NationStates Jolt Archive

Overview:

Rotovia has exercised varying degrees of autocratic rule over Crete for nearly three thousand years. Rotovia's western coastline forms the largest barrier along The Great Rotovian Straight, which is the largest trade route into the region by sea. To the south is the Sea of Athenos, which allows vessels traveling through the GRS to access other sea fairing nations. Crete provides a buffer to the Sea, and has served as the first line of naval defence for centuries.

In the West there is a pocket of mostly wealthy, mostly of Rotovian (specifically Athenian nobility) decent who are staunchly pro-Rotovian, and against an independent Crete. Much of the island's resources are under heir ownership as a result of various settlement treaties arising from Rotovia putting down rebellions among the island's native population.

The remainder of the nation is in favour of independence to varying degrees. Anti-monarchy, low income, communists form the largest pro-independence group, followed by moderate, middle-income earners, and a growing Cretian nationalist movement. They are Latin and Gaulish in decent, having been pushed south by the Great Rotovian Expansion around 2240 BCE.

Crete, though rich in natural resources, is significantly less well off then Rotovia, or the rest of the Rotovian Commonwealth, for that matter.

The last settlement treaty, The Treaty of Ayum (1871), provides that the sovereignty of Crete is vested in the Rotovian Senate, as custodians for the Duke of Carthage. (The current Emperor, Dionysus Bacchus III, is the son of the former Duchess of Carthage, placing him in the position of being the nominal Duke of Crete)

During the last international dispute over Crete, Farmina was granted a temporary administrational role which was latter wholly revoked and Rotovian occupation restored.

Crete holds substantial oil reserves around its coastline, as well as an abundance of precious stones deep inland. The island is also of strategic importance in terms of defence and trade for Rotovia. For this reason, the Rotovia Island Territory of Crete is permitted naval jurisdiction only 500m from shore, where the Constitutional Republic of Rotovia's is said to begin.

Crete possesses just 5 naval vessels, it previously maintained 12, but these were sunk by the Rotovian Home Guard Fleet after a Cretian ship opened fire on a convoy.

Open to Reformed Oceania, and by request

IC:

A strange hush grew over the crowd, a sort of foreboding silence that only falls when the collective hearts of thousands stop for an instant. And they had good cause, the crowd estimated in the hundreds of thousands, was gathered outside the Cretian Assembly to hear the formal results of the election.

It was expected to be an easy victory for the Liberal Party of Crete, who had governed the island for decades thanks to an appointment system which meant just one-third of all members of the Assembly were appointed based on the popular electoral votes. Ravaged by devastating and often violent anti-government protests, the government had faced a rare no-confidence vote placing the Assembly in the unusual position of placing two-thirds of the parliament before the polls.

"The air is almost electric here in Iona Square, as the entire nation waits to hear the outcome of a closely fought election. For the pro independence movement, this could mean the fulfilment of centuries of dreams, and for Rotovian nationalist, this could mean the end to their hold on power." Began an energetic young reporter before adding "Though we should remember the Community Party would require nearly 90% of the popular vote to secure enough seats to form government which ha... I've just been told the Rotovian Privy Council has endorsed the results, and the Commissioner of Elections will announce our new government shortly..."

The murmering from the crowd began to grow into a rumble so loud that for all the differing opinions being screamed from the crowd, it sounded as one body of noise. The sound had grown that much that by the time the greying Commissioner had polished his glasses and begun to read his prepared notes, he could not be heard even by those who stood next to him. It would not be until the news media, reading from the press release freshly issued, begin to relay the result that the public knew the answer to the question they had waited weeks to hear.

"Liberals win in landslide" declares the headline of the government owned Cretian Statesman. Others were not so kind to the government, declaring "Allegations of rigging and fraud abound" and "Liberals steal election".

Thousands of years of Rotovian rule had been preserved, but across the island a match was flung into an already smoking powder keg of dissent.

Houses of Parliament
The Federal Enclave, Freedom City
Northern Colonies

Between the last talks over Crete, in which the Northern Colonies did take part in, and now, the Anderson Government had fallen. A old party with a new name, the Freedom Party and a new message had come forward and taken the country by storm, ultimately winning the election with the message of "delivering Freedom to the Northern Colonies in all its guises." And it was so that John Nickelmeyer, the new Minister for Foreign Affairs was seeing in his new job, when he read a report coming out of Crete.


Election results are in. Liberals win... again. Believe there's going to be some sort of conflict over this although I don't think it will be too back. But do recommend changing the travel advisory over this.

Adam Peterson-Smith
Consul-General, Crete

He handed this over to his secretary.

"Please arrange to get this done," he replied. "I must head back to the House."

[B]House of Commons Office Block
New Port, Grand Duchy of Tarlag[B]


Prime-Minister Hero Santo looked over the report he was handed about the recent elections on Crete. "Simms, I want you to issue a travel waring about Crete through the Foreign Office as soon as possible. It looks like Rotovia's sham elections might cause trouble. I don't want any of our people getting caught in the cross fire."

Mr Simms gave a slight nod and replied. " Very well Sir, I also have another report from one of our people on the ground there who has made contact with some of the opposition to Rotovian rule there."

"Let me guess they want us to invade and free them from their oppressors."

"No Sir, but they are looking for support when the trouble starts. Arms, training and support. They want self rule and they seem to want it now more then ever now that they lost the election."

"Work up a report ASAP and see if it is something we should get involved in. Also if we do this I want it low key I don't want a war with Ratovia over this island."

Privy Council Chambers, Palace of Athens, Attica City, Rotovia

The voices of the most powerful men in the land echoed off the high-arched walls of the chamber, and fist came clambering down upon the mighty oak desk that for two hundred years had stood the test such treatment.

"We are the Duke in Crete, and we are the law. I will not have the island turned over to communist dogs!" The powerful voice was that of Lady Nicoletta Bacchus. The young cousin of the Emperor was widely viewed as his favoured successor, much to the ire of his sister Princess Helena Bacchus, who had taken up residence on the island after falling out with the Emperor over his ascension.

"My Lady, with all due respect the country is being ripped apart by reports of riots in every city: we are on the verge of civil war. We must consider a power-sharing agreement with the opposit..." The voice of Sarah Hours, the Minister for Foreign Affairs was cut short by the simple act of a risen hand: the hand of the King.

"Then declare it a state of war, suspend the constitution, and have the Praetorian Guard end this rebellion once and for all"

"Aye, my Lord Emperor" came the unenthused unanimous reply of the Privy Council

House of Commons Office Block
New Port, Grand Duchy of Tarlag


"Mr. Simms get in here!" Prime-Minister Santo yelled as he hung up the phone.

