NationStates Jolt Archive

Freiburg, Ienotheisa

Aboard KMS Kaiser Friederich
Admiral Augusta von Schellenburg was ashore when news came of the insurrection. Immediately her second in command, Rear-Admiral Tachtenberg ordered that no word of it be distributed lest it institute panic.
"That's for the commander-in-chief to do." he warned. Heads nodded soberly.
Imperial Marines and army units were being ordered to amphibious ships; refuelling vessels and logistics vessels began moving supplies onto the combat ships. Recon planes began to send requests for data to the strategic satellites.
The Admiral lived in a pleasant home in the city once known as Plenty with her lover, a woman from Athenys named Selene.
At her door, the Admiral, a handsome woman in her fifties, turned while her aide waited near the car and took Selene in her arms. "I'm afraid it's serious, but I can't say how, liebchen. So I will just say I love you, and farewell."
Selene kissed her warmly and touched her face. "Take care..."
The Admiral smiled at her. "I will." she kissed Selene a last time and then walked briskly down to the car.

What are the ideologies of the warring factions?

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Kûk‡xenisi n!ok‡x'osi xno-k‡xek‡emi.-The state only exists to serve itself.
"Oppose excessive military spending, yet believe in excessive spending on junk food and plastic surgery to make all your women look like LARDASSES!"-Sino, when I criticized excessive military spending.
http://www.sulucas.com/images/steatopygia.jpg
I'm male. Note the pic of attractive women.

What are the ideologies of the warring factions?



Kill each other, get the power over the country.

~TNDF military analyst.

The Admiral lived in a pleasant home in the city once known as Plenty with her lover, a woman from Athenys named Selene.

OOC: Arrgh!! Why is always "good lesbians/feminists/social lbierals vs. evil Christians/Catholics/moral conservatives? Why can't we have evil Wiccans? Fascist lesbians? Oy. :evil: :(

IC:
[code:1:87d527a4a2]---Maximum Encryption Message---
To: Loyalist Lavenrunzian Government/Volksgraad/ (OOC: You get the idea)
From: 5-Star General Vincent Ferrerr Chalermchai, Strategos Strategon, Syskeyian armed forces

Do you require any outside help to fight the fascist menace in your country. If so, the 11th, 38th, and 77th Airborne Divisions are ready for immediate deployment.

God bless,

Gen. Vincent F. Chalermchai
Strategos Strategon
The Republic of Syskeyia[/code:1:87d527a4a2]

OOC: Arrgh!! Why is always "good lesbians/feminists/social lbierals vs. evil Christians/Catholics/moral conservatives? Why can't we have evil Wiccans? Fascist lesbians? Oy.

Because they're fighting oppression and hatred and the other side is trying to maintain their power over the oppressed.

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Kûk‡xenisi n!ok‡x'osi xno-k‡xek‡emi.-The state only exists to serve itself.
"Oppose excessive military spending, yet believe in excessive spending on junk food and plastic surgery to make all your women look like LARDASSES!"-Sino, when I criticized excessive military spending.
http://www.sulucas.com/images/steatopygia.jpg
I'm male. Note the pic of attractive women.

[Tag for later response]

OOC: What is tagging?

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Kûk‡xenisi n!ok‡x'osi xno-k‡xek‡emi.-The state only exists to serve itself.
"Oppose excessive military spending, yet believe in excessive spending on junk food and plastic surgery to make all your women look like LARDASSES!"-Sino, when I criticized excessive military spending.
http://www.sulucas.com/images/steatopygia.jpg
I'm male. Note the pic of attractive women.

OOC: Tagging is when you post so you can find the thread easily via egosearch.

I see. I'll keep that in mind.

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Kûk‡xenisi n!ok‡x'osi xno-k‡xek‡emi.-The state only exists to serve itself.
"Oppose excessive military spending, yet believe in excessive spending on junk food and plastic surgery to make all your women look like LARDASSES!"-Sino, when I criticized excessive military spending.
http://www.sulucas.com/images/steatopygia.jpg
I'm male. Note the pic of attractive women.

It may seem like I am offering a lot for you to read, but you can pick and chose. Hope this is helpful.

How it started:
http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=101532&highlight=

(and if you don't want to read all the partying and intriguing before the event):
http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=101532&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=400

A summation included in the media reports:
http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=109830&highlight=

Further OOC Note. Syskeyia, honestly. Think about it. How many lesbian/wiccan characters do I have? Most of my characters that are adults are married or seeking to be so to people of the opposite sex. And most are Christians, regardless of your complaints about Lavenrunzian Catholicism. The reason why a lesbian commander was appointed in Ienotheisa was to make her more appealing to the Ienotheisans. It's that simple. Argh!
And get with it: there has been far more oppression of homosexuals and people of alternative religion in the past few centuries by Christians than the other way around anyway. Stop complaining!

IC:
~Secure Transmission~
To: His Excellency Strategos Strategon Vincent Ferrer
From: General Hans Schlabel, Minister for War
I am very grateful, on behalf of Her Majesty's Government, for your offer of assistance. However, we expect our own loyal forces and the Menelmcari will be able to deal with the situation as it currently stands. Nevertheless, I would ask you to put your forces on alert so that they will be ready as it is my intention to speak to the rest of SATO about this matter.
~End Secure Transmission~

Why can't we have evil Wiccans? Fascist lesbians?

ooc: believe it or not, i feel your pain. from my side of the aisle, though, M and L are evil fascist lesbians, so maybe this is a sign you need to switch sides. also:

Because they're fighting oppression and hatred and the other side is trying to maintain their power over the oppressed.

go read Nietzsche; no one fights oppression, they fight for their own ability to oppress. discussion continued here (http://invisionfree.com/forums/CACE/index.php?showtopic=742), for those that daaaare.

Message Sent to Laverunzian Government, and to Menelmacari Government:

"We have noted that Laverunz is undergoing a revolution. In the sake of stability and order, and the fact that these terrorists seem to support the Reich, we are offering Thelasian Millitary support. At this time, we can have:

1 Grav Fleet
300,000 Troops
20,000 K-Mags
30,000 Grav-Tanks
60,000 Infantry Support Automated Mechs

On route withing two hours of notification. We will not send any forces with out either Menelmacari of Laverunzian permission. The Grav-Fleet is on route, but will stop three miles out side Laverunzian territorial waters."

Thelas News Network

"Hello, This is Carnesîr with the Thelas News Network, in recent news, General Theallas has ordered the mobilizing of over one million reserve troops. As of yet, we are unsure why these forces have been activated, but it might have something to do with Morgoths' latest activities, or something to do with the recent civil war in Laverunz, more to come at eleven."

go read Nietzsche; no one fights oppression, they fight for their own ability to oppress. discussion continued here, for those that daaaare.

This is the same guy that promotes misogynism. Take what he says with a grain of salt.

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Kûk‡xenisi n!ok‡x'osi xno-k‡xek‡emi.-The state only exists to serve itself.
"Oppose excessive military spending, yet believe in excessive spending on junk food and plastic surgery to make all your women look like LARDASSES!"-Sino, when I criticized excessive military spending.
http://www.sulucas.com/images/steatopygia.jpg
I'm male. Note the pic of attractive women.

To the High Command (Government) and Loyalists of Lavenrunz

If you wish to minimise casualities, Kryozerkia is willing to help with peace negotiations. If the parties wish to sit down, we will be happy to help. Let us know when, because we don't much care for any war. We have no problem with assisting with peaceful disputes (aka - muscle flexing but no real blood shed).

When you tire of war, we will be here to help settle this peacefully.

From
Zeke Van Kurt
Minister of Foreign Affairs

Zoria Xylander
Governor General

Zekia Kelleigh
Prime Minister

Further OOC Note. Syskeyia, honestly. Think about it. How many lesbian/wiccan characters do I have?

Well, it's not just you. There's St. Dominic, where its the "good, democratic Wiccans" vs. the "evil fascist Christians," the whole Iesus-Ieno thing (while Syskeyia will abide by the Treaty of Lyle, I'm not too wild about Ienotheisa)! Oi.

And most are Christians, regardless of your complaints about Lavenrunzian Catholicism.

My compalints ceased when you negotiated with the (now defunct) Holy Empire of St. Peter, in which it was stated that female religious may preach to female-only congregations, and married men may become priests (but priests may not marry). Please remember the correct dispensations given by the (fictional) Holy See.

The reason why a lesbian commander was appointed in Ienotheisa was to make her more appealing to the Ienotheisans. It's that simple.

OK. Didn't know about that. A reasonable decision, though one I must disagree with. Oh well.

And get with it: there has been far more oppression of homosexuals and people of alternative religion in the past few centuries by Christians than the other way around anyway. Stop complaining!

Just wait and see.

IC:
~Secure Transmission~
To: His Excellency Strategos Strategon Vincent Ferrer
From: General Hans Schlabel, Minister for War
I am very grateful, on behalf of Her Majesty's Government, for your offer of assistance. However, we expect our own loyal forces and the Menelmcari will be able to deal with the situation as it currently stands. Nevertheless, I would ask you to put your forces on alert so that they will be ready as it is my intention to speak to the rest of SATO about this matter.
~End Secure Transmission~

:(

ooc: believe it or not, i feel your pain. from my side of the aisle, though, M and L are evil fascist lesbians, so maybe this is a sign you need to switch sides. also:

What?! And outlaw capitalism, forcing the Republic to rely on black markets to keep up our Frightening economy?

[Mace Windu]I don't think so.[/Mace Windu]

God bless,

The Republic of Syskeyia

OOC:yes taggy waggy and Syskeyia...silly boi! (oh and the treaty of Lye was violated years ago-remember? *shots some more Dominicans just to prove it/rolls on the channel islands*

Using The mAGic bookmark

If the liberal faction needs more help, they need only ask for it.

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Kûk‡xenisi n!ok‡x'osi xno-k‡xek‡emi.-The state only exists to serve itself.
"Oppose excessive military spending, yet believe in excessive spending on junk food and plastic surgery to make all your women look like LARDASSES!"-Sino, when I criticized excessive military spending.
http://www.sulucas.com/images/steatopygia.jpg
I'm male. Note the pic of attractive women.

OOC= I made this IC post in the news thread (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=109830&highlight=), FYI for those who are confused. Jo responded there and I will continue the RP there also.
---------------------------------
Hofburg, Lavenrunz
---------------------------------

“This is Ursie Barema reporting live for KNN in central Hofburg.”

The woman with black curly hair and warm grey eyes stood in front of a camera on a street in the centre of the old Lavenrunzian capital.

“So far, I have not yet heard word of what happened to our Prime Minister who attended the Winter Ball…”
A voice via radio interrupted her. A man in the broadcasting studio set: “latest information here says that she hasn’t returned home yet, but she has apparently been evacuated with other guests.”

“That information is new to me, Paul, but it just proves once again what a chaos it is. I have been reporting here for several years but I had never expected this. There has been … some … hostility against outside influences – mainly from Eldar - but I had never considered it to have such a level of support. But I assure you that I’m learning quickly here. Let’s go through what has happened so far. Three hours ago…”

Her report was interrupted by the sound of engines and marching footsteps. At that very moment, a column of Lavenrunzian tanks followed by armed infantry came around the corner of the street, thundering ahead. The cameraman zoomed in for a moment on the tanks and the men. A KNN exclusive. , he thought enthusiastically. As long as those troops don’t start shooting this will be a great day. Erm, for journalism.

“Excuse me Paul”, Ursie gestured the cameraman to follow her and he did, making the image for the viewer a bit shaky. Fearlessly, she walked right at one of the leading infantrymen. When parallel to him, she walked along with the man holding the mike in his direction: “Sir? Sir? Can you answer a question please for viewers all around the globe who are watching this? What is going on?”

((OOC: is this all right? I can edit if needed. If the soldier shoots her it will be live on television for billions to see. ;) ))

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Council of Ministers, The Hague, Knootoss
--------------------------------------------------------

The gathered Knootian ministers looked at the Empty seats: one at the head of the table and another one next to the foreign minister. Lousewies van der Laan, Prime Minister, still had not returned from the Winter Ball. The ministers were worried, even though rumour now suggested that she was safe.

The other important person for Foreign Affairs, state secretary Galadriël Táralóm nos Cirdan was abroad bringing a state-visit to Iansisle (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=102746&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0)

This left Foreign Minister Hans van Mierlo in charge to decide upon the matter. He had been trying to get more information for this meeting, but he had failed. I really NEED a Lavenrunzian word on this. Without it I can’t make any sensible decisions., he thought as he slowly cleared his throat. He explained the situation to his colleagues, but only the minister of Defence seemed to understand him and have something of an idea of what was going on. Finally, he came to conclusions and suggestions:

“ …I would strongly suggest leaving this alleged leader ‘Count Mirbach’ to the allied specops already on the scene. The Menelmacari can deal with him. What we need to do is to help to restore order, but I am hesitant about the support we have there.”

“We have the Peace corps to deploy on a very short notice”, the minister of Defence stated bluntly. “and we have … more violent options. Our North Pole mission.” He looked around. Some of the ministers understood, but others did not. He did not care to elaborate. “Any resistance could be dealt with quickly by rerouting those forces but it would be very bloody, if not only very confusing for our allied forces...[/I]

Hans van Mierlo bit his lip. He did not know enough about the situation, he did not know what the people of Lavenrunz wanted and he severely doubted the Knootian militaries abilities to function in a full-blown civil war. But decisions had to be made nevertheless…

((OOC: Jo, as you can see I don’t know what to do: which is why I am asking your OOC permission for:
-peace corps deployments who would arrive shortly
-redeployment of the Knootian Melkorian-built gravships. I understand this borders future tech, so I’m asking special permission for them. And even then I’ll really have to think about sending them.))


----------------------------------
KDF Wind in de Wilgen
----------------------------------
The Knootian destroyer Wind in de Wilgen, designed for Anti Submarine Warfare, altered course mid-seas and came about to a heading straight for Lavenrunz. The Elvish captain noticed the latest reports. More Knootian navy ships had turned about, converging on Lavenrunz. He checked the systems didplay: radar was offline, masking system was on and sonar deployed. Anyone without high SATO military intelligence clearance would have a hard time spotting his vessel.

((OOC: Thelas, does anyone know about this mobilisation of yours? About the precise target, or perhaps only about the troop mobilisations? If so, I’d like to have a word with you. :) ))

<tageddy>

Chimaea hopes that control will be returned to Lavenrunz soon. If any help is needed, you know how to find us :)

TAG, you're it!!!

Simon walked down the hazy Freiburg street, whistling a tune happily, with a fresh newspaper under his arm. A pair of children ran past, rolling a hoop, blissfully unaware of the situation in Lavenrunz.

He took a left, into a quiet little residential street, and rapped smartly - twice, thrice, and twice again - on the yellow door. The woman that opened it - carpet slippers, a dressing gown, a hairnet on her head - beamed a smile at him.

"Come right in, young man," she spoke, and stepped aside politely. He did, carefully brushing his feet on the carpet. "Cuppa for you in the kitchen, then I'm off upstairs to make the beds." With a little bobbed half-curtsy, she headed off up the stairs, and Simon walked into the kitchen. The newspaper, the Lavenrunz coup its headline, was set on the table as he picked up cup and saucer and drank the refreshing brew.

Made some toast.

Did other normal saturday morning activities: reading the newspaper, making a boiled egg, listening to the wireless, heading down the stairs into the basement to torture the Lavenrunzian military attache.

The man - covered in seeping wounds, a scar down the side of his face - was tied and bound into a sturdy wooden chair. His lips were cracked, specked with flecks of dried blood, and clots almost blocked up his nostrils.

"So," his interrogator said in a friendly voice, placing the remains his breakfast on a nearby table. "We're going to play a little game. I think I'll call it ... 'Simon Says'. In this game, when I tell you to do something - like answer questions - you do it. What route will the Admiral's car take?"

The Lavenrunzian remained silent, his eyes closed. Simon 'tssked', picked up his tea, and took a sip. He looked thoughtfully at the captive, before tipping the scalding liquid into the man's lap.

"So. What route will the Admiral's car take?"

... ... ....

Later, Simon - disguised, with a pair of excellent elf-ear theatre props in his pocket, and two concealed single-shot pistols - went to get some coffee from a cafe next to a crossroads with traffic-lights. A crossroads that Admiral Augusta's car would have to pass through. It was still early, and the work of a moment to pretend to be pressing the 'Cross' button as he attached a small electrical pulse device to the lights, one that would complete the circuit and turn the green light to red when he pressed the control in a different jacket pocket.

Then it was time for the hard choice: latte or espresso?


OOC:
Lalala - cleared with Lavenrunz before anyone jumps on my back.

OOC: First of all, to SeOCC, thanks for continuing political/economic debate elsewhere.
Secondly: the ball thread is winding up, the civil war itself will be played out here and in the media thread.
Thirdly, I am not ignoring anyone, but there can be no official response yet from the loyalists for in-character reasons.
IC:
Hofburg, Lavenrunz
Leaving behind the wreckage of vehicles near the bridge, Erica von Fischer led her task force down the embankment till they reached the railway bridge. Captain Faber was left to set explosives. While he was setting up equipment, Erica consulted with the teams moving in to secure the airport.
She finished her consultation as a report came in from two squad's sniper that part of the mechanized battalion had re-routed towards the railway bridge.
"Okay, listen up." she said to her team. "Faber is going to finish laying explosives here and then pull back to headquarters. The rest of us will continue on to the sentry positions leading up to the airport and hold them. Simultaneously--" she suppressed a cynical smirk, "The Navy will support us with planes and helicopters, including helicopters to pull us out when the job is done. Alright, let's act like we got a purpose!"

Palace of the Moon and the Stars
There was little time for any questions; Colonel von Paderborn had received a report that rebel armor was advancing on the palace from several points. Hofburg was almost entirely occupied by the enemy. There could be no question of allowing the Government and the Regent to be captured again.

General von Baden, concluding his interview with the Veganan, was furious with Colonel von List, who was commanding the armored battalion.
"Colonel, your overconfidence is going to lose me what I've gained." he snapped into the phone. "Now: you will kindly use your infantry to advantage and not fall into the same trap again. What? Yes, of course time is of the essence, but act like a man of experience, not a subaltern looking for a medal." he slammed the phone down and cursed like a trooper.

Colonel von List was pale with anger. Not only had someone--probably bastard Jaegers or Mornahosse--blown up one of the bridges but they had also caught an entire mechanized company in a trap and blown nearly all the vehicles to hell with rockets. The only blessing is that small special forces units couldn't carry that much ammunition--there were only so many apcs they could destroy. But they had of course melted away, leaving many of the mechanized troops trapped on a street between destroyed vehicles at either end.
He snapped orders for troops to dismount and advance alongside vehicles.

Astra, Lavenrunz

The helicopter carrying the two Archdukes and one Archduchess landed at last, where an honour guard from the 7th Halberdiers presented arms.
A man of middle years in a dress uniform approached them and saluted.
"Highnesses, I am General von Villach, and I welcome you to Astra."

The Hague, Knootoss

The Ambassador to Knootoss was in a very awkward position. He had been appointed by Her Majesty's government, but he had almost no information and no contact with the Foreign Minister, Chancellor or Regents.
After some indecision, Ambassador Gottwald went to the Hague directly and asked to speak to Hans van Mierlo. He was a dapper man in his late forties, known in Knootoss for his lavish parties and conversational charm, but he was rather at a loss now...

Freiburg, Ienotheisa

Admiral von Schellenburg busied herself checking the fleet's readiness reports in the back of her car. Her ADC was busy phoning up the various ship commanders and marine and air commanders for confirmations. The driver was quietly cursing at the inevitable bad traffic. The lights changed, and the Admiral glanced up a moment before returning to her laptop.

HA observation satellites wheeled into position of Lavenrunz, and then, their small drives blazed to life, holding them stationary to the ground.

Sensors lanced out, and began to watch, and small, somewhat intelligent computers began tagging the units involved with ID codes.

Count Mirbach was sitting in the Chancellor's study, drinking coffee and listening to a report from General von Hentzau, who he had appointed Minister for War.
General Baroness Ulrica von Hentzau was in her late forties now but was still among the most beautiful women in Lavenrunz; without makeup or any anti-ageing enhancements her lovely grey eyes, noble features and smiling mouth made one entirely ignore little imperfections. Till recently she had headed first the Imperial Military Academy and then the Imperial War College.
"There are four foreign expeditions preparing for Lavenrunz." she summed up. "One from Menelmcar, the 12th Reserve Army. One mechanized army from Thelas. One Airborne corps from Syskeyia, and one mixed force from Knootoss."
Mirbach had expected this, but he felt acid in his stomach anyway, and put the coffee down.
"Now: Menelmacar will ironically be the easiest to deal with. They like to concentrate their forces into really big targets." she smiled. He couldn't help but smile back, it was for her intelligence and calm that he had appointed her. "As for Syskeyia, we intercepted a transmission from Schlabel that they refused them. Which means that in all likelihood Schlabel will secretly ask them to come anyway. Without coordination with the pro-Menelmacari--have we come up with a name for them yet?"
"Because dung eating elf lovers?" he chuckled humorlessly. "Besides heretics? We're going to refuse to call them the government or anything, Menelmacari will be used, and puppet government and puppet forces in future transmissions. Go on."
"Thelas won't get permission; I think they'd rather surrender than have Thelas lording it here. And Knootoss--" she grinned, "I think we could call up some third rate Landwehr units and arm them with feather dusters to beat the Knootians. No, my plan is a first strike right now against suspected...puppet forces."
"We are capable and ready?" he asked.
"Yes, but I'll be honest, there are outlying areas and areas with communist activity that we'll have to watch out for. Just preventing a link up with foreign expeditions is priority right now. Particularly in Hofburg." General von Hentzau smoothed her tunic. "With permission, I will give orders that aggressive defense be enacted now."
Count Mirbach nodded.
The important thing was to act like this coup was the victory it was, and let the soldiers deal with what they did best.

Ein almost clicked his heels and saluted, but caught himself at the last second, remembering her orders not to salute her in the field. Instead, his hand twitched like it was going to come up, then returned to holding his MP5. He turned and followed the others, wondering how they were going to get up the steep walls as he walked.

The cold was starting to get to him again. In the adrenaline rush of battle, he hadn't noticed it, but now the bitter cold encroached on his body once more, reminding him that back home it was much warmer. He firmly pushed the discomfort down, working to keep his mind focused on what he was doing.

A little ways ahead, he could see Bolan walking easily, obviously completely comfortable in the cold. Ein envied him that. Ein was from the port city of Saleon on the southern coast of Glorious Humanity, while Bolan hailed from the Carth Mountains near the western border of the nation. The Carths got blizzards regularly during the winter, thus Bolan was infinitely better suited to this weather.

Well, at least I'm not the only one who's uncomfortable, he thought to himself, looking around at the Jaegers.

The Admiral's car slowed down and stopped. The windows were tinted, reducing visibility inside, and they were doubtless bulletproof. But that was alright. Simon stood, leaving a note - bearing an elven DNA sample on it, as did the cup he had pretended to drink from - on the table, and headed to the pedestrian crossing, his hair just failing to conceal his elven ears, the shadowed cheekbones that made him look Quenyan.

Past the first rank of traffic, past the second. Into the opposite direction lane, and ... up onto the bonnet of the car. His heavy soles - studded - scratched the painted surface as the suspension was forced down by his weight, and it took just two strides - bonnet, windscreen, and up onto the roof. He stamped down on the sunroof - the reinforced glass was built to withstand single points of penetration, not crushing pressure - with all his might.

And now ... two shots, into that lovely little Admiral's head, before I run ...

The occupants of the car were startled, the ADC looked up in alarm and fumbled to get his laptop out of the way so he could do something. The Admiral at first thought something had hit the car, and looked up, her mouth forming a question...

Heavily coded message from the Kalessin Ministry of Peace to Count Mirbach:

"Watching your glorious revolution from afar, we have rejoiced in the fact that finally the people of Lavenrunz have decided to throw off the Menelmacari yoke, and take back their freedom. However, it has come to our attention that the Elentari may not share our feelings, and may attempt to re-enslave you by force. Therefore, we of the Empire are willing to offer limited military aid, should you issue a formal request for such. Naturally, once Lavenrunz self-rule is secure, we, unlike the elven scum, will be willing to depart your soil immediately. Should this whole affair come to an election, we will of course be most happy to help fund your campaign."

One potato ...

The first shot was aimed square at the Admiral's forehead, Simon standing for a split second stock still on the roof of the stationary car ...

Two potato ...

The second shot ran out just afterwards, aimed into the woman's mouth, to shred her windpipe and drown her in her own blood even if the brain-damage of the first bullet wasn't enough ...

Three potato ...

Simon jumped to the side, onto the roof of the car stopped next to the Admiral's, and then jumped and ducked behind it ...

Four ...

And he began gave a quick burst of speed, ran to a corner, and turned round it at a walk.

OOC: LAverunz, will I get a government responce?

IC:

Message to Menelmacari Government, marked urgent.

Subject: Laverunz, Thelasian intervention?

"As of late, Laverunz is undergoing a civil war, we sent a message requesting permission to send a mechanized force to Laverunz to re-instate the proper (royal) government. Unfortunatly, the government has not responded, leading us to think that either the government has been destroyed, or we have lost contact with them. As regent of Laverunz, and the supirior of our leader, Lady Sirithil has the ability to give permission for Thelasian troops and grav-units to support Menelmacari and allied units.

I know that in the recent past Thelas has not been too friendly with Laverunz, but for both of our nations, a Reich friendly Laverunz is not a goal we seek. I ask for permission for the Thelass intervention."

Astra, Lavenrunz

The helicopter carrying the two Archdukes and one Archduchess landed at last, where an honour guard from the 7th Halberdiers presented arms.
A man of middle years in a dress uniform approached them and saluted.
"Highnesses, I am General von Villach, and I welcome you to Astra."

I bet you do.

But Raven would not conduct herself with less than courtesy, here. "Thank you, General," she said. "I presume you are here to escort us to our residence? I should like to rest."

The Hague, Knootoss

The Ambassador to Knootoss was in a very awkward position. He had been appointed by Her Majesty's government, but he had almost no information and no contact with the Foreign Minister, Chancellor or Regents.
After some indecision, Ambassador Gottwald went to the Hague directly and asked to speak to Hans van Mierlo. He was a dapper man in his late forties, known in Knootoss for his lavish parties and conversational charm, but he was rather at a loss now...

--------------------------------
The War Room
The Hague, Knootoss
--------------------------------

A Knootian soldier in a plain green uniform who was guarding the thick door that led to the central chamber. He looked at the security pass the Lavenrunzian ambassador. “Ah, welcome. Come in Mr. Gottwald, die minister and the General… wachting for you”, he said in English that was unusually poor for a Knootian.

The thick doors opened with a hiss, revealing a spectacle of flashy lights and consoles and of people – humans and elves – humming around like it was a bees nest. Gottwald immediately noticed a huge map of Lavenrunz projected against the back wall, with moving red, grey and blue dots projected on it. Most dots were still grey, unknowns.

In the centre of the room, he noticed Hans van Mierlo conferring with an elderly man with a big moustache. An officer was just handing out a status report. ((OOC: in Dutch, so it depends if he knows it for him to understand..))
“12th Lavenrunzian Landwehr is moving south General, loyalties still not confirmed but…” the officer reported. “Wait a minute,” , the General said as he looked at the entrance. “Your guest, Minister?” Van Mierlo turned around and noticed Gottwald standing there. He made a gesture with his hand that he had to go and walked over to the entrance. He bowed ceremonially, and led the Ambassador in…

Meanwhile, in a far corner of the same room
Special assistant Tanya was back at her old post in the communications station – though this time the violence was somewhere else. She was looking at a vidscreen that displayed the image of a Menelmacari Elf: Serendis.

“Thank you for the contact information. I will be sure to re-contact you shortly or we will take this up with Menelmacari military command directly. Coordination is of the essence in such situations”
…
“Yes, I will personally contact the General personally.”
…
“Thank you. Knootoss Military command out.”

The screen faded and Tanya took a look at the incoming information and contact channels. Professionally, she popped up the contact for Schlabel

((OOC: I talked it over with Siri and she provided me with the contact information for General Schlabel, the Lavenrunzian minister of war. I don’t know where he is at the moment but he is going to get the following transmission whether by e-mail, phone, some IRC chatroom or friggin’ SMS. ;) ))

[code:1:8720c65ad3]
To: General Schlabel, minister of war.
From: Knootoss military command
Encryption: SATOencrypt Delta-4

The DDR is still loyal to the Royal family and will help to stop this illegitimate coup. For security purposes we cannot disclose information on our forthcoming actions for fear that this transmission is intercepted.

We urgently need information on the military status of the grand cannons guarding the Lavenrunzian coast. There is confusion as to who controls them. Have they been captured or are they still in loyalist (Menelmacari) hands? This matter bears the highest urgency.

Thank you for your information. Long live the Empress![/code:1:8720c65ad3]

((OOC: Military deployment post forthcoming, diplomacy always comes first. :P))

The report of Lavenrunz Civil War scrolled down Escabar's right-eye glass as the NewsTech glasses picked up bits of the story from the Planetary DataNet. The man had barely got settled into his chair as the news of the new war careened across the void of space onto the MarsNet. He was the director of the Arms Manufacturing department, and as a result he had to be on top of every war that popped. A backwater village conflict, or collosal powerbloc war, there was a chance arms could be sold, and if possible he would dispatch contracts. To both sides.

Sadly, this was one of those delicate situations. He was dealing with major world powers, not some backwater desert alliance. This meant he actually had to be careful, and destroy any sort of paper trail. Not this wasn't standard, all arms dealings were by nature made impossible to connect to his department, and, possibly more importantly, to the Trustees at the head of this corporation.

Escabar quickly motioned into the laser feeds as the program chose a chaotic path through various telephone servers, computers, e-mails, and other electronic mediums, the trail erasing itself when possible. Multiple different codes bounced throughout the known universe, until they quickly coalesced at the destination, leaving their message, they then shot off to meddle the trail further. They had left hundreds of messages over the planet, all seemed meaningful, some even came after the message as codes disapeared into oblivion.

--------
De-encoding
FROM: Tilda's Flower Shop!
TO: Client, Count Mirbach

Hello Future Client, we are third party interested in your cause! We hope to be able to help you in any way we can. We have various means of dealing with your problems, some very advanced and others easy to find at your local store. All of these are at cheap and afforable prices! For example, we have various kinds of flowers, such as the Anne Kitson flower, a wonderful plant that comes in 47 varieties. We also have some imitation Star Fire Plants, all they need is some special fertilizer and they'll make your neighbors burn with envy. In addition, we also have an easy to find plant, some Quickbloomer Dandelion! Named so because of their knack of blooming quite quickly, almost like it were combusting! These come in all shapes and sizes, why some can take up entire gardens! We also have other, more exotic plants.

Hope to hear from you soon!
~Tilda's Flower Shop Owner

--------

Escabar double checked the letter one last time, and hoped that Count Mirbach had enough damn sense to understand it.

"This is General Pasker at Greenwich Army Base...yes...understood...no no problems at all. Who's deploying troops?Alright, no problem sir. I'll make sure our people are ready at a moments notice to deploy...yes sir. Thank you sir. " The General Pasker had an extremely brief conversation with General Marshall who was back in New York. The rumblings of civil war in Lavenrunz had caused quite a commotion within the Federal Republic and such causes were leading to a moblization of forces across the board. Every unit which could be rapidly moblized for action was placed on reserve status. However three units would be selected and put on active status. The 57th Airborne Paratrooper Division, the 117th Airborne Paratrooper Division and the 256th Medium Tank Airmobile Battalion all stationed at Greenwich Army Base were the unfortunate few. A total of 8,000 troops and 150 pieces of armor and various other equipment was to be prepared as soon as possible.

The air force already was coordinating the advance wave of aircraft it would take to divert SAM batteries, and fighters away from the transports, which themselves would be escorted by AC-130 Spectre and Gunships to further draw fire while laying down a supportive base of fire upon anyone foolish enough to fire on the transports. The tanks would be a completely different story C-5 Galaxy Transports would need to be used to move the M5 Rolling Thunders the heavier of the two tanks which would be used, while regular C-130s would drop the M551 Sherdian Light Tanks and the other trucks and support equipment with the ParaDivs themselves.

The Colonels of the 57th and 117th had met with General Pasker to discuss strategy while Major Tucker had to be sought out. The CO of the 256th Tank Battalion was on holiday leave along with 30% of the rest of the military and while normally that was a good thing in times of certain conflict leave was always decreased down to 7% for morale reasons. The Press Secretary had imposed a blackout on the news agencies to keep them from printing or saying anything or real importance. The reasons were told fold, the first of which being the people were on vacation and did not want to hear of war and the second being that the last time NYNJ involved itself in a civil war in a SATO country it lost more Paratroopers than it would have liked to...of course the same mistakes would not be made again and tanks would be dropped this time around.

Horror and shock was the reaction of the other people in the car; those around were merely confused until people began to notice as the man was running away that blood and thicker matter were dripping down the windows of the car.
"Murderer! Assassin!" cries were heard, but the confusion was too great.
Civil Guards jumped onto the hood of vehicles before the lights could change and blew shrill whistles; one fired a submachinegun into the air, and they began to control the situation. Others, listening grimly to hysterical reports of the direction of the murderer, took off that way, barking into radios.
But Admiral von Schellenburg, hero of the Channel Islands, was dead.

Astra, Lavenrunz

I bet you do.

But Raven would not conduct herself with less than courtesy, here. "Thank you, General," she said. "I presume you are here to escort us to our residence? I should like to rest."

The General bowed politely. "But of course, your Highness." he nodded, and a young woman with unusually dark hair for a Lavenrunzian came forward, bowing in turn. "This is Captain Una Zimmermann, she will see to it that you reach your lodgings. If there is anything you need, please call upon her. And you will also be provided with a military escort, lest anything unpleasant occur." he looked meaningfully into Raven's eyes for a moment.


To: General Schlabel, minister of war.
From: Knootoss military command
Encryption: SATOencrypt Delta-4

The DDR is still loyal to the Royal family and will help to stop this illegitimate coup. For security purposes we cannot disclose information on our forthcoming actions for fear that this transmission is intercepted.

