NationStates Jolt Archive

Four years had gone by since the offshore platforms were established in the Black Sea. But now their time had come to an end.

Prince William had wanted to establish permanent platforms off the coast of the Crimean Peninsula. Artificial islands, which would be used as a line of defense used to protect the against enemy warships and planes.

But things had not gone smoothly. The platforms were criticized as unnecessary, their functions obsolete or redundant. After all why were platforms needed to scan the skies when there were already patrols taking place around the clock? Why were they needed to monitor any potential submarine activity when submarine couldn't even enter the Black Sea since Wilhelmsborough submarines were constantly monitoring the Bosphorus Strait?

And so, it was decided that the nine platforms, each located 30 miles of the coast of the Crimean Peninsula, would be shut down. All crew and personelle would be evacuated. Later, demolition crews would come by and destroy the artificial islands.

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

Location: Platform #5
30 Miles from Yalta

The crew of this station had once been at 20. But now, as it was being shut down, only a skeleton crew of 5 remained. At this very moment, they were delivering the last of the equipment to the destoyer that was docked alongside the platform.

Finally, it was time to go. After the last box had been lowered onto the destoyer, the crew was also lowered to the ship by crane.

There was only one man left. He went into the lower levels of the platform to the gangpank that had been lowered for him. As he looked around at the structure for one last time, he marveled at the structure around him. This platform was an incredible feat of construction. It was a shame that it would soon be destroyed. He would miss the place.

Hours Later...

It was night. The platform, though abandoned, had a light running in order to prevent ships from crashing into it.

From, the mainland, came a group of boats. There were four of them, and all civilian. They were also filled with people. People with assault rifles.

Their path was the abandoned Platform #5. They came up alongside the structure. Grappling hooks were fired, hooking onto the wall. The mysterious people climbed up the side of the platform. After several minutes of climbing. Two figures made it over the wall.

For a moment, they just stood there, gazing at the structure. As they stood there, more of their companions climbed over the ledge. They dropped their climbing gear to the ground and brandished their rifles.

Finally, one of the people spoke.

"James, this place is great! I can't believe they want to destroy it." said a man whose voice betrayed his enthusiasm and awe.

"Yes," replied James distantly. "It's ours now. Our own land. Where we will rule."

"Yep! Man I can't wait until ol' Prince William hears about this! He'll blow a gasket!"

"Dave, you'd best not underestimate him. He can be rather unpredicable at times. If this is going to work, we have to be absolutely serious."

"I know boss, but it's just so crazy! Who is going to take us seriously? We're starting a country on an artificial island for crissake!"

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

Official Message to the World

We are a group of artists and anarchists. We've taken control of the artificial island designated "Platform #5" by the Wilhelmsborough government. It was intended to be destroyed, but we have desided that it can be put to some good use. As of now, Platform #5 is independent of Wilhelmsborough's control. As of today, we, The Free Thinkers Guild, hereby establish The Free Republic of Discordia upon this artificial island with our Leader, James Pease as the President-For Life. We are absolutely serious about this and intend to succeed in this nation building endeavor.

Signed,
Amanda Barrows
Secretary of State

P.S. Please don't attack us.

OOC - Heh. Basing this off of Sealand (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sealand)?

OOC:

Yep, that's exactly right.

Unfortunately, nobody recognizes Sealand as independent. What about the NS world?

OOC: If we're not "Real-world" can we get involved?

OOC: yeah, sure go on ahead. Just stay MT, please.

(OOC: Sweet im MT/PMT, i'll just throw away some of my weapons and take out the old ones from storage)
IC:


To: Wilhelmsborough
From: Franberry

Can you please clear up what this Platformm #5 buissness is all about?

From The Commonwealth of Northford:

We hereby wish all parties involved to know we do not have a stance on this issue, we wish both parties can come to an arrangement, which will be satisfactory for all those involved.

We are willing to host a summit between both parties should this be required.

To: Wilhelmsborough
From: Franberry

Can you please clear up what this Platformm #5 buissness is all about?
-------------

Prince William's eyes went up in shock as he read the brief message from the nation of Franberry. How could they have known about the defense platforms? Who told the world about the them?

Nobody was supposed to know. They had been constructed quietly, and were supposed to be destroyed quietly as well. What the hell was going on?

All of a sudden, a messanger came into the office. "Your majesty! You have a letter! It's very important!

William held out his hand. "Give to me."

The messanger placed the letter in the Prince's hand, then bowed and left.

The Prince opened up the letter and began to read. His eyes widened at the words on the paper.

Suddenly, he threw down the paper in anger and reached for the phone which he quickly dialed.

"AUGUSTINE! GET IN HERE NOW!"

Reply: -

Animarnia Recognises The Free Republic of Discordia as a nation, although unusual in its construction due to international law we recognise this new 'micro state' and offer it status as a protectorate of Animarnia and offer technical assistance to help Discordia develop into a nation

Signed, Edward Benton, Secutary of state.

A Franberrian spy plane flew over the new state, taking photographs, high clound cover prevented this from being done with satelites. The plane did its task rapidly, and then left at a quick speed.

"Hmm... it seems someone has taken a Wilhelmsborough defense platform."

"Who?"

"A bunch of people who call themselves Discordia. They want to start a nation."

"Do they have weapons?"

"No, not apparently."

"Hostile?"

"Nope."

"Nazis?"

"Negatory."

"Political alignment?"

"They say they're anarchist, but they have a president."

"What the heck, leave 'em be. They aren't hurting anyone. Just put the island international waters if anyone objects. Give Discordia $500,000 USD, and compensate Williamsbourogh tenfold for the platform."

"Aye."

To: Discordia
From: Pythogria
Re: Your Nation
Text:

Pythogria wonders why you would establish a nation on an artificial island, but you aren't hurting anybody, so we've decided to give you $500,000 USD. If anyone gives you trouble, contact us. Also, perhaps you should move your island into international waters? We can help with that. To prevent Williamsburogh from getting angry, we'll compensate them tenfold. Good luck with your nation!


To: Williamsburogh
From: Pythogria
Re: Compensation
Text:

To peacefully resolve the situation on Platform #5, we have decided to ask you if we may move the island into international waters and compensate you tenfold for the platform. Yes, we do know about the island. We do have sattelites, you know.

Any complaints about RP noobs jumping aboard this thread?

Admiral of the Navy Vittorio Augustine stood before Prince William nervously.

"Admiral," Prince William spoke very carefully. "What is going on platform number 5?"

"Your Majesty, a group of college students, anarchists, and other prominent anti-establishment figures within our country have taken it upon themselves to establish an independent nation thirty miles south of our capital. They call themselves the Free Republic of Discordia, and they're led by a man named James Pease."

"James Pease...hold on.." the Prince thought for a moment. "Isn't he with the Free Thinkers Guild? That intellectual and philisophical organization?"

"He was the leader in that group too, sir. Typical extreme-leftist nutjob. He protested our wars against Machinist and OA Boy Scouts and is a major critic of your government, your Majesty. Big hit with the college crowd too I believe."

"Oh really now?" the Prince grinned. "Admiral, you've got a son in college don't you? Does he listen to people like this, or attend their gatherings?"

"I would certainly hope not, sir." Augustine replied.

The Prince laughed. "Well, this really isn't a problem now is it?" William grinned. "Just a bunch of crazy yahoos who think they can run a country. It's probably just some big joke, some artistic expression movement, or some crazy shit like that. Anyway Admiral, send a destroyer and a contigent of Marines and remove them from the platform."

Just then, another messanger burst through the door. "Your majesty! The country of Animarnia has just recognized the people on the platform as a legitimate state!"

"WHAT?!" roared Prince William. "This is unbelievable! "

Admiral Augustine spoke up. "Sir their recognition of Discordia as a sovereign nation could cause us some problems if we attack. They could retaliate against us for attacking what they view as a defenseless country."

The Prince slumped back into his seat. "You're right Augustine." he sighed. "Well, I suppose I had best respond to Franberry's question."

-------------------
To: Franberry
From: The Principality of Wilhelmsborough

Platform #5 is the 5th of nine artificial island platforms which were constructed five years ago to protect the peninsula from attacking ships. However, our air and ship patrol aircraft has rendered such platforms obsolete, so we decided to shut them down and destroy them.

This "Free Republic of Discordia" has taken over Platform #5, which is about 30 miles offshore from our capital city of Yalta.

To: Pythogria
From: Franberry

We suggest that you do not support the Platform #5 goverment. How would you like it if Wilhelmsborough suppourted rebel groups in your country? This merely a suggestion, and if our noble allies no do wish to act upon it, it will not be held against them

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

To: The Principality of Wilhelmsborough
From: Franberry

We hope that your country will deal with the situation accordingly, and if nessesary, we offer our help. We do not recognise the "Free Republic of Discordia" and we regard them as dissidents.

