The Sword of Damocles (Attn: Kraven, Gholgoth, Closed)

by **Vetalia** » Fri Sep 05, 2014 8:48 pm

OOC: I assume the events resulting in the Vivicide occurred in the late 1990s.

Kalograd, Praetorial Bunker

"Continue the Librium drip and monitor his status. Call my extension if complications arise." The Chief Doctor for the Praetor extinguished his cigarette and walked out of the room where his main patient was going through hell. The Praetor, sedated and restrained, dreamed...

Vetalia City, June 1999

The Praetor blinked at the bright summer sun, trying to orient himself. He knew that he was in Vetalia City, its unimaginable wealth was hard to forget, but it was off...the Turov Tower, the Melnikov Bridge, where were they? Stumbling along a commercial street near the bay, he came before an enormous billboard. On one side it was a map of Vetalia comprising lands he only remembered from his early days at Belinsky Paper. Vetalian Tornus, Cazelia, Zolotoi, New Vetalia, the list went on...strange. Various images illustrated the benefits of Vetalian rule, whether building highways and factories or teaching people to read or welcoming the oppressed to freedom in Vetalia.

The propaganda didn't mention that the people were mostly fleeing from Londinian brutality in its colonies, many sacrificing their lives in attempts to cross the border hoping to be saved by Vetalia. The Vetalian border guards were adamant in their defense of those seeking asylum, often coming into conflict with Londinian slavers seeking repatriation of their slaves, often to the point of bloodshed. Slavery was, (and still is) so hated a vice in Vetalia that the Constitution of the Republic of Vetalia guarantees freedom to any slave who sets foot on Vetalian soil, even for a moment, regardless of nationality. Despite the mutual friendship between the two peoples, summarized in the bilingual Russian-Volscian poem "Vetalian, Londinian, Two Good Friends", the issue of Londinian tolerance for slavery and brutality towards conquered peoples were a sore point.

Regardless, the other side of the billboard...what he saw warmed his heart. A massive portrait of Flavia Davidson and Viktor Kosyachenko shaking hands with a backdrop of Vetalian prosperity...food, machinery, factories, all heading East to aid the Londinians. The slogan said We shall defend our truest and most loyal ally and friend, British Londinium whatever the cost may be.

Out in the distance, a massive fleet was on the move, the largest he had ever seen. It was the Vetalian Fifth Fleet, the "Pride of Vetalia". The Davidson-class battleships led followed by the carriers, destroyers and cruisers. They were sailing east, towards Victoria. That's odd, the Fifth was sunk by the Crimm in 1999 the Praetor thought.

Two Londinian soldiers stood smoking a cigarette along with a Vetalian seaman, chatting and laughing, seeing him they invited him over for a smoke. He walked over to talk to them but halted when the tremendous roar filled the air...

Hell had arrived in Vetalia. Kinetic weapons fired from orbit by the Crimm destroyed the Fifth Fleet, leaving it a burning mass of sinking wreckage. Then overhead he heard another roar...no, oh God no not those, Jesus Christ not those, please God no he prayed as the missiles streaked across the sky.

His prayer went unanswered. Vetalia had launched its biological weapons against the Crimm , a deadly cocktail of bacteria and viruses...millions, even billions would die in the days to come as the Vetalian superbugs worked their way through the civilians of the Crimm Empire. Influenza, typhoid fever, brucellosis, cholera...all rained down on the people that day.

by **Dephire** » Wed Sep 10, 2014 4:25 pm

"Hello and good day to you!" Siegfried's voice carried a cheerful tune as he dismounted from his chopper. Several men and women were poking their heads from behind crates, vehicles, and corners. He noticed their rifles aimed at his chest and head and rose his hands up. "Woah! Careful now. I am wanting to help in the taking back of our lands! See?" He dusted off his Vetalian insignia, "I am a veteran of the Vetalian Army! Please, I want to help!"

Siegfried Hansolft, formerly known as Ki'lan of Dephire, stood in front of a small resistance checkpoint. He searched the area for the past few days and was finally successful in finding reliable information on their whereabouts. Now, with several rifles pointed at him, he pleaded to join their cause. Siegfried looked exactly the part he was trying to portray, an ex-military man just trying to protect the country he once served. Sheathed to his back was a sword of unknown design. To each hip a fifty caliber semi-automatic pistol rested in their holsters, with each having a Vetalian emblem on the handles. His appearance was rugged and battered, but those of the resistance were skeptical of his sudden appearance.

"That bike of yours... I have never seen it from around here. It is Dephirian. What's an ex-soldier such as yourself doing with a Dephirian bike?" One of the members yelled out. Siegfried could tell the voice belonged to a young man, probably mid-to-late teens.

"Shut it, Frederick, that man's a veteran!"

"I don't give two shits what he says he is. Something isn't right about this."

Siegfried chuckled, "Oh, that old thing?" He turned to the bike, giving it a slight nod. "It was a gift when I went overseas. She's awfully fast and the engine roars nicely."

"The guns means it was a military grade attack chopper. Who would give that away as a gift?"

"Ah, you are very perceptive! The thing was a heap of junk. In fact, the Dephirians stopped using the attack choppers about fifteen years ago. Most were scrapped, but some collectors of old military antiques were allowed to keep some around. This one just so happened to be worthless to the previous owner. Anyway, the name is Colin. Can we at least bunk with you kind folks for a week or so? I will even share some of my knowledge about the area with you as sort of a payment." Siegfried lowered his hands and smiled.

"No! You can get your bike and-" The boy grunted while being shoved out of the way of another gentleman, this one closer to Ki'lan's age.

"Sorry for his rudeness, Colin was it?" The man stepped forward. "We would be glad to take you in. Your military skills could be of use to us. Welcome to the resistance."

by **Havensky** » Sat Sep 13, 2014 11:42 am

Damn the Machine

The Vetalian Palace
Vetalia City, Vetalia

Harkin looked up to spot the three bright red Skyan helijets break through the clouds overhead and rotate their twin 30mm chaingun towards the Kraven heavy battle tank.

Undeterred, Harkin gave the order to round up more civilians.

Inside, Queen Jessica Heart had removed her crown. It had been specially built for one specific purpose. To block the Kraven Relay. Decades ago, the Reich had captured her during her time as a nurse aboard a humanitarian vessel. They had tortured her. They had ripped the bones from her body. They had installed a relay device in her skull. All of this had been an attempt to turn her into some sort of super-soldier. However, the procedure had backfired.

Not only had the Reich been unable to control her, they had given her a weapon against those controlled by the relay.

Jessica had only used this ability on rare occasions. It was dangerous and it left her vulnerable. However, Harkin had upped the stakes. It would have to be done.

Outside the palace, the Capitol Police office who had questioned Harkin before began to act...abnormally.

His head twitched to and fro for a moment and then he unholstered his weapon. The Capitol Police officer’s head turned slowly towards Harkin. He then raised his desert eagle to Harkin’s head.

”Dorner, was that really necessary??”, in a peculiarly warm voice for a Capitol Police Officer.

Harkin snapped back, ”HOW DARE YOU USE MY FIRST NAME 432!”

Harkin stopped a moment as he stared into the barrel of the .50 caliber pistol. The Capitol Police officer tilted his head.

"But Dorner, if you insist on calling me “Jessica” then I will insist on calling you by your first name. And really, so few Kravenites have first names… I thought you’d like to see it used more. However, Unterstumfuher… if you want me to use your full title - then you’ll need to give me the proper respect in calling me by my title… QUEEN Jessica Heart of the Brave House of Ironwing - GOTHIC LORD - Secretary of State of the Skybound Republic of Havensky and Sovereign of Gothic Havensky. It’s quite a mouthful, which as I would imagine, would cut into your precious deadline Dorner.”

The officer made a ‘quote marks’ motion with his hands as he spoke the words ‘deadline.’ He looked very much like a puppet on a string. Harkin had been briefed about Jessica Heart’s relay implant and her ability to control the relay at short distances. However, seeing it in person...was unnatural..even by Kraven standards. Harkin must have waited a bit when thinking because the officer spoke again.

”Or, as a compromise, you can say ma’am and I can say sir. How’s that sound? You aren't controlled by the relay… I can sense that… so you do have some wiggle-room. Or will the other officers listening to the relay shoot you in the face at the slightest sign of politeness towards me?”

The possessed officer returned the pistol to a position which if fired would turn Harkin’s head into mush.

"Now then, you order your troops to cease at once. Otherwise, they will have to find a new officer. I realize you don’t value human life at all, but perhaps you’ll place a higher value on your own?"

