NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC:This thread is for Earth/OOC posts please. Those in the Klatch system should be made on the main thread


IC:
The cold wind howled through the gap in the side of the partially collapsed building. It was a haunting sound, almost as if the air itself was mourning for the dead who lay buried in the rubble of the surrounding town. A single solider huddled out of the cold northern wind in a corner of the building.

He sat there quietly, using his hearing to try and detect any enemy movement. His gray eyes were hooded over with a lack of sleep. His mind groggily tried to keep himself awake as the cold air bit at his fingers and toes.
God what a hell hole this is, worse than North Korea in winter…

His eyes wandered over the pile of debris that filled the center of the former room, looking for some kind of distraction. The debris of war and life mixed with the clay tile of the collapsed roof. The man's hard eyes locked for a moment on something white in the browns, black and dark reds of this battlefield. Curious and bored, he pushed himself out of the tattered chair and tugged at the white object. It pulled from the pile of rubble with a soft bleat that could be heard like a crystal bell over the howling wind.

The solider paused, straining his hearing to detect if anyone else had heard the odd sound; if his curiosity had just ended his life. But he could only hear the howling of the wind. He slowly, silently, sat back down on the seat and pulled the object away from his chest to see what it was.

It was a toy sheep. Well it was a toy pseudo-sheep…white and fluffy, with a little bell. It just had six legs instead of four. So much like home…and so different…well he had gone off to war with the Klatchians of all people.


Six Months Earlier…Earth

Someone once said that war would end if women ruled the world. This was pure fiction. Women in power saw war as a tool no more and no less than a man in power did. The worst problem was when there was only a choice between war or war. Which is what the Landgravine of Hubris, Victoria Crawford realized one evening.

Victoria sat on the roof of the Privy Council Chamber; a new habit she had developed with the full outbreak of the Anti-Unionist Uprising. (1) She sat with her royal rear up on the edge of the copper plated dome, allowing her to look out over the Klatchian Capital of Port Olympus in the dying light of another frustrating day.

"Liz, what the bloody f*ck is wrong with them…" she made the statement in an offhand manner, as her eyes focused in on some wisps of smoke from another 'incident' in the city; now drowned in water by the fire brigade of the city watch.

"Particularism, distrust….the normal centrifugal forces that are always pulling this cobbled together Federation apart." Elizabeth Crawford replied as she leaned her back against the outer parapet. Elizabeth was playing some odd form of solitaire; there appeared to be five suits rather than four.

Victoria sniffed distain, "Well the mess in Karmanyanka didn't help. The bloody anti-unionists attempting to whack me off…bloody hell if we don't do something soon we're going to have a civil war…"

"We?" Liz herself wasn't much of a 'Unionist' at the moment. Some intelligence services of the Klatch believed the younger Crawford heir was actually the true ringleader of the entire Anti-Unionist operation.

"We… she swung her hands wide to indicate the entire Klatch "Civil War Liz….what an oxymoronic term for pure, unadulterated mass murder, bloodshed and destruction...there is nothing civil about it."

Liz looked up and shrugged at her sister.
"What we need is a nice outsider to come along and try and push us around…" Victoria added.

"Er….didn't we just spend billions of krondor and a few thousand lives in Neo Tyr, as well as almost go to war with Vaad to teach the world not to do that kind of thing?

"Yes, quite….nothing like mass murdering a few million people by having their island city collapse around them to demonstrate a point."

"We could start a war with Vaad…" Liz added helpfully, "they are always sticking their nose in things…"

"That would be just about as bad as a civil war…No I was hoping for something a bit less destructive…"

Liz paused again, "You want a unifying war, that won't be too destructive within the Klatch? Not trying for Klatchian Empress are you Victoria?"

"You've been listening to too much Vaadian propaganda there sis…"

"War is evil you know…"

"Quite but less evil than a civil war…"

"Well your not going to find many takers for a war with the Klatch, not on this planet anyway…"

Victoria stood up, "your right, not this planet! Time to restart Project Warlus"

*******
Soon after that conversation, word spread within the international community of mercenaries and soilgers of fortune that there was a lot of work being offered at outstanding rates. It appeared that the Klatchians were in need of some extra support on some endeavor. The Klatchian Federation was looking to hire private contractors to help Federal Forces deal with a trespassing issue. They were offering good pay, and a high bonus for already complete, armored units.


Desired: Well Trained, Well Equipped Forces for dealing with a trespassing issue. Forces will be supporting operations of Federal Klatchian Forces deployed into the area.
Contact for inquiries:
General Mar Petterson,
Acting head of Support Infantry Unit Command,
302 Yelham Hall
Fasta
The Federated Klatchian Coast

OOC:
Well the Klatch is at it again, but this time on a new world. Obviously this is fully open for Klatchian Nations, but I thought I would make the war semi-open Rp for any non-klatchian state who wants to Rp a mercenary company (or a hired out front line company). This is an OOC/IC thread designed to get outside players involved first before the 'police operation' begins.

Now Who are we invading? More like Where we are invading. The Federation purchased a planetary system from the Var years ago. The problem is that there are some 'aliens' occupying the habitable planet and we want them off or at least under our control. (Yes pure naked colonialist thought in some ways)

You do Not have to be FT to join in. This war is primarily going to be a ground war with the troops shuttled in via the Var so MT and PMT players and characters can join in for the fun and destruction.

Now for those few of you who don't know the Klatch, we tend to do more character oriented RPs than anything else so…come join us for the fun…

It will be like shooting fish in a barrel…
…a large barrel
….where the fish have harpoon guns to shoot back.

OOC: I am interested. TG on the way.

OOC: Just a couple questions: who are the Klatch (yes, I need to brush up on my politics) and who do I get to blow to hell and back? Will post a QUETZAL convo soon and send a legion or so.

OOC Answers:
The "Klatch" -The Federated Klatchian Coast

A region 'supernation' (that is all(*) of the regional members are considered States of the Federation) that is more a confederacy with a somewhat weak Federal Government.
Typically sited as being as the insane asylum for N.S. having been born out of the Disk World Series.

Major Members: A+H, Dyelli Beybi, Ilek-Vaad, Vrak, Tanah Burung
(Typically Klatchian Rps happen over in N.S rather than here)

"Who do I get to blow up?"
People who are going to be very willing to blow you up also.

Actually your going to get into a bit of a three way war it appears. One enemy will be at WWI +errant (things WWI tech people shouldn't have) and the other will likely be limited FT (All FT will be basicly limited to ground/air forces, space forces will not want to be 'hanging around')

OOC Answers:
The "Klatch" -The Federated Klatchian Coast

A region 'supernation' (that is all(*) of the regional members are considered States of the Federation) that is more a confederacy with a somewhat weak Federal Government.
Typically sited as being as the insane asylum for N.S. having been born out of the Disk World Series.

Major Members: A+H, Dyelli Beybi, Ilek-Vaad, Vrak, Tanah Burung
(Typically Klatchian Rps happen over in N.S rather than here)

"Who do I get to blow up?"
People who are going to be very willing to blow you up also.

