The Dawn of Independence (IC, MT, Open)

[The Isle of Beithe]

16 OCTOBER 2018

Harvest Island Protest Ends in Bloodshed and Mass Arrest!



Since the foundation of the Allied States of the Isle of Beithe in 1948, the protectorates of Harvest Island, Sunvale Island, and Westford Island have maintained a benign relationship with the federal government. They have enjoyed relative autonomy in their affairs, free from the responsibilities of official statehood, and have received protection from the Beithe Armed Forces and federal aide during natural disasters; and the citizens of the protectorate islands have been granted Beithen citizenship, giving them full support of the Beithen government in their affairs abroad. To many, it has been an idyllic state of affairs.

The protectorate islands have had the occasional disagreements with the federal government of Beithe, but despite a multitude of minor conflicts, the citizens of the protectorate islands had never openly advocated for complete independence from Beithe, though underground secessionist parties have been active since at least the mid-1970s. Today, however, this has changed.

This afternoon, a group of approximately five-hundred Harvest Islanders protested in front of the island’s capitol building, in response to the election of Governor Charles T. Conner. Mr. Conner, a member of the Unity Party of Harvest Island, had advocated for the island’s statehood during his campaign and had announced in his inauguration speech that he would immediately reach out to the federal government of Beithe to begin formal proceedings.

The National Herald interviewed several protesters, all of whom have opted to remain anonymous. One young man boldly described Mr. Conner as “the anti-Christ” and claimed that Beithen statehood threatened the Roman Catholic Diocese of Harvest Island, the protectorate’s largest religious institution. Another protester spoke passionately regarding the allegedly unfair taxation of Harvest Island’s citizens. “We give away all of this hard-earned money,” claimed the man, “and receive nothing for it. The federal government of Beithe has taken advantage of our island for decades! Sure, we get military protection, and that’s fine and all…. But we can form our own military. We don’t need the support of the mainlanders!”

The initially peaceful protest ended with bloodshed when Harvest Island Governor-General Franklin Simpson ordered a Marine Corps battalion to put an end to the rally at approximately 1500. Adorning full combat gear and wielding assault rifles, the Beithen Marines ordered the protesters to immediately disperse. Demonstrators responded by throwing various objects at the marines and shouting obscenities. Around 1515, the first shots were fired. By 1530, more than three dozen protesters had been killed or injured, and more than a hundred persons had been taken into custody.

Governor Conner was promptly escorted to safety by his private security after the violence erupted.

The National Herald requested an interview with President Ehrich Kemp hours after the events in Harvest Island, but the High Council Office of Public Relations informed us that the president and other members of the High Council of Beithe will “not be answering questions until a thorough internal investigation has been conducted.”

[The Isle of Beithe]

Centerville, Protectorate of Harvest Island
17 October 2018. 0036.

The People’s Militia of Harvest Island was not prepared to back down. The Children of the Cause had suffered greatly yesterday afternoon. But tonight, the victory would be theirs.

Twelve-hundred masked islanders marched through Main Street of Centerville, Harvest Island’s capital city, carrying with them an assortment of firearms. They were on their way to Willowick Naval Base, the headquarters of the Beithe Pacific Expeditionary Command.

As the lights of the base became visible, the leader of the militia (the "Father of the Cause") broke into song.

“Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored
He hath loosed the fateful lightning of His terrible swift sword
His truth is marching on!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!”

The Children joined their Father in song: “Glory, glory, hallelujah!”

"Glory, glory, hallelujah!”

“Glory, glory, hallelujah!”

“His Truth is marching on!”

[Borman Empire]

Official Imperial Communique:

To: Governor-General Franklin Simpson and President Ehrich Kemp
From: Chancellor Licinius

Gentlemen,

It is not always the Empire’s prerogative to meddle in the affairs of other nations, especially when it comes to how they deal with protectorates – an issue we care about deeply.

I could not help but notice an article in The National Herald, though. General-Governor, you did everything right in putting an end to that rally. I applaud and commend your work, and I want you to know that you and your president have our complete and utmost support.

The 35th Fleet has been doing exercises in your area of the world. While the fleet itself would be overkill, we’d be happy to dispatch a carrier or two with several escort ships to provide any type of physical or emotional support.

Sincerely,

Chancellor Licinius

[The Isle of Beithe]

Presidential Mansion, Capitol City, Isle of Beithe
16 October, 2018. 2332.

President Ehrich Kemp could not manage sleep that night, even with the aid of pharmaceuticals. The Harvest island affair had already proven the toughest dilemma of his presidency. The federal government of the Allied States of the Isle of Beithe had always protected the relative autonomy of its protectorates with fervor---but how could he overlook such a direct assault against his government’s authority? He felt like a father who had been betrayed by a spoiled child.

As the president read through a large stack of documents, he found himself pausing on one particular communique: a letter from the chancellor of the Borman Empire. He could not repress his smile of relief. Now, he only regretted that he had not known more about this nation offering its support. It was not an unknown name to him, as the Borman’s fleet’s activities in the South Pacific had been briefly mentioned in various military intelligence reports. “Well, I guess we shall become acquainted quite quickly,” Kemp said aloud to himself.

“Lance-Corporal Yougen, please come in,” the president ordered.

A young, lanky marine promptly entered Kemp’s office. Standing at attention, he awaited his orders.

