NationStates Jolt Archive

The entire colonial operation was to be lead by a stereotypical military man, General Arthur Booke. Booke had no experience in this type of operation whatsoever, so he was happy to have former General Robertson standing beside him, guiding him through the operation. Robertson was the current Viscount of Throppe and while the former President James Andrews ran Orbath, he practically ran Throppe. He also served during the Cripistan conflict, commanding the largest fleet in Orbathian history. He was the only General to have formally commanded forces from outside the Commonwealth of Orbath, commanding hundreds of ships from Anagonia. During his time as operational commander he established several states from anarchy and managed to keep them at peace for quite some time. Robertson was considered an expert on colonization.

Neither man expected any kind of resistance, the continent was unoccupied and from what researchers indicated, had been for quite some time. Regardless, both men knew the importance of having security, that fact could be shown by the sheer number of ships that surrounded the flagship, the ONS Vigilance. From the decks of ships, helicopters landed and took off, transporting units of soldiers to the claim, mostly to the borders. These units would establish themselves at select locations along the claim's border or construct landing pads or runways. Eventually a more advanced border security system would be constructed, but for the time being, the current one would due.

All along the border, platoons and companies constructed camps. The camps certainly weren't fancy, consisting of a command tent, mess tent and sleeping tents for the soldiers. Some of the camps also had light vehicles for patrolling, while others had dirt landing pads to allow helicopters to drop off supplies or to infiltrate or exfiltrate soldiers.

Despite the less than cozy conditions, the morale of the soldiers were high. This was the first time in many years Orbath had even been remotely close to any military action, so the soldiers welcomed the chance to do something. Most of the soldiers manning the border were Orbathians. The Thropps were held back, they would focus more on their own colony. The Royal Orbathian Foreign Legions was also kept back. They had more experience in other fields and would be better suited to provide defense to convoys later on.

St. Myhre, Delesa

There were several folders on Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chase Surreal’s desk when he arrived in the morning to begin his day. On top large red letters were stamped across the cover, ‘Urgent’. He took time to hang his coat and place his brief case beside the coffee table, where he switched the coffee machine on. He thought about a glass of famous Quebec Whiskey, brewed in the province island of Quebec, but he shook it off, as it was even too early for him. He sat down in his chair finally with his hands wrapped firmly around his mug. Winter had begun to set in on the capital and with it the bone chilling mornings and evenings. He at last opened the folder and begun to read, right after picking up his phone to call the Prime Minister.

Port Hustlings, Delesa

Home to the Royal Commonwealth Navy, and the hub naval port for civilian cargo vessels and passenger liners; it was one of the most diverse and largest cities in the entire Commonwealth. The port facilities were hundreds of years in the making, playing a major part in every war the Commonwealth got into, serving as a rally point, even large clashes.

Rear Admiral Adam Young was far from young. He was rather old, close to his 43rd birthday, his hair was salt and pepper, he had developed a hunch in the last several months that made him look much older then he really was. He was vividly scared of Doctors and refused to go to the hospital even after the pleas of his wife.

He wore his white naval peak cap, and the black trench coat as we walked along on of the piers in the Royal Navy’s section of Port Hustlings. It was calm out; the cold weather kept many of the usually busy people inside until the sun rouse a little to warm the air. There was the old man on the decks of few of the many ships completing various tasks.

Ahead was the HMDS. Domicile, a Wasp Class Amphibious Assault ship, the flagship of his fleet, which was more of a rapid response land assault force rather then a fleet. It had several newer Albion Class Landing Platform Vessels, which formed the base of the fleet.

Young could hear the rapid sound of footsteps behind him, someone was running after him, so he picked up his pace, being sure not to make it obvious, just to make the person run a little further as he was certain it wasn’t anyone to kill him… Then again there were Confederate spies everywhere, ready to knock off high officers. He grasped the small Berretta in coat pocket.

“Sir! Admiral Young, Sir!” a female hollered.

Christ, it’s no assassin, he chuckled as he looked over his shoulder. Crap, she does look like she’s from HQ dressed like that… He was referring to the high heels and shirt. Naval women on duty based on a ship, the yards, or even in harbor tended to avoid the skirt for work, and wore it for office use. He thought about quickly shooter her before she announced he was being forced into retirement or that the fleet was taking another financial hit from the government. He was laughing out loud by the time the officer caught up.

“Sir, orders sir. Just came across the wire, we tried your home but your wife told us you left already.”

“Here I am. You’ve caught me now.”

“There was a bulletin posted by the nation Orbath. Seemed they discovered a remote and uninhabited island. Orders are to make best speed and claim a piece of it in the name of the Commonwealth.”

“Hmmm how long has this been out to the world?”

“Not long, but other nations are already making a move, the Naval Board suggests leaving ASAP. You should have sufficient stores already stocked on board for that upcoming exercise in the Virgin Isles.”

“Aye, the day before last we finished.”

“Good then you leave today. Your complement of marines will have to suffice until we can assemble a larger force. A patrol of frigates has already arrived on scene and is awaiting your arrival. Expect a week before a carrier force arrives with the necessary men power to proper assist in establishing towns and such. Good luck Admiral, the Commonwealth needs this new source of income. Don’t let the Confederates get hold of it first…” She saluted his, and then tore off running back down the pier. In his hand was an envelope she had handed to him. He peeked inside and saw they were his official orders.

Novus Orsa

A pair of MV-22 Osprey aircraft zipped over the sea, closing in towards the shore. Several CH-46 Sea Knights and CH-53E Sea Stallions flew in a giant formation lumbering slowly behind. A flight of four F-35 Lightning II joint strike fighters flew high above providing cover and support for any possible situations. On the deck of the Domicile, another group was preparing itself, including the remaining Sea Stallions, Sea Knights, and now the ships complement of H-1W Super Cobras.

On the sea, the three Albion Class platform dock vessel begun to spit out 12 LCVP infantry transports and 12 LCU transports with a Leopard 2A6 each inside along with more infantry from the ships’ marine contingent.

Not before long a beachhead was secured, the tanks rumbling inland, followed by the infantry who either ran behind or for the lucky few hitched a ride on top. Above the helicopters flew low over head, the infantry on the beach cheering at the men in the air, them cheering down at them. They flew further inland, found reasonably open terrain and put down, the marines disembarked and begun securing the area. The F-35s buzzed the ground troops in celebration. Within the hour a tent city had erected itself just inland and Admiral Young had come ashore to inspect the Commonwealth’s newest addition.

Meanwhile it was slow going as a company of marines from the Domicile continued north into the jungle, followed by just two Leopards. A company supported by another two Leopards searched northwest, and another group northeast. It was four days of consent rotation and continuous exploration before they reached the rivers to the east and west.

Xianggang, Guangdong Province, China, Stoklomolvi Federation

"Load up the ships!"

