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Messages - Beatrice

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Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Plot To Destroy Rokkenjiman Democracy
« on: March 27, 2024, 09:28:22 PM »
"It also sends a message that can't be confused, doesn't it?" he said as he employed the tactic upon Howard Bailey who in his present state offered no response. "A pity, at least a flinch would've been rewarding, bu...hold on," Kado said as his ear piece shrieked. "Oh that dumb bastard," he said as he shared a view of his screen with Rion, "someone attempted a hit on Lucinda, those poor bastards won't last but a season in a Rokkenjiman prison. I'd leave here now but," he said looking down on Howard, "I've work to do before me. But when I get my hands on him, I imagine it'll only be right to give him an ounce of what she experienced. I must add," Kado paused, "she's different, you know, these days? I still don't know what do do with that, an emotional and feeling Lucinda isn't anything I ever imagined, but something's awakened in her and, I don't know if any of us are equipped for that."

"I see," she said as she retired into her seat. "We'll have troubled waters to navigate, but navigate them we will, Rokkenjimans do not retreat from such waters, we push through them," Asuna said with a reassuring smile. "At the end of the day she's sacrificed so much to protect me so," she said as she looked out the window, "I will sacrifice all I must to protect her, damn the consequences when you stand on principle. You betray your beliefs and principles when it matters most and those same principles are meaningless. Even if it means I have to stand up to the Morelanders, I'm ready, I promise."

"But of course," Beatrice would say, before hugging Lucinda. When alone with Peter Lucinda offered a confused expression, "What possibly could you hope to garner from me in conversation?" she asked as she reverted to her more understood and recognizable emotionless persona. "I was but a mere servant of the Empress, now a friend of the Empress being relieved of my previous constraints. I'm sorry, Sir, I don't know if I'm worth your time in this moment," she continued with a monotone voice.

3


Grand Duchy Of Fukadomari Is Official


The Grand Duchess addressed Fukadomari upon the results of the votes.

With votes in Josai and Fukadomari returning results of 75% and 69%, respectfully, the Grand Duchy of Fukadomari is set to replace the Grand Duchy of Josai. "The People of Fukadomari have spoken with a determined and undeniable voice," the Grand Duchess shared with the RBC, "that the present arrangement is not working, and that all who call Fukadomari home deserve an equal voice in the Imperial Diet. Upon the successful conclusions of our respective votes I informed the Empress of the will of the People and she has recognized our decisions, granting the green light for Josai to reverse incorporate into Fukadomari and formally establish the Grand Duchy of Fukadomari. I am proud of the result we have reached, just as much as I am hesitant as while I have ruled Josai, I've many, many more millions of voices to consider as we move forward together into the future."

The Grand Duchess confirmed that, just as Rishiri, the Grand Duchy would enjoy full autonomy over its foreign affairs, "opening doors for Fukadomari to engage with the world in a way which benefits us and our unique position in the Dauntel Sea. Here we sit between four nations, those being Rokkenjima, Tytor, Fusan and Abertone, a position I feel which can be naturally levied to enrich the lives of Fukadomarians and Rokkenjimans alike; Sentāpōto is already the busiest port throughout Rokkenjima due to its natural position as a key transit point between Rokkenjiman shipping and the northern hemisphere. If we enhance that position by offering incentives, including discounted rates for shipping from Sentāpōto not only to Rokkenjima but to Fusan as well, I firmly believe we can increase traffic through Sentāpōto by at least 50% within the current year."

The discussion with the press soon turned to the competition the Grand Duchess exited and posted about recently, to which the Grand Duchess offered a shrug. "We'll see where they stand, in some aspects I'm not fully in control of regarding my future, you see," she shared with our reporter. "It remains a fact that I have experience any potential competitor doesn't have, in a sense I'm battle tested there, and with each day I'll gain more experience which would be valuable to a foreign suitor. Still, it remains within the remit of the competition itself whether that venture moves forward or not. In the mean time, I'll be at work for the People of Rokkenjima as Princess, and the People of Fukadomari as their Grand Duchess, and I won't waste one moment in either pursuit."

4


Empress, Grand Duchess Host Charity Gala


The Empress finds her attention captured by the Earl of Eastwood whilst Grand Duchess Sophia enjoys a dance with Chen-ri, royal head of the erstwhile Kaeje state which once existed upon Fukadomari.

Kajūkuri served as the backdrop for the first annual Charity Gala, gathering influential individuals from across the Empire in addition to guests from foreign nations. Benefiting ongoing aid efforts to war torn Kalasin and the Azukishima Prefecture Orphanage, causes close to the hearts of the Imperial Family, an estimated र10.9m ($20.2m) from ticket sales, sponsorships from Abstergo Industries, Rosa Shipyards, Imperial Standard Energy and Crystal Mountain Records, live auction and donations. Artists from Rokkenjima and Dartfordia provided a variety of live entertainment, while the Ashinxao Symphony Orchestra performed live for the ball itself. Both the Empress and the Grand Duchess were in attendance, with the Empress being joined by the Earl of Eastwood, Tytor, and the Grand Duchess being joined by the royal head of the erstwhile Kaeje state which once governed Fukadomari. Following the fall of the Kaeje state his family navigated the following circumstances to remain a wealthy and influential family within the Empire.

Joining the party of the Empress was Hal Morgan (the richest man in Tytor) and the Duke and Duchess of Vigil, parents of Thomas, the Earl of Eastwood.

An extensive list of Fusanese attended the Charity Gala including Chikao Rokuda (Chairman of the Zayasu Corporation, which is the largest trading company in Fusan), Hironori Okuno, Group President of Zayasu UFF Financial Group, Fumio Oketani, President of Isuzu Motors (a major automotive manufacturer), Baron Haruki Shinohara, President of Arasaka (an electronics manufacturer), Yukari Sato, Chairwoman of Ito-Yokado (a major retailer in Fusan), and Haruo Mizutani, a prominent Fusanese art collector. Corporate sponsors from Fusan include Zayasu, Ito-Yokado, Isuzu Motors and Nakamura Trading Company.

The slate of artists from Rokkenjima included Babymetal, Hatsune Miku, YOASOBI and Queens of the Stone Age. Dartfordian stalwarts Muse were joined by a few special guests following them on a personal request from the Empress which saw Paul McCartney and Ringo Star, the surviving members of the Beatles, to join Julian Lennon and Dhani Harrison, sons of John Lennon and George Harrison, receptively, unite to play a selection of songs as The Beatles for one, final, time. Speaking with the RBC McCartney stated "it was never our intention, never, to do something like this, trust me we'd been approached before for such reunion ideas but we always said no because the magic can never be re-bottled. However for the causes in mind, it would have been difficult for us to say no to something like this, I'd like to think John and George are out there somewhere smiling over it, so we did it, and that the effort is helping people in need made it all the more easier for Ringo and I to say yes."

In addition to funds raised by the Charity Gala itself the Empress pledged to personally match the funds raised, bringing the total figure raised to र21.8m ($40.4m). "I understand that I, and those like me, are fortunate and that there are so many out there that lack the advantages I've had my entire life. What use is a fortune if it is not used to make the world around you a better place? As Empress I have every want and need fulfilled before I even know what they are, yet there are those abroad and, indeed, those within my borders who face hardships I couldn't begin to imagine the toll and impact they would mark my life with. All of us can make more money, we can't make more love, more time nor more precious moments than those which are granted to us by our Gods, Goddesses and creators. We're also all here only for a brief moment in time, a twinkling in the vast history of the cosmos we call home, and while I recognize few can drop millions toward any cause before them, we all have the power to effect positive change in the world we all share, even if it's something as simple as putting a smile on the face of another, donating time, blood or food to those less fortunate, it's the act, certainly, not the quantity which ultimately tips the scales," the Empress shared with the RBC.

For her part the Grand Duchess echoed the comments of the Empress. "Everyone living is empowered to make the world around them better, whether it be as a diplomat in the cause for peace, or one making a donation toward a cause which lessens suffering upon Mundus. While the news is filled with contests between nations, at the end of the day, whether we're Rokkenjiman, Kalasinese, Fusanese...none of that matters, truly. We're all people, seeking to make the best of our lives, to see that those in our lives are looked after well; we all have families, loved ones, friends and ourselves. We've made an impact here tonight but that accomplishment is nothing in the face of what every person who lives on Mundus can do if they seek to make Mundus a better place for all. All and each of us can make an impactful difference on the world around us, we only need to choose to do so."

