Freedom From Fear (ATTN Conglomerate, ODECON)

[Leistung]

Official Communiqué of the Oceanic Defense Coalition

To: [Open]
From: Office of the President of ODECON
Subj: Making the seas safe for liberty

ODECON has been effectively dormant for the better part of the past year. Our hope, our dream for a more just, free world lies unfulfilled while our constituents sleep peacefully in their beds. Rather than function as an instrument which liberty wields, ODECON has likewise slept while the monstrous organization known as the Conglomerate has proceeded to perpetrate on the world more injustices and heinous deeds than would be readily countable. We will try, for the benefit of those reading this statement to list:

1. Members of the organization have used nuclear arms indiscriminately and without just cause to obliterate nations that have insulted them.

2. Members of the organization have overtly provoked response from ODECON members in the past, sailing slave ships in the immediate vicinity of ODECON allies. For this, ODECON resolves to immediately dissolve the pact which previously prevented the outbreak of hostilities between our two groups.

3. Members of the organization have waged wars of aggression against their global neighbors.

4. In many, nearing almost all cases, members of the organization have allowed the deplorable practice of the slave trade to go unregulated.

5. In many, nearing almost all cases, members of the organization have allowed slavery in general to continue in their nations, representing a clear and obvious transgression against basic human rights.

We ask of the world now -- what exactly is the purpose of our freedom if it is not used to better the lives of others? If we leave the world in the state in which we left it, we contribute neither to history nor to the eventual goal of liberty.

And while diplomacy has its place (and it is a place still held sacrosanct), there come occasional instances in our time when we must undertake a more forceful course of action. It is the opinion of ODECON and of its leaders that with the culmination of every injustice perpetrated by the Conglomerate taken into account, one of those instances has arisen.

For liberty is not an ideal which is defended only by the words of those too lame to take up arms. Liberty is a great battleship, and we are her crew.

And if we cannot achieve all that we hope to, at the very least we might give some measure of hope to those peoples of the world oppressed, bound, or otherwise stripped of essential liberty. Courage is infectious, and by our own deeds, we stiffen the spines of others.

It is therefore, that with all possible outcomes considered, ODECON does declare that as of midnight on April 10th, a state of conflict does exist between the nations of the Coalition and of the Conglomerate. Moreover, any and all vessels of the latter group found to be transporting slaves and/or human chattel under the flag of a Conglomerate nation have henceforth waived their rights to prisoner-of-war conventions.

It is not without a heavy heart that ODECON resolves to this course of action, but to secure the seas, and indeed the world from injustice, we hold in our hearts the utmost resolve. We will not back down until the Conglomerate is in a position to never again threaten the rights of man, the sovereignty of nations, and the tenets of liberty and humanity.

Very sincerely,


Evan Bachmeier
President of the Coalition

OOC: You guys probably know where to find me if you have any questions, but if not -- #ODECON.

[Greenlandic People]

Official Communique from The Federal Republic of Greenland

To: All Nations
From: President Wismark Schmitz, Federal Republic of Greenland
Re: ODECON call to arms

It has always been considered a solemn duty of this humble republic to protect and preserve the liberty of humanity across the world. We do not endeavor to do this out of greed, or self interest, but because a trespass against one peoples is a trespass against all peoples, regardless of their creed, their race, or their nationhood. The almighty Gods decree that liberty is the right of all humans, and it is the right of all humans to defend it.

Not only do we have a right to act in defense of human liberty, but a duty as well. we cannot be so shallow, or so naive as to think that the oppression of one peoples is not, in its own way, an oppression of our own peoples as well. The enslavement and oppression of fellow human kindred is an act irreconcilable with basic human liberty, it is an atrocity that cannot be condoned or ignored; and let it be known, we shall not condone it!

Therefore, in accordance with the summons from the ODECON Multilateral Authority, the Greenlandic High Senate and the Thing has approved, by an overwhelming majority, to begin immediate plans for military action against all Conglomerate vessels involved in the trafficking of enslaved persons, and pledges the full cooperation of all of her assets with further ODECON directives that should be laid forth. Our arms are barred and we shall not stay them from the wicked. The Gods command nothing less.

Hail,
Wismark Schmitz
President of the Federal Republic of Greenland

[Zoingo]

To: [Open]
Subject:Re: Making the seas safe for liberty
Encryption: Nil

On Behalf of Her Majesty's Government,

Rarely in the history of ODECON has the alliance ever faced the task, as a unified force, to brandish the sword and shield to defend the liberty of people and the freedom of democratic nations from vile and odious regimes and uncivilized alliances. While the world finally breathed a sigh of relief as ODECON's most climatic struggle against these regimes ended close to a year ago, it seems as though enough evil has bread quietly and more slowly elsewhere in the world. This evil threatened to destroy much of the dénouement resulting from this era, and bring in an entire new chapter of conflict and confrontation.

It is now hard to distinguish any good qualities that may have once existed in the start of the alliance known as the Conglomerate, for they have now been tainted and overtaken by a list of atrocities and violations of humanity and decency. To ignore this growing problem any longer (the Conglomerate), would allow evil and tyranny to send the world into a down-spiral and spread these horrendous crimes worldwide. This is where the line in the sand is drawn, diplomacy has waited and waited for answers...and it has received none, action shall now take the reigns.

By the decree of the States-General in a 287-31-17 vote in affirmative within the Chamber of Lords, and with the signature from the desk of the Prime Minister of the Commonwealth. Zoingo hearby affirms its support of the ODECON Multilateral Authority, President Bachmeier, and the Declaration announce on April 10th at midnight. The Prime Minister will immediately authorize action against all Conglomerate vessels and merchant vessles involved in the trafficking of enslaved persons, and pledges the full cooperation with further ODECON directives that should be laid forth. The path has been laid out, the course is set, there shall be no turning back.

To the Conglomerate: Que Sera Sera, and may God have Mercy on your wretched souls.

Signed,

Prime Minister Lexis Deboi
Lord Speaker Alfred Dunmore
Sealed and Approved by Her Majesty Queen Anastasia

[Salzland]

Official Statement

Mistake.

It is in the nature of human beings to err, to stray from the path from time to time, as countless choices are made every day. Some are small, influencing individuals for only the briefest instants as they go about their daily lives. Others have the capacity to alter the fate of nations, or in rare instances the face of the entire world. Great powers rise, and fall, based merely on the ripples spread by a single mistake.

