Fleet Week 2011 at Layarteb City (IC Thread)

by **Layarteb** » Fri May 06, 2011 7:07 am

OOC: Pictures of all my ships to be added later, I am at work (shhh) so I can't add them right now. Yes you may post (if you have registered). If you have not registered then you still can, mosey on over to the OOC thread located here and just register. Late entries are always accepted, this is a fun RP and not a strict one.

REGISTER FOR FLEET WEEK 2011 TO PARTICIPATE
REGISTRATIONS OPEN UNTIL THE END OF THE RP
REGISTER HERE

Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 08:30 hrs [UTC-5]
Layarteb City Harbor, Layarteb City

Fleet Week 2011 was kicking off with a bang. The 6th Carrier Strike Group from Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands, part of the Empire's 6th Fleet, the "Reserve Fleet," was begin to pull into Layarteb City Harbor. The group consisted of twelve warships, most of which were escorts protecting the medium-sized, Washington class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. Displacing 65,000 long tons, the Washington class was a surprise debut to Fleet Week. This was the first time in nearly a decade that the Empire was going to debut three ships to the world. Normally it was just two.

Events wrote:
[size=110]SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Thursday, May 5
8:30 to 11:00: Parade of Ships
12:00 to 13:00: Opening Ceremonies
17:30 to 19:00: Welcoming Ceremonies for International Dignitaries
21:30 to 04:00: Celebration Ball at Waldorf-Astoria

Friday, May 6
09:00: Opening of all Exhibits
11:00 to 18:00: Air Show at Layarteb City Air Force Base
12:00 to 14:00: Officers & Family Luncheon with the Emperor
14:15 to 14:35: Emperor's Address to the Nation
15:30 to 16:30: Macha class Debut
18:00 to 20:00: Veterans dinner with the Emperor
19:00: Closing of all Exhibits
21:00 to 01:00: Veterans Ball at Tower of Luna

Saturday, May 7
9:00: Opening of all Exhibits
11:00 to 18:00: Air Show at Layarteb City Air Force Base
11:30 to 12:00: Imperial Layartebian Marine Corps Demonstration
12:00 to 16:00: All International Demonstrations
12:30 to 13:00: Special Operations Demonstration
15:30 to 16:30: Noroflk class Debut
19:00: Closing of all Exhibits
20:00 to 02:00: Foreign Dignitaries Ball on Liberty Island

Sunday, May 8
9:00: Opening of all Exhibits
12:00 to 16:00: All International Demonstrations
13:00 to 14:00: A Tribute to Space Exploration
20:00 to 02:00: Emperor's Ball at the Empire State Building

Monday, May 9
9:00: Opening of all Exhibits
09:00 to 10:00: Presentation of Medals Ceremony
11:00 to 13:00: Awardees Luncheon
16:30 to 17:30: Closing Ceremonies

Tuesday, May 10
8:30 to 14:00: Departure of ships

The twelve warships of the 6th Carrier Strike Group began steaming into Layarteb City Harbor at precisely 08:30 hours, right on time. Leading the way was one of the group's two Verrazano class anti-submarine destroyers. Displacing 6,970 long tons, she was nuclear powered like many other vessels in the Imperial Layartebian Navy and thus her hull code was DDEN. Her primary role was simple, sweep for, hunt for, and locate enemy submarines and, when found, blast them out of the water. The Empire had eighty-six of them in service.

Behind the Verrazano was one of the group's two Dnalkrad class anti-aerial warfare frigates. Bigger than the Verrazano's, they displaced 9,517 long tons and, like the Verrazano had a simple role. It was to sweep for, hunt for, and locate enemy aircraft and, when found, blast them out of the sky. They carried the hull code FFGN and cost a billion dollars a piece but they protected every Layartebian surface group and like the Verrazano, the Empire had eighty-six of them in service.

Then came one of the group's three Voodoo class destroyers. General purpose destroyers, they were classified as DDGN and displaced 8,500 long tons. They Empire had an astounding one hundred and seventy-seven in surface and could do anti-submarine, anti-surface, and anti-air duties; although, they general concentrated on anti-surface. Likewise, the Verrazano and Dnalkrad could do anti-surface duties but only the Verrazano could do anti-submarine duties. The Dnalkrad could not as it carried no sonar equipment. The Verrazano could also do anti-air duties. The Voodoo's were Layartebian-produced versions of a Questerian destroyer, built for nuclear power and the Imperial Layartebian Military by the Layartebian Defense Corporation. A second Voodoo followed closely behind.

Fifth in line was one of the three ships the Empire would debut, the 46,105 long ton battlecruiser, the Macha class. Classified as BCGN, they were nuclear powered and equipped with powerful guns. Built to complement the mighty and gigantic Overburdened class battleships, the Macha's could make mincemeat out of any surface contact whether it was in its gun range or not. Equipped with powerful and deadly anti-ship, anti-surface, anti-submarine, and anti-air missiles, the Macha was a floating arsenal boat that was meant to go into the hairest situations and lend fire support to Marines or pour missiles against targets beyond the horizon. Six were in service and six more were in the planning and evaluation stages.

Behind the Macha came the magnificent Unforgiven class cruiser, which had been debuted only several years earlier. Displacing 31,185 long tons, they were larger than the Kirovs used by many nations. They were nuclear powered and carried the hull classification of CGN. They were the real juggernaut of the Empire's battlegroups. They carried an impressive missile loadout that could silence any enemy and the seventy-seven of them in service, when combined, carried more firepower than entire navies.

Behind the Unforgiven was a Supply class logistics ship. Displacing 58,800 long tons, they were fast combat replenishment ships classifed as T-AOE. They were designed to carry arms, fuel, and stores and kept battlegroups resupplied while underway. Forty-three were in service with the Empire.

Then came the Virginia Flight II class attack submarine. A small but deadly vessel, the Virginia was among the quietest submarines in the world and between the Flight II and Flight III classes, the Empire had one hundred and forty-nine in service. Primarily used for anti-submarine warfare, they could lend their weaponry to strike land and surface targets as well as covertly spy on other nations, insert Special Forces, and conduct any manner of underwater missions.

Behind the Virginia came the Washington class medium carrier. Displacing 65,000 long tons, she wasn't nearly as large as the Luna's or mighty Enterprise class carriers but she was certainly deadly. Nuclear powered, she was originally offered for export as a conventionally powered, modern carrier for nations needing carrier capability but not needing a super carrier. With just five in service, the Washington was replacing the Empire's older, lighter, Ynoga class carriers. They carrier fifty-two aircraft whereas the Ynoga's only carried twenty-four. They had far more firepower and they patrolled the high seas keeping Layartebian interests and shipping safe, enforcing Layartebian foreign policy where needed.

The rest of the Layartebian parade of ships included the final Voodoo, Dnalkrad, Verrazano vessels, in that specific order. The Norfolk class would be arriving later in the morning and would take up dock along with these vessels. Save for the Virginia class, all of them would be available for public tours but tours would be guided and kept to specific areas. Classified areas were naturally off-limits and these included the CIC, radio rooms, and engineering spaces, among others. Furthermore, areas considered too dangerous to civilians were off-limits too. Though Layartebian ships were built with every consideration to crew safety in mind, they weren't necessarily built to give lumbering civilians with little children tours. Freshly cleaned and painted, these vessels arrived in Layarteb City with thousands upon thousands lining the coastline of Manhattan, Staten Island, Liberty Island, Ellis Island, and New Jersey. Flags were everywhere and people cheered the arrival of the Imperial Layartebian Navy. Fleet Week was a happy time in Layarteb City and always had been, regardless of where the Empire was in the worlds' state of affairs.

