The Báslan Dilemma

(OOC: This is an rp made by me, Luna and Tuva over what is the contentious matter of the Báslan islands. Currently the first few posts will be ones jointly written by me and Luna.)

15th August, 2024
Royal Palace, Osfjord, Norgsveldet

Wilhelm Kirkeland looked at his Witcain wrist watch, giving a small nod as he dusted off whatever dust might have gathered on his lap before straightening his red tie. The prime minister is wearing a typical black and white dress suit for the meeting he will be having. He gave two knocks on the door before placing his hands behind his back, readying a polite smile on his lips. Though he obviously didn’t show it, the prime minister had small nerves that had been gathering. That was unavoidable with what he was going to be requesting.

“Come in.” The king’s voice spoke up loud and clear through the door.

Opening the door to the king’s office Kirkeland would see the large expenses that had been made to maintain it all. With a large painting behind the king who was sitting behind his long mahogany desk, the painting being of none other than Haakon III. Arguably most popular monarch in Norgsveltian history. Certainly at least by their Akuan minority. Olav was wearing his Royal uniform as preparation for today’s meeting, with Wilhelmina pouring her husband a cup of coffee.

“Mr. Kirkeland, as precise as always.” The king kept a polite smile as he stood up from his chair, and reached out to shake his prime minister’s hand.

“It would be poor manners to arrive late for a meeting that I personally requested after all, your majesty.” Kirkeland said with a low chuckle as he gave a deep bow with his head before grabbing Olav’s hand, shaking it firmly. Or with how much tighter the king’s grip was it be more correct that Olav was the one shaking it firmly.

“And a sudden one as well. We usually hold our meetings at the end of the month.” The king said, keeping his warm smile as he then let go and gestured for his wife to shake the prime minister’s still outreached hand.

Wilhelmina didn’t raise her voice towards the Prime Minister, barely acknowledging his existence on the best of times. She didn’t shake his hand until her husband gave her a polite nudge, making her shake the baby killer’s hand.

Kirkeland gave the Queen a polite smile as he shook her hand trying best to ignore her uncharacteristic coldness. After which he was gestured by the King to sit down at the chair in front of the desk. With him sitting down as the king poured him a cup of coffee, giving him it before sitting down himself.

“Now may I inquire about the purpose of this meeting, Mr. Kirkeland? I must assume it has to be of high importance seeing it couldn’t wait until the end of the month.” Olav raised an eyebrow at his prime minister, taking a sip from his cup.

“You’d be correct, it would be of very high importance, your majesty.” Kirkeland said with a small sigh, taking a sip from his own cup to calm his nerves. His brown eyes glanced towards the Queen as he put down his cup. “One which is reserved to a matter only discussed between Crown and State.”

Olav slowly put down his cup at that, giving a slight suspicious look towards his prime minister but nonetheless gave a nod before looking up towards his wife that was standing next to him. Her short height did only make her slightly taller than him when he was sitting down. “Dear, you think you could leave my office for a small moment? I’ll try to not have the meeting take too long.” He said in a warm sweet tone placing a hand on hers, dwarfing her far smaller hand as he caressed it.

“Anytime sweetie.” The kemonomimi gave a warm smile, leaning to kiss her husband. Giving a harsh look towards Kirkeland, then taking her leave of the room. Muttering something in Nys’tat’ten under her breath.

After hearing the office door close Kirkeland would let out a small sigh before looking back towards the king. “As your majesty may know, the matter of Báslan has yet to be resolved.” He spoke in a firm and utter determined tone. “For almost ten years those islands remained in a status of joint occupation with our… partners in the UCCS. In which this year is gonna mark the end of the occupation, with Báslan finally having its own government once more.”

“Yet I can sense there is a tidbit that made the matter more difficult.” Olav said, taking another sip from his coffee cup.

“Quite. Your majesty. For almost two years now I’ve attempted to convince President Minerva Todd to withdraw from the islands, and allow for an unified democratic and equal Báslan government to be established. To avoid any further bloodshed be spilled against the Ulvriktru and Akuanist communities in those islands. Yet, despite it all, Mrs. Todd remained determined to stay on those islands.” Kirkeland couldn’t help but frown as he thought about the dozens of phone calls he had with the UCCS president. All ending up with both leaders frustrated, neither of them willing to back away from their prefered group on those islands.

“I am not exactly surprised, Mr. Kirkeland. Mrs. Sverdrup tried for six long years to convince Todd and her predecessor to leave Báslan. With no success. In many ways you’re following behind Sverdrup there.” The king said calmly, putting down his cup.

The prime minister went quiet with that, thinking for a small moment before continuing on. “That is why, when the deadline comes, me and my cabinet have decided the best course of action is to force the UCCS’s hand. Mrs. Todd is determined on the idea of dividing that poor nation, a repeat of Atlalandr. West and East once more.” He kept a firm look towards the king. “I will make it clear, your majesty. As a nation we cannot let that happen. It is in our moral duty to ensure Báslan is unified under an democratic and equal society. To give Báslanians an opportunity to live in freedom for the first time in their lives.”

Olav was quiet for a moment, slowly nodding along as he listened to his prime minister speaking with such a level of determination. “I see… And how does the government plan on forcing President Todd to finally withdraw from the islands? They’ve been rather determined to have the authoritarians of the PPB return to power.” He raised an eyebrow at Kirkeland.

“That… is part of the reason why this meeting was called, your majesty.” Kirkeland let out a small sigh once more, feeling his back about hunch before he straightened himself up again. “My government would like to request the authorization of naval deployment. To place the Eastern Isles of Báslan under a special naval exclusion zone.”

“A blockade.” The king said firmly, interrupting the prime minister for a small moment.

