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

[Balagan]

The Palace, Significance

Özcan Demirtaş was dressed in a civilian suit as he marched past the honor guard in Sigificance. The Treaty of Saruwa was something different. It was negotiated by most parties involved in the conflict and it worked. Balagan had been accused of breaching it and he would be in a difficult situation. He admired the beautiful architecture of the palace.

"Let us begin this meeting with a minute of silence for all those who have lost their lives in this conflict." He said, before he waited a full minute until he did continue.

"I am here today because of Balagan is accused of having breached the Treaty of Saruwa. At first sight this might appear so but I ask you to look at the details. We need to star to investigate the story from the beginning and not from the end. This story begins with the death of a great statesman. General Maezawa was most likely assassinated on his way from Caracasus. Shot down with a missile. There is not the slightest evidence linking Caracasus, the Cult of Ganesha, the Jews or the Freemasons to this heinous crime. Numerous nations tried to launch independent investigations into that incident. Yet the usual sources are filled with conspiracy theories, each one more insane and absurd as the last one. The new leader in Flauc has outright rejected all attempts to investigate the incident. A clear breach of Article I as you will realize later."

He pauses to bring up a map of the Hepp Pass area.

"Instead of investigating the death of the great general Meazawa, mister Marela kept blaming Caracasus for the death and finally triggered a war close to the area of the plane crash. Mysteriously the wrack and with it all evidence did vanish."

He sights. "I know that all of you had the military expertise to predict the outcome of this undertaking. I am not here to gloat today I am here to find a solution for a problem that is going on for much too long. The war, as was completely predictable, triggered a series of events that led to a total state of civil war in Menthi. This series of events was triggered purposefully and planed by Flauc. This attack and its results indeed were an aggressive action against Balagan, Parsoh, Menthi, Significance and Watersville. This attack was a clear breach of Article I."

He looks at the other delegates and gives them time to remember the dangers all their nations were in following this reckless action.

"Chaos took over Menthi, the border area was controlled by insurgents who made trade impossible. They destroyed the infra structure and neither Flauc nor Menthi were able to prevent these aggressive actions against Parsoh. Their unwillingness and incompetence to uphold and enforce Article I are responsible for our actions. We had to retake this area and put it under control. As Watersville can confirm, this region is the worst off in Menthi."

Pictures of the chaos and the suffering along the border appear.

"As we have stated so often before, Balagan values the treaty. We are ready to leave Menthi as soon as control is re-established over the border areas."

Naval Base, Parsoh

Denktash smiled. "Thank you old comrade, well, from my point of view Flauc has already snapped. There is no reason appeasing them. The longer they stay in Menthi the more desperate the situation will become. I do not dislike Flauc, I have a lot of respect for them. Meazawa was a good general and a competent leader. Marela is just crazy and weak. He is not going to last very long. Unfortunately he is one of those guys who want to see his people go down in flames with him. He needs to be contained. I am not opposed to Significance taking over peace keeping duty in Menthi. You will not launch missiles at civilian shelters murdering thousands of innocent diplomats like Flauc did. The problem with trade is that we can not do much more than to guard the humanitarian goods. The area behind the security corridor is controlled by terrorists and bandits. You need to talk to the FMLN if you want commerce between Parsoh and Menthi revived."

[The Yuktobanian Republic]

Cinigrad, Yuktobania

"There seems to be a conference, sir."

Artyom turned in his chair, looking at his adviser. "Really? From who?"

"Significance, one of the countries present at the peninsula." The adviser said, holding his clipboard. "They're hosting a conference."

Artyom raised an eyebrow, then looked at his desk. "Seems interesting. It would be best if we send an observer."

"Well, sir, there is a problem with that." The adviser said.

"Hm?"

"We must message Significance, and we also don't have an observer."

Artyom thought for a few seconds. There were no available people to send over to Significance for the meeting, unless he thought of somebody. He couldn't send a general over, since most of the generals were on leave, and he didn't want to bother them. He couldn't send some soldiers either, since that would not only be very suspicious, but also make Yuktobania seem like a dictatorship on the world stage, not like soldiers had a sense of diplomacy anyway. He continued thinking.

"Sir?" The adviser asked.

Thinking for another bit, he then had an idea. He remembered that the Cruiser Dromodesev was on it's way to the peninsula, originally to help the Destroyer November Offensive in patrolling around that area. Not only that, but he also remembered that the Dromodesev was equipped with an Artificial Intelligence System, capable of making itself a physical form, a so called "Mental Model". They could experience anything a human could feel, like pain, sadness, and all other forms of emotions. They were essentially humans, and they were wonders of Yuktobanian Engineering.

"Nona."

The adviser tilted his head. "Sir?"

"The Cruiser Dromodesev is equipped with a highly advanced AI. We could send her." Artyom smiled. "Although we would have to brief her on it, since it's a drastic change of mission."

The adviser blinked. "The AI, sir? What if something goes wrong?"

"Nothing will go wrong, trust me." Artyom nodded. "Go call D-12 command and tell them what I said. I'll write the message to Significance."

The adviser nodded as he walked out the room, holding his clipboard. As he left, Artyom started writing.

To: Significance
From: President Artyom Zvertoyam
Due to pressing circumstances regarding other conflicts around the world, I am unable to send a formal delegate to the meeting in Significance. Due to this, I ask that Yuktobania be able to spectate the conference, since Yuktobanian Influence is not large in that region. For this matter, I will be sending a person by the name of "Nora Dromodesev" to the meeting, if I am accepted. This person is not actually a person, per say, or an actual human being. She is an Artificial Intelligence, and she not only represents experimental technology, but also one of the most powerful ships in the fleet.

You may wonder why I must sent a delegate that is an AI to the meeting. Since it is a simple observation, It will be seldom that she will actually speak, since she will only be there to represent Yuktobania in the affairs. This can also be proven since Yuktobania has not involved in the region much, with the only involvement being the interaction with the blockade. With this, I hope that our presence will surely not alter anything that is brokered at the meeting.

Yuktobanian Cruiser Dromodesev

Nora silently looked out at the expanse of the ocean. It was quiet, the only noise being the low hum of the engine behind her as the cruiser continued on it's way. Trying to stave away the boredom of being out at sea. As she opened a holographic screen in front of her face, a message popped up, addressed to her from Yuktobanian D-12 Command.

".... Redirect to Significance?" She raised an eyebrow. "I'm now the delegate for Yuktobania to an important meeting? How fascinating."

As she slid the holographic screen aside, she pulled up another holographic screen. This one showed the engine controls and the output of thrust for each propeller. Swiping to the left, the Dromodesev started to turn to the left, towards Significance.

It was time to go.

[Caracasus]

Internal Security - Air Incident investigation

Putting the puzzle together

The huge hangar had once housed airships ready for repair, before the commune responsible for such duties had voted to focus instead on maintaining a smaller fleet of airships. In its uppermost rafters, great lamps hung. Metal walkways crisscrossed the ground space, originally acting to allow workers to repair airships. In its new purpose, it allowed the investigators a birds' eye view of the reconstructed plane.

This was all the untainted evidence that Internal Security would get. The war that Marela launched had served little purpose - and indeed it was broadly assumed that its aim was to cover up something Marela or his supporters wanted hidden. It would be impossible to gather any reliable evidence from the original crash site that had not already been collected; the area after the battles was saturated with remnants of Caracasusian and Flaucian armaments. What would any wreckage now prove?

What the Caracasusian team had recovered lay upon a taped outline of the plane itself. A small part of pieces that the investigators could not place or identify lay to one side - experts combing through it to try and figure out where each piece went. It was estimated that the investigators had approximately 20% of the original plane.

The human remains of General Maezawa and three other unidentified persons lay in a morgue. No invasive autopsy had been conducted, though the remnants of the bodies had been extensively photographed and scanned.

Several deeply concerning pieces of evidence had emerged. Firstly, explosive residue was not consistent with any Caracasusian weapons systems. Nor was it consistent with any known Flaucian weapons systems.

Secondly, there were signs from a damaged black box that the plane had detected and launched countermeasures against an incoming missile. if the plane's countermeasures had functioned correctly, the missile should have not hit the plane.

Thirdly, one investigator had called up reports on a similar incident. Months ago, a plane belonging to President Jarthos of Parsoh had exploded mid-air. There were a number of worrying parallels - though given the security clearance placed on Parsoh's report, these could simply not be confirmed fully.

A picture emerged. Either the plane had been hit by the missile and the anti-missile defenses had seriously malfunctioned or the defenses had been sabotaged. Another possibility had occurred to some. Someone had uncovered a way of destroying two aircraft with perhaps the best security levels and protocol in the world in mid flight.

Method was becoming clearer. Motive, at this stage, remained speculation.

---

Yohan's quarters

Yohan played the message back over again, listening for any clue. Amon's data recorder. He would have had to have hidden it in a safe place - which was why Yohan had grabbed it. The photograph and files section contained numerous illicit materials - including several copies of The Laughing Elephant, some movies that Yohan had not seen, a popular television show from Yohannes that followed the lives of a group of gay housemates and a particularly salacious play that billed itself as "The instructive tale of the queen and the otter" for about a month before Cardulan security had shut it down and arrested the entire cast under drugs offences and immorality.

It was the last audio recording that interested Yohan.

"ach! Yo... Yohan old pal... they've got me....(Sounds of retching.) ooahhhh god that hurts! (coughing)... they've spiked my fucking.... stash. Listen.... I thought.... I... listen this is.... important. Ask... ask Red Top.... he's been (coughing)... he's been putting in some unusual.... (retching) hours down at the docks if.... if you know what I mean..... tell Red Top.... tell him to remember the lakehouse. Tell him.... tell him.... I'm sorry.

Yohan stared at the wall. Diplomatic immunity carried a lot of weight in the circles he usually trod. Red Top though... Red Top. Notorious gun runner, drug merchant and kingpin of crime in the slums of Tarbad. Owner of no less than six nightclubs that somehow knew days before any police raid to hide anything overly illegal... Red Top would likely wipe his arse with diplomatic papers.

[Tekeristan]

---

Tekeristan
Ferrum

A river of humanity flowed through the stoned streets of Ferrum, the air above them showered with paper confetti and the proud banners of Tekeristan waved like the wind. With the closing of the elections, thousands of supporters for the Greater Tekeristan Party took to the streets across the country to celebrate the nation's victory. The homeland would preserve! Adorned in patriotic face paint and high hopes, they descended upon the local cafes, bars, and restaurants with their heads held high. Tonight would be a night of celebration, and the fine establishments would be more than willing. All was in accordance to plan.

Victor had played cunning in the game of democracy. He had made his fair share of political promises and moves. Divide and conquer was a term that came to mind; the groups Victor could not secure, he'd aggressively work to split what he could from his opponents. Environmentalists split between the Green party and the GTP, flocking to Victor's promise of a green and sustainable Tekeristan. He split what he could with the elderly with promises to restore Tekeristan’s tradition and pride, while also planning to reform social security to win the youth. He fought Ponta in his support for Tekeristan’s growing domestic businesses.

The GTP managed to capture many supporting groups. The group was popular among the youth for Victor’s promises of political reform, popular among parents for his home and education ideals. He was supported by traditionalists, patriots, and nationalists for his rhetoric and patriotic pride. While he had secured a strong following, his rise wasn’t entirely made by his dedication.

Through the months of economic turmoil, Tekeristan's economic landscape had shifted and mutated, tilting the field of politics. There were no longer Flaucese superstores selling everything from welding sticks to lemon pudding, no longer many Parsohian mega-banks and fast food franchises, or Balagani automobile and agricultural conglomerates. Ion Ponta's party had relied heavily upon its well-established business allies, the peace and cooperation promoted by his accompanying party well within the interests of these large practices. Without them his campaign was hindered and the status quo shattered.

Instead, the rise of small and domestic business have begun to take the void left by the giants, much like a meadow re-blooming after a wildfire. In the darkness, Victor’s immediate stance for Tekeristan’s domestic businesses was a signal of hope - support for Tekeristan’s small businesses and communities. Ponta was associated with big business, and Victor attacked such directly with his promise to establish completely public elections.

The Cardulan investigations in Tekeristan was essential for the foundations of Victor’s rise. With the various infringements of rights, the crush of democratic representation, and military incursions and molestation - another void persisted, one persisting of national hope and patriotism. People were looking for hope.