Thus far, outside of the Empire, the Empire of Banjamos, the United Provinces of Bavin, the Hegemony of Zepplien, the Royal Monarchy of Bisgea, the Spirit of Hope, the Dominion of Lubyak, the Empire of Hi No Moto, the Realm of Cotland, the Empire of Newtdom, the People's Nation of Alfegos, the Incorporated States of Risen Britannia, the Armed Republic of Lowell Leber, the Holy Empire of ELMstrapha, and Guruda had all accepted the Empire's invitation to Fleet Week 2011 at Layarteb City. They would be arriving after the Layartebian vessels and until 11:00 hours, ships would be arriving, coming down the corridor towards their docks in Manhattan and New Jersey.[/size]

OOC: Alright so we're a day behind so you might as well post your stuff arriving and getting into the next day to catch up. We're not going to really stay day-to-day but there's no reason we can't just keep it going free form and just post as such. Please just do me one favor, post whatever day it is at the top of your post so we know what's going on around Fleet Week. Otherwise, let the fun begin!

Yes you may post (if you have registered). If you have not registered then you still can, mosey on over to the OOC thread located here and just register. Late entries are always accepted, this is a fun RP and not a strict one.

by **Lowell Leber** » Fri May 06, 2011 8:00 am

Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 10:00 Hours
Layarteb City Harbor, Layarteb City

The 70,000 ton LLS Yuengling slowly made her way down the channel to her berthing dock. All crew otherwise not engaged stood at the railing in full dress uniform. The Yuengling was the lead ship of the most recently launched class of twelve warships by the Armed Republic's naval yards. A graceful vessel, to some she represented the backwards thinking of Fleet Command. Not many nations were still launching new battleships in the 21st century.

But she was most definately not a backwards design. Although her armament of twelve 16 inch guns made her appear to be just another traditional battleship, the VLS for her Anti-Ship, Cruise, AA, and ASW missles provided a much greater offensive capability. And her Sensor and Processing systems were highly advanced. The gas turbine propulsion system enabled speeds up to 35 knots, more than sufficient to keep up with the carrier task forces that these ships were designed to operate with.

That said, the men onboard and the government of AROLL were not attending the Feet Week activities in Layarteb City to show off technical achievements nor to awe other nations. The government considered this a first step in building stronger relations with the Layarteb nation. And for the sailors in meant a few days of impressing ladies in their sharp dress whites.

by **Elmstrapha** » Fri May 06, 2011 9:35 am

As the two flagships of the imperial navy took their line, the people of ELMstrapha who had decided to attend were amazed at all of the ships and the massive crowd awaiting them. For these were no-ordinary ships, these were the highest level ships in development and part of the Crown Fleet. For the people of ELMstrapha it was a time to see new people and to well get drunk...But for the navy it was all these reasons plus the woman who were, they were told, the best in the region.

by **Layarteb** » Fri May 06, 2011 9:45 am

OOC: FYI spoiler's are the most annoying things on NS. You can just post your pic into the thread it's fine.

by **Elmstrapha** » Fri May 06, 2011 9:50 am

Layarteb wrote:OOC: FYI spoiler's are the most annoying things on NS. You can just post your pic into the thread it's fine.

sorry but I only know how to get the link up and it makes more space if I use spoilers.

by **Risen Britannia** » Fri May 06, 2011 10:37 am

The GROUP-17 "Thunder" Destroyer slowly moved towards her dock, her crew lining the deck. She was not the fastest or biggest of ships, but that didn't matter. What did matter was what she carried. With VLS launched missiles able to hit out to 2,500km, defences against most sorts of attacks and advance electronic systems she was the most perfect multi-role destroyer out there. On-board aside from the crew there was also on were 10 military viewers, here to get ideas for the coming Group-18 ships.

OOC: I have a few other ships I can bring if you want. These are the current fleet that I have made viewtopic.php?f=23&t=109818

by **Guruda** » Fri May 06, 2011 12:30 pm

Thursday, May 5th
10:30 hours

The GNS Liberty was sailing into Layarteb City Harbor. The Liberty was a guided missle cruiser, and for this special voyage had the usual 400 crewmember compliment, but had an extra 20 Special Operations forces with two MH-60 Pavehawk's on the back to work in the Special Forces Demonstration. On the bow of the ship, Seaman Daniels and Chief Petty Officer Harkin were looking out on the harbor. Both worked in the Electronic Warfare Suite, and joined other sailors with time off to observe. They watched the citizens waving and observing the ships passing through, as well as the other warships in the harbor.
[Daniels] "Can you believe we're getting paid to do this?" He said with a smirk. "Pretty much a vacation."
[Harkin] "Can't say I've done it before. And we're the only ship in the nation to do it too. Feels kinda wierd getting to wear this white dress uniform all the time here. Seems like I've barely used it during my time in the Navy.
[Daniels] "Hey, we've gotta feel fancy for once. Besides, they look fancy. We may not have the biggest and toughest Navy in the world, but we can at least try to look the best!"
[Harkin] "That is true. I heard those Special Forces guys we have aboard are planning something pretty cool, that's the rumor anyway. That should help our cause."
[Daniels] "Oh yeah, I'm definitely excited for that. I talked to one of them in the mess hall the other day, they're pretty interesting people."
[Harkin] "That's a big ship over there, who's is that? I think it's Lowell Leber."
[Daniels] "Looks like it. Doesn't make our boat seem so big anymore, does it?"
[Harkin] "You're right. Sure it's impreesive on the inside too, I hope we get to check it out. This is gonna be a fun few days."

by **Newtdom** » Fri May 06, 2011 12:36 pm

(I am assuming the Verrazano is still there, so I can't get into the Upper Bay)

Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 10:30 A.M.
Lower Bay, Layarteb City
Bridge of the NRS Imperium

Crown Prince Newt stood leaning against the hull door to the fly bridge. He gazed out across the bay and saw various groups of Layarteb citizens enjoying the beginning of Fleet Week on the FDR boardwalk. The Prince, an experienced Commodore in the Newtdom Royal Navy, tried to ignore the urge to take command of the newest class of Super Dreadnoughts produced by the Empire. He stepped out onto the fly bridge, his blue flag officer's cloak blowing in the salty air. He raised his white gloved hand and pointed to the officer of the watch. It was time.

A boatswain's call went out across the ship. The order was for all non-essential personnel to be topside in dress uniform. The crew quickly lined up around the entire hull, each man at the appropriate muster station, and organized by company. Had you been watching the massive gray ship, the white outline of the crew saluting the citizens of Layarteb was only broken by the periodical blue coat of an officer.

The NRS Imperium is the namesake of the newest class of Super Dreadnoughts in the Newtdom Royal Navy. Already ten had been commissioned with four more nearing completion and one just having its keel laid. The Empire would begin deploying Imperium Battle Groups within the year after a major shake-up in naval organization.

Some say the dreadnought and super dreadnought were nothing more than phallic symbols. Paper tigers. The Empire will prove them wrong. The heavily armed and armored Imperium Class offered the perfect compliment of weaponry and technology. All needs were met for defense and offense. No weakness on paper other than the fact all ships sink.

She was fast and nimble in the water despite her gargantuan size. Able to meet these needs with the addition of a waterjet propulsion system. She would not be hindered by props and screws.

