NationStates Jolt Archive

OoC : Agreed upon with Praetonia over AIM.

IC :

~In The Nation Of Praetonia~

The plane landed in the small airport, in which few went to. It was a small airport in a small little suburb of Praetonia. Jarf walked to the plane as the cargo hold opened. 3 airport workers began unpackaging all the stuff, then it was revealed. Tons of big white containers, all labeled "CrAzY StUfF". "Whats this?" Jarf heard one of the airport workers ask.

"Its my stuff, boys. Ill take it from here." Jarf interrupted, looking all business-like in his suit.

"We dont know what this is... We werent told of any white containers being put in the hold. We're gonna have to check it in with the gover-"

"Theres no need for that, Mr Airport officer." Jarf interrupted again.

"Hey man, get out of here. Leave your name at the front desk and we'll get back to you when this stuff is cleared!" the airport officer said in sudden worry. Jarf got a small smirk on his face.

"I dont think thats the way its gonna go down..." Jarf raised his right index finger and a truck suddenly roared in from the trees to the right.

"What the!" one of the airport workers screamed as they all ran for the building. The truck stopped and two people stepped out, both holding XR-2 rifles and wearing suits. They started firing at the airport workers, killing all 3.

"Good job boys, now lets load this stuff up and get out of here before anything happens..." and suddenly an alarm went off. "Dammit, someone mustve been watching! Hurry!" Two more people with XR-2s stepped out of the truck as they all started loading up the CrAzY containers into the truck. "Bring in the second truck!" and a second truck came in as the first roared away with one driver.

"We got company!" Jarf shouted, and police officers started to appear from the airport building. All of Jarf's men started firing, but they also got return fire. "One more container left! Go go go!" and the men all got in the truck with all the containers as Jarf started running to get in. But he was too late. 5 shots ripped into his back, he collapsed. Dead.

"Get his body!" one of Jarf's men who was firing from atop the truck shouted. Someone got out and ran for Jarf's body with the support fire from the truck. They got the body and roared out of there.

But the police got in their vehicle and followed.

"Since when do airport cops get hold of rifles!?" one of Jarf's men asked another as the vehicle made a sharp turn onto a road, the police vehicle following close by. "Got a grenade?" he asked the driver. The driver nodded and handed him a fragmentation grenade. He pulled the pin and threw it ahead of their own vehicle, and as they passed right over it, the police vehicle got it's hind caught in the explosion, but it kept going.

"Damn." the driver said in disguist. They swurved down the road and almost hit a poor little squirrel.

"Watch it! Squirrels are cute..."

And as the vehicle made another turn, the 1st truck showed up out of nowhere from the trees and collided with the police vehicle, which went flying into the forest, the truck only suffering cosmetic damage. Now both trucks were free. They went straight to base.

---

~In A Random House In A Suburb In Praetonia~

"OK, so, we get to the airport, we go to the back, and we load up the containers. Problem with this is how will they not find us out?" Rev asked the group sitting in the living room.

"Well, your gonna take out your XR-2s on the guys checkin' out the cargo. Then ya can handle the rest. Once you lift off, if you get that far, you walk up to the pilot and smash his head in. Then ya drive it straight into their capital. If you get shot down on the way, no biggie, the smallpox will still spread. But I prefer you get into the capital." Bobby responded.

"Simple enough." Rev took a seat. He was debating whether to crash it into a large building or a small one...

"And the two trucks. You two have to run it straight into the capital. They might shoot you along the way, dont let that happen. If they do capture you though, blow up the stuff, its better than loosing completely." Bobby told two other men standing to the side. They both nodded.

"I wish Jarf were here. He'd make this work perfectly..." Bobby sighed. Jarf was the leader of this operation, and since he died at the airport everyone was acting moody. "Well, boys, are you ready?"

Everyone said yes. So they moved out. The smallpox containers were loaded into 6 trucks. One was going to drive to the capital and bomb themselves, and four were going to be loaded into two different planes, one would be heading to the capital, Praeton, and the other would be heading to the major Praetonian city, Praextremis.

~~Trucks Headed To The Airport~~

"Airport coming up. How do we get around the back?" Rev asked Bobby, sitting next to him. Bob pointed to a small little road to the right. They arrived in the loading area of the planes. "Which one, Bobby?" and Bob pointed to the one farthest right.

The other truck went towards the first plane. 2 Hummers followed both trucks, both loaded with 10 XR-2 carrying terrorists.

They all got out at once. The 1st plane load area was suddenly littered with bullet fire, way too load. They had to move quickly. The last plane's loaders surrendered. "Kill 'em." They couldnt risk anyone telling anyone else anything. They started loading the smallpox.

~~Trucks Driving To The Capital~~

The trucks were labeled "BooBoo Bandaids", blending in perfectly well.

Jaxeg started whistling to himself.

"Stop that."

"Stop what?"

"Your whistling. Its annoying." Jaxen argued. But Jaxeg kept at it.

5 hours until they hit the capital.

~~Back At The Airport~~

"Run for it Rev, they are coming and you need to meet up with the ones on the plane! Go!" Bobby shouted as police officers suddenly started coming from the airport. Rev did as told and ran towards the streets, hoping not to be noticed.

Bobby was handed an XR-2 by one of his men, but he was sniped down as soon as he grabbed it. "AH!" he shouted as he went down with a bullet to the shoulder. There were some fake containers in the trucks to make the Praetonian police think that the stuff wasnt loaded yet. So as long as the police thought they won, Bob had done his job. The other plane seemed to be done too, as gunfire had erupted all over there as well.

The men fired and fired, but even if they wanted to win this one they couldnt. Praetonian military was here at this airport. All 20 were either killed or captured. Bobby was dead, Rev was on the plane as a passenger, and so was Jaxel, the other guy on the other plane. There were also other Jaxus Nine passengers on the planes, just to make sure everything went as planned.

~~Major City 4 Hours From Capital~~

"Um... Jaxen... why are those 2 police cars following us?" Jaxeg said looking behind him. Two cop cars were behind them. Sirens not on. Yet.

"Dammit... This was supposed to go off without incident..." Jaxen cursed under his breath. "Lets just make a break for it."

And with that Jaxeg stomped on the pedal, roaring through the street. Jaxen had the bomb set off timer in his hand. He was ready to press *Emergency Set Off* as soon as they got closer to the population.

Jaxeg made a sharp turn right into a biker, sending him flying. He had no time to worry about that. They sped up as the police cars turned on their sirens. "Shoot!" Jaxeg said as he hit a curb and crashed right into a building. He backed up and ended up crashing right into a police car. Jaxen was sent forward from the impact, and he didnt have his seatbelt on. The bomb control buttons stayed in the seat, but he went flying right through the windshield, then hit the ground. Dead.

"Damn!" Jaxeg cursed he reached for the bomb set off... The cop cars started to release power. Three bullets hit the back of the truck. He hit the button The bombs strapped to the truck exploded, and the smallpox was released from its containers. This might not have been the capital, but it was still a crowded suburban area.

~~Airplane # 2~~

Rev was buckled in and ready to take off. He had an XR-2 in a bag he snuck past security.

"Attention passengers. We have located unidentified containers in the cargo-hold. Flight delayed until further notice. Please go to the front desk for more infromation."

Rev unbuckled and got ready to get another ticket. Somewhere far, far away.

~~Airplane # 1, Already In Air Above Praextremis~~

Jaxel unbuckled himself and stood up, as did 3 others. They all had pistols under their shirts. They started walking towards the front but were stopped by an air marshall. "Where are you four goin'?" he asked.

Jaxel looked around him. No one else looking. He nodded to one of his three partners. They opened the bathroom door and Jaxel threw the marshall in, and gave him a punch in the fist to keep him quiet.

He nodded to the other three again. They walked forward and another air marshall was guarding the door to the pilot's room. Its good they had seats close up, otherwise they wouldve encountered more trouble. "How may I help you gentlemen?" Jaxel and his group took out their pistols, as did the air marshall.

"Tell the pilot to open the doors." Jaxel said calmly and quietly.

The doors opened as the air marshall requested. Jaxel and his group walked in, with the air marshall, now defenseless, and shut the doors. The security in their didnt dare resist 4 pistols aimed at him. "Get up, pilot." One of Jaxel's men sat down and started piloting the plane.

"Where... Where are you taking us?" The pilot asked. The co-pilot was shivering.

"Why, Praextremis of course." Jaxel slammed the pistol into the man's head, knocking him out. The air marshalls grabbed two of Jaxel's men with their hands, but they quickly took care of them with a few flips and punches. The co-pilot ran out, shaking.

"Ladies & Gentlemen, we will be taking you to Praextremis today, courtesy of the Jaxus Nine terrorist group. In the cargo hold are many containers of smallpox. Thank you for participating in the devestation of your nation."

The plane started going faster and lower, and then a large building was in sight. Perfect target. From there the smallpox would fall even wider than hoped.

"Have a nice day."

And the plane crashed into the building, the smallpox being released from the containers, and spreading across the major city.

~~2nd Truck~~

The second truck was speeding towards Praextremis as they saw the plane crash from afar. They were being followed by 4 police cars, getting bumped around, shot at, but never destroyed. Apparently these cops knew that smallpox was in the truck this time.

The truck reached the middle of the city, where people were running around frantically. The driver pressed the bomb button, and it exploded, taking out the police cars and spreading the smallpox.

The Jaxus Nine terrorist organization strikes again.

((OOC: Hm, at least you're not godmodding the attacks. I might contact you soon for an attack. For now, I have to finish another terrorist RP))

((OOC: Hm, at least you're not godmodding the attacks. I might contact you soon for an attack. For now, I have to finish another terrorist RP))

((OoC : OK awesome. TG me whenever. :) ))

*tag*

All over Praetonia, televisions and radioes were switched on from afar. PA systems in every building in Praetonia were activated and air radi sirens sounded. Every means of communicating to the public was utlised. As one family sat in front of the TV, the programme they were watching cut out, and the figure of the Prime Minister appeared on the screen, standing in front of a Praetonian Flag. In front of him was a platinum white podium, upon which the seal of the Imperial Eagle, symbol of the armed forces and the Praetonian State, and the seal of the Striding Cat, symbol of the people of Praetonia and the Praetonian Parliament, were engraved in interwining gold leaf.

"People of Praetonia, Foreign Nationals and Governments of Foreign Powers. I speak to you today under the gravest of circumstances. The Democratic Imperium of Praetonia has been hit by a series of biological attacks, centred around Praextremis and several smaller cities along the Via Maxima leading into Praeton.

"It is of the utmost importance that you stay in your home, close all doors and windows, and do not attmept to leave, even if you believe you are in a danger zone. You must not leave your house even to stock food - disinfected food will be distributed by the Imperial Guard and Urban Cohorts. You should make sure to boil all water before use. Any attempt to leave your current position will lead to the spreading of the disease and it will also make you more vulnerable tothe disease yourself.

"If you have children at school then they will be brought to your house by the end of the day. Do not go out to look for relatives. If you believe that you, or a family member, may have contracted the diease then you should call the emergency services immediately. Other calls to the emergency services should be made only in the direst of circumstances. Fines will be handed out to anyone who wastes the valuable time of our soon to be over stretched emergency services.

"In order to preserve order, a state of martial law is now in force. Looters will shot on sight and large groups of people will be forcibily dispersed. The Imperial Horseguards have locked down the Administrative Quarter of every city in Praetonia. Any attempt to force access to these areas will be met with deadly force. Any attempt to leave an infected, or suspectedly infected, area will be met with deadly force. Inter-city travel has been suspended.

"An emergency vaccination programme is being brought into effect. The Imperial Guard will commence the vaccination of people first in the affected areas moving outwards in concentric circles. For the safety of others, vaccination is not optional. All travel into and out of Praetonia has been suspended. The Imperial Navy will sink any ship attempting to enter or leave Praetonian waters. The Imperial Airforce will shoot down any plane attempting to enter, take off or leave Praetonia.

"Only with the help and co-operation of every single Praetonian Citizen and Foreign National in Praetonia can prevent this from attack from wiping out huge swathes of people. Praetonia and all of her citizens require now that you do so."

President Mike Sarzo was listening for the latest reports from the insurrection in Branwyn when the Bat Phone rang.

"Interesting," Sarzo muttered. He picked up the phone and, in a clear voice said "Sarzo."

"Did you hear what happened in Praetonia," came the call from Vice President for Defense John Newman.

"No I didn't," Sarzo said. "John, this had better be important."

"It is," Newman said. "There was just a terrorist attack over there. A plane flew into a building. There are unconfirmed reports of a smallpox infestation."

Sarzo gulped.

"Well, it's definitely important," Sarzo said finally. "I'm calling a cabinet meeting."

Ten minutes later, the cabinet was gathered around the table as Newman gave the report.

"Recommendations?"

"We need to mobilize a full fleet," Vice President for Science and Technology Tracy Obenga said. "They're one of our closest allies. We need to help them."

"We've got too much on our plate as it is," Vice President for Budget and Finance Carol Weinberg countered. "We've got a rebellion we're going to have to put down and we're getting involved with this? Our military is going to be spread awfully thin."

"We're not so thin that we can't help our allies," Newman retorted.

"With what," Vice President for Health and Athletics Jimmy Marshall said. "Do you know what kind of effect a smallpox outbreak would have on our relief workers?"

Sarzo interrupted the discussion.

"Are any of you suggesting we don't help Praetonia," Sarzo said sharply. "Throw out the alliances we're in with them at the moment. Even if you don't count those alliances, they're one of our two closest allies. Not helping them in some form is absolutely not an option. Period."

"Mr. President, what do you think we are, the Praetonia Rescuers? We've got our own problems," Weinberg retorted.

Sarzo glared at Weinberg.

"I don't think you were listening Carol," Sarzo said, his voice seething with anger. "Not helping Praetonia is not an option I will consider. This is Praetonia for Pete's sake! We'll help them. That's final."

Weinberg looked at Sarzo's reaction and realized that he wasn't going to listen to any other options.

"All right," Weinberg said. "You win. But why don't you ask Praetonia what they want from us?"

"I intend to do that."

The meeting adjourned and Sarzo went to the Bat Phone to call Prime Minister Sarius Publius.

"Sarius, we've got our military at orange alert. We're willing to help you in whatever way we need to. Just let me know what you want us to do."

Jaxusism once again denies knowledge of the smallpox containers and where the Jaxus Nine terrorist group got them from. We are in no way affiliated with the Jaxus Nine terrorist group and we hope that Praetonia will be able to be safe, clean up, and have minimal damages. We pray for the Praetonians.

~ Jaxusism Foreign Affairs

Hacked into Praetonian TVs : "Are you afraid yet?" the same Jaxus Nine terrorist group leader with the same suit & ski mask and the same XR-2 asks in a deadly voice.

The Prime Minister looked rather pale as he replied to Sarzo's call. He was wearing a gas mask, sitting behind a desk in an office that was quickly being turned into a fortress. Several members of the Horseguard battalions were standing guard in by the entrances. In the distance he could hear gunfire, "We can't ask you to help, Mike. To be perfectly honest any help you sent won't be going back to Sarzonia..." he dropped the phone and ducked under his desk as a bullet smashed through the window to his right.

Through the hole he could see several Imperial Horseguards engaged in bitter fighting with several mobsters, "The disease is already starting to spread, not to mention law and order appears to have broken down," he said, picking up the phone again and climbing back into his chair. More Horseguards were covering the window with reinforced kevlar.

The screens were quickly cleared of the terrorist film and in its place films were shown. These included a film showing an Imperial Guard Regiment on parade in front of the Houses of Parliament, and smiling soldiers handing out gas-masks and giving children smallpox vaccinations.

Meanwhile in the Capitol the mobsters had been forced out of the administrative sector, although a large hole still existed in the perimetre wall. In most of the cities, order was mantained, although instances of rioting and looting were not unknown. In some instances the Imperial Police opened fire on groups of people who refused to disperse. Although the Government denied knowledge, rumours quickly spread.

His Isselmerian and Nielander Majesty's Government wishes to send the people of Praetonia its condolences for this cowardly attack upon them and hopes the government of the Democratic Imperium will permit us to transport a epidemic containment and control group (ECCG) from the Royal Institute for Health and Disease Control (RIHDC) to assist in controlling the containment of the disease by inoculating those currently not infected by the virus and making those who have been stricken comfortable insofar as is possible. This ECCG will be in full hazardous environment gear throughout their work day but will of course comply with all of your quarantine requirements.

Sincerely,

Sir George Fredericks, KL, MP, CS, PC
Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Development
UKIN

Vestern States ready to send in doctors, nurses ans other specialists to aid.

We are also putting our hospitals at disposal , should the nimber of casualties rise too high

If it`s ok, Transport Command will send cargo-planes in order to move infected persons.
In order to maintain control, we can also send Counter-Revolutionary brigade to assist.

We will du anything in our migth to help your people

Official Statement from The Proletariat Commonwealth of The Island of Rose:

The Island of Rose is willing to send peacekeepers, medical help and military aid to our ally Praetonia. Remember, just say the word, all I have to do is put the lattitude and longitude and you'll have red planes flying over your nation helping you. God bless your nation.
-President Sergei Ilyanov of The Island of Rose

Official Diplomatic Communique to Isselmere-Neiland

The Imperial Government graciously accepts any and all help that you are able
to offer, however we must stress the severety of the tradgedy that has befallen
us, and we ask you to think carefully for the safety of your ECCG before
dispatching one to the Democratic Imperium. We must emphasise the fact that
we will treat you with no diminished respect if you choose to pull out
assistance.

Official Diplomatic Communique to the Vestern States

The Imperial Government cautiously thanks you for your greatly appreciated
help. We must however request that you think most carefully before
dispatching your servicemen and women to an area where death is a very real
possibility. If you do choose to go ahead with providing assistance, we will
not allow any of your planes to leave the Democratic Imperium. The risk of
infection in your nation and then a large scale breakout is too great.

Official Diplomatic Communique to The Island of Rose

Your help in this instance is very much appreciated. We must, however, caution
you that any assistance you send may not be returning to TIoR. If you decide
to pull out assistance now we will think no less of you for it. If you do choose to
go ahead then assistance is greatly appreciated by the people and State of
Praetonia

Official Diplomatic Communique to the Vestern States

The Imperial Government cautiously thanks you for your greatly appreciated
help. We must however request that you think most carefully before
dispatching your servicemen and women to an area where death is a very real
possibility. If you do choose to go ahead with providing assistance, we will
not allow any of your planes to leave the Democratic Imperium. The risk of
infection in your nation and then a large scale breakout is too great.[/QUOTE]

We understand your concern, remember, just give us a call and we will come to your aid.
What are you requesting at this stage in terms of equippment os supplies?
Is para-drops of such things okey?

Here in Vestern States, people is more than willing to help.

The Unified States (Armed Republic and Ithraxo) of Binthor requests that we be able to send a special division of our Deep Six Legion in to keep peace in affected areas of the country. All men are volunteers from the HazMat division and all realize the threat to their lives. We realize the men would not be able to depart the nation until the disease is contained. Aprox. 300 men will be dropped offshore by a secure transport and will swim in. All men have special non-restricting combat HazMat suits and have the latest disease and virus immunizations and vaccines, including smallpox. These men are highly trained and have been in many cases of unorganized and organized combat and riots. We are hoping these men will be able to keep peace if allowed in the country. We are awaiting your reply.

-President Vale Odgers, Unified States (Armed Republic) of Binthor
-Tyler Birdwell, Prime Minister of Ithraxo
-Eric Kaldin, Secretary of Defense
-Trey Sanders, Secretary of Health

tag

Official Diplomatic Communique to the Vestern States

We need whatever you can spare. Everything that can be provided will be used
and appreciated. However we must inform you now that any personel you drop
will not be allowed to leave unless first quarantined.

Official Diplomatic Communique to Binthor

We thankyou for you help, although we must impress upon you the danger that
will be presented to your forces. Even if you do decide to go ahead with
providing assistance, we cannot allow your men to bear arms against Praetonian
citizens unless in self defence. The Imperial Police and Imperial Guard will
contain riots.

All over Praetonia, televisions and radioes were switched on from afar. PA systems in every building in Praetonia were activated and air radi sirens sounded. Every means of communicating to the public was utlised. As one family sat in front of the TV, the programme they were watching cut out, and the figure of the Prime Minister appeared on the screen, standing in front of a Praetonian Flag. In front of him was a platinum white podium, upon which the seal of the Imperial Eagle, symbol of the armed forces and the Praetonian State, and the seal of the Striding Cat, symbol of the people of Praetonia and the Praetonian Parliament, were engraved in interwining gold leaf.

