NationStates Jolt Archive

Enveloped in a sentiment, a sound that rushes over me. Engage an impulse to pretend I have a faith as pure. Not forgetting what it means to dream, indulging everything.

Entertaining thoughts that I've the strength of those I yearn to be. Cheers and tribute greet the saviours. Reckless thoughts survive.

Anachronistic and impulsive....

And what will happen? Will I dream? I am too scared to close my eyes. For a second please hold me. None can change in me these things that I believe. But I don't know what happens now, I am too scared to close my eyes.

-Legion-
VNV Nation

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

Dreadfire spent hours starring at the stone busts that lined one of the less frequented rooms in the Great Hall. The room was a tribute to the great rulers from long ago, from times so far back that modern history had barely any recollection of them. He starred at the stony face of President Kaye, of Dictator Automagfreek, of Lord Rising Sun....

Rising Sun, now there was a Warlord. Outnumbered, ill equipped, and on the verge of defeat, he lead a daring full out charge down the slopes of the ULE Valley. His enemies did not expect such a move, and within moments the heathens were defeated and Automagfreek was born, molded from blood and fire. Lord Rising Sun would not live to see his country unified, for he was killed nearly two thirds of the way down the hill.

He was honored as a hero, as a revolutionary, as a God....

Dreadfire bowed his head and moved on down the line, hundreds of stone faces frozen in time, some of their stories lost to time. But how would he be remembered? As another stone face? As another lost relic in Automagfreek's history?

Certainly Damien's epic life story was one worthy of the history books, but there had been many other Freek leaders before him who did much more. President Kaye spearheaded not one, but two World Wars on the side of good. Two conflicts that had the world at it's own throat, and both times AMF won.....both times AMF came out stronger. Kaye also pulled Automagfreek back together after the first AMF Civil War, and although he had been captured by terrorist forces, he still managed to come out on top.

Kaye's story was one that could easily eclipse that of Damien..... But how many people in this modern day and age know of such a man? Only those who were there.....

Damien finished looking across the wall of busts and turned towards another wall that housed great paintings of ancient battles long past. The Great Charge was among them, and so were World War 4 and World War 5. Both AMF Civil Wars. The Coaltion War against Melkor Unchained, Damien's only failure to win. A cease fire to him did not mean victory.

After several hours of deep thought, he emerged from the room and returned to his private chambers. For weeks his fleets had been on high alert, prepared to strike at the vessels that lay on the outskirts of his new waters. Should he strike? Perhaps. Should he set an example? Without a doubt. He opened a communications link with his son Azrael who was stationed on his personal flagship, the War Nerve.

Son, this is Damien. I want your ships to leave the outer reaches of our waters and head southeast. There you will find a small island inhabited by only a few thousand. I want you to take your Sentinels there and make for me an example to those who sit on our doorstep.

Azrael was silent for a moment. Father, I do not understand. Am I to do this in preparation for war with Hogsweat and the others who mass to our borders?

Damien sighed, trying his best to explain what was happening without spilling the whole plan over the airwaves. Perhaps, but no decision has been made. I am not concered about Hogsweat and the other OMP member who wave their ships in my face. Within minutes their ships would all be sunk if I wished, but I am not issuing you that order. I want you to move to this island and raze it to the ground, leave none alive and take no prisoners. From there I want you to leave a small garrison until Count Anderton arrives to relieve you.

Yes Father.

Damien wondered what the rest of the world would be thinking. He wondered how many would rise to oppose him, and he wondered of how many millions he would have to slay. One thing was certain, a Red Dawn was rising, and through the flames of war he would prove his worth once and for all. Could it be the last thing the great Damien would ever do? Perhaps. Could it be the end of Order and Civilization as we know it? Maybe. Would things ever be the same again? Certainly not.....

Indeed the sky was red as the sleepy island began to stir in the morning hours. The gates of the landing craft crashed down onto the cold sands as hundreds of Sentinels swiftly and silently charged up the shorline. Children were still asleep in their beds, and the men were just beginning to wake.

The first village was caught totally off guard, and they stood absolutely no chance in Hell. It was like the old days all over again. Dreadfire's mandate to never again engage civilians had been thrown right out the window, and as the cameras rolled the Sentinels cut through the populace like a freshly forged sword. Images of hundreds of mutiliated corpses strewn everywhere dominated every scene. Huts and other structures were pillaged and set ablaze, to the tune of women weeping as the Sentinels violated them over and over again.

The heads of the children were mounted on their vehicles as they moved on like a swarm of locusts, destroying everything in their path. A trail of destruction was being carved across the tiny island, and within a half hour the rest of the island had been alerted. But this only made their death that much quicker.

Large scores of napalm were dropped on the more heavly populated areas followed by a massive rain of artillery. The cameras on board the attack choppers that floated overhead caught every gory detail. People running in circles as their flesh burned to ash and fell off their bones. Screaming so loud and horrible that you could not tell what they were saying.

By the time the Sentinels made it to the other side of the island a few hours later, not a soul had been left alive. The remaining bodies were placed in trucks and taken to the outer sands of the island, and there they would be cut into smaller pieces and piked...for the whole world to see.

The images of death and discord were overshadowed by the gruff voice of Lord Dreadfire himself.

~From the desk of Lord Damien the Destroyer, Supreme Warlord of the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek~

For years Automagfreek has laid dormant, and the lessons of the past have been forgotten as a result. No longer do the initials AMF strike fear into the hearts of many....but on this day all that will change. In the darkness we have grown stronger, and those that remember the horrible things the Sentinels were capable of will see once more...and those who have not seen will not have much longer to wait.

This is beast you never knew, this is the carnage that you all forgot existed. This is blood for blood and by the gallon. These are the old days...the bad days...the all-or-nothing days. They're back! There's no choice left. And I'm ready for war.

http://img193.exs.cx/img193/9893/dreadfireflames4fw.jpg
---Damien the Destroyer---
-Supreme Warlord of AMF-

Activity at the Great Hall was surprisingly minimal considering the circumstances. Damien had spent the entire morning in his private quarters, knelt over his sword and deep in prayer. Though he had cursed and defied the Gods many times, on this day he asked for their help. Nonsense Damien... Hissed the essence of The Destroyer inside his head. You do not need their help.....confide in me and you shall taste victory once more. You must tend to your troops and join them on the front line. Only there will you achieve what you seek....

For the first time in many years Damien prepared to lead his Sentinels into battle himself. He spent little time gathering his combat gear, hastily making one last equipment check before making for the docks near Camp Rock. His haunted flagship, the Mouth for War was waiting for him in port, and the trademarked storm cloud lingered high above the unholy vessel. His officers greeted him as he boarded his ship and made for the command tower, and within minutes the Mouth for War set out to sea.

Word began to spread around Automagfreek quickly about Lord Dreadfire leading the charge. Many had thought that he had lost his nerve, becoming more of a politician and less of a warrior. But on this day the Freeks knew that something very important and terrible was about to happen, for thier leader had left the safe confides of ULE City and made for the open sea, where nothing but death awaited.

The entire AMF military had been on high alert, and it was now obvious that they were to begin moving out. The Mouth for War and it's escort ships would meet up with the majority of the Freek Navy by sunset, and from there they would embark on a campaign of carnage.

The footage from the tiny, unnamed island had now made its way across the globe, and as the lumbering battleship made its way to the front line Damien watched the reactions of various leaders and dignitaries around the world. The general consensus was one of concern, but as everyone would soon find out, concern would be an understatement.

As hours fell off the clock the Mouth for War came into sight, and soon the massive convoy of vessles began to move. Without a doubt those near the Cariya Islands would cower and prepare for a fight, even though Dreadfire did not intend to waste ordinance on them.....or did he? The option never left his mind.

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

OOC: Not happy with this post, but it will have to do.

O.O.C. Okaaay, me be kinda scared.

I.C. Prime minister Jim Tuesat sat in his office sitting his morning tea. He neatly placed it back in the saucer and sighed contently. The world was going the way it should. No urgent wars, the prepartions for the 5000th running along smoothly, crime was down, and atrocities being commited elsewhere. It was all so zen. Nothing wrong. He could used to this.

An aide ran in with a message.

"It's from Dreadfire sir."

Tuesat raised an eyebrow. Anytime he got a message from Dreadfire it was bad news. He felt his good cheer disapear. He picked up the telegram and read it. He jumped up and started shouting

"FUCK! FUCK! FUCKING FETH! SHITMONGER!" Tuesat knocked over the cup of tea, spilling the brown liquid over the antique carpet, staining it.

"Sir?" that was his bodyguard David Kanosis

Tuesat handed over the telegram

"Dreadfire has gone and declared war on somebody."

"Ah"

"And since we are good allies, we might want to help him. However most of our military is being refitted, we only have the fifth fleet to spare and the third army group. WE cannot commit much and we can't commit against an unknown enemy."

"Permission to speak freely sir?"

"You always have that permission David."

"We don't have to help. From reading this telegram it seems as though Dreadfire is indeed the agressor and that this is a war to, well, show that he has balls still."

"Interesting. I have to carefully craft a response to this."


From: Prime Minister James Frederick Tuesat of Celack
To: Lord Damien the Destroyer, Supreme Warlord of the Excessively Armed Empire of
Automagfreek
Damien, I wish to have addiational information concerning the recent communique.
I wish information on four points about your movements towards war.
The four points are #1 WHY?, as in why are you going to war. #2 WHO? as in who
are you going to destroy in your quest for blood, guts, gore and glory.
#3 IS THIS TO PROVE TO THE WORLD YOU STILL HAVE BALLS? as in to show the world
you can still kick their asses. and finally #4 CAN WE HELP YOU TO SHOW THE WORLD
THAT WE STILL HAVE BALLS? as in can we show the world that we can kick their asses?

Thank you for your time
Jim F. Tuesat


"Seems rather unproffesional and undiplomatic sir."
"Yes but we are dealing with Dreadfire. An usual approach is called for. Either he will A. Ignore this, B. enjoy and laugh at it which may lead to Celackian military involvement alongside AMF units or C. He becomes offended, declares war against us, and in ensuing destructive war, two of the greatest nations on Earth will fall, NATO will collaspe and the world might possibly dissolve into chaos. In other words option C is also option let's fuck up the world. Alright, let's send this bitch and wait for the reply."

Tuesat withdrew a bottle of whisky and took a sip

"and God help us."

(ooc) It's been a long time since I've hung around in II. I see Azrael's back on the side of the good...last time I heard of him, Damien slew him, or something of that nature...what happened? And what does the OMP have to do with this?

(ic)

President Hansien yawned, shaking himself and silently urging all that espresso to start taking effect as soon as possible. It was already ten in the morning; his first meeting that day was at noon. Zoogiedom had not gotten itself involved in international affairs for so long he could not remember the last time he had met with the joint chiefs of staff and military brass at four in the morning, discussing battlefield operations. Yes, it had been a quiet time.

He dropped in the private lobby shared by his top advisors and cabinet members, and dropped in quite cheerfully. "Well, well, isn't this a fine August morning?" he said brightly.

A set of faces turned to regard him.

"O-okay...bad time?" he offered.


For years Automagfreek has laid dormant, and the lessons of the past have been forgotten as a result. No longer do the initials AMF strike fear into the hearts of many....but on this day all that will change. In the darkness we have grown stronger, and those that remember the horrible things the Sentinels were capable of will see once more...and those who have not seen will not have much longer to wait.

This is beast you never knew, this is the carnage that you all forgot existed. This is blood for blood and by the gallon. These are the old days...the bad days...the all-or-nothing days. They're back! There's no choice left. And I'm ready for war.


"Oh hey, AMF!" Hansien's exuberance didn't die down. "NATO! Those were the days, weren't they? So, who's the unlucky ex-nation-to-be?"

There was more silence from those gathered. Finally, secretary of state Dailey spoke. "My dear Mr. Hansien," he said in a low voice. "You just ruined the atmosphere. This is like the beginning of a good war movie." He shook his head reprovingly. "You just don't know how to watch a good war movie, Mr. President. You just don't know." He produced a bag of popcorn and took his seat, staring intently at the screen with a grave sort of expression on his face.

Hansien shrugged, and continued on. He made a note to give AMF a call, it had been too long, and he wondered on whose shores the Sentinels would be landing.

"Woah, look at that warship. Now, that is a fine warship, my friends." The defense secretary's voice trailed from the previous room. Hansien shook his head. He doubted whether his staff remembered how serious this could be.

*The Holy Empire of Mwarto*

Lord Darigan, King of Mwarto sat with his most senoir advisors discussing how to forge alliances with powerful nations when a messenger came in. "Your higness I have here reports of a war brewing." After takin them and dissmising the messenger Lord Darigan spoke "ONE OF THE MOST POWERFUL NATIONS IN THE WORLD, IF NOT THE GALAXY IS GOING TO WAR. WHAT CAN WE OFFER AMF IN THE WAY OF ASSISTANCE GENERAL MORNINGSTAR."

The man to whom he was speaking, General Lucifer Morningstar, consulted his pad before speaking." We can send him about 300,000 troops, as well as a couple submarines with the new bio-weapons. But thats all I would advise your highness. Anymore than that and we leave Mwarto open for attack."

Darigan dissmised everyone except the general."I WILL BE SENDING A MESSAGE TO AMF TO EXPECT ASSISTANCE FROM US AND I WANT YOU TO LEAD THE FORCES. I WANT MY BEST OUT THERE SO WE LOOK GOOD. YOU'LL HAVE ORDERS AS SOON AS I GET WORD BACK FROM AMF AS TO WHERE YOU'LL BE DEPLOYED. YOU'RE DISSMISED."

------------------------------------------------
--Transmission to AMF--

I AM LORD DARIGAN STEEMOS OF THE HOLY EMPIRE OF MWARTO I HEARD ABOUT YOUR WAR BREWING OVER THERE. I AM WILLING TO ASSIST YOU WITH SEVERAL HUNDRED THOUSAND PARA-TROOPS AS WELL AS 3 TRIDENT-CLASS SUBMAINES WITH SPECIAL WEAPONS. TELL ME THE NATURE OF THIS CONFLICT AND THAT ASSISTANCE SHAL BE YOURS. ALSO TELL ME WHERE TO DEPLOY MY ARMY.

The Shah sat in reflection on the terrace of Persepolis palace, smoking his Montecristo A cigar as he watched the clouds pass by. The ever snowed high Zagros mountain peaks nearby and the sight of the gardens stretching to the wall made him smile as he drew the smoke into his mouth.

All in an instant, that changed as a servant brought to him a message. A message that told the Shah one thing, The power of AMF was being unleashed on the world again. The Shah looked at the evidence, napalming civilians, utter massacres, piking what was left. The Shah smiled a bit, "Damien always knows how to handle a population better than I. Though I will admit he does a damn damn fine job. I spose I ought to tell him what I think, let him know we are behind him and will give him anything he needs, after all, we want to stay on his good side."

Official Statement from the Shah of Parthia

I am always respectful of the amazing abilities of Lord Dreadfire to force a population into submission. As a nation with similar military ideals and tactics, I believe a cordial relationship between our nations should be established. I know we have never really had relations in the past, but I do not see a reason to not have any. We are driven by similar ideals and doctrines, I respect Lord Dreadfire greatly, and though I do not know what you think of my nation, I do believe cooperation is possible. I am willing to support you in any way necessary, your desires for expansion are viewed favorably in Parthia.

-Shah Khosru III

The Religious Commonwealth had enjoyed many years of peace. Primarily focusing once more upon domestic issues and ensuring morality stayed at a reasonable level in Jagada. It indeed had been many years since the short, but interesting feud between the Moral Alliance and the Secular Nations Union. Prime Minister Hunter Norris was back in the sattle after loosing internal party elections for two presidental terms, then regaining it and winning the next election. He was glad though, the Religious Commonwealth had a very proud navy, the Grand Jagadian Fleet. While it had never been called to duty, it was indeed very large and technologically advanced; it was best however if it was truly never needed.

Hunter Norris was listening to recent news reports from around the country on the radio, he perfered to hear the common peoples side of the story on major issues, and hear about some of the less serious issues when he had time. That was of coarse until the news channel broke into a special announcment.

"We have breaking news to report," exclaimed the news anchorman. "Two hours ago the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek launched an all out attack on the small island with only a few thousand peoples. The attack was carried out without mercy as napalm, artillery barrages, and carpet bombings. Reports of rape, pillage, murder, and looting are coming in more and more frequently."

Hunter merely laughed, another dictator in a far off land commiting genocide. Yet, in the back of his mind the name Automagfreek rang out somehow, as if he knew it from somewhere.

"Wait, yes indeed," stated the news anchorman, "Appearntly, the leader of Automagfreek, Lord Damien the Destroyer is making a speech."

For years Automagfreek has laid dormant, and the lessons of the past have been forgotten as a result. No longer do the initials AMF strike fear into the hearts of many....but on this day all that will change. In the darkness we have grown stronger, and those that remember the horrible things the Sentinels were capable of will see once more...and those who have not seen will not have much longer to wait.

This is beast you never knew, this is the carnage that you all forgot existed. This is blood for blood and by the gallon. These are the old days...the bad days...the all-or-nothing days. They're back! There's no choice left. And I'm ready for war.

Hunter felt a pain in his gut as memories arose. During his studies in the past he'd learned of this Damien the Destroyer. And now the name Automagfreek rang out clearly to him. It was in his eyes a nation full of evil. Yet despite Damien's reputation it was what this recent act was committed as a show of what he and his men where capable of.

"My God, my God; what are we to do?" he asked while sitting in his chair, "By our faith and our commitment, we must not permit this savage from pillaging anymore."

Hunter then went into prayer and awaited guidance from God, whom he believed was the only one who could deliver Jagada from Damien the Savage.

Gyrobot peered in to the horizon of the ocean, the cool air of the shores has all but given him a breath of revival. However as he looked into the ocean, he felt an evil aura approaching. Apparently, he sensed that the beast preparing to strike again. He knew it was Automagfreek, the empire was know to create a reign of terror once and know that unless someone big enough cares about this situation, the entire world will fall at AMF's mercy. He then called upon his military advisors and said: "We have obeyed the rules long enough, the devil's army approaches with an unstoppable onslaught of warriors and their unholy war machines. We will have to join in the war, I will send an telegram to Jagada, I will tell him I will join him to slay the beast once and for all. We cant afford another dark age to begin on this already scarred land." With that they entire Gyrobot army prepared themselves for the war of the century. Their chances however are slim to even put a dent on Automagfreek's armor.

OOC: (This is The Velkyan Union until my TempBan expires in 24 hrs.)

Jagarda, Gyrobot, we shall join you in the battle against total evil. For too long have we sat in the sidelines, fighting meaningless battles against meaningless nations. This day, we fight, and this day, we crush the beast who has plauged the earth for too long. The might of 3 grand nations stand before this unholy alliance of evil. Who else shall fight alongside us?

OOC: If you don't have any IC material to contribute to this thread, then please stay out.

And no, I didn't get my 'reputation' by being here since '03 or by having a high post count. Ask those that have been around here for awhile and they will tell you why people speak of me the way they do.

Now, I'm going to have a mod clean up this thread and keep an eye on it. This is for RP only. If you have any OOC comments, please make an OOC thread or post here: http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=439271

[OOC: I must admit AMF, you've always been a great writer, but DAMN you know how to make tension ;)]
DIPLOMATIC STATEMENT: CODE RED
Article 26
Thought for the day: Action is not always the best course
The Free Democratic Republic is currently, and will most likey remain, unless one of our allies is attacked, neutral in the matter. Our Parliament is in the process of voting to dispatch another carrier fleet to the Caryia Islands that caused so much trouble earlier this year.

We condemn both the aggressive actions of all nations currently involved. Again we see Automagfreek striving for war, and many many small nations dooming themselves and their unfortunate people against the wall that the Empire will surely advance onto them.

We are however, officially increasing our Defence Condition [DEFCON] to orange, or (2) two.

The FDR has officially closed all relations and have vetoed the trading of all Hogsweatian State Exporting Corporations with Gyrobot and The Velkyan Union for their already aggressive approach. We do not need to do anymore as the Parthians and Automagfreek are already on our embargo black-list.

We can see via many methods that Automagfreek is building it's forces up and is ready to strike somewhere. We severely advise that the Excessively Armed Empire, despite it's name and it's history does not engage our forces or those of our allies.
Thank you,
Premier Alissa May,
Free Democratic Republic of Hogsweat
~Our Love For Our Country Can Overwhelm Any Obstacle~

OOC: Jesus Christ’s AMF! why did you have to this for? I'm going to have to stand against you and be destroyed, but ell can you write.

IC: William sat in the golden throne, staring out of the window into the heart of his sleeping city, once more snow fell outside and still he stared. Considering his next move.

He hadn't moved for an hour, more, since the news of Damien Dreadfire’s attacks had come in. On huge plasma screens behind him scenes of atrocities committed in the villages rolled, news readers and analysts tried to second guess the great warlord, Aust was in turmoil and all waited the decision of there 17 year old god emperor.

Matt waited in the doorway, watching his cousin think, diverting all requests, and there where many. Finally the chair swiveled and William faced him, his face shallow and withdrawn. "I have seen the future, Matthew." He said, his voice like nails down a chalkboard. "My brother came and showed me the futures that can come for this country." Matt didn't doubt this, it had happened before, "there where two, if we stand with Dreadfire then millions will die, but Aust will survive, as will I. If we stand against him, billions shall die, Aust will be destroyed, I shall die, but the great destroyer shall as well. Tell me which should I choose."

Matt looked at his cousins face, "I do not know, my lord, it is your decision and yours only, but if Aust must sacrifice itself to defeat a great enemy then maybe it must, and your people will follow you anywhere."

William nodded, "Indeed, as I summarized. This crisis may still be averted, but it is unlikely. We shall stand with all those who dare defy the destroyer, and there will not be many. With our air power and Hogsweats navy we may weather the storm." He climbed out of the throne and walked down the marble steps towards his cousin, "military level to red alert, double the garrison at the Bambino peninsular and send envoys to the RWC, Hogsweat and anyone else who may be useful to our cause. I shall write a letter to Damien to try and avert his attacks. Begin a recruitment drive and have the top 20% of conscripts join military, instead of the top 5%. I want the reservists ready to fight, put them on Amber alert. Move the economy to type C.”

“Sire.” Matt ran from the room, he had much to do, he was already shouting down his phone at various underlings, “Sheila! Get me the minister for economics for a 5 o’clock meeting, I want Chris up here for 6. And put plan C into action. I want the Lord High Major Generals for a meeting as soon as possible…” his voice trailed off as he went further from the phone room.

William into his private quarters and poured himself a beer, draining the glass in one and then pouring himself another. He may just have sent his country to destruction because he knew AMF was a powerful nation, but so was Aust, and Austs allies, and they said you needed 3 men to kill one defender.

He changed into his military uniform, had a shower and turned on ABC, the main Aust TV channel. ABC 24 was showing scenes of panic as his orders where carried out and was speculating a preemptive attack upon AMF. How stupid did they think he was?

He walked back to the throne and sent a video message to Damien, he did not know who was on the other end, and did not care, as long as someone in AMF got his message. He kept his voice hard as he spoke down the line, and his face firm.

Damien, Lord of Automagfreek, hear me. I do not know if it is you on the other end of it or if it some servant and I do not care. Your underlings have the same value for me as yourself.

Once more you have committed atrocities against mankind and against your own honor. You have none left now, as you have none of my respect left. You think yourself mighty but you are no more than a man.

What will you be remembered as Damien, how will your history go, as a insane madman, a sniveling coward or a mass murderer? Or will you be rembered at all? In 200 years will anyone know your name? And that is what this is about, is it not. You want a legacy, you want to be rembered for all time as a great man, or maybe you just want to be rembered.

You are willing to sacrifice millions of lives for your legacy, millions of live just for your history. It is a challenge all great leaders must face Damien, but from bloodshed little come, even infamy does not last. Who remembers my Farther, with the blood of 300 million Nuevo Kowloonians upon his hands, or Emperor Tyrius who saved Aust from great enemies.

Who reambers the masters of HLF, that killed 6 million people so as o kill 1000 enemy soldiers. No one does. When I am dead who will reamber me but the historians, yet people reamber Emperor Theoden, who founded Aust City, and they reamber many others who did peaceful acts, Marie Curie, Florence Nightingale, they are world renowned names, more well known that any warlord.

You know that Aust will stand against you, as we have done before, that we shall fight and die until the last breath in the last Austian body is extinguished. I have taken the liberty of ordering my military on red alert, and aiming my nuclear arsenal at your nation, I shall not fire them until I have to choice, until you are at the gates of the palace itself, but will you sacrifice your entire nation for your legacy.

Think, Dreadfire, if all are dead, then who shall reamber you? For the winds of a nuclear winter cannot.

Curator of the Union: Helen Jardine
Official Communiqué

It is with great alarm and consternation that my government receives news of the horrific, unprovoked and immoral attack conducted by Automagfreek against the defenceless and sovereign islands that suffered its unmitigated assault. This is a highly alarming prospect for all sovereign states and a serious threat to the welfare of all communities within the Union. It is with great pain and in the interest of preserving our sovereignty and people’s welfare that be condemn the government of Automagfreek. My government maintains its neutrality in the conflict but prohibits all trade, diplomatic and cultural exchange with Automagfreek and allied nations.

The Grey House, Dowland City

If there was one nation throughout the known regions of the planet that deserved the attention, and fear, of the entire planet, then that nation would have to be the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek. When it deployed its military, every mighty nation on Earth was sure to notice, and prepare for a conflict; for that was the nature of the beast that periodically uncoiled itself and roared forth a challenge to all.

The Grand Republic was no different to any other nation on the planet, especially after the fiasco of AMFs earlier attempt at invasion of Hogsweats Caryia Islands. Though the Grand Republic had avoided that war by a rare stance of isolationalism, one could not ignore AMF forever. Now that it had decided to unleash itself again upon the world, actions would be taken to ensure the Grand Republics survival.

Words were useless against such a nation; diplomacy was unknown to AMF, except in the rare circumstances that negotiations were held, always with the power of AMFs military looming over all parties involved. No amount of words, no matter their intensity or power, would stop the beast; it only understood one thing, and that was power. That was something that the Grand Republic did not have, not when compared with AMF and the larger nations on the international stage.

Still, as the population of those first islands were slaughtered by the dreaded Sentinels, and AMFs fleets headed towards the Caryia Islands, the Grand Republic acted. Three Carrier Fleets, some two hundred and eighty vessels in all, all that could be spared from the Haven situation, were dispatched with all due haste to the Caryia Islands. There they would stand with their Haven brothers, and stand upto the Beast should it dare to unleash itself upon them.

[OOC: I must admit AMF, you've always been a great writer, but DAMN you know how to make tension ;)]
DIPLOMATIC STATEMENT: CODE RED
Article 26
Thought for the day: Action is not always the best course
The Free Democratic Republic is currently, and will most likey remain, unless one of our allies is attacked, neutral in the matter. Our Parliament is in the process of voting to dispatch another carrier fleet to the Caryia Islands that caused so much trouble earlier this year.

We condemn both the aggressive actions of all nations currently involved. Again we see Automagfreek striving for war, and many many small nations dooming themselves and their unfortunate people against the wall that the Empire will surely advance onto them.

We are however, officially increasing our Defence Condition [DEFCON] to orange, or (2) two.

The FDR has officially closed all relations and have vetoed the trading of all Hogsweatian State Exporting Corporations with Gyrobot and The Velkyan Union for their already aggressive approach. We do not need to do anymore as the Parthians and Automagfreek are already on our embargo black-list.

We can see via many methods that Automagfreek is building it's forces up and is ready to strike somewhere. We severely advise that the Excessively Armed Empire, despite it's name and it's history does not engage our forces or those of our allies.
Thank you,
Premier Alissa May,
Free Democratic Republic of Hogsweat
~Our Love For Our Country Can Overwhelm Any Obstacle~


Forgive me hogsweat, I am just....fearful right now. Please do not sever relations with us.

[OOC: Sweet. Been waiting for this for a while.]

Delta sat in silence in his palace at Avalon, occaionally makeing comments with the Executioner, who stood at his side. They were plotting their own reminder of days gone by, unawares that the Freeks had stepped up allready.

An aide opened one of the grat doors and leaned inside, bringing but the eyes of Delta and Gar to him. Speaking up quickly, he explained all that had happened, knowing that if his words were not important or clear, his life was forfit.

Standing slowly, The Beast waved a hand and the underling was gone. He turned to look at The Executioner. >Ready the Vladimir.< he said, in the feral tongue, getting a nod from Gar, who left as quickly as the underling, scattering people in the corridors as he made his way down it at a loping gait.

---------

The lands of Crimmond were silent. While some always take that as them not paying attention, it is usually a sign that they are about to get very vocal indeed.

The three port cities in Gholgoth all cast off their moorings and set to the sea only three scant hours after Delta had scrambled the fleet. He looked at the men as they moved around the deck of the carrier. It would be the first time this crew had seen combat. A small fleet, compared to Damien's or the Evenstar's, it was what he had. Sixty surface ships and nearly double that beneath the waves cruised from the waters of the Blessed Shores, towards war.

Coded messages were sent through the fleet. Once unscambled, it was a recording Delta had made. "You, who are human and not Civil, have never seen combat. You think you cannot do this. That you do not believe death is rght or think that you could not live with yourself if you ended one. Well... I don't give a damn about what you believe in and what you live for! It's time to but all that bullshit behind you... It's killing time and someone is going to die today. What matters is who. Forget about everything else. You kill as many of them as you can without getting yourself killed and we'll win. Civils! You are the fiercest warriors of my lands. Stand beside the fiercest of the world and fight until you have either killed every enemy or the enemy has killed all of you. I will stand with you when those landing craft door crash into the waters. The Executioner shall stand by your side as well. But enough talk! Make ready and prepare for battle!"

As he heared the message playing, Delta walked the flight deck and then went into the hanger decks, to find Gar. He fround him in one of the unused maintenence areas, sharing war tales of centuries ago with the Civils, who ate them up like children. "Gar... my armor was brought aboard?"

The armored spirit nodded. "It was. You will find it in the main Marine Armory... I thought it best if you were seen suiting up with the Marines, for morale."

As the hours passed, the fleet approached Damien's fleet en route, slowly gaining on them. A simple message was sent, uncoded and unadorned. Damien would know the voice as Delta's instantly. He would know the faint chill that accompanied it as well. "Let us remind the world what monsters men can be."

---------

In Europe, the lands of Crimmond were also preparing for war, lest some enemy try and sneak in a blow behind Delta's back. Assault Marines and Civils massed at the borders and in cities, but left the countryside to 'fend for itself' for the most part, as much of it was unusable land anyway.

General of the Army Meridius was in the field while General Marco was in the capital, handling both politics and war preparations.

http://home.earthlink.net/~alpha_zero_usm/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/deltareturn1.jpg
Khan Delta

http://usera.imagecave.com/Alpha-Zero/executioner1.JPG
Gar the Executioner (http://usera.imagecave.com/Alpha-Zero/executioner.JPG)
Hunter of the Blessed Shores
Warlord of Avalon

Encrypted message from Aust to Hogsweat.
Freind. Our intellagence reports show a AMF force heading towards your domains, which we understand are known as the Cariya Islands. We also understand that you must be in dire need of assistance, thus we offer it to you.

We can move several air wings to your aid and disposale within hours and have a taskforce on the said Islands within days. With your navel power and our air power I ablive that we should be able to contain the AMF attack before he reaches landfall and can unleash his most pwoerful weapons.

Prince Mathew of Aust

OOC: Sorry for poor post-I'm short in time.

They seek to punish you Dreadfire. They think you weak.....

The words of Bastien, a friend long departed, echoed in Damien's head. Once again it had come to pass...the world was rising to challenge him and his power. Dreadfire knew that the hounds of Gholgoth would not sit back and let one of their most valued defenders fall under the gun. Perhaps this was a World War in the making, although he scoffed at such a notion.

His Sentinels had finished their work on the first tiny, nameless island. In their wake they left nothing but broken bodies and ash, an all too familiar reminder of the power the Sentinels possessed. But then again, the Warlord thought, most would think an attack on civilians to be cowardly. Without a doubt a much larger and more formidable target would be required. But the age old question once again plagued him: who?

The problem with modern warfare is that nations are involved in so many alliances that contain so many members that it is near impossible to engage in any form of military aggression. Damien remembered standing at the head of the classroom at his officer training session, and the words he dished out held too true. Therefore, an Empire such as our own cannot exercise its birthright and expand its territory. The student officers began to stir in disappointment. BUT, I have a solution for you all. We take one single nation, large or small, isolated or not, and raze it to the ground in the most creative and vile manner possible. This will serve as a reminder to the rest of the world that staying out of our business is best, and therefore we can expand our Empire with relative ease.

Yeah right.

Times had changed...the world changed...but the Empire has remained the same. Would that be its downfall or saving grace? Dreadfire scorned himself for thinking too much, something he would never do. Only politicians care about saving face, and you are no politicker. That devious beast, The Destroyer, spoke inside the Warlord' head. Eliminate those that oppose you, and there will be none brave enough to stand up to you. Do it, do it now.

There were only two nations who had dared to become overly vocal towards the Empire, Guffingford and Praetonia. Surely Damien would not waste his efforts on a feeble minded German populace, so that narrowed the list down. No final order had been given, in face Damien had not told anyone of his choice of target....or if he would change his mind if a better target came along. He had time, not a lot, but he had time.

As he walked the decks of the Mouth for War, a transport helecopter touched down, and out stepped a messenger. He trotted towards Damien and handed him a sealed letter, and minutes later the chopper lifted off and flew back towards the AMF mainland. The letter was from his daughter Silvia, who was tending to internal matters while he and Azrael ride into destiny. The letter was short and simple, a hint of her perfume rising from the folded paper inside.

Infect with all dissolved memories of one. Why did you care, when you never cared before?

I've become an instrument of your twisted flashbacks, still you condemn me for my mistakes. A curse to your saviors will.

You stare so emotionless, but still I face down. Your heart dies with every breath of this poison.

Annihilation.

I cannot, I will not, I won't forget. Now I must stand for who I am.

And every picture that I see is of you and every time you cry. Because your past can't run away...you can't run away from this, you cannot hide.

You can't hide from this, it won't begin.

-Just anothe Pretty Face-
Bleeding through

That all too familiar song played out in his head as he placed the letter back inside the envelope.

