“In coordination with the Logistical Branch, will apply the Zulu Time Zone to standardize coordination between Earth and Alagore. All military planning will follow Zulu standards, including coordinating with local allies. We are attaching an Alagore Standard Time (AST) for conversation. Zulu will be used to reference Earth and AST for Alagore.
A year is a full rotation of this system's host star, Dorash, being AST 315.5 days or 369.75 Zulu days (following Tekali orbit), and a month is AST 31.43 days (approximately 36.71 Earth Zulu Days). This allows a month to have three weeks, with a week being one orbit around the host planet, equaling three local days, all a total of ten months in a Tekali year.
The Alagorian calendar follows a 1:2:3:4 orbital resonance system. Orgatrash is the first world, Kallinth is the second, Alagore is the third, and Thrice is the fourth world (Virmina is fifth, and Logia is sixth, but neither has an orbital resonance). All these worlds orbit a Gas Giant called Tekali (warning to all staff: the Alagore religion centralizes around this world significantly, so all respect must be given).
As stated, all military operations will be focused on Zulu time to streamline operations.” - Oracle
April 7th, 2068 (military calendar)
Salva, the former Confederacy of Daru'uie
Nevali Region, Aldrida, Alagore
*****
Hearing the intense rainfall impacting the house roof, Mathew Ryder stared at the blazing fire at the center of the room as he played with his Christan cross necklace, reflecting on recent events. It was the standard red-orange type, as no one was trying to hide but wanted to stay warm. Crystal light bulbs were around the walls; all were off, as there was no electric power in the city.
This Moon's rain forced the Minutemen to plan their operations around it. The ridged terrain around Salva creates a risk of mudslides and ambushes. Luckily, it has slowed the enemy, slowing their frequency of attacks.
"My Lord," Yeldan asked. "Are you listening?"
Ryder heard his name, which brought him back to reality. The newly appointed Duke of Salve turned from the warm fire toward his motuia political advisor, Varitan Yeldan. The elf was a wood elf with tan skin and black hair that stopped past the shoulders and gray eyes. The man looked middle age, probably a few hundred years old in his species' lifespan. Unlike the maid staff, who wore red and white, he wore a dark green and black silk-like rob with a wide Spanish red belt. White designs were flowing evenly, looking like a 3-D pattern of a cube.
Once the rain lifted, Mathew Ryder was about to go on a penetration mission. However, he had to deal with last-minute political issues for the city. His mentor, William Hackett, provided a list of requests for the Council to address; however, this didn't make it easy for him, as he found adjusting to political life much more complicated than expected.
As an Army officer, he had a support system and a chain of command to rely on. While he had Hackett and Yeldan, he was forced to figure out how to be a ruler on the fly.
"Sorry," Ryder said. "I was in deep thought. You were talking about money?"
"That is correct," Yeldan said. "The Council is upset that Lord Folen Elstina has been getting all your people's contracts."
"We are at war," Ryder replied. "It would be the first priority to restart your arms industry. Besides, we have only been here for a month."
"I understand," Yeldan said. "As your advisor, that grace will not last forever. Your kind and House have the will of the people; however, economic growth must be addressed."
"He is right, Father," Assiaya said, who was sitting in a chair next to him. "Many of the shop owners see you as customers, not spending coin."
It took a moment of reflection, but Ryder finally saw his advisor's point. Defense was important, but people needed money to pay their bills. While he didn't want to speak to his people, sooner or later, the US government wouldn't want to carry the people of Salva and possibly other allies' load. The Americans would like an economically thriving Salva for trade, and to other nations, siding with them would be beneficial. The City-State of Salva would never be on the same level economically compared to the United States; even a low-ranking officer like him could see the potential economic value of the city. Being the first major populated center by the Bridge, a portal between two worlds. If the Americans played their cards right, this city could become the next Artimus Base on the Moon, a hub for expansion.
Ceka approached while carrying a tray. Inside were three glasses: two for water, a slice of green citrus fruit, and the other for blue juice berry for Assiaya.
Ryder turned to his Head Maid, grabbing his drink. He thanked her but felt awkward having someone waiting on him. He had seen such service for Colonel Hackett, especially with Generals regarding domestic needs, but he never expected it for himself, now living an aristocratic life.
The Captain knew his royal status was fake in his country's legal eyes, and he still preferred to see himself as a soldier over a royal politician. However, Hackett placed this responsibility on his shoulders and vowed to do his best.
