In the Shadows of the Magnolias

[Moshel-Generał]

The sun had just set over the Ozywilev plantation, and the pleasant breeze brought with it the sweet scent of the magnolia trees. Inside the manor the meal had just finished and all parties had retired to the large drawing room for drinks and a smoke. However this was not just any social gathering, this was a gathering of the elite of the colony, a group of people who could control just about anything. The first to note were the hosts, Kasia and Lukasz Ozywilev, the most powerful couple in the entire colony. They were the largest and most powerful Włanakhal, controlling a large amount of the arable land on the main island. The second member of note was their former head of security and a current officer in the garrison forces, Anka Vonderruhe. The most surprising member to those not in the know was the journalist Norkalyn Ganav, who in actuality worked as a spy for the Ozywilevs. The final member was perhaps the least surprising, Talia Czajka, the current head of security for the Ozywilevs.

As Lukasz took a sip from his cup Kasia would lean back in her chair, holding a lit cigar. “It’s official, the Governor-General will retire after the conclusion of the election back in Lusatia.” She grinned and puffed the cigar. “Apparently we Włanakhal are too much hassle to deal with.”

Norkalyn would let out a chuckle, her tail flicking. “That’s a compliment in and of itself I feel.” She raised her glass in a mock salute to Lukasz, who grinned and returned the gesture.

Anka meanwhile was tapping her foot, her ears twitching, betraying her anticipation. “So what is the plan? The new government is going to want to appoint his replacement.”

“That’s where your superior Ser Kradok comes in. He recommends you as the replacement and then Norkalyn here writes a few puff pieces in the newspapers and the government should think of it as a good idea.” Kasia paused to take a puff of her cigar.

Anka would nod. “Understood. I’ll speak with the Admiral about this.”

As the conversation continued, the shadows grew longer outside the manor. The sweet scent of the magnolias mingled with the smoke from their cigars, creating a heady atmosphere. They continued to talk late into the night, growing quieter as the hours passed. Outside the moon cast long shadows across the plantation grounds. Eventually the meeting came to an end and they each headed their separate ways. The Ozywilevs to their bed and the others to their respective homes. As they dispersed the only sounds besides the rhythmic creaking of the carriage wheels were the rustling of leaves in the wind and the trill of insects. As the night grew ever deeper soon the only thing that remained was the sweet scent of magnolias, lingering on the breeze like a promise of things to come.

[Moshel-Generał]

Ser Kradok sat smoking a cigar in his office, writing boring reports for the Governor General. He sighed and leaned back in his chair, a little annoyed. He put down the cigar and drank some of the rum. At least life had improved since his “exile” from the homeland. Arguing with your superiors did not earn you any favors, however once he had accepted that going “home” was likely impossible he found himself accepted into the colonial community. His first experience with the islands was, like many Lusatians assigned there, awful. The many amenities one could expect back home were for the most part, nonexistent. Ser Kradok had a small advantage over the average government appointee, he had nothing left back in Lusatia. He had no family, no house, his life was the navy. So when he arrived in Wyspy HaZoria he arrived with everything he owned, and left nothing behind.

His first introduction to island life was when the Governor-General at the time abruptly resigned, claiming that the local elite were just too annoying to bother working with. As such he was temporarily the highest ranking Lusatian official on the islands and had to meet with the colonial politicians, who were more than willing to make his acquaintance. After a few weeks he had met all the important people, and several unimportant ones as well. While many “bribes” were offered he rejected all the offers for benefits and even an offer for a free mansion. Instead he settled into a humble house in the capital, and took up his position as Garrison Commander.

In his role as Garrison Commander he had to interact with the Ivrit population on an equal basis much more closely than the rest of the appointed officials. This led to him becoming sympathetic to their ideals and ways, especially when finding out he had much of the same hobbies as the elite. His friendliness with the colonials helped him smooth out disputes between them and the Governor-General, though this did not prevent several from resigning until the latest one was appointed, who currently held the record for longest lasting Governor-General in recent history. However that was about to change, Governor Walecha had informed him that he was done half a year ago and was looking for the opportunity to resign, and that opportunity was about to present itself as the Colonial Minister was on his way to tour the islands.

Ser Kradok’s reminiscing was cut short by a knock on the door. He grunted an approval to enter and nodded as he watched his capable second in command enter. She gave him a crisp salute which he returned. “Commander Vonderruhe, is this visit business or pleasure?”

“Business sir.” She replied, going into a simple parade rest. “I wish to request your support in a career move sir.” She looked at him, the conviction in her eyes evident. “I humbly request your support in replacing Governor-General Walecha.”

Ser Kradok took a moment to process the request. He had watched her serve in her role for some time, and had personally handpicked her to lead the ground forces of the garrison for her dedication and skill. She had always faithfully followed his orders, and now she stood before him, asking for his help.

“Replacing Governor-General Walecha?” Kradok repeated questioningly. “That’s no small task. The position holds great responsibility and has many challenges.”

Anka nodded, her posture unwavering. “I understand the challenges sir. However I believe I am up to the challenge. I have seen both the successes and failures of the current leadership and I have the experience and vision necessary to ensure peace and stability here in the islands.”

Kradok leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk. “This would be a tremendous undertaking. It requires political savvy, diplomatic finesse, and the ability to maintain the balance between the mainland and the colonial government.”

Her voice remained steady as she replied to his implied question. “I am aware sir. I have dedicated my life to these islands and the people living on them. With your support, I believe I can navigate the challenges and provide the strong, stable leadership that is needed.”

Kradok took a moment to study her determined expression. He knew she was capable and had the respect and support of many of the local elites, and of the garrison forces. All that was missing was someone who could push her into the spotlight for the government back home to appoint her. “Commander Vonderruhe, I have witnessed your dedication and skill firsthand,” he finally said. “Becoming Governor-General is not a decision to be taken lightly. It will require sacrifice and perseverance. Are you prepared for the trials that come with the position?”

Anka’s eyes glinted with determination. “I am sir. I do not make this decision lightly. I am willing to sacrifice it all if it is for the betterment of the islands and her people.”

Kradok paused and then nodded slowly, his gaze locked with hers. “Very well. Commander Vonderruhe. If you truly believe in your ability to lead and serve, you have my support. I will endorse your candidacy for the position of Governor-General.”

A wave of relief washed over Anka’s face as she gave another salute. “Thank you sir. Your support means the world to me. I will not disappoint you.”

Kradok would nod his head, giving a small smile. “I believe in your potential. And I know you will not disappoint.” With that he returned her salute and watched as she exited his office. Maybe this would lead to a positive new era for the colony, or maybe it was all just treading water. Only time would tell.