We urgently need information on the military status of the grand cannons guarding the Lavenrunzian coast. There is confusion as to who controls them. Have they been captured or are they still in loyalist (Menelmacari) hands? This matter bears the highest urgency.

Thank you for your information. Long live the Empress!

~Secure Transmission Code D-4~
To: General de Kaste
From: General Hans Schlabel
The grand cannon, I am informed, is safely in our hands but the troops there are potentially vulnerable to outside attack, as flanking Imperial Marine bases have gone over to the enemy. It is our intention to reinforce as soon as possible.
God Save the Empress.

The Hague, Knootoss
Ambassador Gottwald was very curious about the maps but said little, bowing and inquiring politely about van Mierlo's family and health and so on.
However, in a manner rather rushed for a Lavenrunzian he said, "Herr Minister, I regret to report that the Government in Lavenrunz is not in posession of the capital. However, I have brought you the last transmission I had from Foreign Minister von Konigsmark, which reads as follows: That you are formally requested to be ready to provide assistance to loyalist forces. It is also stated in the transmission that Ienotheisa or Menelmacar are likely staging points."

Count Mirbach's Chancery Office, Hofburg, Lavenrunz


De-encoding
FROM: Tilda's Flower Shop!
TO: Client, Count Mirbach

Hello Future Client, we are third party interested in your cause! We hope to be able to help you in any way we can. We have various means of dealing with your problems, some very advanced and others easy to find at your local store. All of these are at cheap and afforable prices! For example, we have various kinds of flowers, such as the Anne Kitson flower, a wonderful plant that comes in 47 varieties. We also have some imitation Star Fire Plants, all they need is some special fertilizer and they'll make your neighbors burn with envy. In addition, we also have an easy to find plant, some Quickbloomer Dandelion! Named so because of their knack of blooming quite quickly, almost like it were combusting! These come in all shapes and sizes, why some can take up entire gardens! We also have other, more exotic plants.

Hope to hear from you soon!
~Tilda's Flower Shop Owner


To: Tilda's Flower Shop Owner
Your offer is very interesting. We are very interested in flowers and plants of many sorts, but some of the ones you describe would perhaps be better used by some friends I could name in either Knootoss or Ienotheisa. Of course, these are not experts, such as might be nationally recognized, but rather more common sorts, laymen if you will, but with an artistic bent that might be further developed. I would be happy to act as a go between if I were to receive some idea of means of delivery and a price range.
With great interest
From: Count Mirbach

Heavily coded message from the Kalessin Ministry of Peace to Count Mirbach:

"Watching your glorious revolution from afar, we have rejoiced in the fact that finally the people of Lavenrunz have decided to throw off the Menelmacari yoke, and take back their freedom. However, it has come to our attention that the Elentari may not share our feelings, and may attempt to re-enslave you by force. Therefore, we of the Empire are willing to offer limited military aid, should you issue a formal request for such. Naturally, once Lavenrunz self-rule is secure, we, unlike the elven scum, will be willing to depart your soil immediately. Should this whole affair come to an election, we will of course be most happy to help fund your campaign."

To the Minister of Peace
I am very touched on behalf of the people of Lavenrunz, and due to recent buildups in foreign lands must ask if you are able to prepare an expeditionary force to support us.
Furthermore, it may be necessary for Lavenrunz to join the Reich/Arda/GDODAD treaty for our own protection from our oppressors. If this becomes so, it is my hope that the Emperor's government might find its way to sponsoring us into that alliance.
With all amity
Count Mirbach

[I should probably tag this...]

[My post will go here later. For now, *tag*]

"Ok... So, just about half of our allies move to help Lavenrunz and we are doing exactly... nothing?" The general looked at the vidscreen, almost... dazzed, most definitely surprised.
"Yes." Came the answer. He never heard of this... this man, but he claimed to close to Griffith. And considering the fact that he got connected, it was true. "You see, this is a time... a time of great deeds... A time that will change anything. We, as well as the Lavenrunzians, are part of this... 'New time', and we need to be careful..." He smiled again. "Don´t worry... your... and our time... will come."

---

From: White Hawk Ltd., DA, Griffith
To: Count Mirbach:
Subject: The current situation

"I`m perfectly aware that you do not know it... However, it is important for you to know that not all the foreigners in Lavenrunz are your enemies. Not all of them are elves, sucking the bölood of mankind.

I, for example, understand your motives, and it is time that the strong unite, rtaher than saving the weak.

Our future will be bright. You took steps that i, foolishly, refused to take, at least until now.

I`m not as far as you are, there is work that needs to be done, to make sure that my people will follow me. However, as far as i can i will help you.

Sincerely,

Griffith

Griffith smiled when he send the message. However, he knew it was a risk. Yes, the people were... unsatisfied with their position in the 'Elven hegenomy', however... siding with Arda, as he planned, or even with The Reich... Impossible. They wouldn`t follow him. Not to mention that even his own men... the soldiers, mercenaries he employed... Well, they remembered the time of the Red Bracelet war, they remembered how the Lavenrunzian sacrificed themselves for DA. Unlike him, they might have feelings that would forbid them to side with Mirbach...

I have to clean up.

"Ladies, gentlemen," the bunker below the Internal Security Agency's special holding facility, in the depths of the desert of Sal-Var, was well lit. on the table was a two dimensional holograph of details regarding the Lavenrunz civil war, "I'm sure you gave been keeping up to date with developments," said the voice, belonging to the ISA's Supreme Director. "The Confederacy has no real interest in Lavenrunz, although we would prefer the government of Claudia der Waal. More importantly, we are under orders to obtain this man," he pressed a button on a remote in his hand, and an image of Mirbach replaced the more general data "Mirbach, leader of the opposition, and return him here if possible for interrogation and execution, otherwise he's to be terminated on site. Tonight you will be directing our human agents in the Tareldanore embassy to move to Lavenrunz, and attempt to infiltrate the rebels.

"Their objective is to locate the leadership of the insurrection, and co-ordinate a raid, if necessary using loyalist or foreign interventionist forces, but hopefully using Confederate staff, in order to extract the target. We currently have three specialised teams enroute to the embassy, if possible they will return the goods to our current location. Questions?"

A woman at the table spoke, "What's the projected probability of success here?"

"Less than ten percent."

"And successfully killing him?"

"Eighteen, if our first attempt fails, we shall repeat it, this operation now has maximum priority. We have also gained the complicity of the Foreign Ministy to attempt to gain ties with the rebels we can exploit."

-=-=-=-=-=-=-

At pretty much the same time, a communication was sent, addressed to the Chancellor of Lavenrunz, Mirbach.

[code:1:a35e143488]From: Sir S Palmer, Confederacy of the C'tan, Permanent under secretary of foreign affairs.
To: Chancellor Mirbach, Lavenrunz.
Subject: Election.

I am writing to apologise for the potentially offensive comments given by Senator Frost, previously. There appears to be a problem regarding the official government position on your movement. As such I have authorised the expenditure, by way of apology, funds of one hundred million credits, to go towards your impending election campaign,

Yours,
Sir Steven Palmer.[/code:1:a35e143488]

{Tag; For Postage Purposes}

Admiral Tachteberg looked gravely at the body bag containing his former commander in chief. He crossed himself; the staff officers and medics present did likewise. Turning on the Ministry of Information Area Director, he snapped, "No sign of the assassin--the commander in chief of the Armed Services in Ienotheisa murdered on a public street! What the hell are you still doing here?"
"Y-your Excellency..." sputtered the man. "Really, I--"
"Where are the Admiral's dispatches?" demanded Tachteberg.
An aide handed him a blood spattered envelope.
He took a deep breath and opened the seal.
"Sir--shouldn't you wait for confirmation of your command?" protested Commander Klimt, Operations.
He looked at her gravely. "There is a state of emergency."
He read the orders carefully. "I see that we are required to advise personnel of the Empress' imprisonment by an alien government and then put to sea."
The operations officer turned pale. "But your Excellency!" she protested. "My God...you're--"
She stopped as both the intelligence and signals staff stood beside the Admiral. All three of them drew pistols.
"Admiral, you would aim a pistol at a fellow officer?"
"It deeply pains me to do so." he replied. "Please place your hands over your head while I call for the guard. Commander, I know you are a brave woman and so I must ask you to do nothing foolish."
"I am ashamed to see that you wear the same uniform as I." she replied.
Tachteberg raised an eyebrow. "I am not a mere traitor, Commander; I am a patriot who loathes what his country is becoming and will not stand on ceremony and proceedure to do what is right for crown and nation."

Once they were put away, Tachteberg took a moment to pray.
The truth was, he had no special loathing for Menelmacar; he saw them as comrades. But to hear his country spoke of as a puppet, to see the once mighty alliance it had built disintegrate...and he knew it had been Menelmacar's insistence that had demanded an end to any attempt at peace and friendship with the Reich.
No. His resolve hardened. What he was to do, he was prepared to do gladly.
He sent a series of secure communications to General Franze in Astra, requesting that Lavenrunzian satellites be prepared to support his intentions.
At the commanders' meeting, he met with junior admirals, captains, generals of the army and air force to explain the situation. Prince von Seydlitz spoke for much of the army.
Rising, the lean faced aristocrat said, "Excellency, I intend to follow the Will of Empress Joanna which is now embodied in the rule and Government of Empress Aurora."
Von Tachteberg bowed gravely. "Your Serene Highness must do what conscience bids--but surely we should avoid spilling the blood of fellow countrymen to excess? There is the possibility of an armistice--I hope we can wait till that resolves itself."
Prince von Seydlitz considered this and replied, "Very well, I will wait--provided that you wait as well, and do not engage loyalist forces on the coasts, by air or by sea until engaged yourself--until we know whether there will be a negotiated resolution or not."
Von Tachteberg knew that von Seydlitz had seen that most of the naval people were convinced, and that most of the air force units in Ienotheisa were for logistics support, not tactical units. But he also knew that von Seydlitz was a cunning commander and not to be trusted as an enemy. Nevertheless...this was the game he was committed to. With a sigh, he bowed, and von Seydlitz returned it and with the loyalists departed the room.
Captain von Bulow was senior among the loyalists in the Ienotheisan Fleet. He would not forget that it was Menelmacari gravships that had come to his aid when his convoy had been under attack in the First Channel Islands War. He still had burn scars from an attack by Kalessin.
"I will, with your permission, withdraw, Admiral." he said coldly.
Von Tachteberg eyed him narrowly. "Do so now, Captain."
Their exchange of salutes was bleakly formal, but a mere handful of junior captains left with von Bulow.
Tachteberg had eight carrier groups under his command still, two submarine squadrons and an amphibious squadron. He gave orders for them to put out to sea within the fifty mile limit from Ienotheisa.
An hour later, he stood on the bridge of the Bretwalda, watching Freiburg dwindle to a mere haze.

Hofburg, Lavenrunz

The Leutnant glanced at the woman journalist. "Lavenrunz, whatever you foreigners--no offense--might think--is built on trust. Wiser heads than mine gave the orders, I can tell you that." his face shone. "I would die for my Empress--die for her."

In the Chancery, Count Mirbach frowned at the letter from C'Tan.
"They apologize?" he muttered to himself. Apprehension filled him. He had really liked it better when they were hurling invective. Nevertheless, he called for one of his secretaries with some knowledge of that rather strange nation.
However, he did pen a reply to Der Angst.
To: White Hawk Ltd, DA, Griffith
From: Count Joachim von Mirbach, Acting Chancellor of Lavenrunz
I receive your offer of friendship with great pleasure. It is none of the intention of Lavenrunz to pose a danger to anyone but those who would destroy our way of life and our freedom. We have a long standing treaty with Der Angst and intend to abide by it. Our new ambassador will fill you in on the details of our political plans insofar as they will affect our commerce and diplomacy.
Many thanks and the greatest respects to you.

Military Status Report

Hofburg: (south Central Lavenrunz)
IInd Army Corps under General von Baden (Christian-Nationalist)
- 19th Mechanized Division
- 8th Infantry Division (heading out of the city towards the coast)
- 6th Armored Division (moving into the countryside)
- 41st Aviation Brigade
- 15th Anti-Aircraft Brigade
- 2nd Artillery Regiment
26th Tactical Fighter Wing (Feuerkatz Fighter-Bombers)

Mirenburg: (coast, south central, about twenty miles from Zwoll)
I Army Corps under General Baroness von Heidenstamm (Christian-Nationalist)
- Guards Division
- 4th Infantry Division
- 16th Mechanized Division
1st Tactical Fighter Wing (Feuerkatz Fighter-Bombers)
1 Rocket Corps Missile Battalion

Zwoll: (central coast, about fifty miles from Hofburg)
1st Imperial Marine Division under General Hans Dietrich (Christian-Nationalist)
Naval Air Station with two Feuerkatz Fighter Squadrons
1 Rocket Corps Missile Battalion

Atlach: (northern coast, near Menelmacari/Ienotheisan border)
12th Landwehr Division under General Viktor von Hotzendorff (Loyalist)
1 Rocket Corps Missile Battalion
Imperial Jaeger Regiment

Carlsbad: (northern Lavenrunz, fifty-five miles south of Atlach, thirty miles north of Zwoll)
9th Infantry Division (Mountain)under General Talia von Mesmer (Christian-Nationalist)
23rd Rocket Corps Missile Battalion

Astra: (central Lavenrunz, plains 25 miles south of the Harz Mountains which surround Carlsbad)
3 Imperial Rocket Corps Regiments under General Carl Franze (Christian-Nationalist)
93rd Landwehr Division
5th Imperial Tank Corps (3 tank divisions, 1 aviation division, 1 artillery brigade)
7th Tactical Fighter Wing (Feuerkatz Fighter-Bombers)

Ienotheisa: (north and east of Lavenrunz)
Under Admiral von Tachteberg (Christian Nationalist)
- 2nd Imperial Marine Division
Under Prince von Seydlitz (Loyalist)
2nd Lavenrunzian Army
- Para-Commando Brigade
- III Army Corps (3 mechanized infantry, 1 armored division, 1 aviation brigade, 1 artillery brigade)
- V Army Corps (2 mechanized infantry, 1 mountain, 1 armored division, 1 aviation brigade, 1 artillery brigade)
- Ienotheisan Legion
9th Logistics Air Wing

The Fleets:

Home Waters Fleet (under Admiral Carlotta de Goethe, loyalist)
- 10 carrier squadrons
- 3 amphibious squadrons (1 SSBN)
- 2 submarine squadrons
- 1 minehunter squadron
- 1 patrol squadron
- 1 battalion of Seelow Commandos
(with one amphibious squadron sunk in harbour for mutiny by Admiral de Goethe)

Ienotheisan Fleet (under Admiral von Tachteberg, Christian-Nationalist)
- 8 carrier squadrons
- 3 submarine squadrons
- 1 minehunter squadron
- 1 patrol squadron
- 1 battalion of Seelow Commandos

Atlantic Fleet (under Admiral Bittner, loyalist)
- 12 carrier squadrons
- 4 submarine squadrons (2 SSBN)
- (rather than a minehunter squadron, one minehunter is added to each carrier group)

Note: Landwehr units are being called up, but it is not certain where their loyalties lie or in what numbers they will respond.
Special units that are classified and hidden as much as possible are not listed here.

<tag> for later post (maybe).

[][][][][][][]TAG[][][][][][][]

[][][][][][][]TAG[][][][][][][]

Ein just trudged along, concentrating on putting one foot in front of the other and staying alert for any signs of trouble. His eyes wandered over the group, stopping on Erica. Her face looked like it could've been cut from stone as she walked.

God, any God, how is this hitting her? Theo and I are fighting because we can't go home, but this IS her home. Everything she had, gone just like that. From noble to resistance fighter in one day. How must she be feeling...

He wished there was something he could do or say to help her, but this wasn't the time or place for such things, and even if they had a moment later he doubted Erica would appreciate anything resembling sympathy. So he turned his head forward and concentrated on putting one foot in front of the other, while he stayed alert for any signs of trouble.

*************************************************************

Situation Room

"You. Have got. To be. Shitting me." General of the Army Herbert Ablegard emphasized each part of his sentence as he spoke it.

"I shit you not," Frank Pierce, Minister of International Relations, answered. "Albert sent these orders personally before he went on his vacation. We are to take no military action."

"He's off his rocker!" Albegard growled. "They kidnapped him for Chrissakes, and he wants to let them go?"

Ablegard and Pierce were seated in their accustomed chairs at the long table where the President's Council, which included the various civilian Ministers and the General Staff of the military, discussed policy decisions. President Albert's seat was conspiciously empty. In addition to Ablegard and Pierce were Allean Hanoway, General of the Navy, Florence Washington of the Air Force, and Harry Fox, the Director of Military Intelligence.

"Let him go?" Fox repeated. "General, our military could not take on all of Lavenrunz even if all of it was home, and we have severeal units out on peacekeeping missions at the moment."

"There's a big alliance forming," Ablegard answered. "It's not like we'd be going in alone."

"Nor would Mirbach," Fox replied. "You think he hasn't gotten offers of support from other nations?"

"We can't openly intervene," Pierce sided with Fox. "The political situation is too unstable at the moment. Open outside intervention will just shore up Mirbach's position. Right now, it would be better to be diplomatic. We can send an ambassador, file a formal protest over the treatment of Albert at the Ball, and talk to them. We'd be able to learn a hell of a lot more about the situation and what our options really are."

"You said we can't openly intervene..." Allean Hanoway said in her quiet voice. As if on cue, all heads turned towards Fox.

"Do the diplomatic thing first," Fox said after a moment. "Give me a cover to work with, then I'll see what I can do."

Encrypted message:

"To the Lavenrunzian forces supporting Princess Aurora, I would like to send many men and war effort to help your rightful cause, but we are in martial law and state of war right now with foreign countries, and I fear that you won't appreciate a direct involvement of foreigners in your internal affairs. However, after being asked by the Heir to the Everqueen and Imperial Chancellor Aliria D´Hyru to help you in any way I could, I´m offering you the help of the Corps Guard of the Hyral House, warriors trained in the elven ways of stealth and guile, equipped with the top of the Aelosian technology, Ellösar cloaking devices and Pulse ShadowBolt Carbines. They are my personal guard and the finest soldiers of this realm. If you accept our help, although I doubt it, I'll send them with secrecy as fast as I can"

ShadowPrince Kithail Hyral.

OOC: And this is a TAG too, I usually economize effort, time and space.

Up close, the fabled Grand Cannon was like a beached whale. The garrison town of Luneburg was wreathed in smoke and flames.
Infantry scampered alongside apcs and picked their way through lanes and across town squares, but the garrison was overwhelmed, fleeing and demoralized under the sudden attack. Triumphant planes soared overhead through a veil of smoke.
The garrison commander, General Goetz, cursed bitterly and was found nursing a facial wound by a recon unit moving into his ruined headquarters.
"Terrorists. Damned terrorists." he muttered. "Blew up my communications equipment. Yelled, 'God is Great'. CLA, had to be."
The soldiers in the unit glanced at one another. They looked very purposeful.
One of them said, "General--"
But he had already made a decision and lunged up, holding a pistol
They all fired a quick burst, and he fell, leaking dark blood everywhere.
Cheer after cheer went up from the victorious troops.

The railroad bridge, Hofburg

Erica peered through her binoculars. There was no movement, but the sounds of vehicles could be heard. The approach was pretty naked, and once on it they had to go either way the rest of the way across.
Nothing for it. She would lead the way herself. Sometimes you had to. But some instinct had her hesitating. She examined herself ruthlessly, and it was not fear.
"Alright. This is a pretty lousy approach. Any ideas?" she asked the group.
Across the river on either side there was cover--though the side opposite them held a park, which also allowed for ambushes among the trees and hedges. At least on their side there was just the back lots of some businesses that the train would pass.

To: White Hawk Ltd, DA, Griffith
From: Count Joachim von Mirbach, Acting Chancellor of Lavenrunz
I receive your offer of friendship with great pleasure. It is none of the intention of Lavenrunz to pose a danger to anyone but those who would destroy our way of life and our freedom. We have a long standing treaty with Der Angst and intend to abide by it. Our new ambassador will fill you in on the details of our political plans insofar as they will affect our commerce and diplomacy.
Many thanks and the greatest respects to you.

Griffith sat there, in his room, alone, a few guards outside of the room.

It was dimly lit, nothing too bright... he disliked the light.

At the moment, he pondered... ways. He couldn`t act yet... Not as he wanted to act.

However, talking with the new ambassador was essential. He would have him met one of his minions... soon enough.

Soon enough.... he dreamt of glory, and a bright future, matching the time of the seven Republics...

And HE would be the one building this future.

Simon whistled as he walked past an alleyway, leading between two shops. He hurled the obvious coat he was wearing - again, laced with elven DNA - into a skip there, and his gloves. Beneath, his hands were covered in paper, and the paper ones he scrunched up and stuff in his pocket. The elf ears he removed with sleight-of-hand, pretending to cough twice. The changes were subtle, but enough to get him out of Ienoesthesia, and back to his group.

The group currently ensconced in Hofburg. They hadn't made any shows of loyalty to Mirbach, or even spoken to the Christian-Nationalists. But they were near the Chancery, having followed General von Baden's forces as they swept the area. The buildings in Hofburg were old, historical. Muddled, with odd passages, and plenty of hiding places. Their mission was to watch for any sign of paradroppers or similar infiltrators making a go for Mirbach. Four groups of two were at cardinal points around the Chancery, and a further six groups were patrolling the sewers beneath Hofburg - or trying, at least. It was unexplored territory for them.

In Thelas, preperations were still being made, Thelasian marines preped for a naval assualt, Star Marines got ready for a parachute assualt, and Light Infantry got ready to move in and secure the main captiol.

A full scale mock up of the chancelery building, and surounding area, had been constructed. There, Thelasian Morchant Tirith troops readied for a commando raid to capture the leadership.

At Airbases, more transports were getting ready, now capable of carrying a full Army Core (500,000 Troops) with equipment and support. All of the transports were "Assualt Transports" armed with light machine guns, and re-inforced with heavy armor, these were the chariots that the first wave would ride into battle.

In the mean time, the Thrid Fleet had stopped 200 miles from Laverunz waters, while she waited, the Fifth Fleet came down from orbit, stopping next to the Third Fleet. Then, they dived below the water, waiting.

A letter - given to a small boy, paid the handsome sum of ten Menelmacari credits to drop it into the letter box just before the evening post - began the arduous journey to the Lavenrunzian military headquarters in Ienoesthesia.

"Balrogs, humans, all will fall before the might of Lady Sirithil's personal assassin.

RT."

It wasn't the subtlest of ploys, then again it wasn't aimed at implicating the cleverest of assassins.

In Thelas, preperations were still being made, now, the massive bombers were readying for launch. Massive amounts of troops were now gathered at deployment points, now, a speach was made by General Thealals Noss Dagnir. Thelasian satilites started to pivot in space, one comunications satilite stopped above Laverunz, it now broadcasted this speach across the war torn nation.

Slowly, Theallas walked to the podium, his face showing a sort of worn fatuge,

"I stand here today to speak to not only Thelas, but to the world. I first have a message for the people of Laverunz, Do not follow the lead of Ieusus Cristi. Look at this nation, supposedly a tennant of "christian moralty", this nation is an international pariah, a nation who has several requests for excomunication against it. Many nations do not even trade with them. Their people live in fear of tanks, fear of soldiers that will drag them from their beds at night. Soldiers that will rape their wives, kill their husbands, and train their children into unfeeling murders. Is that what you want for you nation? Do you want your children to grow up in fear?

Your freedoms will disapear, backed by the millitary, this new government will slowly, like an ecroching fungus, destroy your dearly held freedoms, slowly, but inexorably, do you want this?

They say the elves are Demons, servants of Lucifer, servants of The Devil, but what of this have you seen? Has every elf in Lavenrunz raped a women? Don't many humans also commit horendus crimes? So then why are elves called Demons by these fanatics? Power. That is the simple answer, they want power. Simple political power causes them to manipulate something that many people hold sacred. Even if you are not religous, does this not sicken you? That peoples most sacred beleifes are being manipulated for power?

Next, I have a message for the people of Thelas, Again we will go to war, again our sons and dautghters will go and fight. This will not be another Knootoss, this time we fight for the Liberty of others, this time, we will not fail.

Thank You"

General Theallas stepped of off the stage, and the tranmission ended.

[OOC: Co-written]

The railroad bridge, Hofburg

"The park. If we run across and disappear into that park we can be out of sight," Ein said. He was appraising the area across the bridge, his discomfort forgotten as the possibility of battle loomed ahead. "If we just keep moving, even if we're spotted and an alert is sounded we can lose ourselves in the park and be long gone by the time any sizable force arrives."

"We have no other choice." agreed Erica. "Alright. Number Two squad--I'll accompany--goes first." With that, they hurried across--clearly expecting Number One squad to cover.

Bolan already had unslung his rifle, and was using the scope to scan the rooftops and any potential hiding places across the river. So far, he didn't see anyone. Ein could see Erica stopping at the end of the bridge, covering for the others as they went into the trees. She turned and beckoned for the other unit to follow.

Ein started across with the others, Bolan hung back until they were halway across, keeping up his vigil, then shouldered his rifle and sprinted to follow. Ein's senses were even more alert than usual, as he was painfully aware of how exposed they were on this bridge. Fortunately they made it across without incident.

When all were across, Erica said quietly to the group, "We're going to use the park as cover. It goes for another two miles and then we can use a commercial district as cover--there's an outdoor mall that uses footpaths in its interior--till we get to the first sentry post."

Ein and Bolan nodded along with everyone else, then they took up a leapfrogging approach as they moved from cover to cover. Bolan would stop and use the scope of his rifle to look for trouble, then wave the others on once he'd confirmed the area clear. They were being lucky so far.

*************************************************************

The sentry post looked formidable at a glance. It was on a rise above the highway, with a path leading down to the highway where an APC sat. The squad concrete building had aerials above it, and slitlike windows. They could see four soldiers standing near the APC and the extrusion of a heavy machinegun from one of the slits. There was an identical one, they knew, where this highway met the other and led to the airport.

Bolan did more scope scouting, and snorted softly. "Idiot," he whispered to no one in particular. "The gunner in that tower's standing up behind his gun. Those slits will keep him safe from assault rifles, but this puppy can nail him right between the eyes."

Through his earpiece, he heard Warrant Muller saying, "Watch out for enemy snipers though. Could be a trap."

"Copy that, looking for them now," he replied.

Ein looked at Erica. "Alright, how are we doing this?"

"We do it like this." Erica said. "Creep up close as we can. Rocket takes out APC; sniper takes out gunner. Grenade launcher fired at the building obfuscates our approach, we put grenades in the slits."

"Works for me," Ein nodded.

Bolan came over the comm again. "Warrant Muller guessed right. Two men with high powered rifles in white camo laying in the snow just behind the outpost. There's another one a hundred feet to the left. He's very well concealed, I wouldn't have seen him if he hadn't tilted his rifle a little. I caught the reflection off his scope."

"Grenade launcher for them too." Erica whispered. She suddenly felt ill, and before she could control herself a shiver took her.

"Are you alright?" Ein asked her quietly, keeping his voice down so the other soldiers couldn't hear them.

Erica for a moment just looked at him. "No. Nothing." she said, but she was grateful that someone spoke to her. A small smile showed. Before was a desperate emergency. This is murder, she thought. "Let's do this." she said.

Ein smiled back and gave her arm a reassuring pat. "Good luck."

"I've got the gunner in my sights," Bolan said. "He's- hold on, one of the snipers is standing up. He just signaled to the APC, another guy's jumping out. Looks like they're changing the guard."

"Now. When the others come out, we hit them then!" Erica whispered intently.

"The sniper off to the left just stood and signaled too. His replacement is coming. The other one's staying down," Bolan's voice was tense. "Alright, the machine gunner just stepped away from his post." Ein took a deep breath and readied himself.

A bunch of things happened at once then. Erica dropped her hand. Werner nodded to Ein to load his rocket launcher. Then Bolan's rifle cracked. The replacement gunner had just taken the handles of the big weapon when his throat exploded. He fell to the floor, gagging. Ein loaded Werner's launcher.

WHOOSH! Roared the launcher, streaming at the APC; they could see the soldiers nearest it scattering when the rocket tore into it and gutted it.

The first gunner tried to run back to his post when the replacement collapsed. Bolan's rifle spoke again, and he dropped. "Gunners are history!" Bolan hissed into his mouthpiece.

The grenadiers fired their launchers; the moment their white phosphorus hits, the smoke swirling round the bunker, Erica herself ran up with number one squad, a grenade in her hand, flipping the pin off. Most of the sentries were caught outside and were dropping, but one or two fired from the slits; the zip zip of the bullets going past Ein.

Bolan swept left, looking for the snipers. Sure enough, a hundred feet off the replacemant man was dropping prone. Bolan cracked off a shot at him, but the bullet whizzed over his head. Hastily, the former bodyguard rolled sideways as the Marine sniper swung his rifle around to return fire. Ein loaded Werner's launcher again, then brought up his own rifle and sent a burst towards the spot where Bolan had said the other snipers were laying. Obviously at that range it wasn't likely to hit anything, but it would hopefully keep them down as Erica's team rushed the sentry post.

Werner was about to fire when the shout of "Fire in the hole!" came from Erica. The grenades went off in quick succession.

Bolan came up and moved in a crouch to a spot just behind a parked car. He laid his rifle across the back end of the vehicle, taking a deep breath as he looked for his target. The sniper's motto ran through his head. Squeeze, squeeze the trigger... A bullet streaked by his head as the other sniper reached out to kill him, but Bolan had already acquired the man. Before a second shot could be taken, his rifle roared in response.

"Clear." announced Muller. He had led his part of the team to make sure that everyone by or in the APC was dead.

Bolan swept to make sure the other snipers were gone, then grinned, straightening but not standing up yet. "Nice fight," he observed laconically over the radio.

"Is everyone okay?" Ein asked then. There were grunts and short words of confirmation. Erica motioned for the RTO. She took the phone and talked quietly for a bit. Muller motioned for people to stand lookout, and for the doc to check people.

Bolan resumed his scope surveillance, while Ein took several breaths to calm his heart. Even though he hadn't been in the direct line of fire, his comrades had. At least the fighting was over, for now. Werner motioned to Ein and handed him his rocket launcher, then quickly rifled through the webbing of one of the dead marines.

"Werner, you sick bastard." muttered one of the Jaegers.

"Hey, Restorff, you get the runs from eating power bars. I want some real food." quipped Werner.

"Hey, we'll need everything we can get," Ein defended the old man. "These guys don't need their guns anymore, be dangerous to leave them out for some kid to pick up."

"That's a good point. Let's collect extra ammo, food, med kits--any intel give to the Major," Muller said.

Bolan began walking around gathering up the M40s the snipers had been using. He paused to look at the guy he'd dueled with, and made a face. "Well, this gun will need a new scope," he said, hefting the man's rifle. The scope was shattered all the way through, apparantly Bolan had been more accurate than he intended.

Erica came over. "The attack on the other one was successful--now we need to support the attack on--"

There was a loud explosion from back the way they had came. Erica listened to her earpiece and grinned. "Okay, Faber's blown the bridge. Now we need to move on to attack the anti-aircraft unit, got it?"

"Party time!" Bolan grinned, putting the extra rifle with the pile of supplies the other team members were gathering.

"What are we looking at there?" Ein asked.

"It's a base. Checkpoints, razor wire, covered emplacements for the anti-aircraft weapons. I guess there's twenty four of them and they're self propelled. As well as that there are four command vehicles and then a covering company of infantry. Mechanized, but lightly; Hum-Vees and scout vehicles," Erica answered.

"Sounds easy enough. Any defenses on the perimeter, or is everything at the entrance?" Ein asked.

"There are regular foot patrols." replied Erica.

"Not for long," Bolan patted his rifle. "Any chance of circling around then, and cutting through the wire somewhere?" Ein inquired.

"That would be best." agreed Erica. "The approach then would be through a field--but it will be fallow right now."

"Then we stay low and we shouldn't have any trouble," Ein grinned. "With any luck, if we catch them off guard maybe we can force a surrender. That I think would be preferable to shooting it out with the whole base garrison."

"True enough." agreed Erica. "Alright. Warrant Muller, anything else?"

"Everyone recovered enough ammo, grenades?" he asks. Bolan and Ein gave affirmitives.

"Alright, let's go." Erica said. "Stick to the off road areas but move quickly."

In the "basement" of the Thelas Government building, (One of Thelas' three major command centers, think NORAD), officers wearing headsets sat at their computers, watching anything and everything that went on, one of the officers ripped out a sheet of paper, writen on it was this:

Treznor
Sentient Peoples
Milantos
Syskeyia
Dread Lady Nathicana
Knootoss
The Ctan
Drakonian Imperium
Glorious Humanity

He walked up a set of stairs to a large platform, reaching into te center of the room, he then handed the paper to Commander Netari who was looking at the massive veiw screens, one of them showed a massive map of Laverunz, in dotted lines, it showed attack plans, in soldid numbers and symbols, it showed allied, enemy, and unknown forces.

"Sir, you saw the speach?"
"Yes, I just made a responce."
"Yes Sir, I saw it. Should I ask General Theallas for orders?"
"No, I know what he would want us to do now."

Netari walked to the tip of the platform, he adressed all the people in the room, ""All right every one, listen up" the noisy room went quiet, "We all just saw that speach, well, you also all saw my speach. I was not just talking, every one, we are now a Defcon 1, all personel to Battle Stations, inform all vessels, commence operation Light Sheild!"

Soon, at the massive bases across Thelas, the fleet of transports left bases, at first un-observed, then, people noticed the transports flying across the nation, and then the ocean. Now, 500,000 troops were flying twoards Lavenrunz.

"Count Mirbach," the Minister for War said, "We are being invaded. By Thelas."
"I see." Mirbach smiled. "In spite of international law, the elves have attacked."
"They're like...the elves' younger annoying cousin." said the foreign minister tactfully.
"Oh, this is too good! Thank you, Lord, for your infinite mercy! And arrange a conference call with Prince von Seydlitz and Admiral de Goethe!"

From Count Mirbach to all forces in Lavenrunz.

