[Lauchenoiria]

Kerlile had, for decades, been attempting to create a functioning Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM). So far, they have failed. They’d managed a Short-Range Ballistic Missile, but that really only helped them in wars with Lauchenoiria, Greater Acadia, Kvask, Zongongia, Comhar or - if the winds were right - maybe Bears Armed. Maybe. Kerlile had far more enemies than just their neighbours. In fact, everyone was an enemy except perhaps Xiomera and Huenya, ironically given how the two felt about each other.

Of course, if the Kerlians admitted it to themselves, even their short-range missiles weren’t up to scratch. The Matriarchy suffered from a lack of materials, and a lack of suitable scientific education given how much foreign textbooks were censored before they were allowed into the universities. Things had started to change on the latter front, recently, but they still had a lot of catching up to do in their weapon development.

So it was a clear morning when the Missile Development Force of Kerlile began preparations for their latest test. They would shoot one of their newly developed, and hopefully more reliable, missiles into the great lake they shared with Kvask and Greater Acadia. Their own side of the lake, of course. They certainly didn’t want to start a war when their military was ill-equipped and sanctions still meant food rationing was in force.

The test began as expected. They set up the missile launcher and the warhead-less missile. They checked their calculations. They sent up their camera drones to film the test for later analysis. They all nodded to each other. And then they launched the missile.

Something went wrong. At the time, nobody was quite sure what it was: it would take time and analysis to work it out. But what they did know, right from the outset, was that the missile was not sticking to its projected course. The women of the Missile Development Force watched in horror as their test missile curved away from their end of the lake, up towards the horizon, and down, down, down in the direction of Greater Acadia.

“Oh shit.”

[Greater Acadia]

"Alright, what have we got?"

Prime Minister Timothy Gargant drew the gazes of every man and woman seated at the long table in the conference room commandeered for this emergency meeting. Unbuttoning the front of his suit jacket, the 52-year-old took a seat at the head of the table. A number of officials had also taken their seats, with most chairs at the table having already been filled. It took all of two seconds between the Prime Minister sitting down before General Aaron Davis leaned forward in his seat, resting his elbows on the table and lacing his fingers together. The African-Acadian man fixed Gargant with a neutral gaze, all-in-all maintaining the image of a decorated, professional military officer.

"Sir, at 1400hrs local time, one of our ground-based radar stations picked up the launch of a Ballistic Missile over Lake Wallace." Began the General. "Using telemetry data, we determined the missile's launch point to be from Kerlile's northern coastline. The missile continued to be tracked by both our ground-based radar stations and AWACS assets tracked the missile as it crossed into our EEZ and landed just six kilometres south of our coastline."

"Any chance of the missile being armed?" Was Gargant's immediate question, his expression going grave the longer the General spoke.

Davis shook his head. "If it was, it was a dud. Which fits our intelligence that Kerlile's missile development program hasn't been progressing particularly well. That said, I've already ordered that crews be dispatched to ascertain the level of risk and dispose of any warheads it may have carried on board."

"Right." The Prime Minister nodded his head in thanks to the general before casting his gaze to the table at large. "Now, do we know why this missile landed in our waters?"

It was Christine Belle, Director of the Bureau of Foreign Affairs who spoke next, sitting back in her seat, arms crossed. "Relations between us and Kerlile have been deteriorating recently. More so than they have already. They're not happy that we're party to the more recent round sanctions against them. Diplomatically, they've cut us off."

"So you think this could be a provocation?" Gargant prompted, to which Belle nodded.

"Potentially." She said. "They've made it clear in no uncertain terms that we are one of their nuclear development program's potential targets. They may be trying to intimidate us into relaxing sanctions."

It was here that General Davis chose to intercede. "To be entirely fair, we don't yet know why the missile actually came down on our side of the lake. We can only speculate at this time, sir. If we can recover the missile, that may shed some light as to what happened."

"At the same time, General, we can't deny that relations with the Matriarchy are tense." Bell added, though she was clearly addressing the Prime Minister more than her military counterpart. "We should, at the very least, be on the look out for other incidents."

"Yet at the same time, we can't risk provoking Kerlile into further aggression." Gargant finished for the both of them, crossing his arms and staring gravely down at the polished mahogany table in front of him. Of course something like this would happen when things between Acadia and Xiomera were heating up. Not only would he need to worry about happening half a world away, but now things happening in Acadia's backyard.

With a deep breath out through his nose, he straightened in his seat, turning his gaze towards Davis. "General, see what you can do about recovering that missile. In the meantime, do what you can to tighten security along the Wallace Coast. Monitor for any incursions, but make sure to keep our assets on our side of the lake."

The General nodded once. "Of course, sir. Combat Air Patrols and ABM defences will be up within the hour."

With that, The Prime Minister turned to Director Belle. "In the meantime, see if you can get in contact with anyone on Kerlile's side. We need to figure out what the hell happened here, hopefully without escalating to all-out war."

"Understood, sir. I'll do what I can." Belle replied, mirroring the General's earlier nod.

As the meeting drew to a close and the members of the room left to attend to their own issues, Gargant pinched the bridge of his nose. He could feel a headache coming on. Something he really didn't need when he would be addressing the public about this in the next hour or so.

He really needed a vacation.

[Lauchenoiria]

Commander Tiena Aranwe of the Kerlian Missile Development Force stood to attention in the Council Chamber where she had been summoned, having just finished giving her report on the incident. She did not allow herself to feel afraid. If the Council decided to arrest her, or kill her, that was their prerogative. Commander Aranwe was a true believer.

“We must mobilise our forces immediately,” Nirmala Patel was saying. “Greater Acadia has just been given a motivation and an excuse to invade us. We all know that the patriarchal countries have wanted to do so for years, they just lacked a suitable casus belli. If we can get our troops to the border fast enough, perhaps it will deter them. After all, our shared land border is tiny and mountainous.”

“Many of our forces are still gathered on the other side of the country near Kvask and Lauchenoiria,” countered Pauline Pierre. “It would take too long.”

“We need to contact Greater Acadia, get ahead of this,” President Rebecca Arnott, sitting at the top of the table, said. “It’s not too late to find a diplomatic solution.”

Several of the Women’s Party Councillors rolled their eyes. A nice little war would be just the thing to take people’s minds off of the rollback of reform they were planning. But until they could do something about their Reformist president, they would have to hold their tongues. Nobody wanted another civil war. A foreign war, though…

“Do you really think they’ll believe us?” Councillor Letitia Greenwood scoffed. “Since when have members of patriarchal governments trusted a word that comes out of our mouths?”

“To be fair to them, we’re usually lying,” Councillor Hale smirked from where she sat in the corner, her three year old daughter on her lap. Amelia Hale was destroying a piece of paper with several crayons on the table in front of her. Hale had taken to bringing Amelia to meetings, though not one of the other Councillors could understand why.