As she silently swept through the waves, ever nearing her mooring point just south of the Verrazano Bridge she began to slow. The Prince looked at Duke Hollistein and said "My Grace, is your diplomatic team ready?"

Hollistein nodded "Yes, your Highness. Shall we begin boarding the tender?"

The Prince nodded and made his way with his staff and guards to the Imperial tender brought on so the Prince could be comfortable. The 35ft 1953 Chris Craft Commander was a gift to the Prince's grandfather by the Sultan of Brunei on the announcement of his son's, Emperor Newt XX, birth.

by **Spirit of Hope** » Fri May 06, 2011 7:26 pm

ooc: sorry i'm late

The ARWS Freedoms Torch moved down the channel, all crew not manning their stations were at attention on deck. The Navy personnel wore their blue dress uniforms, while the marines wore their blood red dress uniforms. All personnel were looking their finest, many had stayed up late to make sure their uniforms were spotless.

At the bridge First Admiral Janet Daley overlooked them all, a slight smile touched her face as she looked down at them. Next to her Captain James Linden stood at attention showing his pride of command to all. On the First Admirals other side stood her family, Dr. Nathan Daley her husband, First Lieutenant Harrison Daley her son, and Rebecca Daley her teenaged daughter.

As the ARWS slid in to dock the Marine Honor Guard gave a 21 gun salute.
"That's are signal," the First Admiral told her family, "Time to go be diplomats." With that the Admirals family headed off to do their duty.

by **Cotland** » Sat May 07, 2011 7:19 am

Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 09:30 hrs [UTC-5]
Layarteb City Harbor, Layarteb City
HMS Rogaland

The crew of the missile cruiser HMS Rogaland had been busy for the past few days, making the final preperations for one of the most popular annual events in the Royal Cottish Navy -- participation in the Layartebian Fleet Week event. The crew had deserved this particular libery call, since the Admiralty awarded participation in Fleet Week to units which had distinguished themselves over the past year in either combat, fleet-wide efficiency ratings, or both. Rogaland had distinguished herself in all efficiency ratings and in combat, providing rapid, effective naval gunfire support to the Royal Marines off Socotra, and had thus earned herself the deployment to Layarteb City.

Fleet Week was a renowned and much-wanted liberty call, and the crews had cheered when they learned that they would go. The cheers hadn't been so loud last night when the off-cuty crew had been mustered to cleaning stations. While Cottish warships in general were subject to high standards with regards to cleaning and hygiene, even when sailing (crews were expected to clean their assigned areas when they were relieved at their posts), during special occations, the cleaning was intensified. After a four-hour spell at cleaning, during which time everything aboard shone like it was brand new, the inspecting officers were satisfied and the off-duty crews were released from cleaning stations for the night. This morning, the crews had gone briefly to cleaning stations again, removing whatever bits of dust and dirt that had emerged over the night, before changing from the duty uniforms to the parade uniforms and manning the rails.

Similar activities were taking place aboard the other three ships that made up the Cottish contribution to the Fleet Week event this year. Apart from Rogaland, two destroyers and an amphibious landing ship was participating in the celebrations this year, with almost 1500 Cottish sailors and 850 Royal Marines joining the thousands of others for a week of displays and partying. Wise from experience, the Cottish embassy in Layarteb City had already established several response teams, ready to move out to the various police precincts and hospital emergency rooms to bail out Cottish sailors who had managed to get themselves to these installations. Granted, the Cots were warned to be on their best behavior, but with so many foreigners of many different cultures, not to mention local barroom heroes who might take it the wrong way when the Cottish sailors started hitting on the local womenfolk, there were bound to be some friction and incidents.

That was something to worry about later though. As for now, the Cottish ships sailed into the harbor in a sharp formation, with Rogaland leading the formation, followed closely by the destroyer Kraftig, the amphibious ship Kvithav, and lastly the destroyer Mårhund. The cannons on the ships were elevated 45 degrees, helicopters shone from where they were parked on the helicopter decks on the various ships, parade-dressed sailors manned the railings, and signal flags fluttered sharply in the wind as the ships paraded up the Hudson river towards their assigned berths.

As the ships passed Governor's Island, one by one, they rendered honours to the Layartebian hosts by firing their saluting guns, which were answered from the Fortress on the island.

After passing the Island, the order to dissolve the formation was given from the flagship, and the ships then proceeded individually to their assigned berths, where they would moor gracefully and with style, as was befitting for the Royal Cottish Navy. Very soon, the ships would start accepting visitors, who would be allowed to move relatively freely on the decks, where sailors were strategically positioned to answer questions from the visitors and stop the visitors from entering the restricted areas of the ships. Guided tours would be allowed on some ships, and some activities aboard the ships were arranged. So too was the cafés aboard the Cottish ships, where the Cottish offered refreshers and snacks for wary visitors for a small cost. Restricted areas such as the comms centre, tactical operations centre, crew quarters and lounges, and engineering spaces were naturally off-limits for visitors, and all classified information and equipment in the areas where visitors could go had been removed or covered and guarded by sailors. On all ships, an armed quick reaction force was maintained in readiness in the lounges, ready to react to any incident that might occur.

It wouldn't be long until the majority of the Cottish sailors would be released to enjoy what Layarteb City had to offer.

by **Alfegos** » Sat May 07, 2011 10:52 am

May 5 - 1000 hours

"Good morning good morning, and welcome to Layarteb City! The sun is out, the forecast for today is excellent, and all that co-inciding with one of the biggest events in the calander, Fleet Week 2011! Alongside the highly anticipated releases of three new vessels from those mighty shipyards of Layarteb, the prides of fleets from around the world are today coming to show off their best."

The radio blared as the crew looked out over the seas. The craft had been cruising all night, yet with a favourable wind had merely been idling. And now, the assembled men in a mix of cleanest working uniform and shining parade uniform looked out through the windows of the gondola down at the land coming up ahead of them. They had a GPS position offshore, where their display would be set up. The sound of chatter and the jubilant transmission was cut off as the airship pilot spoke.
"Formation, descend from 1000 metres to 50 metres, throttle back and prepare for parade."
Their flight plan was as such that their craft would pass the main city, the shallow water perfectly able to handle airship and ekranoplan alike, whilst allowing all onshore to take a good look at the goods that had been brought. To the sound of light rock, the craft descended slowly, helium pumped from the many gas cells across the vessel back into the reserve storage, then being vented as peak capacity was reached. The giant tail elevators rose, forcing the 800 metre long craft downwards, until it finally reached the flight level. Gently levelling off, the giant prop engines changed tone as the craft slowed down, to a mere 40 km/h. Behind, the second of its type joined in - yet another Thassalas-Clipper. One of the latest innovations from Alfegos Aeronautics, the most advanced heavy-lifting airship on the market, it combined modular payload capability with an advanced heavy-lifting structure. Within 24 hours, it could be converted from standard cargo to a VTOL carrier, or to a combat RIRO vehicle transport with armaments, or to a fire-fighting vessel, or to a mobile crane. With nearly 6000 tonnes of payload capacity available, it was more than capable of dousing entire forests, or lifting entire buildings into position.

For now, the two vessels were moving in two sample configurations - combat RIRO carrier, and VTOL carrier. The former, at the rear of the formation, carried all the vehicles, crew and equipment necessary to support the aircraft brought along, and the men who would be running the show. The latter carried the aircraft being bought along to the show, a few of which could be launched from offshore but the rest needing to be set down at the airport.

