twin blades in sweeping arcs.

"Director Gishgashani, Ambassador Kaapmaan is dead - his vehicle was bombed. General Taar told us that he was supposed to be taking his place, with the approval of your government. Now, he's leading an assault on our royal palace, backed by a large number of your troops. According to the Inquisitor, Darak, that you sent to Altanar, the vehicle was bombed using one of your devices. I have no better idea than you why Taar is doing this, but if he's strayed outside your orders, you need to help us rein him in now. We've already had serious casualties, and this has the potential to cause severe, perhaps permanent, damage to our relations," Kerikala said bluntly. "Under these circumstances, until we know more, I must also insist that Queen Melika and the King's father be returned to our embassy at once."

---

The Aerie Throne Room

"And why should I bring Jaris here? What guarantee do I have that you will not harm him? He is not only the Prime Minister of this nation, he is also my friend. Why should I trust you not to harm him, after these actions you have committed?" Aelkyn said, with a voice coated in pure frost.

"Director Gishgashani, Ambassador Kaapmaan is dead - his vehicle was bombed. General Taar told us that he was supposed to be taking his place, with the approval of your government. Now, he's leading an assault on our royal palace, backed by a large number of your troops. According to the Inquisitor, Darak, that you sent to Altanar, the vehicle was bombed using one of your devices. I have no better idea than you why Taar is doing this, but if he's strayed outside your orders, you need to help us rein him in now. We've already had serious casualties, and this has the potential to cause severe, perhaps permanent, damage to our relations," Kerikala said bluntly. "Under these circumstances, until we know more, I must also insist that Queen Melika and the King's father be returned to our embassy at once."

Gishgashani was silent for a long pause, nothing registering on his face.

"I see. If you so desire, Cianar and Melika will be handed over to you. We will deal with this outrage ourselves, do not worry. Taar will answer for what he has done."

---

The Aerie Throne Room

"And why should I bring Jaris here? What guarantee do I have that you will not harm him? He is not only the Prime Minister of this nation, he is also my friend. Why should I trust you not to harm him, after these actions you have committed?" Aelkyn said, with a voice coated in pure frost.

Taar exploded in fury. "Tempter! Deciever! Immortal monster! Kill me, bu you will not succeed in your actions! Dahrasanna is the shadowy beast that obfuscates and makes lies! You cannot be him, and you cannot harm one who has the blessing of the holy Avatar!"

pulling his sword from it's sheath, he levelled it at the boy. A large ruby on the pommel glowed soflty.

"Jaris Krytellin is the Scion of the Avatar! If you will not bring him willingly, then I will raze the city to the ground and find him myself!"

Kerikala nodded at Gishgashani's statement. "It would be best for Cianar and Melika to return to our embassy for now, just to avoid any misunderstandings. May I ask when you will be dealing with Taar? He is rampaging through our capital even as we speak."

---

The Aerie Throne Room

Aelkyn stared incredulously at Taar. "Jaris isn't in the Aerie. He isn't even in Ael Khalas right now. You've done all this for nothing!"

(OOC: He had gone back to Nalioka after talking to Aelkyn earlier in the thread, although I admit that probably wasn't clear. I apologize if it wasn't.)

Taar exploded in fury. "Tempter! Deciever! Immortal monster! Kill me, bu you will not succeed in your actions! Dahrasanna is the shadowy beast that obfuscates and makes lies! You cannot be him, and you cannot harm one who has the blessing of the holy Avatar!"

pulling his sword from it's sheath, he levelled it at the boy. A large ruby on the pommel glowed soflty.

"Jaris Krytellin is the Scion of the Avatar! If you will not bring him willingly, then I will raze the city to the ground and find him myself!"

He dismissed the dark blade and summoned another light one, and then performed a quick series of backflips, landing to the right of the General. The hood once more covered most of his face. "Razing cities is hard work, General. I should know. I wonder, though, why any self-respecting deity would choose a mass murderer as a spiritual representative." He took a few steps toward Taar. "Perhaps you could enlighten me?" he asked, his tone manifesting the height of irony.

Gishgashani frowned. "That is something that I cannot tell you at the moment. But you have my personal assurance that all that has gone wrong will be righted. If you'll excuse me, I need to speak to the Emperor."

He rose, turned, and left the ambassador by himself.

* * *
At the Imperial Cottage, Saungvaan Soou Repab entered and bowed to Cianar and Melika.