5
Press Offices / Re: Press Office of Social Media
« on: March 23, 2024, 10:57:39 PM »

6


Proposal For Grand Duchy To Expand Considered


The move would see the Grand Duchy encompass Fukadomari, with the later becoming the Duchy itself.

Grand Duchess Sophia has been involved in a series of talks with the Fukadomari Administration starting a process which would see the Grand Duchy of Josai become the Grand Duchy of Fukadomari. Support for the move is popular with citizens of Fukadomari, who believe that their position within the First Empire would be elevated to a level beyond even that which is held by the Rishiri Imperial Overseas Dependency. "Josai on its own is an economic powerhouse within Rokkenjima, yet we believe that combining Josai and Fukadomari into one entity, the proposed Grand Duchy of Fukadomari, we may see that position strengthened yet further. With the port capacity of Fukadomari, essentially serving as a gateway to the broader Empire, we believe that a Grand Duchy of Fukadomari can stand on equal footing with the Tri-City Megalopolis (Ashinxao, Exuperia and Pyrettania) as an engine of economic growth and opportunity for the Rokkenjiman People," Administrator Arima Mitsuharu shared with the RBC.

The Grand Duchess shared the position of Administrator Arima, stating that "for long Josai has held a special status, yet it would not be maintained without the links and cooperation which have long existed between the Grand Duchy and the Fukadomari Administrative Region. Despite being essentially one city amongst many on our shared island the Grand Duchy holds representation in the Imperial Diet where, as a Administrative Region, Fukadomari holds only a non-voting voice in the Imperial Diet. While we have maintained a cooperative agreement with Fukadomari to see Josai use its voice in the Imperial Diet for the benefit of all who call our island home I do not feel this arrangement is ideal, nor is it one which is sustainable over the long-term. In the coming days I understand that the People of Fukadomari will vote on a measure of incorporation, one which would see Fukadomari incorporate itself into the Grand Duchy, after which we would move to see the Grand Duchy of Josai essentially "reverse incorporate" into Fukadomari to become the Grand Duchy of Fukadomari. I have spoken with the Empress on this proposal and, after a series of talks with her, she has stated that the First Empire would not insert itself in this process and that the Crown would respect the will of the People, whatever they should choose."


Grand Duchess Sophia, Princess of Estvua, was approached by the Fukadomari Administrative Region considering a proposed change to the status of the region.

"Naturally, should this plan be selected by our respective Peoples, Kajūkuri would be maintained as the capital of the new Grand Duchy, with Josai maintaining its status as a holding of the Anselmo Family," the Grand Duchess continued. "Upon the successful conclusion of this process I, myself, would look forward to being a voice for the People of Fukadomari, ensuring that the interests of all on our island are known and acted upon in Pyrettania, while seeing that our position as the gateway to Rokkenjima is something we capitalize on moving forward. I would also seek to take advantage of our relative proximity to Abertone, Floodwater and Tsukishima while introducing a package which would see increased utilization of rail links between the ports and cities of Fukadomari to create an integrated, competitive and profitable Fukadomarian market. For example, we could utilize the Idaina Yama, which is the site of some excavations, for naturally cooled data centres to be established, linked to the broader global economy via our fibre optic connection to Estvua Prefecture. We will have to see how the votes go naturally, however, I promise the People of Josai and those of Fukadomari, I will be ready from day one to lead and utilize our advantages for the benefit of all who call Fukadomari home."

7


Pharaoh Announces Ambitious Reintroduction Program


The Clysperi Lion, which used to have a natural range which spanned from Abydos to Clysperis in the wild, has survived only in Clysperi zoos for the past 60 years.

The Clysperi Lion used to be found in great numbers in Northern Cotf Aranye, stretching from Abydos in the west to Clysperis in the east. This subspecies of lion was well known in antiquity, where it was used in amphitheaters in the Ardian Empire, far removed from its native range, mostly being killed for sport. It was then hunted to extinction in the wild in the mid 20th century, existing today as a population of around 100 individuals in zoos located throughout the Clysperi Kingdom. Working with the Royal Interior Ministry, Pharaoh Akasha Di-‘nh-mi-Re has embarked upon a program to see their successful reintroduction into the wild.

"Their path to extinction in the wild greatly accellerated under the Soviet regime," the Pharaoh shared with CMSC, "with the bastards of Stalin hunting them for bragging rights with their comrades. However, their drive to see the Clysperi Lion become a memory of a bygone era failed and, today, at least 100 of these majestic animals survive under the watchful care of Clysperi zoologists who have been working with Khemnen Palace to see the restoration of a wild population. "We have been increasingly removing them from close human interaction," the Pharaoh said of the last purebred Clysperi lions, "up to the point were a wildlife refuge is seeing the first generation which we are hopeful will succeed in an even less regulated environment. There are great tracts of land in the Southern Lands where they once roamed wild which we are initially eyeing for their reintroduction to a life without human guidance and, from the data I've received, the project looks most hopeful," she continued.

While concerns had previously been held recent Clysperi laws enacted at the behest of the Pharaoh have made any hunting of the Clysperi Lion an act punishable by execution, while cooperation has been secured with land owners in the Southern Lands to ensure "co-existence is possible" as the Clysperi Lion is allowed to extend its habitat from established refuges. "We're taking this process in a series of steps," the Pharaoh added, "steps which we feel will ensure that this venture is successful. As we proceed, future generations of Clysperi will be able to once again see the Clysperi Lion roam proud and free, and while the steps we're taking today may be nascent, they are truly awe-inspiring as an action of a government to correct the wrongful interference of human activity upon the processes of nature."

8


Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy Finalizes Plans For Ryōshi Class Ordinance Ship


The Ryōshi Class as envisioned by Rosa Shipyards, who beat out a bid by Abstergo to build the ordinance ship.

Featuring at least one hundred missiles whilst possessing an array of systems to defend itself from enemy threats the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy is moving forward with the Ryōshi Class. Seen as a compliment to current Rokkenjiman naval doctrine the ordinance ship will be capable of supplementing the firepower of both the submersible and surface fleets of the IRN, with plans for at least one Ryōshi Class vessel to be a component in Carrier Strike Groups and Battleship Battle Groups.

The ships will feature 48 VLS cells in an area which would normally see a 5 inch main gun, providing medium range air defense capabilities. Ryōshi will also have an integrated mast utilizing AESA radar for fire control and detection of its weapons systems, with Abstergo providing the latest generation of ICON systems for the vessel. A further 32 VLS cells are located behind the mast amidship, which are a larger variant which allows the accomodation of larger missiles. As Ryōshi is aimed to serve in a deterrence role against adversarial missile threats it will be fitted with a diverse set of options for ship to surface attack methods, including cruise and ballistic missiles. The Ryōshi is envisioned as a nimble surface compliment to the submersible Sovereign Class submarine.

Fifteen vertical tubes for the deployment of ballistic missiles are also present, with speculation pointing to Abstergo's Damocles II-B being the missile of choice for the Ryōshi. At the stern we see two erect-able launch systems seemingly capable of accommodating Damocles II, although this capability demands servicing options for Ryōshi for supply options to load this version of the Damocles at sea. Ryōshi is expected to displace about 8,000 tons at a length of 492 feet. She will be 20 meters wide with a draft of 9.5 meters.

The IRN has ordered at least 8 of the ships initially.

9
Diplomacy and Events / Re: A War within a war (Borland Spat -Open RP)
« on: March 20, 2024, 10:40:24 PM »
Lucinda had been reluctant, yet once she found her finger on the enter key, there was no going back. Her message, transmitted anonymously and securely, was out there. She wasn't sure she would find the answers she was looking for, yet, she hoped she would find some along the way regardless.

"Beatrice,

A name I've often attached to just one woman, so this is already outside my comfort zone, but please hear my request and speak with me frankly. How did he die and, more importantly, how did he live following our brief time together? Despite the reports I had before me a man in full command of his convictions and faith, not a mindless terrorist as much of Mundus painted him as. I must ask this as his passing stirred something in my soul to awakening, and the feelings I feel overwhelm me to an extent which is incapable of being put to pen and paper, so to say. I used to kill without restraint and now, I can no longer do that, I feel empathy for others and that is quite new to me, so I must know of his life, to see just what he did to me and fix it. I know those in my life love that I'm like this now but I hear alarm bells all around me, so if I can undo whatever he effected in me, no, a part of me says I should embrace this path. I still need to know those details but, from my point and don't broadcast it, Barren was a good man. Rooted firmly in his faith and tradition, and a kind soul to those who had none to offer him, I do admire the man he was. I feel as though a part of him latched itself onto me, help me understand it all please."