To: Franberry

From: Pythogria

Re: #5

Text:

Really, these people aren't hurting anyone, and we can just move the island out to sea if Williamsburough doesn't like them being near them. If someone set up shop on my old abandoned defense island, I really wouldn't care and I'd move it out to sea. It's happened before. Now, if they hurt ANYONE, I will send ships before you can blink. Really though, people can live wherever they want as long as it isn't in use by someone, in my opinion. This had been abandoned for years.

Again, if they are excessively rude or cause problems, we will attack them.

The president's office was a dull day as President Friedman sat with his feet on the desk smoking a cigar a good day. A good day that was about to turn very, very unusual as Edward Benton walked in with a folder in hard and handed it to the president. Friedman opened the file and read it with the cigar hanging loosely from his mouth as he did so.

"So, they have any defences?" he asked.

"No Sir, nothing to speak off", Benton replied.

"Ask them if they want us to help fortify there island with defence emplacements", he said simply; "oh and if they want any other equipment, medical aid for hospitals stuff like that, all the things a new nations needs"

"Yes Mr President"

With that done, the president returned to relaxing while Benton sent off another message to Discordia;

----------
To: Discordia
From: Animarnia Defence Department

We would like to offer you equipment to help defend your new island from would be invaders and offer you medical supplies, electrical generators, food, money and various other things you might need. If you draw up a list of supplies we can dispatch a cargo ship to deliver them to you

To: Pythogria

From: Franberry

Re: #5

Text:

Really, what if I sponsored some rebel groups within your country. The defense platform is within their national waters. An incursion into somebody's water would not be seen as exactly "peaceful". Again, if you do take action, as your ally, we will not oppose you, but we will discourage you from doing so. If any other nations try to help these rebels against the wishes of Wilhelmsborough, we will deal with them.

To: Franberry

From: Pythogria

Re: #5

Text:

Fine, fine, fine, we will no longer support the #5 government. But we still want this situation to be resolved peacefully. If they really want to be alone, we can give them some tiny island we discovered in 1569.

Four years had gone by since the offshore platforms were established in the Black Sea. But now their time had come to an end.

Prince William had wanted to establish permanent platforms off the coast of the Crimean Peninsula. Artificial islands, which would be used as a line of defense used to protect the against enemy warships and planes.

But things had not gone smoothly. The platforms were criticized as unnecessary, their functions obsolete or redundant. After all why were platforms needed to scan the skies when there were already patrols taking place around the clock? Why were they needed to monitor any potential submarine activity when submarine couldn't even enter the Black Sea since Wilhelmsborough submarines were constantly monitoring the Bosphorus Strait?

And so, it was decided that the nine platforms, each located 30 miles of the coast of the Crimean Peninsula, would be shut down. All crew and personelle would be evacuated. Later, demolition crews would come by and destroy the artificial islands.

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

Location: Platform #5
30 Miles from Yalta

The crew of this station had once been at 20. But now, as it was being shut down, only a skeleton crew of 5 remained. At this very moment, they were delivering the last of the equipment to the destoyer that was docked alongside the platform.

Finally, it was time to go. After the last box had been lowered onto the destoyer, the crew was also lowered to the ship by crane.

There was only one man left. He went into the lower levels of the platform to the gangpank that had been lowered for him. As he looked around at the structure for one last time, he marveled at the structure around him. This platform was an incredible feat of construction. It was a shame that it would soon be destroyed. He would miss the place.

Hours Later...

It was night. The platform, though abandoned, had a light running in order to prevent ships from crashing into it.

From, the mainland, came a group of boats. There were four of them, and all civilian. They were also filled with people. People with assault rifles.

Their path was the abandoned Platform #5. They came up alongside the structure. Grappling hooks were fired, hooking onto the wall. The mysterious people climbed up the side of the platform. After several minutes of climbing. Two figures made it over the wall.

For a moment, they just stood there, gazing at the structure. As they stood there, more of their companions climbed over the ledge. They dropped their climbing gear to the ground and brandished their rifles.

Finally, one of the people spoke.

"James, this place is great! I can't believe they want to destroy it." said a man whose voice betrayed his enthusiasm and awe.

"Yes," replied James distantly. "It's ours now. Our own land. Where we will rule."

"Yep! Man I can't wait until ol' Prince William hears about this! He'll blow a gasket!"

"Dave, you'd best not underestimate him. He can be rather unpredicable at times. If this is going to work, we have to be absolutely serious."

"I know boss, but it's just so crazy! Who is going to take us seriously? We're starting a country on an artificial island for crissake!"

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

Official Message to the World

We are a group of artists and anarchists. We've taken control of the artificial island designated "Platform #5" by the Wilhelmsborough government. It was intended to be destroyed, but we have desided that it can be put to some good use. As of now, Platform #5 is independent of Wilhelmsborough's control. As of today, we, The Free Thinkers Guild, hereby establish The Free Republic of Discordia upon this artificial island with our Leader, James Pease as the President-For Life. We are absolutely serious about this and intend to succeed in this nation building endeavor.

Signed,
Amanda Barrows
Secretary of State

P.S. Please don't attack us.

As the platform is run and owned by the Wilhelmsborough government, if the nation Wihelmsborough recognizes The Free Republic of Discordia, then so will the government of United Earthlings. In the meantime however, trade with Wihelmsborough will continue and the action of said group will be viewed as a terrorist act and any such act directed at any of the ships coming and going in Wihelmsborough waters will be meet with lethal force to protect the rights and properity of our citizens.

OOC: I'll ask again, this time a little more formally.

Is there any complaint if a nation that has had little experience in Nationstates RP participates in this thread?

OOC: I'll ask again, this time a little more formally.

Is there any complaint if a nation that has had little experience in Nationstates RP participates in this thread?

OOC: I think its just free for all..

[Moantha, I'm not the thread creator, but usually nations just go ahead and join, especially if the thread isn't "CLOSED."]

The Commonwealth deems this new nation on platform #5 a terrorist group. However, since the platform was scheduled for destruction, Zecro is willing to help with the attempts to move this island out into international waters where it wil be declared an independant country.

Platform #5 is nonetheless still owned by Wilhelmsborough, so it would be unlawful to tow out this island without the permission of the owner.

Does Wilhelmsborough accept to sell this island to the nation that wishes to buy it to tow it into international water? If so, name a price. If not, Zecro will not be involved on either side of the ensuing conflict.

OOC: I'll ask again, this time a little more formally.

Is there any complaint if a nation that has had little experience in Nationstates RP participates in this thread?

Go ahead and participate. It makes the game more fun.

Go ahead and participate. It makes the game more fun.
OOC: So can be blow the terrorists to hell and back?

OOC: Awesome.

IC:

Carl Maaschian was sitting at his desk looking through papers when a secretary came in with a folder labeled Discordia. Carl quickly flipped through it, a grin growing on his face as he did so.

"Artists and Anarchists?" He said to himself, the secretary already having left, "Excellent

To: whom it may concern in Wilhelmsborough's government
From: Mediator Maaschain, Head of Moanthan Foreign Affairs
Subject: Discordia
The government of Moantha watches with an interested eye the declaration
of the independence of Discordia. Seeing as how the matter of it's
independence seems yet to be unresolved, Moantha requests permission to
dispatch a delegation to Discordia in order to further determine the
circumstances leading up to and including the declaration.

To: Discordia
From:Mediator Maaschain, Head of Moanthan Foreign Affairs
Subject: Delegation
Pending a reply from the government of Wilhelmsborough Moantha wishes to
send a delegation in order to come to a greater understanding of the
reasoning and legalities behind you're declaration of independence.

Having finished sending the message, Carl called for his secretary. "I want you to tell George to start putting together a delegation. Rafuter, Schimdt, and Thomson if you can get him. And while you're at it, see if you can find me a book on Wilhelmsborough law."

"Yes sir." His secretary nodded and left.

Principality of Wilhelmsborough

Prince William read the letters from the foreign countries making offers and suggestions as what to do in the situation. Admittedly, the Prince, in the beginning, quite angry had become much more torn over what to do.

In his younger days before he became a Prince, William had a huge interest in micronational movements around the world. He felt that it was incredibly ballsy that ordinary groups of people would take land and declare it sovereign, independent nations. He admired nations like Sealand and the Hutt River Province Principality, not just for creating these states, but also managing to hold on to them for so long. It was the ultimate insult to recognized authority.

But now, William was the leader of his own country. He was the authority. And this "Free Republic of Discordia" presented a bit of a problem. What was one to do?

Was it really necessary to expend the time, money, and resources to stamp out this little upstart? And what would the people think? Just as in Britain in their situation with Sealand, if the Principality came down upon the Platform, people might believe that he was a malicious bully. It might be the ruin of his reputation.

It would seem that a direct attack was out.

The Prince paced and paced. What else could be done?

----------------------
Free Republic of Discordia

President James Pease sat in his office, which once served as the communication tower for Platform #5, and read the letters of support and advice. James was pleased. Pleased that he had managed to grab the attention of the world in such a short period of time.