Actually your going to get into a bit of a three way war it appears. One enemy will be at WWI +errant (things WWI tech people shouldn't have) and the other will likely be limited FT (All FT will be basicly limited to ground/air forces, space forces will not want to be 'hanging around')

ooc
sadly sighing...so soon New Shiron is forgotten.. we aren't even a major nation and we have 2.5 billion people. (chuckle)

IC
The Royal Government is considering providing some military and space forces

Your a valued "smaller"
member of the Federation New Shiron...I didn't even mention L.O.W.

Tyvor was shocked and suprised as he watched the receding fireball. He felt ice crystals forming in his hair and on his face, his breath puffed out in a hot fiery vapour. He rolled onto his side and 'swam' toward the nearest Dyan-XD Cruiser. He positioned himself at an airlock and ripped off the sealed control panel and pulled the emergency lever (keep in mind tearing off that panel takes tons of force) and waited impatiently as the door opened.

He stepped in and after pressurization stepped into the Cruiser and headed for the bridge, Thilite Marines nearly killed each other dashing out of his way in a mad panic, they avoided the sickening green light emitted from his eyes as if to stand in it was death!

"Lord Crasseus, I'm taking command of this ship." Tyvor stated as he moved to take the Commanders Chair vacated with alarming swiftness by Commander Crasseus.

"Of course my lord!" Crasseus hissed from behind a console.

"Computer, what happened to my Voltaug? Were we attacked? If so by whom, and what other assets have we lost?" Tyvor said offhandedly as he gazed over the pathetic Thilites.

The 'Head' of computer bobbed before him attacked to a serpentine neck and it deadpanned "My Lord Tyvor, there appaears to be a ring of defenses around this system, apparently they are hard to detect unless activated. We lost Voltaug and all five of his MOBAT Drones. Regrettable my Lord, The Autarch is being informed."

The 'Klatch System' Had been claimed by The Autarch, to be exploited. Of course The Commonwealth called the system something entirely different, but it mattered little, destroying The Autarch's ships was hearesy, and would be punished.

Tyvor rubbed his chin "That inhabited planet, these defences MUST be controlled from there. I assume that Voltaug's Huscarl's survived?"

Computer bobbed "Yes my Lord they assembled in bay 2."

Tyvor snarled "Good, good. Put together a Marine compliment and have them meet me and the Huscarl's in bay two! Crasseus! You sniveling toad, you are in command until someone with intelligence shows up."

Computer bobbed again "As you command. FCG-E is still in transit from Sol, I have requested that they join us here, with support, and the additional Varangian Lord."

Tyvor nodded as he walked out "Fine, fine!" Some one was going to pay.

Commander Crasseus snarled as the Varangian left, and slowly made his way back to the control chair.

Will deal with post later...but first...doesn't anyone want to make some money by throwing a few thousand boys and girls onto a alien shore to die?

bump again

Private Hank "the Wolf" Cook clutched the heavy battle rifle in his hands as the transport ship violently rocked back and forth as it swooped down to the planet. He looked back and forth to the other volunteers who had signed up in the recruiting office of the newly formed SARJ Corporation in Rouge Jiggady. They had rebuilt their nation and were now looking onto bigger endeavors and that meant space exploration, and that meant hundreds of saps, or brave men and women as the recruiters put it, to stand on the front lines against the unknown while the executives watched from their plush offices.

Off course he was going to sign up, Hank would be making five times his wages in the auto repair shop he was currently working at, though he assumed that they would use his talents as a mechanic for servicing shuttles and other equipment not sitting here with a basic training of how to shoot and duck. 'Screw college' he said, 'I like working with my hands'. Well Hank Cook had quickly grown to regret that statement as he barely made ends meat in the shitty garage he was hired at.

The transport shook again and he uncontrollably tumbled over into the lap of the female recruit sitting next to him. Cook gave an awkward smile to her, hoping that this would have been one of those boy meets girl romances that he always hears about where they get together after an embarrassing and funny situation. However she pushed him back in his seat and took the safety off of her weapon for good measure incase he tried anything else.

"Alright you miserable excuse for warriors this is it, remember your training: SHOOT then DUCK." The platoon leader Lt. Harris yelled above the racket of the shuttle. For him it was good to be fighting again, he loved the Klatch and all of its insanity. That’s what brought him to the Federation and brought him here, though he made sure to stand close by the escape pod so that he wouldn’t be involved in the slaughter that was about to take place.

The real army was still up in the battle cruiser and he had to make sure to lead these fools close enough in so that operation meat shield would start with a success.

*****FIVE MINUTES TO LANDING***** an automated voice came on in the cabin. Adrenaline rushed through the recruits, one accidentally discharged his weapon into the bulkhead, piercing a pipe and causing steam to rush in.

"Ahhh don’t worry about that, it’s not vital to the ship." Lt. Harris said. He gave a quick look around hopped into his pod and pushed the button, ejecting him from the shuttle on a preprogrammed course back to the main battle group.

Pvt. Cook was about to say something about the chain of command but before he could get anything out the shuttles engines gave out and free fell to the ground below.


Luckily for the troops, luck depending on point of view, the ship managed to land safely albeit upside down in a swampy bog which cushioned their fall. Without thinking they all unbuckled their seatbelts and immediately fell onto the roof. The design of the shuttles seemed to have anticipated this possibility for the main door was hinged at the top rather than folding out onto a platform on the bottom, so the troops were all able to walk out as if they had landed properly in a properly designed ship.


"WOOO" "CHARGE" "HEEYYYAAA” They screamed as they ran out and immediately became stuck in the swamp. And there they waited until they figured out how to get out or something came to attack them.

OOC: Er, Jiggady you seem to have gotten ahead of yourself (or the thread actually) a bit so I hope you don't mind this tweek...

Coastal Swamp, South Benjia

Almost four hours after landing in the muck and mire of the Benjian swamp a swamp buggy appeared in the distance. It was obviously freindly, flying a massive Federal Klatchian Flag. The huge fan on the back slowed as a few over-eager young troopers took some pot shots at it. Lucky for them it was a fairly brackish swamp so the Klatchian Crocs perfered less salt in their water. Otherwise the Jiggians would likely would have been quickly devoured before even entering battle.

After the enclosed swamp buggy sat there for a moment, a small man in a black bowler appeared out the top hatch of the vehicle. He held a simple megaphone up to his mouth, the squeal of feedback cut through the air like a knife.

"Well done folks...it seems to successfully got into the theater with a minimum of casualties before landing! Give yourselves a hand!" He stood there smiling his fake smile for a moment. "We will be sending out some hovercraft to pull you out of this muck soon so hold on..."

He waved and then dropped back down into the cabin. He looked back at the two represenatives of SARJ Corporation. "Well then, a zero point landing, no officer present upon landing, and your 60 km off target and in an inaccessable swamp. I've never seen a more blatent case of actually winning the contract by the skin of your teeth in all my years. However, you did get 90% of the troops in the feild deployed. So you made the cut gentlemen. He picked up a small clip board and signed the bit of paper on it.

"Well here is the final approval form for your contract, now should I let you get out to rejoice with your troops? Or are you going to buy me a nice bottle of scotch in appreciation?"

OOC: Post moved AND added to in the IC thread.

OOC: Skipping the QUETZAL convo, can't for the life of me write one right now.

IC: The message buzzed through the Terran (OOC: Discian?) Ansible network, transfered instantaneously to its destination, the Klatchian General Petterson.

