AsianaBoard

Argent wrote:

As the tribal entourages left the city, Jin-ho congratulates Prince Zixin on a job well done in the conference. "You have performed wonderfully, your highness. Now its my turn again." Jin-ho said slight smirk as he opened the interface on his prosthetic forearm. He quickly entered a few short commands and swiped the screen away.

Outside the city, the tribal entourage steadily makes it way down the highway. The caravans enter the mountain passes, shadowed on either side by the steep mountain slopes, which forces them to severally reduce their speed. Now slowed for safety concerns in the tumultuous mountain highway they are unaware of their stalkers in hot pursuit along the mountain slope.

Along the mountain sides armed men dart in the shadows and behind boulders as the caravan moves slowly in the dangerous area. When their prey is well into the pass the pursuers initiate their ambush. A few flashes followed by ear shattering explosions starts rock slides that tumble at break neck speed towards the highway. The caravan's vehicles try desperately to move forward but are too late to get out of the way of the many hundreds of pound boulders and rock.

The trucks and cars are battered and thrown from the road. Some are totally crushed by the falling rock while others are flipped and battered. When the rocks settle along with the dust cloud, the pass is now filled with rock and debris. Vehicles strewn about with some in literal pieces. After many long eerily silent minutes, the atmosphere is finally broken by the sounds of movement and the moaning of the seriously injured.

The Chinese guard truck, which was acting as rear guard as ordered by Jin-ho and was slowed by the mountainous roads, arrives immediately after the landslide. The guardsmen jump from the truck and run to help in the rescue effort while the driver radios in the accident.

As the Chinese guardsmen start digging and helping survivors, a cry is heard from the mountain slopes. But it is not a cry of pain, but a battle-cry. From the mountain side a group of tribesmen appear brandishing rifles and descend upon the rock slide enveloped highway. When they nearly reach the bottom of the mountainside and are within range enough to maintain height advantage, the tribesmen begin firing on the survivors and the guardsmen.

The guardsmen and those survivors armed enough return fire as they scramble for cover the best that they can. Unfortunately, the black dressed 'tribesmen' armed with high powered sniper rifles find their targets with relative ease and brutal efficiency. The survivors' numbers dwindle swiftly under the hail of bullets.

Despite the severe losses, the survivors are able to organize enough to find adequate cover to hide the most injured and return fire. Their heroic defense against the attackers buys them enough time for the reinforcements from the city to arrive via 3 gunships. The gunships swoop in and lay rotary cannon fire into the hillside against the attackers.

When the dust on the highway settles once again, the bodies of many of the attackers are seen to be strewn across the hillside. Several of the attackers can be seen fleeing in the distance; having been forced to make a hasty retreat during the gunship attack. Two of the gunships set down to let out a retinue of soldiers lead by Jin-ho himself.

Jin-ho surveys the survivors that are now being laid out and treated by medics. He comes upon the leader of the Amiri, Sheikh Saeed, that miraculously survived. Jin-ho kneels beside the severally injured Sheikh Saeed and rests his hand on their shoulder. "Honorable sir, I am relieved that you survived! You have not only my promise, but that of the Prince that we will investigate this horrific attack. I swear."

The injured man struggles to lift his head to address Jin-ho, but manages to say, "Your soldiers defended me...with their lives...I am indebted to you."

"Please rest good sir. Your injuries are grave!" Jin-ho insists as he gently forces the man to lay flat again.

"What of Sheikh Juma? Does he live?" The Sheikh demands to know of the leader of the Fadhli.

Jin-ho raises his head to look at the line of bodies and finds a blood stained sheet pulled over the body of Sheikh Juma. The Sheikh's son kneels above him crying woefully. "I'm sorry to say, but the Sheikh has passed on. Thankfully his son has survived the attack."

Sheikh Saeed sighs defeated, "So much for peace...I had prayed that through Sheikh Juma we would find peace and resolution. I fear that his son may not be so understanding." He said as he ran his uninjured hand over his eyes.

A knowing look flashes across Jin-ho's face before it is replaced again with solemn grimace. "I would not be so sure, sir. Let us find out who committed this heinous act, and I believe that Sheikh Juma's son's rage can then be put toward the offenders and peace made between you both."

"Inshallah." The Sheikh sighs again and relaxes against the ground.

"Rest easy now." Jin-ho pats the man's shoulder before rising to his feet and making for the gunship. As the gunship rises into the air Jin-ho observes a medical evac-helicopter arrive. The gunship turns to head back to Aden and Jin-ho opens the interface on his forearm. Typing commands on the touch 'screen' brings up a video link showing Prince Zixin.

"Your highness. All went exactly as planned." Jin-ho smirks devilishly. "Next step will be made in a few days."

Following the attack on the caravan, it is quickly determined from the remains of the attackers that the perpetrators were yet another tribe; the Yafa'i. The Yafa'i tribe, north of both the Amiri and the Fadhli, is a large confederation of related clans that occupy the ancient Yafa region and its mountains.

The increasing instability in the region as well as the prevalent anti-colonial/Sheng sentiment allowed for radical elements to affect leadership within the confederacy. Leadership found themselves being increasingly advised and pressured to take advantage of the situation to expand territorial control and influence. The break out of fighting between the Amiri and the Fadhli was seen as an opportunity to be capitalized on. An opportunity they took after hiring foreign 'mercenaries' to aid their men in an attack that would leave the warring clans crippled.

In the aftermath of the attack, Yafa'i strong men raided into Amiri and Fadhli territory whose own guards and soldiers were concentrated on the borderlands between each other. With the attackers having a clear numerical advantage and their leadership unresponsive, the Amiri and Fadhli lost considerable ground in the ambush.

A crowd of reporters and onlookers stand at the gate of the Governor's Palace in Aden waiting for a statement from the Prince on the situation in the north. Sheng Zixin appears from the gate in white robes of mourning, closely flanked by his advisers Jin-ho and Zhensu.

The crowd hushes as the Prince approaches and comes to a stop at the top of the stairs to the gate where a group of microphones stand for him to speak into. With a somber sigh, Prince Zixin addresses the crowd.

"Today, we mourn the passing of Sheikh Juma and the other many lives lost at the incident near Al Habilayn. We mourn with ours friends in both the Amiri and the Fadhli for their loses. I am personally outraged by this attack and condemn it on the behalf of not only the Imperial Colonial Governorate of Sheng Arabia, but on the behalf of the whole Confederate Empire of Sheng."

"This unsolicited attack on a peace mission is a dishonor and outrage unmeasured before in this region. The Yafa'i Confederation has sullied their once good name in this brazen and barbaric assault on tradition and good. They sought only their own selfish means and have murdered the innocent and threatened the lives of all that inhabit this region."

Jin-ho then hands an official scroll to Prince Zixin. Unfurling the scroll in his hands, Zixin declares, "As Governor of Aden and as a representative of both the Colonial Governorate and the Confederate Empire, I, Prince Sheng Zixin, order the following: the Yafa'i retreat from Amiri and Fadhli lands, the Yafa'i disarm immediately and submit to an Imperial Inquisition, the organizers and perpetrators of this attack peacefully surrender themselves to Imperial Authorities pending the investigation of the incident, and that the leaders of the Yafa'i disavow the attackers, condemn the attack, and declare their subservience to the authority of the Empire. The Yafa'i are to comply by week end or suffer the consequences." Zixin then turns the scroll to the crowd to see the document written out with his royal seal officiating the document.

He re-rolls the scroll as he says, "With the attack so near to the city and with Royal Guards being attacked and killed without regard, Aden is perceived to be threatened and as such will be put under a state of emergency for the time being until the threat is perceived to have passed. Royal and City Guard presence will be increased and curfew will be made. Our secretary, Zhensu, will answer further questions and provide more details on the state of emergency." Zixin turns to head back through the gate. He is joined by Jin-ho while Zhensu takes the Prince's place in front of the crowd and their barrage of questions.

The Prince hands back the scroll to Jin-ho as they walk together back into the palace. "I was wrong. The media circus was a nice touch after all. It'll enrage the Yafa'i without a doubt. I think your agents should not have too much trouble riling them into full rebellion."

Sheng China wrote:

Following the attack on the caravan, it is quickly determined from the remains of the attackers that the perpetrators were yet another tribe; the Yafa'i. The Yafa'i tribe, north of both the Amiri and the Fadhli, is a large confederation of related clans that occupy the ancient Yafa region and its mountains.

The increasing instability in the region as well as the prevalent anti-colonial/Sheng sentiment allowed for radical elements to affect leadership within the confederacy. Leadership found themselves being increasingly advised and pressured to take advantage of the situation to expand territorial control and influence. The break out of fighting between the Amiri and the Fadhli was seen as an opportunity to be capitalized on. An opportunity they took after hiring foreign 'mercenaries' to aid their men in an attack that would leave the warring clans crippled.

In the aftermath of the attack, Yafa'i strong men raided into Amiri and Fadhli territory whose own guards and soldiers were concentrated on the borderlands between each other. With the attackers having a clear numerical advantage and their leadership unresponsive, the Amiri and Fadhli lost considerable ground in the ambush.

A crowd of reporters and onlookers stand at the gate of the Governor's Palace in Aden waiting for a statement from the Prince on the situation in the north. Sheng Zixin appears from the gate in white robes of mourning, closely flanked by his advisers Jin-ho and Zhensu.

The crowd hushes as the Prince approaches and comes to a stop at the top of the stairs to the gate where a group of microphones stand for him to speak into. With a somber sigh, Prince Zixin addresses the crowd.

"Today, we mourn the passing of Sheikh Juma and the other many lives lost at the incident near Al Habilayn. We mourn with ours friends in both the Amiri and the Fadhli for their loses. I am personally outraged by this attack and condemn it on the behalf of not only the Imperial Colonial Governorate of Sheng Arabia, but on the behalf of the whole Confederate Empire of Sheng."

"This unsolicited attack on a peace mission is a dishonor and outrage unmeasured before in this region. The Yafa'i Confederation has sullied their once good name in this brazen and barbaric assault on tradition and good. They sought only their own selfish means and have murdered the innocent and threatened the lives of all that inhabit this region."

