The Fargo Opera and Ball
A band of animals dressed in suits had filled the stage. They carried instruments, from violins and cellos to pianos and harps. They played a musical symphony to the crowd of rich spectators in the heart of the city.
Wendover and Ann had decided to spend the night there. Watching and listening. The two were good friends off the battlefield, away from the logistics of battlefield tactics and brutal warfare…
The music playing was slow and methodical. Beautiful a beautiful composition of all the elements present on stage, echoing in the background. Everyone was enjoying it. Well… except for the occasional child who had been forced to go by their parents, their short attention spans weren't fit for this sort of place. But who was Wendover to judge? He didn't have any kids.
"People really ought to keep their kids home," Ann muttered. A bawling child had just been smacked by her mother. A stern warning was given to her, "They don't give a damn about music. This is no place for a child. Instead of listening to music, they should be outside with other kids. Playing."
"Indeed. Never did understand why people did it."
The music slowly picked up speed. Still going at the same slow pace it did before.
"People just don't feel safe anymore these days, much less about their kids," Wendover said to him.
"What makes you say that?"
"The protests in Whitechapel will tell you that. Everythings gotten expensive, people are dying… the average citizen just doesn't feel safe anymore."
"What can you do? We're fighting a war right now, that's the kind of expectation most people have during that time."
"Doesn't make it less out of the ordinary. I've heard that even a few civil servants are feeling a pinch in their pockets after all this mess. Fredrick should make some change."
"You and I both know that he isn't that kind of King Wendover… and besides, I'm sure that the Empire will get through this and we'll return back to normal."
The cadence of the music moved faster. The violins still moving relatively smooth, and the sounds coming in easy. Though it was noticeably faster than before.
"You know I'm not a big fan of politics, Ann. But if you'd ask me, I'd say that the Empire should just surrender already-"
"Huh?"
The music continued to go faster and faster. Notes flying out of the piano at a steady but accelerated pace. The entire atmosphere of the room changed, as the instrumentalists played faster.
"We've lost two battles to them already. Our casualties are in the thousands, and we haven't gained an inch of land yet! We did better in the Falkish Wars, and even from that we are still recovering!"
"The Empire cannot admit defeat. It'd look bad. We have to keep fighting them. And besides, if we surrender now, they'll just plow us through! We'll be slaves to them before you know it! We have to show those aliens that this is our home and we are ready to defend it!"
"But for what? We've fought in two deadly battles to now good end result, all we've done is lose Minerva! Even some of the Fringe states are throwing in the towel! The Court has been talking things like secession!"
"Then it's treason! A strong nation will be able to crush its enemies no matter!"
The music went into a period where it was complete silence from all of the other instrumentalists. Except for a few cellos. The strings rapidly vibrating, producing a sound that was almost jarring, and unpredictable in nature.
"If we continue on this course, we'll be on the losing side of history! There will be no more Empire to back if this war continues on! It'll bankrupt us!"
"Where is your pride, Wendover? Where is your optimism?"
"My optimism died during the Falkland Wars when Rupert threw our lives away like leftovers on his plate! How dare I support an institution that wastes lives like that?"
"How dare you support an institution that cared for you since you were a child and defended you since day one? The Royalty is a strong figure who has to make tough choices!"
Wendover and Ann were previously quiet, but now they were bordering on having a yelling match. The other patrons were shifting a bit uncomfortably at their political discourse.
"You've no idea what is good for the nation! You are a fool!"
"Wendover? What is wrong with you? Cant, you see that your lack of support for the Kingdom is one of the things that's holding us down?"
"Why should I support a Kingdom that is too blind to see that a majority of its people are starving because of this war? What about the peasants? What do they think of your stupid Nationalism?"
"When the war ends, they'll be fine-"
"But you said it yourself, the Empire won't back down! The wars will never end Ann!"
The entire orchestra joined in, filling the entire auditorium with a burst of sound.
"Well you know what, maybe I don't want to share this fine day with a fucking rebel!"
"And maybe I don't want to share it with a bird that's too blind to see the truth staring him in the face!"
"Fuck you!"
"Fuck YOU!"
The two stood up. The faces of the people immediately surrounding them staring in concern.
"What the fuck are you looking at?" Wendover growled. Quickly they all turned back to face the orchestra. The two quickly left, as the orchestra finished the last part of the symphony.
"People really ought to leave politics and stuff out of places like this."
"Yeah, there's a time and place for that kinda stuff!"
"Than bird guy was a fucking retard anyway."
"What do you mean? He was right!"
"Oh, you're not one of those Red Faction people are you?"
