The Stripping of Peregrino

[New Edom]

(OOC Thread: http://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?ns=1&f=5&t=305307&p=21009212#p21009212)

A PROCLAMATION
of the
GOVERNOR OF PEREGRINO

INASMUCH AS the citizens of Peregrino were a colony of the Late Roman Empire and as those persons remaining in Peregrino were to become citizens of the Allied States of New Edom, and had been promised a plebiscite on all laws which may have concerned them in the practices thereof

BUT WHEREAS the people of San Marco, Aquila and Aqua Vita municipalities have blocked harbours, airports and airfields as well as prepared defenses against the laws of the Allied States to prevent the admission of lawful authorities from the Allied States of New Edom, and have declared self governance

THEREFORE as of this time the following acts are established.

1. Martial law. Curfew is from 6 AM to 10 AM at night for all citizens practicing non essential services in all municipalities on Peregrino. No citizens save those specially designated by the Governor’s authority may bear arms or maintain arms of any kind.
2. The Compulsory Nudity Act. All citizens whose work does not require protective gear or are not exempt for medical reasons must be unclothed save for footwear and hats while outside or inside buildings.
3. All communications of all kinds will be monitored and controlled by the Government.
4. All major transport, energy and communication systems will be controlled by the Government.
5. Military action may be authorized against militias which oppose the authority of the Government

May God preserve the Allied States,
Rear-Admiral Benjamin Zeror,
Governor of Peregrino

San Marco, Peregrino

Aquila was a city that had been left poor and confused by the Imperial withdrawal. When the Late Roman Empire had pulled out following the agreement with New Edom, they had also taken all their investments, services industries, infrastructure, bureaucracy. The people had risen in protest against New Edomite occupation, but a number of them had seen this as an opportunity to seize power in the name of the Allied States. They had filled the harbour with towed wrecks, they had put burning barrels all over the landing strips and tarmacs. There were roadblocks everywhere, big cement blocks dragged into key areas of the street like big concrete teeth. The wider building tops that were reinforced were riddled with huge twisted girders, razor wire and junk.

Dolores and her husband Jubal were among those celebrating loudly, her sister Patricia and her husband Vito were at a café, drinking cheap wine and eating bread, oil and vinegar, when there was a loud crash. It was like the sky exploded, and then they saw a strange plane flying swiftly over the city. Dolores had fallen off her chair, her backside hurting, watching the jet plane disappear, seeing the smoke and flames emerge from the depths of the police station where the plane had dropped its payload. There were sudden noises of sirens wailing, of flashes from the ground on the hill where the barracks was going up into the sky in rapid succession.

This explosion was followed by another series, as plane after plane shot at supersonic speed through the sky, their roar following explosion after explosion. Rubble and debris shot out from the café and flew in all directions. A lump of tangled metal flew into Patricia’s shoulder and sent her sideways onto the ground taking with it a chunk of Patricia’s arm and leaving a trail of blood arching behind it. Her head fell against the shattered brick wall.and a trickled of blood seeped out from her mouth. Jubal stood up and caught a brick in his chest which sent him staggering backwards onto the ground.

Dolores tried to scream his name and get up, but it was like all sound was swallowed up in the explosions and the shaking of the ground.

Vito crawled to her and grabbed her, holding her down, her struggles aimless but fierce. There was a strange quiet as the roar of jets and the vibrations of the explosions died down, to be following by a chorus of moans, cries and shrieks from all around. Dolores peeked up through the arms around her to see people on the street running, it seemed in all directions. Some had blood hiding the contours of what might once have been faces. There were others like Patricia, lying on the ground, moaning and yelling. Smoke was billowing out from the police station, the barracks, and other buildings, and rolling around the ground. Dust was thrown up from explosions.

Then there was a crackle of automatic gun fire. A man was running across the ground a few yards from her, and then he fell to the ground, the back of his head now just a formless mess of red and grey. Dolores finally stood up, and ran to Jubal, who was moaning. Vito screamed and ran to Patricia, cradling her head. “I need a doctor, nurse, somebody!” he shouted, ripping off his shirt to stem the bleeding.

“Oh, o wow ow!” cried Jubal, hodling his chest and upper body with his arms; something was clearly broken, if it hurt him just to stand, and Dolores cried, “Honey, we have to go, now! We need help for Patricia…” she realized in horror that that was her sister’s arm lying there on the ground.

Dolores put him up against a bench, and said, “Just rest there a moment, don’t fall asleep!” and went to kneel by her sister. Patricia was looking blue lipped, her eyes staring, Vito sobbing and trying to stop the bleeding.

Peregrino had been a troubled colony; life was hard, the Roman colonizers had been cold and remote, but most of the troubles she had seen were natural disasters and occasional crime. This was beyond belief. There were others wailing and sobbing in the dust around them, and Dolores grabbing at people for help yielded little, but finally she recognized the pharmacist from down the road who was helping people get organized to make stretchers, do first aid. She begged him for help but by then Patricia seemed to not be breathing.

Blinded with tears, she turned to Jubal, who was moaning, clearly in great pain and having a hard time breathing.

There were feet pounding down the street, vehicles rumbling; trucks painted with tigetr stripe camouflage and militia in them with automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenades, machineguns mounted on the backs of the vehicles.

“Hey, hey, we need help here!” cried Dolores.

“We’ll send the medics!” one of them called to her. “We’ll send the medics!” he seemed very young; she was panting with adrenaline, turned back to her sister, and saw Vito was doing mouth to mouth. She put her hands to her own mouth, horrified, and then suddenly heard another series of deafening explosions that scorched the air. Terrible helicopters were flying among the buildings, and the militia that had been rushing down the street were now burning in destroyed wrecks of vehicles. As some of them staggered from the nearby explosions, blinded and disoriented, figures running out of the smoke and dust sprayed bullets at them, knocking them down.

Recoiling in fear, she saw that these were the Edenist Militia, iring as they ran along. Their skin was all blotched with green and brown, and, oddest of all, each and everyone of them was naked except for their combat webbing.

Dolores crouched, shivering from fear, and scrambled from Patricia’s probably dead body with Vito weeping, unseeing, and found herself staring up at a trio of naked and aroused men and gun barrels…However at that moment the became increasingly smoky. Gusts of wind blew sparks and burning bits of debris past the fleeing crowd. The street glowed orange beyond the smoke and sparks pouring in the direction of the crowd. Now some of the civilians panicked and ran.

The Edenist Militia forgot about Dolores and moved on, shouting at people to get out of the way. There was a thunderous crash as one of the destroyed buildings collapsed into a heap of rubble, flames and smoke climbing high. Shots were rattling and ricocheting, and Dolores crawled over Jubal’s body and they held one another, shuddering as the smoke covered them.

San Peregrino is a small island distant from the coast of Jedoria, a former Haranese colony, later an Edomite Colony, and taken from the Edomites during the Great Cornellian War. It is soon to revert to New Edomite hands following negotiations begun during following then President Sif Finnhald’s visit to Constantinople. It was badly damaged by a hurricane in 2009.