Despite his various shortcomings, Ponta was the primary supporter for overcoming the trials and pursuing peace with Cardulan, and with the failure of the social front such became a stain. Victor, however, promised Tekeristan strength and unity - that it will never, ever bow to tyranny, that it will support democracy around the world. In the darkness, Victor’s words were like sparks falling upon coal dust; Tekeristan’s fiery heart.

Despite all the promises, Victor was a man of his word. Now having become established in office and the GTP reigning a majority in parliament, it was time to act.

---

Tekeristan

The conference room was dim, illuminated by the large display screen in the center of the room. Tekeristan was displayed in a dim brown, its borders defined in thick black lines. Dozens of small dots were charted across it, some were green, others blue, the biggest, however, were red.

Cardulan's military incursions into Tekeristan was not a matter taken lightly, even before the election, where it was swept under the rug. The 'treaty' between the 2 nations said nothing about military incursions, let alone fighter aircraft. Every move of Cardulan's fighters were being traced and monitored by Tekeristan's grid, every flight monitored and every ounce of borrowed fuel charged. At least the Cards proved themselves useful in finding the weaker areas of Tekeristan's network, where escorts were provided by the Air Force and notes were drafted.

But now there was a new management in Tekeristan, one not afraid to stand up to these injustices. During the elections Victor spoke of a stronger stance against injustice, against the injust incursions of Cardulan and their tyranny. Victor was a man of his word, which is why he stood present in the presentation room.

Victor stood beside the table, leaning into it with his hands as he watched the red dots slowly carve their way across Tekeristan. Trespassing. He shook his head. Beside him stood a clean shaven adviser, clad in Tekeristan's standard dress, standing with a stiff back and an expression similar to Victor's.

"There are risks." The Adviser sighed. "Cardulan is very, very stubborn and sighted."

"24 hours is more than enough time for them to withdraw their incursion." Victor said simply. "If they are foolish enough to ignore such a warning, well.." he paused, looking at the scattered, isolated dots. "We hope it will be best that they agree to the emergency meeting we have called at the Caracasusian embassy, so that we may present our case and delay this debacle.."

Tekeristan - International Military Notice
Tekeristan Ministry of Defense

After the 24 hours have subsided the Tekeristan Armed Forces will reinstate the national right of air sovereignty over the state of Tekeristan.
Military and civilian aircraft, regardless of origin, not belonging to Tekeristan, granted permissions, or in accordance with air control regulations will be grounded or escorted by whatever actions deemed necessary.

In light of increasingly trouble sum world tensions, a status of sovereign control of the skies, a right of nations, has been deemed necessary for the present and future security of Tekeristan. Continued violation of this principle poses a security risk against Tekeristan.
Tekeristan, Ministry of Defense

---

REPUBLIC OF TEKERISTAN

Official Statement of the Republic of Tekeristan

To: Caracasus
From: Republic of Tekeristan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs..
Subject: Peacekeeping operations within Tekeristan
Encryption: None

---

To whom it may concern,

We officially request the withdraw of all Caracasus military elements from Tekeristan within the next week. It has been concluded that their presence is no longer necessary nor required in Tekeristan, and thus an unnecessary expense. We thank your soldiers for their valuable efforts and service.

We wish your Republic well in the conflicts and times ahead.

Regards,
Tekeristan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

[Watersville]

Waters City, Watersville



The cleanup was extensive across the capitol city as people attempted to rebuild back their lives. People came home to find that the water levels that their homes had been flooded. Fortunately the water had been able to recede, but now many came home to find their homes the breeding grounds for black mold. Entire neighborhoods were devastated, and almost all of the homes were going to need to be stripped out. Many restoration and cleaning companies were already booked out for months, and there were only so many helpers from Balagan. It did not help that many were still stuck outside of the nation, waiting for the airport to be reopened.

Waters City International Airport, Waters City, Watersville



The airport was a disaster. An entire 75% of the airport now stood in a foot of water. It would be extremely hard to try and recover from this, but already the engineering teams from Caracasus, Balagan, and Watersville had begun the process of figuring out what to do. The only other airport that was capable of taking international flights in the nation was north in the city of Peace, which was now dealing with a train wreak. In the mean time, a temporary plan was being made to get the Waters City International Airport reopened.

Waters City Royal Palace, Waters City, Watersville


A Balagani aid worker stands outside of the Royal Palace

The only place within the city where the flood waters had not completely receded was the historical district. Even the Royal Palace still partially stood in 2 feet of water. The royal family was quick to look at the damage. Joseph found his office standing in water, Hannah entered the ballroom, with water still standing in it. The palace was in dismal shape, as mold had already begun the process of growing up the walls of the many rooms. Joseph now stepped outside to take a look at the royal gardens. He quickly felt his heart drop as the sight came to him.



The large patio table that his great grand father had produced for the palace was pushed up against the wall, the glass top shattered and the cast iron frame very bent out of shape, twisted in a mangled heap. The garden was a mess as well, with trees uprooted and flowers smashed. Joseph tried to breath as he went back inside to see how much more damage there was.

[Cardulan]

On Her Majesty's Secret Service

Whenever the RMS did not want a case to end in arrests – when it did involve the offspring of nobility engaged in acts of debauchery – or political crimes - they did send a special unit to the streets of Tarbad. Rían Dekkard was detective chief inspector in the "Stinger Squad" sometimes called street-sweepers or Maegnas. There official name was Intelligence Department 11. No logo, no insignia, no uniform and no special badge. Ther job was, as the head of the department once put it "to terrorise the terrorists." For the records Det 11 did listen to foreign radio programs. The budget was small and so was the unit. Officially Dekkard was assigned to the vice squad.

The rain came pouring down on his car – something not very unusual this time of the year in the city of Tarbad. Tattooed young men flanked both sides of the pedestrian subway – they silently stepped away from him. He had this aura of invincibility – of security and power, men of the RSM did radiate. The old concierge smiled friendly at him as he entered the tower block. "Good evening, Sir how..." he could not finish his sentence. He was used to a high level of rudeness and threats but Dekkard was different from the thugs he normally encountered.

"Book" Demanded Dekkard while waving the golden badge with the bee emblem into the old man's face. The concierge silently shoved the guest book over the counter and received a flash drive – carefully wrapped in a 50 Crown note in return. He transferred all data from the local system onto the drive.

"Thank you Sir, you are most generous."

Dekkard nodded.

"Is it true that Sull - He was a rapist?"

In a gesture of humanism Cardulan had abolished the death penalty for sodomites. Those sick individuals were now admitted to medical treatment – there was still no cure to heal them but electroshock, sensory deprivation and chemical castration all turned out to be mile stones on the way to a good, normal, life. With the abolition of the death penalty the number of executions had increased. While homosexuality was no longer a crime worthy of death – rape still was. The courts encouraged members of the upper classes to rat on their lovers if these were of lower social standing. But even in relationships between people of the same social standing the one who first accused the other of rape was spared the torture and degrading treatment of the mental institutions but was instead admitted to the much nicer rehabilitation for violent crime victims. Protest in the international community has all died down – after all, the most vocal advocates for the homosexual community were often the most violent supporters of a death penalty for rapists.

Dekkard just stared at the man.

"Of course, Sir. I'm sorry, how indiscreet." Said the concierge, returning the drive.

Dekker climbed the stairs to the small flat at the speed of an athlete. He went through the data of devices that were connected to the net in the last for days and compared them with the devices listed as evidence. I certain music jinn an affordable Balagani piece of electronic with easy to manipulate firm ware was missing from the list of confiscated equipment. The jinn was a small piece, about the size of a big lighter. A quick scan of the flat revealed nothing. Dekkard's old fashioned search of the rooms did not reveal anything either. The police had been thorough. He connected his computer to the home entertainment system and set the CCTV footage to fast forward.

"Identify!" he repeated this order for all of the three guests Baron Sull the younger had entertained over the past few days. He did not know any of them – that was different with the fourth one.

"Holy Jesus on the cross!" He whistled. "The Archangel himself." He was aware that Yohan Partel was the baron's last registered visitor – he was aware of his interview but he had seen his facial expression when leaving the blocks for the first time. But it was the hand in his pocked that was frantically clinging to a small object that caught his interest. The Archangel was by no means a honorific title assigned to the ambassador. It was a reference to the Archangel Lucifer, the one that would not serve.

Despite the rain, Dekkard awarded himself with a cigarette on his way back to the car. Those self driving cars were a blessing. He would never use one, but the few people who did were a lot easier to trace than those who used navigation devices and it was a walk in the park compared to those without these devices. He looked at the Archangel's route after his departure from the tower blocks.

International Aid

To: Watersville
From:Royal Ministry of Health

The tragedy that has hit your nation, the destruction and the damage are devastating. Watersville has always been a reliable friend of peace and all human beings. We will send money, medical supplies and men in the amounts you need them. This disaster, this tragedy will be the baptism of fire for your armed forces. I hope that you use them wisely to help with the clearing of Watersville and the reconstruction. King Joseph has always been an inspiration for his people. As a gesture of the appreciation for his work a team of our most skilled conservators will accompany the aid workers to restore the Royal Palace and make it a source of inspiration for the people. Watersville will rise like the phoenix from the ashes.

[South Cardulan]

From: Republic of South Cardulan
To: King Joseph

Dear Joseph

Without Watersville there would be nothing left of old Oehiton, there would be no South Cardulan and many more would have died. Our nation has not recovered from the war and it probably never will. We have gained our independence but as a wise man once said, wars can never be won - only ended.

Our nation, our citizens, the whole region owes you, your people and your family more than we can ever hope to repay. In honor of Lady Watters who became a martyr for peace thousands have donated humanitarian goods for Watersville. Food, water, shelter all for the basic needs of human beings. But also toys, tools and clothes. A lot of skilled workers and engineers, many of them learned their skills in your aid camps, have volunteered to work on the reconstruction of Watersville. I have arranged that Her Majesty's Royal Air Force will transport these man to Watersville to help you.

Your nation has done the impossible before, I am confident that you succeed once again.

Yours sincerely

Alexander Nielsen

[Caracasus]

The formation of the TUSK militia

Inigo Karakatis felt nothing as the plane took off from Orisio's primary international airport. Felt nothing as he stared out of the window – from this height he could even make out the deep scars that the Caracasusian and Flaucian missiles had made. A commune reduced to ash. Flaucian roads buried in landslides and bridges broken apart like the skeletons of some great beached whale.

Inigo had read The Protocols of the Elders of Zion and had learned some of the lessons included there. He'd read The Cult of Ganesha – A Secret History and learned of Caracasus's role in creating a unified world government. He had seen with his own eyes Caracasusian cultural genocide of his people.

Three months in a therapy centre bombarded by psychologists and “experts”. They had tried to change him. He'd planted the mining explosives on the line that traversed Orisio. He'd done it for the CAJ. He was no monster. The train was an automated train – the area he had sabotaged was free of any commune or people. He had been careful, but IntSec had caught him nonetheless. The CAJ had abandoned him though. Had left him to rot. IntSec had his reference now. They would be watching him, so he was no use.

He felt strongly for his Tekeristani roots. He had watched, first in wonderment and then in celebration as Victor had risen to power. The old man spoke with tempered anger and passion. He called for a new, brighter day for Tekeristan. A job for anyone who wanted one. A future not dominated by foreign involvement – a future built upon the principles of a strong, traditional leader who would not be afraid to speak up for Tekeristani people – a leader who would not allow his people to be carted off and tortured for simply serving in the armed forces!

There were seventy eight of them on the plane. Most were CAJ members of some kind or another. All claimed Tekeristani descent. They had heard the call and seen the beacon that Victor had lit. They were, at long last, coming home.


The TUSK militia

The TUSK militia was a concept borne in Caracasus. Fueled by a growing resentment to Caracasusian involvement in Tekeristani affairs - bolstered by the many and varied theories around the Caracasusian Hegemony and the Cult of Ganesha. It had attracted more than a few Caracasusians with Tekeristani heratige to its banner. Many had traveled to Tekeristan to join the TUSK militia - its goal was simple. It would act in ways that the legitimate GTP could not. It would do what needed to be done outside the courtrooms, outside the buildings of government and outside the laws that stifled and corrupted modern nations.