Jin-ho then hands an official scroll to Prince Zixin. Unfurling the scroll in his hands, Zixin declares, "As Governor of Aden and as a representative of both the Colonial Governorate and the Confederate Empire, I, Prince Sheng Zixin, order the following: the Yafa'i retreat from Amiri and Fadhli lands, the Yafa'i disarm immediately and submit to an Imperial Inquisition, the organizers and perpetrators of this attack peacefully surrender themselves to Imperial Authorities pending the investigation of the incident, and that the leaders of the Yafa'i disavow the attackers, condemn the attack, and declare their subservience to the authority of the Empire. The Yafa'i are to comply by week end or suffer the consequences." Zixin then turns the scroll to the crowd to see the document written out with his royal seal officiating the document.

He re-rolls the scroll as he says, "With the attack so near to the city and with Royal Guards being attacked and killed without regard, Aden is perceived to be threatened and as such will be put under a state of emergency for the time being until the threat is perceived to have passed. Royal and City Guard presence will be increased and curfew will be made. Our secretary, Zhensu, will answer further questions and provide more details on the state of emergency." Zixin turns to head back through the gate. He is joined by Jin-ho while Zhensu takes the Prince's place in front of the crowd and their barrage of questions.

The Prince hands back the scroll to Jin-ho as they walk together back into the palace. "I was wrong. The media circus was a nice touch after all. It'll enrage the Yafa'i without a doubt. I think your agents should not have too much trouble riling them into full rebellion."

(just to clear up for anyone that is confused, I will be playn some of the more antagonistic tribes in the conflicts here along with bein Jin-ho. So i post for the Yafa'i atm)

The hawkish elements that have seized control of the Yafa'i confederacy do indeed become further enraged following the statements from Prince Sheng Zixin in Aden. Their number swell and they gain greater command over the council that rules the Yafa'i confederacy. The young and radicalized men are furious over what they perceive as the failing of their fathers' and fathers' fathers for the fall of Yemen to the Sheng in their colonial expansion. The leader of the hawkish group is the recently crowned Sheikh Ahmad ibn Ali.

Sheikh Ahmad addresses his fellow Yafa'i kinsmen and close allies after being brought to power over the confederacy on a campaign of restoring glory and dignity of the Yafa'i and promises to directly confront the Sheng empire. The manner of confrontation remained ambiguous during his campaign.

"The infidel mock us! Their pompous princeling that whores himself in his corrupt and salacious den in Aden and enslaves our fellow Yemeni brethren to further the material hunger and power lust of their shayatin birthed Empress has the audacity to besmirch our honor. We the followers of truth through Alah. Good and moralistic men, women, and children who are made to starve so that the Imperialist race may get fat."

"It is a crime against Yemen. It is a crime against justice. It is a crime against Alah. We cannot and will not stand to take these insults any longer from foreign oppressors that come only to rape and pillage our lands of our resources and labor."

"We call on our allies throughout Occupied Arabia! Join us in protest against the evil leeching of our people. We can not be made to suffer this way in our own lands. We refuse to suffer the insults that they spew. Rise with us."

The gathered Yafa'i extremists in the council cheered loudly in response to the declaration of Sheikh Ahmad ibn Ali. As they cheered the moderates looked on worriedly but dared not respond with their own objections.

The Yafa'i call-to-arms echoes out across Sheng Arabia. The movement flames the embers of anti-Sheng sentiment hidden away in the basements and backrooms across the peninsula away from the watchful eye of the Imperial authorities. Although it fans the embers, very few are quick to respond to the call to take on the all powerful empire. For now the Yafa'i stand alone. They mobilize their assets, but stay within their own borders and the areas that they occupy.

Although they remain in their own borders, the Yafa'i do commit to their first action in protest against the Sheng. The lucrative oil fields in the Marib basin lay within the boundaries of the Yafa'i area of control. The Yafa'i surround Marib and close off the flow of oil out of the region for processing in Sana'a as well as shutting down the major highways running through their territories.

The 20 members of the council of 13 have voted in favour of sending out a diplomat to Sheng China to formalize a treaty. They have also discussed about other nation but are not sure how to proceed about it. They have decided to send out a message to each nation in Asiana asking if they want to formalize relations.

The military reforms are coming along nicely with new equipment arriving and training methods being developed. Also the military has been largely streamlined as before is was highly disorganized due the the nature of the nation prior to it becoming a formal nation.

Argent wrote:

snipping because i also got a little out of hand XD excuse for the large post

Prince Zixin sits at his assigned place at the round table that currently sits in the audience hall of the Sheng Arabia Governor General's estate. As he observes the room the Prince rests his chin on his fist which is supported by his arm that leans against the arm of his chair. The hall is not very large, but its ornately carved stone pillars and various wall decorations of weapons and tapestries give it the desired effect. He watches quietly as the other five men sat at the table either speak with each or bicker all at once in a great ruckus. These are the colonial rulers of Sheng Arabia. Each man rules over the largest cities in Sheng Arabia and govern the attached governorates that cover large segments of Sheng Arabia. The council is split between 3 installed Chinese rulers and three native Arabic rulers. The Governor General, Xiong Da of Muscat, sits as head of the council.

Currently the rulers bicker among themselves with no one really listening to anyone; save for Zixin who sits and watches observantly just as instructed by Jin-ho. The ruckus is only broken up by Xiong Da slamming his fist against the desk in his office.

"Order!" The large man bellows loudly. The group ceases their squabbling and return their attention to Xiong Da. "That's better." He declares plopping himself back down his chair. "Now, I cannot waste time here. I have an army prepared to move at any call from the Imperial Court. Let's make this quick."

The first to bark up their opinion is none other than Tang Kesan, the governor of Sana'a which is the provincial capital of Yemen. A small four eyed rat faced man who has built himself on the backs of others. Zixin despised him the most on this council. A low born opportunist that has forgotten his origins and now lords himself oppressively over his people and takes any chance to undermine others in his favor. "Governor General Xiong, this whole situation is ridiculous. Prince Zixin spoke publicly and used his authority without the consent of this council to make a provocative declaration. All he was supposed to do was table a peace meeting. Not start a rebellion. The lose of the oil field and the cause of this conflict is on him." The whining bureaucrat insisted fervently.

The group of men then turned their attention to Zixin. "Well, your highness, what do you have to say. You have been quiet." The Governor General asked as he relaxed back into his chair and pulled his hand along his shiny bald head.

Zixin took in a breathe and sat himself tall and straight, exuding royal grace and charm, "Yes, I did indeed commit that offense. I spoke without the consent of this council. And my speech incensed the Yafa'i and their allies. For that reason they have said what they have said and attacked the oil fields."

"See! He admits it. I should be relieved of this meeting. I approve of any punishment that you may see fitting." Tang Kesan interrupted with a proud smile and prepared to get up.

"Shut up and sit, Kesan, and let him finish. You're not going anywhere yet." The Governor General grumbled which deflated Kesan. "Continue, your highness."

Zixin bowed his head graciously, "Thank you, Governor General. As I was saying, my words did indeed result in this unfortunate outcome. However, I might remind those on this council, and especially Lord Tang, that it is our responsibility to protect the people who we rule over on the behalf of the Empire and my dear aunt, the Grand Empress. It is our solemn duty to maintain law and order. To deliver justice where injustice has been committed." Zixin looks around the room at the men at the table looking for acknowledgment of his statement. The gathered men nodded their heads in agreement.

With their agreement to his stated fact, Zixin continued, "The Yafa'i have acted out of line. They assaulted not only the caravans of the Shiekhs of Amiri and Fadhli, whom I brought peace between, but the Yafa'i killed Shiekh Juma of the Fadhli. They also had the audacity to attack my royal guardsmen. An insult to not only myself, but to the Imperial Dynasty. As we all know, to attack the dynasty is to attack the Grand Empress. To attack the Grand Empress is to attack the whole Empire."

The group vigorously agreed with the Prince, with the Governor General giving a gruff and enthusiastic, "Absolutely!" which was seconded by Tang Kesan as he inspected his glasses to clean them with a cloth.

"I swiftly responded in kind as was fitting for a faction who insulted our empire, our dynasty, and our Grand Empress." Zixin insisted sternly before looking over to Tang Kesan, "Or would the good gentleman of Sana'a had preferred to allow their slanderous actions to go without reproach and without punishment for sake of maintaining the flow of oil?" Zixin accused while maintaining the grace of his princely position.

Tang Kesan sputtered, dropping his glasses, in nervous panic. "No! Not at all! They are villains and deserve nothing better than to have the hides whipped clean from their bones." Repositioning his glasses to their rightful place, Kesan swallowed hard as he felt his throat grow dry. "What I merely insisted was that it should have been a joint condemnation. With approved wording. Perhaps with wording that would have allowed us an avenue to negotiate with them and avoid the needless destruction of property...and lives of course. After all, the situation in the area has been tumultuous at best. It only needed a spark or wrong word to blow the powder keg." He nodded agreeing with himself as spoke.

"That is true." Sheikh Maktoum the elderly ruler of Dubai spoke up as he adjusted his own amber tinted glasses. "The situation has not been peaceable in the Yemeni region for some time. All it needed was a spark to set the flame." The group of men mumbled in agreement with Sheikh Maktoum which allowed Kesan a momentary smile in confidence.

"The honorable Sheikh of Dubai is correct. The region has been unstable for some time now." The Prince interjected. "But why?"

"They are unruly tribesmen that resent our wealth and power." Tang Kesan quickly answered with a pompous chuckle to the room looking to have others join him. When no one joined him, the laugh died in his throat as he let out a nervous cough.

"Then why have they not been brought into order?" Prince Zixin quickly shot back. "Many of these tribes in question are in fact under your jurisdiction as governor of Sana'a. In fact, the Yafa'i are under your jurisdiction and you seemed to have failed to keep them at heel in the first place. They of course being the ones to commit the brazen ambush on the caravan in my territory."

