Humanitarian Aid Requested (MT ONLY)

[Helladria]

Meino Montene reached out and shook Augrim's hand. "Thank you for your assistance, Commander Augrim. Be assured that we will try to keep you abreast of our activities. We'll set up a mirror checkpoint here across from yous, and we'll move to fill in the agreed upon area. We'll also begin receiving supply convoys within the week, so be aware that you don't mistake our ships for Admiral Rand's. May the impending conference bring the peace I'm sure we all desire." She then walked over to one of the accompanying Wolf armored transport vehicles being used as a command center. "I want you to get in contact with the council that administers Sterry's utilities infrastructure. Tell them we need instructions on how to restore the electricity, water, and sewage treatment for this city." When she was done giving her commands, she returned back to her jeep and drove north toward the highway leading out of Sterry, leaving some of her staff at Augrim's checkpoint.

[Helladria]

General Unwerth returned the salute, and headed back through the slashing rain to his command vehicle. “Alright, let’s fall back to the checkpoint.” Unwerth barked at the signals officer inside.

He frowned, sitting in his chair inside, and glanced at his ADC. “Did you notice most of them were women? Isn’t that kind of strange?”

“No idea, Sir. I was contacting Major Fromm about getting you a casualty list for today…”


As Ferde’s unit moved down the road they passed by over two blocks where lay, hundreds of them. Some of them looked barely held together, like horrible broken dolls whose threads were sinews. Some of them were missing pieces—parts of heads, torsos, limbs. Rain fell upon them but they did not blink or flinch. Here and there a wailing woman was pulled away on stumbling legs by weeping family; here and there a man knelt, cradling a ruined head, kissing a pallid cheek, rocking. There a child was tugged away from the unresponsive breast of a woman whose lower body was covered by a sodden blanket…that lay flush with the ground. Civilians in patched and worn overcoats, jackets and other clothing moved along, looking at signs, trying to identify as best they could. They wore kerchiefs or pieces of torn cloth over their faces. Soldiers with gas masks moved like insect-people, carrying corpses to trucks or from trucks. Behind them worked bulldozers, burying their shining blades in the earth and pushing, diesel fumes mixing with the steam from the rain on hot engines.

Past the graves being prepared, They were at the outskirts of the city, overgrown grass rising around rubble. In towards the city itself there was a large bus station that gaped with holes. To the other side of the road was open fields—farmland—that seemed to be fallow and abandoned. A number of shell craters, full of water, lay here and there.

Ahead of them lay a barricade. A heap of old ruined tires around the top of it, and across the road junk—old furniture, cinderblocks, milk crates, lumber—about fifteen feet high and at least as thick. A group of people swarmed around it, but hearing the vehicles approaching they fled like cockroaches from a kitchen light, though one paused long enough to hurl something at the top of the barricade. A low blue flame whooshed along the top and began to pour oily black smoke that lay low in the rain…

As general Ferde drove by the soldiers in the field, he spied the masks. "Gas masks. Damn." He couldn't believe these soldiers were using such inefficient, yet deadly weapons so close to the city. He hoped that his soldiers wouldn't have to deal with gas, but he would definitely need to contact the Monarchists about this, and discuss the... complications if his unit were caught in a gas attack.

When they encountered the welcoming committee at the barricade, he found himself asking, "Don't these people know how to identify neutrals?" The number of refugees belied the obvious answer to his question. "Well, here's the fun part," he thought. He spoke into a microphone that projected his voice from speakers mounted on top of his truck. "We represent the peacekeeping mission from the Federated Empire of Helladria. We do not wish to engage you militarily. We are here at the authorization of both the Monarchist faction and the Free Congress. Is there a representative we may speak with?"

[New Edom]

Meino Montene reached out and shook Augrim's hand. "Thank you for your assistance, Commander Augrim. Be assured that we will try to keep you abreast of our activities. We'll set up a mirror checkpoint here across from yous, and we'll move to fill in the agreed upon area. We'll also begin receiving supply convoys within the week, so be aware that you don't mistake our ships for Admiral Rand's. May the impending conference bring the peace I'm sure we all desire." She then walked over to one of the accompanying Wolf armored transport vehicles being used as a command center. "I want you to get in contact with the council that administers Sterry's utilities infrastructure. Tell them we need instructions on how to restore the electricity, water, and sewage treatment for this city." When she was done giving her commands, she returned back to her jeep and drove north toward the highway leading out of Sterry, leaving some of her staff at Augrim's checkpoint.

