NationStates Jolt Archive

Dateline: Prince Milo Island, Roycelandia

A puzzling mystery in Roycelandia this afternoon as Imperial Coastguard vessels found a World War II vintage cruiser drifting abandoned in Imperial Waters, off Prince Milo Island.

The name on the vessel reads Musketeer, and there are no signs of any crew. Indeed, the entire vessel appears to be in perfect condition.

All weapons were loaded and ready, as if expecting some sort of attack.

The Captain's Log has not yet been publicly released, and the Defence Bureau has dismissed claims of Unmarked Black Helicopters in the skies over Prince Milo Island as "rantings by deluded Conspiracy Theorists."

The Imperial Defence Bureau has asked any member of the international community who can shed some light on this to come forward as soon as possible.

More information as it comes to hand...

The AU ambassodor to Roycelandia was curious. He had only heard of a case like this once before, and he did not know the result of the previous situation. "Perhaps I could aid Roycelandia in finding out the mystery," he wondered.

Its ours and we want it back now.

Any attempt to examine it further, or keep it, will be considered a malicious act of greed.

BTW, particularly stay away from the locked green box...er, if you should find it.

From: The AU Foriegn Department
To: The Government of The Apostles

We contest that this vessel belongs to you on the grounds that your nation did not exist during WW2. Even if it did belong to you as you claim, by international marine law, this vessel now belongs to the people who found the vessel.

The Vessel found abandoned in Imperial Waters has been claimed under International Maritime Salvage Laws by the Empire of Roycelandia.

Roycelandia is willing to accept limited aid from Foreign Countries to unravel the mystery, particularly the previous Navy the ship belonged to. (They're not getting it back, however).

It has also been reported by the Palm Islands News Network that the ship was equipped with *[Censored By Imperial Defence Bureau]* and that the crew *[Censored by Imperial Defence Bureau]*.

Quite how this information came to light is uncertain, but *[message corrupted]*

The Defence Bureau is debating whether or not to release an official statement...

The Theocracy of the Apostles does not recognise the Austar Union in this matter; and wonders what role, if any, it has in its resolution.

The benevolent Theocracy suggests the AU ambassador's facile attempts to become involved are clumsy and obvious - you want our ship!

BTW, we bought the ship after WWII, and named it Musketeer in honour of Richlieu's favourite musketeer.

[quote="Roycelandia"]claimed under International Maritime Salvage Laws by the Empire of Roycelandia.

We reject such a claim. It is our contention the ship was sabotaged by persons unknown (yeah, like we really don't know) who are now attempting to discover various military, diplomatic and technology secrets belong into the Theocracy. As is well known, maritime law does not permit salvage in such circumstances. We repeat: It's ours and we want it back now.

As proof of indentity, you will discover the words "By God's Grace" on each armament.

The ship was originally embarked on a peace mission to countries unspecified in order to spread God's word on Earth.

We reject such a claim. It is our contention the ship was sabotaged by persons unknown (yeah, like we really don't know) who are now attempting to discover various military, diplomatic and technology secrets belong into the Theocracy. As is well known, maritime law does not permit salvage in such circumstances. We repeat: It's ours and we want it back now.

As proof of indentity, you will discover the words "By God's Grace" on each armament.

The ship was originally embarked on a peace mission to countries unspecified in order to spread God's word on Earth.

All this in the four NS years your country has existed?

it is possible that the ship may have been victim of WWII Chronoshift technologies. consider the results of the philidelphia incident.
We supposed it may have shifted the time barrier in a secret military operation years ago. but then again... there might be no explanation to this... appearance.

The Theocracy of the Apostles does not recognise the Austar Union in this matter; and wonders what role, if any, it has in its resolution.

The benevolent Theocracy suggests the AU ambassador's facile attempts to become involved are clumsy and obvious - you want our ship!

BTW, we bought the ship after WWII, and named it Musketeer in honour of Richlieu's favourite musketeer.

The AU Ambassador formally denies these allegations:

"I formally deny the allegations made by The Apostles. Under maritime law, the rightful owner is Roycelandia. In fact, I accuse The Apostles of intentionally attempting to tarnish both the international reputation of the Austar Union, and Roycelandia."

As proof of indentity, you will discover the words "By God's Grace" on each armament.


Many nations use that line. Even if it is there, it could be anyones. Plus, maritime law does support that Roycelandia now owns the ship.

(Erm, while it's probably up to the thread's originator who the ship ends up belonging to, the date of creation listed for each nation has nothing to do with the nation's actual age. Al Khals is centuries old. Quite apart from that, generally it is only the least accomplished of RPers who would rely on such a rigid and absurdly impractical time structure as would dictate that each RL day accounts for one year of game time [/rant] Carry on!)

it is possible that the ship may have been victim of WWII Chronoshift technologies. consider the results of the philidelphia incident.
We supposed it may have shifted the time barrier in a secret military operation years ago. but then again... there might be no explanation to this... appearance.

example: http://www.unsolvedmysteries.com/usm787.html

...on Oct 23, 1943 the Navy made the USS Eldrige disapper in the Philidelphia harbor! This became known as the Philidelphia Experiment. There were also test done in August and July. The goal of this experiment was for radar invisibility, but what they got in the final text was tellaportation. On the morning of Oct 23, 1943 the USS Eldrige was ancored in the Philidelphia harbor. The order was given to turn on the special electromagnetic generators. Suddenly a green mist appeared around the USS Eldrige and it was gone. Eleven minutes later it reappered with some of the crew sick, missing, and some even fused between metal. In those 11 minutes the USS Eldrige was sighted in Norfolk Virginia. The other 2 tests that were done earlier only made it invisible. The Navy said that this never happened but there are many witnesses to it.

[quote]"I formally deny the allegations made by The Apostles. Under maritime law, the rightful owner is Roycelandia. In fact, I accuse The Apostles of intentionally attempting to tarnish both the international reputation of the Austar Union, and Roycelandia."

The Apostles are concerned with the spurious reputations of neither nation.

To put it simply, in case it hasn't yet registered, we want our ship back.

Let it be known to all concerned, progress of any form under the Theocracy's government of bishops is driven by God's will. Four years are as nothing to Him, and His inspiration is made manifest in our people's efforts, supported by the bishops' motivating zeal. May God bless all disbelievers; and we look forward to meeting with you on one of our missions.

(Erm, while it's probably up to the thread's originator who the ship ends up belonging to, the date of creation listed for each nation has nothing to do with the nation's actual age. Al Khals is centuries old. Quite apart from that, generally it is only the least accomplished of RPers who would rely on such a rigid and absurdly impractical time structure as would dictate that each RL day accounts for one year of game time [/rant] Carry on!)

OOC: As a general matter of maintaining continuity (and because population updates are daily), one RL day is considered by most people here equivalent to one NS year. Bending time for RP considerations is a oft-used practice... but it is used as a general measure of a nation's growth and capabilities. Insulting other RPers (and you'd be insulting most NS nations) for using that standard is uncalled for.

it is possible that the ship may have been victim of WWII Chronoshift technologies. consider the results of the philidelphia incident.
We supposed it may have shifted the time barrier in a secret military operation years ago. but then again... there might be no explanation to this... appearance.

example: http://www.unsolvedmysteries.com/usm787.html

...on Oct 23, 1943 the Navy made the USS Eldrige disapper in the Philidelphia harbor! This became known as the Philidelphia Experiment. There were also test done in August and July. The goal of this experiment was for radar invisibility, but what they got in the final text was tellaportation. On the morning of Oct 23, 1943 the USS Eldrige was ancored in the Philidelphia harbor. The order was given to turn on the special electromagnetic generators. Suddenly a green mist appeared around the USS Eldrige and it was gone. Eleven minutes later it reappered with some of the crew sick, missing, and some even fused between metal. In those 11 minutes the USS Eldrige was sighted in Norfolk Virginia. The other 2 tests that were done earlier only made it invisible. The Navy said that this never happened but there are many witnesses to it.

Strange...

OOC: The Philadelphia Experiment was long ago debunked as the invention of a very creative, but misguided writer.

[...on Oct 23, 1943 the Navy made the USS Eldrige disapper in the Philidelphia harbor! This became known as the Philidelphia Experiment...

Very erudite but has got what to do with the Musketeer?

(Erm, while it's probably up to the thread's originator who the ship ends up belonging to, the date of creation listed for each nation has nothing to do with the nation's actual age. Al Khals is centuries old. Quite apart from that, generally it is only the least accomplished of RPers who would rely on such a rigid and absurdly impractical time structure as would dictate that each RL day accounts for one year of game time [/rant] Carry on!)