“I have a dispatch to send to a foreign dignitary,” Kemp announced to the lance-corporal. “Highest priority….”

TO: Chancellor Licinius of the Borman Empire
FROM: President Ehrich Kemp of the Isle of Beithe

The Allied States of the Isle of Beithe is honored by your words of encouragement and welcome any support in this delicate affair. The Beithe Navy’s 4th Expeditionary Fleet is currently operating not far from your area of exercise. We welcome a rendezvous with our forces and further discussions. Please advise.

[Borman Empire]

Admiral Sims stared momentarily into the radar screen in front of him. The Beithen fleet was now in range as a handful of dots, but his mind was elsewhere. Across the screen danced the Cordensan rebels as he watched his wife murdered, time and again. He lay on the ground, motionless, beaten to a pulp and assumedly left for dead. The din of combat and unholy siege filled his ears, but gave way to the voice of a young officer.

“Sir, can you hear me? Are you alright?”

Sims shook his head and the figures swirled away as his eyes refocused on the radar dots. The anniversary of the event always claimed part of his attention.

“Yes, yes. Apologies. Have we messaged their capital ship, yet?”

“Preparing a message now…but sir, what are we expected to do? Stroke each other off in the middle of the Pacific?”

Sims let out a deep laugh, his infectious smile returning to his face and bringing ease to the young officer.

“Son, we aren’t paid to strategize politics – we’re paid to follow orders and crush our nation’s enemies. Sometimes that means making friends.”

“Aye sir.”

“Dispatch two gladiator VTOL transports, advise them they’re inbound and invite their admiral and any requisite staff to join me in our wardroom.”

[Japan and Pacific States]

The Regency Council Chamber, The Imperial Palace, Kyoto, Honshu, The Empire of Japan

"So this is all over some small protectorate wishing to become independent from their "masters"?" Shogun Koubuin said aloud while Regent Kyoko Takatsukasa nodded her head, Kyoko was Japan's foreign minister and overall foreign minister for the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere. "Hmm.. Perhaps we should extend our assistance in this matter. ...Contrary to previous matters of the international scope, we should use the revitalised navy to intervene and mediate some sort of talks between these people and their "masters"." Shogun Koubuin said as she thought. "If so then I suppose we should send the combined fleet." Regent Ikaruga Takatsugu said while he leaned on the table, clasping his hands together.

"Hmm... And send one of our representatives, perhaps the daughter of the Prime Minister..." Shogun Koubuin said before Ikaruga spoke. "Make use of the puppets we use to give the illusion we're not in control, instead of sending a vassal retainer? Or perhaps one of us?" Ikaruga said as he looked up the table to the Shogun of whom nodded her head. "Yes, it may work out in our favour, possibly help us with our international image since the unfortunate events in Qaidi and elsewhere have.... Complicated things." Shogun Koubuin said as she looked down the table, past Ikaruga to a map the spanned the wall she was looking at. "Hmm.. We'll send the combined fleet with the daughter of the prime minister, since she's already dishonoured her family by wearing the dark grey and blue livery of the UN. She could perhaps restore her family's honour in the service of the Japanese Empire." Shogun Koubuin said before Ikaruga stood up and bowed his head to Yuuhi.

"I shall make the necessary preparations." Ikaruga said then Kyoko stood up and bowed her head to Yuuhi. "I'll write a communique to the necessary peoples." Kyoko then left and Ikaruga followed. Yuuhi then too left and returned to her duties overseeing the day to day running of the military and the empire as a whole.

Imperial Japanese Foreign Ministry, Office of Regent Kyoko Takatsukasa, Honshu, The Empire of Japan

"How troublesome..." Kyoko said before she opened her office door and, entered shutting it behind her, returning to her desk she began writing a communique to the "necessary peoples" involved in issue of Harvest Island.

日本帝国外務省の公式声明 Official Communique From The Imperial Foreign Ministry of the Empire of Japan To: The Foreign Ministry of the Allied States of the Isle of Beithe, The Foreign Ministry of The Borman Empire, and Whichever organisation on Harvest Island handles Foreign Affairs in the name of the local people. From: The Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Empire of Japanese Pacific States, Imperial Foreign Minister, Head of the 5th Regency House of Takatsukasa, Kyoko Takatsukasa Encryption Level:None Greetings. The Japanese Shogunate has become rather concerned over Harvest Island, by authorisation of her Imperial Majesty, The Shogun of the Japanese Empire, Yuuhi Koubuin. We will be sending the Combined Fleet of the Imperial Japanese Navy along with a representative of the Shogunate, from the UN to mediate a meeting of this matter. All sides should be aware, the Combined Fleet is authorised to intervene in this matter by order of the Shogunate should it be necessary. And it will defend itself if attacked. Should the situation spiral out of control then the Shogunate will take whatever steps it deems necessary to restore order in the Pacific. Signed. Imperial Foreign Minister of the Empire of Japanese Pacific States, Head of the 5th Regency House of Takatsukasa, Regent Kyoko Takatsukasa 署名された 日本太平洋帝国外務大臣、第五回高等弁務団長、リージェント高槻恭子

[The Isle of Beithe]

The news of the Harvest Island situation had not yet reached the sailors of the Beithe 4th Expeditionary Fleet, aside from the fleet’s senior officers. It remained a mystery to the men and women aboard the 60+ Beithen warships why they had suddenly reversed direction: originally sailing towards the North Pacific, they were now en route back to Willowick Naval Base. And now there was talk of a rendezvous with some foreign fleet! The scuttlebutt amongst the junior sailors was that war was coming.