The United Solaris Federation of Tiburon could be most accurately described as the odd man out of the New Alliance Treaty Organization. Leaning very much towards the Triumvirate of Yut in an alliance containing two Arda nations, a FT nation in an alliance of MT nations... it was certainly an interesting union.

[i]80 Astral Avenue, Crystal City, the USF of Tiburon

Tiburon was not a warmongering nation. Their preferred method of destruction was the diplomatic "screw you", which at times could produce much greater effect than military action. Needless to say, the news of a new Freekan war was not taken well in the Presidential Residence.

President Lykaga sat in his chair, drinking his usual coffee. The news this morning, however, forced him to, in a sense, "de-drink" said coffee. "Shittin' hell! What the fuck is this guy pulling?!"

Jerry Yao, the National Intelligence Director, was with him. "Well, as the history shows..."

"I know, I know. Shows of wanky strength. I don't give a damn. I'm not going to support this until he's attacked on his own soil. It's a mutual defense treaty, dammit."
------------------------------------------
<Sent via OMNINet>
<Classification: Secret>
<To: Lord Damien Dreadfire, the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek>
<From: President Altair Lykaga, the United Solaris Federation of Tiburon>
<Subject: War in the Caryia Islands>

Lord Dreadfire,

The nation of Tiburon, although able to prove its military superiority quite easily in world affairs, as your nation is, is not a warmongering state and does not have much of an appetite for unnecessary wars. It is therefore with great regret that I inform you that Tiburon is unable and unwilling to support Automagfreek in the context of NATO in these endeavours. This does not reflect the least on our position towards NATO, and shall continue its pledge to help protect the nations of NATO to the best of its ability.

Sincerely,
President Altair Lykaga,
The United Solaris Federation of Tiburon

OOC: Hey! You ripped off my title idea and slapped on "to come"!

"What in the name of all the Gods has he done now?" The old Hound snapped at Dayne, his leathery face creased into a frown. Back from Crimmond briefly, the old man had inspected the Evenstar's active fleets in AMF waters and found their disposition to be satisfactory for the coming fire. Though they sat on the northern side of teh AMF mainland, their guns could reach combat effectiveness in less than two hours, with aircraft already prepped for immediate takeoff.

No, the old Warhound was not pleased at the circumstances, but he knew that Pantera was ready for war. In Europe their position was stronger than ever before. His own ships sat in the Crimmond harbors, ready to smash the British, when the time came. But Dayne would have none of that. The matter of pride aside, a war on mainland Britain would never accomplish anything. But, now Dreadfire had gone and caused such a bloody mess, that thought of Panteran conquests were thrown out the window, for the moment.

Both the old Hound and the young Evenstar knew the precarious position Gholgoth, and even AMF's NATO, was in. All or nothing, do or fucking die. Though Damien hadn't really declared war, his intentions for large-scale warfare was more than clear. With the cowering nations of the world so eager to tear down the AMF juggernaut, surely one of their number would rise to lead the counter-attack, once Dreadfire was commited elsewhere.

"You will not return to Europe, my Hound." Said the Evenstar, and his words hung in the air for a few moments,"No. You will fly south and assume the command of the southern Fleets. I intend to bring part of the European fleet out of Crimmond and back to the homeland. Until then, you will strengthen our position and plan for any scenario in Dreadfire's coming folley."

And there it was. Though he had not announced his intentions, the Evenstar had just commited Pantera and all her might, once again, to the defense and assistance of Damien and all his madness.

"Then may the Gods drink their fill, Evenstar." And the old Reaver rose, obedient to his Lord's will.

The Baltic fleet was being conctructed alongside the Panteran ships that were in the completion stages. Many of the ships were tied to the docks, while several refitted Panteran ships were sliding back into the water, bearing repairs and modifications. New Swarm missile pods sat on the decks, ready to pound enemy hulls into swiss cheese, or be launched into the sea as torpedo decoys. They were sent off with the blessing of the Crim, who were boarding Superemacy class submarines and a single Domination class. From the Baltic came allmost a hundred sensor echos and pings. The Shadow Packs were going to hunt.

[sorry for the shortness, but I don't have a lot of time]

[OOC: Very nice writing on all parties, and I hope myself I am able to contribute to this, although I am semi-new.]

====Presidential Office, HailandKill===
It was 0600 HailandKill time, when the president had awoken a few hours earlier than he usually did. There was nothing special about the day, but something had disturbed his normal sleep patterns in the last few days, wreaking havoc on his body. The president got dressed in his casual, but business-like clothes, and headed for coffee. The coffees caffeine had started to help awake the groggy president when he was intercepted by a secret service officer
“Sir, the NSA would like to see you immediately, he says it’s urgent and requires you immediately to your office”
“Right” He replied

The president followed the secret serviceman to his own office, where business and most briefings were done. He walked in to see his NSA waiting for him with a large dossier, and the president mentally noted that the only one he had seen larger was during the Saharistani war, when HailandKill was almost destroyed by nuclear missiles.
“You better sit down Mark” The NSA said “This ones big”
“Lay it on me” The president replied between gulps of coffee “What’s the huge deal”
“There was a large attack on a civilian island by Automagfreek, killing an estimated 2000 innocent civilians, and many major countries are going to make a response”
“You want mine?”
“Well sort of, but myself and the joint chiefs would like to know how you are going to handle this, I mean shit all this could be a massive war”
“Hmm….There was a conflict over AMF expanding its waters a few weeks back correct?”
“Yes sir, it seems there is still some sort of standoff between AMF and opposing nations”
“Seems to me like AMF wanted to prove they are quite a lethal and volatile nation, thus leading me to believe that many nation will see it as such and not make a move”
“Sir?”
“I did not see a problem with his expansion of national waters and I do not see a problem with this”
“Sir that’s barbaric!” Interjected the NSA
“That may be true, but he did get his point across, and I will heed to it. However, I am not going to declare any support to any nation until I get the facts, plus I don’t want this nation to be another AMF crony. My response is this, we are neutral, but I want a Maiden Class in the area, but KEEP THAT BOAT IN INTERNATIONAL WATERS, I don’t want a war, or a cover-up or 200 sailor’s deaths.”
“Yes sir, I will have a sub headed out there within the hour”
"Excellent, I also want updates on this, and get a sattelite to make passes over the general combat area, plus i want all our armed forces put on high alert"

-----45 mins later, Naval City, HailandKill----
CO Ron Taylor had gotten the call. He was told to report to his ship, the Rattlehead, and await further orders. He did not like secretive plans in any way, but he knew, by the nature of the call that this was urgent. After he arrived at the docks, he and his crew were briefed, they were all told of the present situation around AMF. He and his crew were told he was going to operate, as stealthily as possible, as close to the combat area, but remain in international waters and they were explicitly and directly told not to fire on any nation unless fired at, and only use his fighters for recon only. Almost an hour later the mooring lines were cast off the ship as the big black submarine headed as close as it could get to the conflict zone without leaving international waters.

OOC: Tag for now until I get a chance to provide a proper post.

"...just tell me if we're going to have to get involved in this one."

Snowlander was exhasperated, he'd been told everything about AMFs current situation except how it would effect them.

"As you are fully aware, if Lord Dreadfire should lose, thatwe would be losing one of our most powerful and beneficial allies. Our economies would take a hit, and the prospect of AMFs intervention would no longer keep our enemies at bay. Nations just don't fear us like they used to."

The speaker, Snowlanders favorite officer (and wife) Julia Snowlander, was right. Snowlander knew it and she knew it. They had to help. "Julia, get the preparations on the move. I have to do a few things."

Julia leaned over and kissed the General on his cheek. "Brad, don't worry. With us and Gholgoth helping, AMF could never lose."

He tried a smile, but it came out week and unsure. Julia patted him on the cheek and left the room.

He picked up his phone and dialed a number. When it answered, there was a series of three beeps. Snowlander replied,"Tango Charlie Six Six Five Nine." The phone began to ring. A voice on the other end answered,"Steve's Computer Repair."

"The sand is picking up. The storm commences. Where, we don't know."

"Sir, I don't know who you are, but I have better things to do than answer a crank call."

The line went dead. Snowlander smiled. He would expect an update on SCR (Sandstorm Computer Ravager) within the hour. This should prove to be a very profitable war.

Bump

M'Lord, our allies flock to our banner. All does not seem lost after all. Chirped Hartman over the audio feed. Damien nodded his head and issued his usual reply. Good. Let them know their support is welcome, and if they wish to put their own into the fire for the sake of Automagfrek, they do so knowing that many of them may never come back. Automagfreek is prepared to sacrifice everything to achieve its goals, they must not be afraid to sacrifice as well.

Hartman complied and began to broadcast his message across the globe. Meanwhile, the target had been chosen and the fleets were shifting their position accordingly. A formidable naval garrison had been left behind to ensure the safety of the AMF mainland and its supply lines. With a small coalition fleet stationed at the Cariya Islands, it would be foolish to leave AMF's waters unprotected.

On the sea beds lay hundreds of Resi Corporation Crawlers, equipped with magnetic 'smart' mines, the 'friend or foe' identification system being its most prominent feature. The hidden and highly encrypted signal broadcast by every Freek ship allows them to sail right over the mine deposits, but as soon as the Crawler detects a ship not broadcasting the special signal, it unleashes its payload. Between the surface vessels and the traps that lie in wait on the ocean floor, Automagfreek was safe.

Industry across the nation had shifted into wartime production, as things were now being made official. The many tribes of Automagfreek were put on alert and ordered to ready their tribal garrisons in case of an assault on the AMF mainland. By the hundreds, tanks, planes, and cargo vessles were rolling off the assembly lines. By the thousands, Freeks were taking up arms and preparing to defend their homes if need be. By the millions, the people united behind the capable hands of their leader.

Lord Dreadfire has yet to lead us astray. Through thick and thin he is a man of the people, bringing us back to glory after the destuction of the second AMF Civil War.

The anchor on the national news channel spoke not from cue cards or a teleprompter, but from his heart.

Though hated by many, our Lord Damien would give his life in an instant to protect the legacy of Automagfreek which he has helped to forge. Never once has he declared war on another nation without just cause. Never once has he put the Freeks in danger, and never once has he abandoned us. It is in this hour that we must unite and stand behind our leader and our military, because certainly we would not be marching off to war unless the future of our people were in peril.

It has been made official mere moments ago. The Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek has declared a state of war with.....

OOC: damm you and your tension building writing!!! Tell us will you!!! I have a defence to organise.

http://img36.imageshack.us/img36/3045/ibcnews6cl.gif

... yes it is official. The Empire of Automagfreek has declared war on yo mama. Yes, the reasons for this seem to be that she is so fat that when she jumps she blocks out the sun. Another reason is that yo mama is so ugly that people thought her face was a halloween mask. Breaking news! The Empire of Automagfreek has also declared war on yo papa. Apparently, yo papa is stupid that he thinks that that MSN is a sort of period women get. The President has released an official statement.

We do not know if we will participate in this war against yo mama or yo papa. We do not know if it is justifiable. But we will not join in a war that is counter productive to the Imperial Union. Thank you.

In other news, yo granddaddy and yo sista also seem to be possible targets for the Empire's rage against the machine, I mean world...

"Madam President!" shouted the young aide as he entered the office with a piece of paper in hand, he paused a moment to catch his breath, "Madam President, Automagfreek has mobilized their entire military and has moved for war."

Elsa Berger had only been President of Aequatio for two weeks, yet she was not unfamiliar with the international affairs of the nation during her time as Secretary of State, she raised to her feet and walked past the current Secretary of State, Matthew Johnson, and the Secretary of Defence, Kurt Lowenthal, to take the paper to read. She had read over the reports of the Automagfreek movements and of the many comments and declarations made by several nations already, including those of Gholgoth, "I think that it would be very beneficial to the Republic that we become involved in this, we cannot allow ourselves to sit in the shadows of the world and let it pas us by... we must return to the glorious days of Presidents Bomfy and Kaye."

"There is no reason for us to become involved in this war of conquest, Elsa!" Interupted the young Johnson, "Nicklas would never approve of this travesty!"

"Blüme was a damn fool, for too long I watched him squander the power and authority he possessed," answered back Berger as she approached Johnson, "He talked of his idolization of Bomfy, yet did nothing to honour him, only soften the nation's reputation and allow us to fall away from the world... he was a coward and a disgrace upon our great Republic!"

Lowenthal had been quiet in all this until he chose to step in, "Madam President, we can deploy our Navy and Marines until we can gain a proper foothold to send our regular ground forces."

"Ahh, yes... the Marine Corps, they have served this nation and others well, they were the saviors of Automagfreek during its troublesome founding... Aequatians, although barely known throughout the world, played a small part in the creation of the juggernaut that is Automagfreek," explained Berger before she turned back towards Lowenthal, "Make it so, inform Damien that we will help in any way we can during all this, we must rise and aid our allies, especially our nation's greatest!"

"Yes Ma'am, I shall send the message myself," said Lowenthal as he turned and left the office.

"You bitch, you've condemned our nation to destruction and we will all pay dearly for our sins by the hands of the people, the Republic will not stand for such corruption for glory and honour that we can no longer collect!" shouted Johnson as he stormed from the office and slammed the oak doors behind him to prevent a single reply from Berger, he stood in the hallway looking upon a painting of President Bomfy, "I'm so sorry, we have all let you down."

*****

Connecting to A-ComSat Matrix...Securing Communication Channel to Automagfreek...Finding Lord Damien Dreadfire...*Found*...Channel Secure...Sending Transmission...

To: Lord Damien Dreadfire of The Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek
From: Secretary of Defence Kurt Lowenthal of The Federal Republic of Aequatio

Lord Damien Dreadfire of Automagfreek,

I send this message on behalf of our glorious President Elsa Berger and her pledge of support to the Empire of Automagfreek of the entire Aequatian Republic. She wishes to return to the days of when Bomfy and Kaye stood side by side as both our nations did at every juncture of our early histories. For the moment we are able to deploy our Republic's Navy and Marine forces to aid in your operations, when it becomes possible, our Army and Air Force shall be sent.

We hope that this message is well-received and we eagerly await your reply.

Secretary of Defence Kurt Lowenthal of Aequatio.

...Channel Closed...Transmission Terminated...A-ComSat Matrix Connection Severed...

"Is it important?" The Minister of Defence shot an icy stare at the Naval attache who had opened his study door, approached his desk and snapped to his attention.

"Yes, Sir Fortuanus," for 'twas his name, "this is from NI2." He laid a leather bound folder on the Minister's desk, snapped to attention once more, turned around and left the room. Sir Fortuanus picked up the folder, which had been stamped with red ink reading 'NAVAL INTELLIGENCE - MOST SECRET'.

He opened the folder and removed the header paper, which was marked with a similar red ink stamp, and began to read:

NAVAL INTELLIGENCE - MOST SECRET

In the Name of His Majesty Sarius Publius I by Order of the Supreme Magister of the Second Department of Naval Intelligence,

Dear Sir,

In the second hour of the 22nd of August satellite photographs were attained showing a military buildup of the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek. In the fifth hour of the same, constructs were detected on the sea floor of the area surrounding the Automagfreekan territorial waters in the region of the Hogsweatian Cariya Islands.

The risk to the Hogsweatian Cariya Islands and the Praetonian assets thereupon and around stations has, in accordance with operating proceedure of the Imperial Praetonian Navy, been raised to HIGHTENED. It is expected that the Automagfreekan forces shall in short order depart their place of bearth and deploy to the territorial waters of a nation as yet unknown. The threat to this nation has been rated as HIGH.

It is believed that the possibility of this nation being the United Kingdom of Hogsweat is between MEDIUM and HIGH. The possibility of this nation being allied or in some way related to the Democratic Imperium, her colonies or her interests is rated as HIGH to VERY HIGH. The chances of our naval forces in the area being able to successfully repel an attempt by the Automagfreekan navy to take the islands are rated as WEAK.

The Department of Threat Analysis and Responce of the Second Department of Naval intelligence has recommended that the following action be taken to avert or at least to prepare for said movement is as follows:

• Order the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Grand Fleets to attain the status of READIED and to retain said status for the following 3 months. (Time Required: 1 day).
• Deploy the PWS Triumphant and accompanying battlegroup to the area around the Hogsweatian Cariya Islands. (Time Required: 2.25 days).
• Recall the Territorial Army and prepare fixed positions along the coastline. (Time Required: 18 - 30 days).
• Draw up plans for a medium term enlargement of the military by means of voluntary enlistment. (Time Required: Unknown).

The advice of the leadership of the Second Department of Naval Intelligence is to implement the above advice, although the Second Department of Naval Intelligence recognises its subservient role with regards to the Minister of Defence and his military, and with regards to Parliament. Should this advice be implemented my Department and I would be considerably relieved with regards to the state of our formidable national defences.

Yours in Service,

Sir Farrus Hardy,
Supreme Magister of the Second Department of Naval Intelligence

Sir Fortuanus Gallius lowered the sheet of paper slowly. He emptied the folder and examined its contents, but all it contained was satellite photographs, sonar and radar extrapolations and all manner of other data which served only to provide proof for what was said in the letter, which he had no reason to doubt.

'This is a mess, he thought to himself, 'If they attack the Cariya Islands now, our forces wont stand a chance. With a pocket superdreadnaught and its battlegroup the odds will be fairer but we still cant hope to stand up to an entire navy. Still, that kind of show of strength may placate the Automagfreekans and that would save an awful lot of hassle.'

"Someone take this paper to the Prime Minister," he shouted and at once someone came into his office and took the leather folder. Sir Fortuanus took still had the top paper on his desk, onto which he scralwed 'I concur.' before dropping it into the still open folder.

alea iacta est

The 2nd Fleet under Fleet Adm. Leopold Stavler sits in the position it has been since the AMF expanded it's water. Stavler is one of the Republic Navy's finest officers. His flagship, the carrier Jospof Wallise sits in the middle of the fleet. He sits in his private quarters looking at the news report from AMF. He decided not to show any signs of threat to Damien's forces. The fleet sits watching the the sea for anything that looks threating.

National Statehouse
Anatoba City, The Absolutionist State of Austar Union

"Chinese, or Italian?" asked Penn the office assistant, poking her head through his office door. "Im thinking a pasta dish would go down well."

Indigo pondered for a moment, and then conceeded with a nod, "Go for the Italian. I wouldnt mind their latest actually."

"Good, I'll be ordering now," she grinned in satisfaction.

Leaving Indigo alone once again, he sighed and relaxed back into his chair. Given that since his trip to Machiavelli Station, Saturn he had made some favorable reforms, he found himself with more time to watch over the more nessasary bits and pieces, rather than having to intervene and make adjustments at every given notice. Naturally of course the Directors were still answerable to him, and forwarded their weekly reports. But today was rather uneventful, as were much of his recent times. In the meantime the weather had been fine, and he had taken a liking to his new exersise regime. A bit of tennis here, a bit of golf there. Soccer with what would have been the kids, et cetera et cetera. If only he actually did have a family just yet.

Leaning forward, he spotted one report which had been marked in particular -- just of interest, nothing too relevant.

"So, the Freeks are at it again..." he pondered out loud, still alone. "I see they havent changed their old habits."

Punching in the relevant code, he made his orders rather clear.

"Watch this one would you Penn," he noted through what he had of a communication device. "Given more recent circumstances, I think we will find this one interesting, at best."

OOC: Somewhat of a TAG and a commitment..
IC: Monasdent(Monarch/President) Josef A Heller sat in his office in Illian overlooking the week's intelligence reports. What was on them was the usual boring intel weenie crap, drug smuggling, one politician screwing another's wife( no details unluckily), the usual update from his personal spy in the Illiorian underground, and the merger between H-F and several other companies.

Without warning his door burst open.
"Mr. Heller," Hector Kalenth, the Monasdent's personal chief of staff said in a rushed, worried, and excited tone, " One of our most ancient allies has declared war!"

"What?" Heller said as he stood up thinking to himself who is it now? hopefully not New Empire again, last time we tried to help, we lost a whole division due to the damned weather! "Who is it this time?"

"Automagfreek sir, we've been allied to them since before Damien, you must remember sir, they greeted us warmly into the APTO."

"Of course I remember, well, get a battalion (1100) of the Jaco's up and runnin," He said, slightly exasperated. I want them under Freekian control as soon as possible, along with the battle group Halenath."

"Right away sir, I'll inform the MOD, MOS, and JCS sir," Hector said as he was leaving

"Yes, yes do all that, and tell them to be here in three hours." Heller said thinking to himself I need a rest.

He went over to his personal wet bar and poured himself a scotch. pondering, what his next move would be. He got up and pressed a button, on his desk and dictated a statement to his secretary and within the hour this message went out to Damien Dreadfire Himself.

***********DATA LINK ENCRYPTION TANGO********************
TO: DAMIEN DREADFIRE
FROM: JOSEF A HELLER
Damien,
Whether you remember me or not, I am Josef Heller, Monasdent of Illior. I have been around longer than you surprisngly, thanks to odd genetics. I owe a lot to Automagfreek whether you know it or not... It was your country that we grew with as our alliess and welcomed us into the APTO quite warmly, but that was your previous government. since then, much has happened and we have grown apart except through NATO. I once again wish to have our country's soldiers fight side by side once again, Sentinel and Jaco, slaughtering our enemies, whomever they be, whether it was Melkor, or Markov, we were beside you. For your purpose, eleven hundred Jacos( Illior's most elite, on top of the Hell jumpers and Satan's spawn) and a battle group have been place under your control for whatever purpose you need.

Sincerely yours, May our Enemy's blood turn their land and rivers red,
~ Josef A Heller, Monasdent of illior

Ten Miles Off Cariyan Islands

RSS Invincible, pride of the Grand Republican Navy, smashed through the water that surrounded her, causing huge waves to rise up and smash against her hull, as if in a futile gesture of defiance against her almighty power. The Carrier plowed on through the waves, ignoring them as a whale might ignore a cod; on the bridge of the Invincible, Rear-Admiral Francis Tucker, Commander of the Combined Fleets Taskforce, sipped at a cup of scalding hot coffee, drenched in cream as was to his liking, and felt the hot liquid run through his body, warming him again.

The weather really was atrocious outside, Tucker observed as he contentedly sipped at the mug; even in a slicker and thick jacket, he had been drenched to the bone as he had gone outside to observe the rest of the fleet, and only now, with the aid of the coffee, was he warming up and could feel his extremities again. He finally placed the cup down, reluctant to abandon its warmth, and walked over to the Virtual Combat Display in the middle of the bridge; the huge, three-dimensional display showed the position of the rest of the three fleets, the hundreds of vessels that had finally arrived at the Cariya Islands to support the Hogsweatians already there.

In the middle of the display was the Invincible itself, and arrayed around it were hundreds of other vessels; nearby were more than a dozen Cruisers and Battleships, and the one Super-Dreadnought that the Grand Republican Navy posessed, a sign of how important this task was deemed to be. The fleets were seperated into three formation, staggered several miles apart to avoid casualties if misiles were used, but in between the central Carriers moved the smaller Destroyers and Frigates, and there, out at the Frigates positioned to give warning of any attack.

Tucker envied those men; they were the point of the great spear that was the Joint Taskforce, and they would be the first to fight; they would also be the first to die, something Tucker found distasteful but ultimately neccessary. He frowned, and turned back to the board. Perhaps nothing would come of this; perhaps that massive AMF fleet would sail back to port and be done with this matter. But somehow Tucker knew that wouldn't be; there was something in the air that said something to him.

So, with deep misgivings, Tucker gave the order for the Taskforce to halt and deploy Carrier Air Patrols and extend the Picket to ten miles to give ample warning of any attack; an attack Tucker believed could come at any time...

The single port of Sigma Octavus was in chaos. Soldiers rushed by the hundreds to their designated transport ships, while cargo carriers loaded up the various warships and support craft.

Dwarfing most of the ships in the harbor, a highly modified Doujin sat off the coast, having most of it's crew and equipment airlifted aboard. The already impressive craft had been modified with more armor, making it substantially tougher. It's deck guns had been replaced with

The three remaining Horseman class aircraft carriers were already loaded. The fourth, War had been sunk by Artistan missiles in the last war in which the SON had participated in. The Famine, Pestilence and Death were the only carriers in use by the SON.

Only one of the End class dreadnaughts was still in comission, two having been sunk in the harbor to create defense platforms and a third having been scrapped. The remaining, named the Gehenna was much more powerful than it had previously been. It's 3 30" deck guns had been replaced with 42" guns and it's hull armor had been increased and enhanced. It would take successive torpedos to blow a whole in it's side.

Dozens of battleships, destroyers and various other warships were being outfitted and crewed, some of them dating as far back as the NATO/North Korean conflict of years past.

Every transport available was being loaded with troops, armor and supplies. They were prepared for an extended conflict if needed.

It would take roughly three days for everything to be set to go. Each soldier hoped that the war wouldn't be over before they got there.

Admiral Hughes looked out the window on the bridge on the JGFS Cutlass, he couldn't help but feel nervous. The Commonwealth was literally moments away from declaring war on Automagfreek and her allies. While Jagada was indeed a vast nation to be feared in times of war, nearly every pint-sized dictator or two-bit single party state, and even a few corrupt democracies rushed into Automagfreek's camp and have declared their support out of fear of Damien the Corrupt. In order to stop Damien, Jagada would need to knock her allies out of the war and thus make Automagfreek fight against multiple Allied states at once. The first enemy to knock out would be The Nationalist Federal Republic of Aequatio, whom were sending their 'Republic Fleet' to aid Automagfreek. Jagada's fleets had attempted their best to move secretly, and used satelliates to map out the Republic Fleet as best as possible. While Hughes was hopeful that the Grand Fleet wasn't seen by the Republic Fleet, he figured that they had some idea of where he was. The Religious Commonwealth hadn't declared war yet, Norris wanted a surprise attack on at least Aequatio to knock her out of the war for at least two years, hopefully.

The Grand Fleet was comprised mostly of Macabee and Sarzonian design, so Hughes was confident these ships could stand up against whatever Aequatio's Republic Fleet could dish out. Not to mention a little suprise gained from Macabee as well, the Macabee designed Anti-Dreadnaught Sledgehammer Missile. One hundred had been bought many years ago and had been upkept for such a war as this. These missiles alone would turn the tide of the Jagadian-Aequtio conflict. It would easily allow Hughes to gain a few serious advantages he needed.

After moving closer and close to the enemy fleet, he was now within range to use his missiles and send in his aircraft. The attack against Aequatio was going to be a pre-emptive strike, one without a declaration of war first. It was going to be Jagada's only way to knock them out of the war, or at least seriously delay their entry.

"We are in range correct?" asked Hughes.

"Yes sir," replied one of the technicians.

"Inform the entire fleet to fire all Sledgehammer and minor missiles. Their targets are enemy carriers and dreadnaughts. While the missiles are being fired, have the aircraft begin launching. I want us to focus on taking out aircraft carriers," said Hughes dryly.

With those orders, a flurry of heavily encrypted messages went between ships and all of the sudden it silenced as everyone knew their orders. A moment later the sounds of dozens of missiles being fired could be heard. And this sound continued, and soon was accompanied by the sound of jet engines as fighters took off. All in all aroudn 375 aircraft were being used in this pre-emptive strike.


{OOC: Aequatio, I assumed that in your last message you'd already sent your Republic Fleet out to meet Automagfreek. So this is simply saying that once you got out of range of land-based aircraft support I launched a sudden and all out assault on your fleet in an attempt to crippled it.}

OOC: Never assume, it makes an "ass" out of "u" and "me."

I have yet to organize my fleet numbers, let alone mobilize them to Automagfreek waters. You'll have to give me some time or attack someone else in the mean time.

{OOC: Ah ok...just forget that post above then. Lol.}

{bump}

President Mike Sarzo was staring vacantly ahead as he was enjoying his vacation at the Presidential cabin in Saugerties. The time away from the Gray House was very good to him and he was enjoying a quiet moment with First Partner Jay Tyler.

That is, until his cell phone began a piercing squeal.

"Wonder what the devil's going on?" Sarzo picked up the phone wondering if the stock market was crashing or there was a forest fire somewhere in the countryside.

"Sarzo." The president gave a start when he realised it was Vice President for Defence John Newman on the other end of the phone.

"Yes, I'm aware that Automagfreek has mobilised its military. They what? I'll be right there."

Sarzo got up and hastily dressed in his suit. He was going to entertain the Isselmerian-Nielander ambassador to Sarzonia for a quiet night of dinner and a brief chat over the state of UKIN-Sarzonian relations, but that was going to have to wait. Sarzonia's other top ally, Praetonia, was facing down the barrel of a mobilisation by one of the world's most fearsome powers.

Thanks to a high speed flight by the Presidential helicopter, Sarzo strode into the Gray House situation room twenty minutes later.

"What do you have?"

Newman stood up and played a DVR with his voiceover of satellite imagery and statements by the Freek and Praetonian governments.

"All right, situation?"

"We have very few forces deployed there. Just a Leander and her escort group. We can get the Sixth Fleet out there, but it will take us a few days," Vice President for Naval Operations Kathy Bunhall said.

"A few days may be too late to save the islands," Army Chief Antonius Santius said. "And our armies are barely in shape to fight a war after the Inkana debacle."

"Well, we're just going to have to accelerate things just a bit if we're going to get involved," Newman said.

"What's the status of the DontPissUsOff," Sarzo said.

"Standard deployment. They can be near the islands within two weeks."

"Scratch the islands," Sarzo said, with a look of anger suddenly clouding his face. "We're going to deploy directly to the source of the trouble."

"What do you mean," Newman asked.

"Tell the DontPissUsOff and her escort fleet to divert course and head toward Freek waters. If they make a wrong move, we need to be ready to strike."

"Sir, that's going to provoke a war with," Bunhall said, before Sarzo cut her off.

"I'm well aware of that Madame Vice President," Sarzo said in a clipped tone as a vein started appearing on his forehead and his face began to turn red. "The world needs to learn that Sarzonia doesn't stand for the intimidation of her allies, no matter what."

"Supreme Star Fleet Admiral of the Red. Sounds a tad..over the top, don't you think?"

George Brydges Rodney suggested to the navs ensign who was sitting next to him in the complex yet comfortable bridge of the Superdreadnought FDN Warspite. He had been recently promoted to lead the Warspite, the Free Democratic Navy's largest vessel (at 1050 metres) into battle, should the need arise. Parliament had voted not to raise Defcon level to primary - nobody thought that Automagfreek would actually attack anyone. There were far too many nations against him. However, as more and more drafted to the side of Damien, the Government of Hogsweat grew more and more worried. Eventually, they dispatched three Battle Task Forces to complement the two Carrier Task Forces in the Cariya Islands area. It was a huge force buildup as each Battle Task Force consisted of over a hundred ships: All centred around the three Superdreadnoughts Warspite, Wellington, and Westland. In addition, the Fleet carriers Hogsingrad, Hammersea, Byvane, Belsfar, Alsefenn, Yor'en, and Tublane were sailing with the fleet that day.

"Yes, it does sir..although, it does sound very majestic too"
The Ensign added as he steered the Superdreadnought three degrees to the west.

"Coming into range of Cariya islands sir, approaching twenty kilometres and lowering at twenty five knots. Cariya bears approximately eighteen degrees port of our bow sir."

"Excellent. Bring us down to twenty two knots, and slow to five knots when we're five kilometres off the Islands."

"Will do sir"

The fleet of about three hundred ships followed their battle orders, so to speak, as they slowed down considerably alongside the two carrier groups, now making the total to be some four hundred ships, the huge Hogsweatian complement a result of millions of dollars of work and alot of paperwork.

Admiral Sir Geoffrey Simnett was sitting in his office leaning back on his chair and thinking about what colour to repaint his old and cracked office ceiling. He eventually decided that he really should get back to work, being Minister for Defence he reasoned that he ought to at least look like he was working. Giving an audible sigh he rocked his black, leather chair back into it’s normal, upright, position and grabbed the topmost sheet of paper in his inbox. It was a procurement report from the Royal Navy office downstairs in regards to orders from the Portland Ironworks in Sarzonia, requesting authorisation for further purchases. The King had recently sanctioned a budget increase for the military and Admiral Simnett had always favoured the Navy for expansion so he got out his “official” stamp, with the Lesser Ribenan coat of arms emblazoned on it, thumped it down onto the ink pad and again onto the top of the paper. He then marked the report to be sent to the accounting department and stuffed it into his overflowing outbox.

He casually reached over for the next item in the inbox, it was then that the red telephone rang, he answered it at once.

“Admiral Simnett speaking” he responded.

“Ah Sir, I just got a report in from the Foreign Office” It was Brigadier Graves from the Intelligence Department. “I think you should review it immediately sir”

“OK Graves, will do. Send it up at once.”

A short while later there was a knock at his door. Simnett shouted for the messenger to enter and he opened the large, Oak doors and handed the Admiral a large elastic band bound report. It was entitled Intelligence Report on the Automagfreek Situation. Simnett sighed, the nation of Automagfreek was up to it’s old tricks again. He opened the report and perused the contents.

It read:

It is believed that on 22nd of August the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek initialised a massive build up of military forces, satellite photographs have been taken of the area and are attached for clarity in appendix I. It is believed by our nation’s Military Intelligence Service that such a build up can only mean preparation for war. Our regional neighbours, Sarzonia, whilst remaining diplomatically tight-lipped about the situation have clearly embarked upon some sort of military endeavour with a large portion of her fleet breaking off usual patrols and heading towards Automagfreek territory. Whilst this may only be a training exercise or some other such occasion it is believed (with at least 94% confidence) that such a move can only be made in response to some sort of threat or other announcement by Automagfreek. It is also believed that Praetonia is involved in this affair as well.


In response to this situation we advise that the military is placed on high alert and is ready to respond to the situation as it develops and to support our Sarzonian friends. The exact deployments have been left to you to decide.


END OF REPORT

Admiral Simnett considered the situation for a short time before springing into action. He handed the report back to the attache who had brought it and told him to make sure that the King saw it and to inform him that he was working on a strategy.

He picked up the phone and rang Admiral of the Fleet Charles Anson, who was out on Naval manoeuvres somewhere in international waters.

“Anson, this is Simnett. We have a situation on our hands. Automagfreek has moved against Praetonia and Sarzonia and it is my intention to support our Sarzonian friends in this campaign. I want you to mobilize the First and Second fleets immediately and take them along with your flagship, HMS Revenant, to just outside the new Freekian waters. Do not attack as yet but keep me informed as the situation develops.”

