NationStates Jolt Archive

”…in sum, we have confirmed that the handprint on Subject 5301 is the hand print of Carpathia Ziemowit. Microscopic examination of the petal pattern has revealed that the lines were reiterations of Carpathia Ziemowit’s barcode. We cannot speculate as to the origin of the markings, or as to what they may represent.”

He closed the report, and threw the 800 page tome on his desk. It made a loud thwack.

“Sir, he is here to see you.” Joyce’s voice was flat and emotionless… as usual.

He leaned over, pushing a button on one of the desk phones.

“Send him in.”

The heavy iron and wood door to his office, featureless except for the flag of Mer des Ennuis, cracked open.

“Sir?” asked the visitor, saluting at the door.

“Sit” he ordered, pointing at a wooden chair across from his heavy wood and Kevlar desk. “You were dead.”

“Yes, I was sir.”

The visitor threw a plastic bag on the desk.

“This Vetakan .30-06 hollow point pierced my helmet, and ruptured my jugular. I bled out in thirty seconds. It was extracted from the back of the helmet.”

“And yet you’re alive, Major.”

“Yes si-.”

“How?” demanded the Arch Arsonist, slamming his fist on the desk.

“I don’t know. I was dead, and then I saw…”

“We all know what you saw Major Mikhalio, my chiefs of staff and advisors have all read it… and we are troubled by what we have read. It is certainly miraculous that you are alive; your record says that you were KIA. This mark you bear, tell me.”

“Sir, while I was dead, Carpathia Ziemowit came to me in a vision… if you could call it a vision. He gave me the message, and left this mark as proof of the devastation that is to come. There was another, I believe his name is ‘Quicksilver’ of the White Phoenix Tribe, who was calling for me, though I do not think he could see the things that I saw. Carpathia pushed me and his touch burned. When I awoke, I found this mark.” Mikhalio had by now worked up a small sweat, reliving his time on the other side.

“What does it mean?”

“I do not know, other than that it was meant to act as proof that what I speak is true.”

“Major… Dragos… I do not doubt that what you say to me is true, but what would you have me do? Act on the visions of a man who claims to have seen the soul of Carpathia? Wage war against a nation we have treated as allies for years now? The people would crucify me! I’m sorry Dragos, I do not doubt that what you saw was as real as your death, but there is nothing I can do. We will watch the situation with interest, but…”

“Sir, he told me one other thing.”

“What.”

“He told me to open the office.”

“Major, no one has entered that office in years. What would be in there?”

“He told me that he left a message of some form there, but he did not tell me what it would be.”

“Dragos, Carpathia Ziemowit, for all his greatness, was a raving drunk. Before he was assassinated, he rambled incoherently and destroyed most of that room. The chamber has been sealed.”

“Sir, if you believe what I am saying is true, then what is there to fear? The future will happen one way or the other.”

“Very well… but the matter will be dropped after this… understand?” spoke Adam coldly, squinting slightly. He pushed another button on the phone.

“Swietoslaw speaking.”

“Tomas, meet me at The Office in two minutes.”

“Yes, sir. Why?”

“We are opening it.” He pushed the button, terminating the connection.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

The office of the original Arch Arsonist, the leader and founder of the modern economic grind house known as Mer des Ennuis, was the nerve center of the nation, with direct uninterruptible connections to the houses of government, military bases, and several foreign nations. With the passing of Carpathia Ziemowit at the hands of a pretender to the seat of power, the office had been sealed.

“Sir, are you sure?”

“Open it Tomas.”

Adam stood firm, staring ahead. Dragos gripped his sidearm, his knuckles turned white. For all he and the rest of Mer des Ennuis knew, that door held back hell. Tomas Swietoslaw, head of the State Security Administration and one of the men most feared by traitors and enemies of the state, inserted a key into the simple copper slot. He turned it, and pushed forward, breaking an airlock. A roomba, having incessantly cleaned the office for several years, scurried past, mindlessly picking up dust. Still, the room emanated the aura of a time long past.

“What is in here Dragos” demanded Adam.

“He said it would be on his desk, Sir.”

“Then lets go.”

The three walked in, passed the sitting, and eating rooms. The office was huge, and spanned half of the capital building’s 27th floor.

“Oh.” Muttered Adam, holding his hand up in a ‘halt’ sign. He stepped forward to look at the desk.

The desk was tidy and organized, a stark contrast to the discarded whisky and scotch bottles that littered most of the office. There was the ban hammer, an instrument of judgment that had disappeared with Carpathia, and a bible. A section was marked in blood.

“What does it say?” asked Tomas.

“The Lord will bring a nation against you from far away, from the ends of the earth, like an eagle swooping down, a nation whose language you will not understand … They will devour … until you are ruined. … They will lay siege to all the cities throughout your land until the high fortified walls in which you trust fall down.” He stuttered, shaking slightly, before looking up. “It is from the book of Daniel… about the destruction of Israel. The Banhammer is here… it is on a map.”

“Sir…” asked Tomas in disbelief, not wanting to hear the answer.

Adam swallowed hard.

“When Carpathia died, this stretch of land was empty and desolate.”

“Sir… you don’t mean.

“Vetaka now inhabits this land.”

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

“Gentlemen and women, you know why I have called you here.”

Adam Wincenty sat at the head of a small meeting room. The five chiefs of staff that made up his military advisory arm and his eight political advisors, responsible for running most of the country sat at their own desks, facing his seat in the center. The room, usually bustling with secretaries and aides, was silent; the floor was on lockdown. He held their total attention. He hit a button on a remote control, and the image of Major Dragos Mikhalio appeared, as he looked when commissioned as a lieutenant.

“Major Dragos Mikhalio, while taking a tour of duty in Vetaka, was killed by sniper fire. Due to reasons unknown, he was resurrected, and is currently rearming his unit.” Most of the people in the room looked at him incredulously, but knew the story. Adam took a drink from a bottle of water. “Furthermore, he claims that he saw Carpathia Ziemowit himself, who burned this image” he said, hitting the button again, changing to a collage of images of the mark, “on his chest. He says that Carpathia warned him of a man named Joseph Jason Daniel Rogers, the son of Vetakan President Scarlet Rogers.”

He hit a button, switching to a stock photo of the woman, and took another drink. Klara Greenberg, Director of the State Department, moved to interject, but was silenced by a raised finger.

“Scarlet Rogers, as I’m sure you know, has no son. The Deathwatch report that she is, in fact, pregnant. Now, I know you all have your doubts, I did to, but Major Mikhalio claims that he was told that there was a sign left by Carpathia before his death, and before the office was sealed. Director Swietoslaw and I unlocked the door, which we have no reason to suspect was opened. This is what we found.”

He hit the button again, and finished off the bottle. A picture of the desk, only slightly disturbed, was shown.

“Naturally, we cannot go before the Senate and demand that they back us on any attempt to prevent the devastation that Carpathia predicted and apparently passed on to Mikhalio; we will need to move clandestinely. I’m open to all ideas.”

Kaspyr Wojtek, General of the Armies, was the first to break the silence.

“Sir, we could dispatch a hit squad, possibly through back channels or a more direct insertion, assault the palace, and kill Scarlet.”

“No, too risky” Daniel Czeslaw, director of the Bureau of Prisons, “what guarantee would we have that an assault like that wouldn’t be caught? What about a biological strike? Infiltrate the palace or attack it with a chemical or biological agent. Tomas, don’t any of your men in black have a fast acting agent?”

“Well, yes Director, we do, but I would not recommend that. I recommend a simple assassination; a sniper should handle it just fine. We’ll naturally kill him…”

“Why should we kill him?” blurted out Kathryn Nieveski, director of the Department of the Interior, “shouldn’t we extract him?”

“Dead men tell no tales” muttered Adam, intently listening on the borderline sadist who kept the population in line.

“The palace is surrounded by woods, as some of you know. We can easily fit a man in a tree, give him an anti-material weapon, and take her out in her office. Now, to take him out, we’ll need a seemingly uninvolved third party… we’ll need some kind of boots on the ground to ensure that the hit man does not escape.”

“I could visit the palace with some armed guards, either soldiers or body guards; they could eliminate the patsy” spoke Viktor Krzysztof, the Director of International Relations. “Vetaka has suffered from recent terror attacks, guards would be warranted.”

“Just going to throw this out there. Vetaka is also friends of communists,” said Jacek Stefan, General of the Air Force, “we could play on the people’s fears of another rebellion. I believe it would have a chilling effect, thought it would come at the penalty of souring our relations.”

“I believe, General Stefan” said Adam sternly, “you are on to something. We could criticize the Vetakan support of communists such as Wagdog, and play up the destruction they have caused. We could pump up the hostile rhetoric, and use that as a reason to send Director Krzysztof on a mission there, Director Tomas’s men in tow.”

“Sir, Vetaka and several other nations recently came under attack from a radical Islamic group known as al-Nakba.” This came from Katica Neza, Admiral of the Maritime Guard; the heavily armed coast guard of Mer des Ennuis and the last line of defense before civilians died. “We could begin mobilization to deal with that “threat,” and possibly pin any assassination attempt on al-Nakba.”

“That sounds good. Tomas, prepare a team of, oh, fifteen men or so to guard Viktor. Find someone who can successfully take the shot off; preferably someone who looks the part. You can work out the details with the man, as long as he is dead. Does anyone disagree?”

The room was silent. Adam stood, slamming his fist on the desk.

“I do NOT need to tell you what is at stake here. If we are caught in this trickery, then we will be at war.”

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=One Week Later=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Mer des Ennuis condemns Vetaka for support of communism
By Carlos Menendez, Diplomatic Correspondent

MER DE VILLE D’ENNUIS (Reuters) – Director of the State Department Klara Mykhaila, speaking from the battlements of the port of Mer de Ville d’Ennuis, condemned the nation of Vetaka for its support of communists.

“Mer de Ville d’Ennuis has held fast against communist rebels before. It is in memory of the brave fallen of the city garrison that we must turn our focus on communist threats from abroad. Our relations with the nation of Vetaka have been soured recently because of their insistence on holding communists close. Nations such as Wagdog serve no purpose but to spread the red menace, and Vetaka must realize this.”

Ennuisian forces recently made headlines when they seized President Scarlet Rogers during an 8 hour hostage stand off. Defense officials on both sides have declared the incident a “misunderstanding,” and the situation resolved relatively peacefully.

“We have not ruled out economic sanctions, including blockades should Vetaka continue on the dangerous road it has embarked on so long ago. The Ennuisian people love peace, but the red menace preaches violence and destruction. Because of this, we have not ruled out limited military action against communists and their supporters” said a senior defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity since she is not authorized to speak to the media.

Chief Economic Advisor, Alexander Ioan spoke on the matter at the James Gate University.

“Communism is a failed system that ignores the free market. As long as it ignores the basic needs of the people, it cannot stand. Without the fragile support of other communist nations, many of whom are already in dire economic states, a lone communist state cannot hope to stand for long.”

“The violence illustrated by Ennuisian Communists merely underscores this fact” he added.

The Vetakan embassy could not be reached for comment.

© Reuters 2007. All rights reserved.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=Three Days Later=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Mer des Ennuis mobilizes military units on fears of terrorism
By Jessica Leone, Military Correspondent

Citing recent terror attacks in several nations around the world, and increased internet chatter, Tomas Swietoslaw, Director of the State Security Administration, announced that the nation’s alert status has been upgraded to “on alert.”

“The militant Islamic group al-Nakba has claimed responsibility and is undergoing a military crackdown world wide. We have decided to follow these nations’ leads, and are moving on alert. Home Guard patrols will be increased, and selected elements of the Navy are being mobilized. We urge all citizens to be vigilant, and report any suspicious persons to your local law enforcement.”

“This should come as no surprise” said Diane Johnson, senior analyst at the Feingold Institute. “With the recent condemnations of communist radicals and the severity of the terrorist attacks, this move is only natural.”

A senior defense official requesting anonymity reported that Home Guard units have been called for active duty, select rapid-response elements are being mobilized, and the Maritime Guard is completely mobilized.

© Reuters 2007. All rights reserved.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

A man, an ex-ranger, wearing a pressed black suit sat at a mostly empty horse track. It was 3:00, and the races hadn’t yet started. He took a bite of popcorn, and hit a button on a portable radio he carried, nullifying any attempts to listen. He coughed, and sensed the man behind him.

“You called?”

“Glad to see you are here Mr. Berkshire, have you read over my request?”

“Yes, I have Mr. Baraz.”

“Good, as you requested, half of the money is here.” Mr. Baraz, an agent on the payroll of the SSA, produced an attaché case.

“The schedule we produced must be followed to the letter. Timing is critical.”

“Extraction?”

“The SSA has approved this mission. Once you take the shot, SSA agents will link up with you in the woods. You will be given a field operative badge before your departure. al-Nakba will take the fall for this, which has been arranged.”

“Good.”

“Your flight is in an hour.”

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

A week after the saber-rattling, a friendly request was made to the Vetakan embassy in Mer de Noms, requesting a meeting with Scarlet Rogers in New Theeb. Accepted, Viktor Krzysztof was dispatched immediately with twenty guards from the SSA; burley men who were mostly ex-military in non-descript black suits acting as body guards. The flight to Vetaka took eight hours from Les Trois Villes International. A motorcade of cars was waiting on the other side of the Jetway, and Viktor rode alone. He pulled an encrypted phone from his case.

“Are we secure?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Is your man in position?”

“He has maintained radio silence, but we haven’t picked up any Vetakan security chatter.”

“Keep me posted.”

He hung up, and sat back.

Several miles away, Jack Berkshire strolled through the woods, resembling a professional photographer. His large case, which was labeled “Lighting Equipment” contained actual lighting equipment, but also had a false back concealing a hand-made Doomani DRS-84 Sniper Rifle, one of the most accurate rifles in the world. He threw a grappling hook, threaded it through his harness, and climbed a tree until he was 150 feet up. Laying his briefcase on a branch, he removed the broken-down rifle, and attached the barrel and scope. Lying as best as he could, at 725 meters from the target window, he set up… and waited.

Meanwhile, Viktor’s motorcade pulled up to the presidential palace, and a guard let him out.

“Sir, are you ready for this?” he whispered.

Viktor nodded. “No time like the present…”

Half of his entourage remained outside, waiting for the cracks to occur. Though every one of the Ennuisians had a PDW or a pistol, their packs in the motorcades held an arsenal, including a pair of Pale Rider Arms M210… a 51 caliber anti-material rifle.

Viktor was led through the vast palace, eventually reaching Scarlet’s office, where he was let in.

“Madam President, an honor to meet you. We have much to discuss” he said, flashing a convincingly faked smile. He extended his hand.

“Target sighted” whispered Jack to himself, taking a deep breath. He held his breath, peering through the scope. At this range, it would be like shooting fish in a barrel. The target, a woman, stood. He didn’t know who she was, and he didn’t care. As she walked over to the man, he lightly squeezed the trigger, sending an 8.8x77mm round down range at over 2,100 miles per hour. 0.79 seconds later, the bullet hit the window. The soft fragmenting jacket was torn off the bullet by the glass, leaving the tungsten penetrator exposed. It easily ripped through the layers of glass with deadly accuracy. He fired twice more, taking his time to plant them in the same position.

The SSA guards outside, expecting the shots, were armed in seconds, and headed into the woods to find their quarry before the Vetakans did.

ADIA Headquarters, Several Days Previous

The council sat in the briefing room discussing the recent tension between Vetaka and Mer des Ennuis. It didn't make sense, they had always been allies. They had even helped put down the Vetakan rebellion earlier in the year. The ADIA had no evidence to prove that there might be agression in the future so there suspicions weren't relayed to the Vetakans. All ADIA agents had been put on an elevated alert level and had been ordered to keep a close watch. Several were undercover in guard units for government officials, one of these men was Lawson Hart who was working on Scarlet Rogers security team.

OOC: Nope, I told him to keep it open and to bring allies. I think he was throwing the idea around of having it 1v1, but what fun is that?

Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service General Headquarters, New Theeb, Vetaka, 3 Days Before Attack on the President:

The 32 Story Building which was VSISGHQ was a masterpiece of architecture the reinforced building like most Vetakan Government buildings had taken 5 Years to be designed, and 1 Year to be built designed to withstand a huge amount of destruction. The 32 Story VSIS building had been tested to withstand 9/11 style attack and not collapse. Forming the Central Point of Vetakan Intelligence the building was the Headquarters not only of VSIS but also of Vetaka’s Police Forces.

The building looked more like an Executive Office Block than a Government building although only 32 Stories in height she ran deep into the earth going down hundreds if not thousands of meters. On the 32nd floor in a very luxurious office sat around a large oak table three men where in conversation one of them wore a Military Uniform was tall, brown hair, blue eyes and muscular build and was known as Jonathon Stone Supreme Operational Commander of the Vetakan Defence Forces. The second was a shorter man he was much younger dressed in a black FCUK Suit he wore glasses his build was much skinnier and had blonde hair and blue eyes, he was Jack Campbell the newly promoted head of Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service the third was a man whom most people new in a very sleek Black Armani suit he was Samuel Fielding Secretary of Defence of the Vetakan Government. The most talented person to ever hold the position.

Sliding a file across the table Campbell spoke his voice very educated:

“Ok Gentleman on to the next item the growing threat posed by the Ennusians”

The two other gents opened their files and began reading a copy of an article that had recently circulated the press entitled “Mer des Ennuis condemns Vetaka for support of communism” they all read the article taking it in after a few minutes Campbell again began:

“Your take?”

“They are just looking for somebody to bitch slap over the attempted Communist Rebellion within the nation” replied Stone.

“No I think this is something more than that. We all know our nations foreign policy while held in high regard by the population is hardly liked by the International Community. Whilst we stand for Freedom and Democracy we are mutually hated. The Capitalists hate us for being in bed with the reds, While the Socialists hate us for being in bed with the Cigar Smoking Capitalists. While we have many allies we also have many enemies. I reckon we trend softly” replied Fielding.

“I agree replied Campbell. I recommend we move to prepare for the Worst. War with the Ennusians its well known they are dangerous and unpredictable just look at the situation with Scarlet and the Crypt. I request authorization to begin Counter-Intel on Mes Des Ennuis as well begin operations to monitor its Military Forces and begin Prep to set up a Neutralisation Mission against the Mes Des Ennuis Government?” replied the well educated Campbell.

“You will never get that. The President is a diplomat although she is good at her job she is still a diplomat” replied Stone.

The Citadel, White Phoenix Lands, Rogers Mountain Range 12 Hours before the Attack on the President:

The landscape was a beautiful with not a soul within thousands of miles this area of the world was untouched. Untouched because theoretically it didn’t exist looking down on meadows these mountains where truly beautiful vegetation ran wild and pure untouched water flowed freely the mood was beautiful broken only be the gracefulness of the tapper of Swords. Fighting with Grace, Honour and Love the two men fought with skill and power stripped to the waste they sweated a few minutes and one of them disarmed his opponent with a beautiful move. The disarmed smiled and bowed the other man holstered his sword and both men sat down at the edge of the small stream:

“Your getting shoddy” spoke Barber.

“I let you win” chuckled Pearce.

“Ok I believe you. How is she doing?” asked barber as he wiped his brow

“She is the best the nation has ever had” replied Pearce.

“Look after her and my boy” spoke Barber his voice taking on a more serious and emotional tone.

“I will protect her with my life. You know that” replied Pearce.

“I know same time next week?” asked Barber.

Taking the other man in and emotional masculine embrace Pearce spoke his voice in a whisper:

“Of Course Good Bye”

Picking up his sword he smiled closed his eyes and then re-opened them the scene had changed Barber had disappeared and Pearce was sat sweating alone in the Lotus Meditation position in his mountain home high up in the lands of the White Phoenix. Whilst to the outside world most would view what had just happened as total garbage and justified it as nothing more than an over reactive imagination. Pearce had just spent 2 hours in meditation enjoying his weekly out of body experience meeting and training with a man whom had died on the field of combat defending the people, nation and women he loved from the Clandonians all that time ago. Whilst Pearce’s physical body had remainded in Vetaka his mind and soul had asended to a higher place.

Claming himself he quickly showered dressed in a suit left his mountain retreat and boarded a waiting Helicopter that took him back down into the real world and into the Palace of Peace. Where he would soon have his daily meeting with President Scarlet Rogers.

The Attack, Office of the President, Palace of Peace, New Theeb, Vetaka:

Rising from her chair to greet her first appointment of the day Scarlet was happy relaxed and full of life smiling her blonde hair flowed down her face she radiated in beauty:

“It is indeed an honour to meet you Sir” she spoke her voice innocent and relaxed

She turned to return to her chair when the Tungsten bullet ripped through the supposedly bullet proof glass of the Office Balcony Windows. Ripping through Scarlets shoulder she moaned in agony before falling to the floor. Her blood trickled out of her she looked up at the celing smiled mouthed “I Love You Jason” and gently fell into unconscious. Everything had happened so fast and yet appeared to run so slowly almost like that of the Matrix. From the back of the room a young man in his twenties in an stylish suit complete with an Ear Piece turned an hit a huge red button he roared:

“Shit get in here”

Diving forward he knock the Ennusian over landing on top of Scarlets lifeless body he tried to defend her body from further attack sure enough two further shots arrived 1 landing into the leg of the Brave bodyguard the other impacting at her desk. Almost simultaneously as the Big Red button an Alarm began to sound across the Palace with this Pearce burst into the room his E-57 Service Pistol drawn shortly followed by 8 armed Vetakan guards all armed with P-90 Assault Rifles again knocking the Ennusian to the floor Pearce knelt over the wounded bodyguard whom whispered:

“Forget about me Sir, Save the President”

Pearce smiled and began to check Scarlet sighing he quickly spoke into his ear piece:

“All Units this is Pearce, The President has been shot. I repeat shot she is alive. I need medics to her office now. All units Code Red I repeat Code Red this is not a drill search and lock down the Palace, Secure the Grounds, Secure the chain of Command shoot any and all on sight. GO GO GO”

With hundreds of armed Vetakan guards again with the P-90 moving through palace in Military formation they covered each other as they searched shouting “Clear” every now and again this search well stressful was rather uneventful. On the roof of the Palace White Phoenix Scouts searched the grounds through their Scopes after a few seconds one of them a women located a fleeing man carrying a Rifle instinctively and without mercy she fired twice. The first bullet impacted on the mans hands knocking the rifle from his hands the other took out the mans right knee cap with him down and in total agony the Scout spoke calmly into her headset:

“This is Sniper 3. Shooter down in Sector 12.”

