Restoration: A Post Apocalyptic RP [IC]

[Alleniana]

To the United Councils of Kent,
Greetings, fellow Englishmen. We, here in London, this formerly great city as so many were, write to talk about a possible trade deal, one that would make us both prosperous. Using the Thames and our border as a trade conduit, we propose that all goods being traded between us are traded without tariffs or taxes, or anything of that nature. This would enable a highly beneficial industry to develop; we would buy your coal, hops, iron ore, grain and chalk, and sell machinery, vinegar, beer, iron and other processed goods. We hope that you will look at this with the eyes of one who wishes cooperation and reconstruction to flourish, and look forward to your response.
From the London Industrial Syndicate Council (LISC)

To the London Industrial Syndicate Council:
We happily accept your trade proposal and hope that it causes both our nations to prosper.In a month's time we will be sending you a fleet of 5 merchant ships loaded with the finest goods in the land, giving you another taste of what Kent has to offer. We look forward to your amazing processed goods and wish for a lucrative trade relationship between us as we blossom together.
From: The United Councils Of Kent.

To the United Councils of Kent,
We are most glad that such an agreement has been ushered in, and look forward to the first trading ships that come in. Perhaps, even, we can build a train line and telegraph wire between Dover and London? That would boost our relations greatly, as well as make trade, which I suspect we will be doing a lot in future due to our needs and exports, much easier. Of course, it is your decision, but we would be glad for such advancements and furthering. Indeed, even, maybe we can have a military alliance? In any case, to cement the deal, our first trading fleet will be arriving in Kent bearing things such as pipes, tanks, wires, electronics, wheels, scaffolding and other industrial equipment, which will be sold there. We also suggest that in future, maritime trade is conducted by one of us sending a fleet to the other on alternating days, the fleet arriving, selling, then taking aboard other goods and setting off, allowing a day for them to reach, ensuring military ships are able to protect them from pirates.
From the LICS

With the trade deal signed with Kent, the massive boom in the economy caused by the hiring was making London better by leaps and bounds. Rubbish was being collected and reused, recycled or dumped to fill holes and covered over in dirt, the soil, resting for so many years was showing promising sings of being fertile even after the pollution, and now, it looked as if some major projects might come to pass. London was and an industrial hellhole, but it was getting better, bit by bit.

[Great Nepal]

Hertfordshire
It was one in the morning when task force alpha crossed the border to Hertfordshire under command of General Douglas Rippeon. The task force were making no secret of their identity, the lead pick up truck in rather large convoy was flying the banner of Oxfordshire while several trucks followed close behind with pick ups bringing the rear and flanks. The convoy kept to A41 closely, carrying out orders to "neutralize any threat seen". The road was fairly deserted, either because it was late in night or because they were scared off by gun fire and trumpets. Either way, as the convoy approached M25, general spoke loudly "delta two, reduce noise and scout the university for any hostile presence".

Pick up on the flank acknowledged the order as it moved out and speeded up for the university. As they passed in front of the university, driver could see the fortifications, not too clearly but enough to know this was no thugs. It could not have been, the fortifications were too civilized and ideal, act of someone who was trained in urban warfare. Another professional army, and intel suggested there was only one other army interested in Hertfordshire: Cambridgeshire. It seems the newly formed cordial relations were not to last. Major took his walkie talkie from belt as he set the frequency speaking softly "delta two, HeShin004, sigma". There was no response but major was certain that message got through, in those three words he had sent entire message that needed to be sent, the information that was required. That the location was occupied by hostile forces from Cambridge. That the scout team were going to perform s-maneuver and that radio silence was to be observed until their assistance was required.

After leaving the truck about five kilometre from university, major dismounted with four other men as he burnt all documents and tucked forty eight gram death cap in shoulder patch, strategically designed so that it wouldn't be searched when captured and the contents could be retrieved even if hands were tied. It was strategy designed by command to ensure information would not be divulged in case of capture. Every man above rank of sergeant was to be issued with one portion of death cap with direct orders to ingest it if in their discretion ability to escape capture was none existent. Those below the rank were considered not to have any sensitive information therefore left out of the scheme. As major passed the portion to all four men he spoke "you know when to use this", as he picked up weaponry from the truck along with ropes, and explosives as he instructed "we are going to to climb the building to the roof, so that we can get clear understanding of the tactical positions, instruct the team as to the targets and when the general requests it, we are going to attack from the roof" as he passed around black overalls, to go well with the night, "make sure to avoid the windows".

The task force arrived about ten minutes after the team under major scaled the building, splitting into two equal groups one approaching from the south and another approaching from north with general commanding the south flank. As the team burst the glasses and entered the building, firing machine guns randomly at the front while two explosives were thrown towards the south. While general spoke loudly "This is General Douglas Rippeon of Republic of Oxfordshire commandeering this facility for the republic with immediate effect for an indeterminate period of time as requested by the local populace. All resistance forces are ordered to stand down or we will be forced to use lethal force to apprehend those who seek to subvert the will of local populace".

[Sebtopiaris]

10 or so wooden merchant ships, each with a dark green letter K printed onto its side, sailed towards the London port. " Hey!", one of the merchants shouted at the people on the dock ", How would you like to buy some fresh fruit, coal, hops, iron ore, grain and chalk from the bountiful lands of kent!?".
As the boat approached the dock and people began pulling out their bags of money and goods one man, his face covered in stubble, threw over the anchor before they clambered onto the dock. In the distance they saw puffs of smoke and factories, indicating that this was clearly an industrial area as promised. " Bring out some fruit!", The stubble-faced man shouted to the young boy who was scrubbing on the deck. Things were about to get traded...
OOC: who likes my new flag?

[Cressageland]

Shrewsbury Quay, Kingdom Of Salopia

The prepared Flotilla was made of the remaining motorized ships at the command of the kingdom. well maintained over the years by a dedicated team of old-world mechanics and the stockpiled parts for them. They rarely saw use however, as there was little use of them when the cheap, expendable rafts where so readily available from the huge amount of Lumber available, with not much else to use it on. Regardless the small group of ships were to be used for this journey downriver to the cities of Bristol and Gloucester. Officially they had the mission of finding survivors. In reality, the mission given to them by the king himself was so classified that the Nobles of his court were not aware of it.