“Yes, Sir!” came the reply

“Oh, and make sure your somewhere near the Sarzonian fleets, we can’t come to much harm then eh?”

“Yes, Sir” Anson replied as he hung up the phone.

Simnett then sent similar messages to the Air and Army Chiefs and began drafting legislation to mobilize the Territorial Army and the local militias so that the army could be free to operate internationally.

Finally he gave orders that the Third (Home Service) Fleet, fourth (Reserve) Fleet and teh Ninth (Littoral) Fleet were to return to home waters and defend Lesser Ribena, whilst he sent messages to detachments of the Fourth and Fifth (Submarine) Fleets to support the taskforce deployment. Elements of the Seventh (Support) and Eighth (Logistics) fleets were to act in support of the taskforce abroad and ferry supplies to them under escort from the Home Service Fleet.

“At last” The Admiral thought “We’ll see how good our military finally is”

So this is it, eh? Commodore Tirazov mused to himself. Several months ago the 2nd Fleet had returned to home port, its three Super-Dreadnoughts had to be refit. And then, the world had to go and get itself into an international crisis involving some of the largest nations on earth.

The Naval Command had pulled Tirazov off duty of his Grey-Storm, which had been in the middle of the Atlantic, and brought him home. He had been informed that he would now be heading up the Sovereign Artitsan Grand Fleet; The Commodore prefered its other name, the Grand Task Force. Soon the 12th and 14th Sovietzky Fleets would be arriving to complete the task force. Tirazov imagined it now. He would have 7 Super Dreadnoughts in his control, and 56 Battleships. He wasn't even prepared to count the number of Carriers, cruisers, destroyers, and smaller ships. It could have been a logistical nightmare, but the Command and Control abilities of the Super-Dreadnoughts relieved alot of the pressures.

If he remembered correctly the 7th fleet was mobilizing as well... this was huge.

THE TERRITORY OF HOLY PANOOLY
An official government statement

"Despite of the enduring difficulties in nothern and southern Holy Panooly, the warlords and masters of the regions have decided to bring about an armstice to unite and ally Holy Panooly with the armies of Gholgoth and to defeat the armies of Haven. We still have a small grudge against a few nations of this coalition of good and nice nations. So now we can define who's wrong and right. But who is allowed to pick wrong or right? There is no wrong or right here, you will have to learn it the hard way. We have decided to fully mobilize all Panoolian forces on the Panoolian continent and abroad in Theohuanacu and we are prepared for the worst - or the best."

- Lord Rampone & Baron Dominic Templeton, Leaders of The Territory Holy Panooly

Everywhere in Holy Panooly logistical ships were seized to begin transporting troops to start sending troops to the nation of Aequatio. Doomingsland has paid Holy Panooly well in gold and the most modern, futuristic weaponry, so the (small) Panooly fleet, consisting of barges and vessels bought from the ancient motherland of Guffingford, were in pretty good shape. Former pirate captains, notorious ones including Bloomsburry and Munroe, and many others were assigned to command and steer the ships to said nation, and wait for instructions over there. Panoolian soldiers may lack in training, experience and the will power to press on are unmatched. They will be a valuable addition to the attacking forces of Automagfreek and his allies.

Secure Communiqué to the Aequation Administration

You may have heard, but in case you haven't, the Territory of Holy Panooly has announced to be fully willing to co-operate with Automagfreek and its allies. Since your nation has always been the closest ally to Automagfreek in his long history, we have decided to send parts of our mostly infantry army to your nation as a staging area. In return, we will ship 2 billion barrels of oil to your nation, at a port of your choice. I think this will be a precious addition to the war engine, in case you might be blocked hy hostile naval forces. You never know.

Communiqué closed.

OOC: Consider this an extremely glorified 'Bump'; I got bored not writing anything.

IC:

Cariya Island Taskforce

The Grand Republican Fleet had by now spread itself out across several square miles of sea and had come to a stop as Admiral Tucker and his staff awaited the enemy forces to make the next move in what was rapidly developing into a detailed and complex chess game, each side moving and counter-moving, trying to anticipate the others moves.

Tucker raised his binoculars and looked at a small naval vessels several miles away'; although the image was slightly blurry from the artifically magnified distance, and a thin mist was blowing near the islands, Tucker could make out the flag of Hogsweat; the Free Democratic Navy, or whatever it was calling itself these days. It was a comforting sight indeed to have his old allies so close at hand, and in such large numbers; the three Hogsweatian fleets dwarfed his command by several factors.

Tucker wiped the edge of the bincoulars and put them down, turning instead to the Virtual Combat Display, which now displayed every single allied vessel in the area; there were now thousands of them, interweaving and constantly moving about; a veritable armarda indeed. A sudden screech of engines caught his attention and he looked out of the plexiglass window next to him to see four FA/18 fighters scream off of the flightdeck and move effortlessly through the dark skies, water steaming off of their wings as their engines superheated and boiled the rainwater.

Those four fighters were but a fraction of the number of aircraft in the air around the allied fleets, many of which were Republican in origin. So much firepower, observed Tucker; so much firepower...and the potential for so much death...

OOC: I posted my declaration in the OOC thread; hopefully my post here is considered OK, and if it isn't, I'll delete it.

IC:

Encrypted Transmission to the Office of the Imperator of Praetonia

To: His Majesty Sarius Publius I of the Democratic Imperium of Praetonia
From: President Kir Kanos of the Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia
Re: Automagfreek Conflict

The eruption of hostilities between your fine nation and the nation of Automagfreek has recently been brought to my attention. It would appear that the conflict that some predicted has finally come into being. But I will not further waste your time with the obvious.

There are few nations in this world who do not fear the power of Damien Dreadfire and the nation he commands. I personally believe those nations to be full of fools. As the old adage says, "Courage is not the lack of fear, but rather the ability to act in spite of it." Our nations have never cooperated on a scale larger than our purchases of naval vessels from the Imperial Praetonian Shipyards. However, I personally feel close to your country, and we have always regarded you as friends. A world with a Automagfreek-occupied Praetonia is not a world I wish to see come to pass, and I will do all that I can to help prevent this outcome. Know that you have the complete support of the Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia. Together, we will see these terrible times through, and lead ourselves to victory.

Respectfully,
Kir Kanos
President and Commander-in-Chief
The Democratic Imperium of Halberdgardia

End Encrypted Transmission

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

Across Halberdgardia, military installations geared into overdrive like never before. Any satellite imagery taken of the country would undoubtedly show the mobilization, but care was taken to not undertake a total mobilization of all military forces, so that any spying country would only assume that Halberdgardia was off to fight terrorists threatening them again. When Halberdgardia's true intentions became known, a more comprehensive mobilization would be undertaken. As it stood, however, a large fleet of Praetonian-made vessels, surface combatants and submarines alike, were mobilized. All six of Halberdgardia's superdreadnaughts were prepared for deployment. Though the Halberdgardians would not be facing the Freeks themselves, it would nonetheless be a battle of titanic proportions.

[OOC: Yes, I've done the same as Halberdgardia, posting my intent to join a small theater war agiinst Illior. If this is a premature post, I can remove it.]

“Sir, the contractual and moral obligation to our fellow Pact members is just as strong as our obligation to the United Kingdom.” The voice was urgent, filling the dimmed room with its intensity. Within, Prime Minister Milos Borovic sat, hands cupped, supporting the weight of his head. He had survived one war already, a war he did not want or begin, and now the threat of being dragged into another filled him with dread. In his heart, he knew that this foreign advisor was right; for their continued support and past military aid, he and his country – colony, he reminded himself – owed the Sarzonians a great debt.

“- We must act. If we violate the agreement set forth in the Woodstock charter, it will further isolate us from the international community. Need I remind you what your predecessor did, the atrocities she committed? This Pact is our inlet to greater world respect as an upright nation. This could bring about our redemption in the eyes of the world!” Just as urgent as before, the intercom again crackled with the desperate pleas of a man Milos knew felt just a deeply for his nation as he did.

He pressed down the intercom, holding the button labeled ‘Speak.’ “Yes, you are right, we could be redeemed as you put it by the actions of this Pact; but we could also be destroyed by it. You remember how narrowly we escaped from that end before; how can I be sure it won’t come to that again? The Azazians have granted us some self-rule at least; they support us monetarily and politically. What if that were to change? What if we fell under the hands of a Freek occupier? We would be left with nothing.” As he spoke, he took short pauses, collecting his thoughts. His voice was calm.

“We ought take political avenues which afford us the greatest degree of protection. If we are to be involved, we ought be fired upon first; we can not be regarded as an aggressor.”

“What options do I have then? The Kingdom will not become embroiled in a war such as this.” The Prime Minister’s voice remained calm; he was exploring his alternatives, having already made his decision.

“We begin an aggressive deployment. Send out our submarine tender with an escort; begin operating our vessels near the Freek’s allies, begin to stalk their ships. We may use the Pact’s planned wargames as justification. Send out what we can spare from the fleet, and begin running air patrols as far out as possible using the Bedric Airfield. We can instigate a war rather innocently, and remove ourselves form it with similar ease.”

With a sigh, Borovic ended the conference. “Very well. Alert the military that we will begin preparations for wargames, mobilize our airborne, and somebody inform the Minister of Defense of what was said here.” The intercom then went dead with a click.

-----

Within the day, a suitable fleet had been gathered for the planned operation and Novikov’s two submarine tenders we already out to sea, with a frigate and corvettes leading in escort fashion. Furthermore, the Air Force Command had been notified, and the old outpost at Bedric Harbor was scheduled for reactivation as a forward airbase, with some thirty aircraft from four squadrons scheduled to deploy to the island within twenty-four hours of its reactivation, scheduled for the following night.

Prime Minister Borovic was hesitant about what was to soon transpire, but he has signed for the release of the units Novikovian High Command had appropriated to the operation, each one being sent through the Prime Minister’s office before moving on, through Representative Heartman to the Azazian governor. He had not objected as much as had been expected, knowing that the Novikovian military would have to soon take over the policing of their nation and would likely need all the training possible if they were to ever end the occupation– an occupation which, even a year after the end of hostilities was responsible for a large part of Novikov’s defense and policing.

Thus, under these assumption, a quickly drawn-up operation was set into motion, the said goal of which was to set Novikov on a collision course with the allies of AMF. For this, Minister Borovi felt especially guilty for. He fancied himself as the polar opposite of his earlier Prime Minister, but now found himself taking the same tactics as she had in the hope of bringing Novikov into yet another conflict. If this ever got out, he thought, his obligation to WP nations may not be enough to save him from the next year’s angry populace. Regardless of the political suicide he may be taking, however, Borovic was determined to right the wrongs of old and preserve the sovereignty of his allied states as he had sworn to do the day of his surrender just a year earlier. If war was the cost of such action, he would risk war, no matter how much he resented it.

As was the usual affair with the rapid preparations of war, the docks and ports around Kriegorgrad were ablaze with activity, a whirlwind of activity that sucked in anyone wishing to remain neutral while Proletarian Guardsmen visited homes, to escort “volunteers” to get armed and equipped before forming them into regiments, then, finally shoving them board a transport and sending them off to whatever godforsaken place the oligarchs had picked this time. More often than not, these wars were simply waged for the sake of blood and used ammo - misery and conflict were one of the keystones that kept the Collective Oligarchy’s rigid hierarchy and system functioning. Kriegorgrad was truly a nation built on cold and logical fear, paranoia and hate and thus it was geared towards acts of fear, paranoia and hate. The massive military presence in Kriegorgrad seemed to have tripled with the promise of a Praetonian-AMF conflict on the horizon, Praetonia, one of Kriegorgrad’s favoured allies and a key player in keeping Haven safe from foreign influences, was being advanced upon by the reputable freeks of the Excessively Armed Empire, despite its namesake, Kriegorgrad no doubt had three times as many firearms as the Empire, although many of those would be antiquated.

However, the main target on the oligarchs’ agenda was not the Freeks but rather Crimmond, if things went as planned, the self-styled European Superpower would come under furious, if ungraceful attack from the Kriegos military. The predicted Proletarian Guardsmen death toll towered into the millions. Such a war would drain Kriegorgrad – exactly what the hierarchs who ruled the southern Havenic beast wanted. If Kriegorgrad was crippled, they’d have no need for war as the populace would be busy rebuilding, a temporary solution but a solution nonetheless. The tromp of shoes clapping on cheap concrete, the echoes rebounding off the looming ugly structures that passed for apartments in the cities drowned out by the roar of approval from the mouths of the state, using the populace as puppets. The marionettes cried out for blood, their words belonging to the oligarchs. The streamers and confetti falling about the soldiers was all just a show to hide the empty husks that were the people cheering, much of their personality replaced by the monotonous love of their country and blind support of whatever the government chose to do.

The “official” regiments began to load onto the ships, those who volunteered due to the guilt inducing posters that covered the walls of the cities or the hate provoking speeches of the Comrade Leader on the numerous telescreens around the cities. The Comrade Leader had long since stopped appearing in public, whether he’d aged or his health had failed, very few knew due to the veil of secrecy the government shrouded Fedorenkov’s true state in. Already, as they boarded the ships that lay docked in the harbours, the shadows of doubt filled the soldiers’ minds, fear of the bloody conflict ahead – all the cheering and encouragement the civilians gave, it couldn’t shake off the unbreakable sense of unease that came when one acknowledged their mortality. Of course, such things weren’t a matter to the oligarchs, safely concealed in the white pyramid that was the ministry of love, the single triangular prism of order in the dirty city of Fedorgrad.

-----

The oligarchs were bickering again, it was inevitable, whenever they collectively agreed on something, they had to argue like children with extra passion the next time they met to make up for it. It truly amused the Ordos Fedor who guarded their doors, while willing to fight and die for them, the elite guards couldn’t help at chuckle at the things their masters came out with. The oligarchs, however, didn’t find their squabbles nearly as amusing, they got quite engrossed and more than once, the group had ended up acting like proletarian roughs – hardly the epitome of noble leadership that the oligarchs were supposed to embody, thankfully though, the childish name calling and insults was drawing to a close but it didn’t change the fact that one would find it hard to believe that these men were the same who masterminded the frighteningly efficient Kriegos structure.

“I tell you, we send a communiqué to the world, displaying our support for Praetonia!” The distinct snapping voice was that Mustapha, his pale and weedy frame looked very unimpressive next to his opponent’s muscle body and tanned features, Henry Foster had resumed their political squabbling as soon as the meeting started, making up for the cooperation they displayed last time they met.

”Fine, fine, send the bloody transmission, but you’ll be accountable when we lose entire regiments because the enemy in the first opening moments because we let the enemy get prepared!” Mustapha just smiled, though he realized his course of action was the stupid one compared to Henry’s, he couldn’t bear to actually yield to Henry’s logic – a victory was a victory and Mustapha savoured this moment, he had the other oligarchs on his side for once.

“Well, let us prepare our message.”

One could only hope reasoning got the better of Mustapha. Thankfully it did – after the entire council voted against Mustapha after a furious rebuttal from Henry.



{::Establishing Uplink::}
{::Encrypting::}
{::Secure Channel Procured::}

Type of Communiqué: Military
To: Democratic Imperium of Praetonia
From: The Oligarch of Kriegorgrad, Comrade Leader Nikolai Fedorenkov
Subject: Intelligence?

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

”It is in our best interests that Kriegos and Praetonian intelligence agencies share our information, it is obvious that a war is brewing and when it erupts into violence, we’d like to be able to count on your satellite systems being able to work in tandem with our own in order to ensure our men maximum assistance on the ground. Also, you need not worry of the nation known as Crimmond, Kriegorgrad has more than enough man power to, if not defeat, delay the effective entry of the European state into the conflict until Coalition forces have pacified the other targets. If you accept our offer of shared intelligence, I propose we start keeping each other in the loop ASAP.

You have heard me, but the time for talk, politics and diplomacy is over – the time for action is at hand and believe me that when that moment comes, the arrogant European Superpower shall find the latter half of its pretentious title impotent.“

Yours Sincerely,


The Oligarch of Kriegorgrad, Comrade Leader Nikolai Fedorenkov



{::Closing Uplink::}

OOC: Roughly explaining my defense.
****************

The AMF ships suddenly broke formation and started steaming back towards Gholgothan waters at nearly 1:30 in the morning. Thier orders were to return to the AMF-Panteran straight, a death trap of coastal artillery on two sides and a near impenetrable defensive point. This meant that there was now no fleet standing in the way of the AMF mainland, just 250nm of open sea. It was as if Damien was daring his foes to land on his shores.

The tribes of the south had begun coordinating their defensive measures with AMF High Command, and between both parties things were moving slowly. First the enemy would be subjected to underground super-cannon fire at 80 miles out, followed by missile fire shortly thereafter. Nearly 30 miles of underwater 'Crawler' mine deposits then lay ahead of them, followed by a vast net of Supremacy class submarines that had been ordered to sit idly on the ocean floor. To the naked eye the seas were open, and to SONAR the floor was clean, devoid of any obvious signs of life. Automagfreek's world famous net of anti-air defenses would be on 24/7 high alert, scanning the skies with radar and real-time satellite imagery. Mobile units stood by to be deployed accordingly, and stationary batteries received additional munitions by the truck load.

The beaches had been sprayed with hundreds of thousands of scatterable land mines the size of sugar packets, painted to match the color of the sands. Over the course of the next few days sand would blow over the mines and disguise them even more. While not big enough to cause a fatal blow, the mines were small enough to blow off toes or a large part of a foot....maiming was their game. Mobile units stood by with thousands of larger plastic land mines, prepared to move out at a moments notice under cover of night to lay them in the decided path of the enemy.

Mobile artillery units had dug hundreds of firing pits all around the beaches of Automagfreek, digging them near trees and other vegetation to hide thier position from enemy satellites. 60mm mortars would be the closest to the action, followed by self propelled howitzers. The larger artillery units would station themselves in the rear with a score of mortar crews in case the enemy advanced too far inland.

Nearly 75,000 Tribal Freeks would be charged with the task of holding off the inevitable landing, kept company by nearly 100,000 Sentinels. They would then dig into hidden firing positions with their armor and wait once it was clear where the heathens would be landing. Automagfreek had never been more ready for fools to rush to its shores.

As the ships made their retreat they left a parting gift with the Cariya Islands: 15 minutes of sustained SD fire from the Sentinel and Reaver. 25 inch guns sounded off into the night as the Freeks withdrew from the area. The war it seems, was on.

The Republic House
22 Warriner Avenue
Daiel, Coburn
9:50 a.m. local time

Speaker Michael MacFarlane, who seconds ago had been dozing peacefully at his desk, awoke with a start as Tara Grayson, Secretary of Health and Education, burst through the double doors of his office. "You." She pointed at the bewildered Speaker. "Situation Room. Now."

"Tara, I thought you'd never ask," MacFarlane quipped, rising a little unsteadily, taking extra care not to trip over his own feet as he got up.

"Mike, shut the hell up. I am not f-cking around here." His vision finally clearing, the Speaker could see now that Grayson was extremely agitated, and he knew she only got like that when she was scared of something.

"Alright, alright. I'm ready." He followed her out of the office and down the hall. "What's going on, Tara? And now that I think of it, why did you get sent for me instead of Eric?" Eric Cheslock, the MacFarlane's chief of staff, was supposed to be the one to notify him of emergency cabinet meetings like this one.

"I got sent because I can run faster than he can. I told him to get the hell on down. As for what's going on..." She hesitated. "Kane will have to give you the details, but the basic premise is this: That bastard Damien Dreadfire has decided to come play in our f-cking backyard."

---

Ten minutes later, in the Republic House Situation Room, the details had come into focus for the Speaker. A large Automagfreek and allied fleet destined for points unknown. Intelligence chatter, virtually all of it claiming the fleet was headed for Haven. Potential targets named included Hogsweat, Riah, and even Barentsburg, but the majority of the information indicated an impending attack on Praetonia.

"My appraisal of the situation is this," MacFarlane finally said. "We are not allied with Praetonia or any of the other potential targets, but I think it's obvious to everyone at this table that we'll be looking at a massive humanitarian and environmental crisis in Haven if this isn't stopped. We need to start gearing up to contain this thing, but quietly. Andrew, who's up in the fleet rotation now?"

"Sixth Fleet," defense secretary Andrew Kane answered without hesitation. "Aaron Pierce's boys."

MacFarlane nodded. That was fortunate, as the Sixth Fleet was by far the most battle-tested in the Copiosa Scotian navy. "Right. I want them out at sea by midnight. Call up all personnel for the First and Third Fleets, and they'll need to be on 24-hour deployment alert by midnight. Same drill with the First Army. Bring StratDefCom up to full alert status, and get the Coast Guard to sweep the Cali Gulf clean of submarines. Then call in the Joint Chiefs and put together a strategy for dealing with this." He took a deep breath. "That about covers it. Everybody get back to work."

"The enemy gives fire, sir," reported an officer aboard the bridge of the Achilles, a fleet carrier at the head of Praetonian forces surrounding the island. There were two full carrier battlegroups and three squadrons of submarines, as well as three battalions of paratroops on the beach.

Admiral Horadrius Fletcher extended his telescope and look out towards the island which itself bristled with guns. "Good god," he muttered under his breath, seeing massive clouds of dust exploding from the island, Hogsweatian soldiers - mere specks in the distance - being thrown up into the air before disappearing into the cloud of debris.

"The fleet shall return fire!" He ordered, "Have the submarine squadrons break station and fire at will!" An echo of 'Yes sirs' filled the bridge. Aboard the other ships the missiles were being asigned their targets and guns trained. The Omega Class Battleships that accomapnied the fleets had 20" guns - not up to the standard of a superdreadnaught, but mighty in their own right - and these trained on the enemy, their burnished barrels glinting in the morning sun.

Admiral Fletcher did not know if his force would survive this day. They were outnumbered and outgunned, but he doubted the Automagfreekans wanted to spend a great deal of time here. At the very least he could delay them from their intended goal - Hogsweat was appearing the most likely - which as a straight journey would be months of travelling, if not a year or more.

Aboard his own ship, aircraft were being lifted up on deck and prepared for launch, as they were on the second of the fleet's large carriers. Helicopters launched immegiately to help direct the fleet's artillery fire and to detect and help engage enemy missile and large bore shell fire. The sight was that of a fleet of the Imperial Praetonian Navy - and it was dont in utmost silence and with the utmost efficient - efficiency honed to perfection by years of training and practice. The Admiral took his fleet intercom, and addressed the entire fleet at once:

"Guardians of Praetonia. Servicemen and women of the Imperial Navy. For the first time in the history of our service, we are to meet a powerful adversary in combat. The reputation of those we face is one of power and fear. The reputation of those we face is one of brutality and barbarism. It is not known what they seek to do - but their actions in recent minutes has made clear that they seek the destruction of Praetonia or her allies.

"We are the first line of defence against the barbarian horde. The Navy is at home making ready to put to sea. The army is scrambling to its positions along the coast - but not one of them will see battle before we do. The eyes of the Imperium are upon us, and I ask of each of you nothing more than to do your duty calmly, quietly and with all the good grace of a Praetonian serviceman at war.

"More importantly, we have access to some of the most powerful vessels in the world. The PWS Triumphant and her battle group are a mere 18 hours away. The eyes of the world are upon us. Let us not disgrace the good name of the Praetonian Navy by running like cowards, or by quietly going down to the guns of the Automagfreek navy. If we are to go down this day, then we shall go down fighting and fighting for our brothers in arms across the world!"

The ships of the fleet erupted in cheers. Even the officers joined in, but they quickly stifled the celebrations so that the fleet could resume its business of preparing for battle. The Freek guns were still firing, the Hogsweatians were still dying and the explosions were still raging, but suddenly they were drowned out by the sound of a thousand missiles rushing from their siloes, a hundred guns erupting with fire and even more aircraft shooting into the air to circle over the fleet.

[OOC: The missiles fired are most Lance SSMs which can penetrate the armour of an escort and an impact or two sink one. Against a battleship they will cause heavy but localised damaged and probably wont sink one. Other missiles are larger and designed to attack the decks of carriers, or superdreadnaughts. They will probably penetrate the armour and do heavy but localised damage. A hit to a carrier deck would need a few hours to repair if your crews have practiced it a lot and carry the tools. A hit to a normal battleship with a heavy missile would incur heavy damage. The heavy guns are shooting at dreadnaughts and carriers.]

A huge thunder awoke station lieutenant Forbes, who had been sleeping. He wasn't sure what was happening, until he got up and looked out the window of his room: An eighteen inch gun cannon exploded directly, a group of marines retreating from the burning flames. Quickly dashing to the control room, still wearing his sleeping shorts and Station Lieutenants shirt, and nothing else, Forbes entered the room, realising something was wrong. Opening the second door, he could smell blood. Upon the third security door, he entered his key frantically and got a red "Access Denied". Still not calm, he dashed in another key "Access Denied"

"OPEN THE BLOODY DOOR!" He screamed.

No reply. Again, he screamed, but no reply. Smashing his hands on the two inch titanium door, he realised something had gone very, very, wrong. Dashing outside, the base was empty. He coughed as smoke filled his vision, and kicking the fire door down furiously he ran for the helicopter pad. Luckily, nothing had touched it, but the pilots were nowhere to be seen. He shuddered as another 25" round came falling down, slightly short of his position. A group of marines were running towards him. He figured that 25" was not a good bombardment weapon for such a small target, being long to reload and all, so he scrambled inside the helicopter as one of them jumped into the pilot seat, the rest giving him a smart salute as they entered the helicopter. It's rotor blades quickly chopped, as another three shells came roaring down, splitting the base in two with another mighty explosion. It was only then that Forbes really realised how lucky he was: He and these six other fellows were the only ones alive on that island. There wasn't even time to fire back. Noticing the fleet arrayed outside the island, he smiled some. He knew then that there would be sweet vengeance wreaked on the Freekian scum that day, waiting patiently until the helicopter could dock at the LPH waiting for them, full of civilians.

FDN WARSPITE
"what the-" Rodney was cut off by a comms report coming in from his left.

"Sir, Cariya Island has been wiped out. There are very few survivors. The Praetonians are engaging the enemy"

"Then we shall do the same" Rodney grimaced. "Bring the fleet about to fourty five degrees port of the Freekians, and notch our guns to correct firing solutions. Keep our submarines on station" Rodney glanced at the SONAR reading next to his control panel: A group of green blips advancing slowly.

"correct that order Ensign, send three Submarine squadrons out to meet the Praetonians and engage with them. Shut our boys down on electric and have them dive to max capability"

The Ensign nodded as Admiral Rodney continued orders. "Give our arsenal ships firing solutions for our heavy Waxers and tell them to fire at will. Keep our escorts scanning."

A chorus of "aye sir" rattled round the bridge as his orders were carried out. The VLS cells of the twelve arsenal ships in the task fleet creaked open, only a tenth of their thousand missiles to be used in this first opening bombardment. Streams of smoke emananted gracefully from the cells, the legion of Waxer SCRAMJet anti capital missiles sloping gently into the air.. soon they would smash onto the Freek superdreadnoughts at mach 6 with a devastating effect on the turrets and VLS cells, the main targets of the Hogsweatian floating missile vessels.

Within five minutes all guns of the three superdreadnoughts had a firing solution. On the decks of the Warspite, Wellington, Westland SDNs sailors rushed inside or to safe locations, knowing well the following artillery engagement would either deafen them or make their ears ring like church bells on a marriage. The five quadruple 25" electric-chemical powered turrets turned their barrels in the direction of the closest Freek Sentinel superdreadnought, a total of sixty of the huge bores silently gathering target information from their FIGHT RADARs. The Warspite's 27"ers fired first, the salvo piercing the sky with a scream and a thud. Then there was smoke and silence. Then, without warning, the other dreadnaught's guns exploded, sending their deadly target, powered by a mini jet engine, straight at the same Dreadnought. Rodney's aim was to cripple the AMF fleets capital ships. He knew that they had very little, and the enemy was going to rely on them to come to him: Enough of that was clear via GPS imagery and UAV flights. However, he was determined to be the one to sink the accursed enemy vessels. Glory for the Free Democratic Navy! Glory for Hogsweat! Glory for Democracy!

A squadron of Submarines, in the FDN anyway, was twenty vessels, eight of them nuclear powered and the other twelve diesel electrics. The captains of the nuclear boat's dashing hopes were cancelled when they were given their order: Hold back and defend the fleet. They knew that the stealthier diesel's would be the first strike, their torpedo tubes ready to send death in a cylinder at the Freekian scum. The three squadrons, 33rd, 49th, and 11th had been chosen for this operation specifically because of their outstanding capability in wargames. It was proven that these three squadrons were the top three squadrons in the FDN. The other nine attached to the fleet were not so proven, however, they were well trained, equipped, and determined to fight to the end, if needs be, for their country.

Rodney watched as his shells dropped, unsure what damage he could possibly do. He knew the enemy was retreating, and he knew that the Freeks Superdreadnoughts were less armoured but faster than his.
"Navsign, set us on parallel to the Freek fleet, full speed ahead. Make sure the fleet stays in it's proper formations. Being only two knots faster than the Warspite's, the Sentinel SDNs weren't that much faster, but they were still speedy enough to make an escape. Rodney, however, was hell bent on taking at least one of those Superdreadnoughts down.

[OOC INFO: The "waxer" is a scramjet, meaning it goes super high and comes down super fast. Its got a charge about the size of a tomahawks, but it's long and thin and it's hard to take down. they won't cause that much damage really, it's my main first strike option though.]

Fuck.

The Captain of the Reaver lets the words slip as a 27" shell slammed into the stern of his recently compelted ship. The pride of the Freek navy, the Reaver was slightly more advanced than the Sentinel, and this would be a slight setback to the Freek Navy. Flaming chunks of metal and human flesh filled the air as well as a fine mist of gore and seawater as the shells rained in all around.

The Sentinel had received a graze to its port side, causing the crew to close compartment C-112 just in case the hull sprung a leak. The Reaver however would need repairs, especially to its 18" batteries on the stern of the ship. The rear of the vessel looked like a pen after someone got done chewing on the end of it.

A large pillar of smoke billowed out of the rear storage compartment, and the sub and aircraft launching bays had to be shut down as a result. Damage sustained was roughly 10%...a figure that was higher than expected. The Sentinel however, proceeded to drop dozens of mines in behind it as it sped away towards the Straight. Other mine vessels did their part as well, dropping dozens upon dozens of mines every minute. While the Admirals were certain that the mines would do little but buy them time, it was time well needed.

The Sentinel also wasted no time in deploying several fighter wings to keep the convoy safe. The other carriers in the armada had planes on the deck and ready to launch if need be, but as the Straight came into view, it was unlikely the enemy would press an air battle without naval support. The Reaver would have to be placed in port until repairs could be completed, and word had already been sent to the Panteran mainland that a full crew was to be assembled immediately.

Freek subs maintained their proximity to the fleets, but stayed far enough back to act as a deterrent. Several hundred of them had been called into action, but soon they would do something unexpected along with the rest of the AMF fleet....

Suddenly the entire armada fragmented into nearly two hundred smaller battlegroups and headed in different directions. Some would defend the straight, others would whip around to the other side of the AMF mainland. It looked like roaches scattering after a light had been turned on, but the chaos was well organized. Surely the enemy would wonder what the hell was going on.

Sir, are we retreating? Chirped a jumpy seaman to the Captain of the Reaver. Nonsense, shit for brains! We're simply fighting in a different direction!

"The panic these people show under fire is quite astounding," Fletcher said, contemptuously as he viewed a simplified extrapolation of radar data displayed in the form of a flat screen monitor layed horizontally in the middle of the bridge, merely a more advanced version that a table strewn with maps. He was seeing the Automagfreek navy scattering into hundreds of tiny groups. "What the hell are they doing?" He asked himself.

"Sir, the enemy appears to be retreating," said a Lieutenant on the bridge.

"They're putting up large numbers of aircraft, Admiral," said another. None of them knew about the mines, but the fleet did not intend to advance in its current state. Fletcher acknowledged the reports.

"Maintain enhanced fighter patrols for the next two hours. If the enemy fails to advance in that time recall the planes and maintain normal CAP patrols," the Admiral ordered. Although he wouldnt admit it in front of his men, he was relieved. The entire Automagfreekan was set against his two measly battlegroups and they could so easily have overwhelmed and destroyed his entire force.

"Have the submarines give chace, but have their keep their distance. Active sonar off. They are ordered strictly not to engage unless engaged themselves, they are to follow at a distance of not less than 50nm and they are not under any circumstances to enter the straight."

An echo of 'yes sirs' filled the bridge once more, and low frequency signals were sent to the submarines carrying their new orders. In the inky gloom of the lower stratems of the sea, thirty six submarines - thirty six wraiths - went about an Empire's business.

Decend into hysteria, chaos of mankind. But who is listening to the voice...of...hatred...tortured souls lost so completely lost, weakened in the concept of decline, deception.

The ships began to scatter into smaller formations as the missiles prepared to rain down upon them. The AI targeting on board every surface combatant sprung to life as the 'battle stations' alarm was raised. Buzzing and whirling into their firing positions, the Freek ships took aim towards the heavens and prepared to swat down the enemy's first strike.

Dreadfire watched from on board his flagship, the Mouth for War. His words blared over the speakers as the AI automatically fired its first salvo of short range EMP missiles. Onward, creatures of the night. This is to be your finest hour, your hour of glory! This is what you were made for my children, the Great Beyond! Go now, fight! Show the heathens that they will rue the day they drew swords against us, and into the terrible night we will plunge them headfirst. The Gods demand tribute my Sentinels, a tribute of blood and fresh souls! Go now! FIGHT!

Dreadfire was screaming so loud over the speakers as that his face had turned a deep red. The sounds of missiles screaming off of their platforms were matched only by the hundreds of CIWS guns that spun into position, ready to fire one last wave of lead into the air before impact. Two hundred CIWS systems between the 2 Superdreadnoughts would draw most of the fire that managed to slip past the countermeasures, and the CIWS of nearly another six hundred surface ships would join in the song of destruction.