Mr. Petterson,
The Chimera Mercenary company has seen your request for freelance forces. We have reviewed your notice, and find it acceptable. Payment shall be discussed on arrival of the 1st and 3rd Glittery Boy Legions.

Yours,
General Jordan Antioch

-Do we have the manpower to participate in this venture? Especially given the recent Vaadian movements in Karmanyaka and also our commitments to Clairmont.
-We certainly do. But, to assuage your fears, High General, I shall personally contact the Landgravine and ask specifically what is needed and what we can offer. Obviously, a broad based Klatchian effort is needed here. I'm sure even if each member state offered a division or two that this should be more than enough to establish a beachhead. That would be at least 20 divisions since the larger states should be able to contribute more personnel.
-Remember that this effort is limited by the Var logistical capacity. Unless DGNT, New Shiron and Atlantian Outcasts can offer help in this area. Given the fact that New Shiron have recently moved most of their citizenry, it would be doubtful that they can offer assistance here. And we don't even know the tech level of the more recent states such as National Emo, The Foylands, Fodmodmadtol, and Quintessentially. Could they help?
-Well, I need to make further inquiries. But a general appeal throughout the Klatch should suffice.
-I also don't think we can rely upon our allies at the moment for this venture. The Order is bogged down with the situation in Clairmont and to a lesser extend, Mercury.
-We could reach out to possible diplomatic avenues that we have been considering. For example, Vegana, Reichskamphen, and perhaps Dhurthrak. There are also the nations that helped us in the Neo Tyr situation, such as Hirgizstan and Kriegorgrad. Even LRR offered moral support in that arena. And Der Angst has always been a nation that we ought to cultivate closer relations - despite their tendencies to be close to the Yut and NDA camp.
-No. We cannot expect outsiders that we have little to no contact with to help the Klatch. By Bok's maw, you know how we proceed in this regard. Contact first then trade. We don't start signing military compacts right away. Aside from the FKC itself, being part of the Order has only benefitted us in part by reducing conflicts of interest. To date, no one has ever questioned our loyalties and where we stand.
-Still, it may not hurt to invite those nations in a mercenary capacity. Some may be inclined for this type of adventure.
-I would like to see the Klatchian response first. Already, we have outsiders coming in. We will have to monitor their presence carefully since they may have territorial ambitions of their own.
-True. I shall bring up that concern with the Landgravine.

====

**********
Encryption - MED; FKC protocols 8177901 Delta Tango; route: all FKC member states; route....complete
**********

As you are probably aware, the Klatch is about to embark upon a grand adventure. At the moment, we are asking all Klatchian states to review their military commitments and deployment schedules and seriously consider offering assistance in the endeavour. We suggest that states with FTL or similar technology review their heavy-lift capabilities.

More details will be forthcoming. Further questions can be directed to the Landgravine. This issue will also certainly be discussed within Parliament.

We thank you in advance for your commitment.

To:General Jordan Antioch

From: General Petterson, Joint Defense Forces,
Infantry Support Unit Command, Area X

Subject:
1st and 3rd Glittery Boy Legions

Stagging for the mission is occuring in Fasta, a port on the Southern Coast of the FKC. Please make sure that you approach from the south as our eastern and western neighbors are on high alert at the moment.

Negotations on payment and price schedules will be handled by my staff upon arrival.

Fasta

The City wasn't much of anything to talk about, except for the size of the massive dome which had been built to protect it from nuclear attack. Of course the Benjian captial was now under the control of the Federal Government, and they had built a huge naval/air base on the western shore of the bay Fasta's dome loomed over.

It was a massive facility, including dry docks large enough to stick two supercarriers in, a prison facility, and likely the world's largest concentration of concrete quansut huts known to man. And it was obviously in the process of orginizing something big, as there were apparently several divisions worth of armor in nice ordered rows waiting for loading.

Soaring above the planet (OOC: disk?), the pair of Argos super-transports gracefully entered the atmosphere, descending towards the city of Fasta, glowing red as they plunged towards the landing zone. Slowing their descent, they came to a rest at the sites prepared for them.

Stepping from the massive transports, over twenty thousand brightly gleaming suits of Glitter Boy power armor marched down, assembling in ranks in the fields outside of the ships, prepared for inspection by their employers.

OOC: Damn my typing skills. It's Glitter Boy, not glittery boy. Blargh. Feel free to look at the pretty suits of super-battle armor

(OOC: Nope regular NS earth, we just imported a sense of the absurd)

As the twenty thousand troops in Glittering armor appeared, they got some odd looks. But no one really stopped to gawk. Various peices of equipment went rolling by but no one seemed to have the time to stop.

After twenty minutes of standing in the hot, southern Klatchian sun with the humidity slowly approaching 90%, a rover appeared.

The vehicle contained a driver, two women almsot unmarked uniforms, and a very tall dragon like creature. The rover stopped halfway down the ranks as both women and the dragon exited to inspect a company of battle dressed troops.

The short brunette seemed to have a permant scowl and was wearing a gray uniform with a single silver star and the name Petterson above the heart. She obviously was the kind of woman who was built like a short brick wall, her Vrakian ancestors were likewise small, compact and tough.

The much more attractive, athleticly built blond seemed to look at the armor with indiffrence. Her kaki uniform had a small silver cross on the prussian style collar with a golden griffen over a tab of black. The blue eyes seemed to take in the whole scene and each individual uniform. Rather than come off as a panther observing possible prey. She obviously fell into that class of woman who seems to be a graceful statue built around a core of tempered tungstun.

The dragon creature wore a long, dark blue robe with silver trimming. He(she?) was pondering the armor more closely. The red eyes seemed to focus in on every minute detail of the suits and the men inside. The Var was impossible to judge since he was obviously an alien of some sort.

Finally the Var stopped the group as he nodded head. "Either they are quite er..." He said something in a diffrent tounge and the blond finally replied.
"vain..." Her obvious accent sounded Afrikanan.
"Yes, vain. Perhaps it is designed to be reflective of energy weapons. If so I would like to see the full spectrum refractive index."

The General spoke again, "Quite Karlord, so what's your overall opinon of them?"

"Is it not a statement of someone that they may be as sound as the rocks of er..."

"The Dark Reef, or as weak as the trunk of a Bethume tree..." The blond answered again.

There was of course general nodding between the two women, the Var just shook his head back and fourth.

Operation Walrus Breifing Book

Area of Operations:

All Forces Will Be Assigned to a Sector Command Based on the Map (http://www.eng.auburn.edu/users/donatgw/sectors.jpg) provided

Sector Command Shall task each force to a mission Goal. These Mission Goals will consist of the three following grades:

Alpha Goals: Primary Mission Target-Should be taken in least amount of time. Enemy Force Reduction is Secondary to securing the Mission Target.

Beta Goals: Primary Enemy Location - Should be taken with due diligence to causing most destruction on enemy forces. Enemy Force Reduction is equal to that of taking the target

Gamma Goals: Primary Enemy Location, Not Considered Mission Critical. Should be taken with primary focus on reduction/destruction of enemy forces. Primary goal is reduction of enemy forces.

Logistics Command

All logistics shall be handled by logistics command. Logistics command will attempt to facilitate all needs of units operating in the feild.