Thousands of settlers, dressed in various styles of attire ranging from rags and dirty sacks to elegant, clean, and expensive suits. Infantry paraded about as the colonists watched on, looking at the huge crates and vehicles being loaded onto the ship. Many were present to buy some land for their summer homes; others were in search of new lives and decided to leave mainland Stoklomolvi for greener pastures. The Stoklomolvi Military Marching Band played an assortment of patriotic songs, from "March of Stalin's Artillery" to the "Anthem of the Communist Dominion of Stoklomolvi" to the "Volga Boatman."

The crowd cheered as the marching ended and the infantry boarded the transport ships. Several dozen Type 5 MBTs rolled onto huge ramps and also entered the transports, each as large as a supertanker capable of carrying over 550,000 metric tonnes of deadweight. There were three transports: the SCS [Stoklomolvi Civilian Ship] Terra Incognita, the SCS Ulyanovsk, and the SCS Novosibirsk. Once one of the transports was filled with military equipment and infantry, it was towed out of the extremely deep port out to sea. The SCS Ulyanovsk was then towed in, and through a very, very slow process all three ships were loaded by the end of the third day. Afterwards, they set sail, moving through the Straits of Malacca and rounding the Cape of Africa to the great portal in centre of the Atlantic Ocean that would take them to the actual NSEarth instead of Earth A045.

Novopetrograd, Novus Orsa

Four Mil Mi-8 helicopters, carrying scouts and small numbers of infantry, flew across the sea after taking off from the SCS Terra Incognita and landed in a small plain. In the distance, a small native village could be seen, its inhabitants completely unaware of the great colonisation taking place by several world powers. The three supertransports lumbered along, and after several hours they just ploughed into the coast, ripping up the previously pristine beach and tearing down two stands of trees. The fronts of the transports opened, the huge steel gates smashing the grass into powder and mud. The transported people poured out, surveying the land. A crane aboard the SCS Ulyanovsk unloaded several Quonset huts, and quickly a few dozen people set up a small camp.

OCC: you guys can have my claim, im to bsuy.

The New Great Monastery, Nantucket Island, the Beatus

The monastery more resembled a fort, than a place of worship with its high, gray stone walls. It was dark outside, and the Nor'easter that was raging, made the many oil lamps fairly useless. The effects of the storm went unnoticed to three boys, who sat at a wooden table in a room deep within the monestary, far below the ground. They were looking over satellite maps, which had been unrolled on the table, by the light of an oil lamp hanging from the ceiling. "There is much work to do, however, this spot seems ideal," said on of the men, who wore a dirty brown robe.
"Are you sure, Brother Jobe?" another, who was wearing a clean white robe, with gold trim.
"Yes, I am Brother Kyle," the man in the brown robe replied. "What think you, Brother Ben?"
"I shall do my best," replied Brother Ben coldly. His robe was black, with red trim. His face was hidden in the shadow of his hood. "When do I leave?"
"First think tomorrow," brother Kyle replied.

Höfn Harbor, Straumur Province, the Beatus

A large ship was docked at the harbor, and many hundreds were on the dock, gathering up their luggage, making sure they packed everything, saying goodbye to loved ones, and wondering if they left the stove on at home. Most of them, were bound for a new continent, and new adventures, others were just there to say goodbye, they would be forced to enjoy this new continent by proxy, through the letters, and telegrams of their loved ones. Still others, were just hanging around, for the buzz, that one could archive in the mists of all the excitement. Brother Ben, sat in his cabin already, he had boarded long before the crowds arrived, and would remain in the cabin for the entirety of the voyage. Most of the people on the ship, would never see him, only the few who held rank in the church, who had been sent to oversee the colony, would see him. He would be in charge, though if you asked the average person on the ship, they would say differently. Depending on the progress, he may revel himself soon, or he may not. Soon, the ship sounded its loud horn, call all passengers to hurry up and board, lest they be left behind, when the ship pulled out. Fifteen minutes later, the ship was pulling away from the dock, and moving out into the bay, then the open ocean, and it's voyage to Novus Orsa would be well underway.

OOC: I'm not skipping ahead, this is a continuation to my first post to write in the natives.

Border Patrol Base 129, Eastern Border, Orbath Minor
BPB 129 was a smaller base, owing to the fact that it sat west of an area which Stoklomolvi had planned to claim and therefore, less security was required on that front. BPB 129 had only recently received its unit's vehicles, something that had proven tricky due to the absence of any area suitable for the vehicles to be put down in. Something several engineers rectified by spending a few hours with chainsaws, machetes and flamethrowers. Since the base was small and the jungle dense, officers saw little need for too many vehicles, most of the area could only be patrolled on foot. It really didn't matter much anyway, the border would likely be secure with or without them.

Bravo Section, 1st Platoon
Eight members of Bravo Platoon made their way through a fertile valley, six kilometers from BPB 129. They had only just rotated onto patrol duties, something most really weren't interested in. They knew that back at the base, one section would be enjoying so rest and relaxation and the other unit would likely be doing the same. After all they had enough supplies for a week, so they likely wouldn't have any work to do recovering supplies.

Each man kept his eyes fixed on the area they were responsible for covering, keeping their hands firmly on their weapons, ready to bring them to bare on an enemy, should the need arise. Despite being in a lush green valley, full of bright sunshine, there was something eerie about the whole situation. First was the absence of wildlife. Around the base they could always hear the sound of birds and insects. Out here they heard nothing. As they ventured farther away from the base, many members could feel the tingle at the back of their necks, a sure sign they were being watched. Nobody said anything about this, they just kept a closer watch, tightening their grips on their weapons and raising them slightly.

As they climbed the hill at the end of the valley and traveled into a more open area of ground, the section leader spotted something. A flash of something, a skin tone amongst the greens of the foliage. He halted them, keeping his rifle trained at the area he had seen the flash, taken aback by the fact that he'd actually encountered something. He froze, trying to decide whether to call out or try to get closer, he wasn't sure if what he saw was even a human. Perhaps it was some undiscovered animal.

As the team remained motionless, weapons held high, figures came out of the trees surrounding them. They were unaware of the soldiers presence, having just finished a hunting expedition. The soldiers froze and before anyone could give any orders, several of the natives spotted them.

Look of shear terror appeared on their faces. For hundreds, maybe even thousands of years their race had never come into contact with humans or human influence. The natives didn't know that anyone or anything outside their continent existed, save what their religion told them.

Part of the reason they were so scared was because of their religion. For the past week the natives had spotted massive noisy birds overhead, often times circling above them, a sure omen the end was near. Their religion told them that this was one of the signs that their end was near. Another sign was the appearance of ghosts, leaving their homes in the haunted lands to destroy them.

The soldiers looked like them, except their skin was much whiter, pale like that of the dead. The natives were sure they had been confronted by ghosts. They dropped their weapons and spoils from the hunt, crashing through the jungle towards their village to warn the others. The farther away from the haunted lands they got, the safer they would be.

