NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: This is a CLOSED RP. Sorry it took so long to write the Intro.

The Imperial Zarustran Ministry for Foreign Affairs is a large, neo-colonial style building in the centre of Zarus City, several buildings down from the Whitehall complex that housed the majority of the Civil Service. Often a buzzing area of activity for governmental business, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs contained the Foreign Intelligence Directorate, a small sub-division of the Ministry that observed the activities outside the territorial borders of the Empire.

The Isle of Man was an unusual case. A small island off the west coast of the home territory, it was technically part of the territory of the Empire. However, being off the coast of the homeland and semi-autonomous in internal affairs, observation of activities came under the authority of the Foreign Intelligence Directorate.

The small office inside the Foreign Affairs building contained a small amount of staff, processing telegrams and computer information gained from several sources outside the office. It was here that the first information of the Coup arrived.

The telegram arrived as part of a special delivery of time sensitive information that was sent to the processing section of the Foreign Intelligence Directorate. Within several moments of the telegram being addressed, it was confirmed and fast-tracked to the Minister for Foreign Affairs in his office at the top of the building. Within half an hour, the Minister had requested and audience with the Prime Minister.

----

The Isle of Man maintained a small population of 40,000 inhabitants in a semi-autonomous state. Historically a trouble spot for the Empire, it had rebelled several times in its history. That was not to change.

Citizens woke up to find that the Imperial flag had been replaced with the Hammer and Sickle fluttering from the flag poles. Turning on their televisions, they found the Governor-General of the Isle of Man wearing a red star pinned to his lapel and a grin on his face.

“Comrades,” he announced gleefully. “Our time of retribution is here. We have cast off the shackles of the corrupt, capitalist empire that has oppressed us for so long. Now we are free!” He raised a clenched fist and shook it for emphasis. “We will strive forward in creating a Socialist Republic, free from oppression, inequality and injustice. Long live the global revolution!”

The inhabitants, being largely nationalist and left-wing, took this mostly with joyful fervour. Street parties lasted into the night, celebrating the new independence of the Isle from the rest of the Empire.

In the Governor’s Mansion, Governor-General Marcus Dalton watched the explosion of fireworks and emotions from his office window, several stories up in the massive building. He sighed; it was done. He had not liked making the deal, but it was necessary to gain independence.

“Contact Kraven,” he said aloud. A shadowy figure stepped forward, still partially in the dark. “Tell them the die is cast.”

OOC: I'll skip past the boring "Permission to land" Fluff that goes on


Several Hours Later, The Isle of Man, Unknown Airstrip

It was a sleek jet, a private jet and was also unmarked, its wings were swept back into something that looked like cruel talons of an eagle, its tail wing bore no markings, and its cockpit was black out, this was a Kraven Private Jet...

The Sky was a beautiful bright blue, with very little in the way of clouds, but uncannily as the private jet touched down, on the horizon dark storm clouds toiled and twisted in a sickening fashion, symbolising the great evil that The Isle of Man government had brought upon itself, The Jets wheels screached a little as the rubber touched lightly against the tarmac, and in unision the storm clouds let loose a bolt of lightening that arched across the sky, and in turn into the sea...

It was obvious to anyone watching the storm that it had also started raining...

Withing a few minutes the twin jets of this craft began to power up, its reverse thrust slowed the plane down to an almost stand still, until the Capitol Police pilots began to taxi it across the runway and towards the point on the tarmac where they would disembark, slowly, the craft stopped and its automated doors opened, allowing the steps to glide to the tarmac, followed by a jet black jackboot that touched the steps giving off a distinct metallic sound...

It was a Capitol Police Trooper, its red lenses surveyed the airstrip with cold unfeeling sense of duty, its black armour reflected the sunlight a little, while following it, were four others, they formed up with a perfect drill, lined up either side of the aircraft, as following them were one more pair of Jet Black Jackboots... A Reichmarshal... a particular one to be correct...

His Breathing was heavy and labourious, and as his legs and limbs moved, servos whined and hissed as they moved his body forward in an almost robotic gait...

It was Helghan, the Infamous Reichmarshal of The Corporation, his cybernetic eyes looked at the world with sheer hatred, but here was not a mission of Extermination, but rather one of securing a deal... so to speak..

