NationStates Jolt Archive

0302h, South-coast Mainline, Eastbound towards Stockmoor
The train came to a halt half a mile outside the station. Two large flasks contained over two-hundred pounds of enriched uranium, the result of months of work by a dedicated team in the utmost secrecy. The term "security through obscurity" truly applied to Laceenia. Few nations knew much about the country, and fewer cared to keep tabs on exactly what was going on in this almost insignificant island. As such the military had been capable of carrying out the early stages of a nuclear program outside of the international spotlight.

Within a few days, however, this would change. No nuclear program had ever been completed based on simulated detonations. At some stage, an actual test detonation was required, and it was incredibly difficult to hide any sort of nuclear test from the global community.

There was the distinctive roar of English Electric 8 SVT Mk.II engines as the pair of Class 20 locomotives eased forwards once more. The block ahead was now clear and the train could start to travel the last twelve miles to the main research centre.


0820h, Stockmoor Site
The shell of the device was complete. In fact, it had been completed over three weeks ago. The final component was the uranium, fashioned in to two parts: a hollow "bullet" and a cylindrical "target". The scientists were aware of the disadvantages of gun-type fission, but felt it was the most certain way to produce a successful weapon. The more advanced implosion-type weapon designs could wait. For now, all that mattered was getting the final components inserted, and the weapon to the test site.


1300h, Test Site Alpha, Northern Laceenia
An entire town had been constructed over the past two months. Apartment blocks, shopping precincts and rows of terraced, semi- and detached houses stood in what had once been nothing but rolling countryside. The location was picturesque, the population was zero. The town didn't have a name, it wasn't on any map, nor was it connected to any utility grid. Its sole purpose was to be destroyed in a nuclear apocalypse.


(OoC: This is open within reason. As stated in the IC text itself, I doubt many of you will have had much interest in my nation, most of you have never had any contact whatsoever with me. Until the test is carried out, you'll probably only find out about the program by chance, and if you can RP that in a believable way, I'm game. Once the bomb goes off, that's a different matter and I'd expect a lot of people to know something happened, if not exactly what)

OOC: Do you have a coastline and if so would be ok if I have a few ships on a routine patrol near there?

(OoC: There's a fair bit of coastline that your ships could be on patrol off. I should actually get around to creating a map. I'll add it to my weekend 'To-Do' list.)

(OoC: Just a mini-bump before I go grab a few hours sleep. Let's see if there's going to be anything for me to reply to when I get back)

{ooc- Well, one could RP a satellite picking up on the gamma radiation from the 200lbs or 238(?). Send me a message if you would be interested in perhaps combining nuclear programs, or maybe have a test detonation hosted on my soil for covert reasons. We just had some "test" firing not 4 days ago.}

ooc: Might show up on a sat image for me depends

OCC:Ravea has a very well-coordinated system spy rings in most corners of the world; perhaps an agent who vaguely knows something is amiss could stumble into the whole situation accidentally?

(OoC: Legion 7 and Gataway - depending on your sat tech, you might have been able to spot the train carrying the uranium to or from the enrichment facility, or more likely you'll have spotted a sudden spurt of building work in a pretty isolated part of the country.

Ravea - If you can figure out how a spy would have infiltrated the nation (not too hard, but obviously since we have no diplomatic relationship, the cliché of the diplomat-come-spy is out) I'd be willing to run with that idea.

All - I'm currently working on the post for the test itself, but feel free to post between now and then, I can always delay posting the test depending on the response in the next few hours.)

0600h, Test Site Alpha, Northern Laceenia
Huddled within a secure bunker over fifty-miles from the detonation site sat over two-dozen of the country's top-ranking scientist and military officials. All had played some part in the events due to unfold within minutes, and all were here to witness the defining moment of Project Longsword.

"Detonation"

The explosive charge detonated, launching the 'bullet' at the 'target'. Less than a mili-second later the two sections collided. The bomb emitted a huge pulse of radiation and enough heat to ignite furnishings in nearby buildings, as well as the fuel in a petrol station. There was no blinding flash, no shockwave. The only fireball was from nearly one-hundred thousand litres of petrol going up in flames.

"Negative on nuclear detonation. I repeat, there was no fission reaction. The bomb fizzled."

Whilst no-one spoke, the feelings of disappointment was apparent. All the simulations had shown this would work, the detonation would be a success, and yet the proof sat in the middle of the site, surrounded by a handful of burning buildings and the remains of a petrol station which had caused more damage that it had. The test had been a failure. There was a fairly large seismic reading on the system, but that would have been the fuel explosion at the garage rather than the bomb itself.

"What the hell happened?" The silence was broken by Air Marshal Kleen, a well respected officer known for speaking his mind.

"It could have been one of many things. The bomb may have been damaged in transit, the two uranium pieces may not have contacted properly. It's too early to give you an exact answer." One of the scientist spoke as he shuffled papers in front of him. He knew no more about why it had failed than the Air Marshal did.

"Whatever went wrong, we need to put it right in the next few days, we have another test scheduled in seventy-two hours." Kleen shook his head. This had not gone nearly as well as he'd hoped. If the detonation had been weaker than predicted, he could live with it, but since there had been no nuclear detonation it was a different matter.

(ooc:After the tremor is felt, Koharia would investgate by posting a satelite to servey the area)

(ooc:After the tremor is felt, Koharia would investgate by posting a satelite to servey the area)

(OoC: Sounds like a reasonable response to me. Go for it!)

0500 Hours;3 Days After Longsword Incident
Within a secure room at the underground facility of the Koharian Leadership, President Tyler Conroy is getting breifed by Minister of Defense Jon DaTuin and Minister of War Micheal Biggs

"We can positively identify the origin of the tremor we felt and its location," states the Minister of Defense," It seems to be coming from a isolated location in Northern Laceenia. Satelite images show the construction of a small, un-inhabited town. Railways are constructed on one side of the island. We have reports of nuclear materials and/or weapons being transported on these railways."

"Sir, this is a a very dangerous situation..." the Minister of War started, but the President cut him off.

"Is there any corraborating evidence that proves they have nuclear arms, Mr. DaTuin?"

"No, Mr. President. But I would hope that we could alert our Forces and advance to Security Alert 3."

"What do you advise, Mr. Biggs?"

"Sir, I advise that we go in for a pre-emptive strike on Laceenia. Hit them before they hit us," the minister of War stated.

"No. Let's see what Laceenia does next. Mr. DaTuin, station us at Security Alert 3. Mr. Biggs, alert the 3rd SPecial Forces Battalion. Tell them to get their best team to come up here for breifing. Thank you."

And at that, the meeting had ended. For the first time since the nations independence, the Holy Empire of Koharia could flex its military might.

2200h, Test Site Alpha, Two Days After Initial Failure
The device had arrived on site some two hours earlier. The next few hours would be spent ensuring the bomb had not been damaged in transit. The failure of the test sixty-four hours earlier hung heavy in everybody's mind. The hopes of the military top-brass hung on this test. The first failure had been forgivable in the eyes of the small number of politicians in control of the pursestrings. A second fizzle would undoubtedly doom the project.

0600h, Test Site Alpha
Everyone inside the bunker had their fingers crossed as they waited for the word that would bring about the second test.

"Detonation!"

As exactly seventy-two hours earlier, the explosive charge detonated, sending the uranium bullet hurtling into the uranium target. As the two impacted, an uncontrollable chain reaction was started. Almost instantaneously, Longbow Two exploded with the trademark blinding flash and shockwave of a nuclear bomb.

It wasn't the largest test ever conducted. The projections had estimated the bombs destructive power between twenty and thirty kilotons, although several scientists working on the project believed the actual destructive power could be as little as ten kilotons.

No matter what its exact power was, it managed to cause near-total destruction within a mile radius and left almost nothing standing within a quarter-mile of ground zero.

"We have confirmation of a nuclear detonation. Longsword Two detonated successfully."

A cheer went up inside the control bunker. They had actually done it. Today they had written a new chapter in the military history of Laceenia. They had been to ones to bring the country into the nuclear age. The first step had been taken, the first successful detonation. Now the team could focus on refining and perfecting the weapons.

01.35 pm Govermental Meeting Office, Jutenheim, Sultenia

Prime minister Vogel Ravenholdt in meeting with fellow partymembers.
The PM reads through the report as concerned looks were flying across the room.

"Defense Commander, are these reports varified?" asked the PM
"Very much sir, the detonation was picked up by two different sattelites, the nation of Laceenia has nuclear weapons."

"Or had, this might have been their only device, this shows nothing more than that a nuclear bomb exploded in Laceenia, they might have been attacked! None of the MOC surveillance sattelites show anything that links Laceenia to any kind of weapons development." Screamed Sed Holm, tactical advisor.

"Since when did your sattelites started see through bedrock advisor?" said the PM in a calm voice.
"Well..."
"If you cant tell me anything important keep you bloody mouth shut in the future if your going to speak out of turn!"

The PM lit a cigarette and eyed through the photographs.
"Look.... all we have is these photos and speculations, for all we know this might as well be a terrorist attack as a nuclear test. We don't know much about this nation and we are going to meet them soon. This meeting might mean what stance our nations will have to eachother in the future, and now you bring a possibility that this nation might have weapons of mass-destruction? *Sigh* What's the usual code of practice in these situations advisor?"

"Well, we can't just confront them with this, if we bring false accusations, it will tear up diplomatic talks. But we can't sit by and still, we have no real info, only these photographs."

The PM eyed through the calender.
"Diplomatic talks will proceed, we don't know much about them, they might be capable enough to know that nuclear attacks will only mean the end of their nation when the international community gets their turn. They don't strike me as a "crook" state, yet. Defense Commander, we still need more info on this topic, there is not much choices, survey what it will take to get a battlepair from the Martens to conduct a covert operation in the area of the detonation with a camera, no combat equipment, I want a complete report to overview with tactical advisors and the Party. Thats what I suggest, any other ideas?"

Party members still looked at eachother in a shocked state.

"In Favour?"
Majority hands raised.

"Commander, start that report. Contact the IAOFR make them have that welcome carpet ready."

0100H; Day After Longsword Incident,Government Building,Jafari,Koharia
"WHEN DID THIS HAPPEN!" President Tyler Conroy boomed as he hurried into Koharian Command and Control Center. He had just gotten news of the nuclear detonation on Laceenian soil. He was rushed out of The Presidential Residence and been breifed on the way.

"Sir, we have photographs and satelite images of the incident which timed in at 0600 hours yesterday,"Minister of Defense Jon DaTuin stated, "We still do not know i this is a terrorist attack or a nuclear test. Sir, we must evacuate you to a secure facility in the Jovan Mountaun ranges. We do not know if Laceenia has missile capability.."

Micheal Biggs, the Minister of War, cut him off," But if they even wink at us, we will invade this country. We have very little estimates on thier military forces, but such a little state should not have very much wartime capability. Unless they have a strong Air Force, we could roll into there and overthrough the government in 2 weeks."

"Thank you too. Mr. Biggs, Please update us to Security Alert 4. Mr. DaTuin please get the Commanding Officers of the Navy and Marines on a tele-conference feed." They started off to do their job," And Mr. DaTuin. Get my good damn family somewhere safe."

Undisclosed location, MOC (Marten Operations Command) Headquarters, 6:45 PM

In a closed briefing room two people were sitting on casual chairs just waiting for the door to open up and anyone, just anyone will tell them what is going on and what needs to be done.
These two figures are part of the MOC armed wing, unlike the "open" MOC wich is mostly the intelligence agency of Sultenia, the Martens, modeled like most other special forces around hte globe, trained for espionage, recon, sabotage and "other activities" behind enemy lines.

The commander, Jan Heldt comes through the door.

"Evening soldiers."
"Evening commander."

"I'm going to be blunt, and I don't want your answer until tomorrow. This mission is covert intel gathering, you will be inserted in unknown territory without weapons or anything that might link you to any form of military operation. If you are compromised, extraction is out of the question you will fend for yourselves, if you are caught, you will face total denial by Sultenia. Think about this. If you can't accept the terms don't accept the mission. See you tomorrow."

The commander leaves the room.

1535h, Test Site Alpha
The scene was one of total destruction. Where once there had stood a 'busy' shopping centre, office blocks and a hastily rebuilt petrol station, there was now just twisted steel, crumbled concrete and isolated pockets of fire. Several thousand feet overhead, a lone EH101 made the first full observation of the test site.

"It's looking pretty totalled down their. I'm picking up pretty high levels of radiation across most of the site. Interestingly, there's a ring of total destruction, and then the fires start. It's as if the air-blast put out the fires close to ground zero. The rest of the town is burning pretty bright, although I can still make out a handful of structures, especially the larger factory buildings, on the outskirts are pretty much intact."

1600h, Cabinet Briefing Room Echo, Stockmoor
"And do you feel we should announce to the world our successful testing of a nuclear device?" The Prime Ministers absence had left his normal chair occupied by Mason Banks, the leader of the House of Commons.

"I think not." Isaac Charlton was trying to be the voice of reason. He knew what the world was like, and the risks of such an announcement, "There are a lot of states out there with a twitchy trigger finger, rightly or wrongly. If we announce we have nuclear capabilities, we might as well role out the mat that says 'look at us, we can nuke you!' and wait for the troops to land."

"Or by not announcing it we might come across as overly secretive and with something to hide. We need to announce our nuclear test, and ready our forces to prevent an invasion." The Secretary of State for Defence made a valid point. It looked like the meeting was destined for a stalemate.

"Which will just raise tensions further! What would you think if some nation you'd barely heard of announced they had The Bomb, them increased military readiness?" Isaac was loosing patience, "That's asking for trouble, let's be honest."

"So what should we do?" Mason Banks interjected, "We can't announce it, but we can't keep it a secret."

"We should wait." A new voice joined the fray, "Evaluate the results of the test, then make a statement when the worlds attention is elsewhere." It was Connor Freeman, the Chancellor, and a man well respected for his ability to grasp public opinion as if it was a solid object. He often impressed his colleagues with this well thought out and simple ideas, and this time was no different.

The blast had been detected by one of the hundreds of Tolvanic recon satellites that orbited the planet. It hadn't taken long for the analysts at the National Spatial Reconniassance Office (NSRO) to determine the massive thermal bloom was consistent with the detonation of a tactical nuclear warhead. A report was quickly typed summarizing the blast and detailing what little information the NDI had on file regarding Laceenia. This report was quickly rushed into the already in progress Cabinet Meeting. After a short discussion the decision was made to dispatch the nearest forces in the area to monitor the situation and ensure that things didn't get too out of hand.


Carrier Battle Group Five
275 nautical miles west of Lacennian waters

CBG 5 had been on patrol 300 nautical miles west of Laceenia when the orders to relocate and commence patrols nearer to Laceenian national waters had arrived. The battle group would link up with the 19th Amphibous Assault Group to form Force L, which would proceed to make its presence known in the area. Once the two groups combined there would be twenty Tolvanic warships and nearly 15,000 sailors and Marines off Laceenia.

Seismographs at the Estovakian Seismographic Society registered the tremors from the nulcear blast. The Society triangulated the source of the tremors, which were not near any natural fault lines, and phoned Estovakian High Command. Soon Estovakian military spy satellites hovered over the suspected blast site in Laceenia, a poorly understood country, and confirmed the tremors indeed orignated from a nuclear blast. A call was given to the Estovakian Oceanographic & Atmospheric Agency on the Twilight Island Chain 750 nautical miles NNE off the coast of the Laceenia to monitor radiation levels.

More importantly to Laceenia, the Estovakian State News Agency broadcasted the news on its late night news program and would continue to broadcast the news the next day. Any intelligence agencies around the world who did not figure out that Laceenia had tested its nuclear weapon would surely know now after processing monitored broadcasts and soon foreign news agencies would pick up the story as well, broadcasting the story not only in their countries to the general public but Laceenia's as well.

City of Mecu; Vietnam Empire
Presidential Palace

President Mendoza: Wakes up and turns on the TV while getting ready for work

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

This is the Vietnam Empire News Network

We have reports from the Estovakian News that Laceenia has tested an Nuclear missile. We have no data when this took place and .........


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

Phone rings in the Presidents room,

Secretary of Homeland National Security, Ly Nguyen.

Nguyen: Mr. President, we need you at the National Assembly to address the nu..."

Mendoza: "I know Ly....jesus.....how on earth they can get that capability...I be there one hour, get all the staff."

Nguyen: "Yes Mr. President."

Both hangs up, and the sun was rising and shining towards the President's room window...

OOC: I'm actually PMT in some aspects, but no furthur advanced than 2015. Is that okay?

IC:

Central Military Intelligence Headquarters (CMIH), Ten Miles NW of Ass'aam Kiith'sid, Capitol City

A lone, skinny man dressed in a neat black uniform with well-trimmed hair and thin, square glasses came rushing in, file in hand to his commander's office. His commanding officer, Captain Grenge Kadesh of the Satellite Information Center (SIC) was in his seat behind his neat black desk on the phone. He looked up at the lone Lieutenant curiously with his gruff, leathery complexion as he said "Hold on a moment," and placed the thin black phone's ear piece on his hand. Normally a very formal and angry man, he looked at his Lt. with worry, since he had long-since whipped this man into shape.

"Yes soldier?" he said curiously, eying the seat above the young Lieutenant's brow.

"Sir," the Lieutenant said with worry thick in his voice, "We have a confirmed Nuclear impact on a small nation in the Northern Pacific."

The Captain's brow furrowed as he placed the phone in his thick, muscle-bound hands on the receiver neatly. "Let me see that file, now." He said gesturing to the neat vanilla envelope in the Lieutenant's thin hands.

He handed it over and the Captain quickly poured it over his desk, looking at surveillance photos and environmental readings from military satellites that unmistakably confirmed a nuclear detonation in a small, destroyed town on a tiny island in the North Pacific. "Who else knows of this?" he asked the wiry Lieutenant.

"Just you, me and my fellow staff sir," he replied tugging at his collar.

"We need a reaction from the Diamid," he said picking up his phone. "Do we know if this is a test, terrorist act or attack from another nation yet?" He said while punching numbers into the phone's pad with his meaty fingers.

"No sir, nothing has been confirmed yet sir," he replied. "That being said, we speculate test as there were no human bodies located anywhere, but this wouldn't be the first time no bodies were located from a nuclear blast, they may have just as well retreated into shelters moments before the blast went off sir."

"Yes yes, I know the protocol of analysis on a nuclear blast Lieutenant," Captain Grenge said as he looked at the man, placing the phone in his ear. "Your men are now to task two class B satellites to orbit over the area. I want full monitoring of their nation from now until I say different. This is all classified secret until otherwise noted. Do you understand Lieutenant?" he said calmly.

"Yes sir," he noted back, more calm by his superior's cool actions and calm demeanor.

The Captain began to speak with someone on the phone when he noticed the Lieutenant was still standing in front of him. He looked up and shouted, "Why are you still here Lieutenant?!"

Diamid Council Room, Fifteen Minutes Later

The Diamid was in-session in the tall, rich circular room decorated ornately in Gothic style architecture, tall bullet-proof windows extending to the ceiling and rich dark stone and even darker wood flowed around the tall, captivating room that a mere dozen men were in.

"And that is precisely why we cannot shift production from Nabaal to the UK!" screamed Paktu Kiith-sa Garond, his rich dark green robes shaking with contention, just as his body was.

"It is not so simple," calmly replied Sjet-sa Karan. "We need not cast aside the very way in which we conduct our production and research, merely move its focus away from Nabaali held factories to Unified Kiith factories."

"Of course you'd be in favor of screwing a Nabaali over," calmly interjected Nabaal-Sa Jafiir, barely containing his rage under a calm demeanor. "We have been at odds on the application of technology for centuries, and you'd love only too much to finally cripple us for good, wouldn't you?" he said, pointing a thin finger at her while casting a dark stare.

Suddenly the main doors slowly opened, and a stern-looking Captain Grenge carrying twelve vanilla folders bound together by a leather strap was escorted in by two guards. The guards, satisfied that he had been taken to the Diamid successfully, then exited the room.

The council members sat down calmly, ending their discussion immediately. They knew not what the Captain was about to inform them of, but they knew it must be very important, for only very grave matters were permitted to interrupt Diamid Council Meetings. "Yes, Captain?" Said Karan, noting the insignia clearly displayed on his shoulders.

"Madam Council Member," he began, "I am very sorry to interrupt your meeting this afternoon, but I have to brief you all on a situation that has developed in the North Pacific," he said as he passed-out the folders to the members, quickly moving from one desk to the next.

"Approximately One-hour-twenty minutes ago a nuclear blast was confirmed on the nation of Laceenia, a small nation of sixty or so million. Our initial studies indicate that this was a test, as there are no apparent fatalities on the ground, but we have no confirmed information. We also have no diplomatic relations, and no dossier on this country. They are a complete unknown," he said, calmly placing his hands at his side.

"Well then," said Karan, placing her right hand under her chin, "We need to know Captain. What do you recommend?"

"I recommend a naval task force be deployed to the area to control the inevitable reaction from the international community, and a diplomatic envoy be immediately flown to the nation to find-out what happened and provide defense, or medical help as necessary. In the event of a test, we must establish a file on this nation and find-out exactly who they are and what their intentions are. In the event of an attack, we shall provide for their defense until an amicable solution can be found between all parties."

The Diamid Members looked around at each-other, all collectively nodding back and forth at the proposal. Then Nabaal-sa said, "You have a green light, Captain. I shall marshal the Second Nabaali Fleet, and make sure you get a diplomatic team together. You're flying to Laceenia. We'll notify them beforehand."

Shit, Captain Grenge thought as he saluted, turned and exited, heading toward the exit and now the Ass'aam Military Airfield, pulling-out his cell-phone and dialing the Diplomatic Headquarters (DH) as he entered his transport.

NNS Hearken Ocean-Class Carrier, Port Nalthorr, NW Nabaal, Two Hours Later

"We have just cleared the port and are meeting up with the task force sir," the Navigation Officer said to Captain Rieding, head of the second fleet of Nabaal.

"Good. ETA until we link up with the fleet?" Captain Rieding asked.

"Ten minutes at twenty knots, sir."

"Excellent. Begin plotting a course to the nearest coast of the site of the blast. When we link-up with the task-force, notify the Naval Guard that we'll be moving out at thirty knots, make sure they know to make-ready the shipping lanes at Abasid Strait of the Grey Peninsula."

"Yes Captain," he said tapping his head-piece calling the Long-Range Comms Officer.

The large, sleek carrier sailed off into the setting sun, heading for its task force and then Laceenia.

