NationStates Jolt Archive

Khaled Sudani stands in front of a map of Gholgoth, which shows each of his 20 Pax Imperica divisions and the Third Fleet en route to the region. To his left stands Serik Teteriuk, the Captain of Althalon's Vzj' Nakai.* According to the map's calculations, landfall in Gholgoth is not terribly far off: certainly only a matter of hours. He is conducting a meeting on just that subject; as opposite him seated at a large, rectangular table were the rest of the Angsiyan's ministers, along with Ezr Sergoyan, Sudani's counterpart in Althalon's Guardis Imperica. A number of marine generals were present as well, standing inconspicuously at the rear of the room.

"For those reasons and more it is obvious that we must 'give away'," he raises his hands and dips his forefingers down in the traditional gesture indicating quotation marks, "our intentions in Gholgoth."

Sergoyan gives the Pax Warmarshal a stern look. "So we deployed too early, then?"

The Haradrim peers back at Sergoyan. "In essence, yes, although it will have its advantages. But the time and method of the deployment was not my own; it emanated from Lord Teteriuk here," he indicates the hulking Dunlending to his left, "and presumably thus from the Angsiyan himself."

Sergoyan concedes the point. "So we wouldn't be needing any of my men in the near future, I take it?"

Sudani shakes his head. "Not right now, no. Once things move along, we might actually have some use for them, but at present tensions are still simmering, and have not reached their proverbial boiling point."

One of the Generals in the back steps forward and is acknowledged by Sudani. "So the Pax is going to be manning defenses?"

Sudani sighs. "Yes, that would seem to be the case. Almost a quarter of the force are either Iteration or standard Pax Engineers, who will have plenty of time to construct them. Azrael, provided he allows this force entry, will probably either have to let us build provisional bases, or let our troops occupy his. I am not bringing them home only to have the same force be re-activated and sent back out in..." The Warmarhsal pauses as he consults a transcript of the Questerian Prime Minister's speech. "What, ten months? Eleven?" He shrugs. "Either way, they've all but come out and said 'We're going to come after Gholgoth in eleven months.' Not very shrewd of him."

One of the Ministers leans forward wearing a quizzical expression. "So what are we going to do in the meantime?"

Teteriuk nudges Sudani and mutters something to him before stepping forward and answering himself. "In the meantime, we've actually mobilized before Gholgoth, and we'll have 20 Pax Divisions on the ground there before they really get rolling. In the meantime, we do everything within our power to ensure that Arda is the driving force behind Gholgoth's defense." He lifts a large finger. "We want the world to believe--whether it's actually the case or not--that Gholgoth could fall to its enemies without the aid of Arda."

***
Damien:

The Pax Imperica host we deployed a short while ago is now only a few hours away from the Gholgothan mainland. Arda believes that Questers and her allies have all but declared an intention to invade Gholgoth in just under a year's time, and we humbly request that our Pax Divisions be allowed to land in your region and begin preparing defenses.

While Arda does not have any doubts about the capacities for Gholgothan mobilization, we have dispatched with our force a heavy number of engineers who may be of use for preparing (and later perhaps manning) some of the necessary defenses.

Further details concerning the quartering and drilling of these troops can take place once our intervention has been approved of by Gholgoth, but we will need somewhere to put them once they disembark from our divisional transports.

May death come swiftly to your enemies,

(signed)
Serik Teteriuk
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f222/ganjmahal/SerikNormal.jpg


*OOC: A Crash course in Ardan terminology is as follows:

Vzj'Nakai - Essentially they're Arda's spec/covert ops but they're a much larger and autonomous unit than in most other militaries. Vzj' Nakai (as a collective, not as individuals) may be infantrymen, tank operators, gravship crewmen or pretty much anything in between.
Pax Imperica - The "Offensive" arm of Arda's marine infantry. It is under the control of Warmarshal Sudani and is generally only used overseas or in some kind of assault capacity.
Guardis Imperica - The "Defensive" arm of Arda's marine infantry. It is larger than the Pax, and is used only in Arda except as an occupation force that might move in behind the Pax.
Angsiyan is the Easterling word for "Emperor" (according to me) and it's Konrad Althalon's "official" title, although some of the Dunlendings refer to him as their Verei or Vereigun (King) with the "V" pronounced much like an "F" as in German.

The screen before him glowed intensely in the low light of his office. On it, information he was not entirely happy to see. Ardans. The people his nation hated more than anyone else. All the intelligence pointed at the Ardans being friendly at this time, but he still didn't trust them. He'd prefer Roanians at his doorstep to Ardans any day. At least Roanians had never spilt Sigman blood.

Snowlander sighed to himself and slumped into his chair. He didn't know if the Ardans could be stopped if they tried a naval invasion of his beloved nation. Sure, when they got in, they'd be given a run for their money, not a repeat of history. He'd be damned if they lost a land war on their own soil.

He'd been awake for three days. Since the Ardan movement had been tracked. He had all of his best hackers trying to find a reason, but none so far. A fucking enigma. A bad omen.

"Fucking great."

At last, he could go no further and slipped into a deep sleep, face slumping onto an aerial photo of the Ardans.

Jaime Wolfe just stared at the satellite pictures splayed on his desk, showing the various facets of the Ardan fleet, some ways from the Gholgothan coast. He hadn't said a word in five minutes, and those around him allowed him his silence, because they all knew what he was thinking. Unlike most of them, he had been in government for long enough to remember the many different wars from so long ago, all involving Arda, and all involving terrible destruction wrought upon the land where they stood.

He finally opened his mouth and took a breath in, tearing his eyes away from the images in front of him to address his cabinet. When he did speak, he spoke slowly and deliberately, choosing his words carefully. "There is no way any Ardans will set foot on Harakian land. Not now, not ever, not as long as I am in office." He swallowed once, evidently slightly nervous. "I trust our Freekish and Panteran allies to keep them out of our bay, but bear in mind that should they come past those two islands they have nowhere to go except here. I will not allow them to come here. If they move out of - or past - Freekish or Panteran waters towards the west, towards us, I would rather unleash a horde of thermonuclear weapons and kill every one of them than let them set a single foot on our shores."

Silence fell throughout the room as he closed his mouth and clenched a corner of his lower lip between his teeth, his mouth almost forming a snarl. "The Ardans will not come to Haraki, no matter what their intentions. Honestly, I would rather they had nothing to do with us. What Damien and Azrael decide is their matter, but we - you, me, Parliament - we make the decisions to do with Haraki. And I will not let Ardans on Harakian land. I hope I have made myself clear."