Common Equipment

Forces asked to station themselves in key tactical locations will be supplied with the following equipment for the construction of temporary housing/basing

The Modular Depot Unit (MDU) (http://www.eng.auburn.edu/users/donatgw/klatchworld/mdu-logo.jpg)
Developed as a housing/office unit the MDU expands out from the standard size cargo container. Can be located to the ground using provided stakes.

Modular Energy Unit
The MEU is designed to provide both portable water and energy to the camps or other installations as needed. It also is capable of waste remediation.

Enemy Forces
Basics:
The planet we are retaking was orginally colonized by the Varian Empire, in the form of the Lords of Trade, to act as a Plantation Planet.

Several high value plants were grown on the planet surface. These crops were primarily tended to by the Kafnar. Their work was overseen by the Kafkar.

Enemy Species (Kafnar)
A humanoid creature about 1.3 meters in height. They tend to have tusks growing out of their nostrils and have a light, bristle type hair. Only considered semi-intelligent. Tend to be called boars by Terrans.

Enemy Species Kafkar
The Kafkar are a Usine type humanoid approximatly 2 meters in height. Both physically and mentally superior to the Kafnar, they were used as the primary servants of any Var on the planet as well as most of the administrative staff.

Population Map
Both the Kafnar and Kafkar appear to still be present on the planet in decent population sizes. It would also appear that the Kafnar have actually developed beyond that of the simple minded creatures first encountered by the Var.

Major Kafnar and Kafkar settlemenst have been generally located on the map provieded.
Kafnar settlements are in green
Kafkar settlemsents are in red

The military planners looked over the brief that was provided. The closest forces that could be sent to the main marshalling area would be those in the Vrakian corridor. At the moment, it was decided that one brigade of tanks, one of heavy artillery, and two heavy infantry could be mobilized and sent fairly quickly. Forces from the core Middle and North East HORDE districts would be sent to reinforce the corridor itself. Communications were sent to Dyelli Beybi informing them of Vrakian troops once again passing through but that nope, no one was invading from the south. This was the main artery since there was no major connection linking Vrak and Fasta Benji directly. More can come, they assured the walrus operation planners, but we have to do some juggling.

Inquiries were also made to Logistics if close air support such as A-10s or attack helicopters could also be sent. The planners were wary of sending in troops without air cover.

As well, an extra “lifting off” point was also proposed. It just so happened that when Vrak was sending settlers to Mercury to fulfill Order requirements, a ramshackled space port called Jump City sprang up in the middle of the Nef. It was also a defacto marshalling area for troops sent to Clairmont via the Tappee super cargo haulers. After the Order lost its grasp on the first planet, Jump City (unofficially billed as the largest garage sale in the Klatch) has fallen into disrepair, despite the blood letting still raging in Clairmont. Could this area be used? It was situated closer to LOW. No mention was made of how the local economy would benefit. Not that there is much out in the Nef. Probably some rogue Djel nomads and the other crazies that the Vrak military recruited for their special ops. Once their aggression was properly channeled, they were extremely fierce fighters.

As well, TDP tech was absolutely estatic when they heard that there was another opportunity to see their portable vats in action. Seems as though the Vrakian military just placed a rush order.

On an unrelated note, a sociologist was charting the birth rates in geographical areas where it was known that military personnel would frequent. He was wondering if there would be a small spike like the last time Vrak sent troops to Dyelli Beybi.

Encryption level High, Code JDF Z11-0D55
************
To: Vrak High Command
From: Logistics Command, Project Walrus

Item 1: Presently air support is being orginized by JDF units. But State allocations would be useful. However they will have to be sent 'packed' I.E. in Deep Space Transport Pods

Item 2: Var drop ships are easier to load/unload while docked in water. The loading of forces from the Jump point could be done. However, we would be limiting to objects placed in Deep Space Transport Pods rather than drop ships.

Item 3: We will have approximatly 5,000 LOW Space Marines to drop on to 'trouble' spots. Please Consult with the Privy Council on more sensitive matters.

OOC: Note additions to beifing book

To: Klatchian Command
From: General Jordan Antioch
Subject: Deployment Orders

Sirs,

The 1st and 3rd Chimeran Legions are prepared to deploy. Please supply us with a location and objectives. Also, information on the approximate technological level of the enemy would be appreciated, as would details on their armament.

Yours,
General Jordan Antioch
Chimera Mercenary Outfit

OOC: Info on Glitter Boys. (http://s6.invisionfree.com/International_Mall/index.php?showtopic=2192)

OOC: Reposting from the OotS forums. Some background knowledge on Vrak getting some new toys. Most likely, the first IC knowledge of this will come out at a marshalling area.

IC:


To: Vrak military procurement division
From: Sketchian economic relations office
Subject: RE: Powered armor

After careful consideration on part of the Sketchian defense office, We have decided to allow our primary arms manufacturering contractor to bid on your contract specifications. We hope that you will find their services to be as satisfying as we have.

Please find enclosed bid statement from Golan Arms. Golan Arms has been cleared for direct lines of communication for purposes of this contract bid.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: Vrak military procurement division
From: Golan Arms
Subject: RE: Powered armor

We at Golan Arms are pleased to make available to our good Vrakian friends the future of infantry warefare - the AS-205 A2 Stalker unit. (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=6491076&postcount=4) You may recognize this fine piece of military hardware as part of the bleeding edge technology which allows Sketch to remain a dominant force on the battlefield. No longer simply a novelty tactical unit, the original AS-205 Stalker units have served in the SGSDF with distinction. You will find the service record of the AS-205 to be impeccable, and with the newest version avaible to you now, better than ever. Even with each unit costing roughly six point four million USD equivilents, you will find the price well worth it, especially if its to equip a unit as illustrious as the King's Own.

We understand that the initial bid parameters specified an infantry scale power armor for purposes of utilizatin with troop transports. However, because of the unique design and capabilities of this unit, we believe that it will fulfill your needs better than a mere powersuit. A single unit packs the firepower of an entire platoon while maintaining the same high mobility of one. Although not designed for deep space operation, the class four enviromental seal is meant to handle some of the harshest conditions imaginable. With the proper outfitting and training, a unit armed with the AS-205 A2 Stalker can handle just about any situation.

We at Golan Arms look foward to doing business with you.



The analysts within the procurement division looked over the latest Sketchian offer. At 6.4 million dollars, it was more expensive than they thought but then not unreasonably so. Some still wanted to see if they could get a smaller power unit while others argued that this particular type of powered armour could be incorporated into Vrakian warfare doctrine fairly easily. Logistical concerns were now brought to the forefront as the analysts poured over more specific details. Some still believed that the regular tank still had a role since it was equipment they were more familiar with.

The details of the powered armour were passed along to those more familiar with the upcoming Klatchian campaign. They shared the same concerns as the previous group and inquiries were made to the Var as to exactly the nature of their heavy lift capabilities. Also, planet-side conditions such as terrain were inquired but it seemed that the powered armour would be up to the task in that respect. As far as the Vrakian knew, they weren’t sure if there were any large cities at the destination.

Final approval was given for the purchase of the armour and also to see if the Sketchian company Golan Arms would be interested in building a plant within Vrak itself.

Still, some wanted to pursue a smaller type of armour and so it was decided to leave the original offer tabled to all Order nations. It would be interesting to see if others would be able to fit the bill.