Ass'aam Military Airfield, 1800 hrs

The large, busy airport hummed with activity as fighters soared overhead, and an elegant ballet of planes taking off, landing and numerous men and women scouring the ground, some maintaining, some fueling, others loading. Bombs on a magazine being carried by a helicopter flew overhead of Captain Grenge as he was driven to his plane, Diplomatic Officer to his right, both totally silent. The car came to an abrupt halt next to the staircase of a very nice plane as he opened his door.

Well, at least I'm first class, he thought to himself, looking at the long-range Leerjet before him.

"Hurry-up gentlemen!" An ear-muff wearing yellow-jacket attired man yelled at them as they nodded and hustled onto the plane. "Your escort fighters are already up! You'll be there in Four Hours!" He yelled over the noise of the Leerjet's engines coming to life.

Official Communique of the Diamid of Gahrodanth

It has been noted that a blast of nuclear proportions has erupted inside your national boarders. We have a diplomatic envoy and fighter escort en route ETA four hours. We request their admittance and illumination of the situation at hand. We have also tasked the Second Nabaali Fleet, Flagship NSS Hearken Ocean-Class Carrier to arrive off the shores of the blast on a peace-keeping mission, ETA 95 hours and request permission to permeate your national waters and secure the area from any further international interference and retaliation.

Ships in the Second Nabaali Fleet:

DN Hearken Ocean Class CVN
DN Magistrate Mackesnen Class BB
DN Magister Mackesnen Class BB
DN Bull Centaur (Modified) DDG
DN Algram Centaur (Modified) DDG
DN Naliir Centaur (Modified) DDG
DN Arcon Centaur (Modified) DDG
DN Pintis Centaur (Modified) DDG
DN Alister Sabre DDG
DN Alvis Sabre DDG
DN Langley Sabre DDG
DN Urvel Sabre DDG
DN Typhoon Sabre DDG
DN Brave Dauntless DDG
DN Tiir Dauntless DDG
DN Wrecker Dauntless DDG
DN Lantern Dauntless DDG
DN Holden Dauntless DDG
DN Revenge Revenge ASW
DN Typhoon Revenge ASW
DN Silent Astron SSN
DN Night Astron SSN
DN Helgar Tigershark AOE
DN Helen Tigershark AOE
DN Mystic River AOE
DN Magician River AOE
DN Abasid Clan Grant AOR
DN Near Clan Grant AOR
DN Courage Savior AH

Please respond with due haste.

Best Regards,

Signed Karan Sjet
Karan Sjet, Sjet-Sa and Diamid Speaker

OOC:

You seem like a good writer, such a rarity on II these days. I intend to treat you very nicely.

(OoC: PMT is fine as long as it's not too far into the future. 2015 sounds fine)

MoD Building, Stockmoor
"Best estimate says it was around the 20 kiloton mark." The young advisor didn't look old enough to join the office corp, let alone handle high-level intelligence, but the screening process was thorough enough, and he must have decided this was the career path he wanted as soon as he felt school. "Nothing spectacular in the grand scheme of things, but it's proof of concept, and as demonstrated in the test, has tactical benefits in the field."

"Any reaction from outside the nation yet?" Josh Dixon took his role as Secretary of State for Defence very seriously. Knowledge was the primary currency in the world of national security. If you knew what other people were up to at any given time, you could predict what they would be up to in the future.

"Nothing official, although we have not run through the intelligence collected in the last few hours." The advisor paused momentarily and glanced at the notepad he was carrying, "We have noticed an unknown naval task force off our western coast, although they've been in the region for a while now, so it's probably a routine patrol rather than a response to the tests."


LBC News
Reports broadcast on an international news station state the Laceenian Armed Forced conducted a nuclear test earlier this week. The Ministry of Defence has denied these reports, insisting the seismic readings are the result of a large conventional bomb detonating within a fuel storage tank during recent weapons tests.


LAF Grandsworth SIGINT Centre
"What the hell? I need the shift supervisor please!" One of around two dozen operators made what was generally a routine request. Anything of particular interest always needed a supervisor to be summoned.

"Problem?"

"Not nessiccarily... I have an incoming message from the Diamid of Gahrodanth regarding a nuclear blast."

The supervisors tone changed drastically, becoming more sombre,"OK, Technician, I'll take over."

"Sir?"

"It's more than your jobs worth. Forget you ever saw this message."

"The rumours of a nuclear test..."

"Are nothing more than whispers and hearsay until the government says otherwise." He reached into his trouser pocket and handed the young operator a handful of coins. "Take a break and get me a coffee. Black, one sugar."

Response to the Diamid of Gahrodanth
I can confirm that a nuclear detonation took place within our boarders. As you will no doubt understand, we cannot at present discuss the details, but will allow your aircraft to enter our airspace and will happily clarify the situation to your envoy. We also give tentative permission for your fleet to enter our territorial waters, although we will assign a smaller fleet to shadow your vessels once the enter our country.

On behalf of Lanceenian Ministry of Defence
Operator B139-211, LAF Grandsworth

Leerjet, North Pacific Ocean, 2145 Hrs

"Captain," said the neat, formal man in a plain black suit as he brushed the skin under his nose on his baby-face with a single long, thin finger, "I understand your alarm, but we must remain calm. I highly suggest we leave the guards in the plane, at least at first."

"I don't care what the SOP for diplomatic procedures are, this isn't my damn job!" Captain Grenge snapped back at Majior Paktu, the Diplomatic Officer of the two-man envoy. "We don't know what's going on, who they are, what the international community will make of this, or even if we can enter their territory!" he snapped back.

"Actually," Majior snapped wittingly, "We received confirmation to enter and land at their territory just an hour ago. We will be informed of the situation. Even the naval task force has been let in, when they get there."

Grenge looked seething as he exclaimed, "Why wasn't I informed of this?! I'm the head of this operation! When something happens, I need to know. And, since I'm the CO, we're taking the fucking four assault guards. No objections," he said more calmly with his arms crossed, thinking he had sufficiently demonstrated his authority.

The four heavily armed and armored guards dressed in very bulky black armor carrying Rec7s shifted their weight slightly, facing forward awkwardly in the tiny seats. Even the guards seemed uneasy as the plane entered Laceenian territory; normally Gahrodanthi operations went very smoothly from the get-go, and officers - especially officers - were very level-headed. They just hoped that this didn't fuck up thousands of miles from home - the guards were there as a more of a deterrent, not as a fool-proof defense.

Cockpit of Leerjet

"This is Gahrodanthi Envoy and escort Flight three-six-two requesting permission to land, please register our squawk, confirm you hear us and guide us to the LZ, over."

The Estovakian Oceanographic & Atmospheric Agency detected minute traces of radiation from winds blowing over from Laceenia and immediately fowarded the information to the Estovakian High Command, which did absolutely nothing as it already knew a nuclear weapon was detonated, and fowarded the message to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. James Whitmore, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, also aware of the full story, decided to finally confront Laceenia about the blast.

Official Communique from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Commonwealth of Estovakia

The Republic of Estovakia and its Commonwealth has conclusive evidence that a nuclear blast has emanated in a relatively unpopulated portion of your country. We request further information about the blast, whether it was intentional or not and the extent of the Laceenian Nuclear Program.

The Republic of Estovakia acknowledges the right of a soverign nation to produce and hold nuclear weapons for defensive purposes and has no intention of infringing on the right of Laceenia to do so. However, as a concerned nation, and as a member of the international community, the Republic of Estovakia is always concerned about the proliferation of NBCs, about the intentions of governments with said weapons, and the security of these highly destructive weapons.

We know nothing of the internal situations and stability of Laceenia and externally, wer only know that large bodies of naval vessels of other nations are converging on your territorial waters. I ask the government of Laceenia to elaborate on the actions going on your country and around it and offer military and or economic assistance if necessary.

I urge the beginning of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Estovakia and Laceenia. The Dilpomatic Minsitry and Office of Foreign Affairs hopes to hear from you.

Regards,
James S. Whitmore

Undisclosed location, MOC (Marten Operations Command) Headquarters, 6.17 AM Day 2

Back in the same room as yesterday, same dirty-white walls and same plain chairs. One of the shadowy Marten agents was calmly rolling his thumbs while the other had barley woken up.

The door opened and the commander walked in, like many Sultenians the commander Jan Heldt was quite tall and a heavy smoker, so it was not much of a suprise that he had a cigarette in his mouth when he walked in.

"So gentlemen, we need your approval of this mission to continue, standards prevents us from ordering you to carry out this mission due to the fact it might be a one-way ticket."

"Is this mission of utmost importance to the nation?"

"I am not at liberty to say." This phrase was the immediate red flag for any Marten, standard rule is that all missions are of "utmost importance to the nation", if a commander replies other, then something has gone terribly wrong.

The commander layed out a closed folder on the desk and put out the cigarette.

"I need that answer."

"Marten 1 accepts"
"Marten 2 accepts"

The folder was opened up.

"If you watched the news recently you might have noticed that we will have a national visit soon. The nation of Laceenia, a country like most other, but now we have a situation. Sattelites have confirmed that at 0600h yesterday, a nuclear device was set off in a remote part of this country. We have no idea who or what is responsible, it could be anything. Laceenia has not relased any statements in this issue, claiming on national news it was a conventional bomb detonated in a gas tank. That won't prove anything, we have no idea who set off the bomb or if there are any more of them. We were hoping that people would keep a lid on this affair but it seems as some nations are already making moves that can only be classed as "hostile", they are not discreet, just a few hours ago also the nation of Estovakia sent a communique actually confronting Laveecnia with the issue, this was picked up by one of our older patrol boats but it is confirmed. This leaves us little to nothing in terms of time. We think that soon every crackpot state with too much military spending will interveane."

"Did Laceenia take into account that the international community would see this when they detonated this device? It's not the 60s anymore."
Marten 2 seemed quite amused by this whole incident, or more how it is carried out.

"That is why the goverment of Laceenia are the least suspect here, it might have been an terrorist group planning to make a statement, rouge military officers or even an accident. That is were you come in.
The mission is simple. You will go in with a camera linked to a transmitting device and send Operations Command photographical data of the area affected by the blast. No weapons and basic light kit for 13 days of operation. You will also survey surrounding areas for any installation or activity, if you find any photograph it as well. Gather everything you can about this incident, even dirt samples. Get your kit together, detailed breifing and chinese parliment will be conducted in room 3 this afternoon. Dismissed."

2100h, Day 2;Northern Koharian Command and Control Center(NKC3)

"Sir, we have confirmed reports of a Nabaali fleet converging on Laceenias coast. There are multiple surface ships. Unknown amount of submersibles. Sir, we need to act. We can either acknowledge and ally with Laceenia in trade for nuclear power or we can join the nabaali fleet." Naval Weapons Commandant Jerry Feilding stated as he examined the screen.

"Mr. Biggs what do you think?" President Conroy asked.

"I think we stay the hell out of dodge until we figure out what the other countries are gonna do. Wait it out until the bigger countries get a chance to fight."

"Then I think thats exactly what we are gonna do."

Undisclosed location, MOC (Marten Operations Command) Headquarters, 2.30 PM Day 2

The light kit for this kind of operations are not as light as one might expect, but for the Martens, they are light enough. Each agent must make the decision on what to bring and what to bin for the mission, but for a light kit mission the backpack must not exceed 25 kilograms.
Marten 1 (to protect the identities and origin of agents, names are never disclosed) packed the basics, extra socks, 9 ration packs civilian made, 2 portions of canned beans and beefbits for emergency in case water would be needed for drinking, 2 spare plastic bottles of 1.5 litres taped black, raincoat, the cooking kit, fire material, binoculars, standard knife with solid wooden handle, the one-man tent, a small shovel, extra salt and sugar packs, a bottle of kerosene, medical supplies (bandages, suture kit, antibiotics and painkillers), a small red flashlight, the standard pack of 1000 USD for "compromised extraction", rope, plastic bags and the thick wind/winter coat.
Marten 2 packed similar but brought one extra water bottle, water purifiing tablets and water purification kit, some hooks, metal wire and a pair of brass knuckles, and chose to ditch the tent and shovel. What one does not carry another in the team makes up for.

For clothing, restrictions were simply non Sultenian military fatigues. Based on the mission briefing they chose clothing making them look like the everyday backpacker but still blend in if they needed to.

Everything gatherd up they waited outside the briefing room.

V.E. National Assembly

President Mendoza opens the door that leads to the main assembly hall, in it was full of staff members and representatives.

"Ahem, recently...there was a nuclear event at Larceenia. We are not sure where and if it was a nuclear event" said President Mendoza at the Podium. "My fellow staffs, we need to decide now of what should we do on this event, it is our national security."

Among the crowds, there was large amounts of murmurs and whispers.

"There's many nations did not know about this event.....We are one of the few nations notice this event. Is there a suggestion of what we should do for the best of our self-interest" said Mendoza

One of the crowd stood up. It was Secretary of Defense; Colonel Johnny Vu.

"Mr. President....I believe that we should send our naval and marines..." said Col. Vu

One of the crowd interrupted, Secretary of Foreign Affairs; 1st Lt. Wheaty, who jumped in protest.

"Wait, wait, wait....We can't send our naval and marines to Larceenia, will that tell them to launch their nukes at us!!!" said Wheaty

"Well we are not committed to send them into Larceenia's waters, we just deploy and patrol at the international waters, near to Larceenia....There are some reports that there is another fleet over there, but we don't know for sure if they're Larceenia or another nation." said Vu

Mendoza looks at the staff members and hesitates....both hands on his mouth..thinking. 3 minutes has passed within silents

"So.....is this what everyone wants....send our Naval and Marines to the borderline of Larceenia's waters. Then there should be a vote, if we should do so."

20 minutes later, all staff members has casted their' votes onto to the state-of-the-art electronic machine. And with data collected, the House Speaker tally the vote.

"With the finalizing votes, the Decision on to Deployment of troops to Larceenia. A vote of 639-104, which is a YEA on deployment of Active troops." Said the Speaker

"With that, set our national security to DEFCON 2." said Mendoza, leaves the room

------------------------------------------------
Deployments

Naval Fleet
3x Destroyers
4x Amphibious transport ships
1x Carriers
2x Amphibious Assaults Ships
5x Corvettes
2x Battle Cruisers
2x Frigates
3x Attack Submarines
1x SSGN Submarines (Purpose to shoot down Nukes)

110th Division "Blazing Tiger"; Royal Marine Corps.
10,000 Troops

Undisclosed location, MOC (Marten Operations Command) Headquarters, 8.30 PM Day 2

Commander Jan Heldt was in the briefing room with the two man Marten team, a map was laid out in front of them.

"We need to get this done, report are coming in from all over the place in this matter. If things continue and Laceenia don't answer to the international community soon, Laceenia might soon just be a filler for the history books."

The commander nearvously lit a cigarette.

"Look... air insertion is out of the question you will be inserted by civilian boat here." A small metal stick pointed on a spot in the water near a shore on the map.

"From there you will use a small inflatable boat to row ashore. Next is a two day walk from this point to here, this is the area were the detonation occured, photograph the area, take dirt samples and survey the area for two and a half days then make your way back to the coast were your insertion point was, row back and extract. The mission has been shortend so dump food and material you don't need. This nneds to be done faster as the international community closes in we need to be out in case war breaks out. With you you will take this."

The commander took out a big system camera.

"This costs more than you so be gentle with it. You connect it to this transmission device and all images will be uploaded directly to us, it also has a video feed system, use that once a day for fifteen minutes and film anything interesting so we get a live video showing everything proceeds as planned. If you get compromised, smash this camera and the transmission device immedietly. You will also get these with you, radiometer to check for radiation it will be on at all times, rad-pills, always take them twice a day with 12 hour intervals to prevent radiation sickness and this metal box for the dirtsample. You will leave this building in 6 hours, get some sleep, insertion will be at night."

OOC:

Okay, I have had about enough of this without commenting on it.
First off, all of you, save the OP (Original Poster):

Please, read the stickies at the top of International Incidents. I see a lack of depth, intrigue, or sadly even proper basic grammar and in some cases even sentence structure is greatly and grossly neglected. This applies in varying degrees to you all.

Koharia, your posts are fine except that you could elaborate a bit more on the process that goes through everything that you post about; develop the plot a bit and even if you're just sitting there, at least have characters that are slightly more round (i.e. have depth) than what you present.

Sultenia, your posts tell me what is going on, but they don't describe it to me. Your posts read as though a text book was relaying the events to me in a very lecture-style format. Quite frankly, it is very boring to read, and the manner in which you phrase your sentences is somewhat confusing occasionally. Moreover, there is virtually NO character development or even description for that matter, and you seem to be accomplishing a lot of things with very little to tell us the process on how it happens, and it seems to happen VERY quickly. Moreover, wait until the OP posts before you continue the plot, so we all have a chance to react and have a steady flow of time between all our posts.

Vietnam Empire, your first post in this thread was, for lack of a better term, shameful. Please, please please please write better than that. It could not have taken you more than one minute to type that up; the grammar and structure is terrible, the plot is hard to understand, and it made me want to jam a spoon into my temple while I read it. Not to be insulting, but come on, is that REALLY the best you can write? Your posts have become successively better, but only in the sense that improving upon your first post would not be an accomplishment worth noting.

This is role-playing, which is the act of writing a story together; it is the act of telling a story to all who will read it, nothing more, nothing less. If you cannot put forth the will to write well, hell, even to write with proper grammar and sentence structure, then perhaps you should not be writing at all. Not to deter or insult you, you're all fairly new, but look at my and Laceenia's posts. We don't expect a book from every post, but please, try to do better than this.

Also, Laceenia, unless you have RL problems (which is fine, shit happens), it is considered to be good etiquette to post at least once every day...

And I saw you on yesterday, surfing that MILEX '08 thread (you can click on a person's name and find out what their last action on the server was and when it was)...

Not that I'm angry at you at all; for a relatively new poster your posts are simply AMAZING. Just letting you know.

Okay, now that the rant is over, please understand I am posting this for constructive criticism, and if it seemed a bit harsh...well, welcome to the internet. Where the women are men, the men are pedophiles, and the children are FBI agents...

EDIT: Also, unless it is so BLATANTLY obvious that not a child could mistake it, it helps to tell us WHO said what on EVERY line guys...

OOC:
Thank you, I will take this into account for my next message, i'm still new on this so I need all the critique I can get.

1600h, Day 3, Ultrasecure Strategic Tactical Command(StatTacCom) Underground Facility

President Tyler Conroy rubbed his temples. We had been down here for a long time. Every Minister and Armed Forces Head was in this room. They could not come to an agreement. Right now the Minister of War Micheal Biggs and the Naval Powers Commandant Jerry Feilding were arguing.

"There are people to think about. I will not send my men to protect a country we know little about. Nuclear arms would also bring us into the spotlight!" yelled Jerry Feilding, even though Micheal Biggs was sitting 10 feet from him.

"We also need to think about our weapons," yelled Micheal Briggs in his booming voice," we do not have enough ships to even keep up with the other nations in this foray. If we ally with Laceenia, they would be scared to attack us for fear of nuclear war. If we ally with the wrong people, we may get attacked. We have developed our anti cruise missile defence, but it is not as advanced as the Western ones and it hasnt been through a live-fire exersice."

"I think we should have faith in the Missile Defence system. And if we get attacked, then it would bring Laceenia into a more public eye. Bigger countries will intervene. We should ally with the Nabaali fleet and send our battle group in there amongst their vast warships. We wouldnt be a very large attachment, but it would be a start.

"May I say that those two plans both have ups and downs," interjected Minister of Defense Jon DaTuin. "We would be risking the lives of our countrymen no matter what we choose. I think that we would lose more people if we allied with the Laceenians. We would have a protective blanket of the Nabaali fleet, who is much larger then us. The Laceenians might attack them first."

"That is a great idea, Minister," spoke President Tyler Conroy for the first time since calling the meeting to order," Minister of Populace?"

"Yes, sir?" Martin Calihorn asked. This squat, and plump man was the Minister of Foriegn and Social Affairs.

"Please get together with the Minister of War and draft a communique to the Nabaali fleet. Tell them we wish to join with the fleet. Minister of Defense?"

"Yes, sir?"

"Please get together with the Armed Forces Heads and prepare our fleet. Minister of Energies?"

"Yes, sir?" Nathanial Brandish was an excellent advisor. He could help with anything.

"I need you to prepare for me to address the nation."

1800h, National Addressing Room, NKC3

"... and five, four, three, two, ..."

"Good evening, Koharia. This is President Tyler Conroy. Due to the recent nuclear tests in Laceenia that you have undoubtedly seen, we have drafted a response to this act of aggression. We shall be joining a Nabaali fleet and advising that Laceenia place down his arms. We are in no way at war. We are at Security Alert 4, which is the next to last alert post. 5 and we are at war. We will be giving you regular alerts on this predicament, but do not be scared . We are not in danger. Thank you, and good night"

Official Communique

To:Mabaali FLeet Admiral

We would like the chance to join with your powerful fleet. Our small nation is fearful of an attack on our soil. We would like to have you as a protective blanket. We will be sending the following:

x2 LC-2 Intruder Landign Craft
x2 Los Angeles Class SSN submarines

Please reply post-haste so we can get underway.

Micheal Biggs
Minister of War
Koharian Ministry

(OOC: Thank you Thmpson. I think my last post was alrhight, right?)

OOC:
@Kaharia: Much better, yes.
@Sultenia: No problem.

IC:

NSS Hearken, Bridge

The sun was quickly falling over the bow of the carrier, now obscured by one of her escort destroyers in front, its beaming comms tower blotting out the sun for the Carrier on the quickly darkening horizon.

"Sir," said the comms officer, "We have an incoming message from the Koharian Ministry of War."

The Captain's eyebrows raised as he placed his chin on his well-kept grey beard and scratched. "Well, what is it Hickenson?" He replied with a sigh; it had been a long and he was just about to turn in for the evening.

"Sir, they seem to wish to merge a small fleet of landing craft and submarines with ours as we progress to the area, joining our fleet."

"In intent or just formation?" He quickly replied.

"Unknown sir," Hickenson replied.

"Alright," the Captain began, pacing the room, "Tell them that they can merge their fleet with ours, but I want to see the commanding officer of their task force as soon as they do."

"Yes sir, sending communique now."

Communique to Koharian Ministry of War

You have permission to meld your fleet into our formation at your own discretion and time frame, on the condition that our COs meet to discuss intent and plans once our transit to the Laceenian coast-line has been completed.

Captain Rieding Nabaal, NSS Hearken

Satellite Information Center, Monitoring Room Number 602

It had been a very long day for a young Lieutenant and his men; monitoring a small nation in the Pacific for hours on end while attempting to discover the strength of a nuclear device by seismic readings, visual data, and telemetry scans without break did take its toll on even the brightest and best if given sufficient time.

"Lieutenant Garand," said a young sergeant sitting in a seat in front of a monitor.