“It doesn’t matter if they believe us,” President Arnott said. “We have to try. We will NOT make aggressive moves unless we know we have to. So hold off on ordering troop movements just yet. And Commander Aranwe, please return to your duties. Thank you.”

Aranwe internally breathed a sigh of relief, even as her brain questioned the decision by the reformer to allow a failure such as herself to live. She performed the correct ritual gestures, and then departed the Council Chamber. She hoped that diplomacy would work. She did not know of the games being played by the traditionalists she supported. All she knew was that if it came to war, Kerlile would be fighting a 21st century power with 20th century technology. And her own division would be entirely useless.

[Greater Acadia]

The next few days were hectic to say the least. Most of what Prime Minister Gargant was doing damage-control between the Acadian Government and the Media. People had heard about the incident with a Kerlian Missile, and were rightly concerned about what the government was doing to address the issue. Most of that was simply assuring that the military was monitoring the situation. And dealing with the war-hawks in parliament who were demanding a proportionate response. He and his coalition government had to tell them in no uncertain terms that the situation was still developing. They hadn't yet determined the reason that missile had crashed into Acadia's side of Wallace Lake. Salvage teams had yet to locate it's final resting place.

So it was with some measure of relief when Director Belle's efforts came through in spades. Through her contacts and back-channels with the Kerlian Government, she'd managed to secure a phone call with President Rebecca Arnott of Kerlile. According to Belle, she figured that the ease of setting this up meant that Kerlile wanted to talk. That gave Gargant some hope that this was all just an accident and misunderstanding, and that this issue could be resolved without much fuss. At the least, he might be able to broker an agreement where Kerlile would notify Acadia of missile tests in the future. Hopefully to keep such issues from cropping up again.

Though, to be entirely fair, you couldn't be too sure with the rather enigmatic Kerlile.

It's with that final thought that he sat down at his desk in the Prime Minister's Office. His office phone sat to his right, within easy reach. Director Belle stood on the opposite side of the desk, fiddling with the pen in her hand as the seconds ticked by. He simply watched his office phone for any signs of life.

Suddenly, Belle reached into her jacket and pulled out her cellphone. She read what was on the screen before turning her attention to the Prime Minister.

"Phone lines are live. We're ready to begin in a few seconds." She reported.

Sure enough, only a scant few seconds later, the light on the phone blinked. He picked it up, pressed the flashing button, and waited for the other line to pick up. Once her heard someone on the other side pick up, he began:

"President Arnott? This is Prime Minister Gargant of Greater Acadia. Pleasure to be speaking to you. I'm hoping we can resolve this little incident peacefully..."

[Lauchenoiria]

"As am I, Prime Minister," Rebecca Arnott replied. "We regret that this happened of course, but we wish to reassure you that it was unintentional. During a routine test, we discovered an error in launching systems which caused the missile to go off course. The possibilities of such errors are, of course, why we perform tests in the first place."

She was sitting in her office in the building of the Council Chambers, with a couple of her trusted aides taking notes. She hadn't allowed any of the Councillors to join her, given the warmongering several of them seemed to enjoy.

Unbeknownst to her, the anti-reform Councillors had been busy while she scrambled to attempt diplomacy. Those who would have undone every piece of progress of the last several years, and returned to the days of totalitarian terror, had every reason to undermine the reformist President. Over on the other side of the country, the traditionalists had been at work, preparing to sabotage the President's attempts at peace. And as Arnott spoke on the phone, they began giving orders they had no right to give.

[Greater Acadia]

"That's somewhat relieving to hear, Madam President." Timothy Gargant replied. "That being said, I would have to request that you notify us of such tests in the future. Hopefully we can keep incidents like this from causing panic again."

It was then that General Davis walked in, his expression grave.

"One moment please, Madam President." The Prime Minister said, before he covered the mouth-piece and turned towards the General.

Davis leaned in, speaking in hushed tones. "Sir, our intelligence assets have picked up a large movement of Kerlian Forces towards the border. We've also seen the clearing of spaces for field-hospitals and supply depots going up. This doesn't seem like a precautionary measure on their end."

"You think it could be a buildup to an invasion?" Gargant asked, keeping his voice equally low.

"It's definitely a build up to something, sir." Davis replied. "I wouldn't discount it."

Inwardly, Gargant cursed himself. How many times in the past had Kerlile pulled a stunt similar to this. Say on thing and yet act in a completely opposite manner. Steeling himself, he removed his hand from the receiver and addressed the Kerlian President.

"President Arnott. I've just received notice that your forces seem to be building up at our border. Well beyond what would be necessary to maintain security at the border." He stated calmly. "Would you care to explain what you're doing?"

[Lauchenoiria]

Arnott was confused. "You must have mistaken our usual border guards for something else. I understand, what with tensions being high, but I have given no orders to move troops, and I assure you we do not intend to take any hostile action."

What President Arnott failed to realise, was that she could not speak for the rest of her country. Troops were indeed moving towards Greater Acadia, just not on her orders. While an individual Councillor of Kerlile could not legally give orders to the military, nobody in the military was foolish enough to disobey a Councillor. The only thing that had kept individual Councillors from doing things like this in the past, was an honour system. And that was falling to pieces before the eyes of the world.

[Greater Acadia]

"Really, Madam President? Then why is General Davis telling me that our intelligence assets are tracking the buildup of supply depots and field hospitals?" The Prime Minister countered. He opened the manila folder that the General had placed in front of him. He could see the images showing the construction of the aforementioned depots and hospitals. As well as the buildup of a surprising number to tanks and armored vehicles behind Kerlile's border mountains.

"Unless this is somehow the standard Kerlian border guards, which I doubt considering we only learned about this today, then either you're lying to me, or you've suffered a critical breakdown in your chain of command." He continued. "I assure you that Acadia is more than willing to come to reasonable terms on this issue. We have no desire to provoke Kerlile. But that, of course, is predicated upon you intending the same."

[Lauchenoiria]

Field hospitals? Arnott thought to herself, as a loud commotion outside her office began. It sounded like people were shouting at each other, and she gestured for one of her aides to go and see what was the matter. Before she could, however, Jennifer Hale burst in the door holding up a bit of paper that read, in all-caps, "PATEL IS TRYING TO START A WAR." And suddenly Arnott understood that Gargant was neither confused, nor lying.

"Prime Minister, I'm very sorry, but there are some things here I'm going to have to deal with right away. I'll, uh... call you back."

She hung up the phone and let out a long hiss. "Let me guess, she went behind my back to order troops to the Acadian border?"

"I'm afraid so," Hale replied. "Are we looking at a war with Greater Acadia, a civil war, or both?"

