The date is January 1, 1946

[OOC]

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Delhmar Republic, Cortona, Prime Minister's Residence [1/1/46]

Delhmin Prime Minister Jerrick Armedsun read his morning paper and drank a bloody mary. Last night's festivities had not been kind to him. New Years was one of the few times the Delhmin Prime Minister could celebrate. A stack of security briefings detailing the situation up north sat on his desk unread, accompanied by reports and forecasts from other executive departments.

They could wait until after lunch. The Prime Minister had a lot on his mind already. This year was an election year. Hopefully it would himself who was elected to a second term. Jerrick had the favor of the majority Delhmar National Party. He simply had to keep it. During his term as PM the country had been relatively peaceful and the economy had been stable. The only discontent came from the Organization for Northern Freedom in the mountainous northern areas of the republic. They were nothing more than insurgents who hated the Republic to him.

Delhmar Republic, Cortona, Section 4 HQ [1/1/46]

Across town from the Prime Minister, a less peaceful scene was unfolding. Two Section 4 agents looked over a shirtless, bloodied man in a dimly lit room. He sat handcuffed to a bare wooden chair. One of the agents carried a folded length of rubber hose and stood directly over the man. The other stood by the door and simply watched.

"So, I'm going to ask you this again. Who is Crown?" asked the agent holding the rubber hose.

"I don't know" replied the man weakly. Thwack! The agent struck him hard across the chest, leaving another dark bruise.

"Bullshit, you know. So I am going to ask you again..." The agent reared his hand back

"He's ONF, good enough?" said the man, suddenly sounding defiant.

"Scrum." Growled the agent. He brought the rubber hose against the man's chest again, drawing blood where the metal ends cut into the man. "We'll be back when you want to talk." he said. Him and his partner left the room.

January 1st 1946 - Somewhere in the New Illaryan desert

The moving tracks of the armored vehicles catapults the sand in the air of the New Illaryan desert. It might be winter and cold but the place is still dry as hell. Commander MacKinly of Alpha company expresses his discontent about the desert sand. There's no way to approach any position without being noticed. The dust clouds of the APC's gives away everything. Your position, the direction you're driving. Just one spotter on a hill top can tell every move the Illaryan military makes in the desert terrain. The conflict might be minor in comparison to the Fortunan revolt but none the less 523 soldiers have died in action in the last 3 years in these desert.

"Keep your eyes open for those commie rats. They can be anywhere ready to ambush us. Those cunning bastards!" Shouts commander Mackinly to his men. Before anyone could even answer a loud explosion drew everybody's attention. The front vehicle had hit an improvised explosive device. The heavy explosion lifted the Defender Mark II IFV 1 meter into the air and let in land on its side. Everybody could see that the explosion had ripped open the bottom of the vehicle, the chances that the men inside where alive are slim.

The sound of mortar and machinegun fire filled the air. The dust of the exploision was hardly settled or guerrilla's of the TRLA engaged the men of Alpha company. "Ambush, Ambush! Get all vehicles into a defensive circle formation!" Yelled the commander through his radio. Soon the 4 remaining Defenders started to move and position themselves. Soon the soldiers disembarked in order to engage the communist fighters but then everything was silent again. The rats had left as quickly as they came. Commander Mackinly counted his losses. 6 dead soldiers and another 7 wounded. Not to mention another expensive vehicle ready for the scrap yard. "Damn those commie bastards and their IED's" he cursed out loud.

January 1st 1946 - Illarya City - Government Hall

The government and members of the parliament rushed towards their designated seats. They have been summoned for an emergency meeting regarding the increase of violence in New Illarya. Prime Minister Mycroft Stone looked how the Parliament members all took their seats. Prior to this meeting the war counsel of the government had discussed the situation in the colony. Resent cross-border scouting missions and infiltrations by spies had made clear that The United Socialist States of Serfiuan was actively supporting the TRLA terrorist. Multiple training camps have been discovered over the past few weeks and also factories for IED's have been found among the cities of the USSS. Analysts of the Illaryan intelligence Agency determined that the TLRA would have a hard time to survive without support from the USSS. Appropriate action was needed according to his cabinet.

When all parliament members had finely taken their seats the Prime Minister took the word. "Greetings members of the House of Commons. You've all been summoned here regarding recent event in New Illarya. Our intelligence Agency has determined that The United Socialist States of Serfiuan is actively supporting the TLRA. We've discovered multiple secret trainingcamps and arms factories within the borders of the USSS. Without appropriate action. The USSS and TLRA will continue to destabilize the our colony and continue to be a treat towards both civilians and military lives. The government asks for a mandate that enables us to use limited military force against the TLRA training camps and when necessary, the military forces of the USSS."

For a moment there was a dead silence within the House of Commons. It was the first time in 60 years that the government asked permission to use military force against another nation. The leader of the nationalist party Pride of Illarya stood up from his seat and took the word. "Considering the situation action is needed. But not of limited force. We of Pride of Illarya believe we should not succumb to communist hostilities and strike back with full force! Only by taking true action and defeating the communists we can shake of the disgrace our military suffered in Fortuna-Aiowan. Limited action against communist is not enough. Only by changing the regime in the USSS to a friendly one we can secure our borders."

Next to speak was the leader of the Socialist Union. "This is outrageous! Using the pretext of terrorism to invade a neutral country is just an horrifying chain of thought. Civilized people should always use diplomacy to solve their conflicts. Going to war with the USSS is certainly not an option for my party. Maybe we should respect the wishes of the people and create an independent New Illarya." Even before the socialist leader could finish his argument he was interrupted by the nationalist who accused him of committing high treason against the crown.

The debate ran for the entire day and night. The other parties first inquired what this limited campaign would be. Minister of the Army, Marshall Eric Rannerston explained that there would be no invasion of the USSS and that it was not Illarya's goal to violate the sovereignty of the United Socialist States of Serfiuan. There would only a limited air campaign against the training camps and air defense. The civilian population would be spared. No soldier would cross the border with the exception of special forces.

For many more hours the members of Parliament discussed the topic of a possible military campaign against the USSS. With the Fortuna-Aiowan disaster still fresh in mind, even the parties that formed the government where reluctant to sign the proposed intervention act. At 06:00 hours there was finely an agreement on how to deal with the situation. The kingdom of Illarya will send an ultimatum to the United Socialist States of Serfiuan stating;

The United Socialist States of Serfiuan must immediately cease all support military and economic to the TLRA terrorist, dismantle all TLRA training facilities and disarm all TLRA members within the countries border within 14 days. If the USSS fails to comply with all the demands The Kingdom of Illarya will consider the USSS support to the TLRA as an violation of the sovereignty of The Kingdom. In that case The Kingdom of Illarya will be forced to use military force in order to protect her citizens against state sponsored terrorists.

Next to the ultimatum both houses agreed on increasing the military presence within the colony and holding a large naval exercise near the territorial waters of the USSS.

Jan 2nd 1946 - Illaryan Tribune (newspaper)

Government sends ultimatum to USSS!
Government accuses The United Socialist States of Serfiuan of supporting TLRA terrorist in New Illarya. The kingdom threatens with military intervention if the USSS does not cease their support immediately!

More troops are send to New Illarya - The kingdom flexes its muscles!
Minister of the Army, Marshall Eric Rannerston announces that more troops are being send to New Illarya. The 1st Special Forces division, 3th Air Assault division and 5th Marine division embark from Lorin military port today. They are expected to arrive in the colony in 7 days. Also the 5th armored division and the 6th mechanized division are ordered to prepare for the same journey. The Marshall says that both divisions can be ready for departure in 5-6 days. In two weeks total another 80.000 of our boys will be stationed in the sands of New Illarya.

Large naval exercise announced
The colonial fleet and the Ceres Sea fleet will take part in a large naval exercise near the territorial waters of the United Socialist states of Serfiuan. Military spokesmen say that it is just another exercise in order to keep our navy sharp. There is no doubt amoung analyst that the sole purpouse of this exercise is to put pressure on the USSS. The exercise is planned to be held in 7 days.

The Vaal Abrakanazzar II's council chamber was circled by the royal guard on its perimeter, each one observing the exchange between the 3 most powerful men in the sultanate. The guards were dressed in turbans that obscured their mouths, leaving only a small slit near the eyes. It was the Windy Season on the Bhuj'eruban archipelago and these gales are known to pick up large plumes of rock and dirt. This was the attire around this time of year, but usually the soldiers would be wearing a light, but durable steel mail, which allowed the skin to breathe in the warm climate, while still providing adequate protection. Vaal Abrakanazzar was politely listening to the Dei, the most powerful clergyminister in the land who is visiting Bhuj'ylon from his usual post at Bhuj'adonia. Across the table to the Dei, sat the Guildmaster, the merchant-king who oversees all trade in the Vaaldom. This man, Sandorz Zigurrato, was rather dismayed with the strict embargo of travel enacted upon the naval traders.

“My Honored Vaal, we MUST petition the Elder Council to close the city gates. Every day foreign beggars, sellswords and concubines pass unharmed through our city gates. These savages must not lay their heathen eyes on our idols of Vaal. The God-king Vaal himself would not allow such peasantry to look upon His face! We shame the gods by keeping our borders open.” Dei Kazarr barked into the King's ear, flinging spittle everywhere. The Dei was pleading, or begging, with the king to force Bhuj'eruba into total defensive isolation.

