NationStates Jolt Archive

Davies gave an embrassed cough, "The wardrobe you say? I should probably look in there."

She was looking slightly flushed, and absorbed herself in drinking the glass of water. After she'd finished it, she darted her gaze around the table, "I guess I should get changed... after that I will come and do your mapping thing for you, then the Marshall's can throw me to the lions or whatever it is they do."

----------

"Is this what passes for a justice system in Var country?" Palmer demanded, "You cannot convict because I might have committed a crime. For all you know what you picked up was the pleasure yaucht of the former High Chancellor's wife. The cannons are to keep terrorists away. I believe you will find her in custody somewhere else in this base."

He wasn't about to give up... everything seemed sureal, and damnably frustrating.

---------

"Gavin Palmer?" Collins asked, she was smiling in a slightly bemused way, "What's he done?"

In truth she wasn't quite sure what to make of Patrick. The attention was flattering, and slightly unexpected. It had bee many years since anyone had called her a 'hottie'... she had been married, briefly, and added to that, most Dyellians were frightened of her.

She gave him a smile as he departed, sensing he was probably someone important, "Who was that?" she asked Teddy when she felt he was out of ear shot.

"I keep telling them I am retired," Leo said, accepting the Martini. "But you know what they say about Duty." A moment’s thought made him realize she probably did not. "Well, I suppose you might not. We say," he correct himself. "That 'Duty is an ever present master.'"

Leo Flavius' official record and position on the Drakonian Mission was backed up by both fact and fiction. After graduating college with a Doctorate in Political Science, he worked for a time as an International Analyst for the Prefecture of State, specifically in the Drakonian Intelligence Agency. However, the official and unofficial records split there, as Leo was recruited as a field agent while working as an analyst. While continuing to be official listed as an analyst, he began to work as field agent. He saw service first in East Turkestan, then Isla de Penguinata, in Al Anbar, Fyreheart, and Glorious Humanity, along with a few nations that were part of the KIST alliance, all while on the record as nothing more than an analyst. It was only recently he had been awarded a position

He took his first sip of the Martini, smiling slightly (as one can only smile slightly when drinking strong Vodka) as he enjoyed the drink. There actually was you see a difference in taste between shaken and stirred Martinis. He listened carefully as Chlarissa explained the Intelligence situation. "There are two thing you need to understand. First, the Imperium is here to help Timaru and Moskau however it can, we really do have an altruistic goal, despite the possible benefits to ourselves. (The reputation gained by offering such support to our allies and the act of a good deed is alone enough for us.) Second, that the Imperium's intelligence network is limited in Klatch, due to our limited contact with the Provinces before the Al Anbar conflict. We have managed to establish a small network working through KIST, but we are rather limited in our internal intelligence on the Coast.

"What does the Imperium want," Leo repeated, carefully considering the question. "We want information. Because of our lack of a strong intelligence network in Klatch, we are lacking in a lot of fundamental information about the region, it’s past and present. Our limited knowledge of the situation regarding the Elves destroyed the Nekoa Negotiations. We also want intelligence, information former Cheka agents would have access too. Inside information into current players. For example, the new President of the Federated Klatchian Coast, or is Soult likely to use Weapons of Mass Destruction. Even possible double agents and current Cheka agents operating in the Imperium or remaining Emirates."

He looked to her seeing that she understood. "We are of course willing to exchange whatever assistance we can, and intelligence we can. And provided it either way. We are also glad to help you ferret out as many double agents as possible, within the KGB. Its really the least we can do consider our presence is only drawing more unwanted attention from Klatch."

As he waited for her to process the information and reply, he took another drink of his Martini, commenting quietly to himself (but loudly enough for Chlarissa to hear), "Now this is a Martini."

Davies gave an embrassed cough, "The wardrobe you say? I should probably look in there."

She was looking slightly flushed, and absorbed herself in drinking the glass of water. After she'd finished it, she darted her gaze around the table, "I guess I should get changed... after that I will come and do your mapping thing for you, then the Marshall's can throw me to the lions or whatever it is they do."


"I think your confusing the Marshals with the Romans." one of the women stated. Really they were not very talkative.
----------

"Is this what passes for a justice system in Var country?" Palmer demanded, "You cannot convict because I might have committed a crime. For all you know what you picked up was the pleasure yaucht of the former High Chancellor's wife. The cannons are to keep terrorists away. I believe you will find her in custody somewhere else in this base."


"Entering Enclave waters with an armed private vessel is a crime. The fact that you are considered a pirate based on the situation is irrellevent to your conviction." The unit just kept on going...

The door opened and a tall anglular man walked in. "Patrick Dempsey allied with House Bat'ra Advisor, I would like to speak on the condemed's behalf."

He held up a finger over his mouth to Palmer, indicating he should be quiet.

"Agreed..." the unit stated emotionlessly.

"Galvin Palmer is a former military officer of Dyelli Beybi and was in reserve status. The vessel The Perfect is a military vessel, operating in a time of war. It was ordered into Enclave waters by Klatchian Marshal Davies, as noted in the inital data file."

The unit hummed for a moment, "File found, Agreed that under such circumstances that Palmer is not a pirate. However, file indicates that charges for violating Enclave waters would only occur if he cooperated. This Advisor finds he has not done so."

"I am sure Palmer of Dyelli Beybi will appologize for any attempt to hide the truth from the Advisor. And will testify truthfully and openly upon all matters the Advisor demands the truth of."

*********

"Gavin Palmer?" Collins asked, she was smiling in a slightly bemused way, "What's he done?"

She gave him a smile as he departed, sensing he was probably someone important, "Who was that?" she asked Teddy when she felt he was out of ear shot.

Mr. Teddy replied, "It would appear that Gavin Palmer gave, as Patrick would call it, a smart alec reply once too often."

"Patrick Dempsey allied to House Ba'tra serves as an advisor on Terran Culture."

The Bar

The Var replied, "I find that skulls of human terrans make poor beverage containers. But what freedom do you wish to drink to?"

The Var didn't actually shout, just used the naturally low octave of his voice, and some projection to make himself equally heard around the room

"Yeah maybe." Davies didn't push it.

After she had finished what little food was left on her plate she hurried back to her room to inspect the wardrobe, saying a quick prayer that the Var idea of high fashion was more along the lines of well tailored jackets and less along the lines of clown suits. She couldn't be too sure.

----------

Palmer fell quiet as it seemed that the newcomer might be digging him out of an ever increasing hole. The machine seemed to come up with a conviction first then find a crime that fit.

His eyebrows shot up at the mention of 'Klatchian Marshall Davies', "Marshall?" he mouthed wordlessly at Dempsey.

----------

"He's good at that." Collins commented, "Always seems to have something to complain about, ever since that Commisaar came aboard. She definitely got her claws into him."

"So this Dempsey person? Is he the kind of person who I'd be dealing with if I do end up working for one of your houses?"

"Altruistic mmmhm." Clarissa seemed to mull this word over for a time, "Altruism died a long time ago on this continent."

She sighed, "It's so sad. Klatch is becoming ruled by souless Alconians and Vrakians and crazed megalomaniacs like Soult."

She moved back a few paces, perching herself on the edge of the table, "At least the vodka is good up here... it should be, it's all they drink."

"I can give you what you need." she smiled, "Intelligence on most of what you lack is easy to come by. We don't have sattelites though, I think the Klatchians realise. It means we can be taken by surprise. We know the Vrakians are wandering around up North, but only because we've been told. We would have been none the wiser until they'd crossed the border."

"What do you personally want up here at the end of the world, Mr 'retired' spy?" she asked.

----------

"The freedom." the Genoral replied to the Var, signalling for the barman to pour out glasses of vodka, "The freedom for every sentient person to live without oppression."

It was cold weather gear, almost all in black. Black pants, black/bluish heavy shirts, and a rather fluffy jacket in dark green. Of course there were no shoes.

Arriving back down stairs after changing, Davies was pointed towards the Library. Everyone was there again, standing around a table with a huge blow-up image of the area surrounding Cyro at the scale Davies had asked for. Actually it appeared to be mounted to the top of the table. She was handed a silver pen with a red tip.

"Thank You Commissar, now then would you please indicate where on these images the facility is?"

******
Patrick didn't really catch the words. Just stared at him for a moment, "Well go on appologize." He prodded the Dyellian.

*****
The Doctor raised an eyebrow at that and nodded her head. "Depends on what House hires you. Most of us are aligned to a House from birth, occasionally we are passed between Houses but..."

Mr Teddy shook his head, "You and Dempsey are outsiders by birth. Your lines are not part of a House. However, you must allign yourself with a House, for you and your unborn are Pathi, independent of a House."

"And very few Houses align with Pathi in the first place..." The doctor continued. "Usually only the Great Houses, or the Pathi Houses, but then I don't think the House of Crawford is going to hire a former pirate."

******
The Var picked up a glass of Vodka and held it in his claw. The dark scales and silverish talons seemed to glint slightly. "So you wish to drink from freedom from Oppression for all people? Does that include the pointy eared Terrans of the Gonad, those you call plants, burn as they near your border, and drop chemical weapons upon? Or do you just refer to the Moskovites and their Karski minions?"

"Well, the Imperium has satellites," Leo replied. "And plenty of them watching over these parts, it would be a small matter for me to get your people access to our network. There would be restrictions; I do not think the Drakonian Intelligence Agency wants your people seeing everything we watch on this continent. But you would be able to task and re-task our Military Satellites, as well as get the latest on events we have been monitoring. That Diplomatic Jet we arrived in is fully equipped with a Satellite Uplink."

He paused, thinking for a moment. "However, I can see there might be problems. If your people see these photos then it is quite likely one of your double agents will leak the information back to Klatch. It could serve as a way to smoke out these moles. Klatch will also likely get wind of what we are doing for you, and not appreciate it. They could take potshots at our satellite and blind us both. However, that would only make things worse for both parties."

Leo wet his lips with another drink. "While I am playing diplomat, actually I would like to make a suggestion, if I may, more than just exchanging information that our two agencies work more closely together. First to ferret out any moles we can find in the KGB, then to build our national friend and intelligence networks in Klatch. If we work together, perhaps our two nations can work to overcome the crises we both find ourselves in, avert two wars with Klatch."

"You ask me what I want out here." Leo took another drink of his Martini, finishing it. "Well, let me tell you what brought me here. I said Duty, but what I did not say was Loyalty. A good friend asked me to join the Mission. He said that it was urgent, he said that my experience could be the difference between a war the Imperium was not ready to prevent and the freedom of many people. He warned me, I might have to choose between the two and advised I choose the right one. The right one he knew I would choose, if it came to that. Now I have served my nation many times over, but Loyalty...it something hard to truly describe. Loyalty to home, loyalty to nation, loyalty to all of sentience."

He stopped. "You ask why I am here. I have done much in my time. I have helped stop rebellions, toppled dictators, and thwarted terrorists. I really feel I have made a difference in the world, and I want to make a difference here. If that means I have to arrange a substitute for my classes, and fly out to Knootoss at a moment’s notice and a friend's request...then I will do it.

"But I am sorry." He checked himself. "I sound like a dreamy old college professor preaching philosophy or some nonsense. You probably think I am spouting propaganda, but I really believe this stuff I spout. It hard to describe if you have not grown up in the Imperium, we are very much a nation of idealists." It was odd, he seemed mildly ashamed of his tirade, as he glanced down at the empty glass in his hand, finally setting it down on the table after thoroughly examining it. "And I am just an old soldier, spy discontent to have retired, perhaps."

Davies squinted at the image. She leaned over the table, her eyebrows creasing as she frowned at it. For a while it looked like she was going to stand back and announce, 'I'm lost'. But she didn't. She kept on staring and eventually seemed to spot something she recognised, tracing the pen along the line of a dirt road, tracing along another, running North and East from Cyro, about 30 kilometres where things were starting to get sandy. What she circled was an odd looking facility. It looked like an abandoned bus depot. A big shed and huge carpark.

"No vehicles." she commented, ringing the structure, "It's underground. There always used to be cars and buses around it."

She shrugged, "That's the spot anyway... am I missing something by the way or are there no shoes around here?"

----------

"Oh right." Palmer was jerked into action, "I apologise most profusely for any percieved attempt to hide information. I will make sure I cooperate more in future."

----------

"Hey." Collins raised a hand in protest, "Nobody ever found me guilty of piracy." she was as guilty as sin, but she'd keep repeating that line as nobody had managed to find her guilty.

"But Piracy aside, what am I going to have to do to convince whoever it is I need to convince that I'm useful?" she gave Teddy a reproving glance, "It was you that put the idea in my head in the first place, I never actually came here looking for a job."

"I don't think the Klatchians would fire on your sattelites. It would be unnecessarily provocative." Chlarissa put in.

"There is no need to feel ashamed of what you believe in. Everyone needs something to believe in. I believe that this tiny state represents the dnevnoy to Klatch's nochnoy. Klatch is ruled by a small cadre of aristocrats who don't care in the slightest for the fate of their people. Dyelli Beybi for a while offered something different, but people are greedy and that State has failed. Everyone knew what was coming in the South but nobody did anything, they just sat by idly and hoped that the coup wouldn't come to pass. When they arrested Felix I came North and got connected with some renegade Tercionem... the people they call the Spetsnaz."

She had stood up again, stepping closer to Leo, there was real fire in her eyes when she spoke, "We must hold on to those ideals that we have. We must not compromise. I believe that Klatch should have had a place for all of us. I believe that Timaru and Moskau will. Even if we have to fight for it, we will have this country right on Klatch's doorstep, and the Revolution will spread."

It was her turn to look slightly embarassed, patting Leo on the shoulder, "We should go, I'll drive you to the conference hotel."

----------

The General roared with laughter, "OK, if that's what you want let us drink a drink to the elves. May they see the light of freedom and stop murdering everyone and everything on sight."

He drained the glass of vodka he'd been given.

Admiral Iruk, Supreme Commander of the New Shiron Stabilizing Task Force, frowned as he looked over the information. Thanks to the Vaadians and confirmed by their own satellites, the Scandavian fleet caused him some concern. After all, one of the main reasons why Vrak moved quickly to secure the former New Shiron territories was to prevent any further Vaaadian encroachments. The strife in Karmanyaka left a bad taste in mouth of the Vrak High Command which vowed not to let history repeat itself. By establishing a massive presence here, Vrak could effectively counter any threat posed in the territory.

But, did it leave the mainland exposed? The extensive torpedo net was, as yet, not yet combat tested. Still, it was not like the mainland was completely naked. By his reckoning, there were still 4 projection fleets and five hunter/killer fleets left. Not to mention over half the Guardian fleets which were basically ordered to conduct patrols between North Germania and the ice caps. The rest of the guardian fleets were scattered hither and tither throughout the Klatch, although they took a wide berth around the coast of Dyelli Beybi.

The Second Reinforcement Fleet, led by the able Admiral Urliko, was still watching the Vaadians, although he was glad to see the tensions lessen there. Until the last of the Foreign Guard left, his standing orders were to remain in the theatre.

Those twelve Scandavian cruisers bothered him, but he was quite certain that the JDF were taking care of that. So…what to do?

The last of the reinforcement fleets (the 4th) cleared the straits and were steaming towards Urliko’s position. Lacking in numbers compared to the other reinforcement fleets in regards to capital ships, they were perhaps escorting the most valuable cargo of all. Not just more engineers but a massive amount of foodstuffs. For in taking the territory, the plan was to utilize the people of New Shiron for support. Encountering an abandoned country was shocking and, to be honest, a bit unnerving.

Still, he put his troops to work to gather whatever they could and to centralize whatever they could find. The New Shironese were an efficient people but some of the technology was too advanced. Hence, some experts had to be flown in to try and make some sense of it all. The arrival of the Var decreased his stress levels as well and, as far as he could tell, they didn’t seem to fret over the small contingent of Scandavians, Drakonians, and Glorious Humans scattered throughout the vast South Klatchian Ocean.

He smiled. The ships the 4th were escorting could be handed off to elements of the 2nd and then double back to Vrak proper. The 1st and 3rd Reinforcement fleets, which most were anchored and docked in the extensive New Shiron territory ports, were ready to go at a moments notice. Besides, mainland Vrak still had a formidable air force and, from the latest intelligence briefing, the North Germanians were awakening from their slumber. Poor poor Scandavian States, It would be most unfortunate if the North Germanians, nearly as militarized as Vrak, decided to send out their fleets.

He send out a message to the Vaadians, politely thanking them for the intelligence and promised to rely further information on the movements of the Scandavians. He also mentioned that it was gratifying to hear that the tensions in Dyelli Beybi were lessening and personally looked forward to more cooperative ventures with their navy.

He also, as if absently, sent a message to the attack subs closing in on the Drakonian/GH position to turn about. The long-range aircraft and satellites would keep track of them. He did not, however, rescind the order to turn back the boomers. Those would stay, as directed by the Vrak High Command itself. He did wonder about the game they were playing and personally questioned that particular strategy. But then again, he wouldn’t lose any sleep if Timaru and Moskau were turned into a sheet of glass. Nope. Not a wink.

====

The Vrakian convoy seemed conceived in bad luck and poor planning. Damned dirty orcs! Who would have thought?

They halted their position as the engineers came forward and began to analyze exactly how to bridge the river. The military did spend a lot on logistics and each tank battalion was more than suitably equipped to counter almost any obstacle. All it took was time.

Some of the men began to examine the dead bodies more closely and the weapons were confiscated. The RPGs looked extremely familiar and it would be only a matter of time before whomever supplied the orcs would be tracked down. Vrak was known to have some unscrupulous arms dealers and they would be the first to be…questioned.

====

The contingent of soldiers looked on as the Angstians stepped out of their craft. Not overly friendly, but their weapons were not raised.

The Vrakian colonel broke away from the group and bowed to the Angstians. He never met one before but, like all officers, were acutely aware of their bombing Dyelli Beybi long ago. If he personally was upset, he didn’t show it. He had his orders and they were to make his guests able to access whatever they needed to accomplish their mission. He also had a low opinion of mercenaries as well, but did raise an eyebrow at the sight of the drones as well as the appearance of Jack.

“Yes, we are expecting you. I am Colonel Ty Kirig. Welcome to Airbase #4 of the North East HORDE district. A bit cold, no? Come with me and we can discuss business over some drink.”

The Colonel, dressed in a warm looking overcoat beckoned the visitors to a nearby squat building. His men trudged behind keeping a wary eye on the visitors and especially the odd drones and Jack. Certainly some of them must be wondering who these folks were.

====

Rosaline Qiqrin merely shrugged at the antics of the drunken general and watched with amusement at the exchange with the Var. Quaaq, her muscle-bound Inuit bodyguard watched as well but more along the lines of what could happen and how quickly could a Var disembowel a human. In the interests of science, of course.

The Vrakian envoy noticed the bored Macisikan diplomats. She made a subtle gesture for them to join the rest of her group but knew that they may not be so inclined. After all, perception is everything and if deRenci was seen talking to the Klatchians, well, it could set the wrong tone for the conference. Whenever that would occur. She was keeping track of the time and wondered how many side deals Timaru and Moskau had been making. That is the only reason why there was a delay in her mind.

As deRenci drained his drink he caught the Vrakian's subtle signal, and his boredom abruptly flipped into impatience. Signalling to his attendants, he wandered over to the Vrakian. The drunk general was amusing, but it didn't distract from the fact that the Moskauans had dropped the lot of them in the bar and left them there.
Flanked by the lawyer and the priest, the Baron halted a few feet from his Vrakian counterpart, where he inclined his head, one equal to another.
"My lady, I do not believe we have had the pleasure. I am Baron Tierce deRenci, of the UIK."

Perception was indeed everything; deRenci was astute enough to realise the likely reasons for the delay, and while that was all very good, there came a point where it was rude to keep one's guests waiting. For deRenci, that point had come and gone; and he was getting annoyed.

In their corner the press was getting restless; they weren't accustomed to being kept waiting this long.

The Moskauans certainly had an interesting way of doing things. With the Drakonians finally arriving from their side talk with the KGB, they decided to send someone into the bar to make an announcement, "The Conference is now begining, can all members please begin filing through to the conference room. Ushers will show you to your places. Press to the gallery please. Thank you."

The conference room was out the back down a short coridoor. It was in effect a large room with a huge polished wooden circular ring like table in the middle. Their were place markings. The Drakonians were seated on the right of the Moskauans, the Klatchians had been put on their left although they had been labelled 'The Federal Klatchian Coast' as opposed to Federated. It could have been carelessness on the part of the locals, but it was just as likely to be a contrived insult. There was enough room between the delegations that people whispering in one group would not be overheard by the next. Everyone else seemed to be spaced randomly.

Each seat had a microphone, that could be switched on and off depending upon whether the speaker wanted the rest of the hall the hear them.

The gallery upstairs was behind a glass wall, and had speakers that would magnify what was being talked about downstairs, while also giving some privacy to the press officials. Unlike dowstairs it also had a lunch buffet at the back. A few locals were already there talking quietly among themselves.

While he hadn't arrived with the Drakonians, Dzerzhinsky was in the building, lurking around in the background. He had convinced Brezhnev to delay the conference for a little as he had been bugging the bar and had been most interested by the transcripts that had been coming through. The fact that the Klatchians hadn't guessed the place might be wired was an unexpected coup for the Director of the KGB in Moskau.

As the groups moved into the confrence room, Wittlebach tagged up to the side of the Vrakian Diplomat. "I think it is unwise of me to linger here after I give my speech. So I will be leaving, if you stay, please don't contradict me or start making threats. I would prefer the Federation speak very little on the matter any futher unless Moskau starts behaving."

Wittlebach did not take his seat, he continued to stand. Picking up the mislabled sign he smirked and handed it to his human aide. Who dropped it under the chair.

The Alconian nobleman waited quietly, watching the various delegates move to their seats. Just before the last one wandered to where they were to be seated, William began. He turned on the mike, but actually projected his voice, as he had been taught in debate, so the whole room could hear him without the need for the sound system.

"Fellow Diplomats of the World, the Federated Klatchian Coast would like to make our position perfectly clear. The Federation of the Klatch does not make moral judgements about any state government. We allow the people of those states to make their own judgement of how they wish to rule themselves. If the people of Timaru and Moskau desired to live under a dictatoriship, socialist utopia, or elect their leaders by lottery on ever third tuesday of the month, the Federal Government of the Klatch would not care.
It is the responsiblity of the Federation to allow each State Government to rule its people as they allow. It is not our responsiblity to govern the citizens of the Klatch directly, but to protect them from outsiders so they may live as they allow.
The people of Moskau and Timaru do not desire to be ruled by Cyro any longer. This is their desire, and they have stated it as such. Obviously the new government in Cyro disagrees with that statement. The Federated Klatchian Coast does not take any side in this matter at present. It will be presented to you that the Constitution allows any state to leave the Federation unmolested. Which is true. But what you will not be told is that the land of Timaru and Moskau sits upon was purchased from the Federal Government of the Klatch. As such, it has the restriction that it may not become seperated from the Klatch unless agreed to by Parliament and the President.
So the Federated Klatchian Coast sees that the only following options are open to the new government here in Moskau and Timaru..."

He held up his hand, "One...That Moskau and Timaru recognize that they are a territorial government of the Federated Klatchian Coast, and act accordingly. Two, that the people of Moskau and Timaru begin plans to migrate to non-klatchian territory immediatly. Three, that they become a squatter state, living on land that the Klatchian Federation owns without permission."

He dropped his hand and pushed forward, looking at those in a circle. "The Federation has not yet promlugated a policy towards a Squatter State. The new government of Moskau has timed this perfectly with the death of our beloved President, King Vrak. But we will assure you all of the following, The Klatchian Federation will not allow the future seizue of Klatchian Territories by a Squatter State or its allies to go unpunished. The Klatchian Federation will not prevent any enemy of Moskau from seeking retribution against it, either Klatchian, or alien." He slightly indicated the Vaadian General with one hand.
"If Moskau and Timeru take the path of a Squatter State, they shall face the consequences of that action with only their allies. And remember that these same souls have so horribly mistreated their allies, that they are now eneimes. For I leave you with one more point, Moskau is Cyro. The same puppet master who's government fustrated you in the past now pulls the strings here. While his former poppets prop up a new Tzar, and his former ally hones his blade for retribution. Unless Moskau changes course, it will stand alone when Himmler arrives.
The Federation has only one more thing to say on the matter. The Territorial Government of Mosaku has declared its independence and meet with a government at war with the Klatchian Federation. As such all Klatchian airspace will close to non-Klatchian aircraft leaving the Moskau Federation's territory within six hours unless granted by Territorial Air Command. Klatchian waters are closed off north of Pious Point except to Alconian and Enclave vessels.
"I have no need to go through another Nekoa Bay for the benifit of Baron Dzerzhinsky or his puppets. I wish you all Good Day."