But there was something he disliked however, and that was the offers of nations to tow the platform away from Wilhelmsborough territory. He did not like this idea. Although he and about 40 other people had come here intending on starting a country, they were not about to leave their native country forever.

The President grabbed a pencil and a pad of white-lined paper and began to write.

All all Concerned Parties

We thank every last one of you for your support in these first few uncertain days. We are just blown away over here at just how much interest has been generated.

We would like the world to know that although we are happy that you wish no harm upon us, we would rather not have the platform towed out to sea. We like our position here. Even though we are Discordians, we are also Wilhelmsboroughans, and we are not willing to leave out native land behind so soon. Besides, the lights of Yalta are beautiful at night.

We appreciate the aid which you are sparing. We would also like to say that we are not terrorists. We wish no harm upon the people of Wilhelmsborough or the government, or Prince William himself. This is just a group of people who believe that they can create a better, albeit smaller nation.

Thank you for your support,
President James Pease
Free Republic of Discordia

The 3 F-37's flew rapidly, mere meters over the ocean surface. THe outpost aperared on the horizon.
"Afterburners On!"
The planes sped up, and buzzed the platform several times. Then, they slowed down, so the logo of the Franberrian People's Airforce could be seen clearly, they flew over once more, rose into the clouds, and dissapeared.

Carl Maaschian looked down at the papers in front of him again. "By god, what do they think they're they're proving?" He asked the man in front of him.

The man who had provided the papers, though no name, replied "They're proving to Discordia that they can wipe them out whenever they please."

Carl snorted. "As if Discordia doesn't realize that. I've got a friend in NMBC*. Say the word and I can splash this all over the world's headlines. A huge, millitarily powerful nation, intimidating a group of what, fifty artists and anarchists? They'll eat it up."

"Not yet," replied the man, "We'll keep that on the table though. If Discordia is recognized by Wilhelmsborough, such an attack will be genocide, if nothing major happens, it will be an attack on Wilhelmsborough's citizens. What we have to worry about is if Prince William declares them terrorists. What you need to do is let Franberry know that we can and will let the world know exactly what's going on."

Carl looked at the papers, most of them sattelite photos of the flight over Discordia. When he looked up again, the man was gone.

To: Franberry
From: Mediator Maaschain, Head of Moanthan Foreign Affairs
Subject: Millitary flight over Discordia
Moantha is concerned over the recent millitary flight over Discordia. If
hostile action is taken on Discordia without a request from Wilhelmsborough
Moantha will see it as clear evidence of warmongering. If any millitary action
is taken against Discordia, sattelite pictures of the recent flight, as well as
any other evidence that comes into our possession will be released to the
media.

OOC: NMBC is National Moanthan Broadcasting Corporation

To: Mediator Maaschain, Head of Moanthan Foreign Affairs
From: Franberry
Re: Millitary flight over Discordia
We do no mean any harm, we merely wanted to know what was going on. Our satelites in the area are not functioning properly. We apologize for any worry we might've caused.

To: Mediator Maaschain, Head of Moanthan Foreign Affairs
From: Franberry
Re: Millitary flight over Discordia
We do no mean any harm, we merely wanted to know what was going on. Our satelites in the area are not functioning properly. We apologize for any worry we might've caused.

To Franberry:
From:Mediator Maaschain, Head of Moanthan Foreign Affairs
Re: Millitary Flight over Discordia
As we apologize for perhaps overreacting. It should be made clear, however,
that our statement concerning hostile attacks on Discordia stands, especially
as Prince William has yet to make a declaration as to Wilhelmsborough's
stance towards Discordia.

"Right off our damned coast." Czar Vasili Kotov sighed. "What days are these when anyone can push their radical ideas on us?"

"They did say they weren't terrorists. And if they won't harm Wilhelmsborough I doubt they'd agitate us." the messenger replied.

"But we're right on their border! We both have coastlines on the Black Sea! For god's sake we're allies with Wilhelmsborough! Did you ever think maybe they're against that? It is a weapons platform after all, right?"

"I suppose, sire."

"Well, we could wipe them out now...I'll save that for later. For now, send a message to Wilhelmsborough expressing our concern and ready a small fleet. I want our coast secured against any incoming craft from this new "nation." Also, tell Wilhelmsborough we'd be more than happy to take care of the "situation" for them. Prep an assault team and prepare to put this island under full naval blockade if I order it."

"Yes, sire." the messenger scrambled off.

To the "Free Republic of Discordia,"

It seems you are awfully close to our coast, and this causes us great concern. We do not condone your actions in siezing government property of our ally and therefore we have placed economic sanctions against your pathetic country. If you even come near West Corinthian waters we shall fire upon you without hesitation. Expect our arrival soon...

Signed,
Czar Vasili Kotov
West Corinthia

OOC: I'm feeling a bit aggessive right now...

"Sir we have reports that Franberrian air force planes have been harassing the Discordia outpost, running flybys and generally making a nuisance of themselves" reported one of the defence ministers

"Send them a warning, and get that ship with all the supplies heading out to there now" ordered a General.

The Civilian Cargo ship immediately steamed out of dock loaded to the maximum with medical equipment, food, fuel, electric generators, communications equipment, computers and defence equipment such as SAM Missiles and quick assemble Gun Emplacements and ammunition a squad of Animarnia Marines also were present on the craft to repel pirates or any other threat that might try and take the ship they would arrive whitin the week

---------
To: Franberry
From: Animarnia State Department
It has come to our attention that you've made several recent flybys harassing the new nation of Discordia, we ask you to cease these actions at once. It should be noted that Animarnia has recognised Discordia as an independent state and has offered it status as a protectorate of our nation and as such any attack against it would be considered an act of war against Animarnia.

Prince William looked at the current reports with growing worry. Things were getting serious now.

Not just 6 hours ago, the Black Sea Patrol spotted three foreign fighters approaching the Peninsula. This was a terrible surprise to the W.R.A.F. who didn't like surprises at all. They quickly launched fighters into the air.

However, their movement indicated that they were headed for the Platform #5. Concerns shifted from worrying about the Peninsula to the safety of the people on the platform. If they had fired upon that platform, it could have invited war.

They had nearly caused an international incident. But they simply circled around the platform in an attempt to intimidate the Discordians before they turned around and left. Just to be sure however, a squadron of Su-27s were dispatched to make sure that they exited the Black Sea.

And now, not one hour ago, their neighbor and ally, West Corinthia, had come into the conflict. Concerned about their own security, they had secured their coastline and prepared a small fleet for deployment. According to a message sent by Czar Kotev himself, all he needed was Prince William's word and he would attack.

This was beginning to spin out of control. It was time for the Prince himself to weigh in on the matter, answer any questions, and put to rest any fears.



Official Notice to all Concerned and Interested Nations

The Principality thanks you for showing your concern in these very unusual times.

I believe that I made a mistake in not specifying to all of you the military threat potential of this platform. Well, as we had previously decided to abandon the platform, all weapons and ammunition were removed. Its RADAR and SONAR tracking devices were disassembled and deactived.

The major power generators on the platform were shut down and taken apart. We only left a temporary generator which would light up the structure until demolition crews destroyed it and removed it as a hazard. Anything that is powering the structure right now would have to be from low-quality portable generators which are easily purchasable at any large retail store.

The only weapons are those that the Discordians have brought with them. So far, we believe them to be small arms and assault rifles. Nothing that could bring down a plane or a military ship. Speaking of ships, all the only craft which they have are four civilian speed boats, none of which have any built-in weaponry as far as we can see.

There is also a helicopter pad on the structure, but at the moment, they don't have a helicopter.

The only aspect about the platform which may concern you is it's strength. Our offshore platforms are extremely tough, built from some of the strongest metals and composite materials we have. An attempt to blow up the structure missiles would be extremely difficult. At most, the platform in which all activity goes on would be destroyed. The legs which support the structure would remain intact. And it is worth mention that if left alone, it could probably stay up for at least a hundred years.

In conclusion, I believe that the threat posed by this "Free Republic of Discordia" is overstated. We are all capable of destroying the platform, but we cannot because it would make us look like bullies using extreme force on such an unworthy opponent.

I would also like to state right now that I do not believe that these people are terrorists.

However, right now, I cannot and will not recognize Discordia as a sovereign entity. Considering that it hasn't even been in existance for a week, I believe that it is premature to say anything at all. They may fail. They may not.

But something will be done about this. That I can assure you.

Signed,
Prince William I, Sovereign
Principality of Wilhelmsborough
Crimean Peninsula

Wilhelmsborough,

Though what these people have done may agitate you, we believe that it is harmless. I propose that we move the platform to international waters and let them start off Dicordia. It's not a threat anyway. I could take it down in seconds if I wanted. Really, why not just let them have it?

If that isn't an option, I could always give them some puny island I own.

Prince William looked at the current reports with growing worry. Things were getting serious now.