The officers who were sent to meet with the Sterry Energy and Utilities Council were escorted within the city, past some areas that had been badly damaged, others where there were signs of urban fighting--windows shattered or shot up with holes, ruined vehicles, and scattered rubble in the streets. However the further they went from the industrial port the more they began to see ordinary people, who were busy collecting bricks from damaged buildings, watching children play (skipping rope or playing hopscotch nearby the shell of a stripped and destroyed tank) or hanging out laundry. At a brick building supported around the entrance by sandbags and guarded by armed police the vehicles stopped, and their guides dismounted. Within, the Council, a rather ordinary looking group of civil servants who clearly did their best to dress neatly (admittedly in what looked like very old fashioned clothes) greeted them and after offering tea and stale biscuits began to explain the situation vis a vis: surface water sources and groundwater sources, intake works, pumps and machinery to main distribution and so on. What they really needed, they explained, was machinery to replaced damaged stuff that could not be manufatured locally, and they had presented a list of what they believed would work.

Meanwhile, as the rest of the General's people drove along the highway loop north, they found that this area had been subjected to fairly heavy attack. Clearly a lot of buildings had been damaged; some of the taller ones--apartment buildings, office buildings, and so on--had been badly damaged enough that some of them were missing entire walls, roofs and fronts. Fires still smouldered in some of the buildings, and smoke hung in the air, stinging the lungs and obscuring travel, forcing the column to slow unless they wished to dare recklessly driving down the road through occasional drifts of smoke that obscured vision completely before being blown away by a stray wind.

Beyond this lay the outskirts of the city--flat irrigated fields lay to the north, and farther beyond that the nodding shapes of oil plumps could be seen. But arresting the vision were the literally thousands of vehicles and people like a scattered sea of humanity ahead of them...of people who were clearly not a military outfit but simply entire neighborhoods who had taken to the road...and then stopped...

[New Edom]

In response to General Ferde, after a moment a man emerged from the smoke. The sound of a whistle was heard, three sharp blasts. The man approached with careful steps. A rifle was held casually, an AK-74. He wore an old fashioned urban camo helmet and a patched and worn uniform; his boots looked held together with twine, and he was poorly shaven. Hollow eyes peered at the armoured vehicles. He looked exhausted but somehow proud. "Sergeant Dale, Abner E..." he seemed about to say something more, but refrained. "1st Platoon, C Company, 2nd Battalion 1st CML. Sorry, but we've been getting some odd signals lately...had to be sure. What can I do for you?"

[Helladria]

The officers who were sent to meet with the Sterry Energy and Utilities Council were escorted within the city, past some areas that had been badly damaged, others where there were signs of urban fighting--windows shattered or shot up with holes, ruined vehicles, and scattered rubble in the streets. However the further they went from the industrial port the more they began to see ordinary people, who were busy collecting bricks from damaged buildings, watching children play (skipping rope or playing hopscotch nearby the shell of a stripped and destroyed tank) or hanging out laundry. At a brick building supported around the entrance by sandbags and guarded by armed police the vehicles stopped, and their guides dismounted. Within, the Council, a rather ordinary looking group of civil servants who clearly did their best to dress neatly (admittedly in what looked like very old fashioned clothes) greeted them and after offering tea and stale biscuits began to explain the situation vis a vis: surface water sources and groundwater sources, intake works, pumps and machinery to main distribution and so on. What they really needed, they explained, was machinery to replaced damaged stuff that could not be manufatured locally, and they had presented a list of what they believed would work.

Meanwhile, as the rest of the General's people drove along the highway loop north, they found that this area had been subjected to fairly heavy attack. Clearly a lot of buildings had been damaged; some of the taller ones--apartment buildings, office buildings, and so on--had been badly damaged enough that some of them were missing entire walls, roofs and fronts. Fires still smouldered in some of the buildings, and smoke hung in the air, stinging the lungs and obscuring travel, forcing the column to slow unless they wished to dare recklessly driving down the road through occasional drifts of smoke that obscured vision completely before being blown away by a stray wind.

Beyond this lay the outskirts of the city--flat irrigated fields lay to the north, and farther beyond that the nodding shapes of oil plumps could be seen. But arresting the vision were the literally thousands of vehicles and people like a scattered sea of humanity ahead of them...of people who were clearly not a military outfit but simply entire neighborhoods who had taken to the road...and then stopped...

Listening to the Energy and Utilities Council, Major Bastaan decided to set up a system. "Okay, so these are the items you need. I need to know where they can be procured in case Corsyd can't supply them. Also, we need to know what we can fix right now, so that we don't have to wait until after their arrival to begin necessary work."
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

General Montene stood up in her jeep and looked out across the flat lands with her binoculars. "Would you look at that," she said. She wanted to set up a checkpoint here, but perhaps she should find out what those refugees were doing in their present location. She gave the order to keep driving. "We're going to find out what's going on out there before deciding on a checkpoint location."