"I don't... I don't know," Arnott said. "We need a Full Council meeting. I'll call one. Oh, and Jennifer? Don't bring the kid. And you might want to be armed at it. Just in case."

Jennifer Hale swallowed, nodding, and left.

[Greater Acadia]

When the line went dead, Timothy Gargant hung up the phone. Sighing, he wiped his face with his hand, taking a moment to collect himself. One of two things just happened. Either someone within Kerlile's government was making a power-play and trying to start a war, which Rebecca Arnott was moving to deal with. Or she'd just be caught out in a lie and was trying to save face. Personally, the he couldn't understand why she'd go through the trouble of setting up a meeting if she was just going to move troops at the same time. If it happened only a few days later, then maybe he could understand it.

Either way, it almost didn't matter. He had to prioritize the security of Greater Acadia and her citizens.

"General Davis." He said, turning to the General in question, who stiffened slightly in response. "How soon can we get troops to the border?"

"Fourth Corps is ready to deploy sir. I can have them in position by tomorrow morning." Came Davis' smart reply. "Naval and Air assets are also in position to counter any incursions for Kerlile."

"Good, have them dig in and defend for now. If Kerlile tries anything, I want their forces under our guns the minute they cross the border." Gargant ordered.

"Understood, sir." The General acknowledged, before saluting and leaving the room. He glanced toward Director Belle, only to find her returning the grim look he knew was on his own face.

Things had just gotten a lot more complicated.

[Lauchenoiria]

Council Chambers, Grapevale, Kerlile
Sunday 9th April 2023, 6:00am

Jennifer Hale had not come armed, as advised. She had, however, worn a bulletproof vest. One could never be too careful, even if one was unwilling to carry a gun to a work meeting at a ridiculously early hour on Easter Sunday. Not that Kerlians celebrated Easter; three years ago, Christianity had been banned. Still, upon arrival, Councillor Hale kept an eagle eye on the opposition, never once turning her back to them.

The rest of the gathered Councillors were doing the same. The young Rosemary Arnott, yawning, and fellow reformist Electra Georgiou, who was dressed for the beach and irritated at her vacation being cut short, sat alongside Hale, staring across the table at the members of the Women’s Party.

On the other side of the table sat Nirmala Patel, with a sword belt of all things around her waist. She was always one for drama. Next to her, Letitia Greenwood and Lucia Viallamando sat glaring at the Reformists. Neither was visibly armed, but their clothes had plenty of places to conceal something.

At the bottom of the U-shaped table, opposite the separate President’s seat, the swing voters sat. Pauline Pierre, who until recently had been a fanatic Women’s Party member, with her post-Aurora change of heart. Natalia Hart, the unofficial representative of the Church of the Goddess, who invariably voted along religious lines (which could favour either side, depending on the issue).

Lia Chiu, the current chair of the Council as the longest-serving member, sat aside the President. She still had a vote, however, and it went to the Women’s Party more often than not. Still, the room looked fairly equal to begin with. Perhaps that was why nobody had yet made any violent moves. Everyone would at least fake civility for a few hours longer. At least, everyone hoped.

“Let us begin,” President Arnott said after a period of tense silence. “Firstly, I have contacted the commanding officers of all branches of our military, and instructed them to ignore any orders from any of you. I did not want to do this, but it is necessary. I have not, however, ordered the troops that you,” she glared over at the Women’s Party side of the table, “have sent to the Acadian border to retreat. They are, after all, building up their own troops there now. So, unless I want to invite a patriarchal invasion, my hands are tied. But that is what you wanted, isn’t it?”

Patel opened her mouth to speak, but Arnott held up a hand to silence her. “I am not finished. You have disobeyed my direct order. You have violated the laws of this country. And you have attempted to provoke a war with a nuclear power. This is not a border skirmish with pacifistic Lauchenoiria. I understand that you want power returned to your faction, but you have risked the lives of each and every Kerlian. How can you claim to stand up for this country and yet behave in such a reckless manner?”

“President Arnott,” Nirmala Patel replied, staring down the other woman. “We do not wish to start a war with Greater Acadia. We merely wish this country to have adequate defences should the patriarchal nations decide to fulfil their long-held dream of invasion. You would take no measures to protect the women of the Matriarchy, out of fear, and so we took matters into our own hands. You are not fit to lead this country.”

“You’re out of line, Patel,” Arnott growled.

“No, I rather think I am within it. You, on the other hand, have become a puppet of the patriarchal democracies. That, Madam President is outside our lines. The resignation of Joanna Greenwood was a great injustice forced upon her by Lauchenoiria and Sanctaria. If you wish to reform something,” Patel gestured to the three women opposite her, “reform succession laws to allow Greenwood to return to her rightful place.”

“So that’s your end goal,” Hale replied. “The return of Greenwood. Well, as you pointed out, that is not how our laws work. Joanna Greenwood resigned of her own free will. Or do you think Lauchenoiria has some kind of brainwashing potion?”

“Very possibly,” smirked Letitia Greenwood, Joanna’s daughter. “After all, it is the most logical explanation for the existence of you.”

“Order!” shouted Chiu. “This is getting off-topic. I suggest we return to the situation at our border with Greater Acadia.”

“Lia, this is very pertinent to that topic,” Patel smirked. “After all, if you wish the situation to be resolved, there is a simple answer: President Arnott must resign.”

“I have already countermanded your orders, Patel,” Arnott folded her arms. “You have little else to threaten me with. I will resolve this with Greater Acadia, whether you wish me to or not.”

“Will you? Do you really think the military will listen to you?”

“The laws of Kerlile…”

“Are interpreted by this Council. We could remove you from power. It would not be the first time someone attempted such a move. And we all know how that ended for those who would destroy what we have worked to build.”

“Are you threatening us, Nirmala?” Hale asked, eyes narrowed.

“I suggest you remain silent, Jennifer,” Letitia replied. “Go back to your house, play with your daughter, and wait for July. If you make no moves against us, we’ll let you go run off to join your little Prime Minister. Should you challenge us, you will meet the same fate as President Arnott here.”

“I am still alive, Councillor Greenwood, and I do not intend to allow you to change that fact,” President Arnott growled, her hand going to where she had concealed a gun.

Very quickly the room shifted, with Letitia and Rebecca pointing weapons at each other. In the meantime, Viallamando had Hale in the sights of her own weapon, while Nirmala Patel had crossed around the table to point her fancy sword at Rosemary Arnott, the President’s daughter. Georgiou, Pierre, and Hart all looked at each other, neither pointing weapons nor being pointed at. There was silence for a few moments before Hart decided to speak.

“This is not what the Goddess would want,” she began, leading to slight groans from both Pierre and Georgiou. The others were too focused. “How dare both of your factions threaten all we have built like this? Was one civil war not enough? We watched Lauchenoiria in 2018, do we want that here? Do we want the consequences? How dare you threaten the country you swore to protect with your chaos! PUT THE GUNS DOWN!”