The Mackistani had also not been the only ones offended. The Landgrave had realized what was going on, backroom deals with other confrence members. So be it, but the Federation wasn't about to deal with a rigged game at such a high level. Which explained why the Klatchian Foreign Minister, and his Var aide turned and walked back out the door. They were not going to stay for the confrence.

****
The Saab 200
The two crew members began to make last minute preperations to their smaller vehicle in the aft cargo section. If the Moskauvites decided to be impolite about letting the the Foreign Minister leave, well LOW had provided alternative transportation.

One of the smaller drones - A missile, really, perhaps a centimetre long and a tenth of that in diameter, vaguely cone-shaped, but lacking a warhead (It had been replaced with a small sensor suite) - flew closer to the colonel, eventually resting on his shoulder, kind of like a tired kolibri, desiring to sleep while simultaneously recording the colonel's body temperature, profiles in assorted EM spectra, and other such details.

Akito chuckled. "It likes you, Colonel Kirig. And no - Not too cold. Perhaps a little chilly... But a drink is a good idea."

As they walked towards the building the colonel was leading them to, Jack couldn't help but to cackle a little - He liked the effect he seemed to have on this people, and eventually started to wink at them, wave at them (With the ordinance he carried), and even called them - Pointlessly, as he didn't have anything specific in mind. He liked it anyway, though.

Akito stayed closer to the colonel, asking assorted questions. "So... With regards to our targets - Anything specific? How high is the chance that we'll get into close contact? Or are we just supposed to defend and possibly interfere with transmissions? Oh, and we've a small list of assorted materials we'd consider useful - Mostly electronics, a bit of ordinance, a few vehicles. It'd also be useful to know how far we can go... Traps tend to require sacrifices."

And while they went, the drones spread out, now covering an area about a hundred metre in radius, around their two owners - Just to move closer again, as they came closer to the building.

Ambassador Aisha Seius, Praetorian Guard Captain Marcus Livius, and the other aides and members of the Drakonian Mission, minus the delayed Leo Flavius, including a number of reporters filed into Conference Room and took their places. Only Aisha took a seat, Marcus standing stiffly behind her shoulder, served as an honor guard, while a vacant seat was left for Leo next to her. Her staffers and aide, kept back, one conspicuously holding a briefcase.

The Drakonians listened as Alconan gave his address. The Drakonian and Emirate press stirring as they scrambled to record the address. Aisha was much more respectful, only signal an aide to come to after the address was over. She coffered quietly with the man for a moment, before he retreat away from the conference table. A moment later he was typing furiously on a laptop he had acquired from another of the Drakonians.

Aisha tried not to dwell on the still empty seat, and instead turned her attention to the man heading this conference. Yet, her mind could not help but wonder what the implication of this Federation policy might have on the future. And what did Himmler have to do with anything. Drakonian Intelligence had lost track of him after he lost control of his Dyelli Beybian Democracy.

And then there was the comment about the Nekoa Bay Negotiations. If the Klatch really felt that way, that any negotiations with Drakonian involved would end that way, then there was no way for peace between the two nations. That one speech held some heavy words and deep meanings. She wondered how the other delegates would react. She knew what her government would do, but what about the others?

OOC: And where is this Pious Point? Anyway, this is just a quick post I'll post Leo's reply to Chlarissa when I have more time.

There was a buzz in the Ministry of Defence, and it had nothing to do with Vaadians or Cardinals or Timaru and Moskau. It had a lot to do with three brief cases.

There was a timid knock on Commisaar Quentin's door. It was the middle of the night and most people weren't too bold when it came to waking up Senior members of the Cheka. As it so happened Quentin was already awake, "What is it?" he snapped at the soldier at his front step as he yanked the door open.

"MOD wants you in Sir." the Soldier replied quickly and professionally.

"Right." Quentin was dressed in a singlet and boxer shorts, "I'll need to get dressed. Before I do though you can tell me what it's about."

"Confidential Sir." the Soldier replied.

"Bollocks." Quentin grabbed the front of the man's jacket and pulled it forward.

The move was so unexpected that the soldier just about fell through the door that was slammed after him, "I know the MOD as well as you do Soldato." Quentin continued as it was closed, "Confidential is a fancy way of saying the place is in a dead panic and by now everyone from the caterers up already knows what's going on. If it was actually a big secret they would have sent a private car."

"Missing brief cases Sir. Three of them." the soldier replied, deciding it probably wouldn't be too bad if he broke confidentiality since he wasn't supposed to know in the first place and as such hadn't actually been told not to say anything...

"Desription?"

"Ah... a lot like your one under the table Sir." the soldier nodded towards an unremarkable black briefcase under a side table in the hallway.

"What's in them?" Quentin persisted.

"Tactical nuclear weapons."

Quentin nodded, "And they're gone? Do we have any idea who took them."

"KGB." the soldier pronounced the word with more than a hint of fear, "Probably Spetsnaz involved, two guards dead at the facility."

"Guess I'd better come in then." Quentin replied, "Once I'm dressed, you going to drive me in?"

"Ah no Sir, I'm on a mission to visit everyone who hasn't been picking up their phones and get them in, you'll have to find your own way in Sir."

"Good thing I have a car." Quentin replied, opening the door for the Soldier.

After the man had left, Quentin walked over to the briefcase under his table. He lifted it, placing it on the table and clicking it open. Inside was a mass of wires, with a small metal jar in the centre. Blinking lights indicated how much battery life was left, several weeks. Long enough to move it to a safe location along with it's two sisters. The Soldier had been partly right. It was a bomb. It wasn't, however, nuclear. It was something much worse, anti-matter. The KGB had it now, what they would do with it depended a lot upon how negotiations went in Moskau.

Brezhnev was centre of the delegation Timaru and Moskau had put forward. He watched everything like a poker player, his face devoid of emotion. After the Klatchians had spoken, he switched on his own microphone. Unlike the Klatchians he made no effort whatsoever to use any talent he might have for voice projection to sound around the room, instead relying on the expensive sound system his Government had installed, "What the Klatchians have pointed out in their own unique way is that we are ethnically Dyellian and that we have some members of the former Cyro Government in positions of authority within the State. If they think that we are Dyelli Beybi though, they are sadly mistaken."

A very slight glance at the press gallery indicated this was as much for their benefit as that of the delegates, "Klatch can bluster about squatters all it wishes, but that does not change the fact that this is our homeland. My people lived on these lands before the state was purchased by Dyelli Beybi, and indeed before there was a Federation of Klatch to talk about. This is our land and we will not be shifted off it."

"The Klatchians want us to join the Federated Klatchian Coast." he had the name right, "What benefit is there for us? We will become the slaves of the Alconians, Vrakians and Var, much as the people in Cyro are. The FKC Parliament had the opportunity to prevent further war in Dyelli Beybi, but they did not. They allowed the Vaadians and the Scandavians to enter the country. It is pure fluke that we do not have a blood war in that State at this very moment."

"The Federated Klatchian Coast has promised that if we join with them they will protect us from invaders, but they invited them in in Dyelli Beybi. The FKC is as trustworthy as an adder, we will not be getting into bed with them."

"Furthermore, we find that the policy they hold towards the Orc population which makes up around 10 percent of this state to be highly offensive. Twice Moskauans have been put forward for positions of authority in the Klatchian Government. Both have been turned down, one we presume on the grounds that he was related to the then head of the Cheka in Cyro, and the other on the grounds that they were an Orc. This speciesism is completely at odds with the ideals of equality that this state stands for."

"We will not allow our people to fall into the nochnoi that is Klatch. In good faith we invited you to this table, yet you march your armies against us in the North even when you come talking of peace. How inconvenient it must be to find that the locals have aquired weapons and are not friendly towards Klatch." Brezhnev smiled coldly. The Moskauans were very friendly with the Orcs, odds were at least some of their weapons had been aquired from the new fledgling state.

"We are not Cyro." he was begining to raise his voice, the volume increasing as Brezhnev built towards the climax of his speech, "We are Timaru and Moskau, a union of settlers and locals. We will not be moved from our land no matter what case you may have against us in Klatchian law. We will not be bullied by Klatch. We will remain here with our allies, and if need be we will fight. If Klatch wants this land back they will have to pay for it in blood."

The senior human aide pushed himself forward and hit the button. "Actually the Vaadian Foreign Guard was in Dyelli Beybi because they had a treaty with the socialist republic. And Soult's government demanded protection from the Vaadians via the Imperials. If you don't want outsiders interfering in your civil war, then don't give them the authority to ask for it."

He looked at the Scandinavian Delegation as he continued, "Obviously it was a group of Monarchies that controled the Socialist Republic into doing things we did not want it to do. Like allowing their river fleet to commit acts of piracy, like the testing of weapons of mass destruction on Klatchian Territory without permission, undermining the occupational forces of Neo Tyr, nuclear attacks upon third party nations. Yes we had such control over Cyro it was unbelievable. The people who ruled Dyelli Beybi were the Checka."

[Vrak, I know you control the FKC-Haven territory. As of now, it's 7 days dead, which is the point at which I normally remove a territory from the map, but since such an action could have a bearing on this RP (mine and the FKC's) I want to know what you want to do with it.]

Sadira's smile was pure sacarin, "Controlled? An interesting word that leads to interesting places. I can't speak for any other nation in any of the other situations, but the Imperium has never been more than absolutely forthright with Emperor Soult. The deal was simple; we'd help them for the simple pleasure of having a crack at the Vaadians. Nothing more, nothing less. Personally, I am of the opinion that you can't very well being upset at such geopolitical dealings, not when it's the modus operendi of every nation in the Klatch. Funny in a way; Vrak or Alcona stabs the Klatch in the back and it's business as usual, but if a nation trying to exercise its right to self-determination while wanting nothing more than to be left alone and its very nearly an act of war.

"Which brings me to my next point. Why is there no similar condemnation of Ilek-Vaad? After all, they have renounced the Klatchian government as well and are currently committing an act of war against a Federation member. Mr. Brezhnev brings forth a good point, the Federation does nothing for one of its members while it is under siege by a non-member. You rant and rail about 'squatters' and the consequences of their actions, but I ask you this: what is the cost of treason? So far, the ony answer I've seen demonstrated is: 'nothing'. This doesn't surprise me, really, because in the end nations and groups of nations will do what they think is in their own interests. The Imperium can't decry that when we're doing it as well, but we only ask that the Federation be somewhat honest about it.

"However, I thank the Federation government for quickly and fairly reviewing the request by Emperor Soult for Imperial assistence. It has smoothed things along tremendously. Which reminds me, the task force formed for rendering aid should be arriving in Klatchian waters within 24 hours. While I'm not allowed to discuss specific timing or routing, the Imperial Navy will respect the territorial waters of all nations within the Klatch.

"As for you, Mr. Brezhnev, I must object most strenuously at your characterization of the Imperium. We are not invaders. There isn't a single marine or sailor within the task force that isn't assigned to permanent shipboard assignments. If there is to be any fighting, it'll be at sea."

The part about marines in the task force not being prepared for amphibious assault wasn't strictly true, but only those most intimately aware of the Imperial Navy's capabilities would realize where this was so would be able to call Sadira on it. Unlikely, in this crowd of mostly-diplomats.

deRenci sat stoically behind at his place. To his left, the clergyman was taking notes, to his right, the lawyer was busily typing into a laptop. None of the three reacted during the speeches, or to the Landgrave's dramatic exit. The lawyer was receiving a feed from Arn-Maciska, where Julia Perez was setting UIK policy towards the whole affair; in fact, she'd even managed to relay him instructions via her press release, instructions that were well received.

When the Scandinavian stopped speaking deRenci leaned back. He was not impressed by any of the arguments, and hadn't been given a single reason to ask Julia to change the UIK's position; he didn't need the lawyer whispering in his ear to tell him that. And he was letting it show.

When the Alconian walked out there was a stir in the Press Gallery, the Macisikani craning their heads to watch, but they soon settled down; they were waiting for something their circulation would actually care about.

Brezhnev nodded in acknowledgement to the Scandavian delegation, "My apologies, the attack was more intended for the Vaadians who are invaders."

"This brings me to an interesting point." he paused, eyeballing the Federation diplomats aggresively, "While we could hardly be called friends of Cyro, the hypocrisy evident in these so called 'legal grounds' to allow Vaadian invasion is blatantly obvious. You say that a now defunct regime has 'given permission' for the Vaadians to invade and only they can withdraw such permission. Does this mean that should someone claiming to be Tzar give permission for someone else to invade Dyelli Beybi, that their claim would also be valid?"

"I find it amazing that Klatch would insult our ears with such arguments... but the fate of Cyro is irrelevant to this discussion. We have stated our feelings on the matter of Union with Klatch."

"So are you legally agreeing to the claims of Soult as the new Emperor of Greater Dyelli Beybi? No you are not, there are members of the Socialist Republican Government alive. We would obviously prefer to hear their views on the Vaadian matter rather than just the Vaadians."

He paused, "It is also hard to call forces already in place before the civil war an invasion. Futhermore the Federation is monitoring the situation and will respond to changes in both Vaadian and Imperial presences. However, I am not here to re-iterate Klatchian policy. We have stated our position and allow the citizens of this area to make their own decisions. They must live with the consequences. I am mearly here to explain the Klatchian postion and allow there to be some fact checking against the retoric.
As for instance the claim that Vrak stabbed the Klatch in the back. I wonder if you would please enlighten us on that subject with when and how."

Davies squinted at the image. She leaned over the table, her eyebrows creasing as she frowned at it. For a while it looked like she was going to stand back and announce, 'I'm lost'. But she didn't. She kept on staring and eventually seemed to spot something she recognised, tracing the pen along the line of a dirt road, tracing along another, running North and East from Cyro, about 30 kilometres where things were starting to get sandy. What she circled was an odd looking facility. It looked like an abandoned bus depot. A big shed and huge carpark.

The screen changed suddenly, the buildings went from being two dimensional images to being three dimensional blocks hanging in space, rotating slowly. "What else can you tell us...it appears you've been there before Commisar"

No one answered Davies question on shoes, of course everyone else was wearing boots at the moment.

----------

The white egg unit sat quiet for a moment, "Have you ever participated in activities which may be considered piracy by some nations?"

----------

Mr. Teddy gave Collins a look, "Really, trying to hide the truth does you no good. As for a future position, the various Houses have to consider things. Until then you will be a guest at a small country house one of our trading concerns built to entertain Alconian buisnessmen. Of course you will have to be measured, after all it is in the mountains."

*****
The Var raised his glass, "May all the terrans of the Klatch be free from their own stupidity..." He drank half and poured the rest on the floor. Which was not a good sign.

"It's a fairly typical Dyellian bunker system. Three concrete shafts dropped into the earth. Two parallel shafts drop 400 metres into the installation. One runs a lift the other shaft is a stairwell and maintenance for the lift. There is another hidden emergency exit shaft somewhere in the desert. I don't know where it is."

Davies paused in her description of the facility, "Once you're inside there is an a long hallway with guard rooms on either side and a fire door. Further down the coridoor branches to the left where the living quarters are. If you carry straight ahead the gate is there. You come out on the second storey. There is a lift on your left that goes down to the gate itself and the control centre on the right if you follow the catwalk around. If you follow the catwalk right around to the far end there is a generator room."

She paused her brow creased in concentration, "That's about all I've seen of it. They had a project where they were trying to colonise another planet some time ago."

It was left unsaid that this colonisation plan had been carried out without informing the rest of Klatch in true Dyellian style, "The settlers were mostly refugees from Jiddady."

----------

"Yes." Palmer replied simply, having decided to tell the truth.

----------

Collins raised an eyebrow, "I'm not trying to hide the truth." she replied with a very slight narrowing of the eyes, "I am merely stating a fact. I have never been found guilty of piracy. Legally speaking I am as innocent as a newborn lamb."

A very slight smirk communicated the fact that she was well aware that everybody knew differently, "But let us not talk about this. Whatever may have happened in my sordid past, happened then. I am a widow and an expecting mother, I am not about to do anything that will endanger the future of the child." the last was spoken with deep conviction.

"The legality of Pierre Soult's claim is irrelevant." Brezhnev dismissed the 'Emperor' with a wave of his hand, "He holds power. We can acknowledge other Governments all we like but they will be nothing more than lame ducks."

"I am also fully aware there are members of the former Government alive, but they are here in rebellion against Cyro and as such can hardly speak on behalf of the State they are rebelling against. The suggestion is ludicrous in the extreme."

"I do not recall claiming Vrak stabbed Klatch in the back." he continued, "As such I will ignore any demands to qualify the statement."

Command General Lucane listened intently and undisturbed by the comments on both sides, and finally decided that he had a point to make. He stood, preferring that his own booming voice, honed on the parade grounds and in battle, project itself rather than through a microphone, he could make himself heard over artillery fire and would have no problem filling this room with or without the microphone.

"The status of the Foreign Guard in Dyelli Beybi is irrelevant to this situation since Mr. Brezhnev is claiming not be tied with Cyro anyway. Who is invading whom is an entirely pointless debate at this point, as the Foreign Guard are withdrawing after finding that the Dyellian state and it's people are far too savage, undisciplined and civilized to deserve the help of The Free Republic. The Republican Council views the fate of Dyelli Beybi and it's territories as a matter of supreme indifference.

Having said that, I merely want to point out to Mr. Brezhnev and Mr. Dzerzhinsky, I know he's listening, what happens to states so close to the Free Republic that mass hostile forces. Mr. Brezhnev may want to ask Field Marshal Grune of Karmanyaka what happened when he massed forces on our border and seized our Ambassador." He pauses a second and smiles.

"Wait, you can't ask him, he and his generals are quite dead. IF Mr. Brezhnev wants an independant state for his people, that is fine with us. IF this independant state includes garrisons of soldiers from nations that are enemies of the Republic, then this state shall suffer the same fate as Grune's Karmanyaka. It would be in Mr. Brezhnev and his peoples best interest to come to terms with the Federation instead of foreign forces.

We in the Free Republic have no qualms about eliminating threats so close to our border. Choosing to side with the Imperium " he pauses " either one of them, over the Federation will advance the debate of who is invading whom to the answer , WE are invading YOU."

At the end he is staring directly at Brezhnev "Your status as a free and independant state is welcome by the Free Republic, but if you choose to use your freedom and independance to threaten the security of the Free Republic, we will not look upon it too kindly. We have already seen that your brothers in Cyro are duplicitous liars and savages, why don't you show us that you are better and come to a lawful agreement with the Federation."

He then steps away from his chair and table "That is all I have to say." He then turns and leaves, with a few quick strides he is gone before Brezhnev can muster a response.

The aide hid a grin, Nothing like Vaadian saber rattling to make Moskau realize its between a rock and a hardplace. With 20 inch hail coming in from above...

The aide stood up and wispered to his Vrakian counterparts "I need to hit the head, be back in a second." He stood up and walked around behind the Moskau delegation and then the Drakonians. He paused for a second and bent down for a moment. He stood back up holding a peice of paper up to the less engaged aide.

"I think you dropped this sir" It was a folded yellow peice of note paper. The aide placed on the table next to his couterpart and continued to the bathroom. On the inside was a note. Bar, five minutes...

**********
The Bar

Landgrave Wittlebach was waiting, apparently for a vehicle. He noticed the appearence of the General and waved to him. "General, one last drink before we hit the road? It appears the locals are being somewhat tardy in taking me back to my plane?"

The Bar

Landgrave Wittlebach was waiting, apparently for a vehicle. He noticed the appearence of the General and waved to him. "General, one last drink before we hit the road? It appears the locals are being somewhat tardy in taking me back to my plane?"

Command General Lucane turned to the Landgrave and nodded without any apparent change in expression, he paused and beeped his pilot and told him to have the plane ready ASAP. He then joined the Landgrave.

"I'll have a soda, with a twist of lime. No alcohol while I'm on duty." He turned to the Landgrave and deadpanned " I may be required to shoot my way out of the current situation. Cheers."

The Landgrave nodded, he was sipping at a whiskey neat. "I am worried too about possible Moskauvite activities, unfortunatly I've been out of the service for a number of years. So my aim isn't quite what it once was."

William waited until the bartender was down the bar slightly before writting a note on a bar napkin. He continued to talk, "Obviously your here on the invite of the Vrakians. But as a member of the Federation Cabinet, let us say that I am glad that in some matters we can coexist without stepping on each other's toes."

He stopped when the bartender returned with the drink and folded the napkin into a triangle.

"After all the Federation feels no ill will to the Vaadians or their Republic. We just seem to be a quagmire of varying intrests and rules to most outsiders. So if you have any problems leaving and need assitance, don't hesitate to call me on my private sat number."

He wrote a number down on the triangle and handed it to the Vaadian. The 'inside' note read.

Gonad, location xx-xx-xx, date yy-yy-yy,
not an orbital impact event
Moskau likely procured before Soult Coup
Bar likely bugged

The Vrakian envoy looked about the room.

"Let us keep this so-called conference confined to one matter, that of the 'independence' of Timaru and Moskau. I don't think much more needs to be said or elaborated on which the Landgrave hasn't already stated. Clearly, Timaru and Moskau wish to provoke the FKC by calling upon nations that are hostile to the Klatch. And the nations of Scandavian States and the Drakonian Imperium have proven themselves in the past to be just that. As well, the fact that Scandavian States needs to deploy twelve cruisers just to apprehend one pirate speaks either of their incompetence or that they have other designs upon Timaru and Moskau. I doubt that the Scandavians claim to respect FKC territorial waters will hold true since the FKC does have colonies in Haven as well. Would Scandavian States use this opportunity to seize these lands? Most likely and certainly a move made those colonies will reveal them to be the hypocrites they are. Also, how many ships are you sending to "take a crack" at the Vaadians? This statement only proves that you are a nation of warmongers. As well, they make unsubstantiated claims that Vrak has stabbed the FKC in the back. Clearly, the tenous grasp on reality that Scandavian States has is slipping. Vrak has always been a staunch supporter of the FKC."

Does Timaru and Moskau really believe that by bringing in nations that are hostile to the Klatch that the Klatch will merely let them? Do the outsider nations here really believe that they would be silent if one of their territories or provinces suddenly claim independence and then invite Vrak and allies to set up shop? What you should have done..."

And here, Rosaline wags a finger at Brezhnev.

"...is to contact the FKC first. We are, contrary to public opinion, not unreasonable. If you want this situation diffused, then you should dismiss these outsiders first, break whatever agreements you have most likely already struck, and negotiate with the FKC directly. But, you chose a most unwise path and now, the terms have been laid down by the Landgrave. We suggest that you use what little brains you have left and choose wisely. And I'm certain that my words will no doubt cause you to become angry, but if you look past the words and see their meaning, you will realize that I am correct and that the future of your 'nation' depends on what you do today. Choose wisely. Don't let history remember you as a fool."

The Landgrave nodded, he was sipping at a whiskey neat. "I am worried too about possible Moskauvite activities, unfortunatly I've been out of the service for a number of years. So my aim isn't quite what it once was."

William waited until the bartender was down the bar slightly before writting a note on a bar napkin. He continued to talk, "Obviously your here on the invite of the Vrakians. But as a member of the Federation Cabinet, let us say that I am glad that in some matters we can coexist without stepping on each other's toes."

He stopped when the bartender returned with the drink and folded the napkin into a triangle.

"After all the Federation feels no ill will to the Vaadians or their Republic. We just seem to be a quagmire of varying intrests and rules to most outsiders. So if you have any problems leaving and need assitance, don't hesitate to call me on my private sat number."

He wrote a number down on the triangle and handed it to the Vaadian. The 'inside' note read.

Gonad, location xx-xx-xx, date yy-yy-yy,
not an orbital impact event
Moskau likely procured before Soult Coup
Bar likely bugged


Lucane simply nodded as he looked at the note discreetly and slipped it into his breast pocket, giving a clear view of his heavy ballistic armour and two .50 handguns he was equipped with, before closing his coat again, hopefully the bartender caught a glance.

"I don't anticipate any problems with leaving, other than the weather. Most nations prefer to have a Red Jaguar Command General leave as quickly as possible. If you are substantially delayed I could easily accomodate you.

