NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: o hay guise I'm back. Exams are over and for some reason I've been missing this ridiculous place, so here we are. Previous events are from this (http://www.forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=562216) thread (thanks Russkya/Manth/Olm for your kind comments btw).
Strictly MT and no invasions right off the bat, please. I'm not discounting that possibility but at least try to RP some sort of diplomacy before doing so.
I stated before that I expelled everyone from their embassies, but in retrospect that was a silly idea so ignore that if you wish.


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Novikov declared President-for-Life
SAYENNA, Tuesday Nov. 18th.

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Director Novikov, addressing Parliament.

Interim-President and Head of the Federal Security Directorate Vasily V. Novikov (45) has this afternoon been confirmed by the reformed Parliament as President-for-Life of the Federal Republic in an unprecedented unanimous vote.

In the aftermath of the August assassination of the President and attempted coup, Interim-President Novikov has been the leader of efforts to maintain the stability of the Republic. As Hamilay's leading political figure for the past three months, he has been the primary candidate to officially succeed the deceased President.

However, the creation of the new office of President-for-Life has come as a surprise to many. The Speaker of Parliament, Stephen McKay, attempted to address these concerns in the conclusion of today's session.

"It is now clear that serious flaws exist in the stability of Hamilayan political system, with the near-success of the attempted coup three months ago. The restructuring of the Hamilayan presidency is our first step to rectify these issues, and with a head of the FSD in the Presidential Palace we are even further assured of continued security in the Hamilayan government. Myself and my colleagues have every confidence in President Novikov, and he will have our full support in his new position."

Once officially sworn in as President, it appears at this stage Interim-President Novikov plans to continue his current policy of prioritising crackdowns on internal security threats. It is also expected that, alongside the changes to the Hamilayan presidency, Novikov will make further reforms to government, most likely starting with installing the military 'Marshals' Council', who have been the main assistants of the President in this troubled period, to advise and enact policy decisions in an official capacity.

President Novikov has not made an official statement to the public, but is expected to do so at his inauguration ceremony, scheduled for tomorrow at 12pm.

Ministry of Defence
Sayenna, capital of the Federal Republic of Hamilay
November 19th, 9:07am

"Gentlemen. Thank you for arriving promptly at such short notice. If we do not act quickly, the situation will soon be beyond our control."

A dozen men were gathered in the Ministry command bunker, seated around a long mahogany table. All were in military uniform, save the President, in a black suit at the head of the table.

"With all due respect, Mr President, I hardly think it is as serious as all that," said Field Marshal Edward Barnard, without much respect at all. "We have a trained soldier for every member of the rabble, not to mention local law enforcement and your own agency's Internal Troops."

President Novikov sighed and massaged his temples. Marshal Barnard exemplified the main problem he had to deal with, blind arrogance amongst his military 'allies' and thinly veiled contempt. He held the office of President only because he was the most acceptable to the public amongst the conspirators, being a civilian of sorts - more civilian than an Army Field Marshal, anyway. This would be bad enough, but as an intelligence officer, the likes of Barnard wanted nothing to do with him. Whilst the majority of the Marshals remained willing to follow Novikov, fortunately, they might very well choose to jump ship once - or before - things turned sour and do the same to Novikov that had been done to his predecessor. On the other hand, Barnard's ignorance wasn't something which Novikov could do much about. All the old guards of the Hamilayan Army, arrogance was the main reason that these military men had been willing to back his coup, arrogance and desire for power, of course. He'd known this would be a problem right from the beginning, but it wasn't any less irritating.

"Our forces on paper are strong, yes, but I have been receiving some disturbing reports. Marshal Hall, please inform Marshal Barnard and the rest of the table."

"Yes, ahem. A short time ago, we contacted Mr Stark." Andrew Stark was the head of the Civil Guard, the paramilitary law enforcement branch of the Federal Republic. "We ordered him to make preparations to deploy the Guard to the streets if it became necessary. He gave many fine excuses, but essentially told us that we could not be guaranteed of his support. The Guard can no longer be relied upon to maintain public order in a crisis."

This ominous pronouncement caused a wave of muttering to pass around the table, but Barnard shrugged.

"So, let Stark sit in his office and watch the festivities. As I previously said, even without the Civil Guard..."

"If you'll let me finish, Marshal," said Hall coldly. "The 86th Division's command is off the air. Assets in place have noted that everything seems normal at Fort Arnoux, but Major-General Kovalevsky is not answering our messages. We must consider the possibility that Kovalevsky and his division are planning to support the popular will. Furthermore, we have received reports that members of the National Guard are amongst the rioters. We must therefore also judge that institution as unreliable."

This was sufficient to silence Barnard. Whilst the National Guard were civilians with more guns at best, there were a regiment of those civilians with guns stationed right here in the Government District, with thousands more throughout the Sayenna metropolitan area.