“Incorrect, Jessica… If you shoot me, the Capitol Police will not only level the Palace, but they will systematically slaughter everyone in the surrounding area, you would be starting a blood bath.. “

”Who is to say you aren't going to do that anyway? You’ve already killed ten civilians just in the last minute. If you’re going to level the palace, I’d consider sending you to hell as condolence prize.”

“I have my orders to bring in the Vetalian Leadership, it is you who killed those ten civilians by not complying, if The Capitol Police take over the operation, they will consider the Leadership a lost cause and instead will slaughter everyone, installing a Capitol Police Officer as a Regional Overseer for Vetalia Proper, trust me when I say, I am the better option...”

”You’ve already executed the Overseer for the Vetalian peninsula. I believe this occurred about the same time you rolled your tank out here. You’re better options seems to have a short shelf life Lower-sturm-fuhrer…”

“Then shoot me Jessica, and let the Capitol Police take over the Operation… prove me right..”

"How do you know they havn’t taken over already? I can hear the relay better than you can Dorner… it fights back… and I can sense the feeling that they think you’ve failed. It’s not too late Dorner. You can save your immortal soul. Order your troops to disperse. Come with us instead."

“They haven’t shot me… so I haven’t failed yet…” Dorner spoke a few words into his radio, it sounded just like cursing but didn’t make any sense.

by **Vetalia** » Sun Sep 14, 2014 5:52 pm

OOC: We may need to retcon previous posts
The Sacred War

Praetorial Palace
Vetalia City, Vetalia

Explosions shook the walls of the Presidium, the most secure part of the Praetorial Palace. Even in the grimmest of circumstances it retained the same wealth and extravagance of the rest of the palace, with richly decorated walls and a huge mural of Vetalia on the ceiling. Paintings of every Praetor since the Revolution lined the walls, all staring at the group huddled below.

The handful of Praetorian Guards with them looked nervously at each other after each explosion.

Awaiting evacuation were the Praetor and his doctor, still on his librium drip, the Vice Praetor and his wife, the ten Proconsuls of the Proconsular Council, Lydia the Praetorial Secretary and a few dozen palace staff. Lydia sat cross-legged, staring icily at the supine Praetor. She pulled a cigarette from her pack, lit it and was soon followed by most of the assembled. The assembled smoked silently.

A ragged looking Praetorian Guard burst through the door. "Praetor, the outer parts of the Palace will be breached within minutes! The Reich has attacked the Palace in force!" The guard looked toward the Praetor lying on the floor and briefly despaired before the Vice Praetor stood up. "Are the emergency lines still open?"

"Yessir, they're too deep for anyone to cut."
"Bring a phone, run like hell, damnit!" The ragged man disappeared.

Minutes ticked by with the explosions growing closer, the Vice Praetor waiting anxiously before the soldier returned, bloodied and covered in soot. "Sir, the outer palace has been breached, we're doing all we can to hold out...it won't take a lot longer to breach the inner"

"Are the lines still open?"
"Yessir"
"What languages do you speak?"
"Vetalian* and English, sir."
"Good, you help me then. Anyone speak Volscian?"
"I do, Vice Praetor." Lydia rose from her chair and walked over to the phone.

"Good , you help me too.
What're your names?"

"Lydia Repina"
"Ivan Dernov"

"You'll get your first time on the air in Vetalian media, just follow me." The Vice Praetor picked up the phone and began to speak, handing two headsets to his newly drafted translators. The signal received would be broadcast across the Republic on all emergency stations, including the air raid system, radio and television stations and streamed online via Vetalian government websites. The translators would work on other frequencies with a fifteen minute delay. His speech began, rife with Vetalian oratorical flourishes.

"Citizens of Vetalia, I, Vice Praetor Maksim Denisov address you along with my friends Praetorial Secretary Lydia Repina, who will be translating this into the Volscian and Ivan Dernov, 1st Sargent of the 2nd Platoon Praetorian Guard who will be translating this into the English.

This is a day which will live in infamy. As I speak, the forces of the Kraven Reich have launched an assault against the Praetorial Palace in violation of both Gholgothic Law and the terms of our mutual defense pact and I have no idea how long we will last out against them. To this end, I authorize the full mobilization of the Vetalian armed forces to defend this palace. And to all Vetalians, I authorize the release of the weapons held in the armories to defend our homeland.

Although I am afraid to say it, a de facto state of war exists between Vetalia and the Reich. Considering this I, by the power vested in me as Vice Praetor, and in regency for the Praetor, and considering the scope of the crisis facing the Republic formally declare war between the Republic of Vetalia and the Kraven Reich. So help us God."

by **Dephire** » Tue Sep 16, 2014 5:22 pm

Hab Centre 06
Occupied Vetalia

The Capitol Police Officer took an unusual pleasure with the extermination of the pestilence which had stuck like a sore to the Reich's side. It was a lustful sensation that he never felt with any other activity. He pointed to one building complex, and without muttering a word, fifteen soldiers bashed in the door and forcefully escorted a few dozen people. The officer examined each person, determining their worth. He picked out a few candidates, who were moved into a large caterpillar troop transportation truck. The rest were shackled and forced to march towards the center of town. These people were determined to be in affiliation with the Resistance. Whether or not this was true is of no concern to the officer. He was the deciding factor on who died this week, and who would die on a future battlefield or laboratory. The sick and weak were disposed of on the spot, without hesitation. It was determined the effort and resources to move them, though minimal at best, was a waste of time. Those who were deemed too sick had their throats slit. Bullets were not to be wasted on such criminal scum.

"No! You cannot do this!" A woman screamed while fighting a couple of soldiers. A quick cold punch to the side of her skull silenced her cries.

The Office turned, cocking his head to the left, "I see, she would have made a nice addition to the noose." His head tilted to the right. "Such a waste of beauty."

The soldiers picked up the woman's body and tossed it in the middle of the street, joining a pile which increased in size as the day went on. By the end of the day, there would be several dozen more bodies added to the pile, to be lit ablaze.

In the town center, a large battalion of black uniformed soldiers were constructing the final act. The Capitol Police forced the members of the Resistance to march towards the square. They watched with cold, emotionless eyes as the men, women, and children shuffled in their shackles down the street. Those who cried were encouraged by the Officer. Their torture added to his exquisite pleasure. His sights were transferred through the mighty Relay to the Reichmarshall himself. Though his new master may not take in the same enjoyment that the Officer was allowed, he thought it would be appreciated to a degree most would not understand. The Officer gazed over the hundreds of captured Resistance members on their death march, eyes moving too and from.

The example we will make of this cancerous disease may bring about a new surge of fear and respect. May the next few hours be those of glory for the Reich. The Officer relayed to his master. Once I am finished with this scum, I will force Tristan's hand.

by **The Scandinvans** » Sun Sep 21, 2014 7:46 pm

The game had now been moved forward. The might of the Reich was now set to wash across the west and be met by the armies of the enemies of Kraven's last war in Milograd. This change however was not something that the Empire could be met without strengthening the imperial defenses. After all, the all consuming nature of the Reich meet only the strong stood any chance of avoiding becoming a target conquest.

With this realization Emperor Harald II had decided that immediate action was required. More security would be needed to secure the valuable slaving routes of the eastern portion of Gholgoth. New defenses must be raised. New parameters enacted to ensure the ascendancy of the Empire. New methods developed to properly contain those who would threaten the homeland.

The recent developments in Pudu had given him a chance to more thoroughly entrench the Empire's interests within the region by establishing control over the Shen Almaru and by combining it's position with Vismer would allow the Empire to effectively dominate the straits. Thus after feelers had seen the government of the islands declare their intent to preserve their ancient ways Harald had quickly decided to act and offer assistance to the islands' government.

With that said he decided to personally dictate the letter to the most recent addition to the Empire's regional plans.

by **The Scandinvans** » Fri Sep 26, 2014 1:15 pm

Imperial Declaration

Due to the ongoing tensions in Gholgoth in regards to Vetalia the Scandinvan Empire has seen fit to close the straits between Shen Almaru and Vismer to all military traffic, barring the eastern and non-aligned powers of the region, from passing through until such a time as peace can ensured. We do this to defend the fragile stability that has forged by the slaving states of the region and to ensure that we are not dragged into the wars of others.

Signed,
Imperial Steward,
Lord Erida

by **Blackhelm Confederacy** » Mon Sep 29, 2014 4:02 pm

Off the coast of Vetalia
Container Ship Philosopher

The captain of the Philosopher looked anxiously at the Vetalian shoreline as his ship moved ever closer to its destination. This man, along with the ship's crew, had been given no small sum of money to deliver their cargo to the port ahead, but this trip was very much unlike the many hundreds of other voyages that the Philosopher and her men have taken in the past. For one thing, successfully offloading their stowage would result in one of the biggest paydays any of them had ever seen. It would allow them to retire in relative comfort from a hard life on the seas, and let them live out the rest of their days eith te luxuries their new found wealth will afford them. For another, should they be caught, they had a very high likelihood that they would meet a firing squad or life in prison. And not just in Vetalia either. Should the Confederate government ever find out that these men were on a mission whose sole purpose was to undermine one of the nation's closest and oldest allies, well...things would not end well for the old sea captain.