I cannot speak as to the Free Republic's disposition towards the Federation, I can only say that the Retaliatory Guard could do without the Federations incessant threats against our soldiers in the field doing their duty. We would like to see the JDF modernized and capable of taking action, so that we would not be forced to do so. It would help the Federation's standing with the Republican Council if the Federation contacted Supreme Republican Commander Ring to smooth out any operational difficulties we have suffered in the past."

The Landgrave nodded, "I think the most recent inaction has more to do with the JDF lacking the equivilant of of a Mandate...I think is what the Vaadians call it?" He raised an eyebrow.
"Obviously the JDF can not act, as the Retalitory Guard cannot, without the legal authority to do so.
As for our threats, well you violated Klatchian soverignty illegally unfortunatly. The reason it was illegal was due to Lord Tengil's government in Karmanyanka. They dropped the ball not you, but unfotunatly your duty and Klatchian law split due to that mistake."

"I might invite your Supreme Republican Commander to a unoffical visit, so we can discuss our varying view points on past matters. I tend to like low key meetings with little political downside before high level, offical meetings occur. It allows egos from having to be under the political spotlight. Your Supreme Commander does take vacations does he not?"

Lucane nods "Yes, the Retaliatory Guard requires a Military Mandate to act in most situations, or at the vey least at the request of the First Republican. Klatchian sovreignty is only a secondary concern when safe-guarding the Republic, the Constitution clearly states that once a Mandate is given that the Retaliatory Guard must always choose to safeguard the Republic over the concerns of allies, neighbors or enemies. It is the sacrifice of the Retaliatory Guard that insures the persistance of the Republic."

Lucane pauses and sips his soda before he falls any further into Retaliatory Guard indoctrination, he knows how unpopular it is with foreigners.

"Commander Ring is a Purifier, I am certain that he takes vacations, though I doubt he leaves the country for them, due to security concerns. Many of the Republic's enemies would happily capture or kill a Supreme Republican Commander if they had the chance. As he is a Purifier you can be certain that his ego remains checked, they believe in honor and duty more than anything else."

The Landgrave sipped at his wiskey, "Obviously the Retalitory Guard must put the Republic first. I think we both understand that the Joint Defense Force's primary mission is to protect the soveriginty of the Federation. As for ego, I make no comment on any given individual General, it is more a general policy in these matters. However, I am sure that if the Supreme Republican Commander desires a discussion, we feel it should be on informal terms, so a reciprical invitation to Ilek-Vaad for my relative Miss Smith might be a benificial idea."

William paused again, "I do not wish to overly delay you, but where might one find more out about these Purifiers? I'm working with rather a new staff at the moment and that isn't in our portfolio for Ilek-Vaad yet."

Sadira chuckled mentally at the Vrakian paranoia, "I find it odd how you can claim that Timaru and Moskau was seeking to provoke the FKC when you never expressed any true desire to see the Federation's freedom. And why should they come to you when you were nothing but a threat to them from day one and continue to be to threat? Indeed, I think the only reason you're here right now, other than the obvious, is because the Dyelli mainland has also declared independance from the Klatch and nothing is stopping you from publically undermining Soult's government. Must be a change, not having to scatter like cockroaches when the light comes on, although I can't speak as to how pleasant that is from your end.

"As for your territory in Haven, I'm sure you're aware by now that for the most part it's desert and highlands; we have no material use for the Klatchian territory there when we have our own in South Haven. In case you aren't aware, the Imperium is the gatekeeper for Haven. Always have been, but unlike in the past there is no longer an informal committee that requires a vote to decide on actions. Consider that bit of information and use your imagination; the Imperium doesn't have to really do anything, must less even look your way.

"And finally, we come to our oh so dear Vaadian friends. Hmm, that General of there's isn't here anymore, too bad. Anyway, I degress. What the Imperium does with or to its mortal enemies is none of your concern, unless you make it one. As it is, I don't know why you're complaining, not when they pulled their 'No fair! You didn't kiss my posterier and now you don't exist!' stunt on you. For all your cries of loyalty to the Klatch, you certainly don't have a problem when they not only pulled out of the Klatchian Federation and then made your JDF look like a bunch of impotents when they did nothing to break the Vaadian blockade, thus causing Soult to all but follow Timaru and Moskau's path.

"Oh, that reminds me. The reason we sent an entire squadron of cruisers is two fold. One, it occured to the Joint Strategic Command that any force might have to split up to generate a good intercept vector; two, we promised to attempt to bring the stolen ship back in repairable condition, not possible if we'd only sent a division of cruisers and they had to resort to missiles."

The screen next to deRenci flickered; in Arn-Maciska, Julia was issuing another directive.
"Stage two," he murmured.

"If I may," he began, standing. deRenci had participated in several conferences in the past, some in places without electricity, let alone sound systems, and he had learned to hone his voice so that it would carry to all corners of the room. "While we are clear on where the Klatchians stand, and where the others stand, allow me to clarify my government's position," he announced in accented English* "We maintain that this affair is, legally, an internal matter of the Federated Klatchian Coast. Despite the dangers of escalation that we foresee in this situation, His Imperial Majesty's Government shall act in a strictly observatory capacity unless our involvement is requested by the government in Port Olympus, which I advise you, we continue to recognise as the legitimate authority over Deylli Beybi, and your own nation.
"Mr. Brezhnev, I have yet to hear any compelling arguments as to why we should alter our stance, or for that matter, why any members of the international community without a prior interest in Klatch should follow suit."
He paused and cast his eyes over towards the Scandinavians.
"While what you have said is all very interesting, perhaps we should actually follow the advice of the Vrakian delegate in her first statement; dealing first with the status of the Federation," he turned to the Moskauans "And I ask this now of Mr. Brezhnev; why should His Imperial Majesty's Government recognise the sovereignty of your nation?"


OOC: *I assume that's what they're all speaking. The Macisikani accent is most similar to an Israeli accent.

====================

Press Conference Transcript

Arn-Maciska Times: "Ms. Perez, will the government involve itself in the Klatchian situation?"
Julia Perez: "Given that this is, legally, still an internal matter of the Klatch, the United Imperial Kingdoms should continue to act in a strictly observatory capacity."
AMT: "A follow up; Ms. Perez, is escalation likely? And if so, will we involve ourselves?"
JP: "Mark, analysis indicates that the involvement of any more non-Klatchian states will only aggravate a situation already in steep decline. We have no desire to cause any further deterioration."

Sadira chuckled mentally at the Vrakian paranoia, "I find it odd how you can claim that Timaru and Moskau was seeking to provoke the FKC when you never expressed any true desire to see the Federation's freedom. And why should they come to you when you were nothing but a threat to them from day one and continue to be to threat? Indeed, I think the only reason you're here right now, other than the obvious, is because the Dyelli mainland has also declared independance from the Klatch and nothing is stopping you from publically undermining Soult's government. Must be a change, not having to scatter like cockroaches when the light comes on, although I can't speak as to how pleasant that is from your end.

"As for your territory in Haven, I'm sure you're aware by now that for the most part it's desert and highlands; we have no material use for the Klatchian territory there when we have our own in South Haven. In case you aren't aware, the Imperium is the gatekeeper for Haven. Always have been, but unlike in the past there is no longer an informal committee that requires a vote to decide on actions. Consider that bit of information and use your imagination; the Imperium doesn't have to really do anything, must less even look your way.

"And finally, we come to our oh so dear Vaadian friends. Hmm, that General of there's isn't here anymore, too bad. Anyway, I degress. What the Imperium does with or to its mortal enemies is none of your concern, unless you make it one. As it is, I don't know why you're complaining, not when they pulled their 'No fair! You didn't kiss my posterier and now you don't exist!' stunt on you. For all your cries of loyalty to the Klatch, you certainly don't have a problem when they not only pulled out of the Klatchian Federation and then made your JDF look like a bunch of impotents when they did nothing to break the Vaadian blockade, thus causing Soult to all but follow Timaru and Moskau's path.

"Oh, that reminds me. The reason we sent an entire squadron of cruisers is two fold. One, it occured to the Joint Strategic Command that any force might have to split up to generate a good intercept vector; two, we promised to attempt to bring the stolen ship back in repairable condition, not possible if we'd only sent a division of cruisers and they had to resort to missiles."


The Vrakian replied.

"The only reason why you and the other outsiders like you are here at this conference is to gain leverage against the Klatch through a fledging territory. Hiding under the guise of chasing after pirates is something only a child would buy. And you will forgive me if the Klatch does not have to answer to Scandaivian States on how it conducts its internal affairs nor do we have to spend time correcting you on your clearly misguided interpretation of events. You are a nation of warmongers and by sending a large force of ships...yes, we know of your movements, I suppose they are on a training exercise although you clearly said you would like to take a "crack" at the Vaadians...by way of the polar cap only proves it. I am tired of listening to your ridiculous veiled threats and chest thumping."

She then stood up.

"There is nothing more to be said. The terms have already been outlined. If you, Prime Minister Edmundovich Brezhnev, wish to align yourselves with these blokk pakrahs," waving to the outsider delegates except for Macisikan, "then so be it. That is a choice you seemed to have made before this farce of a conference even began. I bid you all good day."

With that, she turned and followed by her bodyguard met up with the Alconians and Vaadians outside. But she would not be inclined to talk for long.

====

The 4th fleet, having made sure that its transports are safely protected with the 2nd, began to wheel about and head back to Vrak. As well, the North West and North East HORDE groups increased their readiness status, and the regular patrols that were already on high alert for the King's funeral kept special tabs on the approaching Scandavian fleet. This information was also send via heavy encryption to JDF command and Ilek-Vaad. Needless to say, the entire torpedo net was turned up a notch.

The conference was not a complete failure. Some important information had been gleaned and would be shared with the Klatchians and Vaadians. The fact that Timaru and Moskau employed orcs in their armed forces were greeted with interest in the Vrakian High Command, for they had their own plans to do that. It is not that orcs were unfamiliar to the Vrakians, considering that the Far Northern Territories butressed up against the western corner of LOW and extended along the entire strip of the ice cap. It's just that they didn't think Timaru and Moskau had armed them with modern weaponry.

The convoy, nearing completion of the bridge kept a wary eye out for orcs. As well, a small aircraft carrier and its accompanying escorts that gave air protection to the transports moved in closer. Unless specifically ordered not to, the orcs will now feel Vrakian airpower.

Kirig shrugged as the drone alighted on his shoulder. He stifled an impulse to brush it away, not entirely convinced that it was benign despite Akito’s reassurances. The door to the squat building was opened by a junior officer as he, Jack, and Akito stepped in.

They passed through the entrance room. Two walls were adorned with coat and a heavy duty rack full of machine guns and other paraphernalia for the inclement weather. Rough hewn benches were below, and this is were the accompanying soldiers sat. A smartly dressed captain stood up from behind his desk and snapped a salute as the colonel entered. A brief exchange in Vrakian and then the captain opened the door to the conference room. The entire building had the odor of sweat and stale fish.

The conference room was unremarkable. A fairly large table had several maps spread out on it, indicating a map of the Klatch and the positions of the players involved. The territory of Timaru and Moskau was outlined in red. A red circle southeast of the Gonad had the letters “GH” on it.

“That is your target, gentlemen. And to be honest, we are not sure how close we can get you there. Also, we’ve only heard of unconfirmed reports of the abilities of the…pyskers…that Glorious Humanity possesses. We also cannot confirm as to whether they have established themselves in Timaru and Moskau or if they even infiltrated Dyelli Beybi proper. Needless to say, we are not too keen on them gaining a foothold within the Klatch.”

He placed his hands on the table and leaned slightly forward.

“So, do you have any ideas, short of blowing up their carrier group?”

The Landgrave sipped at his wiskey, "Obviously the Retalitory Guard must put the Republic first. I think we both understand that the Joint Defense Force's primary mission is to protect the soveriginty of the Federation. As for ego, I make no comment on any given individual General, it is more a general policy in these matters. However, I am sure that if the Supreme Republican Commander desires a discussion, we feel it should be on informal terms, so a reciprical invitation to Ilek-Vaad for my relative Miss Smith might be a benificial idea."

William paused again, "I do not wish to overly delay you, but where might one find more out about these Purifiers? I'm working with rather a new staff at the moment and that isn't in our portfolio for Ilek-Vaad yet."

"I cannot speak for what sort of contact the Supreme Republican Commander will want to have with you, or the Federation. I simply think it is important that you know that he has the ear of The Republican Council and he has yet to be disillusioned by Federation diplomats."

He finishes his soda "I will bring it up with him when I am required to give my briefing. The Retaliatory Guard has a website at retalitoryguard.iv , there is a complete listing of each army and their histories. The Purifiers were the first Retaliatory Guard army, formed when Commander Namroth Vedic reformed the Velite Guard in 1269AD. They were originally the crusader Knights Purifier founded in 1012AD by William 'The Pious' Issem. They are normally recruited exclusively from men of Coventry, and like most overtly religious men have a sense of 'Honor' and 'Duty' that defies logic and is idealized."

The Landgrave has learned , the hard way, that most Guardsmen like to extol the history of the Retaliatory Guard. He pauses as he orders another soda. "Honor, should not be a code of rules, honor should be taking right actions at all times."

The last bit was spoken like a true Lassean, arrogant and assuming that everyone 'knew' what was right and wrong, like they did.

The Landgrave smiled, "It would be intresting to see the similarties and diffrences in the rules we both use in our Codes of Honor General. I've been to enough of the world in a capacity of trying to make people realize that my intentions were good to know that many cultures have varying Codes of Honor, varying beleifs in what is right or wrong."

Alconians had a fairly deadly honor code compared to most of the world. You could still be cut down by someone in a duel of honor. Especially a peer, who was more at risk than a Freeman. And the Vaux were not expected to uphold their honor in battle. But they had also learned their honor code ended at their shores (and varied somewhat from Duchy to Duchy actually).

"But thank you for the breif snopsis General, I think the staff member who will inquire more into it will be quite enthralled with the subject."

T

The 4th fleet, having made sure that its transports are safely protected with the 2nd, began to wheel about and head back to Vrak. As well, the North West and North East HORDE groups increased their readiness status, and the regular patrols that were already on high alert for the King's funeral kept special tabs on the approaching Scandavian fleet. This information was also send via heavy encryption to JDF command and Ilek-Vaad. Needless to say, the entire torpedo net was turned up a notch. .

Defense Minister Ridgeway orders the New Shiron 4345th Communications brigade, with its elite cyberwarfare specialists, to prepare to initiate probes of Scandavian military computer networks, as well as their civilian networks, when the word is given. In addition, the 78th Fighter Wing, 1101st Orbital Fighter Wing and 701st Interface Wing are outfitted for electronic warfare and special EMP munitions are prepared for action.

This information is passed on to the Vrak

[Hey, what's the scale on the big regional map with all the blue? Oh, and where abouts on that map is New Shiron? I realize it's old, but it's the only reference I have for the fleet movement I want to do. Btw, Vrak, what page're the stats for your HORDE groups on?]


Sadira idly wondered why the Alconans and Vrakians were being so huffy. The Vrakians she could understand, they were always some form of belligerent, but the Alconans were typically more measured. The only logical reason for their leaving prematurely was because they had no intention to negotiate, which meant that they thought they were dealing their hand from a position of strength. She hoped they didn't seriously think they could take the Imperial Navy TF on their own, that would get very bloody very quickly. She took out her communications device and a couple commands later an audio recording of the meeting thus far was embedded in a heavily encrypted digital music file and sent it to the admiral; even if somebody unencrypted the files after they intercepted it, there would be no way to seperate the files. With another command, the file was on its way to the commander of the task force.


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


The reciept of the file had caused the Fleet Admiral in charge of the task force, Sir Li Yu, to take a look at his plot. He had never liked the thought of risking a transit through the Dark Sea Strait, but now he decided to throw it completely out the window. That, unfortunately, meant going the long way around and very potentially allowing a Vaadian escape. However, leaving aside the probability that the Vrakians would take any transit through the Dark Sea as a prelude to an attack, they Alconans occupied the strait as well and their surprising attitude during the conference made him uneasy. It wasn't that he was particularly scared of either nation singularly or together, but it would be all too easy to paint any move by his force as aggressive, which would present him with the problem of having to take on the entire Klatch as well as the JDF. He didn't like getting into fights he couldn't win.

"Comms, please signal the task force, 'Set course for North Sea route'," ordered the Admiral.

"All fleet commanders acknowledge, Admiral, " answered his FCO. "Sir, Fleet Admiral Saleh sends her compliments and wishes to speak to you."

"Very well, route it through my personal comms unit," replied Yu while he slipped the combination earbug/microphone. "So, Alaia, what do you want?"

A smirk made its way into her expression, "What's the matter, Admiral? My cousin the bearer of bad news? Or does the fact that you can't have me grate on your nerves still?"

"Want you? Child, if we weren't the same rank I'd have you brought up on charges of insubordination," Admiral Yu joked back. "As it happens, your cousin is the bearer of news. Whether it's good or bad I'm unsure as of yet. The Alconans are being unusually poor-tempered, so I decided it would be best if we didn't try the Dark Sea. I'm unhappy about giving the Vaadians a chance at escape, but I'd rather not lead this group into a situation where we could be jammed into a narrow strait. If the range is short enough, however, we should be able to launch airstrikes against the bastards; presuming, of course, that they don't close up shop and go home."

The smirk turned to a sour frown, "Personally speaking, I hope they don't. It'd be nice to break that little force like so much glass and then watch them build even more of those damned obsolescent ships. Can't say the same for the Vrak, they'd actually learn and find better ships to build. Their capships are pretty good, but I actually had to crack open a couple of really old reference books to find at what point in time those classes of ship originated from. I'll have to do a bit more digging to find out what the Alconans have, but their navy is probably in the same league. Actually, I'm more worried about the JDF getting involved, they'd outnumber us by a fair bit and if they caught us at the right time we would have to rely on our aircraft for most of the fighting."

"That would be... Unfortunate. However, I don't think that's likely without us really screwing up. We'll be avoiding the Dark Sea and swinging around the Logoth Marches in the North Sea, so that means the Alconans if anybody other than Ilek-Vaad. Anyway, I must tend to my flock. Yu, out." The only response from Admiral Saleh before the link cut out was a raised eyebrow.

ooc
New Shiron consists of a Australia sized continent roughly 1000 miles or more south of Dyelli Byebi and the Gonad Pennesula. However, the entire population left to colonize a cluster of star systems roughly 60 light years from Earth 20 subjective years ago (a few months ago objectively) for story reasons. New Shiron is future tech, but not outlandishly so. However, the New Shiron government retains a colony / enclave in the Gonad region, specifically at Gordon Bay (which I can't find the map for any longer either).

The Lords of War, Vrak and Alcona assisted New Shiron in fighting off an invasion by future tech armed forces a number of years ago and that is why it is in the FKC (that thread is so old as to have dropped off my ability to retrieve it for you to see).

Matthew Ridgeway is Defense Minister for the FKC government and is in command of the JDF administratively, and has some command powers for operational forces. New Shiron has an army sized force, a fleet (wet navy) size force and the equivilant of a Tactical Air Force in the Gonad area, plus a relatively small space fleet in the Earth system and the ability to bring in sizeable space forces and limited ground forces within a couple of weeks. The former Queen of New Shiron, Gabrielle O'Connor is married to the ruler of the Lords of War and related by marriage to the ruling house of Alcona and Hubris.

New Shiron is a modified constituional monarchy (think England 16th Century but with a formal constitution).

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=424788

The New Shiron defense forces pride themselves on unconventional approaches to military problems, and consider asymetrical warfare the epitome of the art of war.

incidently, as a player I also tend to use the country Galveston Bay a lot.

Can't say the same for the Vrak, they'd actually learn and find better ships to build. Their capships are pretty good, but I actually had to crack open a couple of really old reference books to find at what point in time those classes of ship originated from.

Ouch! That hurt. :)

More answers coming up.

[Hey, what's the scale on the big regional map with all the blue? Oh, and where abouts on that map is New Shiron? I realize it's old, but it's the only reference I have for the fleet movement I want to do. Btw, Vrak, what page're the stats for your HORDE groups on?]

Hard to tell exactly how big the Klatch is. Some say it's at least 2/3 the size of Africa, and that's the original landmass of the Klatch. Then when more people started joining Alcona made a brand new continent. Needless to say, many of those folks are now departed except for North Germania and Tanah Burung. As well, we still don't know were some members are and others don't have any earth holdings at all. As New Shiron stated, they still maintain an enclave within the Gonad.

Here are some map links that may be useful for you and others.

The FKC in all its glory (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/KingVrak/superklatchdeluxe4_20060220.jpg)

The yellow square is Port Olympus. I think I have it right.

Please note that this is mostly accurate except for how Karmanyaka looks. Consult the following for that (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/KingVrak/newkarma_20050808.jpg)

And finally, the Glorious Kingdom of Vrak (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/KingVrak/KLATCH_Vrak3a1_cities_terrain_0001.jpg)

HORDE groups are essentially military districts, commanding all levels of the Vrakian military. I haven't sat down and figured out exactly how many horde groups there are, but needless to say, each group is responsible for a vast amount of ships, artillery, tanks, airforce, special ops, anti-air, nukes, etc...

So...if you are not coming down the Artic Ocean and throught the Dukratian Straits (which is the shortcut) then you will be taking a much longer route, skirting around North Germania, down around the Lonto Marches and then around the Dark Sea. Notice the blip of land in grey in the Squall Straits? That never was really filled in, except for one time when the Klatch and another region attempted to make a "super" region here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/KingVrak/Copyofthenorthernseas.gif) . Basically, you can ignore all of it I think. I'm not sure of the status of that big unknown island near the Marx Sea. Still, there would be a reason why we call it the "straits" but I don't know how big of a landmass is sticking down. As well, the Squall platform is plunk in the middle of it and serves as huge refueling depot and goodness knows what else.

Again, the former New Shiron territory is in there but in relation to the map, I can't exactly tell. Probably, roughly, where it says "Southern Klatchian Sea". And don't be surprised if the words "ocean" and "sea" are used interchangeably. Most like the cartographers were drunk at the time.

Encrypted Message
TO: Federated Klatchian Coast Government
FROM: Office of the Prime Minister of Southeast Asia
SUBJECT: Chances of Diplomacy

Greetings Sir/Madam,

Yao Yang Nelson Neo, the Prime Minister of the United Sovereign Nations of Southeast Asia is out, and he is in one of the Sovereign Nations inspecting for environmental improvements. However, he knows of this situation, and wishes to enquire for the chances of peace. That is why he cannot write to you in person, but has had us, his aides of the cabinet, to communicate with you instead.

What are the chances of peace?

Respectfully,
Office of the Prime Minister of Southeast Asia

OOC: Not exactly my best work, but it will do...

[Sorry man, the temptation was too much. Thanks for all the info. I went through my NS folder on my C: drive and found deployment info for a couple of your fleets, but that was from when the cruiser squadron was nosing around in the South Sea. Btw, I assume you know how far along Jim is with your map, right? No infrastructure, but it looks like he's done all your terrain.

Btw, if you ever need help in figuring out your ORBAT, give me a ring. I'm pretty good with naval and land stuff, although Omz or CSJ would be better for anything to do with aircraft or air defense.]

OOC: Not a problem, SS. As well, be sure to take into account the forces that New Shiron has. Often forgotten the Shironese but very deadly...

IC:

The 4th fleet sighted the Squall Platform and began to reduce speed. Here, they would refuel and then proceed back to the mainland or perhaps augment JDF forces in the Dark Sea.

The platform itself was a massive structure, squatting in the middle of the straits like an ancient monolith. The Admiral couldn't remember who exactly constructed it but he was sure that the Dyellians and Benjians had a hand in it. It not only served as a refuelling depot but also as a long range missile platform against potential invaders and who knows what else. For all he knew, the twisted minds of some obscure R&D branch conducted experiments on sharks with lasers on their heads. Then again, since it was relatively stationary it also could be considered a big target.

Most of the drones had returned to their two owners, with perhaps two dozen of them staying outside, flying about, or simply resting on the roof of the building, which was the case with a butterfly-esque thing Akito had produced - It was utterly useless and without purpose, but it looked neat.

Inside the building, Akito and (To a lesser extend) Jack listened with what could be called 'Reasonable Attention', nodding every now and then (Though Jack had made a show of adoring the machine guns featuring so prominently inside the building - He was a lot into this kind of thing).

