NationStates Jolt Archive

OOC: This thread is only for people who signed up in this OOC thread (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=586148&page=4).
IC:
The Capital of the Holy Osean Empire, New Constantinople, was a glorious City, sharing much of the grandness, wealth and sophistication of the City it had been built to rival. The Oseans, in ancient times, had an unique relation with Byzantium, more commonly known as Eastern Roman Empire, who due to the Osean Empire being less behind the Eastern Roman Empire than most other nations at the time. This meant that the Oseans had taken much of the Eastern Roman Empire's culture and knowlage. Unfortunatly, this ended when the Ottoman Empire captured Constatinople and ended the Eastern Roman Empire's existance. The Oseans had thought that they wouldn't suffer the same fate. But now that looked much more likely than ever.

The Ottomans, which had managed to survive the Centuries like the Oseans and had a long standing rivalry with the Holy Osean Empire. Recently the empire had had success in the balkans, taking significant territory from the Ottomans, but then a terrible thing happened. The Ottoman army launched an offensive in the caucasus, smashing through the defences at the frontier and inflicting considerable losses against the Osean army, that already been weakened by recent internal conflicts. Sultan Suleiman III, the ruler of the Ottoman empire, did accept a peace offer, but there was clear evidence that this was just so he could gain the time to built up the supplies and troops for another offensive. With that in mind, some Oseans began to consider options that they normally would never approve of.

"...Your Majesty, I must advice you against this!" the Patriarch angrly shouted. "We all know what happened to the Eastern Roman Empire thanks to trusting them. It would be foolish to ask them...". Alexius I, Holy Osean Emperor replied "I have made my decision Patriarch and it is the only one available to us. Remember that the people we will deal with aren't the same type of people who the Byzantine had to deal with. Also, remember that the fate of our people could be in the balance. We need to make these tough choices now, or there will be no hope for us". The Patriarch's face became wearly and this was evident in his voice as he replied "I hope you're right you're right, your highness. If you excuse me, I have my duties to attend to". Then the Patriarch left the room, with one of the Varangian Guards following him. Once he left, the Emperor began to compose a message, one he knew would decide the fate of the Empire.


To: Fellow Christians of the World

My fellow Christians, I send you this request, in trust that your faith will enable you to make the right responce to it. My nation has recently suffered terribly at the hands of the enemy of all Chistians. By this, I talk of the muslims of the Ottoman Empire, who at this very moment are preparing to launch their next assault to crush those who oppose them. I ask that you think of the efforts of my people against this enemy when you think of your answer to what I propose. That, precisely, is for an offensive from the territory against the enemy. What I shall support you with is the armed forces of the empire and my forces will help supply your forces during their efforts. In exchange, I only ask that the Holy Osean Empire's rightfull territory is returned to us. You may claim anything you may seek from the rest of the Ottoman Empire, if riches and territory are what you desire. I await your answer with much trepitation.

Sincearly,
His Imperial Majesty, Alexius I, Holy Osean Emperor

A message came in on the Worldwide Christian Broadcasting Network(WCBN). It read:

To: Fellow Christians of the World

My fellow Christians, I send you this request, in trust that your faith will enable you to make the right responce to it. My nation has recently suffered terribly at the hands of the enemy of all Chistians. By this, I talk of the muslims of the Ottoman Empire, who at this very moment are preparing to launch their next assault to crush those who oppose them. I ask that you think of the efforts of my people against this enemy when you think of your answer to what I propose. That, precisely, is for an offensive from the territory against the enemy. What I shall support you with is the armed forces of the empire and my forces will help supply your forces during their efforts. In exchange, I only ask that the Holy Osean Empire's rightfull territory is returned to us. You may claim anything you may seek from the rest of the Ottoman Empire, if riches and territory are what you desire. I await your answer with much trepitation.

Sincearly,
His Imperial Majesty, Alexius I, Holy Osean Emperor


Grand Master Jungingen thought over the message, sitting in the Palace in Danzig, capital of the Teutonic Order. This Osean Empire had never talked with the Teutonic Order before, but they now requested help. He turned to his aid.
"Richard, what do you think?"

"Sir, this can only mean one thing. The Ottomans are stirring again to take Europe once and for all, and will be attempting to overrun anyone, without mercy. However little we know them, we must help the Oseans."

"How many troops do you believe we should send?"

"Sire, I would say one division, because the rest of the army must be kept in reserve. This division, however, must be elite, bred and raised to fight muslims. I think that the 16th Teutonic Armored Division is the unit for the job. Shall I inform General Dachar?"

"No, I shall lead the division personally."

"But sire, the danger..."

"I will hear none of it. Inform the dispatch station and prepare my Master Tank."

"I will radio the barracks..."

"No, Richard. Do it personally."

Mangana Palace
Constantinopolis Secundus
New Chalcedon

The sunlit brightness of the room seemed out of place with the importance of the decisions carried out here on a daily basis. But such was the nature of power - popular truism notwithstanding, appearance was not reality as far as power was concerned.

The sandalwood desk was not occupied, being reserved for formal occasions. When his true friends came visiting, Michael Doukas-Palaiologos preferred to speak with them in the cushioned solar nook off to one side, which is where he waited for his current visitor to arrange his elderly anatomy.