"Yes Biggs?" the sergeant said, moving across the room slowly to the desk of the call, large monitors on the tall walls illuminating the scene with all manner of data they had on Laceenia.

"Sir, I've finished my analysis on the blast," he said straining his neck in his seat to look at the Lieutenant.

"And?" Lieutenant Garand replied, pressing his spectacles neatly upon his nose with his right hand.

"Uh, Right sir," the nervous sergeant replied, tapping a few keys. One of the screens on the wall in front of the two flickered on for a moment, and then displayed readings and pictures of the blast from different angles as satellites flew over the area. "Our initial analysis of the blast, including the data we captured of the blast as well as seismographic data from the National Oceanic Society indicates that the blast was most likely anywhere from ten to thirty kilotons."

"Ten kilotons? That's your margin of error?" the Lieutenant said more perplexed than annoyed.

"Yes sir, without more exact readings on the ground, we won't be able to rule out any number of errors or possible errors in our data here for a more thorough and exacting analysis."

"Well then," Garand replied coyly, "It is good that we have a naval group traveling to Laceenia to do just that sergeant," he said, patting him on the shoulder as he walked back to his desk to review the analysis from the comfort of his own desk.

Stockmoor International Airport
"Three-six-two, Stockmoor tower. Radar contact confirmed. Runway One-Seven left in use, descend and maintain two-thousand until established on localiser."

On the ground, a single white saloon sat awaiting the arrival of the foreign visitor. Inside, a middle aged gentleman sat patiently reading a copy of the Laceenian Courier. It could almost have been a routine diplomatic visit. All involved knew it wasn't.


LAF Grandsworth SIGINT Centre
The general mood within the station was slightly more tense than usual. They'd picked up on a lot of encrypted traffic over the last few hours, with many of the messages so heavily disguised they'd been ordered not to attempt to decode them. Most of the staff on shift were higher ranking than usual and had been fully briefed on the unfolding situation.

"This message came in from the Commonwealth of Estovakia earlier today." A sheet of paper was pushed under the nose of the Shift Supervisor, "I think it needs to be handled quickly."

The supervisors eyes skimmed across the message "Leave it with me, I'll get a message to them ASAP."

Response to the Commonwealth of Estovakia
The Republic of Laceenia feels it is entitled to have a nuclear deterrent, especially in such a turbulent global community. In an age where wars can be measured in minutes, with casualties in the tens of millions, the only effective deterrent is the capability to respond not only in kind, but with overwhelming force.

We, obviously, hope never to use them, but will retain a nuclear deterrent, much the same as we keep a standing army as a deterrent against conventional warfare. We would happily meet with representatives of your nation in order to help strengthen our relations and reassure you of our intentions.


Cabinet Briefing Room Echo, Stockmoor
A female aide handed the latest intelligence report to Mason Banks before quickly retreating.

"Dammit! This is looking bad." Banks glanced around the empty room, as if expected someone to be lurking in one of the corners. Reports of intercepted communications, increased military readiness abroad and there was nothing he could to satisfy the international community as a whole. He picked up the phone on his desk and dialled a number.

"Increase the rate of enrichment, the international community could be about to kick our door in, and if worse comes to worse, we need that final option open to us."

Before even getting an acknowledgement the phone was hung up.

Stockmoor International Airport

"Roger that, coming in now," the pilot replied to the tower calmly.

"Ugh, three-six-two-E1?" said the escort plane flanking the Leerjet to the right.

"Yes E2?" the pilot on the left of the Leerjet replied.

"So, I'd say they got here safely. RTB?"

"You called it," E1's pilot said as he pulled left and then up on his stick, breaking away from the Leerjet, making thin, white lines in the air as he did so. The two began to ex filtrate, coming the way they had gotten. "We've got an extender on the way back, right?" he said, eying his fuel gauge tentatively as it loomed around 25%.

"Yeah," E2's pilot resounded back confidently. "It's out at the one-hundred nautical mile mark from their territorial waters, heading one-seven-three altitude thirty-five thousand. It should be orbiting around that area waiting for us by now."

The Leerjet, now uninhibited by its escorts, had more breathing room as it jockeyed into position to the correct landing strip. It's landing was smooth and graceful - well, about as smooth and graceful as several thousand pounds of aluminum, rubber, wire, and flesh could come to the ground on tarmac anyway.

Majior, the diplomatic officer of the envoy, unbuckled his belt and quickly moved to the doorway, pushing passed the guards who were already there.

"Majior!" Grenge snapped. "Behind the guards. Now."

Majior looked up at the white ceiling of the aircraft, rolled his eyes and then look at the Captain in a very matter-of-fact manner and said: "Captain, while I respect your worry and authority, do you really think the first thing that the Laceenians need to see is four large, bulky armed to the teeth stormtroopers, or a neat man in a nice suit extending an open arm?"

Grenge stood there for a moment, staring Majior in the eye sternly, unsuccessfully pretending to consider the argument. "Fine," he said begrudgingly, moving behind him.

The door of the aircraft opened, and a thin set of stairs descended onto the tarmac, which the six men then moved to very orderly, the four guards standing at attention, making a box around the two men who were practically shoulder to shoulder.

NSS Hearken

"Captain," said a young man who barged into the bridge of the carrier quite noticeably and short of breath, carrying a paper transcript in his hands.

"Yes son?" Captain Rieding asked puzzled by the man's lack of breath. "Where's the fire?"

"Here," he said, stretching out his arm and handing the Captain a few sheets of paper. The Captain eyed them cautiously, and then snatched them from the ensign's hands, reading the transcript in quips and phrases for the bridge to hear.

"...evening...President Tyler...Due to...nuclear tests...we have drafted a response to this...aggression. We shall be joining a Nabaali fleet and advising that Laceenia place down his arms." The Captain stared at the transcript for a moment, his off-hand rubbing his beard before he addressed his comms officer.

"Well," he began, "It seems to me that someone could misinterpret this message quite easily. Send a communique to Laceenia reinforcing our peace-keeping mission, specifically stating that we have absolutely no intention of disarmament, and come only to secure the waters from acts of aggression from other nations."

"Yes sir," Hickenson replied.

"Also, Flight Boss..."

"Yes sir?" a middle-aged, very fit man wearing aviator glasses and sporting a deep, authoritative, calm voice replied.

"We're close enough to begin patrolling Laceenia's territorial waters by air with mid-air refueling, correct?"

"Yes Captain," the flight boss replied calmly.

"Good. Scare up some Condors. Load them out with ASW and Anti-ship armament, and then get them some Xs equipped with and a lot of air superiority missiles."

"Yes sir," he replied quickly and saluted, getting to work as he swiveled his chair around and pulled up his microphone, alerting the ship for combat operations, gathering the necessary aircraft and ammunition, and so on.

In fifteen or so minutes, the first squadron was up into the air, screaming off the deck as a deep white hiss thundered across the hull, ripping the four aircraft in the squadron off the deck and hurling them into the air, one after another in quick succession.

Communique to Laceenia

We have absolutely no intention of your disarmament in any manner, believing ourselves that a nation has every right to deterrence of any sort necessary, so long as they are humane and intelligible in its application. As a sign of good-will and to prove our intent, we have begun a patrol of the seas around your territorial waters, with an emphasis of the area around the event, in case enemy reconnaissance craft should attempt a fly-by, submarines attempt missile barrage or delivery of personnel, or otherwise. The craft are going in heavy for Anti-Submarine, Anti-Ship and Anti-Air warfare.

Regards,

Captain Rieding, NSS Hearken

OOC:

Aircraft up:
Eight Squadrons F/A-2 Air-Superiority Aircraft
(All AA equipped)
Eight Squadrons F/A-31N Multirole Aircraft
(Four Anti-shipping, Four ASW equipped)
Two Squadrons F/A-31N Multirole Aircraft
(Loaded-out with fuel tanks for mid-air refueling)

1000h, Day 4, LC-2 Intruder Corinthian

Fleet Admiral Carmen Aleverties examined the small flight deck from the tower he was sitting in. At 5'11" and nearly 180 pounds, Aleverties was a lanky man. His disposition was almost always moody, like his face had been glued to look like he had just been in a fight. He was very hard on his crew to get everything right. They had only had this landing craft for a year and a half now and his crews had no combat experience, but he was sure they would be okay if, and when, the time came.

Aleverties very low pitch foice called out, "Helmsmen, when can we start off. I would like to go as fast as we can."

"Sir, we are waiting for one of the Los Angeles subs and then we should be off."

Aleverties sighed. When Naval Weapons Commandant had approached him saying that they are going to form with a Nabaali fleet, he had almost laughed. Now it was no joke. With his and his sister ship, the Canteburr, and their submarine escorts armed to the teeth with ordenance. He expected a fight. Thatr was one thing he was trying very hard not to provoke.

1030h

"Mr. President, the battle group is off. Estimated Time of Arrival, 2 days 7 hours," a senior Enlisted Officer informed him.

"Thank you," he replied," I would like to know when the battle group has arrived. Mr. Calihorn, please draft a message to the Nabaali Fleet Commander, informing him of our battle groups arival."

"Yes, sir," Martin Calihorn said as he scurried to do his job.

Official Koharian Communique

To:Captain Rieding Nabaal, NSS Hearken
From: President Tyler Conroy, Koharia

Our battle group will be arriving in approximately 2 days, 7 hours. Fleet Admiral Carmen Aleverties will be arriving on your ship to discuss tactics. He has orders that state you are in command. He is to report to you. Our ships are currently holding 8 F-35 Lightning II's and 8 F-88 Ghosts (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=10242754&postcount=1647). They are also at your disposal.

President Tyler Conroy

LAF Jannings SIGINT Centre
LAF Jannings housed the nations largest signals intelligence centre, monitoring communications from around the world, both civil and government. A lot of the traffic intercepted was encrypted, and depending on the source, was often simply relegated to a file in a store room.

"Incoming message from the NSS Hearken. Looks important, Sir." It had been like this all day. Every base across Laceenia had been sending near constant messages about contacts big or small, and each time one technician or another would hand the message over to this supervisor. A sudden panic seemed to have swept through the national military. Everything from amuture radio to charity balloon releases would send the airwaves burning with encrypted messages being bounced back and forth.

"Let me see that, it better not be any more panic driven drivel or you'll regret bringing it to my attention." The supervisor took the sheet and skim-read it. "Looks like this needs at least acknowledging. As if my day hasn't been busy enough."

Response to NSS Hearken
Thank you for clarifying your intent. Do not be alarmed if we perform occassional overflights of your vessels. These are purely routine and apply to any vessel, civilian or military, operating within Laceenian territorial waters.

We also thank you for supporting our nation.

On behalf of Lanceenian Ministry of Defence
Operator D351-700, LAF Jannings

OOC: Is it ok if I jump into this?

OOC: I just recently got back into NS after about two years

OOC: Is it ok if I jump into this?

(OoC: A little late to the party, but fashionably late. Feel free to jump right on in!)

The message to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was received and Mr. Whitmore decided to send one of his diplomats to meet with the Laceenian government. The man he had in mind was inexperienced and just out of college, but smart and he had faith in him.

Mr. Whitmore buzzed his secretary. "I want Kulov on a plane heading for Laceenia in two hours."

The secretary instantly quipped back. "Will do."

"And send a message to the Laceenians. Let them know we're coming."

"Will do Mr. Whitmore."

"Thanks."

Two hours later, at Stovakgrad International Airport, Kulov's limousine pulled up to a government hanger. The driver got out and opened the passenger door. Three people emerged. The first to exit the vehicle was a rather plump but prim woman in her seventies. The second was a Captain of the Black Guard in full service dress. The third was Kulov himself, looking very awkward.

The pilot of the plane came foward and shook hands with Kulov. "This your first time?"

Kulov looked straight ahead as if being interrogated. "Yes sir."

The pilot stepped back and drew a smile. "So we got a virgin here. First time, eh? Nervous? Don't throw up."

The woman stepped foward. "Let him be. He's nervous enough to be teased like this."

"Nah, he knows I'm just kidding around. Right chief?" The pilot patted Kulov's shoulder. Kulov nodded and smiled weakly, trying the best he could to suppress the urge to throw up.

The pilot continued. "It'll be 6 hours to Pacific Estovakia, then another 4 hours until we reach the West Coast. You'll switch pilots in the Unorganized Territory then continue another 10 hours to Laceenia. That should be more than enough time to settle down. They should know you're coming. Okay? Any questions?"

Kulov shook his head.

"Good. Let's board then."

In ten minutes the plane was in the sky, heading toward Laceenia.

CTS Lark (CV-52)
Fifty Nautical Miles from Laceenian Waters

The Commonwealth had sent no formal messages to the Laceenians, nor was it very likely to do so anything soon. Wheter or not some backwater nation far from any Tolvanic holdings of any consequence possessed nuclear weapons wasn't that important to the Tolvanic government. There were already plans to disband Force L and return the ships to their regular patrol routes, but first the government wanted to make sure Laceenia knew they were being watched.

The two F-194A "Pandoras" had taken off from the Lark just before dawn and headed towards Laceenian airspace slowly. Once they reached a point five nautical miles from the boundary they headed for an area known to be patrolled by Laceenian aircraft. Once on station they activated their powerful APG-127 AESA radar sets and began radiating into Laceenian airspace. Once the pilots were satisfied that the locals had detected their signals, they powered down their radars and headed back to the carrier.

Stockmoor International Airport
The car pulled alongside the Learjet. It was, as would be expected, on government plates. The rear passenger side door opened and a slim, short man stepped from the vehicle. This was Leo Gibson, a diplomat presently off assignment, with a reputation in the Diplomatic Corps for being as tactful as he could be bullish.

Carefully watching the foreign visitors disembark from their aircraft, he ducked his head back inside the car and spoke to his drive. "Lets get the other car up here, looks like our guests move in packs." Anyone within range with a public licence radio would have heard the short burst of traffic as the second, almost identical, car was called up.

"Gentlemen," Leo spoke as he strode forwards, removing his mirrored aviator-style sunglasses as he spoke. "On behalf of the government and people of Laceenia, I welcome you to our fair republic. I hope your journey was a pleasant one?"

LAF Denton
The base had sprung in to life almost as soon as the Tovlan F-194A's had been detected approaching Laceenian airspace. A pair of Tornado ADV's were scrambled shortly after the initial contact was confirmed as an unknown. As soon as their radar's began illuminating Laceenian airspace, a further two Tornado's had been scrambled.

As the first pair neared the Tovlanic aircrafts position, they noted the two jets had already broken off and were heading away from Laceenia. Under strict orders purely to move the intruders away, and with this being accomplished of the F-194's own accord, the Tornado's took to patrolling the airspace.

No doubt the message would get back to military commanders on all sides that the nation, despite it's heightened alert state, had still been caught with its trousers down.

Fort Redlawn, Imperial City, Fort Ash
Private Quarters of Emperor Farrow

(The phone rings)

"What is it?"

"There is a situation, in Laceenia, Emperor"

Emperor Farrow looked into his database for the country, "I'm listening."

"A detonation, a nuclear detonation, has been reported."

Emperor Farrow remembered the Great CAD Wars and his heart stopped. "Send Azrael and a Falcon unit to Laceenia, this is a sensitive matter. Send word to Laceenia to request a visit with their Head of State. Lock down the Fortress and alert Minister Callus for DEFCON procedures, we are now at DEFCON 2."

"Yes, your Highness" (the phone clicked)

Emperor Farrow took a look outside and saw a flash vision of former countries.


The FAS Dawn
Flight Deck

The Commanche landed a little rough as Underminister Azrael jumped out. The Honor Guard snapped to attention with a crisp salute as Capt. Alex Krieg met Azrael. Azrael handed the papers to Kreig and they both walked towards the Ship's Main.

"Krieg...Do you remember the old country?"

"There is no war yet Azrael, it is your job to assure us of that."

"Then we must be going, Capt."

"Yes, Underminister...Full Speed to coordinates eight-five-niner-thirty two, xo you have the bridge"

"Yes,SIR!" The XO took the orders moved post-haste to the bridge.


Deployed

Underminister Azrael
-Hand to Hand Expert
-Weapons Expert
-Distinguished War Veteran
-1 Ceremonial Sword
-1 Desert Eagle w/ two mags
Falcon Unit
1 Ship (Carrier Class)
-CG9 PWR
-5 5-16s
-4 5-22s
-1 AWACs C-130
-1 Falcon Recon Platoon
1 Ship (Wolfgang Submarine Class)
-Silent Rotors
-550MW Rolls Royce PWR

The Heartless
Flight Deck of the FAS Dawn
55 Nautical Miles off Laceenia Coast

Azrael gave Lt. Vincente "Gambit" Gambaccini the coordinates to LAF Denton.

"Fly at 165 Knots so not to alarm them don't worry we are expected, follow their directions to the tee, any mistakes will lead you to court-martial. Am I understood?"

"Yes, Underminister"

"Also keep all weapons disengaged, the fire-and-forgets will ping their radars into overtime"

"Yes, Underminister...We are clear for takeoff switching off night shroud

The Commanche lifted off followed by two circling F-22s

"I want the fighters to disengage at the shore line." Azrael said to Lt. "Gambit"

Deployed

Underminister Azrael
-Hand to Hand Expert
-Weapons Expert
-Distinguished War Veteran
-1 Ceremonial Sword
-1 Desert Eagle w/ two mags
Falcon Unit
1 Ship (Carrier Class)
-CG9 PWR
-5 5-16s
-4 5-22s
-1 AWACs C-130
-1 Falcon Recon Platoon
1 Ship (Wolfgang Submarine Class)
-Silent Rotors
-550MW Rolls Royce PWR

OOC: What type of ship is the FAS Dawn?

OOC: Aircraft Carrier, sorry I didn't make that clear

OOC: Aircraft Carrier, sorry I didn't make that clear

OOC: Your air wing is extremely small in that case. Just nine fighters and a C-130 (which is very inefficient for carrier ops). Also, I don't think you fly an F-16 off a carrier without a major overhaul and that costs tons of money, I'd switch to the F-35C instead. Finally, carriers never travel without escorts.

OOC: I understand Thompson, I will try to do my best on improving my horrible English and the creative writing, and I apologize for my delay on responding to this.

ooc: My country used to be fortress royal and was destroyed these are just remnants from the CAD war about two ooc years back, I hinted at that in my first post. that is why the force is small. Escorts according are almost always provided but in extreme duress carriers have been known to travel without escorts in american history between the WWII and the Korean conflict

ooc: Some examples may include the USS Thetis Bay or the Gilbert Islands, however later on they were stripped of aircraft and converted into amphibious assault ships. Let me be more clear Escort Carriers, or Jeep Carriers as the british called them, held up to 15-17 planes, modified to modern, would be about ten. so maybe my amount of planes is to much sorry

ooc: sorry if I am noobing it up its been awhile

OOC:

@ Vietnam Empire: No need to take it quite that hard, buddy. Is English your first language? If not, than I offer my condolences for being so harsh. I was under the assumption that it was, not trying to scare you off. Do you have Microsoft Word? If you do, open it, and post in there first, if the language is set to English it will do a LOT of the grammar and spelling for you. Alternatively you could just surf the internet with Firefox, it spell checks EVERYTHING.

@ Fort Ash: Go back to page two and read the last post on it. Assume that your name is Sultenia while you read it.

@all: sorry for the short post, need sleep...zzz
IC:

Stockmoor International Airport

The early night sky was illuminated by the many lights of the tarmac of Stockmoor as the men formed up in a box around the Diplomatic and SIC Officers. Soon a new pair of lights joined them: a government-plate-brandishing sedan, and soon a twin rolled into position.

"But of course," Majior replied in a sort of warm yet cold and precise manner that only a diplomat or statesman could. "So," Majior began, "I believe introductions are in order. My name," Majior continued, his words and gestures seeming well-thought out and choreographed beforehand, "Is Majior Paktu. But please, call me Majior; Paktu is merely my kiith name, and many hundreds of thousands share it," he finished, shaking the diplomat's hand with conviction.

"My name," began the awkwardly out-of place looking leathery statue to his right, "Is Captain Grenge Kadesh. You may call me Captain Grenge for the same reason," he said, extending not a handshake but a salute.

"Well, then," Majior said while motioning to the cars, "I do believe our rides have arrived?"
he continues as he began to walk toward the first vehicle. The four guards surrounding them broke-off and moved to the second vehicle and shuffled in as quickly and quietly as they could.

0100h, Day 5, LC-2 "Corinthian"

The sweet ocean air blew in Fleet Admiral Carmen Aleverties face as he stood watching the ocean. This was one of the things that attracted him to the Naval Weapons Force. He loved the ocean. He could remember when he was young, swimming and playing in the water. He stepped closer to the edge. He looked into the deep ocean depths. As the ship crested over the wave and Aleverties slipped. He was in the water. No one was watching. No one saw their captain fall into the waters. A fin drew closer and closer. It bit him on the leg and dragged him down.

Aleverties awoke from the nightmare. He was drenched with sweat and was breaking a young enlisted officers hand. He let go and with his trademark growl said, "What?'

"Sir, we need you on the bridge something has happened to the Canteburr."

0110h, LC-2 "Corinthian" Bridge

"Give me a status report," Aleverties siaid breathlessly. He had thrown on his uniform and rushed to the bridge, nearly 4 decks above. He had reached the bridge in record time.

"Sir, we have a problem with one of the boilers," said the Canteburr Captain, Captian William Ambrose, "One of the seals must have popped under the pressure. We have a fire-control team down there, the steam is so hot. I can only guess how long they will take. It might be ten minutes, it might be 2 hours. Someone must have screwed up on the design. They placed the boiler over-ride system in the boiler room itself."

"Ok, please keep me informed." Aleverties hung up the mike. "God dammit. Ensign Richardson, please draft a note to both Commandant Goldmeyer and Captain Nabaal, explaining what has happened.And get it done fast or you will be shoveling shit out the ship." he added. He knew that this was gonna be a long tour.

Official Koharian Communique

To: Commandant Jerald Feilding
Re: Captain Reiding Nabaal

We have lost power to one of our LC-2 ships. We have been stopped and are undergoing repairs. We do not know when we will be off again. We hope it will be quick.

Fleet Admiral Carmen Aleverties

ooc: Sorry Mr. Thompson, no need to be stern, I was just trying to catch up with storyline. Also I apologize to the thread, didn't mean to offend with my time warping. I have drill so gotta hit the rack.

