Rebellion against tyrants is obedience to God [IC|MT|Open]

[Kjalaara]

KINGDOM OF KJALÅRA (Encryption: High) To: Construction Enterprises From: Queen Tove Dear Friends, It seems we are working on the same side here. Currently my naval forces have been requested to assist in a campaign against slavery. I have positively answered that request. I appreciate your cooperation, your ships may pass unhindered. Military operations will be put on hold for the time of your transfer to the ports. Due to the comming storm we will send a few smaller ships to pick you up and escort you through these difficult waters. The whole area will become too dangerous to navigate soon. Travel save, death to Slavers! Heil og Sæl

[Rupudska]

Somewhere in the Mediterranean(idk i'm assuming Posteastan is on some Hyper-Earth version of the Mediterranean
U-312

There was a very good reason that all navies that could afford to operate them had submarines. Dollar for dollar, no nautical war machine had anywhere near the potential for both offensive and defensive warfare as the humble attack submarine - doubly so if it was nuclear-powered. Great carriers, heavily-armed cruisers, and even the odd battleship limping into the 21st Century were always impressive, but without either submarines or a means to defend themselves from submarines they were nothing more than targets.

In the old days, during the Neuroi Wars and before, Karlsland had relied heavily on submarines - of both attack and cargo types. The Neuroi did not develop submersibles until late in the war, so operating under the water was an effective way of protecting the Reichsmarine's shipping lines from attack without having to send precious (and vulnerable) surface combat ships better served for port defense. Post-war, they were also useful for dealing with pirates that had sprung up temporarily in the many, many power vacuums left by the eyes of the world's governments being turned elsewhere.

In the present, the Imperial Reichsmarine still relied greatly on submarines. It was another part of the Imperial military's wider basic doctrine of valuing mobility, low detection, and striking hard. And when it did come time for the soldiers of the Kaiser to break out the big guns, submarines would be there too - in the form of cruise and ballistic missile submarines, armed with any kind of warhead imaginable - not just conventional or nuclear, but thermobaric, hallucinogenic, and even EMPs.

Attack submarine tactics had only changed somewhat. Gone were the wolfpacks except in times of open warfare, instead attack submarines operated alone or, rarely, in pairs. One such solitary submarine was U-312, of the new Suhren-class. As it passed Sicily on an otherwise routine patrol it received new orders. It would be the vanguard unit for later Karlslandic activities in Posteastan, and upon completing its first mission would contact the Allanean fleet in the region and coordinate its efforts with them. The crew thought it very unusual for a Reichsmarine submarine to coordinate with anyone not within the HRE, but that was modern warfare for you.

Its first order of business, as revealed to it as it began to steam towards the Posteastan coast, was to follow and if possible intercept/destroy, a ship (or ships) of troops operated by a PMC known as International Defense Services being sent there at the behest of a Kenmorian company known to have had regular contact with the Syndicate for 'labor'.

[Danlina]

Villi Island
A helicopter labeled with the Danlina Ambassadori Branch seal was on its way to Villi. Inside, sat Orli Hanokh with her two bodyguards. She was the new Ambassadori Minister, and she sent to personally partake in the Villi talks about the dire situation in Posteastan. She was sent to represent Danlina’s interest in cooperation between the navies stationed in Posteastan’s waters, and try to reach a common goal. She was also sent to condemn the fact that a corporation such as Construction Enterprises is sponsoring a “peacekeeping” military in Posteastan, as if the situation wasn’t already bad. But mainly, she could only hope that her involvement in the talks will actually make sense to her out of the mess called Posteastan.

---

Syndicate Coast
It has been two days since the rogue Wright agents took over the cost facility, and they have already established themselves well as the new bosses around. Most of their new soldiers were just former syndicate members who understood fighting wasn’t an option, and some of the soldiers were recruited from around the area. Some of the more high ranking soldiers the Wrights recruited wore makeshift “W” insignia, that were now considered a status symbol in the Posteastani criminal world. But the Wright agents didn’t stop there. They wanted to take over more syndicate property before the syndicate gets back on track. And they knew that they needed strong allies in this country-wide takeover.

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A Local Motel, Pibtsy
Steven Krowning was an agent deployed by Allanea to gather intel about the conflict. Although his colleagues still had a lot of work to do here he was about to leave to go back to the Allanean homeland, to file the mission reports. But then he heard a knock on the door. Behind the door stood a man, quite large, and dressed in track pants and a white button-up shirt, with a “W” Wright insignia pinned to his collar. “Yes, how can I help you?” Asked Krowning to the man.
“I am here to deliver a message on the behalf of the Wrights” responded the man, handing Krowning an envelope. Krowning thanked the peculiar man and shut the door behind him. He sat at the small desk the motel room had and opened the envelope.

Hello, I do not know who will end up reading this message, all I know is that you are an Allanean agent.
Let me introduce myself: Commanding Officer George Kohen. As you may or may not know, I am working day and night to seek what’s left of the syndicate and take it from them, and I offer Allanea a deal: You support my operations in Posteastan, and in return I ensure to stop the act of human trafficking wherever my authority sets foot. Moreover, I have seen what the last actions, which I truly admire the way they were pooled off, have done to Allanea’s image, and I offer to take care of the more sensitive work for you to avoid worsening your image. After all, the game we play here is based on cooperating to get rid of the enemy, as quick as possible.
Pass on this message to your higher-ups in Liberty City. If you want me, you know where to find me.

[Uan aa Boa]

From Adeema Pula, CCRWP, Uan aa Boa
To Rutger Thorbecke, Foreign Minister, Keilersmoor

I heard ten thousand whispering and nobody listening

Minister,

I acknowledge your swift and decisive response to my earlier communication and would like to reassure you that the friendship between our two nations remains strong. I have no desire to pursue any kind of redress through your court system. I sought only a correction to the earlier error and an assurance that it would not be repeated and was surprised to learn of political parties being fined. I confess, however, that I have little knowledge of the workings of a multi-party polity and you must, of course, lead your ministry in whatever way seems best to you.

Uphold the oppressed and the poor in their sufferings!
United, the People will be victorious!

From The government of Uan aa Boa
To All participants in the Villi Island process

Even the President of the United Federation must sometimes have to stand naked

We would like to make it very clear that in light of recent events all cooperation and information sharing with representatives of the Free Kingdom of Allanea is at an end with immediate effect. It is now clear that such information sharing was unidirectional in nature and we wish to emphasise that we had no prior knowledge of the wave of attacks, bombings and assassinations carried out by Allanean forces.

Many have spoken out against the violation of the so-called human rights of the slavers of the Sakala syndicate and the lack of judicial process attendant on their execution. As revolutionaries we do not wish to indulge such liberal bourgeois fantasies.

Nonetheless, it is now clear that we were mistaken in our belief that Allanea was an ally in the fight against slavery. We summarise as follows the outcomes of their recent actions.

Persons rescued from enslavement... 0
Provisions made for the support and rehabilitation of the victims of enslavement... 0
Attempts to address the conditions that give rise to enslavement... 0

We are reluctantly forced to conclude that Allanea's sole interest in the issue of slavery is as a pretext for blowing things up and killing people. We therefore warmly invite them to withdraw from Posteastan and leave these complex matters to the adults.

A red sun rises!
Unity! Discipline! Progress!