"People of Praetonia, Foreign Nationals and Governments of Foreign Powers. I speak to you today under the gravest of circumstances. The Democratic Imperium of Praetonia has been hit by a series of biological attacks, centred around Praextremis and several smaller cities along the Via Maxima leading into Praeton.

"It is of the utmost importance that you stay in your home, close all doors and windows, and do not attmept to leave, even if you believe you are in a danger zone. You must not leave your house even to stock food - disinfected food will be distributed by the Imperial Guard and Urban Cohorts. You should make sure to boil all water before use. Any attempt to leave your current position will lead to the spreading of the disease and it will also make you more vulnerable tothe disease yourself.

"If you have children at school then they will be brought to your house by the end of the day. Do not go out to look for relatives. If you believe that you, or a family member, may have contracted the diease then you should call the emergency services immediately. Other calls to the emergency services should be made only in the direst of circumstances. Fines will be handed out to anyone who wastes the valuable time of our soon to be over stretched emergency services.

"In order to preserve order, a state of martial law is now in force. Looters will shot on sight and large groups of people will be forcibily dispersed. The Imperial Horseguards have locked down the Administrative Quarter of every city in Praetonia. Any attempt to force access to these areas will be met with deadly force. Any attempt to leave an infected, or suspectedly infected, area will be met with deadly force. Inter-city travel has been suspended.

"An emergency vaccination programme is being brought into effect. The Imperial Guard will commence the vaccination of people first in the affected areas moving outwards in concentric circles. For the safety of others, vaccination is not optional. All travel into and out of Praetonia has been suspended. The Imperial Navy will sink any ship attempting to enter or leave Praetonian waters. The Imperial Airforce will shoot down any plane attempting to enter, take off or leave Praetonia.

"Only with the help and co-operation of every single Praetonian Citizen and Foreign National in Praetonia can prevent this from attack from wiping out huge swathes of people. Praetonia and all of her citizens require now that you do so."


You never mentioned what disease it was ^^

OOC: No I didn't, I dont want to terrify my people. That will come later. Anyway close allies have been informed, as has everyone who has offered help, so it doesnt matter so much. Anyway, quoting that whole massive post for a one line comment was a little unneccessary.

Ohh ok

I really like this RP so I'm gonna post ^^

Official Statement from The Proletariat Commonwealth of The Island of Rose:

We will send a platoon of Rosktai forces, all in special HAZMAT suits. They will fly over in an RCP-1. But that's not all, expect 4 more RCP-1s dropping food, water, and medical supplies in diesease proof coverings. Also, 20 RF-1s will escort the RCP-1s, just in case. Just tell the RCP-1s where to put their stuff.
-President Sergei Ilyanov of The Island of Rose

((OOC: You can RP them arriving and telling them what to do. I'll RP the soldiers... obviously. The Rosktai are our Special Forces by the way...))

"Well... terrorists are doing it again," the Premier's aide said nervously, as he flipped through the reports. "They are trying a biological attack, sources suggest that these may be smallpox. It also looks like that the nation right now is under a martial law-like state. Doesn't look too good. What do you suggest, sir?"

The Premier looked at him. "Well, I'm not the foreign relations person, that's President Vansare's job, but the situation does look very bad there. It looks like that they will definately need help. Definately."

The aide, who has continued to flip through the reports from both governmental sources and the media, thought of an idea. "I'm thinking that we send relief personnel there. Maybe from independent organizations, since we can order them to do so in this time of crisis. If we don't help, then this situation will continue to dig more graves for the people of Praetonia."

"Relief personnel, independent organizations!?", the Premier almost exclaimed. "The help needed is far beyond simple relief organizations. We now defiantely need Hazmat teams from the military. The naval Hazmat isn't available for the moment, nor are the teams from both the Security Bureau and Internal Affairs Ministry available. I'm personally looking into the Army's Chemical Warfare Corps, and their Armed Police Corps' NBC relief teams."

"Alright," the aide said as he looked towards the phone in the Premier's office. "I think the others already know about this, but should I phone the President? I do believe that he's attending an emergency meeting about this."

"I'm sure he will pick up the phone," the Premier replied. "Just call him. The military and Security Bureau people are there too. They'll get it sorted out. Oh yes, remind both the President and me to call the Praetonian government."

"We would like to interrupt this news to show that currently in Praetonia, a terrorist attack has taken place, the terrorist attacks shows sign of severeness for they have spread smallpox."

"This situation had started with a security officer that was trying to check one man's luggage because they had found suspicious items located in it. The man, known as Jarf, we do not know his last name, had ordered men in trucks to breakthrough the airport to plan his escape with the suspicous items known as Smallpox. Police has apparently had shot Jarf, leaving him dead with five bullet holes in his back."

"Poilice had chased one of the six trucks that had smallpox in them, the two police cars had exploded but the truck had also exploded, spreading smallpox in an populated subarban area."

"Currently, the Praetorian government is taking severe action to comdemn these acts."

"But for our nation, we have been studying a cure and a way to stop smallpox from spreading for the past three years, we are happy to say that we are very close to succeed our goals."

This news has been reported by Trisha Takanawa.

--Emperor's office--

The Emperor looking shocked than ever was weird to see on a peaceful dark night, as the wind lightly blew outside his office, his mouth literally dropped. The outside scenery didn't go with the Emperor's reacton.

"Yoko! Yoko! Come here now!" yelled the Emperor in a shaky voice as he was startled.

"Yes, your Majesty?" replied Yoko confused.

"Call. . .call. . .call a cabinet meeting now!" ordered the Emperor.

"But why sir?" asked the secretary.

"Is it your job to ask why I say my orders Yoko?" replied the Emperor angrily.

"Sorry s--"

"Go!"

"Yes, sir" replied the shaky Yoko as she left.



In a hurrily fifteen minutes later, all the cabinet members met.

"Yes your Majesty? Why such an urgent meeting?" asked one of the Ministers.

"Praetonia has been attacked harshly, with the spread of Smallpox, we must take action, how close are our scientists to finding a cure for smallpox?" said the Emperor with his eyes straining on the desk.

"Why, we had just found it, I was coming to tell you the good news! We found pills that repel them!" replied the Minister of Health in a cheery voice which definalty did not go with the atmosphere that the Emperor had around him.

"Well, make more of those pills but check them to see if there are any side effects and who should use them and who shouldn't" commanded the Emperor.

"Well, we already have done that, everyone can use it, even people with heart problems and the side effects are only people feeling sleepy." replied the Minister of Health in a normal voice which wasn't cheery anymore.

"Okay, make more of those pills and I will contact the Praetorian President to ask him if we can send about ten shiploads of the pills, and make sure we make more of the pills withen seventy-two hours!"

"Yes sir." replied the Minister.

"Minister of Commerce, get ten shiploads ready for the shipment." said the Emperor in a frustrated voice.

"Uh, yes sir." replied the Minister of Commerce.

"You are all dismissed." said the Emperor, releasing the Ministers.


The Emperor went to call the Praetorian President to arrange the shipment of the medicine.

The Lands of Alex will deploy medical and peackeeping forces. Also, we will accept refugees on the islands off our nations coast and will allow them to return to Praetonia when the epidemic ends.

-Interim Presdient Jordi Alastar
-Interim Vice President Iskander Hmarzae
-Prime Minister Kiara Gboula

"We can't ask you to help, Mike. To be perfectly honest any help you sent won't be going back to Sarzonia..." he dropped the phone and ducked under his desk as a bullet smashed through the window to his right.

Through the hole he could see several Imperial Horseguards engaged in bitter fighting with several mobsters, "The disease is already starting to spread, not to mention law and order appears to have broken down," he said, picking up the phone again and climbing back into his chair. More Horseguards were covering the window with reinforced kevlar.

"Sarius, I can't NOT help you," Sarzo replied. "The Sarzonian people would never forgive me if I didn't. We can send you our best medical teams with full anti-contamination gear and 12 Pasteur-class hospital ships. We will have our best medical personnel on hand to help stop the spread of this dastardly disease, but our entry into your waters and your territory would depend upon your permission, of course.

"I have declared tomorrow a day of mourning in Sarzonia and I have been authorised to provide you with at least $100 billion in aid.

"As soon as we find out who did it, we're going after them with everything we can muster."

The anger was building in Sarzo's voice as the full impact of what happened to one of Sarzonia's closest allies began to set hold. He hung up the phone and slammed his right fist onto his desk.

We'll get them Sarius, Sarzo thought. Those sons of bitches are as good as dead.

"We would like to interrupt this news to show that currently in Praetonia, a terrorist attack has taken place, the terrorist attacks shows sign of severeness for they have spread smallpox."

"This situation had started with a security officer that was trying to check one man's luggage because they had found suspicious items located in it. The man, known as Jarf, we do not know his last name, had ordered men in trucks to breakthrough the airport to plan his escape with the suspicous items known as Smallpox. Police has apparently had shot Jarf, leaving him dead with five bullet holes in his back."

"Poilice had chased one of the six trucks that had smallpox in them, the two police cars had exploded but the truck had also exploded, spreading smallpox in an populated subarban area."

"Currently, the Praetorian government is taking severe action to comdemn these acts."

"But for our nation, we have been studying a cure and a way to stop smallpox from spreading for the past three years, we are happy to say that we are very close to succeed our goals."

This news has been reported by Trisha Takanawa.

--Emperor's office--

The Emperor looking shocked than ever was weird to see on a peaceful dark night, as the wind lightly blew outside his office, his mouth literally dropped. The outside scenery didn't go with the Emperor's reacton.

"Yoko! Yoko! Come here now!" yelled the Emperor in a shaky voice as he was startled.

"Yes, your Majesty?" replied Yoko confused.

"Call. . .call. . .call a cabinet meeting now!" ordered the Emperor.

"But why sir?" asked the secretary.

"Is it your job to ask why I say my orders Yoko?" replied the Emperor angrily.

"Sorry s--"

"Go!"

"Yes, sir" replied the shaky Yoko as she left.



In a hurrily fifteen minutes later, all the cabinet members met.

"Yes your Majesty? Why such an urgent meeting?" asked one of the Ministers.

"Praetonia has been attacked harshly, with the spread of Smallpox, we must take action, how close are our scientists to finding a cure for smallpox?" said the Emperor with his eyes straining on the desk.

"Why, we had just found it, I was coming to tell you the good news! We found pills that repel them!" replied the Minister of Health in a cheery voice which definalty did not go with the atmosphere that the Emperor had around him.

"Well, make more of those pills but check them to see if there are any side effects and who should use them and who shouldn't" commanded the Emperor.

"Well, we already have done that, everyone can use it, even people with heart problems and the side effects are only people feeling sleepy." replied the Minister of Health in a normal voice which wasn't cheery anymore.

"Okay, make more of those pills and I will contact the Praetorian President to ask him if we can send about ten shiploads of the pills, and make sure we make more of the pills withen seventy-two hours!"

"Yes sir." replied the Minister.

"Minister of Commerce, get ten shiploads ready for the shipment." said the Emperor in a frustrated voice.

"Uh, yes sir." replied the Minister of Commerce.

"You are all dismissed." said the Emperor, releasing the Ministers.


The Emperor went to call the Praetorian President to arrange the shipment of the medicine.

[[OK first of all how do you know ANY of what happened? You dont have any way to know names, events, or anything of the such. Praetonia has not released any of this. And second, no. Unless you can actual explain to me your cure, its useless in this RP.

Sorry to sound harsh, its just none of what you said made sense.]]

Official Diplomatic Communique to Isselmere-Neiland

The Imperial Government graciously accepts any and all help that you are able
to offer, however we must stress the severety of the tradgedy that has befallen
us, and we ask you to think carefully for the safety of your ECCG before
dispatching one to the Democratic Imperium. We must emphasise the fact that
we will treat you with no diminished respect if you choose to pull out
assistance.
Your Excellency,

The members of the ECCG understand the risks involved and have volunteered their services to assist your nation in determining the disease and to assist your people in their inoculation efforts and the containment of the disease. The units will arrive in one General Marsden-class personnel transport crewed by volunteers likewise protected against the hazardous environment that will not leave harbour until the contagion is contained and the ship itself is decontaminated.

Nonetheless, we thank you for your concern,

Sir George Fredericks
Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Development
UKIN

Official Communiqué

The Commonwealth has heard of the great tragedy that has taken place in Praetonia. We deeply mourn the loss of Praetonian lives, and offer our hope and wishes to both victims and their families. We would be willing to provide assistance in anyway possible. At this time, however, our intelligence on the matter is quite limited, so we would appreciate an informative detail to further aid our humanitarian effort. We understand the risk involved, but volunteers are on hand to alleviate the crisis.

Respectfully,

Nathanial Sun
Minister of Foreign Affairs

Joan Speal
Minister of Health and Human Services


-Internal Memo-
Prime Minister's Office

Biological terror attacks in Praetonia; large explosions; possible aircraft hijackings
--Exact time [unknown]; possibly in the early morning, around 10:00
--Location of infections [Praextremis, Praeton suburbs]; large urban centers
--Biological Agent [unknown]; possible anthrax, smallpox infestations
--Martial law in effect; reports of large-scale disorder/looting
--Administration Sectors under lockdown, inner cities closed
--Flights to and from Praetonia have ended, temporarily banned; no traffic in or out of major urban areas
--Status: [Unknown]; large-scale contamination possible

Course of action
--Contact Praetonian Government/High Command
--Airborne delivery of foodstuffs and water; paradroppings
--Immediate aid relief through entrance of HAZMAT medical teams; Biological Agent Decontamination and Treatment (BADaT) expedition through Army

[[OK first of all how do you know ANY of what happened? You dont have any way to know names, events, or anything of the such. Praetonia has not released any of this. And second, no. Unless you can actual explain to me your cure, its useless in this RP.

Sorry to sound harsh, its just none of what you said made sense.]]


Dude, he just said that every means of communication had been on, radios, T.V's all, and what does it look like? Intelligence man, intelligence, for example, intelligence is the CIA. You should think twice before talking, and this is a free-form RP, you can do anything here, which is close to reality, and you can bring a little fantasy in too, and I bought in the cure for the smallpox.

This is my rebuttal.

Dude, he just said that every means of communication had been on, radios, T.V's all, and what does it look like? Intelligence man, intelligence, for example, intelligence is the CIA. You should think twice before talking, and this is a free-form RP, you can do anything here, which is close to reality, and you can bring a little fantasy in too, and I bought in the cure for the smallpox.

This is my rebuttal.

1st your intelligence cant be so large. YOU ARE BUILDING NUKES as a September nation. YOU HAVE SUPER-INTELLIGENCE as a September nation. YOU HAVE THE CURE FOR SALLPOX as a September nation. You have an 86 million pop. You, my friend, are godmodding. Im ignoring all your RP unless you make it reasonable.

September nation? Umm, ok......

Weird....

Jaxus and Jaxusim, looks like you own two nations at once.

Total Weirdo

September nation? Umm, ok.................................................................................................. ...........................................................................weird.................... ........................................................................

[[Stop spamming the thread, your a September nation. That means you were created in September. Anyways, if you still want to participate, make your participation reasonable.]]

September nation? Umm, ok......

Weird....

Jaxus and Jaxusim, looks like you own two nations at once.

Total Weirdo

[[Jaxusism is my strict militaristic nation, and Jaxus was once my Free Republic. I turned Jaxus into a terrorist organization.

So be quiet your the Total Weirdo.

Stop spamming the thread up.]]

Official Diplomatic Communique to Praetonia

Vastiva is horrified by this series of attacks.

We will be shipping in the 183rd MASH NBC Battalion. This unit will be landed at any airport you name where all equipment will be unloaded and planes will then leave without contact by any of your nationals.

The 183rd is one of our few HazMat MASH units, completely trained in techniques for identifying and treating known diseases; its equipment includes several self-contained biological analysis trucks and two complete vaccine and curative mobile factories.

We will be airdropping whatever additional supplies the 183rd requires. We realize this action may result in the demise of our unit; we note all members of this unit are there because they volunteered to be there, and we further note all members volunteered to be in Praetoria by unanimous vote when offered the option to not go without shame or disgrace.

Go in Peace,

Namaste,
Raahmid Javani
Grand Vizier,
Humble Servant of His Magnificence, the Sultan of Vastiva

Ok ok, I give up, I'll post a reasonable post later.

Encoded Communique to the Praetonian Foreign Ministry

We are ready to provide any and all aide needed by the People and Government of the Grand Duchy of Hamptonshire. Medical Personnel from the Royal Armed Forces and the Ministry of Health and Domestic Security are ready for immediate deployment to Praetonia. Royal Air Force Heavy Transport Airships are have left their bases in Oltremare Province bound for Praetonian cities with 50,000 tons of fresh drinking water, 85,000 tons of Royal Army Field Rations, as well as other basic supplies to replace those materials destroyed in the attacks.

Once you have determined the viral, chemical, and/or bacterialogical agents used in these dastardly attacks, the MoHaDS is prepared to transport any medications, vacinations, and/or serums necessary to contain and eliminate these outbreaks. While we cannot provide you with enough medication to treat your entire population, for obvious reasons, we do have tens of millions of doses of several potential medications that can be transported to Praetonia.

We are also willing to provide any law enforcement or military personnel needed to defend Praetonia during this time of crisis and vulernability.


Sincerely,

Senator Mel Ziller
Foreign Minister
Grand Duchy of Hamptonshire

An Official Message from Central Director Elliot Schultz


"We, the United Socialist States of Schultaria Prime, shall help our allies in the Nation of Praetonia in any form required. The recent passage of the "Shining Beacon" Bill by our National Assembly couldn't have come at a better time to help those who have suffered the worst from this catastrophe.

As the unofficial leader of The Alliance of Pure Research and Engineering States (TAPRES), I invoke an alliance-wide aid package based on Section II, Article B of The Grand Charter and Constitution. All member nations should agree to a proposal designed to help the Nation of Praetonia in their time of crisis, and neither should Praetonia nor any TAPRES member go it alone. This alliance has billions of dollars and tons of medical technology earmarked for the "...purposes of improving the standards and qualities of living...", and we shall put these resources to good use here.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v352/emschultz/CentralDirectorArtsy3.jpg
-Central Director Elliot Schultz
-Head of State: The United Socialist States of Schultaria Prime & The Protectorate of Islandia Schultaria

President Kenny William's Response

Good morning and God bless. We are all aware of the tragedy that has come to our ally Praetonia. Once again sick minded terrorists attacked innocent civilians to kill the peaceful and innocent Praetonians because they were jeaulous of the hard work of that people.

We send our condolences to the government and people of Praetonia. As we are speaking, volunteers of the Magen David Adom (Red Star of David) are preparing to leave on an IDF Air Force C-5A transport with medical supplies. More volunteers are coming along with more supplies from IDF Medical Laboratories. I will personally be donating blood and encourage all who are healty enough to do so follow suit. I can ensure that the volunteers are experienced in dealing with terrorist victims as sadly we deal with the problem all too much when fanatics attack a Jewish state.

Praetonia has been a good friend to us and we must be a good friend to them. The IDF Government will donate $4.5 billion for the rebuilding of Praetonia and encourages IDF citizens to donate also. We will be holding a telethon this weekend to help raise more money. Many Jewish stars such as Ben Stiller, Ben Stein, Adam Sandler, and others will be participating to help raise as much as possible.

May God bless the people of IDF and Praetonia.

Early in the morning, almost half of the 2nd Air-transport commnads C-17, loaded with fieldhospitals, medical equippmentand supplies and protection suits took to the skies.

Also, smaller planes, carrying voulenteers from the National Desease Controll Administration, took of. The passengers knew what they were going into but they were convinced that they did the rigth thing.

A few hourns lader, the cargodoor opened and the personell onboard the C-17 started to para-drop the equippment.
The voulenteers and thei planes landed, fullt aware that it could take some time before they could return. But they did`t wanted to just sit at home and powerless to do anything.

The supplies started to fal on the ground.
One of the escorting figthers made a loop and some rolls to entertain the people on the ground

Crucian Killman, current dictator of Alla Xul, sat in his office, smoking a cigar, and plotting to himself when a report was thrown on his desk.