Not just 6 hours ago, the Black Sea Patrol spotted three foreign fighters approaching the Peninsula. This was a terrible surprise to the W.R.A.F. who didn't like surprises at all. They quickly launched fighters into the air.

However, their movement indicated that they were headed for the Platform #5. Concerns shifted from worrying about the Peninsula to the safety of the people on the platform. If they had fired upon that platform, it could have invited war.

They had nearly caused an international incident. But they simply circled around the platform in an attempt to intimidate the Discordians before they turned around and left. Just to be sure however, a squadron of Su-27s were dispatched to make sure that they exited the Black Sea.

And now, not one hour ago, their neighbor and ally, West Corinthia, had come into the conflict. Concerned about their own security, they had secured their coastline and prepared a small fleet for deployment. According to a message sent by Czar Kotev himself, all he needed was Prince William's word and he would attack.

This was beginning to spin out of control. It was time for the Prince himself to weigh in on the matter, answer any questions, and put to rest any fears.



Official Notice to all Concerned and Interested Nations

The Principality thanks you for showing your concern in these very unusual times.

I believe that I made a mistake in not specifying to all of you the military threat potential of this platform. Well, as we had previously decided to abandon the platform, all weapons and ammunition were removed. Its RADAR and SONAR tracking devices were disassembled and deactived.

The major power generators on the platform were shut down and taken apart. We only left a temporary generator which would light up the structure until demolition crews destroyed it and removed it as a hazard. Anything that is powering the structure right now would have to be from low-quality portable generators which are easily purchasable at any large retail store.

The only weapons are those that the Discordians have brought with them. So far, we believe them to be small arms and assault rifles. Nothing that could bring down a plane or a military ship. Speaking of ships, all the only craft which they have are four civilian speed boats, none of which have any built-in weaponry as far as we can see.

There is also a helicopter pad on the structure, but at the moment, they don't have a helicopter.

The only aspect about the platform which may concern you is it's strength. Our offshore platforms are extremely tough, built from some of the strongest metals and composite materials we have. An attempt to blow up the structure missiles would be extremely difficult. At most, the platform in which all activity goes on would be destroyed. The legs which support the structure would remain intact. And it is worth mention that if left alone, it could probably stay up for at least a hundred years.

In conclusion, I believe that the threat posed by this "Free Republic of Discordia" is overstated. We are all capable of destroying the platform, but we cannot because it would make us look like bullies using extreme force on such an unworthy opponent.

I would also like to state right now that I do not believe that these people are terrorists.

However, right now, I cannot and will not recognize Discordia as a sovereign entity. Considering that it hasn't even been in existance for a week, I believe that it is premature to say anything at all. They may fail. They may not.

But something will be done about this. That I can assure you.

Signed,
Prince William I, Sovereign
Principality of Wilhelmsborough
Crimean Peninsula

After carefully getting into position and acquiring a target lock, tubes one and two were open and ready to fire. After recieving the order, the weapons officer in charge fire topedoes one and two at Platform #5. After several minutes of waiting, two small underwater explosions could be heard followed by larger ones as steel and other materials where heard hitting the water. With that, the capition of UES Quiet, reverse course and headed back out to sea to continue its patrol. While all was quiet and calm beneath the waves, the utter chaos that was happening above the waves was beyond imagination. Before anyone could figure out this was anything but an accident, United Earth Ship Quiet would be a long way from the seen.

While the journey back would be fought with risk getting back home undetected it was not impossible.

OCC: UES Quiet is an Seawolf class submarine- hence the name quiet, as she is very quiet to almost being indetectable.

Prince William,
Act as you will, whether it be playing this charade or taking action. We believe that by allowing this revolt to go unpunished you only encourage similar uprisings in both Wilhelmsborough and foreign countries. If such a rebellion occured in West Corinthia, know it would incur the full might of the West Corinthian Hoplite Corps. In fact, let us remind you of a time when we besieged and carpet bombed one of our own cities which had been infiltrated and siezed by rebels. Don't let media relations stand in your way of putting down dissenters. A covert op could take out this puny country in an hour and the media would never know. Or better yet, we could sabotage their boats and completely blockade them. Tell the media they have a nuke for all we care. That would justify an attack, after all.
Signed,
Vasili Kotov

P.S. This letter never existed, if you catch my drift.

The Otter Class patrol craft were in visual range of platform #5. Several underwater explosions sent ripples through the water, immediately alerting the crews. "Are they shooting at us?" was the first question asked.

"No. Someone's shooting at them. Well, protocol is protocol. Load all guns, bring all systems to full readiness. Oh, and radio the heavy battleships to get over here, if they wouldn't mind." the captain of one of the small vessels ordered. To ensure they weren't mistaken as enemies, several bright red flares erupted from the decks of the ships.

William McConnel was going through his daily briefing when a particular item grabbed his attention. The founding of the nation Discordia somehow made it into his briefing. After reading the half page of information, he asked a minor official in the Foreign Affairs department to bring him a file with all information pertaining to Discordia.

An hour later and after reading up, McConnel isssued a message to all nations.

Official Document: Axinonian Government
Presidential Policy in regards to the 'Free Republic of Discordia'

At the present time, we do not recognize the government of Discordia. Their nation resides inside Wilhelmsborough's territory, and therefore is a part of Wilhelmsborough as far as Axinon is concerned. However, any attack on Discordia by a nation other than Wilhelmsborough without Wilhelmsborough's explicit permission will be responded to with economic sanctions, and the Senate willing, with force.

Respectfully
William McConnel

PS: This message has not been approved by the Senate of Axinon.

Franklin Harrison ran his hands through his hair, and looked back down at the sheet of paper in front of him.

Someone announced "We're live in five, four, three, two, one."

And the following message went out all over Moantha, at the same time that every other major television and radio channel broadcasted similar segments.

"This is Franklin Harrison, and these are the facts. A short time ago, a group of Wilhelmsboroughian artists and anarchists seized control of an abandoned defence platform in Wilhelmsborough's territorial waters, and declared themselves an independent nation, calling themselves Discordia. Hours later, while the Moanthan government awaited declaration of Willhelmsborough's official position, Franberry planes were observed flying over the defence platform." The satellite photos were shown. "Then, shortly after Prince William of Wilhelmsborough declared that he would take no millitary action against Discordia, and that Discordia posed no serious millitary threat, an attack of unknown origins was launched on Discordia." This time, satellite photos showed the wreckage and carnage resulting from the attack. "Though little is at this time known about the nature of the attack, highly placed government officials say that it was probably a torpedo. Since no ships or planes were seen by satellites immediately preceding the attack, it is at this point assumed that the attack was carried out by submarine. This is NMBC, stay tuned, for further updates.

To all Interested Nations

We preformed the fly-by's because our satelite for the region was experiencing problems. We apologize for any worriers we might've caused.

(snip)Franberry planes were observed flying over the defence platform." The satellite photos were shown. (Snip)

To: Moantha
From: Franberry

The Franberrian goverment was very displeased at hearing that the Moanthan goverment diagreed to a previous promise. The Moanthan goverment said that they would not show pictures of the overflight unless military action was taken, we gave a good reason, and no military or offensive action was taken against Platfform #5. We now regard Moantha as lacking in the honesty department, and hope that the announcement was just some sort of error.


OOC: Yeah, I know its nothing, but I feel agressive

From the Office of The President of the Republic

We, The Liberal Democratic Republic of Brydog, hereby recongize the Free Republic of Discordia, a free and independent nation. We hope they will last and get the freedom they need.

To: Franberry
From: Mediator Maaschain, Head of Moanthan Foreign Affairs
Subject: Recent Announcement
Our apologies. The information regarding your overflight was never officially
released to the media. The information and photos were apparently leaked
by a member of our department to the press. Investigations are currently
underway.


To: Wilhelmsborough
From: Mediator Maaschain, Head of Moanthan Foreign Affairs
Subject: Requesting Permission to Send Relief Efforts to Discordia
Regarding the recent shocking attack on Discordia by a party or parties yet
unknown, Moantha requests permission to immediately send relief efforts in
an attempt to alleviate casualties.


To: Discordia
From: Mediator Maaschain, Head of Moanthan Foreign Affairs
Subject: Requesting Permission to Send Relief Efforts to Discordia
Regarding the recent shocking attack on Discordia by a party or parties yet
unknown, Moantha requests permission to immediately send relief efforts in
an attempt to alleviate casualties.

*Bump*

To: Moanthan
From: Franberry

We hope these investigations root out hte wrongdoers. Godspeed! to your agents!

------
To: Wilhelmsborough
From: Franberry

We are wondering what exactly has happen with the attack on #5? If you were involved, we shall support you, but not publicly.

"That's it," said George, staring at the computer screen. "95% probability
that the attack came from submarine."

"Have you reviewed the satellite footage with this in mind?" Asked his superior.

"Yes sir," replied George, "It must be some sort of stealth submarine. I've got a picture of one of the torpedoes, but they didn't paint their names on it."

"Keep looking George, I'll pass the information along.