IC:

Fortress Redlawn, Imperial City, Fort Ash
Central Chamber

Emperor Farrow thought back to the horrors of his once vibrant homeland now turned radioactive wasteland. At that time they had been a great nation, with a powerful alliance. He was a young ruler but aged in mind. His heart ached with pain as he remembered the palace guard rushing away from the country and his forces fighting to the last man, in an effort to evacuate as many as possible and hold the borders. The nuclear holocaust was etched in his heart. With limited forces of a fledgling collection of ships, soldiers, elite guards, civil service, and just enough currency to maintain maneuvers, and the country itself he knew he would have to get allies. Azrael's mission was clear, find the intentions of this nuke toting country and report. Sending Azrael may not have been a good idea, Azrael lost his family in the CAD War to the Nuclear Catastrophe.

Emperor Farrow picked up his phone. "Tell Admiral Brickam to send out another cruiser"

This was getting expensive but it had to be done, He could not leave Azrael without backup and the sub was not enough to cover the carrier.

Combat Information Center (CIC)
FAS Dawn
"Hmm..." Captain Krieg thought to himself. "XO there are certainly more than just us and our fellow submariner out here. I hope this dosen't get ugly" He sipped his coffee slowly. He wasn't particularly happy about being deployed and not having a fleet to back him and an empty admiral's quarters. "This is suicide. Azrael better bring some good news."

OOC: I am hoping this will satisfy you Thompson on some way. If you see anything wrong, feel free to let me know. Sorry the delay on my post, the time frame is off. Trying to catch up

I was born in US, but English isn't the language I learned first till around age of 4 when my cousin started to speak English to me. I also have English weakness when I entered grade school years ago, but I am hoping that my creative writing and reading will improve by RPing here and other forums. I'll take your advice on Microsoft Word and no problem about the harshness, I can handle it.
------------------------------------
The National Assembly; Lobby Room; Day 2

President Mendoza was being escorted to his Limo before interrupted by the House Speaker.

"Mr. President!! Should we inform the public about this incident at Larceenia?" said Van Nguyen-Vu

Mendoza thought about it, brushed his hair roughly with his hand, and responded to Van's question. "Yes, I will inform the public about the incident, and make it come up nationally....in all news network channels. Any MORE questions before I go off and prepare my speech for the public?" said Mendoza, despite the rough question to the Speaker, and that Mendoza haven't had breakfast with his family which usually get him cranky.

"No more questions Mr. President..." said the Speaker, while noticing that the President's right eye is twitching, and decided not to dare ask another question.

"Good" said Mendoza, then marches towards the elevator which will lead to the basement garage where the Limo is located.

The Vietnam Empire Naval Headquarters; Day 3?

In the Head Admiral's Office, ADM. Jason Le is feeding his goldfishes and heard the hard knock at the door.

"Come in!" said Adm. Le and saw Secretary of Defense, Colonel Johnny Vu.
"Oh Johnny, are we still going to play some golf?" said Adm. Le with excitement about the golf game.

"Ugh, hate to say this...but we have to reschedule that..." said Johnny

Adm. Le dropped the fish food on the ground and stand up...peacefully then answer with outrage "WHAT!! THAT'S THE 5th TIME YOU ARE DOING THIS!!!"

Col. Vu raised his arms to try to reason himself, and answered "Hey hey, calm down Admiral Le, I have a good reason for this. Have you heard the todays news about Larceenia?"

"Yes......I have.....and how that's a reason for your stupid excuse of yours?!?" said Admiral Le, and with such an outrage, his eyes and face are bright red.

"Well....President Mendoza issued an intervention to Larceenia by sending a Naval Fleet and Marine. He is preparing to inform the public about this intervention." said Col. Le, and hoped that his answer will redeem himself.

Admiral Le falls backwards to his hair and slapped himself in front of his face with both hands. Took a deep breath and answered peacefully while thinking about the golf game must be delayed.

"Well...I am hoping your right about this. What are his orders on fleet assignment?" said Le, while put on his glasses to see if there's any paperwork that Col. Vu brought in.

Vu responded "Yes, in fact there is" Vu put his hands inside his black blazer, pull out a folder, gave it to the Admiral, and said "This is the type of ships that are recommended for this assignment"

Admiral snatches the paper with slight anger about the delayed golf game and scanned the paper

"Head Naval Admiral Le, with the intervention on Larceenia this are ships are recommend for this assignment, you can adjust on what ships and the numbers of them are going. Here are the list

Naval Fleet
3x Destroyers
4x Amphibious transport ships
1x Carriers
2x Amphibious Assaults Ships
5x Corvettes
2x Battle Cruisers
2x Frigates
3x Attack Submarines
1x SSGN Submarines (Purpose to shoot down Nukes)

110th Division "Blazing Tiger", Royal Marine Corps.
--10,000 Troops

You will be responsible for the 110th Division; Royal Marines. The Head Marine General has already been notified about it.

Sincerely,
President Isham Mendoza

"Holy mackerel, sending 23 ships to Larceenia is like...a declaration of war...unless he is asking us just to patrol near the waters of Larceenia...which I highly assuming so...but I am totally not sending 23 ships." said Admiral Le, while thinking about adjusting the numbers of ships.

"Okay, I decide to send only 12 ships. Is there anymore other announcements Col. Vu? Said Le with curiosity and a rise left eyebrow

"Nope Admiral, I am going to leave you be. Bye" said Col. Vu, saluted to Adm. Le, and left.

During this moment, Admiral Le picked up his phone and called Navy Base; Cat Phu. To announcement the deployment to Larceenia



UPDATED FLEET

Naval Fleet
1x Destroyers
2x Amphibious transport ships
-Contains: 2 CH-53 Sea Stallion (each)
1x Carriers
-Contains: 8 F-35 Lightning II; 2 A-10 Thunderbolt II
3x Heavy Landing Craft
2x Battle Cruisers
1x Frigates
1x Attack Submarines
1x SSGN Submarines (Purpose to shoot down Nukes)

(OOC: Im leaving on vacation for about two weeks. Sorry about this. Nabaali may continue to lead my ships without me. Thanks)

(OOC: Please tell me what you think of this style of writing, I need to know so I can improve as I am new to this whole "role-play nations", also note for those that don't know "Marten" is the codename for my special forces they are not actual martens just for the record, i'm not fantasy animal thingie oriented)

Western dockyards, Jutenheim, The Emirate of Sultenia

The night was still, the water and air was still, these dockyard had not been used for ages nor repaired it seemes even the bulletholes in the werehouses were original, all left to rot after the civil war.

A dark van came through the gates in the north and parked parked near a large stack of rusted containers.

"Ok men, unload, all equipment check before you close the door." A voice was heard in the back of the van.

The two men jumped out of the van and closed the door behind them. They had traveled for a couple of hours, got some shut eye in the back of the van but were told that with the time it would take to travel to Laceenia they were going to get all the sleep they needed. The boat had to be civilian so of course it would go slower than they were used to.
In their dark fatigues and backpacks the Martens placed themselves in front of the van.
The commander opened the door and climbed out of the van.

"This is were we part ways men, go four piers down this road and at the fifth your boat is waiting, a civilian guard will hand over the keys and then he will leave, don't worry he is thrustworthy. I wish you the best of luck in the name of the nation." He shook both their hands and each one nodded as thanks. They knew that if this mission was compromised this would be the last time they'd meet.

The van drove away leaving the Martens on their own now. They started walking towards the boat.

Marten 2 said in a calm low voice "Do you think we will get free sodas on the ship?" He has always been a bit of a joker, and many Martens often asked themselves how did he pass the tests?
"I smuggled in four cans of it in my pack." Answerd Marten 1, always a bit of a rulebreaker, obeying orders to the fullest but would alwys carry them out in a manner he saw fit. And right now the orders did not say anything about sodas.

They passed through the docklands, dark and damp, the buildings looked ready to crumble many joked that if there were ever a storm the goverment wouldn't have to worry about demolition.

They approaced the guard, he had a rel stone face and a thousand yard stare. He just handed them the keys and mumbled the simple words "god speed". The boat, your everyday civilian motorboat, no distinct features, painted in a dusty dirt black but quite large.

The pack were stown away in the cabin and the engine was started, they started to move following a gps the boat had an "auto-drive" the course was set, but what would be the state of Laceenia when they got there? Would they be a target or would Laceenia have more pressing issues than a lone pair of spies armed with nothing more than a camera?

LAF Denton
The radar screen showed an group of aircraft moving towards Laceenian airspace that hadn't been there before. A slightly paniced controller waved his supervisor over to his side. Following the earlier incident, the entire base was on the highest alert possible. "I've got aircraft inbound! Picking up three signatures. Checking against known movements. Positive ID, it's the group from Fort Ash."

"Redirect two of the Tornado's on patrol to join up with them just inside our airspace just to make sure they don't try anything stupid." The supervisor was getting incredibly fed up with this. He knew what had to be done in this situation, as did the controllers. Unfortunately for all of them everything now had an additional hoop to go through thanks to someone in government deciding everything needed a supers green light.

"Roger that." The controller changed frequency and give the order, "Wasp Seven, this is Delta Nest....."


Stockmoor International Airport
Leo returned the handshake, and smiled approvingly at the salute. He'd never been in the armed forces, so felt returning it would have been disrespectful to those men and women who had served.

"It's good to meet you gentlemen. I am Leo Gibson, everyone not on my staff call me Leo, so that seems to apply to you. Unless either of you are looking for alternative employment?" He smiled wryly, his words half joking, half serious.

He watched as the drivers each opened the rear door on their car, beckoning Majior, Grenge and their entourage in to the relatively luxurious interiors. "If you have no objections, it may be best if we travel directly to the government building to discuss the current... situation." The pause before the last word was tellingly long. Leo didn't like to admit it, but the test, and the international reaction to it, made him nervous. More so when he considered up until twenty-four hours ago he had the same blinkered view as the rest of the Laceenian population. A view he'd been all to happy to believe.


MoD Building, Stockmoor
There didn't seem to be the slightest pause in the flow of intelligence reports coming in to the office of Josh Dixon. He'd just thought he might be able to see his desk again when an aide had brought a further half-dozen folders for him to read.

"How many ships?" He bit his tongue lightly as he read the latest report on foreign naval power converging on Laceenia. "At this rate there's going to be more ships in our water that don't belong to us than do. I can't call back Task Force Emissary, they're too far away to be of much use anyhow. I really hope these guys are all here to play nice. Last thing we need is a conflict kicking off on our doorstep."


Laceenian Territorial Waters
The Nimrod cruised at a little under five-hundred miles an hour along the border with international airspace. Another patrol, another five or so hours wasted. At least that's how it felt to the crew of twelve.

"Still nothing but open water and ships we know about. Sometimes I wish I'd gone to fighter school." The pilot said calmly

His co-pilot chuckled before replying, "And then what? You'd still have just as much empty ocean to stare over, except you wouldn't have the company."

"I s'pose. I'm going to take her down low, see if we can't have a bit of fun."

"Whatever you do, don't drag a wing, last thing I want to do is spend the rest of this patrol bobbing in the sea like an apple."

"Don't worry." The pilot grinned as he spoke "Even if I did, there's so much military activity out here we'd be picked up in less than an hour!"

OOC: Laceenia - If you wanna have some fun let that Nimrod move into international airspace and I'll send some fighters to harrass it.

Edge of Laceenian Airspace
Travelling at less than three-hundred feet, the Nimrod began preparing to turn onto the second to last leg of its patrol. Mile after mile of open water had bored the crew half to death. Occasionally a ship would loom out of the haze on the horizon. Mostly they were civilian vessels, but once or twice they had overflown a military vessel as low as they dared.

"Pilot, ACO," One of the weapons officer broke the silence within the craft, "I've got something off our ten, could be a sub."

"That puts it in international waters" The pilot glanced out the left-hand window even though he knew there was no way he'd be able to see the thing. They were bang up against the limit of Lanceenian airspace. There was no physical boundary, but he knew his wing tip was almost skimming that imaginary line.

"Only just, but given the current situation I still think it's worth a look. It might be nothing, it might be something carrying two-dozen nukes targeted on our cities and bases." The weapons officer watched his screen intently, "Worst case, we've looked into a ghost."

"And you think that's the worst case..." The pilot nodded to himself and turned the yoke, "Still, making the turn, let's go have a look and see what's got your computer so jumpy."

The Nimrod broke from it's allocated pattern towards the mysterious submerged target the system had identified. All looked normal as the jet approached the area where the object had been detected.

"ACO, Pilot, you reading anything sub like down there?"

"Negative, the entire systems pulled a blank now. I think we should drop sonar buoys and loiter until we can be certain there's nothing lurking down there."

"Copy that, do what you must." The pilot spoke as he circled the aircraft back in the direction of the initial reading.

The Nimrod dropped a pair of sonar buoys and began monitoring the returns.


MoD Building, Stockmoor
"Yes, I fully understand what the consequences could be, but we can't just stop at this stage, can we? Yes, I am well aware of how many ships are out there, I've read nothing but report after report this morning. You've got your schedule and your orders, make sure you carry them out."

Josh slammed the phone back into the cradle and stared intently out of the window. "The international community kick up a bit of a fuss and my generals start to panic. You'd think they didn't believe in their own troops." He took a mouthful of coffee from his mug and picked up the next file on his desk. He had work to do, as did everyone in the government and, indeed, the country.

CTS Lark

The carrier's AWACS, call sign Dead Eye, had been tracking the Laceenian Nimrod for nearly two hours when it moved into international airspace. The E-2's Air Intercept Officer (AIO) radioed in the development to the carrier and asked for permission to shake the Laceenians up a bit. After a few minutes the task force commander gave the go ahead and the controllers vectored two of the CAP's F-194As in for a close fly by of the Nimrod.

Open ocean, sea route to Laceenia.

It was still hours until sunrise, the sky was cloudy so there was not light not even a moon but Marten protocol strictly forbade the use of lights, when it is this dark, light travel miles and miles to the watchful enemy.

The motorboat continued on route to the droppoint, the sea was calm.

Marten 2 on post suddenly snapped up. He ran over to the cabin.
"Oi, wake up!"

Marten 1 went wide awake.
"What?"

"Hear that?" Marten 2 answerd.

"That's a big ship!" Marten 1 quickly took out a pair of binoculars and scoped in the direction of the sound. "Its there allright, but I cant make it out, it's too far away, a cruiser maybe?"

"Let's see the capacity of this camera trinket." Marten 2 took out the big camera and the longest lens he could find. He panned and zoomed as far as he could, the capacity of this monster absolutely dwarfed the binoculars range.
What he saw, he was lost for words and simply said "Bring up that data transmitter, this must be brought back to HQ."

Marten 1 connected the camera and started up the transmitter, it was working flawlessly, cutting edge technology, Marten 1 rememberd the days back in the civil war, how he used disposable cameras for recon missions back then and now this was the new standard.
The video transmission started, fully magnified HQ could cleary see what it was, along with message "heading towards target", a giant carrier ship with escort vessels but even with this magnifying glass they were long away and judging by the sound there must be many more.

Marten 1 kicked his pack in anger he knew what this meant and he did not like it one bit. Either the local military would be too busy to care about a pair of spies or the bastards would be on full alert making the mission a drag, sure they could snak past them easily but it would take more time and the mission did not have time to spare, they were already late.

Over International Waters
The Nimrod banked around one last time as the weapons officer squinted at his screen, almost willing something to be there. As the plane came out of the bank, he finally admitted defeat, "Nothing. Whatever it was, it's not there now. Sonar's completely clear. Could've been a school of fish I guess."

No sooner has he finished speaking than the radar operator burst over the comms "Radar contacts! Two fast movers inbound."

"Where the hell did they come from? Co-pilot, lets get back to friendly airspace." The pilot slammed the throttle forward, feeling the aircraft shudder as the engines spooled up, "This is Papa One Two to friendly stations. We are being intercepted by two aircraft of unknown origin and intent."

"Roger that One Two, keep us up to speed, I'm routing Tornado's to your position. Continue dry at this time." The voice at the end of the radio was calm and collected. Easy enough given he was miles away from the action.

"He better Make it snappy, because if these guy's mean business I don't know how long we'll last." The pilot pitched the nose down and entered a dive.

Near Laceenian Airspace

The two Pandoras, call signs Vampire Four and Vampire Eight, were approaching the Laceenian Nimrod at just under Mach 1. At their current speed they'd be in visual range of the Nimrod in just 80 seconds or so, they were already getting close to weapons range, not that they planned to fire.

The lead pilot activated his mic and addressed his wingman. "Vampire Four, Vampire Eight - What'd you say we have a little run with these guys?"

Eight replied, "Vampire Eight, Vampire Four - Roger that, I'll take the right."

With that the two fighters moved apart and continued closing in, their current course would bracket the Nimrod with one fighter passing within 200 yeards of each of her wingtips. It was going to get bumpy, but there'd be no serious damage.

Internation Airspace
"They're closing fast. Five thousand yards. Two thousand. Holy crap, they're right on top of us!"

The pilot watched as the Tolvanic jets rushed passed on either side of his cockpit. "They're playing with us, dammit. Papa One Two to friendly stations, I need an ETA on those Tornado's, we've just been buzzed."

"Papa One Two, Tornado's will be with you in three minutes. What is your current situation?"

"Two jets of unknown origin have just passed by on either side of me, they didn't establish a lock, but they're definitely carrying weapons."

"Roger that, standby for further orders."

The radio went silent, but the Nimrod crew knew what might be coming next.

LAF Denton
The control room had become a hive of activity, controllers were directing at least six Tornado's to the Nimrod's position whilst others were monitoring the Tolvanic aircraft of radar.

"This is Laceenia Air Command to unidentified aircraft, identify yourself and state your intentions."

OOC:
Much Better Posts, All Of You.
I love it when you go away for a day and come back and there's multiple pages of decent content to be read.

Quick Naval Fact: Bolter - Plane that does not hook onto an arresting wire upon landing, and has to try again.

IC:
NSS Hearken

The Night Sky was clam and clear as could be on an almost moonless night. The sea sparkled endlessly into the horizon, an innumerable number of diamond-like flickers appearing out as far as the eye could see. The seas had been fairly calm so far, a relief to any carrier operations, but in-particularly to night operations. It was very hard to cause a 475,000 tonne carrier to list from port to starboard, and even harder from bow to stern, but it could still be done. All the pilots and the Air Boss thanked the shining stars for their timely good luck as night operations heated up.

With the first patrol returning and the second launching, the carrier deck was in a frenzy of activity. So far they'd had only three bolters - pretty good for eighteen squadrons of fully-loaded planes.

Inside the tower, there was a flurry of activity. Lights were buzzing, switches were thrown and buttons were pushed as radios flared. Landing eighteen squadrons of aircraft successfully, even with minimal bolters to account for, while simultaneously trying to launch another eighteen squadrons while switching-out pilots in the used planes that needed post and pre-flight checkups...was no easy task to organize and track.

"And eighteen is all in, sir," the Air Boss said cheerfully, having landed all his aircraft on the first patrol with no major incident. The deck screeched and roared behind him as he swiveled his chair around, facing Rieding as the last plane was snatched from the air, coming to an abrupt halt on the deck as a new squadron of aircraft were flung into the night-sky in quick succession immediately afterward.

"Excellent," Rieding replied, making a quick grunt of affirmation as his radio officer flagged him down. "What is it son?" he said as he moved over to him, leaning over to place his head near to the young comm officer.

"Captain, we have a message from the Koharian fleet." Rieding nodded, motioning for him to continue aloud. "Well sir," he said reluctantly, "they've apparently suffered a major engine failure in one of their craft. A landing craft, actually," he said as his eyes quickly scanned the transcript again.

Well, at least it isn't nuclear then, Rieding thought to himself with relief. "Can they make repairs themselves?"

"They didn't say sir."

Dammit, Rieding thought. "Well, we're in international waters, and that sounds like a distress signal," he said rubbing his beard, contemplating what exactly to do. After what seemed like an eternity, he finally turned and looked at the beaming statue that was the Hearken's Air Boss and asked, "Can we fly a chopper out to them with repair crews?"

The Air Boss swiveled around, checked his maps, then looked up at the ceiling of the bridge, paused in thought. "I think," he began slowly as he tapped the edge of his mouth, carefully wording his phrases, "That we could, if we use a (UE) EA-24C, and have it go naked with topped-off tanks, yeah, it'll get there. One way ticket though unless they can refuel it."

"I would imagine that they'd have JP-4 if they have a Hercules on-board their aircraft carrier," Rieding stated.

"Good Point Captain," the Air Boss replied, swiveling back to the mic and getting a mechanical crew and helo crew woken-up at nearly three in the morning.

Stockmoor International Airport

Majior laughed and smiled politely at the joke. He'd heard it before, but was always genuinely mused by it. Grenge just stared at Leo unemotionally. Apparently, it was not so funny to him. Either that, or he just didn't like joking around in this atmosphere. Probably the latter, Majior mused as he entered the car.

"Yes, we can go strait the the building. Whatever works for you. We are in your hands," Grenge said in a very business-like manner.

"Now," began Majior as he watched the scenery slide by smoothly out the window, "What is the itinerary of topics you'd like to discuss? Also, we have been pressed to find-out what your nuclear capability is, what your exact intent is, and if you are open to investigation of the blast area. All information revealed to us by our investigation would be secreted from all but your government unless you say otherwise, naturally," he finished looking at Leo with a warm, statesmanlike smile on his face. "Oh!" he interjected, "Also, we'd like to, your government permitting, establish a diplomatic office here in your nation, and vice-versa. For continued diplomatic efforts, of course," he concluded with a streak of excitement under his face. Majior always loved the thrill of the interaction with the international community, and was always a very aggressive negotiator.

Near Laceenian Airspace

The Pandoras executed lazy turns once they'd overshot the Nimrod turning to bring themselves back in behind the unwieldy patrol plane.

The pilot of Vampire Four, Lt. Michael "Switchblade" Keegan, spoke to his WSO (Weapon System Officer) via the plane's internal comm. "What do you say we put the Fear of God in these blokes? Fire up the APG-127, but don't activate a lock."

"Roger that." With that Vampire Four's WSO, Lt. (j.g.) Kyle "Werewolf" Martin, fired up the big AESA set in the Pandora's nose, unleashing waves of powerful radio waves.

Keegan chuckled, "I bet their ESM sets are lighting up like a Christmas tree."

Just as Keegan was enjoying the humour of the situation his radio crackled.

"This is Laceenia Air Command to unidentified aircraft, identify yourself and state your intentions."

Keegan thumbed his mic to reply. "LAC, Vampire Four - I am a Tolvanic Naval fighter on patrol in international waters. My intentions are of no concern of yours. Over." Once the transmission terminated he muttered to Martin, "Looks like these wankers don't appreciate our brand of humour."

OOC: Link (http://www.forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=13478529) to the F-194As I'm using.

Stockmoor International Airport
"Then I'd suggest we go direct to the government building." Leo settled in to his seat, "Firstly, I feel it would be in all our interest to clear up this nuclear 'crisis'. From there, we'll play it by ear." Leo smiled wryly as the car pulled off.