Behind, the smallest of the vessels cut through the air - a Tradewind-series airship, much smaller than its giant siblings yet much more nimble. With four vector thruster engines, the craft could travel for thousands of kilometres with many passengers, but then land in almost any open space - from stadia to fields, highways, and most airports. The dignitaries sat looking out at the view, a mix of diplomats and company envoys, looking for vessels and aircraft that caught their eyes. Potential contracts, or points of design to consider.

And beneath, the three support ekranoplans cruised through the water in a triangle formation, arrays of powerful turbofans pulling them through the water for now. Within, the support equipment needed for the airships sat hidden for now.

The coast was close now, maybe a couple hundred metres away. From here, it was easy to see the craft moving by, men walking out on deck to wave at those lined on the shores, as they moved onwards towards the international airport, where the aircraft and their crews would be set down.

by **Layarteb** » Sat May 07, 2011 5:11 pm

OOC: Megapost to cover so many days but it's alright we can still RP the individual events and what not. I thoroughly enjoy seeing the entrances, good stuff folks.

Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 12:00 hrs [UTC-5]
Pier 86, Manhattan Island, Layarteb City
(Opening Ceremonies)

The crowds gathered in the thousands. Traffic on the West Side Highway had been diverted off the highway at West 59th Street and routed all the way down West 30th Street by way of 11th Avenue. Though congestion warnings were issued, not everyone heeded them and traffic was atrocious to say the least. Anyone with a manual transmission, which was a good number of people, soon found that their decision to drive into Manhattan that morning and afternoon was a bad one. Blocking off these twenty-nine blocks kept virtually the entire main section of Fleet Week free from cars. Street vendors filled the highway and thousands upon thousands of Layartebians from near and afar and tourists filled the area looking for a good time.

Around Pier 86, where the Washington was docked, the ratio of sailors to civilians was ten to one, if not higher. Fresh off their respective vessels, they crowded around an elevated stage with the mayor of Layarteb City stood along with several invited guests, including a high ranking admiral in the Imperial Layartebian Navy. She came to the microphone and quieted the crowd with her hands. Beaming with a bright smile, she began to speak, "Ladies and gentlemen, wonderful sailors of the Empire and abroad, welcome to Layarteb City." The crowd, mostly Layartebian at this point, let out a hearty cheer that could be heard even on the east side. "This is the twenty-fourth annual Fleet Week at Layarteb City and what a great day it is for a good time! Mother Nature sure does bless us and the Empire blesses all of you." The mayor of Layarteb City was a rare duck, so to speak.

Inside of the Empire, the Layartebian Pagan Rite was the dominant religion with 51.25% but right behind it at 30.29% was Roman Catholicism. Of course, most of the pagans were in the provinces of Layarteb and Dnalkrad whereas most of the Catholics were in Ynoga, Raef, and Worros. As such, it was customary for Layartebian politicians and government officials to keep their religious beliefs both quiet and out of public light. They all followed the example of the Emperor himself. The mayor of Layarteb City, Angela Ridgeway, was the opposite. She had said many times before that she belonged to the Layartebian Pagan Rite and while she never went to services or worshipped actively, she did aspire to much of its belief system. Mother Nature was strongly a part of it.

"We gather here today not just to pay homage to the sailors of the fine, Imperial Layartebian Navy but to honor our fourteen foreign guests who have brought aircraft and ships alike and who are here to celebrate with us. They are here to display their fine equipment and mingle with us Layartebians and for that I ask for a big round of applause." Many foreign dignitaries had been invited to stand on stage and the applause was all for them, something of a Layartebian tradition, so to speak. "So thank you for coming, thank you for giving honor and respect to our fighting men and women," though it was something to note that no women served in the Imperial Layartebian Military save for the Ministry of Defense. "So why not start of Fleet Week with a bang and let's enjoy ourselves!" With that, four cannons positioned on the rear of the Washington were fired within a few seconds of one another. Though they fired blanks, the roar was deafening and it echoed off the tall buildings and crowded streets of Layarteb City. As they reloaded for another salvo, of which there would be three in total, a trio of fighters, F-58A Vipers, roared southward over the Hudson River, all three of them trailing colored smoke.

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Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 17:30 hrs [UTC-5]
Liberty Island, Upper Layarteb Bay, Layarteb City
(Welcoming Ceremonies for International Dignitaries)

It was a cool and breezy evening. The sky was getting darker but the temperature hovered right at 63°F. Humidity was barely 25% and a beautiful, summer-like, west-northwest breeze of ten miles per hour swept over Liberty Island. The skies were clear and though the wind gusted up to twenty-three miles per hour on occasion, it certainly wouldn't ruin this auspicious occasion, which was the welcoming ceremony for international dignitaries. The event was short, a mere hour and a half but it allowed the Layartebian Minister of Foreign Affairs a chance to meet all of those invited dignitaries. It was basically a cocktail hour with hors d'oeuvres and plenty of fine, expensive alcohol or, for those who did not drink, an array of non-alcoholic beverages ranging from water, milk, and juice to soda and seltzer. The Minister intermingled and made it a point not only to greet each and every dignitary but also to make sure that he was not rude to any of them. He did not simply greet and run but rather engaged them in polite small talk. This wasn't the place for business but, as such, that wouldn't be the topic of conversation for this magnificent event.

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Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 21:30 hrs [UTC-5]
Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, Manhattan Island, Layarteb City
(Celebration Ball)

Security was practically impenetrable around 301 Park Avenue. There, the Waldorf-Astoria, the city's oldest, most famous, and most luxurious hotel, was playing host to the Celebration Ball. Held at the first Fleet Week and every week since, it was the defining event for Fleet Week and really its true kickoff indicator. The event was booked for the Grand Ballroom on the third floor, a two-tiered, four-story room that could fit up to fifteen hundred guests for dinner and eleven hundred with the dance floor. Because this was a who's who event and all foreign dignitaries received instant invitations for them and a guest, security practically outnumbered guests. Within the ballroom itself were a mere seven hundred invitees, the Emperor and his own guest being one of them. Dinner was prepared by executive chefs, some of the best in the entire Empire, and the service was second to none.

The dress code for the event was formal and the emphasis was put on the formal. Business suits were simply not accepted and that was something that had been included with the invitation. Class A military uniforms would be seen and so would some of the finest, ceremonial garbs of the world. For women, it was gowns and other formal wear. For dinner there was a seafood choice, a meat choice, a chicken choice, a pasta choice, and of course a truly vegetarian choice. There were plenty of appetizers and hors d'oeuvres. There were six open bars and virtually no limit for the alcohol, which flowed in the form of beer and wine to champagne and fine scotch. The Emperor himself drank from a specific bottle he brought for himself. It was only for him and whomever he wanted to share it with and it was one hundred years old. The event started at 21:30 but guests arrived at 21:00 hours, the Emperor himself arriving at 21:20, to be precise, along with his security staff, Force Falcon Team One. They mingled with the crowds, appearing more like guests rather than security personnel.

Timing was crucial and though entry wasn't barred after 21:30 hours as seating was assigned, it was frowned upon due to Layartebian customs. Until 22:30 hours, it was a cocktail hour and then it was some dancing before dinner was served at 23:00 hours, late even by Layartebian standards. After dinner, it was more dancing, more cajoling, business and what not until 04:00 hours, when the festivities ended. For the rich and famous and socialites of the Empire who were deemed respectable enough to merit an invitation, there were after parties that ran past dawn. For many others it was bed time. There were even fireworks at 22:30 hours, which were something the Empire, Layarteb City especially, did very well. They lit up the sky over Layarteb City for fifteen minutes and pounded the windows of the mighty, unsettling giant.

