NationStates Jolt Archive

New Misenae, 8.01am

Another day was beginning in the capital, the sunrise announced by the wailing of sirens and the echoes of another attack on the city. Smoke hung thick, hourly attacks causing columns of smoke to rise continually into the air.

Paramilitaries took care of policing in New Misenae now; the Royal Metropolitan Constabulary reduced to a day-to-day force; murders investigations were overseen by Civil Protection, house searches carried out entirely by gas-mask clad, black-suited Civil Protection operatives, explosive in their methods and mentality. Foreigners were treated with particular suspicion; the majority of the Waldenburger population had been moved to camps in the midcountry, the Church all but shut down. Though underground services were held, those caught faced stiff penalties, usually amounting to transportation or a lengthy prison sentence. Other foreigners were not free of it; if your papers did not show you as Barronian by birth, you were stopped, searched, and sent on your way if nothing could be found.

The Civil Protection teams were fearsome in their methods; usual house entry involved blowing the doors off, before storming the house with tasers and rubber bullets. Several injuries later, this was stepped down, despite all lawsuits being thrown from the court under the name of "Wartime Necessary Collateral". The press was reduced to "Wartime Freedom", printing only government approved stories and turning them into little more than propaganda rags, mouthpieces for the "glorious government efforts". The country was suppressed, not by the enemy, but by their own government in it's misguided attempts to force safety upon it's people.

Just one of these events had taken place at 55 Poplar Boulevard, in the plush residential area of South New Misenae. Five-bedroom houses were the norm here, and the atmosphere was inevitably peaceful, the hum of luxury cars and delivery vehicles the only things to break the silence. Today was different. At 6 o'clock that morning, Poplar Avenue woke with a crack as the plastic explosive jammed into the door handle and around the hinges blew the door off it's hinges. Valerian D'Aubry, a 42-year-old Damiran bank manager, had just finished his shower readying for an early start at the Central Branch of the National Portsmouth & Southampton Bank (NPSB). As the remains of his door clattered down the hallway, the sound of jackboots filled his house as Civil Protection Operatives stormed in.

"CP! CP! On the ground!"
"Room 1, clear!"
"Room 2, all clear!"
"Room 3..."

The sound of boots was soon clattered up the stairs, and it was all Valerian could do to keep his eyes open as the operatives kicked down his door. One, pointing a gun at him, screamed for him to hit the floor. Valerian froze. The operative swung. The butt of a gun connected with his chin, near-breaking his jaw and causing him to collapse to the floor. His wife soon joined him, screaming at the top of her lungs. She was soon gagged with a pair of her own socks as cable-ties were put around their wrists.

30 seconds later, their children were marched into the room, gagged and bound. The house was ransacked, though the operatives said nothing of what they were looking for nor why. 15 minutes passed before the men said anything. The commander of the unit marched into the room, taking his knife from it's holder and cutting the cable ties. Lifting the family one by one onto the bed, he informed them that a cleanup team would arrive "within the hour". Without another word, he left the room, and the house, climbing into the back of a waiting patroller (http://i497.photobucket.com/albums/rr337/NSAdenia/Uniforms%20and%20People/CivilProtection.png), which, with a roar, made off down the road. The house was simply left, without a door, and it's family traumatised. Across the city, this was being repeated one-hundredfold, families subjected to raids without warning or warrant,

The war with the Hegemony had made Barronia unpopular on many levels, not least with the Delian League, who, upon hearing of the daily raids now occurring, would be forced to act.

OOC: This, indeed, is my final thread, my exit strategy until such a time as I feel I want to bring Barronia back. All threads I am in currently, if unrelated to the Hege-LION conflict will continue; the Hege-LION conflict will be brought to a satisfactory close for Barronia.

My new nation, Brittanican Adenia, will be taking the majority of my time from hereonin, though you may see Barronia popping up in some character RP's from the point of a DL Officer or similar. Any questions/comments should be TG'd to me.

New Misenae.
Later that day.

Iulius went through his regular daily routine. Wake up, take a shower, got to the small but coquette Damiran coffee shop at the corner of the street, enjoy a cup of coffee and catch up on the latest news. He was just one of the many far away from home forming the Damiran community in Barronia, but by far the most famous one. That fame, owed to his family, the Belisarius, was the same thing that drove him so far away from his homelands. Initially his stay in Barronia had been relatively pleasant, without any major concerns, his pockets more than enough to allow him a life of luxury without any complications, but lately that was starting to change.

With the advent of the LION/Hegemony war, one that the Principality of Damirez and with it the Delian League looked at with suspicions, the state of affairs in Barronia started to change and not in a good way either. To top it all, once the Waldenburgers shifted against the Barronians hostility from the central authorities towards the foreign citizens became open, even going as far as sending the entire Waldenburger population into camps of the rumors circulating on the streets were to be believed. But it was what he heard that morning that disturbed Iulius the most.

”Did you hear?” an old lady, a gossip if he knew one, spoke to her companion and foe some reasons he couldn't ignore her words, ”That nice young man, D'Aubry,” he phazed out for a few seconds as the old lady commented on D'Aubry, he already knew that for her anyone under sixty was a young man before catching up on the conversation again, ”He got picked up this morning by the CPO with his entire family!”

The outraged reply of the other woman was ignored as Iulius started thinking about the implications of this act. Until now it was true that the Barronians treated the Damiran citizens rougher than usual but beyond the occasional barbs and the never ending controls and the foreign citizens belonging to the League were confident in their belief that the Barronians would leave them alone to do their work. The cup of coffee was left unfinished on the table as he hastily reached his conclusions and left the cafe towards the Damiran Embassy. If this was true then things were probably going to get very dangerous in the next few days.

The Principality of Damirez.
Emergency Council.

At the moment the news about the increasingly aggressive behavior of the Barronian authorities towards Damiran and League citizens reached Librescu, he was already in a heated debate with the other members of the Emergency Council. The Kiravian declaration of war against LION had determined the Council to gather a night before and many were already tense and stressed about the current state of affairs when the news arrived. The first to erupt was admiral Fatima Al'Hamil, currently on the Independent, one of the Longsword class vessels in the Delian League Navy.

”Are they out of their minds!?” she lost her temper for a brief second, just enough to show her thoughts to the others, the scars of the Damiran tragedy in Alfegos yet to heal, even though the feelings between the two countries were mended after the brutal conflict with the insane dictator that almost brought Nova in a nuclear war, ”This can't be happening again!” were any of the other participants at the conference in the same room with her they would have noticed the trickle of blood coming from her closed fists, the nails piercing the flesh.

”Let's hope it'll never reach the same levels as that Fatima,” Librescu admonished her, but it was clear if you looked at his livid face that the memory of the Alfegan massacre weighed heavily on his soul, ”Those are times none of us wishes to relive again!” the firm statement served to distract the council from their dark thoughts just long enough for the president to change the topic, ”What assets do we have in Barronia?” he asked.

”For starters,” an usually silent participant at these meetings started first, ”There the close connections that their intelligence service have with the VSIS. This should provide us with valuable intel should things go sour.”

”In addition,” Flavius added his own bits to the conversation, ”There's also the Vetakan Defence Force Joint Military Base Kingsley, that could prove to be quite an asset. The Vetakans won't enjoy these happenings any more than we do.”

”Good, that means we have some sort of cover on the affair. Fatima?”

”Currently, in accordance to previous plans DLN Glory is in the immediate vicinity of Barronia,” she answered understanding what Librescu asked of her, ”But what matters most is the Fourth League Expeditionary Force. It should be able to reach Barronian waters in a couple of days if needed.” This was the result of previous plans mapped out by the League, plans that failed to fit reality now in the light of the Kiravian declaration of war and the incidents in Barronia. ”DLN Supremacy can be redirected to the area too, including the entire fleet accompanying her and we can contact some of the League members for further support.”
”Impressive assortment of forces Fatima,” Davout was the one to comment, never an adept of the gunboat approach to diplomacy, ”I just pray that we don't have to actually use them,” he ended his comment, a subtle threat hidden in his words.

”Very well,” Librescu cut the conversation before it could devolve into an exchange between angry, tired high ranking officials, ”We'll notify the Delian League members about the ongoing situation, draft a response towards the Barronians condemning their actions and organize the evacuation of League citizens out of Barronia. Is there anything else I'm forgetting?”

”You make it sound easy,” Fatima managed a laugh, ”But no, that seems to be most of it.”

"Then let's move it people!"

SIC

Office of the Director of Intelligence, 27th Floor, Office 0001, North Tower, St Edwards Complex, General Headquarters of Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service (VSIS), New City, New Theeb, Southern Vetaka:

Director Campbell Operational Directive Head of Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service paced the room sternly and silently pulling his black braces away from his body. Every now and again he would come to a halt and look around at the rooms occupants whom were equally as silent as he was. They where all fixated on the speakerphone before them:

“I accept your point Campbell I do, but this is out of my hands and with the greatest of respects I agree with the decision. Just because the Barronians are at war does not give them the right to kick peoples doors in and silence a newspapers true voice”.

Campbell angrily frowned and stammered:

“But Sir…”

Before he could finish the person on the speakerphone barked:

“Enough and stop fucking frowning just do it, Understand?”

Campbell looked up at the roof in anger, sighed and replied:

“Sir”

As the phone clicked and went dead, Campbell looked around at the rooms occupants and after a few seconds snapped:

“Robinson, We have no choice bring to order Operation: Independent Flower”

A man at the end of the table nodded withdrew a sleek black mobile from his suit pocket and dialled a number it rang for a few seconds before answering:

“Its CIU, Activate all Assets to Second Programme in Nation Delta, Authorization Barronia-Robinson-Two-Beta-Omega”

New Misenae, Evening:

Kitty Wainwright looked out across the Barronian Capitals skyline from the relative safety of her hotel rooms balcony. She looked down at the streets below her, for a split second she smiled and forgot about the instability that seemed to be ripe within the nation. However she soon received a jab back into reality as two Civil Protection Patrollers zoomed down the street below her, their sirens whaling as they went. She watched as the people in the street seemed to tense as the Patrollers went by their fear clear even from her firth floor vantage point. Kitty sighed and wondered what had happened to the Barronians to allow themselves to get to this point. A nation strangled by Civil Defence Acts and “Wartime Freedoms” even Kitty a women with joint Vetakan-Barronian citizenship had been approached and even temporally detained by the Civil Protection Teams it was only after the intervention of ObServ probably on the request of VSIS that Kitty had been released and returned to the Vetakan Embassy.

Kitty whilst officially was a security contractor working for the Vetakan Embassy was in actual fact a Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service (VSIS) Operative working the Services New Misenae station. The Barronian nations actions and specifically its treatment of foreign citizens had deeply unnerved and concerned the Tribal Council of Vetaka and now with Barronia’s Civil Protection Units terrorising Delian League and even Vetakan Citizens the Leagues various member nations where expressing concern and desire to protect those they had obligations to. As a result with Vetaka having such close knit relations with Barronia, its Military and its Intelligence Service the responsibility of gathering valuable intelligence on just what was going on within Barronia fell to Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service.

Kitty downed the remainder of her champagne glass and moved back into her hotel room, sitting down at the oak desk she opened her smooth, sleek and silver laptop. Logging on it took her less than 2 or 3 minutes to connect to the secured OBSAT Network which she would use to send her daily intelligence report streaming across the world to a secured server within La Roca in Northern Vetaka which would then transfer the report to the General Headquarters of Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service in New Theeb via a serious of bounces and re directs which would send it around the world in order to throw any hackers and piggy backers off. Once complete she closed the laptop and replaced it in its safe before making for the door and her date with a charming young Damiran she had met at a bar a few days prior.


Doulton Multi Story Carpark, New City, New Theeb, Vetaka:

The Black Range Rover Vogue sped through the empty multi storey car park with ease its power steering made it extremely simple and somewhat enjoyable for its driver to climb the various levels of the carpark and eventually immerge on the open air roof top of the concrete building. For the first time the Vogue with its tinted windows and classified plate was not alone a second Vogue equally as black and tinted sat park in the far corner reversed over two spaces it sat motionless. The first Vogue flashed the second with its headlights as it approached and eventually came to a halt before it. As it did so four people exited from the second Vogue they where all dressed in suits with trench coats thrown over them to counter the Vetakan Winter. Smiling three people appeared from the first Vogue approaching each other the two groups converged and embraced each other as old friends. As the friendly chatter subsided the mood became more tense as one man with a thick New Theeb accent spoke:

“Good to see you Mr Carmichael, I wish we could meet under better circumstances”

A second man spoke with a slight Barronian flair:

“What ever do you mean?”

