The East Sothron Crisis [IC | MT | CWS Only]

[Zanzatar]

The East Sothron Crisis
A Commonwealth Society Roleplay

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The Commonwealth Society | Regional Map | Escalation |

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Tensions in Sothron have reached a fever pitch following The The Jingoistic States of Vyiya's induction to the Krepost Pact and The Kingdom of Xerxa becoming a protectorate of The Sovereign Union of Bulraton. Both actions have earned the ire of the bullish Queendom of Zanzatar, whose Queen, Zora II, asserted that Xerxa and Vyiya would not be safe. This angered Vyiya's ally, The United Kingdoms of New Hull, who began mobilization of its forces. Now, it looks like the nations will be plunged into an all-out war. Who will emerge victorious? Who will be caught in the crossfire? Will the continent of Sothron ever be the same following this bloody conflict and clash of ideals?

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How to join

This RP is for members of The Commonwealth Society only. Registered Commonwealth Member States are free to post on this IC thread.

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OPs

Xerxa / Zanzatar - OP
United Kingdoms of New Hull - Co-OP

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Rules

1. The OP/Co-OP’s word is final.
2. No godmodding – in line with the CWS’s godmodding policy (see the Discord).
3. No metagaming – OOC knowledge does not transfer to your IC characters/nations.
4. No inadequate IC posts (I.E. No one-liners, grammar and spelling to be at a decent standard).
5. All CWS Roleplay Regulations must be followed in this RP. These can be found on our Discord.

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[Zanzatar]

Zora II stood in front of a giant, wall-sized mirror in Castle Zanzatar, her piercing, crimson eyes trained on her reflection as she laced a combat boot. When the fighting started, as per Zanzatarian tradition, she'd be on the front lines where fighting was fiercest. She didn't give much thought about death. While Zanzatarian Queens liked to think of themselves as invincible whether in the castle or on the battlefield, the death of Zola VI on the battlefield was a stark reminder that, even though the blood of Zola I coursed through their veins and her blessings washed over their souls, they were, at least for a time, mortal. As such, she certainly knew her demise was a possibility, but she didn't dwell on it. A voice at the back of her mind, so quiet it was nearly silent, even welcomed it. If she fell, at least running this country would be someone else's problem.

Zora II only took her eyes off her reflection for a moment as a man wearing white makeup, a green wig, and a gaudy, colorul outfit somersaulted into the ballroom. A split second they were on the cackling man, the next they were back on her head as she began putting her snow-white hair into a fancy bun.

He leapt up onto one of the hanging chandeliers. "IIIIIM GONNA SWIIIING, ON THE CHANDALIIIIER, ON THE CHANDALI-HIEEEER!" He sung as an offkey shout before hopping off the fixture and landing next to the Queen. He quickly rose to his feet, arms raised above his head. "What would ya give the landing, bosslady?"

"A ten out of ten," Zora II said dryly to her jester, her closest confidant. "If I didn't know any better, I'd draft you."

"Well good thing you do know better, Queenie, 'cause who else in the world could bring ya your news with the doctor-prescribed dose of reality and comedy?" He pulled out a sheet of paper. "International responses, fresh from the presses."

"What are those Hullian lambs bleating about now?"

"Responses. Plural, Queenie. Those Vyiyan monks have thrown their hat in the ring, as well,"

Zora II went silent as her jaw tightened ever-so-slightly. The shift in her expression was subtle that only a longtime friend like her jester could catch it. "Read the responses. Now."

The jester did as he was commanded. As he did so, he put on a wig and spoke in a shrill voice to mockingly imitate Alice Pugh and took off his wig to reveal his bald head and spoke in a humorously deep tone to speak as Phūnhā Śākhtā. It was enough to make Zora II crack the briefest of grins. One the jester was done, she saw a military advisor in the doorway across the ballroom. "Come in, Haggerty. What are our chances looking like?"

The man, Admiral Haggerty, gave a salute. "Our defenses are primed and ready, ma'am. Defensive stations are manned across the Eastern border, ships are ready to engage in combat, anti-air and anti-ship weaponry is ready to go. We've got cruise missiles on standy if a Hullian so much as enters to buy a used car, ma'am. Our orbital weapons and deployment platforms are ready to go. We've assessed New Hull's own armaments, and while we cannot say for certainty what the extent of their forces are, simple strategy dictates that they won't have an easy time staging an invasion from across the continent. We're armed to the teeth and I'm confident we can neutralize any invasion or bombardment attempt until they've whittled their resources down. Then, we can launch a counterattack and bring them to their knees," he reported.

Zora II swallowed. "But?"

"But the calculus of our victory changes dramatically if Vyiya joins the conflict. I remain confident that we can fend both nations off. We lose a bit more of our human resources, but keeping them at bay isn't the issue. The issue is the question of what happens after. Depleting two nations resources is much harder. Our own resources will be depleted as well. Staging an invasion of one nation, even Vyiya will be a tall order and that's assuming New Hull backs down."

Zora II pursed her lips. He may not have said it, as doing so was grounds for execution, but it was clear he thought winning the war under such conditions was nigh-impossible. Stopping the war seemed well within their capabilities, but there was no honor in a stalemate.

"How do you wish to proceed, your highness?" Haggerty asked.

Zora II closed her eyes and curled her hand into a fist. Goddammit. She finally had it - the love of Zanzatar. They had hated her mother for her identity and the way she preferred diplomacy over war. That hatred transferred to her once she took the throne upon Zora I's disappearance in 2013. They saw her as an interloper, the daughter of an 'abomination' that took the throne. And she had spent years chasing their approval as substitution for the love of the mother who left. And now, with her stoking their bloodlust, she almost had it.

But just like that, it could slip away.

The incident, even if it didn't spark into all-out war, doubtlessly would increase her approval.

Yet it wouldn't be enough to secure her legacy nor legitimacy.