---

To: Republic of Tekeristan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
From: United Socialist States of Caracasus
Subject: Peacekeeping operations within Tekeristan

---

We will of course begin withdrawing our peacekeeping forces from Tekeristan, and we are glad that they were able to maintain the peace during the recent events.

We would ask that you extend the deadline for complete withdrawal by an additional week however, as many of our units are currently spread about the entirety of Tekeristan. Rest assured, orders for withdrawal have already been issued – it is now simply a matter of logistics.

With Regards,

Caracasus Nineday House

---

To: Republic of Tekeristan.
From: United Socialist States of Caracasus
Subject: Recent elections and results

---

We congratulate Victor and the GTP for their successful election to power in Tekeristan, and we are hopeful that the GTP's vision for Tekeristan will help to further Tekeristan's unique position on the international stage.

We hope that both our nations will continue to benefit from the shared cultural, diplomatic and economic ties that have borne so much benefit these past few decades.

With Regards,

Caracasus Council Elect

---

Cardulan - Djinn and Archangel

Cardulan


Barney, enjoying some seasonal vegetation

Yohan was at a loss. He had the small Djinn device – the Balagani made media player. He had listened to Amon's message over and over. On a whim, he'd used his reasonable knowledge of electronics and encryption to go through the other media on the device for some hidden clue. Nothing. Watching the frankly dreadful Yohannes sitcom episodes was several hours of his life he would not get back. The play was interesting though – typical of Cardulan subversives it had a dual meaning. If the actors thought that members of the RMS were in attendance, it would be played straight – every line delivered sincerely. If they thought the audience was clean then each line took on a new meaning, every actor giving it a different, mocking inflection or tone. Undermining and condemning the original message. Yohan had learned long ago not to listen to his own conscience too much. A man in his position could rarely afford to – however he felt a faint pang of pity for those fools who wrote the play. What did they possibly think they would achieve? Anti-state sentiment in Cardulan was a faint blip. Barely recognised or registered. A barely audible I am here.

Red Top. Nothing else. That was the only clue he had to go on. The man was certainly well connected. His illegitimate activities carefully laundered through nightclubs and dairies. His name, Red Top, came from his first legitimate business enterprise -a milk distribution firm. Now every bottle of milk delivered in Tarbad came from one of Red Top's dairies.

Yohan was out in the enclosure with Barney, feeding the great elephant a wheelbarrow of pumpkins when one of his aides came up to him. Behind him strode a man. Yohan turned, smiling to both of them.

Watersville

The joint rescue efforts had been well co-ordinated. Whilst the damage from the hurricane was severe, Watersville had shown considerable foresight. Many other similar natural disaster efforts that the Caracasusians had participated in had been chaotic and jumbled – with far too many resources to be used concentrated in one place – whilst some areas of the country were left to fend for themselves.


Engineers inspect for damage to Watersville's tidal flood defences

Watersville's international reputation for aid and assistance had helped them considerably. They had seen bad planning, and had seen good planning. They had learnt from the mistakes of others and built a robust response plan that saw minimal waste of resources.

Whilst the Balagani response teams worked hard in restoring power and controlling flood waters in the cities, and whilst Caracasusian engineers worked hand in hand with engineers from several countries around the world, the more isolated areas of Watersville were not left to fend for themselves.

Search and rescue drones launched from Caracasusian outposts in remote areas covered vast areas of Watersville, picking up signs of distress. Heuristic computer modelling similar to the distribution network that controlled Industry and Trade made rapid calculations of resources and manpower needed, and where it was needed the most.

Even with the meticulous planning, Caracasus's aid Kavverits barely had time to refuel. Constant runs to stranded villages and farmsteads, dropping off supplies here, taking on injured civilans there and establishing engineering teams at breakwater points.


The Caracasusian 129th Engineering division establishing flood diversions in a remote Watersville village

Already six hundred of Nineday House's engineering corps were busy repairing damage to flood control systems – draining areas and clearing overwhelmed storm drains. The casualty figures were sobering, though it could – by all measures have been a lot worse.

Economic aid programs were in development via Industry and Trade. The damage done to Watersville was almost unprecedented, and the Caracasusian people had voted fairly unanimously not to let one of their closest allies down.

---

Menthi

Ivan Petrovich was one of the few Caracasusian aid workers “allowed” into Menthi. His route was chosen meticulously – planned out long in advance. With the highways now largely disputed – huge chunks either in the hands of the FMLN or one of the myriad of other groups that had taken up arms, back roads through the jungle were the only realistic way to secure the transport of the vials of antiserum that Caracasus was producing to the Watersvillian aid clinics.

Ivan had no idea why he had been selected. He had assumed it was random, and it most likely was. A show of power or authority by Tanaka's government. Seventy names of aid workers, and their records had been put forward. Twelve had been granted clearance. Nothing seemed to differentiate them from those rejected. Not sex, ethnic background, place of birth, age... nothing.

Ivan half wished he'd not been chosen. Each trip unveiled a new level of destruction and devastation. On one trip he would go past a small farm. On the next, the farm would be burnt to the ground – by loyalist militia or FMLN – most likely depending on who the farmer had paid taxes to first.

Every six miles saw another heavily armed checkpoint. Militia with machine guns, Flaucian soldiers with rifles. The smell of fear everywhere. They stank of it. Until he served with the Caracasusian Wodensgardd camp in Oehiton he had not known that living in constant threat of your life for weeks or months at a time changed the way you smelt – but it did. Faintly acidic... it reminded him of battery acid and stale beer.

Every checkpoint was the same. He would present his identification papers. He would step out the car whilst his van was checked on the underside with mirrors on long handles. His security escort – usually two trucks with six armed guards a piece – would do the same. They would be beckoned through after half an hour of meticulous checks.

A month ago, when this had first begun, the Flaucians especially had made fun of him. Had joked about Caracasusians – the usual jokes that he was used to hearing. The jokes had stopped now. The Flaucians appeared almost robotic. He doubted anything much could make them laugh. Even knowing what Flauc had done to Orisio, their unholy alliance with Carosi and their part in the creation and spread of this plague... even knowing all of this, he still felt sorry for those Flaucian soldiers on the checkpoints.

Ivan had almost had enough. If it was not for the fact that an extra burden would be placed on the remaining eleven Caracasusians allowed passage to deliver the antiserum he would have quit by now, found a new posting. As it was he gritted his teeth, swallowed a little water from his canteen and drove on.

---

Significance Royal Palace - Conference

The Caracasusian delegate took the stand once Özcan Demirtaş had finished with his interpretation of recent events. He nodded to Demirtaş, and began speaking.

"Firstly I would like to thank Admiral Dursun Dektash of Balagan, as well as the Significance Fleet's involvement in maintaining the blockade and foiling the attempts of one man to further plunge Menthi into a state of chaos and war. The Blockade remains as important as the Blockades in Oehiton were for protecting the people of the peninsula from further bloodshed. What is needed now is peace, not more weapons and soldiers. There has been enough blood shed in Menthi for now, we cannot allow the region to become further destabilized. We call upon all civilized nations to aid us in this endevor.

Secondly, Internal Security has informed me that some wreckage from General Maezawa's flight has been recovered. This intelligence is currently under investigation, however it has some rather unusual implications that we cannot divulge further until we have explored every avenue. It is very likely that we would already have a clear narrative of the events surrounding the downing of the Flaucian General's plane by now if it had not been for the uh..." (here the delegate winced - having to use the term that the Caracasusian people had chosen for the border conflict) "The uh - Great Orisio Pissing Contest as it is known. Sadly the area is now saturated with so much ordinance and wreckage that any evidence we could gather would be useless.

Thirdly, we would like to negotiate with Parsoh regarding the provision of aid to those within the demilitarized zone. Watersville's ability to distribute aid is great, but not limitless, and unfortunately the current regime has forbidden the construction of Caracasusian aid camps within Menthi. If we could rent or lease land within Parsoh's borders to provide aid and medical treatment for those affected by the current civil war, it would be one step towards healing some of the wounds caused by adventurism in Menthi."

[New Aeyariss]

*** Fujian

Vice Admiral Ibuki Ryuta certainly hadn't belonged to easiest going men around, especially not when he has been assigned a task by his Superior, Shogun Maki Kojiro himself. This enormous, well built man has been formerly deeply involved in various Yakuza groups, before turning himself in to the Nihonese authorities. Hand picked by Shogun Kojiro, he made an amazing career despite his past, climbing to the top of the Kaigun intelligence, Tokkeitai. Although officially it was a military intelligence agency tasked with gathering information necessary for functioning of the navy, recently it has greatly expanded the scope of it's activities, aiming at development of a real octopus of contacts. Indeed, when he was now sitting in his room in the Tokkeitai HQ, slowly listening to briefing one of his commanders gave to him about recent situation in the Iberis Peninsula region, one that escalate quickly. Yet, at least at this moment, all forces were engaged with Hayesalian threat, thus Tokkeitai had limited amount of resources to spare on this matter. And, with recent promotion to Vice Admiral, Ryuta had to prove he is worthy of new title.

"The situation, we believe is escalating rapidly" spoke Counter-Admiral Nishimura Hayate. This old wolf of the seas has been a proud captain of the Nihonese battlecruiser before unlucky missile struck it's hull, leaving him crippled, although still able to walk. Now he was in service again, this time in the navy's intelligence "Flaucese navy has been cornered by the communist blockade. Marela-daitoryo is growing mad and keeping him alive will harm more and more Nihonese interests in the region. There is already brief discontent growing, and if it fires, we will have communists all over the place. The reds already taken sizable portions of Menthi, with loyalist forces in Krathos taking heavy beating."

"We fear..." added Captain Honda Ichiro, veteran of many intelligence activities "That victory of communism in Menthi will result in spreading of the revolution to the entire region. Flauc will likely be next. Merela-daitoryo proves again and again his mere craziness and lack of honor, virtue and balls. He should have dealt with this issue rather than put people in the death camps."

Ibuki carefully looked around, measuring every of his officers. In the Imperial Nihonese Army spirit of "auftragstaktik" was a very common occurrence; soldiers and officers had maximum initiative given to them by their superiors, with everyone being allowed to put forward his input. Not only had it not affected discipline, but also greatly increased independent thinking, allowing for swift and bold maneuvering on the battlefield. Rear admiral trusted in his subordinates as much as father trusts in his children; after all, most of them were his own creations. Moving his sight across them, he carefully spoke:

"Opinions?" his voice sounded terrifying. This man was known for his title of Kojiro's bloodhound - for a reason.

"We could give commies this and that to temporary calm them down, then destroy them with a major scandal and propaganda campaign." spoke Captain Ichiro, thinking of the branch he was assigned to. After all, he loved psychological operations he was in charge of - there was no better way to destroy dishonorable communists than to kill their mind "One thing is sure. We need to cripple Caracasus to the point it is unable to rise up again and at the same time get rid of Marela-daitoryo."

"We are going to need a staging ground, and we have just that" Nishimura Hayate smiled remembering his time in Cardulan "Cardulan owes us a debt of gratitude, after we armed them and their proxies, such as Mauzer and his panthers. They could be our staging ground for this operation."

"Then so shall it be." smiled Ibuki "By the virtues of heavenly father, the communists will know true fear. Hayate-san, you will go to Cardulan to speak with the queen about the issue. Honda-san, you will begin gathering me a list of all influential people in the region. I want to know whom they betray their wives with, which whores they fuck, and above all, if they are involved in some shady interests. All that we could exploit later on. You will assemble me such a list. I want also information about ethnic tension in the region, and pirates in Tortuga."

Looking on the portrait of Shogun Kojiro himself, Ibuki smiled.

"All of you, go. Bring honor to your shogun! after a number of "HAI!" the intelligence officers left their seats and ran to begin their work, each on different affair. Time was to set the entire peninsula ablaze, into the fires that would ultimately melt hammer and sickle forever.

[Significance]

Official statement from Significance

Our hearts and souls go out today to the people of Watersville. The storm has truly been unkind in its destruction. A nation as thoughtful and honourable as Watersville did not deserve such rage of nature.

Therefore, all paperwork regarding aid to Watersville has already been signed off. All that's needed from Watersville is for them to fill in and send back to us is the aid request form we sent, detailing exactly what aid they desire. With ours and hopefully other nations help, we can give back what this wonderful nation has given to others, and save them now, in their own time of need.