"As you see, the situation is rather serious," said Novikov, with a mixture of graveness and self-satisfaction. "Well, Marshal Hall, what assets do we have to quell a popular uprising? Only those whose loyalty can be depended upon, mind."

"Our most important is the 122nd Guards out at Fort Stauffenberg," interrupted Marshal Pavel Sokolov, causing Hall to glare with some annoyance. "They helped us conquer Hamilay, of course, and I can personally vouch for their loyalty."

Annoyed Hall might be, but he had to nod in agreement with the other Marshals around the table. The 122nd Guards Mechanised Division had been Sokolov's unit, which had been the primary force for securing the capital during the August coup. Any sympathies towards Hamilayan democracy would have disappeared after that. It was also one of the Army's crack Guards units, experienced and well-equipped.

"Yes, we must have the 122nd," said Hall. "It would be best if you take responsibility for them, Pavel, how long will it take for you to deploy them to the city?"

Marshal Sokolov shifted uncomfortably in his seat, and looked as if he regretted speaking up.

"Unfortunately, the division is on exercises at this time, so it will take some time to organise. The entire unit will be here by the end of the week, but I can have some elements here by the end of the day."

Hall sighed and looked to the President questioningly.

"Yes, yes, see that's done as soon as you can. Go on, Marshal Hall."

"Ahem. Other than the 112nd Guards, there's the 1057th Rifle Brigade here in the Government District. This is our first line of defence should we be attacked. There's also the 1062nd Independent Tanks down at Fort Williamsburg, but that's also where the 8th Infantry is based. The commander of 1062nd Tanks is reliable, but I have my suspicions about Major-General Reinhard of the 8th. I doubt the Infantry will be of use to us, and he may try to prevent the 1062nd coming to our assistance. We can't put too much emphasis on them in a defence of the capital. Then there's the 656th Parachute Brigade up at Mornington. Unfortunately, they have no transport planes at present, so they won't be of much use for some time. However, we can acquire helicopter assets from them. Finally, we have a battalion of air defence troops on Governors' Island, but they won't be of much use in combat."

"The Air Force?" asked Marshal von Ritter.

"The 206th Tactical Fighter Wing and 59th Bomber Wing are at our disposal. There is, however, the question of collateral damage..."

"Acknowledged," said Novikov. "Are we agreed that we will attempt to preserve the city's infrastructure as a priority, and use air strikes as sparingly as possible?"

On this all registered their agreement. None of them were too keen to see the results of heavy bombing in a city with hundreds of skyscrapers.

"That's all the information I have. Mr President, what can we expect from the Directorate's Internal Troops? You would be best placed to tell us," finished Hall.

"There is one division of Internal Troops here in the Government District, as you know, and another division's worth scattered around the city. We can rely on their loyalty, at any rate," said Novikov smugly.

"This is not enough," said von Ritter sharply. "We can deal with the populace, but if the Civil Guard or any of these treacherous army units join them we will have our hands more than full."

Novikov was surprised. He had always pegged von Ritter as one of the most arrogant of the lot, but in this case he was echoing Novikov's own thoughts. Evidently, the old bastard was more in touch with reality than he appeared.

"Agreed. The most important thing we can do is to keep the Civil Guard out of this mess. If we send some troops over there, perhaps they will be kept in line, and maybe a negotiator can persuade Stark or his underlings to see reason. I will make the necessary arrangements. In the meantime, we must keep the riots under control as best we can. Get the local police under control, and begin deploying your troops to the streets. This is the point of no return, gentlemen. We win here or we die."

This was nonsense, and all present knew it - the point of no return had been as soon as they walked into the President's office with guns drawn. Nobody bothered to bring that up, though.

"God save the Republic," somebody muttered.

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Presidential inauguration postponed as riots break out
SAYENNA, Wednesday Nov. 19th.

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Rioters on the streets of Sayenna in the early hours of the morning

The announcement of Vasily V. Novikov's confirmation as President-for-Life has caused outbreaks of anti-government delinquency throughout the nation.

It is estimated approximately 100,000 criminals have taken to the streets across the Federal Republic, engaging in acts of looting and vandalism. The vast majority of the unrest is occuring in the capital of Sayenna, which is of sufficient concern to the government that the official inaguration of the President, scheduled for 12pm today, has been postponed until further notice.

A spokesperson from the Federal Security Directorate has stated that the government is 'exploring all possible options' before resorting to force to disperse the rioters, but FSD Internal Troops are being deployed to the streets to assist local police forces in maintaining order. No comment was given on the possibility of the Army being used to quash the protests.