With this Troops on the grounds cautiously approached rifles trained on the man clearly in agony eventually they bent down searched him took any weaponry from him and eventually allowed waiting medics to begin treating him. Even though they would treat him this poor soul would soon be interrogated.

Across Vetaka and to an extent across the world Vetakan bodyguards and thus the Vetakan Cabinet as well as the Chiefs of the Defence Staff were been quickly taken from their various activties to secure locations such as Military Bases and Naval Ships. The President was fighting for her life and the war had begun.

Reserved for Response

My Apologies to all I am not ignoring this its just Jolt just ate my massive post that took 4 hours to do and me being me decided not to do it in Word first. Also with it being sunday I am off down to the Pub for a Magnus Irish Cider and an English Sunday Roast. Ill make a response in this post via editing it and ill bump it when complete. My esteemed Apologies to all whom are watching this thread. It will be a good RP.

Sorry

V/Dan


OOC: Pfft, don't worry about it; Its happened to all of us. Just don't forget to use word next time ;)

SIC:

Kampfers Stadt, Kampfers
Inside the Vetakan Embassy

Fuhrer Richtoff was pacing in the Vetakan ambassadors office. He had been asked over for tea, but when he came he had been assailed with questions over the Economics of The Peoples Freedom, along with difficult wuestions about the Strator situation. Richtoff did not have all the answers, and the ambassador was putting him in a tight spot. "Look, sir. My nation's intelligence agency has already compiled a thorough report detailing the economic status of The Peoples Freedom! I can assure you that there are no slaves there or in any of their colonies! They do..."

At that moment, the Fuhrer was interrupted as the ambassador's secretary ran into the office. She made haste over to the ambassador, and whispered something in his ear. The ambassador arose. "Fuhrer Richtoff, sir. A situation has arose in Vetaka. I must attend to this issue. I hope that our discussion here has not injured our nations' strong relationships in any way. Next week, perhaps?"

"Alright, next week" Richtoff grunted. He walked out of the embassy, and got into his waiting Maybach. "My office, please." He pulled out his cell phone, and dialed a familier number.

The phone on the other end rang a few times before a new secretary picked it up. "Hello, Instuctor Richardson's office."

"Hello, get me Bill Richardson. Immediately!" Richtoff fumed.

The secretary, being new, did not recognize Richtoff's voice or number. "Sir, Instructor Richardson is the head of the KIB. He is very busy and can not be disturbed."

"This is the Fuhrer dammit!" Richtoff screamed.

"Oh, I'll have him on right away," the disgruntled secretary said.

Shaw picked up. "What is it Fuhrer?"

"Dammit Bill, if I knew I wouldn't be calling you would I now? Something has gone terribly wrong in Vetaka. Find out what."

"Righto, sir." Shaw hung up. No sooner had the phone touched the cradle than was it lifted back up again. He dialed the number of the Kampferian embassy in Vetaka. "Hello, Kampferian Embassy? It's Bill Richardson. Can anyone tell me what the hell is going on over there?"

There was some shuffling on the other end of the line. Finally, someone spoke up. "Hello, Instructor Richardson. This is John Shindle, the Kamperian Ambassador to Vetaka. No one knows what's going on. They have us in a complete state of lockdown. Rumour has it that Scarlet was shot. We are currently awaiting word from the Vetakan government on this."

Richardson sighed. It was worse than he thought. "Alright, well, keep us in the homeland informed." He then made the short walk over to Richtoff's office. By that time Richtoff had made it back from the Vetakan Embassy. He quickly breifed him on the situation.

The Fuhrer motioned for Richardson to sit. He then reached down and paged his secretary. "Get me the military gurus in here now." That was Richtoff's slang for the Cheif's of Staff. When all the men had assembled in Richtoff's office, he quickly greeted them and got down to buisness. "We have a developing situation in Vetaka. There has been a reported assassination attempt on the president. We have no knowledge who it was, if it was successful, or anything. But we know whatever it is, it is serious. They have our embassy over there on lockdown and their embassy here is in a frenzy. We need a plan of action."

General Klischten, the head of the Cheif's and Richtoff's personal friend spoke up. "Sir, since we have no knowledge of who has done it, we obviously can't take any action. I'm sure the Bureau has their suspected culprits, and I'd be glad to hear them in a moment. However, what would be most advisable is to mobilize the troops. Move a fleet to their waters. Send a few out to potential 'suspects.' Prepare the forces. When the aggressors face is unveiled, commit either to Vetaka's defense or a counter-attack."

Richtoff smiled. His trust was well placed. "Very well, General. Now, Mr. Richardson, your suspects?"

"We have 3 suspects pending further investigation. One is a long shot, two strike close to the heart, and two are likely suspects. I'll start with the long shot first. Someone once told me to 'watch your friends closer than your enemies.' That is why Wagdog is on our list. They may have grown discontent with Vetaka's support for us and the New Prussian Empire, which can be profoundly anti-communist. Recent rumblings have been heard by some of our agents about their discontent with current Vetakan leadership. A long shot, but a shot nonetheless. Next, we have Mer des Ennuis. They are a nation we have little to no relations with. However, recently they had a press release that condemned Vetaka for supporting communism. They have also recently mobilized their army, supposedly for defense from terror. How do you fight a terrorist in your own nation with your army? It is preposterous. They are a good bet to be behind this, although who knows these days. Finally, we have The Peoples Freedom. An ally of ours, yes, but no ally of Vetaka. They hold much anger for Vetaka because of their stance in the Strator issue and their support of Wagdog. Once again, they are a highly probable cause."

"Ok. Well, send out a fleet to The Peoples Freedom and Mer des Ennuis. I won't, can't and don't believe that it could have been Wagdog, no matter what the evidence. Even if it is, we must withdraw as we are allied to them both."

"Yes sir" The men said in unison, and left the office slowly. Richtoff slumped over in his chair, his hand slowly brushing through his hair in frustration. This would be one long and stressful series of events.


IC:


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

Kampfers sends two fleets out for testing
Craig Ryan, AP

Kampfers has recently sent out two fleets for testing. Neither fleet will intrude upon any nation's territorial waters. They are to be testing the effectiveness of some of the newer ships in the Kampferian Navy that have not experienced any combat activity. The fleets that are to go on this test have yet to be designated, but it is expected that the 3rd and 7th fleets will be sent, as the Kampferian Admiral, James Christian, is highly superstious.

© AP 2007. All rights reserved.

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

Kampfers mobilizes Army
Sean Mason, AP

kAMPFERS STADT, KAMPFERS- Kampfers has recently begun mobilizing its army. For the first time in history, the Parliament voted unanimously in favor of full mobilization. This is said to be in response to the growing threat of the NATO-Gholgoth/Questarian Commonwealth-Sovereign League conflict, as well as impending threats from different sectors of the globe. It will also serve as a practice for future times should nothing happen. General Klischten stated that "should nothing occur, the mobilization should still serve as a great time for us to work out the kinks for future mobilizations. It will teach us a great deal regarding the morale of soldiers come mobilization time, the impact of mobilization on the economy, and the effect of mobilization on the morale of the civilan populace." Fuhrer Richtoff was not available for comment, and the Parliament had not released any statement at press time.

© AP 2007. All rights reserved.

((OOC: Due to the priority of the conflict, I'm not gonna RP my Parliament debating wether to mobilize or not. It's my allies. They would say yes.))

Equally Reserved for Reply pending seeing Veteka's responce.

Bump to everybody whom has had their eye on this.

OOC:I think that Vetaka and I are going to revitalize some friendship.

IC:

Shakal Imperial Palace

The Empress was sitting behind her desk. In front of her sat the three people that this matter concerned deeply. To the left sat High Field Marshall Derrick Braun with his head resting on his hand. This meeting had been called by the Empress as soon as word was recieved. He was already reaching a high stress level because of the tensions with North Calvernas. In the center of the three was Grand Admiral Samantha Conners she was wearing her uniform as alwyas when she was on duty. On the far right of the Empress was High Field Marshall Mannstein. He was in the same boat as Derrick. All three eagerly waited for the news.

"Earlier today I learned from our sources that Vetaka is getting itself into a mess with Mer Des Ennius. So far no fighting has taken place but it looks like things might get out of hand soon." The Empress explained to the three people in front of her.

"Well, this isnt a matter to through us into lightly." Derrick said immediatly. "But we should be ready in case of anything, all we need is our slim list of allies to disappear."

OOC:This is pretty much a show that I am keeping an eye on the situation.

Aurum Doman Embassy, Vetaka

Like the half dozen other embassies on the block, the Aurum Doman embassy was in lockdown following an attempted assasination on President Scarlet Rogers. The Aurum Domans had been expecting something like this but with no hard evidence they saw no reason to inform the Vetakans of their suspicions.

Senior Agent Dwight Achteson sat in the control room of the underground bunker. He oversaw all ADIA agents in Vetaka and he very much wanted to know why Agent Hart hadn't been able to stop this attempt on the Presidents life. He punched several numbers in the main computer that would connect him to Hart.

"Agent Hart, what the hell happened? Why couldn't you prevent this?"

"There was a sniper sir, large caliber bullet, I don't think shes going make it."

"Do whatever you can, I want hourly reports. I'm trying to get clearance to mobilize a special forces squad to hunt these guys down, I'll inform you on any situation changes."

OOC: No problem, Kampf.:cool: Although I don't remember expressing the sort of 'discontent' with Scarlet that one might construe in the way you mention, that just adds to the 'WTF?' factor you need; so whatever I did or didn't say it's cool.
SIC
USSW Embassy; New Theeb, Vetaka
Ambassador Lady Uthiria Tóriel Lathíriel nós Farlond, unusually for one so ancient and wise as herself even if young by their standards, was at a loss. Truth be told, she had elements of her own thought that agreed with the Ennusian assessment of so-called 'communism' and its derivatives. However, that mattered little to Wagdog's Elven community; what did matter, as it did back in 1996 when they'd misnavigated their way off the Straight Road to a then-small archipelago nation busy tearing itself apart over such issues following its own interdimensional 'bad trip', was the obligation they had to stand with their brethren among Men against those who would embrace the ways of rampant hatred and destruction. An obligation which, in Lady Tóriel's mind as much as the yet-missing Secretary of State Sir Rilir's, held unconditionally; regardless of whether the humans under attack from the darksworn were Reds or Whites or whatever else. Her people had been there, when all that fighting in Tailville DR against the Wagdian Blood and Soil Party fascists had gone on; and just like Lady Tóriel's band of elves had aided the White Phoenix tribe in Old Vetaka (now Questarian-ruled) centuries ago, against unidentified assailants believed to have been darkfriends too, so they had aided the young socialist nation to both rebuild from the strife and reform itself into something more... sustainable, as they had said at the time. It had taken quite some convincing of the originally-adamant Communist leadership, but ultimately sense was seen and some substance of constitutional rule restored to Wagdog after a year's emergency rule by the time all the fallout from that fateful Event had occurred.

Now, with this Ennusian condemnation along such obvious propaganda lines, and their mobilization for supposed 'anti-terrorist' purposes, the worst is likely. Especially when combined with what's just happened... Lady Tóriel had fewer illusions about Mer des Ennuis' leadership than many might. Although they had been helpful back during the Swan Rebellion, they had also been among those opposing Vetaka and Wagdog in Zanski and Hataria. Although her adoptive homeland would admit to having been on the wrong side in the second case, as it had learned like many other nations through bitterest experience, it would not do so in the first; and had no reason to. They had stopped a neo-fascist king from exterminating a whole minority of his own, and from taking his personal anticommunist grudge to a ludicrous extreme of penalizing whole families simply for operating in the normal fashion for such entities; hardly 'preaching violence and destruction' as-such on Wagdog's part.

Except, of course, to the most-blinkered of Whites; which was why Lady Tóriel wasn't going to waste the scrollery on an official reply which she knew wouldn't be taken seriously at all except as bait to attract still more hostility. Which in turn was why, instead, she drafted the following secure fax to the State Department in Tailville DR; notice of what had happened and what might be going on.

ENCRYPTED FAX
FROM: USSW Embassy, Vetaka
TO: USSW State Department Central, Wagdog

President Scarlet Rogers has been shot by an unknown assailant, and the embassy is under full security lockdown. Although we have no information on the identity of the shooter or their degree of success in harming Madam President, the close timing of this incident with the recent Ennusian mobilization and pronouncements against our alliance with Vetaka are grounds for concern. Recommend increased surveillance and counterintelligence measures, as well as maintaining current high DEFCON and general mobilization status, and awaiting instructions.

General Secretariat Residence, Palace of the Revolution; Tailville DR, Wagdog
Deputy General Secretary Christine Friedrich was not the sort of woman to be often struck dumb. But this time, this close an assault by those who had the anger to oppose her but not the guts to take it in her direction, she sat on the edge of her crimson-dressed waterbed in mute numbness as she watched the news of Scarlet's inconclusive brush with Death replay for the umpteenth time since she'd first sat.

What was she to do? Sit there, passively absorbing the information as her mind tried to come to grips with the terrifying possibilities of either her best friend's passing or survival; or else give vent to the sheer, murderous rage boiling within as she imagined what she'd do to the cretins responsible for this... AFFRONT, if she had her way. Finally, under the eyes of her husband and their other... mutual friend, Interior Secretary Elaine Williams, she assented to say something. "Who!?" The anger was seeping through Christine's tone; a woman about to become a human volcano in the figurative sense, it seemed.

Elaine cut to the chase, a soothing but stern whisper in her voice; something only her slight English accent could manage. "We don't know exactly, Comrade; although our list of suspects is both shorter and nastier than it might seem. First, by sheer coincidence, is Mer des Ennuis; we know their opinion of socialist revolutionary states, and we know of their recent actions just prior to the attempt on Scarlet's life. Circumstantial evidence, true; but strong such all the same. In all other cases, be it Doomingsland via their Manus Dei, Strator with his AIDS unit, Nicksyllvanian Reichskommissariat forces, or The People's Freedom by whatever means, it comes down more to mere grudges. Opportunity is lacking in their cases. Hence, I'll step up counterintelligence across the board as our embassy in Vetaka has requested. Your view of the international aspects, Comrade General Secretary?"

General Secretary Charles Lind, the man probably still known to fascists and Doomani the world over as 'Carolinus Horridus' (not that he particularly minded if so), sighed at the coy look his domestic intel czarina shot him as she tried to console Christine. Pushing for that tonight, of all times, aren't you? He personally didn't go for that sort of timing, even if he mightn't mind the idea itself; now simply wasn't the time. Hence, bury the idea in work talk. "For now, there's not much we can do. We can recall our forces from The Fighting Stars at least; bulk up our regional waters counting in the newly-commissioned fleets, just in case anybody makes a premature play for Vetaka or us. As for our surveillance, let's wait for VSIS to take the first move there; but advise State and be ready yourself to move when they do. We can't be caught behind on this again..." Leaving it at that, he hoped anything awkward could be honorably dodged.

"Indeed. Thanks Charles... Elaine... both of you." Christine sighed a ragged, bitter sigh as she gathered her self-control again. Odds are, the Christine the world would be dealing with soon was the worse half of her: the calculating, hardened woman-of-steel forged in Wagdog's revolution itself. Fully her husband's equal, and indeed often charged with the high command itself should he be off on some function somewhere; not a woman in the mood for much except fortifying herself for what was to come, at least for now. "If you don't mind, I'd like to rest alone a while. I need to think... about all this..." It was all she could do to control what was probably the start of the last tears she'd allow herself to shed for some time. After both Charles and Elaine left, she allowed them to come at last; and to keep coming for some hours straight...

IC
As the two fleets used in the recent Fighting Stars campaign, First and Third, began preparing to move back to Lazarene waters as per the current situation, notice was given to the VDF forces in the area as well as advice requested. The message was beamed almost instantaneously, even as the fighters continued to land from their sorties and the ships to secure themselves for the voyage home...
SIC2
OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: USSW COMBINED FLEET TFS (1ST & 3RD FLEETS)
TO: VDF FORCES IN-THEATER

GIVEN APPARENT SATISFACTORY VICTORY CONDITIONS OVER ENEMY FORCES IN THIS THEATER, WE'RE PREPARING TO REDEPLOY TO HOME WATERS IN LIGHT OF CURRENT SITUATION. STOP.
ADVICE REQUESTED: IS IT SAFE FOR US TO DEPART? STOP.
WILL MOVE UPON FURTHER CLARIFICATION. FULL STOP.

Presdential Mansion, 1325 Hours Local Time
Pres. Preston sat in his office reading the paper as he always did. The news from that day was mostly dull happenings of celebrities, sports scores, or scathing condemnations of his administration's actions in Tatom. One headline in the World News section caught his eye, however. The headline bore the words "ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT IN VETAKA" in large print. As the President read the article, he became increasingly furious. Vetaka was soon to be one of his allies if the UFAN bid went through, and he would not stand for anyone trying to kill a head of state. He knew, however, that sending troops was not an option. Congress had been reluctant to allow military action in Tatom, they almost certianly wouldn't allow any action here. He decided to issue a condemnation of Mer des Ennius at his next scheduled press conference and monitor the situation closely. Though he didn't want it to happen, he felt almost certian that thuis would become a long, drawn-out war.

Office of the President, Palace of Peace, New Theeb, Vetaka:

Pearce's suit was now covered in the blood of the very women he was suppose to of protected now enraged he roared into his headset:

"Where the fucks that medical team? Get an extraction Chopper here now!"

As he returned his gaze to Scarlet the office door opened and 3 people entered 1 of them wore the Uniform of a Doctor in the VDF the other 2 held the rank of field Medic. The medics carried large medical bags as well a stretcher. The Doctor was in his forties, wrinkled skin and grey hair he bent down over Scarlet and began checking various vitals of the fallen President it was then the Doctor began to tremble:

"She is in VF, Get the Defib set up, Starting CPR"

With that the Medics quickly began to set up the defibrillator fitting the electrodes to Scarlets body fitting Sensors to her body to monitor the heart rate and display it on a small screen on the machine, after a few seconds the small screen displayed Scarlets Heart rate via the ECG it was a grim site typically VF. Pearce was administering the oxygen in co-operation with the Doctor whom was doing the CPR eventually a medic spoke up:

"Its Up and Charging"

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

Scarlet looked down on her lifeless and bloody body a few tears streamed her face however she looked up and smiled. Beginning to ascend she smiled as she approached the huge white light after a few seconds she levelled off onto a path again the White Light called her she walked slowly towards it smiling at the thought of being reunited with her dead husband. It was then that he appeared she ran towards him and they held eachother in an embrace for what seemed like an eternity he spoke:

"I love you"

"I love you to" replied Scarlet whilst choking back tears.

"Its not your time yet, You have so much left to do........" spoke Jason his voice calmed

"Noooo I won't loose you again" Scarlet sobbing.

"You never did loose me Princess, now you must go their is so much left that you must do things are developing that need you. Their is so much left that must be done and acomplished. Thats not all. Scarl our Son needs his mother he needs guidance" spoke Jason whilst stroking his wifes hair.

Scarlet knew he was right she simply nodded. They held eachother in this sweet beautiful embrace they exchanged a passionate kiss before they parted ways. Scarlet stepped back a massive light engulfed body and she began to desend her face streaming tears. Jason to was sobbing he looked down on his wife and mouthed "ill see you soon". With that she was gone. Jason turned for now another women had a appeared a women whom had sacrificed herself to save her nation, Scarlets best friend Roxanne Wright. Roxanne had been the second President of Vetaka and had scarificed herself to cleanse Vetaka of a broken Loyalty Oath to that of the Sovereign League and the Questarian Commonwealth. Roxannes face was to streamed with tears at what had just happened she placed her slender hand on Jason and spoke:

"You didn't tell her about Joseph?"

"No, I want you to watch over him and if required intervene" asked Jason.

"Of Course" replied Roxanne

With that Roxanne had disappeared and a few seconds later so had Jason, This war was not only going to between nations Good and Evil, Light and Dark where about to fight it out.

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

"STAND CLEAR" Shouted the Doctor.

With this Pearce and the Two Medics moved back and the doctor administered the shock from the Defib Scarlets body jerked about. Looking at the ECG Screen the Doctor began to charge the machine at the same time the Medics and Pearce restarted CPR after a few seconds the Doctor again shouted:

"STAND CLEAR"

Yet again Scarlets body jerked as the Electrical shock was delivered looking back down at the ECG for the first time this morning the doctor was happy normal cardio rhythm was returning he sighed:

"She is going to be ok ill need to get her to the Hospital but I am confident"

With that Pearce smiled and let out a sigh of relief raising from his kneel he signalled for 2 Guards to follow him leaving the Office he made his way through the Palace and out into the grounds to the captured Sniper looking down on the injuryed man surrounded by Armed Troops Pearce spoke:

"Get him treated and stable, Transfer him to VDFMB New Theeb and start questioning him. Run his photograph through our Photo ID Systems. Get on the horn to Wagdog Intel and ask them to run it through their Database also see if their people can find any info via their Commie Connections. Do the same with Aurum Domus and Kampfian Intel see if they can find anything from their Capitalist Friends. I want CSI teams to find and anaylse that bullet that comes out of Scarlet cross reference it with everything you can I want to know where it came from and whom fucking did this? Put VSIS on total alert and do what you can."

"Yes Sir" came a number of replies.

Although Pearce was not offically part of the Chain of Command he was Scarlets Chief of Presidential Staff, Head of Razgrix Security and Chief of the Defence Staff. As a result he had the capacity to give orders and them to be followed. As hundreds of people set to work tracking whom had taken a shot at the President. At the same time Press Releases where made and released:

Official Free Dominion of Vetaka Diplomatic Message:

To: <All Foreign Embassys in Vetaka>
From: Perry Cox, Foreign Secretary, Vetakan Foreign Affairs

Subject: Attempted Assassination of President Scarlet Rogers

It is with deep regret that I must confirm the rumors that President Rogers has indeed been the victim of an attempted Assassination. However it is my pleasure to inform you that Scarlet Rogers has survived the attempted attack on her life.