In other news, the Palace Conference, in our dear country, is ready to take place. We already have the Balagani delegate, and hopefully others with arrive shortly. Then we can hopefully begin the road to truly fixing the penisula. Also, requests have come through from spectators, and I am happy to announce these people will also be accommodated. Upon arrival these people will be guided first hand through the arrangements we have set for their stay, and hopefully they enjoy the conference.

To a better world,
Signed Prime Minister Matthew Barton.

Parsoh

The commander chuckled slightly, he couldn't help it.

"I think you'll find you not only asked for me to be here, but also my opinion on the penisula. However, from your statement, I think you know what you want to do. Currently, as I stated, all requests must go through the prime minister, so I suggest writing a letter to him if you need troops".

David then glanced at his watch.

"Well I never, is that the time? I didn't realise it was so late. If I'm not careful I'll miss my dinner. I've been told there's a lovely Parsoh cafe I should try while I'm here. Your free to join me if you want. If not, I'll be off. Never sleep on an empty stomach I say"

And with that the commander grabbed his coat and began to leave, wondering if the Balagani would join him or not.

[Balagan]

Significance Royal Palace

"Mr. Bashir, I beg you! Please spare us your antics and leave them for the readers of your paper!" The delegate from Parsoh had worked for a prolonged period on this line. He was disapointed that no one laughted at his sophisticated joke. He sight and turned to Demirtaş. "Will you please explain to him what we can not let the infected..."

"...die on our doorstep!" Intervened Demirtaş. "Yes, I can do that." He cleared his throat.

"First of all let me thank you for words of support. I think that Commander Dektash will be cleared by president Koç to receive the Order of the Elephant. Balagan agrees with you. We need less weapons not more. The situation is out of control and Malsti is a difficult case. We appreciate the lift of the no-fly zone in the east and the obvious signals of their readiness to negotiate but the steady arrival of new men and weapons from the People's Republic is concearning."

Demirtaş rubs his chin and nods. "Yes. Yes, that's interesting. I think that General Maezawa's flight should not be put on the agenda here. I know that it is an important episode in the peninsular crisis but I would like to leave it out if this meeting. We are already under considerable pressure. The events in Significance are worring. I had not thought that a nation such as this one would have internal problems of this magnitude."

He waits for the other delegates to think about this before he continues.

"The case of the infected. We need to deal very carefully with that." He makes a pause and looks at the delegate from Parsoh. "The city state has only limited space. There are no places were we could send the refugees. Your arguments are all valide and something needs to be done. I have an idea that is cost efficient and workable. I suggest we use two of Parsoh's decommissioned off shore drilling platforms to house the refugees. It might not be the most compfortable solution but they are better off than many citizens of Watersville at the moment. If you agree to that you can begin flying refugees out today. If Malsti does not shoot you down of course."

Parsoh

Denktash grabbed his hat put it under his arm. "I have more than enough men here. If I would need more, I would get more. I wish we could send a few, or better all, of them back. Parsoh is tempting. Moral is on a high. When we walk the streets you will realize that I do not need any guards. I'm the head of the Balagani forces but the people here? Well, you will see."

It was easy for the two of them to reach the Cafe through public transport. Several people of various backgrounds recognized Denktash and greeted or saluted him.

[Tekeristan]

---

REPUBLIC OF TEKERISTAN

Official Statement of the Republic of Tekeristan

To: Caracasus
From: Republic of Tekeristan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs..
Subject: Peacekeeping operations within Tekeristan, Extradition
Encryption: Medium

---

To whom it may concern,

Concerns regarding the length of withdraw have been acknowledged and withdrawal time with be extended by a period of 2 days, with an additional 4 days being provided at port areas. Several navy and civilian ports are available for operation.
Domestic military and logistical elements will assist in withdraw efforts. Railway routes are available for rapid transportation.

We ask for the extradition of Hentry Rochefort and his various associates to Tekeristan in order to face new domestic trial for his actions in International waters. Hentry is a national from Tekeristan and thus shall be put to trial in Tekeristan, as his actions were done on a ship under the Tekeristan banner, thus subject to Tekeristan law.

We thank your agencies for their cooperation and assistance in making Tekeristan a safer place.

Regards,
Tekeristan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

---

Tekeristan

Boros Géza was a long-time accountant for the Ministry of Commerce, potentially one of the most influential individuals in his department. A grizzled veteran with a knack for numbers and a sense for cents, some could say he was the spear head through Tekeristan's recent economic situation. Now he was the lead financial adviser for the C.W.A and their vast projects, work that he found rather humbling. But notably, the Hypothetical Zone and its strangeness was one of his hobbies.

His work office was situated high above downtown Ferrum, in one of the few towering towers, where from the glittering glass one could look over the golden city of Europe and begin to take in the sense of scale. His office was relatively small in space, the once wide office outfitted with rows of cabinets and thick shelves.

It was a small surprise that one of Boros's build chose such an arrangement. He was a thick man, with a balding head with thin remains of grey hair. A grey stubble formed itself around his maw, seemingly matching his usual grey suit. He sat at his cluttered desk, slowly running his finger down a dense page of numbers as if it was a picture book.

"So what of the Hypothetical Zone?" the younger man asked, leaning against one of the shelves with his arms crossed. He wore a darker suit, his black hair retaining a vibrant youth that always seemed to carry some sort of motive.

"What about it?" Boros muttered in return, flipping another few pages in the binder in his attempt to find something..

The younger man seemingly frowned for a moment. "You know why I am here, Boros. Your study of the H-zone isn't exactly a secret. I assume you received the email from earlier, yes?"

Boros looked up from his binder, leaning back into his seat with a strange smile - as if caught guilty, but a small tang of hesitation with memory of the email. The GTP were looking for budget cuts, money to re-direct towards more domestic programs, and they were eyeing the subsidies of the Hypothetical Zone like hungry, patriotic dogs.

"Yes, yes.." Boros nodded, leaning back into his seat as he looked out the window at the black sky and the soft glow of the city. Bringing his eyes forward he gave a soft sigh as he looked at the small charts on the binder. The younger man stood up with apparent interest. Boros took a breath.

"In general, trade with the Hypothetical Zone has been somewhat of a challenge.. Challenges cost time, time is money." he stated, as if pushing himself forward towards the main point. "So turning a profit, let alone cutting even, is somewhat of a challenge."

"Not very appealing." The younger man commented, earning a nod from Boros.

"Yes.. So that is why there are the subsidies and grants, to make up for the time and complication of the Hypothetical Zone.. Makes it.. More worth while for the private sector to pursue." Boros looked down at the charts, admiring them for a few moments.

"So, cut.." The young man began, but Boros quickly caught up.

"Yes, cutting the subsidies and grants will make it less.. Possible. Too costly to realistically pursue for most companies at the current rate. But, we end up at an interesting junction.." he slowly turned the binder and pushed it towards the end of his desk. "I'm certain you know basic supply and demand, correct?"

The young man stepped forward and looked down at the graphs, blinking at them as if reading a vaguely understandable alien language. "Yes.." he muttered.

"By cutting the grants and subsidies the demand will go down, thus logically decreasing the price - either with increased consumer demand, or reform in the mess that is the Hypothetical Zone.. But Caracasus isn't a typical economy, mind you. It isn't very predictable, not for the traditional models."

"So what do you have to say about it?" The younger man inquired, gently turning the binder back around before pushing it back.

"What do I?" Boros took a moment to pause, contemplating the various ideas. "The orders are already in.. But in my professional opinion, I cannot entirely predict the way this will end. The ball is in Caracasus's court regarding this Hypothetical Zone, whether they intended it to always be like that or not."

[Tekeristan]

---

Carosi
Elena Barnutiu

The grand gates of Carosi passed quickly, as if swallowing past her as the humming convoy glided through into the gleaming temple. The image of it struggled in her head, but such were quickly dispersed as the palanquin slowed to a stop. She blinked, regaining her attention of her surroundings. They had entered a clearing beyond the palace walls, where the shined stone was littered only with the vibrant glow of flowers.

Around her, flanking both sides, stood 2 crowded masses that all seemingly struggled to gain a better view of her - not daring to pass some invisible line. She felt the ground approached as she was sent down, and the humming murmurs of her carriers disappearing into the wind. For a moment she felt as if she was left on some sort of tiny island - lost at sea.

The door of the palanquin seemingly drifted open and Elena took a silent breath before stepping forth. For the moment, she forgot about her things, instead taking care not to squish too many peddles as she straightened herself to look around. The crowd seemed to shiver, watching with a barely contained anticipation. With wide eyes, many seemed excited, tinted with the hue of curiosity.

In front of her stood 2 people, standing side by side. One was a youthful looking oriental woman who stood out from the crowd, she stood with what one could call confidence, tucked into a golden uniform. The man beside her stood tall, wearing a set of fine white clothing that would be indistinguishable from snow. She wasn't able to make much of a guess on his height, as when she turned himself to face the 2 the man bowed at the hips - nearly bringing the top of his head to the ground!

The man swooped back up like a cat, taking a single step forward. His hand strode along his side, pulling a long, gleaming knife from his side. With a practiced flip, he presented its fine handle to her.

“I am the one who won the honour of addressing the mother of Mardock. I speak for all of us when I hope that our pitiful empire is to your liking, your divinity.” the man spoke clearly, voice dancing with a certain glee.

Six heavily build men, wearing the orate golden masks of the Witchfinders, silently strode from the edges of the crowd to form a perfect circle around her. They all watched her, faces hidden behind the gleam of polished gold. Elena noticed that her carriers had seemingly disappeared, but her thoughts were dashed as the man before her slid the dagger once more into its sheathe and spoke with a booming voice to the crowd around him.

“Our Witchfinders will protect this earthly incarnation of our goddess. They will stay with her night and day, they will be her shield in this fleeting material realm.” the man declared loudly, with a hidden sense of pride.

“If any so much as dares to raise a voice to her, they will cut out his tongue. If any looks her in the eye, they will remove those offending eyes. If any raises a hand to her, they will be struck dead as will their children!”

Elena blinked. A jolt of shock seemingly rushed through her, paralyzing her. She tried to breath for words, only managing a small hesitant "no" that became only a whisper. "Don't want to hurt anyone.." she weakly muttered to herself. Yet seemingly, at that moment, the ring of finders shifted forward. The woman, adorned in her golden outfit, waved Elena forward. She followed after, seemingly compelled.

The woman held back till she was a few feet behind Elena, speaking to her as they walked across the stone clearings - filled with vibrant gardens and trickling fountains most intricate. The woman spoke to Elena, introducing herself.

"Forgive me, divine, for my name is Empress Consort Jinjing, the "Speaker of Law" for our state." she praised, “I know these dwellings are poor fare compared to what you must be used to. I beg that you have mercy on us oh divine presence! If there had been more time, more fitting accommodations could have been made available."

Elena simply gave a smile, nodding her head with a softness. They had arrived at a second gate, smaller than the first. The Witchhunters paused outside, allowing the Empress and Elena to step inside. The gate came shut behind them, secure.

Elena's eyes danced over the fine temple, her breath silently escaping as she paused in her steps. The air smelled of flowers and a distant dash of salt. Every stone glittered under the light, polished to perfection. Fine golden artifacts adorned the temple and its surroundings, the land blessed with vivid gardens of life.

"If these displease you in any way, if you want for anything – say the word and I will have those responsible for this travesty shot.” The Empress finished, an anticipation following her words.

"No.." Elena simply muttered, mainly to herself. "This.. This is beautiful, thank you.." she paused for a moment, turning to face the consort. "Would you be as kind as to show me around?" she muttered shyly, giving a soft smile.

[Caracasus]

The Fourth Fleet

One of the three AWAC planes – outfitted Howdah aircraft equipped with a multitude of sensors and equipment that provided the above sea level coverage of the blockade route took off from the runway. This close to Caracasus, the blockade had no trouble in ensuring that air support would reach them quickly if it were needed.

The fourth fleet included 6 Harpe class frigates. These vessels were modular in nature, and given the nature of the blockade many carried anti-submarine Kavverit.

12 T.U.S.K destroyers formed the backbone of the blockade. These vessels formed the backbone of the blockade. Their missiles and EWS would ensure that any ship that made it past the air screen would have trouble getting further.