The Cornellian Regional Factbook reports a shortage of skilled labor, widespread unemployment and underemployment, saying "more than two-thirds of the labor force do not have formal jobs", and describes pre-hurricane Peregrino as "already the poorest country in the Belisarian Hemisphere with 80% of the population living under the poverty line and 54% in abject poverty." Three-quarters of the population lives on 2 solidi or less per day. Reforms to improve the business environment have been proposed but a cynical policy about needing to return the island to New Edom has historically had lax provincial leaders simply exploiting it.

Though more than half of all Peregrinoans work in the agricultural sector, the province uses most of its food supply generated for storage against emergencies, tribute to Constantinople and for local consummation. .Peregrino exports crops such as mangoes, tea, and sugarcane, but agricultural products comprise only about 6% of all exports.

In Peregrino, only 12.5% of the population have access to electricity “officially”, although the Ministry of Public Works estimate that the coverage could be around 25% when irregular connections are considered. In the capital, San Marco, the access rate is about 45%.

Some towns in Peregrino, such as the capital of the province called San Marco, have an electricity distribution network, but distribution has largely been to essential industy and government, so ordinary people have to rely entirely on small, privately owned generators to meet their electricity demand.

Peregrino has two main highways that run from one end of the country to the other. The northern highway, Via Provincial No. 1 (National Highway One), originates in San Marco, winding through the coastal towns of Garum and Soma, before reaching its terminus at the northern port Cape San Victor. The southern highway, Route Nationale No. 2, links San Marco with Aquila and Aqua Vita.
The port at San Marco has more registered shipping than any of the other dozen ports in the country. The port's facilities include cranes, large berths, and warehouses, but these facilities are not in good condition. The port is underused, possibly due to the substantially high port fees.
In 1920, Peregrino was lush, with 60% of its original forest covering the lands and mountainous regions. Since then, Peregrino's residents have cut down an estimated 98% of its original forest cover for use as fuel for cookstoves, destroying fertile farmland soils and contributing to desertification.

In addition to soil erosion, deforestation has caused periodic and severe flooding in Peregrino, as experienced, for example, on 17 September 2009 following the hurricane. Earlier that year, in May, floods had killed over 3,000 people on Peregrino’s southern coastal region.

There has been little marine, coastal, and river basin management. Forest cover in the steep hills surrounding Peregrino's river basin retains soil, which in turn retains water from rainfall, reducing river flood peaks and conserving flows in the dry season. But deforestation has resulted in much of the soil being released from the upper catchments. Many of Peregrino's rivers are now highly unstable, changing rapidly from destructive flooding to inadequate flows.

Fauna largely include imported domestic animals and feral animals as well as some marine wildlife, native birds and reptiles. Pigs, water buffalo, goats and chickens are among the most common domestic animals, as well as domestic dogs and some horses.

Religion is largely dominated by the Imperial Church, though there is a strong minority of the Haranese Christian Church and some native animistic beliefs.

The population are mostly a mix of Haranese colonists and natives, called Transmarinos. Some pure blood very orthodox Haranese had remained, mostly as religious caste members, and there is a minority of Cornellian colonists who form some of the upper classes along with Roman educated businesspeople and civil servants.

The last two emperors expressed regret over the mismanagement of the colony and the long standing tensions over the territory, and have agreed to partner with New Edom in a one year transfer process. A general referendum of the population on agreement to transfer to New Edomite sovereignty was agreed to with provision to be able to abstain from requirement to accept the Compulsory Nudity Act.

[New Edom]

Aquila

The Holy Cross Regiment crossed into the territory surrounding the city of Aquila. The force consisted of 2600 militia including their camp followers. Their contact from the New Edomite government had promised them more supplies, but had strongly hinted that they needed to achieve something to earn it. When were the New Edomites landing in force as they had promised? Soon the contact had reassured them.

Livia Maris, a Tessarius in the Women’s Auxiliary of the Regiment, had kissed the Holy Cross and now crouched with others under the cover of trees and the huts of a fishing village while they watched and heard the sounds of rifle and machinegun fire, heard the crash of grenades, saw and heard people dying and being wounded, saw the flames licking the houses of the riverside town.

She had a quiet charisma , keeping the watch (what they called a squad) under control though her personality instead of constant threats of the whip. She had a way of talking to her subordinates that made them want to please her. She skillfully and patiently manipulated the other women's emotions, to the point she exercised absolute control over the watch within a few weeks.

Marietta Ludi, the Optio of the Women’s Auxiliary, was crouching with a radio nearby, and she looked up at her. “They’ve capture the town, we’re to go in, help secure the citizens, let’s move with a purpose!”

The assault on the town went as well as could be expected under the circumstances. The mortar crews finally proved their usefulness by providing cover for ther riflemen rushing through the gaps in the wall to enter the town. The Holy Cross swept into the streets and used buildings for concealment and cover as they advanced through the town. The townsfolk watched in dismay as fortifications they had worked on for a month ended up aiding the Edenist Militia instead of the town's garrison, by allowing the enemy to easily bypass the outer defenses. With minimal opposition, the Holy Cross’s riflemen attacked the poorly-organized locals, driving them back while snipers and machinegunners entered the houses and took over the upper floors. Families of terrified civilians added to the confusion and greatly complicated the operation.

The Holy Cross needed to clear out the local population, but did not want to do so by killing them. When they took over the eastern side of town, the commander ordered the auxiliaries to start chasing the town's non-combatants towards that exit. Not yet believing that they weren't being targeted for killing, thousands of panicky civilians rushed out, directed by strange naked women screaming prayers and pointing hunting rifles, submachineguns and shotguns at them.

Meanwhile, the city's garrison fought bravely, but they were badly outnumbered. The two remaining barriers fell, followed by the warehouses and the garrison which was mortared into submission. Coughing and stumbling officers came out, two were shot before one of the Holy Cross officers roared, “They’re surrendering, you fucking idiots! Cease firing!”

The naked militiawomen walked into the town market square, in single file and gathered the townswomen who had surrendered there and in other areas, to be stripped to the skin, their footwear placed before them, kneeling with eyes closed and hands on heads. Cross painted chaplains moved among them, blessing them, murmuring that they had been restored to the Edenist state. A Communion Feast of dried fish, bread and wine would be served to them. The men would have a separate ceremony.

Cursing and protesting Imperial Church priests were herded through the village, to be locked up with the officers, men who were weeping or cursing the Holy Cross, condemning them as heretics, swearing that they would be in Hell for eternity.

Livia felt compassion for the defeated. They were still ensnared by the lies that Satan had spawned, that told them that they were naked when they were clothed in glory if only they repented. Her eyes fell on a weeping young woman who had protested that only her husband should see her thus as her skirt and underthings, her top fell to the ground to be taken to the bonfires that were being built. She clearly wanted to cover herself but had her hands on her head.