To: Wilhemsburg
From: Mediator Maaschain, Head of Moanthan Foreign Affairs
Subject: Attack on Platform #5
Moanthan intelligence has recently determined that the highest probability is that the attack on Platform 15 was carried out by a stealth submarine. We suggest that you consider who has this technology, that would profit from such an attack. In addition, we anxiously await permission to send relief to Discordia. Medical supplies, food, able doctors, etc.

"They did WHAT!" the president roared over his cabinet staff.

"Yes sir, intelligence, thinks it was a torpedo", said the chief of staff

"Do we know who?" the president asked

"Well sir Franberry is a chief suspect given their flights over the platform" the intelligence minister reported.

"We offered them protection" President Friedman noted simply.

"Are we really willing to go to war over a few artists?" asked Rene Shondel the vice president.

"It's the principle" the president replied.

War plans were beginning to start to be drawn up in the higher echelons of the military and forces began to mobilise with bases being put on high alert and reserves noticed of there possible calling up to go to battle

Free Republic of Discordia

President James Pease was relieved that Prince William had decided not to attack them. This was fortunate, as it opened up the possibility of negotiations which, if steered in the right direction, could lead to the legitimizing of his control over the platform.

But suddenly, the peace was shattered by a loud explosion which shook the the structure.

James was knocked out of his seat!

"What's going on here?!"

A second explosion rocked the platform. And then, James felt the one sensation that he dreaded the most: the sensation of falling.

There were screams of terror all around as the structure buckled and began to descend into the water. Glass shattered, walls collapsed.

Some of his people lost their balance and tumbled into the sea.

James watched in shock and terror as everything seemed to collapse around him. Soon, the platform would be swallowed up by the sea. He closed his eyes tightly and waited for the end.

The structure stopped.

James waited a moment. And then he opened his eyes. He wasn't dead. Well, not yet at least.

He stood up, and walked out the door. There, horror greated him. The platform had stopped collapsing, but the lower levels of the facility were now underwater. Fires had broken out. One of the cranes had collapsed into the sea. It was just floating there on the water.

And there, on the sea, James saw a terrible sight before him. Battleships of the West Corinthian Navy. They were surrounding the damaged platform.

Against all that had happened in the past few minutes, James broke. Everything had gone straight to hell and it was all his fault. The least he could do now was save those who were left.

"Everybody! Put your weapons down! We haven't got a chance!"

To the West Corinthian ships he shouted. "No more! Please! We give up!"

Principality of Wilhelmsborough

Prince William was aghast. "WHAT IS GOING ON OVER THERE?!" He shouted to Admiral Augustine.

"I have no idea sir! But somebody, attacked platform #5!"

"Was it West Corinthia? The patrols said they were there!"

"I...don't know sir. When we contacted their ships, they denied doing it. But they did mention that they heard explosions coming from underwater."

"...Underwater? You're saying that somebody torpedoed the platform?"

"Yes sir. But I don't know who."

The Prince was silent for a moment before he spoke again. "What is the situation on the platform?"

"The platform is still mostly above the water, but I don't know how much longer the thing will continue to stand. The Free Thinkers Guild is still trapped on board that thing."

The Prince was silent, but he was angry. This was his fault. All of his fault. If he hadn't acted sooner and got these trespassers off the platform, none of this would have occured.

Those people who had attempted to start their own country on a piece of property owned by the Principality may have been criminals and fools, but they were also Wilhelmsboroughan citizens. And he'd be damned if he dared let his people suffer.

The Prince lept to his feet.

"This is what we're going to do!" The Prince turned to General Sherman. "Send 4 Black Hawk Helicopters filled with marines, and 2 Chinooks to airlift the survivers off that damned thing!"

As Sherman left the office, Prince William turned to the Admiral.

"Augustine! Get Fleet Admiral Halsey on the line! tell him to send all his submarines to the Bosphorus Strait! And tell him to get his divers ready as well! NOBODY IS GOING TO LEAVE THIS SEA UNTIL I FIND OUT WHO DID IT!"

*bump

Fleet Admiral Ernest Halsey's 1st Fleet took their positions around the Bosphorus Strait. The Six Seawolf-class submarines dived into the water and took positions in the only waterway that led to the Mediterrainian Sea.

On board the three Overlord-class Frigates, several diving teams prepared to drop into the waters. Though the submarines were powerful, they shared the common problem of all submarines have, in that they had difficulty seeing where the enemy craft was located.

That was where the divers came in. Their job was to spot any foreign submarines and report it to the submarine captains, which would then lock their weapons on target and send the target to the bottom of the sea.

Over one hundred and fifty divers would be down there, looking to spot the enemy submarine/submarines. Meanwhile, the flagship Iron Maiden would position itself inside the strait. If there was a chance that the enemy got through the six Seawolfs, it would release depth charges across a long expanse of the strait.

The submarines, the divers, and the Iron Maiden were now in position. They lay in wait for the enemy to arrive.

----------------------------------------------
To: Moantha
From: Wilhelmsborough

On behalf of the people on Platform #5, I hereby accept your offer of aid. Make sure you bring a salvage crew along.

Hello from Green Billy Commune,
We are quite happy to see you forming a new country. We are interested in maybe doing some trading. Healthy Nut Root Drink a product of our commune has shown an interest in your country. We will pay you $2 million dollars to have a giant billboard of a Healthy Nut Root Drink bottle on your island. If you are interested please let us know.

Regards,

Tommy Nicknack, NCEO

Tommy Nicknacks eyes widened as the explosions occurred. Why on earth would they do this. He scratched his dreadlocks. Another business opportunity lost. Then he squinted. Maybe he could buy the other islands... A perfect place for an offshore businessman like himself.

Official Message:
From:King Winston I
To:Prince William

I just received a report that there has been an incident at the Platform that the Free Republic of Discordia had decleared a nation. Has anyone been hurt and can we offer any assistance?

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

On Board the Submarine UES Quiet

While the journey through the Bosphorus Strait and the Mediterranean Sea had been tense, that was all over now as the ship and crew entered the Deep Atlantic and headed home after being 6 months out at sea. The crew was looking forward to getting home and spending time with their family and friends. After receiving those strange instructs that had diverted them into the Bosphorus strait and had delayed their journey home by more then a week, the crew were wondering just was going on. What had they shot at and why were they diverted to that area?

As the day was about to end, the crew finally received some news. Why news from above is also welcome, this news was not what they wanted to hear.

Official Message From High Command:Theirs been an incident with the Free Republic of Discordia, they may acquire assistance all ships near the Bosphorus Straits are to set course for the Mediterranean Sea and wait for instructs.

Those Ships that were heading home my continue to do so.

"Sir!"
"Yes?"
"Something is happening in Wilhelmsborough"
"What?"
"Yes sir, they're navy has set sail, theyre blockading the sea. Apparently, there was an attack on Plattform #5."
"Ok then, get monitoring that situation."
"Yes Sir."
"Also, place some air force units on alert."
"Sir!"

Moments after recieveing permission from Prince William, transport helicopters carrying doctors and medical supplies were launched. A short time later they arrived. The helicopters landed, and then, as soon as the supplies and personnel were unloaded, took off again, clearing the way for the next wave that would soon come. Most of the supplies delivered in the first wave of relief were suitable only for triage, which was exactly what was needed.

The doctor in charge of the operation stepped foward and asked the first unwounded resident of Platform #5, "Is there a room suitable for use a triage center still above water? Also, if there's a medical bay we'll able to staff and supply that in short order." Already the second wave of helicopters was becoming visible on the horizon.

OOC- how many people are on the platfform?

OOC- how many people are on the platfform?

OOC: Didn't he say forty or fifty somewhere along the line?

bump

OOC- how many people are on the platfform?

OCC: 40 people- Wilhelmsborough stated the number in post 26. Heres the post. (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=10706004&postcount=26)

OCC: 40 people- Wilhelmsborough stated the number in post 26. Heres the post. (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=10706004&postcount=26)

OOC: Of course that was before your, I mean, the as of yet unexplained attack on them.

OCC: The shots were designed to sink the platform but hopefully give the people on it time to get to safety. Wilhelmsborough has stated yet anyone has died, but will see how its goes, if people indeed did die. I'll leave that up to Wilhelmsborough decision. Well you just have work it IC out the who did it and why. Why I try to keep the attack unexplained. So far I'm winning that battle. But, will see how it goes if I can keep winning that battle.

OCC: The shots were designed to sink the platform but hopefully give the people on it time to get to safety. Wilhelmsborough has stated yet anyone has died, but will see how its goes, if people indeed did die. I'll leave that up to Wilhelmsborough decision. Well you just have work it IC out the who did it and why. Why I try to keep the attack unexplained. So far I'm winning that battle. But, will see how it goes if I can keep winning that battle.

OOC: Right. All my millitary intelligence has been able to determine is that those shots came from a stealth sub. So everyone who has stealth submarines and is operating in that area is a suspect, including, a suppose Wilhelmsborough himself. After all, what better way to protect himself from public outcry than to make it seem unlikely that he commited the attacks?

