The Glorious Sixth [Germano-Gallic Theatre]

[Great Engellex]

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Royal Palace at Dulwich​

THE GLORIOUS SIXTH!​

The history of a battle, is not unlike the history of a ball. Some individuals may recollect all the little events of which the great result is the battle won or lost, but no individual can recollect the order in which, or the exact moment at which, they occurred, which makes all the difference as to their value or importance. ​

Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex. 6th April 2011.

Charlotte, the Queen, organised a most splendid state ball for Wednesday’s evening, at the Royal Palace at Dulwich, to her most numerous and brilliant Court, invitations had been issued to above 5,000. Half-past nine o’clock was the hour named for the glorious evening, but well before that hour the aristocrats of Engellex and the gentry had already began to arrive at the Royal Palace. The diplomatic corps, with their wives and eldest of children, and the gentlemen of the respective legations, foreigners of distinction, the cabinet ministers, and other high functionaries of state, privy councillors, the ladies and gentlemen of the household of the Queen, and the members of the imperial family, the Queen’s aides-de-camp, all alighting at the private east entrance of the palace, while the general circle of visitors entered the palace by the front public entrance.

The whole of the illustrious guests were ushered up the grand staircase, lined by finely groomed footman, to the state saloons, which were illuminated with the greatest brilliancy and splendour; and to these were added on this occasion the Map Room, and an adjoining apartment, leading into the west end of the magnificent Picture Gallery, which afforded increased accommodation to the throng of company.

The ball-room was prepared as on former occasions, a quadrille band being stationed in an orchestra, elevated within the alcove. There, reserved, were seats for the occupation of Her Engellexic Majesty and her circle being arranged on one side of the saloon. A second ball room designated from the Throne Room was also prepared for dancing, a band being placed within the Throne alcove, and reserved seats being elevated down the south side of apartment. Both ball rooms and all the state saloons, together with their approaches, were decorated with choice and fragrant shrubs and flowers, tastefully arranged in the angles and recesses. The Picture Gallery divided the two ball rooms, and here the company assembled on their arrival until the entrance of the Queen.

Precisely at ten o’clock Queen Charlotte entered the Velvet Drawing Room from the royal closet, and passed into the Gallery. Her Imperial Majesty, the Queen Charlotte of the Union of Great Engellex, Queen of Cantigny. The Herald declared, with the assembled company succeeding their courtesy to the Queen by following her, and her august circle of towering coiffeurs supplemented with interlaced pearls and other jewels, into the ball room.

Charlotte accepted the hand of the young Duke of Roxburghe into leading the evenings first dance, the

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. Are you certain this is wise? Charlotte whispered, as his Grace’s skill was not something he was quite renown for. A perfectly formed nobleman with exquisite skill in dancing was quite the customary for the Queen’s selection, but, as many remarked at Court, Charlotte had most unashamedly been seduced by the charm and youth of the up-and-coming Duke. The orchestra did begin, and with the greatest amazement Charlotte discovered herself in a partnership with a much talented young man. It would have been difficult for himself to declare that he was not captivated by the porcelain loveliness that he was now moving with. The Court, against its face of impossible formality, was in fact a place of romance.

They were surrounded moments later by hundreds of other couples, allowing them both the opportunity to express their enjoyment less formally. A smile from Charlotte, and a chiselled beam from her handsome Borussian (Germanic) partner. They continued to command the central spot of the floor until the end of that particular waltz, but Charlotte, as the Queen, had many dances to get through - with equally many partners, some of them foreign. It would seem to be quite a day, are you tired? He asked. Oh no, well, not really. It is just - well, I am much stronger than I look. How much longer are you in Dulwich? She replied. Only until Friday, then I return to Wantage, my uncle the Grand Duke must have his report. He joked, them both amused before Charlotte caught the approaching presence of the Cannie marquis, the diplomat to Dulwich. Oh dear. I have to quadrille with the Marquis of Walbrook, the poor little toes of his I do feel sorry for them already.

They both expressed a courtesy. Your Imperial Majesty, he reminded, and they both found their place within the line for the dance.

Across the saloon..

An excellent speech to-day Lord Uxfield! Exclaimed the Duke of Rothermere. Thank you your Grace. Lord Uxfield courtesied. We could do with your brains in the War Ministry. The Duke explained, of course, the Duke was also the Secretary of State of War, as well as, the Field Marshall. Positions such as those are not yours to dispense your Grace. Uxfield replied. Of course, the royal veto runs - the Queen has her favourites. Which they both found light humour in. The situation is desperate though your Grace, we simply cannot go on with unmanned borders in the face of the Second Frankish Empire, and I do not believe the people will continue to lend us their support unless a resolve be had. Lord Uxfield’s political career was advancing impressively, and he was not adverse to encouraging a cabinet rebellion against the Queen. Your Grace, we know why they move about Preuti-Borussia aggressively, because the Queen listens to her friends and not to us. The cabinet is being ignored. The Duke of Rothermere, most intrigued with the Lords courage, responded: What do you suggest?

We draw up a petition. He demanded.

 

[Great Engellex]

THE QUEEN IN COUNCIL​

Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex. 10th April 2011.

I recall Lord Uxfield expressing to me at a congress once; -’By God, Pelham-Holles, do something political!’ - Well. Anthony Pelham-Holles, the Northern Secretary, reminiscing for justification of the Petition which he submitted to the Commons Assembly, much against the Queen before attending a Council with Queen Charlotte.

_______________​

Why must you continue not to act your Majesty? Our neighbours are potential aggressors - they will bring us war. Enquired Edward Russel, 3rd Earl Russel, the Justice Secretary. The Petition had been put to the table of both the Lords and Commons, it has yet to reach the Red Box of the Queen, but the political consequences have already spiralled out of hope of discretion. Many, and particularly the Queen, see it as intended to usurp the Royal Prerogative over the War Estimates away from Queen Charlotte. You only have to look to their movements against the South. Suggested another at the Council. We know that every Court of that Federation take their orders from Franken - the Frankish Court does not acknowledge negotiations, they act openly to the continuance and extension of Frankish supremacy in Preuti-Borussia. They follow the perverse superstitions. The War Secretary, the Duke of Rothermere, made his point, founded on paranoid interpretations of what is perceived as Frankish Imperial Policy for Europe, particularly clear. It was, after all, the Duchess of Rothermere who originally coined the widely termed Second Frankish Empire when referring to the European Defence Federation.

How many Courts belong to the Federation? Asked the Queen. Immense numbers, almost half of Preuti-Borussia and the Boreas, your Majesty. Responded the Justice Secretary. What would you have me do? Declare war on half the States of Europe - or just embargo them? Charlotte suggested with an increasing degree of sarcasm. We must act your Majesty! Our inaction is perceived as weakness! At this point it was evident that an understanding between the two institutions was diminishing much more swiftly than the moral fabric had of the so called ‘21st Century Societies’ that could be found around Europe, especially in the Federation.

If the Federation attacks my people then they shall be punished. Until then, I will not plunge my country, my people into war with half of Europe! This was to be the first time the Northern Secretary dared address the Queen, having found his courage supplemented by the statements from his colleagues in the Cabinet to the Queen. Your Majesty we have proven reason to fear an advancement by the Federation on Engellexic interests. The loyalties I have for my constituents compels me to act on this, it will otherwise be a conflict of loyalty. The use of that term, loyalty, caused a few varying glances across the table, at which they all sat around. LOYALTY! YOU DARE TALK OF LOYALTY?! Conflict of loyalty?! Where is your loyalty to me?! The sudden outburst froze the room, the footmen simply didn’t dare shift an eye at the scene. Charlotte was not known for aggressive outbursts, however, this was extraordinary; the country’s political elite were gripped with paranoia, and the Queen was concerned by the usurping Petition.

The matter of fact is Sir, you have intended to usurp my authority. It was inevitable that the discussion should lead them to the Petition, to believe they could steer clear of it was naïve, it was all that has been discussed since it was introduced to Parliament. One cannot usurp the authority of the Crown ma-am. The Royal Prerogative remains so, the Petition was simply to induce you to use it in the benefit of this country. Anthony Pelham-Holles tried to remain calm, the Engellexic monarchy was not weak and symbolic as like others throughout Europe, it was constitutional - elected, and powerful. So I have no say as to where I shall apply the Royal Prerogative? Why don’t you simply acquisition the Crown and move yourself and your Solaris swine into the Royal Palace! I am sure the people will be happier with the lot! The Queen’s uncle, the Grand Duke of Wantage, approached Charlotte and brought his hand upon hers in an effort to bring her down. Your Majesty, you have exhausted the topic.

 

[Great Engellex]

STANDISH-MEREDITH AND HASTING-SASCHEN​

Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex. 17th May 2011.

Despite the pleasures of the fashionable Spa city of Islington, one could not stay forever at Islington and in May it was necessary to spend the most time in Dulwich, for national conventions, not to mention the aplenty of pomp and pageantry. On Lord Mayor of Dulwich’s Day, that is of the 27th ins., Queen Cahrlotte must attend the dinner at the Dulwich Mansion House, which was always to be a glorious occasion given in her honour. It was pleasant riding through the streets and seeing how her regal air both awed and pleased the people. A little bookish, isn’t she? Charlotte heard one woman say, which wasn’t at all very respectful, as she remarked afterwards to her mother, the Dowager Duchess of Hountton-Wolssex. Oh I don’t know, was her answer, I have always had a great respect for those being bookish.

After her visitation of a local event, when she returned to the Royal Palace at Dulwich, there was a series of red briefacses awaiting her from several ministers. She recognised the urgency, the briefcases were red! They were from her ministers that sat in the Commons Assembly, that being the Secretary of the Northern Department, the Secretary of the Southern Department, the Public Works Secretary, and the Presidents of the various Boards, who were all still in sitting waiting for the Queen to consider the impossible demands of the Opposition Coalition. The Queen was shocked and deeply wounded. She had, she roared, been insulted at the parliamentary sessions of the Commons Assembly and it was humiliating for the Queen to be treated in such away by those she expressed great loyalty to, to see them sit in agreement with lesser fellows.

When the Dowager Duchess of Hountton-Wolssex read the statements, which Charlotte passed to her, she was concerned. Parliament had divided into two domestic factions - that of the Queen and her Ministers who are leading the suffrage effort, and then the Opposition with the Whig Party leadership at the head, supported with unsatisfied Pitts. The Dowager Duchess, of the Queen Mother as she prefers to be styled, particularly dislikes the Whig Party elites who were constantly making sly allusions to her ancestral background, which were foreign. It was gratifying therefore, that the Lord Charles Standish-Meredith and Mr. James Hasting-Saschen had to beg almost for an interview with the Queen as they had no official title, and so was not allowed to come to the Queen at times more agreeable to them.

I, of course, shall have to permit them, sighed the Queen. You are the Queen, your Majesty, said her mother significantly. I know, but it is due. They are members of my Official Opposition, and the constitution certainly does not empower me to alter that. Which was a pity, thought the Dowager Duchess, but knew that Charlotte would not wish to hear anything on it, as the Queen was very much aware of her duties and took them, and the office, very seriously.

So the Lord and his squire came to the Royal Palace that evening, and Charlotte almost felt as though in a suffocating embrace, for their fidgety demeanour was most disagreeable she thought. In spite of the crisis that had developed in the Commons, the Queen and the two gentlemen could find no ground in which they may build an agreement She strenuously reiterated to them that it was her constant endeavour to bring about the extension of the franchise, it is long overdue and this country shall not be taken seriously unless otherwise, she told them. Which had merit as an argument in itself, internationally the reputation and respect of Great Engellex was diminishing as this political affair continued.

 

[Great Engellex]

QUEEN OF CHANGED HEARTS​

Chorlton, Union of Great Engellex, 23rd May 2011

The Queen felt angered. She wondered whether she should go to Vesper. Charlotte understood the caution that had to be taken and so did her ministers, the Queen was uncertain what to do. The Council of State was being so peevish when she suggested leaving Dulwich for Vesper. Oh, how she missed the greater degree of freedom to travel before becoming Queen!

Sunday evening came the terrible news. Sir James R. Tillingsby, a Whig parliamentarian, was dead. He had had a kind of heart attack which had been brought on by an unnecessary level of stress, which was widely reasoned as being his own doing for being a Whig. So Great Engellex had lost another child of democracy, as the papers proclaimed. He was a dearest member of my parliament, the Queen remarked, but she knew that this was what they had expected of her to say, for the sake of avoiding a political scandal. She privately retorted how she would have been quite thankful should he have been taken by the Lord before the voting of suspending the suffrage bill. An anxious time followed the parliamentarian’s death but the mind of both Queen and Parliament was taken from loss to concerns of State.