8 modular T.U.S.K II class destroyers, outfitted for anti-submarine warfare lurked nearby – guarding deepwater areas and other passages where submarines might make a breakthrough in the line.

10 Falcata stealth corvettes – outfitted with missile banks skittered around the larger vessels. This close to harbour, the main weakness of such vessels – being unable to maintain a lengthy sea voyage, would not be such an issue. Armed with ship to ship missiles they would pick out and destroy larger ships before detection.

6 Falx hunter submarines patrolled underwater, whilst 10 Kopis class patrol ships waited, ready to escort aid freighters through the blockade to deliver their cargo. To assist with the duties of the blockade, 20 minesweeper vessels patrolled. 20 more patrol boats skimmed the surface of the ocean. Of the Fourth fleet, the only vessels not present were the marine landing craft.

---

Significance

The Caracasusian delegation discussed the proposals among themselves for a while.

“Excellent. The medal ceremony can be hosted soon. Given the current tensions it may be better to host the ceremony in Quoris city or in Parsoh – to better allow the Admiral ease of access to the ships should the need arise.”

“We are in negotiation with Malsti at present. They have not landed any more soldiers in Karthos this past week.” Quite the opposite in fact – thought the delegate. Malsti had returned two units of soldiers who were swiftly rushed to.... “Malsti fully supports the Karthos Soviet – as is their right of course. We are hopeful that all parties here can lay aside their differences for at least a little while. I am afraid that if what scant intelligence we have gathered from Menthi and from the refugees fleeing the place is even halfway true, the plague has spread far further and more virulently than we had anticipated.”

The delegate spoke to the Parsohian representative. “Have you received any word from Tanaka regarding delivery of Athioc flowers?”

“Not... yet no. Rest assured once we do the cure will be made available at a very reasonable...”

Özcan held up a hand. The delegate sighed.

“The cure will be made available thanks to generous subsidies from Balagan”

Özcan Demirtaş leaned forward in his chair. “And may I ask, how are the negotiations with the FMLN progressing?” An innocent enough question but one laden with traps. Demiratas was a man who specialised in asking the kind of question that gave the receiver just enough rope to hang themselves with.

“We have some contact with them. It is... sporadic. With the fighting and the plague it is... difficult to maintain any contact with any group in Menthi.” The delegate sighed. “We need someone to broker some sort of deal with Flauc. I imagine they will not respond well to Caracasusian attempts but we must contact them. We are dealing with a humanitarian disaster here, and they have soldiers on the ground who could assist with humanitarian efforts. We need to restart the production of the serum and we must ensure that it is distributed across Menthi. Some joint effort on the part of all nations involved will be called for here. We must ensure the stability of the blockade, we must make concrete provisions for the passing of aid freighters through the blockade and we must begin to plan for a full-scale humanitarian relief effort.”

He turned to face the delegates, looking at each one in turn. “Let us face it, if the central government of Menthi has not collapsed yet, it is a matter of days before this happens. Tanaka's regime could not provide the level of aid needed even if it wanted to.”

“As for the offshore platforms... Caracasus can lend what support we can to make these places more comfortable. If it would be preferred, sanctuaries for Menthian refugees have been set up in Quoris. We could begin shipping refugees to Quoris if they requested it.”

[Significance]

The palace

Harry rubbed his forehead. He'd been kind enough to let the meeting start early, and as more delegates entered the more promising "peace in our time" seemed to be. Of course that might not be so easy, and he quickly glanced at his super soldier entourage hidden in the corner, just in case. More plain to see were the ceremonial guard outside the glass doors, but they somehow didn't fill Harry with much confidence.

There was another small matter of course....

"While I feel we are making good progress, let's not get ahead of ourselves. The divide is indeed strong between both sides, and while we can discuss solutions, a big factor, Flauc, isn't here yet. Neither is Carosi for that matter, who seem very close to Flauc. Without other key countries, we can not hope to turn words into action. My prime minister, for example, hopes to create a United States of Menthi, similar to the USA. I could go into detail but I hope my analogy will suffice. There is also the matter of who should peacekeep in Menthi, but if Flauc never arrived and ignore this conference, it's back to square one".

Harry paused to let this sink in, then sighed slightly and turned to the Parsoh and Balagan delegates.

"You two are the closest to Flauc who are also here now. Perhaps you could explain Flauc's reasoning and motivations a little. If we understood Flauc better, it would easier to make a deal they like. We can't realistically do anything without their consent".

He looked at the two delegates, hoping he'd made a good move.

[Balagan]

The Palace

"Well, I can not really speak for Flauc. I had a lot of admiration for them but things changed since Marela took power." Demirtaş was looking very concerned. "I think the case is clear if Flauc does not show up. If they don't make a case against the security zone the issue is settled. I think it is clear enough that what we did was completely covered by the treaty and that we had no other choice than to step in where Flauc and Menthi had failed the other states. If Flauc violates the treaty even further we don't need their consent to remove them from Menthi. We will get our mandate from the treaty." He looks at the other delegates and rubs his chin. "I don't seek a confrontation and I can guarantee you that Balagan is not going to occupy Menthi, with mandate or without. Flauc has signed the treaty and even Marela will honor it. He has no other choice."

He sights before he continues. "If you ask me for my opinion on the recent actions of Flauc, here is what I think. Marela is a weak leader with not much backing. I won't speculate why he ravaged the crime scene where his predecessor was murdered. You must ask him why he did not want to investigate the crime from which he benefited the most. His fire works show along the Hepp Pass was intended to draw support. Marela tried to shift the focus away from domestic problems. Strikes, ethnic tensions, open rebellions and a lot of people asking the wrong questions about the death of Maezawa. This was becoming too much for him to deal with. After Flauc's frequent threats to use nuclear weapons against Caracasus he had to outperform the other leaders, he had to be the man who would let actions follow the words. He did. He failed."

Demirtaş rose from his seat. "We all know what happened so I don't have to retell the story in full. It is a well established fact that Flauc triggered the events that followed on purpose. Marela was defeated because his troops could not deliver. He knew in advance that his adventure would lead to severe fighting in Menthi so he did act aggressively against this nation and all other members of the treaty."

He turned towards the delegate from Caracasus. "Dektash will be informed, I think he would love to come to Quoris City, he only been to Caracasus three or four times in his career. If you are looking for Flauc's reasons to send troops to Menthi in the first place you will find them in Caracasus. There are still nations that refuse to accept the simple existence of Menthi, the same nations who pushed the people of Menthi right into the civil war by dismembering the nation and declaring the parts that were looking to join Caracasus independent. What ever can be said about Flauc today, Maezawa was not a man who would- well. We all know of the crimes the Karthos Soviet committed, how land and factories were taken away from their owners."

He turned towards the delegate from Significance. "If that is what the people of Menthi want, than they shall have that. I think that idea can work but it must be endorsed by the population. The days of colonialism are over. Despite Tekeristan's attempts to stop us from curing the infected Balagan is already producing the cure in cooperation with Flauc and Parsoh. The most pressing issues are the distribution of the cure, the end of hostilities and negotiations between all relevant fractions of the conflict. The gun must be silent, than we can try to plan the future of the nation destroyed by good intentions."

[Parsoh]

REVEALED! Senate gives luxury homes to "migrants" using YOUR money!

*Senate to build luxury offshore accommodation for thousands of Zaria migrants!
*Billions of Silver Bits of taxpayer money funds contractors
*Senate “unavailable for comment”


Artist's impression of the planned refugee shelters

Exclusive sources to this paper can confirm that the Senate has decided to throw away its tried and tested immigration policies of closed door migration in favour of Caracasusian style welfare. Whilst the number of migrants allowed in by the Senate has not yet been released, there are fears that it could possibly reach half a million at the least. Many of these could be wanted criminals, terrorists or thieves.

The plans, to be put in motion soon, will not only open Parsoh's doors to the feckless scroungers, criminal scum and notorious terrorists of Menthi posing as “refugees” but will even offer them taxpayer funded luxury accommodation! This paper has campaigned long and hard for a firm but fair approach to immigration, especially from the failed state of Menthi and it is sad that our worthwhile contributions have fallen on deaf ears.

A local community spokesperson spoke to our paper after we asked him how he felt about paying for the peninsula's scroungers and drifters to live free of charge in Parsoh:

“Well I'm worried obviously. It's very concerning. Only last week someone broke into the shop down the road and what's being done about that? Nothing! Maybe if our government spent a little more money on keeping the streets safe for upstanding Parsohian citizens and a little less on trying to solve the problems of the peninsula, we'd all sleep a bit safer at night. I mean sure, I don't want to turn away people who need help but how can you tell? Anyone can pretend to be a refugee. I don't think we should let them in at all.”

While the exact cost of the project has not been revealed, it could reach billions of Silver bits. The accommodation is understood to be planned as an offshore platform which could include such luxuries as swimming pools, heated jacuzzi and personal helicopter pads for resident migrants. Each purpose built apartment could well be fitted with the kind of luxurious electronic goods that many Parsohians can only dream of owning.

[Cardulan]

The Palace, Significance

Baron Anarion of Londer was well aware that Cardulan never had signed the Treaty of Saruwa. He personally went to Significance to deal with the recent crisis. Not because of love for the people of Menthi but because of the collapse of Significance. The failed state was no longer in control of its armed forces. Entire fleets could desert and move around the globe with no one noticing. Baron Anarion was more concerned about this failed state than any other. He had listened to the arguments of the other delegates and he could not find much on what they disagreed. He has no specific orders for this meeting. Everything was on the table – he had free hands.

"I think that we have made great progress here. Thanks to the blockade a greater disaster could be prevented. By order of the Queen, Commander Dursun Dektash is awarded the Distinguished Naval Cross for his roll in preventing further aggression against the nations of the peninsular." He salutes Dektash. "You deserve that honour, Sir. I think that the blockade must stay. Moving our own fleet back to these waters seems unnecessary at the moment as more than enough ships are in the waters already. I will not give my opinion on the problems regarding the treaty and Flauc. I would like to hear the statement of our colleagues from Flauc first. We have to focus on the humanitarian work now. I can understand that Menthi can not trade with nations that do not recognise it. I think this problem has been solved by Balagan. Deliveries to Parsoh can begin immediately. I suggest we ignore Tekeristan's wishes for more death and suffering and you produce the cure despite their threats. I think Balagan's handling of the economic situation in the security zone deserve some more attention. Do the other delegates think that this model could be used on the rest of Menthi?"

He takes a break to look at the map of the peninsular.

"Cardulan has no intention to split up Menthi and form a federal state. We are not opposed to this idea either. We need to hear the opinion of Flauc and Menthi on this plan. The huge compensations Tekeristan pais to cardulan allow us be a lot more generous. We will finance schools and homes for displaced children in the security zone if Balagan is willing to manage these. That way Tekeristan will indirectly heal some of the damage it has brought on the people of Menthi by preventing them from making a cure."


Nadior Naval Academy

T was the first time in Cardulan for Counter-Admiral Nishimura Hayate. He was welcomed with full military honours. The Nadior Naval Academy was located in an old ivy-covered building. After the usual protocol and the awarding of the Order of the Weather Hills to Hayate he was met by Lord Boromir – the minister of colonial affairs, Lord Argond – the minister of war and Archbishop Gorrevod of Morven.

Agrond spoke first. "Welcome to Counter-Admiral. Let me introduce my nephew Lord Boromir."

The young Lord bowed slightly.

"I don't think that the good Archbishop needs any introduction." The bishop just smiled – his teeth as shiny as his impressive rack of medals.

"The Iberis Peninsular has come to your interest? Let me try to give you a summary of our own intelligence. Right now, Cardulan has two special forces units operating in Menthi. One is investigating war crimes probably connected to Parsoh or Tekeristan the other was on a sabotage mission against the occupation forces. They now monitor the development in Menthi. Let me tell you this straight – Menthi is in the worst state ever. We have some very interesting files on their new president – Augusto Tanaka – he served in our Volunteer Brigade."

Argond hands Hayate a manila folder with the copies of Tanaka's file.

"Let me be blunt about this. Flauc has caused this situation. Their defeat was a tragedy - every capable military commander would have listened to the words of Sun Tzu. Not Marela - he charged a fortress head on, leaving thousands of his men in a trap to die."

He shook his head.