“…Yes, it could be considered as such.” Kirkeland grabbed his cup taking a small sip from it before putting it down. “The purpose is to cut the UCCS’s garrison on the Eastern Islands from supply. Should Todd still not relent even after the IRN successfully does its operations, Norgsveltian and Báslanian marines will capture the islands with force.”

“That is entirely dependent on if our navy will be successful in this matter. We will likely have to face the UCCS navy.” Olav couldn’t help but narrow his eyes towards his prime minister as he spoke.

“Maybe, but it’s not a guarantee. In my opinion, your majesty. I doubt Mrs. Todd is willing to escalate the matter, the islands are not of grave importance to the UCCS. They are highly unlikely to challenge us over it when we show we are willing to fight about it.” Kirkeland leaned forward, his eyes once more filled with determination. “I assure you, your majesty. When push comes to shove. Mrs. Todd will withdraw from the islands.”

“That is not up to her now, is it? She’s not the Commander in Chief. Allio Hensen is.” The king said his eyes were still narrow at the prime minister.

“True, but then it depends if Hensen is willing to oppose his president. And If that happens, I think the UCCS is gonna have to deal with more important issues than Báslan.” Kirkeland gave a small smile saying that.

For a moment there was silence in the room as the two leaders just looked towards each other. The king simply grabbed his cup, taking a sip from it as he thought about it. “And what would the international community say? If we are not careful we can be seen as aggressors.”

“I will assure that our diplomats will be working day in and day out to have our allies be on board with this. The UCCS might be powerful, but they lack friends and they have many enemies.” Kirkeland leaned back into his chair, grabbing his cup once more, taking a sip from it before putting it down. “So I will ask. Will the government have the Crown’s approval to order the Imperial Realms Navy to set up the exclusion zone?”

Olav couldn’t help but let out a heavy sigh as he put down the cup. Part of him thought it was too risky, but in certain ways he couldn’t help but sympathize with Kirkeland’s position. Nor does it feel right to obstruct the government’s position again so shortly after the constitutional crisis two years ago. “…The government has the Crown’s full support to ensure a unified and free Báslan is established.”

Kirkeland let out a small sigh of relief at that, a smile forming on his lips. “Thank you, your majesty. I will assure you that our government will do the utmost it can with this support.” He was genuinely happy about having the king’s approval to use their navy to solve this matter.

“I would expect so. Now was there anything else that needed to be discussed?” Olav said, raising an eyebrow at his prime minister, smiling politely even If part of him wishes to end the meeting here.

“Right there is another matter.” Kirkeland had a small nervous smile before clearing his throat. Realizing the most difficult part is yet to come. “When the 28th August arrives and in which Todd will get her ultimatum. It is also when naturally, what will become known as the Federal Republic of Báslan is established. Which will have a coalition government made up of a varying range of parties.” He explained with the king nodding his head in understanding. “What I will ask of you is more of a personal request, rather than an official request from my government.” His smile turned to a more polite and confident one as he kept his eyes on the king. “I think, on the purpose of putting a moral boost to the Báslanian people and putting full hearted enthusiasm to the establishment of their Federal Republic. That it would be wise If you were to visit Báslan and hold a speech for your support to this new born democracy.” His tone was in an passionate, almost already victorious way, as he spoke.

Though Olav was quiet for a moment, simply raising an eyebrow at the prime minister gave a curious look down at him. “Are you asking me to go to Báslan on the same day as the blockade of the Eastern Islands will be enacted? Despite the risks that would entail should the UCCS choose to escalate the matter?”

“Your majesty, there are no risks involved. I am certain that President Todd will not escalate the matter in any way or form. You will be completely safe, and it is better if you’re there at the establishment of their republic to show solidarity with our Báslanian brothers and sisters.” Kirkeland spoke in a completely friendly tone, though not saying it. This was the main reason he came here personally. He needed the king to be at Báslan for this to work, Todd would never risk war If Olav was in Báslan, it would be a practical demand to start a continental war.

“Mr. Kirkeland, how can you be sure of that? How are you so certain that she wouldn’t try to escalate the matter?” Olav kept his eyebrow raised, his arms crossed as he questioned his prime minister.

“Your majesty, I have spoken with her several times. Rest assured I know her, she will not try to challenge the IRN’s exclusion zone when it is enacted. You have my full confidence that you would be completely safe in western Báslan when all of this is occurring.” Kirkeland kept his friendly tone, taking a sip from his cup again, finishing it. “If needed we will increase the security in the west if for some reason you still think it wouldn-”

The door was less than politely thrown open, with the queen storming in, raising her finger to point towards the prime minister. A flurry of Nys’tat’en words coming out of her mouth and utterly incomprehensible to Kirkeland, Olav barely able to understand her when she doesn’t surpass her Borean accented Nys’tat’en. However Kirkeland could most understand her point despite the language barrier.

Both mens eyes widened at the sudden opening of the door and yelling that came soon after, the prime minister standing up from his chair hurriedly as she approached him with rage in her yellow eyes. His chair fell to the side as he did so. His hands up in the air defensively as he looked down at the short Queen. “Y-Your Majesty I assure you, you must be misunderstanding things.” He said in a nervous tone as he took a step back, the bit older man speaking in Norgsveltian.

Olav was also quick to get out of his chair as he walked around the desk saying a few words in Nys’tat’en to calm his wife down as he placed his large hand on her shoulder pulling her away slightly. “It’s alright, calm down sweetie. I can handle it.” He said now in Norgsveltian, speaking in a soft tone.

She did not in-fact, calm down as her husband tried to pull her away. Wilhelmina giving a few more unkind words in Nys’tat’en towards the man before finally speaking in some broken Norgsveltian. “You’re not risking my children’s father on your…” She spoke something in Nys’tat’en. As she gestured her finger towards him. “Baby murdering political-” She spoke more in Nys’tat’en, letting loose a whole number of issues she had with Kirkeland.