Tang Kesan's eyes grew wide with the Prince's accusation. "I..I...I did not think that coming down heavy handed was prudent for the situation."

"And the siege of the Marib Basin where the oil fields are? Why were they not properly garrisoned and are now surrounded? And why have you yet to break the siege? Governor?" Zixin pointedly interrogated the Sana'a Governor.

"Ah, well that...that is because." Kesan began with a sputter as a sheen of sweat shined along his temples. "It was...we were not expecting an attack...and so..."

Zixin abruptly cuts in with a bang on his hand on the table, "Is it because you have dramatically cut your garrison so as to reduce the budget costs to maintain it and pocket the difference? Thus defrauding the Imperial Government and the Grand Empress, as well as threatening the regions stability!" He accused stabbing his finger out at Kesan's.

The assembled rulers gasped at the accusation. Their shocked expressions quickly gave way to furrowed brows and deep frowns as they looked at the accused governor.

"No! Never!" Kesan cried out. Seeing the still frowning faces Kesan turned his attention back to Zixin. Stabbing out his own finger to wave at Zixin, "How dare you lobby these baseless accusations against me! I have been a loyal servant to the Empire my whole life! I have done nothing but good for Sana'a in my many years as its governor!"

"Silence, Tang Kesan!" The Governor General ordered in a bellow. "Do you have evidence to back up this accusation, Prince Zixin?!" Xiong Da demanded loudly.

Opening a panel in the table reveals a small key board and disc slot. Zixin types in a few short commands on the keyboard and inserts the disc that he retrieves from the inside breast of his silk robe. It instantly uploads several images and documents to a screen that reveals itself at the center of the table as it powers on.

"I have been investigating the rapid destabilization of the region and documented my findings." The Prince answered. "I discovered that the Governor of Sana'a has not only nearly eliminated the governorate's garrison, save for the immediate guards of the city and his palace, but that he has also devastatingly reduced the aid and welfare programs for the people of his territory and especially those of the countryside tribal groups and clans. Despite all this, Governor Kesan's budget report to the Governor General and to the Imperial Court shows him in the red and in need of additional funds for the garrison and aid to the locals." The scowls of the assembled rulers only further deepen as Zixin reveals more and more of Kesan's scheming. Governor General Xiong's eyes blaze with rage as his face turns red.

The Prince presses on as Tang Kesan's face turns white as a sheet, "The tribal territories have destabilized because the presence of the Empire in the region has all but disappeared except for the oil fields. The cut off of aid has reduced food and water security throughout all of Northern Yemen. If you want someone to blame for the unrest in Arabia, you can squarely lay it at the feet of Tang Kesan who has stolen from the people and the Empire to line his own pockets!"

"Ya Kalb! Yikhrib Baytak!" Sheikh Khalifa, the ruler of Abu Dhabi, swore in his native Arabic as he slammed his hands against the table and rises to his feet. "You are lower than dogs and swine!" He continues to swear at Kesan.

Sheikh Haitham of Salalah cries out as he stands to his own feet, "Governor General, seize that villain!"

"Guards! Seize Tang Kesan!" The Governor General roars throwing his chair back as he stands.

On Xiong Da's order several guards standing just outside the doors to the audience hall rush in with their sidearms in hand. Xiong Da again orders as they enter, "Seize Governor Tang!" They rush to surround the man in question who cowers in his chair as the imposing armored guardsmen approach him.

"No!" Kesan cries out as two of the guards seize him by either arm. "No! You don't understand! Let me explain! It's all a misunderstanding!" He continues to cry and struggle pathetically against the overwhelming strength of the guards that drag him from his chair and take him from the room kicking.

As Kesan's cries faded out of the room and down the hall, Xiong Da approached the Prince who looked up at the imposingly large man. "We will of course need to review all of this evidence and an official investigation will have to be launched, but..." Xiong Da places his closed fist into his other open palm and bows to the Prince Zixin, "We are greatful that you brought this injustice to light."

Not expecting such a salute from the Governor General of Sheng Arabia, Zixin was taken aback. Before he could respond Zixin watched as the three Sheikhs rested their hands over the hearts and bowed their heads to him. Folding his hands together, he bows to the room, "You honor me with your thanks. But I am unworthy of praise, for I am but the servant to the Empire and doing my duty."

"Accept praise when it is offered, your highness. In the world today it seldom comes." Sheikh Maktoum states as he rounds the table to stand before the Prince and offers his right hand; which Zixin takes and gently shakes. "Maashallah." The Shiekh says in praise which is then followed by the other two Sheikhs that speak the same praise.

"Now then." Xiong Da announces, "Let us adjourn here for today and we will pick up next time. I have many things which must be attended to. I am sure you all have your own agendas to look after." He says to end the meeting. The Sheikhs shake hands with both Governor General Xiong Da and Prince Zixin before exiting the room together speaking among themselves.

As Zixin prepares to leave, Xiong Da steps ahead of him to stop him. "Keep your line of communications open, your highness. I may call upon you and impose some new responsibilities. I believe the Imperial Court will be impressed to hear of all this." He states with confident nod and slight smirk. He then about faces and exits the room himself.

Safely onboard his jet at the Muscat airport, Zixin seats himself in the lavish cabin as the plane prepares for take off to return him to Aden. Letting out a sigh and resting his eyes for a moment he opens them to find Jin-ho now sitting across from him.

Zixin chuckles with a smile to his cohort, "I think that went swimmingly, don't you? Your agents' reconnaissance work was superb. Even the parts that they took some artistic license too."

Ambassador Dmitry Vadinkov has been chosen by the council to be sent to Sheng China to strengthen ties. Which at this point are still largely unofficial.

One of the biggest changes to the military the new reforms have done is the massively expanded cyberwarfare division and drone divisions.

This is done mostly to compensate for the small military relative to everyone else due to sparsity of the population.

A large group of Europans have been granted refuge in Trans-Amur. They have settled down and built a large underground mining town. (This is more of just a homage to my previous nation.)

Trans-amur wrote:

Ambassador Dmitry Vadinkov has been chosen by the council to be sent to Sheng China to strengthen ties. Which at this point are still largely unofficial.

One of the biggest changes to the military the new reforms have done is the massively expanded cyberwarfare division and drone divisions.

This is done mostly to compensate for the small military relative to everyone else due to sparsity of the population.

A large group of Europans have been granted refuge in Trans-Amur. They have settled down and built a large underground mining town. (This is more of just a homage to my previous nation.)

The Imperial Court is elated to receive the Ambassador of Trans-Amur to establish official relations with the Empire. As a long standing friend to the Sheng Empire, Trans-Amur is a welcomed addition to the world stage.

Ambassador Dmitry Vadinkov is invited to travel to Beiping(Beijing) to meet with Grand Prince Wei and Imperial Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cao Shicai, for a conference on the establishment of official relations.

In the meantime, Beiping is being decorated for the occasion with flags of both the Empire and Trans-Amur. A grand welcoming festival is prepared with music, parades, performers, and vendors throughout the streets and squares. It is being taken as a chance to put Beiping on show after years of rebuilding the former metropolis since the city's liberation from the now defunct Choson Empire.

Apologies - I'm culling embassies so as to make the paper round easier. Add us to your dossier if you'd like to keep up with what's going on. Thanks for your custom!

The somber oranges and reds of the sunset fell through the window pane of Earl Darrel Macey's study window, cigar smoke from a Cuban cigar creating wisps of smoke that linger in the air. His estate had just been the host of the ever important annual meeting of Fourth Tribe of Polaris leaders, and though it was scheduled at the same time every year, the timing couldn't be any better considering the state of the Empire of late. His job as Head of Economic Actions on behalf of the central government had been stretched thin, well, stretched thin for his subordinates, but his hand DID hurt from signing so many authorizations from the military for additional emergency funding. The military bureaucrats were always grateful when they were well supplied with capital.

Macey snubbed his cigar into the nearby ashtray, adjusting his suit as he readied his phone, not his official phone though, the one that the government had no idea about. Ever addicted, Macey has subconsciously put a new cigerette into his mouth as he dialed his contact in the Royal Imperial Guard. As the ringtone went on, he looked down at the gumshoe notepad he had been writing on during the meetings with the Fourth Tribe Aristocracy, red bold letters writting out "Prepare for the Worst, Use your Contact" sighing deeply as he'd been pushed into a corner in a short timespan. He was all for the plan, he just didn't want to deal with all the bullshit that would be uncanned quite yet, can you blame a man?

The tone eventually beeped, a irritated authoritative figure on the other line drumming up with a solid, "Who in Lucifer's red ass is this? If this is the Ablyan scam center again I swear tha-"

Macey's smooth and sultry tone, only made better by the smoking (somehow) piped up in a docile and calming manner, "Ah ah ah dear.. it's a friend of the Morning Star or a late how-do-you-do... I need a favor and I need it now.. you can.. imagine why.." he spoke with aristocratic charm and a layer of nicotine charisma, as if you could hear the decadence in his voice.

The once boisterous and rabid Royal Imperial Officer hushed quickly, though their voice still had a bite within it as it was long after operating hours, "Let me guess.. you need that letter..."

"Mhmm... and then you are off the hook for awhile dear... I need to establish some.. connections with that lovely Kingdom of Florentinz... never been actually, beautiful place I hear..." his tone was jovially and playful in the last part, as if they were having a absolutely normal conversation.

"And what should I ask for in such a letter..." the now merely tired Royal Guard huffed with a latent shame to their future actions.

"Tell them.. we are going to need a.. 'helping hand' in these uncertain times soon.." Macey flicked his cigarettes into the trash bin next to him as he let out a light but starkly ambivalent chuckle to his partner in crime.

-------------------------------------------------

A letter is sent to the Royal Assembly of Florentinz on behalf of the Head of Economic Actions, Earl Darrel Macey, inquiring for 'aid in bringing balance to Polaris' and further private communications with the highest available representative. The letter has all of the proper diplomatic stamps and sigils, though no record of its existence would exist within Polaris after it was sent off.