"Well, what's done is done. The result of his actions is that Flauc's few surviving soldiers are now trapped in Menthi without food or ammo. I don't even start to talk about fuel or medical supplies. Thankfully Balagan seems to have them under control now. The only problem with Flauc being removed from Menthi is that the power vaccum will likely be filled by communist forces. The nation has been completely stripped of any resources. They have no chance of surviving on their own. I doubt that Balagan will be dragged into that. They are not going to occupy a nation like Menthi."

When the minister of war had finished his speech it was Morven's turn to give his toughs.

"Cardulan has a lot of influence in this region. We have armed and trained the self-defence militias of the Christians. They now form an important network of informants for our scouts in Menthi. The Society of Jesus is working hard to save the people of Menthi and they even have a few seats in parliament. Again – Cardulan has a lot of influence here."

Boromir was the last to speak.

"There is a conference going on in Significance - you have to send a delegate there if you want to increase your influence. Balagan and Flauc are working on a solution to their problems and all other nations involved participate as well. I think that the severity of the problems will force them to find a way to solve the Menthi problems. Your ideas and your money to rebuild Menthi are much needed there."

Tarbad

Describe, in single words, only the good things that come to mind about your mother.

“Rían Dekkard. I'm with the RMS. Is Mr Patel available?”

The Caracasusians... Dekkard's job had become more interesting and more perilous in equal measure. Never one for politics, he was nonetheless broadly aware that Caracasus was ruled by a particularly benevolent monarch who had taken a remarkably lax hand when it came to censorship and policing. From the rumours of his colleges, all manner of sinful things were regularly enjoyed by its subjects. Their police force was routinely hampered in the pursuit of their investigations by legislature seemingly designed to actively promote criminal behaviour. A strange people – nonetheless useful in their own way. Their troops had secured Oehiton's borders at a time when it looked as if the war would continue forever, their planes and ships protected the skies and oceans side by side with the Northern Alliance. Their troops had fought bravely at Aflsund.... grain, fruit and meat flowed from Cardulan to Caracasus and in return came electronics, medical equipment and even satellite components. They were an important international player in Cardulan's spheres of influence and unwritten as well as written laws came into effect here. Being part of an elite unit with no official record had its uses... it also had its disadvantages. His position was usually unassailable but... if he managed to anger the wrong person – someone from whom not even his powerful and influential paymasters could protect him from? He was that much easier to get rid of.

The man who answered the door wore the sober colours of most Caracasusian diplomats. A lapel pin with a golden elephant embossed lay slightly crooked on the man's chest.

“Mr Patel”

“Oh, no I am afraid he is out at the moment. May I ask what this is concerning?”

“Just a routine follow-up. Mr Patel made a statement to RMS regarding an incident – we'd just like to clarify a few details for our records.”

The man nodded. “I am sure he will be happy to oblige. Shall I make an appointment?” The man was polite and open. Dekkard had no doubt that an appointment would be made. When he got to see the ambassador would be another matter. He also did not relish the idea of such a meeting being recorded on paper anywhere - even within the Caracasusian embassy.

Dekkard sighed. “Honestly, this will honestly take a few minutes. Listen, this goes no further but between the two of us, it's a case of the duty inspector's appalling handwriting - no-one can read half of what he's put down, but regulations are regulations... if I can just get five minutes of Mr Patel's time I can get this corrected today and no-one will be any the wiser. Otherwise I'm looking at requisition forms... more paperwork... the duty inspector could lose his job over it. Could you ask Patel to do me a favour here?”

The man looked sideways. “Listen, I know Yohan. He wouldn't want to see someone lose their job over something like this. He takes lunch at the Crocodile Cafe.”

Aid for Watersville

To: Watersville
From: Royal Ministry of Health
Encryption Low

The situation in Watersville is still far from being under control. The Kingdom of Cardulan has decided to increase our efforts to help the people of Watersville. Besides money, helpers and supplies we will send construction workers and construction materials to build emergency shelters as well as new, flood and quake resist houses. The Royal Palace has already been reconstructed so that the Royal Family can move back in.

We ask the Kingdom of Watersville to send a delegate to the Significance meeting. While the King might not be available for this duty some one else has to be. This is an important meeting and Ruby McClaw might just be the right person to be send to Significance.

Embassy of Caracasus, Ferrum

Private Nolondil had a hard time in Tekeristan. Anti-Semitism had a long and bloody tradition in Tekeristan. He encountered it every day – everywhere he moved. Normally he worked as liaison between Jewish shop owners and the peace keeping forces to defend their shops against further pogroms. Many of his new found friends considered moving to HaMakom after the GTP's rise to power.

Today he was on a special mission. He would meet high ranking delegates for an emergency meeting. This was going to be a very interesting experience for him. His orders were clear – he was instructed to deescalate the situation and find a way out of the emergency that was acceptable for everybody.

When the protocol had been dealt with and it was time to give the speeches he pulled out the armistice contract and read it aloud. Point by point he explained the meaning of the words to the Tekeries in their own language. He even told them the secrets of international law and that contracts could not be altered or cancelled if one side did not like them anymore without a proper clause in them.

"That's it than." He finished his explanations. "Crisis solved I dare say. That's all folks." He told both the Tekeris and the delegates from Caracasus. "We never have stopped the investigations and they won't be slowed down. If you have any questions – please don't hesitate to ask them now."

He was quite happy with the help he could provide to the host nation. These were difficult times but he even allowed the Tekeris to keep copies of the contract so they could look it up whenever they had questions. Just a few more months he thought happily and he would be going home for good.

[Tekeristan]

---

Tekeristan

Harvests in Tekeristan..

The whimsical tune of Tekeristan's most popular talk show, Tek Talk, came to a quick close as the camera panned back to the stage from the darkened audience. Sylas Campos, son of English migrants and the program's favorite host, sat behind his circular wooden desk with a familiar grin shined into his face. The audience gave their short lived applause and cheer as the camera focused center onto Sylas, an empty arm chair beside his desk.

"Good afternoon Tekeristan! I am your host, Sylas, and for today's program we have a special guest!" he grinned towards both the audience and camera. A short cheer followed his words and he waited for such to subside before speaking again. "There are many issues and concerns surrounding our nation as of late. With the closing of what could be considered the most energetic elections in our history, many of us are uncertain of the times ahead." he gently lifted the papers on his desk, reading them for a moment before setting them down with a smile.

"Many people are joining us today because of the appearance of our special guest this evening. He is, considered by some, this years most controversial man; bringing both hope and uncertainty. Yet at the same time, he registers as one of the most well-liked individuals in our nation! Self-proclaimed intellectual and Tekeristan's newest Prime Minister, Victor Dinescu!" Sylas cheered as he turned towards the side of the stage, waving to a figure off screen.

An excited cheer erupted through the crowd as Sylas revealed the guest, easily surpassing the cheer from the beginning of the show. The cheers sustained as Victor stepped onto the stage from behind the curtains, waving to the crowd as he approached the guest's chair. He wore the clothing of a simple man - a white button shirt tucked underneath a dark plaid jacket, slightly warn and scuffed jeans, and a black lamb hat - which Victor took off his head as he reached the table.

The crowd's cheer slowly dwindled into a murmur as Sylas stood to shake hands with Victor, breaking the firm shake as the both went to sit. The two exchanged a few private words, smiling to each other as Sylas turned to partially face both the crowd and Victor. Leaving the papers behind, he nodded his head to Victor.

"Now, Victor." Sylas respectfully addressed. "You approached us here on Tek Talk and asked if you could join us for a show, correct?"

"Correct." Victor replied, nodding his head as he leaned back into the arm chair. "I asked to be here today so I can speak to the people of Tekeristan, to meet them on a familiar level."

Sylas gave a nod. "Well Victor, it is an honor to have you here today. Now, would you care to remind me what you wished to speak about today?"

Victor leaned forward as he tilted his nose up in thought, giving a confirming nod to himself as he turned to address Sylas. "I'm glad to be here today as well, it was very kind of your." Sylas shook his head, waving such off. "No worries Victor, it is our honor, but please - continue."

Victor nodded. "I wanted to come here today to talk about nutrition and agriculture in our country. Food is something we all love." he smiled knowingly.

Sylas nodded his head. "Of course, your campaign has promised and promoted change in many areas - one of which being agriculture." he turned his seat, grabbing his papers for a few moment to flick through them. He turned and set them between the 2. "I remember that during the elections you went on a tour through rural Tekeristan. It was you and your truck! Did this influence you?"

"Absolutely." Victor nodded, sitting up in his seat. "My visit through the countryside is something I do not regret. I was greeted with such kindness and respect that it changed my very soul. I talked to many people, I got to know their problems and their concerns on a personal level - having grown up in a small village on a small farm myself." he took a breath. "Yet during elections, it is these rural communities and people that are forgotten, as the majority of people live in cities. I wanted to give these communities a voice, to hear the problems facing them today, and to bring attention to them. I want to make Tekerisan a better place for everybody, and they are a part of it."

Sylas gave an understanding nod as he turned himself more to Victor than the crowd. "So on your trips through the country side and the nation, what are some of the problems you have heard - especially regarding the rural community?"

"During my trips through the countryside, as well as my trips after, I keep with me a notebook. Everywhere I go." Victor nodded, turning inward in re collective thought. "And in this notebook I kept a list of the people I have met and their problems. After a while, you begin to notice a pattern in the issues." he took a breath.

"In the countryside, I was told there were many problems.. Farm communities are dying, the young moving to the cities. There isn't enough infrastructure in some places for goods to be moved in scale. Soil is unknown in places, fertilizer expensive, and machinery lacking at times. These were some of the more common problems I was told."

Sylas nodded his head in response, hanging onto Victor's words. "What do you hope to do to solve these solutions?"

"My.. End goal is to raise the standard of living for our nation's people, to.. Unlock the potential our people are deserving of, and capable of. Along with speaking with these people, I've met with experts and representatives to help determine solutions, to find what would be the most effective means to do such.. What we currently have devised is a plan of development.." he paused. "To condense these scattered farm homes into villages, and tiny scattered villages into towns.. So that these settlements will preserve, so that infrastructure can be focused, and economies improve."

"What do you mean by focused infrastructure?" Sylas responded, completely turned towards Victor now. "And how does such effect these local economies?"

Victor smiled for a moment. "By focusing into these settlements we can focus more into less.." he began. "Meaning we can focus on quality rather than quantity.. A focus on density rather than sprawl. By getting these farmers and rural communities better access to the market through these community hubs, we give them access to the economy. This was a problem told to me by some of the more desolate villages, that sometimes they can't even get to market. By gathering these communities together and focusing ourselves accordingly, we allow them to interact not only on a more local level - but a national level, something I wish to touch on later."

Sylas scribbled a few notes before looking back up to Victor. "You mentioned fertilizer and machinery as problems earlier.. What do you mean by this?"

"I wish to support farmers by helping to develop our agriculture.. Right now we are having a fertilizer crisis in parts of our nation. It is either inaccessible or too expensive. Yet we have a solution, one that not only makes better fertilizer, but is many times more sustainable and available. But it is something we don't utilize, in fact its name reflects upon our attitude towards it. Waste, a rather unfair name I'd say - considering the things we can do with it. Not only can it solve our fertilizer issues cleanly, safely, efficiently, and more sustainably, we would be utilizing a resource that goes unused, something that is left in dumps. You can even burn the stuff to generate electricity."

Sylas nodded his head, giving a small frown for a moment. "And machines? Although I have heard that your promises of waste reform has attracted a number of environmentalists."

"By condensing the communities, we're hoping that farmers more able to share the equipment they have - and with better access to the market, we hope that they can develop themselves even further."

"Well Victor, our time is starting to run short for this evening. I believe there was something else you wished to talk about.." he paused for a moment. "Nutrition, correct?"

"Yes!" praised Victor. "Nutrition is important, and that is no understatement. I have spoken with health experts, farmers, even grocery owners. We all want better food! We hope to bring fresher food to the people, not only to improve health, but to improve the quality of our lives. We wish to support food diversity and quality by working with the small farmers and businesses. We intend to bring this change to schools as well, to teach students how to cook and proper dieting - even gardening through school gardens. Our nation's children is our nation's future."