Stacked in neat rows, well hidden within several containers on the ships deck, were hundreds, perhaps thousands of assault rifles, helmets, grenades, rocket propelled grenade launchers, and a veritable mountain of ammunition that would be able to last a small army until Armageddon. The recipients of this had made contact with a relatively shadowy figure back within the Blackhelm Confederacy, and now these tools of war were about to be offloaded into the hands of the pro-Kraven militants rapidly sprouting up in the country. What exactly would drive a person to actively support the Kraven Corporation when they lived in country as peaceful and uniquely beautiful as Vetalia was a mystery, but it was not one the captain nor the crew thought they should concern themselves with.

The captain picked up a glass of whiskey as he stood on the bridge of his ship and took in some of the dark liquid, swallowing it down before he turned to his first mate.

"Do you think we can get back home in one piece?" he asked. "If we get picked up, we are finished."

The mate nodded. "We'll be fine sir. In and out, just like we planned. Positive thinking captain, that's all ya can do"

A deep sigh followed from the captain. "For all of our sakes, I hope you are right"

by **Vetalia** » Sat Oct 18, 2014 7:06 pm

I've Told Every Little Star

Blackhelm Confederacy wrote:Off the coast of Vetalia
Container Ship Philosopher

The captain of the Philosopher looked anxiously at the Vetalian shoreline as his ship moved ever closer to its destination. This man, along with the ship's crew, had been given no small sum of money to deliver their cargo to the port ahead, but this trip was very much unlike the many hundreds of other voyages that the Philosopher and her men have taken in the past. For one thing, successfully offloading their stowage would result in one of the biggest paydays any of them had ever seen. It would allow them to retire in relative comfort from a hard life on the seas, and let them live out the rest of their days eith te luxuries their new found wealth will afford them. For another, should they be caught, they had a very high likelihood that they would meet a firing squad or life in prison. And not just in Vetalia either. Should the Confederate government ever find out that these men were on a mission whose sole purpose was to undermine one of the nation's closest and oldest allies, well...things would not end well for the old sea captain.

Stacked in neat rows, well hidden within several containers on the ships deck, were hundreds, perhaps thousands of assault rifles, helmets, grenades, rocket propelled grenade launchers, and a veritable mountain of ammunition that would be able to last a small army until Armageddon. The recipients of this had made contact with a relatively shadowy figure back within the Blackhelm Confederacy, and now these tools of war were about to be offloaded into the hands of the pro-Kraven militants rapidly sprouting up in the country. What exactly would drive a person to actively support the Kraven Corporation when they lived in country as peaceful and uniquely beautiful as Vetalia was a mystery, but it was not one the captain nor the crew thought they should concern themselves with.

The captain picked up a glass of whiskey as he stood on the bridge of his ship and took in some of the dark liquid, swallowing it down before he turned to his first mate.

"Do you think we can get back home in one piece?" he asked. "If we get picked up, we are finished."

The mate nodded. "We'll be fine sir. In and out, just like we planned. Positive thinking captain, that's all ya can do"

A deep sigh followed from the captain. "For all of our sakes, I hope you are right"

Svetogorsk, Swanner Province, Vetalia

Inspector Vasily Abramov saw the ship approach the harbor, and upon recognizing the livery he knew what they were there for. A letter from the Proconsul of Commerce had made it clear that this shipment was to go through and was to be transported via Port Authority cargo to sites across Vetalia as soon as possible. The Proconsul also made it clear in his letter that the inspector's "indiscretions" regarding pornographic materials in his possession depicting children would be forgotten as long as he cooperated.

"Maybe you love me too, oh my darling if you do..." *snap*. Vasily turned off the radio and walked out of his office as the container ship pulled into the harbor.

The Port Authority had been working on a skeleton crew since the crisis began and he was the only person on at the time aside from the unloading crew. Walking towards the now docked cargo ship, he lit a cigarette and waited for its crew to disembark.

by **Havensky** » Sun Oct 19, 2014 3:31 pm

Praetorial Palace
Vetalia City, Vetalia

Move! Move! Move!

BOOM! rata-tata-ta-ta-ta-tata BOOM!

Captain Squall and his team rushed Queen Heart to the helijet where Lt. Chispa had already powered up. Outside, the heavy battle tank took several hits from the Growlers before exploding. Meanwhile, the helijets were taking heavy fire from the machine guns loaded on the truck. Their fight was louder than the gunfire being exchanged inside the palace walls as Capitol Police had started to breach the entrance.

How many can we take with us?, Jessica asked as crew members strapped her in.

Nobody on this one ma'am - this one's just you., replied Squall.

No! I order you -

I can't!, shouted Squall to the surprise of everyone around him. Gavin Squall never raised his voice and in the midst of combat was cooler than most. Everyone around him grew quiet... the battle outside still ringing.

Orders are to evac you. We'll do what we can afterwards.

With that, Squall shut the door to the helijet and tapped it's hull twice. Chispa immediately took off. As soon as she got the helijet airborne, she switched to jet mode and hit the throttle throwing Queen Heart to the back of her seat.

Jessica's last look at the palace was it burning. Her men exchanging fire with the Capitol Police.

Once the helijet was away, Captain Squall keyed his mic.

Control, Heartbreak Six... where the hell is the Vetalian Army?

He waited...impatiently.

Drone coverage shows they're 1 click away

Squall cursed under his breath. The Vetalian Army should have been here an hour ago. They had allowed their own Palace to fall and their own citizens executed. And now it had cost him the lives of his troops.

Fine - If you can reach them tell them we're headed their way with whomever we can grab. HURK! SPIKE! Two wall formations, civilians in the middle - whomever can walk. Let's move!

* * * * *

High Council Chambers
Crystal City, Havensky

Half a world away, Prime Minister Elizabeth Artemis and High Executor Vincent Profecta watched the events unfold on screens inside the capitol's situation room. Chispa's voice came over the radio.

Heartbreak Leader to Control - Lioness is away - I repeat - Lioness is away.

Elizabeth breathed a sigh of relief then asked, Where is Ironwing?

An officer responded, He's with the 95th Fleet en route to ULE City. Emperor Skragg is with them.

Recall Ironwing. Atticus is more than capable and we need him secure. Contact Briska and they can coordinate logistics with Skragg - with our apologies., ordered Artemis.

But, he's King in Gothic Havensky? Can we do that?

The King is answerable to the People - I was elected by the People. I outrank him and I'm pulling rank. Besides, the High Executor agrees.

Vincent Profecta simply nodded, not wishing to argue with the heated Prime Minister.

Admiral Q! Out in front!

Admiral Quintilian, head of Stars and Signals Command, stood up nervously.

Prime Minister Artemis glared at him.

The Vetalian Army was late to arrive. I want to know why! If a capper was killing off my citizens one by one in Crystal City, we'd be scraping his dead and mangled bloody body off the concrete faster than you can say can say 'Quintilian!' Something smells. Something that's costing us lives!

Vincent cautiously replied, Calm down Elizabeth..

Look at the facts! Either the Vetalians are spineless cowards who won't even fight to save themselves OR there's treachery and this attack on the palace is by design. This whole episode stinks!

Admiral Quintilian saluted, I'll have my staff get to work immediately. Excuse me.

He saluted and hurried out of the room. The Prime Minister turned back to the screen showing the battle.

God damn cappers...

by **Havensky** » Wed Oct 29, 2014 8:53 pm

Moon Trance

0400 Hours Local Time
Nyx Residential Tower
Crystal City, Havensky
Texas

What am I missing?

Dubstep violin music was playing in the background as Mathias Willow stared out his window inside one of the taller towers of Crystal City. The lights of the city providing a backlight against his markings on the glass.

Names. Timelines. Places.

Mathias twirled the marker in his hand before placing it behind his ear. Mathias was a tall slender man in his thirties with dark curly unkempt hair. Mathias hadn't shaved in three days. Crumpled cans of energy drinks littered his office floor.

He picked up the pen from his ear and threw it against the glass.

COME ON! THINK, he shouted in frustration before moving to lay down on the floor. Above him on the ceiling a map of Gholgoth was being projected. Various points of interest the Stars and Signals Command had been tracking were being displayed like little red stars.

Mathias turned his head.

They missed their exit.

Mathias got up from the floor and craned his head to look at the ceiling on the map.