Gennadius Tzophomeres, Patriarch of Constantinopolis Secundus and Apostolic Head of the Orthodox Church of Christ, was indeed a very elderly man. He made a habit of joking that he was, in fact, the man cursed to live forever, and some wondered if this had some basis in fact, given that he had been the Patriarch of the city for over fifty years.

He finished arranging himself on the overstuffed cushions, and turned to his Emperor and the other occupant of the alclove.

"Andras, good to see you again. Your Majesty, you sent for me?"

While the elderly (but not as much so as the Patriarch) man settled for a nod of greeting, the Emperor did not. "Yes, Gennadius, I did. Have you read the briefing we had sent to your office?"

"I'm old, boy, not senile. Of course I read it!" The Patriach indulged in an entirely faked show of high dudgeon at this, and then turned serious again. "It's not a good situation, and as a student of history, I don't need to show you the parallels, obviously."

"I know. But the Empire has recently engaged in significant trade with moderate Islamic nations - and we need a very good reason indeed to alienate them. Therefore, the Empire cannot get officially involved."

The old cleric was quick to note the use of the word officially. "Am I to take it, Majesty, that you have an unofficial response?"

"Of course, Gennadius. I have no desire to allow the descendents of those to forced us from our homeland so many years ago to win again. But, you'll have to be prepared to take the fall if it goes wrong......."

***

Imperial Palace,
New Constantinople
Osean Empire

The Emperor's mailbox had an unusual item in it: a letter sealed with a double-headed Imperial eagle, in black on gold.

A cursory knowledge of history would reveal that the Double Eagle standard was the Imperial standard of the late Byzantine Empire - except that it was done in gold on red, not black on gold as this letter was.

The citizens of the Osean Empire often heard rumors. This wasn't unusual, it happened whether there was people to here them. But new rumors were on the streets. People were all talking abou how the emperor had apparently asked for aid from the rest of the christian community, including those of the Catholic Church. Others talked about forces from the Knights templar supposedly marching to aid the empire.

Of course people began to wildly distort them and fringe groups were claming that the Emperor had apperently decided to recognize the Pope as superior to himself or that he was willing to sell his crown to anyone that would lend troops. These claims were false but they were to be expected, when considering the dire situation. Those in power knew the truth. They prepared to meet the Knights templar as they arrived. At the same time, a letter, one sealed with with a double-headed Imperial eagle, in black on gold, was rushed to the Holy Osean Emperor.

Grand Master Jungingen opened the commander's hatch on his Master Tank. It was over 25 years old, but recent upgrades had given it a heavy 240mm gun, 4 50 calibre machine guns, and rocket pods. When he was in that vehicle, he felt on top of the world. No one could stop him in his tank. And with his guard of 500 Companion-class light tanks, and the rest of his division, 800 tanks and 2000 infantry, he was unstoppable.

The Grand Masters of the Teutonic Order had been fighting in Europe for centuries, their calvary and modern tanks were their power. They had bulldozed Poland and Lithuania, but they had also lost many times. Since the new Teutonic Heavy Tanks (THTs) were introduced, there had been no defeat. The Knights of the Order expected to win, and their morale had never been higher when they approached the huge gates of New Constantinople.

Imperial Palace,
New Constantinople
Osean Empire

The letter, when it was opened, was revealed to be written in a forward, masculine hand, with another folded within it. The text was as follows:

Imperial cousin,

I must blush with shame to know that we, the descendants and survivors of the ancient Empire, have forgotten about you, who were apparently our friends. But no longer. We will aid you in the situation you face, although for reasons of State we cannot do so openly. You will receive an offer of aid which you will know had Our - private - blessing.

Michael Doukas-Palaiologos,
Emperor and Lord of New Chalcedon.

The second letter was typed, rather than handwritten, and read as follows:

Imperial Majesty

I have taken the liberty of preparing a volunteer force of some two thousand combat troops, with the possibility of more to follow. The commander will be Nikolaus Pherides, lately an officer of the Imperial Army and a loyal son of the Holy Mother Church. The troops will be embarked on the liner Duchess of Athos, which will be sailing in company with the container ship Kalokanides, which will be carrying the bulk of their equipment, under escort of a small Imperial taskforce to prevent interference. These two ships will make their way toward your western ports, and Lt.-Col. Pherides will make contact with the officers you designate.