'In Bristol, there is a factory that once produced aircraft, or at least parts of them' The king had told the Highest ranking members of the crew when he had briefed them on the mission. 'Find this factory and return to us with its location. We can then send troops to secure it. The machines there will be used to help bring some of our greatest pre-disaster assets to full strength'. They all knew he was talking about the planes at the numerous RAF bases dotted around the kingdom, even if none of them voiced this knowledge.

They set off a couple of hours later for a re-supply in Bridgnorth before spending a night in Iron-bridge, then heading out into the unknown.

Bishops Castle, near the Welsh Border

The Lord of the small town of Bishops castle and its surrounding area was still livid that he didn't have permission to bring more of Wales into his land. To vent his Frustration at this, he sent increasingly frequent and violent raids into Wales to try and strengthen his claim to the land but it still didn't help. It wasn't all bad news however for the Border lords however, when it was revealed that the king had been taken unwell, and wasn't recovering soon. Most lords made plans to return to Shrewsbury at once in case of his death and the ensuing hustings for the control of the Kingdom

OCC: cool flag man, 10/10 would flag again

[Project Atropos]

New CambridgePhillip knew this was all in the past, but he could not let go. He could never let go.

OOC: I bet he's been waiting for this moment all his life

[Venmar]

Elgin, Scotland

Hans swore under his breath as he trudged through the angry crowd, two men on each side protecting him, holding back the people who were throwing useless things in his direction. One of the bodyguards elbowed a bearded man across the face when he tried to charge through with a pointed stick, the man flattening on the ground upon impact. He was quickly dragged off by the security when Hans muttered the order, trying to keep focused. 'This is getting worse by the day...' Hans thought, trying to keep walking. Up ahead a woman was yelling in his direction, madly pointing with her finger, beating the air as if it was going to make a difference. Hans stopped the escort to look at her with his deep hazel eyes, almost quieting her on command. Reaching out his hand, he cupped her cheek gently, making eye contact,

" I need you people to start trusting me. You elected me, now pull up your big pants, stop crying about it, and learn to deal with your decisions. I am going to fix this, but this isn't helping. "

He turned to the rest of the crowd, who were now silent upon hearing him speak.

" You think I am doing nothing? I am doing EVERYTHING in my power to fix our problems, I am doing my very best. The matter of the fact just is, this isn't a simply issue and it will take time, more planning. You people are safe, you are fed and cared for, you have so much. We strive to be a model for Britain, and we are! " He paused, taking in their faces before continuing, " We are smart, and we WILL come to a solution. We are the remnants of the world before the plague, one of the last believers in the Old Way. You think this is going to be easy? Rebuilding such a feat without hiccups? Think again. "

With that, he turned and resumed his walk, his escort falling in without a moments of hesitation. The crowd, for the most part, calmed down, but some returned to their panic and kept yelling all over again. Hans shook his head and just wanted to be back in his office already.

---

President Hans's Office

" Sir, the people are restless, they are worried and they are scared. Bandit attacks have only escalated since last month, we are having a hard enough time holding back the current waves of bandits and looters. Our military is stretched, our resource line thin, we are fighting on three borders. The ma- "

" You think I don't notice any of this?! " Hans snapped, cutting the man off.

" You have to reassure the citizens that everything will be fine.. " the man said, not even blinking at the Presidents rage.

" I already did "

" No, you gave a crude response to a mad mob. You didn't do much in hopes of ending their concer- "

" Are you here to advise me or criticize me? " Hans said.

" Both. "

Hans stood from his seat and turned around, staring out of his window. " You see, James, these people don't know what they want, or what is best for them. No matter what I say to them, no matter how much i reassure them, they just get lost in their own fantasies and blame me for it. "

James shook his head, " They just need guidance. "

Hans almost laughed at that, " When I started this movement, this.... country.. I called for everyone who wanted to see the Old World again, the one before this plague. I didn't attract just visionaries, or determined believers. " Hans looked at James, " You know who else? ".

James shook his head.

" Lunatics. People who's vision of the Old World is now distraught and clouded. Their expectations are too much for me to handle, you know that? They think we had flying cars, or superpowers before the plague. How am I supposed to please these people with impossible deeds when they make up almost half of my population? "

" Make them see their wrong, teach them. "

Hans was full of it, " I am FIGHTING an endless war against bandits and rapists with seeming endless manpower! How am I supposed to do both? Tell me James! "

Rising to his feet, James simply straightened his suit and looked at the president without breaking eye contact. " You start finally being a President. "

Hans stared at him, maintaining the eye contact. 'I owe this man too much respect.' , he thought for a second, pondering, and looked at James. " You're my adviser, what should I do? "

" Finally interacting and forging alliances with the other non-barbaric nations is a good start. Sir. " James said. Hans stared and shook his head, his teeth clenched, " There's no one we can trust, most of them are furiously anti- Old World Order, they want to start their own countries or seek their own power. "

James smiled, " We just need their soldiers. "

From: President Hans Dorner of the Northern Restoration
To: The Nations of Britain and Ireland

The Northern Restoration would like to formally ask the nations of Britain and Ireland for an audience to finally discuss the opportunity and chance to form agreements of trade and alliance. The Northern Restoration has been a prosperous nation of stability, and we believe that finally involving ourselves in international matters is now one of our greatest interests. The threats of this devastated world are numerous beyond count, it's only when the civilized peoples of this world stand by each other and fight on one side shall we create a realm of safety free from rape and death. We are open to negotiations, and seek friends as well as allies, and hope that the nations of Britain and Ireland will consider this opportunity to finally open relations with our nation for the betterment of all involved.

We await your response.