From there he waited, waited for the Delegate to come out and meet him...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v399/HorusGodEmperor/ReichmarshalHelghanMasked.jpg

OOC: presuming this is open for now, otherwise disregard this

The following was written in Neo-Enochian and encoded with a dual one-time pad. It has been translated and decoded to be readible.

To: Imperial Zarustran Ministry of Foreign Affairs
From: Office of the Arch Arsonist, Carpathia Ziemowit
Subject: Coup de Etat in The Isle of Man
Classification: Eyes Only, Destroy after reading

It has been brought to my attention that your nation has recently been split by communist rebels. We would like to extend an informal offer of military aid to quash these scum, least you become embroiled in a war involing more insidious powers. Do not hesitate to contact my office in the future.

Carpathia Ziemowit
Arch Arsonist

To: Imperial Zarustran Ministry of Foreign Affairs
From: Ministry of Foreign Affiars, Oakridge London
Subject: Coup de Etat in The Isle of Man

We would like to help The Empire of Zarustra in its current troubles. We have a small milary but would be able to supply weapons (Assault Rifles, Sniper Rifles and Machine Guns) for the governmnet forces. We would be be willing to lower sell these for very cheap (50% off) to help out. Please let us no if you are interested.

Charlie Stewart
Minister of Foreign Affairs

OOC: Sorry, but this is closed. I apologise for not making that clear enough.

Kraven - I will post a response later tonight - I have been away visiting my girlfriend since Friday.

General Henry Macintosh, formerly Colonel Macintosh of the Imperial Zarustran Armed Forces (IZAF) and now Supreme Commander of the hastly-formed Isle of Man Defence Force, shifted nervously as he watched the aircraft taxi from the runway and to the staging point and shut down its engines.

Inwardly, he felt a sheer sense of dread at what was aboard. He had heard stories regarding the Kraven Corporation, as had practically anyone with access to communications from the outside world, and would prefer not to involve the Isle of Man with such a doubtful group. A dedicated follower of the Communist Revolution, Macintosh saw Kraven as the direct opposite of what he stood for, oppressing their workers in order to make billions in currency from arms sales.

However, the Isle of Man Defence Force numbered twenty thousand poorly armed militia that were stretched to their current limit simply policing the island. They needed help, and Kraven was powerful. The Corporation could defend the entire island easily with only a fraction of their military strength. Macintosh just wondered what deal they would have to make in order to secure this arrangement.

As the Reichmarshall stepped from the aircraft, the General was confirmed in his suspicions. He shivered; the sheer look of the Kraven Corporation representative made him incredibly uneasy. Still, suppressing his nerves, he stepped forward to the man, flanked by two Militia Officers, and saluted.

"Welcome to the Socialist Republic of the Isle of Man, Reichmarshall," the General said smartly. "I am here to escort you to the Governor-General."

---

Emperor Alexis Zarus sat gravely in the large, leather-backed chair at the head of the table and listened in silence as he was briefed on the situation.

The Frederick Chamber of the Imperial Palace was named after Emperor Frederick Charles Zarus I, who had used the room as his base of military command during the Zarustran Civil War in the 1940s. Since then, it had been traditionally used as a Conference and Command Centre by the Head of State, and comprised several Communications links, High Definition Television and Photographic displays.

Sitting around the table, aside from the Emperor himself, was Prime Minister Julian Desoto, Minister for Defence Emma Kensington, Field Marshall Tyler Agrippa, Foreign Affairs Minister Harry Waltz and Gregory Steinberger, the Chairman of the Foreign Intelligence Directorate. All of them looked grim.

The Emperor sat back in his chair in the momentary silence that followed Field Marshall Agrippa's analysis of the situation. "So we could take the island easily?" he asked cautiously.

The Field Marshall was 63 years old, and the most senior military officer in the IZAF. He was officially the sub-Commander-in-Chief of the Military, subordinate only to the Emperor himself. He was an experience soldier, one unafraid at his time of life to express his opinion. He did so quite bluntly. "Your Highness, we could wipe them out quite easily." He sheafed through several pieces of paper. "Our analysis shows that the military forces in the hands of the seccessionists number no more than 20 to 30 thousand undertrained, underequipped infantry using obsolete bolt-action rifles looted from one of our reserve Weapons Dumps." He looked up at the ruler of Zarustra. "We could subdue the island with almost no trouble whatosever."

Alexis nodded slowly. "What about diplomatic options?" he asked, turning to his Foreign Affairs Minister. "These are still citizens of the Empire after all, even if their local government has declared independence; I don't wish to kill them if I can help it."