On this day, a mistake of the highest order has been rectified. For too long, the Oceanic Defense Coalition made the mistake of trusting the word of an assortment of authoritarian states, who spoke of desires for peace and global stability. In the interests of securing a peace in our time, the Armed Republic and its fellows deceived themselves into overlooking the heinous crimes of the entity known to the world as the Conglomerate.

Genocide. Unprovoked nuclear strikes. Extortion. Slavery. Terrorism. The list of crimes perpetrated and sanctioned by the members of the Conglomerate on the broader international community stretch far beyond the Armed Republic's capacity to list them. In recognizing those crimes for what they are, dastardly attempts at spreading the might and influence of the Conglomerate by bayonet-point, the Armed Republic must own up to its own responsibility in the matter. We have, up until this point, enabled those very actions by maintaining a Non-Aggression Pact with the Conglomerate, shielding them from the strongest voices of dissent, the very nations that could act to put their crimes to an end once and for all. By placing selfish desires for peace above the good of the international community, we have permitted an intolerable situation to endure for far too long.

It is well past time for a false peace agreement, written in the blood of untold innocents, to end.

No longer is the Armed Republic willing to sit by and allow others to bear the costs of freedom, as they bravely stand against the night. Along with our brothers and sisters in the Oceanic Defense Coalition, we stand united with those nations who have paid and are still paying the ultimate price for resisting the whims of tyrants. We, too, are prepared to pay our share of the price to end the barbarities imposed on the world by the Conglomerate.

To those friends who stand with us, the Armed Republic of Salzland offers its gratitude. Though we find ourselves once more thrust on the path to war by the whims of genocidal madmen, we will stand resolute against the tides of barbarism that confront us. We fight for a dream, for a world where all mankind has the right to stand or fall on their own merits, rather than at the behest of those with the sharpest swords. We fight for a world where the act of sentencing entire nations to extermination is universally rejected and combated. We fight so that future generations will not pay the price of our apathy.

To those who stand against us, know that the Armed Republic will conduct itself as it always has, with honor and integrity. Do not, however, mistake those virtues for weakness. Our cause is just, our forces marshalled, and our will unwavering.

To those nations of the world who may yet find themselves involved in this conflict, we ask that you consider the following question. Will you stand for the "right" to wipe out untold billions for little more than sport, or will you stand against the hordes of barbarism attempting to tighten their grasp on the throat of Liberty, extinguishing it once and for all? It is our fervent belief that the inherent benevolence of man will triumph, and that our foes will be defeated. Until such time as this conflict draws to a close, the thoughts and prayers of our nation go with our armed forces, and those of our allies, as they do battle with our foes.

May God continue to Bless and Protect the Armed Republic.

[Jenrak]

There is no word to describe
this feeling,
but only closeness,
and Wretchedness is the closest of all.

Words were spread that there is a transgression of betrayal wallowing through an old friend's halls. These words were talking of ODECON, the Oceanic Defense Coalition, and their decision to tear apart the weak but hard worked non-aggression that has existed between the two organisations for these few short terms. My intentions are as heartfelt and steadfast as they were when Nahk Territurari, the Overarch of Rephalim, signed it: that between these two entities, the firing of bullets were only fantasies. Nahk and I have done everything I could, in accordance to the treaty and with cooperation with others, to ensure that the clauses were uphold. Law was final, and disciplines heartfelt. Our words spoke strongly to even attempt Brewdomian aggression in the Blackhelm Confederacy campaign. Because of us, there was peace.

While tensions certainly rose and fell, always with the tempered sword of truth and the quip of inks we have kept at bay the escalations of inevitable war. We have always done everything to our ability to stay on our course and maintain our well being and the well being of ODECON. Was my trust misplaced, and my ideals simply naivety? I do not know, but right now, I hear screams and echoes down my silver halls. There are people who speak to me and suggest the simplest things: that my beliefs were betrayed by others. So, this is all it takes? All that it has become, an escalation once more, but this time, an effortless division? Were it so easy that people could, at the whim of a few thoughts and the slip of a finger, tear apart the hard effort placed between both organisations?

Had I been lied to all this time? Betrayed after all this effort? You hurt me, dear ODECON. My heart is pained, and my chest is a lit with sorrow.

How can I trust anything anymore? I believed in you. I had faith in you. I trusted you, and I loved you without question. My own kin called me crazy and emotional, unbelieving and too trusting, but I had the most heartfelt belief that you respected what we stood for, and in return I had respect in what you stood for. It was a mutual trust between civilized beings. It was a law that would have surely, with only a little effort, lasted for a millennium. I had the truest faith, and here, on the whims of a few little things, you had torn it apart. Our relationship - gone.

I understood that it would eventually come to this, but not so soon. Not so suddenly. Not like this, as a bang and an effortless decision. It seems I was played for the fool.

That as you sit upon your high-horse, you failed to tell us of the issues upon which you spout with such pomposity. You made no effort - and my secretaries can certainly provide evidence of your complacency - to note us of our practices. You made no decision to try and have us work together with all reason and forward-thinking mindfulness. You have made no effort to address to us with earnest change or suggestion. You have made no effort to try and notify us of problems that exist. You have made no mentions of members who you may have problems with. None.

So I have guessed that perhaps, at the end of all this, you spout your moral greatness, while your decision to tear apart our trust was simply a front of slavery to a more ulterior motive? For all your talk of highness and levels, the one who has declared hostilities was not the monstrous Conglomerate as you claim with great indignation, but you. It is the Oceanic Defense Coalition. The one who fires the bullet is the so-called hero to this story.

There must be something wrong. Something corrupting within you, that as the breaches of power seep into your souls, you begin to make way to a frailty of human greed. The greed of competition or elitism. That we speak of only as equals and brotherhood where you speak of lowliness and single-mindedness. Where I speak of diplomacy and well-being in response to your talk of aggressions and hostilities. I have given ODECON an olive branch once, and it was not cheap. It is a prized and valued thing, so with words, I ask of you this one thing.

Would you call off this hostility, and renew our friendship, my dears, once more? That perhaps wrongdoings can be avoided and countless lives lost and money left well spent? We are above animals, surely, so we can keep this civility, and through the empathy of words and well-being, we can work to open a new chapter in a more peaceful world?

Yours truly,
Most Loyal and Beautiful,
of Ackthal, the Father, and Enkur, the Brother,
Sephilia Tezekilth,
Queen of the Amalgamate.