One by one the missiles took to the air, their tubes reloaded within seconds and emptied just as quick. Over 150 assorted missile craft fired so much ordinance into the air that the smoke trails nearly blackened out the skies. The sun was made even less visible as the missiles that slipped through slammed into the hulls of the first Freek ships, sending them into a fury of orange glory. One ship was split in two as it absorbed nearly half a dozen missiles to its ammo magazines, and the Reaver continued to take shots to its vulnerable stern. 20 and 30mm CIWS fire began to drown out the sounds of the missiles as the guns whirled about madly, firing so much and so fast that the loading crews were doubled to keep the guns fed.

The Freeks continued to swarm about in organized chaos, hoping to confuse the missiles and drag them over as much fire as possible. Ships were exploding along the outer perimeter in great succession, their damage ranging from light to crippling. But as the packs of enemy missiles began to subside, Dreadfire ordered a large return volley from each frigate in the fleet. Supply vessles would be waiting for them in the Straight, which they were nearly upon. The frigates began to group in the center of the convoy as their tubes were reloaded and readied.


Are we alive or just breathing? Don't close your eyes, see the images.

The 150 missile craft scoped in on the enemy positions via satellite and launched thier first grouped salvo of high explosive missiles. The AI guidance systems on board each ship computed the paths of each missile, and they were programed to fly through the air in a tight formation, spreading apart during their final approach and at the last possible second. In unison, 150 missiles filled the air in retalliation, followed a few seconds later by yet another volley. Each ship would fire a mere 8-10 missiles each before breaking ranks and moving into the Straight. And fire they did, their instruments of death headed towards the ships of both Hogsweat and Praetonia.


The skies weep tonight, our bodies washed away.I am waiting for you... (deliverance)...
The sun falls through the clouds...
(hear my cry)...


Before everyone knew it the firing ceased, and the silence was broken only by the explosions of doomed ships, the screaming of flaming sailors, and the crackling of open flames. The ships that could not be salvaged were left to float or sink in the waters, the crews hastily picked up before the fleets moved on towards both AMF and Pantera.

The first skirmish of the war had been a brutal one for the Freeks, and it was sure to be a brutal one for the navies of Hogsweat and Praetonia in a few short minutes. As the Freeks entered the AMF-Panteran Straight, they were greeted by hundreds of Panteran and Gholgothan warships. The ever watchful eyes of the shore batteries guided them into their haven, and ships such as the Reaver were rushed into port without a second to waste. With 25" guns, the Reaver could still do its job if the enemy was foolish enough to wander into a deadly bottleneck.

Well done my children, let is not forget those we have lost today, and let their fate be cast and reflected back upon our foes then fold.

I...am waiting for you.....

-Just Barely Breathing-
Killswitch Engage

[OOC: Heh, The forum wouldn't post this yesterday]
The Warspite's guns rumbled again, this time only the for'ard three, shells screaming over the forecastle as the two front quad guns and the dual C gun shot their deadly loads over the maximum range, expecting at least one or two hits. The crew were excited from their last salvo: A direct hit! They could see some of the smoke drifting slowly and dissipating in the misty air. Rodney let a smile slip through his stern features as he watched the Freek dreadnaught take a hit to it's stern, the commander slipping the ship around into full retreat. Something is wrong Rodney thought. Why was the enemy, a larger force than his in home ground retreating and spreading out?

"navs, bring fleet around to line us up with their spread of retreat. Get us port on their fan of withdrawwal and slow to twelve knots."

"Affirmative, Admiral"

The Hogsweatian fleet turned hard to port, coming round into a full circle, the Warspite letting off it's last full salvo before it let the Freek fleet retreat out of engageable range. The Hogsweatians were now slowing to ten knots as they were lined up, the submarines advancing still on all quiet. The sea floor up to 50 km away was literally a hotbed of SONAR direction: if there was something there it would be picked up sooner or later. Anti submarine helicopters let their blades fly, swooping over the dark waters.

Meanwhile, the five supercarriers with the fleet, who had since now hung back slighty from fear of being hit by a dreadnought shell, moved up and let off their CAPs, two squadrons of fixed wing interceptors each. The Hogsweatian fleet was now pulling a direct turn back to Cariya Islands, away from the AMF fleet.

Admiral Rodney cursed silently. The cowardly fools.. and he vowed to destroy at least one of the Freeks' superdreadnoughts in what was to be the largest war in the history of mankind. Rodney let his submarines continue though.. he needed scouts and he needed to know what the hell the Freeks were doing. He waited, tired of all this chasing, for his Government to release a message.

[OOC: sorry for crap post, im not in the mood to post really today]

Destroyer FDN Unfixable
"Sah! Picking up missiles..and alot of 'em"
The Captain of the ship spun round.

"Well then what are you waiting for? Shoot them down!"

"Yessah! Firing solution locked in long range Aster's..engaging"

The anti missile VLS slots of the Archer class Destroyer opened swiftly, the missiles roaring out to meet their counterparts. The Lieutenant watched as the accuracy numbers dodged up onto his screen: 0%, 19%, 25%, 33%...
The rest of the Light Destroyer squadron on the edge of the retreating Hogsweatian battlefleet were doing the same. Missiles knocking each other into the sky..the Lieutenant looked down onto his arms ensigns control panel:
45%, 55%..

"Sir, we've lost range with long Asters!"

The Lieutenant bit his lip. Against any good missile the only thing they really had was the Aster.

"Alright, slot up JOCIWS and internal defenses. Bring me up a tactical display."

"Too late sir!" The Arms sailor ducked as a rattle and a whoosh engulfed the sound of the bridge of the destroyer, the 30mm minigun and light guided rockets attempting to engage a missile as a slight zzzzzz could be heard, the sound of a laser and light defence system trying it's last countermeasures, and then, there was nothing. The Lieutenant lifted his head up.

"Arms? Damage report?"

"Sah, seems we have a zero damage..nothing hit us."

The missiles not stopped by the outer destroyers zoomed over, hitting some and causing burning wreckage to fill the outer picket. The Destroyers slinked up to pick up their comrades that were lucky enough to survive as missiles roared overhead, hitting capital ships and being gunned out the air by an occasional JOCIWS burst. The Westland, a huge superdreadnought spanning over a kilometre long and three hundred metres wide, took ten missiles to it's belt, fireballs covering the side and engulfing some of the smaller patrol boats. The Captain, Star Admiral Hatcher, watched as the missiles hit the huge armoured belt of the Superdreadnought and simply did no damage at all, except some bruises. He wasn't watching when another stream of missiles smashed into his for'ard gun, setting off a chain reaction which was only controlled by dedicated crew and control support. Along the fleet, missiles did various damage, from scratches to sinkings, from ammunition detonation to system loss. Either way, the fleet had to cope with the loss of eleven of it's fine light destroyers, two light cruisers, damage to the decks of a carrier, and a wound to the Westland's gun. However, alert and ready Captains and missile defence systems had saved alot of the damage.

Rodney watched as the missiles did their damage, explosions, twisting metal, and drowning bodies the result of a fierce Freek counterattack. Although..his fleet had stopped over two thirds of the missiles before they hit. It was time to fight back..He spat into a cup as he looked at the enemy ships displayed around him.

"Ensign, increase speed to twenty knots. Have the fleet follow us just into main gun range"

"Yessah!"

The Hogsweatian fleet moved into range of the Freeks, as firing solutions for the enemy SD whirred and spurred on the FIGHT targeting system, the Warspite's main guns sounding off again as they notched slightly into range. the Warspite herself had taken no damage, but she intended to give it out - and soon her sister ships would be in range.

Admiral Fletcher stared at his battlemap in frustrated. "Damn," he cursed softly. The two fleets were engaging each other at range and he was pleased for the success of the Hogsweatian fleet, but the frustration of not being able to do anything but throw his rapidly decreasingly store of missiles at the enemy was becoming overwhelming.

"Radar - ETA of the Triumphant?" He snapped, looking up from his flat screen battlefield overview.

"16 hours, sir. Should I request Admiral Portdown increase speed?" Replied the radar operator.

"Yes - at once. Tell him that it is imperative he arrive on station as soon as possible," replied Fletcher. In another part of the world, Admiral Portdown's 5th Enforcement Fleet increased speed to 31knts. 'May the Gods of the Sea speed him on his way, because by God do we need his 25" guns'. Silence fell upon the bridge once again, Fletcher went back to his map and the crew went back to their stations.

The radar operator resumed his station also, which showed only empty seas. Gradually, however, the screen became to fill up with dots. hundreds of dots, each representing a single missile. "Shit."

"I beg your pardon Lieutenant," Fletcher said, looking up from his map.

"Ummm... sorry sir... we... we've got missiles..."

"How many, Lieutenant?"

"Bloody thousands, sir." This time the Admiral ignored his Lieutenant's infraction of naval discipline. Before he could say another word, however, the fleet's Oberon missile defence system came into action. Hundreds of missiles smashed through the ceramic lids of their VLS cells, spraying the decks with a fine ceramic powder.

"Observe, Lieutenant, one of the most advanced anti-missile systems in the world in action," Fletcher said, remaining resolutely calm. Inside, he was terrified, but officers did not show fear for the sake of their men - not least full Admirals.

The missiles, at this point Javelins, shot towards the enemy missile swarms. A missile's RAMjet activated, causing the weapon to jolt forwards to cruise at high mach speeds. The missile's radar guidances switched off as it approached the enemy swarms. The missile's IR guidance activated, and it selected its target. The missile's RAMjet shot forwards once again, entering its terminal phase at high mach.

The missile turned, calculated its range, and exploded in a ball of flame, catching the back of the enemy missile it had been tracking. Out of the flames, deadly shards of metal shot in all directions. Another enemy missile was badly slashed by the seering hot metal. It spun, shot back as its engine began to disengage and it was caught by the suddenly overpowering wind resistance, and it lunged into the depths of the sea below.

Other missiles, however, were not so lucky. The Lieutenant was gripping the edge of his radar display panel very hard, trying not to betray his fear. What was once a solid block of dots on his screen had thinned out a great deal, but there was still a frightening large number of dots.

The next face of the Oberon system began. This time short ranged Discus missiles shot from the fleet's VLS cells and towards their enemy counterparts. Yet more enemy missiles were consumed in flame, or struck down into the icy seas. Praetonian jet fighters and helicopters moved to engage as many missiles as they could with their own missiles.

"Steady men," Fletcher said as much to himself as to his crew. In past naval gunfire was brutal and could easily main hundreds by dislodging hundreds of shards and splinters of wood from the sides of a ship into the gundecks. Now, death from a missile was quick and much less likely unless a ship was hit several times, but the interminable waiting for the missiles they knew were coming to impact was telling upon a crew.

The last line of defence, the very final, last-ditch barrier between life and death engaged as the missiles shot close into the fleet's gunrange - CIWS. Fletcher heard CIWS guns rattle off their shots. The guns were short ranged and unreliable, but even they struck a few more missiles from the air.

The CIWS stopped and the fleet was silent for what seemed like an age, but in reality it lasted only a second. Admiral Fletcher's bridge filled with a bang that deafened the crew. Flames licked the walls and the bridge filled with smoke. The carrier had been hit in eight seperate places, five of which had penetrated the vessel's armour and smahed into the hull. One had hit the carrier's island, just behind the bridge.

Two frigates were left as nothing but tangled metal and more than a dozen other escorts had been damaged. One Omega Class Battleship had taken several hits but the heavily armoured ship had stoically refused to sink despite the large, smoking holes in the side of its hull. Men lay dead on the decks of the fleet, but the damage had not been as heavy as it could have been.

"The enemy have entered port, sir," reported another Lieutenant aboard the bridge.

"Acknowledged, Lieutenant," the Admiral replied. 'We've been lucky today. Tomorrow we wont need luck.'

They're almost here...

Half of the AMF fleet began taking up defensive positions inside the Straight, while the remaining half would break their numbers in two once more. One convoy would whip around St. Freeksburg Island and park in the channel between that and the AMF mainland, while the other convoy would travel west, then to the southern part of the country.

While Dreadfire's numbers were superior, he decided to save his ships for a more imporant role, and hand the battle over to his coastal artillery crews and air force. In conjuction with the Panteran defenses, there was little logical choice other than to land on AMF soil. Craft from every carrier in the Straight began to launch and circle overhead, the high atmosphere fighter-bombers being the first the grace the heavens. Soon they would be followed by aircraft that numbered in the hundreds, as a joint Air Force/ Navy effort was made to keep the enemy forever out of the skies.

Below the waves, however, things were quite different. Scores of mines littered the entrance to the Straight, and to the south Freek Crawlers and submarines waited passively on the ocean floor, ready to release their payloads when the enemy came into range. This fight will not take place in the air, on the waves, or below them if the enemy is not willing to risk crippling casualties. Our perimeter is set so tight that I doubt anything they throw at us will cause us too much grief.

Dreadfire was pleased, the enemy thought him and fool but his defenses were well prepared. Sure, he could persist and hunt the enemy fleets down and turn Cariya into nothing more than a scortched path of Earth, but he decided to bide his time.

Sir, I'm picking up a number of Hogsweatian vessels approaching the Straight as we speak. Dreadfire looked at the real time imagery as it came in. Ah, the bastards think to hunt us down, eh? Alert the Devil's Finger (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=429368) crews to begin opening fire on them. I want their carriers, battleships, and that fucking SD shelled into oblivion.

From their underground caverns, the crews of the massive coastal artillery began the slow process of aiming the giant cannons in the proper direction. Although slow to reload and quick to wear down the lining of the barrels, the mammoth cannons would fire a several thousand pound high explosive projectile with deadly effect. It was mere minutes after the order was issued that the first shot rang out, so loud that people nearly 30 miles away could hear the blast. The giant recoil springs compressed as the gun fired, the two dozen man crew then moving the robotic arm carrying the next shell up to the breach. With assistance of the satellites overhead, the rocket assisted round would hurdle towards the enemy craft with surprising accuracy, and soon the staggeringly large shells would do their dastardly business.

Smaller 30 and 35" coastal cannons on St. Freeksburg Island also joined in the song of death and destruction, firing off their rounds as the Hogsweatian fleet came with shooting distance of the Straight. They had been foolish to pursue Dreadfire, and word had already been wired to Panteran High Command to begin shelling the fleet with everything they had. While still slightly out of missile range, frigates on the sea and tubes on the land prepared to fire off another deadly salvo, this time ready to use sheer numbers if need be.

Freek subs then were given word to move around the minefield and wait for their orders to attack. Once it could be confirmed that the enemy surface fleet could no longer aggressively enter the Straight, they would move forward and finish the job before an escape could be made.

Sir, missiles standing by for firing. We will also be putting nearly four hundred aircraft from both the Air Force and Navy into the skies within the next twenty minutes, another sizable garrison on immediate standby.

[OOC: Since I cant post anything until the AMF - Hogsweat naval battle is done, here's some propaganda:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v387/Praetonia/AMFwarpropaganda.png]

"Son of a bitch..."

The 35" shell whizzed past the ears of Rating Markov and slammed into the side of the Superdreadnought Warspite. A great explosion rocked the ship as the outer ERA layers exploded from the shell hit. The Warspite had been developed to withstand shells from old era Doujins, the ones still with 30" guns, but a 35" shell was pushing it's limits. Taking another one twenty metres to the left, the ship was listing to port as she rightened herself. Rodney had little need to give the order, as the FIGHT system in conjunction with satellites was already targeting the source of the shell. Without a doubt, the retalation was swift, as the Warspite with her two sister ships began moving into range of the shore. Putting their bows to the enemy guns, the SDN's reduced the target the enemy would have dramatically. However, the Warspite's were still huge vessels and it wasn't all that a hard target.

Rodney was pervaying his combat analysis maps and tactical data when the navigational ensign spoke up.

"Admiral Rodney, sah, entering engagement range for the Warspite in T minus fourty five."

"Excellent. Damage report?"

Another Ensign chimed in: "Sir, Starboard ERA layer has taken heavy hits and we've lost 85% of our reactive armour." That wasn't so bad - the heavy first strike reactive armour was usually designed to save the ship in the case of a huge gun attack. At least, until they could get into range. "Taken major damage to areas C04 through D17..crew bunks were affected. Amazingly..no hits on the VLS. We're clear there sir. Casualties are 18 killed, 45 wounded. We're treating the wounded in the sick bay now sir."

"I see. Thank you, Ensign." Rodney glanced out to sea again, watching the T minus countdown. Again the flash of the enemy guns flared and silenced. Rodney waited silently for them to hit something, accidentally biting his tounge and cursing as the Warspite took a shell to her bow, stripping an ERA layer and doing some damage to crew compartments. However, they were engaging at long range...enemy accuracy was worse. Soon they'd be in range of their own guns, and then death would rain upon - BOOM.

"Ensign, what the HELL was that?"

"Sir, it's the Wellington sir, she took a VLS hit!"

Rodney dashed outside, opening the door next to the bridge CIWS gun. He could see the Wellington, belching black smoke and burning fiercly. A few destroyers alongside were picking up fortunate sailors who had jumped off before the shell landed directly on the Wellington's VLS case - obviously the 4" of titanium of the revealing grid was not enough to stop a shell detonating over 3,000 anti air missiles: the result, a huge explosion, ripping apart the outer vertical launch system of the Wellingtons mini-hull. She was now listing lightly, the fire spreading and detonating a few ERA panels here and there. Rodney could just make out some brave sailors fighting the flames before jumping overboard.

"Sir, Admiral Bittona is requesting orders, what shall we reply?"

Rodney quickly turned around. "Tell the Wellington to proceed with operations orders." The Star Fleet Admiral of the Red replied. "We shall not be marred by..minor losses" he added.

The Hogsweatian fleet was now turning directly towards the guns of the AMF shore, and away from the Panteran's guns. Rodney knew the dangers of a crossfire..

"Ensign, open a comm channel to the Praetonian fleet. Do it, yesterday!"

Connecting to A-ComSat Matrix...Securing Communication Channel to Holy Panooly...Finding Lord Rampone & Baron Dominic Templeton...*Found*...Channel Secure...Sending Transmission...

To: Lord Rampone & Baron Dominic Templeton of The Territory of Holy Panooly
From: Chief of Staff General Arnold Saltzman of The Federal Republic of Aequatio

Lord Rampone & Baron Templeton of Holy Panooly,

We accept your offer of using the Aequatian Republic as the staging area for your nation's operations in this conflict, although deployment will have to be provided by the HP Navy itself or the Aequatian Air Force, as the Aequatian Navy is hard pressed already to deliver Aequatian Marines to the conflict zone. We shall make room at our nation's military bases for the HP troops and will prepare them for airborne deployment if necessary.

Chief of Staff General Saltzman of Aequatio

...Channel Closed...Transmission Terminated...A-ComSat Matrix Connection Severed...

*****

Throughout the nation, the Navy began moving the fleets into position for mobilization to the Cariya Islands to support the Automagfreek actions, nearly entire fleets were gathered for Operation Gemini, fourteen Carrier Battle Groups had been brought together for the mobilization, it was the largest deployment of Aequatian ships in the entire Republic's history. Within the coming weeks, more ships would leave Aequatio for the islands to support the coming operations. In command of the Gemini elements was the 30-year veteran, Admiral Robert Jenkins, who had already retired from active and his duties at the Naval Academy in Arrio, however, due to the circumstances of Operation Gemini, he was requested by name by President Berger to lead the mission to Automagfreek.

He stood on the flight deck of the RNS Hephaestus, his flagship, as it took its position as part of the battle group among the surrounding elements of the fleet, he looked over starboard and saw the Europa flying its colours and those of the 1st Fleet, she was the oldest carrier in the fleet and although one of the most capable, would not be deployed into a forward position during operations until much later. He chomped down on his cigar and fixed his worn and faded baseball cap before turning and walked back along the deck towards the bridge.

http://img362.imageshack.us/img362/1203/propaganda9fp.jpghttp://img392.imageshack.us/img392/1262/propaganda21pw.jpg
All over Holy Panooly posters like there graced the streets, fanning the flames of hatred against its ancient enemies, the three sisters. A mocking title for Hogsweat, Praetonia and Sarzonia coalition fighting against Automagfreek. There already was plenty of hatred to go around, but now that the Austian men on Alliance Island are defeated, the public opinion is now really turning against the three sisters. All over Holy Panooly wax statues and statuettes are burned representing the three sisters with a temper that is about to explode any minute from now. Every day mass demonstrations and protest marches are organised to show the world we support the cause against the three sisters. In many speeches the old haydays of the facists in Holy Panooly relived, and many people were hungering back to those days. In many speeches the talk of constant violations of treaties, the countless breeches of human rights, the violation of human integrity in their cloning laboratories, rape and murder fill the few radio broadcasts every hour on every moment of the day - from dusk till dawn.

In the larger towns and villages the local administration is handing out free radio's and communication systems to ensure the propaganda machine works at full efficiency. A vital vein in the warmachine - through which all information comes and goes is propaganda. Without propaganda, the war is doomed to fail. But for now, an eerie glow of ill gotten "power" and the scent of anger against all hostile elements roamed through the lush greens. Instead of music the speeches - even more pumped with anger and the content even more disturbing - consist mainly of all the crimes committed by the leaders of the three sisters. All of them were sexually abnormal, sodomites, happy to commit all sorts of bestialities, feasting lavishly in baths of champaign while signing death warrants and practicing all sorts of unsafe and absurd sexual fetishes. All three of them were the most hardline communist socialist states ever imaginable by sane humans, and waves of horror sweapt through the crowds whenever new facts surfaced about their deathcamps and the numbers of dissidents killed by their psychotic regimes.

Sounds an awful lot lik Holy Panooly fifty years back. Yet nobody seems to remember this. The pure hatred makes people blind for the truth. And the truth is given to the people by the government, no longer ill-organised but a well oiled hate machine.

Excellent, just as I expected.

Dreadfire watched as the Hogsweatian fleet turned away from the Straight and towards the shore. By shifting their course, the ships would cross the paths of several Devil's Fingers, but the trade off was in their favor. At this point there were two logical land targets for the fleets of Hogsweat to land on: St. Freeksburg Island, or the AMF mainland itself. The mainland would be risky, as it would involve either the enemy sweeping close to St. Freeksburg and landing on the mainland amidst a hail of sustained fire from AMF proper and the island....or they could swing around wide. But by that time the fleet that had already made it half way around St. Freeksburg would be upon them, and they would find themselves in a pincer.

The other alternative was St. Freeksburg. Racked with steep mountains that nearly touched the beaches, it would be a devastating gauntlet of artillery and anti-air defenses, with a large contingent of troops heavily dug in. Either way the options for the Hogsweat Navy were daunting, even with Praetonian ships closing in on the horizon. The Aequatians were also coming into the battle, and this would further force the enemy to make a decision.

Damien was no fool despite what his foes spewed forth in propaganda, and he had positioned his defenses in such a manner that he could either predict or manipulate the next move. So far things had gone off without a hitch, despite the Reaver being docked for around the clock repairs, which he swore he'd avenge.

Gholgoth awaits, my friends. Come to Automagfreek, the place where fools come to die. The Destroyer cackled with joy inside Damien's head as the orders were sent to increase fire on the advancing fleets. The would soon be in range of the 30" guns, and soon the "Triple O's" as they were called would begin to steal their share of the action from the 35ers and the Devil's Fingers. Once the 30 inchers sounded off a hail of missiles would follow, and soon the enemies of the Empire would learn a lesson in respect and fear. With the Reavers to the north and the Aequatians closing in from the south and other places, things were going well for the armies of Gholgoth....many of which were still laying dormant, waiting for their time to strike.....

Peters Air Force Base, San Allimos, Aequatio

The entirety of XXIII Corps was being mobilized around the base as the three airborne divisions were being prepared for deployment to the Automagfreek mainland to aid in its defence with the possibility of a coming invasion. The Air Force's fleet of C-17 Globemaster III aircraft had taken up nearly all of the tarmac on the base along with that of San Allimos International Airport, which had been commandeered by the Army and Air Force to move troops, equipment and vehicles. Being airborne units, they were the first of the Aequatian military's units to be ready for deployment, second would be the Marines who would support Freek forces elsewhere when needed along with the aid of the Navy. Along with the fleet of C-17 aircraft, the new F-39 Copperhead fighters escorted them as they took off from the airbase and plotted their course to St. Freeksburg, once the F-39 fighters had reached their maximum range, Navy F-36 fighters would take over escort duties until the aircraft reached Automagfreek airspace, where they would be considered more than safe for landing.

Among the several scores of paratroopers on the Globemaster, the young Private First Class Jamie Stills sat quietly on the bench holding his G4 rifle and looking at the photograph he had pulled from within his camouflaged helmet, his newborn daughter was beautiful and he knew that what he was doing, just as his grandfather before him had during the first Automagfreek Civil War, would insure that she would grow up safe. Although a separate country, every Aequatian child is taught in their elementry school years that those of Automagfreek are considered brothers to those of Aequatio and are to be treated and aided as any Republic citizen would be. He looked out the window on the aircraft and saw his beloved homeland disappear over the horizon, not knowing whether or not he would return to see it or his little Rebecca.

"And this Comrade, is why we must mobilise and strike now before any time is lost"

Minister of Defense Arneyva Bastrakov dropped four large satellite images of moving Aequatian aircraft carriers onto to the oak table, slightly covering the direct tactical implants the table had received. No less than fourteen aircraft carriers (i'll assume, since you said fourteen groups) and some amount of escort vessels alongside them were now displayed in colour and thermal GPS photographs.

"See Comrades, before the enemy moves these to combat our forces, we must mobilise. We outnumber these dogs 2-1! They cannot win!"

Premier Maykov moved the GPS photos aside, looking back and forth towards them and the tactical screen which was showing the Hogsweatian Superdreadnoughts duking it out with the shore emplacements.

"And what about our SDN's, Comrade Bastrakov?" Maykov looked up at the Defence Minister. She was met with a reply that led several grunts of appreciation and approval from the rest of the General Staff.

"Reinforce them with another SDN and another two carrier fleets. We'll swing around the 1st to 21st Carrier Groups, with an SDN or two, and catch Aequatio from surprise. We have only issued a declaration of war against AMF - not them. If we hit first there's no way we can lose."

The whole room looked at the Premier. A few seconds later, her answer was "Then make it happen, Comrade." She saluted quite smartly with a "For the Union!", which the room echoed.

Only minutes later, the order was given and every Admiral in charge of one of the remaining 23 Super Aircraft Carriers had their Battle Order laid out in front of their tactical display. They hadn't been allowed to leave their ships since hostilities began with AMF. Every crewman was allowed one single phonecall..and that was it. They had been expecting their orders for some time, and it had finally come. From every major port in the FSSUH, the 983 metre long aircraft carriers and their escorts left only five hours after being ordered. Such was the readiness of these men and their vessels. The last aircraft carrier to leave, Star Admiral Sumerov's PSN Indomitable and its' fifty battlegroup companiions, left Scapa Flow at 1 O clock at night to link up with the fleet who were now travelling at a paced fourteen knots. The nuclear turbines of the Indomitable whizzed and spurred as they moved the ship onwards at its' maximum speed of 29 knots. Soon twenty one of the giant aircraft carriers, dwarfing the fleets destroyers and frigates, would be in a delta formation with the famed PSD Interceptor at the fore of the unstoppable formation.

Away from the primary formation, which was by now just leaving Haven's sovereign waters, the rest of the world wondering why the hell such a huge formation was moving (Compensation, perhaps?), two aircraft carriers and their respective escorts, the PSN Interrogater and the PSN Inflammable were slinking away to Automagfreek.

[OOC: Will elaborate on SD combat later.]

3rd Enforcement Fleet, PWS Triumphant

"Gunfire on the horizon, Admiral," indictated the Captain of Portdown's, pointing towards a tiny flash on the horizon he had observed through his telescope and indicating the Admiral to direct his own instrument towards it also.

"So I see," said the Admiral, not bothering to use his telescope, "What the bloody hell do those damned Hogsweatians think they're doing."

The Captain looked taken aback. "Sir?"

"Yes you heard me Captain. They have retreated towards their shore batteries in an attempt to impale us upon them. It's a damn silly ruse but the Hogsweatians have fallen for it, and no doubt those waters will soon be infested with submarines."

The Captain frowned. He didnt want to believe it of his allies but he knew it was true. "Perhaps they will find some way to snatch victory from this situation."

"Maybe, Captain, maybe."

"What else can you expect fighting Automagfreek. They've destroyed all before them in the past."

The Admiral frowned once more, before turning on the Captain, "What, precisely have they destroyed, good sir? Austo-Hungary?" The Admiral let out a shrill laugh, "Some tin pot little dictatorship in the middle of nowhere? Some god forsaken little island? I shall not have defeatism in my fleet, Captain, especially not concerning these people."

At that moment, a call rang out from the bridge.

"Admiral, we are approaching the Cariya Islands."

"Very good, Lieutenant. Is Fletcher maintaining station?" Portdown said, walking from the observation deck to the bridge, leaving the Captain behind.

"Yes sir."

"Most excellent," replied Admiral Portdown. Although they held the same absolute rank, Portdown had been in the navy longer and had a better command and therefore outranked Fletcher.

"The Hogsweatians have not, sir. They are advancing under heavy fire from shore emplacements," continued the Lieutenant. Portdown frowned.

"That is unfortunate. Most unfortunate. Can we offer them support?"

"They are signalling us, sir." Portdown acknowledged the news with a sharp nod, and took the radio to return the signal to the Hogsweatian fleet.

"Good Afternoon, Rodney," Portdown greeted the Hogsweatian Admiral, sternly, "It seems that you're in a spot of bother. My fleet can support you from here with long range cruise missiles, but I shall not bring my fleet within range of their guns."

Whilst he waited for a reply, he was distracted by a report that frenzied activity had been detected in Aequatian ports. He turned back to the radio transmitter, "I dont know if you've been informed yet, Rodney, but Aequatian ships are moblising. I should worry though - it'l take them a good while to mobolise their fleet if it's any good, and a month or more to get here."

Jenkins was in his quarters reading when his phone rang, it was the bridge officer, "What is it, son?"

"Sir, we've received orders from CentCom, they want us to divert and move to Automagfreek waters, the islands will have to wait until we can repel the invaders," replied the young commander, "We're to join the Automagfreek fleet numbers and take up defensive positions."

"All right, make it so," said the admiral, "Have the fleet keep their watches tight and move the submarines out to the flanks and out ahead of the fleet, that way the main force won't be destroyed if ambushed."

Aye aye, Sir," came the reply as he hung up the phone.

The entire fleet moved in unison as they changed course to Automagfreek waters, the Cariya Islands would have to wait for Aequatian feet to step upon them for now. The focus was on helping to defend Automagfreek and the Aequatian forces deployed there.

*****

The Globemaster aircraft approached Automagfreek airspace and the lead aircraft's pilot turned to a channel to contact the Freek ATC, "Freek Air Traffic Control, this is Aequatian Airlift Flight Gemini Alpha carrying the XXIII Airborne Corps to support Freek home forces against foreign invasion, requesting a landing port to deploy the paratroopers, over."

"Admiral, we should be approaching combat range within two hours."

"Understood. Commander, get me a tactical display of what's going on near those islands."

"Aye, sir."

Vice Admiral Tom Goughan walked over deliberately to the display as the DontPissUsOff and her battlegroup knifed through the waters toward the islands. He knew to avoid risking friendly fire that he would have to identify his fleet and its intensions, though he also knew he would likely be throwing his fleet directly into a combat zone while events were playing out fiercely over in Branwyn.

"Looks like there's some shooting going on in the distance. Hard to make out who's firing on whom."

"Sir, I'm receiving word from Naval Command."

"What have they got to say?"

"They want us to rendevous with the other Sarzonian fleets en route to the battle range and set off for Pantera."

"They want what?"

"They apparently want us to take the war to Pantera's doorstep."

Like they just did to us, Goughan thought. "The Panterans won't like that very much, will they?"

"They weren't very respectful of our feelings, were they?"

"Right, but that's Pantera."

"I know bloody well who we're fighting," Commodore Kieran Gregg intoned with just a slight change of the tone in his voice. It wasn't enough to qualify as his raising his voice at his superior officer, but it was enough to send quite a message. "We've been fighting on their terms all along. Now it's time to take the fight directly to those bastards."

"Sir, we're within one hour of the Praetonian naval fleet's position," the communications officer chimed in. "We can contact them if you'd like."

The Praetonians, Goughan thought. It would make sense to contact them, would it not? He thought for a moment. One problem that bedeviled Sarzonia in some of their prior war coalitions was a lack of coordination. It happened once when Sarzonia was allied to Austar Union and Axis Nova and it happened when Sarzonia and Mass Pwnage were allies against the Communist Xenizens. With friends like them, who needs enemies, Goughan thought when he flashed back to Mass Pwnage's actions in that war.

"Very well," Goughan said. "Put me in touch with the Praetonian admiral, apprise him of our situation and let's find out from him what he thinks of all this."

"Aye, sir."

"Commodore Gregg, you have the bridge. I'll be in the situation room."

"Aye, sir."

Goughan walked briskly through the large bridge of the enormous Sarzonian flagship toward the elevator that led to Deck 12. He had a large tactical display and cartography of the region at his fingertips and he felt much more in control sitting in the situation room, even more so than he did on the bridge.

"Looks like we're going to be ready to rock and roll soon," Commander Louise Drayton said.

Gregg just nodded his agreement and sat down in the command chair in the centre of the bridge, gazing thoughtfully out toward the scene as it played out in front of his fleet. The Sarzonians were going to be bringing their own ordnance into the fray soon enough. The nation unfortunate enough to find itself in the crossfire would find out just how powerful Sarzonian anger could be.

"Sir, we're taking multiple hits. Damage to decks C1 through F14 is intensive."

Rodney was staring out to sea, watching the Wellington's VLS burn out and the ship starting to sail correctly in the flapping wind. Bitton was a good Admiral..her calm under fire was amazing. Rodney had a few promotions in mind, after this campaign. he glanced back to the Damage Report the Ensign had sent him.

"Oh, er, thank you." his brows ached as he pervayed the damage report. Slowly, he said "Ensign, pull us out of those guns combat range. There's no point sustaining more damage.

"Sir?"

"Yes, do it now ensign."

Slowly the Hogsweatian fleet began, under withering fire, to withdraw from combat range of the huge mainland guns. Rodney knew however, that by the time the enemy stopped firing, if they did keep firing until possible; that their guns would probably need replacing, especially the 35"ers. He waited patiently for the Superdreadnought to turn and make it's way away.

