NationStates Jolt Archive

To: Mauiwowee
From: Nikolaos the Great

This is Nikolaos again. How long do I have to wait for you to reply back? I have issued orders to my soldiers to kill once POW every day starting by today until you hand over Sinestra. If you will accept this offer then bring a unarmed cargo ship to Athen's port. There your POWs will be waiting and my soldiers will not hand them over until they have Sinestra. Also don't try anything foolish.
-Nikolaos, Emperor of Greece

The commander of the Island forces inspected the newly built silos and smiled as the LGM-118A Peacekeeper's were being loaded into the silos. He continued to smoke his cigar as he walked back into the headquaters of the island. He began to type a message to Strategic Missile Command of Communist Louisiana

***Secret Coded Transmission to Strategic Missile Command of CL***

The missile silos are complete and now are armed and operational. We have more than 10,000 troops now stationed on the island and we have the vast 3rd Red Fleet awaiting any orders that come from General Gaspard or Admiral Dufour. Strangely, we have not seen any resistance to our taking of the island. We expected alot more than what little to none we have seen already. I am wondering if they are planning something... I think we should have our allies begin landing their cargo planes on the island with additional supplies.

2 F-4G Advanced Wild Weasel's were on their patrol when they saw 2 odd looking things that seemed to fly in circles high above the island base. They reported the finding to the aircommand and the object was unknown. As they flew closer they realized they were a drones. One of the pilots frantically messaged the aircommand the new info and was given orders to shoot the two drones down. The F-4G's moved into fireing formation and launched two sidewinders at the drones.

The commander of the Island forces inspected the newly built silos and smiled as the LGM-118A Peacekeeper's were being loaded into the silos. He continued to smoke his cigar as he walked back into the headquaters of the island. He began to type a message to Strategic Missile Command of Communist Louisiana

***Secret Coded Transmission to Strategic Missile Command of CL***

The missile silos are complete and now are armed and operational. We have more than 10,000 troops now stationed on the island and we have the vast 3rd Red Fleet awaiting any orders that come from General Gaspard or Admiral Dufour. Strangely, we have not seen any resistance to our taking of the island. We expected alot more than what little to none we have seen already. I am wondering if they are planning something... I think we should have our allies begin landing their cargo planes on the island with additional supplies.

2 F-4G Advanced Wild Weasel's were on their patrol when they saw 2 odd looking things that seemed to fly in circles high above the island base. They reported the finding to the aircommand and the object was unknown. As they flew closer they realized they were a drones. One of the pilots frantically messaged the aircommand the new info and was given orders to shoot the two drones down. The F-4G's moved into fireing formation and launched two sidewinders at the drones.

OOC:
SHARD drone - about the size of two RC model airplanes.

Sidewinder - much bigger.

Talk about overkill.

I'll even let you have that there's not much to target on a SHARD by letting you target them with radar instead of IR.

***

IC: *BOOM!*BOOM!*

Pieces of drone fell undramaticly from the sky.

The Capros dutifully reported the two missile strikes and two explosions - both very evident on its radar.

In response, Admiral al-Din launched four more SHARD drones over an hour period.

tag for later reading

OOC: Just for clarification, I won't accept any nuclear attacks against my nation.

OOC2: My computer is broken for about a week or so, so the only time I can get online is when I'm at school. I don't have school Fri, Sat, and Sun either, so I apologize for any inconvenience when it comes to checking this RP often.

OOC: according to my 'puter you're online as I write this.

IC:
"General Ripper, I want a strongly worded, encrypted telegram sent to Empress Destra. We lost 20,000+ of our people, a carrier, 2 subs, 100 plus planes and god knows what else defending her from the invasion of Nikolaos and the greeks and stood ready to help her fight the commie insurgents. Nikoloas has 1,200 of our men as POW's too. What has she done, she abandoned Pirates Cove to Communist Louisiana and took her government into exile and let the commies take over Euroslavia. We have her sister, who is likely the leader of the commie insurgents in her land, Nikolaos is threatening to kill our POW's at the rate of 1 a day unless we hand Sinestra over to him. I need a reply from the Empress Destra NOW. Otherwise we'll have little option but to use Sinestra to save our POWs. Also, broadcast to our our allies Nikolaos' threat to murder our POW's for no reason except his pleasure and for the purpose of blackmailing us. Surely no one will stand for outright murder of POW's"

"I'm on it sire." said General Ripper as he left the room.

25 C-17 Globemaster III's fly circle slowly over the island and fly directly over it. They make a turn back towards the airstrip and begin to approach the run way letting one land one at a time on the strip. This sort of air landing continued for a good while. As the cargo planes taxied off the main runway, they begin to open there doors and troops soon began to empty out of the aircraft. Once the troops were out, the planes were quickly turned around and would take off again once the signal was all clear to do so. One of the commanding officers of the new troops walked into the island headquaters and saluted the commander of island forces. He looked at him and said

(commander of new troops)- Good day to you sir. We have some 2,550 new Red Troops on the island. Is was told to give this to you sir....

He handed the general a brown envelope. The general opened it with his knife and began to read the papers

Commander- Its a message from General Gaspard himself. He assures me that our allies are about to send more troops to help secure the island. He said by the weeks end, there will be close to twenty thousand troops stationed on the island.

The Capros dutifully relayed the comings and goings even as the four SHARDs began relaying new photography - IR, UV, telephoto, the works - back to the Vastivan fleet.

***

Diplomatic Communique to Communist Louisiana

Perhaps you could explain why your planes shot down our survey drones? Vastiva has long had permission from the owner of that island - Euroslavia - to commit topological and seismic surveys of the area.

For that matter, perhaps you would be so kind as to explain what Communist Louisianan troops are doing on Euroslavian territory?

Namaste,
Abu ben Venkmann
Vastivan Scientific Research Agency
Humble Servant of His Magnificence, the Sultan of Vastiva

We condemn all the nations which have interfered in Euroslavia's internal political affairs. These blatant acts of imperialism force us to strengthen our own isolationist policies.

- Transranvian People's Foreign Affairs Ministry

"Emperor, Mauiwowee started broadcasting to the public that we are killing a Mauiwowee POW a day."

"Don't worry much about it. We will show to the international community that his soldiers commited war crimes and by law in Greece its punished by death."


To: Mauiwowee
From: Nikolaos the Great

We have increased the killing rate to 5 POWs a day including slow torture before they die.