The first man sighed, took a leather bound file from one of his aides handed it to Carmichael and replied:

“Roger these are Photographic Stills taken this morning in New Misenae by a Wagdogian Journalist. Not only do they show your Civil Protection Lads being rather rough with citizens of a Delian League Nation they also demonstrate how hard it is for a tourist to take pictures in your households capital. Seeing as we had to smuggle these out via VSIS OBSAT as opposed to the conventional post”

The first man whom was Dave Peeler the ObServ Contact within VSIS allowed his words to register before continuing:

“The photographs are your Civil Protect Lads kicking the door in of a Damiran Bank Manager, hardly a Waldenburg Fanatic or a Hegemonic Intelligence Operative, So I ask you what the fuck are you guys doing? Is their a power struggle in your household we need to be aware of? Something we can support you on?”

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc61/LordBelacqua/NationStates/Imperial%20Barronia/ODC.png

Office of Telegraphics
52nd Floor
Diplomitas Building
New Misenae

Nations of the Delian League:

It has come to my attention that many of you have expressed concerns about the treatment of Delian League citizens in our nation. I can wholeheartedly act to reassure you that all citizens are being treated within the confines of Barronia law, and that citizens are free to leave and travel as they wish.

Civil Protection's methods are necessary in wartime - yourselves must certainly realise the importance of effective and thorough policing in wartime, and in the situation of this war, we must be wary of foreign citizens - these measures would not be in place if they were not necessary.

Your measures to evacuate are duly noted, and we will endeavor to make the transition to vessels for Delian League citizens as easy as possible.

We appreciate your co-operation in this matter. The designated port for ships collecting Delian League citizens is Portsmouth. The shipping facilities there should be ample.

Yours,

Amelie Carpentier-St Claire
Magistrate
Foreign and Colonial Office

A knock at the door - 3 sharp, businesslike knocks. For a Delian League citizen, these would now signify the three scariest sounds of their time in Barronia.

Outside the door stood 3 Civil Protection operatives, ready to "escort" you to the port. This basically consisted of 15 minutes to pack everything you needed to, before being placed on a bus waiting outside - normally commandeered from the local prison, they would be inevitably uncomfortable, dirty, and smelling of urine. Having visited enough houses to fill the bus, you would be transported to the nearest freight station - the bus would board the train and the journey, bumping and dangerous, to Portsmouth would begin.

Upon arrival, the Customs and Excise warehouse had been converted - nearly a square kilometer of warehousing now full with beds, showers and chemical toilets. The Delian League citizens would be housed here until their ships arrived, under armed guard and with little access to the foreign world.

---

New Theeb Car Park

The silver saloon had just one person in it: Roger Carmichael, the man to talk to when it came to Vetakan-Barronian VSIS-ObServ

"Well, that's just dandy Mister Peeler, but allow me to refresh you. Number one, that's plastic explosive - a milder form of Semtex, to be exact, and they're blowing off the door. Number two, in case you hadn't noticed, Barronia is at war. Now, let me tell you something. The day Vetaka is under attack hour after hour with nothing but terrorist attacks by an unseen and untraceable enemy, then you can come and lecture me about our methods. Got it?

Now, let me express this. I'm not here to bandy words about how my nation polices itself - I don't tell your police force how to do it's job, don't you tell mine how to do theirs. That man had been implicated in bankrolling terrorists, and we did what we had to to get to the truth. His house was cleaned and he'll be compensated. Where, exactly, is the problem?"

Nova.
The Principality of Damirez.

”Can you believe this?” the Barronian reply was the talk of the day at the Foreign Ministry, ”We appreciate your concern, but our country, our rules, so piss off!” one particularly angry employee commented on the diplomatic message. ”They could just shove the people into tin boxes and throw them at sea for all we know!”

”You're out of line there sport,” the angry muttering were interrupted by another employee, obviously annoyed by the lack of professionalism. ”You have to imagine what's happening over there right now. They're probably terrified over the terrorist attacks and the war,” it remained unsaid that the Barronians most likely felt what the Damirans did not so long ago during the dreadful Alfegan crisis, ”And it's no reason for us not to do our jobs!”

”Be that as it may,” the relative insignificant department received an unexpected visit from the Foreign Minister, Emilian Davout, ”Those are still our citizens whose rights they're abusing and it's still our duty to defend them,” there was no need for him to recall them this, ”For when words fail, bullets fly,” he spoke those words with sadness, ”And we all know where that leads.”

The words were nothing fancy, not one of the speeches he held at meetings or the carefully crafted sentences he used at meetings with various foreign dignitaries, but they were enough to settle down the mood of the room and set back the employees back to their original tasks and not debating the Barronian declaration.

”Yes sir!” the firm reply brought a smile to Davout's face, even as his secretary tapped him gently on the shoulder.

”You needed that as much as they did sir,” she smiled knowingly, having worked with the man even before his appointment in the office, perhaps even from the beginning of his career in politics, a figure as common next to Davout as Librescu's own secretary was to the president.

”I think I did, I think I did,” he didn't try to deny it. The current situation although different was enough to bring back bad memories of a crisis not long ago concluded, ”Do you remember ever being like that? Expressing your views so bluntly without being afraid just who might hear them?”

”I can say I do sir, I can't say I do” she smiled, a sad smile at it as they headed back to their offices, intent on cracking down on the current problem before it escalated.

--

In Barronia, the effects of the government's statement were already felt by the League citizens. More and more citizens were rounded up and transported to Portsmouth in overcrowded buses and some of them were rather worse for wear by the time the travel ended. The embassy did all it could to calm down the citizens, but as more and more reports about the 'rides' the Barronians offered reached the ear of the ambassador it was all but clear that calming the people wasn't going to be that easy.

In Portsmouth the evacuation had already started. There weren't enough ships to transport all the League citizens in the city, but more and more ships arrived to the port and even a few Barronian cruise ships were acquired for this reason by an unknown company although Embassy officials could witness that Iulius Belisarius hadn't left the phone for hours at a time, at times shouting, at others just dictating orders. Some even claimed they heard them say something that from him sounded impossible ”I'm turning in my brother,” the misunderstandings between the two brothers well known between the various circles the two brothers frequented.

And all this time, closer and closer to the Barronian waters, League Battle Groups approached, with lighter ships already rushing to escort the evacuees. For the League officials this was already a war zone and it was imperative that the refugees benefited of proper protection. Tensions were already high and any misstep or incident involving the civilians was most likely to lead to an even greater crisis.

There weren't all that many citizens of Lamoni in Barronia, but even they felt the iron hand of Barronian law enforcement. A Lamonian IT technician suffered a major concussion from the rough treatment that he received from CP at his workplace. He had not been resisting arrest; he had just been too stunned by events to get down on the floor when ordered to do so by CPs.

He was treated at a hospital for his injury; and word of the incident reached the Lamonian government.

Like other DL leaders, President Stinson's initial reaction to the incident was white hot anger. This was gradually replaced with a more political 'crisis mode' as he started to calm. With the rest of the cabinet, it was decided that all Lamonian citizens would join the League evacuation of Barronia; and that a sternly worded note of the type that President Stinson knew generally accomplished little was to be dispatched to the Barronian government. Lamonian officials would be flown to Barronia in order to help calm the League citizens as they were evacuated, chief among them Foreign Minister Tanya Ley. As was well known in international circles, harming a major government official would be a casus belli, a reason for war.

---

Foreign Ministry of the Free Republic of Lamoni

To: Amelie Carpentier-St Claire
Magistrate
Foreign and Colonial Office
Barronia

In light of the suffering endured by Lamonian citizens by Barronian CPs, all Lamonian citizens will be ordered to join the Delian League evacuation from your nation.

Realizing that Barronia is currently in a state of war, it is our hope that all remaining League citizens in Barronian territory will be safely conducted to the harbor at Portsmouth, where they can be evacuated to the closest Delian League nation. To this end, Lamonian merchant ships will be steaming for Portsmouth, in order to assist with the evacuation of League citizens.

Finally, we shall be sending a delegation from our government to asses, and hopefully calm the situation in Barronia, and I shall personally head the delegation.

Signed,

Tanya Ley
Foreign Minister
Free Republic of Lamoni

---

A copy of the message was also dispatched to Damirez. If something were to happen to Foreign Minister Ley while in Barronia, Damirez would be the League nation best equipped to handle the situation.

OOC: LS, you might want to TG either Barronia or Damirez for that.

TRAVEL WARNING
Greater Economic Union of New Manth
Denomination of Foreign Diplomacy

September 01 2008

The Denomination of Foreign Diplomacy strongly urges Manthian citizens to carefully consider the risks of traveling to Pan-Arab Barronia.

There is an ongoing security threat due to the presence of terrorist groups within the nation, several of which may be affiliated with the Waldenburger Church. Some of these groups may target foreigners living in or visiting the country.

Some elements of the Barronian regime and the population remain hostile to foreigners, including Union citizens. As a result, Manthian citizens may be subject to harrassment or arrest while traveling or residing in Barronia. Manthians of Barronian origin should also consider the risk of being targeted by the authorities before planning to travel to Barronia.

Recently, Barronian authorities have stepped up official actions against foreigners of all nationalities, in some cases detaining and holding them on various charges, including terrorism, espionage, and posing a threat to national security. Parts of the country are under martial law and Manthian citizens may also be targeted by Barronian military personnel or state-sponsored paramilitary organizations. Some authorities may single out citizens of Delian League nations for harrassment or arrest.

The Greater Economic Union does not have diplomatic or consular relations with Barronia and therefore cannot act as a protecting power or provide consular services to Manthian citizens in Barronia. The Damiran government through its embassy in New Misenae has agreed to serve as protecting power for Manthian interests in Barronia. Manthians who travel or reside in Barronia despite this Travel Warning are strongly encouraged to register with both the Denomination of Foreign Diplomacy and the Damiran Embassy in New Misenae. Manthian citizens currently in Barronia who wish to obtain passage out of the country should contact the Damiran embassy, which can arrange for travel through the Delian League.

Manthian citizens considering travel to Barronia should also consult the current Worldwide Caution applying to member states of the League of Imperial Ocean-faring Nations, as well as the Denomination of Foreign Diplomacy's Specific Information brochure for Pan-Arab Barronia.

Foreign Ministry of the Free Republic of Lamoni

To: Amelie Carpentier-St Claire
Magistrate
Foreign and Colonial Office
Barronia

In light of the suffering endured by Lamonian citizens by Barronian CPs, all Lamonian citizens will be ordered to join the Delian League evacuation from your nation.

Realizing that Barronia is currently in a state of war, it is our hope that all remaining League citizens in Barronian territory will be safely conducted to the harbor at Portsmouth, where they can be evacuated to the closest Delian League nation. To this end, Lamonian merchant ships will be steaming for Portsmouth, in order to assist with the evacuation of League citizens.

Finally, we shall be sending a delegation from our government to asses, and hopefully calm the situation in Barronia, and I shall personally head the delegation.

Signed,

Tanya Ley
Foreign Minister
Free Republic of Lamoni

Christ, these people offer no respite. We're trying to save a nation, and all they can think about is Goddamn civil rights.

Amelie paced her office, the spacious expanse of wood and blue carpeting, pondering the move her office should make. An aggressive response and rebuke of the Lamonian minister would be seen as a guilty conscience, but the security requirements of keeping that minister here would be...inordinate.

Inordinate it is then. Besides, she'll understand if we need to keep her on the move.

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc61/LordBelacqua/NationStates/Imperial%20Barronia/ODC.png

Office of Telegraphics
52nd Floor
Diplomitas Building
New Misenae

Ms Ley

Whilst your visit is welcome, it is not recommended. The situation in Barronia is dangerous at best, and whilst we would do our utmost to ensure your safety, the cunning, skill, and sheer zealotry of those we would endeavour to protect you from means that it cannot be guaranteed.

Nonetheless, if you do insist upon coming, we recommend BAA Misenae Starsfield, some 100 kilometres south of New Misenae and a military station, is most likely the best place to set down. Your journey can be discussed from there.