Aboard the command ship BNS Capitol (CC-003), Admiral Chester Ulysses waited at the helipad for the Borman transport. He had relayed to the Borman fleet’s commander that he would be bringing the following staff with him:

Rear-Admiral Sarah McGregory – 4th Expeditionary Fleet Chief Intelligence Officer
Commander Jacob Adams – 4th Expeditionary Fleet Senior Legal Officer
*Captain Francis Stuttgart – Admiral’s Aide
Richard Morrison – Beithe Ministry of Foreign Affairs Naval Liaison

* Unknown to everyone in the fleet except Admiral Ulysses and Rear-Admiral McGregory, Captain Stuttgart was actually Lieutenant James Brody of the Beithe Central Security Service (the nation’s “secret police”).

Just as the Borman VTOL transport came into view, the admiral’s yeoman rushed over to deliver a recent communique. Adm. Ulysses quickly read it: it was from the Empire of Japanese Pacific States.

“Gentlemen and ladies,” the admiral shouted over the sound of the landing aircraft, “it appears that we’ll be having some more guests to this party.”

“Shall we bring out the good china, then, sir?” yelled Commander Adams.

[The Isle of Beithe]

TO: Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Empire of Japanese Pacific States
FROM: Beithe Minister of Foreign Affairs
CC: Borman Empire Foreign Affairs Ministry; Beithe High Council; Governor-General's Office, Protectorate of Harvest Island; Commander, 4th Expeditionary Fleet; Senior Commander, Beithe Joint Homeland Command
SECURITY LEVEL: Confidential, Beta-2

Miss Takatsukasa,

On behalf of the President of the High Council of Beithe, the Honorable Ehrich W. Kemp, I wish to formally extend gratitude for your willingness to assist in this delicate affair. The federal government of Beithe is honored to meet with your representatives.

While we understand your concerns regarding the restoration of order to the Pacific, we must respectfully request that the Imperial Japanese Navy remain outside of Beithe's legal boundaries of 100 nautical miles from the coast. The Allied States of the Isle of Beithe does not wish to engage in military conflict with the Japanese Pacific Empire, and I can assure you that there will be no offensive action against your forces; however, defensive action will be authorized should we perceive a real or potential threat to the security and sovereignty of the Isle of Beithe.

Sincerely,

Kevin A. Wallace, PhD
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Allied States of the Isle of Beithe

[Japan and Pacific States]

The Combined Fleet of the Imperial Japanese Navy, off the coast of Iwo Jima, The Empire of Japanese Pacific States

With the Shogunate firmly intent on intervening in this potential conflict, albeit for the first time in a while with peaceful intent, the IJN was to be the vanguard of this. Peace through Strength, this was a motto that the Imperial Government lived by since the end of the Asia-Pacific War of 1941-45, a war Japan won that cemented itself as a global military and economic power. Admiral Ito Genda had become one of the proponents of many petitions before the Shogun to continue the trend of a favourable naval budget for the IJN, of course at times he'd clash with the Shogun's attack dog. General Kitagou Ayaka of the IJA, however with her busy in Qaidi, and him finally having recovered of being almost fatally wounded by the Qaidi communists. He was the only man for this job while Admiral Rei Nishimura tended to the seas around North Africa.

"Admiral, the Hatakaze is joining with the fleet, bearing the representative of the Shogunate." Captain Ozawa of the IJN Yamato spoke while Admiral Genda watched from the bridge of Yamato out to sea. "Alright, good. Let's hope these westerners are more favourable to attempting to talk of the issue first, instead of shooting. I've been in the line of fire too much." Admiral Genda said while he leaned on his cane, a stray bullet caused him to have a limp in his walk however he still as usual stood strong. "Hopefully the Shogunate won't also get dragged into another war." Admiral Genda whispered under his breath while the 45 strong fleet comprising of modernised Yamato class battleships, Kii class battleships, supported by Shoukaku III Aircraft Carriers, a large group of Destroyers, Katori v Light Cruisers, Fuso V modernised Dreadnaughts, Kongo IX Battlecruisers, and Tone VI Heavy Cruisers.

Japan certainly hoped to nail into the other nations that it was here for peace. ....Though it also wasn't a force to be reckoned with.

[The Isle of Beithe]

OOC: Maps of Beithe's location within the world and of Harvest Island.

[Japan and Pacific States]

Some days later after the Combined Fleet Set sail

Along the way the IJN had picked up the rest of the fleet, ships from the Japanese occupied US territories, Japanese occupied Australia and the central pacific joined with the fleet, increasing the numbers to just over 100 ships, backed up by the sub packs of the Imperial Japanese Navy under the waves, Representative, lieutenant of the Japanese United Nations contingent working closely with the international community had been transferred to the IJN Yamato. As per updated orders, the Combined fleet set sail for the nautical border Beithe held with the Harvest Island sailing around the border, the fleet was quite impressive, with carriers providing air patrol and subs searching below to ensure the Combined Fleet wasn't threatened by anything, or anyone.