"That is surely a noble intention, Victor. However I'm afraid our time is running short for our segment, do you have any finishing statements?" Sylas asked, standing from his seat to offer Victor his hand.

Victor replied as he stood up to return the handshake. "Yes! Two things, actually. I plan to have weekly televised meetings with the nation on the Federal channel, beginning in the next few days.. And I have recently published a new book called 'My Tekeristan'!" He firmly shook Sylas's hand, who then turned to the audience.

"Thank you for joining us tonight on Tek Talk, make sure to check out Victor's new book - My Tekeristan - and check in for Friday's new episode!"

---

Tekeristan, Caracasusian embassy
Cami Pop

An emergency meeting was a fitting name for the situation. Cami felt jittery in her seat, yet the room was warm, Caracasusian warm. A Caracasusian observer sat at the corner of the table, tired eyes betraying his tall, worried posture. They were here on important matters.

They had been working for the past few weeks to build their case, scrubbing down every detail of the 'contract', international law and the right of nations. They were confident, and they had enough reason to support that feeling. Yet Cami couldn't help but feel her chest tremble in anticipation, both out of sheer excitement and fear. In the stand off about to occur, there was a good chance that Caracasus would have to expose their true colors.

Private Nolondi was the Cardulan investigator sent to the meeting, a distasteful choice, but clearly a Cardulan choice. The man had thick history of arrogance during his stay, to no surprise. He strode into the room with a one-sided confidence, speaking in thick accent that clearly spoke the man's blatant thoughts. He didn't even give the Tekeri team a chance to speak until he had seemingly cleared a list.

But now wasn't the time for fear. Cami stood up as the team set their folders onto the table, pulling out copies of papers. Cami spoke in clear english, presenting a document to the Caracasusian observers.

"This is a copy of the so called 'Agreement' between Tekeristan and Cardulan.. As you may notice, there is a distinct lack of agreements, meaning none, surrounding the use of military and military equipment - especially inside Tekeristan. No where is there any sort of agreement on military trespass." she shook her head, speaking in an obviously rehearsed tone. "Thus, the contract does not give any regard towards military craft - such as the fighter jets Cardulan currently flies over Tekeristan, and the soldiers they have put inside Tekeristan."

She turned her attention downwards, pulling out another sheet of paper that detailed a nation's right of air sovereignty. "All nations.." she began "have the right to regulate its airspace and enforce its aviation law - even by force if necessary. These frequent violations of Tekeristan's airspace by military craft, which is not detailed ANYWHERE in any agreements between Cardulan and Tekeristan, are acts of war upon our nation and violations upon her sovereign rights!" She slid this paper in front of the Caracasusian officials as well, along with a few other official reports

"None of these flights are pre-reviewed or given permission by the Tekeristan government. They have absolutely no right to be present in Tekeristan! Never has Cardulan sought to reform the treaty, never have they sought to negotiate - even when they STORMED governmental offices and nearly collapsed our state!" She flared, but quickly collected herself.

"Next, while unrelated to air craft, we have the violations and damages the state of Cardulan has committed against not only Tekeristan - but the treaty. In essence, the treaty was violated by the state of Cardulan, and thus broken by them. We have reports of inhumane treatment!" she slid another paper.. "Of breaking cooperation and investigation rules!" she slid the paper referencing the raid media raid, referencing how no evidence was sited for the mass arrests, confiscations, and deportations.

"They have completely refused to work in cooperation with our offices in the investigations, going as far as to waste investigative resources on false calls!" she slid another paper, a pile growing noticeably larger. "They have confiscated vital investigation equipment!" she slides another, citing the wide-spread raid upon TISA investigative offices. "That set us back by months!" her professionalism was slowly waining. "They have frequent abuses of judge-law, sending raid notices faster than they could be processed and handled - leading to the execution of 2 people!" she slid another paper. The trend was growing, but Cami's partner, Emilian, grabbed her arm and pulled her back into reality. Cami sat back into her seat as Emilian rose.

"I believe what my partner is saying.. And proving.." he said, looking at the Caracasusian observers try to dig through the pile presented before them. "Is that the state of Cardulan is responsible for a large variety of crimes against not only the state of Tekeristan, but against the treaty. But they are going as far as to openly trespass the nation's airspace with military aircraft without any legal clauses, and so far they have only received support." he said, looking to the observers. "We find very little reason to consider this 'contract' any more valid with the amount of breaches and harm Cardulan has committed against Tekeristan. This so called "Agreement" has only been used to severely damage our people, and has allowed for a great number of wanted individuals to flee because of the extreme recklessness of Cardulan. But also to mention their extreme brutality. So far, Caracasus has only shown support for this evil."

"The 24 hour notice will remain in place, and if necessary - Tekeristan will do what is necessary to regain control of her skies. We suggest that if Cardulan wishes to acquire more time for these negotiations, and if they are truly dedicated towards lawful peace, that they pull every military element from Tekeristan immediately."

---

Northern Tekeristan

The rails rattled as the heavy train cars rolled into Tekeristan from the north. Many of the train carts were covered in non-descriptive green boxes, others completely covered in tarps, yet the cargo of the train quickly became apparent by both the armed security and the occasional open top.

With the threats facing the freedom of the Tekeristan people, anti-air weaponry was of high importance. With the current stand off, and the blatant stubbornness of Cardulan and its imperial goons, modern anti-air missiles and transportable radar were of high importance. With such high risks on the line, such as falling to Imperial rule, obtaining spare anti-air materials was the smart thing to do.

For now, the quiet cars rolled across the steel tracks. The grey skies above conspired into rain, but even the cold drizzle didn't wake the sleeping beasts of steel and hate.

[Watersville]

Waters City, Watersville

The clean up was going to be an extremely long process, nobody doubted that for certain. It was going much better than planed however as nations across the globe pitched in their help, from the air supply drops from the Yuktobanian Republic to the aid and help from Caracasus, Balagan, Cardulan, and South Cardulan. Even some independent teams from nations such as Tekeristan and Flauc had come to help. Ample work had already been made, with hundreds of dykes and levees being built across the country along with the repairs in the historical district in most cities as well as the residential districts across the nation. The Waters City International Airport was now up and running once more with hundreds of flights being returned to the airport. There were still plenty of issues and losses, with the total damage being placed at $80 billion Water Dollars and the final death toll coming to 850 people. But many in the nation took up hope that the future would be bright, and many now took spray paint to the sides of their homes for the quote "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." Many noticed a change across the nation as kindness and thanksgiving spread and neighbors started to help neighbors. The aid workers from across the world found themselves at the forefront of this, many receiving free meals for helping and free lodging at residents houses that they helped at. Many found this much nicer than staying at the hotels that they were able to stay at for free due to the fact that they were able to connect with those that they were helping in a more personal way. Even in the worst hit areas, those who had nothing to give passed out flowers that they had picked to those who helped them. The nation came together in a way that was much stronger than ever before.

On the tarmac of the Waters City International Airport

Ruby sat in the chair of the flight as it began the process of taking off. She looked down at her watch knowing it was going to be quite the flight to the city of Significant. She would be traveling alone this time, as the Smiths were attempting to recover anything that they could find in the remains of their Waters City home and Joseph tried to insure that Watersville could get the ball moving again. Ruby had plent of things that she knew she needed to do, however Joseph had asked her to participate in the meetings for him. She had of course accepted and began packing. She looked down at the schedule for the flights movies and sighed. "Man this list of movies isn't very good, is it?" Ruby looked up to see who it was, a smile creeping onto her face. "Greg, so nice to see you, but I must ask, what are you doing going on a trip to Significant?" The leader of the Watersvillian Green party smiled. "Well, the king asked me to accompany you on the journey, so I agreed." Ruby smiled, knowing now that she would not be alone.

From: The Royal House of Waters City and Watersville
To: The nations of the world

The kindness and generosity that has been shown to us over the past few days has been extremely helpful and we would like to thank those of you who are helping to create a stronger Watersville. We are know looking into how we can repay the debt of friendship that this has caused and we will let you know what will come out of this. I m also writing to you today to inform you of the departure of Ruby McClaw and Greg Streets from Watersville today for the conference in Significance, who are expected to arrive within the next 18 hours. We hope that our arrival to the meetings will help to further peace and stability into a region where we have seen yet another flare up of violence.

Sincerely,
HRH Joseph Waters of the Kingdom of Watersville and Waters City

[Balagan]

Demirtaş was looking very pleased by the developments. "Yes, thank you Baron Anarion. I think that is a very workable plan. Schools and homes will be handed over to local administration. Balagan is not interested in a long-term occupation of any part of Menthi. We want out as soon as possible. I think we need to hear what the diplomats from Flauc have to say." With a swift move he takes out his phone and sends a few messages to the local commanders. He than turns to the delegate from Caracasus. "I have the feeling that Commander Dektash has done something right. I think it would be best to combine the awarding of the two honors to one event. That way we will also send a message that we are all willing to work together in putting an end to this conflict as soon as possible."

With a concerned look he turned to the host. "What are your precautions to make sure that such events will not happen again in Significance? I think that a purge of the military might be a good first step. Start at the top and comb down to the bottom. You have to understand, Significance is a failed state. You had terrorists running around with your nuclear arms. You clearly need oversight to get your nation running again."

[Tekeristan]

---

Tekeristan Coast

The rumble of truck engines and the beams of headlights had taken control of the night as the steel beasts of war were brought from their cages and lots to answer their nations call. Many of the sleeping beasts were new, built of composites and polymers, some were the cold feelingless steel of old. Yet all had a purpose.

For weeks they have been preparing, planning, and mobilizing, just like Cardulan and their approaching invasion fleets. It was in these solemn hours that the aggression of Cardulan continued, attempting to crush total submission from the Republic and her people - but they would find only the absolute determination of Her free people. With Cardulan's military stubbornness against all reason, as well as their approaching fleets, Tekeristan was prepared for war.

To fall to Cardulan would be the fall of freedom and bravery, the destruction of the way of life they had fought to preserve: where everyone could love, to speak and think as people, to vote and have the right to live life both free and beautiful. In her twisted envy and rage, the Witch Queen of Cardulan sought to extinguish the free rights of man - seeking to destroy the last of the Republics brave enough to stand against her oppression and cruelty, those smart enough to defend themselves against her corrupting influence.

Everyone knew what awaited them in surrender: the Witch Queen's inhuman cruelty. 50 years or more of forced labor in a faraway land, never to return to their homeland and never to see or hear from their loved ones again - exile and slavery, a fate worse than death. Tekeristan was worth fighting for.

So they dug, they wove the grasses and leaves, and bunkers were built into the coast to watch the sea and the valleys beyond. The military pulled into the city of Constanta, erecting road blocks and issuing patrols. To the North, the "River Otters' were rumored to slip into the waters of the Danube. The steel beasts arose from their slumber, their foul breath soon thickening in the air as their lenses gleamed predatory. As the solemn hours of the 24 hour issue ticked closer to its end without sign of withdraw, Tekeristan would be ready.

[Watersville]

Waters City, Watersville

The Ministry of Defense and Security building, one of the only buildings not touched by flood waters in the historical district of Waters City.

The meeting had been planned well in advance of the storms that were set to hit, and now the time came for the meeting. Several people beat around the long table, including the King as well as the leaders of the Balagani, Caracasusian, Cardulan, South Cardulan, and Yukotobania. The king once again thanked each for their help before continuing to speak. "We would like to begin by updating each of your teams on the current progress of the recovery efforts. To begin, we should look at flooded regions in the nation." The king clicked a button which led to a screen appearing with a map of the nation, several areas soon were covered with a blue tint. "After the storms came through, we can estimate that approximately 35% of the nations land area was covered in at least 1 foot of water. Now, however, that amount is around .2%". As he said this, the blue tint receded in almost all of the areas. "The only area where we are still having issues is in and around Ocean City, which has been combed over by Balagani rescue personnel as well as by Watersvillian Army patrols. As we speak, the engineers who were working at the International Airport have been moved to that region and are working on a solution." The screen then went darker as the King continued. "Another issue we were facing was the loss of power, which was virtually 100% across the nation. We have gotten around 80% of the power restored at this point." The map then began growing yellow in most regions minus the Cardinal Islands and the Southern Islands. "We have power crews working around the clock working to get the power back on in the areas that are darkened right now, and they are working with South Cardulan Workers as well as the Flauc volunteers that came. The final thing that we have been working on has been the resettlement of those whom have lost their homes." Now a bar chart appeared, with several large bars climbing the screen. "As you can see, nearly 85% of the residents of the nation have had sustainable damage to their homes, with the highest amount being in the Cardinal Islands at 96% and the lowest being in the Northern parts of the Main Island at around 38%. Over the past several days, Caracasusian volunteers along with the Tekeristani volunteers that arrived to help have brought some of these numbers down, and latest estimates have that temporary housing has been set up for 93% of those who cannot go home." With that, the screen rose as the lights in the room began to brighten once more. "Again, we thank you for your generosity and help, we would love answer any questions that you might have." The king smiled as he looked around, unsure if anyone even had many questions to begin with.

