The morning sun filtered through the tall windows of Alexander's office in Volkshalle, casting a muted glow across the room. The Supreme Leader sat behind his desk, deep in thought, his fingers lightly tapping on the surface. The recent diplomatic efforts with Zambesi weighed heavily on his mind.
The news of Zambesi's aggressive stance against the Matalebe tribes had already caused waves within Valoria.
A soft knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts. Without looking up, he responded, "Enter."
Julieanne stepped into the room, her face serious. She held a folder in her hand, one that Alexander could tell carried significant news. She approached his desk with purpose and placed the folder in front of him before speaking.
"Your Excellency, I've just received the latest report from Zambesi. Minister Chuma met with our ambassador, Viktor Reinhardt, and it appears they are not backing down."
Alexander's eyes flicked to Julieanne, his expression unreadable. He opened the folder and scanned the contents, his jaw tightening as he read. "So they have chosen defiance."
Julieanne nodded, her voice steady. "Yes, Your Excellency. King Mwanga has made it clear that Zambesi will continue its operations against the Matalebe tribes. They view it as a defense of their sovereignty, and they are prepared to lose our alliance if that's what it comes to."
Alexander's fingers stopped tapping. He leaned back in his chair, exhaling slowly as he processed the information. "So they would rather risk their entire kingdom than comply with our demand?"
"It seems that way, Your Excellency," Julieanne replied, her eyes locked on Alexander's as she continued. "They believe they can weather this storm without our support."
Alexander's gaze drifted towards the window, the vast cityscape of Volkshalle spread out beneath him. "Pride has destroyed more nations than any war or famine," he muttered under his breath. He turned back to Julieanne. "And yet, Zambesi still believes it can stand alone."
Julieanne hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "Your Excellency, our ambassador warned them of the consequences. He made it clear that Valoria would not tolerate a campaign of extermination under the guise of defense. But their response was resolute. They believe they are in the right."
"Prepare it," Alexander said. "I'll review the final draft before it's released."
Julieanne made a note, her focus unwavering. "Understood. I'll coordinate with the Foreign Affairs Ministry and the public relations team to ensure everything is in order."
Alexander rose from his chair and moved to the large window, gazing out at the city below. "Once the announcement is out, ensure that the aid freeze and military disengagement begin immediately. I don't want them thinking they have time to persuade us otherwise."
Julieanne left Alexander's office with a sense of urgency in her steps. She immediately made her way toward the Foreign Affairs Ministry, where the machinery of Valoria's diplomatic and political operations was always in motion.
Upon entering the ministry's main hall, she was greeted by the familiar hum of activity. She didn't waste time as she made her way directly to the offices of the Foreign Affairs Minister, Emily.
Inside the secretary's office, Julieanne briefed her on the directives from Alexander.
"We need the recall of Reinhardt and all diplomatic staff in Zambesi," she stated clearly. "This is to be done immediately, with no delay. I will send an official communiqué to our embassy there, and it will be followed by a public announcement."
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"Wait...His Excellency cutting ties with the Zambesi Government?"
"That's correct Emily and he wants it done as soon as possible," Julieanne said.
"Okay, if His Excellency wills it."