OOC: As a general matter of maintaining continuity (and because population updates are daily), one RL day is considered by most people here equivalent to one NS year. Bending time for RP considerations is a oft-used practice... but it is used as a general measure of a nation's growth and capabilities. Insulting other RPers (and you'd be insulting most NS nations) for using that standard is uncalled for.

OOC: I didnt even know that this standard time-frame existed...

IC: The AU Ambassador to Roycelandia wishes to meet with the respected ministers in this issue in Roycelandia.

We have carefully inspected the ship and cannot find the markings "By God's Grace" anywhere on the Armaments.

[picture of armaments]

The Final entry in the Captain's Log is dated February 6th, 1944.

International Salvage Law makes the ship OURS. We found it, and it was abandoned in OUR territorial waters.

Artefacts found on the ship confirm a 1944 date.

Further details will be released as soon as the Security Bureau establish the ship is not a security risk...

[...on Oct 23, 1943 the Navy made the USS Eldrige disapper in the Philidelphia harbor! This became known as the Philidelphia Experiment...

Very erudite but has got what to do with the Musketeer?

He was refeering to his own case that the Musketeer could be his.

ooc: If you want to do quotes, then just go to the top right hand corner of the post you want to quote, then click quote.

OOC:I don't want to start an argument over this, but that is clearly not true. It would destroy almost any potential for character development, as after one RP (in which as you say any laws chronological may be manipulated) a character would be pretty much dead. There would be election threads for every democratic nation inclined to them twice a week or so! It also destroys histories, as I was originally hoping to illustrate. If a nation is only ten years old (more than enough time to begin establishing a considerable history) we'd have people rubbishing everything they'd done as happened in this thread, because hey, how could an empire have risen, fallen, mastered iron working, and landed on the moon in that time?
[/hijack]

you claim this ship is yours when it is of an era long ago. it was easily be defeated by todays standards. either it is show for museums and what not or there is a missing side/story to your "It's mine" accusation. not to start fighting here but this is rather odd.

OOC:I don't want to start an argument over this, but that is clearly not true. It would destroy almost any potential for character development, as after one RP (in which as you say any laws chronological may be manipulated) a character would be pretty much dead. There would be election threads for every democratic nation inclined to them twice a week or so! It also destroys histories, as I was originally hoping to illustrate. If a nation is only ten years old (more than enough time to begin establishing a considerable history) we'd have people rubbishing everything they'd done as happened in this thread, because hey, how could an empire have risen, fallen, mastered iron working, and landed on the moon in that time?
[/hijack]

That is a valid point. However, consider this RL case. Australia is only 100 Yrs old. But we have a national history of 300 yrs.

Plus, maritime law does support that Roycelandia now owns the ship.

Sabotage and the forceful obtaining of sea-going vessels is outside the scope of maritime law, is infact covered by international laws, mainly by centred on acts of war and diplomatic immunity.

The mere fact that all armaments were at a state of alert more than implies the taking of the ship was an offensive attack.

The ship is ours and unless Roycelandia can prove it simply turned up sans crew, we shall expect it back before relations between our nations are seriously soured.

you claim this ship is yours when it is of an era long ago. it was easily be defeated by todays standards. either it is show for museums and what not or there is a missing side/story to your "It's mine" accusation. not to start fighting here but this is rather odd.

He might have plans for future RP on this matter?

Plus, maritime law does support that Roycelandia now owns the ship.

Sabotage and the forceful obtaining of sea-going vessels is outside the scope of maritime law, is infact covered by international laws, mainly by centred on acts of war and diplomatic immunity.

Roycelandia has inspected this ship, and it provides no such markings to suggest that the ship could be yours as far as I know. Therefore, without the proof that this ship is yours, it comes under maritime salvage laws.

you claim this ship is yours when it is of an era long ago. it was easily be defeated by todays standards. either it is show for museums and what not or there is a missing side/story to your "It's mine" accusation. not to start fighting here but this is rather odd.

Our declarations of possession have nothing to do with the apparent level of technology, and I believe Roycelandia have yet to make public what they are (and I would caution them strongly against so doing).

Further, we have the word of pirateer as to the exact nature of the ship.

The Theocracy is concerned that the international community is siding with the Empire (the guys in the black hats) as opposed with the ship's rightful owner. We shall pray for you.

The AU ambassador to Roycelandia makes the following statement:

"Under Maritime Salvage laws, any vessel found in international waters without crew can be claimed by the finder. Therefore the rightful owner is Roycelandia"

Plus, maritime law does support that Roycelandia now owns the ship.

Sabotage and the forceful obtaining of sea-going vessels is outside the scope of maritime law, is infact covered by international laws, mainly by centred on acts of war and diplomatic immunity.

Roycelandia has inspected this ship, and it provides no such markings to suggest that the ship could be yours as far as I know. Therefore, without the proof that this ship is yours, it comes under maritime salvage laws.

Again, we wonder what is the AU role in this matter. Have they inspected the ship themselves? Are they allied with Roycelandia? Are they seeking to undermine God's presence on Earth?

We contend that the ship has been forcibly taken: Roycelandia state it simply turned up with a crew (and the chances of a ship doing this are...?)

It is a matter of fact, not opinion, as to what has happened to this ship. I would heartily suggest that the fact that a military ship, on full alert, has turned up without its crew is, prima facie, the result of an aggressive act outside the scope of maritime salvage laws. It is incumbent, then, for Roycelandia to show that I am wrong. Again, how does a military ship, without crew and on full alert, suddenly find itself in hostile waters? Is it self-locomotive? Was it pushed by Roycelandian trained orcas? Let us be sensible about this.

The ship is ours and Roycelandia have discovered something on board which they wish to keep for nefarious purposes. We appeal to the international community to recognise this act of piracy and encourage Roycelandia to give it back before relations are strained beyond breaking point.

As The Apostles claim that this ship is theirs, the Federation believes that the burden of proof lies with them... a burden that has not been undertaken beyond a reasonable doubt.

We are unable to determine why the Musketeer was adrift with weapons ready, but the ship appears to be in excellent condition aside from the fact it is over 60 years old.

How the ship got there is a mystery. Thats the whole idea of this thread. Our role? Well, we just got involved in negotiations somehow.

We support Roycelandia in this diplomatic conflict. The ship is rightfully his under law. It doesnt matter how right the law is, the law is the law. Therefore he can rightfully claim the ship.

As The Apostles claim that this ship is theirs, the Federation believes that the burden of proof lies with them... a burden that has not been undertaken beyond a reasonable doubt.

Agreed. And so far they have not proved it on the balance of probability.

To: Roycelandia

The AU Government wishes to send in 3 research teams to the site to find out what happened on the Musketeer. We await your response.

How the ship got there is a mystery. Thats the whole idea of this thread. Our role? Well, we just got involved in negotiations somehow.

We support Roycelandia in this diplomatic conflict. The ship is rightfully his under law. It doesnt matter how right the law is, the law is the law. Therefore he can rightfully claim the ship.

I'm almost beginning to like you!

Let us put it this way:

1. Roycelandia have issued a statement stating they have a ship without its crew, and at full battle readiness.
2. It is not theirs.
3. No other nation has laid claim to it other than the Theocracy of the Apostles. (It is, after all, our ship.)
4. The ship, WITHOUT ITS CREW AND AT FULL ALERT suddenly finds itself in Roycelandia's waters.
5. Despite our presentation of circumstantial evidence showing the prima facie nature of how it arrived in Roycelandia, the international community, and the AU in particular, continue to reject our claim, basing the rejection on nothing more than Roycelandia's word that it simply turned up in its present condition.

Let us make this clear: unless you hard-nosed, cynical politicians believe in fairies and time travelling spooks, you must know Roycelandia's version of events is a smoke screen.

I have been authorised to release the information the the last message from the Musketeer was cut off in suspicious circumstances.

The ship had embarked on a peace mission which, we realise now, was in direct opposition to Roycelandia's interests. It is apparent to us they took the ship by force and released the nonsense regarding its state of arrival in order to mask their act of piracy.

Can you, or somebody else, offer something more solid than Roycelandia's spurious assertions, in order to at least provide a reasonable basis for the facts to for their arguments?

One final word, one of the crew's mothers has had a heart-attack on hearing the news. We implore the international community to unite against Roycelandia and save our mothers further grief.

Can the Apostles offer anything more than dubious stories that demand we rely entirely on your word alone and an appeal to emotion?

To: Roycelandia

The AU Government wishes to send in 3 research teams to the site to find out what happened on the Musketeer. We await your response.

We strongly reject this. Further inspection of our vessel will beconsidered an act of war. Its technology and records are not open to others unless they have our express, written permission, based on previously agreed parameters.

Can you provide concrete evidence of these claims? To suggest that a nation is involved in priacy is a big thing...