"PS:" she added, "Baxter JR is doing well, I can't say he came from your shores but, he's a little devil all the same and I love him for it, I could only hope Baxter Sr would be proud of his indirect progeny."

10


Stanley Fired; Empress Defends Hadley


"Facing down an absolute liar and worthless man, hello 2024 Bingo Card, we have our wild card appearance," the Empress sighed as the RBC spoke with her.

"It's sad to watch a man as his career unravels, looking to throw everyone at his easiest disposal under the bus as he seeks to save his own ego," the Empress shared with the RBC. "He has nothing truthful to share with the Morelanders, indeed, Stanley surrendered himself to Rokkenjiman custody; don't you think if he had anything to absolve himself beyond all certainty he would have resisted until the last moment? He's seeking to save himself, which is why he now sits in a Rokkenjiman correctional facility awaiting the process he sent so many others down. If that isn't poetic, I don't know what is."

"When reviewing Stanley's claims of holding documents, no such documents actually exist," the Empress continued, "we have a man trying to save himself from the consequences of his own actions which have led him to a position he can't escape, so he's sought to destroy the life of his wife in the process. I can't have such a liability as the Attorney for the Crown so, earlier today, I saw to his replacement in the role, for the safety, security and continued functioning of the Imperial Government. Facing down an absolute liar and worthless man, hello 2024 Bingo Card, we have our wild card appearance," the Empress sighed as she turned away for a moment. "And before anyone asks no, the possibility of Lucinda being extradited over these allegations is absolutely, 100% zero; we will not trade a soul that has defended with her very blood Chrysanthemum Throne over speculation and allegations which originate from a liar such as Stanley. I've seen the threads online speculating that outcome, and they're pure fantasy. Lucinda enjoys, and will continue to enjoy, the full protection of the Crown and anyone who wishes to harm her will have to pass through me and I promise you, you will lose in that fool's errand."

When asked if Lucinda had ever visited the Principality the Empress shrugged, "There's no images of her there, no record of her presence that I can access and if she ever was there, I'd imagine it was in an intelligence gathering position against a shared adversary in the Borlanders. Look, I've no concerns of Lucinda's loyalties and where they lay, and it'll take more than the words of a liar to shake that faith, okay? She's proven herself to the cause of Chrysanthemum Throne whereas her accuser has offered only disappointment after disappointment. I know which track record I'd select as winning in this case, and it's Lucinda's, not Lucius'."

11
Vignettes / Re: Rowe's Last Stand
« on: March 19, 2024, 12:20:05 AM »
Location: Admiral Rowe's Office
Time: 1:19 AST

"I'm calling to request evacuation to whatever ship is closest to me at this moment, please see that Rowe responds personally," Lucius said, though the response would prove less to his liking. "The Grand Marshall wishes he could speak to every Rokkenjiman concerned with the welfare of the Empire, however, he is quite busy and cannot attend to all calls, emails or messages personally." And there it was, Lucius thought, the moment he'd outlived his usefulness. He didn't bother responding to the voice on the other end of the line, instead he reported to the closest INIS processing facility he knew of. "I'm surrendering of my own volition. I do have information which might be of interest to your ongoing investigations."

While Stanley was processed Kado made his way to the interrogation room, disconnecting the camera in a manner which Stanley could blatantly see. "So, torture is the response to my surrender?" he asked with a raised eyebrow. "Of course not," Kado said as he kicked the legs underneath Lucius' seat before bringing the butt of a rifle against his neck. "I'm sorry, Counselor, could you repeat that? I'm having trouble hearing you over your gurgles and gasps for air." Holding the rifle in position for a moment more Kado relented, helping Lucius to return to his seat. "I wanted you to feel what she felt and conquered though, if I might add, unlike yourself she found the will to fight off her attackers and damn near bloodied them into a pulp whilst you, well, your performance speaks for itself. I wasn't even aiming to kill you," Kado continued, "so tell me why I shouldn't do the Empress a favour in putting a bullet in your head here and now and calling it all good?"

"I have information," Stanley retorted. "Of course you do, you failed to kill Lucinda so now you're looking to save your ass by whatever means necessary. You'll survive," Kado said as he looked down at a few reports, "but your pride won't; I won't be able to find a prison safe enough for you, not because you're a threat, but because of what the guards might just do to you; your wife's quite popular with them, served with a good many in her intelligence days, I put you in a prison and you're one mere "oopsie" away from no longer breathing. That's not my concern though and no, before you ask, I won't be making any deals on your sorry behalf," Kado continued, "I hope they put you through just one ounce of the pain inflicted against Lucinda and even then, the scales of justice would be uneven. The only thing you can save here today is what historians will write about you so," Kado placed the microphone nearer to Stanley, "sing your song, then accept your punishment, and pray that the Goddesses are more forgiving than I am."

12
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Plot To Destroy Rokkenjiman Democracy
« on: March 17, 2024, 10:55:25 PM »
"There's migraines, stress headaches, hypertension and then, Lucius headaches," she sighed. "He's somehow found a way to be worse than a liar, I guess that takes some sort of special talent," she continued with a shrug before affixing her signature to the paper Emerson produced. After that she stood and offered her hand to Lìosa for a shake before sitting back down. "When Stanley serves prison time it'll have to be in Achkaerin," Asuna said looking to Emerson, "many of the Anauša who were cleared of treachery in the last scenario transitioned to guard duty. It's not a matter of if but when he's killed if he's subjected to Rokkenjiman prisons and," she paused, "I'd rather he lived to ruminate on his actions for many, many, many years. He doesn't get an easy out, even if that might be satisfying for some, can we agree on that?"

She looked out her window in the direction of Pyrena Castle, "She's with friends, and I can fall asleep knowing she's safe so, it's going to be a good night. What are we doing with the speculation out there that an SIS Agent was the one who attempted the hit?" Asuna asked. "My predecessors might have not seen the rot in plain sight but I do and I am tired of having those serving in my name to forward their own pursuits, it sullies the very nature of duty to crown and empire," she paused as she stood and struck her fist against the nearest hard surface. "I want the SIS to know their number has been called, that this is one line crossed in a series of way too many, and if Rowe is anywhere near this...." she paused again, "we get the bastard, I'm sure I can warm Cole up to the idea of a return from his retirement. He can't resist a request from his little Asu after all."

"And there we go," Alex said with a smile as he presented a mug each to Beatrice and Lucinda, "Alex's pick me up after bad times special, known in some circles as a Quinntopian Hot Mess," he continued with a chuckle as Lucinda downed the cocoa with Quinntopian vodka concoction. "This isn't a hot mess," Lucinda said with a monotone sigh, "you spoiled it with the addition of cinnamon, but..." Alex shrugged, "Glad you're holding up alright for what it's worth, you're in safe hands I promise. If there's anything I can get for you, you let me know alright?" It might of been his quick recovery or the tone of his voice but that's when Lucinda cracked a smile and dropped her shell, "I'm sorry, thank you for looking after me. If anyone thought they could kill me so easily I have some beach front property I can sell them in Morivia." "There's my girl, smiles and all," he said as he turned to leave the room.

Once he had left Lucinda crumpled into Beatrice who, for the last few hours, had been cuddling her under a blanket. "Shhh," Beatrice said as Lucinda whimpered, "you're fine, okay? You protected me for so many years, now it's my turn," she continued as she selected a new movie. "I hope you take from this a lesson," Beatrice continued, "that you can still be an absolute bad-ass while showing emotion; it's not a weakness and," she said as she hugged her tighter, "it's nice to see you feel again. I think the last time I saw you feel like this was when those children withheld my cat from me."

"They were assholes, Bea, they're no longer children and neither are we so we can call them what they are," Lucinda retorted with a playful punch. "Indeed," Beatrice chuckled before adding, "You've got Kado's finest picks alongside the Achkaerinese and the walls of Pyrena so please," she paused as she kissed her forehead, "don't let one asshole make you retreat into your shell once again, because I missed the real you. You gave up so much for me and now, Luci, you don't have to, so be the wonderful you that you are. Don't make me miss you even though I see you every day ever again, and know that the days are numbered for whoever ordered a hit on you, your favourite girl is making sure of that."

"Damn you and your way with words in the right moments," Lucinda sighed, "you got it Bea. Really," she said as she framed her face with her palm, "I tried to outrun it all, all the pain, all the faces, but running is never the right choice, you have to choose to reconcile instead. I've done so much for you I can never let you know about, my hands are filthy by this point, but at the end of it all, I'm still the same girl who'll break someone's ass for making you cry, and Asu," she paused, "I don't need a rank or position to look after her, she's family just as you are to me, even Alex with his peculiarities, thank you for being here with me. I have my family, I've done my due, and now other people are in place to pull the trigger on your behalf. I can finally let my guard down and feel, and damn if it's not beautiful, my heart is alive for the first time in nearly a decade and..."