“Please, for the sake of Vaal, calm down, your Dei. The city is safe for now and we've no enemies. Rather, I'd prefer the united islands of Bhuj'eruba go out into the world a bit more. We should consider allying mother Bhuj'eruba with other great nations, worthy of Vaal's respect and blessing. This strict royal monitoring of the merchant guilds, navy and the harbors is causing distrust in the Bhuj. My people are important to my reign, I wish for them to trust their Vaal. Civil unrest grows in the kingdom daily and our once truly peaceful society feels as though there is a constant blanket of worry hanging over their heads.” the king's soft-spoken, but stern voice did little to force the Dei into submission.

“Nay, Vaal. In fact, we should monitor OTHER nations as well. In addition, our citizens are not in unrest because of a feeling of restriction, rather they are in unrest because we mix our pure lineage with savages. Our needs are met, our people are fed, our religion true, NOW is the time to close shop, your Vaal. The Gods hath blessed our path for Ours is true and you wish to end this era of peace by your inaction? What more need do we have to trade with the barbarians outside our walls? The mountains surround us on all sides not surrounded by sea and we have stationed scouts every 10 miles outside the Gate of Hashemara for 500 terrestrial miles. Had I my way, I would close the Bhuj'karaam harbor as well, but only Sandorz here can propose that legislation.” the irate Dei's voice also showed genuine concern for the state of the nation and the compassion for the people.

“You think to succeed for eternity until Vaal himself raises us up into Paradise by closing our door and hoping nobody ever comes to knock? What say you, Guildmaster?” he addressed the query by shifting his gaze directly to the merchant-king, Sandorz Ziguratto, and Dei Kazarr Hasher knew to be quiet.

“I wish not for my involvement in state affairs outside of trade, my honorable Dei and Vaal. I am but a lowly emissary for the merchants of Bhuj'eruba. My Vaal, I must take my leave and sail back to Bhuj'karaam. Please, I must have an answer from you. Where are our merchant ships to sail today? It is the first of the month, we must cast off the trade vessels."

"You shall proceed with the plan as follows: send 3 vessels out to sea....

1 merchant-ship will be sent to across the Arctic Ring, to the far West and then follow the continent Southwards until they find the port of Greater Samora.
The 2nd merchant-ship will also sail West and South, but will not cross the Arctic Ring. This vessel will sail towards the Kingdom of Illayra and its colonies.
The 3rd trade vessel will follow the continent directly Southwards, past the Orkavian Ocean, until you hit the Grand Empire of Nihon."

"Very well, your greatness." the merchant-king cracked a sly smile, took a bow and exit the council chamber. Sandorz began to head towards the docks, where he would cast off the 3 largest trade ships in Bhuj'eruba: the Philinta, Nenna and Hashemara."





Elsewhere in the city, right outside the Manor, the city stirred into life as it did every morning. Traders of fabrics, semiprecious stones and goat dairy peddled their wares in the city, each exchanging negotiated amounts of product. Economic/trading squabbles constituted the majority of the crime in Bhuj'eruba; due to the barter system, pricing is far more subjective and on occasion, some feel they've been ripped off if the worth of the product they receive does not satisfy thoroughly. However, such squabbles are likely to end in some simple physical altercation, so the city watch does its best to mediate and work out trade disagreements through the courts. The majority of cases are settled out of court.

A teenage boy in a simple, silk vest climbs atop a stone-and-silk pavilion, overlooking the bustling town square. A monkey with a small hat sat atop his shoulder, and peered into the bazaar ocean of shops that are propped up here daily. The teenage boy seemingly spots his target and dives downwards into the town square, jumping from building, to wooden crate, to building, and to wooden crate again, before finally setting foot on the ground. He followed his nose and was led to a rather overweight baker, removing a fresh pan of sourdough breads from a stone kiln, decorated with several fat emeralds. As the baker turned around to remove the second pan from the kiln, the teenage boy walked by casually and snagged a warm loaf of bread.

"What the....STOP THAT BOY! THIEF!"

The monkey atop the adolescent's screeched and howled into the boy's ear, that was his signal to take off. Clutching the oversized loaf of bread, he disappeared into a crowd, knocking over a herd of Hashemara priestesses along the way. They hardly react and simply got up and began walking away, but not before blessing the ground onto which they fell. By now, two of the city guard began chasing after the adolescent male, but within seconds, lost him in between the clogged masses of consumers.

"I'll remember that purple vest." grinding his teeth, one of the turbaned guards wondered why this hoodlum felt it necessary to steal a loaf of bread, when the royal government provides each citizen with grain, water and shelter.

January 1st, 1946
Schickunstein, Capital of the Empire of Karlsland

Light snow fell on the parade grounds below Wolk Vankompf the III as he surveyed the graduates of the Strike Hexe Academy. They all stood straight and proud in their dress uniform(see NS if interested), seeming not budging an inch. Their polished insignias and well pressed uniforms were wore proudly by the students that dawned them. Four seven grueling years of training, classes, and mock combat, they have finally completed their first step in becoming a true member of the Strike Hexe branch. For they never are considered full members, until they have survived their first military campaign. None the less, the Chancellor could not help but feel proud of all these young women and men for becoming such strong soldiers. He sighed and began to speak.

"Today, I speak to you, not as your Chancellor, not as your Leader, but as a fellow comrade in arms! I too once stood among your ranks during the days my great father repelled the cruel invaders of the east and forged our new territories in the east. And I become a full member when I lead my own squad to many victories, but suffered plenty of losses as well. War is a sobering experience for the strong like you and eye. Unlike many, we think clearer, the world suddenly makes sense, all in a fraction of a second when step onto that front line. But when you do take those first steps and later lead our great nation's forces in your campaign, I want all of you to think on this moment and what I am about to say, for this is where you shall draw your true strength for the nation! Fight not for the government! Fight not for your generals, your ideals, your beliefs, or even your Chancellor. Fight for your homeland! Fight for your family! And most of all fight for the very country from which you came from! Go forth! Bring glory and honor for The Empire of Karlsland! Salute!"

Immediately, both the soldiers and the Chancellor turned 45 degrees sharply, facing the large waving flag blowing in the cold wind over the parade ground. There right arm crossed their chest while the left remained still with the right hand in a closed fist resting upon their heart. At that moment, The Empire of Karlsland's national anthem began to play from the band present there.

Hours later, the Chancellor quietly sat in his office in the Governmental Citadel and began to read through some paperwork. Suddenly there was a knock on the door, though the Chancellor seemed not to be too surprised.

"Come in Severfer General Luaft." he casually said, slowly looking up from his paperwork. The door opened to reveal a man to be in his late 50s with brownish grey hair and icy blue eyes. He quickly saluted, then approached the Chancellor's desk.

"My Chancellor, I've just recieved a report from Admiral Konfer. The 1st Expeditionary Force is arriving at the Fortuna-Anoiwan islands after their long journey. The 2nd Expeditionary Force is also beginning to near the waters around the Sultanate of Bhuj'eruba. If both missions are a success, we will have quite the edge both militarily and economically. "

The Chancellor simply nodded in agreement. "Good, good. I do hope they are successful."

Meanwhile, in Fortuna-Anoiwan waters near the capital island of Ahta-matoi

A massive Karlsland Class ship steamed towards the the harbor of the capital. It was only accompanied by one single Farstander Class ship. The rest of the much larger task force had remained ten miles behind. This was both showing great force, but one that does not intend any hostility. Admiral Konfer watched as the island's shore came into view from the bridge, arms cross behind his back. His mission was simple:
Establish diplomatic relationship with the island nation of Fortuna-Anoiwan and negotiate an agreement that allows both the Luffkarvor and the Severfer Macht to establish a presence in the area in order to secure Karlslandic assets. The use of force is authorize if the nation becomes hostile towards the naval task force in anyway.

The Admiral had always been an adventurer of sorts and saw this new and potentially strange land as the source of anther one. He had seen manly places in the world, but had yet to visit the infamous isles that had won their shaky independence. He pondered that at the face of it, they would be hostile, as not to have another oppressor from foreign lands come again, but at the same time, he hopped they would be smart enough to realize how good of a deal the Chancellor had prepared. Either way, his eyes were filled with excitement and anticipation for the upcoming encounter.

_________________

The crowd gathered at the small plaza was cramped and tired of the sweat sliding down their foreheads as the sun lowered its gaze upon them. Yet they endured such discomfort happily, taking into consideration there would be an announcement by the Dictator, celebrating the new year to come and giving blessings to the seafarers and farmers present. The celebration of the New Year had left only a handful of overly loyal subjects to work and the fact that one Fortuna's main products was hard liquor literally halted production on the first week of the year. The Dictator, dressed in his clear white military uniform as he always was for public speeches, stepped outside from the shade of the building into the balcony overlooking the gathered subjects. In the manner of a gesture that has been rehearsed countless times he took off his admiral's hat and waved it gently at the crowds, who responded in kind with a roar of admiration. Most of the crowd was composed by peasants holding to the idealistic image of the Dictator leading them through the developement of the country, of him leading them through the ages ensuring the safety of their families and not fearing another war of agression against them. The Dictator raised his hand and the roar decreased in volume to a point of complete silence. The heat was unbearable, to the point where the only thing heard was the mosquitoes swarming upon the immobile prey. The Dictator started speaking, or shouting gravely, because of the appearent lack of installed loudspeakers in the plaza...