Gennadius III Tzophomeres
Patriarch of Constantinopolis Secundus
Apostolic Head of the Orthodox Church of Christ

In Belgrade,Capital city of the Federation stood a huge white building,foreign tourists always thought that it is the Senate building because of its beaty and its marble colums...but that was just a simple mistake,those were the
Headquarters of Cukaricas most infamous anti-muslim group.
The Order of the Holy Martyr existed for about one thousand years,it was blessed by the first Cukarican Patriarch now canonised Saint Jaconicus.
It was established in the Early medieval times to defend the Dukedom of Cukarica from Muslim invaders from the Emirs of Anatolia.
It's members banned from most of Muslim and Christian countries its radical beliefs sought refuge in the Federation of Cukarica,its cradle.
Five years ago a well know scholar from the Federal University of Sociology took power as orders 187th Grand Master-Isildien Hofenstaudt,most recently a new Crusade was called to help the Holy Empire of Osea against the Ottoman Empire,a muslim country who was involved in the war against Orthodox Christians for centuries.
Federation didnt want to fight a full scale war,but they managed to find a way to help their Orthodox brothers.
Heavily equiped Order was ready for the Muslim threat.
A Holy war has started...
________________________



To: Fellow Christians of the World

My fellow Christians, I send you this request, in trust that your faith will enable you to make the right responce to it. My nation has recently suffered terribly at the hands of the enemy of all Chistians. By this, I talk of the muslims of the Ottoman Empire, who at this very moment are preparing to launch their next assault to crush those who oppose them. I ask that you think of the efforts of my people against this enemy when you think of your answer to what I propose. That, precisely, is for an offensive from the territory against the enemy. What I shall support you with is the armed forces of the empire and my forces will help supply your forces during their efforts. In exchange, I only ask that the Holy Osean Empire's rightfull territory is returned to us. You may claim anything you may seek from the rest of the Ottoman Empire, if riches and territory are what you desire. I await your answer with much trepitation.

Sincearly,
His Imperial Majesty, Alexius I, Holy Osean Emperor


Isildien's response


"Highest of the high,Liberator of the opressed,Christendom will respond,consider that the Order of The Holy Martyr is under your just command. 15 thousand men have enlisted in our Crusader od Faith Chapter,we have dedicated to your justified cause.
High Vindicator Alandien took personal command and with your help,noble one.Will crush anyone who oposes the righteous Holy Osean Emperor,Emperor of all Christians.
Your trusted servant
Grand Inquisitor Isildien
Grand Master of The Order of the Holy Martyr


Naval Base Tikidion

Not officialy supported by the goverment Crusader's quiety got onboard their transports and were escorted by the Cukarican navy towards the Osean harbors.
Around 15 thousand men enlisted as crusaders,and took arms to libarate and help their Osean brethren,supported by around 1000 APC's and tanks they were quite a sight to see...Citizens of Tikidion proudly watched their men sailing into the unknow knowing that they will not fail Christendom and their Faith.
The huge fleet departed,it was the second largest naval deployment that was deployed from Tikidion ever.
The calm ocean breeze tenderly blew across the faces of the proud Crusaders.
Everything started quitely...


[OOC:]Going to add some pictures later if neccesary,also i posted this realy fast so ill search for typos later :)

At New Constantinpole, the people watched in awe as the Teutonic forces moved through the New city wall, which had been built as the city grew too big for the old city walls. The new walls, while designed in a way that would please the Osean's more classical astetical sences, was designed to be capable of withstanding an attack by modern forces. The old city wall, while grand and still maintained, would not serve much purpose against a modern force and served more as a representation of the empire's eternal glory than anything else. However, the most important buildings of the empire and its most powerfull people lived behind it, so none of the Teutonic soldier except their commanders of the force would be allowed within its gates, and the Oseans intended to keep an eye on all the Teutonic Knights in the city during their visit.

.............

Alexius read both the letters from New Chalcedon and the letter from the Order of The Holy Martyr. The letter from the Order was interesting, with them coming from Cukaria which was one on Osea's allies. However, the thought of the Holy Osean Emperor, the lord and master of an empire with billions of people in it's territories, rested on another rather unexpected matter. How did we not find out about their survival sooner was what Alexius was thinking. We had heard rumors, of course, but we never expected this. But we can try anf figure out at a later point, when we have the time to. Now, we should concentrate on renewing the relations we once had with with our apparent cousins from the centuries it has been neglected. With this in mind, he began to write his reponces to both messages.


Maximum Encription Level Enabled
To: Michael Doukas-Palaiologos, Emperor and Lord of New Chalcedon

It is truely a surprise for me and my people to discover the long forgotten ties between our people, and a blessing that it was discovered at a time that that it could do the most good. I thank you dearly for your aid and understand your reasons for wanting be be openly seen supporting us. I hope that our two people become steadfast allies for the unseeable future.

Sincearly,
His Imperial Majesty, Alexius I, Holy Osean Emperor

Maximum Encription Level Enabled
To: Grand Inquisitor Isildien, Grand Master of The Order of the Holy Martyr

It is truely a testement to the strength of our two people's friendship that you can be trusted to stand by us as you always do. We await the arrival of your forces with much exhaltation, and am certain the only victory waits us on the battlefield.

Sincearly,
His Imperial Majesty, Alexius I, Holy Osean Emperor

During the long series of wars that had brought the Wolf Marshalls into power in the Wolf Hold, religious persucution had been rampant, with each ethnic group using the ensuing violence and anarchy to make good on old threats and to as the different groups put it 'Purify the Nation'. During the 2nd Civil War a large scale secondary conflict erupted between Islamic and Christian seperatist groups. As casulties on both sides mounted the Christians decided it would be better for them if the left the Wolf Hold which was being torn apart by internal strife. They left on boats and by road. This new nation became nown as the Fee Chrisitan Union, a heavily goverened therocracy which became a haven for all christians fleeing war, oppresion and some who just wanted to live amongst brothers. Not to be heard from till after the 6th civil war (OOC: Yes we had that many). The relations developed and so did the armament contracts, as Wolverine Defence began arming them alongside the Wolf Hold. The Church of Larka is a slightly contreversial church in christianty, following the majority of the teachings but is intesperesed with various lore from the Cult of Lupus.




