[Democratic Republic Of Eiria]

Emily Rouchard wasted no time. As the guns sounded in different parts of the manner, she deftly pulled a tag on the back of her right boot, revealing a thin dagger. "As a matter of fact, I am". She responded, quickly showing the dagger as the door was broken down. Her guard training started to kick in, as the three assailants pointed pistols and daggers in their direction.

This was her secret mission, after all. Both a skilled Diplomat and a Lunar Guard Agent, sent to assist and protect the Crown Prince at all costs. She backed up to the table, grabbed her hot coffee mug, and tossed it at one of the combatants. She threw her dagger at another and pulled both Texōccoatl and Nōlinyauh behind the table, sweeping papers and files off as it turns sideways. She reached for her tag in her other boot as the final assassin shot at them, but the blade must have been wedged in the leather back of the boot, because it didn't move. She pulled harder, but the flimsy tag almost ripped, and forced her to stop. She couldn't fail now. She frantically looked around for a weapon.

[Xiomera]

A quick whistle caught Rouchard's attention. The Crown Prince tossed her his pistol. "I've always been more of a fan of the up-close-and-personal approach," he said, gesturing with his dagger and giving a challenging look to the assassin that was approaching him. As the assassin lunged at Texōccoatl, another ran at Rouchard. The third one had fallen back, Rouchard's dagger in his chest. With a grunt, he pulled the dagger out, revealing that he was wearing body armor. He forced himself off the wall, preparing to join his companion who was attacking the Crown Prince.

Seeing Texōccoatl would be facing multiple opponents, Nōlinyauh suddenly came around from behind the desk, grabbing a heavy ashtray and flinging it at the head of the third assassin. It hit the assassin, but only stopped him for a moment. Shaking his head, he turned and fired at the Secretary. Nōlinyauh gasped, falling behind the desk.

---

In the hallway, the three Jaguar Warriors that had tried to come to the Crown Prince's aid found themselves heavily challenged by the assassins who outnumbered them. One of them shouted into his headset for reinforcements.

---

On the second floor of the château, Brigadier General Tlanexchel had managed to take down three of the assassins targeting him. However, the two others had gotten closer, and he was almost out of ammunition for his rifle. Switching to his pistol, he shouted the most vile Xiomeran insults he could think of to anger the remaining assassins into making a mistake. "Is that all you've got?" he added, for good measure.

The two remaining assassins, however, were too smart to let anger goad them into a fatal error. They simply continued to advance towards the General's precarious position behind the now heavily damaged furniture. Tlanexchel silently issued a prayer to Huītzilōpōchtli and prepared for their advance.

A sudden series of gunshots from the other end of the hall caught both Tlanexchel and the assassins off guard. Three other Jaguar Warriors had arrived, catching the assassins in a crossfire between them and the General. Tlanexchel used the final rounds in his rifle to good effect - the hallway was soon cleared.

Tlanexchel ran up to the other Jaguar Warriors. "To the Crown Prince!" he shouted, leading them towards the other end of the château.

[Democratic Republic Of Eiria]

Rouchard deftly caught the gun tossed her way, quickly examining it. She noted the supposedly stabbed assassin's body armor and cursed mentally. She watched Nōlinyauh fall back after being shot and cursed verbally this time. "Shit!". She peeked up over the table and started firing at the one coming at her, then the ones Tēxoccoatl was dealing with. She attempted to fire to disable if she could, but that mattered little since they had pistols.

She attempted to fire more, but the gun made a quiet grinding noise. Click click. "Damn". She pulled her left boot off and shook it, attempting to dislodge the dagger. She was finally able to pull it out, and joined the Crown Prince, armed with a thin blade and combat training.

[Xiomera]

Rouchard's gunplay would prove beneficial, as one of the assassins would go down. The one who Tēxoccoatl was fighting slashed at the Crown Prince, ripping through the shoulder of his dress shirt. A thin line of blood began trailing down his arm. Tēxoccoatl let out a particularly vile Xiomeran curse and pivoted, striking at the assassin's neck to avoid the body armor. The assassin had to dodge back from his strike.

The other assassin was dealing with the effects of the dagger Rouchard had hit him with, and the ashtray that Nōlinyauh bounced off his head. Nevertheless, he was still on his feet, and took a clumsy stab at Rouchard.

Rouchard deftly used the assassin's clumsy movements against them, grabbing their wrist and twisting, intending to disarm them. The sharp blade dug into the skin on Rouchard's arm, making her grit her teeth. "Jūe beitain chaditèa paur Angelus". She muttered the age old Eirian insult 'You will be hunted by Angels' before leveraging several kicks against her opponent, to both legs and torso. She tried to block any incoming blow, her main objective to disarm and disable.

The assassin who had tried to attack Tēxoccoatl, in his dodge, had misjudged where he was placing his feet. The body of the assassin that Rouchard had shot tripped him up. Seeing his opponent fall off-balance, the Crown Prince took advantage of his weak position. His dagger found its original target, as Tēxoccoatl slammed into the assassin and drove him into the ground. Hastily scrambling to his feet, he approached the last assassin from behind, helping Rouchard finish him off.

As the last assassin fell, Tēxoccoatl gave the Eirian a quick smile. "Thanks for the help...you're pretty handy in a fight," he said, before his gaze started to waver. Without warning, he fell to the ground.

Tlanexchel and his reinforcements, having arrived just in time to see the Crown Prince fell, ran inside to help him. "He barely has a scratch, what the hell," the General muttered, before picking up the dagger the assassin had used to slash Tēxoccoatl's shoulder. He sniffed the blade, then threw the dagger away in alarm. "Tlumala," he hissed. The tlumala plant, native to Manauia and Cenotillo Islands, was the source of a potent poison favored by Xiomeran assassins. "Do not touch the blade, touch the handle only," Tlanexchel warned as another soldier moved to pick the dagger up.

"General, the Secretary has been shot," one of the Jaguar Warriors shouted, as another desperately tried to stop the bleeding from Nōlinyauh's chest. Tlanexchel shouted into his headset for medics to run to the office.

[Lauchenoiria]

Jointly written with [nation]Xiomera[/nation]

July 12th - morning

The MEV (medical evacuation vehicle) variant of the Xacanautl APC wouldn't pass for anyone's version of a fun bus. Stark, white-painted metal walls and black-vinyl-coated seats were the first things that became apparent to Adelina as she woke up. Then, as her vision came into focus, a soldier in desert camo with a medical insignia on their armband. "Don't try to get up, you've suffered a lot of injuries," the medic said, giving Adelina some water and helping her to raise the cup to her lips.

Next to the medic, Atezhuatl and Major Huatli sat gazing at Adelina. Atezhuatl had a pensive expression on his face; the look on the Major's face was more one of curiosity. "If you're not up to answering questions right now, we can return later," Huatli said. "But we are curious as to why you were being detained by ASI, and why they hurt you so badly."

"Who... who are you?" Adelina asked, almost whispering as her throat was still hoarse from the dehydration Mariya had subjected her to. "What is happening?"

"My name is Huatli. I am the Major in command of the 21st Battalion of the Imperial Army. This is Atezhuatl, my sergeant major and second in command," she said, gesturing to Atezhuatl, who simply nodded. "We rescued you from the ASI black site that we just raided. We....no longer answer to the government in Tlālacuetztla. As for what is happening, we are currently enroute to what we hope is a safe location."

"You support Empress Yauhmi?" Adelina said, attempting to move then wincing in pain. She switched to English briefly, to declare: "Thank the Goddess!" before returning to the Xiomeran they'd been using beforehand.

"My name is Adelina Sasaki, I was a Kerlian contractor working with ASI before the Empress was removed from power. They ordered me to torture her but I refused. So they tortured me too. Mariya Adema," she spat out the name, "was the one who tortured me and the Empress. Please tell me you either have her in custody or she has a bullet in her brain?"

At the revelation that Adelina was Kerlian, Huatli and Atezhuatl looked at each other briefly. A wry smile crossed both their faces, before they turned back to Adelina. "We did bring some other Kerlians who had been working at the site with us, but the person you named is not one of them," Huatli replied. "Although, if I know the Empress, capturing this Mariya will be something she devotes quite a bit of attention to."

Atezhuatl's previously pensive expression had softened. "Your refusal to harm the Empress was a brave act. You must have known what the consequences would be," he said.

"They were clear about that, yes," Adelina nodded slowly - she couldn't move her head any faster without pain. "I admit I did not know it would be as bad as... that. But I am a Kerlian and I do not work for the enemies of Kerlile. Empress Yauhmi is our ally, Calhualyana and the others who overthrew the Empress are our enemy."

She gently took another sip of water to try and soothe her throat. "You have to capture Mariya Adema. She's dangerous, really dangerous. She wasn't like me, she... she enjoyed it. Hurting others was what gave her pleasure. She can no more go a week without torturing someone than she can go without air to breathe."

"If this person dared to lay her hand on the Empress, I can assure you, her life was forfeit the moment she touched the Empress. Even if she flees back to the junta, even if she flees to another country, justice will come to her. It is only a matter of time," Huatli replied grimly. "If we are inclined to be restrained, we will merely capture her rather than kill her on sight. Although, if she isn't killed instantly, this Mariya will wish she had been."

The tone of Huatli's voice made it clear: Yauhmi wasn't the only one who could hold a grudge.

"In any event, your refusal to harm the Empress even in the face of what you suffered is an act we deeply appreciate. I am sure the Empress will wish to convey her gratitude. She's being treated in another medical vehicle, but I am sure you will be able to speak with her when we arrive at our destination."

"I'm glad she's okay. I worried Mariya would kill her. You said there were other Kerlians?" Adelina asked. "A couple of them tried their best to help me when I was imprisoned, I imagine they may have helped the Empress too? I can give you the names of those two - but the others, they worked with Mariya."

"The names of the ones who helped you would help us to confirm that. We do believe they helped the Empress as well, but a cross-reference always helps," Huatli replied. "As for the others, we are still analyzing the records we, erm, liberated from the ASI site during the raid. A more thorough analysis will have to wait until we reach Chuaztlapoc. However, we should be able to confirm your information. If the others did help Mariya, they will be detained - but in a much more humane fashion than ASI does it, don't worry."

"I will never do what I used to do to anyone ever again," Adelina said very firmly. There was no room for argument in her mind, she would rather die than torture another person. "Myeong Timar and Sarita Kalmar were the two who helped me. Listen, most of the Council don't even know we were sent here. Councillor Greenwood offered our services following the assassination of Emperor Topilpopoca without permission. Mariya has turned away from the Matriarchy, she will probably try and damage them somehow. They need to be warned of her existence."

Huatli's eyebrows rose slightly. "I see. Our ability to communicate with the outside world is a bit limited, as you might expect, thanks to the junta. However, we will do our best to warn the Council. As for Myeong and Sarita, they will be allowed to leave detention and all three of you will be reunited at Chuaztlapoc. If the Empress agrees, you'd be free to leave the city if you like, although given that the junta controls much of the countryside and cities, I wouldn't recommend it. You would frankly be much safer remaining with us."

"I for one will remain. There's no way I'd be able to get out of Xiomera," Adelina shook her head. "Not unless I was some kind of Aurora or something."

Huatli had to stifle a laugh at that. Oh, if you only knew.

"That is probably for the best, then," the Major replied soberly. "Our medic here will take good care of you until we get to Chuaztlapoc. Do you have any other questions for me?"

"If you don't mind, what is the state of affairs here and abroad? I wasn't given any news, at least none I could trust. Is it true that the Reformists in Kerlile were overthrown or was Mariya just trying to wind me up?"

"The reformists in Kerlile were not overthrown. There has been no significant political change there," Huatli replied. "The Council is still siding with the Empress and her son, who is still governing things from Laeral temporarily. As for affairs here....while we've managed to gain some support, the fake Emperor and his junta are still quite firmly in control of most of the country. There is increasing unrest at his rule, though, because his reign has been pretty tyrannical even by Xiomeran standards. We're just trying to hold on until enough pressure builds up around the country to force him out of power."

Adelina nodded, processing the news. "Thank you. Can I ask... what do you think our chances are? At victory, at survival?"

"On the surface, our chances are not great at either. I will not lie to you about that. However, I've always believed that you make your own results. There are a lot of people around Xiomera who want Xochiuhue gone and want things put back the way they were, or even changed for the better. There are also a lot of people outside Xiomera willing to help us. Many of those opposed to the regime are gathering at Chuaztlapoc. If the city can hold off the Emperor's forces, it would be a huge victory, and could even spark the beginning of the end for the regime. But only time will tell if we can pull it off." Huatli sighed. "I hope that assessment doesn't alarm you, but I do think it's important to not leave people in the dark."

"Thank you for your honesty. I spent most of my adult life working in the Restricted Region in Kerlile," winced Adelina. "I can often tell when people are lying and false hope is often more dangerous than slight fear. I will help you fight if you need, if I'm, uh, in a fit state..."

Adelina looked down at her own body for the first time since the conversation began, noticing how unhealthy she looked. She could almost see the bones in her arms and it was only now she remembered her missing finger. "I, uh, will do what I can. I don't believe in going down without a fight and I support Empress Yauhmi's cause wholeheartedly."

”I’m glad to hear that. For now, though, I would focus on your recovery,” Huatli said, not unkindly. “Your spirit will help you recover faster, and then we can discuss how you can help. But for now, get some rest. We’ll speak again soon,” the Major said as she stood up. “If there’s anything else you need, let one of the medics know.”

Adelina thanked Huatli, noticing how exhausted she felt. Her relief at being free from Mariya's torment was the strongest emotion she had felt in her whole life. And despite her own statement against the concept of false hope, she was full of it regardless.

After the two of them left the MEV and walked away, Atezhuatl couldn’t help himself. “Are you going to tell her at some point about the Aurora thing?”

Huatli did chuckle slightly. “Maybe. It seemed a bit much to drop that bombshell on her now, in her condition.” The humor fell away as she contemplated just what Adelina had actually gone through. “People say Xiomerans can be barbaric. Who the hell does that to someone though?”

Atezhuatl knew the Major well, and from her tone of voice and expression, it was clear to him that it wouldn’t be only Yauhmi who really wanted to find Mariya.

[Democratic Republic Of Eiria]

Midgard Command Base, Xiomera
July 20th, 9:02 AM

Commander Steel sat in his small office, generally displeased with the events of the morning. He had been in a sour mood ever since the assasination attempt on three Eirian politicians, including the Chancellor, had failed grandly. And I thought I had competent agents. Not one of them was able to kill an Eirian, especially that bastard Lancaster? I ought to have a talk with the trainers on their apparent lack of ability to pass any meaningful training on to their students.

A knock at the door disturbed his angry inner monologue. His Lieutenant, Codenamed Wire, peeked in, nervously noting his current mood. "Sir, the Agents are back from the Eirian missions".

He glowered and closed his laptop. "Wonderful. Send them in". Two nervous-looking agents stood at attention, eyes forward. "Reporting for Debrief, sir!". Lieutenant Wire returned back in with the mission reports, as was Debrief protocol, and began reading. "Operation Lightning Strike. Mission Goal: To assasinat-".

"Hold it, hold it". Steel stood, looking at the two agents. "Where's the third? There were three agents assigned, correct?".

Wire flipped through the pages. "Yes, sir. We lost contact with agent BT-036, assigned to target Alexander Dukov. As far as we can tell, he was captured while escaping. I can prepare an extraction, if you-".

He was interrupted by Steel slammed a large fist on the desk. "That's great! Two assassins failed to actually harm their target…." He gestured to the agents, who were at this point sweating like they had just finished a marathon. "...and one was captured after stabbing their target. Brilliant. Do you have word on what happened to Dukov?".

Wire hesitated, not wanting to incur any more of his Commander's infamous wrath. "Umm, he was taken to Compassion Hospital, where he was treated and where he remains in stable condition".

Steel flexed his fingers, trying to distract himself before he destroyed something in his own office. "Lieutenant Wire, take these two to the meeting room and debrief them there, please". He said through gritted teeth, leaving no room for questioning or debate. They hurried out of the cramped office, leaving Steel to himself.

The Commander sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. The Eirians were becoming extremely difficult. And he was beginning to suspect some of his agents have sympathy for the Eirians. After all, most of them were Eirian by birth. Steel, though, was born in Cape Auria, and was adopted by a couple of Midgard Agents who raised a number of children into the Midgard Ranks. He learned of his true origin at age 16, when his parents sat him down on his birthday.

He was still conflicted about researching his birth family. He had tried when he turned 18, but his Midgard Commander forced him to give up his search. Plus the name Christopher was common among Aurians born around his birth year, so he would have to comb through a ton of records just to have a chance at finding anything. And with the conflict in Xiomera escalating so fast, we just didn't have the time.

Being in his thirties, Steel was still fit for actual physical missions himself, something Odin was not. And with Odin incapacitated, he was planning to take a more active role in Midgard's operations, something Odin just couldn't do. Lead by example, instead of orders. He wasn't exactly fond of his old boss, seeing him as dated and a relic of an old ideology. Steel aspired to be a reformed version of Odin, one who deserves to be marked down in the history books. And if the Lancasters, or any other Eirian, stood in his way, he would take them down in his own way.


Cape Aurian Royal Jet, in flight near Mount Kairai, Eiria
July 20th, 10:20 AM

Queen Sophie Laurent took a sip of her water in a crystal wine glass as she glanced out the window, watching the mountains and hills of Eiria's Monterre province roll by. She had to admit, Eiria had beautiful landscapes. She took another sip from her glass and looked at the inhabitant of the chair across from her. Adrian Frank looked nervous, constantly looking out the window for any sign of Geminus. "Don't worry, we're not too far away from Geminus. Not much longer." She noted his half-eaten breakfast sandwich. "Excited to be home?".

He nodded. "Excited doesn't begin to sum it up". He turned back to Sophie, smiling. "Again, Thank you so much, your Majesty. You have given me a gift I don't know how to repay".

"Please, call me Sophie. You can repay me by not having to be expedited home again". She said in jest, smiling back. She had found Adrian stalled in Asylum proceedings, lonely and wanting to get home. She had used the Crown's extensive resources to hurry along the process and escort him home personally. She also filled him in on the history of Eiria since he was captured, at least, as much as an Aurian could. "Besides, it'll serve as a gesture of goodwill between our nations. Auria and Eiria have had some… Bad blood for centuries now, and hopefully this will begin to remidy it".

------

Alice Lancaster sat across from her brother, watching the trees fly by and noting the traffic signs. The limo was going as fast as the speed limit would allow, which only heightened Alice's suspicion. She knew something was up when her brother personally pulled her out of a meeting she was leading without explanation. She was almost tempted to tell the driver to pull over, but as she watched her brother's expression, she decided against it.

They say twins have a form of telepathy never seen anywhere else, and while that may not be entirely true, Alice had years of experience reading her brother's thoughts by his expression. But his expression today baffled her. He had his political mask on, but it was slipping, revealing anxiety. Not exactly bad anxiety, but more excited. He was fidgeting, something he usually tries to hide in front of others.

She watched as the limo pulled up to a gate, which was promptly opened and passed. The car pulled into tarmac, and Alice got a view of a private plane with the Cape Aurian flag displayed on the side. What are the Aurians doing here? The car stopped, and Will opened the door, letting Alice out as the cars of Solar Guard Agents pulled in behind them.

The stairway to the private jet was already down, and Royal Guardians in Red and Purple marched down them, followed by a Woman in Purple and a familiar face. Her heart slowed as she squinted, trying to make sure her eyes weren't deceiving her. Adrian.

He recognized her about the same time as she recognized him. He almost lept off of the stairway and ran across the tarmac, aiming for Alice as she did the same. They embraced in the middle of the waiting area, desperately trying to make sure that the other was real and not a dream or hallucination.

As the couple were embracing, the Chancellor greeted the queen, bowing lightly. "Thank you, your Majesty. I owe you a debt I'm not sure I can repay."

She respectfully nodded back. "Actually, I believe you can. I need access to Eirian adoption records. I need to find what happened to an Aurian who was adopted into Eiria".

"Who are you looking for?".

"My son".

[Democratic Republic Of Eiria]

(Joint Post with [nation]Xiomera[/nation])

The grand bedroom that had been reserved for the Crown Prince was decorated in the same centuries-old style as the rest of the château. The modern medical equipment clustered around his bed was a stark contrast to the elegant if dated surroundings.

Texōccoatl sighed softly as he woke up. His body hurt, and his throat was dry. He was given water by a nurse while another helped him to sit up. “How is Nōlinyauh?” was the first thing he asked.

The doctor who was treating him shook his head slowly. “The Secretary did not survive his injuries, your Majesty. I am deeply sorry.”

Texōccoatl’s fists clenched at the news, digging into the sheets on his bed. “Thank you, doctor. I am sure everyone did everything they could for him,” he said quietly. The doctor nodded, excusing himself.