She is currently in a secure location recovering from the situation. As a result Vice President Katrina Fielding has taken up Presidential Duties until Scarlets return. VSIS currently has no knowledge of whom carried out this attack however we have begun investigations to identify these attackers.

I apologise for the lock down of the Embassy however this was a mere precaution to ensure your safety within the Vetakan Nation. We ask all nations whom wish to support us in this time of need to instruct their intelligence services to to begin talking to their contacts in various international areas.

Yours with Greatest of Respect

Perry Cox

Secretary of Foreign Affairs

Official Free Dominion of Vetaka Press Release:

To: <Open Communication>
From: Vetakan Foreign Affairs and General Press Office

Subject: Attempted Assassination of President Scarlet Rogers

I can confirm that President Scarlet Rogers has been the subject of a attempted assassination attack. The President was shot once just below her left shoulder she has surivied and is currently in a secure location recovering from the incident the attack took place within the Palace of Peace and witin the Presidential Office. Vice President Katrina Fielding has taken over Pesidential Duties until Scarlet has recovered.

I can also confirm that Vetakan Security Forces at the Palace have apprehended and captured what we believe to be the suspected shooter. At this time we have no clue as to whom carried out this attack however Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service has already begun investigations to attain whom carried out this destructive and unprovoked attack.

I have no further information at this time and I would like to inform you that a Press Conference will be held at the Palace of Peace at somepoint later today which will be made by Vice President Katrina Fielding.

Yours

Don Simulan

Head of Public Relations and Press Enquires for the General Press Office

The Vetakan Defence Force already fully mobilised in response to the growing situation regarding the QC-NATO conflict was fully ready to deployed all that remained was to recall the forces from The Fighting Stars. As a result a message was sent back to the Wagdog Forces in Theater:

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: VDF FORCES IN-THEATER
TO: USSW COMBINED FLEET TFS (1ST & 3RD FLEETS)

WE NATION TFS IS SECURE SMALL DEPLOYMENT WILL REMAIN TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE STOP PREPAREING TO RETURN HOME REQUEST PERMISSION TO SAIL HOME TOGETHER COMRADES?

FULL STOP

SIC:
USSW Embassy; New Theeb, Vetaka
Although all but the least-experienced of governments knew that embassies constituted a 'legal' intelligence network as well as the ostensible houses of diplomacy they were, in truth as well as in appearance, few were so frank in going about it as the Wagdian government was. The 'State Security Agency' in Wagdog was just that, under the State Department; and given plenary authority to gather intelligence and run covert operations outside Wagdian territory, where such matters fell under the import of the Interior Department's Internal Bureau of Investigation. Hence, Lady Tóriel's job in Vetaka was as much that of spymistress as peacemaker; and she'd been accomplished at both for centuries now, in two separate lands and Ages even.

Looking at the picture, of a man who would eventually turn out to be Jack Berkshire despite her not knowing this at the moment, she set to the task with her usual steady dispatch. Soon the skulker shall be known; and after that, only Eru knows. She inserted the photo, provided by VSIS with an alarming but understandable (considering the situation) speed, into the secure fax. As it went through she began to mull over just what 'commie connections', as the request form had (she suspected) quoted from Pearce himself, she'd consult. Not that she had any herself of course, radicalism being vanishingly rare among elves more than a century grown and thus more than mere children in their own terms, of which youth Wagdog's own elven population was still quite early on into rearing its first generation of since the landing, but all the same she'd give it a try since she'd interacted with the other allies her adoptive nation had as well as with Vetaka and the other 'friendly capitalists'. Given the look of the assailant, she suspected he'd turn up eventually, whether found through Left- or Right-wing channels; both of which Lady Tóriel could investigate well-enough...

IC
The Vetakan reply received, the Wagdian fleet wasted no time in coming about and speeding for home as fast as it dared. They were confident that The Fighting Stars would remain subdued at least, although not that they would catch a break all the same. And, of course, that the VDF would speedily follow behind them.

Admiral Jennifer Opalclaw of First Fleet, having dispatched her task in TFS with some relief that their nuclear use against Vetaka had been the only one involved during that war, watched her carrier's Combat Information Center with the half-relaxed air of someone taking advantage of what time remained. Why do I suspect there isn't much left?... Hence, nothing for a practical woman of any species, were or no, to do but 'decompress' as best as a flag officer charged with a combatant command could. As more fighters catapulted off to relieve the ones landing from the standard-readiness CAPs over the two USSW fleets (First and Third) heading out, the reply had been sent automatically and almost without the Admiral's notice even; it not really being needed in a Navy where initiative was allowed, after all.

SIC2
OBSAT SECURE BATTLEFIELD COMMUNICATION
FROM: USSW COMBINED FLEET TFS (1ST & 3RD FLEETS)
TO: VDF FORCES IN TFS THEATER

NO NEED FOR PERMISSION, ALTHOUGH SUCH IS GRANTED. STOP.
LET'S HURRY HOME; IT'S LOOKING STORMY ENOUGH RIGHT NOW EVEN WITH TFS DEFEATED, AND WE NEED TO BE READY. FULL STOP.

((OOC: Wow, this RP is shaping up to be a great one. The quality of the writing so far has rocked!))

SIC:

Kampfers Stadt, Kampfers
Inside the KIB Laboratories

Bill Richardson and Fuhrer Richtoff rushed inside the three story building. It looked antiquated, a little run down perhaps. No one would ever suspect this building to be home to of the top forensic lab in Kampfers. It was best that way. It kept the media away, and it kept families happy knowing that their father/brother/son/husband worked at a nursing home. Richtoff and Richardson needed no identification, yet they flashed their cards none the less. Both men had acess to level "Q" material, the highest rating as of yet in Kampfers. This was damn near the top. They reached the elevator at the end of the long hall. Richardson pushed in the call elevator button, and held it in for 2 seconds. In that short time, the highly sensitive button had checked his fingerprint, and taken a small blood sample and checked his DNA. Finding all to be good, the elevator doors briskly opened. Richardson and Richtoff got in. On the inside, a camera used its facial recognition software and made sure both were cleared. The doors shut, and they began the slow ride up to the third floor.

The elevator was rather old, and creaked a bit. Richardson, the older of the pair, had mellowed out a bit. "So Eric, what do you figure you'll do when you are no longer the Fuhrer. And when do you expect to give up your chair?"

Richtoff, still a young man, was quite amused by the question. "No longer the Fuhrer? Hah, I'm going to be the Fuhrer my whole life!" He laughed off the question, but in fact, it had crossed his mind numerous times previously. He had no clue what he would do, but he would find something. If he survived his rule. He always feared a gruesome death.

The elevator slowed to a stop as it reached the top floor. The doors opened, and both men exited. They walked down a "clean" hall, but passed up the "clean" suits. The area would be cleaned when they left, and the tests had already been finished. They walked into the lab. Standing behind a table was Head Scientist of the KIB, Randy Fowler. He was a brilliant man, but one of rough appearance. He had long gray hair, and wore a grizzled look. "Good afternoon, gentlemen. Welcome to the lab."

"Thank you" responded Richardson. "Can you give the Fuhrer here the rundown on the situation?"

"Yes sir!" exclaimed Fowler, as if he just recognized who Richardson's guest was. "All Vetaka originally sent us was the picture and prints of the suspect. Upon further request, we were able to obtain a cast of the bullet in the president and a cast of the inside of the barrel. As you can see, the rifling grooves are identical. Thus we can confirm that the bullet was fired from this gun. However, that adds nothing for us other than confirming the shooter. Until you realize that The Peoples Freedom does not use Doomani weaponry. That takes them off our list of possible suspects. The man who fired the rifle is practically invisible. We checked his records, cros checked his records, cross referrenced him, called his closest relatives, everything checks out with no relations with any government and no criminal history. Whoever pieced this idea together was a pro. However, his background in several countries only adds more nations. Doomingsland is the most likely of the new additions. However, it is hard to believe that they would be foolish enough to use their own weaponry."

Shaw laughed breifly. "We've seen worse though. OK, Fuhrer, you heard the man. What's our course of action?"

Richtoff pondered it for a moment before speaking. "Move our fleet off of The Peoples Freedom to Vetaka. Keep our fleet near Mer des Ennuis there. God save us all."

SIC2:

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: KAMPFERIAN THIRD FLEET
TO: VDF HIGH COMMAND

HAVE REMOVED TPF FROM POSSIBLE SUSPECT LIST. STOP.
SURVEILLANCE OF TPF IS EFFECTIVELY OVER. STOP.
REQUEST TO MOVE KAMPFERIAN THIRD FLEET TO VETAKAN WATERS FOR DEFENSIVE AID. STOP.
WILL MOVE UPON RECIEVING PERMISSION. FULL STOP.

Reply coming when I'm not at work anymore...

War Room, Presdential Mansion, 1500 Hours Local Time
The JCS gathered as ordered by the President, wondering what was going to happen. The most recent press conference had condemned Mre des Ennius for the assassination attempt on the Vetakan President but offered no indication of military action. The would just have to wait to see what the President proposed.

Pres. Preston entered the room, and all the military officials stood up as was custom to acknowledge the President as commander-in-cheif. "Be seated," Preston said automatically. "Gentleman, this incident appears to be escalating. While our Congress is reluctant to do anything, the fact stands that as a member-state of UFAN, we are obliged to aid our Vetakan brothers. For that reason, I propose that we send a naval force." The JCS looked at each other and the President, trying to read the reactions of their colleagues. "Well, sir, which fleet do you suggest we send?," Adm. Kowalski said. "That's what I can't decide. 1st Fleet is our strongest, but they've been active in Tatom for awhile. 2nd Fleet has no experience in battle but on paper they're pretty strong." "I'd suggest sending 2nd and having them link up with another, larger, fleet," Kowalski said. "Sounds good to me," Preston replied, "Send the telegram to 2nd Fleet with their orders, and telegram Kampfers to see if they'll mind taking our guys under their wing."

To: Prestonian Navy 2nd Fleet
From: Naval High Command
Subject: Orders
SECURE TRANSMISSION

You will proceed to Vetakan waters Stop.
May possibly link up with Kampferian 3rd Fleet Stop.
Signal ahead to prevent friendly fire stop.

To: Kampferian 3rd Fleet
From: Prestonian Naval Hugh Command
Subject: Rondezvous?
SECURE TRANSMISSION

We would like to have our 2nd Fleet rondezvous with your fleet stop.
Fleet will be under your command for the duration of the exercise stop.
Have instructed fleet commander to radio ahead and confirm position and number of ships to prevent friendly fire stop.

((OOC: You don't know it was Mer des Ennuis yet. And also, you wouldn't know my 3rd fleet was going to Vetaka. But I can deal with it. You are a pretty good noob. I'd like to think I was the same, but Wagdog might tell you otherwise ;)))

SIC:

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: KAMPFERIAN THIRD FLEET
TO: PRESTONIAN NAVAL HIGH COMMAND

RENDEZVOUS CONFIRMED. STOP.
RELAYING COORDINATES. STOP.
WILL HOLD UNITL RENDEZVOUS IS COMPLETE. STOP.
WE APPRECIATE THE EXTRA FIREPOWER. FULL STOP.

SIC 2:

Richtoff walked into his office. As he passed his secretary, she made a passing comment to him. "Some man came by and dropped a letter off for you. The boys checked it out. It came back clean."

"Thanks" muttered Richtoff, not thinking much of it. He sat down in his cahir, and logged on to his compter. While he waited for the applications to pop up, he examined the letter. He was crestfallen when he saw the name that had signed it at the bottom.
Dear Mr. Richtoff,

Now comes the time when you choose sides. Do you fight against communism and everything it stands for? Or do you side with Vetaka and protect the communists of Wagdog? This letter only serves to remind you of our arrangement. I did my part. Now is the time for you to do yours.

Sincerely,
Marx's Downfall
Richtoff threw aside the letter. Thinking better of it, he retrieved the letter and shredded it neatly into the garbage can. He would not, could not abandon his allies. No matter what that evil man threatened.

OOC: Thanks Kamp, I'm still getting the hang of RPing. I think I've figured out the whole "things I know ICly vs. things I know OOCly" pretty well. From now on, I'll assume that anything not addressed to me/intercepted is unknown ICly.

IC: 2nd Fleet steamed along for two days before getting within sight of the Kampferian fleet. It was 3:30 A.M. local time when the lookout aboard the flagship CPS Liberty finally spotted the outlines of the Kampferian fleet. "Admiral Martin, I've spotted the Kampferians," the lookout shouted emphatically. "Good, now find their channel so I can announce our fleet," Adm. Martin responded. After some searching, the officer of the deck found the Kampferian Navy's channel. "Kampferian 3rd Fleet, this is Adm. Jason Martin, Fleet Commander of Prestonian Navy 2nd Fleet. Sorry to wake you guys up, but we're here. We've been informed that we'll be under your command for the duration of our exercise. Request to speak to fleet commander ASAP to recieve further orders, over." Martin hung up the radio's reciever and went back to the instrument panel. Pushing a button to activate the intercom, he spoke smoothly and clearly into the speaker. "All hands, hoist the flag and man the rails, let's give the Kampferians a welcome Central Prestonia style." Within minutes, the Naval Ensign was flying from the flagpoles of every ship and all the enlisted sailors were topside to greet the Kampferian Navy.

Octogon Command Centre
Things were normal for the Animarnia Command; a dull day. Suddenly things started to take on a life of their own as a storm raised its ugly head media reports on the local Vetekan news channels monitored by Animarnia MoD started broadcasting about shots fired at the peace palace. After a while the major news networks started to pick up the story. It was a nightmare; the AIA didn't have any agents in Veteka after all they were good allies and Animarnia don't spy on their own allies and friends. This was going to be a bad day.

AIA Building
An office in Lilica City; a huge sprawling sky scraper covered in Solar Glass and hardened against a 747 crashing into it in a full nose dive that was home to the AIA also known as the Animarnia Intelligence Agency. Though hidden deep within its bowls was to few people a department known as the AED or Animarnian Enforcement Division.

The carpet in the office was crimson red almost like blood and the office was dark and expansive with a sold marble desk sat at one end of the room with a lone man behind it; he was George Black the official head of the AED. George was old in his late 40's to early 50's though now one really knew for sure. Agent Ikari often called him "the old bastard" of course Agent Ikari was also sleeping with most of the female staff to the point that "Pulling an Ikari" was the new Office term for orgy.

George wore the dark suit and had grey hair he sat with his hand brought up into a bridge eyeing a young officer who was visibly intimidated as he handed Black a file. The file itself was off yellow and had red markings along its border; decorating the front were words like "Classified" and "eyes only". It was a report on the potential suspects of the assassination attempt. The list was surprisingly longer than Black expected; it was true that Veteka had a number of good friends but it also had enemies.

Top of the list was Clandonia mainly because of the war the two fought and Clandonians were known to hold grudges. Second was Mer des Ennuis because of there recent Anti-Veteka and 'die pinko commie, die' rhetoric; TPF was omitted because there military infalstructure was completely obliterated…again. Next on the list was Strator it was no secret that Strator hated Veteka for its Anti-slavery stance. Kanpfers was also on the list mostly because Animarnians didn't trust them and secondly because of its stance during the TPF war and its withdrawal from UFAN though Animarnia itself wasn't a member of UFAN despite being a stanch ally of Veteka.

"Do you know how this was carried out" Black said quickly.

"Sir, we have no direct access but our Tech heads believe that an Anti-materiel rifle was used possibly 20x199 mm; the bullet would have to be fired from less than 400 meters to puncher the hardened bullet proof glass and hit Miss Rogers in the shoulder; the Media reports that they have arrested the shooter but this is unconfirmed by Vetekan authorities." The man replied.

"Step up Intelligence on these nations; Tell Agent Ikari that his services may be required; Put Genesis and Saviour on alert" Black ordered and the man departed with a visible sigh of relief Ikari may be a sociopath but he was no where near as scary as Black. Black picked up the Red Phone that only had one number permanently programmed into it; a direct un-interuptable encrypted line direct to the president.

Presidents Office
Rene picked up the Red phone on the second ring. "Shondel, speak" she said quickly.

"So its true then…" she said in disbelief; the assassination attempt was all over the news networks now in both Animarnia and Veteka Rene didn't know what to believe that her friend could be shot though several inches of bullet proof glass; "So your handing the operation to the AIA?" Rene nodded; "a good precaution…" Rene said simply.

She put the phone down and picked up another Red Phone and pressed another button on it "Air Force One; I want to take off within the hour" Rene said with a pause "I'm going to Veteka; Arrange Security " she said simply knowing that her orders would be carried out

Encrypted Code: RED
To: The Acting President, The Office of President Scarlet Rogers,
From: President Rene Shondel, Office of Animarnia Presidency
It is with the deepest sympathy I write this letter to you; you have Animarnia's Full support in this matter and our National intelligence Agencies and Homeland Security are at your disposal for the duration until we find those responsible for this despicable crime. With your permission I have already put into motion the necessary requirements to visit Veteka and Scarlet Personally. You may be concerned about my safety but I assure you I can take care of myself and would like to Visit Scarlet if possible. The HMS Alexia DeLèan and her battle fleet are still close to Veteka on standard patrol routes; I put them at your disposal


(OOC: V Basically…if you want to use my carrier group you can RP it to keep the flow going or I can; Cain is the same Woman that was involved in the Swan incident. She's very British Old Navy; likes to give her enemies a bloody nose and doesn’t back down)

“Gentlemen, what the HOLY FUCKING SHIT happened?” screamed Adam Wincenty, slamming his fist into the mahogany writing desk he stood behind, leaving a dent. His beret flew off from the shock. Everyone was silent, and Tomas Swietoslaw was sweating for what was quite possibly the first time in his life.

“I gave you one simple fucking objective… kill Scarlet Rogers, save the Goddamned world, and kill the stupid fuck who we got to do it…” He paused, wiping his face. “FUCK!” He pulled his sidearm out of its holster, cocked it, and aimed at Swietoslaw. “Tell me Tomas, who the ever loving fuck are you employing in the SSA? A bunch of fucking girl scouts? Are you a motherfuckinggirlscout?” he raged, veins bulging. “Goddamnit to fucking hell!”

Aides were running around the outside of the soundproofed meeting room, relaying messages over closed-circuit audio systems to their bosses.

“Uh, sir, they don’t know it was us” finally spoke Tomas, holding his ear piece closer to his ear.

“And what makes you so fucking sure of that Tomas? They have that miserable fucking peon in custody… I read it in the fucking Daily Star.”

“His only contact was a member of my Agency, a mid-ranking man.”

“They have the fucking gun Tomas, the serial number will trace! And this man will break, the Vetakans are sadists. They will stop at nothing once he names us. We will need to delay as long as possible.”

“Sir, I’ve already shipped off two pounds of conflict diamonds and five bullion bars from one of my slush funds to contacts in the Doomani Senate. My contact informs me that the records are now sealed. The Vetakans and any member of their intelligence agency will only know that that particular gun comes from Doomingsland, but not that we bought it or that Jack Berkshire fired it.”

Adam paused, still holding the gun, and took a breath. “You saved your life Tomas… for now. Gentlemen, we need damage control, and fast. It is only a matter of time before the assassin is traced back to us. What is the international community doing?”

The Arch Arsonist was noticeably calmer now, no longer feeling the need to execute half his cabinet.

“Sir, our OTH early-warning radar is picking up a fleet from what we believe to be Kamphers, heading towards Ville de Mort. SIGINT has confirmed this.” solemnly reported Admiral of the Maritime Guard, Katica Neza. “We can’t be sure how many ships they are sending, but they claim to be on shakedown maneuvers.”

“What would you like to do?” snapped Adam, in a flash.

“Sir, I would like to deploy the Ville de la Mort guard fleet to the edge of our territorial waters, and I would like to ready the Khan batteries. The Defense Guns will be manned as well; they are in need of calibration.”

Adam thought for a second. “Done. We have nothing to explain, they can contact us first. Defense protocol 2.” With that, Admiral Neza started hurriedly barking hushed orders into her microphone. The fleet, 132 ships strong and already ready to deploy, would steam within the hour for five-hundred nautical miles to the edge of the declared territorial waters of Mer des Ennuis.

“Sir, we have shut down the Exodus satellites, and are targeting the OBSAT systems of Vetaka and her allies. The Airforce, as always, is ready for deployment, and the strategic bomber force is waiting.”

“Thank you General Stefan. We need to deflect attention from our government, and justify the military build up. I’ll write a letter of condolence to the Vetakan government and send a fruit basket. Everyone likes fruit, right?”

No one dared disagree.

“A rifle company will be dispatched to the Vetakan Embassy, along with an assault company. I will not have them conducting any intelligence from that fortress. We will need to justify this…”

“Sir, might I suggest we capture a bunch of communist and Islamic radicals? We can spin this to justify increased security and counter intelligence, and we could use it to paint Berkshire as an extremist, attempting to kill both Scarlet and Viktor.”

”Sounds like a plan… General Wojtek, Director Swietoslaw, handle this. Do not fail again. We are done here.”

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Terror raid turns up suspects
By Jessica White
http://www.geocities.com/vajoewebsite/Army/CSA-2006-08-18-092406.jpg
Above: Military police execute a raid on a suspected safe house

Ville de la Vie (Reuters) - In a series of raids, fifteen communist agitators and twenty Islamic extremists were arrested by Members of the Home Guard and SSA agents. The communists have been linked to a recent series of high-profile kidnappings, while the Muslims have been accused of raising funds for international terrorist group al-Nakba.

“Terrorists and their supporters will receive no quarter in Mer des Ennuis!” proclaimed Director of the Department of the Interior, Kathryn Nieveski in a press confrence at the Capital building. “Let this be a warning to all who would dare disrupt the peace of our nation: we will find you, and we will kill you.”

The raids come on the attempted assassination of Scarlet Rogers, President of Vetaka, and the Director of International Relations Viktor Krzysztof. The assassin was taken into custody by Vetakan security personnel, though government sources have yet to name the man. General of the Armies Kaspyr Wojtek had this to say.