Onboard the PSN Illustrious
Star Fleet Admiral Bunkersov hadn't really had much of a part in the battle so far. His two carrier groups, with the Illustrious and the Invincible had only been on station to protect the Cariya Islands. he had been ordered to make no offensive moves before the Superdreadnoughts had arrived. Bunkersov was wondering whether he would ever get a chance to engage the enemy. He closed his eyes momentarily, when his Scan Ensign shouted out

"Sir, picking up enemy aircraft over us. C17 Globemasters, identified as Aequatian. Orders?"

"Get me a direct link to Fleet TacCom. Have two flights of interceptors ready to scramble on the decks. Do it, now!"

On the decks of the Illustrious, elavators craned and whined as the HMI-29C CTOL aircraft began to prepare for liftoff. Along the long runway of the Illustrious, men scattered as one by one, across the eight different runways, the Hogsweatian manufactured aircraft, looking something not unlike a Mig-29, began to take off and scramble into the air. Within eleven minutes the conventionally launched aircraft were in the skies, and excited to be taking out their orders for the Motherland. As their thrusters exploded into life, jetting them at what would soon be Mach 2.9, the pilots prepared for extreme G forces. From what they knew, there would be no escorts. Easy pickings. The pilots pulled back the joysticks, glancing from side to side, observing their armament of six long range anti air missiles, each strong enough to bring down a C5 Galaxy in flames, and two external fuel pods, boosting the interceptors range to over 1,150 nautical miles, also complemented by another internal pod. This would enable them to be in the air for a little over an hour - easily enough time to do the damage needed. The HMI-29C Conventional Take off and Landing was the best the USSH had to offer. It's oh-so-slightly swept back wings where almost beautiful and it's two rear upwards-facing wings were just tall enough for the aircraft to look slim and aerodynamic. It's lower mounted thrusters where powerful and made the low-profile cockpit behind the cone end look fairly small in comparison. The Delta Box pattern adopted by the People's Soviet Airforce [PSAF] was a symbol of Hogsweat's airforce. It was seen at ceremonies and parades, but also in combat...

As the aircraft approached range of the Aequatian aircraft, they made no mistake in targeting and locking missiles. Not a word was said over the radio silence. The radar stealth form of the HMI-29's swept back wings and cockpit and advanced technology that had been piled into the overly expensive program. The 48 HMI-29s weren't expecting any Freek aircraft around- hopefully the CAP's would have kept them at bay. The first shot of the war against Aequatio was fired as Blue-Foxtrot-1 of the People's Soviet Naval Airwing [PNAW] let loose with it's missiles at a group of Aequatian Globemasters. The rest followed suit, and sped up to try and engage with their cannon at close range.
Like taking candy from a baby...

M'Lord, the Hogsweatians are falling back.

The news did not impress Dreadfire in the slightest.

I want a full report on their location. If they are out of range of the Devil's Fingers, then they must be roughly 100 miles off the coast. This will allow us to change out barrels on our coastal guns or repair them if they are damaged. I want it done in shifts, the most critical guns beign the first. I do not want our firepower to drop below 75% at any given time. Their ranks will soon swell, and we will need all the firepower we can get. Bring up some more mobile artillery and hide it as best you can. Use the trees and caves to your advantage.

Hogsweat has got but a mere sample of our wrath, and if they try to advance again they will be cut down in an even bigger hail of gunfire. See to it that it is done.

News of the retreat began to circulate, and the AMF Military wasted no time in spinning the events. Propaganda began to spill out into the streets of St. Freeksburg and other major coastal cities, urging the populace to take up arms if need be and defend their homes to the last man.

Citizens of Automagfreek, I bring you news from the front lines. The aggressors from Hogsweat have tucked their tail and are retreating, but how far back and for how long we do not know. All that we know is that they have tried to advance upon us, only to suffer devastating damage. My fellow citizens, this is a victory for Automagfreek, however small. The heathens have felt the iron fist of Lord Dreadfire, and if they have any intelligence about them they will know that if they attempt to land on our soil again, the destruction will be ten fold.

Your Lord and Master, Damien Dreadfire, is fulfilling his commitment to Automagfreek and its peoples. We ask that you remain as strong and committed as ever as we vanquish an enemy that cannot stand against us. Should they mass and manage to drive ashore, the Sentinels and Freek regulars will cut them to ribbons. There is a real chance that your community and home may come under enemy fire as a result of this. Do not hesitate in this hour to defend your families and your lives. You are fully authorized to shoot any Hogsweat soldier should you cross paths with one.

The battle is going well, but its scale will only magnify. But know that your guardians and saviors will fight and die for you, the people of Automagfreek.

Dreadfire scoffed as he read the announcement. Cheesy as hell, but I suppose it will do. Although they are right, we are on top so far. What is the currnet damage report?

A young Freek officer snapped to attention as he rattled off the statistics that were still comming in. Sir, enemy naval damages ranging from light to severe. Our naval damages ranging from light to moderate. Several craft sunk on both sides. Our land damages are none, with only wear and tear reported on the coastal guns. Barrels are being changed out and other on-the-spot repairs are being done to prepare the for a sustained firefight. The Devil's Fingers are having the insides of their barrels recoated with a special protectant, while some are being rebored. Underground crews are making adjustments to their rounds to adapt to the increasing bore size. So far, things are going very well M'Lord.

Damien was pleased, but annoyed that there were still intruders in his waters. Count Anderton and General Brinks were making their way around Mako Island to the south, while himself, Azrael, Vidimir Breathstealer, and The Vile held the AMF/Panteran Straight. Zander and Lucian Borgir had taken up position on the southeast portion of the St. Freeksburg/ AMF proper Straight, and were awaiting the second advance by enemy forces.

With the Aequatians and Panterans closing their fleets in, it was only a matter of time before the order would be sent out for a full naval advance. But for now he would continue to bide his time, resupplying and repairing his ships each minute.

In the mid-distance, Portdown could now see just over a hundred Praetonian warships surrounding the Hogsweatian islands which were themselves bristling with guns. On the horzion, Protdown saw nothing but flashes of light and thick black smoke. He put his telescope to his eye and, from his high perch atop the conning tower of his PSDN, he saw a low mist clear and the outlines of an entire fleet broke into view.

"Finally the Hogsweatians fall back, Portdown muttered to himself, "thank god for that."

"What do you think they will do now, sir," asked the Triumphant's Captain, respectfully.

"I do not know Captain and that puts me ill at ease. What, may I ask, do you think we should do now?" He shot the Captain a cold stare. This was qutie normal for Portdown, but the steely glance was unnerving none the less.

"I think, sir, that we should attack their guns." Portdown turned his head away disdainfully. "That is to say, sir, that they will be at their most vulnerable now. Their guns have been firing ceaselessly for some time now and they will either require immediate replacement, or, which is somewhat more likely, they will only have a few shots left. In either case, Automagfreek will not risk leaving a vital section of their shoreline defended by guns which cannot fire, or guns which can fire for only a few minutes. If we were to strike them now, we could hit them whilst partially dismantled."

Portdown nodded. He had seen ultra heavy artillery barrels being replaced before and it required a great deal of time and effort. Even replacing one of his lighter 25" pieces took several cranes and hours of hard work. It was impossible to replace a barrel from inside a turret - they are too large and heavy.

"Our cruise missiles outrange their guns by a considerable amount and they can fly low enough not to be engaged by their missile defences until they are some way towards the guns. We can catch their crews and machinery out in the open and deny them their guns for days or even weeks."

Portdown looked solemn. He stoop still for some time, looking out to sea where the gun flashes could still be seen. There was no honour in slaughtering maintenance crews with missiles from outside of their range of retaliation, but this was war and it had to be done. Portdown bowed his head.

"Launch the attack, Captain."

M'Lord, the Praetonian fleet has reached the Cariyan Islands.

The words rang out like a shot to Damien, and he suddenly diverted all of his attention to the developing situation. They appear to be moving out sir, shall I alert Zander and Lucian to intercept?

Damien ran his mighty paw against his chin and thought for a second. Yes, alert the Warchiefs to move out and intercept their ships. The Praetonians are almost 300 nautical miles away, while Zander and Lucian are within 80 miles. Brinks and Anderton are roughly 400 nautical miles away, so by the time the Praetonians arrive within landing distance, our fleets should have them in a pincer.

He rang his tongue across his teeth from behind his lips, still weighing his options. This is of course assuming that they are smart enough to attack St. Freeksburg Island, due to the limited Devil's Finger support it has from the mainland. By diverting the the mainland they will come under massed fire from Freeksburg and AMF proper, and be met by both fleets much sooner. No, they will not do this, not in heavily mined and sub infested waters. They will strike St. Freeksburg Island, or risk taking extreme losses.

A random sailor chirped up in the small crowd of officers, causing silence to fill the room. What about the Forbidden Isle? There was a long pause, and Damien starred ahead for several minute without blinking.

Even if my life depended on it, even I would not set foot on the cursed rock.....

Within minutes the mighty fleets of Zander and Lucian Borgir began to move out to the east. The Sentinel was a mere 60 nm behind the convoy with battleship and destroyer escort, and would arrive soon after the naval combat started. Real time satellite feed showed the Praetonians were massing for a push, more likely than not trying to take advantage of the repairs being done to the shore guns. While nowhere near critical, Damien decided to treat any problems early, to increase the amount of rounds he could spend before the guns could no longer effectively fire. The enemy guns on the SuperDreadnoughts would need replacing before the shore guns, which would be to Damien's advantage.

Order the 416th, 512th, and 601st Mobile Artillery divisions to the east/ northeastern shores of St. Freeksburg as a precaution. I want mobile long range missile platforms set up to guard against an advancement, and I want our electronic warfare specialists to set up a mobile command center near the front and do their part to keep enemy planes and missiles out of our skies. Also, alert our subs in the area to keep an eye on the heavens. Our satellites will transmit any major aircraft launches, and I want our subs to monitor for low level missile launches.

The communications officer barked a loud Yes M'lord! and immediately began fulfilling his orders.

"Alert... incoming missiles! Launch countermeasures! First, second and third wings break hard right and engage enemy aircraft, fourth, fifth and sixth wings stay with the Globies and keep them safe!" shouted Commander Fisher as he hit the button which swept his F-36 Viper's wings back and pulled on the stick to move with the others of the squadron to engage the enemy fighters.

The group of Vipers fell to the side and fired their afterburners as they sped off to find the enemy as the dusk sky was lit up by the flares fired off by the C-17 aircraft along with the clouds of chaff released which made the light twinkle, of all the missiles fired, nearly a third were fooled by the countermeasures and exploded far from any of the aircraft. However, not many were as lucky and scores of aircraft were hit by the missiles, some in minor fashions while others were hammered repeatedly by the missiles and either exploded or simply fall from the sky towards the ocean below. Though only a few could, some of the aircraft remained stable enough to release part of their payloads of paratroopers and filled the sky with parachutes as the surviving soldiers drifted down, watching their former transports fall into the dark waters surrounding Automagfreek. It would be the duties of the Navy Search and Rescue teams to gather the survivors from the waters from their ships in the fleet elements moving towards Automagfreek.

The three wings of twelve aircraft each sped towards the enemy aircraft, now identified as those of Hogsweat, each pilot switched on the ECM pods hung underneath the aircraft's fuselage and armed each aircraft's four AIM-120 medium-ranged missiles for launch, Fisher's voice broke the tension over the radio, "They fired off all their missiles, once you're in range, engage with AIM-120's and then close to cannon range, keep on them until they're destroyed or pull back!"

Air Above Freek Waters

Lieutenant Colonel John Sminkelov was cruising as part of his CAP, into the airspace around the aircraft carrier PSN Illustrious. He had watched as the flight of HMI-29s (http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b245/ComradeMatt/HMI29B.png) had taken off and zoomed into the early morning sky to intercept the enemy. His own '29 was loaded with anti air missiles, as Combat Air Patrol doctrine dictated. His formation was in a loose delta pattern with him at the lead. Sminkelov was planning to do two more circles of the Illustrious, and then land to refuel and have a little rest. He had only just completed the next lap when a crackled message came through over his intercom.

+++"Red-Foxtrot-3 to CAP, repeat, Red-Foxtrot-3, we are under attack by enemy aircraft and require immediate assistance, heavy losses, repeat, heavy losses, over+++"

Immediately knowing what to do, Sminkelov pulled his aircraft up 60 degrees and accelerated to the combat. His radar showed Red and Blue Foxtrot Flights engaging the enemy. They had indeed taken heavy losses, as under a half of the planes were still alive as they dashed for home to refuel and reload. Sminkelov could see thirty six enemy planes on the radar screen - he cursed as he realised the Hogsweatian's did not have enough missiles to fire back. His curse was quickly removed as the radar and intercom bursts showed multiple flights of 24 aircraft, Gold Expo, Blue Expo, and Red Expo from the carrier PSN Invincible, and himself as Green Foxtrot and another flight of comrades behind him as Gold Foxtrot, both from the carrier PSN Illustrious. He gulped, realising that Red and Blue Foxtrot where both from his unit. He'd have to come to terms realising that the enemy had killed alot of his friends. Switching on active tracking and arming his eight anti air missiles, Sminkelov bit his lip as his plane accelerated alongside the other 90-odd HMI 29's that had arrived from their CAPs, replaced by more squadrons from the huge supercarriers.

"+++Green Foxtrot-1 to all units, we are ready to engage, over+++"

"+++Roger that Green-Foxtrot-1, Gold Expo is ready to engage, over+++"

"+++Affirmative Green Foxtrot-1, Blue Expo ready to fight for the Motherland, over+++"

"+++Acknowledged that Green Foxtrot-1, Red Expo preparing to engage, over+++"

"+++Yep, we're behind you Green Foxtrot-1, Gold Foxtrot is ready, over+++"

The Lieutenant Colonel brought his plane down in a swoop over the Aequatian planes, letting loose missile after missile until it came to cannon fire. Short bursts of 25mm rounds pierced the sky as the whoosh and schwee of missile after missile struck through the air vapour and the vacuum of 20,000 feet.

"Admiral, I'm reading movements by the Freek fleets toward the Praetonian fleet."

"Let's have a look," Goughan said. He walked over to the tactical display and noticed the Freek fleets begin their movements. He grimaced slightly.

"Looks like they're trying to catch them in a pincer movement," he said.

"What do we do, sir," a lieutenant asked. "We're under orders to proceed to Panteran waters."

"Belay those orders," Goughan said. "Right now, we've got something more important to do." Walking toward the command chair with an air of authority, Goughan addressed the helm of his enormous ship, the DontPissUsOff.

"Helm, bring us to new course, bearing 56 degrees to starboard. Notify escort fighters to get in the air. All escorts and capital ships prepare to arm weapons. And I want as many ASROC launchers as we can aim readied with the Scourges and Scorchers. Get some of those Vultures up there with those Bayonets."

"Sir?"

"They can't run an effective pincer movement if one of their blades is otherwise engaged, can they?" Goughan said. "Once we get them in range, prepare to batter them with our largest naval guns and run full ASW sweeps. I don't want any of their submersibles to get any ideas."

"Aye, sir."

Goughan listened for the low rumble of the engines as the DontPissUsOff and her fleet changed course to set off for the enemy fleets. He also watched as several squadrons took off from aircraft carriers and the superdreadnought herself ready to serve as the fleet's eyes and her left jab. The enormous Mark 71 naval guns, with kinetic properties that even exceeded naval railguns for the sort of devastation they could inflict, would serve as the right hook.

Goughan decided to press the intercom himself, and in a voice that projected a steady calm owing to a near lifetime of naval experience, he instructed the crew of his own ship and his entire fleet.

"Sound general quarters. Steady as she goes."

We'll find out if those Freek ogres are really all that powerful, Goughan thought.

The 2nd Fleet head closer to the Hogsweatian islands listen for anything in the water. A E-2D Hawkeye II takes off and flys providing the fleet with some airborne ears and eyes. Fleet Admiral Stavler know he was doing. The fleet steams ahead at 20kts.

The 2nd Fleet head closer to the Hogsweatian islands listen for anything in the water. A E-2D Hawkeye II takes off and flys providing the fleet with some airborne ears and eyes. Fleet Admiral Stavler know he was doing. The fleet steams ahead at 20kts.


OOC: I know OOC comments to do belong in this thread, but if you are not going to construct well thought out, well written posts, then please refrain from participating. Thank you.

Fisher and the three wings had survived the barrage of Hogsweat missiles and cannon fire long enough to call in the position of the large gang of fighters. Lieutenant Jacobs, the second in command who was flying with the other wings in protection of the airlift fleet listened into the chatter as the aircraft that had broken off to engage had their pilot's voices disappear as they were destroyed or bailed out over the Freek waters, he switched to the command channel, "This is Jacobs, keep with the C-17's and only engage if the enemy comes within range, I'm going to call the carriers and have them send more aircraft to help us out." An echo of "Aye aye, sir!" was heard inside the Lieutenant's helmet headset as he switched the channel to contact the carriers which housed the remaining aircraft of his squadron, "Europa, wings one through three destroyed by enemy fire, wings four through six remaining with charlie seventeens unless engaged, request reinforcement until we reach the safe zone of Freek sierra alpha mikes, over."

"Affirmative, Lieutenant, launching foxtrot thirty-sixes of second squadron to shadow and provide cover for transports, Europa over and out."

Jacobs nodded before he realized that no one saw his acknoledgement, it was then that his relief was interupted by the realization that fighters launched now would take at least a good ten minutes to reach their current position and provide proper cover, "Damn it," he muttered to himself as he looked out his cockpit to the other fighters of his remaining squadron and switched to his command channel. "All right, friendlies are on their way, but it'll be a few minutes before they can get here, so keep cool and call 'em if you see 'em."

The old carrier's deck came to life as the seventy-two aircraft of the second squadron prepared to take off from the catapults, crews worked fast and hard, but it was only to avenge those aircrew lost to the cowardly Hogsweat attack. The squadrons were launched in groups of four and each wing assembled while on its way to the fleet of Globemasters and the fighters of first squadron. Commander Townsend looked at the time on his watch, "Ten minutes, I hope to god they can hold on long enough." The Europa wasn't the only carrier to launch aircraft, the new carrier Ares also prepared to launch a squadron of its F-36 Vipers to aid those of the Europa. Once in the air, the two squadrons of seventy-two raced ahead with afterburners on and wings fully swept back, ten minutes before contact... it was going to seem like an eternity for those that were waiting it out.

OOC: Prae, since you didn't specify roughly how many missiles you launched, I had to take a slightly different approach with this post.

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

OUTRAGE!

We have breaking news in the ongoing struggle against the foreign imperialist powers!

Today an unknown number of civilian contractors were killed while making repairs to Automagfreek's coastal defenses. 'AMF Iron Works' and 'Racine Steel Castings' were among the two corporations that have suffered losses when they came under a direct missile attack from the Praetonian Navy.

In the early hours of the morning Freek naval officers reported that their missile defense systems came online and began firing rapidly. Portions of Zander's fleet had arrived to help defend several coastal guns that were under repair, and they were the first to engage the incoming cruise missiles. Reports also indicate that land based defenses came online seconds later, also targeting the inbound projectiles. But alas the missile grids did not catch every single one, and as a result many lives have been lost.

Outrage has begun spreading across the country as the body count continues to rise. Several of our coastal guns were knocked out along with other things, and Lord Dreadfire has promised swift retalliaton for killing his civilians. Search and rescue personnel have already arrived on the scene alongside mobile artillery and missile batteries to supplement our defenses in the area.

When asked to comment on the situation, Defense Minister Marv Bonesplitter had the following to say:

"Today the people of Automagfreek have suffered a loss of some of its finest. We denounce this attack on civilians merely doing their job, and have already petitioned Lord Dreadfire to declare a state of Total War with Praetonia. If they see fit to attack our civilians, we will return the gesture ten fold.

I would also like to assure any and all Freeks still in the area that our defenses, although under siege, are still more than capable of holding back the Praetonian hoarde that encroaches on our territory. We will stop at nothing to kill every last one of them and set an example to the other nations in this large scale conflict.

There will be blood on this day, believe that."

Damien snickered as he viewed the news channels covering the attack. His propaganda would definately give him an edge as far as public relations went, and it would only be a matter of minutes before wordlwide condemnation of the attack poured in.

Sir, shall we send more Sentinel engineers into the area?

Dreadfire laughed and shook his head. No, that won't be necessary. With the media all over this, we have got to be careful. Just make sure that those paid to stage this do not slip up.

All attempts to breathe life into the con were taken. Identities of men that did not exist were created and given employee records in case any investigations were to take place. Taxes, bank records, report cards, all vital information was concocted and put into place, with not a loose end left untied.

Positioned in front of the House of Parliament in the very centre of Praeton itself was a stage. A stage upon which was a podium, mounting the Herladic Eagle of Parliament (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v387/Praetonia/PraeFlagII.jpg). A stage about which a battalion of red coated HorseGuards stood as if on parade, with long, sparkling bayonets pointing towards the sky. A stage, in front of whose guards, was a amassed a throng of thousands who filled Empire Square and poured out into Union Street and beyond. A stage, behind which, the first flag of Praetonia - a thousand years old - fluttered in the early morning breeve high above the city atop high tower of the Palace of Sax-Coburg Gotha. A stage on which stood the Prime Minister of Praetonia, Neo-Praetonia, Segmentum Praetonialis and Porta Praetoniatam.

"Yesterday, from the centre of the evil apparatus of the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek, Damien Dreadfire accused the Demcoratic Imperium of Praetonia of Imperialism. This man's grasp on the most obvious of facts about our and indeed his own nation not withstanding, the threat that has emerged in recent days is the greatest we have faced in the history of our island and of our Empire. Fifteen hours ago, the Automagfreek fleet attacked and destroyed a large section of the Hogsweatian Camirya Islands and killed many citizens and soldiers of Hogsweat. That fleet was driven off by the brave seamen of Praetonia and of Hogsweat - at the cost of many Praetonian and Hogsweatian lives. In a later attack against shore batteries, a number of Automagfreek military engineers were killed by Praetonian forces.

"We shall not argue the rules of war and those of common decency with those who would manipulate them. Every man woman and child who resides upon this earth has heard what they have done in Austro Hungary, every man woman and child who resides upon this earth knows of their evil deeds and every man woman and child upon this earth knows the kind of people who we will soon be fighting. It is well known and should not be understated that civilisation has not spread to Automagfreek. They are a tribal society who will attack without warning and kill civilians one day, and then accuse a democratic, stable and civilised state the next for killing people in the employ of their military and working directly to further the ends of their odious war machine.

"We have watched for decades with disgust as governments around the world have cow-towed to the machinations of their despairing regime - eager for political favours which do not come and fearful of their brutality that they wreak upon all that crosses their gaze. In the recent history of this world not one nation has deigned stand up for itself, for civilisation and for the common decency of man against these petty thugs and primitive barbarians. The Empires and Dominions of earth have thrown their crowns down before this barbaric state in fear of a threat perceived as much as realised.

"Upon this day the 7th of September, the Crown and the Empire has been assaulted. We, the civilised, the champions of democracy, shall not surrender to the Freekan jackboot. It is the resolve of His Majesty's Government - every man and woman therein - to fight this threat to the last. The steel sentinels of the Imperial navy stand against any vessel which dares fly the colours of Automagfreek and I am in no doubt that within a year Freekan shipping shall be swept from the waves which they despoil with their very presence.

"The will of this people is mighty, and I know in my heart that no true Praetonian shall ever bow before a foreign power. With the Soviet Socialist Union of Hogsweat and the Incorporated States of Sarzonia standing alongside us, we command the most powerful and menacing naval armada ever to grace the face of the earth. We command the most professional army and the most dedicated airforce ever associated with our nation. I am left with no doubt that, though in the darkest winter nights fear may enter our hearts, dawn shall never cease to throw its golden rays upon the Aquila in front of which we stand, not shall our will ever be broken or our hopes turned to despair."

The crowds cheered, flags waved, troops through their shakos into the air to catch them again as they floated back down to earth and the twenty four mighty guns that circled the Tower of Parliament, usually used for as mundane task as marking the passage of time, began to boom out over the city. For the Empire was going to war.

I find it quite interesting how the government of Praetonia attempts to spin the facts in their favor. For those that cannot grasp this concept, allow me to go over the timeline yet again.

Automagfreek expands territorial waters:

Lord Damien saw fit to expand our waters not only for commercial reasons, but defensive reasons as well. Automagfreek has signed no treaty, document, accord, attended no convention, summit, meeting or get-together that could, would, or should limit the amount of water we can claim. AMF was well within its rights.

The world reacts strongly, threatening blockade and sanctions:

Why? Automagfreek showed no hostility, issued no declaration of war, encroached on no shipping lines, violated no territorial claims, and engaged no neutral force. The Caryia Islands and Hogsweat's claim to them were kept just outside the minimum limits, therefore no sovereignty was voilated.

Automagfreek mobilizes its military:

It was no secret that Automagfreek was about to engage in warfare. But with whom? I'm afraid that information is classified, but I can tell you that it is a nation that few have heard of, and is not a player in international politics. Automagfreek is well within its rights to declare war on any nation that is a direct threat to our safety, and nations such as Iuthia can vouch for our stability and 'patterns' when it comes to declaring war.

Shots are fired from Cariya on a fleet that showed them no aggression:

The AMF Navy had no choice but to pass the Cariya Islands. They showed no aggression, fired no shots, aimed no weapons, and did not encroach on any Cariya territorial claims or shipping lines. Shots were then fired upon us, and our ships returned fire in self defense. For this Automagfreek has had war declared on itself for returning fire on a hostile target that engaged in a first strike.

War is declared against Automagfreek:

Pray tell me how you and your cronies are justified in warring against our great Empire? What has Automagfreek done wrong in this situation? Nothing. We are not the aggressors, we are not the threat to peace. It is Praetonia that has aggressively engaged in a warfare against our nation, and now seek to blacken our good name.

And now you speak to your people and spin the facts once more. You point to ancient history, the Blood Feud between AMF and Austo Hungary. 'Twas indeed a brutal conflict....because it was BLOOD FEUD. Their bloodline was extinguished for what they had done to the Empire, and since then Blood Feud has not been declared.

In past years Automagfreek has been dormant, peaceful, and has minded its own business. It is only when we become active again and seek to better ourselves that we are attacked in a manner most cowardly. You must know little of the defensive doctrine that Minister Bonesplitter put forth, OUTLAWING the engagement of civilians unless AMF civilians were engaged first.

The fact of the matter is this: non-military, civil engineers were killed in the missile attack against our homeland. Praetonia has broken our doctrine, and therefore has opened Pandora's Box. Lord Dreadfire and his top brass are deliberating wether or not to declare a state of Total War with Praetonia for this...outrage. I hope the citizens of Praetonia understand full well what their government is doing:

1. Committing a first strike attack against the Empire.

2. Using past actions of a previously unreformed administration to justify killing innocent civilians.

3. Lying to its own people and the world in order to gain support against a non-hostile nation that was defending its own interests.

4. Using the fact that Automagfreek is a tribal society to justify large scale warfare against it.

5. Putting itself dangerously close to a state of Total War...possibly even Blood Feud should the Praetonian government and military cross the line again.

I pray that the people of Praetonia listen to the facts, and not what their elected officials tell them is true. The fact of the matter is this: Automagfreek is the just, the righteous, the defender. Praetonia is the aggressor, the unjust, the vile, the liar, the coward.

Therefore I am going to ask for Praetonia's surrender terms immediately. If Praetonia refuses to surrender, they will be brought before the international community for war crimes, and forcing the hand of AMF once more. We do not like wiping whole civilizations off the Earth. We do it because we have to, and the case against Praetonia grows stronger by the minute.

Your forces are floundering, reeling from the minute display of Imperial power on the seas, shores, and air. Should your men creep closer into the land that could only be described as Hell itself, you will soon find their impaled bodies swaying in the warm St. Freeksburg breeze, 25 feet in the air.

The ultimatum has been issued, and you have been given more than enough chances to 'do the right thing'. The world is watching, Praetonia. Do not make the wrong decision, because wether you realize it or not, it may very well be your last.

http://www.sideshowtoy.com/images/gold/thumb/3401.gif
Minister Hartman
-Minister of Foreign Affairs-

Mindless prats, when will they quit with the mud slinging and get down to the fighting? Dreadfire scowled as he read Hartman's reply trashing the Prime Minister of Praetonia. For weeks...weeks now they have sat at sea. In that time they have only advanced once, only to be driven back to Cariya. Fucking cowards.

Word had then been sent to Camp Rock military base for a small wing of B-2 bombers to fly at maximum altitude and strike the Praetonian fleets at night. Though a risky operation, Damien could afford to sacrifice a few bombers if it meant crippling an enemy capital ship. The orders were passed along, but the operation was to be held off until the next evening when the skies would be very cloudy.

After the long wait, the pilots took to their planes the next day as dusk began to fall. Their numbers were small, around a half dozen. They would fly in staggered formations of 2 in order to help cut down on any possible radar signature, and with the low visibility in the air visual contact would be cut down as well. The hours passed and soon the pilots were out over the choppy AMF seas, en route to their targets. Neraly an hour away from the Praetonian convoy, they went into radio silence and began their stealth attack run.

Meanwhile, the engineers completed the work on the coastal guns and promptly left the area. The missle attack had done its share of damage, but that would only coax the heathens closer towards the land. Just as Dreadfire was about to order a massive assault on the Sarzonian fleet that was attempting to outflank his own ships, he received a coded transmission from Toke, Pantera.

Interesting...Pantera and Sarzonia may be coming to terms. This is good, because for the moment their fleet movements should be halted while negotiations are underway. The Sarzonians should know better than to attack my forces with a large Panteran fleet at their heels. Interesting trump card indeed.

Instead of ordering his own warships forward, Damien maintained his distance, sending only his subs a few miles outward. He had also ordered another large fist of subs to swing far east of Gholgoth and take up position deep in international waters...directly behind the Hogsweatian and Praetonian fleets. The idea was not to strike from behind, but to lie in wait on the bottom and attack the supply lines. Soon the underwater convoy took off, and soon they would exit Gholgothan territory.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/msarzo/GreatSeal.jpg
Official Statement, Incorporated Sarzonian Government

We are once again unimpressed with the whining on the part of the Automagfreek government in light of the recent attack on what is clearly a military target during a time of war. We are geniunely bored at your continual blatant attempts to paint Praetonia as the aggressors when you have committed far worse atrocities than the ones you accuse the Praetonians of.

You, Damien Dreadfire are a man without honour. You are a man who claims to be all powerful and it is obvious to anyone with half a brain that you cower like a small child when anyone has the audacity to take war directly to your shores.

You amuse me with your declarations that Praetonians attacked innocent civilians when you have demonstrated willful disregard of "innocent" civilians throughout your history in power. The attack on Freed ordnance and military assets is a perfectly legitimate attack and one that shows that Praetonians do not bow down to your brand of intimidation.

I personally hope to see the "mighty" Freek empire crumble under the feet of my allies, regardless of the outcome of negotiations between Sarzonia and Pantera. It will be your turn to sleep in the very fire in which you have burned much of humanity. It will be a great day for humanity when that happens.

Mike Sarzo
President
Incorporated States of Sarzonia

~From the desk of Lord Damien the Destroyer, Supreme Warlord of the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek~

You amuse me not Mr. Sarzo, and your endless drivel is beginning to bore me.

I find it clever how you accuse me of cowardice when your self proclaimed 'indomitable navies' are sitting on the borders of my waters scared. The Hogsweatians have felt but a taste of the wrath I can bring down, and their 'mighty' ships have tucked tail and retreated to Cariya.

Here I sit, eager for the forces of your 'coalition' to touch down on my shores, but for weeks now you have done nothing. An open invitation I have given you to land on the beaches of Automagfreek, and you have done....nothing.

Do not speak to me of cowardice Mr. Sarzo, because behind the 'tough guy' act you attempt to play, you are terrified. Yes, terrified beyond the capacity to describe it...I have sensed it. Sarzonians are not as dumb as some of the other cretins I have purged from this realm, and therefore fear is coursing through your veins. You would be foolish to not be afraid of what lies in wait for you.

So once more I place the offer upon the table. Saddle up and come to Automagfreek, where we have been waiting for you. I do not need to prove to any man that I can storm the beaches of any nation, I have proven that time and time again. Now is your chance to prove that my beaches can be stormed.

Come Mr. Sarzo, we are waiting.

http://img193.exs.cx/img193/9893/dreadfireflames4fw.jpg
---Damien the Destroyer---
-Supreme Warlord of AMF-

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/iuthia.jpg

Official Statement, Iuthian Diplomatic Corps

War... I suppose it was naive of us to expect this situation to have been solved diplomatically; we have long been aware that the Soviet Socialist Union of Hogsweat isn't prepared to negotiate in order to avoid such a conflict; so prepared they are to send their people to their blood demise. The Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek too, we have none full well that their negotiations are basically little more then military strength, threats and demands; rarely will they step down from a challenge to their might...

But what surprises us, what really surprises us, is that civilised nations such as the 'Democratic Imperium' of Praetonia and the Incorporated States of Sarzonia are so prepared to simply skip any attempt of diplomacy, or even decency... we've long been aware of the so called "attrocities" of Automagfreek, many of which reside in their history and most of which you would have to go back a long, long way to find them done in the accused "imperialistic intentions"... tribal society though they are, they have a strange sense of honor that, if understood, can be dealt with.

The basic facts remain; as far as we are aware Hogsweatian (sp) forces fired first on Automagfreek forces... alone it doesn't entirely justify Dreadfires responce, but the fact remains that they declared war first. One cannot expect them to ignore such a declaration, history teaches us of Automagfreek's way of thinking, recent history proves that they are a force of retaliation, they don't seek trouble as trouble finds them.

But we digress, this isn't our war. We're not allied to either side, though if we were allied to Hogsweat we would only help them if they were prepared to fix their mistakes... but no, our place in this is to watch and revaluat our relations with the nations involved.

Odd how the 'Democratic Imperium' of Praetonia and the Incorporated States of Sarzonia justify joining the fray... one might almost suspect that they are jumping on an oportunity, their words suggest that they are disgusted by Automagfreeks history, while at the same time justifying such aggression against the Freeks simply because it is them. Funny how that works... even the Territory of Holy panooly, a nation that has hated the Freeks for so, so long, has actually sided with them perhaps in disgust at the turn of events.

Reguardless, we will simply watch... perhaps our views are too hasty, formed from the actions we have seen, remembered and heard about. So we will observe from a distance and concider our relations with civilised nations after the conflict... if they are still civilised that is.