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

To: Communist Louisiana
From: KKE

We are the KKE (Communist Party of Greece) and we want to support your cause in spreading the red. A cargo ship full of weapons will anchor on the Euroslavian island you occupy.

TO: Vastiva

We thought they were are own. We are very sorry, but we doing some basic live fire practices, so we launched some of our own drones to do this. They were mixed up and we apologize. We must ask why they seem to only fly over our newly built airfield we built on the island. This airfield was built for Euroslavia as their new airport comrade. We also would like to point out we only have 2,000 workers on the island. Maybe your spy, I mean topography drones are screewing up.

TO: KKE
FROM: CL

We thank you for your support comrades. The Marxist empire of Communist Louisiana will accept these arms. We have some patrol boats in the area with the flag of the empire on them that will help you. Also, if possible, we can bring a helicopter near the boat depending on the size to help unload.

"Emperor, Mauiwowee started broadcasting to the public that we are killing a Mauiwowee POW a day."

"Don't worry much about it. We will show to the international community that his soldiers commited war crimes and by law in Greece its punished by death."


To: Mauiwowee
From: Nikolaos the Great

We have increased the killing rate to 5 POWs a day including slow torture before they die.

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

To: Communist Louisiana
From: KKE

We are the KKE (Communist Party of Greece) and we want to support your cause in spreading the red. A cargo ship full of weapons will anchor on the Euroslavian island you occupy.

King 'Lude II paced his office thinking about Nikolaos' response. He didn't dare give in or he'd be crucified at home by his supporters. On the other hand, if he didn't give in, he'd be crucified by his opponents. Euroslavia had cut and run, CL didn't give a shit and Vastiva was remaining neutral (not at all a bad idea). Generia, on the other hand, was having serious problems with a usurper, despite having denied air base use to Mauiwowee. This though intrigued the king. Sitting down at his computer he typed in:

Encrypted message to Nikolaos
We find your treatment of our POW's to be in violation of the unwritten rules of international war and unforgiveable. However, we also recognize your position in the matter. With that in mind we offer the following: We will turn Sinestra (the sister of Euroslavia's rightful ruler, Destra) over to Antonius III "the usurper" in the Generic Empire in exchange for our POW's. Whatever deal you cut with them is your business. All we wish is our men back safely. Let us hear your reply.
King 'Lude II,
Mauiwowee

The king thought, "that'll put the bastard on the spot, he supports one or the other of Generia's sides in their civil war, If he is on the right side, he'll benefit, if on the wrong, well, screw it."

OOC: OK, just an idea, if I'm screwing up everything, let me know and I'll delete this post. I'm going to send a TG to Generia though to see if he'll reply. Oh, and if I got the name of the usurper wrong, well sorry! I don't have that thread up and am going by a booze impaired memory.

TO: Vastiva

We thought they were are own. We are very sorry, but we doing some basic live fire practices, so we launched some of our own drones to do this. They were mixed up and we apologize. We must ask why they seem to only fly over our newly built airfield we built on the island. This airfield was built for Euroslavia as their new airport comrade. We also would like to point out we only have 2,000 workers on the island. Maybe your spy, I mean topography drones are screewing up.

TO: KKE
FROM: CL

We thank you for your support comrades. The Marxist empire of Communist Louisiana will accept these arms. We have some patrol boats in the area with the flag of the empire on them that will help you. Also, if possible, we can bring a helicopter near the boat depending on the size to help unload.


(excerpted from VNN channel 722 evening broadcast)

...for a grand total of fifteen hundred. Well done!

In international news, a Vastivan scientific fleet gained these photos from several of its seismological study drones in operation over Euroslavian airspace.

(lots of still photos and video of Communist Louisianan planes, tanks, troops, silos, in motion, being built, bivouacing, landing, practicing, etc.)

According to official word from Communist Louisiana, what you are seeing here is "two thousand workers", apparently hard at work creating missile silos, and driving tanks rather then the more efficient bulldozers while they are building a new Euroslavian airport on an island no one uses which is not connected to the mainland.

Full story and all video is available on our website. Most likely it will be available on the news websites of several other countries, as many have requested copies of our video. VNN is also in compliance with UN resolutions, and we have forwarded a full copy to their offices.

In other news, Praetoria continues...

The commander laughed at the message that was sent. He walked out side and gave a thumbs up to the 6 TRIDON Air Defence Gun System's. They began to fire their AA-Machine Guns into the air at the multiple drones flying overhead

King 'Lude II paced his office thinking about Nikolaos' response. He didn't dare give in or he'd be crucified at home by his supporters. On the other hand, if he didn't give in, he'd be crucified by his opponents. Euroslavia had cut and run, CL didn't give a shit and Vastiva was remaining neutral (not at all a bad idea). Generia, on the other hand, was having serious problems with a usurper, despite having denied air base use to Mauiwowee. This though intrigued the king. Sitting down at his computer he typed in:

Encrypted message to Nikolaos
We find your treatment of our POW's to be in violation of the unwritten rules of international war and unforgiveable. However, we also recognize your position in the matter. With that in mind we offer the following: We will turn Sinestra (the sister of Euroslavia's rightful ruler, Destra) over to Antonius III "the usurper" in the Generic Empire in exchange for our POW's. Whatever deal you cut with them is your business. All we wish is our men back safely. Let us hear your reply.
King 'Lude II,
Mauiwowee

The king thought, "that'll put the bastard on the spot, he supports one or the other of Generia's sides in their civil war, If he is on the right side, he'll benefit, if on the wrong, well, screw it."

OOC: OK, just an idea, if I'm screwing up everything, let me know and I'll delete this post. I'm going to send a TG to Generia though to see if he'll reply. Oh, and if I got the name of the usurper wrong, well sorry! I don't have that thread up and am going by a booze impaired memory.

TO: Mauiwowee
FROM: Nikolaos the Great

I disagree. You send Sinestra to Greece not to Generia. Each day you wait 5 Mauiwowee POWs die.

encrypting...

transmitting...[/i]

Official Imperial Communique

To: Nikalaos The Great High Leadership
From: Chancellor Dmitri Rubellai

I urge you to accept Mauiwowee's deal. A transfer of Sinistra into Imperial custody would certainly benefit you. Perhaps we do not have the intention of holding onto her permanently. Certainly custody of this woman is worth more than a few POWs?