[The Nation of Hay]

Hertfordshire

A large group of men dropped down from the roof. One man, their commander, had loudly ordered the surrender of the Cambridgian soldiers. To the leader of the squad, Colonel Adam Douglas, it seemed that the men that had just dropped from above hadn't noticed his men hiding, ready to strike if the need be. He replied to the man,

"Woah, there, no need for any deaths today, "General". We were here first. It does seem to me, however, that you have a few more men than I do," he gestured to the men he still had beside him, about two-thirds of the force he had arrived with, the others hidden and read to open fire, "I'd just love throw up my hands and call it a day, but we both know that's not going to happen. Neither of us wants the other dead, but we both want this place. What's say we have a little discussion?" The Colonel put his gun down and had a seat in a nearby chair. He beckoned for General Rippeon to join him.

[Ralnis]

Dublin Conclaves
After three months, the ship was finally built out of the scrap metal and parts of other ships. The great adventure into the Great Gap and cross it to see what lies beyond. Some books had claimed of a place called " England" and a place called" Briton" and another that called it " Albion. " The description of these places were amazing sit to behold and make the Tech Shamans have more interest to cross the seas and find more knowledge.

The ship was fully stocked and fueled, ready for its great travel. The Tech Shamans prepared a team of seven to go and do the honors and spread the One Spark to the people across the Great Gap. This was the first time they ever reached outside of their Conclaves while they try to retake the city of Dublin one block or countryside at a time.

The next day, the boat was prepared for the seas, its rust on some parts and the electronics were taking out in order to have more floatation and speed. The wires were either replaced or spliced between each other in order to compensate for the loss of navigation. What was emplaced were compasses and maps that was in the middle that was old and torn and have directions of the city of Dublin. A small cabinet was on the right that had roles of parchment that were to record the seas and places they have been to are their journeys.

With the wave of prayer and goodbyes, the seven turned on the ship by flipping a light switch and the engine started rumbling the hull of the ship and the smoke stacks started lifting clouds of black into the air. The ship started moving with a roaring of the population as it set sail across the Gab towards England.

[Alleniana]

Van Lane, London Central, London
The metal-plated monstrosities with armaments poking out like the spines of a porcupine rolled down the road, making a strangely reassuring heavy clanking sound as they moved. The people cheered, and children ran in front of the slow moving beasts. Built from old designs found in some books, they were crude imitations of pre-plague tanks, though many parts were omitted and thought that they would not be needed, due to some engineers' thoughts. The few that had been built were rumbling for a test and to give the populace morale, and it was doing it. The people lined Van Lane, the main thoroughfare of London, an old road clear through the wreckage, and cheered them on, keeping them back themselves; they knew how easy it was to die in this environment. Suddenly, gasps and quietness came as the 2nd tank broke down, and smoke began to come from it, and some people climbed coughing. Clearly, improvements were needed.

Southwark Docks, London

10 or so wooden merchant ships, each with a dark green letter K printed onto its side, sailed towards the London port. " Hey!", one of the merchants shouted at the people on the dock ", How would you like to buy some fresh fruit, coal, hops, iron ore, grain and chalk from the bountiful lands of kent!?".
As the boat approached the dock and people began pulling out their bags of money and goods one man, his face covered in stubble, threw over the anchor before they clambered onto the dock. In the distance they saw puffs of smoke and factories, indicating that this was clearly an industrial area as promised. " Bring out some fruit!", The stubble-faced man shouted to the young boy who was scrubbing on the deck. Things were about to get traded...
OOC: who likes my new flag?

(Wooden? Metal is more plentiful these days, though much of it is rubbish quality)
The men on the docks didn't care much, but many others came to the dock. The officers, knowing that Kent didn't have to pay tariffs, stood back. They would let the people haggle with the merchants. As the Kentish began unloading, people rushed forward to see if they could get a good bargain. They began haggling, saying, even shouting prices, and some just looking. They tried to offer their London pounds in return for the goods; these were of really fairly good quality, and even some industrial workers came to but iron ore, hops, coal, chalk and whatnot for industry, while others merely wanted food.

London Archives, London Central
The new archives, effectively a nice large building patched up and filled with all manner of recordings of every form was rapidly filling. Books were flying in from many of the "libraries" around the city, as well as from scavengers and whatnot, as there were quite a few who couldn't read or had no motivation to do so. It would be a really fairly decent storehouse for knowledge, a central location. Anyone who wanted to borrow would be constantly watched by a librarian and a guard would make sure no force was used, but all the same, it would be nice for London to have a central building for the purpose, even badly maintained. With the vinegar, gunpowder, metal, container, crockery and even ornament factories springing up, many restoring cars, reusing glass or making basic electronics from scavenged parts, knowledge would be a premium commodity.

[Great Nepal]

Hertfordshire
General smiled at the seemingly casual approach of the colonel, almost as if he was acting independently without any scripted orders. Second officer, Jessie whispered, "general, this is highly irregular and I suspect trap. We have a clear shot", general held up his hands as he dismissed "hold your fire, I am going there. If someone opens fire, taking him out". Jessie objected immediately "sir, that violates our orders. I strongly recommend taking out the commander", Douglas replied "no, it doesn't. Our orders were to secure this premises, not necessarily to engage in fire fight and that is what I am doing", he didn't necessarily need to explain this but general orders enabled insubordinates to take command if direct orders were not being followed, he paused before continuing "but, your objections have been noted".

General walked straight towards colonel, putting his gun in nearby chair but close enough to grab it if needed as he questioned "Colonel, I assume you are not from this county so which government do you represent", in a tone that would almost suggest he was unaware of the situation.

(OOC: Maybe we should do the conversation via TG and then post the transcript here so we make good sized posts?)

[Cressageland]

Gloucester
The journey had taken a few days, what with frequent breakdowns, the many obstacles in their way and the general sense of caution urged by the crew of each ship but they had made it to Gloucester. They made a temporary base in an abandoned Marina and scouted out the immediate area. There was no-one they could see, so they made a note to suggest this stop as a more permanent location for a base. They continued on to Bristol in the morning.