"As for establishing diplomatic relations, I'm sure that will be acceptable. After all, you can never have too many ties within the international community." His choice of words was telling. Ties, not friends. In his mind, he knew diplomacy was mostly about finding out secrets, interrupted by the occasional shouting match.

Nearing Laceenian Airspace
The tension aboard the Nimrod was steadily increasing. The Pandoras had circled around and were back on their tail again. Expecting another fly past, the sudden warning lights took the operator by surprise, "We've got a radar alert! No lock, but they are definitely up to something."

"Papa One Two, this is LAF Denton. The aircraft have been identified as belonging to the Tolvanic Navy. They are apparently on patrol in your area but are refusing to confirm intent. Go to weapons tight, await bandit confirmation."

"Fuck, this is going downhill. I hope those Tornado's get here soon. If shooting does start, I don't want to be alone out here." With that comment, the Nimrod cut throttle back to as low as the pilot dared. Hopefully they could go slower than the interceptors.

V.E Naval Base; Cat Phu

Commissioner Thanh was speaking to Adm. Le on the phone while smoking on his pipe

"I understand sir...VAdm Sam Dinh will be in charge of the fleet. Any other request, sir?" said Thanh while he is refilling his smoke pipe with tobacco and lit it again.

"Yes, get the sailors on board and send them out at 0100 hours and besides 3 F-35s get 8 of them." said Le

Thanh suddenly coughed roughly and spits out the tobacco that got into his throat.

"Are you okey Thanh?" said Le, when hearing the rough cough

"Yes Admiral, just got something in my throat." said Thanh to reassure to Le that’s everything is alright.

"Alrighty then...Get the men prepared. Bye" Admiral Le then hangs up the phone and watches

Thanh hangs up the phone and picked it up and dialed to Vice Admiral Sam Dinh

"This is VAdm Dinh."

"Sam, its Thanh, you being assigned, get to Cat Phu before 0100 hours." said Thanh and hangs up

-----------------------------------------
V.E. Naval Base; Cat Phu; 0000 hours

Vice Admiral Sam Dinh walks in the Commissioner Thanh's Office and put down his uniform hat and his bag of clothing.

Thanh heard the footsteps, looked up, saw Sam Dinh, and yawned

"Ahh VAdm Dinh. Here is the assignment; you will be ordering 12 Navy Ships to the International Waters at Larceenia. This will be a patrol mission until further notice. There are some other fleet that belongs to other nations that heard the incident...Do..not..attack them. If you do, you will lose your star and downgrade to Captain." said Thanh, while trying to get his pipe to smoke

"What ship am I assign on?" said Sam, while looking at the window where sailors are preparing 12 ships.

"You will be assigned to VEN Phelan(Carrier). I need to sleep, leave me be and good luck." said Thanh

VAdm Dinh picked up his stuff and walk outside to his assigned ship.
Winds are calm, the waves of the ocean are calm, the voices of the sailors are loud and annoying, and the crates of supplies are up to every ship. He boarded the ship and finds his room to get some sleep.

Suddenly, an erupting sound with vibrations. voices from the Bridge.

"Steady....Ahead full speed!!" said the captain

Sam went back to sleep...

The fleet was on its way to Larceenia, Communicators are trying to reach the fleets that are near Larceenia.

“This is the Vietnam Empire Navy Fleet, is there anyone out there, we mean no harm.”

ooc: Sorry so late just got back from drill.

The FAS Dawn
CIC

The XO rushed headlong into the CIC, "Cap'n we gotta transmission from a V.E. Ship over the airwaves. They say they mean no harm"

"All hands remain on alert. Open communications with them request a meeting with their commander. I need some info." Krieg commanded instantly. Krieg thought to himself. "Come on Azrael."

The Heartless
Nearing LAF Denton
Azrael spoke into the Comm Unit, "This is Underminister Azrael of Fort Ash, I have been sent here by Emperor Farrow, on diplomatic relations. Request landing location and clearance." Azrael hoped that everything would go smoothly, but being on a heavily armed helicopter looks bad. "Gotta keep it together." Azrael spoke to himself.

Fortress Redlawn, Imperial City, Fort Ash
Central Chamber

Emperor Farrow looked at the reports on his desk, the medical bills for the CAD War veterans were pilling up and the hospitals were filling up, the war that was long over was having its after effects. The treasury was quickly on the decline, and the Fortress Guards were having a hard time with the protesters. "Thats what I get for trying to keep this in the dark."

An orderly ran in with a huff, "Emperor the guard captain requests more men from the reserve!"

"Do it. I want the leaders of this protest dealt with discreetly." sneered Farrow

The Orderly stood with eyes wide

"Do not make me say it again." Farrow said with his back turned and palming his ceremonial sword.

Laceenia, coastal waters

Many fighter jets had been overheard before the Martens crossed into Laceenias territorial waters, a first they thought planewrecks would be dropping into the ocean but now it mostly seemed like a cat and mouse game.

No one seemed to have spotted them, they had much bigger things on their hands than a lone civilian boat.
It was still a couple of hours till dawn.

"Are we on target?" Asked Marten 2.

"We will reach the cliff within the hour. If you take a peek thorugh the scope you can see it from here." Answerd Marten 1.

A lone black rock cliff in the middle of the ocean. This is were they would ancor the boat and use a raft to get ashore. The clock was ticking, they needed to get to the coastline before, dawn but during the skirmish between the fighters they had to drop their speed otherwise the sound or motion might have been picked up.
They were both uneasy, this was not at all going within neither plan or protocol. They were late, they were unarmed and for all they knew they could be infiltrating a warzone as they had no up to date information.

All they could hope for now was that the Laceenian military was too busy with other affairs and keeping both eyes on the sky instead of the shoreline.

Near Laceenian Airspace

The Pandoras were not totally surprised when the Nimrod slowed, after all it was logical given that her stall speed was considerably lower than that of the two fighters. The Padoras slowed their own airspeed as low as they dared, but they were still outpacing the Nimrod by a good 20 knots. Almost on cue the two fighters began executed several large, lazy circles designed to allow them to keep one of their noses pointed towards the Nimrod at all times, while not stalling out. Keegan had already fired a couple dozen AMRAAMs in his head and he knew the Laccenians knew just how vulnerable they were.

E-2F Hawkeye
Call Sign "Dead Eye"
Angels 25, 500 Nautical Miles from Laceenian Waters

The AWACs had detected the Laceenian Tornadoes shortly after take off and was tracking them as they rushed to confront Vampire Flight. The Controller in Charge (CiC) radioed Vampire Four to inform of the new developments.

"Vampire Four, Dead Eye - Be advised we hold six bandits inbound to your location, Echo Tango Alfa is one minute. Repeat, we hold six bandits inbound to your location, Echo Tango Alfa is one minute. Over."

100 Nautical Miles to Larceenia’s Terrorital Waters
VEN Phelan

VAdm. Sam Dinh wakes up, stretches, and walks to the bridge. Looking at the flight deck, 3 F-35s are being prepared for take-off.

“What’s the status report Captain” said Sam

“We are about 100 Nautical miles to Larceenia’s waters. We are sending 3 planes to scout ahead. You slept quite a long time Vice Admiral, I doubt your hungry, and the mess hall is on Deck 3 Section 34.” said Captain Tong Nguyen

“Captain, we are receiving radio communications from another fleet. They would like to speak to the one in charge, sir.” said Communicator Johnston. Moments later, Sam picks up the radio phone and speaks.

“This is Vice Admiral Sam Dinh of the V.E. Naval Fleet. Who am I speaking to?” said Sam while looking ahead of the ocean sea, squinted and saw some sort of land ahead.

“Hey, Captain, is that Larceenia over there at the distance.” Said Sam

The Captain picked up his binoculars and view over the land that Sam is pointing at.

“Probably it is, we can’t know if it’s Larceenia till we get a little closer. Better yet, I’m going to send out the fighters.” said Captain Nguyen. He turns on the intercom to the Pilot deck and told them to get into flight gear.

“Pilot Mark Tang; Mycael Hunter; DJ Sevilla get into flight gear and get into your planes” The intercom went off

15 Minutes later………….

3 F-35s take-off and is inbound to the Larceenia’s waters for a brief patrol, then some talks over the radio.

“Hey Mark, you’re an a** and stop trying to get close to me, you damn know that’s hazardous.” said Hunter, till got interrupted by the VEN Phelan Control Tower.

“This is control tower; please remember to use code names.”

Hunter replied to the tower “Sorry Control, Dark Masks out”

Mark replied to Hunter "hahahahahha, Dark Mask One got into trouble. Mark turns to look at Hunter's canopy and saw Hunter was looking at him, then Mark sticks out his tongue."

"I feel very tempted to shoot you down Mar...Dark Mask Three" said Hunter, who getting annoyed and temptation to fire his guided missiles.

CTS Lark

The AWACs had detected the Vietnamese task force as it neared Laceenian waters. They appeared to be flying only a three plane CAP at the moment. Leaving a thin CAP up this close to potentially hostile waters would have gotten a Tolvanic commander court martialed for complete incompetence, but not all nations had the same tradition of naval prowess as the Commonwealth. The commander of Force L, Rear Admiral Adam Wu, decided to shake up the Vietnamese just like they were pressuring the Laceenians.

A few minutes later a flight of three A-206C (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13814016&postcount=557) "Osiris" strike aircraft escorted by three F-194As took off from the Lark and headed towards the approaching Vietnamese task force, at 800 knots they'd arrive in just over ten minutes.

International Airspace
The first two of the Tornado's neared the three sparring aircraft and attempted to end the fun and games, "Tolvanic aircraft, this is Laceenian Air Force Wasp Nine. Turn heading one-zero-five and distance yourself from the LAF Nirmod you are currently harassing. Failure to comply will not be tolerated."

All the while, the Nimrod was making it's slow progress towards Laceenian airspace, but was still a fair few minutes from safety. Deciding to make a break for it, the pilot pushed the throttles back up to full and restarted the two engines he'd shut down earlier. Within seconds all engines were spinning again, and the Nimrod pushed its way towards five-hundred knots.

Stockmoor International Airport

"As you wish, Leo," Majior said politely as he re-adjusted his cuff-links in the car, waiting for the government building to appear.

OOC: So...Since Koharia's taking a two-week vacation and I don't like RolePlaying with myself, I'll just say the repairs were made and he's en route to join my naval force...

NSS Hearken, International Waters

Night Operations had progressed smoothly throughout the twilight hours, the moon and stars ever-vigilant to make the carrier-group known among the waves. Well, that and Active Radar pings that anyone with passive sensors could triangulate within 150 nautical miles of the center of the task force, but that seems far less poetic.

The night patrols had gone-off without a hitch so far. The coast was clear, not a soul in sight. Apparently anyone intelligent enough to own a plane or ship was also intelligent enough to keep it grounded or docked while international military vessels swarmed over the seas. All except one. Two men - or rather - two Martens, were quickly slipping into the formation. So far their tiny ship - hardly a ship - had snuck in undetected amidst the flurry of activity, but their luck was about to run-out.

The bridge was in its usual gusto of activity, and the night-crew had finally taken-over now that the Captain was certain no unusual events would permeate the evening. The third patrol had just gone up when the XO, a young, well-cut and all-too formal man was called-upon by his comms officer to make the call.

"Sir," the officer said, flagging him down with one hand while adjusting knobs with the other.

"Yes Comms?" the XO responded quickly, while marching over in an overtly military manner. He leaned-down by the comms officer, who was actually older than he was, and with his hands placed upon the small of his back he said, "Yes sailor?"

"Sir," the bushy-mustache-wielding comms officer responded, "The Alister has picked-up a small, unidentified contact on its radar, ten clicks from it bearing 91 degrees."

"What?" the XO said authoritatively. "Why wasn't I informed of it earlier?"

"I just got the call now sir, and apparently they just picked it up and confirmed it. I don't know how it got so close, but it did."

"Do we know anything else?" he responded, his eyes moving around inside the room, carefully weighing the risks and options.

"No sir, only that it is moving at a steady speed of around fifteen knots, and is very hard to keep a tack on."

"Well hail it, scramble some choppers for boarding, and get some aircraft over there to visually identify it. And don't leave it unattended.

"Roger that sir," comms said as he got on his radio.

Patrol Three, Squadron Twelve, International Waters

The night had been calm, the skies clear and the winds soft as Squadron Twelve's last pilot topped-off his tanks. The F/A-31 that flew above them then banked left and turned back toward the carrier, now out of fuel to give to the ever-hungry Audrey II of the skies, creating neat white lines in the sky over its wingtips as it did.

It was then that the message came:

"WarDog Squad, this is the Hearken, do you read, over?" the bush-mustached comms officer said over radio.

"Yeah, we read you loud and clear," Wardog One said over the radio, boredom plainly discernible in his voice; no one had done anything interesting since they left Gahrodanthi-held seas, and it was beginning to show.

"We have an unidentified vessel, bearing one-eight-seven of your current heading, distance forty nautical miles. We need to confirm and track on visual soonest. We are attempting to hail now, and need you to cover a boarding team, over."

"Err, Roger that Hearken, moving to intercept now, ETA eighty seconds, over," WarDog One said as he fired-up his engines, sat-up in his seat with renewed vigor and swooped-down, nearly turning all the way around as he did so. His three wing men followed his every move perfectly; they were all awake now."

Message To Unidentified Vessel

You have strayed far too close to our fleet during a live military incident in International Waters. We shall now board your vessel and determine your intent.

We ask for your cooperation,

NSS Hearken, Second Nabaali Fleet Flagship

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l151/UEF-Hokie/oseatoseal.jpg
FROM: The Federation of Oseato, Ministry of Foreign Relations
TO: Laceenia
ENCRYPTION LEVEL: 5, TOP

The Federation of Oseato would like to intervene on behalf of Laceenia. It has come to our attention that several nations have been harassing your nation following the detonation of a nuclear weapon inside your own borders. We would be willing to deploy our 1st Fleet to your shores in order to secure your borders from these intruders. We would also be willing to commit a number of ground forces should the conflict come to that.

We await your response.

Sincerely,
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l151/UEF-Hokie/gatesig.jpg
General C. Allen Gates, Foreign Minister.

"Wasp Nine, Vampire Four - We are patrolling in international airspace, your Nimrod merely happens to share our patrol route. You will not dictate our operations to us, we will escort your patrol plane back to Laceenian airspace and then continue our operations. "

The Heartless
"slow down pilot" breathed Azrael. The lack of an answer from the airbase worried Azrael.

"Sir, we got thirty minutes until I am required to turn around, or we won't make it back."

Azrael pondered the effects of returning without completing his task. "You know we should have maybe officially told them we were coming." Azrael said in frustration. Azrael did notice that Emperor Farrow hadn't been the same since the War. "He has lost his knowledge or caring of S.O.P., Thirtry minutes we will return to the Dawn. Radio the Dawn of our situation"

"Roger that Underminister" said the pilot.


The FAS Dawn
CIC

"Sir, we have a transmission from the Heartless, unless they get clearance in thirty they will return to the Dawn."

"What the...ok begin preparations for their return. Patch me through to the Emperor. I will take this in the Command Room."

"Yes, Cap'n"

The orderly locked the Command Room door and Krieg picked up the reciever. There was a couple of clicks and pops.

"Code..." said the cold voice on the end.

"Tango, Charley, Echo, Two, Niner, Bravo."

"Enter in clearance code"

Krieg pulled out his dogtags, and punched in the raised numbers.

"Capt. Krieg, please standby..." Another click.

"Krieg it has been a long time, What news have you for me." said Farrow.

"Sir..."

Fortress Redlawn, Imperial City, Fort Ash
Central Chamber

"What did you say?!" said Farrow.

"Sir, with all due respect, we never told them officially we were coming."

"Krieg we have been friends for along time, but don't ever question me or my actions."

"Yes...my lord" Krieg realized in that instance that Farrow had really changed. "Emperor if Azrael returns without completing the mission, What are our new orders?"

"Deploy the Falcon unit to full status to monitor the situation untill the Dragons arrive. In the case that it happens I hereby promote you to Fleet Admiral of the new Falcons and Dragons. Your orders will arrive shortly."

Clicks and pops.

The FAS Dawn
Command Room
Krieg hung up. "Fleet Admiral, huh. Hopefully I am alive to enjoy it much longer." he smirked to the orderly. The orderly coughed. Krieg picked up the reciever, "All hands to ready stations."

The Command Room turned blue.

Shore of Laceenia

The landing went off without a hitch but with those fighters buzzing overhead no wonder anyone couldn't see or hear the small raft gliding up near the shore. The motorboat was safely ancored to the cliffs just a few miles out, you could see the cliffs along with a reef but if you didn't know what to look for you would never find the boat.

The Marten team quickly un-loaded their backpacks and let the air out of the raft. They were on unkown grounds now, they had neither intelligence or figures on the Laceenian militarys dispositions. The raft was quickly rolled up and buried under a tree.
They did not stand on a beach, they cose to land on a shoreline directly connected to a forest.
Marten 1 took out a GPS-device and a map, both found in the motorboat, seems as HQ had been planning this for some time atleast. The position was logged in, now they knew were they would find their raft.

"See anything?" Whisperd Marten 1 as he put away the GPS and the map.
Marten 2 was scoping out the area ahead with the binoculars.
"Nothing, the woodland is not that thick but... it's still dawn, the light have not settled here yet so parts of the area are still too dark."
He put the binoculars back in his backpack and started to pick up moss, grass, leaves and such and used some string to attach it to his body and cap.
Marten 2 did likewise, they agreed on the raft that in order to keep time they had to move by daylight and make it with very litte sleep and food, otherwise they would never make the deadline. They were both aware of the risks but in this situation the military was bound to be on full alert so they had to work outside protocol.

International Airspace
The lead group of three Tornado's was now almost on top of the Nimrod and Tolvanic fighters.

"Vampire Four, Wasp Nine. Increase your altitude to two-thousand and make your heading one-zero-five. Regardless of if you're on patrol or intercept missions, separation is required during peace-time operations. Comply " The Laceenian pilots were going to play it by the book, at least for the moment.


Approaching Laceenian Air Space
Two LAF Tornados approached the Fort Ash aircraft. One positioned itself of the left hand side of the Commanche's nose, about one-hundred yards ahead and rocked its wings; the international sign for 'You have been intercepted. At the same time, the second maintained a position behind the group and attempted to make radio contact.

"This is LAF Wasp Sixteen, you are about to enter Laceenia Air Space. Do not be alarmed, this is standard procedure. Over."


Response to the Federation of Oseato
Whilst we hope that the use of your vessels in a combat situation is avoided, we feel that a large international presence in defence of our nation could be just the deterrent against offensive operations by other nations. Therefore we gratefully accept the offer and your First Fleet may deploy to our waters.

Yours,
Isaac Charlton
Foreign Secretary


Central Stockmoor
The two diplomatic vehicles eased to a stop outside one of several building in this area owned by the Laceenian Government.

"Well, gentlemen, this is the Foreign Office." He glanced at his watch, "The Secretary of State for Defence should already be here, as will the Foreign Secretary. If you would follow me?" Leo stepped out of the car. In the few second it had taken him to utter those words his door had already been opened by his driver. "Hopefully, inside the walls of this building, you'll find the answers to the questions on your mind."

Approaching Laceenian Air Space

"Wasp Nine, Vampire Four - Seperation might be required by your regs, but I am under no such restrictions, nor will I comply with with such orders. Over."

After thumbing off the mic Keegan switched channels and raised Dead Eye, "Dead Eye, Vampire Four - We got eyes on our company, we'll be letting our guest go in two minutes or so. Recommend you contact the Bird Farm and tell to step up CAP ops in case the locals try for some payback. Over."

Approaching Laceenian Waters

Admiral Jake Toland stood on the bridge looking out on the flight deck of the ONS Wilhelm Von Seelow, a CVN 21 Class supercarrier and flagship of the Oseaton First Fleet. Her sister ship, the ONS Thomas Winston, sailed opposite of her along with the modernized Iowa Class battleship, ONS John Ward, not to mention several other escort vessels. The vessels plowed through the water, creating beautiful wakes in the dimming light.

"Get a CAP of F-35's up, tell the Oseato City to energize her SPY1 radars so we don't get caught with our pants down. Make sure everyone gets the message that we're not to be messed with and if those other fleets get frisky we won't hesitate to defend ourselves." Toland ordered as he made his way down to the Combat Information Center to keep an eye on the situation.

Oseato was ready to aid Laceenia with whatever was to come.

Off Laceenian Waters

The AWACS attached to Force L had detected the inbound Oseaton task force and relayed this information to the flagship. The message was then passed up the line to the Combined Staff and the Prime Minster's Office.

Cabinet Room
Blair House
Brayton, Tolvan

"As you can see here gentlemen another naval force has arrived in the waters off Laceenia, this brings the total to three seperate forces, with at least four countries represented. The latest arrivals have been identified as the Oseaton Federation and their seems to be built around three capital ships, likely carriers or battleships."

The mention of the word "battleship" brought a snort of derision from Admiral Kincaid, the Chief of Naval Operations, a firm critic of such vessels."

"In addition we are tracking a number of smaller escorts. It doesn't appear that they brough any marines or other ground toops with them."

Commerce Minister Burke spoke up next. "Admiral Kincaid, is such a force a serious threat to our forces in the area?"

Kincaid made a show of checking the stack of papers in front of him before speaking. "Numerically out forces are fairly even, of course if the have two or three carriers than the Lark's air wing will be heavily outnumbered, the Bennick, the fleet's big deck amphibous assault ship, is only carrying eight F-35Bs, the rest of her air wing is helos.Now based on what little we know about the Oseaton military, we should have the edge in quality of equipment, but we can't know for sure without getting a closer look."

Prime Minister Hutchins spoke next. "What about sending a recon flight over to snoop about?"

Admiral Kincaid didn't hesitate to reply. "We are currently engaged in operations to test the Laceenian defensive response times. As a result I am not confident we could defend out forces against the combined Oseaton and Laceenian forces should it come to that. To be frank sir I recommend deploying additional forces to the region."

Foreign Minister Donovan nearly choked at this statement. "Are you mad Admiral? The Laceenians are already paranoid and there are warships from at least four other nations parked in those waters, do you really think further escalation is wise?"

Kincaid, who was not particularly fond of Donovan anyway, fired back. "We're not escalating anything, we're demonstrating that we will not be intimidated out of the area."

Donovan prepared to respond again but was cut off by a wave from Hutchins. "I agree with the Admiral in this matter. What size force do you reccomend and how soon can it be deployed?"

Kincaid didn't need papers to answer this question. "Sir, I want to deploy Carrier Battle Group Eleven and Surface Action Group Lima to the area. That will boost our force level to forty-seven ships. CBG 11 can be on station in just over 96 hours and SAG Lima can be there in about 70 hours."