Yet she couldn't use her yearning of approval as justification to launch her Queendom into a war it couldn't win.

But maybe they didn't have to win. They just had to not lose. What was a million people in exchange for everything she ever wanted, for everything her mother could never have - her seat on the throne to finally be comfortable? And for their part, her citizens would have an enemy, someone to hate and blame for the misfortunes they were about to experience. The hatred would remain in their hearts, ready to be channeled whenever she or her successor was ready to finish the job.

Her jester and Haggerty both felt a chill crawl down their spine as a wide, Cheshire grin spread across their majesty's face.

"Ready the radio equipment," she practically purred.

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Good evening, Alice Pugh, Edward II. You might think your little request for 'compromise' paints you as noble. But I can see through you. You're a craven swine; scared of the wrath you have wrought and trying desperately to shove it back in the bottle. I remain steadfast - if your ships don't sail upon our shores, we'll have no reason to attack. It's a simple solution, but of course, you won't take it, because you want to appear strong while remaining weak and afraid. You never do anything head on, you slink and strike from the shadows, because you will never have the spirit of a bull, you skittish horse.

I will not retract so much as a letter. Why would we maintain relations with Xerxa and Vyiyia when those nations don't exist? They're Zanzatar. Everything is Zanzatar. This world is ours. You just don't realize it yet. But you will. Soon.

[Xerxa]

The sounds of crickets filled the air as dawn began to break on the northeast Zanzatarian town of Gollav. The townsfolk were already awake and getting ready for the day. That's exactly what the squadron of men wearing New Hullian military uniforms wanted.

"Remember," said the leader as he readied his automatic rifle, "No Zuul."

Days of tensions and threats between The Queendom of Zanzatar and The United Kingdoms of New Hull have finally erupted into violence as the Zanzatarian town of Gollay turned into a bloodbath this morning. At around 7:00 AM ESST, gunshots and screams were heard from the Southeast Xerxan border. Several Zanzatarian refugees have made it across the border. Shaken, they claimed that Gollay was attacked by none other than New Hull. The assailants were neutralized by Zanzatarian forces two hours later, but by that time, the town had been razed. Enraged at the slaughter, Zora II has authorized the Zanzatarian military to attack the New Hullian ships that sailed into the Bay of Blood this morning. Several pundits and leaders have already decried the situation as a false flag operation, but fighting is already underway. The situation is developing rapidly so stay tuned to Xerxa News Network for updates.

[Vyiya]

It's a frosty October night in Āryu, more so felt at the centre of the monastery city where its namesake, a monastery, lies. There, the Headmasters of the various monasteries convened to discuss the conflict to the east. Men of different ages sat in a half-circle around Phūnhā Śākhtā who listened to the multiple leaders sharing their thoughts.

The shaven head of a headmaster stood up, and the council paid him their silent attention.

Krebḥa Ceṭṭēn; "While we weren't directly threatened, sublime High Headmaster, most of the council is in agreement that Zanzatar can not remain an open question any longer."

Many in the room nod but otherwise remain silent. Krebḥa Ceṭṭēn holds out his hands to gesture to emphasize his words.

"They are a threat to our way of life and a volatile element on Sothron. Numerous times, they have also proven that they do not tolerate us and deem us as a stepping stone in their schemes to dominate our continent. As ridiculous as that notion may be, we can't leave it in the hands of fate how many Vyiyans lose their lives in border skirmishes or other attacks from Zanzatar."

"Thus, I would like to put a direct intervention into Zanzatar up to vote."

Phūnhā Śākhtā stood up and addressed the room. "If all honourable Headmasters that deem an invasion of Zanzatar necessary would please stand up."

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Phūnhā Śākhtā sat outside in the garden, the humidity of the night holding him in place like a tight grip and the carefully cut grass beneath him brushing against him.

As a High Headmaster, his decisions weren't made solely by himself; he had to listen to the monasteries and guide them together in harmony. There was no absolute power here, as much as he would like to demand from all the Headmasters to consider peace.

Violence begets violence, after all.

If this was a sane world, maybe Zanzatar and Vyiya could settle their grievances by talking alone.

He looked toward the night sky and watched the clouds cover the moon, shrouding him in darkness.

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Narthan Acu peeked out from the open back of his APC to look with big eyes at the tank driving behind them. After all his time in the military, he was still amazed to be there. For generations, his family worked the land in the remote jungles to the south, and he was the first to leave their family stead in generations.

He didn't care who he was fighting; the officers told him who was supposed to be fighting, and with the money his family receives with his soldier salary, he was happy to do just that.

He closed the luke of the APC and checked his rifle with a grin.

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Vyiya builds up a military presence along the Zanzatarian border.

[Kherkov]

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Command Tent

Kherkovian Section
Vyiyan Wildnerness
Vyiya

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It had been a tumultuous week for Sothron. Queen Zola’s statements had certainly riled an entire continent - which was to be expected considering she conducted international diplomacy like a hormonal teenager, von Tormarck reasoned. She was an amusing character in an altogether amusing situation, as the Krepost wargames were seemingly the catalyst for this entire chain of events. Considering the wargames’ true purpose, this war had been deemed a convenient accident by the Imperial Government.

As the threats turned into real action, as Gratberg had predicted, Kherkovian forces found themselves at the centre of an opportunity. Zanzatar had once been considered a potential ally by the Kaiser’s government, but the unpredictability and immaturity of the Zanzatarian state had led the Kherkovians to seek alliance with Vyiya to establish a Krepost presence in Sothron. The recent events had proven this a wise course of action.

A war in East Sothron of another state’s making presented a convenient opportunity to rid Vyiya - and thus Krepost - of a rogue state on its borders, without looking like the aggressor. However, as much as von Tormarck enjoyed news of attacks on LFN nations, he knew that a New Hullian victory in Zanzatar may lead to the establishment of a LFN-aligned democracy on Vyiya’s border, which was arguably worse than a rogue state. It remained to be seen whether the LFN would entirely get involved. Kherkov, and its allies, had to be prepared to act if necessary – after New Hull took the opening salvos from Zanzatar, of course.