Sheng China wrote:

snippin this long a** thing

"Swimmingly." Jin-ho chuckles in reply, raising his glass of bourbon to toast to the prince. He draws the glass back to his lips and takes a long sip of the cool liquor; following it with a satisfied sigh of the smooth liquor warmly trailing down his throat.

Setting the glass down next to him, Jin-ho crosses his leg over the other showing off his high heeled boots. "The exposure of Kesan and his removal will have a ripple affect across the peninsula and drum up outrage in favor of the rebel sentiment." He states as he folds his hands in his lap with a smile stretching across his lips. "Your time is coming." Jin-ho says with a pleased smile.

As Jin-ho predicts, the fall of Tang Kesan of Sana'a for his corruption and abuses to the local populations of his governorate reverberates throughout the territories of Sheng Arabia. Large protests and boycotts break out in Sana'a and its governorate territory with protestors demanding justice and retribution for Kesan's crimes. A small but noticed group even fly anti-Sheng banners. Police and city guard keep close watch of the situation to avoid property damage and assaults, but allow the people to protest without much interference for concern of oppressing and thus angering the locals. Other cities in Sheng Arabia also become plagued by boycotts and protest in solidarity with the people of Sana'a's quest for justice and anti-corruption probing. The cities of Jazan, Al Mukala and Al Hudaydah saw significant protests like Sana'a. Even Muscat, administrative capital of the Imperial Colonial Governorate of Sheng Arabia, saw protesting outside the Governor General's estate.

The Yafa'i, those responsible for the outbreak of violence north of Aden, seize upon the news to immediately call for solidarity and unity in protest against the wider Sheng colonial system.

Sheikh Ahmad, leader of the Yafa'i Confederation, addresses his fellow Arabs of Sheng Arabia and the rest of the Arab Muslim world:

"To my brothers across the Arab and Islamic nation, we hear your cries, we hear your outrage, and we sympathize and share in your pain. Tang Kesan, despot of Sana'a, is but one prime example of the corruption and sin of the Sheng Empire's occupation of our holy peninsula. Tang Kesan's abuse of our people is felt throughout the peninsula by the Sheng Empire's other imposed despots and favored traitors of our people."

"We have suffered under the yolk of Sheng slavery for too long. We have suffered as they leech off our lands for our wealth while the innocent suffer. Let us stand together against this oppression. Fight against their tyranny. Fight in the defense of Allah. Throw off their shackles and stand tall in the name of Allah! Join us and denounce the Empire's torture and rape of our people!"

In the aftermath of the broadcast, the protests and boycotts in the cities of Sheng Arabia grew more aggressive and violent. Protestors began burning the Imperial banner and effigies of Sheng leaders and complicit Arab rulers such as the Sheikhs of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. They carried black banners with script from the Quran denouncing the 'evils' of Sheng. Police and city guard were forced to up their activities to contain the protests with several arrests taking place.

The numbers joining the Yafa'i grew rapidly after the broadcast as men and women crossed the territories into Yafa'i lands. Neighboring tribes began joining the call for protest against the Sheng colonial administration. Much of the interior sparsely populated territories of Yemen and even some of Oman joined with the Yafa'i's movement; now calling themselves the Arab Front for Justice. Most concerning is the tribes that control Zaranik and Hashid districts, districts that are much more populated and closer to the coast, have aligned themselves to the Arab Front of Justice.

The level of organization that the Arab Front for Justice is operating with is unprecedented for rebel groups of the past; posing a troubling concern in dealing with the group. The AFJ's black market contacts have also secured them a steady supply of weapons to arm their growing numbers.

Argent wrote:

"Swimmingly." Jin-ho chuckles in reply, raising his glass of bourbon to toast to the prince. He draws the glass back to his lips and takes a long sip of the cool liquor; following it with a satisfied sigh of the smooth liquor warmly trailing down his throat.

Setting the glass down next to him, Jin-ho crosses his leg over the other showing off his high heeled boots. "The exposure of Kesan and his removal will have a ripple affect across the peninsula and drum up outrage in favor of the rebel sentiment." He states as he folds his hands in his lap with a smile stretching across his lips. "Your time is coming." Jin-ho says with a pleased smile.

As Jin-ho predicts, the fall of Tang Kesan of Sana'a for his corruption and abuses to the local populations of his governorate reverberates throughout the territories of Sheng Arabia. Large protests and boycotts break out in Sana'a and its governorate territory with protestors demanding justice and retribution for Kesan's crimes. A small but noticed group even fly anti-Sheng banners. Police and city guard keep close watch of the situation to avoid property damage and assaults, but allow the people to protest without much interference for concern of oppressing and thus angering the locals. Other cities in Sheng Arabia also become plagued by boycotts and protest in solidarity with the people of Sana'a's quest for justice and anti-corruption probing. The cities of Jazan, Al Mukala and Al Hudaydah saw significant protests like Sana'a. Even Muscat, administrative capital of the Imperial Colonial Governorate of Sheng Arabia, saw protesting outside the Governor General's estate.

The Yafa'i, those responsible for the outbreak of violence north of Aden, seize upon the news to immediately call for solidarity and unity in protest against the wider Sheng colonial system.

Sheikh Ahmad, leader of the Yafa'i Confederation, addresses his fellow Arabs of Sheng Arabia and the rest of the Arab Muslim world:

"To my brothers across the Arab and Islamic nation, we hear your cries, we hear your outrage, and we sympathize and share in your pain. Tang Kesan, despot of Sana'a, is but one prime example of the corruption and sin of the Sheng Empire's occupation of our holy peninsula. Tang Kesan's abuse of our people is felt throughout the peninsula by the Sheng Empire's other imposed despots and favored traitors of our people."

"We have suffered under the yolk of Sheng slavery for too long. We have suffered as they leech off our lands for our wealth while the innocent suffer. Let us stand together against this oppression. Fight against their tyranny. Fight in the defense of Allah. Throw off their shackles and stand tall in the name of Allah! Join us and denounce the Empire's torture and rape of our people!"

In the aftermath of the broadcast, the protests and boycotts in the cities of Sheng Arabia grew more aggressive and violent. Protestors began burning the Imperial banner and effigies of Sheng leaders and complicit Arab rulers such as the Sheikhs of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. They carried black banners with script from the Quran denouncing the 'evils' of Sheng. Police and city guard were forced to up their activities to contain the protests with several arrests taking place.

The numbers joining the Yafa'i grew rapidly after the broadcast as men and women crossed the territories into Yafa'i lands. Neighboring tribes began joining the call for protest against the Sheng colonial administration. Much of the interior sparsely populated territories of Yemen and even some of Oman joined with the Yafa'i's movement; now calling themselves the Arab Front for Justice. Most concerning is the tribes that control Zaranik and Hashid districts, districts that are much more populated and closer to the coast, have aligned themselves to the Arab Front of Justice.

The level of organization that the Arab Front for Justice is operating with is unprecedented for rebel groups of the past; posing a troubling concern in dealing with the group. The AFJ's black market contacts have also secured them a steady supply of weapons to arm their growing numbers.

In the desperate attempt to pre-emptively flee from the forming battle lines that were evolving between the pro-Imperial and rebel territories, civilians begin flocking from their towns and villages for safety. The majority of the fleeing civilians are moving deeper into pro-Imperial held territory believing in either the government's more equipped ability to protect them from violence or in the inevitability of the Empire's victory over the upstarts. Most civilians are fleeing to the Imperial stronghold cities of Sana'a, Taizz, and Aden.

In Aden, Prince Sheng Zixin opens the gates widely to the refugees. He orders the refugees to be fed and housed where ever available throughout the city including; hotels, hostels, temples, mosques, and civic centers. All of which he offers to personally pay for himself on the behalf of the refugees.

The residents of the city in response to the Prince's generosity responds in kind with an out pouring of support for the refugees in providing food, shelter, and clothing. An act of charity and generosity that catches many by surprise as the city, under Sheng Zixin, has become wealthy high society metropolis getaway of resorts, casinos, fashion, and other luxury-based industries.

Aden becomes such a preferred location to flee to for the refugees, that camps have to be established outside the city walls as the capacity in the city swiftly fills up. This recognition is not without consequences however.

The mass movement of people to Aden, and other Imperial stronghold cities, stirs the ire of the Arab Front for Justice who have previously condemned Prince Zixin and the city for their sinful lifestyles and representation of the evils of the Sheng Empire's colonial rule over southern Arabia. The highways along which the refugees flee on toward Aden and other Imperial strongholds become targets for the AFJ to maliciously harass and blockade; condemning their fellow Yemenis for fleeing to the Empire.

In retaliation for the AFJ's attacks on the highways and threatening the refugees, Sheng Zixin is given permission from the Governor General, Xiong Da, to mobilize his personal Imperial forces to safeguard the highways and refugees from AFJ attack. The Governor General even grants Prince Zixin permission to recruit a local militia army with which to provide support in stabilizing the area.

Prince Zixin with the support of his trusted advisers Jin-ho and Zhensu, are quick to recruit and begin the rigorous training of this new army. Their largest recruiting pool comes from the very refugees that Sheng Zixin has been tasked with protecting with this new army. The young men and women, appreciative of the Prince's open armed acceptance of their families in their time of need, willingly volunteer to become part of the Prince's militia army to bring peace to their region. Recruitment into this new army is a seldom had opportunity to join the Imperial forces which is not often afforded to locals within the colonial territories or member states of the Confederate Empire. Locals are most often used for guardsmen at best. A chance to join an Imperial militia may lead to the opportunity to join the Imperial forces proper and the career paths included with it.

As the militia is being trained, two of the Prince's five Imperial battalions march out of the city and move into the countryside to secure the highway and protect the civilian caravans fleeing from the regions.