Waltz replied, "We could attempt to set up some sort of negotiations between ourselves and the Isle of Man government in order to establish and dialogue."

Zarus nodded. "Do that," he commanded. The Emperor then looked back at the Field Marshall. "Tyler, I want you to prepare our other option," Alexis said sternly. "Start putting preparations in place for a strike."

The Prime Minister cleared his throat. Alexis looked across at the Head of Government. "Yes, Julian?"

Desoto hesitated. "Your Highness, with respect, there are issues of popular support for an invasion in Parliament. Many members may feel that an extreme option would be incorrect." He looked pointedly at the Emperor. "As you know, Your Highness, any military action ordered must be done in the aftermath of a Vote of War Powers in the Parliament, before which your authority of Commander-in-Chief cannot be exercised in ordering an attack."

The Emperor raised his chin haughtilly. "Prime Minister, do not presume to tell me my duties," he said sharply. "My government is my business, and I am well aware of Parliament's authority." He smiled slightly. "All steps shall be taken in due time."

Desoto nodded, still feeling slightly tense. There was a historic gap between the Parliament and the Royalty, made increasingly sensitive after the election of the Liberal Party to government and the resulting conflict with the current Emperor's Conservative, somewhat Autocratic methods.

The Emperor glanced around the table at the silent group. "I am a gentle man," he said quietly. "And I am perfectly willing to help the begrudged who turn to these extreme ideas of seccession." He sighed. "But we cannot allow a precedent to be created here. We will try to re-integrate the Isle of Man peacefully and diplomatically, but I want to be prepared to kick in the back door if I have to."

He rose, prompting everyone else to copy. "See to my instructions," he commanded.

Helghan looked at the two guards through unfeeling, uncaring, cybernetic eyes... as he took a step forward, The Capitol Police turned in unision to face the General...

"Time.. is of the essence, I hope you have prepared your Defenses well?"

Helghan spoke, his voice was machine like and mechanical, an artificial vox caster projecting his voice so it could be heard, his fall into the acid bath caused his vocal chords to be destroyed, and so needed this mechanical device to speak...

The General hesistated slightly at the Reichmarshall's unnerving voice, but quickly recovered his composure. "Our Defence Force is in position to defend and maintain the peace across the Island, Reichmarshall," he answered in a level tone. "However, we have a vastly inferior military force to the Empire we just broke away from. It is my understanding that military support from the Corporation is part of the deal that the Governor-General wishes to negotiate."

The two men and their entourages moved to a pair of waiting vehicles, which quickly took them through the countryside of the Isle of Man to the Capital Town of Revolution City, formerly known as Douglas. As they passed through the town, they witnessed the presence of several hundred Militia patrolling the streets in Platoons of twelve, mostly with Lee Enfield rifles and some M60 Machine Guns for heavier support. The two vehicles pulled into the Governor's Mansion, and the group was quickly escorted to the office of the ruler of the new Republic.

Governor-General Dalton was a middle-aged, idealistic man with short hair and a dark beard. He had been nervously waiting the arrival of this representative of the Corporation, whom he had been informed was a particularly fearsome individual. Dalton had the distinct impression that the entire Corporation was fearsome, but sometimes unholy alliances were neccesary for achieving their goals.

He saluted the Reichmarshall as he entered the room, and nodded to the General and his Militia Guard to leave the room. Glancing uneasily at the Capitol Police Troopers in their futuristic battle armour, he addressed the Reichmarshall.

"Welcome to the Isle of Man, sir. I am the Governor-General," he said in as much of an official tone as he could muster. "I understand we have little time in which to negotiate, but I would first like to thank you for offering your assistance in our revolution."

He turned and walked to his desk. "Most importantly, we require a negotiation on military support from Kraven," he said. "Zarustra is likely to retaliate due to our declaration of independence, and our own military force is inadequate for the task."

He looked up. "We will of course negotiate treaties with Kraven as payment for their services," he added with a slightly queasy feeling in his stomach. It felt very much like he was negotiating with the Devil. "So what would you have in mind with regards to military support and payment?"

-Z-Z-Z-

The North-West of the Empire was a flurry of activity, and was quickly becoming the most armed area of the Zarustra.