To: Fellow Christians of the World

My fellow Christians, I send you this request, in trust that your faith will enable you to make the right responce to it. My nation has recently suffered terribly at the hands of the enemy of all Chistians. By this, I talk of the muslims of the Ottoman Empire, who at this very moment are preparing to launch their next assault to crush those who oppose them. I ask that you think of the efforts of my people against this enemy when you think of your answer to what I propose. That, precisely, is for an offensive from the territory against the enemy. What I shall support you with is the armed forces of the empire and my forces will help supply your forces during their efforts. In exchange, I only ask that the Holy Osean Empire's rightfull territory is returned to us. You may claim anything you may seek from the rest of the Ottoman Empire, if riches and territory are what you desire. I await your answer with much trepitation.

Sincearly,
His Imperial Majesty, Alexius I, Holy Osean Emperor

To: His Imperial Majesty, Alexius I, Holy Osean Emperor

It saddens us to here of the attacks made upon you by the cowardly muslimsof the Ottoman Empire. I am deploying the Order Of the Wolf, are premier assault Division. We are selves have many people who have suffered at the hands of the Ottoman Empire and we are more then willing to asist you in crushing these little upstarts. The Order Of The Wolf is led be General Fell, he has been ordered to liase fully with you and any other Christian nations joining this 'crusade'.

Sincearly
The First Dragga Micheal Servin

Somwhere in the Ocean
The large fleet of ships that were carrying the 15,000 odd men, the 2,175 vehicles and 110 aircraft of the Order Of The Wolf were approaching the Harbours of Osea. They were under escort from only 2 Cruisers and 6 Frigates. The belived there go would protect them from harm.

The Oseans prepared their Harbours to recieve the troops from the Order Of The Wolf. They also began to prepare their own supplies and mobilise their forces in preperation for the upcoming offensive. Also, a reply was sent to the Order of the Wolf.

To: The First Dragga Micheal Servin

We are truely grateful for your aide. Soon your forces will join ours and the forces of the other Christian forces for a grand offensive, one on a scale that has rarely been achieved before and, once it has finished, we will be the ones to emerge triumphent.

Imperial News Network Broadcast, New Chalcedon.

The elderly, stick-thin man was a familiar sight to the people of the Empire. His name as Andrask Lasarkis, and he had been the Secretary to the Crown - effectively, the Empire's Foreign Minister - for almost thirty years. However, today he had news that would rock the Empire's political system to its foundation.

"Please, Ladies and Gentlemen. I have a statement to give." The room full of journalists eventually quieted once they realised that Lasarkis wasn't continuing until he had quiet.

"The Imperial Palace has received communications from a nation formerly unknown to the Empire. I would like to quell the wilder speculations - the 'Osean Empire' is not a splinter-branch of our peoples' previous Empire. It is, instead, apparently one of our former Empire's closest friends."

"The question has been asked - why have we not remembered them? I would advise all who have this question to recall that our historical archives are fragmentary at best - for instance, the former Empire had nine Emperors by the name of Michael, yet our current Emperor is Michael the Sixth. It is entirely plausible, given the state of disarray our ancestors fled Constantinople in, that we would forget over the generations even our closest allies."

"It is also true that the Osean Empire has fallen under attack. Given our nation's trading interests in the region, my office has seen fit to formally recommend to the Imperial Estates that the Empire not be overtly engaged in military action to support the Oseans, although, naturally, the Estates will have the final say on the matter."

"Until that matter is decided, however, the Emperor has directed that formal diplomatic relations will be established as soon as possible, and that the Empire will cut off any aid we grant to any power that sanctions, backs or supports, in any way, the attack on the Osean Empire."

As the room erupts into a sea of questions, the image fades to dark, and a young, attractive woman appears on screen.

"The appearance by Secretary Lasarkis constitutes the extent of the Palace's statement on the matter, and the Estates has been called into emergency session to discuss the issue of support for the Oseans. Political analysts expect a tight vote, with the dominant Imperial Party being the only party supporting the idea of military involvement. The issue may not be resolved for some days yet."

"This is Juliana Papadapolous, for the Imperial News Network. For more on this issue, pelase watch our nine o'clock broadcast, which will feature a panel of academic and professional experts in the field."

Western Coast of Osea
Present Time.

The two shipes appeared somewhat mismatched: one, a luxury liner, and the other, a somewhat battered container ship. They looked further out of place by virtue of their escorts: four sleek, brand-spanking new Imperial Navy warships, two destroyers and two frigates.

The mismatched convoy approached the edge of Osean waters, and waited to be noticed by their soon-to-be hosts.....or some other group less friendly.

***

Encryption Level: Maximum.