Strangely enough, the Civil Guard has not been deployed in force to deal with this crisis, despite riot policing being one of their primary duties. Again, no comment was given by the government on this oddity.

The President is scheduled to make a brief television and radio address to the nation within the hour.

More on this situation as it develops.

...

Private Message

To President Vasily V. Novikov,

I wish to congratulate you on your soon to be appointment as president for life. However, I am concerned with the rioting in your nation. If there is anyway that my humble nation can assist you and yours, please do not hesitate to ask. We have also just recently undergone a regime change, though ours involved a civil war. Not to worry, they are all dead now, and stability has been restored. I hope you will consider my proposal.

Signed,
His Excellency, the Great and Mighty,
President Devin Jamison Fogarty
The Beatus

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Official Diplomatic Communique

The Federal Republic thanks you for your support, President Fogarty. At this stage, we have the situation under control. However, your generous offer will not be forgotten, and I hope our nations will be able to cooperate in the future.

Regards.
President of the Federal Republic of Hamilay
Vasily Vladimirovich Novikov
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TO: Hamilay Government
FROM: Vamperial Kingdom of Lynion, High King Vamp

I have recently heard of the rioting in your nation. It is such a shame that the protestors have gone so violently since the old days. Even though we don't mind the odd peaceful protest, I think there's a line drawn between viloence and protest. Therefore, I am willing to dispatch a detachment to help out. It'll be around two battalions maybe four depending on how many men we can muster.

If you wish to accept or decline, please responde back.

Private Message

To President Vasily V. Novikov,

I understand, and will have people on standby, ready to assist you, should that time come. We stand with you in your righteous actions.

Signed,
His Excellency, the Great and Mighty,
President Devin Jamison Fogarty
The Beatus

Beatusian High Command Bunker

"Put the 8063rd Military Police on full combat readiness, and tell them to be ready to move out within a moments notice. Also, have them review crowd control, non-lethal munitions, and mass arrest procedures, and pack full riot gear," General Daniels said to one of his aides. The call was made, and alarms split the night's quite at Petersen Airbase, as the 8063rd was rousted to full combat readiness.

[welcome back, NS has too few military juntas anyway. Btw, I wanted to ask how you concluded imperialist rebellion that me and Manth backed? Or are imperialists still holding that island?]

Handwritten Letter From Supreme Honoured Chieftain "Quicksilver" of the White Phoenix Tribe, Chieftain of the Tribal Chiefdom of Vetaka, Delivered by the Chieftains Official Messenger "Foxspears".......

Official Tribal Chiefdom of Vetaka Diplomatic Message:

To: President of the Federal Republic of Hamilay, Honoured Vasily Vladimirovich Novikov
From: Supreme Honoured Chieftain of the White Phoenix Tribe, Chieftain of the Tribal Chiefdom of Vetaka, Honoured "Quicksilver"

Subject: Renewing Old Ties

Greetings Honoured Vasily Vladimirovich Novikov,

It is my sternest hope that this message reaches you in the finest and strongest of health and spirit. I am Quicksilver, Tribal Chieftain of Vetaka Leader of the Diplomatic Warriors of Vetaka. I write to you on this moon to formally request that our two nations reignite our Ties so that we may renew and reforge our old relationships and friendships. Our people once shared get ties under the faithful leadership of the honoured Vetakan Democratic Republic governments it is my hope that such relations can exist between the Federal Republic and the Tribal Chiefdom.

As a sign and show of our intent, heart and spirit in this matter Vetaka shall from this moon forward formally recognise the legality and legitimacy of the Vasily V. Novikov Political Leadership in its governance of the people of Hamilay. Further to this we offer the Federal Republic its old Embassy complex and all of its Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges prior to its retreat into isolation. Along with any diplomatic, political, economic and potentially military aid required in this unstable time.

I hope to hear from you soon.

I bow to no man but I bow to you

Yours

Quicksilver

Supreme Honoured Chieftain of the White Phoenix Tribe
Chieftain of the Tribal Chiefdom Vetaka
Supreme Commanding Admiral In Chief of the Vetakan Defence Forces

Delivered Along With the "Spear of Hamilay" (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31JCV0W1Z8L._SL500_AA280_.jpg) etched into the Platinum Blade the words "Dulce Et Decorum Est Pro Patria Mori". Forged and Produced by the Chieftain Himself.

[OOC: Good to see you back.]

OOC: Sorry for brief post, new laptop and I've been setting everything up nicely all evening. Olm, the imperialists are still alive and kicking and have an uneasy truce with the government. With military hard-liners in power that may change but I'm not sure how as of yet - having the empire get bombed to rubble in a couple of posts would be a huge cop-out but neither do I want to fight the exact same war over again. I'll see what happens with that.


"Another offer of support, it seems. This was most unexpected."