On the ground, the IZAF Ground Forces were moving troops towards the west coast for possible invasion efforts. 30,000 Infantry were being moved by Troop Truck and requisitioned rail services to established and temporary military bases along the West Coast. 150 Chieften Battle Tanks, accompanied by 150 AS90 Artillery Guns and 190 Saracen APCs rolled through the Zarustran countryside by transport truck, or by their own power. 100 semi-assembled Huey Transports rumbled west on vast articulated vehicles, to be prepared at Infantry Ground Force bases in the centre of the coastline. Infantry and Armoured Bases were being established at Blackpool and Barrow-in-Furness.

In the air, the Imperial Zarustran Air Guard flew a total of 50 Hawk Light Attackers, 100 Tornados and 70 F-15A Strike Eagles to airbases at Barrow-in-Furness, Dumfries and Blackpool. 25 P3 Orions and 20 E3 Hawkeyes were also transferred to the Imperial Zarustran Airborne Alert Command North (IZAAC-NORTH) for surveillance operations and C&C purposes.

On the sea, the Navy docked 8 Type 22 Frigates, 16 Hunt Class Patrol Vessels and 100 LCU-1600 Landing Craft to the naval bases at Blackpool and Barrow-in-Furness.

All throughout this, logistical vehicles moved hundreds of tons of food, water, ammunition and other supplies to Weapons Dumps established nearby the bases being used. In the dead of night, under armed escort, a hundred trucks left different Depots throughout the Empire and drove towards the North-West Coast, carrying several hundred gallons of Mustard Gas, VX Agent and Napalm, both in barrels and pre-loaded into bombs and artillery shells, should the Unconventional Warfare Directorate at the Ministry of Defence be authorised to give permission for their use.

In the diplomatic halls of power, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs put out feelers to establish contact with the new government in Revolution City, attempting to establish some sort of peaceful solution as the Empire slid closer to war with its own citizens.

OOC: Madnestan, perhaps you want to take notice of this shortly after Kraven begins deploying his forces to the Isle of Man? By then, everyone would know that the Corporation is assisting the new government.

FACTS

hi.

i live on the isle of man(seriously!)and i want to make a few corrections.
the isle of man has a population of between 70,000-75,000,and the only (operating) airstrip is ronaldsway airport in the south-east of the island

Antigr

FACTS

hi.

i live on the isle of man(seriously!)and i want to make a few corrections.
the isle of man has a population of between 70,000-75,000,and the only (operating) airstrip is ronaldsway airport in the south-east of the island

Antigr

OOC: Thankyou for your information, however the Isle of Man being invaded is the one off the coast of my nation, rather than the RL Isle of Man. Therefore, I can do the stats to my own preference. But thankyou anyway. :)

OOC: I can already smell a bad surprise for the invading force...if you don't have landing craft big enough for tanks, or maybe conduct some paradrops in the rear, you can kiss half of that army goodbye on the beaches. That is if Kraven deploys Capitol Police. What are your main infantry weapons? If you don't have anything big enough for the CP you might get pushed back in the sea.

OOC: I can already smell a bad surprise for the invading force...if you don't have landing craft big enough for tanks, or maybe conduct some paradrops in the rear, you can kiss half of that army goodbye on the beaches. That is if Kraven deploys Capitol Police. What are your main infantry weapons? If you don't have anything big enough for the CP you might get pushed back in the sea.

OOC: I'd appreciate people keeping OOC Comments in the OOC Thread, which I believe you posted in a few days ago asking to join (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=483162).

The LCUs I am using are large enough for Armoured Vehicles, and I am expecting some trouble invading - I like close battles. I am also completely prepared to lose if that's how it goes, but we shall see. My military can be found in my signature.

The General hesistated slightly at the Reichmarshall's unnerving voice, but quickly recovered his composure. "Our Defence Force is in position to defend and maintain the peace across the Island, Reichmarshall," he answered in a level tone. "However, we have a vastly inferior military force to the Empire we just broke away from. It is my understanding that military support from the Corporation is part of the deal that the Governor-General wishes to negotiate."

The two men and their entourages moved to a pair of waiting vehicles, which quickly took them through the countryside of the Isle of Man to the Capital Town of Revolution City, formerly known as Douglas. As they passed through the town, they witnessed the presence of several hundred Militia patrolling the streets in Platoons of twelve, mostly with Lee Enfield rifles and some M60 Machine Guns for heavier support. The two vehicles pulled into the Governor's Mansion, and the group was quickly escorted to the office of the ruler of the new Republic.