“It was thus for me, when I first was stripped, but then I saw the face of God and was purified!’ she told the young woman. “You will understand in time.”

The bonfires’ flames began to grow, and a cheer rose from the Holy Cross Regiment all over the town of Signifier as the clothing began to burn.

[Novitera]

Avantine, United Commonwealth of Novitera
Commonwealth Intelligence Service Headquarters


Mason Dalach, Director of the CIS, straightened his tie before walking into the conference room. A remote pulled down the shutters covering the glass walls around them. He moved to the head of the table but did not sit down while every one else already there stopped shuffling around their files and papers. It got quiet quickly as they waited for Mason to address them.

"As you know, Peregrino has declared independence." Mason led with that. "The Chief Executor is going to publish a statement that the UC government is going to stay out of this conflict." He paused. "He has also ordered me to propose a plan on how the Outfit can help this rebellion succeed without incriminating the Commonwealth government as you read from your briefings. I don't think I need to remind anybody that this is top secret."

The Chief Executor and the Directorate wanted that New Edomite base, so close to their nation, gone. At the same time, Noviterans still want to do business with New Edom, a considerably expanding market. That left the government tied on using the normal channels for putting pressure on the Allied States to decommission their base less they decide to put up trade barriers in retaliation. It seems that the opportunity had come in a more discrete manner. But as the staff would have guessed, the Outfit would have to tip toe on this situation.

"Any thoughts?" Mason opened the floor.

Nicolas Silvio spoke first. "Their military is tied up with maintaining order in New Edom itself which is fragile, as a deterrent against Deadora and their other enemies. But they can still commit enough forces to pacify the island. All the Peregrinos have to do is to keep their insurrection going long enough to convince Moby that it's not worth it." He said, referring to the Outfit's nickname for Perrin Pahath-Moab. They had nicknames for all world leaders.

"He's going to think that base they have there is well worth it. Plus, the Peregrinos might get their independence, but the base might get to stay as terms of the deal. That's what we are really after isn't it?" Kilian Reide retorted getting nods in agreement. "The rebels will need enough bargaining power to get rid of the base and the New Edomite presence." Kilian said further. This was going to be a task wracked with adversity. But these were the things that the Outfit was made for.

"I say we find a way to kill Moby. They'll not have the forces to spare for this rebellion when the whole country caves in." Colten Walker offered.

Mason was pacing about listening while brainstorming his own ideas when he heard that. He raised a hand. "No, we can't go there if even such an operation can be done. Trask was stern that we do nothing to destabilize the Allied States on their mainland." He stated sternly. That made Colten sit back in embarrassment. The United Commonwealth may disapprove of the base, but they wanted New Edom intact as a market.

"So we funnel arms and money to the rebels. Set up shell corporations in Arcologia and....now, you may not like this proposal...but I say we bring in the Consortium." Lorraine Hanna offered. It was the first practical solution that Mason had heard, and of that he approved.

"You want to get in bed with them?" Nicolas asked dismissively.

Lorraine shrugged. "I don't think we should smuggle arms directly from our mainland. Arcologia is considerably far. From Hostillia would be best and the Consortium can be blamed."

Mason snapped his fingers and pointed at her. "That's the kind of thinking I like." He exclaimed. "I want to get these rebels shoulder launched surface to air and small arms first. The heavier stuff can come later if we can even manage it. I want agents on the island too feeding them intelligence. We'll use our satellite imagery and hand launched spy drones. No other kinds air reconnaissance over Peregrino allowed. The UC is officially staying out of this conflict. Draft me a plan, I want it on my desk tomorrow ready to be presented to the Chief." With that he left to attend to other Outfit business.

There was much to be done. They would have to figure out how to make contact with the rebels and the Consortium. Fake papers would have to be drawn up for the agents infiltrating the island. Then there was the matter of setting up those shell corporations in Arcologia to be used as a slush fund for this rebellion. Then there was the monumental matter of getting the armaments there. That task would most likely be outsourced to the Consortium if they can be brought on board.

"...The methods of the Allied States may be harsh but we can only hope for peace and prosperity in Peregrino. I state firmly now that the United Commonwealth will decline to involve itself in this conflict despite it being in such close proximity..."

Executive Center Press Release
James Trask
Chief Executor of the United Commonwealth

[Late Roman Empire]

To His Excellency, Brigadier-General Perrin Pahath-Moab, President of the Council of Ministers of the Allied States of New Edom

Your Excellency,

I regret the necessity and the circumstances which occasion this first official notice to your government from myself, acting on behalf of the Divine Augustus, in my new office as Master of Offices. Nevertheless, I must hereby formally lodge a protest at the treatment of Imperial Roman Christians in Peregrino and strongly urge that they be either issued waivers or permitted to emigrate to other lands. The reports concerning the clergy are particularly worrisome indeed and cause in themselves for an official protest. The religious liberty of all Peregrinos should be properly protected, of course.

In Hoc Singo, Vinces,
Statius Gallienus, Master of Offices

[New Edom]

From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

To: Statius Gallienus, Master of Offices
From: Benjamin Kent, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Subject: Peregrino

---

Your Excellency,

I am instructed by the President of the Council to salute His Imperial Majesty and all blessed to be His subjects. The President is always glad to have so stour and un changing an ally.

As touching the matter of Peregrino, I am sure that you are aware that the President had originally decided after polling the people of Peregrino that the Compulsory Nudity Act should not exist in Peregrino. However the people there have blocked the harbour at San Marco and airport, airfields and other landing zones, and declared independence. The people o not all support this however, or we might reconsider. However there are many followers of the Haranese Christian Church who need our protection.

Naturally we regret the excessive zeal of the native militias and will give your recommendations gravest consideration. We will ensure that waivers are provided where circumstances merit it, and will discuss this in greater detail with your nuncio in Fineberg.

I have the honor to be,
Benjamin Kent, Foreign Minister

[New Edom]

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE OF PEREGRINO

Peregrino is a sovereignly peaceful and hospitable nation. It never vanquished, submitted, or humiliated anybody.

The New Edomite State, for its part, has founded a military society, thus gaining glory and extending its domain to the ends of Cornellia.

It is by dint of war, through her alliance with the Late Roman Empire that the New Edomite State submitted the Peregrinon Nation to its law, in contempt of her culture, history, and of her fundamental rights, without any act of right and international use ever to justify it judicially.
We most particularly protest the laws of New Edom, which enshrine Christianity not merely as a protected religion, but as one which invades every aspect of human life.

We protest the lack of rights to freedom of marriage, of assembly, and of the forming of any political party not specifically denying rights to other citizens.

We insist that Peregrino has the right to determine her own sovereignty and that she has done so through the election of a Popular Assembly which governs this country and an Imperator to lead it as acclaimed by the people’s representatives.