Hutchins thought for moment before giving his orders. "Very well, deploy the ships Admiral, but impress upon them the delicate nature of the situation and that they will adhere to the Rules of Engegement at all times."

ONS Wilhelm Von Seelow, Oseaton First Fleet, Laceenian Territorial Waters.

"What have we got Bill?" Questioned Toland as his intel officer got off the com link with the Oseato City, one of the two Ticonderoga Class Aegis cruisers, accompanying the fleet.

"Well sir, there are several fleets out there, the one we can most readily identify is a Tolvan fleet somewhere to the south. They appear to have one carrier and atleast one assault ship. That means would could potentially outnumber them in the air, though we'll need more detailed information to get that confirmed. Uh, they also detected an AWACS craft up near the fleet. This means that they probably have detected us by this point. No word on their aircraft compliment, but so far we've gotten reports of F-35's." Briefed Bill. He quickly moved off to continue his collection of intel and hoped to shed more light on the situation.

Toland digested the information for a moment and then began issuing orders. "Tell the CAG to get another squadron of F-35's up. Arm them for anti-air, have another one on the deck ready to go. Tell the Winston to have another squadron ready of the deck for anti-ship warfare at all times. Prepare a few A-6's for tanker duty. Oh, and send up a Prowler, maybe we can get a read on some of their signals. I'm sure the High Command will love that."

Oseaton Naval force turned into the wind and began to launch more fighters to establish a CAP over the fleet.

OOC: ORBAT for the 1st Fleet.

2 CNV 21 Class Carriers - Wilhelm Von Seelow (Flagship), Thomas Winston
1 Modernized Iowa Class Battleship - John Ward
3 Wasp Class Assault Ships
1 Whidbey Island/ Harpers Ferry Class Assualt Ships
2 2 Ticonderoga Class Cruisers- Oseato City, Port Roanoke
8 Burke Class Destroyers
7 Perry Class Frigates
3 Al Riyadh Class Frigates
2 Virginia Class SSNs
2 Littoral Combat Ships
2 K130 Braunschweig Class Corvettes
2 Avenger Class Minesweepers
4 Supply Class AOE Auxiliaries

OOC:
Force L Current ORBAT:
1x Type 73 fleet carrier (80 aircraft)
1x Type 114 Landing Ship, Dock (42 aircraft and two LCACs)
2x Type 116 Landing Ship, Platform (two assault helos and two LCACs per)
1x Type 52 cruiser
2x Type 32 air defence destroyers
6x Type 38 general purpose destroyers
3x Type 46 nuclear powered destroyers
7x Type 62 ASW frigates
2x Type 81 fast support ships
2x Type 94 attack submarines
21st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU)

Forces En Route:
1x Type 73 fleet carrier (80 aircraft)
2x Type 52 cruisers
1x Type 32 air defence destroyer
5x Type 38 general purpose destroyers
2x Type 46 nuclear powered destroyers
4x Type 62 ASW frigates
1x Type 81 fast support ships
2x Type 94 attack submarines

International Airspace
"Air Control, Wasp Nine. The Tolvanic aircraft are refusing to perform separation. Requesting orders. Over"

"Wasp Nine, Air Control, Roger that, escort Papa One Two back to Laceenian airspace. Over"

"Wasp Nine copies. Out."

Two of the Tornado's moved to position themselves behind the Tolvanic aircraft, whilst the third took up a position just to the rear of the Nimrod.


MoD Building, Stockmoor
Josh Dixon had been informed of the developing situation as soon as it began to escalate over the past few minutes. He knew that whilst neither the Tolvanic aircraft nor his Tornado's were technically in the wrong, the F-194A were definitely being provocative in their actions. He frowned and picked up his desk phone.

"If the Tolvan's want to play hardball, lets play hardball back." He pressed the internal line and waited for an answer, "Get me LAF Pondhurst on the line, I've got a special mission for them."


LAF Pondhurst
A pair of Nimrod's taxied to the runway. Fully loaded with a selection of anti-shipping armament, they were to harass the Tovanic fleet.

"Papa Zero Seven, Pondhurst Control. You are cleared for takeoff, good luck out there."

The Nimrods roared off the runway and cruised towards the Tolvanic fleet.

The Heartless
Laceenian Airspace
"This is the Heartless, understood, Wasp Sixteen. All weapons are disengaged, over." said the pilot. "Be advised our fighter escorts are backing off, awaiting instructions."

"When we land send word to the Dawn, of our arrival." said Azrael as he eased back into his seat. "Whose Idea was it to send me in an armed Commanche? Not very diplomatic."


The FAS Dawn
Flight Deck

"Fleet Admiral..." thought Krieg. "Of what fleet?"

The orderly walked up and saluted, "Coffees done, sir. The Falcon Officers are waiting for you in the Ready Room."

"Thank you, Simmons I will be there in a second."

Approaching Laceenian Air Space

Keegan watched as the Laceenian Tornadoes settled into escort positions. Keegan thumbed the internal comm, "Well Kyle, I think carried out our orders pretty well wouldn't you say?"

Martin gave a small chuckle at this, "I concur with that assesment sir."

Keegan smiled at Martin's reply before thumbing the mic and raising Vampire Eight. "Vampire Eight, Vampire Four -I think we've rattled these fellows enough for today, break off and RTB (Return to Base"

Vampire Eight nodded as his lead before replying, "Roger Four."

With that the two fighters sped up and broke the impromtu formation before turning to head back to the carrier. As the Pandoras disengaged Keegan thumbed his mic one last time, "Wasp Nine, Vampire Four - We have other business to attend to at the moment so we'll be ending our escort a bit earlier than planned. You guys have a nice day and try not to get lost going home."

Approaching the Vietnam Empire Task Force

The approaching planes received the recall order when they were just over ten minutes away from the VE ships. The task force commander had decided that with tensions with Laceenia rising to bring the planes home for the time being.

Forest, Laceenian Costal Region

The day was bright, the sun was up, animalsounds could be heard all over the forest, a slight breeze carried the smell of moisture and wet leaves in the air.

The Marten team, compleatly clad in various kinds of moss, twigs, leaves and tufts of grass walked silently through the vegetation. They had been walking for hours and were now serching for a secure place were they could rest, eat and tend to their feet and hygine.

A branch snapped, none of the Martens were responsible, they laid themselves down, something or someone was coming.

Above International Waters
50 Nautical Miles to Larceenia’s Waters

The Dark Masks squadrons (DM) are patrolling nearby Narceenia’s waters for Intel reconnaissance. High turbulences causing the F-35s to sway, then DM lowered their altitude, under the clouds.

“Fleet at 1o’clock, off the distance, seems to be another Task Force some sort. Jesus…it’s a Fleet” Said DM-Two looking through his binoculars and saw a whole butt load of ships

“DM-One, I am getting radio transmission from another fleet, must be them down there. They saying not to mess with them and that they are Oseato. I’m assuming they are allied with Larcennia.” Said DM-Three

“Great, we need to inform our commander about this issue. I am going to contact them” said DM-One

DM-One opens radio frequency to the Phelan and told what is going on.

“This is DM-One, DM-One, to Black Seagull.”
“This is Black Seagull, what’s your status DM-One”
“Found another fleet, assuming to be allied to Larceenia, 100 Miles from your location.”
“Got it DM-One, return to Carrier for briefing.”
“Copy that, DM Out”

“DM-Two and Three, return to Carrier for briefing” said DM-One

The DMs turned their F-35s to their fleet.

VEN Phelan

Vice-Admiral was playing golf at the flight deck to attempt to golf at VEN Sach-Ly (Destroyer), with 30 attempts, 3 made it. Captain Tong Nguyen interrupted him by the loudspeaker.

“VAdm Dinh we have an Intel from the DMs. We need you up in the bridge.” Said the Captain

Sam walked out the flight deck and up to the bridge tired out from golfing.

“What’s the Intel?” said Sam

“Another fleet just 100 miles away from our location, they said that the Fleet must not be messed with…guess who…Oseato.” Said Captain Tong acting nervous about them and said additional info to VAdm Sam “…They are a fleet, not a task force.”

“Great…I assuming that they must have like 20 ships with them?” said Sam with high curiosity

Captain Tong replied back with an advice “More that that sir, my advice is to either allied with another Nations fleet that are against Larceenia’s nuclear action….or....calling up additional ships.”

“I am going with the first choice….Contact them, whoever is out there.” Said Sam

The Radio Communicator contacts any fleet nearby, which he already did before.

“Great, I already did this, but no one contacted yet. However, I only receive short transmission from FAS Dawn, but no response back…..ahhh how I hate the Navy…” said the radio communicator

The FAS Dawn
Ready Room

Krieg walked into the room and the officers snapped to attention. "At Ease, Gentlemen, Take your seats" said Krieg wearily. "In a few hours the Dragons will arrive with the Fleet Admiral's Flag, Rank Insignia, and Sword. I will be leaving this ship and taking my post on the FAS Cannon Hill. I had many a moment with this unit and this ship, I wont forget our time."

The officers were silent as they thought about the Capt. leaving the ship to the Cannon Hill, which was a much larger ship unlike this relic from the CAD War. "Sir, does this mean you have a fleet now?" asked a recon officer.

"Yes, matter of fact, you are all in the newly created Leviathan Fleet. The XO Saunders will be your new Capt. The Falcons and the Dragons are as one. I know, I know, Please find a way to let the past go. I don't like them much either."

The officers muttered amongst themselves. No Falcon ever got along with a Dragon. The Dragons were always boasting of their new equipment and ships but had never been close to the real fighting and disaster of the CAD War. While the Dragons had remained relatively untouched, because they stayed on the outskirts of the battle despite the Falcons call for help, the Falcons were hit hard and reduced to an Escort Carrier, and a Wolfgang Sub, luckily they still had their fighters. After that no Falcon ever trusted a Dragon, and because of that no Dragon a Falcon.

"I hope you all realized the effort and teamwork we need to have. Dismissed." The room snapped to attention as Krieg stood up and stepped out of the room followed by his orderly.

Krieg went to his quarters to retire. "Retire, huh. Should have done that two years ago."

The FAS Dawn
Flight Deck
Late CAD War

XO Krieg kneeled holding Capt. Crofton, who was suffering from an extreme loss of blood and the fact that his intestines were hanging out. Shrapnel from the flying shards of metal from the explosion had sliced his abdomen open. With Crofton's remaining strength he removed his insignia, dogtags, and sword. With a shaking, bloody hand he pushed it into Krieg.

"This...is your ship...now" wheezed Crofton as he stopped breathing, and his eyes glassed.

"No, damnit, no!" Krieg yelled as finally two corpsmen came to get him and the now deceased Crofton.

Two Flares flew into the sky as the FAS Dawn and the FAS Neptune retreated as fast as possible away from their waters. Abandoning the fight and the rest of the burning fleet. A bright flash of light and a rumble and the battle had been lost.

Krieg's Eyes flew open, screaming, and he threw up onto the deck. Vomit and tears mixed on the floor as the orderly flew through the door. Krieg quickly dried his eyes.

"Is everything allright, sir!"

"Yeah, I guess I must have ate the wrong stuff today." coughed Krieg

"Of course, Sir" said the orderly as he poured Krieg some water. The orderly knew it was a lie cause he hadn't eaten.

OOC:
Sorry for my lack of posting. Was out of town for the last few days. Also, I'm never drinking again...maybe.

IC:
Central Stockmoor

"I hope so as well," Majior replied calmly as he slicked-back his hair quickly with one hand, following Leo into the building. Captain Grenge and the Guard detail were right behind him as his foot steps neatly pressed against the cold pavement, quite the opposite of the authoritative pounding that Grenge and the Guard walked with.

NSS Hearken, Laceenian Territorial Waters

The entire crew of the fleet gave a quick and silent celebration as they finally passed into Laceenian Territorial Waters. Aboard the Hearken, the pilots of the third patrol were finally getting a long-deserved rest, while the fourth patrol had been canceled, and thus while half the air wing was sleeping, the other half was lounging about, relieved and in high spirits.

"Theater Assessment, Tactical Officer," Captain Rieding said, now very well rested.

"Well sir," began the Chief Tactical Officer of the Hearken, "We have four major fleets operating in the area, and while their combined total power comes close to surpassing ours, it most likely does not," he said, occasionally flipping pages on his clipboard neatly as he cleared his breath and continued. "The known casualties so far have been none. That being said, we have an incident among Tolvanic and Laceenian Aircraft, and what appears to be another possible incident with what appears to be two very well equipped Nimrods who are now leaving a base in Laceenia now sir," he said, flipping over a page with the header Satellite Intelligence Center. "Also, it appears that most of the fleets are re-enforcing. Once this is complete, we would likely suffer great loss if we were to maintain our role as peace-keepers, should conflict actually break-out in this theater once fleet re-enforcements arrive for the accompanying fleets doing so," he finished, letting the clipboard fall to his side as he saluted neatly.

"Very well, dismissed," Rieding said formally, returning the salute. He then turned comms and said, "Comms, draft a transmission: Let the Laceenians know that we've arrived in their waters, and are awaiting a shadowing fleet before we progress further into their territory. Also, let them know that they are most welcome to ask for any assistance or patrols that they wish for," he finished, sitting in his chair, hand placed on the side of his head, supporting it in the classic thinker position as he contemplated to himself.

International Airspace
"Vampire Four, Wasp Nine. Roger that, thanks for your concern, Out" The pilot shook his head and began a wide turn back to Laceenia, the Nimrod and the other Tornado's followed.

"We'll be back at base in no time. Keep your eyes on the radar and make sure our 'friends' don't try and have some more fun with us."


Laceenian Airspace
"Heartless, Wasp Sixteen, copy that. Your fighters can return to duties around your fleet, we'll carry you through from here." The Tornado banked left, gently swinging around towards the mainland.

The two Tornado's were cautious around the gunship. It was a rare occurrence that a diplomat would arrive in a heavily armed helicopter.


En-route to Tolvanic Fleet
"Papa One-Seven, Papa Zero-Seven, keep low and fast, lets give them something to think about."

"Roger that Zero-Seven."

The two Nimrods dipped to two-hundred feet as they cleared the coastline and eased their speeds back to 425kts.


Just Off The Laceenian Coast
The small task force that had been deployed to shadow the fleet from Gahrodanth, which had been idly waiting just outside of it's home port for the last few days, got underway. Consisting of an Invincible Class carrier, a trio of Type 22 frigates, a single Type 42 destroyer, and a single Type 82 destroyer. The submarine element was even lighter. A single Victoria class diesel-electric boat was complemented by a member of the Vanguard class.

The idea that a 'peace-keeping' mission could be a cover for something else had crossed the minds of the naval commanders, but given no evidence this was the case.


Central Stockmoor
Leo paced meaningfully through the corridors of the government building, he was heading for room 254. Synonymous within diplomatic channels with the Room 101 in George Orwell's 1984 for holding some of the most tedious and nightmarish meetings in the nations history.

He knocked once then entered the room. Two faces stared our of the dimly lit room. Leo instantly recognised one as the head of the Ministry of Defence, Josh Dixon. He looked tired, with his features drawn. It was clear the last few days had taken their toll on his sleep. The second face wasn't recognised by the diplomat, but wore full army dress uniform, topped off with the rank-slide of a Lieutenant General.

Leo gestured to a pair of seats on the left of the table whilst he sat down to the unknown officer.

ONS Wilhelm Von Seelow, Laceenian Territorial Waters

"Well Bill, what have you got for me?" questioned Adm. Toland.

Bill, the intel officer, paused before answering. "The Prowlers have been picking up all kinds of signals. They've stayed passive so they haven't been picked up yet. It appears that there are several other fleets in the area, that we already knew. I believe 4 is the magic number on this one. The Tolvan fleet can be classified as 'hostile,' one fleet that appears to be here in a peacekeeping role, thought we aren't certain about their intentions or even who they are. Our old friends the Vietnam Empire also have a fleet in the area. Lastly we have a Fort Ash fleet in the area, not sure of their intentions at the moment either."

Digesting the information, Toland looked at the radar plots. The Oseaton CAP was always above the fleet, any attack on the Oseaton ships would result in tremendous casualties for anyone crazy enough to try it. "Send a message to the ONS Stargaria Bay tell them to shadow the Tolvan fleet as best they can, I think they are the bigger threat at this point. Tell her to stay quiet and run deep, we don't want any misunderstandings here."

The sub began its move toward the Tolvan fleet, but it would be a while before she could begin to penetrate the anti-sub screen around it.

The FAS Dawn
Flight Deck

Krieg swallowed his medication and sipped from the canteen given to him by his orderly. Last night's nightmare put Krieg in a cautious and sour demeanor. Krieg had lots of nightmares since the War, but that one was the most vivid and worst. Krieg remembered washing the blood off of the rank and sword. Now he had to hand over the cursed rank and sword, to his XO. His XO was not thrilled. The Admiral's Rank was just over 300 years old. "I wonder how much blood is on those?" sighed Krieg. Krieg walked back to his quarters and gave his bags to the orderly. "Looks like we gotta new home."

The Orderly smiled and carried the bags out the door.

Dressed in his full navy Whites, the XO prepared the ship, mustering the troops and doing pre-ceremony inspections of his officers. "Radar! Where are the Dragons?"

"The Dragons are two hours out, sir"

"Officers! The Captain is on the Deck at his position awaiting the Ceremony, in one hour move the men to their positions. Dismissed!" XO Saunders commanded.

The Officers in platoon formation, took one step back, and saluted. Saunders returned the salute, and the officers about faced, and dispersed. Commands from the various officers could be heard through the ship. It was a sad day for them today but it is what it is.

The Heartless
LAF Denton

After a cautious flight the helicopter landed. "Orders, Underminister Azrael"

Azrael took out his mission papers to appendix B. "Pilot your orders are as follows, You are to be with your craft at all times. Any attempts at sabotage of your craft shall be met with your .50 Cal Service pistol. Any attempts to remove you from your craft or the area surrounding your craft will be fought off, or if need be destroy the craft or escape. Be in a constant state of readiness. If at anytime you leave the craft incase of mitigating circumstances or given permission based on threat level from mission TAC and/or diplomat (me) you will procede to lockdown systems, bays, and secure operating card on you at all times. When returning run through system checks, and go through pre-flight checklist." Azrael handed the pilot one red plastic card and a pill. "Take this pill if captured, read this code through satcomm, if comprimised. Acknowledge these orders."

"Acknowledged, will comply." said the pilot solemnly as he loaded his service pistol and holstered it. "Opening, cockpit. Goodluck, sir."

"Thank you, make sure you update the Dawn on our situation." Azrael adjusted his sword and hopped out. He legs were cramped but he masked the pain. "Not as young as I used to be." The pilot handed the combat laptop to Azrael, as Azrael cuffed it to his wrist. The scar over his left eye had become irritating to him, besides the diplomatic uniform and laptop he didn't look very diplomatic. "Tough times indeed."

The FAS Cannon Hill
CIC

Capt. Brickham despised the Falcon's but at the same time admired and respected their CO, Capt. Krieg. He personally asked that he be the one to present Krieg with the Admiral's Rank and Sword, saved by the previous Admiral from total destruction. Brickham looked intently into the rank and sword and studied them, a relic from when the Falcons and Dragons were unified in the past. The rank was solid gold with a raised globe in the center, clutched by both the Falcon and the Dragon. It had an anchor behind with crossed sabres. The sword was slightly curved and bore inscriptions of the previous Admiral's initials, and other designs. On the diamond encrusted scabbard with gold trim were inscriptions and some old orders given by Emperor George II. Brickham reverently called his orderly who carried the open oak box with crushed velvet lining. He carefully placed the sword in the box and closed the first lid, then he laid the rank into its holder, and closed the top lid. He secured the latches and locked the box with an old key as decorated as the sword, rank, and box. "Maybe with this union we can put the past behind us and focus on our duty. Raise the Flag, and tell my XO to get his bags packed he's gotta get moving into my quarters." Brickham walked down to return the key to Giambi

The XO Kane never imagined being Capt. of this ship, and the Capt. probably couldn't imagine being Vice Admiral. No one had been in those quarters since this ship was built. It was like the fleet was becoming whole again.

Underminister Giambi, Ministry of Defense, was seasick he didn't like boats but his job was to be on it until the ceremony was complete and he would fly back. With the keys to the Admiral's and Vice Admiral's quarters and boxes he needed to make sure he was at his best for the ceremony. "A ceremony during such a crisis? Military traditionalists, insanity."

LAF Denton
The squeal of tires pierced the air of the Tornado escorts touched down. At the same time a single dark saloon car came to a halt beside the helipad. No sooner had the wheels stopped turning than an incredibly slim brunette stepped out of the front passenger seat. Kayleigh Marsh wasn't one to sit in the back seat and idly wait for her driver to open the door for her. In fact, if she could drive the car herself, she would do.

"Hello there! You must be from Fort Ash?" She smiled broadly, her teeth a perfect white. She bleached them, yes, but a winning smile could often be half the battle during the course of diplomatic talks. As she stepped out from behind the car, it became clear that whilst diplomacy was on the books for today, it wasn't her day job. She wore full Air Force dress uniform, and held the rank of 'Flight Lieutenant'. "I hope our boys didn't give you too much of a shock up there."


Test Site Bravo
Over half a mile underground sat a large, concrete creation of tunnels and chambers. A relic, almost, of a time when the military spread its grip throughout the nation. Relegated to a storage dump over two decades ago, it had sat festering for twenty-three years until six months ago a specialist team of engineers and contractors had ventured into its depths once more, identifying its potential as a test site for a classified weapons system.

Over the past few days, there had been a massive spike in activity. Trains used to service the depot once or twice a week, depending on what stores were needed elsewhere. So far it had received eight trains in two days, and at least one more was expected before the present day was out.


Approaching Tolvanic Fleet
Both Nimrods were cruising at a little under five-hundred feet, making a steady four-twenty-five knots on two engines each. The bore down on the Tolvanic fleet, not flinching nor altering course. It was far from an attack run, but both crews knew it could be very soon. It felt like half the world was on their doorstep, and Tolvan was getting ready to take a nice size thirteen boot to the nice new door. Paranoia was rife, and trigger fingers were twitching.


Eastern Laceenia
These particular woods were the preferred training grounds of a not-so-elite group of survivalists. Every so often they would stumble out of their cushy jobs in the city, drive out here in their luxury 4x4's and spend a weekend roughing it and slapping each other on the back about how well they would do if they had to live off the land for a while. The mere fact they had stumbled upon a pair of foreigners without even realising it summed up the abilities of the group.

"So I told Bob his report was a bunch of trash, to go recheck the accounting data and redo the entire thing before close of play Tuesday." Their conversation was indeed enthralling, but they were passing along now, and taking their office lullaby with them.