Feniks Nadezhdy, Shesterniserdtse, Eastern Europe

The midnight sky was glittered with twinkling stars above, the smell of fall rich through the air, autumn leaves littered the concrete sidewalks as rays of lights glowed out from the rather stern looking parliament building’s stone structure. Filing the fine polished wooden benches, row to row nearly packed to the brim was finely dressed officials. A sea of military dress uniforms representing Sagan Nezrusev one of the prime candidates for the election night, what seemed like a forest of dark green tunics seemed to span on and on endlessly. On the other side of the rather large and lavish looking assembly hall appeared to be a pool of black and grey suits representing Alexi Chezinask, a group that admittedly paled in comparison to the former mentioned. Adjusting his tie frantically, Alexi’s thoughts were flying at what felt like light speed, glancing over at the overwhelming gang that sat across the single walkway covered with a red velvet carpet to only receive glares as sharp as razor blades and cold as ice gave him no help but to make his frantic nearly panicked state any better. A friendly, wrinkled and aged hand placed softly on his shoulder causing Alexi to jump, shooting his gaze over in the direction of his hand recognizing his political aid and advisor, Dmitri Tstalx.

“Brother, you look as if you’re about to be executed! Relax! You should be excited! Not too long ago we believed we wouldn’t get past that greed filled merchant in votes but look at us now! We have an actual chance of winning this! All we must do is sit here and hope the Federal Courts count the vote higher in our name than the lich sitting across from us. Here, take this.” Dmitri would say in a hushed comforting tone, taking a moment to brush some fuzz off of Alexi’s shoulder before reaching into his own inner jacket pocket, taking out a small silver tin container, removing the top and taking out a cigarette from inside offering it to Alexi.

“I apologize my dear friend but you’re right, we went from speaking in small lecture halls at liberal art schools and now we’re in the house of the Federal Courts. I can’t say I exactly expected to surpass caste system communists, money hungry borderline anarcho-capitalists and now I’m contending against a group one symbol away from being a new reich surrounded with cyrillic. I honestly didn’t expect to get this far Dmitri.” Alexi would confide in his friend speaking in the same hushed tone, reaching forward and grabbing one of the tightly packed cigarettes, pinching it between his lips, holding the end of it over the newly lit flame flickering out from the fresh struck match Dmitri held out. Taking a deep drag off of the smoke, he cocked an eyebrow as the Federal Judges would slowly enter the chamber taking their seats at the head of the chamber.

“Greetings everyone, the first federal court of Shesterniserdtse is now called into session. Tonight we’ve gathered here to witness the election of the new nation’s prime minister. Both parties gathered here today, if and when elected, have already submitted their own organization of the government which we will live under. The elected head of the S.N.P otherwise known as the Slavic National Party has proposed a totalitarian dictatorship that pushes to further the slavic race through military expansion and might. The elected head of the C.D.S otherwise known as the Civil Democracy Society has proposed a democracy that focuses on strengthening the nation through forigen relations, economic trade and placing an emphasis on scientific research and development. As we finish the counting of the votes please remember that no matter what we are bound together as a slavic people and we will respect those to gain office as prime minister of our newly founded nation.” The rather stern and official voice of Head Judge Zoya Zanianyaza would announce almost as a decree grabbing the attention of even the most rather seemingly hardcore members of the S.N.P.

“See Alexi! Those idiots can’t even label their government without saying it’s a dictatorship! No one wants one of those after living under the Union! I’ll start getting the brandy ready hahaha!” Dmitri would attempt once more in comforting words, nudging Alexi a little and laughing towards the end of his sentence. Alexi chuckled light heartedly as he pulled a drag off of his cigarette. His attention nearly snapping back towards the figurehead of the Court as she cleared her throat, clutching a piece of paper in her hands. She’d take a moment to break the wax stamp seal and unfold it, starting to read out the message.

“In the eyes of the Federal Courts of Shesterniserdtse we hereby announce the winner of the prime minister elections. Announcing first popular vote followed by district votes. C.D.S with 427,170 votes. S.N.P with 425,370. C.D.S wins the popular vote. C.D.S with 3 Federal District votes. S.N.P with 2 Federal District votes. Congratulations to now Prime Minister Alexi Chezinask.” Judge Zoya would start, her voice echoing out across the assembly so quiet one could hear a pin drop. The room remaining silent as her gravel would smack against the hammer slab officially finalizing the decree. The entire court sat in silence, everyone sat in disbelief for a few moments.

“Vot Der'mo.” Alexi and Dmitri would comically say in unison in a tone of disbelief. Alexi’s cigarette had fell out of his hand and on to the snow white marble floor, the ash splashing onto the ground as Dmitri would start frantically laughing in shock almost hysterically.

“We did it!” Dmitri would shout standing up and throwing his arms straight up into the air, a roaring applause and cheers would erupt from the C.D.S side followed by a rather stern soft applause from the S.N.P side of the court. Members of Alexi’s party nearly jumping up, hugging one another in joy. The woodland of OD green slowly getting up and quietly leaving the court complex. Alexi simply sat there in disbelief like a man who was just told he had won the lottery, his mind raced with all the possibilities and chances he has to change the nation for the better but as well as all the stress that may come with such a task. Alexi felt the hands of his aid wrap around him and embrace him as the laughs, hoorahs and screams of excitement and celebration filled the Courtroom. “We did it brother! Years of campaigning and diplomatic talks across five different nations to get them to agree to unite under one banner and we’re the ones to make it a democracy! We’re gonna be on the world stage! With our hard work the people of the slavic states can leave behind the dreaded past of the Soviet Union and jump forward into a new bright future that isn't filled with bloodshed and meaningless executions! It will be hard comrade but our will must not falter. Come now, we must go celebrate for we start tomorrow, we have a lot of work ahead of us.”

Sheng China wrote:

Im so sorry this is so late!

The Arab Front for Justice's ranks have swelled significantly sense the fall of the governor of Sana'a in the corruption probe launched by Sheng Zixin. Much like the Prince in Aden, the AFJ works tirelessly day and night to train its volunteers in their own militia. Their supply lines from out of the country is secured by their control of the border region which freely allows the flow of decent weapons and munitions into their armories.

Despite the swelling numbers and the early victories, the mass exodus of their fellow Yemenis from their territories and especially those territories near the forming border lines has shaken the already fragile moral of their members. If the people did not stand with them then what did they stand for? What do they do?

The question perplexed the appointed leader of the AFJ and the leading figure of the protest against the Sheng, Sheikh Ahmad. He watched over the governing council of their movement has they bickered and argued among themselves as they debated the same question as the Sheikh.

As he sat watching the room and silently contemplating their situation and stroking his short dark beard, two figures approached, flanking the Sheikh. One, a man wearing a black thawb, the traditional floor length robe worn by men in Arab world. And the other, a woman dressed in a black traditional niqab. Both have their faces covered except for their eyes. When Sheikh Ahmad notices and recognizes the two, he offers his hand to the man with a gentle shake and receives the woman with a nod and hand over the heart.

"As-salaam ‘alykum." The Sheikh finally speaks to them.

"Wa ‘alaykum as-salaam." They both quietly return.

From inside the deep pocket of the man's thawb, he produces a green and gold box. "Dates, your highness. For you and your family." He presents the box to the sheikh from his left hand and his right over his heart.

The Sheikh bows his head and receives the gift with bow of his head. He looks at the box and delicately opens it to reveal the dates inside. Seeing the golden lettering on the inside of the lid he finds the word Ajwa glittering. "Ajwa dates!" The Sheikh softly exclaims.

The woman nods her head, "The holiest of fruits, my lord. As Allah's Messenger, Sallallaahu Álayhi Wasallam, said 'If somebody takes seven Ajwa dates in the morning, neither magic nor poison will hurt him that day.' A treat and a necessity." She insists with the man nodding his head vigorously.

With a questioning look, the Sheikh was about to say something when the man interrupts, "For a man in the position that you hold, looking after your health and wellbeing is an absolute must. We, your friends and advisers, only wish for you to live long and healthily so that your holy mission may be fought and won."

The Sheikh nods his head in agreement before plucking one of dates from the box. Looking over the sweet piece of fruit he takes a bite and hums in satisfaction at its sweet taste. Surprised by the uncharacteristic juiciness of the date, he is about to mention the fact when he is interrupted again.

"You enjoy them? Excellent!" The man nods happily. "Now a word if we may, your highness."

Finishing off the date, the Sheikh looks around to make sure that he is not being watched or over heard before he rises to his feet and walks with them aside from the gathered arguing men. Again, watching the room to make sure they are not being eavesdropped the Sheikh returns his attention to the two. "My friends, what word have you heard? I need your counsel."

The man is the first to speak when they have settled in the near corner, "The fleeing are tapering down but there are still thousands on the move. Most heading to Aden." He then looks to the woman signaling for her to speak.

"The Prince of Aden has deployed his personal forces into the mountain highways and are moving toward the border to stabilize the area and stop our advance." The woman offers next in hushed words which she immediately follows with looking around to make sure she has not been heard.

The Sheikh let out a shaky sigh as he ran his hand over his eyes, "Curses. This is not the news I had hoped to hear."

The veiled man nods along before offering, "My lord, I understand that facing the enemy is intimidating. However, what you have started cannot be allowed to just go by the way side at the first sign of opposition."

"You must show that you are unafraid. Press the advantage and press the attack. Show strength in opposition and maintain the loyalty of them and gain more." The woman insists looking out on the group of arguing men.

The mention of loyalty strikes a tone in the head of the Sheikh. Although he was brought to power over the movement by popularity, the maintenance of control has been altogether another complicated story. The competing figures of the movement with their own opinions on how it should be operated means his authority is constantly questioned.

"You must act. If you stand by too long, they will lose faith in you. If you stand limply then this campaign will be all for not." The man insists stepping closer to the Sheikh.

The woman follows in stepping closer and sternly asserts, "Do not stand as little more than a forgotten faceless rebel."

The Sheikh could feel a swell of adrenaline course through his body as he listened to the persistent masked individuals. He also felt am increasing hankering for more of those delicious dates he had been given.

He swallowed his desire for the fruit down as he nodded along listening to the obscured man further speak, "They, the Chinese, are on the defensive. You've struck two victories and Allah has gifted you with the exposure of the Sana'a governor."