The soldiers were shocked, however since the men had dropped their weapons, which weren't really a threat anyway, they couldn't engage them, not that they wanted to. Their findings were reported back to General Brooke who decided that they posed little threat, seeing as they hadn't been spotted at all by recce flights, meaning their numbers were very small, at least in Orbath Minor.

NOC-02 "Dhurga"

70 NCTs and 2 Bodyguards jumped down from the helicopters as ships started to dock at the newly-constructed colony of NOC-02, unofficially named "Dhurga". The Bodyguards stayed behind while 50 NCTs scouted out the area. They had a claim to an entire quarter of the new continent, but they hadn't fully scouted it out yet; that was why the governing body had restricted themselves to a quarter. The remaining NCTs started pitching up tents.

2 hours later

NCT Squad 008292 "Beta Omega Alpha Zeta" had absolutely no encounters- until now. They found natives staring at their uniforms; they covered the NCTs fully and made them look damned formidable. The natives, who were investigating the source of the noise made by blank-firing tests NCTs did on the run, dropped their weapons and ran screaming.

"Alright, looks like the natives are scared of us now. Just great. Get the general on the radio.", the leader of BeOmAlZe said. "Yessir."

Dhurga

"Natives? Great. Send a diplomacy team."

Klug Tock Colony, Novus Orsa

As the ship neared the mainland, the passengers were cleared from the deck, under the suggestion that they ensure that their bags were packed, and they were ready to disembark when the ship reached it's destination. Once the passengers had been cleared, Brother Ben, emerged from his cabin, and was escorted, by several priors, and parsons, to a waiting UH-1H helicopter, from which he would personally survey the new colony. Once the chopper was loaded, it lifted off from the deck of the ship, and began it's survey of the island.

Day 2
Border
It had taken only one day for the border patrol bases to be established and a beach head to be secured. These tasks were originally supposed to take a few days, so Booke and Robertson were very pleased. From the decks of the amphibious assault ships, various types of helicopters took off, bringing equipment and engineers to the border patrol bases. Once there the engineers would begin work on a defense system consisting mostly of chain link fencing, remote cameras and later, UAVs. In a few select locations, light armored vehicles with plows were brought in and some BPBs were connected by road to each other. In one select location south of the border, many helicopters began dropping vehicles, engineers and supplies into the jungle. These men would begin construction on the northern most town, which for a while would serve almost entirely as a military base, including runways and hangers, allowing for Orbath to eventually establish an in-country air force presence, rather than relying on costly air craft carriers.

Beach Head
Slightly north of the beach a large area of jungle had been cleared allowing engineers to erect a temporary base consisting of mostly tents and prefabricated structures. More engineers began work on an airfield to the northwest which would allow for civilian workers to enter the claim and assist them on constructing a port to the south. At the same time, engineers began working on the port, knowing that their efforts would soon be sped up by the civilian workers who would begin arriving.

ONS Vigilance
Booke and Robertson sipped from tall mugs of coffee while carefully monitoring a touch screen map which displayed the locations of dozens of helicopters moving about the colony. Robertson was quite stunned, he knew technology like this existed by during his time in the Navy it had never been installed on any ships. He was amazed at how easy it was to use, expecting it to be much more confusing and complicated as he brought up a panel which allowed the type of helicopter to be displayed on the map above the helicopter's ''blip''.

He could see about twelve cargo helicopters, these carried scientists, researchers and planners who would be surveying the colony in an attempt to figure out what areas held what resources and where towns and cities should go. This wasn't something he was used to, having never actually had to start from scratch when it came to creating a colony. Another dozen or so blips showed attack helicopters. These helicopters flew low over the jungle, using their FLIR in an attempt to locate native populations that had been missed by higher flying reconnaissance aircraft during the initial planning phase of the operation. So far pilots had reported to him that most of the natives appeared to be moving, quite rapidly towards the borders. They couldn't be totally sure where they were going, not wanting to infringe on the other nation's claims by traveling over the border.

En route to Novus Orsa

"OK men. I realize you arn't in the military, but I expect nothing less then military precision on this job." Said Major Joost Nilsson, speaking to the group of geologic engineers assembled before him. The men grumbled, having heard it all before. This was not their first time flying together into an unknown land. The men went back to work, tapping quietly at their laptops and pouring over satellite maps. Their job was to predict where certain valuable substances, such as oil, existed in this colony, as a way of determining if the cost of securing the land militarily would be reciprocated in extraction profits.

Keupir Ridge, Novus Orsa

The helicopter thundered over the jungle below, heading for the bare apex of the ridge that ran like a compound fracture through the jungle. As it settled, the engineers stepped out, carrying bags of surveying equipment. They spread out over the area, attempting to confirm their hypothesis. After three hours of work, they returned to the helicopter. It took off, heading for the next site that they planned to visit.

Alpha Camp

"Major Nilsson, please hold. Mr. Fallaci will be with you in a moment." Said Orlando Fallaci's secretary, speaking though the satellite phone from his office across the world.

"Major Nilsson? Have you and you team finished the survey?" Said Fallaci, after a short pause.

"We have sir." Replied Nilsson

"Well, what did you find"

"I believe that the lead engineer, Niklas Becker, is in the best position to explain." Said Nilsson, stepping back to allow Becker to step closer to the phone.

"Hello Mr. Fallaci. We have found, in our preliminary survey, evidence of a petroleum field, that may hold over 100 billion barrels."

Fallaci was silent for a moment.

"Get an extraction team there now. I want everything we've got over there now."

"There's a slight problem Mr. Fallaci."

"And what is that?"

"Only half of the oil field is under Kereptecean control."

"I still want everything we've got drilling. We've just got to extract as much as possible before anyone else starts."

"Yes sir."

"Good. The military will be arriving soon to secure the area, and set up a preliminary extraction point"

"We'll continue surveying in the meantime then?"

"Yes Becker. Continue the survey."

Fort Uric, Colona Orsatk

In the three days that had passed since the surveyors had handed in their report, much had changed in the Kereptecean claimed section of Novus Orsa. The first of the 10,000 soldiers of the newly created Colonial Corps had landed, setting up a main camp, which they called Fort Uric, at a strategic point inland from the original beachhead where the engineers had landed. In addition to this, teams were heading out in helicopters, clearing patches of jungle for advance bases and radar stations. The drilling team, under the employ of Peninsula Petroleum, the largest oil manufacturer in New Kereptica, had set up a main camp, from which they sent out additional survey teams to find the most efficient point for extraction. High above the colony, aircraft were patrolling the land, mapping the area with highly sensitive cameras. The work went slowly. It was not easy hacking through the jungle to build roads, much less clearing tens of acres for tent-space and an airfield.

Commonwealth Colony, Novus Orsa

Down on the landing site, plans were underway to turn the tent city into the capital city. Over the next days, contractors from the North-West Trading Company began arriving and constructing buildings and an artificial port facility. Once the port the port was finished, even more supplies would be able to come in, as well as landing immigrants to colonize the lands.

Meanwhile to the north, several teams were continuing their push inland. The Leopard 2 tanks where equipped with a bulldozer blade and more exterior lights so the crews could work through the night.