"My lord and lady, Ambassador Kerikala has requested that you be transferred to the Altanari Embassy. The Emperor, though not wishing to lose his guests, has agreed. I apologize for the abruptness of it all, but Ambassador Kerikala just only came with the request. We will have your things sent out- there is a gravcar waiting."

* * *

Streets of Ael Khalas, Altanar

Only an hour or so after Gishgashani left the Ambassador and spoke to the Emperor, the fighting was still raging in the streets of Ael Khalas. Imperial Legionaries were still battling Altanari forces, and Colonel Huiddel continued to lead the forces from his cyberspace vantage point.

Hooked into the Imperial Battlenet, Huiddel issued orders to his commanders on the ground, virtual maps giving him a layout of the whole city. He was in complete control.

That is, until something started to change. He didn't notice it at first, but then things began to go wrong. Orders weren't issued, reinforcements weren't dispatched. Maps wouldn't access. Soon Huiddel was losing control of the entire battle, and his commanders were forced to take matters into their own hands.

The last thing Huiddel saw before he lapsed into unconciousness was the generic image and thanks- "Thank you for using the Imperial Subspace Network. Have a nice day."

* * *

While their commander fell into blackness, the fighting still raged on the streets. Suddenly, everything went silent- not the silence of inaction, because the fighting was still raging and bullets still flying. Shouts were silent, and there was no sound for several seconds. In a whole instant, there was a huge pop and a massive sonic boom, knocking everyone flat.

In the sky there appeared dozens of black-hulled ships, dotted with lights, emblazoned with the sunburst red-and-yellow of the Imperial Fleet. Black canisters shot to the ground, releasing Imperial Army soldiers. For a moment, the Altanari defenders reeled back, expecting to be overrun, but they didn't attack. Instead, they levelled their weapons at the Guardsmen, shouting orders.

Within a few moments, the fighting ceased.

* * *

Taar didn't flinch.

"How interesting, to be lectured on genocide!" he said, his composure returning. "Perhaps I have misjudged. Perhaps you are something more than a deciever. Perhaps you are a test."

He turned his head toward Aelkyn. "Your national gods are an interesting bunch. Where was it in your history that your noble families forgot their divine mandate to rule with justice?"

Taar didn't flinch.

"How interesting, to be lectured on genocide!" he said, his composure returning. "Perhaps I have misjudged. Perhaps you are something more than a deciever. Perhaps you are a test."

He turned his head toward Aelkyn. "Your national gods are an interesting bunch. Where was it in your history that your noble families forgot their divine mandate to rule with justice?"

He waved off the second light blade and resummoned the dark one. "I prefer the contrast, I think." He considered Taar's words. "More than a deceiver still means 'deceiver', y'know." He pouted. "At least if I a test, you may choose the method of administration. There's force," he said, gesturing with his weapons, "intellect, or..." he intoned, gliding across the floor slowly toward the General, "we could come to a mutually beneficial arrangement?"

At the Imperial Cottage, Saungvaan Soou Repab entered and bowed to Cianar and Melika.

"My lord and lady, Ambassador Kerikala has requested that you be transferred to the Altanari Embassy. The Emperor, though not wishing to lose his guests, has agreed. I apologize for the abruptness of it all, but Ambassador Kerikala just only came with the request. We will have your things sent out- there is a gravcar waiting."

Cianar and Melika looked startled. "Did Ambassador Kerikala say why he made this request? Has something happened back in Altanar?" Melika asked, alarmed, as the two of them began following their escorts to the gravcar.

While their commander fell into blackness, the fighting still raged on the streets. Suddenly, everything went silent- not the silence of inaction, because the fighting was still raging and bullets still flying. Shouts were silent, and there was no sound for several seconds. In a whole instant, there was a huge pop and a massive sonic boom, knocking everyone flat.

In the sky there appeared dozens of black-hulled ships, dotted with lights, emblazoned with the sunburst red-and-yellow of the Imperial Fleet. Black canisters shot to the ground, releasing Imperial Army soldiers. For a moment, the Altanari defenders reeled back, expecting to be overrun, but they didn't attack. Instead, they levelled their weapons at the Guardsmen, shouting orders.

Within a few moments, the fighting ceased.

As they began to get up off the ground, the Altanari soldiers and police looked bewildered, as if not knowing what to expect next from this insane day. Finally, one of their commanders handed his rifle to a subordinate and walked over to the first Imperial Army soldier he could reach. "I'd like to speak to your commanding officer, whoever that may be," he said hoarsely.

Taar didn't flinch.

