Lelouch nodded approvingly as he approached with Hanako, "I trust that it is, thank you," he continued with a bow before sitting. "Now then, the matters Hanako and I are here to discuss involve the Empress Emerita and the former High Commander, Ms. Hadley. Various discrepancies in the paperwork of Ms. Hadley led me to initiate an agency-wide review and investigation of the Anauša, and those issues which were uncovered were shocking to say the least. As we speak Anauša is in contact with White Widow to secure her return to Rokkenjima for formal questioning and quite possible charges."

"It is our belief," Hanako interrupted, "that the Empress Emerita was not aware of the actions of the former High Commander and was coerced into silence when the information regarding her time in Borland, and the true nature of the activities of Ms. Hadley, were handed over to Mr. Ofdensen. I have spent countless days looking over every aspect of the body of information, from files generated by Ms. Hadley to the paper trail she left, to the involvement of Mr. Ofdensen in the affair. This information, including all documents and access to the emails of Ms. Hadley and Mr. Ofdensen, will be fully provided to East Moreland for your own independent verification."

"In short, we have a situation where the former High Commander and Lord High Steward worked through their own alternative chains of command; in one case a friend of the Empress Emerita believing she was upholding her duty and the other a weasel utilizing any tool possible to delay his inevitable downfall, including schemes against members of the Anselmo family to ensure silence was upheld," Lelouch added. "If there are any questions you may have at this early juncture we may go over them, however, reviewing the full body of information tomorrow will bring it all together I feel."

Respected Minister,

It brings me great joy that the Council of Ministers has deliberated and determined that there is merit to the proposals presented by the First Empire. I will look forward to welcoming your delegation to Pyrena Castle once we have been joined by more partners to make this dream a reality. Together, with a vision towards increasing opportunities for trade and commerce throughout Mundus we may move toward a future which supports the level of economic prosperity Rokkenjima has long been confident Ardia is capable of.

In friendship;


Evanthe Rhodes
Empress of Rokkenjima
Lord Protector of Somerset

---

Respected Minister,

It was a pleasure to receive your message regarding the Trans-Ardian Railway. As more nations join this project we will move forward toward making this vision a reality, expanding our opportunities as a continent and making the transport of goods and people more swift and efficient. I shall look forward to meeting with you in Pyrena as this project gains support and nears fruition.

In friendship;


Evanthe Rhodes
Empress of Rokkenjima
Lord Protector of Somerset

The First Empire has long held the belief that trade and commerce between free states leads to an atmosphere of joint growth and prosperity which reduces the risks of conflict and division which engulf certain regions of Mundus. Through reducing the barriers to trade and the movement of people and goods it is within our capabilities to build those links which will restore Ardia as a principle economic engine of Mundus, enrich the economic fortunes of our respective nations, and improve the standard of living enjoyed throughout Ardia. To effect these goals and bring about a new era of economic prosperity and opportunity the First Empire proposes to the Eastern nations of Ardia a proposal, the Trans Ardia Partnership.

The backbone of the Trans Ardia Partnership will be a network of high-speed railways which will bridge the distances between our nations and enable the swift and efficient transport of goods upon the continent. The Pan Ardia Railway will link ports from the Rokkenjima Sea, the Mhorish Sea and the Matildas, providing new economic opportunities and the fruition of a new Trans-Ardia Trade Zone. Through this Trade Zone Ardian economies can reach new markets, provide new economic opportunities for their citizens and businesses, and increase opportunities for investments in new and emerging fields. The First Empire also sees the role in which Gowu can play in this initiative and is prepared to strengthen Gowu's access to the Pan Ardia Railway via sea links between Gowu, Azukishima Prefecture, and the Pan Ardia Railway.

The First Empire invites the nations of Eastern Ardia to meet so that we may discuss the future of this proposal, as well as ensuring that the Pan Ardia Railway, and the Initiative itself, may be expanded Westward should such interest be shown. Through the strong ingenuity and spirit of hard work we hold in our hands a proposal to further the economic strength of Ardia and ensure that economic prosperity benefits all of our Peoples for generations to come. I look forward to your replies, as well as setting forth a formal date for discussions on the fruition of the Trans-Ardia Partnership.