##SOTKON##
Aufträge 25-10 | Gen.ob. G. A. v Tormarck | c/c Krepost Command

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5. Panzerbrigade, 1. & 2. PzGren to remain at the Vyiyan border, operational command to Gen. maj. L. H. Bergmann
SRMS Wilhelm der Große and task force to remain in port and conduct regular air patrol supporting border forces
All other forces to reserve in The Blazing Aura
All forces to remain on high alert
This is not a drill [w] this is not a drill
Gott mit uns

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--##ÜBERTRAGUNG-BEENDEN##--

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Kherkovian Imperial Communiqué
Public Statement

Let it be reaffirmed that the People’s Empire of Kherkov, and all Krepost nations, take their alliance commitments with the utmost gravity.

Any attack on the sovereignty of a Krepost Pact Member or Observer State will be met with the full force of the mightiest militaries the world has ever known.

Krepost Prevails.

Signed,
Generalmajor Lord Korbinian Möller, Kherkovian Permanent Representative to the Krepost Pact.

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Posted with the approval of Vyiya.

[United Kingdoms of New Hull]

New Hullian Times, 26th of October 2023

A few days ago, Zanzatar claimed that our troops conducted a military operation within its borders. Ever since there has been no clear clarification about the ramifications of this conduct, even if it was clearly a Zanzatarian construct to drag us into a bloody conflict. Furthermore, there are scattered reports that a naval warship of the royal navy has been struck. Ever since the citizens of this country have been waiting in anticipation for the Prime minister's response, glued in their telivision sets. The King has also remained deafeningly silent over the matter, probably trying to wrap his head around what had just occured, or waiting for the prime minister to inform him of her decision.

Today, the prime minister fianlly cleared the air and gave the people a much needed clarification after she gave a speech about the on-going conflict in east Sothron on national television. Before it, it was announced to us that the New Hullian Royal Navy has set sail to the rogue and savage nation of Zanzatar. The world held its breath, as PM Alice Pugh had not yet announced a formal declaration of war. The UKH has given Her Majesty Queen Zora II an ultimatum, to retract her war mongering rhetoric. Considering there was no response, many citizens had believed the war had started. The prime minister today decided, quite awkwardly to announce it formally today, a few days late than the given time frame the Queen of Zanzatar was given to respond. The PM's speech reads:

"Good evening. I am sure the events of the last week have been most stressful to you all. the esclating crisis in East Sothron and the position his majesty's government has taken within the matter has been carefully calibrated to account for a plethora of different outcomes and results of a possible conflict with Zanzatar. It is with deep regret that I announce to you that this is no longer peacetime. We, The United Kingdoms of New Hull are at war with the barbaric Zanzatarians. The whole 1st Armada, a considerable amount of the 2nd armada of the Royal navy has set sail towards Zanzatar. The economy shall no longer cater to the requirements of the civilian populance, but towards military equipment. Furthermore, a deployment of some 2 million soldiers is sacrosanct for the defence of our nation. As such I am announcing the conscription of all volunteers and all able-bodied men and women with previous military training. Conscripts will be limited to desk duty unless manpower reaches unbearably low amounts. Let me make it clear that we seek not the mindless wastage of our men and women in suicidal operations such as offensives towards the mainland. The Royal navy shall blockade Zanzatarian ports and the Royal airforce shall bombard Zanzatarian army personnel indiscriminately. The Royal army shall join the Vyiyians and other friendly forces in the area and once ready, conduct an invasion at the heart of Zanzatar. We are 55+ million Great New Hullians, and we shall not back down until total victory is announced from the same podium I am standing today. God save the King and god save us all!"

The speech was greeted with cheers and applause as the people shouted in total unanimity: "God save the King!".\
Later in the day, there was a military parade as hundreds of thousands lined up to join the army.The flag of New Hull flew proudly and firmly in coldcliff palace.
War has formally begun. His Majesty the King released his own statement later in the day just before he took the royal salute during the military parade. It reads:

"After the Prime minister announced her speech today, I felt, as I am sure you all felt, a strong reinvigoration of my vigour towards my duty to this country. These are difficult and tumultuous times for many of you, as it is to me. In our long and far-reaching history we have never before touched such potential for destruction. But let us not forget that this is a proud nation, and we shall rise to all our tasks heroically as we have always done so many times prior. We shall defeat the nation of Zanzatar. We shall fight in many bloody battles, we shall fight, but we will come victorious with the cross and sword as we have always done. God save the United Kingdoms of New Hull. May god bless all of you."

- Signed Edward RII

The mobilisation of our armed forces is expected to be completed rather soon, as there are reports all over the country that conscription is being met with wholesale acceptance. The great Hullians are standing up to the task, and victory will arrive fast-paced.

[The Blazing Aura]

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North Fleet Administration Headquarters
Shore’s Rise
The March of Shorland

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“What are the latest numbers coming in?” Admiral Hugo Bolsom asked his aides as he strode into the conference room before taking the seat at the head of the table.

“At the moment Sir we have only had official confirmation from the Kherkovians, although some of the other members of the Pact have begun to make noises that suggest they too shall be docking with us.”

“Very well.” Hugo nodded, “and what of Task Force Indomitable? They were the last of the North Fleet meant to leave for the Sothron Channel and into the Isterian Sea, yes?”

“Yes Sir,” A different aide replied. “All reports from both Cape Brimstone and the Gate show that they have successfully resupplied and left for the Channel.”

“So all goes according to plan then. What forces do we have in Cape Brimstone at the moment?”

“Are we expecting trouble Sir?” came a slightly nervous voice from the end of the conference table, Hugo was not able to pinpoint exactly who had asked, but for the moment it did not matter.