"You have the moral high ground." The woman insisted sternly as she interjected, her eyes fierce and piercing.

The man stepped even closer almost pressing against the Sheikh as he stated, "It is your duty to advance."

"It is the will of Allah." The woman declared with fiery determinization in her eyes.

The Sheikh's emotion boiled over at their persistent encouragement, "You're right! Absolutely right!" He declared abruptly with the adrenaline moving his feet forward. He returns to where his seat is and addresses the council, "We must act and act now!"

"Brothers! It is the will of Allah that we advance forward! To fight the infidel and expel them from our lands. Together we fight even if it means our death! Our deaths in battle is paradise in heaven. Our fight will inspire the suppressed to battle against the imperialists and throw off the chains of Chinese slavery. Together we must raise the black flag of Allah and charge forward without delay or quarter!"

Sheikh Ahmad declared loudly and without room for argument. The room of men erupted in cheers, ululation, and cries to Allah. The majority of the men gathered around the Sheikh continuing their celebration and congratulations for his bold step forward. Only a few kept their distance in somber quiet.

The disguised man and woman watch the celebration around Sheikh Ahmad. They side eye each other with a knowing look and nod. They then slip from the room and head for the shadows from which they appeared from. Before doing so, the veiled man reveals his wrist. Pressing into the skin, a screen lights up to reveal an interface in the skin. Pressing and dragging his finger over a few buttons and indicators, he sends a message out and quickly closes out of the interface.

300 miles south of the AFJ's headquarters, in the Palace of Aden, Jin-ho's wrist lights with a notification. Swiping over the 'skin' of his wrist and opening the interface, he reads of the success of the mission with a pleased smirk.

I was honestly hoping we'd hold out by the time I came back. All hail our zombie overlords! Also happy Halloween.

Argent wrote:

snipps

300 miles south of the AFJ's headquarters, in the Palace of Aden, Jin-ho's wrist lights with a notification. Swiping over the 'skin' of his wrist and opening the interface, he reads of the success of the mission with a pleased smirk.

Deep within the fortified walls of Prince Zixin's estate in Aden, Zhensu and Jin-ho occupy the Prince's study. Zhensu occupies herself with preparing drinks at the bar. She clinks the crystal, glass, and porcelain vessels holding the various liquors and wines. With three glasses prepared, she abandons the bar and walks across the office. Zhensu finds Jin-ho leaning against the wall and firmly places the glass of his poison of choice down on the table near him with a sharp nod.

She then marches to the Prince's desk to place another glass down in front of the space in front of the owner's seat. Just behind the desk is an open door from which rustling and movement can be heard inside.

With a grunt, the Prince's presence is made known from the other room. "While I appreciate the accentuation..." Zixin states as he saunters through the doorway, the protective skintight Chinese silk armor-suit pools at his hips which exposes his smooth and unblemished well tone upper body. What is on the Prince, properly, hugs tightly to his body; indeed accentuating every curve of muscle and flesh. He smooths the hair on top of his head before running his fingers through the pony tail that his long silky hair has been tied back into.

He lets out a sigh in frustration as he rests his hand on his hip to pick up where he had left off, "I forgot what a pain it is to get into the armor skin."

Noticing she is starring at the Prince's half naked form, Zhensu lets out a great sigh with a slight shake of her head as she tries to focus. With her wits about her again, Zhensu explains, "It will become as a second skin, your highness. And if you are going to lead them like an Imperial commander than you need to dress like them." Zhensu notes pushing her glasses back to the top of the bridge of her nose.

"And so, I must play the part of the good soldier; a life willingly given in service to the empire!" Zixin recites in mocking declaration of the old saying to Zhensu and Jin-ho. "I know." He whines before picking up the glass from his desk and sipping on the dark golden liquid. "I am just reminded now why so few nobles actually go to the battlefields. Well, this and the fact they are cowards." He chuckles as he takes another sip of his drink.

Setting the drink down, Zixin pulls up the skinsuit and starts to slip his arms in. "Now, report on the situation in the north." The Prince directs to Jin-ho as he slips further into the body-hugging material.

Sheng China wrote:

Deep within the fortified walls of Prince Zixin's estate in Aden, Zhensu and Jin-ho occupy the Prince's study. Zhensu occupies herself with preparing drinks at the bar. She clinks the crystal, glass, and porcelain vessels holding the various liquors and wines. With three glasses prepared, she abandons the bar and walks across the office. Zhensu finds Jin-ho leaning against the wall and firmly places the glass of his poison of choice down on the table near him with a sharp nod.

She then marches to the Prince's desk to place another glass down in front of the space in front of the owner's seat. Just behind the desk is an open door from which rustling and movement can be heard inside.

With a grunt, the Prince's presence is made known from the other room. "While I appreciate the accentuation..." Zixin states as he saunters through the doorway, the protective skintight Chinese silk armor-suit pools at his hips which exposes his smooth and unblemished well tone upper body. What is on the Prince, properly, hugs tightly to his body; indeed accentuating every curve of muscle and flesh. He smooths the hair on top of his head before running his fingers through the pony tail that his long silky hair has been tied back into.

He lets out a sigh in frustration as he rests his hand on his hip to pick up where he had left off, "I forgot what a pain it is to get into the armor skin."

Noticing she is starring at the Prince's half naked form, Zhensu lets out a great sigh with a slight shake of her head as she tries to focus. With her wits about her again, Zhensu explains, "It will become as a second skin, your highness. And if you are going to lead them like an Imperial commander than you need to dress like them." Zhensu notes pushing her glasses back to the top of the bridge of her nose.

"And so, I must play the part of the good soldier; a life willingly given in service to the empire!" Zixin recites in mocking declaration of the old saying to Zhensu and Jin-ho. "I know." He whines before picking up the glass from his desk and sipping on the dark golden liquid. "I am just reminded now why so few nobles actually go to the battlefields. Well, this and the fact they are cowards." He chuckles as he takes another sip of his drink.

Setting the drink down, Zixin pulls up the skinsuit and starts to slip his arms in. "Now, report on the situation in the north." The Prince directs to Jin-ho as he slips further into the body-hugging material.

Jin-ho, per usual, keeps his eyes largely focused on the interface in his arm. Reading through reports, checking off notifications, and sending messages to his network of agents in and around Sheng Arabia.

He barely acknowledges Zhensu' existence as she places a drink next to him. Jin-ho provides a courteous nod of thanks to her own nod and a soft grunt of acknowledgment. Ever since his arrival, the two of them have been at some tenuous odds. Likely protective of her position as Zixin's right hand and not enjoying having to share authority with the Prince's new left hand; him. Maybe she is suspicious of his foreign ties, allegiance to the Emperor of Argent, and of the power that he holds to ruin all of them. Or she might just be an unpleasant bitch. The possibilities were endless, Jin-ho reasons, and therefore cared little about what issue she had against him. He had a job to do and it was going to get done and get done the right way no matter who stood in his way.

When the Prince enters the room, Jin-ho catches a quick glance of the man. He returns to the device, but double takes the view of the half exposed Prince in front of them. His eyes rake over the Prince's tone body, surprised that such a spoiled Prince would maintain such a physique. However, in his own gawking at Zixin, Jin-ho happens to catch the uncharacteristic ogling of none other than the cold shrew that is Zhensu. Several many things suddenly clicked in his mind in regards to his previous thoughts on their relationship.

Amused with what he was seeing, Jin-ho smirks softly as he swipes away the interface on his arm. Jin-ho picks up his drink and sips from it as he starts to nonchalantly circle the room. He eyes Zhensu and shoots her a quick wink and playful smile as starts to provide a report as the Prince demanded.

"Dear Prince, the north has descended into chaos. Communication cables and power lines have been cut and detonated by the rebels." He announces as he struts around the perimeter of the room. "The roads are being raided by the terrorists. Car bombings are frequent. Our security checkpoints are frequently strafed and skirmished. The people are scared and fleeing in droves. The most significant development is that Sana'a has been surrounded, cut off, and is under siege." Jin-ho takes a long sip of his drink before continuing, "It is all going accordingly." He smiles mischievously.

Arrving at the Prince's desk, Jin-ho tsks observing the Prince struggle to put on the body suit. "Please, your highness." He side eyes Zhensu quickly before returning his attention to the Prince, "Allow me to assist you."

Jin-ho gently takes hold of Zixin's hips from behind, "Sometimes it takes a helping hand or two to slip into these tight situations and to hit the right spots." He chuckles while dragging his hands up the Prince's sides with firm but smooth motion, pulling the silky armor bodysuit tight against the Prince's body. Jin-ho spies Zhensu watching him and he shoots her a wink and devilish smirk as he then pulls the zipper slowly up the Prince's back.

Taking a step back, Jin-ho looks over the bodysuit hugging the Prince's taut body. "You're going to knock them dead, your highness." He chuckles before looking over at Zhensu, "Don't you agree, Zhensu?"

Jin-ho picks up his drink and quickly changes the topic back to the report without giving Zhensu a chance to respond. "A show of force lead by our gallant Prince up the highway to Sana'a should break the siege and allow us to reestablish a life line with the city. As a result, Prince Zixin will be hailed the Hero of Sana'a!" He sarcastically declares raising his glass in the air to Zixin and taking a drink. A sinister smirk then crosses his lips, "And to the conquering hero go the spoils."

Sheng China wrote:

The Imperial Court is elated to receive the Ambassador of Trans-Amur to establish official relations with the Empire. As a long standing friend to the Sheng Empire, Trans-Amur is a welcomed addition to the world stage.

Ambassador Dmitry Vadinkov is invited to travel to Beiping(Beijing) to meet with Grand Prince Wei and Imperial Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cao Shicai, for a conference on the establishment of official relations.

In the meantime, Beiping is being decorated for the occasion with flags of both the Empire and Trans-Amur. A grand welcoming festival is prepared with music, parades, performers, and vendors throughout the streets and squares. It is being taken as a chance to put Beiping on show after years of rebuilding the former metropolis since the city's liberation from the now defunct Choson Empire.