Chancellor Dmitri Rubellai,
Appointed Chancellor of the Imperial Congress,
Loyal Servant to Emperor Alexei II

encrypting...

transmitting...[/i]

Official Imperial Communique

To: Nikalaos The Great High Leadership
From: Chancellor Dmitri Rubellai

I urge you to accept Mauiwowee's deal. A transfer of Sinistra into Imperial custody would certainly benefit you. Perhaps we do not have the intention of holding onto her permanently. Certainly custody of this woman is worth more than a few POWs?

Chancellor Dmitri Rubellai,
Appointed Chancellor of the Imperial Congress,
Loyal Servant to Emperor Alexei II

To: Chancellor Dmitri Rubellai
From: Nikolaos the Great

Alright then but once she is transfered to Generia I want her to be sent to Greece.

To: Chancellor Dmitri Rubellai
From: Nikolaos the Great

Alright then but once she is transfered to Generia I want her to be sent to Greece.

encrypting...

transmitting...

Official Imperial Communique

To: NTG High Leadership
From: Chancellor Dmitri Rubellai

Of course this is how it shall be. She shall be delivered into your hands the moment she is delivered into ours. Tell no one of our plans.

Chancellor Dmitri Rubellai,
Appointed Chancellor of the Imperial Congress,
Loyal Servant to Emperor Alexei II

OOC: Nothing like wanking up a nuclear silo over such a small period eh? Nevermind the fact that nuclear weapons have no place in this plot.

OOC: Nothing like wanking up a nuclear silo over such a small period eh? Nevermind the fact that nuclear weapons have no place in this plot.

OOC There is no way the silos work after a day of construction. Even if you could manage to dig them out, the concrete would still be wet. So he's got holes in the ground. If missiles were put there, they're permafixed to the silo.

I mean really - international opinion means little to him, even though his trade and "nations honor" would be warped badly. His "secret base" has been completely exposed, but... no real reaction. *shrugs* How you play exposes who you are.

OOC: Trust me, it's an improvement on some of the previous stuff I've seen and I've made a point of keeping quiet, but there is no way on Earth I'm going to accept a fortified structure being built so quickly... we've hardly even RPed a month and it takes a long time to build such things, often more then a year. The whole situation is stupid... but meh, simple solution really; if he can't play reasonable then I won't bother with him at all. No point beating around the bush on this one.

To: Chancellor Dmitri Rubellai
From: Nikolaos the Great

Alright then but once she is transfered to Generia I want her to be sent to Greece.


OOC: all these are secret communiques so some one needs to let me know that if I give Sinestra to the "new" ruler of Generia, I'll get my POW's back and tell me how the exchange is to be made. Also, Nikoloas, do you in fact claim to have killed any? Thanks.

To: Mauiwowee
From: Nikolaos the Great

You will send Sinestra to Generia. Once we are confirmed Generian officials have her you may send a unarmed cargo ship to Athen's port to pick up your POWs. There are 50 already dead.

While Communist Lousianaian troops masquered around the island in full force, Sarctic troops had kept themselves as the freed prisoners, rag tag into groups and only coming out for supplies and arms. The beginnings of the tunnels had begun to take some shape. A cluster of command tunnels were nearing completion, and the Barracks cluster was getting under way. Regular communiques short waved to Lenin's Glory and the 2nd fleet hiding out near the mouth of the Iberian Pennisula.

The time for to free the people was coming soon. And in no way would anyone deny them that freedom.

While Communist Lousianaian troops masquered around the island in full force, Sarctic troops had kept themselves as the freed prisoners, rag tag into groups and only coming out for supplies and arms. The beginnings of the tunnels had begun to take some shape. A cluster of command tunnels were nearing completion, and the Barracks cluster was getting under way. Regular communiques short waved to Lenin's Glory and the 2nd fleet hiding out near the mouth of the Iberian Pennisula.

The time for to free the people was coming soon. And in no way would anyone deny them that freedom.

OOC: If you'll go back and read one of my earlier posts, I captured Sinestra in a group of tunnels and there was a full command post already set up (though we did shoot up a bunch of the equipment) Also, her people that ran the show there are floating around on the island somewhere as well.

To: Mauiwowee
From: Nikolaos the Great

You will send Sinestra to Generia. Once we are confirmed Generian officials have her you may send a unarmed cargo ship to Athen's port to pick up your POWs. There are 50 already dead.

The sub surfaced about 150 yards off the port bow of the Generia ship. A small life raft was quickly inflated on the deck of the sub. Watching through binoculars, the Captain of the Generian ship saw a woman, in handcuffs, placed into the life raft and the raft was pushed off into the water. Slowly, so as to not drag the life raft in a wake or sink it with an undertow, the sub pulled away and submerged. Meanwhile, the woman on the life raft could be heard shouting at the Generian ship: "Goddamn it! I'm the sister of the the Empress. Come get me and get me out of these fucking cuffs! I command you!"

"Gee, she's not a happy camper, is she?" said the captian of the Generian ship to his XO, smiling slightly. "Oh well, send a launch to pick her up and notify Nikolaos that the Mauiwoweeans have delivered Sinestra as promised."

At the port of Athens, an unarmed troop transport ship awaited docking instructions.

In the palace in Buddsville, King 'Lude pondered his next move.

"Commander we just got a message from Generia saying that Sinestra is being transported to Athens as we speak."

"Excellent. Tell the soldiers to get those POWs on that transport ship and make sure it leaves our territorial waters."

"Yes commander."

The soldiers started pushing the POWs on the boat. Some other soldiers carried coffins that contained the bodies of the dead POWs. The death toll reached to 50 deaths.

"Admiral on deck!"
"At ease. Captain. How are the plans on Operation Fragrant Blossom going?"
"Not badly at all, Admiral. As you can see, the additional fleets are coming into position. And Gurgi sends his love."
This got a chuckles. "Good. Send back that I'll be disappointed if I'm not invited to his birthday this year."
"Yes, Admiral!"
"Set up on the points, two apart. And as long as they're going to keep sending us telemetry, keep gathering it."
"Yes, Admiral!"
"Very well. Inform me when all is in preparedness."
"Aye-aye, sir!"

OOC: Computer should be fixed tonight or tomorrow, so I'll finally be able to make an IC response. Sorry for not doing so earlier...

OOC: I never said I had Sinestra. It can only be assumed it was of her own designs that we hadn't discovered. Besides that, shooting up some equipment wouldn't destroy a whole tunnel.