"There is something more unexpected coming up, I think, but let us deal with this first. Your response, Mr President?"

Lt. Gen Matthew Garnett (ret) now held the interim position of Foreign Minister in the hastily cobbled together administration, having reasonable diplomatic experience as a foreign liasion officer for the Army. One of the younger members of the junta in his mid-thirties, Novikov approved of Garnett; intelligent, thoughtful and collected. Not at all set in his ways like the Marshals, which, conveniently, made him easier to manipulate.

"This is all very well, but I have my reservations. A penny for your thoughts, Minister."

"In my opinion, sir, foreign troops musn't be allowed into Sayenna. I don't work for the Interior Ministry, but I'd boot all the foreigners out now if we had the time and resources. We may have to take... drastic measures... to deal with the unrest, and in that case we really don't want foreign observers."

Novikov nodded and smiled. He could put on an excellent smile; it had been refined over a twenty-year career.

"My thoughts exactly, Minister. Turn them down. Politely, of course."


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Official Diplomatic Communique to the Kingdom of Lynion

The Federal Republic thanks you for your support. However, at this point in time our security forces have the situation under control. We will keep your generous offer in mind.

Regards.
President of the Federal Republic of Hamilay
Vasily Vladimirovich Novikov
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"Now, this certainly is interesting," said Novikov, as he was handed the second communique. As the Vetakan government had been a staunch backer of the legitimate presidency during the Hamilayan Civil War, their offer of support signified either a major turnaround in Vetakan policy towards the Federal Republic or that security around the coup had been much tighter than Novikov had given credit for.

"Well, we want to keep things quiet for a while, but this needs a response."



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Official Diplomatic Communique to the Tribal Chiefdom of Vetaka

The Federal Republic warmly welcomes its Vetakan allies of old, and it is our fondest wish that Hamilay-Vetaka relations remain cordial. Your finely crafted gift is magnificent - it will have an honoured place amongst the treasures of Hamilay. At this stage, your moral support is all we can ask for, as we are taking steps which we believe will be sufficient to contain the civil disorder.

Please understand that due to the current situation here, we are unable to reoccupy our embassy in Vetaka, but once the situation is stabilised we will dispatch a representative and staff posthaste.

Regards.
President of the Federal Republic of Hamilay
Vasily Vladimirovich Novikov
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Private Message Communique:

To President Vasily V. Novikov,

We offer our due congratulations to your appointment as President-for-life, and wish to offer our moral and physical support to your nation - should you need any support we will be able to provide for most, if not all situations.

Signed,
President of the Commonwealth of Kuratani
Barad Shurn

The intersection between Fitzgerald Avenue and England Street was usually one of the busiest in the city of Sayenna, being the main thoroughfare from the city center into the Government District. Now, though, there were no civilian vehicles in sight, at least not in working order. England Street was empty of traffic in both directions east and west, with a small number of looters running around amid scattered burning and overturned cars. No one paid them any attention, though, as all eyes were focused on the huge mass of people in the middle of the intersection, throwing rocks and bottles at the pitifully thin blue line blocking the route south to the Presidential Palace.

Thirty or forty officers of the Sayenna police were struggling to hold back the seething crowd with batons and tasers. Barely half had any sort of riot gear. The concrete barricades were the only thing that had saved them from being trampled to death, but now the rioters were beginning to catch on to the fact that they would have to march on Parliament and the Palace to get the government's attention, and were trying to climb the barricade as the police frantically tried to push them off. None really had any experience in this kind of situation; most dealt with theft, the odd assault and giving tourists directions. This was a job for the Civil Guard, but their headquarters on Embassy Row had been silent for several hours.

The police captain wiped his brow and stepped back from the line for a breather. He eyed the numerous firearms in the mob nervously; they had shown admirable restraint - for rioters - so far, but if someone decided to start shooting at the cops, they were all dead men. He was just turning this gloomy thought over in his mind when one of his officers shouted and pointed to a line of black APCs rolling up Fitzgerald Avenue behind them. Civil Guards, the captain thought with relief. The rioters thought the same, because some hesitated and began to move back from the barricade.

The first vehicle pulled up and a man in a beret and battle dress climbed out. He surveyed the police with distaste for a moment, then walked towards the captain.

"Major Soknowski. You are the police commander?"

"Yes, major, Captain F-" The major silenced him with a wave of his hand.

"I am in command now. I expected to find no one here, but I suppose you are only facing a rabble. We shall... disperse them."

The captain's skin crawled at the tone of the major's last sentence. The rest of the APCs arrived and formed a line behind the police, who were mostly retreating behind the vehicles, only too happy to let the newcomers handle the situation. Soldiers in black tactical gear began climbing out of the carriers, and the captain realised with a jolt that they were Internal Troops of the Federal Security Directorate, not the Guard. He scarcely had time to wonder what they were doing here, as the rioters also noticed and their anger intensified, surging towards the barricade. The Internal Troops rushed to meet them, pushing them off with rifle butts.