“Your majesty I assure you, your husband will be completely safe. I would never ever suggest risking the life of our dear king.” Kirkeland said in a reassuring tone, placing a hand on his heart, while taking another step back which caused his back to hit the desk. “I promise you, he will be safe.”

Olav still kept a hand on his wife’s shoulder both to try to stop her in his tracks but also to comfort her as he spoke once more a bit in Nys’tat’en to calm her down. Or attempt to do so.

Wilhelmina being held back by her husband couldn’t advance any more towards the man. Though her words still haven’t stopped, her Nys’tat’en breaking every now and then for Norgsveltian. “Father first! You preve-” She keeps her accusing finger towards him, “You’re problem baby killing father kil-” Another break up in Nys’tat’en.

“I think… It would be best if we end our meeting here, Mr. Kirkeland.” Olav said in a serious tone as he looked down towards his prime minister, giving a gesture with his head for him to leave.

“I… I think so as well.” Kirkeland said, letting out a tired sigh before straightening his tie giving a nod towards the King and towards the Queen, though he only got a respectful nod from the King. The Queen simply glaring and cursing him in Nys’tat’en. He had to move a bit sideways to avoid getting too close to the Queen. Though before he left the office he stopped up and turned towards Olav. “Do… think over my suggestion, your majesty. I think it would be wise.”

Before Olav could even respond, Wilhelmina spoke up instead. Kirkeland vaguely understood some parts of her very lovely Nys’tat’en words towards him implying that he eats dead baby’s hearts… That or he gets sensual satisfaction from abortions numbers being high. He didn’t quite stick around long enough to find out what she meant.

17th August, 2024
Osfjord, Norgsveldet

The Prime Minister was tapping his desk with his pen over and over again as he sat in his office thinking about the meeting he had with the king. It has been two days, yet no further information have he gotten about what his Majesty’s decision will be. He was of course relieved that he got permission to be allowed to enact the blockade. But his plan to use the king as a ploy to help deter any potential escalation from the UCCS seemed now unlikely. At least he found it hard to believe the queen would even allow her husband to go to West Báslan. He genuinely didn’t expect her to react the way she did either. Very uncharacteristic from how the Queen acted and was shown in the media and how others spoke about her. The more he thought about it, the more annoyed he got as well. The fact she was listening in to a private meeting that was only supposed to be between him and the king was frustrating enough, but that she also accused him of being a ‘baby killer’? That’s just insulting.

A small sigh left him as he placed his pen down, rubbing the bridge of his nose. The last year has been rough domestically. From the reignition of the Abortion Debate leading to his coalition with the Ulvriktru Democrats collapsing, one which Mr. Varg has taken advantage of, through political alliances with Nationalists and Akuanists. That not to even mention the riots and far right political violence that has happened in Nyveldet. Though a lot of these matters was able to be dealt with through sending the Home Guard, the optics of the ‘disorder’ so early in his term certainly didn’t help him in the opinion polls. In particular the polarization over his decision to attempt to improve the right of abortion. More so after an Akuan woman was arrested and carried out by a Home Guard soldier for vandalizing another abortion clinic. Even his daughter having been targeted by Pro-Life groups, her car ties being sliced one time so she couldn’t get to work. All while both him and many others within his cabinet get called for being ‘baby murders’. He would have defended himself at the meeting If it wasn’t for his shock and the fact that it hardly improved his chances in getting the king to help him with Báslan.

Not that mattered too much now. Though his thoughts were broken by the ringing of his phone. He was quick to answer it, not even looking at the id of the caller. “Kirkeland’s office.” He spoke in a professional if not tired tone.

“Mr. Kirkeland, may I have a small moment of your time?” The king’s voice spoke through in a clear tone.

The prime minister’s eyes widened for a moment, his back instinctively straightening. Acting almost as if he was speaking with the king face to face. “Of course, your majesty.” He kept his professional tone even if it was clear he was taken aback.

“I’ll try to keep this short for your sake, prime minister. I’ve thought over the matter of our meeting, in a rather deeper detail.” The king’s voice was the same clear deep tone as always. “Including discussing the matter with my wife.”

Kirkeland couldn’t help but internally sigh at that. “I see… That is understandable with the topic at hand.” While he kept his own professional tone, he couldn’t help but already wonder If he needed to reconsider his plans.

“And I’ll do the speech.”

Kirkeland’s eyes widened at that and a relief came over him as he was about to state his thanks to the king. But the king was not done yet.

“However.” And with that the prime minister was back to worrying. “I will not be staying there during the enactment of the exclusion zone. Instead of relying on my presence to help dissuade escalation, I would suggest inviting more nations to be a part of this operation.”

Kirkeland sat in his chair, quiet after hearing that, his fingers once more tapping against his desk. “I am doubtful we will be able to get the UCA into this, especially with the varying opinions that different members had with Kaldrbuth’s actions in Mkæniszna.” He spoke in a questioning tone. “That not to even mention the risk of the operation being leaked increasing by the amount of nations involved. I’m doubtful it would be wise risking the unity of the UCA and increasing the chance of a leak by dragging them in.”

“That is why I was going to suggest doing this on behalf of the Crown Realm instead. It’s not really about the force pushed out, but rather the diplomatic message and image of us not acting alone.”

Kirkeland took a moment to think through that idea, to consider the cons and pros. “It will likely be an easier sell at least…”

“Certainly it would be easy to convince Madam Pierre.” He heard the king say with a small chuckle, and the prime minister couldn’t help but chuckle a bit along as well.

“I think the issue would be trying to calm down the Federation on this, could have accidental escalation afterall.” Kirkeland joked slightly but he was half seriously.