Yours

Amelie Carpentier-St Claire
Magistrate
Foreign and Colonial Office

<snippage>

The Damiran movement was not unnoticed. ObServ's knowledge based spanned some terabytes, and the processing power required for the Overwatch system, kept in a chilled nitrogen atmosphere with it's constant repair crews and monitoring staff wandering the cavernous Server Hall.

It was in this room that Server 277356D-RND, the server dedicated to reading a group of patrolling destroyers, first picked up the large concentration of metalwork making it's way to Barronian waters. As the data passed through it's many processing cores, analysing and interpreting the data fed to it, it's heightened security protocols Engaging one of the many hard drives, it began recording what would soon be the most important event in Barronian history.

---

BMS Sunshine Venture

"ANOMALIES DETECTED, VECTOR 022 FROM CURRENT POSITION. INTERCEPT, IDENTIFY, CAUTERISE IF REQUIRED."

The Captain sent a confirmation signal back to the ObServ Deployment Centre, and began his transmission.

"Unknown collection of vessels, this is the BMS Sunshine Venture. You are approaching Barronian waters, and it is believed you are of threat to national security. Break into smaller groups of no more than 3 vessels, 10 kilometres apart...prepare to be boarded."

Nova.
The Principality of Damirez.

As expected by the Damiran government, reactions from various members of the Delian League weren't late in arriving. From simple warnings to carefully designed diplomatic interventions, the League was starting to act in regards of the Barronian 'crisis'. Already the evacuation brought rather disconcerting news back home, this time from the very people that left Barronia in a hurry, the first lucky ones that managed to board a flight out of the country and the public opinion was not exactly happy about what it heard. It was clear that given the influence of the public and that of numerous non governmental organization had, that Librescu's situation was not an easy one. The fear of a repeat of what was named the greatest Damiran disaster in recent history was making the people demand action, even though Librescu's words requested patience.

”The way things are going now...” it was in those circumstances that a debate between Librescu and one of his closest friends and supporters was taking place, ”The Senate's going to start demanding some action,” he expressed his concerns to Emilian Davout, minister of foreign affairs.

”There's no sense in precipitating things,” Emilian was obviously worried about the same issue, an official bill from the senate drastically limiting the freedom of choice the president and the cabinet had in the affair, ”It's not going to take us anywhere. We can solve this without resorting to the 'big guns'” for the Damiran diplomacy, the success in establishing the Delian League and bringing old enemies to the table as allies was severely offset, at least in Davout's view by the failures in the Alfegan crisis and the subsequent military intervention.

”A nation of talkers, huh?” it was a small, if still amusing, joke that Librescu allowed himself with Davout, the foreign minister's adversity to the military option and his horror at the massive League fleet well known amidst his inner circle, ”We're no pushovers Emil, we never were.”

”I know, but is it worth it to see blood flowing when there might be another option?” the minister asked, conviction obvious in his words.

”Sometimes,” and with these words Librescu felt old, older than he was, ”Even the best of intentions need the backing of a loaded gun,” looking over the Damiran capital, shrouded in fog, he finished his sentence, ”Let's just hope it won't be the case here.”

Near Barronian territorial waters.
DLN Dervish.

The Dervish was not the first ship to receive the message from the Barronians, but by virtue of rank, its captain was the one that had to deal with the incoming warning. In days long gone this would have been a burden like no other on the captain, directing and establishing the rules of conduit between the two, supposedly opposed, navies, but the wonders of modern technology made a conference with Fatima Al'Hamil only a couple of buttons away. Her reply, not unexpectedly, was firm. League ships were in international waters and no matter how paranoid the Barronians were, there was no way they would be allowed to board Delian Ships.

Once the matter cleared with Fatima, the captain took action. First a message was sent to the ships ahead, grouping them into much more malleable formations and then a reply was sent to the Barronian ships.

”BMS Sunshine Venture, this is captain Hubert of the DLN Dervish. Your request of boarding League vessels is hereby refused. We are in international waters, with a mission to escort evacuating League citizens. We are not in any way hostile towards Barronia or its citizens.”

The message once sent, the Barronians had the ball.

OOC My apologies for the delay. RL issues and all.

Ms Ley

Whilst your visit is welcome, it is not recommended. The situation in Barronia is dangerous at best, and whilst we would do our utmost to ensure your safety, the cunning, skill, and sheer zealotry of those we would endeavour to protect you from means that it cannot be guaranteed.

Nonetheless, if you do insist upon coming, we recommend BAA Misenae Starsfield, some 100 kilometres south of New Misenae and a military station, is most likely the best place to set down. Your journey can be discussed from there.

Yours

Amelie Carpentier-St Claire
Magistrate
Foreign and Colonial Office

Foreign Ministry of the Free Republic of Lamoni

To: Amelie Carpentier-St Claire
Magistrate
Foreign and Colonial Office

I understand about potential security issues that my visit will bring, but I still believe that the chance to resolve the crisis between your nation and the Delian League without bloodshed is worth any cost. Therefore, I will be shortly landing at BAA Misenae Starsfield.

Signed,

Tanya Ley
Foreign Minister
Free Republic of Lamoni

OOC: Sorry for my delay, RL issues, and new GF. :)

Doulton Multi Story Carpark, New City, New Theeb, Vetaka:

Carmichael was an arrogant, ignorant mother fucking bastard in eyes of Peeler, in truth Agent Peeler hated to work with him and on 5 consecutive occasions had requested transfer of assignments or positions within Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service and whilst opportunities and career development within VSIS where relatively easy to acquire for some unknown reason Peeler’s application had been constantly rejected. As he listened to the arrogance flow from the Barronians mouth he was forced to close his eyes and hold his tongue firmly between his teeth, he could feel his perfectly whitened teeth dig painfully into his small tongue. Eventually Carmichael fell silent and Peeler sighed whilst looking up at the sky, breathing deeply it took a lot of mind strength to keep his anger and extreme dislike of Carmichael under control eventually Peeler snarled:

“Mechanics of the Photographs aside, Persecution of Delian League citizens don’t you fucking dare stand before me and tell me Vetaka has never been in the position Barronia is within”

Peeler groaned and cracked his knuckles before continuing:

“Vetaka is suffered two separate failed rebellion attempts both masterminded by Swan, Vetaka has fought wars with Strator, New Nickslvannia, Zanski and Clandonia all of which failed. During which time VSIS was actively monitoring and trailing thousands of people around the world, Did you see us kicking the door in or as you so elegantly put it blowing off said door of some two bit crack head Clandonian student at New Theeb University? Did you see us sending in VPD SWAT Teams to round the Ennuisian Citizens living within Vetaka when we fought Mer Des Ennuis?” Did we cage them? Treat them as animals?”

Before Peeler could go on or Carmichael could reply, the ear piece of Peeler burst into life he rose his hand to his mouth to signal silence as he did so he pressed the ear piece ever closely to his ear with his other hand. Listening his face became one of anxiety he looked around at his comrades whom all looked as equally concerned, Peeler turned his back towards Carmichael and mumbled into his lapel fixed microphone a few minutes passed filled with intense conversation between Peeler and the mystery caller. Eventually Peeler turned back towards and gazed at Carmichael speaking into his Lapel as clearly as he could so the Barronian could hear him:

“Sir”

Peeler looked over his shoulder at his aides and barked:

“Fan Out, Defensive Perimeter”

As the trench coat covered Intelligence Operatives moved out they each drew silenced SP-45 Service Pistols, almost simultaneously a very sleek and stylish racing green Aston Martin Vanquish immerged atop of the empty car park coming to a halt before Carmichael’s Silver Saloon and Peelers Vogue. The polished Aston was followed by a Mitsubishi Shogun which also came to a halt before the already parked cars as soon as the massive Shogun had come to a halt 7 black combat fatigued men exited the 4x4 armed with M56 Rifles the heavily armed troops took up a tight defensive perimeter around the vehicles, as the troops took up positions a Black Pearce Weapons Inc Puma HC1 Helicopter appeared overhead it hung over the Doulton district relatively low and to any trained military eye the rotary wing aircraft was patrolling.

Eventually the commotion subsided and a man exited from the Aston he was a man both Peeler and Carmichael knew instantly, he was also a man both Spooks had not expected to meet yet alone meet atop of an empty Multi Story Carpark. The man was Supreme Honoured Parceltongue Rising Tiger, Operational Directive of the Tribal Council and directly below the Chieftain in terms of Policy and Command. Rising Tiger was a man whom had led Vetaka through thick and thin and along with characters such as Roxanne Wright, Georgina Lewis, Scarlet Rogers and Jason Barber had physically shaped the modern day Vetakan Landscape. Rising Tiger wore loose billowing Tribal Robes he beamed at both Spooks, looking around he chuckled before coming a to halt. Bowing to one knee before them both he chanted:

“I bow to no man but I bow to you”

Rising to his feet as quickly as he had knelt he shook both Carmicheal’s and Peeler’s hand firmly before speaking:

“Agent Peeler, Agent Carmicheal it is a pleasure to meet you both I have heard a lot about you from Director Campbell. So when I discovered your little meeting I had to stop by for a small chat, especially regarding the current disturbing situation within Barronia”

Rising Tiger a man whom according to Wikipedia had said was 45 didn’t look a day over 21, his beaming smile suddenly became stern, harsh and one that was moulded through a lot of experience in politics and its murky underworld. Like all good leaders his mere facial expression commanded respect even if one had a quarrel with the Vetakan Leader, he surveyed Agent Carmichael intently before continuing:

“Agent Carmichael I will not lie to you, to ObServ or the Magisterium of Barronia your treatment of Delian League citizens is simply unacceptable. Nothing short of an apocalypse provides justification for treating citizens especially Citizens of honoured nations the way the Civil Protection Teams have treated the Leagues people within your nation. I will not lie to you the Tribal Council is finding it increasingly difficult to defend your position in certain circles that Vetaka exists within. Vetaka will always attempt to support, promote and defend your nation like you do for us but your current activities are making that mutual policy extremely difficult to attain. I have always been truthful with you even when such truth has impacted negatively upon Vetaka if you continue this path or if you escalate it further, I don’t know how long the patience or the tolerance of the league will last before somebody starts calling for your blood, Barronia will always have allies, friends and brothers in Vetaka but I make this clear we are avid Delian League members and we will act accordingly”.

Before anybody could of made a reply Rising Tiger rose his hand into the air signalling for silence. He turned and looked out off the Car Park towards the old part of the capital as if he had heard something looking back at Carmicheal he smiled, sighed and spoke:

“I am afraid I must depart the press have tracked me down”

Sure enough a few seconds later a helicopter could be heard slowly getting louder:

“I bow to no man but I bow to you, I wish you well Agent Carmicheal, Advance Respect and Honour Sir”

Rising Tiger stepped back, bowed his head respectfully and turned on his heel. He quickly boarded the Aston Martin his bodyguards boarded their Shogun and with a roar the convoy sped away making for the exit. As the two immaculate and savvy vehicles sped away the approaching Helicopter which was a White Eurocopter the words “New Theeb Echo” emblazed in red thundered over ahead extremely low, so low that the Spooks where forced to hide the faces. The Eurocopter soon moved off leaving an uneasy silence to fall across the Spooks only broken by Peeler whom chuckled:

“Don’t worry old chum ill have the Commando’s use Semtex to blow the doors off and retrieve the photo’s from the Echo”

Smiling warmly Peeler reached into his pocket, retrieved a memory stick and handed it to his opposite number in ObServ:

“Your usual dose of Intelligence along with limited intelligence on Delian League Assets compliments of Director Campbell keep that under you hat as the League Intel is not authorised for release by the Tribal Council, I may not like you Carmichael but I do like your country, My daughter studies in New Misenae and I have old army friends living in Portsmouth”

Vetakan Defence Force Naval Ship (VDFNS) Intrepid, Ark Royal Aircraft Class Carrier, Operational Flagship of the Strategic Carrier Group “Delta Fleet”, 1379 Nautical Miles From Pan Arab Barronia, Exit Shipping Lane Omega-Sierra-Mike (OSM) Leaving Vetakan Defence Force Joint Military Base (VDFJMB) Flanders, Southern Honako :

The Ark Royal Aircraft Carrier the VDFNS Intrepid was the Vetakan Naval Defence Forces (VNDF) Ark Royal Class Flagship of its Class. It was also the current Operational Flagship of one the Vetakan Naval Defence Forces many strategic carrier groups, it was commanded by Admiral Edward Beckett whom was grandson of the infamous Vetakan Traitor of the Swanist Rebellion Supreme Admiral Beckett of the 3rd Vetakan Defence Force Joint Military Battlegroup. Admiral Edward Beckett was a true Vetakan through and through Hardworking, Diplomatic, Tolerant, Honourable and above all Loyalty coupled with determination he had quickly rose through the ranks of the Vetakan Navy. Military Life for Admiral Beckett hadn’t always been a success, for many years Beckett was bullied by his peers, superiors and placed under intense surveillance and security verification by Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service (VSIS). However Beckett persevered and shook off his fathers tainted shadow to become one of the most intelligent, strong, honourable and above all upcoming Naval Officers within the Vetakan Navy.