Excerpt from an address the People's Assembly, Aa
Chairman Jean Baptiste Mazemba
Comrades, and representatives of the international media, I would like now to turn to the recent statement issued by the Kenmorian company Construction Enterprises. Rich is the irony with which they accuse our cyber-military forces of terrorism, because while our actions have been wholly non-violent their corporation is, by its own admission, sailing a military force towards Posteastan, in clear defiance of the international peace process. They say we have caused hurt by defacing their carefully branded corporate logo. A thousand apologies gentlemen! We had no idea your sensibilities were so refined. If that was hurtful to you, we can only wonder how you managed such a close business relationship with people such as Skendar "The Elf" Cernat, widely reported to have castrated and crucified an innocent man for interfering in the slavers' operations. There is nowhere to hide - your hypocrisy is laid bare for all to see.

We should ask, however, who are these so-called peacekeepers, this International Defence Services? The answer is simple - mercenaries. These thugs for hire have left a long and bloody trail throughout the conflict zones of the world. They fight not in struggles between nations, but as muscle for corporations determined to exploit, to clear cut, to strip mine, to bulldoze both the resources of less wealthy countries and the everyday people who would attempt to stand in their way.

What did we call it centuries past, comrades, when the white man descended on innocent lands to plunder them for his profit? To make away with their resources and their people, no... with their very souls? We called in enslavement, colonialism, imperialism and Construction Enterprises is its modern face. Now they are coming for Posteastan, and though the people of that land are also white that will not spare them. They will wake one day to find their phone lines, their factories, their streets, their harbours, every facet of their nation stolen from them and become the possession of these bloodsuckers. They will find anyone who tried to resist crushed by their enforcers, first the slaver syndicate and then the so-called peacekeepers, while the West looks on caring only for the effect on the stock market.

We call on all nations of the international community to protect war torn Posteastan from this invasion of profiteers and prevent Construction Enterprises from violating the military embargo.

[Allanea]

The government of Uan aa Boa has claimed that the Allaneans have rescued no people from slavery. This is a lie. Allanean soldiers have, at great personal risk, in military operations in with several of them have perished, carried out a rescue operation to save people from one of the most fortified Syndicate strongholds.

The government of Uan aa Boa has claimed that the Allaneans have not made provisions to rehabilitate victims of slavery. This is a lie. The Allanean government, and the Crown, are on record of working with governments around the world to promote and fund various organizations that aid victims of slavery, among them the Ama-Gi Crown Charity. The Free Kingdom maintains a range of national, local, and private programs to rehabilitate the victims of slavery. In Posteastan, it is operating a range of aid programs such as vaccination, training medical personnel, rebuilding the roads, and distributing food.

The government of Uan aa Boa has claimed that the Allaneans have not addressed the conditions that give rise to "enslavement". This is a lie. The principal reason that there is "enslavement" in Posteastan is not that there are complex "conditions" leading people to enslave each other, but that law enforcement in Posteastan is sometimes too incompetent and corrupt to prevent people from physically kidnapping each other into slavery, and, second, because slavers were allowed to operate tank divisions and their own private navy and physically kidnap people by the thousands.

These "conditions" need to be addressed by assisting those law enforcement agencies that will arrest the kidnappers, and depriving the slavers of the tanks, IFVs, and warships, that they use to kidnap refugees by the thousands.

Tomorrow, the Sakala Syndicate will not stage armed raids on refugee camps to kidnap people by the thousands, because the Free Kingdom Navy has addressed the underlying condition that leads to massed armored raids by slavers.

Next week, Skendar Cernat will not crucify a cleric for speaking out against his excesses, because the Free Kingdom Armed Forces have solved the underlying condition that leads to Cernat torturing clerics to death.

The Uaa an Boans love to imagine themselves as "adults" who "figure out how to solve underlying causes" while others bleed and die under the whip.

While the Allaneans feed the hungry, build roads, vaccinate children, and shield the formerly enslaved I their country, while Allanean soldiers and sailors bleed and die for others freedom, the Uaa an Boans make mouth-noises about 'international workers solidarity' and brag about the fact they hacked a Kenmorian website. If this is adulthood, we want none of it.

Furthermore, death to the slaver.

[Allanea]

In Kalugin's office

"Dear Gods." – Grand Ambassador Nizhinsky said, holding up a copy of the letter. "This poses us with some quandary."

"Generally speaking, there are good reasons intelligence agencies don't just hire people who walk in the door." – Kalugin replied.

"It also is clear this person doesn't quite… understand Allanean foreign policy, or the way we work." – Nizhinsky replied. "However, it's possible that he is who he says he is."

"That does not mean we want to hire him." – Kalugin replied. "It is entirely possible it's some kind of ludicrous five-step game by someone to – as they imagine – set us up."

"The fact is," – Nizhinsky went on, "they seem to imagine that the nations that are now outraged by our operations are the audience of our show. They are not. A physics professor has not failed because the audience does not laugh."

"So here are those people: we do not know who they are, and we do not know what they want. We cannot just start throwing money at them."

"No, but the issue is not that we are afraid to waste money. The issue is that they might try to deceive us, or fuck up in some bloody incredible way," – Allaneans were quite as foulmouthed in private as they were in public, of course. – "What I wonder – and I'm not the spy, you're the spy – can we figure out some way to draw out more information about them while we make the decision."

"My instinct here is to say no outright. But we can do something else. Something simple, and cheap."

* * *

The return message was a simple one. It was a sealed envelope, containing a single sheet of paper, and a storage key. The latter would contain a cryptocurrency wallet for about half a million New Dornalian dollars – not much, considering the cost of weapons.

The letter went:

Dear friend!

If you are the professional you claim to be, you will understand why we are not just going to just showering you with cash. However, this sum will be a sufficient remuneration for your first task. You are to infiltrate the phone data centers and server facilities of the Rostechko landline phone systemand major Internet providers. Once you provide proof that you have personnel at the city's phone exchange, we will deliver, by clandestine means, tracking chips to be implanted within the system. We believe the money is more than substantial for this task.

The Allaneans had gambled in a way that, they felt, was stacked in their favor. If the walk-in failed, he wouldn't be spoken to again – and if he succeeded, there would be a flow of information that could be verified independently, and could not be meaningfully faked – access to the phone system of an entire large city.[/align]

[Austria-Bohemia-Hungary]

The Imperial and Royal War Navy
Of the Kingdoms and Lands in Reichsrath Represented, the Lands of the Holy Hungarian Crown of Saint Stephen and the Lands of the Bohemian Crown of Saint Wenceslaus

---

To: The Ministry of War of the Free Kingdom of Allanea
From: Flag Officer Submarines, Imperial and Royal War Navy, HM Naval Base Pola
CC: The Imperial Ministry of Defence, Holy Romagnan Empire of Karlsland
Subject: Operations in Posteastan
Encryption Level: Ultra V

---

Minister

As Flag Officer Submarines of the Imperial and Royal War Navy, it is my duty to inform the Ministry of War of the Free Kingdom of Allanea that a squadron of nuclear fleet submarines, both tactical and strategic is underway to Posteastan to provide whatever support Your Armed Forces and its officers deems necessary, and to conduct unrestricted submarine warfare against slaver shipping in the region, including but not limited to those originating from the barbarian realm of Kenmoria per the Amistad Declaration. In addition, a squadron of vessels lead by HM Hospital Ship Ophelia is also underway to attach themselves to Your naval forces already present in order to provide humanitarian aide when such an opportunity arises.