====

To: Golan Arms
From: Vrak Military Procurement division
Subject: Stalker units

We have been given approval for the purchase of 830 AS-25 Stalker units. We require and will purchase the necessary logistical infrastructure that accompanies this particular brand of equipment. As well, training time and a core of advisors is also needed since we have a timetable of less than one month before departure for the mission we see the Stalkers suited for.

We normally don’t like to rush like this, but we didn’t anticipate this project to be given the green light since it was left on a shelf collecting dust, as it were.

The specifics of delivery and monetary payment is attached. Expect a letter of credit from Power Banking Inc. within 1 day.

We look forward to dealing with your company in the future.

====

The Economic affairs always smelt an opportunity when it arose. Clearly, Vrak was becoming even more international with significant global players now making their home in the capital. With the acquisition of some Santa Barbaran companies, the other purchases through the KIOF, this government branch was confident that an opportunity can be had for Sketch as well. While inquires were made through official government channels, an initial proposal was sent to Golan Arms directly.

====

To: Golan Arms
From: Vrak Economic Affairs division
Subject: Plant production proposal

We have heard of the procurement division purchasing the Stalker units. Congratulations! We are sure that this will only be the first step in further strengthening our economic ties.

Speaking of which, we would like to know if your company would consider building a production facility within Vrak itself. We have a free trade economic zone in our capital specifically catering for Order members but alas, there hasn’t been much interest. We blame that on ourselves, since we haven’t been promoting it as much lately.

Still, you wouldn’t be alone if you do. Companies such as Stevenson Shipbuilding Inc., Snow Canyon Industries, and Cold Star might be familiar to you. They were once companies found with Santa Barbara but have found new homes within the Klatch. As well, we have constructed several “mega factories” from Santa Barbara.

But the Klatch is big and full of opportunity. A production facility devoted to Stalker units or, quite frankly, any other item that you believe our military could use is most welcome.

We look forward to discussing this proposal with you hopefully within the near future. Thank you for your consideration and again, congratulations!



Coporate executives always knew a windfall when they saw one. The potential profits to be had here were enough to make even the most jaded marketer drool with anticipation. This was Golan Arms' chance to breakout into the true cutting edge military market. And with their competitors still bound by the Sketchian military technology classifcation contract clauses, it will be sometime before competition could catch up. It would be difficult for an outsider to truely understand. The Sketchian military jealously guarded their weapons technology, often times forcing contractors into detrimentally constrictive contract agreements. The only thing that kept companies coming back were the ridiculously lucrative and longterm purchase deals. Even then, only a few of the largest and most innovative defense contractors have been able to survive. Golan Arms was one of the smaller of those few, specializing in infantry level weapon systems. The company had been facing some stiff competition from another weapons conglomerate, Zaltin United. While Zaltin United could never hope to compete with Golan Amrs in production capability, they have been able to out design the competition at just about every turn. Their success lay in the fact that Zaltin United was not a single entity, but many defense system companies which have come together under one banner to compete against the larger, politically favored contractors.

However, even with their superior R&D, Zaltin United was now hopelessly outgunned. For the game here was dictated by politics, and Golan Arms had all the aces. Unbeknownest to the Vrakians, Zaltin United had tried to bid on the Vrakian contract, but was denied permission; the same permission that was granted to Golan Arms. The official statement was that the initial bid offer included proprietary Sketchian military technology that was not yet authorized for allied de-classification. It was well-known, however, that the Sketchian military did not trust the multi-corporated Zaltin United conglomerate to adhere to the classification clause. In the past, there had been cases of less than discrete relases of sensitive information by individual companies within Zaltin United. If it weren't for the fact that Zaltin United has always been able to consistently produce superior technology, they would never have survived such scandals.

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

To: Vrak Military Procurement division
From: Golan Arms
Subject: RE: Stalker units

We are pleased that your government has decided to approve the purchase of eight hundred and thirty (830) AS-205 A2 Stalker units. We are fully confident that you will find our product to fulfill your every tactical need. So confident in fact, that our company's standard policy is to allow each and every customer a one (1) week trial period in which we encourage you to do your best in finding any non-compliant specification. If you are to be unsatisfied in any way, we will gladly remove provide you full refund upon return of the product.

As for your other concerns of logistics, training, any additional equipment, we at Golan Arms take great pride in providing our customers with a complete combat systems package. As part of the six point four (6.4) million USD equivilents cost of a single Stalker unit, you will also receive the entire standard armament suite we designed for use with it (munitions not included), our standard combat training programs, our standard maintenance equipment and training programs, AI piloting package, and on-site (non-combat locations only) consultation for three (3) weeks.

Because of your large order, we have also taken the liberty of securing a SGSDF officer from the Stalker first division, the SturmKoenige to assist with your tactical training. Given your investment, we strongly recommend that you take advantage of utilizing the knowledge of captain Konrad Faust. Captain Faust will be accompanying our first shipment of 50 (50) units. Included in that shipment you will receive the bulk of the additional items needed to operate the AS-205 A2 Stalker. After delivery of the first batch, you shall receive a new shipment of one hundred (100) units every two (2) days.

As part our full service package, we also have available several generous payment plans that you can take advantage of. We at Goan Arms understand the need of governments to maintain a respectable level of public service, even during times of large budget expenditures. To this end, we offer our good faith payment system - you may defer up to half the cost per unit upon delivery until such a time that the unit is used in combat or one (1) year, which ever comes first. We have found that this payment system has proven quite benefitial for less wealthy governments expecting big returns on their investments.

The first shipment of your newly purchase Stalker units will be delivered within six (6) hours, you can expect to receive it within the next eighteen (18) hours. We aniticapte deliveries to be completed within seventeen (17) days.

==========

To: Vrak Economic Affairs division
From: Golan Arms
Subject: RE: Plant production proposal

We at Golan Arms are always looking to improve relations with foreign powers. Especially with those who are allies of Sketch. Needless to say, we are most definitely interested in building a production plant within your free trade economic zones. However, it must be undertood that Golan Arms maintains a relation with the Sketchian government which can be considered very unique to those unfamiliar with inner economic workings of Sketch. All our military technologies are considered to be classified state secrets until such a point in time that the state deems it fit to declassify them. In the unique case of your purchase of the AS-205 A2 Stalker units, the Sketchian government has granted us clearance to provide such classified technologies to the allied entity of Vrak - you. However, although we do not anticipate great difficulty in being allowed to set up production facilities for the AS-205 A2 Stalker unit, we cannot guarantee the clearance to produce future technologies for Vrak. Until such a time that we can be sure of frequency and profitability of future clearances for transferance of classified technologies between the entities of Sketch and Vrak, we must politely decline the offer to build a Stalker production plant within Vrak. However, Golan Arms does have an extensive line of declassified military technologies that we do have general production faicilites designed to produce that can easily be built anywhere. These weapons factories have proven to be profitable for both us and the host region in the past. We would be more than pleased to have the opporunity build one within your free trade economic zones.


OOC: Ack! I can't multiply but now it is fixed. 830 suits each at 6.4 million bucks (830 * 6 400 000) = 5 312 000 000 dollars (5.3 billion). A significant amount of dollars. Even for Vrak.