"How interesting, to be lectured on genocide!" he said, his composure returning. "Perhaps I have misjudged. Perhaps you are something more than a deciever. Perhaps you are a test."

He turned his head toward Aelkyn. "Your national gods are an interesting bunch. Where was it in your history that your noble families forgot their divine mandate to rule with justice?"

Still seething, Aelkyn struggled to regain his control. "Our gods don't dictate to us how to run our nation, or our lives. They allow us to make mistakes and learn from them, and to grow as a result. The mandate we follow is a mandate of the people. And after recent events, I doubt we will choose to follow your lead as a moral exemplar."

He waved off the second light blade and resummoned the dark one. "I prefer the contrast, I think." He considered Taar's words. "More than a deceiver still means 'deceiver', y'know." He pouted. "At least if I a test, you may choose the method of administration. There's force," he said, gesturing with his weapons, "intellect, or..." he intoned, gliding across the floor slowly toward the General, "we could come to a mutually beneficial arrangement?"

At this remark, Aelkyn simply raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms over his chest and muttering a string of furious Altanari words under his breath.

Elsewhere in Altanar

As word sped over the Altanari media about the attack taking place on the capital, the rebels tried to take advantage of the chaos. Along the Akamian front lines, the ASDF abandoned their guerrila tactics and launched full-scale attacks along the entire front, trying to get the already weakened Akamian Command soldiers to crack.

Meanwhile, Lord Sarkas issued the following statement to the media from his command center in Po: "The attack on Ael Khalas shows the folly of Aelkyn's policies all too well. Embracing foreigners has left us wide-open to attack and exploitation, while his liberal feel-good policies have left our military and police underfunded and incapable of defending Altanar. It is even more plain now why this King is not fit to rule this great nation. While it would be ironic if an attack by foreigners caused the downfall and destruction of such a King, we still weep for those lost in Ael Khalas. We urge all Altanari to abandon their support for this King before he leads our nation to complete collapse and foreign domination."

Observers on the front line noticed that Sarkas' forces were repositioning themselves, shifting towards the border with Staria province.

Cianar and Melika looked startled. "Did Ambassador Kerikala say why he made this request? Has something happened back in Altanar?" Melika asked, alarmed, as the two of them began following their escorts to the gravcar.

Saungvaan frowned. "This is quite embarassing... but it seems that renegade Imperial forces, led by one of our generals, have beseiged Ael Khalas. WE have already dispatched forces to rein them in... the Ambassador was insistent that you be returned to Altanari custody."


As they began to get up off the ground, the Altanari soldiers and police looked bewildered, as if not knowing what to expect next from this insane day. Finally, one of their commanders handed his rifle to a subordinate and walked over to the first Imperial Army soldier he could reach. "I'd like to speak to your commanding officer, whoever that may be," he said hoarsely.

Aboard the capital battleship Rezan Saar, Lord Admiral Bezah Khim Turnukh surveyed the city. The Guard Legions had stood down, and the embassy was under control.

"Sir. A we have Altanari commanders wishing to speak with the commanding officer. Should you care to speak with them?"

Turnukh nodded. Although he wasn't the highest ranking official, the Emperor had given him control of the fleet... he had the sovereign's trust.

Turnukh blinked, and before him stood several bewildered Altanari officers, looking very confused. Turnukh rose from his chair, and saluted.

"I am Lord Admiral Bezah Khim Turnukh, commander of the Fleet Expeditionary Force, by order of His Most Excellent Imperial Majesty Allech-Atreus XVI. Welcome to the Reman Saar."

Still seething, Aelkyn struggled to regain his control. "Our gods don't dictate to us how to run our nation, or our lives. They allow us to make mistakes and learn from them, and to grow as a result. The mandate we follow is a mandate of the people. And after recent events, I doubt we will choose to follow your lead as a moral exemplar."

Taar laughed at Aelkyn and the mysterious boy.

"The people? He who builds on the people builds on mud." he pointed at the boy. "See how the spirit world sends it's representative! Not the foolish mass of man."

He straightened. "Aelkyn Aranathas, you will tell me where the Scion is. If you do not, your life is forfeit."

Saungvaan frowned. "This is quite embarassing... but it seems that renegade Imperial forces, led by one of our generals, have beseiged Ael Khalas. WE have already dispatched forces to rein them in... the Ambassador was insistent that you be returned to Altanari custody."

Melika paused for a moment. "Normally I'd be upset about that, but seeing as how we have renegade generals of our own causing problems, I can't really hold that against you."