"Listen here, fucker, I'm proud of this nation-"
"Fuck you!"
"You want to get into it, eh? I don't care I'll give you a beating..."
Whitechapel, Fargo
The lower classes were pissed. Upset. Frothing with anger, teeming with rage. Words weren't enough to describe their frustration. All the working-class men and women that resided in the poor working neighborhood of Whitechapel, had taken to the streets. Throwing rocks at the District Guard sent in by the governor to quell the protests.
The battles at Minerva and Ithaca had devastated the Iscariot economy. The higher classes, upset at the fact they lost many of their own peasants, demanded to be recompensed by the Royal Crown for the losses. And Fredrick being the crowd-pleaser that he was, was committed to keeping them happy. New taxes were raised on the lower classes, and existing ones were raised. But things didn't end there…
Minerva was a rather large city and the surrounding farmland contributed a huge amount to the annual harvest of the Empire. Without the major economic trade center that was Minerva, and their grain contributions, the Iscariot food economy had been hit hard. And as the Iscariot Military's supposed infallibility came into question, many other surrounding vassal kingdoms and city-states began their own talks of secession and rebellion, which would further cripple the Iscariot food economy. The King again acted fast, and deliberately, with a speed before unseen under his rule. He imposed a new way to distribute grain, with the upper-class again getting more than the lions share, and the lower peasant and slave classes getting the leftovers of their own harvest.
Whitechapel, an area filled with poor lower-class coal miners, was lit ablaze overnight. The Coal Miners went against the wishes of the nobles who owned the mine and walked out of the tunnels refusing to do any labor. The mayor of Fargo sent out the local Gendarmerie to force the workers to return back to their posts, but instead of giving up and going back to work, the laborers fought back with their pickaxes and shovels.
Angry mobs overtook the Whitechapel within a few hours. They cried the tripartite motto that had become popular within the intellectual circles of the Reformists, "Liberty! Equality! Fraternity!" holding black and blue flags, with white tracings and designs on them. The colors reminiscent of Queen Nora, the Black Queen, and Snow Fox.
The nobles cried foul play on behalf of the Reformist Party, and the Red Faction especially pressured Fredrick to crack down on the protests with the military. But… he didn't.
Some say that Nora had a hand in it, which was likely. But no matter what actually influenced the decision, it worked. The District Guard had quelled the protests, and Whitechapel's relative peace had been restored.
It would only be the first in a series of incidents though.
Another meeting at the Royal Court. Another congregation. This time, everyone was invited, with utmost urgency. Fredrick himself requested for it to be held, and if it was him who had called the court into action, it must be serious.
Like always, the upperclassmen, governors, and merchants from all across the empire came to the Crystal Palace. Tensions were high amongst the crowd. Both the Reformists and Red Faction managed to gain massive support. But the Red Faction seemed significantly larger, mostly amongst the clergy and aristocracy. The Reformists had most of their support based on the Enlightened scholars, merchant class and peasantry, and although they made up a majority of the nation, they didn't have a say in Court. The two opposing sides sat opposite each other in the court, and you could feel the hate brewing within the room. Ready to lash out.
"The King and Queen of the Empire have arrived!" Said a soldier, bowing as the two Foxes entered the room. The entire court hushed, quickly upon their arrival. Not a single word. Their footsteps echoed throughout the large building. All the way up to their arrival at the throne.
"…My subjects… denizens of the Empire," Fredrick spoke out with a strong voice, "These past few weeks have been extremely hard on this country. Lost battles, an economic disaster, protests, and violence. Chaos is sweeping throughout the Empire and is showing its ugly face all across the board. Terror and fear reign supreme above order, strength, and authority…"
Nora watched Fredrick deliver his speech to the Court. He had been up all night writing it, though she had no idea what it contained. Nora watched an almost complete reform of the brutal fox she once knew. He was more compassionate, gentle, and understanding. But he still lacked the wisdom to effectively rule, but Nora held out for the thought that maybe… just maybe. He might gain the knowledge necessary to take the country by its reigns and actually bring about a real solution to the multiple crises' afflicting them.
"We as a people are in the midst of an extinction. Generals like Igraine have been humiliated by the hands of our enemies," Igraine shifted uncomfortably at the statement, "We've lost cities to the invading alien force. Bent on destroying everything we hold dear. Bent on destroying us, even. Riots, protests, disorder, and corruption have permeated our society. If we wish to overcome these odds, we must destroy the evil that has affronted our nation with unity and patriotic fervor. And as such… I will personally lead the charge to destroy the evil itself!"