The door to the bedroom shifted slightly, with soft knocking echoing over the beeping and whirring of the medical devices. Emily Rouchard slipped in, closing the door behind her. She was wearing a black shirt and dark jeans, which was more casual for her. She nodded at Texōccoatl. "You're awake. How are you feeling?".

”I have been better.” Texōccoatl sighed and sat up. “Things could be worse, certainly. I could have ended up like Nōlinyauh. I told him to stay behind me.” Texōccoatl’s expression grew pained at that, as he blamed himself for Nōlinyauh’s death.

Rouchard's expression darkened, face pulled back in a grim, sad mask. "I'm very sorry about Nōlinyauh. I tried everything I could to protect you both. I failed. You are not to blame for his death, however. That bastard Xochiuhue is. He also tried to assasinate Chancellor Lancaster, a Senator, and the Minister of Defense. Midgard likely had a hand in it as well. I think the 'Emperor' is getting desperate. It's stupid, because it'll only add fuel to the fire. And he'll get burned."

Texōccoatl nodded. “You’re right. Neither of us is to blame for this. Xochiuhue is. And I will make sure he is held to account for it. For everyone who’s been hurt.” The Crown Prince paused. “This is the first I have heard about attacks in Eiria. Is everyone there okay?”

"Yeah. The Chancellor was unharmed, the Minister of Defense's house burned down without him in it, and Dukov is at Compassion Hospital recovering. Senators have started to send him flowers, including his main Rival Legrand". She shook her head. "The Emperor is somehow uniting our politicians. As someone who has lived in Eiria my entire life, it's fascinating to watch." She shrugged, examining her clothing. "I don't usually wear anything without a weapon attached. These are some of the few clothes I own without a hidden pocket or detachable knife."

”I know the feeling,” Texōccoatl replied. “I am not used to not having a weapon on me, but I now have plenty of guards, at least.” The contingent of heavily armed Jaguar Warriors in the room was testament to the new emphasis on security.

"Yeah, about that...." She looked down torwads the floor and back at him. "I'm not just a diplomat. They sent me here to both aid you and protect you. It was Alice Lancaster's idea. I have a lot more than just diplomatic training. I'm sorry for hiding this from you, but it was meant to keep you safer."

”Trust me, I’m not complaining. I might not be here right now without your help.” Texōccoatl managed a smile. “Please let her know I am grateful.”

"Of Course. I'm sure she wishes you a fast recovery. So do I. What kind of poison was on the blade? I'm not familiar with Xiomeran natural toxins."

”Tlumala. It’s a plant native to Manauia Island and Cenotillo Island. The plant is used to make a fast acting poison derived from the toxic alkaloids of the plant. It causes unconsciousness, paralysis and eventual cardiac arrest if not treated immediately. It’s been used by Xiomeran assassins for centuries. I’m just lucky we had an antidote for it.”

"Huh. Startling. Eiria only has a few select plants and flowers that are poisonous, so I guess we got lucky." She sat down next to the bed. "Personally, I find the purpose of poison used in a blatant attack a bit pointless. I mean, you have top-tier Laeralite and Xiomeran medical staff, plus you knew it was poisoned. Eiria has a much different style than Xiomera when it comes to operations, it seems."

”Poison is traditional, and Xiomerans love tradition. Not to mention, poison on the blade is meant as a a backup if just stabbing someone doesn’t kill them. If nothing else, ASI does like to be thorough,” Texōccoatl laughed grimly.

"It appears so, unfortunately." Rouchard shifted in her chair. "Eiria is an odd mix of old traditions and modern technology and tactics. Eiria has always been clandestine in nature. We rely on that and our Diplomatic services to keep us out of trouble."

”Xiomerans, by contrast, don’t tend to be very clandestine. We have always relied on being scarier than the other guy to deter people,” the Crown Prince replied wryly. “That may be why ASI and its allies are great at overt actions but fairly lousy at covert ones.”

"Interesting. Eiria's clandestine nature is almost overlooked, because our diplomats paint the picture of an innocent, 'Bleeding Heart', moralistic Democracy. Maybe it's better that way, though. If our covert capabilities were revealed, I don't think our enemies would be able to trust anything they drink." Rouchard said with a playful wink.

”I am perfectly fine with keeping those capabilities secret for now,” Texōccoatl laughed. “We may need use of them again. Please let the Lancasters, the Minister of Defense and Senator Dukov know that I hope they remain safe and well. And hopefully, I will recover quickly myself, because I intend to return the favor to Xochiuhue. Soon.”

"I'm sure my boss will be glad to hear that. May I ask how you intend to return the favor, so Eiria can assist you?"

”I intend to be a bit more overt in my displeasure than Xochiuhue was. An air-to-ground missile aimed at his motorcade some day would convey the message, I think,” Texōccoatl said calmly.

"....That would certainly make a message clear."

Texōccoatl’s answering grin was all the response needed.

[Xiomera]

July 28th
Xiomeran Military District
75 miles north of Xochiatipan

Emperor Xochiuhue leaned back in the seat of his armored limousine and smiled. He had enjoyed his visit to Xochiatipan immensely.

At the square where people had led a mass protest just weeks before against his rule, the Emperor had appeared with General Xōchhuitl and local officials. In a strident speech to the crowd, with an array of massed soldiers in front of him, he had denounced the "uprising" and praised the military for bringing Xochiatipan back under control. He had also declared that he intended to turn the Xiomeran Empire to a state of "total war" against those opposed to the country, and his reign, which he naturally equated as being the same thing. Thoroughly convinced that he had cowed the resistance in Xochiatipan, the Emperor was now enjoying the comfort of his motorcade back to Tlālacuetztla. Taking a sip of wine, he exchanged friendly banter with General Xōchhuitl.

The Emperor had no idea that eyes were on him. The Xiomeran fleet that had defected to the Crown Prince's government had packed its usual arsenal of aircraft. But it also carried two special planes that no one outside of the fleet had been informed of.

The Zitepex stealth bomber was the most secret, and most advanced, plane in the Xiomeran arsenal. It was based on the Itlanan stealth air superiority fighter, and could be equipped with a variety of missiles and bombs. For this mission, the two bombers had been equipped with several standoff air-launched cruise missiles. Their pilots had managed to evade Xiomeran air defenses - knowing better than anyone else how those air defenses worked helped.

Gliding high overhead, the two bombers noted the location and speed of the Emperor's motorcade from 230 miles away. "Target is acquired, do we have permission to fire?" the lead pilot said calmly into his radio.

Back at her command station with the 1st Fleet, Admiral Techilō smiled. "You're a go to launch. Fire at will."

Down on the ground, the Emperor and General Xōchhuitl were chatting amiably. The General looked out of the window of the limousine, just in time to see the lead vehicle of the motorcade explode. "Shit!" the General shouted, grabbing for the command phone mounted on the armrest of his chair. "Xōchhuitl, what's happening?" the Emperor demanded, turning his head to look out the other window. The explosion of the vehicle bringing up the rear of his motorcade made it clear to Xochiuhue just what, exactly, was happening.

Another explosion directly in front of the Imperial limousine made it rise into the air. Turning desperately to grab onto anything solid he could, Xochiuhue turned towards the General. Shattering glass framed the General's face, as the limousine tilted and fell back to earth. Then everything turned dark, and the Emperor fell into silence.

---

Xochiuhue's next memory was of an Army medic tending to him, and soldiers clustered around him as he lay on the ground. "What....where...." Xochiuhue said, trying to sit up.

"Your Majesty, please lie still. You suffered some head and body injuries, but nothing long-term or serious. You will be disoriented for a while, though," the medic said, gently lowering the Emperor back to the ground.

"Who is responsible for this? Where is General Xōchhuitl? I need him to find out who did this...." the Emperor said.

The medic sighed. "Your Majesty, I am sorry....General Xōchhuitl is dead."

Xochiuhue laid back on the ground, his face taut with pain - and anger.

---

Laeralsford
Five hours later

"We had a partial success, your Majesty. From our spy reports, we confirmed that General Xōchhuitl is dead. But Xochiuhue escaped." General Tlanexchel handed Texōccoatl an after-action report, The Crown Prince scanned it soberly. This won't bring you back, Nōlinyauh. But it's revenge, at least. Texōccoatl scanned the report further: one of the Zitepex pilots managed to make it back to the fleet, but the other one was shot down over Xochiatipan. Revenge is pretty damn expensive, the Crown Prince thought, regretting the loss of the pilot as much as that of the Secretary.

"I know what you're thinking, sir," Tlanexchel said. "But the pilot we lost would have been honored to give his life in battle, as we all are. And it's a worthy cost to show that bastard Xochiuhue that we can take one of his people for every one of ours he takes from us, like the Secretary."

"We needed to make that point. But I am still allowed to feel disgust at myself for spending the life of one of my soldiers to make that point," the Crown Prince said, looking at Tlanexchel.

"If you didn't care about that sort of thing, sir, you'd be no better than Xochiuhue, and we wouldn't be following you," the General replied calmly. After a moment, Texōccoatl nodded.


[box]Press Release from the Office of Crown Prince Texōccoatl
28 June 2020

On 14 July, agents of the Agency for Security and Intelligence (ASI) attempted to assassinate Crown Prince Texōccoatl and other officials of the legitimate Xiomeran government in exile, in an attack on our headquarters in Laeralsford. During this attack, while attempting to protect the Crown Prince, Secretary of State Nōlinyauh gave his life. The Secretary, throughout a long and distinguished career, represented Xiomera and its people with distinction and honor. The final act of his service was the ultimate expression of that honor. He cannot be replaced, and will be greatly missed.

In response to this attack on a sovereign, if temporary, facility of the legitimate Xiomeran government, and this attack on the head of that government and other officials of that government, it was determined that a forceful response was needed. In accordance with that, the Crown Prince gave authorization to loyalist Xiomeran forces to perform a surgical strike upon the motorcade of the false Emperor on 28 June, north of the city of Xochiatipan. Two fighters launched from the 1st Fleet performed this strike by launching standoff cruise missiles at his motorcade. While reports indicate that the false Emperor Xochiuhue survived the attack, we have been able to confirm that the original instigator of the military coup that overthrew Empress Yauhmi, General Xōchhuitl, was eliminated as a result of the strike.

Through this decisive action, we have made clear both our determination, and our ability, to both protect the legitimate Xiomeran government and to respond to any aggressive actions against it. As Emperor Xochiuhue recovers from his injuries, and no doubt receives advice from Security Secretary Calhualyana, who most likely planned the attempt to assassinate the Crown Prince and other officials of this government, we would advise both of them to be very mindful. We can strike back in kind, and will, whenever and wherever circumstances warrant it.

May the gods and goddesses continue to watch over the true government of Xiomera, and the people of Xiomera.

[signed] Crown Prince Texōccoatl
[signed] Brigadier General Tlanexchel, Defense Secretary[/box]

[Democratic Republic Of Eiria]

(Joint Post with Xiomera)
Somewhere in the Nereus Sea

Chief Admiral Circè stood on the main deck of the Triton, waiting for the Xiomeran command delegation to cross from the ship alongside them. A meeting between Admirals was overdue, and Circè was pleased that Admiral Techilō agreed. She had left the Bridge in the trusted hands of Captain Farrasei, who has command of the Triton when it isn't designated as a flagship. Farrasei was disappointed on missing the command meeting, but was happy to actually be active, since Circè had overseen the operations near Xiomera's territory since they began.

Admiral Techilō, for her part, was also looking forward to the meeting. She had left the First Empress, the flagship of the First Fleet, in the capable hands of the carrier’s own captain, Xipal. She had Xōchlin, the Jaguar Warrior who had taken over command of the expeditionary force attached to the fleet, accompany her to the meeting.

The two of them, along with a ceremonial honor guard of two Jaguar Warriors, landed on the Triton using the Axtexoc transport helicopter attached to the fleet. The Admiral and the other Xiomerans exited the helicopter, waiting for their hosts to greet them.

Circè walked into the helipad as the helicopter's blades slowed to a halt, followed by assorted officers and guards of her own. She gave a shallow, cordial bow to the Xiomeran Admiral. "Welcome aboard, Admiral Techilō. It's a pleasure to meet you in person."

”Thank you for the welcome, Admiral Circè. It’s great to meet you as well,” Techilō replied with a smile, as the two Jaguar Warriors saluted Circè. “I’m pleased to be here. I think this is the first time a Xiomeran admiral has been aboard an Eirian flagship.”

"Yes, it certainly is a momentous occasion, warranted by even more extreme circumstances. Well, if you would follow me, I can take you to the Command Meeting Room." She walked at a decent pace to a nearby entrance. One of her guards opened the bulkhead in front of her, and Circè led the Xiomerans up a flight of stairs, any lower officers dodging out of their path. She brought them inside a room more formal than the rest of the ship, with a wooden table surrounded by chairs and walls painted in a light blue. "Take a seat wherever you'd like."

Techilō and the rest of her team seated themselves. “I’m glad we have a chance to talk. The recent operation that we conducted against Xochiuhue will probably result in some kind of retaliatory response from our own Navy. I’m honestly hoping to convince more of them to change sides to our side, but in the meantime, it is only fair to warn you. We don’t expect you to put yourselves at more risk on our account.”

"Nonsense. Do you think we've been doing operations with you guys just to chicken out when something happens? I have a feeling the sailors would get unruly if we didn't join you in the case of an attack. Plus, the folks in charge have made our duty clear. An attack on your forces is an attack on ours." She sighed. "Some of the sailors are just so keen on risking their lives. But there is no way this fleet will abandon yours, I can reassure you."

Techilō smiled in relief. “I’m glad to hear that. Those of us who have remained true and loyal to Xiomera are very glad to have friends out there willing to help. We are not anticipating that Xochiuhue will send another fleet out after us - he is likely conserving his naval strength in the event of an invasion. But he will probably send submarines to try to hit some of our capital ships. ASW sweeps will be essential to protect the fleets.”

"I'll have our ships work on increasing the frequency of sweeps. If you wish, I believe there are a few submarines docked at northern posts that we can call up, as well as the EIS Arion, a Perseus-class Aircraft Carrier, all available for deployment if necessary." Circè adjusted her pinned insignia, five silver Eirian Military stars linked together with thin bars supporting the symbol of the navy. "I will have to give notice to the Senate if an active war is declared or a hostile action is taken."

”That is perfectly understandable,” Techilō replied. “I would probably be ready to make that call. Xochiuhue won’t target foreign warships immediately, but once you try to block any attacks on my fleet, the sub captains will undoubtedly have instructions to respond accordingly.”

"Naturally. Would you like those submarines called up?."

”Yes....I think they will be important to have, to protect both your ships and mine,” Techilō said. “I was also asked by our new Defense Secretary to recommend to you that your government contact the appropriate officials in Laeral, as we are coordinating some of our future strategies with them.”

"Of Course. We would be delighted with their assistance. Will you be needing Air support along with Naval support? We can call up the Arion, and I can contact Chief General Jansons of the Air Force if necessary."

I never turn down air support,” Techilō said, her smile growing. “If you can commit additional resources to help us, we would be highly appreciative. We will probably need the help. Our own Air Force is quite competent - although I think their support for Xochiuhue will waver quickly.”

"Let's hope so. Tyrants have a way of repelling their allies. Especially if their only allies are among their own people." Circè turned to one of her officers, a Senior Lieutenant. "Tell Captain Farrasei to contact Levourard Naval Base and request the Arion and as many subs as possible be placed under my command." The Lieutenant asked a question in Eirian, eyeing the Xiomerans. Circè answered curtly in the same language, and the officer left for the Bridge.

Techilō noted the brief conversation between Circè and the other officer with curiosity, but chose not to comment on it. We need friends right now, better not to offend anyone with too many questions, she thought. “I am excited to be working with you. Eiria and Xiomera haven’t worked together on a military goal since....well, since the Bjeorg conflict.”

"I suppose it has been that long. Especially with Darrin's regime. We weren't exactly the kind to have decent enough relations to have a joint goal back then. But now, we've found a common cause to fight for. And although I despise the situation that is causing this common ground, it's still helping entrench ties between our nations."

”That is true. And once we’ve defeated Xochiuhue and the junta together, I imagine that there will be more opportunities for our nations to work together. But for now, I hope for a speedy victory.”

"So do I. Do you have anything else that you wish to discuss or bring to my attention?"

”Not at present, except for this.” Techilō handed Circè a document. “This has instructions on how to access a radio channel and data link that we have set up to maintain speedy communications between our fleets. You can reach my command center at any time via these links.”

The Eirian Admiral accepted the document and looked it over quick. "Thank you, Admiral. I hope that our cooperation helps restore your government and your nation back to glory."

”I have no doubt that it will,” Techilō replied.

[Xiomera]

Chuaztlapoc
August 1st
8:45 am XST

The city of Chuaztlapoc was surrounded. But not by an enemy.

As anger grew throughout Xiomera at the iron-fisted grip of Xochiuhue, nowhere was the anger more surging than in the western half of the Empire. The people of the western half of the Empire had watched as the Xiomeran military, increasingly backed by Shuellian mercenaries, rounded people up and placed them in camps. They had watched as the government imposed martial law and placed soldiers and police on the streets of their cities, demanding compliance with the authoritarian mandate from Tlālacuetztla. They had watched friends and loved ones being yanked off the streets and arrested. They had watched the increasingly strident and angry propaganda and rhetoric on their airwaves and their 'net connections, praising the Emperor and the government that were committing all these acts.

For many of them, the time for watching had ended.

Around Chuaztlapoc, various camps had begun to form. Necatli, Itotemoc and Tepiltzin who had fled from the Imperial onslaught in their homelands. Disbanded Civil Guard units, many of them bringing their hardware with them. Xiomeran dissidents, ready to give their lives. Most of them felt it was a hopeless cause. Xochiuhue held the Obsidian Throne, and the government, police and military were obeying him. Many of those gathering at Chuaztlapoc had already seen, all too well, the power that could be brought to bear against them. But even without hope, they were still ready to fight. For a Xiomera they had once known, or perhaps for one they only hoped could exist someday.

Gathered around the city of the Shorn Ones, the last site of organized resistance against the new Emperor, they set up their camps, shored up their defenses, and prepared themselves to fight. Even if it was hopeless.

At the edge of the perimeter around the city, a former commander of the Zoyuca Civil Guard named Challcayo was entrenched with his detachment of Guards. "Someone's coming up the road, sir," his lookout shouted to him. "It's a large force - might even be battalion sized."

Challcayo quickly leaped to his feet. "Get ready to fire!" he shouted, as his soldiers moved into position. "Contact the advancing unit - demand they state their identity and intentions," he told his radio man. "And alert the central command at Chuaztlapoc that the city may be under attack."

As the Guards tensely waited, the radio man finally turned back to Challcayo. "They identify as the 21st Battalion of the Army, sir. They claim they have defected from the government and are coming here to help us." Challcayo thought quickly. "Let them advance. But if they show the slightest sign of being hostile, open fire. I don't care if they're the damned Army or not," he ordered his troops.

With their fingers on their triggers, the Zoyuca Guards waited as the sound of approaching military vehicles rose. They could see the line of advancing APCs, tanks and trucks now. In the lead of the advancing battalion was a single command vehicle. The line of vehicles stopped in front of the perimeter, and the hatch of the command vehicle opened. Two people stepped out, raising their hands in the air to show they had no weapons in hand. As the Zoyuca Guards watched with a mixture of tension, curiosity and nervousness, the two walked around to the back of the command vehicle.

Major Huatli and Sergeant Major Atezhuatl walked to the back of the command APC, hands in the air. "No one's shot us yet, that's a good sign," Atezhuatl said cheerfully. Huatli scowled, giving him a sidewise look, before turning to face the Guards. "We've come here to help in the defense of Chuaztlapoc," she shouted.

"So you say," Challcayo shouted back. "The Army's been backing Xochiuhue this whole time though. You're going to have to do a lot more to convince me."

"Will you take my word for it, Guardsman, if you won't take the Major's word?" another voice echoed. Atezhuatl had come back to stand next to Huatli, helping the woman speaking to walk forward from the back hatch of the APC. Challcayo stood speechless, in shock, as Huatli did her best to keep a huge smile from breaking out on her face. "Empress? Is it really you?" Challcayo finally said, his rifle dropping down to his side.

"It is, the last time I checked," Yauhmi said. After being in that damn torture cell, I did wonder sometimes, she thought, before raising her head to look at Challcayo. "Would you be so kind as to escort us to the city?"

"Yes ma'am! I mean, Empress....I mean, your Majesty...shit!" Challcayo said, unaccustomed to being so flustered. The Empress smiled in response, walking forward with Atezhuatl's help to gently pat Challcayo on the shoulder. "It's quite allright, formality isn't essential right now," the Empress said. Challcayo nodded, quickly turning to his soldiers. "Get a truck up here!" he shouted. As a military truck arrived, Challcayo helped Huatli and Atezhuatl place the Empress inside.

