"Sir, moving an army into foreign soil would spark a diplomatic crisis," Reginald cautioned, his voice laced with concern. "The Valorians might view it as an act of aggression, which could lead to unforeseen consequences. We don't know enough about their capabilities."
"And I believe that the Kingdom of Zambesi is not in any way affiliated with the Valorians. So even if we enter the army into Zambesi, they won't react unless they aren't civil. But there is still a problem, Your Highness. We need justification on why we are sending our army into Zambesi. Only the Military High Command can issue that order even if you advise it," Reginald reasoned.
"That is exactly why we need a casus belli. The tribe of the Matabele," Prince Theodore began. "They are an oppressed minority in the Kingdom of Zambesi vying for autonomy. We will position ourselves as their protectors. This will give us the perfect pretext to enter Zambesi under the guise of a humanitarian intervention."
Reginald nodded, following the prince's line of thinking. "By framing our involvement as assistance to an oppressed group, we could deflect any accusations of aggression from the international community. The narrative would be that we are merely responding to a crisis."
Prince Theodore continued, his gaze sweeping over the assembled officers and advisors who had joined them in the strategy room. "The plan is simple. We will clandestinely support the Matabele with weapons, supplies, and training. We will ensure that they are well-prepared to mount a serious challenge against the Zambesi government.
When the conflict reaches a peak, we will intervene, ostensibly to prevent further bloodshed and to stabilize the region."
Governor Von Strauss leaned forward, concern etched on his face. "Your Highness, how do we ensure that the Matabele do not become a liability? If they start making demands that conflict with our objectives, it could complicate matters."
Theodore's expression hardened. "The Matabele will be useful tools for our cause. If they overstep their bounds or become a threat to our interests, we will deal with them accordingly. The key is to maintain control over the situation at all times."
Reginald interjected, "We must also be prepared for the Valorians to react, even if they aren't directly affiliated with Zambesi. We need to ensure that our forces are strategically placed and ready to respond to any unexpected moves."
"Reginald, are you suggesting that I need your permission to proceed? Or perhaps you are under the impression that you are in a position to give me orders?"
The room fell silent, the tension thickening as everyone sensed the prince's rising anger. Reginald, realizing his misstep, quickly lowered his gaze and took a step back, bowing his head in submission.
"Your Highness, that was not my intention," Reginald said, his voice faltering. "I merely meant to suggest a course of action that would ensure the success of your plan."
Theodore's gaze remained fixed on Reginald, his expression cold and unyielding. "Remember your place, Reginald. I do not require your advice on matters of strategy or protocol. If I say we move forward with this plan, then that is exactly what we will do. The letter to His Majesty will be sent, and the Military High Command will fall in line, as they always do."
Reginald nodded quickly, his posture deferential. "Of course, Your Highness. Forgive my presumption."
Theodore took a deep breath, his temper cooling slightly as he looked around the room. "We will proceed as planned. The Matabele will be our entry point, and once we have established our presence in Zambesi, we will meet our new friend Valoria. Our strategy is sound, and our timing is perfect. We will not let minor obstacles or over-cautiousness derail our progress."
Governor Von Strauss, sensing the need to steer the conversation back on track, spoke up. "Your Highness, we should start establishing contact with the Matalebe tribe as soon as possible."
Prince Theodore nodded in agreement, his earlier irritation now fully replaced by focus on the task ahead. "Yes, Governor. I want you to send our most capable envoys to the Matabele leaders. Make it clear that we offer them not just survival, but a path to true power within Zambesi. They will be the ones to tip the balance in their favor, with our backing, of course."
"I will personally oversee the arrangements, Your Highness."