The Blackhelm ship...always delivers...always on time..., he muttered to himself pointing at the red dot now moving north past the Fortress Contiennent.

Hey, Minerva...

Yes Agent Willow?, asked the computerized voice.

What is the destination of ship designated 'alpha alpha five three eight'?

In the previous conflict, agents from Stars and Signals Command had infiltrated a Blackhelm Confederacy vessel and installed an advanced AI into their system. The AI was originally designed to sabotage the engine systems then spread to other vessels in an effort to stop the flow of oil to the Kraven Reich. It had worked even better than the Skyans had hoped. Even though the virus had long since passed their systems, the Skyans routinely hacked into Griffencrest's systems in order to get a sense of Kraven's logistical needs. As the Reich's activity's had increased, the computer networks of the Blackhelm Confederacy were under constant surveillance from the the Skyan's Stars and Signals Command.

Target destination unknown. AA538 has not registered with the Griffencrest Corporation or the Confederacy.

What? Bullshit! They're a dictatorship - They always know... why would Kraven bother with the secrecy...they're partners... so long as the....wait.... WAIIIIT!

Mathias ran over to the console and began typing furiously.

This isn't Kraven's shipment...it's somebody else's... Minerva.. can you get access to AA538's systems?

Affirmative. Please wait while we process this request.

A few hours later, Mathias was rapidly scrolled through all available options. The ship had security cameras. Security cameras in the cargo hold.

My gods... they arn't delivering oil....this is a death package.... MINERVA! Contact Q! Priority Code One!

* * * * *

Prime Minister Elizabeth Artemis was sleeping on a cot inside Skyan High Council Chambers. She could have simply gone back to her residency, but she wanted to be close to game board. A Skyan Legionary, just a private, approached her hesitantly.

Ma'am.....ma'am...., he started to say quietly.

The Legionary hesitated.

Madam Prime Minister...there's a development...ma'am....ma'am..

Elizabeth turned over in the cot and opened one eye towards the young soldier.

Private. A word of advice. If it's important enough to wake me then it's important to say it loudly. Don't be scared. It's unbecoming of a Skyan Legionnaire.

The armor hid it, but at that moment the Legionare simply gulped. Elizabeth rose from the cot and grabbed her glasses.

Now then, what's happened?

Admiral Quintilian reports that there is a vessel in the Gothic Sea that is smuggling arms to Vetalia to Reich sympathizers. Their estimate indicates that if the shipment is allowed to proceed that these elements may overthrow the current government. Our ambassador at the Gothic Summit reports that pro-Kraven elements are representing them.

Elizabeth Artemis looked up at the private through her glasses. She stood up and picked up her phone.

Thank you soldier. Inform the High Executor and other members of the council that we have an action plan meeting in five minutes. If there is this much deception and betrayal in the Vetalian government, then we must consider the cause lost. I assume that Q has a plan. We may need it.

by **Dephire** » Thu Oct 30, 2014 5:31 pm

"All personnel on board, Captain?" Dimitri 'Wilhelm' Coronado grasped the shoulder of Captain Howard Reynolds, who was sitting in the pilot's chair doing his preflight inspections. They were in the cockpit of a customized troop transportation aircraft fitted for the travel of high ranking officers during wartime. This particular flight would be a journey home.
"Aye, General. We will be airborne momentarily." Reynolds replied.
"Excellent. Dephire is far from beautiful, but she is home." He patted the pilot on the back before exiting the cockpit. The general looked down the cabin, taking in the hundred or so fellow countrymen and their families settling down in their seats. Towards the back of the cabin were several privacy compartments for people to sleep in. There was another deck as well with more luxurious rooms. Many of the Dephirians he came across seemed very eager to get back home after a six month 'vacation'. He saw the joy in their faces. Their job in Citadel City has come to a conclusion.
"Preflight checks have concluded. Please take your seats and we will be on our way. We will be entering Dephirian airspace in approximately five hours, landing at Valkyrie Air Force Base in Hammerfest. Weather at destination is expected to be a chilly ten degrees below zero Fahrenheit with high winds. I hope you enjoy your flight!"
"Fantastic, I left my coat with the rest of my luggage in the cargo hold." Wilhelm muttered under his breath. He also left his powered suit down below. He sighed, accepting his mistake, before taking a seat in his luxury cabin. A small bottle of whiskey and a glass was set out for him. He poured himself some of the whiskey, downing it as the plane started to taxi. A few more minutes passed before the large jet took off the runway. Wilhelm leaned back in his seat and dozed off.
=-=
"Before I return to the capitol, I have a few gifts for you." Wilhelm's attitude on his last day in Citadel City seemed abnormally happy.
Tristan's left eyebrow raised as his curiosity peaked. "Oh, and what might that be?" The two had just left their meeting with Ironwing and his council. He was still dressed in a light tan blazer and pants with white shirt. He looked far from the typical dreary attire of the Fortress Continent, almost as if he was starting to go native. He looked almost too cheery for Southwest Gholgoth.
"Well, meet me in the technology research laboratory. One gift is in there. The other will be waiting for your return home. Give us about fifteen minutes to make all of the preparations and finishing touches." Wilhelm let out an excited manly squeek of excitement. "This is going to be great!"
=-=
A hard rattle of the plane woke the Godsend from his nap.
"This is the captain speaking. We are experiencing moderate to heavy turbulence from a strong storm cell to the south of us. The event should subside here shortly. On a positive note, you should be able to see our armada in the distance to the north."
Wilhelm looked out the window and saw hundreds of small lines that must have been several miles long each. At least, that was how he perceived the Imperial Armada from this height. They were moving towards the north to complete the Dephirian blockade to ensure no navy posed a threat to Havensky until they were ready to defend themselves. The general wondered how the armada would fare against the Kraven Reich should the time ever come. However, he closed his eyes and returned to the land of dreams.
=-=
"Okay, General Wilhelm, I am here." Tristan looked around. He saw his general standing next to a large metal container, roughly eight feet in height. "So, what is in the crate?"
"It is your power armor." Glitch responded from behind the crate. Her hair was tied back and she was typing away on a tablet.
"I thought the armor you designed and provided me during training was my armor." Tristan glided his fingers over the metal container.
"That antique? No, this is the real set. A joint design between Lady Raven and myself." Wilhelm walked in from a side door. "No offense, my lady."
"No offense taken, Dimitri." Glitch responded.
The general stepped up to the container and pushed a silver button on the side of the container. A thin line, vertical line appeared on the front of the container. The line widened as the container opened up revealing a suit unlike anything the young emperor had ever seen. His new suit of powered armor was metallic black manufactured to resemble scales. On the front of the torso was a bright red dragon. Set on a pedestal beside the armor was a black dragon helmet with red visor. Tristan's twin swords were sheathed on either side of the suit, and the Dirge was on the back wall of the container.
"Um, may I ask you this... What is with the dragon theme?" Tristan's question appeared to have stung his general.
"Darius would not shut up about giving you a suit that 'looked totally badass'." Glitch's annoyance with the man could clearly be heard in her tone of voice. "This was the only design that would shut him up. We based this 'dragon' design on how Lord Ironwing described his trip to Hell's Gate paired with stories of the past and the overall atmosphere of Gholgoth. Our panel of designers felt that this is the most Gothic power armor there could ever be. Also, off the record, it came out as 'totally badass'. Just do not let that buffoon know I said that."
"Well? What do you think?" The Godsend General was eager to know his lord's judgement.
"I mean, it looks fantastic. Random, but very nice." Tristan stepped up to the suit. "What is the name of this beautiful piece of art?"
"This is the Titan Class Alpha. The 'Dragon Emperor' alternate edition. This suit will increase your human body's capability beyond superhuman thanks to the suit's powerhouse and one of a kind artificial intelligence. You could literally be a one man army in the TCA. It is designed, though, to primarily heighten your swordsman skill, but does a fair job with assisting the user with gun handling. The gauntlets have their own power sources to charge your main weapon. Your TCA was built so it can hold all three of your swords. I know your strength is swordplay, but we are including twin revolvers just in case."
"Wait, you mentioned it has an A.I.?" The young man interrupted.
"Yes, she is one of yours actually. One of the three Trinity Series, like Colossus." Glitch replied. "Introduce yourself, Levee."
"Hello, Emperor! I am Trinity Class artificial intelligence unit Leviathan." The voice emanated from within the helmet. It was female and had a striking resemblance to someone Tristan knew from the past. Someone he knew far too well...
"That voice... Victoria?"
=-=
"We are approaching Dephirian airspace. Arrival to Hammerfest is approximately fifteen minutes. Please return to your seats and fasten your belts."
"Ah good, only a few more hours before a good bed." Wilhelm looked out the window and noticed the massive coastal city.
=-=
"Victoria's voice was integrated into the personality of Leviathan. We thought it would help your focus and drive were you to ever go into combat again." Glitch spoke.
"I apologize if this was in any way offensive, sir." Wilhelm frowned.
"No. I thank you for being considerate of my feelings. I was just surprised was all." The young man admitted. "Any specifications I should be made aware?"
"The armor plating is a mixture of carbon steel. The joints were of carbon mesh for flexibility. The suit's power house, as implied moments ago, will increase your strength and agility. In theory, you will be faster and stronger. You will hit like a tank, and should be able to survive against one as well. The helmet's heads up display is similar to what you have been used to during testing. The Titan was a tremendous undertaking. The input your test suit provided was invaluable." Glitch concluded. "I am rather saddened that I will not see it in use."
"Thank you, Lady Raven! I will take very good care of the armor, using it only when necessary." Tristan smiled wide and surprised Glitch with an unexpected bear hug, catching her completely off-guard as she let out a very weak 'yelp'.
"Y-you are quite w-welcome, but y-your crushing my body!" She managed to squeek out.
"Oh! My apologies!" Tristan released the lady. "I am still not used to this strength. I will test it out for you over the next few weeks. The data will be yours exclusively."
"That will be much appreciated, Lord Skragg." Glitch smiled politely.
Tristan turned to his general, "Thank you, my friend. Now, go catch your plane. Say hello to my wife for me. Let me know if anything comes up."
=-=
The landing was rather uneventful. Wilhelm felt as if he was being slapped in the face as the bitter cold wind battered his exposed skin. He wrapped his arms around his torso and briskly made his way to the main terminal. Hammerfest, being nested along the mountains in northeast Dephire, is one of Dephire's coldest ports and is home to Dephire's submarine bases.
He watched the plane being unloaded, playing special attention to his belongings. His equipment was transferred to an awaiting convoy of trucks. From here, the convoy will travel to the north side of Hammerfest where they will board a train to Ghray.