As the truck rolled down the main road into Chuaztlapoc, Yauhmi was clearly seated where she could be seen. As she passed the defensive lines around the city, people began to whisper, then to shout. "It's the Empress! She's alive! She's here!" people began to yell. As the truck continued to Chuaztlapoc, those that had come to defend the city began to cheer, standing up and raising their weapons in the air. Yauhmi managed to wave to them, despite the pain she was still in.

Challcayo had radioed ahead to Chuaztlapoc that they were arriving, and the Shorn Ones were themselves rushing to meet the arrivals, Etlahuatzitl in the lead. As the 21st Battalion rolled into the central plaza, the elder Shorn Ones were standing on the steps of the Hall of Chuaztlapoc waiting. Atezhuatl helped Yauhmi climb down from the truck, as Huatli and Challcayo stood next to them. The elder Shorn Ones bowed, led by Etlahuatzitl. "Your Majesty, thank the gods and goddesses that you're alive. We are here to serve and protect you, as always," Etlahuatzitl said.

"I am very lucky for that - for all of you who are here to defend this city, and the true heart of Xiomera," Yauhmi replied, giving her own short bow of respect to Etlahuatzitl. "I couldn't let myself die when so many of you were willing to give so much to defend our country and its future. We have much to do. Do you have a place where I can make a video recording?"

Etlahuatzitl seemed surprised. "We do, your Majesty, but surely you would like to rest or recover a bit before taking on those duties?"

"I can rest later. Right now, we're in the fight of our lives. No one gets to rest - not even me," Yauhmi replied. "I may need a bit more help than I used to, though. I hope you don't mind propping up this old lady for a bit longer, Atezhuatl?" Yauhmi looked at the Sergeant Major helping her walk with some of her old wit returning.

"I am honored to be your arm as long as needed, your Majesty. And your shield, if need be," Atezhuatl replied.

Etlahuatzitl nodded approvingly at Huatli and Atezhuatl. "This way," she said, leading the other three of them to a smaller building near the great hall. The building had been converted to a media center, where anti-Xochiuhue propaganda and messages for the Xiomeran resistance and the wider world were generated. The three of them were led to a small room that was used for recording video segments, set up much like a news studio. As Yauhmi was set up to begin recording, one of the producers coughed slightly. "Your Majesty, with respect, would you like us to have someone do some makeup for you, or perhaps some other ways to cover....." his voice trailed off as he looked at the bruises and injuries that Yauhmi still bore.

"No. I want the Xiomeran people - and the world - to see what they did to me," Yauhmi replied flatly. The producer gulped and nodded, running off to busy himself with something other than the scars of a tortured Empress.

As the recording began, Yauhmi turned to the camera. "Greetings to the Xiomeran people, and to anyone else who may be able to see this video," she said calmly. "I am Empress Yauhmi of the Xiomeran Empire. I am recording this brief message to show the world that I am still very much alive. Not uninjured," Yauhmi added with a gesture towards her face, "but I am still here. A brave unit of the Imperial Army rescued me from an ASI site where I was detained, and tortured, on the orders of Security Secretary Calhualyana. I am recording this message now to clarify some things. The usurper government claims that I abdicated my throne - that is a lie. They also claim that I committed crimes that made me unfit to be Empress - that is also a lie. Worst of all, they claim the Mandate of Huītzilōpōchtli, and that they are the legitimate rulers of Xiomera - and that is such a blatant lie that I am surprised their tongues haven't fallen off."

Yauhmi coughed slightly, before continuing. "Despite what the usurpers in Tlālacuetztla may claim, I am still the Empress of Xiomera. I have been informed that my son, Texōccoatl, has formed a government in exile. The government that he has started, in my name, is the true and legitimate government of Xiomera, the only one with the mandate to lead this country. I hope to speak with my son soon, and ensure that this government continues to have the support of true and loyal Xiomerans, and our friends abroad. But for now, I hereby declare that Chuaztlapoc is the temporary capital of Xiomera, as long as this crisis lasts. Anyone in Tlālacuetztla claiming to have the authority to issue orders, promulgate laws, or make demands - well, they simply don't anymore."

"I have one last message, for Xochiuhue, the son of Xolōtl. I will not call you Emperor. My husband was an Emperor. He deserved that title. You do not. But you're squatting in my house. You have a chance to stop doing that, and save yourself. But if you insist on trying to cling to power, sooner or later, we will come to the Palace of Flowers and evict you. By we, I mean the Xiomeran people, of which my son and I are part. You have a choice now, son of Xolōtl: choose wisely."

As the recording ended, Yauhmi looked up at Etlahuatzitl, Huatli and Atezhuatl. "Did that sound confident?" she asked. "Very much so, your Majesty," Huatli said, as the other two nodded approvingly. "I hope so. Because we're going to need every bit of confidence we can get over the next few weeks," Yauhmi replied. "Things are about to get very ugly here. I fear I may have placed a target on this city."

Etlahuatzitl shook her head. "We were already a target. But before you came back, your Majesty, the people out there had no hope. Now they do. And that will give us the strength we need to win. The armies of Xochiuhue fight out of fear of him. We fight out of hope, and for what is right. We already have the upper hand."

The video that Yauhmi recorded was quickly put together and the many hackers working for the Xiomeran resistance began spreading it around the 'net - much to the consternation of the ASI and ISTC teams in Tlilotl'pac whose job was to prevent that. It was also sent to the Eirian and Legionite hackers working on behalf of the resistance. The video quickly went viral - and even the much-vaunted Xiomeran firewall had no chance at stopping it.

---

Tlālacuetztla
2:45 pm XST

Emperor Xochiuhue calmly closed the laptop which he had used to watch the video. He then slammed his fist on top of it; the sound of splintering plastic and cracking glass echoed in the very silent air. A servant hastily took the laptop away, as the Emperor sat up in his bed. He was recovering from his injuries quickly, but the discomfort of it all was not helping his already irascible temper. Neither was what he had just watched.

"This is still something we can handle," Calhualyana said as the Emperor glared coldly at her. "We can send another ASI team into Chuaztlapoc after Yauhmi - "

"You mean, like the ASI team that did such a stellar job in Laeral?" Xochiuhue said. "We still eliminated Nōlinyauh, that was a major success," Calhualyana replied.

"I wanted Texōccoatl dead. That was their job. I don't give a damn about some old fucking bureaucrat. I needed Texōccoatl dead. You failed. And you failed to keep Yauhmi imprisoned, and you failed to kill her as I ordered. And now she is free, and poses a huge risk to us. And you want me to believe that eliminating that doddering old bastard Nōlinyauh was a victory? I got blown up. By. A. Missile," Xochiuhue grated, leaning forward in anger. "And now Xōchhuitl is dead. You are utterly useless. Get out of my sight."

Calhualyana stared at Xochiuhue for a moment, before turning on her heel and walking out.

With Xōchhuitl's death, General Zinahue, the next in line, had taken over as the head of the Army and the General Staff. The Emperor turned to Zinahue. "Mobilize the Army of the West. I want Chuaztlapoc leveled to the ground. Leave no one alive. Leave no building standing. Use the damned Air Force too, we may as well get some use out of their damned expensive planes. I am not letting Yauhmi escape again."

Chuaztlapoc is one of the most important cultural and religious centers in Xiomera, second only to Tlālacuetztla. No Xiomeran military commander with even half a sense of decency or respect would have ever followed such a disastrous order. General Xōchhuitl would not have.

But General Xōchhuitl was dead.

Zinahue saluted his Emperor, and left to carry out his orders.

---

Château de Clamur, Neidong, Laeral
3:30 pm XST

Texōccoatl took a few experimental steps. He had made a marked recovery from the tlumala poison, and Brigadier General Tlanexchel nodded approvingly. "You'll be back to normal within a few days. It's a good thing I didn't let you go slack on your conditioning and exercise."

The Crown Prince snorted. "When have I ever gone slack, Tlanexchel?"

"Not often, admittedly," the Jaguar Warrior said. "But you have your moments, Crown Prince."

Texōccoatl was about to issue a bantering reply when the sound of someone shouting echoed down the hall. "Oh for fuck's sake, not again," Tlanexchel murmured, reaching for his pistol, thinking it was another attack. Texōccoatl stopped him. "I recognize that voice, it's Chuaru," the Crown Prince said, naming his personal assistant.

Chuaru burst into the room, breathing heavily as if he had been running. ".....alive!" he gasped, practically falling onto the desk of the Crown Prince. He began pulling something up on the computer, as Tlanexchel grimaced. "What are you going on about, Chuaru? Why are you shambling in here like this?" the General demanded.

"She's alive! Watch this," Chuaru replied, pulling up a Milintican news site and loading a video. As the video played, Tlanexchel swallowed the reprimand he was about to give Chuaru. He watched, silently. Texōccoatl began watching as well. After a moment, he fell into the chair at his desk, stunned. As the video finished, Tlanexchel broke the silence first. "The Empress. She's alive. I can't believe what they did to her.....but she's alive."

"That's what I was trying to tell you," Chuaru said plaintively.

Texōccoatl stared at the screen. After a moment, he clicked to replay the video. A huge smile broke across his face. "She's alive," he breathed. His expression fell after a moment. "But Mother....what are you doing?" he said softly.

"I don't understand. Isn't this a good thing?" Tlanexchel said.

"No. It's not. If she escaped prison, she could have gone into hiding or somehow fled abroad. Now Xochiuhue knows where she is. And he still controls most of the Army and Air Force. He will destroy Chuaztlapoc. And we can't get there fast enough to stop him." Texōccoatl slammed the desk in frustration. "Is she trying to martyr herself?"

"I don't think so, sir," Tlanexchel said after a moment. "I think that, in her own usual inimitable way, the Empress is trying to force everyone's hand."

Texōccoatl sighed. "This video will certainly accomplish that. The question is....what the hell do we do now?"

[Lauchenoiria]

Alvarez’s Office
1st August 2020, 8am LCT (3pm XST, 6am mean time)

Josephine Alvarez was putting the finishing touches to the light make-up she wore before leaving her residence for her office. Her bag was resting on a side table in the hall next to a potted plant and an old-fashioned telephone that was mostly for show, as she peered in the mirror adjusting the lip balm she’d smudged when sneaking a last-minute biscuit before leaving the house.

She was just about finished, when a frantic knocking came at the door. Her security would’ve been standing guard outside so if someone had been let through, they would be safe. She sighed, dropped the lip balm into her bag and zipped it shut, then headed for the front door.

“I’m ready, the session isn’t due to start for another hour, we needn’t rush,” she told her aide Lidia as she opened the door.

“This isn’t about Parliament,” said Lidia, who pushed past her into her house and walked down the hallway towards the living room, “you need to see this video right now.”

Curious, and rather alarmed, Alvarez nodded to one of the security guards and followed Lidia back to her own living room, after shutting the door. Lidia was kneeling on the floor, hooking a cable between her tablet and the TV, ready to play a video. Alvarez sat down, sighing slightly. Her life and her job were more complicated than she had anticipated they ever would be, and she had a bad feeling whatever this video was would complicate matters even further.

Alvarez did not speak the language that the woman on the screen was talking in, but she didn’t need to. Quite aside from the English subtitles, the picture told her all she needed to know. Empress Yauhmi was alive.

They sat in silence until the end of the video, when Lidia paused it and looked up at Josephine. Alvarez, very calmly, stood up, and walked out of the room, through an adjoining door to her kitchen, opened the fridge, unscrewed the lid of half-full bottle of wine sitting next to her milk, raised it to her lips, and gulped down several large quantities. She then screwed the lid back on, returned the wine to the fridge, and walked back, gesturing for Lidia to follow her to the car.

“Ma’am?” Lidia asked warily once they were inside. “Are you okay?”

“Contact the Drug Investigation Squad, have them go to the homes of the WOE leaders and their little communes in Usera. They might not be breaking the law in volunteering in Xiomera but they’re breaking other laws. And step up checks at the ports, we don’t want any illegal weapons shipments leaving the country.”

“Prime Minister…” Lidia began reluctantly.

“Don’t. You’re going to try and get me to feel sympathy for her because of how they treated her. Yes, I do. On a personal level, what she went through, nobody should go through. But on a national security level, we are now faced with a war where regardless of the victor, the victor will be hostile to us. We cannot have Lauchenoirian citizens going there.”

“Ma’am, we can’t just arrest all of WOE on drug charges, there will be an uprising.”

“We don’t need to. I need Veronica Penners again. She will get me their documents, we will discover who was going to volunteer and put a stop to them going.”

“Ma’am, you rely too much on that girl. A foreign spy.”

“Call Penners. Call DIS. Call the port authorities. That is an order, Lidia. We will stop the WOE volunteers before they drag us into another war.”

“Yes, ma’am,” replied Lidia, and turned away, glancing at Alvarez disapprovingly out of the corner of her eye.

[Legionas]

Taheton 1
Skies over Northern Legionas

1st August 2020 6:32 PM, WLT (8:32 PM, XST)

Taheton 1 cruised at 40,000 Feet, transporting the Prime Minister back to Aunistria. Following a long day of duties and ceremonies in Lecmond culminating in the Groundbreaking of Lecmond Waterfront, Moretti had earned an evening of relaxation. The Prime Minister relaxed in his chair, enjoying the Final of the Royal Cup. His team, FC. Ordstead had finally made it to the finals of the tournament for the first time in its history, and he definitely could not miss history being made. As the game reached it's closing minutes, his team up by a solitary goal, courtesy of new signing Marcus Zervas, he saw his personal aide and press secretary advance towards him, with worried demeanors. He muted the sound on the onboard entertainment screen and turned towards them.

"Mr Moretti, you need to see this now." Eugene Adruzza, his press secretary said while placing his laptop on the table in front of him.

He could see Yauhmi, a face he definitely had not seen in a while. He nevertheless avoided commenting and watched the video.

Moretti sat in silence, watching the video. Others in the cabin stopped what they were doing and joined the trio, forcing Adruzza to connect the laptop to the Entertainment system to allow everyone to see. On the video's completion, Moretti was visibly disturbed, speechless.

"Sir what's wrong?" His personal secretary asked.

To this he muttered, "Get Texōccoatl on the phone, now!"

[Xiomera]

(Joint post with [nation]Legionas[/nation])

August 1st

Nicholas Moretti paced the cabin, thoughts flooding his mind at an almost uncontrollable speed. He knew, and everyone else on that plane knew, that Legionas must try and act, in the defense of Texōccoatl and Yauhmi, in the defense of peace for East Caxcana and her people. Nobody wanted a conflict, yet everyone mentally prepared themselves for the worst. Moretti, unsure of what to do, gauged the emotion in the cabin. He could feel the gaze of everyone else on that plane, they pierced his body, scanning his thoughts, picking out his intents. A jolt threw him off balance, making him mutter curses under his breath. He began to feel nauseous, the plane had entered a rough patch of turbulence. He felt as if his mind had been scrambled, he needed to sit down. He moved over to the bar and poured himself a glass of Eirian Liquor, downing it without second thought. He felt his mind at ease for a second, allowing him to steel himself adequately. He downed another glass, rose and loosened his tie. This small gesture subconsciously signaled that he was about to deal with a potentially dangerous situation. The deck was definitely stacked against Texōccoatl and Yauhmi, that was for sure, and only the Most High could save them. Moretti knew of the wrath of Xochiuhue, he knew that extreme force was about to be laid down, and that it would be administered without mercy upon Chuaztlapoc. He, nevertheless, knew what he must do. He waited anxiously as contact with Texōccoatl was being established.

Texōccoatl was in the midst of an emergency meeting with Brigadier General Tlanexchel and the members of his acting Cabinet when the call came through. He quickly motioned everyone to silence and took the call. “This is Texōccoatl. Thank you for calling me, Prime Minister. I’m sorry for the delay in taking the call, but things are a bit hectic here as you might expect.”

Moretti paused for a second, the deafening silence of the cabin reassuring him. "Yes, definitely. I can't imagine the stress you are going through at the moment, but hopefully I can offer some aid to you on behalf of His Majesty, and the rest of the Kingdom. I'd first like to offer my sympathies over what you and your mother have had to go through during these troubling times. I hope you are doing well."

”I am doing as well as can be expected, thank you for asking. I’m recovering well from the recent attempt on my life, thankfully, and should be back to normal soon. My mother....clearly has not fared as well,” Texōccoatl said in a tone of voice that did not bode well for those who had mistreated her. “But I know she will be grateful for your support as well.”

Moretti listened while watching as his aides frantically prepared digital maps of Xiomera, the adjacent seas as well as arranging information on the Junta's influential figures on a series of electronic devices to be at Moretti's disposal. The Prime Minister shifted his posture on hearing the subtle yet noticeable change of tone in Texoccoatl's voice. The man definitely had gone through hell, along with his mother who had definitely been through some serious shit. "Thank goodness you survived, you and your mother. With that being said, I understand the serious danger your mother is in at the moment." Moretti looked back at his aide-de-camp who had been receiving information of troop movements in Xiomera. A substantial force was definitely on the move, towards Yauhmi. A laptop was placed close to the Prime Minister, of which he scanned the images displayed. "I'm afraid to inform you that what seems to be a very large force advancing towards Chuaztlapoc. Time is of the essence it seems, and I on behalf of the Kingdom of Legionas would like to lend a hand in armed suppo..." He was distracted by a dispatch from the Admiralty which was placed in front of him, disclosing the location of the Third Fleet, returning to base following a series of naval exercises in the Tenebric Ocean, near the Indigo Islands. The fleet was west of Cenotillo Island, in range of the Xiomeran mainland. "We would be willing to dedicate as many resources as you would require, in the event of a conflict. Evacuation of your mother is also possible at the moment, with our Third Fleet within range of her location." Moretti motioned for contact with Admiral Gustavsson to be made with haste as he unbuttoned his collar button.

”This is a very welcome offer, and I would be happy to accept on behalf of our government. I will say, however, that I doubt my mother will evacuate. She has chosen to make her stand at Chuaztlapoc for a reason. Besides, running away isn’t her style.” Texōccoatl was looking at his own maps and information as the cabinet hastily prepared their own plans for him. “What would be most helpful would be airstrikes in support of the forces that are currently in position trying to defend Chuaztlapoc. There are people on the ground ready to fight, and the addition of the battalion that defected and the Civil Guard units will help. But they have no substantial air power and only limited air defenses.”

An aide brought forth a map of Chuaztlapoc, showing the city and its adjacent suburbs. Moretti moved forward, his eyes engrossed in the study of the map. It reminded him of his time in the Air Force, studying detailed maps with his squad mates before takeoff. He swallowed his saliva, this truly was a war. A war of liberation. Moretti began estimating potential casualties, and winced. He knew however that blood must be spilt in the battle against a tyrant. Another piece of information was passed to him, one infantry division as well as two motorized and one armored batalions were in the Zarmeza Islands, participating in biannual war games. "Yes, I believe we can aid in the skies. We also can aid on land, with a few thousand troops in position at the border islands."

”The troops you have in position could serve as a diversionary tactic, to divert some of the forces in western Xiomera from any assault on Chuaztlapoc.” Texōccoatl was thinking quickly as he looked at his maps. “Moving then into position as if they were about to advance into the border islands or western Xiomera could divert substantial numbers of the forces Xochiuhue was planning to send there.”

"I will create contact with Army Command as soon as I can." he said while making eye contact with his press secretary who stumbled, dropping his laptop and smashing the screen. Moretti sighed and continued his study of maps and information. A thought soon crossed his mind, "When will you be returning to Xiomera, Texōccoatl?"

”The timetable for that, under the circumstances, will need to be greatly accelerated.” Texōccoatl sighed. “We hadn’t planned to mount our offensive operations for several weeks yet. But best-laid plans, and all that.” The Crown Prince paused. “I should bring you up to speed on what our plans are. With support from friendly nations, we had planned to force a landing at the city of Zapotlán. The city sits atop the thin strip of land that connects Xiomera proper, in the east, to the rest of the Empire. Our plan was to cut the country in half and isolate Xochiuhue’s forces in the east. We think we can convince the people in the west to side with us.”

"I see, Zapotlán definitely would have been an exceptionable strategic target, and with probable aid from us as well as other allies of your government the plan could have worked. Fortunately enough, or rather unfortunately, your mother has been able to fast-forward events, especially with the news of Xochiuhue's injury. If we can move swiftly I am sure of our success and the reinstating of the rightful government." Moretti was distracted once again by the relative chaos that was unfolding in the cabin with aides rushing to get as much information as possible in the aid of Texōccoatl and his forces. Contact was also being established with naval, aerial and ground command, with streamlined uninterrupted information between Moretti and Texōccoatl's command center being paramount. Success was soon achieved with an open secure line to all Legionite Armed Forces Commands soon being established. "We have been able to create a channel between your command center and our armed forces command, Admiral Gustavsson, of the Third Fleet, has also been reached. I will have one of my aides confirm that the line is indeed operational. Is there anything else that myself or Force Command would need to know?"