I have the honour to remain
Flag Officer Submarines, Imperial and Royal War Navy
Admiralleutnant Wiktoria Ferdinandea Primavesi Edle von Primamonte

---

The Imperial and Royal War Navy
Of the Kingdoms and Lands in Reichsrath Represented, the Lands of the Holy Hungarian Crown of Saint Stephen and the Lands of the Bohemian Crown of Saint Wenceslaus

---

To: The International Community
From: Admiralty, Imperial and Royal War Navy, HM Naval Base Pola
Subject: Operations in Posteastan
Encryption Level: Unencrypted

---

Ladies and gentlemen

As the Admiral-Inspector of the Imperial and Royal War Navy, it is my duty to inform the International Community that a total exclusion zone with a distance of 200 km's from the shores of Posteastan versus visually identified traffic aiding and abetting the Syndicate slavers and their allies is now in effect. Any such traffic identified by the forces of the Imperial and Royal Monarchy and its allies will be destroyed without warning.

I have the honour to remain
Admiral-Inspector, Imperial and Royal War Navy
Großadmiral Franchesca Freiin von Lovisoni

[Kjalaara]

KINGDOM OF KJALÅRA (Encryption: None) To: Public From: Queen Tove Dear Friends, As Queen of Kjalåra, it is my duty to inform the International Community that my fleets are operating along the shores of Posteastan. I have readied the strategig missile groups and the strategic bomber commands. Any attacks against my fleet will be considered a declaration of war. I case of such a declaration of war I must inform you that your centers of population will be destroyed without warning. Heil og Sæl

[Balagan]

THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF BALAGAN

TO: Public
FROM:Commander Dursun Dektash

Piracy and Terrorism

We wish to inform the broader public that request for an exclusion zone outside Posteastan has been recjeted.. To underline this decision Task Force Ivory is on its way to support our allies in Caracasus in their endeavor and will participate in peace enforcing operations in that exact areal.

As it has been stated before, Balagan too reserves the right to treat any attack on us, our allies or the international trade routes as acts of war. We reserve the right to extend our undertakings to restore peace to the places where they have the most effect.

In the past we have made the mistake of acting too lenient when it came to attacks on our allies. The results of the conflict code named 'GOPC' are well known and will not be repeated. Our civilian vessels will as always repel all acts of piracy with lethal force. Attacks on our allies will instantly lead to disproportional retaliations.

This is not a threat, this is a public service announcement. Whatever you do, stay away from international trade routes, don't come near vessels under Balagani flags, do not attack our allies. Neither by accident nor on purpose.

I thank you for your patients and pray that peace will prevail.

Dursun Dektash
Commander of the Naval Task Force Ivory

[Kenmoria]

The cool, calm air and sea juxtaposed the violence of the ships sailing thereon, which were filled with hired services from IDS. Preparations had been made to attack and hopefully destroy any other vessel that came near, but it seemed that wouldn’t be necessary. In a rather unexpected turn of events, the pessimistically sent message asking for permission to land had been met with an affirmative response, and, in further correspondences, an agreement for protection of the Kenmorian fleet had been agreed. Officially this was in order to help from possible attacks by undesirable elements of Posteastan society, it also served the purpose of making sure that no Allaneans, Boanis, Caracarusans, or other irritating nations got in the way of in the way of the operation. Kjalåran ships would be protecting the ships with their guns and soldiers, which should complement the IDS complement of weapons and hired guns well.

Therefore, with a gleam in the eye of some of the more zealous captains, the IDS military sea carriers advanced towards Posteastan. Soon, they were joined by their defence of navies from more respected governments. The chance of anybody attacking them now would be remote, if possible, and could put even more fuel on the propaganda fire that was steadily burning. Cruising steadily, and now with an escort, the ships advanced further and further towards the coast. Rifles were loaded and put on the side, while weapons systems were set up to hit the stretch of sea between them and the break of land. In the distance, some other vessels became visible. Not overtly aggressive, but certainly neither Kenmorian nor Kjalåran. Boani, they were. As soon as they were noticed, more of the crew were put into active guard, and their guns reflected like claws of steel in the clear sea.

Simultaneously, the aircraft carrier flew over to Roztechko. In the distance, one of the pilots could see the unfolding situation, and watched it with a look of mild surprise. The soldiers, ready for action and stuffed with capitalist intentions, put on their jackets and went to the side of the plane. As it landed in the makeshift runway, crackling with the heat of the sun, a thud was heard for a mile around. Men climbed out, hoisting their guns upon their shoulders and smiling with optimistic glee at the situation. Many of them were paid on a per-case basis, and were going hungry when there wasn’t work. Therefore, with such a long and involved war coming up, money would finally be reliably coming into their families. Morale was higher, and equipment costs greater still, so a landslide was expected in battle.

[Danlina]

OFFICIAL TELEGRAM

---

Topic: Bringing Crimes To Justice

from: Office Of The Danlinian Prime Minister

---

To Queen Tove of Kjalaara,
First I would like to open with a simple fact: Katerin Rozen is a criminal. I would like to state another fact: The Kingdom of Kjalaara has taken Rozen out of prison by force, threatening the lives of innocent Danlinians.
As the head of the Legislative Branch, and with full support of the heads of the Arms and Ambassadori Branches, I hereby demand Kjalaara hand over Rozen to Danlinian authorities. I will remind you that you are only worsening her situation, and if she will continue being under your command and cooperate with you she will be facing the option of capital punishment for heavy treason. I also find it appropriate to add that we have sent a representative to the Villi summit and will be involving the international community in this scandal.

Choose Wisely Before Taking Your Next Move,
Samuel Robinson, Prime Minister Of The Armed Republic Of Danlina

[Kjalaara]

KINGDOM OF KJALÅRA (Encryption: None) To: Public From: Queen Tove Dear Friends, I am shocked and surprised by this vile accusations. The name of Katerin Rozen does not ring a bell. Is she some kind of actress in adult entertainment in your nation? I have never heard of her and I cannot hand someone over I don't even know. She is not in Kjalåra. I outright deny the involvement of Kjalåran special forces in the liberation of Katerin Rozen. I do agree that the skill and finesse with which the operation was conducted point to Kjalåra but you can hardly blame us for any brilliant military operation that has taken place. If you want my advice you should look for her in Libertariatropolis. These guys probably have reason to kill her, no? If there is anything else I can do for you please feel free to ask. The name Katerin Rozen is unknown to me or my administration. She is not in Kjalåra therefore she cannot be extradited. Heil og Sæl

[Allanea]

THE REICHSBURG DECLARATION ON POSTEASTAN CRISIS REFUGEES AND FORMERLY ENSLAVED PERSONS

Whereas, the crisis in Posteastan has brought forth untold suffering to millions of people,

And whereas, slavery and terrorism have been the signature of Posteastan's unique climate, therefore putting the residents thereof in danger,

And whereas, assisting the residents of Posteastan on location has proven difficult,

We the undersigned hereby confirm the following

1. The nations of Allanea, Reichskamphen, Karlsland, Ostmark, each commit to welcome in their nation a minimum number of 50,000 refugees from Posteastan, with a priority towards unattended minors and Formerly Enslaved Persons.

2. Each of the undersigned countries will make the full range of social services typically available to refugees in those countries, also available to Formerly Enslaved Persons from Posteastan.

3. The Formerly Enslaved Persons will have the choice of seeking long-term residence in signatory nations (even beyond the length of the conflict), or returning to Posteastan after the conflict completes.