Then a shot rang out.

A gunner on one of the APCs yelled as a small-calibre pistol round grazed his shoulder. In a blink of an eye, the rifles at the barricade were flipped around, with bayonets flashing in the sun.

The FSD major cast a second distasteful look, this time on the rioters. He barked an order into his radio, even as the police captain reached out in a futile attempt to dissuade him.

"That's it then. Fire at will."

The assault rifles on the barricade cracked at point-blank range, and twenty bodies crumpled to the ground. Shouts immediately turned to screams. The machineguns on the vehicles added their fire to that of the soldiers' M4s, scything through the crowd. As the people screamed, died and ran, the police captain reflected bitterly that this capital city in a country that so prided itself on stability and order now had seen the streets run red for the third time in as many years.

A messsage sent to the President
Hello, we see you are in dire need of squashing a rebellion, I believe we can solve your problem with no collateral damage
-Rabidus Umbra

"…and my department believes that we should be looking at this as an opportunity, not as a disaster. Hamilay's previous beloved leader" - this got a few chuckles from the less military men in the room - "had a problem, he had invested himself personally in defeating the Empire and when that did not work out for him he suffered political consequences. Quite severe ones as we may guess from what’s been coming out of Hamilayan broadcasting. But he first attacked because he expected an easy victory. He gambled on achieving this early victory, failure destroyed his political capital, and I am sure Novikov, or whoever is the real power behind his government, will have little trouble recalling his example. If we can persuade him that any future attack on the Empire will be just as costly and pointless – that it will end up for him just like it did for his predecessor – then he may not try.”

Weeks and you still don’t know who is behind the new government? Ismail wanted to say, but he bit his tongue as the Director of Military Intelligence stopped speaking, and looked to the others.

"And we can stop jumping every time a Hamilayan soldier so much as sneezes?"

This from further down the table - the army end. Ironic as it might be, Ismail reflected, it seemed the Army was always keenest to avoid fights these days. Perhaps the bloody nose they had gotten in Reykyavik and Halako had changed some...

"Something like that..."

The response broke Ismail’s train of thought, and he turned – along with most of his end of the table – to look towards the seat at its head, whose aged occupant was now speaking.

"…and then we can concentrate on what really needs our attention. The piracy outbreaks in Nova for one, the grumbling out of Atrea for another..."

The old man paused, apparently clearing his throat at first until the coughs failed to stop. Eighteen pairs of eyes, including those few who had not been much engaged before, were suddenly fixed upon him for the almost thirty seconds it took for the coughing to subside.

"Well anyway," he straightened, "best for us if the tension on the Hamilayan border is not too high in the future. And I think that is best achieved by upping it a little now, while we have enough breathing room and force to spare. With the way things are going, we won't in a few months. I say we ask the Empire to ask us to do a few exercises with whatever Navy they have left. They have a lot more reason to be nervous about the new Hamilayan government than we do so I am hoping they will be cooperative. Then send a couple dozen carriers for some play battles off the Imperial coastline. It’s hard to tell how stable the new government is with the little information they are letting out, but I doubt they are secure enough that they would risk anything other than an easy victory over the Empire."

The old man looked around the room, counting nods and affirmations.

"Everybody on board? Good. Let’s get this started and finished quickly. The sooner this is over the sooner we can have those carriers in Western Nova where they are needed."

A muted chorus of "Yes, Mr. President" signaled the end of the meeting.

******

Coming out of the room and into halls bustling with junior officers and staffers, Ismail loitered as the others filed out until he had caught sight of his man.
A good ally, Asad, and a good friend, one whom he had known in adademy and who had served under him in the Navy. The man looked worried – it was the same thing that the government and the military had been discussing quietly for years now, and that even the popular press had picked up on.

"You saw that, I know.”

“He has been ill.”

“Ill?”

Asad’s eyebrows shot up.

“He looked like he was going to keel over and die!”

“Wouldn’t want to be around here when he does, would you?”

“Me? Hah! I can’t imagine what a mess it will be around here.”

“I’ll take that as a yes, and Asad – you’re a lucky man, then.”

The other man stopped, forcing Ismail to come to a halt as well.

“Why do you say that?”

Ismail forced a smile.

“Because you won’t be around. As you heard, the president will be showing the flag around Hamilay, and of course for such a large visit quite a lot of preparation will be needed. When the real planning starts I will suggest you to head a preliminary mission to the Empire to do the nuts and bolts, decide where to hold the exercises and what Imperial units to involve, what dates, work out the ports and get people working on logistics…”

“You…”

Asad seemed confused for a moment.