''It is with great joy that I welcome a new era of prosperity and wealth for our land. We have recieved information from our border guards of an oncoming trade ship coming from a distant land to engage in trade with our people; they too will recognize that the Fortunan people are working towards prosperity, they too will see the quality of our ancient craftmanship. They say that they come from a Sultanate far in the northern lands and they plea to us for products they do not have in such a different enviroment. We will ensure no man will change our identity but sure enough, they will see the might that we have so bravely kept and defended like a pearl buried in the depths of the sea! The great God Brothers have granted us this land to make it flourish and we will not give up until it is recognized as it so rightly deserves! Now, the blessing that will ensure that our endeavours find their success, that our people perish not in hunger on the throes of its fatherland but that they are granted the gifts as the Sons of the God Brothers!''

The crowd drowned out the sound of the last few sentences the Dictator had pronounced. They had barely listened to the underlying ideas of an eventual opening of the islands and just saw a hero in a glistening white suit, like a guiding light in the middle of a rough storm. The dictator gazed far between the mountains that, like a window frame or a painting, gave an excellent view of the bay of Ahta-matoi from the Presidential Palace. A grind was drawn on his lips and his finger pointed towards the alien great ship, followed by a smaller one. Although both models were unknown to him and he had only been informed of one vessel, he quickly exclaimed toe the exhalted crowd in a grandiose manner. ''Look, the wealth that awaits our nation has come to us! The God Brothers have no let us down this time, let us not disappoint them because of the wasted opportunities they have so generously granted us in the form of a few curious that have set sail into a territory destined to greatness!'' A man touched the leader on the shoulder and beckoned him back into the shade of the Presidential Palace. The dictator quickly assesed that the crowd had changed from admiration of his presence to mild curiosity and, to a certain degree, fear of the ships he had so joyously announced arriving. ''I hope this is important.'' The man meekly handed a piece of paper to the Dictator and backed off out of the office, like a dog fleeing with its between its legs. The content of the document very quickly made the face of the Dictator lose color.

This wasn't a trade ship.

It was a treaty, not too different from the one the Illaryan had previously presented upon their arrival only this time it was a messenger of the people that called themselves Emperors of Karlsland. The Dictator had heard of the Empire, a great military machine, a power unmatched in the north that had quickly expanded to the east of their territories, a power to be reckoned with. But these were only mere rumours of a far away land that would probably not be seen very soon by the eyes of the Fortunan people. The Dictator quickly stood up from his chair, drawing several battleplans to retake the capital if the need arised; they also needed to repel a possible, almost sure, assault from the north. As quickly as he opened the doors, he ordered the two men standing in the hallway, whose faces he quickly recognized as old veterans from the independence war, to have the ships of Kolae-nou aim their main batteries at the ship on Ahta-matoi's shores yet not to fire until they have initiated hostilties. A war against a war machine had to be avoided at all costs. He then told the second man to inform the air force, scout the area, sweep it, scout it again and keep constant patrols of bombers flying on the northern border. He himself took a car down the bumpy, damaged roads of the capital towards the bay, followed by a garrison of soldiers. The people previously crowded at the plaza now formed a procession toward the large ship stranded dangerously close to the seat of government.

''COULD SOMEONE ****ing TELL ME HOW THEY GOT PAST THE BORDER PATROL AND NAVAL BASES?! OR ARE YOU ALL TOO HUNGOVER?!''

Silence responded.



The Dictator swiftly drove through the capital and into the ship, making sure to get ahead of the shambling citizens on their way to the bay. He defiantly stood in front of the massive monster of a warship, it resembled a human staring down a building. The sweat on his palms increased, not due to fear, but to heat. He boarded the ship, with two guards by his side, he igored the pleasantries that come with a normal diplomatic exchange, signaling to the guards who couldn't understand his words, to take him to their superior. And so they did. The Admiral in front of him was taller than most of the men he had seen in his life, either as friends or enemies, to any man, the signs of power he displayed would be an intimidating thing to gaze upon but the medals were not ones that the Dictator admired, for he knew that he held the home advantage on the ship of the enemy. The dictator wordlessly recieved from the hands of one of his soldiers a book titled ''History of Fortuna-Anoiwan'' and set it on the table in front of the Admiral, open on page 61, approximately the half of the book that was mainly used as a propaganda to inspire patriotism, was a copy of the treaty that the Illaryan had signed with the natives and that served as the basis for the subsequent genocide of the Fortunan people. The words after the treaty well represented what speech could not. ''The foolish men who with hopes of increasing their own status shook hands with the Illaryan opressors recieved the punishment that their own Fortunan bretheren could not deliver. The loss of life and independence with the excuse of the law was aberrant and it later sparked a righteous revolution. We as Fortunan people, who defiantly stood up to foreign agressor will learn from our naviete. Our destiny is ours to decide.'' ''This encapsulates what we have gone through, Admiral. I am willing to negotiate and escort you out of what should be an independent territory. Trade is not out of the question, even now at this very moment I am opening new lines of cargo ships but these terms are not appropriate. You and I both know military presence in the archipielago compromises Fortunan sovereignty and the government has a right to retaliate if unauthorized troops move intro their territory. I am giving you temporary authorization right now, Admiral. You are surrounded.'' The Dictator took off his hat; to the artificial light inside the ship, the bright white uniform now looked tattered and stained, the proof of the struggles that it had passed through and the resistance to bend without a fight it represented; but also the decay of the Dictator's endurance and the status of the nation as a whole.

The soldier behind him tapped his shoulder and passed him a paper once again. The Dictator sighed and once again, the contents of the paper did not hold good news. Yet the color didn't drain from his face, for in front of the adversary, fear must not be shown. In bright red letters, the message sent and signed by the leader of the Fortuna-Anoiwan People's Army, Poluke Amanha said:

''The foreign ship that you have so praised has been seized in the name of the proletariat and the breaking of the chains held by your bourgeois dogs.''

Of course.

The Dictator looked behind him and whispered to the soldier: ''Contact Poluke, find a way to free a hostage, no matter what. After that, name an emissary and send him and the freed hostage as a guide to the Sultanate. We need to assure them this wasn't the nation's fault.'' He held his breath for a second. ''And if this isn't done within an hour, you'll be executed.'' The soldier ran off before the Dictator could turn his head back to the Admiral. It was done so. And the day's trip to the Sultanate would mean a tense standstill for the hostages inside the ship until urgent diplomatic relations could be set.

''For a great year to come.'' The Dictator thought to himself.

January 1st, 1946 - 6:20 AM
Voldricht States, Neutral Territory, Prospera City, Grand Courthouse

The festivities of the New Year did little to calm the tempers of the council. Shouting and the pounding of fist resonated through the halls of the Grand Courthouse. Secretaries and servants treaded lightly through the halls, fearing the inevitable moment when the councilors would agree to adjourn, unleashing their remaining fury on the staff of the courthouse. Above the others, the voices of Councilors Ieken and Verkka boomed in the meeting hall.

"The Homeland is our first priority Hanz! Our nation is sick, and it is up to us to heal it. Our forebears grew weak in the twilight of their rule, leaving the resulting rot for us to clean."

Hanz scoffed at Adalrich's gilded nobility.

"True Plebeian virtue. You simply want those of us with formidable foreign holdings to withdraw so that the Plebeian local market flourishes."

"Your paranoia harms the entire nation Hanz. I am merely looking out for the best interests of the people."

"And which people would that be? Hmmm? The gutter filth you call a population hardly have the best intentions for those who work for a living."

"The people of the Collective form the backbone of the Homeland's workforce and the bulk of our defensive soldiers. That 'gutter filth' is the reason your loot hoarding gorgers are able to live in private villas on the north coast."

"Are you seriously implying that those mongrels deserve equal treatment? My father would never have-"

Counsilor Lexai rose slowly from her seat, sneering at the bickering men before her. Adalrich and Hanz stopped abruptly when they witnessed her authoritarian figure ascend above them. She removed her glasses, setting them on her desk with a menacing click that echoed in the high walled chamber. Her demeanor demanded respect and commanded obedience, even the defiant and fractured members of the Council respected Lexai, the undisputed leader of the Voldricht Council. Venom stained her words, Hanz and Adalrich cringed with every sentence, feeling the bite of her condescension.

"Children. Contrary to what you may believe, we do have a country to run, and running a country is more than insulting each other's constituents. Now, stay silent and allow me to inform you of the quickly approaching train of events that threatens to derail our nation, which you surely overlooked in your vendetta against one another!"

Eliessa smiled, always happy to ride on the coat tails of Antara. She nodded, listening silently to her elder's message.

"Karlsland. Late last night, while all of you were indulging in the celebrations of the New Year, one of our long range patrols reported ships bearing the colors of Karlsland entering the waters north of Fortuna-Anoiwan. We don't know what the fleet is doing there, but it cannot bode well for the autonomy of the Voldricht States, nor for our trade with Fortuna-Anoiwan. We poured millions into the revolution in those islands and we cannot allow those barbarians to muscle us out of the Fortuna-Anoiwan islands."