Admiral Genda left his quarters for the CIC, then left to the bow of the Yamato where he observed ships in the distance, and Lieutenant Sakaki Chizuru came out, joining the admiral. "Cold isn't it?" She said from behind the admiral of whom turned to face the young Lieutenant. "Yes, indeed. ...However the Atlantic is by far colder... Cold with the spirits of those lost below the waves, trying to reach out." Admiral Genda said before he turned back, looking out to the seas. "Hmm. I suppose." Sakaki said before she turned and left, she'd simply await her time to come with the meeting hoping for a peaceful outcome for both sides involved, Japan at this time was purely neutral simply offering a meeting ground, being the Yamato for a meeting where both sides could possibly come to discuss the independence of Harvest Island.

[The Isle of Beithe]

17 October 2018.

“Standoff at Willowick Naval Base”

Yesterday’s troubles in the Protectorate of Harvest Island continued into the early morning. At approximately 0100, a large group of masked persons—armed with handguns, assault rifles, and even a few machine guns—marched through the streets of Centerville towards Willowick Naval Base, the headquarters of the Beithe Joint Pacific Expeditionary Command.

At the time of the writing of this article, no shots have been fired. The masked demonstrators have remained vigilant in front of the naval base, and thus far their intentions are unknown. Snipers have their sights fixed on the demonstrators from the guard towers surrounding the base, and assault helicopters are patrolling overhead. Inside Willowick Naval Base, the 12th Marine Corps Battalion is on high-alert. Navy and Coast Guard vessels docked at the base have been ordered to sea.

Meanwhile, the city of Centerville and surrounding communities have been placed under martial law, under the authority of Willowick Naval Base’s commanding officer, Vice-Admiral Pauline Harrison. The declaration of marshal law was ordered by the Beithe High Council two hours after the announcement that Harvest Island’s Governor-General, Franklin Simpson, was removed from office. Mr. Simpson left the island late this afternoon, boarding a flight to Capitol City where he will appear before the federal Office of Internal Investigations. Sources within the government have informed The National Herald that Simpson will be investigated for gross misconduct by a government employee, a first-degree felony under the federal code of justice.



“Harvest Island Affair Attracts International Attention”

The situation in Harvest Island has escalated to more than an internal struggle, as it was announced today by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that the government of Beithe has received an offer of aid from the Borman Empire. The Beithe Navy’s 4th Expeditionary Fleet has met with a Borman fleet that had been conducting exercises in the South Pacific.

Tensions in Harvest Island have also caught the attention of the Japanese Pacific Empire. To the surprise of the federal government, the Japanese have offered to send a representative to help mediate discussions between the Harvest Island secessionists and the Beithe federal government. The motives of the Japanese remain unknown, and it has been reported that the Imperial Fleet has been dispatched towards Beithen territorial waters. Foreign Affairs Minister Kevin Wallace has assured National Herald reporters that the Japanese Imperial Fleet has been warned that aggressive actions will not be tolerated and assures us that Beithen citizens need not worry.

---
Willowick Naval Base, Protectorate of Harvest Island.
17 October 2018. 1121.

Vice-Admiral Pauline Harrison stared at the plaque in her office.

“IN MEMORIUM,
LIEUTENANT-COMMANDER ROBERT JAMES WILLOWICK, BN
DIED IN COMBAT WHILE COMMANDER OF THE SUBMARINE BNS SYDNEY (SB-146) IN NORTH PACIFIC CAMPAIGN, SEPTEMBER 12, 1943, AFTER 12-HOUR BATTLE WITH JAPANESE DESTROYER FLOTILLA.
LT. CMDR. WILLOWICK AND CREW OF THE SYNDEY REMEMBERED FOR THEIR HONORABLE SERVICE AND THE SINKING OF 70,000 TONNES DURING WAR WITH JAPANESE EMPIRE.”

As she finished reading the commemoration to her base’s namesake, Vice-Admiral Harrison felt sick to her stomach. She was aware that the approaching Imperial Fleet claimed its intention were peaceful, but she was suspicious. A lifelong student of naval history, she had spent the last three years working on a comprehensive book about the Beithe Navy’s involvement in the Asia-Pacific War of 1941-1945, which she planned to publish upon her retirement in seven months. In the book’s foreword, Harrison wrote of how, though the Beithen surface fleet was considerably inferior to the Japanese and the Beithe Navy lacked a carrier fleet, the brave sailors of the Submarine Service won the war for Beithe. Sure, it was not a complete victory, as the Japanese were largely successful in their colonization, but the Isle of Beithe had been one of the only major Pacific nations to retain its independence. What Vice-Admiral Harrison didn’t write—though she was tempted—was that she had always suspected the Japanese regarded Beithe as “the one that got away.”

“Maybe I’m just paranoid, though,” she’d often told herself.

It was getting late, Harrison realized. She should go to bed, but her mind was racing. Another hour or two spent reviewing personnel transfers, fitness reports, requisition forms, and other dull administrative documents would be the perfect remedy for this insomnia.

[Japan and Pacific States]

The Imperial Japanese Navy Combined Fleet, Flagship Yamato, International waters just near the nautical border, on the deck of the flagship

A small group assembled on the forward deck of the Yamato, Lieutenant Chizuru, dressed in the standard dark grey and blue trimmed suit of the United Nations, just near her were three Tozamas of the Imperial Japanese Royal Guard dressed in their standard white and blue trimmed uniforms, with the Tozamas was a woman, dressed in a uniform much the same like the Tozamas however it was crimson red and purple trimmed, she herself looked quite odd given her.... Unusual and surprisingly natural hair colour atleast, natural to her anyway. This woman was in command of the protection squad that would be overseeing security of the meeting below in the meeting room of the IJN Yamato, if someone was to join the meeting then they'd have to be cleared by these four.