Beckett sat proudly in his Ready Room which lay adjacent to the Joint Operations-Bridge, he was so engrossed in the ships “General Operations Reports” (GOP) that when his ready room door slipped open he barely noticed a small blonde women standing in the presence, he looked up angrily only to mellow at the trully stunning girl before him, she was Operations Commander Lizzie Gordo Beckett’s closest friend off duty and his right hand man on duty. They had been together through thick and thin both on and off the battlefield it was a partnership clearly supported by the highest levels of the Vetakan Military every new command they had been given they had been given it together a rarity in Vetaka’s Navy.

Gordo smiled and leaned over the desk handing her superior a small Tablet PC he took it and inputted his fingerprint into a small fingerpint scanner in the corner of the screen, the machine whizzed and whirled as it did so Gordo spoke her voice calm and quiet:

“Level 1, Code Red, Burst Transmission from the Admiralty ”

As the small PC chimed in acceptance of Beckett’s fingerprint the Admiral merely nodded at his Seconds words he began reading intently. As he did so his hands started to shake slightly, the blood drained from his face, he sighed and handed the PC to the XO whom read it and had the same reaction. The silence that settled across them was only broken at first by the Admirals shallow breathing after a few minutes Gordo stammered her voice now etched in nerves and fear:

“Is the Admiralty serious, I knew things were not going smoothly in Barronia but this is a whole new level?”

The Admiral nodded as he read the message again he was dumbstruck, eventually he inputted his fingerprint again signalling to the Admiralty he had received and understand the message, he looked up at his XO managed a weak smile to which she returned the smiled. Rising to his feet he moved around his desk and out into the Joint Operations-Bridge his facial expression usually one of calmness was one of fear and sternness. His bridge staff many of them who had transferred with him when he took command of the Intrepid fell silent they all sensed their leader was disturbed and unnerved, they all watched and waited. Admiral Beckett shifted nervously under their gaze before rallying himself and beginning his voice whilst bathed in nerves was clearly etched in strength and respect:

“Helm alter course to 1-8-0, come to Fleet Speed 2. We have Flanders Control Clearance”

“Sir?” asked a somewhat puzzled Helmsman whom had initially had orders to lay a course for Vetaka


“Listen Up…… I have some disturbing news as of now we are at Defensive Condition 3, As of now we are no longer returning to Vetaka, As I am sure you have all been reading the Echo you will be all aware of growing tensions within Barronia and the subsequent treatment of League Citizens. As of now we are officially under orders to proceed to Barronia and support League Operations within the region furthermore we are ordered to intervene to protect and defend league ships, personnel, assets and above all citizens should we be required to, I realise what this means, I realise the potential implications, I realise that potentially I shall have to fire on the Barronian Naval Service but by grace of the gods we are Vetakan, We are the ones whom stand together and sail together when those around us run. We have our orders and our loyalties lie with the Admiralty and Council. Helm lay a course for Barronian Portsmouth, XO Defensive Condition 3 I want to be battle ready within 6 hours, Radar we are due to rendezvous with the “Omega Fleet” west of Haven. Intel Support keep a hawk eye on them via OBSAT Command co-ordinate with VSISGHQ and Peeler in New Theeb I want to keep this deployment out of ObServ’s ears for as long as possible, Are we go people?”

“Yes Sir” was the resounding reply from the Bridge Staff.

With that the Bridge burst into life relaying orders to various departments and ships across the fleet, The Admiral made for his ready room where he would co-ordinate with Command in New Theeb as well as brief his senior command staff across his fleet. The fleet slowly arced in a u-turn across the calm sea just outside of the massive Flanders military base. They sped up slightly and formed into an extremely tight defensive formation around the massive Intrepid Aircraft Carrier and its lone Danu Asura Battleship the VDFNS Fatima Al'Hamil named in honour of the Delian Leagues founding Admiral. The Danu Asura class battleship was the last class of battleship in active in Vetaka’s Navy it was also probably one of the last class of Battleships sailing the worlds oceans. “Delta Fleet” was a good two weeks sail from Barronia not to mention that they would be rendezvousing with the “Omega Fleet” where they would take on additional ships in the form of the Sword Beach Class Assault Carrier the VDFNS Swan-Lake which would support in potential evacuation of League Citizens. Along with the dedicated Specialist Intelligence Vessel (SIV) the VDFNS Resource which was a Interceptor Class Hull which had been refitted for the SIV role. The SIV was a new concept within the Vetakan Defence Forces the idea was that it would greatly improve the capacity and effectiveness of the OBSAT and DefenceNet Systems the SIV would act as mobile command centre for VSIS Operations within a battlefield environment, its current specification was classified and still within its trial period. Whilst the Vetakan Naval Defence Forces where both loyal and professional they where not without honour and compassion for years the Vetakan and Barronians had trained together, fought together and died together friendships had been forged and such friendships would now be tested on the chessboard of International Politics.

OOC: Pre Isolation! Woo Free Night!

International Waters

"Captain Hubert, I'm not here for games. You will remain in your current location whilst we await further reinforcements. Warships so close to our shores in this time of war, coupled with Maritime (Wartime) Resolution two-three-seven part "b" specifically allow me, by order of the Crown, to detain and search any vessel believed to be of threat to the Homeland. I repeat, remain in your current position."

The Sunshine Venture slowed, and moved herself into a broadsiding position - directly in the path of the Damiran fleet. A well-known Barronian "Halt and Desist" move, this was one of the more aggressive methods used by the Service.


Doulton Multi Story Carpark, New City, New Theeb, Vetaka

OOC: Damn lol. I was about to lay right into your policing methods V ;)

Carmichael sat stiff-lipped throughout Pearce's little speech, much unused to getting such a dressing down.

"There you go Peeler, now you're getting the idea - proper policing is all about putting the fear of God into these people. You should have learnt that by now."

Taking the stick, he made one last reply, he tried one more, empathetic response.

"I know about your daughter, Peeler. She's doing well. Ain't no Vetakans in trouble in Barronia, I've made quite sure of that."

The door was shut before Peeler could reply, the car soon roaring it's way to the exit.

---

http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc61/LordBelacqua/NationStates/Imperial%20Barronia/BarronianODC.png

Ms Ley,

We welcome your arrival. As ever, Royal Marines will be on standby to await your arrival, and immediate transfer by Diplomatic Train Carriage will be arranged for you.

Yours,

A. Carpentier-St Claire

OOC: Jolt ate my last post D:< so a short one for now whilst I try and remember what I wrote :(.

”Why am I not surprised,” the captain of the Dervish commented to those on his deck a sigh escaping his lips before he turned towards one of his officers. ”Status?” he asked as he started pondering his options. The orders were clear. Under no circumstances was he to allow the boarding of League vessels, it was a gross violation of international maritime law, as little respected as it was around the world and beyond that it was a military tabu. Under no circumstances were the League ships and crews to be jeopardized by allowing potential hostiles to board them. He could only hope that he could defuse this situation long enough for the 'cavalry' to arrive, making the Barronians double think their options.

”Enemy ship moving straight in our path, interception course assumed,” the fact that the officer used the word enemy wasn't missed by Hubert, many thought already that the only possible resolution for this affair was a conflict, but he wasn't to abandon hope so soon. Until the Barronians actually fired on League ships the attitude of the officer and those similar amongst the advancing league flotilla would remain just that, attitudes.

”Very well, if they want to broadside us, we'll do it the old way. I want an up link with the fleet, encrypted channel. Send the following orders,” in the next few moments the ships of the Delian League split and assembled into two groups, outflanking the Barronian vessels and continuing their trip, ”If they want to stop us with the hammer, we'll just evade them like flowing water,” the captain mused whilst worriedly looking at the screen depicting the position of the main fleet. ”Send the following message to the Barronians,” he finally decided and started talking.

”We apologize, but unfortunately we are unable to cooperate with you on this matter. League ships will not allow themselves boarded in international waters. As we have no intention of entering Barronian territorial waters we see no reason for concern on part of your government and as such do not understand the hostility you present to us. We are here only to escort our citizens out of your country. Nothing more, nothing less.”

Foreign Minister Ley's aircraft was approaching the Barronian coast, as scheduled. "Barronian control, this is LAF 03, requesting vector to BAA Misenae Starsfield." The pilot was a veteran in previous Lamonian conflicts, but he still didn't like flying into a potential war zone in anything less than an ASF. What he didn't know was that 400 Lamonian strategic bombers were being readied for any potential combat operations that may be needed. More forces were being prepared, but the bombers would get there first.

As for her part, Foreign Minister Ley was mentally reviewing what was known of the situation in Barronia. A wartime frenzy had led to paranoia against foreigners, and that had led to violence against foreigners by Barronian police officials. The DL had arranged for their citizens to be transported out of the country, but it was a slow process.

As her aircraft landed at BAA Misenae Starsfield, She had already gone through all of the Lamonian and League information on the crisis, and felt that she was as prepared as she was ever going to be. She knew that the security precautions would be tight, but she was also ready for that.

Pre Isolation Post.......

OBSAT-DefenceNet Briefing Room 2, Vetakan Defence Force Special Operations Command (VDFSOCOM) Vetakan Defence Force Joint Military Base (VDFJMB) Helmsdeep, 56 Miles North of Batkin City, Central Vetaka, Nova:

“Command has made it crystal clear as to what it wants and how it wants to get it, I’ll be frank my briefing with Supreme General Hammond, Supreme Operational Commander Jack O’Neil and Parceltongue Rising Tiger was extremely tense. I’ve also received a considerably large and in depth briefing from that damned Twat of a Spook, Peeler.” spat Colonel Adrian Dempsey, Commanding Officer of 101 Commando Regiment of the 1st Vetakan Army across the dimly lit table.

“Peeler?” enquired Captain Francis Garvey over his freshly squeezed Orange Juice.

“VSIS-ObServ Liaison, he facilitates Vetakan Intel’s dealings with the Barronians. A post he has tried to leave 5 times” spoke Agent Abdulla Husain 101 Commando’s VSIS Attaché.

“What are the Objectives?” enquired Major Mary Ashkenazi whom had her head buried in VSIS & Foreign Directorate Reports.

Lt Colonel Laurence Fox chuckled at the question before making his usual cheeky reply:

“Typically Vetakan, Complicated and Impossible, Primary Objectives are to reinforce an already beefed up VDF Diplomatic Guards Deployment at the Embassy in New Misenae. Evaluate Security and Evacuation Arrangements for the Ambassador and Diplomatic Staff, Develop a potential evacuation plan for all Vetakan and Allied Civilians from a secured Capital LZ in co-ordination with Allied Special Forces. Finally to utlise the Capital LZ all be it under fire to evacuate and secure the Barronian Royal Family, Top Political Figures and Senior Military Figures to either Wagdog or Vetaka.”

“Another day at the office then” chuckled Captain Garvey.

“Secondary Objectives?” again enquired the stern Major Ashkenazi whom had now turned her attention from the reports to a HD Screen at the head of the room which was cycling through Classified materials relating to Barronia.

“Support where possible any and all Allied Operations within New Misenae and the surrounding areas” replied Lt Colonel Fox

“Command realises this is a mammoth task and operation, to be honest that’s why General Hammond has tasked 101 Commando, 22nd Special Air Service and 160th Special Operations Aviation to the mission. Furthermore if it where possible Naval Command would of deployed the Strategic Assault Group instead of the Delta & Omega Carrier Groups from Flanders. Having said that both Delta & Omega are confident and capable not to mention under the Command of Admiral Barratt.”