From: Michael Doukas-Paliologos, Emperor of New Chalcedon.
To: Alexius I, Emperor of the Holy Osean Empire.
Re: Possibilities.

Imperial Cousin,

A thought has occured to members of Our staff. Whilst the Empire cannot - absent provocation from the Ottomans - take direct action in your support, we can assist the Osean Empire in support matters - resources, morale etc.

I propose that a state visit by myself to your Empire be arranged, partly to demonstrate New Chalcedon's solidarity with Osea, and partly to reassure your people that the situation is not disastrous.

[Signed]

Michael VI Doukas-Palaiologos
Emperor and Lord of New Chalcedon.

"It would appear that the efbekydz have once again done us the favor of killing each other." The man was knelt at the altar of Temple Prime (http://images.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://www.cybergooch.com/images/tibsunarchive/nt_03.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.cybergooch.com/pages/tibsunarchive/nodtemple.htm&usg=__-Rbrgx5Sr3NEdBhAEu65_6bv8eo=&h=400&w=640&sz=58&hl=en&start=6&um=1&tbnid=XtqwDmiTFB6TWM:&tbnh=86&tbnw=137&prev=/images%3Fq%3DNod%2Btemple%26hl%3Den%26safe%3Doff%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-GB:official%26sa%3DN%26um%3D1) in Karasi, wearing the black, crimson and gold habit of the Alkefosalz, the Kalist priests. What was distinguishing about this particular man, however, was a tiny, almost unnoticable pair of crimson wings embroidered into his right sleeve. "But this is not enough." He stood, invisible in the dark but for the red slihoutte the candles on the altar gave him. He bowed to a statue of Kal (http://cghub.com/files/Image/8083/image.jpg) at the far end of the Temple, before turning to the man who was seated behind him. Like the Ordinator (Alkefosal), the man was too wearing a robe. "Kal demands the blood of the heretics, and you have earned your right to be his agent."
The man smiled and nodded in response. "Go and serve your Lord. Eliminate the leaders of the heretics. Show them the futility of their faith and their struggle." He turned back to the altar. The man behind him stood, bowed to the staute and slowly walked out of the Temple into the busy city street outside.

He walked, head down and hands clasped together in prayer. His stiched-together lips curved into a grin.
So. Time to test all of that training, finally. And they said we were a waste of tax payer's money.

New Constantinople

The Grand Master felt power in his fists as he moved through the Old City Walls, towards the Grand Palace of the Osean Empire. His tank took up almost the entire street, and the division would not completely fit into the city, so most remained outside of the New City Walls. Only Jungingen and 15 Companion Tanks stopped before the palace. He walked in, and all guards stepped aside. He walked into the office of the Emperor. A heavily robed man stood there. The Grand Master shook his hand.

"How are you faring, Emperor?"

Due to the Ottomans control of the Dardanelles, the New Chalcedon ships were directed to ports in the province of Croatia. There were a few encounters with Ottoman vessals. However they did not fire on them due to their neutrality, but did follow them untill the Chalcedon ships entered Osean waters where they were met by ships of the Osean Navy, which ecorted them to the ports.

.............

In the Palace, Alexius was again discussing the situation with his advisors. There was the arrival of the Knights Templar to discuss as well as the message from New Chalcedon. First, a member of the Osean high command, Heraclius Xiphias, picked up a report and said "We have managed to partially restore our troop levels through the moblization of our reserves. Our navy does continue to enjoy a level of superiority over the enemy fleet. However, I do question the quality of the new troops. They are inexperianced, so we will quite reliant on the foreign forces for now. I would recommend that we consider hiring mercenaries to bolster our forces and help improve the experiance of our fresh troops". Alexius was quite for a moment, and only after he had carefuly thought about the situation did he respond with "I believe your assesment of the situation is quite correct. Very well, I am willing to begin hiring but I want Osean forces close to them at all times....".

There was a loud knock on the door. The door was opened to reveal a messenger who told Alexius that the Grand Master of the Teutonic Order had arrived. The aide was told to let him in. The appearence of the Grand Master was a stark contrast to the Emperor in his Imperial robes and crown, the aides who were also in robes and the Varangian guards who were in ceremonial armour (http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo201/Osea767/Varangian_Guard.jpg). Heraclius was in military uniform and some of the Varangian Guardsmen were not in their ceremonial armour but in conventional Osean military armour (http://i376.photobucket.com/albums/oo201/Osea767/Killzone202.jpg). Alexius then responded to the Grand Master by shaking his hand and replying "Well enough. I believe there are important matters for us to discuss". Almost as an afterthough, he added "How are you faring, Grand Master?".

.............

Once the Emperor gained some time, he prepard a responce to the message from New Chalcedon.

Maximum Encription Level Enabled
To: Michael Doukas-Palaiologos, Emperor and Lord of New Chalcedon

The Osean people will be thankfull for whatever aid you may provide. As for your proposal of a state visit by yourself to the Holy Osean Empire, I, after consultation with my foreign minister, agree with you. Feel free to decide a date and time that will best suit you.