Governor-General Dalton was a middle-aged, idealistic man with short hair and a dark beard. He had been nervously waiting the arrival of this representative of the Corporation, whom he had been informed was a particularly fearsome individual. Dalton had the distinct impression that the entire Corporation was fearsome, but sometimes unholy alliances were neccesary for achieving their goals.

He saluted the Reichmarshall as he entered the room, and nodded to the General and his Militia Guard to leave the room. Glancing uneasily at the Capitol Police Troopers in their futuristic battle armour, he addressed the Reichmarshall.

"Welcome to the Isle of Man, sir. I am the Governor-General," he said in as much of an official tone as he could muster. "I understand we have little time in which to negotiate, but I would first like to thank you for offering your assistance in our revolution."

He turned and walked to his desk. "Most importantly, we require a negotiation on military support from Kraven," he said. "Zarustra is likely to retaliate due to our declaration of independence, and our own military force is inadequate for the task."

He looked up. "We will of course negotiate treaties with Kraven as payment for their services," he added with a slightly queasy feeling in his stomach. It felt very much like he was negotiating with the Devil. "So what would you have in mind with regards to military support and payment?"



The Reichmarshal looked around the room, there was a slight hiss from the servos built into his neck, there was also a slight whine as the cybernetic lenses focused on the general...

"I will not Lie General, I do not lie, We've been watching your revolution for some time now, and you are behind the schedule we had planned for you, so I am here now to get you back on track..."

His voice was cold and uncaring, he didn't care for the people of this Island, but Kraven needed new females to repopulate some of its factories, and The Isle of Man would serve as a good enough location for the new harvest... wether the General liked it or not...

"But let me get straight to the point... General.." The Reichmarshal paused as a valve opened on the side of his death mask and allowed a portion of breath to escape, causing a gentle wisp of condensation to form in the air..

"We want 7% of your female population, and exclusive Mining rights to any and all resources on The Isle of Man, in Return we will deploy in defense of your 'realm'.... two battalions of Capitol Police, one legion of Centurians and one Legion of my Sardaukar Terror Troops..."


"You need the force of arms, and Kraven needs new Birthing Vectors, you will be in a win win situation, and with our Forces you will achieve ultimate victory, not only on The Isle of Man, but also in Zarustra itself..."



"I will give you some time to consider this deal, but consider it well, My patience on this little rock grows thin..."

OOC: The following post contains some graphic language. Reader discretion is advised.

Later that night

The Governor-General sat alone in his office, staring out across the landscape from his window. The Mansion was on the outskirts of Revolution City, so the occupant of the office was spared the view of suburban and industrial buildings cluttering the skyline. Instead, they had a lush view of sweeping fields and majestic lines of stone walls, with trees swaying gently in the cool summer breeze.

It was getting light by this point. The Reichmarshall had been put up in quarters in the Mansion, informed that he would be given his answer the next morning. Dalton had been up all night, thinking and brooding on his situation.

There was a quiet knock on the door. Dalton didn't bother turning. "Enter," he said in a subdued voice.

The double doors gently swung open, and General Macintosh stepped through. "Sir?" he asked cautiously.

Dalton turned, looking at his Commander-in-Chief. Macintosh saw that his eyes were red and bleary, and noticed an open bottle of Whisky on the sidetable. Dalton smiled unsteadily, bringing a glass to his lips and sipping more of the liquor. "Come in, Henry," he said, turning back to his view. "How is our guest?"

Macintosh walked across the room. "Asleep, so as I gather," he remarked, leaning on the desk and staring out of the window. "His soldiers are still on guard outside his door though." Macintosh grimaced. "They give me the creeps."

Dalton smiled, sipping his drink once more. There was silence between the two men for several more moments, before the Governor-General spoke. "I have made a deal with the Devil, Henry."

Macintosh did not turn his head, did not reply for several moments. Then he sighed. "I know, Marcus. We all did. But we did it for the Revolution."

Dalton snorted derisively, putting the glass down with a sharp noise and standing up. He walked across to the window and stood there for a moment. Then he turned to his General. "Goddamnit Henry, this wasn't neccesary!" he snarled. "We could have gained help from anyone, why the hell did it have to be those unholy characters downstairs?"