Foriegn Minister Mick Lakely, Iuthia Diplomatic Corps

(Last time we heard, Mick is still wanted by the Hogsweatian government for "Treason", "Contradition of the State", "Perversion of Socialism" and "Inciting Anti-Government Emotions". The penalty of these four of the five most serious crimes in Hogsweat is for Mick to be hung, shot, drawn, quartered and then fed to hungry hogs...)

Secretariat of War - Press Release

Dear Interested Parties,

I am aware that certain regimes have expressed discomfort at the action of Praetonia and her forces abroad and from what I have heard and read these concerns stem mostly from ignorance of the true situation combined with confused spread by the aggrevious government of Automagfreek. I wish to make it plain, however, that it is not the position of my Government to continue to argue the points expressed in this release any further. It is the perview of each individual and each government to look over the facts as they stand, the prior records of the nations concerned and the situation as seen from both points of view and then make their own decisions on the correctness or otherwise of our position. Regardless of said moral justification, war is now upon us whether we want it or not and we shall not waive or falter from our cause of defending our Empire to the last man.

The first and most important concern I wish to address is that of the missile attacks against 'civilian contractors' working on Automnagfreek Naval Guns. Under the universally agreed 'rules of war', military targets are legitimate and may be attacked. Anyone who repairs, maintains or otherwise directly contributes to the destruction of Praetonian or allied shipping whilst in a combat zone is considered, quite rightly, a combatant and will be fired upon regardless of his or her uniform. I also wish to point out at this juncture that anyone capable of repairing and maintaining an ultra modern shore battery is clearly not unassociated with the military, and has clearly trained for such work before hand. I do not know why my military forces did not continue to harry the engineers further but I have personally ordered an investigation into this. The investigation may, however, take some time to report (the war, such as it is, is only a few days old afterall). Automagfreek, however, has demonstrably committed genocide when faced with a nation which was no threat to them and did little more than insult their neurotic leadership. Thought they may call it by whatever other name they want - it does not change their odious, despicable and barbaric actions.

The second point raised is that of the Hogsweatian Cariya Islands and the 'legality' (if such a thing exists) of Automagfreek attacks upon the islands. They will claim that they were fired on first. Now this is true, however Hogsweat was not the first to commit an act of war. Automagfreek had previously exended her territorial waters to include most of the waters claimed by Hogsweat in the direction of Automagfreek from the Cariya Island. When a large number of Automagfreek vessels moved towards said islands, the Hogsweatians had little choice and were forced to fire (despite holding the fire following the previous Automagfreek incursions into their waters). We, as their allies, seeing the situation satisfactorily resolved, were prepared to leave the situation at that, but when the Automagfreek fleet fired and then doubled back (removing any possible credance in their argument that they were merely 'going to attack someone else') we were honour bound to enter the free and return fire immediately.

Now, I would ordinarily find it strange that a nation such as Iuthia would support and even agree with the idiot arguments of a murderous dictatorship which most of the time does little except battle within itself and carry out pointless maritime expansions, but I suspect that when the chips are down dictatorships will band together, even if the company which Iuthia has chosen to keep this time is... 'interesting'. I also find it bizarre that the Iuthian spokesman continued to surround "Democratic Imperium" with inverted commas. We are both democratic, and an Imperium, are we not? Nonetheless, we have no real interest in the opinion of the Iuthian Government, or indeed most dictatorships, and we find it sad and pathetic that not one nation is willing to express independent thought concerning Automagfreek save our own and our allies.

Yours,

Sir Thomas Moore,
Secretary of War

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/iuthia.jpg

Official Statement, Iuthian Diplomatic Corps

Then I won't halt this aggression any futher then, as I stated it is our intention to watch and watch we will. However, we may as well retort as clearly Sir Thomas Moore, Secretary of War doesn't care about our nations views and has expressed such in no less then 600 carefully chosen words.

Firstly, we do not recognise the Hogsweatian outpost which had been so closely built near Automagfreek territory, possibly as a staging area for future conflicts, in light of their actions we can only assume that this was possibly the case... reguardless we are certain that the first act of war was made by Hogsweat and thus supporting them in such a war supports their aggression.

Secondly, the fact that civilised nations we have seen eye to eye with are supporting this aggression in order to stop "Automafreek's Aggression" and seemingly Hogsweat hasn't been willing to resovle this in anything but military conflict, firing upon Automagfreek ship start a war, a war you support in the name of defending an ally that has started a war with another nation over nothing... lets face it, no one informed Automagfreek that those islands were occupied, they didn't exist on their maps until they literally sailed into those waters and were fired upon. This is the fault of the Hogsweatian government.

Reguardless of whether you respect our views or not, while we respect your 'heroism' in this matter, we feel that it's wrongly placed and will only result in the deaths of thousands of men over what is basically a stupid incident which should have been solved a long time ago diplomatically; either that or Hogsweat's hidden island should have been decimated.

Thanks for not-caring,

Foriegn Minister Mick Lakely, Iuthian Diplomatic Corps

(See OOC comments in a little while once I've had my tea)

[OOC: Yes, I do believe that mick lakely won that award. My god, that was a LONG time ago. That's been bumped to four, IIRC, since DAVE died. Here's a linky (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v224/HogsweatNS/PLAQUE.jpg)]

Secure Statement

The Hogsweatian Soviet Union is fully righteous in it's actions, especially our engagement of Freek vessels around and at the Cariya Islands. We must especially focus on how the Hogsweatian Soviet Republic of the Cariya Islands were attacked first, under no circumstances except for the warmongering nature of Automagfreek. A missile strike was ordered and made by the heroic Station Lieutenant of the Cariya Islands when he came under fire by Freek aircraft, ballistic submarines, and superdreadnoughts. His bravery and coolness under fire from impossible odds will go down in history as a Hogsweatian Victory.

We must also stress that while Automagfreek whines about Civilian Casualties, and publishes propaganda to falsely persuade it's citizens, the first Civilian casualties were on the Hogsweatian side, with a confirmed 402 deaths, including women and children, none of whom where trained in the military (with the exception of compulsory training) or who were employed by the military, by Freek bombardment. The deaths of over 400 civilians has greatly angered our nation and it's people and we lust for vengeance for the dead that day - those who did not manage to fullfill their dreams before they were extuingished in the fires and explosions caused by Freek Military Forces.

You can call us whatever you like, we have stated before that laugh away the opinions of the Iuthian Fascists who have proved before in the past to be a constant political thorn in our side. Your heartless and spineless notions of surrender and negotiation with an enemy who clearly has no intentions of returning the favour, should we waste our time with diplomatic chatter show disgusting amounts of timewasting bearucracy. The outcome of the actions at Cariya can mean only one thing: War. We will not relent until the last Freek is dead under the boots of our victorious and glorious soldiers. We will not back down until we dominate the oceans surrounding Automagfreek. We will not think of peace until our aircraft fly patrols over ULE city. We will not bargain or negotiate with the Freek dogs until they are begging at our knees.

You have all seen the actions of Automagfreek before. You have all seen and heard the deaths of millions of innocent civilians under the eyes of the evil sentinels and the heartless Damien Dreadfire himself - And now you lay witness to the final battle that will change the world as we know it. You can watch and think as our soldiers charge into battle, our planes streaming over head and our ships clash with the inferior navy of Automagfreek - and you will realise once and for all that we are not a nation that is messed around. We are not a nation that bows down to anyone. The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics of Hogsweat will defeat the fascist foe on it's own ground, whatever the cost in materiel, money, or personnel. No Surrender, no Negotiation, no Ceasefire.

Victory to the Union!
Supreme Ruler of the Soviet Union,
Approver of the House of Commons
Leader of our Military
Inspirer of the Workers,
Comrade in Premier Alissa Maykov

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/msarzo/GreatSeal.jpg
Official Statement
Incorporated Sarzonian Government

Wow Damien. I didn't realise you had a sense of humour in those barbaric bones in your freakazoid body. You dare call the Incorporated States of Sarzonia cowards because we have a little bit of healthy fear? Perhaps you missed the memo, but the definition of courage is not the absence of fear. It's the ability to overcome those fears. Frankly, I'm not surprised you didn't learn that in that collection of broken down hovels that serve as your poor excuse of an education system.

As for you, Mr. Lackley, we are involved in this war due to a naked act of aggression against the Sarzonian people by the Free Lands of Pantera. The record shows that Pantera formally declared a state of war between itself and Sarzonia. But, frankly, I'm not surprised. You seem to be most willing to shove the pretences of diplomacy aside in your eagerness to get in one more potshot at the Democratic Imperium of Praetonia. No matter.

Unless you have some concrete suggestions for peace negotiations that can save the lives of countless millions of people on both sides of this war, I'd suggest you not waste your time or mine. And I suggest you keep your childish vendetta against Praetonia to yourself.

Mike Sarzo
President
Incorporated States of Sarzonia

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/iuthia.jpg

Official Statement, Iuthian Diplomatic Corps

I imagine it took some time to come up with such a witty retort, Mr. Sarzo, of course, if one were to look at the facts one would find that for the most part Iuthia has actually agreed with the government of Praetonia on many different situations involving other nations, the fact that we currently disagree with their actions against the Freeks is our personally obersation of the incident at hand... I feel we've shown a great deal more individuality then the "follow our allies no matter the situation" you and your government seem to have taken.

Want our suggestion as to the diplomatic means on how this may have been resolved? Advise the government of Hogsweat to disband their island/staging point and defend them providing they agree to do so, failing that simply don't support their aggression. The fact is that they fired first protecting land they didn't declare until the Freeks advanced, I don't know about you, but our government wouldn't accept such a claim done at the very last moment... but I'm sure this is moot point, perhaps you knew of this land before now, I know we certainly didn't. But I digress from the point, we wouldn't support our allies if they were to do such things and we would advise them to do the smart thing, in which we would help... if they aren't up for that then they clearly aren't willing to solve the problem.

Which is the issue here... Hogsweat isn't looking for peace and isn't prepared to do what is needed to save it's people. You can save your people while no longer associating yourselves with a nation that steals land in such a manner.

That is our advise, I'm sure you will continue to mock, but regardless, that is the truth.

Foriegn Minister Mick Lakely, Iuthian Diplomatic Corps

IFS Barracuda
Freek territorial waters near the Cariya Islands

The sub had been sitting idly on the bottom of the sea, venturing to the top only when they needed fresh air. The Captain on board, a grizzled old man by the name of Joseph Sunstone, was growing impatient. He was known for openly griping in front of the crew about Lord Dreadfire's decision to play a more defensive role in the war against Hogsweat and Praetonia. He cursed his commander for (in his mind) losing his nerve and not charging headfirst into the flames like the Damien of old.

Four days now. For four days we have sat here and done nothing while the fleets of our enemies wait on our doorstep. This is an outrage! The world is laughing at us as we speak! Sunstone's crew looked at him with bewilderment, not sure wether or not to share his enthusiasm or condemn his treasonous words. Sunstone and his crew had sailed together for nearly 3 years, and they respected their captain and trusted his judgement.

That night, the captain summoned his crew for an emergency meeting. Cigar smoke clouded the briefing room as the withering Sunstone stood with his back to his men. Slowly he turned around, a look on his face that could only spell trouble.

Men, I have thought long and hard about this situation, this whole war. I believe that we are going about things all wrong. The Empire is losing its reputation of ferocity, and 'Lord' Damien's...pathetic judgement has left us vulnerable. He should have attacked the Cariya Islands immediately and destroyed the enemy foothold near our waters instead of showboating and daring them to land on our soil....our home. For this he has lost all of my respect and loyalty, but my allegiance still lies with our Empire and its people.

Therefore, we will take matters into our own hands to defend the future of our communities. On board this submarine are ballistic missiles...

The crew suddenly became very hushed, not even the sound of breathing could be heard.

...and I intend to use them in the name of The Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek and its people, to defend our country and our way of life. Our Warchief has proven himself incapable of protecting our lands and our people, and by sitting back and doing nothing when we have the means to end the war in one swift stroke, we are just as bad as Dreadfire.

You men know I would never steer us wrong, I would never do anything to put our lives or the well being of our Empire in harms way. I ask you to stand by me now as you always have, and perhaps our leaders will one day thank us when the heathens retreat from our waters.

A lone voice spoke out from the crowd, and it was that of Sunstone's first mate. Sir....when do you want to strike Cariya?

The old man looked across the sea of faces in front of him before turning to the young officer. At once.

Within minutes the sub rose from the sea floor to a suitable depth, and from there the silo doors opened. Like great leviathans the ballistic missiles lurched from their tubes and shot towards the surface, taking to the skies moments later. Surely the defenders of Cariya would not expect an attack from this far out at sea, and the powerful engines on the missiles gave them unholy speed as they tore through the atmosphere, then back down from the heavens. It would only be mere minutes now before the islands would be consumed in hellfire and brimstone.

May the Gods watch over us, and bless us all. For the glory of the Empire!

"Comrade, outer ASW scans read a submarine, probably a boomer, she's rising! -"

The Ship's captain of the ship PSN Enraged, a destroyer on ASW scans otuside the fleet, leant over the console as he glanced over the SONAR reads.

"Hold on a minute Comrade - what's that? it's stopped.."
The Ensign traced the Submarine's SONAR pings with his finger.

"Alright. Arms, prime me the Aswims and get a lock on that boat. Fire at will.. Hold on, wait a minute- SHIT!"

The crew of the Enraged watched helplessly as the ballistic missiles flew into the air, bubbles rippling behind on the ocean surface as they left their VLS silos and sped towards Cariya Islands, arking down leaving a wake of whishing air behind them. The crew of the DD could do nothing as the missiles hit home, wasting all life on Cariya. The entire two islands where covered in flame and waste, all life on the island snuffed out in one second by several nuclear detonations. More importantly, the Helicopter Carrier [LPH] that was carrying civilians off Cariya was hit in the blasts, rocking fiercely as the artificial waves smashed it to pieces, it's bow snapping in half. As the 200 metre ship struggled to control itself, the hull also snapped in half. Noone dared jump off the ship for the chemicals and nuclear waste littering the oceans below would surely send them to a more horrible death than they could imagine. Several helicopters took off briefly, packed with escapees, as the ship was torn asunder in the next explosion. It dragged itself under water, the last of the grey hull dissapearing slowly under the polluted waters as almost a tenth of the original civilians escaped. The rest, mostly men and older teenagers sacrificed them for the rest of the group to escape. Over three hundred and fifty damned souls descended into the greeny murky waters, their oxygen supplies inside the now completely submersed ship running slowly out. Soon they would die of asphyxiation, a slow and painful death.

One of many this war would create.

In anger, watching the LPH slowly slip underneath, the Captain slammed his fist down on the Control Console.

"ARMS, Fire all Aswims now! Remove those safeties, take that son of a bitch down! Well what are you waiting for! DO IT, FOR THE MOTHERLAND!"

The Arms Sailor was happy to comply, flipping switches and pressing buttons as the aft tube anti submarine missile launcher let off it's deadly load at the Freek submarine that had destroyed the Cariya Islands with it's deadly payload.

"My god..what have we done?" The Captain looked down at the metal grating floor of the bridge, wires slipping through the small panel holes. "A moment of silence, Comrades, for those brave children, women, and men who died with their lives on the line for our glorious Motherland."

The bridge lay silent. Even the tapping of keyboards ceased within milliseconds.

You have GOT to he shitting me.... Dreadfire smashed his hand into the steel wall inside the command tower on board the Mouth for War. The submarine was not responding to nearly three dozen transmissions, and Damien knew that he would have to get a handle on the situation immediately. Though in combat he had very little honor, it was downright cowardly in his book to use such weapons. War was supposed to be a glorious blood sport, with the victor trouncing his foes in man on man combat. There was was no honor in this.

I want a sub task force sent out after Sunstone.I want destroyers on the sea and I want anti-sub planes in the air. I want this fucker nailed to the wall!

He stopped himself and corrected his order. No, that just won't do. Our enemies will think that this attack was sanctioned by myself...an example must be made of Sunstone. I want him....ALIVE.

~From the desk of Lord Damien the Destroyer, Supreme Warlord of the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek~

I regret to inform the world that today we have witnessed the unthinkable. The Freek sub, IFS Barracuda, has gone rogue and launched several nuclear missiles at the Cariya Islands. While we do not know the extent of the damage, the situation is worsened by the fact that the commander, Captain Aeomer Sunstone, has several more ballistic missiles under his control. All attempts to raise him via radio have failed, and they have turned off all tracking equipment.

Automagfreek denounces this attack to the highest extent, and assures the world that we would never use such coward's weapons in a first strike manner. There is honor to be found in blood combat, but this is surely the act of a madman....a sniveling cowardly dog.

I have ordered a task force under white flags of true to hunt down the rogue submarine. All Hogsweatian, Praetonian, Sarzonian, and Ghologhan assets are being alerted of this threat. We ask for cooperation in hunting down Captain Sunstone and bringing him to the surface alive and intact, where he will then stand trail. I will then determine what level of Puritania he will suffer, but before he dies his entire bloodline will be extinguished, a lesson to any of my Warchiefs and Commanders what the cost of treachery is.

I offer my personal condolences to those that lost their lives the coward's attack. I can assure the rest of the world that this incident will not soon be forgotten, and I will not rest until Sunstone is in my grasp.

http://img193.exs.cx/img193/9893/dreadfireflames4fw.jpg
---Damien the Destroyer---
-Supreme Warlord of AMF-

Goughan waited impatiently for word from the Praetonians or from his government about the massive assault he wanted to launch against Freek assets, but he got word that the President himself ordered the fleets to stand by.

"Admiral? Why don't we crush those bastards now?"

"We're being informed that the President is negotiating a cease fire with the Lord Reaver."

"The Lord Reaver?"

"Yes, Evenstar himself." The first lieutenant still had a momentary look of confusion on his face, but put two and two together after a few seconds. The two national leaders, one the lord and master of the largest and arguably the most powerful Gholgoth nation and one the president of one of a much smaller Allied nation were discussing a peace treaty.

The Incorporated Sarzonian Government was extremely tight-lipped about the status of talks, but that only fueled the rumour mills throughout the military. Seemingly half a world away, the smoke still rose from Sarzonian and Panteran positions damaged and destroyed by a fierce round of fighting that gave Pantera a bloody toenail hold on Branwynian territory. The 30 inch guns of the DontPissUsOff and the smaller, but still impressive guns of the smaller capital ships were still trained in the event peace talks broke off.

"Helm, bring us about, 210 degrees. Sixteen knots."

"Aye, sir."

Goughan sat in the command chair and rested his chin on his right fist. Even as a three star admiral, he didn't know anything more than the average crewman. Not even the top brass in Saugerties knew anything. Sarzo was keeping a tight lid on everything.

"Admiral, we're vulnerable to a Freek attack right now," an ensign said as he entered the bridge.

"I'm well aware of that," Goughan said. "Obviously, the Freeks know something we don't about this treaty."

Two hours later, Goughan had left the bridge and went to the officer's stateroom to eat a meal. He had a cup of bland chicken soup, feeling that he couldn't take anything stronger than that with the tensions of war at a fever pitch and then the letdown of not being able to use the fight-or-flight impulse that coarsed through his veins.

"Bridge to Admiral Goughan," the intercom blared as Goughan stared at his half eaten soup.

Damn, Goughan thought. "What is it?"

"Sir, we're getting reports of a ballistic missile attack against the Grand Cariya Island!"

"Fuck," Goughan whispered. "Inform the fleet. Full speed retreat. I'm on my way."

Goughan left his soup sitting on the table in his stateroom as he ran toward the bridge. When he reached the bridge, he watched bitterly as the mushroom cloud ascended into the sky.

"Analysis?"

"The attack came from these coordinates. I can't confirm the location, but it's believed to be," the lieutenant said before Goughan interrupted.

"Automagfreek," he said with a firm voice that only hinted at the smouldering anger building up inside him.

Now our Goddamn pansy government is pulling us out of this war when we have a chance to rid the world of these insane fuckers? Who died and made Neville Chamberlain our President, Goughan thought glumly. We had a chance to do something and seriously weaken their war effort. And what do we do? Turn tail and run like scared puppies.

"Any orders, sir?"

"Well, we don't have much choice, do we? Stand by."

"Quite frankly Damien, I'm starting to truly wonder at how worthy you are to the name you seem to claim. "Damien the Destroyer", if I had heard for the first time would force me to imagine some character I need to actually fear, or at least respect to some extent. It gives me the picture of a cold-hearted warrior, willing to rape, maim, and murder at any given desire. And for such a man to "offer his condolences to the dead"... bah. How pathetic! You know as well as I do, the name of Automagfreek has become nothing more than a joke, and we both also know that you seek to revive the fear it once struck in the hearts of grown men. I suggest you give up now, because Damien, you've grown soft. Now in this conflict, I only see a man trying to spew his propaganda for actual care of the outsider's opinion; and a General fearful to actually strike against his foes, of whom he is so sure he can defeat. But I see fear, and cowardice in you.

If you're going to lay claim to such a name as "The Destroyer", why dont you do the fucking job? Otherwise, crawl back under the rock you crawled from and let someone more competent take over. This I tell you now, Damien (the Incompetent)."

- From, an Unknown Source Within the Union.

Such big words from " an Unknown Source Within the Union". What's the matter, too afraid to reveal your identity?

Lord Dreadfire has received unusual criticism for his tactics in this war. Perhaps if you understood such things as tactics, you would realize what we are doing in this war. So far our enemies have yet to make their move, warded of by a series of light missile and artillery strikes. Perhaps it is them you should be calling cowards?

Secondly, the nuclear strike against Cariya has angered every Freek in the country, none more so than Damien himself. Automagfreek has an age old policy of never engaging in first strike nuclear warfare, and this is indeed a dark day.

But in the end, I suggest you do as everyone else is doing: either put up or shut up. There is no doubt that the Empire will emerge victorious....should our enemies ever gain the courage to attempt a landing.

Dreadfire is not stupid, and although the army, navy, and air force of Automagfreek is arguably one of the best in the world, we are not stupid. We understand the concept of collateral damage, and charging headlong up against a semi-worthy foe is foolish. But I will speak no more of this, once the dust settles you and the rest of the world will see once and for all that we are a force to be feared.



http://www.sideshowtoy.com/images/gold/thumb/3401.gif
Minister Hartman
-Minister of Foreign Affairs-

Admiral Jenkins stood on the bridge of the carrier, nearly in shock as to the news of the nuclear attack on the Cariya Islands, before looking towards his communications officer, "Anything from CentCom?"

"Yes Sir, they want us to stand down from offensive actions, but keep alert in case the enemy tries anything," said the lieutenant, "They want us to keep our aircraft up to make sure the Army Airborne units get to Automagfreek and then disengage from the Hogsweat fighters."

"Make it so, until we get the word to do otherwise, we watch out for our own people," ordered Jenkins.

"Aye aye, Sir."

*****

Private Stills looked outside the porthole in the C-17, he was terrified after watching one of the other transports taking a missile to the tail section and just falling out of the sky, but he felt relieved that he could also see the shoreline of Automagfreek as the fleet of Globemasters started to drop in altitude as the Navy fighters broke off and made their way back to their respective carriers.

"We're under the Freek SAM umbrella now!" shouted someone over the engines, "We're good until we get called into the fight!" The collective relief of the paratroopers was felt along with that of Stills.

OOC: If you dont want me to post here, then just give the word. I guess I'm using this give some perspective on how one portion of the world might see and understand this war. Brings something new to the table anyway, IMO.

"Quite an arguement you have there, I can give you that. But then I then wonder, why doesnt Damien choose to lay claim to a name such as... Damien the Intellectual? Or Damian the Tactician? "Damien the Destroyer" hardly exists, at least at present, in a day when he faces enemy 'almost' greater than he. He has a lot to prove, now that he calls himself such. In the meantime, let me leave you with a quote I remember hearing one day; something I find rather fitting. Pass it onto Damien for me, would you?

'He who strives the most for power or strength, seldom has it.'

Some food for thought, perhaps?"

- Rob Bolten, Political Commentator Within the Union ~ Formerly Unknown

The Barracuda had dodged the bullet. Somehow the sub managed to slip past both Freek and Hogsweatian forces, and was now in open waters. The attack convoy under white flag of truce continued its search for the rogue vessel, worried that Sunstone may launch more nuclear weapons. Against what targets, domestic or foreign, they did not know.

Word has not been given as to the extent of the damaged caused to the enemy fleets. Knowing that a decent sized force of ships was stationed near Cariya, it was speculated that damage would range from moderate to severe, either cooked to a crisp by the fire of left dead in the water from EMP. But nobody was sure. Satellite intel provided little proof as to the extent of the damage.

Meanwhile, plans were being made on board the Mouth for War for the dual invasion of Hogsweat, but more importantly, Praetonia. Knowing that Pantera would probably not be able to join in the bloodbath, Damien would go it alone (or at least leave the bulk of the fighting up to himself). No more games, I grow impatient. These cowards will sit at sea as long as it takes, in an attempt to bore me to death.

Dreadfire was beginning to lose patience, regularly venting his anger upon his crew. Contact our forces abroad, I know we have several smaller fleets stationed at our....recently purchased territory. Get them on the horn and tell them to ship out. They will be needed.

********************
OOC: A small bump, more or less.

The Admiralty, Praeton[

"It is my firm belief that this is the best solution open to us, and the only way that we can be assured of victory in this war. In the past, we have fought wars where he have total naval and air superiority, but this time hard battles must be fought, and we must be the ones to win them. If we are to defend our Empire, we have no other choice," the Duke declared. The other members of the Admiralty Council frowned.

"So we are to do nothing?" Asked a Council member sullenly. He was the youngest of the group at just 47. Some time before, he had commanded a small Praetonian force which, acting with an Artitsan force, had destroyed a large proportion of the Nyctoni Navy.

"Not nothing, good sir, not nothing. Goodness no. This war will primarily be fought economically. We must attack their convoys and destroy them. Our economy is almost as strong as theirs, so the battle is very much up in the air. In terms of invasions - we should not attempt it until they are severely weakened. A straight invasion against a strong enemy is suicide. We must bide our time, and when we have forced their navy to battle with all our strength, we can make a move of our own." Several other council members sighed. They could see that it was a sensible strategy, but it would not ensure a quick end to the war.

"How well equipped is the army and navy to fight a ground war?" Asked the only female councillor - Lady Patricia Casca, "If they invade, will they be able to hold without naval support?"

"It depends on so many factors," replied the Duke, "It depends where they land for one, and how well they've capitalised on their naval superiority. I imagine that we shall be able to put up a fight more than adeuqate for the task. My intention, however, is for us never to reach a stage where questions such as that would become anything more than idle discussion."

The Duke scanned the rest of the room. The other Lord Councillors did not raise any further points. Most looked very solemn. It was not the way of a great naval power to avoid battle, but it was what had to be done if they were to have the best chance of winning the war. The Duke cleared his throat, and spoke once more.

"The navay is mobolised and the fleet is put to sea. In the coming months, we will be conducting the greatest naval war that the world has ever seen. I know that I do not have to impress upon any one of you the severity of the task at hand. Every seaman, airman and citizen of Praetonia must know that he must do his duty to the utmost if we are to emerge victorious. God Save the King!" The room echoed.

PWS Carrack, 21st Imperial Merchant Convoy

"Captain on deck!"

"Our helicopters have detected several aircraft on radar. Their signatures dont match any of those of our allies. Do we give fire?" Asked the Duty Officer.

"Range?"

"300km, sir. But they're going to get a lot closer very quickly." The Captain nodded.

"Scrabble all fighters. I want to know how many we have in the air now and how many we can in the air before they enter firing range." The Duty Officer told the Captain their CAP numbers, and then that they could have 90 fighters in the air in the next 30 minutes from various escort carriers.

"Good. Order them to turn around. If they dont reply then prepare to open fire with missiles..." the Captain's voice trailed off. Through the window he could see five Industry Class cargo ships. The closest one, the Revolution, was pumped to the brim with oil. Another with coal, another with tungsten, another with cars and televisions. These vessels had double hulls and probably wouldn't explode, but each one and its cargo was worth at least a hundred million Praefelis. It wasnt even the money so much - but the pride. The cargo container ship was the emblem of Praetonian trade - vast naval behemoths crammed with the wealth of a country - but they suddenly appeared weak and vulnerable.

He glanced past the ragged line of containers and saw a pocket battleship ride up on a wave before crashing down again. He remembered the recruiting posters he had seen on shore leave - "NO SHIP IS LEFT BEHIND!" they proudly declared, "THE MIGHT OF THE IMPERIAL NAVY GUARDS OUR BRAVE BOYS!" The ships depicted on those posters were mere frigates or corvettes, but they instilled a fire of patriotism and pride in his heart. Now, he was looking across the waves from the bridge of a carrier at a vast steel battleship - 11" guns glinting in the sun - and he felt afraid.

PWS Achilles, Flagship - Task Force 2.013

Blind men stooped about in the dark. The power had gone off and the lights had gone out. The flash from the explosion had temporarily blinded most of the men onboard the Praetonian ships, and permanently blinded anyone who was looking at the islands at the time. A telescope a Lieutenant had been using to examine the islands had had its lens melted, and the man was blown right back and killed instantly by the massive overpressure of the explosion.

A roar filled the air. Closer and closer, it approached the carrier. Admiral Portdown's helicopter slowly hovered and then moved vertically down to come to rest on the carrier's deck. The Achilles was far from the islands when the missiles hit, but Portdown was only a mile away. Most of his frigates were heavily damaged or destroyed. The Triumphant was burning. Portdown himself only survived by virtue of the immensely thick bridge armour afforded to the superdreadnaught. Admiral Fletcher had disappeared, and was presumed dead.

Most of the ships had lost power due to the EMP burst. The majority would be back online within a few hours, some had had their nuclear generators' control computers disabled, which caused an automatic shutdown. It would take weeks to restart the engines. Others had had their electronics completely destroyed and would have to be towed back to a friendly port for repairs, which could well take months. Several of the ships were not worth salvaging - close enough to be damaged by the overpressure, had most of their crew killed and were now sinking as those who remained either died from radiation sickness that peeled their skin from their bodies, or were trying desperately to get a helicopter working to escape. Men jumped from conning towers into the icy seas below.

Portdown was visibly shaken. The Captain of the Achilles, in Fletcher's absence, had come down from the bridge to greet the Admiral. He was dressed in an NBC suit and gasmaks, as were the thirty marines who surrounded him and the helicopter. They quickly offered similar protection to Portdown and his staff, but he declined. "Welcome to the Achilles, Admiral," the Captain's voice could be heard to say, despite his voice being distorted by the respirator, "I only wish it could have been in more pleasant circumstances."

Portdown brushed off the niceties, and jumped down from the helicopter. He stumbled, and two marines had to pick him back up. He regained his balance and the marines resumed their positions. "Thankyou, Captain. How many of our ships remain? Does your own have its nuclear missiles armed? I want a retaliatory strike ready within the hour, and every single man you can spare to be assigned to repair the Triumphant, radiation or no."

"Admiral?"

"Do not question me, Captain. The Triumphant burns. If she sinks then within 48 hours we shall be legally bound to initiate a nuclear exchange that will destroy us all. I will see to it that she does not sink, but only with your co-operation. Agreed?"

The Captain nodded his head, and ordered the marine Captain to gather men to send to the Triumphant. "Good. Now will you be so kind as tell me how many of us remain."

"Exact figures are sketchy, Admiral. Most of our systems are down - we only have short range radar and radio. We should have most ship systems back online within a few hours. As far as I am aware, the battleships were far enough away to survive with their structures intact. The escorts were not so lucky. The submarines will retain radio silence until ordered, and I shall not do that whilst the Freeks are still on the prowl."

Portdown nodded. "Anything else, Captain?"

"Just one thing. The Freeks have said they want a truce while they hunt for the submarine. They say that it was a renegade. The Admiral's expression made it perfectly clear what he thought of that."

"Yes of course, Captain. A likely story indeed. Well, we shall accept their truce. We need all the time we can get to repair the Triumphant. Tell them, however, that if they break their truce and we are not allowed time to repair and withdraw our vessels that we shall respond in a similar kind to that which they used to attack us."

Secretariat of War - Press Release

Earlier today Automagfreek strategic forces opened fire upon and destroyed a large number of Praetonian vessels, as well as a larger number of Hogsweatian ships and civilians. The Admiral of Task Force 2.013 is missing and presumed dead. We do not accept, as we have seen no proof, that the Automagfreek Government was not directly involved with this strike. This nation despises the unprovoked use of nuclear weapons in war, and we are disgusted that the Automagfreek Government should stoop to such a massive overreaction.

It is our policy that, should any further attacks on a larger scale be carried out against Praetonian fleet concentrations or superdreadnaughts, we will respond with a strategic strike against all enemy ports and vessels. Should this strike receive reply, a full strategic responce shall be initiated. We shall not accept the destruction of Praetonian vessels from cowardly weapons fired from beyond their range and against which they had no defence or recourse of counter-attack.

We shall, as an honourable people, respect the truce initiated by Automagfreek whilst their 'renegade' submarine is hunted down. Should our forces detect it, it shall be destroyed on sight. I remind Automagfreek that, should Praetonian forces be attacked or destroyed by Automagfreek forces before given a chance to retreat and onder cover of a psuedo-truce, we shall respond in the same manner as that by which they have attacked us. Our thoughts and prayers are with the men and women of the Imperial Praetonian Navy, and the Hogsweatian forces on the Cariya Islands.

God Save the King.

Yours,

Sir Thomas Moore,
Secretary of War

We would like to remind the Praetonian government that this 'truce' only applies to ships on the hunt for the Barracuda, which have been instructed to fly under a white flag. A state of war still exists between our two nations, and therefore combat between non-search and destroy vessels will not be halted. Any ship abusing this will be sunk on sight, and we will not allow treachery whilst Sunstone and his crew are being hunted.

But, Lord Dreadfire has announced that should Hogsweatian or Praetonian vessels find the Barracuda, they may do what they wish with the crew. But Sunstone and his first mate are to be sent back to Automagfreek where they will stand trial.

We are also very disappointed in the Praetonian government for suggesting that this strike was sanctioned by the Automagfreek government. Quite frankly, you people make me sick, suggesting that we would order a nuclear launch as a first strike attack. It blow my mind that.....

