The Earthquake
There are many stories in Ascadian legend and folklore of ancient and wondrous cities that once held riches beyond imagination. They sank to the bottom of the sea, off of what is now the eastern Ascadian coastline, destroyed by Titans in an act of vengeance for the gods.
The riches were not just limited to items of monetary value, but also historical artefacts that were said to hold secrets to the past and some that hold incredible power.
It is approaching the centenary anniversary since
The Nation of Churiss gained its independence from Ascadia - the actual date is just five days away. But four weeks ago, a large earthquake hit the area.
The epicenter was at sea between the two nations and after the earthquake, two small islands appeared in the waters between them. Both of them showed signs of stone ruins.
A very small part of both of them lay just within the national boundary of Churiss. But this was enough under the Independence Treaty, signed by both nations, for them to become their property.
The Incident
The Ascadian Royal Family were not ones to worry too much about documents they or their predecessors had signed. There was a saying among Ascadians -
"Treaties are for the moment, not the future".
The legends of the fallen cities were too strong for Ascadians to ignore and the Royal Family decided to dispute the ownership of the islands.
Minor skirmishes had broken out between fishermen trawling the area and a few of each nations' naval boats had become involved - twenty-one personnel lost their lives, all but two of them from Churiss.
Churiss agreed to stay any intention to land on the islands whilst the two nations discussed the dispute - Ascadia made the same commitment. The Council of Churiss full statement made clear this was not to be seen as any doubts it had regarding the interpretation of the Treaty or their right to the islands, but simply a courtesy they were showing to their neighbours.
However, the statement hardened the resolve of the Ascadian Royals. They had always possessed a strong naval fleet and they knew that their forces dwarfed those of Churiss. They were in a position of military strength.
On the third night after the agreement, Ascadian vessels entered neutral waters and powered towards the islands, anchoring some way offshore under darkness at around three in the morning. Three hundred Land forces disembarked in small boats and headed to land. Among the contingent were not only their best soldiers but also a contingent of magic users with a powerful arsenal of offensive spells at their disposal.
They were taking no chances.
The Ascadians were being observed. A Winged Division of the Churiss military was silently flying the skies keeping watch on the islands - the Council of Churiss knew better than to trust the Ascadians word.
End Game
The Leader of the Council of Churiss, Helana Skie had always had a good relationship with the Head of Military, Commander Gax - he was efficient and not afraid to speak his mind, often providing invaluable advice.
But tonight was not one for debate.
"For almost one hundred years we've put up with them - their gripes, squabbles, infractions - no more. Commander Gax, send The Reservists . And tell them to take a ship".
"But Leader! You know how that will end, and we'll be showing our hand to not just the Ascadians but the world. Our surprise will be lost!"
"Just do it Commander, or I'll make the order myself. And as for Ascadia warning others, later tonight when their forces on the islands have been obliterated, the Council is meeting to decide whether to invade... And take these bastards down once and for all!"
The die is cast, the minor conflict will now likely become a full-scale war and Churiss may not be the only nation that has a surprise readied.
Uh oh. I like that we're at a point in your world where this conflict is just beginning. That gives so much scope for what could happen. :O
Thank you! :)