Simms entered the room Padd unit in hand. ""What is it, Sir"

"The Shit just hit the fan, The Ratovians just declared war on their own people. The Emperor is dispatching his Praetorian Guards to deal with the rioting on Crete. Bastard is trying to kill a fly with a hammer."

"Has the Duke been informed of this?"

"He was the one to tell me the news. He is now drafting a letter to the Region condemning the action and is requesting that the Commons in act trade sanctions against Ratovia unless they try to seek a peaceful solution."

"I would think The Grand Duke would be supporting Rotovia in this matter. He has no love for Communists."

"He has less love for the Duchess Bacchus. I think they met each other once and in the Ozgoods own words. "That Bitch couldn't run an ice cream stand let alone Crete."

"What were the Duke's instructions on this matter, Sir?"

"According to Ozgood we are to do everything in our power short of sending the Fleet in to make the Duchess look like the Bitch she is."

Rotovian National News

"In a shocking turn of events today, Lady Nicoletta Bacchus confirmed she had been appointed military governor of Crete, and that civilian government would be suspended, and I quote 'until the situation has stabilised'. A recent RNN poll confirmed 62% of Rotovians were opposed, or strongly opposed, to the continued occupation of Crete.

We cross now live to the Palace of Athens, where Lady Bacchus has called a press conference..."

Press Hall, Palace of Athens, Attica City

"Members of the Imperial Press Corps, Lords, Ladies, and Rotovians..." began the confident and perfectly tempered voice of Lady Bacchus "...our great and noble Emperor has declared a state of emergency in Crete in response to intelligence reports which indicate that civil unrest on the island could boil over into open civil war at any stage.

We have dispatched two battalions of Praetorian Guard to reinforce the existing military presence and I will be meeting with the Minister for National Defence to obtain additional forces.

The Crown respects that there exist differing opinions on our presence on the island, and that was expressed to us by the passage of Motion 342: A motion to condemn the dispatch of additional forces to Crete by the Senate. It is, however, our opinion that we must maintain the integrity of the Rotovian state: secession is not legal, and it is not acceptable"

Communist Party HQ, House of the People, Capital City, Crete

In the tiny, concrete, smoke-filled room the leaders of the Communist Party met. Gathered around the table were the Lord Mayor of Capital City (holding the highest civilian post of any member of the Party), the Leader of the Opposition in the Cretian Assembly, and assorted leaders of various Party factions.

"We must act to protect our people, just last week a union rally was opened fire on by the Rotovian military. If we don't act fast, the Praetorians will be here soon, and they have no accountability, and unrestrained power..."

"Thank you Madame Lord Mayor, however we lack the weaponry to confront the Rotovian occupation; it would be suicide"

"We still have some friends on the outside, try to reach to reach them."

OUT SIDE OF THE HOUSE OF THE PEOPLE, CAPITAL CITY CRETE


The young boy peddled his bicycle up to the Communist Party HQ. Strapped to the rack on the back of the bike is a Mama Bono's Pizza delivery container. Riding up to the building he gets off the bike and removes two pizza boxes from the container. Going up to the door he knocks and waits for the door to be opened. When the guard at the door answers the boy looks up to him and speaks "These are from a Mr. Wellington. One is plain cheese and one is the works. Sorry Mister but I ate the bread sticks if you want to bitch then call Mr. Wellington on my Cell phone it is all most out of minutes so you can keep it Mom got me a new one anyway just hit redial and you will get him."
With that the kid hands the man an older looking cell phone then jumps back on his bike and peddles off into the night.

Northern Colonies Consulate-General in Crete
Capital City, Crete

The air inside the consulate was heated. Whilst the land had remained under Northern Colonies sovereignty as per international norm, there was a fear that mobs may decide to attack the consulate. As a result, preparations were under way to strengthen the defences of the building itself. Much of the non-essential workers had been sent home, the walls around the embassy now had barbed wire attached to the top so that rioters could not climb the walls, and the soldiers of the Crete Platoon, Rotovia Company, 1st Battalion, Lord Hefferton's Regiment, the security detail surrounding the consulate had changed from their dress uniforms, designed to impress, to their battle fatigues, helmets and body armour, designed to kill. Machine guns were deployed along the windows and Sniper teams were put on the roof of the building. They also prepared evacuation techniques should the situation go out of control.

The Consular-General, Mr Adam Peterson-Smith was of course anxious. With no military experience himself and this being his first overseas post, he was slightly fearful of not coming through alive.

"Don't worry, sir," replied Lieutenant Carla Brewer. A female and a infantry officer, she was one of the few such officers for an army that only recently allowed females to join front-line service. "I don't think they will actually be interested in this place, probably more the Praetorian Guards, wherever they'll take the sheep to here. How are we going with the burning of the papers?"

"Good Carla," replied Adam, whilst black smoke blew from the consulate. "We've got most of the classified documents done now. Now, I've booked a meeting with Lady Bacchus. What is the security detail with that?"

"Well, sir," replied Carla. "We're going to get the two Colonial Police agents based here to escort you to Praetorian Guards headquarters, where she will be based. We will also be arranging some local law enforcements to provide additional security support. We are trying to eschew using any units from the Rotovian Military or Mainland Rotovia law enforcement, since that may make you the target of attacks."

"Ok, thanks, Carla," replied Adam, quite seductively whilst putting his hand on her shoulder.

"No, Adam," Carla replied, brushing his hand off her shoulder. "Not now."

She then handed him a holster. In it was a Beretta 92 Pistol, standard issue pistol of the Colonial Army. She also handed him a few magazines.

"Wear the holster," Carla said.

"I've... never fired a gun before," Adam hesitated.

"Then you won't be firing your gun into me," replied Carla, quite agitated before replying more softly but still serious manner. "I'll take you to the firing range here before you go."

TARLAGIAN CONSULET, CAPTIAL CITY, CRETE


Ambassador Nichole Dever watched the local news reports with a look of great concern. As she watched the latest pictures of the civil unrest happening just out side of her walls Captain Andrew Morgen entered her office dressed in full combat gear.
"Mam, my people have secured the compound and double checked all escape routes, if things get that bad, I also just got a report that the Helicopter carrier Gold Dragon is with in range of our transport chopper and is ready to receive us if need be."
"Very Good Captain, I want you to get one of our armored SUVs and four of your best men. One of my Aids just got a call from the Colonial Consulate and they are trying to arrange a meeting with Lady Bacchus I wish to be in at that meeting with the Colonies and her Ladyship. They all need to hear the message for her I just got from the Duke."

