IC: Things to do in Caracasus before you die. (MT/PMT - Dip)

by **Significance** » Fri Apr 29, 2016 3:09 am

To: Matsi

From: Governor Peace

To Premier Belismarra,
I was quite shocked to receive your dispatch, I had hoped you would arrive for this meeting, as you are one of the nations closest to the current events, those being the problems currently experienced by Menthi. I understand why you might not want to come the meeting, Flauc can come off as arrogant, self assured and slanderous, and most of all attacks the very foundation your nation is built upon. However, I hope to prove to you that non attendance is the wrong thing to do in this situation, and here is why.

Now firstly, I wish to show why you not attending due to Flauc's attitude is in fact highly dangerous. You see, while you may believe showing your disgust at Flauc will rally the international community behind you, it may not be that way. This is because with you gone, no one can truly protect your interests. If it decided, for instance, that the Nina government is to be the de jure government as Flauc hopes, and yes this may be a stretch, but, if something like that happened, you would have no control on stopping it. It would be you against numerous other nations. Now as we know, Nina becoming internationally the de jure government is pretty much impossible, but something similar could happen, and it does bring up my second point.

This is that both Caracus and the Karthos Soviet, both governments I hope I can safely say are considered your allies, will be in attendance in this meeting. Firstly, this brings up the fact that I have seen you use the word comrade, and if as I believe you see these two as your comrades, then I believe they would be ashamed at you for not attending and providing support for them, as I'm sure they would for you. This then brings up the fact that you will not be alone, there are people who have your interests close to theirs and if you stand together, the single nation of Flauc will have a much harder time of getting support from others. This brings up my third point.

The internationally community, as a whole, will dictate what happens to Menthi, not Flauc. One nation can simply not win against numerous others as I have said in regards to you. If you truly want to get across your ideas, you have to come to convince the international community you, and your friends as I pointed out, have a better plan than Flauc, and without support, Flauc is then the one who is powerless. This brings up my final point.

This is that you will be judged. If you don't attend, your not a team player as it were, and the international community will shun you later down the line. The opposite is true, if you come and convince them you are right, you will be the one they turn to in the future. It is in your best interests to not only make certain your current goals are achieved, but to lay the foundation for future talks you may have, where you will most likely be in charge, not Flauc, because the international community will respect you.

I hope I have made my point clear. Even if you don't like Flauc, even if you despise him, and I don't blame you, you must attend for the sake of yourself, your friends and the best possible outcome for Menthi you believe in. Expect to be ignored yourself if you ignore this opportunity. One final note, as much as I wish you to attend, I myself may provide support on certain matters for you, there is some things we agree on you know, that you may not get what you want. But, then again you might, and it's a better chance than the alternative. But please don't just think I'm trying to say it will go well for you, there is always a chance it won't. I hope you understand why I feel you must attend, and change your mind on the matter. If you don't, I am sorry for future events that may unfold on you, and likely will. Best of luck.
Your sincerely, Governor Peace.

by **Menthi** » Fri Apr 29, 2016 3:23 am

Malsti City

The grand building of the Menthi Embassy to Malsti shone briefly in the sunlight. The hastily put together delegation from the Karthos Soviet stood, anxiously, briefcases in hand.

Flying low over Caracasus

A Malsti helicopter had picked them up from the Soviet. The chopper, an older generation Caracasusian Armaments model, flew south, first over the border where the camps of dispossessed Menthians waited. After entering Caracasusian airspace, the chopper flew over Quoris Province’s vast stretches of jungle, towns and villages dotted in clearings, some clinging to hillsides. Tehir sprawled, momentarily enlarged with emergency housing blocks. Smoke drifting from portable generators and the refugee’s kitchens.

A Caracasusian military installation in Quoris

Other structures, clearly not designed for habitation, clung to hillsides. Many carried dishes, aerials and other communications equipment. Some bristled with banks of missiles, long metal spires, or squat metal blisters – their exact purpose unknown. Comrade Martella – hastily elected head diplomat to Malsti - wondered at them. She wondered at the sheer cost of just one of the defence hubs. The scientific knowledge, materials and labour that had gone into constructing and manning just one Hammer Anti-missile battery exceeded the Soviet’s annual production capability by an incalculable factor.

How many more could be clothed, fed and sheltered if Caracasus diverted a fraction of its military funding? How many potential artists, writers and philosophers had devoted their lives instead to this testament to military might? How many scientists had diverted their intelligence, their resourcefulness and ingenuity to developing bigger and better weapons? Would it not have been better by far if they had instead designed new medical equipment, new sources of power – new ways to automate production of goods?

War, and military might played on her mind. Her first assignment, as the ambassador to Malsti, was to secure a defence pact. The Soviet’s defences were all but non-existent. Only half of the Soviet’s militia carried firearms. One ancient Caracasusian Pachyderm Battle Tank, now fifty years out of date, comprised the Soviet’s armoured division. The tank itself was out of commission, should it be needed, trucks would have to pull it into position. Two helicopters, previously owned by rich citizens of Karthos, was the Soviet’s sole concession to an air force. The Soviet would fight fiercely, but against a foe with even basic weapons, they would eventually lose.

Malsti had an air force, and an army. She came to Malsti with nothing, any defense pact would be laughably one sided. She came to Malsti with hope – hope that their desire to see another functioning socialist state on the peninsula would prove enough for them to seek such a pact.

She had scant hours to prepare for her meeting with Malsti’s own diplomats. Time enough to get together papers, throw on clothing that was less crumpled and had something of an air of dignity about it. The meeting would begin soon, and Comrade Martella felt the weight of her people resting on her shoulders.

by **Flauc** » Fri Apr 29, 2016 6:33 am

EMPIRE OF FLAUC

To: Public
Subject: Slander directed at Flauc
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND NEGOTIATIONS

Greetings.
Malsti have recently released an extremely anti-Flauc statement.
They are slandering our nation to prevent the triumph of democracy and freedom. They claim that we are anti-communist, which we are, however, we do not impose our rule on anyone. We arrest only members of the Communist Front that are possible terrorists, and if Malsti wishes, they can come visit our prisons and courts and see for themselves, how they are treated - with care, with mercy and understanding. The Communist Party has been banned since the Civil War, and I would like you to understand that the communists committed many war crimes in our nation while the stalemate was in effect.

What is even worse is that Malsti shows the pictures of Mao, Stalin, both of which were murderers of their people and other nations, on their Official Organ of the CPM logo. What is widely known is that the revolution in Flauc was inspired by the Maoist Ideology after the Communist Chinese triumph in mainland China, who later killed off many with his policies. Stalin, the person who has killed millions of his own and other people in the gulag and Siberia. The Malsti, although not on purpose, endorses these war criminals.

Another lie that Malsti has said is that our factory owners get fat on the poor - this, once again, is not true. Our nation has a high income equality, and while factory owners do make more, it is because those jobs have larger qualifications. Please tell me, what is harder - screwing a bolt for a few hours, or controlling the factory, looking for mistakes, calling up the management and doing lots of other things. Put that together with the years our factory owners have spent on their qualifications, it amounts to a lot. The proletariat gets paid for what he does, and our factory workers get paid for what they do. Those who work in a factory can support themselves and their family, by themselves.

Your nation is currently, once again, dictating us. You are basically saying that our nation can not have any diplomatic interests in the Iberis Peninsula? We can support who we wish, and we can condemn who we wish. It is our nation, not yours, and thus, you cannot dictate our foreign policy.

However, we assure to you that we will not use our position as the host nation against other nations, but we should be allowed to have our opinion. Slandering someone because they do not agree with you is a disgraceful act, Premier Belismarra.

If these provocative actions continue and Malsti continues to slander our nation without any evidence, then we will impose a embargo on the People's Republic of Malsti.

We will not tolerate baseless accusations against our nation. We ask other nations to not be fooled by Malsti, and to come to the talks. We request that Malsti stop portraying us as the aggressor and enemy of freedom and democracy.