Shrewsbury Castle
The assembled Nobles watched as the Kings spokesman walked out into the reception room where they waiting. He walked up to a podium and began to speak. 'As of five minutes ago, King David the first is dead'. A stunned silence swept over the room. The spokesman continued speaking. 'It is now up to you, the assembled lords of the kingdom to elect a new king. None of you may leave the castle until the vote is over, the vote will be tonight. a simple majority is required, the civil service will rule in his stead until then. Long live the kingdom of Salopia'. The Nobles murmured back a mirrored response, leaving to their quarters for the lobbying process.

[Venmar]

From: President Hans Dorner of the Northern Restoration
To: The Nations of Britain and Ireland

The Northern Restoration would like to formally ask the nations of Britain and Ireland for an audience to finally discuss the opportunity and chance to form agreements of trade and alliance. The Northern Restoration has been a prosperous nation of stability, and we believe that finally involving ourselves in international matters is now one of our greatest interests. The threats of this devastated world are numerous beyond count, it's only when the civilized peoples of this world stand by each other and fight on one side shall we create a realm of safety free from rape and death. We are open to negotiations, and seek friends as well as allies, and hope that the nations of Britain and Ireland will consider this opportunity to finally open relations with our nation for the betterment of all involved.

We await your response.

Hans finished writing the (above) second copy of the letter with his neat handwriting, folding the two letters and placing them inside two neatly made envelopes. Licking the flap, he sealed them and lifted his gaze to the two men standing in front of him. One of them was a heavily bearded and muscular man in a faded blue and white overalls used at sea, wearing a worn out sailors cap. His dark brown hair and blue eyes stood out as key characteristics. The mans name was simply Ned, he was one of the nations strongest and best sailors, having sailed with the Royal Navy before the plague. The second man was younger, with combed back black hair and deep hazel eyes. A lighter beard covered his jaw line and neck. He was wearing simple brown and black clothes, a heavy brown jacket and hard boots. His name was Rob.

Hans took the envelopes in hand and looked at the men, holding them in separate hands, " These envelopes hold a very important message to some very important people. We have chosen you to carry them because you are the best couriers we have. " he paused and looked them closer. " Have I been mislead? "

They shook their heads.

" Good. " Hans said brightly, lifting his left hand at Ned, " You are one of our best sailors, take this to the Orkney Free States, and deliver it directly to the hands of one of their senators. Do not give it to ANYONE other than them, not their security, not their advisers, only themselves, is that understood? ".

Ned nodded his head, " Yes sir. "

Smilling, Hans continued, " Leave at first light tomorrow, and make quick speed if it permits. Your crew has been paid, and we have prepared your supplies for the voyage, " Hans pushed a small envelope with Neds payment, " and this is yours. "

" Too generous my sir, " Ned bowed when he politely took the envelope. Tucking it inside of his overalls, he turned and left to prepare. Rob straightened as the president looked at him. Sliding his fingers, Hans revealed two letters instead of one to him. " Your task is harder, I fear. You're one of our fastest and best couriers by land, yes? "

" Yup. "

Hans narrowed his eyes at the un-professional response, but continued, " I need one of these to reach New Manchester, and the other to reach Leedingham. Is that possible? "

Rob stuttered and stopped before responding. " Sir... with all due respect, that is a very tough task... there's at least four or five provinces between us and Leedingham... I won't make it through all of the hostile territory alone. "

'At least he showed some respect, but a true courier wouldn't complain' Hans thought, " You guaranteed us that you can get from place to place without issue or getting caught, we were hoping you would live up to that promise. " . When Rob started to protest Hans smiled, " You will get an escort if you want one, a squad of trained soldiers. "

" I... I would be glad of one, sir. "

" Good. You leave first light tomorrow, like Ned, and your escort will contact you later today. Your payment will be given to you by one of them when they seem fit." Hans handed over the two envelopes. " And please, get these to them in one piece. "

Clearly dissatisfied by not being paid up front, Rob took the envelopes, bowed, and left the office.

Leaning back in his chair, Hans pondered on what the three "countries" will say if these lads reach them in one piece. Their journey's will start tomorrow.

[Paketo]

new Manchester

"GGGGGGOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL" yelled the announcer n the Megaphone as the ball hit the net. This was the first futball since the plague and that was the first goal. The stadium was not yet finished but was able to be played in. For another 70 minutes, fans watched the two teams battle with ManU coming out on top 3-2. This was a treat for the people as they would have to go back to work tomorrow to endured the survival of they city next winter. The people left the stadium in high spirits especially president Donovan. "That was a good game Rooney" said President Donovan to his friend Wayne Rooney. "Yes, I still got it don't I" responded Rooney. "Like you had it in the first place" said Donovan before both of them started laughing. The pair then went to then pub for a pint.

[Ruridova]

Stornoway, the Kingdom of Heilanansair

Malcolm Chattan, age 31, could still remember the world before the Red Plague.

Malcolm had been born in 1993, 21 years before the red plague, one of the few to survive. He could still remember the old United Kingdom, when these isles were called the Outer Hebrides, not Heilanansair. He could still remember the Scottish-printed versions of the pound sterling, the little coins that all bore the face of an elderly royal woman, her name slipping his mind, he remembered that it was called the United Kingdom. He remembered the issues in the year before the apocalypse, spying scandals and bans on ideologies and civil wars.
He also remembered the Red Plague itself, losing his parents, his friends, his family- and the Hebrides had done well, simply by cutting off all contact with the outside world. In the vacuum that resulted, Malcolm had seized power, and declared himself King.