[Castleclose]

To: Representatives of ODECON, The Conglomerate.
From: Closian Foreign Ministry
RE: Recent Aggression.
Encryption: -1 (Civilian)

To Whom it may Concern.

I write to you regarding my concerns for this war. Most specifically how this war will affect our Region. Two nations reside within our Region that will be directly affected by your conflict.

These nations are Saurea and New Chalcedon. Both nations occupy rather important standings in the views of the region and both contain the powers to cause great disaster within our region which has only just recently come out of the most terrible war we have seen.

So I am asking you politely to please consider a more peaceful solution to this conflict before this becomes disastrous.

[Leistung]

Official Communiqué of the Oceanic Defense Coalition

To: [Open]
From: Office of the President of ODECON
Subj: Re:Re:Making the seas safe for liberty

The Coalition acknowledges that the state of affairs between ODECON and the Conglomerate in past months may make our declaration seem rather sudden, but we are of the mind that this is due to a mistake on our own part for forming the agreement rather than because ODECON ever expressed any support for the actions of Conglomerate members.

ODECON members have voiced increasing concern over the actions of Conglomerate members, most notably Brewdomia. Leistung offered harsh criticism of that nation's actions in the nuclear genocide of an arbitrary target, and sharp criticism of the slave trade, to which many Conglomerate nations subscribe, has been ongoing. To think that ODECON has been silent to the actions of Conglomerate nations entirely would be foolish indeed.

In the end, however, that point matters little. ODECON made a grave error in signing an agreement with the Conglomerate, and today seeks to rectify it. It cast its lot with slavers and murderers, and today, it frees itself of their shackles.

The fact that the world is more peaceful matters little if that peace prevents progress and freedom; while ODECON attempts to find peaceful solutions in all things, demanding that the Conglomerate disband in peaceful forums would be overly optimistic at best, and idiotic at worst. For this reason ODECON must reject the overture by Jenrak. Perhaps if by reaching a peace we could find some solace for the millions killed at the hands of Brewdomia, or the millions more at the hands of Ralkovia, or the perhaps billions enslaved by the superstate at large, then we would be more inclined to listen to you. However, as this does not seem to be the case, we must continue unabated.

Sincerely,


Evan Bachmeier
President of the Coalition

[Oseato]

To: [OPEN MISSIVE]| From: Office of the Consul of the Oseaton Federasie | Sub: Liberation of the Sea | Encryption: None

The people of Oseato are frankly fed up with the actions perpetrated by member states of The Conglomerate and thus, in accordance with the official declaration by President Bachmeier and the support of the Senaat, I have ordered the Minister of Defense and by extension the entire High Command of the Gewapende Magte van Oseato to prepare themselves to strike out against this evil. For far too long this collective tyrant that is The Conglomerate has allowed the states that comprise it to openly flaunt their genocidal tendencies and policies without any repercussions. The world stage has frankly seen enough.

It is a gross miscarriage of justice that this organization has completely escaped the ire of the world community and has even been allowed to associate itself with ODECON through the original non-aggression pact. However, today, and in the coming days, weeks, however long it may take, we shall bring an end to this reign of terror and restore order and freedom to the seas so that all may prosper without the threat of enslavement or nuclear annihilation at the hands of these states that flaunt their status as Conglomerate members. The time has come for liberty to reestablish itself as the rightful owner of the seas.

With Sincerity,

Andrea Colton
Consul of the Oseaton Federasie

[The Wolf Hold]

((OOC: placeholder for yay, we started this post ))

[No endorse]

Message transmitted as per the NationStates Ordinances of 20ZZ, superseding the Jolt Ordinances of 20XX and 20YY as per relevant international treaties and documents, as well as concerned World Assembly articles. Transmitted this eleventh day of April, in the one hundred seventy ninth year since the commencement of the second voyage of HMS Beagle.

Salutations Brothers and Sisters of the International Community!

In the course of natural events, those nations which seek similar goals shall find that their interests are best represented when banded together. These conglomerations of the various segments of the greater Human whole act semi-independently for their own perceived interest. As can readily be observed, conflicts arise to ensure the continued socio-genetic advancement of the human species and prevent stagnation. These events are to be neither loathed nor embraced; but to be merely acknowledged as the outgrowth of existence. They are as air itself; necessary yet unexceptional. However, among such unexceptional incidents, there exists some number worthy of investigation to any actor. Nations must necessarily seek to preserve the sanctity of their band, and ensure or improve their continuing status on the world stage. Any less is unconscionable, anti-life, and anti-Human.

Relevant actions have been and will be noted. Concerned parties are to be forewarned that appropriate measures shall be taken to preserve the strategic assets of those states deemed important to the Glorious Military Junta.

In Darwin, In Mendel,
-Jeanette Vickers, Prime Ministress of No Endorse, Arch-Leader of the Glorious Military Junta, ex-Director of Executive Services, etc etc etc.

[Jenrak]

A modest letter to those in administration,
of the organisation known as ODECON,
with love from the servant
of Enkur, the God.

So an organisation that sits on its laurels against the slew of murderers and slavers will not hesitate to murder? Even when given the chance to talk things out? The hypocrisy is delicious. I crave for more. But sadly, I must do what I can with what I have. The situation in the Amalgamate is similar to the Conglomerate - some do not wish to fight, but rather reach this peacefully. Yet ODECON is so brash to call us a hivemind of murderers and slavers when some of its members are involved in the WASO anti-slavery movement. ODECON is so willing to label us all as slavers when I have specifically stated that slavery is frowned upon in the Amalgamate. ODECON is so quick to label us as erratic when we have not fired a single shot against the Gibetians. ODECON is so steadfast in laying down their hammer upon the Conglomerate that they are willing to ignore the IASEN, the CoNS, the Hardenburghs and a bevy of other organisations.

Even as the Gothic War Machine marches against Sharfgotten forces, ODECON turns their over-inflated egos and drone-like attention spans towards the Conglomerate. It is not justice at all. There is no justice - just an elitism. A belief that you are able to destroy the Conglomerate. This is not justice. There is no justice in this. It is simply a barbaric power-grab under the guise of a white knight's rhetoric. Then, I will speak in rhetoric as well.