He closed his mouth once more and turned his attention back to the photos. In front of him, seated down either side of the table, the assorted Harakian cabinet members reacted in different ways. For some it was a sigh of resignation. For others they seemed nervous, perhaps swallowing inadvertently trying to wet their dry throats. Still others, though the minority, evidently thought Jaime was overreacting.

"So what do we do?" came a voice from Jaime's right. Its owner, Vanessa Spence, Jaime's Deputy Prime Minister, was one of those who was too young to remember the endless Ardan Wars, but evidently trusted in Jaime's leadership. She seemed nervous, her right hand tapping on the table inadvertently out of stress, and as she asked the question she looked at Jaime's face, concern in her eyes.

"Nothing," he said in a downtrodden tone of voice, not taking his eyes of the pictures. We do nothing, and we hope that they reciprocate."

##OPEN DIPLOMATIC COMMUNIQUE##
TARGET: Gholgoth, All Nations
ENCRYPTION: Low

Re: Ardan forces

We understand by virtue of the nature of our past dealings that our involvement will entail resistance among certain Gholgothan states, particularly the old APTO powers. Under the circumstances we would like to remind these nations that tensions arose and intensified under Morgoth's rule. Morgoth no longer commands Arda.

The Foreign Ministry would like to reassure Gholgoth that the Pax Army Corps en route to the region is here in response to threats levelled against this region by the nation knowns as Questers. Gholgoth is not being assaulted by Arda.

Please allow us the opportunity to prove these words with firm and resolute action.

(signed)
Tiloka Kit, Foreign Minister
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f222/ganjmahal/Kitexplains-1.jpg

"Crunch."

Amber Fotheringown, Castellan and Leader of Adejaani mumbled quietly. Nobody had any idea where she picked that word up or even what it meant. It was just her generic swear word. "Ah, for frak's sake." That was more descriptive, though.

Set into the tabletop was a touch screen tabletop running Microsoft Surface. While reviled, the ability to manipulate and bring up data documents had made it a staple of the Adejaani government... When it worked. With a sigh, a slap and a touch of the reboot button, Amber brought the memos, reports and rhetoric back up.

In one corner were the Ministers, all howling for some form of apology from whoever represented Melkor for all the various injustices during the heady APTO days, a sentiment generally echoed by just about everyone.

The lone exception was Seiji Kuroshima, who amazingly produced two terse sentences. Amazing simply because he was called the God of Operations and practically wrote the Adejaani Military's warfighting manuals and other bits of required reading.

It can never hurt. If nothing else, a very small step in the right direction is still a small step in the right direction.

Picking up a pen, Amber made her decision, deciding to side with Kuroshima.From: (Castellan) Amber M. Fotheringown, Leader, Adejaani
To: (Minister) Tiloka Kit, Foreign Minister, Melkor Unchained
Subject: Communique; re: Ardan Forces; re: deployments

Dear Minister

As you may or may not be aware, Adejaani has always probably been the most diplomatic and peacemaking of the former APTO group. Yet there are those within my nation who have misgivings (to say the least) about your involvement here.

I too, am not thrilled with what I'm about to do, but it's my decision.

As Commander in Chief of all Adejaani Military Forces, I am hereby granting the forces of Melkor Unchained access to all Adejaani military installations for the purpose of resupply and logistics.

Unless specifically allowed, no military actions by the forces of Melkor Unchained will be permitted within Adejaani territory and surrounding territorial waters. Once you are outside of our territories, what you do is your concern.

Violation of this will result in a "polite" but forceful request to absent all your forces from our lands. Refusal will result in literal, forceful eviction.

Understand that we will probably receive negative comments from my fellow Gholgoth leaders. But we are choosing to extend a small olive branch of friendship.

Please do not make either of us regret this decision.

Regards
Castellan Amber M. Fotheringown, Leader, Adejaani

Ebon Tor, Magna Casa, Aequatius Prime

President Holden Reid stood on the balcony from his office, overlooking his city from almost fifteen hundred metres up as he looked over the communication which had arrived from the Ardan command and foreign ministry. Having no real relations with the nation of Arda since the Republic's founding, Reid was having difficulty in receiving these new "allies" against the nation of Questers, "Enemy of my enemy is my friend... indeed!" The president thought to himself as he watched a civilian airliner make its approach towards one of the international airports. "Eleven months, is that really the deadline to the coming onslaught?" He smiled to himself, "With all that time and warning, it's surprising we aren't launching a pre-emptive action against those Questarian worms." In the end, Reid did all he could do in his current position.

To: Foreign Minister Tiloka Kit of Arda
From: Secretary of State Sacha Novoselic of Aequatio

Minister Tiloka Kit,

The lack of history or relations between our nations leads to an atmosphere of nervous suspicion from the Aequatian Republic's citizenry with the arrival of your "Pax" forces and their current proximity to the region of Gholgoth. While we understand your reasons for the deployment of force, understand this: The Aequatian Republic has no need for help in defending itself from foreign aggression and that those of the blood of Arda are not welcome in Aequatian waters or on our Republic's soil. We will not move to eject you from our allies, as they are welcome to allow you refuge in their ports, but do not ever expect the same courtesy provided by any Aequatian.

Signed,

Sacha Novoselic,
Secretary of State

The Evenstar penned the message to the Ardans with his own hand, and sent a trusted Reaver messenger to deliver the message personally. He felt the small gesture would speak at least as loudly as his words, but angry with himself for dealing with the Ardan dogs at all. He still remembered the war his father waged against Melkor and the other Ardan scum, remembered the fierce hatred spawned then, and fed later by Melkor's attacks on the Allied Powers.

But even though old wounds fester, the Evenstar knew times had changed drastically since the glory days of the APTO, and that this new Melkor was one radically different from Pantera's old enemy. So, he wrote the letter personally, hoping this Ardan leader would realise the personal significance in a non-official missive.

Serik Teteriuk:

Regardless of past hatreds, let me first say that your recent deployment and other efforts have placed you in good stead with myself and my brother Damien. I am sure your Ardan soldiers are as hard as ever, and are ready to defend this new era of Gholgothan supremacy. Gholgothan supremacy. Not Ardan.

Remember that, my new friend. The Ardan era of dominance and preeminence is the past. Now is the time of Gholgoth and her mighty allies. I trust you are not of such a delicate temper that such a fact will upset you, as you seem a strong fellow and now may number yourself among said allies.

