Capital — Rafa
Palace of Versailles
Alberto's Office
Elizabeth stood rigid before the obsidian desk, shoulders squared, hands clasped behind her back.
"The Indiana Empire has responded," she said. Her voice was steady. "They demand we withdraw all fleets from their territorial waters within 24 hours. If not, they'll engage."
Alberto didn't flinch. He leaned back in his chair, rolling his fountain pen slowly between his fingers. The war map behind him glowed faintly, a massive holo-display of three continents under his looming ambition.
"So they've rejected the offer." His tone was almost amused.
Elizabeth let out a long breath. "Of course. What did you expect? Indiana is ranked sixteenth in global power. They're proud. They won't bow after a single ultimatum."
Alberto stood, walking toward the towering windows that overlooked the capital.