[Helladria]

In response to General Ferde, after a moment a man emerged from the smoke. The sound of a whistle was heard, three sharp blasts. The man approached with careful steps. A rifle was held casually, an AK-74. He wore an old fashioned urban camo helmet and a patched and worn uniform; his boots looked held together with twine, and he was poorly shaven. Hollow eyes peered at the armoured vehicles. He looked exhausted but somehow proud. "Sergeant Dale, Abner E..." he seemed about to say something more, but refrained. "1st Platoon, C Company, 2nd Battalion 1st CML. Sorry, but we've been getting some odd signals lately...had to be sure. What can I do for you?"

"It's good to speak with you, Sergeant," General Ferde said. "You look like you've been through hell. I'm Lieutenant General Ferde, mission leader of the Helladric Peace Corps deployment to New Edom. Tell me Sergeant, are you aware of the current ceasefire, and the approaching Peace Conference? I don't wish to instill any false hope," Ferde continued, "but things may be starting to calm down. My mission specifically is to secure civilian population centers and critical infrastructure for the purpose of holding them as demilitarized zones so that the refugees will be able to return to a certain level of normality. It is my hope that your military force will evacuate the city and hand over control to the international peacekeeping effort. Ideally, we would like any fighting to take place away from civilians, and outside the city. Short of that, we request that you honor the ceasefire between the Free Congress and the Monarchist forces and recognize Helladric forces as legitimate third party non-combatants."

[New Edom]

The officers who were sent to meet with the Sterry Energy and Utilities Council were escorted within the city, past some areas that had been badly damaged, others where there were signs of urban fighting--windows shattered or shot up with holes, ruined vehicles, and scattered rubble in the streets. However the further they went from the industrial port the more they began to see ordinary people, who were busy collecting bricks from damaged buildings, watching children play (skipping rope or playing hopscotch nearby the shell of a stripped and destroyed tank) or hanging out laundry. At a brick building supported around the entrance by sandbags and guarded by armed police the vehicles stopped, and their guides dismounted. Within, the Council, a rather ordinary looking group of civil servants who clearly did their best to dress neatly (admittedly in what looked like very old fashioned clothes) greeted them and after offering tea and stale biscuits began to explain the situation vis a vis: surface water sources and groundwater sources, intake works, pumps and machinery to main distribution and so on. What they really needed, they explained, was machinery to replaced damaged stuff that could not be manufatured locally, and they had presented a list of what they believed would work.

Meanwhile, as the rest of the General's people drove along the highway loop north, they found that this area had been subjected to fairly heavy attack. Clearly a lot of buildings had been damaged; some of the taller ones--apartment buildings, office buildings, and so on--had been badly damaged enough that some of them were missing entire walls, roofs and fronts. Fires still smouldered in some of the buildings, and smoke hung in the air, stinging the lungs and obscuring travel, forcing the column to slow unless they wished to dare recklessly driving down the road through occasional drifts of smoke that obscured vision completely before being blown away by a stray wind.

Beyond this lay the outskirts of the city--flat irrigated fields lay to the north, and farther beyond that the nodding shapes of oil plumps could be seen. But arresting the vision were the literally thousands of vehicles and people like a scattered sea of humanity ahead of them...of people who were clearly not a military outfit but simply entire neighborhoods who had taken to the road...and then stopped...

Listening to the Energy and Utilities Council, Major Bastaan decided to set up a system. "Okay, so these are the items you need. I need to know where they can be procured in case Corsyd can't supply them. Also, we need to know what we can fix right now, so that we don't have to wait until after their arrival to begin necessary work."
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

General Montene stood up in her jeep and looked out across the flat lands with her binoculars. "Would you look at that," she said. She wanted to set up a checkpoint here, but perhaps she should find out what those refugees were doing in their present location. She gave the order to keep driving. "We're going to find out what's going on out there before deciding on a checkpoint location."

The members of the Energy and Utility Council looked at one another, and then one of them said, "What you can fix? Look, Major, I don't know if you understand. We need clean water now. Only people who are boiling it are keeping free from dysentery...and frankly...cholera. It's a concern; the Health and Safety Board Director has actually issued us an official warning, and I think he's done all that he can."

One of the other Councillors shook her head. "He's pretty much had a breakdown, you can only do so much. In some areas there is vital need for work to be done, and simply too many people sick for it to get done. We need clean water NOW...to keep on living. The 3rd CML troops...they're doing alright but...I'd say most of their casualties haven't been from the Royal New Edomite Navy, they've been from disease and parasites."