4. The undersigned countries call on the neighbors, friends, and allies of Posteastan to undertake a like policy.


Cassiopeia Blaken-Kazansky, Empress of Greater Prussia and the Thousand States, Queen of Allanea, Reichskamphen, Leipzig-Island, Tsarina of All Russia, Moscow, Vladimir, Novgorod; Kazan, Astrakhan, Siberia, Chersonese Taurida, Lady of Pskov and Grand Princess of Smolensk; Princess, Karelia, Tver, Yugorsky land, Perm, Vyatka, and others; Lord and Grand Prince of Nizhny Nogorod, Ryazan, Polotsk, Rostov, Yaroslavl, Belozersk, Udorsky land, Obdorsk, Kondia, , and all of the northern countries Lady; hereditary Sovereign and ruler of the Circassian and Mountainous Princes and of others; Lord of Turkestan; Archduke of Free Dragkon, Duchess of Leyfield, Blaken-Island, Schleswig-Holstein, Stormarn, Dithmarschen, and Oldenburg, Countess of Centreville, Protector of Snoghosia

Alexander Blaken-Kazansky, Emperor of Greater Prussia and the Thousand States, King of Allanea, Reichskamphen, Leipzig-Island, Tsar of All Russia, Moscow, Vladimir, Novgorod; Kazan, Astrakhan, , Siberia, Chersonese Taurida, Lord of Pskov and Grand Prince of Smolensk; Prince, Karelia, Tver, Yugorsky land, Perm, Vyatka, and others; Lord and Grand Prince of Nizhny Nogorod, Ryazan, Polotsk, Rostov, Yaroslavl, Belozersk, Udorsky land, Obdorsk, Kondia, and all of the northern countries Master; hereditary Sovereign and ruler of the Circassian and Mountainous Princes and of others; Lord of Turkestan; Archduke of Free Dragkon, Duke of Leyfield, Blaken-Island, Schleswig-Holstein, Stormarn, Dithmarschen, and Oldenburg, Count of Centreville, Protector of Snogohsia, Liberator of Torontonias, President of the Capitalist Internationale, Friend of the Elves, and Headmaster of the Leyfield School for Girls.

The Imperial and Royal Minister for Foreign Affairs and Privy House-, Court-, and State-Chancellor
Her Serene Highness Alexandra Ignatia Prinzessin von Hardegg

His Imperial and Royal Majesty Friedrich VI, Emperor of Karlsland, Emperor of the Romans, King of the Germans, King of Prussia, Margrave of Brandenburg, Burgrave of Nuremberg, Count of Hohenzollern, Sovereign and supreme Duke of Silesia and The County Glatz, Grand Duke of the Lower Rhine and Posen, Duke of Saxony, Westphalia and Angria, to Pomerania, Lüneburg, Holstein and Schleswig, to Magdeburg, Bremen, Geldern, Cleve, Jülich and Berg, as well as the Wends and Kashubians, to Krossen, Lauenburg, Mecklenburg, Landgrave to Hesse and Thuringia, Margrave of the Upper and Lower Lusatia, Prince from Oranien, Prince of Rugia, to Ostfriesland, to Paderborn and Pyrmont, to Halberstadt, Munster, Minden, Osnabrück, Hildesheim, to Verden, Kammin, Fulda, Nassau and Mörs, Gefurstgraf to Henneberg, count of the Mark and to Ravensberg, to Hohenstein, Tecklenburg and Lingen, to Mansfeld, Sigmaringen and Veringen, Lord of Frankfurt

The Right Honourable Chancellor Erica Bachmeier

[Schwarzenfels]

The Principality of SCHWARZENFELS A World in Peace is Better Than a World in Pieces Leaders of the world, The Principality of Schwarzenfels thinks it necessary to inform the international community that we currently operate alongside our esteemed Kjalåran allies and friends. We are doing what is right and necessary to uphold law and order. Be aware that we operate inside Posteastan waters. I highly recommend reporting all military movement in and out of our sphere of control to us at least three days in advance. Take note that the waters have frequently been mined. At the moment we have the best insight which passages are navigable and which are not. With the currently tense situation it would be very dangerous not to announce your intended presence and wait for our approval. Regreatable accidents could happen that could lead to more problems in Posteastan and further instead of fewer. On Guard! Generalissimo and Guardian Guide of Schwarzenfels by the Grace of God Albrecht von Hammerstein Encryption: None

[Uan aa Boa]

PV The Martyrs of 19th September - international waters east of Pibtsy
The Boani frigate's crew watched the small International Defence Services fleet, at first electronically and later directly, with a mounting sense of disbelief. Its electromagnetic signature made it clear that it was armed to the teeth, far better equipped than had been anticipated. If it refused to stop there would have been little the Boani vessel and its attendants could do about it - and despite that it had an escort. The sleek, intimidating Kjalåran ships slipped like predators through the dark waters.

Tensions had been running high all day with no way of being certain what would happen once the troop ships were intercepted. Would the blockaded Kenmorians attack or would there be some kind of stand-off? The captain knew her crew would not hesitate to place themselves in harms way if ordered to do so, but still... this had begun as a scientific mission recording the spread of pollutants down the prevailing currents from the island of Candlewhisper Archive. No-one had expected it to end in violence.

The captain had seen the unencrypted threats of total war from the Kjalåran government. Why they were involved at all was a mystery, their support for the corporations seeming to defy logic. Doubtless the AIs at Analysis would be in overdrive seeking a rational pattern of behaviour that fitted the available facts, but perhaps this was in itself an error. It was perhaps a relief that with the Ten Thousand Flowers policy Uan aa Boa had set aside its nuclear weapons. How did one pursue mutually assured destruction with an adversary who made no sense?

It was hard though. Always the conspiracy, the Imperialists, the encirclement. It burned deep in the Boani psyche. Whatever was attempted, They stood in the way. The Others. At that moment she would not have hesitated if ordered to open fire, suicidal though it would most likely be. Her fists remained clenched as she watched the flotilla approach.

[Great Oehiton]

Yohan's plan had succeeded. The high court in Vik really ruled the decision to abandon thousands of Øhitonian citizens to their fate unconstitutional. Especially when it came to the children who technically were Øhitonian citizens the court ruled that it was the state's responsibility to protect its citizens and that the government instantly had to take measures to return their citizens to safety.

Official Government Announcement

Problems in Posteastan.

It has come to our attention that the tensions in Posteastan are rising again. It is not the time and place to condemn the actions of the Northern Alliance once more. A few decades ago Øhiton was in a worse position than Posteastan is now. Whatever the problem appears to be, war is not the answer you are looking for.

The Federal Republic of Great Øhiton has the greatest interest that this conflict is solved peacefully and without further bloodshed. Thousands of our citizens are currently fighting for one side in this conflict or for another. As painful as this is for our nation we are by law obliged to repatriate these citizens if that is their wish.

We are now in a position were we are no longer dependent on humanitarian aid but instead can send aid to Posteastan. We don't want to interfere with the domestic problems of Posteastan, we only want to distribute humanitarian help and we seek assistance to evacuate our citizens from a war zone.

Bjørn Peter Nielsson

[Rivienland]

Grand Ducal Palace, Novenville

“Madness. Absolute madness,” rumbled Grand Duke Joseph I. The Minster of Foreign Affairs stood in front of the aging monarch with little to say. There was no doubt that the Posteastan Crisis had become an international nightmare. There was Allanea’s military intervention, the Construction Enterprises scandal, the assassination attempt on President Valaska’s life, and, to top this off, the Pan-Forest Summit, which had come to few, if any, conclusions. At this moment, those arguing for Rivienland’s increased involvement in international affairs looked foolish, and overreaching. The Isolationists, the Grand Duke being one of them, took no time berating the entire disaster both publicly, and privately.