Something about her voice led the others to slowly lower their weapons. Hart stood up. “Now, I realise this is not my place, but since those who should be responsible for keeping order in this chamber,” she glared at Chiu, “have neglected their duties, I will take it upon myself to end this. You, Patel, have insisted that the majority of women in Kerlile are against these reforms, have you not?”

“Yes, they are clearly catering to a small minority of women who have fallen into weak patterns of thinking that are encouraged by the patriarchal countries. It will only get worse the longer we allow foreign media, until the Matriarchy is destroyed.”

“And you, Arnott,” Hart turned to the President. “You maintain that our system of government is broken, and your end goal is to transform Kerlile into a true democracy, am I correct?”

“Yes, for too long our families have ruled Kerlile with an iron fist, depriving our citizens of the freedom to choose their own government, and other freedoms besides.”

“Great, then both of you cannot reject this idea. We have an election for President where all women of Kerlile can vote, Rebecca Arnott or Joanna Greenwood.”

Chaos erupted with everyone shouting over each other. Hart banged the table in front of her. “ENOUGH! Nirmala, you say you are confident the majority support policies exemplified by Greenwood. Arnott, you say democracy is a good thing. So, give me one good argument, either of you, for why we cannot do this.”

“It’s not our way,” Patel said.

“It’s not…” Arnott trailed off.

“If it’s not our way, Patel, then neither is bringing back Greenwood. Our way is to support the President selected by this Council, until her resignation or death. If you truly wish to stick to tradition, you should get behind Arnott immediately.”

The gathered Councillors and President looked at each other uneasily.

“This does not resolve the crisis with Greater Acadia,” Arnott said finally.

“No, but we are at a standstill regarding what would resolve it. Without knowing who, exactly, is in charge, things will continue as they are.”

“By the time we run your absurd election, we could be facing a nuclear war!” Patel exclaimed. “There simply isn’t time!”

“Then what, exactly, do you propose we do?” Hart said.

“My mother can challenge Rebecca to a duel to the death,” Letitia piped up.

“No,” President Arnott replied. “This is not the 1500s. Listen, right now, it depends what Greater Acadia does next. If we can agree at a bare minimum not to do anything provocative, then time may resolve this issue itself. And if that is not good enough for certain people, then I hope they enjoy nuclear Armageddon, which will definitely result in the return to government of those who orchestrated it,” she finished sarcastically.

“I will not participate in this charade of an election,” Patel said.

“On that, we agree,” said Arnott.

“But will you agree to refrain from trying to start a war?” Hart said to Patel.

“Fine. We see what they do. On the condition that, if they invade us, Arnott steps aside. If she is so confident they have no imperio-patriarchal ambitions, then it is a condition she should be happy to meet.”

“I am sure,” Arnott replied. “And so, I will. If Greater Acadia invades us without any further provocation, then I will resign as President and you can do as you wish. With whatever is left of the country. If you provoke them, the deal’s off.”

“Fine.”

“Fine.”

Councillor Chiu let out a slow exhale as the others sat down, staring at each other, but no longer pointing weapons, threatening coups, or trying to start nuclear wars. There was an uneasy atmosphere in the Council Chamber, but things were at least somewhat more stable than before the meeting. The factions had placed their bets. Now to await the result.

[Xiomera]

The Empress was annoyed with Greater Acadia. In the crisis unfolding between Acadia and Kerlile, the Empress saw an opportunity to capitalize on recent events, and make herself feel better about being annoyed as well.

As the missile launched by Kerlile went astray and landed in Acadian territory, the Xiomerans were aware of it almost as quickly as the Kerlians and Acadians were. Imperial Intelligence liked to say that our ears hear all, our eyes see all. When those eyes and ears were able to benefit from top notch, state of the art satellites and electronic surveillance, one perhaps had an unfair advantage in that regard. But the Xiomerans weren't about to apologize for that.

Instead, Calhualyana was going to take the chance to pounce. She ordered her secretary to arrange a call between herself and President Arnott of Kerlile. The Empress knew that Kerlile's missile program was....the polite way to phrase it was "not up to Xiomeran standards".

But, with Xiomera's help, it could be.

If Xiomera supplied Kerlile with missiles, Acadia would be distracted from meddling in affairs in Caxcana. The Kerlians would, ideally, see the benefit of being allied with Xiomera once more. And the Empress could amuse herself. It was a winning proposition all around.

[Lauchenoiria]

Written with Xiomera

President Arnott was relieved to have an excuse to get away from the other Councillors when she was informed that Empress Calhualyana wished to speak with her. She immediately went straight to her office, had her secretary patch through the call, and picked up the phone.

"Empress, what a pleasant surprise. I hope things in Xiomera are well," she began.

"They are wonderful, but thank you for asking. I would ask how things are going with Kerlile, but I know you are going through a bit of a crisis at the moment with the Acadians." Calhualyana made a noise of sympathy. "Xiomera still views Kerlile fondly, and we would like to help if we can."

"We would be grateful," Arnott replied. "They are massing troops at our border, and we fear retaliation for our failed test. It is well-known that our neighbours are no fans of our existence." She did not mention how her own Councillors had sent troops to the border first.

Calhualyana didn't need Arnott to tell her that; Xiomeran surveillance had precisely tracked each nation's troop movements. Instead, Calhualyana went with the story Arnott was spinning. "Xiomera can certainly relate to having difficult neighbors," she said.

"Xiomera is willing to provide missile technology and equipment to Kerlile, along with advisors to help you implement it all. This would ensure less likelihood of accidents such as the one that started this whole crisis. It would also give you the means to protect yourself in the future, should certain neighbors prove to be hostile." Calhualyana tapped her pen in thought as she spoke. "Xiomera can also provide you equipment to bolster your military stockpile. I believe we have done that in the past, but more is always better," the Empress added with a laugh.

Yes please, Arnott thought to herself immediately. One of the only things both factions of the Council of Kerlile agreed on was the need for better defence technology. Arnott was a reformist, not a revolutionary. She did support the continued existence of Kerlile, and she believed there were many threats to such a thing. She couldn't sound too eager, though.

"We would appreciate that, your majesty. Xiomeran technology is remarkable," she replied, going for flattery. It was also stating the obvious. "This would ensure that our neighbours think twice before attacking us. Not just the Acadians, but the Lauchenoirians too. A fair number of them want vengeance for their civil war and have chosen to blame us for it."