To business, Ardan forces will not be allowed to deploy closer than five hundred nautical miles to the Panteran mainland or any other Panteran holdings. Such an action would spark riots and possibly rebellion across Pantera, and it will not be allowed. However, tankers and possibly other supply will be made available should it become necessary.

Again, I hope I have not insulted you, as it was not my intention. Merely to state the Panteran, and Gholgothan, position. Old hatreds die hard, but let us hope that your actions in the coming months and years will reenforce my own fervent belief: That Ardan treachery and chicanery are things of the past, and that we are entering a new era of cooperation and like-mindedness, if not friendship.

Strength and wisdom to Arda and glory to mighty Gholgoth!

Dayne the Evenstar
Lord Reaver of Pantera

TO: Castellan Amber M. Fotheringown, Adejaani
FROM: Foreign Minister Tiloka Kit, Arda
RE: RE: Ardan Forces

Arda thanks the good Castellan for her comparatively conciliatory attitude. While we can't reasonably expect instant forgiveness, it is frustrating that so many are apparently ignorant of the fact that Melkor was expelled from our continent some time ago.

Since we do not yet know where within Gholgoth we will be permitted to maneuver, I am not entirely postitive whether we'll need to make use of your military facilities, although the gesture is greatly appreciated. I do know, however, that little or no port access will be strictly necessary, as we would prefer to supply our forces directly and by air, via gravitics.

However, before shots are fired we must stress that the rigors of war often bring about entirely unforseen circumstances. While we can only respect Adejaani's (and indeed, Gholgoth's as a whole) sovereignty, our military leaders do not want to be placed in a position where an enemy army can escape retribution by either retreating across a border or firing at us from across said border.

For these reasons and more it is imperative that we work closely in the field of intelligence gathering, and report to each other accurately the number and disposition of localized enemy armies. To this end we would like to inquire if we may set up a temporary (unarmed) liason office somewhere within or near your territory for this purpose. The world can see what is going on between us, and political leaders in the Sovereign League will surely not pass up such an opportunity to exploit an obvious schism.

(signed)
Tiloka Kit,
Foreign Minister of Arda
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f222/ganjmahal/KitPondering.jpg

***
TO: Secretary of State Sacha Novoselic, Aequatio
FROM: Foreign Minister Tiloka Kit, Arda
RE: Your Missive

Arda made no statement to the effect that Aequatio needed "help in defending itself from foreign aggression" and is curious as to why the Aequatians thought such a response necessary. Nations frequently intervene in matters such as these not becase they doubt the capacities of the other, but to alleviate the strains of war in an act of good faith. Arda is of the opinion that the nervous and guarded responses of the Gholgothans belies their confidence.

(signed)
Tiloka Kit,
Foreign Minister of Arda
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f222/ganjmahal/KitIrreverent.jpg

***
Serik Teteriuk rolls his eyes with such vigorous intensity that for a brief moment he harbors a legitimate fear for the structural integrity of his optic nerves. It would be foolish not to expect some degree of pompusness, but what really agitated him (and other military leaders) was the ridiculous extent of the Panteran maritime claims.

To: Dayne the Evenstar, Lord Reaver of Pantera:

Your words are (at times) truly moving, and I must thank you for what is probably an ill-deserved second chance; but such avenues must be examined to the fullest extent of our abilities. Already since the fall of Morgoth [ooc: AKA Melkor] we have found new and unusual allies in areas where we did not expect to find them. It is invigorating and refreshing to discover that the Panterans are evidently willing to meet us halfway as we attempt to make a new name for ourselves on the international scene.

However, we dispute your characterization that Arda is weaker for having thrown itself from the yoke of the Black Enemy; whos influence corrupted and blinded us for many years. Our previous lack of foreign policy may have weakened Arda politically, but she is still capable of waging war; a faculty we fully intend to showcase in a short time.

Unfortunately, we have absolutely no intention of recognizing the absurd and monstrously overwrought Panteran maritime claims. Arda does not recognize maritime claims extending more than 30 nautical miles from the coastline, except in instances where an exclusive economic zone exists (which wouldn't be pertinent to this conflict anyway). We can not possibly mount a fluid and effective naval defense while honoring these claims. You can claim whatever you want; but what really matters is whether or not it's recognized. 500 nautical miles is an absurdly fantastic imposition, and it may even be impossible for us to maintain such a berth for the duration of the conflict.

If Pantera cannot contain the unrest that such a "violation" might cause, she would do well to cease idle remarks regarding Gholgothan supremacy and the "end" of Ardan preeminence.

(signed)
Serik Teteriuk
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f222/ganjmahal/SerikExplaining.jpg


OOC:Despite the name of my nation, the preferred nomenclature is my pretitle--since Melkor isn't in power anymore it makes even less sense to call my nation "Melkor Unchained," even though I put up with it in the past (despite preferring "the Five Kingdoms" even then). For simplicity's sake I assumed that Adejaani's intelligence is good enough to know this, and mentally substituted "Arda" or "the Five Kingdoms" for "Melkor Unchained" while responding to this missive. All involved should be aware of the fact that a rebellion took place a short while ago in Arda, and Melkor was expelled. He's not dead, but he's certainly not even on the planet anymore. Arda is currently commanded by one of his old Warlords, Konrad Althalon.

Sorry for all the pictures (especially since two of them are of the same character), but more people posted while I was at work than I expected, and I tailor my character's avatars based on their mood at the time. Since the content of Aequatio and Adejaani's messages varied wildly, Kit assumed different demeanors to respond to them.

OOC: Sorry, Melkor, not being pain in the ass on purpose, but with a new jingoist movement and atmosphere in Aequatio, trusting outsiders is not something the nation is ready to jump aboard on.

To: Foreign Minister Tiloka Kit of Arda
From: Secretary of State Sacha Novoselic of Aequatio

Minister Tiloka Kit,

No overt statement along those lines may have been made, however, the mere presence of your forces as they are to our coastlines and waters appears to us as though you suggest that those of Gholgoth are unable to defend themselves without the support of the world's old guard.

We form our decision to exclude your nationals from our territory as protection against another nation of which we have no formal relations or history with and at the moment are weary to trust simply because you may happen to be the "enemy of my enemy."

It will take time for the Aequatian Republic to warm to the idea of relations with your nation, while we hope to form a lasting bond, we cannot promise anything immediate.