"And just what the hell is this?" He demanded.

"A report sir. A nation called Praetonia was hit by terrorist attacks recently, and many other nations have pitched in to help. This could be a chance to increase our allies."

This provoked a thought.

"Get me on the phone to the leader of Praetonia." Crucian said, smiling. "I have a proposition for him..."

OOC: So, how was it? Did that suck as horribley as I thought it would? I hope not, because I want to get involved ASAP.

To: Praetonia President
From: 1st Councillor Cassandra Woo

We are shocked by the recent turn of events that have struck your nation and we offer our condolences to you and your people. I have ordered Medical and aid supplies to be loaded into our cargo planes to be sent to aid your nation, furthermore volunteers from the Medical Corps are also being sent to aid your people. These people fully understand the risk they are putting themselves in and will gladly risk their lives to help others. We understand if you require to quarentine our planes and people to stem the risk of outbreak in other nation.

If you need anything else, please feel free to ask.

Thank You and God Speed,
Cassandra Woo
1st Councillor
Endenia

These NATO dogs can't even protect themselves so how can they protect the world? This news of many deaths in Praetonia is music to our ears and the live images from the site fills our minds with joy. This act of terror has gave our citizens even more hope of crushing the dogs of the world. The day comes closer and your end draws nearer. We do not praise the terrorists but we do praise their actions. However, we feel sadened we couldn't have done it. The haydays of terror are over, but letting down your own pure citizens trusting it wouldn't happen to you is a sign of weakness.

http://members.lycos.co.uk/manhattanproject120/boysfrombrazil2.jpg
Adolf Leighmar, Führer of National Socialist Holy Panooly

"Mr. President, this is an attack on the Republic. Not only is a close and trusted ally assaulted with biological weapons, we also have 20,000 military personnel stationed permanentely at Oak Hill, just north of Praextremis. These terrorists, whoever might've been responsible, are endangering our own people,"

Farid stated, slamming his fist onto the Presidential desk, before retracting it with a rather tormented expression on his face.

"You okay?"

Abdullah asked, a wide grin lining his face.

"Yeah, yeah, let's get on with business,"

"Right then, we have to do something. We've encountered continious riots in Mocha, making us look like fools to the rest of the world. Now, with elections in a few weeks, foreign endorsements playing a big role, we should offer assistance right now. Send a communique,"

"Aye"

Encrypted Message to Praetonia

Our friends,

We offer our sincerest condolences to all whose lives will never be the same again by personal losses. We have already instructed the Al-Sabirian military contigent in Oak Hill, just north of Praextremis, to do anything in their power, and resources, to aid the infected areas. May this ease your pain.

Regards,

Farid Jamzad
Vice President
The Arab Republic of Al-Sabir

Exetonia wil willingly dontae 1 trillion USD to the redeveloment of Praetoria and also send several medical UN teams to assist with the clear up.

Hacked into Praetonian TVs : "Are you afraid yet?" the same Jaxus Nine terrorist group leader with the same suit & ski mask and the same XR-2 asks in a deadly voice.Sarzo grimaced as he watched the terrorist group leader flash on his screen. It had been several hours since the broadcast occurred, but Sarzo was getting the feed for the first time on the Praetonian news channel that came in on the cable network.

He picked up the phone to call Intelligence Chief Jamie Stone. She answered the phone, "This is Jamie."

"Jamie, it's Mike."

"What can I do for you?"

"Did you see that broadcast on the Praetonian news channel?"

"Yes. As soon as the attacks started happening, we initiated a full monitoring of the channel for any intel we could use."

"What'd you find?"

"So far, it's pretty sketchy. But we're chasing all possible leads."

"Are you going to do something about that broadcast?"

"We're going to try to run a trace on the broadcast origin, but since the feed is second hand from Praetonia, we're going to have to figure out a way to trace using the direct feed."

"How much time do you think?"

"If we get the direct feed, maybe 24 to 48 hours. Otherwise, it could take weeks."

"Stay on it Jamie. As soon as we have evidence, we're going to have to strike and strike hard."

"You got it Mike." They hung up their phones, and Sarzo slumped into his chair, staring contemplatively at the wall.

Stone rewound the tape of the broadcast looking for clues that could help pinpoint the location.

Just hours ago, an entire army, consisting of 100,000 men, all armed to the teeth with weaponry and armor, dropped in Praetonia, to help any other forces keep the peace.

A telegram to Praetonia read:

Leader of Praetonia,

The nation of Alla Xul has sent its troops to help, in hopes of keeping your nation together, and forming an alliance between us. When this is all over, we trust you will not forget our efforts.

Crucian Killman,
Dictator of Alla Xul

Just hours ago, an entire army, consisting of 100,000 men, all armed to the teeth with weaponry and armor, dropped in Praetonia, to help any other forces keep the peace.

A telegram to Praetonia read:

Leader of Praetonia,

The nation of Alla Xul has sent its troops to help, in hopes of keeping your nation together, and forming an alliance between us. When this is all over, we trust you will not forget our efforts.

Crucian Killman,
Dictator of Alla Xul

I don`t think he need troops, what he really needs is medical supplies and qeuippment, doctors, nurses, specialists and so on

http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=364712

I urge nations to stop giving aide to Praetonia, or this will happen to you too.

Alexander, Minister of Military action, slammed his fist into his desk. "Damnit, the terrorists are spreading to those who help."

He thought to himself for a moment, before sighing and grabbing the phone. "Hello, communications office? Yes, get me in touch with Tykneth and Gedralto. Tell them I need some troops, and FAST!"

OOC: Paranioa is its own reward! Don't worry, I am not godmoding, just being cautious.

OOC: That could be interpreted as an open declaration of war given your description Alla Xul; "armed to the teeth..." doesn't usually sit well with a defenseless and paranoid population ravaged by panic.

IC:

-SID-8 Headquarters, Schultaria Prime

Central Director Schultz had been briefed well in advance about the situation unfolding in Praetonia, however, it troubled him that such a close nation could be attacked with little provocation. As he marched briskly through the white nondescript corridors of Schultarian Intelligence, a woman waited for his arrival at the end of the hall. Professional in all manners, she nodded in acknowledgement of his arrival and presented him with an orange box no larger than a book of matches.

"Your security key sir. Even th..."

"I know, even though I'm the leader of Schultaria Prime there are some things that even I don't know. Yes, I understand that Chief Markom, but we don't have much time for the proper security semantics. Since you are the leader of Schultarian Intelligence, I'll not doubt your judgment," Elliot retorted, smiling.

The Chief broke her demeanor enough to present a smile for a moment, and then resumed her steadfast appearance. As the large steel doors of the elevator opened, Elisia Markom presented Elliot with a data pad. "This is what we currently have been able to gather about the Praetonia incident. Needless to say, our intelligence is not very complete on the matter, but we do have some definitive possibilities as to who might have struck against our fellow allies."

Central Director Schultz tilted his head, "And what exactly would you require to make a firm connection, and how soon could we pursue these agents?"

"All we need is a sample of the bio-toxin currently in play, three minutes of live radio feed from the terrorist organizations currently hijacking the Praetonian media, and some intelligence support from our closer allies."

OOC: That could be interpreted as an open declaration of war given your description Alla Xul; "armed to the teeth..." doesn't usually sit well with a defenseless and paranoid population ravaged by panic.

Point, but the soldiers are trained to protect the civilians, the actions will prove the intentions... plus, they are willing to give their lives to protect and help Praetonia.

As nightfall descended upon Woodstock, President Mike Sarzo fidgeted for a moment at his desk. No matter how many times he addressed the nation on television, each time he had to do it gave him the chills. Looking calm amid a crisis or in spite of his nerves took a lot of effort.

"Thirty seconds," the camerawoman said.

Great, Sarzo thought. Just what I need. Thousands of thought were running through his head, the devastation in Praetonia, the mourning of the Sarzonian people, the terrorist group that was threatening to attack not only Praetonia, but her friends as well. The more the temerity of the theats came to his mind, the more stern his resolve.

"And you're on in 5, 4, 3, 2..."

"My fellow Sarzonians. In the last few days, you have witnessed several cowardly acts by the Jaxus Nine. The group is responsible for the destruction of a building in Praetonia and the infestation of the smallpox virus currently affecting the population.

"If that were not enough, the organization has also attacked Exetonia Minor for the crime of aiding Praetonia at their hour of need. They have now seen fit to threaten all countries that come to her aid.

"Make no mistake about it: We Sarzonians are not impressed by these threats and we view them as an affront to free people everywhere. I am asking Parliament for the authorization to use whatever means necessary to end the threat presented by Jaxus Nine. I am also asking that our terror alert system be elevated to red alert [OOC: My system's the same as the U.S. color code system, except there's a Purple Alert that's above Red]. We will go about our daily lives without interruption; however, no foreign-based aircraft will be allowed into Sarzonia without a full inspection of all persons and cargo.

"I now address the coward who calls himself the 'leader' of Jaxus Nine. We will find you and we will make you pay for your insolence. Mark my words.

"We will cooperate fully with our allies and with anyone who seeks the elimination of Jaxus Nine as a threat."

Telegram:

To: Sarzo, leader of Sarzonia
From: Alexander Reynold, Minister of Military action

Alla Xul offers its military services to the destruction of the Jaxus Nine. We are at your command when Praetonia is back up and running."

The Dominion of Godular pledges any aid deemed necessary by Praetonia, and is also willing to dedicate whatever military resources are necessary in regards to finding and eliminating the leader of the Jaxus Nine Terrorist Faction.

The Nation of Tylinoa will send food, medicine, and troops if needed to protect your boarders. If you need tropps we will send some please let us know and right now we are send over 2 Tylinoa Corvette Navy Ships full of food and medicine.




Tyler Turner,
The President of Tylinoa
The Federation of Tylinoa

Tylinoa National News is holding a rally for donations towards the current events of Praetonia and the nation of Langola has donated $14,698,959,313.50 and is being wired to you as we speak.



TNN News Staff

Nutropinia has also now donated 15 billion USD to you in this time of need and is being wired.


TNN News Staff

[[Whooey! Now, which one of you brave nations is willing to let Jaxus Nine attack you? (or at least try) Include messenger name. I have all the messengers.]]

Alliance (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=364738)

Here is the link to the "Counter-Nine" alliance against the Jaxus Nine Terrorist Organization.

[[Whooey! Now, which one of you brave nations is willing to let Jaxus Nine attack you? (or at least try) Include messenger name. I have all the messengers.]]

OOC: Do you have YIM? I'd be willing to 'host' a terror attack.

OOC: Do you have YIM? I'd be willing to 'host' a terror attack.

[[Yup, whats yours?]]

OOC: Check TGs.

IDF will not fall for terrorist threats and will continue to support our ally. We are please to announce that the telethon raised 7.5 billion dollars and the government will pay two times that amount in additional aid for a total of $22.5 billion as a gift to Praetonia.

If asked, we will send some MPs to help keep order.

As for the threats against us. I wouldn't think it wise to attack me. IDF is very good at stopping terrorist attacks as we stopped Palestinian terrorists for decades and are very well trained. Besides it is very difficult to gain entry to IDF as we are very paranoid from decades of terrorism.

If we are attacked, you will deal with the wrath of the Israeli military and people.

[[Whooey! Now, which one of you brave nations is willing to let Jaxus Nine attack you? (or at least try) Include messenger name. I have all the messengers.]]

[OOC: If you're willing to RP a failed attack, I'll TG you my AIM.]

OOC: Sorry for not posting on this for a while. The first night I was too busy and then the second my computer crashed for no reason (as those who were having IM convos with me at the time will have realised). I dont really have much time tonight either, but I want to keep this going so:

IC:

Imperial Government - Home Office - Guidlines on the Sending of Aid

Preface

The Democratic Imperium and every one of her citizens are most grateful for the kindness that you have all shown to Praetonia in her hour of need, by means of offering to dispatch help.

We do not dain to demand of our allies that help is provided. We are not people who would demand that foreign powers send men to their possible deaths for us. Please do not feel in any way obliged to send help.

What we Need

The kind of aid that the Democratic Imperium requires at this time is medical supplies and food, personel and doctors. We require to be able to keep our nation afloat while merchant traffic has come to a standstill. We require survival, and nothing more. We are not out for vengance.

Restrictions

We will not accept military forces to enter our nation, other than to attend to the sick and help to run vital emergency services. We will not permit the servicemen of any nation other than our own to bear arms against Praetonian citizens except in self-defence. We are perfectly capable of mantaining order in our own nation, and as such do not require anyone's help.

Any ship, plane or piece of equipment that enters Praetonia may not leave. The risk of spreading the diease is far too great. All equipment, once used, will be sterilised in gamma radiation and then destroyed. All ships or planes which land will also be steralised, and then an assesment will be made as to whether or not there is a risk that the disease may be transmitted in such equipment. Even so, no planes or ships may leave Praetonia until after the virus is contained.

No personel may leave Praetonia unless first quarantined for 150% of the maximum incubation time of smallpox. The risk of infection spreading is too great to do anything else. If you do not qish this to happen to your people or hardware, then do not send aid.

OOC: Everyone please RP their aid and what it's doing. I would like to have posted more but i dont have time. I'll post again tomorrow.

Sarzo read the communication from Praetonia and shook his head.

They don't see the public opinion polls here, do they, he thought, asking a question he already knew the answer to. Seventy eight percent of Sarzonians said helping Praetonia was "the highest priority" for the government. In a poll where the margin for error was no more than three percent, that number was a mandate.

With those numbers ringing in their heads, a multipartisan, bicameral committee met to discuss the aid package that would be sent to Praetonia.

"The people have spoken," Sen. Alex Looney said. "The only question is to what degree we help them."

"I think we should send over $100 billion U.S. in aid," Del. Sidney Burleson said. The Jaxus Nine is going to require our military be on full alert and we need to be ready to strike them once we find out where they're hiding."

"No offense, but $100 billion is pocket change compared to the trillions of dollars it's going to require to contain that virus and feed and comfort those people," Sen. Alan Rodgers said. "We'd be the laughing stocks of the international community. One hundred billion dollars for one of our closest allies? You have to be kidding me. We shouldn't send any less that $1 trillion."

"And risk bankrupting ourselves to save Praetonia? And who's going to come to our aid when our economy goes into the septic tank," Burleson responded.

"Look, there's no need for this," House Speaker Josh Williams said. "How about some other figures than $100 billion or $1 trillion?"

"Two hundred billion, not a penny more," Burleson said.

"Eight hundred billion, not a penny less," Rodgers said.

"Two hundred fifty billion," Looney said.

"Then the deal's off," Rodgers said.

"Wait a minute," Williams said. "You're going to risk a lynching in Woodstock over a dollar amount? You'd better rethink that."

The haggling went on for another 30 minutes until finally they settled on $500 billion in immediate aid, plus regular shipments of food and supplies. Convoys of 40 merchant ships at a time would be sent over with escorts by squadrons of Sarzonian warships, which would stand outside in international waters while the civilian vessels brought their foodstuffs to Praetonians who needed it.

"What are we going to do about the quarantine?"

"We're going to have everyone wearing full protective gear as soon as they enter Praetonian waters. I want the Praetonians to coordinate how they want the aid disbursed," Williams said.

"That works for us," the committee said in unison.

The bill easily passed Parliament and Sarzo signed it into law without the pomp and circumstance usually attendant upon such bills.

"I'll discuss all the details with the Praetonian ambassador to Sarzonia," Sarzo said. "I'll let him be the point of contact for their government."

[OOC: Just to keep me from typing the next War and Peace, assume that you know $500 billion, 40 merchant ships and 12 hospital ships will be on their way to you. We'll also send over shipments at regular intervals to keep people alive.]

Under the new restrictions, the 183rd MASH NBC Battalion is airdropped into Praetonia, equipment and all. As this is a situation they are trained to do anyway, it is of no great consequence to alter the method of arrival.

In addition, the freighters Quancho and Seabreeze arrive in Praetorian port, both heavily laiden with immediate relief supplies - food, symptomatic medications, IV fluids. Both are of the older Demeter type, and while seaworthy and huge, both were scheduled for recycling anyway. It is suggested both be converted into charnel houses and incinerated if the situation with bodies becomes difficult.

In any case, both are already considered "lost".

Both freighters crews are skeleton, and will join the 183rd MASH NBC. They arrive in full NBC gear.

Vastiva will be airdropping additional shipments of food and medication every two days for the next eight months; these stores come from the Sisu Arshu and Pangea colonies, and as such will not be burdensome or an endangerment to the Vastivan people.

OOC: vastiva, have you posted in our thread thing?

IC:

Serafima will send aid,medical assistance etc, we just need confirmation and we will be out there as quickly as possible

Morgaine La Tissier & Lilac Overleigh

Diplomatic note cabled to Praetonia and also delivered to their ambassador in New Shiron

To the Democratic Imperium of Praetonia
From Her Majesty Queen Gabrielle of New Shiron

We have assembled a team of experienced men and women doctors (12 in all)from all over our country to provide assistance to you in this terrible time. They are volunteers, all over 50, and they are very aware at the potential cost of this mission. They are also aware, as am I, what the potential costs to everyone should this tragedy reoccur elsewhere or spread somehow from you land.

attached is their credentials (ooc, all are teachers or public health doctors with backgrounds in epidemelogy or internal medicine, not Nobel prize winnes, but good qualified doctors all)

In addition, a 30,000 GRT ton container ship with a volunteer crew and a cargo of medical supplies (primarily basic things like scrubs, masks, IV kits, etc). Just before the ship reaches your shores, an escorting Coast Guard cutter will evacuate the crew except for a few personnel who have volunteered to take it in. These men are also volunteers, and are aware that this mission will probably cost them their lives.

We regret that we cannot do more at this time, but we will try to come up with more assistance as we can.

Sincerely,

Gabrielle Danielle O'Connor, Queen of New Shiron

"So what does that mean to us?" the Grand Duke asks the assembled members of the Cabinet.

Raising his hand, Defense Minister Lord Phillip Rosecrans addresses the Cabinet. "We'll just have to leave the cargo containers in Praetonia. The Airship crew modules are completely NBC sealed and all crew members are in full NBC gear. We'll move several Airships into Praetonia itself to ferry supplies while the bulk of the Airships detached for this operation will unload onto waiting roll-on, roll-off cargo ships. The ships will come to the edge of Praetonian waters, then come near the coast where the Airships confined to Praetonia will be based."

"I'd recommend that we use the Regional Security and Compliance Force. We can enforce a Quarantine of Praetonia. If anything contaminated manages to leave Praetonia the welfare of the entire region could be at risk." Foreign Minister Ziller, via satellite phone, communicated.

"Alright..." the Grand Duke sighed, "However, since the RSCF hasn't gotten off the ground, we're going to have to take wholesale donations. Phillip, what can we spare?"

Flicking on a display screen, Lord Rosecrans quickly surveys a list of available military units. "We can deploy Missile Airship Wings 17, 23, and 40 from bases in Oltremare. We can also use long range bombers to maintain the Quarantine. Given enough time, I can also move up several Carrier Battle Groups."

"The Praetonian's won't exactly be happy about this?" Prime Minister Olendorf said in a rather off-handed tone.

"Praetonia is part of the region, an outbreak of this scale not only effect Praetonia but all of us. The safety of Hamptonshire itself could be compromised. The RCSF is acting for the good of the region." the Grand Duke sternly retorted.

Hoping the diffuse a potentially difficult situation Sir Leonard Berkstein, Minister of Health and Domestic Security, politely interrupted the Prime Minister. "Perhaps we should return to the matter of aide?"

"Right. What do we have available?" the Reginald asked.

"Since the Praetonians did not institute large scale vaccination, we can transfer several million doses of small pox vaccine...let's see...we can make available 117 million doses within 3 months."

"What about food and water?" Lord Rosecrans asks.

Accessing the exact figures on his laptop, Sir Leonard answers, "We have enough surplus manufacturing capacity to make available enough Royal Army Field Rations to feed 14 million people for 3 months. If we dip into our own reserves we can supply 120 million people with food for no more than 30 months. Anything more than that and we'll be cutting into our primary reserves. Luckily our desalination plants on the west coast of Oltremare are operating at higher than expected efficiency levels. Our ability to transport drinking water is hindered only by what we can transport."

Over the satellite phone: "What about our medical personnel?"

