Captain Ellis stood on the bridge of the VNS Titan, the events of the last hour still fresh in his mind. He watched as the Triesenberg fleet began to pull away, maintaining their formation as they initiated their tactical withdrawal. The standoff, for now, had de-escalated.
"Communications, patch me through to the Defense Ministry," Ellis ordered.
The officer quickly complied, connecting him to Minister Thompson. A few moments later, the line was open.
"Captain Ellis, what's the situation?" Thompson's voice came through, direct and sharp.
"Minister, the Triesenberg Fleet has complied with our demands. They are retreating from the area. We maintained our position without any further escalation," Ellis reported, his tone professional.
Thompson was silent for a beat, processing the information. "And they didn't engage at all?"
"No, sir. They understood the consequences if they didn't comply. Admiral Sturbridge made it clear that their withdrawal was in the interest of avoiding conflict, not a sign of weakness. They're aware we won't tolerate any further posturing."
"Good. We achieved our objective without firing more than a warning shot," Thompson said, his tone approving. "This could have gone much worse, but it seems Sturbridge knew when to back down."
Ellis nodded as if the minister could see him. "Yes, sir. The situation was close, but they made the right call. Our fleet is still in position, and we're monitoring their retreat to ensure it's completed without incident."
"Excellent work, Captain. I'll brief the Supreme Leader. Valoria cannot afford to let such provocations slide, and today we showed that."
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"Understood, sir. What are your orders moving forward?"
"For now, remain vigilant and ensure that they don't double back. Once we're sure they've returned to safer waters, you can stand down and return to regular patrols," Thompson said. "We'll discuss any further actions after this."
"Yes, Minister," Ellis responded. "We'll continue to track them and report back on their progress."
"Keep me updated, Captain. I'll expect your next report soon."
Minister Thompson nodded before heading out of the room. He had to act fast—ensuring that Valoria's naval intelligence was updated and its protocols refined was a top priority now. Thompson knew that another situation like this would not be tolerated by Alexander, and he couldn't afford another near-miss. As he walked out, he passed Lord Reginald in the hallway.
Lord Reginald, his face neutral, gave Thompson a brief nod as they crossed paths. He continued toward Alexander's office, aware that he would soon have to explain the Triesenberg fleet's provocations and Valoria's response.
Inside the office, Alexander's piercing gaze met Lord Reginald the moment he entered.
"Your Excellency," Reginald began, bowing slightly in respect before stepping forward.
"Lord Reginald," Alexander said, his tone sharp but controlled, "I assume you're here to explain why the Triesenberg fleet felt it was acceptable to post up so close to our borders without any warning?"
Reginald hesitated for only a second, then nodded. "Yes, Your Excellency. Triesenberg's actions have caused serious concerns, and I've been in touch with our leadership. I was told that they were just exercising their rights to conduct naval exercises in international waters, as per the law. They did not intend to provoke or challenge Valoria's sovereignty.
However," Reginald continued cautiously, "I understand how the presence of such a large fleet so close to your borders could be seen as a provocation."
Alexander's gaze remained unblinking, his expression stern. "That's an understatement, Lord Reginald. A fleet of that size, positioned where it was, sent a clear message. Whether your leadership intended it or not, it was received as a threat."
Reginald took a steadying breath, aware that he was treading dangerous ground. "I assure you, Your Excellency, that was not the intention. I've been tasked with ensuring that communication between our nations remains open, and I believe we can prevent misunderstandings like this from occurring in the future.
Our leadership has agreed to further clarify our military movements to avoid unnecessary tension."
Alexander leaned forward slightly, his gaze intensifying. "Clarification is one thing, but assurances are another. If the Triesenberg fleet pulls a stunt like this again, it will not be tolerated. We've demonstrated our willingness to respond forcefully. Next time, there may not be a retreat."
Reginald nodded solemnly. "Understood, Your Excellency. I will make sure that our leadership fully comprehends the gravity of the situation and that such actions are not repeated."
Alexander studied him for a moment longer, letting the weight of his words sink in before he spoke again. "Good. Ensure that your leaders understand Valoria's position. Our patience has limits."
"Of course, Your Excellency," Reginald replied. "I will report everything to my government immediately. We value the stability between our nations, and I'm confident that this will not happen again."
Alexander leaned back slightly, his eyes still fixed on the Triesenberg official. "Let's hope you're right. Now, if you have nothing further, you may go."