Akito also spent a little moment circling around the red circle indicating the GH fleet, her index finger tentatively touching the colour, seeming to draw closer to the center of the circle - For a moment, she didn't even seem to notice her surroundings, her eyes half closed and (If one looked close enough) glassy.

In pre-modern cultures, such would probably have looked as if she was a magician, or that she was having a revelation. In the modern world, she simply looked creepy and not quite sane, this latter impression being the correct one.

Of course, if the Vrakians were having second thoughts about their 'Business Deal', well, it was probably a little late for that.

"Oh, their abilities..." Akito's mind snapped back into reality, leaving the (Pleasant) illusion of bloodshed and vaguely violent sex, her expression being quite sad, for a moment - She tended to prefer the illusion over reality. "Vastly in excess of our own, from what we've gathered - It'd take a shipmind to compete with them when it comes to sheer power. Though of course, abilities vary - The behemoths might've stayed in GH.

"However, from the files I've had access to, their abilities are less refined - They are likely to crush me like a bug when it goes head-on, but our possibilities go more into details, are vastly more complex, requiring attention rather than brute force - So not all is lost." She smiled a little - She quite liked the idea of sch a 'tournament' with GH's psykers, and her excitement about the opportunity was growing. "Regardless of this, I suppose that your primary interest is in finding any kind of infiltration, and removing it - What they may have on board of the carriers is of secondary interest. Correct? In this case, it should be reasonably simple. They can be traced whenever they use their abilities, though it depends on how they're used to define the radius within which they can be traced, so all we'd have to do is to look out for them. Well, me and Jack.

"There are additional means we'll use, but it's obviously impossible to cover an entire nation, especially with our limited resources. If they're just hiding in some corner, waiting for their orders to come, we're unlikely to find them. If they stay close to the action - Where you predict them to be if they want to acquire crucial information or to influence proceedings - the matter is an entirely different one. Then we can get them.

"We'll have to be careful, of course, but overall, there shouldn't be many problems. All we need is some equipment, some of which we've brought with us, some men, and information regarding possible hideouts for the targets in question."

Again, Akito smi- Well, actually, make that a grin - Akito grinned. "And as far as the carrier group goes, I think we - Or more to the point, Jack - should be able to put together a few nasty surprises, should this be desired. It wont blow them up, of course, but we might be able to get a few specific targets on board."

What she didn't say was that even such a surprise would be rather suicidal and wouldn't have a particularly high chance of succeeding in its limited goals - But Jack ´Hamilton was exactly the kind of person that wouldn't care either way.

"So, until there's something else, we're ready to go."

The Klatchians had all walked out. Brezhnev raised him eyebrows, then shrugged, "It seems our Klatchian friends have departed. It would seem they have left me with a choice, war or assimilation into Klatch."

He paused glancing briefly at the press gallery, "We are not prepared to reassimilate with Klatch. If they want to own this land, they will have to fight for it. I do not want war, but it would seem it has become inevitable."

He paused again to glare at the Macisikanis, "Your continued refusal to admit our independence is vexing to a certain degree, your continued pleas of neutrality mean that the level of vexation caused are low. You should recognise our independence as it is the right of all people to be free regardless of ethnicity or species. Thus it is our right to be free from our opressors. A Government in Cyro that cared only for the timber and food coming out of this province, and free from a Federal Government which dances to the dual agendas of Vrak and Alcona and Hubris." he may not have consciously realised it, but Brezhnev spoke with the same bitterness towards the Federation as had nearly all previous Dyellian regimes. In the end, while declaring independence from Cyro, Brezhnev still sang from the same hymn book... he'd just done something about his grievances, while the Dyellians had not.

"However, as the Klatchians have deemed it necessary to walk out, it seems this conference is at a close. I would like to invite the delegates from the Drakonian Imperium and Scandavian States to talk further in a more private setting."

----------

All across the country the Moskauans were readying for war. Timaru, the only port, was flooded with troops, digging in shore batteries, while the North-Western frontier and border with Karmanyaka were also seeing large scale deployments. Tank factories were rolling out new tank models, although most units still had the Dyellian 'Carro Armato' light tank. MAS, the Moskauan aerospace company were also trialing a new fighter with promising results, although it looked unlikely the 'MAS-100' would be flying until well into the war, if war resulted.

The Landgrave smiled, "It would be intresting to see the similarties and diffrences in the rules we both use in our Codes of Honor General. I've been to enough of the world in a capacity of trying to make people realize that my intentions were good to know that many cultures have varying Codes of Honor, varying beleifs in what is right or wrong."

Alconians had a fairly deadly honor code compared to most of the world. You could still be cut down by someone in a duel of honor. Especially a peer, who was more at risk than a Freeman. And the Vaux were not expected to uphold their honor in battle. But they had also learned their honor code ended at their shores (and varied somewhat from Duchy to Duchy actually).

"But thank you for the breif snopsis General, I think the staff member who will inquire more into it will be quite enthralled with the subject."

Lucane simply nodded and then his Blackberry beeped as the LNS news reporter inside posted Brezhnev's remarks on the LNS-1 News Bulletin. He paused and held it up so that the Landgrave could read it:

We are not prepared to reassimilate with Klatch. If they want to own this land, they will have to fight for it. I do not want war, but it would seem it has become inevitable.

However, as the Klatchians have deemed it necessary to walk out, it seems this conference is at a close. I would like to invite the delegates from the Drakonian Imperium and Scandavian States to talk further in a more private setting.

"It was a pleasure meeting you. I believe that I have to go and inform Commander Ring that we have a war to plan."

*****

In Tollan the order was passed that Retaliatory Guard forces at the Karmanyakan border halt and resupply. Ambassador Segraves of Karmanyaka was contacted and given the task of contacting The Lord Tengil and securing the right for the Retaliatory Guard to cross Karmanyakan territory if need be.

Ambassador Segraves picked up the phone and called The Lord Tengil's Office. "Ambassador Segraves of The Free Republic, I would like to make and appointment to speak with the Lord Tengil, it is on a rather urgent matter I am afraid."

(Er. SS...I'm confused about where you think you are...and where you think your going...Since I assumed you were approaching Vrak from the north...)

The Landgrave nodded, "Actually we had better all leave, you see Brezhnev has a major problem General. And it is not Vaadia..."

The Landgrave walked to the door miffed by the entire buisness. "Oh, and for everyone here...if their are any anti-matter detonations within the Klatch...we will be wiping this place off the map."

(Oh, point of fact, that point I was commenting on is about halfway up Lake Olympus. But considering that it is fall, that is going to be getting fairly icy soon anyway)

"It's a fairly typical Dyellian bunker system. Three concrete shafts dropped into the earth. Two parallel shafts drop 400 metres into the installation. One runs a lift the other shaft is a stairwell and maintenance for the lift. There is another hidden emergency exit shaft somewhere in the desert. I don't know where it is."

Davies paused in her description of the facility, "Once you're inside there is an a long hallway with guard rooms on either side and a fire door. Further down the coridoor branches to the left where the living quarters are. If you carry straight ahead the gate is there. You come out on the second storey. There is a lift on your left that goes down to the gate itself and the control centre on the right if you follow the catwalk around. If you follow the catwalk right around to the far end there is a generator room."

She paused her brow creased in concentration, "That's about all I've seen of it. They had a project where they were trying to colonise another planet some time ago."

It was left unsaid that this colonisation plan had been carried out without informing the rest of Klatch in true Dyellian style, "The settlers were mostly refugees from Jiddady."


"Quite...well I assume this facility is under Checka control?"
----------

"Yes." Palmer replied simply, having decided to tell the truth.

"Please describe the nature of this activity..."

----------

Collins raised an eyebrow, "I'm not trying to hide the truth." she replied with a very slight narrowing of the eyes, "I am merely stating a fact. I have never been found guilty of piracy. Legally speaking I am as innocent as a newborn lamb."

A very slight smirk communicated the fact that she was well aware that everybody knew differently, "But let us not talk about this. Whatever may have happened in my sordid past, happened then. I am a widow and an expecting mother, I am not about to do anything that will endanger the future of the child." the last was spoken with deep conviction.

Mr. Teddy shook his head, "New born lambs are quite tasty...the Var do not want innocence, they want Honor. But this is a matter that time shall tell upon. Doctor, I think that Mrs. Collins should have a prenatal exam before she is taken to her temporary residence."

*******
Moskau
The Saab 2000 suddenly dropped a small hovercar onto the tarmac that immediatly began to make for the Hotel. If anyone tried to stop it, well it was armed with 20mm rail guns. At the speed the rounds left the chamber, they would likely penetrate light armor.

North East L.O.W.

The five Karlord sat around the table watching the LNS-1 broadcast.
<He has declared that they are no longer Federation> The youngest of the Var stated in high Var. It sounded as if three whales were being tourchered.
<Yes, these Moskauvites are quite foolish, they shall soon known the yoke of our Houses> Another Var, slightly redish black added.

The central Var, Karlord Keth'ga of House Be'nikit shook his head in agreement. <It is time, sound the horns of battle...our Houses march to glory>

Transmission in Clear
(It was bounced off several satilites to no one in particular, but then the Var didn't really care what the Terran nations did)

We the House Be'nikit, with House Zepthra, House Ke'ner, House Utr'a, and House Napnic declare that we find the armies of Kafski armed by the Terrans of Moskau to be a threat to our livelyhoods and our lands. Kafski are unthinking creatures not worthy of such honor, and dangerous if given such. So we do now declare combat upon these Terrans and declare them unfit to rule themselves. That they shall be defeted and bound to our Houses for the rest of time. Those who stand against us shall know our strength, and shall know our wrath.

We march as Houses of the Lords of War, we march as Var into battle with our enemies, the Kafski loving of Moskau. Death for Victory!

The Northern Waters of Lake Olympus

Actually it should have been the northern ice of Lake Olympus. For as winter settled in the lake was freezing over from north to south. Which ment that the Moskau Federations Port was actually going to be impenatrable to anything not an icebreaker soon.

However, considering the five groups of grav cruisers now moving from the northern territory of L.O.W did not really care too much. They were actually floating about 100 meters above the sky.

Each group consisted of five grave cruisers. Their upperworks looked like a pre-dreadnaught (although they were about ten percent larger than an Iowa battlecruiser) and their bottom had several ball turrets around the hull. The hull also had four bulges.

At the center of each group was a grav transport ship. It was twice the size of the grave cruisers and looked like a floating pill bug.

The grav-cruisers were being escorted by groups of long range, air breathing fighters.

**********
Encryption - MAX; JDF protocols 0298402 Delta Omega; route: Lords of War; route:...complete
**********

Requesting overflight permission to conduct air campaign against Timaru and Moskau. Requesting possible ICBM flight clearance over your lands but we feel this may not be necessary.

As well, we have encountered orc forces north of your lands. We understand that this is part of your hunting grounds. What you may not know is that the orcs we encountered have acquired modern weaponry. This may not be a hinderance to you, but it forces our planners to allocate more resources for our current campaign in the north.

We are open to discussion as to where best to position our forces for maximum effect.

====

Hunter Killer squadron #4 and #5 suddenly went active. These were the same 12 submarines that were lazily drifting towards the eastern coast of Timaru and Moskau when the conference was first called. They began to quietly move even closer so as to be within range with their cruise missiles.

The shipyards of Vrak Chumphon increased in activity. It seemed that the few carrier groups left behind were being loaded with men and materials.


Some oocness:

HK#4,#5 (type I)

Each Type I

1 Sub - TYPHOON class
1 Sub - Project 949A Antey / Oscar II
2 Subs - Sierra class Attack II
2 Subs - Shuka-B Akula class II

To: House Vrak Encryption Copy of Vrakian JDF Protocols
******
House Vrak is granted limited overflight rights of the Enclave. All aircraft over L.O.W Territory is required to follow flight paths given by our air traffic controllers. We will not permit overflight of ballistic nuclear missles as they are too aniquated to be considered safe.

Futhermore we know that many of the Orcs have been gaining terran weapons. We have long ignored this problem as it has only increased the sport of our hunters.

However, you are crossing in areas with limited paths for your equipment and supplies. There are better trails to the south contructed by the Alconians in their prusiut of mineral wealth from their enclaves along the shore. Twenty miles east of your futhest position is a larger gorge than the one that currently heads your progress. There is a primitive rail line that transports ore from a gold mine that follows the gorge but does not cross it near your location.

The only bridge capable of holding your equipment is nearly sixty miles south of your present line of assult.

The Confenderacy has decided to allow the five young houses led by House Be'nikit deal with these upstarts. If you wish to join them, we suggest House Vrak directly contact House Be'nikit as the senior member declaring combat with Moskau to coordinate efforts.

The Council of The Var.

Lucane's blackberry beeped again, this time with a message gleaned from the Retaliatory Guard's RASTER satellites:

We the House Be'nikit, with House Zepthra, House Ke'ner, House Utr'a, and House Napnic declare that we find the armies of Kafski armed by the Terrans of Moskau to be a threat to our livelyhoods and our lands. Kafski are unthinking creatures not worthy of such honor, and dangerous if given such. So we do now declare combat upon these Terrans and declare them unfit to rule themselves. That they shall be defeted and bound to our Houses for the rest of time. Those who stand against us shall know our strength, and shall know our wrath.

We march as Houses of the Lords of War, we march as Var into battle with our enemies, the Kafski loving of Moskau. Death for Victory!

He shared it quietly with the Landgrave again "I think we should exit this place as hastily as possible. I will be suggesting to Retaliatory Guard Command that we should stand down unless....." he has to stop and chuckle "unless the Var have difficulties in subduing Timaru and Moskau."

He then headed decisively for the door, radioing his crew to have the Marathon ready for immediate departure. The co-pilot also armed the 40mm autocannon attached to the transport's underside, just in case.

The Landgrave nodded, "Actually that is only five houses, and none of them a Great House, going after this upstart state. You might want to consider preparing to finish off your enemies after those Junior Houses fail. Of course Moskau will be so badly mauled by the experience the'll likely fall to even the Mackistani. Let alone an enemy of Ilek-Vaad."

The Landgrave began to move to the door. He knew his transport would be inbound.
"Well General, I hope you have a pleasent ride home. I know I'm likely going to be having a bit of difficulty. I wish those young Var had waited until I was saftey away but...their young and eager"

Press Confrence Port Olympus
The new press secretary for the Federated Klatchian Coast was an older, dour gentleman in a gray suit with a bow tie. He looked more like a professer with his wire rim glasses, his accent indicated he was from Port Olympus (not A+H!) or New Shiron.

"Good day, as you are all aware, five Houses of the Var led by House Be'nikit have declared open combat upon the independent Federation of Timaru and Moskau. This was due to the decleration that the independent Federation would not remain a territory of the Klatch, and therefore all treaties between the Klatchian Federation and the Interplantary Confenderacy are void. I should point out at this time that this is not an attack by the Interplantary Confederacy, but an independent action by five of Houses of the Confederacy. Obviously some of our foreign neighboors might think this is an attack by either the Federation or the Confenderacy. Actually this is not true, it is an independent operation and threating either the Confenderacy or the Klatchian Federation will only be a detrimental activity."

He paused and adjusted his glasses, "The Federation has not taken a stance on how to deal with Squater States. However, the Constitution allows for independent action by Federation States or their sub-units in the matter. I am now prepared to take questions...."

Command General Lucane nodded as they stepped out into the snow. "Good luck to you as well. Hopefully The Free Republic and The Federation can work out their differences and when we move in to finish off the Moskauns it will be in support of the JDF."

With that he was off through the snow.

*****

Great Lassic, Ilek-Vaad

Brief statement from Assistant to the Minister off Foreign Affairs:

"The Free Republic views the apparently impending conflict between these Var houses and the unicorporated territory formally belong to the Socialist Republic of Dyelli Beybi as a purely internal matter for the legal entities involved.

The Var houses are well known for their punitive raids against orc marauders in unicorporated Klatchain Territories and this current action shall be seen as the same.

There are no further comments from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or The Republican Council, thank you."

*****
Press Confrence Port Olympus

A poorly disguised reporter jumped to his feet "Pat the............er, Lars McMasters, LNS Satellite News, what ever happened to self determination? Why would the Federation allow the Moskauns to come under attack by these Var houses for simply declaring how they want to live and govern themselves?

How does Sir Ozy sleep at night with this carnage being done in Dyelli Beybi on his watch!?"

Press Confrence

The Klatchian Federation fully beleives in self determination. If Moskau were to remain part of the Federation, they would be able to determine their laws, government, society without any interference. Only their relationships with the outside world would be reviewed to protect us all. The Klatchian Federation is as much here to protect each state from each other as well as the outside world."

He paused, "It was Moskau's choice to take the path it desires. It is Moskau now that must deal with the consequences of those actions. The Klatchian Federation protects Klatchian States, not independent states on Klatchian Territory. That may be harsh, but this is a harsh land."

"As for Dyelli Beybi, what side should the Klatchian Federation take? Shall we side with the Imperial government, the Socialist Democratic Police State, the constitutional monarchy catholic theocracy, the inhumane tribal D'reg Olarchy? And while we are at it, what choice should President Ozy make for the new King of Vrak? Because that is going to be a fairly bloody affair soon too. There will be assasination attempts and fights to the death as part of the Vrakian succession custom. Well Pat I would like to hear your answer.
Then I will inform you of why the Klatchian Federation has made its choice"

Colonel Kirig watched with interest as Akito delved into a trance and then suddenly, abruptly, came back to reality. It was weird, but also fascinating. Thankfully, his men waited outside the conference room.

He listened politely as Akito offered a synopsis and was about to utter a response when a polite knock interrupted his thoughts. He barked in Vrakian and the captain entered.

-Yes, Captain?
-Colonel. Five lesser houses of the Var have declared war upon Timaru and Moskau.
-I see. Any word from High Command?
-None yet, sir.
-Then the original mission parameters stay the same. Once our guests are in the field, there will be little to stop them.
-Yes sir.
-How is the King’s Own squadron? Are they ready?
-Yes sir. Out of our ranks we chose those that resemble and speak Dyellians as best we could. They are outfitted in their uniforms as well.
-Good. I will give you a more complete list once we are finished.
-Yes sir.

With that, another salute and the captain exited. Kirig turned and then spoke.

“Well, it seems that the Var, or at least elements of them, have declared open war on Timaru and Moskau. So, it seems that our schedule is speeded up. I think that a drop here…”

A finger on the map very close to the western border of Timaru and Moskau.

“…should work. It will require a high degree of stealth and we can likely divert their attention elsewhere. Then you can slip into Timaru and Moskau itself and eliminate whatever psykers you can find. We have reason to believe that Glorious Humanity will have psykers already there. They did send a delegation to the conference and did express interest in the fledgling territory. How close do you need to get?

A frown.

“I don’t know how close we can get to the carrier group. We are currently watching them with information through the JDF and our own networks. They haven’t done anything yet, at least what we know of. And we don’t know if any of them are in Dyelli Beybi proper. You said that you cannot cover an entire nation. Very well. The VIS is currently trying to ascertain where they might be or plan to be should they move in that direction. Can you focus yoru scan just on the carrier and tell their relative...er...psyker strength and their movements? That is, if a pysker leaves a carrier I would like to know. I am interested in what sort of surprises you have in mind.”

A pause and then he continued.

“First, the elimination of any Glorious Humanity psykers in Timaru and Moskau. Then, the establishment of some kind of detection countermeasure specifically aimed at their carrier group. Sabotage within Timaru and Moskau is secondary and will be left up to my men. I want you in, out and then back here to watch them. If GH decides to send in more psykers to Timaru and Moskau that you detect, then your orders are to eliminate them. It will be a warzone that I am sending you in. The Var are on the move and while our convoy here….”

Another indication with a finger.

“…will likely link up with them, they will undoubtedly be kept busy for a little while with the orcs. Which we now know have modern weapons. Here are the latest terrain maps and weather forecasts for that areas.”

A slim folder was withdrawn and set neatly before Akito and Jack by the Colonel.

“I have 20 troops ready to go. What sort of equipment do you require?”

He then folder his arms.

"Of course, I should also inform you but I'm sure you already know, that we will deny any involvement. Then again, you will be rewarded handsomely upon successful completion of this job."



ooc: a map of where my forces are. The red line indicates how far the convoy has gotten. I think it's a reasonable estimate but I can always shorten the line. The purple squares indicate sub squadrons and the blue are carrier groups.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/KingVrak/TimaruandMoskau_Vrakconvoy1.jpg

edit: update. The lastest map of Vrak brought to you by The Freethinkers. I just have to add some things but this will give you a good idea with regards to terrain. Thanks Free!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v666/KingVrak/Vrak_byFreethinker_20060221.png

[Alcona, I know exactly where I'm going. Just thought I'd have a little fun, is all.]


A raised hand indicated another question and a soft Gaelic brogue marked her as a definate outsider, "Aidan O'Connel, Dublin Times. Since it seems you have gone out of your way to disavow any official Klatchian sanction in this matter, are you also paving the way for non-Klatchian nations to defend the Federation of Timaru and Moskau?"

The Klatchians had all walked out. Brezhnev raised him eyebrows, then shrugged, "It seems our Klatchian friends have departed. It would seem they have left me with a choice, war or assimilation into Klatch."

He paused glancing briefly at the press gallery, "We are not prepared to reassimilate with Klatch. If they want to own this land, they will have to fight for it. I do not want war, but it would seem it has become inevitable."

He paused again to glare at the Macisikanis, "Your continued refusal to admit our independence is vexing to a certain degree, your continued pleas of neutrality mean that the level of vexation caused are low. You should recognise our independence as it is the right of all people to be free regardless of ethnicity or species. Thus it is our right to be free from our opressors. A Government in Cyro that cared only for the timber and food coming out of this province, and free from a Federal Government which dances to the dual agendas of Vrak and Alcona and Hubris." he may not have consciously realised it, but Brezhnev spoke with the same bitterness towards the Federation as had nearly all previous Dyellian regimes. In the end, while declaring independence from Cyro, Brezhnev still sang from the same hymn book... he'd just done something about his grievances, while the Dyellians had not.

Moskau
The screen flickered again, as Julia's next directive filtered through; she was working to a precise timetable.

Actions bound by Cabinet resolution CR92831 (Neutrality in Dyellian Matter) and HR9302 (Enforcement resolution). Unable to involve directly; participation contravenes spirit of resolutions.
Parliament uncooperative.
Reaction unfavourable.
-J

deRenci smiled coldly and murmured "step three..." as he rose to his feet.
"Stay vexed then," deRenci threw back at Brezhnev; his fragile patience had snapped. Something the other had said clearly rankled with the envoy. "My government has declared its formal neutrality in this matter, and its intention not to intervene without the consent of all parties involved," he continued. "Parliament has passed a resolution enforcing the cabinet declaration to that effect; despite the moral imperative to involve ourselves that you keep on calling on, the UIK is nation of law and now there is simply no way we can affect this situation."
He paused and glanced at the screen, counting in his head; he reached "two" when it flickered again.

Terminate session. No further purpose served. Withdraw press.
-J

"If you still want us to change our stance, you'll have to talk to my lords and masters in Arn-Maciska. But then, they may not believe your nation will survive long enough to be recognised."
With that, he swept from the room, his attendants in tow.
Up in the press gallery, the UIK correspondents were blank as they hurried to follow the envoys out. What they would print was a mystery, but it was a fair bet, judging by the fact that the Arn-Maciska Times was filling out his paper's crossword, that Timaru and Moskau was bound for the far end of the lifestyle section.

Hours later, on the plane back, deRenci recieved a call from Julia; he was to make himself unavailable to the press for the next few weeks. Her office would be the only source on the matter.

Press Conference
How they managed it was a mystery, but they did it; they got a reporter to Port Olympus. When the answer to the Dublin Times' question had been given, another reporter raised his hand.
"Jerek Vasard, Macisikani Press Alliance. Sir, given the instability that it has caused across the FKC, will the Federal Government intervene in the situation in Dyelli Beybi?"

[Alcona, I know exactly where I'm going. Just thought I'd have a little fun, is all.]


A raised hand indicated another question and a soft Gaelic brogue marked her as a definate outsider, "Aidan O'Connel, Dublin Times. Since it seems you have gone out of your way to disavow any official Klatchian sanction in this matter, are you also paving the way for non-Klatchian nations to defend the Federation of Timaru and Moskau?"