“Then are you for it? If you are, we can easily organize an emergency meeting for the Crown Realm.”

The prime minister stayed quiet, being completely and utterly silent for at least half a minute. If not more. Afterall. If he couldn’t use his king as a way to deter Todd, then the best choice would be the diplomatic ramification of starting a conflict with not just Norgsveldet but a large coalition. “I’m completely onboard with the idea, your majesty. I will organize a meeting in Osfjord at the soonest possible time.” He spoke in a respectful tone, a smile on his lips knowing that even If his original plan had changed. His overall goal has not.

He will get the UCCS out of Báslan. Báslan shall live in liberty.

_

Olav let out a heavy sigh as he leaned in to his chair, the king wearing a pair of dress pants and a white dress shirt that hugged his muscular form. He looked over to his side, towards the doorway of his office. In which he saw his wife standing there. “Hopefully your concerns been laid to rest?” He said in an warm tone, small smile on his lips.

“No.” Wilhelmina crossed her arms looking at him with utter annoyance in her eyes. “However I will be soon enough.” She gave a ‘hphm’ at that, walking over towards her husband to give a small kiss to his forehead before sitting across from him.

“You worry about me way too much.” He said with a small chuckle before reaching over to grasp her hands, gently rubbing them as he looked down at her. “It will be just one speech than I’ll immediatly take a plane to Osfjord. I’ll be back before you know it.”

“You shouldn’t leave regardless, it’s idiotic idea to begin with.” His wife was not her typical upbeat self. Keeping a firm look towards her husband with her sharp yellow eyes. “Why doesn’t he get off his baby killing butt and go himself.”

“I doubt he is as charismatic as me dear.” He spoke with a small joking smirk on his face. Though he cleared his throat seeing her firm look not softening. “Look. It would matter quite a lot for the people there, especially among the Ulvriktru population. It wouldn’t have the same affect if Kirkeland went, especially with his… controversial policies.”

“He wants this, he can go. He should have thought about having better policies if he didn’t want them to be so controversial that he can’t go to a war zone himself.” The queen tilted her head facing her husband, still not lighting up her attitude. “Maybe he should have considered being a better speaker too.”

“Sweetie-”

“And he’s a ugly baby killing monster.”

“Sweetie, gods.” Olav couldn’t help but let out a small chuckle shaking his head in slight amusement. “Sweetie, Báslan isn’t a warzone anymore. It stopped being one a while ago. I’ll be safe, okay?” He raised an eyebrow at her saying that still smiling warmly.

“That’s a bunch of horse radish. He putting a bunch of boats with guns around a country while putting you, my husband and father of our nine children plus Jørgen in danger doing such.” Wilhelmina was getting a little annoyed at her husband chuckling and smiling. Giving a sharp look of disapproval to him, like the one she gives to the children. “I’m being serious Olav.”

“He’ll be doing that after I leave.” He said in a firm yet soft tone. “I’ve made clear with him that the naval exclusion zone shall be enacted after my departure.” He leaned forward over his desk to give her a kiss on the forehead. “You know just as much as I do that I’m not one to put myself in unreasonable danger.”

“Yes you are, a million times you have.” Wilhelmina shook her head. “Put your hand on the Sagas and swear that you’re not the type to put yourself into unreasonable danger. I want Odin to hear you lying.” She did lighten up partly, giving a small smirk at her comment.

“I do want to specify. Unreasonable danger. Every time has been perfectly rather safe for the circumstances.” He kept a warm smile, yet reached to one of his drawers to pull out the Saga he had in his office. “How about this? I will swear an Oath to come home at once the speech is over and will do everything in my power to ensure I have the highest possibility of security at all times until I am back behind these walls. Next to you.”

“You don’t need to swear an oath, I believe you. I’m just going to be upset with you for the rest of year.” Wilhelmina gave a sigh, before giving a small awkward smirk. “That being said, there is something you could do to that might make me happier, no it’s not having another child.”

“We already have nine, dear. Not including Jørgen.”

“Well it’s two things really, one is we visit my uncle together this weekend for breakfast.” Wilhelmina braced herself for his reaction.

The king just let out a heavy sigh, but nodded his head. “Alright, If it makes you happy.”

“The other is you are not allowed to get mad at me for three situations, of my choosing. We can have cute little cards made for it, like a get out of jail free card.” Wilhelmina gave a warm smile, thinking about how happy her uncle is going to be with them visiting.

“Wait Wait, no. What are you planning?” Olav let go of her hands saying that, his arms crossed as he raised an eyebrow at his much shorter wife.

“Agree or I’m going to buy dozen fake snake toys and have them hidden around your office.” Wilhelmina gave a joking tone with a smile. It was the ‘boy’ idea but what’s harm in borrowing it.

“Stop stealing ideas from Jørgen.” He let out a small sigh shaking his head. “You get one get out of jail free card. Alright?”

“Two.” Wilhelmina tilt her head, reaching out to grab her husband hand. “Two cards, and I make sure your favorite fox doesn’t mess up your bed because you decided to leave on a stupid decision.” She kept a warm soft tone despite her comment about the important visit.

“O.B is well behaved he wouldn’t do that. Also its our bed.” He kept an ‘serious’ attitude but he was more joking mood.

“We both know that fox is as well behaved snowman in the sauna.” Wilhelmina gave a small laugh. “He going to tear up your pillow and leave mine alone.”

“You and your ability to control those foxes.” Olav said with a small chuckle shaking his head before a small sigh left him as he uncrossed his arms, but lifted up a hand holding two fingers. “Two. You get only two cards. Understood?”

“Great I need to use first one right away then.” She gave a slightly awkward giggle. Rubbing the back of her husband’s hand.

“Oh no. What is it?” He gave her an concerned look as he looked down at her.