Vetakan Special Operations where a fanatical bunch of Loyal Vetakans and where deeply touched by Admiral Barratts loyalty to the cause as a result he was deeply respected by the men and women of Special Ops. Colonel Dempsey whom had largely remained quiet shifted in his seat as he spoke:

“Ladies and Gents whilst the Objectives are complex the plan is simple enough, I have co-ordinated with Colonel Draven of 22nd SAS and we have agreed that 22 SAS will deploy to the Joint Naval Fleet inbound on Barronia and act as the Quick Reaction Force (QRF) from the VDFNS Swan-Lake. 101 Commando will be for now making the real deployments as a result here is the plan.” the Colonel stopped whilst he sipped his drink before continuing.

“1st Battalion, 1st & 2nd Platoons will be deploying through official channels to reinforce the Embassy Security Garrison in response to what the Foreign Directorate is defining as the “Terrorist Threat” within Barronia. However we have officially declared to the Barronians that you are in actual fact VDF Diplomatic Guards and not 101 Commando so please don’t go and fuck that up. This official deployment will for future command and control Sake be under the command of Major Ashkenazi, if shit hit’s the fan all Vetakan Special Ops operating within the Capital will be under the Field Command of Major Ashkenazi. Your flight leaves at 21:00 tonight so as soon as we are dismissed get your kit and troops together”

Major Ashkenazi along with Captain Francis Garvey nodded before the Colonel cheekily grinned and continued:

“Now the remainder of 1st, 2nd and 3rd Battalions will deploy with myself at 22 SAS to the VDFNS Swan-Lake ”

The Colonel stopped and allowed his words to register before continuing:

“However one thing we do have to advantage is currently the CP and ObServ’s harassment of League Citizens is confided to all members besides ourselves and the Wagdogians a situation Mr Peeler assures me will remain the norm for now. Furthermore the diversity of our operatives within 101 Commando allows us certain flexibility that other units don’t have in our disguise. Now away to your men, Good Luck, Lock and Load”

With that the men and women saluted the Colonel respectfully and filled out of the room making their way back to their various units whom where either relaxing or training on the massive city sized military fortification of Helmsdeep, nestled unusually in the rolling meadows and hills of Middle Vetaka.

Vetakan Defence Force Naval Ship (VDFNS) Intrepid, Ark Royal Aircraft Class Carrier, Operational Flagship of the Strategic Carrier Group “Delta Fleet”, 1001 Nautical Miles From Pan Arab-Barronia, 876 Nautical Miles West of Haven, Atlantic Ocean:

“Admiral To Bridge” came the XO’s voice over the PA System across the massive Carrier.

Admiral Beckett whom was mounting his usual weekly inspection of the Engine Rooms sighed and apologised to his Chief Engineering Officer a tall Vetakan-Wagdogian by the name of Hans. Making his way through the bowls of the ship he received and returned Salutes and Greetings with his men and women subordinates as he went. The whole journey took 10 minutes before the Admiral finally entered the Joint Operations-Bridge of the Intrepid, sighing slightly he murmured over the usual chatter:

“Report?”

Operations Commander 1st Class Lizzie Gordo smiled sweetly and replied:

“Sir we have sighted and have begun to form up with the Omega Fleet, Admiral Condoson sends his regards”

Admiral Becketts expression and mood instantly changed, they could finally focus on the mission at hand and hopefully defuse a volatile situation brewing in Barronian. During his extremely in depth briefing with Supreme Grand Admiral Charles Hornblower it had been decided that Admiral Beckett would once the two fleets had converged become the Senior Commander of the two Admirals with Admiral Victor Condoson serving as Becketts second in command. Once the two fleets had become one they would be known as the “Delta-Omega Fleet” with the Intrepid acting as the Flagship of the combined fleet. It would be an impressive collection of Vetakan Naval Assets one that Beckett was eager to Command but one that he was hopeful he wouldn’t have to lead into battle against a navy he had served with during a “Officer Exchange”. Beckett was about to troop into his Ready Room when the doors of the Joint Operations-Bridge slid open and a man around 6ft2 entered, his hair was brown short and slightly greying, his eyes brown and extremely peicing, down the left side of his face was a large scar that ran from his cheek to his ear he was a menacing figure. He wore the uniform of a Regimental Colonel within the Vetakan Ground Defence Forces smiling as he entered the room he moved across the room and embraced the Admiral in a hug, greeting him like an old friend he stepped back before speaking:

“Greetings Admiral, it is an honour to be aboard your fine vessel”

The Admiral equally beaming chuckled before making his reply:

“Greetings Colonel, the honour is all mine, will you and your Commanders join me tonight for dinner?”

Colonel Adrian Dempsey nodded enthusiastically as he replied:

“Of Course, I must transfer to the Swan-Lake and consult with VSIS and 22 SAS but I should be completed for 18:00”

The Admiral nodded and merely replied his spirt, soul and mood clear lifted with the arrival of additional forces and old friends at his reply:

“Perfect”

As the Colonel trooped out of the room, Admiral Beckett turned to admire his Bridge Staff before he enquired:

“ETA on Barronian Main?”

Once again Ops Commander Lizzie Gordo smiled sweetly and mounted her reply as she did so her headset seemed to burst into life

“Once we have successfully formed with Omega we will be able to come to Fleet Speed 3, from their depending on the variables 3 or 4 days, I am also informed Sir, that yourself, Admiral Condoson, Colonel Dempsey and Colonel Sutton are required for an Emergency Briefing by Supreme Admiral Hornblower and Supreme General Sharpe. Unfortunately Sir it seems the Barronians have threatened the League Evacuation Fleet.”

Gordo allowed her words to register before continuing:


“Furthermore Sir, the Lamonian Foreign Minister has touched down in Misenae Starsfield it seems the Tribal Council wants contingencies drawn for her and her staffs potential extraction all be it under enemy fire, I must admit I see the Council’s point and position seeing as VADF Air Command reckons the Lamonians have strategic bombers on standby, I know id rather put a few bullets in the CP as opposed to bombing our innocent brothers and sisters across Barronian Main, Peeler will transfer the intel to the Colonel‘s as it comes in”

The Admiral somewhat distressed by this new information merely nodded before retreated to his ready room to prepare for his briefing with the Supreior Commanders of the Vetakan Defence Forces and to try to digest as much information as he could regarding the ever increasing volatile situation before him. The mission before him was a tough one this was Barronia, it wasn’t some faceless enemy, it was a nation Vetaka and especially its military held in high regard, to think of the Barronians as anything more than close Allies and Comrades was horrible. All the Admiral and his forces could do was to take courage, heart and do what ever they could to limit the ever approaching bloodshed.

An Extract From New Theeb Echo Website

Breaking News…………………..

Vetakan Security & Intelligence Service Raid Suspected Waldenburg Sympathising Terrorist Safehouses

18:04 (New Theeb Time)

Whilst details are so far sketchy at this hour the New Theeb Echo has received as yet unconfirmed reports suggesting that at approximately 15:55 this afternoon VSIS spearheaded by, elements of the Vetakan Defence Forces 101st Commando Regiment and supported by the New Theeb Police Departments Special Tactics and Rescue Squad (STARS) raided a total of 3 address across the New Theeb Metropolitan Area. Whilst no Agency or Civil Directorate has confirmed the reports it is believed that the 3 addresses where all possible safe houses of terrorist cells linked to the extremist wing of the Church of Walden burger.

We will bring you more on this story as information, details and reactions become available.

Photograph Taken By Rebecca May-weather, 15:50 at the corner of Maybank Road, University District, New City, New Theeb:

http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/00498/SNN0315AA-280_498872a.jpg

OOC: Bump

Foreign Minister Ley's aircraft was approaching the Barronian coast, as scheduled. "Barronian control, this is LAF 03, requesting vector to BAA Misenae Starsfield." The pilot was a veteran in previous Lamonian conflicts, but he still didn't like flying into a potential war zone in anything less than an ASF. What he didn't know was that 400 Lamonian strategic bombers were being readied for any potential combat operations that may be needed. More forces were being prepared, but the bombers would get there first.

As for her part, Foreign Minister Ley was mentally reviewing what was known of the situation in Barronia. A wartime frenzy had led to paranoia against foreigners, and that had led to violence against foreigners by Barronian police officials. The DL had arranged for their citizens to be transported out of the country, but it was a slow process.

As her aircraft landed at BAA Misenae Starsfield, She had already gone through all of the Lamonian and League information on the crisis, and felt that she was as prepared as she was ever going to be. She knew that the security precautions would be tight, but she was also ready for that.

"Lima-Alpha-Foxtrot Zero-Three, this is Tower. Proceed on your course, vectors to follow. Taxi to ramp Zulu, can't miss it."

Despite the events in the cities, Barronia did not stray from tradition one iota, and the grey clouds overhead, the smoke in the distance did not deter the Royal Marines band from beginning the Lamonian national anthem.

On the red carpet stood Amelie, her hair as business-like as it came in a tight bun. Her uniform (http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc61/LordBelacqua/NationStates/FemaleMagistratesUniform.png) was pressed to perfection, her two handservants having spent the best part of 30 minutes ensuring that there was not a spot or a crease where there shouldn't be. Her brooch shining, the emerald in the centre gleaming and perfectly cut, she stood, hands clasped at her waist in front of her.

Behind her, two Royal Marines captains stood, resplendant in their navy-and-white uniforms. Solar topees on their heads (as was the fashion at the time), they were stock still as they flanked her shoulders, their silken-gloved hands at their sides.

The sides of the red carpet housed two sections of Royal Marines, totalling 16 men in total. Dotted about the base, the rest of the company were patrolling, these 16 being handpicked to represent Queen and country to the visiting Lamonian minister.

Rail travel was a hugely overwhelming feature in Barronia, with high-speed track connecting most cities in 4-track-wide lines criss-crossing the country. Nearly all villages had some form of station, or were in close proximity to one, and rail travel was seen as one of the last refuges of the romanticised population.

The Diplomatic Train Carriages were exclusive to the extreme, normally designed for parties of diplomats travelling en masse from one city to another for whatever function. Featuring a plush full-length sleeping car with just 4 sleeping berths, hot and cold running water, full access to satellite and secure telephony services, international television, and, indeed, a bath! The dining car housed it's own baby grand piano, with a full-service kitchen and some of the best chefs Barronia had to offer. Lounge and bar cars were often included in the mix, offering some of the most exclusive luxury seen in the world. And all this at almost 150mph as the train made it's way through priority signals through the Barronian countryside.

”Why am I not surprised,” the captain of the Dervish commented to those on his deck a sigh escaping his lips before he turned towards one of his officers. ”Status?” he asked as he started pondering his options. The orders were clear. Under no circumstances was he to allow the boarding of League vessels, it was a gross violation of international maritime law, as little respected as it was around the world and beyond that it was a military tabu. Under no circumstances were the League ships and crews to be jeopardized by allowing potential hostiles to board them. He could only hope that he could defuse this situation long enough for the 'cavalry' to arrive, making the Barronians double think their options.

”Enemy ship moving straight in our path, interception course assumed,” the fact that the officer used the word enemy wasn't missed by Hubert, many thought already that the only possible resolution for this affair was a conflict, but he wasn't to abandon hope so soon. Until the Barronians actually fired on League ships the attitude of the officer and those similar amongst the advancing league flotilla would remain just that, attitudes.

”Very well, if they want to broadside us, we'll do it the old way. I want an up link with the fleet, encrypted channel. Send the following orders,” in the next few moments the ships of the Delian League split and assembled into two groups, outflanking the Barronian vessels and continuing their trip, ”If they want to stop us with the hammer, we'll just evade them like flowing water,” the captain mused whilst worriedly looking at the screen depicting the position of the main fleet. ”Send the following message to the Barronians,” he finally decided and started talking.

”We apologize, but unfortunately we are unable to cooperate with you on this matter. League ships will not allow themselves boarded in international waters. As we have no intention of entering Barronian territorial waters we see no reason for concern on part of your government and as such do not understand the hostility you present to us. We are here only to escort our citizens out of your country. Nothing more, nothing less.”

"Captain?"

"Target the Dervish. Prepare all hands to fire full effect. Weapons Officer, you know the drill."

"Aye Captain."