Nora's face twisted a bit in confusion. 'What does he mean by that?'
"There is a saying that if you can't rely on others to do a job, it's better to do it yourself. And I, as the King of the Empire, will fill the role of strong leadership that we need!"
The audience listened, intrigued, moved. They hadn't gotten a speech like this since the days of King Rudolph, Rupert, Martin-Lewis, Queen Sofia, and Queen Johanna. Was Fredrick for real? Was he going to change his style and method of ruling? If he did so, that would firmly cement his name as one of the greatest in history! A champion of the Iscariot Empire, a key figure in Iscariot history! A legend, to be remembered for centuries, could he face the challenges the Empire faced head-on and lead the nation through it all?
Nora had to admit, inside of Fredrick was a heart that she hadn't seen in Rupert. There was an almost apologetic revenge hidden inside.
"And as such, I have devised a new plan. To deliver the swift and firm strike to our enemy that we needed since day one. I will personally lead an army, deep into enemy territory, to eradicate the alien menace that is encroaching upon our people!"
Wait, was he serious?
"I will fight the Ithacans at their home! To show them, that we are not scared of them!"
Cheering, and proud fists came from both sides of the Court. Both Reformists and Red Faction alike. Nora wasn't among them though, she only watched. Heartbroken…
Later…
"…Don't do it Freddie. Don't do it," Nora pleaded with her husband in a soft voice. The two were lying next to each other in bed, the sun setting over the City Skyline. The room was dark, barely lit by the red fiery candlelight, "Don't go to Ithaca. Send one of your generals. Or all of them instead."
"I must Nora," Fredrick said, his back turned to her, "I have to."
"You don't! Use your words Freddie! Diplomacy is an option-"
"Diplomacy was thrown out of the window the day they came from their world to ours. Mistakes were made, and dice was cast. I can't go back now."
Nora felt a terrible feeling of fear and anxiety overcome her, a dark feeling that pressed against her chest so she couldn't breathe, "You are the King of Millions of subjects! People who need you! You can't go!"
"They need a strong leader, Nora! And damned be my entire ancestry if I don't take up my sword and ride there myself to show them! I've got to! I've got to, Nora!"
"What about Julian? You have a child!"
"Julian has you," Fredrick said, "You're an amazing mother. There isn't a person elsewhere who could take care of him better. Not even me."
"So then what about me?" Nora pleaded with him.
Fredrick was silent, "What about me, Freddie? Y-you can't go off onto this grand crusade against the Ithacans. You'd be leaving your country, people, child, and wife behind! We all need you! Please!"
He hesitated for a moment and then turned to face Nora. His eyes were red. 'Had he been crying?' Nora thought. That was definitely a first for him. Nora opened her arms and wrapped Fredrick in a hug, softly. The pair sat up, embracing each other.
"I've made it so that… if something were to happen to me… you'd be the one coronated in my stead," Fredrick told her, just barely getting the message out in between shallow breaths and sniffles. Nora felt her own heart sink at the thought. She couldn't be coronated! What would she do? How? She couldn't be the reigning matriarch! Not now!
"Fred-"
"And… the entire nation would be under your command. All those people that… love you, Nora. They love you. You should've seen Whitechapel, Nora!" Fredrick said, while in her arms, "They had flags with your family colors on them. Black, White, Blue. All over. They want you as the monarch…"
She knew that amongst the peasant class and progressive societies, she was not only popular but almost beloved. Only now did it occur to her that those cries for her support had taken a toll on Fredrick's own image.
"I'm so sorry, really I-"
"It's not your fault, Nora. You were always more competent than I. You could see the good in people. Even in humans, reptilians, and insects. I should've listened to you more. I should've made you my co-regent… you deserve the crown more than I," Fredrick's usually strong and powerful voice was nothing more than a creaky whisper. Nora placed her face next to his, pressing their heads together.
"Don't say that… it's not your fault…"
"No matter what you say I'm going to Ithaca tomorrow. Come sunrise. I've made an army out of the Imperial Guard, those men would lay down their necks for my own. Some of the most loyal soldiers I have. And with the Guard, we will go down the Albya, and fight the Ithacans to the last man."
"You know that's not enough. The Imperial Guard will only be able to inflict so much damage to them, we've only just begun to give them muskets!"
"That's why I've also added a division of the Wesmich Krema Mercenaries."
Nora's face was a painting of confusion, "W-Wesmich? Fredrick, have you lost your mind? That's a myth!"
"The Guardians have come to meet me at the Nexus. They have given us the Krema Mercenaries, two hundred military magicians. Top of their class. They have the chance to change the tide of the war and give them a fight like no other."