”The very first thing: don’t get too close to the shoreline, at least not yet,” Texōccoatl said without hesitation. “There will be shore defenses present, but the bigger problem will be the XM-350-M. It’s a mobile anti-ship missile system we have, that can cripple or even sink warships. It has a range of up to 3000 miles, and being mobile, it’s damn hard to pin down.”

"If any anti-ship missile is fired at our ships, I will be forced to consider it an act of war." Moretti stated, much to the shock of his aides. His aide-de-camp nodded silently, knowing full well of the scale of a Legionite retaliation. He nevertheless relayed the information to Naval Command, stressing the need to avoid detection by Junta Shoreline Defenses. Back at Aerial Command, contact was being established with Space Command at Atraxes Island, where the White Hawk was being utilized for reconnaissance. A hastily formed file of the XM-350-M was being created, much to the chagrin of Moretti who wondered why information of the weapon was not already collected. "Our land forces are in position, Mr Moretti," Isaiah Thompson, his aide-de-camp said, while simultaneously handing him a file showing the force present at the border islands, around 56,000 men in total, with several hundred tanks, armored personnel carriers and artillery pieces. Lorstan Air Base was also at high alert, with around 100 or so jets ready to be scrambled at any time. "Our land forces are ready, hopefully they will serve as a fitting temporary distraction for Xochiuhue's forces."

”I believe that they will,” Texōccoatl replied, a bit stunned with how quickly things were moving, but pleased as well. He had been waiting in exile for long enough, and with Yauhmi free, he felt like they finally had a chance. “Contact Minister Errante and also contact Ms. Rouchard, we need to loop them into all of this,” the Crown Prince told his aides. They quickly picked up additional phone lines. “We still plan to proceed with our plan to move at Zapotlán. With Xochiuhue committing so many forces to Chuaztlapoc, he will be stretching his defenses thin. This will give us the perfect opportunity to strike.”

Moretti grinned, he had found a new appreciation for the Kingdom's innovative Strategic Mobilization Strategy. He also appreciated the relative ease of communication 40,000 feet above the ground, Taheton 1 quickly becoming his very own Mobile Command Center. "Sir, I have word from the Third Fleet. Recon jets have noted movement in several positions close to the shore. We don't have confirmation yet, but we are sure that the junta knows of our intentions." Moretti's grin faded, and his demeanor quickly became that of worry. He knew that the Third Fleet must avoid being the recipient of a direct strike by Xiomeran anti ship ordnance. "We need them to move further northwest, closer to, uhhh, farther away from Cenotillo and Manauia Island. Have Admiral Gustavsson adopt a holding position and await naval command's orders. "Mr Texōccoatl, how many troops will you be able to utilize on a landing at Zapotlán?"

”Between the troops that have defected to our side and the volunteers we have who have been training in Milintica, we have a good sized force available. The 1st Expeditionary Brigade and the International Legion form the core of our force. They’re either Jaguar Warriors or trained by Jaguar Warriors, so they are a formidable force. They number about 8500 in total. Then, we managed to convince the 17th Brigade of the Army, which was deployed to Vulkaria, to join us. They add another 5500 troops. So the formal military contingent is 14,000 in total.” Texōccoatl quickly looked through some numbers on a tablet. “We also have our volunteers - they’re not as well trained or equipped as regular military forces, of course, but they’re prepared as much as we can be under these constraints. They add another 5000 to our total. So, we have a total of 19,000 troops we can deploy at Zapotlán. We can definitely use some naval support as we land, but the 1st Fleet will be deployed as well to aid us.” Texōccoatl paused. “The forces currently defending Chuaztlapoc....are not quite as robust. We estimate there are about 2000 Shorn Ones, 2000 regular Army troops, and 6000 or so former Civil Guard soldiers there, as far as a formal military contingent. There are also volunteers there also - we estimate that in total there are 12,000 defenders in place at Chuaztlapoc.”

"The defenders of Chuaztlapoc are definitely small in number, and that is worrying. If they can assemble perimeter defenses such as anti tank ditches, destruction of roads and bridges leading up to the city as well as assemble ambush teams near the city, that could aid in the stalling of Xochiuhue’s forces. The forces that are attempting the landing at Zapotlán sound ideal, although they may encounter resistance since the city is a massive strategic target. I will have information of the defenses of Zapotlán confirmed via recon as soon as possible. We will also be able to supply around 84 ships in close air support if necessary." Moretti looked at one of his aides who knew of the hangar capacities of Orion and Chiron, the sister aircraft carriers of the Third Fleet. She confirmed his estimation, and he continued. "When the assault commences I'm sure we'll be able to coordinate everything. I believe the top priority plans are the defense of Chuaztlapoc?" Moretti asked.

”As much as it pains me to say this, the beachhead at Zapotlán has to take precedence over everything else,” Texōccoatl said after a moment. “If we miss this chance to break through, any future attempts will be far more costly and difficult. Our current plan is to stage the assault at Zapotlán while simultaneously providing air cover and fleet support as much as possible to the defenders at Chuaztlapoc. Your diversion on our western border, coupled with our attack at Zapotlán, will hopefully force Xochiuhue to redeploy his forces elsewhere and weaken his attack on Chuaztlapoc enough to give the defenders a fighting chance.” Texōccoatl’s voice was clearly saddened as he said this, but it was clear that he was making a tough choice.

"Attack sometimes is the best defense, let's hope this is one of those times. If we are to ensure that the assault on Zapotlán will pay dividends later on, we may also need the troops on the ground to disable as much infrastructure that Xochiuhue’s forces may be using. Things like disabling network lines that I'm sure pass through the city. Zapotlán must become a citadel as well, strong enough to hold Xochiuhue’s Eastern Forces." Moretti motioned for his personal secretary to pour him another glass of Eirian Liquor, his mind beginning to swirl once more, due in part to the stressful situation he was in. Taheton 1's captain, an experienced ex-Air Force Wing Commander, had adopted a holding pattern over the skies of Aunistria, allowing Moretti to aid in a civil war that was about to go hot. The cabin too had become as streamlined as possible to allow as much information as possible to be collected, analyzed, prepared and sent over to relevant parties. On the ground too, the situation was being discussed by the Minister of Defense, and the Legionite General Staff. If Legionas was to be attacked by Xochiuhue’s forces, 56,000 men were at the ready to pour into Huenya, with a further 250,000 troops being able to be mobilized and in position within 96 Hours. Direct war though, was not on the mind of Moretti, he knew this was not his fight. He, and the Kingdom of Legionas, were merely allies in a civil war that would forever scar East Caxcana.

Texōccoatl nodded, handing information over to his aides to disseminate and begin enacting instructions. “Disabling or taking over control of essential infrastructure will be our first priority. Fortifying Zapotlán and ensuring it can be held to fulfill the first phase of our plan will be highly important as well. If Zapotlán and Chuaztlapoc both are able to hold, it will demoralize the forces loyal to Xochiuhue and could even possibly spark upheaval within the ranks of the junta. We greatly appreciate any help you can provide with our plans.”

"We will definitely be able to aid, in any capacity that is required. Fortunately, communication channels between your command center and our force commands have been established and are operational. With most pressing issues prepared and out of the way, I believe we can complete this impromptu meeting." Moretti downed his glass of Eirian liquor and motioned for the table to be cleared. "The Kingdom of Legionas is with you in this fight, as an ally. We hope that by our combined firepower, we can defeat this pretender to your throne, and restore peace and harmony to Huenya!"

[Xiomera]

August 7th
Tacuitapa

Tlocacihe smiled as she bent down to tie Metili's shoes. "You really need to learn to tie them yourself," she chided her son gently. The boy laughed and ran off to play with his sister, Apalin, as his mother sighed. She stood up and began tidying up the living room; her two children had the tendency to rampage through the house like miniature tornadoes.

The sound of the door opening caused Tlocacihe to look up; her husband, Catoqui, had just walked in. He dropped his briefcase on the floor, and absentmindedly turned to hang his suit jacket on the coatrack. He missed, and the jacket fell on the floor. Catoqui didn't even notice; he walked to a nearby armchair and fell into it.

"Hard day at work today, hon?" Tlocacihe said, then noticed the drained look on his face. "Catoqui....what's wrong?"

"They laid me off," Catoqui said tonelessly. Tlocacihe paused; surely he was joking. Catoqui worked in a management position at Mizhua Corporation, one of the mammoth Xiomeran corporate juggernauts that was considered a five-star employer. Mizhua never laid anyone off. As Tlocacihe continued to stare, Catoqui shook his head. "Eighteen years I've worked for them, and they dropped this on me today without any warning. No severance, no money, nothing. They said they'd pay my last paycheck today, and that I could take a loan off my investment plan, not that the investment plan is worth anything right now thanks to the stock market tanking. They said they would call me back to work 'when the economy gets better'. Who are they kidding? It's not going to get any better, not anytime soon. Not when half the damn nations in the world have slapped sanctions on us....." Catoqui's voice trailed off for a moment. "We still have our savings, but that won't last forever...."

"What are we going to do?" Tlocacihe asked, her voice hollow.

"I don't know!" Catoqui shouted, then shook his head again at the look of shock on his wife's face. "Sorry. I'm sorry. I don't mean to yell...I just..."

"Kids, go play outside now, please," Tlocacihe said in a soft but firm tone. Metili and Apalin ran outside, closing the door, as Tlocacihe sat on the couch near her husband. After a moment, Catoqui sighed. "They're laying off thousands of people. Factory workers, managers, across the board cuts. Mizhua isn't the only company doing it, I've heard from dozens of friends already. Lohuā Licā, Coltec, Imperial Petroleum, Zacuetz, Coycē, Zalta, Cala Computer....they're calling it the Friday Massacre already on the 'net. Thousands of people being laid off, or just outright fired. I don't understand....This is Xiomera. This sort of thing doesn't happen here," Catoqui said in a bewildered tone.

"I guess it does, now," Tlocacihe said, shaking her own head. "But we'll get through this somehow. We have to, there's no other choice really."

"I'm supposed to take care of my family. I've failed," Catoqui said, staring at the wall.

"I don't think you're the one that's failed, here," Tlocacihe replied, placing her hand on her husband's arm. After a moment, he looked at her and nodded.

---

Saclamantón

"This is bullshit!" Antlitel shouted.

Along with dozens of her fellow factory workers, Antlitel stared angrily at the Lohuā Licā foreman in front of her. Two of the three shifts that normally worked at the Saclamantón paper products plant had just been "indefinitely furloughed" - no severance, no further pay beyond their last paycheck.

Those workers were now outside the main entrance to the plant, where the besieged foreman had just delivered the news to the workers. The foreman, Tema, sighed. "I don't like this either, Antlitel, but it's a business decision. There simply isn't enough demand right now for us to keep everyone working. We'll bring everyone back once the economy rebounds. This is just a temporary situation," he pleaded.

"Temporary. Are my bills just temporary also? Is my rent temporary? How about my utility bills, or the pesky need that my wife and kids and I have for food, is that temporary? How the hell are we supposed to pay our bills and feed our families until Lohuā Licā decides they can afford to have us work again?" Antlitel shouted, shaking her fist at Tema. The workers behind her began shouting as well, echoing her concerns.

Inside the plant, the plant manager, Acinchenepa, hastily picked up a phone in her office as she looked out the window at the crowd of workers on the ground below.

In a few moments, a large group of Lohuā Licā security exited the plant, standing behind Tema in a line. "Look, Antlitel, I'm sorry, but there's nothing else I can tell you right now. Just go home, please, and wait to hear from us. Don't do anything dumb that will get you permanently fired, or worse."

Eyeing the security guards lined up in front of the plant, Antlitel and the laid-off workers were clearly assessing their odds. After an extremely tense moment, Antlitel turned to leave, the other workers following her. She stopped at the gate out of the complex, turning to look at Tema. "This isn't over. We're not done with you - or with this company," Antlitel said grimly as she walked out with the other workers. Tema sighed, wiping his brow, after they left. "Make sure there are guards 24-7 around the fence," he said quietly to the security team leader.

---

XBA headquarters
Tlālacuetztla

"So, it's done," Pa'zi said, sipping an expensive imported beer as he leaned back in his chair. "As we expected, the layoffs and terminations are not playing well, at least among those laid off or terminated. But with these measures, we should be able to ride out the economic disruption we're experiencing currently, with our companies' futures intact." The CEO of Imperial Petroleum shook his head. "It needed to be done."

Cuitōnzitl, the CEO of Tinal Mining, nodded in agreement. "There will be some complaining, no doubt. But if we didn't take these measures, there might not be any companies left to hire these people once this mess all blows over. I do hope these workers understand that keeping them on until we went bankrupt would have done no one any good in the end."

"Indeed," Cuālincōcatle, the CEO of Coatōn Corporation, said before taking a puff on his cigar. "Damn all of the bleeding heart do-gooder foreigners interfering in our business. The Eirians, the Legionites, the Laeralites, all of them. Their damned economic interference is the reason for all of this," Cuālincōcatle grumbled.

"I am concerned that we may not accurately be assessing the domestic anger these layoffs and terminations may cause," Xocolcōza said. "I tend to monitor social media and the 'net a bit more closely than you all do. Even with the attempts by the government to spin this situation and censor discussion of it, there are a lot of people that are very upset about this situation."

"So?" Matlate, the CEO of self-monikered Matlate Technicar, took a sip of wine and smiled. "I look at the interwebs just as much as you, Xocolcōza, and anyone with the time to go online and complain won't bother to do anything except rant and shout on Happytime Online before cleaning up the basement room they have in their mom's house. Who cares if they're upset? They can do like I did, and start their own companies if they're so worked up."

"I would not discount what Xocolcōza is saying so quickly." Manopantin, the Chairman of X3 Network looked at everyone. "I am seeing the same rumblings about all of this as Xocolcōza is. We cannot discount public anger. We have to manage this situation."

Atzical, the CEO of Lohuā Licā Companies, nodded. "And so we shall. But we did what we have to do. If it's sink or swim, I would much rather swim than sink. And by jettisoning the deadweight....it was necessary," he said with a nod of finality and took another drink from his glass. "All I know is....we bet on Xochiuhue to make this all work. He had better fix this situation, and soon. But for now, we must survive as best we can."

The leaders of the Xiomeran business community nodded in agreement. The motto of the XBA was Our prosperity is your prosperity. It didn't say Your suffering is our suffering.

[Democratic Republic Of Eiria]

(Joint Post with [nation]Xiomera[/nation])

Chancellor's Study, Geminus

Chancellor Lancaster sat behind his desk, laptop screen showing his slightly angered twin sister looking back at him. "How's Lauchenoira?". He asked, noting her expression. The glare he got was all the answer he needed. "That bad?".

"I hate having to sit across from those Xiomeran imperialist bastards while Adrian is sitting back at home! I hate not being there for him, to protect him." She let out a couple of Eirian curses and insults, causing Will to wince. "Calm down. I admit, they deserve it, but no good will come of it by attacking and insulting them directly. We must provoke them. And on a lighter note, the reason I added you to this call was that I was hoping to get in touch with the more rational Xiomeran royal via video call, and I could use your expertise."

She sighed, and shrugged. "Fine."

Will dialed a particularly exclusive number on his work phone and waited as the dial tone rang.

Texōccoatl was conferring with Brigadier General Tlanexchel and Aperira Raharuhi, the Milintican defense secretary, about the rapidly unfolding situation in Xiomera when the phone rang. He nodded to Chuaru to put the call through. "Chancellor Lancaster, and Minister Lancaster, thank you for calling. Your timing is most fortuitous. I have our own Defense Secretary on the line, along with Secretary Raharuhi from Milintica via video. It might be a good idea for us to coordinate our discussions, although if you prefer to talk privately I can also arrange that," Texōccoatl said as his face appeared on screen.

"Actually, that works well. I have my sister on video right here, so a merged video call would likely be beneficial. I'll set it up, it'll only take a moment." He typed for a moment, opening the Conference room to allow them access. "There. Online Video room 0898, passcode 2739. It's my personal room I keep on reserve. Advanced Security, EICA programmed. Should be safe."

"Excellent," Texōccoatl replied, adding the rest of them to the call. In the Crown Prince's office, Texōccoatl was seated next to Tlanexchel at a conference table. In Huānoch, meanwhile, Raharuhi was seated at her desk in the small office alloted to her at Fort Amacatl. "Good morning," Raharuhi said politely, counting her lucky stars that General Tlehuaque wasn't the one making the call. His rather blunt opinion of the Xiomerans probably wouldn't have been helpful to the conversation.

"Secretary Raharuhi, It's a pleasure to meet you. My sister is calling in from the Lauchenoiran Climate Conference, so the connection may be a bit spotty." Both of the Lancaster twins had donned their diplomat masks, their expressions the same shade of respectful and cordial. "Anyway, the purpose of this call is simple: What is the future of this coalition? I spoke with our emissary, Emily Rouchard, and she said that you had a plan for allied forced to make a beach landing, Your Majesty?". Will tried to sound as respectful as he could to avoid coming across as blunt.

Texōccoatl nodded. "Our current plans are to force a landing at Zapotlán, the city that sits at the center of the thin strip of land known as Quechtli. Our plan is to distract Xochiuhue's forces with troop movements in east Caxcana that make it appear as if a land operation is imminent against Xochiuhue's forces in western Huenya. That misdirection will ideally make him reroute forces from the rest of Xiomera, including at Zapotlán and at Chuaztlapoc. If we can seize and hold Zapotlán, we can sever western Huenya from the rest of the Empire. We believe western Huenya will prove to be a very strong base from which to work for Xochiuhue's eventual defeat."

"A well conceived strategy, however there are a number of risks. What if he doesn't reroute troops from the forces attacking Chuaztlapoc?" He asked, doing the best to pronounce the Xiomeran city name. "The defenders there are not big in numbers, from what I've heard. It's also a historical treasure, and is sheltering your mother. I'm not saying the plan is bad, just trying to inquire the risks."

"And I'll have to add on to that." Alice spoke up and cleared his throat. "What happens if forces are left in East Huenya? Zapotlán would be trapped from both sides."

"I will be the first to admit the plan is not perfect, and it does contain considerable risks. We have been planning this operation for some weeks now, however, so we are as ready as we are likely to be. As for Chuaztlapoc....we can't get straight there to save them, so this is the best plan we have," Texōccoatl said. "We've been talking with Prime Minister Moretti of Legionas, and the Legionites plan to deploy a very large force on the border with Xiomera. I am almost certain that given the size of the Legionite force being positioned there - 56,000 troops to be exact, with another 250,000 in reserve - that Xochiuhue will take the bait and redeploy some of his forces that way. We also have a bit of a diversion planned for the border islands as well. We have a force of volunteers that plans to link up with the islanders and stage a revolt there against the Imperial garrison. All of that should get Xochiuhue's attention, and get him to shift his plans enough to give us the opening we need."

Raharuhi coughed slightly to get everyone's attention. "The volunteers have been training in Milintica and are ready to go. They should arrive at the border islands just before the Zapotlán operation begins and give Xochiuhue the needed nudge."

Brigadier General Tlanexchel nodded, looking at the Lancasters on the video screen. "We are concerned about the forces in eastern Huenya, I won't lie. But if we can get the forces in western Huenya to switch sides, we'll have all the men we need to secure the bridgehead and force the junta onto the defensive. We believe that if we can give the junta two big defeats at Zapotlán and Chuaztlapoc, coupled with the already low morale of junta forces, we can pull it off. Our intelligence indicates that many Xiomeran soldiers, especially in the west, are doubting their orders and their leaders. Having the Empress alive, and seeing us break through, may be enough to cause major defections in their ranks."

Texōccoatl took on his famous mischievous grin at that point. "Now, if Eiria joined Legionas in mobilizing some ground and air forces and moving them as if they were getting ready to attack - adding to the bluff, as it were - that couldn't hurt our chances." The Crown Prince paused. "I will also say that it is fortunate that General Xōchhuitl is dead. He was a tactical genius. His replacement, Zinahue, is....not. Zinahue is exceptionally loyal to whoever is in charge, but he is not very bright. He's a bit of a lapdog in that sense, and he will likely give Xochiuhue very bad advice."