The Conglomerate will respond to these hostilities with equal justice that is alloted our right by sovereignty. If one is willing to act as a policeman, a tyrant of their own against our own will, culture and beliefs, then let it be so. We are as we will be, and so thus the world speaks in the language of chaos, we have brought order to our kin. Just as those around it, we seek to maintain our well-being. It is logical that the beginning of a nation's form is its self-preservation. You have spoken ill of my brethren, making them seem to be backwards and crude. I cannot let that be done. Our self-concept is our own make.

I apologise, and most definitely I do, but if there is no alternative, then the path is clear. Such as it is. Protocol 01 has been initiated. We are here to preserve ourself, and should it need to be done, our self-preservation may revolve around ODECON's destruction. I make no promises, my former friends. I only do what I must, and as merciless as God is, I will surely show you some.

Hahrathruum Sel Duriaum, Sa Saravorn Sentarum Hahrab.

Blessed be all sons and daughters under God's grace.

Yours truly,
Most Loyal and Beautiful,
of Ackthal, the Father, and Enkur, the Brother,
Sephilia Tezekilth,
Queen of the Amalgamate.

[Amazonian Beasts]

Republic Warrant

Another pathetic, whiny dog scampers at the heels of attention. Why Conglomerate affairs give in to this attention seeking is beyond Republic comprehension, but war is too often the first resort of nations in desperate need of recognition.

The Republic dictates this...

Conglomerate militaries and/or civilian affairs shall have full access to Republic markets should they require resources. Additionally, Amazonian harbors - whether in the Novan region or in geographical Oceana, shall also be available as safe ports of haven for Conglomerate forces and civilian assemblies. That being said, the Amazonian military will not engage in military maneuvers, and should any be forced upon it, will drop so many strategic nuclear warheads that the resulting nuclear winter will drown out the sun for a century.

Keep this short-sighted scuffle away from Republic eyes, lest you set off something larger than you know.

-Sekhmet
Executor, the Imperial Triad

[Ustio North]

It was a cold and snowy day - as ever - in Ustio. The howl of the wind matched only by the tromp of jackbooted feet marching along the frozen ground, the roar of diesel engines, the sound of shouting and orders being barked as hundreds of soldiers fell into position in Artorious Square, the headquarters of the Risen Empire. Along the sidelines, and upon high walls and buildings, numberless civillians stood and watched, waving little imperial flags, taking photographs and some sobbing into hankies as their proud soldiers marched into position. Finally, one sound drowned out the howling wind completely;

"ATTEN-SHUN!" came the order, bellowed as loud as the Commissar could should. This was followed by the simultanous shouldering of weapons and stamping of feet as they looked up to the steps of The Tower. Not called The Tower for nothing, the immense stone building loomed over the square, making the soldiers look like tiny ants in comparison. On the ground, silence fell. Even the weather seemed to have taken the hint that quiet was required at this time. Only hushed whispers could be heard, as most waited with bated breath for the man himself.

From inside the darkened entrance to the building, a lone figure, clad in white military dress uniform with a long overcoat over it, stepped into the light. Normally, at this point, the crowds would go wild, cheering, taking photos and - on occasion - throwing their undergarments at him. Which was quite odd for a bald man of 53 whose only claim to fame was having led a failing democracy into a new age as a thriving empire. Yet on this day, they simply regarded the man, partially with awe, partially with repect. He walked slowly down the stone steps to the podium before him, taking each step as if it was painful, his face wracked with concern. Upon reaching it, he placed both hands upon it, bowing his head slightly as he leaned against the podium. Although the microphones upon it were turned off at the moment, it was not hard to see the man had laboured breathing, and seemed - at a glance - to be on the brink of death itself.

The silence continued as the bald man stood there, head bowed, doing nothing else. Some citizens had followed his lead, believing he was offering a prayer to the Gods themselves. Others simply watched. Time continued to pass, and still nothing. And then, as the chiming of the clock struck twelve, the balding head rose, revealing a weathered and aged face, eyes worn and wrinkled. This was the saviour of a dying nation? This was the leader of the Risen Empire? To an outsider, it would seem impossible. But looks were decieving, and the man at the podium knew this all too well. He had built his entire reputation, his entire empire on this philosophy.

He looked out at the crowd. The soldiers, ever loyal. The citizens, ever obedient. And then out at the world. Ever forgetful. Quick to foget the plight of the Old Republic. Well, now they would remember. Now, the Risen Empire had been called upon by those who did not forget. Taking a deep breath in, he flicked the microphone on and spoke

"My people" he began "My sons, my daughters, my brothers and sisters. We stand now at the edge of an age. An age of freedom. And age of myth and an age of legends coming alive. We, my friends, are one of those legends. We were once on the brink of death, almost murdered by the socialism of the masses!"

He looked around, almost accusingly, at members of the crowd. They remained silent

"But we survived. We weathered that storm, and I tell you now, we will weather any storm, so long as we stick together! And now, friends call upon us to help hold off the hordes of the unenlightened who would seek to end this age of legends, and live in a world where the only way is their way. I tell you now, my family, that we will not stand for it. No. Not ever will we brook a threat to our friends and allies, just as we would not brook one to ourselves. We shall stand with them in their hour of need. We stand strong. We stand proud. Despite offers of peace, the oppressive Oceanic Defence Coalition still believes they can win a war against the might of The Conglomerate and her allies. They live in false hope, brothers! It is by the strength in our arm, the courage and the will to win that we can - no, we will succeed! Even now, those who opposed this movement are seeing the light. They are being given new insight into this cause. The entire Empire is behind our friends who call for aid. Now, dear brothers, we answer their call"

Overhead, jets roared by and helicopter gunships thundered past, but the man continued unabated

"It is my solemn duty to inform you, the people of my beloved nation, that hostilities between members of the Oceanic Defence Coalition and The Risen Empire are now in effect. Any citizen holding a passport to ODECON nations and her allies will be recieving special visits to check the 'validity' of their citizenship. Remember, if you have nothing to hide, then you have nothing to fear."

One final time, he looked around at the crowd. A military band was now standing by, awaiting him to dismiss the troops. Yet he continued one final time;

"Ladies, Gentlemen - I take my leave of you now. Know that you go with God, with the people of this nation praying for you and wishing you well. And know that if you die, you die with honour, for the most glorious of causes; Freedom"

"My people, now is a time for heroes, for legends. Go forth...and become those legends"

The military band struck up as the man stepped away from the podium, walking painfully back up the steps and into The Tower as the crowd cheered and the soldiers began to march. Inside, the commotion was dimmed, but not blocked out completely, and the man walked into a darkened room and bowed before a person in the shadows

"It is done, my lord" the man said, lifting his head up "It is done"

"Good work, Seneschal" came the voice from the shadows "Now, it begins"

[Azazia]

Regenshavn, Oceanian Atrea
United Kingdom

"I just don't understand why you have to go." Louise Carpenter sobbed. She sat at the edge of a bed, dressed in comfortable slacks and a loose-fitting blouse that aimed to hide her three-month-old pregnancy. "It's just…we're not involved, right? You're not going to war, right?"