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

An anxious group of people approached Montene. A sandy haired, balding man, wearing a bloodstained physician's smock and wire rimmed spectacles led them, his face gaunt. He was weary looking beyond belief. From the group beyond there was a feel that they were encamped there, thousands of them, the vehicles sprawled over the road, a hot metal smell mingling with a faint underlying odour of human waste and unwashed bodies and stale food. From the medical man came a sharper bunch of smells--antiseptic. "My name," he said in a croak. He coughed and cleared his throat. "My name is Doctor Nathaniel Berger. I don't know who you are, but we need to either enter the city or move on to Fort Necessity." He gestured off towards the shimmering horizon beyond the city. "We're down to maybe a day's worth of water. We can't move forward, nor to the left or right...there are mines out there. If you can help us, please do. " He swayed, and then resolutely kept standing, waving aside a man in a sweat stained police tunic with gold insignia standing beside him. On the other side was a squat fierce looking man who stood as calm and resolute as an ape at the base of a tree, and nearby them a woman, dark eyed and with lines of weariness on her face, wearing a stained and worn lab coat as stained as the doctor's.

[New Edom]

"It's good to speak with you, Sergeant," General Ferde said. "You look like you've been through hell. I'm Lieutenant General Ferde, mission leader of the Helladric Peace Corps deployment to New Edom. Tell me Sergeant, are you aware of the current ceasefire, and the approaching Peace Conference? I don't wish to instill any false hope," Ferde continued, "but things may be starting to calm down. My mission specifically is to secure civilian population centers and critical infrastructure for the purpose of holding them as demilitarized zones so that the refugees will be able to return to a certain level of normality. It is my hope that your military force will evacuate the city and hand over control to the international peacekeeping effort. Ideally, we would like any fighting to take place away from civilians, and outside the city. Short of that, we request that you honor the ceasefire between the Free Congress and the Monarchist forces and recognize Helladric forces as legitimate third party non-combatants."

Sergeant Dale blinked. His expression didn't change. "Evacuate the city..." he shook like a horse dealing with flies, barely blinking. "Sir, my mission...our mission, is to hold until relieved. We can't give up this city. The ceasefire, okay." He looked back over at the barricade. Then back at Ferde. "But I have my orders, not to let anyone through, General. I'm going to have to contact my headquarters, okay?"

[Estovakiva]

The Federal Republic Estovakivia today issued the proposal of lending 50-Ural-trucks to aid in the humanitarian-problems, as well as to decrease the logistical problems, the nation has as well expressed its concern of the welfare of the people. And that this wil help stabilize the situation in this unstable country, if it is required Estovakivia wil lend additonal trucks.

Two Ilyushin Il-76-candid stratgetic air-lifters are on stand-by ready to begin to deliver the trucks.

[New Edom]

Lookinghaven Daily News

The Humanitarian Crisis of New Edom is getting dealt with, says spokesperson for the New Edomite Refugee Council. "Almost every day countries are offering to send assistance. It's bringing in a lot of optimism."

The Federal Republic Estovakivia today issued the proposal of lending 50-Ural-trucks to aid in the humanitarian-problems, as well as to decrease the logistical problems, the nation has as well expressed its concern of the welfare of the people. And that this wil help stabilize the situation in this unstable country, if it is required Estovakivia wil lend additonal trucks, said a spokesperson for the Estovakivian Government.

"We're anticipating that with the peace talks there will be an end to this conflict. So far everyone is cooperating with the cease fire," Archbishop William Laudner said enthusiastically to journalists as the New Jewell resort is being cleaned up in anticipation of the arrival of delegates.

[Helladria]

The members of the Energy and Utility Council looked at one another, and then one of them said, "What you can fix? Look, Major, I don't know if you understand. We need clean water now. Only people who are boiling it are keeping free from dysentery...and frankly...cholera. It's a concern; the Health and Safety Board Director has actually issued us an official warning, and I think he's done all that he can."

One of the other Councillors shook her head. "He's pretty much had a breakdown, you can only do so much. In some areas there is vital need for work to be done, and simply too many people sick for it to get done. We need clean water NOW...to keep on living. The 3rd CML troops...they're doing alright but...I'd say most of their casualties haven't been from the Royal New Edomite Navy, they've been from disease and parasites."

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

An anxious group of people approached Montene. A sandy haired, balding man, wearing a bloodstained physician's smock and wire rimmed spectacles led them, his face gaunt. He was weary looking beyond belief. From the group beyond there was a feel that they were encamped there, thousands of them, the vehicles sprawled over the road, a hot metal smell mingling with a faint underlying odour of human waste and unwashed bodies and stale food. From the medical man came a sharper bunch of smells--antiseptic. "My name," he said in a croak. He coughed and cleared his throat. "My name is Doctor Nathaniel Berger. I don't know who you are, but we need to either enter the city or move on to Fort Necessity." He gestured off towards the shimmering horizon beyond the city. "We're down to maybe a day's worth of water. We can't move forward, nor to the left or right...there are mines out there. If you can help us, please do. " He swayed, and then resolutely kept standing, waving aside a man in a sweat stained police tunic with gold insignia standing beside him. On the other side was a squat fierce looking man who stood as calm and resolute as an ape at the base of a tree, and nearby them a woman, dark eyed and with lines of weariness on her face, wearing a stained and worn lab coat as stained as the doctor's.