"Not too well, since I heard of the recent defeats in the Caucasus. These times are dire indeed." Jungingen stood there in the room, with the Emperor in his robes and crown and his advisors in their armor. They looked very different than the Grand Master, who had his modern camouflage trench coat with his tank commander's hat still on, the worn Catholic cross on his chest.

Imperial News Network Broadcast, New Chalcedon.

The entire Empire was watching - it was rarely that the Emperor chose to address his entire Empire live. The seriousl-looking young man sat behind a mahogany desk, and began speaking, without a hint of looking at a speech:

"My people, citizens of the Empire. I know that the media news services have kept the people informed of recent developments in the Osean situation, however, in order to avoid misinterpretation, I wish to address this situation directly and personally."

"It is Our view, as the Emperor of the Eastern Roman Empire, that this situation is too serious not to demand direct action on the part of the Empire. We have therefore decided, by Imperial fiat, to accept the Holy Osean Emperor's invitation of a State visit. We will depart the Empire in approximately three weeks time, and return approximately three weeks after that."

"We know that the Ottoman Empire will receive this broadcast, either directly or via intermediaries. Therefore, this part of Our speech is aimed at the Ottoman Empire: We are no longer the self-divided fools who did your work for you seven hundred years ago. We are the Eastern Roman Empire, ancient and uninterrupted, and whilst We recognise your dominion over your territory, We will fight to defend Our allies. Please, for the sake of peace and harmony between our peoples, do not force Us to take this path."

"May the Creator's light shine on all of His children, reminding them that we are all beloved by Him."

*Screen fades*

***

Offician Comminication from the desk of His Imperial Majesty

To: His Imperial Majesty, Alexius I of the Holy Osean Empire.
Re: State Visit.

Imperial Cousin,

It is with great pleasure that We accept your gracious invitation to a State Visit between our great nations. As offered by your nation, We have fixed the time: the Imperial airliner Grace will depart Constantinopolis Secundus in twenty days, arriving at your capital city approximately a day afterward. Secretary Lasarkis will liaise with your subordinates to arrange the details.

Regards,

Michael VI
Emperor and Lord of New Chalcedon.

(OOC: I wonder where the 'Ottomans' are? They've yet to make an IC appearance.)

OOC: Osea, message some of them so we can get the ottomans to fight.

OOC: I intend to do a post for the Ottomans tomorrow. Hopefully that is what is needed to get some of nations on the Islamic/Arab side to post.

Ooc: I'll be posting the Templar and Stevidian Army's arrival tomorrow.

St. Malleus Cathedral, Stevid

Osea’s message had reached the Chapter House of the Knights Templar in Stevid at the same time as it had with various other orders across the planet but it was only the Templars who were late reacting to it. The Grand Master and High Inquisitor had spent much time debating the circumstances of the Ottoman invasion of Osea between themselves and the Chapter’s inner circle before coming to a decision.
St. Malleus Cathedral stood on the side of the semi-active volcano Malleus, it was gargantuan and dwarfed any other cathedral in the Great Dienstad region and it was rumoured to be the biggest in the world. It made the fabulous cathedral in Milan look like a small garden shed- it was here that the Stevidian Chapter of the Knights Templar were based. The black sky blotted out most of the sun’s ray and a fiery orange haze foretold that dusk was near. However the inner circle knew nothing of this because they were deep underground in the vaults of the Cathedral, part of the complex system of finely decorated catacombs that created a labyrinth corridors that snaked through the mountain. Deep in these vaults lay the Hallowed Crypt of the Fallen where the dead Knights were taken, the Inner Circle’s Lobby and the Holy Vault where lay several artefacts including part of the True Cross and Excalibur. But it was in the lobby where the Templars were discussing the crisis in Osea.

“It’s like our Order hasn’t reacted before.” Grand Master Corbulo XVII stated aloud to the gathered Knights. “While the Steppe Empire dwelled in our mortal realm we sent a huge force to make sure that when the left they would be doing so on a bad note!”

“Agreed!” Replied Brother Captain Iystaan. “This is a matter of faith and the Church should answer Osea’s plea for help.”

This was Captain Iystaan’s first ever appearance in the Inner Circle Lobby, he wasn’t of correct rank or prestige enough to show his face at the regular meetings with the Grand Master and High Inquisitor yet here he was, speaking amongst them and giving his advice. It was obvious to him that the Templar’s were going to war regardless of what transpired in the Lobby room, the decision had already been made or why else would they have asked Iystaan, Brother Captain and C&C of the 4th Battle Company, to attend the audience. It would only be a matter of time before he was out in Osea.


