April 30th, 1938.
At the Royal Palace of Triesenberg. Emperor Triesenberg
General Wilhelm Krieger was standing in front of the ornate door of the Emperor's office. He signaled to the guards who were standing on either side, and they promptly opened the door. The general took a deep breath, straightened his uniform, and stepped inside.
He found the Emperor seated behind a large mahogany desk, seemingly sifting through a stack of papers. The room was quiet, with only the soft rustling of the documents breaking the silence. The Emperor looked up as General Krieger entered, his expression serious but calm.
"General Krieger," the Emperor greeted, his tone neutral. "What news do you bring?"
Wilhelm Krieger marched forward, stopping in front of the desk. He saluted crisply before speaking.
"It's about the developing events in the Black Continent, where a country called Valoria has appeared out of thin air. His Highness, Theodore, has made contact with the Matalebe Tribes, who have been cooperative. They have sealed an alliance."
"What is his plan?"
"According to the telegram, they wanted the Matalebe Tribes to mount an offensive at the capital of Zambesi. They have assumed that the Kingdom of Zambesi has struck a mutual agreement with the country of Valoria and would help the Zambesi in case of domestic terrorism. That way, we would be able to find out Valoria's military capabilities through Matalebe.
The Prince is also requesting military equipment, funds, and manpower."
The Emperor leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful as he absorbed General Krieger's words.
"So, Theodore intends to use the Matalebe as a proxy to provoke a response from Valoria. A bold move, but also a dangerous one. If Valoria's military capabilities are as advanced as we suspect, this could escalate quickly."
General Krieger nodded. "Yes, Your Majesty. Prince Theodore is fully aware of the risks, but he believes that this is the best way to assess Valoria's strengths without directly engaging them. The Matalebe will serve as the first line, and depending on the outcome, we can adjust our strategy accordingly."
The Emperor remained silent for a moment, his gaze distant as he considered the implications. "And what of the request for military equipment, funds, and manpower? Does he specify what he requires?"
"Yes, Your Majesty," Krieger replied. "The Prince is requesting a significant amount of modern weaponry—rifles, machine guns, artillery, and ammunition. He also asks for a detachment of seasoned officers to oversee the training of the Matalebe forces. Additionally, he needs financial support to secure the loyalty of the Matalebe leaders and ensure that the operation proceeds smoothly."
The Emperor drummed his fingers on the desk, a habit he had developed over years of making weighty decisions.
"So my son had made a deal with the Matalebe Tribes, which are negros, whom we have seen a lesser race and made them look like we are equal…"
"Yes, Your Majesty," Krieger finally responded. "It is true that the Matalebe are not of our race, and traditionally, we have seen them as beneath us. However, Prince Theodore's strategy appears to be rooted in pragmatism. He sees them as a means to an end—a tool to gauge Valoria's strength without directly risking our own forces."
The Emperor's expression remained stern, but there was a flicker of something in his eyes—perhaps recognition of the necessity of such an alliance, however distasteful it might be to him.
"Pragmatism is indeed a virtue in these uncertain times," the Emperor said slowly, "but we must not forget who we are and the values we uphold. Aligning ourselves with the Matalebe in this manner must be done carefully. They should never be allowed to forget their place."
General Krieger nodded, understanding the Emperor's underlying message. "Of course, Your Majesty. We will ensure that the Matalebe understand that this alliance is one of convenience, not equality. The officers we send will be instructed to maintain strict discipline and reinforce our superiority at every opportunity."
The Emperor seemed somewhat placated by this, though his face remained hard. "Very well. Authorize the transfer of the requested military equipment and funds."
"Yes, Your Majesty," Krieger replied, saluting again. "I will see to it personally."
The Emperor nodded, dismissing the General with a wave of his hand. "Keep me informed of any developments, General. This situation with Valoria is precarious, and we must be prepared for any eventuality."
"As you command, Your Majesty," Krieger said before turning on his heel and exiting the room."
***
Five days later, in Votswana, Commander Kagiso returned to the palace where Prince Theodore and his officers were stationed.
Kagiso walked straight to the office where Prince Theodore was waiting. The prince, flanked by his officers, looked up as Kagiso entered, a calm yet expectant look on his face.
"So, Commander Kagiso," Prince Theodore began, his voice steady, "what has your council decided?"
Kagiso took a deep breath, standing tall as he delivered the message. "The council has agreed to your terms, Your Highness. We will accept the alliance and the support of the Empire. The Matalebe will stand with you."
A flicker of satisfaction crossed Prince Theodore's face. "Excellent," he said, leaning back in his chair. "You've made a wise decision, Commander. This alliance will ensure the survival of your people and the downfall of your oppressor."
Prince Theodore's satisfaction deepened as he observed Kagiso's resolute expression. "With the council's agreement, we can move forward swiftly. The first shipment of weapons and supplies will arrive within days. Your warriors will receive the finest training our officers can provide."
Kagiso nodded, though his gaze remained cautious. "We appreciate the support, Your Highness. My people have endured much, and this alliance offers a chance to reclaim what was lost."
Theodore leaned forward, his tone growing more intense. "It's not just about reclaiming, Commander. It's about reshaping the future. Zambesi's grip on this region has lasted too long. Now, all you have to do is follow our lead. You will attack on the date where we told you to."
"I understand," Kagiso acknowledged and in his mind, he was already elated at the prospect of overthrowing the Zambesi's government and establishing a new one where the Matelebe Tribes would lead. For him, this is the moment, the year, and the time to end the tyranny of Zambesi's government.