Amber alert sounded across the vessel as the naval rifle swung herself into position, settling comfortably on the Dervish. Whilst the gesture was largely symbolic, it's purpose was anything but - the Captain's priority was to neutralise all threats to the homeland, and the Dervish was such a threat. He was under no illusions - his actions had likely alerted the Damiran naval headquarters and more ships would inevitably be on the way. The Dervish would hail, either voluntarily or otherwise.

When Foreign Minister Ley stepped off of LAF-3, she was dutifully impressed by the display of pagentry that was being performed before her.

She walked down the airstairs towards where the two Marines and the dignified looking woman were waiting, (passing between the Marine honor gaurds) as the strains of "Lamoni Motherland, we love thee" were playing. When she reached the woman who looked to be n charge, the Foreign Minister stated, "I bring you greetings from the Free Republic of Lamoni. As a member nation of The Delian League, I also bring greetings from the seat of the alliance on Delos."

The diplomatic charm and proceedural manueverings had begun.

”Status?” the voice of admiral Al'Hamil was urgent, she had lifted the self imposed radio silence and the advantage it offered for this transmission.

”It's getting closer to the boiling point,” captain Hubert reported, his eyes never leaving the bridge and his radar officer, ”I suspect they're unaware of the scale of the operation we're conducting, but they're pretty adamant about keeping us out at this stage,” his voice showed no sign of the concerns he had for his ship and crew.

”In international waters no less,” Fatima was irritated, for her this was a pointless escalation of what was supposed to be a simple pick up operation. ”Let's just hope miss Ley manages to get to them,” it was not a secret to anyone in the fleet by this time that a Lamonian representative was conducting, or rather said attempting to conduct, negotiations to end the current crisis on the behalf of the Delian League. It was more of a secret thought that the minister's well being was a personal interest for quite a number of influential people rather than a professional interest, she dreaded to think what would happen if she got hurt in any way, already there were many asking for more solid retribution to be taken against the Barronian government in light of their actions, ”If not, we'll just do what we have to do.”

Hubert nodded grimly at her words, he knew what the worst possible outcome scenario was and he had no desire to see it happening, his orders were still the same, but he could feel the pressure mounting already and the gesture of the Barronian ship only added to this, ”Yes, I know, let's just hope that what we have to do is just escort those civilians out of here.”

The message had two objectives, one to transmit heavily encrypted data to the Dervish and second, perhaps more important to show the Barronians just what was coming, a bit of pressure to make sure that there were no underhanded tricks to be had. A risky stratagem, but the League had nothing to hide. It was not here to invade or conquer, it was here just to retrieve it's people. Once the transmission ended, Hubert started talking to his crew, orders quickly issued and executed.

”If they want a party they'll have to try harder,” with those words the Dervish continued its dance around the Barronian craft, increasing its speed whilst another ship was ordered to link up with it.

Operations Room 3, Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service General Headquarters (VSISGHQ) St Edwards Complex, New City, New Theeb Metropolitan Area, New Theeb, Vetaka, Nova:

Operations Room 3 lay deep below St Edwards Complex in the various sub surface labyrinths below the headquarters building. The room was a dimly lit place the only lighting came from low level lights and the various HD Screens and monitors dotted around the room, the room was dominated by the massive HD Screen at the head of the room. It was currently displaying nothing but grey colour, the pixels doing an exceptional job of displaying the different shades of grey within the mass, around the border of the grey body where various small charts displaying what looked like wind speed, temperature, co-ordinates and time. Dotted around the room at smaller flat screen HD Personal Computers men and women dressed in VSIS Military Uniforms worked fevously at the leadership of an elder women of around 55 who had a rather pert bosom for her age, her hair was white and her eyes a piecing hazel, she sighed before speaking allowed:

“OBSAT frigging Space Command! What twat gives an Intelligence Recon Operation a Spy Satellite with a faulty Caswell Radar Unit?”

She groaned slightly and was clearly syking herself up to snatch a phone up and roar at the OBSAT Space Commander Watch Officer just as an Operative behind her began speaking:

“OBSAT Spy Sat Alpha-Omega-Nina-Zula transferring to our control stand by”

The room fell silent before the operative went on:

“Griffin Security Protocols Confirmed, Link Up Confirmed, We have control”

The greyed leader was Lt Commander Doris Gorgons of Vetakan Security and Intelligence Services newly created Delian League Intelligence Unit or VSISDLIU as was more easily referred to as within the Vetakan Intelligence Community, the unit had been formed to better simplify, co-ordinate, exchange and utilise intelligence between the various member nations of the League. Although prior to League membership VSIS actively maintained Officer exchanges with numerous members state Intelligence Agencies such exchanges varied in orgin the formation of the unit meant their was a constant team working to further Vetaka’s commitment to the prosperity of the League and its indirect collective of citizens. Lt Commander Doris grinned and bust into life:

“Excellent bring the Caswell Radar online, lets seem how Foreign Minister Ley is doing on the ground, make sure”

“Ma’am” came a number of scattered replies across the room.

“Rotating Sweep Parameters, Adjusting Position and Course to match” announced the Computers female monotone.

After a few seconds the grey picture flickered to present a whole new image of an air field/port complex Doris seemed to eye it lovingly as an operative made a general announcement:

“BAA Misenae Starsfield, Activating Satellite Defence and Stealth Systems”

Doris just nodded as she spoke:

“Match Ley’s Aircraft Transponder with a position?”

“Stand By” spoke an Operative from over her shoulder

A few more seconds past before the picture flickered and changed as it invariably zoomed in on a stationary aircraft, as it did so the computers female monotone made another announcement:

“Adjusting Elevation, Adjusting Rotational Sweep Angle, Adjusting Course and Orbit, To Match”

Doris nodded her appreciation before announcing:

“Excellent well at least we have the Plane, Now where is Ley?”

An Female Operative behind her looked up from her computer and spoke:

“I have her moving along the Red Carpet well I think its her, Barronia’s typical and most respectful mannerisms are really making this so much more difficult than it need be, Can’t the Foreign Directorate see if Ley has some sort of Transponder or a bit of kit we can track?”

Vetakan Defence Force Naval Ship (VDFNS) Intrepid, Ark Royal Aircraft Class Carrier, Operational Flagship of the Strategic Carrier Group “Delta Fleet”, 799 Nautical Miles From Pan Arab-Barronia:

“Admiral Sir, Receiving a Delian League Priority 1, Code Amber Message, From League Command on Delos” shouted the Comms Officer over the hustle and bustle of Joint Operations-Bridge.

The Admiral whom was busy conversing with his Sonar Operator looked over just as Operations Commander Gordo swept past the Comms Officer taking the small Tablet PC the Officer held out which now contained the message, moving across the Bridge Gordo swiftly handed the device the Admiral whom inputted his Fingerprint confirming not only his identity but also that he had received the message. The device buzzed its acceptance and began to display the message, reading intently the Admiral fell silent for a few minutes before again inputting his fingerprint signalling to Delos that he had understood the message and its implications. Returning the device to Gordo he cleared his throat and announced:

“Delos has broken Radio Silence with the fleet it seems the Barronian Maritime Service is really cranking up the heat, which is in turn causing a lot of heated exchanges between various Top Dogs across the league. BMS Sunshine Venture led by an old friend of mine Captain Hubert is threatening action against the Dervish if they continue course, Whilst the politicians are hoping Minister Ley can work some magic it seems the Admirals are getting itchy fingers. Admiral Al'Hamil is asking if we can increase our speed and take any short cuts?”

“Officer of the Watch, Increase speed, Bring the fleet to the fastest speed we can safely and confidently maintain, No Fuck Ups” ordered Gordo

“Yes Ma’am” came a distant reply.

Turning to face the Admiral the XO screwed her face up slightly before replying:

“We are taking the shortest route all things considered, we could knock a few hours off I suppose via Haven but Supreme Admiral Hornblower was insistent we avoid the region, Furthermore altering course now for Haven would result in us having to slow considerably to safely navigate the busier shipping lanes, I recommend we maintain course”

“Agreed” was the simple reply of the Admiral

With that the fleet increased its pace slightly some of the ships where naturally fast movers whilst some invariably the large combatants where not and subsequently it would depend on how well their Engineers could manage their engines to ensure they where not damaged or worse, in all the Dervish would have to survive and the diplomats would have to work some magic until at least the “Advance Guard” could arrive.



More Guards Deployed to Beseiged Embassy

http://kalaniosullivan.com/KunsanAB/8thFW/Pics/CH-47Chinook019.jpg
Photo: Classified Source, Obtained from VDF High Command

Page 22, New Theeb Echo (World Edition), Vetakan Embassy, New Misenae

The Foreign Director Bridget Smith has today confirmed that an additional two platoons of Vetakan Defence Force Diplomatic Guardsman are to be deployed to the Vetakan Embassy within the Barronian Captial of New Misenae. Director Smith said that “in response to the ever worsening security situation within the city (New Misenae) the Tribal Council and thus the Foreign Directorate had a duty of moral care and protection to the Vetakan Ambassador and the Diplomatic Mission to Barronia”.

Our reporter at the Embassy within central New Misenae confirmed that at approximately 07:34 hours New Misenae local time a fleet of approximately 3 Vetakan Air Defence Force (VADF) Helicopeters consisting of 1 Attack Helicopter and 2 Chinook Transport Helicopters arrived above the Embassy and deployed a considerable number of troops and supplies, with an estimated head count of 60 to 65 People. Whilst Director Smith refused to comment about the deployments nature or its operational mandate it is suspected the contingent will compliment ongoing security operations within the embassy complex itself as well as support ongoing and increasing Barronian Security operations within the area of the Barrronian Capital where the Vetakan and Wagdogian Embassies are located.

At the time of print no further comment on the subject was available from the Tribal Council, Foreign Directorate, Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service or Vetakan Defence Force High Command. The considerable increase of grass root strength is being seen as a sign by most security analysts to be a “Red Flag” to the Barronian Government and Security Forces which collectively are incapable of stopping or least slowing the attacks.

At the League headquarters in Delos, a random officer in the Lamonian Intelligence Agency (LIA) walked with purpose towards the office of the VSIS liaison. The officer had a sealed diplomatic note to present to the liaison, but the officer himself didn't know what the note contained.

Reaching the office of the VSIS liaison, he placed the sealed note on the liaison's desk, and said, "This note is for you and your superiors in the VSIS. My superiors in the LIA have directed me to give you this note, and leave you in privacy to read it. Needless to say, I was never here, and that note doesn't exist. Good day, sir." With that, the LIA officer left the room, just as he had been instructed to do; leaving the VSIS liaison in privacy.

When the VSIS liaison opened the note, they would find that it said the following.

---

Lamonian Intelligence Agency
EYES ONLY

To: VSIS Liaison, Delos
From: Director-General Chun

To the VSIS Liaison on Delos,

Since Vetaka has a base in Pan-Arab Barronia, we feel that Vetaka will be in the best position to rescue her should something go wrong with her mission to Barronia.

Foreign Minister Ley is carrying a small transponder, which will allow VSIS to keep tabs on her location. The frequency used is 3.19 MHz. The government of the Free Republic is hopeful that Foreign Minister Ley's mission might be a sucess, but we would feel better if a VSIS team was on standby if something were to go wrong.

Signed,

Edward Chun
Director-General
Lamonian Intelligence Agency

When Foreign Minister Ley stepped off of LAF-3, she was dutifully impressed by the display of pagentry that was being performed before her.

She walked down the airstairs towards where the two Marines and the dignified looking woman were waiting, (passing between the Marine honor gaurds) as the strains of "Lamoni Motherland, we love thee" were playing. When she reached the woman who looked to be n charge, the Foreign Minister stated, "I bring you greetings from the Free Republic of Lamoni. As a member nation of The Delian League, I also bring greetings from the seat of the alliance on Delos."

The diplomatic charm and proceedural manueverings had begun.

"Foreign Minister Ley, a pleasure to meet you. I trust this isn't too much? We always look forward to receiving Novan and Delian League representatives, no matter the occasion. Whilst the status of the nation makes life hard for everyone, I've pulled the necessary strings and we've been given priority clearance above the war traffic to Portsmouth. The railways are, of course, extremely busy nowadays, resources being concentrated in Misenae, what with the terrorist attacks and all. However, to the train, I think. Your bags will be delivered to the train, it's a day or so to Portsmouth - quite the distance. Were it not for the...situation, you would be welcome to land there direct. However, needs must, as I'm sure you understand."