Cianar stroked his chin thoughtfully. "It seems almost a bit rude to leave under these circumstances. I'll have to have a word with this ambassador of ours. I hope the Emperor did not take offense."

Aboard the capital battleship Rezan Saar, Lord Admiral Bezah Khim Turnukh surveyed the city. The Guard Legions had stood down, and the embassy was under control.

"Sir. A we have Altanari commanders wishing to speak with the commanding officer. Should you care to speak with them?"

Turnukh nodded. Although he wasn't the highest ranking official, the Emperor had given him control of the fleet... he had the sovereign's trust.

Turnukh blinked, and before him stood several bewildered Altanari officers, looking very confused. Turnukh rose from his chair, and saluted.

"I am Lord Admiral Bezah Khim Turnukh, commander of the Fleet Expeditionary Force, by order of His Most Excellent Imperial Majesty Allech-Atreus XVI. Welcome to the Reman Saar."

The commander that had originally approached the Imperial forces stepped forward and returned the salute. "I'm General Goran Beziketh, commander of the Royal Altanari Defense Forces, Ael Khalas Military District. Thank you for bringing us aboard. I assume you've been sent to help bring this general Taar's forces under control."

Taar laughed at Aelkyn and the mysterious boy.

"The people? He who builds on the people builds on mud." he pointed at the boy. "See how the spirit world sends it's representative! Not the foolish mass of man."

He straightened. "Aelkyn Aranathas, you will tell me where the Scion is. If you do not, your life is forfeit."

Aelkyn glared at Taar. "You speak to me as if I am a coward. I have said it once before, and I'll say it again. I will not help you, and I will not make my friend subject to your whims just to save my own neck. A King has to be prepared for many things - even death - in the service of his people. So be it. But I'd rather die knowing I did the right thing than live knowing I did the wrong one."

Taar laughed at Aelkyn and the mysterious boy.

"The people? He who builds on the people builds on mud." he pointed at the boy. "See how the spirit world sends it's representative! Not the foolish mass of man."

He straightened. "Aelkyn Aranathas, you will tell me where the Scion is. If you do not, your life is forfeit."

He laughed. "You misunderstand, General. It is from the people that even the Gods can derive power. Without the Lord Serph, I would not exist, after all." He smiled enigmatically. "I would not see His Majesty suffer further insult in his own home. It is disrespectful. And I would consider killing the Lord Aelkyn to be insulting. Now, for what purpose do you wish for this Scion?"

The boy turned to face the Altanari monarch. "I apologize for the confusion, Great Leader. My definition of 'mutually beneficial' is a bit more restrictive than some might think."

He laughed. "You misunderstand, General. It is from the people that even the Gods can derive power. Without the Lord Serph, I would not exist, after all." He smiled enigmatically. "I would not see His Majesty suffer further insult in his own home. It is disrespectful. And I would consider killing the Lord Aelkyn to be insulting. Now, for what purpose do you wish for this Scion?"

The boy turned to face the Altanari monarch. "I apologize for the confusion, Great Leader. My definition of 'mutually beneficial' is a bit more restrictive than some might think."

Aelkyn nodded. "I assumed as much. Forgive the angry words, I am just a bit annoyed at the moment. You do raise a good question, though....what exactly is your purpose for him?" the King said, turning back to Taar. "If you stop issuing threats and start explaining what you intend, I might be more inclined to help you."

Taar looked as if the King were an idiot.

"Return him to the ancient Temple of the Avatar, to show him his true calling. That is our goal."

* * *
Saungvan shook his head. "Disappointed that diplomacy dictates you must be turned over to your own people, not disappointed in your government. You have the distinction of being the first foreign sovereigns to pay a visit to the Imperial Throne in thousands of years- and His Majesty has been very keen on impressing you. There are those in the government who feel that you should make the obeisance to the Throne as befits that of the God-Emperor..."

He paused, looking embarassed. "... But His Majesty did not think that requiring such worship was becoming of a foreign sovereign, much less a nation he wishes greater relationships with. We try to meld tradition and modernity here."

* * *

Turnukh nodded grimly. "Yes, that is my charge. We understand that the General has barricaded himself with your King in the throne room with some of his guards. With your permission, we'd like to take him into our custody."

Taar looked as if the King were an idiot.

"Return him to the ancient Temple of the Avatar, to show him his true calling. That is our goal."

Aelkyn ignored the incredulous look. "If Jaris is willing to do so, I'll allow it. That will be his decision, though...not yours, or mine."