Macintosh grimaced, feeling sick to his stomach. "Don't you think I know that?" he shouted back, letting the rage in his gut loose. "Jesus, do they look like Communists to you? Fuck are they! Goddamn Corporation here to exploit and enslave our people! But we have to bloody do it!"

Marcus scowled. "Give me one damn reason why?"

"Because they'll fucking do it anyway!" Henry shouted back.

The two men stood in silence, breathing heavily, staring at eachother. A clock on the mantlepiece ticked quietly to itself. The wind blew against the window in a gentle manner, sounding like the rushings of the tide against a beach.

Presently Marcus sat down, looking defeated. With one hand, he took a slug of the Whisky again, and offered it to Henry. The General took it, and finished off the glass. The two old friends stared at eachother for a long moment, both feeling the same thing. They had brought Satan himself to their island, and the only way to get through this was to finish the deal.

Marcus exhaled slowly, leaning back in his chair. "Once he wakes up," he said, "tell that...man downstairs that we have a deal."

Henry nodded grimly. "And may God help us," he added morosely.

Dalton smiled humourlessly. "We're Communists," he said. "We don't believe in God."

Henry snorted, turning on his heel and walking for the door. The last thing he said before closing the door made Marcus shiver. "It might be wise to rethink that right now."

Bump

Helghan was already awake, infact since his accident he slept very little and so relied on stimulants to keep him awake, something that was injected into his bloodstream every so often, and also something to numb the almost constant pain he was in, something else that kept him from sleeping, he spent most of the night reading, the classical works of H G Wells, and often would look out of the window at the little island and its many gentle lights that cast a yellow glow across the towns and villages...

He held up his hand, and clasped his servo powered glove around the village, taking it in his grasp... the little world of The Isle of man.. it was his right now...

The aide nervously walked down the corridor towards the suite where the Reichmarshall was currently residing. He held a letter in one hand, which officially agreed the Isle of Man Revolutionary Government to the plan put forward by the Kraven Corporation.

He paused outside the door, not wanting to knock. He had seen the Reichmarshall as he had entered the Mansion, and had felt sick to his stomach by the sight of the man. Taking a deep breath, he knocked upon the door and waited for a response.

Kraven Battlefleet, 400nm's from The Isle of Man

The Kraven battle fleet had been out in open waters for several hours now, it was only a small deployment numbering 150 vessels including several transports, air craft carriers and one of the “Subjugator” class Super dreadnaughts, each vessels prow rose gently out of the water, rising and then consequently crashing down into the waters once more, vast torrents of water smashing up out of the sea, then cascading back into the blue green liquid below..

The crew of these vessels worked tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the plan had been studied, re-studied and prepared in every minute detail, Kraven would not fail in this endeavour…

The Battle fleet continued on its way, while the spray from the sea lashed against the sold metal decks of the vessels, crewmembers fought against the railings, holding on as the wind began to pick up and with it the seas began to toil and boil as the great power of the sea began to show itself in front of the mighty Kraven battle fleet…

The Admiral of the fleet stood looking over maps, as various officers spoke amongst themselves, pointing at areas on the map, and deciding where the best place to deploy would be..

“I think we should deploy our fleet on the other side of the Island, deploy in secret and then move our forces across land during night…” a Captain spoke, his hands were resting on the edges of the table, while gingerly he rolled a cigarette across his mouth, holding it with his lips…

“I’d appreciate it if you didn’t smoke on the Bridge, Captain..” The Admiral spoke, raising his eye brows and casting a disapproving glance at the young officer…

“My apologies Admiral… but I’m finding the current situation… stressful…” the young officer

“Its understandable… I’ll let it pass this time” the Admiral spoke, smiling at the young officer, he was naïve, probably was his first true combat experience since the creation of the 8th Battle fleet …


“However, onto the reason for us being here, I disagree, although the surprise to the Zarustrian forces as they landed on the Isle of Man, would be high, that would leave our ability to respond to enemy vessels coming from the Zarustrian mainland… some what lacking…” The Admiral paused, taking a sip from his glass of water… “I propose that we deploy our fleet on the side of the Island facing the Zarustrian Mainland, cutting off their ability to land forces on the Island, and allowing us to strike at the Mainland should they choose to attack the other side of the island, instead of engaging this fleet..”

