Ad Astra - The Alagore War

AA V4 Salva, Chapter 7

"To Secretary Roberson, we are getting reports from our PI censors and agents on the field stating questions regarding JBCR (Fort Carson and Space Base Raymond). In the past three weeks, we have caught seventeen potential leaks regarding what is happening around the Bridge. We are coordinating with the CIA and NSA to plug all leaks about the current war.

As you already know, an information leak about the recent casualty report was released to the online channel Indie News. We found the individual who had leaked the details. It was a contractor who overheard a conversation between staff. Luckily, we were able to interject additional information, making them believe that five soldiers from 4th ID were killed during a training exercise. Lieutenant General Sherman has already increased security around the hospital.

One final element of this report is chatter about the ever-increasing troop level around JBCR. With so much hardware moving between both bases and additional personnel, this secret has raised questions the longer it goes on.

As stated before, we are doing everything possible to mitigate leaks and spread disinformation. Please note that our internal analysts believe this situation is untenable. Either we move operations off base or prepare to go public about operations on Alagore." – FBI Director Ethen Hunter

April 9th, 2069 (military calendar)

Salva, the former Confederacy of Daru'uie

Nevali Region, Aldrida, Alagore

*****

Sitting in a barely functional and uncomfortable chair, Assiaya stared at the cracked ceiling, unable to look away from boredom. When the American Ambassador arrived in the city, the woman occupied this building close to the Minutemen Headquarters, the Palace.

The Princess attempted to host a celebration to honor such a high-ranking official; however, the Ambassador bypassed any means of introduction and tours to the city. At first, the Princess believed the American woman wanted to get straight to work, but now, she didn't know.

Being one Zulu week, the woman had yet to interact with the townsfolk or even say hello to the Princess. She understood that the Ambassador had yet to leave this repurposed building.

"We have been here for three hours," the voice said.

"I know...," Assiaya mentally replied.

"Why did this woman request us if she was not going to be here."

"I know...."

"Three times that woman has done this to us."

"I said I know...."

"It is disrespectful! We are Princesses."

"Princess that needs their military."

"They choose you to lead. We should have gone to that fishing village yesterday and not goof around. You know I am right."

Assiaya took a deep, frustrated breath and looked away from the crack in the ceiling. She could do much work besides wasting time here, like talking with the Council or walking along the city streets, engaging with the people—something she unexpectedly had grown to love. But most likely, they would go to the Nagal fishing village to secure another food source.