Saungvan shook his head. "Disappointed that diplomacy dictates you must be turned over to your own people, not disappointed in your government. You have the distinction of being the first foreign sovereigns to pay a visit to the Imperial Throne in thousands of years- and His Majesty has been very keen on impressing you. There are those in the government who feel that you should make the obeisance to the Throne as befits that of the God-Emperor..."

He paused, looking embarassed. "... But His Majesty did not think that requiring such worship was becoming of a foreign sovereign, much less a nation he wishes greater relationships with. We try to meld tradition and modernity here."

Melika nodded appreciatively. "That is what we try to do as well. And we desire greater relations as well. I am certain that we will not allow these unfortunate events to deter us from that goal. Please deliver our apologies to the Emperor, and our gratitude for his hospitality. We will not be returning to Altanar immediately, as things are even more unsettled now than before. Perhaps we can make up for our hasty departure later."

Turnukh nodded grimly. "Yes, that is my charge. We understand that the General has barricaded himself with your King in the throne room with some of his guards. With your permission, we'd like to take him into our custody."

General Beziketh nodded. "Of course. We will provide any assistance we can. Our major concern right now is to secure the King unharmed. If we can do that, then we can worry about the details of punishing Taar later."

Taar, still ignoring the boy, took a step closer to the King.

"By the gods, I did not think that such a heathen would show reason. My men have taken control of your city- you will tell me where Krytellin is and we will return your capital."

* * *

Saungvan bowed lightly, and gestured for them to follow.

"Thank you. Allow me." He took them through the sumptuous cottage, down a flight of stairs, and into a room of polished steel and low lighting. what looked like a set of subway cars was waiting, red satin curtains and wood trim were visible through the windows.

"This will take you directly to Embassy Building. I will not accompany you personally, but this gentleman-" he gestured to a black-uniformed man who saluted and bowed-" will show you into Altanari hands. I regret the unfortunate circumstances, again, but I hope the use of the Emperor's gravcar will make your departure more comfortable than your arrival."

The door slid open, and a man in white and tails bowed at the waist. "Your majesties, if you please."

The car was edged in satin and the wood trim embellished with gold and handpainting, exquisite handiwork concealing the raw technology inside the car. The valet drew the curtains and soft violin music piped- Mozart, to the discerning ear. The car began moving imperceptibly- someone used to the harsh subway cars and trains of other countries wouldn't have even felt it.

The valet walked crisply to the two sovereigns, directing them to leather and velvet stuffed furniture. Their bodyguard, a Captain in the Imperial Guard, stood by the door.

"Your majesties, the ride will be just about thirty minutes. Would you care for anything to drink?"

* * *

Turnukh saluted and turned to his liutenant. "I'm guessing Adhirilan doesn't realize that we've arrived. Let's keep it that way. I want three squads of commando units to set up position around the throne room. The Sunfury Honorguard are still inside the Aerie- about 30 or so, and they won't give up without a fight. We can't risk them harming the King. General Beziketh, can you lend us some men to assist our commandoes?"

Taar, still ignoring the boy, took a step closer to the King.

"By the gods, I did not think that such a heathen would show reason. My men have taken control of your city- you will tell me where Krytellin is and we will return your capital."

"You didn't think at all, General," Aelkyn snapped. "You could have just asked us to let Jaris accompany you, without all this violence." The King steepled his hands in front of his face, making a visible effort to calm down. "Jaris would have moved to a secure location per our protocols in the event of an attack on the capital. I will need to re-establish contact with our command center to determine his location now."

Saungvan bowed lightly, and gestured for them to follow.

"Thank you. Allow me." He took them through the sumptuous cottage, down a flight of stairs, and into a room of polished steel and low lighting. what looked like a set of subway cars was waiting, red satin curtains and wood trim were visible through the windows.

"This will take you directly to Embassy Building. I will not accompany you personally, but this gentleman-" he gestured to a black-uniformed man who saluted and bowed-" will show you into Altanari hands. I regret the unfortunate circumstances, again, but I hope the use of the Emperor's gravcar will make your departure more comfortable than your arrival."

The door slid open, and a man in white and tails bowed at the waist. "Your majesties, if you please."

The car was edged in satin and the wood trim embellished with gold and handpainting, exquisite handiwork concealing the raw technology inside the car. The valet drew the curtains and soft violin music piped- Mozart, to the discerning ear. The car began moving imperceptibly- someone used to the harsh subway cars and trains of other countries wouldn't have even felt it.