We include in our bill of rights for citizens the right to privacy of correspondence, of assembly, of establishing personal relationships and businesses, and of freedom to worship. While we greatly respect the Imperial Church, we submit that churches and other religions shall have a protected status without an inherent right in government save by the appeal of faith and conscience.

signed
Imperator Aemilius Hosidius Geta
(list of National Assembly Members and Senators)

[Novitera]

Avantine, United Commonwealth of Novitera
Executive Center, Office of the Chief Executor


They sat on comfortable couches in James Trask's office which overlooked the downtown of Avantine. Most of the Federal government buildings were outside the main city limits to put some distance between them and the hectic madness. It was silent as the Chief Executor, his chief of staff and trust advisers read through the proposed plan that Mason had brought along with him. James was the charismatic type. Warm and friendly on the outside while sober and innovative in thinking. He was good looking for being in his early fifties and still had a full head of graying hair in contrast to Mason's bald head.

"You know I cannot give the Consortium operations here a reprieve. That might set off suspicions. The CIB will still keep an eye on them but I can get the Attorney General to drop a few cases for...'lack of evidence' in exchange for their services." James commented on the plan to involve the Consortium.

"We at the Outfit understand. Part of the deal we will structure is to pay them through their front here, Caifu Holdings. They'll use their usual money laundering channels. The money will come cash through their casinos in San Crispiano." Mason explained to which James nodded.

"Good, but this plan may take a bit of time to implement. I think we can start helping them right now. Have the Outfit flood communications. We'll send out our own transmissions they can intercept. Disinformation my friend." James said. Mason nodded in agreement though was planning on doing that anyways. "You also forgot one important facet of this operation...the media. We need our agents capturing the brutality of the AS and their friendly factions. As well as their losses in this campaign. Have it posted to the net. The New Edomite people can see for themselves."

"But Pahath-Moab doesn't need to worry about being reelected." One adviser chimed in.

In response, James got up and looked out the window. "Yes, but he still needs to worry about public opinion. We'll see how that stands after the people of New Edom find out their beloved General has been dumping lives and money to keep some piss poor island in the Occidental Ocean, over 6000 kilometers away from their mainland." James said while pointing out the window towards the general direction of Peregrino. He turned and looked at Mason. "We'll need footage Mason." He said then paced around a bit.

"Yes sir." Mason replied, wondering why he did not think to implement a media campaign as well.

James came back over to the couches while rubbing his forehead. He looked at Mason. "I'm giving you the green light on this plan. Do it."

San Marco, Peregrino

A rusty looking fishing boat anchored in the water just outside San Marco in the night far from the shore. Two men dressed as typical Peregrinos jumped out with a team of CASC Special Operations men in black combat fatigues into an inflatable motorboat. They approached the shore slowly and quietly less the rebels, those they were trying to help, fire upon them. The CASC men held their guns at ready and everyone crouched low in the boat. They were scanning beach with night and thermal vision to make sure it was all clear. Waves breaking upon the shore covered the sound of their quiet motor. When the boat reached shore, the CIS operatives jumped out and moved inland, armed with nothing but fake Noviteran passports, water, a couple hundred UCD, wallets with credit cards registered to fake names and a satellite phone to contact CIS headquarters. The CASC men immediately turned the motorboat around without saying a word and headed back towards the sea. The operatives were now alone with one mission in mind, make contact with the rebels. Both of them proceeded in the night towards San Marco.

[New Edom]

San Marco, Night

People moved along the roads at the edge of town. They pointed, murmured, crossed themselves; many had fled from the burning of the warehouses, railyards and factories in the industrial section of the city. Leading in, many areas had been coiled up with acres of razor wire, crossed metal girders, and dragged concrete blocks that allowed only narrow avenues for vehicles to pass, and none at all in some other areas. However a number of the defensible areas of sandbagged trenches were smouldering or burning.

While there were people there, they did not notice the arriving agents; they were more focused on their fear of the fires and explosions. They seemed to be moving out into the areas of fields and smaller villages surrounding the city, while local Vigiles (which were both police and fire department) were trying to calm them. “Take my baby!” screamed a hysterical woman, her head scarf falling to reveal long dark brown hair. The Vigile, flustered, said, “Ma’am, you have to step back, you'll be perfectly safe! We have to do this in an orderly manner.”

Bucket brigades were being organized, but the Vigiles were overwhelmed; a few not enough to control the crowd, most fighting fires or trying to rescue people.

In other parts of the city, people watched the drifting clouds of dirty-grey smoke that created a haze everywhere, and were working on building fire breaks, some weeping and wailing as they were evacuated as buildings deemed tinderbox enough to demolish.

Dolores walked along with her moaning husband, barely seeing, tragedy shocking her into zombie numbness; many buildins in the city were engulfed in towering flames. The roar of the fire and the sound of crashing buildings sounded as terrifying as artillery. As the fire drew closer, people continued pouring through the gate, near the harbour, although the crowd was starting to diminish.

It was difficult in the smoke and the distance to make any sense of anything that was happening. Amongst the dark figures running around were also some land rovers who were dashing about, raising even more dust, associated with cracks of rifle and machine gun fire. One land rover appeared to spin out of control, ploughed over people who were not in time to scatter which seemed to make it violently twirl like a bug on a hot pan, collided with a wall and almost instantly exploded into a ball of fire. At this Dolores suddenly came to consciousness fully, and said, “Jubal, we have to get to shelter!”

“Yes..don’t mind me…and don’t wait for me…” he said through clenched teeth, holding his chest tightly.

They through the grey black smoke which was billowing their way and into the streets, What about bullets came to her mind but she didn’t know what to do about that anyway as they towards a nearby shop building. They could see that there were more figures to be seen running farther down the street and across it, rifle bursts coming from them. She could make out that some of them were nude, although their skins were strangely dark and shadowed, some of them clearly in an aroused holy state. Jubal wheezed, he was falling behind, but somehow he made it to the store.

Then moving down the other way came five fully clothed soldiers, with helmets on their heads, bags and belts hanging from their tiger stripe patterned uniforms and massive boots which noisily crunched on the pavement. One of them shoved a barrow cart down with a violent crash, and they were dragging other stuff around it, one laying down a machinegun and opening fire down the street, another feeding him the belt, gritting his teeth in the flaring light like a man clenching his face against a hail storm.

[Ghant]

DECLARATION OF RECOGNITION OF THE INDEPENDENCE OF PEREGRINO

Often times in the course of human history, there have been cries for freedom and justice. It is the desire of all people born to our world that they should know peace, prosperity, and most importantly, the right to self-determination.

But what is self-determination? Why is it important? Simply put, it is the right of every man, woman and child to live their lives the way they see fit. The ability to choose their own fate. We as people only live one life, after all, and that life should be spent being able to live according to their own wishes and desires.

The situation in Peregrino is not only a gross violation of the rights of indigenous peoples, but also a disgusting example of imperialism the likes of which few others can hope to match. By what right does New Edom, or any other foreign power, have to exercise suzerainty over such a place as Peregrino?