The officers around the table nodded, to them that made the most sense and so was the plan they all agreed on, the only thing left to do was implement it, the various officers now turned and left, after giving their salutes to the Admiral and picking up their various documents that would be required for the up coming War…

------ The Isle of Man ----

The door to Helghans office was opened by one of the Capitol Police guards, Helghan was sat at the wooden oak table to one side, his black gloved hand was resting on the table, his fingers outstretched…

The Capitol Police, took the letter from the messenger, staring at him with cold, uncaring, indifferent eyes as the inhuman soldier walked over and handed the letter to Helghan… as the cybernetic eyes slowly read the words on the page, the servos in the hand that was resting on the table slowly began to close, until the hand was now a clenched fist….

The Capitol Police closed the door…


Kraven was on its way...

Basement of the Government HQ, Tzimkent, Madnestan

"This is what we have long waited, gentlemen! This is the moment for us to show what we're made of! Kraven Corporation has sent a fleet to conquer a small island of a small country (that little separatist rebellion in there is clearly nothing but an excuse), an innocent victim of their despicable act of cowardice, bloodthrist and greed - and we're going to stop it, beat their forces and let the world see that Madnestian armies and naval force aren't afraid of anything, not even the Kravenites!"

Warchief Tamujid stared the men in front of him, high officers of the Great Staff, with his famous (and feared) I-can-read-your-mind-look. The Staff, almost two dozens of field marshalls, generals, and admirals nodded in unison, completely expressionless. It was the Warchief, The Beloved Father of The Nation. The Master. What could they say? He hadn't asked anything, just said what they were going to do. Great Admiral Kundharyan was the first one to respond:

"Master, how are we going to do it? In what scale? I mean, is this going to be an all-out war against the Kravenite hordes, or are we just to protect that little... what was it's name again?"

Warchief lit a big, fat cigarette and inhaled, smiling. He scratched his head and sat down, pulled a bottle of whiskey from his drawer, swallowed about a half of it and belched.

"We'll prepare for a full scale war, but shall not do more than save that country, Zarustria, for now. If those fascist pigs decide to take it to the next level, then so be it."

He emptied the bottle, showing no signs of the alcohol affecting him (yet another thing he was famous and adored for), and turned to his Chief of Airforce, Air General Amirid.

"First things first. We need a couple more satellites to monitor Zarustra, and several to float over Kraven and their slave states, especially ports."

General Amirid nodded, and as she started to give orders with her laptop Warchief continued with his plan pulling out yet another bottle, tequila this time. He pointed at Army General Ogur, commander of the rather elitish 5th Army. This man was one of the most experienced and decorated officers of Madnestian military, and his Famous Fifth was kept in constant deployment readiness, which is why he was usually called for the Great Staff's meetings despite for not being officially part of it.

"Ogur, in your 5th Army you have two armoured and two Guard's armoured divisions, one Separate Armoured Brigade, one SEJEM Brigade, two Border Guard (light infantry) and four Mechanized Infantry Divisions, Army Air Aviation Brigade and a heliborne Air Cavalry Regiment under your disposal, am I right?"

"That is correct, sir!" General responded.

"I want you to have that force ready for overseas deployment in 10 days. I don't think we need to send all of it there, but I want you to be prepared for it anyways."

He turned to Great Admiral again, and threw a TOP SECRET-marked and sealed folder in front of him.

"There's the raport and analysis of the Kravenite fleet that is heading towards the Zarustran island. Form a task force strong enough to repel them from hurting our transports, and get it ready. You are authorized to use up to 40% of our whole naval capacity, but remember that the mission is not to destroye their fleet. Just to protect our deployments." Admiral nodded, and Warchief let his glance to go around the room before asking simply;
"Questions, anyone?"

Great Marshall Siginda, Chief of Army, had one.

"Master, you said that even though we aren't going to do more than support that little country at the moment, we should prepare for a greater war. What exactly did that mean? Mobilization?"

Warchief snapped his fingers, laughing shortly. "Heh, good that you mentioned, I almost forgot, yea... level 3 mobilization, level 1 counter intelligence prepardness, full border and air security alert."

People affected by these addings - Border Guards commander, Chief of Air Defence and intelligence officers - started immediately to fulfil given orders, and Warchief repeated his question, this time without answer, and stood up.

"Very good. I'll go to take contact with Zarustrians now, and expect full raports and detailed plans for tomorrow morning. STRENGTH WITHIN US!"

And his Staff responded in unison;

"HONOUR TO OBEY!"