The valet walked crisply to the two sovereigns, directing them to leather and velvet stuffed furniture. Their bodyguard, a Captain in the Imperial Guard, stood by the door.

"Your majesties, the ride will be just about thirty minutes. Would you care for anything to drink?"

"I'll just have water, thank you," Melika said, settling into one of the large chairs. "As much as I'd like something stronger after this day, having a baby at the moment doesn't allow it."

Cianar sat down also, grinning. "I'm glad I don't have that limitation. A glass of wine would be most appreciated." The old man's face turned serious. "Can someone let the embassy know that we are coming? I have a few words for our ambassador once we get there."

Turnukh saluted and turned to his liutenant. "I'm guessing Adhirilan doesn't realize that we've arrived. Let's keep it that way. I want three squads of commando units to set up position around the throne room. The Sunfury Honorguard are still inside the Aerie- about 30 or so, and they won't give up without a fight. We can't risk them harming the King. General Beziketh, can you lend us some men to assist our commandoes?"

General Beziketh nodded. "We have a unit of Royal Guards in position near the throne room, and several other units on the grounds. We can provide a layout of the palace as well if it's needed."

"You didn't think at all, General," Aelkyn snapped. "You could have just asked us to let Jaris accompany you, without all this violence." The King steepled his hands in front of his face, making a visible effort to calm down. "Jaris would have moved to a secure location per our protocols in the event of an attack on the capital. I will need to re-establish contact with our command center to determine his location now."


Taar didn't nod or otherwise acknowledge the King's speaking. The boy was still silent, staring at the General. The few Honorguard that were left still had their weapons trained either on the King or the boy. One, who appeared to be higher-ranking, spoke.

"My Lord General! If I have the location of the Scion I can use the dimensional gate."

Taar nodded. "You don't know where Krytellin is?" he asked the King.


"I'll just have water, thank you," Melika said, settling into one of the large chairs. "As much as I'd like something stronger after this day, having a baby at the moment doesn't allow it."

Cianar sat down also, grinning. "I'm glad I don't have that limitation. A glass of wine would be most appreciated." The old man's face turned serious. "Can someone let the embassy know that we are coming? I have a few words for our ambassador once we get there."

The valet bowed. "Yes, your majesties." He snapped his fingers at a waiting server, who turned out the door and disappeared.

"The Ambassador has been informed that you will be arriving, but for security reasons we cannot tell him by what means." the valet continued. "This tube is a sta-"

He was cut off as the tube suddenly lurched to a halt, pitching the valet and the Captain forward.

Jumping to their feet, they spoke rapidly to each other in native Vepazanii.

"<The hell?>"

"<Captain- stay with the foreigners. I'll find out what's going on.>"

The Captain, unthinking, saluted the valet, who walked quickly to the end of the compartment. Turning to Cianar and Melika, he shook his head.

"I'm sorry, we'll have this figured out. We aren't moving anymore, the Lord General will find out what's going on."

General Beziketh nodded. "We have a unit of Royal Guards in position near the throne room, and several other units on the grounds. We can provide a layout of the palace as well if it's needed."

Turnukh snapped and an officer walked over. "That would help. Electronic? We can upload the layout into our commando's neural nets. Our men will be on the ground in thirty seconds- contact your men and we'll rendezvous."

Another officer walked up, saluted, and started speaking in their native language.

"<My Lord Admiral. The commander is asking about the security on the ground.>"

The Admiral frowned. "<It's not secure yet... but if he wishes I will move our men into position. Convey my opposition on his move, if he still desires it.>"

The liutenant saluted, turned on his heels, and walked away. Turning back, he looked the Beziketh square in the eye.

"General, if you're ready."

Taar didn't nod or otherwise acknowledge the King's speaking. The boy was still silent, staring at the General. The few Honorguard that were left still had their weapons trained either on the King or the boy. One, who appeared to be higher-ranking, spoke.

"My Lord General! If I have the location of the Scion I can use the dimensional gate."

Taar nodded. "You don't know where Krytellin is?" he asked the King.

"We would have moved him for security purposes. If I can communicate with the command center, I can find out if he is willing to come here. That's the only way you're going to find him - unless you cooperate with me, we can hide him throughout Altanar if need be. And, as I am sure you know, we've already contacted your government, so you don't have that kind of time," Aelkyn said coldly. "And if you're thinking of harming me, that would be ill-advised, because once that happens, no one in Altanar will even think of helping you. You'll never find him if that happens, no matter what you do. If you're smart, you'll let me communicate with my people so that Jaris can be brought here. You're running out of options, General - it's time to start working with us, instead of against us," the King finished.