“No.” He replied. “But I want all available Marines and Naval Security Forces at parade rest when the Kherkovians come in. It’ll give them something to look at. Ideally I’d wanted Task Force Indomitable to show off our naval might as well but the High Admiral overruled it so we’ll just have to make do. Any questions?”

At the silence he nodded. “You all know what you have to do. Let’s make sure we don’t screw anything up.”

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CS Shorland
Somewhere in the Isterian Sea

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“Admiral, Task Force Indomitable has passed the Gate and is on schedule to rendezvous with the rest of the fleet.”

“Very good Lieutenant. Dismissed.” Fleet Admiral Edmund Chaswick waited until the Lieutenant had shut his office door before casually getting up from his desk and putting his jacket and hat on, High Admiral Melchett might preach that an officer should always be fully dressed and ready, but Edmund believed in being comfortable over being flashy especially when not on the bridge. After all, Melchett might have got his position because of family connections and promises made to the Emperor but Edmund had fought his way up to the position of Fleet Admiral, and none could dispute his effectiveness with the Northern Fleet.

Heading to the bridge, he was interrupted as the same Lieutenant rushed up to him again, handing him a piece of paper. “Sir, urgent message from Fleet HQ.”

Opening up the piece of paper Edmund merely raised an eyebrow at the message within, Zanzatar had struck against the New Hullians Fleet, a surprise but not an unwelcome one. “Thank you for the message Lieutenant.”

Taking the dismissal for what it was, the Lieutenant disappeared down the ship's corridors, returning to his original post Edmund assumed, not that it made much difference to him, and he had already put the fellow out of his mind by the time he arrived on the bridge. “Ladies and Gentlemen,” he called out even before the general call of “Admiral on the bridge” could be made by the officer on duty. “Task Force Indomitable is well on its way, this period of holding in position is almost at an end. High Admiral Melchett wants us to prevent any threat to the Confederacy from the rogue state of Zanzatar and we shall show them the naval superiority of Shorland and the Confederacy!” Edmund was well aware that the comms officer had ‘accidentally’ broadcast his impromptu speech to the fleet as it was, gathered in this pocket of the Isterian Sea. Even if the officer should not have done that, Edmund knew the impact of a well delivered speech, and resolved to look up and learn the name of his comms officer, he had joined the Edara only a few months prior after the last comms officer on this watch had been promoted out of the role and Edmund made sure it was always known that he favored those who showed initiative.

Still, Edmund thought as he looked out of the bridge over the rest of the fleet, they’d both have to survive this conflict first.

[Zanzatar]

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"Break, bark; break, shout," called Kraken Kirk, a wiry, gray-haired man, into a headset from the control tower of Kosmaut, relaying the standard radio greeting of one Zanzatarian agent to the next. Kosmaut, formerly known as "Houston," an embarrasingly-long-lived holdover from when it was a part of the accursed Libertine, was the crown jewel of Zanzatarian R&D. It was here where the Wrong brothers, at the behest of Zola VI developed the first Zanzatarian airplane, known then as an "aeroship." It was also here where Zola VII decided to place her hopes for the stars, christening the town "Kosmaut" in the process. Kraken's father, Hydra, hadn't let his Queen down and Kraken didn't intend to let her great-granddaughter down, either.

The rest of the bridge bunnies waited with bated breath for the response. There was an audible sigh about the room once the response came and the group went back to furiously typing on their computers, armies of green text marching across fields of black screens.

"Break, roar; break, scream," they responded. "This is Sergeant Skull Daggardy of Cosmo Station Oblivion. Who do I have the pleasure of speaking to?"

"Kraken Kirk of Kosmaut command." The man peered from his ovular glasses which gave him the appearance of an owl to look at the space shuttle in the distance. "We've got a present for you, sergeant. Oblivion's about to become a bit more crowded though we hope you enjoy the company. You will take lead of a group of the most elite pilots our nation has to offer. You are our premiere line of attack, don't let us down. In the evet of the unfortunate, command will transfer over to Bravo Tango Epsilon," he said. The line should be secure and the personnel vetted, but just in case, he used the base's callsign instead of its plain name. "Never forgive..."

"...never forget," finished Skull Daggerdy. "Half those Hullian fucks won't know what hit em and the other half will spend the days they have left praying to forget," Skull hissed.

"Zolaspeed, sergeant," Kraken said, saluting.

"Shuttle DESTINY launching in t-minus 60 minutes Shall we invoke Zola to bless the rocket?" Asked one of the flight controllers.
"Yes, why not?" said Kraken. He looked up at the rocket. "May Zola lead us to victory."

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The rocket blasting off into the heavens was far from the first mobilization effort undertaken by the Queendom this past week. Ever since New Hull's ships had retreated after being fired at with the coast guard's missiles, gearing up the populace for war had been the iron-fisted nation's top and only priority. Mobilization was speedy, as, for all intents in purposes, Zanzatar has been waiting for this moment for over 80 years. 3 million personnel had been scrambled across the nation in the days since the strike - a mix of 1.3 million members of the active military, 600000 members of the highly militarized police, and 1.1 million member of the army reserves. Many more were in the process of being being prepped to fill in the ranks if their comrades should fall. The mobilization made the making the barren land abuzz with life. Most of military had been deployed in the form of a navy, with a significant chunk of that deployed as marines. A smaller, but significant number had been deployed as naval members while a small number, such as those aboard DESTINY served as the airforce, among the most elite positions in the Zanzatarian military.

Three of the nation's aircraft carriers had sailed away from the coast, due South of Mother, giving them ample time to take flight and attack if needed.

Much of the deployed navy remained in the water surrounding Fort Blood. The navy also maintained a heavy presence Zwei. The last, smaller portion of the navy patrolled the waters between Mother and Zoxel.