"Yes Ambassador, I will have my people make the arrangements with Lady Bacchus's staff. On another matter what do you want to do with the local workers?"

She looked at the TV for a moment before deciding ""Have them bring their families in. They are safer here then on the streets. I also want you to contact that carrier and have them sent a couple of transport choppers. If things turn bad I want to get everyone out not just us."

"May I take the liberty of bringing in a few more men and some heavier weapons. All we have here is 24 men with SMGs and side arms. With the extra people you want brought in I will need more men to keep order."

"Very well use your best judgement, just don't make it look like an invasion force."

im going to bump this for rotovia's attention

and again for new years

Privy Council Chambers, Palace of Athens, Attica City, Rotovia

The room had cleared, all had their orders and no one dared question them. Remaining were just the Emperor, and Lady Bacchus.

"They poisoned her, Nicole"

"Who did what to who...?"

"...those Cretian dogs poisoned our late Queen, and they got away with it because we couldn't risk an international scene during the Treaty negotiations. But the Island is under our control now. We desire that assume command of the Praetorian detachment to Crete, and restore our family's honour"

"Yes, my Lord Emperor"

Following day
Praetorian Guard HQ, Capital City, Crete

The manicured and immaculate image of the royal-turned-executive, Lady Nicoletta, was unblemished, even in war. As her entourage swamped the tiny reception of the building, she entered in full military dress uniform dripping in medals afforded to her for the military posting accompanying her position as heir-apparent.

"You!" Lady Bacchus pointed directly at now quivering receptionist "Get me the heads of every embassy on this Island on the phone, pronto"

"Yes. ma'am"

"As for the rest of you; I'm ordering a complete military curfew on the Island, excepting neighbourhoods in the Clear Districts"

"Excepting Rotovian neighbourhoods, ma'am?" began a foolish young Guardsman

"We try to preserve Rotovian life..." Lady Bacchus learnt in, whispering "Service or death" referring to the motto of the Ouvette Basilica, the largest Praetorian academy.

The convoy making its way to the Praetorian Guard HQ was indeed heavily armed. One police motorcycle led the convoy, followed by two police cars, a SWAT van, then the Rolls-Royce with the Consul-General inside, then another SWAT van, followed by two police cars and a police motorcycle at the end. After parking on the driveway of the HQ, the driver of the Rolls-Royce came out and opened the door, letting the Consul-General, Adam Peterson-Smith. He walked up to Lady Bacchus.

"Mr Peterson-Smith," Adam greeted with a hand. "Consul-General for the Northern Colonies here in Crete."

A light blue unmarked SUV made its way through the streets of the capital. Having to make several detours on the way to the Military HQ the four Guards were becoming nervous. ""Ambassador, We should of brought more men or at least had the locals escort us."
"you may be right Captain, but I feel having a low profile may be better for us in the long run. Just keep your eyes open and don't get trigger happy."
With that statement being said a bullet bounces off the hood of the SUV.
"Don't return fire that is an order just get us out of here Now!"
The SUV raced for word ignoring the traffic signs. five minutes later it pulled into the HQ.

Walking in the building She went to greet the Ratovian leader in Crete
"My lady I am Ambassador Nichole Dever Of the Grand Duchy of Tarlag."

bump

and again bump

"Bring in the Tarlag and Northern Colonies delegation immediately" Lady Bacchus ordered, waiving at an indistinguishable aide of unknown rank.

"Gentlemen, welcome..." She extended a firm handshake and immediately cut off any reply with "Let us speak frankly, and of treat such dealings with the highest of secrecy". Proceeding behind a large glass desk she returned with two manila folders and handed them to the delegations respectively.

"Shortly after the death of our late Queen a Royal Commission was formed to investigate the matter. Neither the Commission nor the Coroner were able to determine a cause."

Lady Bacchus removes a slim cigarette from a silver case, places it into a matching filter holder and summons an aide to light it.

"Cigar, cigarette, gentlemen?" before waiting for a reply "Our intelligence has found who was responsible for the most vile and unseemly death to befall a monarch in our recent history."

With no heed to those in the room, she took three determined strides to the large bay window overlooking an empty city street. She took a long draw of her cigarette, lent against the window and declared "We're going to rain hell down on Crete, Gentlemen. To kill a King is treason, and we afford traitors no quarter."

Turning back to delegations and slamming a velvet gloved fist on the table. "I will ensure this never happens again, if I have to level every building on this God-forsaken Island!"

Regaining her composure and stubbing out the cigarette she continued "I will of course be making troops available to protect your interests, and we've cleared the highway so there is direct access to the airport... should we need it."

"Questions, gentlemen" Lady Bacchus replied in a tone entirely to cheerful for her solemn pronouncements.

Adam was stunned at the words that were coming out of Lady Bacchus' mouth. Despite having completed an Honours thesis on Rotovia-Crete relations, he was not prepared for the nature of the intended Rotovian response.

"First of all," he began. "I don't smoke. Secondly, what you are suggesting is the systematic slaughter of the Cretean people. Now I graduated in Arts and Law with First Class Honours, but I don't think you need that to say that what you suggesting is nothing short of genocide."

After taking a deep breath, he continued.

"Now the death of the Queen is unfortunate," he started again. "And if you have evidence on the specific people involved, you are more than entitled to move in and arrest those responsible."

He stood up and walked to the window.

"But to condemn those who may have not have been involved, to condemn those how have now be declared guilty just merely due to the fact that they happen to live here, that is evil and that is illegal. The Northern Colonies Government will not tolerate such devastation to happen on its very doorstep."

After taking a deep breath, he remember a question that this masters back in Freedom City had asked him to ask.

Now that I've done with this, I must ask a question. It has been suggested that the recent elections has been rigged and that the Cretean people desire independence. The Northern Colonies Government thus requests that it wishes to conduct an audit on the results, with your permission. This may help ease the violence that we have been seeing for the last couple of day. Are you willing to accept?"

Removing another cigarette and bringing it to her mouth. "Adam, may I call you Adam?" She lights it. "It may not surprise you that I am considered somewhat an outsider among the Rotovia elité, being one of the few true imperialists left"

"But, and this should put you at ease, I can assure you no soldier of the Republican government will violate international law. As for the Praetorians, they have been given the names and locations of those believed to have conspired to, or supported, before or after the act, the commission of Regicide and will be dealt with accordingly"

"As to the other matter, we do not rig elections in Rotovia, and I stand behind our proud record of international electoral monitoring. I would be happy to oblige you with the results"


Rotovian Electoral Commission
Cretian Bureau, Capital City

32nd General Election in Crete

Results of Legislative Assembly election, as verified under Cretian Elections (Rotovia) Act.