The valet bowed. "Yes, your majesties." He snapped his fingers at a waiting server, who turned out the door and disappeared.

"The Ambassador has been informed that you will be arriving, but for security reasons we cannot tell him by what means." the valet continued. "This tube is a sta-"

He was cut off as the tube suddenly lurched to a halt, pitching the valet and the Captain forward.

Jumping to their feet, they spoke rapidly to each other in native Vepazanii.

"<The hell?>"

"<Captain- stay with the foreigners. I'll find out what's going on.>"

The Captain, unthinking, saluted the valet, who walked quickly to the end of the compartment. Turning to Cianar and Melika, he shook his head.

"I'm sorry, we'll have this figured out. We aren't moving anymore, the Lord General will find out what's going on."

Melika and Cianar exchanged a glance, and then Cianar simply nodded in response to the captain.

Turnukh snapped and an officer walked over. "That would help. Electronic? We can upload the layout into our commando's neural nets. Our men will be on the ground in thirty seconds- contact your men and we'll rendezvous."

Another officer walked up, saluted, and started speaking in their native language.

"<My Lord Admiral. The commander is asking about the security on the ground.>"

The Admiral frowned. "<It's not secure yet... but if he wishes I will move our men into position. Convey my opposition on his move, if he still desires it.>"

The liutenant saluted, turned on his heels, and walked away. Turning back, he looked the Beziketh square in the eye.

"General, if you're ready."

"We are in position and will upload the Aerie layout to your forces on the ground. We're ready," Beziketh replied.

"We would have moved him for security purposes. If I can communicate with the command center, I can find out if he is willing to come here. That's the only way you're going to find him - unless you cooperate with me, we can hide him throughout Altanar if need be. And, as I am sure you know, we've already contacted your government, so you don't have that kind of time," Aelkyn said coldly. "And if you're thinking of harming me, that would be ill-advised, because once that happens, no one in Altanar will even think of helping you. You'll never find him if that happens, no matter what you do. If you're smart, you'll let me communicate with my people so that Jaris can be brought here. You're running out of options, General - it's time to start working with us, instead of against us," the King finished.

The General looked at the King for a few moments, the look on his face stony and unmoving. He raised his hand in the air, signalled his men who then took up defensive positions, covering the boy.

"We will move out. You will find out where Krytellin is. But I will tell you- your death is of absolutely no consequence. There are a great number of people in your country who would be glad to see you dead, and I daresay they would jump at news of it. Keep that on your mind."


Melika and Cianar exchanged a glance, and then Cianar simply nodded in response to the captain.

The valet reentered the car, but this time he was not alone. With him were two men in long, red-trimmed black robes, high curled hats covering their black hair. They both looked quite serious, and their hands were hidden in their sleeves.

"Your highness..." the valet started to say to Cianar, when he was cut off. One of the men spoke.

"Cianar Aranathas. It is a pleasure to meet you. We have much to discuss."

"We are in position and will upload the Aerie layout to your forces on the ground. We're ready," Beziketh replied.

On the ground around the Aerie gates, Imperial commandoes and Royal Guard units assembled, setting up for the action. Honorguard forces were still in the Aerie, and apparently so was Inquisitor Velren Darak, wounded in the attack. Hunt Captain Kakaar stepped away from his squad and saluted the Altanari forces.

"Who's your officer? Hunt Captain Kakaar, 5th Fleet Commandoes. We're ready to liberate your king."

The General looked at the King for a few moments, the look on his face stony and unmoving. He raised his hand in the air, signalled his men who then took up defensive positions, covering the boy.

"We will move out. You will find out where Krytellin is. But I will tell you- your death is of absolutely no consequence. There are a great number of people in your country who would be glad to see you dead, and I daresay they would jump at news of it. Keep that on your mind."

"Very well....lead the way then," Aelkyn said ironically, gesturing for Taar to proceed.

The valet reentered the car, but this time he was not alone. With him were two men in long, red-trimmed black robes, high curled hats covering their black hair. They both looked quite serious, and their hands were hidden in their sleeves.

"Your highness..." the valet started to say to Cianar, when he was cut off. One of the men spoke.

"Cianar Aranathas. It is a pleasure to meet you. We have much to discuss."