“I asked my uncle to investigate Kirkeland.” She held up a single finger in the air. “That card one.”

Olav was quiet. Very quiet for a moment as he thought how to approach… that. “Investigate what exactly?” He kept an calm reasonable tone.

“To see if there any thing that could end his political career… Not like.” She held up a finger gun. “Just see if he has like a secret family or something.” Wilhelmina scratched her husband’s hand.

“Sweetie…” He said with an tired tone, though just shook his head as she kept her finger up. “Just… ensure this does not get found out by anybody. The Crown cannot take sides in elections.” He gently grasped her hand rubbing it.

“Oh he good at not being found out, already-” She stopped before finished her sentence. Leaning over to give him a kiss on the cheek. “I’m making burgers and rice for dinner tonight.”

“I’m gonna need some Eyjarian coffee with that bombshell.” He let out a small chuckle, looking down at her with a warm smile. Even If one that very exhausted. “He really pissed you off, huh?”

“He’s a baby killing piece of filth who sent in soldiers to beat up and drag away protesters from child murdering factories.” Wilhelmina tone started to shift to be more aggressive again. “I hope the spirits bath him in the blood of children he ordered to be killed in the afterlife.”

“You can also hope and pray he loses this year’s election. That way you do not have to see him again.” Olav leaned down to give her a kiss on the forehead to calm her.

“I hope that our uncle finds something on him that make sure he forced out of politics forever.” Wilhelmina mumbles under her breath, hoping her lovely husband didn’t hear her say ‘our’ instead of hers.

The king just avoided the topic, simply giving her another kiss on the forehead. “Go finish dinner, I’m gonna make myself some coffee.” He gently rubbed her cheek saying that.

“Thank you. It actually means a lot to me.” She leaned over the desk giving her husband a peck on the lips, before standing up from her chair. Leaving her husband alone in his office. Her white tail wagging being in a far happier mood now at least.

22nd August, 2024
Osfjord, Norgsveldet

“Mr. Kirkeland, I must say this plan of yours seems rather rash.” The voice of the Eyjarian prime minister spoke up as he stood up from his chair, the elven man’s striking blue eyes narrowing as he looked towards him. “Establishing a blockade over those islands and then threatening to take them over with force If the UCCS government doesn’t agree to withdraw? I cannot see how this would end well.”

The Norgsveltian prime minister let out a sigh hearing that, his eyes looking over the meeting table that all the Crown Realm leaders have been gathered at. The table being long one with his majesty being on the very right end of it, while the Crown Realm’s Secretary General was on the very left end of it. From right across to him was noneother than the Federal Prime Minister of the Federation, Jeanne Pierre, who began speaking before he could respond to Mr. Bardsen’s question.

“Establishment of a blockade would be a act of war, in which case I suggest if we go through with this course of brinkmanship then we should be prepare if they decide they’re willing to try to break it.” The woman kept her seat rather than standing up to speak. Primary because if she did stand up, some in the room would only be able to see the top of her head rather than her fiery purple gaze. “Though I think Corperacy of Concord would prefer to keep the conflict within the islands and waters around it. We should be prepared for a more full escalation of a conflict.”

“While my nation is not necessarily opposed to supporting such an operation, the fear of this escalating to a wider conflict could increase the chance of Tiervan seeking a chance to reignite a conflict in Langeyjr.” An elven woman spoke up this, one which had gray eyes and long black hair. Wearing a suite with a dark blue tie. The elven woman in question being of course, Hannah Emmerhoff, the High Councilor of Dvalheim. Her sitting in between Kirkeland and the king. Though there was a lot of space between each leader. “My country will always stand with Norgsveldet in any conflict, but as long Twain’s government exist Soturikaup, we will have a security risk in our south.”

“We cannot let this escalate into a broader continental war.” Kjolf spoke up again, becoming clearly more opposed to his idea by the second. “The moment this escalates from a minor conflict on those islands to a broader war is the moment my country becomes the battlefield in question.”

“I propose we don’t only blockade the islands, but overwhelm Corpos more broadly. Blockade around the islands, freedom of navigation acts around Lagneyjr along with aircraft exercises, I can speak with the Ymir PM about requesting the removal of the UCCS military base off Ymirland.” Pierre added in. “We have to include allies outside the Crown Realm, however if we place a focus on the blockade of the islands, while actively pushing UCCS in other aspects, politically and militarily. Then it would lessen the risk in Langeyjr for sparking a conflict. It would require deploying in greater strength than it would simply go with a blockade, but it would lessen the risk of it spilling over into other regions in the Crown Realm.”

“I would be willing to station troops from my army to Dvalheim If it lessens the fear of a conflict to start up in Langeyjr.” The Tangrian Minister-President spoke up, the dark skinned elven woman being dressed in religious clothing of her Tangrianist faith. Of dark green robes with golden symbology around it. “My country is fully ready to fulfill our commitment to the Crown Realm‘s defense.”

Mrs. Emmerhoff nodded her head at the comments from the two of them. “It certainly be an act of deterrence, especially with the UCCS’s foolish decision to establish an military base in that Hirdist country.”

“I’m quite surprised that other leaders here are not more alarmed of the possibility of this escalating beyond our ability to contain it.” Kjolf shook his head listening to the three as he sat down.

Jeanne looked over towards Kjolf. “The threat of escalation was never a worry when Eyjaria was taking an island away from Kyrloth.”