OOC: I never said I had Sinestra. It can only be assumed it was of her own designs that we hadn't discovered. Besides that, shooting up some equipment wouldn't destroy a whole tunnel.

OOC: you misunderstood, we got Sinestra. and yes, we did not destroy the whole tunnel system. I was just letting you know as you create your tunnel system you should find a nice one already in place with a command center already set up that is in need of only some repairs and replacements to the equipment to be operational. i.e. I was trying to let you know you can save NS time in setting up your operations, what you need is basically already there, it just needs some RP on the repairs and new occupants.

The 4th fleet began its withdrawl from Euroslavia, headed towards shore leave and less dangerous positions. Within a few hours, most of the fleets elements were far beyond range of the Communist Louisianan fleets ability to strike.

It was about this time the following message was sent.

To : Communist Louisianan Fleet occupying Euroslavian Land

Sir,

As a member of NATO currently supporting another member of NATO, it behooves us to inform you you are currently in occupation of land which is not your own by any stretch of the imagination.

As such is the case, it is our solemn duty to request and require you give up all claims to this bit of real estate and retire to the nearest parallel dimension...

And at this moment, the cruise missiles began to strike.

***
OOC Discussion.

Sortie #1 (all strikes at the same time)
*360 AntiAircraft missiles (SM-2MR) allocated to airborne Wild Weasels (which is 24 missiles per plane)

*360 cruise missiles allocated to destroy AA defenses within a 45 degree arc.

*8400 cruise missiles fired at Communist Louisianan fleet, all flying at low altitude (seaskimming) then performing TankBuster strikes (up and strike from above) when at close range.

Sortie #2 (all strikes at the same time, +2 minutes)
*2400 cruise missiles (of which 500 are ACRATHERM vaporous thermite explosives) strike through the now-undefended arc to destroy
- airfield
- bunkers
- troop positions
- barracks (ACRATHERM)
- supply dumps (ACRATHERM)
- missile silos
- Tanks and IFVs (ACRATHERM)
- all other constructions

*5800 cruise missiles (of which 500 are ACRATHERM and aimed at carriers) attack the remnants of the Communist Louisian fleet.

This attack is launched from the four wolfpack fleets on site (W-2, -3, -4, and -5) by the Slinger guided missile submarines, each firing four antiaircraft missiles and 212 cruise missiles (everything they have). Once empty, each Slinger performs an angled crash dive and departs the area completely once under the thermal layer. Course towards IDF.

Clockwise, they are at 2, 5, 8, and 11 positions around the CL fleet.

Thirty minutes after the second sortie, the Pierpont attack submarines advance and begin torpedo spreads towards surviving ships (if any).

Four hours after that, Vastivan 4th and 5th Fleets (minus support ships) arrive from their long arc, advancing on any remaining ships from directly southward. They will be in communication with any submarines on site.

Ball is in your court, CL.

I will mention here that ACRATHERM is vaporous thermite and not white phosphorus. As such, it burns at 2600 degrees C, will eat through metal, is immune to water and is tacky (you can't wash it off). A hit on a ships deck will cause pitting and warping at the very least, and large holes at the most.

The armies of Euroslavia had just defeated the hoplites of Greece, and have even killed the General Achilles. Morale was soaring. Unfortunately though, events in the mainland of Euroslavia changed that...

The inefficiencies of the intelligence and militaries of Euroslavia lost them Valua and Nasrad, but more recently, the city of Arcadia, despite a massive amount of support from allied nations, would fall within the next few weeks. Support for the Communist cause was rising faster than anyone had predicted. Millions of volunteers and supporters had poured into Euroslavia to aid the underdog in the war against the legitimate government. It seemed as if the support would never end. Soldiers of Euroslavia seen how bad the war had become, and thousands deserted the Loyalist cause, in order to save their own petty lives. Arcadia was where majority of the Loyalist troops were stationed. It was unknown exactly who was aiding the Communist troops, but the Empress suspected that the 'Spread the Red" Alliance had something to do with it.

A few days ago, the Empress and high members of the government decided that it would be suicide to stay in such a volatile environment and held secret discussions with the leaders of Vastiva, to extract them from Arcadia, leaving the nation for the Communists...for now, that is. It was a tough decision to leave the nation behind, but it must be done, in order to save Euroslavia from the horrors of the USCB, in time.

The Vastivan military extracted the Empress and its high ranking officers and ministers and transported them back into safety, declaring themselves a 'government in exile.'

This would forever be known as the biggest military/intelligence blunder in Euroslavic History. Communists were then given leadership of the land. The leader, recently named the Comrade of Euroslavia, Patrick Maloney, has named Pyrynn as the new capital of Euroslavia, because of its geographic location and superiority in case of an invasion. Word spread like wildfire across Euroslavia, that it was now a Communist nation. The armies currently fighting NtG were informed of the fact. General Celes was pleased though. She was able to convince everyone to continue fighting into NtG territory, despite the regime change, and rumor has it that the Communist government had worked a deal out with the warring General before the Revolution that she would convince everyone to fight under the Communist banner once the Revolution took place. This could not be confirmed however.

A counterattack would be launched into NtG's border, as well as a 2nd wave of missiles.

This time, it was decided to launch an overwhelming amount of missiles, very much considered overkill, against the failed invaders. Approximately 1,800 cruise missiles were fired into NtG, mostly at major cities, suspected army camps, missile production factories, artillery factories, and other places across the nation. They needed to make sure that the entire nation was defeated, morale-wise, before the final invasion happened.

OCC: First off, alot of the main battleships and carriers were outside Euroslavian waters so you attacked my fleet which was doing NOTHING ILLEGAL so I could take this as an act of war moron. I think you better rewrite the part about the attacking of the Red Fleet b/c remember, I do have SLBM's in the area and will be more than happy to attack your nations homeland.

I really dont care about the silos or the troops, there wasnt many of them so I would rp them dying though.

Aristotle Headquarters, Athens

The operator was sleeping on his chair when all of sudden a noise from the computers woke him up.

INCOMING MISSILES!

"Holy shit!"

"What is it?" yelled the commander across the operating room.

"Those commie bastards launched 1,800 cruise missiles at us!"

"Jesus Christ! No time to speak launch the counter missiles immediatly lets hope the Aristotle System will be able to shoot them down before they hit there targets."

Operators in the room went straight to work to get the satellites to target the missiles.

"All sattelites and radars are targetting sir."

"3,000 missiles have been launched to counter the threat." another operator replied.