There is no time for fancy words. We are fortunately in a state of readiness--as we are about to be invaded! Thelas has prepared a vast expeditionary force within two days. Two days? You are officers of a world power. You know this is not possible. This nation of elves has been planning this invasion for months! Supposedly this is to supplant me--then why was there only threats and then action? He means to conquer Lavenrunz!
I ask that we set aside our differences! I ask only that we act together, to save our country! As we had planned to do in case of any invasion, we will do now.
For God, for Crown, for Country, let us meet the enemy!"

Within minutes of broadcast another Thelasian message went out, it was Commander Netari again,

"So I see that the irational murderer shows his true face. If our esteemed butcher on the other side would care to even think about things, Thelas is an elven nation and ally of Aelosia, correct? Thelas will have to assist Aelosia in a war against Morgoth right? Morgoth has been captured, correct? Morgoths' force are about to attack, right? Thus, Thelas has been on high alert, we have about 2,000,000 troops on ready alert, Thelas is a warlike nation, we are almost always on Defcon 2. This is the reason, and also, why would we plan to invade a close ally? An ally that we need to help us in SATO lobying? Why would we make one more enemy? Especialy when another War of Rath is coming so soon?"

When Netari got back to the command center, he turned to Force Commander Amaurea, "He makes a good point, I want to make sure that we have good supply lines, also, find out who the loyalist leaders are, and get me in contact with them."

The female Force Commander nodded, "Yes Sir, I will get to work imediatly."

{High-End Encryption Package #421: Diplomatic Communique to Thelas}
{RE: Lavenrunz Situation}
{FROM: Empress the Supreme Commander Rialla ux-Rihad II}
{TO: General Theallas}

{Communique Commences}

General, in case my following words are misunderstood in some way:

THIS IS NOT A REQUEST.

The Empire desires that you back down, and withdraw your committed forces immediately, and alter your foreign policy to match that of the enlightened portions of the international community. In other words: realign your intent. International policy currently appears to be one of non-interference; you are in direct opposition to that policy. Withdraw.

I warn you: you are damaging a state in which EOTED has a long-term vested interest. You are impinging on what was once firmly within our SoI. Whether Lavenrunz is still the ally of EOTED that it once was is irrelevant: we consider them so - and thusly, so do you.

Withdraw, and step back from this disgusting act of treachery - we are quite content to assume that this is an invasion attempt made during a time of great stress and strife for Lavenrunz - or face the consequences.

~ Sealed,

Rialla ux-Rihad II, The Supreme Commander of the Imperial Defense Forces;
Semir-randil ux-Tumnore I, The Commander-in-Chief of the Imperial Defense Forces;
Ax-randiri Rihad, The Under-Commander-in-Chief of the Imperial Defense Forces;

The Combined Seal of the Executive Council of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn;
The Seal of the Imperial House;
The Seal of the Citizens House;
The Combined Seal of Her Majesties Government of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn

{Communique Terminates}

The message sent back to EOTED was as ointed as the EOTED message,

"Thelas also considers this a threat to security. We cannot allow a Reich sided Lavenrunz to exist. You treaty was with the old regime, not with this new one. As I stated in my broadcast, Thelas will not let this stand. I can urge you that once order has been restored, the old government will also be restored. Thelas also has interests, I urge you to avoid the appearance of supporting the Reich, an orginasation that hates your people as well as mine. Yet, as a man interested in diplomacy, I will halt the invasion force."

Commander Netari

Off of the coast, the Thelasian transports stopped, and went underground.

"What the Hell?" D'ron said, watching the monitors. "What the fuck does that idiot think he is doing?"

The officers in the command room grimaced. Not a single one of them had ever heard the President use that kind of language before. And only once had some of them seen his eyes look like that... the day he found out who had been commiting the nuclear terrorism that led to the fall of the Regional Alliance.

D'ron's eyes quickly cleared, grimacing in regret for his langauge, but it was not something he would ever vocalize an apology for.

But it didn't matter as the snap of command returned to his voice. "Get me a wide band uplink to the forces from Thelas."

After a mere moment. "Done, Mister President." D'ron began speaking clearly, transmitted on every frequency that the Federation used, unencrypted.

"Commander Netari, Thelas Fleet. This will be our only request to you. Stand down from his insane crusade you have embarked yourself upon. You say you seek to ally with Lavenrunz, yet you are about to make war upon them. If you do this, not only will you fail to gain entrance to SATO, as you so expressly desire, anyone but a fool could predict that, but you will simply prove Mirbach right. For everyone's sake, allow the people of Lavenrunz, and their government, to work this matter out on their own. If you do not, I cannot say where your future may lie, but it will not lay in the Final Conflict."

The message sent back to EOTED was as ointed as the EOTED message,

"Thelas also considers this a threat to security. We cannot allow a Reich sided Lavenrunz to exist. You treaty was with the old regime, not with this new one. As I stated in my broadcast, Thelas will not let this stand. I can urge you that once order has been restored, the old government will also be restored. Thelas also has interests, I urge you to avoid the appearance of supporting the Reich, an orginasation that hates your people as well as mine. Yet, as a man interested in diplomacy, I will halt the invasion force."

Commander Netari

Off of the coast, the Thelasian transports stopped, and went underground.

{Encrypted Communique}

Irrelevant. Withdraw.

~ Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II

{Communique Terminates}

OOC: Where I posted "underground" on that last post, forget that, I mean underwater.

IC: Netari stood looking at the veiw screens, stunned, the Area Commander looked at him, "Should I call the force back?"

Netari looked at the commander stunned, in a small while, Netari could hear soldiers walking down the stairs, then, silence all though the room, a soft clickick noise echoed through the room, General Theallas spoke in a murderusly calm voice, "Allright commander, please explain to me why I just got the equivalent of diplomatic hate mail?"

"Well, Sir, I sent in the troops to Lavenrunz" "WHAT?! You did WHAT? Alright Netari step back, untill further notice, you are now on 'administrative leave'."

A minute later, a open band diplomatic message was sent to EOTED and Sentient Peoples, "This is General Theallas, I appologise for the rash actions of my subordinates. I was talking to several diplomats from smaller provinces. The invasion fleets are turning back now. I assure you, this will not happen again.

~General Theallas Nos Dagnir"

Theallas turned to look at Netari and said to himself, "Just when I get a hold of diplomacy, my officers seem to lose common sence..."

OOC: Where I posted "underground" on that last post, forget that, I mean underwater.

IC: Netari stood looking at the veiw screens, stunned, the Area Commander looked at him, "Should I call the force back?"

Netari looked at the commander stunned, in a small while, Netari could hear soldiers walking down the stairs, then, silence all though the room, a soft clickick noise echoed through the room, General Theallas spoke in a murderusly calm voice, "Allright commander, please explain to me why I just got the equivalent of diplomatic hate mail?"

"Well, Sir, I sent in the troops to Lavenrunz" "WHAT?! You did WHAT? Alright Netari step back, untill further notice, you are now on 'administrative leave'."

A minute later, a open band diplomatic message was sent to EOTED and Sentient Peoples, "This is General Theallas, I appologise for the rash actions of my subordinates. I was talking to several diplomats from smaller provinces. The invasion fleets are turning back now. I assure you, this will not happen again.

~General Theallas Nos Dagnir"

Theallas turned to look at Netari and said to himself, "Just when I get a hold of diplomacy, my officers seem to lose common sence..."

{Encrypted Communique}

Apology accepted. See that it does not happen again, if you please.

~ Ambassador Dejure

{Communique Terminates}

Following intensive negotiations between the Empire of the Eternal Dawn, the Federation of Sentient Peoples, and General Thealas, the Thelassians have agreed to withdraw their forces. We would like to stress that the Thelassians had the best interests of all involved at heart, but even the best intentions can go awry. Thelas will now yield to the international policy of non-interference with regards to the Lavenrunzian Civil War.

I would like this oppurtunity to point out that the willingness of the Thelassian's to withdraw - without the threat of military action or any other form of pressure by EOTED and FSP, but instead via the use of calm and careful negotiation and explanation - is a great symbol of the falsness of the claim by Count Mirbach that the Thelassians were planning to invade, and had been planning such an invasion for some time. Had an invasion been planned, the Thelassians would have been singuarly unwilling to back down - and waste the resources they had allocated to such a venture.

The truth of General Thealas' words are, as the saying goes, in the pudding. When it became clear to the noble General that military action would only harm the People of Lavenrunz, and not protect them, he altered his course accordingly; this is the way of all great leaders, and, despite previous rash actions by the Thelassians, the Empire expresses its hope that the Thelassians are making bold progress in their efforts to become a respected and fully integrated member of the international community.

The Empire will continue its path of non-interference regarding the Civil War in Lavenrunz, but does feel the need to note that the rash scaremongering by Count Mirbach is surely counter-productive to the wellbeing of the People of Lavenrunz; we surely all hope and trust that the best wishes of the People of Lavenrunz are close to the Count's heart, and shall remain so for the forseeable future, as indicated by his preferably calm and careful reactions to the often volatile maneuverings of international politics.

To a future of peace and stability we trust,

~ Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II

"Theallas the Hotheaded launched another crusade, this time against the rebels of Lavenrunz", smiled the Royal advisor, the Phaelos House Duke.

"I suppose he wants to save the people of Lavenrunz by killing them. That's the usual Thelassian logic. At least he withdrew before something awful happened" said the ShadowPrince, clenching his fist. "Send again our offer of aid to the Lavenrunzian authorities, at least we deserve an answer".

OOC: I (OOCly) want to kill that Phaelos Duke...

“Sir? What shall we do about the Lavenrunzian situation? Not only for their sake, but ours as well, it is so nearby.” Keldan asked Shaul.
“Yes you are right, we have let this go on for to long without aiding them. Send two armies to assist the loyalists.” Shaul said as if it was nothing.
“But sir, the loyalists wont join the Reich and Arda.” Keldan replied confused.
“We need to remain on Menelmacar’s good side, if we do nothing wrong, they won’t be able to harm us. Besides I got bigger plans.” He said and grinned mischievously.


To: Minister of War, General Hans Schlabel
From: Protector of Diablo_NL, Shaul Fiacre
Subject: Loyalist Aid
The civil war in Lavenrunz has gotten our attention. Lavenrunz is so nearby to our nation and we do not wish to see such instability, as well as seeing the rightful and honourable government of Lavenrunz overthrown.
Therefore we are dispatching forces to assist you in witch ever way. They shall make landing in loyalist held northern shores as soon as possible.

Fight long and hard, with honour.

OOC: I (OOCly) want to kill that Phaelos Duke...

OOC: You should try it...But he seldom leaves the Prince's side. He's like the embodiment of the Dark side that remains in Aelosia. A very, very bad guy...

The Hague, Knootoss
Ambassador Gottwald was very curious about the maps but said little, bowing and inquiring politely about van Mierlo's family and health and so on.
However, in a manner rather rushed for a Lavenrunzian he said, "Herr Minister, I regret to report that the Government in Lavenrunz is not in posession of the capital. However, I have brought you the last transmission I had from Foreign Minister von Konigsmark, which reads as follows: That you are formally requested to be ready to provide assistance to loyalist forces. It is also stated in the transmission that Ienotheisa or Menelmacar are likely staging points."

The Hague, Knootoss
"This we will do," said the Knootian minister. "As soon as such is needed. You know that we are a peaceable nation. Our Prime Minister has just launched an attempt to solve this conflict peacefully, without the need for foreign intervention. (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=111124)

He explained the initiative carefully, hoping that Ambassador Gottwald would understand. "Should the attempt fail though, and there is a good chance it that it will fail, we will assist loyalist forces in restoring control. We have several plans outlined at this point..."

Important!
An attempt to resolve this peacefully:
http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=111124

Hofburg, Lavenrunz
Ursie, the journalist woman nodded: "and what have you heard about the situation from the Empress herself? And, if I may ask, what is your final objective?"

(OOC: Ravenspire here. Events in this post were cleared with Jo previously. Jo, if you need to alter some dialogue, description, or such, feel free to do so.)

Astra, Lavenrunz

The General bowed politely. "But of course, your Highness." he nodded, and a young woman with unusually dark hair for a Lavenrunzian came forward, bowing in turn. "This is Captain Una Zimmermann, she will see to it that you reach your lodgings. If there is anything you need, please call upon her. And you will also be provided with a military escort, lest anything unpleasant occur." he looked meaningfully into Raven's eyes for a moment.


"I trust it will not, in a city which you control," Raven said blandly. "If you would be so kind...?"

"Right this way," Una replied.

The royals were conveyed quickly to a manor house near the outskirts of town -- but not so quickly that Raven did not notice, during the journey, a number of military units patrolling the streets. Business went on, yet the crowds were somewhat less extensive than they might otherwise have been.

The house itself was small in comparison to the palaces of Hofburg, but there were no such structures in Astra, and it was still quite large by most standards. An extensive yard and gardens surrounded the manor, which was bordered by nearly-identical houses, the nearest of which was a hundred meters away. Arrayed around the manor were two full companies of infantry. Raven immediately discared any notion of running.

Instead, she simply went into the house, bathed, and slept. Thankfully, she was accorded a measure of privacy for these functions, though there were guards stationed outside the door and, in the latter case, sentries watching the balcony.

Raven awakened refreshed and spent most of the day in the library, reading. The collection was not so extensive as the palace's, but it was substantial, and she had plenty of material to choose from. She selected a biography of an empress three centuries past, a history of Estavia, and a text on astronomy, and worked her way through the first two and most of the third in between meals.

On the following day, at breakfast, she asked Carl, "What's the big building near the spaceport? The one about ten degrees to its left and a little bit closer, as you look out from the library window."

It took a moment for Carl to come up with the answer. "Unless I've misunderstood, you're speaking of the aerospace museum."

"There's one here? I guess that makes sense..."

"That's right; you haven't visited Astra."

"I'd like to see that." She glanced at Una. "Will you take me?"

The captain hesitated slightly. "It may not be safe, Highness."

"But you're in control here, not like the capital. So nothing can happen if you're with me, right?"

"Well..." Finally, she nodded. "Very well. With an escort, I suppose it is reasonable. However, we should not take chances. We will return before dark."

Raven nodded. "I'll get my coat."

-=-=-=-=-=-

She had dressed casually for the occasion, in jeans and turtleneck plus her overcoat and hat. The escort -- two soldiers; they could not crowd her too much -- was likewise dressed in plainclothes. Captain Zimmerman must have been well-known, however, for the group was not harassed by any of the three military groups they passed during the lengthy drive.

Raven checked her coat and hat and began to wander through the museum, accompanied by her guards; they remained as unobtrusive as possible while at least one stayed near her at all times. But for her part, she paid little attention to them. Her attention was on the displays. She spent over half an hour before a disassembled engine from an early propeller plane, studying the way in which the numerous pieces would fit together. Almost as long a time was dedicated to a restored biplane. The sleek lines of a fighter jet of a decade past claimed twenty minutes. "Maybe I should learn to fly," she murmured at one point, seemingly unaware she had spoken aloud. Her guards did not reply.

"Excuse me for a moment," she said quietly, heading toward a restroom. The nearer of the guards nodded and took up a position casually leaning against a railing near the door, apparently engrossed in a detail of a two-decade-old military transport's control panel.

She nearly missed it, but somehow the opportunity caught her eye. There was a window. It was high on the wall, and wouldn't open very far, but it just might be possible...

She had no time to delay. A quick glance to make sure the facility was currently empty, and then Raven was at the wall, reaching on tiptoes to open the window as wide as it would go. She stepped back, took a running start, and leapt, grabbing the top of the sill and swinging her legs up...

For a heartstopping moment, she was caught. Then something tore, and she slid through, just barely. Had she not had the slight build of a dancer, it would have been impossible; as it was, it was still uncomfortable, and she'd probably bruised a hip, and possibly an arm. And one of the belt loops on her jeans had broken.

But she was out!

And she was falling. The restroom had been on the second floor. She landed on her feet, slid, and fell on her butt. She forced herself up again, and into motion. Soon, the guards would become impatient. One of them would check, and they would be after her immediately afterward. She had to be well away before then.

Plus, if she hurried, she might feel less cold. She felt a momentary pang of regret for having to leave her coat behind. But the opportunity might not have come again. She had to try.

A left, a right, a left... a patrol of soldiers at the next intersection. She ducked into an alleyway, hurried along past the back of a restaurant and a condemned brownstone. A quick glance backward; they weren't following her--

She bumped into something solid as she turned, and was rebounded backward a step. She'd run into a young man, she quickly saw; late teens or early twenties, perhaps, rather well-built, his pale hair cropped short. He wore a brown leather jacket with a white bird emblem at the shoulder.

"I'm sorry," Raven said. "Are you all right?"

"It talks," he answered, affecting an expression of exaggerated surprise.

She was dimly aware of movement out of the corner of her eye, and the scratch of shoes on pavement behind her. She didn't turn. "Er, yes. Very sorry about that. Good afternoon."

"I don't know if an apology is enough." Another young man, one of those behind her. And there were at least two others, who hadn't spoken.

"No?" she asked calmly. At least, she hoped it was calm.

"I'm sure we can work something out." That was the man she'd bumped. The tone was not a pleasant one.

"What do you think the inhuman could do?" A third voice, lower and gutteral. Raven tried not to tense. There was a chuckle from the second.

"Well," the first said, pretending to put thought into it. "This one is almost human-looking. It'd be real close, except for that tail..."

There was a click behind her, followed by a quick swish. Switchblade. Not good.

"Do you like lasagna?" Raven asked the youth in front of her, keeping her eyes firmly on him. It was a nonsense question, but for a moment after he'd heard it, his concentration would be derailed. A flicker of his eyes told her when.

That moment of distraction was when she kicked him in the groin.

As he began to double over in pain, she set a hand on his shoulder, using him as a vaulting horse. The moment she touched the ground, she was off at a sprint. They were all behind her now, and she intended to keep them there.

But already there were cries of outrage behind her; they weren't giving up the chase so easily. There would be at least three of them close after her; she didn't dare look back to get a better count, and her other senses were inconclusive. Three armed men was not a chance she wanted to take. Especially not now. She ran harder.

Raven possessed great endurance, but the youths were in good shape themselves, and her options were limited. Normally, she might have gone back to a main concourse and sought out the authorities, but she didn't dare do that now. Worse, they seemed to know it. And this was an unfamiliar city; she knew only the general layout.

But she was a few meters ahead of them. Perhaps something would come up.

As it turned out, something did. She had looped around to retrace her course when, shortly after she made a turn, her arm was grabbed. Raven was yanked sideways into a building, the door closed behind her. A hand covered her mouth. Before she'd thought to bite, footsteps were pounding past outside, and she didn't dare risk the noise.

After what seemed an eternity, the noise receded. When it had been replaced by silence, a quiet voice said, "I apologize, but there wasn't time to warn you properly." The hands released her, and she turned toward her captor/savior.

She was mildly surprised to note that he was not Lavenrunzian; his complexion was darker. But, now the she thought about it, there had been an accent to his voice -- not heavy, but definite. Tsarainese, perhaps? Astra was home to many expatriates... "Thank you," she said, equally quietly."

"White Eagles are bad news," the man said with a shrug. "They're nothing but gangs of neo-Nazis, really. Ever since the trouble started, they've been free. They'll usually leave you alone if there's a soldier or a policeman nearby to see, but in these back alleys... But you're all right?"

"Thanks to you."

"It's nothing. Call it duty. You're from Ravenspire, yes?" Raven hesitated to answer, but the decision was taken from her. "Wait... black hair, and your face-- Your Highness!"

He would have bowed, and deeply, but Raven stopped him. "Yes, but... just 'Raven' here, please."

"Yes, Highness."

She managed to conceal her sigh. "Well... thank you. I'm afraid I need to go. Forgive me for stinting on pleasantries."

"But it isn't safe--"

"Nowhere is safe for me. But I must. It's a matter of duty."

"I see." He did bow this time. "Then may God speed you, Highness."

Raven managed a smile. "Thank you. I hope you'll receive good news shortly."

-=-=-=-=-=-

The receptionist looked up as the door chimed. Her professional smile slipped momentarily, revealing her surprise, but it soon reappeared. "Your Highness?" There was a note of disbelief in her voice, but the woman clearly recognized Raven, even if she was not certain what Raven was doing at a television station. "I'm sorry. A message must have been lost, or--"

"I wasn't able to send one. I'm sorry for the trouble."

"Oh, not at all! But... were you here on business, perhaps?"

"Not exactly. But I need to make a statement. Would you arrange for a live broadcast, please?"

Being a polite Lavenrunzian, she did not immediately say 'no' -- not to a member of the royal family, at least. "This is highly irregular..."

"It was unfortunately necessary." Raven was imitating the posture she'd seen Magda adopt at other occasions, and consciously employing a more formal vocabulary, as she'd been taught. "The statement regards the current troubles. It is something of an emergency." She paused, just for a moment. "You will, naturally, possess an exclusive."

"I--" She could see the woman give in. "You'll have to speak to a superior..."

-=-=-=-=-=-

Within minutes, Raven had her equipment.

(OOC: And the statement is to come. Edit for invalid_session mistake.)

Good evening, people of Astra, people of Lavenrunz. I am Archduchess Raven von Sachshausen, and I wish to address the current situation in our country.

I say "our country." I am not, obviously, Lavenrunzian by birth. I was born in a foreign country. But I have chosen Lavenrunz -- and, yes, Lavenrunz, in the person of the Empress of blessed memory -- my late mother -- has chosen me. I consider myself fortunate for this. I consider myself honored, because I am aware of the traditions and ideals of Lavenrunz.

Many of you, in Astra and across the nation, share the same position. We came as expatriates, some of us as refugees. But we stayed because we chose to. We chose Lavenrunz, and we chose it because of what it represents. It is our home, and we believe in it. We embrace its ideals and its laws, and we serve its interests, in our various ways, as well as we are able. We may not be natives, but we are Lavenrunzian in spirit.

But the ideal is not always the reality. I am sorry to say that this is currently the case. A coup d'etat is underway, and it is being conducted by a faction that, in the name of "tradition," disregards many of the ideals we see as fundamental to Lavenrunz.

We value hospitality, yet this faction assaulted guests at a state function, embarrassing and perhaps injuring them.

We value law, yet leaders of this faction have appointed themselves to high office without the consent of the Volksraad or the Empress.

We value compassion and Christian charity, yet this faction incites hatred and violence against others on nothing more than the basis of their birth.

We value loyalty, yet this faction imprisons government officials, and even the royal family, in their homes, in some cases keeping family members as hostages. For "protection," they may say -- but there was no need for protection until they began their war.

We value fellowship, yet members of this faction murdered soldiers loyal to the Empress in cold blood. They continue to do so as I speak.

We value honesty, yet this faction presents lies. They claim the Empress was mistreated? I am her sister; I have lived with her for six months, in close quarters. It is not true. There have been numerous opportunities for Her Majesty to confide in me secretly, and even more for me to observe any evidence of mistreatment. And yet, nothing.

We value duty, yet this faction has ignored the wishes of Her Majesty, and have even taken her prisoner, in violation of their sworn word. Its leaders have misused their positions in order to mislead soldiers into acting against Her Majesty while believing they are acting in her interests. But if it were truly so, why has there been no word of support from the Empress? If she had truly been rescued from mistreatment, is there any among you who doubts she would have at least the grace to offer a statement of thanks and support?

People of Lavenrunz, who disparages the loyalty and character of some among us, simply because we are not native-born? Who directs the soldiers of Lavenrunz to attack their own countrymen, to imprison their own government officials, to occupy by force the very cities they are sworn to defend? Who calls for democracy yet acts as a dictator? Who presumes to speak in the Empress's name without her permission or acknowledgement?

Who do you trust? Where does your loyalty lie?

I believe most of us side with God, Empress, and country -- not with a usurper. I ask only that you consider exactly what you are supporting. Do you believe the Empress wishes to see Lavenrunzian -- native or adopted -- killing Lavenrunzian?

I promise you this: the Empress -- my sister -- will make her wishes clear when she is able. The usurper may think she is weak, but she is not. Aurora is strong; Aurora is Empress. She will do what is right for Lavenrunz, because she, too, believes in its ideals.

Trust in the ideals of Lavenrunz. Those who wish to set them aside will cite expediency and argue that doing so will serve the "greater good" of Lavenrunz. But they are precisely wrong. It is those ideals and values that make Lavenrunz the nation it is. Without them--

(There is a crashing noise, off-camera.)

Ah. Captain.

Good evening, people of Lavenrunz. God save the Empress.

(Transmission cuts moments later.)

(OOC: Edit because a couple of sentences didn't cut and paste properly. Apologies.)

"Ah. Captain," Raven said as the soldiers crashed through the door. Turning back to the camera, she concluded, "Good evening, Lavenrunz. God save the Empress."

As Raven lifted her hands, the figurative plug was pulled. "You will kindly come with us, Highness," one of the guards grated out in clipped tones.

She nodded. "I apologize for misleading you."

In stony silence, they conveyed her back to the manor. Archduke Carl was waiting near the foyer, and seemed relieved to see her well. "Raven! What did you think you were doing?"

"What I had to." The foxgirl offered a wan smile. "I'm a von Sachshausen. I have to do my duty."

Carl frowned, but nodded, perhaps with more respect than he'd evinced previously.

"I am afraid, Highness, that further excursions are out of the question," Una said. Oddly, she too sounded a touch more respectful; perhaps it was only her imagination.

"Sunday mass?" she asked.

The question earned her a flat look. "A chaplain will be arranged," Una said.

Raven nodded; she would have to be content with that. Aurora... I hope you're safe. Maybe things will at least be a little easier for you...

The Garden of Earthly Delights bustled with activity. The massive dockyards - that took up much of the island's internal waterways - held ship after ship in their concrete embrace. The island's runways were clustered with aircraft, and - despite it's relatively small land mass - any spy satellites that happened to be trained on it noted men. Hundreds of men, thousands, marching in orderly lines out of buildings that looked far too small to accomodate them.

Townsend-Hutchison carriers hovered above the funfair island, taking in fuel, collecting energy beamed down at them from solar collectors in deep space orbit as the earth span by. Vast circular disks, sheening in the sparkling blue sunlight that highlighted the island not far from Knootoss.

Rialla paced her shared Suite, large and cavernous, as if it were a cage - and she, a wild animal, snared and held at bay by forces beyond her control. Physically, there was no truth in that. She could do anything (within the Law), and go anywhere. Mentally... she was shackled.

Her face a study in wrath, she whirled on Semir-randil-

-and her features soften as she looks into the sympathetic amber eyes of her beloved husband. "Dearheart," he said softly, "pacing so will no doubt improve the efficiency of your cardiovascular system for a brief time... but it gains us nothing. We cannot interfere: you know that."

"I do," she murmoured, sagging onto the bed next to him, and curling up against him - both fully clothed, as if that mattered.

"It is just like before, isn't it," Semir muttered, brushing his fingers through Rialla's hair in a protectively reassuring manner.

"Yes," Rialla responded, shifting her position a little to gaze up into Semir's face, "and again, we cannot do anything. I knew her, only a little, but... she was a good woman. For her, I love Lavenrunz. And I hate those who harmed her, more than words can describe - yet we need them. We need them, and all those other arcr'iro who do such disgusting things in the name of greed, valour, and honour."

Her face chilled, turning a little paler than usual, as she looked away from Semir, unwilling to look into his eyes as she spoke her next words: "Do they see us as we see them, I wonder."

"No doubt about it," Semir said softly, "for we have not acted entirely wisely," and he waved an arm, indicating the Empire in its entirety, "in the past, and no doubt we will repeat old mistakes again in the future. - But, Rialla, my sweet, we cannot interfere. You know that."

"I do," Rialla repeated, sighing heavily, before continuing, "but it is so very frustrating. If we could just send a few squads into Lavenrunz, we might manage to pull an operation off that would be low visibility - and impact the course of this damnable civil war."

"Or we might fail, and destroy the Loyalists chance of a moral victory - and make ourselves look as if we were trying to profit from others misery. It is a two edged blade. And the worst edge is the edge facing downwards, ready to fall if we move in the wrong direction. You saw the analysis: if we send the IDF SF into Lavenrunz, it is almost certain that they would be unable to maintain low visibility for long. There are too many eyes watching; too many ears listening. We are not welcome there; if we were...."

"If only we were," Rialla completes sadly, miserably.

High in space, a Thelasian satilite passed over Funfair Island, off the coast of Knootoss, and started taking pictures.

General Theallas was walking through a garden, a beutifull place, deep inside the government building, the light seemed to come from all around, from the blue crystal that made up the thin, yet strong, walls. Flowers were all around, some that could oly be found in Thelas, some that only could be found in Menelmacar. Even though he was surrounded by sights that would have made most people stop and wonder, Theallas kept observing the data pad that he was absorbed in. Connected to a wireless comunication network, Theallas (or any other government personel) could acsess all of his data files anywhere in Thelas.

On the data pad were pictures, the pictures taken of Funfair Island. These actions concerned Theallas, actions like this were often prerequisit for a major millitary operation, and with WV still being a GDODAD nation, this could be bad.

Theallas contacted Force Commander Alatáriël, "Force Commander, it seems that GDODAD forces are readying, I want you to send three more fleets to Lavenrunz, I also want two other fleets to position off of Funfair Island. I need four super-cavitation missile boats off of Funfair island, and two more off of Lavenrunz. Also, continue readying forces for fast deployment, I have a feeling that the GDODAD is going to try and intervene."

"As you wish, Sir."

And so it was done.

It took the best part of a day to load the troops onto the Townsend-Hutchison craft, and for the crews of the 18th Expedition to mobilise from shore leave. Beneath and around the Garden of Earthly Delights, the Vanguard ballistic submarines and Trafalgar Sunset hunter-killers began to move slowly, below the detection nets strung between the oilrig-like structures that formed a ring around the island. Passive sonar reinforced by active sonar drones that flitted through the water in random patterns ahead of them, watching and waiting and moving out south - not only the direction in which Lavenrunz lay, but the direction of Knootoss and many other countries.

"Attention visitors to the Garden of Earthly Delights," came the voice over the tannoy. "There could be some disruption to your regular rides today. To apologise for this, the management offers complete refund for the costs of your holiday! As you are no doubt aware, the lease on the Garden is due soon, so please enjoy the rest of your stay. As our island's last tourists, all refreshments and fairground attractions are free for the rest of the week. Thank YOU for making us more popular than Disneyland!"

Indeed, the visitors did not seem disturbed by the legions of armed troops marching past them. Little children gazed, and their guns inspired games of Cowboys and Indians all over - but even with some of the biggest rollercoasters shut down, there was plenty to do, to see, and to eat.

And the expedition moved south.

*Tag* for future reference...and the fact Ruhr is nothing more than an asslicking SATO state.

-Ruhrian DIA Agent

EDIT: ---

EDIT 2: Sorry, rechanged my mind.

{Unencrypted transmission to Thelas}

Attention General Theallas:

You are in potential breach of the agreed withdrawal.

You will confirm or deny that Thelassian vessels are en route to Lavenrunz. If you confirm this, either you will withdraw those forces back to Thelassian controlled territory, or we will be forced to take action to prevent/lessen Thelassian interference.

There will be no further requests or warnings.

~ High Lord UCINC Ax-randiri Rihad

{Transmission Terminates}

As a SATO nation, we are deeply concerned about such instability and the growing Civil War in Lavenrunz. As much as we would liek to help, we are in turmoil ourselves, so we are unable to provide military support to the government, the side we support. However, we still urge both sides in this civil war to attempt to estabilish peace, although protecting the people is the first piority.

However, the government has our moral, diplomatic, and possibly fincial backing, as independent groups are encouraged to provide humantarian aid to teh Lavenrunzian government.

Foreign Affairs Ministry

Trust in the ideals of Lavenrunz.

(There is a crashing noise, off-camera.)

Ah. Captain.

Good evening, people of Lavenrunz. God save the Empress.

(Transmission cuts moments later.)

The missing half of the camera team thanked Raven for being nice enough of telling them her exact position. The two cars were speeding towards their target sigsagging through traffic. The men checked their equipment and continued towards the place they knew she was in right now. They hoped they wouldn't get there too late or coming second or third. They knew there were a lot of people trying to get hold of Raven right now.

Lavenrunzian territorial waters off Meinwerk Sound
"Present--arms!"
Bos'ns mates shrilly piped the Empress of Lavenrunz aboard the Zwoll; bayonets formed a sharp gleaming hedge as the officers saluted.
Aurora bows her head a moment in response. She walks up to Admiral de Goethe and says, "Admiral, thank you for your assistance."
"To hear is to obey, Your Majesty." the Admiral said.
"Inform Count Melkor and Chancellor der Waal that I must speak with them at the earliest opportunity." she said. "And...I must speak with Renate von Saucken and Sirithil nos Feanor."
The Admiral was mesmerized by the combination of youth, sorrow and determination in the girl, and bowed.
"Majesty...what about Mirbach though?" asked de Goethe.
"I must consider this very carefully." replied Aurora. Because I actually don't know...

Official Communique from the Empress of Lavenrunz

In spite of the greatest difficulties, I have returned to my country.
My apologies, first of all, to those who were my guests at my Winter Ball. They were treated with indignity and subject to threats, and I hope that they do not bear me or my country a grudge for what a group of terrorists did.
Secondly: I must ask that foreign nations let Lavenrunzians work out Lavenrunzian difficulties. Any nation sending in forces without our permission will be considered an enemy and treated accordingly.
Finally, it is my hope that the turmoil that our country is facing will end and that we can find a peaceful end to our problems.
Empress Aurora.

"Hm. An interesting turn of events, this is. I wonder how she got back," Warlord Garrand mused. Morgoth's spies had proven useful, but not quite useful enough. Aurora, it was planned, should have returned to Lavenrunz in a much... different fashion, of course. Naturally, the existing plans had to be scrapped. Still, the mobilization was underway. A small force was to be readied, should the rebels need them. There hadn't been that many low-key mobilizations in the Imperium to date, this would indeed prove the first. It was hoped that they could marshal their force beneath tha mighty peaks of Thangorodrim in the north, and reveal them only at the last moment. Garrand snorted derisively as he mulled over the situation. A council of the Warlords was to be forthcoming, wherein he would propose his tactical and strategic plans.