Can the Apostles offer anything more than dubious stories that demand we rely entirely on your word alone and an appeal to emotion?

In case you missed it, we have this to offer:

1. Roycelandia have issued a statement stating they have a ship without its crew, and at full battle readiness.
2. It is not theirs.
3. No other nation has laid claim to it other than the Theocracy of the Apostles. (It is, after all, our ship.)
4. The ship, WITHOUT ITS CREW AND AT FULL ALERT suddenly finds itself in Roycelandia's waters.
5. Despite our presentation of circumstantial evidence showing the prima facie nature of how it arrived in Roycelandia, the international community, and the AU in particular, continue to reject our claim, basing the rejection on nothing more than Roycelandia's word that it simply turned up in its present condition

To: Roycelandia

The AU Government wishes to send in 3 research teams to the site to find out what happened on the Musketeer. We await your response.

We strongly reject this. Further inspection of our vessel will beconsidered an act of war. Its technology and records are not open to others unless they have our express, written permission, based on previously agreed parameters.

You can consider it an act of war if you wish. I do not, I consider it an act to learn more about a mysterious event.

Can the Apostles offer anything more than dubious stories that demand we rely entirely on your word alone and an appeal to emotion?

In case you missed it, we have this to offer:

1. Roycelandia have issued a statement stating they have a ship without its crew, and at full battle readiness.
2. It is not theirs.
3. No other nation has laid claim to it other than the Theocracy of the Apostles. (It is, after all, our ship.)
4. The ship, WITHOUT ITS CREW AND AT FULL ALERT suddenly finds itself in Roycelandia's waters.
5. Despite our presentation of circumstantial evidence showing the prima facie nature of how it arrived in Roycelandia, the international community, and the AU in particular, continue to reject our claim, basing the rejection on nothing more than Roycelandia's word that it simply turned up in its present condition

1. Yes thats true
2. Under maritime law it is
3. Yes, Roycelandia did
4. Thats what we're trying to find out
5. Without concrete evidence, we must uphold international law

Can you provide concrete evidence of these claims? To suggest that a nation is involved in priacy is a big thing...

To forcibly take another nation's ship of the line is an even bigger "thing".

We have no fear in standing by our words: and we note the Empire is remarkably silent on the issue. The nations states must realise that if a country allows acts of piracy to go unheeded then it is nothing more than words on a piece of paper.

Should Roycelandia wish to prove their case by force of arms, we stand ready under God's redeeming light.

There is no evidence to suggest that Roycelandia is undertaking acts of piracy.

The Apostles keep on screaming at the top of their lungs that the ship is theirs... but they have offered no evidence to that effect other than to say, "Well, it isn't theirs! So it much be ours!"

That is not proof of ownership. Rather, when backed by the threat of war, it is extortion.

[quote=Autonomous City-states]Can the Apostles offer anything more than dubious stories that demand we rely entirely on your word alone and an appeal to emotion?


1. Yes thats true
2. Under maritime law it is
3. Yes, Roycelandia did
4. Thats what we're trying to find out
5. Without concrete evidence, we must uphold international law

2. This has not yet been proven to the nation states. When there are two sides to a point of law, the matter is settled in an appropriate court of law recognised by both sides. Your assertion of veracity is not the word of law, and has no authority. Your words are opinion, not represenatations of fact, nor a recognised judgment.
3. Roycelandia are claiming it as salvage. It is abundantly clear they are not the owners. Even they acknowledge this.
4. "We" have no need to find out anything.
5. We agree: in the face of our arguments, where is Roycelandia's evidence?

5. Innocent Unitil Proven Guilty

You say you wonder why he wants it so much. Why do you want it so much?

There is no evidence to suggest that Roycelandia is undertaking acts of piracy.

Wrong. There is no evidence to suggest that it is not.

A MILITARY ship, without crew and on full battle alert suddenly turning up in foreign waters is prima facie evidence of piracy.

I ask the nations again: if our version of events is incorrect, please supply a reasonable alternative. You may shout it out at the top of your lungs if you wish.

There is no evidence to suggest that Roycelandia is undertaking acts of piracy.

Wrong. There is no evidence to suggest that it is not.

A MILITARY ship, without crew and on full battle alert suddenly turning up in foreign waters is prima facie evidence of piracy.

I ask the nations again: if our version of events is incorrect, please supply a reasonable alternative. You may shout it out at the top of your lungs if you wish.

Like I said, Innocent until proven guilty.

A MILITARY ship, without crew and on full battle alert suddenly turning up in foreign waters gives merely the suggestion of piracy.

If you want to take this to a court, then sure thing. Do that. I can organise a judge to be chosen

There is no evidence to suggest that Roycelandia is undertaking acts of piracy.

Wrong. There is no evidence to suggest that it is not.

A MILITARY ship, without crew and on full battle alert suddenly turning up in foreign waters is prima facie evidence of piracy.

I ask the nations again: if our version of events is incorrect, please supply a reasonable alternative. You may shout it out at the top of your lungs if you wish.

Like I said, Innocent until proven guilty.

A MILITARY ship, without crew and on full battle alert suddenly turning up in foreign waters gives merely the suggestion of piracy.

Your "suggestion" and our "prima facie evidence" are exactly the same thing, if only you would acknowledge it.

We state that the ship did not turn up as notified by Roycelandia, that it was taken under force of arms, that, without being specific, its technology is not that of WWII, and that while we discuss the matter, Roycelandia's engineers and scientists are working 24/7 to identify and unlock the ships military, diplomatic and technological secrets.

Why should Roycelandia want to keep the ship? Why does it not at least put it with a diplomatically neutral nation (Switzerland being an unlikely location) and resolve this matter in court, in camera, where we may prove our ownership without doubt.

If you want to take this to a court, then sure thing. Do that. I can organise a judge to be chosen

Thank you, Minister. Though one wonders why we should trust a nation which has been rabidly against us since the beginning. Your judge will be hardly objective.

I gotta go, keep checking here when I log on next

5. Innocent Unitil Proven Guilty

I am confused. My legal advisers tell me this is not a concept pertaining to international law. Perhaps you are mistaking this matter with someone who has stolen a toy boat at your local park?

OOC:

Apostles: It is NOT your ship. The ship has no identifiable previous owner, and is now the property of Roycelandia. Unless you have some decent RP history of a ship disappearing, I'm not even going to consider the ship as being yours, at any point, ever.

IC: Roycelandia is confused as to the stance taken by the Apostle. Accusing us of Piracy? In our own waters? We consider this course of action most unwist, but shall let it pass for now.

We cordially invite a limited delegation of One (1) VIP member of each nation's Military or Scientific fraternity to visit the ship in Dry Dock at Milo Harbour one week from now, and view for themselves this baffling mystery.

No Spies, Weapons, or Electronic Devices will be allowed in the docks...

The Federation Navy will send its lead historian to represent the FACS.

At Noon, Myrenican time, this international wire telegram was released that would reach all involved parties.

The Empire of Myrenica is worried about this development in your diplomatic relations and we wish to help negotiate between the parties as a neutral third party.

*For the modest sum of US 1.000.000 each from the Roycelandia and the Apostles that is. (We wouldn't do this for free you know... besides if we did, you would all be suspicious. It's just a covering fee for out diplomats who may have to spend countless hours of work.)

((At the same time two squadrons of 8 and 6 Joint strike fighters emblazoned with the flag of the Apostles and the words "By the Grace of God" left the main Myrenican airport, Port au Pair. It's destination was a covert mission, but the fighters were fully armed with the *most technological advanced weapons of the Empire.))

(4'th generation armaments... 2 mavericks each, stinger and sidewinders missiles as well as some advaned fire and forget hellfire missiles and whatever is appropriate... I need to do some research. Yeah I edited this post so the nextby Royceland doesn't make sense.)

At this stage, Roycelandia rejects your proposal of international mediation. We feel that any claim The Apostles have to the vessel is spurious at best, and no religious artefacts have been found on board.

We resent the Allegation that we engage in piracy in any form.

To this end, we are prepared to release footage from the Coastguard vessel that found the ship, to prove that it was abandoned, that we did get a tow line to it, and that it was lawfully salvaged under international maritime law.

We welcome International co-operation in this matter, but remind interested nations that the Musketeer's ownership is non-negotiable...

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

Defence Bureau HQ, Port Royal.

Commander Jack Sword reviewed the Top Secret Dossier in front of him.

"It just appeared? Out of the fog?"

"Thats what the Coast Guard reported, and we have the video footage to prove it."

"Interesting." Commander Sword looked at the report again. "Whose was it?"

"No idea, Sir. It's definitely not an Apostle Ship, though- no religious artifacts in there at all. Lots of old Magazines, lighters, weapons, personal effects, photographs- but aside from the fact they're in English, they could be anyone's. Seems to be an Allied Ship, from what we can tell"

"Hmmm. And they haven't got into the Engine Room yet?"