The Eyjarian prime minister turned his head towards the Côtois leader, his blue eyes being narrowed towards her. Though before he could speak another voice spoke up before him. A very familiar voice for everyone there. “Mrs. Todd won’t escalate, do not worry about that Mr. Bardsen.” The voice belongs to none other than Johanna Sverdrup, the new prime minister of Norgsveldet’s ‘Crown Jewel’. Small smile on her lips as she took a sip from her coffee cup. With her sitting in the corner of the table, to Pierre’s right. “The UCCS is a country whose foreign policy is driven by financial interests. They would never risk a large war for some islands that have less than two million people, not if It would mean losing the market of people with over two hundred million people.” The Valkyr PM wore an overly expensive white and blue suit, with a dress jacket that had silver buttons instead of normal plastic ones. One which most could guess her boyfriend had paid for her.

Kirkeland cleared his throat at that, finally getting his chance to speak up. “I understand your fears, Mr. Bardsen. But I would not suggest setting up this naval exclusion zone If not for the fact that I am confident this won’t escalate.” He gave the Eyjarian PM a firm look, as he tried to mostly ignore his former political rival. “If we set up a large enough naval fleet, one which has made up all our nations. We can make it clear to Mrs. Todd’s government and her Commander-in-Chief that any escalation from their side will not be worth it.”

“I have a somewhat of a working relationship with their Commander-in-Chief. I don’t believe they would escalate if it’s just the blockade, which is why we should escalate ourselves. Not to the point of war, but to the degree that they feel pressured to settle quicker, and perhaps we can achieve more than securing more just the islands.” Pierre gave a look towards Johanna, wondering why the fuck the Valkyr Prime Minister would speak up about anything militarily before reminding herself it’s Johanna and they did just establish a royal guard. She spoke before her mind caught up with her however. “How is the search for the Minister of Defense?” She didn’t mean to be offensive, it was more of an administrative issue.

“Much harder than it has any right to be.” Johanna said, shaking her head in slight annoyance. One can only assume that finding people with military leadership experience in a state filled with pacifists was rather hard to do.

The only tiefling among the leaders there spoke up, with the red skinned man being the Minister-President of Briaklandr. Which meant he technically only represented half a state rather than it fully. “May I ask why the leaders here are so certain this entire plan is even necessary? If we are certain that the UCCS would back down, why not open up for diplomacy?” He raised an eyebrow looking towards everybody there. He was sitting to the left of the Secretary General, giving him a good look to everyone there.

“Because you don’t negotiate with fascists, bullies and maniac leaders. Diplomacy is reserved for nations that are stable and don’t kneejerk out of treaties. Mrs. Todd changes her mind like a Valkyr politician changes virtual avatars. We can’t trust anything she says, we can trust somewhat the Commander-in-Chief and we would at least be assured of their word holding weight.” Pierre turned her head to face towards the tielfing.

“To add further reason with Mrs. Pierre’s statement. The UCCS for over a decade has refused to accept forming Báslan into a fully democratic nation with rights for minorities protected and then given autonomy.” Johanna spoke up rolling her eyes at Pierre’s comment yet turned her attention towards the tiefling. “They are adamant about reestablishing the authoritarian and nationalistic regime of the PPB over that country. A regime that the whole reason they fell to Duarist fundamentalism to begin with.”

“They were terrorists, not Duarists. Everything they did stood in direct opposition to Duarist values.” He said, narrowing his eyes at the Valkyr PM.

“Which is why I specified fundamentalism, Mr. Vesgard” Johanna said in a completely calm and collected tone.

He let out a small sigh at that, shaking his head before speaking up again. “Still, I do not see why we must enforce a secular government on the nation. Large majority of the nation is Duarist, one of the few in the world in fact.”

“Establishing an secular state in Báslan would be safest way to safeguard the rights of the Ulvriktru and Akuanist minorities there, ones which were targets of genocide mind you.” Kirkeland spoke up this time his eyes turning towards the tiefling, though did give a small sympathetic look. “It also gives an alternative nation for Duarists to look up to compared to the extreme religious messages of Báslan’s past regimes and the current one in Noraida.”

“Religion shouldn’t have any place in government in the first place.” Jeanne added on, in a room with a Akuan democrat, a Duarist Socdem Minister-President and the Fylkir.

Vesgard, ignoring Pierre’s comment, just let out a sigh. “Fine, I’ll relent on that. I have no love for the PPB so seeing my fellow Duarist sisters and brothers live in a truly democratic state would be something to celebrate.” He sat back down into his chair, grabbing his glass of water and taking a sip from it. “That being said. Do none of you fear the potential international backlash this could create? If we start the escalation then the UCCS can use that against us to turn the international community against us.”

“I do have to agree with that assessment.” Kjolf spoke up again, nodding his head along with Vesgard’s words. “The UCCS is in the IFSC, they can bring the matter there and should they succeed in turning that council against us then we will be acting against the IF.”

“Good thing that the Crown Realm has two nations in the Security Council then, hmm?” Johanna spoke up and gestured towards the Norgsveltian and Côtois leaders.

“We should consult other allies we have within the region, particularly the Tretridian and Tavari counterparts in the IFSC. More voices that are in our corner is better.” Pierre added on giving a look towards Johanna. Still wondering how she became prime minister of Vakrestrender, and somehow had enough gull to show her face in the Crown Realm meetings.

“That would require us to likely delay any operational plans until after we’ve consulted them. Though it would be wise to consult with them, same with our Peragian allies. Should we be able to ensure all three sides with us in any Security Council discussion then any vote on the matter would likely fail or at least tie.” Kirkeland once more ignored Johanna as he looked between Kjolf and Vesgard. “If we were to consult with more of our allies on the matter would Eyjaria and Maanbriak join the operation?”

The two men were quiet, with Vesgard looking away uncertain while Kjolf narrowed his eyes studying Kirkeland’s face before both eventually let out a sigh.

“The Eyjarian Defence Forces will stand ready to help, it will be limited but they will be there.” Kjolf gave a determined nod towards Kirkeland.