"You've convinced the Guardians to sponsor this war?" Nora asked him, "How?"
"I didn't convince them. They asked me to allow it. With the Krema behind us, I'm convinced that we stand a chance!" Fredrick said, standing up, leaving Nora's warm embrace. He walked over to Julian's crib. He was sleeping steadily, unaware of his parent's conversation, "My son…"
Nora watched as Fredrick kneeled over the bed, his head on the edges of it, and weep over him, "I do this for you."
Daybreak
Overcast over Fargo. It was bright outside, the blue sky and yellow sun was hidden behind the blanket of clouds the hung over the city. In between rain showers, were cold winds. The seasons were changing. The Frost Season was on its way out.
Already, green buds had started to appear on a few trees and plants. Animals that only came around during the Flood Season, were spotted throughout the city. The Albya and Blareflush Rivers were almost at their limit, ready to burst and flood the plains as soon as the temperature in the northern mountains begin to climb. It was a oddly serene and beautiful day, despite the weather.
But in one spot in particular, the mood was grim. Dark hearts in the audience surrounding the Crystal Square. The Square was filled with people from all over the city. Of all classes and castes. Even a few slaves were present. All there to watch a momentous and historical occasion.
"The soldiers are ready sir. I've drilled them to the best of my capability and knowledge. They'll serve you well."
"Good, thank you Wendover."
"Aye sir."
"And Wendover?"
"Hmm?"
"I'm sorry. I know I haven't been the greatest ruler of all. And the way I've been treating you and your fellow countrymen, hasn't been the most wise."
"…"
"Very well, that's all. Thank you."
"Thank you sir. Bless you…"
In the center of the Square, leading up to the Crystal Ball, were lines of soldiers. Dressed in burgundy red and golden yellow colors. White pants. Knee high black boots. Steel helmets. And most importantly, muskets. A new introduction to the Imperial Army. This was the Imperial Guard. Seasoned veterans through a multitude of military campaigns. The most loyal and experienced soldiers that the King had. They lined the parade grounds, bearing the red and gold of the Iscariot flag.
Behind their ranks stood crowds of bystanders and spectators. All waiting for one man to arrive.
A brass trumpet blew, and the reverb of drums cracked through the athmosphere. The gate of the Palace walls opened, and out came the King upon a single black horse. The lower animal walking proud as it was trained to do. The King himself, rather slouchy. Whether it be fear, or regret, nobody knew for sure.
He rode the horse right into the middle of the ranks. Where he was within an earshots range of them all. And slowly, he disembarked the horse, his boots slapping the cobblestone with a crack. The instruments died down, and everything was silent, save for the songs of the lower birds that echoed through the skies.
Fredrick kind of walked around, pacing a bit, unsure of what to do or say. Until he stopped, and looked up at one of the lines of his soldiers.
"Men! Soldiers! My Loyal Soldiers!" Fredrick said with a loud and thunderous voice so everyone could hear. But through the loudness of it all, significant emotion could be heard in it, "Today is the day that I will ride to the Ithacans themselves! So… to my countrymen! I say farewell! If I am defeated battle…"
He hesitated, his voice wavering and cracking from emotion. The soldiers looked on, steadfast. Waiting for the ruler to continue his speech.
"I shall not return… a ruler stands with his people. With his soldiers. If I lose I shall either be captured or dead. I love you all so much, from the soldiers to the people! Each one of you! But I can only hope to keep you in my heart! I bid you farewell, and godspeed!" Fredrick sighed, after finishing the farewell address.
The line of soldiers bowed their heads in respect. A standard procedure for the military. But it spread to the other members of the audience, and the peope surrounding them. Until the whole gathering had bowed in respect to the Fox King.
Fredrick looked on as his people, for the first… and probably last time, honored King Fredrick the First. Son of King Rupert the First, claimant of the Jorgan Dynasty. His eyes almost watering. He again, saddled up on his horse, as the Imperial Guard began to march alongside him. They'd meet up with the Krema Divisions later. But for now, the long road down to Ithaca lay ahead.
Watching the whole thing from the bedroom window was Nora. A glass of wine in her paws. She watched Fredrick walk from the walls out to address the troops. She too had been crying the whole morning, and couldn't help but feel pity. The chances that he would come back was low. He knew that, she knew that, everyone knew that. The Ithacans had swiftly beaten the Iscariots twice before, with massive casualties. If only Nora could go with him…
She eyed Julian, waddling around the floor of the room, oblivious to what was going on around him. And Nora remembered that she couldn't go. There was a nation to lead. A son to raise…