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Message after message came into the office of Emperor Lothair II. Most were rather mundane things like reports, expenditures, collected tax revenues. However, one messenger suddenly ran into the room. "Your Majesty! War! War has been declared by the Republic of Oflua and the Empire of Echyan! The armies of the Republic march on the Capital of Sescos as we speak!" Lothair II offered no response and silence filled the room for several long seconds. He stood up from his chair and began to walk out of the office. His attenders and retinue hurried to follow him as he continued to walk to the barracks of the City.

His arrival spurred the once silent regiments into formation. They were in the midst of their regular patrols and duties, and the sudden appearance of the Emperor stirred the men. Within the minute, the regiments were formed up in their marching formations, saluting the emperor. With silence once more returning, Lothair finally spoke up "For ages, the Empire of Attolia has long been a peace loving country, forging friendships and forming peaceful resolutions during conflicts. We have always kept our word and never given anyone reason to doubt our promises. Merchants around the world take solace in making promises with Attolians, knowing that the promise given by an Attolian will be fulfilled. Yet, in our past, there have been those who doubted the resolve of Attolians and resorted to strong arming us. We have time after time, risen to meet our promises even when they require appropriate force.

Our words are not cheap, and they are never wasted. It is for this reason, I ask of you, the pride of the Empire. Will you uphold the promises of our people?" 

[b]"Aye!"[/b]

"Then gentlemen, here is my message to you and the world. The Empire of Attolia hereby denounces the transgressions and hostilities of the Republic of Oflua and the Empire of Echyan, and demands that the two cease all military actions and return to their borders. Failure to do so will be met with a formal declaration of war."

Cheering erupted from the men. They had long been expecting such a conflict with either the Kingdom of Ubren or the Empire of Echyan, and were ready to finally fight. Lothair II saw this as an opportunity to have better relations with the Kingdom of Ubren and de-escalate the tensions. After all, it was very possible that they would be allies in a bitter war. Regardless, relations with the Empire of Echyan were at an all time low, largely due to trading and colonial conflicts. A war with the Echyan Empire would certainly be a popular conflict. Thus, the armies of Attolia began to stir, in eager anticipation of war.