[b]Kythian, Lydiah[/b]

Duke Elvahn burst into the the Council Chamber, almost catapulting a guardsman into a small knot of government officials. He abruptly bowed stiffly to those assembled and sat down on his throne, producing a sheaf of papers from somewhere and throwing them out onto the table.

"This is all the messages and reports we have received from the newly formed Prussian Empire." he began. "Requests for help from both sides, and other worrying news. My agreement with the former Lance Empire is critical to the survival and growth of our colonies in the New World, but I do not feel that I can continue to support the new government in the violent [i]silencing[/i] of their own subjects."

"Then what do you suggest, your Grace?" asked one of the Thanes.

"I do not know." replied Elvahn wearily. "For one thing, we must defend ourselves from any attack from Prussia, from whatever side it may come. I am chiefly concerned by some of the radical protest groups. Send half the army to the northern border with the Empire, and have the other half be on alert everywhere else. I want 3 barques and 2 frigates patrolling the strait between former Numburg and Lydiah. It's not much, but it will give us early warning if anyone tries a sea-based invasion."

He stood and put a hand to his brow, as if in pain. "We will continue this later. You Thanes, make your own plans about how best to defend your provinces. Farewell!"