Since the arrival of the Admiral Macbeth’s Carrier Force, there was an increase of equipment available and additional manpower for the crews. The first task was to scout the area, and claim a boundary for the Commonwealth, a task suited to the 3rd Royal Delesian Special Airborne Reconnaissance Regiment’s Pathfinders. In teams of two to four soldiers, they were inserted by chopper, scouted for a week, and then extracted by a chopper. Then the Leopards follow them in, creating crude roads with their bulldozer blade, supported by a platoon of infantry. In the following weeks, as more cities and towns are established, the important highways and roads would be strengthened and then paved over.

In the northwest, the pathfinders had run into a large river, and after scouting it, found that another country had ‘claimed’ that side. They made no attempt to communicate at the moment, command said they would like to establish defences first incase the suspects were aggressive. Leopard teams had raced to create roads to the river bend, which was soon followed by construction crews with the materials to create concrete bunkers.

To the northeast another river was found, and although the pathfinders were unable to locate any resistance on the opposite side, command again ordered the construction of bunkers as the river offered an excellent defensive obstacle, and should the Commonwealth advance over the line, it could act as a second line of defence of the capital city.

Meanwhile between the two rivers, there was open ground per say. The rivers didn’t connect, so it offered a land bridge from the Commonwealth Colony to the rest of the island, but it was packed with dense jungle forests, of which the Leopard crews had been unable to penetrate with any real gain. The soldiers had even come to believe the land was cursed, as equipment was constantly breaking down, and several men had contracted serious deceases. Even the wild life seemed to be attacking the crews, as numerous brave monkeys ventured into camps and stole food, clothes and really anything they could carry away.

Then there was always the suspicious and mysterious characters that lurked in the forest, of which the soldiers had yet to identify, but knew they were there.

H-92 Superhawk Multi-Mission Helicopter
Over the ‘Contested Zone’ known to the Commonwealth as Prince Rupert's Land

Two squads of ten men where seated comfortably in the back of the H-92 Superhawk. It wasn’t equipped with any weapons, as this wasn’t a combat patrol, there had been no need for the U-60 Blackhawks with their side door machine guns or the lighter CH-146 Griffon. The H-92 was more for SAR (Search and Rescue) missions, which better suited this unknown terrain equipped with a hydraulically powered rescue hoist.

In the Commonwealth Armed Forces, the H-92 Superhawk was replacing the older CH-149 Cormorant, but it was still in the trial process, and with the conquest of the new colony, it offered real life situations of which the H-92 could be tried. So far the helicopter worked with perfect precision.

Captain James O’Connell was watching the ground, taking pictures which a digital camera. “It’s not everyday you get to see a forest like that! The canopy stretches for miles!” he exclaimed to the lieutenant flying the helicopter.

“Captain, we are nearing the DZ, but I don’t see any where we can put this puppy down.”

“Over there. That looks like an opening, head over there.” The lieutenant banked the helicopter in the direction the captain was pointing. Suddenly a bullet pierced lieutenant’s side window, but the glass remained intact, apart from the small hole. A barrage of hundreds quickly followed the single shot. Panic broke out in the cockpit. “What the fuck is going on? Evasive maneuvers, more attitude!” Instead the chopper continued it’s decent, the captain looked to his right and saw the lieutenant’s body limp in his seat, only held up by his four point harness. “Mary and Joseph!” He switched on the intercom. “This is the captain speaking, we are taking fire, ground targets, co-pilot hit, condition unknown. Lost a lot of altitude, and the tail rotor non-responsive, won’t make it back to camp. I’m putting it down, no guarantees. Brace yourselves.” He sent out a mayday on all channels giving his position, and the approximate position he planned to put the bird down. He then turned he attention away from the radio, and put all this attention and effort in the flight controls of the chopper. He continued to wrestle the controls as the Superhawk jerked and bounced uncontrollably.

The tail rotor couldn’t handle the stress and an entire portion of the rear tail broke off, sending the chopper into a terrify spin. O’Connell was being forced to the right of his harness, his hand unable to reach the controls as the chopper continued its dizzying clockwise spin.

The Superhawk never reached its intended crash point, rather plummeted to the earth in between and to the left of his original mayday position and his intended crash point. As the fuselage hit the canopy, the strong branches ripped the helicopter apart, exposing many of the passengers to the outside, ripping some from their seats. But between the branches and thick vines, it managed to slow the decent quiet a bit, but the force of the crash split the remainder of the chopper in two, the rear part and most of the passenger cabin tangled in a web of vines high in the tree, the front fell nose first through the remaining layers of forest. O’Connell managed to avoid slipping into blackout during the flight and watched as the whole debacle unfolded. He had a front row seat to the final nose first dive, and raised his arms to cover his face, "Christ almighty..." he mumbled, in the final seconds before the battered chopper smacked the ground.

Over a month, more and more pioneers landed and started turning the primitive NOC-02 and NOC-03 into something worthy. With the help of the natives, they now knew everything about the continent. And now it was time to meet the other colonists on the island.
General Transmission
Hello. We wish to meet with whoever else is on this island and perhaps discuss trade, peace or alliances.

A lone Blackhawk helicopter flew mere feet above the jungle canopy carrying a section of Orbathian troops destined for a period of R&R aboard the Wasp Class they had deployed from at the beginning of the operation. Most of the men were rather tired, having just conducted a long patrol in previously untouched territory. They were also hungry, the patrol had taken them longer than expected, forcing them to miss lunch. As the men sat in the back of the helicopter, wiping their brows and sharing several small snacks amongst themselves, the pilot received a mayday message from a Delesean helicopter which was about to make a crash landing in contested territory. The pilot relayed the message to the ONS Vigilance which sent a message to Delesea.

''Approximately five minutes ago, an Orbathian cargo helicopter received a mayday from one of your helicopters which has apparently gone down in the contested zone. We are requesting permission to provide aid to them.''

The pilot and soldiers waited in suspense, sitting on their edge of their seats hoping for the chance to do something.

ONS Vigilance
The two Generals sat comfortably in front of a large display reading over the days news from Orbath. As they sipped from coffee and smoked cigars, the news page was replaced by a transmission. One of the nations colonizing the continent, Niraamaya, wanted to discuss trade, peace or alliances. Of course, neither the Orbathian or Throppe colony was close to completion and none had an elected official. Luckily, military officers in Orbath received training in diplomacy so they could act as representatives abroad. That training would allow both men to conduct negotiations with Niraamaya. Both men typed a reply and sent it.

To: Niraamaya
From: General Arthur Brooke, Theater Commander.
Commander In Chief, General Arnold Robertson, The Right Honorable Viscount of Throppe, Throppe Operations Commander.

Although we have not yet fully established ourselves as colonies we would be more than happy to discuss anything you wish. We would prefer to remain on board our flagship, the Invincible Class, ONS Vigilance which has all the necessary facilities, however, should you insist we can conduct our meetings somewhere else.