In friendship;


Evanthe Rhodes
Empress of Rokkenjima
Lord Protector of Somerset

To: King David III of East Moreland

It will be my pleasure to welcome both yourself and Foreign Minister Tamana to Bethesda as Somerset takes its first free steps into the world. There will be a few topics I wish to discuss with you personally, however, I am certain the opportunity will arise for us to speak. May your voyage to Somerset be peaceful and safe.

In friendship;


Evanthe Rhodes
Lord Protector of Somerset
Empress of Rokkenjima

---

To: Archbishop Chandra Ashtekar

The Commonwealth looks forward to your arrival as we celebrate this day of Somerset's independence. I have great hopes for the friendship which may be forged between Somerset and the Ecclesiastical State, and cannot wait to have the opportunity to speak with you.

In friendship;


Evanthe Rhodes
Lord Protector of Somerset
Empress of Rokkenjima

---

To: Minister Ciknije

The Commonwealth does not preclude any nation from its invitation and would certainly hope to see a representative of the Lakhzov Republic present on Establishment Day. While relations may be complicated due to circumstances outside of our control I believe we may discuss mutual concerns, as well as a path forward in regards to present security concerns. Although the path may be difficult Somerset does not see adversity as a certainty in our relations with Lakhzovia and will welcome opportunities to ensure cordial relations are given a fair chance.

In friendship;

Gregory McKenna
Governor of Somerset

---

To: Provisional President Uttaman

I, like yourself, share a vision for our region which sees the collective voices of self-determination establishing a future of peace and prosperity for all. To receive a representative of the Utman Republic would bring me great joy, however, I do believe our meetings will have to be more private given the present state of the Somerset Defense Force and the growing uncertainty of Lakhzov policy and military actions. If it would be possible I would wish to welcome a representative to meet with Governor McKenna and myself, who would be welcome to stay in the days following Establishment Day for a more formal tour of Bethesda. I take these measures for our joint security and also to ensure we will have an opportunity to speak at length as to the future of our relationship.

I look forward to your reply.


Evanthe Rhodes
Lord Protector of Somerset
Empress of Rokkenjima

---

To: Siegismund von Thaller, Minister of Foreign Affairs

I certainly understand that business occupies the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Duke himself, and shall be looking forward to the arrival of your diplomat. I am confident that we may build friendship and cooperation between our nations. Somerset looks forward to celebrating this day with Herrenbucht in our company.


Evanthe Rhodes
Lord Protector of Somerset
Empress of Rokkenjima

---

To: King Finley

Somerset will graciously accept any whom Ui Cennselaig wishes to send to join Somerset on this day of celebration and independence. As Somerset proclaims its sovereignty I look forward to stronger relations between Somerset and Ui Cennselaig. I look forward to this, and future, opportunities to build upon the bonds which exist between our Peoples.

In friendship;


Evanthe Rhodes
Lord Protector of Somerset
Empress of Rokkenjima

---

The city of Bethesda was alive as its citizens took part in the various celebrations that had been arranged for Establishment Day. Evanthe and Gregory stood ready to greet their visitors from across Mundus, joined by Lord High Steward Koizumi who would take part in a ceremony symbolizing Somerset's transition from an Imperial Overseas Dependency to a sovereign nation of equal standing. The path to independence had been long and, at some points, unclear, though she had every confidence that Somerset had made the right decision. In Urakawa City a ceremony was scheduled to see the Rokkenjiman Flag lowered and replaced with the Flag of Somerset over governmental buildings (save the Office of Illumic and Tripartite Affairs), marking a formal end of Rishiri and its reunion as an indivisible part of Somerset.

OOC: If Ach wishes to jump to his statement we can proceed to that point. I'll have no objections.

"In ages past we saw at several times games played between great powers, and while the methods may have been more brutal they were also more honest, more straight-forward, with less pretenses of supporting democracy and the struggle for self-determination. Today we see all of the ingredients coming together to open Lakhzovia as the next board in this long-running game: the Utman, the perceived election issues, a foreign embassy in literal flames. That the Megitsune didn't give flight to her helicopters during that affair is a great surprise, but also a relief, as I am sure we can both see just how wrong that could have quickly gone."