Both Eirians nodded, satisfied with the answer provided. "Ah, Blind loyalty. Encouraged in many armies, yet destroying said armies a decent portion of a time. It's a good thing Zinahue subscribes to such a manner of thinking."
Alice quipped. Her brother started talking after she finished, both siblings working in tandem. "Eiria will of course help with Air and Naval forces, at least. I'll have to request actual ground forces, but the Senate won't grumble too much about that. I'm glad we have great strategists from all nations on this coalition." He paused. "And you want to recruit portions of your army to defect, correct? Well, given Eiria's recent history, we have people experienced in militia recruiting we could send in to help. Along with keeping propoganda pouring into the Xiomeran media."

"That would be a huge help," Tlanexchel said. "We do want to get as many of our soldiers as possible to switch sides before this war is over. The last thing we want to have to do once this is all over is bring up half of our military on treason charges," he said with a shake of his head.

Texōccoatl nodded grimly at that as well. "We do plan to have a Truth and Reconciliation Commission look at everything that happened during the junta and Xochiuhue's rule, assuming we win of course. Any soldiers who committed war crimes will face charges. But if we can get the majority of our soldiers to come back to the right side before the war is over, that will make things much easier to win the fight now - and in the aftermath."

Alice tipped her head. "A Truth and Reconciliation commission? If you don't mind me asking, how do you intend to do that? Now, I'm not a lawyer, and my limited legal experience deals in International law, not specific national law. However, the war crime commission after our own civil war was..... Flawed, to say the least. How would your government handle it?"

"We plan to seat a commission of judges versed in Xiomeran and international law to hear the cases, and for investigators independent of the Imperial Police to investigate potential abuses. The Imperial Police will probably be disbanded altogether after this is all over, but that's another matter. We're also considering the possibility of letting international investigators assist us in investigating potential war crimes, although any prosecutions and decisions will be rendered solely by Xiomerans," Texōccoatl said.

"Okay, that makes since. This is a civil war, after all. We're just here to assist you. In the name of Democracy." Alice said, biting her lip. And Self-preservation.

Texōccoatl nodded. "We do plan to give those countries who helped us, such as yourselves, a chance to advise and discuss cases with us that come before the TRC. We know this whole mess is....unsettling to our neighbors and to the IDU as a whole."

The Chancellor knit his hands together, praying that his sister kept her mouth shut. "It has been a bit concerning to a lot of Eirian politicians, and I'd be a liar if I said that group didn't include myself. I trust you and your mother will work to reduce this neighborhood tension." He spoke quickly, trying to calm Alice down before she rants about Xochiuhue and his gutless pawns.

"Of course. We're sorry that it came to this, but once the rightful government is restored to power, I am sure that my mother will be eager to restore ties with our neighbors. And to reassure any fears anyone may have in the future," Texōccoatl added.

"We would love to cooperate with the restoration of formal ties between our nations, once your mother is put back on the Obsidian Throne." Alice had reapplied her court mask, making sure her composure does not slip again. "We would also like to develop further relations with Milintica, if that would be alright. East Caxcana is desperately in need of a new network of Diplomacy, and you can never have too many friends, at least when it comes to national relations."

Raharuhi nodded, smiling warmly. “We would be eager to establish closer relations with Eiria, and with a restored Xiomeran government as well, should it meet certain expectations for democracy and rights.”

At Raharuhi’s words, Texōccoatl kept the polite smile on his face. Inwardly, however, he was cringing. Here come the demands, he thought.

The Chancellor's smile widened a little. "I couldn't agree more." It's nice we have some others who are able to hold Xiomera to their Reformist promises. "A democratic Xiomera would certainly help to ensure peace in the region, as well as balancing the power in Caxcana. It will be nice to view Xiomera as a friend, and not an acquaintance with a loaded gun."

Texōccoatl continued to smile, nodding in agreement. The Crown Prince was trying to think of an appropriately noncommittal but polite response to the veiled assertion that Xiomera was essentially a regional gangster in Caxcana that needed sweeping political change. General Tlanexchel, sensing this, intervened. “The future status of Xiomera is certainly something worth considering once this war is over. For our deliberations on that future to mean anything, however, we have to win first,” the Jaguar Warrior said in a highly practical tone of voice.

Will noted the reaction and nodded. "True. Speaking of which, if the Milita recruiters I mentioned earlier manage to recruit some Xiomerans to defect, where would you want them sent? Chuaztlapoc or Zapotlán? Which one takes precedence in that case?"

Texōccoatl paused for a moment. “Chuaztlapoc, in that case. We have enough support for the assault on Zapotlán, I think. Chuaztlapoc definitely needs all the help it can get.” Texōccoatl thought a silent prayer that he wasn’t condemning his mother to death with his main focus on Zapotlán.

Both Lancasters looked at the Crown Prince with pity. "I must express my admiration for the way you've led your people in such a hectic time, Your Majesty. It's a hard thing, watching your country be taken over by someone who uses it solely for their own gain." Alice adopted a more sincere tone, trying to comfort the Crown Prince.

Texōccoatl nodded in appreciation. “It has not been easy. But I am hopeful that we are beginning to turn the tide on this situation, and that the future will be better. We just have to get through these difficult times now and in the months ahead. The support that all of you have shown has helped greatly.” Texōccoatl turned to look at Tlanexchel. “Brigadier General Tlanexchel will be the point of contact during any military operations, but I am always available as well.”

"Sounds good. Thank you, Your Majesty, General Tlanexchel, Secretary Raharuhi. Is there anything else you need of Eiria?"

"Not at this time, but thank you for the call and for your support as always. General Tlanexchel will contact Admirals Circè and Techilō soon to ensure the landing at Zapotlán goes smoothly," Texōccoatl said. "And if you need anything else, please feel free to contact either the General or myself."

Both the Chancellor and the Minister gave a short bow over the video chat. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I'll let you get back to your meeting." He typed a command, and the Video chat split into two separate channels, leaving him and his sister alone.

"I think that went well." He said, sitting back in his chair. "Maybe that will ease your hostility against the Xiomerans. Not all of them are like Xochiuhue and his disciples." He chuckled at the eye roll he got in reply.

[Lauchenoiria]

Phone call between Alvarez and unknown agent
1st August 2020

“Ma’am, the Aurora has escaped.”

“Given that she wasn’t a prisoner, how exactly did she ‘escape’!?”

“The Aurora knocked two Lauchenoirian agents unconscious and then fled.”

“Shit. Very well, activate the anti-Aurora measures we set in place. I hoped we would never have to do this, but Penners has betrayed us. Let’s make sure she cannot leave this country. And when you find her, bring her to me.”

*

Kerlian-Lauchenoirian Border - walled section between North-West Fleura Province (L) and Caralina Region (K)
11th August 2020 - ten days later

Veronica Penners dropped down from the top of the wall onto the Kerlian side of the border, landing on her feet crouched down, and breathed a sigh of relief. Ten days, it had taken her to escape Lauchenoiria. Ten days. She took her passport and her crossing permit out, crossing her legs and leaning back against the wall to wait for the next border patrol. It was a safer option for a Kerlian agent than wandering off: the border agency had a tendency to shoot moving targets first, and ask questions later.

She’d been foolish to think she could balance multiple loyalties. Sooner or later, they would conflict with each other. Her primary loyalty was to Robinson and the pro-DKS faction of Auroras that the Robinson family had recruited. She had worked for the Aurora Programme proper on the understanding that as soon as those two loyalties conflicted that she would choose the Robinsons’ side over that of the Pierres.

It was the same with her work for Alvarez - the moment that had conflicted with her Kerlian loyalties, she’d refused. Leading to her having to flee Lauchenoiria once again. Alvarez had sent people to her address to fetch her, and she’d gone along with it thinking it would be something to do with the Olivia Pierre kidnapping, which (both sets of) her Kerlian handlers had given her permission to work with the Lauchenoirians on.

Fortunately for Veronica, while in the car, one of them had let slip that this was about her connections with climate groups and the Xiomeran affair. Veronica was well aware that Alvarez’s goals in Xiomera were directly contradictory to those of Kerlile. So, when they stopped for petrol - always an ordeal in Lauchenoiria, for there was usually either a shortage or a protest outside the station - she’d knocked the pair unconscious, and ran for it.

This was the point where Veronica realised that her proposal that she accept offers of work from Alvarez to give them an “in” in Lauchenoiria was ill-considered. She’d pitched the idea to her handlers on the grounds that it would allow them to keep an eye on Alvarez and her priorities; permit both nations to cooperate secretly on common goals; and hopefully ease some of Alvarez’s (well-founded) fears around Auroras.

Yet it was now clear to her that Alvarez had learned more about her and her kind than she had about the workings of Lauchenoiria. She had never expected fleeing Lauchenoiria to be as difficult as it had been this time. Clearly, Alvarez had been monitoring her more than she was aware of. She kind of hated herself for how foolish she had been. Her official pro-Pierre handlers would punish her for it, probably quite harshly. Nothing she couldn’t take, of course, but that hardly narrowed the options.

“You there! Freeze!” a border guard yelled. In response, Veronica lifted up her travel permit in an almost bored manner, waiting for her and her partner to run over.

The pair ran up and one snatched the permit and the passport, while the other produced handcuffs and gestured for Veronica to stand. Sighing, the young Aurora complied, knowing that in a few seconds they would freak out, and…

“Shit! Let her go!” the one who was looking at the permit said, jumping forward and snatching the handcuffs out of her colleague’s hands. She whispered something in her colleague’s ear and then the second woman jumped away.

“S… sorry, my most profuse apologies,” the second one said to Veronica, “I did not mean to…”

“It’s fine,” Veronica sighed. “If you hadn’t behaved in that manner you wouldn’t be doing your job. I did jump the wall, after all. Now, do you two have a vehicle?”

“Uh, yes, we have a jeep back at the post on the old road…”

“Great, take me to it. I need to speak with the Council rather urgently.”

*

Robinson Residence
13th August 2020 - two days later

The Aurora who sat in front of her had very clearly been beaten. She had a black eye, bruises along her right arm and her left arm was in a sling. The sight of Veronica was, to Councillor Robinson, a terrifying reminder of the cruelty of her government that still existed despite the new laws they passed trying to stop it. Robinson knew that Penners had reported back to the intelligence service the day before, but she hadn’t been expecting them to hurt Penners quite so obviously.

“Veronica…” Carmen said, tears swelling in her eyes. “I’m so, so sorry. This is my fault.”

“No, Councillor,” the Aurora shook her head. “I knew what I was doing. I can take a beating, what matters is where we go from here. They’ve revoked my travel permit, Alvarez is rounding up people who are planning to travel to Xiomera, and Empress Yauhmi is alive. I worry that Alvarez is allowing her hatred of Yauhmi to rule her head, and if so, what that means for the conflict. If Lauchenoiria chooses to recognise Xochiuhue’s government, it would cause an uproar across the IDU.”

“Do you think that’s likely?” Robinson asked, then added. “But really, are you sure you can do this? You should rest.”

“Councillor, I have suffered worse than this. I will rest when I’m dead. For now, we have a crisis to work on. I’m unsure what Alvarez’s next move will be, but I am genuinely concerned that they’re going to move to recognise Xochiuhue.”

“If that happens, it will cause uproar. In the middle of the climate conference, do you really think they would do that?”

“No, if she’s going to do it, she will wait until after. But, I remind you, she did invite Xochiuhue’s government to the conference. That is a de facto recognition even if they haven’t made an official statement endorsing either side yet.”

“She really hates Yauhmi,” Carmen shook her head. “It seems personal. She was on the fence until Yauhmi was revealed to be alive and now she seems to be leaning towards supporting the junta despite their views.”

“It’s possible Alvarez is waiting to see what happens in Chuatzlapoc. If Yauhmi is killed in the battle, then I doubt she will recognise Xochiuhue as legitimate. If Yauhmi wins, however…”

“Then Alvarez’s hatred could push her over the edge,” nodded the Councillor. She tapped her fingers on her leg for a little, thinking. “If Yauhmi dies, it will be a disaster for the Matriarchy, and a disaster for reform both there and here. We have to make sure that she lives. Which means that Alvarez is going to become our enemy.”

“That seems rather strong,” Veronica said, surprised. “Councillor Hale is still legally married to Alvarez, “enemy” seems a provocative term.”

“I’d never use it publicly. But that’s the fact of the matter. We cannot trust Lauchenoiria, and we need to take steps to make sure that Yauhmi survives, and that the rightful government of Xiomera wins this war.”

“Steps?” Veronica asked, though she already had an idea of what Carmen meant, and the thought frightened her.

“DKS. We agreed not to use the army we have formed and hidden to start another war against the Council, on the grounds that reform is proceeding without a war,” Robinson said, stating what Veronica already knew. “But Xiomera is not achieving what we are. They are having a war for the cause of reform. The cause these people have dedicated their lives to.”

“You’re going to send your hidden army to Xiomera,” Veronica said. It was not a question. It was clear from the Councillor’s tone that her mind was made up.

Ignoring Veronica, who lay back in her chair and groaned then winced in pain as she stretched her sprained arm by mistake, Councillor Robinson stood up and picked up a phone connected to her internal line, dialling the number of one of her political aides.

“I need to speak with both Crown Prince Texōccoatl and the King of Zongongia as soon as possible. Yes, in that order. And do not let the other Councillors find out about the calls - take all security precautions. And I do mean all.”

[Xiomera]

August 13
Tlālacuetztla
Ximac Fortress, Defense Planning Center

The Ximac Fortress is a sprawling compound at the heart of the Empress Camaxtica Military Headquarters Complex. The first military base built at what would become Xiomera's military headquarters, Ximac is an ancient and forbidding pile of stone. Its aged exterior gave little clue to its advanced interior. The Defense Planning Center was the cornerstone of that interior - and of Xiomera's entire defense network.

Built around what had once been an indoor parade ground, the DPC was a bustling place even in normal times. Under the current circumstances, it was even more hectic than normal. The many giant screens lining the walls provided real-time data from the satellites, surveillance systems and agents that Xiomera used to keep an eye on east Caxcana and beyond. Seated at various workstations in the center of the DPC, officers assigned to the Xiomeran General Staff tracked domestic and foreign activity, ever watching for any threat to the Empire. They were quite busy today.

"Events around the region are a bit concerning," General Zinahue said. Xochiuhue sighed, always bemused by Zinahue's perpetual tendency towards understatement. "Really.....explain, General," the Emperor said, mostly managing to keep the sarcasm out of his voice. Zinahue, as usual, didn't notice.

"We can clearly see Legionite formations mobilizing, as if preparing for deployment," Zinahue said, gesturing to one of the officers to zoom in on the digitized regional map on the center viewscreen. The officer zoomed in on the immediate border area between Xiomera and Legionas. "We have a rough estimate, that at least 40,000 to 50,000 Legionite troops are mobilized for immediate deployment, and that substantially larger reserves are waiting further inland." Zinahue ordered the officer to zoom in on another part of the map, the areas between Eiria and Xiomera. "Eirian air and naval units appear to be mobilizing as well for possible action. And the traitorous First Fleet is moving northeast, accompanied by another Eirian fleet. There has been no mobilization or movement yet of Eirian ground forces, but we believe that is only a matter of time. The conclusion is inescapable, your Majesty. The Legionites and Eirians must be conspiring with the former Crown Prince to launch a military intervention against the Empire. The escape of the Empress has most likely convinced them to act."

Xochiuhue glared at the map, as if he could blast Legionas and Eiria off of the map with his eyes alone. "Place all Imperial military forces on highest alert, and order a general mobilization. Move our anti-ship missile units into defensive positions and ensure they are ready for immediate deployment. All shore defenses are to be prepared for imminent attack. All Air Force units are to prepare for immediate sorties, and the strategic bomber corps and rocket corps prepared for possible strikes. Move Army Corps IX and X to supplement Army Corps VI and VII in the western and southwestern areas where any attack from Legionas or Eiria would be most likely to occur."

"That will greatly reduce the number of forces of our planned attack at Chuaztlapoc," Zinahue warned.

The Emperor turned to look at Zinahue. "Army Corps V will still be assigned to reduce Chuaztlapoc. If you can't take the city with 50,000 men, General...." the Emperor's sentence trailed off unfinished. It didn't need to be finished. Zinahue nodded.

Security Secretary Calhualyana raised her hand. "If we move so many soldiers west, that will make it much harder for me to keep order in the rest of the country. ASI and Imperial Police resources are already stretched thin," she said in a cautionary tone. "Do not waste my time with more of your inability, Calhualyana," Xochiuhue responded irritably. "The Army is not supposed to be your backup. The Army's job is to defend the country. Your job is to maintain order. If the Army can do its job, so can you and your inept security personnel," the Emperor snapped.

Calhualyana silently accepted the sharp rebuke, gritting her teeth as Xochiuhue turned away. "Ah, General Yāotlah'lotl," the Emperor said, nodding to someone who had just walked into the room. The head of Xiomeran Military Intelligence returned the nod with a salute. "I came to present my report on morale and information from our political officers as you requested, your Majesty," Yāotlah'lotl said.

"Excellent. How would you describe the morale of our forces?" the Emperor asked.

"I would say morale is excellent. We have been doing well to maintain support for you and the government despite the efforts of others to counteract that message, and our political officers have reported that there is little dissent within the armed forces," Yāotlah'lotl said.

"I see. I do have one other question, General. Why should I trust this report, coming as it does from a traitor?" the Emperor said coolly.

He knows. Shit. Yāotlah'lotl knew she was in trouble, but she had nothing to lose by bluffing. "Your Majesty, I would never betray the Empire," Yāotlah'lotl said, feigning shock.

"Oh, but that's not true. You see, after Yauhmi escaped, I originally thought it was due to the ineptitude of ASI. There has been rather a lot of that going around," the Emperor said, as Calhualyana gritted her teeth again. "But I had a team begin investigating where the breakdown occurred. They discovered some rather surprising things. Communications from someone within ASI to your office, followed by you accessing the personnel file of a certain Major Huatli. The same Major Huatli who surveillance cameras caught leading the prison raid that helped Yauhmi escape. This was, of course, after you took an unscheduled, unlogged and unreported flight to Ixtenco, to the base camp of the same Major Huatli." Xochiuhue shook his head, chuckling. "I am quite surprised you left so many clues. XMI is apparently even more inept than ASI."

"It was you. You traitorous bitch," Calhualyana growled. "You betrayed my black site. You helped Yauhmi escape."

Yāotlah'lotl looked down at the floor, hiding her facial expression as if she was afraid. She was actually far less afraid than she should have rightly been. But, again, she had nothing left to lose. "Your Majesty, the truth is...." Yāotlah'lotl said softly, hoping to catch everyone off guard. Without warning, she leaped forward towards Xochiuhue, a dagger in her hand. She was quick, but General Zinahue was quicker. He jumped in front of Yāotlah'lotl, shielding the Emperor and grabbing Yāotlah'lotl's wrist. As guards rushed forward to restrain and disarm Yāotlah'lotl, the Emperor patted Zinahue on the shoulder. "Nice try, Yāotlah'lotl. Someone will die here today. But not me." The Emperor took the dagger from one of the guards. "Any last words, traitor?"

"I am no traitor!" Yāotlah'lotl shouted bitterly. "I never lied to you. I said I would never betray the Empire. And I never did. You are not the Empire, Xochiuhue."

"That is where you're wrong," the Emperor replied, before hefting the dagger and taking a single quick strike. As Yāotlah'lotl fell to the ground, Xochiuhue towered over her. "I am the Empire."

As the guards removed Yāotlah'lotl's body, Xochiuhue turned to discuss the Imperial defenses with Zinahue and the other staff officers, already banishing Yāotlah'lotl from his mind. Zinahue found himself preoccupied with something, however.

He had rushed to the Emperor's defense. The Security Secretary, standing next to him, had not.

[Xiomera]

August 19
Tlālacuetztla

The Throne Room of the Palace of Flowers was rarely used for televised speeches. The Emperor's personal office in the Golden Chamber was the typical setting for such performances. But the Xiomeran Empire was not being run by a typical Emperor.

As Xiomerans, and the rest of the IDU, settled into their early routines, they would turn on their televisions, or their computers, to the sight of the two large golden doors that led into the Throne Room. As the Xiomeran imperial anthem played, two Xiomeran soldiers in full dress uniform swung the doors open. Emperor Xochiuhue strode through the doors, walking down the blood-red carpet to the Obsidian Throne with loyalists on either side of the aisle applauding him. The Emperor turned in front of the Obsidian Throne, facing the cameras, as the anthem stopped and the applause died down.

"Greetings to my fellow Xiomerans, and to those in the international community watching," the Emperor began, staring directly at the camera. "I am here today, speaking to you from the Palace of Flowers, to address a clear and present threat to the Xiomeran Empire and its future. As you all know, there have been incidents of unrest and violence aimed at this government, and at our nation and our society, since the removal from the Throne of the criminal that once occupied it. This criminal has recently made a speech, full of her usual arrogance and senile ramblings, threatening further unrest and division within our great Empire. I shall not bother to address her by name - criminals in Xiomera are identified by their prison numbers, not names, and so shall the prisoner 267603476, currently hiding in Chuaztlapoc, be addressed."