Major Bastaan sighed and responded, "I understand your exasperation, and we are trying to address these very same issues. We're still flying in supplies, but for the moment, we're trying to hit what we can. We're already setting up our facilities, and we're preparing distribution of water purification tablets, but this will only go so far. We need to get these utilities back up sooner rather than later. Once they are finally working again, we can focus on bringing in other necessary supplies."

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Montene looked at the weary crowd. "My name is Brigadier General Meino Montene. I am leading the Helladric peacekeeping mission in Sterry, which is to recover as much of the city as possible and keep it out of the fighting, while restoring some normalcy. I believe we will be able to provide the water you need but it will take a bit of time to get it up here and get the process going, maybe 2-3 hours. I also have food, though not enough to feed everyone here, and we will be providing medical services to those who are in need. I'm going to get a team on clearing the mines, but getting 'em clear will take a while." Meino returned to her command vehicle and gave the orders to begin getting water and supplies up to their position. "Also tell HQ that we've made contact with a large refugee group and that food and water tablets are highest priority. Tell them to start flying them into Sterry Commercial Airport."

[Helladria]

"It's good to speak with you, Sergeant," General Ferde said. "You look like you've been through hell. I'm Lieutenant General Ferde, mission leader of the Helladric Peace Corps deployment to New Edom. Tell me Sergeant, are you aware of the current ceasefire, and the approaching Peace Conference? I don't wish to instill any false hope," Ferde continued, "but things may be starting to calm down. My mission specifically is to secure civilian population centers and critical infrastructure for the purpose of holding them as demilitarized zones so that the refugees will be able to return to a certain level of normality. It is my hope that your military force will evacuate the city and hand over control to the international peacekeeping effort. Ideally, we would like any fighting to take place away from civilians, and outside the city. Short of that, we request that you honor the ceasefire between the Free Congress and the Monarchist forces and recognize Helladric forces as legitimate third party non-combatants."

Sergeant Dale blinked. His expression didn't change. "Evacuate the city..." he shook like a horse dealing with flies, barely blinking. "Sir, my mission...our mission, is to hold until relieved. We can't give up this city. The ceasefire, okay." He looked back over at the barricade. Then back at Ferde. "But I have my orders, not to let anyone through, General. I'm going to have to contact my headquarters, okay?"

"That's fine, Sergeant. I'd also appreciate being able to speak with your headquarters, so that I can negotiate the formation of an acceptable demilitarized region in this city."

[New Edom]

["That's fine, Sergeant. I'd also appreciate being able to speak with your headquarters, so that I can negotiate the formation of an acceptable demilitarized region in this city."

"RTO, to me!" called Sergeant Dale over his shoulder. A soldier as muddy as he came trotting up, blinking at the rain and at the foreign APCs and IFVs. "Yes Sarge?" Dale nodded to the General. "Patch him in to HQ."

It was an old fashioned manpack radio, something that few really modern and powerful nations used, and like many things that the CML used, rather jury rigged and adjusted, electrician's tape and other accoutrements supporting it working. "Leopard Six, this is Leopard one, over." There was a buzzing sound of talk. "Yes Sir, we got foreign humantarian officer here wanting to speak to you, over. Yessir." The young RTO handed Ferde the handset. "Here you go, Gen'ral."

"General, this is Major Magdiel, I'm the C/O of the 4-2 CML. How can I help you? Over." came a tinny voice.

[New Edom]

Major Bastaan sighed and responded, "I understand your exasperation, and we are trying to address these very same issues. We're still flying in supplies, but for the moment, we're trying to hit what we can. We're already setting up our facilities, and we're preparing distribution of water purification tablets, but this will only go so far. We need to get these utilities back up sooner rather than later. Once they are finally working again, we can focus on bringing in other necessary supplies."

The Council were apologetic and grateful. "You understand," the Chair muttered, offering a hand, "We've had a lot of strain...we so much appreciate all you are offering to do." The major could see tears wiped from eyes, hands clasped. All of them wanted to offer hands. "We've heard so much talk, and now this...we've dumped our grief on you, but you came. You didn't just talk, you came..."