While enroute to Sheng China for talks the plane carrying the Ambassadors plane was shot down by bandits near the border. After a nearly a weak of widespread searching the Ambassador was found along with 1 of his bodyguards but sadly the advisor and the other bodyguard was killed in the crash or escaping from the bandits. The bandits managed to avoid the search parties but where eventually discovered and destroyed by coordinated helicopter strikes. Despite all that had happened to him and his team, they all insisted on going to Sheng China despite a broken arm, afew bruises and some cuts to show that despite everything nothing can stand in the way of these talks.

Thus despite being a week and a half late Ambassador Dmitry Vadinkov lands in Beiping with a new advisor new bodyguards and his arm in a cast.

Argent wrote:

Jin-ho, per usual, keeps his eyes largely focused on the interface in his arm. Reading through reports, checking off notifications, and sending messages to his network of agents in and around Sheng Arabia.

He barely acknowledges Zhensu' existence as she places a drink next to him. Jin-ho provides a courteous nod of thanks to her own nod and a soft grunt of acknowledgment. Ever since his arrival, the two of them have been at some tenuous odds. Likely protective of her position as Zixin's right hand and not enjoying having to share authority with the Prince's new left hand; him. Maybe she is suspicious of his foreign ties, allegiance to the Emperor of Argent, and of the power that he holds to ruin all of them. Or she might just be an unpleasant bitch. The possibilities were endless, Jin-ho reasons, and therefore cared little about what issue she had against him. He had a job to do and it was going to get done and get done the right way no matter who stood in his way.

When the Prince enters the room, Jin-ho catches a quick glance of the man. He returns to the device, but double takes the view of the half exposed Prince in front of them. His eyes rake over the Prince's tone body, surprised that such a spoiled Prince would maintain such a physique. However, in his own gawking at Zixin, Jin-ho happens to catch the uncharacteristic ogling of none other than the cold shrew that is Zhensu. Several many things suddenly clicked in his mind in regards to his previous thoughts on their relationship.

Amused with what he was seeing, Jin-ho smirks softly as he swipes away the interface on his arm. Jin-ho picks up his drink and sips from it as he starts to nonchalantly circle the room. He eyes Zhensu and shoots her a quick wink and playful smile as starts to provide a report as the Prince demanded.

"Dear Prince, the north has descended into chaos. Communication cables and power lines have been cut and detonated by the rebels." He announces as he struts around the perimeter of the room. "The roads are being raided by the terrorists. Car bombings are frequent. Our security checkpoints are frequently strafed and skirmished. The people are scared and fleeing in droves. The most significant development is that Sana'a has been surrounded, cut off, and is under siege." Jin-ho takes a long sip of his drink before continuing, "It is all going accordingly." He smiles mischievously.

Arrving at the Prince's desk, Jin-ho tsks observing the Prince struggle to put on the body suit. "Please, your highness." He side eyes Zhensu quickly before returning his attention to the Prince, "Allow me to assist you."

Jin-ho gently takes hold of Zixin's hips from behind, "Sometimes it takes a helping hand or two to slip into these tight situations and to hit the right spots." He chuckles while dragging his hands up the Prince's sides with firm but smooth motion, pulling the silky armor bodysuit tight against the Prince's body. Jin-ho spies Zhensu watching him and he shoots her a wink and devilish smirk as he then pulls the zipper slowly up the Prince's back.

Taking a step back, Jin-ho looks over the bodysuit hugging the Prince's taut body. "You're going to knock them dead, your highness." He chuckles before looking over at Zhensu, "Don't you agree, Zhensu?"

Jin-ho picks up his drink and quickly changes the topic back to the report without giving Zhensu a chance to respond. "A show of force lead by our gallant Prince up the highway to Sana'a should break the siege and allow us to reestablish a life line with the city. As a result, Prince Zixin will be hailed the Hero of Sana'a!" He sarcastically declares raising his glass in the air to Zixin and taking a drink. A sinister smirk then crosses his lips, "And to the conquering hero go the spoils."

Zhensu's eyes could not throw daggers hard enough if they could as she starred at Jin-ho. Her muscles tightened and her blood boiled seeing Jin-ho's the shameless display of touching the prince. She kept her face blank as she always did so as to not betray her feelings; fully knowing that Jin-ho was taunting her.

Running his hands down the bodysuit skin to make sure it fit properly, Zixin hums approvingly. Especially running his hands over where Jin-ho's hands had been. "Two hands, indeed." Zixin purred quietly.

His ears perk with Jin-ho's declaration of Zixin as a 'hero'. A title that has never been used for him before in his life. It had a nice ring to it even if it was said sarcastically, he thought to himself. It certainly swelled some pride in his chest and the hints of a smile tugged at the corners of his lips.

What does bring a smile to Zixin's face is the mention of the 'spoils.' Knowing that the 'spoils' implied the acknowledgment and advancement of Zixin in rank and consideration within the Imperial Governorate and hopefully the Empire proper. Thus advancing their plans a major step forward.

"I like spoils." He said with a smile as he picked up his own drink from the desk and pressed the cool glass to his lips to drink. He then put the drink down and snapped his fingers; signaling to Zhensu to order in his pages.

Zhensu nodded her head in confirmation and went to the door of the office. She opened it and gave a quick wave to the pages outside. The two young men quickly entered rolling in the Prince's black and gold body armor hung from a rolling stand. As per Sheng custom the armor belonging to Imperial officers, especially royals and nobles, is in the elaborate style of ancient dynastic plate and scale armor. Although appearing as ornate medieval Chinese armor, he protective wear is actually a highly advanced battle-suit with a network that is integrated with the inner silk based bodysuit designed to provide vitals, advanced situational awareness, communications, and intelligence to the wearer.

Zixin walks to the open space in the middle of the room and snaps his fingers again; alerting the pages to go to their work. The young men are quick to work, taking individual pieces of the armor and slipping them onto Zixin who moves at their slightest long practiced suggestion. As each piece is put on they interlock with the previous to make the complete suit. With suit on, the last touch for the pages is to tie the Prince's hair into a bun, attach the Prince's floor length cape to the shoulders and provide him with the long feathered crested helmet.

A floor length mirror was quickly provided for Zixin to look at himself in. He admired the fit and power that the suit exuded. He looked like a very different person wearing it.

"I look like I'm from one of those romantic period dramas." Zixin snickered looking at himself and not quite able to take it seriously. "I am a royal prince. Not a solider. Am I really going to inspire and lead soldiers?"

Happy Thanksgiving!

Trans-amur wrote:

While enroute to Sheng China for talks the plane carrying the Ambassadors plane was shot down by bandits near the border. After a nearly a weak of widespread searching the Ambassador was found along with 1 of his bodyguards but sadly the advisor and the other bodyguard was killed in the crash or escaping from the bandits. The bandits managed to avoid the search parties but where eventually discovered and destroyed by coordinated helicopter strikes. Despite all that had happened to him and his team, they all insisted on going to Sheng China despite a broken arm, afew bruises and some cuts to show that despite everything nothing can stand in the way of these talks.

Thus despite being a week and a half late Ambassador Dmitry Vadinkov lands in Beiping with a new advisor new bodyguards and his arm in a cast.

(Im so sorry for being so late, i've been so very blah and bleh lately and struggling to get along.)

(Also I apologize for accidentally suppressing the post. Total slip! Im so sorry!)

Relieved to hear that the Ambassador has survived his harrowing ordeal with only a few injuries, Beiping jubilantly welcomes Valinkov to the city. The festivities that had been put on hold at the disappearance of the Ambassador now roll out in full force. Vendors and performers peddle their craft. Banners and flags fly high and proudly. The people of Beiping danced and mingled in the streets enjoying the festivities and celebration.

Ambassador Vadinkov is met by Imperial Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cao Shicai, and a troupe of Imperial Guards flying the Imperial standard and the flag of Trans-Amur. Upon meeting the Ambassador, Minister Cao bows his head in respect which is simulatenously followed by a salute from the Imperial Guards.

Raising his head, Minister Cao addresses Vadinkov, "Your Excellency, I welcome you to Sheng China and the proud city of Beiping. I and the city itself are relieved and over-joyed to see you safe and in one piece."

Minister Cao turns to gesture between the parallel standing lines of Imperial Guards flanking a blue carpet. At the end of the standing rows of guards is a waiting limousine. "If you would follow me, I will escort you to the Audience Hall at the Beiping Palace. Grand Prince Sheng Wei awaits us there. He sends his apologies for not meeting you himself, but he is feeling unwell and exposure to the cold air will only exasperate it."

The Minister then descends down the carpet toward the car with the Ambassador. On arrival the doors are opened the the Minister gestures for the Ambassador to and his entourage to enter the spacious suv limousine. Once all are inside the vehicle pulls away and begins driving toward Beiping Palace to meet with Grand Prince Wei.

"I will of course hold my questions about your terrible ordeal until we meet with the Prince so that he may also hear it. All I ask though is that you will allow us to escort you and your entourage back to Trans-Amur when our summit is complete; so that we may assure your safety." The Minister earnestly asks him while opening the small bar that the cabin had; revealing the small cache of bottles of various spirits. "Would your Excellency care for anything? I hear that a common drink in the north is Vodka and Tarasun. I even acquired Sbiten if you wish something non-alcholic." He gestured to the Ambassador's advisor and bodyguards offering the same.

"Also, please feel free to ask me anything on the way to the palace." Minister Cao mentions as the limousine enters the city proper and begins heading down the main boulevard where the gate to the palace proudly stands tall.

Sheng China wrote:

Zhensu's eyes could not throw daggers hard enough if they could as she starred at Jin-ho. Her muscles tightened and her blood boiled seeing Jin-ho's the shameless display of touching the prince. She kept her face blank as she always did so as to not betray her feelings; fully knowing that Jin-ho was taunting her.

Running his hands down the bodysuit skin to make sure it fit properly, Zixin hums approvingly. Especially running his hands over where Jin-ho's hands had been. "Two hands, indeed." Zixin purred quietly.