"I'll take this one, Lenny." Rosecrans butts in, "We're going to have to ask the Praetonians exactly who they need and where they are needed. It's a somewhat fortunate thing that Lord Easton was in Praetonia at the time of the attack conducting his yearly review of our regional allies."

Standing, Grand Duke Reginald Leopold ends the meeting. "So we are agreed gentlemen, we start moving in food, water, and medical supplies; we activate the RCSF and Lord Easton is our man on the ground."


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

Message Broadcast on All Major Frequencies

This is the Grand Duke Reginald Leopold I of Hamptonshire. At this time the regional government of The New Commonwealth, through the Regional Security and Compliance Force, is placing Praetonia under a Full and Indefinite Quarantine.

Any unauthorized vessels, planes, or personnel entering or leaving the Praetonian Quarantine Zone will be detained and/or destroyed with only two warnings. The PQZ shall extend to an area 125 NM off the coast of Praetonia.

As Secretary of Justice of the Regional Government, the Grand Duchy of Hamptonshire acts as Director of the RCSF. Due to internal regional concerns, at this time regional miltiary units are being used in the capacity of the RCSF.

Regional Code: Chapter Seventeen
Section Five: Powers of the RSCF

The RSCF shall have the power to board and search any vessel, aircraft, vehicle, or person inside of regional territory without habeas corpus. The RSCF shall also have the power to detain any vessel, aircraft, vehicle, or person as necessary. Foreign owned vessels and aircraft may be deported from regional waters by the RSCF. The RSCF shall also have sole law enforcement power in regional transportation corridors.

Any foreign vessels attempting to enter or leave Praetonia without the authorization of the RCSF will be detained when possible, destroyed if necessary. All foreign owned vessels leaving Praetonia will be boarded, all foreign owned aircraft will be diverted to the Prince Ulrich Royal Air Force Base on the northwestern coast of Oltremare Province. Fuel costs for those airplanes diverted to Prince Ulrich RAFB will be reimbursed by the Regional Government.

The crisis in Praetonia is a threat to the health of tens of billions of people that call The New Commonwealth home; we will not let a single innocent die.


OOC: Map of The New Commonwealth (http://www.freewebs.com/newcommonwealth/regionalmap.htm)

OOC: I can't believe I missed this.
IC
Prince Piotr Ivanov of Chardonay very slowly opened his clenched fists and placed them on the table. They didn't even quiver... rock steady. Not bad for a 70 year old man. He looked up at the Honorable Charles Cuthburt, Minister of Justice. "Who did this?"

"A group calling themselves Jaxus Nine. We don't have much information about their methods, but they did decapitate a government that aided Praetonia."

"Motive?"

"None we've been able to track."

"Dammit, we can NOT ALLOW THIS SORT OF THING TO OCCUR IN THE NEW COMMONWEALTH!.... How many other New Commonwealth Nations have responded."

"To the best of our knowledge, only Japanese States and Hamptonshire. The grand duke, unfortunately, has also quarantined Praetonia and deployed the RSCF."

Ivanov frowned, "But no one has actually deployed any forces to the RSCF."

"Hamptonshire has," grimaced Cuthbert. "Hamptonian units operating under regional colors have been deployed... currently it's fairly low level, but they seem insistent on maintaining the quarantine."

"Dammit... they can't simply unilaterally decide that... Here's what we do. Dispatch the First Expeditionary Fleet, they will help maintain the blockade and make sure that Hamptonshire doesn't interfere unnecessarily. I'm not saying I don't trust them... of course I trust them. But I want Chardonayan vessels on station to make sure everything's going properly. Dispatch some hospital ships too... and three medical battalions. Make sure you get Hamptonshire's permission first...we don't want to violate their cordon and accidentally get shot down. For the medical battalions and vessels, make sure that they are all volunteers and have been inoculated against Smallpox, and configure the Ar-7s for humanitarian work... bring up as much vaccine as we have. I know we have quite a bit left over from Nicholai the Mad... we need to begin inoculating the people of Praetonia... also offer it to any members of EF-1 who want it. And start mass-producing it. I imagine we will need more by the time this is over."

"Yes sire. Of course. And on the domestic front?"

"I'll leave that in your capable hands. You know what to do... tighten everything. And bring all the Royal Inquisitors back on active duty... I'll need all twelve of them riding herd on the port inspectors. Oh... and I know you're going to discuss this with Shirley... do whatever you think appropriate. I don't want to know about it though. But kill these bastards for me."

Cuthbert smiled slightly. His subordinate, Shirley Markowitz, Director of Operations for the Ministry of Justice was known to have contacts in... unsavory organizations.

"Of course sire."

OOC: Ditto, great way to open back up after a stupid friend got me a 2 week ban... =/

IC:

The rumble of thunder inaudible from the safety of the Throne Room, nestled inside of the Royal Palace. Rain pattered continually against the thick plexi-glass skylight, adding a comforting rhythm to the palace atmosphere.

But there was nothing comforting about Queen Sarah III's fury at the recent news.

"Why wasn't I informed of this earlier?!" she shouted. Despite her old age--having reached 68 just two months earlier--she retained a great amount of her vitality, as was obvious by the volume of her voice and wild gestures.

The Minister of Regional Affairs, Hokoro Damuki, began to speak. "Your Majesty, we had more important things, such as th-"

"I don't care what else is going on," she interrupted Damuki sharply. "This crisis does not just belong to the Praetonian people, all of the New Commonwealth may be in danger. Minister Nakumo, what resources can Tenarius lend to Praetonia's aid?"

Katsuka Nakumo, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Queen's Aide, cleared her throat and activated her PDA. "We have enough vaccine on hand to innoculate 37 million people in 2 months, if we pull out of our personal reserves we can innoculate another 65 million before the year is done. We can supply fresh water and food supplies to approximately 44 million people for three months without draining our personal reserves."

Sarah nodded softly, "and what about medical personell?" She inquired.

Nakumo checked it again. "We can send in 2,500 military emergency troops with medical supplies within the month. I can probably get the War Department to raise another 10,000 before the year is out. Shall I contact Hamptonshire in order to recieve clearance?"

The Queen pursed her lips, in obvious contemplation. Finally she nodded and said, "Very well, give them what we can, raise up what little more you find. Now if you will excuse me, I'm tired and I could use a spot of rest."

With that, the meeting ended, the ministers dispersed and the Queen returned to her bedchambers for the night. 21 minutes later, a coded message was sent to the Grand Duchy of Hamptonshire.


----- ----- -----
To: The Grand Duchy of Hamptonshire
From: The Royal States of Tenarius
Subject: Praetonian Crisis

Tenarius has opted to donate personell and supplies to the RCSF. Without a proper navy it will be easier to bring them via our fleet of Ar-1 Air Freighters, but otherwise we will have to borrow ships from New Kaland. We are prepared to send 2,500 emergency personell within the week, enough vaccine for 37 million people, and enough food to feed 132 million people for a single month. Until such time as the crisis is deemed over, these men and supplies are under full control of the RCSF.*

I hope we may be of aid in this time of trouble.

Katsuka Nakumo
Minister of Foreign Affairs

The Royal States of Tenarius
The New Commonwealth
Secretary of Foreign Affairs

Missive from Chardonay to Tenarius:

Chardonayan military freighters are available if you wish to use them, along with further Ar-1 transports if you find your airlift capacity is insufficient. Of course, this service will be provided gratis.

Strategos Karpov,
Commander in Chief of all Chardonayan Forces

Response to Chardonay:

Tenarius thanks you, currently our own Ar-1's will be sufficient, but with further troops being allocated soon, we may need more transportation needs. Your kind offer is noted by the people of Tenarius.

Katsuka Nakumo
Minister of Foreign Affairs

In an effortto keepyour nation on it`s legs, we are willing to let our merchant vessels start to aiding your merchant navy. We can also bring vast ammounts of food to you. If you need,we can send people so that your ports can recive shipments of supplies.

As we speak, 3 supertankers filled with supplies,has left vesternstates and is en route to you.
They will be followed by smaller vessels withoil, gas and so on.

Also, the vlolenteers has started their work to locate contanimated buildings.
Medical corps is working around the clock to helt sick people.

In Vestern States, sceintists is working non-stor in order to develope some kind of "anti-dot" against the desease

TV-shows is gathering meney to aid your population.

The President's face turned red, "Why wasn't I informed of this disaster earlier?"

"It was unconfirmed. We are now being told by our own military forces in Praetonia that the attack did occur. And not only that, it was very severe too."

"God.. How are our soldiers coping?"

"Well, they're thirty miles east of Praextremis. They are on full alert, ready to evacuate the base if necessary."

"NBC gear?"

"Yes.. They do have NBC gear."

"Scrap any plan to evacuate the base."

"But.."

"No buts. Deploy 300 more elite marines to our base, fully prepared for the worst. I want our troops in Praetonia to help in the clean-up efforts."

"Your risking their lives, Mr. President! These men have families!"

"I know. But Praetonia is one of our closest allies. It is our duty to help them."

"I guess.. what else do you want us to ship over there?"

"Airdrop medical supplies and sealed foods into our base. Let our military distribute them."

"Money?"

"I want you to start drafting a bill to authorize sending a generous amount of money to Praetonia."

"What are we talking about here?"

"I don't know. Get the cabinet together. And when I say generous, I mean generous.."

"Yes, sir."

<Four hours later>


TO: Prime Minister Sarius Publius, Praetonia
FR: President Ahmed Byrnashty, Greenmanbry
RE: Terrorist Attack

The Dominion wishes to send its condolences to you and the people of your great nation for the cowardly terrorist attack on your nation. We fully realize the gravity of the situation over at Praetonia, and wish to help you as much as possible.

I have ordered the fifth division over at Greenmanbry's base east of Praextremis to aid in the clean-up and decontamination efforts, and have ordered the Defense Ministry to deploy more troops to our base to aid our soldiers in the mammoth task ahead of them.

We shall send medical supplies and foodstuffs to Praetonia, and Parliament has agreed to give your nation a total sum of $500 billion to help you overcome this tragedy as soon as possible.

Our men realize the risks involved in this endeavor, and they will not back down. They are determined to help Praetonia, and so is this Dominion.

God speed.

Chardonay currently has an effective, if somewhat out of date vaccine for Smallpox. It is 97% effective at preventing a lethal infection of smallpox for those who are not yet affected, and somewhat less effective at curing those who are already infected. Almost everyone suffers a slight reaction to the vaccine at the site of injection - this is normal and a sign that it has taken effect. This irritation should last no more than 25 days. Approximately 0.1% of the people who take the vaccine will suffer a severe but non-life threatening reaction to the vaccine. 0.005% may suffer from a potentially life threatening infection, and 0.0002% may die from the vaccine. Still, this is far superior to the chances of survival if the vaccine is not taken. It confers immunity for 4 years and resistance for an aditional 2, but subsiquent doses will dramatically improve protection.

While imperfect, this vaccine is the best we have at the moment. We are willing to provide the recipe and production rights to any nation for the express use in the disaster in Praetonia.

Once we have samples of the precise strain in Praetonia, we should within weeks be able to deploy a more effective 'tailored' version of the vaccine.

Chardonay currently has an effective, if somewhat out of date vaccine for Smallpox. It is 97% effective at preventing a lethal infection of smallpox for those who are not yet affected, and somewhat less effective at curing those who are already infected. Almost everyone suffers a slight reaction to the vaccine at the site of injection - this is normal and a sign that it has taken effect. This irritation should last no more than 25 days. Approximately 0.1% of the people who take the vaccine will suffer a severe but non-life threatening reaction to the vaccine. 0.005% may suffer from a potentially life threatening infection, and 0.0002% may die from the vaccine. Still, this is far superior to the chances of survival if the vaccine is not taken. It confers immunity for 4 years and resistance for an aditional 2, but subsiquent doses will dramatically improve protection.

While imperfect, this vaccine is the best we have at the moment. We are willing to provide the recipe and production rights to any nation for the express use in the disaster in Praetonia.

Please transmit immediately to the 183rd MASH NBC Battalion, currently in Praetonia. They have on site facilities to implement production.

Vastiva will commit to further production and airdropping of vaccine.

We have complied. Cultures to facilitate the production of the vaccine should arrive in 7 hours (OOC it's a fairly short flight... same region) with the leading elements of the 0612 0812 and 1012 Medical Battalions.

We must remind all nations offering assistance to comply with RSCF regulations and orders... while treating the situation in Praetonia is of utmost importance, preventing further spread of the epidemic and neutralizing any further terrorist threats must have hightest priority.

DCS News@6:

We now go live to a press conference being held at The DCS Senate by President Dave Hunter SSc BSc:

"People of Praetonia, we have heard of the devastating attack on your land and are very concerned for the current situation. We, the people of DaveCalibra States, have expressed our disbelief that the terrorist group known as "Jaxus Nine", have struck in a very heartless, and, for want of a better word, cowardly attack in the capital city. As of immediately, with the help of the international community, we hope to airdrop medical supplies necessary to stop the current outbreak. Furthermore, we send our condolences to the bereaved and hope in the future, that the worldwide collaboration continues forever more. That is the end of the statement, any questions from the media are advised that the conference will continue in 15 minutes, so keep a hold of them for now. That is all.

Coming up, purple cars. Funky or a health hazard? Next on DCS News@6.

Oak Hill Naval Station

The nine cramped NBC citadels, massive underground structures of steel and concrete, were filled to the notch, as nearly all military personnel had been evacuated into these strongholds. Outside, the vast tarmac was desolated and only a few motionless bodies, strapped into tightfitting black bodybags, had their faces turned skyward.

The immense docking facilities, including giant 300 tonnes rated cargo cranes and flooded drydocks, were deserted, only a few small coastal patrol boats and a pair of Swordfish Class Missile Corvettes moored alongside the giant piers.

On the small airfield, her newly contructed hangars and control towers abandoned by the ground crewmen, silence engulfed the rest of the surrounding rural areas, normally violently disturbed by the sound of roaring aircraft engines and the penetrating smell of jetfuel. A trio of C-75A STOL Transport Aircraft and five G450 Gulfstream VIP Transport Aircraft were parked on their ramp space in front of their assigned hangars, small tractors and cargo trolleys littering the adjacing grounds.

In NBC Citadel Alpha, located at the heart of the base, Major-General Samir Aziz stared at the readout he had just received, his hands shaking.

"They want me to do what?"

Major Omar Al-Whalid depressed a deep sigh and answered:

"I told you three times, Sir, they want...."

"Yeah, yeah, I meant just that this assignment fills me with disgust, but I'm not mad enough to insubordinate this direct order. Brief one of the MP squads, tell 'em to empty storage freezing cells, burn everything organical, and stash in a single infected body,"

"Yes Sir. On my way,"

Open Message to All Nations

All vessels entering Praetonian waters will be stopped and boarded by RSCF Personnel at the 125 NM mark at which time an inspection of the vessel and verification of registration will occur. Vessels will then be escorted by an RSCF vessel to the 50 NM mark. All vessels leaving Praetonian waters will be stopped and boarded at the 50 NM mark and will be escorted by an RSCF vessel to the 125 NM mark. Any attempts to circumvent the security procedures of the Regional Security and Compliance Force will be met with extreme prejudice.

All aircraft bound for Praetonia must have been previously cleared by the RSCF. Aircraft will be escorted from the 125 NM mark to the 50 NM mile. Aircraft leaving Praetonia will be escorted from the 50 NM mark to Prince Ulrich RAFB.



OOC: This means RP your aide coming by air or by sea.

We agree to those rules, Our freigthers will be escorted by Vestern States Frigates until releaved by your navy.
Our sailors are instructed to help make your work as good as possible
-------------------------------------------------
Meanwhile, in the "zone"

Two young medics from Medical Corp were in an field hospital, taking care of a patient.

"What do you think" medical corpral Jones asked hic partner Jenn
"Well, i think he survives" she replied
"They are really making sure that no one leaves the nation"
"Thats good, nobody wants this to spread" Jenn said
"I heard that our airforce dropped another load of supplies today" Jones said
"They also told me that our nation has started to send shipments over-sea now" he continued
"Really?!" Jenn replied exited
"Yes, i think that we could expect some more supplies to these poor people"

The two medics continued with their work
------------------------------------------------

Telegram to the Praetonian goverment:

"We are willing to move recovering patients to our hospitals on in order to make room for more sick people.
We are full aware that you don`t want the desease to spread, therefor, we have isolated the hospitals.
Persons not wearing full NBC-protection suits are not allowe closer than 5km from the hospitals.

If you allow us, we can take some pressure from your own hospitals.
If you want, Praetonian guards can come with them."

The first convoy of 40 merchant ships and a separate convoy of 12 Pasteur-class hospital ships departed from Nicksia in the early morning hours. The newly-christened light carrier Sedona led the escorting squadron on its way and the combined total of 78 ships set sail for Praetonian waters.

Commodore Brynne Napier fidgeted in the command chair aboard the Sedona. She asked to leave her job in the legal division of the Navy to command the squadron, so this was a new experience for her. The Sedona normally carried 40 fighters, but this time, it only carried 22. Two McVie-class light carriers carried 15 fighters each instead of their normal complement of 20. The rest of the space was devoted to aircraft selected for their ability to carry and deliver cargo to Praetonia.

"Commodore, are you aware of the restrictions placed on by the Regional Security and Compliance Force," Captain Katie Patinkin radioed from her seat aboard the light carrier Mesopotamia.

Napier sighed.

"I am, Captain. We intend to cooperate fully with the restrictions." No matter how much I'd want to tell those assholes to shove it, she thought. She made no secret to those in her inner circle of advisors of her disdain for Hamptonshire in recent months. As much as she might have liked to stare them down, she would have to cooperate or risk a bloody confrontation that Sarzonia could ill afford.

"Notify me when we are at the 150 nautical mile mark," Napier said. "Then contact the RSCF and allow them to board the merchant ships if they choose. We will stay outside the barrier imposed by the Hamptonians."

"But sir, won't we be needed to escort the shipments into the zone," Lt. Commander Gregory Ruskin said. He was the nephew of former Vice Admiral Clay Ruskin, the man whose infamous mutiny was still the talk of the Sarzonian navy. However, his relationship with his uncle had been strained for years. He volunteered to serve with Commodore Napier since he respected her far more than he did his own uncle.

"I'd rather not deal with those bastards any more than I absolutely have to," Napier snarled. Ruskin's eyes widened slightly. He knew she disliked Hamptonshire, but didn't realize the extent until she uttered that sentence. He turned around, opened his mouth just slightly and said, "aye, sir."

Someone must have gotten up on the wrong side of the bed this morning, he thought. He wondered how the logistics of Sarzonian aid would be affected if Napier were unwilling to work with the authorities from Hamptonshire. It'd be a lot easier if Praetonia were administering this quarantine themselves, he thought. Apparently, Navy Chief Kathy Bunhall was expecting them to, which was why she chose Napier. Otherwise, she might have gone for Admiral Patinkin.

The Sedona and the rest of the fleet continued steaming toward Praetonia with the civilian and military staff each rehearsing different scenarios in their minds as the hours wore on. From Napier's point of view, the hours seemed like days.

The Imperial Parliament was packed to the brim. Unlike almost any other time, the House was full, and none of the MPs were asleep or drunk. Outside the building, several companies of Imperial Horseguards stood sentry. Since that first night of infection there had been no instances of civil unrest, but in the affected areas of Praextremis, the Imperial Guard had been forced to open fire on citizens with rubber bullets in order to prevent them from breaking through the security cordon.

"Madame Speaker, Honourable Members. Our nation is stricken by disease. Our people are dying in droves. Praetonians live in fear. Why then, my Right Honourable friends, does Hamptonshire blockade us? Why, in our hour of need, do they slow down the arrival of aid? Why do our allies, indeed I say allies but who else has 'allies' who invade their colonies, do this, and yet the government says nothing!" The MP in question, a Nationalist Party member, sat down to wiped spread agreement from both benches.

"Hear, hear!" Shouted a Liberal-Imperialist MP, "Praetonia is a leading naval power in the region yet these Hamptonians do not even trust us to mantain our own laws in this matter. We did not stand by their sides over Europe, only for another betrayal!" More cheering met the MP's comment. Prime Minister Sarius Publius greatly valued relations with Hamptonshire, and so he was willing to overlook their 'faults', but he was not a President, and the House certainly stood against him in this matter.