Signed,

Sacha Novoselic,
Secretary of State

FROM THE OFFICE OF INGC CHAIRWOMAN ERIKA KARS
Unlike the rest of my well respected neighbors here, I do not harbor the same hatred of the former Melkorians/Ardans. I leave that hatred in the grave of my father, rest his soul, who fought against the Melkorians back during the APTO days. That hate was not one that was hidden, nor was it ignored. That hate was fostered into many of Illior's leading generals today. With that known, and that hate possibly being passed onto many of our young men, I have decided to allow Ardan forces to use several Illiorian bases as staging points to jump to any main point of conflict. The options for the Ardans are to use the Colony of Burning Bay in the Havenic Region, the Joint Colony of Cravan and Illior (this has been negotiated previously with the Cravanians who have no hard feelings against the Ardans) and the Tenson City Marine/Air Force base. Note that these bases can handle anything that you may send (within reason, as the bases are meant to handle a total of fifty thousand, but with notification that can be changed to double that, and even set up more basings and ranges further inland to handle up to five hundred thousand, but that's not adviseable).

As the Ardans are willing to put their past behind them, we are as well.

[Signed]

Erika Kars

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

Serik, I should not have to remind you that Arda is being welcomed as a guest into our regional space, and to trade barbs with your host on the eve of battle will only seek to strengthen the enemy. A vast majority of Gholgothans do not want Arda anywhere near their lands, and there are still vast divisions that time has not yet healed. Perhaps instead of arguing with Gholgothan royalty over their rightful maritime claims, you simply accept and respect their wishes and take up position elsewhere? Wether you like it or not, Arda is going to have to prove to the residents of Gholgoth that they can be trusted, because history is still very much alive throughout these lands. It is through your actions in this coming storm that the Five Kingdoms can forever cast aside the image of Morgoth, and begin to further mend the divisions between our regional peoples.

Automagfreek will allow Ardan forces into its space, but I must insist that they do not operate against my wishes nor outside the defense plans inititiated by greater Gholgoth. We have defended our island and indeed our region before, and though your assistance on the battlefield is welcome, it is not required in order to save our lands. In this war there will be no Freeks, no Panterans or Aequatians...only Gholgothans. We will fight as one, without divisions or seperations, for we all share this common fate that entwines us all. If the Five Kingdoms wishes to cast forth a new image to those who still look upon it with malice, it would serve well to respect our traditions and wishes.

Your words to my brothers in Dayne the Evenstar and Sacha Novoselic trouble me greatly, for you question our supremacy and challenge our right to self determination. Let me make this perfectly clear, for ages Arda has been in decay, a decadent and impotent power that has clearly fallen from grace. For decades Gholgoth has pushed its agenda and made itself the dominant power in this world, and this is a fact that cannot be questioned. The name of Arda no longer strikes fear into the hearts of its foes, for in the sands of time your name has been forgotten. It is only through action that Arda can become great once more, but sadly it will never see the success nor hold the power that Gholgoth enjoys. This is our time.

Having said that, the Panterans are well within their rights to have as much Gholgothan sea as they like, for Automagfreek itself claims several thousand nautical miles. The rest of Gholgoth are within their rights to refuse sanctuary to your forces, though there are some who are neutral on the issue and would not object to your men making use of their territorial holdings. If there are any issues with this, then you must bring them to me directly. We will not allow any foreign force to act within our borders behind our backs or as it sees fit, and if you squander this chance to start anew in the eyes of those who still loathe Arda....then your men will be told to leave.

In closing, your commanders will not trespass into any Gholgothan nations waters without express permission. They will not take their own initiative should it be contrary to Gholgothan defense plans, and they will treat their hosts with respect....the same respect they will be shown by our own officers.



http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/919/dreadfireclosewv9.jpg
---Damien the Destroyer---
-Supreme Warlord of AMF-

From: Castellan Amber M. Fotheringown, Leader, Adejaani
To: Foreign Minister Tiloka Kit, Arda
Subject: Re:Ardan Forces

Dear Minister

As one of my predecessors, perhaps anecdotally, once said, It's easy to forgive someone at fault. But may we never again forget what has happened, so that it strengthens our resolve.

In private conversations with my counterparts, even my concilary act is too far. Were it simply my country and yours, the restrictions will be much more lax.

But consider this, Minister: You are doing this for whatever reason you choose, to help defend Gholgoth against an oncoming enemy. In this, we have the same principle. We will fight this war and we will win no matter the cost.

At the end of it, we will thank you and perhaps offer repayment in some ways. But it is the actions of all concerned that will determine how much gratitude is extended.

And that, Minister, is why we cannot do much more to help you in your cause: For you get to go home, but Ghogloth is my home. But allowing Ardan forces free reign in our land, we will lose not only the respect, but also the trust of my fellow citizens; and the citizens of all my neighbours.

We will have to live with it. You are a necessary evil, an alliance created to defeat an enemy. If we allow you further, increased access, you will be an evil, a sin of my creation. This, I'm afraid, I cannot allow.

Nevertheless, after reading your message, I will add an additional clause, that self defence of your forces will be permitted. Though I cannot stress that your Rules of Engagement should be respectful of Adejaani as a nation.

Further, a liaison office shall be allowed. Better yet, I will allow personal defence (ie sidearms) at most, for your staff. However, your liaison staff will be permitted access only to Adejaani created intelligence, sensors and information. Shared information feeds from my Gholgoth brethren will be filtered and is up to them to decide if you see them.

I will also note that, for various operational and security reasons, some of our information may also be filtered, which, of course, extends to information generated on other Gholgoth nations' military capabilities.

And one last item on the agenda...

We will permit one wargame to be held, of smaller proportions. In this, we hope to... Extend friendship and also permit our various styles of warfare to mesh and hopefully to work out any communications and leadership issues...

And perhaps eventually mark the beginning of formal relations... Provided my fellow leaders don't cry for my blood.

Regards
Castellan Amber M. Fotheringown, Leader, Adejaani

OOC: No problem Aequatio... I'm kind of being the same way. I know it's all in good fun! Even so, I think you may have slipped some references to my cabinet meeting into Novoselic's commentary...

To: Sacha Novoselic, Aequatio
From: Tiloka Kit, Foreign Minister of Arda

Apologies if our deployment created this impression, but it was not our intent. Our intent, such as it is, cannot be demonstrated until almost a year hence, I'm given to understand.

Circumstances being as they are, it is my belief that neither side will fully trust the other until things 'get going,' so to speak. The situation will certainly be much clearer to the both of us at that point. Aequatio is perfectly within her rights to prefer an operational distance from a state with which she has had no prior contact: we would certainly reserve the same right in the same situation.

Arda neither asks or expects anything immediate. Time, it appears, is a commodity we seem to have. Since we appear to have no shortage of it, perhaps this time would be best put to use alleviating some of the political tensions present here. To this end, it might be prudent to find time for a face to face conference between Ardan and Gholgothan leadership.