"It is of great disappointment that relations between our nations have fallen to these depths, however, it's the situation we are unfortunately forced to work with. You ask how Evanthe's sights my be turned from Lakhzovia, well, Saheristan certainly is doing you few favours in that regard. Each missile which takes to the skies, coupled with exercises of air and naval power, only fuels the legitimacy Pyrettania and Valtheim require to deploy further forces to the region under the guise of keeping the Matildas' "safe and open" for international shipping, and that is to say nothing of the attention this has invited from the Iwi's CNN allies. Already we see a Ui Cennselaig fleet deployed to the Commonwealth while the Morelanders are loaning defensive systems to the Iwi. Saheristan's actions have made the situation worse and must be reined in should you wish to deny legitimacy to any further deployments."

"Entering into a military escalation will help no one at this point, and I feel once you've ensured Saheristan behaves better the path before us will become clearer. Now while I recognize talks regarding the Utman are a toxic idea to you unfortunately there will eventually have to be some 'give' in this regard. I'm not suggesting granting any legitimacy to the Utman, however, keeping the door open for talks actually gives you the upper hand. Denying even the possibility of talks allows them to write a narrative which removes Lakhzovia's voice from the equation. We need to bring that narrative back under Lakhzov control, which also goes back to reigning in Saheristan: this doesn't work if we have a loose cannon undermining things."

Beatrice produced the statement from Arstotzka, which she was certain Sachim had seen before.

DIMITRY KAMINSKY RELEASES PUBLIC STATEMENT ON UTMAN SITUATION

"The current events happening as of now in Lahkzovia, and the now newborn nation of Utman, has now been on eye by most nations on Mundus now. The fact that tensions are rising right at our country's doorstep, should also not let us ignore it as well, we have been planning possible scenarios if this situation goes haywire and the nation of Utman and Lahkzovia could plunge into war, we will act quickly, and we will not stop or be stopped by anyone with an opposite opinion. This also applies to the ludicrous statement made by Saheristan, deeming us as "terrorists", and their offers to sever diplomatic ties with us, along with Iwi and Rashidun, which we obliged to do unhesitatingly. Our nation must not be threatened by Lahkzovia and his little brother Saheristan, and we will act with force if they decide to plunge into combat measures."

"We can avoid a future which sees Lakhzovia reduced to ruins in yet another iteration of the long-running games of the great powers. To do that, however, we must approach this with wisdom, nimbleness and patience. When it comes to Lakhzovia you must set standards for military actions, including exercises, as such actions have great consequences. To be sure military exercises can send a strong message, however as I have highlighted, when taken foolishly they can open the door to complications which you cannot afford right now."

To our Friends, Allies, And Honoured Neighbours;

Following a long process of deliberation within the Civil Administration, combined with a series of referendums involving the People of Somerset throughout the process, the Civil Administration today delivered its final act as a body of government.

"Having accomplished the task of guiding Somerset through its transition from Rokkenjiman sovereignty effective Noon, September 27th 2017, the Provisional Government is hereby abolished. Henceforth the Commonwealth of Somerset shall stand proud as a sovereign Nation, the master of her own course."

On October 1st, 2017 I shall be hosting a ceremony in our capital of Bethesda to mark this transition with dignitaries from abroad so that we may forge friendships and relationships with the world around us. It is the hopes and aspirations of Somerset to engage her regional and continental neighbours toward peaceful and prosperous endeavours.

As Somerset formally establishes her independence we see a time of crisis and violence erupt upon our Eastern border, a state of affairs which brings our security under increased threat. This has necessitated the deployment of the Somerset Defense Forces to the Lakhzov border region. As a force which has made great strides in its rebuilding efforts I fear the SDF is not n a position to provide sustained security for the Lakhzov border. I have to this point precluded Rokkenjiman forces to supplement the border as to ensure tensions do not flare between the Commonwealth and the Lakhzov Republic. This is a position the Commonwealth will continue to hold onto until such a time the situation in Lakhzovia presents a clear and definite danger to the People and interests of Somerset.

While I will be on hand for the ceremonies and functions of the day, day-to-day power will continue to reside with Governor McKenna until such a time I am capable of returning to Somerset. However, given the present crisis on our border, I will be remaining in Bethesda to work hand-in-hand with Governor McKenna to ensure the safety of our People and the security of our borders.