“The attack on Vetaka and Director Krzysztof will not go unpunished. We are offering our full cooperation to the Vetakan authorities. We have credible intelligence to suggest that the assassin has ties to al-Nakba, and we will continue crackdowns in the indefinite future. We are pleased to report that al-Nakba has failed, and that President Rogers is alive, but in critical condition. General Wincenty and I have decided to dispatch a unit of the 15th Mer de Noms Guard to ensure the safety of Vetakan personnel, should futher attacks occur. We are also recommending that Vetakan nationals contact local law enforcement.”

The raids and assassination attempt have come in the wake of a commitment to fight terrorism by the Government, as well as an official condemnation of Vetaka. Government officials have expressed doubts about Vetaka recently over alliances with communist nations.
© Reuters 2007. All rights reserved.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Within five minutes of the press conference ending, two-hundred men in full battle gear marched in perfect columns, five across, down the wide streets of Mer de Noms for the Vetakan Embassy. The fortress of a building was soon surrounded by infantry, who began setting machine gun and anti-armor positions around the building. Snipers took up positions overlooking the area. Twenty minutes after the first units arrived, 4s8m Triarius BADS anti-air vehicles lumbered onto the seen, and Palletized Load Systems, behemoth logistical vehicles, dropped off everything from sandbags to iron battlements, mess tents, and other necessities. The 3rd rifle company had their orders: no one entered or left the embassy.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

From: The Office of the Arch Arsonist
To: The Office of the President, Vetaka
Re: Assassination Attempt

I am deeply troubled to hear that there was an attempt on Scarlet Roger’s life, but I am overjoyed that she is still alive. As Arch Arsonist, I am in the unique position to offer you the total resources of Mer des Ennuis, be they medical treatment or intelligence and military services. Though it is small, I have ordered a fruit basket to be flown to the hospital room that Scarlet is currently residing in. I pray for the best. Please let us know how we might be of service.

Sincerely,

Adam Wincenty
General of the Home Guard
Arch Arsonist of Mer des Ennuis
“Fear Ensures Loyalty!”
“All Glory to the Hypnotoad!”

((OOC: Glad to see I'm loved in Animarnia.))

SIC:

The Kampferian Seventh Fleet was idling off the coast of Mer des Ennuis when the radar room of the flagship picked up numerous ships steaming in towards the ships. It was the Mer des Ennuis fleet. "Aww, shit" proclaimed the radio operator.

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: KAMPFERIAN THIRD FLEET
TO: MER DES ENNUIS FLEET COMMANDER

WE TAKE IT BY YOUR RESPONSE THAT OUR EXCERCISES ARE NOT WELCOME HERE. STOP.
WILL MOVE TO FRIENDLY WATERS. STOP.
THE FUHRER RELAYS HIS SYMPATHY FOR THE INCONVENIENCE. FULL STOP.

With that, the Kampferian Seventh Fleet turned around and began to chug towards Vetakan waters, on an intercept route for the Kampferian Third Fleet, now united with the Prestonian Second Fleet. The fleet then sent a message back to the headquarters in Kampfers.

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: KAMPFERIAN THIRD FLEET
TO: KAMPFERIAN HIGH COMMAND

RECENTLY RAN OUT OF WATERS NEAR MER DES ENNUIS. STOP.
ESTIMATED RESPONSE FORCE: 125 SHIPS. STOP.
MOVING ON AN INTERCEPT COURSE WITH THE THIRD FLEET. STOP.
WILL PROCEED TO VETAKA WITH THIRD FLEET. FULL STOP.

The head men back in Kampfers were elated with the news. They had just gathered vital data on Mer des Ennuis. If they had played no part in the attempted assassination, then why did they respond with such force to the fleet? The response also provided crucial data about Mer des Ennuis' fleet response time and strength, not to mention the distance one could come without provoking the nation into action. This information was quickly relayed on to Fuhrer Richtoff.

Richtoff sat in his office and read the new reports. Mer des Ennuis had to be involved. Why else would they react as such? Richtoff wrote out a quick note to Vetaka.

Highly Encrypted Transmission:

To Acting President of Vetaka:

Do not trust the Ennuisians. They have been acting extremely suspiciously as of late. We suspect them to be the root of this evil, but have no hard evidence as of yet.

Fuhrer Richtoff

Richtoff sighed and sent off the message. This was bad news, if it truely was Mer des Ennuis. He regretted having sent the message, perhaps he should have waited, but it was too late now. Vetaka would surely trust him, due to their very strong yet still developing friendship. Richtoff knew that Mer des Ennuis meant bad news. They were the size of Wagdog, Vetaka, and Kampfers combined, or at least close. If war did erupt, it would be a tough one indeed. Richtoff called in Bill Richardson, head of the Kampferian Intelligence Bureau. "So, Mr. Richardson, what knowledge do we have of Mer des Ennuis' wartime capabilities?"

"Not much, sir. I am sorry to say this, but as a smaller nation, we concentrate on the people with more immedate impact to us." Richardson braced himself for the storm that was sure to come.

"God dammit Bill! Look at our predicament! Mer des Ennuis is all that has impact to us! Now, what do we know?"

"Well, sir, we know they are big. That is about it. I recommend we take every precaution. Even Program Shroud."

"Damn. You really do mean every precaution. Very well. Execute Program Shroud." Richardson left to carry out his mission. Within seconds of uploading the program to Kampfers' OBSAT server, it activated. This program was above top-secret, and not even the designers of OBSAT and Kampfers' closest ally in Vetaka knew of it. Richtoff had never shared it, because if one knew it, it was easy to crack. He did not trust other governments to be free of leaks. Within seconds of the program executing, every Kampferian OBSAT satellite instantly changed its signature. They still functioned as normal, however, they now registered as sattelites from many different companies and nations. For example, one might read "Griffencrest Corporation Surveillence" instead of its previous designation as an OBSAT satellite for Kampfers. The scientists had had so much time to work on it, they had thrown in a few twists. If it did happen to be destroyed, it sent a message to the nation/corporation it "belonged" to telling them of its death and all its last data. This program was designed to enable Kampfers to maintain battlefield communications in times of massive war.

Richtoff looked at his computer after Richardson left. A new email popped up on his screen.

You were nothing before me. Do not make me make you nothing again.

-Marx's Downfall

A shiver went down Richtoff's spine. When Kyle Hart made a promise, he kept it. This was one promise Richtoff hoped would never come to fruition. He deleted the email. Just to be sure, he cleared his history, cookies, and cache. Richtoff was not a religious man, but God did cross his mind occasionally, normally in times of intense distress. This was one of those times. "God come quickly" he muttered, fading off into a dense, surreal sleep.

((OOC: Vetaka, I set you up perfectly.))

(ooc: No offence Kampf :) I like you OOCly; but I have no IC relations with you. People we call allies have earned that right; most Animarnians form trust through blood spilled along side one another; we're still a bit Iffy on Wagdog Icely. maybe this is your chance to earn a closer relationship with us? plus Black is a stuborn old bastard so don't take anything he says personally xD )

Aurum Doman Embassy

Senior Agent Dwight Achteson typed a message on the main computer in the command center. It was a message to the Acting President.

We are very happy to hear that Scarlet survived the assasination attempt. We are sending a treat basket and a get well card from all of us at the embassy. I would like to offer you the services of the counter terrorist squad of our special forces. Whoever did this must be brought to justice and we would love to help

P.S.
Give our friends in Kampfers a call, I'm willing to bet they have something interesting to share with you.

Agent Achteson didn't officially know anything, he had been monitoring OBSAT when the Kampferian fleet had passed Mer des Ennuis and had noticed the quick response. He had come to the same conclusion, they were hiding something and he was willing to bet it was their association with the assasin.

To: Vetakan Presidency
From: Wanderjarian Emperor



Greetings Vetakan friends, it has been too long since we have spoken. I have been made aware of a situation in your lands by our Wagdogian allies. I'll have you know that we support you in anyway we can. Should you be attacked, we will defend you. Take our word on that.


Do you feel the need for us to bring military units into your nation at this point?


~Emperor Baker of the Red Empire of Wanderjar/New Prussian Empire

Office of Furher Richtoff, Kampfers Stadt, Kampfers:

The office was beautiful a credit to a man whom led his nation from its desk. A man whom had supported Vetaka and her Allies through thick and thin even if it had comprised his domestic political position in his own nation. Support that would not go forgotten. Roxanne Wright had been the second President of Vetaka with the help of Pearce, Roxanne had been the main driving force behind the Theeb Accords and the United Federation of Allied Nations. Roxanne was a women of around 6ft in height a beautiful brunette with green eyes and a slender body. She had sacrificed herself in the Clandonian-Vetakan War to cleanse Vetaka of its Broken Loyalty Oath to the Sovereign League and the Questarian Crown Commonwealth.

Appearing in the Office of the Furher she was somewhat amused to find he had fallen asleep. Thus she sat down and sat opposite him across his desk she gazed at him for a few seconds before finally speaking her voice calm, educated and very persuading:

"Sir..... Furher....... Mr Richtoff"

He stired before eventually waking he was surprised to see this women, this beautiful women in his desk alone, before he had a chance to hit a distress alarm:

"Do not be afraid Furher, I am a friend, A friend whom loves you and will defend you to the last. I am here to tell you not to give up. To keep fighting this campaign you are waging. I am here to tell you that I watch over you and that I will protect you from those whom may seek to try and harm you Sir. I know Hart rigged the election for you, I know and it doesn't matter. What matters is you have done right by your country and done right by this world. I promise you that. You are protected.

Vetakan Defence Force Military Base (VDFMB) New Theeb, New Theeb, Vetaka:

The VDFMB New Theeb was the Capitals Main Air and Naval Base whom to the 1st Homeland Defence Battlegroup she supported both the 1st Navy and the 1st Army. Although it was huge in size on the service her underground network ran for miles it was in this network that the Interrogation of the Presidential Assassin was taking place. The room was very cold, Sound Proofed from the outside, 4 CCTV Cameras, a Panic Alarm and a large 2 Way Glass Wall that allowed external viewing of what was going on. The door opened and 4 Heavily Armed Troops entered the took positions in the 4 corners of this cold room. After this a man in a wheelchair entered pushed by another man he was wheeled to a side of the desk and left their. Once this was complete 3 further men entered, 1 of them wore a Generals Uniform the other 2 where simply privates and again where heavily armed. The General sat in a chair opposite a man in the wheelchair the 2 guards flanked the General standing just behind him. The General placed his E-57 upon the desk just next to a number of files. After looking through the files he began:

"I am General Norman Joanland of Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service attache to Military Strategical Intelligence. Now down to business who are you?"

Silence

"You are hardly in a position to be silent now are you. So who are you? You don't have to tell me who sent you. So who sent you?"

Silence. The General nodded and one of the soilders behind the Wheelchair stepped foward and punched the man in the back of the head:

"That hurt right? This nation condems torture of Prisoners in all its forms. Now lets evaluate the situation. Your situation is hopeless you are in a Military Base with no chance of escape, you are in a wheelchair so even if you did mange to escape you would not get very far. You are destined to live the rest of you life in a cell. However if you talk with us we can help you. Now again who are you?"

"Jack Berkshire" replied the man in the Wheelchair

"Ok Jack, who sent you, Who are you working for?" asked the General

"I don't know who he was" replied Jack

"So you where sent by somebody. What where your objectives?" barked the General

"Kill the Woman at all costs and Kill the Man if possible. I don't know who they where" replied Jack

"Dont know who they where? She was President Scarlet Rogers and He was an Ennusian Director of International Relations Viktor Krzysztof. Did you not know?"

"No. I don't remember" replied Jack

"Who sent you? What kind of accent did he have if any? Did you have a Hotel Room in Vetaka?" replied the General

"He was ENNUSIAN OK he paid me, he gave me a weapon he gave me everything I NEEDED so leave me alone." sobbed Jack

"Who was this Ennusian?" asked the General

"He said he worked for the Government" replied Jack

With that the General reolstered his weapon and ordered that Jack be taken back to his cell for the time being from their he would be taken on to a Safe House.

VDF Operational Command Centre, New Theeb, Vetaka:

The Double Doors opened and Supreme Operational Commander Jonathon Stone swept in and began barking orders:

"Report?"

"Kampfian Fleet is requesting permission to enter our waters?" replied the Watch Officer

"Grant them permission" replied Stone

"Aniamarinan Fleet in the region is requesting advice?" shouted a Comm Officer.

"Have them link up with the Kampfian Fleet and our 1st Battlegroup." replied Stone.

Office of the President, Palace of Peace, New Theeb, Vetaka:

To say Scarlet was stubborn was a understatement as soon as she been cleared by the Doctor she had returned to her duties. Presently she sat in her Office listerning to General Norman Joanland give his report. She was not alone with the General. Pearce was present and so was Foreign Secretary Cox after the General was finished Scarlet spoke:

"So your saying this was an Ennusian Government Operation?"

"Yes. If not they have something to hide and their recent condemnation of our Foreign Policy adds depth to it. Allied Intel from Wagdog, Kampfers and Aurum have all condluded the same. Ive just spoken to OBSAT Space Command they where watching when the Kampfian Fleet approached their waters on Shakedown Exercises to say the response was over the top would be ignorant." replied Pearce

"Ma'am our Embassy in Mes Des Ennuis is reporting that they have been surrounded by Ennusian Forces under the pretense of providing Security" spoke Cox

"Options?" replied Scarlet

"Summon the Ennusian Ambassador, For an explanation" replied Cox

"Prepare for immediate conflict" replied Pearce

Scarlet nodded and spoke: "Do it"

With that the 3 men left and got to work. Scarlet relaxed in her chair before getting to work sending out e-mails and messages.

Official Free Dominion of Vetaka Diplomatic Message:

To: President Rene Shondel, Office of Animarnia Presidency
From: Scarlet Rogers, Office of the Vetakan President

I thank you for your kind words my friend. But I assure you I am fine alittle roughed up but nothing I have not encountered before. I thank you and your nation for your kind words and support. With your permission in order to calm the situation could your Battlefleet reinforce the 1st Vetakan Battlegroup. Regarding your proposed visit I would be honoured to have you here in my home. Just get on a plane and make your way here. Ill inform the Foreign Office immediately.

Thank You Again

Your Friend

Scarlet Rogers

President of the Free Dominion of Vetaka
Supreme Commanding Admiral in Chief of the Vetakan Defence Forces

Official Free Dominion of Vetaka Diplomatic Message:

To: Ennusian Ambassador to Vetaka & Ennusian Foreign Office
From: Vetakan Foreign Secretary Perry Cox

Subject: Summons

Under Article 12 of Vetakan Diplomatic Law as Chief Diplomatic Representive of your nation to the Vetakan Nation, You are hearby summoned to the Palace of Peace to an audience with President Rogers to provide explantion for your nations actions regarding surrounding the Vetakan Embassy within Mes Des Ennuis.

You are required to attend as soon as humanly possible

Yours

Perry Cox

Secretary of Foreign Affairs to the Free Dominon of Vetaka

Vetakan Embassy, Mer de Noms, Mes Des Ennuis:

"Stay Calm" spoke Jamie Whitehall Ambassador to Mes Des Ennuis.

"Stay Calm? Their are 100 Ennusian Troops on our doorstop? Something doesn't smell right. I recommend we call in the Troops and Evac. Right Now" replied Captain Alan Handlrena

"No ill contact New Theeb. Break out the Weapons and increase Security. Do not Fire. Prepare for Evacuation Immediately. Begin securing all Sensitive Documents" ordered Jamie

"Yes Sir" replied Alan knowing when to shut up and obey and when to disobey orders.

OOC: Done

To: Vetakan Presidency
From: Wanderjarian Emperor



Greetings Vetakan friends, it has been too long since we have spoken. I have been made aware of a situation in your lands by our Wagdogian allies. I'll have you know that we support you in anyway we can. Should you be attacked, we will defend you. Take our word on that.


Do you feel the need for us to bring military units into your nation at this point?


~Emperor Baker of the Red Empire of Wanderjar/New Prussian Empire

Official Free Dominion of Vetaka Diplomatic Message:

To: Emperor Baker of the Red Empire of Wanderjar/New Prussian Empire
From: Vetakan Office of the President

It is good to read your words again my friend I am also glad to have the pleasure of personally replying to you. Even if my doctors are ordering me to rest. I thank you for your support and it will never go unforgotten. On the subject of your military no I do not believe Vetaka requires your Military Forces at this time. However may I call upon your support if required in the future?

Your Friend

Scarlet Rogers

President of the Free Dominion of Vetaka
Supreme Commanding Admiral in Chief of the Vetakan Defence Forces

Official Free Dominion of Vetaka Diplomatic Message:

To: Emperor Baker of the Red Empire of Wanderjar/New Prussian Empire
From: Vetakan Office of the President

It is good to read your words again my friend I am also glad to have the pleasure of personally replying to you. Even if my doctors are ordering me to rest. I thank you for your support and it will never go unforgotten. On the subject of your military no I do not believe Vetaka requires your Military Forces at this time. However may I call upon your support if required in the future?

Your Friend

Scarlet Rogers

President of the Free Dominion of Vetaka
Supreme Commanding Admiral in Chief of the Vetakan Defence Forces



The Emperor of Wanderjar replied with one word, "Absolutely."

Adam Wincenty sat alone in his desk. Military police patrols usually reserved to give a sense of peace and security throughout the nation had slightly increased in strength and frequency in the wake of the “arrests.”

The international situation was slowly going to shit, though he did not know as much. Right now, one of the most powerful men in the world, and one whose tenacity for ruthlessness was matched only by his subtlety. Most of his chiefs of staff were running around, preparing for any eventuality, and all were on call.

Adam filed some papers around his desk, his mind restless. He picked up a phone, and hit a button.

“Sir?” asked the receptionist.

“Get me General Stefan.”

“Yes sir, hold please.”

He drummed his fingers for a few seconds.

“High Command, Jacek Stefan speaking.”

“Jacek, have we managed to infiltrate OBSAT yet?”

“Not yet, Sir. OBSAT is extremely secure, and the UPLINK unit hasn’t managed to break it yet. We anticipate that it will take three days of brute-forcing with Earth Array 1 to do so covertly.”

“Are we monitoring any other satellites?”

“Yes, Sir. We have the locations of nine-five percent of Vetakan and Wagdogian satellites, plus or minus 3 percent. We have locks on seven-five percent of Kampherian satellites, and we attempting to locate the other OBSAT network satellites.”

“Good, prepare to take them out with as little as five minutes notice.”

“Rodger sir.”

He terminated the line, and a secure fax embedded in the wall behind his desk started beeping. It read


OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: KAMPFERIAN THIRD FLEET
TO: MER DES ENNUIS FLEET COMMANDER

WE TAKE IT BY YOUR RESPONSE THAT OUR EXCERCISES ARE NOT WELCOME HERE. STOP.
WILL MOVE TO FRIENDLY WATERS. STOP.
THE FUHRER RELAYS HIS SYMPATHY FOR THE INCONVENIENCE. FULL STOP.


He sat down, somewhat surprised.

”One Maritime Guard group actually deterred someone? What the fuck is this world coming to.” He thought, laughing a bit. The Maritime Guard had a habit of falling apart under pressure, but recent large-scale upgrades had made it somewhat of a formidable fighting force. He picked up his phone again.

“Sir?”

“Get me Naval Command, I want Andrei.”

“Right away, sir.”

The phone went dead for a second, before the rough polish voice of the Admiral of the Navies answered

“Ivan speaking.”

“Admiral, I trust you’ve heard of the Kampherians running with their tails between their legs?”

“Aye sir, I’m as surprised as you are.”

“What are you doing should they or their friends decide to come back?”

“I’ve stationed five carrier battle groups in the straights of Les Trois Villes, and the Golden Bay is positively bustling; we’re moving the groups at to sea. My admirals are moving the assault groups to strategic locations around the island.”

“That sounds good. I want, uh, Admiral Neza to respond to this telegram… tell her to be civil.”

“Yes, sir.”

Again, Adam terminated the line, and got back to pushing paper around until something happened.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Katica Neza, Admiral of the Maritime Guard, had finished reading the details of the Kampherian fleet that had nearly intruded on Ennuisian waters, when the message came down the pipe. She drafted a quick telegram.


DIPLOMATIC CIPHER GRADE LOW
FROM: MARITIME GUARD COMMAND
TO: KAMPHERIAN THIRD FLEET

YOUR GOVERNMENT FAILED TO NOTIFY OUR GOVERNMENT THAT EXERCISES WOULD BE COMMENCING STOP
PLEASE KINDLY REQUEST PREMISSION NEXT TIME STOP
APPOLOGY ACCECPTED STOP
FURTHER UNAUTHORIZED EXERCISES IN ENNUISIAN WATERS WILL BE TAKEN AS A SIGN OF AGGRESSION FULL STOP


-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Ambassador to Vetaka Willard Turing, home from the failed state of Lerasia, had kept a tight ship. Mer des Ennuis had long ago abandoned the “traditional” espionage, favoring a sleeper-cell like structure headed by military intelligence. He was surprised when there was an assassination attempt on the president, and spat out his tea when the newswire reported that the Vetakan embassy had been surrounded. Before he could call his home office, a courier had stumbled into the room, delivering the summons.

”I wonder if he likes scrubs” he wondered to himself, calling the Foreign Affairs Directorate.

“Yea, hi, this is Willard Turing.”

“Mister Turing, Director Krzysztof what can I do for you?”

“Pleasure to hear you are alive and well sir.”

“Thank you, but that isn’t why you called.”

“No sir. I have received a summons to explain why our nation has sealed the Vetakan Embassy.”

“Have you been reading the papers?”

“Yes, sir. The reports and memos indicate that it is to protect the Vetakans from further attempts after the assassination but…”

“Willard, their leader was shot not five feet from me, and we have launched several anti-terror raids.”

“Sir, was this an SSA hit?”

“What?”

“Was the SSA involved in any way what so ever in the attempt on Scarlet?”

“No. The SSA, to the best of my knowledge, had no reason to kill Scarlet.”