"It is typical of Lauchenoirians to blame others for their shortcomings," Calhualyana said sympathetically. "Acadia and Lauchenoiria are no friends to Xiomera. If I can help Kerlile and block them at the same time, this is a double win for Xiomera, as I see it. Kerlile has always been a nation very similar to Xiomera in many ways, it is only natural that we support each other. So, I shall send my first team of advisors to Kerlile tomorrow, with your permission. They will bring a trial run of equipment from our stockpiles, to lay the foundation for missile defense and for improving your forward operating bases. From there, we will begin supply runs regularly to beef up your defenses. It is fortunate that we have been in a fairly constant state of production since the Aurian crisis began and have not allowed our stockpiles to become depleted."

"We would be happy to receive your advisors tomorrow," Arnott said. "And we are very grateful for the assistance and support. This is a difficult time in Kerlile."

"Difficult times cannot break strong people. Kerlile will get through this, I am confident. If there is anything else Xiomera can do to help, feel free to contact me. It is my hope that once this crisis is over, Xiomera and Kerlile will be able to renew our historic ties of friendship."

"Thank you," Arnott said. "We do appreciate everything Xiomera has done for us in the past and present." It was just a little awkward, she thought privately, that Huenya had also done a fair bit.

"I am so glad to hear that. Our advance team will arrive tomorrow in Grapevale, then. If their performance is in any way substandard, do let me know. Otherwise, we will speak again soon. Thank you for taking my call, madam President."

"Thank you for calling, Empress," Arnott said. Once the call ended she exhaled slowly in a mix of relief and apprehension. Relief because Kerlile certainly needed better defences. Apprehension because closer ties with Xiomera would undoubtedly benefit her opposition. Still, that risk was better than getting invaded. And Xiomera was a very helpful ally for Kerlile to have.

[Xiomera]

Grapevale, Kerlile
April 11th
8:00 am

Four giant Tocanocht cargo planes slid to a stop at the Grapevale airport. With typical Xiomeran efficiency, they began disgorging their cargo. Each plane had eighty Imperial Army and Imperial Air Force military advisors aboard, to show the Kerlians how to use the other cargo which was arriving. One plane would deliver two Xacanautl armored fighting vehicles and two Tepaxca main battle tanks. Two other planes would carry supplies to begin construction of a fixed missile site near the Kerlian capital. The last plane, however, would deliver three examples of the single biggest danger (and annoyance) to Kerlile's neighbors that Xiomera was providing.

The Camiahua mobile missile launcher was a system that was capable of firing a missile up to 5500 miles, using either conventional or nuclear missiles. It was a previous-generation Xiomeran design first deployed in 1997, but it was still quite deadly. Being mobile, it was also hard to pin down and destroy, unlike fixed missile sites. It was an ideal starter set for an aspiring missile power such as Kerlile. Since it was a previous-generation design, Xiomera also had plenty of them in their stockpile to deploy quickly - another advantage for the Kerlians.

This first flight was one of two that would occur that day, along with two a day for the foreseeable future bringing more advisors and hardware. Xiomera saw a chance to establish a presence outside of Caxcana, and was going to take advantage of it.

[Greater Acadia]

"So now Kerlile has Xiomeran Missiles..."

It was less of a question and more of a statement of fact. Prime Minister Gargant sat again at the head of a meeting table, discussing the newest wrench in the gears regarding the recent spat with Kerlile.

"Only a few, sir. And they're older models which our ABM defenses are more than sufficient to intercept." General Davis added. "Though we suspect that more will likely be on the way."

"Clearly Calhualyana doesn't like it when other countries stand up for themselves." Director Belle added venemously, crossing her arms as she sat back in her chair. "Shall I send a strongly worded letter to Xiomera?"

"Go ahead." Gargant nodded in reply. "Doubt it'll stop her, but at least it might assuage the public that we're not taking that move lying down." He cleared his throat and sat back up in his seat.

"Now how do we go about resolving this without escalating to all out war?"

"A mutual draw-down of forces at the border to pre-incident levels would be a start, sir." General Davis suggested. "Talk with Kerlile and agree to start moving troops away from the border if they also do so. Set a timetable for both sides to do so."

"And what about those Xiomeran missiles?" Gargant asked.

"Not much we can do there." Director Belle chimed in. "With how belligerent Xiomera has become in recent years, its unlikely shipments will stop even after this whole debacle is over. And with how paranoia runs Kerlile, they'll be unlikely to decline further shipments. Even if they do, they'll have examples within their borders to pull apart for reverse engineering. Either way, within the decade, Kerlile will have viable ballistic missiles to hit any part of Greater Acadia."

"So we'll have to counter Xiomera further. Strengthen their geopolitical opponents." Gargant muttered before turning to back to Director Belle. "Contact our counterparts in Huenya and Milintica. See if they would be open to military technology transfers and purchases of our equipment. Might give Calhualyana something to think about."

With that he addressed the room.

"And for God's sake someone get me a line to Rebecca Arnott! It's about damn time we tried to solve this without killing each other!"

[Lauchenoiria]

After the call between President Arnott and Prime Minister Gargant, the Kerlians ordered their troops to head back from the border. Arnott had decided to take a leap of faith: gone was the time when patriarchal democracies invaded their neighbours for the smallest slight. Besides, withdrawing the troops would anger the Women’s Party Councillors, and that was a definite positive. Shortly after the Kerlians began to withdraw, the Acadians did the same. The Matriarchy breathed a sigh of relief. It seemed like the crisis had passed.

Meanwhile, the Xiomerans continued to instruct the Kerlians on the operation of their new military hardware. And elsewhere, certain people were not happy with this new alliance. Perhaps the crisis wasn’t over just yet.

[Democratic Republic Of Eiria]

(Joint Post with Lauchenoiria)

Chancellor's Manor, Geminus

To say that Chancellor Stendē was pissed would've been a grave understatement. The depth of the cold anger, frustration, and betrayal that she felt didn't have any suitable word in either Eirian or English. The best attempt at translating her emotion would've be Avarnzēbenavaca, the Eirian compound word that meant, more or less, "A building storm just before lightning strikes."

And that lightning was about to strike. Gathered on the other side of the ornate wooden desk was Minister of Diplomacy Alice Lancaster, Minister of Defense Stephen Brun, Chief of Staff Julius Riekstins, and National Security Counsel Zoē Provost.They all were gathered to advise the Chancellor on the recent announcement of a Xiomeran base in Kerlile. After their deliberation, they all came to one conclusion: The Chancellor needs to call President Arnott immediately.

The Chancellor picked up her phone, causing her advisors to pick up a phone on the other side of the study, in order to listen in. When she heard the phone pick up, she started speaking, keeping her tone neutral and measured. "Hello, President Arnott. This is Chancellor Leah Stendē of Eiria. I trust that you're doing well?"

Arnott had been arguing with her daughter when she received the call. Rosemary, her young successor on the Council, was still angry about the alt-ed debacle following the Patel Estate incident. So President Rebecca Arnott was relieved (for now) to have an excuse to pause the conversation.