Bump. Again.

OOC:

How many people died?

Well, in order to figure that out, I'll have to pull out my polyhedral dice. Now I'll just roll a d20, because at most, half the people should die, and that's really it.

Ok, eleven people will die!

OOC:

How many people died?

Well, in order to figure that out, I'll have to pull out my polyhedral dice. Now I'll just roll a d20, because at most, half the people should die, and that's really it.

Ok, eleven people will die!

OOC: Okay, so thirty people left, and then there's whoever's wounded that my doctors are working on. Is James dead?

"Admiral Augustine?"

"Yes, sir?"

"I've come to realize that there have been mistakes made in how we defend ourselves. We've spent so much effort focusing on air patrols that we forgot about the sea."

The Admiral stood up straight. "Well sir, I'm glad you see things this way. With your permission sir, I would like to establish a permanent patrol over the Bosphorus Strait. We could use the 1st Fleet to do it. The Submarines could guard the strait in threes. When it comes time for them to return to port, the remaining three subs will come in and take position."

"Sounds like you've been planning this for a while." remarked Prince William.

"Yes. We'll also use the Frigates to house diving teams. They will be in charge of spotting any undersea craft which we can't see on SONAR and communicate it to the submarines.

There will be no more than fifty divers from each ship. Each ship will send their diving teams in shifts. At any given point in time, there should be at least 50 divers in and around the Strait."

The Prince thought for a moment. "That sounds like a good plan, Admiral." he said. "But I think it could use more submarines. First thing tomorrow, I'll put in an order for a whole bunch of them. We'll dispurse them throughout the fleets, but Halsey will get six of them."

"Thank you sir. I'm sure the Fleet Admiral will be pleased." The Admiral saluted and left the office.

OOC: Okay, so thirty people left, and then there's whoever's wounded that my doctors are working on. Is James dead?

OOC:

Nope, he's still very much alive. He was in one of the highest points in the structure at the time of the attack.

Moments after recieveing permission from Prince William, transport helicopters carrying doctors and medical supplies were launched. A short time later they arrived. The helicopters landed, and then, as soon as the supplies and personnel were unloaded, took off again, clearing the way for the next wave that would soon come. Most of the supplies delivered in the first wave of relief were suitable only for triage, which was exactly what was needed.

The doctor in charge of the operation stepped foward and asked the first unwounded resident of Platform #5, "Is there a room suitable for use a triage center still above water? Also, if there's a medical bay we'll able to staff and supply that in short order." Already the second wave of helicopters was becoming visible on the horizon.

Free Republic of Discordia

The shell-shocked man looked at the Moanthian doctor with a distant, glazed expression on his face. Clearly, he had been traumatized by the destructive attack which had taken the lives of so many of his friends.

"A room?...yeah...there's probably a place below the radar tower you could use..."

Free Republic of Discordia

The shell-shocked man looked at the Moanthian doctor with a distant, glazed expression on his face. Clearly, he had been traumatized by the destructive attack which had taken the lives of so many of his friends.

"A room?...yeah...there's probably a place below the radar tower you could use..."

The doctor nodded and relayed the message to the rest of the crew who had landed. The started towards the radar tower, most carrying supplies, others stretchers with wounded men on the,.

"I know this is hard for you," said the doctor, "But I need to know anything that might be able to help. How much is flooded, where the most wounded will be, everything."

Meanwhile, the first of the second wave of transport helicopters arrived. Along with the superior medical supplies brought, there were a number of pumps and large uninflated balloons to force out water.

OOC: The balloons loosely based on a mythbusters episode where they unsank a ship by piping ping-pong balls into it. This is just slightly less silly than ping-pong balls.

Battleships and supporting vessels of the WCN (West Corinthian Navy) stood at full alert surrounding the island. Already having denied the attack, they began submarine sweeps around the island, though it woudn't take a rocket scientist to figure out they weren't really trying to find anything. Unofficially they were glad the platform was attacked by another, because now they didn't have to do it.

Even now a squad of WCN Myrmidons (our version of NAVY SEALS) was heading to island. Their mission: to sabotage the civilian boats tied up to the intact section of the island. They had to be careful, for a massive humanitarian operation was going on. Another team was going in ahead of them claiming to be bringing humanitarian supplies, but really clearing a path and distracting any opposition.

OOC:

Yeah, I heard about that before. It is pretty cool.

IC:

"I think...that the lower levels are pretty much under water now...Destroyed... I think that our boats were under the platform. They are probably crushed now. Are they crushed?...Leader's in the tower I think."

OOC:

Yeah, I heard about that before. It is pretty cool.

IC:

"I think...that the lower levels are pretty much under water now...Destroyed... I think that our boats were under the platform. They are probably crushed now. Are they crushed?...Leader's in the tower I think."

"Right! You!" The doctor shouted to several men. "Did we bring any scuba gear?"

"Um, yeah, two suits."

"Get whoever can use them into them. Send one down to investigate the bottom of the plaform, take pictures of the wreckage, see if there's any boats left. Have the other Head down into the flooded sections, see if there's anyone trapped in air pockets."

As the two men started running back towards the supplies, the doctor strode into the radar tower.

Things that go bump midmorning?

Bump again, coz I'm bored.

"Right! You!" The doctor shouted to several men. "Did we bring any scuba gear?"

"Um, yeah, two suits."

"Get whoever can use them into them. Send one down to investigate the bottom of the plaform, take pictures of the wreckage, see if there's any boats left. Have the other Head down into the flooded sections, see if there's anyone trapped in air pockets."

As the two men started running back towards the supplies, the doctor strode into the radar tower.

Free Republic of Discordia

James Pease, already very much on edge due to the damage upon the platform and the sudden appearance of West Corinthian ships, jumped as a man walked into the room.

Quickly, James pulled out a Beretta M92 and pointed it at the man.

"Who are you?" he shouted "What do you want? Have you come to kill me?"

Suddenly, Pease heard the sound of helicopters overhead.

------------------------
Principality of Wilhelmsborough

Major Alex Lifeson led the 4 Blackhawks and 2 Chinooks over the damaged platform. His mission was to get the civilians back to the mainland before the structure collapsed entirely. Presently, Moanthan relief ships were on the scene, helping the wounded.

But as he came up on Platform #5, the Major saw something that made him flinch with anger: West Corinthian ships

"What the hell are they doing here?" he hissed.

A couple years ago, Alex had been part of the first air patrol over the Black Sea. Their job was to moniter all activity in the southeastern corner, near Georgia.

Unfortunately, they had ran into a West Corinthian air patrol. His message to them got misinterperated and they attacked. In the resulting skirmish, two of his planes got shot down. One pilot was killed, and one was heavily wounded.

Although the Wilhelmsborough government had managed to smooth things over, he still could not forget the pilot that was lost, and the injustice that the wounded pilot had recieved: 2 years hard labor. So what if he killed one of their officers? He was a stranger in a strange land, and he was terrified.

But that was then, and this was now. He switched on the amplifier and spoke into the megaphone.

"ATTENTION, MOANTHAN RELIEF EFFORT. PLEASE HAVE THE SURVIVERS READY FOR TRANSPORT BACK TO THE MAINLAND. THE STRUCTURE MAY COLLAPSE AT ANY TIME, SO PLEASE MOVE QUICKLY."

And then he focused on the West Corinthian ships.

"ATTENTION, WEST CORINTHIAN SHIPS. THE SITUATION IS UNDER CONTROL HERE. PLEASE WITHDRAW YOUR CRAFT. REPEAT, WE ARE HERE TO EXTRACT THE CIVILIANS FROM THE PLATFORM."

*bump

Free Republic of Discordia

James Pease, already very much on edge due to the damage upon the platform and the sudden appearance of West Corinthian ships, jumped as a man walked into the room.

Quickly, James pulled out a Beretta M92 and pointed it at the man.

"Who are you?" he shouted "What do you want? Have you come to kill me?"

Suddenly, Pease heard the sound of helicopters overhead.


"Relax, I'm part of Moanthan relief efforts. We're here to help. We've set up a triage center. We're going to try and resurface this platform, but we need to evacuate you in the meantime, just in case."

"Relax, I'm part of Moanthan relief efforts. We're here to help. We've set up a triage center. We're going to try and resurface this platform, but we need to evacuate you in the meantime, just in case."

Hands shaking, James lowered his gun. Then, his legs gave out under him as he collapsed to the floor. Outside, the Wilhelmsborough helicopters made their presence known.

"Oh God, Oh God, what did we do to deserve this?!" he cried. "W-we we-weren't hurting anyone, damnit! This place was abandoned and useless! We gave it purpose!"

Outside, the first Chinook helicopter had landed.

The man hiccupped pathetically. "Who did it? Was it West Corinthia? Or was it the Principality?"