"Therefore," the first MP had stood up again. He waited for the clamouring to die down a little before continuing, "therefore I hearby table a Free Member's Bill, stating that Praetonia recognises the Hamptonian force as a blockading one and not a 'quarantining' one, that Praetonia does not recognise the blockading force as of the New Commonwealth, as it was first imposed unilaterally by Hamptonshire, but as Hamptonian, and that no Praetonian merchant or warship will allow itself to be boarded whilst attempting to leave it's own homeland.

"Madame Speaker, we have been very, very patient with these people, but I for one will not stand by as our so called 'allies' cause the deaths of hundreds, nay, thousands of our citizens!"

The house exploded in applause. Most of the members stood up to clap. Sarius Publius sat sullen faced on the front bench on the government side. 'This isn't good.' he thought to himself, 'but democracy never is predictable'. He sighed, and stood up to speak against the bill.

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

The Speaker of the House walked steadly up the steps to her platform at the front of the Basillica-like room. The entire House was waiting with bated breath for the results of the bill. A lot had changed since the bill was first proposed - Sarius Publius was an eloquent speaker who had swayed many MPs - but whichever way this went, it would have far-reaching implications on Praetonia's stance on the 'Hamptonshire Issue'.

"Condemnation on Action Against Hamptonshire - Private Member's Bill - Ionius Flavius, MP, Praetonian Nationalist Party. Votes in favour: 357. Votes opposing: 343. I declare the Bill defeated by 6 votes."

The House sighed. Some in relief, others in frustration that the supposedly fiercely patriotic Liberal-Imperialists again refused to act against Hamptonshire.

RSCF personnel began their quick inspections of the incomming Vesternan and other nation's ships and aircraft.. Flying in by helicopter, the personnel would check the ship's registry, confirm the ship's identity, and visually inspect the cargo. A team of 10 "Enforcement Officers" could complete their mission in less than an hour. An entire convoy of medical vessels would spend no more than two hours under investigation.

Ships donated by Chardonnay would patrol the north, the Phoenixian 8th Fleet would patrol the west and southwest, and the Hamptonian 5th Fleet would take the east and southeast. The Regional Security and Compliance Forces was finally doing its job; ensuring the security and stablity of The New Commonwealth.

In order to ease fears that the Praetonian Quarantine may be a "Hamptonian" issue, naval officers from the participating regional nations have been transferred to other nation's warships. A Hamptonian Task Force would answer to a Charonnayan Captain, a Phoenixian Squadron would have a Hamptonian at its head.


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

At the weekly press briefing held by the Prime Minister, questions from reports touched the topics of education, security in Europe, the draft-- the topics usually near and dear to the hearts of Hamptonians. The briefing was progressing smoothly until a reporter asked an unusual question.

"Dr. Olendorf, what is your position on the recent measure in Praetonia to censure Hamptonshire?"

Prime Minister Olendorf paused and thought out the answer in his mind. He was tempted to unleash a virulent condemnation on the Praetonians, quite a few members of the Nationalist Union were not entire heartbroken to hear of the outbreak. Olendorf's reasonable and moderate side won out, and he began to answer the question:

"Carl, it's understandable. They...the Praetonians, are under quite of bit of pressure right now. Unfortunately they lashed out at us unreasonably. The Praetonian Government agreed to the Regional Code and to all the Regional Laws. They know what the Regional Goverment can and cannot do. As Secretary of Justice, Hamptonshire is bound by Regional Law to administrate and direct the RSCF.

I would also like to point out to our Praetonian friends that most of the personnel and equipment being used to maintain the Praetonian Quaratine are non-Hamptonian in origin. I must also state that the RSCF inspections of naval vessels have been designed so that no delay in transportation of aide is caused."

Prime Minister Olendorf paused, he was tempted to end his statement there but he felt the need to further explain himself and the Government.

"The outbreak in Praetonia represents a serious threat to the security of all nations of The New Commonwealth. It was, no, is our responsibility as Director of the RSCF to protect the lives of all citizens of the NC.

We, the Government and People of Hamptonshire, are providing our Praetonian friends with over one hundred million doses of small pox vaccine, we are providing enough food and water to nurish tens of millions of people for weeks, we are sending doctors and nurses into Praetonia with the possibility that they man never return. If the Praetonian Government can look at what we are doing to assist them and what we are doing to secure the region and still censure us...well, then they can have their scapegoat but they'll also have one less ally."

The Press Corps jumped to the feet and began to bombard the Prime Minister with questions. Dozens of men and women each tried to be heard over each other, Olendorf raised his arms to quite the room. He openned his mouth as if to speak but instead bowed his head, turned his back to the podium, and left the room.

OOC: can we join in this RP or is it tooo advanced now?

OOC: Praetonia are you still in the Ottoman Alliance?

IC:

"Celtayoshi deeply regrets this more cowardly attack on Praetonia and has directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to construct and aid package of finiancial relief to assist you during this cause. Furthermore medicals suppplies will be sent to Praetonia. We have no objections to the vessels being checked upon entering Praetonian waters. We shall be open to assist Praetonia if they so ask for our help. Our prayers are with you."

Ooc: Well?????????

Official Statement, Imperial Government

The Democratic Imperium has never issued any official government statement over the quarantine of Praetonia. The Imperial Government therefore resents the words of your Prime Minister and his attempt to sully our name by insinuating that defeated legislation proposed by Nationalists is the position of the Praetonian Government.

We also resent, but do not condemn, the quarantine itself. We see no need for such a thing to exist, as the Imperial Government has already stated her determination to contain the disease inside Praetonia using measures almost exactly the same to those which have been imposed upon us.

Furthermore, we see no reason that should have to board and delay ingoing traffic. The Imperial Government can see the only affect of this as being to delay the arrival of vital medical help, and although we most certainly do not wish accuse the New Commonwealth of deliberately imposing such a restriction, we are as yet unable to find any other possible reason for this occuring.

OOC: Celtayoshi: Yes
Serafima: This is open to all.

Official Statement from the Office of the Prime Minister

In my statements I never mentioned that the Government of Praetonia has condemned us. The fact is that a measure proposed by Praetonian Nationalists undoubtedly reflects the attitude of a sizeable proportion of the Praetonian public. Hamptonshire has been the victim of past attacks by certain members of the Praetonian parliament. We won't stand idly by as we freely give tens of billions of dollars in aide and as we maintain a mechanism to defend the region while we are attacked by forces within the Praetonia. My statement was made in response to and was directed to those people that directed that bill at us.

The Praetonian Quaratine Zone is for the safety of the region and ultimately of Praetonian itself. There are tens of billions of people that are relying on the RSCF to keep them safe from this outbreak.

"Celtayoshi is furthermore lobbying the Ottoman Alliance asssit our ally using its economic funds. The treasurer have been notified, we will do all in our power to assist Praetonia at this time."

Official Statement, Imperial Government

"If the Praetonian Government can look at what we are doing to assist them and what we are doing to secure the region and still censure us...well, then they can have their scapegoat but they'll also have one less ally."

The insinuation was quite plain. The Imperial Government expresses her distress that Hamptonshire believes they are being attacked by forces within Praetonia. The Imperial Government does not remember a single time when Praetonian troops fired upon thos of Hamptonshire, despite the justification that you did at one time give us.

We are also distressed by this quote, "We won't stand idly by as we freely give tens of billions of dollars in aide", as the Praetonian Government has shown nothing but generosity to Hamptonshire (ie over the situation in Europe) even though Hamptonshire has never given us much reason to do so. We do not see why Hamptonshire shouldn't give out 'free aid' to their 'allies' in Praetonia.

We are bemused that the Hamptonian Government, whilst claiming to support democracy, openly attacks a government, nay, an entire people, because of a failed bill tabled by an opposition party. If this is the kind of uncompromising, unhelpful, unkind and unprovoked treatment that the Hamptonian Government is going to repeatedly offer to the State and People of Praetonia, then we will be forced to think very hard about whether we really want to accept aid from, or indeed be an ally of, The Grand Dutchy of Hamptonshire.

Official Statement from the Chardonayan Ministry of Propaganda and Education

While deeply regretting the nessesity of the cordon, Chardonay is merely complying with the regional code and the legitimate requests of the Regional Ministry of Justice. We feel that it is safer to have an international force guarding the sealanes of Praetonia rather than a homogenious Hamptonian one.

Further... we recognise the need for the cordon. Given the level of disorder in Praetonia, this would be the perfect time for a followup attack, especially one that masquirades as 'aide'. How much damage could a shipment of bad vaccine with a 75% mortality rate do to the confidence of the Praetonians in their allies? Incoming vessels must be thouroughly searched and have their credentials confirmed with their flag nation before being allowed to proceed. Further, the chance of contaminated material leaving Praetonia is extremely high, and it is nessisary to make sure that all nations are co-operating with quarintine measures.

http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=365289

Official Statement, Imperial Praetonian Nationalist Party

The risk of a follow-up stike is an internal Praetonian matter, and nothing that the New Commonwealth has or indeed should have anything to do with. The risk of the infection spreading has already been dealt with by Praetonian Naval Assets. With every 'justification' that we receive, more members of the Imperial Parliament appear to be siding with the nationalists. This blockade is unneccessary, unwanted and damaging. We are beginning to count the number of people dead due to aid arriving late, and we will lay the blame at the New Commonwealth's door.

http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=365289

Incase Praetonia missed it.

Senior Vice President for Internal Affairs Nicole Lewis was listening to the discussion back and forth between the two governments. Without calling anyone in Parliament or President Sarzo, she maneuvered to issue a statement.

The Sarzonian government is disgusted at the childish bickering between the governments of Hamptonshire and Praetonia. We ask you both in undiplomatic terms to grow the hell up.

We also insist that the Hamptonian government cease this quarantine or what I'd call blockade of Praetonia. We believe their government is more than capable of handling the protection of their own territory. Your interference in the direct administration of aid to people who need it most is not only unwelcome, but is downright stupid.

Before she could click send, she got a call from Sarzo, who was working on a speech about inclusion in Sarzonian society.

"How's things going, Nicole?"

"Check this out, Mike." She played the exchange between the Praetonian and Hamptonian governments back for Sarzo and then her own statement.

"Right now, the last thing we need to do is to inflame matters with Hamptonshire," Sarzo said. I'll issue the statement myself."

Sarzo typed his message and clicked send:

Sarzonia is highly disappointed with the recent conduct of our two allies Praetonia and Hamptonshire and we ask that both work quickly to resolve the issues behind this quarrel.

We also note Hamptonshire's quarantine with displeasure and note that it violates the spirit of international law, if not the letter thereof. We insist that they do not interfere with Sarzonian shipments. This is not a request.

The Praetonian military is more than capable of preventing further calamity from affecting its people. The Hamptonian military should be dealing with its own matters and not with a de facto blockade.

Official Statement from the Chardonayan Ministry of Propaganda and Education

The situation would be far simpler if it were simply an internal Praetonian matter. Unfortunately, a followup attack could seriously affect the rest of the region as well. However, should the Praetonian Navy wish to take our place in the quarantine, we are willing to allow their units to replace ours.

Before you put too much blame on us, recall that we are forgoing innoculating our own civilians against smallpox in order to ship vaccine into Praetonia, greatly reducing domestic security in order to aide our staunch ally.

Official Statement from the Office of the Foreign Minister

Praetonia, as well as Hamptonshire, lays within the regional boundries of The New Commonwealth. The Transregional waters which surround Praetonia are subject to the rules and regulations as put forth by the Regional Code and the Regional Assembly. The Hamptonian Military is not dealing with this crisis, the Regional Security and Compliance Force (an organization answerable ultimately to both the Regional Assembly and Regional Council) is handling the Quarantine. It should also be noted that Sarzonia ships in approaching the area of the Quarantine Zone patrolled by Chardonayan donations to the RSCF.

Praetonia, as a member of the region, is also free to donate any assets it sees fit to the RSCF. As for the question of Praetonian deaths, I defy anyone to find a single person that has been harmed by the Quarantine as established by the Regional Government. Aide for many nations arrived in Praetonia before the Quaratine was established and at this very moment hundreds of tons of additional aide are being shipped to the sticken areas.

This is not a Hamptonian Quaratine, less than 30% of the ships, materiale and personnel currently involved in the Quarantine are Hamptonian in nature. Our own vessels and aircraft are being searched by RSCF "Enforcement Officers".

As to our friends in Praetonia, you have saide "We do not see why Hamptonshire shouldn't give out 'free aid' to their 'allies' in Praetonia." In an earlier statement released by the Praetonian Government it was stated that Praetonia would not hold it aganist any nation if they did not aide the Praetonian People.

At the conclusion of this crisis, the Government of the Grand Duchy of Hamptonshire will be recalling all diplomatic personnel assigned to Praetonia for a lengthy, and indefinite, "retraining" session.


Senator Mel Ziller
Foreign Minister
Grand Duchy of Hamptonshire

Orca Class DDE Superfluous

"Sarzonian Relief Fleet, this is the Royal Chardonayan Vessel Superfluous. Welcome to sunny Praetonia, you haven't arrived a moment too soon. It's getting pretty bad in there. Now, please heave-to and prepare to be boarded... this should only take a moment. May we also have the registry numbers of all your vessels and a crew list; we need to conferm your identity with your government."

OOC: No one asks the RSCF for permission to go to Praetonia, the RSCF is just there to ensure the safety of the rest of the region. Praetonia decides what Praetonia accepts.

OOC: Alright, then here:

Onboard the Ar-3 Command Airship

Colonel Hartz of the Tenarius National Guard nodded as they approached Praetonian airspace. The radio operator keyed in the commands to contact the Praetonian air control surrounding and in Praetonia. Hartz was perfectly aware that the Justice Department official was watching his every move, but he didn't care. He honestly didn't care about all of this political nonsense. His men were here to help the Praetonian people, and that is all they care about.

"Praetonia Command, this is the Tenarius 7th National Guard DR Regiment requesting permission to land on the coast and begin distributing supplies and medical attention to infected zones of Praetonia."

Orca Class DDE Superfluous

"Sarzonian Relief Fleet, this is the Royal Chardonayan Vessel Superfluous. Welcome to sunny Praetonia, you haven't arrived a moment too soon. It's getting pretty bad in there. Now, please heave-to and prepare to be boarded... this should only take a moment. May we also have the registry numbers of all your vessels and a crew list; we need to conferm your identity with your government."

Napier blinked for a moment. Chardonay?

"Those damn Hamptonians are lucky," Napier said out loud. She didn't know what would have happened had it been Hamptonian ships they had encountered. Relations between Sarzonia and Hamptonshire would definitely have gone south because she knew in her gut she would not have been pleased to deal with a people she disliked.

She turned on the communications panel herself. She didn't want to waste any more breath giving the order.

"Superfluous, this is Commodore Brynne Napier of the Incorporated Sarzonian Navy. Our naval ships will remain outside the zone. You have our permission to board the civilian and merchant vessels in our convoy. We will also send over the registry numbers and crew lists via encrypted electronic transmission system.

"It is a violation of Sarzonian naval policy to allow a foreign power to board ships of war. However, we have secured a limited exemption from our government for you to inspect the relief aircraft.

"Oh, and please hurry. We need to save as many lives as we possibly can."

Napier shut off the communications panel and grimaced. The last thing she needed was an inspection taking forever and possibly costing the lives of Praetonians. She suspected but had no way of knowing that public opinion polls in Sarzonia were ovewhelmingly against the quarantine by foreign powers.

She pondered the Superfluous as the Sarzonian convoy approached it. Let's hope they don't give us any trouble.

RCV Superfluous

"That's fine, Commodore Napier. Only vessels docking need be inspected. Prepare to recieve boarding parties. Superfluous out."

Lieutenant Commander Alex Kerenski switched off her radio and flipped on the intercom, thanking her lucky stars that the ship wasn't large enough to rate a ministry official who would see fit to examine her every move. "Boatcrews to your stations... we want to get this done quickly people." She turned to her exec. "Pass the crew and ship lists over to the flagship. They'll relay the message to the nearest Sarzonian embassy and see if it all checks out."

The Superfluous deployed both hard sided whalers and all three inflatable zodiacs brought along for the mission. Each boat carried a number of ratings and a single PO or commissioned officer.

Radio transmission to Sarzonian embassy in Praetonia:

[quote]RCV Merlot to Sarzonian Embassy Staff. Please confirm that the attached lists of vessels and crew in your relief fleet are valid."

The RINN relief convoy, which had grown to four Marsden-class transports, eight general transports, and six frigates, was 300 nm out when it received notice of the RCSF's quarantine.

"Well, I guess we've little option but to comply," mumbled Commodore Blackridge from his cabin in the HINMS Forthright. Slowly making his way to the CIC, he informed Captain Sandhu and the other commanders of the situation. "We've experienced similar situations before, and quite honestly, we're too far from home to expect any help should anyone do anything stupid." None of the captains, whether merchant or naval, required further elaboration. As the convoy approached the outer limits of the quarantine zone, helicopters were struck down in the hangars and all radars save those for navigation and general search actions were placed on standby.

"And I thought waiting at a Gudrovian border post was bad..."

(OOC Isselmere, what direction are you aproaching Praetonia from? I'm in command of the northern patrols)

RCV Merlot to Sarzonian Embassy Staff. Please confirm that the attached lists of vessels and crew in your relief fleet are valid."

Ambassodor John Cullen received the transmission and looked at the announcement from the External Affairs office. It included the lists. He scanned them quickly and noticed no discrepancies.

"Sarzonian Embassy to RCV Merlot. All lists check out. We are able to verify all ships and crews."

(OOC Isselmere, what direction are you aproaching Praetonia from? I'm in command of the northern patrols)

[OOC: I guess I'm meeting up with you, then. I'll cause no trouble]

PIW announcement (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=7250344&postcount=413)

Vastivan 183rd MASH NBC Battalion, G Company, Safe Room in Area C Tent City

Dr. Jaavik sucked down coffee like there was no tomorrow. It was one of the few perks to being in a hot zone - the rations were first rate.

"Marco, a word?"

Dr Marco Jaavik nodded and indolently waved at the coffee pot. "Its fresh and Jamaican."
"Maybe later." Hans Tulsen's bulk was barely contained by the puffy bubble chair. "Issac said you were here."
"Issac knows too much sometimes."
An easy grin played over Hans' features. "Perhaps he admits to too little other times?"
"Perhaps." Dr Jaavik finished the cup, tapped another one. "You have concerns here?"
"Do you listen to the radio? The shortwave?"
"Only when I must."
"Then, perhaps this does not concern you, what is going on."
Marco shook his head. "No more then British Morocco, no more then Vaniya. My concentration is for the people, not the politics."
"Perhaps I will take that coffee. Sweet, dark, thank you."
"As you will. The milk is good today. Tahib put out some evaporated with the first pot. It did not last long."
Hans kept his peace until the first long swallow passed between them. "That is good. I should say something nice to Tahib when I see him."
"Perhaps that would be appreciated. That, or your struedel could adorn the table..."
Hans laughed. "Perhaps that could be arranged. Though it would depend on receiving the right shipments."
"Of course." Marco finished his second cup. "My friend, you worry too much. We are in an allied country. Between the two of us, we have seen hundreds of thousands suffering. Because of our actions, many of these will survive. Because of the actions of another, many will not suffer at all. And with symptomatic relief, antibodies will be formed, better vaccines will occur."

He rose from his bubble chair, got down a rather well-loved chess set from a nearby cabinet. "If you worry about the world, you do not pay attention to what is in front of you. And if that is the case, this will be a short game. And yet, there is much coffee to be bedrunken, no?"

Hans laughed and began to arrange the pieces.

"This is the RCS Calypso to RINN relief convoy. Thank you for waiting, we suffered a minor engineering casulty. We are launching helecopters and boats to conduct the inspection. Please forward a list of all the the ships, the crew manifests, and the cargo manifests. We'll be as fast as we can. Calypso out.

OOC: I assure you my intentions are not malicious but I don’t see the need to speak out openly and paint a giant bulls eye on myself.

Consider this in the spirit of TAPRES eh?

(I will edit if I’ve presumed too much)
IC:

The Ankh rose silently from the depths. With aid from a satellite passing over head they’d been able to time their ascension with one of the larger supply freighters coming into the checkpoint. Now with the freighter cleared for passage the sub was taking advantage of the choppy water caused by its acceleration.
“That’s it sir we’re five metres from the keel.”
“Hold relative position.” The bridge crew was tense, they were top hating a very large Sarzonian freighter and there presence here wouldn’t look good if they were discovered. With a practiced hand they maneuvered with the freighter, slowly making there way towards port.