A buzz-cut man wearing the Royal Navy rank of commander crouched on the floor in front of Louise, bring his head level with his unborn child. "Of course we are not at war." He closed his eyes for a moment, hoping that his wife was unaware of the various other wars the UK was involved in while she wept. "But, a lot of countries in the region are going to war. And so the Admiralty wants Nova Station to increase its readiness state. And where Georgetown wants me to go, I go."

"So you're not going to be in the war," Louise asked through her sniffles.

"No, honey. It works like this, some of the bigger countries in Nova are fighting one war on the other side of Atrea and some other big countries are preparing to fight a war across the Great North Sea. Our navy is going to put ourselves out there to make sure that nobody messes with our ships, planes, or whatever else out there. We are going to make sure that life continues like normal for you and our baby."

"But why do you have to go?"

"Because this is my job, honey. You know that."

"But you'll be safe?" Louise asked through some more sobs.

"I am going to be many metres under the surface, just listening to all the fray going on above. Remember when we go for the ultrasounds?"

"Yeah…"

"Just like that, except I get to see all the ships and other submarines in the sea. And that way, I get to make sure nobody interferes with our side. The good guys."

"How long are you gonna be gone?"

Commander Stephen Carpenter, RN, reached out and placed his wife's hands safely inside his own and squeezed them lovingly. "I cannot say. Maybe just a few days. Maybe a few weeks. Regardless, I need you to stay strong here with the baby. At least you will have more time for your book club meetings with Heloise, right?"

"Yeah…"

"Everything will be okay, hun. I promise." Stephen rose to his feet and leaned over to kiss his wife on her forehead. "But I have to go now. I love you."

"I love you too."

The officer kissed his wife once more and then grabbed his bags before heading for the front door of their two-bedroom condominium. As he exited his house and walked down the short flight of steps, he looked down both sides of the street and saw several other officers and ratings going through what he had just done. The Royal Navy was going to be setting sail in force.

[Abruzi]

General James T Conway and the other members of the Politburo sat around a rich oaken table in a Smokey room deep in Quantico's governmental buildings. Abruzi had risked much getting into this struggle despite their plans to join with the Conglomerate. Nations with populations double and triple the relatively small Militant State marched to war and the world recoiled in fear.

The General rose slowly, the weight of Abruzian history on his shoulders as a defeat here meant that Abruzi would quiet simply be erased. He coughed softly and adjusted his tie before saying,

“My fellow members, make no mistake we have much to lose, but we have much to gain. Our soldiers could with their sacrifice earn us vital international prestige and general notice, we could through our support show our worth to the Conglomerate and we could though our support gain new lands and recourses.

We have much to lose as well, defeat means the destruction of everything we hold dear. Abruzi's armies, her culture, even her people could be gone. Destroyed by foreign bodies so intent on our destruction, that they leave not even a child alive. Our government could be crushed if the Conglomerate somehow fails to stem the enemy tide, Abruzi left to be ruled as a Fiefdom by the victors. Or nuclear fire can leave us a smoking crater, a glass sheet that stretches for miles.

You see why we must understand the risk associated with aiding our future brothers in the Conglomerate. You know how strongly I love the land of the Militant State Abruzi herself and I myself declare my support for our brothers, who else among you supports the Conglomerate?”

A tense minute followed as each minister battled with the scope of their decision before as one the old men who ran the Militant State pushed their hands into the air.General James T Conway nodded and said,

“I thought as much, very well. The Militant State goes to war."

He turned to one of the aides who stood concealed in the shadows around the Smokey room the Politburo sat.

“See that this is transmitted.”

James said to the man, the aide nodded and immediately walked out of the room with it. The General waved a second man over and said,

“You, see that the First MEU (SOC) is assembled and ready for deployment in twenty four hours.”

The aide nodded and stepped out to enact his leader’s wishes. A cabal of old statesmen had just plunged the Militant State of Abruzi into a war that could prove to be so great and destructive nothing would be the same when the smoke cleared. Hours later a communique was sent to the ODECON, a letter of Abruzi's violent intent.

TO: Those whom it may concern in ODECON
FROM: General James T Conway, The Militant State of Abruzi
ENCRYPTION LEVEL:3

The treacherous declaration of war against the Conglomerate by the former comrade nations of ODECON has outraged the collective sensibilities of Southern Russia. As a prospect nation of the Conglomerate we will unsheathe the sword for our future brothers. As one Abruzi goes to war, to either glorious victory or broken defeat. No matter the result let it be known that we fight for honor, an honor ODECON surely does not have.

As of now a state of war exists between the Militant State of Abruzi and the states of ODECON.

Signed,

General James T Conway

[LOVE DOG]

Official Decree from the Desk of the Caesar, the United Dominion:

I‘m with you, ODECON. Down with the Conglomerate. A bunch of no good slavers and murders. They do not care for human life. They treat the life of the weak as cattle for them to whip. They are pure freaks of nature. They care for only themselves. They are crazy. They can‘t not be trusted. Down with the Conglomerate is what I say. I hereby decree that on this day, the Conglomerate will be turned…

Now that you are awaken by my words, it is time for the truth. We stand with the Conglomerate as these beings step up to her. They will learn something about the Conglomerate as will the whole world. Tearing up the NAP was both a foolish and strange move. Out of nowhere, you drop this nonsense on us. On the Conglomerate. Foolish.

Know this…any civilian naval ship that fly the flag one of the many flags of the Conglomerate that is attacked, a wonderful payment will be owned. For everyone taken or sunk, five naval ships of ODECON will be destroy. But unlike some people, we will not be targeting the innocent civilians. And note this…you will get a surprise when you find a Timber Wolf vessel at sea. One that will not be a happy surprise.

Conglomerate brothers! It is time for us to get our piece. ODECON had stabbed a knife in our back and spit in our faces. They own us something grand, Now, I will call on to those willing nations in the world. Do you want a piece of ODECON? If you do, then come take your piece by force. Join us…you will be welcome with open arms.