“I’m being… you’re sending me out of the city? Is it… you know I was half joking about that, right? It may be a bit chaotic but I hardly think it’s that bad, Stephanopoulos isn’t that wildly unpopular…”

Ismail shrugged.

“You are right, Stephanopoulos is not that unpopular. What I was going to say is that you should view this assignment as a small break, a vacation, from the rigors of life here in the middle of everything.”

He glanced down at his watch.

“Sorry my friend, I can’t stay and talk any longer. See you tomorrow.”

Valencia
Capital of the Imperial State of North Hamilay


"... so, as I have detailed in my report to Your Majesty, it is imperative that we mobilise all available forces immediately. The Imperial Guard currently has twenty divisions at full strength, and I estimate after activation of reserves and local militias we may boost this number to twenty-five. Furthermore, it is my recommendation that the IAF initiate Plan Consensus-Three."

William VI, Emperor of Hamilay, let out a sigh. So much for stability. It seemed the stream of threats towards the Empire's security would never end. Whilst he was loath to criticise Lucas, the commander of the Imperial Guard being one of his most stalwart and loyal personnel, she was all too quick to resort to force, as were so many of his other officers. As the Imperial military had been hovering on the brink of collapse less than three years earlier, this was a recipe for disaster.

"Very well. Refresh my memory, General; Consensus-Three?"

"Your Majesty, Consensus-Three is our codename for Directorate of Defence Intelligence's approved plan in response to an imminent attack on the Empire from the Republic. Consensus involves pre-emptive strikes on the shipyards at Castell, Chernaya and Ravenna, whilst the Imperial Marines - "

The Emperor cut off the Commandant-General with a wave of his hand.

"No. Absolutely not. The new clique in Sayenna will in all likelihood come down on us with all their strength. The peace deal stipulates no 'actions of aggression' from either side of the Valencia Strait. We have a mutual defence pact, for crying out loud! Simply put, you know as well as I do the Empire cannot afford another war, General."

"Your Majesty, all our sources report the Republic is increasing its readiness all along the coast. The Home Fleet North is preparing to put to sea, a number of task groups from the Bay of Beferen are sailing north to join them, air patrols have increased fourfold and a marine division got off the trains in Chernaya not two hours ago! The peace treaty means nothing to the new administration. War is inevitable. If Your Majesty will not permit a strike on the Republican ports, at least have the army mobilised."

"There will be no strike. Lucas, the Republic may have new leaders, but the Empire does not. I have personally agreed to this peace and its terms will be respected, and Imperial honour with it. All our sources also report that the Republic is facing major troubles on the home front. As much as Vasily Novikov would like to see our end, we can still avoid a war. But I will permit you to raise our readiness to DEFCON Three. Do not call up the militias, but you may begin mobilising reservists."

The Emperor almost spat when he spoke Novikov's name. It was an open secret amongst the upper echelons of Imperial leadership that the Republic had orchestrated mass executions of Imperial POWs and that Novikov was one of the scheme's major architects. In the aftermath of the Great Independence War, as Imperial citizens had taken to calling what the Republic officially recognised as the Second Civil War, Imperial representatives had wanted Novikov and numerous others brought to trial for war crimes. However, Foreign Minister Fletcher had threatened to counter-charge the Imperial leadership for orchestrating a coup against the Hamilayan government, and some snooping around by the FID had turned up the embarassing matter of the deceased Chancellor Dawson, who had intended to launch chemical weapons on both Imperial and Republican civilians.

The end result was that both sides had agreed to wipe the slate clean with regards to the likes of war crimes. Nobody was particularly happy, though, and the likes of Novikov remained persona non grata in the Empire.

"Has Your Majesty allowed for the possibility that the President will launch an invasion as a way of shoring up support amongst the hard-liners that make up most of his power base?" snapped Lucas. Immediately, she was afraid she had spoken too harshly, but a glance showed the Emperor was not like to call her out on it. Whilst William VI was energetic and driven, young in his thirties, for a brief instant there was a tired old man sitting on the chair in front of her.

"Yes, but we have no choice. You are dismissed, General. Do what you need to do with... regards... to the Guard." There was no warmth in his chuckle. "How feeble. I apologise. It has been... a long day."

Lucas saluted and walked out. As the heavy wooden door of the Emperor's office closed behind her, William VI stood up and rummaged through the papers on his desk. He found the one he was looking for, and began reading for what seemed like the hundredth time.

Most esteemed Emperor of North Hamilay.
We have already met once, but only for a handshake and a few words for the cameras. However, as the President of the Federal Republic, I must again extend my deepest personal apology for the rift between our two nations that I have helped to widen. I would like to arrange a meeting between two heads of state at the earliest date possible
...
You have my word that as long as I live, there will be peace between Hamilayans, whether led by a President or an Emperor.