by **Dephire** » Fri Oct 31, 2014 5:43 pm

The Rider’s eyes sunk to the ground. He had always assumed this was a possibility, but it hadn’t really hit him until now. He looked to the Capitol Police Officer as he approached him. By this time, the rider formerly known as Tycho Onyx knew how this little act played out.

What is your name?, asked Tycho.

”My name? The man tilted his head slightly to the right in an almost quizzical look. ”Why I am the hunter. I am Siegfried Hansolft. That name is not something you may remember me by.” He smiled smugly. ”I was a former Dephirian general by the name of Ki’lan”

Good, because when the devil asks whom I’m looking forward to seeing the most. It will be you.

Ki’lan just shrugged and prepared to turn away.

You don’t even have the decency to mock me. You don’t realize how much I’ve suffered in this life. I imagine I’ll become an unsettled spirit. You probably don’t believe in God or Hell or the very Soul. But I assure you, my immortal soul will haunt you and yours until the end of your days and on your dying day I will be there to greet you at the gates of Hell with a knife in my hand. And I will happily spend the rest of eternity punishing you for the evil you’ve done.

”Evil I have done?” The man’s head tilted to the left this time. ”Am I truly ‘evil’ for easing your pitiful existance?” He lightly slapped his own forehead. ”Although, I am curious as to why I have to explain myself to you, but since these are your last moments, and they are your last I promise you, I can spare a few moments while final preparations are taking place.” The Reich officer took a shallow breath. “You are not the only one who has suffered a terrible life. I lost my entire family, brutally murdered in front of my eyes. A Dephirian took me in, raised me to be a soldier, and then betrayed me during one of his infamous temper tantrums. Though, I cannot hold a grudge against the Reich. They perfected me. The Reich turned me into the perfect being. An exceptional balance between power and discipline.” Siegfried made his way up the platform while speaking. ”You must have me mistaken for someone who gives a damn about you or your cause. I came here to complete a task and your meddling became an annoyance.” Siegfried leaned in very close to Tycho. The subdued man could see the artificial features of the man before him, especially in the eyes. ”I am now simply getting rid of a pest. A disease. A tumor.” Tycho looked up and saw Siegfried’s face begin to flex unnaturally due to the bioengineering. ”Once you are disposed of, I will be making an example of everyone who defies my Reich!”

You think I’m the only one standing in your path don’t you? You’re a fool. I am the least worthy of an entire legion! I might fall, but there are a hundred thousand men who stand against you. They shall hunt you until the end of your days. They will not rest until there is peace. They will not stop until there is justice. And they will not yield to evil such as
you!

Siegfried stood up and moved to Tycho’s right side, looking up to the hundreds of other captured resistance members, ”Justice? Such a word has no true meaning. Its power is solely based within the perspective of the user. There is no justice, vermin. Your allies and friends will yield to our will. The Reich flows through me. I am its embodiment. A darkness shall spread to all corners of this world unlike anything ever seen in history. The glory of the Kraven Reich, of Norska, will be the envy of all. Any opposition will meet a swift execution. Resistance is futile!” He gave slight motion with his hand. The rope dropped. And Tycho’s body dropped. The air left his lungs and Tycho Onyx hung limp in the darkening sky.

by **Havensky** » Fri Oct 31, 2014 7:23 pm

The Price of Freedom

Crystal City, Havensky
Region of Texas
0500 Hours Texas Time

That....is your plan?

Elizabeth Artemis, now dressed in a dark navy suit, stared down Admiral Vincent Quintillan as she held the plans for "Operation Riechbait" in her hands.

This plan is one of the most ambitious and downright batshit insane pieces of work I've ever laid my eyes on. You're telling me that you want to take the very same ship that is smuggling arms to the pro-capper faction of the Vetalians and use it to smuggle people out.. all the while launching a major operation against a heavily fortified city swarming with cappers as a distraction?!.

Elizabeth took off her dark rimmed glasses.

This is what gets people killed. Batshit crazy stunts like this. I am fully aware that we've pulled off these things before - but only because the People of this county spend billions of credits making sure that our small army has the very best damn training and equipment possible. But that's no excuse to pull stunts like these as standard practice. It's like that Tycho Onyx... why the hell was he allowed to leave? After all he's been through that man is not combat ready. Not to mention he has a death wish. He should have never been allowed out into a combat zone like Vetalia. This country owes Tycho the benefit of a rest and time to think. It is not that man's job to save the Vetalians no matter how guilty he feels. He should have never been allowed to be there by himself.

Elizabeth...

She turned towards Vincent Profecta with an icy stare.

Fine... but Gods help me if something happens to that boy. We've given the Ironwings too much of a free hand and now it's costing us. Look at the situation....at best we get a civil war that will cost thousands of lives. At worse we get the Reich in complete power over Vetalia. And the only plan that I've been given is a some plan that's been cleared concocted by somebody who has had one too many energy drinks!

High Executor Vincent Profeta turned towards the Prime Minister.

This also provides us the best chance of extracting Staff Sergeant Onyx. Additionally, the portion of the liberation plan for Hab Centre 06 is sound. The extraction of the refugees requires minimal staffing on our part. It's a calculated risk. What's more certain is that the resistance can not hold out much longer. Already, we're getting reports of mass executions. With Kraven having made an attempt on the Queen's life, the neutrality agreement has been broken.

Elizabeth sighed and put her head in her hands.

What says the King of the Skyans?

The King puts his faith in the Legion. He has seen the plan and deems it solid.

Elizabeth took out a pen and signed the document.

Very well. Godspeed to all of us.

* * * * *

The Burdened
Dephire

Must you leave so soon?, asked General Wilhelm as Glitch packed her bag.

You're kidding right? They Reich just tried to kill Queen Heart. My place is in the Citadel.

But, you're not in the Legion anymore. You're a civilian... you don't have to be anywhere you don't want to be Lady Raven.

I know., replied Glitch softly as she zipped up her bag.

However, I can't help feeling like something is very wrong. Something has happened. I can't tell what... it's like...I've lost something...and at the same time I sense only darkness in the future. And General, you know me... I'm not superstitious. I hate feeling this way. I'm a scientist. Everything has an explanation. Everything.

Even I admit there are things I can't explain... we've both seen demons.

You've seen demons... I've only heard stories.

* * * * *

The Summoned
The Philosopher
Gothic Sea

The ship sailed onwards towards it's destination as the clouds grew darker overhead.

The ship was quiet and calm save for the tension among the crew regarding their current task. The tension. That's what the Skyans were counting on.

People do funny things under stress. They drink too much. Say things they don't mean. Become snappy. They go on the internet and download things they shouldn't. One of those things was a very particular computer virus. A virus that designed to haunt the crew.