Sakaki stared out to sea and sighed. "Hmm... Perhaps they will be coming tomorrow morning, Major?" Sakaki turned and got a rather stern look from the woman in red and purple, she was a Vassal Retainer of the IJRG, such people were dedicated wholely to the shogun, having to work with a woman like Sakaki was a disgrace. "Yes? Lieutenant?" The Vassal Retainer replied. "I shall be below in my quarters, please inform me when both sides come for the meeting." Sakaki said before she left for below, and the Vassal Retainer simply bowed her head, while the three Tozamas conversed amongst themselves. "Hmm... Or perhaps they're afraid of us... As they should be." The Vassal Retainer said to herself.

日本帝国外務省の公式声明 Official Communique From The Imperial Foreign Ministry of the Empire of Japan To: The Foreign Ministry of the Allied States of the Isle of Beithe, The Foreign Ministry of The Borman Empire, and Whichever organisation on Harvest Island handles Foreign Affairs in the name of the local people. From: The Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Empire of Japanese Pacific States, Imperial Foreign Minister, Head of the 5th Regency House of Takatsukasa, Kyoko Takatsukasa Encryption Level:None The Combined Fleet is ready to hold the negotiations. The place of which they shall be held, is on the IJN Yamato. Lieutenant Sakaki Chizuru shall be mediating from the Japanese UN forces. Security is headed by Major(Vassal Retainer) Mana Tsukuyomi. They shall be waiting whenever everyone is ready. Signed. Imperial Foreign Minister of the Empire of Japanese Pacific States, Head of the 5th Regency House of Takatsukasa, Regent Kyoko Takatsukasa 署名された 日本太平洋帝国外務大臣、第五回高等弁務団長、リージェント高槻恭子

[The Isle of Beithe]

Presidential Mansion, Capitol City, Isle of Beithe.
October 20, 2018. 0930.

President Ehrich Kemp was reluctant towards intervention by the Japanese, but he was willing to concede. Perhaps a neutral party could prove useful in resolving this irritating affair. He ordered Foreign Affairs Minister Kevin Wallace to inform the Japanese that the President would personally attend the negotiations aboard the Yamato. His advisers, including Prime Minister Stephanie Reinholdt, urged him to reconsider. They argued that it was too risky for Beithe’s head of state to board a foreign warship. Kemp was not afraid, though. Besides, should matters take a turn for the worse, Grand Admiral Zimmermann had assured him that the Beithen submarines that had been tailing the Imperial Fleet would see to swift and just retaliation. President Kemp was confident that violence could be avoided, however.


-----


Willowick Naval Base, Protectorate of Harvest Island.
October 20, 2018. 1415.

The Children of the Cause (a.k.a. “The People’s Militia of Harvest Island”) waited patiently outside the gates of Willowick Naval Base, unafraid of the many guns pointed in their direction.

Each of the demonstrators was masked as an animal, following in the tradition of the indigenous peoples of Harvest Island, who had worn the face of their “spirit animal” in combat. Even in the predominantly Roman Catholic culture of the island, traditions such as these remained strong amongst patriotic Harvest Islanders. The leader of the group, the Father of the Cause, masked himself as the harvester falcon, a large predatory bird native only to Harvest Island.

The Father had remained silent despite the attempts of reporters from The National Herald and the Harvest Island Gazette. He was not there to entertain the media’s curiosity and to have his words twisted. He would speak only to the men and women who mattered: Harvest Island’s “mainland masters,” as the Children called them.

Earlier that afternoon, a shaky postman delivered the Father a message from the foreign ministry of the Japanese Pacific Empire. The Father saw the name of the sender and read no farther. To himself, he thought, “I have no time for these foreigners, who have no business meddling in our affairs. Who do they think they are? They’re just as bad as the mainlander government….” He crumbled the letter and tossed it aside.

[Borman Empire]

Admiral Sims watched as the tiny specks grew larger, soon the rotor wash would overtake him as the transports arrived. But not before that young officer did.

“Sir, it seems the Japanese fleet is deploying to the area in order to mediate. Chancellor Licinius passed along a communique indicating they’re sending their entire fleet.”

“I’m sorry, did you say entire fleet?”

“Yes sir, the Combined Fleet of the Imperial Japanese navy.”

“Under the guise of fucking mediation? For Christ’s sake – is this their first time at the rodeo?”

“Well no, Sir, they’ve recent-”

“Rhetorical, you inbred. Fuck the thought of scaring our Beithen friends, bring in the rest of our fleet immediately. Have them rendezvous with us. Phone Rear-Admiral Corks and tell him to move the 23rd Fleet to Beithen northern shores, extending east enough so that they’re north of Harvest Island. Their protectorate is well within their territorial waters, so we won’t enter those. Send the 28th Fleet…or the 27th, I can’t remember who’s closer, to the waters near their other protectorates – slow and steady, no rush with that fleet.”

“Aye Sir, and shall I inform the Imperial Naval Office?”

“Is there any reason you wouldn’t?”