Hanz glanced to Adalrich, an unspoken truce forming between the two as they found a new target for their animosity. Adalrich tapped his fingers against his desk.

"It could take an entire day for a significant detachment of ships to arrive in the isles, there's no way we could prevent the Karlsandic ships from reaching Fortuna-Anoiwan."

Hanz shook his head.

"We don't need to prevent them from entering the isles, we just need to stop them from establishing a presence so close to the Homeland."

Eliessa quickly became dissatisfied with the direction of the coversation.

"Counselor Lexai, you can't be suggesting that we exert military pressure on Karlsland. Why attempt to influence the direction of foreign politics? Let the cards fall as they will. Should Karlsland insert themselves into the isles we will simply deal with them instead of the islanders."

Antara grinned.

"Sweet, naive girl. Trade with Karlsland would barely be profitable. Their state economy and heavy handed regulations would push our corporate interests out of the isles in favor of national interests. We've also made a fortune on playing the factions of Fortuna-Anoiwan against each other. Karlsland would simply place the People's Army in power, you know this, try not to display your ignorance."

Eliessa withdrew, the young queen thoroughly shamed by Antara. Councilor Lexai continued.

"Now, back to business. I've diverted several of our patrol groups in the area to the island of Ahta-Matoi. Our forces will be outnumbered by Severfer Macht ships, but hopefully they can deter any hostile activity long enough for our primary fleet to arrive and grant us superior leverage."

Adalrich leered at Antara.

"You're assuming the rest of us agree with such an application of force."

"Do you not?"

He paused.

"Under the circumstances, i believe that we must take the necessary measures to prevent the Empire of Karlsland from influencing our neighbors."

"Just as i thought. Counselor Verkka, do you agree?"

He nodded.

"I will give the order for VSF ships to be attached to the task force."

Antara looked to Eliessa, the queen spoke her grudging assent.

"Syvin ships will be present, I concede."

Adalrich leaned forward, resting his elbows on his desk.

"You said you already dispatched a small detachment of ships. What exactly is our vanguard composed of?"

Antara leaned back.

"Patrol groups Kaist and Ambergard were within reaction range. They linked early this morning and are heading for Ahta-Matoi. The combined force rests at two Messer class submarines, three Targe class destroyers, one Arbalest long range carrier, and a Fehmer light cruiser."

"And the opposition?"

"Intelligence was hazy. One Karlsland class was noted, the rest was a combination of Stadt and Farstander class. Our scouts were unsure of the exact numbers, but place the total force around twenty ships."

Adalrich coughed.

"Twenty ships? From Karlsland? And you're matching seven light ships from two patrol groups against them?"

Hanz scratched his chin.

"We aren't looking to have them engage Adalrich, they're a deterrent, a wolf before the bear, drawing its attention from the pack."

"It doesn't sit well with me, we should have them hold back until the fleet arrives."

Antara exhaled sharply.

"Councilor Ieken, if we allow the Karlslandic ships to proceed into Fortuna-Anoiwan unmolested then they may finish their work before the main fleet can arrive. It is best to press Karlsland before they realize they have the advantage. If our luck holds then they will be too consumed with relaying the potential threat to their leaders. All the patrol group needs to do is delay Karlsland until we gain the upper hand."

Adalrich withdrew.

"So be it. Issue the order to intercept the Karlslandic ships, Plebeian naval units will accompany the battle group."

Antara smiled.

"Excellent. Now, on to the matter of the threatened embargo on Voldricht-made goods in the USSS....."

*****************

January 1st, 1946 - 9:10 AM
Ceres Sea, Fortuna-Anoiwan Island Chain, Northwest of Ahta-Matoi

The cool air chilled Captain Daina's nostrils. She took a deep breath of the refreshing air, salt mist blowing up over the bow of her cruiser, the VSF Antioch. Her command had been hard earned, with no major military conflicts chances to prove oneself were few and far between. That ended today, as the highest ranking officer among the ship commanders that composed the Broken Tower task force she was placed in command of the interception mission in the Fortuna-Anoiwan islands. Her mission was interference and harassment, she was to avoid physical force as long as possible, but do everything in her power to throw a wrench in whatever the Karlslandic forces were planning. She had already set her plan in motion. The Dentha, the carrier under her command, would deploy its fighters in waves, making regular runs on the outer edge of the Karlslandic vanguard, creating an illusion more air power than the Voldricht forces possessed while gaining more accurate intelligence on the Karlslandic force. This would make the presence of Voldricht forces known without revealing their inferior numbers and weight class. The bulk of the Voldricht ships remained anchored out of sight off the northwestern coast of Ahta-Matoi, poised to intervene should Karlsland make an aggressive move towards the island. Voldricht agents embedded in the populace of Ahta-Matoi would then make covert contact with the local government, informing them of a somewhat inflated Voldricht presence and their willingness to intervene should Anoiwanian independence be threatened. Daina hoped that this could be used by the locals to strengthen their position and resist any political pressure applied by Karlsland. Patience and deception would be required in order to hold out long enough for the main fleet to arrive. Daina just hoped that the locals would support the Voldricht over Karlsland.

_________________
http://www.youtube.com/user/RacoonJones

I've posted a new Brothers, a Tale of Two Sons video for anyone interested.

Silence was the fine thread that held together the room when the dictator finished his statement to the Admiral. Seconds turned to minutes on the Dictator's head as he listened some faint footsteps walk down the corridor outside of the cabin. His shoulder was touched once again; a feeling of dread took him over. Third time of the day the same occurence had happened and it never meant an improving situation. He looked over his shoulder to the face of the man who had been assigned the task of moving the air units and scouting for potential threats. The Dictator looked at the Admiral and with the tact bestowed upon statesmen, he excused himself out of the cabin. The current commander of the air force informed the Dictator of the ships stationed outside the borders; the flag corresponded to the one of the Empire of Karlsland. They were standing upon the harbringer of death and its army stood outside the borders of the nation, ready to engage in an offensive. The Dictator sighed; it could be worse. It could always be worse. And so the situation became worse, as the third document of the day was passed to the Dictator, once again signed by the stamp of a foreign power.

The Voldritch States were standing ready for an offensive against the Karlsland ships, the message reeked of sympathy for the independence of the Fortunan, which they themselves had breached by once again entering troops into their territory without any kind of warning. The diplomatic conflict had taken a turn for a multialteral crisis and Fortuna-Ainowan was stuck between two swordsmen, each one sharpening their weapons to decide who would be the strongest. The Dictator sat on the floor, to the surprise of the Karlsland crewmen and his own few companions aboard the vessel. This will do for now.

The Dictator considered his possibilities. Open combat would compromise the inhabitants of the islands and there would be no gurantee of a victory and if there was one, Fortunan waters would become an open battleground for the conflict that would wash over. Rejecting the help of the Voldritch would only turn them openly hostile and a capital completely surrounded by hostile fire would collapse in a matter of hours. No reaction would simply mean the Voldritch could do as they wished and bending his arm in the eyes of the Admiral inside the room was not an option. Perhaps...

The Dictator motioned to the Commander of the Air Force to hand him pen and paper.

Captain Daina,

We greatly appreciate the risks your nation is taking to ensure our independence and role upon the world. At this very moment, we feel threatened but this by no means should turn into a situation where a single shell is fired and a life is lost. The relations between our two countries express cooperation for an equal partnership that encourages development of a sovereign nation. As such, I ask you that as an ally of the Fortunan people, you respect the order we hold in our territory and cooperate in ensuring its prolongation.

The ships you hold are a tool of war if used for their purpose but peace can be held through power; intimidation is the greatest strength you can hold against an enemy that outnumbers you. I ask of you to send your flagship to the bay of Ahta-matoi, in full view of the Karlsland ship that at the moment encounters itself in our shores. I understand that this may compromise any tactical advantage we have but I assure you that the Fortunan navy is a few kilometers away, standing ready in case of battle. You will not be alone if things take a hostile turn. This is done in order to show the Empire of Karlsland that a battle against our two nations in this day, will result in a sure loss. NO LIFE HAS TO BE LOST.

I also would like to remind you that you did not consult us for the entrance of your ships upon our territory or the monitoring you must have made to mobilize your ships onto our shores with such speed. I will not ask of you the reasons you have so closely watched OUR borders, I'll just assume it's out of good will. We appreciate that you are willing to defend the independence of a fellow nation but this is a breach that usually would not be accepted. This is an exception. I want you to imagine an army getting past your defenses and not standing at the gates of your city, but INSIDE of it. Our security has been compromised and I do not want a battleground that will surely cost the most on the Fortunan side. Next time, do not act on your own. We are fellows; let's treat each other as such.

The Dictator sighed and handed over the message to the Comamnder of the Airforce to be delivered to the Captain of the Voldritch ships. The man ran out of the ship and made his way to the northwest of Ahta-matoi, knowing the danger the nation faced. The Dictator leaned back on the wall, took a long breath and stood up once again, entering the cabin of the Admiral.