This was proving to be a wonderful opportunity to expand Dor Daedoloth's influence.

Deep in Angband, they waited to hear word from Lavenrunz.

Melkor, Lord of Darkness
He who Arises in Might
Emperor Eternal of the Imperial Dominion of Melkor Unchained, Lord and Master of Arda
http://people.vanderbilt.edu/~darion.c.smith/melkor.jpg

Official Message from the Imperial House of Foreign Affairs:

"I understand, and you don't need to apologize, Empress, because it wasn't your fault. It's a shame that Count Adendorff didn't have the chance to offer his apologies. The only thing that I regret of what happened is not having the opportunity to meet you. I also agree with you that the Lavenrunzian problems must be solved by the Lavenrunzian people. However, as the ShadowPrince stated, we support your goverment and willing to send you aid, but only if you approve it".

Princess Aliria D'Hyru.

~Top Secret Secure Communication~
To the Ineffable Lord Melkor: Your assistance would be most appreciated--but this must be a Lavenrunzian matter until other forces become --involved. We would ask that we be permitted to send an envoy to sign an agreement with you, whereby we would be able to call for assistance if need be. In turn, we would agree to sever ties with Menelmacar and her alliances in favour of Arda and yours.
Most respecfully: Count Mirbach
~End Communication~

Natasha sucked in her breath before dropping through the sewer outlet, giving the rebreather time to complete its tests. The monitor on her helmet showed the ghostly images of her partner, and his vital signs, waiting just behind her. Distantly, on a projected map that filled itself in as they moved through the sewers the other teams moved.

She went to the crossroads, one of the designated entrance points, her partner covering her as she went.

No sign of anyone ... not even a rat.

Her augmented eyes could see comfortably in the dark. She flipped to the camera of the other squads, saw nothing, and subvocalised the 'All clear'. She wasn't the demolitions expert, after all.

@@@

The Cathedral of the Archangels played host to guardian angels of an odd sort as evening came over Lavenrunz. Matthew had been lying, lodged concealed in the shadow of a parapet on top of a gargoyle for almost six hours. His strengthened muscles and years of training dampened the pain a little, and he was glad it was time to switch watch. Below in the near
distance, the Imperial Chancellry was laid out. He was glad for one thing, though: the cold of the day was kept at bay by his undersuit, designed to fool infra-red detection devices by holding in all heat. It was snowing in Hofburg, and the flakes were carpeting the city far below.

His rifle - matte grey, no reflective surfaces, perfect for his camping position - turned slightly as he scoped the city, checking for Mirbach's safety.

"All's clear," he whispered.

{Blanket RF transmission 'sprayed' via MISAT into Lavenrunz}

People of Lavenrunz, I greet you with the utmost warmth, respect, and all due honour.

It is indeed a difficult and trying time for the Great Nation of Lavenrunz; a time of trouble, a time of strife; a time of pain, a time of seperation from loved ones; a time of despair, and of fear; a time of heroism, a time of despair; a time of great deeds, a time of great need for noble and honourable leadership.

Some of you will look to your Empress, the August, Honourable and Venerable Empress Aurora. Some of you will look to the Count Mirbach.

Yet all of you share one single, common trait: you are of Lavenrunz. Brothers, sisters, cousins to each other; fathers, mothers, grandmothers, grandfathers to each other; to each and all of your nation, you - yes, you, you who are moving to switch this radio unit off as I speak - are kin to every one who stands beside you. And every one who opposes you; to them you are kin equally. Brothers argue with brothers; sisters argue with sisters; but they are none the less kin for it all.

If you are listening to my words; if you have not turned off your radio; if you care to hear my words, and I, the Empress of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn crave, beg, and much desire that you listen to my humble words this day; if you are listening, then I beg that you pay me a single, tiny, infinetsimal favour.

If you will grant me this desire, this favour, then I ask you a simple thing indeed:

Look at your neighbour. Look at the man, woman, or child who is closest to you. Embrace them, for if this terrible conflict continues, you may never embrace them again. This, and this alone, I ask; embrace them, and remember always that amidst all this violence, all this conflict, fear, and hatred, for one moment a single voice asked you, every single one of you, to embrace a neighbour. And when that moment had passed, the love inherant in that embrace endured; for of all things, the single one that must endure is love. Let this moment be an island of love amidst the sea of fear and distrust that pervades; let this moment be a symbol of trust, of love, of all that is Holy and Great - for tomorrow, the person you embrace this very instant may not be there to embrace any longer.

The person you embrace may not share your views; they may not agree with your beliefs, they may be The Other - that which is always feared, for it is different: but when in your arms, embracing you as you embrace them, it makes no difference.

So embrace them, and praise the Lord that you have arms with which to love.

You are a great and noble people, with a proud and illustrious history; you have stood at the pinnacle of the world, along with all the Great Nations of our time that wield the greatest power and strength in the history of Humanity, and all Organic Sentient life in this little corner of our great Universe. Today, you stand just where you always have; for in our hearts and minds, the name Lavenrunz will always stand for peace; the name Lavenrunz will always bring an image to my mind of the great and noble things that your great people have achieved in your history. SATO would not be what it is - a force for peace, and all that is good - if it were not for you; for every single one of you.

For all of you share in your achievements, as all of you share in your less illustrious moments.

Yet we of the Empire will not remember Lavenrunz in days to come for the events which have happened in these days of turmoil and strife; we will forever remember Lavenrunz as a name to be honoured. As we celebrate our first year as a unified, complete and whole Empire, we of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn will look to the direction of Lavenrunz: and for every day that this conflict lasts, the bells of our land will ring in mourning for one hour, from tomorrow.

We feel the grief that surely runs deep through your land in these days; we know the terror and fear of that worst of conflicts, the civil war; we, not so long ago, were a fractured and frightened people, unsure of our mutual futures - fearful of each other, of what our once seperate beliefs represented. You, I am sure; many of you, I am sure, are unafraid. And those of you that are afraid - and there is no shame in fear, for fear can drive us to excel where otherwise we would fail in strength - I tell you: fear not, for Lavenrunz will prevail.

As the Sun rises each morning without fail, the Sun will set on Lavenrunz' troubles - and once again, you shall have pause to gaze at the stars above in wonderment, and sigh at their beauty; and in time, Lavenrunz will once again rise, as the Sun at dawn as Spring approaches after a cold and bitter Winter; stronger, more vibrant than before.

And should Lavenrunz ask our aid, we will be forevermore be here, awaiting her call.

To a future in which Lavenrunz rises, and brightens all of our lives once again, we of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn look and wait.

In peace I trust,

Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn

{Transmission ceases}

To the gracious and honorable Empress Aurora of Lavenrunz, and fellow rulers;

There is no need for such apologies from you. This was none of your doing, and I myself, hold no grudge on account. Anything but. Your courage and resourcefulness were very much appreciated, and I consider myself indebted to you. I am very glad to see you returned, and wish you well in your efforts to reunited your great nation.

I echo the Empress's request that foreign nations not leap into the fray, well meaning or no. As she has stated, this is an internal matter, and not one for our meddling. The fact that many of us were caught up in it on account of the timing is of course unfortunate, however - it is not our place to attempt to decide the fate of Lavenrunz. While I condemn Mirbach and his actions, I will remain neutral in my own, unless otherwise requested, as should we all.

To both you and your nation - hold fast to your faith, and do not let these differences further divide you. Support the will of your Empress, and rightful ruler. For the good of your nation, stand as one.

--Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion

[OOC: I don't know why I'm still putting these disclaimers up, but... co-written.]

Snow began to blow again as they moved towards the airport. Erica turned to the group. "This may be to our advantage...keep moving. Ein and Bolan nodded, Ein watching Erica cautiously. She was leading well, but he remembered her shiver just before the attack on the sentry post. Something was eating her, but he couldn't tell what. And why am I so worried about her anyway? he asked himself. She's a soldier like all of us, she'll put nervousness behind her. The question nagged at his mind as they moved towards the base.

The field was actually hard to navigate in; it was hard to tell that there was grass at all. They were bent double like peasants carrying heavy loads as the wind began to increase; the only advantage was that the wind was at their backs. But the snow was hard to trudge through.

For about the thousandth time since escaping the palace, Ein privately thought about bringing a snow-clearing flamethrower on the next mission. Also for nearly the thousandth time, he envied the way Bolan easily moved through the white stuff.

"Can anyone see any of the base yet?" he asked quietly in his radio.

The scout ahead suddenly motioned for everyone to halt. He signaled that there was enemy activity ahead. Bolan passed it on and sank lower into the grass, unslinging his rifle. Ein stopped as well, waiting for Erica to give orders.

The scout continued to signal. Two sandbagged empacements outside the fence. Bolan raised his sniper rifle and scanned with the scope. Then he passed on the signal, and added that he was in range to take out the soldiers behind the emplacements. Ein moved forward next to Erica so he could see the signals more clearly.

The scope showed Bolan that there were two heavy weapons facing them. One appeared to be an automatic grenade launcher, the other looked like a machinegun. However, both emplacments looked large for just one heavy weapon each.

Bolan grinned. It looked like another duck shoot. He signaled again. Probably got extra people there. Advise?

Erica frowned. Something not right...but Jaegers were not trained to hesitate. She motioned. Watch for targets: we move in as close as we can. She signalled for the others to outflank the emplacements.

Ein remained next to her for a moment longer. "Are you alright?" he asked quietly for the second time that night.

She felt an absurd rush of warmth. He likes me... She said, "Yes, I'm fine." she smiled at him. "Really."

He smiled back. "Good. Good luck." Then he moved off to take his place. Bolan was already prone in the grass and snow, carefully aligning his crosshairs on the automatic grenade launcher. If a gunner popped up on that thing, he'd be down before he could fire.

As they crawled forward, Ein suddenly saw the snow on either side of Werner's foot move very slightly. He caught Werner's ankle and when the old man looked back, he shook his head and slowly started to move backwards. His soldier's instincts were sounding the alarm again.

One of the others made a motion; Ein remembered that this one was a combat engineer. Her signal meant "wire".

Ein froze, his eyes carefully picking out the small silver line on the ground. Now that he knew what to look for, he saw it easily. He tried to trace it, figure out what it was hooked to. He saw there were two familiar looking shapes under the snow; they were large round and flat, about the size of a dinner plate. The wire ran into either of them.

Ein a took a breath, and murmured into his radio. "Attention everyone, be very careful not to trip over anything." He started moving again, carefully stepping over the wire.

The others continued to move up. Erica felt excitement burning steadily into her; she had no sense this time that they were her fellow countrymen. Just targets. They at last were right up near the sandbags, able to see the weave of them.

"You're still clear," Bolan's voice came quietly over the radio. "Nobody's shown themselves yet." Ein flicked the safety off his rifle, so he could shoot between reloading.

Suddenly there was movement; Bolan could see figures crouching up to the weapons, and others at the rear--if his training did not mistake him, about to load mortars!

"You've got company!" The next thing to speak was Bolan's rifle, sending a round at the man approaching the grenade launcher before swinging to target a mortar. The other sniper almost copied his movements, aiming for the machinegunner.

"Incoming!" snapped Muller harshly into the radios as the second mortar shell managed to go in the tube.

"Not for long," Bolan muttered. He already had the loader. The rifle rang out its message of pain and death once more. Ein grabbed a rocket, ready to load for Werner, his other hand holding his rifle.

Werner waited till he got the slap on the helmet that meant go, and fired into the sandbag emplacement with the machinegun. The machinegunner was toast; the second sniper had hit him in the center of the face. The mortar shell howled down but harmlessly sprayed dirt and snow over the Jaegers and two Angels.

"Now, hit them you bastards," snarled Erica.

Ein loaded again, slapped Werner's helmet, and brought his own rifle into play. A stream of tracers stitched into the morter area, seeking out the rest of the big weapon's team.

Erica was thinking of the mobile force inside, and ordered number two squad to the fence. "Get in, now!"

Number two squad rushed up, covering for their engineer, who planted a charge at the fence and waved everyone back and down. "Fire in the hole!" he warned.

Bolan's rifle boomed twice in succession. "I think we've got the mortar people."

"Number one squad, cover and watch for the patrols!" Erica ordered.

"On it," Ein and Bolan answered simultaneously. Bolan swung his scope over the building Number two squad was headed for, looking for any trouble. Nothing yet.

The fence went with a bang, and there was a hole large enough for them to get in two abreast.

"Let's go, people." said Erica.

*************************************************************

Calling in their supporting airstrike was dicey; Erica half thought it just wouldn't happen. But the planes actually came roaring in. The Jaegers hit the anti-aircraft vehicles with all they had left and then got their heads down as the missiles and bombs came howling in.

Ein hit the ground as well, Bolan was still far enough out in the field to be more or less safe, and he was prone already. The thunder was deafening as the high explosives went off. The silence after was deafening at first as well. Then they heard the sounds of crackling flames and agonized metal.

They had lost three killed and had two injured. One was Werner, who had lost half his hand to a fifty cal. round.

Ein stood up slowly, shaking his head to clear the ringing, and looked at the base. "Well, score one for the good guys." Then he turned his attention to Werner. He didn't have any bandages or anything, and he looked around for something to help stem the bleeding. The medic approached Werner, cursing quietly. Werner was looking quiet and grim.

Erica looked a bit stunned at the havoc that had been wrought for a moment, she had blood and dirt smeared on her face and uniform. She simply stood, her eyes staring bleakly off into space. Ein turned Werner over to the medic, and walked over to where Erica was standing. He didn't ask how she was feeling, he didn't have to. He just laid a hand on her shoulder and gave it a comforting squeeze.

Erica shuddered, and then gave him a grateful look. She didn't let herself feel anything too clearly; she felt she'd never stop weeping if she did. She put a hand over his and looked at him.

Ein smiled at her gently. "It'll be over one day," he told her softly. "No war lasts forever." He placed his other hand over hers. "And we'll be there to see the end of this one."

Erica took a breath and smiled at him. Oh, man...glad he isn't on the team. Because fraternisation is not the order of the day... she gently moved her hand and beckoned to the RTO. Glancing at Muller, she said, "Collect weapons and ammo." To the RTO, she said, "Confirm our pickup. Listen up! If the pickup doesn't come, we need to get out of here fast! Bolan and Helfer, get to high place and watch our backs. Ein and Groll, check out that garage over there for a vehicle we can use. The rest of you report to doc if you're wounded or do a sweep by pairs for survivors."

Ein and Bolan both voiced affirmatives, and moved off to do their assigned tasks.

Message from the Kalessin Ministry of Peace to Count Mirbach:

"We have been instructed by the Emperor to invite Lavenrunz to join the Arda alliance. However, in order to become and remain a member, we must insist that neither the government not the people of Lavenrunz engage in any form of non-hostile relations with the government of people of any elven nation. As concerns your request for military aid, a squadron of five battle-barges, each carrying twenty thousand Kalessini warriors, has been dispatched."

The expeditionary force continued to move, and was rapidly merged with four others - a vast naval force, guarded below and above the surface of the steel-darkened sea. Five expeditionary forces in all, from the massive disk-like saucers to the flitting Wisps, and the more conventional ships of the line.

Above, in orbit, satellites jettisoned fuel to begin their careful guardian watchfulness - and began to watch for others of their ilk, watching the fleets.

From the port of Gdansk on the coast of LRR, a characteristically odd fleet prepares to set sail. This will be the first earth war the LRR fleet participates in in a long time.

Mooring lines are cast off, and gangplanks retracted. A nimrod circles overhead, flanked by a pair of Tornado f.1s. The largest two ships in the fleet, a pair of Doujinshi Defiance class frigates, are the first to leave port. Crewmen shovel piles of snow off the deck as the ship motors out of port in the crisp, cold night air. Next come four Skjold class and five visby class corvettes, which are followed in turn by three Gotland class submarines and four S-1900 corvettes, their Kamov ASW helicopters displayed prominently on their helipads.

On the bridge of the LRRNS Nevil Norway, a Defiance class frigate....

"All ahead one third."
"All ahead one third, aye sir."
"Chart a course for Laverunz."
"Aye, sir."

The fleet is finally underway, and heading for Laverunz under the night sky. The ships also carry a force of 500 marines with them, to be used in the event that a hostage rescue or other ground intervention becomes necessary.

A gigantic storm could be seen far out at sea, moving rapidly toward Lavenrunz.

Message from the Kalessin Ministry of Peace to all powers involved in the Lavenrunz affair:

"We of the Empire have been invited to send a small military detachment to Lavenrunz by Count Mirbach, current ruler of that land. This force shall only be used to help Count Mirbach to maintain Lavenrunz self-rule in the face of a possible SATO invasion, and will not in any circumstances be used to fight against the people or armies of Lavenrunz, whether they be supporters of Count Mirbach, or of Princess Aurora."

Edit: Double post

The benevolent Jaar is relieved to see the young empress Aurora out of harms way, unscathed and whole. How great a day when the young heiress returns from the peril of external threats and return to the safe embrace of her people. We believe this event will bring peace and prosperity to Lavenrunz and makes it possible to avoid the bloodshed on innocent Lavenrunz people that so many nations seems to have strived to achieve. We are still sad for the obvious aggression that nations such as Thelas and Diablo NL has shown, trying to force their beliefs and cultural ways onto the proud people of Lavenrunz.

During the time of duress we believe the Empress has clearly shown her ability to take care of herself and to come out on top of a fearful situation. We believe that the Empress now fully can fill the role of beloved Empress of Lavenrunz and that the title as regents are no longer necessary as the people needs their Empress and surely has shown that. We congratulate the Empress Aurora of Lavenrunz for embracing her destiny and showing her people that it is she that is their leader and that no shadowy figures in the background governs their lives.

God Bless Lavenrunz! God Bless The Empress Aurora of Lavenrunz!

-------------

Message for Empress Aurora

At this day of Joy we are sending our special envoy, Duchesse Lenore D’Elomie, for sharing the joy and good spirit in your nation with you. She looks forward meeting you and very much admire your determination in this case. We very much hope you will have the time and opportunity to meet her.

Over the beaches of Lavenrunz, the faint sound of turboprops can be heard overhead. A Tu-142 of the LRRAF long-range recon squadron loiters over the shoreline, watching. It uses its powerful ground-scan radar to pinpoint the positions of troops and ships, in preperation for the LRR fleet.

A broadcast was sent soon after the GDODAD and Ardan task forces left, General Theallas appeared standing at a podium,

"I am ashamed that it must come to this, I warned GDODAD, Ardan and Reich forces that any involvment would bring a full retaliation. Now, they have pushed, and push must come to shove. I will issue this final warning.

Reich, GDODAD, and Ardan forces, will back down, those ships will return to port, and they will not interfere. I wished to lose Thelasian forces before, but my allies held me back, and they still might try to hold me back, but now, if this warning is not listened to Thelas will react will all power in my possetion.

I do not wish for a massive war, but if this continues, war will become the only answer."

Soon, six large transports left Thelas, heading twoards each of the fleets. Aboard them were special devices, designed to be attached to the missiles in the fleeet, each device had a electro-magnetic generator, much like the devices aboard the Whisps. In fact, the devices were designed to counter the Whisps' feilds.

Excerpt from a SATO emergency meeting on the Lavenrunz situation.
((OOC: long live IRC))

Present:
Aurora, Empress of Lavenrunz
Sirithil, Elentári of Menelmacar + mighty elf
Dmitri, President of Ruhr (OOC: am I right?)
Shaul, leader of Diablo_NL
De Vries, SATO Ambassador of Knootoss

Empress Aurora takes the word: "I just want to ask something about my country, please."
Dmitri exclaims, “Well ask!” and Shaul adds: “Go ahead Aurora.”

Aurora speaks calmly, with dignity: "I have control of the defence net of Lavenrunz. But Mirbach has control of most of the actual troops. I don't want to see a lot of my people dead. Would anyone support a negotiated agreement?"

Ambassador De Vries is first to reply: “we already made a proposal…” but Sirithil jumps in, angered: "Negotiated... how? As in, he hands over the country, and we just shoot him quickly instead of eviscerating him?" Aurora frowns at her. "I'm serious." De Vries coughs, as if to reiterate his statement. Sirithil narrows her eyes slightly, and purses her lips in a definite frown. ".......go on, Majesty."

"I'm afraid I just returned, Herr de Vries.", the Empress replies to the Knootian. He nods looks in his papers. After a short search he hands Aurora a document, pertaining the proposal. She skims through it quickly.

Shaul says: “We would be willing to support negotiated treaty.” Aurora explains to the SATO leaders: "The rebels hold most of the ports and key cities. We have naval superiority...but they also have air power. They'll fight back. And Mirbach is admired now for standing up to Thelas." Sirithil facepalms at the mentioning of Thelas, and is reminded of their leader, Thealass. "I... am going... to kill him."

Dmitri jumps in: Aurora, at the moment you control the fate of country, should it fall into civil war. If you do something, I suggest you assassinate Mirbach as soon as possible and take back power through force. Diplomacy is not working. Ambassador De Vries shouts: “No Dmitri!”
The Ruhrian, however, insist: “Yes. I cannot send troops there myself. I have a growing problem in two areas in the world.”

De Vries proposes an alternative: “The empress should make a televised statement demanding Mirbach stand down. The people will listen to you, Aurora, I know they will.”
Shaul repeats: “As I said, we will be willing to support Lavenrunz in a negotiated treaty.”
Dmitri looks at the Empress: “I support a military intervention, Aurora.” Ambassador De Vries looks at his Ruhrian counterpart: “I support it as well, but not without trying diplomacy first. It is the SATO way.”

"But why would he just stand down?" protests Aurora.
Sirithil replies: “Aurora... just... think carefully here. You are Empress; if Mirbach believes he is doing what he is doing in service of the crown, then he will stand down if you order him to do so. If he does not, then he exposes himself as a traitor.” De Vries nods, agreeing: "Aurora, your people are doing this for you. They believe it to be in service of the crown. Even if Mirbach refuses, his allies will abandon him. His troops would not fight against the Empress, would they?"

Aurora nods slowly. "No. It would be high treason."
Sirithil continues: "Precisely. And the penalty for high treason is quite clear."

Shaul, however, does not agree: “But what if they do? Then you have made a grave error. You need to do this slowly and carefully.” Dmitri adds: I am not certain that his allies will abandon him ever so quickly

Ambassador De Vries replies: “Shaul, if you ask him to stand down and he does not you will have lost nothing.” He turns to the Ruhrian: “Dmitri, then you do not know the Lavenrunzian people." Dmitri answers to De Vries: “unfortunately I do not. The only Ruhrian official to step in Lavenrunz is Mark Peters, and even then the thread was not finished.”

Shaul does not like it: “Sirithil, De Vries, you just can't take risks right now. They have a superior force.”

The Knootian ambassador keeps his diplomatic tone: “Well, the Empress can probably explain this best. But the people are loyal to the crown. I saw KNN reports... the officers amongst insurgents believe they are doing this for the Empress. And I do not wish Lavenrunzians to fight Lavenrunzians" The Elentári also does the same: “Shaul, when the enemy has a superior force, all the paths to victory are risky.”

"True." Aurora says. "But...Mirbach will step down and then his cronies will call for an election."
Dmitri blurts: “The power of modern warfare lies in the Air Force. If Mirbach is in control of the air force, he has the upper hand in any conflict. Aurora, you do not control the battle should one break out. If you can make him appear treasonous and your people will then not support him, either instigate mutiny in his ranks or assassinate him.” Shaul adds: “Hence you don't go into situations in witch you can most likely have them stop negotiating and just attack.”

Siri ignores the calls for military intervention and continues on about the speech, however: "And you will state there is no precedent for an election. I refused Claudia's resignation. And traitors do not call elections."

The Knootian speaks up: "Yes, they may refuse. But you will have prevented armed conflict then already. AND exposed him as acting against the crown." Empress Aurora wonders: “How is he proven a traitor?” Siri answers for the Vries, who just nods: "Because he has acted against your express interests."

Dmitri still disagrees: “Obviously he has intentions of taking power”, while Empress Aurora wavers and doubts: “But he united the country to save it from Thelas, and they listened to him. Ambassador De Vries fills in: “... as you would have”

Shaul argues: “If he is a traitor, he will not listen to the empress request to step down.” As does Dmitri: “If he does not hand over the power of the military to you, Aurora, then he is treasonous for disobeying a direct command.”
Empress Aurora agrees: “Yes.” The Knootian ambassador explains his viewpoint: ”The people are misguided, you must enlighten them. Preferably from a neutral location where you can speak 'freely'. Siri nods: “At any rate, a negotiated settlement would not be in the best interests of Lavenrunz. Mirbach would make heavy demands. Our tactical plan was sound, if it comes to that.”

Empress Aurora Aurora frowns. "How could we have prevailed?" Shaul shrugs: “Let him ask demands, what is important is that the Lavenrunzian situation is stable, no more blood is spilled, and the imperial family stays alive.” The ambassador looks at the leader of Diablo, not understanding: “What do we lose? I have not heard a single argument yet against the Empress making a speech and demanding he stand down”, he says wearily. Sirithil sneers: “Shaul... you have no clue what you're talking about. But hey, yeah, that's all that's important, if you want Lavenrunz in the Reich's pocket.”
Shaul replies quickly: “So I suggest Aurora negotiates.”
Siri answers: “Nor have I... and Shaul... you're totally missing my point.”

Ambassador De Vries argues again: “if he refuses, you can always negotiate. This is also what I propose. Disarmament, no shooting. Talking.” Siri reasons: “The demands Mirbach would make with the de facto legitimacy granted by negotiations would /put/ Lavenrunz in the Reich's pocket.”

Aurora sighs. "You aren't in my position, de Vries, nor can you readily imagine it." The Knootian looks at Aurora: “why not then, Empress?” "Because face is involved, and perhaps you don't see that." De Vries shakes his head: "No. If he refuses then he is a traitor and he will pay. I will make sure of that, and so will the alliance." Dmitri Aurora plugs in, putting yet a little bit more pressure on the young Empress: “Make a statement, take his power away from the people. If he doesn't hand over power, kill him.” Shaul nods: “If he refuses, we will help you in any way we can.” Siri explains to the girl she is guardian of: “There is no loss of face in asserting your position. There is plenty of it in giving him the legitimacy of negotiations.” De Vries smiles, agreeing totally with the Elentári who knows all about honour and stuff. He reassures her: “really, there is no loss of face involved”

Dmitri notes that Ruhr currently has 930 warships in the Atlantic Ocean and well over 50 fighters and 25 bombers. “Siri knows that Ruhr has vessels in the US. I am pretty close to wherever the hell you are too!” De Vries notes a bit less secure that “we can, uhm, deploy forces also. But invading would only reinforce Mirbachs point. Whilst demanding he stop acting in the name of the crown would not. He reaches out his hand to the empress. Aurora takes his hand, curiously while Sirithil lovingly takes her other hand. De Vries smiles warmly: "We are your friends, Empress. Please trust us. You may not know me but did Siri not always mean well for you?" Empress Aurora replies: "Yes...but I have a plan. And I'd like you all to support it."

Those present all listen as the Empress speaks: "I want to ask Sirithil to abdicate as Regent at my request in favour of my uncles Carl and Amadeus."
Shaul nods: “Sounds well.” but Sirithil blinks. "Nobody's ever fired me before." Empress Aurora turns to Siri: "Yes, but it removes a large area of provocation. Then I would call for an election but not right away."

Sirithil notes that Claudia der Waal still has [x] years in her term. De Vries looks thoughtfully, a frown on his forehead: "If this is your wish, of course. But please, also demand Mirbach to stand down. Let democracy take it's course. He still acted against your wishes - We would also support taking away his title." Empress Aurora replies positively: "I will, but His title?" De Vries nods: "Yes, strip him of his title as count. Now that he has acted against you. He dishonoured you, after all."

Shaul speaks up: “I hope for you that Mirbach doesn't say something like. "The evil elves have gotten to her. She is speaking under duress. We must free her and the nation.” while Dmitri eyes the ‘evil elves’.

Sirithil twitches, still not quite seeing what Mirbach's going to have to go through that's going to be anywhere /near/ as great a loss of face as her having to abdicate the Regency. Empress Aurora continues: "Anyway, I would like to know if you will all back my plan."

Ambassador De Vries bows his head respectfully: "If you wish. But please demand he stands down or he will only gain strength. If you do this, we support it." Empress Aurora replies: "I will, of course. De Vries smiles endearingly and Aurora smiles sweetly back. Shaul is second: “I will back you, but don't say I didn’t warn you.” Sirithil, finally, ponders. "...I...", she sighs deeply, "You have my support."

Empress Aurora closes the meeting: "Thank you all."

Rialla looked at the constant stream of reports, and sighed heavily. She pecked out a number on her 'visorphone...

...and spoke softly to the image that appeared before her.

"Ax-randiri... Pitbull is a go."

* * *

Some fifteen warships and two hundred X# strike fighters, running radio-silent following reception of encrypted orders from the ground, smoothly moved away from the Stellar Battlegroup 'at anchor' around the Sol Orbital Colony Vilya Elenosto.

Gently flaring as photons spill away from their hulls, the group accelerated around the curve of the planet and out into cislunar space, where (eventually) they settled into a relative-stop position between Earth and the Moon.

[OOC: Fleet composition: one Retribution class warship, two Tyelca Tuo class pocket cruisers, thirteen Fearless class destroyers. It's not all that likely that anyone would link this maneuver to Lavenrunz just yet, except Reich nations - who would probably use it as propaganda, assuming they're capable of spotting the movement.]

IC:

* * *

{Encrypted communique to Loyalist Lavenrunzian forces; EYES ONLY, tagged for Empress Aurora's viewing}

"Honoured Empress Aurora, it is my great regret to make this request, but I feel it most necessary.

"Over the past 24 hours, the Empire has made efforts to prevent interference in Lavenrunz, believing that such interference is unwelcome. As a stop-gap measure, we would like to ask permission to deploy a small force into an orbital position above Lavenrunz. If any force attempts to enter Lavenrunz without permission - which we would, naturally, be informed of ahead of time - then we would make every effort to turn them back, and prevent Lavenrunzian loss of life.

"The force in question, currently named the Neutrality Taskforce, is awaiting your decision in cislunar space.

"Any support that Lavenrunz requires from the Empire in any other form is, of course, at your fingertips.

"With the greatest respect,"

~ Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn

{Transmission Terminates}

Address of the Empress of Lavenrunz
Since a number of nations have refused to hear my wish that we should be left alone to settle our troubles, I am forced to declare a national state of emergency. I call upon The Federation of Sentient Peoples, a neutral but well respected nation, to use UN influence to keep these people from interfering with our political struggles!

OOC: Bleah to the forums. And apologies to Lunatic Robots, whose post I misunderstood.

At the request of Empress Aurora of Lavenrunz, the Federation humbly accepts the responsibility requested of it. We will strive to uphold the trust of the Empress and her people, and give them the time they need to sort out their internal strife on their own.

As a response, the Federation hereby requests that all nations with military forces enroute to Lavenrunz hereby recall them immediately. Following this announcement, Federation forces, and those of other neutral nations, will be establishing a 100 mile no pentration zone around Lavenrunz. Any military force violating the cordon will be given one warning to turn around. It will then be destroyed.

As such, we request that forces from the Imperium of Lord Melkor Unchained, the Empire of the Eternal Dawn, the Dominion of the Dread Lady Nathicana, the Empire of Treznor, the Jungle Paradise of El Hefe, and the Holy Empire of Iesus Christi, as all have expressed interest in seeing this situation resolve itself to the satisfaction of the Lavenrunzian people, without external interference, to assist us in this matter.

Anyone wishing to assist in this matter should contact the Federation, through the International Relations Directorate, and we will consider your offer.

As we were requested to build this force by the Empress, I request that the other nations allow their military units deployed to be under the nominal command of Fleet Admiral Farragut, of the Federation Space Naval Forces, who will be commanding our deployed forces.

We wish only to see the situation resolved peacefully, and internally, and since outside intervention will most likely lead to neither of those things, we will insist that it not occur.

http://people.vanderbilt.edu/~darion.c.smith/miniflag.jpg
D'ron Christopher Smith, Imperial President
The Executive Council of the Federation of Sentient Peoples
The Federation of Sentient Peoples (http://people.vanderbilt.edu/~darion.c.smith/)
Federation Roleplay Policy (http://people.vanderbilt.edu/~darion.c.smith/rppolicy.html)

-----------------------------------------

High over head, the unthinkable, or nearly so, happened. An Anglachel-class Space Station, a base for a third of the Federation Space Navy, pulsed with power. And then, it began to glow, as the massive drive field blazed to life, halting it's orbit, and then, shifting it.

The massive 50 kilometer station moved into stationary orbit directly above the nation of Lavenrunz. It was from here that the cordon would be controlled. Satellites wheeled about under the command of the EI on the station, moving into the best positions to observe and report back. The station, now identified as the Anglachel itself blazed to life as scanners began to probe the world below.

Electromagnetic catapults roared, pulsing forth the station's brood of fighters, and the entire First Task Force moved with it, fighters prepped for launch, but not doing so yet. Eighty starships and more than two thousand aerospace fighters were ready for combat, if needed. The fighters from the station sliced into the atmosphere, readying to take up position along the 100 mile zone edge, in squadron groups of twelve.

The message was clear. The Federation would contenance no external interference in Lavenrunzian affairs.

The Treznor battle Fleet presently maintaining a staggered orbit above Lavenrunz acknowledges the request of Empress Aurora, and places our assets at the disposal of Fleet Admiral Farragut, of the Federation Space Naval Forces. We will do our part to help keep Lavenrunz clear of international aggression.

The Emperor does not withdraw the bounty of fifty million for the safe capture and extradition of Count Mirbach to the rightful government of Lavenrunz. We maintain our stance that Mirbach is a criminal and represents a clear and immediate threat to the stability of the region.

"Admiral - orders from the President."

Admiral Jesus Mendoza tore open the envelope and looked them over. He had known this was coming of course - his own contacts inside the council had informed him of the decision an hour ago. He read the orders aloud to the bridge officers.

'The 1st Armada is hereby ordered to Lavenrunz. There they will operate in support of the cordon around the nation under the command of Fleet Admiral Farragut of the Federation Space Naval Forces.