Force L
100 Nautical Miles from Laceenian Waters

The Nimrods had detected and tracked ever since they took off, they weren't exactly stealthy aircraft by any means, the battle group Anti-Air Warfare Coordinator (AAWC), who was the Captain of destroyer CTS Stephen Finch (DDG-273), had allowed them to travel for several minutes unmolested to determine their intentions. It soon become clear that they were on an intercept course for the battle group. It was obvious they weren't an actual strike package, two Nimrods had a rather slim chance of breaching the battle group's air defence screen. As were all Tolvanic battle groups, Force L was protected by seven layers of defences. First were the F-194As of the CAP, second were the long range SA-38E SAMs, next were midrange AGM-304s, then the SA-34Fs, then the RIM-118 RAMs, and finally the M136 "Backstop" 35mm CIWS.

The controllers on board Dead-Eye had redirected the nearest CAP unit to intercept the Nimrods, the intercept group of two F-194As would meet up with the lumbering patrol planes in just over nine minutes.

The AAWC decided it was time to warn the planes off, picking up the radio handset he broadcast on a known open channel. "Inbound Laceenian Fighters, Finch Actual - You are approaching naval units of the Commonwealth of Tolvan, as per standard procedure we have declared a 100 nautical mile Exclusion Zone around our force. Violation of this zone may bring armed response if necessary.. You are to come left 045 degrees and prepare to escorted clear of our force. How copy?"

Nearing Tolvanic Fleet
Silence and the occasional burst of static was the only answer Finch Actual received from the Nimrods.

"Finch Actual, Papa Zero-Seven, please say again, you're coming through broken. Over" That was a blatant lie, there was no problem with the radio reception, but the two jets were going to push in as close to the fleet as they could get.

"One-Seven, Zero-Seven, hold your heading and speed, wait until they get fighters up here before we change course. Out"

Eastern Laceenia, Forest

Marten 1 and 2 closely observed the two chattering tourists though their binoculars. If they are not careful or don't get out of here soon enough they will probobly end up in the middle of a war. Marten 2 thought to himself.
The jetfighters seem to increase their activity, something is about to happen.

As the two civilians walked away, still making noise, Marten 1 slowly sneaked up to the 4x4 and pulled out the spark plug.

"What the hell is he doing?" Marten 2 whispered to himself.

ONS Wilhelm Von Seelow, Laceenian Territorial Waters

"Sir we're picking up some radio chatter between the Tolvan fleet and some Laceenian Nimrods. The Tolvans are trying to warn them away." The ops officer said as he closed the distance to Toland in the CIC.

"Alright, send some planes to protect them. Tell them to move quickly." responded Toland. 4 F-35's quickly went to burners and set course to rendezvous with the Laceenian planes.

Viper Flight
Intercept Course with Laceenian Nimrods

The two F-194As were closing on the lumbering Nimrods at about 600 knots. It wouldn't take them long to enter the effective range of their AIM-359A AMRAAMs.

CTS Stephen Finch (DDG-273)

The Captain was not amused by the Laceenian pilot's and their games. He turned to the Tactical Action Officer (TAO) and gave his orders. "Let's demonstrate how serious we are. Power up the illuminators and light these bitches up."

With that the Mk.XVI T4900 Targeting Array fired a steady beam of radio waves to illuminate the incoming planes, there was no way their ESM sets weren't exploding now.

Renegade Flight
Fifty nautical miles southeast of Force L

The two Pandoras of Renegade Flight had been redirected by the AWACS to intercept a flight of inbound planes from the Oseaton fleet. From the size and signature of the contacts they were likely F-35s, capable planes but the Pandoras were no slouches either.

The pilot of the lead Pandora hailed the Oseatons on an open channel. "Oseaton Fighters, Renegade Three - You approaching a Tolvanic Naval Force in international waters, alter your course 045 degrees to port and proceed clear of our airspace. How copy?"

NSS Hearken, Laceenian Territorial Waters

With the travel into Laceenian Waters complete, there was a divide in the ranks as to the level of readiness and work needed as they were now done with their transit to the locale. Most of the uninitiated, first-deployment sailors felt that their work was by in large over, while all the senior sailors knew that it had just begun.

The bridge had been relatively calm for the time being, seeing as the Laceenians felt that they could handle the three major incidents so far in their waters by themselves, and most of the commanders felt the same, seeing as one of them was outright their own fault in the eyes of every commander looking at the radar screens as two Nimrods played a dangerous game. The mood on the bridge was relaxed...but slowly growing to alert, as things heated up and the potential for a spiral out of control to war escalated in the region.

"Sir," the comms officer said to Captain Rieding with a furrowed brow, "The two Nimrods are being smashed with radio waves so much that passive sensors from our AWACS can catch it from here," he said coldly. He had been to war before, and knew this is exactly how it could begin.

So did Captain Rieding as his eyes looked dead-center at the comms officer for what seemed like an eternity before saying, "Alright, that's it. I'm not having war break-out while I'm here if I can help it. Comms, tell the Laceenians to split-up their shadow fleet if they want to follow us everywhere. They'll understand as soon as they see the new formations start to come together.

XO, get the fleets split up into three battlegroups," the XO and Airboss' eyebrows both raised simultaneously as they both heard the word 'Battlegroup' eschew forth from Rieding's lips. "One Battleship in one group as the Flagship, and the other in the other as the same, and ours as the lead Battlegroup and Flagship.

Lastly, Airboss, I want four Squadrons of Air-Superiority Aircraft and Strike Aircraft armed to the teeth proper orbiting each of the three Battlegroups within the hour. Also, get additional AWACS up around each group, and I want low-altitude high-speed recon flybys, let the other fleets here know that we are mobilizing to keep peace, and are figuring out how best to annihilate them if necessary."

The Bridge immediately sprung to life as the entire formation was scrambled to General Quarters. Lights and Klaxons went off everywhere across the 29 ship formation as thousands of sailors ran to their battlestations, and the formation split-up into three groups at flank speed. within minutes the first aircraft were up - the fast and powerful F-31R recon aircraft - two of the four, and soared off towards their respective fleets to photograph: One for the Tolvanic fleet and one for the VE fleet, quickly screaming up to their maximum speed of mach 3.4.

Captain Rieding covered his mouth with his right hand as a shit-eating grin broke-out over his face. This is exactly the distraction I need, he thought to himself.

Message to Laceenian Shadow Fleet

Due to Heightened Actions, we are splitting our fleet into three task forces to deal with possible threats.

Task Force Alpha - To Remain Near the Blast Site and Keep Patrol
DN Hearken Ocean Class CVN
DN Pintis Centaur (Modified) DDG
DN Typhoon Sabre DDG
DN Holden Dauntless DDG
DN Mystic River AOE
DN Magician River AOE
DN Courage Savior AH

Task Force Bravo - To Intercept Tolvanic Fleet
DN Magistrate Mackesnen Class BB
DN Bull Centaur (Modified) DDG
DN Algram Centaur (Modified) DDG
DN Alister Sabre DDG
DN Alvis Sabre DDG
DN Brave Dauntless DDG
DN Tiir Dauntless DDG
DN Revenge Revenge ASW
DN Silent Astron SSN
DN Helgar Tigershark AOE
DN Abasid Clan Grant AOR

Task Force Charlie - To Intercept VE Fleet
DN Magister Mackesnen Class BB
DN Naliir Centaur (Modified) DDG
DN Arcon Centaur (Modified) DDG
DN Langley Sabre DDG
DN Urvel Sabre DDG
DN Wrecker Dauntless DDG
DN Lantern Dauntless DDG
DN Typhoon Revenge ASW
DN Night Astron SSN
DN Helen Tigershark AOE
DN Near Clan Grant AOR

Message to Tolvanic Fleet

Notice: Due to heightened and dangerous actions by your fleet, and due to the nature of our fleet, we have dispatched a Battleship and escorts to come to within firing range of your fleet, which will be accomplished within one hour. We have also dispatched a recon aircraft to perform a fly-by of your assets to asses your total battle strength above and below seas. This is purely for recon purposes, and if your intentions are not war mongering you should have no quarrel with this relatively standard protectorate procedure. ETA on Recon Aircraft Three Minutes, Please Respond with due haste.

Captain Rieding
NSS Hearken

Message to VE Fleet

Notice: Due to heightened and dangerous actions by your fleet, and due to the nature of our fleet, we have dispatched a Battleship and escorts to come to within firing range of your fleet, which will be accomplished within one and one-half hours. We have also dispatched a recon aircraft to perform a fly-by of your assets to asses your total battle strength above and below seas. This is purely for recon purposes, and if your intentions are not war mongering you should have no quarrel with this relatively standard protectorate procedure. ETA on Recon Aircraft Three and One-Half Minutes, Please Respond with due haste.

Captain Rieding
NSS Hearken

Central Stockmoor

Grenge and Majior quickly and quietly sat down as the four guards took up positions around the door of the room, which quickly closed behind them. Grenge coughed into his shoulder and 'slicked-back' his short-hair with his large, red hands as he drew back his forehead and silently sighed, placing his hands on the table folded, eyes peering at the insignia of the man seated across the table from him.

Majior quickly rose and shook hands, introducing himself to the two men with a smile and a genuinely warm demeanor as he quickly sat down and waited for the Laceenians to begin the proceeding.

Nearing the Tolvanic Fleet

"Renegade Three, this is Oseaton Lead, this is international waters, we have every right to be here. We're merely exercising our right to fly in this area, over." said the Oseaton flight leader on the open net. The F-35's tightened up their formation and continued on course. They outnumbered the Tolvanic aircraft at this point but were prepared for anything. Their modified AIM-54 Phoenix missiles had a tremendous range advantage over any other missile deployed. It reached well over 100 miles and could accurately hit it's target. They were also armed with Sidewinders and AMRAAMs if the Tolvanic fighters got feisty. Oseato wasn't about to just abandon the Laceenian Nimrods.

Message to Captain Rieding

We've recently received orders to move further from Laceenian waters and proceed with patrol operations there. As we are leaving the immediate vicinity there will be no need for your gracious "escort". However, we do ask that you advise your allies to alter their course and attempt to enter missile range of my fleet as this may be mistaken for hostile intentions and responded to accordingly.

Rear Admiral Jacob Smith
Commander, Force L
Tolvanic Navy

Nearing Tolvanic Fleet
"Holy shit we're lit up like a Christmas tree back here. They've got us in their sights." There was a sudden buzz of activity aboard the lead Nimrod. They'd expected to be tracked on radar, but the sheer size of the response took the crew by surprise.

The pilot gripped the controls and pitched the nose down, entering a shallow dive, "Co-pilot, restart engines one and four, take us to five-hundred knots."

"Restarting one and four, making five-hundred knots" Switches were flicked, controls adjusted, and the two engines spun back into life.

"Papa One-Seven, Papa Zero-Seven, increase speed to five-hundred knots, make altitude one-hundred feet."

"Zero-Seven, roger than."

Both jets dipped and roared onwards, weapons systems still held on 'off'.


Central Stockmoor
"Gentlemen, firstly, I'm sure you've been welcomed to our nation by Leo, so let's get introductions out of the way. My name is Josh Dixon, Secretary of State for Defence, and this is Lieutenant General Frank Thornton, distinguished serviceman with the Laceenian Army for the better part of forty years." He paused and waited for his guests to introduce themselves.

Leo just sat their, unmoving. He now knew everyone in the room, which reassured him. He'd heard of the military man before, but found himself wondering exactly why he was involved in this sort of meeting.


Test Site Bravo
The final train of the night arrived, an ageing Class 105 in departmental livery, carrying a collection of scientists, military personnel and supplies. This wasn't unusual by itself; a lot of military personnel came and went, supplies had to be delivered as well as dispatched, and numerous civilian staff were known to work at the site even before it was transferred to the control of Project Longsword. Lately, however, it was becoming increasingly clear to anyone watching the comings and goings that the labyrinth of underground passages and rooms were being used a lot more than usual.


Task Force Goldroot
The bridge of LNS Camborough was a hive of activity. She hadn't even started her sea trials when she was pressed back in to service. Her systems remained similar to those she had prior to the overhaul for the most part. She was still powered by four gas turbines, could still make twenty-eight knots in a sprint, and still carried a complement of one-thousand. Her radar systems had been replaced, except for the Type 909 fire control radar
which had been removed along with the Sea Dart missiles it commanded, and her flight-deck extended to match that of LNS Stockmoor.

"Sir, this just came in from the NSS Hearken." The Chief Petty Officer handed a print-out of the communication to Captain Faulkner.

"Thank you." Her eyes skimmed the message. Three smaller forces. There was no way she could split her forces into three groups and maintain the protection they needed. She stood for a moment, considering how best to divide up her six surface vessels and two subs. No matter how she tried, she couldn't get the numbers to stack. "We're going to need a bigger fleet... Get on the horn to Naval Command, tell them the fleet we're shadowing is breaking up into three smaller forces. In order to maintain fleet security, we cannot form more than two small forces, leaving at least one of the smaller groups unsupervised. Ask them for more vessels or, failing that, recommendations."

"Aye, Captain." The comms officer adjusted his headset and stretched before beginning his transmission.

Glancing out across the white capped waves spread before her, Captain Faulkner frowned. Out there were fleets from at least three different nations. In here, she had control of one of the most advanced vessels currently afloat within the Laceenian Navy, and yet she felt completely exposed. "Double the CAP's, I want half of our Harriers up at all times. Same goes for the 'Kings. I want a full anti-submarine net up within the hour, and move to Force Condition Bravo, I think the Tolvan fleet is up to something... Call it woman's intuition."


Forested Area, Eastern Laceenia
The pair paused for a second as one of them checked his pockets. "Son of a... I've left the maps in the glove-box."

He partner, a brown haired, slightly chubby man, turned to him and shook his head, "Sure they're not in your pack?"

"Certain, I had 'em on the drive over, they've gotta be in the car."

"Forget them, we know these woods well enough to get back without a few lines on canvas."

"Maybe... I'd still feel better with them though." He turned and began walking back towards the car.

"Fine," His companion allowed the rucksack to slide off his back and lowered it to the ground, "I'll stay put here whilst you go back."

"It'll only take me a minute." Stealth was obviously not on the books for these two would-be commandos as they shouted to each other.

LAF Denton
Azrael bowed slowly. "Underminister Azrael, Ministry of Special Affairs, and Commander of the Fortress Guards." said Azrael as his medals gleamed in the sun. The scar across his eye paled as he realized that she looked similar to his now deceased wife, lost in the nuclear holocaust. "Excuse me, should I give you my Desert Eagle. My sword stays with me however, if you would be so kind. The Emperor has urgent business with your lord, and my pilot needs fuel." Azrael said solemnly. He was not used to women in uniform, and her smile was blinding.

The pilot sat on the Commanche and prepared his rations. He opened a hatch on the side of the craft and pulled a combat shotgun and a satcomm unit and slung it over his shoulder.

"Please don't mind the pilot, it is S.O.P. not a threat. Shall we go?" Azrael said respectfully.

The Dawn
Flight Deck

"Capt...er Admir...Capt...Sir! The Heartless reports landing at LAF Denton and the Underminister Azrael has been recieved."

"Thank you Saunders tell the heartless that within the hour reports, transmissions and his new post are to be on the FAS Cannon Hill. Tell him it is a SuperCarrier so those new protocols now apply."

"Yes, Sir...We will miss you on the ship sir."

"I know, me too."

LAF Denton
Kayleigh nodded politely as Azrael introduced himself, listening intently to his words, watching his body language keenly.

"Side arms are perfectly legal within Laceenia for any citizen with the correct paperwork, a privilege extended to all diplomatic visitors as well. Minus the papers, of course. Rifles are out, but Desert Eagles are fair game." She pauses, eyeing the pilot and his helicopter cautiously "As for swords, whilst not normal attire for the general population, again diplomatic visitors are afforded certain privileges not extended to the normal citizenry. Standard procedure for any aircraft landing here sees it fully refuelled and its stores replenished as needed. A ground crew should be along shortly, and I can certainly escort you to our nations leader, although at this moment it will not be Prime Minister Lawson as he is engaged in overseas diplomacy. Instead you'll be dealing with Mason Banks, Leader of the House of Commons and Acting Prime Minister."

She'd never considered any of her government to be her 'Lord', but now she came to think about it, it did make sense in some ways. She could also picture Mason as a stereotypical medieval Lord. This brought a slight grin to her lips.

Forested Area, Eastern Laceenia

Marten 1 closed the hood of the car, he heard the tourist approaching, it did not really matter, even if these two tourists spotted them they would not be in a position to do much as the car was now out of action.

Marten 1 quickly rolled under the car knowing with his camouflage he looked nothing more than a tuft of grass.

They had to deal with these two civilians, otherwise they might be a nuicence if they had to retreat back to the boat from the objective double time.
Marten 1 knew it, he did not want to kill these two poor bastards, but now atleast they would not be able to get the word out quickly if the Martens had to forget about stealth on their way back.

With all the commotion they had heard on their way to the shore from the boat, they would not be suprised if loud bangs would be heard soon.

Forest, Eastern Laceenia
"Dammit," The first man opened the car door and spent a minute rummaging inside the glove-box, "Mike. Mike!"

"What?" Mike didn't sound amused in the slightest. His patience had clearly run out.

"I can't find the damn thing!"

"So leave it then. We don't need it. Hell, we've got pens and paper, we can map this area ourselves it we want." Mike stood up and stretched, he already knew what was coming.

"Bugger that for a game of soldiers. Get yourself here and help me find the map."

And there it was, "Oh for fucks sake..." He pulled his backpack on and trudged back to the four by four.

The pair of hikers spent the better part of five minutes rummaging through the inside of the vehicle.

"Look, Liam, I don't know what you've done with the thing, but it isn't in the car." Mike stepped back and slammed the door shut. "Just forget it, lock the car up and lets get going, otherwise we'll be setting up camp in the dark."

"I'm sure I had it when we left." Mike took a step back from the car, gently closing the door and locking it, "But I'll be damned if I know where it's gone between then and now."

The pair picked up their rucksacks again and headed off into the woods again.

VEN Phelan

“VICE ADMIRAL, message from the NSS Hearken…..” said communication officer, while trying to get a better and clearer frequency.

“What is it? Have we made a new ally?” said VAdm Sam, hoping anxiously to see if the alliance works out.

“Ugh…no...Sir….they are sending a battleship and escorts to us…within firing range” said Comm. Officer.

“Damn…..” Sam runs to the red alert button that will sound an alarm really loud that the rest of the task force can hear the sound and then responded to the officer. “You tell them that we will not tolerate any attack….any attack upon our fleet will result an ugly battle. HELL WE ARE STILL IN THE INTERNATIONAL WATERS!!”

Sam talks in the loudspeaker “All crew in battle station, ready in battle station, expect a little visit.”

“Wait, is our F-35s are in the air?” Sam asking the Captain

“No, they just landed. I know what you’re thinking; you want to intercept those recon aircrafts. The other 5 F-35s are getting ready and I am proposing that we should get more ships for just in case.” said the Captain

“Fine call in Naval Base, Tac Zu Ly, and get 10 ships ready.” said Sam, seeing the Captain reaching the radio phone and calling the Base

Message to Captain Rieding

We’ve orders to patrol near Larceenia’s waters, there’s no intention to enter them until further notice. However, the second orders are that if the V.E. Ships are attack, it will result retaliation on Larceenia and its allies whom are in the vicinity. However, we do advise that you and your allies to alter your course or have your weapons on cold. Any attempt to fire will result in a tomahawk missile aiming at every bridge of your every ships.

Vice Admiral Sam Dinh
Commander, Task Force
Vietnam Empire Navy

Naval Update

Due to heightening intervention, 20 ships are in its way to the V.E. Task Force. However it will take 1 day to get to VAdm Sam

1x Battleship
4x Battle Cruiser
5x Destroyers
3x Carriers (will contain 5 F-22A Raptors, 5 Mig-29: TOTAL: 15 F-22a Raptors and 15 Mig-29s)
2x Frigates
5x Submarines (3 will be SSBN, 2 Will be SSN)

Central Stockmoor

"But of course Mr. Dixon," Majior responded as he shook hands with the man, and did likewise with Thorton as he finished, "Leo has been excellent so far. My name," he began gesturing to himself, "Is Majior Paktu, and this, is Captain Grenge Kadesh, the man who first spotted the explosion. So far we have been able to keep the idea of a nuclear blast in your country known only to myself, Grenge and his team, the taskforce in the area and the Diamid, at least in our own nation," he concluded as he sat down.

NSS Hearken

The mood aboard all the bridge and most certainly all the vessels in the area under Gahrodanthi rule was one of intensity; like waiting on the edge of a knife, waiting to let loose the dogs of war, while simultaneously hoping that they didn't have to. The Bridge was especially alert, waiting for the inevitable reply from the two fleets whom they had sent messages to inform that aircraft were to fly over their fleets. After what seemed like an eternity, but was actually only a minute or so, two messages came ringing through, and the comms officer relayed the transcripts of the transmissions to Rieding quickly and carefully.

"So," Rieding said, contemplatively, "Neither the Tolvans nor the VEs specifically stated that we could not perform the fly-by," he concluded matter-of-factly. "Well, by technicality, since they did not say we could not perform them, then I'd say we have de facto permission to do so. Besides, I think that they'd have a very hard time hitting something going over a kilometer a second anyway. Green Light for both recon ops," he finished strongly, his air coordinator quickly letting both aircraft know that the recon fly-by was approved.

Near Tolvanic Fleet, International Waters

The Plane Screamed through the air as the pilot's helmet told him that he was to proceed with the mission. The plane tore the sky apart as it accelerated to its maximum speed of mach 3.4, and raced toward the Tolvanic fleet, the pilot flicking switched along the board that activated the advanced recon suite. The fly-by would happen in less than a second when the plane arrived over the fleet. The pilot took a deep breath and exhaled as his ETA counter dwindled to thirty-five seconds.

Near VE Fleet, International Waters

The plane ripped the air asunder over its frame as the pilot's helmet confirmed that he was to proceed with the mission. The plane accelerated to its maximum speed of mach 3.4, and raced toward the VE fleet at more than 1100 km per second, the pilot flicking switches along the board that activated the advanced recon suite, which quickly came to life under the center of the plane. The pilot stared at the ETA counter as it fell below the one minute mark.

ONS Wilhelm Von Seelow, Oseaton Fleet, Laceenian Territorial Waters

The inbound recon flight was picked up on radar long before it made it anywhere near the fleet. The radar operator called over the ops officer to give him the news, who in turn headed to give the Admiral the message.

"Sir, there appears to be a fast moving plane heading over, not only our fleet, but several others. They appear to be recon flights, but we can't be totally sure. He's a fast mover and will be within range in less than a minute."