"God damnit! That won't be enough look at the speed there coming toward us we will probably be able to defend southern Greece but Hell will be loosed upon northern Greece, Albania and FYROM."

"All cities have been informed about this. The old weaponms factories that aren't underground and that they are still operating have been ordered to stop immediatly and evacuate the weapons they made."

"Good job. That gives me some hope. They should have known a missile attack is useless against us. I will go and inform the Emperor now."

New Athens Airport, Athens

"We will take Sinestra from here." replied a Greek soldier.

"No problem. We will fly back to Generia now."

"Have a safe flight because I heard those damn Euroslavian bastards launchged missiles at us."

The Greek soldiers saluted the Generian soldier.

They took Sinestra outside of the airport where a military truck waited.

"Damn you Greeks let go of me!" yelled Sinestra

"Ah shut up! You better not be yelling all the way to the Imperial Palace." replied back the soldier.

They pushed her in the truck and drove to the Imperial Palace. Once they reached the Imperial Palace the soldiers took Sinestra in and waited outside of the Emperor's office.

"I am sorry but the Emperor is away right now but he said that you should stay here and make sure Sinestra dosn't escape." replied a the guard that guarded the Emperor's office.

"Alright." and he then turned to Sinestra. "Now you sit in that chair and don't even say a word if you know whats good for you."

Having been informed about the situation brewing between Vastiva and Communist Louisiana, the Iuthian Diplomatic Corps took interest in the situation which they had previously been ignoring due to concerns in Euroslavia's mainland.

Currently the Iuthia Peace Keepers and attached Black Vipers were pulling out of the nation, with the problems brewing and the Euroslavian government now in excile it wouldn't be safe for them, even if they were just trying to keep the peace. However, as they pulled back there was a communication left for the new leaders of the nation:

While Iuthia was a friend of the old Euroslavian government we would like to note that we do not seek war with the leaders of your "Communist Euroslavia".

It will take us time to accept your leadership as legitimately being in charge of the former Euroslavian territories, we will respect the peace we have and will not act against you. Our interests are in the peace and they continue to be such...

However, we also concider the Vastiva has not over stepped their bounderies in defending a nation which was formally it's ally and as such we are prepared to protect their main land from Communist Louisiana aggression, we would like to stop any aggression we can through peaceful communication but we are prepared to defend this nation from them should it be required, if you can help calm their anger we would be thankful and will concider your governments legitimacy again... if you truelly follow the ideals of communism you will want the best for the peoples who do not want another war.

thanks,

Foriegn Minister Mick Lakely, Iuthian Diplomatic Corps


The message was a hopeful attempt to stop any more violence, though it would be rather limited in it's power to convince the leaders of the new regime. Given the latest developments, Iuthia could no longer ignore Vastiva's and Communist Louisiana's part in this mess. An attack had taken place against Communist Louisiana, one which Iuthia concidered to be a ligitimate one given the timing and situation.

Whatever the case it was time to bring in the serious desicions. The already mobilised Iuthian navy were making their way to Vastiva's waters in order to bolster their defences against a possible counter attack... the message would be clear: Iuthia doesn't want them to be attacked.

It would take some time for the fleets to arrive and they were not much in themselves, with some transports, carriers, logistics and escorts, the fleet wouldn't be much help in themselves, but more was being mobilised in preparation to further back up the fact that Iuthia wanted this nation to be secure from agression. With the Iuthia military backing it would be a more dangerous target and more importantly, Iuthia seeked to resolve the situation with words first.


A message had been prepared and now sent to both Vastiva and Communist Louisiana, the intention was clear: To stop the violence.

To: Respective Leaders of Vastiva and Communist Louisiana
Subject: A Peaceful End to Aggression
Message:

While this may seem like something of a joke for the time being, given the latest circumstances between your nations; Iuthia would like to open up the possibilities of resolving our differences diplomatically before then more damage is done to our reputations.

As it stands we have a situation where my former ally, Euroslavia, as been overrun with a communist rebellion, one which Communist Louisiana here supports and now will most likely seek to protect from foriegn aggression. The fact that they built a military facility on a near by island belonging to the Euroslavians suggests that they had already sought to do this before the communist rebellion had suceeded... something which isn't entirely legitimate in itself but will no doubt be overlooked given the regime change.

Before the regime change however, barely before I may add, the Vastivan uncovered this facility and then after a brief exchange of words with the Louisianans decided to take it upon themselves to remove this facility which was a threat to their ally's (Euroslavia) nation. This was a legitimate action which will now most likely be overlooked by the fact the regime has changed.

What we are left with is an akward situation which could very well end in war... as you both undoubtably know by this time. However this is not something I really want anyone to be concidering at this point.

Communist Louisiana's illegal military facility has been compromised (assumed destroyed) and they would like revenge. However what good would that do when the rebellion has won and now there is an entire nation without a proper command structure... it's still at war with people attacking in the south and they are now Communist as the Louisianans wanted...

Going to war will mean that NATO will have to support their ally, possibly draining or seriously damaging the CL military and effectively leaving Euroslavia open... what would be more advisable in this situation is to help this new government and simply truce with the Vastivans who will have to pull out now anyways due to the fact the nation they are outside may very well not want them anymore.

So instead of loosing forces fighting a war against both the Vastivans and Iuthians, who you will notice are moving to defend Vastiva, you can secure the victory in Euroslavia in the knowledge that the Communists are in charge.

Vastiva, you don't want a war with this nation and I would rather not have to spend resources protecting your nation. If Communist Louisiana agrees to this we will pull out and leave... no losses are needed here.

I should note that while this is open to debate, there is a limit on what can be changed... we will leave quitely but I doubt they will agree to any non-aggression pact.

So what say you?

Foriegn Minister Mick Lakely, Iuthian Diplomatic Corps

(bump for edit)

OOC: I'm going out of town on business for a week and my ability to log on is going to be limited so I'm going to pull out of this thread for now. I'll probably work up an RP on the murder of my POW's by NtG later. Thanks, I enjoyed it though. I needed to lose a good naval battle. :cool:

OCC: First off, alot of the main battleships and carriers were outside Euroslavian waters so you attacked my fleet which was doing NOTHING ILLEGAL so I could take this as an act of war moron. I think you better rewrite the part about the attacking of the Red Fleet b/c remember, I do have SLBM's in the area and will be more than happy to attack your nations homeland.