As he scurried away the Gladiator aircraft touched down and the Beithen delegation spilled out. Sims adjusted his uniform and eagerly greeted the five of them, in turn introducing them to the phalanx of naval officers around him. He warmly clapped Ulysses on the back and motioned with his other hand to an open door between two Imperial Marines.

“Admiral, please have your entourage follow me below talk so we can start discussions. I do want to say right off the bat that we will be deploying more vessels to the theater given recent actions by other powers. I want to assure you these vessels are friendly in nature, at least to Beithe.”

----------------------------
Official Imperial Communique:

To: President Ehrich Kemp
From: Chancellor Licinius

President Kemp,

I believe our forces are touching base as we speak. It is a most welcome move toward friendship between our two nations. I want to advise you that given that recent confrontational behavior displayed by the Japanese Empire, we have seen fit to also deploy the 23rd and 27th Fleets to the theater. Both fleets are ultimately under the command of the 35th, so your Admiral will be able to coordinate all necessary actions.

Now, regarding Willowick Naval Base – I don’t know how many men you have inside the walls or how many men are outside the walls. I do know that the 35th Fleet has thousands of Royal Marines; if you’d like, I’d be happy to see to it that any number of them are sent to reinforce your men inside the Naval Base. Please let me know.

Sincerely,

Chancellor Licinius

-------------------------------------------
Official Imperial Communique:

To: Imperial Foreign Minister, Kyoko Takatsukasa
From: Chancellor Licinius
CC: Beithe Minister of Foreign Affairs

I want to make it perfectly clear that the Empire does not care what the Shogunate has authorized; if any hostile actions are taken against any Imperial assets, your entire Combined Fleet will be sank. That is not a threat, but a promise. The bellicose nature of your caveats makes me question what type of mediation you will be engaging in…

Now that the niceties are out of the way, we agree that the instability is cause for concern – hence we would be willing to take part in mediation discussions. Obviously not as a factor with direct skin in the game.

Chancellor Licinius

[Japan and Pacific States]

日本帝国外務省の公式声明 Official Communique From The Imperial Foreign Ministry of the Empire of Japan To: The Foreign Ministry of the Allied States of the Isle of Beithe, The Foreign Ministry of The Borman Empire, and Whichever organisation on Harvest Island handles Foreign Affairs in the name of the local people. From: The Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Empire of Japanese Pacific States, Imperial Foreign Minister, Head of the 5th Regency House of Takatsukasa, Kyoko Takatsukasa Encryption Level:None The Shogunate has no intent to attack anyone. However rest assured we are only attempting to intervene given Harvest Island's location... And the general location of Beithe in general, the location being the pacific. The Shogunate would prefer to ensure if independence is given to Harvest Island, some nonsensical religious nutjob isn't going to threaten Japanese merchant shipping by buying submarines for a yet to be established navy, only to use such weapons to attempt to disrupt the Japanese economy in the Pacific. And so it is in the views of the Shogunate, that it would be best to prevent such issues from arising in the future to take measures for wise leadership of Harvest Island to be established, in place of one fanatical to some western deity. Like this "Father" our intelligence service has uncovered. Signed. Imperial Foreign Minister of the Empire of Japanese Pacific States, Head of the 5th Regency House of Takatsukasa, Regent Kyoko Takatsukasa 署名された 日本太平洋帝国外務大臣、第五回高等弁務団長、リージェント高槻恭子

[The Isle of Beithe]

As the Borman VTOL transported Admiral Ulysses and his entourage, Rear-Admiral McGregory studied recent intelligence reports from a tablet. The report regarding the Japanese Imperial Fleet shocked her, and when she was done reading it, she handed her tablet to Admiral Ulysses. The commander of the 4th Expeditionary Fleet was just as shocked as Rear-Admiral McGregory, but he appeared unafraid.

“Hmph, a foolish maneuver,” Ulysses said. “I’m sure that the Japanese think that they can intimidate us with this show of force, but they’re just making themselves more vulnerable. They will be in easy range of the entire Homeland Command! Our fleet will shortly be in striking distance, as well…. And with the help of our new Borman friends, the Imperial Fleet will be in for a helluva lot more than it had bargained for…”

The admiral turned around in his seat and asked his aide, “Captain Stuttgart,” for his opinion. “Sir,” the undercover CSS agent replied, “I do believe you’re correct in your analysis of the situation. The Imperial Fleet is sailing straight into the hot zone. It’s curious, though, why they would send such a large formation of warships if their intentions are as peaceful as they’d claimed in their official communique.” Stuttgart made a mental note to see to it that a CSS analyst prepare a comprehensive report.

…


Admiral Ulysses was pleased with his impression of Admiral Sims as the two flag officers met aboard the Borman flagship. He greeted his foreign counterpart with a genuine smile and strong handshake.

When informed by Admiral Sims that the Borman Empire would be sending more ships in response to the Japanese Empire’s presence, Ulysses responded with affirmation that a force increase was prudent under the circumstances. “I’d like to believe that their intentions are as benign as they’d claimed, but we cannot deny that their actions are suspicious, and we cannot take any chances.”