The Emperor shook his head. "What I will address - who I will address - are the forces that are propping up the criminal of Chuaztlapoc, and her false government, and the elements of subversion and violence that she has acting for her on the streets of our cities and in our countryside. It is increasingly clear that foreign powers, resentful of the success of Xiomera and determined to keep us underfoot, and second place to them, are supporting this ongoing rift in our nation for their own gain. The tears and the blood of Xiomerans are nothing to them but a chance to gain an advantage over us on the world stage. Their claims to be supporting 'democracy' and 'freedom' are lies. They do not want to free Xiomerans. They want to enslave us under foreign subjugation, under a puppet government and a puppet sovereign that will do their bidding and force Xiomera to change to what they prefer."

Xochiuhue shook his head again. "We will not allow it. Xiomera is our country. We see the soldiers of our neighbors moving into position, ready to seize upon us in what they think is a moment of weakness. We see your ships in the waters around us, sailing around as if we have no Navy of our own, and no defenses to fear. Your actions do not intimidate us. Xiomera is not Lauchenoiria, or Kerlile, or any other nation you have forced your will upon in the guise of 'peace' and 'democracy'. We have the strength, and the will, to resist your schemes and your 'accords' and your interference in the affairs of others. Xiomera is a sovereign nation, and it will remain such, even if we must fight for it to remain so."

Turning to the Obsidian Throne, Xochiuhue picked up an object that had been sitting on it. As he raised it to the camera, it was revealed to be a mācuahuitl. The Emperor raised the wooden club as if it were a sword. "To those that would seek to force us to bend to their bidding, I warn you: Xiomera will fight, no matter the odds. You would be extremely unwise to test our will. I also warn you: do not presume that the fires of war will be limited only to the lands of Xiomera, should you seek to impose violence upon us."

"To my own people, I say this: if you are true Xiomerans, and love our country, stand with me and defend it from all those that threaten it - whether they lurk within our own borders, or skulk outside our borders like jackals."

As the anthem began to play again, the Emperor swung the mācuahuitl down to his side and walked out again to more applause. The two soldiers closed the doors as he left, making a soft thump like a coffin lid closing.

Western and southwestern Xiomera

In the western half of Xiomera, four Imperial Army corps - IX, X, VI and VII - had moved to assigned positions and prepared for what was already widely expected to be a full-scale invasion by foreign forces. Xochiuhue, far away in the capital, was defiant and even optimistic about their chances. The 200,000 Xiomeran soldiers that had been sent to make good on the Emperor's threats and promises were not as enthused about the orders coming down from Tlālacuetztla.

Political officers assigned to XMI were having to work overtime to both keep up the morale of the Imperial troops, and also to ensure they remained loyal. Culhuitzoyuc, the new head of XMI, continued to receive highly promising and optimistic reports about the troops' morale and loyalty, however. This was because the political officers knew that bad news was not rewarded by Xochiuhue, or anyone who worked for him.

While a time bomb ticked under them, in the form of their own soldiers, the rulers of Xiomera remained blissfully unaware of that. But not everyone was content to quietly question the Emperor.

Palace of Flowers, one hour after the Emperor's speech

The Emperor's speech, which had veered dangerously close to being a declaration of war on anyone who tried to support Yauhmi by force, had thoroughly alarmed the leaders of Xiomera's massive corporations. The economic damage caused by the cold war between Xochiuhue's government and its opponents had been one thing. An actual war would be another matter altogether. The leaders of the Xiomeran Business Association had traveled, unannounced, to demand a meeting with the Emperor. The XBA delegation was led to the Throne Room, where Xochiuhue was sitting on the Obsidian Throne idly spinning the mācuahuitl he had used during his speech. "Leave us," he told everyone else in the room except for his two guards.

"Xochiuhue, this is rapidly spinning out of control. If your speech was meant to make the other countries back off and avoid a war, you'll likely cause the exact opposite reaction with that kind of rhetoric," Pa'zi said. "Their governments and their leaders are no less proud than we are. They won't take such threats lying down. They will redouble their support for Yauhmi and I cannot see a way we survive it - not just economically, but in every other possible way."

"Are you questioning the wisdom of my plans, then?" Xochiuhue said calmly.

By this time, anyone who truly knew Xochiuhue would have known that tone of voice. It was the tone of the calm before the storm. However, the leaders of Xiomera's business world didn't know that. They were used to telling others what to do, being the ones feared and obeyed. Even Emperors, when necessary, had danced to their tune in the past. They thought that pulling the same strings they always had would still work. They failed to understand that Xochiuhue didn't like to dance.

"Wisdom?" Atzical coughed, choking down some angry words before continuing in a slightly calmer tone. "Yes, we have to question the wisdom of this course. Ever since you became Emperor, things have been going from bad to worse for Xiomera. Now we're facing a full-scale rebellion and civil war here at home - shut up, Xocolcōza, it is a civil war, damnit," Atzical snapped as Xocolcōza began to demur, "and now we may be facing multiple hostile countries ready to slap us around. We cannot win against all of that. You have to reverse course and back down....or you have to step down," Atzical finished.

"I see," the Emperor said, pursing his fingers. After a moment, he waved at his guards in a subtle gesture using Xiomeran battle language. The guard pressed a button on his radio. Within seconds, twenty more guards appeared. "Place Pa'zi and Atzical under arrest. They are to be charged with subversion of Xiomeran industry and with threatening the Emperor. Imperial Petroleum and Lohuā Licā Companies are hereby nationalized and redirected to support defense needs."

As the CEOs stared in shock as Pa'zi and Atzical were handcuffed, the Emperor sighed. "In fact....all XBA member corporations are hereby nationalized for the duration of the national emergency and all of their production will be re-directed to support national defense needs," Xochiuhue said. "Any deviation from this Order will result in the imprisonment of the executives responsible. I trust the XBA will have no further concerns about my decisions?" the Emperor said coolly. It wasn't really a question.

The Emperor waved at the guards again. "Escort these fine ladies and gentlemen back to their corporate offices. For the duration of the emergency, Army officers shall be assigned to their companies to ensure full cooperation with our national mobilization effort. Any deviation, again....is not a good idea," the Emperor said, eyeing the CEOs as they were led out of the Throne Room.

As they left with their new minders, the Emperor stood up and walked to the windows of the Throne Room to look out at Tlālacuetztla. I will not be ordered around by self-serving businessmen grubbing for quetzals. I will not be dictated to by seditionist traitors on our streets. I will not be threatened by Yauhmi, or Legionites, or Eirians, or Laeralites, or anyone else. I am the Emperor of Xiomera. This is our country, he thought. I will defend and protect it, no matter what.

Chuaztlapoc

"Well, that was quite a speech. I wonder what he does for an encore," Yauhmi said in disgust as she turned off the television.

"I'm afraid we will soon find out," Etlahuatzitl said. As Yauhmi and the rest of her newly formed council of advisors looked on, the Shorn One handed the Empress a report. "Our scouts have discovered that a very large force is moving towards the city and will be in position to attack within one day. We don't know the full details, but it appears to be an entire Army corps. We may soon be facing an attack from at least 40,000 to 50,000 men, with accompanying air support."

Major Huatli looked at the report in shock. "Some people throw the kitchen sink at you. Xochiuhue just lobbed an entire hardware store at us." The former Aurora's battalion had become an integral part of the core of the Chuaztlapoc defenses, along with the Shorn Ones. "We have managed to grow our own forces to about 16,000. This is due to some recent defections from the Army, along with new arrivals from the other tribal forces and former Civil Guard units. We also have seen larger numbers of people arriving from other cities to help defend the Empress. But we're still outnumbered pretty badly," the Major finished.

Tlalmaxxi, the wife of Texōccoatl, nodded grimly. "We are facing a huge threat, and I don't know how we fend it off," the former ASI agent sighed.

No one else seemed to know what to say. The report of the massive force headed for Chuaztlapoc had let the air out of the room. Sensing this, the Empress abruptly stood up. "All of you, come with me," she demanded.

In surprise, the group followed Yauhmi out of the Hall of Chuaztlapoc to the ancient walls surrounding the old quarter of the city. From there, they could all see the rest of the city below them, and in the distance the camps and battle lines of those who had come to defend it. They all waited for Yauhmi to say something. It took quite a while. "We always talk about having the mandate of the gods," she finally said. "Sovereigns of Xiomera are supposed to have that mandate in order to rule. Xochiuhue says he has it. I used to say the same, before being dragged off my throne, shoved into prison and tortured made me realize just how little truth there was to that. Gods, I used to be so full of myself," Yauhmi said softly.

"....but you're the Empress," Etlahuatzitl said after a moment. "If you don't have that mandate, who does?"

"They do," Yauhmi replied, pointing out at the defenders of Chuaztlapoc. "The people of this country do. They're the ones risking their lives for it, after all. They're the ones who make it work, who keep it running, and who die for it. The people who believe in our country, and its future, have that mandate. And they're fighting for what's right, even when it seems hopeless and futile. They have right on their side. And that gives them the mandate of the gods, and their strength. I don't care if Xochiuhue sends 50,000 men at us or 500,000 men. They don't believe in him or his cause, because in their heart, they know it's wrong. They know he has no mandate, from gods or men. Those people out there, fighting for us, do have that mandate. This will be a very ugly fight, and unfortunately, many people will die. Let's not sugarcoat that," Yauhmi added. "But in the end, right will prevail. The odds seem hopeless, but mark my words: Chuaztlapoc is not the end for us. It is the beginning."

As Yauhmi turned back to face whatever was coming, and those who were there to defend her from it, the rest of her advisors stood along the wall with her. If they hadn't believed they could win before, they did now.

Netlcoātl Islands

While Yauhmi believed that Chuaztlapoc would be the beginning of the true fight for Xiomera, the Netlcoātl Islanders begged to differ. They had been aware of the ongoing efforts by the Teyatia and their activist friends from other countries to fight off the Imperial forces on Manauia Island. Now, it was their turn.

After their leader Itzamatul had been taken prisoner by ASI, and detained in the Imperial garrison in Citlamina, many of the islanders had been planning an uprising to free him for some time. Their efforts had been accelerated with urgency, and some weapons happily smuggled in from nearby Legionas, after Yauhmi had reappeared in Chuaztlapoc.

In the early hours of August 19th, the islanders quietly began moving to take over isolated Imperial Police stations and military garrisons on outlying islands. Backed by members of the decommissioned Civil Guard from the islands, they were able to secure control of the outlying islands relatively easily. Citlamina, on the main island, would be a different story. It was home to the largest Imperial garrison on the islands, and also to a small naval base. Both were on high alert.

Nevertheless, at 7:00 am Xiomeran time, the streets of Citlamina began to echo with gunfire. The soldiers at the Imperial garrison were stunned to see what looked like the entire population of Citlamina descending on their perimeter. Imperial soldiers began returning fire, using their heavy weapons mounted around the perimeter to fend off the first few waves of attackers. Normally, after that, most attacks on Imperial bases by disgruntled locals ended pretty quickly. A taste of massive firepower was normally enough to deter opposition.

This was not a normal time on the Netlcoātl Islands.

As the morning hours passed, wave after wave of Islanders continued their attacks on the Imperial garrison. The commander of the garrison, Catequiac, hastily called in air support. Two Huacamal attack helicopters approached the fighting, their pilots calmly preparing to target the attacking Islanders on the ground below and end their insurrection once and for all. This tactic had worked many times before throughout Xiomera during the emergency. As the helicopters arrived overhead, the attacking Islanders looked up in fear, their lines wavering.

A sudden whoosh echoed out, along with a thin line of smoke. One of the Islanders had managed to get ahold of a Xiomeran surface-to-air missile. The two attack helicopters tried to veer off, surprised by the missile launch. The missile was not to be denied, however; a Huacamal lost its tail rotor, pinwheeling violently towards the ground. It struck the nearby Imperial Police building. As the Islanders cheered, the Imperial Police building began to burn.

The other helicopter, successfully veering away, fled rapidly back east. The Islanders redoubled their attack, greatly inspired by the downing of the helicopter. The remaining Imperial defenders had the opposite reaction; for the first time, their own lines began to waver and crumble.

Seeing that his remaining men were finally about to break, Catequiac jumped aboard a transport helicopter and fled along with as many of his men as could be transported on the remaining helicopters assigned to them. As the helicopters began to lift off, the remaining Imperial soldiers broke for good, and the Islanders swept into the garrison.

As Xiomeran forces left the Islands for the first time in centuries, an Islander climbed atop the main building of the Imperial garrison. He had a single mission. Reaching a flagpole, he began hauling down the Xiomeran flag. Raising the flag triumphantly over his head, he set it on fire. A new day had indeed begun in Citlamina.

[Democratic Republic Of Eiria]

The Chancellorial Manor's gym, East Wing, Geminus
8:53 AM

Chancellor Lancaster dodged his assailant's blow, his feet moving quickly to counter his opponent's movements. He countered a blow with his wrist guard, launching a blow of his own to try and throw his opponent off balance. The attacker recovered quickly, closing the distance between them to strike again. Lancaster used his opponent's momentum against him, attempting to pull him to the ground.

The man fighting him anticipated that, however, and pushed forward, landing on top of the Chancellor's ribs. The Chancellor fought back, struggling desperately. Shit. He tried one last move, bringing his knee up and knocking his assailant onto the padded floor, pinning his legs and putting one hand around his neck. The attacker, after a few moments of struggling, patted twice on Will's arm. He released him, smiling, and pulled him up. "Good fight, Naikatel."

The Martial Art Master nodded, smiling with him. "You've been practicing, for all of these years. You've come so far since that young man came to me wanting to learn how to fight back. Now I'm a young man, and you're the Chancellor." He sighed. "Time has a funny sense of humor."

"Yes, it does." Will looked over to the other ring set up in the gym, to see the other Naikatel and the Proviri taking a water break. "Your husband is in surprisingly good shape." She said, stepping off the padded floor into the wood aisle. "And by the fight you put up for Santelia over there, you are as well." She took off her wrist guards, striped red for the Offensive style of Naika, the old Tervali martial art. The Proviri had similar wrist guards, while the other Naikatel (Naika Master) and the Chancellor had blue stripes, signifying the Defensive style.

"We've kept in practice. It's a good way to get rid of stress and excess anger. Always necessary in politics."

She nodded. "I suppose. Say, if you guys have stayed in practice so much, why don't you two try a match? A Standard Ten Minute Match could be interesting, especially since both of you are trained in different styles."

The couple looked at each other and grinned. This'll be fun.

---

The Chancellor and his husband stood, breathless, leaning on the wall of the gym. The match had gone on for the full ten minutes, with both men having the advantage in different parts of the round. "Well done, both of you. Now, we should be getting back to the Dalinaika, since we have students to teach, and I suppose you have a country to run. Jūdeirlien!" The Naika masters left, leaving the couple alone.

"I haven't had that good a sparring match in years." Jake wrapped an arm around his husband's shoulders, planting a kiss on his head as they walked through the Manor's passageways. Will pulled out his phone, furrowing his eyebrows as he opened a text from Joshua Lacewick, his PR manager. "The fake Xiomeran Emperor made another Propaganda video. It's time for me to make another rebuttal. According to Lacewick, it's a thinly veiled war declaration. And I think I know just the statement to make."

---

The Walk-in closet attached to the Chancellor's suite was spacious enough for any major fashionista, but the Ruling Couple of Eiria had little interest in trendy styles. Most of the Suits hanging from the racks were fine, single-color suits, save a couple of Jackets from Will's "Trendy" phase and an old motorcycle jacket from Jake's pre-war 'Biker Gangs'. However, none of these Clothes caught the Chancellor's attention this particular morning.

The pair of dark Purple Military uniforms hung near the corner of the vast closet, well+maintained but unused for quite some time. Will picked the smaller of the two off the rack and examined it, noting the metals and insignia attached to the lapel. Many rulers have had ceremonial fake uniforms with equally fake insignia to match, but unlike those rulers, the medals on both uniforms were earned by their wearers.

He snagged one pin, an insignia only known in certain circles, and hid it in one of the closet dressers. The people aren't ready to know that particular truth yet. He donned the uniform, the coat fitting snugly as if he had gotten it tailored yesterday. He turned to Jake, winking at him. "Let's go kick some tyrant ass."

---
Press Briefing Room, Main Wing, Chancellor's Manor
11:00 AM

The Chancellor walked out onto the Briefing Platform, the sight of him attracting the photographers to snap photos and the journalists to quiet down. He lightly tapped the microphone, clearing his throat. "Good Morning, everyone." He said in Eirian, thinking for a moment before continuing in English. "I would like to do a portion of today's briefing in English, if you wouldn't mind. 'Emperor' Xochiuhue has released another propaganda video, and I would like to rebuke a few things, and, as they say, 'set the record straight'.

He continued, his slight accent creeping in on some English words. "In the very first part of his speech, Xochiuhue essentially calls Yauhmi a 'Criminal', and that she was set on making speeches full of 'senile ramblings' set on dividing the 'Great Xiomeran Empire'. I would like to know what crime Xochiuhue thinks Yauhmi committed. His answer would likely be treason, unoriginal as it is. But I would like to ask Xochiuhue, what had Yauhmi committed treason against?"

"The general definition of Treason is making actions set on undermining and/or harming the government of a nation, and in some democratic nations, such as Eiria, treason is extended to include actions against the well-being of the people of the nation as well. Now, since Yauhmi was fairly elected the ruler of Xiomera, and since she implemented democratic reforms in order to help the populace of Xiomera, Yauhmi had obviously committed neither of those defined treasons. Xochiuhue has claimed in the past that Yauhmi attempted, and I'm paraphrasing, 'to undermine the morals of the Empire'. That is a weak excuse for a treason charge, in my personal opinion."

He paused for a moment, cracking his knuckles as an idle fidget. "Moving past that, throughout his speech, Xochiuhue makes a number of references to, quote, 'The Great Xiomeran Empire' and 'The Success of Xiomera'. The current Xiomeran 'Empire' is built on keeping a great number of working class people, as well as fellow Huenyan ethnic groups, underfoot and oppressed. While they languish, the rich live in luxury off of money they greedily keep to themselves. And that isn't a shot at Eirian upperclassmen." He said quickly, backpedaling. "The rich here actually earned their money, and they contribute back to society."

"The 'Great Xiomeran Empire' is dwindling like a candle flame as the Emperor's own people slowly turn against him. He claims we're jealous of their 'success' and that we wish to keep them as a puppet. Which is absurd, because there's nothing in the current Xiomeran regime to be jealous of." His voice gradually got more commanding, the soldier in him starting to show. "Furthermore, towards the end of this propaganda stunt, he makes a strong threat to supporters of Yauhmi and Crown Prince Texōccoatl with a sword in hand. This threat, foolish as it may be, shall be taken as a threat against Eiria itself, since we were one of the recipients this overdone threat was directed at."

"And Finally, he ended with a call to the Xiomeran populace to defend from threats to Xiomera. He also called us 'Jackals circling outside the Xiomeran borders', which is a bit Ironic, given that the Junta that put Xochiuhue on the Obsidian Throne did a similar thing to overthrow Yauhmi, only that time it was legitimately treason." He glanced around the room. "To end this segment of today's briefing, I would like to extend another question to Xochiuhue: Are you confident you will win this? And even further: Are you happy with how history may perceive you?".

As he finished, the room was silent for a few seconds, before exploding into chaos. Journalists clamoured up to ask questions, photographers and cameramen snapped photos and moved around the room, frantically trying to get the best shot. Chancellor Lancaster smiled at all the commotion, proud of his performance. Maybe I should wear this uniform more often.

[Lauchenoiria]

Alvarez’s Office
20th August 2020 – morning

“I’ve changed my mind.”

The Prime Minister looked up from her desk at Lidia, expecting some kind of response to her statement from the younger woman.

“Changed your mind about what, ma’am?” Lidia sighed, putting down her pen and turning to face her boss.

“Xiomera. Call off the drug squad, let the WOE members go,” Alvarez stood up and walked over to her office mini fridge, pulling out a cold bottle of water and gulping it down. The heat was not relenting, and the air conditioning in government buildings was rather aging.

“And what is behind this change of heart, may I ask?”

“I realised something after that last broadcast of Xochiuhue’s. He does not respect Lauchenoiria as a nation. Yauhmi attacked us, but at least she felt the need to warn us off and threaten us. She might have treated our nation like an enemy, but he treats us like an insect not worth his time. And insects get swatted more than enemies get invaded. Yauhmi is a slight threat to Lauchenoiria. Xochiuhue is a much greater one.”

The conviction in Alvarez’s voice caused a shiver to run down Lidia’s spine. She had already seen people speculating about possible imperial ambitions should Xochiuhue win the war, but she’d trusted Alvarez’s analysis of the unlikelihood of any invasions. To hear the Prime Minister change her mind on this worried Lidia.