New Constantinople, Osea
A single VT-22 Osprey, or VT-22 Tempest which was the Templar variant, flew low into Constantinople’s air space with its important ‘cargo’ on board and ready to disembark. The Tempest was light grey but had a distinctive splayed red cross on both side of the fuselage signifying the presence of Templars, inside was the command figures of the 4th Templar Battle Company with the commanding officer Brother Captain Iystaan among them.
Below they could see the streets of Constantinople were devoid of civilian life and what people there were sparse and not caught out in the open too long, however the presence of the Templar’s fellow brethren the Teutonic Order could easily be seen. There tanks displayed easily identifiable iconography of the Teutonic Knights and the troops displayed banners all over the city. Behind is helmet and mask Iystaan snarled quietly, he carried a dark streak of mistrust with the Teutonic Order- nothing personal other than traditional rivalry with their religious ally. Each thought their own order was the best and greatest at delivering God’s message through fire and sword, each thought they were God’s own hammer and shield, each thought they were the first line of defence for the Church. But then Iystaan’s scowling turn to a smile as he thought over his past conflicts. He’d been present at the Fall of the Steppe Empire (http://s6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/Stevid/?action=view&current=champion.gif) or at least its Earthly remains and also present in Bardar during what the Templars now dubbed ‘The Great Apostasy’, The 4th Company were also part of the occupation force on Truce Island several years ago- in fact the company had probably seen more action in the past four years than this chapter of the Teutonic Order had seen in it’s early and late modern history. A bold claim to be sure and had no foundations for proof yet but it kept a rare smile on Iystaan’s face enough though no one could see it.

The Palace where the head of the Teutonic Order military branch in Osea and the Osean head of state who delivered the message to all of Christendom, awaited the Templars and so the Tempest set down just outside. The rear door slammed to the ground the Knights wasted no time disembarking their air transport to see the people that had summoned their Holy services. The Templar HQ were in battle armour but wearing a ceremonial tunic that covered the armour plating on their chest (http://s6.photobucket.com/albums/y227/Stevid/?action=view&current=Emp_Chmap1sms.jpg), abdomen and legs which in turn covered the plasti-steel and Kevlar body armour beneath that. The steel was blackened and the body armour beneath it was dark as Hell but the tunic that covered their front, back and legs was all white save the splayed red Cross at the front. There size and bulkiness was imposing but their faces were masked in a helmet that covered the whole of their heads, all part of the complex and high-tech Land Warrior tactical communication and warfare system. Their breathing came across as electronic as their vox-communicators distorted their voice and breathing so unwanted ears could never identify one Knight from another but voice alone. It eliminated a Knight’s individuality in a sense but made them fearful characters, they were taller than most average men and built like bulls- they were soldiers bred for Holy War and nothing else. War was their life and they only fought in God’s divine name.

This imposing bunch strode off the Tempest at a quick marching pace with Iystaan at their head, the reef of thorns around his head and the solid gold iconography on his armoured plating gave away his rank to the Palace guards. The guards saluted in perfect time but the Knights didn’t so much as glance at the guards in acknowledgement let alone return the salute but their lack of manners got them only as far the front door where the guards blocked their path and the hands hovered over their guns. However it was merely a precaution and from that point onwards they were escorted in by the Palace guards so that the Templars may met with the Oseans.

The Osean Emperor was busy with the Grand Master of the Teutonic Order when Iystaan and his collection of commanders were introduced. Iystaan bowed ever so slightly it was barely noticeable but bow more deeply to Grand Master Jungingen when they were introduced- the Teutonic Knights were taking this war extremely seriously if they were sending the Grand Master of their whole Order into the fray, at least they were afraid to show their teeth if that was all they were doing. He smiled behind helmet again but did not remove it as he approached the Emperor. His brethren didn’t move as his heavy boots thudded against the floor. He stopped a foot or so from the Osean Emperor before addressing him.

“My name is Brother Captain Iystaan of the Knights Templar 4th Battle Company sent by Grand Master of the Holy Order of the Knights Templar Corbulo. We are here to aid you against the infidel tide to the East.” His voice was electronic and synthetic like some sort of android or robot and it grilled out of the vox-communicator and echoed through the room no doubt sending a chill down spines of everyone present. “My brethren out in the field are conducting patrol sweeps in friendly territory as we speak while the government of Stevid has kindly allowed us control over the 8th Armoured Division. The Royal Logistical Corps assigned to the 8th Company are constructing a large Firebase approximately 40 miles from the frontline- We don’t waste time.”

He paused. “Forgive me Emperor, I tend not to dally on formalities. We understand these are difficult times for your country and your people. But rest assured, the Templars are here to defend those of sound mind and faith- we were founded on the core principles of defending members of the faith and pilgrims to the Holy sits in the Middle East. Our goals haven’t change so much over the centuries. We are here to aid you in your struggle.”

He glanced at the Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights and approached him before kneeling on one knee and bowing his head before making the Sign of the Cross.
“I admit that I do not care as much for your Order as I do my own, Brother. But I respect your authority in the words of God and military acumen. It is an honour to be in the presence of the Grand Master of the Teutonic Order himself.” Iystaan’s eyebrow twitched furiously as he spat the words with a hint of venom but he meant what he said for Jungingen was a man of God like himself and probably had combat experience to explain his high rank. But Iystaan would only answer to his own Order and not the Teutonic Knights- there was only so much decorum he could handle.

"Rise, you should not bow to me, for I am not your master."

"Not directly Lord, for Christ- the One true God is my only Master. But the leader of such a religious order demands we pay you suitable respect."