Klug Tock Colony, Novus Orsa

It had been a week since the ship had arrived. The passengers had used small boats to move from it to the land. For the first few nights, they slept in tents on the coast, while working during the day. The sound of chainsaws, and falling trees could be heard for miles, as they began gathering supplies. By the fourth day, a spot had been chosen for a city. It was far inland, in the mountains, over looking the east most river valley. Wooden houses were soon constructed. They were simple, however, and lacked basic necessities, such as electricity, and indoor plumbing. By the sixth day, all 300 inhabitants of the new colony, had a place to live. Brother Ben, following his helicopter tour, remained on the ship, off the coast. On the seventh day, a site was chosen to harvest limestone, and a quarry established, while land was cleared for the monastery. Word was spreading from those who went out to gather wood, and limestone, of strange beings in the woods. Like humans, only wilder, and more savage. None of these rumors had yet to be substantiated, however. By the end of the month, the Monastery was nearing completion, and Brother Ben, had moved from the ship, to his new residence, in it's subbasement. Generators, and other equipment had be moved from the ship, providing the monastery with limited power, and a full communications array. A landing strip had been cleared, nearby, and a dirt path to it, so supplies could be flown in. When the message was received, requesting, a meeting, Brother Ben, summoned Parson Briggs.

Brother Ben's Quarters, Klug Tock Monastery

Brother Ben sat in his study. It was dimly lit by the light of a candle that would soon burn itself out. The walls had portraits, and paintings, including hand drawn maps of the Beatus, and it's colonies, and a portrait of Edwardo Listless. There were also many high resolution satellite photos, depicting the island, the most recent of which, depicted, many small population centers taking shape, including their own. There were book cases, and other odd items, all around. When Parson Briggs arrived, Brother Ben was recording something in a journal. When he noticed Parson Briggs, he shut the journal, placed it in his desk draw, and locked the draw using a key he wore around his neck. "Parson Briggs," Brother Ben started. "Do you know why I have called you here?"
"To serve the Great Bob, and due my duty to him," replied Parson Briggs, cheerily.
"Yes, yes," replied Brother Ben, cringing at the Parsons cheeriness. "We have received a message, from," he shuffled some papers around on his desk before picking one up, and reading from it, "Nir-a-am-a-yans," he sounded out, still unsure of the pronunciation. "They seem to want a meeting, and I have chosen you to represent our colony at this meeting."
"It is the will of Bob," replied Parson Briggs, with a smile.
"You leave immediately," Brother Ben said, in his normal, cheerless, tone. "Here is a packet on what we know about them, and what you can negotiation with, and for," he continued, handing a file folder to the Parson. "Good luck, and and may Bob be with you."
"And also with you, Brother," the Parson replied, taking the package. Moments later, he left the monastery with his bags, wearing his best white traveling robes. He mounted the white horse that was waiting for him, and was off, towards, NOC-02.

General Transmission
We will meet at any place you wish.

"Wake up, you're our diplomat for the day." "Now? Why does it have to be me?" "You know all you're supposed to, and we don't have to pay you. Now get up."

Both Generals were happy to have received the latest message. They were pleased to have the opportunity to build ties for both of their nations and for their colonies. Booke typed a response back.

To: Niraamaya
From: General Arthur Booke, Theater Commander.
I have notified the air boss on our flagship that you will be arriving soon. Have a safe journey.

A tug moved slowly towards the flagship, with a diplomat in it, ready to negotiate.

OOC: By tug you mean a tugboat right?

It was rather odd choice of vessel to carry a diplomat and it would make it somewhat tricky to get the diplomat on board. A single Blackhawk helicopter with a basket took off from the carrier deck while a small Yanitarian made patrol boat moved into position a few meters from the tug. Using a set of pulleys to ensure that the basket wouldn't become tangled up in the tug's antennas and such, the helicopter lowered a basket, allowing the diplomat to climb inside.

He got into it, and was carried over to the flagship, saying to himself, "Damn cheapskate Governor, giving me a tugboat to meet a General..."

On board the flagship

"Hello. Are you General Arthur Booke? I'm here to discuss a trade agreement and perhaps some form of alliance."

Both Generals had met the man on the flight deck, both donning their best military uniforms, Booke in his Orbathian Naval uniform and Robertson in a Throppe Naval uniform. Both men led the diplomat into the bowels of the ship, down many halls and up and down several flights of stairs, twisting, turning, climbing and descending. After what might have seemed like quite a long time but was really only a couple minutes, the two Generals led the diplomat into a small room. In the center of the room was a long black table. On both sides of the table sat very high-backed black chairs. The room's walls were painted black, giving off quite an eerie feeling. They didn't mean to make the man uncomfortable, the room was usually used for interrogations, but it was the smallest room and would allow for a more personal discussion.

After the diplomat had seated himself, the two Generals did the same in seats across the table from him. Booke spoke first, his deep voice echoing throughout the room.

''I'm pleased to have you on board sir. I understand you would like to discuss some items. I'm sure we both have business to attend to, so I don't mean to pressure you, but please, feel free to get right to the point, I assure you I won't be offended.''

Robertson nodded in agreement, taking his eyes off the man to grab three glasses and a bottle of liquor from a stand which had just been wheeled over by one of several naval officers standing guard around the room.

"Okay, thanks. The Governor wishes to set up trade between us. We're running short of oil and some colonists have started to complain about the lack of luxuries like soap. Also, we think that an alliance could be set up. We're worried that someone would attack us at any time in this delicate stage, and therefore we need somebody to fall back on just in case. We only have about 72 soldiers on base at one time." the diplomat said, taking a light sip from the glass and taking a breath.

Beatusian/Niraamayan Colonial Boarder

Parson Briggs rode across an invisible line, marking the boundary between the two colonies. His mission had been deemed extremely important, and as such, he had been given the finest horse in the whole colony. It was difficult travel, with no roads, or paths. He soon hoped to reach someone, in the foreign colony. The message they had received had been short, and vague, not mentioning a location, or anything like that. So on he rode, into the unknown.

Novopetrograd, Novus Orsa

The new settlement soon grew into a large town, population 72,000. Food from the supercarriers was starting to diminish, with only enough food to last a year. Three agricultural spires, each one over 700m tall, were begun using steel and concrete brought on the carriers. Quonset huts lined a huge, matted line of dirt, with engineers and labourers digging holes and filling them with cement for a future pipe system. An aquifer was tapped and a water pump foundation laid out on paper. A location for a future concrete wall was marked using small sticks. Labourers dug a trench outside the city to prevent wild animals from easily entering.

Several armoured cars were unloaded, and driven around the island, without regard for borders. The native village was visited by three officials, and eventually a location outside the village was selected for a trading post.

Booke and Robertson listened intently to the man and were shocked when he told them about their number of troops.The two men looked at each other, then Booke spoke,

''In regards to oil, we have located a number of sites within our colony that will be able to provide oil, some of which will be needed by the colony, some will be needed back home. What is left however, I would be most interested in trade. Would your colony or nation like to buy the oil outright? Orbath needs money now more than anything....''