It started slowly. Bursts of static from their comm system. Messages not getting through. Long periods of silence where they didn't hear anything.

Suddenly, their screens went black.

A massive amount of static burst through the bridge at full volume. The Captain and various crew rushed to the bridge to try and makes heads or tail of what was going on. The video screens flickered and then three bloody skeletons with full heads of long dark hair filled the screen and let out an eerie mournful sound.

AHAHAHAHAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!

"What the hell is this?"

WE KNOW YOUR SINS! YOU CURSED AND WRETCHED CAPTAIN OF COMMERCE! WE KNOW OF YOUR SIN OF GREED! THE BLOOD OF THE INNOCENT IS ON YOUR HEAD!

The Captain looked around and tried to hit the keys on his terminal.

What the hell are you talking about!?

The screen flickered and the skeletons shifted in form to a more feminine form. They had blood-shot eyes and their hair moved like snakes. They stood together and reached out into the ether...The center one pulled the image of a small ten year old girl into her arms embracing her. As she did, their human formed became more apparent. The center skeleton was pregnant. To the right of her, the skeleton assumed a more grandmotherly form. To her left, a younger blonde woman. Seconds later, the image of a Capitol Police Officer shooting the girl played out across the screen. Everyone's phones went off at once and those they looked saw the video of the whole bloody murder. A moment later, the skeletal forms had returned and the three were screaming all the louder.

DO NOT FEIGN IGNORANCE WITH US CAPTAIN! YOU KNOW WHO YOU DO BUSINESS WITH! CAPTAIN OF COMMERCE! MeRChANT oF death!! DO NOT LIE TO US! DO NOT LIE TO US! DOOOO NOOOOT LIIIEEEE TOOOOO USSSSSSS!!!!!!!

The lights on the bridge flickered.

What the hell do you want!? What the fuck is this!?

The skeletal forms morphed again. They now showed the appearance of three beautiful women with large white wings.

Despite your sins, there is still time to save your soul. You must obey our instructions to you without question and without report. Otherwise, we will remove you from your mortal coil and allow the Dark One to consume your soul....and we do not wish that.

The lead woman tilted her head.

You bring murder to the nation of Vetalia. You bring them the tools of their own demise. You... Captain of Commerce will also be their salvation. When the last weapon of death leaves your vessel.. you will take on a new cargo.... you will take refugees from the violent crisis onto your vessel and deliver them to the Refugee Sanctuary. You will do this quietly. You will tell nobody. You're already under secrecy for your current treachery. You should be used to being quiet.

The captain grew angry, AND WHAT IF I DON'T!?

The screens all went dark. The crew looks around quickly trying to figure out what happened.

A minute later, warning sirens sounded throughout the ship.

What's happening?!

I don't know... the sensors arn't making any sense?!

The screens started back up again. Skeletons with bloodshot eyes and snake-like hair looking down at the crew.

Succeed and you shall be rewarded. We will double the fee that was promised to you and ensure your safety. Fail, and you will meet the devil himself at the bottom of the cold dark sea.

If you agree to our demands, you will fly a small red banner under your own flags. You have one hour to comply.

by **Blackhelm Confederacy** » Tue Nov 04, 2014 7:38 pm

The Philosopher

The captain sighed as he took a sip of the half whiskey half coffee concoction that was in his cup and looked around the bridge as the video ended.

"That was the weirdest fucking thing I have ever seen in my entire life"

"How the hell do these guys find us?" the first mate asked as he walked around, making sure that everything was okay on deck.

The captain lifted one hand to the side in a confused manner, the other holding his white coffee cup perpendicular to his body. "I have no fucking idea...but it looks like there are gunna be some refugees down in the cargo hold for the return voyage...get ready to hoist that stupid banner"

The mate nodded. "I'll send a boat ashore too...pick up some extra inflatable boats so we can let them row their way when we get close enough to whatever shore they want to go to."

"Good thinking" the captain said, taking another swig of the mix in his mug.

And so it was. A small red banner was run up, made from the torn boxer shorts of one of the seamen, and the ship continued to sail, waiting to be contacted by these bizarre skeletons once again.

"I want everyone to be on top deck as often as possible too" the captain announced finally. "I dont know what the hell is up out here, but I dont like it, and I want to be able to abandon ship as soon as possible". As he said these words, he walked up and opened a compartment under the chart table. Inside was a heavy Lyan made "Hellhammer" .50 handgun. He nodded seeing it and closed the compartment back up.

"Just be ready for some funny business"

by **Dephire** » Mon Nov 10, 2014 6:07 pm

Ghray, Capitol City of Dephire

"Hello! Welcome back, General Coronado. How was the trip?" A very pregnant Tynsei Skragg greeted the ageless man at the train station below the Temple of Scythis.

"It was rather cold." The general shivered as his mind flashed back to landing at Hammerfest. "How have you been?"

"I have been worrying and missing my husband. Why was he not with you?" Tynsei tapped her foot with arms crossed above her bulging belly.

"Tristan had to ensure the rest of our personnel was ready to depart for home, but he was also summoned to ULE City. He sent Romanov ahead of him, and he should have arrived in Automagfreek about twenty minutes ago. I am sure he will be home as soon as the summons have concluded." Wilhelm smiled.

"Doubtful. Tristan will always find a reason to hide from me." She laughed briefly, then looked to the floor as her smile and laughter suddenly faded. "Is he... Better?"

"I do not want to spoil any surprises, ma'am." Wilhelm chuckled. The two had entered a hidden elevator which lead to a secret room behind the thrones.

Tynsei shivered, "Oh, don't call me that again. Makes me feel old."

"How do you think I feel?" The door slid open, and the two stepped out into the secret room. Behind them, a tall bookcase slid back over to cover the elevator door. The room itself appeared as a very convincing study. "Your husband has made a full recovery and can stand on his own. We cleared him for the trip to ULE. Thank you for the welcome home. If it is alright with you, I would like to take my leave."

"Of course, good night."

by **Vetalia** » Tue Nov 11, 2014 8:37 pm

Breaking Up is Hard to Do

Vetalia City, Vetalia
Ministry of Intelligence

Deep below Vetalia City's glittering beauty and miles from the carnage at the Praetorial Palace, Proconsul Vitaly Apalkov shifted anxiously in his chair and adjusted his tie almost unconsciously. Around him were a panorama of screens on each wall showing the developments in the Peninsula. A steady stream of intelligence feeds streamed through one, almost incoherent due to the speed with which they arrived. He watched one in particular, the movement of the handful of Vetalian army units as they made their way to the capitol. To his satisfaction, it appeared that they were encountering resistance from other Vetalian army units. He took a drag from his cigarette, the blue smoke effortlessly removed from the room by the powerful air filters and eventually ventilated to parts unknown.

The door opened suddenly, allowing a flood of light to enter the conference room. It was his attache, no doubt bringing him more news of the situation.

"Proconsul, if I may..." The young man shifted uncomfortably, as would anyone would in these circumstances.
"Go ahead Vasily., and relax" He smiled, took another drag and stubbed it out in one of the crystal ashtrays on the conference table.

"The Vetalian army regiments are stalled fighting our units outside the city, other than the Praetorial Palace we're in good shape." answered the attache,

"The Praetor and the rest of them?"

"Evacuated, sir, by foreign forces hostile to the Reich" Vasily's speech was jittery and anxious and he reached nervously for his cigarette case.

"Calm down, Vasily, and have a cigarette. Here, take a seat and have a light" The Proconsul pulled out his lighter and held it before the nervous attache before lighting another for himself.

"What of the police and intelligence forces, Vasily?"

"No action at all, they're standing down while this plays out-" The Proconsul cut him off abruptly.

"Not that, what are their loyalties?"

"Strongly pro-Reich in most cases, the exceptions are the Londinian units. They've been a thorn in our side since the beginning." Vasily shook ash from his cigarette into the ashtray.

The Proconsul rose, a small contrail of smoke following him. "The Londinians don't get it, if we ally with the Reich we can reclaim our lost lands...they'll be back on our side once we show them a green Victoria again..." Pausing, with a voice filed with genuine sadness he continued, "...and a green Zolotoi for us." The Proconsul turned away from Vasily for a moment and held his hand to his eyes as if attempting to stem off tears, but choked up anyways. Tears for his dead parents, his brother and sister and the loss of his childhood home, now a radioactive nightmare but perfectly preserved just like it was on that fateful day when the bombs dropped. Dead at the hands of their enemies, dead at the hands of the enemies of the Reich.

Vasily felt awkward but remained with his boss. "Sir..." he spoke as a gesture of compassion.

The Proconsul recovered in time and spoke "Vasily...we need to reclaim our lands! Our lands! They were stolen from us and only through the aid of the Reich can we retake them. On my behalf, I want you to do two things."