“I should have never listened to my son. To think that Rivienland ever had a stake, or a reason, to step into this mess is beyond me. For over a century my forefathers have ruled this nation within our borders, and never did we face issues like these. While we have faced famines, poverty, and other hardships, Rivienland has remained standing. But, now my son wishes to test the Providence in which Our Lord has bestowed upon our people for what? Some foreigners thousands of miles away?”

Count Moncheur et d’Orban cleared his throat, “If I may, Your Royal Highness? It is true that geographically the concerns of Posteastan do not concern us, but we cannot forever hide behind the La Roche-Beaulieu. Times have changed, and staying within our borders will only get our nation so far. Our allies, and enemies, have entered the modern times. Socialist countries, like Caracasus and Uan aa Boa, have clearly displayed the power they will in the modern era, and how soon before they unleash their technological marvels against us? The Crisis shows that other nations of the world do not refuse to engage in international affairs in fears of getting a little bruised.”

The Count tried to read the Grand Duke by the way he readjusted himself in the chair, or how he cleared his throat. While Joseph I was not the cleverest, he still held incredible control within Rivienland. The Constitution granted him sweeping powers over political matters, and, at this time, he also had popular support. Upholding tradition for several decades, the average Rivienlander, adverse to change, had come to see Joseph I as a pillar of the nation, and his further support of isolation only increased his popularity.

“We do not ‘hide behind the La Roche-Beaulieu’,” Joseph I said sternly, “but the rulers of Rivienland have always understood to leave the affairs of others alone. You and my son continue to say that we must intervene in Posteastan to combat the socialist threat, but have you not worsen tensions with our socialist neighbors? While I will not defend them, you cannot deny that they have left us alone. There is no Rivienlander who is afraid of getting a bit bruised in the name of what is right and virtuous, but to pick a fight just to put on a show, and to boaster? No, no. Rivienland has, and must continue to hold herself higher than this.” The stern Grand Duke slowly rose to from his chair appearing at eye level with the Foreign Minister. “You will no longer devote anymore resources to this disaster. You may continue your current efforts, but I will no longer grant my support for this unwise venture. Guns. Money. Aid. Nothing. Do I make myself clear?”

Giving a slight bow, the Count gave a resounding ‘I do’ to the Grand Duke before leaving the room. This would be a major setback, but not all had been lost.

[Cat-Herders United]

From: Cat-Herders United, Office of the President
To: all nations participating in anti-trafficking naval mission near Posteastan
Encryption: none

It is the intention of this government to continue to participate in the naval mission off the coast of Posteastan to hinder the human traffickers operating in said nation, and to continue to share information relevant to said mission with other participants thereof.

At the same time, the rash nature of the measures taken by Allanean forces in Posteastan are troubling. While we do not call into question the good intentions of the Allanean government, we recognize that being judge, jury, and executioner can lead to miscarriages of justice. Therefore we call upon the government of Allanea to observe a greater degree of transparency with the information that led them to conclude that those targeted were indeed involved in human trafficking, and to provide appropriate legal remedies to the relatives of any wrongfully targeted. On the other hand, congratulations for the ones that were assassinated correctly!

Sincerely,

President Catniss Mesteñero

---

From: Cat-Herders United, Office of the President
To: Kolvce Free State
Encryption: STRONG

As comrades in the struggle for realizing the self-determination of peoples, we would like to extend our assurances that we are doing everything we can to facilitate the flow of volunteers and equipment through the Volunteer Legion. I have been authorized by a secret resolution of the Assembly to grant NSD 10 million in Feline Florins to the Kolvce Free State for the purpose of purchasing weapons and munitions for defense, and an option to loan another 10 million interest-free.

Sincerely,

President Catniss Mesteñero

[Kenmoria]

The Boani ships didn’t move. No action was taken, though a growing sense of unease seemed to be materialising on their decks. Or maybe that was just a reflection of the emotions felt by the IDS crew and, presumably, the Kjalåran fleet. Attacking was always an option and would accomplish the aim of removing the blockade without losing much time. However, doing so could open up the wrath of the Uan aa Boa government upon Construction Enterprises, which was something to be avoided if possible. For all the callous affairs the company had been involved with, having a nation such as the Boani one at war with them would do nothing for public relations back home. Yet, it was also a strong desire for the IDS fleet to actually get to Pibtsy, in order to meet their brethren who had arrived at Roztechko by plane.

Complicating matters was the small size of the Boani fleet. People had expected an Allanean military blockade or a joint naval intervention obscuring Roztechko. Here, there were nothing more than a few idle curiosities sitting in the water. Guns were aimed. On th deck, messages were communicated to the Kjalåran navy to look as intimidating as possible. It may have seemed a strange command, but they seemed compliant enough from earlier communications. At the same time, large and heavy equipment of war was unloaded at the hull, pointed right forwards. Some of it wouldn’t even hit the Boani were it to be fired, but all that mattered was whether they thought it could.

“You have three minutes, one hundred and eighty seconds, to stand down and let us pass.” One of the crew members, a lieutenant, was shouting into a branded megaphone, “If you do not comply with this instruction, you will be engaged with by this IDS vessel, and the Kjalåran escort. Violence is a last resort, and one I suggest neither of us want to see used.” That was true. “I strongly encourage you to move aside now.”

[Great Nortend]

LEOZINA—Thatcher had taken a back seat row in the action in Leozina, and was content to spend his days in and out of the hôtel, inspecting progress in a shadowy and subtle way, and counselling East and his men in the finer points of diplomatic practice that would be essential in a successful action for the cause. The main military business he had left to the detachment from Lux Pulchrae, and their officers and men. The Posteastan Alms Society would instead focus mainly on their actual overt duties: serving the people of Leozina with the provision of alms and assistance.

Thatcher had been intrigued that the detachment from Lux Pulchrae, and especially their somewhat charismatic yet doggedly Catholic priest. A plan to evacuate effectively those citizens of Leozina willing to convert to Roman Catholicism. He was acutely aware of the religious tensions which could potentially boil over, but it seems the practical matters took priority over special loyalty to a denomination for the Leozinans. Despite this, East had reservations about actively supporting the Lux Pulchraens in their proselytisation activities.

“Do we support this evacuation plan, Thatcher? You know, this plan to convert and evacuate effectively?”
“No. It's a terribly risky proposition politically for you and me back home I would say. You know that we are Cardican, we must be Cardican to retain our office; the holy Church of Nortend, established church of the Realm and all that. Can we really support the action of conversion from what is effectively, our own denomination and, might I hadd, that of Sir Alexander, to the church our late Sovereign Lord himself rejected?”

---

From the tense days immediately after the publication of the unauthorised killings of communist forces in the North of Posteastan by what apparently were members of the Leozina Watch Militia or the forces from Leozina. Thatcher had expressed his concerns to Gentile and d'Umbra, and had been assured that the matter would be resolved. He suspected it was Rasvan, who had taken to styling himself as Sir Rasvan, without any apparent authority.