Montene looked at the weary crowd. "My name is Brigadier General Meino Montene. I am leading the Helladric peacekeeping mission in Sterry, which is to recover as much of the city as possible and keep it out of the fighting, while restoring some normalcy. I believe we will be able to provide the water you need but it will take a bit of time to get it up here and get the process going, maybe 2-3 hours. I also have food, though not enough to feed everyone here, and we will be providing medical services to those who are in need. I'm going to get a team on clearing the mines, but getting 'em clear will take a while." Meino returned to her command vehicle and gave the orders to begin getting water and supplies up to their position. "Also tell HQ that we've made contact with a large refugee group and that food and water tablets are highest priority. Tell them to start flying them into Sterry Commercial Airport."

Dr. Berger almost forgot to thank Montene; he at first just gave a weary nod, but then paused, and removed his spectacles a moment, and said "Thank you," as though it cost him great effort. By the time any of the Helladrians saw him again he was asleep so deeply that even the sound of the sobbing and cheering and clapping of the people, who at last felt they would be relieved, did not wake him up.

Fort Necessity, Haran Province.

Colonel Hermengild was gently stroking the tan and cream feathers of a desert owl, which peeped softly at him. He smiled and turned to where Major Orr had come in to his quarters. The room was hung with woven rugs of black and gold, and the light coming in was beautiful. A beautiful spot in a dour town. "Major?" Hermengild asked. He was a long faced man, lanky as a worn desert tree, leathery and still supple for a man in his fifties, a lifelong special forces operative.

"Ceasefire is in effect." the Major reported. "And humanitarian operatives are in the province."

Hermengild nodded. "We'll hold our positions for now, and then we'll see. And Major..."

"Sir?" Orr turned as he was going to the door.

"I want the whole regiment ready to move out if need be, and the 30th to prepare to hold the town on its own. Carry on."

[Neweegeeia]

While we would aid you if we could, we're in an even worse state than you are.
Be assured that as soon as we get the government back on track again, we will send you aid.

[The Spinebreaker Clan]

To: New Edom
From: High Chieftain Thunderan Spinebreaker

Even in your "modern technology" world people demonstrate weakness. In normal times, we would destroy such beings, but the tribe's spiritual leaders said that instead of destroying the weak, we should improve them and turn them into powerful warriors.

So, in order to improve your "nation", I am sending some boats with food for your people, consider it a rare act of simpathy from our people.

(This message was translated by Jarrison Hones, a historian held captive by the Spinebreaker Clan and used to communicate with the outside world.)

[Helladria]

"RTO, to me!" called Sergeant Dale over his shoulder. A soldier as muddy as he came trotting up, blinking at the rain and at the foreign APCs and IFVs. "Yes Sarge?" Dale nodded to the General. "Patch him in to HQ."

It was an old fashioned manpack radio, something that few really modern and powerful nations used, and like many things that the CML used, rather jury rigged and adjusted, electrician's tape and other accoutrements supporting it working. "Leopard Six, this is Leopard one, over." There was a buzzing sound of talk. "Yes Sir, we got foreign humantarian officer here wanting to speak to you, over. Yessir." The young RTO handed Ferde the handset. "Here you go, Gen'ral."

"General, this is Major Magdiel, I'm the C/O of the 4-2 CML. How can I help you? Over." came a tinny voice.

"Good day, Major," Ferde replied. "I'm Lieutenant General Teimo Ferde, mission leader of the Helladric Peace Corps deployment to New Edom. With bilateral authorization of the Free Congress and the Monarchist faction, the nature of our mission is to secure urban population centers for demilitarization, and restore critical infrastructure. We also come with supplies and medical treatment for the refugees and other civilians in need. Currently I have forces on the road leading from the Titanis Base outside of Harbourtown and seek to form a demilitarized zone that can stretch to the A-3 highway. If the regions you are defending are of no particular strategic value, we would like to ask that you allow us to take over their administration and move your forces elsewhere, preferably outside the city's population centers. Can you work with us?"

[New Edom]

To: New Edom
From: High Chieftain Thunderan Spinebreaker

Even in your "modern technology" world people demonstrate weakness. In normal times, we would destroy such beings, but the tribe's spiritual leaders said that instead of destroying the weak, we should improve them and turn them into powerful warriors.

So, in order to improve your "nation", I am sending some boats with food for your people, consider it a rare act of simpathy from our people.

(This message was translated by Jarrison Hones, a historian held captive by the Spinebreaker Clan and used to communicate with the outside world.)

OOC: You deserve a serious high five dude.

IC:

As the spiritual leader of my country I thank you. Our wisest teacher, prophet and saviour once said "What you do unto the least of these, you do to me." We will remember this act of friendship and treasure it for the rare act that it is.