In terms of land forces, personnel had been deployed from Fort Slaughter to establish a presence in Southeast Zanzatar, ready to defend from the possibility of Vyiya pushing in from the East or support Port Blood if the enemy pushed inward from there. The North admittedly had sparser defenses, a few of them could mobilize and join up with the reserve stationed in Kosmaut, which would further be backed up by active soldiers who'd have to travel all the way down from Fort Yrr.

To the Southeast, Zwei, Zizanati, Fein, and Zoxel pooled personnel to establish a presence if the enemy pushed in from there.
Zanzatar was mostly prepared for their enemies to attack from either the East, West, or South. They felt the domicile Xerxa's presence was finally a blessing, though, if Hull or Xerxa had designs to fly in from the North, Zanzatar certainly had its ways of finding out.

As most of the populace scrambled wherever the army told them to, the elites, their special treatment not ending even now, left in droves to their vacation homes either in Mother or in Kottsuki.

The Zanzatarians were prepared to fight for their lives, they were prepared to fight to the death. They were ready for war.

Posted with permission of United Kingdoms of New Hull and Kottsuki

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Zora II's voice spoke from the public speaker towers dotted across Zanzatar. Unlike her previous addresses, this was meant for Zanzatarian ears only, not that it was of a notably different character than her previous speeches. "My children, it's been days since you so valiantly drove away the New Hullian interlopers from our shores after their duplicitous attack. For this, I thank you. Ego bruised, New Hull has been amassing its army to attack with a stronger force. A lesser nation would balk at the display, get on their knees like a harlot, and whore away their dignity in exchange for safety. But we are no lesser nation, we are the Nation to end all Nations, the throne from which a Brave New World shall gratefully bow!" She paused to allow for cheers. "We do not balk at New Hull's toys! We have prepared for their ill-conceived invasion, moving with the vigor of a bull with the smell of blood burning its nostrils! Nothing they throw at us can deter us! We will fight back these Godless heathens, bathing in their blood and when we are done, we shall march upon their false nation and bring the light of Zola to them! The time is now to alight your blood with passion! Prepare to do battle at a moment's notice and once you engage in combat on the glorious battlefield, fight until your dying gasp, for you will wake welcomed in the halls of Heaven by Zola! Never forgive!"

"Never forget!" The country shouted practically in unison.

"Never forgive!"

"Never forget!"

"Il-fazut!" She shouted in Zuul.

"Il-fazi!" They replied, dreary lives energized, finally having the answer to the question that had been on many of their lives since birth - what was this really all for?

---

Soldiers saluted their Queen as she walked through the halls of Fort Omen near the Zanzatar-Taunge border. She bit into a piece of Xerxa's famed chocolate, the gooey, sweet caramel sending chills down her spine - only good thing those Woolies were good for. She would be heading to the battlefield, but first, she had business to attend to.

She had a Zanzatarian diplomat prepare a video call for her - it was ready as when she walked in the door. She looked up at the man whose visage took up most of the wall-sized screen. She stood at attention with a slight grin. "Sultan, it is good to see you. I pray you have not been waiting long."

Posted with permission of Demesetelis

[Vyiya]

30. October 2023

01:00

Thannū Hills, Vyiyan-Zanzatarian border

The air in our command tent hung heavy with the anticipation of what lay ahead. Just like our forefathers in distant battles, we prepared to embark on a mission that would reshape the destiny of our nation. I adjusted my uniform to make sure the Flower emblem was prominently displayed, as a silent tribute to our heritage and the spirit of our Ancestors.

Inside this dimly lit, compact shelter, the presence of our commanding officers and advisors filled every corner, each bearing a countenance that mirrored their sense of duty and their apprehension. We, the soldiers of Vyiya, stood at the brink of a significant endeavor, a mission that would test our mettle and our allegiance to the Land of our Ancestors.

I tightened the belt of my uniform, ensuring it was neatly fastened as per tradition. The weight of responsibility bore down on us all; we were about to engage in a strategy that had been carefully orchestrated. The New Hullians had already launched their move, and it was now our duty to execute the second phase of this well-coordinated assault, catching the Zanzatarians off guard.

One of my subordinates, Lieutenant Gīthēn, saluted me crisply. Her demeanor, like that of the others, was a fusion of unwavering resolve and quiet unease. "Sir, the orders have been received," she reported, her voice unwavering.

I nodded and accepted the sealed envelope from her. The crack of the wax seal was a somber precursor to the words within. The message was concise, bearing the weight of an entire nation's hopes. We were to advance, initiate the offensive, and capture Konstance, a city that had long symbolized Zanzatar's resistance. Its fall would strike a blow to their spirit.

With a deep breath, I understood our mission. I turned to Captain Sārdūn, my loyal adjutant, who was already transmitting the orders to our radio operators. The chain of command was set into motion, and I watched as dedicated soldiers around me executed their duties. They weren't just soldiers; they were the defenders of Vyiya, prepared to fulfill their mission with precision and unwavering dedication.

The orders cascaded from officer to officer, moving like a well-choreographed dance. Our forces were in motion, tanks, artillery, and infantry prepared to advance. The unity and coordination among our troops was a testament to our rigorous training. We were more than soldiers; we were the guardians of Vyiya, and we were resolute in executing our mission.

As the tent brimmed with activity, and my subordinates carried out their tasks, I contemplated the gravity of the situation. This was not just another battle; it was a pivotal moment for Vyiya. Our nation, which had remained secluded for generations, was stepping onto the world stage, and the world would take notice.

With our orders transmitted and our troops on the move, there was no turning back. The die was cast, and the destiny of Vyiya rested in our hands. The second phase of our mission was commencing, a punch that would resound through the annals of history.



----------------------------

As our tanks advance toward the distant horizon, I, Sergeant Kīvān, am filled with complex emotions. The sight of Konstance, our target on this mission, is both a reminder of our nation's long-standing grievances and an opportunity to assert Vyiya's strength.