Meanwhile in the torpedo room the ordinance for tubes one and two had been removed and two teams were preparing to exit the submarine through them. When the order came from command they were ready. Sliding out into the cool water the men shivered, it was a self conscious twitch more than a response to the temperature as their suits kept their bodies at a comfortable thirty seven degrees. Swimming down the shore away from the port the men and women of the NNAO team made sure, via satellite uplink in their suits, that no one was within visual range when they emerged some ways down the coast. With a gentle lap of water as it was displaced against their polymer outfits they padded up the beach and into the woods.

The submarine in the meantime had settle into the harbor and cut engines. With no audio emanation coming from the submarine they sat, waiting for their hand in the retrieval process.

OOC: I’ll stop there real quick in case there’s a problem, basically these guys are here to covertly conduct an investigation, which I doubt you have time for considering your level of domestic unrest. They’ll pretty much be playing cat and mouse with the security until they’ve completed the mission and then they’ll get their asses out.

Anything I need to know?

OOC: Sure thing, I'll make your life a little more complicated... and you do know that smallpox is making unchecked rampancy on the mainland?

***

IC:

ENCRYPTED SSIX TRANSMISSION TO IDF, HOGSWEAT, ZOOGIE PEOPLE

SS-242 REPORTED TRANSIENT AND INTERMITTANT SONAR CONTACT AT PERIOD OF TRANSIT OF SARZONIAN FREIGHTER CONVOY THROUGH QUARANTINE BLOCKADE.

SONAR OPS SUGGESTS POSSIBLE SUBMARINE CONTACT.

NONE OF OUR SUBMARINES HAVE BREECHED QUARANTINE LINE.

SUGGEST POSSIBLE INFILTRATION JANUS GUERILLA GROUP VIA SUBMARINE SUGGEST IMMEDIATE SONAR SWEEP ACTIVE OF COASTAL AREA AND EXAMINATION FOR POSSIBLE INFILTRATORS.

STRONGLY SUGGEST CONSIDER ALL SUBMARINES IN AREA HOSTILE AND POSSIBLY ARMED WITH FURTHER BIOLOGICAL AND OR CHEMICAL AND OR NUCLEAR WEAPONS.

***

OOC: And you don't get to break the code, Nova Hope. :p

OOC: Sure thing, I'll make your life a little more complicated... and you do know that smallpox is making unchecked rampancy on the mainland?

***

IC:

ENCRYPTED SSIX TRANSMISSION TO IDF, HOGSWEAT, ZOOGIE PEOPLE

SS-242 REPORTED TRANSIENT AND INTERMITTANT SONAR CONTACT AT PERIOD OF TRANSIT OF SARZONIAN FREIGHTER CONVOY THROUGH QUARANTINE BLOCKADE.

SONAR OPS SUGGESTS POSSIBLE SUBMARINE CONTACT.

NONE OF OUR SUBMARINES HAVE BREECHED QUARANTINE LINE.

SUGGEST POSSIBLE INFILTRATION JANUS GUERILLA GROUP VIA SUBMARINE SUGGEST IMMEDIATE SONAR SWEEP ACTIVE OF COASTAL AREA AND EXAMINATION FOR POSSIBLE INFILTRATORS.

STRONGLY SUGGEST CONSIDER ALL SUBMARINES IN AREA HOSTILE AND POSSIBLY ARMED WITH FURTHER BIOLOGICAL AND OR CHEMICAL AND OR NUCLEAR WEAPONS.

***

OOC: And you don't get to break the code, Nova Hope. :p



Hey I've been a good sport every time you've deemed necassary to complicate my life. :P

As for the raging infection, well airtight self contained enviromental suits do me fine. Though there is a risk I'll spread it around via the suits.

and you do realize the point of a top hat manuver is to make it very difficult for your sonar to distinguish between the the frieghter and my own sub? The russians did it through gibralter alot and until the brits installed ALOT of sonar equipment they didn't detect it much. :P

On top of that you've made the assumption that this crossing took place near your,... what detected me :D

(Don't mind me being factious)

OOC: Sorry I'm a bit late - too much reading, and so little time...

IC:

Official Phoenixius' Announcement

With the donation of the entire 8th Fleet to the RCFS, we have put a great deal of resources at the command of Praetonia and the region. As already stated, the 8th Fleet will patrol the areas to the west, and south-west of Praetonia, until such time as the crisis is over. All ships entering and exiting shall be boarded, but inbound ships will recieve the minimum amount of checking to allow the much needed supplies to enter Praetonia as soon as possible.

If the government of Praetonia wishes Phoenixius to send medical and financial aid, then we shall endevour to provide as much as possible in the short time available - we have already begun gathering vaccines and general medical supplies in preparation, plus doctors, both civilian and military are being asked to put themselves out for this hazardous mission.

((sorry completely unrelated but not...just me doing some machinations...))

International News
A group of society women in New York City have orginized a benifit opening at the Metropolitian Museum of Art to help the victims of the Praetonia Incident as it is being refered to in the States. Each ticket will cost $500. Invitations for free entry have been sent to many of nations giving aid to Praetonia in this time of crisis so that their U.N. Delegates will be in attendence.

OOC Nova hope, while there may be no Vasitifan ships around... the sarzonian vessels are about a klick away from one of my ASW vessels that has a very very nice towed array. And since you're ABOVE the thermocline... It's also a bit far for a swim. They need to be in really good shape to swim 40nm. However, if you use a midget submarine launched from the big one... or wait till they get into the harbor, then you'd be (relatively) fine.

Also, Vasitifa, why on earth wouldn't you tell the Sarzonians and me?

IC

The Chardonayan boats quickly approached the Sarzonian merchantmen. Two lines and a rope ladder were thrown down. A head wearing a black beret popped over the gunnel, followed by the rest of her body (a disturbing image, I know, but I;m tired). "Midshipwoman Hunter, permission to come aboard."

Calvin Cooley, the commanding officer of the merchant ship Exchange noticed Hunter's ascent to the deck of his ship. He grunted, taking a pipe of tobacco out of his mouth. He didn't like the idea of anyone boarding his ship, not even Sarzonian navy types. He especially wasn't fond of a foreigner aboard his ship, but he knew orders were orders.

"You're already aboard. Do what you have to do."

He grimaced and put his pipe back into his mouth. He ran his hands through his thinning gray hair and shook his head at his young first mate.

"I'll be real glad when this is all over," he whispered as Hunter started the inspection.

The Ballroom, though a terrorist organization, abhores this kind of blanket targetting of civilians, and hopes it will not be tarred with the same brush.

Hunter grinned perkily as she helped a sailor aboard. "An adversarial attitude is just going to make this take longer! Now, cargo manifest please?"

"This is the RCS Calypso to RINN relief convoy. Thank you for waiting, we suffered a minor engineering casulty. We are launching helecopters and boats to conduct the inspection. Please forward a list of all the the ships, the crew manifests, and the cargo manifests. We'll be as fast as we can. Calypso out.

"Calypso, HINMS Forthright," answered Capt. Sandhu. "I am forwarding ship lists, and crew and cargo manifests. We will await your orders and stand by to offer assistance to your casualty should you need it. Forthright out."

OOC: Sorry I figure I made it clear that I followed right into harbour. The sub is just before and between the screws. Now only that they didn’t sail there they ascended there, straight up. So it was a ballast action and not an engine maneuver.

And no they didn’t blow the ballast it was nice and gentle. This is not the first time my subs have done this. The top hat is my favorite maneuver in a busy port :D

Hmm towed array eh? I assume it has a fair depth to it. But the question is with the freighter’s screws in reverse to halt for your inspection would the computer throw it out as garbage?

I’m not completely adverse to being discovered, despite its unlikelyness. I merely want plausible explanations as to how it’s done. My sub is in noisy water, running with no emissions and floated into position without add of their drives. (FYI to compensate for the fact that I can’t turn off the nuclear turbines the sub has several layers of overlapping vacuum seal and since it is impossible for vibration to communicate a vacuum you can’t hear that. [Though I should note that if this kind of sub gets torpedoed they hurt like a bitch as the entire outer hull decompresses because the vacuum is exposed to the sea.])

Perhaps a better way of going about this is not to tech wank but to ask. What purpose does your discovering me serve to further the RP? Should you give me a good answer I won’t even mind if you don’t (which you might) have the technology around to detect me.)

Hunter grinned perkily as she helped a sailor aboard. "An adversarial attitude is just going to make this take longer! Now, cargo manifest please?" Cooley's face now took on a noticeable scowl. Without speaking, he turned and silently handed the manifest to Hunter.

Damn bitch, Cooley thought. He made a mental note to lodge a complaint to Commodore Napier, though he didn't expect it to do any good.

I’m not completely adverse to being discovered, despite its unlikelyness. I merely want plausible explanations as to how it’s done. My sub is in noisy water, running with no emissions and floated into position without add of their drives. (FYI to compensate for the fact that I can’t turn off the nuclear turbines the sub has several layers of overlapping vacuum seal and since it is impossible for vibration to communicate a vacuum you can’t hear that. [Though I should note that if this kind of sub gets torpedoed they hurt like a bitch as the entire outer hull decompresses because the vacuum is exposed to the sea.])

Perhaps a better way of going about this is not to tech wank but to ask. What purpose does your discovering me serve to further the RP? Should you give me a good answer I won’t even mind if you don’t (which you might) have the technology around to detect me.) [OOC: All the stealth technologies in the RL world INHIBIT detection, they don't render it impossible. While it may be more difficult to detect a submarine that runs the way you described it, it CAN be done.

If you're here to be a menace to Praetonia or her allies, detecting the presence of your sub could mean the difference between the devastation of an entire fleet or a sub that either is royally f*d or beating a hasty retreat. If you're here to help Praetonia's allies, you would probably irk Napier and take this RP into a totally different direction from the one it seems to be headed in.]

OOC: Nova Hope... I understand how tophatting works and I understand how ASW works =) My point was... they aren't in the harbour yet. We haven't cleared them for passage. What would be the point of conducting inspections in the middle of a plague infested harbour where anyone could simply swim out of a tophatting sub?

Really, the towed array makes no difference since it's beneath the thermocline right now and the sub is well above. However... this is a modern ASW DE, and at this range we'd probably either hear the tubes being flooded or the doors opening....a procedure that is insanely dangerous for the frogmen while underweigh.

I have no idea where this is going... nor why you didn't simply contact my government normally instead of trying to sneak people in when there are already thousands of international workers and observers...

Oh, and an engineering casulty means a malfunction, not someone getting hurt =)

IC

Helecopter landing on the Forthright

A tall man in a black beret stepped off the helecopter, followed by half a dozen others. "Good afternoon, I am Lieutenant Schlifowitz. Permission to come aboard?"

Exchange
"Terrific!" she beamed. "Alright, to the cargo hold!" She and her sailors, who were all secretly snickering at the exchange, headed down into the hold. and began inspecting the seals on the cargo signifying it had passed Sarzonian Customs.

OOC:

Okay I may have come off as mildly haughty not my intent. As for the post, I fucked up the timeline. Whoops :D

The way it should work is I float into top hat while freighter slows for inspection,
I engage drives as freight begins thrust,
I top hat to the harbour,
I release the teams,
I settle on the seafloor in shelter and sit silent.

I guess I assumed to much with the instantaneous passage of the freighter. My bad. I’ll shut up until the freighter gets to port :D

As for hurting Praetonia no no no. I do technically have my own treaties sign with them. Besides the information I’m looking for is very specific and if the group has any moles in Praetonia this solves the problem.

I’ll shush now :D

OOC: Helecopter landing on the Forthright

A tall man in a black beret stepped off the helecopter, followed by half a dozen others. "Good afternoon, I am Lieutenant Schlifowitz. Permission to come aboard?"

Petty Officer 2nd Class Malmsey saluted the lieutenant. "Welcome aboard, sir. I'll bring you to the Commodore."

Malmsey led the Chardonayan [sp.?] lieutenant through the Forthright's corridors to the bridge. Commodore Blackridge sat in the captain's chair overseeing his charges. When the other two men entered, Blackridge rose to greet the man from Chardonay.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Malmsey saluted the lieutenant. "Welcome aboard, sir. I'll bring you to the Commodore."

Malmsey led the Chardonayan [sp.?] lieutenant through the Forthright's corridors to the bridge. Commodore Blackridge sat in the captain's chair overseeing his charges. When the other two men entered, Blackridge rose to greet the man from Chardonay.

OOC Chardonayan is correct

And Nova Hope, that's quite alright... I won't detect you. Though Praetonia has defences of it's own to worry about

IC

Schlifowitz saluted, "Sir. Thank you for complying so graciously... if I could have permission to check out your cargo holds, we'll try to get this over with as soon as we can."

OOC: Bump, still waiting for Praetonia to allow my airships access...

OOC Chardonayan is correct

And Nova Hope, that's quite alright... I won't detect you. Though Praetonia has defences of it's own to worry about

IC

Schlifowitz saluted, "Sir. Thank you for complying so graciously... if I could have permission to check out your cargo holds, we'll try to get this over with as soon as we can."

"Permission granted, Lieutenant," Blackridge replied, returning the salute. "I hope you'll agree to have Petty Officer Malmsey to serve as your escort through the flotilla to explain things to the captains."

message hail from the Container Ship "Mary G" 30,000 GTR vessel registered in New Shiron, owned by that government

"This is the Mary G, we request permission to enter Praetonian waters and to dock. We carry medical supplies and a medical team. With us is the RSN "Dauntless", a frigate that will take off many of the crew prior to entering Praetonian waters and that vessel will not be making a port call. Captain Fortier out. "

Hey I've been a good sport every time you've deemed necassary to complicate my life. :P

True, you're a good RPer.


As for the raging infection, well airtight self contained enviromental suits do me fine. Though there is a risk I'll spread it around via the suits.

and you do realize the point of a top hat manuver is to make it very difficult for your sonar to distinguish between the the frieghter and my own sub? The russians did it through gibralter alot and until the brits installed ALOT of sonar equipment they didn't detect it much. :P

True, but the manuever needs the motion of the ship to be fully effective. And a stopped ship isn't moving.

Further, I stated a transient contact, not a firm one. Could have been a whale for all I know - but paranoia is paranoia.



On top of that you've made the assumption that this crossing took place near your,... what detected me :D

(Don't mind me being factious)

Oh, hell, that one is easy. Pierpont SSNs near the "border gate" positions. I've got ten of them out there, five on gate watch, five on "looping patrols".

OOC Nova hope, while there may be no Vasitifan ships around... the sarzonian vessels are about a klick away from one of my ASW vessels that has a very very nice towed array. And since you're ABOVE the thermocline... It's also a bit far for a swim. They need to be in really good shape to swim 40nm. However, if you use a midget submarine launched from the big one... or wait till they get into the harbor, then you'd be (relatively) fine.

Also, Vasitifa, why on earth wouldn't you tell the Sarzonians and me?

OOC: Because of when that sub was placed.... and I forgot everyone.



IC

The Chardonayan boats quickly approached the Sarzonian merchantmen. Two lines and a rope ladder were thrown down. A head wearing a black beret popped over the gunnel, followed by the rest of her body (a disturbing image, I know, but I;m tired). "Midshipwoman Hunter, permission to come aboard."

Isselmere: "Thank you very much sir, and we'll be on our way. Could you detatch aditional liasons for the other ships? Mine isn't the only inspection team."

Sarzonia: "Your ships have been cleared to proceed. Thank you for co-operating. Superfluous out."

Isselmere: "Thank you very much sir, and we'll be on our way. Could you detatch aditional liasons for the other ships? Mine isn't the only inspection team."

Sarzonia: "Your ships have been cleared to proceed. Thank you for co-operating. Superfluous out."

"Certainly, Lieutenant," Blackridge answered. "I'd be glad to facilitate your inspections." The commodore rang Cdr. Sandhu in the CIC and informed him of the Chardonayan request. The Forthright's captain, in turn, relayed the order to the other frigates who prepared sailors for the job.

"The liaisons will be ready when you are, Lieutenant."

Encrypted Military Communique to Praetonia, Chardonay, and allied nations

Vastiva now has the W-8 Submarine fleet completely on site. This comprises 20 Pierpont SSN and 2 Slinger SSGN.

There is also an Ohio SSBN at quite some distance (+300 nm) on unrelated activity.

Vastiva's fleet will not break quarantine, nor advance past quarantine line. Its presence is due entirely to rumors the terrorists may use submersible forces to lay further biological weapons upon Praetonia.

We appreciate allied protection of our airdropped supply lines. We would ask if the following would be possible -

*Deployment of a Vastivan Carrier Group near Praetonia.
*Supplies to be given to the VCG outside of quarantine.
*VCG assets to commit airdrops of these supplies into Praetonia.

This mechanism would allow quicker deployment of Vastivan relief supplies to Praetonia.

We also note an aid request by the 183rd MASH for more aid in treatment, so are airdropping the 383rd MASH NBC Battalion. We will also be bringing in the 255th and 1822nd MASH Battalions for symptomatic support once properly outfitted with NBC gear and refreshment training.

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

OOC: To move this along a little...
IC
"Forthright, your ships have been cleared for transit. You may proceed"

Encrypted responce from the Triangle to Vasitiva

lGeneral Riva Sola al-Din

Pease keep RCSF forces apprised of the locations of your SUBRONs. Unidentified submarines detected by Chardonayan forces will recieve five active pings at one second intervals, then two more at three second intervals. If no attempt has been made by the submarine to surface or to contact the detecting ship within one minute of the warning, Chardonayan vessels will prosicute the target.

The deployment of a CVG is perfectly acceptable, so long as it remains outside the quarantined zone. We also must regretfully insist that either RCSF officers observe the loading of the supplies and MASH unit, or for the relief flights to be routed through a New Commonwealth airbase.

Respectfully
Strategos Anatoly Karpov
Supreme Commander, Royal Chardonayan Armed Forces
The Triangle

OOC: To move this along a little...
IC
"Forthright, your ships have been cleared for transit. You may proceed"

Encrypted responce from the Triangle to Vasitiva

lGeneral Riva Sola al-Din

Pease keep RCSF forces apprised of the locations of your SUBRONs. Unidentified submarines detected by Chardonayan forces will recieve five active pings at one second intervals, then two more at three second intervals. If no attempt has been made by the submarine to surface or to contact the detecting ship within one minute of the warning, Chardonayan vessels will prosicute the target.

The deployment of a CVG is perfectly acceptable, so long as it remains outside the quarantined zone. We also must regretfully insist that either RCSF officers observe the loading of the supplies and MASH unit, or for the relief flights to be routed through a New Commonwealth airbase.

Respectfully
Strategos Anatoly Karpov
Supreme Commander, Royal Chardonayan Armed Forces
The Triangle

"Strange. We've been airdropping supplies for some time, and our MASH has been on the ground since nearly the beginning."
"Well, General, if they really want to observe everything..."


Encrypted to Triangle

Our submarine commanders have been appraised of the situation and methodologies of contact.

The 383rd MASH NBC is already enroute for parachute deployment near the 183rd. The 255th and 1822nd MASH are setting for loading in Nassanuella port in Vastiva proper, and will also be airdropped.

Supplies loaded to the CVN for redistribution will be going through our security, we do ask why additional would be required but have no great difficulty with an observation team aboard our carriers. They would, of course, be restricted to areas concerning supply redistribution. Again, these supplies are being airdropped, and will continue to be so, as Praetoria has made clear their policy as per entering their nation and Vastiva has made clear its intention to aid and assist its ally throughout this crisis.

All airdrops have been and will continue to be performed by our C-71 Progeny aircraft, in large groups. We will forward a complete schedule and payload list to your office by secure courier. None of our shipments will have fighter protection, none of our shipments will be attempted with any other form of aircraft.

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

OOC I didn't mean the MASH unit already on the ground, of course. I meant the subsequent ones. By simply flying them over, you are violating the quarentine.

You've recieved an appropriate IC responce... I have an essay to write.

OOC I didn't mean the MASH unit already on the ground, of course. I meant the subsequent ones. By simply flying them over, you are violating the quarentine.

You've recieved an appropriate IC responce... I have an essay to write.