The Queen was very dissatisfied with her ministers; there was great anxiety about the Northern Council and the Keltisch, the economic affairs of which were now almost causing concern for the Engellexic economy. A group of fanatical gentlemen, the Godless Revolutionaries of Zadar as they are commonly known, had also escaped imprisonment within Zadarska of the Zadar-Istrian Islands which is under Engellexic rule, and so a grave concern. The ministers, to the Queen’s utter dismay, decided that it would be better to delegate this situation to the Lord Commissioner of Zadar-Istria and his government, agreeing however to assist with security forces should the assistance be needed. The efforts of the Imperial Officers of Zadar since, have been so enthusiastic that there was, as the Queen described it, unnecessary terror within Zadarska; but finally the ministers found agreement with the Queen to send a force to the islands to re-establish order. The force is yet to be formed in Engellex, however.

Mr. Anthony Pelham-Holles’ conception of Empire was, unfortunately, not that of her favoured Lord Brockett of Great Downs; and Charlotte considered it the height of disaster to Great Engellex that that clever man had died to leave matters in the hands of that terrible Mr. Pelham-Holles.

There was also much with which the Queen had to concern herself with at home. The Women’s Suffrage Bill had been stopped, and it was a great irritation to the Queen’s ministers to have to contend with her constant deploring of that fact, despite the fact that there was usually something of much greater importance that needed her attention. It was noted, though, by Whigs of the Commons that Charlotte had become far too fond of Chancellor Felix Ilchester, that dreadful radical they called him, and now the Queen herself was becoming swayed in her thinking by this radical. The Queen was taken round the Chorlton Royal Engellexic Air Base onMonday morning to see how the conditions of her air squadrons faired and declared herself to be horrified. Or so they said.

She herself now agreed to the recommendations of her ministers. Something must be done. The War Secretary, Field Marshall Arthur Batten-Lyon the Duke of Rothermere began making the Queen aware of the conditions that raged against the Armed Forces in Engellex, now that something was to be done.

 

[Great Engellex]

THE NEW PROJECT​

Royal Palace at Dulwich, Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex, 28th May 2011

The Queen was now greatly interested in the Armed Forces of Great Engellex. In view of the situation Charlotte believed that she, who has proved an excellent figure head for a national cause such as the suffrage movement, should adopt another national project and tour the military establishments of the country. The Queen visualised a glorious and respectful tour, with wonderful regimental pomp and pageantry put on in her honour. She pondered briefly on the expense, it would be quite an expanse of money, but she agreed that the public purse should put up the money for the expenses of such a tour for it was clear that this was well within the national interest, and above all, Charlotte was the Queen.

Charlotte raised the matter with the Home Secretary the Earl of Onslow, the Treasurer the Earl Grey, and the Northern Secretary Sir Anthony Pelham-Holles, who all responded cautiously, not wanting to find a great public expense, or provide reasonable foundations for paranoia of the European Defence Federation. The Queen, however, wilfully misconstrued their attitude as enthusiasm and held a meeting with the War Secretary, and the First Lord of the Admiralty. My Lords, she said, you know that yourselves and my other ministers have often encouraged me to have an interest in the Armed Forces, I believe that it would do great good if I toured the services throughout Great Engellex, and this is just the time to do it, said the Queen significantly.

The Queen was always so headstrong when touring the Union; she was never sure what mischief she might find. Often, though, her ministers complimented Charlotte on her qualities to bring accurate attention to a cause and, although sometimes a little indiscreet, her national tours had on the whole done immense good for the country’s image internationally, and for the respect of the monarchy and government. The two ministers listened. If the other ministers believed it would be excellent for the Queen to tour the military stations of the country then perhaps Charlotte was right on this matter. The War Secretary, the Field Marshall Duke of Rothermere, told the Queen that he was really delighted with the project and that it would achieve much for the Armed Forces. None will be able to do it better than yourself, M’am, the Duke said.

However, the political affairs, more specifically the Women’s Suffrage Bill, provided an unfortunate distraction from further project planning. The bill had been suspended in Parliament following the most unholy of political alliances in the Commons, which has proved to be the most odious irritation of the Queen. Later that evening, on the urgency of the Home Secretary, the Queen permitted an interview with the cabinet on the notion of the bill.

The ministers marched in two columns through the corridors of the Royal Palace, their heels echoed throughout the adjoining halls. Succeeding formal courtesy, there is no hope M’am, spoke the Home Secretary. The Bill has certainly been defeated your Majesty, there are five voices, five parties, five fronts against us, added the Justice Secretary. Charlotte began to pace before her ministers, observing the floor with intent thought. Concede on the suffrage. Adduce to the will of the peoples representatives, M’am, the Justice Secretary continued. There is nothing available at your disposal to do, followed the Northern Secretary, and despite their encouragement it was certainly evident the Queen’s graceful displeasure at this display, or she would term it ‘going shaky on me’.

Why? So the Commons can all keep their seats? Their seats which are without corruption, Charlotte replied with sarcasm from the exhaustion of this despicable topic. Hear me my ministers, if there is anything I should most disagree with, it is infidelity, what do you advise me to do? I made a guarantee to the women of Engellex that they shall have representation - and they SHALL have representation! Slammed the Queen, her palm against mantle of a fire place. Charlotte turned to her ministers pulled out a stack of papers, which were correspondence she had received on this matter. We need to fortify our position in the Commons. The tea rooms, they need consistent sweeps for support, which should have bee necessarily done to begin with - however, not so. The Northern Secretary uncomfortably found himself the target of her Majesty’s implication.

But your Ma-, began the Home Secretary, who was interrupted by the Queen. We must consolidate our support. Organisations must be mobilized. The League of Free Women must be mobilized. The Association of Professional Women must be mobilized. Every element of support must be mobilized on Dulwich! The ministers shuffled eyes amongst themselves and consented to the Queen’s orders. It occurred to them that in this instance, Charlotte’s proposal for a demonstration may actually induce uncomfortable members of the Grand Coalition (those that opposed the Women’s Suffrage Bill).

 

[Great Engellex]

THE COUNTESS OF ROTHES​

Royal Palace at Dulwich, Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex, 29th May 2011

Constance arrived in Dulwich. She was the Countess of Rothes, she was beautiful, cosmopolitan, vivacious and also the sister of Queen Charlotte. She had come to Dulwich upon the request of her mother the Dowager Duchess of Hountton-Wolssex, and with natural courtesy the Queen extended a invitation to the Countess to stay at the Royal Palace at Dulwich. The Lord Commissioner of the Zadar-Istrian Islands, John Loder, 4th Baron Wakehurst, had told the Dowager Duchess of the gossip circulating the polite society of Zadarska of the charm and liberties of the Countess, and hoped that her mother could be induced to invite her to Dulwich for a time. This was quickly arranged, and the young Countess was enchanted with her imaginations of returning to Court life for a short while. The perfect manners of courtiers impressed Constance, who almost forgot them from being away for so long.

The Countess was becoming amused with her new surroundings, although her mother was finding her an irritation. She had come Zadarska, the capital of Zadar, and from leading life within the Court of the Lord Commissioner, who had been a dearest friend of the Dowager Duchess before his appointment as Lord Commissioner fifteen years ago.

Poor Constance, confided Lady Elizabeth Henrietta Macquarie, cousin of Charlotte and Constance, to the Dowager Duchess, she has had a very trying time arriving back in Engellex. First she was forced to ride through the streets in the terrible weather in a dress one would wear promenading in Zadarska, and she has been horribly taunted by the Sir Henry Dewent that her apartment in the palace is most gloomy, and certainly haunted. Lady Elizabeth shook her head in disagreement, Utter nonsense, of course, but I do believe the Quartermaster-General enjoyed putting her in the tired part of the palace. The Dowager Duchess looked concerned, this was not how she expected her daughter to be received, How dreadful! She replied. Constance is quite self-reliant it seems, I dare say brilliant. But she needs someone to - to confide in, and I hope she may be able to chose you, Elizabeth, Lady Elizabeth nodded. When she travels the country I shall go with her, we both shall be received at Court together, of course, she replied.

What the Dowager Duchess did not divulge to Lady Elizabeth was that she had spoken to her daughter, the Queen, and arranged for several discreet members of the Court to report on the character and ambitions of Constance. For she, as the mother of the Countess, was very anxious that a husband should be found for her loose daughter; and the fact was that she had actually invited Constance made to Dulwich so that she may be inspected intently. Queen Charlotte had become very critical and found may ghastly things about the ambitions and qualities of her sister living in Zadarska, but it was difficult as their mother continued to hold privilege over the future of Constance, even though Charlotte was Queen.

Lord Harvey writes to me from Zadarska that the Countess of Rothes is a charming beauty, said Charlotte privately to one of her Ladies, very carefully brought up by her clever mama - accomplished, healthy and beautiful, in fact everything that an ambitious young gentleman could desire. The young dandy Lord Harvey, who owned property in Zadarska, and who loved the Countess of Rothes for her energy and beauty devotedly, had asked of the Queen as to the occasion for the summoning of the Countess to Dulwich, stating, which Charlotte found confusing and odd, that he had the utmost confidence in the judgement of Constance in all her endeavours, and that he would be willing to justify this to the Queen if need be.

The Queen had developed a resentment to the affection between Constance and the Godless libertine followers of hers.

Later that evening the ministers observed the tension throughout the Royal Palace. The Dowager Duchess knew why. It was the women’s demonstrations to go ahead, the Second Frankish Empire (which she enjoyed terming the EDF), and of course the potential economic ruin of the region, she exaggerated in a whisper to the Home Secretary. Funny old Great Engellex will put on her most beautiful coat with all the gold braid and buttons and medals in Europe and march to war, joked the Dowager Duchess, implying that the Armed Forces are dated, and more a theatrical performance than a feared fighting force. The Field Marshal and War Secretary, the Duke of Rothermere, listened grudgingly to what her account of our military strength was, he certainly disagreed, and knew any and all imperfections would be addressed now.

In the privacy Blue Room Charlotte tried to conceal her anxiety even from her family. She tried to assess what would happen politically if the planned suffrage demonstrations transformed into violent confrontations. Also she feared for her Commonwealth of Cantigny. Great Engellex, a good old boy that will always stand with the Commonwealth, had no desire for a war in the Implaric Oceanic Territory, because it would leave the country vulnerable to cheap plundering of her wealth from the European Defence Federation. To imagine was now was an absolute tragedy.

It was bound to come sooner or later, said the Northern Secretary to the Queen. Imperial possessions has always been a source of anxiety to Cantigny. It has been boiling for decades. And now, of course, with this revolutionary republicanism in the Commonwealth, the Chancellor has seized this as an opportunity to attack the Anglysh position. The Queen nodded. The imperial rule of Bombaim, one of the largest cities in the region, and so close to the Commonwealth, was in itself provocative. The trouble was that while the elite of Bombaim were content to be under Anglysh imperial rule, the unheard masses were not. The Commonwealth understood this, so there was friction between Vesper and Winchester. If the European Defence Force should lose.. Began Charlotte. That is impossible, declared the War Secretary. It is all very well for you to be loyal to your wife, your Grace, said the Queen rather impatiently, his wife was from Franken, but what if the Commonwealth received help from the Accord states? Could the Commonwealth find victory up against that? Queen Charlotte could not bear to thing of the defeat of the Commonwealth, she was, after all, their Queen. It was a gloomy prospect. Let us pray then, she said, that this war shall not come to pass.

 

[Great Engellex]

MARRIAGE​

Great Wixmouth, Union of Great Engellex, 8th June 2011

Hammersmith, Vauxhall, Great Wixmouth, Baden, Duxford, Humberside, Wells and Engelwijk. Every significant military institution across the Union was visited and to be visited by the Queen, her ministers, and the Imperial General Staff, and everywhere the Queen went she made an excellent impression of the Crown commitment to the Armed Forces. Even at Great Wixmouth, where in view of past policy neglecting the welfare and conditions of the army there was a hint of hostility, the Queen managed to charm the regiments of the Royal Barracks of Addington. There was no doubt amongst the Queen’s political entourage that Charlotte had the right manner to grace such occasions and win the superficial affection of multitudes; everywhere she went she was greeted with enthusiasm. On a few locations, such as the Royal Naval Dockyard of Vauxhall, buildings were renamed in the Queen’s honour, and she was cheered everywhere.