Booke then turned to Robertson who cleared his throat,

''In regards to your defense, Orbath usually isn't in the business of making promises in regards to defense, though I assure you, if we did, we would certainly fulfill it, loyalty is one of our strongest traits. The thing is, I have some pull with two of the nations on this continent, not nearly as much as I used too, but I still have some. I can't promise that they wouldn't attack you, but provided they had no good reason, I can promise I would use the power of my pen to stop them. As for the other two and the natives, I've had no experience with them, so I'm not sure if they are a threat.''

Robertson paused and the room became silent for a matter of seconds while he let what he had just said sink in.

''I can safely tell you that 72 troops is not going to be effective, not even against the natives. While your claim might be small, 72 troops cannot defend it. I'm sure you know that. You certainly seem like the type of nation we could get along with, however, our lack of interaction in the past and financial means that I can't help you without at least some sort of incentive.''

He paused again. reaching down to pick up the brandy sniffer glass, swishing the fine liquid around in the glass before taking a sip. It had been quite awhile since he'd had a drink like this. Orbathians & Throppes weren't allowed to drink while on duty, however, diplomatic meetings allowed them the chance to do so, since it was somewhat of a custom and it gave the chance for Orbath to show off it's class.

''What I'm trying to say is, unless we receive something in return, preferably payment in cash, I'm sorry to say, as much as I would like to, I won't be able to help you. Now Orbath does maintain a unit of foreign soldiers which we could provide to you at a cheaper cost than our regular soldiers.''

Robertson and Booke both waited for the man's reply.
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Throughout the colony, things were still going ahead of schedule. Border defenses had been completely finished, with cameras always watching the border. The terrain made it hard to line the whole border with chain link fencing, so patrols would always be needed, especially in those areas. UAVs would make this easier, having the ability to spot any threat and alert BPBs.

More roads were also built, further linking BPBs to each other. Although not every base could be connected to the terrain, many had been completed. Not only would these roads allow troops and supplies to travel between them, it also meant that more vehicles could be brought in and more land could be patrolled by vehicle, thus eliminating the need for as many troops.

South of the northern border the military base/city was beginning to take shape. Many runways had been built in addition to roads and even a bridge. Several of these roads connected to BPBs, while other branched out not more than a kilometer outside the city, to later be connected to other towns and cities. Once more of a civilian population was established, the base/city would probably become Orbath Minor's trade capital and should the other nations allow it, Orbath Minor's roads could be connected to theirs, allowing for trade across the border by truck and perhaps later by train.

For now though, civilian engineers worked tirelessly constructing homes and buildings to be used as stores and government buildings. Several hundred buildings had already been constructed, however many more would be needed. Military engineers focused on the defense the city, constructing a large cement wall with cameras around it. Inside the walls several areas were established which would later be used for artillery and air defense vehicles and buildings. For now the city would be like a fortress, but eventually as the land became more populated and better defended, defenses could be relaxed.

In four locations west of the city, civilian engineers guarded by Orbathian troops began work on four mining towns, constructing homes and buildings for miners, civil servants and their families to live in. Military engineers cleared paths through the jungle, interlinking the towns and connected them to the base/city to their east.

To the south and est of the city, much the same thing happened as in the west, except this time small towns were built to house people and their families who would begin work in the oil fields. workers from several oil companies had constructed drills and pumping would begin soon.

In the south the port had been completed and many buildings had been constructed. The soldiers that had once defended and lived on the beach now moved to the port, assisting in building up the city around. It was currently the largest settlement established in Orbath Minor. An airfield was also built, once north of the settlement, houses and buildings now surrounded it, testament of the growth of the port. Military engineers also constructed defenses, establishing fire bases for artillery, smaller pieces for use on land and larger pieces for defending the waters. A military base was also built there, owning a small piece of the port. Soon they would have a coastal defense element present, but for the time being, the base housed only army personnel.

In Throppe Minor, the Throppes conducted their own amphibious assault, capturing a beach head and beginning construction on a port, aided by the Orbathians. No Throppe civilians had landed yet but soo the coast would be lined by small fishing villages.

Klug Tock Colony, Novus Orsa

The main settlement's name had been chosen. It would be call, Bristol. Bristol was growing rapidly, though mainly upwards, as it's location in the mountains, made outward expansion difficult. Already a large section of forest had been clear cut. A mills were processing the wood, and large warehouses were filled with with wood, and stone blocks from the quarry. The airstrip had been paved with asphalt, and a control tower built. The monastery had been finished, and it's bell tolled every hour, on the hour, audible through the valley. Meanwhile, the planning of two new projects were underway. The first of which, was a dam, that would create an artificial lake, and provide irrigation water for farmland in the area. The second was a sewer system for the city, with an extensive drain system, that would carry the wastewater of the city miles away, and dump it into a river that flows out of the colony. The dam, which is planned to be built first, will prevent the wastewater from somehow backing up into the other rivers in the colony. The streets of the city were made of cobblestone, and horses had been found locally. There was little to no contact with the natives, however, traps had been set up on paths, which the natives might use. They had also been set up traps on any paths that were wide enough for a vehicle to travel on. They wouldn't be noticeable to anyone, unless they were standing on top of them, and by then, they would be falling into a 6 foot deep pit.

[OOC: Map http://img367.imageshack.us/img367/7870/newcolonymapoo5.png

Black line=dam
Blue splotch=new lake
Purple dot=City
Pink Line=sewer line]

Novus Orsa
Prince Rupert Land

With the rapid construction of the military facilities on the mainland, due to construction issues, technical problems and general work overload for the workers, the command for the theatre of operations was still handled by the crew of the Nimitz class carrier, HMDS. Norfolk. Not surprisingly with all the activity in and around the island by several nations, the command room was a busy little hive. And it wasn’t a surprise that when the helicopter called out a mayday the crew was a little more then surprised. First by the fact that no one from any nation was known to be operating in the area at the time of the mayday call and second that the bird disappeared from the radar screen so quickly after the call.

The two crews of the SAR (Search and Rescue) team on board the Norfolk were rushed into the sky, operating in Westland Sea Kings. ON a good day they could reach a top speed of 232 km/h but this wasn’t a good day. It was never a good day for the aging helicopters as they were prone to mechanical failure. Pilots were told to take it easy on the throttle. It would be a few minutes before they arrived on scene. Two AH-1Z Vipers were also to provide close support for the SAR helicopters. An additional pair of F/A-18 Es were dispatched to patrol the zone, available for bombing and strafing runs. No body else was going done so easy.

By the time the Orbath message was received and tossed up the ranks, the rescue force was already enroute, but it wouldn’t hurt to have an extra set of eyes in the air.

“Proceed with own discretion, Commonwealth search and rescue dispatched. Await further orders on scene from ranking Commonwealth officer on scene.”