ODECON! You have woke a sleeping dragon with your actions. If you come at this dragon, I‘ll will like to say something that should fill your ears for the coming dark days. Come at us with everything or come at us with nothing. Step up to the plate or take your walk. Come at us, but know the outcome. The Conglomerate will overcome this. Will you overcome it?

This message has been faxed to all of ODECON, the Conglomerate, the Wolf Pack and the world. This decree has been written and the world knows what is says. May whomever you believe in give mercy on the souls that die in the coming days.

Signed,

His Royal Baddass, His Royal Alpha Caesar Jason Scotus Lupus of the Royal House of Wolf
The Emperor of the United Dominion
The Lord Marshal of Greater Dominion
The Co-Regional Governor of Romania
The Count of Transylvania
A Prince of the Greater Dominion Kingdom
A Prince of the Kingdom of Cimmeria
A Prince of the Asgardian Kingdom
The CEO of Timber Wolf Incorporated

[Allied Governments]

"But what of our Non-Aggression Treaty?" Jacob Varin asked, bewildered at the news, staring at the clearly filed and labeled papers laid bare on the mahogany table of his office. The sun was shining in Terminus that day, but it brought no warmth; the cold wind of the north was blowing through the Vibius Mountain Range, as is expected this time of year.

The president, as any competent head of state, alerted the necessary people of the treacherous volte face that the "noble ODECON" committed on the Superstate. Of course, he knew the necessary people knew, since Varin was dealing with information passed down to him from forces infinitely greater then him, the true face of the Federation that has existed before the Federation itself held it to her bosom as her heart and mind.

ODECON, in the past, was seen as a noble example of the good in the world, a shining beacon in a world that long since lost it's way. Now that the Federation has grown up and learned it's place in the world, the sad realization that ODECON is little more then a rotten apple, it's sheen merely gilded gold. Now, when life seemed to be going for the better in this world, ODECON decided to rip it's NAP with the Conglomerate on the nonexistent bases of it's subjective morality.

The Adviser still stood in the office, awaiting an official response from the President of the Federation of Allied Governments, "Ready a message, we must mobilize with the Conglomerate. The Federation goes to war, the war that will define this generation, either to glory or ruin."

[Leistung]

Official Communiqué of the Oceanic Defense Coalition

To: [Open]
From: Office of the President of ODECON
Subj: Unilateral dissolution of the NAP

As several comments have been made concerning the former NAP between the Conglomerate and ODECON, I feel it my duty to clear up the specifics of its dissolution.

By sailing a slave ship in the vicinity of Nidia, a key ODECON ally, with the intent of provoking a response, Brewdomia broke a central tenet of the NAP -- members cannot promote hostilities between ODECON and the Conglomerate through 3rd parties. A response by Nidia would have certainly drawn ODECON allies into the conflict. It was the Conglomerate which first broke the NAP, not ODECON. ODECON has simply remedied a mistake by tearing up a tired and useless document preventing free nations from coming to the aid of those oppressed by the Conglomerate.

Moreover, it is the opinion of the Coalition that any wrong perpetrated by ODECON by unilaterally dissolving the NAP is far outweighed by those perpetrated by Conglomerate members. Rather than badger ODECON for, quote, "betraying" the Conglomerate, perhaps the world's attention would be better focused on the Conglomerate's betrayal of the basic tenets of humanity.

Sincerely,


Evan Bachmeier
President of the Coalition

[Zinaire]

To: [OPEN]
From: Chief Executive Gregory Bishop
Re¹: Making the Seas Safe for Liberty

Zinaire has long been an ardent support of freedom for all, regardless of the country they live in or the regime they are subjected to. Naturally, with this comes an undying opposition to the practice of slavery. We find ourselves appalled that slavery persists as an institution in what we like to believe is a modern and, for the most part, civilized world. We consider it an outright abomination that as members of ODECON², we have been aligned with the Conglomerate for some time now. As it has been established, the Conglomerate is no more than a band of thugs, brutes, and slavers, that blindly stands behind even its most vile members. We are disappointed with ourselves and with ODECON for allowing a non-agression pact to be forged with the Conglomerate. As we see it, in order to rectify this wrong, we must demonstrate our utter disgust with the actions– past and present– of the Conglomerate and bring justice to the many who have been wronged by them. We will not hesitate to board slaver ships in Tarquinian waters and forcefully liberate those who are held captive, nor will we falter in defending our allies against the scourge of tyranny, or in freeing those who are oppressed.

The time for freedom for all, not those fortunate enough to be born somewhere such as Zinaire, is long past. We are ashamed that we and our allies in ODECON have stood by those who attempt to stamp out the inalienable rights of every man, and now it is time to correct this and demonstrate our continuing desire to bring liberty to all the people of the world.


Chief Executive Gregory Bishop
Zinairian Executive Council

1: Regarding
2: Oceanic Defense Coalition

[Greal]

Federal Republic of Greal
Ministry of Foreign Affairs

To: International Community
From: Presidential Office of Greal
Subject: Re: ODECON Declaration

In accordance with summons by ODECON Multilateral Authority and the demands of the Greali Senate, the Federal Republic of Greal will do its utmost to restore freedom of the seas. Liberty for all is the number one priority of ODECON and we fully support this fact. The Conglomerate are nothing more then bandits and thieves that feed on people's misery, and I am personally astonished that ODECON has even allowed itself to be associated such people. Time to fix such mistakes.

The people of Greal has spoken.

Sarah Watson
President of Greal
Federal Republic of Greal

[Jenrak]

To those who talk too much,
and do so little.

I hear of nothing but talks of regret and distaste at the previous decisions of ODECON to have signed such a pact with the Conglomerate. The Conglomerate deliberated and talked and decided to figure things out carefully. We have meticulously worked hard to figure out how to keep an unsteady but lasting peace between the two organisations. We have had no intent of launching an attack upon ODECON or its allies. Yet we are tyrants and barbarians and slavers and bandits and thieves? Last I had checked, the Conglomerate had never gone out and actively stomped on others for the sake of whatever twisted ideals you believe it has.

I see nothing but the communiques of propaganda ministers, slaving and thirsting for war, donning an armor rusted from old ideals. You cling to these beliefs and speak from your pompous ivory towers as if you are to judge. We are not the ones who instigated this conflict, my friends. We are not the ones who tore up the weak but consistent peace that had lasted in such a short time. Though now, at the end of these, you dare speak of us as if you are our betters? That even with all the zealotry you display in attempting to change us, to threaten ships at your will, you want to continue? My Queen has offered her hand in diplomacy.