Adm. Toland immediately issued his orders. "If it attempts to overfly the center of the battlegroup, shoot it down. Have a few F-35's escort it out of the area. If he is headed right for us, open fire first and we'll sort it out later, I don't care who these guys think they are but they are not going to interfere with us."

Toland stood and walked out of the CIC to look at the flight deck. He hoped the recon flight would do the smart thing and back off, but if not, he was prepared to do battle.

Leviathan Fleet
The cannon crew loaded the blank and awaited the order from the honor commander.
Krieg removed his sword and rank and attatched it to his former XO with a hard thump. After reviewing the sailors he knew the ship was in good hands. The XO choked back the pain and stood at attention. Saunders saluted Krieg and about faced.

"Present, Arms!" The ship saluted as Krieg moved to the heli flanked by his orderly.

Krieg walked briskly to the heli and boarded he looked back as the single cannon fired and reloaded. Now promoted Capt. Saunders about faced again and called out his first order and the cannon fired again sealing the promotion. The cannon salute was returned from the FAS Cannon Hill as a similar ceremony concluded to make way for the final ceremony.

The Heli landed on the FAS Cannon Hill as the Underminister took his place. The Orderly grabbed the Krieg's luggage and hauled it to the Admirals' quarters as with Brickham's orderly to the Vice Admirals' quarters. The two signed the papers on the desk and the underminister awarded the two with their ranks and swords with a hard thump. They bowed to the Underminister and four cannon shots went off one at a time. The Falcons' and Dragon's merger was official, the Leviathan Fleet had been reborn.

Krieg gave his first order and a cannon boomed. "Secure the Airspace and somebody light a fire under the TACs ass! And get these archaic cannons out of here!" Krieg had to mess with the dragons' at least once. The Honor Guard battery quickly hauled the cannons off the deck. "I hate those things. Make my head hurt." Brickham laughed as they went to the Officer's Mess.

LAF Denton
Before Azrael even put one foot in the vehicle. The pilot ran to the vehicle startling the woman. "Sir! Capt. Krieg has just been made Admiral and Brickham Vice Admiral of the recommisioned Leviathan Fleet. Seems the Falcons' and Dragons' are going to much more closer now that their old fleet is back!" The pilot laughed cause he understood the idea of the Falcons' and Dragons' working together as a potential mini war, but he was originally from the Imperial Fleet.

"What?!" Azrael said remembering how the fleet split. "Well its up to Krieg and Brickham to keep it together. Thank you for the update." He looked at the woman as he got into the car. She looked like she had questions. "It goes back to the CAD War. Thats when I got this." he said pointing to his long scar on his left eye going down the side of his face. He reached in his pocket for his pill container to ease the pain that even now troubled him. Reaching deep he found the cracked wedding band. He winced in pain from a combination of the pain of his facial injury and the loss of his family.

The Heartless
LAF Denton
The car drove off and a ground crew showed up. The pilot watched over them wary and untrusting, he held the combat shotgun at port arms. "Fill er' up but try anything that you would regret." Because of the mechanical training needed to be a pilot, every pilot usually fixed and maintained their own vehicle, which facilitated the bond between pilot and machine. "I love my bird." The SatComm unit bleeped and he picked up the reciever. "The Heartless"

"Heartless, This is the Dawn, be advised your new station is the FAS Core after return of Underminister Azrael to the FAS Cannon Hill. Welcome to the Leviathan Fleet"

"Understood, will comply!" the pilot said happily. "Finally a heli boat!"

Naval Update
FAS Cannon Hill (Class I Supercarrier)
FAS Dawn (Class II Carrier)
FAS Core (Escort Carrier) (Heli and AWAC site)
FAS Ash's Pride (Destroyer)
FAS Galapogos (Destroyer)
FAS Calamity (Battleship)
FAS Maine (Battleship)
FAS Greatshire (Battleship)
FAS Dalago (AA/AS Frigate)
FAS Jones (AA/AS Frigate)
FAS Attowa (AA/AS Frigate)
Submarines (4 SSNs)

LAF Denton
As the car eased away from the airfield, Kayleigh dipped her hand into the breast pocket of her tunic and fingered a stainless steel locket.

"War takes from us all in one way or another, be it our youth, our looks, our loved ones or a combination of the above." She paused momentarily as she glanced out of the window. "It also changes nations. Can fracture them, or reveal cracks we couldn't see during peace time."

The car turned onto a minor road and headed towards the centre of the city.


Task Force Goldroot
The force had been split into two squadrons. Unfortunately, this left one Gahrodanthi Task Force unescorted. It hadn't been difficult to decide the vessels sent to intercept the fleet from Vietnam Empire. Things between the two parties seemed to be a little hotter than Captain Faulkner would like. She also wanted to sent a group to the Tolvanic fleet, but couldn't afford to leave foreign naval vessels inside Laceenian waters without a Laceenian presence to keep an eye on them.

Standing on the bridge once more, Faulkener watched as the vessels of Squadron Bravo kept position with to the Gahrodanthi force remaining in Laceenian waters. Her thoughts were interrupted by the voice of a young communications officer.

"Command has been back on the blower. They've ordered three Type 42's and a pair of 23's back to us from Task Force Emissary, along with two County class destroyers."

"Excellent," This was good news, these additional vessels would certainly enable them to monitor all three Gahrodanthi squadrons, "What's their ETA?"

"Thirty-eight hours, Sir."

Captain Faulkner shook her head and muttered something "Damn". Her voice returned to its normal level, "Get them to shadow the Gahrodanthi Task Force destined for the Tolvanic Fleet. I've got an uneasy feeling about what might happen between them, especially given the fact the Tolvanic military seems to like a game of brinksmanship, and the Gahrodanthi don't look like the kind of people to back down."

"Yes Sir."


Central Stockmoor
Leo smiled at the mention of a nuclear blast. Nothing quite matched the knowledge that your adversary was edgy about something, and by dropping the test in as early as the introduction, he knew exactly what they wanted to talk about. He would, however, leave it to Josh to start the explanation.

"Ah, the test detonations. Yes. It'd be pointless to try and tell you they were anything but nuclear tests, so I shan't waste your time. As you are no doubt aware, we carried out two nuclear tests in a remote area of our nation. The first one was a failure, although it set off enough petrol to get us noticed. The second test, however, was much more successful, and brought us even more international attention." He paused, allowing himself a sip of water as he gave his guests a chance to digest the information, even though he was sure they already knew it, and to ask any questions they may have at this early stage.


LAF Denton, Radar Control
The staff had been tracking multiple returns over the last few hours. Most had been attributed to patrols by the various fleets off their coast, the Tolvanic incident, Laceenian aircraft on patrol and civilian flights in and out of the area. Two, however, had drawn much attention. Fast movers from the the Gahrodanthi fleet. Initial concern had considered them as missiles due to their speed and headings, but their signatures had been too large to be anti-shipping missiles, so the had to be some form of aircraft, possibly on reconnaissance missions. There was no way to verify this visually: None of the shadow fleet had been close enough to ID any aircraft as the left the deck, and there was no aircraft in the Laceenian inventory quick enough to catch the blips.

Forest, Eastern Laceenia

Marten 1 rolled out and proceeded back to Marten 2.
"What was that good for?" He asked.

"Now we don't have to worry about them driving away and alerting the police in case they spot us on the way back." Marten 1 answerd.

The picked up their backpacks and started to walk to the objective, it was still a days hike to it.

OOC: Yea I know the post is bad, I have to think up something good.

Vehicle, Minor Road, Laceenia

The ride was quiet and Azrael pondered. "You know this area is very beauti--" bleep bleep. The case sounded off, and Azrael quickly keyed in the code. The latches retracted and Azrael opened the case. The screen lit up and palace number blinked he picked up the reciever. "Underminister Azrael here."

"It is I, Emperor Farrow."

"Your majesty!"

"Calm down, Azrael we are old friends. What is your Status?"

"I am currently on the way in a diplomatic transport. Sir, I have a question."

"Yes?"

"Should you have recommisioned the Leviathan."

"I did it to consolidate, and end old feuds. Do not question my commands."

"I am sorry, your highness, I just worry..."

"Concentrate on the task at hand, Azrael, I am counting on you." The reciever buzzed and quit."

Azrael typed a message to the Heartless and sent it. The message was returned three minutes later. He replaced the reciever and closed the case the latches buzzed and wirred with a thunk and the green light returned to red. "Seems like the other fleets are stirring up a bit. It was a mistake to send all these fleets in, it looks like war all over again." he said looking at the wars, battles, and conflicts depicted on his sword. "Lets hope we can become allies." He couldn't help but look away from her. She looked so similar to his wife. She was young though. "Does this thing have a bar?"

FAS Cannon Hill
Fleet Council Room
Leviathan Fleet

The Captains of the fleet were assembled at the table with Krieg and Brickham on the ends. The Dragon side was all present but the Falcon side was missing all but three. The wars always took its toll. "Should we move in closer and situate ourselves within the pocket of fleets or stay put until the we get word from the Underminister and Emperor?"

"I recommend we move in, closing the distance will keep us up to date, and much faster to respond if the shit hits the fan." said Saunders.

"Go figure the leader of the Falcons would recommend, charging in!" said a Dragon.

"Yes, us Falcons arent cowards."

"Yeah well us Dragons aint dead!"

"Gentlemen if this continues the Leviathan will function inefficiently." scolded Krieg

"Yes, sir." said the captains

"I say we move in two subs to observe, and do a recon fly-by." said Brickham.

"Sounds good. Cautious and respectful. The Nautilus and Grayson prepare to move out, Your mission is to observe and report." commanded Krieg

"Aye Aye, Sir!"

"Capt. Detrick get some birds over the area and get the cook to make something good for a change. Dismissed."

Force L

The orders to withdraw from the area were not unexpected, word had reached the fleet that the Tolvanic holdings in the Ascension Islands were preparing to hold elections and the local Socialist Party was polling much stronger than expected. The Government decided that the ships of Force L would be better served showing the flag there than wasting any more time off Laceenia.

With that the fleet set a course to take it further away from Laceenian waters and increased speed to 20 knots. The task force would continue to keep a watch on the Laceenian and Oseaton aircraft, but no further action would be taken. The Commonwealth no longer had any real interest in Laceenia.

*Message to All Parties Involved in Laceenia*

Due to unforseen developments in a nearby Tolvanic territorial holding, we are withdrawing the bulk of our forces from the proximity of Laccenian waters. However, we will continue small scale patrols of the area. Our forces are commencing their withdrawal as I write this will be well clear of Laceenian waters within 96 hours. However, be advised that any aggressive actions taken against Tolvanic forces will still be met in kind.

Robert Donovan
Foreign Minister
Commonwealth of Tolvan

TO: All Parties Involved in Laceenian Waters

Recent developments closer to home forces our fleet to withdraw from the area, much like the Commonwealth of Tolvan. We still morally support Laceenia, and will recommit forces to the area as needed. We will be monitoring the situation fully and will not tolerate any attacks on Laceenia. The Oseaton 1st Fleet will complete it's withdrawal in the next 48-72 hours.

Sincerely,
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l151/UEF-Hokie/morrellsig.jpg
General Erwin Morrell, Minister of Defense

LBC News
Following the increased foreign naval presence just outside Laceenian waters, the Ministry of Defence today announced the reactivation of several mothballed vessels including the following: LNS Guiley, an Invincible Class Aircraft Carrier, LNS Handsworth and LNS Mandiford, both Centaur Class carriers, along with a collection of frigates, destroyers and submarines of various classes. A spokesman stated this was in response to the present threat from foreign forces and that many of the vessels would likely be stood down once the situation was resolved.


Test Site Bravo
The first train of the day eased to a halt at the single platform serving the base. The locomotive shuddered as the driver cut the engine and clambered down from the cab as troops began loading creates labelled 'Rations, 24 hour, Various Menus'.

At the same time, an unusual train eased its way in through Stockmoor Station. It wasn't on any usual freight timetable, nor was listed as a special charter. The avid train spotter could tell an interested party that two Class 25 locomotives were hauling a train made up of two Mark One GUV's, a single Mark One Standard Open and a Mark One Brake Standard Open. To everyone else, it was just one really old looking service.


Approaching Tolvanic Fleet
The Nimrods were preparing for their over-flight of the fleet whilst monitoring their radar closely for missile launches.

"Papa Zero-Seven, Air Control, abort mission, break left and bugout to Denton. I say again, abort mission, break left and bugout to Denton,"

The pilot pushed the yoke left, initiating a bank that would take the aircraft away from the Tolvanic vessels. At the same time the second Nimrod performed an identical manoeuvre.

"Air Control, Papa Zero-Seven, roger that, aborting and RTB."

"What do you think has happened for them to call us back?" The co-pilot spoke, beginning the climb back to cruising altitude, cutting back the throttle to maintain a steady 490 mph.

"Not sure.", the radar operator chipped in, "Maybe the crisis is over?"

The pilot levelled the wings and glanced over his instruments, "Maybe, we'll know more once we get back to base."


En Route to Central Stockmoor, Laceenia
"Hopefully it won't come to war. I know we've done quite a bit to stir up the international community, albeit accidentally, but hopefully there'll be a peaceful solution." She sighed slightly. Azrael had seen a lot of war in his time, that was clear. "A bar, no. Unfortunately those upstairs decided alcohol and diplomacy shouldn't mix in the back seat of a car. There is, however, an officer who always carries a hip-flask of the finest whiskey Fort Manigue produces. Single malt, twenty-five years in the cask. Interested?" A small smile spread across her lips as she asked the question.

En Route To Central Stockmoor, Laceenia

"Absolutely" replied Azreal. He drank hard from the flask. The case beeped again, and Azrael was quick to answer it. "Fleets are starting to pull out! What is going on here! Please enlighten me, mam!"

Leviathan Fleet
Fleet Council Room

"With the fleets pulling out we should move in to fill the gap!" said a Dragon.
"I agree" said Capt. Saunders.
"Wow. the fleet working together! good! Then move in. Orderly relay my orders at once! Return to your ships, Ready Stations everyone"

En-route to Stockmoor
Kayleigh looked confused at the news of withdrawals. The last she had heard there was a huge build-up off the coast and some air-to-air stupidity. "Any news of fleets breaking off are as much a surprise to me as they are to you. It can only be a good sign, however."

She wasn't so sure. Withdrawing forces wasn't always the positive it appeared to be. Submarines could still linger, ready to pounce on any unsuspecting vessels. It could also be a symptom of a larger, less pleasant situation developing. A pre-emptive strike against her country was never out of the question, and the Flight Lieutenant remembered her early career, sitting on the runway in a Victor bomber, checking launch messages during drills. Each of those could have been an attack, thankfully none of them were. Seconds later, she snapped back to the current time and place.

"Hopefully those in government will know more when we get there."


Test Site Bravo
There was a tangible buzz in the air as military personnel began arranging one of the recently converted storage rooms. The room sat over two miles under ground and had been modified to provide the ideal testing space for the detonation. Secure, secret, and almost invisible to prying eyes passing overhead.

"ETA on Mace One is eighty minutes." A private handed a clipboard to the base commander, who nodded.

"OK, I want all non-essentil staff out of here within the hour."

"Aye, Sir."

Near Laceenian Waters

Force L was now well on its way to the Ascension Islands and the forces en route to augment the Tolvanic presence had turned away. However, that didn't meant the Commonwealth had completely withdrawn from the waters near Laceenia. As the big surface fleet sped away a force of six submarines had silently slipped into the area and were now patrolling the area. The Tolvanic Submarine Service was oft overlooked in lieu of the Fleet Air Arm and Surface Warfare Command, but they liked it that way. For now they'd stay out of sight and keep an eye on things.

Near Laceenia's Waters

Due to the decrease of international presences, the Task Force are still on patrol near Larceenian Waters, the reinforcement has arrived. There was no indication of some trap against the VE since they are still on International waters, but weapons are ready. Some submarine are fueling their cruiser missiles to shoot down any ICBM and as well for the aircraft on flight deck ready to be launch, in case for air threat.

"Things are too quiet......wait whats over there.." said VAdm Sam Dinh grabbing his binoculars.

"Jesus, its another fleet down there....if they are going to attack Larceenia, they must be mad! Larceenia hasn't pose a huge threat to the international nations..."

CTS Mako (SSN-126)
Somewhere near Laceenian Waters

The Mako was one of six Type 94 attack subs operating off Laceenia at the moment. In fact, the subs of the ad hoc Task Force 22.4 were the only Tolvanic ships near Laceenia at the momemnt, except for a couple frigates that were escorting a convoy a few nautical miles to the northwest. Each Type 94 carried sixty Mk. 60 torpedoes and twenty-four AGM-303 "Lance" supersonic cruise missiles.

The Mako was trailing a task force of Laceenian ships at a safe distance. The sub was cruising below the first thermocline and making just four knots, while the Laceenians were moving faster the Mako's course kept her close enough to track the noisy surface ships, or "targets" as the submariners called them, with ease. For now they'd keep an eye on their friends in Laceenia.

OOC: Laceenia - I apologize if you've posted this and I overlooked it, but could you post an ORBAT of your naval forces operating off the coast?

LNS Nodens, Off The Northern Coast of Laceenia
The Porpoise Class submarine had been reactivated after the increased aggression and brinksmanship of the Tolvanic fleet. Her captain, a fifty-nine year old veteran submariner. Some would call it fate, he called it coincidence, but the Nodens had been the first submarine he'd ever served on, and his first placement as Executive Officer almost two decades ago. Presently, the vessel was sitting on the surface, taking on supplies from a nearby tender.

Her orders, received not fifteen minutes earlier, involved tracking the vessels from Fort Ash. Unusual orders, especially given that things appeared to be cooling down slightly over the last few hours. But orders were orders, and he'd ensure they were carried out.

(OoC: I don't think I posted an orbat, so here we go:

2x Invincible class aircraft carriers
2x Centaur class aircraft carriers
4x County class destroyers
6x Type 42 destroyer
1x Type 82 destroyer
5x Leander class frigate
6x Type 21 frigates
9x Type 22 frigates
5x Type 23 frigates
1x Ocean class LPH
3x Albion class LPD
2x Fearless class LPD
2x Churchill class submarine
3x Oberon class submarine
4x Porpoise Class attack submarines
3x Resolution class submarine
5x Swiftsure class submarine
2x Trafalgar class submarine
4x Valiant class submarine
1x Victoria Class submarine
1x Vanguard Class submarine

Obviously, there's not a lot more than that available to be called on given you're on my doorstep and nearly all the navy was home. About all I could have left would be the handful of vessels that remain in inactive reserve, along with minesweepers and patrol boats, neither of which are really useful in the current situation.)

OOC: RL has been preventing me from being very active recently. My activity should be normal from now on though.

IC:
Central Stockmoor

"Well, that's more than comforting to know," Majior said as he leaned back in his chair. As he did, he met his gaze with Grenge, who was also in somewhat apparent shock that the Laceenians had been able to have a failed test without the Gahrodanthi government knowing.

"Our major concern now, knowing full-well that it was an orchestrated test, are your true intentions with your new-found nuclear capabilities, and the establishment of a permanent diplomatic office in your nation."

Central Stockmoor

Josh listened intently to the questions, the waited for ten or so seconds before beginning his answer. "Our goal is to provide an effective deterrent against nuclear aggression by other nations. To assure them of their total destruction if they use their nuclear arsenal against us." His voice was calm, yet carried the undertone of a man who held his nation above all else. Above his job, above his life, even above his God. Patriotic would have been an understatement, zealot would probably have been a more accurate description.

"Ever since man warred over caves with wooden sticks, they have sought to increase their armaments. Be it by tying a lump of rock to their club to form a rudimentary axe, or causing an uncontrollable fission reaction to cause a nuclear detonation. With each advance, the tribe, kingdom or nation that lagged behind risked being subdued at best, wiped out at worst, by those who had the new technology and knew how to use it well." He certainly had the manner of a fanatical extremist who believed in defence of his country at any cost. Yet he'd risen to the position he now held in what was a relatively conservative government. His fervour must be tempered by his level head, or he would have been little more than a raving nut professing the risk of foreign powers on Laceenia's existence.

Instead he was sat in government professing the nations right to defend herself from foreign nuts. "All we want to ensure is the safety and security of every man, woman and child within Laceenia, or, failing that, promise them that any enemy who does attack us with weapons of mass destruction will get as good as he gives. It will, hopefully, be the part of our arsenal most responsible for keeping peace, as ironic as that may be." He smiled wryly and looked at each man in turn, allowing a few moments for everything to be absorbed and digested before continuing. "As for the establishment of a diplomatic office within this nation, I believe that would be acceptable, although the final decision rests on the shoulders on the Foreign Office."

Leo nodded as Josh spoke. He couldn't see any real reason for the request to be denied. During his long career within the Diplomatic Corps, he'd seen a lot of embassies open and close, but never had a nation been rejected for a Laceenian embassy. Not that there were many to speak of these days after decades of isolationist rule.

(OoC: Due to other events in my life, namely a much needed vacation, I'll be out of contact completely between August 26th and September 2nd. I'll respond to all threads I'm involved in as soon as possible upon my return.)

TO: ALL PARTIES

Due to another conflicting issue at National Assembly and the Government of Vietnam Empire. All military branches of the V.E. be withdrawn back to home port.

One Naval Fleet near Larceenia has been ordered to be pulled out of the intervention of Larceenia's nuclear missiles. This withdrawal will commence immediately within 10 hours.

Sincerely,
President Isham Mendoza

Leviathan Fleet

Moving into the vacumm from the withdrawing fleets and linking up with the already present forward subs, the Leviathan Fleet positioned itself in the pocket.

"Lots of Contacts, Admiral. The forward subs report underwater activity, and we have detected still a large number of ships."

"I want exit strategies and a shore team ready in case things get ugly. Our Priority is to recieve Underminister Azrael when the time comes, All Captains will message their ship reports ASAP...Oh and get me some of that good coffee"

"Yes, Sir!" The orderly rushed to his desk and picked up the phone to the comm room and searched his desk for the good stuff.

0300h, Test Site Bravo
"Detonation in three. Two. One. Detonation!"

The compound shook, dust falling from the ageing ceilings as the decades old structure took the force of the shock wave. six miles away, a temporary command centre had been constructed to monitor the test.

The area surrounding the bomb had been vapourised. Nothing remained of the immediate rock or complex, and on the surface, a large crater had been formed as the cavern created by the blast collapsed. Exact readings for the detonation weren't available yet, but extimates had been in the range of between thirty and fifty kilotons, and initial siesmic reports of 5.3 on the Richter scale tallied with these figures. Somewhere in the control room, a bottle of champagne was opened. Mace One had been a success.