"Ah, Chancellor, how lovely to hear from you. Things here are going... adequately," she said, eyeing her daughter who remained on the other side of the office with her arms folded and a scowl on her face. "I trust that things in Eiria are going okay?"

"More or less, yes. Had a few of the most mind-numbingly bureaucratic meetings earlier today. And I say that as a lawyer!" Even though her tone over the phone was joking, her expression betrayed her true emotions. "Unfortunately, I must admit that this is not a social call. I have a few... Concerns about your recent dealings with Xiomera that I hope we could discuss?"

"Ah," said Arnott involuntarily. Her expression shifted, causing Rosemary to look at her curiously. "I am going to guess this is not about the wine imports or the luxury cars?"

"Sadly, no. Although Eirian vineyards may want to expand into the international market further, that is not on my list of priorities right now." Stendē paused. "To be completely frank, I was very surprised to hear the news of a new Xiomeran base abroad. I had assumed it would have been somewhere like Eikengärd, but to hear that it was in Kerlile was quite a shock."

Arnott sighed. "You must understand, Chancellor, that Kerlile is frequently under threat. Most nations, for all the progress in gender equality, still consider us an unnatural aberration. I recognise that many nations, including Eiria, have... tense relations with Xiomera, but their assistance in the modernisation of our military has been deeply beneficial for our defence arrangements."

Stendē was speechless for a moment, incensed at the shallow answer. "'Tense relations with Xiomera.' Spoken like someone who's not actively staring down the barrel of Xiomeran Imperialism. And I get that Kerlile is in a tenuous defence situation right now, but was Xiomera really your only option? I'm appalled that you would run so freely into Calhualyana's arms, especially after their alliance with Iskiram. Xiomera was far from your best choice as a defensive ally, and I don't know how you cannot see that fact."

"Tell me, Chancellor," Arnott replied. "Who would you have us turn to? Who exactly do you think would be willing to help us out? You? No, of course not. The world despises Kerlile. You speak of choice as if it is something we have an abundance of. And the Council has been very clear to me that I must do more to ensure Kerlile's safety."

"Why not turn to us, Madam President? All you had to do was ask us. Kerlile was on the brink of reform, on the edge of progress. We never wanted that to see that progress lost to Xiomera. Would it have been a temporary political mess? Yes, but for a reformed, democratic Kerlian ally, it would have been worth it. So, respectfully, stop acting like you had no other choice, because you did. You just were too busy playing a martyr to actually realize it."

"You're right," Arnott replied... and then her voice hardened. "We did have a choice. We could choose an ally who would not interfere in our domestic policies. Who would allow us to have our unique culture. Or, we could choose you. With your qualifications, and your conditions, and your insistence that we do things your way. I support reform, but you would have us change overnight in a way that would guarantee a backlash. You would have us abolish the Council, give votes to men, change our entire system of government overnight! So, yes. Perhaps I had a choice. A choice to live or a choice to die in the civil war that would have inevitably caused."

At that remark, Stendē did something unexpected. She started to laugh, the sound an angry and jaded chuckle. "We wouldn't have expected everything overnight. You act like we aren't pragmatic, and are solely idealistic. And besides, you really think that Xiomera expects nothing of you? You really think that Calhualyana wouldn't interfere if she disliked your so-called 'reform efforts'? I'm surprised you could be that naïve, especially after Xiomera staged a coup in Auria. You've sold your soul for instant gratification, President Arnott. You've signed the death warrant for everything that your party has fought for. And you've now forced me to respond. Quite an impressive political maneuver."

"Chancellor Stendē," Arnott replied, trying to speak more calmly, "I am not naive about Empress Calhualyana's ambitions. What you must understand is that the cause of the Reform Party was greatly harmed the day Carmen Robinson was exiled. Internal Kerlian politics is... different from that of a classical democracy. The Council is divided, especially after the revelations surrounding Anita Patel's death. And I will remind you that the Council can vote to remove the President from office. A vote on which attempting to override their decision on this matter would likely have triggered."

"I recognize the challenging political situation that you are in, and you have my sincerest sympathies. However, that argument falls quite flat, for one reason: Why wasn't Eiria on the table as a potential ally in the first place? You didn't answer my points that detailed why Xiomera was objectively a worse choice, and you are now attempting to essentially say 'What's done is done' and wash your hands of what was done by the council. But if Eiria had been on the table in the first place, you likely wouldn't have had to worry about overriding the Council's vote, correct?" Stendē spoke slowly and articulately, trying to not appear too aggressive. "You are the President of Kerlile. You had the ability to propose alternatives to Xiomera. I doubt the Council was exactly eager to ally a nation that is an ally of Iskiram. Why wasn't Eiria suggested in the first place?"

Arnott thought about all the ways she could answer the question. The truth: she hadn't wanted any foreign military base, but the Council had forced the issue after the missile incident. That she feared the Patels would blame her for Anita's death, given the past between their families. That she supported reform of the system, not a complete destruction of it - making true democracy incompatible with her worldview. That they'd already accepted the missile advisors and now it was too awkward to turn back. That she did it to prevent Xiomera from turning on them.

Not one of those reasons was politically acceptable to voice aloud. Even though they were all true. That, she thought sadly, was the essence of why democracy often ended so poorly. Politics and truth were often incompatible. In the end, there was nothing true she could say, and no convincing lies.

"You say you would not have expected change overnight," Arnott said eventually, this line of argument her only option. "But tell me truthfully: would you really have offered us military support, of all things, the way things stand? When men have no vote, and no right to hold government positions? When our nuclear program continues? When we still use capital punishment? When the Council can still override the Parliament?"

The Chancellor was quite for a few moments. "If it meant depriving Xiomera of a key ally in the region? If it meant progress towards rights for Kerlian men, dissidents, and Kerlians in general? Yes. It may cost me reelection, or my reputation. But if you were truly genuine with your reform efforts... I don't see how I could sleep at night if I didn't, knowing that I just sentenced millions of Kerlians to be trapped by the oppressive status quo."

Arnott, who was now being watched intently by her daughter, began to rub her temples. "Well. That... is not the answer we would have suspected in such a scenario."

It was weak, but all of her other arguments could not be voiced. In truth, she was embarrassed about the whole thing: the Council had forced her to go back on her word regarding both Iskiram and the presence of foreign troops. She did not, however, desire to be the next victim of whichever family had sent an Aurora as an assassin.

Stendē pursed her lips. "Indeed. I sincerely apologize for the situation, but again, you have forced my hand. We cannot maintain full relations with allies of Xiomera. And, to that end..." She sighed. "Effective immediately, all Eirian embassy staff are being recalled from Grapevale. Ideally, this will not be a permanent decision. If the Reform Party regains power and decides to stand up against Xiomeran imperialism, we will be by your side. But, until then, I have no other choice."