“Mr Luca. I must ask you to stop using the title of 'Sir'. You have not been knighted by any competent authority, but rather have only been addressed as 'Sir' by a lowly servant of a foreign Crown. It is unlawful for you to assume such honorific titles without authority. In time, owing to your certain brave conduct, you no doubt will be knighted by Sir Alexander himself, if we are successful. But you are not a knight yet; if anything, we two are both Esquires in title. I hope that you understand.”

[Caracasus]

T.U.S.K Destroyer Marioli Posteastan Waters

The joint IDS and Kjalåran fleet was still some way off for the TUSK destroyer. Commander Elect Kvechi had not given much thought to how or where she would die, and it genuinely surprised her to learn that it did not bother her as much as she thought it would have.

The Boani naval force had broadcast the message. Time was on no-one's side. They had escorted the first aid ships over to Posteastan. The rest of the Caracasusian fleet with its missile cruiser, destroyers, droneship and carrier was still some way out, though she patched them in as well. There might, might be something they could do. Again, she was surprised that she didn't really consider vengeance of her hypothetical death to be one of those things. Her world shrank to the bridge of her ship, her commune and her mission.

“Engines! Full speed. We're going straight for the Boani task force.”

The ship hummed and stuttered, shifting through the water. She looked nervously out at the holodisplays, her commune busy and focused on their tasks. The deck lit up like a disco with a thousand different pings and readings.

“Ready everything we have. Once we're in range, focus point defense on the Boani ships. The line stays. Group one, make sure the life rafts are ready. Group two prepare all weapons systems. Open communications. Make sure everyone can hear us.”

“Communications open.”

She breathed. Adrenaline coursed through her veins.

“IDS and Kjalåran ships. Stand down. Your position is known and there are warships from half a dozen nations in the area that will attack you if you open fire on Boani vessels. Come to a complete halt and disengage all weapons systems. This is the last warning you will receive.”

She felt as if her veins were on fire.

“The Kjalåran fleet? The fleet of the reaver queen? Queen Tove's bloody hand? What are you doing playing at security? Please tell me that the IDS has given you all nice black nylon vests with “Bouncer” written on the backs, right? I've read about you, hell I've played your side in wargames. Weren't you supposed to be fearsome raiders? What the hell are your captains doing babysitting?

I guess the saga of how your brave captains valiantly sailed really close to a few other ships for a bit might be impressive enough, but are you going to tell your children how at the same time at least six freighters loaded with whatever the hell goods people use to buy illegally mined ore and slaves from Posteastan slipped right past you? Don't believe me? Let's see... there's the Mary Jane that's uh... that's forteen miles out in international waters right now, making a course for Posteastan where it's probably going to pick up several tonnes of ore. There's the Red Herring Soup... though you'd need to move fast to catch that one. We've been keeping an eye on shipping in Posteastan for quite a while now. There's more of course. Still, you go on making sure that the big meanies don't stop those IDS ships. I'm sure you'll be well paid, like obedient little employees. Make sure you ask them for a pension plan, because you're probably not going to be dying in battle at this rate, are you?”

The comms operator disengaged. “Did they get that?”

“If they're awake they did.”

“Good. How many spy subs are within four kilometres of us?”

“Uh... Four.”

“Ping two of them. Have them move fast and engage evasive manoeuvrers.”

With any luck, anyone paying close attention would have seen the destroyer ping two fast moving underwater objects before it continued its course to the Boani line.

[Lux Pulchrae]

Leoniza Airport
It was early morning, maybe 5 o'clock. The birds have barely woken up and the sun's peak faintly rose above the clouds. The night shift was being put to sleep and the day shift took over, morning trumpets bellowed, morning routines were under way. Soon breakfast started, formations formed, marches led and chants hailed, the soldiers were half asleep with their captains too asleep to bark, d'Umbra himself had probably not woken up, or some would think.

Leozina Hotel
Gentile was putting the finishing touches on his latest reports. His room was his own little office with mountains of reports, intel, accounts, and other things. This was the job of a report staff, of which he should be bossing around, but the newly minted grand minister was not afforded that luxury. Actually, he could barely afford any luxury, this mission to Posteastan, some backwater gypsy country in a region he does not know, for a cause that was more the king's than his. But in the end, he should be the last to complain, he picked up this conflict on his radar and presented it to the king. However, he did not anticipate the birth of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the spot, nor his position and mission to Posteastan.

Once he finished the reports, he'd stamp them, scan them, and fax them to the intelligence office that would even look at the files. A knock on the door jolted Gentile, revealing itself to be Nevicca, the only 'staff' given to him, his assistant during his deputy-ministry in the Ministry of Defense.

"The escort is here." Nevicca informed him.

"Ok, I'll be out." nodding, he collected the appropriate papers and placed them in a briefcase, put on his coat and hat, and headed outside. D'Umbra waited by the vehicle: a typical government Cadillac-esque car, fully furnished with the little flags on the corners of hood and trunk. The 'police' or rather Militia escort was ready. Getting in, he nodded to d'Umbra, his broad physique, stern-faced look, military uniform was rather off-putting for most conversations, but for now he'd be one of his best colleagues. They didn't know each other much, outside of occasional bump-ins for MoD meetings and gatherings.

D'Umbra himself wasn't too pleased with the situation either, not only the rank but sometimes the classism of Lux Pulchrae seeped into his head. He was not only a Lieutenant Colonel in the 2nd Montagna Divisione of the Grand Lux Army, he was also the Count of Umbra. His full name being Fredo Antoni di Scipii d(a)'Umbra, the runors behind it being that his family comes all the way from Scipio Africanus, whether or not that is to be proven is debatable, but nonetheless the rumors have been around a while and accepted. It was rare but there was the occasional family that claimed its lineage to Rome, which would grant stares of respect and jealousy in the nobility of Lux Pulchrae, another would be the Massimo family. Because of all this, d'Umbra thought this mission was beneath him, beneath his men. Training some gypsies in a conflict that did not matter to him, with a measly 500 men and little to no glory to be brought home. If nothing, at least Lux Pulchrae's influence could spread a little farther. Already were the militias adopting the Roman salute and many other mannerisms.

The ride to the airport was quiet and awkward as usual. They were cleared, saluted and driven to a passenger jet, a team of four armed men were by the stairs into the plane, a welcomed sight was Father Giacomo.

Gentile got out and greeted the father "Father? Come to see me off?"

"Just to give you a blessing before you leave, while I am here." The priest quickly blessed Gentile for a safe and prosperous trip to the Villi island. "Oh, miofiglio" he quickly recalled Gentile, leaning to his ear "Don't forget to bring up this whole asylum thing. There's tensions regarding these enslaved men and women, a great deal of good work would be done to convince these people to relieve these slaves over to our care."

"Staff running low in the rectory Father?" Gentile chuckled as he was met with playful but hard pats to the back, he then turned to Nevicca, shaking his colleague's hand "Think you can handle this?"

The assistant smiled and nodded "Eh, if by handle you mean 'do nothing while nothing equally happens' then I can handle it. See you soon boss."

"Oh, I forgot to notify Thatcher of my temporary departure. If you would be so kind?" Nevicca nodded in understanding. Gentile finally turned to d'Umbra, saluting him "Colonel, will you miss me these couple of days?"

The Colonel smirked at the grand minister who was maybe 10-15 years his inferior, "It would be hard to miss you while I am on the same plane."

"What do you mean? I thought you were staying here."

"I was, but Amaglione wanted me to accompany you. I've left Giornada in charge, I trust him enough to handle my absence, but your man is allowed some reining in case he does get carried away. It is why I have this briefcase with me as well, and some luggage on the plane too. I need to present to this godawful socialist council as well. Think of it as two sides of a coin; you are the 'magesterium', while I am the 'militaris'."