President Javier Marcos'

Mendoza walked over to the communications station and gestured to the Ensign who manned it.

"All ships of the 1st Armada - we have been given orders to sail for Lavenrunz in support of a 'No Contact' blockade. All ships are to make best possible speed for Lavenrunz. Further orders will be issued in route. Admiral Mendoza out."

---

Slowly the fleet turned to head for Lavenrunz. The faster frigates and cruisers pulled away from the carriers and battleships as they speed over the forest heading south over the Amazon basin. Fighters roared from the deck as the carriers launched flanking patrols and the armada gained momentum as their thrusters pushed them along.

Chimaea offers its Naval and Air Forces for the protection of Lavenrunz; though we are not strictly neutral, we do believe that Lavenrunz should be left alone to seek its destiny.

Since there are enough forces right now to hold off any breach of Lavenrunz territory, if you accept the offer we will not be joining immediately. Contact us if help is needed.

~Sir Reginald Styles
Governor of Chimaea

Message of the Empress of Lavenrunz

I thank all of those great nations which have stepped into the breech to prevent foreign countries from interfering with our affairs.
Secondly, I thank our own people, our own heroes who so rapidly mobilized to defend our shores.
Finally, I must thank those who have served in the capacity of state. Though I am grateful for her guardianship, friendship and wise counsel, I must ask now that Sirithil nos Feanor, Elentari of Menelmacar, and Renate von Saucken, Advisor of The Territory, to step down as Regent. For in my hand and my mind is the Great Seal of Lavenrunz which is the key to the safety of our land, and thus regardless of my age I am ruler in truth. In keeping with tradition, nevertheless, I ask my uncle, Carl von Sachshausen, to become my Guardian until I reach the proper age of majority.
Count Mirbach is a man whose rise to authority is complicated and unorthodox, but for his heroism in leading the country when it was leaderless until my return I thank him, and now ask him to step down as acting Chancellor.
To my people: we have a constitution, and we all must obey its laws. Therefore, as there is a division among the people with regard to the governance of Lavenrunz, I will ask for a vote of confidence in the Volksraad for Chancellor Claudia der Waal. Should this not be greeted with a majority in her favour, then I will call for a general election.
As for those persons involved in the forcible removal of my guests at the Winter Ball, I condemn them as traitors, and will hold a court of inquiry.

Empress Aurora

{Encrypted communique to Loyalist Lavenrunzian forces; EYES ONLY, tagged for Empress Aurora's viewing}

"Honoured Empress Aurora, it is my great regret to make this request, but I feel it most necessary.

"Over the past 24 hours, the Empire has made efforts to prevent interference in Lavenrunz, believing that such interference is unwelcome. As a stop-gap measure, we would like to ask permission to deploy a small force into an orbital position above Lavenrunz. If any force attempts to enter Lavenrunz without permission - which we would, naturally, be informed of ahead of time - then we would make every effort to turn them back, and prevent Lavenrunzian loss of life.

"The force in question, currently named the Neutrality Taskforce, is awaiting your decision in cislunar space.

"Any support that Lavenrunz requires from the Empire in any other form is, of course, at your fingertips.

"With the greatest respect,"

~ Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II of the Empire of the Eternal Dawn

{Transmission Terminates}[/quote]

~ Secure Transmission to EOTED~

To Her August Majesty, Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II

While I had requested aid of other parties, and they are responding,nevertheless I feel that because you had, I believe, a part to play in the withdrawal of Thelas I would like you to send the Taskforce to join that led by Sentient Peoples, and I will unless you disagree publish this message so that it is clear that you are present at my request.
Furthermore, I am so gratified by this offer that I would like to thank you personally for your kindness and friendship.

- Empress Aurora von Sachshausen of the Teutonic Empire of Lavenrunz

We Heil Empress Aurora and with joy greet her new rule sole Regent of the Lavenrunz people. Heil Lavenrunz run by her own children! Heil free democratic elections!
Nevertheless.....Lavenrunz should not be complacent.This day has been an extraordinary one for you , the events of this day will be unforgettable, but only with steady leadership and true devotion to the ideals of God and country will Lavenrunz steer herself back to her rightful place.
We believe that the government and the people must be one. If they are
not, the government has no right to exist. Governments must exist to serve the interests of the people... I know you Empress in the finest traditions of Lavenrunz will remember this, you will remember the great pure Christian blood that flows in you and your people.
I believe that no words can really ever pay worthy tribute to the martyrs of Lavenrunz and all the people of Good Conscience like Mirbach and yourself Empress...
So let me offer Iesus Christis loyalty instead of more words, my hand to you Empress in peace and fraternity!
Heil Aurora!
Heil Lavenrunz!

OOC:and of course we send the 4th fleet to the international force in international waters, like we promised.

(OOC: Consider the third of my previous posts postponed, in this case; I'm not going to delete it yet, as it may still happen that way, but we can play out this, first.)

IC:


The missing half of the camera team thanked Raven for being nice enough of telling them her exact position. The two cars were speeding towards their target sigsagging through traffic. The men checked their equipment and continued towards the place they knew she was in right now. They hoped they wouldn't get there too late or coming second or third. They knew there were a lot of people trying to get hold of Raven right now.

Raven was at the moment in the process of being escorted from the television studio by a group of soldiers -- the two plainclothes guards who had been assigned to her had been joined by three others in uniform. This number had been deemed not enough to cause excessive comment, but enough to either catch or subdue Raven if necessary and to protect her once she was with them. The car they had taken to the museum was waiting nearby, with a military jeep a bit further away.

(OOC: Consider the third of my previous posts postponed, in this case; I'm not going to delete it yet, as it may still happen that way, but we can play out this, first.)

IC:


The missing half of the camera team thanked Raven for being nice enough of telling them her exact position. The two cars were speeding towards their target sigsagging through traffic. The men checked their equipment and continued towards the place they knew she was in right now. They hoped they wouldn't get there too late or coming second or third. They knew there were a lot of people trying to get hold of Raven right now.

Raven was at the moment in the process of being escorted from the television studio by a group of soldiers -- the two plainclothes guards who had been assigned to her had been joined by three others in uniform. This number had been deemed not enough to cause excessive comment, but enough to either catch or subdue Raven if necessary and to protect her once she was with them. The car they had taken to the museum was waiting nearby, with a military jeep a bit further away.

We of course will lend what aid we can, as per the request of the Federation of Sentient Peoples under the authority of Empress Aurora. Our fleet will be making contact with Admiral Farragut as directed.

In addition, we wish to applaud the Empress for her handling of these trying times, showing both courage, steadfastness, and a wisdom beyond her years. The people of Lavenrunz are blessed to be gifted with such a loyal and wise leader as herself. We trust that Archduke Carl will serve her well in the role of Regent, and that the Volksraad and citizens, should they so be called on, will make well-informed choices in their voting.

We are pleased to see that internal politics for this great nation are being handled by those with a right to handle them - The Empress and her people. We condemn those who seek to force the hand of Lavenrunz, or to influence her policies through machinations or military might. We do however join in the condemnation of those responsible for the unfortunate happenings at the Winter Ball, as we have previously stated, and are pleased to hear that the Empress plans to address this situation.

May God watch over and bless both you and your Nation, Empress Aurora.

--Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion

---------------------------------------------------------------

Silently, the Dominion ships of Angelan design slipped into place, as directed, taking up a quiet watch with the other forces so mustered.


10 Raptors (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/raptor.html) 10 Falchions (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/falchion.html)
5 Alliances (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/alliance.html)
7 Revenants (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/revenant.html)
25 Mirrors (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/mirror.html)
25 Interceptors (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/interceptor.html)
260 Hunters (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/hunter.html)
200 Zephyrs (http://www.silentrequiem.net/angelus/zephyr.html)

The Whispering Voices expeditionary forces continued moving, cutting through the sea and air like a set of honed blades.

Aboard the HCC Townsend, the flagship of the fleet, Private First Class Jackson watched the scene in front of him with baited breath: it was the Expeditionary Tiddlywinks championship, and Captain Stein was about to make the crucial flip. The soldiers and pilots crowded around, watching: a case of finest brandy, a silver cup, and months of military boredom hung on the next movement of his fingers ...

"Attention all crew. A small Thelasian force has been spotted approaching us. Please upgrade to Yellow Alert."

Stein, startled by the sudden announcement, missed the flip. Jackson whooped with laughter, and punched the air.

"Yeaaaaaa baby! Come to daddy!" He grabbed the brandy, and cradled it like a precious child. Stein swore and glared up. "I hope we get to kill those bastard elves for that."

"No chance," chimed in a random and nameless aviatrix whose only purpose was to make the following comment. "Thelas doesn't even breath without direct permission from Menelmacar. They'll just run away with their tail between their legs."

Nevertheless, the fleet prepared for attack.



OOC:
Thelas, given you've made no effort whatsoever to acquire any of the technology in the Wisps or even find out how they work IC, don't be surprised if your 'anti-Wisp' tech totally fails. Besides which, slapping a giant EM generator on something isn't actually going to do anything to the way a Wisp works.

"My fellow subjects of Lavenrunz.
When it was clear that our country was in a deadlock, under the implacable regency of the Menelmacari, I was called on by loyal citizens and asked by them to act. I repeat: I would have preferred the life on my ancestral farm, ending my days in familial peace. But it was not to be.
Sadly, some of my confederates acted with a zeal beyond reason, so affected were they by their disillusionment and hatred. Nevertheless, their passion does not excuse them, and I hope that God will in His infinite mercy forgive them.
As for me, I will gladly now submit myself to the will of my Empress and my country once again."

Count Joachim von Mirbach

(TV transmission shows the man in a grey overcoat, his fair hair covered by a lambskin cap, walking down the steps of the Chancery. The soldiers outside, a voiceover says, have been instructed that he is due no honours. Nevertheless, the soldiers slap their rifle butts on the ground as his foot touches the street--a private salute from them. He pauses and crosses himself as a bell tolls, and then gets into a private car which drives away)

The Confederacy of Ravenspire is happy to see that the situation has been resolved swiftly and relatively peacefully. We offer our condolences to the families and friends of those injured and those whose lives were lost during the incident.

Our best wishes to Empress Aurora von Sachshausen, who has proven herself a wise and capable leader in preventing a greater tragedy.

Alaric Morgannan
Chief Diplomat

The Federation of Glorious Humanity also salutes Empress Aurora for her excellent handling of this situation, and looks forward to establishing closer diplomatic relations with Lavenrunz. Allow me to assure the Empress that the unfortunately events at the Winter Ball did not blacken my heart towards her or her country, and I hope that our nations will become great friends.

Mark Albert
President
Federation of Glorious Humanity

*************************************************************

"And now, KQCB news at Six." Carp was shuffling his papers even more eagerly than usual. He looked up at the camera and started speaking as soon as the light turned green.

"Good evening Glorious Humanity. Tonight, we are thrilled to report that the Lavenrunz crisis has come to an agreeable and peaceful end. Today the Empress Aurora von Sachshausen publicly announced that she was taking her throne, and asked acting Chancellor Mirbach to step down from his post. He did so without any objection, and it seems that no further blood will be spilled over this incident. President Albert, newly returned from his vacation, has released a statement congratulating the Empress, and has also publicly stated that he hopes to establish good ties with Lavenrunz in the future. In other news..."

Treznor sighs and clears his throat. "I asked for a meeting because I have some things I wanted to discuss with you personally. I hope you'll forgive the imposition."

"There is no imposition, your Majesty." says Aurora. She is wearing a simple blue dress and sandals; her fair hair falls naturally to her shoulders. However, around her neck is the medallion her mother bequeathed to her.

Nathicana sits down in one of the comfortable chairs, directing Gianni to go retrieve some refreshments. "Please, make yourselves comfortable," she says, taking note of the medalion with a quiet smile.

Treznor stands in his traditional black and silver, looking oddly formal in an informal setting. "First and foremost, I wanted to apologise for going off half-cocked as I did, threatening your national affairs in violation of my own policy." He nods to Nathicana. "I'm afraid the NDA is going to have to review my use of military vessels."

"That's alright." Aurora says, smiling a little smile. "I know you were angry. I feel bad for how you were treated," she looks at he and Nathicana, "Especially since you were my guests at the time."

"It was not your fault," Nathicana says simply. "As I've said before, I owe you a debt of thanks for getting me out of there. With the current climate, considering the circumstances, I could have been facing a murder charge at best." To Devon, she nods in return. "All in good time."

"Regardless of the provocation, my reaction was excessive. Whatever personal motivations I may have had, I remember telling someone else before that as heads of state, we carry our borders along with us. Thus, I ask you to accept my apology."

Aurora nearly wants to laugh at all the gravity, but she hides this. "I do, and ask you to accept mine." she says, holding out her hand.

Treznor reaches out to accept the handshake. "Thank you. And I likewise accept. There's one more thing. What will you do with Mirbach?"

"Do?" Aurora asks, lifting an eyebrow. "He will be investigated, for now."

Nathicana watches quietly, thanking Gianni as he brings in a tray of antipasta along with three glasses and for now, ice water.

Treznor frowns and snags a glass from Gianni's tray. He takes a sip and scowls as it realises it's only water. He glances at Nathicana, but doesn't comment. "Mirbach is a thorny problem. I realise you have your national interests to consider, but he's most directly responsible for the crimes committed in the palace. He lifted himself to the status of international criminal, which is why I posted the bounty on him.

"Frankly, Majesty, the man is a criminal, and I'm not going to be content until I see him punished. But as a Lavenrunz citizen, I'm content to leave that punishment up to you, either officially or unofficially."

Aurora says, "It's not that simple." she takes a sip of water and continues. "Mirbach has become a hero. I make heroes of course, but sometimes they make themselves. And really...I am not entirely impressed...present company excepted...with his enemies."

"So we have a conflict of interests. Do you have a solution to suggest?"

Nathicana gives Devon a little smile at his reaction. "I think you're wise in taking things slow, Aurora. So long as you're aware, you can keep an eye on the man and take careful action as needed. Given his status and all ..." She takes a slow sip herself, then gestures towards the kitchen. "Should you want anything else, simply ask."

"Thank you, Nathicana." Aurora says gravely. "You're very kind and thoughtful."

Nathicana shakes her head. "No ... I've simply had to deal with similar situations before. One thing you must keep in mind however, is that such people bear constant watching. You allow them too much freedom, and you'll find yourself again in the midst of a coup."

"I know." Aurora says. "Also, thank you both for forming the blockade, I appreciate that."

"There are indeed times when you find that circumstances require you to stay your hand, whether you like it or not." Nathi nods and smiles. "It is the least we could do. It didn't take a genious to see the delicateness of the political situation there. Though from the reactions of some, you'd think otherwise."

"My question stands, however. What are you going to do with this 'hero?'"

"Well, if he is caught by the court of inquiry, I'll watch his head rot on the gates of the Autumn Palace." says Aurora with adolescent callousness. "And if not...he'll probably be 'urged' to run for Chancellor."

"He has continued to refer to his retirement. I'd encourage that. Perhaps trot him out for public events where neccessary. That will, of course, depend on the vote. Apply pressure where you can, is my advice."

Treznor scowls a little deeper and drains his glass in a single gulp. "And what would you give his chances of surviving the court of inquiry, let alone election as Chancellor?"

"Thank you." Aurora says. "But honestly...if I can speak plainly, you foreigners don't understand Lavenrunz." she looks at Treznor directly. "You want me to kill him by some means. But you don't see that..." she frowns, trying to think.

"Look, I used to have this tutor. And when I didn't do my lessons right, he beat me. But do you konw HOW he had to do it?"

Nathicana arches a brow at that. "He ... what?"

"He would bow profoundly and ask my permission to administer correction." says Aurora.

Treznor shakes his head sharply. "You misunderstand me. To kill him would make a martyr of him. There are better fates than that. I'm curious to hear what you have in mind."

"Reward him, if he wins. Kill him if he fails." Aurora says coldly, looking at him.

"Forgive me, but the notion of Mirbach standing as Chancellor of Lavenrunz...disturbs me. What sort of influence would he carry in that role?"

<LOS Communications - Nathicana>
{
>> C'mon, you're the good cop here. Jump in any time.

"As the leader of the cabinet, for a start. There are ceremonial roles too." Aurora says.

<LOS Communications - Devon>
{
>> And just what would you have me say, dear?

Nathicana mutters something with a decidedly dark look under her breath. "You've been raised to rule, Aurora. Which is why I'm inclined to trust your judgement on internal matters. As if I had a choice in the matter," she says with a wry grin. "Devon, so long as she knows, I am certain there are ways she can monitor and contain any problems he may present. In ridding herself of Siri and Renate, she has already taken care of his biggest complaint."

<LOS – Nathi>
>> Hmm…I think you just did.

"And also silence all those other people I don't know...and have time to find out who they are. Sirithil didn't understand how to do that. She is a good friend and ally but she didn't know how to solve our problems. I don't know either...but I was raised to rule Lavenrunz."

<LOS – Devon>
>> Great minds think alike, or … [chuckle analog]

Nathicana nods firmly. "She means well, I'm sure ... but she does not always see past her own interests to the bigger picture, I'm afraid. I'm certain she did her best, but you were right in dismissing her. And, I think, in chosing Carl. He was the preferred choice for Regent by the rebel forces, yes?"

Treznor growls and throws the glass against the wall, savouring the sound of it shattering to pieces. "I'm looking for some sort of assurance that Mirbach is not going to walk away from pointing a gun at me and other honourable world leaders before trussing us up like sacrificial lambs. Yes, he let us go, but his timing for the event was piss poor. I want to hear what's to be done about it."

<LOS – Nathi>
>> If the girl is going to buckle under international pressure, it's best to learn about it now.

<LOS – Devon>
>> You bastard. [grin analog]

<LOS – Nathi>
>> This is news?

Aurora flinches and then glares at him. "If I can deal with nearly my WHOLE FAMILY being murdered--and deal with someone I strongly suspect of ordering it because acting before I'm good and ready is what's best--then you can too."

<LOS – Devon>
>> And you wonder why I like this girl.

<LOS – Nathi>
>> Not anymore. [grin analog]

Nathicana arches a brow, and tilts her chin up in that imperious way she has about her. "Devon, I would ask that you contain your emotions, at least while a guest in my home. What happened, happened. We all walked away from it. Aurora is doing the right thing." She looks approvingly at Aurora, giving Devon an almost imperceptible nod. "Well said, your Majesty," she says to Aurora quietly, taking a sip of her water.

<LOS – Devon>
>>I told you, boy. She -has- what it takes. She only needs the opportunity to show it. And I think that disk gave it to her.

Treznor finds a seat to sink into, and sinks into it. "All right. I'm outnumbered." He glares briefly at Nathicana, then turns back to Aurora. "But I have a small suggestion to make, should Mirbach survive the inquiry. Are you interested?"

"Go ahead."

"How solvent are Mirbach's holdings? How does he rank among Lavenrunz peers in wealth?"

"He's only moderately well off. Um.." Aurora glances at her servants. "Toll, what are Mirbach's holdings?"

One of the ladies in waiting, an almost stereotypical buxom fair haired woman, takes out a daytimer like device. "Mirbach, may it please Your Majesty, has submitted general accounts to the amount of one hundred twenty five marks, net worth."

"And his compatriots? I think it would be wise to look into any transactions and communications you can outside Lavenrunz concerning Mirbach."

"Hmph. That doesn't really answer my question, but so be it. I withdraw the suggestion."

"Well, nearly thirty billion dollars has been donated to the Christian-Nationalist party." Aurora says drily. "What did you want to know?" Aurora asks Treznor.

<LOS – Nathi>
>> That brings up an interesting question. Who was bankrolling Mirbach's coup? I know for a fact you can't do what he did without a massive amount of money, if only to keep things quiet.

<LOS – Devon>
>> Unknown. We'd been poking around quietly there for some time, but obviously, we managed to miss all of this. I was under the impression things had quieted, or I'd have not attended that party. I wish I knew more.

Nathicana arches up both brows at that. "From who, if I might ask?"

"We're investigating." Aurora says demurely.

Treznor grins. "Point. Match. All right, I'm satisfied. Lavenrunz is in good hands. Congratulations, Empress. You'll make a formidable peer."

Nathicana nods, her expression once more, approving.

<LOS – Devon>
>> [smile analog] Sitting here, watching her ... I can't help but wonder.

<LOS – Nathi>
>>I don't. Point. Match. She's already ahead of me.

<LOS – Devon>
>> No ... that's not what I meant. [chuckle analog] But yes ... I approve.

"Thank you." Aurora smiles; she has her mother's gorgeous smile that is like sun on flowers.

<LOS – Nathi>
>> I know what you mean. And no, I dno't think she bankrolled Mirbach. She could surprise me, but no, I don't think so. That doesn't mean she couldn't have quietly encouraged the coup. But she couldn't have counted on you being where you were, and she couldn't have counted on retrieving the necklace after the murder. Too many ifs that don't quite add up to a conspiracy.

"I agree, Dev. I've seen her under pressure. She's going to make one hell of a leader." Nathi smiles fondly at Aurora, for no reason in particular.

<LOS – Devon>
>> You ... goddamn, man. That one escaped me entirely. You can say it. I let sentimentality get in the way again. Maledizione, Dev. Why didn't you say something before?

<LOS – Nathi>
>> What makes you think I thought of it before? It certainly wasn't on my mind during the coup.

<LOS – Devon>
>> I'm losing my edge, so help me. [frown analog]

<LOS – Nathi>
>> Don't blame yourself. We were just talking the other day about how people tend to underestimate Aurora for her age. Who's to say we weren't suckered in as well? It didn't occur to me until I watched her under pressure a moment ago.

Aurora blushes. "You two are a good team." she observes a bit slyly.

Nathicana flashes Devon a smile. "It's been said," she replies, glancing back at Aurora with a wink.

Treznor assumes his best poker face. "We've had plenty of practice."

Nathicana coughs lightly at that, hiding it with another sip of her water, and grinning.

<LOS – Devon>
>> She's certainly seen enough of betrayal and deceit to have taken lessons, in spite of it all. If true, dear lord ... perhaps we've more in common than I thought.
}

C'tan Confederate Internal Security Agency Substation, Regional Embassy of Tareldanore.

The room was comfortable. A substation like this was provided on setting up of pretty much every Regional Embassy the Confederacy had. They tended not to be used very frequently for anything more than routine information gathering. In the centre of the room two logistics operatives preformed a complex operation, intended at disposing of any electronic trail showing ISA involvement in the entire affair.

Senior Field Agent Mcintee sat watching the holo updating with news reports, annoyingly the empress had returned, meaning that prime target was no longer quite so easy to justify taking out. He'd come to the point of deciding to deal with the man in the long term, if no one else cancelled him first, though they would all prefer to bring Mirbach in, keeping tabs on him for now until he was either dead or obtainable.

The money intended for Mirbach was sitting in front of him, one hundred million credits, undelivered, all in an anonymous currency. The two cases containing the antique paper notes were sealed by a pair of armed officers and removed. Now it was time to wait, and see when Mirbach would be available for extraction, then they would move, not before.

"Damn it." D'ron whirled to face the room. "I want him hanging in the public square for kidnapping, not becoming chancelor of Lavenrunz."

"Mister President," Bruce began. "We can't..."

"I don't want to hear can't. I want a way." D'ron cut him off. "No one threatens my sister. No one. Do you understand that?"

"Yes, Mister President, I do. All of us do." Bruce continued. He had been a bit bolder in Council meets ever since returning from the Dominion. "But the decision is that of Lavenrunz, and of Aurora herself. We can play no part in it."

"Bullshit. There must be a way." D'ron didn't want discussion right now. He wanted agreement, and options. He was, unfortunately, thinking with his heart and not his head.

Currey spoke up now. "Mister President, I'm afraid there is not one. Not one that involves anything short of an illegal action inside a foreign country."

D'ron's reply was short and to the point. "So?"

A quiet female voice spoke from the doorway, now, a voice that did not belong in council meetings. "D'ron," Jessica began, "you can't do this."

D'ron whirled on his sister, eyes flashing angrily. "Firstly, why not? And secondly, you're not allowed in here."

Not being in his employ, and instead, being his sister, Jessica could speak more clearly, to D'ron. "In answer to your second point, I think I should be allowed to be there when I am the object of the discussion." D'ron opened his mouth to dispute this, but she continued, not letting him speak. Jessica stalked into the holoconference room, and her image, not just her voice, began to be transmitted. "In answer to your first query, there are a number of reasons. Firstly, you won't convict him. I'll refuse to press charges or testify if you do manage to get him out of Lavenrunz." D'ron face registered shock at this. "Not because I don't want to see him hang, brother, but because I know it would be better for the Federation, and our relations with Lavenrunz, to do so. Secondly, Lavenrunz isn't going to hand him over, because he's become, to some extent, a hero there. So you'd have to remove him by force. You would have to send military personnel into a foreign country to remove a private citizen, and perhaps government official, from that country, by force. That's an act of war, brother mine, and precisely what Mirbach did at the Ball. Don't stink to the level of his scum." Jessica smiled wryly. "I love you, brother, and I know you love me, but you need to stop thinking with your balls and your heart, and think with the part of your anatomy designed for it." She threw her arms around D'ron in a hug, and then quickly spun and walked out, leaving D'ron standing there.

The Council was speechless. Even Cortana, who was the one who had gotten Jessica to sneak down to the meeting, once she had seen where it was going, had no words. After about thirty seconds of silence, D'ron turned to face the council again. He spoke quitely now, the anger gone. "Well, I think that that settled the matter. Thank you all. Dismissed."

He waved his hand over a small control, ending the discussion.

------------------

<TRANSMISSION Opens: Light Diplomatic Encryption>
<TO: EMPRESS Aurora, Lavenrunz>
<FROM: FADM Farragut, FSP>

The coalition forces can probably remain in position for a week, or so, if you need them while things are settling down in Lavenrunz. Let us know what you need. But I am going to pull them back to just outside the thirty mile limit while we await your decision. No need to interfere with anyone else, since the situation seems to be resolving itself.

Fleet Admiral Farragut, FSPSN

<TRANSMISSION Terminates>

<TRANSMISSION Opens: Coalition Encryption>
<TO: CO, Coalition Forces>
<FROM: FADM Farragut, FSP>

I'm would like to request that surface and atmospheric assets redeploy to within a mile outside the thirty mile limit of Lavenrunz. No need to interfere with people we don't need to.

Fleet Admiral Farragut, FSPSN

<TRANSMISSION Terminates>

[Just carrying on from what was going on by the docks before, and incidentally, this has all been agreed beforehand before anyone jumps on me over blockades and stuff.]

Federal Mark 7 A3 Mammoth Tank, Zwoll Harbour waterfront

Haruka wakes up, glancing around the bridge section of the Mammoth Tank, and blinks, noting the incoming radio call light on her console, 'Dammit, must've drifted off...' she places the headset to her ear, a slightly uncomfortable operation for a Neko with a regular headset, and starts recieving.

Sea near Zwoll, cargo ship Mantua and escort group

'Zwoll Harbourmaster, this is Federal cargo vessel Mantua requesting permission to dock, over.'

At the same time her two escort ships began to pull away, slowly turning towards the Naval Air Station. A young woman's voice came in over their radio, 'Naval air station, this is Air Destroyer Goliath, requesting permission to enter harbour airspace along with the Air Destroyer Leopard.' Even as far out as the three vessels are, the two Air Destroyers could be made out, both painted in arctic camouflage and hovering about fifty feet above the Mantua.

Air Destroyer Goliath

Aki flicked off thr radio and sat back, waiting for a response. Traffic from Lavenrunz had been a little confusing and erratic in the last day or so, but with both escorts not having fuel to turn around she hadn't really had much choice but to press on and hope for the best. She frowned, This ship's running on vapour and Leopard's not much better off...I hope this hasn't blown up as badly as some of it sounds like it has...

Raven was at the moment in the process of being escorted from the television studio by a group of soldiers -- the two plainclothes guards who had been assigned to her had been joined by three others in uniform. This number had been deemed not enough to cause excessive comment, but enough to either catch or subdue Raven if necessary and to protect her once she was with them. The car they had taken to the museum was waiting nearby, with a military jeep a bit further away.

One of the men looked out through the car and pointed towards the entrance. They saw Raven and a group of people obviously being guards of some sort. A short second they considered doing a drive-by thus shooting her down when she came out on the street but the large amount of armed personel on the streets made them reconsider. They drove a hundred more meters and then stopped, trying to make up a plan. None of them were suicidal, they were all extremely well trained, and their estimation told them that killing Raven in such unorganized manner would most likely end in them getting killed. They decided to abort their mission.

Message of the Empress of Lavenrunz

I thank all of those great nations which have stepped into the breech to prevent foreign countries from interfering with our affairs.
Secondly, I thank our own people, our own heroes who so rapidly mobilized to defend our shores.
Finally, I must thank those who have served in the capacity of state. Though I am grateful for her guardianship, friendship and wise counsel, I must ask now that Sirithil nos Feanor, Elentari of Menelmacar, and Renate von Saucken, Advisor of The Territory, to step down as Regent. For in my hand and my mind is the Great Seal of Lavenrunz which is the key to the safety of our land, and thus regardless of my age I am ruler in truth. In keeping with tradition, nevertheless, I ask my uncle, Carl von Sachshausen, to become my Guardian until I reach the proper age of majority.
Count Mirbach is a man whose rise to authority is complicated and unorthodox, but for his heroism in leading the country when it was leaderless until my return I thank him, and now ask him to step down as acting Chancellor.
To my people: we have a constitution, and we all must obey its laws. Therefore, as there is a division among the people with regard to the governance of Lavenrunz, I will ask for a vote of confidence in the Volksraad for Chancellor Claudia der Waal. Should this not be greeted with a majority in her favour, then I will call for a general election.
As for those persons involved in the forcible removal of my guests at the Winter Ball, I condemn them as traitors, and will hold a court of inquiry.

Empress Aurora
Sirithil's stateroom, MIS Gilthoniel, en route to Puerto Rico

"LEADERLESS!?!?" Sirithil roared. :evil:

"Milady?" Turelio asked.

"She broke her promise, Turelio. She said she would speak well of me. I was doing well in the regency. Were it not for that traitor, and for that fool Theallas... I am disgusted! To set that terrorist up as some sort of statesman when I am humiliated... it is an insult! It is a slap in my face, after all I have done for Lavenrunz."

"So..."

"So nothing. I am better than that. I will keep my promises. I am going to make a statement. I am going to abdicate. And then afterwards I am going to go somewhere quiet and I am going to break something very expensive. Now excuse me for a moment."


After counting to ten, with nice, deep breaths, Sirithil stepped through the door into the press room.

------------

Statement on ISN

"Neri a nissi (Gentlemen and ladies), peoples of Menelmacar, Lavenrunz, and the world. It is with sadness and regret, though out of love for the Teutonic Empire of Lavenrunz and its people, that I hereby accede to the request of Empress Aurora von Sachshausen and abdicate the Regency. It is my hope that this action will lead to an era of peace and tolerance in Lavenrunz. I wish the young Empress all the best in her future reign.

Thank you all, and may God bless Lavenrunz."

Sirithil stepped away from the podium; reporters stood up, all asking questions at once.

"There will be no questions."

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/sirithil/sirithilnosfeanor.gifLady Sirithil nos Fëanor
Elentári of the Eternal Noldorin Empire of Menelmacar
Regent-Emeritus of Lavenrunz
"We have known freedom's price. We have shown freedom's power. We will see freedom's victory."
~US President George W. Bush
We Love the Iraqi Information Minister (http://www.welovetheiraqiinformationminister.com)
Clicky-clicky!

OOC: I have an OOC responce from Theallas:

"Aww crap, I am really in trouble now..."

Now back to trying to escape a NY&NJ supermax...

Meanwhile, the quiescent Whispering Voices fleet, having not seen the Thelasian aggressors yet turn back, sent this message over shortband radio to the Thelasian commander:

"Continued approach of your forces will be seen as an act of aggression. Turn back or be crushed."

{Encrypted transmission to Empress Aurora of Lavenrunz; EYES ONLY}

"If it would please Your Majesty, I would be most proud to accept your thanks in the only truly personal manner that is ever possible: face-to-face. Indeed, I have been contemplating a visit to your fair land for some time; and the visit of foreign dignitaries may serve to act as a symbol that Lavenrunz is 'getting back to normal' as quickly as possible.

"If there were any danger, it could be reasoned, then I would not visit. In truth, there may well be danger... but I feel that the potential advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.

"If this is not acceptable, then I still, nontheless, heartily accept your thanks, and trust that we shall not need to recieve thanks for such a thing again in the future - from yourself or any other.

"With warmth,"

~ Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II

{Transmission terminates}

* * *

Although the force may no longer be needed, the Taskforce moves makes a gentle, graceful slow-accelerative-curve transition from cislunar space into a high MS orbit above Lavenrunz.

The gunports on the ships in the Taskforce are fimly closed, and particle emissions suggest that weapons systems are running 'cold'.

OOC: Okay, then that third post happens as written.

That night, Aurora dreamed......

She ran through the grass, which lay soft and bright under her bare feet. The sky was clear and blue, without a cloud in sight, and the sun beamed down on her bare arms, legs and face like a benevolent mother. Tireless and free, she flitted over the rolling hills, and laughed at the sight of the young rabbits hopping around in the fields, as brooks and streams burbled with joy at the sight of her.

Far in the distance, a wooded copse rose up toward the sky, and from the midst of the towering oaks rose a thin stream of smoke, and she ran toward it, borne by her burgeoning curiousity.

Among the trees, birds trilled in song, and squirrels leapt from branch to branch with unlimited exuberance, as Aurora crept toward the beckoning smoke. Suddenly, she burst into a tiny clearing, in which roses and violets, carnations and tulips, all grew around a squat little cottage, which could best be described as 'quaint', and from the open doorway came the alluring scent of baking cookies.

Cautiously, but without any real fear, for such was the welcoming warmth that radiated from the place, she stepped through the doorway, into a bright and cheerful farmhouse kitchen. Standing at the stove, whistling a strange tune, which Aurora could not quite manage to focus on, as it slipped over her mind like water over a rock, was a tall, distinguished looking figure, with greying hair, and a friendly grin which made her almost compelled to trust him. He brushed back his untidy locks over his pointed ears as she entered, and offered her a cookie.