_________________________________________________



Secret Transmission to the Highest Authority in Zarustra

Kraven Corporation has dispatched a naval force, and it's currently less than 400 nautical miles from your coast. Obvious target is the Island of Man, in where they are presumably going to assist those traitors that are currently controlling it. Kraven Corporation's proceedure is well known. They land there, promising their support to those poor bastards who are in need of it, and before anyone really notices they've taken complete control sucking out all resources, including those of the local population, and start spreading out like cancer. Island of Man is going to become a tumour of theirs, unless a quick surgeon is executed.
Zarustra is not strong enough for this surgeon, destoyring the Kravenian armies and crushing the rebellion in the island, but with Madnestian support the it can be done.
We are already preparing a strong task force for the this, named operation Lazer Surgeon, but your official request for aid is needed before we start moving.

Yours,

Warchief Tamujid, The Minister of Everything in
The Throughourly Armed Republic of Madnestan

Attached:
*Full report and analysis about the Kraven Corporation's Approaching fleet*

The assembled officials and military officers inside the Frederick Chamber was beginning to feel more like a Council of War with every passing hour. The group was the same, minus the Minister for Foreign Affairs who was visiting the United Kingdom of Oceania at this time, and they all looked equally disturbed as they studied the message sent to them by the nation of Madnestan.

The Emperor put down the piece of paper and looked silently around the table. After a few moments of allowing them to collect themselves, he spoke. "Chairman Steinberger, what is your analysis of this Kraven Corporation?"

The Chairman of the Foreign Intelligence Directorate cleared his throat. "Your Highness, if what is said of Kraven is to be believed, and my intelligence analysts agree with myself that it should be, then the threat to our country is possibly the most severe it has ever been." He flipped through a dossier he had prepared on the Corporation. "Hundreds of examples can be found of Kraven's expansionist, virus-like policy across the globe, and further hundreds of examples of untold cruelty and oppression by the Corporation of its subjects."

Alexis breathed deeply, before turning to his sub-Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. "Field Marshall Agrippa, what is the military's view on this?"

The Field Marshall replied with his standard blunt manner. "Your Highness, it is the belief of myself and my junior Staff Officers within the Zarustran Central Command that allowing Kraven to gain a foothold upon the Isle of Man would present a clear and present danger to the security of our homeland." He glanced at his papers momentarily. "I recommend a full invasion of the island to remove the presence of these parasitic bastards."

Alexis smiled at Agrippa's language. The Field Marshall was a personal friend of his, and the Emperor had come to rely on the man's opinions and knowledge in times of great uncertainty. He turned to the Prime Minister. "Still think that it would be impossible to get a War Authorisation Act through Parliament?" he asked dryly.

Desoto bristled at the Emperor's tone, but spoke carefully. "If I am allowed to show the entire scale of the threat to the House," he replied, "then I am confident that there would be minimal opposition to the move."

Alexis nodded, and rose. "Very well then," he said as the others rose. "I will send an official request of aid to Madnestan." He looked around his assembled officials. "I want everything in place for an invasion within two weeks."

The assembled nodded, and began filing out. Alexis glanced at the Field Marshall. "Tyler, stay behind a moment."

When the rest of the room had emptied, the Emperor sighed and leant back, relaxing his posture and studying his subordinate and friend. "We're in the shit, Tyler," he said bluntly.

The Field Marshall nodded. "Yes, Your Highness," he remarked. "But not too deep that we can't pull ourselves out."

Alexis sighed, glancing at the dossier on Kraven that sat on the table in front of him. He then looked at the Field Marshall once more. "I've been reading about the massive strengths in their ground forces," he said.

Tyler looked at the Emperor for a long moment. Then he nodded. "Shall I prepare my War Plans with a mind towards Chemical Weapon usage?"

Alexis nodded grimly. "Make sure I have the authorisation papers before we move in," he said.

The Field Marshall nodded, saluted, and left the Emperor of Zarustra in his own deep thoughts.

-----

To: Warchief Tamujid, The Minister of Everything
From: His Highness Emperor Alexis Zarus I, Imperial Sovereign of the Empire of Zarustra

The Empire officially requests aid in our dire situation from the Throughourly Armed Republic of Madnestan. We will seek arrangements for the coordination of our battle plans to seek the most effective victory in this time of War. On behalf of the Empire, I officially offer my thanks to the Warchief, and hope this heralds further oppurtunities of cooperation between our two countries.