(signed)
Tiloka Kit,
Foreign Minister of Arda
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f222/ganjmahal/KitPondering.jpg

***

Illior's missive didn't appear to be a direct response to any of Kit's comments, and the fact that it was addressed to no one in particular gave the overworked Foreign Minister a much-needed opportunity to delegate. Under the circumstances, it wasn't hard for the Foreign Ministry to guess that some animosity may still linger; but Kit was an unhappy man nonetheless. Continuously monitoring incoming communications traffic for replies or acknowledgements did little to improve his mood.

Pressure had been coming down on the Foreign Ministry from military leaders, who began to suspect that the Gholgothan responses were calculated so as to subject the Pax armies to the maximum possible risk, by restricting their movements to a potentially devastating degree. Kit and his ministry had no real intent to provoke the Gholgothans diplomatically, but as the dialogue progressed it was clear that avoiding this was becoming less and less of a possibility.

The Pax, however was still very much in favor of the operation and was growing annoyed with the political games. Sudani and his war council had sent a lengthy set of demands to Kit's office not but a few days earlier, and many of the Foreign Office's actions had been guided by these dictates.

ERIKA KARS-

Arda thanks Illior and the INGC for their attitude, and regrets that is not more widespread. Unfortunately, we are not sure yet exactly how strategic these jumping-off points will be, as it would appear our theatre of operations seems to be limited to AMF proper. Nonetheless, both the Pax and the Guardis will evaluate your offer and make use of them if it's strategically expedient.

Arda truly wishes to wash itself of Morgoth's taint and assures Illior that it wishes very much to dispense with its past. Truly, a new dawn is just across the horizon: in a short while, Eru willing, it will flood the world with its radiance.

(signed)
Andan Rabani,
Deputy Foreign Minister of Arda
http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f222/ganjmahal/RabaniNormal.jpg

***

Serik was a military man, not a diplomat. That he even had to handle this series of missives on a level like he was had been taxing to say the least, and while he had no intention of ruffling Gholgoth's feathers, he hadn't begun to guess the lengths to which Dreadfire and Dayne would go to ruffle his. Such communiques were generally not within his pervue, and his initial letter to Dreadfire had been sent not as a diplomatic overture, but as a procedural function pertaining to his armies overseas.

Looking back over the chain of missives, Teteriuk couldn't help but be puzzled by the fact that his letter had been answered by the Evenstar as well, despite Dreadfire being the sole addressee. Arda, Serik knew, had every intention of dealing primarily with the Freeks, so Dayne's sudden interference threw him for a loop. Its venom was obvious--pervasive even--and he also noticed that Dreadfire had allowed him to respond to the Evenstar before the Freekish sovereign weighed in with his indignant clap-trap. Also irritating was their tone: remarkably confrontational, considering Serik's opening remarks. Of course, Serik knew, not everyone would be happy with Arda's deployment, but he had hoped the Gholgothans were interested in getting down to business, and could keep the barbs to themselves. This did not appear to be the case. Pantera and AMF, Serik observed, were more interested in asserting their dominance.

It was obvious that something of a façade was being presented. Serik smelled fear--fear, perhaps that was borne of Arda's twin victories over the forces of Gholgoth: twice they had stood up to the Freeks in Arda and once a great time ago, even the Reavers and Freeks in tandem. It was a fear Serik fully intended to hint at as he composed his response. He knew that their claims of power were only slightly exaggerated, and that Gholgoth enjoyed a highly favorable military and political position relative to much of the rest of the world. Still, it was a standard that Arda had set, and the Vzj'Nakai Captain suspected Gholgoth was at least subconsciously aware of this.

***
Dreadfire:

Arda truly is a guest within Gholgoth, but she is certainly not being "welcomed." We certainly did not expect vast parades or windy walks, but we are here to render a service, and in an attempt to figure out how to go about performing it, both the Eventsar and yourself have seen it fit to do little more than loudly repeat your claims of Gholgothan ascendancy. So far the nature of Gholgothan discourse has been warm and favorable at best, and shameful at worst.

However, we believe actions speak louder than words, and taken as a whole, the operation is still regarded as a political step forward for us. Words aside, Gholgoth has provided for us a rare opportunity: one we will surely not ignore.

Even so, our objections to the enormous exclusion zones are mostly procedural in nature; and as a military leader I cannot allow my forces to be restricted to such a potentially crippling degree. Pantera and the Freeks, so far, are the only powers I am aware of that has enumerated the size of their exclusion zones (even though as I understand it yours do not apply to us), and if Pantera's claims are the norm, it will be nearly impossible for us to move with even a tactical degree of autonomy. Once again, Arda only recognizes maritime claims extending 30 nautical miles from any shoreline. Gholgoth can claim the entire globe if she pleases; it is of little concern to us.

I fear this is not an issue that can be resolved with written words at such a distance, so I would like to petition you for a face-to-face meeting between Arda and Gholgoth to facilitate the resolution of these matters.

Before this can happen, however, it should be pointed out that Gholgoth--not Arda--has historically been the aggressor between the two of us. Twice now have the armies of Gholgoth marched upon us, and on both occasions the ultimate (but hard fought) inviobility of Arda was proven. If anyone is extending the proverbial olive branch, my friend, it is us. That being said, we realize we are in your home now, but mention must be made of the fact that Arda--not Gholgoth--made the overtures to peace by moving to defend the other in an act of good faith. Gholgothan leaders have many times mentioned the lingering hatred for Arda, but we have been tactful enough to avoid from imprinting the same message upon your dignitaries. We realize that things can't possibly be reconciled overnight, but Gholgoth would do well to remember the decidedly aggressive nature of its relationship with the Five Kingdoms and her allies.

Gholgoth is acting as if an imposition were being placed upon her. Arda is not here to impose; and our armies are here at the mutual consent of the Angsiyan and yourself. Gholgoth seems to be treating our deployment as a unilateral one, and so far little has been discussed concerning operational protocol which (as well as being a more productive use of our time) is what I intended to discuss to begin with.

Please consider my offer for a summit, as hopefully it will clear the air a bit. In the meantime, the two of us need to discuss what to do with 20 Pax divisions and a gravitic war fleet.

(signed)
Serik Teteriuk
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***

TO: Castellan Amber M. Fotheringown, Adejaani
FROM: Tiloka Kit, Foreign Minister

Arda is glad to hear that Adejaani shares the same priorities as sought by us. Things have seemingly gotten a bit carried away, so we have petitioned Dreadfire for a summit and would like to extend the invitation to Adejaani as well. Truth be told, it wasn't hard to expect that some feathers would be ruffled, but we are a bit alarmed as to the extent of this apparent discord.