---

Lieutenant Jack Armstrong was in the pilots seat of his four-bladed AH-1Z Viper. On his wing was his wingman, Lieutenant Arnold Crepes. Behind them was the two Westland Sea Kings. They arrived at the GPS coordinates of where the H-92 Superhawk made it’s mayday call. It was green terrain till the horizon. There were no columns of smoke expected from a crash. The helicopters continued on course to where the pilot reported he would try and make it.

About half way there and Lieutenant’s Armstrong Viper was taking fire from ground targets. “Contact made. Taking fire. Advise the King’s to climb to holding position.” He spoke into his mike, remaining calm. The small arms fire was doing little to the Viper, of the few rounds that managed to catch the helicopter.

“Armstrong, I think I got a zero on the enemy. Permission to make a run?”

“Roger that, lead the way.” The Vipers banked to he right, and straightened out. The co-pilots of both Vipers opened up with their 20 mm M197 Gatling guns in the A/A49E-7 turrets the rounds quickly shot out, ripping up the top tree canopy. “Making second run, follow my lead this time.” Armstrong pulled back on the joystick and raised high into the air, whipped the nose around and came back down. He disengaged the safety on the Hydra 70 rockets in their two LAU-68C/A launchers on either side, with seven shots each. As he got close again his co-pilot again opened up with the M197 Gatling gun, depleting the ammo for the gun. Armstrong finally finished off with firing all fourteen Hydra rockets in a large pattern that covered a wider area, his wingman laid down the same fire pattern.

The trees exploded as the pair pulled back on their joysticks, gaining altitude. “Command this is Echo escort 1-2, rounds finished, no sign of the enemy. Returning to rearm, over. Advise the King’s to carry on.”

“Echo 1-2, confirm, return to base. King 1-2 continue on route. Bring those boys home. Advise you have Hornet flight in holding, use as necessary. Advise one friendly UH-60 inbound from the west, nationality Orbath. Copy?”

Captain Richard Moore was the lead Westland Sea King, “Roger that command. Echo 1-2, nice job. King 1-2 continuing on route.” He pulled his King out of holding position high in the sky, and continued to scan the treetops for any sign. They hovered over the intended crash sight for a moment, looking carefully. “Command, King 1-2 here. No sign of the Superhawk at second coordinates. Continuing patrol of the sector.”

---

Corporal William Bunt slowly came to, his head was throbbing, and he could feel the taste of iron in his mouth and his left arm felt incredibly sore. He had bit his tongue sometime during the final spinning moments of the crash. He looked at his left arm and noticed his combat tunic was torn and there was a gash all along his forearm.

He looked around the cabin and noticed the back wall was missing where the tail was supposed to be was missing and the other side where was cockpit had been moments ago was also missing. He then looked at the state at which the section was in. Several men were missing, yank or thrown for their seats in the crash. His Sergeant that sat across from his hung limp in his harness, a thick tree branch protruded his upper chest, his head rested on it.

Using his right hand we pulled his combat knife bayonet from his boot, he cut the harness away, freeing him from the wreck. Walking softly to the edge he noticed the middle section of the chopper was caught up in the branches of a tree. Now that he thought of it the floor had a slight tilt. When he looked down at the ground, he recognized the cockpit nose down. “Holy fuck.”

“Amen brother.” Someone coughed. Bunt whipped around, Corporal Brent Honey was trying to undo the straps to his harness. Bunt walked over and cut him out. “Thanks mate. Looks like quite the dive we took. Any of the other lads alive?”

“Donno, haven’t checked no ones pulse. My sergeant is over there with a branch sticking out of him.”

Honey looked over his shoulder. “My sergeants seat is missing… No that I see most of my squads portion of the chopper is gone…” The two of them checked the pulses of the rest of the soldiers and cut everyone free, laying those still unconscious or dead on the floor of the cabin.

“We’ll have to repel. I’ll go down first. Honey you and Private Anderson, Jones, and Kipper stay here and help lower the bodies. I’ll untie them at the bottom then you can all come down.”

“What about rescue?”

“Well if the pilot did his job, then the Commonwealth knows we have already gone down and have sent out a team. It’s only a matter of time before they find us. We’ll probably have to find high ground, the tree canopy looks pretty tight, won’t see us here.”

As the boots of the men touched the earth below, the pilot advised them they were to wait on scene for further orders. This angered the section leader, who wasn't willing to stand around. What if someone who was injured approached? Would they be permitted to help? He calmed himself and asked the pilot to send a message back. The pilot did.

''Delesea, we are currently on scene, we haven't located any survivors yet. Permission to begin search and rescue?''

As the pilot sent his message, the section leader pulled a white smoke grenade from his vest, judged the wind direction and tossed it so the smoke would blow away from the crash site. He then ordered his team to take up defensive positions, unsure of how long it would be until they got a green light.

"We would like to buy the oil, certainly. We have enough money for that. The natives have already signed an alliance in exchange for modern comforts, thus letting us know the layout of the entire island- and we have plenty of gold, thanks to them. We don't need to worry of any attack by them. But about the defense arrangements...we need to protect ourselves against other colonists, so..." He took another sip, savoring it in his mouth before swallowing, saying,

"Name your price."

Somewhere inside Niraamayan Territory

Parson Briggs seemed lost. He should have run into something, or someone, by now. It was if he was riding around in circles. Hopefully someone would find him soon, or he might vary well die of starvation, or dehydration out in the wilderness.

Both Generals were surprised by the man's response, they had thought he would refuse, or at least try to barter with them, rather than ask a price. Booke decided to take the forefront,

''We are just testing the oil fields now, we've got a couple of rigs up but it will be a few days before we can accurately predict how many barrels we can sell you. If you want to make things easier, how many barrels do you require?''

''As for soldiers, we have 20,000 in theater and additionally another 50,000 active and available. Although I'd have to get some analysts to look at your current situation, I don't think your going to require that many soldiers.''

Booke paused, realizing that he couldn't provide the man with a price. He was a high ranking officer but he rarely dealt with the economic aspect of the military, he had people to do that for him. Robertson realized this and began to speak,

''I have experience with defending colonies, I've done this type of things three times prior to this. I'd estimate to defend yourself by land your going to need at least 5,000 combat troops. This would be the most basic defense I could offer. It's going to cost more because it is must riskier for the legionaries, but it will provide you with basic security and a basic defense should you be attacked by land. I'm going to say roughly $4 Million. That will allow the soldiers basic pay and pay for food and other items they might need. I can offer a cheaper price if you can provide food and necessities.''

Robertson began writing down figures on a sheet of paper.

''I recognize this is quite the sum of money but this type of operation is risky and dangerous. I'm not going to lie to you sir, once you decide to let us go, your colony is going to be defenseless again and your going to be short quite a bit of money. I don't want to leave you like that, I've seen what can happen when a nation falls, I don't want that for you.''

He continued writing while he spoke.