-Well. What do you think of that?
-This little price tag is over five billion dollars USD. A fair chunk of change.
-But well worth it. Do you see that they offered us a declassified line of military technologies? Incredible. We should have done this before.
-Great. Cheap knock-offs.

The first walrus growled and glared at his colleague. The second walrus issued a warning rumble of his own and both stared at each other for at least five minutes.

-Don’t be so quick to write this off. It represents a leap that we’ve been long looking for. Besides, do we share our highly classified technology with anyone? Does anyone? This opportunity is excellent.
-I really don’t see how.
-Think for a moment. Sketch is willing to offer us declassified technology. And unlike you, I have done some poking around. Their hardware is comparable to Yut technology. Don’t you remember when about six ToY members attacked Sketch and he took them all on? It was a long time ago and we only have some incomplete information. But that is enough for me to be a believer.
-Hmmmph.
-And think of this. We can sell this hardware to other interested Klatchian states. Provided that proper procedures are in place, with Sketch having the final word in that. Think of how the Klatch benefits as a whole.
-I prefer that we research our own technologies. They did not consent in building a production facility for the Stalker units here. Sending them all to….
-We won’t send them all. Only enough to serve in a niche role and, more importantly, to see how they operate. Besides, our own research efforts have been lagging as of late. Yes, we have the SOATs and some other gems from the war booty. But we haven’t progressed as far as I would have liked to have seen.
-You are not the final word on that and neither am I.
-Well, a reply is in order. We can bring this up with Economic Affairs within the hour. Let’s see what they think. If they show wisdom, they will agree with me.
-Sometimes, Intelligence Director, I wonder if you always stack the deck.

====

To: Golan Arms
From: Vrak Economic Affairs
Subject: plant production proposal

We certainly do understand your position. At the moment, the matter of allowing Sketchian de-classified technology to set up shop within Vrak is currently under discussion. We shall keep you posted as soon as a decision is reached.

====

To: Golan Arms
From: Vrak Military Procurement Division
Subject: Stalker units

We look forward to seeing these new units in action. Please find attached the delivery point for the units. We will also take advantage of your deferral policy but will ask to only defer 30% of the cost. The 70% will be included in the first payment.

We will need munitions as well. Enough for a fairly sustained campaign. Exact details can be worked out with our logistical personnel upon the first shipment’s arrival.

The two ships emerged from fold space as two looming behemoths flanked by 4 destroyers. It was clearly some kind of troop transports unmarked and all in black with additions and coverings on the original structure. They hovered in neutral space while transmitting a message to the governement about their intentions and their price.

Their offer was simple. A full brigade of 10,000 shocktroops and armour. The price was high, actually in the top end but their commander; Colonel Sanchez explained that the quality of the troops and their equipment was worth it.

Meanwhile in Vegana City

-"Are you sure this is the best way of testing out new equipment?"

-"Could it be better? A live opportunity without risk of an extended conflict! Everything we sent with them is Topnotch and it could mean that we will get answers we would never get trying them out on a test range or on the usual cannonfodder. This will mean we can get an opportunity to test out not only weapons but also tactics!"

The first man nodded and scribbled a signature on the paper in front of him.

-"I expect regular reports..."

To: Vrak Military Procurement division
From: Defense Industry Conglomerate of Clairmont
Subject: Powered Armour

The multitude of Clairmontian Defense Industries have been in the business of producing and designing powered combat suits for infantry troops for as long as they have existed. For your request of Powered Armour, we refer to you the Model PBA-7/XE "Spectre" Light Powered Armour and the Model ACS-1/S --> http://sivut.koti.soon.fi/villerainamo/BDUs&PBAs.htm (ref. The 1st Generation ACS Suit and the Spectre Light Powered Armour, I havent updated their descriptions wth the latest ideas and modifications.)

The Spectre represents a more traditional approach to enhancing trooper firepower and survivability in the field. The Spectre is mainly designed to provide a trooper with extensive environmental support, protection against low caliber small arms and shrapnell as well as enhanced agility, strength and carrying capability. The armour contains several systems that enhance a troopers capabilities in the field. Extensive datalinking systems allow a trooper to link with multiple units and data feeds in a military network, for example allowing a trooper to transmit what he sees to a nearby JSTAR Ground Target Surveillance Aircraft. The XE version also contains several features designed to optimize the power usage. The artificial musculature is automated to use only 10% of its full power consumption when out of combat and conducting regular maneuvers. Upgraded battery also provides operational duration upto 105 hours before rechage or battery replacement is required. The Spectre is relatively easy for logistics and maintenance. Most of the electrical components are standard issue and modular in order to be easilly replaced. The armor plating is modular and easilly replaceable even in field conditions. Specialized components are only part of the power system, the helmet electronics and the power assisted musculature.

The ACS-1 or Armored Combat Suit is on the other hand a more in the line of heavully enhancing trooper lethality, survivability and endurance. Heavy environmental support systems as well as medical and combat support utilities make the suit an extremely flexible component for enhancing troopers. Bulkier and larger by far than the Spectre, the ACS is more heavully armored, with more implemented features and enhances a troopers physical performance far more. ACS units are extremely well co-ordinated and linked together for sharing data. An ACS commander has access to the sensor feed of all nearby ACS suits and the integration to military data networks can be executed seamlessly. The extensive features of the ACS however come with a cost, as the unit price per suit gallops to 1.5 Million Clairmontian Dollars (= 1.7 USD) and the training time required for a trooper to effectively utilize a suit in combat is extensive. The endurance is also lower, peaking at 73 Hours and the suit contains more sophisticated systems that are hard if not impossible to repair on the field. However, the physical performance and combat enhancements allow an ACS trooper to carry extremely heavy weaponry while still maintaining mobility far in excess of that of any unsuited Infantry Trooper.

The Conglomerate is prepared to deliver a testing batch of 30 of each suit with all their additional equipment including weapons and modular mission equipment.

Unit Prices:
Spectre: 215,000 C$
ACS-1: 1.5 Million C$


-Well, what you do think of this offer?
-Now, this is what I mean. A smaller suit for our troops and leaving the heavy work for the tanks.
-We've already committed to the Stalker units.
-That is fine. Really, there is no reason why we can't integrate the two. Personally, I'm leaning towards the Spectre units myself. Smaller and easier to maintain.
-Well, yes. But don't forget that they already have the logistical train to do this. We may not be able to take full advantage of either the stalker or spectre suits.
-Perhaps not and yes, I agree that our logisitics has to play catch up. Sketch is sending a complete package though. I think Clairmont would be willing to do the same.

====

To: Defense Industry Conglomerate of Clairmont
From: Vrak Military Procurement Division
Subject: Stalker and ACS-1 suits

We want to thank you for your interest in our particular needs. We would like to take delivery of 30 Stalker and 30 ACS-1 suits. Please find attached the delivery points and expect a letter of credit from Power Banking Inc within 1 day.

As well, since we don't have the logistical capacity to fully service these suits, we would like to arrange a package that can meet this deficiency. That is, training, parts, repair equipment, etc... all need to be accompanied with the suit. Would you be willing to send a team of experts and trainers to work closely with our military planners so as to derive the maximum benefits of the suits? We look forward to hearing from you.