Once below deck and seated, Admiral Ulysses deferred to Rear-Admiral McGregory. McGregory shared her intelligence reports with Admiral Sims regarding both the Japanese Imperial Fleet and the situation on the ground in Harvest Island. One report included a description of the secessionist faction that went by the name “The Children of the Cause” and whose militia branch described themselves as the “People’s Militia of Harvest Island.” The information was limited, unfortunately. Though the Beithe Central Security Service had been keeping tabs on the group for years, they had been regarded as relatively harmless and a low priority given the CSS’s surveillance of larger political terrorist groups operating within the Beithe mainland. It was known that the “Children” practiced a bizarre religion that was a mix of Tridentine Roman Catholicism and the indigenous religions of Harvest Island. Aside from their desire for complete independence from the Isle of Beithe, not much was known about their political views; they seemed to be centrist, albeit right-leaning. Sometime around 2015, the Children were believed to begin hoarding firearms and small explosive devices. There were suspicions that the Children had moles working not only within the Harvest Island government but Beithe’s federal government, as well. The report ended with a single sentence that alluded to a verbal confrontation between Harvest Island Governor-General Franklin Simpson and the group’s leader, “The Father of the Cause,” approximately two months ago.

When McGregory finished reading from her tablet, she looked up at Admiral Sims and asked, “So, what’s your take on all of this, sir?”

[The Isle of Beithe]

TO: Chancellor Licinius of the Borman Empire
FROM: Ehrich W. Kemp, President of the High Council of Beithe
CC: Kevin A. Wallace, Beithe Minister of Foreign Affairs; Chairman, Beithe Joint Chiefs of Staff; Senior Commander, Beithe Joint Pacific Expeditionary Command
SECURITY LEVEL: Top Secret, Alpha-1
SUBJECT: Japanese Imperial Fleet

Chancellor,

I sincerely thank you for your support in this matter. We are happy to welcome the aid of your armed forces, and I will soon meet with my Joint Chiefs of Staff to discuss strategies regarding both the Japanese Imperial Fleet and the situation in Harvest Island.

I hereby authorize the Borman Fleet to enter Beithen territorial waters.

Sincerely,

Ehrich W. Kemp, JD
President of the High Council of the Allied States of the Isle of Beithe
Director of the Beithe National Party

TO: Borman Foreign Affairs Ministry, Japanese Pacific Empire Foreign Affairs Ministry
FROM: Ehrich W. Kemp, President of the High Council of Beithe
CC: Kevin A. Wallace, Beithe Minister of Foreign Affairs
SECURITY LEVEL: Secret, Beta-1
SUBJECT: Harvest Island Affair


Esteemed colleagues,

The Harvest Island situation is a delicate matter. It represents a severe threat to the internal security of the Allied States of the Isle of Beithe, in addition to a threat to the stability of the entire South Pacific region. I believe it is prudent for us to remember who the enemy is. Let us meet and discuss this matter diplomatically.

To the Shogunate of the Japanese Pacific Empire, I await a formal date and time for us to begin deliberations.

Best regards,

Ehrich W. Kemp, JD
President of the High Council of the Allied States of the Isle of Beithe
Director of the Beithe National Party

[Zanjizuba]

[Tag-city, USA]

[The Isle of Beithe]

Laurence MacMahon National Forest, 15 miles outside of the Village of Zion, Glasgow, Beithe
18 October 2018. 1130.

After reading the reports of the situation in Harvest Island, Father Mitchell Robertson, the High Priest of the Village of Zion, knew that he must consult with one of the prophets.

Brother Daniel had known the High Priest would be coming. When Fr. Robertson entered Daniel’s shack, Daniel smiled warmly and said, “The troubles in the protectorate island are surely one of the signs, Father!”

Outwardly, the alleged prophet was not what one would expect from a religious fanatic claiming to see into the future and who lived alone in a near-dilapidated shack in the middle of a rain forest. Brother Daniel was clean-shaven and handsome, a young man in his mid-20s. He did not wear a robe or any sort of religious habiliment; he dressed in clean blue jeans and a collared flannel shirt.

“Tell me, Brother,” Fr. Robertson pleaded, “just what level of sign is it? Is it time to retreat to the bunkers?”

Brother Daniel smiled again at the High Priest and rose from his chair. He went to the shack’s only window and stared into the wilderness for seven minutes. Fr. Robertson waited patiently.

“No, I am afraid it is not yet time, Father,” the prophet said as he continued to stare out of the window. “But we must reach out to our brothers on the island. They have a vital role in the coming apocalypse, though they do not yet realize it. They seek freedom for themselves, but they do not understand that they are, in fact, seeking freedom for the world…”

The High Priest of Zion nodded. He did not need to ask Brother Daniel questions, for he knew already what the prophet implied. Brother Harmon had spoken of this event three decades ago when Fr. Robertson was a lowly initiate.

[Stoklomolvi]

[OOC: Zanjizuba, just save the thread... or make a fancy message like I am to tag.]

REFERENCE:

18 OCTOBER 2018

 
Encryption: Unencrypted
To: Ehrich W. Kemp
Office of the President, High Council of Beithe
1 Federal Avenue
Federal District
Capitol City, State of Capitol City, Southern District, Beithe 297-340
cc. all related parties
Subject: Situation in Harvest Island

It has come to the attention of the Stoklomolvi Liaoist Federation that an independence movement is underway, and according to confidential sources, Governor-General Franklin Simpson ordered a disproportionate response to the protest of the citizens of Harvest Island. The National Herald, a news provider in Beithe, also wrote an article on the incident, corroborating with the information we had received earlier. It is disgraceful for a man who is designated a protector of his people to betray their trust and slaughter them, and it is even more disgraceful for a government to consider protecting such a man. However, the internal affairs of the state of Beithe are that; strictly their internal affairs. It is not the place of the Stoklomolvi government to meddle in the situation between the Harvest Islanders and the legitimate government of Beithe.