Charlotte was even referred to as the Queen-Empress by the crowds, aspiring the moment to the glorious days of the Great Imperial Past, the Queen acknowledged the title privately as rather splendid, do you not believe? No one in the cabinet could deny that this tour of the Queen’s was an eminently successful and well-timed exercise, there was even suggestion to extending this to the military establishments of the territories abroad. But the social and political system of Great Engellex meant that the Queen was always on a potential edge of disaster. A whole ministry however was employed for the personal protection of the Royal Household and her ministers, allowing them all to skilfully avoid violent confrontations; but this could not always be expected, and many questioned an extension of this tour to the overseas territories.

There was a great deal in the affairs of the Zadar-Istrian Islands, the most significant overseas military location, to cause anxiety for the ministers. Several minor domestic difficulties had broken out between the Godless Revolutionaries of Zadar and the Imperial Officers of Zadar; the youngest son of the Lord Commissioner of Zadar-Istria was slain in a very cowardly way - he was shot many times while evacuating terrified civilians from the scene, he was Lieutenant of the Imperial Officers. Queen Charlotte detested war, but the War Secretary and Field Marshall the Duke of Rothermere pointed out that it was impossible to maintain an aspiring position of leading international affairs in possession of colonial territories without being continually engaged in minor conflicts, such as those in Zadar. Charlotte saw the point of that and the Duke of Rothermere made her fully aware of the growing influences of other empires in Europe. The Duke was not alone amongst the ministers or even parliament in liking to see the boundaries of Great Engellex grow wider.

We hope to see you at the head of the Preuti-Borussian community, he told her privately. It is absolutely necessary to the peace and well-being of the continent that you should be. Unfortunately the libertines of the Whig Party were of the opposite view. They went about parliament proceedings preaching peace, and the Queen was only too aware of the general approval given to these peaceful policies by the public.

The Queen, earlier in the week, had decided that her sister, the Countess of Rothes, should adhere to the wishes of her concerned ministers, who have been received with approval from the Dowager Duchess, while the Countess was still within Dulwich. Their greatest concern has been for the strength of the Crown within the Zadar-Istrian Islands and the Engellexic social structure exported to them. The Countess of Rothes was a frivolous young woman who indulged selfishly without consideration of the consequences upon the perception of the Queen in the territory, who is her sister. Constance was to be married, not yet decided was who the misfortunate husband would be, though it shall take place accordingly to the arrangements agreed upon by all parties; the Queen, the Dowager Duchess, and the ministers. It was suggested to Charlotte on Monday afternoon that her sister should be in receipt of an allowance from the Crown Chancelleries. The Queen was bemused as to why a trollop of aristocratic birth should be a recipient of the Queen’s purse.

Relation or not, the young woman has no profession or quality that could justify her name on the Crown Accounts, any allowance should come from the purse of the Duchy of Hountton-Wolssex, which the Queen was head of as the Duchess of Hountton-Wolssex, and not from the Crown. The affair caused Charlotte to become fretful. Her temper flared out at the slightest provocation, her mother, the Dowager Duchess, expressed reluctance to sometimes speak to her on fear of a verbal barrage. The affair played on the thoughts of the Queen as she knew too that it was her time for marriage, as many have put it before her. But whom should she marry? The answer from her ministers would be of royal breeding, one of the houses of Preuti-Borussia. Franken, Montelimar, Eiffelland, with the intent on bringing calm and reason back to the relations between the Union of Great Engellex and the European Defence Federation. Or even Arendaal or Suionia for economic and political purpose, as members of the Northern Council. Charlotte however would not wish her suitor to become a source of interference politically, the affairs of Great Engellex were for her ministers and her Queen to decide. The more the Queen pondered on marriage the more unsure she bcame. She sometimes did not think she wished to marry at all. But, she thought vehemently, I will not be hurried into marriage in any circumstances.

 

[Great Engellex]

MARRIAGE II​

Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex, 20th June 2011

A feud had been brewing within the palace, and the happiness the Queen had experienced during the Armed Forces National Tour had almost completely vanished upon returning to Dulwich. The Countess of Rothes was becoming more and more irritable and seemed to do everything possible to frustrate Charlotte. Their mother, the Dowager Duchess of Hountton-Wolssex, retained her daughter the Countess of Rothes in her company constantly, was over-compassionate to her situation of arranged marriage, and Charlotte suspected it was an effort to draw comparison to her own heartlessness to her sister’s situation. It was fast turning into a Court scandal that would have serious political consequences if it escaped the four walls of the palace. Charlotte even found herself touchy, snappy and being imperious to her own ministers. Of course the ministers evolved to overcome these moods, which were by no means unique to Charlotte, but were common place with the nations history of sovereigns.

She raged against the European Defence Federation, or rather, that odious Empire of Franks. Charlotte’s instincts were peaceful and neutral, much to the frustration of her ministers, but the foreign policy of the alliance was trying even on the Queen’s peaceful opinion. The boisterous members of the EDF had blown up the silly affairs of the Oceanic-Implaric Territory into a mighty international crisis, certainly ignorant to the potency of the communications from her own ministers; but Charlotte, as with the Establishment of Dulwich perceive that part of Europe as a right of Great Engellex to involve itself in, the EDF has no such right, and she refers to this escalating situation as that desperate act of imperialism.

During the days sitting of cabinet ministers, the Northern Secretary, Anthony Pelham-Holles, pondered throughout the session on whether he ought to bring the Zadar-Istrian Situation to the Queen’s attention yet. It was the 21st century and the Northern Secretary was uncertain as to how to proceed, seeing as this was a largely 19th century problem and the last thing needed for the Queen was an international outcry. Better perhaps to prepare the Queen and cabinet gradually. Colonial matters continue to try us sorely, your Majesty, he said. There are concerns looming in the Zadar-Istrian territory it would seem. Not appreciating his efforts to bring them gradually to the reality of the gravity of the territory’s problems, the Queen nodded. I am sure the department with you at its head will be able to handle any concerns, Mr. Pelham-Holles.

I have utmost confidence in that, your Majesty. There are, however, so many questions to be settled. There exists controversy over the enthusiastic efforts of the Imperial Officers. The prison is now overcrowded. Few constabularies are far from reasonable and they are placing the people into prison for the most trivial of offence. A Bill can be brought in to remedy this, I cannot say the Lord Commissioner will approve, even less the assembly of Zadar. Charlotte looked the Northern Secretary more closely. She had somewhat grasped the implication, the Northern Department had been trying to sell her for some time that the territory was on the brink of revolutionary disaster. Dulwich could not administer the medicine no more. The strength of Lord Commissioner, her government and assembly was growing, and that of Dulwich was diminishing fast, as with all the territories, it was natural. However, political forces of the extreme fringes were poised to stir up sentiment in order to seize the shoes of the Lord Commissioner.

Quite so, indeed, responded Charlotte. You say a Bill? It cannot be short of suspending the Zadar-Istrian Constitution, otherwise we shall be powerless to act, Mr. Pelham-Holles. The Northern Secretary agreed. How tiresome this affair shall be! Declared the Queen to the cabinet.

The Home Secretary, Charles Foster, shifted in his seat to draw in the attention of the cabinet, as the First Lord of the Cabinet it was his duty to direct attention to important state matters when needed. Your Majesty will forgive me for seeming impertinent. Charlotte avoided his eyes, marriage was not matter she wanted to indulge in with the cabinet. The Earl of Onslow, Charles Foster, was aware of her feelings, but marriage like the developing circumstance of EDF aggression against Cantigny had to be discussed. Marriage, she said. Exactly so, responded the Earl of Onslow. I do not find the subject a very agreeable one. The Earl nodded his understanding, Quite a number of subjects are so, but often when one gives them an airing and looks at them from various perspectives one grows accustomed to them. The Queen continued, as though he hadn’t spoken, And therefore should not be obliged to do what I do not wish, I am the Queen.

The Earl sat back and looked to the Duke of Rothermere, the War Secretary, for assistance. That is providing that the subject is outside the interest of the State, your Majesty, and this is a State matter. The Queen was thoughtful, I see that you think it is my duty. The ministers nodded. You know that my aunt the Grand Duchess of Wantage is pressing for me to marry the Crown Prince of Arendaal. She is planning to arrange a meeting of sorts.

And your mother? What does her Grace the Dowager Duchess feel about this? The Earl queried. I daresay her Grace would welcome a distraction from the present affairs of Court, though, I shall not defer the need of the Countess of Rothes’ marriage to Captain Tilney.

Your Majesty, you should be aware of the likely consequences of a State Marriage, and of one that should take place between yourself ma’am and the Crown Prince, the Duke of Rothermere added. And what should they be? The Queen asked. A nation in a fit of rejoice at the romance of their beloved Queen, displays that will set to reinforce your personality within the realms of Cantigny, Zadar-Istria, and the other territories. The War Secretary turned to Anthony Pelham-Holles, who added, consideration shall be seen to be given to the position of Great Engellex within Preuti-Borussia, more seriously, by the European Defence Federation, too. Stability and co-operation between the regional powers shall be redefined and strengthened.

On the evening of the 20th of June 2011

Charlotte, my dear! Roared the sumptuous, and rather large, Grand Duchess of Wantage, as she made her way into the Queen’s private apartments. Charlotte, who had been studying photos and letters from the Crown Prince of Arendaal was taken by surprise and launched to her feet. What do you think my dearest niece? Asked the Grand Duchess. He seems - most agreeable, indeed, said Charlotte. Cannot we be more enthusiastic? Look at those photographs I would certainly marry him myself! Laughed the Grand Duchess. Can you be sure that these declarations are genuine? He is quite a pleasant young man, but, I shouldn’t think of him like that dearest aunt! I am much too young! The Grand Duchess disagreed, after all a lot of effort went into arranging this match. Pleasant. Pleasant? Is that a way to talk Charlotte? My, I would have expected a show of interest even from you! He is charming!

Charlotte shied away from this confrontation, I thought you were certain of no political connections with this marriage. I - I couldn’t possibly decide, at least without seeing him. Curiously the Grand Duchess beamed with a wide smile, Of course! Me and your uncle will have sorted that, we shall arrange that in order to oversee the interests of the nation within Bantyr, that you shall personally lead the delegation! You can expect to find the Crown Prince there - regarder les - observing the difficulties in his country’s neighbour! The Queen span around quickly at the suggestion, if the Crown Prince is to be brought to me then I am to automatically be implicated to marriage with him?! What will his parents think?! The Grand Duchess remained silent, she had got this far without her pressure on Charlotte to marry the Crown Prince be uncovered, and she wasn’t to be uncovered now.

 

[Great Engellex]

THE STATE VISIT
DAVID VAN CORTENBACH, LORD-PROTECTOR​

Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex, 22nd of June 2011

When the Lord-Protector of Vistrasia, David van Cortenbach, and the Vistrasian delegation arrived in Dulwich for the State Visit, Charlotte noticed that there was less enthusiasm as thought for this wonderful occasion. Of course the Queen was a little solemn, there was much circulating the Court. She hadn’t been aware of this before, or was ignorant to it’s deterioration, but now she had the first-hand opportunity of meeting the Lord-Protector it was quite simply illuminating for the Queen on the present state of relations between Great Engellex and her eastern neighbour, Vistrasia.

They had many private conversations during which the Queen assumed back somewhat to the days when the Vistrasian Commonwealth was a close friend, during the early-mid 20th century, and how much the metropolis of Dulwich hopes to renew that value and respect they once held for each other. The conversations between the two heads of state had taken place in the Blauwezaal, the room the Queen reserves for important state metters, usually with her Lords of the Cabinet, and therefore should be regarded as her favourite room. It was a vast room, conservatively decorated, though with blues and gold gilt. During the talks with David van Cortenbach the Queen expressed her admiration for the Lord-Protector, Charlotte was, however, disappointed to find that the Vistrasians lack of enthusiasm was reflected in their agreements on offer, no doubt the conservative and strong head of Great Engellex intimidated the more social-liberal inclined feeling of the Commonwealth, she thought.

Charlotte went on to say that she hoped the friendship between Great Engellex and Vistrasia would become a source of envy in Preuti-Borussia (Gallia-Germania). I cannot imagine it otherwise, she said, trouble is developing on the continent and the support of Vistrasia may be necessary to us. She thought it wise not to go further, allow the Lord-Protector to ponder her meaning.