The new nation did not call itself the Hebrides, but Heilanansair, a bastardization of the old Scottish Gaelic name. It would have been surprising to see in 2024 to anyone from 2013- a feudal monarchy, with Malcolm as its absolute monarch, Malcolm I. It was a rarity, an oddity, but also a success. The land was stable, the population worked diligently, they really had come out lucky.
Now, Malcolm hopes that his luck would continue. He remembered hearing, once, of a Kingdom of the Isles, a kingdom composed of the Hebrides, Mann, the Clydes, Shetland, and Orkney. He hoped to recreate the kingdom, and maybe(once that job was done) even snatch up some of the Highlands, Bute, and Argyll. Little stood in his way, other than possibly the Orkney Free State. But surely they would be no issue in the long run, and once they were dealt with, no opposition yet stood in his way on any of the other islands.

Allies, though, were always a good thing to have. He decided to write letters to two other nations, the Remnants of the Republic of Ireland and the Northern Restoration:

Good day!

I, Malcolm Chattan, King of Heilanansair, hereby ask for a response to an offer of a wholly beneficial alliance between our great nations.
I would like to hear your response as soon as you can send it.

Signed,
Malcolm, King of Heilanansair and Head of House Chattan

It ran the risk of being too brief, but Malcolm was not one for verbosity, and didn't like to bury a simple message in loads of writing. He hoped they would accept, and hoped for luck as he tried to recreate the Kingdom of the Isles.

[Azaflaza]

Across the white kingdom sheep and the farmers still roamed. It was the busiest time of season with all the spring lambs being born. In fact it was busy for all farms as this was the point when most life was born. But despite the kingdoms history of being a rural backwater the truth was rather something different. Yes it had vast agricultural potential and could produce far more food than it needed but it wasn't called the energy coast for nothing. The one of the most important sites in the kingdom, sellafield the nuclear decommissioning site, was also the place where many survivors were when the plague struck. A few did die but those who were given the biochemical suits kept in case of a leak were saved.

These people had vast amounts of knowledge and they weren't the only ones. Engineers, military personnel and lilyhall employees all had vital knowledge that must be past down. So the council in Whitehaven organised an old institution known as gen. II. They used this to make all new teenagers who had just finished school at the age of 13 into apprentices. This way the experts could work and teach at the same time and the apprentices could learn and work at the same time. Children could chose which sector they went in but there were limited places as certain sectors need more people than others and their decision would be final, lifelong.

The peace walls around the kingdoms old boundaries kept the people safe from bandits and allowed trade with these roaming groups who if they didn't buy would get nothing and out in the harsh north that wasn't an option. But the southern province which wasn't part of the kingdom but was within the walls was gang controlled and it was a threat. 200 well equipped reserve soldiers were called up and sent into the south in armoured vehicles stolen from army bases. Another 50 were stuffed into two patrol boats that used to be part of the coast guard, they were well armed with a machine gun on each but only big enough to transport 25 soldiers each.

The transition into finding more renewable sources of energy was ongoing, the old coal mines were reopened but they wouldn't last for long as most had been drained dry during the industrial revolution. Constructing wind turbines and solar panels was out of the kingdoms capabilities so they would need to find a manufacturing province to trade with. The days when the disease reached the kingdom there was an old wooden ship festival in various harbours along the coast which meant that the kingdom had vast wooden trading ships that were maintained but never use that now may see some action. A total of 35 trading ships were available.

[Cressageland]

Shrewsbury Castle

It had taken days, but the candidates for the Kingship had fallen down to two. Lord Jones of Bishops castle had gained the support of the Border Lords. His platform consisted of expansion into Wales and subjugation of any peoples who lived there. In opposition, Lord David of Market Drayton called for exploration, to find other peoples to trade with, he had gained support of the old businessmen. It was a close race, a few minor nobles deciding the vote, but when Lord Jones implied land would be given to those lords if the voted for him it was a forgone conclusion. Lord Jones was Voted King Jones of Salopia the next day.
Within days, a Levy force of a couple of hundred soldiers had been gathered on the welsh border. Preparing for a push up to Welshpool across the border.

Severn Bridge, Mouth of the river Severn

The crews looked in awe at the bridge. It had collapsed in the middle, but it was still the largest constructions any of them had ever seen. using old maps, they stuck as close to the shore as possible. None of their ships were capable of bracing anything close to the open sea, and there was still some way to go to Bristol

[Sebtopiaris]

10 or so wooden merchant ships, each with a dark green letter K printed onto its side, sailed towards the London port. " Hey!", one of the merchants shouted at the people on the dock ", How would you like to buy some fresh fruit, coal, hops, iron ore, grain and chalk from the bountiful lands of kent!?".
As the boat approached the dock and people began pulling out their bags of money and goods one man, his face covered in stubble, threw over the anchor before they clambered onto the dock. In the distance they saw puffs of smoke and factories, indicating that this was clearly an industrial area as promised. " Bring out some fruit!", The stubble-faced man shouted to the young boy who was scrubbing on the deck. Things were about to get traded...
OOC: who likes my new flag?

(Wooden? Metal is more plentiful these days, though much of it is rubbish quality)
The men on the docks didn't care much, but many others came to the dock. The officers, knowing that Kent didn't have to pay tariffs, stood back. They would let the people haggle with the merchants. As the Kentish began unloading, people rushed forward to see if they could get a good bargain. They began haggling, saying, even shouting prices, and some just looking. They tried to offer their London pounds in return for the goods; these were of really fairly good quality, and even some industrial workers came to but iron ore, hops, coal, chalk and whatnot for industry, while others merely wanted food.

as more merchant boats pulled up on the dock, kentish traders came out to haggle with the hungry londoners. After most of the people had gone, the officials came in knowing that the traders had saved the best things for the officials. They carried valuable coins and goods that would be treasured in Kent.
" Thanks for your lovely stuff", said the capatain of one of the ships as they prepared to leave.

[Alleniana]

(Wooden? Metal is more plentiful these days, though much of it is rubbish quality)
The men on the docks didn't care much, but many others came to the dock. The officers, knowing that Kent didn't have to pay tariffs, stood back. They would let the people haggle with the merchants. As the Kentish began unloading, people rushed forward to see if they could get a good bargain. They began haggling, saying, even shouting prices, and some just looking. They tried to offer their London pounds in return for the goods; these were of really fairly good quality, and even some industrial workers came to but iron ore, hops, coal, chalk and whatnot for industry, while others merely wanted food.

as more merchant boats pulled up on the dock, kentish traders came out to haggle with the hungry londoners. After most of the people had gone, the officials came in knowing that the traders had saved the best things for the officials. They carried valuable coins and goods that would be treasured in Kent.
" Thanks for your lovely stuff", said the capatain of one of the ships as they prepared to leave.