Cheers,
Flaucan President,
Ryūji Kurokawa.
竜司黒川

by **Malsti** » Fri Apr 29, 2016 10:56 am

Official Dispatch - The People's Republic of Malsti

The People's Republic of Malsti hereby informs the general public that there have been some misunderstandings in the past. We wish to clarify our position and help the leaders of the world to avoid repeating such mistakes in the future.

We do not believe that there is such a thing as the international community. We do not believe that governments, autocrats and dictators form some kind of supra-organization of which the PRM is part. We believe in proletarian internationalism. All people seeking a world without slaves and without masters are one, their masters are nothing to us. We firmly believe that diplomacy and negotiations are always the preferable ways in solving a problem but we don't see any room for negotiations with Flauc until they withdraw their recognition of the Nina government.

We are confident that Caracasus can represent our interests as we share the same goals. Peace, stability and freedom form exploitation. The biggest mistake that has been voiced is the idea that the internationally community, as a whole, will dictate what happens to Menthi. It will not. That's why we have recognized Menthi's government in the first place. It is the people of Menthi who will decide their future and no one else. Not some crazy monarchy nor some cartels.

Winning a multi frontier war like defeating multiple invaders from around the globe is really an achievement that is normally only reached by a communist nation as the Soviet Union, Vietnam, China and Angola have shown in the past.

We thank you all for your concerns but the meeting in Flauc does not meet our standards. When you ask if you can have any diplomatic interests in the Iberis Peninsula we like to answer your question this way: Would you please be so kind to lift the ban on the communist party and apologize for the past decades of persecution and release all the political prisoners? The people of Menthi, Masti and Caracasus think that would be a great idea.

To sum things up, the PRM will not participate in talks hold in Flauc and we will of course not accept anything negotiated there which has not been accepted by the legitimate government. As far as the PRM is concerned the Menthi crisis is mostly over. National sovereignty has been restored, the internationally recognized government has begun its work and the Nina led Coup d'état is collapsing. Everybody who is supporting a return to normality is welcome to work with us, everybody seeking to destabilize Menthi will soon find out that the will of the people that does not want to be broken can not be broken.

Premier Belismarra

by **Flauc** » Fri Apr 29, 2016 11:19 am

EMPIRE OF FLAUC

EMBARGO

To: Public
Subject: Pointing Fingers
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND NEGOTIATIONS

Greetings.
We would, once again, like to clarify to Malsti that Flauc is not imprisoning communist politicians. We are imprisoning terrorists. I have said that we invite you to inspect our facilities if you wish. The Communist Party has been banned for the terrible atrocities they have conducted during the Cold War in the Civil War, and we deserve the right to ban a political party that has previously destroyed our countryside, infrastructure and has ****, killed our people. I suggest you read upon the history of our nation. The Nanjiwa Massacre, execution of political opponents, execution of citizens, ****, have all been conducted by the communist party in the past. The Baltic States have banned their communist parties for USSR communist atrocities - why cannot we ban them for their atrocities?

The reason these socialist nations win these wars is because they steal assets from their citizens to be used in the war effort, force people into conscription, and thus dividing families and forcing kids to live without their fathers or mothers. They used the patriotism of their people and sent them to their deaths. We consider that a massacre, although, an indirect one.

Winning a multi-frontier war should not justify the killings of millions committed by Mao and Stalin, both of which have committed terrible atrocities. Mao's China also supported the Communist Party of Flauc, which led a rebellion. In this rebellion, they massacred democracy supporters and others, burned cities when retreating from the Nihonese and Flaucan Coalition forces, and slaughtered the population with their scorched earth doctrine.

We would like to clarify that Flauc has no interest in taking advantage of the people of Menthi. Our interest is to give them the choice - our official policy is to have democratic elections in Menthi, which will determine the government in the future. The means of this meeting is so other nations can propose their ideas - let it be the federalization of Menthi, or any other idea. The meeting will also debate on the reconstruction of Menthi, especially the city of Peni, which has been ravaged by the rockets of Parsoh at the beginning of the war.

Malsti has taken a very long shot in calling the conflict in Menthi "mostly over". Vigilantes and robbers run unopposed, the infrastructure is horrible, multiple factions are vying for power and nations attempt to place Menthi in their influence zone.
We seek normalization of the situation in Menthi, and would gladly work together with Malsti to restore Menthi as a proper, safe and stable nation, but you do not wish to co operate with us, which is a major problem. We ask you to let us have our own diplomatic interests, and you can have yours.

We have followed up on our promise and have issued an embargo against the People's Republic of Malsti, as they have began pointing fingers at us and are slandering us, without presenting proof, and without even listening to our side of the story. All assets of Malsti in Flauc are also to be frozen.

We still open up our hands to the People's Republic of Malsti, and if we can reach a common ground, this embargo will be cancelled. We still invite them to the meeting in Nanjiwa, so they can present their ideas - and we can present ours.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
外務省.

by **Menthi** » Fri Apr 29, 2016 12:12 pm

Por la Republica Hacia Dios

TO:Watersville
FROM:General Fenando Nina
Greetings.
We thank you for your concern regarding the standards of refugee camps. I would like to personally confirm that there is everything in perfect order with the camps run by the great and remarkable nation of Watersville. You have saved so many lives and you have risked so much, we can never in a hundred years repay you. We thank you that you have banned the Helping Hands criminals from entering Watersville. In cases like that, every little helps. Your camps in Peni are great examples of how humanitarian aid should be conducted. I can assure you in writing that your camps will neither be inspected nor visited. We have great trust in your experience and your abilities. I have ordered the security services to treat all personnel from Watersville with the same respect and the same attitude as they would treat foreign diplomats. There is a small bureaucratic problem with that, to be able to identify genuine aid workers from Watersville we have to issue new visa. I think that won't be much of a problem. We can use our old embassy for that as soon as you officially recognize the Republic of Menthi. I am really grateful for your support and your help and I hope that this cooperation can continue. I would also like to ask you if you can use your contacts in the international aid workers community to find out if it is true that the Helping Hands terrorist group did indeed give their weapons and other material to the terrorists that have taken Karthos hostage.

you can change the course of the world with a bullet in the right place.

The soldiers were trained professionals. Not those militia men who made up most of the warlords of Menthi's fighting force. Judging from the equipment those were Jarka men. And they were very far away from home. Whatever they were doing here they were not doing anything good. And they were not allowed to be here.

There was almost no wind the leaves were not moving at all. At this distance it was impossible to hit a man's head with a single shot. Hitting a moving person was already a feat not too many people were capable of performing. At this distance you had to fire in a ballistic arc, aiming high above the target.

“I am the rain that will wash away the chalk...” Snowflake was quietly taking aim. “…and when the chalk is washed away people will realize the true nature of their presents…” She gently squeezed the trigger of her rifle. “…and after the rain comes sun.”

One by one the soldiers of the Jarka government fell to the ground, screaming and twitching from the bullet wounds. Snowflake finished those that lay in a good position before she left her hiding place. Allowing Jakar to heal its wounds and recover some strength was a mistake. Indecisiveness is always a mistake. Speed was the essence of war. Every recruit learned that in Caracasus. Peni was wrong to let Jakar decide when and where they would be ready for the coming war.