He held up a document with the Council's transcript and was surprised at how little they accomplished. After a half-day debate, only two subjects were mentioned: "Varitan. I understand that housing and currency exchange are the two issues."
"Those are the two current issues on top of dozens," Yeldan said. "But, yes. Unless you believe another issue is more important, I recommend addressing those first."
"I will pass these to Colonel Hackett," Ryder said. "My people value property rights, so I do not see an issue. And assuming we stay here for the long run, I think filling vacant homes won't be an issue. Americans also need a place to sleep. Regarding the banking system, it will be resolved. We just need to modernize it to allow our currency to flow through yours. One of our computers can easily do that."
"I will pass this news to the Council," Yeldan said.
"No need," Ryder said. He waited to see the reaction from the Wood Elf. The elf stared at the Duke with confusion but remained silent. "Assiaya will pass this to the Council in my absence."
"If that is your wish," Yeldan said disgruntledly.
Seeing the motuia advisor's discomfort, he scanned the rest of the document. There were only minor issues, like sewer repair and building reconstruction. However, food was still the primary topic of concern during this blockade.
"I also have made progress on a food solution," Ryder said.
"These chickens that I have heard so much about?" Yeldan asked. "I hear they can produce unlimited eggs. Quickly, if I may add."
Ryder chuckled, finding this conversation bizarre. "I do not know the history of chickens outside, but I believe eggs stopped being a luxury item centuries ago, if not longer. It never dawned on him that this simple flightless bird could become their salvation. While it wouldn't solve the food crisis, it would reduce reliance purely on MRE shipments," he said.
"Not unlimited, but close," Ryder replied. "Sherman agrees with the plan and will send a few truckloads here. I don't have an ETA yet, but I don't expect this will take long."
"That will be good for the public to hear," Yeldan said. "Even if these... chickens... have limited success, it should boost morale among the commons."
He leaned back as he read through the documents before pulling out a new set of proposals.
"I received these from Hackett today," Ryder said. "This time relating to motuias."
"Let me guess," Yeldan said. "More law translations?"
"That is correct," Ryder said. "As you can see, we are trying to meet your cultural customs halfway, but to do this, we need to be able to read your laws."
"I understand," Yeldan said. "Translating Elvish to your English is tricky. "
"Two thousand years of language evolution makes it hard," Ryder said. "It will get easier in time, but until then, it is the hard way."
"That will take time, but that can be done," Yeldan said. "Is there any topic you wish to prioritize?"
"Yes," Ryder said. "Start with the motuia-related documentation. If I am going to have these servants, it would be best to learn the moral way to do it."
"I understand your kind are sensitive on such matters," Yeldan said.
"Sensitive?" Ryder said. "I am sticking my head out for you people in trying to make our alliance work. If this backfires, I will be first in the public guillotine."
"Father," Assiaya said. "If your people hate our ways that much. Why are you embracing it?"
"I am not embracing," Ryder said. But I am trying to bridge two worlds; the only way to do that is to understand each other. Moral policing will not win this war, especially if we do not understand each other's customs. And the truth is, I trust Natilite that your motuia system has been a net benefit to society—not an oppressive one."
"In other words," Yeldan said. "Politics as usual. I will prioritize the translations in addition to a list of proposal changes."
"I think Assiaya should handle the process," Ryder said. He then noticed the same confusion and annoyance in the wood elf's eyes. In his peripheral vision, his daughter also looked confused by his hostility toward their advisor.
"My Lord," Yeldan said. "Have I done something to offend you?"
"Father," Assiaya said. "You can trust Yeldan. He has been a big help to me in taking the role of Princess."
The Captain sat in his chair, staring at his political advisor. Ceka, please take Assiaya."
"Yes, my Lord." Ceka gently touched his daughter and explained that it was time to go.
The room went silent in confusion at the Duke's mannerisms. His Head Maid obeyed his order, and Assiaya stood from her seat. She stared at him confusedly but followed their Head Maid out of the room.
Once alone, the two stared at each other in a tense silence. After what felt like minutes, Yeldan attempted to speak before being interrupted by Ryder. "What is your deal?" he asked.
Yeldan stared at the Altaerrie Captain with confusion before saying, "My Lord?"
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"Let's drop the Lord stuff in private, or this will be a long night," Ryder said.
"You prefer to speak directly alone," Yeldan said. "I can respect that."
"But do you?"