William VI studied the letter once more. Then he crumpled it up and threw it in the fireplace, watching the edges blacken and shrivel.

War Room, Varbola, Olmedreca

Man in early thirties wearing a black uniform of the military intelligence, was informing Supreme War Council about Hamilay situation: “Anti-government riots are currently taking place all over the Federal Republic of Hamilay. While government has deployed military forces to support normal police, the Civil Guard which purpose is handling such situation has not been deployed. Intelligence believes that most likely reason are doubts in loyalty of the Civil Guard, similar problems may exist with some army units.”

“Is it just an assumption or do you have real evidence about loyalty problems in the army?” interrupted Foreign Minister Lembit Parmasto.

“Sir, this is just an assumption currently.”

Minister nodded and presenter continued while using his laser pointer to point on several locations on map of Northern Hamilay which had been projected on wall:

“We have spotted high activity of Republican forces near Valencia Strait, including above normal activity by the Home Fleet North, and arrival of marines in Chernaya.”

“How many marines?” asked General Aleksander Vares from Army General Staff.

“Could be anything from single brigade to two full divisions.” Replied presenter and continued:

“The Imperial State of North Hamilay has obviously noticed those preparations too. Their Imperial Guard has currently standing army of twenty divisions. We have clear confirmation that Empire has started mobilizing reservists. This is probably accompanied by higher readiness, although we don’t have confirmation about that yet. Militias have not been called up in significant scale so far. Imperial navy…”

“No need to get into those details, go straight to Olmedrecan assets in area” interrupted General Ernst Põdder, chief of military intelligence.

Presenter nodded and continued: “There are no Olmedrecan combat units in North Hamilay currently, whole Olmedrecan presence is limited to small group of diplomatic representatives. Only active naval assets near Empire are attack submarines A-19, currently located here north of Empire, and A-614, currently here near Chernaya.” Said presenter while pointing on map projection. “In two weeks period four more attack submarines would reach to area. Only surface ship which is significantly closer to empire then assets at Olmedrecan mainland is Light Cruiser OML Naerukajakas which would require 17 to 18 days for reaching to Hamilay from its current position. Any questions?”

“I have one question, Empire was previously also backed by New Manth. Do we have any information about their contacts with Empire?” asked minister Parmasto.

Presenter clearly looked confusedly towards his superior General Põdder, who motioned him to step aside and replied himselfly: “No information so far, we don’t rule out possibility of such communications.”

Parmasto nodded and continued: “Either way, I would say its good time to re-evaluate our policy in Hamilay.”

“What do you mean?” asked First Citizen Karm curiously.

“Well, lets face it, originally Olmedeca backed the imperialist coup because we expected them to win, which would had been very profitable for us. They did not win…”

“Because we pulled out at critical moment!” interrupted General Vares with annoyed tone.

“Irrelevant historical details,” dismissed Parmasto, “fact is, the Empire practically lost, latter we backed them simply because our relations with the Federal Republic were already completely ruined, so we did not lose anything by backing imperials. But it is time to look things realistically, Empire is a very small force on strategic scale both militarily and economically. It is not profitable to send armed forces all the way to Hamilay if Republic should invade again. We should start normalizing relations with Republicans, they have both military and economical potential to make good relations with them profitable. In current situation Novikov and his junta would probably welcome chance to warm relation with one of main historical backers of Imperials.”

“This is ridiculous!” shouted general Vares, “We cannot cut ties with our friends just like that!”

“As far as I can remember you were main proponent of keeping so called "hard line" against our Solarian allies in recent Goobergunchian conflict, not to mention your pre-emptive strike plans. Please don’t try to claim some moral high ground here.” Was foreign minister Parmasto’s cold reply.

General did not even try to hide his dislike towards minister: “Goobergunchian issue was critical to national security, something that bureaucrats in foreign ministry seemed to not understand properly. On other hand, Olmedrecan homeland will not become safer if bureaucrats sell Empire to Hamilayan Republicans.”

“I have to agree with mister foreign minister”, said admiral Strendman from Admiralty, interrupting the argument, and continued “It takes more than a month for our ships to travel to Hamilay, considering escalating Presto-Clandonian conflict and tensions near Ugrimaa, we do not have much naval assets to spare if we want to keep Olmedrecan position strong in Haven.”