We have no problem with your intelligence gathering stipulations, as we will be conducting independent operations in that field anyway: in such matters it is foolish to rely on one source, and we expect Gholgoth to keep other channels open as well.

I will discuss with our generals the possibility of 'wargames,' but it will be difficult as the concept is foreign to us. Arda has not had the luxury of making an excersize out of war; instead the real thing is forced upon us even today by the remnants of Morgoth's orc-hosts.

Arda reciprocates Adejaani's wishes for formal relations, and will do everything within her power to see these relations materialize.

(signed),
Tiloka Kit,
Foreign Minister of Arda
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How Far it didn’t of course actually bother the council or Iyanna, this conflict was beneath their notice, except for the involvement of the Five Kingdoms. For now Yvresse interests lay firmly with, at the very least, peace with the Kingdoms. So they watched with interest at first and then amusement, followed eventually by out right laughter.

‘Asuridain, I accept this task.’ Badb Trill-Gorath, the lady of the lamenting blade, nodded a moment and smiled in enjoyment, at what was being asked of her, it was relatively simple, she was being set loose on a delicate diplomatic setting, to bring her unique touch to proceedings.


Open communication to the nations of Gholgoth.

The Council of Farseers of Yvresse greets you in the name of Iyanna the Asuridain.

It seems war is upon you Mon-Keigh, and you bicker and insult a potential ally, this seems foolish on its own, but is of no interest to this body. No what is of interest to the council is the insanity that seems to rule free amongst some of your number. I speak of course of the claims of Hundreds of Miles of territorial waters, and even Thousands. That number must of course have been a small error, and was likely meant to be something more in line with the more reasonable, and defensible figure suggested by some of 30 Miles, I believe this is closer to the normal internationally recognised number.

There are of course many reasons such a figure is the usual, as I am sure those amongst you that received even a basic education might recognise. However I will mention but one for now, to make any claim one must be able to enforce such a claim. If one is to enforce a claim of thousands of miles, one must have patrol vessels amongst those seas, to show the flag. The expense of such an undertaking seems to be prohibitive.

This missive then has been sent to assure your governments that like others, Yvresse will recognise only a claim up to Thirty Nautical Miles from a Coast line. As I am sure you can understand the potential for war upon Terra that involves nations we have fought beside, and against, calls the Councils interest, and we have decided to dispatch a Grav vessel to a position some Four Hundred Nautical Miles away from Pantera shores, and the same again to a position just off of Freekian shores. Should these vessels be interfered with, well…

The Asuridain has instructed me to assure you, that she would be most displeased, and the Council will be forced to examine its options for retribution.

On Behalf of The Asuridain, I remain

Badb Trill-Gorath
Farseer
Member of the Council of Tor Yvresse
Prefect of Haranshemesh
Daughter of Ishar


((OOC Badb is often a highly insulting person, and the council sees a chance to possibly score some points with the Five Kingdoms without really costing us anything. The involvment of Yvresse in this thread will be vocal only apart from those two vessels. Unless something does happen to them of course... Darn I have been told of potential Tech problems here, if so, well, can I talk it over OOCly with people, TG me or find me on IRC as either Tor or Iyanna))

"We have no history with Arda. We have no quarrel.

We have no relationship of any kind, in fact.

For the time being we shall trust in the wisdom of Dreadfire and Dayne, and allow you entry to Tyrian waters - far from the Gholgoth landmass as they may be. Try to imagine a reversal of roles when considering your actions in our lands, however."

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Clan Leader Bonfaaz Burntfur
United Clans of the Charr

Unencrypted communcation
From: Castellan Amber M. Fotheringown, Leader, Adejaani
To: Farseer Badb Trill-Gorathm, Councillor, Tor Yvresse
Subject: Re: Territorial claims
CC: Gholgoth nations

Dear Farseer

As far as we are aware, there is no truly internationally recognised rule of thumb as far as the extent of a nation's oceanic territorial claims are concerned. I cannot speak for my fellow nations, but we in Adejaani have a relatively modest 32 nautical mile limit, extended from, as you noted, 30, due to our additionally annexed island off our mainland.

Gholgoth is sufficiently far from other nations such that our sovereignty, be it literal and factual, or in name only (as you'd suggest) would not hamper any other nation's movements. The oceans are a pretty big place; and anyone with business remotely near our coastlines would be with nations with whom we are allied or are business partners with.

Therefore, your dispute of the territorial waters claim is your nation only; not as a representative of the international community. I emphasise that we do not wish a quarrel with you and your nation and; provided no hostile intent or actions, you may even visit my fair nation's ports and we will welcome you with full diplomatic honours.

As far as an official response to your communique, however, I shall have to quote some lyrics from a song:

You're not the boss of me now. You're not the boss of me now. You're not the boss of me now and you're not so big.

Regards
Castellan Amber M. Fotheringown, Leader, Adejaani

The reply was not from Badb directly but rather her office, a junior Seer attached to a path very different from that of the Farseer.


To:-Castellan Amber M. Fotheringown, Leader, Adejaani
Sir,

The Farseer has asked me to handle this correspondence at this time, as matters of state have called for her urgent attention, as is so often the case for any member of the Council of Seers, of Yvresse.
Firstly then she has asked me to address this point.


Gholgoth is sufficiently far from other nations such that our sovereignty, be it literal and factual, or in name only (as you'd suggest) would not hamper any other nation's movements.


Sir clearly I hesitate to cause offence but it should be pointed out that, by the very nature of this problem currently facing you, this statement is proven false! The claims of at least one state within the Gholgoth region is hampering the movements of another state, invited to ally with you in preparing to repel an invasion. Thus disproving your very argument, and placing the lives of allies in your coming fight unnecessary at risk!

Indeed such is the absurd, and dangerous nature of these claims, that it could result if nations where to obey it, in actually hampering your defensive efforts when the invasion begins, and place your very nation at risk!

Next I must turn my attention to this moment in your communication;

Therefore, your dispute of the territorial waters claim is your nation only; not as a representative of the international community.


Indeed in this you are correct, and yet, we suspect we are not alone in denying to recognise such absurd claims, and in the end, it comes down to this, your allies will be forced to make a decision based on these facts; we deny them any legal claim over the waters they have staked, and will continue to make free use of the seas, for the duration of such claims.