Arnott hadn't expected the Eirians to actually do anything. Her headache got worse. "That is very disappointing to hear," she replied. She could have said more, but what would be the point? Stendē wasn't going to suddenly change her mind.

The Chancellor cleared her throat. "Well, that's all I have to discuss. Goodbye, Madam President. And... And may the Angels bless your reform efforts, before it's too late."

[Lauchenoiria]

Josephine Alvarez felt sick to her stomach. So, the Xiomerans were building a military base not far from the Lauchenoirian border, mere weeks after threatening Lauchenoiria. It did not take a genius to see the potentially disastrous connection. She’d sat in the crisis meeting feeling like the words of the military generals and advisors and other politicians were being said through a wall of water, distorted. She’d obviously acted normal, and responded normally, because nobody seemed concerned, but she barely remembered what she’d said.

She got out her phone after the meeting, when she locked herself in a toilet cubicle to get away from the other people for five minutes.

Josephine Alvarez
What. The. Hell???

Jennifer Hale
Hey, don’t blame me! I voted against it!

Josephine Alvarez
The military base or helping Calhualyana with her plans to invade Lauchenoiria??

Jennifer Hale
Jennifer is typing…

And then nothing. She never sent her reply. Alvarez stared at her phone in disbelief. Not even a denial? Did that mean her fears were correct? There was a fringe party who wanted to move the capital of Lauchenoiria to Carville in the south. At this point in time, that didn’t seem like the worst idea in the world.

“God help us…” Josephine whispered, clasping her hands in prayer for the first time in many years.

*

“Hey!” Jennifer Hale said as someone grabbed her phone and flung it across the Council Chamber before she could finish her message.

“This is important business!” snapped Letitia Greenwood. “It is not the time for you to flirt with your foreign wife.”

“I wasn’t…” Jennifer began, then stopped. Actually, if Letitia had realised what she was talking about, it would be worse than if she thought Jennifer was solely distracted.

“Moving swiftly onwards,” Councillor Chiu said, eyeing the pair, “we need to figure out how to respond to the Eirian situation.”

“Just do the usual ‘we are deeply disappointed that Eiria has decided it is necessary to take this action, however should they change their mind in the future we would be happy to consider reopening our mutual embassies’; make it seem like they’re the unreasonable ones, etc, etc,” said Councillor Pierre. “I’d much rather talk about the situation with my daughter and your great-granddaughter, Lia.”

“That is not on the agenda for today. Does anyone…”

“Actually, Pierre’s right,” Rosemary interrupted, folding her arms. “I don’t think…”

“WE WILL STICK TO THE AGENDA!” Chiu said, slamming her hands on the table and standing up with more speed than one would expect from an eighty-one-year-old.

“Fine, then let us talk about how stupid we are to let Xiomera establish a military base here!” Rosemary shouted, standing up as well, arms folded. “Because I see right here on the agenda, ‘Xiomeran military base’. You do realise we’ll never get rid of them? And everyone’s more pissed off with us than ever. If we’d only asked some of the other nations beforehand we could have improved relations and then we wouldn’t need to worry about defence so much!”

“Are you so naïve,” Councillor Nirmala Patel laughed, “as to believe the democracies speak truth when they say they would have improved relations with us were this not to have happened? Why, then, do they only say this now? If wishes were horses, then beggars would ride. You speak of dreams that nobody would have dreamed had the issue not been forced. No, they will never accept us. We will hear a lot more of this. I urge all of you – do not be taken in by their sweet lies.”

[Greater Acadia]

((Joint post with Lauchenoiria)

Christine Belle sat down at her desk, letting out a long breath through her mouth as she allowed herself a moment of rest. Dealing with the press after the Prime Minister’s sudden heart attack had been taxing, asking her questions that, frankly, she had no answer to. They should have known better, she thought. Anything for a story, she supposed.

Moment of rest over, she picked up the phone on her desk, resolving to complete the next daunting task ahead of her. Quickly getting a hold of support, she gave a simple order.

“Get me a line to Rebecca Arnott of Kerlile, please.” She stated. “Let me know when it’s live.”

Getting a confirmation from the tech on the other end of the line, she set the phone down. As she waited, she steeled herself mentally and physically for the coming conversation. Hopefully Arnott would be receptive to her suggestions.

Suggestions which, by the way, were not actually sanctioned by the Prime Minister prior to his sudden event. She’d been meaning to get the green light, but events had conspired to remove that option. So now she hoped it would be best to beg for forgiveness afterwards, so to speak.

Though, in fairness, Gargant had told her to resolve the Kerlile issue diplomatically. Hopefully for good.

A light flashed on her office phone and she picked it up.

“Hello? President Arnott?” She began cordially. “This is Vice-Minister Christine Belle of Greater Acadia. How are you today?”

Arnott had just arrived back from the fertility clinic she'd visited to discuss her options for producing a backup heir. Her sister Claire had managed to get Rosemary into hiding, but Rebecca did not trust the Patels one iota.

"I'm very well, thank you," she lied. "I am sorry to hear about Prime Minister Gargant's heart attack. Please give him my condolences when you are able."

“That’s good to hear.” Said Christine, reclining in her office chair. “I’ll be sure to pass along your condolences to the family when I am able. I was hoping we could discuss the current issue of tensions between our respective nations. I have a proposal that may benefit us both, if you are willing to hear it.”

"Of course," Arnott replied. "I do hope we can find a peaceful resolution to the matter; and I am always open to at the very least listening to suggestions. What did you have in mind?"

“Very well then.” Belle began, clearing her throat. “Simply put, I’d like to start with the mutual reopening of embassies. Hopefully we can avoid such a diplomatic snafu in the future by simply being able to talk to each other without having to route it through complicated back-channels.” 

“Next, I was hoping to give some…economic assistance to Kerlile, in exchange for a few guarantees.” She continued. “Namely, that we would remove all sanctions imposed by Greater Acadia, in exchange for Kerlile taking a non-aggressive stance in regards to her neighbors. This would, of course, not impact your ability to respond to aggressive actions on you.”

"I agree with you regarding embassies; we can begin preparations to do so immediately, that won't be a problem. It is a good solution to any future issues. The matter of such guarantees is… more difficult," Arnott sighed. "I would need to consult the Council, and I am uncertain they would be responsive right now."

Christine hummed, drumming her fingers on the edge of her desk.

“That is… unfortunate.” She admitted. “I would ask that you at least float the idea by them the next time you meet, if you feel it appropriate. I would also like to emphasize the benefits to Kerlile’s economy should we relax sanctions on your nation. Greater Acadia is a large market, and I’m sure Kerlian products and services could find success here. I am, however, happy to oblige on the diplomatic front. I have a number of staff who I can quickly gather to open an office in Grapevale within the next few days, if you like.”