“So… uh… what do we do?” she asked, slightly concerned.

“We cannot involve ourselves in this conflict in any official manner. It’s too close to our own civil war, and it would spell trouble. We also don’t have the resources, and I don’t want us to get tangled up in foreign wars while we’re still rebuilding. But, unofficially… let WOE do as they wish.”

“We’ve had reports they plan to ship weapons to Manauia Island out of Lauchenoirian Resistance stockpiles that haven’t been turned over to the government. Should we allow that as well?”

“What we don’t know can’t hurt us. Lauchenoiria isn’t exactly known for our stringent checks at the border. I think we should redirect some of our forces to other tasks, such as hunting down the rest of Gabriel Fleming’s little traitors.”

“As you wish, Prime Minister,” Lidia nodded, turning to leave. In truth, she was relieved that Alvarez was going down this route. As not-legal and dodgy as it was, it would be less harmful politically in Lauchenoiria than a crackdown on environmental activists, and there was always that plausible deniability if the Xiomerans got their knickers in a twist. Still, Lidia couldn’t shake the fear that this war would have a nasty end.

*

Council Chamber, Kerlile
Simultaneous

“I agree,” nodded Nirmala Patel. “This time, the democracies would be on the same side as us, a welcome change, and far less likely to lead to repercussions against us. At this stage, who would fault us for this decision?”

“My wife,” muttered Councillor Hale under her breath, only half joking. The rest of the Council responded with a mixture of awkward silence and awkward chuckles.

“It seems we are close to reaching a consensus. And I wouldn’t be too sure about that, Jennifer,” Councillor Chiu added, “that pretender insulted her nation just as much as ours, and from what you tell me, she won’t take such things lying down.”

“Are we fully prepared for the consequences if this goes wrong?” Rosemary interjected, sounding much more nervous than the older Councillors.

“If it goes wrong, then Eiria, Milintica, Laeral and Legionas are all better targets for retaliation, geographically speaking,” said Pierre, looking both more subdued and angrier than usual. It had been like that since her daughter went missing. “If Empress Yauhmi loses this war, we will be in trouble regardless of our level of participation beforehand.”

“That’s true,” nodded Carmen Robinson, looking slightly alarmed to be agreeing with a Pierre. “We don’t really have much to lose. I can’t see any real objections to this plan. Are there any?”

The Councillors all looked at each other over the table. Rosemary shook her head, and Hale tapped her fingers, considering, before copying Rosemary.

“Then, is it decided?” Chiu asked, suddenly rather quiet. After a hesitation, Councillor Hart nodded, followed by Pierre, followed by several others, until everyone around the table had made a physical acknowledgement of agreement.

“Very well,” said President Arnott, who was sitting on a chair at the edge of the room, listening to the meeting proceedings. “I shall call Texōccoatl as soon as possible. Thank you, all. I know this is a difficult decision, and rather frightening. But I promise you, I will not let our country be destroyed. We have come too far to give up fighting now. Long live the Matriarchy.”

“Long live the Matriarchy,” chorused the Councillors in response as the President walked to the door and left the room. A silence descended over the room, the silence of a group who were uncertain if they’d just made the right decision.

[Xiomera]

(joint post with [nation]Lauchenoiria[/nation])

August 20th

President Rebecca Arnott of Kerlile stared at the picture of her predecessor, Joanna Greenwood, as she waited for her assistant to make the phone call. Greenwood had expected to go to prison for her role in the Lauchenoirian affair, just like the late Anita Patel, but had been spared. They'd all been as surprised as each other when that happened, but it gave Arnott hope that what she was about to do would not result in negative personal consequences.

At least, she hoped not.

Her assistant nodded to her once the call was patched through, and she picked up the phone on her desk, placing the receiver to her ear. "Good afternoon, Crown Prince Texōccoatl. This is President Arnott. May we speak?"

”Of course, madam President. I’m glad to take your call.” Texōccoatl was in the midst of planning the Zapotlán operation. “I trust that things are going well in Kerlile.”

"As well as they can be, given the economy," sighed President Arnott. "I rather think the black marketeers from Kvask are enjoying this. Anyway, Kerlile is not what I wished to discuss with you. I have just come from witnessing a Council meeting, and the Council has made a decision you should be informed of."

Texōccoatl paused for a moment, wondering if this would be good news or bad. “I’m guessing under the circumstances that this is related to recent events in Xiomera and how we plan to respond to them.”

"You will recall that at the beginning of the conflict my nation was reluctant to provide any military assistance. We have reevaluated that decision, in light of recent events. As long as Lauchenoiria does not join the war on the other side - something that is extremely unlikely - we are now willing to dedicate a number of military resources to assist in your cause."

”That’s very good to hear,” Texōccoatl said, surprised. “I admit that I was not expecting that. But I would be very grateful for the help. What kind of resources would you be able to contribute, and how can we assist?”

"We have manpower - well, womanpower," Arnott laughed self-consciously at her own bad joke before continuing, "and plenty of ammunition and basic weaponry. We lack any high-tech capabilities, but if you need people, we've got people."

”If you have people, we can make sure they get what they need. I can authorize a sort of exchange program where we provide Kerlian forces with Xiomeran equipment. I think we had been doing that before the civil war started, but we can do so on a much bigger scale. Some of the factories we built in Kerlile can be switched over to production of war materiel easily enough. We also can make sure that anyone you send can get to the action with our transport capabilities. There are actually several possible places they could make a contribution. The question would only be, how much in the thick of things you prefer your people to be.”

"Kerlian soldiers are always prepared to die for their country. That said," Arnott winced slightly, "we've still got some issues with the transition to reform in our country, particularly in the military. We've drummed it into them that some of the... tactics used in Lauchenoiria are no longer acceptable. As to whether or not they all got the message... well, I don't know how close you want our people to your civilians."

”There is sadly no place that is not somewhat close to civilians at this point. That’s the nature of civil conflict,” Texōccoatl said. “That being said, there are three potential sites. The Netlcoātl Islands, Zapotlán and Chuaztlapoc. Getting people to Chuaztlapoc is problematic right now, as it is deep inside territory controlled by Xochiuhue. The Netlcoātl Islands are easy to get to, but peripheral to our efforts. Zapotlán, where we intend to launch the main effort of our initial invasion, may be the best suited for your help. That will be a very intense operation, however. Amphibious assaults tend to be that way.”

"We are willing to assist in that operation, if that is the best option for winning this war," President Arnott replied firmly. "And we will make it crystal clear in our orders that no civilians are to be harmed, and any prisoners of war should be handed over to your forces immediately."

”That is very good to hear. I will be happy to accept your help, on behalf of my mother the Empress,” Texōccoatl said formally. Xiomerans had to make things official. Adopting a less formal tone, Texōccoatl asked Arnott, “I am slightly concerned though. Will committing troops to our fight cause Kerlile any problems as far as the Haven Accords or any of that?”

"Not unless Lauchenoiria gets involved in the war, at least by my lawyers' reading of things," President Arnott sighed. "And probably not then, though we wouldn't want to risk it. I can't see Lauchenoiria becoming involved, unless you know something I don't?"

”Lauchenoiria is not officially involved, and the rather loud silence of Prime Minister Alvarez about our situation would seem to imply they will not be,” Texōccoatl said. “In the interest of full disclosure though - and please keep this between us - Lauchenoirian citizens are fighting on Manauia Island. They are volunteers, however, and in no official capacity from their government.”

President Arnott muttered a swear word under her breath, but likely loud enough to be heard through the phone line. She tapped her fingers on the desk a few times and let out a sigh. "We are fine as long as it does not affect the stability of Lauchenoiria itself."

”I believe it should be acceptable. Any Kerlian soldiers would be fighting well away from any Lauchenoirian volunteers - the Lauchenoirians involved have made it very clear that their only interest is Manauia Island. And this doesn’t affect Lauchenoiria at all, so that should also be fine. I did think that it was important to let you know this before you officially commit to anything, however. I have no wish to hurt Kerlile just to help ourselves.” Texōccoatl meant it, but was silently dreading having to say so. They could use the help, after all.

"Manauia Island? Ah, the climate people, presumably," chuckled Arnott. "Good luck with them. No, we should be just fine. Although, the Council did have a couple... stipulations before consenting to this, regarding who commands the Kerlian forces."

”That makes sense, we would have the same in such a situation. What stipulations did the Council have?”

"Well, they want one of their relatives in command. Cousins and whatnot. They don't trust anyone else, especially after Lauchenoiria. My sister, or that Patel cousin, or any of the five or so Chiu who are high up in the military ranks. The Chiu have a lot of children."

”We would have no problem with that, given one stipulation of our own,” Texōccoatl said, his voice taking on a slightly apologetic tone. “I mean this with no disrespect, but in any country, there is a possibility that people connected to leaders can earn positions they are not strictly qualified for. We would respectfully ask that whoever is placed in charge of your troops be a qualified soldier skilled in command. I know I am not in a position to look a gift horse in the mouth, so to speak. But there is so much riding on this operation, including my mother’s life. So it is a concern,” Texōccoatl finished.

"I do not know what the situation with the Chiu cousins is, but I can assure you that my sister has worked her way up the ranks just the same as anyone else and is an excellent officer," President Arnott couldn't keep all the ice out of her tone, though she tried. Family was always a sore point with her. "I can send you redacted versions of the personnel files for the possible candidates for you to choose from, if you wish."

”That will not be necessary. I believe your sister sounds like an excellent choice, although the final decision is of course yours,” Texōccoatl replied, hoping that he had not offended Arnott. He had seen, during his time in the Xiomeran military, the negative effects an unqualified officer could wreak on their unit - or their mission. There was just too much at risk in the weeks ahead for that. “No matter what, we will be very grateful for whoever you send to help us.”

"She's well trained," Arnott relaxed a little, knowing he didn't mean to offend her. "Comes across as rather blunt for one of her social class, has a way of telling it like it is. She's also pro-reform, which is rare for the upper ranks of our military."

”It proved to be rare in our upper ranks as well, unfortunately,” Texōccoatl said wryly. “But it sounds like she will get along quite well with our people then. Especially the blunt part.”

"Just as a further warning, aside from some of those who were in Lauchenoiria, most of our people don't have much experience working with... men," she winced. "But it shouldn't be a problem. Is there anything else you want to discuss?"

”Not at present. I will be sure that any of our people who interact with yours are well-versed on how Kerlian society works to avoid any issues. I thank you once again for this call, and I look forward to seeing what we can accomplish together.” Texōccoatl’s voice brightened. “Hopefully soon, we’ll be able to accept thanks from my mother in person as well.”

"I hope so too. I was glad to see her alive, though furious about what they had clearly done. I look forward to when whoever did it is brought to justice."

”As do I. And they will be. Thank you again, madam President. I hope you have a pleasant day.” Texōccoatl hung up the phone with a feeling that things were finally beginning to go the way of his government.

[Xiomera]

August 25
Tlālacuetztla

Colonel Catequiac, previously the commander of the garrison in Citlamina, lay slumped at the foot of the Obsidian Throne. Emperor Xochiuhue calmly handed his dagger to a servant. "Clean this," he said, "and remove that," he added, pointing to the now-deceased colonel.

Standing a prudent distance away, General Zinahue coughed nervously. "Your Majesty.....far be it from me to question you, I assure you, but....I'm not sure you can keep killing everyone who fails in their command, sir."

"I'm pretty sure I can," the Emperor replied, sitting back on the throne as two servants removed Catequiac.

"It's just....well, sir, eventually we will run out of experienced officers...." Zinahue murmured.

"What good is their experience to me, or the Empire, if they fail?" Xochiuhue snapped. "Besides, we have plenty of officers. One could argue that perhaps we have too many," the Emperor added, looking pointedly at Zinahue. The General coughed again. "As you say, your Majesty," he demurred. "Shall we plan a counter-offensive to restore control over the Netlcoātl Islands?"

"No. Not yet. I wouldn't be surprised, frankly, if this little uprising on the Islands is a ploy by the Legionites to lure us out of our defensive positions on the mainland into their backyard. We will wait. The mainland is more important; we can recover the Netlcoātl Islands at our leisure once we have defeated the traitors responsible for this insurrection." The Emperor picked up his tablet, looking at a satellite map. "The offensive at Chuaztlapoc is beginning, yes?"

"It is, your Majesty. Our forces are launching their operation even as we speak. Within a few days, we should break the resistance at Chuaztlapoc, and have the former Empress back in our custody," General Zinahue said confidently. Xochiuhue gazed at him with a cynical expression. "Do not count out Yauhmi, or the people fighting for her, so quickly," the Emperor warned. "We made that mistake once already, and look where we are now. I want Army Corps V and the Air Force to throw everything they've got at the enemy in Chuaztlapoc. No mercy, no hesitation and no limitations. If we don't squash Yauhmi and her insurrection now, we're going to have a long and unnecessary fight ahead of us."

General Zinahue nodded. "Also, your Majesty, I am concerned about certain movements from Texōccoatl's forces and those supporting him. The First Fleet and the Eirian fleet accompanying them are approaching the area around Zapotlán and the Neck," Zinahue said. "Also, there appear to be some mobilizations of the enemy forces we've been tracking in Milintica, and our surveillance even reports some unusual troop movements in Kerlile. I am concerned that Texōccoatl is about to try something to rescue his mother, or to launch an operation aimed at toppling our government."

Xochiuhue snorted. "Texōccoatl is just a pretty boy whose entire Army career was decorating the capital with an ornamental command because he was Topilpopoca's son. I'm not worried about him, nor am I worried about Techilō's one fleet and the token fleet the Eirians sent with her. You can move a division or two more to Zapotlán from the capital command if you're concerned, but no more than that. This is all a bluff. Texōccoatl's got nothing, and he knows it. Even any troop movements in Kerlile are a bluff - after what happened to them in Lauchenoiria, they'd be particularly dense to involve themselves in our affairs. If there is an attack, it will not be at Zapotlán. It will be in the west, and it will be the Legionites and the Eirians. Keep our forces positioned to the south and west. I don't want our defenses against the real attack stretched thin because you're scared by some ghosts at the Neck."

General Zinahue nodded, saluting the Emperor and turning to walk out. Damnit. I'm pretty sure you're wrong, but I also don't want to be sharing space in the morgue with Catequiac, Zinahue thought as he left.

Huānoch, Milintica

"The time for you to act is almost here," General Tlehuaque said.

At Fort Amacatl, the General was speaking to the commanders of the units that were soon to depart to Zapotlán. The total number of troops had risen from 19,000 to 21,500 due to some timely defections from the Xiomeran armed forces and some new "volunteers" as well. Their commanders were receiving what was likely to be their final briefing before descending into the hell that awaited anyone trying an amphibious assault against Xiomeran shore defenses, among the most intense anywhere in the IDU. The commanders had already received the actual details of the battle plan. This was the part where the technical details needed to be matched with a boost to morale, after the commanders had seen just how daunting those defenses could be.

"I could give you some rah-rah speech, but I figured that before you go off to save Xiomera, that you might want to hear it from an actual Xiomeran instead," Tlehuaque said. He turned to a nearby screen with a flourish, punching at a keyboard. "Where's the damn code to log in....how do you access this damned Xiomeran technology...ah! There," the General said with a note of triumph. On the screen, Crown Prince Texōccoatl appeared. "Greetings to all of you. I won't take up much of your time, as I know you have a lot of preparation to do for both yourselves and your troops. But before you prepare, I wanted to take this moment to thank you for your loyalty - not just to the true leaders of Xiomera, but to our vision of the future. Xochiuhue wants to keep Xiomera in the past, even if he has to kill every Xiomeran to do it. You're about to face the toughest fight in your lives - there's no way to sugarcoat that. But every single one of you is in this fight for the right reasons. Xochiuhue has already shown that he intends to be the most brutal Emperor Xiomera has ever had - even worse than his father. You're not just fighting to restore an Empress, or a government. That's not even the most important reason you're in this fight. Every single one of you, and all of your troops, are fighting to save Xiomera and its people from a tyrant and a murderer. You're fighting for the future of our people, and for their lives here and now. Every single one of you is a hero, and you will prove that at Zapotlán. The future of Xiomera and its people rests in your hands, and there are no better hands to place it in. You won't be alone either - the true friends of Xiomera will stand with us at Zapotlán too. And know this - I don't intend to sit in safety in Laeral while you risk your lives. I was, and am, a Xiomeran soldier, and I will be there at Zapotlán with you as we fight for the lives of our people and the future of our homeland." Texōccoatl nodded firmly. "This fight will be harder than anything you have ever experienced. But rely on and trust each other, stand with each other, and have each others' backs, and you'll make it through. Lead your troops in that spirit, and there is no way we can lose this fight. And I will be there with you, to share the burden and the struggle - and the triumph when we take Zapotlán and begin the ending of Xochiuhue's tyranny once and for all." Texōccoatl ended his speech with a sharp salute. "See you at Zapotlán."

The commanders of the loyalist Xiomeran forces didn't cheer or applaud after the speech. The situation was still too grim for that. But as they left the briefing room, every single one of them had no doubt that they would take Zapotlán and the Neck of Huenya - and strangle Xochiuhue's regime there.

Château de Clamur, Neidong, Laeral

"Nice speech. But with all due respect, your Majesty, you're still being a stubborn and pigheaded fool," Brigadier General Tlanexchel said flatly.

Texōccoatl sighed, in the manner of someone who had already had this argument a dozen times with the same person and really didn't want to do so again. "I am still stubborn and pigheaded, yes. And I am still going to Zapotlán."

"It is entirely too much of a risk! If things go badly, we could lose your mother at Chuaztlapoc, and your wife and child as well," Tlanexchel said angrily. "We cannot afford to lose you as well. If you were to be captured or killed, if the Zapotlán operation fails - "

"The Zapotlán operation cannot fail, damnit!" Texōccoatl shouted. He glared at Tlanexchel. "My mother, wife and child are about to have an entire Army corps thrown at them at Chuaztlapoc. Xochiuhue is tightening the screws on the entire country. We do not have any more time. And I will not hide in Laeral any longer like a coward while my family faces an onslaught from a madman, and while my country and my people are having the life strangled out of them by a tyrant. What kind of Crown Prince am I if I hide here while better men and women go off to die for my cause? How do I deserve that title if I stay here? You mention my family. If I let them face an army alone, if I lose them, and never even left this house to try to save or defend them, I won't have anything left to live for anyway. Nor will I deserve to live."

"You would still have our country and our people." Tlanexchel shook his head. "I understand how you feel, Texōccoatl. I am going fairly insane myself, wondering if my own family is alive or dead back home. But we have to maintain the chain of command and the government."

"No. Xochiuhue will destroy our country if we don't stop him now. He will rampage through our people like a reaper. He'll start a war with half the world and Xiomera will be crushed. For me and mine, and for our people, there is no other time, and no other way. Either we win at Zapotlán and at Chuaztlapoc, or it's all over. Xiomera will be dead, and its people with it. I wasn't just blowing smoke out of my ass with that speech - this is the defining fight for our future. We have to win. And I have to be there," Texōccoatl said with finality.

Tlanexchel sighed after a moment. "If you really are determined to charge into battle like one of the Emperors of old, I suppose it's my job to keep you alive, then."

Texōccoatl finally smiled. "I am a soldier, it's my job to keep myself alive. But I definitely won't turn down your help with that, Tlanexchel. Or anyone else's." The Jaguar Warrior nodded in response. "Then I will walk with you into the fight. All or nothing."

Chuaztlapoc

Chuaztlapoc was unlike most Xiomeran cities. Where most Xiomeran cities of significance were sprawling, hectic and bustling places, the ancient home of the Shorn Ones had always been a place of quiet contemplation and respect.

Today, Chuaztlapoc was quiet in a far more eerie fashion - and for a completely different reason.

Anyone resembling a civilian in Chuaztlapoc had already fled the city. Since Chuaztlapoc was the home of the fiercest group of warriors in the Xiomeran Empire, that hadn't been as many people as one might expect. Out of a peacetime population of 46,715, 10,104 people had remained behind to defend their city. Armed with whatever weapons the arsenals of the Shorn Ones and the city's tlacochcalcatl could spare, they had joined the other defenders of Chuaztlapoc. Their numbers had been bolstered by defectors from the Xiomeran armed forces, and people from around the country who had managed to hear Yauhmi's call for aid and get to the city. Combined with the others who had come to defend the city, a total of 27,254 people of varying ages, physical abilities, martial skill and armaments were preparing to face off with the 50,000 troops of Army Corps V.