Indeed the very fact such a claim has come to our attention Forces the Farseer council to challenge them, or risk setting a precedent that could have unfortunate repercussions in other theatres of interest.
As for the kind offer you made…

You may even visit my fair nation's ports and we will welcome you with full diplomatic honours.

I must, regretfully decline on behalf of the Farseer, both due to time constraints, and the simple fact your nation faces an imminent war make a visit something the Council cannot authorise at this time, as I am sure you can understand, the risk is too great. Should the threat to your peoples ever lessen, the Farseer might be willing to re-address the issue.

On behalf of Farseer Badb Trill-Gorath I remain

Afrandial, Seer, Civil-Administration
Son of Ishar


In the end he decided not to repeat Badb’s reaction to the song quote, something along the lines of wondering what a Human was doing quoting Krork poetry, followed by a question about if Krorks even had poetry…

Leodis looked up from the transcripts spread acrossed his large ivory desk to the flickering flame of the candle which danced in the window of the Imperial Palace. He knew that this was a touchy subject for many. He himself had helped defend against Ardan forces on the bloodstained soil of New Genoa so long ago in the long passed days of APTO. Such days are not easily forgotten...

+:::+:::+:::+

From: Leodis Valcorian, Emperor of Elara
To: Tiloka Kit, Foreign Minister, Arda

Minister Kit,
You might remember me better by the name my human allies once gave me, Roland, a name I no longer use. Your people and mine do not have much of a history, however, for the brief moment we did meet, it was on the field of battle. That is why it would be a lie to tell you that Ardan presence in the region pleases the Empire. However, having said that, I have also heard of Morgoths demise...and I can see what you are trying to accomplish here.

Trust must be earned, Minister Kit...and hopefully after this conflict has been abated it will be. But, because that trust is not yet earned your soldiers are not permitted on Elarian soil. This is as much for the protection of your soldiers as it is for mine and my nation.

As a sign of good faith, once hostilities begin, I will allow you to transport all wounded Ardan soldiers to Elara for medical care. Also, you may have use of my ports and shipyards for resupply and repairs. But, be warned, your men will be watched and if they are seen moving inland from the docks, they will be fired upon.

Old wounds are not easy to mend...but,perhaps this is a step forward in that process. I do hope that one day bad blood can be put behind us and that further diplomatic relations between our two peoples and between Arda and Gholgoth itself can begin. ... Do not make me regret placing such faith in your people.

Signed
-Leodis Valcorian,
Emperor of Elara

OOC: Tor, the exchanges taking place with our leaders and Melkor's have been solely between us. There is no way of you knowing what we're saying.

How the Council discovered this incident might appear to be a mystery, why one would almost think they had an ambassador in the Five Kingdoms who might have passed on a report to his government that they appeared to be preparing for war. Said report if it had existed might have led to curiosity amongst the Council and a small redeployment of existing intelligence gathering assets, which had been in place due to the many years of warfare between the Council and the former ruler of the lands.

If in this highly hypothetical situation such electronic assets had been redeployed, monitoring the communications would have been a rather simple matter, since only the Ardan’s had bothered it seems to encrypt at all, and they had used a low such encryption, easily broken with merely the use of a little time, something some people might have done merely to keep in practice for more important times.

Once broken the result would have been obvious. Maybe the hypothetical above is what occurred, or maybe the Council of Farseers showed that the title wasn’t merely a pretty name but was actually a clue as to what they where? Some of the pre-eminent seers in the Galaxy, people who routinely searched the strands of fate for ones that benefited them the most, to such a people observing such an open matter may as well have been child’s play. Or maybe, as such claims as where being made, are usually matters of public record, (Since you can hardly condemn a nation for breaching your sovereign waters, if nations cannot actually know where that claim starts.) And the Council merely turned its eye towards the region, when the Five Kingdoms did?

In any case, the result was the same, the Council not actually having much of a wet Navy, didn’t send actual ships out, but it did send something to back up it’s assertions, two sleek forms, no larger than a Tank sped across the waves at an astounding rate, and now they had arrived. Exactly where the council had asserted it would send them, two Wave Serpents, well within what the Council claimed as international waters, but well within the territory claimed by the AMF and Panterian governments, and they where broadcasting their location loudly.

OOC: Cute.

I'm not sure if you know the intent of this thread, but this is a mobilization for a coming war between Gholgoth/NATO and the Questerian Commonwealth/elements of the Sovereign League. This war is strictly closed, with participants only being admitted via invitation by Questers or myself.

Tor Yvresse has no stake in this war, and OOCly no invite was issued. Therefore I'm going to have to ask you to leave.

OOC: The issue with Tor is what the US Military would term a periphery conflict. Sort of like peripheral vision, in concept. It would be wholly separate to the Gholgoth/SL conflict and is a separate, free-standing campaign.

Not trying to approve or disapprove, this is what the intent is.

OOC: Tor and I talked this out, and he's opted out of the thread.

Continue on.

OOC: Tor and I talked this out, and he's opted out of the thread.

Continue on.

According to my records, the ball's in your court. Continue on indeed! :p

...2VX Encryption...
Official Encrypted Imperial Communiqué:
To: Tiloka Kit, Foreign Minister, Arda
From: Chancellor Licinius

Besides crusty old scholars digging through the scrolls and manuscripts of the world's history, Borman Empire has yet to come into contact with either Melkor or Arda. We are, in fact, a somewhat new addition to Gholgoth, and therefore do not harbor the feelings of hatred towards Arda which many Gholgoth nations seem to do so on account of Melkor's leadership. Consequently, we see no problems in opening our territorial waters to you as well as the ability to use our ports and minimal usage of inland bases for resupply and logistical purposes. However, this offer will most likely not need to be exercised as Imperial possessions, barring some unforeseen incident, will not be in or immediately near the thick of fighting; regardless, you are still welcomed to them if you so choose.

We hope that you can prove to our fellow Gholgoth brothers that you warrant the trust and privileges we have extended to you and that we have not merely made a mistake naturally implicative of a rookie wet behind the ears, for if you do do this, we shall join our brothers in barring you from our land.

Sincerely,
Chancellor Licinius
Ending Transmission…
…Ending 2VX Encryption…

OOC: Didn't mean to "peer" into any unknown IC writings, anything I wrote would have been from Novoselic's own opinions or what he's collected from his office aides. Note: Any nation that's been around before Mar. '03 (i.e. Me) is considered the "old guard" of the world in my eyes.