December 25th 1945 - High in the sky above the Ceres Sea near Ilta

Captain Ian Walker looked out of the cockpit window of his B-1 medium bomber. Earlier today he and his crew had left Ilta Airbase on a regular maritime patrol mission. It was a regular practice to monitor all the ships that would enter the Ceres Sea from the Karsland Strait. The mission was to scout the entrance area for any irregular activity and report any presence and maneuvers of foreign navies. Most of the Ceres Sea is made up of international waters but none the less The Kingdom of Illarya considers the sea as her sphere of influence. Any Foreign military vessel that would enter the Ceres Sea could count on a lot of attention from both the Illaryan navy and airforce.

It was not long before the onboard radar picked up an unusual large convoy of ships. It was not uncommon to see multiple dots on the radar but the close formation indicated a military convoy. Private Mike Mikkelson shouted towards the captain "Unusual convoy formation spotted! Coordinates 6-0-5. Possibly 12 ships or more!" For a moment the captain was a bit surprised. Such a convoy was highly irregular. He steered his plane towards the coordinates and soon made visual contact with the Karlslandic taskforce. "This is Captain Walker of B-1 785. Naval detachment entering Ceres Sea spotted over" He flew his plane over the taskforce to make a number of photographs before returning to home base.

As the news reached Ilta high command the naval control protocol was initiated and the military high command of was notified of the presence of the Karlslandic taskforce. Immediately a submarine was ordered to intercept and stalk the taskforce. Reporting all the moves of the fleet from Karlsland back to high command. The following morning the minister of defense briefed the government on the presence of the taskforce from Karlsland in the Ceres Sea. For the rest of their journey, the taskforce would have company of a Illaryan Sea Lion class submarine tailing them in the distance.

January 2nd - Illarya City - Government Hall.

Prime Minister Mycroft Stone and minister of Foreign Affairs Sylvester Ludington left the Lords hall as last persons after the gruesome 18 hour debate regarding the situation in New Illarya. The course of action for one problem had been planned but before both government officials could enjoy their well deserved rest a civil servant of the ministry of the army came rushing to both men. "I've news regarding the Karlsland naval taskforce sailing at the Ceres Sea your Excellency. The taskforce has entered the territorial waters of Fortuna-Aiowan." For a moment the Prime Minister looked surprised but soon realized the danger. The Karlsland Empire might want to use the Archipelago as a base of naval and air force operations. A stronghold well within striking distance the the vital Illaryan oil route. A permanent military presence could pose a serious thread towards the kingdoms interests. The civil servant continued to speak. "That is not all sir. Our naval patrol has spotted a small Valdricht States naval detachment changing their course to the archipelago"

The Prime Minister sighed. 10 years ago the Illaryan military suffered their greatest disgrace in recent history at the hand of farmers and planters. Now international tensions will draw the kingdoms attention once again towards that cursed place. The prime minister signaled his secretary. "Schedule meetings for today with the ambassador of Karlsland and a meeting between Sylvester Ludington and the ambassador of the Valdricht States. I want to know what is going on and demand from both countries an explanation of this show of force. Do not take no for an answer!" With the orders set the secretary rushed off. Also the second day of the new year would be a long one.

January 2nd 1946 - On the highway between Illarya City and Lorin

Minister of Economy Sir Ben Lexinton was enjoying the scenery that unfolded on the side of the large highway connecting the capital with the largest city of the country. The highway had 5 lanes in either direction. Last year the road was widened with another lane for each side. But even with the increased capacity the highway was still rather crowded. This was mosty due to the many trucks that where using the road for transporting goods from and towards the harbor of Lorin. Sir Lexinton was on his way to the harbor to meet up with a merchant party of the distand Sultanate of Bhuj'eruba. The kingdom of Illarya did not held any formal diplomatic relationships with the sultanate and considered the country as a conservative, closed and backward society. Just like many others the minister of economy did not hold the sultanate in high regards. He considered it an overgrown third world country. Nowhere near the might of the highly industrialized Kingdom of Illarya. None the less the government had accepted their request for an audience. Even with the most backward and closed nations could be traded. Illarya had grown powerful to set sail and trade over the fast seas with distant civilizations who offered products that simply could not be produced on the home continent. No matter how lacking a country would be in terms of technological development, there could always be a profit made with the right deal.

After a long trip the ministers driver parked the car near Dock 16-A. The dock where the Bhuj ship would arrive.

Mysander sat in his throne as the Greater Samoran Military Council stood in a half-circle before him. The Councilors were the Vanguard's top political advisers. It all tied into the heavy marriage of theology and military. "The tensions over Fortuna-Anoiwan is sure to heat up. I believe this is the best way to capitalize on the situation regarding Samoran superiority." Mysander announced. "Does anyone have any objections?"

"I say we go to war," Enoch Pemberton said. "Take those islands for ourselves. They may be worthless to us, but nobody would question Samora's superiority after we take down their Dictator and hang him for defying the Vanguard."

"Now, now," Pleasant Merrick interrupted. "Violence does not have to be the answer. I don't want to send any Samoran men into the minefield that are those islands. What if we assassinated the Dictator, and installed a puppet?"

"No, more instability is only more fuel for the violence." Said Lacy Rowbottom. "You boys and your love of death. I say that we offer them a proposal. What if the Dictator converted to The Worship?"

"No foreigners will worship me without forcing them to at swordpoint." Mysander pointed out. "I am a false prophet to the other world leaders. It is a sadness we must accept."

"I'm not saying that they need worship you, Vanguard," Lacy countered. "They only need to worship their own Dictator. What if he became a Quasi-Vanguard?"

"Hmm..." Mysander nodded. "Fascinating. Go on..."

Meanwhile, on the Vanderson Peninsula Port Superior...

The merchant ship of Vaal arrived at a very fortuitous time. None other than Felix Vanderson was in Port Superior at the time the ship went into harbor. Felix was discussing business with Goldy Nora, wife of Micajah, Heir to the Vanguard. Goldy, the daughter of a prominent CEO, had a mind for business herself. When word of the Vaal reached Felix's ears, he told the guard to send whatever envoy up to his offices.

''The foolish men who with hopes of increasing their own status shook hands with the Illaryan opressors recieved the punishment that their own Fortunan bretheren could not deliver. The loss of life and independence with the excuse of the law was aberrant and it later sparked a righteous revolution. We as Fortunan people, who defiantly stood up to foreign agressor will learn from our naviete. Our destiny is ours to decide.'' ''This encapsulates what we have gone through, Admiral. I am willing to negotiate and escort you out of what should be an independent territory. Trade is not out of the question, even now at this very moment I am opening new lines of cargo ships but these terms are not appropriate. You and I both know military presence in the archipielago compromises Fortunan sovereignty and the government has a right to retaliate if unauthorized troops move intro their territory. I am giving you temporary authorization right now, Admiral. You are surrounded.''

The Admiral sighed, seeing the weathered man before him. Not much to his surprise, the leader of the island nation was initially hostile and aggressive to him. Even leaving a little threat at the end. If it had been anyone else, the Dictator would have made one to many mistakes. He stormed aboard a ship without requesting the sacred permission that was the law of the sea, he spoke before the Admiral could even explain himself, then outright threatened him and his men right in front of him. Any other Admiral would have ordered the islands flattened by the massive guns of the ships that awaited command only miles away, but this is why Admiral Konfer was chosen for this assignment. He stepped towards the door and motioned for the dictator to follow. *(For the sake of flow, he follows? Can edit if needed)* They walked along the side of the ship and the Admiral began to speak.

"If I may, sir, before I say anything else, make one thing very clear." He paused and turned towards the Dictator. "I, Fleet Admiral Ron Konfer, have been given both the responsibility and power by the Empire of Karlsland's Chancellor, Wolk Vankompf the III, to be his ears, his eyes, and his mouth. I fully represent the intentions and promises of my nation. So I must make this very clear to you. We have no intention, of any kind, to come here and take away what your people have fought so hard for. We come here to expand our politcal connection to the world and engage in economic activity with the far away nations." he paused for a moment, giving a sad sigh and motioning to the massive gun turrets of the ship as they neared its bow. "This is a Karlsland class, it carriers six mighty 44cm cannons that could hit a raft over twenty six miles away.... A strong, beautiful work of naval engineering for its time, my favorite ship of all Karlslandic war vessels. But we live in a world that is rapidly changing around us with each passing year. We now have flying machines that can reach unbelievable speeds and cause more devastation than any of these six cannons. My home nation now is starting to develop ships purpose built to launch aircraft, ships that fire rockets instead of shells, and this old mighty battleship may see its service soon come to an end, not in the name of glory or battle, but in the name of progress. My point is to you, leader of your great nation, The Empire of Karlsland is slowly turning itself away from the old ways of cannon diplomacy. And like this battleship, the old ways may seem glorious, but are slowly becoming obsolete. Thus my Chancellor has wisely decided that it was time to go out into the world and meet the nations of new. We are here bringing peace and a generous offer to your independent, sovereign nation."

He looked over at the edge of the bow to see some of the sailors and marines had gathered to look at the new foreign lands they had arrived at. The Admiral smiled and motioned to the men. "Do you see these young sailors and marines. The look in their eyes? They are how Karlsland looks upon your nation. Not with eyes of greed, eyes selfish desires and evils. No, they look upon your warm lands with eyes of excitement, new opportunities, and for me personally, adventure. Now, if we may step inside the briefing room here, we may discuss this offer I spoke of."