“That doesn’t answer the question.”

“No, but it is all I can tell you for now. We are tracing leads down within the country; someone leaked my schedule to the wrong people, and we are dealing with it.”

“I understand.”

The other end terminated.

“Shit…” he took a drink, and mopped his forehead. Whether his explanation would convince the Vetakans was irrelevant. He assembled some documents, and threw open the door.

“Sergeant” he said as the embassy guards snapped to attention. “We are going to the Palace of Peace. Five guards.”

“Yes, Sir! They will be waiting at the car, sir!”

Willard nodded, rubbing his head.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

“Sir, Director Swietoslaw is here to see you.”

“Let him in” sighed Adam. “What now?”

“Sir, we are taking out the trash.”

“What?”

“I’ve arranged for Jack Berkshire’s contact to be killed. We sent him undercover to contact an organized crime element, and we have his location. This group is known to be trafficking arms to communists; the motive is clear.”

“What is this agent’s name?”

“Leon Black, sir. He has served without distinction, and bungled an operation in British Londinium during their civil war. Do you have any objections to him being our fall guy?”

“No sir, he has failed our nation one too many times.”

“What is the status of the assault?”

“It is set to go in thirty seconds…”

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Ten killed in terror raid; believed to be behind Vetakan assassination attempt
By Ron Kay
http://www.military-sf.com/images/MOUT5.jpg
Above: Guard units storm the fortress

Ville des Lumieres (Reuters) – A police action in Ville des Lumiers turned bloody today as Guard units helped civilian police shut down a weapons trafficking facility.

“Following leads from the SSA, we launched a covert action against the Montesino crime syndicate in an attempt to capture an illegal weapons cache, as well as apprehend a suspect connected with the Vetakan assassination attempt” said Police Commissioner Bill Christ in an official release.

The firefight started when police units closed in on a suspected crime syndicate safe house, where an illegal arms deal was believed to be underway. Ennuisian law permits the dissemination of small arms, but bars the purchase of certain military weapons by non-licensed civilians.

Witnesses report that a civilian opened fire on police, who returned fire and retreated. A guard unit from the 3rd Lumieres Division was on scene, and breached the outer wall. Heavy fire ensued, and a soldier was injured. Five suspects were wounded and captured, but ten were killed in the chaos, including SSA agent Leon Black.

The Vetakan Connection

Leon Black had been under internal surveillance for some time, reported senior SSA staff.

“Agent Black was believed to have connections with various criminal elements, and separatist groups. We have traced him to several arms deals that may have provided the weapon used against President Rogers and Director Krzysztof. We have begun seizing his assets, and we are confident that this will turn up more leads.”

He declined to be named because the information has not been formally made public yet.

The death of suspected terrorist Leon Black and the raid on the Montesino syndicate are the latest in a crackdown on terrorist and communist activities in Mer des Ennuis, triggered by the attempted assassination of Vetakan President Scarlet Rogers.

© Reuters 2007. All rights reserved.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Willard’s armored town car and the chase car stopped at the gates of the palace of peace.

“Sir, urgent message!” shouted one of the black-suited guards, holding a small printout.

“What is this?” he said, quickly reading it.

“Ambassador Turning, suspect in assassination killed in police raid. Mid-level SSA agent, Leon Black, connected with weapons traffickers, communists, and organized crime. Motive not established yet, but connections strong with the shooter. Picture coming.”

Willard smiled slightly.

“Thank you… we’re late.”

Willard walked briskly down the ornate halls of the Palace flanked by two of the bigger embassy guards. He knocked on a door marked “P. Cox,” and entered.

“Greetings Secretary Cox. I don’t believe we’ve met, but I have much to tell you. I have been informed that the military buildup around the Vetakan embassy is motivated by a desire to protect the occupants. As I’m sure you’ve read, we have begun a crackdown on undesirable elements, and, in the wake of the assassination attempt, fear that attempts might be made on Vetakan personnel in Mer des Ennuis.”

He paused… the secretary already knew that line. As Willard turned over the paper, he spoke.

“I’m also pleased to inform you that the chief suspect in the assassination case was killed during a raid on an organized crime safe house. State Security Administration agents are usually… how shall I put this… somewhat above the law. Counterintelligence naturally is strong, but occasionally a criminal sneaks past our filters. I believe it is possible that this Black used his connections against Vetaka and ourselves, but I can’t be sure why.”

An agent entered, and silently handed a color picture of Leon to Willard, who turned it over to Perry.

War Room, High General's Palace

The High General, his advisers, and the top military officials from each branch sat around a large table. The High General stood.

"As everyone knows, our intel and intel from our allies has confirmed that Mer des Ennuis were involved in the attempt on President Rogers life. This will probably lead to war. I have called you gentlemen and ladies here today to decide on a course of action."

Admiral Melinda Hawke stood up.

"High General, I think we should deploy the 1st Battle Fleet. We can rendevous with our allies in Vetaka and decide on a plan of operation there."

"Great idea Admiral, we'll get right on th-"

He was cut off by a technician.

"High General sir, OBSAT is being hacked, some one is trying to take down our satellites."

"Well stop them goddamnnit. One of you inform the UFAN, track these hackers although I can hazard a guess at where they're coming from."

The meeting convened and everyone sprung into action.

War Room, High General's Palace

The High General, his advisers, and the top military officials from each branch sat around a large table. The High General stood.

"As everyone knows, our intel and intel from our allies has confirmed that Mer des Ennuis were involved in the attempt on President Rogers life. This will probably lead to war. I have called you gentlemen and ladies here today to decide on a course of action."

Admiral Melinda Hawke stood up.

"High General, I think we should deploy the 1st Battle Fleet. We can rendevous with our allies in Vetaka and decide on a plan of operation there."

"Great idea Admiral, we'll get right on th-"

He was cut off by a technician.

"High General sir, OBSAT is being hacked, some one is trying to take down our satellites."

"Well stop them goddamnnit. One of you inform the UFAN, track these hackers although I can hazard a guess at where they're coming from."

The meeting convened and everyone sprung into action.


OOC: Me and Vetaka talked about this; it's being done against his OBSAT only, in a covert enough way that its detectors wouldn't be tripped... a simple probe at this point, just FYI

OOC: Ok, as long as you aren't going after my satellites I'm fine.

The alliance with Vetaka, and the whole COMECON-SD affair in general, had always been somewhat of a controversial topic in New Manth. Few civilian politicians had ever liked the Vetakan closeness to various communist states, and the Vetakans had always tended to forge their own path in international politics; a path that had not always jived harmoniously with what New Manth would have preferred. Nevertheless, the Vetakans had made a deep impression on several leaders in the New Manthian Central Command thanks to their honorable conduct during the Hamilayan Civil War, and ironically it is New Manth's thoroughly conservative Navy where the Vetakans are best regarded. And so it is a naval officer, one the Vetakans might remember, who is chosen to visit Vetaka to convey the government's sympathies to President Scarlet Rogers, and to offer any assistance which the Vetakans might require.

Fleet Admiral Sash Arvando is older now, and no longer in active command after the Heracles had been scrapped several years ago. Retirement is only a few years away for the Admiral, but Central Command had felt that he would be the best candidate for the visit. That's why he is now sitting on the bridge of an Indestructable-class aircraft carrier, the Ismailia, as the 9th High Seas Force approaches Vetaka.

"Crazy thing." he murmurs. "Maybe Hornblower is still around. Like to meet him again."

"Admiral? We'll be coming up on Vetakan waters soon."

Arvando sighs. There are grimmer matters to attend to first. An official visit. Condolences to the crippled Vetakan President.

"Well son, let them know when we'll be arriving."

Rene read over the email and nodded as she sat on the Animarnia Equivalent to Air Force One. The presidential jet was packed with Several Security staff in black suits and a team of Eight; all women clad solely in Modern Ninja type gear these were the Shinigami. In the presidential office of the plane around the meeting room sat Rene; and to her left was Kara Coniralia the attaché to Sam Fisher the national Security director and to her right was Sam her personal bodyguard as well as former ASAS. The flight was going to be roughly 8 hours to Veteka and this was one instance where Rene did not mind flying.

She picked up her mobile phone as it rang; the wireless secured line via StrikeNet direct to the AIA; "Rene; Go" she said.

"Ma'am, Spy Sats near Veteka have given us reason to believe the Ennusian's may be involved in the assassination attempt of Scarlet Rogers; Kampfers a well know player in international politics was running a shakedown cruise on some of its ships and well to say the Ennusian Response was a little overkill would be a vast understatement; and they have very very quick to try and downplay this whole thing...I smell a rat"

"Sam you said there is no such thing as over kill" Rene replied

"True but I still don't trust them; oh and Cain has been asked to link up with the Vetekan and Kanpfen battle groups; do you have any further orders I should pass on " Sam replied.

"Sam; You don't trust anyone. If they're fired on; don't hesitate to fire back" Rene added.

"Yes Ma'am; Thats my job and I'll pass on the orders."

and so the flight to Veteka continued

OOC: Mer des Ennuis; Just so you know I don't use OBSAT

OOC: Mer des Ennuis, I don't expect to keep all of my OBSAT satellites after running Program Shroud, but I expect to maintain functionality. I also have back-up (non-OBSAT) satellites should OBSAT go down.

SIC:

Kampfers Stadt, Kampfers
Inside the office of the Fuhrer

Richtoff shook off his emotions. Had he really jus seen what he thought he did? He must still have been asleep. He pinched himself. Nope, hes awake. He had just seen a dead woman. A very powerful woman at that. Who was she??? She was a former president of Vetaka. She had told him to stay the course. How the hell did she know the elections wre rigged? His mind was set now. There was no way in hell that he would abandon his allies, no matter what Kyle Hart and his terrorists did or said. And they were sure to do something.

Shlusselkampf, Kampfers
Inside the top secret military base

Final preparations were commencing. Planes and Tanks never before seen in Kampfers were being rolled out of their storage facilities. Among these were MiG-40 Red Foxes, Raven Corps made F-00's, and B-74 Shadowcasters. M-200 Desolators slowly rolled out of their massive garages. This equipment had never been used in Kampfers, but they were going to be used in the upcoming theatres.

All Across Kampfers
In normal military bases

Soldiers scurried everywhere, gathering their gear and climbing aboard planes. For many, these would be one way tickets to Vetaka. Kampfers had secured the use of all Kampferian owned planes for the trip.

At Port Yorkbere, two more fleets left harbor. These were the Second and Fourth fleets, and they would be going to Vetaka with all priority. The Kampferian High command sent out a message to Vetaka, telling them of the surge.

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: KAMPFERIAN HIGH COMMAND
TO: VETAKAN HIGH COMMAND

BEGINNING TROOP SURGE IN VETAKA. STOP.
EXPECT GROUND TROOPS. STOP.
KAMPFERIAN SECOND AND FOURTH FLEETS ARE EN ROUTE AS WELL. STOP.
TOP-SECRET EQUIPMENT TO BE USED. WE CAN NOT AFFORD TO LOSE. FULL STOP.

Meanwhile, numerous OBSAT satellites belonging to Kampfers had been incapable of running Program Shroud. However, a fair percentage of them had ran the program successfully, enough so that Kampfers would be able to continue OBSAT operations even if someone targeted their satellites.

SIC
War Office Briefing Room Underground Bunker Complex, Palace of the Revolution; Tailville DR, Wagdog
Having read the dispatches from Vetaka, Kampfers and Aurum Domus, as well as having made more OBSAT annotations to its records on Mer des Ennuis, the picture was starting to emerge. And, aside from the arrivals of more UFAN, COMECON-SD, GUSN and independent allies to the Vetakan side, it definitely wasn't a pretty picture by far. 'Arch-Arsonist' Wincenty could claim all he wanted about 'terrorists' and 'crime syndicates'; the fact that their own hitman had compromised the real truth of the matter to VSIS put all of that to the lie. And, considering both the most-peculiar way the Ennusians were going about 'securing' the Vetakan embassy in their country and the increased military activity observable at those ports and airfields under surveillance, the missing 'why' of it all was starting to become obvious. Yet again, somebody was most likely mustering for war against Vetaka; to their credit, one FAR more worthy an opponent of Wagdog's time and might than The Fighting Stars had ever been.

"So." General Secretary Charles Lind wasn't going to waste time parsing over what had been discussed-to-death for hours now. "Suggestions... Mario, Tíliel, Elaine, honey?"

Defense Secretary Mario Iliescu was frank about the matter, even if his language remained as eloquent as always for a vampire of his refinement. "Simple, muster what we can sustain and prepare for battle. Once all rendezvous are complete, I can have six fleets of ours in Vetakan waters wherever they decide we're needed; inclusive of the two fleets returning with VDF Third Battlegroup from The Fighting Stars. Combining them under Admiral Opalclaw's command is recommended, naturally." The she-werewolf Admiral that had contributed so much to the Nicksyllvanian War years ago, after succeeding now-Grand Admiral Ta'aren Forthrion the elf who was in charge of Naval Reserves ever since his own success off Strator even longer ago, was likely due for that last bump in rank herself soon. She was a bit young, which was the only obstacle, but all-told it would probably happen soon.

"Also," the vampire continued in a quick wrap. "Besides increasing our fighter patrol tempo, we should recommend to the VDF that the OBSAT Link Protocols should be enacted if security permits; which situation on the VDF side we know nothing about as yet, even if ours seems secure. Be that as it may, it's certain Ennusian forces will act in some way against the system; especially since Clandonia's failure to at first back during their war resulted in such a bad showing on their part, fortunately enough for Vetaka and us. Linking all OBSATs of all nations involved in this fight would give our foes the proverbial 'more targets' needed to degrade their ASAT effectiveness still further, and ensure all allies linked in could maintain at least some functionality even in the face of substantial system losses." Not a happy thought, but then again War didn't care who it saddened now did it?

Lady Uralia Tíliel nós Kharlir, now Acting Secretary of State ever since her superior Sir Rilir Alárion nós Carthir had gone missing in Kraven Corporation territory, prepared the foreign intelligence side of things. "Insofar as one can be short of word from the Valar themselves, we are certain that it is indeed Wincenty's government that is behind this. However, although their condemnation of Vetaka does make sense as a motive for these actions, that is also the problem. Specifically, it is too convenient; if they had such a problem with us, they could've attacked us in likewise fashion or even more strongly to equal effect. In either scenario, they would face Vetaka and our other allies; but by focusing on Vetaka alone, we are unharmed even though we are arguably the matter of dispute all the same."

Though not as tall or proud an elf as Lady Tóriel, the USSW Ambassador in Vetaka and technically Lady Tíliel's superior but for the ongoing absence at State of the 'official' Department head, the Acting Secretary could manage a very Eldarin 'appraisal look' framed by her flame-red locks and compact physique for her kind. "Perhaps admirable deception, in terms of strategic effort; but there is such a thing as 'trying too hard'. This is such a case, and I suspect there is a deeper motive even if our spies know it not as yet. Suffice it to say, comrades, I shall set their task to learn more." Though quite the opposite of a Marxist or any other sort of revolutionary, like virtually all mature Elves, Uralia knew the usage was both polite in her particular company and also usable in a non-partisan connotation; with equal effect and good conscience besides.

Interior Secretary Elaine Williams' brief was so much simpler. "Given the effort we've been putting out to get informants within our Catholic community against any possible Manus Dei or other Doomani infiltration, and the quite good results so far, we should have no problem both multitasking those sources for and directing new efforts specifically upon any Ennusian covert action against us." Not that Wagdog's Catholics followed the Reichite Bible or Doomani antipope anyway, nor that the nation had any restrictions on religion either aside from a purely 'official' agnosticism on the State's part plus requiring any clergy pay taxes and obey the law like anyone else; the espionage was simple prudence in time of pending war against Doomingsland in defense of Generia, of course. Prudence which, in this new case likely to involve Mer des Ennuis, could well pay off in spades. "No security is perfect, of course; but even after handing them over to the Army on mobilization, we still have operational control over all Red Guard units tasked with internal security rather than defensive combat proper. We're all-up, and on the watch." Elaine's slight British accent, as well as her slight chest puff under daintily crossed arms which emphasized her quite muscular swimmer's figure, both combined with her cropped blonde hair to emphasize how happy she was to be fulfilling her entire job description for the first time.

Deputy General Secretary Christine Friedrich was brooding. On the one hand, elated and relieved to know her best friend after her husband was still alive; and on the other, blazing inside with fury against Arch-Arsonist Adam Wincenty for daring to strike at Scarlet and her unborn child for a problem he had with Christine's government instead, assuming Vetaka's alliance with Wagdog was indeed the 'provocation' Mer des Ennuis was using to 'justify the unjustifiable' in this case. "Good. I want our eyes on those murderers constantly, and to be ready the instant they try anything still dumber than what they've already pulled." Christine's anger was showing, her flat and steely tone being the only vestige of control remaining in her; she was running on instinct again, instincts honed in brutal guerrilla war beside her husband in the early '70s when first taking Wagdog as a nation. "When war comes; if war comes..." She figured maintaining the appearance of hoping for a miracle couldn't hurt, even if not likely to work. "Crucify them."

The others present fidgeted, gulped, brooded; did whatever nervous gesture felt appropriate to them at the woman's sudden change from caring diplomat to murderous dominatrix. Unless one had lived with her for years, as Charles had; or else worked with her in a similar crisis for any length of time, it would seem as if Christine Friedrich suffered from some sort of dissociative psychological disorder. But she did not; for these two women, so different in seeming affect, were in fact one and the same. She loved her friends with utmost warmth. And fought her enemies, of which she'd never had too few ever since that fateful year of 1974, with equally-utmost cold vengeance.

Steepling his fingers before the bridge of his nose in fatigue, touching the bridge of his glasses to give the appropriately brooding expression, Charles assented. "Good. Act by initiative as always; I concur with all these actions as undertaken. Keep me informed, especially of any need to move to our NEACPs. I don't know how far this could go, so let's assume 'all the way' until the Arch-Arsonist gives us reason to surmise less. That's why we're on DEFCON 2 and will stay there until further notice." As Commander-in-Chief, he had proper authority for such an order and tended to personally issue them; although rarely more since he was a national leader, not a company commander or such anymore. He had been once, back in '74; but now his responsibilities ran incomparably higher than caring for some glorified warband of irregular leftist riff-raff...

IC (except where one might surmise SIC, as in a few parts below...)
Ports, Air and Army Bases across Wagdog...
Rather, they ran to caring for and supervising the efforts of some thirty-million-plus servicepeople on full mobilization across six branches. Foremost was the Navy, which was spewing to sea four numbered Fleets worth of recently-commissioned warships; their objective: to rendezvous with the Vetakan First and Third Battlegroups, and the Wagdian First and Third Fleets escorting same, in the defense of Vetaka from any assault Ennusian or otherwise. By sea, the enemy would know Wagdog's strength soon; for this was a fleet that compensated for lack of numbers by emphasizing quality instead, in terms of larger ships carrying heavier weapon and armor and sensor fits than most tasked with their missions in similarly-sized fleets. There were budgetary benefits to being the 'senior service', after all. Plus, with the Konstantin class strategic missile subs already on patrol and most of Sixth Fleet's cruise-missile and attack subs either sortied in their mixed wolfpacks or about to, Wagdian waters were soon to become quite treacherous indeed to any so foolish as to wander in with hostile intent.

Technically larger than the Navy, although only due to the recent mobilization and the simple fact that aircraft are faster and easier to produce and/or order than ships by many magnitudes, the Army Air Forces were also upping their activity. Il-78M tankers were deploying by full Refuelling Wings of 100 to maximum loitering range outside Wagdian airspace; each Wing escorted by another Fighter-Strike Wing of 250 FA-15D Cardinal multirole fighters, which after a refuelling could easily go on the counteroffensive against invading forces if needed. Supporting these was the picket line of A-50M Mainstay AWACS planes, also deploying by Air Control Wings of 100 to the same broad areas as the tankers and Cardinals. Multiply these aircraft numbers by ten, to account for one third of the total 30 Wings of each type in-theater returning to base at any time, plus another third preparing to sortie despite being surge-capable if needed, and one could ascertain the sheer scale of Wagdian air defenses even without accounting for the Army-proper's truly numerous armed S-400 SAMs and other such antiaircraft ordnance. Said ordnance, naturally, dispersed throughout Wagdog along with the other ground forces of the nation readying for war; whatever the theater, and whatever the situation or foe.

On a more 'strategic' level, even despite the misnomer in that usage since actual strategy had to do with far more than mere weapon-system ranges, the Wagdian bomber force was equally ramping-up; although not taking to the air as yet so as to avoid undue escalation. An ominous sight indeed to those who could recognize it: thousands of B-22 Zeus heavy bombers and hundreds of Tu-160M Blackjack fast bombers loading up within their hardened revetments; so far with just conventional cruise and semiballistic missiles of various types, although both freefall bombs on the low end and nuclear weapons on the high end were available if their employment was deemed necessary according to the situation. And most-ominously, the highly-secret Il-87 Maxdome strategic command aircraft and their equally hush-hush MiG-40 Red Fox interceptor/escorts under the National Command Wing and Independent Strategic Fighter Wings I through XX began to fuel and arm as appropriate; still deep within the confines of their mountain-recessed bases across the country, but ready to roar forth from the tunnel runways at a moment's notice should such be needed.

As far as sheer size went, Wagdog's OBSAT deployment over Mer des Ennuis was no heavier or lighter than it was anywhere else; what with Doomingsland having most of the attention at the moment due to the threat of conflict in the CAD region over Generia's break with the Doomani Empire. It could be increased, in principle; but that was quickly decided as foolish, since it would tip Wagdog's hand to the probable new foe and result in higher immediate losses than necessary. For now, the observation birds proper simply continued to spy on Ennusian strategic installations, covered by their armed brethren and with targeting birds also present should a prompt strike by some precision means be desired. Once the enemy moved, Wagdog would at least catch a blink of it before being blinded by any antisatellite actions of the Ennusians; hopefully enough of a blink for the appropriate counteractions to come into play...

OBSAT Space Command, Classified Location Vetaka:

"Sir take alook at this" spoke a OBSAT Operator from across the Screen.