OOC: *poke* Vastiva has been airdropping. Daily. And I'm not violating the quarantine as we're not landing. Praetonia seems to have no difficulty with this.

OOC: We're also attempting to prevent any followup attacks by inspecting shipments going in. But since you're a staunch ally of praetonia, if it's happening in my sector, I won't interfere.

OOC: We're also attempting to prevent any followup attacks by inspecting shipments going in. But since you're a staunch ally of praetonia, if it's happening in my sector, I won't interfere.

OOC: If they can actually get into a shipment loaded under heavy guard at my military base, and flying on the schedule I sent you, with the exact number and type of planes I sent... I'll be seriously impressed.

And if they try to land, shoot them down. Ain't me.

OOC: more worried about tainted vaccines, frankly. We have no way of knowing that your intentions are actually peaceful. But thanks for allowing us to shoot your planes down. =)

OOC: more worried about tainted vaccines, frankly. We have no way of knowing that your intentions are actually peaceful. But thanks for allowing us to shoot your planes down. =)

OOC: *looks over glasses at you*
See NATO. See Praetonia. See Vastiva.
Any other questions about loyalty?

OOC: Which is the only reason (apart from a sincere wish not to tangle with you) your planes aren’t cart-wheeling into the ocean with their wings ripped off by Chardoanyan ALRAAMs :)

Isselmere: "Thank you very much sir, and we'll be on our way. Could you detatch aditional liasons for the other ships? Mine isn't the only inspection team."

Sarzonia: "Your ships have been cleared to proceed. Thank you for co-operating. Superfluous out."

[OOC: Sorry for the late post, but just assume for RP purposes this happened right afterward.]

"Thank you, ma'am."

With that, the Chardonayan crew left the Exchange and it set up shop to airlift supplies and have crews in protective suits deliver supplies to the Praetonian people.

Meanwhile, Napier paced the bridge of her ship, waiting to hear back from Navy Chief Kathy Bunhall and Vice President for Defense John Newman about the complaint she forwarded from the Exchange. She wondered whether the First Fleet and her longtime friend Admiral Marcus Patinkin would be on the way.

The Sovereign Country of Efonia has seen the request for help. We will agree to send 10,000 doctors and nurses trained extensivly in handling of HazMat material. We will come with only the neccesary medical supplies and will be unarmed. Please reply to weather you still need help. If we are attacked for aiding an ally, we will take extreme measures to bring the attackers to justice.

OOC: SOrry for being so long in the replying.

IC: Statement to the Member Nations of the Quarantine Force

The Imperial Government apologises unreservedely for the statements issued by certain nationalist members of the Imperial Parliament, and for the wording of several statements released by the Government itself. The Imperial Government thanks the New Commonwealth forces for helping to ensure our security in these times of need, and we wish you luck doing so. In addition, we wish to replace as much of the quarantine force as possible / as wanted with Praetonian naval units, which will carry out their duties in accordance with regional law.

Cabinet Meeting, Praeton

"The Ministry fo Health reports a further 28,872 deaths in infected zones so far this week. In addition, 1,324 deaths have been recorded outside of infected zone. Note that most of these have occured very close to the infected zones, and not all were confirmed smallpox.

"The incinerators are working at full capacity, although one facility had to be shut down for some hours earlier this week due to a mechanical fault. We are just about coping, but the death toll is rising, as is the rate of death."


"The Home Office reports 5 people shot dead this week whilst carrying out looting and/or public order offences. In addition several riots had to be qwelled using non-lethal force. However, the business sectors and Administrative centes of most cities are well under rapts, as well as all military installations."


"The Ministry of Defence reports no major problems with troop morale, although some minor turbulence is being experienced. The troops are starting to worry a little for their families. Anyone with family in an affected area has been given indefinate leave."

OOC:Good to have you back :)

Vestern States is planning to increase the convoy traffic to your nation, since many of your sailors are probobly infected, we are putting some of our merchant vesels at your disposal.

We are also preparing our hospitals to recive infected patients, to relive yours. If thats possible of course.

Our scientists is getting closer to a cure for the smallpox

Vastiva has a vaccine, which is undergoing final testing, designed for this particular strain. The vaccine we received was partially protective (80%), which was deemed insufficient. Typhoid Mary you don't need.

At this time, rhesus and volunteer (serum and cloned material) tests show this vaccine to give full immunity by the third series.

If this proves effective, our onsite facility will begin processing vaccine, and we will make the formulation available to all whom Praetoria directs it given.

At this time, we are reporting 2 staff deaths, 9 currently undergoing treatment, and 15 possible infections. We would also note one of the two deaths was owing to a fatal pistol wound to the abdomen from a patient, and as such was not related to smallpox.

Given the total population of our MASH units is just over 7600, we consider this a good outcome overall.

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

Phoenixius forces will be halved, if and when Praetonia naval forces arrive. The other half shall remain as isntructed by the RSCF.

(from VNN Channel 722 evening broadcast)

… artichokes.

In an official release by the Ministry of Peace, it was confirmed today a Vastivan submarine - the VSS Saagroth - launched a cruise missile at a shipping convoy in international waters near Praetoria. The strike was nuclear in disposition and it is not believed any remnants of the convoy remain.

According to the official VAS response, the convoy was transporting chemical and biological weapons destined for use by the Jaxus Five terrorist group. Due to the nature of the cargo, and the disposition of Vastivan forces in the area, it was decided to use nuclear weapons rather then to allow any part of these weapons to fall into the hands of the terrorists.

In other news, furbie skin rugs have become…

(from VNN Channel 722 evening broadcast)

… artichokes.

In an official release by the Ministry of Peace, it was confirmed today a Vastivan submarine - the VSS Saagroth - launched a cruise missile at a shipping convoy in international waters near Praetoria. The strike was nuclear in disposition and it is not believed any remnants of the convoy remain.

According to the official VAS response, the convoy was transporting chemical and biological weapons destined for use by the Jaxus Five terrorist group. Due to the nature of the cargo, and the disposition of Vastivan forces in the area, it was decided to use nuclear weapons rather then to allow any part of these weapons to fall into the hands of the terrorists.

In other news, furbie skin rugs have become…

OoC : Um.. No... You just told me that my Jaxus NINE (not FIVE) terrorist organization did something I have no idea about. Thats called bad RP. So I shall hereby ignore that post and will ignore any RP related to it. And its Praetonia, not Praetoria... Wow...

OoC : Um.. No... You just told me that my Jaxus NINE (not FIVE) terrorist organization did something I have no idea about. Thats called bad RP. So I shall hereby ignore that post and will ignore any RP related to it. And its Praetonia, not Praetoria... Wow...


OOC: Knowing Vastiva as I do I think that was the joke. Made up group made up country. and a creative bump.

P.S. Were you going to respond to me in the HDI attack or no?

OoC : Um.. No... You just told me that my Jaxus NINE (not FIVE) terrorist organization did something I have no idea about. Thats called bad RP. So I shall hereby ignore that post and will ignore any RP related to it. And its Praetonia, not Praetoria... Wow...

OOC: Uhm, Jax? Wasn't you. My country has it's own terrorist problem, which existed LONG before you showed up as a terrorist (see thread http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=340472&highlight=Ozan )

After realizing another group has chosen a name close to yours in order to shift blame accordingly, do rescind your commentary.

The country spelling screw up I blame on a drunk anchorman. (and it being 3 am when I posted).

It was a bump, connected to events in my country. And the sub has been waiting for this convoy for some time (if you'll note, I did indicate much earlier the Ohio class boomer (SSBN) was in these waters, on a mission unrelated to Praetonia, quite a few posts ago).

So relax. If you wouldn't mind - TG me first, then go ballistic about one of my posts. Thank you. (pun intended) I'm not going to move your people, promise.

OOC: So can I proceed like you guys made the check point because this is what I wanted to avoid in the first place,…

Vastiva has a vaccine, which is undergoing final testing, designed for this particular strain. The vaccine we received was partially protective (80%), which was deemed insufficient. Typhoid Mary you don't need.

At this time, rhesus and volunteer (serum and cloned material) tests show this vaccine to give full immunity by the third series.

If this proves effective, our onsite facility will begin processing vaccine, and we will make the formulation available to all whom Praetoria directs it given.

At this time, we are reporting 2 staff deaths, 9 currently undergoing treatment, and 15 possible infections. We would also note one of the two deaths was owing to a fatal pistol wound to the abdomen from a patient, and as such was not related to smallpox.

Given the total population of our MASH units is just over 7600, we consider this a good outcome overall.

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

Ab-shalom and greetings;

Vastiva has a vaccine. We are beginning to disperse it to the public, and will share the formulation with any country involved.

We are very grateful to Vestern States medical staff for aid in the design and testing of this vaccine.

We do note - this is NOT A CURE. It will not make the affected safe, it will only serve to safeguard the unaffected population.

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

OOC: Uhm, Jax? Wasn't you. My country has it's own terrorist problem, which existed LONG before you showed up as a terrorist (see thread http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=340472&highlight=Ozan )

After realizing another group has chosen a name close to yours in order to shift blame accordingly, do rescind your commentary.

The country spelling screw up I blame on a drunk anchorman. (and it being 3 am when I posted).

It was a bump, connected to events in my country. And the sub has been waiting for this convoy for some time (if you'll note, I did indicate much earlier the Ohio class boomer (SSBN) was in these waters, on a mission unrelated to Praetonia, quite a few posts ago).

So relax. If you wouldn't mind - TG me first, then go ballistic about one of my posts. Thank you. (pun intended) I'm not going to move your people, promise.

Well I dont want my organization's name being used without my permission. That can cause problems.

Well I dont want my organization's name being used without my permission. That can cause problems.

OOC: As you pointed out, you're Jaxus NINE and I stated it was Jaxus FIVE. Not the same group, they just want to appear more connected and bigger then they are.

*IMPORTANT MEMO*

This is President Dave Hunter for TDRODCS speaking. I will be brief and to the point...

Our main taskforce, "team D1", has been outside of contact for a month. We don't know what has, or is happening to them. We need urgent help in locating them urgently.

Thank you
President Dave Hunter

Prime Minister Frank Rock sighed as he closed the folder in front of him. I'm not ready for this, WE'RE not ready for this, he thought. He glanced at Matthias, sitting in the high-backed leather chair in the corner. Twist, why did I let you talk me into this job. He shook his head and looked at the rest of his gathered ministers. To call their faces glum would be missing a great opportunity to use the word miserable.

"All right, let me get this straight. This country we've never heard of... Prae?"

"Prae... Praetoria. No! Praetonia... Sir."

Was I ever that young, thought Frank as he glanced at Violet Harris, his Foreign Minister. Who would of thought we'd need you this soon? Well you're in it now, we all are.

"Thank you, Violet. Praetonia was hit with a terrorist attack. By the... Jaxus Nine, right? Right. So, other than sending our condolences, we're doing that, right Vi?" Blushing furiously, the young woman nodded her head. "I don't see why this affects us. I mean, we're barely beyond getting our own house in order, dealing with the issues here at ho- What Matthew?"

Matthew Georges, Silverrocks' Minister of Urban Planning, looked with envy at Violet. I wish I was young enough to cover up my discomfort with youth, he thought. Clearing his throat, he looked up from his notes, "Sir, it has to do with Schultaria and Designwerks. It appears that they are friends, if not outright allies, and Schultaria has pledged to aid them in their time of trouble."

"Designwerks? The same company-"

"The same company that we asked to help us design and build our Capitol and industrial sector."

The Prime Minister felt light-headed. "But... we held the referendum, we've started clearing the land, we bloody well ANNOUNCED it across the whole damn COUNTRY!" The sound of his fists slamming down on the heavy oak desk echoed in the Chamber of State. "Damn", he whispered. "What did this Praetonia... what was it, a bomb?"

"Smallpox," said Violet in a voice that seemed much smaller as the room seemed to grow much larger.

"Good Lord. They'll die in droves."

"What do you mean? Kim? Kimberly, answer me!"

Kimberley Cilissa seemed to be staring into space, as if she could see far across the world. As Minister of Science she was probably the only one who grasped the immensity of it.

"KIM!"

Without looking, in a voice like a machine, she started speaking. "If it was contained... no, they're terrorists, they'd go for maximum spread. The odds of having a vaccine on hand would be small, if it was still good... and a vaccine isn't a cure. Panic, people fleeing in droves, and they wouldn't know for hours, maybe days that it WAS smallpox. Even if Martial Law was slapped down immediately, some would run and start new vectors..."

In the silence, the Prime Ministers' voice sounded in a hoarse croak. "Worst case?"

Tears welled in Kimberlys' eyes. "Worst case, millions. Maybe more."

Frank Rock leapt to his feet. "We have to help. Vi get a hold of Schultaria. Tell them-"

"We can't."

The Prime Minister spun on his Minister of Finance. "What did you say, Glinsky?"

Vlad Glinsky ignored the menace in the Prime Ministers voice. "I said we can't." He leaned forward in his chair and started ticking points off on his fingers. "One, we're too small. Two, we don't have anything they need. Three, even if we did we'd never get it too them in time. Four, we can't afford it. And five, we're in trouble of our own... sir," he added with a hint of contempt. He'd been the runner up in the first national election and was only in the cabinet to show unity to the country. Well, that and the bastard is a genius with money, thought Frank.

"There are people dying, Glinsky!"

"And I feel for them, but you said it yourself! That's why you called this meeting! If the people don't see the constuction we promised them within six months, the over inflated stock market WILL crash! There WILL be a run on the national bank! All those bonds you sold won't be worth the paper they're printed on! That's okay though, they'll need something to burn when they start RIOTING!"

"ENOUGH! You made your point." Frank Rock collapsed in his chair. Millions dead. Riots. My People. Remember them. Bitterly, he swallowed the shame. He's right, we're too small. But we'll at least send aid. We'll find the money somewhere. "Options."

"I warned you about this. I told you to wait for the economy to level off before-"

"I said options, Vlad, not criticism."

Vlad Glinsky turned as red as Violet had, not out of embaressment, but rage. "Well... sir... my advice, if it's not ignored this time, is to explore other options. I've prepared a list of other companies: Portland Ironworks, Hybald Defense Industries, IDF Shipyards-"

"We looked at all of those, they build military equipment, not public works! That's why we went with Designwerks in the first place!"

"You promised people jobs! If we have to offend your peaceful sensibilities to prevent the collapse of our economy...!"

"Stop it!", shouted Violet. "It doesn't matter!" Everyone spun towards the Foreign Minister.

"What are you talking about?", sneered Vlad.

"Those companies you mentioned, you idiot! And all the other ones we looked at. They're all pledging support to Praetonia. IDF, Granzi, Sarzonia, they're all friends or allies of Praetonia too! Face it, they're the big kids and one of them's been hit... hard!", her voice started quavering, "They may WANT to help us, but they're just not going to have time right now!" Taking a deep breath, she continued, "I may not know finance, but I know people. If Schultaria is caught up in this, and they actually know us, how likely is it for a nation that's never heard of us to take a building contract from us now?"

There was a small cough from the corner. The tall, thin man was the oldest person in the room. One would call him frail until you saw the steel in his eyes that matched the color of his hair. He was Matthias 'Twist' Rock, Minister of Information, uncle to the Prime Minister, and quite probably the most intelligent man in the country. He looked around, gathering everyone by eye. "Ladies, gentlemen, Mr. Prime Minister, we cannot worry about what we cannot control. We should do what most governments do... nothing."

"That's prepost-"

"No more so than paranoid thoughts of rioting in the streets, Mr. Glinsky. Our countrymen are not so weak. You do them a disservice to think so. How long until the preparations are complete for the proposed building site, Mr. Georges?"

"Well, we planned to be ready for Designwerks in six months..."

"It's constuction," snorted Matthias, "It's the same estimate I got on my summer cottage. That took a year-and-a-half." He added with a rueful smile.

Tension slowly eased out of the room as he continued, "I recommend we proceed as planned. If we don't hear from Designwerks in six months, we re-evaluate. Until then, as Minister of Information, I recommend the Prime Minister make the delay a governmental secret. We publish everything else... but the fact that we may have a future economic problem because of a delay in our plans should stay in this room."

Ah, Twist, what would I do without you, thought the Prime Minister. "As always, you are the voice of reason. I really wish you'd taken this job. In fact, I'll trade you right now. No? I thought not." He sighed. "The Minister of Information is right, we continue as we've started. As well, find time to sift through your budgets... in a week I want to send $10 million in aid to this Praetonia. It may not be much, but it's at least something."

"Sir, we can't afford to."

"As well sir, one of these reports states that any country who helps Praetonia may be targeted by this group, Jaxus Nine."

"Vlad, we can't afford not to. Violet, we continue as we started and we start as we mean to continue. I won't start our foray in international politics by condoning terrorists, not even by omission. That's all people. Dismissed."

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

To: Schultaria Prime

From: Violet Harris, Minister of Foreign Affairs, The Dominion of Silverrock

Please forward this to the Nation of Praetonia along with the $10 million dollars in aid we are sending you.
_________________________________________________________________

To: Praetonia

From: Violet Harris, Minister of Foreign Affairs, The Dominion of Silverrock

Our deepest condolences on this most horrible of tragedies. Although small, we send you our thoughts and prayers, which are as big as any nations. Please accept our small donation to help your people through these terrible times. Understand that you have gained our friendship in this, your time of need. We join the other nations in condemning this unconscionable act of terrorism and denounce this and all other acts of violence against innocent civilians. If we can help in any way, you need only contact us.

With our sympathies,

PM Rock
The Dominion of Silverrock
_________________________________________________________________

OOC: My first post in II. Constructive criticism welcome.

OOC: *standing ovation!* Well done!

OOC: *standing ovation!* Well done!
[OOC: What he said. :)

Is this the first time you've played NationStates?!]

OOC: Nice bit of writing! Now to finish things on my end...

IC

Director Damien sat in his cluttered office while he attended to a meeting of advisors on a video conference link. Even though he had spent fifteen years as the leader of Schultaria Prime, his experience was not enough to keep up with the sprawling mass of daily briefings and legal proposals that the government demanded of his position. If the amount of work wasn't already hectic enough during the year, Central Director Schultz had made him de facto leader of Schultaria Prime. As members of the finance committee droned on about the status of the Education budget, he began to contemplate his predicament:

"Elliot gets to spend a week arguing with foreign officials in Hamptonshire while I'm stuck doing the petty details of his damned job. Now I remember why I wasn't unhappy when he took my position..."

"Director! DIRECTOR! Are you well," asked one of many anonymous faces from the video conference, "Perhaps it might be best to press on to the next order of business and come back to the University building project fund."

Startled, Harlen perked up in his seat. "Of course. Sorry if I'm more distracted than usual; I haven't been in this position for over two decades so I might seem more 'rusty' than usual. What's our next order of business?"

"The next order of business is foreign aid; specifically the current funding situations for the Nations of Praetonia and Granzi."

Settling back into his chair, Damien made notes while the group of talking heads began to discuss interest projections and cost benefit analyses of Designwerks' activities in Praetonia. Exhausted and flustered, the aging Director bemoaned the screens. "Stop using this God-damned economics Doctorate jargon, and give me a blow by blow account of what we are doing to help Praetonia in plain English. If I can't understand what you're saying, then how am I supposed to justify my positions to Elliot and the National Assembly!"

"Well sir," one of the people said sheepishly, "we do have something from the Nation of Silverrock concerning a Praetonia Aid Package. They insist we deliver it to Praetonia personally."

Folding his arms Damien haughtily proclaimed, "Now that wasn't so hard now was it? If you would be so kind as to show me the details of the correspondence I will approve it and send it on the proper channels." The screen flashed to a bright blue before showing the details of the note in white teletext letters. Nodding in acceptance, Harlen stood from his desk and began to pace from his desk to the row of monitors nestled in the wall. "It's wonderful to see a nation who expresses so much concern about a nation that has suffered so much at the hands of such a callus enemy; now, from what I know of their economy they're experiencing a bit of a financial crisis now yes?"

The advisors all nodded in unison agreement.

"Then I believe that we should help to bolster their aid package a bit, Silverrock shouldn't have to be worried about their commitment. I know that we can scrounge up an additional ninety million to make it an even hundred. By the way, if we were to compare their aid package to our current GNP, how much would we have to send in Praetonia to match their aid contribution?"

"To match would cost us roughly 32 billion dollars Mr. Director. Would you like me to tap the international alliance budget for the funds sir?"