If no one dares to wash away the chalk the rain will do it. It was her own decision to speed things up. If Jarkar was not willing to fight against the Carosi occupation of Menthi than they had lost all rights to leadership. Only the strong, only those willing to kill and to die are fit to rule. El toro bravo was a good boy but he was too occupied planning small scale attacks on Carosi and loosing too many fighters doing General Nina's job. Someone had to remind those in Jakar that they were all imposters lead by the worst imposter of all. General Nino wasn't even a general - he was a colonel in the Menthi Armed Forces. When the invasion began, he directly disobeyed orders to retreat to Peni, deciding instead to fight a retreat from the front line, holding off Parsohian forces long enough for several villages to successfully evacuate to the city. It was as much heroic as it was treason. Orders are not optional, there are no democratic committees in a fire fight, an order is an order and an order has to be carried out. He managed to score a couple of small victories, in one instance leading a Parsohian battalion into a ravine and ambushing them. For this he has earned the respect and love of many he managed to save. He is a good strategist and he is seen by many in the military as a capable fighter. But he is also willing to compromise and to sacrifice parts of his country for peace. Even more so he is willing to let the Bull do his dirty work and until now the boy was willing to do it. With this show of force the conflict between Jakar and Peni would soon become much more violent.

by **Significance** » Fri Apr 29, 2016 12:29 pm

To: All participants

From: Governor Peace

OFFICIAL CONDEMNATION OF MALTSI

To who it may concern,
This may come as a shock to you, that I would come out and condemn the nation of Maltsi, who I have have no trouble with so far, but they have left me with little choice after their last official statement. I hope you will understand after this letter.

You see, Maltsi has, first and foremost, gone out of their way to slander the international community, by saying we are nothing but corrupt imperialists trying to further our own agendas by attending this meeting. We find this a disgusting insult on all of us, and hope you agree. We all know we wish for a peaceful resolution to this conflict, and do not wish to harm Menthi further.

This brings me to the subject of Menthi, as after slandering the international community, he goes on to back a regime which, at the moment, is unwilling to hold elections in Menthi. Thankfully, this regime is attending the meeting and we may be able to make them participate in democracy, but the fact still remains that Maltsi does not seem to care about this democracy, and wishes for the people to simply accept their new overlords without having their freedom to say something on the matter. This is clearly a breach of human rights and hip the international community agrees that this makes Maltsi corrupt.

Finally, our sympathy goes out to the nation of Flauc, for while some of their statements in the past are controversial, and their support for one party slightly undemocratic, not only do they still hope for elections in Menthi, they are willing to hold this meeting for the benefit of Menthi and the Penisular, and have put up with insults that would make other nations cancel such a meeting. I think we all deserve to let Flauc have their say, as they have done more to help the situation than also has, and hope their planned meeting goes well for all sides. We would however advise Flauc use less offensive language when talking to other nations, as this can create tension, on the whole however, we applaud them.

With all this reasons I have stated, I once again state I have sadly come to the conclusion:

MALTSI MUST BE CONDEMNED

And hope the international community helps Maltsi realise the error of their ways, any way they see fit. We hope this incident can be resolved, and that we can eventually remove this condemnation, but for now we have little choice.
Yours sincerely Governor Peace.

by **Malsti** » Fri Apr 29, 2016 12:37 pm

Official Dispatch - The People's Republic of Malsti

The People's Republic of Malsti hereby informs the general public that if there ever was any doubt about the incompetence of the government of Flauc to run or host talks this would have vanished with their last actions. As a crypto-fascist dictatorship Flauc has only one answer to everything: violence. If someone opposes their murderous ideology they can only act violently. We are not asking for a boycott of this state but all those who do participate in any kind of talks should know that their delegates are prone to espionage or assassinations.

The 1985 law "Lex Ochoa" forbids the citizens of Malsti to establish off-shore accounts. We are glad that you will freeze the assets of terrorists and criminals that were out of reach. We never had any interest to buy the cheap knock-offs of Cardulanian or Yohannes made consumer goods in Flaucian quality. They might be cheaper than the originals but they also lack the quality of these products, often to a level were they threaten the health of the user. Flauc's long standing blind hate for everyone who has some basic understanding of human rights and equality has prevented them from engaging in business with communist states. They have nothing to threaten us with.

As a nation of peace we will not engage in symmetric sanctions even if they would only be symbolic. Flauc has shown to the world that they are incapable of hosting talks and bringing speeding the removal of the Nina Junta up.

Those supporting violence and terrorism in global politics are not better than Flauc. Our abstention from the talks has already shown the people of Menthi that Flauc has a lot of international allies who wish to help the imperialists to enslave this nation. The previous actions have shown that Nina is not a man of Menthi but that behind his rule is Flauc and the nations supporting them. The people of Menthi will decide their own future and we will continue to help them by any means necessary. They will not be fooled by anyone supporting Flauc and trying to turn them into a colony once again.

Premier Belismarra

by **Cardulan** » Fri Apr 29, 2016 1:14 pm

Delegates

To: Flauc
From:Royal Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Kingdom of Cardulan is delighted to see our loyal and longstanding ally Flauc hosting a summit as important as this one. We will send a very small delegation to deal with the issues at hand. You will be happy to learn that Lord Calion will return to Flauc for the talks. He has not visited your nation since the removal of the Macirelli regime. As the commander of the 6^th "Glamdring"Air Assault Division he participated in the Flaucian civil war and is a highly decorated soldier.

He will be accompanied by Captain Bellona Camren one of the Kingdom's best diplomats.

We think that those nations that remain absent should have the right to do so. If they don't want to take part in shaping the future of the Iberis Peninsular history will forget them.

We need no additional security as Flauc is more than able to handle a summit like that. Our delegates will arrive tomorrow and we expect that they are welcomed with full military honours.

by **Flauc** » Fri Apr 29, 2016 2:12 pm

EMPIRE OF FLAUC

To: Public
Subject: Slander
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND NEGOTIATIONS

Greetings to the international community.
You might have seen our previous statements, and we must apologize for any harsh language used against Malsti.
However, they have once again began spreading lies and have began slandering us, saying that we do not abide by international law and that we murder, kill political opponents, and that we are a fascist state.

They have also, once again, ignored all of our arguments as to why the Communist Party is banned, they have ignored all of our statements and have even came back with no proof, but with more slander and assault after we even offered them to tour our prisons and the imprisoned Communist Front members.

Malsti, once again, spits out only lies. They claim that delegates visiting are prone to assassination or espionage, but they are wrong. There are civil rights freedoms all over Flauc and as well as political freedoms are very large, and if all these rights are granted to citizens, then they will be granted to the diplomats coming.

Diplomats coming to our nation will have diplomatic immunity, which also means that we will not infringe on their privacy unless it is an extreme situation, such as a assassination attempt, and then our forces would need to break inside his room to save him.
If we were unable to host the talks, we would like to know why multiple nations, except Malsti, are attending them? They are nations that want peace on the Iberis Peninsula, and like our nation - wish to protect their interests. Once again, we have to see stupid and baseless accusations from the People's Republic of Malsti.
If we really wanted to enslave Menthi, we would have sent our military and would have occupied the area, since there would be little to no resistance after the collapse of the government of Menthi and the G.I., and Carcasus, nor Parsoh, nor Malsti or Carosi could have done anything about it because they simply can't. Of course, we do not support any invasion of Menthi and we have never have had plans for it - we want democracy in Menthi, and in the meeting, we will decide, how can we help these people get their lives back and how can we prevent future conflicts in the peninsula. Negotiations are key to peace, not the barrel of a gun.

It is also quite ironic that you call us as imperialistic, denying Menthi their will, but you yourself support the Karthos regime, thus imposing the rule of Karthos on Menthi without the decision of Menthi people, while you yourself condemn us for support of one side.

Malsti has also began branding us as cheap-knockoff producers. We will let them know that we produce one of the best quality technology and toys for children in the world, and we always abide by security standards and our customer safety in Flauc is our #1 priority.

Recognizing an nation as the de iure government is support, but we do not support the regime economically nor militarily. This proves that the government of Malsti is full of incompetent officials that probably do not even bother reading the diplomatic response of a nation before responding, thus they ignore our arguments.

You have also accused us of fascism, but I assure you that we run a democracy and that Nazi political parties are outlawed. You continue to slander, blame, all of your problems on our nation.