The Duke and Duchess of Rothermere joined the Queen and her guests at the palace that evening. She liked the Duke, the War Secretary and Field Marshal, and of course the Duke of Rothermere had a great deal to say with the Lord-Protector. After all, the War Office will be looking to increase the number of regiments from the Duchy of Westmooreland, which borders Vistrasia. The Duke of Rothermere was a Great, the Queen had introduced to the Lord-Protector; he had raised the matter of Army welfare greatly since he joined my cabinet, she said. The evenings occasion was a marvel, that was because there wre so many people present. The Queen would have liked more dances, unfortunately there were so few people who were considered worthy dancers, and the Lord-Protector was difficult to persuade.

What a triumphant day she thought, the review of the guards at Dulwich with the Lord-Protector, on horseback! There was a little tussle with the Northern Secretary about this, he declared that it was against protocol for an inspection with a foreign head of state to proceed on horseback, but the Queen largely ignored the Northern Secretary usually, and found David van Cortenbach a good sport. On his last day he shall Great Engellex by Hammersmith following a review of the fleet at the naval port; a fitting send off, would you not agree, your Grace? She asked the Duke of Rotheremere.

Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex, 24th June 2011

Charlotte was tense and apprehensive. The thought of marriage frightened her. Why, she demanded of her mother, did everything need to change? The Queen longing back to that first year where she crowned everything was so pleasant and, most importantly, her ministers fully obeyed her. Nothing stands still, my child, the Dowager Duchess reminded her. Her ladies whispered amongst Court, that this change had been considerable on the Queen who once was so considerate to them, and now nothing they could do seemed right for her. Even the Grand Duke of Wantage displeased her. Understanding her better than many in her family and realising that it was the fear of marriage that made her so irritable, he sought to soothe her. He wanted her to realise, and his wife the Grand Duchess too, that there was absolutely no need to consider marriage a necessity at this stage. He wanted to bring her into a peaceful state of mind. All you have to do is inspect that young man, and if you shall not warm to him, you can - well, send him packing! Laughed the Grand Duke.

Charlotte was aware of this and was afraid of marriage; yet she wanted to marry.

 

[Great Engellex]

THE TRADE DELEGATION

THE PRESIDENT AND THE CROWN PRINCE​

Republic of Bantyr, 4th July 2011

Queen Charlotte was not feeling very happy as her carriage carried herself, the Dowager Duchess, and the Grand Duchess of Wantage towards the dock in Hammersmith where she was to board H.E.M.S. Sovereign to Bantyr. In fact only the company of her minister, the President of the Board of Public Trade, who did not rest in his brief to the Queen on what they hoped to achieve by way of trade agreements in Bangleann.

Charlotte was reserved by nature and she hated all the preparation and fuss which had gone into finding a suitable husband for the Queen of Great Engellex. Her aunt the Grand Duchess, who forced herself upon family affairs, was determined on this match. She had already succeeded in marrying her own children into the royal houses of Great Engellex, and in Preuti-Borrusia, but nothing, she continued to say, was as important to her as to see her niece united with the charming Prince of Arendaal. That was very well, Charlotte thought to herself, but she was the Queen of Great Engellex and Soren could only be her consort, which she did not feel to be a very dignified position to a Crown Prince. Little did Charlotte know, but her aunt and uncle had been trying to bring about a definite answer to the question of Soren’s place at Court, but the Queen’s ministers were reluctant to confirm anything without the Queen’s knowledge.

The Queen was now on her way to meet the fate her family had engineered for her. The sea was quite rough considering the time of year, she was a good sailor, so the sight of her mother laying sick and wretched calling for a doctor and asking herself why she had come seemed such a theatrical display. Though Charlotte did long for the Royal Palace in Dulwich where she would be absorbed in political affairs, international, or Court intrigue, anything but this, she thought. The heavy seas pounded against the steel bearing of Sovereign, which was being escorted to Bantyr by a squadron of naval vessels from the Royal Engellexic Navy. On the morning of the 4th July Charlotte awoke guessing that she would come to regard this as the most important in her life.

Charlotte strolled along the deck of Sovereign with her mother and aunt, originally discussing Bantyr, but changed the subject to Soren. The rest of the day passed slowly and excellently. The Queen and the President of Bantyr had many engagements to organise great mutual interest, which Charlotte reiterated her determination not to see Bantyr and Great Engellex divided but united within Preuti-Borussia. The trade delegation was going exceptionally well, in the course of the day thirteen memorandums of understanding had been signed between the two heads of state in the fields of economy and trade. An Economic-Industrial Commission had been established to facilitate the better cooperation between the two countries for the benefit of the economic, scientific and technological fields, the first convening of this commission will take place later in the year between the concerned ministers of each country. An Industrial Partnership Committee had also been founded to oversee the expansion of industry from mutual investment in both countries. There were many things being agreed and signed in Bantyr, including an agreement to see trade between the two nations double to $20 billion by 2016, with the President of the Board of Public Trade overseeing the signing of agreements between individual companies.

It was, however, eight o’clock, and the Grand Duchess informed the Queen that the Crown Prince was on his way to Sovereign for the evening with the Queen. His Highness is approaching now, M’am, said her aunt rather formally. I shall give a ball to him – and the President, but even the prospect of a ball gives me little pleasure that will surpass this anxiety, Charlotte replied. She had planned how she would receive him. Charlotte would stand at the top of the Grand Staircase and watch him ascend. She was in a regal mood, and agreed to herself that Soren must understand from the first that she was the Queen of Great Engellex. And at the top of the stairs she waited.

There was the Crown Prince, and her heart began to beat fiercely that she found it almost difficult to breath through her tightly fastened gown. He was mounting the stairs, she knew his face at once, for she saw many photos. This was the charming Crown Prince. He was certainly the most beautiful being she had ever beheld in any Court of Preuti-Borussia, and to think, she considered other lesser princes! Soren, she said and held out her hand for him to take, and as soon as her touched her hand and lifted those beautiful eyes to hers she knew. Every little bit of resentment had disappeared, she was incredibly relieved and happy. It would be correct to believe the Queen was in love.

 

[Great Engellex]

OF THE REALM

THE BOARD OF THE IMPERIAL GENERAL STAFF SET-UP SHOP​

Royal Palace at Dulwich, Great Engellex, 10th July 2011

Life had changed suddenly for the Queen. It had become greatly more serious. The Royal Palace at Dulwich appeared to be invaded by an army of Generals and Ladys. More time will be devoted to the attention of the defence my realm, said Charlotte to her frustrated mother. Preuti-Borussia was no longer a continent of peace – at least her eastern and southern neighbours weren’t, and the Implaric-Oceanic Territory was fast descending into a conflict. Charlotte always had to explain the importance of her political duty to her mother, the Dowager Duchess of Hountton-Wolssex. She herself had almost entirely avoided the difficulties of engaging with the political headaches of the nation. Charlotte had her new Board of the Imperial General Staff there, with the War Secretary and Field Marshal, the First Lord of the Admiralty too. Now was the time, as it had been postponed for far too long, that the Queen was required to devote her attention to the preparedness of Great Engellex for whatever role she might be called upon to play in the Great Scheme of things by Providence.

The King of Walssex-Battent called at the Royal Palace with his morganatic wife, the Queen Consort of Walssex-Battent. The King was wholesome and hearty, a very friendly man; the Queen Consort was much less so. Large – she and the King were both very fat – she sprawled on a sofa and assessed the contents of the room; very clean but not an expression of grandeur rightfully deserved of an aspiring Power. The Queen Consort looked at the glittering rings on her fingers and the gazed somewhat contemptuously at the single silver-diamond bracelet of Queen Charlotte. It was clear that this occasion represented the two different sides of the Union’s royalty; one side politically engaged and dutiful to work, the other socially and duty bound to maintain the excellence of the class system. What I have come to say is this. The Palace of Battent ought to be the sole and official residence of the Monarch of Great Engellex. What would you say to establishing a far more splendid and capable residence at my former palace?

Why yes, agreed Charlotte. It would be most wonderful to have Battent as the residence, I shall command my ministers to make immediate arrangements? The King nodded, You may indeed.

Before the Queen’s scheduled meeting with her ministers, the First Lord of the Cabinet, Earl Foster, held the cabinet at his residence shortly before their departure. Well gentlemen! I am happy to say we have done it. Her Majesty has finally been moved to consider our national interest in respect of the Frankish vassals – and why not? Her Majesty’s understanding rests solely on the advancement of their ambitions; in Preuti-Borussia, and in the south. And I hope gentlemen we all will be willing to afford her Majesty every effort of the cabinet in respect of her needed leadership; the Queen will certainly need it. The War Secretary reminded Earl Foster of their interest in the visit of the Holy See, What can we expect of her Majesty in regards to the Holy See and Solaren? The Earl looked back blankly, Nothing yet, it should be understood that not even her Majesty was able to anticipate the intentions of the Holy See in that theatre; we must seek to uncover what intrigue lies there!

____________
​

The trouble is M’am, we lack the present capabilities to fully support a prolonged defence of your Majesty’s realm. It must be understood that the recommendations of your Majesty’s Imperial General Staff will need to be dutifully enacted to ensure the independence and prosperity of your subjects, M’am. The Queen eventually conceded with a nod, I daresay your Grace. But I want it absolutely certain that the estimates be calculated precisely; as it can be seen already, we will be in need of necessary improvements to the aircraft, and it will be such a sum indeed. I am quite divided on the necessity for further regiments, shall our eastern neighbour not be alarmed? I thoroughly enjoyed the Lord-Protector’s time here and will not want to alienate him from my Court, your Grace. The Duke of Rothermere, the War Secretary and Field Marshal agreed, Indeed so your Majesty, indeed. But we must look beyond our immediate neighbours, the Court of Franken has quite the sum of vassals in Preuti-Borussia. More so across the seas, M’am.

I daresay. Which brings me to a point of great interest to the State, responded the Queen. Oh, your Majesty? Raised was the interest of the Earl Foster. Yes, Lord Foster. I am to propose an engagement to his Royal Highness the Crown Prince upon his visit here; And with the implications of this marriage with the other Royal Houses of Europe, I am not particularly sure as to what course of action I should take in their respect. I am sure you understand me in this, the Crown Prince is the nephew of the King of Franken, as well the King of Anglyn. The War Secretary, the Duke of Rothermere was most qualified for advising the Queen on her concern, he pondered for a moment, understanding that this wasn’t at all clear due to the nations relationship with these two particular states. I should strongly advise, you Majesty, that you host an occasion upon his Royal Highness’s visit that would recognise your acknowledgement of the implications this would have on the Royal Houses of Europe. Most specifically, I would suggest inviting the heir apparent of Franken and Anglyn, in consideration of their positions.

That does sound most agreeable, thank you indeed your Grace! Thanked the Queen. Your Majesty is most gracious, bowed the Duke. You should also be familiar, your Majesty, with the intention of your ministers to put through a Bill in Parliament to proclaim your Majesty Queen-Empress of Great Engellex upon your marriage to the Crown Prince. Charlotte thought about it and then smiled, Queen-Empress, well your Grace I won’t pretend I am not pleased. I have thought for some time that the title should be resumed, there are Kings in Europe that call themselves Emperor for FAR less reasons!

 

[Great Engellex]

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THE QUEEN-EMPRESS WALTZ

AMBASSADORS AND BALLROOM DIPLOMACY​

Royal Palace at Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex, 11 July 2011

The Queen and her Court had taken a great fancy to the magnificence of the Royal Palace, although dowdy, apparently. It was Charlotte’s pleasure to invite with her friends, family and all manner of politicians and politicos from across Europe to pass a very grand gay time or so in this royal residence which had never performed to quite the same style as it did with Charlotte by past monarchs. Perhaps, she said with a glee, this was what I like so much about here. It seemed at other residences that amongst the splendour one cannot truly delight for you are always reminded so painstakingly that your predecessors would not approve of the ballroom diplomacy. It was quite her style. The Dowager Duchess loved it too; there she can be very happy indeed. She took the utmost pleasure in arranging occasions. The Queen’s male acquaintances would go and shoot and then return for lavish banquets, gay parties, and most importantly elegant balls. There was much dancing, drinking and gambling within the four walls of the Royal Palace. To-night was no different.