His ears perk with Jin-ho's declaration of Zixin as a 'hero'. A title that has never been used for him before in his life. It had a nice ring to it even if it was said sarcastically, he thought to himself. It certainly swelled some pride in his chest and the hints of a smile tugged at the corners of his lips.

What does bring a smile to Zixin's face is the mention of the 'spoils.' Knowing that the 'spoils' implied the acknowledgment and advancement of Zixin in rank and consideration within the Imperial Governorate and hopefully the Empire proper. Thus advancing their plans a major step forward.

"I like spoils." He said with a smile as he picked up his own drink from the desk and pressed the cool glass to his lips to drink. He then put the drink down and snapped his fingers; signaling to Zhensu to order in his pages.

Zhensu nodded her head in confirmation and went to the door of the office. She opened it and gave a quick wave to the pages outside. The two young men quickly entered rolling in the Prince's black and gold body armor hung from a rolling stand. As per Sheng custom the armor belonging to Imperial officers, especially royals and nobles, is in the elaborate style of ancient dynastic plate and scale armor. Although appearing as ornate medieval Chinese armor, he protective wear is actually a highly advanced battle-suit with a network that is integrated with the inner silk based bodysuit designed to provide vitals, advanced situational awareness, communications, and intelligence to the wearer.

Zixin walks to the open space in the middle of the room and snaps his fingers again; alerting the pages to go to their work. The young men are quick to work, taking individual pieces of the armor and slipping them onto Zixin who moves at their slightest long practiced suggestion. As each piece is put on they interlock with the previous to make the complete suit. With suit on, the last touch for the pages is to tie the Prince's hair into a bun, attach the Prince's floor length cape to the shoulders and provide him with the long feathered crested helmet.

A floor length mirror was quickly provided for Zixin to look at himself in. He admired the fit and power that the suit exuded. He looked like a very different person wearing it.

"I look like I'm from one of those romantic period dramas." Zixin snickered looking at himself and not quite able to take it seriously. "I am a royal prince. Not a solider. Am I really going to inspire and lead soldiers?"

Looking over the armored prince, Jin-ho chuckles dismissively at Zixin's assertion. "Must I remind you of your illustrious cousin, your highness?" He questions as he kicks off from the wall where he had been leaning and sipping his drink. Jin-ho proceeds to elaborate on his own question. "The very great and powerful yet majestic and serene Grand Prince of Sheng China, Sheng Zhang Wei. The man is a fairytale prince in nearly every way and he still inspires literal armies of hardened veteran soldiers to obey his every command with fervent enthusiasm."

Jin-ho shoos away the pages as he places himself next to the Prince and looks with him at their reflections in the mirror. "Let the drama character look be your strength, your highness. People, even soldiers, are looking for larger than life figures to inspire them and make their lives worth something." He adjusts the prince's cape so that where it joins the shoulders' pauldrons lays flat and symmetrically.

Happy with the prince's look, Jin-ho takes a step back to look over Zixin. With a pleased hum and nod looking over the attractive general to be he continues, "So, as they say, 'turn into the skid.' Be empowered by your tv drama look. Speaking from a place of total confidence in yourself, including how you look, they'll love it. They'll fawn over you AND serve your every command with enthusiasm."

"Wouldn't you agree, Zhensu?" Jin-ho asks looking over his shoulder at the disgruntled prince's secretary with a wink. "The fairy tale prince of our dreams!"

(Ooc: I've been dragging pretty bad too so dont feel bad. Its a stressful time for all of us i think.)

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!

Merry Christmas!

Argent wrote:

Looking over the armored prince, Jin-ho chuckles dismissively at Zixin's assertion. "Must I remind you of your illustrious cousin, your highness?" He questions as he kicks off from the wall where he had been leaning and sipping his drink. Jin-ho proceeds to elaborate on his own question. "The very great and powerful yet majestic and serene Grand Prince of Sheng China, Sheng Zhang Wei. The man is a fairytale prince in nearly every way and he still inspires literal armies of hardened veteran soldiers to obey his every command with fervent enthusiasm."

Jin-ho shoos away the pages as he places himself next to the Prince and looks with him at their reflections in the mirror. "Let the drama character look be your strength, your highness. People, even soldiers, are looking for larger than life figures to inspire them and make their lives worth something." He adjusts the prince's cape so that where it joins the shoulders' pauldrons lays flat and symmetrically.

Happy with the prince's look, Jin-ho takes a step back to look over Zixin. With a pleased hum and nod looking over the attractive general to be he continues, "So, as they say, 'turn into the skid.' Be empowered by your tv drama look. Speaking from a place of total confidence in yourself, including how you look, they'll love it. They'll fawn over you AND serve your every command with enthusiasm."

"Wouldn't you agree, Zhensu?" Jin-ho asks looking over his shoulder at the disgruntled prince's secretary with a wink. "The fairy tale prince of our dreams!"

(Ooc: I've been dragging pretty bad too so dont feel bad. Its a stressful time for all of us i think.)

As much as she hated to admit it, Zhensu knew that Jin-ho was right. The prince needed to do everything and anything to boast his position and image if their grand scheme were to work. A public profile as a 'larger than life figure' and idealized 'fairy tale prince' would launch him in public opinion and into the upper stratosphere of the empire's power circles.

With a hard swallow of her nerve and desire to physically harm Jin-ho, Zhensu stepped forward with a nod, "I agree." She announces aloud. "Jin-ho is speaking truthfully. Confidence is key."

Zhensu has been the prince's personal secretary for almost 10 years. Even if Jin-ho has Zixin's attention at the moment, she knows the prince and how he works. She could see the slightest sign of uneasiness in his face at the moment over the situation and their push for him to play the new role. Knowing the prince for so long however allowed her to know just what buttons to push to get the necessary result.

The secretary then walked over to the near wall adorned with ornately embroidered draperies. Prince Zixin watches Zhensu as she strolls across the room. Grabbing ahold of the central drapery depicting an epic of dragons dancing among the heavenly clouds, Zhensu gives the cloth a hard tug that brings it to the ground.

"What are you doing?!" Zixin snaps in alarm at Zhensu making a mess of his office.

Now on the floor, the drapery reveals on the wall behind it, a large official grand portrait of the Grand Empress on the Imperial throne. The portrait, mandatory in audience halls and office spaces in Sheng, looms over everyone in the room. Zixin keeps it covered outside of official meetings to avoid the Grand Empress' piercing judgmental stare.

Gesturing to the painting, Zhensu explains, "The Grand Empress, the Grand Prince, and the rest of the Imperial clan have the air of divine right and supremacy not because they have actually each been personally imbued with Heaven's Mandate by any sort of celestial power, but because they are fully confident that they have it anyway." Noticing the slightest twitch of Zixin's face in building anger with the mention and comparing to the imperial family, Zhensu knows that she has his attention.

Abandoning the portrait and advancing upon the next wall depicting the global map of the empire Zhensu casts her hand over the image, "The entire Imperial system is based on the confidence of the Sheng dynasty in their divine right to rule. Everything the Imperials do is a show of their confidence in that right."

Turning away from the map and walking to the mirror that stands in front of Zixin, Zhensu looks at the prince and then looks at the image of him in the mirror. "Exude confidence and your lessors will fall in line. Your position as prince allows you that confidence and the room in which to act like you have it without question. Play the part and you won't fail." She assures him.

Zixin mulls Zhensu's words as he looks at himself in the mirror with his armor; considering how the people do like heroic looking figues. His eyes flick back to the critical harsh stare of the Empress' portrait on the near wall. He thinks of Jin-ho's words that echo much the same as Zhensu's. Ultimately he comes to the conclusion that he can play the part. He is after all a royal prince and his grooming has given him the confidence and ego to carry himself otherwise. This ploy is no different. The added support of Jin-ho supporting his command and Zhensu's strategies will get him through.

"You're right. Both of you. Of course you're right!" Zixin finally exclaims. "I am Sheng Zixin, a Prince of Sheng. A flick of my wrist and well placed smile, I'll have them eating out of the palm of my hand." He chortles loudly, filling the room with his laughter. Making for the door, Zixin calls back to Jin-ho and Zhensu, "Let's to war then!"

Sheng China wrote:

snips

"And to war we shall go." Jin-ho smiles with a mischievous chuckle. Pulling away from Prince Zixin's side, Jin-ho reopens the interface in his bionic forearm. A few command strokes and the strategic map of southern Arabia is projected onto the large screen the descends from the ceiling of the office.

The map shows that much of the interior of Sheng Arabia is highlighted in red denoting that it is occupied or hostile. Much of the coastline and major city areas are blue showing the Chinese areas of control.

Jin-ho draws their attention to the western interior city labeled Sana'a, which while itself blue is completely surrounded by red. "Sana'a is besieged. Our campaign's primary priority is lifting the siege. If the city falls to the rebels it will take nothing less than carpet bombing the city to get them out of it. With control of Sana'a the entire west of Yemen is theirs." A another command into the interface in his arm shows the region fall an intimidating solid red block.

"When we have control of Sana'a it will be a spring board from which we can launch attacks onto the rest of the region and regain control." With another command, Jin-ho shows a break in the siege and blue arrows the emanating out from Sana'a with the surrounding territories turning blue. "The enemy will be driven out of the west and forced into the desert region where they won't be able to survive."

Casting his hand to the more south westerly region of Yemen, Jin-ho brings the maps focus onto the city of Ta'izz. Another interior city held by the empire but with the encroaching red line of the rebels. "First, before we reach Sana'a, we must march north and break the advance encroaching on Ta'izz. Meeting the rebels head on near the city of Ibb. Ta'izz must be protected or Aden will be left exposed."

Jin-ho swipes his hand over interface on his forearm which shuts it down and snaps the television off. "Sounds easy enough, doesn't it?" He chuckles before heading for the door. Taking hold of the door knobs, Jin-ho throws open the large doors of the office.

He turns back to look at the Prince, "Your army is ready to march. So let's mount up, your highness. We have a lot of ground to cover while the sun still shines and you still have to parade from the city with the army to show off your dreamy fairytale princeliness to the public."