The answer is that they don't. Geography, history and several other criteria call that into question. For far too long, Peregrino has been subject to whims and dictates from elsewhere. Perhaps now is the time to allow Peregrino to dictate its own fate and live by its own standards.

At this time, Ghant would like to formally recognize Peregrino's right to self-determination. Effective immediately, Ghant recognizes the sovereignty of Peregrino. We would like to formally extend our hand in friendship and peace, to help build a better future for the people of Peregrino, free of dominion and with great potential for prosperity and peace.

We would also like to call upon New Edom to recognize the decision of Peregrino in this regard, and we hope that New Edom will stand with us in helping Peregrino build a future as a free and sovereign state.

I understand that this decision made by me will not be popular in New Edom. But, as my father used to tell me, "What is popular isn't always right, and what is right isn't always popular." While I acknowledge that this decision to recognize Peregrino will not be popular, I believe that it is right. I would grant the same recognition to any country, as Ghant has always done. Ghant has always stood with the little guys, the underdogs and the downtrodden, as they yearn for freedom. And so we shall do again today, and in the future.

signed
Yula Zimya
Prime Minister of Ghant

[Novitera]

San Marco, Peregrino

As they drew closer, the two CIS operatives could hear the gunfire and explosions. They dropped to the ground although there was no immediate danger. Both were clothed in civilian attire, dressed to fit in but with hiking boots for practicality.

"Conleth, this is where we part ways." The senior of the two said. Conleth, not being his real name and in his late twenties nodded. They grasped hands before Conleth vanished into the dark with the satellite phone. He would be going inland to a predetermined location.

Seymour looked forward towards San Marco. He himself was in his mid thirties. The clock was ticking now. If he did not meet up with Conleth in the next three days the CIS would assume him dead and try again. He got up and continued on towards the gunfire. This was not his first time in a combat zone or a dangerous situation. But Seymour never had to fire a weapon at anybody before. A good operative never did. He moved forward slowly. Stopping every once in a while to survey the area and make sure it was all clear. The sounds of fighting and screaming got louder. It was certainly counter intuitive to be in this profession. One had to learn how to move towards danger rather than away from it. To sit and relax even when you had a screaming notion that your cover was blown. A different kind of instinct than what humans were born with that had to be ingrained.

Instead of heading straight into the city, Seymour maneuvered around to towards the back of the rebel lines. It was time for a break so he put down a bit of water from his canteen and surveyed the area again. If there was one thing he learned from the academy and the field, it was patience. The CIS always taught their agents that nobody was that good or that skilled. A good operative was one who could stay put, study, plan and who could wait until just the right moment to make a move. They said there would be a pressing desire to just go through with it and get whatever you needed to do over with. But you had to resist this urge like an addict trying to quit cold turkey.

He found what seemed to be a leader of the rebel forces in a helmet giving out orders. At the same time there were dozens of civilians running the opposite way while soldiers in tiger stripped fatigues moved towards the city. Seymour took out the envelope from his pack. He raised his hands with the envelope in one hand and approached. Of course this was the point where he could be shot but what other way was there to get this done. "Captain! Captain! I have something you need to see!" Seymour yelled.

[Jedoria]

San Crispiano,
Novitera

"Come on, 22 black, 22 black..." Bogdan Tudar muttered, watched as the ball rolled through the table, teasingly coming close to Tudar's point of interest. The table then stopped, as did the ball...right on top of 18 red.

"Black ass, son of a bitch!" Tudar swore, he couldn't believe his luck. He was blowing his money in more ways then he was blowing load in some of the woman here. How did one man get such a poor showing? First Blackjack failed him, then Poker, even though he had a fantastic poker face, and now roulette was his downfall. What did he ever do to deserve this?

Well, actually quite a lot now that he thought about it. He ran his hand through his dark hair, before sighing as he left the table.To anyone around him, he came across quite easily as a sleazy older man, with a pouch and over-gelled hair. His dark blue eyes and Slavic features gave him away as a Jedorian to anyone who was paying attention. With money lost and whiskey deep in his stomach, Tudar made his way to the bar, deciding that if he couldn't win at the tables, he could at least drink away the memories of him losing so much money.

Taking his seat at the bar, he ordered another Greyhound. Behind him, two other Slavic looking men, clad in black suit and tie, glanced around, keeping eyes out for anyone who might give them trouble. Once his drink was with him, he swiveled on his chair and sipped his drink. This was a nice place. Lots of pretty lights and girls. Far better than the warehouse he spent most of his time. Being an Arms dealer meant hanging out in musty buildings way too much.

[New Edom]

San Marco

Heat made sweat run in rivulets down the face of Optio First Rufio Jairus. Words were swirling around him like the cinders.

“Can’t reach the Vigiles HQ, Opt,” said one report.

“It got blown to bits!” said another.

“Jairus,” shouted the Centurion of the 3rd-2nd into the radio of his RTO, “They are establishing a temporary Vigiles HQ at the Academy—make sure you direct all emergency calls there!”

“Opt, First and Second Watch got their streets covered,” reported his Tessarius First.

“Roger that,” he said, clearing his throat. “Let’s try to get the civilians moved down to the evacuation areas…this a madhouse!”

It was indeed, even as he spoke people were running pell mell and in fear through his troops, it was all they could do to get them to get down, get the hell out of the way. Madness! Several had already fallen to friendly fire—an old grandmother, a youth, a couple running for safety. He was breathing hard; the sound of rifles chattering and mortars thumping, was it coming closer?

“Follow me,” he said to his Command Post, “We’re going to take a closer look.” His RTO, the medic, the Tessarius, the runners, moving with him, and then they ran into a bunch of Vigiles on the next street evacuating people.

“My dog, I have to find my dog!”

“No time, Mister, I’m sorry!”

“Wait, I see him there—“

“You can’t arrest me, I tell you I’m not an Edenist!” cried a woman with dark wild hair, ineffectively trying to cover her breasts and her crotch all at once, as wild above as below, tears of outrage streaming down her face.

“Sure you’re not an Edenist—“ snapped one of the Vigiles, a weathered middle aged man shaking his head, hauling her by the arm.

“I swear, I was taking a bath when the bombs hit, my ceiling partly collapsed, I ran and I lost my towel, what would you have done?”

“It’s just a precaution—“

“Give her a coat, you old goat,” shouted one man in his undershirt, suspenders and trousers and boots, shaking a fist. “What’s the matter with you, what if it was your sister?”

“If I give her a coat and she pulls a runner, then where’ll I be, having given an Edenist a disguise—“

“Fool!”

The argument faded, the crowd swirled around as the Tessarius barked, “Out of the way! Make way there!” he and the others with their rifles up to avoid them going off unexpectedly in the crowd. One of his Watches trotted past the CP, setting up a barrier for a machinegun nest, which they immediately began firing. That did the trick, the civvies and Vigiles suddenly were not able to move out of the area fast enough, running almost as fast as the casings were tinkling on the ground.