The Temsplaces are shocked. The Core is angry. The Zadikistra are lusting for war. But she dons none of that sort. She hands out the olive branch of diplomacy, and in your blindness - if I could even call it that - you reject her without a second notice. I had believed you to be better that, but it showed me that least of all you have no right to pontificate on the subject of right and wrong. There is little I can say otherwise, but I can certainly express my shock.

It was a waste of her time to have dealt with ones such as you. Even though Enkur may not forgive, I will.

I forgive you, and godspeed. What else may remain is up to Sephilia to decide.

Yours truly,
Kindest and Humble,
of Ackthal, the Father, and Enkur, the Brother,
Mahara Edoqlius,
Servant of Sephilia Tezekilth,
Queen of the Amalgamate.

[Oseato]

Federalemarine Naval Complex
Rooipoort, Oseato
02:14 hours

The unce unce unce of the sound system seemed to bathe Jordaan in a steady flow of bass and electronic beats. Lights strobed and lasers danced across the room just like the countless number of young men and women. Jordaan quickly downed his glass of bourbon before placing it back on the bar and gazing out across the busy room. He caught sight of a nice looking blonde across the room standing with her friends. Damn, he thought, the things I would do t-.

Suddenly the music was interrupted by incessant ringing, drowning out everything else. Jordaan sat right up as he came awake and scrambled to pick up the ringing telephone beside his bed, checking his clock and muttering a few choice words before doing so. "Hallo? Wat is dit?"¹

"Luitenant Terreblanche? Your squadron has been activated for wartime deployment, you are to report to the flight line within the hour." spoke the duty officer on the phone. He waited just long enough for Jordaan to reply before he broke the connection to contact numerous other personnel who were also being activated. Jordaan simply closed his eyes before he stood up and walked across the moonlight apartment to his bathroom for a quick shower before grabbing the bag of clothing and other objects he kept for just this type of occasion.

The spring evening was rather crisp, the air nearly silent but for the chirping of some insects, as Jordaan made his way to his three door Leier L1² that was parked outside the on-base apartment complex he lived in. The drive to the flight line was relatively short, though the naval base itself was rather large, driving the whole way in silence in order to focus upon the thoughts that cluttered his mind. Eventually he parked outside the set of hangers that were home to the aircraft of Terreblanche's squadron, spying the bustling activity of the ground crews to prep the aircraft and the pilots heading toward the briefing room. Jordan picked up his bag and quickly headed off to catch the briefing, stopping along the way to check his bag with the ground crew to load into his plane. Finally he did make it into the briefing room ready to find out the reason why he was being deployed.

"Ah, Meneer³ Terreblanche, nice of you to join us, please take a seat," spoke the squadron commander before he continued his briefing, "As I was saying, Consul Colton and the High Command have ordered the Federalemarine to sea in order to teach the nations of The Conglomerate a lesson they shouldn't soon forget. We don't have specifics yet but several fleets, including the one to which we are attached, are now mobilizing and taking up patrols around the world in conjunction with our ODECON allies to interdict all Conglomerate aligned shipping. Now, we'll get more in depth and mission specific information as we take up patrol, but right now we're to be airborne within the next two hours and rendezvous with our assigned carrier. Any questions? Good, dismissed." As the commander finished, countless other squadrons across Oseato readied themselves in much the same way, sailors and pilots all were reporting for duty, ships were leaving port, and within the hour Terreblanche's GRS.1 Stryx⁴ and numerous others were in the air and headed out to sea.

Notes:
1: Afrikaans for "Hello? What is it?"
2: Leier L1
3: Afrikaans for "Mister" or "Sir"
4: GRS.1 Stryx

[Ustio North]

23 Grove Street,
Malacha City, Ustio
1:24 PM

To many, the 'war' with ODECON was everywhere. There was no escaping the Seneschal's declaration of the Empire's intent. But for one man, lounging in his home, a glass of Scotch clutched in one hand, the Declaration had not yet reached his ears. He had no idea that his entire country was going to a war footing.

Currently on leave, the man had not been recalled simply for the Declaration, probably on Seneschal Io's orders, who had personally given him the R&R. And how was he choosing to spend it? Drinking Scotch and lounging in his home, simply waiting for his R&R to end so he could get back to what he enjoyed and did best.

A hammering on the door suddenly jolted him from his daydreaming state. Getting up carefully, and grabbing the keys off the table, he headed - not entirely stable - to the door. Upon opening it, he found two soldiers stood outside, the letters "MP" printed in big bold letters on their helmets.

"Sod off. I'm on leave. Io's orders" the man simply told them, attempting to close the door. A powerful hand lashed out, holding the door open. The other arm produced a piece of paper, thrusting it in the man's direction. He looked at it, slightly perturbed, before taking it and reading it. And then, he read it again, before looking up at the two Military Police officers

"Hit me. I must be dreaming" the man said incredulously. He was then doubled over in pain as the second officer thumped him hard in the midriff. Regaining his composure, he stood up and faced them "Okay, not dreaming. Give me a moment"

He dissapeared back inside, and returned, fully dressed in the typical white polo-neck sweater and trousers that made up his uniform. An overcoat and peaked hat clutched in one hand, he locked the door and followed the officers to the jet black Mercedes-Benz 220, it too with MP printed in big white letters on the front doors. He entered the back, the two officers entering the front, at which point the car pulled away.

Ajusting his tousled black hair as they went, the man noticed the change since the declaration. Tanks and armoured vehicles from the reserve companies now sat on damn near every street corner, with men from territorial manning propaganda posts nearby, with the slogan 'The Seneschal requests your obedience, but demands your loyalty! Fight the oppressive menace!' printed on the sides. There were less people on the streets too, and checkpoints from here to kingdom come, forcing him to show his ID about twenty times before they reached their destination. It was a naval base, abuzz with activity, and not just because of the Seneschal's declaration. Because this was a Submarine base.

Ustians loved the water. Submersible warfare was what they considered their forte - one of their many. To the point that several of their Typhoon Class Submarines had been converted to become amphibious assault craft, forgoing ballistic missile capabilty in favour of a hangar capable of housing several small to medium sized helicopters¹. However, there was no sign of these boats in the harbour as the man, donning his coat and hat, headed for his own boat. Finally, through all the commotion, he spotted members of his crew congregating around one area, and then saw the boat itself.