With gratitude,

Archbishop William Laudner,
Chief Mediator for the New Edomite Refugee Council

[New Edom]

While we would aid you if we could, we're in an even worse state than you are.
Be assured that as soon as we get the government back on track again, we will send you aid.

Many thanks for the kind thoughts, nevertheless.

[New Edom]

"Good day, Major," Ferde replied. "I'm Lieutenant General Teimo Ferde, mission leader of the Helladric Peace Corps deployment to New Edom. With bilateral authorization of the Free Congress and the Monarchist faction, the nature of our mission is to secure urban population centers for demilitarization, and restore critical infrastructure. We also come with supplies and medical treatment for the refugees and other civilians in need. Currently I have forces on the road leading from the Titanis Base outside of Harbourtown and seek to form a demilitarized zone that can stretch to the A-3 highway. If the regions you are defending are of no particular strategic value, we would like to ask that you allow us to take over their administration and move your forces elsewhere, preferably outside the city's population centers. Can you work with us?"

There was a pause, then the Major said, "General, I can work with you on a demilitarized zone to the highway. What we're looking at is about an 8 block radius in the north-northeast sector of the city, and I can meet with you and show you the grid, even take some of your people round to get an eyes-on look. But my orders are not to withdraw one man from the city--and those orders come directly from General Abiathar. This real estate is what we're fighting for--this is part of why the Monarchists take us seriously. That's what I take it you mean by strategic value. How does that suit you, Sir?"

[Helladria]

There was a pause, then the Major said, "General, I can work with you on a demilitarized zone to the highway. What we're looking at is about an 8 block radius in the north-northeast sector of the city, and I can meet with you and show you the grid, even take some of your people round to get an eyes-on look. But my orders are not to withdraw one man from the city--and those orders come directly from General Abiathar. This real estate is what we're fighting for--this is part of why the Monarchists take us seriously. That's what I take it you mean by strategic value. How does that suit you, Sir?"

Ferde responded, "I can work with your terms, Major, but let me say that any region you relinquish to us will not be lost to your opponents, nor will the territory they hand over be transferred to you. Your persistence has paid off, and until this conflict reaches resolution, the demilitarized areas will continue to be administered outside of Monarchist control. I would further appreciate if you could direct us to any other areas inside the city that are not held by either faction so that we can attempt to make them livable. I would certainly like to meet with you to work out terms."

[Vici Minerva]

After about half an hour, all the Panzers had stationed themselves outside of the small town; the puny buildings surrounded by a ring of steel. All the men generally huddled around their Panzers and began to eat their rations, regaling each other of tales of when they've tried to get lucky with some busty bombshell, or some amazing feat they pulled off one day when going on a night drinking. Laughter exhumed from their mouths along with the diesel from the Panzers. King, on the other hand, had different things in mine...

He walked around the town casually, as if he wasn't a sight for sore eyes; a towering, blonde-haired, violet-eyed, pale-skinned, attractive-looking Field Marshal garbed in black. He would smile to the locals who saw him, his dark goggles looking a little more friendly then usual. His strides moved more quickly and pronounced when he saw Izabella. He smiled, his charm oozing from every corner of his body. He removed his goggles, and his cap revealing his reddish-violet eyes and platinum blonde hair. He smiled at her, revealing his perfect teeth. Though he smelled of diesel, and slightly of sweat she couldn't help but be a little more... excited, for she had found the smell to be a little exotic, considering that the fragrance was rare, and had a sort of masculine charm to them. The sweat too signified how much he worked.

"Hello miss...." his hand moving in a circular motion, waiting for her to introduce her self.

[New Edom]

After about half an hour, all the Panzers had stationed themselves outside of the small town; the puny buildings surrounded by a ring of steel. All the men generally huddled around their Panzers and began to eat their rations, regaling each other of tales of when they've tried to get lucky with some busty bombshell, or some amazing feat they pulled off one day when going on a night drinking. Laughter exhumed from their mouths along with the diesel from the Panzers. King, on the other hand, had different things in mine...

He walked around the town casually, as if he wasn't a sight for sore eyes; a towering, blonde-haired, violet-eyed, pale-skinned, attractive-looking Field Marshal garbed in black. He would smile to the locals who saw him, his dark goggles looking a little more friendly then usual. His strides moved more quickly and pronounced when he saw Izabella. He smiled, his charm oozing from every corner of his body. He removed his goggles, and his cap revealing his reddish-violet eyes and platinum blonde hair. He smiled at her, revealing his perfect teeth. Though he smelled of diesel, and slightly of sweat she couldn't help but be a little more... excited, for she had found the smell to be a little exotic, considering that the fragrance was rare, and had a sort of masculine charm to them. The sweat too signified how much he worked.