Cianar and Melika remained still, not moving from their chairs. "Oh? And who might you be?" Cianar said calmly, not losing his regal demeanor despite the circumstances.

On the ground around the Aerie gates, Imperial commandoes and Royal Guard units assembled, setting up for the action. Honorguard forces were still in the Aerie, and apparently so was Inquisitor Velren Darak, wounded in the attack. Hunt Captain Kakaar stepped away from his squad and saluted the Altanari forces.

"Who's your officer? Hunt Captain Kakaar, 5th Fleet Commandoes. We're ready to liberate your king."

One of the Altanari officers, dressed in the black battle uniform of the Royal Guards, stepped forward and returned the salute. "Commander Melrek Kantar, Royal Guards 1st Brigade. We're ready when you are, Captain," he said.

OOC: Hey Alt, any chance you'd like to resurrect this, what with your PM election coming up?

OOC: Yeah, I'd be up for it. I only killed it because I thought you were going away for a while. :p

"Very well....lead the way then," Aelkyn said ironically, gesturing for Taar to proceed.

Taar gestured to his men, who formed a loose group around the King and their general. Moving toward one of the doors, the remaining honorguards kept low and scanned, ready for an attack. Taar, on the other hand, tried to keep his regal bearing... but Aelkyn would notice the wrinkles around his eyes deepening.

Cianar and Melika remained still, not moving from their chairs. "Oh? And who might you be?" Cianar said calmly, not losing his regal demeanor despite the circumstances.

One of the black-robed men stepped forward, and sat down across from the two royals. Smiling, he removed his hat, letting long black hair fall.

"I am Kshayavang, mystic of the golden shrine. We must discuss things of a more spiritual nature, regarding the future of your son's rule..." he dropped his gaze slowly to the queen's pregnant stomach...

"And that of your grandchild. I should speak to you privately... the General will look after your daughter-in-law."


One of the Altanari officers, dressed in the black battle uniform of the Royal Guards, stepped forward and returned the salute. "Commander Melrek Kantar, Royal Guards 1st Brigade. We're ready when you are, Captain," he said.

Kakaar nodded, and pressed a button on his wristpad. He seemed to blink in and out of existence as his active camoflage came on, but to the other soldiers he was vaguely visible. The other commandos did the same.

"Alright, we've got the uplink of the area, and a vague idea of where the general is. There are still Honorguard in the area... we are to use nonlethal if at all possible. Commander Kantar, get your men into position around those doors and prepare to breach them!"

Taar gestured to his men, who formed a loose group around the King and their general. Moving toward one of the doors, the remaining honorguards kept low and scanned, ready for an attack. Taar, on the other hand, tried to keep his regal bearing... but Aelkyn would notice the wrinkles around his eyes deepening.

Aelkyn noticed the change in Taar's expression, but gave no visible sign as he moved with the group towards the Aerie's main communications center.

One of the black-robed men stepped forward, and sat down across from the two royals. Smiling, he removed his hat, letting long black hair fall.

"I am Kshayavang, mystic of the golden shrine. We must discuss things of a more spiritual nature, regarding the future of your son's rule..." he dropped his gaze slowly to the queen's pregnant stomach...

"And that of your grandchild. I should speak to you privately... the General will look after your daughter-in-law."

Cianar frowned. "As interested as I am in what you have to say, my daughter-in-law shall not leave my side, as long as I am the only Altanari here to protect her and her child. She is also Queen of Altanar, and the wife of my son, as well as bearer of the heir to our throne...anything that needs to be said to me can be said to her."

Kakaar nodded, and pressed a button on his wristpad. He seemed to blink in and out of existence as his active camoflage came on, but to the other soldiers he was vaguely visible. The other commandos did the same.

"Alright, we've got the uplink of the area, and a vague idea of where the general is. There are still Honorguard in the area... we are to use nonlethal if at all possible. Commander Kantar, get your men into position around those doors and prepare to breach them!"

Kantar nodded, and made some quick hand gestures to his men. Acknowledging the Altanari battle language with gestures of their own, the Royal Guards flanked the doors to the throne room and quickly readied a set of explosives capable of breaching the door.

The demolitions officer who had set up the explosives, finally done, gestured for everyone to stand clear. He moved to a safe distance, and readied the handheld detonator. With his other hand, he began counting down silently to the Guards soldiers. At zero, he pressed a button on the detonator. With a resounding crash, the large golden doors leading into the Royal Quarters tumbled to the ground. The Guards units quickly assumed their positions, waiting to see what awaited them on the other side.