[Thats nice, I didn't follow where they were going...:confused: Which makes it difficult to Rp a response...:p ]

"The Klatch will not allow violation of Klatchian Waters or airspace by any third party nation that does not have a legal agreement with those in direct territorial control."

[T+M's big problem...it's surrounded by the Klatch]

"Jerek Vasard, Macisikani Press Alliance. Sir, given the instability that it has caused across the FKC, will the Federal Government intervene in the situation in Dyelli Beybi?"

"I refer back to my answer to the Llama on that point. The Federation will intervene when one side has demonstrated a clear intention of treason towards the rest of the Klatch."

[Alcona, check your TG's.]

[Note: Navigation Error, entire region below the second continent on the map S.S.]

[Er, what? Methinks you aren't reading the movements right. The fleet is presently moving S-SW and will turn south wants it hits the Northern Sea. One it clears the Lonto Marches it will turn E and begin steaming for Dyelli Beybi.]

OOC: Response, please DB?

The foray into the northern territories was clumsy in that the Vrakians didn’t do any proper recon closer at ground level. Apparently an over reliance upon satellites or, perhaps more accurately, oversight on what they should be looking for is what caused the first encounter to go, well, kinda south. True, the Vrakians did come out on top since they had superior equipment. But modern wielding armed orcs caught them off guard. However, Vrak rarely repeated the same mistake twice.

UAVs launched from the carrier groups along with smaller versions from the rocket artillery would try to ensure that the Vrakians weren’t caught flatfooted again. The advice from the Var caused the entire convoy to make for the bridge but it would take perhaps at least two days to capture the structure.

Thus, at least six massive Condor transport planes were hurriedly stocked with paratroopers and prepped to go. As well, at least one carrier group launched a compliment of fighter bombers, with possible targets picked out from whichever the UAVs and SATCON would send back.

More ominously, the bomber squadrons were activated. Long-range cruise missiles were checked and loaded onto their respective aircraft while maintenance crews did last minute prep. A full compliment of fighters would accompany them and once over flight permission was secured, the planners had yet another way to attack Timaru and Moskau. According to the map, they could approach the target from at least two directions without crossing over the LOW state. With did release some tension in the room.

====

The Supreme Commander in the former New Shiron territory looked over his latest intel report. He frowned as he replayed Brezhnev’s defiant words. Then, he began to make preparations for sending a portion of his forces to aid in Karmanyaka’s defence.

He only hoped that Timaru and Moskau did not attack in the meantime, but he was sure that the bombers would likely cause some damage along the border. Again, he thought of the firepower just in the two submarine ‘fleets’ that lurked beneath the waves in the Bay of Lunacy. It would be lunacy, he thought, if they were to launch their payload. He quickly dismissed the thought from his mind.

He managed to make his superiors aware that they shouldn't be distracted with the upcoming campaign and to be vigilant of the Scandavian fleet and of their highly militarized southern neighbour.

OOC: I'm sorry I haven't dropped in earlier. It's just that I haven't got time for much RPing for the moment. This'll just be a short episode on my part.

IC: The Lord Tengil's secretary answered the phone.

"Yes, Mr. Ambassador, I'll see if I can arrange a short meeting. The lord Tengil is free around lunch so you're welcome to see him then."

--

The Lord Tengil sat in the dining room at the end of a blackened old oak table. He was a large man and enjoyed a good meal as much as anyone. Probably more than most. He looked up from the plate that was being placed before him and smiled at the ambassador while he lifted his fork and weighed it before stabbing a defenceless piece of meat.

"Ah, Ambassador! Do sit down, there's plenty of rabbit for you too. With Karmanyakan bread." he paused and poured down some dark red wine. "So, Hunt, what's so urgent now then?" he asked and looked seriously into the ambassador's eyes.

"I guess it has something to do with this Moskauan mess, right? Damn right chaos is what it is! I have been forced to send forces up there to the border. Already there are reports of small skirmishes with Maoskauan troops. I'm just waiting for some major incident to start a full-scale war here..."

(OOC SEA, your post went to Federal Government, DB isn't exactly in a position to respond to that.)

----------

Davies shook her head, then nodded, "Yes, it's a Cheka facility, but it has regular troops on guard duty."

----------

Palmer didn't seem overly keen on elaborating, but did anyway, "In the interests of continuing this mission to convey information to the Lords of War, fuel was taken at gunpoint and without payment from a Vrakian ship. This fuel was essential in ensuring the ship made it this far North."

----------

Collins meanwhile raised an eyebrow, "What interesting implications your comment carries... I will submit to an examination."

It would find both mother and unborn child were perfectly healthy. Collins herself had a few superficial bruises about her person, but certainly there was no reason to assume the child might be at risk in any way.

The Karmanyakans weren't really being targetted by Moskauan patrols, although in the mountains it was hard to necessarily tell exactly where the border was...

They weren't exactly friendly, knowing full well war would probably break out in days. There were definitely more of them around though. Unlike in Dyelli Beybi where the land was open and clear, around the Moskauan border there was heavy forest, obscuring sattelite images. Even IR would have trouble working out what was down there. The soldiers were wrapped up so tightly against the cold that they gave off a negigeable heat signature, and most of the vehicles were sitting idle, meaning they did the same.

----------

Meanwhile in Timaru, defensive preparations continued. The Moskauans were preparing to fight a war where the enemy had air superiority. Tunnels were being dug under the city, linking sections of the sewers, while other Moskauan troops were spotted working far out on the ice flows, drilling holes.

----------

'Fighting the Var' had become an extremely popular cause in Moskau. Orcs were signing up for the armed forces in their thousands. The promise of what most Moskauans percieved as slavery for the human population, had also galvinised Dyellians and Moskauans alike to sign up. Numbers were swelling, but the army didn't have weapons to go around.

[No, realize that isn't 'open' waters S.S. Those are the Haadidarian Straits and the Squall Straits, which means passing right by my Home Islands You can not go 'south' off the map because their is a continent off the end there...You can do it, but if your worried about me...well you should worry then]

[From what information Alcona has supplied me, there's basically nothing of civilization in the area where most of the orcs live. I think I shall use that to make life a little more interesting for Vrak's division. Admittedly, I'm going this to see just how good he is with land warfare. Alcona, you mean to tell me this (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v172/NSFlags/thenorthernseas.png) isn't an open route? Why ever not?]


In a way, it was strange. The Imperium had made it clear, almost in spite of Sadira's mind games, that it would back Timaru and Moskau to the hilt, yet nothing had happened. Not even an easily-deniable kinetic strike. It wasn't as if the armed forces of the Imperium weren't doing anything, it just seemed as if none of its was directed at the Klatch. Heavy, non-stop BARCAPs were constantly sortying from Aurora, the nearest territory to the FKC holding in Haven. The IAF had several bomber squadrons on alert and loaded with war ordnance, indeed any nation that had good recon satellites would be able to make out black radiation sign against the yellow nosecone of the missiles that the current nuclear alert squadron had under its wings.

Of course, as with all appearances, this one could be and was decieving. A lone tactical transport aircraft lifted off from an airbase in the Heleighan Islands and after reaching altitude simply disappeared from radar. Over the polar ice cap it met up with a tanker on what could loosely be called a patrol and was more probably a loiter. The transport wasn't in any hurry, nor was it as fully load, which saved fuel and allowed the aircraft to extend itself greatly. Once the aircraft entered Klatchian airspace, but as far away from a radar station as one could possibly get while still remaining in the Klatch, the aircraft dipped to 10,000 feet. It wasn't until the aircraft started picking up RF energy, far enough out that the originating station couldn't get a return but close enough to be faintly detectable, that the transport dropped to 500 feet.

Pvt. Roemer watched as the rear hatch came down and the butterflies began turning her stomach into knots. These kind of jumps were invariably the most dangerous, no time for the secondary chute to deploy and even in a good jump there was the possibility of developing shin splints that could turn into stress fractures later on, even in battlearmour. As far away as they were from any kind of real support and in the middle of an unforgiving tundra, that was worse than bad. Still, when the order came she dilligently stood up and hooked up and when the jump light turned green she was the last out off the ramp. The chute barely slowed her and the landing was nothing but a painful, bone-rattling jar. After stowing her chute in its pack Roemer found her platoon and took a knee while fishing out her taccomp from the pocket on the side of her ruck. Her armour was presently black, it was always a bad idea to turn your suit white before a jump into the arctic in case you were injured, but she intended to change that. The area around here wasn't entirely flat and nothing but white, outcroppings of rock were about, but it wasn't a common enough feature for her to be comfortable with doing anything but the standard white. It took less than a minute for the suit to change, monotone gradients were always the easiest for a computer to generate, and then she stowed her computer.

"Alright, here's how it is. Presently, we are about a hundred miles in north-east of the Vrakian division, which places us firmly in their path. Right now it's just this company, but the rest of the battalion will be filtering in and scuttlebutt has it that the regiment will be joining us as well fall back. The company is going to set up shop here for now and a platoon will be first up to create some havoc. Plan on it being us, because I'm going to try my damnedest to get the assignment. Y'all are out of shape anyway, a little marathon both ways and some combat between is in order."

"I see... Well, I hope Jack wont compromise stealth - Inside whatever will bring us there, this shouldn't be a problem, though.

"There'll be some issues with blending into the population, though - Not necessarily with me, but with Jack here..." Both, Akito and Jack grinned, just thinking about it. "It'd also be useful if we could have access to your own sources inside Timaru and Moskau. As far as distance is concerned..." Akito shruged. "Depends on how well defended they are against the kind of assault we'd try - Either effector or microdrone, I'd say. Ideally, a few kilometres are close enough.

"Incidentally, since you've reason to believe that GH psykers are already there - Sources, and what exactly are this reasons? Knowing this would be considerably helpful. Assuming that it's more than just GH sending a delegation there, of course.

"Also... Would it be possible to get us to where the delegation is? Moskau, I believe? That should - Could - make things a lot easier. Assuming that such an arrival isn't going to be particularly well-watched, that is.

"As far as the carriers go..." Akito chuckled, thinking of assorted options. "To do something aggressive, We'd have to get very close. Sadly, carriers can swim faster than Jack... And as long as they stay distant, no, we wont be able to scan them appropriately - We could do it if we had proper support from orbital assets, but sadly, we're not the DA military.

"However, if you watch the carriers and we check who arrives from them, in Timaru and Moskau, that should work, easily so - Call it last-minute intel."

She smiled. "And when we do that, having a lethal surprise waiting for them should be simple, too."

"In any case..." Akito leaned back, for a moment closing her eyes - This time, she was just relaxing. "The elimination of the psykers inside Timaru and Moskau should be reasonably simple - Assuming that they don't know what's coming, anyway. Obviously, it's better to get them all at once, otherwise they will know that something is coming, and be better prepared.

"Countermeasures against the psykers on the carrier group on the other hand are... Complex, assuming an ideal case, and impossible, assuming any other case.

"We should be able to look for ourselves reasonably well, regardless of where we are dropped - but obviously, getting the equipment we may need into the wilderness and out of it is an issue - depending on how we're going to proceed, that is."

She stopped, thinking for a moment... "As far as equipment goes, I hope you don't mind me transplanting the information into your head? I'll guarantee you, you wont forget it for a while."

Rhetoric question - She was already doing it.

A long list - Assorted electronics, explosives, base materials (They seemed to plan to build some things from scratch, or so it seemed), communications, the likes. All available in Vrak - Although some seemed to be rather expensive -, so no big deal there.

"But other than this details, we're ready."

Again a smile. Akito liked to smile. That the overuse of smiling tended to inflate the value of smiles didn't seem to bother her.

320 miles WSW of Timeru

Three of the five grav cruisers in each group began to speed ahead of the transports and their escorts. The squatters had not yet attacked even though the enemy was approaching. The fifteen ships, a mix of Bar and M'tec class cruisers reformed into two lines that swung out from the primary line of approach and then began to swing back.

Most of the fighter escorts suddenly accelerated. The strike fighters went from plodding along at less than sixity knots to mach one. They fired off their scramjet engines and began to push mach three.

The ground attack fighters likewise began to accelerate up to Mach 3. Both groups began to make a run for their first targets, the runways around Timeru.

As the fighters neared the coast, the fifteen grav cruisers opened fire. 9.5 and 13 inch tungstun shells flew into the defensive lines along the southern coast and continued to do so. The grave curisers oblige style of appoach allowed them to bring both forward and rear main guns to bear on the defenses of Timeru.

The C'alth
Zeelord Pe'tru stood on the bridge of his lead ship watching the holo tank display as the defenders began to react to the Var attack. <Remember, when the enemy anti-air shows itself, the guns should react instantly and fire upon that location. I do not think my enemies are weak willed or weak minded, only obstinant and unworthy of respect.>
<Yes my lord, Shall the B'tha release the first wave?>
<Yes, I have waited long enough for the peace talkers to leave Moskau, now they must find some new way out...or wait for our arrival...>

One of the M'tec class grav ships opened up their bomb bay doors. Several large missles dropped from them into the sky and ignited their primary rocket engines, upon reach mach 1, the rocket engines died off replaced by scramjet enginers. Each one was targeted at a runway or airfeild around Moskau itself.

Now Back to our regularly scheduled Program
Everyone around the table nodded, "Thank You...Miss Davies, I think you have an appointment with the Marshals in the study..."

******
"You and each member of the crew will be required to repay the Vrakians for their fuel with intrest. However, we were refering to the claims placed before the Federation by the Scandinavian States."

*******
Most of what was going on in the small cublicle was setting a base line for Collins and her child. After thirty minutes of being scanned and having blood samples taken, Collins was led to another automated gravcar. Final destination, up in the lower foothills of the mountains of the Enclave.

********

[We are on the same page...just note that Squall Straits is quite narrow...]

The remaining seconds were a blur for the Landgrave. The armed grav car appeared. The gunner stuffed the diplomat and his aides into the vehicle and they made a mad dash, ignoring all the local highway and speed laws, back to the Saab 2000. It would be close for them to escape before the incomming warhead turned the local tarmack into a pothole heven.

OOC: I'm sorry I haven't dropped in earlier. It's just that I haven't got time for much RPing for the moment. This'll just be a short episode on my part.

IC: The Lord Tengil's secretary answered the phone.

"Yes, Mr. Ambassador, I'll see if I can arrange a short meeting. The lord Tengil is free around lunch so you're welcome to see him then."

--

The Lord Tengil sat in the dining room at the end of a blackened old oak table. He was a large man and enjoyed a good meal as much as anyone. Probably more than most. He looked up from the plate that was being placed before him and smiled at the ambassador while he lifted his fork and weighed it before stabbing a defenceless piece of meat.

"Ah, Ambassador! Do sit down, there's plenty of rabbit for you too. With Karmanyakan bread." he paused and poured down some dark red wine. "So, Hunt, what's so urgent now then?" he asked and looked seriously into the ambassador's eyes.

"I guess it has something to do with this Moskauan mess, right? Damn right chaos is what it is! I have been forced to send forces up there to the border. Already there are reports of small skirmishes with Maoskauan troops. I'm just waiting for some major incident to start a full-scale war here..."


Ambassador Segraves smiles and bows to the Lord Tengil "Thank you, I haven't had dinner yet, it is a pleasure to see you." He helped himself

"Well the urgency has subsided somewhat, the Var lower houses will soon be in Moskau. I only want to see if I can secure your permission to move Retaliatory Guard Forces through your territory in the event that it becomes necessary, we could aid your forces in securing the border at the very least.

The Minister of Defence has also informed me that we will be decommissioning some ten thousand Thunderer II Battletanks, thirty five Vampire Tactical Bombers and over two million FN-Minimi Modified Assault Rifles. The Council thinks you should have first crack at buying them, for about ten percent of the original cost."

He samples the rabbit "Very good, my compliments to your chef."

*****

Command General Lucane hurriedly returned to his Marathon and they were off with military efficency.

*****

The whole of the Retaliatory Guard were on alert, their satellites fed a steady stream of video of all advances on all fronts to Tollan, these were then of course relayed directly to The Glorious Kingdom's military command.

The Retaliatory Guard were fully prepared for any eventuality.

Davies nodded more out of reflex than agreement, "I'll be heading that way then. Thank you for your time."

She still didn't really trust the Var minions. She hated being kept in the dark and they did that a lot, it was almost their specialty to only tell her the bare minimum. She approached the study with an all too familiar feeling of trepidation.

----------

Palmer shrugged, "On that I couldn't comment. I was a Lieutenant on the Marshall Suvorov until a few months ago."

The Marshall Suvorov was a hybrid Carrier-Battleship and had never been implicated in any suspicious activities.

----------

Collins wasn't blighted with nervousness in the same way as Davies was. If she had been as nervous as the Commisaar she would never have dabbled in piracy in the first place.

She sat glumlty throughout the ride. If anyone had been with her, they probably wouldn't have got much conversation out of her. Grief still gnawed at her. It probably would for a long time to come. It demanded revenge. Even if it took a lifetime, Soult was hers...

Timaru was being held by four Batallions of the 1st Army of the North. They used the highly dangerous Dyellian Lancia 1000 dual AA/rocket artillery truck, but only had 64 between them. Good weapons were hard to come by in the new Federation. Even so they could put up an impressive barrage. At long range each truck fired a SAM-4, a somewhat innacurate missile designed to hit heavy bombers at altitude, but at closer ranges they could each offload 20 SAM-2s in under a minute. The SAM-2 was Dyelli Beybi's new toy. A highly mannouverable missile that could clock up to Mach-4. The main disadvantage was it ran out of fuel quickly. Their were dual guidance systems as well. Usually the weapons relied on radar guidance, but a laser targeter could be used to swing the SAM-2s onto targets within visual range. However they were not built to last against an anti-tank rocket, much less a battleship shell, knocking them out was a simple matter of getting a shell onto them before they moved. Within minutes 14 of the units were nothing more than smoking wrecks.

The defences were suplemented by 32 dug in 152 mm Artillery pieces on the shore line which opened up on the ships with typically good precision, unleashing a barrage of SAP shells. The Moskauan troops were trained in the same schools that had taught the Dyellian Army in the South, meaning the Var could probably expect accurate and fast firing artillery and AA making up for rather poor tank tactics that tended to rely on sheer weight of numbers.

The runways were hit, although they didn't seem to have anything but civilian aircraft on them. In fact Marshall Popov, the man in charge ofthe defence of Timaru had sent his few aircraft well away from the front line, figuring a Var fighter would be more than a match for a MiG29.

Timaru
The Strike Fighters were the ones that came in first. They could easily manuver around the SAM-4's. They were manuvering in far tighter circles than most standard fighters would be. The Strike Fighers were big enough for the SAM-4's to take on, just too damn manuverable. Their special cockpits allowed the pilots to perform manuvers that would cause most fighter pilots massive problems.

The SAM-2's were another matter, there were only eighty Strike Fighers in the first wave. Which ment there was over sixteen missles available per grav craft. However the SAM-2's suffered from three problems, the strike fighters were not giving off good radar signitures which ment that they had to rely on their laser guidance systems. As the missles approached their targets, the Strike Fighters suddenly put on speed up to Mach 6 and when up into the atmosphere. Those missles that approached too closely were blown away by 40mm chain gun fire from the strike fighters underbelly mounted ball turret.

The Moskauvites were successful in damaging six strike fighters. One continued to fight, the missle having only taken out it's starboard wing pods. The remaining, suffering serious hydrogen leaks swung west and began to limp back towards the carriers. Most of them dropping out of Mach to conserve fuel. Two more fighters were actually taken down, both fiery wrecks the size of a B-1 bomber plunged into the city below and exploded as their hydrogen tanks and ammo errupted.

But the fighters did notice the lack of military aircraft around Timeru as they ducked and dogged the Lancia's fire.

The C'alth
Zeelord Pe'tru listend to the reports. <It would seem the squatters have removed most of the military aircraft from our targets, order the ground attack vehicles to focus on removing those annoying missle vehicles. Order the strike fighers to act as eyes for our main guns. Send out some drones, and release a few of the STOATS to make the Squatter's day intresting>
<Aye Aye my lord>

The Strike Aircraft retreated up to high altitudes and began to circle Timeru like vultures, sighting targets of Moskuvite artillery and AA for both the slowly approaching gravships and the ground attack fighters.

The Lancia's had a new problem, 120 ground attack fighters were now flying at 1.5 times the speed of sound to destroy their remaining number. Unlike their faster counterparts, the ground strike fighters had three 40mm chain guns that operated in independent turrets. The ground attack fighters used the forward guns to charge strait at the Lancias, creating a sheild of fast moving, explosive lead projectiles to destroy any of the Lancras missles.

The rear turret gunner spent most of his time snipping at any traditional AA units that might pop up, or a Lancia that tried to snipe using its sister as bait.

A few of the ground attack fighters dropped somthing. The large packages smacked into the ground and stood still for a moment, within fifteen miuntes there were almost tweny of the 'packages' littering the city.

(Er. assuming standard RAP shells D.B. your artillery would still be about 60 km short of hitting those grav ships. Unless I missunderstood what you ment by SAP?)

LOW did actually respect Dyellian gunners. Which is why the 152mm guns opening fire on ships too far out to actually be hit made them pause. The eight bar class grav cruisers, almost 200m above the lake at the moment refocused their four main coil guns on the enemy emplacements and began to send out round after round of 13 inch shells on the locations. Designed to penetrate Var composite armor, the shells were quite good at smashing reinforced concrete and dirt.

The Moskauvites now had people behind coil guns firing at them. The copper saboted tungstun rounds were fluidized and then accelerated down the spiral tubes at incredable speeds. The fact that the guns produced minimal recoil increased their loading speed.

The gravships continued to move forward and into the Moskauvite range of fire. As the occasional long shot slammed into the armored sides of the gravships they shrugged them off, the rounds were too small and too disperse at the moment to do much damage.

As the Bar grav cruisers fought an stacked artillery duel with the 32 shore emplacements, the M'tec's ten inch guns began to go after other targets spotted by the Strike fighters above.

Moskau
(Er what is the distance between Timeru and Moskau?)

The rockets exploded over their targets and sent fragmentary explosives onto the runways around the city. They also sent similar packages to those just dropped on Timeru into areas near the runways. The smaller explosives turned the runways into pot-hole heaven. Buick devouring craters now made Moskau's runways unavailable to anything other than VTOL aircraft.

Small OOC Note: It's 600 km more or less from Timaru to Moskau. Moskau is E-S-E of the port.

I'm assuming from the earlier comment that you are saying the LOW ships are about 90km from the shoreline?

The Study...A+H
*******

The unit buzzed for a moment, "The Government of the upstart Soult declares you have stolen this vessel. Please explain why or why this is not true..."

******

The vehicle was of course following a set course. The A.I. never said anything unless asked or needed direction so Collins got to brood on her own.

The vehicle kept on heading west and up into the hills, it passed several large towns without entering them and then drove into some dark, deep woods. Twenty minutes later the vehicle entered an automated gate.

Beyond the gate was a compound of spread out buildings that stood amongst the tall, ancient pine trees. Most of the buildings were two stories with the first constructed of stone and the second finished in shingles. Most of the buildings were fairly long and low. At the end of the drive was a much larger building, of the same style as the smaller structures. It dominated the place, one could make out the brightness of open snow reflecting the sun beyond.

The vehicle turned off onto a short driveway. The snow actually crunched as the force emitters compacted it. The drive stopped before one of the more remote cabins of the compound. As the grav car pulled up, it slowed and a man in a white uniform stepped out onto the porch and down the front steps that had been swept of snow.

As the door opened he smiled and held out his hand to help her out of the car, "Welcome to Lower Backridge cottage Mrs. Collins."

Of course to a Dyellian, the air was quite cold, -7.2 celcius.

The aide was so busy transcribing the various Diplomats speeches that he did not actually read the note the Alconan had handed him till well after they had left. Scrambling he closed his laptop handing it off before slipping out of the meeting as it dispersed.

Aisha was left pondering the Klatchians exits. One thing was quickly becoming clear, it had been orchestrated. What had the Alconan said? The memory game to her rapidly. "I have no need to go through another Nekoa Bay...," he had said. But skipping out on the conference could only mean one thing. No talk, lots of action.

She pulled herself out of her reverie, shooting a glance at the Glorious Humans, wondering what they thought of the entire thing. She could not tell. Her head turned back to Brezhnev, she had never even gotten to speak until now. "Yes, we would like that," she replied to his query. "Perhaps the Glorious Human delegation would be welcome to join us as well. After all, we have much to discus with yourself, even if the other nations here do not. Matters of Trade and Defense."