General Vares smirked: “Heh, the army could deploy troops to Hamilay without creating any serious holes in our positions, maybe problem is simply in competence of the Admiralty and…”

“Gentlemen please,” interrupted First Citizen Karm with slight smirk, “no need to get so worked up over such a relatively minor issue. Both sides are making completely valid arguments here, it is true that we should not simply dump our relations with the Empire, on the other hand, current situation offers little benefits to us, and helping imperialists in the case of war is complicated due distances. I would suggest trying to redefine our relationship with the Empire firstly, like establishing permanent Olmedrecan military bases on its territory, and giving our Imperialist friends some sort of protectorate status. As general Vares kindly mentioned we have enough troops to spare for such long distance deployment, so there should be nothing impossible here. Thoughts?”

“They will probably reject this proposal,” was General Põdder from intelligence unconvinced.

“In case of rejection we offer détente to Republicans as mister Parmasto suggested, it is not our duty to provide charity to other states. If the Empire thinks that they can survive on their own, or have better allies elsewhere, then it is their free choice.” Replied Karm.

“Actually, I kind of like this idea, either way we cannot lose here.” Agreed minister Parmasto.

“General?” turned Karm towards Vares.

Aleksander Vares was far less happy with such idea. Whole room stayed quiet with all attention on general who scratched his red beard and finally nodded slightly.

Karm smiled calmly, “Excellent, if nobody else has any complaints, we will put the Hamilay discussion to rest until there is some progress in this field. We will all meet again here in five hours to talk about Goobergunchia and the rest of Haven. In meanwhile, mister Parmasto, I trust you with contacting Empire.”

“Yes, Sir.” replied the foreign minister as everyone started rising up and gathering their papers.

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

http://wikistates.outwardhosting.com/w/images/1/1d/Olmedreca_coat.PNG
To: Emperor of North Hamilay

Technocracy of Olmedreca has noticed the rise of new troubles in Hamilay. I am confident that you have received similar reports about the Republican military activity as we have. Unfortunately due distance from Olmedreca to the Empire of Hamilay, and recent rapid rise of intra-Havenic tensions including the Presto-Clandonian War, Technocracy may be unable to give you appropriate support should the new government of Republic choose a war again.

Still Government of Technocracy has one proposal to solve this issue effectively, we suggest establishing permanent Olmedrecan bases for a sufficiently long timeperiod on the territory of Empire. This would deter any agression by Republic and help to build up Empire’s relations with Olmedreca. If you are interested in our proposal we can start discussing details of new relationship between our nations which this arrangement would result.

Lembit Parmasto
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Technocracy of Olmedreca

ooc: this should have been posted immediately following the other, but, well, you know how time gets filled up...

Anyway, encrypted obviously...

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT CCX LIAISON
Addressed to the Emperor of Hamilay

As you are well aware, the Greater Economic Union has been keeping as close an eye as possible on Hamilay for some time. We believe that the inauguration of a new government in mainland Hamilay presents an opportunity to move relations with the Republican government past the level where Manthian carrier groups go on alert at the slightest signs of unusual activity across the channel. To be frank, while we continue to maintain our support for your government, the Union's resources are not endless and other demands upon them will arise in the future. Resources are available at the present, however, and we would like to offer the opportunity to impress upon the new government our sustained commitment to the Empire as well as a certain worry about the level of force we can bring to bear here.

Therefore I would like to invite the Imperial military to partake in joint naval exercises with the Union Navy at some point not too far in the future. Proposed scenarios include sealane protection against hostile naval forces, defense of Imperial airspace coordinated between the Union Navy and Imperial air assets, and simulated naval strikes against possible beachheads in the Empire.

The Union Navy is prepared to commit up to thirty full carrier battle groups to play the role of enemy naval assets, as well as twenty carrier battle groups to play the role of arriving friendly naval forces - which will cooperate with Imperial air and naval assets. Additional forces will include submarines - nuclear attack and diesel-electric patrol boats for both sides, as well as SSBNs for the hostile side - up to twenty-five amphibious assault carriers for the attacking side, as well as transport and logistics elements to represent inbound friendly shipping.

As noted, the Navy expects to face increasing demand for its vessels in upcoming months due to changing situations elsewhere. Therefore, while it is understood that large-scale exercises will take some time to prepare, the process should be started as soon as possible.

Finally and on a less urgent note, the Union Navy will be downsizing its diesel-electric submarine arm in the future as the military situation of the Union as a whole no longer calls for overwhelming emphasis on littoral defense as a naval doctrine. A number of Macabean Type A submarines will be retiring from Navy service well before their expected service lifetimes; some of the boats are quite new, and all are modern in capability. Should the Empire be interested in acquiring any submarines, we are prepared to transfer the vessels under extremely reasonable terms.

Kindest regards,

Kyriacos Nicolaides
Office of the President CCX Liaison

From: North Defese President Tamthy
To: Emperor of Hamilay


Greetings, it appears North Defese has a surplus of weapons, and I was hoping to negotiate a arms deal?
I will not go into a lot of detail unless im sure you will accept.

Tamthy