If the nation of Malsti does not want to decide on the history on the Iberis Peninsula, then we will let you be. If you wish to boycott this peace conference, you will not properly represent your interests. Please, keep in mind that the regulations in the meeting will be accepted by many nations, such as Carcasus, Cardulan, Significance, Parsoh, the both Menthi governments, and many other nations. We are not imposing ourselves on others, we are simply hosting a peace conference so nations and governments can talk it out with each other.

We demand a formal apology from the People's Republic of Malsti for their continuous slander and blame. We encourage all other nations on the peninsula and in the world to condemn the actions of Malsti, as they can only spit our lies and slander, and continue to do so to make us look bad on the world stage. However, we will not sink to their level and we will continue to fight for equality, freedom and democracy.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
外務省.

EMPIRE OF FLAUC

To: Kingdom of Cardulan
Subject: Attendance
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND NEGOTIATIONS

Greetings.
We are happy to hear that the Kingdom of Cardulan will be attending the peace talks. Flauc and Cardulan have, for a long time, been strategic allies and friends. We will be looking forward to the arrival of Lord Callion and Captain Bellona Camren, which must be very qualified diplomats or military commanders.

Your diplomats will be welcomed with full military honors, and the exchange of medals might be possible. We would also like to discuss our economical and military ties in the summit, behind closed doors.

We look forward to your arrival.

Cheers,
Flaucan President,
Ryūji Kurokawa.
竜司黒川

by **Watersville** » Sat Apr 30, 2016 10:17 am

Tethir, Caracasus

Joseph looked through his e-mail before getting onto his plane. He needed to do some things on the two flights that he was going to take to get to Parosh. As he flew over the sea, he works his way through the many documents and claims that had been thrown out over the entire conflict. He knew that there were peace talks that were going to be happening in Flauc. He had been waiting to see what was going on before he commented on what Watersville would be doing, but he felt that now was the necessary time. He also needed to write to the nation of Menthi. By the time he arrived in the city of Parosh, he had completed what he had set out to do.

From: The Royal House of Waters City and Watersville
To: The Public

It has come to my attention that the nation of Flauc, has come forward to hold peace talks in the city of Nanjiwa. After much consideration, we have decided that the Nation of Watersville will be attending this meeting. We will be sending two diplomats who will be tokens of our message of peace and compassion for everyone involved until I can arrive in person in less than a weeks time. We are thankful to see that many are looking for a peaceful end to this situation. We are, however, saddened to see the many disagreements that have already begun between many of the nations involved in this conflict. Have we not learned anything from the conflict in Oehiton? We must remain as peaceful as possible else we face mass destruction and devastation across the entire peninsula. We look forward to the beginnings of a peaceful resolution to this conflict and we hope to see an end to the escalation to the war of words that have begun.

With warm regards,
His Royal Highness Joseph Watters

From: The Royal House of Waters City and Watersville
To: General Fernando Nina

We are pleased to hear that you trust us and we hope that we can help to better the lives of everyone in the region. In regards to the issue net of new visas, we entirely understand and we assure to you that we recognize your government as the De Facto government of Menthi. We would like to point out that this is not a De Jure recognition of your party. This is not meant to be derogatory in any form, we just have not had enough time to ensure that everything is under control and that things seem to be genuinely improving in the region. I also look forward to meeting with your delegation in the city of Nanjiwa. We hope that we can bring a quick and speedy end to this conflict and help to quickly get Menthi back up and running.

With warm regards,
His Royal Highness Joseph Watters

Peace and Prosperity International Airport, Waters City, Watersville

The Smiths had done many different peace meetings before. Mrs. Smith looked up at her husband as they strolled through the airport toward the terminal that would allow them to get on their flight at 9 am to the Nanjiwa International Airport and the nation of Flauc. They were nervous as they checked their luggage in and boarded the commercial flight to the city. Mr. Smith then pulled out his smart phone and typed up a message to the government of Flauc to inform them that they would be arriving shortly.

To: The Government of the Nation of Flauc,

Hello my name is Gregory Smith, and I am writing to you to inform you that my and my wife, Debra Smith, will be attending the peace meetings in Nanjiwa as repersentatives of the nation of Watersville until His Royal Highness can arrive. We wish to inform you that we will be arriving on Air Asia Flight 217 at 4am tomorrow your time and that we will be alone and will not have any security of our own. We also wish to inform you that we will not need any of our own security unless you deem it absolutely necessary. We look forward to being able to meet with you and we hope that we can achieve peace for everyone involved in the conflict.

Mr. And Mrs. Smith

by **Flauc** » Sat Apr 30, 2016 11:14 am

EMPIRE OF FLAUC

To: Public
Subject: Attendance
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND NEGOTIATIONS

Greetings,
We support the agenda of Watersville. Blood should not be shed in the Iberis Peninsula, and to achieve peace, we all need to work together - instead of doing this, we are currently growing more and more distant. We extend our hand to every nation that wishes to co operate with us and a coalition of other nations.
Together, we will make peace in the Iberis Peninsula and we will ensure that democracy takes it's path.
We are still awaiting for the arrival of diplomats in Nanjiwa, and we expect to welcome & see you soon.

We call for a peaceful solution, which is not impossible - it is necessary.

Best wishes,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
外務省.

EMPIRE OF FLAUC

To: Kingdom of Watersville
Subject: Attendance
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND NEGOTIATIONS

Greetings.
We are happy to hear that the Kingdom of Watersville will be attending the peace talks. We are thankful for the fact that Watersville is supporting the people of Menthi with everything by using humanitarian support without breaking international law. We would like to confirm to you that fighter jets will escort your plane, even if it is a commercial one, and a team of five security agents will protect you at all times, unless you wish for some privacy.

Our security guards are currently awaiting the arrival of your diplomats, and we hope for their safety.

Cheers,
Flaucan President,
Ryūji Kurokawa.
竜司黒川

by **Watersville** » Sat Apr 30, 2016 5:31 pm

Parosh, Parosh

The flight had come in without a hitch and Joseph disembarked and headed to the baggage claim to pick up his bags. He then proceeded to the front of the airport, hailed a taxi, and was soon on his way toward his hotel.

Somewhere over the Sahara Desert

The Smith's were pleased to hear the response by the Flaucian Government and sent an email back to the government.

To: President Ryūji Kurokawa

We thank you for letting us know that we will be escorted by fighter jets into the airport. We will immediately inform the Pilot of the aircraft of this so he will be prepared for your escort. We also understand that security will be with us at all times and we will respect your decision. We thank you and we look forward to being able to m eat with you.

Mr. And Mrs. Smith

by **Watersville** » Mon May 02, 2016 9:07 am

100 miles off the coast of nation of Flauc

The Smiths had informed the captain of the escort that they were going to be encountering, so when the escort came up alongside the airplane, he was expecting it. They immediately made contact and were steered toward the airport. What the Smiths were not expecting was the fright of the passengers that now looked out their windows to see eight fighter jets fling just outside the plane. In less than two hours, however, the plane made their landing in the airport and the people were allowed to exit the plane. The Smiths were immediately greeted by their security personnel. They both had five apiece and they were entirely surrounded as they made their way through customs and toward the baggage claim. As they picked up their bags, they then headed toward the front of the airport. As they reached the main entrance, however, they were soon surprised to see another large group of security personnel walking toward them. The wall soon parted to reveal three figures that soon walked up and shook their hands.

by **Tekeristan** » Mon May 02, 2016 4:35 pm

To: People's Republic of Maltsi
From: Republic of Tekeristan - Ministry of Commerce
Subject: Cooperative Economic Stimulant

There is no denying that with an increasingly large global marketplace that trade matters, whether between the traditional goods or the modern industrial goods, the amount of wealth such can bring to a country is hard to ignore. Sometimes this global economic shuttle run is interrupted by poorly issued embargoes.