By the time the aide made it to the bar, it was likely too late. The Alconan had no doubt already left in their mad dash to their plane. He was left looking dumbfounded around the room.

"I would like to think that one of the reason there has not been open war between Klatch and the Imperium was because Dyelli Beybi was a democracy," Leo confided, as he followed Chlarissa to her car. "Now that that has changed, I don't know what will happen. But war seems immanent." He paused pulling out his cell phone and flipping it open. "I had better make a call to arrange for that Satellite Data."

As he put through the call, Leo found himself wondering if Chlarissa was trying to play him. She had a winning way, was easy to talk to, and very friendly. She was also attractive. All were qualities very useful for an intelligence operative. She was also a high-ranking official in the KGB. He felt a wave of weariness sweep over him; he was so tired of this game. He did not want to have to second-guess people anymore. He was tired of all the maneuvering, all the Dzerzhinsky's, and now maybe even the Dashwood's.

By the time he had run through the various code words and names, running through bits of the Latin alphabet, as well as the English one, they had likely made it to her car and were on their way. He relayed the deal he had made with Chlarissa, over the phone. He was just about to put close it and put it away when he saw a something fleetingly appear on the horizon. "Did you see that," he asked.

Moments later, it sounded like total chaos on the other end of his call. "Hello," he prompted. "What in Hades is going on out there?!"

The reply shocked him. "The airport is being bombed," he repeated.

Leo tried to remember where the plane had been. The person at the other end of the phone was frantic and barely intelligible. Last he had seen it was out on the Tarmac, he had not seen if it was taxied to the hanger. He tried to remember if he had seen any hangers capable of holding a 747-sized aircraft, but his mind failed him.

"Is everyone alright," he heard himself asking.

OOC: I am not sure whether my rather large target of a diplomatic jet was hit, it all depends on if the whole airport (or tarmac) was a target, or just the runways, or whether my plane was moved to hanger (and whether those were targets).

The Lord Tengil chewed a piece of rabbit for a long time while silently looking at the ambassador.

"You must understand me, Hunt. I'd like to be able to just say yes, but the last time Vaadian troops poured over my border I soon had JDF ships by my coast, Vrakian bombers above my head, Alconians breathing down my neck and a talking dragon in my government headquarters, for Katla's sake!"

He paused and drank some more wine.

"The cook's a Dyellian. Fled the fighting there, apparently he used to cook for the party leaders. Amazing cuisine in those desert countries, lots of spice."

He thoughtfully tore a piece of bread and fingered it while speaking slowly.

"As you see this is no easy decision for me to make. Unfortunately I am not sure I can say no," he smiled faintly "because I doubt your commanders would care much about that anyway. And I am in no position to say yes, because the FKC would never let Vaadian troops march across Klatchian territory just like that."

"If you can present a plan to solve this little dilemma, I'm sure we can come to a settlement." He took a bite of the dark bread.

Moskau

Millhouse smiled. "Yes, we are still interested in further talks, even if no one else is. Rarely are weapons the end-all and be-all of matters, and we would like to see your nation remain functional if at all possible." She stood, along with Johansen and Barstead, awaiting Brezhnev's answer.

Behind her, one of her guards fidgetted nervously with his radio; there were a total of three in the room, and after a whispered question to Millhouse they stepped away from the group to confer. At that moment, a sound faintly like thunder reached Millhouse's ears. A faint frown crossed her features. She was very familiar with thunder, having endured many of GH's famous monsoons, and that hadn't sounded like the distinctive crack made by electricity blasting through the air. In fact, it had sounded like explosions...

Things happened very fast at that point.

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

The Sealord

Telekinetic Broshen was blasted out of a very restful sleep by the wail of alert klaxons piercing his brain through his eardrums, wiping out his rest and leaving him feeling faintly drunk, reeling from the slug of adrenaline on his sleepy mind. It took about ten seconds for his brain to start processing enough to determine what was going on, to start differentiating sounds besides the blare of alarms, and fifteen before it could sort out the words accompanying the alarms.

"Alert, all hands to battle stations. Aircraft pilots, report to briefing rooms for possible emergency deployment. All Psi Corp personnel, report to your assembly points for immediate activation."

His mind now operational, Broshen swiftly rolled off the cot that he had been sleeping on. The rapid reshuffle of people had put more crew on the Sealord than there were normal bunks, so a large number of cots, sleeping bags, spare mattresses, anything that could be used for resting had been set up in lightly travelled halls and unused storerooms, creating fast quarters. Most of the Psi Corp had immediately sought rest after their flight in, storing up as much sleep as they could. They had all been aware that as soon as they were put to work, sleep would likely be a precious commodity.

Just over four hundred telepaths and telekinetics had made it to the patrol thus far, but with the reinforcements only hours away, they could easily link up with their brethren on the reinforcement ships. But the alarm had only been raised in the Sealord patrol. The reinforcements were only just now getting updated on what Sealord already knew.

It was on. The shooting had started.

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

Moskau

"Deputy Minister!" spoke up one of the security guards. "The airport is being bombed!"

Millhouse's blood ran cold. She now immediately could recognize the distant sounds as impacts, explosions. And those sounds carried her back a year. Back to an explosion she had been at the center of. The white light, white-hot heat, searing burning pain laced with a million knife cuts of shrapnel. Losing conciousness, certain she was about to discover the truth of the afterlife... she realized she had paled, and her breath was coming in short gasps, and hastily got control of herself. She forced color back into her face with sheer will, and got her breathing under control. Johansen and Barstead were watching her.

"We must evacuate to the jet immediately," the guard continued. "We have at most minutes before the runway is unusable. Orders are to bail out."

Millhouse didn't even consider it. Her eyes went flat, and her mouth formed a thin line. "No."

"No?" the guard was stunned. "Deputy Minister, our orders are-"

She turned to face him. "I am the ranking diplomat and leader of this delegation. Furthermore, I am the Deputy Minister of International Relations for Glorious Humanity, my authority is second only to Minister Frank Pierce and the President himself. It is my decision to remain here and continue negotiations."

"But-"

"But nothing. You are under my command for the duration of this. However, I do see that it is not necessary for all to remain here. Therefore, I authorize the evacuation of all nonessential personnel. Myself, Mr. Johansen, and Mr. Barstead will remain, along with two guards and two aides." She looked around, her eyes falling on Hartford and McCarty, the only two aides who had come with them to the meeting. "Those two will do. Two guards will remain as well. Two of you stay here, and the other one will go immediately to ensure that the rest of the staff are evacuating, to supervise and make sure all make it safely onto the plane. Those are your orders. Go. Now."

The guard paused, then snapped to attention and saluted. "Yes, ma'am." There was no real question of who would leave. He turned on his heel and left the room.

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

The Sealord

Broshen nearly collided with Telepath Sampson as he exited the storeroom that was his improvised sleeping quarters. The two men didn't even bother with apologies, each just steadied the other, and then they were running again.

There were three more near collisions as they passed other storerooms that were spilling their human contents into the central hallway before Broshen and Sampson arrived at a larger storeroom at the end of the hall. Unlike the sleeping areas, where bedding had been crammed in around supplies, this one had been emptied of all previous contents, and blankets had been thrown on the floor so the cold steel wouldn't be intolerable. This was the assembly area for Broshen's unit, thirty-two men and women who were the first emergency response group, the first unit of psykers that were to begin defensive measures if they were needed. In roughly two minutes all thirty-two people were assembled, thirty of them seated on the blankets looking at the two up front.

Broshen was in the first row, looking up at the face of Telekinetic Cole, the Focus for his group. Sampson was watching a female Telepath named Pera, the Focus for his group. Each of the Focuses represented the leadership for this response. Around their minds the links would be built, the center of the chain that would channel the combined mental energy of everyone here into whatever purpose it was needed for.

"Everyone, this is not a drill," Cole began. Pera was silent, her eyes closed, she seemed asleep on her feet as she listened to a constant feed of information from the telepaths on the ship's bridge. "We have been summoned to do our duty today. I have received only a quick briefing, what I know is that the delegation in Timaru and Moskau is in danger, and our intervention may be necessary to safely extract them. Prepare to join together, and go where I may direct."

Broshen wasn't the only one who nodded. None of them knew what they were about to do. But it had to be important. He waited for the order to begin.

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

The skies near Moskau

About two minutes after the first shots were fired, it had become obvious that Sealord had no chance of launching an escort that could reach the diplomatic jet in time. It was also considered that sending any warplanes into what was now a warzone could lead to unfortunate consequences. However, there was a Deputy Minister, a very high ranking official on the ground, and Dulles wasn't about to let her plane take off unguarded. Highly encoded messages were flying back and forth between all involved assets as plans were thrown back and forth, ideas suggested and rejected.

Eventually, it was obvious the only answer had to come from space. A squad of ten X-20 fighters had screamed out of Reachstar and raced down towards Timaru. They were flying fast and hard, and any scans of them would reveal that everything except engines and life support were powered down. No guns or missiles were ready to fire as they skirted and dipped in and out of Klatchian airspace. Furthermore, they made no attempt to conceal their presence. Indeed, the lead fighter was broadcasting a message that repeated over and over, broadcasting to anyone who was listening.

"This is GH Spade flight coming in to provide escort to diplomatic craft attempting to leave Moskau airspace. We are not, repeat not engaged in any offensive manuevers and our weapons systems are powered down. We will not engaged unless ourselves or our charge is fired upon. Repeat, we will not fire unless fired upon first. We only wish to extract our diplomats from the combat zone." This message looped, repeating over and over.

It wasn't the most diplomatic way to do this, but with the war about to start, there was no other choice. This was their only chance to get their people out before they were stuck for the duration of the conflict, and probably taken prisoner by whichever side won. That was unacceptable. GH had had a high-ranking member of the government taken before, when President Albert himself had been captured during a coup in Lavenrunz. Regardless of what happened, they were not about to let another official get caught in somebody else's crossfire.

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

The airstrip

On the tarmac, the pilot and copilot of the diplomatic jet were warming it up, getting ready to roll. They'd been radioed that the evacuees were en route, and to be ready to go the moment they got their passengers onboard. The small jet was ready to go on a moment's notice.

The pilot turned his head to make a comment to the copilot about the systems. He was having to shout to make himself heard over the explosions. It seemed like they were everywhere. Suddenly, they weren't everywhere.

One was right in front of them.

A terrific blast went off, momentarily obscuring the runway with smoke and shower the cockpit windows with bits of asphalt which rattled like hail against the glass. Both the pilot and copilot ducked instinctively, then when they realised nothing had gotten into the plane, they checked their controls. Everything was normal, no damage. Then the pilot looked out at the runway. And started to swear, half out of anger and half out of fear.

There wasn't a usable runway anymore. About two hundred yards ahead, a series of craters had annihilated any chance of takeoff as surely as if the plane itself had been destroyed. Even if they blasted off from a standstill to full throttle, they wouldn't get off the ground.

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

Knootoss

Ambassador Peterson was silent for several minutes, considering what the Alconan ambassador had said. Intel would skin him alive for sharing the contents of that envelope, however he'd already promised to show it to the Alconans if they asked. Besides, he wanted to know what was going on personally. He came to a decision and covered the mouthpiece so he could call to his secretary.

"Shannon, scratch that. I'm going to take the envelope with me. Intel can have it after I'm done." Then he returned his attention to the phone.

"Capital idea. However, I do not think we should continue talking over phone lines, however secure. We need to talk face to face, and I think the best location would be one of our embassies. I can come to yours, or you can come to mine, either way I believe we will be safe to talk about this situation behind our guards and security measures. Of course, if you have another location that could be secure enough, I'm all ears."

The Lord Tengil chewed a piece of rabbit for a long time while silently looking at the ambassador.

"You must understand me, Hunt. I'd like to be able to just say yes, but the last time Vaadian troops poured over my border I soon had JDF ships by my coast, Vrakian bombers above my head, Alconians breathing down my neck and a talking dragon in my government headquarters, for Katla's sake!"

He paused and drank some more wine.

"The cook's a Dyellian. Fled the fighting there, apparently he used to cook for the party leaders. Amazing cuisine in those desert countries, lots of spice."

He thoughtfully tore a piece of bread and fingered it while speaking slowly.

"As you see this is no easy decision for me to make. Unfortunately I am not sure I can say no," he smiled faintly "because I doubt your commanders would care much about that anyway. And I am in no position to say yes, because the FKC would never let Vaadian troops march across Klatchian territory just like that."

"If you can present a plan to solve this little dilemma, I'm sure we can come to a settlement." He took a bite of the dark bread.


Ambassador Segraves nods as the Lord Tengil talks "I can understand your position, and the last thing we want to do is to put you in a position that complicates your standing in the Federation."

He pauses and looks thoughtful "However, I am fairly certain that you can allow our forces access. You would not be signing a new treaty with us you wouldn't be allowing our forces to attack a Federation state, there is absolutely nothing in the Federation Constitution that could be held against you.

Sir Ozy has already intimated that Timaru and Moskau are new political territory that the Federation has no stance on. Having publicly said that they cannot fault you for doing what you believe is best to protect your state. After all, you border the rebels and the Federation has yet to send JDF forces to make sure that the border is secure after the Federation has given the Var Houses the go-ahead to atack.

If they are going to unilaterally decide that starting a war on your doorstep is right, they can't cry foul when you do your damnedest to prevent the fighting from spilling over. Your army is still recovering, Retaliatory Guard Forces on your Northern border would be an immense help, as would the new equipment."

He pauses and has a drink of wine "It would prhaps be adviseable if you maybe contact Sir Ozy or the Federation Consuls to see what they say, before you make a decsion, Johan. Don't do anything you aren't comfortable with."

The Lord Tengil shrugged.

"Very well then. I shall consult with President Ozy and I will give you my answer later..." He waved to a servant and whispered a short order in his ear. The servant nodded and disappeared through a door.

"Now let us eat and talk no more of this for a while!" the Lord Tengil said smiling.

---

Diplomatic transmission

From: The Office of the Lord Tengil of Karmanyaka
To: The President of the FKC, Sir Ozy Lewellyn

Mr. President, Sir Ozy!

I would like to know the federation's stance on a matter of utmost importance.

The Free Republic of Ilek-Vaad has requested free passage for their troops through Karmanyaka in the event of an attack on Timaru and Moskau. They will not be allowed to halt on Klatchian soil and they will not attack JDF forces unless provoked.

I have no reason to believe that this will in any way harm the FKC, and I hope therefore for their free passage.

Should we deny the Free Republic such access I fear Karmanyaka may become the battlefield of Vaadian and Moskauan troops.

Sincerely
-The Lord Tengil Johan Kader
the Dominion of Karmanyaka.

Moskau
The Foreign Minister's Saab 2000 had escaped, just barely, the attack on the runway below. The plane swung around to examine just what had happened. "Well that runway looks like the moon's surface" Wittelbach commented.
Sir there is an unidentified object between the tarmack and the runway
the pilot called out.

The Var aide went over to the window and stared out. "It would seem that the junior houses have sent hanibals into the area."

The Minister blinked for a moment, "Not a bloody STOAT reject?"

"Yes Minister, it would appear that they are using them...I would say that those diplomats are in grave danger."

"Damn it, we're going to get blamed for this...worse bloody mess than anything. But there doesn't seem to be any local aircover? Cockpit is there anything on radar?

A ton of stuff over Timeru, but it looks the locals are laying low here abouts

"Alright first contact the JDF base at the Karmanyanka border, send some long distance choppers up here to pull the diplomats out. And tell the diplomatic delegations..."

The Var Klatchian Marshal had turned and was now walking to the end of the plane. "I will return and organize these diplomats. A Hannibal is programmed not to attack a Marshal."

The Landgrave blinked, "Er...yes I guess..."

As the plane banked for Karmanyanka, a black flying creature exited the rear of the aircraft. Well less flying and more gliding, but it did have wings, and was making for the airport tarmac.

******

*******
Broadcast in clear
*****
To: All Diplomats in Moskau, and Diplomatic Personel
Subject: Destruction of airports, evacuation

I have just watched the destruction of the airport at Moskau by the junior Var Houses. I wish I could say that such action was unappreciated, but it appears that the Moskauvite Government ignored all of my earlier warnings on the subject. However, things are significantly worse for those of you who remain, the Junior Var Houses appear to have also sent in a few robotic killing machines to destroy more of the infastructure around the airports.

As such I am requesting JDF airships to immediatly cross the border under flag of truce to remove all Diplomatic Personel from Moskau.

I should note that this will be corrdinated by a Klatchian Marshal, a Var Klatchian Marshal.

-With high hopes for your safe return,
William Wittelbach, Klatchian Foreign Minister

******

To: Federation of Moskau and Timeru
Subject: International Diplomats

The Federated Klatchian Coast has just been informed that International Diplomats are in danger in your city. As such we will be sending in rotory aircraft to air lift them to safety. We should note that we will be televising their recovery and destruction of these unarmed aircraft will likely cause bad press.

*****

KCN News Live Report
We now take you to JDF Airbase Kamanyanka North where Gregory Himmel, working on a story about the border patrols has just taken off from that airbase north. Gregory?

Hello Jim, I am comming to you live via satilite to report on this Klatchian Mission to help stranded Diplomats in Moskau return home. Less that ten minutes ago a series of air bombs destroyed the Moskau airport, effectively leaving international diplomats in Moskau stranded.

"So what is the mission like?"

Right, well we are ridding on one of five, unarmed medical evacuation rotodyenes that are making their way north. I've been told they are broadcasting a International Red Cross IFF. But the crew is very nervous, with their nation under attack, Moskauvites may do the Dyellian thing of fire first and never ask questions...

"So you may very well die by Moskauvite hands?"

By Moskauvite AA, Jim

"Understood...we will continue with the live coverage of War on Moskau..."

*****

To: Lord Tengil
From: Sir Ozy
Subject: Vaadian Armed Forces crossing the border.

Any such agreement with the Vaadians demands approval by Parliament. If I might remind you of your earlier, rather trying, and ultimatly disasterous Treaty with the Vaadians was resinded by Parliament.

However, I am aware that time is precious and that Karmanyanka could benifit from being defended by Ilek-Vaad and the JDF.

As such, if your Senior Key in Port Olympus can gain four signitures of four Keys from three other states on your agreement. Then I will consider you to have a temporary agreement with the Vaadians until Parliament reconvienes to debate the matter.

This is a requirement because of Vaadia's constant, rather odd, interference in Klatchian matters. I am afraid that Vaadian action suggested, however honorable, will be seen as though done by Dyellians. Perhaps a bit erronous, but being in bed with the Socialist Dyellian Government has not done the Vaadian reputation any good within Port Olympus.

However,I would suggest seeking the signiture of the senior Key from the United Duchies for one, the Var Keys for a second, and the Burungi Keys for a third.

Also, I should inform you that two additional divisions of JDF forces will be moving into Karmanyanka's western border area soon. And we will be evacuating some international diplomats to your nation.

<Seal of the FKC>

**********
Encryption – MAX; JDF protocols Delta 8972942 Tango; origin: New Shiron Stabilization Task Force – Supreme Commander Admiral Iruk; to: Karmanyaka Military Command; route:…complete
**********

Requesting permission to land Vrakian forces to reinforce your border with Timaru and Moskau. Exact force numbers are classified but shall be within at least two divisions of each type (infantry-mechanized and tank/artillery). As well, at least 1 flipper of ground support will be allocated.

====

Iruk really did not plan the ground forces end of things, leaving it to the more than capable General Youlj Sansaeya. He smiled as the thought that his old friend wanted to retire after the New Shiron war with New Cynthia. But since Youlj was here the last time, the High Command believed he would be the best walrus for the job.

The Supreme Commander sighed. He idly wondered why he wasn’t called HORDE Commander since, well, due to the recent reshuffling in the military. He supposed that the High Command would likely place a HORDE district in this part of the Klatch which would make it the largest gathering of Vrakian forces outside of Vrak proper.

He reached for a bottle of whiskey. He would need it.

"Capital idea. However, I do not think we should continue talking over phone lines, however secure. We need to talk face to face, and I think the best location would be one of our embassies. I can come to yours, or you can come to mine, either way I believe we will be safe to talk about this situation behind our guards and security measures. Of course, if you have another location that could be secure enough, I'm all ears."

The reply was quick, "Quite, but there are some things we might want to show you that can't leave the building. So I think a meeting here would be best, don't you?"

**********
(D.B. I'll get to Davies in a moment...)

The Lord Tengil shrugged.

"Very well then. I shall consult with President Ozy and I will give you my answer later..." He waved to a servant and whispered a short order in his ear. The servant nodded and disappeared through a door.

"Now let us eat and talk no more of this for a while!" the Lord Tengil said smiling.

---

Ambassador Segraves nodded "Excellent idea. It may never even come to that, what are the odds of Moskau surviving against the Var anyway?"

He picked out some more rabbit " We simply like to have a plan in place for any eventuality."

Der Angst

“I hope you don't mind me transplanting the information into your head? I'll guarantee you, you wont forget it for a while."

Colonel Kirig shivered involuntarily. By Bok’s maw, now his brain was being…filled…with information. Can’t say he really felt anything which only caused him to be more nervous. Silently, he questioned the soundness of hiring these mercenaries when he just realized that Akito quite likely picked up on that thought. He looked at the drone perched on his shoulder and made a wave, indicating to Jack and Akito that he would like it, well, removed.

“Ah, well, please excuse me. I have to make some calls.”

=====

Within two hours, Jack, Akito, their drones, 20 King’s Own dressed as Dyellians and a crate or two of specialized and highly expensive equipment were on there way to the south-western border of Timaru and Moskau. It was dusk, so they should be able to parachute without too much trouble seeing how the pilot would hug as close as possible to the ground. About an hour in front of them and veering more to the north were 48 Blackjack bombers armed with cruise missiles. They would aim for major military installations as well as other large targets such as power generation facilities, bridges, etc…inside the territory. Each bomber was accompanied by 4 fighters which didn’t have a large margin of error. That is, the fighters would be nearing the maximum range and, quite frankly, may not all make it back to Vrak proper. Plan B would be to skirt across the southern border and land in Karmanyaka. Plan C? Land in LOW. But this was not exactly what they wanted to do nor was it properly arranged.

At the moment, the Vrakian aircraft were not flying over LOW territory itself but did have the option to cut back in case fuel ran low.

====

Scandavian States

The Far Northern Territories was lightly settled by the Vrakians, especially in regards to military personnel. But, there was a fairly reliable radar net set up – which was pressed into high gear since the King died. Which meant that new parts and personnel were hastily shuttled up to this forsaken land to crank up the installations for who knows what.

As it turned out, the usual paranoia that Vrak was known for paid off in that the sudden events in Timaru and the Scandavian fleet loitering far out could now be a bit more easily tracked. Still, it did not mean that all the equipment was up to snuff. So, the Scandavian transport did escape the ground radar notice.

But not the sky.

A long range A-50 did notice something unusual and four fighters from one of the aircraft carriers were sent screaming into the blue to investigate. As well, the information was translated to the convoy on the ground which was presently going south for the bridge. The commander was notified but did not want to end up chasing ghosts. He informed his rear guard to keep an eye out and tasked a UAV to cover that sector.

====

Near the bridge, the six Condors went in to the appropriate altitude for a drop. In fact, all 88 troops from each one expertly descended. They would regroup, eliminate any orcs and, most importantly, seize the bridge until the convoy arrived.

Back out in the North Sea, a routine patrol came back, reporting no orcs nearby since the last skirmish with the convey. It was a pity since they were hoping to drop some bombs and missiles on them.

The transport bearing the Vrakian envoy away was one of the first to leave. Rosaline did not stop to chatter with the Alconians and Vaadians for once she left, her instincts told her to get out of Dodge…fast. She looked out the window as they flew over the four carrier groups in the North Sea near LOW. She sighed and settled back down in her seat while mentally preparing herself for the debriefing.

Timaru

The Moskauans had underestimated range, and after losing a gun, dragged them back into the interior of the town from where they could pull them out later.

There was little or no sign of infantry or tanks. What the Lords of War would quickly notice though was that the AA worked in groups of four, meaning that attack fighters were hit from all angles once they made a run at one piece. Furthermore each Lancia truck had something that looked a little like a HMMWV with a chaingun on the roof. In fact it ran off the same targeting system as the Lancia itself to aim a Benjian 47mm chaingun at incoming targets. Helicopters were the GK9's bread and butter, but it was also more than suited to taking down attack fighters, especially in this kind of terrain where the vehicles were much harder to spot and target than the planes.