The group of men ducked into the somewhat cramped briefing room. It was fairly simple, with a long stained oak table and seats along it with a single painting hanging in the back. It showed the battleship firing its cannons in the middle of a rough sea. The small brass plaque below it read "The Battle of the Kaften Straight, 1944" The Dictator sat at one end of the table with a few of his men and the Admiral at the other with a few of his officers. He pulled out a map of the islands and a few pieces of paper along with a sealed letter.

"The Empire of Karlsland wishes to establish an economical and minor military presence in the area. The details of the request include multiple options you may choose from. First is an airfield. Transporting trade goods via aircraft is a fast and safe way of commerce, but our cargo planes have limited range of course. What we ask of you is that we may either buy a plot of land and convert it into an airfield, or, allow us to buy out a section of your already established airfield for our aircraft. It would be around four large size hangars and a barracks for pilots, maintenance, and guard staff to stay in. The guarding force would be of course, a small detachment of military police, most likely around twenty men, and then around sixty to seventy maintenance personnel. We would use the airfield to mainly trade with surrounding nations. We also request that we station a small squadron of fighters to protect the cargo planes. It would only be around four to five fighters and two fighter bombers.

The second part to the request is also essential and carries two options for you. Option one would be that you allow us to establish a small dock or harbor near the airfield we build. Due to our cargo aircraft's range, they will need to be shipped here piece by piece as well as the supplies they will be carrying and supplies for the units stationed there, including parts, fuel, and ammunition. Also for the sake of our cargo vessels, we would also need at least two of our destroyer class ships stationed their as well. The other option is similar to the second option of the airfield, in which you allow us to buy out a space in the harbor for our own ships, as they will need maintenance and as of now, that is a service only Karlslandic naval engineers can provide.


To reaffirm this request, we are not demanding anything nor are we expecting anything for free. We will be paying generous sums of money for the space and the stationed units here can support the local economy by buying supplies such as food or services from local markets. On top of this, Karlsland is offering to trade various exotic and raw goods for items ranging from heavy machinery, to processed oil."

He gave a genuine grin to the Dictator and passed over the map and the documents.

"And if I may speak freely, My men and I are eager to disembark and tour your beautiful islands. They have been at sea for quite some time now and this warmer air gives them much energy. It's a cold winter in my fatherland right now, so this new warm weather is a new experience for many. But tell me" he paused and finally handed over the sealed letter. "Have you ever seen snow?"

Inside the sealed letter was a personal note from the Chancellor of Karlsland. It was a friendly written letter that spoke of similar things the Admiral had said, but near the end, the Chancellor has an invitation to the capital at whatever time the Dictator chooses.

_________________

Sailing his pride and glory, the Nenna merchant-ship, Southwest, the Bhuj'eruban general Aposum Kiln finally reached his destination, lighting up the bleak metallic harbor with gemstones of every shade of blue imaginable. The trade vessel stuck out like a well-decorated thumb in the very functional, but not at all stylish port, however it blended in with the water underneath. The Bhuj'eruban place masonry and architecture as some of the most honorable and sacred professions, the traders upon the ship inevitably surveyed the foreign location as they departed via a steel ramp cushioned against the side of the small vessel.

Some time into the voyage, General Aposum Kiln separated from the Nenna and boarded a Monobatallion, with an assembled 20-man entourage. As the Nenna sailed towards the Kingdom of Illayra, he sailed for one of the colonies of Illayra - Fortuna-Ainowan, primarily for trade, but also to learn more about the civilization. However, General Aposum Kiln recalled a queer conversation he had with Guildmaster Sandorz Zigurrato back on the docking bay of Bhuj'karaam.

"General, I'm entrusting you to this sensitive mission, but I'm no military man. You're the expert on this voyage. Establish trade connections with the colony of Fortuna-Ainowan and observe the colony. We've word from our naval scouts that there is turmoil in the region, these people may pose a threat to Bhuj'eruba. If this insurgency must be quelled, you are to inform me at once. We will have our mail-pelicans surveying the Southwestern Arctic Circle should you need to relay a message. It is possible the cold weather will cause interference with your machinery."

"Don't worry about me, Guildmaster. I've fought against the Heathen Tribes many decades ago, I recognize the importance these graceful birds have for the Sultanate. The Pelicans are both easily tamed and fly fast and reliable."


The shores of Fortuna were now within reach, as the extremely swift, but quaint vessel reached the port. The metal-and-wood of the ship was encrusted with sapphires, blending the ship in with the water around it. Fortuna-Ainowan's harbor was certainly not as grandiose and brimming with pastels as Bhuj'karaam, but it had its own charm. However, it would seem the colony's harbor already had surprise visitors.
"Ay, those are Karlsland Ships. This is most unexpected. A pelican shall be sent to Bhuj'ylon at once. And one more pelican to the Guildmaster." And with that, one of the covert soldiers opened a pelican's beak and inserted a letter in there, tied to the creature's tongue. He thrust both pelicans into the air; the first began flying Northeast, towards Bhuj'eruba and the second bird flew Southwest towards the Kingdom of Illayra, where the Guildmaster's vessel was on a trade mission. Admiral Aposum Kiln's boat docked in the harbor, as several colonists began fastening the small, but bejeweled yacht with hemp rope that the Admiral's men threw overboard.

The ship was pulled closer in and the Admiral descended gracefully to the quay. Off in the distance between mountains much larger than the ones in Bhuj'eruba, he saw a gathering of people, as well as some structures. However, they had nobody but a few dockworkers to greet them at the dock. General Kiln and his men walked towards the crowd, hoping that someone would escort them. What they found instead was a massive metal ship, almost rivaling the Pleasure Barges of Bhuj'eruba. But these ships were uncivilized savage creations, not in the least attractive and certainly no marvel of human construction. The entourage reached the bay and saw the flag of Empire of Karlsland looking rather flat, rather than swaying in the wind, as if Vaal himself had calmed the winds. General Kiln and the 17 remaining merchant-soldiers washed as a sturdy-looking, Voldritch flagship washed up on the bay.

"By Vaal, this is no ordinary trade mission, men. I suspect this is not Fortuna's doing. You three, back to the ship and get ready to sail at once. You are to sail swiftly north, with our sapphire ships and small size, avoiding larger vessels should be no issue for three seasoned Bhuj'eruban traders." Kiln cast off the men and they scurried back to the dock at once and sailed towards Bhuj'eruba, but not before running into a freed hostage and a delegate of the Fortunan people. The 3 soldiers and 2 Fortunan dignitaries set sail towards Mother Bhuj'eruba to report directly to the Abrakanazzar II.



In addition, General Aposum Kiln sent two of his most trusted traders aboard the Voldritch ship to establish intel on the situation.

Sensing trouble, General Aposum Kiln rushed onto the Karlsland vessel, which it seems the Dictator was able to do as well. For an empire with such big cannons, their security was lax, an issue the Bhuj certainly didn't face. The merchant-soldiers unholstered their guns, a blaspheme in the eyes of Vaal, but a necessary evil. They stormed the cabin, and saw the Dictator sitting at a table, seemingly negotiating with the enemy, but still largely in charge of the situation.

"WHAT IN THE NAME OF VAAL IS GOING ON HERE?" General Aposum Kiln's tiny militia in their stealthy, swift, but small ship managed to arrive in the dock unnoticed, as well as rendezvous with the unexpected Voldritch vessel. Aposum had no idea who the unscrupulous looking character across from the Dictator was, but he was determined to find out. General Kiln snapped his fingers, and one of his soldiers removed the satin cloak that obscured his body, and the turban that obscured his face. Another soldier dutifully pulled up a chair and Kiln sat down, reached out his hand to shake the hand of both men, gaudy golden rings weighing his hand down slightly.

"Certainly an empire with your technological prowess is not picking on smaller, more vulnerable nations, Admiral Ron Knofer? As a nation which desires trade with the Fortuna-Ainowan colony, the great Vaaldom of Bhuj'eruba requests you not establish any action in the region which might impede the Motherland's trading. As for you Dictator, we fear we cannot let you make any decisions which may negatively affect your sovereignty. Bhuj'eruba shall mediate between the two parties on this issue. Our interests are mutual, would you two not agree?" General Aposum Kiln sat there with neat posture and expected the captain Daina of the Voldritch ship would be arriving any second now.

"In addition, it would be highly unethical of me not to inform the Kingdom of Illayra that one of their rightful colonies is making trade agreements which may directly endanger the Kingdom. Dictator of Fortuna-Ainowan, I must urge you reconsider for such "invitations" may not be in your best interest in the long-run. Do you wish for these foreign ships to turn your lush, green and preserved nation into a docking bay? Certainly you value your colony more than to prostitute it as a military base?" the General was crude, but sharply honest and did not mince words.





The largest and by far most ornate vessel, the Hashemara, saw Greater Samora in the distance.
The trade vessel with its massive bow hardly fit into the harbor, but after some skillful maneuvering, the Samorans managed to attach the wooden ramp to the floating ruby. The metal-and-wood was painted a burgundy red, before clear tar was applied to waterproof and seal any imperfections in the wood. Although the dwindling timber fields of Bhuj'eruba suffer to some degree when one of these ships is built, the morale it brings to both traders and military alike is priceless for the Vaaldom.