Inside this iron behemoth, the air is thick with a sense of purpose. My crew operates with diligence, knowing the gravity of our mission. We are here to prove the might and superiority of Vyiya, to rectify the irritations Zanzatar has caused us over the years.

This mission isn't merely about following orders. It is a pledge of loyalty to our homeland, a commitment to our values, and a demonstration of our belief in Vyiya's cultural and moral ascendancy. We see ourselves as guardians of our way of life and as executors of the nation's will.

In the distance, the thuds of artillery serve as a constant reminder that we are part of a formidable military force. We stand united in our vision of a Vyiya that stands unchallenged, and the Zanzatarians, to us, are mere obstacles to our rightful dominance.

With each rumbling step of our tank, we draw closer to the border, closer to the fate of Konstance, and closer to the realization of our ambition. We march forward with determination, in a world where our supremacy will be unshaken, and those who oppose us will know their place.

[Zanzatar]

"Vyiyan activity spotted along the border. The enemy is fast approaching with tanks, infantry, and artillery," announced Shirvin Blue to his walkie-talkie as the young man lay prone on the top of Konstance's water tower - one of the tallest structures of the medium-sized town of Konstance along with the radio tower and the silo. Light rain pattered over his body.

"Excellent work, thousands of blessings to your family," said Zazzuck Kreed, his commanding officer from the ground. "I'll have a platoon, planes, and a tank to back us up. In the meantime, we'll have to halt their advance. Remember, we've spent a week preparing for this moment."

Shirvin's palms were sweaty and if he weren't laying down, his knees would have been too weak to support his weight. Even so, she shook his head and corrected his commanding officer, his blood coursing with enough determination to fight back the fear. "No, we've been preparing for this moment for all our lives, all our parent's lives. We've trained for the day that the Libertines would strike and now, they're finally doing it. I'll fight with everything I have for my homeland."

Kreed smiled. "Spoken like a true soldier. I remember when you were just a runt who could barely run a lap. Now, you'll be firing one of the first shots at an enemy in decades, defending your hometown. You make Zola proud, boy."


All Shirvin could do was smile. Was that what this feeling was? Pride? He couldn't say he felt it much before but was glad he finally found it.

Men and women across the country feelings similar to Shirvin's. It went beyond bloodlust - for the first in their lives, many young, poor Zanzatarians felt they had a purpose. It was one thing to train for a war your superiors swore had RSVP'd, it was another thing to prepare for a war that was practically banging on your doorstep. The suffering, the hunger, the policing all seemed to have a purpose. In days, the glowering daughter of a pariah was now thhe commander leading them into a glorious battle, one that might lead to prosperity and happiness down the line. They'd show the world they weren't going to sit by and be run over.

---

Vyiya attacking Zanzatar from the East, of course, was not a surprise. While a lot of consideration had been placed into defending the coast, even if Vyiya's response to Zola II's speech hadn't been as unambiguously aggressive as New Hull's, the Queen knew there was a high probability they'd strike and organized her military accordingly.

The question, thus, hadn't been "should we erect a defense against Vyiya" but "where should we erect the defense." Konstance was closer to the border than Courage, but it was deemed better to establish a presence in the South rather than creating a more sparse defense in Central Zanzatar.

As a result, the town would have to hold out for a bit before reinforcements arrived including bombers from Kosmaut.
In some ways it made more sense for the the names of Zanzatar's premiere eastern frontiers to be switched. Courage was the metropolitan, defended beacon that served as a constant reminder of Zanzatar's presence and ambitions to expand beyond their borders while Konstance, as an unassuming farming town, was a testament to the populace's courage in the face of the mighty Vyiya.

As news of the Vyiyan's advance spread across town, the local priest prayed for victory in the chapel.

---

There were few sounds from the town as the Vyiyan advanced in the misty morning rain.

The most straight forward way into the town was to take the eastern bridge over the river. The bridge was sufficiently wide for the force to cross, though a bridge could still only be so wide. The route would take the company directly downtown and to the town square.

A more open path into the town was to travel a roundabout routh to enter the town from the South. Seemingly the only resistance would be farmers - their fields were empty save for dung and clumps of cut grass.

[Kestrelia]

Rewanż

Vengeance.

Eighty years ago Viyayan forces marched on the old Kesterlian capital of Varsozheng and attempted to exterminate the Kesterlian people. They failed and today Kesterlia and her children still survive despite the evils of the world. But the wounds were still fresh.

Even eighty years after the Day of Tears, Mieczysław Roszak was not allowed to enter the motherland as a Kesterlian. He was not allowed to pay his respects to the ancestral burial grounds of his father for they had been desecrated to create room for Viyayan colonizers. He could not pray in their millennia-old sites of worship for they had been demolished in an attempt to erase the Kesterlian faith and crush their spirits. He could not walk the same streets his father had walked when he was a child, for the old capital Varsozheng had been so petulantly demolished by Vyiya simply because Kesterlia had the audacity to resist their impending genocide.

Millions died and the world just watched in apathy. Of all the greatest crimes that Vyiya could have committed against Kesterlia, it was the fact that they now walked the world guiltless while so many of his people never got the chance to walk. Vyiya never paid for their crimes.

But now they would.

They weren't the first Kesterlian Resistance Group to operate in the ruins of their homeland but the others before them had been largely disorganized and lacked any official government support due to the burgeoning Republic struggling to feed its own people in the first days, let alone fund fighters half a worlds away. But not this time. For a decade they had laid dormant, smuggling in loyal members and deprogramming brainwashed ethnic Kesterlians whose fathers had managed to stay in the homeland. While they still lacked official government support, they had their sympathizers in the Armed Forces who shared their same dream of one day returning to the motherland. Vital guns, remittances, and intelligence support had allowed them to gather numbers and power in secret. They had waited so long for an opportunity.