(OOC Note: GK9 is the Moskauan version of the Dyellian Sahariana, it is considerably better as an AA piece.)

----------

Moskau

The Moskauans were slightly unprepared for the attack on the capital. In theory the GK9s should have been able to act as CIWS and take down incoming missiles, but they weren't deployed. 600 kms was a long way for missiles to fly. The packages immediately stank of suspicious activity. Half a dozen AT-Rifle Companies were immediately kitted up for NBC work and dispatched to the area. These platoons were equipped with the Case Guns which had been rejected as 'too complicated' by the Dyellians. The gun looked like an oversized double barrelled shotgun with one barrel under the other.

The bottom barrel fired HESH ammunition while the top fired 'case' shot, which was in effect shotgun shells with a fuse that could be altered to allow the ammunition to explode at an optimal point from the target. This made the weapon lethal at ranged where a traditional shotgun was useless.

A further trio of fully kitted out troops in full NBC gear had appeared with some strange device that looked like a fan fitted to the front of a gas tank. The Moskauans may not have had nuclear weapons, but had inherited the Dyellian fascination with chemical agents.

There were plenty of hangars at Moskau International for all sizes of aircraft, however there was no guarantee for the Drakonians one of these hadn't been hit.

----------

Launching the attack would have been better timed for after the Klatchians had gone. Within minutes the Klatchian jet had picked up a pair of MiG-25PDs launched from an airfield in the South of the country.

Follow these coordinates for landing at Semenov A Airfield. This is unnegotiable.

Meanwhile the Vrakian attack had picked up a number of Moskavite fighters from Northern airfields. 24 MiG-31s and 36 MiG-29s had been assembled and hurled at the Vrakians. They were outnumbered by enemy fighters by more than 3 to 1, but had no intention of fighting without ground support. The nearest major Moskavite military facilities, a large truck factory complex was close to Timaru and heavily guarded against Var attack. In fact there were a further 32 Lacia in the area, which predictably immediately each losed a SAM-4 missile, targetted specifically the bombers. Ranges were too far for the SAM-2s.

----------

Chlarissa Dashwood's car was parked in an underground carpark beneath KGB HQ. At the sound of bombing however, she froze. One look at her eyes however would confirm she wasn't in a state of panic, she was thinking.

"OK." she opened the door to the passenger seat, "We'll stay here until the bombing stops, this carpark is safer than it looks. I'm guessing we're probably at war, which changed the situation a lot."

"Jesus." she shuddered, "I had hoped it wouldn't come to this. The Klatchians by and large are an inhumane crowd. Damnably unpleasant people with no respect for their enemies at all."

----------

In the building Brezhnev hadn't even blinked as the bombing started, "Naturally the Glorious Human delegation would be welcome." he laughed, "Although we do not really need to move."

He paused, waiting. He waited until an aid came in and whispered something in the local language in his ear, "Good." Brezhnev nodded, "This confirms things. We are officially at war with the Klatchians, although as usual they like to claim this isn't their war, it is only a war of certain 'factions within Klatch'. This is of course a lie. If these 'factions' fail the rest of the Klatchians will get involved."

"I really hate to be blunt, but I must ask you, all of you, straight to your face, how many of you would be willing to support Timaru and Moskau? We will not survive on our own."

[Hey, IV, is your task force still blockading the DB mainland at this point or have you withdrawn already?]

Timaru
In the building Brezhnev hadn't even blinked as the bombing started, "Naturally the Glorious Human delegation would be welcome." he laughed, "Although we do not really need to move."

He paused, waiting. He waited until an aid came in and whispered something in the local language in his ear, "Good." Brezhnev nodded, "This confirms things. We are officially at war with the Klatchians, although as usual they like to claim this isn't their war, it is only a war of certain 'factions within Klatch'. This is of course a lie. If these 'factions' fail the rest of the Klatchians will get involved."

"I really hate to be blunt, but I must ask you, all of you, straight to your face, how many of you would be willing to support Timaru and Moskau? We will not survive on our own."


"Mr. Brezhnev, the question becomes just how long you think you can hold out against the Var. The Vrakian division the Imperium can take out in short order with little in the way of proof that it was actually us. There are a couple ways the Imperium can inact a land war, although those are long term and there is no guarantee of success without support from other nations," she looked pointedly at the Drakonian and Glorious Humanity delegates. "However, with that support we can easily control the sea, land, and air. However, that is months or even years in the future and you can't hold out that long, can you?

"I must be blunt, Mr. Brezhnev, your best strategy at this point is to retreat to the edge of the Orc lands. You are friendly with them and they will protect you from any incursions. They Imperium will also be in a better position to defend your population. Alternately, the Imperium can offer you and your population asylum in either the Imperium itself or Haven proper. The Klatchians won't be able to touch you then and if they try they will quickly find themselves on the wrong side of some very powerful nations.

"In a roundabout way, I suppose my answer is that the Imperium is incapable of rendering sufficiently powerful support to your nation right now. What we have in Klatchian waters right now is good enough to sink just about any single navy, but it's not good enough against the entirety of the Klatch. For that, we'd need support from a couple other powerful navies as well. Same goes for just about any other aspect of war where the entirety of the Klatch is concerned."

Before

"Of course." Akito answered, seemingly amused, while calling the missile/ drone off.

And then details took over.

After

The aircraft's noise was all that could be heard - Well, not quite, there was some whispering and talking, but neither Jack nor Akito seemed to be particularly bothered by it, nor did they seem to want to participate.

Akito was somewhat occupied, anyway - Twenty soldiers with them, and she didn't want any of them to be 'readable' for their targets. There was of course very little she could do to prevent them being blown out like candlelights in a hurricane, should problems arise - but with a bit of what was, in its essence, not too different from encoding information, or protecting a computer with a firewall, at least secrecy would be assured for the time being.

Add in a few pseudo-minds, artificial memories of family, home, superior officers and orders that had absolutely nothign to do with what they were actually here for, memories the person in question couldn't actually access (Or notice), but which were the first thing an outside mind would notice, to maybe fool the opponent into thinking that they are just harmless soldiers (Rather than soldiers whose minds have been tinkered with, thus suggesting the presence of unconventional forces), subconscious processes that lead into nothing to simulate a nervous system (And give an attacking telepath a feedback suggesting that a nervous-system takeover has actually succeeded, rather than ended up being futile), and so on, up to traps that'd place annoying (Read: Potentially lethal) strings of 'thoughts' into the interrogating mind, corrupting neurons and basic bodily functions, should it probe deep enough to look beneath the curtain of lies supposed to disguise the soldiers.

She didn't exactly tell the twenty that she was doing it, of course, but it was in their best interest, anyway - Well, a few would probably feel effects similar to a light dose of marihuana, or have a light headache (The latter would probably return periodically), but all in all...

About ten minutes after she'd finally finished, they jumped, forming a neat, short line of mushroom-shaped figures slowly gliding towards the ground.

All that remained was surviving in the war zone and actually getting to their targets.

Julia Perez, ensconced in Sophronsa Aryet's office in the labyrinthine Ministry of External Affairs, Arn-Maciska, read over the press releases, intelligence reports, and communiqués with icy detachment. The distance of the United Imperial Kingdoms was at once both a blessing and a curse; the distance that at once kept the UIK safe from being entangled in situations like this, also severely limited any power the nation had to affect the outcome, which was why they relied so heavily on diplomacy.

But she'd pulled deRenci out, and from the terse conversation he'd had with her on the flight back, diplomacy had started nowhere and gone to the exact same location. The Moskauans had pursued moral arguments and only moral arguments from the beginning, and that simply did not cut the mustard with the Civil Service. Not to mention they'd managed to alternately aggravate and irritate deRenci from the start. Laying the folio of papers she'd been reading on the desk, she steepled her fingers and stared into space, considering her next move.

For a few minutes she sat completely still, and then her eyes came to rest on the Arn-Maciska Times; the editor had disagreed with his reporter's assessment, and granted the affair a place on the front page, albeit below the fold. The Imperial Star had done the same thing... so this wasn't just going to go away if she ignored it... swearing silently, Julia reached across to the terminal.
"Computer, compose and display..." she began dictating a memo to Valdir, recommending that the UIK upscale its declaration of neutrality to include any conflicts developing out of the original coup in Dyelli Beybi.

Of course they could render limited humanitarian aid to civilians, as they had done in the Klatchian invasion of Neo-Tyr, but opinions had shifted in recent years; if no-one asked for it, no aid would be given.

As the memo disappeared into the ether, Julia reflected on the situation. It was regrettable that things had come to such a pass, that war was now being pursued before diplomatic options had been exhausted, but that was the way things were. Perhaps if Timaru and Moskau survived this initial assault, and if the Civil Service deemed it worth the effort, further engagement could be pursued. But those were pretty big "if"'s.

(Er...D.B. the seven nearest runways around Moskau are now unusable airplanes on tarmacs have about twenty to thirty minutes before destruction)
Moskau

The packages were huge actually, at about 6 meters long and 3 meters wide they had buried themselves into the soft ground near the airport. A few minutes after landing the front panel of the packages went flying out and the upper part of the package raised itself on four robust legs. As it did so, an 88mm cannon popped out of the front. Out of the top popped a small turret that seemed to glow red.

The rifle teams were meet with a barage of 12.5mm machine gun fire as the Hannibals stepped forward. The case shot was rather worthless, it just bounced off the surface. The HESH rounds were doing damage, unfoturnatly the Var had long begun coating the inside of the shells of their vehicles with an thin elastomer. Which prevented the internal spalling HESH rounds were designed to cause.

The Hannibals forced on destroying their targets, the airport facilities. Primary targets were the fuel tanks or fuel pumps. If the buggers appeared to be underground well, they would be telling the grav-cruisers and go to destroying aircraft and hangers next. And shooting down any humans who decided to shoot back at them.

Timeru
The Dyellian artillery quickly discovered how badly they were out-legged by their Var counterparts. As the artillery peices moved, it was detected by the overhead strike fighter's sensors and relayed to the central battle computer. The central battle computer would throw the data to the respective gun computer and let it calcuate a new elevation, power, and skew to the gun. A second later the gun halo tank updated a new targeting sequence and the gun captain acknowledged the targeting change. A moment later the gun spat out another round on the new targeting location.

With the strike fighter's sensor suits now acting as spotters for the gun crews, both the acurracy and rate of fire of the Var shipboard guns was increasing dramatically. As the Dyellian artillery crews found out litterally being chased back into the city by the primary guns of the bar cruisers. Who didn't even stop as the guns went to hide within the city, not until the offending Dyellian artillery was useless.


The Dyellian AA crews must have been estatic firing at the low flying ground attack aircraft went strait for the Lancias. Unfortunatly, the ground attack fighters proved to be significantly tougher than most terran aircraft. After driving off the ten attacks, the Lancia's still had to undergo a signficant amount of 40mm fire.

As the ten wounded attack aircraft peeled off, their underbelly armor significanlty weakend by their lone attacks, the Var changed tactics suddenly . With no other targets, the ten inch guns of the M'tec class cruisers began to go after the G9's and Lancia's. The other, less damaged, ground attack craft broke of their attacks and regrouped into wings of four. They then returned to attack each group of AA, supported by the naval guns.

Of course the Var really didn't need 70 fighters above Timeru to act as spotters for the artillery. In fact they were being joined by smaller drones that had been released by the carriers. Some of the strike fighters began to act as dive bombers, suddenly pitching down at an AA unit in a particularly cozy spot and opening fire with it's 2cm energy bolt guns.

Designed to do damage to armored grav-ships, the torroids of molten metal and plasma were likely to do significant damage to an unarmored AA vehicle, or even a standard terran armored vehicle.

******
Ten more grav ships left the Enclave coast line with several dozen more air fighters in tow. The Var had decided to cause the Dyellian airforce more problems.

Actually the Saab 2000 had moved up into the cloud cover as the MIG's had started to approach. Their reply was two fold...

Dellyian aircraft, this is a diplomatic mission and we are not landing on an airstrip under attack...

Then the Alconians played one of their new toys mixed with old ones. They were five rather odd looking mini-cruise missles, but rather than a warhead, they had a powerful multi-frequency radar transmitter. When hit by enemy radar, they gave off the signiture of a Saab 2000.

The Saab fired off two canisters of 'glitter', radar reflective material designed to throw off air to air missles. It provided time, showing up as a large disperse ball of fuzz for a moment, and then began to head down towards the ground revealing five radar returns for a Saab 2000 all with identical IFF codes. All of the 'Saabs' were on divergent paths and actually new paths.

The sixth Saab was using some 'stolen' radar blanking technology as it speed towards the border just above the cloud cover now. Its IFF off for the moment.

Sir, I think we will make the border, but not much father with the rate these afterburners are burning through the fuel...

Wittelback didn't say anything...he was going to have to do a high altitude jump in to Karmanyanka if he was lucky.

*****
The study was a small space with a small half-moon fireplace burning logs. There was a man in a dark suit and red tie poking at the fire. A younger man in a black jumpsuit with prussian collar was sitting on a sofa. The older man turned and gave a smile to Davies.
"Ah yes Miss Davies...so glad of you to join us...I am Senior Marshal Phillips..."
Phillips held out his hand, with slightly graying temples and blue eyes with a white mustache and beard seemed to be a young version of father christmas.
"And this is Zeelord Tre'ckmar of House Ubasta...er...no..."
The redhead who had been reclining on the couch stood up and held out his hand. "Just call me Eddie...my real name is unpronouncable by most outsiders."

Der Angst

Major Uyut and his men wrapped up their parachutes quickly and with a minimum of noise. He looked about and counted off his men in his head as they gathered together cautiously. They were not in enemy territory per say, but with the attack on the Vrakian convoy further away, they had to be ready for anything. Luckily, no one sprained an ankle and it looked as though the equipment in the crate was all intact.

He cast a glance at Jack and Akito. So, these were the specialists that Vrak called in to deal with the psykers. He met them only briefly before they boarded the transport and didn’t exchange much as far as pleasantries except for details regarding the mission. He was curious about them but remained professionally quiet.

He shook his head. A slight headache he had on the plane but it seems to have gone away. He pulled out his GPS indicator and took a reading and hostile threat assessment. He would be able to know, as far as the information being fed from SATCON, the long-ranged A-50s, and the UAVs what lurked around the corner. Of course he was mindful that recon is never 100%. As well, he wasn’t sure what precautions the orcs were taking but if they kept to the woods they would be harder to pick up. Still, he seemed satisfied and signaled to Akito and Jack.

“That way,” he said, pointing with his hand, “and at least a days march. This is rough terrain and not much in the way of roads. Maybe we can get lucky and commandeer a truck full of orcs.”

He said the last one only half-jokingly. It still bothered him that orcs had modern weapons. They would have to conserve their ammunition and, hopefully, link up with the convoy later on.

====

Dyelli Beybi

The Vrakian pilots looked on with relish at the approaching Moskavite fighters and increased to attack speed. Each enemy fighter would have to deal with two SU-37s armed with their maximum (14) compliment of air to air missiles. The remaining fighters would be held in reserve to engage any further aircraft.

The bombers, carrying a full load of Kh-101 cruise missiles let loose a volley of two each against any detected nearby ground support while the majority concentrated on the truck factory.

====

A large wave of transports along with a minimum escort left the former New Shiron territory towards Karmanyaka. Although that state did not respond yet, it would take a little while before the first Vrakian walked down the gangway.

The secretive Cyber Warfare Division of the VIS discreetly contacted their New Shironese equivalent and outlined a plan to conduct warfare against Scandavian States and possibly The Drakonian Imperium and Glorious Humanity, should it come to it.

More ominously, 36 submarines including 6 boomers were released from their pens and slid gracefully into the North Sea.

As much as the Lords of War systems may have been fantastic, it was still dificult to track a cannon being towed through the streets of Timaru. Three more were either hit or disabled by their crews. The Moskavites were changing tactics as well. Abruptly all fire coming out of the city ceased. It was possible they had taken out all the AA, but unlikely. The plan had changed. It was now to sit out the bombardment in their bunkers and tunnels.

----------

Rather interestingly the Var had managed to land their Hannibals in Moskau on a civilian airfield. Most military airfields were up North on the perma-frost or around the border region, particularly the border with Karmanyaka (Moskau was miles away from the border, and while it was the Capital, it didn't have a military airbase). As such there weren't any military planes to destroy, although their were plenty of Anatovs belonging to 'Dyelliflot', Dyelli Beybi's national carrier.

The case gunners had one last trick up their sleeves, it was to turn off the fuses on the case shot, meaning they were effectively firing a huge lump of metal at their targets. Solid case shot could rip a hole through an armoured soldier with ease, "Aim for the legs!" someone yelled.

Aware that their AT gunners weren't quite doing their job, a Company of tanks was dispatched to the area. They were old Dyellian 'Mark 5' tanks, designated T-5 by the Moskauans, fast, heavily armoured and sporting a 120mm cannon and the latest in targetting and guidance equipment; It was a probably the best tank the Dyellians had ever manufactured, but had been deemed too 'difficult to build' by the Dyellians who had moved onto the 'Carro Armato', which didn't use Chobham armour.

----------

Brezhnev shrugged, "A year, perhaps longer." he didn't seem particularly concerned, "We will not move into Orc lands. This is the middle of winter and their will not be enough shelter and our people will freeze to death... besides, the Orcs don't have enough weapons to hold against a Var assault... No, we will hold the line, if not at Timaru, we will hold in the Mountains east of their. Every step of the way until they reach Kiev favours the defenders. That is 450 kilometres of Mountain, river valleys and dense forrests. It is only after that that the country opens up into arable land that they will find easy to cross. We have millions of men and women ready to fight and die for their Motherland. It will be hard going for the Var."

(Er..D.B. a map of Timeru and Moskau would be good, because I thought it was primarily a large river valley...or that is what you originally stated when you settled the place...)

The Bridge over the Black River Gorge
(I'm playing it as an alconian built bridge)

It was a steel arch bridge, only a few feet shorter than its more famous relative the New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia, and unlike that bridge, this one was double decked. The lower deck carried two 36 inch rail lines from one side of the river to the other. Actually the engineers had built the passing siding on the bridge because of the difficulty of building it into the steep slopes up to the mine.

The upper level was a road bridge, which connected several pillboxes on the west to a fort and road on the east side of the river. North of here the road became nothing more than a pair of dirt track in the woods, south it was actually paved with gravel.

Over the fort flew the flag of the Alconian 3rd Expedition Group. Which ment that this poor group of souls were actually semi-reedemed criminals. It also ment that they were mercenaries, and could be hired for the right price.

For a moment, Jack (Who had landed in a somewhat unusual way, and left a smalluish 'crater' of sorts in the ground, what with weighting about twice as much as a baseline human with his measurements) and Akito seemed to be mildly... Bewildered. Hardly surprising - Where they came from, 'Wilderness' wasn't exactly a common occurance.

Still, after this moment of bewilderment, things went fairly smoothly - smaller machines-drones spread out (Though only a little, over, say, a ten-metre radius) and, unknown (Though noticeable) to the soldiers, the nearby fauna was taken over - insects, birds, rodents, once identified by way of the electric impulses their brains and nervous systems worked with, were manipulated and essentially turned into reconnaissance tools, to be interrogated every now and then, programmed to follow the smallish group of soldiers and mildly insane individuals, to operate as remote cameras in a moving circle perhaps a kilometre in radius.

Of course, they wouldn't be able to send their discoveries back to the two individuals now controlling them, meaning that they would have to be 'interrogated' every now and then, which of course meant 'lag' when it came to information transfer - So the system wasn't perfect.

Still, it was useful enough, and Akito doubted that the orcs were equipped to track her and Jack's emissions, anyway. Or to engage in countermeasures, come to think of it.

“That way,” he said, pointing with his hand, “and at least a days march. This is rough terrain and not much in the way of roads. Maybe we can get lucky and commandeer a truck full of orcs.”

Akito nodded. "Good enough - Though I suppose that searching for a proper transportation method would be vastly preferable - But we'll see. How native are the local orcs, anyway? Not sure what kind of surprise we may have waiting for us.

"Oh, and we should be careful - Jack will show up on infrared 's if he's a campfire. Well, almost. We'll do some reconnaissance through assorted means, of course, so don't be surprised if some orcs are suddenly shooting each other before they're even seeing us, but we'll keep this kind of activity on a low level, seeing as it's a little... Observable, and we're of course interested in a modicum of secrecy."

She grinned a little. A curious man... She didn't exactly scan the major, still, mere body language was telling her enough... Of course, she was enough of a diva to prefer waiting until actual questions were asked. "Well then - Lets go."

And that they did. A day's march - Akito would have more than enough time to work through some files regarding the Klatch's fauna. Given its legendary lethalness, she supposed that she could engage in some amusing mischief while they were on their way.

After all, she wasn't exactly limited to taking over rodents.

Der Angst
The secretive Cyber Warfare Division of the VIS discreetly contacted their New Shironese equivalent and outlined a plan to conduct warfare against Scandavian States and possibly The Drakonian Imperium and Glorious Humanity, should it come to it. .

At Gordon Bay, the 1107th Signals Battalion/857th Signals Support Group, otherwise known as Lord Stirlings Own, prepared for cyper battle. Warrant officers, who generally drove the more staid officers and NCOs in the Royal Guard to intense irritation by their sloppy dress and sloppier military courtesy where tolerated because of one thing.

As Karmanyaka and some of the other Klatch nations could attest, Lord Stirlings Own were really good at creating havoc using nothing but their creatively destructive imaginations and world class computer software and skills.

They looked forward to their next playground.

Meanwhile, the Institute of Esoteric Knowledge, Port Gordon Campus, the cover for New Shiron's very small but very ancient PSI Corps, prepared for battle of its own. It was known to them that one of the possible enemies had a dangerous capability.

An order was quickly sent to New Shiron for a large production run of Psionic Helmets.

Psionic Shield Helmet
Battery powered helmet creating a weak electrical field at human brain wave frequencies. Psionically talented individuals perceive this as static, which prevents undesirable telepathic influences or psionic assaults. The helmet gives little physical protection but it gives the wearer an automatic psionic strength (for purposes of defense against psionic assault only). Individuals possessing life detection cannot detect shielded individuals nor can they receive telempathic or telepathic suggestions. They cannot be probed nor have their thoughts read.

The electronics of a psionic shield are relatively simple but one can break down or be sabotaged. A small meter on the unit allows testing of the helmet’s effectiveness. A person with Electronics-3+ can disable the unit in such a way that the meter will not show its inoperability. (ooc: From the role playing game Traveller)

The few available locally were immediately shipped to Port Olympus for the senior staff at the Residence, or handed out to senior or critical staff at Gordon Bay.

(OOC: I can send someone a map of T&M, I just need to know, is there anyone who can host it?)

(OOC: By the way, I can't remember saying it was a giant river Valley, are you sure you aren't confusing it with the description of 'Dyelli Beybi' aka the 'Djel River Valley'?)

"It's quite simple." Palmer explained, "We were fighting for the United Republics, against the 'Greater Empire' and took the vessel in a boarding action. Soult may regard it as stolen, but it was a valid wartime action."

----------

Collins gave a polite smile, "Ah thank you."

It was cold, but Adelle Collins was from further North in the Dyellian 'heartland' than was Davies, who was from Cyro. The nights up North plunged to around zero, so she wasn't quite as unused to it as the Commisaar would have been. Nevertheless she did look cold, and would be grateful to be shown inside.

----------

"Ah pleased to meet you." Davies shook the Senior Marshall, then the Zeelord's hands, one by one. She looked more than a little nervous, but that was nothing unusual with her, she seemed to automatically assume everyone was planning to do something unpleasant to her.

"So... did they give you the information they got from me with that funny drug?" she still wasn't exactly certain what they'd got from her when she'd been under the influence of whatever that stuff was.

OOC: I won't have Internet from my house until March 9th. Till then, it will be sporatic from university. Sorry folks. I'll keep up the best I can.

For hosting maps, I use photobucket.com

(well you can send it to me...or you could try attaching it to a post on the FKC forum if it's not too big...I hope you noticed the Var weapons thread there)

Marshal Phillips shook his head and chuckled. "Quite we have a full digital movie of your questioning by the Enclave authorities." The Marshal indicated Davies should take a seat.