"I was never notified."

"Last minute call, but this shouldn't get in the way of your plans, right?"

"Well, part of the plan was to get away from you, so it interferes with about three-quarters of my plan." the grand minister gave a cheesy, smug grin.

"You smartass, get on the plane! I want to be over with this damn conference as soon as possible."

A final wave goodbye and they boarded, along with the four-man security from before. The plane was like the car ride, except hours longer. A real dread.

In-flight
"So, is your luggage just more uniforms or is there something wearable in there?"

"How about a gun to the face Gentile? How is that for fashion?"

"Uniform it is. Wait did you actually bring a gun?"

"Of course," he moved his arm, exposing the holster that was strapped across his torso and rested on his left-side chest, armed with a custom revolver "You expect me to go to near hostile territory unarmed?"

"Calm down Colonel, no need to bring caboismo all the way over here."

"This whole country is one big cabosimo Grand Minister. Except, instead of drunk Hispanics shooting themselves in the foot, it's some gypsies fighting for who gets to be on top of the hill. And for some reason, everyone wants to get involved and my government wants to send my men here to die in vain." With that, d'Umbra sat back and went to sleep. The least he could do was rest on the flight.

Villi Island
The plane had finally touched down and parked. The Lux Pulchraean party found the nearest commendable hotel closest to the conference. They both occupied separate room with their guards occupying nearby rooms.

They made it in time for the conference, d'Umbra had been held up by security for his revolver, which he presented to them, empty but carrying a couple speed reloaders on his person. They sat down and observed, speaking among themselves, of the countries and people there and of what they would say.

Eventually, Gentile spoke up "Good-day everyone! Apologies for any interruption, but before we say anything we'd like to start off on a couple of points to make things clear here. First, let me introduce myself, I am Giani Gentile, Grand Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Kingdom of Lux Pulchrae. With me here is my colleague: Lieutenant Colonel Fredo d'Umbra, head of the Lux Pulchraean military detachment in Posteastan." the Colonel nodded and waved at his introduction, standing and sitting back down. "I know that this conference is a somewhat ideologically biased conference, but hopefully civility can push that aside. I, we, are mainly here to address the slanderous accusations of 'genocide'," he emphasized with air quotes, " as well as to affirm the position of Lux Pulchrae within Posteastan." Gentile looked around the room, making sure those who had ears could listen:

"What a sight to behold, for I stand in a room full of 'anti-imperialist' imperials." he smiled before he went on "First, on the accusations of this, 'genocide', by a certain nation: Uan aa Boa. They have stated the following regarding Lux Pulchrae and I quote 'It is clear that the Royalist faction in Leoniza,' meaning primarily us in this context, along with the militias 'bears heavy responsibility for some of the worst atrocities presently being carried out. We denounce Lux Pulchrae as fascists and hatespeakers.' One, these 'atrocities' cite the DEFENSIVE actions taken by OUR soldiers patrolling the outer cities of the province. Were we to let our men die while enemies fired upon them? And even then, the number of dead is highly exaggerated. What was in large quantity however, was the amount of captured citizens adhering to these communist ideology, which we have safely and respectfully interned at our base in the airport. This might no doubt cause ill-will on us already, but I will continue. Another point in that excerpt was the denouncing of us as 'fascists and hatespeakers', which is, as we all know, a devolution into schoolyard name calling. For one, calling us Fascists would only be stating fact, as the Kingdom leans heavily on the ideas of Fascist Italy, so no skin off my back as they say. Similarly as I would call many of you communists. In the context used by the Boani, this was meant to incite negative emotions, as the adjective 'Fascist' has become today what 'Communist' was in the American sixties. And as hatespeakers, that is a mere lie; we hate ideas, not people."

Taking a sip of water, Gentile continued "In addition, the aforementioned Boani have erroneously assumed the relation between Lux Pulchrae and Great Nortend was a possible mistake for the latter, claiming us to be 'untrustworthy parties'. In fact, the two of us nations, in this sandlot at least, have had very good relations. And finally, to state the Kingdom's position in all this: Lux Pulchrae does not recognize the Telinburg government under Valaska and are to recognize Sir Alexander, the pretender to the Posteastani throne, and will see to it that he is seated on that throne. Have I missed anything ladies and gentlemen? Or anything you would like me to readdress?"

[Keilersmoor]

Recipient Region of Forest REPUBLIC OF KEILERSMOOR Topic: Writing an essay against Antisemitism? Fine. But I prefer baseball bats. Esteemed friends and colleagues, The recent developments have changed the situation in Posteastan and our approach towards them. We instantly withdraw all support for the Posteasan Alms Society. As a fascist group the organization will be outlawed in Keilersmoor. Throughout the history of mankind, it has never made any sense to reason with fascists. Every debate only leads to more death. We recognize the input given by Caracasus that all fractions have fascists or dictatorial tendencies but the Royalist fraction is now the only one to openly admit to be the anti-thesis to humanity. If the fascists reject the Valaska government it is a matter of honor to extend to the anti-fascists in Telinburg a helping hand. A legitimate anti-fascist government fighting against a royalists-nazi collation with immense outside help doomed to fail because other nominally anti-fascist powers block the supply lines for the government should remind you all of the bloody past. It does not have to happen again. We try to support a policy of non-intervention but non-intervention is not possible when the fascists are suppling weapons and troops to the anti-government forces. Before anything we urge you to let the anti-fascist government of Valaska rearm itself! You are not going to do anything in the near future to stop the fascists. Weakening the government now in face of the rising fascist tide is a mistake that has been made in the past. If no one is fighting the Nazis they will succeed. It is better to have Valaska drive them back and later deal with him than to accept a fascist takeover. We are well aware that the crimes of Valaska must be persecuted. However, things have changed now. Keilersmoor will participate in military action in Posteastan if there is a united approach by Forest but we will under no circumstances participate in the collaboration with fascists. We will not negotiate with fascists or sit in conferences with fascists. There will never be a normalization of fascism when Keilersmoor is around. Negotiations with fascists always fail. Contracts with fascists are worthless. Talks with fascists are a waste of time. We do not support the weakening of Valaska in this situation. If Forest does not come up with a quick solution we will most likely send arms to Valaska and help him air-lift the troops over the Forest blockade. If the open and undisguised annunciation of a fascist takeover is not good enough to put your differences aside and join forces with all those who shoot fascists dead Forest is not the place for us. The situation could not be more urgent. The royalists have announced that they are nazis. If you do not do everything you can to crush them you are at least accomplices. If that means supporting Valaska so be it. If it means we have to do it alone we will do it alone. Forest has always been a bastion of civilization and sanity. Many of you have supported the fight against imaginary slavery that has given ground to the fascists. Use your influence on these forces to convince them to crush the royalist movement. Rutger Thorbecke Foreign Minister

Recipient Great Nortend REPUBLIC OF KEILERSMOOR Topic: Racists and Deathcamps Esteemed friends and colleagues, I would never have thought that the people of Great Nortend are big fans of racism and death camps. There is not much I have to say. I am sorry that we have been tricked by you. I hope that you will do what is best and instantly denounce Lux Pulchrae and cut all diplomatic ties with them. If you wish so we will gladly assist you in airlifting all your men and material out of Posteastan. It was our believe that the King of Posteastan could work as a person who could integrate more than one fraction. Seeing him and you working hand in hand with Nazis has forever damaged his reputation and will prevent us from ever supporting his cause again. We kindly ask you to withdraw all political and material support for the nazi-royalist coalition and leave Posteastan. Rutger Thorbecke Foreign Minister

[Caracasus]

The plane had finally touched down and parked. The Lux Pulchraean party found the nearest commendable hotel closest to the conference. They both occupied separate room with their guards occupying nearby rooms.