“I cannot promise anything militarily, or even diplomatically for this. I would need to be able to convince the leaders of Maankijkeland as well. They are likely even more reluctant to do this than even me.” The tiefling leader gave Kirkeland an apologetic look as well.

Though the prime minister just gave a nod of understanding before looking towards the Secretary-General. “Shall we put this to a vote then?” He said, raising an eyebrow at the only kemonomimi in the room.

“All in favor, raise your hand.” The fellow short person in the room, giving a look around the room. “Counted, those opposed raise your hand.” Giving another look around marking the tally. The kemonomimi stood up, unlike Pierre they are not bothered by being short. “Motion carries.”

30th August, 2024
Vhiriti, Báslan

Olav looked at himself in the mirror, his eyes looking up and down his outfit. It was his royal ceremonial uniform. Completely black in color with the exception of purple highlights at the ends of his outfit with the buttons of his uniform being made out of pure gold. With several medals alongside his right chest. With a ceremonial, though still sharp, saber sheeted to his hip. It’s hilt being made out of pure gold as well.

“Your majesty, are you ready?” An male voice came from behind the door to the room he was in.

“Soon.” The king replied with a small sigh before looking down at the black peeked officer’s cap that was laying on a small wooden table, the cap having the symbol of a shield with a golden eagle on it. It laying next to a pair of large black leather gloves. Putting both of them on his outfit was finally complete. “You may come in now.”

The door opened revealing a slim elven man with long brown hair tied into a ponytail, with him also wearing black and white suit with a purple tie. The tie has a golden eagle pin on it. “They are awaiting you, your majesty.” He spoke in a completely professional tone.

“Well I won’t be testing their patience any further. Thank you for notifying me, Mr. Tordtar.” Olav had a small smile as he straightened his back more and pushed out his chest as he walked forward. Gesturing towards his foreign minister to walk alongside him as he exited the room. Almost immediately the two were accompanied by group Norgsveltian marines escorting them as they walked down the halls of the city’s mayoral building. Though one that effectively has been transformed to be more like a presidential palace, having become the residence for Western Zone’s military governor.

Eventually the two would come to the building’s entrance, in which the king could not help but notice out the windows there being a large crowd that had gathered outside. In front of the two were two large dark wooden doors, with an elven woman with long black hair and brown eyes standing in front of it. The elven woman in question was wearing an white ceremonial admiral uniform, in which she immediately gave the king a salute. The marines gave him a salute as well alongside her.

“At ease.” Olav said in a firm and professional tone. Giving the elven woman a respectful nod before reaching out to give her a handshake. “Admiral Elisadatur, hope you look forward to being relieved from your duty as Governor?” He gave a more joking tone with that.

“I have no complaints about my duty as Governor, your majesty. I do everything in the name of the Crown and Fatherland.” The admiral said in an cold professional tone filled with devotion as she shook the king’s hand firmly.

“And you make your family proud by doing your duty.” He said in a warm tone though internally sighed with how formal she was doing this. “I’m assuming everything has been set up?”

“Everything has been prepared, your majesty.” Tordtar spoke up next to him. “The only thing left is your speech.”

Olav gave a nod at that. “Right. Well then, let’s give the people what they want.”

The doors opened with the bright sun immediately hitting them and the sounds of a large crowd cheering as the three walked out. The three alongside the marines guarding them being on top of an large stone staircase that lead to the entrance doors, with the crowds filling up the area’s courtyard. A small podium with a mic attached to it was erected for this occasion. Though standing on it was a gray skinned tiefling woman with long white hair with a slight wrinkle under her eyes. Her short black horns poked out from top of her head, heavy contrast to her hair. She was wearing a black and white dress suit with a yellow tie coloring her political leanings.

“Your majesty, we’ve been waiting for you.” She stepped forward with a hand reaching out to shake his hand as her full red eyes looked into his blue ones. A small smile on her lips.

Looking over her shoulder Olav saw a blonde elven man dressed in dark blue robes with runic symbols. An Gothir outfit, giving a deep bow of respect towards him. With a gray haired elderly kemonomimi woman standing next to him doing the same, a warm smile on her lips. Her being dressed in a light blue kimono, one of Brewmaster designs specifically. “I apologize for the wait.” Olav said with a small chuckle as he firmly gripped her hand. “It’s a pleasure meeting you, Bhean Finsi.”

“The pleasure is all mine.” She said with the bow of her head before stepping to the side, stepping off the podium and gesturing for him to step forward.

He nodded his head, the king keeping his warm smile as he stepped forward. Stepping up on the podium and looking down towards the crowd. He saw a very diverse crowd, while the majority was tiefling in species make up. There were large amounts of kemonomimi and elves among them, most likely coming from the large Akuanist and Ulvriktru communities on the island. Clearing his throat to get the crowd’s attention. “I have to give my thanks, for the very warm welcome I got when I came here.” He spoke in a clear and authoritative tone, though no warmth ever left him. Staying there as he spoke. “And as always I have to give my thanks to those who work tirelessly to keeping me and many others safe.” He gestured towards his left to a few Norgsveltian marines standing next to their admiral.

An applause came from the crowds as the marines gave a salute to their king, with the Admiral giving one as well as she looked towards him with a perfect stoic face. “And I give my thanks for the warm welcome I’ve also gotten from Bhean Finsi, Torskir Merkserk and Ny’Timi Yngreter. People I am glad to announce will work tirelessly for your nation’s future.” He gestured towards his right, towards the three Báslanian leaders, who gave deep respectful bows. Though many in the crowds fell quiet at the king’s words. “Yes. You heard me correctly. Today marks the day in which the long occupation of Báslan will end. For a decade your country has been under occupation, a decade since the tyranny of Liathcrain ended. Yet you never got a chance to celebrate it fully.”