The Watch Commander for the shift was actually Base Commander Grocott he moved nervously over to the Young Operator and looked at the Screen:

"What is it?"

"Griffin is picking up scattered attempted Intrusions across the Network" replied the Operator

"An Error?" enquired Grocott

"No Sir. The Intrusions whilst Scattered are precise. Id say its a Sourced Hack" replied the Operator

"Location?" ordered Grocott

"Should have it in a few minutes. Sir. We are bringing up the Dummy System when it hacker gets into the Dummy Sat we will counter-hack and force a Hack Location Scan" replied another Operator.

The computer screen worked away within 2 seconds the Screen Flashed:

"Dummy System Hacked. Location Scan in Progress"

A percentage bar appeared and it began to slowly fill up. In reality OBSAT's Griffin Systems where working hard and fast. The System via its Dummy Systems where giving the Hacker the ability to hack into a suppoesd OBSAT System in fact the Dummy didn't exsist. Once the Hacker took control of the Dummy the Dummy System connected with its new host and sent the hackers location via a Backdoor Key System back to OBSAT Space Command. Once this was complete Griffin would fake the Dummy System being Self Detonated so the hacker believed his OBSAT had been destroyed in some sort of All Purpose Security Contingency via the Space Command. Just before this detonation however the Dummy System via the Hackers own connections would send the host a file which was entitled "OBSAT001RecordBuffer.PWI" this was defined as the OBSAT Satellites last known task records for example it would send a picture or targetting data. In reality the file was a virus which would infect the Hackers System and target the Hackers Command Files and Executable Files with the intent to destroy the Hackers own Operating Systems. All this took minutes if not seconds to complete and as a result the Progress Bar now flashed:

"Complete"

The large main viewing screen changed to show a map a map of a nation people where somewhat confused at. Their on the HD Screen was Mes Des Ennuis the operator rather nervously spoke:

"We have the Nation but not a specific location"

"Alert VDF High Command" ordered the Base Commander.

Foreign Secretary's Office, Palace of Peace, Vetaka:

Just before the Ennusian Ambassador had entered Perry Cox had the pleasure of speaking to his good friend Supreme Commander Jonathon Stone:

"Have we now. Send it me through

Replacing the phone their was a knock followed by his door swinging open before he had chance to speak the Ennusian Ambassador had already spoken and handed him the Photograph. Cox gazed at this picture he sighed and looked up at the Ennusian:

"You better sit down. Drink?"

The Ennusian satdown and Cox handed him his drink sitting backdown Cox stared at the Ennusian before speaking:

"I am afraid to say I and my government cannot believe you. We cannot accept this explanation. First of all we have the assassin in our custody whom is claiming he was instructed to kill the President by a man he claims to by a top SSA Operative. We have also tracked his Weapons Origin back to Mes Des Ennuis as he claims to have been given it by this suppoesd SSA Operative. At first we didn't believe him we put it down to him trying to tell us what we wanted. That was until OBSAT Space Command tracked an attempted Hack of our system back to your nation?"

Cox paused for a minute before carrying on his tone becoming more serious that before:

"Your justification of Rogue SSA Elements is hardly valid now. Unless your entire Intelligence Service and Elements of your Military are now failing to follow your Governments intructions."

It was then that a man whom had been sat behind the Ambassador on a sofa spoke up:

"Lets cut to the chase. We all know that the hit on Scarlet was planned, directed and authorized by your Government maybe even by Adam Wincenty himself. We all know that and no level of Fall Guy Killings is going to make that go away. Why?"

Before the Ambassador had a chance to speak Cox spoke:

"We are a nation of Peace"

Across Vetaka:

Military Bases already on a heightened Alert where now at Full Alert and ready for immediate actions. The Vetakan Air Defence Forces where now running constant 24/7 Fighter Patrols. The Vetakan Navy was doing the same. The Army was deploying across the nation to Strategical and Tactical locations. Coastal Defences that had lay dormant where either brought online or manned. Air Defences did the same. City Defences where erected and Vetaka's huge Fortification complexes where brought out of stand down mode. For the first time in its history the massive New Theeb Fortifications where manned. The Great Gates where practiced being closed to ensure men knew what to do. The Vetakan Police Force whom where a Military Grade Force and recieved Military Grade training prepared themselves. The nations popluace where simply told this was a massive exercise little did they know.

Skys Above the New Manth 9th High Seas Force, Vetakan Waters:

"Testing Testing, This is Air Defence Patrol Alpha 12 Attention 9th High Seas Fleet. Alter your course to 230 and proceed to Clive Town Port to dock." spoke the Squadron Leader from his FA-15V Cardinal.

As they thundered over a second voice came over the Airways:

"9th High Seas Force, This is the Navalhawk 12 Supreme Admiral Charles Hornblower requesting an Audience with an old friend Copy?" spoke Hornblower from the Cockpit of the Eurafighter F-37C.

Since they had last met Hornblower had not only learnt to fly he had also learnt to be a Fighter Pilot and a Fighter he was.

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: VETAKAN HIGH COMMAND
TO: KAMPFERIAN HIGH COMMAND

CONFIRMED STOP REQUEST YOU DEPLOY TO PROTECT EMPIRE CITY AND DODGE CITY AS A PRIORITY STOP WE HAVE THE INTENTION TO DIRECT OTHER ALLIED FORCES TO PROTECT OTHER ZONES WHILST VDF DEPLOYS ACROSS NATION STOP EMPIRE AND DODGE PORT ARE AT YOUR DISPOSAL

THANK YOU FULL STOP

OOC I apologise for the shortness and crapness of this post I am really really tired.

For the first time since the Twelve Years War the entire Aurum Doman military was mobilised. The 1st Battle Fleet was already on its way to Vetaka and the 2nd Battle Fleet was already being assembled off Uber Prodigium. The Air Force began patrols around all of Aurum Domus and the colonies. OBSAT was brought up to full alertness. The Marine Corp had mobilised 3 divisions consisting of 15,000 men each. They were all ready to deploy at a moments notice. A black ops squad was fully readied, they would be deployed as soon as the first shots were fired. All of Aurum Domus was ready to kick ass and take names.

OOC: No but its not impossible to trace it back to your hackers. Nothing is impossible ill find a way. If not as you said on IRC take it as a bluff Cox can be a bit dirty for once.

A Young Secret Service Aid walked into the Jets lush presidential office; "Ma'am, Conference with the Chiefs" he said simply and Rene followed him out into the large video conferencing suit via secured satellite with a gigabit encrypted StrikeNet line that altered its codes and re-encrypted every 15 seconds. There was little to no chance of interception. The large display screen was broken down into several smaller screens each showing either a different member of the government, high-ranking armed forces or relevant data displays.

The screens showed Veteka's state of mobilisation and the relative fleet strength and positions of Animarnian Assets; the Animarnia Fleet itself having recently had a large boost with bought foreign ship systems and domestic projects rolling out into active service.

"Situation?" she asked quickly

"Madam President; the Vetekan Defence forces appear to be mobilising official word is this is all an exorcise however we firmly believe that they found whomever is responsible and are mobilising for a potential response" General Carville spoke up; as commander of the Chiefs it was his place to speak on such matters.

"The DeLèan is around an hour out from the rendezvous with the Vetekan forces however if conflict breaks out they will be largely out numbered and only have limited anthipbious assault capabilities of some 2000 odd Marines and few vehicles. However they do have a full compliment of the new F-16 Priest's and the AH-64E Sea Apache which no doubt would come in handy. I recommend sending the Lefaye and the Julianne to link up; there the closest and that would boot the Marine detachment to some 8000 over three battle groups and send the Rohan and the Nessa Assault groups. Use the two new Gargantuan Class instead of the Wasp Class and we can move nearly 44,000 Marines; over 3000 APC's, 400 Armoured Hummers and nearly 900 Scimitar Light Tanks; not to mention the Gargantuan alone can carry 35 Fixed Wing and 140 HELO's or VTOL's". The Admiral of the Navy added.

"Make is so; what about other plans?" she asked quickly

"Well Madam president it’s a little difficult to make planes without knowing the target but I'd say put the B-2 forces on Alert and transfer them to and prepare deep range Airbases for potential strikes; increase fighter patrols around all military bases and Bring the Cerberus defence network online and Man the city fortresses" General Granger of the airforce added in reply.

"I also want the 3rd and 4th Army groups mobilised for potential roll out. Alright Gentleman you have your orders" Rene said simple concluding the conference.

Across Animarnia the Threatcon was raised from 5 to 2 almost instantly and bases were put on full alert for potential combat; Threatcon 2 was the highest short of imminent nuclear exchange

Encrypyed Wire
Level: RED
From: Animarnia DoD
To: Vetekan, DoD

Our Sats have noted a state of increased readyness within Veteka and our forces are in a state of mobilisation and we have ordered an additional 2 Carrier Groups to link up with the Vetekan battlegroup to provide extra support and a Landing Assault Group will be leaving Animarnia in less than 48 hours though though admitadly we have no idea who we will be fighting yet, Animarnia stands with you

Regards
Matt Cartwright
Minister of Defence.

Willard’s face turned pale…

“I… honestly have no idea what the bloody hell you are talking about, and The Armed Republic takes a great deal of offense at these insinuations. The Armed Republic is above trechary of the sort you are baselessly accusing us of! If we had a grudge to settle, we would use a 2,000 pound smart bomb!”

He swallowed, hard, slightly enraged.

“I know nothing about these accusations of an attack on your OBSAT system, and again, you overestimate us. If we wanted to kill any system, it would be in a thousand tiny pieces in orbit!”

He took another sip of the drink, and composed himself.

“Mer des Ennuis has more firearms than people, as I’m sure you are well aware. The specs on rifle clearly indicate it came from Doomingsland… one of the largest arms dealers in the world!”

He slammed his glass down, cracking it slightly, and stood up.

“I understand that your nation is undergoing a tough time, but this is, quite frankly, a childish way to get back at our republic for condemning communism! I’d be in my right mind to declare your nation hostile! If you are so peaceful, why am I hearing that you have an armada assembled? We have nothing further to discuss.”

He walked out, slamming the door, and was on the phone in thirty seconds.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

“Jacek Stefan speaking.”

“General Stefan, is this line secure?”

“Yes sir, 256 bit encryption.”

“Good, I just got off the phone with our irate ambassador to Vetaka. They are accusing us of attempting to hack OBSAT… what would ever give them that idea?”

“Sir, they are bluffing.”

“Explain. Now.”

“Sir, Earth Array 1 triggered a trap door. When they attempted to back trace it, they triggered an automatic re-router in a show desktop in a Best Buy in Lerasia. That, in turn, deleted all the logs from five different servers around the globe. We have several systems around the country that act as dummies, and are unusually secure to hamper back-tracking efforts. We detected an attempt to upload a file to the original system, but a dummy outside of Port d’Honneur re-routed it to a proxy server in Clandonia, where it soon started broadcasting a tracking signal.”

“General…”

“Yes?”

“What the fuck does that mean?”

“It means that the Vetakans have no idea we did it. If anything, it looks like Clandonia did it. Sir, the last computer between us and the internet, that, if breached, would give us away, is on a laundry ship rounding Cape Horn, the HMS Walter Mondale. I’ve been informed that she is taking on water in a heavy gale, and we lost contact with that particular server.”

“Good… almost gave me a heart attack.”

“Any time, Sir.”

“I’m calling a meeting of the joint chiefs… I expect you in my office in twenty minutes.”

“Sir!”

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

The six military heads sat at a conference room just off of Adam Wincenty’s office. It had been scanned for bugs twenty minutes before… negative as always.

“Gentlemen, what is the status on Vetaka?”

“Sir, more naval assets have arrived off their waters” replied Admiral of the Navies Ivan Andrei. “We are taking no action, but are keeping our forces on alert, especially after this little spat.”

“Sir, we’ve finished isolating Wagdogian satellites around the globe.” This came from General of the Air Guard Martha Marjana.

“How many are weaponized?”

“No idea, sir.”

“We have survived these so-called ‘Rods from God’ before, and we will do so again. Have you targeted all Wagdogian satellites above our airspace?”

“Yes, sir. The s-400f mkIIs have locks and are ready to kill them in less than two minutes from launch to impact.”

“Do we have any air assets over them?”

“Yes, sir. Just observational satellites, mostly weather and commercial related. The Exodus satellites, as protocol dictates, have been shut down to avoid a decapitation strike, and are moving randomly over pre-designated points.”

“Good, good. General Stefan, what is the status of our bomber force?”

“Fueled and ready to go. We have 15% ready to begin strategic bombing of Vetaka and Wagdog at a moment’s notice. Fighters are also ready to scramble at the drop of a pin, should early warning detect anything short of high-earth orbit out of the way.”

Adam sat back, pleased.

“So, really, the only thing that got fucked is the fact that Scarlet is still alive?”

The others nodded, though none spoke.

“That is good, I suppose… but this rhetoric and this build up make me believe we may have tipped our hand in some unforeseen way… Kaspyr, I want you to move men into position around the Vetakan embassy, but keep them covert. We are going to pull back the guard units; give the Vetakans some breathing room, but I want a team ready to take the embassy should the Vetakans do something stupid.”

“Sir, I can arrange that. I’ll position a dozen scout snipers around the building, line of sight, but at least 600 meters away, anti-material rifles. I’ll station a Death’s Head unit in the building next to the embassy, should we need to breach.”

“Sir,” interrupted Jacek, “I’ll loiter a SuE-1 Scanner over their embassy, and we’ll move a few sats over it; we’ll track anyone who enters or leave. We can follow them covertly, see who they are meeting with, see what they are doing, you know.”

“Sounds good… I approve. Don’t disappoint me this time.”

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

“Men, gather around!” shouted the Guard Captain, who had been sitting in the mobile command post parked outside the embassy gates.

“MI says that the threat against the Vetakans has been quelled with the recent raids. We’ve been ordered to pack up and return to base. This comes from the top!”

It took only an hour, but the roadblocks and heavy weapons nests were disassembled, to the point where the only sign of the soldier’s presence was some mildly torn up pavement and the occasional lump of sand. None of the Vetakans knew that they were on the wrong side of a 13mm.

"This is bad."

Chancellor Fitzgerald sat in the cliched darkened room with half a dozen generals and admirals. The speaker repeated himself.

"This is real bad. First the attack on the President, and now this."

"Yes, thank you for that, Avery," he said dryly. "Now, everyone, we've all heard the report. Mer des Ennuis is likely behind the assassination attempt on Vetakan President Scarlet Rogers. Wagdog, Kampfers and Animarnia are mobilising. As a new member of the UFAN, we are duty-bound to assist our allies, of course. We deploy to Vetaka. What can you give me, people?"

"Mr Chancellor, with our deployment to Generia, our forces will be stretched somewhat."

"Oh, nonsense. The Hamilayan military numbers twenty million in peacetime, and we don't even have two million in Generia. Surely there is no imminent threat against the homeland that I haven't been informed of?"

"We're lacking in assets at the moment, as we're still rebuilding." spoke up Grand Admiral McIver, commander of the Hamilayan Navy. "All we have left to send is Avenger or Liberator, one of the two, and maybe three or four carrier groups, half what would normally be assigned to a fleet battle group. I concede we should have a full fleet group up and ready to sail in a few weeks, leaving ample defence at home, but that's all we've got now. Also, if a dreadnought goes, since the Tribute-class has been cancelled, the only heavy warship we have left to defend is Sentinel, and I'm not sure how well she can hold up."

"Here is what we'll do, then. I'll consult with the President later today, once he's feeling up to it, but I want two carrier groups in Vetaka ASAP. Have Avenger ready to go, and get a fleet group together to send with her. You've got a week. Air Marshal Chartrand, your strategic bombers?"

"Too many are in Generia. Two hundred Blackjacks and the new Nightriders, as well as a lot of fighters. You want bombers ready targeted over Ennuis, yes?" At the Chancellor's nod, the diminutive Marshal continued. "All right then. I make no promises, but I will have as many Tu-160s ready as possible. Perhaps five hundred at maximum, but I make no promises. The Nightriders are, as always, in a state of constant readiness, and most of them will fly on our orders. Fighters may be a problem, as home defence must be taken into account. I have no numbers on that at the moment, and we may have to send the old thirty-sevens and thirty-fives." Chancellor Fitzgerald understood the military parlance, and needed not ask for clarification- the older MiG-35 and Su-37s, still in wide usage in the Hamilayan Air Force, but outdated by the Flatpack and Berkut models.

"And finally..."

Army looked smug, though it was hard to tell in the darkened room, at being the one to report the best news. "There are no problems there. I can have two, three million troops to go when you wish, but less if we plan on increasing our committment in Generia further, which I have heard we may do. Nonetheless, the Hamilayan Army is ready, and it is just a question of finding the ships to carry them."

"Well done, Bennett. All right. Get to work, everyone. Good luck."

TRANSMISSION
RHS Heartland Shield/RHS Eternal Guard/BG to Vetakan/Allied Naval Forces

The Federal Republic of Hamilay sends its apologies at this time for not being able to send more aid to our allies in the Federation. Further warships are on the way, and my two carrier groups are at your disposal. Hamilay stands ready to fight. As many ground forces as are needed may be called upon if necessary, and bombers are preparing. Although it is most likely not needed at this time, Vetaka has offered Hamilay the use of the OBSAT system, and we return the favour by offering the use of the GS Missile Defence (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=499319) network.

END

SIC1: The High Command was again assembled in the War Room, this time planning a deployment to Vetaka. Gen. Oliver got up and addressed the other commanders and the President. "Gentlemen, we have a situation. As many of you read in the paper last week, somebody attempted to kill Vetakan Pres. Scarlet Rogers. Vetaka is our ally in UFAN, so an attack against them is an attack against us. I recommend we mobilize all of 1st and 2nd Corps, as well as 5th Marine Division and our UFAN Rapid Response Team to Vetaka. Having somebody on the ground is gonna come in mighty handy if and when an invasion happens. Better to get them in there now before the fighting starts than have our boys landing on the beaches in a hail of gunfire." The President considered this proposition carefully. "This amounts to the greatest deployment of our ground forces to date," he said after a long silence. "We have two major hurdles to clear before we get this show on the road. First, we need Congress to declare a state of international crisis so we can mobilize. Second, we need Vetakan approval. Once you have those things in hand, come back to me," he said. "Will do, sir," Gen. Oliver responded.

Later that day, Congress
The assembled congress were debating this executive order hotly. The President's request was not easy for them to swallow, considering that their most recent war turned into a quagmire. After a long debate, the vote came in. The Speaker of Congress announced the vote total. "By a combined vote of 251-249, Congress approves the proposed deployment of troops to Vetaka." That was it. After three hours of debate, two votes had put the nation back at war.

The next day, Presidential War Room
Gen. Oliver threw the paperwork authorizing the deployment down on the long table at which the High Command sat. "There we have it folks, we are cleared for deployment. How long until we can move out?," he asked. "That depends on what the Vetakans say. If all goes according to plan, we should be moving out within the week," The President responded.

TO: VETAKAN HIGH COMMAND
FROM: CENTRAL PRESTONIAN HIGH COMMAND
SUBJECT: PROPOSED DEPLOYMENT

SECURE TRANSMISSION

WE REQUEST TO SEND TROOPS STOP.
TROOPS WILL CONSIST OF 1ST & 2ND CORPS, 5TH MARINES, AND UFAN RAPID RESPONSE TEAM STOP.
TOTAL FORCE WILL BE 110,825 TROOPS STOP.
ARE THESE TERMS ACCEPTABLE FULL STOP.

9th High Seas Force

"Copy that Alpha 12. Setting course for Clive Town..."

The communications officer pauses for the second transmission.

"...Admiral Arvando?"

The Admiral merely nods.

"Right... Navalhawk 12, this is the 9th High Seas Force. We would be pleased to have you. A Jackal will be sent to escort you to the Ismailia if you wish. Fleet Admiral Arvando and the ship's officers will stand by to receive your visit."

(Sorry for the quick post, its midnight here...)

SIC:

Empire City, Vetaka

Planes of troops landing were now commonplace. Thousands of Kampferian soldiers were pouring into Vetaka. The total estimated Kampferian force to be deployed was approximately 5 million soldiers. Recent Questarian Commonwealth/Sovereign League and Gholgoth/NATO bickering had seen the number of total enlisted soldiers in Kampfers balloon from around 5 million to over 15 million. Now, 5 million of those soldiers were going to be in Vetaka, and the other 10 million would be guarding the homeland.

General Klischten was the first man to step off a plane. He wore urban combat fatigues, and was decked out as if someone was going to shoot him the second he stepped off the plane. Unlike most modern Generals, Klischten led from the front. An ex-special forces soldier, he had gained the respect of his soldiers by leading them in battle, time and time again. It pained him that so many generals today had become the aptly described REMF's, or Rear Echelon Mother Fuckers. These men sent their men off to fight their wars for them with no care or concern for loss of life. While there was a place for these types of men, Richtoff knew it wasn't in the army. He wanted every man he deployed to come home safely, even if he had to take the bullet for them. His presence boosted the morale of the men he was fighting alongside.

The Third and Seventh Fleets split up, the Third going to Empire City, and the Seventh going to Dodge City. The Second and Fourth Fleets were steaming on in, and would divide also, with the Second going to Empire City, and the Fourth going to Dodge City.

Construction was underway on the beaches to create a death trap for any soldiers that might attempt to land there. Kampferian soldiers were learning how to use the coastal guns, many remnants from Vetaka's time in the Dominion Commonwealth. Claymores were laid on the beach, along with tank traps, barbed wire, and various other instruments of obstruction and death. Kampferian made inflatable buildings were deployed along the beach edge, but they were quickly being replaced by more permanent structures and bunkers.

In the cities, barricades were being erected. Males from the ages of 18-24 were armed with guns to start a resistance if the city fell. M-200 Desolaters were set up at startegic points in the city. From their locations, they would be able to rain 500mm shells upon soldiers on the beach, their boarding craft, and people entering the city. They also had camoflauge draped over and around them to disguise them from ariel surveillance. Heavy Tanks were hidden in alleyways and soldiers gathered around as they set up strategic ambush points all over the city. These would be there to fall back upon, and would quell the Mer des Ennuis approach long enough for the Kampferians to regroup should the first parts of the city fall. Snipers were strategically located along roadways and in tall buildings. Certain buildings were pinned as "Safe Houses". These would house soldiers and would serve as hospitals during the time of battle.