"Not right now, I think it would lessen the diplomatic impact of our friend’s contribution. I would like the 'padded' Silverrock aid package of 100 million sent as soon as physically possible. Make sure our friends know that their package has been received and wholeheartedly welcomed by the Nation of Praetonia. If there's nothing else to talk about, consider this advisory session adjourned..."

TO: Prime Minister Rock
The Dominion of Silverrock

Ab-shalom and greetings;

First, and most importantly, we thank you for your donation to our ally, the nation of Praetonia.

We give you fair warning, the terrorist group Jaxus Nine has been known to follow up on its threats of action on those who aid those it opposes. As such, Vastiva pledges our support and aid should such an action occur against your fair land.

It is the desire of the Sultanate of Vastiva to open and maintain strong diplomatic and economic relations with all nations desirous of such. We therefore offer an exchange of embassies and ambassadors, and a beginning of free trade between our nations.

Go in Peace,

Namaste,
Raahmid Javani
Grand Vizier,
Humble Servant of His Magnificence, the Sultan of Vastiva

OOC: Vastiva - *bows* tg me any advice.
Sarzonia - My first nation, first time here, played rpg's before, but
not a whole nation. I'm enjoying the challenge.
Schultaria Prime - Thankyouthankyouthankyou for not leaving me
hanging.
To All: Thank you all. Credit to Schultaria Prime for a) having a
storefront that has something other than military (honorable mention
to Portland Iron Works) and b) being exceedingly polite in my first
attempts to rp buying something. If I hadn't seen their country while
reading this thread, I probably wouldn't have posted yet, as I am very
nervous about stepping on toes. I spent the first couple of days
reading all the stickies, I think that helped. Lastly, sorry it took me a
couple of days... Real Life Sucks :)

IC:

Violet Harris squirmed uncomfortably in her seat. Her blonde hair was pulled back tightly into a bun, too tightly and the beginning of a headache distracted her. Well, if she was going to be honest with herself, the beginnings of a headache and disbelief...

"I'm sorry Mr. Prime Minister, what was that?"

"I said you're in the cabinet, Vi. Oh, wait, if I'm Mr. Prime Minister, that makes you Minister of Foreign Affairs... or Foreign Affairs Minister. I'd pick one and stick with it, though. Entirely up to you, but you'll save us some money on letterheads." The newly elected Prime Minister of Silverrock leaned back in his chair and grinned his famous grin.

That nearly got him elected on it's own, thought Vi. Her mind seemed determined to not focus on the words, noticing details instead. A grin of comfort to our people, a devious smirk to his enemies, and an all-knowing wise smile to anyone. "I'm sorry, sir, wha - ?"

"Pay attention, Vi. This is the third time I've gone over it in, what, five minutes? Foreign Affairs? Other Countries? Them not Us?"

"Sir, we don't have any ties to other - "

"I guess you'll have to help me until we do then. I need you in the cabinet, Vi, even more than in the election." PM Rocks' face was serious now, no hint of smile.

"You don't need me, sir, you nee - "

"CRAP!", exploded the PM. "I'm opinionated and stubborn and I don't much like the people nor this job all of you have stuck me with. But if I'm going to do it, I need people I can trust and especially you." He softened his tone a little, "Vi, people don't much like me. They just liked me more than anyone else. They do like you though. Everyone does. Whatever it is, you've got it, you're approachable, you listen and you give good advice... even if it's not what we want to hear." He smiled ruefully. "I know THAT well enough. In addition to all that, you're the only one who can keep Glinsky and I from tearing this country apart, or each other for that matter. How you ever convinced me to make him Finance as well as Deputy I'll never figure out."

"But, sir, it made so much sense. It brought us together..."

"That's what I mean, Vi. I think Vlad Glinsky is a number-crunching, souless, S.O.B. I don't like him. Like I said, I don't like anyone much. As a leader, that's not bad, just consistent. As a Foreign Minister, it's death. You, people instinctively like and trust." He paused, and flashed that grin again. "Even me."

"Very well, sir.", said Violet, "I accept the post. Besides", and it was her turn to smile, "we don't know anyone. How hard could it be?"

***

Violet Harris looked at the pile of papers in her in-box, compared it to the pile in her out-box. A good thing I'm studying foreign languages, she thought, I'm running out of swear words.

It had all seemed so simple, so right. Aid to Praetonia, letting Schultaria know we knew, being... friendly. Apparently, she had not realized the response it would bring. Memos from fourteen different offices, internal numbers, domestic issues almost daily... Stop it. That isn't your job. This is. She leaned back, closed her eyes and stretched. Rubbing her temples she thought to herself, Well it can't get any worse. Opening her eyes, her glance fell on the wall clock. Unless I'm late for a meeting.

Running down the hall, she REALLY needed those swear words.

***

"Enough!", shouted the Prime Minister. "I scheduled five minutes for this meeting, we're going on forty-five. Sum it up, by Ministry. Vi, you were five minutes late, you go last. Use the time to give thanks that the meeting went longer! Science!"

"We have nothing to report, we are waiting for an update from... well, from Foreign Affairs."

A withering glance from the Prime Minister made Violet vow to start studying ancient languages as well...

"Urban!"

"Schultaria Prime, Designwerks has forwarded a most generous offer and, after consulting with Finance, we feel sure that work will begin relatively on time and, additionally, we can afford to start work on an underground atrium for emergency situations. Project Name: Haven. They have also offered us a twenty percent discount in the name of goodwill and friendly relations. I replied with favorable intentions, but as this is a Foreign Affairs issue, we are still waiting for a reply from that department."

Sign Language? Do they have swear words?

"Finance!"

"We're stretched thin. But it's doable. I make no guarantees if we hit a recession. You're playing this fast and loose, too fast if you ask me."

"I didn't. Foreign Affairs!"

"We have word from Schultaria that our donation to Praetonia was recieved, but no direct word from them yet. Just third hand reports that are unreliable. Sorry, Kim." She shrugged helplessly at the Science Minister, "As soon as I get back, I'll send you everything I've got. Probably the most important memo I have is from another ally of Praetonia, Vastiva. They want to thank us for the help, warn us that the terrorist group Jaxus Nine has been known to follow up threats of retaliation, and, most importantly, wish to open diplomatic ties and free trade with us. Sir, with the goodwill generated, I think we should leap-"

"Impossible!"

Everyone turned to stare at Vlad Glinsky, Minister of Finance.

"That anyone wants to be friends with us knowing we've got you, Vlad?", queried the Prime Minister. He hated interruptions and was tired of the bickering.

"I'm going to ignoe that... Frank... because this is too important. Free trade would kill us. Our economy won't stand up to it. In three years, we'll be little more than a vassal to this..."

"Vastiva, but we can't afford to ign-"

"WE CAN'T AFFORD free trade right now. Period."

"ENOUGH!" The room fell silent. The Prime Minister spoke. "He's right."

"But, sir..."

"I said enough, Violet. See if we can trade wood chips or something. Maybe they make a lot of books. But we can't enter into the free market yet. We'll get eaten alive."

"Yes, sir, I'll try to put the best face I can on the letter." She sighed. More work, not less, and no end in sight.

"You'll do better than that. You're going."

"WHAT?!?"

"QUIET!!!" The Prime Minister spoke quietly into the silence. "I remember when we wrote the constitution that 'Cabinet Ministers serve and assist the Prime Minister in his duties'. Nothing here about turning his office into a DAMN DEBATING SOCIETY. Violet, we can't allow it to seem that we are offending Vastiva in any way. You're going, in person, to make sure it happens. Send them a message. Embassy, trade in wood-chips, as that's our biggest industry, and find out all you can on this Jaxus Nine. If we are walking on thin ice, I want to know where the cracks are. Also, appoint an assistant. The job is getting too big for one person. Look at how much help I have... and I'm still screwed." He turned to his Ministers of Urban Planning and Science, "Before Violet leaves, get everything you can from her. Matthew, you're in charge of communicating with Designwerks until Violet gets back, gets caught up, or the ten-year project is built... any takers on which happens first? Kimberly, you find out what is happening in Praetonia. I want to know everything we can about their attack. If we know what they've done, we can at least prepare for the worst. That's all, people. Vlad, stick around."

As the door closed behind her, Violet started over on the swear words she did know, interspersing them with ones she made up on the spot.

***

"Look-"

"Shut up, Vlad. Speak again, for any reason, until you leave this room, and you're fired."

Vlad Glinsky looked into the Prime Ministers eyes and saw only barely suppressed fury.

"This office may be new but it will be treated with dignity and respect. If you EVER call me anything but Prime Minister in an official capacity again, I will bury so far, they'll have to ship daylight to you. On a personal note, attempt your little games like that with me again, in ANY way, and you won't need daylight. I will make your life so miserable, that you will quite simply be dead." Prime Minister Rock coldly turned his back and walked to the window. "You may now say 'Yes Sir.' Anything else and I'll know you want a drastic career change."

"Yes. Sir." Grinding his teeth in anger and humiliation, Vlad slammed the door to his office. "Get me someone in Foreign Affairs! NOW!", he yelled into his phone. As he waited, he managed to reign his temper in. Don't get mad, he thought, get...

"Foreign Affairs? Yes, could you send me anything you have on this... Jaxus Nine? I need to plan for cost effectiveness. Just in case. Thanks."

Power.

***

OOC: I am unsure if this is where I should be posting. I am trying to relate as much as I can to Praetonia, while building a history/cast for myself. Again, any comments appreciated.

To: Namaste,
Raahmid Javani
Grand Vizier,
Humble Servant of His Magnificence, the Sultan of
Vastiva

From: Violet Harris, Minister of Foreign Affairs
The Dominion of Silverrock

Greetings,

First, we need no thanks for aiding a country who is victimized by monsters, but we welcome your friendship. Although we are a small country, our people are proud and would not choose too stand idly by during a time of crisis. We only wish we could do more.

Secondly, we thank you for your warning, but we realized this when we decided to help. Your promise of aid is both welcome and appreciated. With your permission, our Prime Minister wishes me to travel and meet with the dignitary of your choice in the hopes of negotiating a Mutual Aid Against Terrorism Agreement. We look forward to your response.

Lastly, we welcome the establishment of diplomatic ties with Vastiva. We hope to negotiate towards those ends as well.

With warmest regards,

Violet Harris, Minister of Foreign Affairs

The Dominion of Silverrock

OOC: Right, well I’m going to try and proceed, again. If there are more problems I’m willing to edit or,… something.

IC:

NNAO Agent Alexandra Hemmingway broke the water first. It was her team and she felt it only fair. With her helmet above water she took full advantage of the opportunity to use the suit’s full array of visual enhancements. After a quick sweep of the IR, UV, and telescopic plain sight she spoke into the suit’s onboard system. With no perceivable delay the rest of the team received the command spoken over the microwave.
“Clear, proceed to the tree line.” Crouched like the trained predators they were the remaining five members of her team surfaced, the water falling easily from their armored suits. With very little water disturbance they prowled up to the tree line. Disappearing into the natural cover the team’s rear man checked their six for one last sign of their detection. Seeing none he continued inland with his unit.

“Sit Rep.” They’d been waking for hours and Alex was now wondering if this mission wasn’t as well thought out as it might’ve been.
“Well ma’am soon we’ll be coming out of the country side and into the hot zone.”
“ETA?”
“Another four hours.” They were making good time as far as walking went, though she wished that the country was some small impoverished nation that they could airlift into. Regardless the mission seemed to be going according to plan, this next part would be the interesting bit.
“We’ll stop here to transmit.” The team stopped and began to pull out their bits of the comms system. This far inside a first world nation secure communications was an interesting conundrum. With every business now being wi-fi and satellites polluting the space above the country the NNAO had deemed it necessary to take some extra steps to ensure an untraceable transfer. The system was ingenious really. A narrow band laser pulse broadcasted to a dummy satellite in orbit. The dummy satellite broadcasted static, as so many defunct satellites do, but at a certain mathematical formula. The ground station locked onto that and made a quick broadcast. Of course any reply was not secure but that wasn’t apart of the plan. Packing up again the team members began their walk anew.

---------------------
A message awaited the Praetonian executive when he got back to his computer. The President of Nova Hope had contacted him with an official E-mail.

Sir;
I must apologize for not sending aid sooner, but I feel I am obliged to do so. Not out of a moral responsibility or out of a guilty pang but out of generosity. The soulless bastards that have attacked you have also struck another TAPRES ally, Granzi. While we do not want our aid broadcast we are here for you. Understanding the need for quarantine what I propose is this. The medical ship Nightingale has been dispatched to your nation. It will sit just inside the blockade and not dock. A team will be dispatched via chopper and a make shift facility will be airlifted into the suburban area North of the Capital. The Nightingale choppers will never land, only supply our skeleton medical team. The medical team will abide by quarantine protocol and only receive via chopper, not send. Also we will be sending a compliment of criminalists to begin investigating the infection’s origins in the suburb. I understand that this is not a priority for your government but please allow my people access for the well being of others.

The wheels are in motion and if you cannot reply I understand, if you must send us away then I will begrudgingly accept that too.

President
Eric Lincoln
----------

NHMS Nightingale

“Then we’re off.” The captain was speaking more to himself than the bridge crew. A trained medical doctor and an experienced captain he was still wary of operating in quarantine situations. While there was a negligible risk to his own crew he was wary of putting ashore the criminalists and first responders, as well as the three man security contingent. The ship was delivering supplies to the Noviet colony on Manium when they were called back to First Port. The specialists and supplies where sent in on a high speed cargo plane and they’d spent the night loading them. Now the ship was under its own power and at flank speed for the island nation of Praetonia.
“XO, you have the bridge.”
“SIR!” The XO called for a status report and began to settle into the captain’s chair as the actual captain pulled the bulkhead closed behind him. Walking to his quarters the captain pulled off his hat to smooth his hair. Pausing mid smooth he thought about the morale of the team to be sent ashore. Perhaps I should check in on them.

Arriving in the mess the captain looked about as the crew snapped to attention.
“I’m looking for the shore bound.”
“Here sir.”
“As you were room.” The men and women in the room went back to their daily routines with a minimal of side glances to see what the captain was doing in the mess. Striding up to the man he recognized as the leader of the expedition Captain Donald Godwin smiled at his brother.
“How are you doing Franklin.” Smiling his younger brother shook his hand laughing.
“Pretty good Don. You run a tight ship, never thought or hoped I’d get to see it in action.” Donald smiled at that. His younger brother had went into the service as a medic and now an officer he was still not privy to the standards of the navy.
“Well Frank I didn’t come here to socialize.”
“Figures.” Donald shook off the informality of the man, it was why family didn’t serve together.
“How are your boys holding up?” Franklin paused at that, exhaling slowly he looked up at his older brother. The question was legitimate and there was concern in his brother’s eyes, but Franklin would’ve still preferred not to answer it.
“Pretty good, pretty good. They’re all ready to do it but they’re nervous. Hell I’m nervous.” Almost as an after thought he flashed his teeth in a smile, “but we could all use the danger pay we’re getting.” Donald shook his head at that. His younger brother always looked for that silver lining, though some extra credits seemed hardly worth it if you were infected.
“I’m ordering a detour.”
“Oh?”
“Yea, the comms sent out a message to the Vastivians, they have a vaccine. I’m hoping that there’s some in their colony because we’ll be passing pretty close to their colony’s main port.” Franklin nodded, waiting for his brother to continue. “If the Vastivians are willing we can take it in as apart of our cargo, we have room for a mid sized shipment.” Franklin nodded. The vaccine would be helpful, both for his people and for the Praetonian population at large. The two brothers looked at each other for a time before Donald broke the silence.
“Yea…” Without bothering to finish his though he nodded curtly and began to leave. When Donald was at the door his brother shouted after him.
“Contra Felicem vix deus vires habet!”

Message sent to the Vastivian Government

The NHMS Nightingale will be passing near Sisu Arshu and are requesting any surplus of the small pox vaccine. The Nightingale is bound for Praetonia and needs the vaccine for both general inoculations and the protection of our own people. Financial compensation will be given at a later date.
repeat
The NHMS Nightingale will be passing near Sisu Arshu and are requesting any surplus of the small pox vaccine. The Nightingale is bound for Praetonia….

Elsewhere in the world

Imperator Gilbert Orvis was done work for the day. It’d been an exhausting day but now the snare was set. With every base covered now the group could only wait. Watching every broadcast that was applicable they had three teams ready in shifts to hit the broadcast location of the next Jaxus Nine. The Imperator shook his head thinking about the expense that was being inccured.

Message sent to the Vastivian Government

The NHMS Nightingale will be passing near Sisu Arshu and are requesting any surplus of the small pox vaccine. The Nightingale is bound for Praetonia and needs the vaccine for both general inoculations and the protection of our own people. Financial compensation will be given at a later date.
repeat
The NHMS Nightingale will be passing near Sisu Arshu and are requesting any surplus of the small pox vaccine. The Nightingale is bound for Praetonia….




NHMS NIGHTINGALE... PORT KARII BASE WILL TRANSFER DOSAGES TO YOUR VESSEL VIA HELICOPTER... COMPENSATION DENIED... GOOD LUCK AND GOD SPEED... FIYAAD SHAMSHAN, COLONEL-GOVERNOR, SISU ARSHU... repeats three times

Senior Vice President for Internal Affairs Nicole Lewis and House Speaker Josh Williams were looking intently at the aid package and the communications from Silverrock.

"They're really brave, aren't they," Williams asked Lewis.

"Yeah," Lewis replied. "That must have taken a huge bite out of their budget."

"I'm sure. We certainly wouldn't have had that much money in our budget at that size."

"What do you think we should do?"

"Well, for starters see if we can open diplomatic relations with them," Williams replied. "From there, we'll see if we can sign a non-aggression pact with them. If they've got viable shipyard space, the Portland Iron Works may be thanking us later."

"Good idea. Damn it, where's Lorber when you need him?"

"Mark's in Seaburg for the NATO conference."

"Oh, that's right." The Senior Vice President for External Affairs usually contacted nations when Sarzonia wanted to open diplomatic relations with them. But he was in Hamptonshire along with Vice President for Defense John Newman. Sarzo was in Pacitalia for a banquet, so that left it up to Lewis.

She decided she would make the opening contact with Silverrock herself. If she got in trouble, so be it. Then again, after knowing Sarzo as long as she had, she figured he wouldn't mind.

On behalf of the government of the Incorporated States of Sarzonia, I would like to thank you for your display of immeasurable courage against that vile bunch of ruffians in Jaxus Nine. I would also like to ask you if you would like to open diplomatic relations with us and possibly sign a non-aggression pact.

Lewis clicked SEND on the message. She knew a copy of her message would automatically reach Sarzo when he opened his laptop, but she figured he wouldn't care that she was taking matters into her own hands.

She would prove to be right.

NHMS Nightingale

The Vastivians had been incredibly accommodating with the vaccine. Captain Godwin was always surprised whenever he talked to a Vastivian. He’d had a fair amount of dealings with them as he ferried to First Port. It seemed that the residents there were starting to black market certain items before a treaty was signed. Nothing sinister but the Vastivian produce fetched a good price and their merchants were very more than happy to oblige, though he had to wonder what the mark up was with those devilishly polite bastards. His brother had been on the comms system for quite some time communicating with the Vastivians on the proper use of the vaccine and its proper administration. Now coming into sight of the blockade the shore bound had all been inoculated. The results seemed good, though one of the criminalists had developed a nasty irritation at the point of injection. The sickbay had proclaimed that it was merely a reaction to certain elements of the vaccine and not a sign of infection or rejection.
“Captain to the bridge.”
Captain Godwin sighed and lifted himself from his bunk. He’d been resting, unable to sleep. Pulling on the top of his uniform, which he’d removed earlier for comfort, he made his way to the bridge.

Stepping out into the bridge he looked up at the XO.
“Sir we’re approaching the blockade.”
“Signal them, our registry, intentions and a request to proceed unhindered.”
“Aye sir.”

Message to blockading ships
NHMS Nightingale to blockade ships. We’re on a mission of mercy to Praetonia, we will observe quarantine procedures. We request permission to take up position just inside of the blockade and conduct supply drops.
Repeat, This is the NHMS Nightingale, we wish to pass into Praetonian waters unfettered.

The Vastivan 2nd Fleet has been withdrawn from operations in this theater.

Our submarine fleet remains on station at this time.