Charlotte had organised a ball for the diplomatic corps at the Royal Palace, a subtle attempt to reassure the diplomatic ministers of foreign governments, particularly the European Defence Federation, that Great Engellex was committed to peace and to hopefully help her argument in persuading them to join Great Engellex in pursuing for peace. Over five hundred Lord, Ladies and gentlemen waltzed away to the

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, a composer from Walssex-Battent. Being here at Dulwich is such a relief, Sir Anthony, such a holiday for us. Have you visited Lorraine? Asked the wife of the ambassador of Lorraine to the Northern Secretary. Alas, I am afraid I haven’t, he responded, almost losing his footing. Oh dear, well, I love it of course – how could I do otherwise, for the sake of my beloved husband I must say anything! And they both laughed, but my dearest complains the Court here in Dulwich is so stiff, so formal, so – what’s the word? Protocol – Oh, how I hate that word! He complains that he suffocates with protocol, Sir Anthony, but Lorraine is so unfashionable, you wouldn’t believe..

You dance as gracefully as ever, of course! The Earl of Hountton, the Queen’s brother, complimented to the Frankish ambassador’s wife. Thank you. And as beautiful, he added charmingly. Your Royal Highness always knows how to compliment a lady, she replied. I mean it, Elisa. She smiled, I daresay. The pair danced passed the Dowager Duchess of Hountton-Wolssex, who was sitting out the dance. She is beautiful isn’t she? Lady Elisa Clarissa of Franken – Oh! Ha! Look at poor Constance trying to aid the Bantyric Ambassador with the dance! She chortled with the other mature ladies. One, two, three! One, two, three! One, two thee! Constance and the Bantyric ambassador went. That’s better! We will make a dancer out of you yet! The Countess praised His Excellency. I am afraid I am not skilled for this sort of thing, he quipped. Oh, nonsense. You are doing it very nicely! Of course, you come from a republic, I quite understand your ailment Sir!

I see Lord Hountton (the Earl) is at his usual station, observed the ambassador of Cantigny. What do you make of him? The First Lord of the Admiralty, the Crown Prince of Walssex-Battent, looked surprised at the Cannie’s query, he seems a good fellow at his job, very loyal to the Queen.. And Lady Elisa? Interrupted the Cannie Ambassador. If you are suggesting what I believe you are, my dear fellow, you are barking up the wrong tree. The Earl is far too straight laced for anything like that, it is very honourable, I assure you. You know the Countess of Crowborough is rather pretty. The Cannie agreed, Yes – I am going to have a smoke, are you coming? - Oh? Oh yes, good idea. They both escaped the occasion into a quiet library off the State Ball room. Your Grace! Proclaimed the Cannie, to the Grand Duke of Wantage. Good evening Sir Wrexham. Good evening your Royal Highness, responded a rather surprised fat old man. Not dancing then your Grace? Continued the ambassador. I am afraid these old legs are not quite so nimble as they used to be, the Grand Duke joked. I must congratulate you your Grace on a splendid success in mustering more troops! Naturally the Crown Prince was pleased to see recruiting going so well in the southern, border regions, particularly Wantage when you consider the its pacifist tradition. How many have you managed? Queried Owen Wrexham. Enough, I fancy, enough, shied the Grand Duke. Two thousand overall, do not be taken in my dear fellow, the Grand Duke is delighted with the success as we all are, and at a good time, reassured the Crown Prince.

Her Majesty is in good form to-night, I believe the Queen will continue into the early hours with her ballroom diplomacy, suggested the Crown Prince. Oh dear, sighed the Grand Duke. What’s the matter your Grace, do you not like a good party? Have a drink! Invited the Cannie to his Grace’s approval. The Anglysh seem to be enjoying themselves, they agreed. I hope so, after all it is why we are here, added the Crown Prince. Oh, yes. This is all in their honour you know. You remember that slight disagreement in the south? Bombaim and Tangaloa, well the Queen intends to rectify it. The Cannie ambassador dismissed the understating of the affair. The Anglysh government is badly advised, assuming their regional interest can take precedence over Cantigny, the Queen will soon put a stop to it, the Grand Duke added. I daresay, and this is her Majesty’s way of healing the breach. What is that about our Queen? You taking my name in vain Henry (Crown Prince)? Entered Queen Charlotte. The Crown Prince was just explaining to me M’am your reason for inviting us all here to-night, stupidly I hadn’t realised this ball was in their honour, responded Owen Wrexham. Indeed, well, I cannot sit idle while Europe descends into anarchy. Oh, I am exhausted – what a day. Exclaimed Charlotte as she collapsed, with dignity, on to a sofa.

They shelved the formalities to discuss the successes and failures, gossip too of the ball that evening. Charlotte leaving the Lords and gentlemen confident with their trust in the Queen to handle the nation's affairs, it proved to be a slight success.

 

[Great Engellex]

DEFENCE OF THE REALM

PREUTI-BORUSSIA DESCENDS INTO WAR
​

Royal Palace at Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex, 12 July

The news grew worse. The Solaren military was attacking southern Lorraine. News came that Lorraine, where the European Defence Federation had mobilized a substantial force to invade Solaren, was being attacked by missiles and chemical agents. The Parliament in Dulwich demanded that the position of the Federation in provoking this attack and the use of chemical weapons by Solaren should be investigated by an international body, the Queen’s ministers refused to consider such a course of action presently, that this turn of events requires more practical handling. The Home Secretary, the War Secretary, the First Lord of the Admiralty, and the Northern Secretary all came to see the Queen at the palace. The European Defence Federation are power crazy, said the War Secretary, the Field Marshal, Duke of Rothermere. They won’t stop at Torrence; they’ll march on and crush Solaren, to seize the Long Sea. This cannot be allowed M’am. The First Lord of the Admiralty interjected to the Queen’s dismay, the Navy should be sent to the Long Sea. Charlotte stared at him, I should never consent, it would be tantamount to declaring war on the Federation. The Home Secretary shifted, which might do that rather blown-up alliance some good, he responded. Oh, how she disliked men and their wars, Charlotte was absolute believer in neutrality.

We have to consider what is best for Great Engellex, M’am, the War Secretary reminded her. War is never good for any country, retorted Charlotte. The ministers exchanged glances. We must mobilize, for the sake of your people, M’am. Charlotte conceded with a wave. The Queen was horrified; she could visualise the nations of Europe being dragged into a hopeless war. The Northern Secretary, while deciding it was better for the Federation and Solarens to work this matter out for themselves kept an anxious eye on the Implaric-Oceanic Territory. He took the opportunity later in the day to warn the Anglysh ambassador in Dulwich that if their fleet threatened the integrity of the Commonwealth, they would find the Royal Engellexic Navy at their doorstep.

In the palace the Grand Duke slammed his palm against the table, no – your Majesty must not. The Queen resentful at the position she has been placed was compelled to defend the decision, this is only a mobilization, with the purpose of being prepared, it is not against the Federation, the Solaris or anyone else. Her uncle was dismissive, if Great Engellex mobilizes – Mon Dieu! there will be a war, after all the people of Wantage strongly desired peace in the region. Solaren is shelling Lorraine, and with chemicals, we must be prepared to defend ourselves. I am to decree for prayers to be said in every church and cathedral; but now, if you will excuse your Grace, I must see my ministers for arms and further recruitment. Meanwhile the royal palace was experiencing a tide of activity, generals and officers, the Imperial General Staff, they were all at the palace preparing many state rooms for the organisation of possible war. To ease this, the Queen temporarily moved her Court to the Palace of Battent, so herself and ministers can make full use of the palace without interruption. A war room had been established, with a giant map spanning an even greater table; the map was of Europe. Yes, some wonderful news, came walking in the Northern Secretary. A telegram from Torrence, precisely what we needed, to reassure us that Solaren would only ever act to support our interests in Preuti-Borussia. The Queen nodded, I did believe we could rely on Torrence to not drag us in, you see – signed with the seal of Pope Urban.

Due respect to your belief in religious principles, your Majesty. The Pope of Torrence is a deceitful megalomaniac; if he is offering to support this country, then it is time to pray. The Queen and the Northern Secretary shifted uncomfortably at the Grand Duke’s verdict. The Federation wants to humiliate us, bellowed the Duke of Rothermere down the table, we must show them we can be firm. We need this mobilization or her Majesty will be outmanoeuvred. The Queen looked grimly across the table, if we mobilize then the entirety of the Federation will have to. Her uncle rose abruptly to his feet, and Vistrasia, and Breotonia, everyone! And nobody will be able to stop. Charlotte turned to Sir Anthony Pelham-Holles, send a dispatch to the King of Franken, informing him that in despite of ourselves together mobilized it will not mean necessarily that we must fight. Nothing will dismantle our pursuance for peace.

They won’t last a week; we will bury the Federation’s army and secure the freedom of Preuti-Borussia before the fall. That was the testament of General Sir Rupert Vernon Anson, Viscount of Hamilton to the staff around the map. The Field Marshal marched into the room, seizing the atmosphere and their attention, General Anson, inform the staff that the situation has improved greatly, I will brief them fully in half an hour. The General hesitated before questioning the duke, but shouldn’t we continue to prepare for the mobilization? He pondered for a moment, stroking his bearded chin; I will brief them in half an hour. We have six hundred fifty thousand men in uniform, and soon we will have seven hundred fifty thousand men in uniform, even with the considerations of estimated wounded and killed we still will field a large army. They cannot beat that, reassured another to the assembled generals.

The War Room descended into cries of cheer as the generals recognised the success of the Queen’s instructions work their way through the system of the Engellexic Armed Forces, bringing the country’s military to attention and cementing this achievement at the bottom of many empty bottles of champagne. By mid-night the party was over – and the departments responsible for the nation’s handling of diplomacy soon went into overdrive.

 

[Great Engellex]

DEFENCE OF THE REALM II.​

THE REALM OBSERVES THE ESCALATION​

Royal Palace at Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex, 12 July 2011

The telephone rings. The Royal Page’s Office, the Royal Palace. Ah, your Grace – indeed, I see. I shall inform her Majesty at once. The gentleman ends the call and stretches across the palace for the State Apartments, for the Queen. M’am, he knocks delicately, M’am. Rather faintly, as it was a late hour, Charlotte responds, yes, what is it? It was his Grace, M’am, the Secretary of War on the telephone. He suggests it is most urgent, M’am, and your person is certainly needed in the War Room. I daresay, I will be right with them – can you direct Lady Glenrothes to my chambers, I require her assistance.

The generals, admirals and air marshals clicked their heels and stood to attention as Charlotte entered the War Room. Unlike public appearances, the Queen’s costume was less than usual and more practical, it even included a skirt. Good Morning my Lords and Gentlemen, and in an almost precise timing the room reciprocated the well wishes back to her Majesty. Placing herself at the bottom of the map of Europe, Charlotte observed the various intricacies and gatherings of intelligence attached to the map, what has been a cause of concern for us? The War Secretary, as Field Marshal, stepped forward and began gesticulating to the regions within Lorraine and Solaren. Over these regions of their border – it is presently believed that the scale of the strike was limited to military formations and personnel. Charlotte frustrated over this information, and studied the reports before her closely, can you be quite certain? That we are, M’am. The use of chemicals is to be ascertained, however. Charlotte nodded, is there more? – there does not appear to be any intelligence on the Federation’s response? The generals agreed, indeed, M’am, we are experiencing difficulties with intelligence operatives, though further deployments through Montelimar are being observed, anything gained shall of course be relayed in a jiffy.

M’am, it should be understood that this was unexpected, we do not believe this was anticipated. The Queen exchanged an expression of concern with the War Secretary, you mean to tell me your Grace that the Federation did NOT give considerations of a possible pre-emptive strike? It doesn’t appear so, M’am. Charlotte was dismissive, what we know and what we are certain of is that this happened, I will need less focus on semantic distinctions and more on how this was perpetrated with our surprise. I will need contact to be made, the Commonwealth, I cannot imagine how Vesper would be delighted at an international endorsement of the Federation’s actions. Recommendations? The Chief of the Air Staff responded to the Queen, highlighting areas on the map in coordination of his suggests, surgical strikes upon the naval ports would cease the escalation for an extended period of time. If they retaliate? Queried the First Lord of the Admiralty. It will be regretted was the short answer. Have the sentries and sentinels in the air your Grace. I need the progression from this strike monitored; further decisions will be taken with greater intelligence.

Thank you, M’am, and the Queen left the War Room.