In Friendship;


Evanthe Rhodes
Lord Protector of Somerset
Empress of Rokkenjima

OOC: This can be disregarded.

The departure of the Holy Empire from the Commonwealth Treaty Organisation is most unfortunate, however, it does not impact the mission nor the commitment of the Commonwealth in the pursuit of its duties, ideals and crucial work in the community of nations. In the coming days member nations of the Commonwealth, joined by prospective members, will be gathering in the City of Aldspring where the Commonwealth was born to chart its course in the near-term as well as the long term. This Summit presents all present to contribute to a renewed foundation for the Commonwealth, especially those who were not present for the original Commonwealth Conference.

The timing of the Holy Empire's departure is most unfortunate as it is a time which sees the Commonwealth finding its footing yet again. In the past the First Empire had been forced into a hesitancy to act given the circumstances surrounding the Andean Genocide. Aside from this hesitancy, other mistakes and miscalculations were made by the Imperial Government along the way which, unfortunately, precluded it from acting. However, as we see before us in Lakhzovia, the First Empire has taken a forceful course of action so as to prevent yet another tragedy playing out before our eyes. Rokkenjiman funding, which accounts for a majority of overall funding of the Commonwealth, continues at its previous rates and may expand to account for the loss of the Holy Empire.

Today is a new era for the Commonwealth, one in which we determine our future and the type of institution we desire it to be. While it will be unfortunate that the Holy Empire will not be a part of this new era the Commonwealth is not one focused upon one nation: it will continue and find renewed strength in the absence of the Holy Empire. We have a unique opportunity before us today to establish firmly what the Commonwealth will be and the role it will play in the community of nations. Rokkenjima will work with all nations, present and perspective, in ensuring the Commonwealth is a viable and effective institution as we move into the future.

We note the contributions of the Holy Empire and naturally thank the Government and People for them. It is unfortunate that we shall not be moving forward together.


Evanthe Rhodes
Empress of Rokkenjima
Duchess-Regent of Somerset

Beatrice smiled as she spoke with Kadassa; she'd known that there were questionable qualities about the man, however, she never believed that his actions were taken in malice. At heart, she believed, he was a leader who always acted to preserve his nation just as she had acted during the Second Patriotic War to free Rokkenjima. "I never thought the opportunity would again exist, however, if there were any time it was needed it is now. Some time before my removal from the Throne I made clear my displeasure with the Valtheim approach towards crisis response and, today, we see a build-up of military forces and hardware around Lakhzovia which would make any nation fearful of what is to come next."

"As soon as I have secured the permission and blessings of all involved I would be honoured to speak with you, personally, on finding a resolution to this unfortunate crisis. Once this has been acquired I will be in a position to build a delegation where we may meet to discuss ratcheting down tensions, de-escalating the military situation, and ensuring that Lakhzovia's sovereignty is preserved and respected throughout this process. As for the removal of your government," Beatrice paused as she looked to Evanthe, "I give you my personal assurances I will do my best to prevent that. Any incursion into Lakhzovia would be the prelude to a tragedy, and I would pray the 'Diplomat Empress' knows that defeat and suffering can only follow such a pursuit."

"Give me a few moments to consult with the Empress and our partners and, hopefully, I may return to you with confirmation that we shall soon be speaking. May Islyna's patience guide your hand, and her compassion your heart."

Following recent developments the First Empire no longer believes that the decision to dissolve the Cross-Straits Treaty Organisation and join it into LISA is one which has enhanced our security or placed us in a better position to accomplish those goals we originally set out to accomplish. Furthermore, the First Empire no longer holds faith in the Nation or People of Achkaerin to stand by our nations as a trusted partner or Treaty ally.

It is the opinion of the Imperial Council that our nations, together, should re-evaluate the fruition of LISA and consider a return to the Cross-Straits Treaty Organisation. As original members of the CSTO we must consider the bonds which led to the CSTO, and whether or not those same bonds exist with Valtheim and those nations who joined from the CIS. If it would please you all I would welcome your presence at Pyrena Castle to discuss the future of our alliance. Unfortunately I feel that LISA is a failed venture and we would be better served in a revival of the CSTO it endeavours to replace.

I look forward to your replies as we meet this mutual concern.