On paper, it was an extremely unfair matchup. Unlike the highly mechanized and well-equipped Army Corps V, the defenders of Chuaztlapoc had almost no armor, save for the vehicles that Huatli's battalion and a few Civil Guards had managed to get to the city. The defenders of Chuaztlapoc also had almost no anti-air defenses, and very limited anti-tank defenses other than physical barriers.

Yauhmi, pacing the walls of the old quarter of the city, knew that if she didn't do something creative, things would not go well. She could only hope that her last card to play before the battle began would work.

She saw the clouds of dust in the distance before one of the Shorn Ones came to warn her. She already knew. "The attack is beginning, your Majesty," the Shorn One said. Yauhmi simply nodded, following him back into the Hall of Chuaztlapoc.

Inside the Hall, Etlahuatzitl and Major Huatli were waiting. "Our outermost perimeter is reporting contact with Army forces at multiple locations, both on the main roads into the city and the surrounding countryside. They are taking heavy fire from armored and mechanized units and trying to hold position, but they are severely outgunned," Etlahuatzitl said.

Yauhmi nodded. "Are we ready to launch our plan?"

"Almost, we're working on it now," Major Huatli replied, leading Yauhmi to a computer terminal. "We are almost ready, right? Seeing as we don't have a great deal of time," she said to the specialist seated at the terminal. Spc. Qualpoca nodded eagerly. Qualpoca, prior to his stint in Huatli's battalion, had been a skilled hacker. This was the sort of thing he loved to do. "I'm almost there, Major....I've been working this trick for hours, trying to break into the Corps V XMI frequency....this isn't exactly an easy thing to do..."

"We know, Qualpoca," Huatli said patiently. "But if we're going to pull this off, now would be the time."

"Got it!" Qualpoca shouted, letting out a triumphant howl. "I mean, um....intrusion successful, Major," Spc. Qualpoca said in a more formal military tone. Yauhmi smiled. "It's okay, I'm as excited as you are," Yauhmi replied, as Qualpoca hastily vacated his seat to let her sit down. "You put on this headset, your Majesty, and press these buttons here..." the Specialist said. "Now you're on the attacking forces' XMI frequency, and can speak."

Qualpoca had taken advantage of one of the weaknesses of the Xiomeran military. Xiomeran Military Intelligence, via their political officers assigned to the military, had a special frequency that could be used to communicate to commanders in the field, or even individual soldiers. It was used to ensure compliance with orders, or to countermand actions that were either not allowed or wanted by the political officers. Through a particularly deft bit of hacking, Qualpoca had just given Yauhmi access to communicate directly with the attacking force. And she intended to use it.

"To the soldiers of Army Corps V: this is Yauhmi, your Empress. You are attacking Chuaztlapoc, one of the most ancient and holy cities in Xiomera, on the orders of Xochiuhue, who has stolen the Obsidian Throne and seeks to steal the entire country. You are being asked to destroy this holy city and its history, to slaughter thousands of people, and to throw me back into the prison cell that Xochiuhue had me tortured in after he overthrew me by force. He is telling you that I am a threat to the country. He is lying to you and misleading you. He is ordering you to commit horrible acts, and to split our country apart, just so he can rule. You do not have to obey his orders. You can choose differently, no matter what anyone else is telling you. You can choose to commit a horrible wrong, one that neither history nor our people will ever forgive, here at Chuaztlapoc - or you can say no. You can refuse to follow a man who is willing to destroy this entire city, and slaughter everyone here, just for his own power. You don't have to let him use you as the instruments of such a wanton crime. You can join us, and you can stop this."

As Yauhmi continued to speak, at the headquarters camp of Army Corps V, the chief political officer came running into the command center. Temocui, the chief political officer, angrily grabbed one of the communications officers on duty. "How the hell did she get into our command frequency? Stop it, shut it down!" he shouted.

As the communications officers and other political officers frantically tried to figure out how Yauhmi had managed to infiltrate their systems, Temocui shouted in frustration and ran outside. Grabbing a missile launcher, he fired it at the transmitter attached to the command center. As other soldiers ran for cover, the transmitter exploded.

"Are you insane? You could have blown up the entire command center!" another man shouted as he ran up to Temocui. Lt. Gen Axtlan, the commander of Army Corps V, was apoplectic. "And now we'll have to use backup communications!"

"Good. The backups are less likely to be hacked, especially if we use different channels periodically. And it couldn't be helped, that speech could not be allowed to continue," Temocui said, not at all intimidated by Axtlan's rank. The lieutenant general looked at the smoldering remains of the transmitter and cursed. He would have dearly loved to have Temocui at the business end of a missile launcher himself for pulling such a stunt. But he knew he couldn't touch someone with XMI.

Back at the Hall of Chuaztlapoc, Qualpoca jumped back onto the terminal, trying to re-establish the link. "I think they're on to me, your Majesty. Sorry," Qualpoca said.

"It's quite allright, you accomplished an extraordinary feat even getting me into that channel in the first place," Yauhmi replied, giving the crestfallen Qualpoca a gentle pat on the shoulder. "Let's just hope my words are enough."

Everyone in the Hall simply nodded. The battle for Chuaztlapoc had begun.

[Lauchenoiria]

Watchdogs of Our Earth HQ (aka a squat in an abandoned warehouse), Usera, Lauchenoiria

Reyes Calvo impatiently tapped his fingers against a crate that had been co-opted and turned into a desk as he waited for Lupe Casales to check in. His impatience was in part due to fear that something had happened to their people in Milintica, in part due to the early hour of the morning thanks to the time difference, and in part due to the shortage of testosterone thanks to the state of the economy.

“Pick up…” he muttered under his breath as he eyed the cheap tablet he was using to repeatedly attempt to video call Casales. When yet another call went unanswered, he hissed in frustration and threw a tennis ball at the wall. It bounced off and rolled away under the makeshift planks of wood that divided their HQ into what passed for rooms. Then he redialled.

“H… not good… interference,” came Lupe’s voice as she finally answered.

“Sorry? I can barely hear you,” Reyes responded.

“… some kind of block… fine, for now but… Shuell.”

“Shuell? What about Shuell?” he perked up, a sense of urgency in his voice. Any mention of Shuell from someone presently in a warzone was never good.

“… might not happen, but you never… lie low for now… hello?”

“I’m here, Lupe, what’s happening? Are you safe?”

“Hello? I can’t… hello?”

“Lupe, stay away from Shuellians, you hear me? You’ve done good work in Milintica, please come home safe at the end of it all.”

Lupe’s voice dipped in volume as she turned away from her screen and said something in Xiomeran to another person nearby. A Milintican appeared briefly, fiddling with something, and then the screen went dark, the call disconnected.

“Fuck!” Reyes yelled, cracking the tablet screen as he slammed it against the crate. “Of all the goddamned…”

“You ok?” a voice said, as someone he vaguely recognised pulled back the curtain that acted as a door to the small ‘room’ he was in.

“No, can you tell everyone in the Milintica working group to meet in the loft in fifteen? Just had a kinda concerning call with Lupe,” he asked them.

“Is that the political pressure Milintica group or the war one?” they asked, revealing their lack of knowledge on Lupe’s identity.

“The war one,” he replied. “Could probably do with the general coordinators being there as well, this is kind of important.”

“Oh, Luca resigned as a coordinator because he wants to get involved with the arts group and nobody else wants to do it so we’re splitting up the media role with the admin role into two new working groups, if you want to join I can…”

“I don’t have time for this,” Reyes snapped irritably, then pushed past the figure at the curtain to enter the main warehouse.

“There’s a workshop on Non-Violent Communication at 8pm in the city if you’re interested!” the person called after him, a hint of sarcasm in their voice. Reyes resisted the urge to give them the finger.

“Milintica Armed Action group meeting in fifteen minutes in the loft! Tell everyone!” he shouted so that his words echoed around the warehouse. Several people waved in acknowledgement as he walked over to the kitchen area and poured himself a glass of water. They’d managed to connect to the mains water supply a week earlier, it was a relief not to have to cart containers of water from the city.

Reyes pushed out one of the slightly broken doors and walked out into the early morning Yervian sun, sighing. The person who’d poked their head into his little ‘office’ was clearly one of the new members, who didn’t know the protocol and who thought that violence was never the answer. He’d entertained that idea once, but the Chaher regime had stamped any last vestige of it out of him.

“Come on, Lupe, please be alright…” he whispered to the sun as he drank his water.

*

Pierre Residence, Kerlile

Councillor Pauline Pierre sat in a room in her basement that had once been a bedroom for a guard when her family used to store prisoners down there. She was hiding from her youngest three daughters, staring at the wall on which she’d stuck a hundred photographs of her eldest, the missing Olivia. Pauline had never gotten along with Olivia, and an outside observer would’ve sworn that Pauline hated her eldest daughter, but that wasn’t quite true.

Pauline did not hate Olivia, Pauline loved Olivia. But Pauline also viewed Olivia as a political rival, as a threat, and Pauline had always put logic and pragmatism above her emotions. It was in fact true that she’d once (twice) hired assassins to end the life of her eldest daughter, but it was only when Olivia vanished that she realised this had been a grave mistake. Despite what she thought, Pauline was not a robot, and her emotions were now out and rather clear.

“Okay, so she met up with Xia first in Shuell, then Xia seems to have joined their reformist group, and then she and Xia go to Lauchenoiria… they’re taken by some Chaherian group, Aurora Renee attempts a rescue but someone else takes Olivia… what am I missing?”

Pauline bit her lip and reviewed the photos; a mix of grainy CCTV stills and high-quality professional photography from Council-funded parties. There was nothing of Olivia after she and Xia were taken by the rogue Lauchenoirian intelligence agents, and after much thought and digging, Pauline was quite sure Olivia was no longer in the custody of any Lauchenoirian faction. It didn’t make sense.

“Whoever took her timed it so that Renee did half the work for them,” she mused aloud, calling Veronica Penners by her training-name. “So, either it was a hell of a coincidence, or they knew.”

Pauline frowned then, thinking of who would’ve known of the Aurora’s mission. The remnants of the Aurora unit in Kerlile, Alvarez’s inner circle… the Kerlian Aurora remnant was too small and too well-vetted for it to have come from there, Pauline had checked all the members herself. But Lauchenoirian security left a lot to be desired.

She picked up her phone and dialled. “Yes, can you schedule me a telephone appointment with Prime Minister Alvarez? I think she has a mole working for her, tell her I want to help.”

[Xiomera]

August 29th
Chuaztlapoc

Part 1

The following is a broadcast smuggled to Milintica’s Voice of the People national news service by a Xiomeran field journalist at Chuaztlapoc. They are standing on top of the ancient stone wall surrounding the center of the city. Gunfire and explosions can be heard, along with the sound of aircraft overhead.

“The city has been under siege for several days now, but so far, the Imperial Army forces have not been able to advance further than the initial perimeter. At first, they pushed the defending forces back pretty quickly towards the old city wall around the center of Chuaztlapoc. But the advance of the Imperial forces slowed considerably after the Empress made a personal appeal directly to the attacking forces. As the Imperial forces advanced into the city itself and got even closer to the city wall, the loyalist forces defending the city set up loudspeakers and video screens on the wall to broadcast messages urging the attacking forces to switch sides. The attacking forces eventually did shoot those down, but the propaganda effort by the loyalist forces seems to have had the desired effect.”

The reporter gestures to the area outside the wall.

“The Imperial forces are still advancing, but at a much slower rate than before. It appears that the determined resistance of the city defenders, coupled with the propaganda, has sapped the motivation of the attacking forces to a great degree -“

The reporter suddenly turns away from the camera, his expression shocked.

“The attacking forces have stopped their advance and there seems to be some kind of disturbance taking place in their ranks - now some of the units have begun to move back towards the outskirts of the city - wait a minute - “

The sound of several huge explosions is heard. The reporter disappears from view, the camera shot tilting upwards to show massive clouds rising into the sky.

[Xiomera]

August 29
Chuaztlapoc

Part 2

Lt. Gen Axtlan, the commander of Army Corps V, was not a happy man.

His troops had made great progress in their assault on Chuaztlapoc, at first.

The mechanized might of an Imperial army corps, in its fearsomely fast headlong launch at an enemy, had sent the loyalist defenders of the city reeling. Some portions of the loyalist perimeter, such as those held by Shorn Ones, Major Huatli's battalion and the former Civil Guard units, had managed to stand up to the Army reasonably well. But the rest of the perimeter, manned by armed civilians, had collapsed like a house of cards that had been soaked in water and then been placed in a wind tunnel.

The civilian defenders of Chuaztlapoc, no matter how passionate or determined, had no idea what they would be facing when an entire mechanized Xiomeran army was launched at them. They had found out the hard way, as the first three days of the assault passed. Watching their comrades mowed down by the hundreds, the civilian units had collapsed, their members utterly demoralized by the assault. The other defenders - the ones with actual military experience - had increasingly been forced to shore up the crumbling civilian units. After three days, the line had steadily been forced back, from the countryside around Chuaztlapoc well into the city itself. Now, the inner wall around the old quarter of the city was the only line of defense left.

The defenders of Chuaztlapoc had been steadily broadcasting propaganda messages to the attacking units, trying to get them to stop their attack. Trying anything they could think of, to stop what seemed like an impacable advance towards the Hall of Chuaztlapoc, where the Empress and her last defenders were waiting for what seemed like the end.

The attack was progressing, but not quickly enough for Lt. Gen Axtlan. His forces had taken relatively minor losses, at least compared to the Chuaztlapoc defenders. But they had taken more losses than he had expected - a fact that did not make Emperor Xochiuhue happy, as he was quick to remind the General on almost a daily basis. Under immense pressure to end the resistance in Chuaztlapoc once and for all, Lt. Gen Axtlan decided enough was enough.

"Get the damned commander at Yaulhuanan on the line," he snapped at his communications officer. Yaulhuanan was the closest air base to Chuaztlapoc, and its 12th Air Wing had been assigned to support the assault on the city.

Col. Avitori, the commander of the 12th Wing, listened tiredly to Axtlan raving on the other end of the line. Axtlan had been quite vocal about the Air Force's perceived deficiencies, lack of toughness, and general lack of support for the Chuaztlapoc operation. Avitori, frankly, was quite tired of Axtlan. But he had his orders. He ordered a squadron of Apacan fighters, accompanying five Toco strategic bombers, to depart for Chuaztlapoc. Their orders: to use their missiles and bombs to wipe the wall of the city, which had stood for over 400 years, off of the face of the planet. After that, they were to destroy the Hall of Chuaztlapoc.

Such a mission would result in much of the ancient city center of Chuaztlapoc being destroyed, leveling a priceless religious, cultural and historic site. It would also result in the final destruction of the Shorn Ones, and the death of the Empress. All of this was of little concern to Axtlan, facing Xochiuhue's anger. Avitori was not as content. As the planes took off, he prayed to his gods for forgiveness.

The squadron flew silently towards Chuaztlapoc. None of the pilots had much to say.

On the ground at Chuaztlapoc, the mood was equally as somber, but nowhere near as quiet. In the operations center at the Hall of Chuaztlapoc, Etlahuatzitl and Major Huatli eyed the radar screens with resignation. The defenders of Chuaztlapoc had expended their limited air defenses over the previous three days; they had nothing left to stop the planes coming towards the city. Huatli felt a profound sense of anger and frustration, but also defeat. She could beat most people in combat, but she couldn't knock planes out of the sky.

Seated next to Etlahuatzitl and Major Huatli, Yauhmi silently closed her eyes and issued a prayer of her own. She had nothing else left. Next to her, Tlalmaxxi held Tonauac tightly, as if her embrace could fend off what was coming and keep the boy safe.

In another part of the Hall of Chuaztlapoc, Cozamalotl calmly read a book as Cuetzhual and Natcahuacu looked at him in astonishment. "We're about to get blown away, and you're just sitting there reading?" Cuetzhual shouted. Cozamalotl looked up for a moment. "If I'm going to die, I might as well go out doing something I love," he said, turning back to his book. After a moment, Cuetzhual and Natcahuacu sat down next to him to wait for what was coming.

As the squadron arrived in the target zone, the squadron commander, Macoyotli, looked down. Below him, he could see the units moving towards the city. They had halted their advance, waiting for the planes to approach and perform their bombing run. Armed with potent CDS-80 laser-guided "bunker busters" and CDS-192 cruise missiles, the warplanes would make short work of Chuaztlapoc's ancient barriers and buildings.

Macoyotli sighed to himself. "Approaching target area, sir. Do we commence firing?" his wingman asked. Macoyotli could not say anything. "Sir? Do we commence firing?" his wingman prompted again.

After a moment, Macoyotli pressed the button to respond. "Have I ever led you all wrong?" he asked his pilots. After a moment, a series of responses from the pilots affirmed he had not. "I am going to ask you to do something that will probably get us all killed, if we do it. Anyone that doesn't want to follow me is free to continue on with this mission. But I will not go down in history as the man who killed an Empress, killed the Shorn Ones and countless civilians and other Xiomeran warriors, and wiped one of our most important historic monuments off the map. If you can do that, that is your fate. But I cannot. Are any of you with me?"

Silence greeted him on the radio frequency. Macoyotli began to wonder if one of his own pilots was about to shoot him down. Finally, the silence was broken. "I'm with you, sir," his wingman said. "I don't want this blood on my hands either. I swore to serve the Empire. Slaughtering our people isn't serving anyone."

One by one, the other pilots echoed that sentiment. Not one broke. Macoyotli was pleased - he had trained them right after all.

"I have an alternate target for us, then," Macoyotli said. "Follow me."

Back on the ground at the Hall of Chuaztlapoc, Etlahuatzitl and Major Huatli looked at the radar screen in amazement. "The planes were on approach to the city - now they're turning. They appear to be moving to the east," Major Huatli said. "I'm not sure what's happening here."

In the air above the battlefield, the squadron moved as a single deadly arrow to their new target.

On the ground, at the headquarters camp of Army Corps V, Lt. Gen Axtlan and Temocui looked at their own radar screens in astonishment. "What are they doing? Are there some defenses at Chuzatlapoc that we didn't know about that made them turn back?" Axtlan asked in bewilderment. Looking at the trajectory the planes were taking, Temocui suddenly leaped from his chair. "Get Avitori on the line now! And get our air defenses on line!" the political officer shouted.

As Axtlan continued to look bewildered, Temocui angrily grabbed the communications officer. "Tell our air defenses we're under attack! Shoot those damn planes down!" he yelled, his voice taking on an edge of hysteria.

As the squadron moved to their new heading, Macoyotli thumbed his mike again. "Heads up, the Army isn't as dumb as we joke they are. Someone down there has to know what I'm doing. Be ready for anti-air defenses," he warned. With acknowledgements from the pilots, the warplanes moved into a protective position to screen the bombers.

Anti-air missiles began to soar into the sky around the headquarters camp, as the squadron grew ever closer. Despite Macoyotli's warning, a fighter took a missile to the right wing, spiraling towards the ground in a fireball. Another fighter took a missile to the tailfin, spinning out of control. "Protect the bombers!" Macoyotli shouted, as the missile fire grew more intense. "And you bomber jockeys - you know what to do."

As the squadron finally arrived at its new target, another fighter was downed, and yet another. But just as had been planned, what was about to happen to the target was inevitable. It was just a different target.

One by one, the bombers dropped their bombs. The headquarters of Army Corps V disappeared in the light of a fireball that even Huītzilōpōchtli would have envied.

As the ground shook as far away as the Hall of Chuaztlapoc, Yauhmi opened her eyes. "I know what's happening here, Huatli," she said. "Our prayers have been answered."

Back at Yaulhuanan, Col. Avitori sat upright in his chair as his second rushed in. "Sir, Macoyotli's reporting in. They, um, did not proceed against Chuaztlapoc, sir."

Avitori wordlessly reached for the headset his second was offering. He listened to Macoyotli for a moment. "I see. So, do I assume that Yaulhuanan will be the next thing to get bombed off the map if I don't agree? Hmm. Very well. I suppose I am part of the rebellion now, then. We'll discuss the details when you land. And Macoyotli...you did the right thing. What I should have done."

As his second looked at him in shock, Col. Avitori sighed. "What? I never liked Axtlan anyway."

---

On the ground at Chuaztlapoc, with the loss of their command center, Army Corps V found itself without leadership. The result was chaos.

Some units tried to press forward with the attack on Chuaztlapoc, only to find themselves under fire from other Army units who had decided that was a bad idea. The commanders of some other units, if they disagreed with the idea of changing sides, found themselves removed from command - and removed from life, if they insisted on arguing the point.

As Army Corps V turned on itself, and fire and smoke rose from what was left of its command center, the defenders of Chuaztlapoc watched from the city wall. Eventually, as it usually does, the chaos resolved itself.

Several hours after the command center of Army Corps V had gone up in its fiery demise, a group of Army commanders approached the city wall under a flag of truce. What was left of Army Corps V had decided that, indeed, Yauhmi was still the Empress after all.