"Not at this stage- our technicians are still working on it. The Radio Room has been welded shut, too. We'll let you know when we find anything."

"Please do. And keep an eye on that ship... there's more to this than meets the eye."

At this stage, Roycelandia rejects your proposal of international mediation. We feel that any claim The Apostles have to the vessel is spurious at best, and no religious artefacts have been found on board.

We resent the Allegation that we engage in piracy in any form.

To this end, we are prepared to release footage from the Coastguard vessel that found the ship, to prove that it was abandoned, that we did get a tow line to it, and that it was lawfully salvaged under international maritime law.

We welcome International co-operation in this matter, but remind interested nations that the Musketeer's ownership is non-negotiable...

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

Defence Bureau HQ, Port Royal.

Commander Jack Sword reviewed the Top Secret Dossier in front of him.

"It just appeared? Out of the fog?"

"Thats what the Coast Guard reported, and we have the video footage to prove it."

"Interesting." Commander Sword looked at the report again. "Whose was it?"

"No idea, Sir. It's definitely not an Apostle Ship, though- no religious artifacts in there at all. Lots of old Magazines, lighters, weapons, personal effects, photographs- but aside from the fact they're in English, they could be anyone's. Seems to be an Allied Ship, from what we can tell"

"Hmmm. And they haven't got into the Engine Room yet?"

"Not at this stage- our technicians are still working on it. The Radio Room has been welded shut, too. We'll let you know when we find anything."

"Please do. And keep an eye on that ship... there's more to this than meets the eye."

Given the season, we can reply with a hearty "HO HO HO." Oh how you seek to deceive!

We have obtained internationally, objectively verfiable meteorogically evidence that there was no fog in that location at the time; and satellite photography reveals clear blue skies around the island for many hundreds of miles in every direction.

Further, the act of piracy was committed in international waters and the ship navigated to Roycelandia by a Roycelandia crew, after disposing of the real crew in a manner most heniously murderous.

The Empire's blatant lies are matched only by its transparent audacity. This is a case where Roycelandia has clearly stolen, and far from freed.

We, the Thocracy of the Apostles, by the grace of God, hereby declare war on the pirate nation of Roycelandia.

((Eta 4 hours of gametime the two fighter squadrons will enter your airspace at max speed for low altitude... if you attack or try to intercept them the first squadron will go in for a bomb/missile strike/run at the ship in port while the other squadron engages the interceptors...))

((At the same time two squadrons of 8 and 6 Joint strike fighters emblazoned with the flag of the Apostles and the words "By the Grace of God" left the main Myrenican airport, Port au Pair. It's destination was a covert mission, but the fighters were fully armed with the *most technological advanced weapons of the Empire.))

*nothing you don't already have (hey these are just 4'th Generation fighters)

Your Excellency, we would inform you we do not have 4th generation armaments. The quality and superiority of our military and its assets are secrets maintained by bishops of the Enlightenment Committee. We do not keep assets in any nation outside of the region of St. Assumpta of the Hanging.

It is obvious your vast exports to Roycelandia are affecting your part in this matter.

The Empire of Myrenica only exports it's military armaments to it's most cooperative and graceful neighbor Gricehaven.

We deny your atrocious accusation, but forgive you as it's Christmas time.

((Eta 4 hours of gametime the two fighter squadrons will enter your airspace at max speed for low altitude... if you attack or try to intercept them the first squadron will go in for a bomb/missile strike/run at the ship in port while the other squadron engages the interceptors...))

Your Excellency, we would advise in the strongest possible terms that if your planes attack our ship, we shall consider it an act of war. Further, we have sent coded instructions to the auto-warserver on board. The ship defend itself against aggressive acts (though why it failed earlier is a mystery, hence our overrinding need to have it returned intact.)

Recall your planes immediately.

We have received information that special forces from the Theocracy of the Apostles have taken key tactical positions in Roycelandia in preparation of war.

The Apostles have banned our journalists and fail to comment.

It is anticipated Roycelandia will issue a news release in due course.

The Empire of Myrenica only exports it's military armaments to it's most cooperative and graceful neighbor Gricehaven.

We deny your atrocious accusation, but forgive you as it's Christmas time.

We have data showing quite the opposite. In particular, a certain Ronnie "Nuclear Pistol" Vendor has been filmed in conversation with the Roycelandian Defence Minister just a few days before the Musketeer went missing. What say you?

The Federation is of the opinion that the Apostles and their allies are making this up as they go along for the express purpose of fabricating an international incident for political and military gain.

((OOC: Actually this is a covert mission Apostles. You don't know the planes are on the way yet... unless you have some very sophisticated satellite detection I don't know about. But ok you know about them. /OOC))

The fighter jet squadrons prepared to enter Roycelandian air territory, disguised as Apostles fighters.

((OOC: ETA: 2 hours. BTW: Roycelandia will they meet opposition or will your scientists on the ship be surprised?? LoL))
(((If it'll be a free run (in which all 14 fighters would attack the ship it would be the simplest if you just describe their surprise and let Apostles use his super-secret weaponry against me. If not then just write what comes up into the air to blow my fighters out of the skies if you want.))

((BTW: ...the 4'th generation Joint Strike Fighters were armed with weapons of war from the Myrenican Empire not Royceland /OOC))

(((Hey, you're the GM! ;) maybe u should tell me what to do. I'm a bit new here in these forum, I'm more used to rp with dice and rules-lawyers /OOC))

Free News Agencies
Bureaucrat
----
Myrenica wrote:
The Empire of Myrenica only exports it's military armaments to it's most cooperative and graceful neighbor Gricehaven.

We deny your atrocious accusation, but forgive you as it's Christmas time.


We have data showing quite the opposite. In particular, a certain Ronnie "Nuclear Pistol" Vendor has been filmed in conversation with the Roycelandian Defence Minister just a few days before the Musketeer went missing. What say you?
------

We do not know whom Ronnie "Nuclear Pistol" is nor do we care.
The Empire of Myrenica has never traded military hardware or anything of the sorts with either the nation of Apostles or the nation of Royceland.
Nor will we ever.

The President of Myrenica and his nation does not appreciate your attempts to frame Myrenica. Please desist.
-Yours Respectfully
The President of Myrenica

((OOC: Actually this is a covert mission Apostles. You don't know the planes are on the way yet... unless you have some very sophisticated satellite detection I don't know about. But ok you know about them. /OOC))

The fighter jet squadrons prepared to enter Roycelandian air territory, disguised as Apostles fighters.

((OOC: ETA: 2 hours. BTW: Roycelandia will they meet opposition or will your scientists on the ship be surprised?? LoL))
(((If it'll be a free run (in which all 14 fighters would attack the ship it would be the simplest if you just describe their surprise and let Apostles use his super-secret weaponry against me. If not then just write what comes up into the air to blow my fighters out of the skies if you want.))

((BTW: ...the 4'th generation Joint Strike Fighters were armed with weapons of war from the Myrenican Empire not Royceland /OOC))

(((Hey, you're the GM! ;) maybe u should tell me what to do. I'm a bit new here in these forum, I'm more used to rp with dice and rules-lawyers /OOC))

Just to side step the war at the moment, I'm entirely new to RP altogether, having no experience in this or any other medium.

Getting back to the war, just what the heck are you on? (And can I have some?) I didn't understand a word of the above.

The Federation is of the opinion that the Apostles and their allies are making this up as they go along for the express purpose of fabricating an international incident for political and military gain.

The Apostles applaud the Free News Agencies for their invetigative zeal and announce to all that we have no knowledge of Mr. Ronnie Vendor, other than a woman purporting to be his representative attempted to negotiate an arms deal with our Enlightenment Committee. She was tortured and subsequently executed. (God does not like salesmen.) During the torture session, she confessed that her armaments were of Myrenican manufacture and origin.

The Republic of Austar Union reccomend that The Apostles withdraw any declaration of war against Roycelandia. The President has delivered the following message:

"If you are listening, 10% of our forces are being readied to attack your homeland. You will withdraw all forces from the nation of Roycelandia. If you do not, you are signing a contract, giving us full permission to invade your nation. You have 24 hrs to comply."

a black ops squad has taken the ship and arrested everyone on board.
the ship belongs to the UN as a historical artifact and should be on public
display as a sort of museum, to commemorate the heroism and sacrifice
that distinguished the fleets of all sides in WWII. those that've been
arrested are currently being shipped back to their respective nation(s).
its in our best interest to maintain peace between Roycelandia and
the Austar Union, and to keep the ship in its current condition for
historical purposes.

a black ops squad has taken the ship and arrested everyone on board.
the ship belongs to the UN as a historical artifact and should be on public
display as a sort of museum, to commemorate the heroism and sacrifice
that distinguished the fleets of all sides in WWII. those that've been
arrested are currently being shipped back to their respective nation(s).
its in our best interest to maintain peace between Roycelandia and
the Austar Union, and to keep the ship in its current condition for
historical purposes.