I really dont care about the silos or the troops, there wasnt many of them so I would rp them dying though.

OOC: Well, here's the problem. In the first place, calling me (the player) a "moron" is flaming. Pure and simple. Don't.

Secondly, you (Communist Louisiana) were violating another nation. The fleet was in support of an illegal occupation of Euroslavian land. Hence, I destroyed your fleet and your ground troops.

Third, you have no SLBMs in the area, you have huge holes. They were all targeted for destruction. Reread the post.

Fourth, YOU are the one declaring war. That was evident by your invasion of Euroslavian land AND by your destroying Vastivan property. So no dancing around with the "I wernt doin nuttin" bs.

Fifth, if you're going to attempt to "glass" my nation, well and good. A nuclear strike on you from NATO should be fun to watch. MAD doctrine - read up on it. A nuclear counterstrike would be completely unrealistic and not a little juvenile. You lost a fleet, you lost a "secret base". You got suckered, you got destroyed.

Sixth - and most importantly - I'm a very long time RP'er and I take my lumps. In thirty-five years of doing this, I haven't done "do overs" since long before the first decade closed. So if you want to declare war on me because you got a black eye, so be it. It was my choice to hit the big red button and sink your fleet and destroy your base.

It is now your choice of how to react. You can take the black eye and accept the victory in Euroslavia - the regime changed. Or you can call for a war, which will leave you in tatters. Probably me too, but realistically I knew that before I blew all your ships into shrapnel.

Personally, I'm up for the Iuthian peace doctrine, and not because I'm "afraid" of you. Its because it moves the story along. If at some future point you feel the need to get revenge - go for it. Just - and I ask this from player to player - be realistic about it. I've got dozens of trade fleets out there. There are lots of places I'm involved in. What is a fleet worth?

So, I again leave the ball in your court. I fired and I will not take that back.

A few days ago, the Empress and high members of the government decided that it would be suicide to stay in such a volatile environment and held secret discussions with the leaders of Vastiva, to extract them from Arcadia, leaving the nation for the Communists...for now, that is. It was a tough decision to leave the nation behind, but it must be done, in order to save Euroslavia from the horrors of the USCB, in time.

The Vastivan military extracted the Empress and its high ranking officers and ministers and transported them back into safety, declaring themselves a 'government in exile.'

This would forever be known as the biggest military/intelligence blunder in Euroslavic History. Communists were then given leadership of the land. The leader, recently named the Comrade of Euroslavia, Patrick Maloney, has named Pyrynn as the new capital of Euroslavia, because of its geographic location and superiority in case of an invasion. Word spread like wildfire across Euroslavia, that it was now a Communist nation. The armies currently fighting NtG were informed of the fact. General Celes was pleased though. She was able to convince everyone to continue fighting into NtG territory, despite the regime change, and rumor has it that the Communist government had worked a deal out with the warring General before the Revolution that she would convince everyone to fight under the Communist banner once the Revolution took place. This could not be confirmed however.

A counterattack would be launched into NtG's border, as well as a 2nd wave of missiles.

This time, it was decided to launch an overwhelming amount of missiles, very much considered overkill, against the failed invaders. Approximately 1,800 cruise missiles were fired into NtG, mostly at major cities, suspected army camps, missile production factories, artillery factories, and other places across the nation. They needed to make sure that the entire nation was defeated, morale-wise, before the final invasion happened.

The Vastivan MASH units did the actual extraction, flying them - along with all the medical equipment and personnel, along with loyalist wounded - first into IDF, where the 4th and 5th fleet had retired after their actions. The wolf packs had rearmed, regrouped, and were headed to "cap Gibraltar", in case of another fleet appearing.

Still, it was galling to Admiral Mesfin al-Din. She had won the battle, and lost the war.

To: Respective Leaders of Vastiva and Communist Louisiana
Subject: A Peaceful End to Aggression
Message:

While this may seem like something of a joke for the time being, given the latest circumstances between your nations; Iuthia would like to open up the possibilities of resolving our differences diplomatically before then more damage is done to our reputations.

As it stands we have a situation where my former ally, Euroslavia, as been overrun with a communist rebellion, one which Communist Louisiana here supports and now will most likely seek to protect from foriegn aggression. The fact that they built a military facility on a near by island belonging to the Euroslavians suggests that they had already sought to do this before the communist rebellion had suceeded... something which isn't entirely legitimate in itself but will no doubt be overlooked given the regime change.

Before the regime change however, barely before I may add, the Vastivan uncovered this facility and then after a brief exchange of words with the Louisianans decided to take it upon themselves to remove this facility which was a threat to their ally's (Euroslavia) nation. This was a legitimate action which will now most likely be overlooked by the fact the regime has changed.

What we are left with is an akward situation which could very well end in war... as you both undoubtably know by this time. However this is not something I really want anyone to be concidering at this point.

Communist Louisiana's illegal military facility has been compromised (assumed destroyed) and they would like revenge. However what good would that do when the rebellion has won and now there is an entire nation without a proper command structure... it's still at war with people attacking in the south and they are now Communist as the Louisianans wanted...

Going to war will mean that NATO will have to support their ally, possibly draining or seriously damaging the CL military and effectively leaving Euroslavia open... what would be more advisable in this situation is to help this new government and simply truce with the Vastivans who will have to pull out now anyways due to the fact the nation they are outside may very well not want them anymore.

So instead of loosing forces fighting a war against both the Vastivans and Iuthians, who you will notice are moving to defend Vastiva, you can secure the victory in Euroslavia in the knowledge that the Communists are in charge.

Vastiva, you don't want a war with this nation and I would rather not have to spend resources protecting your nation. If Communist Louisiana agrees to this we will pull out and leave... no losses are needed here.

I should note that while this is open to debate, there is a limit on what can be changed... we will leave quitely but I doubt they will agree to any non-aggression pact.

So what say you?

Foriegn Minister Mick Lakely, Iuthian Diplomatic Corps


Diplomatic Reply

It is unfortunate that Vastiva can do nothing to alter the tide of change in Euroslavia. We have truly "won the battle and lost the war", much to our sorrow.

As such, all our forces have been withdrawn from the theater.

As such, a truce for the time being is acceptable. We have no interest in the affairs of Communist Louisiana, and will not pursue hostilities of any sort. We will, however, have our homeland defenses on alert for the time being. As ships from that nation have never been in Vastivan territorial waters, we do not expect them there, and will treat them as hostile if they show up.