====

To: Defense Industry Conglomerate of Clairmont
From: Vrak Economic Affairs
Subject: Free trade zone

We have a free trade zone exclusively for Order members. Sadly, we haven't been advertising it as much as we should have. However, would you be interested in exploring that option? Already, we have such notable names in that zone already: Stevenson Shipbuilding Inc., Snow Canyon Industries, and Cold Star. We are also currently in negotiations with a Sketchian interest. We would like to add your name to this list.

We would like to see your company set up production facilities within Vrak. The market would not only be Vrak of course, but the potential market of over 60 billion plus consumers within the Klatch itself. The opportunities are, in a word, limitless.

We look forward to discussing this proposal with you hopefully within the near future. Thank you for your consideration and congratulations on selling your suits to the Procurement division!

To: Vrak Military Procurement division
From: Defense Industry Conglomerate of Clairmont
Subject: RE: Spectre and ACS-1 suits

Delivery of the testing batch can be arranged within a week despite current situation at mainland Clairmont. Also, this is a testing batch for loan, essentially the Conglomerate loans the equipment for as long as you require to conduct testing and trials after which if decision is made to purchase the units they can be bought but otherwise returned.

While the current war situation is stretching the limits of our assets, it is possible to dispatch sufficient logistical support with the testing batch. This will include training, technicians to provide information for the construction of logistics and production facilities, materials essential for operation as well as training manuals and repair teams. The arrival of the aforementioned can be realistically expected within two weeks.


To: Vrak Economic Affairs
From: Defense Industry Conglomerate of Clairmont
Subject: Free Trade Zone

The option you have proposed does merit closer investigation to the possibilites of such a relationship and if the current war ends in victory, you can certainly expect the Conglomerate to be willing to join in such a venture.

To: Vrak Military Procurement division
From: Defense Industry Conglomerate of Clairmont
Subject: RE: Spectre and ACS-1 suits

Delivery of the testing batch can be arranged within a week despite current situation at mainland Clairmont. Also, this is a testing batch for loan, essentially the Conglomerate loans the equipment for as long as you require to conduct testing and trials after which if decision is made to purchase the units they can be bought but otherwise returned.

While the current war situation is stretching the limits of our assets, it is possible to dispatch sufficient logistical support with the testing batch. This will include training, technicians to provide information for the construction of logistics and production facilities, materials essential for operation as well as training manuals and repair teams. The arrival of the aforementioned can be realistically expected within two weeks.

To: Defense Industry Conglomerate of Clairmont
From: Vrak Military Procurement Division
Subject: delivery of items

We are quite aware of your situation and we thank you for helping us. We believe that your equipment is more than up for the task.

In regards to your situation, we expect that our government will be increasing their level of commitment.

====


To: Vrak Economic Affairs
From: Defense Industry Conglomerate of Clairmont
Subject: Free Trade Zone

The option you have proposed does merit closer investigation to the possibilites of such a relationship and if the current war ends in victory, you can certainly expect the Conglomerate to be willing to join in such a venture.

To: Defense Industry Conglomerate of Clairmont
From: Vrak Economic Affairs
Subject: Free trade zone

We understand. We will begin to make initial surveys since we believe that those blokk pakrah dogs of the Imperium shall fall and that your proud nation will once again rise up.

====

-Ah...I think we can commit more. A re-deployment here should do it.
-And of Ilek-Vaad?
-Not to worry. Our long range bombers will be more of a match for their assets off the coast of Dyelli Beybi. And the Stalker suits will be deployed immediately to the Vrakian corridor to augment our forces there.
-Of Klatchworld?
-We have sufficient forces for that. Now with Vegana on board, I think this invasion will be easier. And think of the experience our troops will get off-world. There are other things to think of here. Colonization and the full development of a real transport FTL fleet. We may have to do some shopping.
-In keeping in line with our "Buy Klatch Buy Order" first policy.
-Of course. This is an exciting time to be living in. SOAT production is up and their battle effectiveness has been noted when they served in Clairmont.
-Right. Now we need tanks, artillery, and basic upgrades to our regular troops.
-Yes, of course. The King's Own will be first to see these advancements. But now even their equipment will be able to be passed down. And, you know, I'm quite positive that our scientists have figured out what those original SOATs were using. Once mass production begins there, our entire military will be leaner, but deadlier.
-No gravships?
-That is a long ways off. A long long long long ways. Unless LOW decides to give us a ship to analyze?
-Not likely.
-Quite. So, we make do with what we have. There are other prototypes and there is also the equipment from New Cynthia. Remarkable in some ways how the war booty is similar.
-Diplomatically, we can explore initial relation with the countries that have decided to send merc forces. Carefully though, since we don't know exactly the relationship between the mercs and their regular government.
-Right. I doubt a regular government would send their best troops to be employed by another nation.
-Remember to keep an eye on them. I have to talk with the Landgravine about this matter.

Klatch's eternal hernia, Dyelli Beybi hadn't turned up yet, probably because the Dyellians were too busy slaughtering each other while flat out denying their was a Civil War going on in the State. It was only a matter of time though before one of the Factions noticed what was going on and came rollicking in like an embarasingly drunk uncle at a Wedding.

It was probably no surprise that the Faction that noticed the fact that space ships were landing in Fasta Benj first were the East Benjians, who assuming this was some kind of attempt by the Empire forces to destroy Benjian semi-autonomy, decided it would be a good idea to mobilise military units to the Western Border, while at the same time, completely neglecting to ask the JDF and other Klatchians what exactly they were doing.

OOC: holiday post so skimpy details on my part. Can also edit if this post is whacked.

IC:

The railroad convoy snaked its way into the Dyellian state, bound for the jump off point in Fasta Benji. An unsually high level of precaution was being taken, for although items such as tanks and artillery were visible (and not out of place in the militarized Klatch), there were roughly one hundred cars that were completely covered and relatively thickly armoured. For inside, the new purchases from Sketch were housed and were to be used in the conquering of Klatchworld. The military brass wanted to test out these products in a combat environment.

In the now misnamed Vrakian corridor (but still in the vernacular and most likely will never be erased), 200 Stalker units were quietly placed along the border with Dyelli Beybi. Unrest in that southern state always made their northern neighbours nervous, which meant the Vrakians were always edgy. Coupled with the fact that there were actually a Foreign Guard base in Dyelli made the Vrakians even more…edgy.

OOC: Puppet post by Otagia, still waiting on orders? I thought this thing had died. C'mon, haven't had a good FT ground war for ages! Gimme a target!

OOC: This is still alive. Just holidays is all. If I know Alcona, he's got a plan cookin'.

[Vrak, what's the status on merc contracts? Are you guys still accepting takers? I've been toying around with the idea of introducing a merc regiment or two, and this is a perfect opportunity. Sorry about the straight OOCness, but I'd rather not bust in IC only to be told there aren't any slots left.]

New Shiron offers basing, refueling, logistical and shore leave facilities at its primary planet, which is roughly 20 light years from the Klatchworld star system and about 40 light years from the Homeworld.

[Vrak, what's the status on merc contracts? Are you guys still accepting takers? I've been toying around with the idea of introducing a merc regiment or two, and this is a perfect opportunity. Sorry about the straight OOCness, but I'd rather not bust in IC only to be told there aren't any slots left.]