"...and you enjoy it fully, and keep it, a smile fits your face so much better than the static locked lips, you know?" Lucinda pushed back with mock shock, "Are you trying to say I've spent the last years walking around with resting bitch face, Bea?" That prompted more giggles from the two, "No, never!" Beatrice added, "just, it's good to see you smile, okay? Love you," she added to which Lucinda sighed, "and I, you. Oh here's the good part!" she nearly shrieked as she pointed out the Backstreet Boys in This Is The End. "It's as good as you'd hope to expect."

"Ah, that," Kado said as he put his Type 64 away and produced a stun gun, "much less fun, and to think this is my reintroduction to the field is a "catch and carry back to the pound." Still," he said as he set the gun to its highest setting, "this one, in theory, incapacitates instantly. I wonder if he'll feel the jolts rushing through him, to a degree at least."

"Interesting," Kado would add moments later, "in front of my childhood home is where they intersect us," he said as the vehicle slowed. "Are we ready to remove the mask from Seagull?" he continued with a wink as the door opened from the outside and Intelligence Operative Howard Bailey opened the door. Once the affair was behind them Kado nudged his body with his foot. "Seriously, Bailey?! The fool couldn't handle intelligence back in the Soviet days and here he is, running information for our adversaries? I'd have trusted Kyle Barren delivering his victory on foot over this guy," he kicked his stunned body again before kicking it slightly less forcefully again. "What?" he said to Rion who looked unimpressed, "I had to make sure the bastard's really out, and what better way to do that than a kick to the rib cage?"

"Oh my," Eva said as she turned into Emerson's chest, "she has your eyes," she said as she mounted a smile. "You always had something about you that I loved and now," Evanthe said as she expanded her hug to include Sophia, "it all makes sense. "I'll take care of Euphy through this, but you and I," she continued motioning to Sophia, "we've so much to catch up on, yes?" Sophia took it well for her age, "Mum, dad?" she said simply, "I think I need an adjustment to my allowance for the mental trauma I'm enduring now. I think र20k a week should cover it, yes?" to which Eva shook her head, "Oh my girl, there's more to it all than fortune, but we've years before us. Think you could learn to love us as Euphy, who I'm grateful took care of you?" "I'll give you a chance," she paused, "I mean it's not like I'm meeting strangers, you're both known to me so," she hugged them, "guess we're even closer now, yes?"

13


Attorney For The Crown Breaks Silence On Estranged Wife


"The phone calls with Barren, the week she left Rokkenjima without contact, it all makes sense now. She broke bread with the enemy," the Attorney for the Crown turned from the camera to sob. "My wife, was no longer my wife, but a terrorist sympathizer, her double life was but the icing on the cake."

"She spoke, personally, with Kyle Barren on the behest of the Empress," Attorney for the Crown Lucius Stanley shared with the RBC, "and then she took it a step further, traveling to the "Principality" to meet with him, donning a disguise even to fool our own intelligence services and foreign intelligence services, and as we know he was not killed when she was there, what exactly was she doing there?" Lucius asked. "What secrets did she keep from me, from the Crown or, even worse, keeping no secrets from the Crown? We are estranged," he paused to wipe a tear from his cheek, "strangers, at the present, but I have to wonder who replaced my wife? Who assumed her place and was capable of betraying our bonds as an Empire, and truly our bonds to our East Moreland allies as they were at that time?"

"And also let's not delude ourselves," he said as he produced an image of Lucinda, former High Commander and "Amy Lee", singer of Evanescence, "they're both the same picture, to quote the Office here. Isn't it convenient that Evanescence begins releasing music videos and performances once the Rokkenjiman-Achkaerinese deal is done to see the Empress returned home? Were the Achkaerinese privy to the knowledge that Lucinda Hadley had contacts with Kyle Barren prior to their return of her to our shores? I love my wife but," he paused to wipe his tears again, "I am a man of the law, however, and I cannot ignore treason, nor can I ignore the comforting of terrorists which my wife has found herself in the business of doing. I could provide documents, if the Morelanders desire them, and while my allegiance as a husband previously held my hand, as I'm sure any could understand, even King David himself, I'm tired of burying sins, it is such an intensive labour. I can even show him how the rot extended to Chrysanthemum Throne at the time, should he desire all the details. I'm tired of lying for a woman who doesn't love me, and an Empress-Emerita who is herself equally compromised in consorting with terrorists despite her public remarks. I'll bring the entire house of cards down on them and aid in seeing justice is realized for Barren sympathizers in Pyrenna Castle and the Imperial Palace; just say the word and we're cooking with fire."

The Imperial Palace lambasted the Attorney for the Crown, threatening his very replacement. "The Attorney for the Crown is clearly talented in weaving false narratives in the face of his failing marriage. Chrysanthemum Throne is above reproach in the matters he speaks of and will see that his lies are adequately dispelled, both legally and in the public forum. The Empress is gravely disappointed in his conduct and is already exploring avenues for his replacement."

14
Vignettes / Re: Rowe's Last Stand
« on: March 16, 2024, 10:28:12 PM »
Location: Admiral Rowe's Office
Time: 7:04 AST

"Well, it seems as if she's lost none of her touch from her Anauša days, he was one of SIS's finest," Rowe said as he briefed Stanley and the two reviewed the footage from the body cam of the agent, the mists of blood which filled the screen at time nearly caused Stanley to deposit his breakfast upon Rowe's desk. "Bloody goddesses man," Stanley said as he stood and shook his head, "the only thing you've accomplished is making my head hang even lower when I pass her in the Residential Wing, and now she'll undoubtedly be on an even higher state of alert than she was before. By every measure, your involvement has been a failure." Rowe shrugged, "you were the one who green-lit me trying to take out one of Beatrice's most potent weapons, the harm which befell that agent is on your hands, Lucius. I merely facilitated an avenue to the desires you relayed to me, after all."

"And, she certainly doesn't waste time," Rowe continued as he handed Lucius his tablet with a video playing from it. "She's practically taunting you here, less than twelve hours later and she's performing in Ashinxao?" "I've changed my mind," Rowe would say in response, "it can't be done your way, she's on one shoulder Beatrice's protecting graces and on the other, the graces of the fox, if you want to destroy her it has to be by a third means," Lucius left that last point hanging. "Do go on," Rowe would eventually add, to which Lucius smirked, "her talks with Kyle Barren, of course. If that should leak, that the personal assassin of the Empress of Rokkenjima met personally with Kyle and didn't kill him...."

"You devious bastard," Rowe smiled, "now you get it, finally. When you can't assassinate a body, you assassinate the person attached to it. I'll see what strings I have left at the RBC to pull, even better if I can connect her stage persona to her other profession. If this works," he was interuppted by Lucius, "it will work, the Ironsides cannot abide anyone who sheds an ounce of kindness to that lot." "Very well," Rowe said, "give it a few hours and we'll see what happens after the leak."

15
Vignettes / Re: Rowe's Last Stand
« on: March 15, 2024, 11:21:56 PM »
Location: Pyrettania Central Cemetery
Time: 9:22 AST

After a rather splendid weekend spent with Asuna Lucinda had attained the required permissions to visit a cemetery where a soul special to her was buried. As they approached the site of her grave Lucinda asked them to remain a distance behind, "Please," she said, "this is something I must do alone. I have already missed a few years due to circumstances we both understand, I'm already trespassing in a way, don't bring another trespass on her memory, please?" she said to the Achkaerinese operative who, after a moment, finally relented to her request. "Thank you," she said as she hung her head, "I have someone to apologize to for stealing the life ahead of them. I promise I'll return, I'm not one to run and you know that much already."

While many moments passed in silence Lucinda finally spoke,  "You'd be 23 now, perhaps a university graduate, still with your future ahead of you," she said as she laid one flower down. "I don't know if you'd have found love by this point, but I'd like to imagine you'd have someone supportive at your side and, if they were nothing less than supportive, I'd sort them out for you, I promise," she continued, laying another flower down. "You'd still have your entire future ahead if I hadn't been there that day," she paused as a tear gave way to gravity and hit the ground beneath her, "all of that, probably more, you'd have seen. Nine years have passed," she continued as she rested her head against her tombstone, "it doesn't become easier though, if it weren't for me you'd have been so much by now and yet," she sighed, "you're just, not. Your life ended and you've your assassin crying over your grave, all over some poor intelligence, it isn't fair and it isn't right and I am so very, very sorry. You deserved so much better, and so much more than me, damn it all, I'm sorry..."