A merchant ran up to them,
"Hey! Maybe we will send our boats to join yours, and so we have a fleet that goes from London to Kent one day, then Kent to London the next? That would protect us from pirates! We could start today? What do you say?"
The merchants were excited about this; money could be made, and money was good. It was capital in the industrial city of London.

To the United Councils of Kent,
We write to you, yet again, about a different economic matter. We were wondering if you would agree to adopt the pound, minted by us, as your currency. We would change the coin to be rather more generic, as well as let you have an equal say in its design, pricing, even future names and subdivisions. This would create a joint economic zone, as well as help replace the primitive barter system, and improve the efficiency of both of our lands. Would this be a deal?
From the LISC

The archives, meanwhile, had been getting fuller and fuller and larger. Old artifacts from museums, tapes, CDs, and of course, books and images and whatnot, were all flooding in. Piles of DIY magazines provided knowledge, while old newpapers had inspired the London Weekly, a paper that reported on all the news it could get its reporters' hands on, as well as the Global Chronicle, which did the same, but claimed superiority because of its name. The artifacts were of special interest; bevel gears, quartz vibration watches, diamond saws; all these were being rediscovered. The city's industry was growing like mushrooms on a damp day.

[Sebtopiaris]

A merchant ran up to them,
"Hey! Maybe we will send our boats to join yours, and so we have a fleet that goes from London to Kent one day, then Kent to London the next? That would protect us from pirates! We could start today? What do you say?"
The merchants were excited about this; money could be made, and money was good. It was capital in the industrial city of London.

The captain turned around to see the merchant, and he looked like a nice guy. " Of course you can", said the captain cheerfully ," you can tag along with us if you like." He shook the Londoner's hand and both of the merchant groups, one from London and one from Kent, packed their things and prepared to leave.

To the United Councils of Kent,
We write to you, yet again, about a different economic matter. We were wondering if you would agree to adopt the pound, minted by us, as your currency. We would change the coin to be rather more generic, as well as let you have an equal say in its design, pricing, even future names and subdivisions. This would create a joint economic zone, as well as help replace the primitive barter system, and improve the efficiency of both of our lands. Would this be a deal?
From the LISC

To the LISC:
Our government has been thinking about doing this before you sent this letter, and sending it just shows your approval of the idea. Changing our currency will be a great leap forward not just for merchants and traders, but for all the citizens of Kent and London. We will happily change our currency.
From the United Councils of Kent.

Dover, Kent
The loud noises of machinery and tools came from an old warehouse. It had been abandoned for as long as anybody could remember, and now it was being made into a coin mint that produced London coins. This would allow London coins to become the currency of Kent, making trade smoother and replacing the primitive bartering system.

[Alleniana]

A merchant ran up to them,
"Hey! Maybe we will send our boats to join yours, and so we have a fleet that goes from London to Kent one day, then Kent to London the next? That would protect us from pirates! We could start today? What do you say?"
The merchants were excited about this; money could be made, and money was good. It was capital in the industrial city of London.

The captain turned around to see the merchant, and he looked like a nice guy. " Of course you can", said the captain cheerfully ," you can tag along with us if you like." He shook the Londoner's hand and both of the merchant groups, one from London and one from Kent, packed their things and prepared to leave.

To the United Councils of Kent,
We write to you, yet again, about a different economic matter. We were wondering if you would agree to adopt the pound, minted by us, as your currency. We would change the coin to be rather more generic, as well as let you have an equal say in its design, pricing, even future names and subdivisions. This would create a joint economic zone, as well as help replace the primitive barter system, and improve the efficiency of both of our lands. Would this be a deal?
From the LISC

To the LISC:
Our government has been thinking about doing this before you sent this letter, and sending it just shows your approval of the idea. Changing our currency will be a great leap forward not just for merchants and traders, but for all the citizens of Kent and London. We will happily change our currency.
From the United Councils of Kent.

Dover, Kent
The loud noises of machinery and tools came from an old warehouse. It had been abandoned for as long as anybody could remember, and now it was being made into a coin mint that produced London coins. This would allow London coins to become the currency of Kent, making trade smoother and replacing the primitive bartering system.

Eastern Thames
The fleet of merchant ships set off; in reality, only a few of them, but they were all loaded. They all also bore a few people aboard, some sailors, some fighters, some both, and some neither, like the cabin boys and paying passengers. The few guns on board would hopefully defend them from any pirates, but such a short voyage on the "open" sea hopefully would not have too many corsairs, preferably none. On board one was bearing some large pieces of machinery; they were the official equipment used to mint pounds. Kent would need them.
Northern London
He saw some figures, armed, waddling towards him. They looked dirty, unkempt, and dangerous. He shouted,
"Hail! Who are you, there?"
They did not answer, but a few seconds later, some bullets sprayed past him, and he heard a shout. He aimed his rifle once, twice, thrice, taking them down one by one. They fled, and he climbed down from his watchtower. Something was going on in Hertfordshire. He collected the weapons, and prepared to relay this odd piece of news back to the government, busy implementing taxes.

[The Nation of Hay]

University of Hertfordshire

General walked straight towards colonel, putting his gun in nearby chair but close enough to grab it if needed as he questioned "Colonel, I assume you are not from this county so which government do you represent", in a tone that would almost suggest he was unaware of the situation.

"I am, as you say, not from here, General Rippeon. I'm Colonel Adam Douglas, I am in command of the band of men and women, sent from New Cambridge to reclaim this territory," Colonel Douglas replied. He would rather not start a fight, and was planning on coming up with a compromise.