Voters of electoral role on the seventh (7th) day after the issuing of the writ of elections: 7,035,984

Total voters recorded in attendance on the day of elections: 5,369,124

Ballot deemed invalid or otherwise spoilt: 45,968

Total votes accepted by the Commissioner-General: 5,323,156

Note: Two-thirds (2/3) of seats in the Legislative Assembly of Crete were contested, with appointments made by proportion to national polling. 200 of 300 seats were open to contest.

Vote break down by party or legislative caucus:

United Communist Community Party: 3,756,304
Liberal Party of Rotovia (Crete): 635,298
Independant/Write-in: 598,745
Progressive Reform Party: 296,352
National Unity Movement: 36,457

The Privy Council on instruction of the Emperor, did appoint the following on electoral advice:

Note: One percent (1%) of votes accepted equates to roughly 53231 seats, the legal requirement to enter office.

United Communist Community Party: 210*
Liberal Party of Rotovia (Crete): 39
Independent/Write-in: 33
Progressive Reform Party: 18
National Unity Movement: 0

The Privy Council on instruction of the Emperor, did appoint the following on Royal advice:

United Communist Community Party: 20
Liberal Party of Rotovia (Crete): 70
Independent: 0
Progressive Reform Party: 10
National Unity Movement: 0

*Sixty-five (65) members of the United Communist Community Party were found to be members of the Community Workers Party, an illegal organisation, and their seats filled on Royal advice

Final Tally of Appointments:

United Communist Community Party: 125
Liberal Party of Rotovia (Crete): 174
Independent/Write-in: 33
Progressive Reform Party: 28
National Unity Movement: 0

The Liberal Party was invited to retain government, and formally accepted.

OOC: On a semi-related note, there are major by-elections going on in Rotovia right now. http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=14382310#post14382310

"I hope so," replied Adam. "And yes you can call me Adam is you want. Mr Peterson-Smith is quite long.

He had a quick glance at the list and the first thing he noticed was that by votes, the Communist Party had clearly won.

"As I said before," he started. "Having an audit done by someone who is not, emotionally involved may do much to ease tensions. We will be publishing this offer in the media tomorrow as well."

A large nondescript room, The Palace of Athens, Attica City

The Emperor sat in a large dark green leather chair thumbing an economic report from some far flung member of the Commonwealth when his personal aide approached to announce the entry of the Imperial Attorney-General.

"My Lord Emperor" began the almost sing-sing dialect of the wealthy north-eastern, old money, old titles, Imperial Attorney-General. "A group calling itself 'Cretians for Democracy' are filing a suit in the Cretian Supreme Court seeking a recount"

"Preposterous! The law clearly states candidates can be chosen from the approved lists submitted, the Communist...err...community Party candidates were unfit. Get the Lord Chancellor to phone every justice in Crete and make it clear we will not have our electoral process undermined by these rumours."

"Of course"

Capital City, Crete

A large group of protesters with arms linked and placards raised charged the streets of Capital City, shouting for freedom and denouncing the curfew.

"Rotovia get out!"
"Rotovia go home!"
"The only good Ro-to-vian
is six feet under-ground!"

The chants grew louder and louder as the crowd now in the hundreds of thousands approached the Governor's Manor, where Lt-Colonel Lord Baron Olivette was hurriedly re-swearing in the government.

"Our voices will be head!" screamed a man from the crowd as the rounded the last corner before the Mannnor.

Just five hundred Praetorian stood before the gate. The remainder had been sent to other military and government buildings, particularly Praetorian HQ. Automatic weapons in hands, an officer gave the order to attach bayonets and ready fire.

"Or our first will!" came an anonymous voice and a dozen members of the crowd charged forward hurling rocks.

A news-van approaching backfires.

Suspecting gunfire, a group of more extreme demonstrators hurl molotov cocktails at the Praetorian ranks. Most miss, but two Praetorian are badly burnt. The Praetorian having been on guard for nearly forty-eight hours straight and running from riot to riot responded with a hale of gunfire.

A nearby police officer radios his base for instructions, the crackling order comes back "stand down, Lady Bacchus has declared martial law... they're in charge now"

"I must agree with the Northern Colonies Representative. Your course of action here is Illegal at best. Holding the whole local population responsible for the death of your good Queen is an act the Tarlagian government cannot support."
After listening to the election report given by Lady Bacchus Mr. Dever opens his briefcase the Tarlagian Ambassador then removes a Padd unit and activates it. "Our own intelligence which your own report has just confirmed clearly states that the Creteian Communist Party won the last election by a wide margin and should be the Government in power. No wonder the people are out in the streets as we speak."
Bringing up a new page on the Padd unit and quickly looking it over Mr Dever spoke again. "The Duke has drawn up a few suggestions on how you can end the civilian disruption and maybe solve your problems here once and for all if you are willing to hear them."

"The whole population will most certainly not be punished, and I do not appreciate the insinuation. We have duty of care to our population to ensure that those specific individuals responsible for supporting or perpetrating Regicide are dealt with. Now as for the election, the communists failed to field candidates who met the qualifications, and as per convention they were appointed by the Privy Council. The fact these Cretian rabble rousers refuse to obey the letter of the law cannot be blamed on our government."

Relaxing herself into the large ornate leather lounge chair, she indicated for the representatives to sit also.

"The views of the Duke are, of course, welcome"

"For the record, what qualifications would that be?" Questioned Adam.

"As per the report, not being a member of a terrorist organisation is one criterion"

"Hmm..." replied Mr Smith, before realising that he may have nearly missed something important. He went to his pocket and pulled out his mobile phone. After pressing a few buttons, he got to the calculator mode. He then puled his notebook and ripped a page, before getting his pen out.

"Hmm, let's see," he started, thoughtfully. "You have 210 seats for the UCCP, minus 65 illegible seats." He punched a few buttons on his mobile. "So that is 145 popular elected seats, plus 20 royal appointments, gives you 165 final seats, why does your list give only 125?"

He then proceeded to add up the Liberal Seats. "39 seats, plus 70 seats gives you only 109 Liberal seats. So in reality, the UCCP have won this election, and quite easily I must say. So why is there a discrepancy with the official tally and the numbers I have just calculated?"