Sorry, you have to RP the squad being sent there, approaching the ship etc. IGNORED.

IC: We will be sending Physics scientist Jackie Robertson to inspect the ship.

a black ops squad has taken the ship and arrested everyone on board.
the ship belongs to the UN as a historical artifact and should be on public
display as a sort of museum, to commemorate the heroism and sacrifice
that distinguished the fleets of all sides in WWII. those that've been
arrested are currently being shipped back to their respective nation(s).
its in our best interest to maintain peace between Roycelandia and
the Austar Union, and to keep the ship in its current condition for
historical purposes.

OOC: You cannot declare results like that... and the conflict isn't between Roycelandia and the Austar Union. They are on the same "side," as it were. Please learn to use proper spelling and punctuation and read the thread before you get involved.

1 Aircraft Carrier is being sent to Roycelandia to step up security. It will arrive in approximatly 1 NS Week (30 RL Minutes)

OOC: Apostles, your behaviour is reeking of Warmongering.

I have told you before that the ship is not yours. Come up with a decent RP claim to it, or back off.

However, if you are attempting a sort of psuedo-conspiracy of your own or have some ulterior motive for wanting the ship, then that's fine, but let me know so I can react appropriately. Right now, it just sounds like you're looking for an excuse to RP a war, and that's not what I had in mind (although I'm certainly prepared to go down that path if that's how this RP plays out.)

Incidentally, I'm fairly sure that, being in my nation and everything, I dictate the weather- so if I say that the ship was found drifting out of fog, then I'm pretty sure that's my perogative.

Progia: You're obviously new to NS, so I'm not going to bite your head off, but what you just did is called "GodModing". You can't dictate what happens as a result of your actions (ie saying a Black Ops team has boarded the ship and captured it).

You can attempt to RP the Black Ops team sneaking into Roycelandia, but the Imperial Security Bureau will probably find them and have them executed for espionage. (Not necessarily, though- depends how the RP is coming along...)

Incidentally, how does a foreign Black Ops team propose to arrest everyone on board a ship IN THEIR OWN COUNTRY?

Free News Agencies: Two things. Firstly, how can you have footage of some guy I've never heard of before in talks with the Roycelandian Defence Minister before the ship went missing, if it vanished in 1944???

Secondly, Since I RP all the major characters in Roycelandia, A little notice that you intend to do this sort of thing would be nice... Commander Jack Sword is not in the habit of meeting with dodgy international arms dealers. However, you're welcome to continue commentary etc... it's a very nice touch. And I do enjoy a good conspiracy.

Myrencia: Where exactly are you sending your fighters? You don't know where the ship is, and you run a very high risk of attacking an Imperial Roycelandian Battleship, which would lead to extremely unpleasant consequences for all concerned- especially you.

Aircraft entering Roycelandian Airspace are "pinged" by an IFF beacon- since neither you nor the Apostles would come back as "Friendlies", then you would be hailed by radio. A squadron of Spitfires has already been scrambled, armed with Depleted Uranium Slugs, Napalm Rockets, and AMRAAM missiles. No answer/unsatisfactory answer to the radio hail? Warning shot (or should I say burst?) across the nose. Still no response? Your aircraft will be engaged...

Imperial Roycelandian AA Defences include Barrage Ballons, AA Guns (also known as Flak Cannons or Ack Ack Guns), EMP Missiles, and SAM batteries. Getting a squadron of fighter jets anywhere near where you think the ship might be isn't just a matter of flying in, firing off a barrage of missiles, and getting out. You may find plenty of other surprises await you...

The ship doesn't belong to the Apostles. They can activate AutoWar Servers/DeathKill Cannons/Explosive Space Modulators/whatever all they like, the simple fact of the matter is that it won't work because THE SHIP WAS MADE IN 1943. IT VANISHED IN 1944. IT IS NOT AN APOSTLE SHIP!!! Of course, your Nation can only go with what it knows IC (in character), and if they've chosen to beleive the Apostles, then that's their right, although all the evidence is against them...

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

IC:

MUSKETEER RESEARCH LOCATION, SOMEWHERE IN ROYCELANDIA

The glow from the Blow Torch died out as the last of the Acetylene exhausted itself. "Right lads, that should do it. On three... One, Two, THREE!"

With a giant crash, the squad of Marine Engineers broke through the door into the Communications Suite. The first four through the door stood there in shock.

Before them lay a baffling array of 1940's vintage radio equipment and computer-like electronics, complete with Valves and tape reels.

One of them tripped over a welding kit left near the inside of the door.

Most of the electronics were hard to fathom- but one thing was clear. Lying on the radio operator's desk was a Tan folder.

Emblazoned on the cover was the legend "AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND ARMED COALITION- TOP SECRET EYES ONLY" and below it, in block capitals, "CHRONOSHIFT PROJECT- JANUARY 1944".

"Perhaps we should get someone from HQ to have a look at this..." one of the Corporals said...

"Where the heck are Australia and New Zealand?" asked the Sergeant.

"Not only where, but when?" the Lieutenant replied. "I studied history at Military Academy, and as far as I can tell there have never been countries of that name..."

OOC: Even if there are countries by that name in NS, they aren't the ones being referred to in this RP.

IC:
*****************************************************
CODED TRANSMISSION

TO: AUSTAR UNION
FROM: ROYCELANDIA

The Empire of Roycelandia thanks you again for your assistance in this matter, and invites 6 of your most respected scientists to an Imperial Scientific Society Formal Dinner two days hence. We look forward to your company and request an RSVP at your earliest convenience....

To: Roycelandia
From: The National Research Center

We humbly accept your invitation to the Imperial Scientific Society Formal Dinner. We will be sending the following scientists:

Prof. Jackie Robertson
Prof. Michael Leanly
Prof. Nick Ludendorf
Prof. Steve McNeeny
Prof. Assistant Peter Richards
Prof. Assistant Gary Helm

They will be arriving within 24 hrs of the dinner commencing. Once again, thankyou very much.

OOC: How would you rate my RP skills?

OOC: Pretty good, so far. Nice to see someone staying in character... This should be a good RP if everyone handles it OK.

IC:

PORT ROYAL, ROYCELANDIA.

"The Austar Union has accepted our invitation, Your Majesty" the aide said.

"Excellent. It should be a most enjoyable dinner, and they've been most co-operative during this unpleasantness with those Religious whackoes. That's why we're repaying them with a pre-Official Inspection tour. They might be able to shed some light on the matter." His Imperial Majesty King Royce I looked up from the evening newspaper.

"Yes, Your Excellency, but then we might have to share with them..."

"So? They've helped us out, we'll help them. Quid Pro Quo. Make sure their stay is as pleasant and comfortable as possible."

"Yes, Your Majesty..." The aide withdrew to make the necessary arrangements.

The Professors have been sent and will arrive in approximatly 12 hrs

http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/images/c-38-980615b.jpg

OOC: Apostles, your behaviour is reeking of Warmongering.

I have told you before that the ship is not yours. Come up with a decent RP claim to it, or back off.

However, if you are attempting a sort of psuedo-conspiracy of your own or have some ulterior motive for wanting the ship, then that's fine, but let me know so I can react appropriately. Right now, it just sounds like you're looking for an excuse to RP a war, and that's not what I had in mind (although I'm certainly prepared to go down that path if that's how this RP plays out.)

Incidentally, I'm fairly sure that, being in my nation and everything, I dictate the weather- so if I say that the ship was found drifting out of fog, then I'm pretty sure that's my perogative.

Progia: You're obviously new to NS, so I'm not going to bite your head off, but what you just did is called "GodModing". You can't dictate what happens as a result of your actions (ie saying a Black Ops team has boarded the ship and captured it).

You can attempt to RP the Black Ops team sneaking into Roycelandia, but the Imperial Security Bureau will probably find them and have them executed for espionage. (Not necessarily, though- depends how the RP is coming along...)

Incidentally, how does a foreign Black Ops team propose to arrest everyone on board a ship IN THEIR OWN COUNTRY?

Free News Agencies: Two things. Firstly, how can you have footage of some guy I've never heard of before in talks with the Roycelandian Defence Minister before the ship went missing, if it vanished in 1944???

Secondly, Since I RP all the major characters in Roycelandia, A little notice that you intend to do this sort of thing would be nice... Commander Jack Sword is not in the habit of meeting with dodgy international arms dealers. However, you're welcome to continue commentary etc... it's a very nice touch. And I do enjoy a good conspiracy.