"Cambridge you say", general replied with a slight smile before continuing "I think someone higher up in chain arranged something about our universities. Lets see if we can arrange a compromise here, since I was sent by president to enforce the petition we received from the residents" as he placed a copy of petition showing number of signatures, mostly distributed on west of A1 road before continuing "and of course, secure the knowledge stored in this university for benefit of humanity".

Colonel Douglas had heard briefly of the agreement with the people of Oxfordshire, and had decided it was a good thing he hadn't ordered his men to open fire. He read the petition and explained to the General about his hidden men before ordering them to come out. He counted the total amount of soldiers in the area before saying, "Hmm. It looks like we have - what - 70 men between us? Perhaps we should deal with the uncivilized ruffians in the area with all the soldiers we have. Then, seeing as your orders were to secure the land west of the A1, we divide the land between our two factions: Oxford controlling everything west of the A1, and Cambridge controlling everyting east."

General considered waving his hand to call the person he ordered to shoot colonel however dismissed this, primarily because there was no such hand signals and he didn't want to get the soldier confused with order to shoot, blowing Colonels head probably would not be good for the negotiations. Of course, words could be used but that wasn't standard protocol in the republic, like rations words were not something to be wasted.
General nodded as he said "that sounds agreeable to me", he said as he paused to look at map of Herfordshire "we should have single force going around to all the areas to clear up the gangs, where do you suggest we start with?"

The Colonel replied, "Well, we should start by clearing out the area around the university. Then we should go up and down the major highways in the area. Then we should just go through the smaller communities, wiping out any gangs that remain."

General nodded as he heard the suggestion as he remarked "I agree, clear ten kilometre radius around university before five", as he glanced at the wall clock to see it was three in the morning "we have two hours so one and half to clear everyone and fifteen to set up guard towers and patrols?"

The Colonel thought this was a good idea, and was satisfied with the discussion. He replied, "That sounds good to me. Hopefully this will lead to more peaceful meetings like this in the future." With that, the conversation was done. The men both stood up and gave their orders.

General waved his hand to call one of his men to give the order and men started to assemble and carry out the order before he turned around to Colonel saying "meanwhile, this should be our command post. I suggest flying our respective national banners at equal heights above the university and set up some temporary edicts till we restore this region."

"That sounds agreeable," Colonel Douglas agreed, "should we pool our supplies and ammunition here as well? This may take a while, and having a grasp on what we have and need could be useful. I also suggest we report this to our superiors back in our own cities, and request additional supplies."

"I agree with that, if we are establishing united command we should have united supplies depot. If we have anything remaining we split it up half. I dont need to contact superiors, supply round with reinforcements is scheduled at dawn". He paused to think before continuing, "in edict, in addition to expected no murder, theft etcetera, we should also include having to hand in weapons and curfew from ten in night to six in morning."

Interim Edict for County of Hertfordshire
Issued by: United Command; representatives of Republic of Oxfordshire and Aristocratic Oligarchy of New Cambridge

For the protection of the law, order and human life in transitional stage of county of Hertfordshire, certain laws have been instituted by authority of the united command with immediate effect in county of Hertfordshire. These laws will remain in effect until suspended by a stable and permanent command & control structure which will be established as soon as possible. Violations of any of these laws will be considered a crime and proportionate reprimand will be issued by an individuals drafted as judicial authorities by united command.
All killing is forbidden unless authorised by united command or those it has designated.
Taking objects that does not belong to you is forbidden unless authorised by united command or those it has designated.
Trading of any items for any gain, material or otherwise is forbidden unless authorised by united command or those it has designated.
Owning any form of weapon with sole exception of knives kept at home for purpose of cooking is forbidden unless authorised explicitly by commanders of united command.
All weapons which do not fall under aforementioned clause must be handed over to united command or its representatives.
Residents are to stay in their homes between 22:00 and 06:00 unless there is a medical emergency.
Residents are not to be be within ten kilometres of University of Hertfordshire at any time for any reason unless they are escorted by representatives of united command at all times.
Membership of any gangs, tribes, families or any other organised group by residents is forbidden.
Any resident members of aforementioned groups are to surrender their memberships with immediate effect.
Any one suspected of violating this edict are to be reported to united command or its representatives immediately and failure to do so will be considered a crime in its own right.
Those who violate this edict or are suspected of thereof are not to be given food, water, shelter or any other assistance by any residents for any reason and doing so will be considered a crime in its own right.

[Alleniana]

NPC: Hertfordshire
"We won't, we can't let them trespass any longer! For too long, they had crushed our lands beneath their feet, and they kill our brethren. We attack!"
His gang, a rowdy crowd, cheered and shouted at this. They were slightly surprised at the immediacy of his next words,
"Men, gather your weapons! We are going on a hunt!"
His gang, the largest in Hertfordshite, began to arm themselves, putting on their armor, mostly bullet-proof vests raided from police, picking up riot shields, logs, pistols and even airguns, as well as their Molotov cocktails they had created. One man, after speaking with the leader privately, went off, and later, as the gang moved along the dark road, returned with several other men. They soon came to their motor vehicle storage. They piled in. 9 vans and minibuses, filled with nearly a hundred fighters. Along the way, they picked up a few more. This was one cause that they could all get behind, despite the feuding that normally went on.

In the dark of night, the makeshift towers around the university glared brightly, and they could see patrols. They began talking about their plan, and then split up. Two vehicles went left, two went right, and 5 stayed in the centre.

In the centre of the road, 5 vehicles zoomed forwards. They began spraying bullets out the windows at the guard towers and shooting at the patrols, which they whizzed past the lines of where they didn't hit. After coming nearer, the 4 on the flanks did the same; they were outflanking, and they shot at the fleeing and reinforcing, stopping at the boundary to use thier confusion and shock to kill anybody comign close. The attack had begun.