Hands shaking, James lowered his gun. Then, his legs gave out under him as he collapsed to the floor. Outside, the Wilhelmsborough helicopters made their presence known.

"Oh God, Oh God, what did we do to deserve this?!" he cried. "W-we we-weren't hurting anyone, damnit! This place was abandoned and useless! We gave it purpose!"

Outside, the first Chinook helicopter had landed.

The man hiccupped pathetically. "Who did it? Was it West Corinthia? Or was it the Principality?"

"I don't know," said the doctor, "All I know is it was a submarine. Moantha is trying to figure it, and Wilhemsborough has sealed off the area. But we need to go. I promise, I'll do everything I can to insure that if we do manage repairs, you will be able to return here.

James looked out towards the terrifying West Corinthian ships. Then he turned back to the Moanthan doctor.

"I would like some security people around me when I go to the chopper." he said, "is that at all possible?"

James looked out towards the terrifying West Corinthian ships. Then he turned back to the Moanthan doctor.

"I would like some security people around me when I go to the chopper." he said, "is that at all possible?"

The doctor nodded and stepped outside. A moment later several burly men carrying pistols came in.

"These men will escort you to the chopper. Good luck," said the doctor.

A West Corinthian Rigid-Hull Inflatable with a mounted 7.62mm machine-gun pulled up near Alex Lifeson. One of the men pulled out a megaphone and responded, "As you request, our ships will pull back to West Corinthian waters. We don't want any of those pigs entering our area of control though. However, we see they no longer pose a threat so we are sending humanitarian aid for the critically wounded. We ask only that we are allowed to run the distribution of these supplies." He put down the megaphone and waited a moment in case they wanted to respond.

In the distance several more of the small craft were speeding in, though instead of guns they carried crates of supplies.

Free Republic of Discordia

"Thank you, sir." said James Pease.

He turned to the security. "We'd better move fast to the helicopter."

James and the security detail made a dash towards the Chinook. When he arrived, he found that everyone that hadn't been horribly wounded were already aboard. A total of 19 out of 29 people. Some of them looked as shell shocked as he.

James took a seat. He may have been President of Discordia, but at this moment, he was no better than any of the other civilians.

--------------------------------
Principality of Wilhelmsborough

Lifeson hesitated. Should he tell them to get lost? Or should he allow the West Corinthians, as distrustful as they were, to assist in an extremely difficult situation as this was? Could they be trusted around the wounded?

Then he saw the Chinook filled with the refugees take off and head towards the mainland with two Blackhawks as defense.

It would seem that the civilian problem had been mostly taken care of.

He picked up his microphone. "Very well, you may distribute the supplies. Wilhelmsboroughan and Moanthan troops will be on hand to assist in the distribution.

Meanwhile, around the Bosperous Strait...

Fleet Admiral Halsey's 1st Fleet was still maintaining it's blockade of the only way in or out of the Black Sea. And still, the unknown submarine had not shown up yet.

But they were patient. They would wait as long as needed.

At present, the next group of divers were going in, slowly replacing the last group which were beginning to run low on air.

The man in the rigid-hull inflatable toggled his neck radio and spoke loudly, "Command, this is Yuri. We've just been cleared to go in, over." This was secretly the command for half a dozen WCN Myrmidons to detach from underneath the craft and swim, using SCUBA gear they were already wearing, to a secluded area of the platform for insertion. The inflatable and several others commenced unloading medical supplies shortly afterward.

Though the water was murky, it was very deep and the Myrmidons easily reached a section that was relatively intact, a lower level. They climbed up onto a dock and stashed their gear in an empty storage locker. "Let's keep it quiet, men." their captain said, loading his dart gun. Each soldier carried a dart gun, with darts that induced sleep, and a silenced pistol. In full camouflage, they headed furtively towards where they believed the terrorists' boats were moored.

Official Message:
From:King Winston I
To:Prince William

I just received a report that there has been an incident at the Platform that the Free Republic of Discordia had decleared a nation. Has anyone been hurt and can we offer any assistance?

After waitng a day and still not receiving any word from the Wilhelmsborough's government, it was painful to hear that the message had never been relayed to them and as such the message was resubmitted and this time King Winston made darn sure it went through this time.

Prince William raised an eyebrow at the letter from United Earthlings offering assistance to the relief effort. The Prince took out a pen and a pad of paper and began to write.

The humanitarian situation is well under control at the moment. I believe that assistance from West Corinthia and Moantha is enough help, especially for so few people that are left.

However, we are still working to figure out what country attacked the platform. If you would like to assist in this venture, or can give us a lead, by all means, drop us a line.

If our govenment can assit in anyway, just say the word. We have sent our 1st fleet out and it is standing by to receive orders.

The squad of Myrmidons halted around a corner, concealing themselves in the shadow of the wall. The sergeant, dart gun at the ready, peeked around the corner quickly. "Clear." he whispered, and the team continued onward. Finally they reached the section of the platform where the Discordians had moored what was left of their boats.

Many of the boats had already been destroyed in the attack or put out of service indefinitely. Several bobbed up and down against the dock as a wake from a patrol boat came in.

"Quickly, now." the sergeant ordered, looking around nervously. "They should have people coming down to assess the damage soon. Alistair, Roman, cover us."

As the two men watched for intruders, the rest of the team got to work planting small explosive charges on anything that had belonged to the Discordians, mainly their boats.

Once the task had been completed, the team returned to their insertion point, donned their SCUBA equipment, and disappeared into the murky waters of the Black Sea.

"An entire fleet is not necessary. A science vessel is enough."

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

To: Moantha

A while ago, you mentioned that one of your satellites saw the torpedo strike the platform. We here at the Principality would like like to know if you have been paying attention to any unusual undersea craft moving in or around the Black Sea. It may very well be the enemy sub that hit the platform. Please respond with any new information on the matter.

-Prince William I

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

The explosive devices which were attached to the civilian boats went off. Fortunately, they were not very powerful explosives, just strong enough to blow holes in the boat's hulls.

The boats, already damaged, sank to the bottom.

A patrol of Moanthan peacekeepers came by a few minutes later. They thought they heard an explosion. They shrugged it off, believing it to be debris.

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

General Sherman spoke to the pilot of the Chinook. "Captain, when you land, I want you to get the leader James Pease straight over to the royal palace. Prince William wishes to speak to him."

"Yes sir. I'll make sure that he knows."

James Pease sat in the back of the limo as it rode towards the Livadiya Palace in Yalta. He was wringing his hands in fear.

What does the Prince want with me? He thought. Is he going to jail me? Execute me?

The palace loomed up in front of the limo. At once James saw the awesome might of the Principality. Armed guards in ceremonial uniforms stood upright outside the gates, M16's in hand, while a group of soldiers marched in perfect formation along the inside perimeter. Abrams tanks kept watch on the road, their guns pointed towards the gates.

Up in the skies flew the mighty Combat Airships of the W.R.A.F., including 12 of the Trojan II Airborne Aircraft Carriers. Fighter aircraft was taking off for patrols, and returning aircraft was landing like clockwork. At present, a helicopter, which had just taken off from Livadiya Palace was heading towards one of the gargantuan Trojan II's.

James looked in awe at the might of Wilhelmsborough's military might. And to think that he would have tried to put himself on a level that was equal to this! He kicked himself. This had been a bad idea from the beginning. How could he have not realized it?

It was probably his foolish youth telling him that he was invincible and that he could do anything without consequence.

His thoughts were interrupted as the car stopped outside the gate. The Driver presented his ID and the vehicle was waved inside.

To James this was like a dream. He had always wondered what was inside the Royal Palace. And now he was about to find out. And as he was escorted inside the building by several heavily armed guards, he wished that it could have been done under better circumstances.

We have detected several naval vessels moving about, but no submarines. We have however determined that it was a stealth submarine.

1st Fleet
Flagship: Iron Maiden

"Admiral Halsey, the Admiral of the Navy would like to speak to you sir."

Fleet Admiral Ernest Halsey picked up a reciever. "Patch him in on this line."

"Aye sir."

Halsey waited for few seconds before he spoke. "Yes Admiral, how may I be of service?"

Admiral Augustine spoke. "I have some good news for you, Fleet Admiral."

Halsey raised an eyebrow. "Oh really sir. What is that?"

"The order that our Prince put in for more submarines has come in."

The Fleet Admiral's eyes widened in surprise. He knew where this was going. However, he kept his voice calm and professional."

"Has it sir?'

"Yes indeed!" replied the Admiral. 'And it's high time that the 1st Fleet expanded a bit. Yours is the smallest fleet in out navy, you know."

Halsey's eyes shut tight in annoyance. The fact that he commanded the tiny fleet was a major thorn in his side. Those of lower ranks wishing to advance knew better than to point that out.

"We here at Headquarters have decided to give six submarines to you, Halsey."

The Fleet Admiral's face broke out into a wide grin. "Thank you very much Admiral Augustine!"