Myrencia: Where exactly are you sending your fighters? You don't know where the ship is, and you run a very high risk of attacking an Imperial Roycelandian Battleship, which would lead to extremely unpleasant consequences for all concerned- especially you.

Aircraft entering Roycelandian Airspace are "pinged" by an IFF beacon- since neither you nor the Apostles would come back as "Friendlies", then you would be hailed by radio. A squadron of Spitfires has already been scrambled, armed with Depleted Uranium Slugs, Napalm Rockets, and AMRAAM missiles. No answer/unsatisfactory answer to the radio hail? Warning shot (or should I say burst?) across the nose. Still no response? Your aircraft will be engaged...

Imperial Roycelandian AA Defences include Barrage Ballons, AA Guns (also known as Flak Cannons or Ack Ack Guns), EMP Missiles, and SAM batteries. Getting a squadron of fighter jets anywhere near where you think the ship might be isn't just a matter of flying in, firing off a barrage of missiles, and getting out. You may find plenty of other surprises await you...

The ship doesn't belong to the Apostles. They can activate AutoWar Servers/DeathKill Cannons/Explosive Space Modulators/whatever all they like, the simple fact of the matter is that it won't work because THE SHIP WAS MADE IN 1943. IT VANISHED IN 1944. IT IS NOT AN APOSTLE SHIP!!! Of course, your Nation can only go with what it knows IC (in character), and if they've chosen to beleive the Apostles, then that's their right, although all the evidence is against them...

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

IC:

MUSKETEER RESEARCH LOCATION, SOMEWHERE IN ROYCELANDIA

The glow from the Blow Torch died out as the last of the Acetylene exhausted itself. "Right lads, that should do it. On three... One, Two, THREE!"

With a giant crash, the squad of Marine Engineers broke through the door into the Communications Suite. The first four through the door stood there in shock.

Before them lay a baffling array of 1940's vintage radio equipment and computer-like electronics, complete with Valves and tape reels.

One of them tripped over a welding kit left near the inside of the door.

Most of the electronics were hard to fathom- but one thing was clear. Lying on the radio operator's desk was a Tan folder.

Emblazoned on the cover was the legend "AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND ARMED COALITION- TOP SECRET EYES ONLY" and below it, in block capitals, "CHRONOSHIFT PROJECT- JANUARY 1944".

"Perhaps we should get someone from HQ to have a look at this..." one of the Corporals said...

"Where the heck are Australia and New Zealand?" asked the Sergeant.

"Not only where, but when?" the Lieutenant replied. "I studied history at Military Academy, and as far as I can tell there have never been countries of that name..."

OOC: Even if there are countries by that name in NS, they aren't the ones being referred to in this RP.

IC:
*****************************************************
CODED TRANSMISSION

TO: AUSTAR UNION
FROM: ROYCELANDIA

The Empire of Roycelandia thanks you again for your assistance in this matter, and invites 6 of your most respected scientists to an Imperial Scientific Society Formal Dinner two days hence. We look forward to your company and request an RSVP at your earliest convenience....

OOC: I thought I had and I thought it was developing nicely. It's obvious though you want go with the time travel bit. Your prerogative but I do have to say I thought this was a nation state (war, diplomacy, law, trade, etc.) web site, not sci-fi tosh. Or maybe I'm in the wrong place?

IC:

The Apostles have bowed to pressure from the international community and reluctantly give up their sovereign and legal title to the Musketeer. Self-protection commands have been rescinded.

[OOC: You are right. Of course I don't know where the ship is, I just assumed it was in your main port and not disguised and lotza stuff. My bad. ooc]
[OOC: As for me believing the Apostles?!? Yeah right! Lol. No really, I believe he wanted to rp that it was his. My motives for bombing your ships is not that I believe some religious fanatic and are covert of nature and not necessarily what they may seem at first. I'll assume I just sent my fighters to your main harbour then by the way. And what is an AMRAAM missile, how does it work, please? Thanx anyway.
PS. Please remember that my engineers went to lengths to imitate Apostle fighter planes. A giveaway might be though that they don't have Join Strike Fighters if I can correctly deduce that from his last statements concerning his jets but then again you don't necessarily know that. And although you may easily deduct that they are not Apostle fighters jets you will have a hard time tracing them back to Myrenica as my engineers did all that was in their power to make sure they could not be traced. My loyal pilots would rather sacrifice their lives then being interrogated. Sorry for beings so late with the reply. [ooc]

The 14 joint strike fighters ignore the warning and engage the Spitfires over naval territory (Are AMRAAM missiles a natural first choice?) If so I'd like to say my fighters are armed with it. But I don't mind playing by Ironman rules.) launcing every available missile at the Spitfires. If they start losing it they will turn tail and head towards Apostle territory.

The Republic of Austar Union reccomend that The Apostles withdraw any declaration of war against Roycelandia. The President has delivered the following message:

"If you are listening, 10% of our forces are being readied to attack your homeland. You will withdraw all forces from the nation of Roycelandia. If you do not, you are signing a contract, giving us full permission to invade your nation. You have 24 hrs to comply."

The Theocracy of the Apostles takes exception to threats of aggresive military action. You should know we have a high techology, exceptionally trained voluntary defence force perfectly capable of defending our borders to all aggressors.

We have renounced title over the Musketeer but covert special forces remain in Roycelandia pending future developments.

OOC:

Apostles: I can see several significant Miitary uses for Time Travel or Dimension Jumping technology... it's hardly "sci fi tosh", as you put it. You'd be well within protocol to try and RP spies sneaking into the area and finding out that there are reasons why Roycelandia is hiding this ship.

It's quite possible that you've got special forces in Roycelandia- the whole region is full of thousands and thousands of islands, coves, bays etc- any one of which could be a staging post for Special Forces. Of course, there are also disaffected Rebel groups on those islands too, who might mistake you for Imperial Soldiers...

Looks like you've got your war anyway- Myrenica has just attacked us disguised as you... So it's WAR!!!! :wink:

Oh the irony- getting involved in an RP war for different reasons than you intended...

Myrenica: AMRAAM stands for Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile. They're a reasonable choice for interception duties...

IC:

SOMEWHERE OFF THE COAST OF PORT ROYAL

"Jet Fighters, Inbound at 11 o'clock, Angels 20!" Green Leader called over the radio.

"Roger that!" Green Flight replied in unison.

"I'm eyeballing 14 Bandits, JSFs, Unknown IFF... Looks like they... MISSILE LAUNCH!!!! They're firing on us! Engage, Engage!!!"

"TALLY HO!!!" Greens Two and Three cried as they turned to engage the JSFs.

The skies were full of gunfire, missiles, and rockets.

Green Leader was locked by an enemy missile. He tried the Chaff. Nothing. He tried ECMs. No luck. Finally, he tried a reverse Immelman turn to try and shake the incoming AMRAAM.

No final radio message was recorded- the Spitfire flipped over and caught the missile full in the belly. There was an explosion, and the flaming wreckage of Green One hurtled towards the sea below, trailing a thick plume of black smoke.

The rest of Green Flight dived on the "Apostle" fighters, guns blazing and rockets flying.

When the chaos died down, five more of the Spitfires were down, and the remaining aircraft reported three parachutes from the stricken planes.

2 more Spitfires were damaged but still airworthy from the battle.

The Imperial Coastguard were radioed and despatched to the area to pick up survivors...

OOC: You've taken out six of my fighters- are you carrying on towards Port Royal (the main Harbour) or turning back to Apostle territory? And what losses have you taken from this little skirmish?

IC:

PORT ROYAL

The Imperial Scientfic Society Dinner was a huge success. Contacts were made, theories discussed, jokes told, and a good time was had by all.

That evening, as the function wound down, the Austar Scientists were led to a comfortable Limousine with blacked out windows and taken on a trip somewhere well outside Port Royal.

Already in the Limo were some very attractive young ladies in cocktail dresses and a rugged man about 35 years old. "Gentlemen" he said, shaking everyone's hand in turn. "I am Commander Jack Sword of the Imperial Defence Bureau. We trust that you've enjoyed your meal- we've got some more entertainment laid on for you later"- at this, one of the young ladies giggled- "but right now, we thought we'd treat you to an advance tour of the Musketeer. For security reasons, you'll have to travel in a military Land Rover, but I think you'll find the minor discomfort is worth it. Afterwards, we" -Commander Sword indicated the women- "Will meet you in the Lounge Bar of the Imperial Hotel in Port Royal. Please save any questions you may have until that time."

The Limo drew to a stop by the side of the highway, lined with Palm Trees.

The scientists were transferred to the Land Rover, and driven for another hour through darkness until they arrived at some sort of Naval Base, miles from anywhere at all.