Our sorrows, our grief, as such we depart.

General Riva Sola al-Din
Commander
Vastivan Armed Services
Humble Servant of His Magnificence, the Sultan of Vastiva

OOC: Wow, fast turn of events there. Guess StR is moving in. I'll try not to god mod anythign that transpires, but I apologize if any moods slip in by accident.

With reliable information that the People's rebellion on the mainland had finally won out with a retreating exiled government, disguised Sarctic troops finally shed their masquerede. However, before beginning to mobilize and surface from their underground network, a very large strike began on the island. For the course of hours, the tunnels and island itself were pounded to Timbuktu. A lot of the surface structures and high up tunnels were destroyed or collapsed, leaving many entrances blocked. However, after a while, the strikes died down and finally the Sarctic forces were able to move up for "fresh air".

With quick estimates, approx. 1,500 Sarctic troops could be deployed airbourne. The remaining would pick up the pieces, secure the island and await the Lenin's Glory and her fleet before moving in to total defense stature. Within an hour, a smal portion of the now demolished CL airfield was cleared and the few remaining AL-15 cargo lifters shakily wheeled out to take off. Within minutes, an escort of 6 MiG 29k Fulcrums flew into rank with the air convoy.

Within an hour, the planes were coming down to a bumpy landing in Pyrynn, the new capital of Communist Euroslavia. They were met with cheers, but had to stay away from deploying, due to the fact that they had needed word from the interim Communist leader, Patrick Malooney. While the troops had to wait, more AL-15s with supplies and humanitarian aid were flown in, and trucks were sent with the supplies to various cities who got pounded a little too much during the overthrow.

Within 5 hours, President Onsorn had been informed of the final conclusion to the situation. Though the news had brought a smile to his face, he knew it wouldn't last. The goverment in exile would find a way to piece some countries together and take the country back. The only thing they could really rely on were quick elections, taking effect of so many people flustered in the moment of freedom and rebellion. Patrick Malooney would most likely be elected, but that was fine. All that mattered now was getting some government in place.

OCC: You are right, I dont have nuclear silos, but you must not know what SLBM stand for. SLBM stands for SUBMARINE Launched Balistic Missile. Just because you destroyed the silos on the island does not mean that the SLBM's were destroyed. Think about it.

Next off, Communist Louisiana was supporting a group that seems to be in control of Euroslavia. So this would mean that a majority of the Euroslavian citizens wanted communism. I geuss this means you were breaking laws also since you were trying to help the last ditch efforts of the corrupt X-Euroslavian government.

Also, I dont give a damn about NATO and who is in it. Thats why I stand up for so many nations they try to police. The funny thing is everytime I do stand up to NATO, I end up looking like the "good-guy" and it gives me more allies who are willing to do anything to support me as I support them in return. So I will say this to all NATO nations "fuck off". I dont care if you are in any of the alliances I am in, because I really dont care. NATO is a corrupt police dictatorship of an alliance and I would pay 10 trillion (NS)dollars to the nation who would destroy it.

End the end though, who ended up winning Euroslavia? Correct me if I am wrong, but isnt the Red Banner flying over the major cities of Euroslavia? I will always support communist and in the end, as father Marx said, communism is enivitable(sp?).
_______________________________________________________________

TO: Communist Euroslavia
FROM: Communist Louisiana

We have seemed to lost the airbase and a majority of the 3rd Red Fleet. Right now as we speak we are in the process of building and buying more stronger and better naval ships for future possible conflicts.

If you would like, we could bring in a coupple thousand troops to help quell any resistance left by the old government. Do not hesitate to ask us for assistance and you have a new allie that will stand and fight along side of you. We have also accepted and look forward to exchanging embassies with your nation.

OOC:

OCC: You are right, I dont have nuclear silos, but you must not know what SLBM stand for. SLBM stands for SUBMARINE Launched Balistic Missile. Just because you destroyed the silos on the island does not mean that the SLBM's were destroyed. Think about it.

Well, after coffee, I do remember. My bad, mea culpa.


Next off, Communist Louisiana was supporting a group that seems to be in control of Euroslavia. So this would mean that a majority of the Euroslavian citizens wanted communism. I geuss this means you were breaking laws also since you were trying to help the last ditch efforts of the corrupt X-Euroslavian government.

This is a quibble. At the time of the launch, it was in support of the current government.

Also, I dont give a damn about NATO and who is in it. Thats why I stand up for so many nations they try to police. The funny thing is everytime I do stand up to NATO, I end up looking like the "good-guy" and it gives me more allies who are willing to do anything to support me as I support them in return. So I will say this to all NATO nations "fuck off". I dont care if you are in any of the alliances I am in, because I really dont care. NATO is a corrupt police dictatorship of an alliance and I would pay 10 trillion (NS)dollars to the nation who would destroy it.

Very good game position. And consistant, I'll give you that.

Though I would rather like to know how NATO is a "corrupt police dictatorship". Haven't seen that or the "warmonger" charge ever proven.



End the end though, who ended up winning Euroslavia? Correct me if I am wrong, but isnt the Red Banner flying over the major cities of Euroslavia? I will always support communist and in the end, as father Marx said, communism is enivitable(sp?).

Game ain't over til the fat lady sings. ;)

And maybe Marx meant "communalism" as Communism hasn't seen many successes in the real world. But that's neither here nor there.



TO: Communist Euroslavia
FROM: Communist Louisiana

We have seemed to lost the airbase and a majority of the 3rd Red Fleet. Right now as we speak we are in the process of building and buying more stronger and better naval ships for future possible conflicts.

If you would like, we could bring in a coupple thousand troops to help quell any resistance left by the old government. Do not hesitate to ask us for assistance and you have a new allie that will stand and fight along side of you. We have also accepted and look forward to exchanging embassies with your nation.

Uhm I'd rather like to know what survived the bombardment/torpedoing/fleet operations, if anything. Or am I mistaken, and the 3rd Red Fleet had elements outside of that theater?

Thank you for your time. :)

The United Reich of Rodriquezland is ready to help the Euroslavian people trying to take down the communist. All we need is a request to do so, we have forces ready we will send..

A force of 235,000 Marines and 2,300 Tanks, artillery, AA, etc.: They will be dropped by air in groups of 5,000 at a time.

An armada of aircraft carriers, destroyers, submarines, landing craft, battleships, cruisers, and amphibious warfare ships will be deployed.