"Greetings young lady. You look hungry, have a cookie!"

And as he spoke, Aurora did indeed feel somewhat peckish, and bit into the offered treat, which tasted better than anything which had ever passed her lips before.

"Do take a seat, and tell me all about yourself while I cook!"

And, so she did, perching upon the edge of the table, as he bustled around the kitchen, busying himself with a vast assortment of pots and pans, all bubbling away and releasing gorgeous smells into the air, but as she came to her 'Aunty Sirithil', the old man winced visibly.

"What's wrong mister?"

"Oh, nothing's wrong with me young one. It's just that you mentioning Elentari Sirithil with such affection shocked me a little. Never mind! Carry on with what you were saying."

"Don't you like my Aunt Sirithil?"

The old man turned to face her,

"Like and dislike have nothing to do with it. It's just that...."

"That what?"

"Well...a long, long time ago, your Aunty Sirithil did some very bad things which hurt a lot of people very badly."

"What sort of bad things?"

"Oh, it doesn't matter. From the way you speak about her, I'm sure she's changed a lot since I knew her. Just forget I said anything."

And although Aurora continued to ask questions, the old man refused to say anything further about Sirithil, and instead began to reel off a long story about a strange world where the wind talked and the earth sang, and all sorts of other bizarre things happened, and eventually, she found her eyelids becoming droopy, as she fell asleep.

The next morning Aurora awoke, but, unlike most dreams, this one did not fade away with the light of dawn, but lingered in her mind, almost as if it had been no dream at all.

Well this is a party-pooper. Lousy Thelas...

The billowing storm swept up toward the coast of Lavenrunz, sending screaming winds gusting through the trees, carrying great gusts of driving rain in its wake. Out at sea, within the heart of the storm, five gigantic shadows loomed, moving inexorably toward the beach, wreathed in towering pillars of mist and cloud, and across the rocky waves wafted the faintest strains of music.

Then at last, with a barely audible bump, the shadows met the sandy shores of Lavenrunz, and the storm began to melt away. The winds and the waves quieted, and the clouds dispersed, revealing a quintet of what less resembled ships than great palaces, formed entirely from gleaming gold.




Message from the Kalessin Ministry of Peace to the Government of Lavenrunz:

"The fleet which you requested that we send should have reached your shores by now. So as not to accidently disturb the residents of the area, the commanders of the troops on board have been asked not to disembark their warriors until a representative of your government is present to guide them."

By morning, the LRR fleet is in radar range of the other fleets off the coast of Lavenrunz. EH-101s start to perform ASW patrols around the fleet, and defense weapons systems are prepared for combat. Overhead, a Tu-142 provides AWACS protection. The LRR fleet command is very worried about the rather primitive, when compared to the other combatants, technology in use by the LRR fleet. There were several Hauk class corvettes purchased in the 1970's in the mix.

The fleet turns, and heads towards the Lavenrunz coast. This time, the ships form into parade formation, and fly the flag of the Red Banner Northern Fleet. Signal flags are hoisted to the top of lofty masts declaring the ship's nationality.

The fleet heads towards the coast of Lavenrunz.

OOC: I feel bad for you, LRR, that you didn't read my post closely enough. If perhaps you had, you might have realized the foolishness of attempting to hail a space ship in stationary powered orbit 100 miles above the planet with a megaphone from the deck of a surface ship.

I'd suggest editing your post accordingly, at which point, this will become an IC response.

The billowing storm swept up toward the coast of Lavenrunz, sending screaming winds gusting through the trees, carrying great gusts of driving rain in its wake. Out at sea, within the heart of the storm, five gigantic shadows loomed, moving inexorably toward the beach, wreathed in towering pillars of mist and cloud, and across the rocky waves wafted the faintest strains of music.

Then at last, with a barely audible bump, the shadows met the sandy shores of Lavenrunz, and the storm began to melt away.

OOC: Er, no. I object. As I mentioned on-channel, it is simply not possible for you to sneak a fleet through the kind of surveillance that is being dedicated to the area around Lavenrunz. If you want to get into Lavenrunzian waters, you'll need to address those forces which would not simply permit you to pass, including at minimum my own and Menelmacar's, both of which have been present at their locations for weeks RL time -- long before you launched.

OOC: Er, no. I object. As I mentioned on-channel, it is simply not possible for you to sneak a fleet through the kind of surveillance that is being dedicated to the area around Lavenrunz. If you want to get into Lavenrunzian waters, you'll need to address those forces which would not simply permit you to pass, including at minimum my own and Menelmacar's, both of which have been present at their locations for weeks RL time -- long before you launched.

I'm afraid I have to disagree. Some time ago, Kalession wrote this:

Message from the Kalessin Ministry of Peace to Count Mirbach:

"We have been instructed by the Emperor to invite Lavenrunz to join the Arda alliance. However, in order to become and remain a member, we must insist that neither the government not the people of Lavenrunz engage in any form of non-hostile relations with the government of people of any elven nation. As concerns your request for military aid, a squadron of five battle-barges, each carrying twenty thousand Kalessini warriors, has been dispatched."

I don't beleive, in the span of that time, anyone declared that they were moving to interpose themselves between Kalessin and his target. Sure, the fleets are there, but it's the responsibility of the defender to post their attack, or maneuver first. Furthermore, the initial post was in fact, several pages ago. But I confess I haven't really read everything, so I could be completely full of shit.

There's been an awful lot going on behind the scene, but he hasn't really had all that much to do with it, from what I can see. I dont really know at this point what Kalessin can even do, and I dont think [for some reason] that he intends to attack you. Just my two cents, take it or leave it.]

As the 1st Armada got closer they also got lower - the massive hover drives blowing up huge sprays of water around the ships to make radar locks difficult. They began to slow as well, and split into two sections. As they slowed mesh-rotors began to take off from many of them.

Tenders also came alongside, moving through the fleet like a farmer in a coop. Fuel was transfered over as well as food and other supplies. Then those that had dropped their supplies turned north along with a pair of frigates for the voyage home. At the same time a new group of tenders left El Hefe. This cycle would continue as long as the 1st Armada was deployed.

Admiral Mendoza waited on the bridge of the battleship 'Simone Boliviar'. He had sent messages ahead to arrange a meeting with the other Admirals - a deck was cleared for the transport that he would likely need to reach them.

OOC: Er, no. I object. As I mentioned on-channel, it is simply not possible for you to sneak a fleet through the kind of surveillance that is being dedicated to the area around Lavenrunz. If you want to get into Lavenrunzian waters, you'll need to address those forces which would not simply permit you to pass, including at minimum my own and Menelmacar's, both of which have been present at their locations for weeks RL time -- long before you launched.


OOC: You've misquoted. Lavenrunz didn't write that; I did.

I'm afraid I have to disagree. Some time ago, Kalession wrote this:

[deleted for space]
I don't beleive, in the span of that time, anyone declared that they were moving to interpose themselves between Kalessin and his target.

OOC: I've been in position since the Winter Ball thread. I have written several times about my ships, satellites, and so forth being in position. The information has been available.

Sure, the fleets are there, but it's the responsibility of the defender to post their attack, or maneuver first.


OOC: But it's nonsensical for the ships to maneuver when Kalessin left. The ships were already between Kalessin's force and Lavenrunz, and precise positioning would be impossible at that distance. It is Kalessin's responsibility to attempt to get by the intervening ships that are already present. At the very least, that means a post when he draws near. But he went straight from departing Kalessin to landing in Lavenrunz. There was no opportunity to reasonably maneuver or do anything else, despite the fact that surprise was, for several reasons, impossible. Not the least among them, that he publically announced he was coming.

And the posts did make clear that foreign military vessels would be turned away.

Completely ignoring the intervening forces is godmoding.


There's been an awful lot going on behind the scene, but he hasn't really had all that much to do with it, from what I can see. I dont really know at this point what Kalessin can even do, and I dont think [for some reason] that he intends to attack you. Just my two cents, take it or leave it.]

OOC: No, I don't believe that he does. But that's irrelevant. It's not realistic for him to land on Lavenrunz without encountering any of the forces that have been arrayed to watch over it and prevent outside nations from interfering with it.

Three pairs of eyes looked through three sets of over-engineered binoculars.

"Those ships are pretty damn impressive..."
"Sure are."
"Yup."

A pause.

"They're getting closer."
"Sure are."
"Yup."

Another pause.

"Hey Megan? Didn't you work on the Leopard?"
"Yeah. They're even more impressive up close."
"Yup."

Yet another pause.

"Christ! Do you three ever do any actual work?!"

The three technitions from the Hack stopped gawking at the air destroyers and turned to look at a rather irritated GMC soldier.

"What? What's wrong now? We fixed the fire control system already." Arton frowned, lighting up a cigarette, a rather indignant look on his face.

"Look," the soldier sighed, "there's a sizable cargo ship that's coming in with those air destroyers. It would be... appretiated... if you could help unload them."

The three techies looked at each other, shruged, and went inside to await the cargo ship.

OOC:

Given that there is no solid physical wall around Lavenrunz waters, there was nothing stopping my fleet. I quite deliberately waited several days between posts in expectation of a reply from one of the blockading forces. None came, therefore, no action was taken, and the passage of my fleet was ignored by the blockaders, indicating that my status as an invited party must have provided immunity in this case.

OOC: Actually, Mirbach DID invite Kalessin forces in, guys.

IC:
Message to the Imperial Kalessin Expeditionary Force

With deepest gratitude and fondest affection we thank his Majesty for sending us aid. Our greatest need at this time is for foreign nations to be prevented from landing on our shores, and we ask that if possible you join these forces and strengthen our cause of self-determination.

General Hans Schlabel, Minister for War.

<TRANSMISSION Opens: Heavy Diplomatic Encryption>
<TO: EMPRESS Aurora and her Ministers, Lavenrunz>
<FROM: FADM Farragut, FSP>

Honored Empress Aurora,

While I understand that the Kalessini forces are there by request of the Count Mirbach during his time in office, I must express concern for their presence. The Imperial Kalessini Military has, in the past, repeatedly used magics of a most arcane varity, including the breaching of a gateway to Hell itself and summoning demons forth to do battle for them.

I urge you to watch them carefully, and not allow a single one of them inside your country, at least, in this trying time.

Respectfully,

FADM Farragut, FSPSN

<TRANSMISSION Terminates>

<TRANSMISSION Opens: In the Clear>
<TO: Lunatic Retard Robots Naval Forces, Whispering Voices Naval Forces>
<FROM: FADM Farragut, FSP>

This will be your only warning. Do not attempt to breach the Lavenrunzian National Waters. Any attempt to do so will be considered hostile, and will result on you being fired upon.

Stand down immediately, and go home, if your intent is to interfere in the Lavenrunzian Situation.

This will be your only verbal warning.

FADM Farragut, FSPSN, CO Coalition Forces Protecting Lavenrunz

<TRANSMISSION Terminates>

OOC [1]: The above tranmission also applies to any forces from Thelas in the area. I'm not real clear on what the hell, you're doing, so the warning is addressed to you if you are still there.

OOC [2]: The reason I did not challenge Kalessin, was that on IRC, Lavenrunz informed me Kalessin was actually going to somewhere else, for the purpose of invading them. He was just making it look like he was going to Lavenrunz. Therefore, you can imagine my surprise when he all of a sudden was just off shore. This comment was also made in connection to WV.

I can assure you, had I known the truth, and Kal had posted movements which would have allowed me to figure out the truth, he would have been challenged, and if required, fired upon.

OOC: The Thelasian forces are holding 200 miles out of teritorial waters.

IC:

"This is the force commander in charge of Thelasian forces in Lavenrunz theater, we are here to prevent interferance from Whispering Voices forces, it appears by the numbers of invasion transports that they are going to attempt and invasion."

Seconds later the Force Commander came back on, "Admiral, it seems that this is no longer an issue, we have been orderd to head back to Thelas. Good Luck"

All across the globe, Thelasian ships turned back twoards Thelas.

<QLE secure transmission to the WV flag>

<This is Epsilon 40 OOTG Reciprocity battle platform
<monitoring your situation via satellite
<What is your current status
<Do you require assistance?

Message (public, not encrypted) from the Aelosian Hgh Command to Commander Netari, supposing he's on charge of the troops near Lavenrunz after Theallas was captured in New York and Jersey.

"Thelas troops, you will withdraw from the Lavenrunz frontier. I'm not going to stand and see how you endanger the reputation of the elven race placing your nose in the place where it doesn't belong. Lavenrunzian problems must be solved by Lavenrunzian people, not by you or by anyone, and if a human nation wants to invade another human nation, that's their problem, not ours. The only connection to the elves with that affair was existence of the regent of Lavenrunz Lady Sirithil, and she resigned that title hours ago. If you don't withdraw, Aelosia will cut all ties and friendly relationships with you, and from now on we will be enemies. Return to your homeland, now, I'm not going to speak again".


ShadowPrince Kithail Hyral
(The message is his voice recorded, and he seems to be very pissed off).

OOC: Umm Aelosia, check my last post... the Thelasian ships are LEAVING

<Following transmission made to Sentient Peoples>

Our business is none of your concern. Interfere and be destroyed.

<Following transmission made to Santa Barbara, closed link, secured>

Our fleets appear to have been objects of interest for both a Thelasian fleet and the Federation of Sentient Peoples; amusingly simply as we move them from the Garden of Earthly Delights, which we are about to sink. Fleets are en-route to our Hawaiin holdings.