[Great Nepal]

Squad 891
On the perimeter
Lieutenant Alexandria was in command of the squad, with orders to patrol what was named "sector 453", about half kilometre long strip of land it was a section of the northern perimeter as the crack of gun was heard, it wasn't too loud but I suppose that was the training acting up. If it was smell of gunpowder or the sound of gun unlocking it makes every trained personnel jump, she screamed "condition red", causing the entire squad to seek cover as the bullets sprayed through, hitting one of the sergeant who wasn't as quick most certainly due to lower number of hours spent in training, in his leg. Something lieutenant ignored as she pressed button on her walkie talkie as she spoke "109, code red, five mechanised hostile, requesting reinforcements, 109 over" as she aimed at the driver of lead vehicle while she stated "eagle". It was one of tactics developed not by command but by troops to avoid targeting same targets, the person who called eagle would target the lead target while the second in command would target the target behind the lead one, third one would target the third target and so on until it repeats.

Back in command, General Douglas had received the alert as he shouted so that his men could hear him clearly through walki-takie "its code red, code red conformed in 453, I repeat four-five-three" as he walked over to colonel Adam to inform him, "I have received conformation that we are under attack, you might want to implement appropriate procedures" before walking back towards his men all of whom had woken up and got on their uniforms as he said "implement albion" before grabbing his combat gear and heading up to the roof with about 20 men to man additional posts to see the attackers and open fire as soon as they were in visible range when Major Aman spotted a convoy heading towards the university exclaiming "there in section 102" as five binoculars including one of general turned towards two vehicles as he said "that is conformed hostile", not necessarily due to the markings but simply because albion was supposed to have been implemented, which means any friendly approaching command would need to have said so. Failure to do so, meant they were assumed hostile until proven otherwise, standard protocol. General shouted "they are attempting flank" as he raised his hand towards the right instructing "hold fire unless they move off course to section 91. When they fall underground, take out all but the commander" before turning towards the left group "keep an eye out, there should be attack coming from that side, we haven't managed to install similar trap there so when you see any thing move unless that is cleared friendly, fire at will".

Meanwhile thirty men commanded by second in command, Jessie got on the pick up trucks while some manned the machine guns standing behind the drivers as the convoy raced towards section 453 to relieve the squad.

[Alleniana]

Squad 891
On the perimeter
Lieutenant Alexandria was in command of the squad, with orders to patrol what was named "sector 453", about half kilometre long strip of land it was a section of the northern perimeter as the crack of gun was heard, it wasn't too loud but I suppose that was the training acting up. If it was smell of gunpowder or the sound of gun unlocking it makes every trained personnel jump, she screamed "condition red", causing the entire squad to seek cover as the bullets sprayed through, hitting one of the sergeant who wasn't as quick most certainly due to lower number of hours spent in training, in his leg. Something lieutenant ignored as she pressed button on her walkie talkie as she spoke "109, code red, five mechanised hostile, requesting reinforcements, 109 over" as she aimed at the driver of lead vehicle while she stated "eagle". It was one of tactics developed not by command but by troops to avoid targeting same targets, the person who called eagle would target the lead target while the second in command would target the target behind the lead one, third one would target the third target and so on until it repeats.

Back in command, General Douglas had received the alert as he shouted so that his men could hear him clearly through walki-takie "its code red, code red conformed in 453, I repeat four-five-three" as he walked over to colonel Adam to inform him, "I have received conformation that we are under attack, you might want to implement appropriate procedures" before walking back towards his men all of whom had woken up and got on their uniforms as he said "implement albion" before grabbing his combat gear and heading up to the roof with about 20 men to man additional posts to see the attackers and open fire as soon as they were in visible range when Major Aman spotted a convoy heading towards the university exclaiming "there in section 102" as five binoculars including one of general turned towards two vehicles as he said "that is conformed hostile", not necessarily due to the markings but simply because albion was supposed to have been implemented, which means any friendly approaching command would need to have said so. Failure to do so, meant they were assumed hostile until proven otherwise, standard protocol. General shouted "they are attempting flank" as he raised his hand towards the right instructing "hold fire unless they move off course to section 91. When they fall underground, take out all but the commander" before turning towards the left group "keep an eye out, there should be attack coming from that side, we haven't managed to install similar trap there so when you see any thing move unless that is cleared friendly, fire at will".

Meanwhile thirty men commanded by second in command, Jessie got on the pick up trucks while some manned the machine guns standing behind the drivers as the convoy raced towards section 453 to relieve the squad.

The men on their vehicles, swerving about and shooting wildly but much more accurately than most (they were experienced in drive-by shootings; the Hertfordshire gangs often used it against the Essex thugs) continued, hoping to ram into the building. The two vehicles on the flanks of the 5 swerved off, curving to hit the flimsy watch towers. As they hit them, the people jumped out and began fighting on foot, running about and shooting while the lead 3 continued, firing and throwing Molotov cocktails to confuse, ready to hit the university and burn it down, hopefully. All of them, however, took a casualty or two from the enemy fire.

On the flanks, they got out, using the many many ruins and their rides as cover, shooting at anyone they saw. One even planted an explosive charge at the bottom of a nearby tower, in he dead zone. They didn't appear to be being retaliated as badly as the others, but they too were taking hits.

Meanwhile, with all this commotion, the bandits who had inhabited the university before they had fled from the invaders saw the attack; they were living in a cave, and they were beginning to starve. Now, they saw an opportunity to get back, and fight. They pulled our their guns; nowhere near as good as the other big gangs, though one had a heavy machine gun, and rushed forward. Sneaking, due to the heat of battle, they found a dip in the ground. They set up the machine gun and began firing its heavy rounds into the defenders of the university.

[Azaflaza]

After entering the small province during sunset, it was under the cover of darkness by the time they came in contact with the first gang. Sleeping in their tents and huts, they had no idea that just a mile away the vehicles stopped and the soldiers got off. They snuck up to the camp, avoiding the gaze of watch men. Although they were armed with guns it was best to kill as many as possible silently so there's less to deal with when the alarm is raised. They took out their knives, got behind the first set of guards and shanked them in the neck. The same process was repeated across the camp for every set of watchmen.