The sound of leather crunching could was just barely audible as Lady Bacchus allowed her hand to tightly grip the arms of the chair. Staring right back at her was one of the single greatest bureaucratic mistake in Rotovian history, and the end to weeks of meticulous planning. Her assistant had accidentally introduced the unaltered electoral report and she had to think fast. "There has clearly been some kind of tallying error here... I'll get on to the Commissioner-General immediately"

Quickly retrieving the handle of the auspiciously coloured red phone, she requested to be connected as promptly was put through. "Thomas we have a problem, the report in showing a UCCP victory... I know, I know... the margin should be much closer... yes, we factored in Royal advice appointments... OK, understood"

Returning the handle to the cradle, and extinguishing her latest cigarette Lady Bacchus turned to her guests. "A simple mistake, the report fails to take into account disqualified and contested booths.

She anxiously lights another cigarettes. "Gentlemen, this is a matter for the Electoral Commission to resolve, I would like to turn our attention to something more important. Under the proposed new Cretian Administration Guidelines we will be opening up fifteen new offshore drilling sites around Crete, and both your government's are invited to submit offers to start exploratory drilling as soon as this whole mess quiets down"

"If this mess quietens down," replied Adam, quickly changing to mode on his phone to camera. "Our intelligence sources seem to suggest that it may not, and given the recent revelations, I don't think this mess will die down. "

He pulled the phone into the position where he could take a shot on the piece of paper carrying the results.

"Say Cheese," he shouted. As he pressed the button, a bright, white flash was emitted from the phone. "10 megapixel camera. Readable even to the almost-blind."

He pressed a few buttons to save the image and then placed the phone back into his pocket.

"So much for your 'proud record of international electoral monitoring'," Adam sarcastically mocked.

"There's no photography allowed in this building, you should know better than that." Lady Bacchus rose form her chair to continue "I'll be meeting the UCCP delegation shortly to swear in the new Leader of the Opposition, you are of course welcome to observe."

Maneuvering around the table to sit between to the two delegations on the table's edge, she lowered her voice "We are not inflexible on this matter. The Privy Council has already approved a number of recounts requested by the Electoral Commission. We could all go home having represented the best interests of our respective nation's, and we can considered fresh elections when the fighting dies down, and it will, the Praetorians will see to that"

"I like to see you stop me," replied Adam, cheekily before adopting a more serious tone. "And you will be not merely considering fresh elections. You will be announcing that the results of this election will be invalidated and that fresh elections will be held, to be monitored and conducted by the international community. Otherwise this photo will be mysteriously, 'leaked' to the media."

Adam stood up and walked towards the window, before turning around and facing Lady and the Tarlag ambassador.

"It is in the interest of the Northern Colonies Government to ensure that no blood be spilt on this island. You know why?" Adam asked rhetorically before continuing. "Because the nearest land not under Rotovian sovereignty is Us! The Northern Colonies. We will pay for your stuff-ups on this island through a bucketload of refugees."

He walked back towards his seat but did not sit down.

"And now, unless Nichole here has anything else to say, I think I'm done here. And yes, I will be attending the swearing-in."

"Assuming those photos never see the light of day, we have deal. However, I must insist that the results be accepted as released, I am willing to see half of cabinet post filled by the UCCP in the transitional government. Do we have a deal gentlemen?"

Awaiting their reply, she depressed a small black intercom and lent towards it whispering "Meredith, is the UCCP group ready to see us" "Yes ma'am, they are"

"Well then...?"

"I have no authority to authorise that," replied Adam. "I will have to contact my superiors back in Freedom City. And I'm not sure what the Tarlagians will want to do with this information." He turned around and faced the Tarlagian Ambassador.

"Part of the Duke's plan is holding new elections as the Northern Colonies Representative has suggested." Mr. Dever leaned back in his chair and continued.
"As for your Rotovian troops quieting down this mess my Government believes they will only make it worse. Rotovia is the root of these peoples anger. Right now they are only throwing rocks and bottles with a few stray shoots here and their. Something will happen and the stray rocks will turn into bullets.".

Hitting a few buttons on his pad unit Mr. Dever read a report. "According to our intelligence department weapon shipments are now being arranged between unnamed Foreign groups and local resistance units on the Island. Ak-47s, AA-12 combat shotguns, G-3 sniper rifles, and RPG-7's. We also believe that they may also be able to take delivery of shoulder fired anti-aircraft missiles."
Deactivating the Padd unit and putting it away in his briefcase he continued.

"Lady Bacchus, you are looking at a shooting war here unless we can find a solution fast. My Government suggests withdrawing all of your forces now. Their withdrawal should quite things down, especially if this comes with the announcement of new elections monitored independent groups. I would also suggest that the locals arrest the persons responsible for the Queens murder and then they can turn them over to you for trial. It will look better to the man on the street. If your people do it then it will make the killers look like heroes of the resistance instead of murdering bastards."

"Absolutely not, we cannot have the locals performing the arrests, some of our warrants extend to the highest levels of Cretian government, on both sides of the aisle." She removes her jacket and places it on the back of her chair, "I can look at drawing down some of our men on the Island, but we have nearly a million Rotovian loyalists, not to mention your embassies, members of my personal family, all who depend on those Praetorians to keep the violent mobs at bay. If you want us to pull out more troops. we need a plan that prevents this whole mess exploding in our hands"

"I'm going to propose renewed treaty talks when I meet with the Opposition Leader-elect, you are both welcome to send representatives... as for this business of election monitors, that is completely unacceptable..." she begins to pace taping her unlit cigarette against the air as she goes. "Yes, I know" she lights the cigarette and smiles broadly "I know a solution to all our troubles. The President frankly wants to get as far away from this whole damn mess as possible, the Liberals would jump at the opportunity to amend the electoral laws to allow the Regional Council to certify results..."

"Keeping the loyalists safe is going to be a problem I would suggest pulling your troops back to those neighborhoods that are mainly loyalist. That should keep the crowds at bay for now. As for the Embassies, I have already called in additional troops to defend our compound. If necessary I can have more brought in on very short notice as one of our Helicopter carrier groups is sitting just out side of your territorial limits."
Standing up and walking over to where Mr. Peterson-Smith stood.
"What happens here will affect the entire region not just Rotovia and the Colonies. Tarlag is willing to help in this matter if you are willing let us.
The Duke and the Commons has authorized our military to send in peace keeping troops to help put down this civil unrest. You can make your arrests as you pull your military out. The news of the pull out should counter the word of the arrests. With word of our peace keepers coming in to help the local authorities keep the peace should lessen the violence. This should solve most of the problem in the short term."