"I am sorry, but I do not know what you mean."
Ryder returned toward the sizeable square fireplace in the middle of the room, staring at the blazing hot flames. It was a tactic that he had seen his mentor have done to him many times, remaining silent while staring at something else. The idea was to gain posture; however, with a quick glance, he could see that the elf looked annoyed and concerned, forcing him to wonder if he was doing it wrong. Regardless, the Captain continued.
"What are you doing here, Varitan."
"I am here to guide you and the Princess in Salva and Alagore politics. I am your motuia advisor, after all."
Ryder turned toward the wood elf, "Do you remember when we first met?" he asked.
"Of course," Yeldan said. "It was right after your team took the city. You made a passionate speech to calm the Militia. Then again at Vagahm."
The truth was that Mathew Ryder was surprised that the elf remembered. It had been multiple weeks ago, but a lot had happened since then. "I also remember. You have been a big help in managing this city even before we installed my daughter as Princess. But now, you are giving us political advice."
"And that is why you are upset? That I am doing my duties?"
"Not that you are doing your duties. It is the manner of it. You are not a dumb man; that is clear."
"Then what is the issue?"
"My issue is this. Why did you choose to remain a motuia? Aka, volunteering to be my property?"
"If I may correct, you have Ceka."
"Ceka was a gift that I was forced to accept for PR reasons. And the truth was, I needed someone to watch over the domestic needs of my House when I am away. And I do get it, the principle. If you want something, you must give something in return - nothing is given for free. For Ceka, she serves my family in return for being taken care of."
"That is well put. If you understand the principles of our culture, why are you angry with me?"
"When I was making the Ceka contract, I remember reading a clause regarding whether an owner is killed or if there is no ligament successor, the contract becomes void. With all respect to the previous House that ruled this city, they are gone. But that begs the question: You could have easily ridden yourself off of being an indentured servant without any fuss from my people and maintained being a political advisor for my family. Hackett or I wouldn't have a second thought. But you have gone out of your way to install yourself as my motuia without my consent."
"That is a simple response. On Alagore, the motuia institution is important-."
Ryder waved the elf off. "And don't give me the cultural response crap. We both know you had a free ticket out of this situation and prosper in this new reality. I have been forced to learn much about this institution over the past few weeks. No disrespect to Ceka, but people like her are using it to gain a free home, increase their station, and steady pay in exchange for their services, and that is okay. Others use it as a form of apprenticeship, but there is one other detail that I have noticed. Gaining key status within society. And you are way too ambitious to indenture yourself for tradition."
Seeing that Varitan Yeldan was about to speak, Ryder held his hand up, signaling he was not finished. "Above all else, I will not trust another man around my daughter if he has alternative motives."
The Captain could see Varitan Yeldan staring at him, not with a blank stare but with the wheels within the elf's mind turning. But it didn't take long for the political advisor to respond as if he had already assumed this was where the conversation was going.
"I see your concern." Yeldan held his right hand and showed his binding mark, like that of Assiaya and Cekra. "I see you have been learning the ways of Alagore, and I respect that. I will make it clear; you are correct. It crossed my mind to attempt to remove my contact and act as a free agent."
"Then why didn't you?" Ryder asked.
Yeldan lowered his hand and walked toward the fireplace, staring at the flames next to the Captain. "Because it wouldn't be proper. A House ruler, in this case a Princess and Duke, has their close advisors be a motuia, not a politician, to remove any foreign and personal influence or bias. We belong to you. Everything we do must be dedicated to you without self-interest and not be corrupted by selfish desires. You cannot serve if your ego acts as a barrier or the influence of bribes."
"I understand that. And yet?"
"And yet, with your people's arrival, I can see you will change the direction of Alagore. In what direction, I do not know, but it will. I have already seen the people of this city changing. A day may come when we will not be allies but citizens of your empire, but that is a topic for another day."
It took Ryder a moment to mentally follow Yeldan's point; however, the Captain believed he had figured out the advisor's angle. The elf was looking toward the future, whatever that might be, and concluded that staying close to this American puppet noble family front would only open opportunities in the future. This was a direct insight into alien culture and politics.
"I think I see where you are going with this," Ryder said. "If you are going to be my motuia political advisor, I need to know what motivates you. Because loyalty cannot be forced but earned."