Maltsi's geographic position makes it a useful contender for resources outside of Tekeristan, such as sugar cane. With such, various private economic organizations and companies seek to competitively exchange and trade with the Maltsi state economy in order to expand its range of products, suppliers, and so forth. In exchange we seek eliminated tariffs on exchanged goods, smoothed economic bureaucracy, as well as eased travel of workers and professionals. Any concerns of questions can be cleared via embassy communication.

Karthos, Menthi
Helping Hands

There were a few problems on the way back home. Just a few. Ok, many.

There wasn't much in the name of diesel and quality motor oil around in Menthi these days, not to mention those darned Tekeri's just know nothing about engine maintenance. As time went on, the trucks were beginning to run out of steam. Fuel was low quality, as was the oil. The roads were in terrible shape. Now add to the fact that the trucks were still loaded down with hundreds of pounds of goods, one could begin to feel pity for the poor machines.

The first truck was lost just outside Karthos, sinking into the mud along one of the roads after an intense jungle rain. The late hours forced them to set up for the night, where some vandals took off with fuel and parts of another truck in the dead of night. When morning came, back onto the trucks they went to begin down the highway to Caracasus; only when scattered nails popped tires all along a 3rd truck and forcing the convoy to a stop. Without any other options, supplies were simply pushed out of other trucks to make room for the personnel; people they can't just leave.