An antique crimson carpet was rolled down from atop the Hashemara onto Port Superior, the Guildmaster Rizotto Razarro traversed its length and reached out his hand to Felix Vanderson. Guildmaster Rizotto was below Guildmaster Sandorz in rank, however, he was in charge of the second largest military and economic division in Bhuj'eruba - pyromancy, as the Bhuj called it, or incendiary devices to most other men. Although this trading mission, was for spice, gems and fabrics, Guildmaster Rizotto recalled a conversation he had with Guildmaster Sandorz before the Hashemara set sail from Bhuj'karaam.

"You are to smuggle our best incendiaries into Greater Samora, but you are not to use them under any circumstance. First, establish trade agreement with Greater Samora and then offer to sell the final crate. A rising nation like Greater Samora could always do with more high-quality weaponry produced by artisans as opposed to mass-produced goods with planned obsolescence."

"Very well, Sandy." Rizotto smirked, but would obey orders.






Sailing West and then Southwest, the sapphire-like Nenna reached the dock at last, not surprisingly an easy voyage in the artisan vessels.

"For the glory of Vaal, our ship Nenna has brought the Kingdom durable fabrics, gemstones of every hue, marble sculpture and books. Dusty tomes a'plenty for the Illayran people. We hope literature is a luxury the Illayrans enjoy. As well, the Vaal would have my head if I did not ask you to show me around your impressive Kingdom." the Guildmaster dutifully recited and shook Sir Lexinton's hand as they walked off the Dock, feeling rather joyous. At least for now. Men started unloading the smaller crates, as cranes on both the Hashemara and the dock removed the gargantuan crates.

[Vaalmasons Guild, Philinta
Grand Empire of Nihon]

What? Our ships aren't THAT fast, the emerald-green Philinta is still sailing towards the Grand Empire of Nihon. Captained by the Vaalmason's guild, they bring much gemstones, jewels, marble, strawberries, and local spice to the foreign land.

Daina was displeased with the Anoiwanian leader's choice. She didn't possess the authority to cause an international incident with the islanders. Putting her flagship in the line of fire left a foul taste on her tongue, but there was wisdom behind it. Antioch was much smaller than the Karlsland class that was spotted by her scouts, and likely wouldn't do much for intimidation. However, the threat of a Voldricht fleet hovering in international waters may. Daina summoned her officers.

"Commander Avira, rally the flotilla and draw them further out to sea, we don't want to cause any trouble with the Fortunans. Stay in communication range, if negotiations with the Karlslandic fleet go south we'll need you ready to deploy. Alert me the minute the battle group is in range."

"Understood ma'm."

Avira nodded and ducked out of the bridge.

If the Dictator wanted to do it his way so be it. The flotilla split, Daina and the Antioch powering towards Ahta-Matoi's capital while the carrier lead the rest of the Voldricht ships to international waters. It didn't take long for the cruiser to reach the harbor. The Antioch pulled into the harbor, the large ship dwarfed by the size of the Karlslandic battleship already docked in the bay. Daina felt her palms begin to sweat, she was in way over her head. For all the bluster she put forward she wasn't ready for this. She secretly cursed herself for agreeing to the Dictator's wishes, desiring nothing more than to return to her flotilla and wait for the Voldricht battle group to arrive. Antioch anchored, holding fast in the shadow of the Karlslandic ship. She wished she had some means of communicating with the local government aside from sending an away party, but a radio transmission without a dedicated channel would be easily picked up by the Karlslandic soldiers. Instead she waited, carefully watching the colossus across the bay. She barked at a nearby officer.

"Ensign, find Lieutenant Aith and relay these orders. I want all hands to battle stations, try to keep activity on the upper decks discrete, we don't want to send the wrong message, but we need to be prepared should the worst come to pass. Our ship may be able to secure an early advantage in the closed space of the bay, /if/ we can catch them by surprise. Tell her to keep the engines running, we need to be able to get up to speed quickly."

"Aye captain."

The ensign nodded before disappearing from the bridge. Daina muttered a prayer to a god she wasn't sure she believed in. 'Just let them go away, I don't want to die for trade rights.'

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http://www.youtube.com/user/RacoonJones

I've posted a new Brothers, a Tale of Two Sons video for anyone interested.

WHAT IN THE NAME OF VAAL IS GOING ON HERE?" General Aposum Kiln's tiny militia in their stealthy, swift, but small ship managed to arrive in the dock unnoticed, as well as rendezvous with the unexpected Voldritch vessel. Aposum had no idea who the unscrupulous looking character across from the Dictator was, but he was determined to find out. General Kiln snapped his fingers, and one of his soldiers removed the satin cloak that obscured his body, and the turban that obscured his face. Another soldier dutifully pulled up a chair and Kiln sat down, reached out his hand to shake the hand of both men, gaudy golden rings weighing his hand down slightly.

"Certainly an empire with your technological prowess is not picking on smaller, more vulnerable nations, Admiral Ron Knofer? As a nation which desires trade with the Fortuna-Ainowan colony, the great Vaaldom of Bhuj'eruba requests you not establish any action in the region which might impede the Motherland's trading. As for you Dictator, we fear we cannot let you make any decisions which may negatively affect your sovereignty. Bhuj'eruba shall mediate between the two parties on this issue. Our interests are mutual, would you two not agree?" General Aposum Kiln sat there with neat posture and expected the captain Daina of the Voldritch ship would be arriving any second now.

"In addition, it would be highly unethical of me not to inform the Kingdom of Illayra that one of their rightful colonies is making trade agreements which may directly endanger the Kingdom. Dictator of Fortuna-Ainowan, I must urge you reconsider for such "invitations" may not be in your best interest in the long-run. Do you wish for these foreign ships to turn your lush, green and preserved nation into a docking bay? Certainly you value your colony more than to prostitute it as a military base?" the General was crude, but sharply honest and did not mince words.


Every man has his limits.

Admiral Konfer was at his. Anger slowly grew up inside of him and threaten to lash out at the ignorant, rude general. But instead, Admiral Konfer harnessed the energy for the words that he was about to say. He slowly stood up and faced the general his eyes now lacking the friendly spirit they used to carry.

"General Kiln, I do not recall at any point today giving you permission to board my vessel, sit in on this trade negotiation, and give your lovely and ignorant filled commentary. As of right now, you are actually trespassing and violating both national and international naval agreements. Correct me if I am wrong, but I thought the man who sits before me is a man who leads a sovereign nation of islands who just fairly recently earned its independence, not some puppet that you whisper into his ear dictating what is right for his nation.

Further more, your lack of understanding of both the details of the offer and what the current situation means you have no right to judge it as such. Do you even see the benefits from this for ALL the surrounding nations as well as Fortuna-Ainowan?" He paused and gave a sigh to both compose himself and demonstrate great self control. "You have no reason to be concerned of your trade ships meeting any sort of problems from the Empire of Karlsland. In fact, this will open up new trade routes in the skies above since our cargo aircraft will finally be in range of your nation as well as others. In turn, this could potentially give your nation, Dictator, a significant boost in foreign commerce, only bolstering your economy." he closed his eyes and paused for a moment, then began to speak again. "Let me make this clear to both of you, if The Empire of Karlsland wanted to have a true military presence in the area, there would be a much bigger fleet waiting outside and we would have no need for an airfield. Our bombers already have the range they need for any situation. As I said before to the Dictator, The Empire of Karlsland is looking to expand it's political connections and economic trading sphere. That is all I have to say to you, General." With that, a squad of Karlslandic Marines formed up outside the already cramp conference room, and the squad leader entered, nodding to the admiral.

"I deny you further audience aboard my ship, and will only ask once politely for you and your staff to leave. You are fairly lucky General, if it I didn't know you any better, I would have assumed this was just some headstrong, inexperienced, self entitled officer that I would have thrown into the brig until he was present before martial court for violating Karlslandic and international naval policies. Naval Officer Rovn will escort you out. Leader of Fortuna-Ainowan, are there any objections from you?" He stare was stern, but he had held his anger back. General Aposum Kiln was probably saved any further tongue lashing or trial because of the past they shared as seamen.

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Capital of Kingdom of Illarya

The ambassador's vehicle was just arriving in front of the governmental building that held the leader of the nation. A well dressed man carrying a light suitcase stepped out of the car and entered the building, waiting for an audience with the leader of the Kingdom of Illarya.

_________________

''Yes, there is, Admiral.''

The Dictator stood up from the small, now oddly uncomfrotable chair he was sitting on, having remained silent since he had last talked ot the Admiral. He had followed the Admiral in hopes of convincing him that there would be a possiblity ot change his mind, yet the manner in which he spoke confirmed the Dictator's fears. The man would not go without signing something beneficial to their nation. In the bridge, he had set his eyes upon the beach below; a crowd was forming to watch the strange battleship and a contingent of soldiers of both nations eyed each other cautiously. The Dictator did feel that the battleship was fairly superior to any he had on his fleets, yet it was comparable in power to the Illarya vessels that had attacked him cowardly from the shores. Yet he remained quiet. When the Dictator entered the briefing room, he merely remained stoic to the Admiral's words and when given the letter, he simply set his eyes on it while listening to the Admiral. The letter did not reflect any hostile intentions towards Fortuna-Ainowan, basically the same that the Admiral had expressed.