And with Viyaya once more showing their dung-shoving Barbarian ways once more by waging a clear war of aggression, that opportunity now came. Though Zanzatar had been one of the nations to turn their cheek during the Day of Tears, it didn't matter anymore. An enemy of my enemy was my friend, Roszak thought as he handed the encrypted letter over to his runner who he knew would be able to bring it to the right eyes.

"Salutations!

The Vyiyan satanic scum once more shows the fact they cannot be trusted. They are the devil-spawn and all who carry their putrid blood in their veins deserve the very deepest pits of hell and the highest scorn of a hateful God upon them. It seems we possess a common enemy. You may not be aware of who we are but entrust upon us the fact that we are capable and will give our lives if it means that this land can be sanctified through the extermination of this verminous race. Through cooperation with your agents, we will be able to ensure maximum damage and retribution. If you wish to further liaison with us, I will be aware of it and make the necessary preparations.

-Vengeance"

In all honesty, there was a reason why they lacked proper Kesterlian support from home. The Vyiyans deserved all the pain they received but not in such a low-down way. The Kesterlians were better and more honorable than the Vyiyan bastards than to stoop to their level. One day they will return to their homeland, but not this way and not now when they weren't strong enough.

[The Blue Sakura]

030500ANOV23/KURE
OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE OF THE IMPERIAL BLUE SAKURAN NAVAL FORCES COMMAND
SUBJECT: DEFENSE MOBILISATION IN SOTHRON

Today at 0200 hours Kure time, the 2nd Blue Sakuran Carrier Group, composed of the BSN Akagi (CV-08), BSN Takao (CG-17), BSN Hayate (DDG-68), BSN Isokaze (DDG-19), BSN Sumire (DDG-57) and BSN Shimakaze (DDG-98), arrived at port in The Blazing Aura.
The Strike Force, led by Commander Yūzuki Mitsukai, will remain on high alert and are ready to intervene should conflict in Vyiya occur. Accompanying the military vessels were the transport ships BSMS Osumi (LC-03) and BSMS Minami (LC-04).
"The Blue Sakuran Empire stands with our Krepost allies and will support their efforts to preserve peace and order.", said Admiral Ryouta Miyagi, acting Defense Minister, in a press conference in the early hours of the morning.

---

031200ANOV23
REMINDER
To all soldiers involved in Operation SOUTHERN WIND.
All information regarding ground forces is CLASSIFIED. Orders must remain TOP SECRET unless specified by your commanding officer.
All companies are to remain on high alert until the situation deescalates.
- Lt.Col. KIYOSHI

[Zanzatar]

There had been a flurry of movement among Zanzatarian agents within Vyiya following the runner's message reaching relevant eyes. It didn't take long for a meeting to be arranged between the leaders of Zanzatar and Rewanż, which was admittedly something of a small miracle, given that the Rewanż members and Zanzatarian sleeper agents were so nestled within Vyiyan society that it was hard to figure out anyone's identities.

Zola II planned on leaving for the field as soon as she finished her chat with Demesetelis, but practically as soon as she was done, a phone was thrusted towards her. She was annoyed at the delay, but couldn't pass up the opportunity for murder and mayhem.

She sat in the chair at the front of one of Fort Omen's war rooms. "Záchééh," she greeted in Zuul. "Who do I have the pleasure of speaking to?"

Posted with permission of Kestrelia

[Kestrelia]

She sat in the chair at the front of one of Fort Omen's war rooms. "Záchééh," she greeted in Zuul. "Who do I have the pleasure of speaking to?"

"Cześć,' he replied in Kesterlian, the language that the scum had tried so hard yet failed to wipe out, "You are speaking to those that have the common cause as you. My name is Mieczysław and I continue to carry the same name as my father, despite Viyayan efforts otherwise. I am glad that you heeded my message. Co-operation between the both of us would only maximize Viyayan suffering, even if it is only a fraction of what we suffered during the Day of Tears."

[Zanzatar]

"Strategic, co-operation," Zora II amended as she leaned forward. "I no doubt understand the intoxicating joy that can be gained from inflicting so-called "terrorism," but bloodlust courses through Vyiya's veins. At times like these, such acts, if we are not careful, may serve to simply excite the dogs. Not to mention, while Vyiya remains your sole target, I must deal with not only them, but their newfound whore, New Hull. For this to be advantageous, Vyiya needs to not simply suffer, but stagger . So tell me, what exactly do you have in mind?"

[Kestrelia]

"Strategic, co-operation," Zora II amended as she leaned forward. "I no doubt understand the intoxicating joy that can be gained from inflicting so-called "terrorism," but bloodlust courses through Vyiya's veins. At times like these, such acts, if we are not careful, may serve to simply excite the dogs. Not to mention, while Vyiya remains your sole target, I must deal with not only them, but their newfound whore, New Hull. For this to be advantageous, Vyiya needs to not simply suffer, but stagger . So tell me, what exactly do you have in mind?"

"Do not call what I do terrorism. This is merely the opening stages of Liberation." he couldn't help but snarl slightly before controlling himself. "I have several cells in their major cities. Well armed and well trained. The majority are veterans of New Kesterlia's Bush Wars. We possess vehicles and fertilizer-based explosives. I've had reconnaissance done on police stations and major public areas. An armed uprising of vengeance in all their cities can occur at the same time with the goal of causing as many casualties and chaos as possible. Police stations and ill-guarded weapons depots can be seized. This would no doubt stretch the resources of the Viyayans all over the countries It can be prolonged with my men going to the ground and taking hostages. This will send a message to Viyaya that we will never forgive them and show exiled Kesterlians all over the globe that we have struck a great blow to Satan. Tomorrow, there will be no shortage of volunteers, no shortage of marytrs willing to take back the true homeland."