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Friday, May 6, 2011 - 12:00 hrs [UTC-5]
Pier 40 Play Park, Manhattan Island, Layarteb City
(Officers & Family Luncheon with the Emperor)

Exhibits opened at 09:00 hours, right on time and right on schedule. Some, like the Macha, the Norfolk, and the Washington were still closed though. They wouldn't be open to the public until the day after their debut, which would be Saturday for the Macha and Sunday for both the Norfolk and Washington. Around 11:00 hours, the air show at Layarteb City Air Force Base kicked off with the national anthem and some excellent parachute aerobatics, which included an airborne unfurling of the Empire's flag. Demos and aerobatic stunts were going to be performed all afternoon long and there would even be a mock dogfight between a Fokker Dr. I triplane and a SPAD S.XIII over the airfield. It would be a fun time for all and it was a free event, like every other air show in the Empire. Vendors sold food and memorabilia and static displays were excellent props for photographs.

However, at Pier 40, the atmosphere was much calmer and quieter. Pier 40 was a play park, more or less, that featured two soccer fields, which were sometimes converted to little league baseball fields, a skateboard park, and a two full, basketball courts. Now it was playing host to the Emperor's favorite event during Fleet Week. That event was a luncheon he held every year with select officers and their families. During the two hour event, he greeted each and every officer and their family, spoke a few words to them, careful to never repeat the same conversation or sound robotic. At the end, he would decorate a select few officers with the highest award of the Empire, should there be any to give, as he was the only person legally able to bestow the Empire's highest honor, the Order of Layarteb. This year he had two to bestow, one of them posthumously. The first was to an enlisted sergeant from the Imperial Layartebian Marine Corps who fought bravely during the Adanese War and who virtually saved his entire battalion through his leadership and heroism after the commanding officer of his platoon was killed. The posthumous award would be bestowed to the widowed wife of a tank commander whose bravery and gallantry in the face of overwhelming odds saved the lives of a rescue squad who were extracting the crew of a helicopter that had been brought down. Unfortunately, Goodrule forces destroyed his tank but not until after the rescue was success. Due to his bravery, the lives of all four helicopter crewmen and the rescuers were saved. The other three men in the tank received the Layartebian Medal of Honor for their bravery.

It was a misnomer, per say, to call it an officer's luncheon as enlisted men were invited. Basically, invited to the luncheon were any recipient of the Order of Layarteb and their family, the relatives of any posthumous award winner, of which there were many, and various other officers who had exceptional service records. To date, the Emperor had given out just eighty-two Order of Layarteb's and sixty-one of those were posthumous. This year would be the first year in nine that he was giving one to a living soldier. After the luncheon, the Emperor would address the nation and give his yearly address, something the entire world looked forward to each year.

OOC: So I'll stop there for now on what I'm posting, let ya'll respond, and then in my next post address the responses accordingly, should I have to, and then get on with it with the Emperor's speech.

by **Spirit of Hope** » Sat May 07, 2011 8:55 pm

May 5, 2011 21:30
First Admiral Janet Daley smiled as she passed through security, it was good which meant no uninvited guests. She and her family passed through security with no problem, all but one of her body guards split off, they wood spend the night discreetly out of sight.

The First Admiral looked over her family, all were dressed for the occasion. Janet was sure her children would find some way to enjoy the evening. As for herself and her husband, they would circulate join in small talk with the other dignitaries.

by **Elmstrapha** » Sun May 08, 2011 2:44 am

May 5, 2011 21:30

first Lord of the Fleet Lord Henry Jackson smiled. He new that this would be a good occasion to meet his fellow officers and the international officers too. He also new that it would be a rare chance to be with his family and stop it fragmenting.

his bodyguards had been told to leave once the were in the building and his favorite spotted his commander in chief, Hurra Alexander, his wife and the crown prince.

by **Lowell Leber** » Mon May 09, 2011 9:06 am

Liberty Island
May 5 17:35

Admiral William Fitch, along with his wife Sarah and his attache Lt. Commander Sean Lee, made his way among the various foreign officers and dignataries in the room. With each individual he made casual small talk, and with a few fellow naval men he swapped stories. Admiral Fitch was seasoned warrior of the sea, but also a classy and respectful gentleman. He was enjoying himself, but was focused on finding the Chief of the Layerteb's Navy for conversation...

by **Newtdom** » Mon May 09, 2011 3:17 pm

Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 12:34 hrs
Lower Bay, Layarteb City

A lone boatswain whistle carried through the air as the five tenders carrying the Crown Prince, his entourage and retinue, and the diplomatic team pulled away from the NRS Imperium. The behemoth churned the sea as she turned to the northeast. She would begin making her way on planned route along the coast of Layarteb City and the surrounding areas. Unable to fit under the Verrazanno Bridge, nor able to maneuver within the confines of Upper Bay, she would complete the route by the end of the night so the crowds could see the 100,000 long ton vessel. Once complete she would moor in Gravesend Bay.

Four massive turrets, two fore and two aft, glistened in the sun. Three massive 16in rifled naval guns per turret were able to fire the Cornelius 2, a laser guided high explosive projectile with flight correcting ability by remote control. An additional fourteen 5in guns acted in support. All of these things are fine and dandy, but what truly makes the Imperium Class viable were the Tomahawk and Harpoon launching pods. Tours would be allowed, but only for dignitaries. All non-essential areas would be available for tour, including the bridge. But the Emperor was hoping, weather permitting, sea trials for any dignitary.

The tenders made their way under the Verrazanno Bridge heading towards the Layarteb City Yacht Club to disembark. The Prince assumed he had reciprocity as a member of the Imperial Yacht Club. He wanted to avoid the crowds and prepare for the evening's events. After schmoozing with some of the Layarteb elite, he entered an awaiting motorcade sent in days before from Winchester to take him to the Waldorf-Astoria.

Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 17:30 hrs [UTC-5]
Liberty Island, Upper Layarteb Bay, Layarteb City
(Welcoming Ceremonies for International Dignitaries)

The Prince still wore his naval uniform, a royal blue stand-collar tunic, trimmed in silver, broken apart by the glistening of his various medals, commendations, and investitures. White trousers. A royal blue sea cloak was held together by a gold lashing. His ivory and gold handled saber rested by his side. He carried his white, red, and gold plumed cocked hat under his arm. The white plume indicating his rank, the red the honor afforded by a naval victory, the gold proclaiming a member of the Royal Household. And blue suede loafers, technically out of uniform but who would dare confront the Prince.

He was followed closely by two equally impressive dressed officers, Commandant Baron von Palma from the Imperial Marines, and Fleet Admiral Lord Clancey of the Royal Navy. A third man, wearing an understated Brioni suit, was the Lord of the Foreign Ministry, Lawrence Duke Hollistein.

The four men made their way to the bar. Each asked for a Macallan 30 year neat. They then turned to the party to begin making their rounds.

The majority of the mission would remain at the hotel or seek out what was available to them in Layarteb City. The night was theirs.

Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 21:27 hrs [UTC-5]
Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, Manhattan Island, Layarteb City
(Celebration Ball)

Hollistein, Clancey and von Palma all brought their wives. The Prince, an eligible bachelor, came stag. All the men were dressed in white tie and the women wore gowns of their choosing. The Prince carried with him a parcel for the Layarteb Emperor, a small token of his appreciation for the warm welcome he and his party have enjoyed.

The gift was a Macallan 64 year special edition. A fine spirit for a fine affair.

He made his way towards the Emperor.

by **Layarteb** » Mon May 09, 2011 5:08 pm

Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 17:30 hrs [UTC-5]
Liberty Island, Upper Layarteb Bay, Layarteb City
(Welcoming Ceremonies for International Dignitaries)

The Admiral of the Imperial Layartebian Navy or rather just the Admiral of the Navy, for short, was dressed in his ceremonial uniform. Ribbons and medals hung from his chest and his hair had since grayed. In the military now for over twenty-five years, he was set to retire soon. He had joined the navy just after the Conquests began and had been fighter pilot for his entire career until he reached the rank of rear admiral. From that point on, he never flew a fighter again and closed the book on his exemplary flight record. He was an ace with eight kills, all of them obtained while he flew the F-14 Tomcat. He had switched to the Hornet after the Tomcat and earned not only a Distinguished Flying Cross during a SEAD mission but also a Navy Cross for saving the lives of downed airman. To most, the medals and ribbons on his chest were a dream to aspire to but for him they were all stories of a long and strenuous career that cost his two wives, one to divorce and another to separation.

Weathered but still the prominent tactician and brilliant mind that he had always been, the Admiral of the Navy walked amongst the guests, his medals shining against the setting sun. From his chest hung three Navy Crosses, a Defense Distinguished Service Medal, two Navy Distinguished Service Medals, two Silver Stars, a Legion of Merit, one Distinguished Flying Cross, seven Airman's Medals, two Bronze Stars, a Meritorious Service Medal, fourteen Air Medals, a Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal, a Joint Service Achievement Medal, a pair of Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and a combat action ribbon. He had a Good Conduct Medal, a Navy "E" Ribbon, and all sorts of other ribbons. He was rated as a Command Pilot and, of course, wore the six-star rank of Admiral of the Navy. He had just finished speaking to the Cottish delegation when Admiral William Fitch of Lowell Leber approached him. "Admiral," he greeted his foreign counterpart, holding out his right hand to shake the Admiral's hand.

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Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 21:35 hrs [UTC-5]
Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, Manhattan Island, Layarteb City
(Celebration Ball)

The Emperor was only just beginning to make his way around the room. There were hundreds of people to greet and he would greet each and every one of them, by the end of the night, unless of course they purposely avoided him or ducked out early. Of course, the Cottish were always his first stop and why wouldn't they be, the Cottish were some of the oldest allies of the Empire and traditionally, the most favored of all past and present. He promised to come back to the Cottish later on in the evening and, as tradition, business was always discussed between the two great nations at some point in the evening. When the Emperor got around to the Crown Prince of Newtdom, he was pleased to meet the royal heir to the throne. To make matters even more delightful, the Crown Prince had brought the Emperor a gift, sixty-four year old scotch made by Macallan, an excellent choice. Thanking the Crown Prince, he promised not only that he would open the bottle during Fleet Week but also that he would invite the Crown Prince for a drink, should he so desire. It was part of Layartebian custom to offer the bearer of a bottle of alcohol the first glass, should they want. If they didn't it was fair game for who the gift was intended.

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Friday, May 6, 2011 - 14:00 hrs [UTC-5]
Pier 40 Play Park, Manhattan Island, Layarteb City
(Officers & Family Luncheon with the Emperor)

"Distinguished himself by actions above and beyond the call of duty on August 9, 2010, while serving as a senior sergeant in the Imperial Layartebian Marine Corps in Adana, Turkey. Master Sergeant Donald Sanchez assumed command of his platoon after his platoon captain was killed by hostile fire in Adana City. Surrounded by hundreds of Sepah-e Pasdaran terrorists and elite, Adanese soldiers, Master Sergeant Sanchez selflessly charged one machine gun nest by himself in order to free up his pinned down platoon. On the front lines providing security for the entire battalion, Master Sergeant Sanchez's platoon was the only element standing between overwhelming numbers of enemy forces and an entire Marine battalion, which was pinned down due to continuous and accurate sniper and machine gun fire from elevated and dug-in positions.

"Master Sergeant Sanchez took command of his platoon and motivated his men to proceed in and out of three structures packed with hostile forces, booby traps, and ammunition. Sweeping through each of the three structures, Master Sergeant Sanchez eliminated eight sniper perches and four machine gun positions. During the course of the engagement, his rifle was disabled from a ricochet bullet leaving him with only his sidearm.

"Bravely, Master Sergeant Sanchez cleared the way for his platoon as they swept through the three buildings and relieved his battalion of hostile fire. Master Sergeant Sanchez's leadership directly saved the lives of over four hundred Marines. Under his leadership, none of his men were injured or killed by hostile fire and though they braved walls of bullets, they came out victorious, ultimately capturing a radio relay center in use by Sepah-e Pasdaran terrorists.

"Thus due to his bravery and selfless actions in the face of tremendous odds and full combat, where his heroism was second to none, Master Sergeant Donald Sanchez is hereby awarded the Order of Layarteb, the highest military honor the Empire can bestow upon any individual." To a massive round of applause, the Emperor concluded reading the citation and allowed Master Sergeant Sanchez a moment in the spotlight. Only minutes earlier, he read the citation for First Lieutenant Victor Scheck, the other recipient of the Order of Layarteb. Next, he walked up to Master Sergeant Sanchez and placed the gleaming, engraved medal upon Master Sergeant Sanchez's neck and stepped back with military precision. He rendered a salute to the young Master Sergeant and received one in return. Tears were in the Master Sergeant's eyes and the Emperor quickly held out his hand and embraced the young warrior. Though it wasn't caught on camera, the Emperor did whisper some wise words into his ear, "The scars of battle may fade from the skin but they always impress upon the mind. Live true and good young warrior, your service was just." It was an old proverb he had heard during a philosophical discussion during his time in Venezuela as a major with the Delta Force.

The ceremonies were concluded and the Emperor walked up to the podium once again. He was about to address not only the nation but also the world. It was customary every Fleet Week for him to give a speech and he always took care to prepare it, as he did all his speeches. He was a man that never used Teleprompters. He never used note cards and he never used ear pieces. Each and every speech he gave he did so from memory and he wrote all of his own. It was a trait that few leaders had and one that distinguished him from all the others as well as garnered him support amongst his people.

"Ladies and gentlemen of the Empire, of the world," he began, as he always did. "I come to you today from the twenty-fourth annual Fleet Week in Layarteb City.

"In years past I came to you and spoke of realization, of peace, of honor, and of duty. I spoke of times when the world hurt and when the world sang yet today, I speak of an ever growing sentiment in the world.

"It is a topic few want to discuss and which leaders ignore, hoping it will simply resolve itself. That topic is terrorism.

"We in the Empire know it all too well. Terrorist groups have attacked the Empire since before it was the Empire. In the days of the Republic, it was the Red Army Faction, among other groups. In our infancy, it was loyalists to the corrupt and feeble Republic. As we grew through our teenage years, the threat came from drug cartels and criminal empires we unseated through force. Then, as we passed into our young adulthood, it was the Sepah-e Pasdaran and their cohorts.