In the event either side is stupid enough to attack, we may call for assistance once we storm their capitals.


~~~~~~~

And the fleet continued heading south.

<Return transmission>

<Acknowledged
<1st Battle Squadron en route from Mars
<Just in case
<ETA 4-7 days
<Epsilon 40 out

{Transmission from the EOTED Taskforce flagship, IDSS Avenging Falcon to Whispering Voices fleet}

Please provide details as to the specific business of your fleet. You appear to be causing some anxiety up here; we request clarification of the current situation in order that we may proceed in a correct and educated manner.

{End transmission}

{Transmission from the EOTED Taskforce flagship, IDSS Avenging Falcon to FADM Farragut, Coalition Forces CO}

Commanding officer, Captain Elrahn ux-Rihad of the IDSS Avenging Falcon reporting in, and advising caution regarding Whispering Voices fleet. Suggest that EOTED forces be allowed to deal with potential hostilities due to previous experience with Whispering Voices tactics and strategy. - Reporting communication with Whispering Voices forces requesting clarification of their activities. Avenging Falcon strongly suggests that our Taskforce component be allowed to attempt peaceful resolution of the Whispering Voices situation before any decision on action is taken.

{End transmission}

Lavenrunzian fleets in the South Atlantic and in home waters continued to remain on high alert. Sonarbuoys were dropped into the water and AWACs maintained to keep an eye out for approaching forces.
In Ienotheisa and in Lavenrunz, the Imperial Rocket Corps maintained a vigil, ready to send deadly payloads out to sea or into the air.
General Schlabel, the Minister for War, met with Admiral Engelhardt, the naval Chief of Staff, and Field Marshal von Thessmar, Chief of the Imperial General Staff, discussing operational strategic changes.

OOC: Umm Aelosia, check my last post... the Thelasian ships are LEAVING

OOC: Checked, I suppose I wrote that meanwhile you were writing your post, let's say the message arrived just as the Thelasian ships started to withdraw.

IC:

"Acknowledged, thank you for your cooperation", was the only message sent to the Thelasian fleet after they retreated...

-double post-

--------------------------------------------------
The Battleship KDF Zhakarov
Lavenrunz coastal waters
--------------------------------------------------

The old Knootian Battleship heading the small Knootian taskforce approached the blockading fleet that had encompassed the entire area around the Lavenrunzian coast. Just within sight of the horizon, the ASW frigate Bloemenzee could be seen from the battleship deck.

They cheerfully hailed the ships patrolling the part of the coast they were approaching with the request to coordinate patrolling with the ships navigation officers. The idea was that the Knootians would eventually get to patrol their own section of the coastline once the other ships arrived.

((OOC: a total of 21 surface vessels, including one carrier: the Vogels which will arrive 2 IC days later. Until then, the force of 6 surface ships is led by the battleship Zhakarov. In total, 7 Knootian submarines of mixed size and type are bellying up in the area))

OOC: as more-or-less cleared with Lavenrunz on the press conference thread. These ships will arrive shortly after the press conference.))

<Transmission to EOTED>

The Fifteenth to Nineteenth Expeditions are en route to our holdings in the Pacific, having vacated the Garden of Earthly Delights which has just reached the end of its lease. Save for the threats we have received, and a resolution to destroy the next Thelasian asset that comes within easy distance, the fleet is merely passing through the Atlantic.

<Transmission to EOTED>

The Fifteenth to Nineteenth Expeditions are en route to our holdings in the Pacific, having vacated the Garden of Earthly Delights which has just reached the end of its lease. Save for the threats we have received, and a resolution to destroy the next Thelasian asset that comes within easy distance, the fleet is merely passing through the Atlantic.

Message from the Kalessin Ministry of Peace to Lavenrunz:

"In response to your earlier message, we have asked the commander of our fleet to refrain from landing his troops, and instead to form an inner cordon within the current ring protecting your fair land. He has however requested that we ask you to allow himself and a small entourage, accompanied by an honour-guard of one-thousand warriors, which we feel should be too small to cause alarm, to disembark, that he might meet both the Princess Aurora and Count Mirbach in person."

OOC: Fine. We'll do it your way, then.

IC:

Two of the Ravenspire ships had moved to approximately the latitude and longitude of the Kalessin force, though they remained in international waters. A message was dispatched:

In accordance with the wishes of the Lavenrunzian government, we must insist on the immediate withdrawal of all Kalessin military assets from Lavenrunzian waters until such time as Empress Aurora or her duly-appointed representatives should invite Kalessin presence. Refusal to comply may be interpreted as a hostile action against Lavenrunz.

(Meh. Double-post.)

The LRR fleet stops, very disturbed at this message from nowhere. Fearing an infinitely more advanced nation is about to wipe them out in a single blow, the ships turn tail and run at maximum speed back to home port. However, several ships are not so lucky. LRR modern-techers had to pretty much re-invent most LRR technology that existed before the move to space. And they did not do very well in some areas. One Hauk class corvette suffers a complete turbine failure, and drifts into Lavenrunz waters before much can be done. An EH-101 is sent to retrevie the crew, and the corvette is left adrift.

Meanwhile, another convoy sets off from Gdansk. This convoy consists mainly of several large trimaran ships painted with red crosses. They carry EH-101s also adorned with red crosses and are escorted by around 10 LRR Gepard class corvettes, craft designed mainly for defense of larger ships with their 2 RAM launchers, 3 goalkeeper CIWS mounts, and multiple chaff launchers. A pair of Vosper class trimiran corvettes escort the convoy out of the harbor, and then commence their regular patrol.

Meanwhile......

On the fringes of Lavenrunz waters, a large 'multinational fishing fleet' has gathered. There are reports of a new concentration of Herring to be found in the waters off Lavenrunz.

http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/russia/images/okean_dnsc8704487.jpg

A trawler of obscure registry fishing close to the sea borders of Lavenrunz.

The LRR fleet stops, very disturbed at this message from nowhere. Fearing an infinitely more advanced nation is about to wipe them out in a single blow, the ships turn tail and run at maximum speed back to home port. However, several ships are not so lucky. LRR modern-techers had to pretty much re-invent most LRR technology that existed before the move to space. And they did not do very well in some areas. One Hauk class corvette suffers a complete turbine failure, and drifts into Lavenrunz waters before much can be done. An EH-101 is sent to retrevie the crew, and the corvette is left adrift.

Meanwhile, another convoy sets off from Gdansk. This convoy consists mainly of several large trimaran ships painted with red crosses. They carry EH-101s also adorned with red crosses and are escorted by around 10 LRR Gepard class corvettes, craft designed mainly for defense of larger ships with their 2 RAM launchers, 3 goalkeeper CIWS mounts, and multiple chaff launchers. A pair of Vosper class trimiran corvettes escort the convoy out of the harbor, and then commence their regular patrol.

Meanwhile......

On the fringes of Lavenrunz waters, a large 'multinational fishing fleet' has gathered. There are reports of a new concentration of Herring to be found in the waters off Lavenrunz.

http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/russia/images/okean_dnsc8704487.jpg

A trawler of obscure registry fishing close to the sea borders of Lavenrunz.

The LRR fleet stops, very disturbed at this message from nowhere. Fearing an infinitely more advanced nation is about to wipe them out in a single blow, the ships turn tail and run at maximum speed back to home port. However, several ships are not so lucky. LRR modern-techers had to pretty much re-invent most LRR technology that existed before the move to space. And they did not do very well in some areas. One Hauk class corvette suffers a complete turbine failure, and drifts into Lavenrunz waters before much can be done. An EH-101 is sent to retrevie the crew, and the corvette is left adrift.

Meanwhile, another convoy sets off from Gdansk. This convoy consists mainly of several large trimaran ships painted with red crosses. They carry EH-101s also adorned with red crosses and are escorted by around 10 LRR Gepard class corvettes, craft designed mainly for defense of larger ships with their 2 RAM launchers, 3 goalkeeper CIWS mounts, and multiple chaff launchers. A pair of Vosper class trimiran corvettes escort the convoy out of the harbor, and then commence their regular patrol.

Meanwhile......

On the fringes of Lavenrunz waters, a large 'multinational fishing fleet' has gathered. There are reports of a new concentration of Herring to be found in the waters off Lavenrunz.

http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/russia/images/okean_dnsc8704487.jpg

A trawler of obscure registry fishing close to the sea borders of Lavenrunz.

As the Lunatic Retard Robots vessel drifts crewless into Lavenrunzian waters, a single squadron of Longswords paces it, moving slowly through the air. And then, after about ten minutes, four Buffalo class dropships swoop out of the sky.

Tractors latch on, and the ship slowly, magestically rises out of the water.

Free salvage. Hydrogen to run the fighters fusion plants wasn't quite free after all.

And so, the ship would be transported back to the Federation, where it would be disassembled, studied, and then eventually scrapped.

The assigned Iesus fleet flew the new colours proudly...
The colours of Lavenrunz along side the Iesus cross.
Sure alot of the crews were abit confused about what was exactly happening in Lavenrunz but they all KNEW they had to protect their fellow Christians from hordes of invaders.
With glad heart the Iesus destroyers,cruisers and the 3 escort carriers joined the interception force, all crews prepared to lay down their bodies if need be for the good of world Christianty.

Heil Lavenrunz, Christ be with you always. Christ be with a people freed.
Iesus stands ready to bleed for you!
Admiral Mary Albert commanding-7th Fleet.

The private rail station for the Autumn Palace had a row of Imperial Halberdier Guards standing in a row, their breastplates gleaming, their boots like mirrors, each scarlet plume jaunty. Their Colonel-in-Chief was approaching, and the Acting Colonel had gone out of his way to make sure everything was perfect. The Empress and her party had been waiting no more than a few minutes when the train pulled into the station.
Carl and Amadeus disembarked first, and Raven followed them from the train. The foxgirl looked tired following the long journey, but she still smiled pleasantly at the halberdiers. She brightened considerably after setting foot on the ground once again.
"Present--Arms!" the Colonel barked. The honour guard brought their rifles up and their feet came down with a collective thump.
Aurora stepped forward.
Raven grinned excitedly when she saw that Aurora had come. The expression transformed her entire bearing. Forgetting all of the rules of decorum that had been drilled into her by Baron Stahlfaust, she darted forward from the group to throw her arms around her adoptive sister in a hug. "Aurora!" she cried joyfully.
Aurora couldn't repress her response; she was glad to see someone vaguely close to her own age, someone who had no motivation to manipulate her at all...she hugged Raven fiercely and fought the tears that stung her eyes. "I'm so glad you're safe." she whispered.
The two older men quietly spoke to one another and then walked discreetly behind the girls, letting them be.
"I was worried about you," Raven murmured, holding her tight. "When you weren't brought with us after the ball... but I saw your speech! You sounded so strong, big sister. Where did you go?"
"Lady Nathicana and I snuck out of the palace and used my mothplane..." Aurora suddenly remembers it, and grimaces. "Anyway, I got knocked out when a buffet of wind made us crash near the airport, that's why it took a while. She rescued me, but took me off into space. Then, when I was recovered, she lent me a shuttle that ran on autopilot."
Raven's golden eyes open wide as saucers. "You went into space? That's so cool!" Then, the rest of Aurora's words register, and she begins speaking more rapidly. "But wait, you crashed? You didn't get hurt, did you? How did you manage to fly in that weather? You must be a really good pilot. I saw one of those at the aeronautical museum, and they're really light. Weren't you scared?"
"Well....um.....I...." says Aurora, trying to respond to Raven's rapid fire questioning. "Yeah, I was, but more scared of being captured...come on, let's go to the palace." she says.
Raven nods, finally -- reluctantly -- releasing Aurora. "I'm glad you're safe, too," she says.
"And you were brave too, going to send off that message." says Aurora, smiling. She gives her a teasing grin. "I didn't think you could talk that slow."
Raven blushes, but smiles. "Well, I had good teachers. You did see that? I'm glad you were able to speak. I was afraid they were going to keep fighting each other."
"Well, we can thank Thelas in our prayers that we didn't have to," Aurora says as they go out and towards the car. "Do you want to walk? It's not that cold." Aurora points out.
Raven nods. "I don't mind, as long as you don't. It was a long trip from Astra." She falls silent, but not for long. "What were they thinking, anyway? I saw the Count's speech after their threat... do you think they're our enemies?"
"We have enemies." there are distant faint sounds of the city, but mostly the palace is insulated by hedges and walls from the ebb and flow of traffic noise. The main sound they hear is that of their booted feet crunching in the snow.
"But we must figure out who was just taken in, who really just wanted us to have autonomy again, and who was really trying to grab power." Aurora says. "There are just too many--I mean, should I execute the Imperial Marine Corps?"
Raven nods, clearly unhappy at the thought. "I know. But if you hadn't come back when you did, that might have taken the country away from you completely...." She trails off, considering the question. "No. Most of them were just doing what they thought was right, I think. We need to change their minds, but I think they'll follow your orders, at least."
"I think so." Aurora says, looking pensive. She knocks some snow off a hedge animal. "I hope so."
Then she wickedly grins and begins making a ball of some snow in her mitten.
"Well, at least you know who you can trust fully," Raven points out, seemingly unaware of Aurora's mischievous intent.
The ball of snow flies through the air towards Raven's head.
Raven catches the motion in her peripheral vision and turns, just in time to catch the snowball full in the forehead. She squawks an incoherent protest, wiping snow away fro her eyes with the back of one hand.
Aurora laughs and dashes behind a hedge, stooping for more snow.
Raven giggles and bends to scoop up a handful of her own. "I'll get you for that," she promises.
From a window in the palace, Archduke Carl watched and a smile came to him. He turned to the woman beside him. "Ambassador, I am very glad to be proven wrong about some things. Thank God for it."
Setsuna smiled, bowing her head. "Some things can change for the better, Your Grace." Looking out at the two young royals playing in the snow, she added, "She has had to grow up too soon. But she will make an excellent ruler, if I'm any judge."

rectonned

Retconned, but leaving the post to teach KNoot to do his homework before getting all sarcastic. :twisted:

The assigned Iesus fleet flew the new colours proudly...
The colours of Lavenrunz along side the Iesus cross.
Sure alot of the crews were abit confused about what was exactly happening in Lavenrunz but they all KNEW they had to protect their fellow Christians from hordes of invaders.
With glad heart the Iesus destroyers,cruisers and the 3 escort carriers joined the interception force, all crews prepared to lay down their bodies if need be for the good of world Christianty.

Heil Lavenrunz, Christ be with you always. Christ be with a people freed.
Iesus stands ready to bleed for you!
Admiral Mary Albert commanding-7th Fleet.

OOC: did matty watch yesterdays news? There is no invasion. Anyway...


Transmission to:
Reich 7th fleet admiralty.
From: KDF Vogels, currently attached to SATO RdF Tareldanore

Reich interference in Lavenrunz will not be tolerated. The 7th fleet will alter it's course away from Lavenrunz. Interfering in Lavenrunz will be considereed an act of war. We are authorised to use to all means to protect Lavenrunz.[/code:1:0191aeee8e]

The 21 ships that were still heading towards Lavenrunz to reinforce the blockade altered their course slightly so that they would be put between the Reich taskforce and Lavenrunz before their arrival.

OOC: Talking about yesterdays news. I believe Iesus troops are invited by Aurora to act as blockade which is more one can say about Knootoss. I Know what MY answer to this would be. ;-)

IC:
Vegana Peoples Channel.
We have just recieved news about Knootoss/SATO aggression towards the by Lavenrunz sanctioned Iesus fleet heading towards Lavenrunz by Empress Aurora's request. Once again the aggressors shows their ugly snout, trying to stop the free people of Lavenrunz from getting true freedom from the grasp of SATO. But the world is watching, the world hears your threats Knootoss and be sure that Empress Aurora will recieve word of them too.

<Transmission to EOTED>

The Fifteenth to Nineteenth Expeditions are en route to our holdings in the Pacific, having vacated the Garden of Earthly Delights which has just reached the end of its lease. Save for the threats we have received, and a resolution to destroy the next Thelasian asset that comes within easy distance, the fleet is merely passing through the Atlantic.

"Hmmm." Elrahn ux-Rihad viewed the message with nothing short of full-blown skepticism. "Lieutenant," he adressed his comop, "route the following request to the IDF N CLO, and then route a suitably altered request to IDFI and IDF CISD.

IDSS Avenging Falcon CO requesting support of IDS Vanguard and Vanguard Battlegroup plus available satelite assets to track/shadow the position of the Whispering Voices fleet making an Atlantic transition from Europe. Vanguard Battlegroup should preferably shadow the Whispering Voices fleet at long-range. Preparation for OTH assault advised. Whispering Voices force considered potentially hostile."

The comop nodded... and transmitted the order request.

Once that was done, and confirmation of a change in orders for the Vanguard Battlegroup (already stationed in the Atlantic on a long-term readiness mission), Elrahn steepled his hands, and tapped closed a contact on his armrest.

Whispering Voices fleet, your explanation is accepted. In order to prevent misunderstanding, I have been requested to inform you that your sensors may detect one of our Battlegroups moving through the Atlantic. Do not be alarmed. The Vanguard Battlegroup is en route to a position closer to Lavenrunz to provide support to the naval blockade, should such support be required. Over.

-----------------------------------------------------------
The Knootian part of the naval blockade
Near some small and unimportant part of Lavenrunz
-----------------------------------------------------------

"Well, Sir. The Reich fleet approaching. 7th Iesus.", said the young and naive petty officer of the Knootian navy vessel KDF Sarcasm off the Lavenrunzian coast. He put away his B.I.N.O.C.U.L.A.R. all-purpose naval/aerial detection system.

The captain of the "OMG STEALTH" class rubber boat waved his hands in a dismissive gesture. "Oh, the Reich fleet has been invited by Lavenrunz. It's an extremely smart move, or so I've heard from some people who know all about this.” He shifted in his uncomfortable wooden seat and readjusted his sparkling white uniform: “You see this very young Empress Aurora is extremely sensitive to politics. Well, their own politics at least."

The young, unl33t and obviously mistaken petty officer asked:
"But won't the people of Lavenrunz see Iesus as a friend and guardian then? Isn't that playing right into the card of the Christian Nationalists Sir?"

"No... of course not. If we just don't shoot at the Reich we won't look bad while not having to do anything!", the captain exclaimed. "And who cares that it allows the Reich to look good too. We can be friends with the Reich, they are here under the flag of neutrality." He sighed at the stupidity of his subordinate: "All we need to do is ignore their open support for Count Mirbach and their continuing threats to destroy us and smile politely. I mean... I'm sure we have infidel Elf Whores in our country somewhere."

"But what if they try something, Sir?", the petty officer of the Sarcasm asked.

The captain replied with a calm voice, confident of the wisdom of his superiors: "They better behave themselves. After all, the Lady Sirithil assured us that she can detect ANYTHING coming in with her satellites. Trust me, we're safe. We don’t need to be here at all with Siri looking after us. Just like in the Shadow War."

The weapons officer jumped in: "In fact, let's just all go to sleep. Is that okay Sir? We could sure use some rest after all that rowing."

"Splendid idea", replied the captain and the men went off to bed.

At almost every station occupied by blockading ships, there seems to always be the shillouette of a shady fishing trawler on the horizon, surrounded by a flock of seagulls.

Unbeknownst to the crews of the ships, they are actually surveliiance ships operated by the LRR navy. They roam the world's oceans, and have pretty much total coverage.

Aboard the S.S. Shady Character, a harmless-looking fishing boat......

"We're picking up a new set of sonar signatures coming in. Big ships, stuff we should probably stay away from."
"Definately. There's a large ship, probably a frigate or destroyer, by the looks of it landward. Knootoosian by the looks of it."
"Better not draw suspicion. Retract the RF scanner antennas. Civillian systems only."

The crew of the trawler go about performing their regular duties, dressed in their orange and yellow waterproof gear and nor' easters. The red cross fleet had been halted some distance out to sea, as the conditions were not yet appropriate to deploy the medical troops.

OCC: Sentient peoples, the little Hauk corvette is not exactly something you would take time to study. Those things date from the late 60's, probably earlier. The newest one LRR has was made in 1986, and even with extensive refits they are somewhat low tech vessels. Mabye it would be good for college-grade nautical engineering students to study, the hydrogen fuel cell might be of interest, but besides that I doubt the surplus Bofors gun and Mk. 48 torpedos would be all that overwhelming.

The team sat silently on the plane, dressed for casual business. Two men and a woman. All medium build, not startingly attractive or ugly. No remarkable features at all, in fact.

At last the plane touched down in Lavenrunz. After four days of traveling, they had finally arrive. Riorghbhardain. Russian Forces. The Dominion. Menelmacar. Lost Americans. Wazzu. Knootoss. Lavenrunz, though not all of them traveled in that order. Eighteen seperate flights, on nearly as many airlines. And under nearly as many names and citizenships.

They didn't even remember their real names anymore. They were simply One, Two, and Three, and adapted to whatever role they were playing at the time. They were the best, and knew it, invisible without special equipment or skills.

Actors of the highest caliber. Living a lie. The only records of their existence were those needed to travel on their current mission, and in a single computer, deep inside the Intelligence Division, with no physical connection to the outside.

It was from there they were selected and assigned. They were enhanced, but not as obviously so as many of their fellow Federation citizens. They were ghosts.

Ghosts who could do anything, become anyone.

They moved off the plane, seperated randomly by people inbetween them. Moving through Customs in the Hofburg International Airport, newly reopened, apparently. There was nothing identifying on them. Nothing contraband or monitored.

They were in clean. They broke apart on leaving the airport, plan firmly in place. They would meet again. When it was needed.

Handwritten message, delivered by personal courriers, for the Empress Aurora alone - eyes only


To the gracious and just Her Imperial Majesty, Aurora von Sachshausen, Empress of Lavenrunz, Queen of Zimia and Neo-Gothicadia, Grand Duchess of Mogontia and Burslau-Dornburg, Protector of the Poor, Defender of the Faith, do I, Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion, send greeting.

First, if I might congratulate you in your handling of this decidedly difficult situation. You have shown strength and courage in times of chaos and fear, and have deftly manuevered both your allies and your traditional enemies in a way most impressive. This has not escaped our attentions.

We have also noticed a trend of late among your friends and neighbors. All seem to think they should have a hand in the governing of your great nation - a travesty and an insult, in our eyes. They seem unable to see beyond what many think to be your tender years, and dismiss out of hand that those years have been spent being schooled and raised to rule. They do not understand, nor appreciate the deep-running traditions, nor the even deeper politics of your situation. It would seem many see you as a means to their own ends, rather than a valued ally, as you ought to be seen.

I am pleased that both our brief dealings with your nation in the past, with your most esteemed mother and brother, possono si riposano nella pace, and more recently with yourself. I regret that our meeting had to take place under such unfortunate circumstances. Still, as I have said before, I was most impressed with both how you held yourself, and with your sense of duty and loyalty to your country. In speaking with others since then, and noting the aforementioned happenings, we thought a letter would be appropriate.

You may or may not be aware of an alliance that myself and Emperor Treznor formed some time ago. The Non-Democratic Alliance (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=60132&highlight=) has proved to be a very stable, and very profitable gathering of several rulers who all value independance, and the sovereign right of nations to decide for themselves internal policies without the meddling of others. The tennants set forth in our charter are this, and peaceful, diplomatic means of dealing with situations, just as you have illustrated you are capable of with this recent uprising.

In this alliance, we are pleased to have ties with many different groups, among which is the Triumvirate of Yut - also where my ties with your onetime regent, Sirithil nos Feanor, originate. Our members often have alliances elsewhere, such as even the Reich, though as you can see through studying the history here, we have all been able to come together for the common good and both benefit and provide support to one another without the need to become embroiled in the often messy politics that go with those other alliances. We have never found our NDA ties to interfere nor been at odds with our other alliances on account of it. I find it provides a strong, neutral haven where those of many different backgrounds and beliefs have been able to work together to form a solid, yet unobtrusive alliance that has been a benefit to all.

We would like to extend to you an invitation to join us as a member in full standing. A copy of our manifesto is included for your perusal, as are references for various situations that we have found ourselves in, and proved our worth. This is an alliance of equals, not of subjugation. One of freedom and support. And we offer this freely, seeing you as one worthy to stand in our ranks as you lead your nation with the strength and faith you were raised to. I cannot help but think that given your current situation, that we offer a pleasant and clean solution to several issues, as previously discussed.

Should you find that this does not fit your vision of the future for you and Lavenrunz, please know that there will be no hard feelings on our part. We, unlike some, realize that not all solutions work for all nations. I trust that our relations in the future, whatever they may be, will remain as cordial as always, regardless of your decision in this. There is no need for haste in this - please consider it an open offer.

May you rule in peace and prosperity, and may God watch over and protect you.

--Nathicana

At almost every station occupied by blockading ships, there seems to always be the shillouette of a shady fishing trawler on the horizon, surrounded by a flock of seagulls.

Unbeknownst to the crews of the ships, they are actually surveliiance ships operated by the LRR navy. They roam the world's oceans, and have pretty much total coverage.

Aboard the S.S. Shady Character, a harmless-looking fishing boat......

"We're picking up a new set of sonar signatures coming in. Big ships, stuff we should probably stay away from."
"Definately. There's a large ship, probably a frigate or destroyer, by the looks of it landward. Knootoosian by the looks of it."
"Better not draw suspicion. Retract the RF scanner antennas. Civillian systems only."

The crew of the trawler go about performing their regular duties, dressed in their orange and yellow waterproof gear and nor' easters. The red cross fleet had been halted some distance out to sea, as the conditions were not yet appropriate to deploy the medical troops.

OCC: Sentient peoples, the little Hauk corvette is not exactly something you would take time to study. Those things date from the late 60's, probably earlier. The newest one LRR has was made in 1986, and even with extensive refits they are somewhat low tech vessels. Mabye it would be good for college-grade nautical engineering students to study, the hydrogen fuel cell might be of interest, but besides that I doubt the surplus Bofors gun and Mk. 48 torpedos would be all that overwhelming.

[OOC: Sorry, but...]

IC:

On the bridge of the Avenging Falcon, the P-Satop stirred, peering at his console. Tapping a contact closed, he frowned, and tap-tapped his fingers on the keyconsole for a moment.

"Sir, I don't know how important this is, but one of those fishing trawlers did something rather strange when the Knootian ships moved into the area. They were putting out RF radiation - the data on the frequency and such is stored, of course - but when the Knootian warships moved into the area, the RF radiation vanished."

"Hmmm. Satop, open the primary scanning suite; deactivate the secondaries. Order the IDSS Fire of Sol and the Relentless to switch into triangulum-scan positions above one of the trawlers in relation to ourselves. Once she's in position, begin full-spectrum scans."

"Aye aye, sir," the P-Satop acknowledged.

Captain Elrahni Rihad scowled. "Helm, move us into position. - Comms, update the FADM on what we're doing and why."

Rihad's XO, a short, somewhat stocky Human, grinned slightly. "I don't like this one bit, Captain," she whispered softly, "those trawlers... they smell fishy to me."

Rihad chuckled quietly...

A telephone conversation between the Knootian and Lavenrunzian foreign Ministers

In the Lavenrunzian ministry of foreign affairs the telephone rings: *ring ring* *ring ring*
"Guten Morgen, Auslandesministrie." says a perky voice.
A deep voice replies: "Yes, good morning to you too. Van Mierlo, foreign minister of Knootoss here. Can I speak to the minister please?"
"Just a moment, please, Your Excellency." she says pleasantly. After a moment she returns and says, "Please hold, I am transferring you."

Van Mierlo holds, and ponders if there will be some annoying waiting music, but soon the cultured accents of Aurora von Konigsmark are heard. "Good morning, my dear Van Mierlo. How are thinks in Knootoss?"
The Ministers voice is as neutral as possible, yet cheerfully friendly: "Ah, a good morning to you too. Things are going just fine here. Not much of special interest is happening. Actually I wanted to ask you about some ongoing developments. Do you have time right now?"
"I have a few minutes at the moment..." says von Konigsmark.

"Ah, thank you", he replies. "I heard about the recent visit of a Vegana diplomatic party to your nation..." his voice trails. "Well, actually, that party just arrived." replies von Konigsmark.
"Ah, ok", he replies with an interested tone. "I was a bit curious about it. After all it isn't so common an event. We are trying to prepare our position on it here, but we'd like to know what Her Imperial Majesty intends to accomplish with this meeting... after all, as allies we should be working together on such issues. So I'd like to match statements."
"Well, the Empire has always been open to the possibilities of negotiated peace with nations of the Reich." says von Konigsmark. "Naturally, we would make no agreements which would be to the detriment of current alliances."

"hm hm", says the minister. "I understand. But what kind of agreements did you have in mind? You know, the small list of possibilities." He smiles endearingly out of habit, but through the phone this is surprisingly hard to see.
"Oh, well that will greatly depend upon what is said." the Foreign Minister replies. "But as I also said, we intend to honour existing agreements, particularly within the SATO alliance."

She sticks to that statement, thinks van Mierlo, "This is most comforting, surely, but there are several of my colleagues...", he chuckles lightly, "who think that Lavenrunz might settle for peace - or even an alliance - with the Reich. Considering their, uhm, record, this would be a unique step...”
"Since the Reich is hostile to SATO, an alliance is not likely to happen without that changing. But peace is another matter, wouldn't you say?"
The Knootian thinks for a moment: "Well, yes. But would this be a matter just for your nation alone? I mean... I believe some allies will be worried about this. Especially considering their stances on metahumans." He stutters lightly: "I mean, you know that we have always been in favour of appeasement with the Reich. But formal treaties? hmm... I don't know."
"You don't favour an end to hostilities, the waste of resources and attention it constantly demands of us?" asked von Konigsmark in polite surprise.

"Well... I sure do.", replies the Knootian minister of foreign affairs a bit surprised. "The only thing is that I believe we should do it together. You know, as SATO as a whole. I am afraid that this might be a fascist tactic to divide us…” he is interrupted.
"SATO as a whole does not appear able to find it's ass in broad daylight with a roadmap." says von Konigsmark politely. "That, I am authorized to point out, is a quote from Her Majesty."
The Knootian continues, confidingly: "...therefore I'd like to suggest that the Empress negotiate for SATO as a whole. If anyone has the moral authority to speak for SATO it has always been the Empire. We would support such a thing. I am convinced that the rest will follow the most gracious example of Her Majesty."
"That is an interesting idea, and when Her Majesty meets with other SATO leaders during the week I am sure that she will bring the matter up." replies von Konigsmark.

"I will relay Ambassador De Vries, who can put it on the agenda." His tone becomes more informal now: "Now... we've known each other for some time. What is your personal opinion of all this? Uhm... if I may inquire."
She laughs. "Everyone is so worked up--but imagine the relief of Lavenrunzians, who have avoided a war that would have torn our country apart. We are a bit anxious about the election, of course. In fact, the need to campaign and run a ministry is rather draining, but I am optimistic."
Van Mierlo smiles, and is a bit relieved: "Well... my feelings are similar. I mean - I'm very happy that there are no people shooting right now. The election may be dangerous though. I know that the SLP will want to help several of your parties out. The same will probably go for KGP and RCPK."
"Well, that would be appreciated." von Konigsmark pauses a moment and says, "I hope you know though--Lavenrunz is balanced between an elected government and the Imperial part of the executive power."
"Yes, I know..." sighs the Knootian, "but it would be favourable to stability if the Empress and the Volksraad have some sort of understanding. This wasn't the case with the Knootian royal family and it led to... problems", he says, referring to a particularly bloody part of Knootian democratisation.
"Well, it isn't really the same, you know." replies von Konigsmark. "As you saw with Mirbach, the Empress is always obeyed."

Van Mierlo replies respectfully: "I am merely making efforts to make sure it stays this way. Thank you for your precious time."
"It is always a pleasure, my dear van Mierlo."
"It is indeed. Goodbye." Van Mierlo puts down the horn.

The Trawlers coninue to bilthely monitor the radio communications and ship movements in the conflict. They took specific interest into all the spacecraft in earth orbit, and watched them very carefully, lest one decide that it did not like being watched. However, the surveillance trawlers have one of the best ECMs around. But still, LRR modern tech has had run-ins with Ma-tek before, and it cost the lives of 12 harrier pilots. LRR policy dictates that in the event of getting a more advanced modern-tech nation angry, the military is not required to fight, as it mens almost certain death.

Meanwhile, further off the coast of Lavenrunz, the fleet of medical ships sails inland at full speed. Hopefully, they would not be ripped to pieces like in Royal Palms. There were still LRR doctors with missing legs from that conflict. The first day, there was a rocket attack on the primary field hospital, not to mention all the ambulences destroyed and medics killed in the field.

As such, point defense systems were on full power. In modern war, it seems, there is no room for neutrality. If you help the enemy you are the enemy.

The captain of the LRRNS Mother Teresa ponders these thoughts as his hospital trimiran speeds towards the blockade zone. The 10 escort corvettes ride high out of the water with their air-cavity hulls, but still are only slightly faster than the hospital ships.

"Attention, blockading vessels and other combatants, this is Captain Leopold Van Halen of the 2nd LRR medical fleet. We are going to take up position off the Lavenrunz coast, and we would very much like it if you did not destroy us, as we will be providing medical care to all wounded citizens of Lavenrunz, and wounded soldiers of all sides during the conflict."

OCC: Ma-tek, although the trawlers are built for spying on people, they are very usefull as medical picket ships. If there is any naval combat, I doubt the other side will be picking up survivors. These trawlers have a very good humanitarian record.

And have you ever seen those radio frequency scanners that monitor radio transmissions? The RF scanner is basically a larger and more sensitive one of those. It isn't a radar.

OCC: Avenging falcon? More like the falcon, oppressor of all things small and innocent.

And plus, those trawlers, if you do anything like genocide or use nukes, they'll have every liberal nation on earth up in army against you, as well as a lot of others.

OCC: Avenging falcon? More like the falcon, oppressor of all things small and innocent.

And plus, those trawlers, if you do anything like genocide or use nukes, they'll have every liberal nation on earth up in army against you, as well as a lot of others.

~ Transmission to Lunatic Robots Expedition ~
This is Admiral Carlotta der Waal, of the Imperial Home Waters Fleet. Your presence has not been requested, and you are in danger of violating Lavenrunzian sovereignty. You must withdraw immediately. If you wish to offer assistance please do so through government channels.
~ End Transmission ~

The Admiral was rather irritated; she had been informed that there were several of the neutral parties in the way of the LRR force, but now they had apparently slipped through. The squadron led by the Erlkonig, a Lost Vegas class carrier, began turning to move on the LRR force. One of the frigates had apparently suffered some technical problems and had to go to Mirenburg for repairs, but the other ten ships in the squadron were by now eager for action with all the false starts so far.

Handwritten message, delivered by personal courriers, for the Empress Aurora alone - eyes only


To the gracious and just Her Imperial Majesty, Aurora von Sachshausen, Empress of Lavenrunz, Queen of Zimia and Neo-Gothicadia, Grand Duchess of Mogontia and Burslau-Dornburg, Protector of the Poor, Defender of the Faith, do I, Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion, send greeting.

First, if I might congratulate you in your handling of this decidedly difficult situation. You have shown strength and courage in times of chaos and fear, and have deftly manuevered both your allies and your traditional enemies in a way most impressive. This has not escaped our attentions.

We have also noticed a trend of late among your friends and neighbors. All seem to think they should have a hand in the governing of your great nation - a travesty and an insult, in our eyes. They seem unable to see beyond what many think to be your tender years, and dismiss out of hand that those years have been spent being schooled and raised to rule. They do not understand, nor appreciate the deep-running traditions, nor the even deeper politics of your situation. It would seem many see you as a means to their own ends, rather than a valued ally, as you ought to be seen.

I am pleased that both our brief dealings with your nation in the past, with your most esteemed mother and brother, possono si riposano nella pace, and more recently with yourself. I regret that our meeting had to take place under such unfortunate circumstances. Still, as I have said before, I was most impressed with both how you held yourself, and with your sense of duty and loyalty to your country. In speaking with others since then, and noting the aforementioned happenings, we thought a letter would be appropriate.

You may or may not be aware of an alliance that myself and Emperor Treznor formed some time ago. The Non-Democratic Alliance (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=60132&highlight=) has proved to be a very stable, and very profitable gathering of several rulers who all value independance, and the sovereign right of nations to decide for themselves internal policies without the meddling of others. The tennants set forth in our charter are this, and peaceful, diplomatic means of dealing with situations, just as you have illustrated you are capable of with this recent uprising.

In this alliance, we are pleased to have ties with many different groups, among which is the Triumvirate of Yut - also where my ties with your onetime regent, Sirithil nos Feanor, originate. Our members often have alliances elsewhere, such as even the Reich, though as you can see through studying the history here, we have all been able to come together for the common good and both benefit and provide support to one another without the need to become embroiled in the often messy politics that go with those other alliances. We have never found our NDA ties to interfere nor been at odds with our other alliances on account of it. I find it provides a strong, neutral haven where those of many different backgrounds and beliefs have been able to work together to form a solid, yet unobtrusive alliance that has been a benefit to all.

We would like to extend to you an invitation to join us as a member in full standing. A copy of our manifesto is included for your perusal, as are references for various situations that we have found ourselves in, and proved our worth. This is an alliance of equals, not of subjugation. One of freedom and support. And we offer this freely, seeing you as one worthy to stand in our ranks as you lead your nation with the strength and faith you were raised to. I cannot help but think that given your current situation, that we offer a pleasant and clean solution to several issues, as previously discussed.

Should you find that this does not fit your vision of the future for you and Lavenrunz, please know that there will be no hard feelings on our part. We, unlike some, realize that not all solutions work for all nations. I trust that our relations in the future, whatever they may be, will remain as cordial as always, regardless of your decision in this. There is no need for haste in this - please consider it an open offer.

May you rule in peace and prosperity, and may God watch over and protect you.

--Nathicana

To Her Excellency the Dread Lady Nathicana

While I would be happy to pursue particular relations with your nation or that of the Empire of Treznor individually, I cannot join this alliance. Lavenrunz has a constitution, and while we are not exactly a democracy, Lavenrunz nevertheless has a process whereby the subjects may take part in government. The Volksraad is our national legislative assembly, and from it is elected the government which carries out a policey on the part of the majority of the electorate. My role in the government is to be commander-in-chief and the guiding hand of the nation overall. There are some things, such as defense,inheritance, religion, and charity which are immutable in Lavenrunz, and those fall under my rule directly. The Volksraad's votes can be vetoed by me within a three day period as well, and I am the final court of appeal.
But perhaps I misunderstood the terms of this alliance. If I did, please let me know. Otherwise, I would like to talk with you soon about a more direct relationship with you and your country.
Thank you for all your kind advice and friendship.
Affectionately
Aurora von Sachshausen, Empress of Lavenrunz

Zwoll Naval Air Station

Goliath slowly pulls in near the station's main runway, coming to a halt just as Leopard begins her approach. Even with both vessels obviously low on fuel they're an impressive sight in the sky over Zwoll, Leopard nearly five hundred feet long, Goliath over thirteen hundred. Up close the various gun turrets and launch tubes on each vessel are clearly visible, four large twin turrets being major features of Goliath's flanks, two on a side.

'This is Air Destroyer Goliath, requesting military escort for a Federal diplomat to Hofburg, over.'

The Tank

Haruka smiled, 'Ok, I've got us an uplink to Leopard, guess first order of business is to ask them to get us a status update on that missile battery pointed at us?'

The Commander nodded, 'Damn right it is.'

Meanwhile, with Mantua in the dock the teams got ready to unload her cargo.

Air Destroyer Leopard

Feb looks a little shocked as the IR transmission comes in from the tank, 'Can we get a transmission out to the Lavenrunzian ground forces commader in this area? Our facility down by the docks seems to think there's a Landsknecht missile battery pointed at them.'

One of the radio ops looks up, 'Got you a channel, sir.'

Feb blinks as her voice switches over to the radio, 'This is Federal Air Destroyer Leopard to local ground forces command, I have a report from Federal personnel in this area that a surface to surface missile battery was targeted on their position around thirty hours ago, request confirmation and update on this situation, over.'

As Goliath rolled in, a squadron of Feuerkatz fighter-bombers began streaking off a nearby runway, heading out to sea.
"Roger, Goliath, will dispatch VTOL 4-03 for you, your passenger is confirmed." a tower operator replied.
The VTOL was sent down the runway towards where Goliath was refuelling, lines of hose extending up to it.

Elsewhere, Leopard received a transmission.
"Leopard, this is General Dietrich. Just confirming now--that the battery is still in place but is entirely for shore defense. The crisis is over. Regional command will send an officer over to apologize for the tension and inconvenience."

Message from the Kalessin Ministry of Peace to Lavenrunz:

"In response to your earlier message, we have asked the commander of our fleet to refrain from landing his troops, and instead to form an inner cordon within the current ring protecting your fair land. He has however requested that we ask you to allow himself and a small entourage, accompanied by an honour-guard of one-thousand warriors, which we feel should be too small to cause alarm, to disembark, that he might meet both the Princess Aurora and Count Mirbach in person."

~ Transmission to Kalessin~

You should be informed of the following. First of all, Count Mirbach is at the moment a private person, and meetings with him are restricted at the moment as he is the subject of an inquiry. However, they are certainly possible.
Secondly, Her Majesty Empress Aurora will grant an audience to the commander, and has designated this to take place at Wiedlingburg, to which he will be escorted. A landing for this purpose will be permitted.

~ End Transmission ~

Was it a coincidence? Aurora had never had a weird dream about Sirithil before, but now strange things were happening. She knew from her experiences in Freebodnik V that there was more than met the eye to reality. And it had been such a vivid and memorable dream...
And now these odd folk came.
Central coastal Lavenrunz had very little snow, and it was a bleak landscape out there. Ages ago, Wiedlingburg, a walled fortified town, had guarded the approach inland via a hill overlooking a river mouth. Now this was done by a naval air station, a submarine base and other military units, but it still commanded a splendid view and was the area headquarters.
Outside, she could see a column of Imperial Hussars--her late brother's regiment--and 16th Fusiliers forming up. They were in full dress, and even in winter coats made a bright picture as they marched down past the fishing towns towards the designated landing area.

High over head, the Sentient Peoples Aerospace Fighter Wings wheeled and darted about.

And then, a number of them broke off, soaring in low over the Lunatic Retard Robots surface vessels, ionized air crackling in their wake.

Directly above each vessel, they pulled up. Straight up, and at about 10,000 meters above the surface, they inverted, pointed straight down.

And there they hung, suspended by their drive fields, blazing blue in the sky.

The Lunatic Retard Robots vessels only had a moment before they would be give the order to fire, assuming that they did not follow the advice of the Lavenrunzian Admiral.

Authorization for kinetic strikes had been given. No need to waste time disabling with plasma cannons. A single missile should be enough to destroy them.

[OOC: LRR, I suggest you're more clear about what you mean by certain things in future. The term 'RF scanner' is highly ambiguous; it could mean a great deal of different things. For what you're describing, I assume you mean a passive UHF scanner. However - the point has to be made that if the system wasn't detectable, as you infer in your OOC post, then it would not be turned off when a group of ships approached. As such, I'm assuming that its use is detectable, and proceeding with that in mind.]

This is IDSS Avenging Falcon reporting in to group command. Sir, those 'fishing trawlers' are utilizing military-grade ECM devices. Suggest that deployed fighter wing be advised appropriately. Avenging Falcon out.

The trawlers quickly detect the groups of ships headed to their area, and run for their lives. If the combatants wanted to rape, pillage, and otherwise mess up the land, they could now do so without interference from tree-hugging liberals.

Elsewhere.....

The captain has finally snapped.

"OH!!!!!! Turn back! You didn't contact us through government channels, buisiness hours are nine to five on weekdays and ten to three on weekends." He mocks the Lavenrunz message. "OH YEAH???? WELL, YOU MIGHT WANT TO KILL AND MAME, BUT WE WON'T LET YOU!!!!!! DON'T YOU SEE THESE *Expletive* RED CROSSES?????? DON'T YOU NOT WANT YOUR STUPID *Expletive* POPULATION TO LIVE WHILE YOU *Expletive* POLITICIANS FLOUNT YOUR *Expletive Expletive Expletive*??????"