There was no end to the troubles of the Royal Palace. Life was becoming difficult and even more so an irritation. Charlotte was set on marrying the Crown Prince of Arendaal, and her ministers were now not in like of the idea of this match with Arendaal. Charlotte knew that they were not in favour of it because the Crown Prince’s uncles included the King of Franken, the King of Anglyn and also of Montelimar, and the aggression of the European Defence Federation put a much of this kind on a concerned footing. It was all so distressing and what sort of husband would Soren make this young and powerful woman after the kind of sheltered life he had led? Charlotte, however, was set on the marriage, and negotiations with the Aren Royal Family were by now well ahead so she supposed she had better form her proposal of marriage to the Crown Prince In accordance with the Engellexic customs, the Queen would invite representatives of the reigning royal houses of Preuti-Borussia to Dulwich so that there will be royally acknowledged witness to the proceedings of her proposal.

The Queen invited the reigning heirs to the various houses of Preuti-Borussia to come to Dulwich for the royal occasion. Soon Charlotte was deliberating with her ministers that alliance with Arendaal was a good thing because it might have the excellent effect of the dissolution to tension with the European Defence Federation. I hope you will lead a different life now you are about to be married, the Dowager Duchess told the Queen. It would never do to be on such terms with the transgressions of international politics, as I know you choose to be. Charlotte was rather silent, refusing to discuss her positions and opinions of her foreign policy, which had always been considered patchy at best, for it seemed hardly likely that this approach would change.

 

[Großlausitz]

The Prince Regent’s Offices
Königsburg, Nürnberg
Franken

Despite the uproar in and around Solaren, the intelligence about Solaris Cult supporters conspiring to commit vicious bomb attacks the Prince Regent was determined to take a short break from this treadmill of looniness every now and then. Even if that meant chuckling about the creative output of two very extremist faction of his realm, it would give him some mental ease from the stress. One of his browser windows showed a piece of extreme royalist propaganda, retrieved via the forum of the Guglmänner, who were somewhere between a traditional wake at royal funerals and useful idiots. You could see several knights in shining armour, whose helmets bore royal and grand ducal coronets, their shields showing the EDF states’ coats of arms, their swords drawn and crossed. Of course the kingly knight representing Franken looked the most majestic. “Oh boy,” Prinzregent Jakob sighed and laughed. In the top corner, not too far away, you could see a devil wearing mock papal regalia. The reaction by the not-so-very-royalist and anti-statist fringe of Franken’s internet community was swift and equal in bizarreness: They showed a bunch of old guys wearing rusty armoury trying to squash a small hedgehog.

“If only the reality was less absurd, Peter,” the Prince Regent gestured towards the Ministerpresident, who had been summoned for an informal talk. Jakob von Franken had adopted his father’s practice to grant most heads of government the privilege of first name address during private conversations. “You’re so very right, Jakob. On the one hand we have an absolute nutcase bothering our business in Central Europe, a legitimate papacy trying to interfere with our legitimate affairs, “ Graf Peter Solms observed. “On the other hand we have Engellex, whose elite claims to be the European forerunner of liberal government but they are still dominated by the idea dynastic marriages mean more than strengthening friendly relations. Engellex’ leaders still have to learn today’s monarchs’ exercise their power less obviously, “ the Prinzregent added.

“Last but not least, we can demonstrate to them that two can play that game they enjoy so much. Your house has been guiding the fate of Franken for several centuries; amongst your direct ancestor we have emperors and empresses. The House of Knýtling-Babenberg may lack an imperial title since the independence of the empire of Greater Vangala, yet your kingly title is well-founded. The very same goes for the other courts of our allies. If they wanted anything from us, we would have every pretext to kindly invite their queen to pay a visit to the kings and duly accredited representatives in Nürnberg or Emyn Arnen. If we need a more neutral spot.”​

 

[Great Engellex]

DEFENCE OF THE REALM III.
A STRATEGY FOR DEALING WITH A POTENTIAL CRISIS​

Royal Palace at Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex, 29 July 2011

No sooner was the Bantyric trade visit over than there was trouble and the Queen feared that she was losing the confidence of her people. Charlotte was concerned about the lethargic approach by Parliament to the need of political reform in the country and the increasing series of riots which are occurring because of this and proposed, privately, to raise prospect of achievement by flooding the House of Lords with pro-reform men and women. The idea was swiftly defeated by her ministers because of the possibility of mass defection of Lords and members from the Pitt Party. It was most tiresome that with the trade visit just over and her future family planning needing to take a moment of priority, this crisis had to arise. The Queen was very angry. She had been briefed that a prominent wife of a peer, the Countess of Ely, had placed herself at the head of the radical suffragette rebels. It was understood she was clearly angry because of the failure of Parliament to recognise the interest of the people.

Charlotte sympathised with her cause, oh, if only people would be patriotic and think of the country rather than their own ambitions. The Earl of Ely will be called to the Royal Palace where they would discuss the matter, and see if a dismissal of the Countess from Court could be avoided. This crisis would not be over any time soon, with possibility for a grand escalation, before another had found itself upon Charlotte. This time it was with the Northern Council who, were quietly angry because of the free trade agreement with Bantyr, have been less inclined to meet the hope of establishing an equally strong free trade agreement between Great Engellex and the NC member states, this was evident in the recent Vistrasian state visit. The Northern Council will be prevailed upon to retract their reservations and Sir Pelham-Holles, the Northern Secretary, with the Queen will attempt to bring about more friendly relations with the NC.

The Dowager Duchess came marching into the palace chamber where a concertino was established to provide evening music for the Queen and her guests. Charlotte you must go back, she said. The Queen was pacing this chamber, frustrated, No! Two footmen closed the doors allowing Charlotte and her mother more privacy from the main party in the adjoining room. And what shall I tell your guests? The Dowager asked. Tell them I have work to see to, the Queen responded abruptly. I can’t – they shall be insulted! Charlotte paced the room before receiving a brandy, I shall not be affected to care. Him being not my guest, nor my family, nor heir to the coronet of Middlesex gives him the right to be abhor. Alfred is being particularly insufferable. The Dowager Duchess turned down a settlement of tea by a concerned and dutiful footman, and appealed to her daughter’s manners, Charlotte please do not be difficult, you mustn’t break up the party. The Queen turned around so quickly that her mother fretted that she would collapse from being dizzy; Party?! It is not a party! It is a lecture – an instruction for my rule by an arrogant libertine who believes that just because he is the heir to Middlesex does not give anyone the right to contradict him!

You see my friends I have made a most thorough study of the whole matter, and though the Second Frankish Empire maybe the largest in Europe, it is also the most undermined. We, I fear it, will be making the same grand mistake. The Queen’s dominions are granted too much freedom! The Marquess of Zetland, heir to Middlesex, stated to an audience of bored Lords and Ladies. In due respect, Sir, that is because they are dominions and not colonies, replied tiredly the Earl of Onslow the Home Secretary. Exactly! That is something I should not tolerate! Launched the Marquess, with a firm finger in the air. But then again the Queen, my dearest cousin, is in the hands of her ministerial officials who advise appeasement toward the Frankish Empire, when in fact they should be receiving their orders directly from the Crown! The Earl of Onslow, a minister of the Queen, reminded the Marquess that it was the democratic system. Such reason was dismissed; it is madness, Lord Onslow. Appeasement is one step from defeat. The attention was quickly stolen from the adolescent Marquess as those who found themselves unfortunately clustered around him stood to curtsey to the Queen. Charlotte returned, after persistent persuasion.

Please – please. I hope I haven’t missed anything interesting. Many of the Lords and Ladies ushered around the Queen, Lord Zetland was just explaining to us our lack of influence over the recent affairs of the continent, the Earl of Onslow informed the Queen. Ah! It is perfectly simple. They know we are not to be expected to fight, Charlotte answered confidently. After all, the Queen saw it beneficial to the national reputation, and especially the economy, that Great Engellex will not be so easily persuaded to involve itself directly in every conflict in Europe. Very true, cousin Charlotte! The Marquess replied, rather rudely. Great Engellex never expects to have to fight. Your armies are chronically under-represented in history’s wars, and there is no reason to engage in new ones, he continued sarcastically. Yet we contrive to be prepared for them, Sir, responded the War Secretary, the Duke of Rothermere. Only from your inability to ignore the people that you do not accept the logicality of defeat to the Frankish Empire, he remarked harshly. Defeat?! Queried an angered Viscount Ellington, Marshall of the Royal Engellexic Air Force. Charlotte moved across the room, cutting the tension between the two, and sat down. Forgive me, my dearest cousin, I myself did not quite understand what you meant?
The Marquess accepted the Queen’s confusion and began to explain. Well, take this war on the continent, the Frankish Empire has ignited a war to expand her borders with no consideration for our national regard. Charlotte nodded, yes – but we haven’t accepted that. He agreed with her, Precisely. Fortunately for you, I influenced my father the Duke to recognise the need to form a contingency for regional strategy which he has and persuaded yourself to form a contingency, which you have. The War Secretary questioned what contingency he was referring to. The plan of campaign that the army shall follow for when we will need to protect our borders and interests, I sent it to my father – who sent it to you, I am sure. Many glances were shared across the room, it was certainly uncomfortable to witness, especially since the Queen would of course correct him. I seem to remember, Lord Zetland, that the War Council considered your advice impractical and far too costly. Though, we have indeed made preparations for a campaign should we be induced to take a direct involvement.

War, war, war! Smiled the Dowager Duchess as she seized the attention of the room. This talk of war is so terribly tiresome, there is an orchestra playing perfectly delightful music out there and I have been longing to dance for the last hour. Perhaps my handsome nephew? She asked turning to the Marquess. You only have to beckon aunt Catherine, it is not every day one can dance the polka with the mother of a Queen-Empress, he curtsied to the Queen following his compliment and then joined with the Dowager Duchess for the adjoining room. The majority of the Queen’s guests followed the pair for the polka, leaving Charlotte with her ministers who ushered around her. I’ve just realised something, she remarked, I absolutely despise them. An affront to the prestige of this realm.

[[OOC: By Polka, I refer to Thunder and Lightning by Strauss. ]]

 

[Great Engellex]

DEFENCE OF THE REALM IV
QUEEN CHARLOTTE, THE ADMIRALTY AND POSSIBILITIES​

Royal Palace at Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex, 2 August 2011

It should be a most disturbing year, the Queen decided. That odious Frankish Empire, she would often now say, was showing itself to be fiercely militant and that the leadership of the European Defence Federation was determined to carry out their policy of blood and even more blood. I am certainly in full agreement, there most definitely is a great plan in motion here, she remarked to the War Secretary at the latest developments of that alliance in Solaren. The perceived plan was to amalgamate the free states of the continent with Franken at their head, not through democracy but with force of arms. In the Implaric-Oceanic Territory her Commonwealth had squabbled with her uncivilised neighbours over the direction of regional policy, and it would appear war is to officially break out, possibly.

The Queen hated the thought of war, though before she would disliked more the petty cause for war, but lately she has found the actions of regional-minor realms to be an absolute insult to the position and regard of her realms. War once was distressing to contemplate for Charlotte and now she saw the necessity of reminding others, from time to time, of their place within Europe and how not to go above their station in the established scheme of things. The Queen was finally aroused at last from her pacifism. She felt strongly for poor little Solaren who was faced with ultimate destruction against Europe’s brute. The Northern Secretary was commanded to attend her Majesty’s summons at the Royal Palace, her concerns on the matter were swiftly and thoroughly conveyed, where she instructed Sir Anthony Pelham-Holles to make arrangements for the dispatching of medical personnel and medicines for the people of Solaren in need of this aid.

One by one the small realms and republics of Preuti-Borussia would fall before the might of Frankish Empire, this was what is believed in the political halls of Great Engellex. War was so devastating, particularly when put kingdom against kingdom, in a world where kingdoms ought to be united at the front against republics. It was a great relief, thought Charlotte, to see her generals working tirelessly to ensure Queen and Country remained independent of the Frankish tyranny. The First Lord of the Admiralty, along with the Board of the Admiralty, had been at the Royal Palace all morning deliberating with the Queen and the War Secretary on naval operations. The location of Great Engellex in Europe was one of the most difficult for the need of a defensive naval strategy. While it has a restricted and limited coastline, though not as narrow as Montelimar, but certainly compared to Solaren, the imperial metropolis was considered exposed to possible enemy landings. It was on the eastern edge of an island. Fortunately the need to use the navy’s largest, and few, helicopter carriers for air support was unnecessary due to the vast air cover that fields on the island and mainland can provide for Dulwich. The imperial metropolis was not a maritime city, yes it can be accessed by the sea, but the strong political and geographic position of Hammersmith has maintained that shipping activity within the capital was limited to coal barges. This allowed for the considerations of mining the approach to the river Twent, which ran through the capital.