Then there was a man there waving something at him. "Captain! Captain! I have something you need to see!" Seymour yelled.

“It’s Optio,” said Jairus, irritated by the interruption. “Who are you, what do you want? Identify yourself!”

[Novitera]

San Crispiano, Novitera

Men, not particularly in suits but dressed as typical casino patrons circled around Bogdan's position. Each of them doing something mundane such as ordering drinks and trying their hand at the slot machines. All were armed. They were private military, ones that the CIS kept on retainer. The agency only had so much manpower to go around. Scot Akira approached the bar and sat a few seats down from Bogdan. He grabbed a napkin and wrote something on it. The bartender took Scot's order which was not for himself. Instead, Bogdan was brought a whiskey and the napkin.

Look around you. Then tell your guards to stand down and come with me.

Scot figured that Bogdan was keen enough to see agents when they were around. Especially when they were trained to be soldiers. He would turn around to see men looking back at him with their hands in their coats. Scot himself was holding a Commonwealth Investigation Bureau badge down at his hip so Bogdan could see. It was a fake as Scot was with the CIS. But the badge was as real as the ones crafted for true agents of the CIB.

[Novitera]

San Marco, Peregrino

Seymour made himself look calm and collected. The optio would be able to tell he was not just another fleeing civilian. Seymour stopped moving towards him less he be shot down. He saw the PIF troops gun down civilians on accident and a naked woman desperately trying to cover herself. That made him look away in distaste. Seymour was no stranger to violence and death but he preferred not to look at it when he did not have to. There would be less memories he had to repress when he retired. What he was seeing was unjust and inhumane, Seymour thought. Now this was not just another job that he would hate himself for doing. The CIS had finally sent him to fight for something he did not have to justify in his own head.

"Seymour Fulk! Just a tourist who got caught up in this mess! You have to see what I have here please!" he said desperately while holding up the envelope towards Optio Rufio Jairus.

[New Edom]

Ghish, Empire of Ghant

“H..how did the President react?” asked Ambassador John Manoah, his throat dry and tight. John Manoah was a well dressed man, a courteous man, a man of great taste, of ancient but untitled family, and he had been on the staff of President Touchstone as press officer, later as a representative to the World Assembly (not the Delegate but the Trade Advisor) and now he was here. It was a relatively small but busy embassy, largely focused on good trade and diplomatic relations thus far.


There was a silence on the other end of the line, and then Levi Dathan, the Undersecretary for Cornellian Affairs, said, “As one might expect.”

What? WHAT? What did that mean? “Is he angry?” the Ambassador asked.

“What? No, the President rarely gets angry. What you are to do is this: find out what the other elements of government think about this situation, and then make a report. Do you understand Mr. Ambassador?”

“Of course I do.” John Manoah didn’t like Levi Dathan; he was a prim bureaucrat who thought the sun shone out of his ass. But he knew where the sun shone from. It was one man…the man he if he was honest to admit it loved above all others.

No! Nothing prurient and disgusting! No matter what some who might find out and judge might think. No, it was that he knew that he above all others would, if the President got to know him, be the real confidant, the real person who he understood. Those eyes, so soulful really beneath their ice, so determined and yet in need of someone to be vulnerable with.

And now he had a mission! This remote post, this strange country, his work would not prove once and for all to the President his true worth.

And so it was a call to the members of the cabinet. “Hello, I hope you are doing well. I wondered, just for the sake of preparing our response, if you support the Prime Minister’s recent declaration on Peregrino. Where’s that? Oh its near Jedoria, and it was ceded to New Edom as an old territorial claim recently…”

And a call to the office of the Empress (not the Emperor, God bless him) saying, “I would love an audience sometime soon at Her Majesty’s convenience, but I wondered if you might find out for me what Her Majesty thinks of the Prime Minsiter’s recent declaration about Peregrino…”

And to members of the opposition. “Hello. I hope you are doing well. I wonder if your party supports or disagrees with the Prime Minister’s recent declarations vis a vis Peregrino?”

[Jedoria]

San Crispiano,
Novitera

Tudar sipped his drink, taking in the sights and sounds of the casino. Pretty neon lights and cheerful music, what a change from his office back in Neo Noir. So dirty, ashy, it was ridiculous. Almost like the whole city was a giant factory. But here, with these Noviterian women and Noviterean drinks...well, it was nice to be on vacation.

Even so, Tudar didn't expect to see a free drink heading his way, least of all a whiskey with a note attached. Tudar looked up at the bartender slightly startled, but nevertheless investigated the napkin. He read the words and signed. He had come here for vacation god damn it. Now what? Did the Consortium need more guns? Did the Gun Runners need a re-supply? Did someone mistake him for someone else? To humor his situation, Tudar looked over his shoulder and confirmed that he was indeed, surrounded. Great.
"Izbașa, Covaci, go get yourselves some girls. I'll be busy for some time."

His two bodyguards exchanged curious glances, but nevertheless went on their way. Once gone, Tudar tore up the napkin, looked around for the closest member of the group that surrounded him, and walked towards him. Sitting down next to Scott Akira, he took a sip of his drink and asked "Alright, what is it you want?"

This had better be pretty important.

[New Edom]

San Marco

The Optio was confused, and for a moment almost dismissed the man, in fact the Tessarius was already saying,

“Look mister, no offense but go find the Vigiles if you have a concern or information, but we’re in action right now, so kindly piss off—“

“Watch it!” shouted the Immunes down the street from them. “Nudies!”

Bullets zipped around them, and Jairus suddenly shoved the man down onto the street. Crawling towards an overturned car and a heap of rubble, he and the CP took up a protected position.

“Dam it, I knew this would happen, where’s our damn roof cover?” howled the RTO.

“Are you hit?” barked the Tessarius, glancing at him as he fired off a burst in support of the machinegun nest down the block at the figures silhouetted in the smoke and firelight moving even farther down.

“No…no! I’m not, thank you thank you,” muttered the RTO kissing an icon around his neck.

“See if you can get us some fire support…” the Optio got out his map. “Damn it…” the map was not laminated, a lot wasn’t done properly, it was falling apart. “Grid 939…no 9387…”

“9387…” the RTO repeated, keying for the Artillery Century.

Jairus remembered the envelope in his hand, and ripped it open. Then he blinked, and stared at “Fulk”. “How the hell did you get this? Why did you give this to me?” And who are you?

[Ghant]

Ghish, Ghant

The Cabinet members held a meeting in the Government Palace without Zimya to discuss the message that they all received.

Deputy Prime Minister Charles Iger led the meeting. “Well, here we are. Another fuckaroo by Zimya that we have to deal with. It is bad enough that she won’t let this republic referendum down. No, now we have to deal with this Peregrino shit. Might as well say what needs to be said, shall we? It’s not like our political careers can be saved now anyway.”