"Yes, that would be possible - as temporary premises we would be happy to give you those recently vacated by the Eirians," Arnott responded. "We may take a little longer to get staff to you, however. Procedures here can be a bit slow on such things. And I will raise the other matter with the Council later today; though I cannot guarantee success."

“Very well then. Should you get a positive response, I will be more than happy to move forward.” Christine replied, a bit more cheer leaking back into her voice. “I will, of course, need to table them motion for Parliament to deliberate, but I’m confident I have enough votes within our coalition to get it passed. Feel free to call me at any time, Madam President. And best wishes to you and yours.”

"Thank you; and my best wishes to you too," Arnott replied, pleasantly surprised at how the call had gone. In spite of everything, this was shaping up to be a very good day.

Christine was similarly surprised at how things had gone as she set down the phone. She’d honestly expected far more pushback to her proposals. That Arnott was willing to entertain the issue enough to actually bring it to the council was a massive win, even if it wouldn’t guarantee she’d get everything she wanted. 

With that she decided a small round of celebration was in order. She quickly sprang to her feet and exited the room with just a little bit of a skip in her step. There was a packet of hot cocoa in the break room with her name on it.

[Lauchenoiria]

Council Chambers, Grapevale, Kerlile
Present Day

Nirmala Patel had attended today’s session briefly. She walked in, gun visibly strapped to her waist, and picked up a copy of the day’s agenda, scanning it. Councillor Chiu had reprimanded her for the visible weapon: while not a violation of law, it was certainly a breach of decorum not to at least attempt to conceal it. Nirmala replied that she did not intend to stay; none of the matters on the agenda were of greater consequence than the other business she was engaged in. Then, she left the way she came in.

The other seven (Rosemary Arnott had not been in attendance all week) sat looking at each other for a little while Councillor Chiu sorted through her paperwork, muttering to herself about the futility of family feuds and their effect on attendance at important Council meetings. Then, she cleared her throat, settling down and addressing the Council.

“First item on our agenda is a further proposed political party for consideration. I doubt we will take long to discuss it. The Anarcho-Syndicalist Party of Eastern Kerlile.”

“Nooope,” Letitia Greenwood said, shaking her head. The others were all muttering to themselves and shaking their heads. Chiu scanned the room. Not one Councillor was refraining from making her distaste known.

“Unanimously rejected,” Chiu concluded, making a note. “Second item: President Arnott has submitted a proposal from Greater Acadia for our consideration. Greater Acadia is willing to drop all sanctions on us, in exchange for our taking a non-aggressive stance towards our neighbours. The floor is open for discussion.”

“Completely support,” Hale jumped in quickly. “It’s a win-win. We need good relations with our neighbours; this resolves the missile issue peacefully; and we’re so close to being able to end the rationing that this will likely carry us over that line.”

“I second Jennifer’s support,” Georgiou added. “Both for the economy, and for the potential cultural exchanges this could facilitate. Plus, if we have better relations with them, we can finally respond to the Zongongians about the endangered species zone to the north.”

“I have to disagree with my colleagues,” Letitia Greenwood frowned. “How do we know this is not a trap? The patriarchal countries have done worse in the past.”

“Come, Letitia,” Hart said. “We have the Xiomerans now. This benefits us more than you think. We’ve been passing reformist laws left, right, and centre to draw attention away from the Xiomeran military base. What is the ultimate distraction? Looking like we want peace!”

“Some of us actually want peace, you know?” Viallamando replied. “I am no reformist, but war with Greater Acadia does not benefit us. I think the majority agree on this.”

“Lucia is right,” Pierre piped up, reluctantly. “We should not be warmongering – that’s such a male activity! I will also be lending my support to this proposal.”

“It seems that this is much less controversial than I anticipated,” Chiu chuckled. “I personally was willing to be swayed either way, but if Greenwood is the only opponent, then it will not matter. Perhaps we can vote already, and get home hours ahead of schedule!”

Voting commenced, and concluded quickly, with 5 in favour, 1 against, 1 abstention, and 2 absences. The session was paused for Chiu to contact President Arnott and inform her that she could get back to Greater Acadia: Kerlile would indeed be accepting the proposal to guarantee a non-aggressive stance towards their neighbours, in exchange for the dropping of all sanctions on the Matriarchy.

[Greater Acadia]

(Joint post with Lauchenoiria)

Office of the President of Kerlile, Grapevale
Immediately after Council meeting

“Thank you again, Lia,” President Arnott said, hanging up the phone. Once she was sure the call was disconnected, she laughed and spun around on her chair in celebration. She hadn’t expected the Council to agree: this was a pleasant surprise.

“Ellie, can you get Christine Belle of Greater Acadia on the line?” she instructed once she’d composed herself. Then she tapped her fingers in a joyful tune on her desk as she waited for the call to be connected.

Belle perked up slightly when her office phone rang. Putting down the set of documents she’d been going over, she quickly answered.

“Hello?” She asked.

“Ma’am, President Arnott of Kerlile wishes to speak with you.” The tech on the other end stated.

Belle took a minute to steel herself. This was either going to be good news, or it would be business as usual. She really, really hoped it was the former.

“Put her through.” She finally ordered. There was a quick tone on the line as her call was connected.

“Director, Christine Belle.” She answered as the line connected.

“Good morning, Vice-Minister,” Rebecca Arnott said cheerily. “I hope I didn’t interrupt anything important?”

Christine took a quick look at her documents. They were regarding the current developments regarding Eïkangärd’s increasingly hostile actions towards the Brother Nations. Important, but not immediately pressing.

“No you haven’t, Madam President. I trust things are progressing well on your end?” She responded with equal cheer.

“Yes, indeed they are! I have excellent news for you: the Council of Kerlile have agreed to your proposal regarding our taking a non-aggressive stance towards our neighbours. We are willing to give you guarantees on the matter, in exchange for the lifting of sanctions.”

Belle had to repress the urge to jump up and dance at that news.

“That’s wonderful news! I’ll be sure to put forward the motion to Parliament right away!” Belle replied, managing to keep a lid on her excitement. “We should have the resolution passed within the next week. Would that be agreeable to you?”

“Of course, that would be fantastic,” Arnott grinned. “I’m delighted that we are taking this opportunity to improve our relations and move into the future together.”

“As am I, Madam President. I do hope that we can put this whole missile business behind us.” Belle agreed, leaning back in her chair.

“Indeed,” Arnott nodded. “Let us put our differences in the past, and move forward to brighter times.”

“Yes, absolutely.” Belle stated, an excited smile spreading across her face. “It was a pleasure speaking to you, President Arnott. I hope you have a pleasant day.”

“You too, Vice-Minister Belle,” Arnott said, leaning back on her chair with a smile on her face also.