H.E.M.S. Warspite, H.E.M.S. Ardent, H.E.M.S. Charger, and H.E.M.S. Havock were E.E Class destroyer of the navy that have been commanded by the Admiralty high command to advance from positions of previous deployment in Zadar-Istria and Wightland for the Hessex Bight. Warspite and Havock would eventually observe positions due west of Fecamp, the estimations for commencement of the secondary phase of that operation will be 20:00 on August 2nd. H.E.M.S. Rigorous will be joining those two destroyers at those positions, who along with H.E.M.S. Redgauntlet and H.E.M.S. Restless of the 2nd Frigate Flotilla are also due to Home Waters. Redgaunlet, Restless, Ardent and Charger will assume patrols west of the Union’s continental territory. The available surface ships of the 3rd Destroyer Flotilla and the 3rd Frigate Flotilla, with the navy’s carriers, are being pressed to form a carrier battle group to follow engagements that could emerge in the Implaric-Oceanic Territory. The First Lord of the Admiralty wished to discuss the possibilities of using one of the Queen’s royal liners for a more rapid transport of a commando force to Zadar-Istria to join the battle group. The benefit of having three vast ships in personal service of the Crown was the flexibility of their use.

The War Secretary, and Field Marshall, the Duke of Rothermere was obedient in fulfilling the Queen’s instructions to distract against the Royal Engellexic Air Force’s readiness for any possibility of engagement south of the border – or from the west, by publicizing the Army’s deployments. Marshal of the Royal Engellexic Air Force Sir Edward Leonard Ellington, Viscount Ellington, had been in continuous audience with the Queen for two weeks. The air force was conducting extensive logistical operations in Great Engellex, fortunately due to the lack of development of the nation’s private aviation industry there was very little private air traffic obstacle to the mass reorganising of the Armed Force’s air arm. Charlotte was no mere hereditary monarch, she was first and foremost a capable and intelligent politician who held numerous positions in the House of Lords before occupying the throne, so she understood the necessity for discretion and distraction with mobilization even though defensively. The private and war aviation infrastructure was extensively intertwined in Great Engellex. For the reason of expenditure and potential political capital against a future enemy, a worthy number of civil airports maintained facilities that the air force occupied or could occupy in a time of war, owned by the Ministry of War. It is a strategy intended to minimise the loss to infrastructure, personnel and assets against an air campaign in time of war. It also allowed the R.E.A.F. Regiments to focus needed protection on more vital areas of command. The R.E.A.F. had made preparations for this, with aerial reconnaissance and early warning patrols already in place along the southern and coastal regions. Little military activity was detected in the areas of concern.

Despite the relief of the preparations, Charlotte was uneasy. She believed the King of Franken should have spared the continent all of this tension and anxiety, spared Preuti-Borussia of the imperialist ambitions of a greedy empire of Franks. Great Engellex would have been more settled if their expansionist schemes targeted lesser continents. The Queen’s Ministers understood more than most of Charlotte’s reluctance to assume a military leadership, they were always cautious and wise in their presentations, it was always the Defence of your Majesty’s Realm. While the Queen exhausted the energy of her Northern Secretary with diplomatic exchanges, the Armed Forces did make full use of their time. The First Lord of the Admiralty confirmed for Charlotte that the navy had indeed, as of the beginning of the week, started two mine laying operations west of Engellex; the purpose was to limit the ability of Anglyn to escalate any crisis that should emerge. It was a difficult operation, they almost lost H.E.M.S. Connaught who struck a mine that was previously laid. Her keel was shattered and she almost sunk, fortunately the theatrics of this remain unreported – it would have been a national embarrassment of great proportions.

With each week, more and more regiments of the designated Armies were closing on their assigned positions of defence along the borders. Armoured units from the VIII Corps will be conducting aggressive patrols along the border between Montelimar, Hessex, Walssex-Battent and Rothermere. Analysing these defence operations, the Field Marshall acknowledged reservations others had to the suggestion of reducing artillery cover in Middlesex and Westmooreland for greater focus in Hessex and Wantage. Despite the great lack of possibilities along our northern and eastern borders, artillery and anti-air should not be reduced to a skeleton force. The War Secretary assured the Queen, with the conclusion of August the 5th, the best of your Army’s murderers and thieves will be positioned along the defensive lines of Wantage, about twenty-three kilometres from the border. Other armoured and mechanized units will be positioned appropriately by the day before. The Horse Grenadier Guards are positioned in southern Walssex-Battent and Hessex. These units are deployed for the need of a potential counterattack. For needed referencing the Army will have fourteen infantry divisions in the south, as well as eight armoured divisions, it will be the conclusive result of a period of a General Mobilization.

 

[Great Engellex]

DEFENCE OF THE REALM V
COWARDLY ATTEMPTS AT LIFE THE COUNTRY MOVES TO WAR​

Royal Palace at Dulwich, Union of Great Engellex, 4 August 2011

It was a beautiful Wednesday in August and the Queen and the King of Walssex-Battent were returning to Battent Palace from the Royal Palace to make inspections to the proceeding works in progress to transform the residence into one suitable for the Queen-Empress. Crowds lined the avenue to see them pass; the Queen’s popularity, despite the crowds, was becoming increasingly divided in a country gripped with the fever of political reform. The King, though very fat, was looking quite handsome in uniform, was sat beside her nodding to the cheers. The people seem very pleased with you, Charlotte, he said. They certainly seem to, the Queen replied, turning to bow to the waving crowds on her left. The King turned to army officer sitting in the carriage with them, Did you hear that? Charlotte, smiling and waving, responded to them both, what was that?
I may have been mistaken, went the King, but I am quite certain I heard someone shout something rather hateful. No one seems to have noticed anything. Charlotte reached for the hand of the King and gripped it formly. Can you see anything? She asked the officer. Nothing unusual, m’am. If it was someone planning to take aim they may still be in the crowds. I advise you remain as though nothing has happened. I shall be watchful, the officer advised. They were all relieved when they reached the palace. It must have been a mistake, continued Charlotte as they moved through Battent.

In the afternoon the War Secretary, the First Lord of the Admiralty, and the Chief Commissioner of the Constabulary of the Imperial Household called at the palace. We have some disturbing news your Majesty, said the War Secretary to the Queen. A lady by the name Cecilia Kirk has told the constabulary that while she was in the crowd along the avenue she saw a man who was standing close to her lift a pistol and point it at the carriage. He did not apparently fire. It was heard that he was muttering a foreign language unknown to the lady. Turning pale, Queen Charlotte turned to the War Secretary, I must tell you, your Grace, the King (of Walssex-Battent) heard this man. He informed me and the officer at the time, I thought that he was mistaken. He nodded with the Queen, this is no mistake, and I think every precaution will have to be taken, for this man may make the attempt again. A long discussion followed, Charlotte was very alarmed, and angry. She had arranged another evening of ballroom dancing for the diplomatic corps, and declared that should would not be put off by a disturbed coward.

Over seven hundred guests of the diplomatic presence in Dulwich had been invited to the ball that evening. It was hastily arranged that very morning, fortunately a monarch such as that of Great Engellex possesses the authority and influence to organise something so grand an affair at an incredibly short notice. The occasion was, though not officially, was to mark the admission of the Breotish ambassador into the higher circles of Court, and the descent of others; the Anglysh ambassador was not invited, along with that of Guiana and Khalistan. They were all engaged in the flurry of ballroom dancing, fully adorned in Court dress, and having a gay old time in her Majesty’s honour. The Queen, though usually the most keen for the dance, was instead resigned to stalking the footways of the ballroom, with an assortment of ministers, for the purpose of conversing with a list of particular people that were invited. The evening, though a joy, was definitely one of diplomatic business. You always ensure every ball you host is a personal triumph, your Majesty, complimented the First Lord of the Admiralty, the Crown Prince of Walssex-Battent. Yes, indeed. Though this year shall certainly be marked as a national triumph, she humorously remarked to the Crown Prince, though with a hint of seriousness. Why aren’t you dancing? The Queen queried the wife of the Touzen ambassador. Because I am afraid I have not been asked, m’am, she responded jokingly. Well, whatever should happen for the next dance, I look forward to seeing you all on floor! The Queen approached the Southern Secretary, I have commanded the Touzen ambassador’s wife to dance – please see to that Peel. Thank you, she smiled.

Ah, I see the Queen is making her rounds, observed the Vistrasian ambassador. And she has the young Crown Prince of Walssex-Battent with her, that is most unusual, the Suionian ambassador continued with his wife disagreeing. Not really, in many ways they are more like siblings, she remarked. I would agree, the Queen recognises the same expectations of a youthful character, the Vistrasian nodded. The ambassador of Wendmark approached the trio, And I suppose she believes walking around the ballroom will help? The Vistrasian scoffed at his ignorance, it is the Queen’s style. She prefers to catch them off guard and dissect what they are truly thinking! The Suionian ambassador’s wife blushed at the focus of the Vistrasian, Oh-ha-ha-har! Charlotte directed herself to the Frankish ambassador and his partner, the Montelimarian, Now then ambassador! They both curtsied to the Queen, a most enjoyable ball, your Majesty, the Frankish gentleman complimented. Charlotte turned to the Crown Prince, with a mock expression of surprise, if that is the case why are you both looking so solemn? I’ve been talking to the Breotish ambassador, Lord Watton, apparently his government is particularly pleased with the terms of the naval understanding between us. The Frankish ambassador remarked how the terms of that understanding have not yet been made known outside the Breotish and Engellexic government circles, and how they would prefer that the terms were made public. The Federation has so long been our natural antagonist that public relations must be conditioned in our favour, not to mention other quarters.. replied the Queen. By other quarters you presume to mean your dominions? Smartly remarked the Montelimarian. Charlotte smiled, indeed, and resumed her round of the ball.

So, that is most of the diplomats – now where is the Secretary of War? Charlotte asked, spinning around to glance across the state ballroom. Shall I bring him to you, m’am? Queried the Crown Prince, the Queen nodded and thanked him. Another opportunity of disciplined dancing was struck up by the orchestra. Ah, your Grace! Sorry I didn’t grant an audience earlier to-day. The War Secretary bowed his head, I was quite disappointed myself, m’am. She smiled, you are not such a dancing man then, your Grace? Well, never mind. No, I called on you because I am concerned of this political trouble with the suffragettes, I trust the strategy you proposed to me earlier in the season is still viable to be taken? There seems to be just a very short step to be taken and these mild violent demonstrations will be found to be revolutions. The Duke of Rothermere agreed with the Queen, we are in a position to move should your Majesty request it, I speak from being passionate of the plight of the minor states of the continent, m’am, these are times of change both nationally and internationally, it is easy to be radical but what this continent needs is a Power of common sense. Charlotte proceeded to walk, with the duke following, I will keep that in mind.

While the two day carrier battle group formation development scheduled seemed originally to be a good idea, it was quickly realised a wasteful use of resources, and so implementation was cancelled. As Wednesday had progressed, the Admiralty with the Chiefs of the Imperial General Staff pressed for the implementation of a carrier battle group capable of engaging operations on the continent, as opposed to the Implaric-Oceanic Territory. Admirals and air commanders barely had enough time, since that decision, to plan the logistics for this to happen. The 3rd Destroyer Flotilla and the 3rd Frigate Flotilla had been reassigned to enter Home Waters, as part of an escort of H.E.M.S. Indefatigable, the flag ship, and H.E.M.S. Belliqueux, they would be travelling through the Long Sea with Engellexic diplomats in the cities of participating nations declaring Great Engellex to be a neutral party to the Solaren War. Even so, the Admiralty will be engaging with naval fleets in the Long Sea to convey the intentions of the group as simply passing through for the Great Sea. The Queen had arranged for a Commission of Admirals to secure service rights for the Royal Engellexic Navy in Bantyr; H.E.M.S. Belliqueux will be continuing her journey to Bantyr for a refitting to allow her to assume the role of an aircraft carrier.

That late evening, the Engellexic command had received orders from the Chief of the Imperial General Staff. They knew the nervous disposition of the Queen to the political development at home and in the region had been profound in persuading her to succumb to the Chiefs of Staff’s advice on tackling the European Defence Federation. The Great Engellexic Army had been frantically repositioning units for the next 48 hours. The mechanized and armoured divisions of the army had been moved into advancing positions along the south-western border, and blocking positions along the east. The infantry divisions in southern Westmooreland had begun fortifications, such as wiring and dug outs. The divisions in Wantage and Grafton extended the defensive line north to Westmooreland, the commanders in the east hope that these units in position will stop any counter advance into eastern Great Engellex, long enough for the sweep east.