[Zanzatar]

Zora II click her tongue. "I say it not as a pejorative. As the saying goes, one man's terrorist is another's freedom fighter, as such, distinguishing the two is largely a fruitless endeavor. What better way to advertise your liberation than by instilling fear. When my grandmother-" she quickly cut herself off. It had been over 20 years, but her late grandmother's terrorist attack on the Sothron Trade Center on November 9, 2001 was still technically classified. She cleared her throat. "I digress. Is it your opinion that it is more advantageous to attack them, while they are attacking us, than to wait for them to be on the defensive after we launch a counter-attack?"

[United Kingdoms of New Hull]

Coldcliff Palace, 18th of November

King Edward II sits at his desk on a rather chilly New Hullian afternoon. Outside, the palace gardens are every possible hue of orange and brown. Autumn well and truly is here, and winter is fast approaching. Surrounding him, the cozy, wooden floors, the marble fireplace and the great old bookshelves, of the finest oak, holding on them the greatest and most cherised parts of New Hullian histroy. The great successes of which every Hullian is proud of. The crowning of the first King and the appointment of the first Prime minister, serving the King at first; the people now.

Deafening the silent blow of the wind, the crackling of the fire, was the wireless radio that broadcasted the PM's as it does every Tuesday and Saturday. The king is also due to meet the Prime minister after this. But so far, Alice Pugh has received the most strong criticism ever in her tenure. Over the last 6 years she has been the model that every politician of this sacred land must aspire to. Maintaining a stiff upper lip, leading the country through its biggest ever economic growth, and being impartial agreeable but thoroughly firm in her policies. However today she finds herself on the brink of being pushed into the political wilderness.

Today, the minister for the interior, Sir Jenkins Hamsworth, will for the first time make a public speech in parliament as to the reasons pertaining to his resignation from the government.

[speaker of the house]:
"Now I must remind the house that a statement of justification for one's resignation must be heard in total silence, with complete reverence and dignity. I give the floor to the right honourable gentleman Sir Jenkins Hamsworth."

[Sir Jenkins]: "Thank you Mr. speaker. Mr speaker sir, I am dumbfounded by the fact that I haven't spoken from these backbenches in 6 years ever since the election of the prime minister. In those years, the government had led the country through economic, cultural and social prosperity. The world had the utmost respect for our country, the values we represent and the system of government we hold so highly. However, what the past month has truly shown me is that the prime minister is incapable of leading us in times of war. Not to mention she is the only reason alone why we are entangled in this conflict. We have seen our reputation abroad shattered, our economy heading towards its biggest recession and for the first time ever, we are beginning to see inflation on the rise in this country. Over the past week I have myself, as I'd encourage all members of the house of commons to reevaluate their trust in our prime minister and consider their response. I am afraid the right honourable lady must resign, and make way for someone more competent to take the reins and lead us through these tumultuous times. Thank you."

Queen Elise, the king's mother is pacing fast towards the King's study. She passes through the picture gallery. The grand and glamorous Kings and Queen of the past painted in their grandest crowns and robes. All of the canvases are surrounded with gold. The former sovereign faces firm, authoritative.

King Edward turned the radio off. There is a knock on the door

[King Edward]: Yes?

[Servant 1]: Her majesty Queen Elise is here to see you.

[King Edward]: Oh whatever for?

The servant didn't find time to reply. Queen Elise storms in. The servant, utterly terrified leaves and closes the door behind him.

[Queen Elise]: You must make that wretched witch resign! The country is basically begging for it. Re-assert our royal authority. Use your prerogative and arrest the prime minister. Now. Now whilst we have the time to act!

[King Edward]: Are you out of your mind, mother? She is the elected leader of my government. I cannot tell her to resign if she doesn't herself. It is not my duty to appoint prime ministers and to rule. Besides, we don't know if everyone wants her out. I could awaken a constitutional crisis and then the people would take up arms not just against the government but against the monarchy. Do you really want to run the risk of that?

[Queen Elise]: Oh, such rubbish! Just stick the knife in her. She is an imbecile without any idea on how to rule.

[King Edward]: Fine. I will try my best.

[Queen Elise]: Spare me.

Queen Elise leaves the room mumbling curses.

The time is 4 sharp. The king awaits in the audience room for the prime minister. Her driver is having trouble moving through the crowds of protesters outside Coldcliff palace. The tension is now palpable. Some signs read 'Resign!' others said 'Down with the King'

Lady Alice Pugh paces through the palace. A guard is leading her to the audience chamber.

[Guard 1]: The prime minister your majesty.

[PM] Your majesty.

She bows low

[King]: Prime minister.

[PM]: I do apologise for arriving at such a late hour. The crowds can't make it too easy.

[King]: Of course. I was wondering if we could quickly talk about Sir Jenkins speech. Do you perhaps consider him to be right in some way?

[PM]: Absolutely not. We will not just not concede, but we shall double down on our policies. We must be firm. A task force of some 250,000 men is on its way to protect Vyivia. And we plan on reinforcing that task force with an additional 250,000.

[King]: I was only wondering whether it is the right thing to do, considering the unrest in several major cities, including the capital. One is elected to serve the people, not antagonise them. This war has drained our coffers and damaged our reputation. Perhaps the time has come to rally people's support instead of ruling them by decree?

[PM]: Well let me categorically, emphatically and unreservedly say no. And no-one's wish for my resignation shall be fullfilled, atleast not today. This government will not back down for some jumped up, emotional cowards who wish not to be drafted.

[King]: Cowards? Did you call my subjects cowards? Prime minister, Your party is against you, the whole country is against you. If you were to hold a general election today, you would not win. Perhaps the time has come to resign.

[PM]: Very well, I shall draft my resignation letter. But not today. Tomorrow.

[King]: As you wish Prime minister.

The crowds outside coldcliff palace are dispersed with brute force and batons so the prime minister can pass through. The security around the palace has been trippled, with the arrival of a tank standing by