Thankfully, by then they made it to the border where fresh oil and parts awaited them. But the loses were hard felt, they had to leave behind a large reserve of medicine, the solar panels, and the school supply truck. With funding already strained, this would be a blow that would set them back big time.

~~~~~~~~~~~
To: H-H-O
From: ROT-MOC-FS
Encrpytion: HIGH

A total of 2,500,000 NSD in funds have been transferred to the account.

Flauc
Sorin Groza

Sorin was the selected diplomat to be sent to Flauc for the upcoming 'negotiations' that were going to be held in Flauc. He was mostly sent as an observer, to see how things moved along with the talks. He was a somewhat experienced diplomat and his age and graying hair displayed such. He was sent with a security team of 2.

Luxuries were not required, a public airline would do. It was easy enough to forget about the noise and people with a pair of headphones and a window seat. As the flight began its long route, he tapped the screen of his device and let his music playlist do the rest for him as he closed his eyes to let the time slip away..

by **Caracasus** » Tue May 03, 2016 5:43 am

Liberation of the Peninsula day, Jevellit Metropolitan District

Revelers in one of Jevellit's main parks

Banners hung from every surface, fluttering in the mid-morning breeze. The annual holiday was celebrated across Caracasus, the day that Marduk II's rebellion really took hold. Caracasusian historians were keen to point out the importance of celebrating the event, and not succumbing to the "great person" fallacy of history. Marduk was one of nearly three hundred who had held the fortresses, after all.

Marduk II t-shirts and banners were still popular. Waved from windows, decorating the fronts of Jevellit's many communes. Traditional feast day foods were prepared the night before and allowed to simmer for hours, the streets full of the scent of spice and sweetness. Children busied themselves creating ever more intricate and beautiful chalk patterns across the facades of the buildings. Even the presence of soldiers on the streets, greater now than it had been before the start of the Peninsula troubles, could not dampen the people's spirits.

Jevellit's numerous parks crowded with people, some come from the smaller towns and villages just for today. The MagLev train network across the city packed with revelers. The weather bright and crisp, the welcoming sun glinting from the carriages of the trains and the glasswork of the buildings.

It was tradition that this day was marked by a speech by the Premier. This year, it was clear that the focus would be the peninsula. It was painfully fitting after all, the uprising had occurred in what was now Carosi and Parsoh after all. Representatives from Caracasus's numerous media communes sat, drinking and smoking various substances in anticipation. The speech would be examined, dissected and pored over for weeks to come.

The Premier was a thin man, a sparse, small black beard streaked as his hair was with grey. Unremarkable, wearing thin steel-framed glasses. Nothing in particular visually differentiated this man from any other Caracasusian.

"On this day, two hundred and twelve years ago, a group of escaped slaves, refugees from oppressive empires and members of several tribes came together, united under one purpose; to throw off the chains of oppression. They fought, they organised and they planned. Proving once and for all that the people, fully united, cannot be defeated. On this day, two hundred and twelve years ago, a group of people stood, together and shouted We will not serve!

With crude weapons and a small arsenal stolen from their former masters, these people managed what was thought to be impossible. They drove out the imperialist colonial forces that had pillaged their land for a century. They won back their country. If they had fault, it was that they then turned their back on the world, believing that they had won. Their lesson, sorely learnt at the hands of the next empire to invade the country, was one we have not forgotten here in Caracasus; the struggle for self-determination and freedom is not one that can be won for all time. It must be protected, it must be expanded and it must be kept alive.

The Peninsula today is different. After decades of war, it was hoped that some semblance of order would return. As it stands, Parsoh continues to exploit its position for the gain of the very few at the expense of the masses. Carosi continues to remain a terrifying enigma without an answer. Menthi has fractured, with the Karthos Soviet and promises of elections offering but a faint gleam of hope. Malsti alone stands secure on the peninsula.

As strenuous as it can be, we must not make the mistake of the first brave revolution. We must not turn our backs on the world. A delegation from Caracasus will be in attendance at Flauc, to ensure a multilateral agreement for the whole peninsula. An agreement that works, and that will carry the peninsula out of the chaos it currently rests in.

The economic sanctions on Malsti enforced by Flauc will prove, I hope, to be short lived. Malsti exports quantities of bauxite and malachite for sale on the international market as well as for the communes of Caracasus. Even now, the chaotic market driven economies of the world feel the weight of Flauc’s embargo. Prices for aluminium ore have risen, as have prices for other rare earth metals. It is, as it always is under such systems, the workers who suffer. Factories have begun to lay off staff, shipping companies have closed down warehouses. Across the world the effects of the embargo are felt by workers who must return home, who must tell loved ones that they can no longer afford to pay mortgages, that they can no longer afford quality foodstuffs. We call upon Flauc to remove such sanctions, and to undo some of the damage that economic warfare can wreck. Not every country is fortunate enough to have an economic model robust enough to protect everyone against such fluctuations.

Following referendums issued over the last year, both within Caracasus and Malsti, it is my pleasure to announce that the long process of Malsti’s membership within the United Socialist States of Caracasus can begin. It is expected that the finalization of treaties could take over a year, and as yet no permanent date can be set. As an expression of the bonds between Caracasus and Malsti, and in light of recent hostilities on the Peninsula, a vote among the armed forces will be taken today. It is expected that two detachments of Caracasusian soldiers will leave for Malsti within a week, joining Caracasusian personnel already within the country. This group will ensure borders between Malsti and Carosi remain intact."

by **Significance** » Tue May 03, 2016 6:53 am

Governor Peace had heard the first of the other delegates had arrived. While he was slightly disappointed in the fact it would be the unarmed nation of Watersville, he still thought it necessary to start 'operation friendship' as he called it. For while Watersville had no army for the inevitable war, but at this time they had a voice, and the more voices he had, the better army alliance he could likely convince to join him. Of course, he'd not thought about Borris in this equation.

"Hello, hello, nice to meet you!" Borris said, vigorously shaking the Smiths hands. "I've been waiting to meet you, I heard you had no army, which seems strange, I can hardly believe a country could survive without an army, what with all the threats in the world today". Peace rolled his eyes, and quickly moved Borris to his side. Then spoke himself "I apologize for Advisor Borris, he can get a little.....excitable....but, he is also a very caring person and is my go to when wondering about the morality of something I'm doing". He then saw the Smiths looking at the third member of the group "And that is Advisor Penny, who while she has not been working very long with me I have found to be.....very opinionated.....although, that is not a bad thing when needing a different perspective on the matter". He let Penny shake their hands before continuing "and of course I am Governor Peace, leader of Significance" and finally he shook their hands himself "now, hopefully this hasn't been too overwhelming for you but I am hoping we could talk somewhere a little more private, so if you'll just follow me".

Peace walked with the new arrivals to his new rented car, who were still a little shocked and didn't appear to speak. They were in for yet another surprise when they saw the black limo, and were quickly ushered inside along with Peace and company. The security teams had their own SUVs to ride in and would form a convoy with the limo, although 2 of Peace's own security team from Flauc were in the front of the limo, but they were still separated by sound proof glass. As the convoy set off Peace spoke again.

"I see you like the limo, I must admit when I saw it was available to rent I snapped it up, it has a good presence don't you think. However, enough about myself, the reason I came to see you Mr and Mrs Smith was an idea of mine to interact with all the delegates before the meeting, as I believe even if we will disagree during the meeting, it can't stop being friends wouldn't you say. And if we are all friends I believe we will endeavour harder to find a diplomatic solution. So, with that, why don't we begin listening to you, I must admit sadly I know little about you, so you can start with that".

Still a little in shock, the Smiths realised Peace was now waiting for a reply.

by **Caracasus** » Tue May 03, 2016 10:17 am

Nan-Jiwa - Flauc

Lost in translation?

Culture shock. The delegates from Caracasus experienced, in a small way, exactly how the refugees from Menthi and Carosi must have felt entering and living in Caracasus.

The buildings were jumbled, haphazard glass and steel monoliths to consumerism. Neon tubing and flickering adverts filled the sky, far as the eye could see. A sea of light broken up with silent glass icebergs of buildings. For a Caracasusian, whose only real experience of advertising came from the occasional television show or movie pirated from the internet, this came as a monumental shock, information overload. Flaucians had spent generation after generation harbouring an inbuilt immunity to such adverts, discounting them and pushing them further back into the subconscious. For a Caracasusian? It was impossible to ignore. A chaotic jumble of words and pictures, urging the recipient to buy, buy, buy.

Public transport was where the Caracasusians felt most at home; Flauc’s public transport network was everything a public transport network needed to be. Fast, clean and reliable. Tickets had long been replaced with travel cards, the idea of a card representing the still baffling concept of money not tied to labour was more at home to them than the shops. It gave those Caracasusians some breath of fresh air, some space to collect themselves.

Such shops! International affairs had granted them an amount of Flaucian currency for the purposes of the visit. Many had given up trying to apply Caracasusian economics to Flauc, though a few tried in vain. A shoe shop, in particular, caused something of a headache. In Caracasus, labour vouchers earned were exchanged for goods such as shoes. These shoes would cost a certain amount of vouchers depending on how long the shoes had taken to manufacture, or how rare the materials were. Here in Flauc? Two Caracasusians stood, befuddled and loudly arguing with each other. These trainers were eight times the price of these, but why? Both were machine manufactured, both appeared to be made from the same materials…. And both were embossed with graphic designs and symbols. What made one symbol more valuable than another? And why were Flaucians paying to advertise the manufacturer of their shoes for them?

To make things worse, Sanjay Bashir had retreated to his room in the Caracasusian Embassy and had not come out. He was waiting, he said, for precisely the right time. As the delegates made their way towards the meeting place, some clutching oddments and souvenirs, they wondered, dreading exactly what the famous satirist had in store.

by **Parsoh** » Tue May 03, 2016 12:13 pm

President Jarthos, upon approach to Flauc

His ceremonial uniform itched somewhat, and the persistent throbbing in his legs added to the President’s discomfort. His aides surrounded him, two distinct categories. There were the civilians, dressed in soft woollen suits, carrying briefcases of documents and constantly talking in hushed voices regarding this or that treaty, or next quarter’s forecasts for growth. Then there were the militia. No suit tailored could fully contain the aura of menace and barely suppressed violence they projected. They sat, idle, as the little people scurried two and fro with their plans.