The whole civilian force of the cities rallied around the soldiers. They voulntarily shut down the assorted civilian airports to allow for their use as military bases and Air Force runways. Many civilians volunteered to help the soldiers construct makeshift defenses.

Klischten walked up to the head of the Kampferian Air Force operations in Vetaka. "I want planes circling our head day and night, ya hear? Nobody bombs this city."

The air force man waved to a few pilots, who ran over and climbed into their F-19 Knights. They warmed up their engines and shot into the sky. At all times of day and night, an assortment of F-19 Knights, GEM Cardinals, X-35 MFI's, and F-00's could be seen circling the cities. The F-00's, a little used plane, oftentimes drew gaping responses from civilians lucky enough to see them.

If Mer des Ennuis struck here, they would be given one hell of a fight. General Klischten fired off a message to the Vetakans.

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: GENERAL KLISCHTEN, KAMPFERS
TO: VETAKAN HIGH COMMAND

CITIES OF EMPIRE AND DODGE WELL DEFENDED. STOP.
DO NOT NEED VETAKAN REINFORCEMENTS, BUT IT IS YOUR DIGRESSION. STOP.
COULD USE THE PRESTONIAN AND ANIMARNIAN NAVAL SUPPORT. STOP.
FEAR THAT WAGDOG MAY BE ATTACKED AT HOME AS WELL AS VETAKA. STOP.
SUGGEST THAT NEW MANTH FORCES HELP THERE. STOP.
GOOD LUCK MY BROTHERS. FULL STOP.

Vetakan Coastal Waters

After several weeks, the 1st Battle Fleet had finally arrived. The 2nd Battle Fleet wasn't far behind. The ships took up position around Vetakan coastal waters and fighter jet patrols began. The relatively small contingent of Marines aboard, around 8,000, were ferried into Vetaka on a continous helicopter transport. These weren't the only Marines that would defend Vetaka. Two divisions were ready to deploy as soon as war was declared.

To: Vetakan Central Command
From: Fleet Admiral Patrick Nicks

Great to be here guys, any specific task you need the Marines to accomplish? All 8,000 are at your disposal. Any specific city that the fleet should concentrate on defending? I speak for the entire republic when I say that Aurum Domus is behind you one hundred percent. No one will ever succeed in taking Vetaka as long as any Aurum Doman still lives.

OOC: Jon need to talk to you about something before I make the next major post. See you on IRC later.

OOC: Dan, feel free to TG me any questions/concerns you have; I won't be on IRC for at least 10 hours

War Office Briefing Room Underground Bunker Complex; Palace of the Revolution, Tailville DR
"Yep; that proves it, they're clearly getting ready to start something." General Secretary Charles Lind couldn't help but notice the obvious Ennusian naval movements, but what really telegraphed their intentions to him was all the bomber base activity OBSAT was picking up. Although the increased activity at those air defense sites known was worrisome as well, it was unclear just how many of them were ASAT capable or not; hence, there was less that could be planned there aside from rudimentary ideas to be executed only upon further refinement and after things had 'gone hot' at last. "Their rising bomber force readiness shown in the latest recon orbits proves it. So far, given what we've detected, no indications of any WMD 'first-strike' as-such; but tons of preparation for a conventional kickoff as I'm sure we'll all agree.

"Hence, those authorized should head for their NEACPs and we should get the first dedicated interceptors into the air for standing patrols as a precaution. I want us to be wheels-up on airlifting ground forces to Vetaka just as soon as their request comes in; if need be, to fight their way in under fighter escort." Among of the advantages of having only a semi-independent Air Force was that it conferred an essentially self-deploying Army upon a nation, assuming of course enough time to complete the many individual airlifts required to haul all the stuff a modern major ground formation needed to even remotely function. That, and a reduction in interservice bickering over who got the most proverbial 'nukes and bucks'; although only to a point, the fundamental nature of service bureucracies remaining unchanged as yet.

Defense Secretary Iliescu knew it was a tired old point, but nonetheless felt like asking anyway. "Request? You mean we're actually going to wait for the Vetakans to ask before we defend them?" He knew the answer that would come, but again felt like making what rhetorical point about the aspects of the Vetakan/Wagdian alliance he personally felt were left too ambiguous for practicality's sake.

General Secretary Lind sighed. "Yes Mario... their request. You know how Vetakans are about their independence, and they emphatically are not our puppet-state however much Arch-Arsonist Wincenty or Premier Sistillin might argue otherwise; end of story. They have the right to say 'no' to our help entirely if they so decide, although I know they won't since this fight is for 'all the marbles' as can be said; and whatever rights they decide to invoke I will respect, make no mistake. But all the same, let's get ready to send what we can until they decide to invoke any restrictions on it; then send what they'll allow and leave the rest to those in the fight. Agreed, all?"

The same crew as before, the Defense and Acting-State and Interior Secretaries plus Charles' wife Christine, the Deputy General Secretary, all nodded. The plans had been drawn up by the relevant service staffs, and discussed ad nauseam in this bunker facility some 415m underground, deep enough to perhaps resist even a Falling Hammer strike or at least reduce any damage done. Now was simply the time for the curtain to rise and the actors to play their parts. The politicians moved out to do their respective duties, Interior Secretary Elaine Willams being headed for her own Il-87 Maxdome NEACP per her status as second-in-line to the General Secretariat after Christine; both women being legitimate successors to Charles in their turn should anything fatal or incapacitating happen to the individual ahead of them in power.

Christine moved up to Charles, silently embracing him as she allowed one single tear to flow down her cheek as it touched his, for she knew she might not see him for the duration of the war if ever again; as per Continuity of Government regulations, she was bound to board a separate Maxdome aircraft from him to minimize the odds of a successful decapitation strike on the Wagdian General Secretariat which by law could only be held by the highest-ranking members of the Wagdian Revolutionary Party. True, they could teleconference if needed to direct the war effort together, but that was no substitute for having the one you'd built a revolution and nation together with physically near to you; to console you as the bombs fell, and fight beside you should it all come crashing down and the streets of your hometown become abbatoirs amidst the desperate last battle to repel the enemy. "For us... and for Scarlet, Charles?" The steel was cracking, even if still there; clearly she was afraid even if resolved to her duties.

Holding her near, murmuring his agreement as he beheld her impish face, wire-rimmed glasses and shoulder-length honey-blonde hair; virtually the same face he'd met back in 1972 after his coming to university once finished with his draft service in Vietnam, where he'd finally been radicalized into the revolutionary he was today despite having served loyally and with distinction all the same at the time. Virtually the same sorority girl; that bizarre dimension-tripping Event which had made 20 years from 1976 to 1996 disappear over the course of a November night for Wagdog had indeed altered much for these two lovers, even something so basic as the aging process which had apparently been slowed to a crawl for both. "Yes love... For Scarlet, and for our shared Dream of Freedom in Progress."

He held her for what seemed an eternity of perfect peace amid the gathering storm, before at last letting go with a passionate kiss and allowing them both to part ways for their designated command post aircraft. Should any Falling Hammers demolish the Palace of the Revolution, their home these past few years of Wagdian prominence on the interantional stage since its' completion just before that fateful first war against the so-called 'Almighty Strator', the Palace of Soviets knockoff with a bunker complex beneath it as far underground as it was tall would be empty of the officials the Ennusian attack would seek to kill; aside from perhaps a few leftover staffers to ensure minimal functionality. Maximum damage for minimal effect; hardly an auspicious start to any campaign against Wagdog should such an attack be attempted, whatever might be its theoretical propaganda value to the bleeding-heart conservatives of the world...

Air, Army Bases across Wagdog...
The activity at the airfields had actually picked up; yes, it was possible despite the seeming enormity of what had already been turned into routine by now. Cautiously, and in rotation so as to not overstress their own logistical support or give the Ennusians too many palpitations, Red Fox interceptors took to the skies from their mountain-recessed bases; making for the racetrack orbits where the Midas tankers would keep them aloft as best as possible, far enough at the edge of Wagdian airspace to either preemptively-intercept any raids on Wagdog proper or else contribute to Vetakan air defense. So as to preserve their stealth abilities as long as possible, speed was to be withheld to Mach 2.7 maximum-supercruise unless specifically ordered otherwise by the relevant Wing and Squadron commanders in a battle situation; lower still when just holding a patrol pattern or refuelling, in which subsonic velocities were acceptable if not (in fact) optimal.

And more-importantly than the interceptors' case, the relevant airfields involved in airlifting troops to Vetaka's defense were abustle with the necessary activity. Tanks, artillery, personnel and carriers thereof, and tons upon tons of supplies were being marshaled and loaded as-appropriate onto a giant-scale menagerie of the Soviet-style transport fleet; everything from tiny An-72 Coalers to the mammoth An-225 Cossacks charged with ferrying tanks and similarly-gargantuan loads by the bushel to wherever the National Command Authority had 'needed them yesterday' as Marshal Murphy always saw to it being the case. As soon as Vetakan permission came down, the lift would begin; and Vetakan ground would have Wagdian boots and wheels and treads equally as sworn to its defense as natives, in numbers sure to be appreciable even if still hazy in upper-limit terms.

Clearly, by air a message was being sent to Arch-Arsonist Wincenty; assuming as a matter of course that his own spy satellites were active over Wagdog and allowing him to read it. Effectively, it read as follows: "If you want to go after Vetaka... if you REALLY want to attack them for your problem with our chosen way of life, which in our respect for them as people we allow the Vetakans to differ from; then you are no better than the Clandonians, Fighting Stars, and Undead Falcons who tried and failed in this same stupid endeavor before you. And like said Fighting Stars, compared to whom the Clandonians and Falconians were actually quite lucky, you shall have to deal with a new factor to add into your correlations-of-forces. That is, you shall have to deal... with us!" The spirit of the Wagdian-Vetakan alliance in a nutshell; and this time, without the paranoid xenophobia of Haven to stand in its way, soon the letter would be in action as well...

Presidential War Room, 1400 Hours
The High Command was again assembled to discuss the recent buildup of UFAN forces in anticipation of an Enniusian strike. The President had a casual air about him, and this translated to all of his commanders. "Boys, we've got one hell of a buildup going on here," he said. "Kampfers has already sent troops to Vetaka, knowing them Vetaka is pretty much secure. That leaves me with two worries. First, somebody needs to reinforce Wagdog. I doubt the invasion will come there but still, better safe than overrun. My second worry is naval superiority. We don't know how big the Enniusian fleet is, but I'd rather not find out when they're blasting our guys. What can you guys do to relieve my worries?" Admiral Kowalski spoke first. "I can send First Fleet to Vetakan waters to aid the other navies in the theater." "Good, I like it, what else we got?," Preston replied. Gen. Oliver was next to offer forces. "We can send 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Corps from the Army. First has some battle experience, the others are green units." Finally, the Marine Commandant spoke up. "5th and 13th Marine Divisions are available. 13th was involved in Tatom but 5th needs some war under it's belt. Also, I'm thinking now would be a good time to use the UFAN Rapid Response Unit." "Ok, I like it," Preston replied. "I'll wire Wagdog and see if they mind us sending troops. Kowalski, you send the orders to First Fleet. Let's move out people. Meeting adjourned."

TO: WAGDIAN HIGH COMMAND
FROM: PRESTONIAN HIGH COMMAND
SECURE TRANSMISSION

BELIEVE VETAKA TO BE SECURE STOP.
CONCERNED ABOUT POSSIBLE INVASION OF WAGDOG STOP.
REQUEST TO SEND TROOPS STOP.
TROOPS ARE TWO MARINE DIVISIONS, TWO ARMY CORPS AND UFAN RRT (RAPID RESPONSE TEAM) STOP.
TOTAL TROOPS TO BE 158,325 STOP.
IS THIS ACCEPTABLE FULL STOP.

VDF Operational Command Room, VDF High Command, New Theeb, Vetaka:

The entire Vetakan High Command which consisted not only of the Military Chiefs but also the Vetakan Cabinet sat around the huge long Oak Table within the Command Room that was deep down within the Earth. At the head of the table sat President Scarlet Rogers not in her usual leather chair but in a wheelchair the room was silent as they listerned via Loudspeaker to Ambassador Whitehall making contact with the Ennusian Leader himself if war was going to break out Scarlet at leasted wanted to try and avert it with diplomatic and peaceful means. After a few minutes Whitehall spoke his voice travelling thousands of miles across the globe:

"Standby Madam President we are just connecting you now"

After a few more minutes Whitehall spoke again:

"You are live Ma'am, may I present to you, Adam Wincenty, Arch Arsonist of Mer des Ennuis"

Scarlet took a breath and spoke:

"It is a pleasure to speak to you Adam, What the hell is going on? I am not accusing you, your government or your military forces of anything. My Foreign Secretary never made the accusation against you, that wasn't the intention any how. Yet you cannot blame us for coming to the conclusion, I have the assasin custody telling us this was an SSA hit authorised by your leadership. I have OBSAT Space Command telling me I have intrusions on my network instrusions that are at present undetectable but we are working on it, Coincidence? Your government condems the Vetakan Government for its foreign policy, threatening and I quote "limited military action" and then a few days later an Ennusian Sniper takes a shot at me. A few hours after that Sniper Attack attempted OBSAT hacks are made Coincidence? I and much of International Community find that hard to believe. Now I have no evidence to support this theory so you will not see us publiclly accusing you but If I where to make a bet I reckon id get good odds."

She stopped and looked around at her associates they all remained silent as they waited for the reply. A reply many assumed would be full of anger.

-=-=-=-=-=-The Office of the Arch Arsonist, Mer de Noms-=-=-=-=-=-

“Sir, as you can see, the Wagdogians are becoming more militant. I wouldn’t be surprised if they try and spread the ‘dictatorship of the proletariat’ further in the near future, the scum that they are. I’m sure they fear that we will attack them; or they are planning a move against us with the assembled fleets in Vetaka.”

“General, we will bury them if it comes to that!” laughed Adam, “Your bombers will be the tip of the spear, if it comes to that. The forces of UFAN are weak reds! We are the army that beat back the dogs of Kraven! We will roll them over!”

“Yes, sir, we will” laughed General Stefan.

“Sir, I have the Vetakan President on the line” buzzed Adam’s secretary Joyce over the intercom.

“Right.” He said, raising his hand to tell the general to remain quiet. “Patch her through.”

“One moment please.”

The line went dead, and came back.

“It is a pleasure to speak to you, ma’am, and I’m glad to hear that you are alive.”

"It is a pleasure to speak to you Adam, What the hell is going on? I am not accusing you, your government or your military forces of anything. My Foreign Secretary never made the accusation against you, that wasn't the intention any how. Yet you cannot blame us for coming to the conclusion, I have the assasin custody telling us this was an SSA hit authorised by your leadership. I have OBSAT Space Command telling me I have intrusions on my network instrusions that are at present undetectable but we are working on it, Coincidence? Your government condems the Vetakan Government for its foreign policy, threatening and I quote "limited military action" and then a few days later an Ennusian Sniper takes a shot at me. A few hours after that Sniper Attack attempted OBSAT hacks are made Coincidence? I and much of International Community find that hard to believe. Now I have no evidence to support this theory so you will not see us publiclly accusing you but If I where to make a bet I reckon id get good odds."

Adam took a quick drink of water, and prepared his diatribe. He was surprisingly calm throughout, and it unnerved Jacek.

“Scarlet, the SSA has a history of acting on its own and against its better interests. Carpathia Ziemowit himself was killed at their hands in a failed coup. Everyone involved, to the best of my knowledge, with the assassination attempt has been either captured or killed. I furthermore have authorized no action against OBSAT, and I resent these accusations. Mer des Ennuis does not tolerate the stain of communism! They have killed many thousands of their own countrymen in our nation, and millions more abroad! I don’t know why you insist on allying with the human stain that is Wagdog, but we have no quarrel with you. I strongly urge you to mind your tongue on these matters; you might bite off more than you are prepared to chew.”

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: VDF HIGH COMMAND
TO: GENERAL KLISCHTEN, KAMPFERS

THREAT TOWARDS WAGDOG IDENTIFIED STOP MOVING TO NEUTRALISE SAID THREAT STOP VDF REINFORCEMENTS DEPLOYED TO ASSIST STOP TOTAL MAN POWER 500,000 TROOPS STOP POLICE FORCE ARE MILITARY GRADE AND AT YOUR COMMAND TOTAL MAN POWER 50,000 FULL STOP

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: VDF HIGH COMMAND
TO: FLEET ADMIRAL, PATRICK NICKS

REQUEST YOUR FORCES DEPLOY TO INLAND AREA OF PIPER LAKE TO SECURE THE LAKE CITY AND WATERWAYS FROM POSSIBLE ENEMY USE STOP VDF REINFORCEMENTS DEPLOYED TOTAL MANPOWER 500,000 STOP POLICE FORCE ARE MILITARY GRADE AND TOTAL MANPOWER STANDS AT 4,000 FULL STOP

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: VDF HIGH COMMAND
TO: RHS ETERNAL GUARD

THANK YOU MY FRIENDS DEPLOY WHATEVER YOU FEEL IS REQUIRED STOP REQUEST YOUR MILITARY FORCES DEPLOY TO REINFORCE ANIMARINIAN MILITARY ASSETS AT NEW HELGAN STOP REQUEST GS MISSILE DEFENCE SYSTEM BE EMPOLYED OVER NEW HELGAN AND LA ROCKA AREARS FULL STOP

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: VDF HIGH COMMAND
TO: USSW WAR OFFICE

DEEPLY CONCERNED REGARDING THREAT TO WAGDOG HOMELAND SECURITY STOP REQUEST PERMISSION TO DIVERT UFAN FORCES TO WAGDOG AREA OF OPERATIONS STOP WHILST WE ARE STUBBORN SHOULD YOU WISH TO DEPLOY REQUEST MILITARY FORCES BE DEPLOYED TO NEW THEEB AREA OF OPERATIONS STOP NEW THEEB CAPITAL DEFENCES BE REINFORCED AS WELL AS WELL AS NEW THEEB FORTIFICATIONS STOP 1ST VDF ARMY AND 1ST VDF RESERVE ARMIES ARE ALREADY DEPLOYED STOP NEW THEEB MILITIA DEFENCE FORCES READY TO ARM AS REQUIRED STOP PROJECTED MANPOWER FOR CAPITAL DEFENSIVE MANPOWER STANDS AT 3.1 MILLION PERSONNEL AS WELL AS THE STUBBORN POPULATION STOP DEPLOY ONLY WHAT YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH STOP REQUEST PERMISSION TO SEND SCOUTS TO PROTECT CHARLES AND CHRISTINE FULL STOP

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u295/razgriz-demon/MapofVetaka.jpg

As word came from Vetaka about the new deployments the 1st Battle Fleet started moving. The 2nd Battle Fleet was just arriving so it join the 1st Battle Fleet in the new deployment. The Marines began packing up and leaving for the Piper Lake. The smaller vessels deployed into the rivers while the larger ones stood guard at the mouth of each river.

OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
TO: VDF HIGH COMMAND
FROM: PRESTONIAN HIGH COMMAND

WE HAVE REQUESTED TO SEND TROOPS TO WAGDOG STOP.
NUMBERS TO BE APPROX. 150,000 STOP.
HOWEVER WE FEEL THAT THESE FORCES CANNOT STOP A FULL ENNIUSIAN OFFENSIVE STOP.
WOULD LIKE TO SEE SOME FORCES DIVERTED FROM VETAKAN THEATER TO WAGDOG STOP.
HIGH COMMAND FEELS THAT ENNIUSIAN OFFENSIVE IS MOST LIKELY TO OCCUR IN WAGDOG GIVEN SUBSTANTIAL BUILDUP IN VETAKA STOP.
WE INTEND TO SEND APPROX 300,000-350,000 TROOPS TOTAL PENDING WAGDIAN APPROVAL FULL STOP.


OOC: I don't technically have my own OBSAT but I assumed that given my alliance with UFAN and the wartime situation that nobody would mind me using their OBSAT. If anyone objects I'll go revise it.

VDF Operational Command Room, VDF High Command, New Theeb, Vetaka:

Scarlet sighed although she was the famous Vetakan Iron Women of a Foreign Secretary she had developed a tendancy to snap at those whom insulted her Wagdog allies, sipped her drink as she fought to control the raising anger:

"A Human Stain? A founding member of an alliance to promote Democracy, Freedom, Human Rights and World Peace? A founding signatory of the Theeb Accords and the Strando Protocal? A natiom whom bravely fights the good fight around the world regardless of Political Ideology. Yet they are a Human Stain? If they are a stain then so are we, I hold no grudge neither do I hold any quarrel with Mes Des Ennuis. However should you move against Wagdog Vetaka will defend them to the last."

-=-=-=-=-=-The Office of the Arch Arsonist, Mer de Noms-=-=-=-=-=-

Adam leaned back, smirking slightly. Jacek knew that the General was in his element, he had seen it before.

"The goading will begin any minute now..." he thought bemusedly.

"Madam president, if you say so, it must be true. Rest assured, if we had serious designs against the socialistic scum of Wagdog, there would be no "dictatorship of the people" left in that nation. We have expressed no interest in attacking anyone of late, yet Vetaka has amassed an armada on her shores that, I suppose to a lesser nation, would look mighty. I find it amusing, you call me up and insult me and my nation with these false accusations, and then accuse us of planning to wage war against a pathetic state that is soon to collapse under its own bloated bureaucracy at the mighty light of God and capitalism, but that is irrelevant. Scarlet, Scarlet, Scarlet, you have become what you accuse us of being: a warmonger. Your allies are present for an unseen threat, a threat that has only materialized to be a crazed man, a rifle, and a bullet-ridden corpse of a traitor. Tell me Scarlet, are you trying to bale political hay out of this? Have your people grown tired of communist friends, and you are in need of a scapegoat?”

He laughed slightly, as if seeing a larger picture that wasn’t there.