The bridge crew looks at him in amazement. They hope the idiotic militarists will perhaps take their message to mean something. If not, at least they will die martyrs. And that was not a very intriguing proposition.

OCC: You do realize you are about to destroy 10 hospital ships of the famous 1st LRR medical brigade, champions and saviors of Royal Palms, those who will help when no others care, the unbiased and winner of The Order of Farbanti among numerous other awards for humanitarianism.
I really want to swear my lungs out at you guys, but I can't.

OCC: You do realize you are about to destroy 10 hospital ships of the famous 1st LRR medical brigade, champions and saviors of Royal Palms, those who will help when no others care, the unbiased and winner of The Order of Farbanti among numerous other awards for humanitarianism.
I really want to swear my lungs out at you guys, but I can't.

ooc: And you obviously do not have any grasp of international politics. You were asked to leave, not only by the government of the nation you're attempting to foist your attentions on, but by the peacekeeping forces which that government requested to have in place to prevent just such meddling.

Your lack of tact, diplomacy, and frankly, intelligence in this matter will prove to be your undoing. Proceed at your own risk. However, let me warn you again, in case you didn't get it the first time.

I don't care what 'humanitarian' group you think you are, or how many titles you attach to your name, you have NO right to operate in Lavenrunz without the express permission of that nation. None. As in lack thereof. As in, if you persist in your efforts, YOU will be seen as the agressor, not us. We have been clear in our warnings, and in our messages, and given the delicate situation that has existed here, we will be well within our rights to blow you right out of the water.

Ample warning has been given. Ignore it at your own peril.


And ... btw ... edit ... do you not get that the fighting is friggin' over, boy? What's this 'rape pillage and plunder' bit? It was resolved peacefully with relatively minimal bloodshed. Relatively. Do yourself a favor - go home.

Why am I the only one who is willing to have more of my army as medics than as combat troops? I mean, if you guys had your own medical brigades, I wouldn't have to get mine shredded.

ooc: 1) no one asked you to show up. 2) what makes you think we're not capable of taking care of any medical needs? If you knew anything about what you're doing, you wouldn't make such broad-based and frankly, stupid remarks. Again, see above.

From Zwoll's naval air station a squadron of Feuerkatz fighter-bombers swooped over the sea towards the LRR flotilla.
~Transmission~ "LRR Hospital ships--we do not know your exact intentions--nor do we care. You were not invited to Lavenrunz, and unless you properly apply we will open fire on you. Please begin withdrawal towards the fifty mile limit immediately." ~Transmission ends~
"They might really just be hospital ships." said the operations officer. "This could get ugly."
"We've warned them several times. Damn it, I'm tired of foreigners assuming we're some kind of third rate dicatatorship like East Turkestan. And another thing..." said Admiral de Goethe

~Transmission~
To Neutral Intervention Force Command
You will please not interfere in our mission to urge the withdrawal of the LRR flotilla. We would prefer to deal with this efficiently rather than have a large number of nations involved with what we regard as a purely internal matter at this point.
Admiral Carlotta de Goethe
~End Transmission~

OOC: I don't think you get it, LRR. You don't just barge into someone's country with aid. Maybe you are roleplaying that you don't have any intelligence on the situation but it is in fact nearly resolved and fairly calm.

KG SATO, stationed in Lavenrunz

They'd gone into dispersed, fortified positions when the fighting started, and they hadn't suffered heavy attacks. The ships had dispersed; underwater, surface, air.

And they'd never gotten attack orders of their own. There could have been three sources for those. The home office, which was als at this time SATO. SATO military command, which would have made for a ticklish situation with the tensions between Lavenrunz and Menelmacar.

And Aurora von Sachshausen. When the "football" - actually a small, discreet thing - had arrived, carried by armed and armored Guards, the note on the package had been more important than the actual communications device.

To be delivered by hand, by Guards Captain Jonathan Rukavindi,
into the hands of Aurora von Sachshausen, Reigning Empress of Lavenrunz

Eyebrows were raised by security, but when the captain's identity was confirmed, he was hurried to Aurora's presence. The Empress seemed little more than a child, though she had grown a lot in the last year and developed enough to be a young woman.
"Are you to remain in my presence while this is opened, Captain?" the Empress asked.

The Captain bows from the waist - almost as deep as armor and abnormal bulk will allow. His voice is a smooth basso rumble.

"If it please Your Majesty, to aid in authentication. In any case, I will remain at your disposal."

Empress Aurora nods and says, "Thank you, Captain." With that, she opens the package, her curiousity now certainly picqued.

The Federation Forces hear the request of the Lavenrunz naval forces, and their hand is stayed.

For now.

But they would not fail in their charge.

They remain in place, ready to fire, but waiting until Lavenrunz had dealt with the situation.

Inside the package what looks like a prosaic mobile phone, grotesquely bulky for Territorial equipment and militarily styled. Unfolding antenna, obviously. Sensors where one'd grasp it. A lens, with a discreet icon indicating it is a retina identifier.

Amber-glowing text on the front:

Persona-locked comms
Aurora von Sachshausen
(Reigning Empress)

Please provide
persona id

Behind it, a handwritten note:

Empress Aurora,

At this time, as you have no doubt realized, I formally confirm leaving my post as Regent. I hope I have lived up to the trust placed in me, if only by not interfering. Now, I place my trust in you.

The enclosed terminal is mainly symbolic if useful for secure, authenticated communications; what is important is that Erwin Kavalier and the Territorial contingent stationed in the Empire will follow you until the situation changes and you release them.

If necessary to preserve chains of command, assets will be withdrawn from SATO and assigned to a reinstituted Kampfgruppe Lavenrunz.

Guards Captain Jonathan Rukavindi is, I believe, best suited to act as your liason.

Please, give my love to Thirty Camellias. I cannot offer her much comfort from here.

Until we meet again, I remain,

Renate von Saucken

Aurora is very obviously touched by this, and a smile comes to her. She realized that she had not had much to do with the leopard-avatar, but that she should. Thirty Camelias was among those that her mother had advised her to trust fully.
Looking up at the Guard Captain, she said, "It seems you are to be added to my staff, Captain. I will see to it that you are provided for, and you will also be quartered among my own people."


To Advisor Renate von Saucken

Thank you very much for the confidence you place in me. It means more than that of almost anyone. You were one of my mother's oldest allies, and there has always been some spiritual bond as well as political between our people.
I will never forget this friendship, and I won't forget that of Thirty Camellias. She has been very loyal. I will give your love to her.
In turn, if you ever have need of Lavenrunz, I will be ready to respond.

Aurora von Sachshausen

The Tank

'...Advises that you are in no danger, over. Apparently a representative of the area CO will be along soon to issue you with a formal apology' Feb's voice finished.

Haruka grinned, 'Leopard reports everything's clear, sir.' she said to the Commander. He nodded, and smiled, 'Probably about time you got dressed then, Haruka...I don't think whoever they send will be too impressed at seeing you in a dressing gown.'

Air Destroyer Goliath

As the Lavenrunzian aircraft approached a helicopter lifted off from one of Goliath's recovery positions and dropped in alongside it. It followed the escort to Hofburg, where it landed as near to the Autumn Palace as possible, offloading four bodyguards and a slightly built woman, her face largely hidden by a scarf and a pair of sunglasses.

She headed inside, slightly taken aback by the grandness of the place, soon finding herself standing face-to-face with the Lavenrunzian foreign minister, Aurora von Konigsmark. She smiled, and bowed slightly, 'Your excellency, I'm Georgina Bryde, ambassador on behalf of the Federation of Marshall Island,' she smiled brightly, although Aurora could probably make out an odd glow behind the left side lens of her sunglasses.

"The new ambassador, yes." says Aurora von Konigsmark. "I hope you had a pleasant journey--I understand," she adds dryly, "That there was a bit of confusion. Nevertheless, welcome. Refreshments of any kind?"

Zwoll

Colonel Letz took a deep breath, feeling nevertheless that she had gotten a decent deal. She got out of her jeep and marched up towards the Federation compound.
I'm sorry. I'm... she gritted her teeth.

On the beach where the five great barges had landed, the storm grew once more, as the clouds gathered, and the rain poured down. And then, with a terrible scream, they moved slowly away from the shore, four, wreathed with terrible black clouds, sweeping swiftly out to sea, floating rapidly apart to ring Lavenrunz, while the fifth, its golden surface gleaming in the sun, slowly travelled around the coast toward the town of Wiedlingburg.

{Low-level encrypted diplomatic communique to Empress Aurora, Lavenrunz}

Your Majesty,

I am curious as to whether a decision has been reached as to the visit of Her Imperial Highness' Empress Rialla ux-Rihad II's proposed visit to Lavenrunz. What say you?

~ High Lord Dejure of Ax-turath

{Transmission terminates}

OCC: So really, you think my hospital ships are some kind of secret armed ships ready to kill you? Well, they aren't. If I am so stupid to not contact the government, do you honestly think I would try a tactic such as disguising my ships? No, always in parade formation with full musical accompaniment and formality. And also, you guys chased away my trawlers so I wouldn't actually have any idea what was going on.

IC:

The captain suffers a heart attack, and is brought down to the medical wards. Meanwhile, the jittery and frightened XO orders the fleet to run at full speed the other way. He did not want to be vaporized.

Meanwhile......

At Gdansk, the LRR fleet largely lays at anchor, besides for the regular coastal patrol, and the submarines and trawlers which roam under a flag of neutrality throughout the world's oceans.

Grand Admiral Horatio Nelson barges into his office, red-faced and boiling with anger.

"THAT STUPID IDIOTIC CAPTAIN!!!!!! DOES HE KNOW NOTHING????? REMIND ME TO HAVE HIM SHOT WHEN HE GETS BACK!!!!!!!!!"
"Aye, s-sir."
"AND YOU!!!!!! GET OUT OF MY SIGHT!!!!!!!"

The ensign runs to the door, but trips on an operation manual for Skjold corvettes and breaks his nose. The admiral hurls a desk calendar his way, and he dodges it and runs down the hall.

"PATCH ME THROUGH TO THE MEDICAL SQUADRON!!!!!"
"Aye, sir."
"YOU *Expletive* IDIOT!!!!! YOU ARE ORDERED TO TURN AROUND AND COME HOME THIS *Expletive* INSTANT!!!!!!!!! YOU'LL ALL BE LUCKY IF YOU COME OUT OF THIS MIDSHIPMEN!!!!!!!!!!!"

[ooc: I should have posted this two days ago, as i said Jo i would... of course, my lazyness... hit me.]

ic:

He left the embassy at eleven in the morning.

Outside, there was still snow, lots of it... it looked beautiful, as if the recent events didn´t even happen...

It was sort of a deception, at least he thought so...

It wasn´t too much of a walk, perhaps fifteen minutes, after he reached the café, it wasn`t overly full, as a matter of fact, it was nearly empty... Understandable, the people weren´t exactly in the mood for such things.

Mhm... my contact isn`t here yet, eh? Well... have to wait for it.

He sat down and ordered a hot tea, waiting for his 'contact'.

A rather mild looking little fellow with glasses and an overcoat walked into the cafe. He ordered a coffee with cream and a bagel with jam. As he waited he glanced around.
The cafe staff were rather weary looking. A young woman approached the man from Der Angst's table and put a small teapot, a cup and a spoon on his table. "Will there be anything else, mein herr?" she asked, forcing a friendly smile to her face.

OOC:
Lunatic Retard Robots--whatever you want to think is fine. This is my nation, my thread, and if you want to rant like a lunatic, be my guest. But please do it somewhere else, if you're just going to complain and throw accusations around.

To Empress Aurora of Lavenrunz,

I believe that to properly pursue such discussions as you suggest, a face to face meeting would be both more appropriate, and more personable as such friendships ought to be. There, after all, is no need for subterfuge and the usual political wranglings that go on in such talks among other lesser nations. A quiet talk over tea appeals much more, in my mind at least. Please, at your convenience, set a time and place, and I will be happy to make arrangements.

Your kind words are appreciated, your Majesty, and your sentiments are echoed here, I assure you. I look forward to discussions on how we can benefit one another, and perchance, to make any clarifications I can on the previous offer of alliance. As before, there is no pressure, as I of all people understand that any one solution is not always viable for all situations.

I anticipate your response, and hope now that the matter of the inquiry has passed and things have regained some sense of normalcy, that we can both relax and have a pleasant visit that is not all dry business.

Con affetto,

-- Nathicana

[OOC: *points at Lavenrunz* She wrote it too.]

The snow wreathed Hofburg, providing a lovely white blanket that seemed to pull Ein's mind into a kind of dreamy reflection. He had to admit, when there was a solid wall between him and the snow and a lot of heat on his side of the wall, the cold whiteness was very pretty to watch. Ein and Bolan had been given rooms in one of the Lavenrunzian barracks until they were ready to go home, and the military surroundings had a comfortable familiarity about them. No matter where one went, military architects seemed to think the same way.

This had been a crazy trip. First the Ball, then the fighting after, then the surrender, and now Ein and Bolan were both waiting for word on what was to happen to them. Bolan couldn't wait to get home. Ein couldn't either at first, but the more time he spent in Lavenrunz, and spent with the people, the more reluctant he was to leave right away.

People... you're bullshitting yourself, he thought. There's only one person that's making you drag your feet.

*************************************************************

Erica felt odd, almost let down. There was a peace in her soul now. Though the Menelmacari landings had never happened, she had shown her loyalty, her courage and her ability. She was then able to weep for Empress Joanna as she knelt in the cathedral and beg for forgiveness for failing her.

But the possibility of that forgiveness, of that understanding...she had first seen it on a mission, of all things. As she sat in the family home, listening vaguely to the sounds of preparation for Christmas, she wistfully wondered if he'd ever call her.

*************************************************************

"Hey, check this out!" Running feet startled Ein, and he turned to see Bolan running up to him, grinning.

"Look at this," his comrade held out a piece of paper. Ein took it and read it. "Albert's coming here?"

"Yup," Bolan nodded. "I took the liberty of getting our Glorious Humanity uniforms laundered and patched up so we can look presentable." He clapped Ein on the shoulder. "Finally man, we're going home!"

"Yeah, yeah that's great," Ein replied quietly, turning back to the window.

*************************************************************

"Hey, are you going to come help decorate the tree, war hero?" Erica's sister Margrethe said, poking her head in. Margrethe gave the lie to the notion that married women let themselves go; she looked more radiant than ever after having two kids, Eric thought with a pang.

Not that she felt resentment; she felt buoyed up from her melancholy and chastised herself; she was surrounded by loved ones, the kids excited just to be with her. She got all caught up in where to put the gleaming glass balls and little candles and ribbons.

But when the phone rang, she turned without thinking, and was a little disappointed to hear it was just her brother, whose flight had been late but who would be arriving later that evening.

*************************************************************

"Okay, what's wrong? You should be jumping up and down with glee." Bolan narrowed his eyes, and his smile turned sly. "You've got redhead on the brain, don't ya?"

"Up yours Theo," Ein grinned, then his expression turned serious. "Yeah, yeah I do. But I can't do anything about it. She and I are both soldiers, both elite killers. We gotta go where the bosses point us. We'd get to see each other rarely at best. Not exactly seed for a good relationship."

"Who says?" Bolan asked.

"Duty does," Ein shook his head. "Come on, there's no reason for you and me to stay here. We'll be called home when Albert arrives, and we'll go back to watching his back. We'll travel all over the
world behind him, and probably only come back here occaisionally when Albert makes a state visit."

"So?" Bolan came up to stand next to Ein. "Who cares? You want her man, I can see it. I ain't seen you mooning over someone like this since back in high school. You damn well ought to do something
about it. At least talk to her before we leave."

Ein glanced at the phone near his bed. Next to it was a phonebook, open to the F section, where it had been for several days.

"Do it man," Bolan nudged him in the ribs. "You know you want to."

"But I don't want to..." Ein trailed off.

"Hurt her? Break her heart? Don't you have any balls anymore?" Bolan punched him in the side lightly. "You want her, and if you don't talk to her, you'll always wish you did, and then you'll be a disgruntled old man sitting on his porch yelling at people and being a general nuisance."

Ein chuckled softly, then sighed again.

*************************************************************

This is not the kind of life people like me have. Erica thought. It was silly to feel self pity; she did feel wistful though, watching the couples at the large family table. They weren't perfectly romantic or anything, but they could look around them and see the sum of their lives reflected in the feelings of others.

But then again: she would never feel that boredom that seemed to be the lot of some of her siblings. What must they feel, with lives tied up just in the bank, the firm, the family? She grinned at something her sister said and took up a knife to slice the Christmas pudding.

She just felt bit of a longing for something that she had seen ruin the lives of other soldiers, wives' or husbands' nerves shot with wondering about every phone call, lonely half the time...

*************************************************************

"Alright," Ein said finally. "You win." He didn't really feel bad about losing that argument. He sat down on the bed and lifted the receiver. Bolan quietly left the room as Ein dialed.

Ein put the phone to his ear and listened to it ring half wondering if anyone would even pick up. You are out of your goddamn mind...

"Guten abend." said a pleasant female voice he didn't recognize.

Oh shit... Ein desperately tried to recall his high school German and failed. Finally, he just answered and hoped the person on the other end spoke English. "Ah, I'm looking for Erica von Fischer? My name is Ein."

"One moment, please." the voice said, and put the phone down. Ein could faintly hear music and voices talking and laughing, sounds of cutlery on plates.

"Hello?" Erica said. She almost laughed at herself; she had had to make herself not run to the phone like a teenager.

"Guten tag," Ein finally remembered some of his German, although he vaguely thought somewhere in his mind that that was the wrong greeting. Wasn't "Guten tag" good day or something like that? He finally gave up on trying to speak her language and just spoke his. "How are you doing?"

"I'm fine--Happy Christmas." she laughed. "How are you?"

"Bored. This isn't how I planned to spend my holidays, but hey... beats the heck out of family reunions, at least in my family." Ein laughed. "How are you doing? I uh, missed you a little."

"Oh." Erica said. "Well, it's nice to hear from you. I'm at my family's house here." she added. "That's too bad about family holidays..."

"Ah well, gives me a chance to talk to you," Ein shrugged it off, quickly changing subjects. "Speaking of talking to you, I didn't mean to pull you away from your family. I'd like to see more of you
though."

Erica blushed and felt a rush of pleasure. "Oh. Well..what did you have in mind?"

"Well... you kind of have to tell me. I'm the new guy in this country, remember?" Ein chuckled softly, suddenly feeling a lot better.

"Do you like to ski?" Erica asked.

"Never skiied," Ein answered. "I do snowboard though, mainly because every so often some buddies get this insane notion of taking me along when they go to resorts. I'm not bad," he added with a touch of pride. Not bad at all considering how I feel about really cold weather.

"I meant cross country." chuckled Erica.

"Eh... nope, never done that," Ein replied after a moment. "I'd be happy to learn though," he added quickly.

"Good. How about tomorrow, say at eight? Shall I pick you up?" Erica said, suddenly all business.

"Absolutely," Ein replied. "I'll be ready. Anything I should bring?"

"Some good civilian winter gear, that you can move freely in but that insulates you." replied Erica. "If we need more, we can pick it up on the way." she said cheerfully. "I have to go--we're about to have Christmas
pudding. Thank you for calling!"

"Anytime," Ein grinned. "You know how to get ahold of me. Enjoy your meal." He hung up the phone and sat on the bed for a moment. Then he jumped up and spent a few moments cheering like an idiot as loudly as he could without getting anyone's attention.

*snip*

He seemed to be sort of distracted, watching the snow outside...

Beautify... yet cold, without any feelings...

"Oh... no, thanks..." He hesitated, then looked around, spotting the new arrival. Rather... uninteresting fellow... Must be him.

He waved at him, indicating an 'invitation'. "Such a lonely morning... some small talk can`t be so bad..."

"Certainly...quiet today is it not?" the little man brought his coffee over and sat down. "And most unusual this snow as well. I suspect the social climate mirrors that of the weather..." he gives a curious glance at the man from Der Angst. "Well, what did you want to see me for?"

<TRANSMISSION Opens: Coalition Military Encryption>
<TO: LAVENRUNZ High Command>
<FROM: FADM Farragut, FSP>

As the situation seems to be settling down, I'd like to remove the S.P.S.S. Anglachel from stationary position over Lavenrunz and return it to it's regular orbit.

The First Task Force will remain in position until you judge the situation to be completely resolved, though.

If you feel the station is still needed, though, we will be happy to keep it in place.

FADM Farragut, FSPSN

<TRANSMISSION Terminates>

~Return Transmission~
You have our gratitude, but we understand that your purpose has been fulfilled, and most ably. Many thanks for your competence and good service.
Empress Aurora
~End Transmission~

Goliath

The Engineer climbs down from the damaged mast, changing his lifeline's clip between hooks on the Air Destroyer's side. When he gets down, he nods to his associate waiting, 'It's like the Captain thought, most of the topside array's damaged...Won't be able to repair it without putting in at dock, I shouldn't think.'

Aki nods as the report is given to her, 'Damn storms...Still, at least that's all it is.'

The Autumn Palace

Georgina smiles, 'I'm fine, thank you...Just had a meal, since I haven't quite adjusted to the time difference yet.' She absent-mindedly takes off her sunglasses, revealing the dull, slightly metallic plate that replaces most of the left side of her face, a red slit that glows faintly where her eye would have been.

The Docks

Reika salutes nervously as Colonel Letz approaches, 'Err...Good afternoon, sir...Are you here to see the Major?'

Archduke Valerian Naval Air Station

There are a few muted snickers from some of the ground crew nearby. The watch officer overseeing the refuelling glances round and it stops.
"I thought these things were supposed to be damn near invulnerable." he comments. "What happened?"

Zwoll

Colonel Letz says calmly, "I would like to speak with your commander at the earliest opportunity."

Hofburg

Georgina at last finds herself in the presence of the Chancellor, who looks very tired.
"Ambassador, it is very good to see you. There is a great deal going on--but I wanted to see you personally to discuss the relationship of our countries. Of course, there is still amity but the fact remains that this originally stemmed from our involvement with SATO, which is dwindling for Lavenrunz and non-existant for your country. What are the feelings of your leaders on this?"

"Certainly...quiet today is it not?" the little man brought his coffee over and sat down. "And most unusual this snow as well. I suspect the social climate mirrors that of the weather..." he gives a curious glance at the man from Der Angst. "Well, what did you want to see me for?"

"Well..." He sips from his tea, enjoying it`s heat and flavour. Thats him, definitely. "I think you may have noticed the sort of... well, 'missing' response my... government gave during the Winterball problem... The thing is, DA is actually in a sort of... semi- stable situation, where outside influence can tip the balance... for the better as well as for the worse." He hesitates. "During the events here, i think you realised that it turned out to become worse... we`re in the process of repairing damage, but it will take time, and tremendious efforts." Again, he sips from his tea, for a moment just sitting there, thinking. "I think you can understand that we are therefore sort of interested in... this. We know that there were certain groups inside our nation that actually supported... The rebellion." He hesitates. It´s obvious he tries not to mention Mirbach. "And... well, thwe 'peace' you... we have at the moment... We need stability, and we were wondering... Well, Empress Aurora`s recent statement regarding other powerblocks... While diplomacy is of course commendable... It sounded strange." Again, he hesitates, watching the Lavenrunzian, almost examining him. "So... We are, admittedly due to sort of selfish reasons, concerned... And we would like to know what exactly is planned... Press conferences do usually just tell half the truth. And..." He hesitates again, and stops. "Well, i think now it`s your turn."

"Well," says the little man, "In the past, Lavenrunz had to bow often to the policies of other nations. This won't be the case anymore. Lavenrunz will stand by her allies but sail more by her own lodestar, if that makes sense. And if some countries are expecting it to be easy to maintain old trade agreements, they can think again; there are a lot of people regardless of their side of the political fence who want to see things more competitive." the man becomes sly. "Of course, there are always exceptions to this. Friends we can count on, absolutely, will remain exceptions."

"Majesty." The Guards Captain bows again, like some graven idol. He remains on hand to help with identification, if necessary.



[OOC: It's just a matter of grasping the thing properly, then getting your eyes lased, your genes extracted and your hand liberally ultrasonicked and magneted.]



Later





Empress Aurora,



To mix metaphors, these are indeed the bonds that are thicker than water, and I am confident they will endure. They should - our alliance grew naturally from initial bristling through friendship and respect.



My thanks - I think you and Camellias will get along.



We will hold you to that promise as I expect you to hold us to ours. But at this time, the Empire is the state at risk. If we can mitigate this, much is won.



I remain,

Renate von Saucken



Before that



Renate puts the pen down and sands the paper. With the blessing of her nation's most powerful decision makers (over a barbecue, yesterday, with informality that would shock most), the Territory is handing an untried young woman the shotgun they gave the alliance once led by her seasoned mother.



She pours herself a large whiskey. Here's hoping you don't fuck up, Aurora. She gulps. And here's to what I know you've got, from your parents. She drains the glass. Shards in the fireplace.



She doesn't even begin to reflect that her belief in genetic superiority and the god-given rights of monarchs might be dangerous arcaicisms. It's too ingrained for her to even be aware of it.

Archduke Valerian Naval Air Station

A young-looking white-haired woman in a Captain's uniform turns from looking up at the ship to the watch officer, 'Can't be helped, she wasn't built to take storm-force winds over open ocean...It's just what happens when an Army project gets taken on by the navy without a proper redesign. She was supposed to land in high winds and wait them out, but that's not so easy on a rough sea.' she sighs, 'The replacement gear will have to be a lot more hardwearing, I suppose.'

Zwoll

The little Neko salutes hurriedly, heading over to the guard box and having a short conversation over the phone before returning, 'He can see you right away if that's ok, sir.'

Hofburg

Georgina smiles, 'Your Serene Highness, the Federation feels our relationship with Lavenrunz is a very valuable one, and one worth preserving. There has always been a wish within our government to strengthen ties with your great nation, most notably terms of mutual defence. Does Lavenrunz feel the same way?'

The gigantic golden barge swept into the harbour of Wiedlingburg with a level of speed and grace that belied its bulk and its lack of anything that might differentiate it from a palace such as might have been built on land, as it towered over the ancient walls of the town. Both the air upon which was borne that strange and alien music which now pervaded the streets and houses below, and the waters upon which the great barge rested, seemed almost to part before it, so as not to resist its passage, and it was followed by the terrible gibbers and cackles of invisible sprites and demons, while eerie forks of lightening, in strange hues of pink and violet and green, sprang from tower to tower. The golden surface of the barge was covered in its entirety with arcane runes, engraved with more than mortal skill, which glowed with a fierce inner light. Eventually, it came to right up to the pier, so that its golden gates came right up against the stone, and then, it stopped, as the gibbers and the cackles, and the darting lightening, ceased. But the music continued, both beautiful, and disturbing, driving deep into the hearts and minds of all who heard it.

Hofburg, Lavenrunz

Chancellor der Waal says, "Provided that there was ratification of current trade treaties I can definitely say we are most interested. Would you agree to friendly use of refuelling areas for planes and ships? And would you also be interested in some form of cultural exchange to make trade easier?"

Zwoll

Colonel Letz goes in to see the Major at the sentry's direction...

Wiedlingburg

Dockworkers fled as the apparition swept up towards them. Those who could see it from houses crossed themselves, and for a moment even the guards hesitated. Their hands tightened to their weapons, but with a sense of futility--for how could mortals wage war against such power?
But among the ranks a scarred sergeant-major spat discreetly. "I was in Ienotheisa and saw those Kalessin folk die. They die as dead as any. Just do the unit proud." he advised the younger men and women around him.

In the castle, courtiers stole glances at Empress Aurora to see if she shared their dread and reluctant fascination. She was smiling quietly but her eyes were just staring.
It is like a corpse ship raised from the deeps. she thought.

...

He chuckles slightly. "I´m sure you will, and we welcome it... However... If the lodestar leads you eastwards... well... this might cause problems." He smiles. "Not that we could do anything against it." He hesitates, again sipping from his tea. "Regarding trade... well, thats a WBO matter. We would like closer trade relations, though... but thats not why i am here." Again, he hesitates, bbut eventually, he continues, whispering. "We want to know who will rule Lavenrunz. The Empress or..." He doesn´t continue. But after a second or two... "For we are certain that whoever wants to rule Lavenrunz will have to take out the competition. And to be honest, we would like the Empress winning that contest..."

"You need to understand this. Most foreigners don't. The Volksraad and the Government are the people's representatives who advise the monarch. But Empress Aurora and She alone can preserve the nation." the man says with quiet intensity. "The Government is a balance, to prevent stagnation and rigidness." the man draws back then and takes a sip of his coffee.

"I see... This raises the question of who will be the more influential... Claudia Der Waal or..." He hesitates. "Well, despite Mirbach being cleared of all charges, we have a slightly different opinion regarding the matter... perhaps because, ummm... well, we had two witnesses at the ball." Again, he hesitates, sipping the rest of his tea, then ordering another one. "And, admittedly, we`re slightly prejudiced regarding the possibility of Mirbach gaining influence by more 'legal' ways..."

Hofburg

Georgina nods, 'At present we see no reason to cease any trade argeements with Lavenrunz, quite the contrary,' she smiles, 'Of four companies making bids for a major contract for the supply of towed and self-propelled antiaircraft guns to the Federal Army, the one looking most likely to pick up the contract is your own Gestalt-Fabriken.' she pauses, and checks her bag, handing Chancellor der Waal a document, 'In fact, the Supreme Commander would like to offer Lavenrunz favoured nation status, if that's acceptable to you.'

She thinks for a moment, 'While military matters would have to be run past the repective service for confirmation, I can't see any problem with use of refueling and repair facilities provided adequate prior notice is given.'

'And as far a cultural exchange is concerned, that would be entirely acceptable.'

Zwoll

The Major is sitting at his desk smoking as Colonel Letz enters; he stands and salutes repectfully, but doesn't bother putting his cigarette out.

'Good afternoon, Colonel,' he smiles.

Claudia der Waal breaks into a smile. "But this is wonderful! Then it is only details that are necessary--I am most pleased, Ambassador! In turn, I will offer the same favoured nation status for GMC--this will be a wonderful partnership." she rings a bell and adds, "I think this calls for a drink. Shall we call in our aides and start to hammer out the preliminary details?"

Zwoll

Colonel Letz is faintly annoyed by the cigarette...but the person is from the Federation, after all. "Major, on behalf of my unit I apologize for having made you and your team targets. We never had any intentions of hostility--but we would have if anything had gone wrong. I hope you can understand that it was local trouble you were swept up in and that there was no intention of any attack on sovereignty or you or your people."

The music intensified, swelling into a glorious crescendo, and the great gates swung silently open, revealing the darkness within. Then, the sound of steadily beating drums cut through the swirling torrent of music, and a column of tall warriors, clad in breastplates, bracers and greaves of tough black leather, and with bright plumes, of gold and green coiling together in an endless dance, adorning their high helms, marched forth, to form up opposite the Lavenrunzian guard on either side of the gate, and as the last man wheeled into position, the drums stopped.

Then, a strange trio entered the gateway. One was tall and noble of bearing, his many-hued armour glowing so brightly that merely to look at him stung the eyes of those watching, and a long blade was scabbarded at his side. To his left was a hunched, wizened figure, clad in the familiar sable robes of a Doctor of the Kalessini, but it was the man, for man he was, that stood at the Prince's right hand, who most drew the gaze of those nearby. He too, was in simply clad in robes of black cloth, yet while he was just as gaunt as the Doctor, he was tall with it, standing stiffly erect as if propped up by a wooden pole strapped to his back, and his cowl was thrown back, revealing a face, that, while unmistakeably human, appeared more like a fleshless skull than any man's visage ought to be, and his eyes burned like coals in their sockets, full of pain and hatred.

And then, the music stopped.

Every instinct in Colonel von Braun called for him to signal the MRLS and artillery units at the nearby base and blow this obscenity before him to bits, sending them into hell where they belonged.
His hand wanted to cross himself.
Nevertheless...his Empress had called, and he would obey. He wondered if Mirbach was mad to have advised this...
Deep bass booming and a rattle and thump of snare and timpani swelled and grew, and a golden fanfare broke into a heroic march. Executing perfectly timed steps, the Lavenrunzian honour guard marched up and formed two lines. Sword swept out in a silver arc as a voice thundered, "Present--arms!" Twelve hundred feet rose and came down with a crash of boot, and bayonets presented a glittering hedge of points.
Stepping forward, respendent in his full dress uniform, the commander of the regiment said, "I am Colonel the Markgraf von Braun. Sirs, you are welcome to Lavenrunz. I am to conduct you to Her Majesty the Empress."

From the battlements, Aurora felt a dread. Not of those below, but of what she found suddenly in herself. She made her face a mask and went into the castle.

The Kalessini party remained absolutely motionless as the Lavenrunzian soldiers formed up. Then, as the Colonel stepped forward, the Prince advanced to meet him, his two strange companions by his side.

"Greetings Colonel,"

His voice was perfectly modulated. Quiet, yet clear, and with a musical quality which resonated through the minds of those who listened, filling them with a warm sense of trust;

"I am Prince Juigyan al Darglish of the Empire of Kalessin, commander of the seventh fleet, and rider of red Lhaimarachaie. I thank you for your gracious welcome."

He glanced over the assembled ranks of Lavenrunzian soldiery;

"The discipline of your men appears to be exemplary. Pass my compliments on to their drill sergeant."

The flags flapped in a sudden wind as the Colonel replied. "Thank you for your compliments, I shall be sure to pass them on." the Colonel replies with a bow of thanks. Rider eh? Were you in Ienotheisa or the Channel Islands when we showed you a thing or two? However, uneasily, he felt that this Prince was not so bad a fellow--it was strange, this magic stuff, but after all the genetic manipulations of Ravenspire, an ally, were just as disturbing if you thought about it...
"If you will please follow me, I will lead you up to the castle where Her Majesty awaits you. Your troops will be obliged to remain outside, but they are invited along with your officers to mess with the regiment."

The Prince nodded courteously;

"As you wish sir. I trust that you will allow my advisors to accompany me?"

As he spoke, a burly warrior, clad in iron rather than leather, stepped forward, while another four Kalessini soldiers emerged from the Barge, bearing a litter between them, upon which rested a box-shaped object, hidden under a red-velvet cover.

The Prince gestured toward the warrior;

"Your subordinates may communicate with my soldiers through Captain Huil."

"Of course, your advisors are most welcome." says the Colonel. "Please follow me."
A cold wind blows on the ascent up the hill where the castle lies. It is a grand affair of the late medieval period but well upkept, the archway at the entrance a yawning mouth before them.
Inside, a grand entryway with stairs leading up to the upper halls greets them; guards line the walls, respendant in their full dress, swords flashing out in salute as the party comes in.
A gentleman in a white and gold uniform bows them into the upper hall, where the Empress and those of her court who are with her await them. The Prince and his party see an adolescent girl with fair hair, bright blue eyes and an intelligent face seated on an ornate chair. The other people are all standing. She is wearing a robe of handsome brocade and a gold circlet on her head. A leopard crouches at her feet, growling a bit at the new arrivals, quieting as she places a hand on its broad spotted head.

The Prince strode forward to within a few metres of the throne, sending a wave of calm floating through the mind of the leopard. He doffed his helmet, tucking it under his left arm, and bowed to Aurora with the practised grace of a courtier, seemingly unencumbered by his armour, the glow of which was now respectfully subdued. Then, that same quiet, clear voice breathed through his lips, and that same warm music brushed up against Aurora's mind, filling her with a gentle sense of calm and trust.

"I am Prince Juigyan al Darglish of the Empire of Kalessin, commander of the seventh fleet, and rider of red Lhaimarachaie. I come to congratulate you on the manner in which you regained the power which is rightfully yours, and to bring you gifts. One from my people to yours, and another which my Queen sends to you as a fellow queen."

He straightened, a genial smile spreading across his face, which had much of the beauty that one might see in an Elf-lord, although there was a hardness there which spoke of strength and experience beyond the wildest imaginings of any warrior of the Noldor. His ears however remained hidden by the high back-plate of his armour, which curled protectively around his neck. And his eyes, which were deep and full of unimaginable sorrow, gazed into hers.

"I see that you are more beautiful by far than any of our informants had claimed."

The leopard appeared strangely unaffected by the touch of calm, indeed it seemed wary and watchful.
The Empress flushed slightly at the compliment, but her eyes looked into his with their own sorrow, and with a strength of will rarely seen in adults let alone in the young.
"Thank you, Prince. Tell me what news you bring from Kalessin and from the realms near it, and then you will be my guest tonight."

"News?"

Juigyan's chuckle had a melancholy ring to it;

"Very little that is 'new' ever happens in the Empire."

He gestured to his two companions, who now both stood behind his left.

"May I introduce my advisors to you? This is Doctor Hilarity.."

The Doctor bowed stiffly, his joints cracking under the unaccustomed strain,

"And this is my good friend, and your fellow human, Sir Johannes Klosterheim, Knight of Christ."

Klosterheim also bowed, his flaming eyes sweeping the court.

General Carl von Bek felt a strange shudder go through him. He felt he knew that name, but how or why he did not know. He could barely take his eyes away from the strange despair and horror of the man.
Aurora said, "You are welcome here, sirs. If you have no news to bring me, then shall we discuss your errand?"

As Klosterheim's eyes passed over Von Bek, a strange glimmer of recognition flashed across his face, and he fixed his gaze upon the Lavenrunzi General for several long seconds, before moving on.

Meanwhile, Prince Juigyan flashed a cheery smile, and gestured for the litter-bearers to advance. He stepped toward them, and easily lifted the box, which he carried back toward the throne.

"The gifts from my people, I can discuss later with yourself, or with your advisors. The gift from my Queen, I must present to you now."

Empress Aurora nodded her approval graciously.
Von Bek's head swam. Where had he seen this man before? He had the oddest impression of an old family painting--did this ghoulish figure resemble someone in it?
He became irritated. After all, he was a highly decorated war hero, a general in the Imperial Guard and hardly someone to be trifled with. His own gaze levelly met that of Klosterheim and he bowed after a moment.

The Prince carefully placed the box down onto the stone floor of the chamber, before opening it gently, and lifting out what was instantly recognisable from its shape as an egg. It was however larger by far than any egg that Aurora had ever seen before, being approximately the same size as a large dog, and faint glimmerings of ever-changing colour could be seen tinging the tan hue of its leathery surface.

"Behold the egg of a dragon!"

Exclamations of admiration and astonishment were heard from the court. Aurora's eyes lit up and she stared in fascination. "A dragon's egg? Truly?"
She stood--at which all present bowed in the midst of their staring. Walking up to it, touching it gently, she said, "How long will it be until it hatches?"

"It is due to hatch approximately eighteen hours from now. As such you must decide here and now whether you wish to accept this great honour and duty that my Queen has bestowed upon you."

Aurora looked up. "Yes, I accept. Now: I have gifts for your Queen, of course." she nodded to Count Chemnitz, who beckoned servants forward.
The first of the gifts was a tusk--but what a tusk! It was several meters long, so that five strong men had to lift it, and was elaborately carved in minute detail, depicting an ancient scene of a courtly progress. "This is a tusk of an extinct breed of elephant, which was part of the spoils of war when ages ago Lavenrunz ruled most of what is now the Sultanate of North Star. And now I give it to your Queen." Aurora explained.
The other gift was a bird in a cage. It was a black bird with yellow around its eyes. "This is a marvelous bird that can imitate any melody." Aurora said quietly. "It belonged to my Mother; I would like your Queen to have it."

Juigyan nodded solemnly, and nodded for his retainers to collect the gifts.

"On behalf of my Queen, I thank you for your fine gifts. It is good to meet a Young-Kingdomer who shares some of our customs."

He placed the egg back into its casket with extreme care, and reached into a small pouch at his waist.

"With the egg, comes another gift, which will allow you to speak with your Dragon, and her to speak with you."

He stretched out his hand toward Aurora, a gleaming pool of silver half-hidden within his gauntlet.

Graciously nodding, wondering what 'Young Kingdoms' referred to, Aurora decided to ask the Foreign Minister when she had a moment.

The Imperial Bodyguard--and Thirty Camelias--watched the prince carefully when his hand went into his pouch.

Aurora raised her eyebrows. "I'll be able to talk with it as well? I see...and what exactly is that you have there?"

The Prince opened his hand, to reveal a necklace of the purest silver, which glowed with a gentle sheen, and set into its centre, was a stunning diamond, perfectly clear and colourless, from the heart of which poured out a stream of brilliant white light.

"How beautiful!" exclaimed Aurora. The play of light on the jewellry dazzled the room. Aurora, who was not normally interested in jewels, was impressed in spite of herself, mostly because it was magic.
"Tellme," she said quietly, "What will this do?"

The Prince smiled genially at her reaction:

"When you wear this gem, none shall be able to hide a secret from you, should you wish to discover it. You will be able to contact your generals and councillors even if they are a thousand miles away, and, most important of all, it will allow you to speak with your Dragon, and her to speak with you. And when your Dragon has been hatched, and your souls joined as one, it will reveal to you worlds upon which no mortal man has ever stood, and wonders beyond imagining."

He knelt down on one knee, his head bowed, as his proffered the stunning jewel.

Aurora was both amazed and wary of the gift. Her first thought was expressed. "Will others be able to read my thoughts as well, Prince? It is a handsome gift...but surely it is too priceless even for a monarch."

Juigyan chuckled;

"You accept the egg of a Dragon without a moment's thought, and then question your worthiness to wear a simple item of jewellery?"

He shook his head despairingly;

"Ah...I suppose that such a twisted outlook is to be expected of you Young-Kingdomers. In answer to your question though, no, the necklace will not open your mind to foreign control, indeed, after a while, you may learn to use it to protect your mind, which is, in its current state, much more vulnerable than you know."

Empress Aurora looked at him coldly. "Twisted outlook? Some would say that of your folk, which is why I am on the verge of not accepting this...present." her manner had abruptly changed; almost like her cat companion, her eyes seemed to blaze, and her manner was very tense. "But perhaps..." she drew out the word, "You did not make yourself entirely clear."

The Prince didn't bat an eyelid, his clear blue eyes continuing to gaze into Aurora's, free from fear and malice, devoid of love or compassion. A wry half-smile flickered across his lips;

"I believe that I made myself completely clear. In all this world which we now share, and in all the countless worlds beyond, there is nothing more precious than the egg of a Dragon. If you were to travel through all the wide lands of Kalessin, whether you came to a humble woodcutter's hovel, deep in the dark western forests, or to a towering palace of pure white marble, lined with shining gold, and encrusted with a myriad of flawless gems, you would never find a single person, male or female, rich or poor, young or old, who would not, without hesitation or regret, give up all that they owed, family and friends, power and riches, for the chance to lay their hands on this egg which lies before you now. And the egg of a Dragon cannot be granted as a gift by any Kalessini, not even by the Emperor himself. The Queen alone decides to whom the eggs are granted. She alone can grant this greatest of all honours, and by her giving, the honour of receiving is made greater still."

He looked down at the necklace in his hand, before returning his eyes to the young Queen of Lavenrunz.

"This necklace, beautiful though it is, and long in the crafting, is but cold metal and stone, and the magic which courses through it is simple and crude, but a single facet of its maker's skill. How can you deny that any outlook which allows you to think such a thing a greater gift than the egg of a Dragon, and the boundless potential which lies within, is anything but twisted?"

[OOC: Lost the first version of this into the murky depths of the forum - so this is a rushed and sub-standard re-write. Sorry!]

Empress Aurora's courtiers were scandalized, but the Empress watched gravely.
"This is a rather parochial point of view. We do not even have envoys in your empire, and we know little of it beyond the fact that you attacked us merely for becoming allied with Menelmacar. So I'm going to be blunt." she leaned forward and said, "I have no guarantee that what you say is true. How do I know this isn't some trick to get inside my head?"

"You have no way of knowing that anything I have said is true, and nothing that I can say here and now can prove it. It is up to you to decide - are you willing to trust the Empire, or will you turn your back on us, and the opportunities which friendship between our two peoples will create? I will admit though that if I wished to 'get inside your head', I would not need to use any form of trickery. I could do it here, and now, if I wished. No, although I am loathe to attempt to guess the motives of my Queen, for she is wiser than I can ever hope to be, I myself suspect that the aim of her gift is to help to alleviate the problem that you have just mentioned. That of ignorance - of us and our nature, and of the nature of our world."

He smiled faintly;

"Oh, and we are perfectly willing to accept your envoys, should you wish to send any."

Empress Aurora nodded. "Then I accept the gift of your Queen, and the friendship offered." her blue eyes were unwavering. "Now, Prince, I hope you will be my guest for dinner."
Aurora reached and took up the necklace and held it up for the court to see, then placed it round her neck with the graceful assistance of a lady in waiting.