The Scientists were given a security check, then waved through and taken to the Musketeer. The tour was thorough, but the final stop was the Communications Suite, complete with the mysterious electronics.

"Most interestingly, everything organic on the ship had vanished when we found it- all the Crew, all the meat and vegetables in the Galley and Stores, the ships's Cat, and even all the rats, mice, cockroaches, spiders, and so on." The Guide Explained.

"But we thought you'd be most interested in this..."

A single copy of the CHRONOSHIFT file was bought out and given to the Scientists to pass around. "Have a read, folks, and tell me what you think..."

*****************************************
TO: APOSTLES
FROM: ROYCELANDIA

As a result of your unprovoked aggression against our aircraft in Sovereign Airspace, we must now advise you that retaliatory action will be taken and that we are demanding reparations for the damages caused...

it is possible that the ship may have been victim of WWII Chronoshift technologies. consider the results of the philidelphia incident.
We supposed it may have shifted the time barrier in a secret military operation years ago. but then again... there might be no explanation to this... appearance.

OOC: Im pretty sure the Chrnoshift ship you speak of, was the Eledrage and was a destryoer, also, they DO know what became f that ship, as it reappaeared in the harbor 1 hour after the...inncident))

The scientists read over the documents, "Hmm, this is most interesting..."

Meanwhile, in the Austar Union...

"The Apostles requested what?!", asked the President
"They tried to bribe our scientists sir, to give information to them on The Musketeer." replied his advisor
"Draft a message to Roycelandia", ordered the President

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

From The AU
To Roycelandia

My government has recieved a message from The Apostles, asking us if our scientists are up for bribery to leek information to their nation about the Musketeer. We declined, as our scientists like to upkeep professional code. Just updating you.

_______________________________

NBC News

After news of The Apostles attacking Roycelandia reached the Austar Union, the President only gave one order:

STAY PUT FOR NOW

More News as it Comes...

NBC News

,./.,/,,

OOC:

TO: APOSTLES
FROM: ROYCELANDIA

As a result of your unprovoked aggression against our aircraft in Sovereign Airspace, we must now advise you that retaliatory action will be taken and that we are demanding reparations for the damages caused...

We have denied before that the jets are ours and believe they are of Myernican origin. You threats of war are empty words but we stand ready to meet any aggressive action on your part.


OOC: Oh come off it! I've already backed down over the Musketeer because you threw a wobbly and now you want war anyway?! Make up your mind.


IC:

Let it be known to all concerned our actions in the past were simply to put right an act of piracy which we believe was then presented as a "mystery" in order to cover the taking of our cruiser. We have not initiated any act of war but will stand firm against any aggressors. The Theocracy's military forces are on full alert and willingly "trigger-happy".

We have received confirmation from our special forces that they have e-targeted three key military locations in Roycelandia, and rebel co-operatives have successfully e-targeted the Musketeer. By God's grace, should any, repeat ANY, foreign forces attempt to cross our borders, we shall launch a significant barrage of missiles against each location, anticipating that at least one missile in each case will reach its target.

*troubles int he neughbouring country of roycelandia were quite a concern for old brittania, as war had seemingly become existant and several civillian flights had been delayed, within his office the Priminister considers his actions and state of his own antion, which was thriving, sitting down at his desk he picks up the wireless phone and speaks down the line, get me my counterpart in roycelandia*

*the phone in a roycelandian office begins to ring*

Investigative journalists from the Free News Agencies have discovered the startling news, and can confirm, that the Musketeer is a ship of 1940s origin. It appears that there are many anachronisms on board, not least of which is some very modern looking IC equipment connected to older valve based technology. Though it appears the modern "boxes" are Roycelandian investigative devices.

Fanciful though it may sound, our journalists are of the firm opinion that the ship is of some alien origin, though they have been unable to substantiate this with any firm evidence.

In related news, scientists from the Austar Union are in Roycelandia at present, though they seem to be spending more time investigating the local women-folk than the Musketeer.

From The Anti-Christ Terrorists

We have received intelligence that key elements of The Apostles defence assets have been sabotaged. The governing facists are seeking allies of "like-minded" nations.

If true, this is a critical moment in the nation's history and TACT will use all its efforts to take advantage of this.

SOMEWHERE OFF THE COAST OF PORT ROYAL

"Jet Fighters, Inbound at 11 o'clock, Angels 20!" Green Leader called over the radio.

"Roger that!" Green Flight replied in unison.

"I'm eyeballing 14 Bandits, JSFs, Unknown IFF... Looks like they... MISSILE LAUNCH!!!! They're firing on us! Engage, Engage!!!"

"TALLY HO!!!" Greens Two and Three cried as they turned to engage the JSFs.

The skies were full of gunfire, missiles, and rockets.

Green Leader was locked by an enemy missile. He tried the Chaff. Nothing. He tried ECMs. No luck. Finally, he tried a reverse Immelman turn to try and shake the incoming AMRAAM.

No final radio message was recorded- the Spitfire flipped over and caught the missile full in the belly. There was an explosion, and the flaming wreckage of Green One hurtled towards the sea below, trailing a thick plume of black smoke.

The rest of Green Flight dived on the "Apostle" fighters, guns blazing and rockets flying.

When the chaos died down, five more of the Spitfires were down, and the remaining aircraft reported three parachutes from the stricken planes.

2 more Spitfires were damaged but still airworthy from the battle.

The Imperial Coastguard were radioed and despatched to the area to pick up survivors...

OOC: You've taken out six of my fighters- are you carrying on towards Port Royal (the main Harbour) or turning back to Apostle territory? And what losses have you taken from this little skirmish?
----------------------------------
The rest of Green Flight dived on the "Apostle" fighters, guns blazing and rockets flying.

Out of the fourteen JSF two of them were quickly caught by cannon fire and multiple rockets and exploded in flames, to crash right into the sea. One of the fighters were unable to shake the incoming missiles, though it had been able to successfully use countermeasures at first and was hit full in the tail. None of the pilots ejected. It would have been out of character for Apostle-pilots or so they had been taught.

When the chaos died down, two further JSF were shot down, only one of whom parachuted out of his plane. His life being more worth to him then his orders.
The rest of the planes quickly turned tail, resistance was too stiff, they would never make it all the way. But before leaving they made a sweep over the area, raining cannon fire and hellfire missiles down over the pilots that had ejected into the sea, including their own whom was quickly turned into a burning corpse by a combined second sweep by the 9 JSF's.
Then the survivors turned their noses towards Apostle territory, though they would make sure to divert well in time before risking the chance of running into Apostle forces and head back for Port au Pair.
----
Took 5 casualties all dead, further nine include two damaged aircraft still combat worthy and one barely capable of making it home.

PS. Are the skies above Port Royal clear? Myrenican sattelites would love to take a few pictures to attempt a localisation of the ship.
Merry Christmas! (24'th is already Christmas in Norway!)

Qoute: We have denied before that the jets are ours and believe they are of Myrenican origin. You threats of war are empty words but we stand ready to meet any aggressive action on your part.

[ooc: How do you know they are Myrenican? Royceland hasn't even informed you of my covert attack upon him, or maybe he has. *confused* ooc]

IC: Myrenica denies all allegations. We only wish to mediate between the parties and believe that a war between these two nation would only cause a staggering amount of suffering for the Apostle nation. We also would like to note that we have a healthy respect for Roycelandia, something that the Apostles do not seem to have.

I apoligise for not logging on, and posting.

Royclandia, you will have to post what secret the Musketeer has. Its your ship.

BTW: Would you mind if I posted a mysterious twist to this RP? As in Bermuda Triangle like RP twist?

We have noted that the nation of The Apostles says that he does not want war. We have also noted that he continues to attack Royclandia.

Also I would like to contest that he considers us Anti-Christ nations. My nation is predominantly Christian.

Austar: Telegram me your interesting twist first, and we'll see how it goes.

Myrenica: Yes, the skies above Port Royal are clear. Forecast for the next 48 hours is light cloud, some showers later, and maybe some wind.

reports of the discovery has resparked our interest of the musketeer. we suppose that australia and new zealand tried their own experiment for radar cloaking, invisibility, or even teleportation--but ended up slipping the time barrier. even if the philidelphia experiment was a haux. we suggest your investigators to find out the history of the ship and explore the location where it was found just incase you find something, natural or supernatural. does any other evidence state the purpose of the incident. i also suggest carbon testing the ship for proof of the "removed timeline" it might have experienced.
we propose that our task force should go gaurd the harbour and the ship from potential attacks or thievery. we can take care of security at the docks.
(((sci-fi is no stranger to RPing in NS)))

The Grand Duchy of Cherry Ridge would like to but the ship for 100,000,000 bills (our currency). Please respond.
The Grand Duke of Cherry Ridge

The Grand Duchy of Cherry Ridge would like to but the ship for 100,000,000 bills (our currency). Please respond.
The Grand Duke of Cherry Ridge

for what purpose are you buying the ship?

for display at the Cherry Ridge Northern Naval base

The ship is not for sale, but we thank you for your interest nonetheless...