And with that, Iger played the message.

And so it was a call to the members of the cabinet. “Hello, I hope you are doing well. I wondered, just for the sake of preparing our response, if you support the Prime Minister’s recent declaration on Peregrino. Where’s that? Oh its near Jedoria, and it was ceded to New Edom as an old territorial claim recently…

Iger left his response first. “Clearly, based on the Old Laws of Ghant, in particular Lurra, I would argue that yes, from the Ghantish perspective, Peregrino ought to be free. My question for New Edom is what does it have to gain from hanging onto a faraway piece of land that was never really theirs to begin with? Might as well save everybody the trouble and let them go.”

Minister of State Tarlec Syphon was next. “I agree with the Deputy Prime Minister for the most part. However, I would also argue that since this is a…sensitive issue, that more discretion ought to be exercised moving forward, so that Ghant doesn’t paint itself into a corner diplomatically.”

Minister of Defense George Fen then spoke. “The world we live in today doesn’t care about Old Laws and cryptic morality. It is all about realpolitik, money and power. Fact of the matter is, Zimya was wrong, because all such a move does it damage our relationship with New Edom, and quite frankly, New Edom is a hell of a lot more important then Peregrino on the global stage.”

Minister of Justice Perwyn Olyvar was next to speak. “I think that Zimya was wrong to make that declaration without talking to us or to the Legebiltzarra first. Zimya clearly is acting in her own self-interests, with a blatant disregard for the reputation of her country.”

Minister of Development Lewis Lugan spoke sympathetically. “To be fair, most Ghantish people would agree with what the Prime Minister did. Far too many politicians lie and beat around the bush on sensitive issues. She spoke her mind, and was willing to say publicly what most of her countrymen are thinking about the issue.”

Minister of Finance Charon Harlon disagreed. “This move clearly hurts Ghant’s ability to conduct business with New Edom, and will put us in a rough spot with them diplomatically. And we have loud mouth Zimya to thank for that. Because her ship is going down, she figures she might as well take everyone else down with her.”

Minister of Postage Akil Unai seemed squeamish on the matter. “I think the prudent course would have been to wait and see what everybody else says about the Peregrino issue. By coming out so early in favor of Peregrino, we either set the example for others, or we risk standing alone and bearing the brunt of the backlash. A dangerous and very risky prospect that has little reward but much to lose.”

Last to speak was Minister of Foreign Affairs Ninu Inogaru. “At the very least, there should have been some dialogue between Zimya and the New Edomite leadership first to get a sense of what they were thinking. Zimya has put her country in a difficult position now, and this could very well turn into a foreign relations nightmare. She says something stupid, and then its up to use to deal with the fallout. Typical Zimya.”

And with that, all 8 members of Zimya’s cabinet left their response.

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

Sophia was in her lounge, reading a baby book with one hand and twirling her hair in the other.

She had heard about Zimya’s declaration of recognition of the sovereignty of Peregrino. And while she agreed with the decision, she also wished that Zimya went about it differently.

Then she received a message.

“I would love an audience sometime soon at Her Majesty’s convenience, but I wondered if you might find out for me what Her Majesty thinks of the Prime Minister’s recent declaration about Peregrino…”

Sophia had to be careful. She was a careful woman, who wanted nothing more then to keep all of her bridges and not alienate anyone whom she considered a friend. So she had to choose her words carefully.

“Dear ambassador, I would love to meet with you at the Palace sometime to discuss these sensitive matters with you personally. What I think about the Prime Minister’s declaration is that it was much too hasty and ill-advised. There is a lot that we don’t know about the situation, and there are many solutions that should be explored rather then jumping straight to a declaration such as that. I believe that if everyone calms down and gets together to talk, that everyone can come to a solution that makes everyone happy. We all want the same things in life, a safe environment for our children to grow and learn, food in our bellies and tranquility. I would urge all parties to think about that, Zimya included, and I would urge her to consider the impact of her declaration on not only Peregrino, but also on our relationship with New Edom.”

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

Tiki Xibal was a busy man. He was like a shark, with the scent of blood in the water. He had a vote of no confidence coming against Zimya, and he salivated at the prospect of getting her out of the way so that he might fill the void come forced election time.

There he was, sitting in his office, when he saw the announcement made by Zimya, recognizing the independence of Peregrino.

He agreed with the decision- but he couldn’t convey that. No, he had to contrast with the embattled Prime Minister. He had to avoid association with her. She is poison.

That was when he received a message from Edomite Ambassador John Manoah.

“Hello. I hope you are doing well. I wonder if your party supports or disagrees with the Prime Minister’s recent declarations vis a vis Peregrino?”

His eyes grew wide like a hungry man who laid his eyes on a steak. He sent the ambassador a response message.

“The Conservative Party of Ghant strong disagrees with Zimya’s decision to recognize Peregrino as a sovereign state. Not only was it wrong of her to make such a decision without consulting the Legebiltzarra first, but it is also a clear breach in the strong relationship between New Edom and Ghant. Let it be known that Tiki Xibal, Leader of the Opposition, stands opposed to the Prime Minister on this matter, and wishes to extend a hand of friendship and understanding to New Edom.”

[Hittanryan]

To: Foreign MInister Benjamin Kent
From: Ambassador to New Edom David Redstone
Subject: Plebiscite

Although the Republic recognizes the ceding of the island of Peregrino to the Allied States as a gesture of reconciliation from Constantinople, it nevertheless views with considerable concern the treatment of Peregrino's population. Citizens working to deny access to your forces have aired a number of grievances against the imposition of certain Edomite laws on their island. The Allied States have promised a plebiscite with respect to the implementation of local law, but have rescinded that offer as soon as discontent appeared. Instead of working to address these grievances, the Allied States have declared martial law, seized local industry, and began monitoring private communications.

I am writing to you now to inform you that my government recognizes the grievances raised by the PIF as legitimate, and is insisting that New Edom instead hold the plebiscite immediately so that they may be addressed. This plebiscite must be island-wide, administered under observation by CPO and other independent monitors.

Since the Allied States are evidently no longer in control of many population centers in Peregrino, we have come to the conclusion that the PIF's beliefs are indeed strongly held by a substantial portion of Peregrino's population. In most cases they are simply seeking to reassert their civil liberties and push back against having cultural values fundamentally opposed to their own imposed on them against their will. Without popular approval of Edomite governance, Peregrino will descend into widespread civil unrest at a time it can scarcely afford it.

If New Edom will not make an effort to meet the Republic's terms, we may be forced to reassess its long-term viability as a stable trading partner and its compliance with international norms. This government is already concerned about the continued media blackout and allegations of abuse in Gloria Regis, in addition to the recent incidents in Damoclea.

Sincerely,
David Redstone
Ambassador to New Edom

[Novitera]

San Marco, Peregrino

Seymour leaned up against the car more comfortably while keep his head down. While the Optio hectically tried to give out orders. Things were getting bad. They were suppose to be behind lines not at the front. Seymour was no soldier but he knew the basics of fire and maneuver. The New Edomites were doing it well.