Thousands of bombers, fighters, spy planes, etc. Will also be ready for your help.

Rodriquezland will commit it's self to helping Euroslavia get rid of this communist threat if they request Rodriquezland's help. We stand by ready to go and ready to fight.

The Fuhrer, Andrew Phillip Rodriquez
The United Reich of Rodriquezland
I am currenly immobile , but i can still tell you that communism should stay where it is. good luck

Albania, Greek Territory

“Commander, General Celes is invading Albania as we speak.”

“I was kind of excepting of this.”

“Should I send out a force to counter them?”

“Yes.”

“Alright sir.”

600,000 soldiers where mobilized to counter General Celes’s invasion. They where going to unless mustard gas on the Euroslavian soldiers.

After a 30 minutes.

“Euroslavian Army at 12 o’clock.”

“Alright everybody prepare to attack!”

The soldiers lined up ready to fire on the Euroslavians where they where in range. Tanks which there shells where filled up with mustard gas where also lined up in the back to fire chemical weapons on the Euroslavian soldiers.

KKE’s secret Location in Northern Greece

“I will be sending a telegram to Communism Euroslavia now.”

“Good. Lets hope that they will accept our offer.”

To: Communism Euroslavia
From: KKE

We are the Communism Party of Greece and would like to help you in your conquest in destroying the corrupted Emperor in the Balkans, Nikolaos the Great. We will offer any assistance you need.

Athens, Greece

This HENN reporting to you on the missile attack from Euroslavia. 10 old weapons factories where destroyed but 6 of them where able to evacuate the area with the weapons they produced too. Also the missiles that where heading for the cities where all shot down but it cannot be said the same for the missiles that where targeting small towns. Over 100,000 civilians died in the attack. We also got news that the Euroslavian Army under the command of General Celes is currently invading Albania and that the Hellenic Army has launched a counter attack of 600,000 against them. We also got news that they will be using mustard gas against the Euroslavian Army.

TO: Communist Euroslavia
FROM: Communist Louisiana

We have seemed to lost the airbase and a majority of the 3rd Red Fleet. Right now as we speak we are in the process of building and buying more stronger and better naval ships for future possible conflicts.

If you would like, we could bring in a coupple thousand troops to help quell any resistance left by the old government. Do not hesitate to ask us for assistance and you have a new allie that will stand and fight along side of you. We have also accepted and look forward to exchanging embassies with your nation.

To: Communist Louisiana
From: Comrade Patrick Maloney of Pyrynn, Euroslavia.
Subject: RE: Troop Support

We would gladly accept the proposal of Communist Louisianan forces entering our nation in quelling any rebellion that is left from the former democratic Loyalists. The number of troops you are willing to send is up to you, but currently, we are willing to accept a large number, due to the fact that the nation is still completely unorganized. Majority of the former soldiers from the Democratic Euroslavia deserted their former government most because of General Celes, and her efforts to keep the might of Euroslavia intact.

This HENN reporting to you on the missile attack from Euroslavia. 10 old weapons factories where destroyed but 6 of them where able to evacuate the area with the weapons they produced too. Also the missiles that where heading for the cities where all shot down but it cannot be said the same for the missiles that where targeting small towns. Over 100,000 civilians died in the attack. We also got news that the Euroslavian Army under the command of General Celes is currently invading Albania and that the Hellenic Army has launched a counter attack of 600,000 against them. We also got news that they will be using mustard gas against the Euroslavian Army.


Communist Euroslavia calls upon the world to condemn NtG's decision to use mustard gas on the advancing Euroslavian Armies. The only reason our troops are invading your nation is the simple fact that you decided to invade us first. You entered our territory, and took over a small town within our borders. We have every right to counter-invade, but your use of chemical weapons is seen as cowardly and low.

Premier Jindal signs a document as General Gaspard walks in

Premier Jindal- Your being sent to Euroslavia General. You will command a force of probably a little over 20,000 in the end. Possibly and most likely even more in the near future. We need you to go because you are the best we have. We know you will defend Euroslavia with as much passion as you would Communist Louisiana.

General Gaspard- I will go but I want to bring atleast 500 of our Vermillion Specialist.

Premier Jindal- I see no problum with that you be ready to leave in 24 hours. You will be picked up and you will leave with the Specialist from Fort Polk.

General Gaspard- Yes sir.

Secret KKE HQ, Greece

"Boss I just got info from my sources that Sinestra, the sister of Empress Destra, arrived in Greece. She is at the Imperial Palace as we speak."

"Good. We will need to contact the Hellenes Queda, November 17 and ELAS on getting a force together to kidnap her."

"Alright boss. I will be contacting them right now. Also our ship with the weapons supply arrived to Communist Louisiana."

"Excellent!"

OCC: Euro, I need a name of a airport or base where I can land multiple aircraft with troops.

Battlefield, Albania, Greek Territory

The Hellenic Army was winning the battle as they continued to pound the Euroslavian forces with chemical weapons. Out in the distance there was a squadron of 20 Eurofighters Typhoon ready to launch an air attack on the Euroslavians.

“This is squadron leader 1 reporting in. All pilots ready your missiles and target the Euroslavian army. But don’t fire on close to our soldiers.”

The Eurofighters dived in for the attack. Each one targeting and at the same time they let lose hell when many missiles crashed down on the enemy. The enemy was weakened and they started retreating back for Euroslavia where they will be safe. Unfortunately General Celes was not killed by the chemical attack or the air attack. She continues to live another day. But the Emperor did not care he was happy that Celes knew that she lost the biggest battle in her life.

Greece may have failed in its attempt to conquer Euroslavia but the Euroslavian army was weakened a little bit enough to bring Greece back to #1 superpower status in the Balkans. Euroslavia turned communist and the old government including Empress Destra went into exile and for Sinestra she doesn’t know yet that she will gain much power in Greece…

That’s how the Euroslavia Communist revolution ended closing another chapter in the Balkan history but opening a new chapter too.

What the Greeks failed to realize was that the retreat had nothing to do with the Greek attack. The retreat was actually a reconciliation towards Nikolaos the Great, to possibly get a chance at starting relations again, however, seeing the fact that they tried to use chemical weapons against us, despite minimal losses, Euroslavia will not open negotiations with a nation who would use something so low. The revolution in Euroslavia was over, but the rivalry in the Balkan Peninsula has just started, and Euroslavia would prove itself to be the Superpower, in the coming years...