When she heard a twig break behind her Lucinda's instincts took over and she rose to her feet, turning in the direction of the noise yet seconds later she found herself pinned to the ground. "You insufferable bastard, not even a respect for the dead?" she spoke defiantly through the weight of the stock of their gun forced upon her throat, forcing him off with a burst of adrenaline from her legs before finding herself atop her would-be assailant. "You bastard, you disrespectful bastard," she continued as she let loose with punches from her left and right hands, rendering his face into a bloody pudding before anyone could run to intervene. "Am I not even aloud to mourn? What more do you wish to take from me, that you attempt to kill me here?" her voice raised to a shriek before Hazel could finally tear her apart from him and respond to, and when she ascertained the scene before her found Lucinda punching what had now become a mound of flesh upon the ground beneath her.

"By the Goddessess I am tired, so tired, of this," she said as her hands stopped. "Is the only thing I am proficient at is ending life...is this what I was born for because," she said as she punched the face beneath her three or four more times, "I am so Goddesses-damned sick of it, I am tired of ending lives, because..." "He's still alive, just stop," the voice came, which saw Lucinda stand up and back off. "I should've had you come with me," she paused before breaking down into tears and falling to her knees, "I can't even mourn the dead without someone wishing to hurt me, damn it, damn it all," she said as she descended again, her fist rose which was swiftly caught by Hazel who gave her a stern look. "Get back to the car, you don't want to finish this, not this way at least, you understand?" Lucinda paused, for the first time struck by the scene before her, "I leave it in your hands, then. I'm sorry you have to clean up my mess..."

16
Diplomacy and Events / Re: An Inquiry To King Aldwin VI of Weißenwald
« on: March 15, 2024, 10:25:30 PM »
While Akasha was aware of some back home laughing at the thought of her spending time in a snowy and cold environment the joke would be on them as she rather enjoyed escapes such as this from the heat of Khemnen. Given the premise of the proposal she had laid out, the concerns which existed and the differences which existed, there would certainly be much to discuss over the course of the meeting and she looked forward to that. She had certainly had her share of experience in being an agitator upon the international stage thus it was a nice change of pace in these more recent times to be engaging with a group of nations not in exchanging swipes, but in forwarding a path of understanding and seeing where opportunities for friendship and cooperation may exist.


The Royal Yacht Hatshepsut

It was certainly a good opportunity to test how the Hatshepsut handled a variety of environments, indeed, this would be the southern most that she had sailed. From there, she would disembark the Royal Yacht and arrive at King Lothar VIII Research Station via helicopter, and whilst not the most elegant of settings she'd visited she was nonetheless in a state of awe all the same. Building in a desert and building in an environment such as this were differing skill sets, after all. Anxious and uncertain if she was the first to arrive, alongside the Vizier, she took in the environment and pointed out sights to Apherumes which captured her attention in the mean time. Despite her titles and history she was somewhat more meek and reserved, resorting to formal protocols as to not allow any to know of her mixture of anxiety and anticipation.

17
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Plot To Destroy Rokkenjiman Democracy
« on: March 14, 2024, 08:22:25 PM »
"The suburbs of Exuperia, plenty of locations along the road which will ensure that stray bullets don't find their way into unsuspecting bystanders. We'll actually be near my childhood home which, if my planning holds up, will be the precise point we meet Seagull. This is assuming they approach us from the hole I have suspected them of operating out of, but," he shrugged, "I could be wrong and we'll instead meet near the town's lake. Either way, I can't wait to see who's face I can finally pin this name to."

Lucinda drew the blanket over Asuna's shoulders, planting a kiss on her forehead before entering her former "in-house" office where she drew the bed from the sofa bed. They'd spent the night talking and laughing together, and even after all that Asuna had found another vector that softened her heart. As the eyes of the Empress fell under the weight of sleep, slumped against Lucinda who took another bite of pop corn as the face behind Ghostface's mask was revealed in Scream 4[/], "never worry about that," she murmured gently, promoting a gentle "hmm?" from Lucinda. "I got me my own super hero," she continued as she tiredly hugged Luicinda before giving into sleep fully. "Oh, you," Lucinda said with joyful tears in her eyes, and as she drew the covers above herself the moment pulled at her once more before rising from bed, opening the door to ensure she was still safe.

"If you only knew what I've done, the many sins I carry for you and your mother," she whispered as she closed the door behind her and returned to the sofa bed. "I'll always choose to be a demon to your enemies if it means I can always be the angel in your dreams," she smiled as she pulled her own covers over herself. "Also, suck on that Freya," she grinned even more broadly, "I'm a super hero, now, adorned by Asuna herself."

18
War and Conflict / Re: Eavesdropping
« on: March 14, 2024, 07:51:55 PM »
Sophia smiled, she'd already gotten one of the items on her wish list. "I'll be transferring command of the group to the Edward Truden, do see that a discreet transport is arranged for me. I do believe that they're due for some manner of resupply, thus I'll make my way over then." Hours later the Vice Admiral was aboard Edward Truden; if the Achkaerinese were going to be making a visit it presented an opportunity to speak face-to-face on some concerns that would best be discussed in such a setting. Naturally an apology was to be owed, however, the circumstances at hand required a bit of ruffling to draw attention away from the primary reason she was not presently back home.

Once she had been informed that the mission of Hunting Girl had been completed she relayed the necessary orders to effect their withdrawal from the region. Despite calls for violence against Rokkenjimans by Ramose, the time spent in Clysperis by the Rokkenjimans was rather uneventful, aside from one misguided youth throwing rocks at a Rokkenjiman sailor. Once he was subdued into Clysperi custody the appetite of the crowd for further acts of violence seemed to diminish greatly, granting Forrester the chance to take pictures of the Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, and she enjoyed sampling the dishes Akasha had to offer for her guests. It wouldn't be a visit to change the entire course of their relations, but that they'd been so well received spoke toward the path of normalization which the Pharaoh had pledged her Kingdom toward.

"Let's make sure our intentions are clear," Sophia said as they reached the understood point for this "stop and search". "We'll follow the protocol we've seen in the Illumic," she continued, ordering Edward Truden's guns aimed so that they'd be wholly targeted away from any approaching Achkaerinese vessels or territory, "be prepared to strike the colours as well," she said, knowing there were a couple newer faces on the bridge. "But...why?" one would ask, which prompted Sophia to give her best Picard impression its time in the spotlight, "In case we decide to surrender to them, Number One," which prompted chuckles amongst those more well versed in Sophia's brand of humour. "In all seriousness we've inconvenienced them quite a bit," she continued, "best to let them know just why it was necessary. Have some fresh tea ready, will you?"

In some way the concerns of INIS were secondary to her; prior to Kado guiding her to opening her eyes she never would have doubted Rowe's sense of duty to the First Empire as it appeared most unshakeable. Now that she had found herself in the unenviable position of being his greatest adversary in the Imperial Rokkenjiman Armed Forces, she had to relay her concerns, perhaps find some reassuring that she wasn't witnessing something that wasn't truly there, and that friends abroad would know how to differentiate renegades from those whose loyalty remained steadfast with the Empress and Empire if the worst should transpire at some point in the future. Intelligence gathering was one part of the mission and, with that seemingly accomplished, she could focus fully upon her personal part in this, indeed, the very reason she offered no resistance to the plan in the first place.

19
Vignettes / Rowe's Last Stand
« on: March 13, 2024, 09:19:02 PM »
Location: Admiral Rowe's Office
Time: 10:24 AST

"Here you are, in my office whilst she," he pointed to a screen, "is out there living her best life, the adoring heart of millions. You'd of been better off if you'd let me kill her as I originally proposed because," Rowe sighed, "your harlot will only cause us trouble moving forward. Look," he placed his hand on Stanley's shoulder, "my first wife heard details she would of been better off not knowing, I had her smothered in her sleep and I haven't lost a wink over it. Yet here we have," he said as he pulled up a video of Rowe's wife "out there singing songs about you and your failed marriage. Are you that afraid of her that your manhood died somewhere along the way?" Rowe asked as he folded his hands underneath his chin.

"Good gods man, I don't want her death," Stanley said in repulsion, to which Rowe sighed, "This bitch," he said as the video played, "will be your undoing, she might not have her intelligence apparatus anymore, she might lack the sanction of the Imperial Government, but she'll undo you. Give me the word and I'll see her voice never sings again, she'll be but a page in your history, and your humiliation will end. Do you agree to let me help you?" Rowe said as he extended his hand to which Stanley extended his. "Then I can assure you, her performance at the Association Fest will be her last, and there will be no blood on your hands as a result. We're eliminating a common enemy," he paused as he laid his hand on Stanley's shoulder, "she ceased to be your wife long before this point. "And when we take out this common enemy, I trust you'll play your part?" Rowe continued.

