TIKKA PALACE — THRONE ROOM
"A single member from each house has been selected to represent their houses," Animus said, his voice steady as he read from the document before him.
"Each of you has been assigned a role to serve and contribute to the kingdom.
As you are all aware, several reforms have already been implemented.
The construction efforts have progressed, and the removal of slavery within the capital has been completed. The trade and use of slaves are now fully abolished within the capital.
The next phase will require the enforcement and explanation of this law across all regions of the kingdom.
You have been chosen for these responsibilities.
The roles you carry may be difficult at first, but with time, you are expected to understand and fulfill them."
He paused briefly before continuing.
"Freya Brann of House Brann, you are hereby assigned the role of Grand Chancellor. You will study under Lord Silas Vane of House Vane until you are fully capable of carrying out your duties independently."
At that moment, the doors opened. The commander of the Max Guard entered and stepped forward.
"You sent for me, my king," Kaelen said, lowering his head.
Animus continued without interruption.
"Alric Lot of House Lot, a new special force has been established. You are assigned as its commander. This force operates under direct authority and may only be deployed by the King or the Grand Chancellor."
"Varik Karsis of House Karsis, you are appointed Treasurer. You will oversee the financial systems of the kingdom, including taxation and economic management."
"Commander Kaelen, you are assigned the role of War Minister.
You will oversee all military operations and defense strategies of the kingdom."
"Jeff Morholt of House Morholt, you are appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs. You will handle alliances, treaties, and diplomatic relations on behalf of the kingdom."
Animus turned slightly, addressing the remaining representatives.
"Lyra Corven of House Corven, you are appointed Master of Intelligence.
You will oversee intelligence gathering, internal surveillance, and information control within the kingdom."
"Lucan Velisa of House Velisa, you are appointed Minister of Civic Development. You will oversee infrastructure, public systems, and development projects across all regions."
"Darion Eredin of House Eredin, you are appointed High Justiciar. You will oversee the judicial system, ensure the enforcement of law, and maintain legal order within the kingdom."
Animus lowered the document.
"These are your assigned roles.
You are expected to carry out your duties accordingly."
Lord Silas Vane of House Vane rose from his seat, his posture straight as he addressed the council.
"As we are all aware, Lake Vail is a critical state for the movement of goods between Daria and Fulton.
Fulton remains a powerful nation, known for its control over diochrome and other high-quality gemstones.
Fulton previously refused to trade with Tikka due to the issue of slavery within our borders.
However, under the rule of King Charlotte, significant reforms have been implemented to end this practice.
In light of these changes, we initiated communication with both Fulton and Daria. As of now, Tikka has officially closed its borders. Fulton will no longer be permitted to transport goods through Lake Vail into Daria."
He paused briefly before continuing.
"The issue of counterfeit gemstones has not been fully resolved.
While many individuals connected to the operation have been eliminated, the trade itself continues.
Recent reports indicate that approximately 3,000 civilians have gone missing from Daria.
In addition, a separate crisis involving a virus has affected 14,000 civilians.
Tikka has not been held responsible for these incidents.
Given that key figures involved in prior operations have already been eliminated, we believe another party has taken control and is continuing the operation."
Silas glanced toward the council before delivering the next statement.
"We have obtained intelligence identifying the production site of these counterfeit gemstones.
The operation is based in Lake Vail, within an underground network known as the Black Market.
This will be the first assignment of the Special Force unit.
Your objective is to locate the operation, apprehend all individuals involved, and shut it down completely."
Silas Vane returned to his seat.
A brief silence followed,King Charlotte then rose from the throne.
"From this moment forward, all members present will remain within the palace.
This will serve as your place of residence.
Accommodations have been prepared. Each of you has been assigned a room equipped with everything necessary for your duties and comfort."
Her gaze moved across the council.
"This concludes today's session. Thank you for responding on short notice."
She sat back down, and the meeting came to an end.
HOLY CHURCH OF FULTON — COUNCIL CHAMBER
Only a few members remained in the chamber.
King Alaric Voss sat at the head of the table.
Seated around him were Priest Tharion, Priest Ithar, Priest Ravik, Priest Jorven, and Priest Eryndor.
The doors opened.
A guard stepped in and approached the table, holding a sealed letter.
"This was delivered from Tikka," he said, bowing slightly before handing it over.
Priest Tharion took the letter and broke the seal. He read it silently, then spoke.
"Tikka has issued a directive. The movement of gems from Fulton to Daria through Lake Vail is no longer permitted. All passage through that state has been restricted."
A brief silence followed.
Priest Ravik leaned forward. "Then our current trade route is no longer viable."
Priest Jorven nodded.
"Daria's request may need to be reconsidered.
A teleportation facility would allow direct transfer without relying on Tikka."
Priest Tharion glanced toward the others. "It would resolve the transport issue."
Priest Ithar spoke without hesitation. "No. The decision remains unchanged.
We will not allow a human nation to establish a gateway within Fulton."
No one challenged the statement.
Priest Eryndor spoke next. "Then we will need an alternative."
Priest Tharion turned toward the guard. "Send for Kaito."
The guard hesitated.
"My lord… Kaito is no longer within the capital."
The room shifted slightly.
"Explain," Priest Ithar said.
"He departed earlier," the guard replied. "He has gone to Tikka to handle the Phantom thieves."
Silence returned to the chamber as the information settled.