''I can provide you with a better package of defense. For 6 Million, I can offer you the basic 5000 troops and for one weeks time, offer you 500 Orbathian engineers who will construct border defenses You won't have to pay for the materials, my engineers will supply them. Once again if you provide food a necessities the price will drop.''

He stopped, allowing the man to consider this. Booke nodded in agreement and thought of another option.

''I can also offer personnel to train some civilians into soldiers, the price would be based on how many civilians you want trained. I can also offer you some basic naval patrolling once we have naval element established. ''

"Let's see..." the diplomat said, thinking of how many they would need. "I guess about 300 barrels of oil should keep us going for a month or two- we don't have that many things that need it." he took another sip from the glass, saying, "As for the defense... We don't need naval defense, the government is sending a quarter of the Home Fleet to guard us as we speak. We can provide food for the soldiers, rather good food, I might add, so how much would the 6 million package cost then? And about the civilians... there are about 50 adults and 532 children that want to be trained, but since we don't employ child soldiers unless they break into our warehouses, take guns and start marching in line by themselves (Which, I might say, has happened a few times in the past), we need to train 50 adults."

"So... how much does that cost?"

Somewhere inside Niraamayan Territory

Parson Briggs was very hungry, and thirsty. So much so, that his was not paying very much attention to the path before him. Neither him, nor the horse, noticed, the gully that was approuching, until it was too late. He, and the horse attempted to stop, but there was no time. Seconds later, both of them, went tumbling down into the gully. When Parson Briggs reached the ground, the first thing that happened was his neck struck a protruding rock. The force of the impact broke his neck, and he died rather quickly.

OOC: Beatus, why on earth did you kill your messenger?

''300 Barrels, I can confidently say we can do that quite easily and at a cost of $45 a barrel, this would be $13,500.''

Booke turned to his glass while Robertson set his down and spoke,

''Good food you say, that is a welcome thought. I'm quite sure the soldiers will enjoy that. I can then offer you the defensive package for $5 Million. As for training, I can't provide any real training to child soldiers, but I'm sure you understand this. As for 50 adults, that will be much easier than expected. It would require about 25 of my officers for 4 months. Since their officers, and several are going to be training officers in a specific field, they are going to cost slightly more, however this cost will be offset by the fact that they won't be in any combat duty. The cost is going to be $15,000, $10,000 if you provide food. Now if you would like your troops to learn anything above that of a regular infantry soldier, I can arrange for that also, but at an increased price.''

"Great. Do you prefer payment by gold or cash?"

Booke was pleased to here that a deal had been reached.

''Cash, I'll provide you with the government's bank account so it can be wired.''

As he said this, one of the soldiers along the wall left the room, entering less than a minute later with a heavy, chrome colored metallic briefcase. He set it on the table in front of Booke who opened it, revealing a laptop inside. Booke typed away on the laptop and passed it to the man.

''Here is the account number.''

OOC: Beatus, why on earth did you kill your messenger?

[OOC: well, I was waiting for a response from you, and it never came...]

"5,023,500 dollars to go." the diplomat said, as he called the governor to make sure the prices were alright, then wired the money. "Okay. Now, when can I expect the soldiers to come?"

[OOC: well, I was waiting for a response from you, and it never came...]

OOC::rolleyes: Okay, then, send another one and I'll welcome him with open arms...

Both Generals smiled warmly. Booke answered the man.

''I will issue the warning orders imminently, the day is still young so they have more than enough time to prepare. Do you have airfields and roads established?''
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News Article - http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14297654&postcount=26

Orsa
The port at New Portsmouth saw its first ships, a massive cargo ship carrying more supplies for the colony and a passenger ship full of civilians who were moving into the colony. Patrol ships from Orbath's Navy also moved in, making the base in New Portsmouth their new home and providing coastal patrols along both colonies coasts. New Portsmouth's airfield also became active, military aircraft from Orbath flew in, also making New Portsmouth their new home. A road was also built from New Portsmouth to the city base to the north, which was know known as Aringston. A few hundred meters from the road, engineers began clearing another path through the jungle, soon railroad tracks would be built which would allow minerals and oil to be sent by train to New Portsmouth and then shipped out of the colonies.Proper defenses such as artillery fire bases and SAM sites were also completed along the border and protecting the towns.

Aringston was also completed, civilian aircraft brought workers and their families into the colonies, many of which would begin work in the mines or on the oil fields. Military aircraft also flew in making Aringston home. Among these were more UAVs which would patrol the borders further.

Lumber camps also began to sprout up outside New Portsmouth and soon loggers would begin cutting jungle away to make room for farms. This also meant that more roads began to be cleared, linking the camps to New Portsmouth.



Apolco
The Port city began to take shape as engineers from Throppe aided by the Orbathians worked hard, nearly completing the port and building many houses and buildings. Engineers also began clearing jungle and buildings roads which stretched along Apolco's coast. Once the port was completed, civilians would begin rushing in and would be trucked along the coast. Many of these people would build their own houses on the coast and create their own fishing towns.

"Airfields? Certainly. Roads? A few leading to the capital."

''Ok, I can have troops flown in tomorrow morning, ROF legionaries first. They will be deployed with LY219 IFVs and LY83 Fox light vehicles. I'll have them proceed as far as they can, but as you know, terrain is difficult. If they can't get through an area, I'll have the crew return to the nearest airfield, the troops will continue on foot. I'm going to deploy the engineers by road, through Orbath and across into your border. I can have them try to get around without plowing, but it would make things easier if they can clear themselves a road around your border. This will also make patrolling easier later.''

OOC: Bump.

New Portsmouth
More and more civilians arrived in the colony and more and more towns began to rise up around oil fields and mines in the north. Roads began to interconnect the colony even more. Railroad tracks were put down, first between New Portsmouth and Aringston and then branching out to the oil fields and mining towns, allowing for valuable resources to be shipped much more quickly the port. A cargo ship line began running up and down the river, also bringing supplies too and from the north. More and more logging roads and camps sprung up in the untamed jungle, lumber was cleared away, producing another valuable resource which Orbath could make money on. A bridge was constructed over the river in New Portsmouth, permanently linking it Orsa to Apolco

Apolco
The port city was finally finished, much smaller than the one in Orsa but it would still serve its purpose. Small fishing villages began to spring up along the coast and a road wrapped itself around the coast. Along the river, several small towns sprung up which would soon house loggers. Roads were constructed from these towns deep into the jungle. Soon loggers would cut down trees and truck them to the river, where they would be sent by boat down to the port city. Both colonies now had a permanent military presence, consisting of aircraft, patrol boats and ships and ground forces. For the time being, these would be soldiers on six months rotations however following their tours of duty, soldiers who volunteered would be able to call Orsa or Apolco their homes and they and their families would become permanent residents.

Orbath was now beginning to reap the benefits of the colony, the money from the resources was paying for the expenses put into colony and soon it would become mostly profit. Although it wasn't a massive amount of money, it was untapped wealth and would put a huge dent in Orbath's money woes.