Carbon-14 Dating is inconclusive- owning to the fact that the metal on the ship has "fallen" through a wormhole in the time-space continuum, it hasn't actually "aged" per se.

And there are rumours at the University of Port Royal that parts have been taken from the Musketeer and experiments are proceeding into a Chronoshift Project of Roycelandia's own...

So far, the Imperial Defence Bureau isn't saying much, but one of the old 1960s vintage Air/Sea Rescue Launches hasn't been seen in the Imperial Bay naval yards for a few weeks now...

bump

50 miles of Coast of Midlonia, 1943, Battleships Musketeer & Golden Bow are in transit, Golden Bow is escourting the Musketeer, through Mildonian waters, reason for her travel unknown
From observation tape, tapes have been a requirement for Midlonian vessels since 1940
-Sir, were getting a message from the Musketeer
-Well let's here it then!
-have spotted mysterious craft, off our port bow, are prepping guns in case of attack
-musketeer we hear you, we'll keep our eyes out.
-what the hell is he on about? we can't see an....
tape hisses for aproximately 20 seconds

-WHERE THE HELL DID THEY GO?
-i don't know sir but they could have been sunk or something, that mysterious craft could have had something to do with it....
-what mysterious craft?
tape hisses again, saltwater damage
-...usketeer can you here us... Hissing
-Sir, Musketeer is off our port bow!
-WHAT?
-It guns are turned towards us sir, she's going to fire!
-BRACE FOR IMPACT!
-Sir we have pick up radio traffic!
-Golden Bow, we have spotted a mysterious craft of our port bow and will open fire if necessary
-Musketeer, we hear you, we'll keep our eyes open...
the captain froze, it was his voice
-LOAD THE GUNS, WE'LL SHOOT FIRST!
explosions are heard, transmission ends

OOC: sorry, just such a good story i had to join in :D
IC:The remains of the Golden bow were salvaged in 1943, only 4 crew members survived along with the tape, also recovered 20 years later was an aging gun, on it is written "By Gods grace", this was typical of both Midlonian and Aposteles craft, Midlonia having phasing it out in 1960, the gun is now on display in our National History Museum.

message from President Richter of Vaspian
VCTF is prepared for any emergency, it is only a phone call away if needed. If we are -- hrmm... We have had an odd rise in crime here in Vaspian recently. We have reason to believe that a terrorism cell has certain interest in the chronoshift discovery. we are looking into who they are and what's their intentions. We suggest that Roycelandia increase security around your borders and we will keep watch on all movement within the south pacific.

HRH'S governments of Midlonia and Midlania, are wondering how a nation back in the 1940's had such advanced technology....

Myrenica will be back with it's attempts of international mediation when it's done fending off the heathens from Cartoria...

Roycelandia thanks Vaspian for your concern regarding possible security leaks, and wishes to inform all concerned nations that security has been trebled around the Musketeer.

Our scientific department is unable to comment at this time regarding possible developments in Chronoshift technology.

The Imperial Defence Bureau maintains that the MTB Consul is merely in drydock for scheduled maintenance, upgrades, and repairs.

The Whereabouts of the Musketeer are being kept classified for security reasons...

And Roycelandia is interested in Midlonia's disappearing ship, although we have confirmed that the Musketeer we have is from a nation(s) that are not known to have existed at that time...

HRH's government has done some more reaserch, we found this photograph and the same day the musketeer dissappeared

http://www.npl.lib.va.us/cove/bibl/battleships/wisconsin_buck_stpaul.jpg

From left to right: pocket battleship redemption, Battleship Golden Bow, Battlecruiser musketeer

Kingdom Records show that we did indeed posses a ship by the name of Musketeer, but it appears that after 1960, when "By God's good grace" was last encarved on the side of the 4th generation musketeer (which incidently sank 50 miles off of the coast of Midlonia) no other ships have since been issued that name, unfortunaly, no people or presently known records survivie of any chronoshift tech, if we find any we will share the information with Roycelandia, as well as re-equipping our own vessels with this technology.

*fires Ignore cannon at Apostles and whichever state is being immature and trying to get their hands on MY STATES tech* :roll:

1) i have the evidence
2) i have the facts
3) Midlonia & Midlania are New Zeland, kingdom records show it to have been sometime late in the 20th century, that it's name was changed, after a nuclear war of some kind, that had split the large island in two, these were later to become the kindom and commonwealth of Midlonia and midlania respectively.....
records show a vessel Musketeer to exist in the dateline specifiyed, also the project as shown in the "tan envelope" was for the return date, Midlonia demands to be given the contents of that folder, one of the forward guns should be missing, but the edges shouldhave been smoothed off or even sealed......

BREAKTHROUGH!
we have found a anew annex that has been locked away for countless years...... inside is the necessary chronshift technology.... we are willing to share the infomation with Roycelandia and any state associated with Roycelandia

I've lost track of this RP, anyone wanna tell me whats happening? Where did Mildania and Mildonia come from?

bump

Perhaps I should clarify a few things:

The Musketeer has come from a different dimension. It has never belonged to any country in NationStates. It's part of a classified experiment in an alternate dimension similar to ours...

The point of this RP is an attempt to get the Chronoshift Technology- international espionage, diplomacy, etc.

There may be a war in it depending how things go...

i was figuring that the Apostles would return but i guess they gave up on claiming that the musketeer was their property. was there any reason why the apostles wanted a ship from out of the blue. do midlonia and midlania have any records of them?

I think The Apostles wanted technology off the Musketeer... I will post my twist in the coming days, believe me, its a real twist...

The Chairman of the State council just looked at his Naval Attache

"So a ship from the 1940s, has magically reappeared and the nation of (looks down at the stack of papers handed to him by the Senior Naval Attache) Roycelandia? And a Small, Holy nation went to war over this vessel? The Chairman, Hans von Marienholst asked with no small disbelief

"uh yes sir" the Senior Naval attache answered, feeling just as stupid as the junior naval attache felt when his superior sent him into deliver the news

"Your Freakin Kiddin me!" Where did you find this at the Weekly Gossip Section!?

"No sir, Naval intelligence picked this up"

"Fine, monitor it. Offer to send a Historical and Tech team over."

"yes sir"

"Sir, there are a lot of nations offering to help us with the Musketeer problem".

Commander Sword looked at the file.

"Excellent. Has the fake Chronoshift equipment been installed?"

"It has, Sir." The aide nodded.

"And how are our experiments coming along?"

"Nicely, Sir. We've modified the MTB Magnum and expect to run a preliminary test next week."

"Excellent. Telegram those who have offered to send assistance and inform them that their offers are accepted. And keep an eye on the Chronoshift team. I don't want any unexpected surprised before the test next week..."

"Very good, Sir." The aide bowed slightly as he withdrew...

To all concerned.

The Theocracy of the Apostles has been celebrating the birth of our Lord Jesus, and the bishops have taken advantage of the season to enjoy a period of prayer and reflection, the result of which is that a number of bishops decided to lay down their great burdens of office.

The incoming, replacement bishops re-assessed matters and are disappointed with their predecessors’ results in this matter, atop of which lay the problem with defence integrated chip technologies.

Following lengthy discussions with the Free News Agencies, we have agreed a trial period during which they may send two journalists to report on national matters, including the theft of the Musketeer.

We shall communicate with Roycelandia through diplomatic channels in order to finalise matters.

We continue to have a keen and important interest in the Musketeer but now give the benefit of doubt to Roycelandia that our interests will not be jeopardized by any Roycelandian inspections.

Recent problems with Apostle defence technology, recently reported in the press, have been resolved. Our forces are back at full capacity and remain willingly trigger happy.

All senior leaders of The Anti-Christ Terrorists (TACT) have been rounded up and executed. A number of low ranking members remain at large but we anticipate they will suffer the same results within a very short period.

Special Forces operatives remain in Roycelandia, and in touch with rebels there, pending confirmation from Roycelandia that any and all aggressive action has ceased.

Despite attempts to involve the Theocracy in the nefarious and unwarranted attack on Roycelandia, we shall assume that this has been resolved between all concerned. However, we remain vigilant and ready and shall deal with any unauthorised breach of our borders as acts of war and will deal those concerned accordingly.

Finally, the Theocracy of the Apostles maintain interest in the Musketeer and are curious to know what, if any, conclusions the Austar Union scientists managed to achieve.