The INV (Imperial Naval Vessel) Terrible Nomad was one of the non-converted Typhoon class submarines. Even covered with snow and ice as it was, it was still a menacing sight, simply sat amongst the others, the INV Hellish Gauntlet and INV Infamy Sigil. Walking closer, the crewmen spotted him and quickly passed the word along, and by the time he reached the group, there were several more men in the group, and they stood to attention as he stood before them. He looked at them, checking uniforms and the like, before re-saluting and giving them a simple nod and then moving off down the gantry. He was halfway down when a voice called out to him

"Admiral Eckhart!" the voice called out, naming him as he turned back to see a younger man jogging down the dock to meet him "Admiral, Seneschal Io's here to see you"

Eckhart looked rather put out by this, but with a lack of orders, he turned back and headed off with the man, heading towards a small hut on the far side of the docks. Along the way, he spotted an older looking man, and stopped to speak to him directly

"Chief, get my ship ready to sail" Eckhart said simply, before continuing on. Inside, they found Io waiting for them

"Good work Captain Kay. Nice to see you again Rein" Io said, in his most slimy of voices to the two sailors

"Likewise, Seneschal" Eckhart replied, although he obviously did not mean it

"Your orders, Admiral" Io stated, handing him another piece of paper. Eckhart read it, and again, before looking up at Io

"I did just read this right, didn't I?" he said, passing it to Kay "Any vessel flying the colours of an ODECON member state?"

"And no survivors" Io added, bluntly "Civillians are to be captured and brought back to the Empire for 'questioning'. Prisoners of war are still considered an enemy and are to be shot on sight. Those are your orders Admiral. Happy hunting"

With that, he and his guards swiftly left the room, leaving Eckhart and Kay a moment to ponder the orders, before they left for their boat too. The commotion outside had died down, and sailors now began boarding the submarines assembled in the naval yard. Upon boarding the Terrible Nomad, she put to sea once all were aboard, and slipped silently beneath the waves, her fellow boats following suit.

The wolfpacks would hunt once more.
___________________________________
1. Specifications on said submarines are located here, under "Conversion Packs". They were bought back on Jolt.

[Drakonian Imperium]

Grand Dominion of Drakonian Imperium
Official Communiqué

It is the belief of the Imperium, that all Sentient Beings are created free, equal in dignity and rights; that freedom from slavery and oppression is but one of those natural and inalienable rights. It is with this belief, that the Imperium considers, as it ever has considered, slavery to be one of the most serious and the most heinous Crimes against Sentience.

It is as such that the Imperium has, as it has over the centuries and as it continues to this day, offers asylum and sanctuary to those individuals fleeing oppression, tyranny, and slavery within its territories. And as such, the Imperium also shall, as ever, reserve the right to stop, search, and if necessary seize any vessel, in international waters, suspected of engaging in any illegal action, whether that be slavery or any other crime. And to bring those responsible for those suspected crimes to justice in a court of law.

However, it is with some concern, that the Imperium has been monitoring the developing State of War between the Nations of the International Organizations known as the Oceanic Defense Coalition and the Conglomerate; noting that some of the Member States of both organizations are the Gholgothic Allies of Drakonia.

Of particular concern, are the humanitarian effects* being conducted by the Imperium, currently underway in the Gholgothic State of Brewdonia. As the Imperium will be assisting that State in the potential emigration of recently freed individuals, and as the Imperium may in future be assisting other Gholgothic States in similar endeavors, it is noticeably concerned about the safety of its own citizens and military personnel, as well as any émigré under the Imperium's protection.

The Drakonian Imperium was founded to provide for the defense of its citizens. This is its greatest concern, and as such there is no matter taken as seriously as the protection of its citizens and those individuals under the Flag of the Imperium. If citizens or émigrés are killed, injured, or come to any harm whatsoever, the Imperium shall hold any government responsible for that action, whether they are Member States of the Conglomerate or the Oceanic Defense Coalition.

The Imperium will and shall take any and every action necessary to insure the safety of its citizens and those under its protection, presently or in the future.

Office of International Affairs,
Drakonian Diplomatic Corps.
Drako Throne, Drakonia

__________________
* Declaration of Humanitarian Operation in Brewdonia

[Whiskeasy]

Diplomatic Communiqué

To OPEN
From Prime Minister Jack Daniels
Subject Open Hostilities

It is with great sadness and disappointment that I write this letter. It seems the world has forgotten the true nature of the Coalition, for so many rush to the defence of the Conglomerate, an organisation which is so blatantly in the wrong. The Coalition has always worked th betterment of the human being, it has always been the one who supported the right decision. It has been the side of the 'good guy', the side that has always held the moral highground and I think that we still hold it. When dear world have we lead you astray? When have we been proved wrong in our decisions? When the Coalition is stirred to conflict it is for very god reason. And as many of our allies have stated there is no lack of fault to be found in the Conglomerate. Such blatant aggression and breaches in basic human rights are scattered throughout their history as an organisation. Warmongering, dangerous, murderous. All these words describe the Conglomerate, these words describe your need to support the Coalition now. Not just your need but your duty. Each of you have a duty to support us now, just as we supported you when the IFA was out warmongering, like when we vowed to abolish slavery in our seas. W did these things for the betterment of the world and now you all must stand up and realise how wrong and evil the Conglomerate has become. Slowly they have amassed power and support, but I challenge this. All of you think about why you support hese devils, think about what they have done for you. Think about what they will do for you.

Nothing. The shall do nothing, they shall oppress you. They shall attack you. They shall take your citizens as slaves. They shall threaten you with nuclear holocaust.

And maybe.
Just maybe.
They will annihilate you, with soldiers and bombs and missiles. With nuclear and biological weapons.

Rejoin the side of good dear brethren, the Commonwealth does pledge it's full support for the decision of the Multilateral Authority. The Commonwealth has it's own representative within the MA and heartily agrees that direct action is the only way forward. The Commonwealth shall hunt down slave ships across the globe, it shall end the tyrannic rein of the Conglomerate, we hold the morally high ground. Now and forever the Coalition shall defend the rights of the oppressed. It shall be the force of good in the world. Never forget dear people the good it has done for you, never forget the forces behind it. Never forget your duty.

God save the Queen,
Jack Daniels, Prime Minister of Whiskeasy and her Dominions