"They detonated a nuclear device on the island of Grenada and killed nearly forty thousand people. They attacked our embassies and military checkpoints. They kidnapped our people and slaughtered them like animals, parading them like trophies in front of us." The Emperor paused for effect.

"BUT NO MORE!" His voice boomed. "The Sepah-e Pasdaran are defunct. We have defeated our biggest enemy after they escaped our clutches a second time. They will not a third time. However, though there is an element of rejoicing to be had in their defeat, the Sepah-e Pasdaran left a model in their wake. They have given the justification and the rise to new groups, groups that will try to recreate their success but will only fail.

"Amongst us and amongst the leaders of the world are forces which cannot be reasoned with and which will never accept logic or civility. These are those forces and we must not reason to negotiate with them. We cannot justify passivity nor can we accept that they will leave us be if we leave them be. That is not the case. Weakness is a drug to them and weakness promotes their ideologies and their recruitment. Weakness is what keeps them from utter defeat and it is weakness that the Empire shall never show!

"We have risen to the occasion before and addressed threat with threat. Now we will look upon new and emerging groups and threats not as harmless and irritating children but rather as eager, blood hungry, rabid raccoons, which we will exterminate. They can sift through the trash cans of the world but we will find them.

"We will find them in every hole, in every nook, in every cranny, in every dumpster, in every sewer of the world. We will not coax them out to bathe and clean up their act. We will we see them for what they truly are and rehabilitation is but a sheer waste upon these ingrates. They are putridity upon moral, civilized, free nations of the world and that is why we will exterminate them. When we find them, we will not wait for the light of day or the dead of night. We will not get the smoke canister. We will attack right then! Right there!" Had this been a rally the crowd would have been cheering with deafening applause and while they might have been at home or in bars, they were not here, as it was actually not encouraged for this locale. "Ladies and gentlemen of the Empire and of the world, let this be a declaration against the fatwa's and like declarations upon us! The Empire is here to stay and our culture will never bow to yours. We will never water ourselves down to fit your nonsensical beliefs. We will never falter and we will never sway. We will stand strong and tall and we will steamroll anyone who gets in our way!" Now came the applause and to a crowd of military men and their families, it couldn't have been any more well deserved. The Emperor had said it to the world; terrorists were done!

OOC: Macha, Norfolk, and Washington class debuts will be next, that speech was a big thing to write and it sounds pretty awesome.

by **HomeLand Safety** » Tue May 10, 2011 6:07 am

The Homeland Safety Submarine Elite Eagle breaks the surface of the water, it appears on the other ships radar. 1st Class Captain Sergei Romanov, over the radio " Hello my fellow ship commanders this is the newest in Homeland Safety's Major Naval Works, it is a base of the Russian Typhoon but incorporates many new HNW (Homeland Naval Works) technology's". Sergei continues "This Submarine is the pilot of the new Exxon Class Submarine, it will show its killing power later in the day, this submarine is undetectable by sonar, it has fore and aft torpedo tubes, and the ability to launch Gladiator Class Ballistic Missiles". Sergei comes out of the tower of the submarine, while others look at him with binoculars, his face shows a scar that runs from his left eye all the way down to his cheek, a reminder of the Task Force Copperhead whose loses amounted to the tens of thousands during the battles in the Midwest helping civilians escape from the coming armies during the enemies invasion of the USA. Sergei waves to the other naval commanders and then behind him 2 more Exxon Class Submarines Surface.

Almost 2 Hours Later another battle group of ships appear showing 2 aircraft carriers and 3 Heavy Destroyers and 1 Super Battle Ship.

by **Layarteb** » Tue May 10, 2011 6:27 am

Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 10:00 hrs [UTC-5]
Layarteb City Harbor, Layarteb City
(Parade of Ships)

The arrival of the Homeland Safety group had not entirely been a surprise to the Empire but as they were unregistered, their entrance into Layartebian territorial and contiguous waters was a big no-no. Maritime surveillance had spotted the surface ships miles upon miles out and waited, watched, and sprung to action as they neared Layartebian waters. Contiguous waters extended out thirty-six nautical miles from the coast and military traffic was restricted without prior permission. Foreign Merchant traffic was only restricted out to twenty-four nautical miles, the extent of Layartebian territorial waters. Routinely patrolled by anti-submarine and anti-surface elements such as the MQ-21A Mariner and P-8A Poseidon, Layartebian territorial and contiguous waters were always under the watchful eye of the Imperial Layartebian Defense Forces. They were also protected also by an underwater SOSUS network of hydrophones that listened intently for undersea intruders.

As such, the Exxon class submarine, which was essentially a Typhoon class submarine was of little trouble for them. The Typhoon had always been easy a favorite target for the ILDF's maritime patrol section. Propelled by two small propellers, they weren't the quietest submarines out there. Having to make more revolutions to achieve the same speed as a single-propeller vessel, they were among the Empire's primary targets. Anything classified as a ballistic missile submarine was a major threat to the Empire and every major threat was dealt with immediately. Dispatched to the location, the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol craft, which carried torpedoes internally began to release sonobuoys designed to ping the submarines with active sonar. That information would be sent back to the aircraft, which would then program a firing solution into their torpedoes to engage. All the while, the MQ-21A Mariner on patrol kept close tabs on the Homeland Safety surface group, which was meagerly defended by only three escorts. Fueled and loaded with deadly, long-range, anti-ship missiles were B-6B Dementors based in New York Maine, and Pennsylvania. They would get into the air immediately and assume a patrol within Layartebian airspace. If the enemy group proceeded into Layartebian waters and showed hostile intent, they were going to be blown out of the water and their survivors rescued for interrogation and, if they were lucky, repatriation.

However, it being Fleet Week, mix-ups were always possible and though the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had made it explicitly and abundantly clear that pre-registration was required for participation in Fleet Week, even the Ministry knew that not every nation was keen or smart enough to follow instructions. There were also newcomers to the international stage of affairs who weren't versed in diplomatic courtesy and barged into situations carelessly. With that in mind, immediate, flash, radio traffic was sent to the Homeland Safety surface group with a message that could not be misconstrued whatsoever.

"Surface group. Surface group. You are entered restricted waters of the Empire of Layarteb. Come to full stop or avert your course immediately. Defenses have been alerted and your group is within range of Layartebian weaponry. Command all surface and submerged elements to change course immediately, you are on a direct course with Layartebian restricted waters. Your group has no prior authorization and should it continue into Layartebian waters it will be dealt with in accordance to the 'Doctrine of Sovereignty' and boarded or sunk. A reply is required to show non-hostile intent." Now, the Empire waited for the response.

by **HomeLand Safety** » Tue May 10, 2011 8:03 am

Sergei realizing he made a huge mistake not warning the forces of there arrival quickly drew his white flag to show he meant no harm and was then quick to state that over the radio.

by **HomeLand Safety** » Tue May 10, 2011 8:35 am

Sergei Calls over the radio "Wow I did not mean to come unannounced my fellow comrades my President told me that he got of the RSVP to the fleet meeting, I will pull out of the harbor and wait until Accepted I did not mean any harm to any fellow nations." Sergei turns around and waves his hand in a circle about his head and the fleet begins to turn around and head out of the harbor. The 3 submarines slowly descend into the deep, Sergei was glad that this did not explode into an international incident because one of the 3 submarines was armed with Gladiator Class Ballistic Missiles. Sergei calls over his radio to T9743 to Lieutenant Gorbets and calls fro him to return to the homeland naval base at Fort McAllister to offload the missiles. As he does not want to start an international crisis.