The train was a reminder of romantic times past, the graceful curving roof bringing hints of old dutch design into play, the overall look maintaining an air of imperiousness and dignity once found only in the Pullman's of western Europe.

The navy blue scheme was forever adamant, with the main body of the cars coloured so, a red-and-white strip running down the body. In a cursive script, "Diplomatic Carriage" had been applied to the side with great skill, allowing for no imperfections. The carriage's bogeys had been maintained pristinely, shining the most brilliant black, as if they had come fresh from the wright's.

The interior was much the same - plush navy-and-silver carpeting and curtains adorned the inside, thick-cushioned burgundy chairs completing the look that spelled out the greatest luxuries Barronia could afford. Handservants stood by, silken-gloved guards on hand at the door with robotic stillness.

The hauling engine, whilst not immediately obvious, was diesel-powered, but with the appearances, one could almost mistake it for an armoured cousin of the famed Mallard, the record-breaking engine of times since passed. Unlike the Mallard, however, this model was capable of over 150mph, looks being entirely preferable to performance in the Barronia drive for aesthetics. Her military-issue dark grey stood out amongst the gleaming coaches, but nonetheless she was prepared to the outstanding criteria required.

Amelie led the Minister down the length of the train, the staff mostly being out on the platform for inspection.

"Flying colours, as ever, would you not say, Foreign Minister?"

The Engineers were in the uniforms of their train company, Atlantique - the black-and-red suit design being recognisable instantly. Impatient to return to their "baby", their hands were clasped behind their back to cease their fiddling. They offered as professional a smile they could muster, being much less diplomats than train drivers. They were soon dismissed, and went back to adjusting settings in the rather more futuristic cockpit of the Mallard lookalike.

Guards were soon passed, their double-brested suits and peaked caps, along with the twin flags tucked into the belt bowing to the ministers as they passed, before heading back into the vestibules to await the Platform Master's whistle, and to make their final checks on doors and connections and electronics.

The train was eventually boarded, allowing Foreign Minister Ley to find that all of her belongings had made their way to her own sleeping compartment. The panoramic view carriage, with it's platform at the rear allowing whoever should so desire a view of exactly where one had come from, and the views that couldn't be seen through the rather limiting windows.

As the train pulled away, beginning the journey to Portsmouth, the ministers took seats in the lounge car.

"Finally! I do rather resent the pomp and circumstance these days, though it is insisted upon somewhat. It is rather nice to get back and -" she flicked her pointed heels off, "- take one's shoes off, is it not?"

---BMS Sunshine Venture---

"God damnit, these people just don't understand the meaning of hail!"
"Your orders, sir?"
"Bring us within 100 yards, keep the rifle trained on the bridge of the Dervish. Radio through for a home defence squadron, we can't take this lot by ourselves. At least make sure that they know we're always going to be here. Full ahead! Catch us up with those damned Damiran slobs!"

The Sunshine Venture roared, the bow lifting as the engines forced the ship forward. It was not long before she was closing on the Dervish, her rifle moving with the the ship as it maintained it's contact on the bridge. The nearest Home Defense Squadron was at least a day's hard sailing away, and likely the Damirans knew it.

---

"A pity, really, that the Vetakans would do this. No matter, wave them through."
"Sir, this is entirely against protocol..."
"And so is the situation. Let the extra VSIS guards through. What harm can that many men do exactly?

"This is not too much, ma'am. To be perfectly honest, I have had worse arrivals in other nations. I suppose that I should clarify that Lamoni is not located in the region of Nova, but we are part of The Delian League. I am here as part of an independent Lamonian governmental initiative, but the entire Delian League is waiting for the results of our talks. These talks will determine future Delian League relations with Barronia, and I for one, hope that relations remain positive." Foreign Minister Ley knew that her trip here was important in more than one way, but brazenly setting the hook in front of the nose of Barronia would hep to ensure that Barronia knew that the kid gloves were off, and that things from here on were serious business indeed.

"It has been some time indeed since I have last taken a journey by train. I think that I shall enjoy it, if Barronian diplomatic trains are everything that the various Vetakans that I have met with said that they were. I understand that Barronia has an excellent working relationship with Vetaka; and if things go well, then Barronia could have such a relationship with Lamoni, as well. Shall we be off?" After displaying a big stick, Foreign Minister Ley had just dangled a carrot. Either Barronia would get a working relationship with Lamoni, or they would be subject to whatever punishment that the circumstances required. She hadn't been in Barronia for all of ten minutes yet, and she already hoped that it would not turn to war between the League and Barronia; she would hate to see such a proud nation destroyed.

The train looked very impressive. It seemed to hearken back to a day when designers had really tried to imbue their creations with as much aesthetics as possible while allowing their creations to run. The train seemed to have been more sculpted than built, and Tanya Ley was already wondering about what the interior would be like. She couldn't help but notice the words "Diplomatic Carriage" that had been painted on in cursive, with what looked like no room for error, along with the whole sense of the newness of the train.

When they were allowed inside of the train, the aesthetics only seemed to increase, with the plush navy and silver carpets with matching curtains, the well appointed cushioned chairs, and the exquisitely dressed handservants. Obviously, no expense had been spared with this method of conveyance, and it was meant to convey both elegance and power on the part of it's owners. There was no doubt that lesser people might well be intimidated by what this train represented, but after seeing many nations from the inside, the luxuries had lost their intimidation powers for the Foreign Minister. She could enjoy them, but she could also enjoy time with a lover, as well.

"I would say that this train is very well and comfortably appointed, and that it will be enjoyable to ride it to our destination. I would like to see my own sleeping compartment first, if you do not mind."

When they reached Tanya's sleeping compartment, she saw that her belongings had been placed there, and that all looked well. She would check the compartment for listening devices as a matter of course, but she didn't have to do that quite yet.

When the train had finally been boarded, Foreign Minister Ley met her guide in the lounge car, and sat down near her. Taking her own shoes off, she replied, "Indeed, it is a comfortable feeling to be able to take one's own shoes off. What is your position with the Barronian government when you aren't showing off the wonders of your nation to people like me?"

Level 7, “Intelligence Liaison” Delian League General Headquarters, (DLGHQ) Isle of Delos, Nova:

Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service (VSIS) General Liaison to the Delian League was a Vetakan Intel Relic known as Matthew Mills, Matt was 64 and was now less than 12 months from his retirement he had spent the majority of his life fighting for Vetaka, his deployment as General Liaison to Delos had been a way Mills could secure his 40 years service and subsequent a Bonus Pension that was the official reason unofficially Mills had refused to leave operational service with VSIS and with the formation of the League, VSIS wanted to send a Liaison with experience and pride one who could share his experiences and put Vetakan Intelligence in good stead with their League counterparts, he sat proudly in his leather executive chair, behind his large polished oak desk which was adorned with a HD Plasma Screen Computer, Keyboard, File Stand, Phone and a picture of his wife. Mills’s desk sat in front of a large window that looked out across the beautiful city of Delos. The VSIS Liaisons Office was particularly spacious it was like many offices around the world containing the usual corner plant, wall mounted photo’s and paintings. Mills was not alone either sat on a black leather sofa was Leanne Simpson, VSIS Intelligence Attaché to Supreme Honoured Parceltongue Rising Tiger, Simpson was a good friend of Mills and Mills had acted somewhat of mentor to the young Attaché throughout her life. They where both deep in conversation when the door burst open and the Lamonian Liaison entered unannounced and uninvited before either of them could speak the Liaison had deposited the note, delivered his message and left.

Mills and Simpson merely stared at each other before Mills snatched up a nearby letter opener and plunged it into the sealed envelope tearing it apart Mills read it allowed to his friend and comrade. Their eyes narrowed considerably at its contents, Simpson rose from her chair snatched up the Phones Receiver and dialled a number, it rang for a few seconds before it clicked without waiting for an answer the Attaché snapped:

“Go to a Secure Line, Level 5 Encryption…. Authorization Lima-Mike-Sierra-0-1-0... Transfer to St Edwards Complex… CIU”

She fell silent for a few moments before speaking again:

“This is Agent Simpson, Get me Director Campbell, I have urgent Intel from Delta Lima India ”

“Then Wake Him”

As Simpson proceed to inform VSIS Chief Director Campbell and Command Intelligence Unit (CIU) of the situation, Mills feverishly sent an urgent message to VSIS General Headquarters in New Theeb with the contents of the message, within a matter of minutes this latest intelligence would be transferred to where it would be most valuably utilised.

Operations Room 3, Vetakan Security and Intelligence Service General Headquarters (VSISGHQ) St Edwards Complex, New City, New Theeb Metropolitan Area, New Theeb, Vetaka, Nova:

“Ma’am” spoke an Operative as he thrust a tablet PC into the hands of Dorris whom made her thanks and inputted her Finger print into the small machine.

The small device chimed in acceptance as it displayed the message to which Doris read swiftly before looking up a smile on her face, clearing her throat she exclaimed:

“Seems the Foreign Directorate are not as useless after all, We have our bit of kit, Ley has in her possession a small Transponder. It doesn’t say what kind or how secure it is but bottom line is we have something to track Ley within a few meters”

She handed the tablet to one of her aides and merely barked in her usual harsh tone:

“Track It, Find Her, Get me Colonel Dempsey”

Vetakan Defence Force Naval Ship (VDFNS) Swan-Lake, Sword Beach Class Helicopter Assault Carrier, Operational Command Centre of Vetakan 101 Commando Regiment, “Delta Fleet”, 898 Nautical Miles From Pan Arab-Barronia, Atlantic Ocean:

“Colonel Dempsey, I have VSISGHQ on the line, Lt Commander Doris Gorgons” shouted a black combat fatigued Comms Officer from across the crowded Command Room.

The Colonel whom was also dressed in black combat fatigues turned and merely nodded to the Officer whom saluted and hit a button the laptop which put Doris’s greying persona on a wall mounted HD Screen. She smiled as sweetly as she could , saluted and cheekily began:

“Colonel Dempsey its been along time”

“Indeed it has Doris, How are the delights of VSIS and New Theeb?” replied Dempsey as he made his respectful salute.

“All are well Thank You, I have some good News Sir”

Doris looked away from the Screen presumably at one of her operatives before returning to the Webcam and gazing at the Colonel:

“I am currently tracking Minister Tanya Ley’s movements across Barronia, The Foreign Directorate seems to have made a few calls with the Lamonian Foreign Ministry, Our Liaison on Delos received details of a Transponder Ley has in her possession, we locked on to it about an hour ago, she is moving across Barronia in typical Barronian style aboard an Orient Express style Train”

Colonel Dempsey nodded and listened intently before replying:

“Destination?”

Doris smiled and continued:

“New Misenae, Exact location Unknown, I shall continue to monitor, I’ll CC the link up to you”

“Most Appreciated” smiled the Colonel as he made his salute.

Doris returned the salute before she disappeared from the screen and was replaced by a collage of various maps, pictures and photographs. The Colonel turned on his heel and began and was about to speak when a female monotone computer cut through him and announced:

“Receiving new operational intelligence, Acquiring Stream……. Verifying Source……. Verifying Griffin Security Protocols…….. STREAM ACQUIRED”

With that the large HD Screen at the head of the room flickered to show a pulsating live satellite stream of a landscape at the screens centre was a train about half way up the train a white square pulsated around a certain carriage the white square had a label which simply read:

“Transponder Frequency 3.19 Mhz, Minister Tanya Ley”

Smiling cheekily Colonel Dempsey allowed the room to quieten before announcing:

“Colonel Draven, 22 SAS capable of extracting her if things get hot and hairy?”

A very young male in a Colonels uniform winked and merely replied:

“You bet Sir”

Flight Whisky Papa Two Two, 125 Miles North West of Antalya Island, Barronian International Airspace:

The Bombardier Challenger 604 had been flying for approximately 4 hours now and its flight team was getting increasingly anxious and concerned in regards to the situation around them. This Challenger 604 was a VSIS modified version that had been rigged to carry a total of 17 passengers including crew, it also carried the latest in electronic warfare and countermeasures, this version most interestingly was completely unmarked and void of the usual Vetakan diplomatic “Tags” it was merely grey of body with tinted windows. The aircraft much to annoyance of the flight staff was flying with its transponder turned off along with its beacon radar unit. The aircrafts Captain a Vetakan Air Defence Force Fighter Pilot by the name of Daniel Butterman nervously shifted in his seat at the age of 40 he had accepted this “Routine Drop Off” in return for early retirement from the forces. An odd offer to say the least but with his marriage on the rocks and his wife “Emma” potentially screwing the postman behind his back along with the lump sum of £10,000 it was an offer he simply couldn’t refuse.