To: Foreign Minister Tiloka Kit of Arda
From: Secretary of State Sacha Novoselic of Aequatio

Minister Tiloka Kit,

While military matters are not my strength of knowledge, I am sure that my nation's military leaders can discuss the coming operational matters with yours and the Gholgothic higher command as to each participant's role to play in the coming onslaught.

The Aequatian Republic cannot speak for its brother nations of Gholgoth as to a meeting between leaders, however, we ourselves are unable to fulfill such an activity at the moment with internal affairs taking our president's attention for when he is not overlooking matters of our military, although officials of our nations can certainly meet and discuss future endeavours between wartime allies.

Signed,

Sacha Novoselic,
Secretary of State

The Pax Army Corps had finally been granted clearance by the Freeks to land on St. Freeksburg island only a few days ago. The force was to use the island as a jumping-off point, and would leave a few division level supply and fuel depots behind in case of an eventual fall back. St. Freeksburg island had been established by Warmarshal Sudani as being the ultimate fall back in case the Gholgothan defense went horribly awry. The soldiers that prepared the defenses there knew that a return to them would mean the end of Arda's defense in Gholgoth.

Althalon and his military had absolutely no intention of that being the case, but in Arda one was accustomed to planning for the worst. Since these were Pax divisions, their primary concern would be reacting to the enemy's moves rather than anticipating and defending against them. Sudani and the Warmarshal council had made some very specific decisions regarding Ardan involvement in that regard.

Currently, those decisions were being handed down to elements of the 15th Pax Mechanized Division by Field Marshal Osvald Holmstrom and his staff. Holmstrom had delegated the briefing to his immediate subordinate: a strict and straightforward staff officer of his that had been transferred to Holmstrom's command towards the end of the last Freekish invasion of Arda. After the Five Kingdoms' victory at Volandstad, the Pax was activated and Holmstrom received an interesting Lieutenant by the name of Nadia Roark.

Roark had been the first female soldier in the history of Ardan arms, and had survived the Freekish war by the skin of her teeth on several occasions. Originally a part of Sergoyan's Guardis Imperica, Roark served a brief stint in the Guardis 11th Armored Division and later Warmarshal Sourn approved of a transfer on her behalf, whereby she had been promoted to a Captain and moved to Holmstrom's 15th Division. Together during the intervening period between the Freekish war and the present, Roark and Holmstrom had worked their way up the chain until Homstrom had finally been named as the Divisional Field Marshal for Sudani's 15th Pax Mechanized Division. Sudani had no small amount of difficulty accepting Roark as a Colonel within his Pax, but forces had conspired against him to grant Holmstrom and Roark their wishes. Many suspected the mercurial hand of Althalon himself, but it was a secret many suspected to be held solely by the Angsiyan and Sudani.

She had a talent for focusing the men's attention--a talent her critics attributed to looking comely in a uniform. Whatever the reason: whether by her appearance or the power of her personality, Holmstrom found in Roark an invaluable tool for keeping his Division in line. The Field Marshal watched as Colonel Roark strode out onto the briefing platform. Her crimson uniform matched the quiet fury of her expression as she slowly dropped her hands onto either side of her podium. With a swift lift and drop of her finger a map of the Freekish mainland was projected behind her.

"As I'm sure most of you are ware, most nations in Gholgoth have prohibted our direct involvement." She remains perfectly still as she speaks. "The actions of their governments speak for themselves and for what it's worth we have no intention of violating their wishes. AMF doesn't share a land border with any other Gholgothan state, which means we can't be threatened from across some border..."

She stops talking for a moment as she whirls around behind the podium, brandishing a small remote, which she points at the map. With a click it zooms in on some plains to the northeast of ULE city. "If any other Gholgothan state had permitted our involvement, it is certain that the Angsiyan and the rest of my superiors wouldn't have hesitated to take advantage of it. The fact that they have for the most part chosen to expel us brings with it a unique set of pros and cons."

She presents her profile to the assembled officers and stares calmly into the distance as she continues. "While Brass doesn't have any compunction with completely ignoring certain maritime claims, the mere fact that we cannot deploy materiel to other countries means that our fleets must assume an essentially defensive posture around what the Pax has already designated as our primary base of operations."

Her left arm is swiftly flung towards the map, with her finger landing on a calculated position in the foothills of a mountain range immediately to the northeast of ULE City. "We will be setting up bases here..." She moves her hand and indicates a new position, "Here," she does it again, "and here. Each position will serve as a supply and logistics center for the 16th, 15th, and 23rd Pax Army Corps, respectively. Being an integral part of the 15th Corps," she lowers her chin and tilts her head slightly to face the assembled, "perhaps because it's numbered after us, we will serve as a front line unit in a combined expeditionary force. Elements from all three army corps will congregate here."

Slowly men begin to realize that her hand was still pointing at the base of operations for the 15th Pax Army Corps. The men followed it intently as her finger slid to a portion of the Freekish northern coast, immediately to the west of St. Freeksburg island. "Upon our assembly here, in a few weeks' time, we will form an ad hoc offensive force designated to react to our enemies' initial landings."

Clamly she folds her arms behind her back, lowering her gaze to the assembled officers as she strides to the front of the stage. "If they land in our quadrant, so much the better-- in anticipation of this possiblity, Sudani will seek to dispatch our Engineers there to prepare coastal defenses."

Suddenly, she snaps to attention, slamming a boot to the stage. Her audience follows suit in a rapid and fervent fashion. In the corner, Field Marshal Holmstrom cracks a smile. "We must remember our role--we are Pax, and any defenses as such should be regarded as an absolute last resort for us. In order to prevail with the configuration of firepower that we have, it is imperative that we seize the initiative from the enemy and put ourselves in a position where either we or Gholgoth can regain it. By the nature of their threats and the disposition of our respective forces, it can be expected that Questarian leadership will be compelled to start this avalanche, taking the initiative for their own."

Her eyebrows lower as she raises a fist to her chest. "It is our duty to regain it on the ground. It is our duty to seek out the main thrust and turn it aside. By setting up behind the defenses in the Freekish northeast, we can safely strike out against the primary landings wherever they might take place."

***
Meanwhile, the Serechav and its ministries stayed quiet. A few new correspondences were made known to Kit and his ministry, but the Ardan higher-ups had decided to sit tight. Until they heard back from either Damien or Dayne regarding Teteriuk and Kit's offer for a summit, the Foreign Ministry reasoned that no new information was likely to be had from further diplomatic discourse with the Gholgothans; and as a result new messages with nothing they haven't already heard were being ignored for the time being. Since Teteriuk had made Ardan intentions clear on more than one occasion, the Angsiyan fully intended to live up to them.