"I'll be a sad husband, I'll cry, and I'll play my role in the affair," Stanlley would reply. "Good boy," Rowe said as he again placed his hand on Stanley's shoulder, "you learn quickly. We'll silence this bitch once and for all, I promise you. You're on the right side, you know?"

20
War and Conflict / Eavesdropping
« on: March 13, 2024, 08:30:43 PM »

IRN Excalibur, somewhere in the Great Northern Sea.

"The flowers are in bloom on the trees your father planted so many years ago and the birds, how they sit upon the branches and sing their songs proudly, I've included an attachment of that with this message. I hope you face fair seas and following winds, I'll see you when you get home, love." Sophia touched the screen before her as a bush warbler sang out from the speakers. She didn't have time to pen a response in the moment, however, as some manner of communication would be required with the Achkaerinese given her presence in their back yard. As an added benefit, however, she would be capable of speaking with friendly forces far outside the earshot of Rowe. Knowing that most means of communication would be monitored back home she sat down at the backup communications station, placed her finger upon the telegraph key, and began to tap out a message at 25% of the power of the radio equipment. This would ensure the message was within range of the Achkaerinese, but not within any Rokkenjiman stations which would otherwise be listening in.

Code: [Select]
...- .. -.-. . / .- -.. -- .. .-. .- .-.. / ... --- .--. .... .. .- / ..-. --- .-. .-. . ... - . .-. / - --- / .- -.-. .... -.- .- . .-. .. -. . ... . .-.-.- / .--. .-.. . .- ... . / -.. .. ... .--. .- - -.-. .... / .- -. / --- ..-. ..-. .. -.-. . .-. / - --- / -- -.-- / ...- . ... ... . .-.. / .- - / -.-- --- ..- .-. / . .- .-. .-.. .. . ... - / -.-. --- -. ...- . -. .. . -. -.-. . .-.-.- / .-- . / -. . . -.. / - --- / - .- .-.. -.- .-.-.-

Translation: Vice Admiral Sophia Forrester to Achkaerinese. Please dispatch an officer to my vessel at your earliest convenience. We need to talk.

Meanwhile, IRN Edward Truden, an Obeisance Class battleship and IRN Hinagiku, a Kashiwa Class destroyer, proceeded to their berths in Setri, whilst IRN Hunting Girl took position beneath the waves of the Gulf of Safraen, maintaining her position above an underseas cable due to her stabilizers which enabled her to maintain such a position against the forces of underseas currents. Siphoning the data of a foreign nation was always be a risky proposition, however, the silence of Hunting Girl aligned with her suite of weapons and defenses offered a capability most nations could not afford. Indeed, the presence of three decoy submarines, should their victims be looking for anything underneath the waves that is, would give Hunting Girl the breathing room she needs to complete her mission. Still, even with that, the presence of the Excalibur Strike Group in the midst of the Unitary State and Achkaerin, combined with the port of call in Clysperis, Sophia was confident she had given Hunting Girl the cover she needed to complete the mission.

21

The capitulation of Khemnen Palace, once an unthinkable event, is something which is now within the foreseeable future as Beketaten hosts the Imperial Rokkenjiman Navy in her pet project of Setri. While this event is something which should be of concern to every Clysperi citizen she has also dispatched aid to the puppet regime established in Kalasin, quickly back-tracking from standing up to the very forces she pretended to stand against for years. She would see the people of our continent subject to continued military occupation and foreign-backed leadership so she may collect crumbs from nations such as the Achkaerinese and the Rokkenjimans. To my rightful subjects, these are sad days for the Kingdom and something which I am certain in every fiber of my being that the gods are looking down with great disgust.

I tell you now, if you see these Rokkenjimans on our streets, greet them with stones, molotovs or other implements. Beketaten wishes to send them home with "some knowledge" whereas I say we should send them home with marks they can never forget even if they wish to. I have spoken of my desire for the Kingdom to exist in a more friendly position with the world around us, yet not at the cost of our identity as a nation; not as a vassal of the Achkaerinese and certainly not as a vassal of the Rokkenjimans. If we must bloody a few noses or, indeed, break them to ensure the message is received by those in foreign capitals then so be it; we didn't ask for them here, we don't want them here, and we will most assuredly see that they find their way home broken, beaten and scarred.

To the Allied Provisional Authority I tell you now, despite Beketaten sending your nascent vassals in Kalasin aid and backtracking from her opposition, Clysperis is not your friend and it never will be. Not until the last Ardian and Achkaerinese swine is removed from Kalasin should we consider aid, aid which will only benefit certain parties in Kalasin I'm sure as it will be misappropriated for the elite, or any manner of recognition.

To my people please, stand vigilant, stand by, and stand ready. Soon, we embark upon the righteous battle for the soul of Clysperis and, by the gods, we will be victorious, for we must be victorious. We can no longer allow the Great Pretender, Beketaten, to soil her titles and our very soil with these offenses against the gods.

Ramose Sehet-ib-Re, Sovereign of Sovereigns, Chosen of Ra, Lord of the Three Lands.

22


Pharaoh Allows IRN Port Of Call To Setri


An Imperial Rokkenjiman Battleship will be in Setri over the coming days in a port of call.

As the Kingdom of Clysperis and the First Empire of Rokkenjima continue the path to normalized relations Pharaoh Akasha Di-‘nh-mi-Re has accepted a port of call from two Rokkenjiman warships. IRN Edward Truden, an Obeisance Class battleship, will be joined by the Kashiwa Class destroyer Hinagiku in the City of Setri for the next two to four days. "It is my pleasure to extend the hospitality of the Kingdom of Clysperis to the sailors aboard these vessels, as well as an opportunity for them to better understand Clysperi culture and that, at the end of the day, we both are ancient civilizations who do not have cause for quarrel between our peoples. It is my hope that these Rokkenjimans will see the Great Pyramids of Nafu, for which I've arranged transportation should they request it, as well as arranging for a full traditional Clysperi dinner for all prepared by my personal chef for their enjoyment. I'll also be on hand in Setri for those who wish for some brief talks during their time in Clysperis."

The Pharaoh shared her interest in Edward Truden, stating "if we had a ship such as that, the Soviets would have never subdued the sovereign spirit of Clysperis as they managed to do so. I am happy that the IRN has granted my request for a short tour of the battle ship, and I look forward to meeting the sailors who serve aboard her. I also hope that this marks an initial step between Clysperis and Rokkenjima, that we may restore full diplomatic relations and see for our Peoples a path forward lined in trust and friendship. We do not have to be foes, and as I welcome your sailors into my harbours, I promise to protect them as fiercely as I would those of my own. May they enjoy themselves and take some knowledge home at the same time."

23
Vignettes / Re: "We Stand On Guard For Thee"
« on: March 12, 2024, 08:52:21 PM »
Location: Kōshioka Naval Base, Fukadomari
Time: 9:45 AST

"This whole Abstergo affair reeks," Sophia said to those in the room. It proved to be the usual cast as of late, Kado on behalf of the INIS and <0 on behalf of, well, herself in most instances. It was certainly the opinion in Kōshioka, and shared with the INIS, that there might be more than meets the eye with the events. "As such, after discussions with Kado prior to your arrival," she said as she looked to <0's screen from that of her own, "we've arranged a mission for one of our most capable intelligence gathering tools to spend some time in the Great Northern Sea," as she said the words Kado's smile became more evident.

"We're sending Hunting Girl to do what she does best and, most importantly, give you plenty of data to play with so you can do what you do best. Won't that be fun?" Kado said as he 'booped' the monitor as one would boop a nose, prompting <0 to sigh. "You can't even see where my nose would be on the screen, ugh, but I like where this is going. If we can tap into some underseas cables and use the ROVs, I imagine you'll bring me something home to work with." As Sophia began to ask how Kado shushed her, "our girl here knows quite a bit about all of us, she's got her fingers in just about every digital system in the First Empire and likely has windows into foreign nations though, if she does, she hasn't told me. As Lucinda told me she's an "asset of the Crown with broad purview" so her clearances might just rival yours or mine." Sophia nodded and returned to her seat, "very well, let us continue."