On paper it was perfect in practice it had been extremely difficult, Butterman was refused access to his passengers at this time all he been told was that once they got within 100 miles of Antalya Island he was to inform the passengers whom would provide further instructions. The journey to Barronia had been as equally as dubious the aircrafts flight plan had been pre set of which he was unable to deviate, Butterman had also been ordered to maintain radio silence and only break it when ordered to do so by his VIP Passengers. As the Bombardier roared on Butterman and his co-pilot kept a hawk eye on the radar panel and the communications panel as soon as either began to squawk they had both decided to demand the presence of their VIP or they would ditch the plane.

The Barronian’s were not stupid nor were they particularly happy to receive surprise guests especially in their present state, Butterman knew that their radar stations had probably picked them up ages ago and it was only a matter of time before the Cardinal Intercepts appeared.

Nova. Barronian National Waters.
Luxury Cruiser Soleil.

When the call was made and the money sent forward, the captains of various ships were contacted. A Luxury cruiser bound for different areas of the world, the Soleil was close enough to Barronia that its captain deemed it acceptable to make a short stop to pick up some refugees, it was all paid after all. What neither crew or passengers expected was for the ship to be packed full with people of different nationalities, a mosaic of Damirans, Mephrasi, Wagdians and many others finding shelter in its cabins.

”No! We’re not turning back!” even after the ship’s departure from the harbor several calls were made to its captain to pick up even more people, ”We’re already carrying three thousand people in excess of our capacity! Where would you want me to stash them all?!” it was rather difficult for him to refuse the requests knowing just how desperate people were to get out of the country, but there was no way he could turn back. The ship was filled to the brim with humans and its once spacey decks and hallways, intended for enjoyment and relaxation were filled with make shift beds and troubled faces. ”Would you rather have them starve on my ship! No means no!” it was more of a shout than anything else, but it got the point across, the man at the other end of the line obviously unhappy about the outcome, but understanding of the captain’s plight.

”Captain?” the sound of a slamming phone was hard to miss, even for the otherwise busy deck hands, ”Is everything alright?” they understood the man’s frustration with the situation. The crew was witness to the human mass in the harbor, to the countless people desperately trying to make their way to the ship and following a voluntary decision even offered their own quarters to make more room for the refugees, but the ship could handle only so many souls and stuffing the whole crew in a few rooms was bound to have negative effects on morale and efficiency.

”Yes,” his tight fists told another story, ”We’re heading home for now,” he gave the order, his eyes glued to the over crowded deck, before another thought entered his mind, ”Report our departure to the closest League ship. We’re going to need some support if we’re to get home in one piece.” The usual concerns about piracy gave way to more serious worries about hostile action from organized military forces and even worse, about the precarious situation created by the lack of space. It was easy, too easy for the refugees to find an outlet for their frustration, that had to be avoided and there was no way for the crew to be ready for such a crisis.

On the Dervish, the situation continued to deteriorate. The Venture refused to gave way to the ship and captain Hubert had no intention to let himself be stopped in international waters. ”Stubborn people, aren’t they?” in any other situation the captain would have been amused at the situation, perhaps even respectful about the courage displayed by the Venture. In a way, it was understandable, the paranoia displayed by the Barronian government in regards to the League’s citizens clearly echoed in the Naval command. For all the DLN knew, the Barronians thought they were dealing with an invasion!

To Hubert’s question there was no answer, just a hasty informative note from his communication officer as the message from the Soleil reached them, ”Sir, we’re being hailed by the Soleil,” on a screen data relevant about the ship was displayed, ”They’re helping with the evacuation and requesting some sort of escort.” The conversation between the two captains was short, but the message was clear. The Soleil needed support and its captain was none too certain about the likelihood of getting his cargo home in one piece.

”Well, seems we’ll have to end this game of mouse and cat sooner than we expected,” the man rubbed his chin as he checked the tactical display, ”Engines at full throttle, get the Lumiere and Éclair to flank them, remember their captains not to initiate any hostile actions, the man gave his orders as he decided on the next step, ”There’s no way we’re going to let that ship to the wolves!”

Like all ships in the DLN, the Lumiere and the Éclair were nuclear powered and therefore fast ships compared to most others in their class. The frigates had been expensive at the moment of purchase, but the autonomy and freedom of movement granted to them by the nuclear powered engines more than made up for that, allowing the League substantial advantages in terms of deployments and patrols where otherwise larger, more expensive vessels were required. This little doctrinal detail was also the reason why the League could afford to amass so much fire power in one place, as the mobility of the carrier groups and larger vessels was greatly increased, a detail that should the situation degenerate further the Barronians were sure to find out.

”The Lumiere and Éclair acknowledge the orders Sir, they’re moving at full speed,” the Dervish also started moving, the electronic eyes of the ship never leaving the Venture as they watched for potentially hostile actions to take place.

BMS Sunshine Venture

"Shit. Weapons Officer, stand it down. Helmsman, full ahead."
"Sir, the Dervish is likely to be able to outrun us."
"I know. Send a request to DC for reinforcements. See that they send the Swordfish."

Swordfish Squadron, or more formally 1054 Squadron Maritime Intercept and Neutralisation, were 12 Nimrod MRA.4 maritime patrol and warfare aircraft. Some of Barronia's finest inhabited 1054, and as far as the Aeronautical Service went, the créme de la créme.

Amber alert hadn't been rescinded at the station for some months since the beginning of the conflict, and weary eyes scanned Operations Screens in the towers. Cardinal fighters had been on patrol 24/7 since the outbreak of war, the characteristic slight-grey trail being their giveaway in the skies over Barronia.

Today, however, would be their day. Red alert sounded, the klaxon shrill in the cold air. Inside the Nimrods, technicians began start-up procedures in a carefully rehearsed procedure allowing for maximum efficiency. Below them, weapons engineers fitted torpedoes and anti-ship missiles to aircraft wings and fuselages, orange tape fitted to the noses indicating fresh armaments. Above the sky, a single Cardinal circled, it's landings interrupted by the activity on the ground.

Across the way, Cardinals were being fuelled and prepared for their takeoff as the escort. The full details of the Damiran fleet was unknown; chances in wartime were taken as a necessity, not a liberty. Pilots sat flicking switches and watching screens; all-glass cockpits simply meant a bank of computers rather than dials had to be watched. One by one, thumbs went up, the universal "A-OK" signal. Visors down, the Cardinals made their way to the runways, screaming off into the air.

The Swordfish crews took the steps 2 at a time, barely allowing the gangways time to pull away from the aircraft before beginning to pull away, the weapons operator closing the door halfway down the taxiway, at almost 20 miles per hour. Swordfish leader, in the aircraft S-Sampson, uttered a small prayer.

"...for he shall give his angels charge over you, to keep me in all my ways. Amen."

His squadron echoed his final word, before he pushed the throttle through to maximum and left the earth for what could be the last time.

They pushed through the skies, radar and scanning systems picking up a large vessel down in Portsmouth. Knowing the situation, the aircraft began to make their descent.

100 Miles North West of Antalya Island

"Unidentified aircraft, identify yourself. This is your warning. Respond."

The Cardinal appeared from underneath the Challenger, it's pilots level. The pilot waggled the wings of his aircraft, before pointing at his earphones and mouthpiece.

"Respond."

On the other side, another Cardinal appeared. Both in the straight blue-grey of the wartime interceptor's standard, their presence was no doubt noted by the pilot. A third had located itself directly behind the Challenger. Activating the weapons targeting system for 2 seconds exactly, he would no doubt have set off the various alarms in the Challenger - enough for the pilot to realise what he was dealing with.

Diplomatic Train Lounge Carriage

"Of course, Ms Ley. Naturally, Barronia takes it's relations extremely seriously - regrettable, therefore, that you come under such circumstances, but they are, of course, necessary in the situation. I look forward to sending you home with a positive picture of our fine nation - the Delian League, I shall be frank, does not appear to appreciate our current course of action. Naturally, an outside opinion may yet convince us - a fresh perspective, as it were.

"I currently hold position of Magistrate for Extra-Imperial Affairs - Foreign Minister by any other name, really - and one of the three main powerholders in the Magisterium..."

A young waiter walked in carrying 4 glasses - two for white, and two for red wines. Dressed in a uniform that wouldn't out of place in the 1910's on the Great Western Railway, he had a kepi-style cap and navy blue uniform, the Diplomatic Service insignia clear upon the breast.

"Ma'am, we have a selection of wines available for your journey, if you wish to view?"

In your arms,
Sweet sorrow,
Embrace we will,
At this noon's end,
Death's song.
Serran Iherod ~ Poet of the Blade

DLN Dervish

”Enemy ship attempting to pursue, Lumière and Éclair report beginning the flanking maneuver,” the captain of the Dervish released a small sigh at the news. Despite their boasting the Venture had not taken things to the next level by opening fire on his ship, an act both parties knew couldn't be taken back.

”Very well, we should be able to outrun them if we keep going at this speed, expect for some other form of interference to emerge,” the cool, calm face of the captain was all the crew was allowed to see. Hubert knew that one slip, just one gesture in this kind of situation weighed more than any word or action in different circumstances. ”Keep radars on active and launch Recon 1 &3, they already know we're here, no point in being silent.”

”Yes sir!” the sound of the two Recon crafts launching could be heard shortly afterward, ”Satellite data will be shortly available.”

The Dervish was the first surface ship to play this dance with the Barronians and captain Hubert had every intention of making his presence count for the rest of the fleet coming after him. ”Good, make sure we're sending everything back to the Fleet, reassure the captain of the Soleil we'll be there to pick them up shortly.”

Under the waves, other captains did not share the same view on the affair as captain Hubert, the massive submarine Armada assembled by the League for this operation represented by one of its best crews and captains, DLN Beneide slowly making its way towards Barronian waters.

”Can you see what that fool's doing?” Captain Alexei's bemused voice was the only one heard in the tomb like silence of the submarine and even this usually exuberant man keeping his tone low, ”He's forcing their hand like a poker player.”

The eyes and ears of the submarine, the sonar, allowed the captain to keep up to date with the developments above the surface, ”Yes sir, but if our readings are right, he managed to make them fold. Not many have guts like a submariner to pull that off.”

”Is that respect I hear in your voice Serghei? It's rare for you to praise a surface boy, maybe we should get the time to play a game with that captain,” despite the advanced and sophisticated sonar of the Beneide, there were limits to what it could do and whilst it was advanced enough to tell the classes of the ships involved in the above stand off by the propeller noise it was another matter entirely for it to pinpoint which ships they were, especially from such a distance.

”Perhaps,” the second kept his eyes on the sonar screen, ”But he's a tad too noisy for my liking.”

”Enough for every Barronian ship in the area to pick him up,” it was clear what captain of the DL cruiser was trying to do, ”There was no way for him to avoid detection and I doubt that was his intention in the first place.”

”Watch out! We're coming, huh? Perhaps even painting every ship from there to the Barronian shores whilst he's at it? Intriguing.”

”Quite so, quite so, I'd definitely want to play a game of poker with this man.”

On land, the crowds gathering at the docks in Portsmouth became unbearable. There were too many people, too little space and to make it all worse, the Soleile had departed already.

”Momma! What's that?” a little boy pointed to the blue sky, the lazy clouds not enough to hide the giant metal birds, ”Look! There's more of them!”
”Planes, they're planes,” someone replied as it became obvious that the woman was sound asleep, the bangs under her eyes, the messy hair and disheveled clothes enough proof to her sorry state. ”In fact,” the speaker continued, even though the child had shifted his attention already, ”Those look pretty much like Strike Craft, but what...”

On the Soleil, the same planes were noticed by crew and passengers alike, ”Is there trouble?” a dirty, bearded man asked voicing the worries of many, ”Are they going to let us go?”

”Yes, we'll continue as previously planned,” reassurance came from the captain, ”We received no word from the Barronian authorities as to otherwise.”

And the the planes started their descent.

OOC: Will have a better reply up later.