“Rest assured, Miss Rogers, if you dare threaten the Armed Republic in any tangible way… we will ravage your lands and salt the earth. The streets will flow in a torrent of blood, and the screams of the dying will never leave the barren wasteland you will become. None will be spared. Do not test us, it is a road you do not want to go on.”

Jacek couldn't help but notice his own hand was shaking...

VDF Operational Command Room, VDF High Command, New Theeb, Vetaka:

"Then we have nothing left to say to eachother then. Good Bye my Friend"

Scarlet turned to a nearby Comms Office and swiftly brought her hand across her throat to signal to cut the transmission, The Line died and Scarlet exhaled her breath. Stone was first to speak:

"Well that was an eye opener. Needless to say the VSIS Profile on Adam was a total flop and does him no favours. I think the words Monster and Paranoid. Spring to mind"

Pearce replied:

"In the same situation I can't say I wouldn't of reacted as he has. Think of it from his point of view. Anyway options?"

"We remain at Full Alert" replied Stone

"I agree" spoke Roger Dudson Chief of Staff for the Army.

"We can't. We are the aggressor here. We have massed a massive fleet and what for?" Nothing." spoke Scarlet

"I say we do nothing, We sit on our hands, Scarlet makes a Press Release to the nation. We won't be made the aggressor we justify the build up as a UFAN Wide Exercise and remain built up for a few weeks. Hopefully the dust will settle and we can all just chill the fuck out for abit. After that ill go on a state visit to Mes Des Ennuis meet Adam, repair relations perhaps do something Pro Capitalist, Pro Ennusian. Within a few months it will be water under the bridge and in a few years will be nothing more than a footnote in the history books" spoke Pearce

At the nods of approvement around the room Scarlet rose spoke dismissed sat backdown and was wheeled out of the room into a nearby rest room to lay down the baby was really kicking now.

OOC: Its time I went to bed.

OOC: We're gonna end it just like that? No war? Damn.....

New Theeb National Airport
Rene's plane touched down at the Vetekan Airport and taxied to a secured terminal having pre-announced themselves before landing it had been quite a while since she had been in Veteka and even then that was in old Veteka; she looked around the terrain had changed but it still had a very Vetekan feel to it as she descended the staircase.

In front and behind were two Secret Service armed with JB168 Assault Rifles and DAC-99's for side arms and flanked around her in a circle formation were the all female Shinigami Soldiers dressed in complete black and carried an array of swords, daggers and pistols as well as Modified P90's to her left was Sam her personal body guard and to her right was Kara the assistant director of Intelligence.

The group approached the Terminal to meet any representative that may be in the area though Rene certainly didn't expect any this was more of a personal visit than an official state one.

OOC: We're gonna end it just like that? No war? Damn.....

OOC: No, it isn't over, hardly, me and vetaka are just trying to think of a plausible way to make this a war... I think we're on to something... I'll have an IC post up some time tomorrow evening; not much more for me to do; writing that my SSBNs are stalking the seas as usual is hardly worth an IC post, along with the usual submarine fleet movements.

OOC: Damn it, I was hoping that this would end so I could use my forces in an upcoming war... I won't abandon Vetaka though...

OOC: What war do you want to get into? If you're thinking about joining that massive NATO vs. QC/SL war in the works, I'd advise against it. AMF tips the balance of power decidedly in NATOs favor.

OOC: What war do you want to get into? If you're thinking about joining that massive NATO vs. QC/SL war in the works, I'd advise against it. AMF tips the balance of power decidedly in NATOs favor.

OOC: No, I almost got in that, but a few things wouldn't have worked out so I canceled. I am talking about something a little more hush hush, and that's all I'm going to say.

OOC: Is the exchange between Rogers and Wincenty seen by Vetaka's allies?

The Empire-class carrier Heartland Shield cut through the Vetakan waters, with a dozen escorts around it. In the distance to the south the second Hamilayan battlegroup could be seen. On the conning tower, Admiral David Rosenthal turned away from it and strode to the other side of the bridge room, looking at the Vetakan coast to the north.

"Nice place, Admiral."

A young woman, twenty years Rosenthal's junior, walked up by his side. The Shield's commanding officer, Captain Hawkins, was newly raised to the captaincy of an Empire-class, and as the most prestigious command in the Hamilayan navy, save the three dreadnoughts and possibly the Lord-class battleships, she was perhaps a little too eager. A capable officer, though.

"You've been to Vetaka, Captain?"

Hawkins chuckled quietly. "No, sir. A few friends. So, just hearsay, really. We're coming up on the rendezvous point in five minutes."

"Good. Inform the Animarnians of our arrival. Get me Naval HighCom on the line."

Captain Hawkins moved to one of the consoles, spoke inaudibly to the officer stationed there and returned with a radio microphone, which Rosenthal took.

"This is Admiral Rosenthal, 44th Battle Group, Task Force Six, to Bastion Naval Command. We have reached the rally point. Request update on reinforcements."

"One moment, sir..."

Rosenthal tapped his foot for a short time until a different voice began to speak on the line.

"You're in luck, Admiral. Fleet group Avenger is now all ready to sail. In fact, she's leaving right now from Beferen. Copy that you have reached the objective. Your orders are to maintain your position. If you sight any Ennuisian targets, hold your fire, but we need to know. Command out."

The Admiral passed the microphone back to Hawkins.

"Now, we wait. I want regular air patrols across the bay, and put the escorts on standard sentry patterns in a picket line. By the way, how is 39th faring?"

"The 39th Battle Group is holding off the coast, south of La Rocka, as ordered."

"Good." Rosenthal repeated. "Hurry up and get me the Animarnian force. Oh, better make it the Vetakans as well."

TRANSMISSION
RHS Heartland Shield/44th Carrier Battle Group/Task Force 6 to Animarnian Navy deployed in Helgan region/Vetakan Command

Hamilayan Task Force 6 has reached its objective. 39th Carrier Battle Group remains south of La Rocka and the 44th is in the bay off Helgan. Inquiries if there are any further requests and to coordinate defence with Animarnian naval assets.

END

Beferen, Federal Republic of Hamilay

Chancellor Fitzgerald, Fleet Admiral Carrington, Grand Admiral McIver and Field Marshal Bennett, consisting of three of the six most powerful people in Hamilay, strode along the Prince of Wales-class dreadnought Avenger's deck, Fitzgerald shaking hands with the ship's crew as he went. The huge crowd assembled on the docks below loved it. Several thousand people were down there, waving Hamilayan flags, throwing flowers and the like.

"Well, at least they're enjoying themselves." muttered the Field Marshal. "Now, back to business. I have six Army Groups ready, same deployment structure as in Generia, in fact. They're loading at Castell now."

"11th, 60th and 22nd will escort your transports to link up with the rest of the deployment here. How long till you get to Vetaka, Carrington?" asked McIver.

"A few days. Hard to tell. My orders, Grand Admiral?"

"Well, by the time you get there, everything may have blown over, or this might have become a full nuclear war. Also hard to tell. You're to rendezvous off Helgan with TF Six, Rosenthal will brief you on whatever's going on. Get the troops on the ground ASAP."

"All right, then," said the Chancellor, slightly miffed at being left out of the loop. He understood the military parlance, but hadn't been informed of the plans so much. "Good luck, everyone. Dulce Et Decorum. Fleet Admiral Carrington, we'll leave you to your work."

"I'd better get back to Generia. This little holiday has been fun, but Doomingsland needs to be watched as always. General Baker is commanding our Army deployment now. Oh, this operation. We haven't thought of a name yet."

"Hmm. That carrier already off Vetaka with the 39th," McIver thought aloud. "Eternal Guard, perhaps?"

"That'll do. Operation Eternal Guard is now fully mobilised," Bennett laughed. "Again, good luck, Fleet Admiral."

The three officers descended down the boarding ramp, through a laneway cleared through the crowd by lines of troops. The ramp lifted and the Avenger slowly and majestically pulled away from the dock, to thunderous applause, towards the faint outlines of warships on the horizon.

HMS Alexia DeLèan
Admiral Cain was stood on the command deck of her carrier the HMS Alexia DeLèan and looked out at the assembled coalition Armada; ships of all classes and makes as far as she could see. It was one heck of a mighty fleet and Animarnia's commitment to it certainly wasn't small either with the arrival of the Morgana LeFaye and the Julianne with their respective battle groups the commitment was in the region of over two hundred ships. But with a further two Assault groups on the way with there respective escorts made another sixty-two ships for the coalition fleet bringing it close to the three hundred mark. And a total air wing capacity of over one thousand fighters half of which would Talon Multi Role Stealth's the rest a majority of the new GEM F-16 Priests.

"Skipper; Wire for you from ships approaching the armada" spoke a sailor with one ear on a pair of headphones; "They're requesting permission to join up; apparently they are from Hamily"

"Tell them to take formation on the flanks pending any instructions from Veteka Command" Cain replied quickly in her British accent; this was quite literally her patch the DeLèan and Cain being assigned here after the Swan Rebellion for a standard patrol route the only time they had briefly returned to port was to swap the Lightning II's for the new Priests in her battle group.

OOC @ Prestonia: OBSAT allows allies to dial in, so yeah you can do that although asking V ICly is of course required.
OOC @ Hamilay: Somehow, I doubt it; at least not by the time my post happens. Naturally, of course, one of my characters is going to be even angrier than she is now upon learning of them; quite a feat, considering how close to ballistic she is already...
General OOC: Seeing both how epic in scale and good in quality this is getting, we're probably going to need an OOC thread by now so as not to spam things up once the OOBs start getting tossed around. Should I do the honors?:confused:
Also, Feel free to ask me about my fleet if needed. It seems like a bit much even to me at times, but I can point out the needed posts to verify both my purchases involved and their predating this RP. And for any discrepancies between the reference posts and what I claim, note that I extensively modify virtually all ships I buy either when ordering/building or else later as a refit; with posts specifying these refits also being available. For other issues, note the IC commentary which should cover most of them; but ask away if I missed something somehow.
IC
Red Army Air Force One, Wagdian Airspace...
Checking the latest strategic feeds from his staff officers across all branches of the armed forces, courtesy of the comms systems both original to the Il-87 Maxdome in question and retrofitted as well, General Secretary Lind was most pleased; albeit in a backhanded sense. Obviously becoming the probable target of enemy invasion should war break out was, objectively speaking, well within the 'Bad Things' category; but the Ennusians seemed about to embrace a far worse thing themselves, relatively-speaking. Charles' thoughts encompassed the situation, using what he knew to inform what he could surmise. So, coming after me indeed are you Arch-Arsonist? Good, that's me inside your decision-cycle right there; if indeed you're so impulsive in your drive to come after my political breed, since you've just taken your eyes off your prize: Vetaka and Scarlet, whatever your reason for eyeing them at all really is. Now all I have to do is stay in there, and you'll be dancing to my tune instead before I'm finished with you...

This thought in mind, he set to the ostensibly-numbing paperwork for his various allies' needs that constituted the reality of national command in peace or war. Signing-off on deployments, keeping up with supply-consumption and production curves, watching manpower retention versus attrition; all very boring compared to the dash and fighting skill required to command insurgents in the mists of revolution. But equally necessary to major war as the latter's skills were to revolutionary war, all the same...

SIC
OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: USSW WAR OFFICE CINC (GEN. SEC. CHARLES D. LIND)
TO: VDF HIGH COMMAND

DEPLOYMENT OF FIVE USSW-PATTERN ARMY GROUPS, W/ 1.8 MILLION GROUND AND AIR SERVICE PERSONNEL PLUS SUPPORTING EQUIPMENT, IS AUTHORIZED; UNDERWAY AS PHASE ONE OF DEPLOYMENT TO DEFEND NEW THEEB. STOP.
A SECOND PHASE IS POSSIBLE, BUT WE MAY REQUIRE MORE FOR OUR OWN DEFENSE THAN INITIALLY THOUGHT, GIVEN YOUR CONCERNS ABOUT ENNUSIAN STRATEGIC INTENT; DECISION WILL DEPEND ON VDF NEEDS, AVAILABILITY OF UFAN/GUSN/OTHER REINFORCEMENTS TO COMPENSATE. STOP.
AUTHORIZATION TO DEPLOY SCOUTS IS GRANTED; RENDEZVOUS WITH RED ARMY AIR FORCE ONE AND TWO AT MOUNT CASTRO AFB, COORDINATES ####-####, AND PREPARE SCOUTS TO BOARD SAID IL-87 MAXDOME NEACP AIRCRAFT. STOP.
REGARDLESS, WE STAND AT THE GATES OF PEACE AND FREEDOM; THE TOLL FOR PASSAGE BY THE ENEMY = DEATH. FULL STOP.
OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: USSW WAR OFFICE CINC (GEN. SEC. CHARLES D. LIND)
TO: PRESTONIAN HIGH COMMAND

YOUR DEPLOYMENT IS MOST WELCOME, AS WE REQUIRE AT LEAST SOME ASSISTANCE NOW THAT WE SEEM TO HAVE ATTRACTED ENNUSIAN IRE. STOP.
REQUESTED SITE FOR DEPLOYMENT OF ALL PRESTONIAN FORCES IS THE PINKYBRAIN ATOLL SPACE CENTER AND SURROUNDING ISLETS IN SHOENESIA STATE. STOP.
SITE IS OF KEY IMPORTANCE DUE TO PRIMARY OBSAT COMMAND AND OTHER SATELLITE/SPACE FACILITIES LOCATED THERE; AT-ALL-COSTS DEFENSE IS AUTHORIZED, AND LOCAL FORCES COMPRISING USSW 5TH RED GUARD ARMY GROUP (5TH RED GUARD ARMY AND 5TH RED GUARD AIR FORCE SUBORDINATE) ARE ON ALERT. STOP.
WELCOME TO THE PARTY; BYONO= (BRING YOUR OWN NAKIL OR EQUIVALENT). FULL STOP.

IC2
Across the New Theeb Greater Metropolitan Area, Vetaka...
The transports having been wheels-up immediately upon receipt of the VDF notice, the first of five USSW Army Groups massing both land and air forces into one began arriving in Vetaka. As the transports offloaded, MBT-30 tanks and BKCh-1 APCs were readied for crewing and then rolled out to prepare the defenses according to Vetakan command. More armor, artillery, missiles, trucks and supplies of nearly every Soviet or Czechalrussian pattern imaginable began to amass themselves for use by the Wagdian soldiery; and more fighters of both Cardinal and Priest classes took to the skies, just as soon as they offloaded their ferry tanks on landing before being refuelled and rearmed; all in defense of Vetaka's undisputed jewel: New Theeb -- The City of Peace and Freedom.

And whatever Arch-Arsonist Wincenty might say to Vetaka and the world about the supposed implications of this deployment; whether the old and discredited saw from Roxanne Wright's administration about Vetaka somehow being a Wagdian 'puppet state', or even perhaps innuendos that Wagdog had some sort of 'Theeb Spring' coup in mind here, this force emphatically said in reply at the Ennusian dictator in the unmistakeable language of tank treads and cocking rifles: "Shut up; we've heard these lies before, and they are lies. If you detest our way of life, get more enjoyment from your own first before ruining others' for spite. And if you have a problem with Vetaka's alliance with us, deal with it. We honor their requests, as they honor ours; end of discussion."

Edge of Vetakan Waters off New Theeb...
Many leagues away from the massing armies and soon-to-be patrolling land-based fighters, Admiral Jennifer Opalclaw gazed out at the night sky through the bridge windows of her Tri Svyatitelya-class supercarrier, the UWS Comandante Guevara; flagship of the massed combined fleet bearing fully twenty-nine more of her siblings, thirty of the equally-massive Peter the Great-class heavy battleships behind her, and hundreds of escorts and support vessels of every description from large cruiser size on down besides. Virtually the entire naval might of Wagdog remaining, that hadn't deployed to Generia at least, was assigned to this mission; leaving aside Sixth Fleet's already-prowling subs, Seventh Fleet's older escort-tasked ships, and "Ninth Fleet" formed from the Red Banner Coast Guard. A risky move, this massing was, but less so than if it had been done in a campaign farther out; since a threat to Vetakan security was by nature a very direct threat to Wagdian security as well, Vetaka now only being a few-thousand miles away across the North Lazarene Sea from the home islands of the socialist nation, as opposed to much of the world away in Haven as had once been the case. In the exceptionally unlikely event a retreat were ever ordered, it would at least be short this time.

Hopefully, our investment in these babies will pay off now instead... Although just barely capable of operating so large a carrier as a Tri Svyatitelya or so large a battleship as a Peter the Great in the sort of numbers it did, Wagdog only did so at the expense of fielding any other carriers and battleships; aside from a few old Kuznetsovs used as escort flattops in Seventh Fleet, plus some smaller indigenous Bone-class BBNs with engines derated to eighteen-knots max and reroled as "Monitors" in the Coast Guard. Hence, 'Combined Fleet Lazarus' was a massed naval force concentrating the immense combat power of some twenty-thousand naval fighters and just shy of five-thousand helicopters aboard the carriers altogether, plus sixty Vetakan-pattern 25" guns on the battleships combined and as-modified to Wagdian specification, with many thousands of decent missiles for every mission profile across the escorts and capitals alike... but within an incredibly small number of hulls to house them. A definite weakness, if an enemy could somehow bring sufficient anti-ship firepower to bear and exploit it.

Worse, even with the increased funding and manpower from mobilization still predominantly going to the Navy, as only made sense for an archipelago nation's needs, fully half the current battle fleet would have to go into mothballs for a time once demobilization was ordered. Simply put, Wagdog was maxed-out in terms of what it could put to sea without ruining even a mobilized economy. There simply weren't any more ships to send now, aside from the negligee of a reserve that was Seventh Fleet's rustbuckets. What was in Vetakan waters now, would need to serve. Hopefully they'll at least adhere to our battle plan, rather than massing all of us up like so many ducks waiting for Khans to drop on our heads...

Speaking of which, Admiral Opalclaw remembered to alert the Vetakans to said plan as yet more navalized FA-15E Cardinals catapulted off from the Comandante Guevara's heavy deck; another advantage of Wagdog's operating so heavy a carrier as this class, since these decks could at least withstand the crushing weight of the Candrian Empire's premier naval fighter design. Tasked with maintaining the five-thousand aircraft strong BARCAP maintained around New Theeb at all times, these aircraft were immediately followed by an equal number either landing for turnaround or else taxiing up to the catapults to sit alert for replacing fighters inbound for landing. In short, the routine of modern carrier ops on a vast scale; the perfect background noise for an admiral to consult strategy with her allies.

SIC2
OBSAT BATTLEFIELD SECURE COMMUNICATION
FROM: USSW COMBINED FLEET LAZARUS (1ST, 3RD, 11TH, 13TH, 14TH, 15TH USSW FLEETS)
TO: VDF HIGH COMMAND AND 1ST BG

RENDEZVOUS IS COMPLETE, WE'RE HOLDING OVER HORIZON OFF NEW THEEB AND AWAITING FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS. STOP.
RECOMMENDED OPLAN: VDF FLEET MASSES WITH ALLIED CONTINGENTS AND PINS ANY ENNUSIAN ATTACK FLEET, USSW FLEETS FLANK SOUTH OUT OF MISSILE RANGE AND ALLOW FIGHTERS TO SEIZE AIR SUPERIORITY BY MASSED MIGCAP PATROLS. STOP.
IF PROMPT STRIKES ARE NECESSARY, IT IS AGREED THAT ENEMY CARRIERS ARE ABSOLUTE-PRIORITY TARGETS; BEST-ENGAGED AFTER ATTRITION OF ESCORT SCREEN BY SUBMARINE ATTACK IF POSSIBLE. STOP.
USSW RESOURCES ARE IN PLACE TO EXECUTE THIS STRATEGY, IF ACCEPTABLE AND INITIATED; IS THIS AGREEABLE? STOP.
LET US KNOW; EITHER WAY, WE'RE HERE AND READY TO COMMAND THE SEAS BESIDE YOU. FULL STOP.

OBSAT SECURE CONNECTION
TO: USSW WAR OFFICE CINC (GEN. SEC. CHARLES D. LIND)
FROM: PRESTONIAN HIGH COMMAND

TROOPS EN ROUTE VIA AIR AND SEA STOP.
NUMBERS HAVE BEEN INCREASED TO 272,225 TROOPS STOP.
4 MARINE DIVISIONS WITH AIRBORNE CAPABILITY STOP.
1ST-4TH CORPS STOP.
WE FEEL THE SITUATION WARRANTS THE TROOP SURGE STOP.
ALL TROOPS EXPECTED TO BE IN-COUNTRY BY THE END OF THE WEEK STOP.

OOC: Check my factbook (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=531768&highlight=Central+Prestonia+Factbook) for exact divisions within the Army Corps if you wish. I don't really feel like posting my entire military right now. I will however post the heavy equipment I bring along:
70 Tagus Anti-Tank missile systems
275 Nakíl 1A1GUs
100 Oriontus 120mm Mobile Gun Systems
375 Arica. I Shalmanesar Heavy APCs
100 Gargantel Self Propelled Artillery Gun
50 Praetorian II Mobile SAM
30 G6 Self-propelled 120mm Mortar
AH-64 Apache
CH-47 Chinook
UH-60 Blackhawk
M1A2 Abrams
M113 APC
M2 Bradley APC
Humvee

Due to a very personal matter it is with deep regret that I must announce that until further notice this RP is on hold. I am also going to be off NS all together for minimum period of around 2 weeks whilst I attend to personal affairs.

I am deeply apologetic and Thank You for your Understanding

Dan aka Vetaka

Due to a very personal matter it is with deep regret that I must announce that until further notice this RP is on hold. I am also going to be off NS all together for minimum period of around 2 weeks whilst I attend to personal affairs.

I am deeply apologetic and Thank You for your Understanding

Dan aka Vetaka

No Problem man; *many hugs* hope that whatever it is turns out ok for you.

Due to a very personal matter it is with deep regret that I must announce that until further notice this RP is on hold. I am also going to be off NS all together for minimum period of around 2 weeks whilst I attend to personal affairs.

I am deeply apologetic and Thank You for your Understanding

Dan aka Vetaka

No problem, hope everything work out good, I'll keep you in my thoughts.