All considered, one cannot turn a blind eye to the crimes of Governor-General Franklin Simpson. The Stoklomolvi Liaoist Federation, on behalf of the international community that agrees with the prior statement, hereby officially indicts Franklin Simpson for the crimes against humanity that he has committed. The Stoklomolvi government urges the Beithen government to formally discharge Mr Simpson of whatever positions and titles he may hold, and extradite him to the Stoklomolvi Liaoist Federation for interrogation and court proceedings. Refusal to release Mr Simpson to the custody of the Stoklomolvi government will not be taken kindly and will be seen as signs of greater non-cooperation.

As for the current incident between the Japanese Pacific Empire and the Borman Empire, the Stoklomolvi Liaoist Federation urges both parties to exercise caution and avoid escalating further conflict. Needless human casualties in this delicate situation would be detrimental to the future of humankind.

[The Isle of Beithe]

TO: Sergei Mikhailovich, Commissar of Foreign Affairs, Stoklomolvi Liaoist Federation
FROM: Ehrich W. Kemp, President of the High Council of Beithe
CC: Kevin A. Wallace, Beithe Minister of Foreign Affairs; Edgar H. Brown, Beithe Minister of Justice; Stephanie M. Reinholdt, Prime Minister of Beithe
SECURITY LEVEL: Confidential, Alpha-2
SUBJECT: Re: Situation in Harvest Island

Mr. Mikhailovich and esteemed colleagues of the Stoklomolvi Liaoist Federation,

The government of the Allied States of the Isle of Beithe shares in your disturbance over the actions of Harvest Island Governor-General Franklin Simpson. We wish to inform you that Mr. Simpson has been summarily relieved of his duties and recalled to the Beithen mainland where he will be investigated by our Federal Bureau of Internal Administration. Pending charges have been filed for "Gross Misconduct by a Government Employee," which is a first-degree felony under Beithe's federal code.

It is impractical for us to release Mr. Simpson into your custody at this time and such action would not only be in violation of the Constitution of Beithe but could be perceived by our citizens as a direct assault on our nation's sovereignty. However, given your concern over this matter, we welcome the Stoklomolvi Liaoist Federation to send delegates to Beithe to serve as independent investigators in this affair.

Best regards,

Ehrich W. Kemp, JD
President of the High Council of Beithe
Director of the National Party

[Stoklomolvi]

REFERENCE:

18 OCTOBER 2018

 
Security: Classified (encrypted)
To: Ehrich W Kemp
Office of the President, High Council of Beithe
1 Federal Avenue
Federal District
Capitol City, State of Capitol City, Southern District, Beithe 297-340
cc. all related parties
Subject: RE: Situation in Harvest Island

The Stoklomolvi Liaoist Federation acknowledges and applauds the actions that Beithe has taken against Franklin Simpson. At this time, the Stoklomolvi government will rescind its request for extradition, as the Beithen government has demonstrated willingness to cooperate. The first line of inquiry of the Stoklomolvi government will be to examine the connections that Mr Simpson may have had, and seek out those who have had a hand in the killings. The Stoklomolvi government wholeheartedly accepts the invitation to send independent investigators and will prepare a delegation of detectives to the Beithen region.

Due to the ongoing conflict, the transportation method will be by ship and the convoy will be escorted by the People's Liberation Army Navy. The Stoklomolvi Liaoist Federation assures the Beithen government of its peaceful intentions and would like to assuage any alarm that the people of Beithe may have towards armed escort vessels. Documents concerning the escort fleet have been sent to the relevant parties, including you, President Ehrich W Kemp.

[The Isle of Beithe]

TO: Sergei Mikhailovich, Commissar of Foreign Affairs, Stoklomolvi Liaoist Federation
FROM: Ehrich W. Kemp, President of the High Council of Beithe
CC: Kevin A. Wallace, Beithe Minister of Foreign Affairs; Edgar H. Brown, Beithe Minister of Justice; Stephanie M. Reinholdt, Prime Minister of Beithe; Senior Commander, Beithe Joint Homeland Command; Beithe Federal Supreme Court
SECURITY LEVEL: Top Secret, Alpha-1
SUBJECT: Re: Situation in Harvest Island

Mr. Mikhailovich and esteemed colleagues of the Stoklomolvi Liaoist Federation,

We appreciate your understanding and thank you for your willingness to assist in this affair.

The Beithe Navy and Coast Guard have been informed of your pending arrival and will ensure that your delegates arrive safely. Once your ships are within Beithen territorial waters, we will dispatch airborne transport to escort your delegates to Capitol City. The investigators from our Federal Bureau of Internal Administration have also been notified. A motion of discovery has been filed on your behalf, and pending court approval, we will make available to you all evidence collected regarding Mr. Simpson's actions. If you require any additional services, please do not hesitate to let me know.

Best regards,

Ehrich W. Kemp, JD
President of the High Council of Beithe
Director of the National Party

[The Isle of Beithe]

OOC: Spin-off thread -- viewtopic.php?f=5&t=452186