Plans! Curse that fucking upstart Jatti! Why could he not be merely content with his current position? The man had been seen in meetings with various supporters, canvassing opinions. The man’s talent for bullshit and red tape knew no limits. He had announced several contracts to the press, including the Yohannes shipbuilding consortium deal, whilst Jarthos’s people were still banging their heads against a wall of obscurification from the Trade Department. Jatti’s aim was clear; he wanted the Presidency. He’d courted the people, the media... He’d been seen approaching Jarthos’s supporters – putting pressure here and there…..

Well no more! That treacherous snake might play whilst Jarthos was dealing with Flauc but when Jarthos got back… he planned to unleash a tidal wave of monumental shit against Jatti. He still had the Cartels, he still had most of the senate. Once he was done, Jatti would be thankful for a diplomatic position to the arse end of nowhere! No-one crossed Jarthos. He was old, yes, but he was mean. A lifetime in the cutthroat (often literally) world of Parsoh’s politic had honed his senses. This trip would be good for his position – let that idiot overplay his hand. Draw out some traitors from the woodwork. On his return there would be a reckoning…..

by **Flauc** » Tue May 03, 2016 1:34 pm

BACK IN THE USSR

The most powerful weapon on earth is the human soul on fire.
Ferdinand Foch

The Karthos Soviet. You could say it, at this moment, was currently a dream in the minds of multiple socialist politicians. It is a dream, since the only thing keeping it alive now is the flood of resources from Malsti and Carcasus. If only this peninsula wasn't infested with the socialist headache, then their jobs would be much easier - maybe, they would not even have came here. But it's nice to have a vacation once in a while, isn't it?
A bad vacation. It's a bad 'hotel' and you even have to work for this. The rooms are sloppy, and you can hear the neighbors talking even if you are 2 rooms apart, and you can hear the drunk man stomping the floor one floor above you.

But, it's a dream in the works. You can forget it, but sometimes you remember it and it lives on. It is our job to stall, or in the best conditions, to stop it.

Fukuyo then woke up and sat up in his bed. He then looked at Aikawa, and she was still sleeping. Well, it was 6:47AM, so he wasn't surprised. He slipped outside and put the covers over Aikawa. She has round.. what, no, you are on a mission.
He opened his suitcase, and whopped out his laptop. It had a bit of battery left, but he had to check the mission once again, and he also needed to see if there were any updates. He knew there would be no internet here, so he was prepared. He attached the portable WiFi, no matter how dangerous it was. He needed to attain the information.

He linked up with the HQ and began communicating. He saw an unopened message, opened it, and began reading the contents of the message:

NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE SERVICE OF THE EMPIRE OF FLAUC
대한민국국가정보원, 국정원

Subject: Readmission
Encryption: Confidential

Agents operating in the Karthos Soviet, respectively, callsign "Lovely Child" Reiko Aikawa and "Glorious Hero" Akio Fukuyo are transferred to Special Team "THANATOS". Special Team "THANATOS" is the hybrid team of the NIS, which is responsible for espionage, assasination, as well as the distribution and creation of propaganda.

Special Team "THANATOS" currently with officers "Lovely Child" and "Glorious Hero" are to report situation update to Nanjiwa Central HQ within 6 months. Currently, negotiations will be occurring in Nanjiwa between the conflicting parties, thus, we hope that no rash moves are made by Special Team "THANATOS".
Attempts to destabilize the peace negotiations will be met with the charge of high treason.

Of course, it wasn't the whole message. It also told them how to do it, what they will do after they acquire their information, and what they are to do.
Aikawa began to wake up, and after waking up, Fukuyo explained the situation.

Aikawa was surprised. The Nanjiwa HQ made a special division for the operations in Menthi? This doesn't happen if they expect the conflict to be small, which much mean that the NIS is preparing to keep us here for as long as they need. What made it even scarier, was the fact that Thanatos meant the daemon personification of death in Greek mythology.

After a few hours of debating on their next move, they decided to go to the soviet work thing. They stepped outside of their houses, with some boots and shirt with shorts on, while Aikawa had a skirt and a shirt. However, under those were hidden pistols to be used if needed. They walked towards the material stacking place, and began their work.

It would end at the end of the day, and then they would go on their venture to search for people who would.. help them, I guess.

NANJIWA

The airport was pretty big. The jets flew in and out, the sound pollution was high, but if that is your excuse, then by logic, you shouldn't even drive a car or bike.

As the representatives from Carcasus, Parsoh, Watersville, Significance and other nations began to approach the airport in their jets, they were followed by two to three military jets, and then they were let to land. The airport had an increased military presence, as soldiers were outside to ensure the safety of diplomats.

When they stepped out, their personal security teams of three people approached them, greeted them, and then they were hushed into black cars with tinted windows, and asked where they wanted to go. The sounds of the sirens could be heard kilometers away as the police and NIS cars blared their sirens as high as they could, and the occasional military HMMV that followed the convoy, with military soldiers inside.

That is how it works here. If you visit, everyone is serious.
Shops were filled with people but they averted their eyes from the items of capitalism to the cars with tinted windows, as they had a chance to sneak a look at a presidential/diplomatic escort. Some even think that more cars escort the diplomats than cars escort the president on his daily work.

However, in some allies, screams of pain could be heard, because the mafia activity increased in the past weeks. You could see the occasional "KEISATSU - POLICE - KEISATSU - POLICE" tape around some alleyway, but it wasn't that common. Crimes like beatings usually happened in winter, but the times where people would be kidnapped and stuffed in a trunk of a car were now - the summer. They sold humans, their organs or even themselves as slaves or something like that. There was large threat of capturing a diplomat and making the government pay to get him back, but surely, that wouldn't happen. I hope.

by **Watersville** » Tue May 03, 2016 5:04 pm

Nanjiwa, Flauc

The Smiths were surprised to say the least to meet the delegates from Significance. The first one of them to speak was a very tall and broad shouldered man who immediately shook the Smiths' hands. "Hello, hello, nice to meet you! I've been waiting to meet you. I heard you have no army, which seems strange. I can hardly believe a country could survive without an army, what with all the threats in the world today." Before the Smiths could speak, the other man who was not quite as tall as the first man, but who did look more professional intervened. "I apologize for advisor Borris, he can get a little" he paused for a brief moment before continuing, "excitable." Here, there was another short pause. "But, he is also a very caring person and is my go to when wondering about the morality of something I'm doing." The Smiths then waited for him to introduce the woman of the group to them, which he quickly did. "This is advisor Penny, who while she has not been working very long with me, I have found her to be,". This time the pause was a bit longer, as if he was trying to think of the correct word to use to describe her with, "very opinionated, although that is not a bad thing when needing a different perspective on the matter." He then went on to introduce himself as the leader of Significance, Governor Peace. The man then led them toward the front door and they were shocked to see a black limo waiting for them. As soon as they saw it, they immediately stopped and paused for a moment before continuing very slowly. As Mr. Smith entered the limo, he looked back to make sure that the security were aware of where they were going which they were. As soon as they got in, the limo began to drive. They awkwardly looked around the cabin, realizing that this was the first time they had actually ridden in a limo. Governor Peace spoke once again. And soon, he asked about them. Mr. Smith began first. "Oh, well I am Gregory Smith and this is my wife Debra Smith. Uhm. Well, when I am not doing peace meetings, I am teaching Political Science at the University of Waters City. My wife, she works at the University as well as an upper level Geography Professor." Here, Mrs. Watters chimed in. "I am from the city of Charles Town, in the north of the country, while Greg here is from Ft. Lucius, which is on the southernmost island." Before they continued, Advisor Borris looked at the couple with a confused look on his face and before Governor Peace could stop him, Borris asked "I thought you guys didn't have an army, why is one of your guy's cities named 'Fort Lucius'. Governor Peace faceplamed, but Mr. Smith took no notice of that. "Well, it is quite the long story, but I think it will help to bring to light many things that make us who we are today." Mr. Smith shifted in his seat as he began to tell the story.

"In the 17th century, the British were looking for places to colonize, and one of those places that they found was the Islands that now make up Watersville. The first city that the British founded was the city they called Ft. Lucius, which it is still called that to this day. Soon settlements spread across the island. The people who moved to the island first were people who the British government were persecuting, and so the British allowed the island to have relaxed rules, for a price of course, that allowed the people to elect a government that could pass laws. One of the first things this government did was to reach out to governments all across the world. They soon made several alliances and the first. Bill they passed was that residents of the islands could no longer serve in the military and that no military would be allowed access to the islands. It was this that caused problems for the British. As time went on, the government that was in place passed more and more of these bills to ensure that the British would not try to take back their rights. It wasn't until 1950 when the nation finally passed a law stating that we were an independent nation. At that time, the monarchy was chosen to be the Watters Family and King William took the crown. William had a son, whom he named Joseph. William was not a very nice man, however, and he made some terrible mistakes. When he died in 1997, the nation almost threw out Joseph and his wife, along with their 4 year old daughter. Joseph, however, convinced the people to give him a chance, and a referendum was set to take place one year after he took power. Things were not easy for Joseph, as there were many countries that he needed to make amends to, the nation stripped funding too the army and instead tried to help those in need more. In that year, Joseph helped to rebuild the nation and his popularity skyrocketed. In the referendum, the nation voted to keep the monarchy by an extremely large margin and things haven't really changed."

Mr. Smith stopped talking and the car went silent. Mrs. Smith spoke up. "Well, what were we saying? Ah, yes, we were discussing about ourselves. Well, I am actually a distant cousin of the princess herself as my grandmother's brother-in-law was the step brother of the late Queen Greta, who was Joseph's mother, who died in the 1980's." Mr. Smith looked up. "Ah! It looks like we are pulling up to the hotel!"

by **Balagan** » Tue May 03, 2016 5:19 pm

Removing a crime boss, even a mighty one, was not an impossible task. This game was not about removing pawns, it was about replacing them. The difficult part was to let the retired gangster's competition know who had paved their way and what was expected of them. Violence was always a useful tool in a game like this. It was almost as important as subterfuge and knowledge but often a bit more permanent.