"Yes, Vitaly!"

"Send a general order to the National Police to execute Section 4119(I)(3)(i) of the Vetalian Revised Code, the Civil Insurrection Code and order the police to engage enemies of the Reich whenever and wherever they arise. Also send word to the Proconsul of Commerce about proclaiming a new government." The Proconsul extinguished his cigarette, pausing to extend his orders electronically to the National Intelligence Bureau and the National Police. By the time the attache arrived at his first police station the order would be in force across the country.

"I will, sir!" He gave the Proconsul a civilian salute before departing.

by **Havensky** » Wed Nov 12, 2014 10:12 pm

Havensky AIrship Carrier Valor
20 Miles off Vetalian Coastline
Gholgoth

The Valor broke through the low hanging clouds as the helijet formation carrying Queen Jessica Heart and several Red Guard units approached from the north. The hangar bays on the sky grey airship opened up allowing the helijets to land. No sooner had they touched down, then airmen began to board the craft quickly removing the harnesses of the passengers.

Jessica's face was a mix between annoyance, anger, and understanding. Havensky still had Legionnaires - and their Londinian counterparts - fighting at the palace. The Legion needed the helijets to get them out. Heart understood and didn't complain about getting literally thrown off the helijet and secured to the deck by a rather large crewman. The hangar crew quickly hooked fueling and ammo tubes up the helijet and began to refuel and rearm the helijet. Other crew members wiped the windows and checked for damage. The pilot of the helijet excited the craft and was replaced by a fresh one.

Approximately twenty seconds later, the deck beneath the helijets tilted down and the aircraft dropped from the Valor and headed back to the fray.

Alarms sounded and the hangar bay doors closed.

FLIGHT DECK SECURED! SET CONDITION TWO THROUGHOUT THE SHIP!

The large crewman helped Heart up off the deck and unhooked her harness that he had used to secure her from the deck. He saluted sharply.

Ma'am, Prime Minister Artemis is on a secure line with King Ironwing. She is waiting for you to join her.

* * * * *

SHEILDS UP!

Heartbreak Squad raised their shields just as a barrage of machine gun fire hit their positions. Several civilians in the center of their column screamed in terror as the bullets bounded off the Skyan shields. Captain Squall checked the group to make sure nobody else was hurt.

They were making their way slowly to the bulk of the Londinian forces now fighting off the both the remaining elements of the Reich Capitol Police and now Pro-Reich forces. It had been an extremely chaotic few minutes.

Spike! Get me a view?

Spike reached into his shoulder compartment and pulled out a small handheld drone. He threw it into the air and the small rotor blades took flight flying high above the fray. A small video feed appeared in Squall's heads up display showing four Pro-Riech Vetalian units using high powered machine guns to harass his group.

GRENADIERS! MY TARGET IN THREE!

Several Legionnaires in the group took out grenade rounds from their belts and loaded them into the launchers under their rifles. They aimed the launchers and fired in unison. The rounds flew over the street to where their enemies were taking cover.

Ba-Boooom! BOOM-ba-BOOM!

Squall checked the feed from the drone to make sure it was clear.

Good work, now let's double-time it to the Londinians.

They raced across the street towards the friendly units while Squall's radio crackled.

Heartbreak Six... Accipiters inbound ETA 6 mikes - Evac Units Deployed ETA 20 mikes

* * * * *

Stars and Signals Command

Admiral Q was pacing in his office when an aide walked in. The aide saluted sharply.

Well?, asked Admiral Q impatiently.

The ship is ours. They flew the red banner a few minutes after our message. We have begun to notify our contacts in the resistance. However, we have lost contact with resistance elements in Bogotol.

I assume the Prime Minister has been informed?

It was a loaded question. Since the attack on Queen Heart's life the Prime Minister had taken on a much more active role. It had caused quite a bit of tension at Stars and Signals. The aide sighed.

Yes sir, my counterpart is briefing her now.

Q's smart phone beeped loudly. He picked it up and read the message. Naturally, it was from the Prime Minister.

Good work. Proceed with mission.

by **Havensky** » Sat Nov 15, 2014 8:58 pm

Accipiter-9-1-0 (Designation Knight Leader)
En Route to Citadel Base
Gholgoth

Lucas Ironwing was not pleased.

He was currently strapped to the back of an F-109 Accipiter Interceptor Fighter traveling close to twice the speed of sound after being physically detained by his own guard. It had been a heated argument.

What do you mean, I'm being recalled? She can't do that! My wife-

Sir, please try to understand. The Prime Minister has ultimate command of the armed forces. And Ambassador Atticus already has the situation in hand at ULE City.

I have to do something!

Sir, the Red Guard is evacuating her as we speak...

In the end, Ironwing had listened to reason. Since the Prime Minister had agreed that the 95th should be deployed to Vetalia - that meant that he would have to take personal transport. The fastest - and therefore safest way - back home was in the back seat of a screaming fighter jet.

It had been quieter than he had imagined. The helmet they had given him cancelled out most of the noise. Having been used to wearing more bulky power armor he actually found the flight suit a bit more comfortable.

A few minutes after they had crossed into Skyan Airspace the helmet rang like a telephone. The pilot responded.

[i]This is Accipiter-9-1-0, Secure Ping Received - Passcode Alpha Noun Tango Mike Tree Tree Niner Echo

A few seconds passed and the pilot spoke again.

Rodger - you are now connected to Citadel Actual / 910 disconnecting

It took a moment for Ironwing to realize what was happening. It started to make sense once he heard the voice of Prime Minister Elizabeth Artemis in his ear.

I apologize for the sudden change of plans. However, you stepped over the line when you deployed an entire Airship Expeditionary Fleet without consulting the High Council.

But Jessica!

Should have been following protocol. And her actions have cost the lives of six Legionnaires. Speaking of which, I believe she's calling in now.

His wife's voice entered the other side of his headset.

What's going on? What's the status on my troops?

Six KIA... 12 wounded... with evac helijets inbound.

There was silence on the line broken by the Prime Minister's colder voice.

Understand... the Skyan Senate will be launching a hearing as to why the Red Guard failed to follow protocol and evacuate you immediately. While we could not have anticipated that somebody in your detail was an agent of the Reich, if you had boarded the evac helijet as soon as the cappers crossed the border then he wouldn't have had the chance.

What? Was I to do nothing? The cappes would have wiped them out! The Vetalian Government would have fallen!

And they may still fall! While you were out, our intelligence services have located a threat to the Vetalians from inside the ranks. They even went as far to send a Pro-Kraven delegation to ULE city. Even if you had maintained control of the palace, it would have only been a matter of time.

But you've seen what they're doing Elizabeth!

And that's why I agree with the decision to deploy the 95th -- with the approval of the rest of the Council. Ironwing, we value your military expertise - but you understand that you don't have the authority to deploy troops yes? Instead, you should be focusing on your role as Military Liaison to Allied Nations. Understand?

Ironwing begrudgedly keyed his communicator.

Understood.

And Jessica... it's time we think about promoting Atticus.

Are you...sacking me?! Not an hour after an attempt on my own life?!

No, you're retiring and becoming Special Envoy to Gholoth as well as your full-time duties as Gothic Havensky's Head of State. Lord knows, Atticus has earned this promotion and if not for your special history he would have long since assumed the role. We won't announce it until after the conflict. It's not that you do a bad job, but you attract trouble. Too much trouble. You're a QUEEN now Jessica...you don't have to be pulling double-duty all the time.

There was silence on the line again.

Look, I don't mean to lecture you. The Skyan People appreciate your service... but this did not go well. We're in a Democracy... we can't have you pulling things like this without backing. I'm glad you're both safe - Gods know what we'd do if we lost you. I'll see you in Citadel City in a few days. I'm headed there on the next flight. Ok y'all?'

by **Dephire** » Sat Nov 29, 2014 1:57 pm

Holy City of Galva, Briska
Fortress Dephire

"Lord Skragg is in the midst of the Summons. We discussed with our allies from Havensky and Kylarnatia about a potential full-scale invasion of Fortress Norska. He sent me here to ensure we can gather our forces in time for the official declarations." Godsend General Dimitri 'Wilhelm' Coronado was addressing the Lessers, generals of Dephire who have not ascended. Three thousand Lessers were in audience, and each eager to leave. "I expect our forces to be ready for the proclamation of war within the next few days. I want full combat readiness! It is expected to be at least a six month deployment. These orders come from the Emperor himself!"

"The emperor has left us for six months, then goes to a summoning, and now he orders us to ready forces just out of the blue? We need answers, Godsend!" One of the female generals stood up in protest. She appeared young, untested in anything beyond a desk job.