The shouts of the crowd outside suddenly spiked up in volume and the hum of an engine could be heard from the inside of the room; the admiral was still talking when the footsteps outside suddenly found a stop behind him. The few soldiers of the three nations present stood ready in the room, the Sultanate's were the only ones with a semblance of hostility, having drawn their guns. When the General offered a handshake, the Dictator quietly took it. The situation had spiraled out of control and his life was now on the line. His palm was full of cold sweat as he reached out for the General's hand. The remarks of the General had angered the Admiral and he, in a more or less justified manner, snapped towards the General. The remarks had also bitten on the Dictator's pride; a man had managed to land on his shores, yet again fooling the armed forces, a man had given him now very explicit orders to ignore a more tactful negotiator in front of him. But most importantly, that very man had referred to Fortuna-Anoiwan as a colony. A rightful Illaryan colony. A slap on the face could have hurt less, even in front of a foreign ambassador. But the Dictator remained silent, simply feeling temporarily satisfied with the fact the General was at least being shouted at.

He stood up. He took a handkerchief out of his coat's pocket and cleaned the sweat off his forehead. And he spoke to both of the commanders in front of him.

''Admiral. I understand your concern for the sake of your ship, crew and the respect your nation holds. I understand your anger. But you have made appeals to international law that you yourself have breached. I apologize if I may have offended you before but you have stationed a warship without warning in the most populated island of the Fortunan archipielago; believe what you want but I consider any offense I've made appropiate. Now to respond to your proposal... a fair proposal, I have to admit. It is just and I can see the benefits that it carries for both countries, the Fortunan people and the region. But the way of adressing it was not the best. One does not ask of mutual cooperation while holding a gun, even if not aimed at the other party. A diplomat would have been more than enough, Admiral. I do not know how you adress diplomacy in your nation but the fleet you have at my borders tells me that the peaceful mission you have led through my waters, with its beautiful decorations, many rooms and six 44cm cannons, does not fly a flag of peace. You preach that the days of a cannon diplomacy have passed; yet your cannons are a few kilometers away from the presidential palace.

I do not need to defend my actions, they speak for themselves as a reaction towards yours. That said, I will consider this treaty... and I have not seen snow, but I have heard of it. It's a delight to hear that you have such a thing in your nation, rumour tells that it coats and blesses the landscape it falls on, purifying it with its pure white, no matter how bleak things may seem.

General. I first, want to welcome you to Fortuna-Ainowan. You have barged in the middle of a meeting and I apologize for not being available to recieve you and your men. I hope the travel went well and that fortune awaits for both of us. Tell your men to lower their guns, as I have said to the Admiral, a weapon is a matter that awakens every persons' distrust for its holder. It calls for instinct to react. And instinct is one of the few things that cannot be allowed in a negotiation; trusting your gut and leading yourself through emotion doesn't benefit any party. And before leaving the ship, which I hope the Admiral doesn't mind, as he has expressed... I need to clarify something.

I do not know how fast news travel through the vast lands unexplored by the eyes of men in this island. I can not comprehend the distance you must have gone through to establish a relation that will clearly benefit us all, even the Empire of Karlsland. But you probably have heard of the genocide commited on this land. The water is tainted by blood and the bones buried in the sand are being eaten by the sea, still fresh. Shallow graves are everywhere you see, as long as they are out of the roads. We lost twelve million people, General. And we lost them because we wanted to decide what we wanted to do. Because we wanted to form families without fearing our sons would be working the fields until collapsing. Their hands bled for the crops the Illaryan wanted.

We are not a rightful Illaryan colony. The Kingdom of Illarya holds no right to look our way. Not to step on our islands. Not to travel on our airspace or waters. We will certainly not prostitute ourselves. But refer not to us as a colony, General.

Please.

Gentlemen, you are both respected in our land. I will explain to you both, who may not understand where I stand from. This archipielago stands at the crossroads of powerful empires who look down on us as a mere tool. As a staging base for invasions at worst. I understand you do not view us as such but the three neighbouring nations hold great interest on our nation. To them we are a threat and a weapon but we are not a state, no matter how much they express they respect us. At this very moment, a Voldritch fleet stands not too far, in fact, they responded to the incursion of the Karlslandic ships. This probably will give you a representation of how powerless we are. A treaty that involves troops stationed here, no matter how little of a regiment, is seen as siwtching sides to an enemy, if not military enemy, a threat to their respective economies. I would not be surprised if the damned Illaryans and the Dhelmar Republic are also having ships stationed not too far from our borders. They probably knew of your arrival here before I did, Admiral. Trade is not out of the question. But I can't risk my people.

Admiral, you wanted to unwind on our islands, did you not? I recommend we go quickly if we can. This ship is probably being aimed at, so take your soldiers with you. A life can't be lost.'' The Dictator took a long breath and walked to the bridge, in order to exit the ship. On his way down, ensuring that both men were behind him (I'll... kind of assume you guys followed me.) he started to speak again. ''I have had an idea for some time but I hadn't seen it as strictly necessary. I do now. I will discuss more about it when we get to the Presidential Palace but the gist of it is a multilateral treaty between every nation. Something like what you have proposed, Admiral but without the need for a military intervention.

A neutral base for commercial transport in Fortuna-Ainowan; the interests of everyone would be protected by ourselves.

A way to ensure peace.''

Greater Samora, Port Superior, Offices of Felix Vanderson

"Right this way to Mr. Vanderson's offices, sir," The secretary walked with the Grandmaster for a while, making small talk with questions such as 'What do you do' and 'How are your impressions of Samora'. The port's offices for Vanderson was more of a skyscraper. They rode the elevator up to the top floor, where the secretary stayed behind. "Mr. Vanderson eagerly awaits your arrival."

The offices were large, with the entire back wall windows that allowed a view of the sea. A few ships were lazily leaving the port, but for the most part all was quiet. Rizotto could see his own ship from his vantage point. Felix Vanderson himself was dressed in a sleek grey suit and red tie. He was younger than most would expect, a bit younger than 40. Vanderson was fit, with slicked black hair and a thin mustache. "Welcome, sir, to Samora. And welcome to the Vanderson Peninsula, my own little heavenly kingdom on this earth."

"What Felix forgets is that the kingdom he lives in is Samora," Said the woman sitting next to him. She wore a white dress and had curly blonde hair, which along with her excessive pearl jewelry gave her an innocent yet elegant air. "Greetings, Grandmaster. I'm Golden Nora Isiah. My husband Cage will be Vanguard one day."

"Brag more, Goldy," Felix said jokingly. "Because I'm sure that our friend did not come here to discuss Micajah."

Illarya City - Government Hall

Mr. Anderson, secretary of the Prime Minister waited outside of Government Hall for the arrival of the ambassador of Karlsland. Government Hall is a 400 year old palace. A symbol of Illaryan wealth and power. Build as a palace for the Illaryan royal family in the early days of the empire it became the center of government when the kingdom made its transition from absolute monarchy to a parliamentary democracy. Now the building houses the meeting rooms of both the house of lords and the house of commons and many government offices including that of the Prime Minister.

As the ambassador of Karlsland left his car Mr Anderson approached him and introduced himself as the secretary of Prime Minister Mycroft Stone and asked the ambassador to follow him towards the prime minister's office. The Prime Minister's office was located in one of the towers. The high windows of the chamber gave an excellent view of the gardens of government hall. Prime Minister Stone looked up as the secretary entered his office in company of the ambassador of Karlsland. "please sit down, it is always a pleasure to have a diplomat of friendly nation visiting." Said the prime minster on a friendly tone as he pointed towards the seat on the other side of his bureau. Then the most powerful man of the kingdom looked at his secretary. "Mr Anderson, please make us some tea" The secretary left the room.

Mycroft Stone observed how then ambassador took his seat. The man looked relaxed and confident. The Prime Minister judged that a competent diplomat was sitting in front of him. "It has come to our nation's attention that a naval taskforce of Karlsland has sailed to Fortuna-Aiowan and violated their territorial waters. Care to explain the sudden interest in the archipelago? "

Lorin - Dock 16A

Minister of economy Sir Lexinton shook the hand of the hand of Guildmaster Sandorz Ziguratto from the Sultanate of Bhuj'eruba. "It is my honor to meet you, sir" Replied the minister as they walked of the dock. "I'm pretty confident that we can do business. There is always someone interested in luxury goods and arts. I'll have arranged a lunch for us at the Royal Illaryan Business Club, it is a meeting point for entrepreneurs, traders, merchants, bankers and investors. I'll arrange some meetings with people who might be interested in buying the goods your beautiful country has to offer. I also do suggest we take some specimen of your wares to the business club. I know a friend of mine will be very interested in your fabrics." Spoke Sir Lexington as the secretary opened up the car for both men. "To the Royal Illaryan business club please" ordered the economy minster.

The secretary drove the car across the large highways of the harbor district of Lorin. Everywere you would look people where working on loading or unloading ships, putting containers on trains or work on improving the infrastructure. As the car continued its journey inlands Sir Lexington started to ask some questions to the guildmaster "You've asked me earlier for a tour of our country. I'm sure you're well aware that Illarya holds fast territories overseas and some places are many thousands of miles away from here. It would be impossible to show the entire country to you in a short time. Are there any specific areas of interest you would like to visit? Like our aviation industry or agricultural businesses?"