Contacting the Broken Knives in Parsoh City was like looking up a name in the phonebooks. They were all over the city and they did not try to hide that fact. It was much more difficult to find out what the deals between the syndicate and the governments were like. The Broken Knives had tried to secure parts of Menthi for themselves but the government had a better offer, the troops pulled out and the mafia clans were compensated or got other deals. Easy money, but not exactly what they had hoped for. Old school gangsters could try to sell this as an easy victory with low risks but for those business men who were trying to become big players this was a huge setback in legitimizing their operations. And this was the exact spot where the crowbar would be applied. Now the significant part of the game was to wait for the right time and not to hesitate when the right time had arrived.

Parsoh is a huge city, easily capable with competing with the metropolitan areas around the globe, most of the times Parsoh will easily win these competitions. The city is rich and it has no undeveloped areas surrounding it that soak up millions without contributing to society. It was a capitalist paradise that did everything right, as the only deep water port with prostitution, gambling, drug dealing and human trafficking it was preferred by most sailors and it was indeed a gangster's paradise. Parsoh was known as the city where you could get everything for the right price. This also means that the high and mighty of the city were well aware that their enemies could always find a non-citizen who would be willing to assassinate them for a hand full of Silver Bits. They all had their secret services and all of them were better protected than most heads of state. Simply assassinating one of the bosses blocking a desirable outcome was difficult and impractical. Persoh was crowded with mercenaries, fugitives, professional assassins and soldiers of fortune. Bringing in specialists to do the job would not have been the problem. It had never been easier to buy heavy, military grade weapons in Parsoh than after the pillage of Menthi. Many of the low ranking soldiers sold their souvenirs on the market and there were parts of Parsoh where you could get the feeling that it was easier to buy a rocked launcher than a bowl of noodles. Violence always conjures more violence and if you want a cartel to appear particularly strong and resourceful you don't assassinate a prominent member and make the whole group appear vulnerable. This could backfire even further if the group appeared weak because they failed to retaliate. Another problem was that while you could go undetected for some time, the nature of Parsoh made it easy to trace your actions back to you. Myriads of cameras, informers and networks of spies and free lance investigators called Parsoh their home, the same people who would sell you a rocket launcher for a few Silver Bits would sell you too.

With violence off the table the Broken Knife Syndicate was the natural choice as the first target. They were run by the right men who put their bets on the wrong horse. The Mortics were the opposite. They were run by the wrong men, though as the smaller group they might follow the Knives lead if the pieces were beginning to fall into place.

The first move was to contact the Knives and to use the agents to bring up the topic of Jarthos' betrayal again and again. He had promised to lead them away from prostitution, gun running and drugs to airports, pharmaceuticals and hedge funds. He had delivered the money, or at least some of it, but he had failed to deliver the immunity, the respect and the legitimacy. He had sold their share to some crazy, incompetent megalomaniacs who's plans collapsed with the first glimpses of resistance. It was time to convince the bosses of the Knives that Jarthos's success was based on luck and nothing else. It was pure coincidence that his plans had been successful so far, he would never be able to repeat a success like that. It was time for the Broken Knife Syndicate to realize that Parsoh might end up bordering Caracasus if the Karthos Soviet would take over the nation. It was time for the Syndicate to realize that they were backing the wrong man.

Revolutions show the will of the people like nothing else. The celebrations for the slave rebellion on the peninsular were on their peak when the ships from Balagan arrived. To celebrate the victory of the people more than two hundred years ago and to encourage all those who were fighting for freedom today, the ships would participate in the parade of military ships that would mark this special day.

by **Cardulan** » Wed May 04, 2016 2:36 am

Honour to whom honour is due.

Flauc

For Bellona it was the first time in the Empire of Flauc, The honour guard was performing well and the airport looked as if it could comply with most modern standards. She walked the red carpet in tune with the national anthem – her uniform in top shape she saluted the commander of the guards before she left the airport in an armoured car.

The protocol for the first day was easy. Greeting the hosts, visiting the shrine dedicated to the victims of communism and the heroic fighters against it – leaving flowers and a speech – distributing some medals amongst those Flaucinas who were particularly meritorious in promoting the friendship between Flauc and Cardulan. The orders for the following days were much more complicated but she would follow them to the letter. The minister had personally instructed her – the Kingdom's position on the future was set in stone. No one could change anything about it. She sight when she finally reached her hotel room. It had been a long but successful day – tomorrow the negotiations would start and the real work would begin.

Menthi
Whether or not the men were surprised by the sophisticated underground complex could not been told from the stone cold expressions on their faces.

"Our directive is to remain undetected and to investigate." Said the old Salamander. "We are map and compass guys. Cardulan has her own navigational satellite network called Eärendil - we are fully independent from other nations in that aspect. But like all other global positioning systems Eärendil devices can be detected. We leave the electronic tricks to you. We leave for the caves now. There is another unit - marines - operating in Menthi. They are here on a more aggressive mission. Right now I believe them to be somewhere near Jarka." For the first time the men in the unit smiled.

"Man! That was something. When Ganos Lao heard the rumours about the Royal Marines moving to take them out their regime imploded." The men all give a laugh. "Their royal house might be related to the Emperor of Carosi. Few people have ever heard about them outside their own palace but this has changed now. They will forever been known as the second empire that has been defeated by Menthi."

The old Salamander signals his subordinate to stop. "We are not here to talk politics. Your men - " He looks at the commander of the Guerillas "- should contact the Marines with that information. They Can track those men and take care of them if need be. We will keep an eye on them too but we will not engage - our focus are the caves."

by **Parsoh** » Wed May 04, 2016 5:26 am

Headquarters of The Broken Knife Syndicate

The fish swam, lazily. The tank was impressively large, backlit with subtle lighting so as to cast a watery aquamarine sheen across the opulent offices of Broken Knife Syndicate’s C.E.O. Two or three of the fish idly watched Khassim as he sat in the overstuffed armchair. The faint scent of tobacco smoke permeated the room. “Does everybody smoke in this damn city?” Khassim wondered to himself. The artwork on the walls mirrored somewhat Balagan’s trade mission – abstract for the most part. One showed a pattern of diagonal, parallel lines framed on red and orange. The effect was striking. The painting was also hung upside down…. Khassim smiled to himself. The mistakes of new money…..

The C.E.O was late, of course. A first move in a game. A game that Khassim knew well. He arrived, dressed in a discretely expensive finely tailored suit. They exchanged pleasantries, the C.E.O offering Khassim coffee, which he politely declined. Had he accepted, no doubt he would find himself in the embarrassing position an hour later of asking for the bathroom… and subsequent loss of decorum.

The C.E.O stood, walked over to the huge tank of fish and began to shovel pellets of food from a silver urn designed for the purpose. The fish swam greedily as the pellets sunk into the water. It was disquieting, something obscene about the miniature feeding frenzy.

“I see Parsoh a little like these fish. You know them?”

“The three there are some kind of… piranha?”

The C.E.O smiled (patronizing bastard Thought Khassim). “Very good Mr Khassim! Very good! Yes, they are close relations to the piranha. They are not like the films you see, they will not eat you alive – they are timid creatures, preferring already dead carcasses. Of course, if they are starved…. If they are starved Mr Khassim – then they will be like the piranhas in the films.”

The C.E.O strode to the desk. “Look at these reports… we were told that Menthi would be a golden opportunity – a licence to print money! Now what do we have? A backer pulls out and… nothing from Jarthos. The communists set up shop in our territory and… nothing from Jarthos. Jarthos is not feeding us Mr Khassim. He is not feeding us at all. Now, I am a reasonable businessman.”

”No, you are a thug in an expensive suit who glorifies in petty analogies to justify his cruelty. You are, through some bastard trick of fate, the tool I must use. So I must play along.” Khassim thought to himself

The C.E.O continued in this vein for some time. Finally, speaking to Khassim, not himself. “What is clear here is that Jarthos has failed to deliver. What is less clear is exactly how removing him will help or hinder us. We are having… problems with the Mortic family at the moment. They are attempting to run protection rackets – petty things – on real estate we control. If you and Mr Jatti could… persuade them to cease this behaviour, just maybe Mr Jatti would appear more preferable to my shareholders.”

Khassim shook hands with the man, the C.E.O called a secretary to see him out. As Khassim left the C.E.O called out to him.

“Oh, Mr Khassim! Thank you for not mentioning the picture. Did you know most guests delight in informing me of my little faux pas?”

by **Tekeristan** » Wed May 04, 2016 6:47 am

4/5/2016
Tekeristan Oehition war-crimes investigation continues

The Tekeristan Ministry of Internal Affairs has publicly announced today that they will continue war-crime investigations for the Oehiton conflict perpetrated by the previous Soviet regime that had once controlled Tekeristan.

The Oehiton conflict is regarded as one of the most extended conflicts in recent history, bringing several larger nations close to the brink of war and potentially nuclear exchange. Many war crimes were committed by various sides in the conflict, from travelling death squads to illegal arrest of civilians. While the Soviet regime was removed from Tekeristan shortly after in the 1989 Tekeristani Revolution, no investigations were held regarding war crimes in Oehiton until now.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs have released a report in which has stated they have made 12 arrests and currently have convictions on 6 of the suspects. While the names of the 6 suspects have not been released to protect their families, they are expected to face trial in an International hearing on May 9th. The report published by the Ministry of Internal Affairs is available online, however, several areas of the report have been classified until after the completion of the trials and investigations.

The Tekeristan Ministry of Foreign Affairs have sent a formal invitation to the Kingdom of Cardulan to send a representative to oversee investigations and the following trials as well as a meeting of diplomats in either the ongoing meetings in Flauc or in the nation of Caracasus. An invitation has also been released to the nation of Caracasus to oversee investigations.

IC: Things to do in Caracasus before you die. (MT/PMT - Dip)

(Now it's time to go do a bunch'a homework!)

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