Meanwhile, in the same building three floors up

The group of people who had gathered here were here for a much different reason than those downstairs. These people were much more secretive than the meeting downstairs was. This was because this meeting was a matter of national security, not just for Watersville, but for the world. The threat was from an unknown source, but it's contents were extremely worrisome. Itt was still even unclear why the threat had come to Watersville when Watersville was not even included within the threat itself.

FROM: FO@W?&8%^(*&@!
TO: Watersvillian Ministry of Defense and Security

ENCRYPTION: MAX

Hello all,

We are the FO@W?&8%^(*&@!Sorry that we have to block out our name, however we wouldn't want to spoil the fun, would we? We write to you today not about you, but about others. You see, we do not care for a certain nation, one whose name begins with a "C." Which country, well you will see. I am sure that you can guess, because they are a nation that has upset people with their current actions. Still don't know? Well, that is too bad, because we are currently planning attacks in their top five largest population centers as we speak. Don't worry, I guess you could send a message to both of those nations with a warning, but i guess everyone will find out at some point, won't they?

Sincerely,
FO@W?&8%^(*&@!

P.S. - We are sorry to hear about the hurricane, we hope that you can read this message, we wouldn't want there to not be any warning...

After reading the message, the group knew that the message meant one of two countries, either Caracasus or Cardulan, but which was it? The decision was to send a message to both nations and to attach the message to both nations to be on the safe side.

TO: Caracasusian Internal Security; Cardulan Royal Ministry of Security
FROM: The Watersvillian Ministry of Defense and Security

It is with shock that I write to you today, as we feel that a credible threat has been made against either Caracasus or Cardulan because we received a note threatening of an attack on either of your "Five largest population centers." As you will also be able to see, the name of the organization responsible for said threat has blanked out their name, and after much work, we were still unable to find which group was responsible for said threat. We have contacted both of your nations because we feel that either of your nations is under threat. We hope that this does not amount to anything, however as the saying goes "better to be prepared rather than surprised."

With concern,
Tomas DeFazio, Head of the Ministry of Defense and Security

[Caracasus]

Ferrum. Caracasusian embassy

The Cardulans and Tekeristanis stared at each other across the expanse of table. The silence as the Cardulan skimmed the folders containing the agreement across the table. War was on the horizon once more; already Caracasusian concerns had begun to leave Tekeristan, to leave Ferrum. Tanks, troop transports... all these had become common sights in the last few days.

Caracasusian predictions indicated serious losses on both sides, given everything currently known. Worse still were the predictions for Tekeristani area and territories. A total collapse of already stretched infrastructure. A winter war with thousands left to starve.

“If we may suggest a compromise.”

“Compromise! On what? There is nothing left to compromise! We have nothing more we can give, nothing! The deadline is final.”

“Nonetheless. A compromise. Caracasus continues the investigations. There honestly cannot be much left to uncover. Caracasusian investigators can break down government and military departments into units of eighteen. Inspections will take place among eight of the selected eighteen units on a two day notice. Enough time to prepare equipment and files for inspection.”

The Caracasusian coughed.

“In addition, we will have constantly moving units of inspectors on a one hour announcement. They will understand that not everything will be open to them – through sheer practicality's sake. Their job will be to ensure that files and documents are not being moved between departments or otherwise concealed.”

“We will also prepare sixteen drones primed with ground penetrating radar. Our previous areal sweeps have uncovered many interesting things, a mass grave dating back several centuries... the remains of a plague village from the early medieval era... we have not yet uncovered any weapons cache or silo but if we do...”

“Any and all evidence regarding historic war crimes in Oehiton will be made a matter of record... security will have to be provided by Tekeristani operatives as our own have been removed. As a final clause, if our investigations are impeded in any way barring unforeseen and unavoidable problems – a hurricane perhaps – we will completely withdraw and leave any and all investigations back in the hands of Cardulan.”

He sighed. “Listen. The governments of Cardulan and Tekeristan wished Caracasus to act as an intermediary and yet we have found this task... difficult. Give us free reign here. Allow us to do what you asked of us and we will deliver. Surely another few months would be a price worth paying for peace?”

---

The Crocodile and the Inspector

Dekkard entered the Crocodile bar. One of a new set of establishments catering for “world cuisine” it offered, to his admittedly untrained eye and pallet, tastes of the world. Platters of Watersvillian picked fish lay next to deep ceramic dishes of Balagani ground lamb koobideh, parsley and fried onions wafting from the platters. Deep tin dishes of Caracasusian chopped vegetables or butter cooked chicken with chilli lent an overwhelming air of spice and flavour to the cafe.

Yohan was sat at a long trestle table, underneath several cloth hangings from some far away land. Gold and black markings upon them, they seemed to represent abstract shapes and patterns. The window was underneath a neon sign, and in the darkness of an overcast day it flickered on and off, casting a strange glow across the table.

Dekkard sat.

“This... this is not about the paperwork is it?” Yohan asked, fork full of noodles.

“No. I assume your office sent word?” Yohan nodded, ever so slightly. Dekkard sighed.

“Mr Yohan Patel, I have reason to believe you are concealing evidence pertinent to a potential crime. A device, an illegal recording device known colloquially as a Djinn. Perhaps you picked it up without knowing what it was. Either way, this device is pertinent to an ongoing investigation...”

A swift movement from Yohan, he reached into his pocket and withdrew the flat, blocky plastic Djinn. Placed it upon the table in between the two of them.

“This? Yes. I picked it up from the late Mr Sull's home.”

“Why?” Yohan shook his head, took a sip of water and swallowed his noodles.

“No Mr Dekkard. I must admit you have my interest. I... had heard of secret units before but... to meet a member of such a unit? I have so many questions. So. A game I think. A question. An honest answer. No lies, no withholding information.”

Dekkard sighed. It had been a long day. “And if I take you in for withholding information?” Yohan nodded in a manner that irritated Dekkard more than he'd care to admit.

“You could most certainly do that. My diplomatic immunity will only extend so far. No doubt I would find myself reassigned to another nation – or of course if it was deemed less beneficial to have me moved... you might be. Either way, you will lose. Don't you want to know why I took the Djinn device? Why Baron Sull's son wound up dead in an apartment? What his last words were? Play the game this way and...”

Dekkard frowned. Leaned forward. “Ask then!”

Yohan smiled. “How did you know about the device?”

“We were told that Mr Sull had such a device on his person. The Stiner unit thought it... better if we were in possession of it. Now my question? Why did you take the device?”

Yohan unfolded his hands, laid them on the table.

“Baron Sull is a good friend of mine. I have reason to suspect that his recent... involvement with groups less fond of the prospect of eternal war with Tekeristan has made him a target. I had been in contact with the boy's father enough to know what his weaknesses were. Armon was his. I feared that such a device would be passed around the station, would be leaked in some way. Which leads me to my next question. Your unit. Why was it not the first on the scene?”

Dekkard had been wondering the same thing himself. Was it intentional? It was one of the reasons he continued to sit through Yohan's speeches. “We... don't know. Our communications equipment suffered a minor glitch that evening that required immediate repair. When the call came in, the communications equipment was offline. Now my question. Have you examined that device?”

Yohan nodded. “Not to the extent you will but... yes. It contains a message to myself from Armon regarding a conspiracy that he believed he had uncovered – something to do with Tekeristan. It also contains textbook seditious material – all downloaded within one hour of each other. That... strikes me as strange.”

In spite of himself Dekkard thought out loud. “That... that is not how deviants work. Why download everything like that? Such people tend to download sporadically – bit by bit. The longer you maintain a connection, the higher the chance that.... Hmm... Anyway, Mr Patel. Your question?”

Yohan grinned. The neon light playing on his face. “That is quite alright Mr Dekkard. My question is this – who is Red Top?”

---

Significance

"Indeed. We are all fortunate that Commander Dektash happened to be the one in charge at the time. Next time we may not be so lucky. The state of Menthi is..."

He paused. "At times like these we need to talk numbers. Statistics. I have a report here for you, I will try not to bore you by reading out all of it however, I would draw your attentions to this section here."

"Since the start of the recent conflict, 415,023 Menthians have crossed the border into Caracasus as refugees. Our resources are not infinite, though we are not at breaking point yet. Still.. that is a half million people who require all kinds of specialist treatment, aid and support. Many believe that they will never be able to return home, especially those who have fled from areas now occupied by Carosi. Of those people, at least forty thousand were infected by the Carosi plague. Our mathematicians predict that anywhere between ten and thirty per cent of Menthians will develop this illness in the next month."

"And here we have Karthos. I... do not know what strategic or economic value people hoped to gain from the capture of Menthi however... there is less now than there ever was. Recent photographs indicate that ninety per cent of Karthos's productive capability is damaged beyond repair. Our predictions place Jarka and Peni at similar levels. Food goes unharvested in fields, whilst many remain unworkable due to unexploded ordinance. Menthi has no exports, cannot grow enough food to support itself and it appears that foreign investors are fleeing the country. We are witnessing a humanitarian disaster unseen since the destruction of Oehiton."

Here he turned to the delegate from Parsoh. "Unfortunately, records and census data kept by the last administration was... patchy to say the least. Even worse, this data was lost during a great fire in Jarka. Parsoh may be able to assist here - I believe that some organisations kept records of Menthian cities and populations due to ongoing trade deals. I would ask that humanitarian aid groups be given this information so that we can better plan a response to this crisis."

---

Watersvillian Ministry of Defense and Security – 21:35


The building at night

It was approaching night time and the lights began to burn brighter. Across the city they reflected in watery mirrors, scattering among the pavements.

Inspector Garber of the Caracasusian Internal Security division had been called out to the Ministry. She passed through six checkpoints, handed her firearm in at the first and received numerous checks on identity. Watersville took precautions with this kind of intelligence.

Already, Caracasusian IntSec had gone over the message. They left as clueless as the Watersvillians had. There were few clues, a couple of parallels between known violent groups... other than that? Nothing. Garber was here to see what had been sent with the message. The item that had singled it out among the other crackpot letters and messages that all nations' security forces received.

And there it was. An Orion device. Highly illegal and very expensive. The technology that constructed it had been erased from history... almost. Perhaps a handful of labs in the world retained the knowledge just in case... something similar was constructed.

The little sphere glowed dully, sending a shiver up Garber's back. She had read the reports. She knew what the device would do. It was the ultimate weapon of terror. All but impossible to detect and lethal. This one had arrived deactivated. A message. See what we can do.

Upon activation it would produce a cloud of fast acting nanites that would seek out the bloodstream of any living being nearby. Upon ingestion through the lungs or mucus membrane, the nanites would busily convert the host organism's blood into a powerful explosive. Detonating minutes later. Released in a crowded area... Garber shuddered. What defense could possibly exist against such a weapon?

[Balagan]

Significance
Demirtaş listened to the speech and did not object it.

"Yes, you are right from an economic point of view the place is worthless. It will cost billions to rebuild something and that will only set the few survivors to zero. The only positive thing I can find at the moment is the small area effected by this conflict."

He points at the map again. "We have found a rout around the blocking of the cure, Cardulan is financing the reconstruction of the security zone, these are a few small successes of this meeting." He sighed. "Carosi and Menthi have come to an agreement regarding the territory. Tanaka has already done a lot to make peace. He signed the treaty and he gave away this territory. I think that is more than all of the other fractions have done. Combined. He also has frequently offered amnesties and political participation. The parliament has representatives from every relevant group of society that was willing to participate. I think Tanaka has done a lot. Why is it that his actions are not rewarded? Accepting his rule as legitimate and signing the treaty would effectively end the conflict."