Hartman's transmission was cut off sharply. The AMF ballistic missile defense grid had become active, and all outgoing communications were temporarily severed. Ships all across Gholgothan waters watched as another nuclear missile emerged from the water, this time headed towards St. Freeksburg Isle. Within moments interceptor missiles took to the skies, their AI counterparts locked on the missile and moving in for the kill at breakneck speeds. The missile was taken down some 40 miles away from the St. Freeksburg coast, and not long thereafter Freek satellites and anti-sub planes began scouring the area for the Barracuda.

But again the sub had eluded their would be captors. Being one of the newest stealth submarines, the Barracuda was able to disappear amongst the waves with the greatest of ease. The mainbody of the vessel was no different than the standard Supremacy class sub that Automagfreek and many other nations used as their underwater mainstay. Things were now getting serious, and with the war beginning to drag on, Lord Dreadfire decided that perhaps now would be the time to make his move.

"In that case, as we have no way of knowing what is a "Search and Destroy" vessel and what is not, we have no choice but to sink any vessel that comes within 100km of the Camirya Islands. We will not, however, engage ships outside of that range or move anywhere but in retreat, so as long as your vessels keep their distance they will be able to carry out their 'mission'.

As said before, we have no proof that it was not an Automagfreek Government sanctioned mission, and it is hardly farfetched to suggest that a submarine would not, in fact, randomly disobey its orders. It is much, much more likely that a state, annoyed by the continued presence of enemy forces near their territory, would attempt to destroy it and then blame renegades in some kind of pathetic attempt to avoid international censure.

Regardless, those are our terms. If the truce is conisdered fleet wide, then we will accept it, but until that time we have no means of differentiating threats from vessels acting under truce, and so we have no choice but to continue with our stated cause of action. Yet again, Automagfreek demonstrates its disrepect for common decency and then backs it up with a ludicrous truce deal which is not possible to accept."

Meanwhile, crew was being shifted from unsalvageable vessels to the Triumphant, and several battleships were moving in to tow her until her engines could be brought back online. Most of the more important ships were easily salvage, but it was lucky that there were no major naval deployments in the area other than the Triumphant, or the minor defeat could have turned into a disaster.

A series of massive explosions rocked the skyline as vessels, unable to be towed back or abandoned through lack of crew, were blown up. Explosions ripped through their magazines and sent shards of metal surging up into the air, onyl to fall back to the icy cold waves. The Automagfreek forces would not be able to steal their technology, at least.

[OOC: Since I'm awaiting Pantera's response in the negotiations aspect of the Sarz-Panteran war, I'm going to RP this as happening in between rounds of negotiations. If there are any problems with that, feel free to TG me or hit me up on AIM. Thanks.]

During a break in negotiations with the aim toward ending hostilities between Sarzonia and Pantera, Sarzo was reading a briefing on the combat situation from Vice President for Defence John Newman, who had culled together reports from the Sarzonian commanders in the combat theatres. When he read about the destruction of the Cariya Islands, he grimaced, clenching his jaw when he saw Damien's denial of government responsibility.

It took maximum effort for Sarzo to keep from flying into a rage, as First Partner Jay Tyler was no doubt about to remind him that an aggressive move could tear asunder the fragile fabric of peace that was draped over the walls of the Seastone Palace in Toke, Pantera.

Hell of a time for me to be in enemy territory, Sarzo thought grimly. His policy was not to travel to another country to begin negotiations during a state of war, and he had always been especially adamant about not travelling to the lion's den. But in the interest of showing his sudden foe a streak of courage that even he wasn't sure he had, he flew Sarzonia One to Toke against his better judgement. At the personal request of the Panteran ambassador to Sarzonia, he even brought Tyler, his paramour. He wasn't sure what role the Panterans had in mind for his paramour and what dynamics a male partner would bring to the table with the Queen Reaver and the Lord Reaver in attendance. But now wasn't the time to consider such matters.

"Be careful, Mike," Tyler said with a look deep into the troubled eyes of the Sarzonian President. Even though he was only 15 years Sarzo's junior, Tyler still had a youthful air that made him a favourite of Gray House staff. But he also had a wisdom that belied the 32 years of his young life. The three word, four syllable admonition to Sarzo carried a depth that greatly exceeded that of a former Secret Service agent, which Tyler certainly was. But Sarzo's mind was already churning.

"That lying sack of shit Damien claims that he wasn't behind the launch of nuclear weapons against the Cariya Islands," Sarzo said in a low voice barely above a whisper, but plenty loud enough for Tyler to hear him. "He claims the sub went rogue.

"But what if he's right and you send millions of our people to their deaths because you didn't believe him?"

"I remind you this is the same country that completely decimated Austo-Hungary. Damien does not have an honourable bone in his fucking body."

"Mike, you're about to risk completely blowing any chance we have of getting a peace treaty that is pretty damn fair to both sides. Don't let your hatred of Damien consume you into making a disasterous decision. Remember you've got over 3.1 billion people to take care of."

Sarzo sighed. He had to tone down his rhetoric in the interest of peace with Pantera, but he wasn't about to let Automagfreek off the hook.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/msarzo/GreatSeal.jpg
Official Statement, Incorporated Sarzonian Government

We find the denial of responsibility for the unconscionable attacks against the Cariya Islands by the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek to be an affront to the honour of free people everywhere. Damien Dreadfire authorised a barbaric assault that has taken the lives of millions of Hogsweatian citizens and Praetonian subjects and I can not sit, even here in the den of my enemy, and tolerate such an assault. I hereby declare that Lord Damien Dreadfire shall henceforth be known as an Enemy of Peace.

It is fortunate that the Cariya Islands are not a Sarzonian possession. Otherwise, make no mistake, Damien: Our retaliation would have been swift and severe.

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

Sarzo issued the statement, hoping that he hadn't sabotaged the peace talks between Sarzonia and Pantera, especially since he had already developed an action plan for the end of formal hostilities for the Sarzonians. Should Dayne agree to the treaty proposal and Sarzonia's House of Delegates ratify the treaty, Sarzonia would move its fleets from Gholgoth and set sail instead for Havenic waters. Major General Mike Quinn would get an influx of Sarzonia's best troops being sent over from the Sarzonian mainland to Praetonia's shores to defend her allies. And, Sarzonia would downgrade its Defence Condition level from DEFCON 1 to DEFCON 2, a maneuver that would allow it to restore the Constitution, and allow the people of Woodstock to emerge from their bunkers.

The Portland Iron Works was another matter. The company had mostly closed its foreign sales operations, a move that could spell disaster for the Sarzonian economy, but with the end of formal hostilities, some in the Cabinet would argue for the restoration of full sales. However, Sarzo was going to call for maintaining the military buildup. Just because Sarzonia's part in the shooting in Gholgoth was nearing its end didn't mean that Sarzonia's role in the war would end. On the contrary, with Automagfreek, an assault on Praetonia and Hogsweat was all but certain, and when that came, Sarzonia would come out shooting.

OOC: Almost forgot about this. Started it a few posts back.

SkySpear 1 to Eagle's Nest, come in Eagle's Nest. The B2 pilots were informed of the situation, and with night beginning to fall they would be over their now damaged targets soon. What is the status of our mission Eagle's Nest? The chatter over the secure radio quieted for a moment, before the orders Proceed as planned. were given.

While many would claim this to be a cowardly move that exploited the actions of Sunstone, a madman, it was already past the point of no return for the pilots. It was decided that to wait for the Praetonians to repair themselves before continuing battle would be foolish, and the B2's had been sent out before the strike occured. But still, Freek PR was prepared for the inevitable accusations.

A thick cloud of dust and smoke still lingered above the sight where the Cariya Islands housed their navies, and coupled withan overcast sky conditions were less than desirable. But still the pilots proceeded, prepared to drop their heavy bunker busting ordinance onto the enemy vessles. Intelligence had pinpointed several key targets on the ships to aim for, being the ammo magazines, fuel tanks, and command towers. The pilots were orderd to hit the largest and most vital ships to the Praetonian navy, with particular focus on carriers and SD's.

Approaching enemy airspace now, climbing to maximum ceiling. The B2's were in a tight formation, but loose enough so as to mimimize their radar signature. But knowing that the EMP blast had to have taken its toll on the enemy's ability to detect the skies, AMF high command was not concerned. Ammo holds and fuel containers only. Let them Sleep Now In The Fire.

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

I apologize for the communications disruption. It seems our ballistic missile grid came online and shot down an inbound nuclear missile, more likely than not from Sunstone himself.

If the truce is too much for you to handle and if your suspicions are too great, then we will leave it up to our own force and the forces of Hogsweat to hunt down the Barracuda. We have provided Hogsweatian naval commanders with a list of all ships participating in the effort, and so far they have been cooperative in our search.

We are still quite angry at the accusations being thrown at us by your government. Automagfreek will not plead its case any more to you, for we have stated in full truth that we are innocent of this nuclear launch. Perhaps you also think that we launched a ballistic missile at our own mainland just now?

At any rate, if you will not be involved in the search, you will receive no leniency. Your choice has been made.

http://www.sideshowtoy.com/images/gold/thumb/3401.gif
Minister Hartman
-Minister of Foreign Affairs-


Very shortly after Hartman's transmission ceased, the enemy fleets were only a short distance away. SkySpear 1 to Red Knight Squad. All weapons online, keep your bombay doors closed until your target is confirmed. The B2's stealthfully skimmed the night sky at their maximum altitude, their on board computers sighting in their targets on the Praetonian convoy.

Meanwhile, yet another wave of stealth bombers and fighters took to the skies, their numbers much greater this time. From various military bases they screamed off into the night, hoping to reach their targets well before sun up.

OOC: Yes I've gone post crazy. Bored at work.

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

Sarzo is beginning to get on my nerves. His constant yipping is starting to make my ears ring.

Then suddenly an idea dawned upon Damien. Knowing that the enemy would never take his word about the nuking of the Cariya Islands, Damien decided to send a transmission to Pantera, to the attention of the Lord Reaver himself. Dayne would never doubt Dreadfire for a second, and would be a vital bargaining chip as the political fallout began.

~From the desk of Lord Damien the Destroyer, Supreme Warlord of the Excessively Armed Empire of Automagfreek~

Greetings my friend, it seems we have a situation on our hands.

Captain Aeomer Sunstone has gone rogue, firing several nuclear weapons at the Cariya Islands, and mere moments ago firing yet another one at Automagfreek itself. It seems Mr. Sarzo and his ilk do not believe me or my officials when we say that we have nothing to do with this strike.

I have fought alongside your brother through hailstorms of fire and gore. I have bled on enemy battlefields and felt my heart die at Bastien's passing. Dayne, I would never steer your family wrong nor lie to you, and I say to you now that this was a coward's attack, not my own.

So I come to you now with a request, from one Blood Brother to another. Do not agree to any peace proposal between Pantera and Sarzonia without making it perfectly clear to Sarzo that Automagfreek and myself had no hand in the attack on Cariya. Unlike myself, Sarzo respects you and the Reavers, he will believe it only if it comes from you.

Otherwise, I have begun negotiating with the other nations of Gholgoth to take over our supply line management. While our two nations do not rely heavily on imports, we do need to keep our wartime supplies up. Therefore, the Gholgothan countries that are not yet involved will be channeling supplies across Gholgoth proper and dropping them off at our western ports. Fear not, the Sentinels will not allow the enemy to come from the east or the south.

May the Gods continue to watch over us, and may they grant us swift victory over the heathens.

http://img193.exs.cx/img193/9893/dreadfireflames4fw.jpg
---Damien the Destroyer---
-Supreme Warlord of AMF-

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/austar_union.jpg

Official Statement Release: From Anatoba City, Austar Union

"If anything, I find it quite distasteful that President Mike Sarzo would make such bold statements, even without any support of evidence to establish such ideas as true. Assumptions, make a dangerous combination--especially when dealing with a war-time enemy, and also especially when in the process of conducting a treaty agreement with that of Pantera. In the meantime, I find the conduct of the Praetonians to be less than appropriate, given the circumstances. Mr. Dreadfire has made it clear that he would be undertaking this truce (at his own strategic expense), and I have no record of you even asking for some kind of list to work from. Perhaps next time, (if there is a next time), it would much more wise to consider your circumstances first.

Statements and decisions made in the 'heat of the moment' are often foolish. Such decisions are those which lead to ill fate during wartime and battle, and men who want to survive must follow the natural course of strategy, by all means. Some words for the wise, I hope."

Signed With Respect,

- Lord Juno Sanchez
On Behalf of Lord Indigo Blue
The Absolutist State of Austar Union

i dfsgsdf


Knock off the spamming, NOW. If you want to spam, go here: http://forums.jolt.co.uk/forumdisplay.php?f=29

Aboard the ISS DontPissUsOff

Goughan was sitting in his stateroom staring out at the sea as he listened to the transmitter on his desk. With the negotiations continuing between Sarzo and the Lord Reaver, the fleet's status in Gholgoth was in limbo. Until only recently, the transmitter was abuzz with constant war updates and orders issued and countermanded, but now, there was nothing save occasional nervous chatter.

This is all very much like a prize fighter waiting to 'get it on,' and being delayed by the ref, Goughan thought as the transmitter yielded little in the way of real news about the negotiations. For all Goughan knew, Sarzo could have been claimed as a prisoner of war or killed.

He shook his head, trying hard to dismiss that thought from his mind. If the Panterans did that, Sarzonia would erupt, and he knew it. With Nicole Lewis calling the shots, the fleets would probably go in and launch a vicious assault on Automagfreek, Pantera, or Aequatio. Knowing Lewis, she'd probably launch an attack on all three simultaneously. But with the government tight-lipped over the situation, it was up to Goughan to figure out what to make of the events.

He knew the military leaders at the Military Command Centre in Saugerties were deep in the midst of preparations in the war room deep underground. Knowing Vice President Newman, military strategists were planning for every possible outcome. Everything from a total war to fending off a massive invasion was on the table over there, and Goughan sighed when he realised how helpless he felt.

Suddenly, he heard a voice he hadn't heard in years. It was a voice that made his anxiety melt away with the dulcet tones that just oozed calm.

"Admiral Goughan, this is Admiral Patinkin." It wasn't the recently promoted Katie Patinkin, recently ascending to Vice Admiral and the commanding officer of the Tenth Fleet. It was the man who fathered Katie, a man who was a living legend in the minds of Sarzonians everywhere. Even other countries acknowledged this greatest Sarzonian military hero.

"Sir! I thought you retired!"

"I did," Patinkin said. "But I couldn't leave my country's side when she needs me most. I've come out of retirement for my country."

The transmission began a telltale ding that told Goughan the message was now being sent with maximum encryption.

"I have more concrete information for you on the peace negotiations," he began. "This is to be considered ultra top secret. Until the President makes an announcement, none of this is to leave this room. Capisce?"

"Sí," Goughan said.

"Muy bien," Patinkin said without skipping a beat. "According to a well-placed source, Pantera proposed a 'you stay out, we'll stay out' treaty whereby both countries are permitted, nay, expected to defend their allies. That would meet Pantera's apparent real goal of getting us out of Gholgoth," he said.

"So we lost."

"Not quite," Patinkin replied. "As part of the deal, Branwyn earns full independence and the right to determine their fate as a nation. And," Patinkin added, "Pantera has thrown us a bone by offering a major increase in gay rights in their mainland and their territories. That will have an enormous effect on the lives of over 6 billion people."

"That was never on the table as I understand it," Goughan said. "That's little more than symbolism."

"I understand that," Patinkin said. "However, the treaty even permits Sarzonia to claim victory. Even though the result was a stalemate."

"That's, um, surprising," Goughan said. "Now where does that leave us? Setting a course for home?"

"Negative, Tom. If we get approval from the Praetonian and Hogsweatian governments, we're heading to Havenic waters to patrol their territory. We're also sending a theatre over to Praetonia under General Kennedy and Lieutenant General Mike Quinn."

Goughan knew that the newly promoted officers were being sent because of Kennedy's recent successes and Quinn's potential and his sliver of success in Inkana. The two best general Sarzonia had would provide more than capable defence for their allies. Meanwhile, Brady Dent would spearhead the defence of the Sarzonian homeland in the event of an offensive by the Gholgoth powers.

"And who is going to be in charge of the war effort?"

"Tom, you didn't think I'd come out of retirement for my health did you," Patinkin said with a tone that offered some levity to the situation. "I'm being brought back for two reasons. One, the Navy believes that I'll provide a psychological boost if I'm leading the war effort. Two, I'm still the most experienced officer to ever wear a Sarzonian uniform. I may be 74 years old, but just because there's snow on the roof doesn't mean there ain't fire in the furnace."

Goughan laughed. Years of experience leading his men to the brink had given Patinkin a perspective that no other Sarzonian had when it came to war. The Incorporated Sarzonian Navy was one of the world's best units for several reasons, and one of them was Admiral of the Navy Marcus Patinkin.

"Aye, sir," Goughan said.

After they signed off, the normally dour Goughan finally let a smile crack on a face creased with tension. Meanwhile, Patinkin boarded Sarzonia Two at the behest of both Sarzo and Lewis to fly to Praeton under heavy ISAF escort. While in the air, he had the pilot contact the Imperial government of Praetonia.

"This is Admiral of the Incorporated Navy Marcus David Patinkin," he said. "I would like to meet with Secretary of War Sir Thomas Moore, Prime Minister Lucius Agrippa, and/or Imperator Sarius Publius if at all possible. I'm here to discuss the war effort, and Sarzonia's ongoing role in the 'festivities'."

Patinkin didn't know how the Praetonians would take his presence in their country, especially since Sarzonia was on the verge of leaving the side of their closest brethren in a war for their very survival. But there was quite a bit of leeway that the limit of providing logistical support gave the Sarzonians, and they were determined to take full advantage of their opportunities.

OOC: I really don't know waht to post so here we go.

On board the Dreadnought Warspite, young Rating Somerskov was one of four thousand crew members. His station however, was the Mainmast Upper 40mm Cannon Station, to give it's official name. His job was technical maintanence - it was a boring post and he had very little to do along with the eighteen other sailors that occupied his station. Mostly they played poker, and smoked, outside if it was warm. If it was raining they'd go inside and play cards in their bunks instead. There was one television, but it had no signal this far away from home and all they had where a few old war videos which had been watched so many times they didn't even work anymore. They hadn't been in action for a while - most people where quite shocked by the vicious nuclear attack on Cariya. Somerskov had watched as four destroyers and a cruiser where dragged away by a battleship and a group of destroyers. Today however, the weather was alright, so they stayed outside and did a few practice shots before lounging around playing different card games or just snoozing. The only officer on the post, an Ensign in fact, had the only contact with down below- an old dodgy radio.

"Read em and weep" The Ensign, Karaz, slipped out a hand of four aces and a king, much to the astonishment of another player who also had four aces and a king. Before any accusations of cheating could happen, the radio buzzed.

"~~Bridge to Karaz, repeat, Bridge to Karaz, 3rd 40mm Battery Stationm over~~"

Karaz picked it up, motioning his men to be silent before replying.

"Karaz reads, bridge, repeat, Karaz reads, over."

"~~Ensign, the third port waste disposal tube is out of action. Send your technical maintenance up to get it back in order, over.~~"

Karaz sighed. "Affirmative, Bridge. Karaz out." He waved over to the snoozing Somerskov, shouting his name a few times. Somerskov's eyes flitted open and he got up, stretching his arms.

"Somer, get down there" at this point Karaz motioned some fourty metres to the east "And fix the third waste disposal tube."

Somerskov knew the danger of this task. The small walkways leading there had not been used since the ship was made, and they were rusted and very unsafe. He glanced at the Ensign.

"But Ens, I could fall off and -" Somerskov didn't even mention what would happen if he hit the deck from 160 metres.

"Oh just shutup and do it." Karaz waved. "Your toolbox is over there or something."

Somerskov sighed and rolled his eyes before slowly wandering off to find his toolbox. Slinging it around his shoulder with some safety rope, he climbed the treachorous four metre climb down to the second station. That was the only way for the Third Gun Battery to go down, and so with the second. He gave a curt nod to the men in the second battery before edging slowly into the dangerous part. Attaching his safety rope to some notch in the metalwork, he shimmied across the metal catwalk which had holes in it from rust and othersuch things. His first obstacle would be the heat blowers - a huge amount of thermal heat was generated inthis ship and this was the first place it was kicked out. Every fourty seconds they blew a gust of extremely hot water vapour out. The vapour could burn a mans face off..if you were lucky. It would most certainly push you off the edge. Waiting till the vapour next exited, Somerskov looked to the sky. Don't look down, don't look down, don't look down.. he failed. Looking down, a helicopter was taking off, it's spinning blades whirling and making faint blurs. Somerskov felt sick. He almost vomited as the water vapour ventilated itself from the four exit boxes and made him feel like he was in a boiler. As they stopped, he quickly darted across, leaning back against the Warspite's steel hull and wiping some chliched sweat from his brow and set upon his next task. The two-foot wide catwalk curved around into what looked like radar reflective panels. They were in fact, just reflective panels. The waste kept in there would be enough to knock someone out, without the fumes. Somerskov coughed once or twice, and learnt to hold his breath while shimmieing further along the catwalk. Looking up, he could see the giant fans. When they blew, they fiercly ejected the ship's burnt chemical fumes 180 metres from the waterline and upwards, disintegrating it as it either fell or got burned up by something or other or mixed into the sky. Oh god.. he thought as turning the corner he saw a small jump. Only about two foot long he could easily make it..but the very thought disturbed him. Before he could think of his broken body splattered onthe floor of the Warspite's deck, he jumped across, and again, smiling as he knew he had made it without being sick. Yet. Sneaking under another ejection fan, he stopped dead as the electric-magnetic panels that powered this system by electric power sizzled quietly. He closed his eyes and swore. As a technical maintenance man, he knew there was someway to manually turn them all off. The answer lay in a switch that was rusted closed and still had the original wires wrapped around it. Desperately working with the wire, he tore it off and lifted up the button. It demanded a password: he entered "cuxriet" which was the standard password. He cursed as it did nothing. He tried again - "vlrrkw" which didn't work. Then, realising the system probably wasn't configured, he tried "SDN45WARSPITE" which rewarded him with a small zap as the electro magnetic panels powered down. He sneaked across, finally reaching the waste panels. This was there leftover food, peoples excretion, and random other things where stored before being burnt and the smoke leaving the panels. Examining them closely, he realised one had jammed shut as the support had snapped in half and clogged itself. Looking around, he swore extremely loudly, as he realised he had left the toolbox back at the start!
DEYEXJA!!

[OOC: I know it was random and had nothing to do with the storyline but hopefully you enjoyed it.]

"And, by the grace of God, may our Realm be delivered from the gravest of menaces which now encrouaches upon us, and may providence save us from ruin at the hands of those who seek to destroy the very foundations upon which our nation is estbalished. May the Commonwealth unite to face this foe with one voice, and a singular will to smash the enemy wherever he may be found. Such atrocities as these are held back from our towns and countryside by the navy alone and may they, upon whom the safety of this Realm does chiefly depend, be spurred to victory over the foe." The Archbishop's words, aplified by an array of speakers, echoed throughout the deathly silent edifice. Spectators filled the nave and lined the galleries high above. Hundreds of thousands of Praetonians filled the streets outside, held back by tens of thousands of soldiers, to mourn the death of the first Praetonian Admiral to fall in battle for over 75 years.

The ornate state funeral carriage had previously progressed mournfully slowly through the streets of Praeton, drawn by eight jet black plumed horses as dark themselves as their plumage, and mounted upon the carriage of a 64pdr cannon. The Parliamentary yacht - a Peninsular Class Pocket Battleship and the only active warship allowed to dock in Praeton harbour - had fired her 11" guns in salute as the carriage passed by. Praetonians throughout the country had watched the spectacle on giant screens errected on village greens, or on their own televisions in their own houses. Millions of people wore black armbands. The funeral was as much to stir the Praetonian people to new heights of patriotism and anger as it was to mourn the death of a servant of the Crown, but the King himself took great interest in the tragedy - visiting some of the few sailors already evacuated by air in military hospitals.

Despite the very final events in the Praetonian capital, the battle was still far from over and the predicament that Portdown and his remaining ships found themselves in was dire indeed.

"How many ships do we have contact with?"

"All of the battleships, two of the carriers, about seventeen destroyers and a handful of frigates. Most of the ships worst affected by the EMP were most affected by the blast, but most of the EMP damage should be readily repairable and more ships will report in. The Triumphant is beginning to sit rather low in the waterline aswell, Admiral," replied a bridge officer. The battleships were moving to consolidate on the Pocket Superdreadnaught which they would eventually try to tow. Aboard the ship, men were working desperately to pump out large quantities of waters although some compartments had been abandonned to the whims of the sea. With the best luck in the world, they would have a nuclear reactor operational again in a few hours, but they had no idea what damage to the computers the EMP had caused.

"Do we have a comprehensive defence network?"

"We have anti-submarine warfare, sir, from our ownsubmarines, sir. Anti air is limitted except for our fighters currently in the air. Anti ship is also limitted but they're too far away to touch us," the officer replied again. Portdown grimaced. It was an escapable situation, but not an easy situation.

"Sir! CAP is reporting large numbers of enemy bombers. Shall they move to engage?" Shouted a communications officer.

"By God sir," exclaimed Portdown incredulously, "whatever else? Prepare a Raptor aswell. If they get too close we'll blow the blighters clean out of the air." A shiver spread up the man's spine. He managed a timid 'yes sir' before turning back to his station. The Raptor was a nuclear SAM. Portdown would be damned if he'd allow the Freeks to take advantage of their "accident" to completely destroy his fleet.

High up in the air, more than thirty pilots tilted their Sarzonian-built planes upwards so that they could swoop down upon their enemy. A further sixty seven planes, all survivors of the EMP blast by virtue of patrolling too far away to be affected, were converging on their position too. The pilots, blissfully unaware of the destruction that would be unleashed if they failed, began to prepare for long range missile locks. They would fire at the very edge of their range, move closer and fire another volley, then move almost to dogfighting range and fire off a volley of short range missiles before closing to engage with cannon. The pilots were only thankful that there were no enemy fighters launched with the bombers, and they would be too far from the shore to be quickly reinforced once the two forces converged.

A similar scene was being played out across the oceans with a convoy, where Freek planes had appeared litterally out of no where, but this time with a larger wave of planes - sixty in total - and a prepared SAM position in the form of the escorting fleet. In terms of fending off a piece-meal unsupported airborne attack, the escorting fleet should be more than enough to defeat their enemy, but much still remained to be seen.

Meanwhile, back in Praeton the Sarzonian diplomatic plane, escorted now also by the Imperial Praetonian Coastal Defence Flying Corps (IPCDFC - yey for pointlessly complex achronyms), was being ushered to the ground by Praetonian airtraffic controllers. The Sarzonian ministers were greeted by swarms of flag waving, cheering Praetonians, as well as a smaller bu growing minority who were throwing bottles and shouting "traitors" at the Sarzonian delegates. Riot police quickly moved in and pushed them away.

"Welcome to Praetonia, Admiral Patinkin," he indicated a sleek, black car which bore two Sarzonian flags on the bonnet.

[OOC: Sorry for taking so long - Ive been getting a lot of work lately. Anyway, this should answer all the different strands ongoing right now. Sorry for any typos / grammatical / spelling errors... it's midnight right now.]

Patinkin's face turned from merely matter-of-fact with his mission playing on his mind to a decided scowl when he saw the anti-war protesters labelling Sarzonians as traitors.

Hadn't we just taken the biggest and the most powerful Gholgoth nation out of the war at the cost of one of the smaller militaries involved in the war, Patinkin thought. He looked at the protest with growing bitterness and resentment toward the protestors.

Fucking pussies, he thought before dismissing the thought. After all, the majority of Praetonians cheered the Sarzonian delegation including its most distinguised naval officer and its most successful general. Mike Quinn looked out at the protests with a calm that even Patinkin couldn't muster. After all, Quinn had seen the reports of far worse protests in Woodstock and in Portland. This was par for the course in Quinn's mind.

"Remember, sir, that's just a minority of people here in Praeton," Quinn said. "Besides, when they find out what we have in mind, we won't be thought of as traitors for very long."

"What the hell Quinnie," Patinkin growled. "Traitors? These fucking Praetonians look out for number one. So do we. And they get pissed at us for doing it now when our fucking country's at stake?"

"They don't know of the negotiations you talked about," Quinn replied. "Hell, I don't know anything about them. If they knew, things might be different."

Patinkin shook his head with a growing sense of doubt, but he thought to himself that Quinn perhaps knew something he didn't think the general knew. Perhaps Quinn knew without actually being officially informed of the treaty.

Wouldn't be the first time Quinn had fucking ESP, Patinkin thought before a smile finally crossed his face. Quinn's "ESP" nearly turned a disaster in Inkana into at least a credible performance by an untested army. If Quinn had been in charge, perhaps the war wouldn't have been a nightmare for the Sarzonians. But that was a story for another day.

Patinkin thought also about General Ryan Kennedy, the man who was in command of the Second Incorporated Theatre. The scuttlebut about Kennedy was that he didn't know much more than that disgrace Pinckney. But there was one huge difference between the two that made Kennedy a hero and Patinkin a lecture circuit denizen: Kennedy at least listened to his subordinates. Besides that, he also gave them credit when their suggestions worked. Pinckney never did that.

Patinkin's attention turned to the runway as Sarzonia Two was preparing to land. Before long, he and Quinn would be in a limousine on the way to meet with Sir Thomas Moore. Patinkin fingered his briefcase, as if making sure all the contents were in place.

Patinkin and Quinn stared straight ahead. The battle plan the two leaders worked diligently on was there. They knew the plan had to work perfectly and it would take some daring on the part of President Mike Sarzo. But both men knew Sarzo was sometimes daring to a fault. All the talk about Sarzo being a "pinko liberal" was just talk, at least as far as miliary matters were concerned. The Panteran war was proof of what happened when Sarzonia's determination was tested. They didn't back down from the fight when it was taken to their shores. Yes, the Panterans could bring a lot more fire to the party, but so could the Sarzonians. The Reavers had a hard time landing when facing an unprepared cobbling of militia and Sarzonian regulars. A fully prepared collection of fully trained regulars and fully-prepared defences would have made life about 100 times harder for the Reavers. And both men knew it.

Both men silently descended the steps from Sarzonia Two and walked toward the limousine with the briefcase -- and seemingly the world's future -- in their grasp.

[OOC: They arent anti-war protestors - they're mostly extreme right wing Imperial Monarchists. The anti-war protestors support Sarzonia's leaving the war, but there arent many anti-war protests since it's viewed in Praetonia as a war of defence.]

The man who had ushered the Sarzonians into the car - a Colonel in the Imperial Yeomanry - glanced at the group of angry citizens. A line of his comrades in full riot gear had cut off their abortive attempt to approach the car. From behind, a line of cavalry had been brought up with battons and sabres.

He followed the Sarzonians into the car, and it immediately began to pull out of the airport. His eyes stayed fixed on the protest as the car drew away and into the closed-off street to the conference room. The protestors there were members of a small party and holding an opinion not shared by most of Praetonia, but deep down a lot of people in the military were beginning to doubt the loyalty of Sarzonia.

"We'll only be a few minutes. The conference will be held in the Marble Hall, one of the grandest buildings in the capital and the site of the surrender of Royalist forces at the end of the Civil War. There is a painting in the hall depicting each Praetonian victory in remembered history," he said, in the matter-of-fact manner of a tour guide. The car was driving moderately quickly through the empty streets which were lined with riot police holding back vast celebrating crowds and a smaller number of protestors.

The car turned a corner and a massive triple-lane avenue burst into view. The central reservation was filled with statues and sculutres on high plinths, facing out from Parliament to the rest of the country. "Union Street," the Yeomanry Colonel explained. The street was straight and long, with high marble-faced buildings built in the classical style lining each side.

At the far end of the street stood the grandest statue in the city - perhaps one of the greatest in the world. Set on a 5ft marble plinth, the statue towered over those around it. Glinting gold in the sun, it depicted the General of the Parliamentary army on his rearing warhorse holding the solid gold sceptre of Parliament towards which he faced. In his left hand, he held the broken Royal mace as if throwing it from his horse.

The car slowed and pulled up against the curb. Another officer opened the back passanger door and showed the Sarzonians into the hall and the Colonel let himself out through the front passenger door.

"Welcome to Praeton, Admiral," Sir Thomas Moore stepped forwards to greet the Sarzonians, "I trust you had a pleasant trip. Please follow me..."

Patinkin nodded formally. This wasn't a time to exchange niceties, especially since he wasn't visiting Praeton as a civilian, as he had planned to months before. Unfortunately, Pantera's declaration of war spoiled those plans and he was transfixed in front of his high definition television watching the images of war involving his fellow men once again.

It felt strange for Patinkin to sit on the sidelines whilst Sarzonia was off to war. He could only watch the Lord Reaver's slanderous claims against the Sarzonian government with a helpless frustration. But he thought of war as a young man's game, not one for an old age pensioner, not even one who was a six star officer in the Sarzonian military upon his retirement.

But it wouldn't take long for the Incorporated Sarzonian Government to call upon their greatest hero for one last measure of devotion. Even though now Sarzonia's determination to give everything they had in their battle against Pantera yielded a favourable treaty, which few observers had a right to hope for just a short while after formal hostilities, he was being called upon to demonstrate that devotion to his second country. Patinkin viewed himself as a Sarzonian, but also felt a special affection for Praetonia. Fighting alongside the Imperial Praetonian Navy in two wars against larger foes had an effect of strengthening some already tight bonds.

Now, Patinkin was the benefactor of this relationship as he followed Moore. Keeping up with him stride for stride was a younger man, Mike Quinn. Though his forces eventually went down to defeat in Inkana and he had scant opportunity to land his First Expeditionary Corps in Automagfreek, his performance held up to international scrutiny. He was now going to be charged with a defensive campaign, even though in his heart he wanted to test his army's reforms against a people who had a singular reputation for making boys of men. He wanted his boys to become men right in front of his eyes, but that would require forcing Automagfreek to take the offensive.

Patinkin looked back at Quinn, and he noticed the grim determination on the face of the young general. At only 37 years old, he was still considered a rising star among the Incorporated Sarzonian Army, and though he was 14 years the junior of newly-promoted General Ryan Kennedy, the brevetted Lieutenant General was accorded tremendous respect. In fact, Kennedy often asked Quinn what to do as befitting the respect the younger man's efforts in Inkana earned him. Patinkin found Quinn to be quite the military mind, and he wondered where that came from in a country that was obsessed with naval power. But he wasn't going to question things. He planned to go with the flow.