Some excited whispers came from the crowds, cameras zooming in to the king’s face. “Today marks the establishment of a truly Báslanian government. One founded on the ideals of a federal and democratic nation. One in which every part of Báslan is represented.” He gestured towards the individual leaders. “One which I will promise you all this.” He leaned forward on the podium, getting closer to the mic and looking determined towards the crowd. “My country and with the help from the Crown Realm, will do anything to ensure Báslan will be a united nation. The division in Atlalandr will not occur here, I promise you all that.”

With that a large applause and cheer came from the crowds, yelling praises. Several yelled insults about the previous PPB regime ministers. Some chanted Bhean Finsi’s name, demanding a speech from her. One which the king couldn’t help but notice the tiefling leader looking a bit surprised by the crowd’s reaction. Olav gave the woman a warm smile stepping off from the podium, gesturing for her to get back on it. Though she was a bit hesitant at first she eventually walked forward, with him giving a pat on her shoulder before getting off the podium as she got on it. With him moving to stand near his foreign minister and admiral.

“My dear countrymen. I am happy to announce the establishment of the Federal Republic of Báslan. One which includes all of Báslan. We will foster a nation, a state that is based around Federalism and democracy. In which everyone in Báslan will be heard, that we will not deny the multicultural reality of these isles. We urge the UCCS to follow our Norgsveltian friends in this, we urge them to withdraw. To end the occupation in the East. As temporary president of this new Republic, will start our country’s first and true and fair election. Never again shall we fall in the clutches of authoritarianism.”

As the Báslanian president continued on with her speech the king saw his admiral leaning to the side towards him to speak in low tones. “Shall we fly you home immediately, your majesty?” She asked in a polite stoic tone.

“Not yet… I want to listen to the speech and take a moment to just take in the moment.” Olav spoke in a warm tone, his eyes not leaving the tiefling woman. “My wife would understand that at least. She understand If I’m a few hours late.”

With a nod the admiral straightened her back again, both of them and the foreign minister all having their eyes on the tiefling president. All happy that their occupation of this country has come to an end… It all now just depends if the UCCS do the same….

(Joint post with Tret)

24th August, 2024
Osfjord, Norgsveldet

Kirkeland took a moment to gather his thoughts as he took a sip from his coffee cup. He needed a moment to think about how he would bring the matter to the Tredtridian prime minister. He knew it might be a bit far-fetched to get full support for what he was going to do, but he also didn’t necessarily need it. He just needed to avoid them taking an oppositional stance. Putting down his cup he grabbed his work phone and called up Eoforwine. Clearing his throat before speaking up. “Mr. Æthelstanesunu? I hope I could take a moment of your time. If you do not mind, of course.”

Eoforwine’s voice picked up on the other end of the line. “Ah, Mr. Kirkeland,” he said. “To what do I owe the occasion?” He almost sounded chipper, at least by the standards of the famously taciturn Tretridian Prime Minister.

The Norgsveltian prime minister leaned into his office chair. “Well, it’s quite a confidential matter.” He tapped his wooden desk, looking over it through some documents he had. “As you may know, Báslan has been a matter of dispute between my nation and the UCCS. Despite the fact that it remained occupied for over a decade, there has been no headway in the creation of a unified Báslanian state.”

“I am aware.”

“As such, through heavy discussion within my government, military and crown, there is one conclusion that has come forth. My government has no choice but to think of ways to force the matter to our Concorder counterparts.” Kirkeland took the moment to take a sip of his coffee cup. “To be clear, I’m not calling for the purpose of getting your nation to support it. Rather, It is about ensuring that should Todd and her administration bring the matter to the IF Security Council, that I can rely on Tretrid’s vote. If not that, at least abstain on the matter.”

“I see,” Eoforwine said steadily. If he had any reaction to the news, he did not show it. “Do you know how risky this step is?” he asked, without a hint of judgment in his voice.

“As with everything there are risks. In this case however, I think Mrs. Todd will recognise the danger of refusing to withdraw. As such ensuring the establishment of a democratic state in Báslan.” Kirkeland took a moment before continuing on, his voice being more calm yet polite. Almost kind despite the topic. “Should she not, however. My government alongside several of our allies will do what needs to be done to establish it.”

“I understand.” There was a pause, for a brief moment. “I believe I might have an idea of the kind of situation you find yourself in. Tretrid’s own misadventures in Seccera and the crisis in Correva would make it difficult for me to advise you not to embark on this venture. But as a representative of the Tretridian state and its people, I do not believe that it is in the best interests of Tretrid to openly support Norgsveldet regarding Báslan, nor do I believe that such support would sit well with the Tretridian populace in light of previous doings abroad. Considering the imminent elections, I find that latter part more relevant than usual. I hope you understand.”

“All understandable, Mr. Æthelstanesunu. I am mainly here to ensure your nation’s neutrality on the matter, and withstanding attempts by the Concorder president to influence your nation’s vote.” Kirkeland had a small smile as he spoke. “Which I hope we can both agree that Tretridian neutrality on the matter will be more to its interests.”

“I must warn you that if the situation unfolds in a way that is exceedingly difficult to defend within the framework of international law, it may be difficult for Tretrid to stay on the sidelines. I would not like to see this happen. I hope, for both our sakes, that this does not need to be a meaningful consideration. That aside, Tretrid will seek to stay neutral on the matter provided that there is a reasonable justification for whatever actions are taken.”

“Certainly, though I would not worry too much about the matter. Mrs. Todd can be stubborn in negotiations, but I think she will find reason.” Kirkeland took the moment to look at his Witcain wrist watch. “Now, there is other work I have to do. But I do wish your party good luck in their election, and I will say I wish you luck on your retirement.”

“I, too, have duties to which I must attend. I hope you have a nice day, and I wish you luck on the deeds to come.”

And then the line went dead.

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