"Local police should be used to deal with the riots, not the Praetorian Guard," concurred Adam. "If we do intend to send peacekeepers, I would expect the Northern Colonies to take command, given our proximity and experience in dealing with insurgencies."

"When Royal interests are concerned, and the Island is considered a Royal interest, the Praetorians always have the lead. There's not a thing you, me, or anyone save for our King can do about that, and the King has made his position clear: Praetorian jurisdiction will be upheld..."

"The UCCP leadership is waiting" came the garbled blurting from the intercom. Leaning in to reply, Lady Bacchus replied "Send them in, in two minutes"

"Something needs to be clear, Crete is a Rotovian possession and has been that way for over two thousand years, there is no precedent for releasing it from that status, and there is no political will for it in Attica City..."

The door opens and an man wearing a green suit, sporting a more salt-than-pepper moustache, and glasses held together with sticky tape, and a young blond woman in a lemon pantsuit, smiling pleasantly.

"Dr Ericks, I'd like you to meet the Tarlag and Northern Colonies delegations, they will be supervising the swearing in" Lady Bacchus allowed the groups to mingle as she called for a notary into the intercom, one would enter almost immediately.

"Please state your name and credentials for the record" began Lady Bacchus, scribbling down shorthand as she spoke.

"I am Arthur Matthew Ericks, son of Lord Thomas Matthew Ericks of the House of Acroix, BA Athens-U, MA Crete-Tech, PhD National-U, elected president and public officer of the lawfully registered United Communist Community Party. I confirm that the appointed legislative representatives of our party have met and voted freely and openly to appoint Ms Helen Ouvette their leader"

"Ms Ouvette, are you a Rotovian citizen, owning land by freehold, or having graduated with honours from certified college, being over the age of twenty-five, of sound moral standing, a resident of the Island of Crete for at least three years of the past ten, and a true and faithful servant of your King, the Emperor?"

"I, Helen Sophia Ouvette, daughter of Lady Susanne Sophia Ouvette, do pledge in all matters to be a true and faithful servant, being lawfully permitted to hold this office"

"Ladies and gentlemen assembled, I give you the new Leader of the Opposition in Legislative Assembly"

"My Lady it is a pleasure to meet you, I am Ambassador Dever of the Grand Duchy of Tarlag. We have much to discuss and we had better get started.

"Ms Ouvette," Adam started. "Mr Peterson-Smith, Consular-General for the Northern Colonies. It is my pleasure to meet you."

*bump*

"Ms Ouvette, Dr Ericks, thank you for coming in. Please come along to the cabinet meeting tomorrow Ms Ouvette, I'll have my scheduler contact your assistant" Inclining her hand toward the door, the two exit.

"Gentlemen, my security advisor has recommended that any Praetorian assigned to your respective embassies dress in standard Rotovian Armed Forces battle fatigues, with the flag emblem removed, does anyone object to that?"

"My Government would prefer to bring in some of our Naval Infantry to protect our compound instead of your Praetorian units. My advisers feel we will be less of a target that way."

"And we'd rather use the local police of our external security," replied Adam.

Thinking for a moment "That should be fine, under the circumstances I will arrange for the Privy Council to grant waivers for the legislative ban on 'the military apparatus of a foreign state transversing, or otherwise entering, or making use of, Rotovian air, land or sea. under foreign command'. Give me twenty-four hours before dispatching your forces, so I can arrange the waiver and travel documents"

"Bring in the Chief Minister please..." Lady Bacchus mouthed into the intercom, followed by three hard knocks on the door "Come in"

Two men in designer suits in their early forties and fifties respectively enter. The younger gentleman has a shining streak of silver hair slightly to the left of his part.

"Mr Hours, always a pleasure" Lady Bacchus firmly shakes the hand of the older man "Mr Hours is Dr Hours' uncle on her mother's side... and these are the diplomatic delegations of Tarlag and Northern Colonies, they are hear to witness the swearing in"

Perching herself against the edge of the desk again, Lady Bacchus retrieves her note-pad and begins jotting shorthand again.

"Please state your name and credentials for the record"

"I am Patrick Christopher Hours, son of Lord Matthew Christopher Hours of the House of Hours-Bueg, BA Athens-U, MA Attica-U, JD Attica-U, HonDPhil Northern State-U elected president and public officer of the lawfully registered Liberal Party of Crete. I confirm that the appointed legislative representatives of our party have met and voted freely and openly to appoint Lord Thomas DuVoix their leader"

"Lord Duvoix, are you a Rotovian citizen, owning land by freehold, or having graduated with honours from certified college, being over the age of twenty-five, of sound moral standing, a resident of the Island of Crete for at least three years of the past ten, and a true and faithful servant of your King, the Emperor?"

"I, Thomas Marcus Anthony DuVoix, son of Lord Marcus Anthony Duvoix, do pledge in all matters to be a true and faithful servant, being lawfully permitted to hold this office"

"Ladies and gentlemen assembled, I give you the new Chief Minister for the Cretian Territory"

Shaking Mr Duviox's hand, she continued "The Rotovian Ministry for National Defence has recommended the creation of the legitimate Armed Forces in Crete, they are pretty insistent on the title, which will be under the direct command of the presiding officer of the Duchy, at present, myself. Tom, can I get you to speak with your cabinet and get back to me?"

Adam yawned. He didn't intend to, but knowing the situation on the ground, this swearing-in seemed a bit, useless to him.

"I think I intend to make my leave," replied Adam. He turned around and faced the Tarlagian ambassador.

"If it were possible I could have a talk to you, private, before leaving here today, I would be quite grateful."

"Of course we can do it here or go to My Compound. At the Embassy their is less chance of us being overheard."

"Let's go to the embassy," replied Adam, beckoning his security people to follow him into his convoy.

bump

"Right, follow us and we can talk."

"Pleasure seeing you, be sure to contact my office if you require anything, I have arranged for the phone to be staffed twentyfourseven"

As the two delegations left, Lady Bacchus lent into her intercom. "Have security stop all foreign vehicles leaving this compound. I want all electronic devices to be retrieved from the Northern Colonies delegation. Inform them that diplomatic immunity was partially waived due to the state of emergency" No sooner had a crackly "yes ma'am" come down the line, than Lady Bacchus had retrieved the red phone on her desk.