"I'm not finished!" said the Admiral in an annoyed tone. We have also aquired several Nimitz carriers. We have decide to deliver two of these ships to you."

Now, Halsey's mind had been blown. "Admiral, I-I don't know what to say."

"Yes, yes, your very welcome." Augustine replied. "Now get back to work!"

The Fleet Admiral saluted, even though Augustine wasn't there. "Aye-aye, Admiral!" he said, and hung up the phone.


The Updated Roster of the 1st Fleet:

3 Nimitz-class Carriers
3 Overlord-class Frigates
12 Seawolf-class submarines

Fleet Admiral Ernest Halsey commanding.

We have detected several naval vessels moving about, but no submarines. We have however determined that it was a stealth submarine.

Perhaps you could expand your satellite search to include everything within the Mediterranian Sea, of the Atlantic area that is nearby? If you can inform us of anything, our Air Force will have planes out there in no time at all.

The search has been expanded. We are picking up some West Corinthian naval movements, but no submarines.

That's to be expected. I am confident that they couldn't have gotten far in less than a day and a half. Something will show up. I'm absolutely sure of it.

OOC: United Earthlings, is there any specific filter, (Infrared, sonar, blind eye) that would be able to detect the sub?

OOC: United Earthlings, is there any specific filter, (Infrared, sonar, blind eye) that would be able to detect the sub?

OCC: Not really, this operation had been planed out ahead of time. The sub is long gone and every step to keep it hidden has been used. The odds of it being found are so low that it not worth even looking for it. Remember it would take atleast a day for anyone to figured out that the platform was attacked. By that time I would be long gone or atleast nearing the exit of the Med. If you want to know what methods I used I let you know. But, what I came up with should keep the sub from ever being located.

Heres information on the submarine. Decided for your self, if your tracking methods will be able to detect it. If our own systems can't detect it, whats the odds yours our. So, as I said before hand the odds of finding the sub are almost nill. SeaWolf Class (http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/ssn-21.htm)

James Pease sat down on a bench outside the Prince's office as a soldier went to one of the heavily armed guards outside the door and informed him that the Prince's guest had arrived. That guard went inside the room.

A few minutes later, the door opened. Pease looked up expecting to see Prince William. But it was not the Prince.

James gasped in fear. He recognized the man before him. It was the General of the Air Force himself: Salazar T. Sherman.

Sherman stood there in a fancy dress uniform decorated with many stripes and many medals and looked down at the plainclothed James with a expression of distain on his face.

"The Prince is ready to see you now." Sherman said in his deep Liberian accent.

James Pease stood up on wobbly legs and slowly walked into the Prince's office.

Before him he saw the ornate desk that the Prince sat at. Flanking the desk were two flags. On the left was the National Flag, depicting an arm bursting out of the ground clutching a sword in it's hand. On the right was the Battle Flag. This flag depicted a snake coiled up and ready to strike. The words DON'T TREAD ON ME were written at the bottom.

The Prince however, was not sitting there.

"Hello James."

Pease jumped and spun around to see...Prince William himself!

His eyes widened in shock as he slowly realized that he was standing in front of the leader of the Principality.

The Prince smiled and spread his arms out before James.
"Welcome to my Palace, Mr. Pease. I've been expecting you."

West Corinthian Official Statement

We are withdrawing all humanitarian aid from the platform. All of our people will be evacuated and any wounded in their care will be left where they lie. It is up to other nations to care for them now. That is all.

Signed,
Aleksandr Demorov
Head of Foreign Relations

West Corinthia: We acknowledge your pulling off of Platform #5. Thank you very much for your assistance. We can take it from here.

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

James Pease looked at Prince William in awe. The man was about 6 feet tall. He as not muscular, but he was definately not fat, He had a decent build.

The Prince wore an expensive suit, over which was a black trenchcoat. The Prince's long hair was tied back in a ponytail. The man looked like a rockstar.

"Prince William, why have you called for me, sir?"

The Prince smiled. "Well, Mr. President," Pease cringed internally. He felt horribly guilty that he had had the audacity to call himself a leader. It had only gotten his friends killed or wounded.

The Prince picked up on James' pained expression in an instant. "The reason why I have called you here is to discuss how you're going to pay for this incident."

Pease bowed his head in shame. "Throw me in jail for life. Execute me if you have to."

"No, I meant how you're going to repay us for the money we wasted sending out ships and humanitarian aid. Such things are expensive, James."

The Prince's expression darkened. "Under normal circumstances, I would be more than willing to send out humanitarian aid. But in this case, I find it absolutely annoying that I had to send offical humanitarian aid to FORTY PEOPLE ON A FUCKING PLATFORM!"

Pease jumped back at the Prince's outburst.

The Prince lowered his voice. "Now, like it or not, you and your little group are going to pay the government back for what you did: hijacking our platforms, nearly starting an international incident, nearly getting yourselves all blown to hell by an unknown submarine."

"Who sent it?" interrupted James Pease.

"We don't know. But from now on, the Bosperous Strait will be monitered by the 1st Fleet at all times, by both ship and submarine. No foreign subs are entering our sea."

"That's...that's very good..." said Pease sheepishly.

"Anyway, for causing us to send humanitarian aid, deploy an entire fleet, and for generally wasting our time, you've cost us a lot of money. A LOT of money."

There was silence.

"How much money, sir?" said James hesitantly.

"Oh, it's somewhere in the tens of millions of Euro." replied the Prince.

Pease choked. "TENS OF MILL-I don't have that kind of money sir!"

The Prince looked upon the distraught man with a stone-faced expression. "Well then I suggest you find a creative way to make it!"

"B-but h-h-how?" stammered the would-be President.

Prince William smiled. "I think I have an idea..."

The Principality of Wilhelmsborough
http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/wilhelmsborough.jpg
"Take not thy Thunder from us but take away our Pride."

Official Statement From the Principality of Wilhelmsborough

After careful deliberation, our sovereign, Prince William the First, has decided to grant the "Free Republic of Discordia" the status of a recognized nation.

The Prince would like to make it clear that this was not a simple decision to come to. As you may or may not know, the Platform upon which the Republic had been founded was attacked by an unknown submarine, resulting in the deaths of 11 people. It forced the Principality to send humanitarian aid to the platform.

A total of $25 million was expanded to help these people. Now, for a country such as ours, $25 million is nothing. However, Prince William feels that it was too much money to spend on a mere platform.

Therefore, the Prince has ordered James Pease, the President of Discordia, and leader of the Free Thinkers Guild, to pay back the Principality in full for its assistance rendered. In order to do so, the Prince has decided that they should become their own country, and find a way to generate their own wealth through whatever economy they can develop.

Platform number five, which was critically damaged in the attack, has been rebuilt at a cost of 500 million dollars. They will have to pay this back to the Principality as well.

It may take the Free Republic many, many years to pay back their debt to the Principality. But when that point arrives, the Prince believes that they will have gotten used to their status and position as an independent nation set on a platform.

A set of rules and conditions have been drawn up as well. All trade will be done exclusively with the Wilhelmsborough. If Discordia needs something from a foreign country, it must first go through Wilhelmsborough ports. Gambling will be allowed in Discordia. The Principality will have an embassy (read: office) on the platform. If any ships from Wilhelmsborough are in Jeopardy, the Free Republic must act to protect them from harm.

There are no rules preventing Discordian leadership from renovating and/or expanding the structure of Platform #5. They will also have their own armed security force, and even a navy, although the craft cannot be longer than 12 meters. They will have to pay for their navy with whatever money they have, and Wilhelmsborough will NOT give them any craft to start out with. It should also be noted that this navy is for defense only. They must NEVER use it against another country.

Now, before likeminded individuals suddenly decide that they want to follow Discordia's lead, I would suggest that you listen up. The independence of Discordia only came about due to a series of events which were unique and unrepeatable. If anybody dare attempts to start a second independent nation on our property, whether it be off our shores, under the ground, or in the air, then the Principality will not hesitate to stop these attempts with whatever means are necessary. Consider this to be your last warning. You will not be reminded again.

We here at the Principality wish James Pease and the Free Republic of Discordia a bright (and profitable) future. Hopefully, they will come to understand and appeciate the work that our government, and for that matter, the work that all governments do to keep their nations functioning.

Sincerely,
Prince William I, Sovereign
Principality of Wilhelmsborough
Crimean Peninsula

OCC: So is this RP over? and if it is that was a good ending. Again if it is an offical ending I post a offical reply.

Yeah, I'd say that the RPing is over. Activity ceased long ago. I just had to conclude it in a way that satisfied me.

Yeah, I'd say that the RPing is over. Activity ceased long ago. I just had to conclude it in a way that satisfied me.

IC: Since the anouncement by the nation of Wilhelmshorough ealier today- the government of United Earthlings after careful discussion of the course of events over the past several days, has granted the nation of Free Republic of Discordia official recognization as a fellow member of the world and all that it entitles.

We wish the Free Republic of Discordia the best of luck and hope for the future after such a tragic beginning.