"That's satellite imagery of New Edomite and loyalist forces taken two days ago. The people I work for gave it to me to give to you and they want to give the PIF more than just pretty pictures." Seymour yelled over the gunfire. "As you might have guessed, I'm not a fucking tourist! You need to get me to PIF HQ if you ever want a chance at winning this war." He yelled further. "You going to get me there or what?!"

[Upper America]

White House, Washington D.C., United States of Upper America
"Ladies and gentlemen, we need to do something about the situation in Peregrino." President Davis Johnson says to his advisors. "I have drafted a peace treaty that could be negotiated between the two sides. I just need to convince both sides to get together, declare a ceasefire, and discuss peace."

"Sir, I do not think we will be able to pacify them. New Edom claimed Peregrino, and how do we know they'll give it up?" A female advisor speaks up.

"That's the challenge. Certainly, both sides of this conflict are to blame. New Edom has forced it's compulsory nudity laws on the island, and the militias have attacked innocent civilians. As it stands right now, there is a militia fighting for Peregrino, a militia fighting for New Edom, and the Edomese government itself. New Edom could be able to convince the Edenists to stand down, and the thought of independent will certainly pacify the Vigiles."

"It certainly sounds like a good idea, but tough to achieve." Another advisor says.

"We'll make it work. You are dismissed." President Johnson dismisses the advisors, who leave the conference room.

Johnson then heads to the Oval Office, where he loads up his computer, and types up a response to both sides.

OFFICIAL DISPATCH FROM THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF UPPER AMERICA
To: The Government of New Edom
From: Davis Johnson, President of the United States of Upper America
Subject: Peace Treaty
Encryption: Classified
We have been tracking the conflict in Peregrino, and we believe that it has gotten to a point where a compromise must be made. If you are willing, we can negotiate a ceasefire and peace treaty between you and the Peregrinos. We strongly advise that the treaty be considered.

OFFICIAL DISPATCH FROM THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF UPPER AMERICA
To: Imperator Aemilius Hosidius Geta
From: Davis Johnson, President of the United States of Upper America
Subject: Peace Treaty
Encryption: Classified
We have been tracking the revolution in your land, and we now believe that there must be an intervention in this war. We are willing to negotiate a ceasefire and peace treaty between you and the occupiers. We strongly suggest considering the treaty.

[Arbites]

To: Office of Benjamin Kent, Minister of Foreign Affairs
From: Ambassador to New Edom Jacob Lee
Subject: Peregrino

The Imperium stands behind the Allied States in the defense of its sovereign territory from terrorists and vultures from abroad. All of Peregrino belongs to New Edom, and as such is subject to Edomite law. The PIF are criminals, and must be treated as such. Those foreign powers which support them are so fundamentally out of step with all known notions of national sovereignty that they should be ashamed of themselves. Should the mayor of Fineberg be appointed by a Deadoran queen? I hardly think so.

In addition to standing by New Edom diplomatically, we are willing to assist New Edom in the defense of Peregrino from foreign incursions. Although an invasion seems unlikely at present, certain rebel sympathizers may attempt to supply rebels by sea or air. As the Norvenian situation has been resolved, the Southern Fleet under Admiral Rahal is now free to support your efforts in Peregrino in whatever capacity deemed most critical.

In His Name,
Jacob Lee
Ambassador to New Edom

[Novitera]

San Crispiano, Novitera

The CIS tolerated arms dealers as long as they did not sell to the wrong people. Bogdan Tudar sold plenty to the Consortium who were wise enough to keep a low profile in Novitera and so they let him slide. Scot got out of his bar stool.

"Not here. Come with me or I can put the cuffs on you right here. I'm sure you don't want that." He said, his tone also denoting that he was not asking.

They exited the casino and entered a black SUV with heavily tinted windows that was waiting for them in the busy street. The vehicle left the casino to drive down the rest of the strip with no foreseeable destination.

"I'm not with the Bureau and you aren't under arrest." Scot led with that. "You know what is happening in Peregrino as we speak. The people I work for want your weapons in PIF hands yesterday and they'll pay. Given your performance at the casino, I believe this is not an offer you are at liberty to resist at the moment." He said. The SUV took a right and soon enough they were well away from the strip to a more rundown part of San Crispiano. This was the part that tourists did not visit and liked to pretend did not exist.

"Can you do it?" Scot asked.

[Jedoria]

San Crispiano,
Novitera

"Alright, alright, let's just go." Tudar slurred as he got up form the bar and followed the agents towards their SUV. Oh, dear heaven, why couldn't he catch a break. He had come here for vacation god damnit. And now what, he was being arrested? For what?

No, not arrested. Why was he here then? Guns? Peregrino? What made them think he gave a fuck about Peregrino? So what if they wanted guns? Tudar listened to the man with a scowl, before finally rolling his eyes. "You want guns?" He asked. "Fine. You'll get guns."

"What kinds do you want, AKs? FALs, Galils? What about LMGs? How much ammo are we talking about? And I expect to be paid up front, good sir." Tudar didn't know what part of town they were in, but frankly he didn't give a damn. He was doing business right now. "Do you just want guns? What about RPGs, Mortars? How much ammo for those? I need specifics, not just for pay but so my factories know how much to make."

[Novitera]

To: Republic of Adiron, Secretary of State Joseph Deol
From: Office of the Chief Executor
Subject: Requesting Support
ENCRYPTED

My office has just received word that the Imperium of Arbites is offering their Southern Fleet to support the Allied States with their conflict in Peregrino. The United Commonwealth is officially neutral in regards to the Peregrino conflict but we are highly opposed to the Imperium sending over a fleet in our waters as it threatens national security. As trading partners and friends, we ask that you put enough pressure, militarily and diplomatically in Ceti to keep the Imperium Fleet out of our territorial seas. Or that you support the Commonwealth Navy if we confront the Imperium naval forces, which we shall with your assistance. Currently our naval capabilities make us unable to make demands or oppose the Imperium on the high seas. I await Adiron's response.

Office of the Chief Executor
James Trask
Chief Executor of the United Commonwealth

San Crispiano, Novitera

Scot put an arm up on the backseat of the Suv and got comfortable. "Not just guns Mister Tudar. The Peregrinos will need more than that if they are even going to make a dent." He pulled a file out and handed it to Bogdan.

1000 FIM-92 Stinger
-2000 Extra Ordinance
1000 FGM-148 Javelin
-2000 Extra Ordinance
600 RPG-7
-1000 Extra Ordinance
1200 L-16 Mortar
-10000 Extra Ordinance
6000 FN FAL Rifle
-2 million rounds ammunition
2000 L7A1 GPMG
-2 million rounds ammunition

Scot led him read over it. "That is just the first order. Can you meet our demand?" He asked.