"Thank you, sir," Patinkin began. "I wish the flight came under more pleasant circumstances. Anyway, we have much to discuss."

OOC: My browser crashed after I finished a monster post, so this one is crappy in comparison.

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

Sir, I don't know how they did it, but they've spotted us.

Within seconds of the transmission, missile batteries on both the land and sea fired scores of anti-ship missiles in support of the bombers. Knowing that the missiles would most likely not make it in time, they fired them anyways in hopes that the Praetonians will either be caught off guard or be too occupied with the bombers.

Immediately the bombers broke formation and flew at breakneck speeds towards the foamy sea below. They pulled up at the last possible second and released their entire payload of torpedos into the waters, then let the guidance systems do the rest. The targets of highest importance were aircraft carriers and missile frigates, and the weapons in the water the bombers immediately scattered in multiple directions at different altitudes.

They engaged in radar jamming and other electronic countermeasures (OOC: Hard to describe, since a lot of the B-2's countermeasures are still top secret...) in hopes of buying themselves more time. Their stealth and black night would be their saving grace now, and the pilots split their attention between getting out of the area and waiting for the torpedos to strike their targets.

Anticipating that most of his bombers would be lost, Damien ordered that a relentless barrage of missiles be sustained for several more hours, some containing EMP charges while the majority would contain high explosives. The sea skimming missiles would hug the waves as close as they could, their primary targets set to be Praetonian aircraft carriers. The missiles would randomly change targets on their attack run to confuse enemy coutnermeasures and preform erratic maneuvers out of the blue. The Naval Strike Missile (NSM) (http://www.kongsberg.com/eng/kda/products/missiles_space/missiles/naval/) was a great weapon, but its steathiness was weakened by the additon of a larger fuel hold and more powerful engine to allow it to travel further.

The barrage continued late into the night, with various batteries collaborating to concentrate their fire and send some missiles in literal packs instead of one at a time. Though missile saturation was not a preferred tactic of Dreadfire's he had little choice in order to help spare his pilots. The remaining stealth bombers and fighters were told to temporarily stand down from their second attack run for the time being, until enough damage could be done to allow them to move in with increased naval fighter support.

North Haven
The whoosh of the jet engines lit up the runway as crewmen dashed for cover. The fastest aircraft in the Hogsweatian Airforce, sloped and equipped with full AWACs and stealthy capability, plus missiles to defend itself from interceptors, was taking off. It was called "V'yes I'd Nergwekelebs" or in English, Bird of Motherland. It's engines could accelerate to mach 2.8 and it's maximum ceiling was an utterly amazing 24,000 metres. An escort was utterly useless at the acute distance from Hogsweat to Praetonia, which would take about two hours, but it was formal anyway. A squadron of high speed interceptors patrolled through the sky below the "V'yes". In very little time the aircraft dropped into Praetonian airspace, it's interceptors peeling off and the plane landing to what Premier Alissa Maykov hoped would be a warm welcome.

Automagfreek
The giant fleet, headed by PSN Interceptor and backed by two dozen more supercarriers and three Superdreadnoughts and hundreds of escorts drifted into Coalition space nearby Automagfreek. The commander of the PSN Interceptor, an Admiral Viskov Hoodska was as famed as his ship. The PSN Interceptor's history and name dated back to when the ship chased down a high-speed cruise ship that fascist terrorists had captured (civilians and all) and launched amphibious landing ships full of marines, saving the day and rescuing the civilians. That was all in the back of Hoodska's mind as he surveyed the oceans ahead. Already an interestingly oozy mist was forming above the Cariya Islands, whos waves where now covering the bridge and threatening to engulf the Island. On his radar screen he saw his own allied fleet and the Praetonians themselves, dragging their damaged battleship away.

Hoodska had received orders direct from Red Square - destroy the Freek fleet at all costs. he had been given the greatest naval task force ever to be formed in the history of the world to do this magnificent task. Even as he planned out his attack, the fleets around him flying the Soviet Red Star where rallying to his position four hundred kilometres off Automagfreek.

Looking onto the take off deck, he saw men flagging aircraft to take off in the evening. The black sky illuminated the many many lights of the fleet, helicopters and aircraft scanning for submarines. As Hoodska looked to the moon, he remembered his grandmother telling him about a famous story. The story began when Hogsweat was in mortal danger -from which direction was not stated. As the capital was about to fall from the invaders by a huge amphibious attack a moon shined over the bay of Hogs. It illuminated the enemy's landing ships, which where attacking under stealth cover that the Hogsweatian rockets could not target. As the moon illuminated the landing ships, the Hogsweatian gunners saw their chance and annihalated the enemy's force before it could land. The very next day, the Admiral commanding Hogsweat's navy at the time counterattacked and wiped out the enemy's fleet , to every last ship. His name was Viskov Hoodska.

Maybe it would be twice in Hogsweatian history that the name Hoodska would strike a dashing victory against the enemy. He ordered the take off of half of the fleet's multitask aircraft. That was over eight thousand aircraft, nearly a third of Hogsweat's entire airforce. There was no time to ponder the fact that a huge number of Hogsweat's fighting planes would be annihalated if these carriers were sunk or if they themselves were destroyed.

The radar screen lit up as the huge blip sped towards the Freek fleet scanning for the submarine that had launched the nuclear assault. Moving up behind them where Rodney's fleet, the three superdreadnoughts and two supercarriers. The Freeks had probably figured out what was about to happen - but it did not matter by the time half of the mammoth number of aircraft dropped down on top of them, firing off anti shipping missiles and laser guided bombs, last resort canons strafes growing as a number of Hogsweatian planes also dropped burning into the waters, or just exploded in the air. Almost fifteen minutes later, the second half came in. More aircraft from the rest of the carriers behind them followed, the continuous wave attack pounding the Freek fleet from the air.

PSN Warspite
"Battle Stations, Battle Stations"

The Warspite turned around to face the enemy fleet. It had been shadowing it for some time and now it unleashed hell as a quarter of it's missile banks opened up on the enemy fleet [4500], the Warspite and it's two sister ships letting off salvos of deadly 27 and 25 inch cannon fire.

Everything about the Praetonian Navy, so different from the budget-restricted navies of many foreign powers, could be likened to a sledgehammer. As a hundred ships fought desperately fought for survival in the cold seas off the coast of Automagfreek, three and a half thousand drifted majestically out of port in the biggest simultaneous deployment of military strength in Praetonian history. It would take weeks to arrive outside Automagfreek and begin their work, but the ships would move inexorably onwards and smash all before them with a combination of sheer weight of numbers, superb tactical and strategic planning and some of the best funded naval research and development in the world.

Similarly, a Praetonian fleet's radar network worked in the same way. Whilst some navies invested in stealth and hesitated to even activate active radar for fear of detection, the Praetonian navy accepted that its massive, lumbering superdreadnaughts would be found and engaged. Instead they opted to building characteristically large radar masts pannelled with power-guzzling systems which, when networked, bombarded any target from all sides with high powered radio waves strong enough to burn through any jamming signal produced by a device small enough to fit on anything other than a superdreadnaught.

"This is Lupus 1 to Lion Control. I have lock-on on enemy bombers, repeat, lock-on on enemy bombers. Request permission to engage, over."

Lupus 1 banked left, and a dozen planes followed. A few miles away, a similar group banked right to covnerge on the enemy bombers. Lupus 1 alone had 5 IR guided missiles and a single 30mm cannon. More planes were flying in the support of his and the accompanying squadron.

"This is Admiral Portdown. Lupus 1, you are to engage at will." The Admiral only just suppressed a smile. 'Oh how the tables have turned, Dreadfire,' he thought, grimly.

Lupus 1 fired its afterburner and the plane shot forwards. His squadron followed in unison.

"Lupus 1 to Lion Control. Targets engaged, over." He pressed a small button on his flight control panel and all 5 missiles hot from his plane, splitting apart to engage five different targets. Othe planes did the same.

"This Lupus 1 to Lupus Squadron. Engage with cannon, over." His planes swept down upon the bombers which were still low down to the water after loosing their payloads of torpedos. They moved so that the sun was behind them as they descended. 'Poor bastards,' thought the pilot of Lupus 1, 'totally defenceless.'.

"Admiral Portdown, sir, we have a hell of a lot of torpedos on sonar."

Portdown spun around to face the Oberon Officer who had spoken. "Engage them at once. Do not let them hit the Triumphant." Portdown's voice was matter-of-fact but was as harsh as steel. The men instincively trusted and respected him.

"Yes sir." The Oberon system, as it had done when faced with missiles, sprang into effect. The large ships had super cavitating cannon which turned to face the projectiles which threatened their survival and opened fire as they came into range. The smaller ships attempted to weave a course between torpedos, whilst deploying combined coutnermeasures designed to emit the same kind of sound, sonar signal and magnetic signal as the ship. Many were successful.

"Good god," the Achilles's Captain muttered under his breath as he saw the first ship explode.

"They'll have hit a magazine," Portdown stated, almost coldly, "Damned lucky of them. Most of our ships won't go down that easily."

The Admiral was right. Another two ships exploded, and eighteen were hit, but most of the damage was to only one of the trimaran sections which were further subcompartmented and most of the flooding was quickly stopped at the loss of only a few crew compartments and a couple of tonnes of supplies. That and deeper structural damage to the ships, but that would not present itself as a problem in the immediacy.

"Missiles on the horizon, sir. They seem to be going all out for this one."

"That may be, Lieutenant. Frankly I've had enough of these damned people. Use some of our EMP warheads against this attack - we cant afford to take too many more missiles." The Oberon system worked as it had last time, but with the advantage of an EMP missile launched before the other SAMs there were far fewer missiles to deal with.

"In the meantime we shall, of course, repay their compliment. We know where their coastal missile launchers are now, do we not?"

"Yes sir," the Lieutenant nodded, "Shall I return fire with cruise missiles?"

"Of course," Portdown snapped. He hesitated and then added, "The Triumphant?"

"Her C turret is back online, and the control systems for two of her reactors." The bridge shook as somewhere else on the carrier's armoured belt a missile struck home, but Portdown ignored it and so did his crew. None of them seemed to notice the rancid smell of smoke that had filled the bridge since the beginning of the fighting. They were too caught up in the moment.

Portdown nodded. "Fighting retreat if you pleace, Mr Geofferies," he set, looking at the helmsman, "Have us link up with the Hogsweatian vessels."

As he finished speaking, the bridge filled with the hissing rush of air as dozens of cruise missile's streaked from the Achilles's VLS batteries alone to begin their journey towards the Automagfreek missile batteries. In the sky, Lupus 1 was being reinforced by the several dozen other Praetonian strike fighters that had been converging upon them. The sky was darkening and for perhaps the first time since the nuclear attack, things were looking hopeful.

OOC:
I apologize for the OOC post here. Consider this a tag, I will be aiding AMF and my kin from Gholgoth. It's unfortunate that I am on the opposite ends of you, Praetonia. Let me get things ready and a post probably will be coming later tonight! :)

Edit: Also, Praetonia, check your telegrams and please get back to me with the info asap.

[OOC: If you want to follow this thread, please use Thread Tools ---> Subscribe. There's a sticky now about people who tag threads.

Apologies to Prae and Hoggy if I take some minor liberties to get to the point more quickly. If you wish, I can edit the actions out.]

Both Patinkin and Quinn were lost in thought as they followed Sir Thomas Moore down the ornate hall to the room where they would be meeting with him. Patinkin allowed himself a small smile when he saw how impressively decorated the hall was. Too bad I'm not seeing this during peacetime, he thought. Quinn was focusing on what he'd say to Sir Thomas Moore, and he was getting impatient with the lack of movement by the Praetonian military.

Finally, Moore opened the door to the room and the Sarzonians noticed the large flat screened monitor and computer systems that were at least six months ahead of the fare at the Military Command Centre in Saugerties. Patinkin stared at the computer systems with a gaze that could only be interpreted as a twinge of jealousy. Meanwhile, Quinn walked briskly toward the table and set his briefcase down, opening it to pull out the war plans.

He was so focused on what he was doing he didn't realise that he came within centimetres of bumping into a female who was sitting anxiously in the room.

"General Quinn," she said, looking at the three stars that adorned the epaulettes on Quinn's dress uniform and promptly saluting, a Hogsweatian ritual not unlike the Nazi Heil or the Roman Ave.

"Oh, hello your excellency," Quinn replied sheepishly, returning the salute.

"Sorry about that," Sir Thomas said. "May I present Premier Alissa Maykov of Hogsweat?"

Patinkin nodded slightly.

"Pleased to meet you," he said. "As you can see, General Quinn is rather eager to get started. He waited for Sir Thomas to enter the room and he closed it.

"A reminder to all, this meeting is classified," Sir Thomas said in Latin. Quinn stiffened, remembering the language from fighting the Doomies, but he also took ten months of intensive Latin following the Inkanan Civil War.

"What did he say," Patinkin whispered to Quinn.

"A reminder to all, this meeting is classified," Quinn whispered back. "Sorry. Latin gives me too many bad memories.

I don't blame you, Patinkin thought. Quinn turned on the flat screen monitor as if he'd been operating Praetonian equipment all his life.

"As you know, not much has happened on the Gholgoth front since the start of hostilities," Quinn said. "Except for the destruction of the Cariya Islands." The mention of the Cariya nuking, which was already being circulated by the media as a mass murder of millions of civilians, prompted a low toned grunt from the Premier. Quinn noted the grunt and continued, "and some minor battles here and there, it's been the diplomatic and military equivalent of a staring contest.

"It's time to stop staring at them and start getting into it," Quinn said, quickly dispensing with any niceties. "We've got a very large naval advantage against Automagfreek and the only way we're going to win this war is to take the war to those bastards."

"With all due respect, General," Sir Thomas interrupted. "What is all this talk about we if your government is pulling out of the war following the action against Pantera?"

"I'm glad you asked that question," Quinn said, not skipping a beat. "According to the terms of the Sandstone Accord, we are permitted to provide logistical support in the Gholgothian theatre. However, we are also permitted to defend our allies against a Gholgoth Powers attack. As soon as the Sandstone Accord is ratified by the House of Delegates, Sarzo will order all but one fleet of logistics vessels and all three fleets of combat ships to redeploy to Gholgoth. In addition, the First Incorporated Army will be deployed to Praetonia under General Ryan Kennedy. I am being sent with the Second Incorporated Army to Hogsweat. In addition, now that we're getting hundreds of warships from the Ready Reserve and from mothballs into active duty, we'll be able to swarm Haven with our fleets. If Automagfreek and its cronies want to attack Haven, they're going to have to get past us."

"No offence General," Maykov said matter of factly, "but your army isn't exactly.. up to the Praetonian, or even Hogsweatian.. standards."

"I'm well aware of that," Quinn said evenly, not showing any offence to the comment even though he was seething inwardly. "However, Pantera failed to secure a solid foothold on Daltrey in spite of facing an unprepared defence. We'll be ready for those bastards this time, and in the unlikely event they get past the Steel Walls of Sarzonia, they're going to have one hell of a hard time securing a foothold in either of your territories."

"During our state of hostilities against Pantera, we were lend leased 1,500 electronics warfare aircraft by Isselmere-Nieland," Patinkin chimed in. "We are more than willing to lend you 1,000 of those same aircraft to be used to jam the electronics of the Gholgoth powers. But one more thing about that, you must attack the spaceborne assets of Automagfreek. Don't leave a single communications or GPS satellite in the air. Take them all out. Make 'em blind, deaf and mute, and protect your own assets."

"I propose that once our fleets and armies arrive, you prepare to launch an offensive against Automagfreek," Quinn said. "We'll handle the heavy lifting of defence against an attack. If they get into Haven, they're going to pay for that."

"What about your own homeland," Sir Thomas asked incredulously.

"As a means of saving money, the ISN had been keeping many of the ships in the Navy in mothballs to keep from spending the money on running costs and personnel beyond having skeleton crews," Patinkin said. "We've had no more than 1,000 ships on active deployment at any one time, but upon the start of hostilities, we could up that to 5,000 pure combatants. Add to that major refits of older vessels that still had combat worthiness and wartime construction, and we can defend ourselves quite capably. We also have a few allies who are ready to support us in the event the Gholgoth Powers try to attack us. Besides, if worse comes to worse, we'll have conscripts stay home to defend the Sarzonian homeland."

Quinn turned on the video projector with an outline of Operation Hedge Clipper.

"Here's an outline of our proposed strategy," Quinn said. "There are a lot of points to it, so I've included a set of notes, which Admiral Patinkin is handing you now. Sir Thomas and Maykov looked at each other as if to wonder how many spots of tea Quinn gulped down before getting off the plane. Patinkin stared straight ahead.

"We've got a chance to win this war, and we will do it," Patinkin said. "Sarzonia will make sure that Praetonia and Hogsweat are defended, and defended well. We have our veterans of Inkana and of the Sarz-Panteran War who will be serving with both armies," Patinkin said. "Unlike our forces in Inkana, these troops have seen combat. They've trained for months. They know their foes about as well as anyone does. They aren't going to run scared.

"Besides, if you're concerned that we're taking too much of the wind out of your sails, we can instruct our troops to follow orders from your military and civilian leaders if you wish. But it's time to start taking the war to those bastards and start beating them at their own game for once."

The end of the Sarzonian's speech aroused a "hear hear" and some minor clapping from the Hogsweatian premier. Patinkin kept his gaze an even one, but even though Quinn only knew Patinkin for a matter of weeks, his inward smile was clear to the younger General.

Bastards, even after that they still won't commit... Dreadfire had been intentionally playing sloppy in hopes that the Praetonians would smell weakness and advance, but they were not buying it. Perhaps they knew that the other nations attacking Automagfreek were being utterly destroyed, and chances were that the Praetonians and Hogsweatians smelled a rat.

Reports had come in that all but a small fist of bombers were totally destroyed, the surviving ones being towards the rear of the pack and unable to drop their ordinance in time before being slaughtered. The random missile barrage has forced to Praetonians to retreat towards Hogsweatian positions, but not before returning the gesture and firing a salvo of their own.

The inbound missiles were being tracked and approriate measures were already being taken to counter them. Both sides had quickly learned that missile barrages were near totally ineffective, with minor damage at best inflicted on both navies. The missile wave was ordered to be halted for the time being, and supplies were being restocked in preparation for the anticipated joint Praetonia/Hogsweat landing.

As plans were being adjusted in light of the Praetonian retreat to Hogsweatian position, Dreadfire began to grow quite weary. Perhaps they seek to test my patience and force me to attack them out of frustration.... Damien smirked to himself as he continued debating in his head. Undoubtedly his plan to sucker the Praetonian fleets in had failed...perhaps it was intuition that had told the enemy commander to fall back. But regardless, Damien continued to watch the enemy ships mass on the outer edges of his waters. Surely the radioactive fallout would soon take its effect, especially with the recent storms.

Thing would continue at their current pace, however slow it indeed was. It also gave Dreadfire more time to better plan his own defense, and as the factories continued churning out more ships, artillery, planes, missiles, tanks, and ammunition they were immediately allocated to the front, or frontal reserves.

Word had also been sent that the Sunstone search party had been totally destroyed by the Hogsweat navy. For this Damien grew angry, feeling that his good will gesture towards Hogsweat had been betrayed. Fine, fuck them. If Sunstone goes on another rampage then I refuse to be held responsible. We were hot on the trail of that bastard and they send our ships to the bottom? Screw it, Sunstone is their problem now. Make sure you tell them that.

Dreadfire's officer saluted and immediately relayed the message to Hogsweatian high command.

Patinkin walked toward the front of the room with a calm demeanor, though Sir Thomas Moore probably would have known the mask of calm belied the burning desire of the legendary naval officer to win the war. He looked out at Maykov, who habitually saluted when she saw the six stars that adorned the epaulettes on the Sarzonian Admiral of the Incorporated Navy's dress uniform.

"Uh, that won't be necessary," he said. He turned his attention to Sir Thomas and turned on the projection which showed a computer-generated image of several satellite launches. It then turned to a graphic of a satellite explosion which was followed by a satellite that sat in geosynchronous orbit as if it were a gunslinger from the Old West who had just won a duel.

"Besides the electronics warfare aircraft, I am also willing to offer you the command codes to access hunter-killer satellites we have in orbit. Most of the ASAT modules you have are not designed for anything that goes beyond space assets in Lower Earth Orbit. This way, you have the ability to knock out the enemy's GPS and communications satellites and make him blind and deaf. Not to mention mute."

"The advantages this should give our cause are clear," Quinn added. "If we are able to then turn around and jam what's left of his communications, we can hit them when they're not able to even see us."

"We have a few other innovations we've been working on, well the Portland Iron Works have been working on some solutions to some of Freek technology," Patinkin added. We have two projects that are considered ultra top secret [OOC: They've been posted in the Lineart Forum so people should know about them already OOCly]. We call them Project Furious and Project Argonaut. Here are the plans for the two projects," Patinkin said, handing the designs over to Moore and Maykov.

"The first project should be a rather effective way to deal with those 'Devil's Fingers' that the enemy likes to trump up," Patinkin said with subtle scorn. "The second project has been designed with some of the unique challenges of countering Freek defences. We believe it's a rather unique way to deal with the terrain the fleets would be facing."

Patinkin purposefully walked toward the centre of the room where he could get a good look at everyone in the room and study their reactions, while Quinn stood at firm attention. The Sarzonians were going to prove that they were only out of the war nominally, and they had further tricks up their sleeve should Damien be foolish enough to test them.

Meanwhile, Quinn eyed another folder titled GDNNF, which Patinkin pointed to after getting the general's attention.

"Do we need to talk to them about those guys," Quinn whispered in Spanish.

"No ahora," Patinkin replied. The Geeks Don't Need No Freeks were top secret, so top secret in fact that even Patinkin shouldn't know about them. In fact, he could picture Sarzo's face in the Gray House if found out about their existence. If they actually undertook their plans, the world would find out soon enough about them.

Sir Thomas Moore looked impassive. "Tea?" He offered the Sarzonians and Hogsweatians a tray holding several cups, which they took and sipped with a quick word of thanks.

"Your plans seem comprehensive and most impressive, but I don't know how long it may take to get our military ready for an invasion. Ours may be one of the better armies in the world, but it is small. We cannot withstand the attrition rates of a major war, nor do we imagine that your army can," he looked at Patinkin, indicating that he meant the Sarzonian army, "It will take us at least a year to train the troops, build the transports and stockpile the supplies, and that does not just apply to us.

"There are those at HorseGuards and at the Admiralty who would like to see a swift invasion, but moving hundreds of thousands of troops across an ocean of several thousand nautical miles and landing and supplying them on foreign shores is not an easy task, and I know of no military force in the world that could do it with no prior preparation. We did not see this war coming - any of us - and we will undoubtably pay the price for that.

"In the meantime, we must work towards the immediate goals required for us to build up to an invasion. We need to destroy their high seas battlefleet or blockade it in port, cut off their supply lines and communications with other nations, and disable their shore defences in several possible landing locations. They are stronger than any opponent we have fought before and they have prepared for war - either with us or with some other power.

"They seem to think they have damaged our fleets - they are indeed deluded - within a month the Hogsweatian and Praetonian navies will be ready to launch a major attack against the Automagfreek navy, and it is unlikely that - unable to risk another nuclear attack and away from their shore defences - they will stand any semblance of a chance. In addition to this, it is vital that we prepare to secure the space theatre, and knock out their communications and GPS satellites. Blinded, cut off from their allies by sea and lacking any ability to strike foreign targets, they will be completely unable to resist invasion, regardless of their assuredly brilliant preparations."

Sir Thomas drained his cup, and returned it to the tray. He looked at the Sarzonians and Hogsweatians for approval, but it was clear that he was not willing to shift ground on this. Not only was he unwilling, but he was largely unable - it was true that the Praetonian army was in a state to defend its own shores or to deal with a minor war with exemplary efficiency, but there was no way it could afford, in its present state, to sustain a major war against a prepared and powerful opponent on foreign soil.

[OOC: Sorry for my sporadic posting, I have had rather a lot of work at school lately. As for the Cariya theatre, I'll wait for Hogsweat to post his movements, but as soon as this conference is over, things will speed up, my fleets will arrive and I'll start recruiting into my army and preparing the invasion.]

"That's where we come in," Patinkin said matter of factly. As soon as hostilities began against Pantera, we called up reserve units and nationalised state militia units and trained them to our post reform specifications. The number of months it took for the war to play itself out bought us some much needed time to ensure that all our units were able to train to a level of competence needed to prosecute a war.

"In addition, even with the House of Delegates ratifying the Seastone Accords, we have only downgraded to DEFCON 2, not DEFCON 3 as the Liberals wanted us to. That means we can continue to behave on a war footing except for having the Wartime Powers Act be in effect. In addition, I seriously doubt Automagfreek or Pantera is going to want to drag The Evil Overlord into the war, which will happen if they try to get past EOE fleets that have begun patrolling Sarzonian waters (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=446953)."

Patinkin noticed the distate on Sir Thomas's face as the name The Evil Overlord crossed his lips, raised his eyebrow, and continued.

"I know your relations with them aren't too cozy," Patinkin said, "but as it stands now, they are currently aligned with us through the Union of World Powers. It seems the top brass finally decided to listen to their offers of help after all this time. The fact remains they have the population base and a large and professional military that can stand up to anything the Gholgoth Powers can throw at us."

"What that's going to allow us to do is continue to grow our military enough to enable you to commit more resources to the Gholgoth front," Quinn said. "Unlike those blowhard fools in Ule City, we have no doubts about the courage of Praetonians or Hogsweatians. We would like to point out, however, that we developed Operation Hedge Clipper with a Sarzonian invasion of Automagfreek in mind."

Quinn stood for a moment to let the words sink in.

"In case you doubt the ability of Hedge Clipper to work, we could show you Operation Beartrap," he said.

When Maykov and Sir Thomas both looked confused, Patinkin chimed in.

"Beartrap was designed for a Sarzonian offensive against all three Gholgoth Powers without assistance from either Praetonia or Hogsweat," he said. "It's an operation that was borne of our military's desire to leave no stones unturned in our preparation. That operation would have a very small probability of success, but we wanted to show that we have contingency plans in the works in the event that Hedge Clipper doesn't work."

"We already have army assets in the area waiting to land and coordinate with your forces," Quinn said. "We've also got logistics fleets including ELINT aircraft and Early Warning craft. We are willing to include the logistics fleets to either or both of you for the war effort and they can join the forces in Gholgoth. We are specifically being permitted to provide logistical support to the war effort and we're going to do just that."

Sarzo, Newman, and the branch chiefs all sat looking for an indication of the progress of the talks with Praetonia and Hogsweat. The Sarzonians were laying their cards out on the table for their allies, sending their greatest naval hero and their most promising general to Praeton in an attempt to convince both allies of the need to seize the initiative from the Gholgoth Powers. Sarzo nodded slightly when he saw Quinn mention Operation Beartrap, hoping that mentioning the fact the Sarzonians actually planned for a solo offensive against the Gholgoth powers and had a mapped out strategy in mind for that would shame the two primary antagonists of the Gholgoth side into action.

However, when Sir Thomas expressed his doubts and seemed to distance himself from Operation Hedge Clipper by outlining how hard it would be to overcome Automagfreek offensively, Sarzo slammed his right fist against the desk.

"Goddamnit!" He stood up, paced the room drawing in his breath and exhaling several times in the course of several minutes. His face took on a dark tone and he visibly muttered obscenities that would make his own father blush.

"And they question our courage in Praeton," Sarzo asked incredulously. "We tell them we've got a plan to kick the asses of all three Gholgoth enemies by ourselves and they're still scared shitless? What the fuck is wrong with this picture?"

"Mike, Sir Thomas isn't running scared, he's being careful," Newman said in a halting tone. "He's right about it taking several months before a sufficient invasion force can launch."

"But that doesn't mean they can't seize initiative in the meantime. They can and should sweep the seas of the Freek fleets. Stifle them with a blockade and build up an invasion force while they're starving Automagfreek of supplies. They're an island so they need maritime commerce. Disrupt their shipping. This war can be won, but they have to get off their asses and do it!"

Newman looked askance at Sarzo and soon the branch chiefs followed suit. He returned their looks with one of his own that showed sombre determination.

"Mr. President, with all due respect, you're starting to sound more like Damien than he is. These are our closest allies you're talking about like dogs here," Air Force Chief Bill Lighton said. "If they're taking their time until they can develop a plan of attack, that's not cowardice. That's smart.

"Sir, I think you need to take some time and calm down."

"Noted," Sarzo said sharply. "However, we're giving them a chance to take the initiative against Automagfreek. That's the only way we can win this war. So far, it looks like Automagfreek isn't forcing the action either. They seem to be content to wait and make Praetonia and Hogsweat look like pussies."

"Mike," Newman said with the tone of a parent lecturing a child.

"John," Sarzo responded with equal sharpness. "We're nearing zero hour here. If we're trying to regain the initiative and beat those bastards, we're running out of time. I'm going to contact the Praetonian government personally and see if I can get them off their asses. And that's that," Sarzo said.

Under normal circumstances, Sarzo might have continued the meeting and solicitied further opinions from his military brain trust. He might have asked Senior Vice President and External Affairs Officer Mark Lorber for his opinion on how to approach the Praetonians diplomatically. However, Sarzo was about to take a page out of Lieutenant President Nicole Lewis's book and be direct with the Praetonians. He ran out into the hallway toward the emergency communications centre in the Gray House.

He worked the communicaitons panel and tapped in a few commands to gain access to Imperator Sarius Publius I himself. He also typed a few additional commands to cut into the conference where Sir Thomas, Hogsweatian Premier Maykov, and Patinkin and Quinn could also get the message, setting the encryption to maximum to prevent the Gholgoth Powers from accessing it.

"I have been monitoring the war room discussions among Praetonian Minister of War Sir Thomas Moore, Hogsweatian Premier Alissa Maykov and our own Admiral of the Incorporated Navy Marcus Patinkin and Lieutenant General Mike Quinn," Sarzo said, cutting right to the point. "If we are to win this war, which we must do, we must take the initiative now rather than later.

"I'm sure you've heard about Operation Beartrap," Sarzo continued, his face cutting a forbidding swath on the screen. "If either of you have any doubts about the courage of your Sarzonian allies, let that operation dispel them now and for all time. If you're concerned about defending your home turf, our army can do the job. We have our veteran troops from the defence of Branwyn and the operations in Inkana and the troops who have come in after we've implemented the reforms. They have undergone intense training that dwarfs that of many other peer nations. We also have eight fleets in the area ready to strike a death blow against Freek fleets if they dare to attack you in Haven.

"If you feel you are not able to conduct an offensive campaign, please notify us now so that we don't risk the lives of our men and women needlessly. If you want to withdraw from the war, you need to let us know that now. But if you want to fight, we'll answer the bell." Sarzo shut off the communications panel after he finished his speech.

If that doesn't inspire them, nothing will, Sarzo thought. He thought briefly that he should have made an announcement that Sarzonia would declare Automagfreek an Enemy of Peace, which would then mean that Sarzonia would devote its military to building up to destroy Automagfreek and they would not rest until that objective was met, no matter what it took or however many friends Sarzonia would have to alienate along the way. He then took a breath and reconsidered.

In due time, he thought. In due time.

[OOC (Prae and Hog): If you read the OOC thread, AMF has gotten to a point where he can no longer wait for this war to reach some resolution. Basically, if the two of you want a chance to bow out gracefully, here's your chance. We all can talk with AMF about possibly resuming things later, but it's not fair to him to keep him from RPs he's been planning for quite some time.

(AMF): I'm not willing to RP my transmission from Sarzo to Praetonia and Hogsweat being detected. I just want to make sure that's understood.]

"Thank you, Gentlemen, but I have very important matters of state to get back to. I must take my leave - i'll send you my decision later today."

Automagfreek

Slowly and silently, the Hogsweatian forces began their perfectly practised 360 degrees turn away from Automagfreek. The entire fleet, supercarriers, dreadnoughts, and destroyers, began to shift slowly from attack positions away into the withdrawal. Every single crewman was glad to be returning - however, they were sad that they would never be able to bring the fight to Automagfreek. Even Admiral Hoodska, the First Sea Comrade, felt a deep pang of pity that the deaths of the innocents at Cariya Island, now almost a mile below the sea, would never be avenged.

And all at once, it was over.

Without warning or notice of any sort, the enemy ships silently pulled out of the area one by one, until not a single one remained. A chilly breeze and the crashing of the salt water tides were the only things in the distance now, and the Freek commanders were in a state of shock.

The great armadas that came to challenge Automagfreek had disappeared almost as quickly as they had appeared. For nearly an hour Dreadfire stood on the deck of the Mouth for War and starred at the horizon before turning and heading back inside. Once he resumed his place in the command tower, he demanded a status report and an explanation.

M'lord, the region of Haven seems to be going through....what can only be described as an apocalyptic civil dispute. The nation of Hogsweat has been wiped off the face of the earth by their defense grid that went berserk...

The rest of the officers words went unheard as the Warlord suddenly slumped into his chair and once more began starring off into the distance. Regardless of whether or not the officer had finished speaking or not, Dreadfire waved his hand in a dismissive manner, clearing the room of all occupants. A tear nearly formed in the corner of his eye, but with a quick blink the clear fluid was washed away.

This was not supposed to end like this....they should have died at my hands...they should have died a warrior's death...

After nearly a half hour by himself, Dreadfire's first mate entered to room and respectfully asked for further orders. Dreadfire licked his lips and took a minute to gather his thoughts before giving his instructions. Issue no statement, and recall the fleets from the Straight. Their part in this war is forever over, and now we shall tend to the other fronts.

Later that night all flags across Automagfreek were lowered to half mast, a silent salute to the one nation brave enough (or foolish enough depending on how you look at it) to openly defy the single most indomitable Empire on the planet.

What a great battle it would have been....but once more fate steals glory from underneath me. The skies will weap tonight, that much is certain. Let us pray that I see battle before this Operation is finished, or else the long wait will be the death of me.

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

OOC: Sorry to see you go Hogsweat....sorry this had to end like this. To the other participants, sorry, but I'm ending this RP. Maybe in another time, in another place....