"A state of emergency as defined by Section14(a) of the National Security and Defence (Rot) Act is hereby declared" Replacing the receiver, she sighed briefly as her order was relayed without delay to the joints chiefs of staff and ground commanders in Crete.

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

A large dilapidated apartment block, Capital City, Crete

A fan swings lazily overhead, casting the afternoon shadows over the crackling paint, the empty bottles of scotch, the crates of weapons, maps and money. I blanket painted with the face of Che Guerra hangs on wall. Against it sits a lone man dressed in camouflage pants and a white singlet, as his blood rushed to his face; the television blared the ominous news...

"A state of emergency is now in affect across the entire country of Crete, as selected curfews remain in affect." The manicured voice of the announcer gave away her Rotovian heritage, as she paused before continuing "Reports that Praetorians have been withdrawing from major population centers were confirmed this morning by the Chief Minister, who announced Presiding Officer of Duchy, Lady Nicoletta Bacchus had given the order du..."

The broadcast is cut off by a long winding sound, followed by a blinding flash of light, and thundering roar.

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

Press Briefing Station, Imperial Palace, Bacchus City (45mins North of Capital)

"Ladies and gentlemen of the press, Colonel Marcus Rose-Pierce, Chief Press Officer of the Rotovian Presence in Crete..."

"Good Afternoon, from 10am this morning Rotovian Naval Air Corps planes commandeered by the Praetorian Guard struck selected urban targets with the intention of neutralising specific targets... we are placing the death toll at 15,000 of which we are estimating the majority were either the selected targets, known associates, or person harbouring the targets... there'll be no questions today"

As the Tarlagian Ambassador got into his armored SUV for the trip back his phone rang.
"Sir, This is Mr Brown. We just got word from the Dragon that Cretan combat aircraft are over the Capital and it looks like they are going to be attacking targets in the city."
Very well Mr. Brown inform Mr. Wellington to rush delivery on the supplies to our friends.
I also want our plain clothes people to put a rush on bringing the families of our workers in."
"Yes Sir, The Naval personal has also just arrived do you want them deployed on the walls?"
Not yet wait until the Rotovian troops leave the area then put them on the walls. I want you to see if the navy can send in an additional force just in case we have to defend the Colonial Compound also. They want to depend on the locals and they just pissed off her Ladyship, so I think any local security will be slow in coming."

Hanging up the phone he looked out the front of the SUV "Max Why are the searching the Colonial transports?"

A Praetorian in a long black trench-coat taps on the window on the window with a leather gloved hand. "Please step outside of the vehicle, this is security check"

"Huh," Adam replied. "What's going on?"

Adam opened the window and produced his Northern Colonies diplomatic passport.

"I have immunity from searches," he replied.

"Thank you sir" The Praetorian thumbs the passport briefly, before returning it "I am afraid that those privileges were temporarily waived in this case, due to the state of emergency. As a matter of national security and for your own safety I must ask you to hand over all electronic devices, fire-arms, weapons, explosives"

Waiving over a group of officers, he continues "Your cooperation is appreciated, sir"

The two agents went to their radios. After a few seconds, they produced their P90 Personal Defensive weapon. The police officers protecting the convoy also pulled out their sidearms and the SWAT vans opened, producing men with rifles and submachine guns (OOC: I don't know what weapons they use, Rotovia, you can make it up).

"I don't think so," replied Adam harshly. "Removing immunity represents a breach of diplomatic convention and laws. And an attack on this convoy will constitute an Act of War against the Federation of Northern Colonies. I, as Consular-General for the Northern Colonies in Crete, am required to inform you that nothing will be searched or removed from this convoy. Thus, I am also ordering you to back off and let this convoy move."

"With all due respect, sir, you are in a war zone and as such can be subject to search" Motioning towards the growing crowd of Praetorians drawing weapons and the two columns of armed vehicles moving to surround the convoy "And I am afraid the Praetorian Guard does not take order from anyone, save our King"

"Long live the King!" comes the instant reply of the Praetorians

"Please hand over the following items; firearms, weapons, explosives or electronic devices" his voice much more sternly toned, as gun torrents begin to rise from the armed vehicles

Hearing what was going on Ambassador Dever moved forward with his four security men.Three carrying their P-90 Personal Defense Weapons (OCC We must get them from the same supplier) and Max the driver carrying a FN Five Seven pistol. Going up to the leader of the Rotovian security unit the Ambassador added his weight to the Colonial position. "Removal of Diplomatic immunity without prior knowledge is against international law. As the Representative from the Northern Colonies has stated any search upon his person or official vehicle is not permitted. Also any search against myself would be considered a hostile act by His Duke's Government. If you attempt to enforce your orders by use of violence it would be considered an act of aggression by both Governments and I really do not think you want to start a war today."

"That is not. Going. To. Happen," Adam said more agitated then would probably be wise.

Whilst the altercation was going on, the driver of the Rolls-Royce was video-taping the whole incident.
_______________________________________________________________
Colonial Embassy in Rotovia

The Northern Colonies Ambassador to Rotovia, or more formally styled, His Most Excellency's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Constitutional Republic of Rotovia was Peter Francois. His family had a lineage of people who had over the years served in the foreign service. Getting the job as the Ambassador to Rotovia provided him with a extremely cushy job, as the Rotovian post was reserved for senior diplomats.

"Sir," replied a secretary. "Urgent video stream from Crete."

"Put it up of the screen," replied Peter, taking a sip of his coffee.

The shots of the Praetorian Guard holding their weapons and and armoured vehicles made John spit out his coffee onto his suit.

"Get me the foreign office! NOW!"

_____________________________________________________________
Houses of Parliament
The Federal Enclave, Freedom City
Northern Colonies

"Holding the consular hostage? What!" John Nickelmeyer cried into the phone. "You're not serious are you?"

"Why the fuck would I kid about something like that?" Came the rhetorical reply from Peter Francois.

"Ok, I get everything to gear into gear."

John put the phone down and immediately when to his secretary.

"I want you to summon the Rotovian Ambassador at ONCE!" He replied. "Then tell the Prime Minister to convene a war council meeting."

"Yes sir," replied the secretary, beginning to dial the numbers.

Seeing that things may blow up at any moment Mr. Dever pulled his cell phone slowly from his pocket and hits the redial. "Mr. Brown, situation 26 please inform the Prime-Minister."
After speaking into the phone he begins panning the cell phones camera over the scene.



Tarlagian Compound Crete

Mr Brown looked at the incoming images all most in shock "My God have they gone insane!" Going over to his computer console Brown began entering commands sending the incoming signal to not only the Office of Foreign Affairs but also to the Naval ships sitting off the coast in international waters.