 

[Great Engellex]

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DEFENCE OF THE REALM VI
THE GLORIOUS SIXTH THE IMPERIAL STRIKE PART ONE​

Palace of Roxburgh, Kingdom of Walssex-Battent, Great Engellex, 6 August 2011

The Queen had not yet arrived, her journey was tiresome due to the many small engagements that were needed to be done officially before she could arrive at the Queen of Walssex-Battent’s ball as the guest of honour. Despite an awaited presence of her Engellexic Majesty the occasion had begun. It was a ball hosted in the Queen’s honour to pay respect to the two thousand officers of the army, navy and air force who were invited. The Palace of Roxburgh was impressive in size, a medieval palace, not much left, though the Great Hall still stands and with full use to it. Due to the nature of the ball, and the chief guests in attendance, much of ballroom etiquette had been discarded for this one occasion. This was mostly to allow aristocratic daughters to freely dance with the officers. The hall was alive, it roared with a wonderfully blended military and aristocratic spirit. The officers of the Rothesay Guards danced their sword dance with many difficult knots and turns. The ladies were quite captivated by this demonstration of Engellexic military tradition, the officers of the army wore kilts and performed in groups of four around their ceremonial swords. There were also bagpipes, many bagpipe performers for this occasion too. General Tilney (General Sir Charles Tilney, Baron Tilney) has paraded the entire Rothesay Guards for my honour, he did so this afternoon, the Queen of Walssex-Battent remarked to her son, the First Lord of the Admiralty, the Crown Prince of Walssex-Battent. They both shared a polite grin, understanding that General Tilney did so in hope of impressing upon the Queen. Realising the dancing, and of course the bagpipes, had ceased, the royals – and everyone else, turned their attention to the grand ornate entrance to the hall. It was fashioned with every sort of decent decoration, from flowers to national and regimental flags.

So suddenly did the dancing and bagpipes stop, that the marching of the drums commenced for the

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, which is used unofficially for military occasions with a Queen Regnant. This of course pertained to the entrance of her Engellexic Majesty, the Queen. Charlotte’s entrance was more of a procession with herself at its lead, she was followed by the War Secretary and the others of the Imperial General Staff, the Board of the Admiralty, and the Board of the Air Staff. Queen Lavinia of Walssex-Battent proceeded toward Charlotte to welcome her, an aisle formed by the guests allowed the two Queens to command the moment with a level of grandeur not equalled in any part of Europe anymore. They were literally dripping with diamonds. You certainly are the most accomplished of my Ladies, Charlotte humoured softly. Well, we must surely do what we can for the drum, referring to the Army, this season, I am sure, soldiers will be the fashion, Lavinia continued. The Queen-Consort signalled to the orchestra and a piece of soft ballroom music was struck up. Before the midnight of the 6th of August, while the Lords and Ladies waltzed away to the finery of Great Engellexic culture, the wheels had been set in motion for the most audacious air attack in Engellexic military history. Destroyers of the 1st Destroyer Flotilla and submarines of the First Submarine Squadron carrying tomahawk missiles were in their assigned launch positions. E-3 Sentry (AWACS) aircraft were flying in two surveillance tracks just south of the Hessex/Walssex-Battent/Montelimarian border. Tankers were orbiting north of the AWACS, just out of range of early warning radar. Fixed wing and rotary aircraft were being readied for battle.

The rain thrashed against the windows as the young Ladies and officers stepped to the rhythm of the orchestra, the Queen-Empress assembled in a corner with her top brass, she observed Queen Lavinia twirling across the hall in the arms of General Tilney, it was quite a sight she thought. Three infantry regiments from the XII and XXX Corps were concentrated along the Hessex border and lightly dispersed along the south-western border of Walssex-Battent in small, fast moving units. These units were mounted in armoured personnel carriers and the Land Rover TUM. These forward units will be deployed to signal advance warning of a Montelimarian counter offensive, forward infantry units were also deployed to the borders of Rothermere, Westmooreland, Grafton and Wantage for the same purpose of an enemy advance. Farther east the forces positioned there were for counterattacks against a Montelimarian advance. Eleven surface warships and six submarines moved against the sovereignty of Montelimar in the far south of the Hessex Bite, and even to the west of Fecamp. Hundreds of aircraft were being readied for war. August the 6th heralded the culmination of months of military build-up; deployments, planning, and importantly the end of the Queen-Empress’ patience. Montelimar, on the other hand, had assumed no such actions would be taken by Great Engellex - until now, and because of that, no mobilization against the border with Engellex had been conducted to be assumed by command to oppose Engellexic attack.

O P E R A T I O N : G R E A T - S I X T H ​

At 00:00 on the 6th, two dozen Avro Vulcans from the No. 24 Bomber Group started taking off from airbases located within the heart of Walssex-Battent. These aircraft would leader an assault deep into western Montelimar. Within an hour, over two hundred attack aircraft began taking off from airbases over southern and central Engellex. At 01:25 H.E.M.S. Warspite started launching tomahawk cruise missiles to join other tomahawks being launched from the H.E.M.S. Havock west of Fecamp. The missiles were planned to be the first to penetrate Montelimar’s airspace, and reach their targets in concert with the rest of the initial attack. From a base in south-west Rothermere four squadrons, consisting of five Westland WAH-64 helicopters and one AgustaWestland AW101 helicopter, took off at 01.00. Each helicopter was armed with hellfire missiles, CRV7 rockets, and 1,156 rounds of 30mm ammunition. The AugustaWetlands accompanied the WAH-64 to provide GPS navigation, additional electronic measures, and rescue capability. The objectives of these four squadrons were early warning radar facilities in Western-Northern Montelimar. The helicopters approached their objectives at high speed, acquired their targets at the maximum range of their sensors, locked on with lasers, and advanced on the objectives. Within range the WAH-64s ripple-launched their missiles, at 01:42 the first missiles struck their targets like a thunderbolt from the skies. In total one hundred missiles were fired, their targets were the facilities’ electric power generators, radar antennas, operational centres, and barracks. With the missiles depleted the helicopters sprayed the immediate area with rockets and thousands of rounds of cannon fire. Twenty F-16As from the No. 3 Squadron streaked into Montelimar behind the helicopter squadrons and attacked the regional air defence command and control, the strategy was to create a dead radar area in north-west Montelimar.

The Avro Vulcans within moments from the F-16As attack bombed radar centres located near the major cities of northern and western Montelimar, including the city of Fecamp, they were intended to extend the zone of dead radar eastwards. The main air attack then commenced. Swarms of readied attack aircraft then swept through the north and toward their designations. Tornado ECR’s led the charge, using electronic combat systems to attack communications airwaves and disrupt radio. Following the Tornados ninety-six F-4 Phantom_IIs from the No. 6 Group and forty F-16As from the No. 1 Group darted into Montelimar, into their area designations, and engaged any and all enemy aircraft. The air initial air strategy was to blind the enemy by knocking out their radar with the bombers, helicopters and tomahawk missiles, then to disrupt remaining radar with ECM capabilities: next was to attack from high altitudes the enemy aircraft and eliminate it as best as possible. Queen Charlotte, the War Secretary and the First Lord of the Admiralty marched out of the celebrations at precisely 00:30, they re-assembled in an adjoining hall where the several generals were awaiting to deliver the present motion of the air attack.

 

[Great Engellex]

DEFENCE OF THE REALM VI
THE GLORIOUS SIXTH THE IMPERIAL STRIKE PART TWO​

Over the skies of Montelimar, 6 August 2011

Prior to the Continental War, nothing was truly understood by foreign powers to the capabilities of Great Engellex. It had become casual humour within the high circles of the Diplomatic Corps in Dulwich that the Establishment would be too engaged in a season of dancing and gambling to order the Engellexic Armed Forces across any border. The air defences over the major military and civil cities of Great Engellex were primed for attempts of retaliatory air attacks by Montelimar and the Federation. The ZSU23-4 radar guided anti-aircraft artillery guns were trained at altitudes at seven thousand feet and lower, the Oerlikon 35 mm twin cannon supported the anti-air defences for ranges between seven and thirteen thousand feet. Surface to air missiles were concentrated on striking aircraft at higher altitudes. The air defences of the First Engellexic Army were focused heavily on the industrial cities of Went, and most importantly, the imperial metropolis of Dulwich. The strength of this coverage provided confidence for the continued indulgence of perhaps Europe’s most ostentatious aristocratic establishment.

The Montelimarian radars that were not destroyed in the initial air assault were bombarded with an extensive electronic attack, the enemy aircraft too. The majority of Engellexic attack aircraft were fitted with their own ECM pods for additional protection, this would be proven vital against the SAM attacks that will ensue against the Royal Engellexic Air Force. Activating AAA and SAM radars would be the desired action the Engellexic command was hopeful of Montelimar, as these radars would be immediately locked by aircraft and High Speed Anti-Radiation Missiles (HARMs) launched to destroy them. SAM suppression was a key priority for the opening moment, it was a contingent of Enemy Air Defence Suppression (EADS), which also included military airfields. The enemy command would eventually, who knows? Be aware of the attack. At 02:31 10 Avros from the No. 78 Squadron of the No. 10 Bomber Group flew over central-western Montelimar and dropped cluster bombs over air fields, they were soon joined by forty F-16As of the No. 5 and 6 Squadrons of the No. 1 Group which darted over runways at more than five hundred miles per hour and dropped JP-233 runway attack weapons across western-northern-central Montelimar. Forty other aircraft from the No. 27 and 29 Squadrons of the No. 5 Group, F-16s streaked in at low level and attacked runways and anti-aircraft batteries in the central region at 02:55. As the first wave of this air attack, which was launched against North-Western-Central regions of Montelimar, returned to rearm and refuel, six squadrons, consisting of four Westland WAH-64 helicopters and one AgustaWestland AW101 helicopter, took off at 04:00 and supported by twenty-four F-4G Phantom IIs from the No. 89 Squadron and twelve F-16s from the No. 101 Squadron. They would be conducting similar objectives to the helicopter squadrons that were originally launched into the western regions, the goal was to extend the suppression of enemy air defence in eastern Montelimar, though the second phase consisted of a larger area of suppression with more squadrons, and most importantly the heavy support of attack aircraft. This would be the longest and most aggressive air strike conducted by the Royal Engellexic Air Force, lasting twenty-eight hours, wave after wave darted into Montelimar as the ferocity of the air assult continued around the clock.

In this first night, between two and three hundred Engellexic attack aircraft flew missions, with an estimated seventy to eighty tomahawk missiles launched against the more heavily defended targets; nearly four million pounds of ordnance was dropped on targets throughout Montelimar. The losses sustained within the first twelve hours were low, the enemy was not mobilized, and suspicion of the IMPERIAL STRIKE was not until the day before the GLORIOUS SIXTH. Seven F-16s and two F-4 Phantom IIs were lost conducting attacks against airfields in central and eastern Montelimar. One Westland WAH-64 helicopter was downed by an SAM missile while operating in the east. The first pilot to have lost his life was Flight Lieutenant Oliver T. Williams, of Tootenham, and was also the first Engellexic Crown Subject to lose his life in the Great Continental War.

The Queen was in jubilation. War! The Queen-Empress was the leader of the moment. The eyes of Europe will soon all be upon her. She was a strong leader, not afraid to state her views, to offend the Frankish Empire and its vassals, nor make sacrifices in the popularity of her office. The people will be convinced that Charlotte is the personification of the IMPERIAL MIGHT and SPLENDOUR of Great Engellex. She no longer despaired at war, there instead was thirst, almost, for the glory of her realm and was absolutely convinced that this war was the only action possible in the circumstances. The European Defence Federation will become the villain. That odious alliance was responsible for the ills of Europe. The Establishment of Dulwich were enthusiastic for the war. It was a demonstration that Great Engellex was not prepared to stand idle while the Federation dismantled the Freedom and Liberty of the sovereign states of Preuti-Borussia. The Queen marched down a corridor in Roxburgh, the War Secretary had just been with a call from the Grand Duke of Wantage, she was eager to hear what he had to say, so he is gone? The Duke of Rothermere, he has – he was rattling his sabre a little! Charlotte scoffed at such cheek, he approves of the European Defence Federation sending their armies against Solaren? Well, this country is not in approval. It is most certainly not up to the Federation to reconstruct Preuti-Borussia!