They made it in time for the conference, d'Umbra had been held up by security for his revolver, which he presented to them, empty but carrying a couple speed reloaders on his person. They sat down and observed, speaking among themselves, of the countries and people there and of what they would say.

Eventually, Gentile spoke up "Good-day everyone! Apologies for any interruption, but before we say anything we'd like to start off on a couple of points to make things clear here. First, let me introduce myself, I am Giani Gentile, Grand Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Kingdom of Lux Pulchrae. With me here is my colleague: Lieutenant Colonel Fredo d'Umbra, head of the Lux Pulchraean military detachment in Posteastan." the Colonel nodded and waved at his introduction, standing and sitting back down. "I know that this conference is a somewhat ideologically biased conference, but hopefully civility can push that aside. I, we, are mainly here to address the slanderous accusations of 'genocide'," he emphasized with air quotes, " as well as to affirm the position of Lux Pulchrae within Posteastan." Gentile looked around the room, making sure those who had ears could listen:

"What a sight to behold, for I stand in a room full of 'anti-imperialist' imperials." he smiled before he went on "First, on the accusations of this, 'genocide', by a certain nation: Uan aa Boa. They have stated the following regarding Lux Pulchrae and I quote 'It is clear that the Royalist faction in Leoniza,' meaning primarily us in this context, along with the militias 'bears heavy responsibility for some of the worst atrocities presently being carried out. We denounce Lux Pulchrae as fascists and hatespeakers.' One, these 'atrocities' cite the DEFENSIVE actions taken by OUR soldiers patrolling the outer cities of the province. Were we to let our men die while enemies fired upon them? And even then, the number of dead is highly exaggerated. What was in large quantity however, was the amount of captured citizens adhering to these communist ideology, which we have safely and respectfully interned at our base in the airport. This might no doubt cause ill-will on us already, but I will continue. Another point in that excerpt was the denouncing of us as 'fascists and hatespeakers', which is, as we all know, a devolution into schoolyard name calling. For one, calling us Fascists would only be stating fact, as the Kingdom leans heavily on the ideas of Fascist Italy, so no skin off my back as they say. Similarly as I would call many of you communists. In the context used by the Boani, this was meant to incite negative emotions, as the adjective 'Fascist' has become today what 'Communist' was in the American sixties. And as hatespeakers, that is a mere lie; we hate ideas, not people."

Taking a sip of water, Gentile continued "In addition, the aforementioned Boani have erroneously assumed the relation between Lux Pulchrae and Great Nortend was a possible mistake for the latter, claiming us to be 'untrustworthy parties'. In fact, the two of us nations, in this sandlot at least, have had very good relations. And finally, to state the Kingdom's position in all this: Lux Pulchrae does not recognize the Telinburg government under Valaska and are to recognize Sir Alexander, the pretender to the Posteastani throne, and will see to it that he is seated on that throne. Have I missed anything ladies and gentlemen? Or anything you would like me to readdress?"

Villi Island

---

Speaker Marrik waited patiently until the man had finished before taking the stand and addressing the conference.

"Sift out the chaff from what Mr Gentile has added to our conversation and what are we left with? Primarily we are left with an admission that his nation has played a role in the unlawful arrest of thousands - potentially tens of thousands of Posteastan civilians under the supposed charge of "being communists." In spite of his rhetoric and pleas for civility, Mr Gentile has no qualms about taking part in mass murders and the creation of internment camps - further destabilizing an already damaged nation.

Apparently the death tolls have been exaggerated, and only a few have been shot without any cause given. Very well. When our fleet arrives, we will take great pains to make sure our jets only destroy the engines of any Lux Pulchraean planes should they continue their illegal support for an increasingly dangerous fascist faction within the country.

As for the claims of imperialism. Frankly these can be dismissed out of hand. We have no soldiers, no tanks in Posteastan and we do not plan to. The nation of Lux Pulchraean on the other hand is hard at work establishing a puppet state of Posteastan, no doubt to exploit what natural resources it can, or to utilize it as a strategic base.

We remember our history. It was this island, in fact, that was home to an internment camp before the revolution. We know what internment camps are, our revolutionary army has liberated more than enough to know that. To my mind, the nation of Lux Pulchraean has admitted its role in the construction of internment camps as well as collective punishment, the imprisonment of civilians without any reason given.

Mr Gentile asks for civility. We are being very civil indeed. If we were to treat Mr Gentile with the utter disdain for human life that his government shows the people of Posteastan, he'd currently be sitting in a freezing cold wooden shack behind barbed wire fencing. In a couple of weeks we'd likely have him take a shovel, dig his own grave and shoot him in the head.

We will fully support the Keilersmoorian delegation's additions to the statement regarding the conflict. The continuing supply of weapons and soldiers to Posteasten by foreign powers cannot stand. We'd ask that the Keilersmoorian delegation let us know at the earliest opportunity what forces they plan to contribute to the effort."

---

Twelve hours earlier

The first light of dawn hit as Blaumann found Marrik. The man seemed quite unlike himself, flustered and confused. His usual measured pace gone from his voice. Marrik listened intently.

"I... I am afraid I don't know what to say. I've not exactly got as clear a handle on your internal politics as you do, but I do not exactly see how this misunderstanding would lead to immediate recall unless someone has it in for you."

He sighed.

"If I can write a letter, or supporting statement, please do contact me. Otherwise I sincerely hope that you resolve this as quickly as possible. And if not, the revolution could always use someone as experienced in international legislation as you are. Do keep that in mind, friend."

[Keilersmoor]

Blaumann scoffed. "My old man. He was PSD. Did five years for 'membership'. Came out of jail went straight to Iesus to fight fascists gun in hand. Not a good starting point for a career in politics." He shook his head. "Thorbecke is Virtue. He does what he can to prevent Keilersmoor from shifting to the left. Not that any outsider can tell the difference between Liberals and Virtue anymore. He is in deep shit now. He supplied dual-use goods to nazi-terrorists. People will not take it lightly. The alms society is a criminal organization and he gave them millions to build death-camps. Right now he has to do whatever he can to stop people from thinking about it. I would not be surprised if he declares war on something. " He laughs a dry, humorless laugh. "Probably good taste." He turns back as he boards his machine and says "My father use to say: 'people in Caracasus think with their hearts, people in Keilersmoor think with their wallets. Maybe we should follow the Boani example and think with our brains.' Or it might have been my mother who said it and attributed it to my father. I will contact you when I am back home. "

Recipient Caracasus KEILERSMOOR COURT OF HUMAN RIGHTS Topic: Arrest Warrant To whom it may concern, It has come to our attention that the international fugitive and war criminal d'Umbra, Fredo is currently residing in Caracasus. He is wanted in Keilersmoor for crimes against peace, murder in 12 cases, accessory to murder in 500 cases, crimes against humanity, tax evasion, fraud, illicit possession of firearms, human trafficking and torture. We request your assistance in his arrest and apply for his extradition to Keilersmoor. Thank you very much Claudia Galindo Chief Justice