ABORD H.D.S. GOLD DRAGON, INTERNATIONAL WATERS OFF OF CRETE

"Sir, I have an incoming vid. signal from the Embassy on Crete. It is marked as a red flash."
Captain Ken Yojimbo walked over to the Holo-Table and brought the signal up. "Commander Grumman, look at this. Why in the name of God is the Rotovian Praetorian Guard holding weapons on our people and the Northern Colonies Representative?"
"I Don't know Boss, but a situation 26 has been called by Mr. Dever."
"What is that?"
Looking it up on his Padd unit Commander Grumman responded "According to the Diplomatic flash code book a 26 is the local government has broken international law and may attack diplomatic personal at this location using deadly force."
"Are they trying to start a war. If they so much a give Mr.Dever a splinter the Duchess will go ape shit."
"Why is that Boss?"
"You don't know, During the Lords Rebellion Mr. Dever worked in the Naval Procurement department. During the fighting Dever along with about 100 other people from that department took their side arms and help defend Our Lady of Hope Hospital. The same hospital the Duchess was trapped in. Dever was one of 5 survivors from that Department after the fighting was over. Duchess Ellen gave him the job in Crete as a reword for helping save her and the children's ward of the Hospital."
"What do we do?"

"Simple Grumman"
With that statement he picked up his headset connected to the ships communications unit. "Attention, Set condition RED through out the ship. Order the rest of the Squadron to set condition RED"

OOC: There are no international waters around Crete
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v209/Dionysus777/thumb_Rotovia-Alternate.gif

Didnt we set the Northern Colonies to be where Carthaginian Athens is now?

OCC then the task force can be in Colonial waters or about 300 miles out. Seeing you have just brought this up now ( I have never really seen the map so I did not know)and I have all ready established that the small task force is out there. the task force still should be 300 miles of the island (Maxim Helicopter range

The Task force is as follows
Gold Dragon CVH
Roger Young LSA (Landing Ship Assault)
LST-409 (Landing Ship Tank)
4X Fast Corvettes (Think heavily armed Frigates)
Grander Bay Supply Ship


Off the map to the west is a Carrier Task force.
Grand Isle CVN
Valour CVL
Vendetta CVL
Tahoe CAG
Robert W. Bethel DDG
Conrad V.Banes DDG
4X Fast Corvettes

Seeing the map in better detail I could be west of Crete outside of your home fleet patrol line.

Didnt we set the Northern Colonies to be where Carthaginian Athens is now?

OOC: I seem to remember this, sorry this is the most up to date map I have. Since none of the countries on the map still exist you can be anywhere.

OOC: Ok cool, now lets get roleplaying, instead of this OOC thing.

OCC:I will place the Ships just out side of your patrol range.

OOC: Temporary hiatus due to personal reasons (couple of IRL days, probably)

OOC: I intend to put some sort of post in regards to war council meeting and planning to bust the consular out of the shit hits the fan.

OCC I will most likely post on the warships actions.

OOC: I'm also going to do Special Forces planning here. Once I do the other post, this message will be removed.
SIC:
A room within the CAF (Colonial Armed Forces) Military HQ

Men, dressed in military uniform were talking amongst themselves. They had been summoned because of special skills they had. Skills that could come in useful in this situation.

A door open, and in walked a somewhat elderly man. Nevertheless, he look quite healthy for his age.

"What took you so long, Simons?" Asked a man, his sand-coloured beret indicating his regiment as the Omega Force Regiment, a special forces unit, equivalent to the SAS or Delta Force.

"Well, Colonel Anderson," replied the elderly man. "Traffic. Plus you should be calling me sir."

"Try and make me," he said, before adding sarcastically, "sir"

"Guys, peace," replied another man in the room. His blue uniform indicated that he was part of the Northern Colonies Air Force. "We have a major situation here, and we need the Special Operations Commander, Buckley to talk.”

“Yes,” the elderly man began. “This situation is as follows. The Consular-General is currently been held hostage by the Praetorian Guards. Currently, diplomatic manoeuvres are happening, but if that fails, our objectives are simple. To eliminate the threat surrounding the Consular and to evacuate him and his entourage from Crete.”

He put up a few photos.

“This is what we are up against,” Major General George Buckley pointed out. “They have armoured vehicles pointing at the Consular and they are bound to have more of these floating around the city.”

He then pointed to the satellite pictures of the scene.

“We believe there are upwards of 30 people around the Consular, but there may be more.

The Air Force man interrupted.

“Well, first of all,” replied Wing Commander Paul Carmichael. “We need to find a place where we can land aircraft into to begin this mission. We need to scout locations around Bacchus which is flat, and where we can get people to deploy landing lights.”

“Right,” replied Major General George Buckley.

A man wearing a light blue beret, indicating that he was part of Army Aviation, interrupted.

“We also need a way to sneak into the city,” replied Colonel Paul Pina, Officer Commanding of the Special Aviation Operations Regiment .

“How fast can we repaint army vehicles,” replied Colonel Mitchell Wyatt, the man in the sand-coloured beret.

“I don’t know,” replied Buckley. “Maybe a few days.”

“Ok,” he replied. The best way is probably to borrow some vehicles from a media network or paint our vehicles to look like vehicles from a media network here in Northern Colonies and then use it to try and travel into the city itself. “But we need to set this up now.

“Of course,” replied the Major General. “I’ll get on the phone now,” taking the phone of the handle on the desk.

H.D.S. Gold Dragon, 300 miles off the coast of Crete

Captain Yojimbo looked at the pictures being transmitted from Ambassador Dever over his cell phone.
"Grummand are they getting this back at command?"
"Yes Sir, as far as I can tell Fleet command and the Duke's office are receiving this also." Pausing for a moment to listen to an incoming message over his earpiece commander Grummand turned back to his commanding officer.
"Boss, we have an incoming message from Fleet Comm. message as follows
"Take what ever actions necessary to secure the safety of Talagian Diplomatic personal on Crete." They also are trying to patch us through to the Northern Colonies Military Command to see if we can either put something together with them or at least keep out of each others way."
Thank you Mr. Grummand, have communications see if they can hurry up the up link with the Colonies. In the meantime get me the commander of the Grand Isle and see if they can close with us so we can get some air cover. If this turns into a shooting war I want some protection from air attacks."
"Communications is working on the up link now we just have to get through to the right people"

bump for rotovia

bumping again

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