by **Cotland** » Wed May 11, 2011 10:32 am

Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 17:30 hrs [UTC-5]
Liberty Island, Upper Layarteb Bay, Layarteb City
(Welcoming Ceremonies for International Dignitaries)

As always, the higher echelons of the Cottish visiting units were present at the welcoming ceremonies. In this year's case, that meant Viseadmiral Oddbjørn Viksund, Admiral Commanding the Stridsflåten (Battle Fleet) (which included the bulk of the Cottish high seas units), dressed in his finest Mess Dress, complete with the ceremonial sabre in the belt. Viseadmiral Viksund had just enjoyed a conversation with the Layartebian Emperor, discussing briefly the upcoming events and the Emperor's desire to observe the upcoming Cottish amphibious assault demonstration from HMS Rogaland, to which Viksund had been more than happy to allow. After the Emperor moved on to mingle with the other guests, Viksund nodded to his accompanying entourage (two Rear Admirals [Rear Admiral Commanding 4. Amphibious Strike Group, Rear Admiral Commanding Atlantic Amphibious Forces, respectively], five Navy Captains and three Commanders [Commanding Officers of the four Cottish ships, and the Admirals' Aide de Camps], and a few civilians representing the Cottish maritime warfare industries [present hoping to score some foreign military sales]), who started mingling with the foreigners, while nipping to their respective glasses. There were times for wild partying and bringe drinking (later on, in the Officer's Mess aboard Mårhund, the designated party boat this evening [the Cottish ships took turns arranging the parties]), and there were times for polite nipping and conversations. This event, boring as it might be, fell into the latter category.

Layarteb City

In downtown Manhattan, one might think that the areas around Times Square were under Cottish military occupation, given the amount of Cottish uniforms that mingled around the place. Sailors and Royal Marines dressed in their parade uniforms crowded the place, moving in small and larger groups in the search for somewhere to spend more than they could frankly afford, shake some tail, and hopefully find a "special someone" so they didn't have to spend the night in their own racks.

Many sailors had flocked to Times Square, it being a tourist magnet, but some better informed sailors had journeyed across the Brooklyn Bridge down to Little Oslo, the Cottish-dominated neighborhood over 70% ethnic Cots residing there, gambling on showing up in the uniform of the Father Country would be a hit with the local young womenfolk. In very many of the cases, it would be. A strange thing about being expatriated is that one often develops a very strong sense of one's own national identity, and come to love everything about the home country more than one would if one had remained there. Little Oslo was no exception, and those sailors who went there were guaranteed to get free drinks in the bars, loads of positive attention, and plenty of interest from the other sex. For some strange reason, there tended to be an increase in pregnancies and child births approximately nine months after each Fleet Week in Layarteb City. At least part of the blame could be firmly placed on the shoulders of the Royal Cottish Navy.

Yes, Fleet Week was truly underway.

by **HomeLand Safety** » Thu May 12, 2011 6:21 am

O841 Hours
Fort Constantine, Homeland Safety
Presidential Office

.....Two of Homeland Safeties elite Honor Guard stand by the Presidents Office and listen in on ensuing argument that takes place between Captain Sergei Romanov and President Shepard.

"THIS IS COMPLETE BULLSHIT" yells Sergei so loud that it seems to shake the doors of the presidential office. "Sergei I am asking you to calm down, Homeland Safeties Council of Commanders decided that you are a loose cannon and need to take a break. Go on vacation, the fact of the matter is that it was our fault that you went into Layertab's Port without us filling out the right forms." Replies Shepard coolly. "Why the hell should I take a break for the god damned Congress's Mistake!!!!" Screams Sergei."Because I am asking you to, I applaud you for not arguing with the other nations but what happened could have been a major international incident and Layertab has always been a major ally of Homeland Safety" says Shepard as he sips from his scotch on the rocks." I have been talking to the Council over your recent performances, you seem to be hesitant about the recent of actions you have been taking. Is this because of what happened to Battle Group Copperhead?" asks Shepard questioningly. Sergei stares at Shepard for about a minute and a half and then asks "Are we done here, Sir?". "Why yes we are Sergei, but go on vacation, and see the presidential therapist if need be. Alright?" Shepard asks. "Sure." whispers Sergei under his breath.

1100 Hours
Homeland Safeties North Bering Sea
Command Tower

...Fleet Commander Gregory Hoffman is standing on the bridge of the Flagship "Death Before Dishonor" and he looks down onto the deck of his ship where vehicles are being prepped and airplanes are being lowered below deck. While standing and looking out a comms officer runs up to his side "Fleet Commander Sir, we have come into radio contact with out escorts. They are moving into position alongside the ship and will escort us to Layertab" says the comms officer. "Excellent work son, you are dismissed" and with that statement the comms officer runs back down to his post. "The world will soon know the newest in aircraft carrier technology" states Commander Gregory as he looks over the many monitors and screens that flash in the command tower....

by **Lowell Leber** » Thu May 12, 2011 7:30 am

Thursday, May 5, 2011 - 17:30 hrs [UTC-5]
Liberty Island, Upper Layarteb Bay, Layarteb City
(Welcoming Ceremonies for International Dignitaries)

The Admiral of the Imperial Layartebian Navy or rather just the Admiral of the Navy, for short, was dressed in his ceremonial uniform. Ribbons and medals hung from his chest and his hair had since grayed. In the military now for over twenty-five years, he was set to retire soon. He had joined the navy just after the Conquests began and had been fighter pilot for his entire career until he reached the rank of rear admiral. From that point on, he never flew a fighter again and closed the book on his exemplary flight record. He was an ace with eight kills, all of them obtained while he flew the F-14 Tomcat. He had switched to the Hornet after the Tomcat and earned not only a Distinguished Flying Cross during a SEAD mission but also a Navy Cross for saving the lives of downed airman. To most, the medals and ribbons on his chest were a dream to aspire to but for him they were all stories of a long and strenuous career that cost his two wives, one to divorce and another to separation.

Weathered but still the prominent tactician and brilliant mind that he had always been, the Admiral of the Navy walked amongst the guests, his medals shining against the setting sun. From his chest hung three Navy Crosses, a Defense Distinguished Service Medal, two Navy Distinguished Service Medals, two Silver Stars, a Legion of Merit, one Distinguished Flying Cross, seven Airman's Medals, two Bronze Stars, a Meritorious Service Medal, fourteen Air Medals, a Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal, a Joint Service Achievement Medal, a pair of Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and a combat action ribbon. He had a Good Conduct Medal, a Navy "E" Ribbon, and all sorts of other ribbons. He was rated as a Command Pilot and, of course, wore the six-star rank of Admiral of the Navy. He had just finished speaking to the Cottish delegation when Admiral William Fitch of Lowell Leber approached him. "Admiral," he greeted his foreign counterpart, holding out his right hand to shake the Admiral's hand.

"I have been looking forward to meeting you Admiral of the Navy," Admiral Fitch replied while accepting the handshake. "I must say so far Fleet Week has been an impressive spectacle. I have been quite surprised at the turn out you all have had this year. And while not surprised, I must say the hospitality has been great. I know you have many more persons to speak with tonight, but perhaps later during the week we can talk some business, if you will?"

Fleet Week 2011 at Layarteb City (IC Thread)

Fleet Week 2011 at Layarteb City (IC Thread)

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