June 27th, 1938.
At the Valorian Capital, in Volkshalle, Alexander sat in a grand, high-backed chair beside an ornate wooden radio, the low hum of the machine filling the otherwise silent room. His piercing gaze was fixed on the device as the voice of the news reporter crackled through the air.
"Reports from Zambesi have confirmed that General Raelthorn Graves and the Valorian Expeditionary Force have successfully landed in Maputo. The Matalebe forces, who pose an immediate threat to the city, are being monitored closely. Defensive fortifications are already underway as Valoria's military presence strengthens its hold in the region."
Alexander nodded in satisfaction after hearing the news. He wanted every Valorian to be informed about the progress of their army in Zambesi. He believed that this would increase the morale of his population and keep them satisfied.
Even though he entirely ruled over the nation as its supreme leader, the system doesn't guarantee people's loyalty over to him. If they saw their leader making mistakes that could otherwise lead to the weakening of Valoria, unrest could begin to fester.
As he was listening for further reports, Sebastian entered the office quietly, pushing a tray filled with a selection of confectionaries. He moved with precision, ensuring that the tray did not disturb the atmosphere in the room. The faint clink of fine china was the only sound, aside from the low hum of the radio.
"Your Excellency," Sebastian said with a respectful bow, "I thought you might appreciate a refreshment while you listen to the latest reports."
Alexander glanced at the tray, then back to the radio. He waved a hand toward the confectionaries, signaling that he wasn't ready to partake just yet.
"I'm not in the mood for sweet just yet," Alexander said. "Where is my Chief of Staff?"
"Julieanne is already heading towards your office, Your Excellency," Sebastian replied, standing at attention.
Alexander gave a small nod of acknowledgment, turning his gaze back to the radio.
"Now we move on to the news about the developments in Valoria. Construction of the bridges, railways, highways, and other infrastructure projects continues at a rapid pace, following the directives of His Excellency Alexander Herald von Triesenberg," the voice from the radio reported.
Alexander listened closely as the broadcast detailed the progress of his domestic initiatives. These projects were just as crucial as the military operations. A strong infrastructure meant a strong economy, which was necessary to sustain Valoria's military expansions. The people had to see progress not just in the conquest of foreign lands but in their everyday lives.
"New rail lines connecting the northern industrial zones to the central capital are set to be completed by the end of the year," the report continued. "This will enhance the transportation of resources vital to Valoria's continued growth and expansion."
"What do you mean?"
"You see... the three departments of the Valorian Armed Forces—Air Force, Navy, and Army—are contending for glory. The Army wants total decimation of the Matalebe tribes through ground operations, whereas the Air Force insists that a precision bombing campaign will bring faster results," Julieanne explained, her tone betraying the delicate balance she was trying to maintain.
"And the Navy, though mainly supportive of both, believes that they too can be as significant as the other two by pounding the locations of the Matalebe Tribes through naval artillery strikes from the sea could deal enough damage to the Matalebe forces, while also asserting their dominance in this campaign.
In short, Your Excellency, the branches are more interested in proving their superiority than in ending the conflict efficiently."
Alexander leaned back in his chair, his brow furrowing in irritation. "So, it's a contest for glory. Instead of focusing on the victory of Valoria, they're focused on their own status."
"Yes, Your Excellency. That's the unfortunate truth," Julieanne replied.
Alexander's eyes narrowed as he mulled over the situation. "Send a message to all three branches. Inform them that I will not tolerate competition at the expense of the country's objectives. I want this conflict over quickly, with as few Valorian casualties as possible."
Julieanne bowed slightly. "Understood, Your Excellency. I will send out the orders immediately."
***
At Maputo.
General Graves was handed a note from one of the officers. He curiously read the note and read.
"The Air Force will conduct another bombing raid and the Army should advance forward to eliminate those who survived."
After reading the note, he scoffed. "So they want to end the war that quickly huh? Very well...let's give it to them."