OOC: First off, it's not a problem to make inquiries stricly ooc. The exact contracts are in A&H's hands and, as far as I know, this thread is still open for all interested. I honestly don't know how many slots are available, but I'm guessing we don't want an ungodly amount of people clogging up the thread but we want interested folks in. There also should be in intel briefing in the beginning of the thread. I'm assuming that is handed out to those who arrive? Is that right Alcona?

At the moment, my troops are cutting through DB (which is having a civil war at the moment) on the way to the jump off point in Fasta Benji.

Colonel Blake Jackson was a strange character, both in her appearance and in her chosen profession. From an early age it had been expect that she would follow in her father's footsteps and take up oath of a solider, and perhaps one day command the entire Imperial Army like her father. She had indeed become a soldier, but as a mercenary for hire and not to serve her country of birth. That wasn't due to any disloyalty to the Empress, she had just wanted the opportunity to see other lands and not necessarily have to kill every time she did. Her appearance was strange in that she had the pail complexion and nearly platinum blonde hair of her mother, but that same hair had the kinked and slightly oily traits of her fathers hair. It made her looks as unique and individualistic as her personality.

Upon recieving the most recent issue of Security Contractor Journal, she noticed an add put out from the Klatch for what sounded like a police action. While she didn't particularly like the Klatchians, they would no doubt pay well so long as her regiment completed its contract. She only hoped it wouldn't put her square into the Dyellian Civil War, as that would no doubt be a very nasty conflict for her mostly-Scandavian regiment to be involved in. However, it was a paying job and the recent lack of contracts was putting a cramp in the regiment's coffers.


..::Class 1 Contractual Inquiry, 512kb Encryption::..
TO: General Mar Petterson, Acting head of Support Infantry Unit Command
FR: Colonel Blake Jackson, CO, St. Ives Heavy Cav
SUB: Contract

I am inquiring as to the contract which you put out over the Security Contractor Journal that requested for-hire units to help with a trespassing issue. While I would obviously be eager to accept such a contract, I need to know several things: the latest date my regiment may arrive, anticipated deployment length, threat level, and any other relevent information that I might need to prepare.

My unit is primarily what most would consider a heavy armour force. The regiment has two armour battalions, two mechanized infantry battalions, a helo battalion, an artillery battalion, a forward support battalion, and several company-level support assets. Our tactics center around armour breakthrough and rear area raiding, although our infantry is also capable of taking on limited special operations missions. All of the regiment's gear is the same as what the Imperial Army issues, although we are also expecting the delivery of enough Tactical Assault Suits, which are basically upsized versions of the infantry battlearmour, to equip the heavy weapons squads of my infantry fairly soon.

I look forward to a future working relationship.
..::End Class 1 Message, End Encryption::..


Satisfied that the short message was adequate enough to at least start discussions on a contract, Blake clicked the Send button and went about her other duties, which were many consider that she had command of a reinforced regiment.

At the jump off point in Fasta Benji, the Vrakian railroad cars arrived and began unloading their cargo. Tanks, heavy artillery and thousands of infantry exited and gathered themselves into formation. In truth, it was not just one railway convoy but several and, luckily, they were able to navigate through the unrest in Dyelli Beybi without too many problems. Many reassurances to concerned Dyellians along with underhanded wads of cash to keep the cogs turning guaranteed the safe arrival of the Vrakian equipment. But it made the High Command nervous so the border between the two states were further tightened and inspections now began to take place.

The Stalker units were now unveiled and while technicians ran through their checks, the machines stepped off the platforms and marched into formation. The regular infantry made a path for these small mechas, and while some of the officers snickered, their mere appearance caused most to gasp in awe.

It remained to be seen how they would perform, but now the Vrakian commitment to the Klatchian expedition had finally arrived.

OOC: Sorry folks for my sudden hibernation but the end of the semester rolled around and I had to fill in for a fellow graduate student who had a family emergency (and the mass of paperwork he had to grade) then the holidays showed up and I really didn't have decent internet access (nor time) I should have posted something sooner...

All my appologies to all. Yes this thread is still in progress IC posts coming...

To: Colonel Blake Jackson, CO, St. Ives Heavy Cav
From: General Mar Petterson, Acting head of Support Infantry Unit Command
Subject: Tresspassing Operation

I thank you for your intrest in our endvors Colonel. At present the threat level can only be estimated and varies according to assignment within the threater of operations.

We are currently planning for a contractual deployment of nine months with an operational deployment of six months. However, this is seen as a very conservative plan. However, there is a clause of an automatic renewal at 2.5 times the original contract value if any hired units are still engaged in fighting after the contract expires. If your delayed in returning due to transportation/logistics problems the renewal is pro-rated for the time of the delay in returning to Fasta.

Based on your profile I would say your unit is just what we are looking for as part of the overal operations. Specifically to raid important enemy locations and force them to divert and dilute their strength from tactically more important areas. The primary threats in this type of operation should be standard forces, with large infantry groups armed with semi-automatic rifles, heavy towed artillery, and first generation tanks and rockets.

As for when you need to arrive, as soon as possible actually. Current events in the Klatch proper have caused some shifts in Joint Defense Force allocations. This has delayed the start of the project. Obviously we would like to get back onto schedule as soon as possible but would like to add your forces to the mix rather than wait and see what develops in other areas that the JDF has commitments in.

With best Regards
General Petterson

TO: General Mar Petterson, Acting Head of Support Infantry Unit Command
FR: Colonel Blake Jackson, CO, St. Ives Heavy Cav
SUB: Deployment

In that case, General, I believe we have a tentative agreement. I've been debating just how to transport my forces to the Klatch, and I think I'll send the infantry and logistics people over commercial aircraft and the heavy equipment with their crews. This will give my infantrymen time to know who they'll be fighting with and my support personnel time to integrate with yours.

I noticed that you said the enemy will have first generation equipment; would that happen to be the first generation with alternative gun propulsion (ETC, Light Gas Gun, etc) or the first generation of what we typically think of as tanks? If it's the latter, might I suggest that we start off with raids and progress torwards an open offensive tempo? My fighting battalions are going to be generally invulnerable to such primitive weapons, although repairable mission kills are inevitable, and I think just going after them once we get a feel for the enemy would shorten the duration of the overall operation. Also, commanders used to WWII equipment and tactics would be unprepared to counter the standard bag of tricks.

Anyway, I look forward to meeting you in a couple days.

Sincerely,
Blake Jackson

To: Colonel Blake Jackson
From: Office of General Mar Petterson

Subject: Transportation to Fasta, reference to questions

Fasta unfortunatly is a bit close to the Benjia/Dyellian Border and the only airline still actively operating in and out of the Fasta international airport is Cities Air.
(If you chose this route, I suggest along a good number of 1 krondor coins so that your personel can use the in-flight restrooms, avoid paying for the 'personal entertainment center' as it is a half used remaindered coloring book with two crayons and bring your own water)
Or you could charter a flight. Inform my staff about what flights they will be on and we will send a convoy to transport them to the JDF base Fasta.

If you are sending your heavy forces by sea, my office will provide the proper IFF codes so they can enter Fasta Harbor.

As to the clarification upon enemy tanks, they will be using tanks which appear similar to WWI vehicles. However, little is known about their effectiveness of armor or guns at present. There has been some intelligence that the guns use a highly efficent form of propellent as the rockets appear to be solid fuel but of surprisingly high quality compared to the rest of their tech base.