In friendship;

Euphemia Anselmo
Vicegerent of Rokkenjima

Nay.

Empress Evanthe presented a dismal picture of the Rokkenjiman-Lakhzov relationship, which has reached new lows in recent days as the treaty partners appear incapable of reaching a common understanding. "Instead of pursuing the assistance of her allies, Lakhzovia has instead determined itself upon a course of internal escalation which sees Lakhzov and Saheristani troops being deployed throughout Lakhzovia. The lack of effort shown by President Kadassa in addressing the deficit of trust and faith introduced by the Election Crisis, an effort which the First Empire offered its assistance as a friend in undertaking, is a development which is of utmost concern to the First Empire as it witnesses the deteriorating situation within Lakhzovia."

ARTICLE II

The Parties will contribute toward the further development of peaceful and friendly international relations by strengthening their free institutions, by bringing about a better understanding of the principles upon which these institutions are founded, and by promoting conditions of stability and well-being.

ARTICLE IV

The Parties will consult together from time to time regarding the implementation of this Treaty and, at the request of either Party, whenever the security of the Parties or international peace and security upon Ardia or Cotf Aranye is threatened.

ARTICLE V

Each Party shall agree to consult upon matters of common security and interests, whether they concern Ardia and/or Cotf Aranye, directly or abroad.

"President Kadassa has consistently weakened those free institutions which exist within Lakhzovia, even with a release of the results we have no verifiable manner in which to frame them, only the word of President Kadassa and his Government. To date the reports we do have available point a picture of an organised campaign of voter suppression and intimidation, coupled with the bias of state media and processes designed to rush the process in such a manner as to deny a large portion of the population their right to vote. The Hand of Emet militia, which is highlighted as having engaged in voter suppression as well as various hate crimes against those of Utman heritage, also spearheaded the assault against the Rokkenjiman Embassy."

"The perpetuation of a Government through fear is an institution which weakens the core of any free society, the methods to which it will go to perpetuate that existence are as reprehensible as they are shocking. President Kadassa, through ignoring the ample assistance offered, has left the Pyrettania-Nakim Accord in a state of complete and utter tatters. It is hard to see a conceivable situation in which the Accord could survive at this point, a state of affairs which brings Rokkenjima no joy nor satisfaction. It is clear that, in the coming days, a firm decision on the future of the Accord is certainly demanded."


As the Empress spoke Imperial High Command confirmed that IRN Enterprise and her battle group were being diverted from routine patrols in the Krimeon Sea to supplement IRN Megitsune's presence in Peniche Bay. Fielding fifth-generation RK-80-Ns the air wing of the Excalibur provides further options should the Empress be pushed to act. "For an Empress who asked for two diplomatic solutions for each military solution to any given crisis, those few diplomatic options available are quickly being exhausted," one official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, shared with the RBC. "Discussions between the Empress, the Imperial Diplomatic Corps and Imperial High Command are increasingly tense as diplomacy yields few notable results."

Upon the Empress' departure she took a question regarding Al-Šāṭi, specifically concerning a "a pro-Utman Rokkenjima-Achkaerin axis." "Rokkenjima has not recognized the Utman Republic, so any notion of a pro-Utman Rokkenjima-Achkaerin axis is poppycock. Rokkenjima has made clear its concerns regarding the conduct of the Lakhzov elections and, as a treaty ally of Lakhzovia, has shown her concern for the situation developing within Lakhzovia. Rokkenjima and Achkaerin remain committed to a peaceful resolution, and I feel that if diplomacy is granted a chance by President Kadassa we may yet see peace prevail. However, unless President Kadassa shows commitment to that process, having seen the worst which lay within the human heart, Rokkenjima and Achkaerin must stand prepared for we may never see such tragedy transpire yet again."

 The RBC will bring you the latest as this story develops.

"Well then," Evanthe said as she shared the view with Beatrice, "things have gone from bad to worse rather quickly. Any window which Beatrice would have to act is quickly closing as Kadassa grows seemingly more desperate as the hours pass. The Imperial Government is coordinating its response fully with Achkaerin, though the hour may be fast approaching for a joint statement outlining our position in no unclear terms. Certainly news of potential terrorist links complicates any position we may take, however."