Alexius watched the exchange between Captain Iystaan and the Teutonic Grand Master. He had little interest in it however. He knew that each of the two groups would likely be annoyed with the other sides presence, that could be learned from history. But as long as they fought to the best of their ability, and he was confident they would, then there would be no problems. He then replied to Captain Iystaan "It is good to see that you are taking the initiative. We can't afford to waste anytime. I believe we should work on co-ordinating our forces more effectively". He then went silent as he tried to think of a solution. After a moment he again spoke up "I believe that we should try to develop a joint command between our forces. As we will have to work seperately from each other, I also think that each of us should have a attache from each other force to enable us to co-ordinate our forces when we are incapable of meeting up to do it".

.............

In the Capital of the Ottoman Empire, Damascus, Sultan Suleiman III was listening to reports of ships arriving at Osean ports. Then an aide spoke up "Your Majesty, I believe that they are moving trrops into Osea, for the purpose of attacking us. So, we should attack before they are in position to attack us". Suleiman replied "I know. But we are not in position to attack either and we are still building up our supplies which were depleted during our recent campaigns. Also, the arrival of these Crusaders complicates matters. So we will not attack untill we are fully prepared and have sufficient intelligence on the enemy to prepare ourselves. As for the New Chalcedon message....". He thought they are a threat no doubt, as are the Christians, who seek to attempt to try what they have repeatedly failed before. The fight will no doubt be tough, but, Allah willing, we will succeed. "I will write a responce to that later" he finished.

To: Michael VI, Emperor and Lord of New Chalcedon

While there is a history between our people, that is something no one can deny. But it does not mean that we will always be the agressor. Much of the land we have taken from the Oseans contain muslims of Ottoman ethnicity, which have long been persecuted by the Oseans and have been saved by us. Not only that, but we ourseves have long been very tolerent of those with other faiths, including Christians. Having said that, we also desire peace and promise not to attack unless the Oseans committ hostilities against us.

Sincearly,
Sultan Suleiman III,
Sovereign of the House of Osman, Sultan of Sultans,
Khan of Khans,
Commander of the Faithful and Successor of the Prophet of the Lord of the Universe,
Custodian of the Holy Cities of Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem

“Time is of the essence Emperor.” Brother Captain Iystaan replied hastily. “My orders are to drive back the heathen warriors from the east by any means necessary. I can not complete this goal by doing nothing and standing around tables. My initiative is only what you asked for in your message- but thank you for your praise nevertheless.”

It was only until now that Iystaan remembered that he was speaking through his vox comm. helmet and his voice was still synthesised. He removed it briskly and but signalled to the other Templars present not to remove their own, one however did move forward to hold his commander’s own helmet.

“Forgive me, I am accustomed to wearing that thing a lot when not in St. Malleus. About your ideas of the command structure you wish to incorporate into this joint defence of Osea: We concur. I prefer to lead from the front- it is better to die for God than live for yourself unless commanded to otherwise do so. It is also better for my troops’ morale if their commanding officer is in the fray as well. I elect Justicar Octavius, hero of the Bardar Apostasy, to be the Templar’s military attaché to Osea.”

A giant of a Templar strode forward and bowed respectfully. He was heavily decorated no doubt after his valiant defence of Christian values and people in Bardar. Numerous failed attempts on his life in Bardar had made him a well respected figure by either side of the warring factions and a price was on his head in some lines of assassins work. But so far, God had smiled on him and his work. His efforts in Bardar meant he wasn’t promoted but was given several high military honours by the Templars including a bigger estate in the Northern Highlands of the country, and several military honours from the Stevidian government too. His experience in the field was huge and his tactical knowledge and communication skills were second to none, no shock then that Iystaan selected him.

“I’m sure he’ll develop a healthy relationship with all of you. As for continued operations, The 4th Battle Company and 8th Stevidian Armoured Brigade does not intend to sit idle once the firebase in completed. The Stevidian Army is a sledgehammer while the Templar force is a surgical knife- together we will win this war. Already we are drafting plans for a Shock & Awe assault on several occupied towns held by fanatical Islamic groups. Assaults that will be conducted by the Army. The Knights Templar will be going deeper into enemy territory and directly attacking enemy strongholds through airborne assault while Templar Armour ‘kicks in the front door’ as it were.” Iystaan turn to the Teutonic Knights’ Grand Master. “I assume we can rely on the Teutonic Order for support should we require it?”

Alexius replied simply with "I agree and accept your selected attache". While he was paying attention to Captain Iystaan, he was also thinking on the planning details of the battle to come.

OOC: Has anyone PM'd the ottomans?

OOC: Torturous Chamber, I'm the one controling the Ottomans. While the members of the Islamic/Arab side haven't posted, it isn't impossible for us to continue the RP without them as long as no one has any objections to the idea.

OOC: This isn't much, but its slightly better that just bumping the thread.
IC:
Alexius then addressed both men "Our present plan is an attack in the Balkans with naval landings on Anatolia behind the main enemy forces there to surround them. We also intend to launch an attack in the Caucasus starting with airborne assaults to secure the passages through the mountains in the area. The Osean Navy will also be engading the Ottoman Navy to destroy it ot at least make sure it is confined to its ports. It is up to you to decide which part you will be involved in but you will need to decide quickly".