"Hello miss...." his hand moving in a circular motion, waiting for her to introduce her self.

"Izabella Quiri, sir, I teach at the grammar school here in town." she said a little shyly and warily, her eyes flicking around his strange uniform, peering up into his eyes curiously. Quiri occasionally saw soldiers, usually they were very busy though, hurrying on a maneuver or just driving by, eyes ahead, staring businesslike at what they were doing, or else she saw a helicopter crew; they looked more businesslike, in their jumpsuits with insignia, like a police officer or fireman but with more martial looking badges.

[New Edom]

There was a pause, then the Major said, "General, I can work with you on a demilitarized zone to the highway. What we're looking at is about an 8 block radius in the north-northeast sector of the city, and I can meet with you and show you the grid, even take some of your people round to get an eyes-on look. But my orders are not to withdraw one man from the city--and those orders come directly from General Abiathar. This real estate is what we're fighting for--this is part of why the Monarchists take us seriously. That's what I take it you mean by strategic value. How does that suit you, Sir?"

Ferde responded, "I can work with your terms, Major, but let me say that any region you relinquish to us will not be lost to your opponents, nor will the territory they hand over be transferred to you. Your persistence has paid off, and until this conflict reaches resolution, the demilitarized areas will continue to be administered outside of Monarchist control. I would further appreciate if you could direct us to any other areas inside the city that are not held by either faction so that we can attempt to make them livable. I would certainly like to meet with you to work out terms."

"I'd think that would be a good idea too, General. Why don't you head for the Fineberg Bank of Commerce--tell Sergeant Dale to give you an escort up here--and we'll meet there, that's where my HQ is."

(OOC: assuming that Ferde doesn't delay)

Through the city they found that this was directly disputed territory--in fact up one of the streets, Sergeant Dale (who had accompanied them in a Fast Attack Vehicle--basically a souped up dune buggy with big tires and rollable fine wire mesh for protection) explained, stopping, pointing to where several blocks down they could see the squat shapes of Monarchist BMP-3s.

"That's where the Monarchist lines start, down there. We go a few blocks farther into the city to get to the Battalion CP." The FAV spurted up power again and sped along, keeping pace with the Helladrian vehicles, until they came to a heavily fortified bank, a building in the neo-classical style complete with marble pillars and grand steps, lions and winged griffons and semi-nude goddesses above the arch. Here and there it was pitted with small arms fire pocks.

Inside a Major, with a light beard and the intent dark eyes of a hunter offered a salute and a handshake. "Major Magdiel, sir. Welcome. I'm wondering how this plan of yours would work. How would we maintain our sovereignty over areas we patrol, regardless of civilian presences there?"

[Helladria]

"I'd think that would be a good idea too, General. Why don't you head for the Fineberg Bank of Commerce--tell Sergeant Dale to give you an escort up here--and we'll meet there, that's where my HQ is."

(OOC: assuming that Ferde doesn't delay)

Through the city they found that this was directly disputed territory--in fact up one of the streets, Sergeant Dale (who had accompanied them in a Fast Attack Vehicle--basically a souped up dune buggy with big tires and rollable fine wire mesh for protection) explained, stopping, pointing to where several blocks down they could see the squat shapes of Monarchist BMP-3s.

"That's where the Monarchist lines start, down there. We go a few blocks farther into the city to get to the Battalion CP." The FAV spurted up power again and sped along, keeping pace with the Helladrian vehicles, until they came to a heavily fortified bank, a building in the neo-classical style complete with marble pillars and grand steps, lions and winged griffons and semi-nude goddesses above the arch. Here and there it was pitted with small arms fire pocks.

Inside a Major, with a light beard and the intent dark eyes of a hunter offered a salute and a handshake. "Major Magdiel, sir. Welcome. I'm wondering how this plan of yours would work. How would we maintain our sovereignty over areas we patrol, regardless of civilian presences there?"

(OOC: Wait, is this Fineburg or Harbourtown, or might that be the name of the banking company?)

General Ferde smiled, rolled up his sleeves, and thought to himself, "Now we're getting somewhere."

"Major, I propose tree distinct zones of control: the areas you are unwilling to vacate, which will remain in your control; the areas the Monarchists are unwilling to vacate, which will remain in their control; and the areas we will be allowed to demilitarize. Think of it this way. Any area you hand over to the Helladric Peace Corps will be an area you no longer have to defend. You are free to move your forces around as you see fit, while not having to worry about the Monarchists taking these areas over. In the mean time, Helladric forces will open these demilitarized areas back up to civilians, and run our supply lines through them. At this point, so long as these demilitarized zones are in place, you will remain a relevant concern to the Monarchists, so they'll continue to take you seriously, as you say."