Yeldan took a deep breath and said, "I wish to become a leader of this city one day, and I am also uniquely positioned to learn another world governing system—maybe within your people's political system. But to do that, I must serve you and Assiaya. One of my stations cannot leave or will be seen as a traitor. "
"And the only one at the moment," Ryder commented, seeing the long-term advantage of such knowledge.
To Ryder's confusion, he saw the elf kneeling before him, creating an awkward feeling. Some of him wanted to say something; however, he knew he should remain quiet and wait to see what happened.
"Master Ryder," Yeldan said. "As you stated, I am no fool. I understand that becoming this city's noble head was not your desire. Only accepting the position to protect your daughter from the horrors of politics. I honor that, but your actions have earned my trust since we first met. Accept me as your advising motuia; I promise to honor your will. I will carry out your wishes and deal with the political dealings of this world and yours. Being a vessel for your House, I will bring honor to you."
The Captain realized what Yeldan wanted. The elf would wish to use this opportunity to build connections and gain critical knowledge and insight to promote a future political career. If the Wood Elf wanted to advance in politics, the House of Ryder would need to succeed, or his ambition would collapse. The elf was willing to tie himself to his House to achieve his dream.
Feeling hot from the conversation and awkward, Ryder knew he still had much to learn about this world if he would play the part properly. Having someone by his side, but more importantly, by Assiaya's side when he was not there, was just as important.
"Stand up."
Yeldan glanced up slightly before standing. Ryder could see fear in the elf's eyes for the first time. Not knowing what to expect, he cheerfully placed both hands on his motuia political advisor's shoulders.
"In my House, no one kneels. Now that I know the man, I will accept this arrangement. Do me and my daughter, and I will do you right."
April 8th, 2068 (Military Calendar)
Salva, the former Confederacy of Daru'uie
Nevali Region, Aldrida, Alagore
*****
Hearing the Council discuss the latest issues the city was enduring, Princess Assiaya struggled to listen. In annoyance, she leaned back into her Father's throne, which he refused to sit in.
"Princess," Yeldan whispered. "You must pay attention."
"We spent two hours about chickens," Assiaya replied.
"It is important," Yeldan said.
To reduce the food shortages, the Americans brought chickens to Salva and gave them to the Council as a gift. The intention was that the City Council would figure out how to divide the animals, as Colonel Hackett wanted to stay out of internal politics—at least directly.
What was meant to solve the food problem turned into a political crisis. This usually wouldn't happen over a gift, especially an ordinary animal. However, everyone quickly understood the value of the flightless bird. Most animals that produce eggs conduct the act slowly and are time-consuming, making an egg a luxury item. However, chicken eggs proved nearly infinite, turning eggs from luxury items to everyday products.
The head of the leading merchant guild, Itotia, was a powerful Yalate within the City-State. The Yalate wanted to monopolize animal and corner production, angering the other guilds and causing a crisis for local businesses that did not benefit from the merchant guild.
"I know…," Assiaya said. "I just miss my father."
"I understand," Yeldan replied. "He has his responsibilities, and you have yours."
She sat up and listened to the heated debate. The one challenging Itotia was Tayaki Minoru, who owned the banking guild. His wife, another kitsune, owned the brothel guild, the High Moon.
According to her motuia advisor, the two Houses had always been at economic war. Most major cities have multiple guides competing against each other, typically preventing one from gaining dominance within an industry. Salva, being a small City-State, didn't have much competition. The blessing was that Yalates and Kitunes didn't like each other.
"You cannot be the sole owner of such a gift," Tayaki said.
Itotia waved his hand in an attempt to silence the Kitsune. "These chickens are a merchant good, not a banknote to be handed out. My guild should manage these birds."
"Such items do fall under the authority of the merchant guild," Folen said.
"And collect all the profits," Tayaki stated. "Folen, you must see the value in this. These eggs could produce more profit than your weapons. We could be the hub for exporting such cheap eggs."
"Which is why my guild should manage such an animal," Itotia stated. "I have the means and connections to export such a good."
As the two yelled at each other, Assiaya turned to her advisor. "What do you think?"
"I believe the Americans did not understand the gravity of bringing such an animal to this world," Yeldan said. "What is common for them does not mean it is for us. As they say, culture shock."
"No kidding…," the voice said. "Why can this not be easy?"
"The issue is," Yeldan said. "In normal practice, these Chickens would fall under the regulation burden of Itotia merchant guild. If any funds were needed, they would go to the bank and get a loan. However….”