Wilhelm turned to face the accuser, "General Krayne, Our Emperor knows that the Kraven Reich is a grave threat to our well being. Our time of coexistence will come to an end and we do not want to be caught completely unprepared."

"While that may seem good and well from the inner circle, what if we want to continue support for the Reich? What proof do you have that they would ever pose a threat to us? Also, how do we know if that boy even gave such a ridiculous order? Last we saw, he was frail and weak. He is no longer worthy of his throne!" General Krayne shouted towards Wilhelm.

"You will hold your tongue, woman!" Another general shouted, "The Godsend General has given you an order! Are you questioning even his authority?"

"None of them were voted into their positions of power, and then call us Lessers. There is no chance in Hell I will commit my forces to this ludicrous sudden call to arms without any true reason nor cause." General Krayne started to walk away.

"You defy orders from the Godsend. Defiance is punishable by death." One of the closer Lessers stood with pistol in hand and aimed it at Krayne's head, then pulled the trigger.

Wilhelm nodded towards the executioner, "Right. You all have your orders now. Rouse the Emperor's Army!"

"Well, this was very boring. Did we really need an assembly to send orders? Furthermore, why is there always someone protesting orders?" Colossus spoke to Wilhelm.

"I do not understand it myself. I thought it would be nice to try and explain the next motives our Emperor would have, but it is always decent to make examples of people." Wilhelm replied.

Hab Centre 06
Occupied Vetalia

"Why, this is quite a delightful bottle of wine! What was it called again?" The Officer took a sip from his glass, then turned to a man doubled over with a pool of blood circling him. "Oh, right. Bullet through the heart." He moved the glass to where some of the blood would drip into it, then stirred the cocktail with his little finger. "Oh how the blood of the fearful adds a sense of sweetness to the wine!" He took another sip. Next to the dead man were his two children and wife. "Would you care for a taste, children? No? That is too bad. This vintage is to die for!" This time the officer swallowed the remainder of the contents and tossed the glass at the wall. "Then how about a game?" He produced a dagger and tossed it to the cowering family. "Last one alive gets to live."

The dead man's son, not more than seven years of age, picked up the dagger. His innocent eyes looking to his mother and his younger sister. "Mama?"

The mother grabbed the knife from her son and tossed it at the officer, who easily dodged the sloppy throw. "You are a monster! A demon!"

"I do not understand. I am simply giving you and your children a chance to live. Some would call this notion mercy." He shrugged, "Fine, have it your way." He pulled out a signature desert eagle with the twin hammer emblazoned on the handle. Without a moment's hesitation, he shot each member in the head, then set the house on fire with Firestorm, leaving nothing but an angry inferno behind. "Such a waste of good wine..." The officer exited the house as his soldiers continued to march past the blaze, unaffected by the heat it was giving.

It had only been a day since the mass execution, but Officer Siegfried Hansolft was not finished with the pestilence just yet. He literally burned a path through the area, destroying everything he found guilty of being a member of the resistance. Important figures were hung without a second thought. People of lesser stature were not deemed worthy enough for a bullet to the head, but a quick slice of the throat and a quick toss into the hole was sufficient. His orders had been clear, he was to destroy the resistance, but now he was taking the destruction far beyond necessary. He wanted everyone to know that resistance is futile.

by **Havensky** » Fri Dec 05, 2014 7:50 pm

The Price of Freedom

HRA Tyrant's Bane
Airspace off the coast of Vetalia

Captain Gavin Squall stood in silence in his skivvies as the doctor conducted his pre-action physical. It was cold on board the Tyrant's Bane as most airships were. Heartbreak Company had been transferred to the Assault Carrier Airship after the Valiant had left the area with the Queen on board. Squall was physically unhurt for the most part. However, there was a strong sense of survivor's guilt.

Gavin,

I'm sure you've heard by now that the Senate is launching an investigation into what happened at the Palace. Don't worry about it - the Senate it's doing it's job and you did yours. Although, knowing you, I don't think you're worried about yourself at the moment.

The airship's Legionary quarters were a glorified steel box. The bulkheads were steel, the floors were steel, the lockers were steel. The only color in the room was paint on the walls to show where the ship's systems were and directions to different parts of the airship. Every available space was utilized. Bulkheads opened up into lockers that stored equipment and supplies. Areas of the bulkhead that were too high for practical use were given over to glass screens to display information. Currently, it showed the Vetalian city of Bogotol. Or, as the Kraven Reich had renamed it - Hab Centre 06. The airship was crowded as well. Normally, Tyrant's Bane was home to just Ghost Company. Now the airship had to house not only Heartbreak Company, but also a dozen Londonian commandos that had opted to go with the Skyans.

The doctor finished his work, told Gavin he was as healthy as a horse, and signed his name on a glass tablet. He then moved to next alcove to check on Hurk Turbek.

The doctor finished up his work and signed a glass tablet. No sooner had he left than an equipment manager came in with Gavin's armor.

I know you feel guilty that you didn't make the call to evacuate Jessica and your unit sooner. You had to make a judgement call and you choose to follow Jessica's orders. And you did a damn fine job of it too. We lost people. Those things happen in combat. However, you also got Jessica and the core of the Vetalian government to safety. Nobody could have predicted that cappers would have an agent inside our own delegation. You did the best you could.

With the equipment manager's help, Gavin lifted the carbon fiber shoulder and body protector over his head. Embedded with Kevlar plating, it felt heavy on his shoulders. It was newly painted, having switched out the bright red markings of the Queen's Guard in favor of the more stable blue grey digital camouflage pattern. Next came his arm guards which snapped into the shoulder pads. The robotic legs of his exosuit came next. The weight of the heavier material was offset by the suit's power. Gavin then stood and was harnessed into the suit's back and arm supports. He put on his controller gloves and the suit responded by securing itself to the armor.

You should know that Stars and Signals has received intelligence that the Reich is sending Wolf Brigade units into Bogotol. It is very likely you'll be facing the same Cappers that hit the Academy and captured Tycho. I know you've never quite gotten over what happened. Despite your tremendous service record since that day, I know you still beat yourself over it. You forget, I've known Edwige and her mother longer than you have. She tells her mother (probably almost) everything. You give yourself zero slack. That means you're well prepared, disciplined, and ready for anything. But it's not healthy. I've told you a thousand times, there are at least two dozen people who owe you their lives. You need to focus on the ones you've saved.

Gavin took the heavy steel shield from the cart and hooked it to the left lower hip holster that was attached to his exosuit. The shield had the same camouflaged pattern, but had darker markings of a slingshot and stone. On the right, he placed a heavy automatic rifle. In the front left holster, he placed his tanto sword. He picked up the sidearm module and attached it to the top of the armor on his right forearm. The left forearm would hold an extra ammo pack.

I'd warn you about giving too much into the need for vengeance, but that's never been your thing. That was always Tycho. You're quite a pair. He's angry, you're guilty, and Hurk's just too quiet. Just this once, perhaps you should let loose your thirst for justice...or vengeance if you prefer. I'm certain you're not the only one who'd like to get a little payback for those we lost that day. Maybe then you'll rest a little easier. You better tell your troops this too. They've been in a tough fight, and we're asking them to go into an even more difficult battle. But this time, we'll be on the offensive. We'll be hitting back. We'll be making them pay for what they've done.

He got up to put on his rucksack. It was full of water, batteries, and ammo. It's weight negated by the power armor. Over all of that went a blue-grey camouflage hooded cloak designed to minimize his heat signature and break up his physical outline.

Finally, he picked up his helmet and placed it on his head. He hit the side button and the heads up display on the clear-faced helmet activated and the helmet sealed itself. The helmet looked a bit like a hockey goalie helmet - save for the metal plume that contained several cameras and communications equipment. The front had thick bullet resistance glass that showed his face and steel blue eyes clearly. It had made the design a little more difficult, but the Skyans felt strongly that they should show their faces in battle. No hiding behind gas masks like faceless mooks. The equipment manager looked at Gavin head on and asked him to clear the internal mask to ensure it worked correctly. As he did the armor's internal virtual assistant came online.

The Reich has taken a lot from us Gavin. You must not let it take your happiness as well. Edwige has been a patient girl, but she won't wait forever. Oh, don't act like you hadn't thought about it. I know my students. Yes, fight today - but more importantly live. It does nothing for you to fight all this time and lose out on everything else.

Gavin lowered the helmet's visor so that he could test the night vision and Infrared camera. Finally, Gavin tested his voice communicator and with that he was fully armed and deemed ready for combat.

Take care in the next battle and come home safe.

- Lucas

The Sword of Damocles (Attn: Kraven, Gholgoth, Closed)

If At First You Don't Succeed

Return of a General

Hail the Reich!

Course Correction

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