"Hunting Girl will enter the Great Northern Sea along with IRN Edward Truden, an Obeisance Class battleship and IRN Hinagiku, a Kashiwa Class destroyer, each of which will be conducting a port of call in Setri, Clysperis as Rokkenjima and Clysperis continue to normalize relations. Mind you it would not be my first choice to send Rokkenjima's largest battleship for such an occasion, however, the Pharaoh noted her interest in seeing such a vessel and felt it would bring in more tourists to Setri, so the request was allowed. I also believe this will draw the attention of the Unitary State whilst Hunting Girl conducts her mission inconspicuously beneath the waves. That much firepower sitting directly across from you in the Gulf of Safraen, not to mention the presence of the Excalibur Strike Group is nothing you'd ignore, even if the situation at present had no potential to escalate to military conflict."

"Essentially, party up top and all business down below," Kado said with a grin. "Kado, the saying is 'business in the front, party in the ba...' you know what, the quirks aren't what's important right now. What is important is that we see what information we can gather, which is why we're also sourcing aOS and nexus devices used by Rokkenjiman citizens returning from the Unitary State for inspection. Essentially Abstergo has agreed to provide new models in return for the sacrifice of their current devices. Those devices will then be forwarded to <0 for analysis," Sophia continued, which prompted a chuckle from <0.

"Explain?" Sophia asked. "I know what Abstergo's been up to with their SIMP, they've done much more than data anonymization and quite franky I'm surprised the bastards streamlined Helmine to operate on a single processor. To offer a crash course," <0 said as a series of images filled the displays before Sophia and Kado, "in ICON Helmine oversees the central ICON cluster; she knows what each local client of Renix RSP should look like, and what the apps that are ran on them should look like down to the bit. If she sniffs something running unauthorized or otherwise modified code, even on the system level, she isolates them and disconnects them from the rest of ICON before purging the local hard drive in question. I know the Vice Admiral is privy to this bu..." "I'm aware of Helmine, thank you," Kado said while raising his hand, "what has Abstergo done with their SIMP though?" he continued.

"Well, just as the central cluster queries and checks those local clients, SIMP's Helmine queries and checks the status of aOS, any apps installed, and checks them against what is offered in the aOS Store and the official versions of aOS released from Abstergo. If there's something amiss Helmine issues a prompt to the user before rendering the device inert, and yes Abstergo ships them a new device. They're ambitious if attacking the hardest nut in the technological space is their goal but, I'm merely speculating here. I'll need the data to work with to find any ultimate conclusions here."

"And data you shall have," Kado said with a smile. "When do we expect our vessels to arrive?" he continued. "We're scheduled to arrive in about 23 hours, I'll be on hand aboard the Excalibur, and while our entire carrier strike group will not be partaking in the port of call the remainder of our group will be about halfway between Abydos and Achkaerin." "Speaking of Achkaerin," Kado paused, "clue them in on this. Something of this nature seems like something they'd be interested in knowing the results of," to which Sophia nodded. "Let's hope someone's listening in on GRAFT, I don't want to trust this to general comms."

"Then we're adjourned for now," Kado said as he stood to leave. "And here we are, the boys at it once again," <0 said which prompted a confused look from Kado. "I've been into Amazon properties lately, and the fourth season is going to blow your mind but," an image filled her screen.



"Cheeky bitch," Kado sighed as he exited. "Love you too, intelligence daddy," <0 said before ending the call, which left Sophia wondering what had happened in the conclusion of their meeting.

24


Evanesence Returns With First Video In Years

Largely popular in the early 2000s, Evanescense has returned to prominence in the Rokkenjiman charts.

From a move out of left field a voice from years ago has knocked the "trifecta" from the Top 10 of the Rokkenjiman charts dropping a new music video which none saw coming. With the release of the video interest in Evanescence has been rekindled across the First Empire, with not only the latest offerings from Evanesence charting but also songs such as 2003's Bring Me To Life and 2006s Sweet Sacrifice finding their way to the top of the charts, in some cases, for the first time in nearly 20 years. While members of the band were unavailable for comment at time of press Red Moon Music representatives stated simply, "It's an iconic sound, and iconic sounds transcend boundaries such as time. So it comes as little surprise to us that on the release of this video that interest in the impressive back catalogue of Evanescence has shown results in the charts."

The RBC has received unofficial footage from a performance at Pyrena Castle which the Empress enjoyed in the previous days, however Pyrena Castle has declined comments on the performance happening. The RBC will bring you the latest as these stories progress.

25
Press Offices / Re: Imperial Rokkenjiman Office of the Press
« on: March 12, 2024, 12:02:43 AM »
Pyrena Castle
Imperial Household Ministry

For Immediate Release
March 11, 2024

As required by newly implemented Financial Reporting Standards by the Imperial Diet the Imperial Household Ministry is hereby presenting its 2024 report on the assets held by the Imperial Family. At the start of the present year the Imperial Family holds net assets worth र648.6bn ($1.2tn). These assets are a combination of equities, the market capitalization of Abstergo Industries, real estate, precious metals, art, yachts, luxury vehicles, rare earth minerals revenue, commercial properties, agricultural land, foreshore and bonds. This portfolio, and any profits derived from it, are managed by the Imperial Household Ministry via the Imperial Sovereign Fund (ISF) which utilizes a portion of the profits to enact meaningful positives in the lives of the Rokkenjiman People, at the direction of the Empress.

These figures do not take into account assets owned by the Empress Emeritus and Emperor Emeritus, which are considered separately for the purposes of our reporting and are not required by the Financial Reporting Standards the Imperial Diet passed.

26


Empress Acquires "Land Yacht"


The र1.62m ($3m) "Land Yacht" is set to become a part of the Empress' motorcade.

While the Empress will have to wait to employ the Land Yacht in an official capacity, due to pending modifications by the Defense Solutions Division of Abstergo Industries, the Imperial Palace accepted delivery of the vehicle earlier this week. "While the details of the modifications themselves will naturally not be something we may disclose to the public naturally things like the windows, armour, an upgrade to the stock power plant to increase its top speed, are things that anyone would be capable of assuming. As we've had an extensive hand in developing security and defense platforms for the Imperial Yacht Fleet, it will be our pleasure to ensure the Empress enjoys that level of protection on land as well," a spokesperson for the DSD shared with the RBC.


Kitchen and dining facilities, the later of which the Empress may utilize for meetings with staff.

Featuring 732 square feet of living space the Empress will be capable of having accommodations at hand anywhere she may travel at the standards of Rokkenjiman security, whether it be by land, sea or air. The full cost of the Land Yacht was covered by the Empress herself at no cost to Rokkenjiman taxpayers. "It was important to me that if we took on another vehicle in the Imperial Fleet, it should be done so not at the cost of the Rokkenjiman People. I am naturally looking forward to putting this new, and useful, tool to use once necessary modifications are made."


The Sky Lounge will allow the Empress to entertain guests or enjoy the views around her.

Olympic To Set Sail Next Month


Olympic undergoing sea trials prior to her anticipated voyage to Arendelle, Dartfordia.

IMS Olympic is completing sea trials with "flying colours" according to Blue Star Lines who have put the 114 year old liner through the paces before her voyage to Arendelle, Dartfordia next month. While she has been restored to a period accurate state a number of behind-the-scenes changes have been implemented to ensure the safe operations of the vessel, including the discreet addition of a fire suppression system, wastewater treatment facilities as well as upgraded wiring and navigational equipment, the later of which occupies space in the upper portion of the fourth tunnel. The Empress will be taking part in the voyage, with spots open for guests from across Mundus to take part in the historic voyage to Arendelle. The RBC will bring you more as we approach the Olympic's first voyage in decades.

27
Press Offices / Re: Imperial Rokkenjiman Office of the Press
« on: March 11, 2024, 12:55:27 AM »
Pyrena Castle
Chrysanthemum Throne

For Immediate Release
March 10, 2024

With the exit of Abstergo Industries from Mktvartvelo as announced earlier today the First Empire will continue to maintain obstacles imposed upon previously listed Mktvartvelo firms from ever hoping to engage with the Rokkenjiman economy. The actions we've seen toward a foreign company must not be allowed to be normalized and I call upon the friends, partners and allies of Rokkenjima to ensure that does not happen. If we allow this situation to stand the very basis of the international economy hangs in the balance and I, for one, will not sit comfortably and let that happen. Rokkenjiman sanctions will stand as they are as it is the position of the Imperial Government that Abstergo was forced out of the market in Mktvartvelo. Naturally the door shall be open for the Unitary State to prove otherwise however, until the date and time they choose to do so, Rokkenjima will stand steadfast in the actions of the Crown. While we'll never close the door entirely to anyone, we'll demand an action of trust in the future to sooth the wounds of trust lost previously.