"No, we are actually here about the rather...problematic situation with our new Dyellian Emperor and his future attainment trial. Specifically, how do you think the Klatchian Keys will view your testimony? Considering that the Checka have gained a rather poor reputation for trustworthiness. And the fact that you'll be linked to Felix's new KGB, which is in bed with the enemies of the Klatch? In truth, Felix has completely ignored the Foreign Ministries warnings about Himmler."

The Zeelord nodded, "Quite strange, unless of course Felix believes that Himmler will attempt to destroy the Klatch entirely...."

Phillips pondered this idea for a moment, "Quite...it would make sense.. Oh quite...I happen to be trying to match your testimony to Felix's actions in the past few hours. Rather disjointed until his lordship just suggested that...But returning to my orginal questions. How do you think the testimony of a young Checka agent will go over in the Klatchian Parliament?"

The Var systems were not all that fantastic really, just advanced. Which is why when the AA fire stopped, there was curiosity on the part of the Var. A few centuries earlier the Zeelord in command would have assumed that he had forced the terrans into submission. After all, terrans were inferior to the Var were they not.

That was until the Dagger war left a terran as Overlord of the Var. If anything that had taught the fairly young Zeelord something, terrans are tricky. So the sudden end of AA fire, and the lack of defenders was making the Zeelord ponder the situation.

<Either we have caught these squatters flat footed, or they desire urban combat.>
<Perhaps they feel it gives them an advantage?>
<Yes...but I wish to know what I will be fighting in those streets. Also, the Vrakians have apparently been engaged by the squatter's airforce. Send out a squadron to follow the squatters home...and locate other air instillations...now drop the drones>

Timeru
There was no bombardment at first, just white objects, the size of a large dog dropping down onto the city. They looked like abstract noses floating down the streets of Timeru. Their I.R., C02, radiation, sound, visual, and magnetic scanners were all attempting to see where the population of Timeru was, and how well armed.

Of course there were also several Hannibals now operating in Timeru; walking down the streets. Killing machines on a voyage of discovery.
Moskau

Solid shot versus the legs was proving just as useless. Smashing either into the armor guards or denting the rather robust legs themselves. The Hannibals were there to destroy fuel supplies and support infastructure. As well as get an idea of the resistance. The aircraft discovered what 88mm shells did at short range, the other facilites were hit with small range missles.

One Dyellian gunner apparently did hit a location where several of his predecesors had used their HESH rounds. It smashed through, causing damage to the Hannibal's internal engine. A moment later, the Hannibals hydrogen fuel, ammo, and remaining six pack of missles exploded, ripping the upper half of the body from the lower half.

All of the internals of the Hannibal melted when a plasma explosion followed, hot gas rolled out across the ground and litterally vaporized the grass and caused asphalt to bubble, and any nearby fuel tanks to suddenly burst open as their contents turned into vapor.

The surviving Hannibals turned their attention to the arriving tanks. Each had been carrying two six packs of rockets, which had armor peircing warheads. The Hannibals were obviously out gunned, but they attempted their best against the supperior firepower of the arriving tanks.

**********
The reply was terse, "At the moment there is no known offical of that government still recognizing its existance. Therefore your actions were in the name of a dead regime."

*****
Collins was immediatly escorted into the House. It was fairly warm, "Perhaps you would like to rest in the living room while I prepare you some tea?"

"Thank you." Davies seated herself opposite the Marshalls, then nervousness seemed to have vanished again, although it was replaced by a raised eyebrow upon mention of attaining Soult.

"Felix doesn't know." Davies replied simply, "The only people in Dyelli Beybi who knew the full picture of whats going on are myself and the two members of the crew who I chose to fill in on the situation. I did not fill Felix in because I had no idea where he was."

She smiled apologetically, "I take it he's overseas somewhere?" Having been onboard the Prefect had left Davies quite out of touch with what was going on in Klatch.

"As for your other question." she shook her head, "Even in the Republic, in the heyday of Cheka power my testimony against Soult would have been treated with suspicion."

"Look at me." she waved an arm to indicate herself, "Everyone knows Felix recruited me because of my looks, I'm not so naive as to believe he saw anything else in me to start with."

She paused, "I was a Chief Inspector though, so at least I'm not that low ranked... when dealing with the military, my rank was equivalent to what you'd probably call 'First Lieutenant'. In Dyelli Beybi that would count as a positive... although I'm guessing from what you've just said in the rest of Klatch that might well count as negative."

----------

Palmer grunted in annoyance with the machine, "On the night in Question, the Republic still existed. There was fighting in the streets of Cyro between Republican and Imperial forces. On the night in question, when seizing the vessel ,we were not acting in the name of a 'dead regime'."

----------

"Thank you." her treatment so far had been good, Collins decided, perhaps she had been too hard on the Commisaar. But then again, she still wasn't really certain what was going on. Communication didn't seem to be the Var strong point.

She wandered into the living room, wondering if there might already be someone there.

The Marshal shook his head, "He is in Moskau actually. But when we tried to inform him of the situation, we were rebuffed. I am afraid any futher attempts will be have to be made through his allies."

The Zeelord nodded and pondered Davies for a moment, as the Marshal continued, "The Checka have now destroyed two regimes, first the Tzarist and now the United Republics. Add in that the former head of the Checka is now in bed with both the Scandinavians and the Drakonian Imperium and you see what we have left." Phillips spread his hands open, "Soult will likely turn your affiliation with the group into discrediting you. And the Privy Council would prefer to be fighting one enemy, not two."

Phillips pondered for a moment, "Have you decided what you are going to do when this is all over? I mean Moskau won't trust you and neither will any future reigme in Cyro. I ask because we might be able to kill two birds with one stone."

"He might listen to me." Davies commented timidly in response to the comment on the former head of the Cheka, "I might not have been the highest ranking officer on the force, but I think he trusted me."

Dzerzhinsky had told her he trusted her and 'Chlarissa'. They would know if they'd asked the right questions during Davies' drug induced stupor.

"As for what I'd do after the Cheka..." she smiled and shrugged, "To be honest I never anticipated surviving this little trip. I have made no plans for the future."

She gave Phillips a quizical look, "I'm guessing you're going to ask me to do something. Just bear in mind I'm not going to betray my friends and associates without very good reason."

Timaru

Here and there a tangled gun or burned out vehicle marked where an unconfirmed kill had taken place. Everyone, civilians and military seemed to have taken shelter in the basements of buildings as well as in the subway system and an elaborate network of tunnels they had dug under the city to hide stuff in. The damaged buildings were the perfect spot for the Moskauns to spring ambushes, on the Hannibals and objects they presumed to be UAVs.

They did so quite readily, glad to be able to finally get to grips with an illusive enemy. 57mm short barreled AT guns seemed to be hidden everywhere, they could be fired from alleys or out of buildings to direct a HEAT shell at a Hannibal. Case gun crews were also around, directing fire at both the Hannibals and the UAVs. Unlike the troops in Moskau they hadn't worked out these guns were largely innefective against the walkers.

----------
Moskau

In true Dyellian style, the tanks were employed in a full frontal charge at the Hannibals with little or no thought put into strategy. This rather quickly turned into a general melee among the hangars and burning aircraft.

The T-5 was an impressively well armoured vehicle, although like many tanks, the turret ring provided a weak spot. One tank had it's turret torn clean off when a rocket hit it square on. A second exploded when it's rear armour was hit. A third took a hit on the glacis, leaving a huge crumpled dent, but still (mostly) functioning tank.

"He might listen to me." Davies commented timidly in response to the comment on the former head of the Cheka, "I might not have been the highest ranking officer on the force, but I think he trusted me."

Dzerzhinsky had told her he trusted her and 'Chlarissa'. They would know if they'd asked the right questions during Davies' drug induced stupor.

"As for what I'd do after the Cheka..." she smiled and shrugged, "To be honest I never anticipated surviving this little trip. I have made no plans for the future."

She gave Phillips a quizical look, "I'm guessing you're going to ask me to do something. Just bear in mind I'm not going to betray my friends and associates without very good reason."

The Marshal raised his eyebrow, "Betray? As far as their concerned you betrayed them the moment you ordered the Perfect into Var waters. No, you acted on behalf of the Dyellian people, not any given set of political masters. I doubt any future Dyellian or Moskauvite government will trust you."

He paused, "Of course as a Klatchian Marshal, you wouldn't have to betray them unless they betrayed their fellow Dyellians."

"They may think I have betrayed them, but I did it for them, for all of them, from Soult to the man who cleans out the public toilets in Agua Sucia." Davies retorted, "They may think me a traitor, but that doesn't mean I have to be one. Their views on me will not make me compromise my morals."

"Are you offering me a job?" she smiled, looking quite pleased, although her eyebrows shot up at the same time, revealing just how surprised she was, "Aren't you guys like assassins though? I'm not a killer."

Phillips nodded, "Quite, you did it for all of them, all of the Dyellians and Moskauvites, but let us be honest, most people who come into power expect loyalty to them, to power, not to the people of the United Republics."

He paused again, "As for a job with the Klatchian Marshals, are we assassins? Some of us, yes....but really we are far more than that. We are administrators of Federal Territory, and territorial law. We are investigators of crimes within those areas, Port Olympus, and we also keep our eye on security matters across the Klatch."

Phillips shifted slightly, "The Klatchian Marshals were indeed founded from the ruins of the Assasins Guild of Port Olympus. However, the Guild had been training its new members as men and women who could show leadership, cunning, and deal with all sorts of problems. This training is what prevented the Landgravine from wipping us all out after we tried to kill her the first time."

The Zeelord chuckled, "Didn't stop some of you from trying again."

Phillips nodded, "Obviously the sudden revolt within our ranks has caused serious problems in manpower. It has also made us look for expanding our canidate pool beyond Port Olympus. The fact that Marshals from L.O.W. have demonstrated their ingenuity and loyalty has made this push even greater. A young, attractive Dyellian Marshal might help us recruit other Dyellians into our ranks. Hopefully without them being Checka plants, of course. There are two Checka agents at the moment who have burned all their bridges as they say, and you are one of them Miss Davies."

Phillips paused, "Obviously with your background, you'd likely wind up in an administrative tract. Keeping an eye on some of our far flung territories, making sure criminals attempting to hide out there are captured. Nothing which would bring you into conflict with any other Dyellian."

"I know what Governments expect." Davies replied.

She nodded along to the rest of the explanation of the Marshals and what she might end up doing, at the end she laughed, "You'd really want Dyellian Marshalls? What with our infamous rashness and reputation for double dealing?"

"Another agent has cut ties with the Cheka? Interesting. I guess mine was slightly accidental. I had never really considered the consequences of my actions for me if I had the good fortune of surviving my meeting with the Var." she gave a wry smile, "Never trust the Cheka, even if you're in it."

She paused, considering, then shrugged, "Well I don't think I have a great deal of other options at this point, and it doesn't sound too far off what I was doing anyway. I'll do it. Is there some kind of contract I have to sign?"

The Zeelord chuckled again, "How is that any diffrent from the Olympian Marshals?"

Phillips raised an eyebrow at that comment, "Yes, when you've pleged Alliegence to the Federation, along with the other new recruits. You'll sign a contractural document. However, I should point out that we will be 'back-dating' your entrance date to the morning after you and that Allenean scum well..." He referenced the rather Libertine meeting with the Allenean. "...anyway. That way all the information you'll provide at the trial is from Junior Marshal Davies and not a Checka operative."

The Marshal paused for a moment, "Do you think Felix would listen to a video recording from you? Transporting you into Moskau at the moment would be rather touchy. I am assuming the checka had some means of demonstrating that the information is authentic, a series of code words perhaps?"

Davies' eyebrows shot up, "Oh you know about that? That's one person I wouldn't mind hurting." she spoke with an element of distaste, "I'm a Roman Catholic, that isn't something I do when I have all my faculties."

She fell silent for a moment, despite all evidence to the contrary, Davies was fairly religious, "OK. I'm not going to complain about back pay. I suppose I'll be pumped through some training programme. It can't be any worse than the Cheka one... well actually no I don't have any code words, they're set at the start of an opperation and change each time a new one is started. I could use the old ones from the Himmler investigation, they might work."

Davies' eyebrows shot up, "Oh you know about that? That's one person I wouldn't mind hurting." she spoke with an element of distaste, "I'm a Roman Catholic, that isn't something I do when I have all my faculties."

She fell silent for a moment, despite all evidence to the contrary, Davies was fairly religious, "OK. I'm not going to complain about back pay. I suppose I'll be pumped through some training programme. It can't be any worse than the Cheka one... well actually no I don't have any code words, they're set at the start of an opperation and change each time a new one is started. I could use the old ones from the Himmler investigation, they might work."

The Marshal nodded, "Well, we can try...if Felix can be persuaded then perhaps we can salvage the situation. The only question becomes is there someone in the crew who the KGB will especially trust? That is to deliever the message to Felix."

There is a certain something involved in travelling large distances by foot. This can be exhaustion - But these were enhanciles and professional soldiers, so this didn't really play much of a role - and this can be boredom.

Lots of boredom. Granted, the Klatch's fauna and flora were of considerable interest (From afar, anyway. Getting too close wasn't recommended), but other than that, well...

They marched, only the occasional dialogue breaking the silence, and even then, only for a short time.

The occasional odd look by the Vrakians - They were meant to observe the two not-quite-trustable Angstians in their midth, though their professionalism was sufficient to avoid anything beyond this level of mild curiosity - and rarely, if ever, did they encounter locals, and even then only from afar.

Really, it was boring. On the other hand, it was also better than dying in a little shooting (Though at least Jack wouldn't have minded a little action), so there wasn't anything they could really complain about.

Halfway done. They were creeping closer to their destination.

Time to think a little about strategies while they were underway.

"I don't know." Davies replied simply, "I take it the KGB is the Moskauan Cheka from the way you're talking?"

"If you can provide me with any names or details of who you know is with him I might be able to tell you. By the way, do you mind if I ask who the other Cheka agents to cut off ties with the organisation is?" there was really only one other agent Felix trusted and that was his 2iC in Moskau, Chlarissa Dashwood, but she would be just as difficult to get through to. There was a way though, although Davies didn't realise it yet. As soon as other pieces of the jigsaw came together, she would have the answer.

The Marshal nodded, "Altwood was last known to be with the Vaadians."

"Altwood?" Davies shrugged, then frowned, "Alwood? Zara Alwood? If we're talking about her, I know who you mean. She really fell in with the wrong crowd when there was that whole Collins piracy buisness. Her 'liason' with that Vaadian General didn't exactly make her popular with the hierachy either."

The Naval Guard were finally ready to pull out, ahead of schedule seventy hours instead of seventy two. The last of the Naval Guard Marines were aboard their Revenge Battleships and the three Tactical Groups readied to get underway, after one final act.

The Naval Guard had gathered all of the Foreign Guard vehicles just south of the base and the Revenge Battleships , all six of them, opened up, raining 3 1/2 ton 24" shells down on the group of tanks, transports and artillery, leaving nothing but craters, the base itself remained untouched. After about ten minutes of bombardment, the Tactical Groups began to speed away at a respectable 35 kts.

The flow of information that had been coming from Retaliatory Guard satellites and the mysterious Mr. Johnson to the Vrakian forces, also stopped completely, as per the Ministry of Defence's new policy (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=10585793&postcount=25) regarding their neighbors.

The Free Republic had enough of being the Federation's scapegoat for the Klatch's problem and now their Klatchian neighbors were getting exactly what they wanted: A Free Republic with no compunction to get involved with it's neighbors. Poorly repaid for military aid to the Klatch and the good deeds of saving JDF lives the Ministry of Defence was finally giving up and cutting it's mounting losses in the Klatch.

Offical Press Release, Formal International Notice
Subject: Interference Warrents in Dyelli Beybi

Item One:
The Republic of Ilek-Vaad has informed the world, and the Federated Klatchian Coast that it has withdrawn from Dyelli Beybi and all conflict within that nation.

Item Two:
The Interference Warrent issued to the Imperium of Scandinavian States was upon balancing power with the Klatchian Guard and the Republic of Ilek-Vaad.
Futher, The Imperium of Scandinavian States, nor represenatives of the Soult Government, made any call for continued particpation

Therefore, the Privy Council of the Federated Klatchian Coast Hearby Revokes ALL Interference Warrents in the State of Dyelli Beybi and futhermore states than any attempt to land foreign troops upon Klatchian soil will be met with extreme prejudice.

In addition, the Privy Council would ask that a cease fire within the Dyellian Conflict be announced for the next week until all foreign forces have departed the region. During this Cease Fire the Privy Council, upon the urging of our Chariman, would like to call for a meeting of all Dyellian Factions to occur within Port Olympus to attempt a negotiated settlement.

******
The House in L.O.W.
Well we are not sure who is with Felix in Moskau at the moment. Although our computers are attempting to identify some of those we have caught on film. Anyone inparticular your looking for? And perhaps if you give us a description we might be able to say if they are likely there or not.

*****

Attn: G.H., Der Angst
There were creatures in the northern orc lands that were not common anywhere else in the Klatch. And while most humans considered them dumb animals, they were decidely not.

Klatchian Tigers still roamed these parts, their favorite food was Orc, much like the Var. The largest tiger in the known world, it was considered a highly deadly preditor. However, what most people knew about the creatures was slightly less than what was really going on.

Although the tigers couldn't speak, their minds were like lighthouses in a cloudy night. And once more, they were not 'silent' in their minds; they communicated between each other. The did not talk with words like a human would but sights sounds and the images of odd glyphs.

Timeru
The drones were rather hard to kill. First, because they could dodge around the place like a bubble suffering severe browinig motion. Second they were mostly just large flying peices of ceramic armor with a few well placed sensors.

The typical ambush of a drone wound up with the location of the 57mm cannon suddenly comming under energybolt fire from a fighter above, or the 88mm gun of a Hannibal. However, the gun crews killed several, getting to watch them explode, their internal fittings vanishing in a glow of blue heated gas as the body smacked into the ground.

Actually the Var typically buried their major operations centers underground or underwater. The Moskauvites doing this was a futher sign that they were actually proving to be a worthy enemy, rather more then their more mongral dog southern cousins were believed to be.

The problem was that the reason the Crawfnords now ruled the Var was they had developed ways of assailing those buried mountain fortresses of their enemies. Of course those systems were in the control of House Crawfnord rather than some minor houses.

But a deal had been struck earlier, since Dyellians were known to dig rather grand underground bunkers. The five houses had agreed to hand over Timeru to House Crawfnord for allowing to use House Crawfnords seige companies. Those companies were crossing Lake Olympus and would soon be at Timeru. The city had perhaps eight hours left before their leaders would be faced with a rather stark choice.

Moskau

The surviving Hannibals were not all that smart. Most continued to fire at the enemy as the enemy fired at them. A sort of blunt attack which led to the destruction of another three Hannibals in the rather graphic manner their predicesors had gone, however, just before dying they actually made a burst of speed towards the enemy tanks. A Kamikaze attempt to kill a few more enemy tanks.

The fight would have continued as such, but somewhere near Timeru, a more intelligent mind notice the tank turret popping off and changed targeting parameters. The surviving Hannibals all emptied their remaining magazines squarly at the rather weak turret rings before turning and running towards the city. The Hannibals were no longer effective fighting machines, they were now suicidal armored plasma bombs heading off for two targets.

The First two were headed strait for the water treatment plant. ( Water treatment, not waste treatment). The other two were headed for the headquarters of the KGB.

Squadron C
Fifteen fighters broke off from their patrol over Timeru and headed towards the Vrakian/Moskauvite conflict to the north. It would seem that the Var had decided to hunt down the Dyellian Fighters if they wouldn't come to them.

"Honestly..." Davies replied, "I don't know. He said he trusted me and Dashwood during the meeting we had over what to do about Himmler, he didn't mention anyone else though. He most certainly does not trust Zara Alwood if you were thinking of using her. She first did leg work for Collins during the piracy debacle and later ended up in bed with that Vaadian."

Arn-Maciska

Julia's lunch with the First Minister's nephew was doomed to constant interruption it seemed.
This time the aide held up the report for her to read, her own fingers rather sticky as she devoured a plate of spring rolls.
"...negotiated settlement... OK, thanks," she said indistinctly.
"Anything else Sera?"
"Get out."
The aide departed, while Alexius looked up, curiosity written all over his features.
"Ilekd-Vaad pulled out of DB, the Klatchian Privy Council has revoked those "interference warrants", and they now want a negotiated settlement to the Dyellian conflict."
Alexius sniggered, then replied "They do like doing things the hard way, don't they?"
"Yep. Fools. Pass the plum sauce."

Timaru

The case gunners leaned quickly that their guns were innefective, and stopped, presumable retreating back into the tunnels from whence they had come. They were replaced by troops with AT rockets, who now were primarily targetting the hannibals which they assumed were the Var version of a tank. There were probably 20 or 30 dead as well as half a dozen of their guns destroyed, not that the guns were a huge loss, they were easily replaced. Wounded were dragged back into the tunnels, presumably some kind of hospital existed underground.

What would be becoming clear was that there wasn't a single tank in the city, it was a pure Infantry deployment.


Moskau

By now the Moskauans were reacting to the attack, pouring more and more resources at the Hannibals. Another tank had lost its turret in a more or less identical manner to the first, while a second had had the ring jammed and been forced to withdraw.

There was no way they were about to let a Hannibal anywhere near the centre of town, not to mention KGB headquarters, and a few blocks in, it would encounter a police roadblock, backed up by military carrying anti-tank rockets of varying sorts, mostly variants of the Kornet E.

The other one heading for the water treatment plant had an easier run, the plant was out of town, across the pristine white, slowly undulating plain, a long frozen river snaking its way North towards the city, to the vehicle's left. Although long before it reached its destination, the chop-chop sound of helicopters would begin to echo across the frozen landscape. Whether or not it reached the plant, there was a secondary target, six thick steel water pipes ran parallel to the river, supplying well over half the city's water.

International Press Release: From the Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:


Despite the Press release of the government of the Federated Klatchian Coast, the Free Republic has not informed the Federation of any plans of it's armed forces and their activities. The Free Republic does not recognize the Federation or it's authorities as having legal standing as a government or legal standing to enforce it's laws and policies in any region or state.

The Free Republic does not recognize the 'Warrants of Inteference' or their retractions. The Free Republic reserves the right to act as it sees fit to safe guard it's People and it's influence within the Klatchian Coast.

Furthermore the Free Republic does not recognize any alleged government, or governing party in any of the territories of the former Socialist Republic of Dyelli Beybi. The Free Republic is not bound by any convention or treaty with any entity in the Klatchian Coast.

Alan Cherkess
Assistant to the Minister of Foreign Affairs,
Ilek-Vaad


OOC: i.e. Dyelli Beybi is all yours SS!

The party continued relatively unbothered - The Klatchian fauna and flora, though kind of legendary for its lethalness, didn't seem to bother the two Angstians, and the Vrakians were most likely used to it, anyway.

Practically speaking, this was the difference between a normal Angstian - Who, coming from a hyperurbanised u- or dystopia, would've felt rather uncomfortable in the rural, or more to the point, wild environment - and Jack/ Akito, who, for all practical intends and purposes, were rather close to being clinically insane, and who enjoyed this. Muchly.

Sounds in the woods, growling noises, cracking benches, high-pitched screams of the prey and its predator (As far as the Klatch was concerned, it was uncertain which of the two groups humans belonged to) - Music to the ears of the insane, who reached out, radiating their profoundly insane will and desires into their neighborhood, touching the animalistic they felt so close to.

The quick struggle of a lonely orc, breathing hard, and then ceasing to do so, while the tigers' jaws held it tightly...

Akito breathed harder, faster as well, feeling this tingling as she witnessed the event, from afar, through the remotes she'd sent out, and her own mind extending, electric impulses usually confined to a baseline-human's brain jumping from molecule to molecule...

A wonderful land.

And about then, she encountered something odd - Not unlike a psionic magpie (If on an entirely different basis, but the results were comparable), but still...

Whoops.

She listened, carefully. Eavesdropping on the tigers' 'Chatting' - Of course, she didn't exactly understand it (Well, the images and sounds worked... The glyphs, not so much), apparently discussing prey, hunting, sex... Well, she thought this were the topics at hand, anyway.

A quick moment spent on thinking this over. Considering armament and her present boredom, versus the risk of being considered prey...

Ah, whatever. They're cute. About as tall as me, too...

Eavesdropping is fun. Now, however, she did the mental equivalent of knocking on a door.

Loudly.