"There is no money in the banks," Assiaya said. "And Itotia would make enough money to cut out the banks."
"I am impressed," Yeldan said. "The answer is yes. If Itotia gains a monopoly on these farm animals, they would have more influence than your House."
"True…," Assiaya said. "But, I do not want to be a tyrant."
"Then we would have to allow Itotia to have the chickens," Yeldan said.
“But…,” Assiaya said. "No one should not have that much control. How is this not an issue for the Americans?"
"It is a common bird in their world," Yeldan said. "We are the first to have such beasts. The economic potential is worth more than gold if controlled."
The Princess closed her dual-colored eyes as she felt a headache coming. Clearly, the Americans didn't fully understand importing such a common animal into this world. Either because they were focused on solving a crisis or ignorance as the bird was an everyday meal, it bore no second thought.
"So," Assiaya said. "You think we should maintain control over them?"
"We need to boost the economy and mitigate the food crisis," Yeldan said. "If these golden eggs remain in the Council's hands, they will maintain the high cost. However, it would bring much-needed profits to our House and government, which are needed to rebuild our city."
"Why is this so hard," Assiaya thought.
"I was thinking," the voice said. "It was Forest who proposed the idea."
"Yeah…, so?"
"What was that thing they said? Something about people owning chickens. Even Higgins agreed with him, and they never agreed on anything."
"Hmm…. If I recall, it was an amendment. Those are important, I think. Something to do with Constitution if I recall."
For some reason, the point stuck with Assiaya. That celebration that night felt like forever ago, and I barely could remember anything. "Varitan…, do you know American amendments?"
"I have studied elements of their founding documents," Yeldan replied. "Knowing what your master values is a key to survival."
She glanced at her motuia with a no-shit look.
"I mean," Assiaya said. "Does it say everyone can own these animals? Even in cities?"
"It does," Yeldan said. "There is an amendment that states their people can own a chicken herd. I can only conclude there was a time when the State or Guilds attempted to monopolize such animals into the hands of the few. Similar to what we are discussing now."
"What do you think?" Assiaya thought.
"I think Varitan is testing us," the voice said.
"How so? I thought he was direct with the options."
"To direct. He is right that this will help bring funds to our House and the Council. I wonder, do we need any? The Americans are rebuilding Salva, and I do not think Father would want to enrich himself."
"True. Our new Father would not do that. There must be a compromise, though."
“Varitan,” Assiaya said. "I do not want us to horde these chickens. But maybe we can find a balance. What do you propose?"
"I recommend asking the Council," Yeldan replied. "Declare what outcome you desire and see what solutions could emerge. That is why there is chaos on the matter. You must show leadership."
"But I do not know what to do," Assiaya said.
"You do not need to have the solution," Yeldan stated. "Sometimes, you must provide direction to discover the solution."
Seeing her motuia advisor's wisdom, the Princess took a breath and adjusted her posture. Seeing the two Houses in a heated argument, she said, "I have something to say."
Yalate and Kitsune continued to argue as if they didn't hear her. Yeldan then yelled, demanding silence so their Princess could speak. The two Council Members calmed themselves and addressed their leader.
"Thank you," Assiaya said. "Regarding these chickens, my House and this Council will not restrict them from the people."
She could see a sense of disappointment in both Itotia and Tayaki's eyes. The Princess knew why, as they believed that they were about to miss out on a profitable opportunity. "What can we do to make that work so that all of us benefit?"
"We cannot allow everyone a chicken," Itotia said. "A rodent crisis will unfold."
"If I understand," Folen interjected. "They must sell these eggs at a shop like any other product. Why not create an arrangement to encourage such trade?"
"I see what you mean," Itotia said. "There is empty land throughout the city that is transformed into mini-farms. My guild can provide the regulations and contracts for such farms."
"No shop restrictions," Assiaya said. "All shops can bid with these farms."
"I understand, my Lady," Itotia said. "I will treat it like your fishing agreement with the Nagals."
Hearing the Council form a plan to resolve this chicken crisis fairly, the Princess leaned back with a sigh of relief.
"Then it is settled," Yeldan said. "I want your Guilds to formalize proposals on your contribution to this program, and the House of Ryder will review. I expect them by the end of the day."
When the topic was over, Assiaya felt relief. That was until the next topic of debate was mentioned: the sewage build-up from the sudden influx of native and Altaerrie residents.
Assiaya could only hand the back of her head against her chair from boredom.