That is all.

28
Diplomacy and Events / Re: The Plot To Destroy Rokkenjiman Democracy
« on: March 11, 2024, 12:39:28 AM »
"Oh please, don't let pretenses fool you," Kado said as he pulled his Howa Type 64 from underneath his desk. "You'll find, on further inspection, that it's taken care for meticulously, and I'd challenge you to find one single fault in its condition," he said with a smile. "I recognize that the Type '89 has succeeded it but," he paused, displaying it with a measure of pride, "if it's not broken, I feel you have little need to fix it. My records at the Imperial Training Grounds, as well as my battle records, are, to some extent at least," he sighed, "public record, but once I have a target in my sights," he chuckled, "they're no longer a threat. Do hold my hand though and let me try something new," he said as he set the Type 64 in a corner, "just don't tell her about it, jealous type after all" he said walking away from the rifle with a chuckle.

Another request for Rowe to meet with her personally, another request denied. "Ugh he's worse than the fanboys I had back in Tytor like," she paused as she made a puking motion, "no thank you, dude." Lucinda chuckled, "Their type wants to be right next to the Empress, you're wise to keep them at arm's length, don't ever doubt yourself no matter what is before you. I learned long ago your gut instinct, is usually the one you should trust," she continued as she sighed, it'd been a while since her and Asuna had palled around in the Residential Wing of Pyrena. "I hope you're not jealous," Asuna said as she motioned Lucinda to look at her MP3 player, "...all of the albums, even the ones you had to download illegally....I'm not mad at that," Lucinda said as she held back a tear. "I have to say," Asuna said with a smile, "I like your emotional side, you've opened up so much in recent times and I have to ask why?" Lucinda stammered, "well I los...well I ha...I adopted an animal and while I love plants, the little guy snagged his way into my heart," she continued as she presented Baxter JR. "Don't smother him as your mother did," she sighed, "they have feelings too and too much of a good thing is bad."

Asuna bent down and presented a banana, "what's this, buddy?" she continued, handing it to him. "All yours, my man," she said to which Lucinda rolled her eyes. "Spoiling him, I see. You've your mother's heart," she sighed, to which Asuna hugged her. "Why are you...what is this?" Lucinda asked. "Luci, you sighed, you, Luci, sighed. You never let your disappointment show before so," Asuna paused and looked away, "I'm happy for you, okay?" to which Lucinda giggled, "it is new, isn't it? I feel, comfortable, with some people like this and while that is new, I do like it. Don't tell anyone though," she said holding a finger to her mouth to which Asuna nodded, "our little secret, whatever keeps you on this path. You don't know how it warms my heart it to see you like this, I'm here for it and I love it," she said with a tighter hug.

"As long as you let me breathe it'll stick around," Lucinda said as she gripped Asuna tighter, "this side'll stick around, I promise."

29
Press Offices / Re: Abstergo Public Relations Office
« on: March 10, 2024, 11:53:46 PM »

The Office Of CEO Relkin

For Immediate Release
March 10, 2024

Withdrawal From Mktvartvelo

Abstergo Industries has long held itself to a high standard in its relationship with our consumers across Mundus, and while that's a stance which has certainly cost us what is, for some, lucrative options in dealing in data we determined that we should, and must, buck that trend. I've always held the belief that if a product, service or other offering you are using is free the item in question is not the product, you are. Even in cases where transmitting data for processing on Abstergo systems would be the easy path to take we believed that control of data should belong with the individual; it's why every Abstergo product ships with the Secured Integrated Memory Processor (SIMP) which ensures that delicate information is processed on the device or, if information must be sent back to Abstergo, that it is anonymized in such a way that we are incapable of tying that set of data to any particular account. With the most recent actions in Mktvartvelo announced yesterday Abstergo Industries has consulted legal counsel which is experienced in international law and has elected to remove itself from the Mktvartvelo market entirely. As the Unitary State has an undue prejudice against Abstergo Industries and refuses to take any actions to rectify the allegations of jingoism and protectionism, Abstergo is not interested in continued fights before courts that are already aligned against us.

As Mktvartvelo was never a part of our financial programs in their initial days, and services have never been extended to the Mktvartvelo market, the provisions enacted against Abstergo Industries are, for the most part, toothless. Those who will ultimately suffer are the consumers who will be limited to only those options as approved by their political leadership. This creates, in Mktvartvelo, a market which is neither fair nor free and one I feel should be an issue which my colleagues abroad should consider in their interactions with the economy of Mktvartvelo. As we've seen with Abstergo one day you're in the clear, the next a law which the full understanding of which hasn't been shared with you forces you out of an entire market. While much of the world has moved beyond such archaic, protectionist and jingoistic actions, it's apparent to me that Mktvartvelo is stuck in an age which has passed in much of the broader world. That is, truly, unfortunate.

That's all I have to say on the matter at this time. I've taken the liberty of emailing links to VPNs and other resources for our customers within the Mktvartvelo market who still value choice, as well as "unofficial" workarounds to the patches Abstergo is unfortunately forced to push to your devices that you can implement at your earliest leisure, which will allow you to continue using your devices as they presently operate into the foreseeable future. It has been a pleasure to serve you.

30


Empress Addresses Abstergo Situation


The Empress weighed in after she was asked of the situation brewing between Abstergo Industries and Mktvartvelo.

With the imposing of Rokkenjiman sanctions upon six firms based in Mktvartvelo the Empress has responded, stating the "situation is unfortunate, but necessary. Abstergo's data processing and storage retention policies have routinely went beyond that which is required by Rokkenjiman law and regulations, so it was quite a surprise to see their policies being drawn into question by those in Mktvartvelo," the Empress said as she sat down with the RBC, holding up her aOS device. "Many companies send a lot of data when they "phone home", so to say, including our voices and other bio-metric data, yet with Abstergo products they've taken the extra step to include a special processor, the SIMP unit, which handles those demands on-device; this means that much of the data other companies would be harvesting Abstergo is either declining to receive at all or, if any data is received, it is in an anonymized manner which cannot tie one single individual to the data by even the most knowledge of Abstergo's engineers. All those silly questions to Lexa I've asked? Abstergo has no way of tying them to me, and they've never received a recording of my voice. We've tested this, with assets in the INIS sniffing every packet of data from my phone to Abstergo's servers, and the privacy policy is followed just as it is stated."

"We experienced the corporatist government of the Federal Republic," the Empress continued, "one which often elected to view corporations as their constituents over the very people of Rokkenjima, so there's a whole hangover involved there that the Imperial Government must keep the worst impulses of capitalism subdued while allowing for innovation to proceed. That drive saw the development of the SIMP chip, which is included in every Abstergo computer and smart phone, a secure enclave that not even Abstergo can access without the consent of the owner of whatever product in question is before them. In addition, Abstergo has seen that the Rokkenjiman standard of opting-in through Informed Consent Prompts has been maintained in foreign markets. This means that, for a consumer in any market to have their data shared with Abstergo they've at least two, concise, prompts to which they must agree to prior to the already limited set of data Abstergo collects to be collected. If I set my VPN to, let's say a location in Mktvartvelo," she continued and then navigated to an Abstergo services website a first prompt appeared on her screen: "Do you agree to share the following information with Abstergo Industries?" with a detailed list of the data requested, with both "yes" and "no" options displayed with equal prominence. When the Empress selected "yes" a second prompt appeared on her screen. "Your consent may be withdrawn at any time of your choosing. The ways in which the data you share may be found at this link and your right to withdraw consent may be found at this link. We encourage you to save both links to ensure your relationship with Abstergo remains fully within your control."

"So, as you have seen yourself, they're rather up front in adhering to Rokkenjiman law, even beyond our borders which is a net win for consumers in any market. The purposes for which data is requested, as well as how it is processed and with whom it is shared, is also limited by Rokkenjiman consumer protection law, and the steps which they take to protect that data meet or exceed every Rokkenjiman metric for protection purposes. These measures are just a few examples of why I did not hold back punitive actions of the Imperial Government against the firms in Mktvartvelo; quite frankly, this could've been solved with a phone call. We'll see what Abstergo does as it pursues actions under the MCUR, however, I remain hopeful that such actions will not be necessary ultimately. However, not even I have seen what's in the "State Security Powers Act of 1974", but I can ensure you that the "Consumer Privacy and Protections Act of 2017" enacted by the Imperial Diet is much more stringent and comprehensive in its demands of companies and their interactions with consumers in the modern economy. I naturally look forward to this silly affair being resolved sooner, rather than later."

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